Anderson School District One recognized for raising student achievement – Professional Learning Community At Work

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Anderson School District One was recently recognized by Solution Tree for its sustained success in raising student achievement. District One is one of 34 districts in the United States to receive the honor and the first in South Carolina.
District One’s successful implementation of the Professional Learning Communities 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:
⦁ Focus on learning.
⦁ Build a collaborative culture.
⦁ Create a results orientation.

Responding to news of the recognition, Superintendent Robbie Binnicker said, “We believe that teachers working collaboratively, which is one of the main focuses of Professional Learning Communities, is the key to helping Anderson One reach the very top of performance in the State.”
Districts 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 district must explain its practices, structures, and culture and submit its application for consideration by the PLC Review Committee.
Assistant Superintendent of Administration and Instruction Dr. Jeff Wilson said, “What a great accomplishment for Anderson School District One! Being one of only 34 nationwide Model PLC Districts is quite an honor. Our teachers and staff are committed to improving their instructional practice leading to increased student learning. We all believe PLCs are the path to continuous improvement. “
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.”
Director of Elementary Education Brad Moore said “Being honored as the first Model PLC District in the state of South Carolina is evidence of the commitment our district has made to high levels of learning for all students. I am so proud of our teachers and their dedication to the right work.”
Director of Secondary Education, Dr. Chris Ferguson added, “We are committed to continuous improvement for our schools and our students. This award is reassurance that we are heading in the right direction.”
Recognized model PLC schools and districts are listed on allthingsplc.info, where they share implementation strategies, structures, and performance with other educators interested in improving their schools. Tools for team collaboration, articles and research about PLCs, blog posts, and other related resources are also available on the site. The site was developed and is maintained by Solution Tree, a leading provider of educational strategies and tools that improve staff and student performance. For more than 20 years, Solution Tree resources have helped K–12 teachers and administrators create schools where all children succeed.