Professional Learning Communities

Karin K. Hess, EdD, the creator of the Hess Cognitive Rigor Matrices, is an internationally recognized speaker and leader in developing practical approaches for using cognitive rigor and learning progressions in assessments. Since 1998, Karin has been working in schools as an elementary and middle school principal, district curriculum director, and classroom teacher.

When teams commit to collaborating to ensure high levels of learning for ALL students, a key critical step is to examine personal and systemic beliefs, policies, and practices to build a school and district culture where systems align. Focused on closing the gaps for students with identified needs, this session, designed for leaders of both general and special educators, provides an overview of the core concepts and associated practices to collaboratively support all learners and bring this vision to life.

Kara Tidemann has successfully served for over 25 years in education. As a building leader she successfully led an underperforming school to high performance, earning Model PLC at Work® school status for demonstration of exceptional academic achievement over time.

During this 1-Day Workshop, participants will gain strategies for how to build better parent engagement and collaboration with your school community to better support all of your students. Each participant will learn about a “Parentship” and how to purposely build a guiding coalition to move this work forward in their schools. Participants will also be given several easy-to-implement strategies for their own collaborative teams and school communities along with time and tools to think through that process.

In this session, participants will explore innovative strategies and practical tools designed to challenge advanced learners through extended and personalized learning opportunities. Attendees will examine how flexible grouping, tiered assignments, and student choice can transform their classrooms into dynamic spaces that promote deep engagement and continuous learning. By embedding these strategies into their PLC processes, participants will leave equipped to elevate their team's impact on all students.

Obie Leff has more than 30 years of expertise in education and leadership. He currently serves as director and principal of Twin Rivers Charter School, a 2024 Model PLC at Work® and National Blue Ribbon School.

Rebecca Williams, executive director of academic programs for Fulton County Schools, has over 15 years of instructional leadership experience. She led Webb Bridge Middle School in Alpharetta, Georgia, enhancing student achievement and transforming school culture.

Lori Curtis has over a decade of professional learning systems experience and currently serves as the executive director of learning, instruction, and technology in the White River School District, a Model PLC district in Buckley, Washington.

Reboot, energize, and simplify the professional learning communities (PLC) process with The 15-Day Challenge! This practical guide brings the PLC process to life through seven simple unit design steps, providing a clear road map for creating a guaranteed and viable curriculum. Designed for results, this challenge helps educators navigate the PLC journey with clarity and impact.