Southwestern Elementary School earns Promising Practices recognition

Southwestern Elementary School earns Promising Practices recognition

Southwestern Elementary has been named a Promising Practices Professional Learning Community at Work school by Solution Tree for its success in raising student learning standards and fostering school-wide collaboration.

Promising Practices schools are recognized for building a strong foundation based on the PLC concepts, implementation of these concepts for at least one to two 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.

"It was exciting to hear that we earned the Promising Practice recognition," said Molly Moore, Southwestern Central School superintendent. "Kudos to our staff for being committed to putting academics and instruction first for our kids."

Southwestern's Professional Learning Community work began several years ago with the creation of a guiding coalition, a leadership team composed of district teachers and administrators to drive academic growth.

"It's been an honor and a privilege to work with such a dedicated team to always put our students first and make sure they have everything they need to be successful," said Katie Weilacher, a fourth-grade teacher and member of the coalition.

The initiative supports the district's mission of "Learning for All."

"This recognition is a very solid and promising step in our commitment to our students," said Kaitlin Ring, Southwestern director of instructional services. "The PLC process centers on focusing on learning, building a collaborative culture, and staying results-oriented."

For administrative leaders, the award validates the daily dedication of Southwestern's teaching staff.

"The daily collaboration here makes a profound impact on student learning," said Michael Butler, Southwestern elementary principal. "This recognition is a testament to our teams' dedication to this process and their belief in our mission."