Wednesday, October 14, 2020 - 12:28 pm
Superintendent Dana Monogue provided a first draft of the updated District Strategy Map and led a discussion about District and Board goals at the Board of Education regular meeting on Monday, Oct. 12.
Board president Annette Ashley presided over the meeting at the District Services Center, while other Board members participated remotely. The School Board has been meeting virtually since mid-March.
Monogue reviewed the District's mission, vision and goal and noted the draft was reviewed by District administrators, building leaders and Board president Annette Ashley. She noted the current context is weighing heavily so the District is strengthening its care for all stakeholders. She also said with capacity stretched thin it is important the District narrow its intentions and focus on a few key goals and initiatives.
After noting the District's vision is inclusive, innovative and inspiring schools where everyone thrives, she also stressed the District aims to be a Great Place to Learn, Great Place to Work and Great School District.
Monogue reviewed the six competencies that make up a Portrait of a Graduate and noted every student should develop them while in the District. She reviewed the District's commitment to equity and thanked the School Board for passing an equity statement that acts as a compass for the District. She also reviewed MCPASD's nine Equity Non-Negotiables.
Monogue noted a Great Place to Learn means students love coming to school, know that they are loved and valued, and provide them with opportunities and experiences that will help them be successful in whatever life path they select after they leave the District. She also noted the District and Board will focus on student literacy over the next five years to ensure at or above grade-level proficiency in reading for all students.
The District wants to attract, retain and develop a talented and committed workforce. The District also wants its staff demographics to look similar to the student demographics. Finally, the District wants staff to feel valued, supported and engaged in the important work done with students, Monogue said.
MCPASD also valued stakeholder feedback and engagement. Monogue noted while the pandemic has presented challenges, the District will continue to work hard to maintain and improve the community's trust.
Board members spent approximately 10 minutes offering feedback. The Board noted the strategy map drives accountability for the District and that it should help administration with decision-making. He liked that the draft was more specific and targeted. The Board suggested it may be necessary to have a more immediate focus on re-establishing trust with families due to the pandemic. Finally, the Board worried some goals may be so lofty as to be unattainable for some students.
Monogue noted District officials used the pandemic lens when looking at goals and tried to focus on an important few because also worried about taking on too much. Monogue noted she will incorporate comments and feedback and it will be brought back for an action item at the Oct. 26 meeting.