"Raise the Bar" Book Study - EDC-X708Z
Course Description
Credit Validation for DoDEA Participants Only
This course invites participants to explore the evolving mission of public education through a structured book study focused on the foundational principles of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs). Participants will examine intervention strategies, implementation practices, and systemic approaches that contribute to sustained school improvement and student success. Through guided reflection, discussion, and collaboration, participants will analyze real-world case studies, investigate high-performing school systems, and develop actionable plans to strengthen their own school communities. This course includes attendance at the “Raise the Bar” introduction session in Peachtree City, Georgia (July 14–17, 2025), followed by six virtual book study sessions between September 10, 2025 and March 25, 2026.
Learner Outcomes
- Analyze case studies to understand the transformation from underperformance to sustained academic excellence
- Investigate systemic implementation strategies and shared practices across high-performing schools and districts
- Apply learned concepts to develop an action plan focused on closing achievement gaps and enriching school culture
Course Details
Number of Units: 2.0 graduate level extension credit(s) in semester hours
Who Should Attend: This course provides continuing education for DoDEA Participants.
University of San Diego – Academic Credit Information
The University of San Diego partners with this program to offer graduate-level academic credit. To receive credit, participants must first register and complete coursework through the external program provider.
Please Note: USD does not provide course materials, manage instruction, or assign grades. All coursework is evaluated by the program’s instructor or coordinator.
Transcript Process: Final grades submitted by the program provider will initiate the transcript process. Grades should be submitted within 7 days of the official course end date or the course enrollment deadline—whichever comes last. Participants are responsible for ensuring their mailing address is accurate and up to date in their USD student account to avoid delays in transcript delivery.
Transcript Delivery Timeline:
- U.S. addresses: 2–3 weeks
- International addresses: 3–4 weeks