Professional Learning Communities

Chad M. V. Dumas, EdD, focuses primarily on collaborating to develop capacity for continuous improvement. An international educational presenter and award-winning researcher, he has led nationally recognized improvements for both students and staff.

Jill Lizier is a districtwide director of curriculum, instruction, and assessment in Exeter, New Hampshire, and has previously served as an assistant principal and special education building coordinator, a curriculum coordinator for an elementary school, and first-grade teacher.

Laurie is a highly experienced teacher in both general education and special education and has embraced leadership roles throughout her career to exemplify best practices and improve student growth.

Mary McCorvey has worked in public education for over 20 years. As an instructional specialist, she works with K–12 teachers and administrators to support students receiving special education services in inclusive settings.

Michelle Garlick is a former classroom teacher and instructional coach and currently serves as assistant principal at Woodlawn Middle School for Kildeer Countryside School District 96 in suburban Chicago.

Jennifer Dickson is an educator and expert with a passion for working with preK–5 educators to ensure all students learn at high levels. She is an advocate for early childhood education and early intervention for learners with almost 30 years of experience in public school education.

With more than 30 years of experience in education, Tracy Nelson specializes in supporting districts, buildings, and teams in developing and implementing practices that bring clarity and focus to professional learning communities

Sal Herrera is the director of student support services in Fremont, California. He specializes in coaching collaborative teams, designing an effective multitiered system of supports (MTSS), and building a culture of collective responsibility.

Scott M. Beattie is the assistant superintendent for instruction of the Windsor Central School District in Windsor, New York. With over 15 years experience, he specializes in professional learning community and Community School implementation, technology integration, and K–12 career pathway development.

Kristi Napoli is the principal at Golden Hills Elementary School, a Model Professional Learning Community at Work® school in Northern California. With over 20 years of experience, she’s found success in collaborative teams, the professional learning community process, and multitiered systems of support.