[speedgibson] Speed Gibson: District 281 Strategic Plan - Part 2

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Posted by Speed Gibson:
District 281 Strategic Plan - Part 2
http://speedgibson.powerblogs.com/posts/1218258122.shtml


   With the Mission, Vision, and Core Values established in [1]Part 1,
   it's time for the specifics. They are organized as five priorities,
   each with component 4-6 goals. The first three largely concern the
   school district itself.
   Priority #1: Enrich and accelerate academic achievement.
    A. Raise expectations and increase academic rigor for all students.
    B. Monitor student growth and design educational plans to accelerate
       achievement.
    C. Reduce race-based and poverty-based achievement gaps.
    D. Increase the percentage of students prepared for post-secondary
       opportunities.
    E. Provide all students opportunities in fine arts, activities,
       athletics, and specialized programs (i.e., IB, AP).

   Most of this is what any District should continually try to do. I do
   look forward to how this will be measured.
   Point C stands out. The wording is a little awkward, implying that
   race and poverty cause lower achievement, but I like its boldness:
   Reduce the gaps. Don't just study, don't just identify, don't just
   analyze. Just do it. Get those kids - all kids - an education.
   Priority #2: Provide high quality, engaging teaching that challenges
   every student.
    A. Attract, develop, support, and retain exceptional teachers and
       staff.
    B. Provide innovative and research-based methods, materials, programs
       and technology.
    C. Establish clear expectations at every level and insist upon
       results.
    D. Provide more frequent observation and evaluation of teaching
       practices.

   Again, I applaud the daring, especially point C, but there are
   significant matters of state regulations and union contracts here.
   Priority #3: Cultivate learning environments characterized by mutual
   respect and personal responsibility.
    A. Improve students' sense of belonging at school.
    B. Ensure a safe and orderly learning environment.Minimize classroom
       disruptions that interfere with learning.
    C. Encourage and help families partner with schools to ensure student
       success.

   Again, this is largely what any district should be about. But again, a
   daring point C: discipline.
   This is a pretty tall order: closing achievement gaps, insisting on
   results, and discipline. It's more than many other such plans have
   laid out. If successful, it would vault the Robbinsdale district back
   into the top five in the state, where it once was.
   Next post, I'll finish with Priorities 4 and 5 that address the
   community.

References

   1. http://speedgibson.powerblogs.com/posts/1217999597.shtml