"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 – Graduate-Level Extension Credit Information

The University of San Diego partners with this program to offer graduate-level extension credit(s) in semester hours through the Credit Validation Program. To earn units, participants must register for and successfully complete coursework through the external program provider.

Credits earned through USD’s Credit Validation Program are widely accepted by many school districts and universities across the United States for purposes such as license renewal, required professional development hours, short-term skill building, salary advancement, credentialing, and potential advanced degree pathways.

These units do not apply toward a master’s or higher degree program at the University of San Diego; however, they may be transferable to advanced degree programs (e.g., MA, EdD, PhD) at other institutions that accept external graduate-level credits.

Participants are responsible for confirming acceptance, transcript requirements, deadlines, and applicability of units with their employing district or intended institution prior to enrollment.

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