RSU14 plans for the future through collaborative effort

By Lanet Hane

Students, parents, teachers, and administrators came together last week for a meal together and an evening of visioning for the future. The group was composed of individuals representing each school in the district and was the first of several conversations that will be taking place in the upcoming months as the district develops its Strategic Plan for the future.

The evening began with three different perspectives on what “Success for All” looks like, followed

by several activities to dive deeper into the complexities that are involved in creating an environment where all students can thrive.

Austin Norcia is one of five students who attended the workshop, and admits he was hesitant at first to attend, but by the end of the evening was glad he chose to participate,  “This workshop made me realize I actually have a voice in my community, one that actually matters and will be heard.”

Tedi Hassapelis, a Windham High School Junior, agreed with this sentiment, “It was a very eye-opening experience and I am very grateful to have been invited. I was pleased to find that everybody was very accepting and willing to hear the opinions of others, including myself and other students. I have a greater understanding of what success for all truly means and I'm proud to have such an amazing community. Truly a memorable experience with consideration for all perspectives of the district.”

To sum up the evening, groups were tasked with creating their picture of a graduate and everything that might include.

The next step of the process includes developing focus groups to consider the ideas and thoughts discussed in the workshop, with several more steps before an initial Strategic Plan is developed. The district hopes to have a plan drafted before the start of the 2020-2021 school year.