Derby Public Schools Strategic Plan

September 22, 2011

Prepared by:

2095 Crestlake Drive Rockwall, TX 75087 203.676.5327 phone 203.937.9180 fax Email: connie.condon@dnsassociates.com

Introduction
On, November 1, 2010 representatives of the Derby Public Schools, Community Leaders, Parents and Students gathered to begin discussion of the future of the Derby Public Schools. This group was charged with developing strategies to build on the strengths of the Derby Public Schools and the impact of the organizations programs. The strategy development process was facilitated by DNS Associates, LLC. The passion of the professional and volunteer leadership was evident as they discussed and debated strategies to transform the Derby Public Schools from good to great. These initial efforts would provide the framework for workgroups to move forward to develop a comprehensive action plan. DNS Associates thanks the volunteers and staff of the Derby Public Schools, the Students, Parents and Community leaders for their professionalism, passion and creativity that they brought to the process. A special thank you is extended to the Southern Connecticut University Interns for providing research and data to the committee so that they could make informed decisions and to Keith McLiverty for his presentation on the City of Derbys fiscal workings and status. The first phase of the planning efforts was reported to the Derby Public Schools on March 1, 2011.

Summary Phase I of the Strategy Development Process brought together Derby Public Schools professional and volunteer leadership, students, parents and community leaders of Derby to utilize the DNS Associates Strategy Development Process to define their organization, including: 1. Developing a Mission and Vision Statement Based on Defined Core Values, Purposes and Competencies 2. Identifying Key Strategies to Achieve the Vision and Mission Phase II of the Strategy Development Process enlisted volunteers from the full planning committee to join one of three workgroups that included: 1. Organizational Efficiency 2. Student Wellbeing and Community Engagement 3. Academic Excellence and Quality Instructional and Administrative Staff The workgroups met 4-6 times between March 2011 and May 2011 to develop comprehensive plans to propose to the full Board of Education for adoption.
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Table of Contents
THE FOUNDATION FOR A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ................................................................................................3

Vision ............................................................................................................................... 3 Mission ............................................................................................................................. 3

KEY STRATEGIC AREAS ......................................................................................................................................................3 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ............................................................................................................................................4

Agenda Development ........................................................................................................ 4 ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE ................................................................................................. 6 STRATEGY: Promote Greater Economic Efficiencies While Preserving Educational Quality ....................................................................................................................................... 15 STRATEGY: Promote Greater Economic Efficiencies While Preserving Educational Quality ............................................................................................................................ 17 STRATEGY: Promote Greater Economic Efficiencies While Preserving Educational Quality 9 1 STRATEGY: Promote Greater Economic Efficiencies While Preserving Educational Quality 0 2 STRATEGY: Promote Greater Economic Efficiencies While Preserving Educational Quality 2 2
PLANNING PROCESS COMPONENTS ..........................................................................................................................48

Determining The Core Ideology ....................................................................................... 49 Core Purpose ............................................................................................................... 49 Core Values ................................................................................................................. 49 SWOT Analysis ............................................................................................................. 51 Strengths ........................................................................................................................ 51 Weakness ....................................................................................................................... 51 Opportunities ................................................................................................................. 52 To Reshape the Educational Landscape (how we provide the education) ..........................52 Threats ........................................................................................................................... 52 Strategy Development ..................................................................................................... 52
APPENDICES .........................................................................................................................................................................56

Committee Members: ...................................................................................................... 57 Workgroup Members: ...................................................................................................... 57 Southern Connecticut University Interns: .........................................................................57 Core Idealogy-All Responses .......................................................................................... 58 Core Purpose- ................................................................................................................ 58 Core Competencies- ....................................................................................................... 59 SWOT Analysis and Vision Statement Development .........................................................60 2

Derby Public Schools Strategy Development Final Report NOTES FROM THE SWOT ANALYSIS ............................................................................... 61
DATA SOURCES ..................................................................................................................................................................62

The Foundation For A Comprehensive Plan

Vision The Derby Public Schools Rigorously Prepares All Students For High Achievement And Success In A Competitive Society Mission The Mission Of The Derby Public Schools Is To Team With Our Community To Provide All Students With A High Quality Education And The Tools Necessary To Compete And Succeed In A Diverse, Global Society.

Key Strategic Areas

Academic Excellence Each Of Our Students Is Academically Prepared To Succeed In Life And In The Global Economy. Organizational Efficiency Promote Greater Economic Efficiencies While Preserving Educational Quality.

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We Will Recruit, Develop, Evaluate And Retain A Highly Effective, Diverse Staff Dedicated To Student Achievement And Success. Student Wellbeing and Family & Community Partnerships We Will Ensure A Positive Quality Of School Life For Every Student While Actively Engaging Parents And Other Citizens As Partners.

The Comprehensive Plan

Agenda Development Having identified the key strategies for the next 3-5 years, the Strategy Development Committee began the task of developing action plans (the agenda) for the immediate future. Developing the agenda involves mapping out the tasks that will need attention in the next 12 -18 months. These are the items that can be acted on in the short term that will improve performance, create added value for our students, staff and the community, and, ultimately, increase the efficiency and impact of the Derby Public Schools. The workgroups also identified several goals that would carry through for 60 months. Current members of the Planning Committee as well as Board of Education Members and other interested community members were recruited to participate in one or more workgroups. Each key strategy was addressed and discussed in small workgroup settings. Participants were asked to develop and recommend action items, create timelines, identify responsible parties and resources as well as the process for evaluation that would begin to move the Derby Public Schools forward and create momentum related to their assigned strategy. The following plans are provided to the Derby Board of Education for review and adoption. DNS suggests that the Board of Education proceed as follows: Review and Adopt The Vision and Mission Statement Prioritize The Strategic Areas Adopt the Prioritized Plan Establish Committees co-chaired by a Board member and one staff or community leader. These committees are as follows: Organizational Efficiency Academic Excellence/Quality Instructional and Administrative Staff
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Once the Board committee chairs are established, DNS will meet with them to discuss the plans as well as those persons they may want to recruit to serve as a Co-Chair and on the committee. DNS will continue to be available to the committees to assist as needed and requested.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Each Of Our Students Is Academically Prepared To Succeed In Life And In The Global Economy. Goal I: Every Child Would Be Reading With Fluency And Condence By The End Of Third Grade.
Strategy: Objective: By 2016, 75% of third grade children in the Derby Public Schools will be uent and condent readers Tasks/Steps Timelines/ Responsibl Benchmarks e Resources Required Measures Of Success/ Evaluation

Work with Derby School Nov. 2012Readiness to ensure Ongoing that every child has access to a quality early childhood education

Academic Excellence Cmtee School Readiness Council

Derby Discovery Community Plan

Evaluations Increase in Preschool access and utilization Increase in the numbers of children screened Numbers of children receiving early intervention services District K-12 Curriculum is based on State Standards Improved Reading Scores

Provide early Jan. 2013- Special identication and May 2013 Services screening of children and ongoing Dept. School Readiness Council Birth to Three Services

Assessment Tools Plan for Early ID and Screening Established Calendar for Screenings

Ensure the curriculum Nov. 2012reects the academic May 2013 standards that have been established by the State of Connecticut

Acad. Excel. Cmtee School Admin Teachers Parents BOE

State Curriculum Standards Curriculum Plans in Classrooms

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Instruction is Nov. 2012differentiated in Sept. 2013 response to the learning needs of every child and an individual education plan and prole charts the progress of every child as a learner

Teachers School Admin Special Services Guidance School Admin

Data on Report on students individual Professional education plans Development training for Percent of instructional children staff receiving Individual interventions Planning Process Plans completed Completed for each child in plans for each classes child $ for training Student Plans
Resources Required Measures Of Success/ Evaluation

Tasks/Steps Goal I Cont.

