Collaboration. Innovation. Growth. That is what a Professional Learning Community (PLC) is all about. At The Forum School, six educators in the early childhood program are working together in a collaborative environment to share strategies, knowledge, and resources that will improve student learning.

Teachers and support staff regularly meet to discuss student progress, share insights about specific challenges, and collaborate on lesson plans and intervention strategies. Teachers learn from each other’s experiences, whether it’s through behavior management techniques, communication strategies, or sensory accommodations.

“While the benefits to teachers are clear, the students are the ones who really benefit the most,” said Brian Detlefsen, Director.

By design, classrooms at The Forum School are small. The PLC opens the doors – literally – for students to make new friendships and have the opportunity to learn in larger groups. It is a chance to expand social skills, and let students adjust to new adults in the room. Students have the possibility to develop a larger circle of friends at school, and for some, that has extended to activities outside of school hours such as play dates and birthday parties.

“Working in our Professional Learning Communities offers us a chance to collaborate, share ideas, discuss and problem solve daily challenges before the need to involve an administrator,” said Sonali Sadarangani, a member of the PCL.

“It helps the teachers get to know each other and support each other while also developing relationships with students throughout the program,” added teacher Dominique Dejean.