for Meridian

MERIDIAN SCHOOL DISTRICT
STRAGEGIC PLAN GOALS – PROGRESS REPORT
May 16, 2007

ACADEMIC: Focus on district-wide improvement of student learning through effective leadership and staff development in curriculum, instruction and assessment; include effective integration of technology.

1. Develop clearly defined and accessible K-12 curriculum outline which shows continuity across the grade levels and meets district and state standards.
   
2. Make curriculum flexible and offer performance-based assessment to allow each student to progress at his/her own pace.
   
3. Offer an increased variety of instructional options and class offerings (for example, foreign language, vocational, technology, the arts) to meet the needs and interests of students at all ability levels.
   
4. Develop a district-wide assessment and accountability plan that is aligned with the district curriculum.
   

Progress toward Goal

• Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment
• Policy review and development of curriculum process/Social Studies Committee/IMC/Reading Curriculum Committee 6-8/Language Arts Committee /Science Committee
• Staff development focus on differentiation and use of data
• K-3 Performance-based progress report system
• District Assessment Team activated/ District Assessment Plan currently being revised
• MAP implemented
• Data base for student assessment implemented
• Administrative staff development efforts around “leadership for differentiation”
• Secured $10,000 grant for expanding AP offerings at high school
• Advanced Placement courses have been introduced at MHS (English and Math)
• Expanding/refining enrichment programs (including 2003 summer school)
• School Improvement Plan process (SIP/TAP) is moving forward
• Title I Schoolwide Plan in process
• IRPS School Improvement Plan completed; School Improvement Plans for other schools to be completed by June 2004
• New Social Studies Curriculum materials purchased and implemented for 2003-2004; new Grades 6-8 Reading Curriculum materials purchased and implemented for 2003-2004; New MHS Spanish Curriculum materials purchased and implemented for 2003-2004
• Secured 21st Century Grant to provide after school programs to strengthen academic performance
• MHS Senior Project developed and included as graduation requirement for class of 2006
• Summer School for 2004 to include many enrichment opportunities
• Staff focus on Grade Level Expectations for Reading and Math across the district
• District-wide accountability plan is a special focus of attention and discussion for administration and Board during 2004-2005 school year; plans are developing for the formation of a task force with staff, board and parent representation to further process and develop this system.
• Science Curriculum Committee planning recommendations for curriculum adoption for Spring 2005
• Math Curriculum Committee studying in preparation for curriculum development year in 2005-2006 and implementation in 2006-2007
• District Curriculum is posted to district website in easy-to-read format; assessment and instruction components are also posted.
• District Assessment Plan is defined and published.
• Work on implementation of Student Learning Plans is currently in progress
• School Improvement Plans completed at each building; ongoing efforts to review and update these plans are being made.
• Title IIA Grant supports use of Math coach to help improve math instruction practices (2005)
• High school credit retrieval program implemented
• LASER Science Strategic Plan developed and adopted; implementation underway
• Creation of new courses at high school to support students in meeting academic standards (grades 9 and 10)
• Doubled the number of AP course offerings at the high school to four (4); fifth teacher qualified/prepared to teacher AP courses (2005-2006)
• Working to implement individual student learning plans for students not meeting standards as a first step in an accountability system
• TIP (Technology Integration Project) provides training/hardware/software for six teachers in district (2005-2006)
• Title I Schoolwide program in 2nd year at IRPS; in “study year” at MMS (05-06)
• SAT (Student Assistance Team) approach provides implementation of consistent “teaming” process across district for assessing special student needs and identifying appropriate interventions/modifications (2005)
• Use of MAP data at IRPS and TMCE at mid-year to note progress and modify instructional approach for remainder of year (2006)
• Doubled the number of AP course offerings at MHS; 5th teacher prepared (2004-2006)
• Increased instructional time at MMS by 30 minutes per day (Sept. 2005)
• Changes/improvements to the program for Highly Capable students (2004-2006)
• Staff participation in Whatcom/Skagit County Math Consortium (2005-2006); integration of science/math/reading (e.g. Shaun Bryan)
• Continued participation in NCOSP Science Partnership. Report on Science Strategic Plan due at July Board meeting (2006).
• Meridian Parent Partnership started in Feb. 2006 with 40 students.
• MHS work on Accreditation and School Improvement Plan. Accreditation site visit scheduled for May 16, 2006. When approved by visitation team, State Board will act to approve on June 5, 2006.
• Accountability Policy Study Team formed November 2006.
• Meridian Parent Partnership Program expanded with increased enrollment for fall 2006 at approximately 120 students.
• Received state grant to enhance high school academic support program; aimed at supporting students who need assistance to meet learning standards on WASL. (fall 2006)
• District Assessment Plan review to begin (2006-2007).
• Development and improvement of math and science curriculum continues (2006-2007).
• Accountability Policy Study Team developed work plan and timeline (April 2007)
• High School Graduation Requirements policy and procedure modified to strengthen technology education for all high school 9th graders and improve the Science curriculum for 9th graders. (Spring 2007)

COMMUNITY: Promote effective two-way communication between the school district and the community to build and maintain an on-going partnership.

