Improving Student Literacy Experiences and Outcomes in Philadelphia by Leveraging Professional Learning Communities

The Acceleration Network, a cohort of 15 historically low-performing schools in the School District of Philadelphia, is using continuous improvement to improve student literacy experiences and outcomes. Our network has defined equitable literacy instruction through a set of core values that center student engagement with grade-level content. We are dedicated to ensuring all students have access to complex text by accelerating learning while addressing unfinished learning. Listen to our teachers, teacher leaders, and principals tell their improvement stories. Learn how we have leveraged our professional learning community structures and cultures to improve at the classroom, school, and network level. Leave strategies to fuel a culture of continuous improvement.

Presenters

Sean Conley, Assistant Superintendent, School District of Philadelphia
Allison Seger, Professional Learning Specialist, School District of Philadelphia
Bahir Hayes, School Principal, Bryant Elementary Middle School, School District of Philadelphia
Dr. Sheena Wilson, School Principal, Blankenburg Elementary Middle School, School District of Philadelphia
Letia Parks, Teacher Leader, Sullivan Elementary School, School District of Philadelphia
Dawne Davis, Teacher Leader, James Rhoads Elementary Middle School, School District of Philadelphia
Janna Reeves, English Teacher, Jay Cooke Elementary Middle School, School District of Philadelphia
Mark Macyk, English Teacher, Steel Elementary Middle School, School District of Philadelphia