Timelines/ Responsibl Benchmarks e

The schools partner Jan. 2012with the community to Ongoing promote family literacy -Determine what is being done now -Identify and promote available programs

School Admin Teachers/ Reading specialist Library School Readiness Council PTO The schools partner June 2012- School Admin with parents to improve Ongoing Teachers/ and enhance childrens Reading reading efforts Specialists Parents

Formal plan to Report on efforts partner with Increase in family the engagement community Increase in library use

Formal plan to Increase in engage parent parents in involvement with reading schools on instruction reading efforts

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Strategy: Each Of Our Students Is Academically Prepared To Succeed In Life And In The Global Economy. Goal II: Schools Would Formally Address The Achievement Gap That Exists In Derby Objective: By 2016, through concerted efforts, the Derby schools will eliminate the current achievement gap amongst its students Tasks/Steps Timelines/ Responsi Benchmarks ble Measures Of Success/ Evaluation Acad.Exc Research on the Available Full ell.Cmtee value and Day BOE impact of full Kindergarten School day Programs Admin Kindergarten City Govt. Cost impact of providing full day Kindergarten Funding to Support School Admin School Readines s Council Consistent screening tools Process for conducting screening Personnel to screen Determine and Secure Funding for Screening Percentage of children receiving school readiness screening will increase Resources Required

BOE to support and Nov. 2012provide All Day Ongoing Kindergarten

Work with School Nov. 2012Readiness to ensure Ongoing all children have screening for kindergarten readiness

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Implement individual Sept. 2012student educational ongoing plans so that education is differentiated according to student needs

Teachers Student Plans Plans completed School Inform Software for each child in Admin classes

Develop a District May 2012Data Review Team to June 2013 review data by demographics, school and grade level to assess where to target efforts and develop a plan to enhance instructional efforts Tasks/Steps Timelines/ Goal II Cont. Benchmarks Review programs April 2013and initiatives that June 2013 have proven to be effective -afterschool -in-school initiatives

Teachers School Admin Acad.Exc el Cmtee

School/Student Plan for Data Sets targeting efforts Dashboard to improve Information achievement Developed Plan Implementation for Improvement of plan

Explore and engage June 2013in community Aug. 2013 partnerships to assist

Measures Of Success/ Evaluation Acad.Exc Review current Summary of el Cmtee initiatives best practices School utilized and Admin Research on recommendatio Teachers effective n to implement, Parents initiatives and including Consulta programs nancial nt resources required School List of potential Developed plan Admin community for partnerships BOE partners by curriculum Business Developed plan area and school City Govt. for partnerships by curriculum Increase in area and school community involvement with schools

Responsi ble

Resources Required

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Develop annual Professional Development Plan, secure funding and implement

Current Formal, annual professional professional development development plan plan Review of best Evaluations of practices development Survey of needs efforts and Identication of impact available Adequate training funding Financial resource needs report Develop and expand Jan. 2012-May Parents Parent/student Developed communication 2014 Students survey on improved process between School communications communication schools regarding Admin / and transition students to ease School transitions plan for transition Personnel Teacher survey students at all -5th-6th on levels grade communications Improved and and transitions communication th-9th 8 between schools as evidenced grade through parent Current process and student for transition- evaluation communications /plan Tasks/Steps Timelines/ Responsi Resources Measures Of Goal II Cont. Benchmarks ble Required Success/ Evaluation

Nov. 2012ongoing

School Admin. Teachers BOE

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Explore the need for June 2012development of an Dec. 2012 alternative school for students not thriving in regular classrooms and make recommendations to BOE -Current # of students who could benet -Costs associated -Opportunity for tuition student -Determine what other schools are doing Review student Jan. 2012accessibility to Mar.2012 technology -Develop technology needs report

Acad.Exc Number/type of el.Cmtee students who School could benet Admin Potential School locations to Personnel provide Parents alternative Guidance school-both City Govt. school and community property Survey of area schools for potential collaboration

Report recommendatio ns to BOE for action

Acad Survey of Excel Students Cmtee Report on School available Admin School/ School Community Personnel technology IT Director

Report on Technology Needs and make recommendatio ns

Strategy:

Each Of Our Students Is Academically Prepared To Succeed In Life And In The Global Economy.
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Goal III: Instruction Is Guided By The Continuous Collection, Analysis And Application Of Data Regarding Student Achievement And Wellbeing. Objective: By 2016, Derby schools will have a comprehensive protocol to assess, individualize and improve the educational outcomes and wellbeing of each student. Tasks/Steps Timelin Responsibl Resources Measures Of es/ e Required Success/ Benchm Evaluation arks Determine the current Nov. School Current policy Report on current individualization of 2011- Admin regarding individualization instruction that is Feb. School individualizatio practices utilized and recorded 2012 Personnel n Acad.Excel. Teacher report Cmtee on individualizatio n Provide additional and Feb. School Plan for Increased ongoing professional 2012- Admin professional professional development on ongoing School development development interventions that could Personnel Funding workshops on be implemented for both interventions academic and social/ Staff Survey behavioral issues Improved student achievement Develop a process for May School Current A formal communicating 2012- Admin process for developed intervention needs Aug. School communicatio process for -that involves parents, 2012 Personnel ns communicating teachers and community Parents and involving all Guidance concerned partners in identied intervention recommended to the BOE for policy development and adoption

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Explore and dene available extracurricular activities to support instruction

Student List of current Report on Cmtee available extracurricular Acad. Excel activities benets to Cmtee Survey of instruction and Parents students on recommended Teachers activities actions to pursue Consultant Research/ Information on extracurricular activities and role in education Goal III cont. Timelin Responsibl Resources Measures Of Tasks/Steps es/ e Required Success/ Benchm Evaluation arks Utilize data to provide Nov. Guidance Data reports A formal Guidance input to guidance 2011- Counselors Current protocol report to counselors to assist in May Students Guidance the BOE for policy working with student and 2012 School Process development and formulating class and Admin Student Survey adoption career paths. Make AP classes more Nov. Acad. Excel List of Current Report and accessible to all students 2011- Cmtee AP Classes recommendations Mar. School Current to BOE 2012 Admin Accessibility High Guidelines School Financial Teachers Impact of AP Parents Classes Students including Staffing Analysis of Financial/Staff impact if expanded

Aug. 2012June 2013

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BOE provides continued support for Data collection system

Jan BOE 2012- School ongoing Admin City Govt.

Costs of Support included maintenance in annual BOE of Data budget collection system including upgrades Current Budget for Data and IT needs Dened A trained and expectations dened team to and time provide commitment recommendations for for needed participation services for List of individual identied students, grade school levels and schools personnel by school to Improved student participate achievement Training plan based on data for participants system reports

Establish a District-wide Nov. School data team to review and 2011- Admin recommend services for ongoing Teachers individual students, Guidance grade levels and schools

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ORGANIZATIONAL EFFICIENCY
STRATEGY: Promote Greater Economic Efficiencies While Preserving Educational Quality GOAL I: Explore Regionalization OBJECTIVE: By June 2013, A Comprehensive Report Regarding The Impact Of
Regionalization On The Derby Public Schools Will Be Provided To The Board Of Education.

