Solution Tree, an educational publisher, and professional development provider has announced Lander Valley High School as one of the three finalists in the nation for the fifth annual DuFour Award. The award honors one high-performing school that is recognized as a Model PLC on AllTHINGSPLC.info.
LVHS was named a Model PLC in October after years of implementing the changes necessary to become a Professional Learning Community. They are one of just two Model PLC High Schools in the state, joining Sheridan High School, and just one of 39 nationally. They are one of just 246 schools receiving Model PLC status K-12 in the United States.
In addition to being a Model PLC, nominees for the prestigious DuFour Award submitted an extensive application that validated their improvements to teaching and also demonstrated the gains to student achievement that have happened as a result of these changes. Since beginning the process, LVHS has seen an increase in their 9th-grade credit attainment rate, graduation rate, Advanced Placement Success Rate, and ACT scores. Schools also had to submit a five-minute video demonstrating their commitment to this process; LVHS’ video can be viewed at https://www.landerschools.org/
The other 2020 DuFour Award finalists included Mountain Meadow Elementary, Pierce County, Washington, and Westmont High School, Westmont, Illinois. “The work each of these Model PLC schools is doing on a daily basis is truly impressive,” said Solution Tree CEO Jeffrey C. Jones. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to recognize their unwavering dedication to helping students achieve at high levels.”
Established in 2015, the award is named in honor of the late Dr. Richard DuFour. An award-winning educator and best-selling author, Dr. DuFour was recognized as one of the leading authorities on the PLC at Work® process.
The DuFour Award winner will be announced during The Summit on PLC at Work® in Phoenix, Arizona, on January 28-30, 2020. The winner will be presented with a check for $25,000 and receive five free registrations to the Summit on PLC at Work®