Katzenmeyer and Moller (2001) emphasize the role of teacher leaders in professional learning communities (PLCs)
with the overarching goal of student learning. The success of PLCs requires principals and other school administrators
to share power, authority, and decision- making with teachers. Another dimension is the identification of student
needs, followed by the development and implementation of instructional strategies to address these needs. A
supportive culture for PLCs requires time, financial resources, constructive feedback, and recognition of improved
professional practices. In addition, successful use of PLCs requires that staff receive sufficient and consistent training
to develop an understanding of the purpose and power of the PLCs. When empowered teacher leaders facilitate the
implementation of PLCs, schools can be transformed and student learning increased. These PLCs lead to participatory
decision-making, a shared sense of purpose, collaborative work, and joint responsibility for outcomes (Muijs & Harris,
2003). Reason and Reason (2007) add, “Creating a professional learning community encourages teams of teacher
leaders to help one another grow and evolve as leaders and learners” (p. 39).