Create a Shared Vision
A shared vision is not about what we are, but what we want to be. It is about the kind of school system we are trying to create for the future. A vision is future-focused and seeks to shape events rather than just letting things happen. The vision will guide a district to create a clear mission and target areas of continuous improvement. It is an opportunity for the school board to exercise their leadership on behalf of children because it leads to a focus on targets that result in well defined goals. It is the vision that motivates and brings about a sense of belonging for all stakeholders.
Adopting a vision for the district should be done in partnership with individuals from outside the school system as well. A group that should never be overlooked is the students. They will be honest and remarkably eloquent with their input as to how they learn best, what engages them in the learning process, and how they see the importance of their future.
