Positive Learning Communities

Positive Learning Communities creates social emotional teaching tools that are effective, engaging, and easy to implement. We support teachers with leveled curriculum and lesson plans (elementary scope and sequence), anti-bullying and character development, posters for school climate and PBIS, visual supports and manipulatives for students with special needs, and empowering group activities for teens. PLC is a joyful partnership between Teresa Dooley-Smith, an ASHA-certified Speech/Language Pathologist, Brian Smith, an actor, director, classroom teacher, and member of the Actors’ Equity Association, and Lynn Yanis, an educational writer and graphic designer. Through 30 years building an innovative clinical and educational practice, Brian and Teri developed and implemented dynamic programming that used acting and rehearsal as a platform for engaging students, building character, and strengthening social skills. Their approach was strikingly effective-building compassion in schools and classrooms across their home state, and sparking an enthusiastic following among teachers and families. School and district administrators noted that their work succeeded where so many other approaches had failed. Educational leaders increasingly recognized that ALL students need social and emotional competency to be able to attend school, engage in learning, and be included and successful in community life.