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Best Practices in a PLC Solution Proposal for Oak Tree Middle School Created By: Nicole Meredith
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
Lifeandtimesofmsellis.blogspot.com
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
Eaccessibility2020.com
1st RecommendationBuild positive professional
relationships with all staff.
2nd Recommendation
Job Embedded Time for
Collaboration
Guide teachers through this
process
Anotherway.org
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.