RATIONALE: All Potential School Congurations And Management Models

Should Be Explored For Their Potential To Increase Educational Effectiveness And The Efficient Use Of Resources, Both Human And Fiscal

TASKS/STEPS

TIMELINE RESPONSIB RESOURCES MEASURES OF S/ LE REQUIRED SUCCESS/ EVALUATION BENCHM Organizatio Contact with n SDE Workgroup Superinten Lists of dent regional Business districts Manager Info. On Organizatio similar n Cmtee demographic s Business Current Manager Derby Costs Superinten Financials dent from a Regional District Org. SDE Committee information Concise List of Steps Required Notes regarding experience and report to committee

ARKS Gather legal information on April the process required to 2011 regionalize Discuss actual experience of Nov.15, regionalization with other 2011districts, including costs, Feb. savings, student outcomes 1,2012

Evaluate the nancial impact Nov.15, of regionalization on the 2011district Feb. 1,2012

Chart comparing costs

Determine the costs Nov.15, associated with the process 2011Feb. 1,2012 Explore the variety of Nov.15, models that could be 2011pursued: Feb. 1,2012 K-12, K-8, 9-12

List of costs associated with regionalization Org. Guidance Report on Committee from SDE on potential Superinten locations models and dent Contact impact on information District for each Recommendati model on of best model for Derby
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Research and Align best educational practices and transition practices with the regionalization process

Nov.15, 2011Feb. 1,2012

Goal I Cont. TASKS/STEPS

Research Summary of Articles of research best practice information of educational environments on youth and Principal their achievement TIMELINE RESPONSIB RESOURCES MEASURES OF S/ LE REQUIRED SUCCESS/

Superinten dent Consultant Parents, residents, businesses

BENCHM EVALUATION ARKS Develop a model Feb.1Superinten Business Mgr. Grid organizational structure for May 12, dent comparing SDE each potential model 2012 positions for Business Legislators explored to include each model Manager administrative positions. Org, Cmtee (infrastructure) Begin informal discussions April Org. Cmtee to determine if there are 2011BOE local school systems Aug.2011 interested in regionalization Determine community Jan. Org.Cmtee reaction and support for 2012BOE Chair regionalization Mar.2012 Superintende Report from nt Superintenden t BOE Location Recorded Initial Report resident, key stakeholder from and school committee personnel statements

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Provide a report and recommendations to the Board of Education for Action

June 2012

Org. Cmtee Report of all Board minutes ndings reecting report presentation Board Action If the Board Votes to Pursue Regionalizatio n, a fully developed work plan

STRATEGY: Promote Greater Economic Efficiencies While Preserving Educational Quality GOAL II: Explore Reorganization of Elementary Schools to Achieve Greater Efficiency and Diversity OBJECTIVE: By June 2012, Determine the Value of Changing the Current K-5 Model to Pre-K-2 and 3-5 RATIONALE: Reorganization of schools into Grades Pre-K-2 and 3-5 provides the opportunity for consistency in educational delivery, shared resources and the opportunity for greater student achievement and diversity in each. TASKS/STEPS TIMELIN RESPONSIBL RESOURCES MEASURES ES/ E REQUIRED OF SUCCESS/ EVALUATION BENCHM ARKS

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Speak with other districts Aug. on their experience with the 2011model and the impact on Nov. student outcome 2011

Survey teachers for input Sept. Survey and their perception of the 2011responses impact on the students, Nov. their work and the families 2011 if elementary conguration is changed Survey parents for input on Nov. Teachers, Survey tool Collated the impact of the 2011Principals Forum at each responses reorganization on their Jan. 2012 school child, family and neighborhood Align the effects of Oct. Superintende Child Report on reorganization with 2011nt development research research-based best Dec.2011 Consultant research practice for children Determine the costs Nov. Superintende Draft budgets Report associated with 2011nt that compare implementation- Determine Feb.2012 Business current and added costs or savings Mgr. proposed associated with the costs reorganization Compare the current model Dec. Superintende Current Comparison of elementary education 2011nt staffing plan of current to delivery with new model for Feb.2012 Principals and proposed proposed teacher and support plan model services. Make formal report and March Org Report Board recommendation to the full 2012 Committee minutes Board recording Report and recommendat ion

Superintende Contact nt/ information Principals on locations Special of various Services models. Director Developed questions to ask each contact Principals Online survey Consultant tool

Report to committee

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STRATEGY: Promote Greater Economic Efficiencies While Preserving Educational Quality GOAL III: Explore Reorganization of Elementary Schools to Achieve Greater Efficiency and Diversity OBJECTIVE: By June 2012, Determine The Value Of Closing One Elementary School And Combining The Two Current Elementary Schools Into One Facility And Make Recommendations For Board Of Education Action RATIONALE: All Potential School Congurations And Management Models Should Be Explored For Their Potential To Increase Educational Effectiveness And The Efficient Use Of Resources, Both Human And Fiscal TASKS/STEPS TIMELINES RESPONSI RESOURCES MEASURES OF / BLE REQUIRED SUCCESS/ EVALUATION BENCHMA RKS
Determine the current facility Jan.-Mar. and administrative costs for 2012 each elementary school Explore potential renovation Mar.-June or construction that would be 2012 required and approximate costs Business Manager Principals Current Report budgets and actual expense reports Org. Cmtee Estimated Report on Business sq.footage approximate Mgr. required costs Current construction costs Facilities List of Committee potential Parents, locations residents

Explore and report on potential locations And grade congurations Survey parents for input on the impact of the reorganization on their child, family and neighborhood

Mar.-June 2012

Report and recommend Top two priority locations

Include with survey conducted between Nov. 2011Jan. 2012 Survey teachers for input and Include with their perception of the survey impact on the students, their conducted work and the families Sept.-Nov. 2011

Org. Cmtee Information on Survey results Superintend potential ent locations/ Consultant costs Superintend Information on Survey results ent potential Instructiona locations/ l Staff costs Consultant

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Derby Public Schools Strategy Development Final Report Align the effects of the April-July Superintend Research Summary of reorganization with 2012 ent regarding research research-based best practice Consultant school size for children and student achievement Determine added costs or July 2012- Superintend Current costs Cost Analysis savings associated with the Sept.2012 ent compared to reorganization Bus. new building Manager costs Facilities Committee Provide full report and make October Org. Cmtee Full Report Board Minutes recommendations to the BOE 2012 and Action STRATEGY: Promote Greater Economic Efficiencies While Preserving Educational Quality GOAL IV: Explore Online Instructional Delivery Models for Improved and Expanded Curriculum Delivery to Positively Impact Student Achievement and Fiscal Efficiency OBJECTIVE: By June 2012, Deliver a Formal Recommendation Regarding Online Learning to the Board of Education for Consideration RATIONALE: The use of online instruction would provide expanded curriculum options for students as well as provide a changed delivery model for some courses that could result in reduced staffing and materials costs. Online instruction could also attract students from other districts.

TASKS/STEPS

TIMELINE RESPONSIB S/ LE BENCHMA RKS

RESOURCES REQUIRED

MEASURES OF SUCCESS/ EVALUATION Report on ndings

Explore known successes and online users

Jan.2012- Superintende State Dept. of Mar.2012 nt Education

Determine the technology requirements and costs necessary to implement

Org. Cmtee Identied online users from other Superintendents Jan.2012- Principals Current tech Report on Mar.2012 inventory ndings Facilities Specications of Online upgrade needs provider guidelines IT Director Mar.2012- Superintende Summary and Fiscal report May 2012 nt comparison of current Bus. technology costs, Manager and costs for IT Director implementation of online courses 20

Establish the scal and organizational impact of online learning to the district

Derby Public Schools Report Review the types of online Mar.-May programs available by grade 2012 level

Strategy Development Org. Cmtee Lists of Providers Report on

Final

Superintende Contact nt information on current users Principals Review the research Jan. 2012- Superintende Available regarding best practice and Mar. 2012 nt research on how value of online learning children learn Consultant and components of effective instruction Determine the impact on April Superintende SDE credits for graduation and 2012-June nt methods of assessment 2012 Principals

online programs Report on ndings

Report

GOAL IV CONT. TASKS/STEPS

TIMELINE RESPONSIB S/ LE

RESOURCES REQUIRED

MEASURES OF SUCCESS/ EVALUATION Comparison of standards to online curriculums

Review how online learning programs align with the CT curriculum standards

BENCHMA RKS April Superintend State Standards 2012-July ent Online 2012 Org.Cmtee curriculum

Consultant Develop a potential Aug. Superintend Identied Report staffing plan if online 2012ent instructional learning is implemented Nov. 2012 Principal staff who could participate in Instructiona online l Staff instruction Determine professional development needs to implement and the impact of retention and hiring

