Unlike Mr. bin Laden, the blogger was not operating from a remote location. It turns out he is a 21-year-old American named Samir Khan who produces his blog from his parents� home in North Carolina, where he serves as a kind of Western relay station for the multimedia productions of violent Islamic groups.I think there�s a lot to think about there (a whole lot), but it also reminded me of something someone said at a recent convening I attended. I don�t mean to offend anyone with the following statement, but I think it�s also worth thinking about. They made the statement that the most successful Professional Learning Community they knew of was Al Qaeda. They have a passion for their subject, are trying to meet a perceived need, have individual cells that are operating both independently and in conjunction to try to achieve their goals, make effective use of technology, and have a strong belief they can change the world.
The point this person was making was two-fold (I think). First, that PLC�s aren�t necessarily a good thing in and of themselves - even if they�re successful - it depends on their purpose and goals. So as we utilize PLC�s in our schools, we need to keep in mind that the goal is not successful PLC�s, the goal is student learning and growth.
And second, that a small group of people with passion, commitment, and a belief they can make a difference can change the world. If our PLC�s operate with those same attributes and beliefs, then why can�t we change our schools � and the world - for the better? This brings to mind two of my favorite quotes,
I think as we work on our school's vision and implementing PLC's, we need to continue to ask, "Why not?"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.
� Margaret Mead
Some men see things as they are and ask "Why?"
I dream things that never were and ask, "Why not?"
� Robert Kennedy
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