The board and I want to thank everyone for taking the time to provide input into the strategic planning process currently underway at Niles Community Schools during last week’s public forum. Considering the number of online surveys completed and the presence at the face-to-face meetings, we were thrilled with the turnout and response.

The next step in the 3 to 5 year strategic planning process is to take the input we have gathered — in combination with student data and community information — and build a strategic plan for our district. At an upcoming Board Workshop, we will utilize the feedback we gleaned from students, parents, teachers, administrators, staff members, residents and business leaders to guide the development of the strategic plan and to develop new goals and strategies for the continuation of a high quality education for the community’s students in the most effective and efficient way.

The strategic planning process is a critical step in maintaining the momentum that has been developed over the past two years and will further strengthen the district by providing a blueprint we can follow to continue to meet our primary objective, improving student achievement.

Throughout the process, we will continue to keep the community apprised of our progress. Thank you again for your ongoing participation on this initiative. We look forward to working closely together to ensure a bright future for our students, our schools, and our community.

 

Dr. Dan Applegate is superintendent at Niles Community Schools. He can be reached at (269) 683-0732.