Palmetto Middle Recognized for Student Achievement

Observer Reports

Palmetto Middle School in Anderson School District One was recently recognized by Solution Tree for its sustained success in raising student achievement. The school’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:

1.        Focus on learning.

2.        Build a collaborative culture.

3.       Create a results orientation.

“The PLC journey at Palmetto Middle School has been absolutely incredible,” said Principal Jason McCauley “We truly believe that ALL of our students can and should be learning at high levels.”

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

Recognized model PLC schools 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.

For more information, contact: Dr. Jeff Wilson, Assistant Superintendent of Administration at  wilsonj@apps.anderson1.org