Oct. Principals Survey of Professional 2012-De. Instructiona interested staff Development 2012 and those Plan l Staff wishing to Superintend receive training ent

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Determine potential Oct.-Dec. Superintend List of Potential available public and 2012 ent Foundations to private dollars to support Consultant Approach costs to support online Selected online learning pilot and/or provider and initiative costs

Report on potential funders and plan for solicitations

Report to the full BOE with recommendations for action

Jan. 2013 Org. Cmtee Comprehensive Report and Report and Board Minutes Power Point presentation

STRATEGY: Promote Greater Economic Efficiencies While Preserving Educational Quality GOAL VI: Explore Creation of a Magnet School and/or Alternative Education Program OBJECTIVE: By June 2014, the Board of Education will Determine Whether to Develop a Magnet School or Develop a Model that Includes a Magnet School Within An Existing School. RATIONALE: A Magnet School or Alternative Educational Programs Can Serve As A Means To Retain Students In The District As Well As Attract New Tuition Paying Students To The District, Thereby Improving Its Fiscal Position. TASKS/STEPS TIMELINES/ RESPONSI RESOURCES MEASURE BLE REQUIRED S OF BENCHMAR SUCCESS KS / EVALUAT ION Guideline Documen ts

Secure State guidelines Jan. 2012 and information regarding Magnet Schools

Org. Cmtee SDE Guidelines Consultant

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Seek Input from Mar.2012Community and Students See Goal #1 on Potential Areas of Focus From Indentied Focus Areas, review similar programs in/out of the State for student outcomes and scal impact Identify the Model Most Appropriate for the District, its Facilities and Fiscal Efficiency

Org. Cmtee Venue Event Consultant List of Potential Attendan Superinten Focus Areas ce dent Questions To Pose April 2012- Org. Cmtee List of Contacts Report on June 2012 Parents and Magnet Findings Students Schools

June 2012- Org. Cmtee Developed Model Sept. 2013 Superinten Schematics With dent Staffing Patterns Principals etc. Parents Evaluate Current Facilities Sept. 2013- Superinten for Appropriateness of Jan. 2014 dent Model Org. Cmtee BOE Provide BOE with a report March. that includes 2014-June recommendations for 2014 consideration Org. CmteeComprehensive Report

Identied Model

Evaluatio n Report and Recomme ndation Board Minutes and Action

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QUALITY INSTRUCTIONAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

STRATEGY: We Will Recruit, Develop, Evaluate And Retain A Highly Effective, Diverse Staff Dedicated To Student Achievement And Success. GOAL I: We have a systematic employment process that results in the selection of high quality candidates for every teaching position and ensures that our faculty reflects the diversity of the students and the community that we serve OBJECTIVE: By 2016, a systematic recruitment and employment process will ensure high quality diverse staff RATIONALE: A high quality professional staff is key to the educational achievement of our students. TASKS/STEPS TIMELINES/ RESPONSI RESOURCES MEASURES BLE REQUIRED OF BENCHMAR SUCCESS/ KS EVALUATI ON Meeting minutes

Review current Jan 2012recruitment and May 2012 employment systems and protocols

Quality Staff Cmtee School Admin Teachers

Current written protocol

Parents Identify and dene high May 2012- Quality quality attributes and Aug. 2012 Staff revise protocol to reect Cmtee the denitions School Admin Teachers

Any research regarding attributes of quality administrators and instructional staff

Report and recommen dations for adoption of revised recruitmen t protocol

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Establish goals to bring school personnel in line with the diversity of the student body and community

May 2012- Quality Aug.2012 Staff Cmtee School Admin Teachers Parents

Data regarding See Above demographics of student population Data regarding demographics of school personnel Recruitment and employment protocol

STRATEGY: We Will Recruit, Develop, Evaluate And Retain A Highly Effective, Diverse Staff Dedicated To Student Achievement And Success. GOAL II: We employ differentiated staffing in order to extend the influence of great teachers and to control personnel costs. OBJECTIVE: By 2016, instructional staff will implement differentiated staffing and instructional models that will provide enhanced educational achievement and provide scal efficiency RATIONALE: The knowledge explosion and the rise in professional salaries makes it evident that the professionals time must be used to maximum advantage. Low-level responsibilities such as collecting lunch money or supervising recess or sports events needs to be delegated to non-professional personnel while the professional tasks of diagnosing, prescription development, treatment and assessment should be assigned to specialist teachers. Roles and responsibilities must be differentiated in order for increased learning to take place. TASKS/STEPS TIMELINES/ RESPONSI RESOURCES MEASURES BLE REQUIRED OF BENCHMAR SUCCESS/ KS EVALUATIO N Dened list of school personnel talents and expertise

Survey school personnel Aug. 2012for skills and expertise October that fall outside their 2012 current role

School Admin Quality Staff Cmtee Consultant

Survey Document

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Review current curriculum Oct. 2012and staffing patterns to Feb. 2013 determine how differentiated staffing might better support student outcomes

School Admin Quality Staff Cmtee

Curriculum Staffing patterns by school

Report and proposal regarding Differentiate d staffing

Consultant -Analyze nancial impact Report recommendations March 2013 Quality to the Board of Education Staff for consideration and Cmtee adoption

STRATEGY: We Will Recruit, Develop, Evaluate And Retain A Highly Effective, Diverse Staff Dedicated To Student Achievement And Success. GOAL III: We invest in our faculty by providing a comprehensive, coherent program of professional development that focuses on the needs of our students. OBJECTIVE: By 2013, a comprehensive system to identify and provide ongoing, targeted professional development opportunities to the instructional and administrative staff to strengthen instructional and administrative capacity that will enhance their ability to positively impact student learning. RATIONALE: In addition to enhancing the human capital of
participating teachers, professional development can also contribute to the school's social capital. In this view, professional development may enhance student learning through its effects on teaching practices. When teachers have a strong sense of professional community their morale is better and teacher commitment is higher. Professional community helps support teaching practices, and helps teachers address the uncertainty that accompanies non-routine teaching of the sort encouraged by many school reform initiatives.

TASKS/STEPS

TIMELINES/ RESPONSI RESOURCES MEASURES OF BLE REQUIRED SUCCESS/ BENCHMAR KS EVALUATION

List of Minutes of Professional meeting Development Provided in 2001-2012 Jan 2013-Feb. Acad. Excel 2013 Cmtee School Admin

Review past professional development activities

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Derby Public Schools Strategy Development Final Report Survey administrative and Feb. 2013Acad. Excel Survey Tool Collation of instructional staff for April 2013 Cmtee Responses individual professional School development needs Admin Consultant Discuss with school Feb. 2013Acad. Excel Meeting Time List of principals what Mar.2013 Cmtee professional professional development School development is needed school-wide Admin needs Determine costs April 2013 Acad. Excel Budget Report Identied Costs associated with Cmtee professional development School efforts Admin Bus. Mgr. With School April-May Acad. Excel Calendar A Calendar of Administration, develop a 2013 Cmtee Budget Professional professional development School Development calendar for the next year, Admin Activities including cost projections Bus. Mgr. Professional Devel. Is included in the school budget

QUALITY OF STUDENT LIFE AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

STRATEGY:
We Will Ensure School Environments That Promote a Quality Of Life For Every Student And Enhances Their Engagement And That Of The Parents And Community GOAL I: Our Schools Will Value, Fund And Provide Students With The Opportunity To Engage In Extra Curricular Activities That Include Athletics And The Arts (Performing, Music, Creative Arts) OBJECTIVE: By September 2012, Students Can Continue To Participate In Athletic Or Arts Programs. So They Can Have A Well Rounded School Experience. RATIONALE: The Derby School experience must include programs outside of the curriculum to allow students to explore interests, build new skills and learn to work in team settings. These experiences provide a more well- rounded individual as well as assist students in their ability to gain acceptance and funding for post high school educational pursuit.

