Strengthening Washington's Public Schools

How is professional development changing?

Professional development of the 21st Century is changing in dramatic ways in response to an increasing body of research supporting collaborative, process-oriented learning focused on student achievement and improved instructional practice. As a result, many schools and districts are creating Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) across the nation, but few are putting together the necessary conditions required to implement and sustain authentic PLCs.

PLCs Done Right

Professional learning communities - when done right - can be some of the best and most rewarding professional development educators can experience.

It is empowering, directly connected to the classroom, meaningful, produces results, and is research-based.

PLCs Done Wrong

Unfortunately, when done wrong, it merely adds to workload, creates additional committee work, and provides no rewards or benefits to either educators or students.

Why are WEA and other PLCWashington.org Partners Involved?

• Requests for classroom connected, relevant professional development.
• The most recent research is compelling.
• PLCs inherently values the knowledge and expertise of professional educators.
• Many districts and schools are trying to develop PLCs without identifying and addressing the necessary conditions required to effectively implement this professional development strategy.
• Collaboration done right helps to lighten the workload for everyone.
• Districts and schools are looking for ways to "find" time for collaborative models within the regular contract day.

Partners:

WEA, AWSP, WASA, ESD 101, ESD 105, ESD 112, ESD 113, ESD 123, ESD 189, North Central ESD, OESD 114 and Puget Sound ESD

What is on the Web site?

The Web site, www.PLCWashington.org provides a comprehensive look at professional learning communities which includes identifying the necessary conditions required to implement PLCs, team norms, procedures, study group protocols, looking at student work protocols, building trust, collaboration practices, coaching, and shared leadership.

What Resources are Available?

• Awareness Presentations
• Professional Development
• Technical Assistance
• Consultancy
• Troubleshooting
• Web site
• Online Courses

Where Do I go for help?

www.PLCWashington.org WEA Learning and Education Policy Center (LEPC) Contact: Scott Poirier This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it 360-561-0019