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KINGSPORT, Tenn. – Dobyns-Bennett High School has been recognized by Solution Tree as a Model Professional Learning Community (PLC) at Work® School for sustained success in raising student achievement. Notably, Dobyns-Bennett is the only high school in Tennessee to earn the prestigious Model PLC at Work® School designation. The successful implementation of the PLC at Work® process was a major contributing factor in the school's improved student achievement of it. Dobyns-Bennett is one of approximately 600 schools and districts across the U.S. and Canada to receive this honor and one of just 16 schools in Tennessee. In addition, Kingsport City Schools earned three of those 16 recognitions with Adams Elementary School, Jefferson Elementary School, and Dobyns-Bennett all receiving the designation.
"I am proud to congratulate the entire Dobyns-Bennett community on this well-deserved recognition," said Dr. Chis Hampton, Kingsport City Schools Superintendent. "Being named Model PLC at Work® School signifies years of doing the necessary work to advance the learning of all students. Elements of this work have been going on for many years, but the current faculty have filled the gaps and improved structures in a manner that demonstrates excellence in the big ideas and best practices that we know improve learning outcomes. It is especially meaningful that Dobyns-Bennett is the first high school in Tennessee to earn full Model School status. Earning this status is a school-wide honor, but I want to celebrate the teachers who have worked so hard to refine their craft and most importantly improve learning for all students."
"Dobyns-Bennett High School is proud to be a community of continuous learning for both students and educators," said Dr. Brian Tate, Dobyns-Bennett High School Principal. "Our teachers have embraced and refined collaborative practices that ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed at high levels. I could not be prouder of our teachers' and administrators' unwavering commitment to using Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) to strategically improve instruction, strengthen student outcomes, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. This recognition is a testament to our educators' relentless focus on student learning, collaboration, and academic excellence."
PLCs are schools and districts in which educators recognize the key to improved learning for students is on-going, job-embedded learning for the adults serving those students. PLCs call upon educators to:
- Focus on learning.
- Build a collaborative culture.
- Create a results orientation.
Schools are recognized based on strict criteria, including demonstration of a commitment to the above PLC concepts, implementation of these concepts for at least three years, and clear evidence of improved student learning over that period. Once measurable results can be seen, the school must submit an application explaining its practices, structures, and culture for consideration by the PLC Review Committee.
Schools and districts selected for this recognition have shown a sustained commitment to helping all of their students achieve at high levels and have been willing to alter the structure and culture of the organization to reflect their commitment.
For more than 25 years, Solution Tree resources have helped K–12 teachers and administrators create schools where all children succeed.
Kingsport City Schools (KCS) is a student-focused, world-class public school district located in Kingsport, Tennessee, proudly serving students across Sullivan and Hawkins counties. The district comprises 13 schools, including a Pre-K facility, eight elementary schools, two middle schools, one high school, a high school program of choice, and an alternative learning program. With a total enrollment exceeding 7,600 students, KCS is dedicated to fostering educational excellence, empowering student success, and ensuring all students are college and career ready. To learn more, visit www.k12k.com, tune in to WCSK 90.3 FM, The Voice of KCS, or contact the KCS Administrative Support Center at (423) 378.2100. Stay connected by following us on Facebook (@kcsdistrict), Instagram (@kcs__district), and YouTube (@kcs__district).
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