TASKS/STEPS

TIMELINES/ RESPONSIB RESOURCES MEASURES OF LE REQUIRED SUCCESS/ BENCHMAR KS EVALUATION

Improvement Plan Nov. 2011- Student Life Report Jan. 2012 Cmtee

Review CIAC Study conducted previously

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Derby Public Schools Report Determine participation rates for all current extracurricular activities and clubs

Jan. 2012

School Admin Club Advisors

Development Final Lists of Report of number of Activities by students School participating by school and activity Attendance/ Member Lists

Strategy

Survey students on See Goal # 5 interests and access to current activities Conduct a community See Org. forum on what they would Cmtee Plan like to see available and Share Forum Establish goals for student April 2012participation June 2012

Student Life Cmtee Student Life Scheduled Cmtee Meetings School Advisors School Admin Published List of Goals for Student Participation

Goal I Cont. TASKS/STEPS

TIMELINES/ RESPONSIB MEASURES OF LE RESOURCES SUCCESS/ BENCHMAR REQUIRED EVALUATION KS Obtain data from other Jan. 2012Student Contact List of Activities schools on their April 2012 Life Cmtee Information Provided in other participation rates and Districts with what they are doing Comparative Derby Data Explore school/ June 2012- Student Meetings Agreements for community Sept. 2013 Life Cmtee with Participation/ collaborations to Community Implementation of School expand and enhance Members new or enhanced Admin participation/offerings Agreements activities for Participatio n

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Explore/Secure Jan. 2012Resources for program Ongoing enhancement

School Admin

Student Life Valley Cmtee

Local/ List of Potential Regional Sources of funds Foundations Secured Resources

Consultant Foundations

STRATEGY: We Will Ensure School Environments That Promote a Quality Of Life For Every Student And Enhances Their Engagement And That Of The Parents And Community GOAL II: Our Students Feel A Sense Of Safety And Belonging OBJECTIVE: By September 2013, Systems Will Be In Place To Insure That All Students In The Derby Public Schools Can Participate In A Safe, Inclusive And Welcoming Environment RATIONALE: Students Must Be Provided With A Safe Environment That Is Conducive To Their Continued Development And Learning. A Sense Of Belonging Is Key To Student Motivation And Can Diminish Their Need Connect With Groups That Can Negatively Affect On Their Future TASKS/STEPS TIMELINES/ RESPONSIBL RESOURCES MEASURES E REQUIRED OF BENCHMARK SUCCESS/ S EVALUATIO N Adopt a District-wide developmental guidance program See Goal #5

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Review/Revise facility July 2011safety protocols and Sept. 2011 responses a. Propose revisions to Board of Education for approval Assess the welcoming Nov. 2011environment and culture of May 2012 each school

Superinten Current Plan dent Principals

Principals Faculty Students Parents

Provide a welcoming environment in each school

Sept.2012Ongoing

Principals Faculty

Review student handbooks Jan. 2012for information on student Sept. 2012 life -Revise student handbook as necessary Goal II Cont.

Principals Students Parents Teachers

Final adopted and implement ed plan. Welcoming Completed Schools Assessmen Assessment t and report to Board of Education Recommendati Follow up ons from assessment Assessment in 2013 indicates changes. Current Revised handbook handbook

TASKS/STEPS RESPONSIB MEASURES OF LE RESOUR SUCCESS/ BENCHMARKS CES EVALUATION REQUIRE D See Previous Step TIMELINES/

Involve students in decision-making -develop annual survey for student input

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STRATEGY: We Will Ensure School Environments That Promote a Quality Of Life For Every Student And Enhances Their Engagement And That Of The Parents And Community GOAL III: Our Students Experience A Sense Of Empowerment And Success OBJECTIVE: To Develop A Curriculum And Support Network To Ensure That Students Have The Opportunity To Acquire The Experiences Necessary To Feel Empowered And Successful. RATIONALE: Research has shown that student success is directly related to the development of key assets that include: a sense of belonging, usefulness, competence and empowerment. Students should have the opportunity to experience each throughout their educational experience.

TASKS/STEPS

TIMELINE RESPONSIBL RESOURCES MEASURES S/ E REQUIRED OF SUCCESS/ EVALUATION BENCHM ARKS

Survey students regarding their interests

See previous steps Engage the students and April Student Life community in mentoring 2012Cmtee and tutoring Sept. 2012 School Admin Community -dene mentoring/tutoring programs -review current practices Parents

Plan for Dened mentoring and program tutoring developed Release Plan for Agreements travel regarding Dened Program participation Parent permission to participate 31

Derby Public Schools Report Develop a wider variety of See goal extracurricular and interest #1 groups and determine costs

Recruit community Sept. volunteers to assist with 2012special interest groups and ongoing clubs

Solidify current Child Study May Team 2012Ongoing

Strategy Development Student Life Student/ New activity Cmtee Community offerings School Admin input from New funding Consultant forum secured to Cost Estimates support Target resources activities School Admin Contacts Community Teachers List of Volunteer Board of expectations for numbers Education volunteers Numbers of Orientation plan students for volunteers participating Child Study Meeting Time Formal Child Team Study Team School Admin

Final

Goal III Cont. TASKS/STEPS

TIMELINES/ RESPONSIB RESOURCES LE REQUIRED BENCHMAR KS MEASUR ES OF SUCCESS /

EVALUAT ION Identify and intervene Nov. 2011- Guidance Individual Individual with struggling students, ongoing Counselors Intervention plans Plans either academically or Teachers Assigned Progress socially Reports Child Study instructional staff/volunteer Team Report on Assigned numbers School guidance and Admin impact

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STRATEGY: We Will Ensure School Environments That Promote a Quality Of Life For Every Student And Enhances Their Engagement And That Of The Parents And Community GOAL IV: The Schools Will Ensure That All Students Receive Comprehensive Guidance And Counseling Services OBJECTIVE: By September Of 2012, Develop And Implement A Formal, Written Guidance And Counseling Service Process RATIONALE: Students need formal guidance and counseling to
develop future goals that will assist them in planning their curriculum choices as well as working through those behaviors and barriers that may restrict their achievement.

TASKS/STEPS

TIMELINES/ RESPONSI RESOURCES MEASURES OF BLE REQUIRED SUCCESS/ BENCHMAR KS Jan. 2012Ongoing Guidance faculty Special Service Director/ Staff DNS EVALUATION Current Report on Process process and State statutes revisions to improve and laws governing

Review the process for early identication and screening of students

Survey students regarding See Step on guidance needs and Annual expectations student survey Develop a District-wide See Goal #5 developmental guidance system Review current guidance Jan. 2012- Guidance and counseling processes Feb. 2012 faculty DNS

Current Process

Report on Findings

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Revise guidance and counseling process to effect positive student results

April 2012- Guidance Sept. 2012 faculty

Current Process

Superinten Student dent Surveys Principals

a. Ensure there is a process to guide students to appropriate paths to attain post High School goals Explore potential online Jan. 2012guidance to support Sept.2012 students. (See NEASC ref.)

School Admin Guidance

Information on Models

Recommended model Resources

STRATEGY: We Will Ensure School Environments That Promote a Quality Of Life For Every Student And Enhances Their Engagement And That Of The Parents And Community GOAL V: Our Schools Teach, Model and Promote Respect for Self and Others OBJECTIVE: By September 2012, Students will Be Informed of the Schools Model for Behavior and Their Core Beliefs Regarding Respect for Self and Others RATIONALE: Students And Schools That Internalize Respect In All Areas Will Experience A Reduction Of Behavioral Issues And Allow For Improved Learning Environments. TASKS/STEPS TIMELINES RESPONSIBLE RESOURCES MEASU / REQUIRED RES OF SUCCES BENCHMA S/ RKS EVALU ATION

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Explore Developmental Models for Behavior

Nov. Superintende Outlines of 2011-Mar. nt various developmental a. Discuss and dene what 2012 Guidance models would be included and faculty outcomes desired Student Life Information on current models b. Determine any district Committee being utilized wide models in place Board of Research on best c. Research best practice Education practice d. Propose a district-wide Consultant Volunteer developmental model for handbook adoption by the Board of Education e. Ensure that all school personnel and volunteers are provided with training on the adopted model (Responsive classroom, Boys Town Model etc.

