Wildwood Elementary Recognized as a Model PLC School by Solution Tree

TOMBALL — Tomball ISD’s Wildwood Elementary was recently recognized by Solution Tree for its sustained success in raising student achievement. The school’s successful implementation of the Professional Learning Communities at Work® process was a major contributing factor in the improved achievement of its students.

Wildwood Elementary became the 13th Model PLC school in Tomball ISD with the District also holding the prestigious title of Model PLC District.

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 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.

“The PLC journey of Wildwood Elementary has been one of constant and steadfast attention to professional learning for the educators on campus to ensure all students learn,” said Assistant Superintendent of Strategic Innovation Dr. Lee Wright. “The campus leaders stayed focused on the WHY of the work to nurture a culture of collaboration and allowed teams to grow through research-based and personal testimonials of success. The teams truly engaged in a Learning by Doing environment with honest feedback between the teachers and the campus leaders.”

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.

“Wildwood Elementary has intentionally focused on improving student achievement through the PLC process,” said WES Principal Dr. Letty Roman. “Although we have had highs and lows, challenges and successes, overall, we have seen teachers persevere and keep their eye on our students. We have had three years of improved student success, and we know this accolade is evidence of the quality work the team is engaged in at Wildwood. The team has shown a growth mindset, resilience, and high teacher efficacy. To say I’m proud of the teaching staff at Wildwood does not capture the feeling in my heart. However, I am confident that the students of Wildwood Elementary are in good hands with our talented teaching staff.”

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. For more than 20 years, Solution Tree resources have helped K–12 teachers and administrators create schools where all children succeed.

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ABOUT TOMBALL ISD
Tomball ISD educates students to become responsible, productive citizens by providing innovative, individually rigorous, and personally valuable educational experiences. Founded in 1908, Tomball ISD now encompasses 83 square miles in northwest Harris County and southwest Montgomery County, and is located approximately 30 miles from downtown Houston. The district currently educates over 22,000 students across 23 campuses.