This session is built around a simple idea: fewer steps, clearer focus. We’ll narrow the PLC process to two essential moves that keep attention on teaching and learning. The result is a more focused PLC that spends less time on process and more time on improving instruction.
Senior Administrator - PLC, Wake County Public Schools
Erin is a proud member of the Office of Professional Learning's PLC Team, dedicated to creating practical and impactful resources for professional learning communities. She joined Central Service in 2023 after 20 years of working in schools across North Carolina and New Hampshire... Read More →
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am EDT Room 17
Creating thriving educational environments requires more than effective systems or strong leadership; it begins with people. This session explores two essential, research-based dimensions of whole-school wellness often overlooked in school improvement efforts: the well-being of school principals and the sense of belonging experienced by students. Drawing on two qualitative studies in North Carolina schools, the researchers examine how principals’ personal, psychological, and professional wellness, combined with students’ sense of belonging, shape school climate, engagement, and achievement. Principals and school leaders are uniquely positioned to champion this work through daily practice, school culture, and strategic vision. This session provides practical tools, reflective practices, and real-world insights to help leaders cultivate schools where wellbeing is foundational for themselves, their staff, and their students alike.
Dr. Jennifer Lecorchick is an educational leader and speaker who redefines the metrics of student success by centering wellness and academic excellence within school cultures. Serving as an Assistant Principal within the Wake County Public School System, Dr. Lecorchick leverages more... Read More →
Educators are reaching breaking points in massive numbers and need meaning, clarity, and psychological safety. Leaders are buffers of energy and morale for groups they support. Safety and empowerment come from facilitating, not influencing the outcome when leading groups. This session invites leaders to examine how their mindsets either constrain or unlock the collective intelligence, resilience, and well-being of their teams. Grounded in the Teachers As Facilitators (Garmston & McKanders), this interactive session moves beyond strategies to focus on how leaders show up – especially in moments that matter most. Participants will experience practical shifts that increase psychological safety, deepen trust, and build more empowered, self-directed teams. Leaders will leave with tools and processes they can immediately apply to create environments where people feel seen, valued, and capable of doing their best work.
Devices are welcome. Both hard copy and digital handouts will be available.
Org Development & Inclusion Specialist, Become Better Global, LLC
Dr. Echols is an organizational development and human connection consultant, speaker, and facilitator with more than 20 years of experience supporting individuals, teams, and organizations. A former teacher, school counselor, and professional learning leader, he works across education... Read More →
Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:35pm - 2:35pm EDT Room 17