A formal, districtwide develop mental plan. Adoptio n by the Board of Educati on Implem entation by Guidanc e Counsel ors and Teacher s An annual evaluati on of results

Goal V Cont. TASKS/STEPS

TIMELINES RESPONSIBLE MEASURES / RESOURCES OF REQUIRED SUCCESS/ BENCHMA RKS EVALUATIO N

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Annually survey students on the current school environment (Gr.1-4) (Gr 5-12)

Survey 90% of Superintende instrument students at Process for all schools Aug.2011- nt will online Dec.2011 Principals -develop survey questions distribution complete the survey DNS -survey students in Incentives for Consultant January of each year return or survey -collate/share survey results with faculty -include survey results when possible in school improvement plans Develop and include a district-wife statement of beliefs and include in student handbook and display in schools

Students

May 2012- Superintende Meeting Sept. 2012 nt space and time Principals Teachers Board of education Parents Students City rep.

Visible displays of belief statements Funds/in in the kind resource to schools and print posters throughout or banners the city

STRATEGY: We Will Ensure School Environments That Promote a Quality Of Life For Every Student And Enhances Their Engagement And That Of The Parents And Community GOAL VI: Schools Will Exhibit A Respect For Cultural Diversity OBJECTIVE: By January 2012, A Process For Student Recognition In Schools And The Community Will Be Implemented RATIONALE: Exhibited respect for diversity, whether cultural, racial or
gender related increases a students sense of inclusion and belonging as well as assists them in gaining appropriate attitudes necessary for success in the workplace and the global society.

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TASKS/STEPS

TIMELINES/ RESPONSI BLE BENCHMAR KS

RESOURCES MEASURES REQUIRED OF SUCCESS/ EVALUATIO N Formal protocol Adoption by Board of Education

Develop a protocol for communications so that they are accessible to non-English speaking families and students

Jan. 2012Mar. 2012

School Admin

Current protocol

Student Parent Input Life Cmtee Parents Students April 2012- School Ongoing Admin Students Parents

Promote events that celebrate our diverse population

Meeting Times Calendar of Events

STRATEGY: We Will Ensure School Environments That Promote a Quality Of Life For Every Student And Enhances Their Engagement And That Of The Parents And Community GOAL VII: Parents And Other Citizens Will Be Actively Engaged As Partners In The Work Of The Derby Public Schools. OBJECTIVE: To Provide An Environment That Is Welcoming To Students, Families And The Community That Encourages Involvement And Engagement RATIONALE: The Education Of Our Students Is Dependent On The Interest, Engagement And Support Of The Full Community.

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TASKS/STEPS

TIMELINES/ RESPONSI BLE BENCHMAR KS

RESOURCES REQUIRED

MEASURE S OF SUCCESS/

Assess all schools for a welcoming environment

Explore and develop potential volunteer opportunities for parents and community members and include in student handbooks Develop and implement a Jan. 2012communications plan to Mar.2012 inform key stakeholders of school efforts and activities

EVALUATI ON Sept. 2011- School Assessment Tool Completed Dec. 2011 Admin assessmen Student ts and Life delivered Committee reports PTO/PTA Students Board of Ed City Rep Consultant See Step #3

Student Life Cmtee School Admin School IT Person Senior Center Parks & Rec. Dept.

Current Plan

Formal Communic List of Communications ation Plan to share BOE Adoption

Goal VII Cont TASKS/STEPS

TIMELINES/ RESPONSI BLE BENCHMAR KS

RESOURCES MEASURES REQUIRED OF SUCCESS/ EVALUATIO N

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Explore and develop partnerships with local businesses and organizations to support schools and students Identify any existing barriers for parent and community engagement and remove

April 2012- School Ongoing Admin Consultant See Parents Org.Cmtee School Forum Plan Admin Consultant

Informal and Formal Partnerships

Annual Parent Survey

STRATEGY: We Will Ensure School Environments That Promote a Quality Of Life For Every Student And Enhances Their Engagement And That Of The Parents And Community GOAL VIII: Our Students Are Recognized By Their School And The Community For Their Efforts And Successes. OBJECTIVE: By June 2012, A Formal Plan Is Developed And Implemented To Provide Recognition For Students RATIONALE: Recognition Of Students For Their Efforts And Success Fosters A Sense Of Belonging And Provides Them And The Community With Positive Information That Builds A Sense Of Pride And Support For The Schools.
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TASKS/STEPS

TIMELINES/ RESPONSI BLE BENCHMAR KS

RESOURCES REQUIRED

MEASURE S OF SUCCESS /

Develop a process and Aug.2011protocol for daily Sept.2011 announcements of student efforts or success -secure locations for display Create a district newsletter that could be electronic, posted on the district and school websites and facebook at least three times per year a. Develop calendar for submissions b. Develop protocol for process, editing c. Create a District facebook page for each school d. Print 100 hard copies for distribution in Community e. Solicit community for contributions of paper and ink. Goal VIII Cont. TASKS/STEPS Aug.2011Sept.2012

EVALUAT ION Principals Information Record of the Students submitted by students, faculty number Teachers of Agreement of student Principals to kudos participate announce d. Webmaster Computer/Tech Printed system newslette School rs Personnel Newslette Students Resources to rs on Available support District Technolog website y Communit y Volunteers Board of Education Library Consultant

TIMELINES/ RESPONSI MEASURES OF BLE RESOURCES SUCCESS/ BENCHMAR REQUIRED EVALUATION KS

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Develop a quarterly, online student-driven newspaper for each school -discuss with Bradley the specics of their newspaper including costs -develop an editing protocol -determine if hard copies should be printed and distributed -engage community journalism professionals to assist -if hard copies are prepared, solicit community contributions of paper and ink -determine potential for a newspaper or journalism club

Oct.2011April 2012

Principals Available A student computer newspaper in School nd Volunteers and software the 2 quarter of 2012 and Communit then three y times per year Volunteers thereafter Students

Review and update the Nov.2011formal website Sept.2012 management plan to keep information current -develop approved list of items to be included -ensure a system is in place for gathering information -determine human resources required/costs

Webmaster Review Formal plan Superinten current plan for website management dent Principals Teachers Timely placement of information on websites

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Goal VIII Cont. TASKS/STEPS

TIMELINE RESPONS RESOURCES S/ IBLE REQUIRED MEASURES OF SUCCESS/ EVALUATION Faculty and students are engaged to speak at least ve times per year

BENCHMA RKS Develop a student and Sept. Superinte List of speakers faculty speakers bureau 2013ndent and topics Sept. 2014 Faculty -recruit faculty and Students students who could speak in the community on topics of interest -promote available speakers to local organizations

-determine release cost for faculty and considerations for students leaving school during instructional time Ensure annual recognition Sept. Superinte List of current All schools and/or awards assemblies 2012-June ndent available awards have a or banquets are 2013 Principals Any current plan minimum of conducted PTOs for student one Alumni recognition recognition -review what awards are event annually currently available -dene list of recognitions and awards that could be provided -engage business community and alumni in sponsoring the events Provide students with the Nov. Guidance Information on Formal opportunity to mentor/ 2012- Superinte student implementatio read/tutor younger Sept. 2015 ndent mentoring and n Report on students as a reward for Principals tutoring participation academic achievement Parents programs and evaluation Student Student, parent of experience Life and faculty input by mentor/ Cmtee tutor and mentee/tutee.
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Planning Process Components

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Determining The Core Ideology

Core Purpose

The core purpose is the Derby Public Schools reason for being and is the idealistic motivation for doing the Schools work. to ensure that every student receives the highest quality education possible, with the goal of creating welleducated, responsible and productive members of society. to realize high levels of academic achievement and the personal well being for every child. to be committed to the development of our students character, talents, abilities and intellect in order that they may have the opportunity to succeed in a global society.
Core Values

Determining the Core

An important rst step in the planning process for any organization whether it is forprot or nonprot - is determining the core. This part of the process denes the organization. The core purpose and core values are dened.

