The school district published a draft version of its strategic plan in the spring, and the public was then asked to weigh in on the plan. Newsletter and brochure printing can often help reach out to respondents in cases like this.
About 1,200 people responded and the board took their comments into consideration when creating the final version. The main goals proposed in the plan are related to innovation, academic excellence, innovation and community engagement.
Parents and students will notice changes inspired by the plan when they return to school in the fall. According to Lori Glover, the school board president, the plan was due to be updated a long time ago but the board waited until the new superintendent, Krestin Bahr, took over.
Public opinion had a big effect on how the plan was developed and several of the respondents feel that Pioneer Elementary should be used as an example. One commenter, Shelby Stordahl, said to GigHarborNow.org:
“I think the priority should definitely be the students. I think Pioneer is an awesome exploration into that. They dive into teaching to everyone’s different learning styles, putting the students first and going past just bookwork and just sitting down for the normal class.”
Another common theme among respondents was a call for transparency when measuring the outcomes and success of the plan.