Westside Elementary has been acknowledged as a Model Professional Learning Community (PLC) at Work by Solution Tree. The school’s successful application of the PLC at Work process, led by Principal Nikki Harcus, significantly contributed to the enhancement of student achievement. Westside is among approximately 600 schools and districts in the United States and Canada that received this recognition.
Professional Learning Communities are educational institutions where educators emphasize ongoing, “job-embedded learning for the adults who serve those students.” The core principles of a PLC involve focusing on learning, fostering a collaborative culture, and maintaining a results-oriented approach.
Dr. Stephanie Leonard, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching, Learning, and Equity, praised Westside’s principal: “Thank you, Nikki, to you and your staff for all you do to model excellence in PLCs.”
Schools earn recognition based on stringent criteria such as demonstrating commitment to PLC concepts over at least three years and showing clear evidence of improved student learning during that time. Schools must provide measurable results and describe their practices and culture when applying for consideration by the PLC Review Committee.
According to Champions of PLC at Work, educators in recognized schools have demonstrated “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.”
On June 5th, Westside Elementary hosted an End-of-Year celebration for teachers and staff. During this event, Principal Harcus presented student achievement data and announced the school’s receipt of the PLC recognition award along with a flag symbolizing collaboration growth.
Recognized model PLC schools are featured on AllThingsPLC.info where they share strategies with other educators aiming to improve their institutions. The site offers tools for team collaboration alongside articles and research about PLCs.
