Plan Board Approved December 11, 2007

Vision

(the best future state for SPUSD students)

Our students reach their individual potential by developing intellectual abilities, emotional maturity, unique talents, love of learning and responsibility for their own learning. They confidently participate in the complex, global environment.

Mission

(what the District will do to attain the vision)

The SPUSD will provide:

• challenging, rigorous and relevant curriculum that prepares students for college and the world of work.
• formative experiences that develop the physical, social, emotional, ethical, linguistic, creative and cognitive pathways of learning.
• a commitment to recognizing and valuing the abilities of all students and to providing them the encouragement to reach their full potential.
• effective teaching in an environment that is intellectually stimulating, as well as physically and emotionally safe for students and adults.
• qualified, caring and motivated adults who are inspiring and encouraging.
• A professional environment that attracts, supports and retains the highest quality professionals in every position in the District.

Core Values

(underlying beliefs)

• All students can learn.
• Parent and family involvement in the student's education is critical to the success of students, of individual schools, and of the district as a whole.
• Building confidence and character are equally important to academic achievement.
• Mutually respectful relationships are essential in a diverse organization and community.
• Clear communication between administrators, teachers, parents, students and the community is essential to building trust.
• Timely and appropriate responsiveness to students, parents and families is essential.
• The work of all employees is indispensable to the well-being and success of students.

Operating Principles

(agreements to guide SPUSD professional work)

• We use evidence to focus on results.
• We act ethically and with integrity, and treat everyone with courtesy and respect.
• The equitable and equal distribution of resources (time, expertise and revenue) is considered during the decision making process.
• The boundaries defining organizational roles and responsibilities are clearly delineated and honored.
• Individual and team accountability is indispensable to our work and is supported through the evaluation process with clearly defined and achievable goals.
• We confer and collaborate with our community partners on issues of mutual interest.
• We provide efficient and effective services.
• Professional development focused on district priorities is offered in a systematic and timely manner to all employees.

Goals 2007-2010

(accomplishments to be achieved to advance the vision)

• Curriculum Goals Expand the use of instructional strategies to increase relevance of the curriculum and encourage the student’s active engagement in and love for learning.
• Differentiate instruction in order to respond to individual student instructional levels.
• Expand and refine the K-12 writing program that develops age appropriate skills and attitudes, provides meaningful feedback to all students and integrates writing across the curriculum.
• Support the implementation of the renewed K-12 science program, in coordination with the math program, to increase scientific literacy and the application of science in everyday life.
• Develop a research - and evidenced-based homework policy and grade level guidelines.
• Identify and deliver performing and visual arts experiences that develop individual talents and creativity, engage the imagination, and encourage an appreciation for the arts.
• Expand world language experiences for students who desire to gain proficiency in speaking, reading and writing a language other than English.
• Provide opportunities throughout the curriculum to support students in being competent and confident when taking assessments. Professional Development Goals
• Develop a K-12 collaborative approach to guidance and counseling.
• Establish a systematic professional development program for all employee groups, addressing identified key priority areas.
• Provide multiple learning opportunities to strengthen the professional performance of all employees.
• Develop internship opportunities with local academic/research organizations to enhance the teachers’ curriculum development.
• Strengthen teacher’s skills and knowledge through regional, data-driven collaborations among K-12, and higher educational institutions.

Technology Goal

• Implement the District Technology Plan to improve accessibility, reliability, technical assistance, skill acquisition and professional development.

Roles and Responsibilities Goals

• Develop protocols and agreements that delineate the roles and responsibilities for site administrators, district level administrators, teachers and staff.
• Engage in inclusive decision making in order to involve stakeholders in shaping the future of the District.