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Why PLCs Matter for Student Learning

Authored by
Tami Bebee-Schwartz

How to Build an Effective PLC: Step-by-Step

1. Start with Shared Goals

Effective PLCs begin with clarity. What student outcomes are you working toward? What instructional shifts do you want to see?
Try this: Use school or grade-level data to set 1–2 measurable goals focused on student learning.

2. Define Roles and Norms

Each PLC needs structure. Set expectations for time use, decision-making, and participation.
Try this: Rotate facilitators, use shared agendas, and close each meeting with clear next steps.

3. Use Data to Drive Conversations

Data should guide—not dominate—PLC discussions. The goal is to learn from the data and adjust instruction accordingly.
Try this: Bring student work samples. Ask, “What is this showing us about their learning and our teaching?”

4. Plan Instruction Together

The heart of a PLC is shared instructional planning. Use what you learn from data to adjust and improve.
Try this: Co-plan mini-lessons. Share anchor charts. Script discussion questions for difficult concepts.

5. Follow Up with Coaching or Modeling

PLC impact grows when meetings are paired with classroom support.
Instructional Intensity Inc. often combines facilitation with coaching or modeling, so strategies move from paper to practice.

What Makes a PLC Successful?

In our experience, the strongest PLCs share these key traits:

  • Consistency: Meetings happen regularly and are protected on the calendar.
  • Clarity: The goal and agenda are known in advance.
  • Trust: Teachers feel safe sharing challenges and trying new ideas.
  • Follow-through: Each cycle includes planning, implementation, reflection, and adjustment.

PLC work is not about doing more. It’s about doing what matters—together.

Let’s Strengthen Your PLCs

We partner with schools across Wyoming to design PLCs that are practical, teacher-led, and research-informed. Our services include:

  • PLC facilitation and structure development
  • Instructional coaching aligned to PLC goals
  • Data analysis and goal-setting support
  • Tiered instruction planning
  • Leadership team development

Whether your PLCs are just beginning or need a refresh, we’ll meet you where you are and help you build forward.
Let's Chat about your goals!

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