Best Practices in a PLC

Solution Proposal for Oak Tree Middle School

Created By: Nicole Meredith

Overview of Problem

Staff Rapport has declined

Teachers are struggling to

keep up

Increase in discipline referrals

Educationland.com

Professional Learning CommunitiesWhat the research shows…“strong improvement in math, reading,

and writing scores” (Thessin & Starr, 2011)

“Failure rates dropped by 50%”

(Hinnemann, 2007)

“SAT scores increased 103%”

(Hinneman, 2007)Oklahoma State

University

CultureWhen school cultures are cold

and negative, a total reformation needs to occur within the school before teachers are willing to modify their instruction (Edgerson & Kritsonis, 2006).

Building Trust

Between Administration and

Teachers

Among Colleagues

With the Community

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Administration’s Role

Establishing trust builds relationships among colleagues.

EvidenceTeachers who actively engage in

a PLC raise student scores. Changing culture does take time

and does not happen over night. It’s an ongoing, learning

experience..

Trial by ErrorStamforn Public Schools, CT San Clemente High School, CA

Both learned the following:Teachers need to be data drivenTeachers need guidance Job Embedded time

Step by step outline of

Proposal

Three Recommendations

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1st RecommendationBuild positive professional

relationships with all staff.

2nd Recommendation

Job Embedded Time for

Collaboration

Guide teachers through this

process

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3rd RecommendationDistribute Leadership

Responsibilities

Will this work?Building professional

relationshipsJob-embedded collaboration time

◦Guidance for teachers during these times

Central focus is on student outcomes

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References: DuFour, R. (2011). Work together but only if you want to. Kappan

Magazine. 92(5). 57-61. DuFour, R., DuFour, R., & Eaker, R., (2005). On Common Ground: The

Power of Professional Learning Communities. Bloomington, IN: Solution Tree Press.

Edgerson, D. & Kritsonis, W., (2006). Analysis of the influence of principal-Teacher relationships on student academic achievement: A national focus. Retrieved from http://www.allthingsplc.info/pdf/articles/analysisoftheinfluenceofprincipal.pdf

Hinnmann, C. (2007). Developing a substantive professional learning community. National Forum of Education Administration and Supervision Journal. 24(1).

Siguroardottir, A. (2010). Professional learning community in relation to school effectiveness. Scandinavian Journal of Educational Research. 54(5), 395-412. Retrieved from Research Education Complete database.

Thessin, R. & Starr, J., (2011). Supporting the growth of effective professional learning communities. Kappan Magazine, 92(6), 48-54. Retrieved from Research Education Complete database.