Program Description
The Professional Learning Communities at Work (PLC at Work) process is an approach to school improvement aimed at enhancing student learning through teacher collaboration. It fosters a culture of collective responsibility among educators, who work in recurring cycles of collaborative planning, assessment, and targeted intervention to meet students’ needs. Guided by three core principles—focus on learning, collaborative culture, and results orientation—PLC at Work encourages educators to prioritize student learning outcomes, engage in shared teaching practices, and use data to make instructional adjustments. This model provides a framework for schools to build effective teaching communities where all staff members contribute to the academic and social success of every student.
Program Outcomes
The impact of the Professional Learning Communities at Work (PLC at Work) process was evaluated in a quasi-experimental study involving schools across Arkansas. Implemented with Solution Tree’s support, the program provided up to 50 days of on-site coaching per year and included training resources tailored to each school’s needs. The study compared over 2,500 students in 12 schools (primarily elementary and middle schools) using PLC at Work to similar students in well-matched schools not involved in the initiative. The sample included diverse demographics: 55% White, 22% Black, 18% Latinx, with 85% qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch. Results showed that after less than two years of the three-year intervention,* PLC at Work had a statistically significant positive effect on the state-administered ACT Aspire math achievement test scores (effect size = +0.08), though it did not significantly affect ELA scores. Subgroup analysis indicated notable growth for students from traditionally underserved groups, such as those eligible for free or reduced-price lunch. The significant gain in math achievement, earns PLC at Work an ESSA Moderate rating.
*Results from the three-year intervention were not measured due to the cancellation of state assessments during the 2019/20 school year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Staffing Requirements
No additional staff required. Coaches work with leadership, classroom teachers, and building level coaches to implement the PLC at Work process.
Professional Development/Training
Solution Tree provides professional development along with print resources and an online professional learning platform to support teachers and school leaders as they learn to better prepare their students for success. Solution Tree works with K-12 schools and districts to improve student achievement through a comprehensive range of services and products including events, district centered solutions for long-term professional development, workshops, books, videos, and more.
Technology
No additional technology required.