Pasadena ISD is one of only two school districts in the state of Texas to be recognized as a Model Professional Learning Community at Work™. Only 24 school districts throughout the country and Canada have been selected for this prestigious honor.
The district was selected for this recognition by Solution Tree for demonstrating a commitment to PLC concepts, implementing these concepts for three years and for showing clear evidence of improved student learning. School districts honored as a Model PLC have successfully met the rigorous criteria set by Solution Tree, which calls on educators to show they:
1. have focused on learning;
2. built a collaborative culture;
3. are results oriented.
Becoming a Model PLC school district was part of a long journey, dating back to 2013. That year, 350 associate superintendents, principals and assistant principals attended a PLC at Work conference in San Antonio. This event created a shift in culture.
After the conference, schools worked on their campus’ individual PLC processes and implementations, focusing on team collaboration and increasing access to tools that boost student achievement.
Marsha Jones, a former principal and current executive director of curriculum and instruction, attended the conference and later worked with administrators and faculty throughout Pasadena ISD to lead efforts of implementing PLCs districtwide.
“Being named a Model PLC District is an amazing accomplishment and a testament to the incredible work of our district, campus administrators, teachers, collaborative teams and students. In Pasadena ISD, ‘All means All,’ and the continued work and effort of our PLC collaborative teams will continue to make a difference in the lives of our students and educators,” Jones said.
Today, all 67 schools in Pasadena ISD go the extra mile to set aside time and resources for intervention and enrichment for students, PLC trainings and to work in collaborative teams each week. Pasadena ISD has also created its own hashtag #PISDPLC so educators and administrators districtwide can share ideas with one another via social media.
“I am so proud of our leadership teams and staff who have been dedicated to making sure we implement Professional Learning Communities with fidelity. PLCs have made a true difference in our school district, helping to boost student achievement in all student groups. Marsha Jones is to be commended for leading the charge in our curriculum and instruction department.” said Dr. DeeAnn Powell, Pasadena ISD superintendent.