Demystifying Professional Learning Communities ─ School Leadership at Its Best

Editors Hipp (leadership studies, Cardinal Stritch U.), Huffman (educational administration, U. of North Texas), and six co-authors define and outline the concept of professional learning communities (PLC), which they consider the best context for educators to continue improving their teaching skills. They also address how to establish PLCs, diagnostic and planning tools, the professional teaching and learning cycle, and a series of case studies. Annotation c2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Kristine Kiefer Hipp is a professor in the Doctorate in Leadership for the Advancement of Learning and Service program and District Administrative Licensure programs at Cardinal Stritch University. She also serves in the university's Leadership Center and coordinates leadership programs in Corciano, Italy. Her research interests and consulting involve leadership, professional learning communities, collective efficacy, and organizational and cultural change efforts. Jane Bumpers Huffman is associate professor of educational administration at the University of North Texas. Huffman served as a Visiting Scholar in 2009 at National Taiwan Normal University and has a research emphasis in professional learning communities, change management, leadership, and parent involvement.