The National Ski Patrol (NSP) doesn’t grow patrollers, it builds them. Each patroller learns his or her skills from a certified NSP instructor. These hardworking instructors are the backbone of all NSP education programs; without them, there would be no patrollers. The skills learned in the NSP Instructor Development Program (ID) focus on principles of adult education that are applicable to any field. The ID course—a series of presentations, activities and discussion opportunities—is available through a one-day class or via an e-course. Once completed, instructor candidates move on to the Mentoring Program, an individually planned program administered under guidance of a discipline-specific advisor, which preps them for certification as an NSP instructor. The NSP is always seeking talented instructors to deliver its OEC, OET, MTR, Avalanche and ID programs. To learn more about instructor development opportunities, contact your division ID supervisor or region coordinator.

Instructor Development Course

A student MUST contact the Instructor of Record to find out the dates, times and requirements for the in-person part of the ID course. The on-line course is one module toward completion of the Instructor Development Course. The student MUST present the Certificate of Completion to the Instructor Of Record. Face to face course registration numbers are NOT required to register for the online learning course. Students may take the on-line learning course at anytime.

The ID course covers the various areas of instruction and how instructors can apply them to create a positive learning experience for their students, and helps build a strong foundation of educational knowledge for use when planning and delivering lessons. The general information covered in Instructor Development is applicable to all potential NSP instructors, regardless of instructional specialty.

Instructor Mentoring Program

The mentoring program focuses on the practical application of teaching and assessment skills for a specific discipline. Potential instructors are teamed with experienced instructors for individual training and guidance.

Contact Region Instructor Development Program Advisor Pat Boccardi or more information.