Reviving Professional Learning Communities: Strength Through Diversity, Conflict, Teamwork, and Structure

In this era of innovation and accountability, it is critical for our educational leaders to develop expert skills in forming professional learning teams. Ultimately, this work translates into a clearer sense of mission, more effective methods of delivery in the classroom and stronger educational programs for our students. Reviving Professional Learning Communities is the right blend of research, practice and personal experience by the authors. A strong understanding of the four elements of Standpoint, Struggle, Solidarity, and Structure provides a great framework to move a professional team from theory to practice. This work provides practical steps for implementation and should be an essential addition to any educator’s professional library.

Perry P. Wiseman is currently a director for the Los Angeles County Office of Education, working closely with principals and teachers reaching at-risk students who fall through the cracks in the public educational system. He is former school principal, founder of the educational consulting firm WiseFoundations (www.wisefoundations.com), and author of the book, Strong Schools, Strong Leaders.

Hector Arroyo, Jr. works at Western University Health Sciences in Pomona as a Learning Skills Specialist. In this position he collaborates with administration, faculty, and mentors to help graduate students overcome the challenges of medical school.

Nicholas R. Richter is a high school principal with 13 years of experience in education. He started his educational career as a high school mathematics teacher. Nick successfully found ways to relate a difficult subject to students and even had a little fun doing it.