KINGSPORT, Tenn. - John Adams Elementary School has been recognized by Solution Tree as a Model Professional Learning Community (PLC) at Work® School for sustained success in raising student achievement. The implementation of the PLC at Work® process was a major contributing factor in the improved achievement of its students. Adams Elementary School is one of approximately 600 schools and districts in the United States and Canada to receive this honor.

 

"It is an honor to recognize the faculty and leadership at Adams Elementary for earning the prestigious recognition of being named a Model PLC at Work School," said Dr. Chis Hampton, Kingsport City Schools Superintendent. "Adams is one of only seven schools in Tennessee to earn this status and one of only two elementary schools in the state. The Adams' faculty is committed to a focus on student learning, upholding a culture of collaboration, and using a data-orientation to improve learning for all students. Congratulations Adams on this remarkable achievement." 

 

"Adams Elementary prides itself in being a school of continuous learning for both students and adults," said Dr. Kelley Harrell, Adams Elementary School Principal. "Over the past five years, our teachers have worked diligently to refine and enhance our collaborative practices to insure academic progress for all students. Our collaborative efforts have enabled great academic growth and embody the culture of our school. I am so proud of our teachers' commitment to PLC work as a vehicle to strategically plan for improved outcomes for our students. This recognition is a direct result of our teachers' fidelity to high academic standards and a clear focus on student learning."  

 

PLCs are schools and districts in which educators recognize the key to improved learning for students is on-going, job-embedded learning for the adults serving those students. PLCs call upon educators to:

1. Focus on learning.
2. Build a collaborative culture.
3. Create a results orientation.

Schools are recognized based on strict criteria, including demonstration of a commitment to the above PLC concepts, implementation of these concepts for at least three years, and clear evidence of improved student learning over that period. Once results can be seen, the school must submit an application explaining its practices, structures, and culture for consideration by the PLC Review Committee.

 

Schools and districts selected for this recognition have shown a sustained commitment to helping all of their students achieve at high levels and have been willing to alter the structure and culture of the organization to reflect their commitment.

For more than 25 years, Solution Tree resources have helped K–12 teachers and administrators create schools where all children succeed.