Professional learning communities (PLCs) have become one of the most talked about ideas in education today. Many K-12 schools are working to become PLCs in the hope that student learning will improve when adults commit themselves to talking collaboratively about teaching and learning and then take action that will improve student learning and achievement. A progressive school must understand and practice the 5 disciplines of a learning organization to be a true PLC, and that leadership plays a significant role in the ability of a school to become a PLC that enhances student learning. The question explored in this study was "To what extent will the systemic implementation of a PLC impact student achievement of African American students in Grades 9-12 at the research site in the academic areas of English/language arts and reading?" Student achievement of African American students in Grades 9-12 at the research site in the academic areas of English/language arts and reading increased following the action research intervention. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]