An account and analysis of implementing professional learning communities in a high school

Archbald, Douglas A.This paper gives an account and an analysis of a three year implementation process of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) in a high school. It is an account of an organizational change and my role as a school leader introducing change under sometimes challenging circumstances. The PLC process began relatively quickly and with little preparation and guidance. It was a mandate from the state that all schools implement professional learning communities to meet for collaboration and planning for 90 minute blocks per week. Appoquinimink School District did not have experience with PLCs before this and the state provided few guidelines and minimal support. As the school leader, my goal has been to create effective, well-functioning PLCs. This encompasses increasing understanding of the purpose and best practices of PLCs, developing and implementing protocols to be followed in PLC meetings, and annually evaluating PLC effectiveness to provide support, resources, and/or professional development. While there has been progress, PLC development has been uneven and challenging. The paper provides lessons learned and concludes with next steps.University of Delaware, School of EducationD.Ed