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.

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

 

Course Options

Course Date Units Price

What You Will Learn

  • 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

Instructors

Professional development courses offered by the University of San Diego’s Division of Professional & Continuing Education are taught by faculty that possess a depth and breadth of academic and real-world professional experience.

Why USD?

The Professional and Continuing Education program nurtures key partnerships on the local, national, and international level. The goal is to better serve working professionals who seek to enhance or build their careers and help achieve their highest value and potential. Contact us today to learn more.

Informative Stats and Facts

600+

High-quality, career-building courses to choose from

50+

In-depth, innovative, and relevant topics

25+

Career advancing certificates

Learning Method Information

Courses offer a convenient, yet rigorous style of learning that allows you to structure your education to suit your schedule while keeping you on pace toward achieving your educational.

Credit Validation

The University of San Diego’s Division of Professional and Continuing Education offers graduate-level extension credit for work completed in trainings, workshops, conferences, induction, credentials, and other professional development programs not offered directly by USD. Complete one of the above and a member of our division will help you earn credit for your hard work and dedication to continuing your education.

Key Benefits of Credit Validation Courses

Make Your Work Count

Earn credit for your previous work in trainings, workshops, and conferences through a simple process.

Advance Faster

Save money by earning credit for work you completed and get one step closer to salary advancement.

Work Towards a Degree

Many receiving institutions may accept credits towards degree programs, giving you a head start in earning a graduate degree.