Core Purpose
The organizations reason for being. The core purpose states what the organization seeks to accomplish the reason for its existence.

Core Values
These are the non-negotiable intrinsic beliefs that serve as guiding principles for the organization, its staff, and volunteers. While these values may not necessarily be published, they

Core values are the essential and enduring principles that guide every action and decision on behalf of the Derby Public Schools That the Derby Public Schools establish clear goals, measure progress, and take responsibility for results. That as educators, we accept responsibility for the success of our students.

That the family is an integral and valued part of the learning process. That the Derby Public Schools provide a supportive and respectful environment that Promotes the development of the whole (physical, social, emotional and cognitive) child and enhances learning for all children. That the Derby Public Schools openly share relevant information about their performance with all stakeholders. These core values should be communicated and embraced throughout the organization. They should be honored by everyone involved, particularly the board and staff leadership.

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Derby Public Schools Report Core Competencies

Strategy

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Final

To accomplish our purpose, the Derby Public Schools must ensure: The understanding of the academic standards established by the state of Connecticut. High quality, effective instruction for all students.

The core competencies are those activities or programs an organization must do well in order to pursue its core purpose. These are the things the organization must excel at to accomplish the purpose.

Systematic professional development that promotes academic excellence and assists teachers in the delivery of effective instruction. That every educator is skilled in the promotion of motivation, engagement and self discipline among our students. The capacity to collect, analyze the utilize data on student performance so as to provide constructive feedback and to promote the improvement of instruction. Proactive support services (PCRC, Youth Service Bureau etc.) are engaged and available to support students and educators. To provide a stimulating, challenging and culturally responsive curriculum. That a metric is established to evaluate and monitor child development and instructional programs of the educational system Effective relationships and interpersonal skills Rigor (thoroughness, meticulousness, care, attention, precision)-Need a more concise statement-can you make this a statement That all staff members and students are effective communicators. The effective use of modern communications and learning technology with an infrastructure that supports ongoing advances in technology.

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SWOT Analysis

At this point in the process, the Derby Public Schools has defined itself by determining its core and has its sights set on where it would like to be in the long-term through the envisioned future. Prior to setting a course to reach that future, the Schools set a baseline understanding of its current capacity. Through completion of the SWOT Analysis, committee members identified the Schools Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats the result of this SWOT analysis follows: Strengths Our Students The Intimacy of Our School Dedicated, Caring and Committed Staff Small District Small Community Diverse Population in Schools and Community Weakness Student Turnover Large Class Size Educational Apathy in the Community Transient Population Small District Imbalance of Diversity in Elementary Schools Lack of Resources

The SWOT Analysis The SWOT Analysis is a tool for assessing the organization internally and externally. Internally by charting the Strengths capabilities that enable the organization to excel Weaknesses characteristics or practices that prohibit the organization from reaching its potential Externally by charting the Opportunities - trends, forces, events and ideas on which the organization can capitalize Threats trends, forces or events outside of the organizations control, that may negatively impact its efforts In an effort to focus the analysis and apply business principles, the SWOT Analysis was conducted using the following four perspectives: Internal Operations operational procedures, products and services, cost, quality, asset utilization, etc Intangible Assets human capital, corporate culture, technology, etc. Customers / Clients cultivation, interaction, and satisfaction of customers

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Opportunities To Provide Excellent Programs to Attract Students from Out of Town To Bring Back Pride and a Positive Image to Derby Room for Improvement A Data Collection System That Allows For Timely Response to Data To Reshape the Educational Landscape (how we provide the education) Continued Professional Development

Threats State and Federal Regulation and Funding Unmotivated and Directionless Student Students Leaving District to Attend Other Schools East vs. West Old versus New Lack of Revenue Stream Curriculum Real Estate (City has little geographical room to grow for increased tax base through home ownership or business development Lack of Community Development

Strategy Development
Utilizing the SWOT Analysis, the Committee Developed Six Key Strategies and Identified Potential Goals That Could Be Considered by Workgroups as They Construct an Action Plan For Each. These Include The Following:

1. Academic Excellence We Will Ensure That Each Of Our Students Is Academically Prepared To Succeed In Life And In The Global Economy.

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Indicators of Success Every child is motivated and engaged to do quality work in school. Every child has access to a quality early childhood education. Every child reading with fluency and confidence by the end of third grade. The achievement gap between the children of families who are well off and those who are less well off will become a thing of the past. Instruction is guided by a curriculum that reflects the academic standards that have been established by the State of Connecticut. Instruction is differentiated in response to the learning needs of every child. Every student has an education plan and profile that charts her/his progress as a learner. Instruction is guided by the continuous collection, analysis and application of data about student achievement and wellbeing. We take full advantage of the power and flexibility offered by on line learning to promote student achievement.

2. Quality Teaching We will recruit, develop, evaluate and retain a highly effective, diverse staff dedicated to student achievement and success. Indicators of Success We have a systematic employment process that results in the selection of high quality candidates for every teaching position. The diversity of our faculty more nearly reflects the diversity of the students and the community that we serve. We employ differentiated staffing in order to extend the influence of great teachers and to control personnel costs. We invest in our faculty by providing a comprehensive, coherent program of professional development that focused on the needs of our students. We have a program of teacher evaluation which places a premium on demonstrated success in promoting student achievement.

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We have a culture of accountability that celebrates teaching excellence, provides assistance to those who need improvement and deals forthrightly with those who prove incapable of meeting our standards for quality teaching.

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3. Organizational Efficiency We will pursue alternatives to the districts present organizational arrangements that will promote greater economic efficiencies while preserving educational quality.

Indicators of Success We will explore the creation of a regional school district that would result in a reduction of administrative and overhead expenses for schools in the lower Naugatuck Valley. We will examine the feasibility of closing Derby High School and tuitioning our students out to neighboring high schools. We will consider reorganizing our elementary schools such that all students in grades K-2 are served in one school and all students in grades 3-5 in the other. We will consider closing one of our four school facilities and consolidating enrollment in the remaining three buildings.

4. Family & Community Partnerships Parents and other citizens will be actively engaged as partners in the work of the Derby Public Schools. Indicators of Success Our schools go out of their way to be welcoming to families and other visitors. We encourage community volunteerism and mentoring in our schools. We have active partnerships with area businesses, community organizations and institutions of higher education. We promote an appreciation for the cultural diversity that characterizes our city. We communicate with all stakeholders in a timely, effective and continuous manner.

5. Student Wellbeing We will ensure a positive quality of life for every student. Indicators of Success Each of our schools evidences a safe, respectful, culturally aware learning environment.
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Our students feel a sense of safety and belonging in our schools.

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Our students experience the sense of empowerment that results from academic success. Our children and young people are recognized by their school and their community for their accomplishments. We teach and model good citizenship and respect for self and others We provide every student with the opportunity to engage in co-curricular activities. We promote appreciation for cultural diversity. We provide comprehensive guidance and counseling services to our students.

