EPS Recognized as a Model Professional Learning Community (PLC) at Work

Dear East Prairie families,

We are pleased to share that East Prairie has been designated as an international Model PLC School District.  This recognition is something that every member of our school community should take immense pride in, and is a credit to the commitment and care of our students, educators, families, Board of Education, and entire school community.

Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) are schools and districts in which educators recognize the key to improved learning for students is on-going, job-embedded learning for the adults who serve those students. The three big ideas of a PLC call upon educators to: 

1. Focus on learning. 

2. Build a collaborative culture. 

3. Create a results orientation.

Schools are recognized based upon strict criteria, including demonstration of a commitment to PLC concepts, implementation of these concepts for at least three years, and clear evidence of improved student learning over that period.  Once measurable results can be seen, the school must explain its practices, structures, and culture and submit its application for consideration by the PLC Review Committee. 

Our journey towards this accomplishment is one of collective creation and shared transformation.  With the tumult and hardship of the pandemic, also came incredible opportunity - our community seized this moment to truly transform itself.  It was during this time that we began the work of mapping out a five year strategic plan that would form the foundation of our continuous improvement efforts.  Our mission to “value the uniqueness of all and ensure the highest levels of learning” became the fundamental purpose of our school community, sharpening our focus, clarifying our priorities, and driving action.

This accolade marks significant progress towards living our mission while striving towards our vision: "to become the premier school district in the nation by focusing on community, innovation, and growth, so that all learners will be successful."  It is in this pursuit of excellence that we reach our fullest potential as a school community, by supporting children to realize theirs.  Our shared work develops confident, competent, and caring young people who are ready to build a better and brighter future.  Our collective commitment is truly life-changing.

During a period of time where the range of needs within our community has continued to grow, we have pulled together to achieve levels of learning for our students that are higher than at any point in our school’s history.  All of this has been accomplished within a culture of care, collaboration, and with an unwavering commitment to excellence.  And yet we know, and love, that this work is ongoing.  We know that true success comes from ensuring that all learners have the skills, mindsets, and dispositions to become the fullest and best version of themselves.  We are committed to learning, growing, and improving upon this work every day.   

Thank you for your care, support, and partnership!