Fairview- Margueri te Elementary School, of Hamblen County, was one of 600 schools/districts in the United States and Canada to be recently recognized by Solution Tree for its sustained success in raising student achievement. Fairview-Marguerite’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, jobembedded 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.

Responding to news of the recognition, Fairview-Marguerite Principal Eric Langhans said that being recognized as a Model PLC School by Solution Tree is a reflection of the relentless commitment of their teachers, staff, students, and families to ensure high levels of learning for every child.

“This honor is not about one person or one program — it is about a collective belief that all students can learn at high levels when educators work collaboratively, remain focused on results, and refuse to give up on kids,” Langhans said. “I am incredibly proud of what our school community has accomplished together, and this recognition affirms the hard work, dedication, and heart that our staff pours into students each and every day.”

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 application for consideration by the PLC Review Committee.

“According to the Champions of PLC at Work, educators in the schools and districts selected for this recognition have shown “a sustained commitment to helping all of their students achieve at high levels.

“They have been willing to alter the structure and culture of the organization to reflect their commitment. We applaud them and congratulate them for achieving this very significant milestone on the never-ending PLC journey.”

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.

The site was developed and is maintained by Solution Tree, a leading provider of educational strategies and tools that improve staff and student performance.