Board of Education Goals – 2007-2008

Learning: Cultivate a positive and motivating instructional environment that encourages students to challenge themselves and that creates a genuine enthusiasm for learning. Encourage students to identify and to follow their passions.

Staff Development: Support research-based opportunities for professional development that incorporate strategies focused on student achievement. Foster collaborative professional growth opportunities for all staff members.

Curriculum: Implement the recommendations of the science evaluation. Monitor the implementation of the special education and guidance evaluations. Initiate the English Language Arts and library evaluations. Continue to support balanced literacy and Response to Intervention initiatives at Bedford Road School and the Middle School. Monitor the results and impact of the Advanced Placement open enrollment program. Strive to improve in all curricular areas.

Fiscal: Exercise fiscal responsibility while maintaining academic excellence. Continue the open budget process and offer more opportunities for community input. Support collaboration with local schools and consortiums, legislative outreach, and statewide tax reform efforts in support of public schools and fiscal efficiencies. Explore options for alternative funding.

Facilities: Evaluate long-term capital improvement projects. Examine operations and maintenance for increased efficiencies, environmental soundness, and sustainability. Maintain District property to reflect the expectation of excellence. Identify use for EXCEL (Expanding Our Children’s Education and Learning) funds. Initiate the renovation and expansion of Pleasantville High School.

Community: Strengthen and nurture the supportive partnership among school, home, and community. Improve the meaningful flow of communication with all constituents. Continue to support efforts that create a welcoming atmosphere in all areas of our schools.

Students: Provide a school environment where students integrate experience and knowledge to form reasoned judgments, solve problems, and embrace positive social and ethical behaviors. Encourage students to apply these skills in personal decision making.