Tim Brown, Solution Tree
COURAGE TO EXPLORE, THE ADVENTURE BEGINS!

Courage does not always roar.  Sometimes it is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, "I will try again tomorrow."  We hear lots of "roaring" about how to improve our schools.  In truth, school improvement comes from teachers who return each day to address the needs of students.  Daily, they show the courage to engage students with high expectations and commitment to learning.

Educators who are part of a Professional Learning Community understand that "roaring," without collaboration, collective inquiry, action, goals, and a shared mission, is only rhetoric - wheel spinning with no traction.  In his keynote address, Mr. Brown will celebrate and reinforce what can be accomplished when we build on the skill and the will of our fellow teachers.  Sharing the responsibility for the success of all learners is an adventure we must have the courage to undertake.

Tim Brown is a recently retired elementary school principal from Springfield, Missouri.  Under his leadership, his high poverty school (87% free or reduced lunch) achieved amazing results,  becoming recognized as one of Missouri's Most Improved Schools and an Exemplary Practices School.  Instituting the principles of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) Tim and his staff developed a variety of intervention strategies to respond to the unique needs of his students.

Tim's commitment to continuous school improvement has been evident at both elementary and secondary levels, resulting in his selection as Missouri's Distinguished Elementary Principal.  With his superb skill at creating positive school climates based on collaboration among educators, Tim now works with Solution Tree, helping other districts to create and sustain professional learning communities.