Background & Development Process
Background
In 2018-2019, the district conducted a comprehensive self-study based on the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) 2020 Standards for Public Schools. The process involved analysis of a range of performance data as well as constituent surveys (including one conducted by Challenge Success), systematic reflection on the systems and structures that we use to serve students, and feedback from an external visiting team from NEASC. At that time, we identified three priority areas for growth:
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Social Emotional Wellness
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Curriculum Alignment
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Grading and Reporting
Although the COVID-19 pandemic created urgent needs that became a focus of our schools (remote and hybrid education, adapting to new safety measures, etc.), the district made substantial progress in all three priority areas between 2019-2022.
In 2021-2022, the district systematically reflected on the progress made toward addressing our identified priorities through summer reflection sessions and staff team feedback sessions, constituent surveys, an external Equity Audit through Curriculum Management Solutions, Inc. (CMSI), and three community dialogues (equity, social emotional wellness, curriculum & assessment). In June 2022, a working group composed of teachers, administrators, parents, and School Board members distilled the information into five priorities for our future focus (campus facilities; connected community; social-emotional learning; curriculum, instruction & assessment; and pre-kindergarten).
Community Dialogue - May 9, 2022: Navigating Creative Pathways
Community Dialogue - May 2, 2022: Visioning for Wellness
Community Dialogue - February 16, 2022 : Equity Audit Report
NEASC Decennial Report - March 2022
NWEA Data Discussion Slides [School Board Workshop] - December 6, 2021
NEASC Self-Reflection Report 2020
Challenge Success: The Well-Balanced Student Information and Resources
Presentation and Feedback
In fall 2022, the district gathered additional input and feedback through a community survey, and School Board meetings and workshops. In October, the School Board and District Leadership Team hosted a community informational workshop and discussion focusing on three of the five strategic priorities grounded in the Falmouth Public Schools Mission, Vision, and Beliefs & Practices (Connected Community, Social Emotional Learning, and Curriculum & Instruction). This presentation and feedback session was another important step before formally adopting our Strategic Vision. Access the presentation slides, survey feedback, and community discussion notes to learn more.
This Strategic Vision will be updated and adjusted annually, with a comprehensive review in 3-5 years.