WASHINGTON COUNTY, Utah

At the Nov. 11 working session, Heritage Elementary showcased a Professional Learning Community example the board called "remarkable." Heritage staff described a targeted classroom and home practice approach that set a goal for all kindergartners to know letter names and sounds by Oct. 31. The presenter said teachers used motions tied to sounds, family practice, and a celebration system ("wig" recognition) to motivate students.

The school reported that after several weeks of instruction and family engagement, 97 percent of students met the identified goal. Board members praised the teachers and said the approach could be shared as a model for other elementary PLCs.

The board thanked Heritage staff and asked for the results and replication details to be distributed to other schools.