The Positive Impact of
Professional Learning Communities
by Dr. Cyndi Williams,
Educational Leadership, Radford University
VASCD Newsletter Editor

With a passion for teaching and learning, a cup of coffee, and reflections to share, a small group of educators join together with their school administrator in a weekly professional learning community (PLC) session. These short, but informative meetings, held before, during, or after the school day foster a sense of collective teacher efficacy to support quality learning experiences for students, data-driven decision making, and boosts in student achievement. Relationships developed in these PLC focus groups span across grade levels, content areas, schools, and divisions. These relationships, networking opportunities, and genuine conversations about what is best for students are the foundation for great schools.

In their book Leaders of Learning , DuFour and Marzano state, “The best strategy for improving schools and districts is developing the collective capacity of educators to function as members of a professional learning community (PLC) - a concept based on the premise that if students are to learn at high levels, processes must be in place to ensure the ongoing, job-embedded learning of the adults who serve them” (2011, p. 21). Learning opportunities in PLCs can take many forms based on the needs of the students and the school community. Leadership within these powerful groups builds a collective teacher efficacy that supports authentic student learning.

Join us for VASCD's
2019 Spring Leadership Conference :

* Learn about leadership for GenZ students from Andrew McPeak.
* Gain strategies to promote positive relationships in your school.
* Work with expert principals on engaging teachers to design and lead innovative practice.

REL CORNER:
LEADERSHIP
VASCD is pleased to share resources from the Regional Educational Laboratory (REL), which conducts applied research and trainings with a mission of supporting a more evidence-based education system.

“Leadership is a potent combination of strategy and character. But if you must be without one, be without the strategy.”

- Norman Schwarzkopf
Member Benefits
If you're a VASCD member, these programs are available to you at little or no cost. Visit VASCD.ORG for more information or to become a member.

March 7
New Teacher Forum
5-7 pm
Cumberland County
Free to ALL new teachers

March 20
Innovation Forum in Bedford County Schools
Free to VASCD members

April 13
New Teacher Conference
Chesterfield County
$5, open to ALL new teachers

April 11
Innovation Forum at Central High School,
Shenandoah County Schools
Free to VASCD members

Watch your email for upcoming free webinars for members!

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