The purpose of this study is to analyze the professional learning community case,
Cottonwood Creek School, in America and get the policy implications to Korean educational
policy. For this purpose, first, the theory of professional learning community, especially the
historical development and characteristics, was examined. Secondly, the professional learning
community case, Cottonwood Creek School, was analyzed, based on the 5 properties of the
professional learning community, ① shared values and vision, ② collective learning and
application of learning, ③ supportive condition, ④ supportive and shared leadership, ⑤
shared personal practice, advocated by Hord, S.(1997).
The main findings of this study are as follows: First, the staff including principal need to
support the development of leadership of the people in charge of the school education and
nurture the collegial relationship with them. Secondly, Educational activities need to be done
not by individual approach but by collaborative approach, with hiring the instructional
guide. Thirdly, The vision and goal of school education need to be set up by participation
of all of the peoplel in school. Fouthly, The people in school need to be provided with the
sufficient time, space, money and communication system. Finally, The teachers need to open
their classrooms and educational activities frequently and autonomously.