East End Middle School was recently recognized by Solution Tree for its sustained success in raising student achievement. EEM’s successful implementation of the Professional Learning Communities at Work ® process was a major contributing factor in the improved achievement of its students, according to Dr. Heather Williams, principal at EEM.
PLCs are schools and districts in which educators recognize the key to improved learning for students is on-going, job-embedded learning for the adults who serve those students. The three big ideas of a PLC call upon educators to:
1. Focus on learning.
2. Build a collaborative culture.
3. Create a results orientation.
“I am so proud that EEM has been announced as a Model PLC School,” Dr. Williams said. “The staff at East End Middle have worked so hard to provide every student equal access to support when they need it. Our staff has developed a collaborative culture focused on student learning, and as a result, we have seen an increase in student achievement. This process has required a collective effort, and I am so proud of our school community at EEM. They deserve this recognition!”
Schools are recognized based on strict criteria, including demonstration of a commitment to PLC concepts, implementation of these concepts for at least three years, and clear evidence of improved student learning over that period. Once measurable results can be seen, the school must explain its practices, structures, and culture and submit its application for consideration by the PLC Review Committee.
“We’re very proud of East End Middle School for implementing the PLC process successfully and earning national recognition for their efforts,” said Dr. Karla Neathery, superintendent of the Sheridan School District. “Following the PLC process is going to play a significant role in the rise of student achievement at EEM and throughout our district. By continuing to work collaboratively and focus on learning, rather than teaching, I believe our district’s students are going to benefit and achieve outstanding results.”
According to the Champions of PLC at Work®, educators in the schools and districts selected for this recognition have shown “a sustained commitment to helping all of their students achieve at high levels. They have been willing to alter the structure and culture of the organization to reflect their commitment. We applaud them and congratulate them for achieving this very significant milestone on the never-ending PLC journey.”
Recognized model PLC schools are listed on allthingsplc.info, where they share implementation strategies, structures, and performance with other educators interested in improving their schools. Tools for team collaboration, articles and research about PLCs, blog posts, and other related resources are also available on the site. The site was developed and is maintained by Solution Tree, a leading provider of educational strategies and tools that improve staff and student performance. For more than 20 years, Solution Tree resources have helped K–12 teachers and administrators create schools where all children succeed.