Research on teacher working conditions indicates that collaboration is critically important to teachers and a key indicator for retention. Professional learning communities, when implemented and facilitated with intention, can provide structured opportunities for professional learning in which educators work together to collaboratively improve instructional practice and student outcomes.

The Effective Professional Learning Communities framework is designed to support PLC growth and development in four key areas: Structure, Culture, Focus, and Facilitation. Key implementation guidelines help teams assess conditions for PLC function and maximize effectiveness.