Process

Recognizing the importance of having all voices represented in the process to plan for the future of our schools, HMH and WCPS have engaged students, parents, staff, and community members in the strategic planning process by: 

Creating a 50-member design team consisting of students, parents, staff, and community members to drive the strategic planning process
 
​Holding a community forum on April 18, 2024, to provide stakeholders with an opportunity to participate in small group activities and discussions around topics related to the school system, the community, and public education in Washington County
 
Conducting an online WCPS Community Strategic Planning Survey from April 25-May 1, 2024, to gain additional broad input from the community
 
Conducting focus groups with students, staff, and community members, including visits to a range of elementary, middle, and high schools for the student focus groups 
 
Conducting one-on-one interviews with key curriculum and community stakeholders
 
Reviewing district academic performance and operational data

WCPS’ vision and mission lay the groundwork for the success of our school system.  They provide a clear direction and purpose, guide decision-making, and unite our learning community around common values and goals.  The vision and mission help ensure all efforts focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for students and the WCPS community.  

Our VISION represents where we want to be; our aspired state.

Cultivating learning communities that spark curiosity, ignite creativity, and inspire success.

Our MISSION indicates how we will attain our vision.  It’s our daily purpose as an organization.

WCPS educates and empowers each student to achieve independence and contribute to a diverse and evolving society. 

Our CORE VALUES promote positive school culture and guide the behavior and actions of our school communities. They promote a shared sense of purpose and help ensure the learning environment is consistent, supportive, and aligned with the mission and vision of WCPS.

• Academic Excellence: We will achieve academic excellence by setting high expectations and providing rigorous and innovative instruction for students to reach their full potential.  
   
• Engagement: We will actively and meaningfully engage in learning by encouraging curiosity, creativity, participation, and collaboration among students, educators, and the community.
   
• Growth Mindset: We will promote a growth mindset that celebrates effort, perseverance, and continuous improvement by nurturing students' belief in their ability to learn and succeed.
   
• Belonging: We will cultivate a culture of belonging where every student feels valued, respected, and supported by creating a safe and welcoming environment.
   
• Wellness: We will support the well-being of our students and staff by fostering physical, emotional, and social health through comprehensive services and a positive school climate.
   
• Community: We will actively engage with families, communities, and partners by building strong connections and collaborative relationships that enhance student learning and success.
   

Our PORTRAIT OF A GRADUATE was developed by a group of parents, students, business leaders, community stakeholders, and school staff.  It indicates the skills and competencies each WCPS student needs to be successful following graduation from high school. 

• Content Literacy: involves the ability to understand, analyze, and evaluate information within specific subject areas (e.g., science, history, mathematics, language arts).
   

• Critical Thinking: the process of objectively analyzing, evaluating, and synthesizing information to form reasoned judgements and decisions.
   
• Communication: encompasses the ability express ideas clearly and effectively through various mediums such as speaking, writing and nonverbal communication.
   
• Citizenry: understanding and fulfilling one’s rights, duties, and responsibilities as a member of a community
   

Our PRIORITIES AND GOALS are the focus areas that will ensure successful implementation of the strategic plan. 

• Student Success: WCPS will engage each student in authentic, rigorous learning experiences to prepare them with the skills, knowledge, and habits to maximize their full potential.
   

• Access and Opportunities: WCPS will identify and address barriers that impact student learning and success.
   
• Culture, Safety, and Wellness: WCPS will create a safe, engaging, and supportive learning environment for each student and staff member
   
• Community Engagement: WCPS will partner with the community to foster robust and meaningful connections, creating opportunities for each stakeholder to feel valued, heard, and actively engaged in support of student success.  

WCPS staff has provided updates about the strategic plan to the Board of Education at public meetings held in April, May, and June.  The final plan will be considered by the Board in July 2024.