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The fourth critical question of a PLC—"How do we extend learning for students who have already mastered the intended outcomes?"—often proves challenging for collaborative teams. Addressing this question is vital to ensuring that all students experience meaningful growth.
Steve Pearce and Mark Weichel explore strategies and tools to challenge advanced learners through extended and personalized learning. Flexible grouping, tiered assignments, and student choice can transform classrooms into dynamic spaces that promote deep engagement and continuous learning. By embedding these strategies into PLC processes, participants can elevate their team's impact on all students.
Participants develop real-world examples of how voice, choice, and flexibility can create equitable and engaging learning environments.
Understand the role of Question Four in achieving the mission of a high-functioning PLC.
Explore preassessment techniques to identify students ready for extended learning.
Learn actionable strategies like curriculum compacting, choice boards, and learning stations to challenge advanced learners.
Discover how to use digital tools and performance assessments to foster student-driven inquiry and creation.
Reflect on team collaboration practices that support inclusive extension planning.
Steve Pearce, EdD, is the chief human resources officer for Batavia Public Schools in Illinois. He is former principal of Jane Addams Junior High and Margaret Mead junior high schools, both in Schaumburg School District 54 in Illinois. During his tenure at Addams and Mead, Steve led his staffs in building PLCs with tremendous results.
For years, Addams was the lowest achieving school of the five junior highs in the district. In just one year of full PLC implementation, Addams became the highest achieving junior high in reading. Addams also achieved the 90/90 board goal for two consecutive years, where 90 percent of the students achieved meets/exceeds status on the state assessment in reading and math. In 2010, Addams was recognized as a top 100 high-performing schools in Illinois. In 2007, Mead was recognized in the top 50 high-performing middle schools in the Chicago suburbs.
Mark Weichel, EdD, is assistant superintendent for teaching and learning at Westside Community Schools in Omaha, Nebraska. With experience as a high school and district administrator and a junior high teacher, he specializes in leadership, systems, and strategies to enhance student learning through PLCs.
Dr. Weichel has been instrumental in guiding schools and districts in PLC implementation. Under his leadership, Westside has been recognized for its collaboration, innovation, and technology integration. Before joining Westside, he played a key leadership role in PLC development at Papillion-La Vista Public Schools, where his work contributed to national recognition.
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You will receive a certificate of participation within six weeks after the event concludes.
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