CLERMONT – East Ridge Middle School has been recognized for its sustained success in raising student achievement partly due to its investment in continuing learning for the educators on campus. As a result, the school has been named a Model Professional Learning Community (PLC) at Work^®.

East Ridge Middle, located in Clermont, is the second Lake County public school to achieve the designation. Seminole Springs Elementary was named a Model PLC at Work in 2023, and the district was designated in 2021.

PLCs are schools and districts where educators recognize that the key to improved learning for students is ongoing, job-embedded learning for the adults who serve those students. The PLC at Work process calls upon educators to focus on learning, build a collaborative culture and create a results orientation.

“This achievement is a true testament to the dedication and hard work of our staff and students,” said Jamie Sidoruk, principal of East Ridge Middle School, which has earned an A grade from the state every year since 2017.

“I am incredibly proud to be a part of a team that consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that ALL students are learning and are committed to collaborate, share, and support each other along this journey,” he said. “This recognition not only highlights our commitment to excellence but also showcases the exceptional teamwork and collaboration that exists within our school community. It is truly special to not only be recognized as an AVID National Demonstration School, but now also a Model PLC School for Lake County. Go Spartans!”

AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination), is a college-readiness system that helps narrow the achievement gap between high-performing and lower-performing students. AVID National Demonstration Schools are selected through a rigorous application process, screening and review, which includes a site visit. East Ridge Middle earned the distinction in 2014 and it was revalidated in 2017.

Schools are recognized as PLCs based on strict criteria, including demonstration of a commitment to PLC concepts, implementation of these concepts for at least three years, and clear evidence of improved student learning over that period. Once measurable results can be seen, the school must explain its practices, structures, and culture and submit its application for consideration by the PLC Review Committee.

According to the Champions of PLC at Work^®, educators in the schools and districts selected for this recognition have shown “a sustained commitment to helping all of their students achieve at high levels. They have been willing to alter the structure and culture of the organization to reflect their commitment. We applaud them and congratulate them for achieving this very significant milestone on the never-ending PLC journey.”