Oak Ridge Named Model PLC School

Oak Ridge School finds itself in the upper echelon of schools not only across the state but the country after being named a Model Professional Learning Community (PLC)  School. The highly coveted designation means that the second-through fifth-grade school ranks in the Top 1 percent of schools with the same demographics.

A Model PLC School is one that believes in and follows the three big principles of a Professional Learning Community: A focus on learning; Collaborative Culture and Collective Responsibility for ALL Students and Maintain Results-Orientation.

A Model PLC School also shows significant student achievement over a three-year period and presents clear evidence of improved student learning.

To put the award in its proper context, of the roughly 50,000 elementary schools in the United States, fewer than 300 (less than 1 percent) are Model PLC Schools. And of the nearly 2,500 public elementary schools in Illinois, only 18 (less than 1 percent) are Model PLC Schools.

When factoring in the schools with the same demographics as Oak Ridge - 500-plus students; more than 55% low income; more than 30% EL and more than 10 percent having Individualized Education Plans - only eight schools NATIONWIDE are Model PLC Schools and ONLY ONE elementary school in Illinois is a Model PLC School (and Oak Ridge’s proficiency on ELA and Math is 50 percent higher than that school).

Jean Burnstine from Solution Tree, presented a commemorative flag and certificate to Oak Ridge Principal Stephanie Johnson and Assistant Principal Jessica Mycyk. Mrs. Burnstine said she was proud of the school’s accomplishment and was aware of the collaborative effort it took to achieve the status.

“When educators do the work necessary to implement these principles, your collective ability to help all students increases,” she said. “You are an extremely committed group. This is truly a collective accomplishment showing true collaboration and commitment of every team member at Oak Ridge.”

Principal Johnson said she was beyond words and so proud of the Oak Ridge Team. “The Oak Ridge community should be proud of obtaining Model PLC status. The team of teachers and staff are dedicated individuals with a strong focus on student learning and the success of each and every student.”