A strategic plan is a forward-looking document that sets a framework for an organization’s goals and actions, and how they will achieve them. The Tumwater School District is in its early stages to create and clarify its vision, mission and values. Such an undertaking requires a comprehensive approach to consider the district’s strengths, challenges and community values.
Assistant Superintendent Meagan Dawson Ed. D. brings experience and enthusiasm to this process. Previously, Dawson was part of the Bellingham School District that had a strategic plan in place. She watched and participated in meeting annual goals, receiving grants that supported programs and experiencing the energy that moved the district forward. Now the Tumwater School District has begun its journey for an up-to-date strategic plan.
The Power of a Strategic Plan for Tumwater Schools
The intent of long-range strategic planning is clear: getting people, processes, programs, and structures on the same page, going in the same direction, realizing a shared vision and achieving common goals.
“I am excited that we are going through this process,” says Dawson. “Everyone in the community can have an opportunity to contribute thoughts, ideas and values about public education. It’s an amazing process to listen to each other and get to know each other,” she adds.
A strategic plan looks at key areas of improvement and growth, while aligning with educational best practices and community needs. There is a timeline and key performance indicators (KPIs) are clearly defined. Ultimately, as all involved understand the power of a strategic plan in place, people go to work each day knowing their purpose and get to be part of reaching goals.
Tumwater Schools include over 6,500 students, 420 certified teachers and over 1,000 staff including substitutes. Then there are all the families, school partners like Boys & Girls Club, and the surrounding community. It is quite a large group!
To get help with this immense project, the district has hired Performance Fact, a culturally diverse team of professionals with expertise in organizational development, educational leadership, teaching and research. The people at Performance Fact are project managers to help keep the process on track. “I am happy we are using this company,” says Dawson, adding, “They have been responsive and supportive and have gathered much data to get us started.”
Strategic Planning Groups Being Formed for Tumwater Schools
At this time there are three main groups being brought together. The Planning Core Team (CPT) includes a cross-section of participants including students, teachers, board members, and family members are invited. The second group is the Instructional Focus Team (IFT), composed of teachers, counselors, instructional aides, administrators and district-level educational services staff. The third is the Alignment Team (ALT) that includes key decision makers and participants from groups in the community. Already 35 people or organizations have joined the ALT, including Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County and South Puget Sound Community College.
These teams are created to find alignment, the first step toward making the planned future a reality. “Alignment is the process of reaching mutual understanding about common goals. It gives shared meaning to the work of the school system, thereby making the successful accomplishment of the goals of the organization more likely,” according to Performance Fact.
The Tumwater School District’s strategic plan is being designed to provide a roadmap for creating an inclusive, supportive, and high-performing educational environment that prepares every student for success in an ever-changing world. By focusing on academic excellence, equity, well-being, community engagement, and operational efficiency, the district can ensure long-term success for all students.
You can learn more about the strategic planning process for Tumwater School District and learn how you can get involved by visiting the website. Now is the time to have your voice heard and get involved by contacting Tumwater District Schools.
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