Houston County School District was recently recognized by Solution Tree for its sustained success in raising student achievement. The District’s successful implementation of the Professional Learning Communities (PLC) at Work process was a major contributing factor in the improved achievement of its students.

PLCs are schools and districts in which educators recognize the key to improved learning for students is on-going, job-embedded learning for the adults who serve those students. The three big ideas of a PLC call upon educators to:

1. Focus on learning.
2. Build a collaborative culture.
3. Create a results orientation.

“We are so honored to be named as a Model PLC at Work District,” said Dr. Lazunia Frierson, Assistant Superintendent of District and School Effectiveness. “Our staff work extremely hard to ensure all of our students are learning and growing at the appropriate level. They use a variety of tools to assist our students in their learning and are dedicated to working with each of them to achieve success.”

Schools are recognized based on strict criteria, including demonstration of a commitment to PLC concepts, implementation of these concepts for at least three years, and clear evidence of improved student learning over that period. Once measurable results can be seen, the school must explain its practices, structures, and culture and submit its application for consideration by the PLC Review Committee.

According to the Champions of PLC at Work, educators in the schools and districts selected for this recognition have shown “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. We applaud them and congratulate them for achieving this very significant milestone on the never-ending PLC journey.”