Reclaiming Our Teaching Profession

Drawing from a wealth of research and experience, this book shows educators how to use the transformative power of professional learning in community to raise the professional stature of educators. The authors, experts in their field, provide clear steps and real-school examples with a focus on collaborative adult learning for student gains, community respect, professional satisfaction, and collegial support. They examine pitfalls and distractions, and show clear images of what empowered Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) look like for teachers, administrators, and leaders at the school and district level. The authors also provide practical tools for advancing and measuring progress. This resource will help educators move from a climate of sanctions to one of mutual trust and support committed to students and dedicated to working and learning together.

Shirley M. Hord is Scholar Laureate in association with Learning Forward, and was Scholar Emerita at the Southwest Educational Development Laboratory (SEDL) in Austin, Texas. Her books include Learning Together, Learning Together: Changing School Through Professional learning communities. Edward F. Tobia works at SEDL in the Improving School Performing unit in Austin, Texas.