Implementing Effective Professional Learning Communities Dr. Omar Ezzeldine

Current Framework “Meetings:” Gather to discuss or review events, programs, policies, etc. “Professional Development:” An “expert” guides participants through a process of changing practices/behaviors

Professional Learning Communities are Different Ongoing growth process (not a single event) Members meet regularly (weekly, monthly), share expertise, and work collaboratively to focus on teaching and learning School-wide with cross-sections of different teams (Grade 1, 2, and 3 teachers sharing) Holistic view of curriculum and opportunities for shared successes. Process is cyclical, reflective, exploratory, and involves inquiry.

Provide a Clear Structure and Goals Meeting dates and times are pre-determined. Each meeting must have an agenda and minutes Outcomes must be tangible and point of reflection for future meetings

2. Address the most critical instructional concerns Avoid “fixing” everything Stay focused, identify the common interest for the PLC Make sure the concern is clearly articulated

3. Support must come from all levels Admin should be present Invite others that may contribute if appropriate (experts, parents, students, community, staff) Work and support should occur outside of the meeting

4. Trust Creating a “safe space” Be open and honest Speak your own truth (don’t assume others’ thoughts) Be kind to yourself (so others know you will be kind to them) The process is cyclical - we try, assess, try something else if we need to

5. Monitoring and Feedback Accountability (reports, minutes) Data drives the process Invite observers to give feedback

6. Professionalism Respect time Respect people Respect ideas Respect opportunity Believe in capacity