Introduction The Westfield School District's 2010-2015 Strategic Plan, when finalized, will represent the input of more than 475 community members who responded to a fall 2009 survey, followed by two intense meetings of the Strategic Planning Council, which was represented by Board members, administrators, teachers, parents and community members. The gathering of information, priorities and opinions from all segments of the district's stakeholders has taken place to determine what is important to the community at large. Thus far, the Strategic Planning Council's insights and hard work have been woven into 3 major segments: The district's mission statement, beliefs and goals. During the summer, Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Margaret Dolan, will work with Central Staff and the Long Range Planning Committee to finalize the action steps that will support the goals. The foundation for the action steps were built during two Strategic Planning Council meetings in February and March 2010. The action steps will be further refined over the summer and introduced to the Board and the public in September. Following is the framework of the 2010-2015 Strategic Plan:
WESTFIELD PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT'S Mission The Westfield Public School District, in cooperation with family and community, prepares all students to reach their highest potential and to become productive, well-balanced and responsible citizens in a global society through educational programs that respect individual differences and diversity.
Beliefs We believe excellence in education includes: A curriculum that has the breadth and depth to challenge all learners; An acceptance and demonstration of core values of mutual respect, responsibility, caring and integrity; An emphasis on understanding and appreciating cultural differences and similarities.
We believe our students learn best when: They are in an environment where they feel physically, emotionally and intellectually secure; They are appropriately motivated to achieve their greatest potential as individuals; They are provided access to a wide variety of opportunities supported by a partnership of family, school, peers and community.
We believe the role of parents is: To provide for the physical and emotional needs of their children so that they come to school ready to learn; To be effective partners with the school by advocating for their children when appropriate and guiding their children to be their own best advocates as they advance through the school system; To teach their children through example to conduct themselves with integrity, honor and respect for others while achieving their personal best.
We believe the role of staff is: To be knowledgeable in their content area and highly skilled in instructional methods which engage all learners; To provide a safe and respectful environment that values learning; To continually pursue professional development that enhances instruction.
We believe the role of the community is: To provide a safe and welcoming place for students to congregate or participate in organized events after school and on weekends. To support and promote a positive social and emotional environment for its citizens. To partner financially and through in-kind services to support the education of our students.
We will provide curriculum, instruction and programs to prepare our students with 21st century skills to succeed in a global society. We will foster an environment of mutual respect and integrity, and educate students to become responsible and caring adults.
We will maximize the efficient use of district resources and funding opportunities.
GOAL 4 - COMMUNICATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT We will improve communication and community engagement between the school district and all stakeholders.
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September 9, 2010
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