Cairo-Durham Elementary recognized as a Model PLC at Work School

CAIRO―Cairo-Durham Elementary School has been recognized as a Model Professional Learning Community (PLC) at Work School by Solution Tree for its sustained success in raising student achievement.

Approximately one in 600 schools and districts in the U.S. and Canada receive this honor.

The school’s successful implementation of the Professional Learning Communities at Work process was a major contributing factor in improving student achievement.

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.

Responding to news of the recognition,:

“I am incredibly proud to serve as the leader of a Model PLC School. The teachers and staff at Cairo-Durham Elementary have worked diligently to maintain a strong focus on learning, collaboration, and results for students,” said Principal Christopher Stein.

“Together, we have implemented systems and structures that support learning for all students, and we continue to see positive growth across all areas of our school,” he added.

Being recognized as a Model PLC School, Stein said, “validates the important work taking place each day at CDE and reinforces our commitment to focusing on the practices that make the greatest impact on students’ lives.”

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.

“Cairo-Durham Elementary’s approach to teamwork and learning has proven effective as teachers utilize the PLC process to ensure that all students are learning at high levels,” said teacher Katie Chase.

“Teaching teams meet regularly to identify essential learning standards, analyze student data, share successful instructional strategies, and plan interventions. This collective commitment and culture of collaboration creates consistency across grade levels and helps ensure that every student in our school receives the support they need to succeed,” Chase said.