NM PED 2026 Literacy and Humanities Summer Conference

Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) are intended to strengthen instruction and improve student outcomes, yet many schools experience them as routine meetings rather than meaningful professional learning. In this session, you will explore how to transform PLCs into authentic spaces for reflection, collaboration, and instructional growth through the use of Critical Friends Group protocols.

You will learn how structured dialogue, inquiry-based protocols, and a culture of trust can move your meetings beyond updates and logistics toward deep professional learning focused on teaching and student success. The session highlights practical strategies for facilitating productive conversations, analyzing instructional practice, and creating PLC structures that are truly worth your time. Through examples and interactive discussion, you will leave with the tools to implement Critical Friends approaches in your own school, fostering a collaborative environment where educators challenge, support, and learn from one another to drive lasting instructional improvement.