Strategic Plan

(Draft 6/10/02)
(Developed and recommended by Strategic Planning Committee May 31-June 1, 2002)

Mission Statement
As a progressive, suburban school district, the Elkhorn Public Schools unites students, families and community in developing responsible, lifelong learners through educational excellence.

Governing Principles

The Elkhorn Public Schools believes:

• All students can learn.
• Human diversity is recognized and respected.
• Educators are vital contributors to the fulfillment of our mission.
• Respect of self and others is essential.
• Education is a shared responsibility among students, family, school district personnel and community.
• Schools provide an environment that nurtures, challenges and encourages individuals to reach their full potential.
• Schools promote appropriate personal, social, intellectual, emotional, and physical development of all students.
• Schools provide opportunities for individuals to acquire the necessary skills to become productive, responsible citizens.
• Quality education provides the foundation for life-long learning.
• Schools are committed to continuous improvement for the benefit of students.

Strategic Policy Statements

The Elkhorn Public Schools will:

• Provide personnel, facilities, and materials that promote continuous learning for students and staff in a fiscally responsible manner.
• Provide students with competence in basic academic skills prior to graduation.
• Include all parents/guardians in the education of their children.
• Adopt curriculum, instruction, assessment materials and mentors with provision for professional development prior to implementation.
• Treat all students, parents, community members and school personnel with dignity and respect.
• Provide a safe and caring environment for all students and staff members.
• Base educational decisions on the developmental needs of students.
• Provide comparable educational opportunities for all students.
• Make student learning the highest priority.

Strategic Objectives:

Continuing Objective -

1. The Elkhorn Public Schools will develop and maintain a facilities master plan for ongoing examination of and reaction to enrollment growth.
   

1999 Objectives -

1. The Elkhorn Public Schools will, through a systematic determination of needs, expand and/or revise curricular or instructional and professional development programs that increase opportunities for student learning.
   Curriculum Director hired; Curriculum Adoption Process - defined, 5 year cycle, implemented beginning in 2003; State Standard Assessment Program implemented using multiple measures; School improvement process based on student achievement data
2. The Elkhorn Public Schools will focus district leadership to more fully engage business and community resources to provide and expand student learning opportunities and to improve systematic communication between the district and its patrons.
   Over 22 partnerships established with assistance of the Elkhorn Public Schools Foundation; Junior Achievement programs started in each elementary building; District wide career days held.

2002 - Prioritized Objectives -

1. Create an interactive internal and external communication system between the district and its stakeholders incorporating all available channels.
2. Focus instructional and professional development programs to increase opportunities to meet the needs of all learners.
   

2002 - Objectives Receiving Consideration for the Future -

• Create a total environmental plan that includes professional growth opportunities and staff wellness, to retain and attract the highest quality staff.
• Provide technological hardware and training that will be integrated into all curricular areas.
• Increase opportunities for students, staff, and community to learn about diversity.
• Provide a safe learning environment for all.