6. Generating Enrollment & Revenue We will seek opportunities to build enrollment and generate revenue by offering high quality programs that attract students from other communities. Indicators of Success

We offer one or more charter or magnet school programs that serve students from Derby and beyond and that generate revenue to the school district. We attract significant public grants and private philanthropy in support of school and district

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Appendices

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Committee Members:

Aisha DeAngelo Casey Picheco Diane Stroman Kurtyka Greg Gaillard Jack Walsh John Saccu Kimberly Krieger Pam Mangini Shelley Sheridan Smith Walt Mayhew

Andrew Mancini Crystal Parks Fran Thompson

Beth Colette David Morgan George

Laura Harris Jenny Ames Judy Szewczyk Laura Mutrie Robert Holt Steve Tracy

Henry Domurad Joe DiMartino Keith McLiverty Ron Conyers Tenicia Lois Knapton

Ken Marcucio (Informal member)

Workgroup Members:
Jenny Ames Henry Domurad Crystal Parks Jack Walsh Beth Colette Ken Marcucio Steve Tracy Pam Mangini Laura Harris Kayla Pinho Casey Pacheco Kimberly Krieger John Saccu Robert Holt David Morgan Laura Mutrie Lois Knapton Diane Stroman

Lorrie Driscoll

Southern Connecticut University Interns:

Georgina Tsangaridou Steve Clapp Heather Brown Val Karanxha Kristopher Boyle

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Core Idealogy-All Responses

All Responses Are Included In The Following Notes: Core Values1. As educators, we value relentless commitment to innovation and visionary leadership 2. As educators, we hold ourselves to high standards of performance and behavior 3. As educators, we accept responsibility for the success of our students 4. We will cultivate the whole child by ensuring a safe environment supporting the development of their individual character, abilities and talents 5. We value academic achievement that promotes creative and critical thinking that motivates and prepares the whole child for global opportunities 6. We are committed to educating socially responsible citizens ready to function successfully and responsibly in a global community 7. We value the fostering and nurturing of integrity, high expectations, accountability and collaboration in order to sustain a dynamic democracy 8. The community plays a pivotal role in every childs development 9. We will partner with parents to support our students learning 10.The Derby Public Schools will establish clear goals, measure progress, and take responsibility for results 11.An educated and involved citizenry is essential to sustain a sound educational system 12.A supportive and respectful environment is essential for teaching the whole child and learning 13.Public schools will be open, honest, and ethical by sharing information with a commitment to being open and transparent with all stakeholders 14.We hold ourselves accountable for the success of our students 15.Public education is a shared responsibility of the entire community and the family plays the primary role in that process 16.All children have the right to the best education that will allow them to succeed

Core Purpose1. Derby Public Schools exist to realize high levels of academic achievement and personal well being of every child 2. To educate and prepare all children for lifelong success 3. We exist to prepare students for life after public school as competent and successful citizens

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Derby Public Schools Strategy Development Final Report 4. The core purpose of the Derby Public Schools is to ensure that our students have the highest quality education provided to them, with the goal of creating well-educated, responsible and productive members of society 5. Our core purpose is to ensure academic competence to create inspired and motivated learners 6. To provide each student with the skills and strategies necessary to ensure that each child becomes a successful, productive, responsible and respectful member of the community 7. To unify the stakeholders in such a way as to provide high expectations, integrity, accountability and collaboration with the Public School System 8. To provide all students with equitable educational opportunities in order that they become competent and successful in a global economy

Core Competencies1. Quality, professional development 2. Individualized, data-driven instruction 3. Standards based curriculum development 4. Proactive support services 5. Identify and assess what students know and what motivates them in order to provide curriculum and programs that address their developmental and learning needs, capabilities and interests 6. Establish a metric in order to evaluate and monitor child development and instructional programs of the educational system 7. Intellectually stimulating and challenging curriculum that is culturally responsive 8. Cultivate the whole child 9. Establish and maintain a technologically competent staff coupled with an infrastructure that supports on-going advances in technology 10.Ability to communicate 11.Technology 12.Effective teaching that incorporates motivation, student engagement and constructive feedback 13.Holistic development of students as individuals 14.Effective relationships and interpersonal skills 15.Relevance 16.Rigor

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SWOT Analysis and Vision Statement Development ENVISIONED FUTURE The Planning Committee members divided into three groups and were asked to develop a vision statement that would describe how they would like others to see the Derby Public Schools. They were asked to also develop 2-3 vivid descriptors that would illustrate how the Vision would look if attained. Vision Statements: Statement A: The Derby Public Schools Will Empower Every Student to Achieve Individual Success, Academically, Personally and Socially Vivid Descriptors: 1. Challenging Academics based on Clearly Stated and Consistent Expectations 2. Creating a Safe Atmosphere that Fosters Independence 3. Promoting a Sense of Belonging within our Schools and Community Statement B: Derby Public Schools Recognized for High Achievement and Critical Thinking, Preparing Students for Competitive Colleges and Careers Vivid Descriptors: 1. High Scores: CMT/CAPT/SAT 2. High Motivation/Engagement 3. High Quality Instruction (effective) -Select, Develop, Evaluate Standards 4. High Satisfaction and Support from Parents and Community 5. High Percentage of Students Admitted to Competitive Colleges and Careers Statement C: The Derby Public Schools will empower all students to achieve and succeed. Vivid Descriptors: 1. Dedicated and Responsible Staff 2. Innovative Curriculum
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3. Motivated Students 4. Supported and Involved Community

Discussion with the Committee on the need to have a more global statement that steers clear of what will be done and more closely aligns on how we would want others to see us resulted in two statements that should be considered: 1. The Derby Public Schools Relentlessly Prepares All Students for High Achievement and Success in a Competitive Society 2. The Derby Public School District is the Preeminent Provider of Public Education in Connecticut Some discussion points included the idea that the vision statement should reach beyond what we think we can achieve to what we aspire to be. It was also noted that all vivid descriptors would t either of the statements and should be included.

NOTES FROM THE SWOT ANALYSIS The following chart represents the information gathered through a SWOT analysis in which two groups identied the strengths, weaknesses of the Derby Public Schools as well as the opportunities and threats the District has before it. STRENGTHS
Our Students The Intimacy of the Schools Dedicated, Caring and Committed Staff Small District

WEAKNESSES
Student Turnover

OPPORTUNITIES

THREATS

To Provide Excellent State and Federal Programs That Attract Regulation and Funding Students from Out of Town Large Class Size To Bring Back Pride and A Unmotivated and Positive Image To Derby Directionless Student Educational Apathy in Room for Improvement Students Leaving District to the Community Attend Other Schools Transient Population Old vs. New East vs. West Finances Lack of Revenue Stream Curriculum Real Estate (City has little geographical room to grow for increased tax base through home ownership or business development) 61 Lack of Community Development

A Data Collection System That Allows For Timely Response to Data Small Community Small District To Reshape the Educational Landscape (how we provide the education) Diverse Population in Imbalance of Diversity Continued Professional Schools and Community in Elementary Schools Development Lack of Resources

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In reviewing the SWOT responses, we determined that there were some common concepts that included: 1. Financial Resources-The need to look at and grow revenue in new ways 2. Community and Student Apathy 3. Curriculum-the need to re-evaluate: -the limited honors level program that limits access to 30 students when we need all students to be challenged to Excel -Class size and the impact it has on student achievement 4. Mobility of students in and out of the District makes evaluation challenging them to succeed. Need to develop a solution. It was also suggested that we should strive to improve student achievement regardless of when they begin with us. They should show growth from the time they enter until they leave. Three initial thoughts issues resulting from the discussion were identied and included: 1. The effective and adequate use of resources 2. The engagement of the community in the education of Derbys children 3. The development of a educational systems that will support the mission of the District

Data Sources
Community, Population and Educational Data was gathered and presented to Committee members by Southern Connecticut University Doctoral Student Interns. Derby City Financial Position and Process was provided by Keith McLiverty, Treasurer, City of Derby. The State Department of Education Provided Information on Regionalization and Cooperative Agreements 62

Derby Public Schools Strategy Development Final Report A Variety of Research Documents Were Provided to Committee Members Regarding Certain Goals They Developed and are included with the work plans.

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