In an ever-evolving educational landscape, the pursuit of professional growth and collaboration among educators stands as a cornerstone for academic excellence. On Friday, February 9th, teachers in the GRACE district came together at Notre Dame of De Pere for an in-service learning initiative focused on Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). These communities, designed to foster a culture of continuous improvement and collaborative learning among educators, have been met with resounding enthusiasm and promise.
Dr. Anne Franklin, a leading authority in educational leadership and instructional design, captivated audiences with her dynamic presentation style and wealth of expertise. Drawing upon years of research and hands-on experience, she elucidated the critical role of PLCs in nurturing collaborative inquiry and fostering instructional excellence.
“Today is about more than just sharing insights; it’s about igniting a collective passion for student success,” remarked Dr. Franklin as she kicked off the day’s proceedings. With unwavering enthusiasm, she delved into the foundational principles of PLCs, emphasizing their potential to cultivate a culture of shared responsibility and continuous professional growth among educators.
Throughout the day, participants were immersed in interactive workshops and presentations, designed to equip them with practical strategies for establishing and sustaining effective PLCs within their school communities. From establishing clear learning goals to fostering meaningful collaboration, Dr. Franklin provided educators with a roadmap for success in their PLC endeavors. She even referenced the RAGBRAI bicycle ride and used that as a metaphor for what a good PLC process looks like.
Several teachers at St. Bernard expressed their excitement about integrating PLCs into their professional development journey. One said, “The in-service on Friday provided invaluable insights into the power of collaboration among educators. PLCs offer a structured platform for us to exchange ideas, share best practices, and collectively address instructional challenges.”
Another teacher said, “Dr. Franklin’s insights have not only deepened my understanding of PLCs but also equipped me with practical tools to leverage data effectively in my classroom. I am looking forward to working with my team each week to apply what we learned.”
The core philosophy underlying PLCs revolves around the belief that educators, when given the opportunity to collaborate and reflect on their practices, can enhance student learning outcomes significantly. By forming interdisciplinary or vertical teams, teachers engage in ongoing dialogue to analyze student data, design targeted interventions, and refine instructional strategies tailored to meet the diverse needs of their students.
Mr. Gusloff, principal at St. Bernard, says, “At its essence, PLCs embody a culture of shared responsibility and collective efficacy. By harnessing the collective expertise of educators, schools can cultivate a supportive environment conducive to professional growth and student achievement.”
As the St. Bernard teachers return to school, armed with newfound knowledge and enthusiasm, the ripple effects of the in-service learning on PLCs are palpable. Teachers will meet once per week in their respective units to continue to look at data and focus on the four main questions: 1. What do we want all students to know and be able to do? 2. How will we know if they learn it? 3. How will we respond when some students do not learn? 4. How will we extend the learning for students who are already proficient?
In conclusion, the in-service on Professional Learning Communities last week Friday ignited a spark of enthusiasm and innovation among educators. As St. Bernard and the other GRACE schools embark on this journey of collaborative inquiry and professional growth, the collective dedication and commitment of teachers promise to pave the way for a brighter and more enriching educational experience for all students.
St. Bernard Catholic School is part of the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System. It is a private Catholic school serving Preschool and Elementary through 8th grade (PK3-8) with open enrollment. St. Bernard’s provides an individualized education in a faith-based environment. Each child is supported not only academically, but spiritually.
