Which action by a principal best supports the implementation of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs)?

The action that best supports the implementation of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) is establishing times to use data for informed practice. This is because one of the central tenets of PLCs is collaborative data analysis among educators to drive instructional improvements and student outcomes. By creating structured times for staff to engage with data, educators can identify trends, strengths, and areas for growth within their classrooms. This collaborative approach fosters a culture of continuous improvement and shared responsibility for student learning.

In contrast, scheduling weekly staff meetings, while important for staff communication, may not inherently focus on collaborative data use or professional development. Encouraging independent study, on the other hand, does not align with the collaborative nature of PLCs, which thrive on group engagement and shared learning experiences. Implementing new teaching technologies, while beneficial for instruction, needs to be accompanied by a foundation of data analysis and collaborative practice to truly integrate these tools effectively within a PLC framework. Thus, establishing dedicated times for data usage is crucial in fostering the goals of a Professional Learning Community.