Clarence E. Culver School was honored as a Model Professional Learning Community (PLC) at Work by Solution Tree, recognizing the school's deep commitment to collaboration, continuous improvement, and student success. This national recognition is a significant milestone that reflects years of focused effort by Culver’s staff and students.
Over the past several years, Culver’s faculty and leadership team have embraced the Professional Learning Communities at Work process, transforming how teachers work together and how student learning is supported. By fostering a culture where staff collaborate regularly, use student data to guide instruction, and share best practices, Culver has seen measurable growth in student achievement.
“This recognition is a direct result of our teachers’ and staff’s relentless focus on doing what’s best for kids,” said Principal Erica Smolinski. “We’ve built a culture where learning is a shared responsibility, and our students are thriving because of it.”
PLC Coordinator Elaine Bolin reflected on the journey: “This recognition validates years of hard work, learning, and reflection. Our staff’s commitment to collaboration and doing what’s best for kids has made a lasting impact on student achievement—and we’re not done yet.”
Fourth-grade teacher Laura Priban added, “I’m thrilled to celebrate Culver as a Model PLC School! Every day, teachers and staff work together to help students grow. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished and look forward to all that is to come.”
To be recognized as a model PLC school, Culver demonstrated a multi-year commitment to the PLC process, a culture of collaboration, and clear evidence of improved student learning. Schools must also submit a detailed application outlining their practices, systems, and results for review by the PLC Review Committee.
School Board President Matt Holbrook praised the school’s efforts: “This honor reflects the extraordinary dedication of Culver’s teachers, administrators, and students. The board is incredibly proud of what this team has achieved. It’s inspiring to see what’s possible when a school community comes together with a clear purpose and a shared commitment to excellence.”
Culver will soon be featured on allthingsPLC.info, where it will share its practices with schools across the country. This national platform showcases schools that exemplify the principles of a high-performing PLC, and Culver joins a select group of schools recognized for building cultures where all students learn at high levels.