Today our guest is Dr. Jeremy Koselak, the Director for Professional Learning in Academy District 20 in Colorado Springs. We talk with Dr. Koselak about the importance and critical aspects of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) in relation to academic and social/emotional wellness for educators and students. He explains that while PLCs have traditionally focused on academics, they have recently become more holistic. Dr. Koselak emphasizes the need for structures to facilitate collaboration, but also the importance of being intentional about what topics are discussed during these meetings. He stresses the need for a more holistic, team-based approach to supporting students, and highlights the key role that data plays in driving PLC work.

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Dr. Jeremy Koselak is an author, researcher, consultant, and the current Director for Professional Learning in Academy District 20. He is a former high school teacher, interventionist, and district coordinator for RTI, MTSS, PLC and school improvement. Dr. Koselak cofounded a highly successful tutoring center at a large, diverse urban high school, which was featured in several articles and books.