Central Unified principals report significant gains in student achievement through Solution Tree

The Central Unified Board of Trustees meeting on May 13, 2025, focused on the progress and future plans for professional learning communities (PLCs) within the district, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among educators to enhance student achievement.

During the meeting, several principals shared their experiences with the Solution Tree partnership, which aims to improve instructional practices through structured professional development. Principal Shalon Shepherd from Biola Elementary highlighted the growth in teacher efficacy at her school, noting an increase from 44% to 83% of teachers feeling confident in delivering standards-based instruction over the past year. This improvement is attributed to the ongoing support from their Solution Tree coach, which has helped teachers collaborate effectively despite challenges posed by single-grade classrooms.

Principal Christian Ginger from Han Fon Tilly reported a similar trend, with 100% of teachers now feeling confident in their instructional practices, marking a significant increase in teacher efficacy. He emphasized the importance of clarity in teaching standards and the role of data analysis in driving instructional decisions.

El Capitan Principal Patricia McCurley shared that her school has seen substantial growth in student proficiency, with projected increases in both math and reading scores. The collaborative efforts of the PLCs have led to a decrease in the failure rate among students, showcasing the positive impact of structured professional development.

The board discussed the continuation of the Solution Tree contract, which is set to be placed on the agenda for action on May 27. Some concerns were raised regarding feedback from certain schools, particularly about the relevance of the PLC model for elective teachers and the need for tailored support. Trustee Carrillo emphasized the importance of addressing these concerns while maintaining the momentum of the PLC initiative.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing evaluation and refinement of the PLC process, ensuring that all educators, including those in specialized subjects, can benefit from collaborative practices aimed at improving student outcomes. The administration expressed a desire to continue this work into the next school year, reinforcing the belief that sustained effort is necessary for meaningful change in educational practices.