www.natronaschools.org/hr/comrel/news%20archives/May08 -
[Cached Version]
Published on: 5/1/2008
Last Visited: 6/18/2008
Michelle Sullivan, of Sullivan & Associates, facilitated Monday's work session.
Regarding including the community in school of choice discussions, the following were brainstormed:
* Outcomes: a community that is more engaged and supportive of schools; a registration process that reflects the community's interests and values; a better definition of "schools of choice;" measurement of success; providing and receiving articulated communication; review of policies; a model that could be used for other issues; a replicable process; an understanding that data has changed. * Interests: inviting a broader constituency to the table; creating a process in which trustees, the district and the community can learn from one another; building trust between the district and community; creating public support for schools; "school of choice" versus "school of preference;" hearing from individual schools; being conscientious of the history; the focus be that education is provided for every child in the district; clarifying (mis)perceptions. * Values: inclusivity; authenticity; openness; transparency; children will be better served if the community trusts the school system; excellence comes in many packages; keep open minds; empower those who have the most direct affects on kids; respect for different types of knowledge; board members should be able to hold their own opinions.
At a later date, Sullivan will present back to the board her suggestions for moving forward.