The Superhero Power of PLCs/Shared Leadership...

The data is in full view now. The BOY DRAs are reported. There have been a round or two of CBAs, and the honeymoon is over. Reality is in full focus and the road of where we need to go has been mapped out. The end point is between at least a years growth, EOY DRA Levels and for 3-5 STAAR passing rates. However, the starting point is different for each student and nothing less than "Excellence for All" is the expectation.

It can seem impossible. This is where our collective efficacy comes into play. Our belief in the idea we CAN.

One of the single most powerful ways we build that efficacy, are able to purposefully address the reality and move forward to the end point is through PLCs.

PLCs in their pure form are designed around three big ideas:

• Focus on Learning
• Collaborative Culture
• Results Oriented

When our PLCs are centered around these ideas, productive work is accomplished and we are solution oriented in our approach to every challenge.

As PLCs come together there are the four guiding questions that dirve the focus of the PLC. The four questions below should cycle through a PLC in a cyclical, purposeful and intentional method.

As we discuss currirulum, common assessments, data and rigor, relevance and engagement, we also must note the above questions. Every PLC will not address every question every time, just like every PLC will not address the four areas of an NISD PLC every time. However, utilizing our notes/agenda to review what discussions and questions have been addressed, helps to guide where we may need to take next steps with upcoming PLCs.

When we foster a collaobrative culture within our PLCs, then together we share our challenges, our strategies for success and share in our accomplishments. When we all take a step toward sharing in the process, we take on a piece fo the larger work. We then no longer do it alone, but share the load, work alongside one another, and gain the capacity to do even more.

With intention we move forward. How can we be intentional? Be mindful of the three Big Ideas, keeping our PLCs focused aroung the NISD Four Areas; and within those four areas, be sure that we are asking each of the four guiding questions at some point in PLCs within each marking period. 

As a team take initiative to set your agendas ahead of time. Reflect over previous PLCs and utilize the opportunity in the last 5 minutes of each PLC to set next steps for upcoming PLCs. Take time to look at other teams PLC agenda/notes in our PLC team drive. What are teams doing well? What can we learn from one another? What needs more structures provided via administrative support and what continues to lend itself to the teacher leadership within the team and ongoing autonomy?

How can we be impactful with our PLCs and continue to foster collective efficacy?