PLC - Spring 26 - SO Leaders

This professional learning community (PLC) is one important part of MA DESE’s statewide initiative to strengthen early literacy preparation through evidence-based and culturally and linguistically sustaining practices. Designed specifically for educator preparation program leaders, the PLC brings together deans, program directors, and other administrators responsible for programmatic and financial decision-making within licensure programs.

Facilitated by EdLighten Solutions and The Reading Circuit, this PLC provides a structured, collegial forum for leaders to examine DESE’s Early Literacy Approval Criteria (May 2024) and to plan for strategic alignment across coursework, clinical experiences, staffing, and resource allocation. 

Participants will engage with peers to explore implementation considerations, institutional impacts, and decision points necessary to ensure programs are positioned for approval and long-term sustainability.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us!

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PLC Sessions

PLC sessions will be held throughout the Spring and Summer of 2026.  Please visit this page for updates.

Session Objectives:

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Session Objectives:

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Session Objectives:

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Session Objectives:

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MA DESE Resources

Mass Literacy – Statewide effort to empower educators with the evidence-based practices for literacy that all students need.

Early Literacy in Educator Preparation – Resources for Ed Prep Program Faculty including Early Literacy Program Criteria so that all teacher candidates have access to information about literacy and language acquisition that is based in current evidence. 

Early Literacy Observation Form – A form to support educator preparation supervisors to observe and provide high-quality feedback to teacher candidates.

Supporting Culturally and Linguistically Sustaining Practices
• Center for Instructional Support Guidance and Resources
• Center for Instructional Support Video Library
• Pathways to Equity in Early Literacy from Mass Literacy
• The Foundations of Early Literacy as a Tool for Equity – Webinar
• Culturally Responsive Practices in Early Literacy – Webinar
• Early Literacy Instruction for Multilingual Learners – Webinar
• DESE’s Educational Vision

Professional Learning Community Members

The following PLC community members have chosen to have their information shared.  Please reach out and collaborate.

  • Leandra Elion, Tufts University Lecturer, The Reading Circuit President, Focus: Dyslexia and Equitable Opportunities
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