General+Information

**__ PROFESSIONAL LEARNING COMMUNITY __**
 * __ FASHION/INTERIOR DESIGN __**

One of the desires of CTE teachers is to connect them with other teachers who are in the same field. Typically there are only 1 or 2 teachers in a specific field in a school as compared with many teachers in academic fields. The objective is to have several in-person meetings each year, share events, and communicate electronically on a regular basis. We are considering the teacher connections to be a PLC (Professional Learning Community).
 * //Why are we doing this?//**

We began forming seven PLC groups, one of which is Fashion Design/Merchandising and Interior Design, during a half day conference on March 2, 2010. A Culinary Arts PLC began work early in the school year and served as a model for the other PLCs (fashion/interior design, engineering, business, digital media arts, child development, and construction). We have administrators assigned to each of the PLCs to contact potential members and help coordinate the efforts. At this time we have decided to include those who teach interior design at the high schools but only those who teach fashion design and/or merchandising at the community colleges.
 * //Why are we forming a group of Fashion Design/Merchandising and Interior Design teachers?//**

Some of the advantages are similar to academic subjects and some might be unique to CTE.
 * //What are some of the things that PLCs can do?//**
 * Brainstorm ideas with others who teach fashion design/merchandising
 * Look for ways to NOT reinvent the wheel
 * Learn tricks of the trade that make your work easier
 * Compare the curriculum, equipment, assessments, projects that you use
 * Discuss best practices and dealing with problems
 * Observe others in action
 * Find ways to get more financial support
 * Organize local competitions or combined programs for students throughout OC
 * Share your passion with others in the field

// Where can I get more information? //
 * The list of names of high school CTE teachers and ROP teachers throughout Orange County can be found at [|www.cteoc.com].
 * One form of electronic communication that we will use for all the CTEoc PLC groups can be found at http://cteoc.wikispaces.com . You may sign in to post information, or even as a guest you may look at information already posted.

Past Advisory Boards and Meetings Agendas/Summary Notes: