Considerations for Professional Learning Community Design in Disseminating English Language Development Standards and Strategies

• In Event: Roundtable Session 17
  In Roundtable Session: Supporting Teachers of English Language Learners

Abstract

Elements of professional learning communities (PLCs) were studied, within an urban school district, to add to existing literature on PLCs, a professional development (PD) approach known to develop teacher capacity. Various PDs were conducted in the first year of a three-year PD initiative to inform teachers of the new California English Language Development standards, emphasizing academic language of English Language Learners. As practitioner-researcher, I worked with five educators who participated in these PDs. Findings demonstrated the importance of observation, practice, and expert guidance to support learning. Participants also described their professional growth within a collegial atmosphere of trust, respect and positive social interactions. The final theme addressed commitment. Implications suggest that learning, collegiality, and commitment, are important factors in PLC design.

Author

• Laurie Jo Murdock, San Francisco Unified School District