1. Establish school-based site councils at each building (parents, students, school personnel and community members).
2. Educate parents regarding their child’s learning continuum.
3. Provide opportunities for parent volunteers at all grade levels.
4. Utilize community resources to help develop extended learning opportunities.

Progress toward Goal

• Administrative Cabinet developed draft Site Council Guide/Approved by Board (2003)
• Four Site Councils have been formed and have received district training; Site Council Plans have been approved by Board for all schools. (2004)
• Efforts to educate parents regarding student learning continuum include pre-school development, K-5 revised progress reports, parent information meetings
• Volunteer Coordinators are active at each building K-8 (2003-2005)
• Extended Learning Coordinator is developing and expanding options (2003-2005)
• Parent meetings for Highly Capable Program, Bullying Policy, Measures of Academic Progress assessment system, PTA WASL information
• Meridian Matters issue focused on parent/community involvement (2004)
• Parent/Teacher Conference Committee completed study and provided recommendations (2004)
• MHS/MMS daily bulletins sent via e-mail to parents (2003-2005)
• Working to expand use of e-mail to communicate with parents district-wide; daily e-mail communication between school and home regarding student performance at IRPS (2004-2005)”
• On-line grade reports available at MHS through Basmati system and at MMS through on-line system (2002-2005)
• Levy Advisory Committee in November 2003 and February 2004 with broad participation; community forum on levy for March 1, 2004
• Meridian Center for Children and Families established through I-728 program; Special Education/I728 Preschool program has grown (2002-2005)
• 21st Century Grant and Readiness to Learn have built capacity for community partnerships (2003-2005)
• Community involvement and support visible through 2004 school levy efforts (community forum, levy advisory committee, levy support committee)
• I-728 Plan to be reviewed by community/staff group on June 2, 2004
• Daily e-mail bulletins regularly distributed to parents at middle school and high school level; monthly newsletters also distributed by e-mail at IRPS (2005)
• Active site councils continue to function at each building to include parental involvement (2004-2005)
• Collaboration with Laurel Grange and now the Rotary Club regarding a possible FFA/Vo-Ag barn project; Laurel Grange will host the statewide Grange convention at MHS in June 2005.
• Establishment of various committees to include parent and community involvement continues. Examples: calendar committee, school facilities maintenance committee, long-range facilities plan advisory committee, grant committee (2004-2005)
• Calendar Committee survey of parents November 2005
• MCCF (Meridian Center for Children and Families) active with quarterly meetings scheduled and presentations provided for PTA (2005)
• Ongoing support for students and families is provided through RTL (Readiness to Learn) program (2005)
• Developing Title I Parent Involvement policy proposal; policy adopted (2006)
• Home School outreach program under development; initial startup planned for January 2006
• Home School outreach program (Meridian Parent Partnership Program or MP3) began operation at the start of the second semester (February 1, 2006). Approximately 40 students and their families are engaged in this program.
• IRPS report card rubric revised (parent information; ongoing) (2005-2006)
• FFA Barn permit secured; fund raising nearing completion; management plan under development with staff and booster club participation (March 2006)
• Senior Project implementation; parent and community involvement; community service (2005-2006)
• Salmon Enhancement program at TMCE a community outreach project (2006)
• TechReach program at MMS links female students with community members in technology-related learning (2005-2006)
• Americorps program at IRPS to strengthen reading skills (2005-2006)
• COMPASS after school program at IRPS/TMCE (2005-2006)
• Multicultural Festival at MMS organized by PTA/staff (2006)
• Title I Family Night at IRPS (2006)
• Strengthening Families program to promote parenting skills (2005-2006)
• MMS school-wide recycling program
• MMS gym scheduling systems for community groups (2005-2006)
• MHS Graduation Project Celebration included large group of community members as panelists for project presentations (2006)
• Meridian Parent Partnership Program expanded with increased enrollment (fall 2006)
• FFA Barn construction completed on building shell. Work to provide water and power and construct interior fixtures is started. (fall 2006)

FACILITIES: Continue long-range planning for all district facilities.

1. Develop plans for systematic maintenance, repair and improvement of all district facilities.
2. Develop long-range facility plan which effectively addresses potential residential and commercial growth.
3. Provide a safe campus environment at all schools through facility design and implementation of an appropriate crisis response plan.

Progress toward Goal

• Ready to form committees for maintenance/repair and long-range facility planning (2003-2004)
• In process of gathering information from other districts regarding long-range facility planning (2003-2004)
• District Emergency Response Procedures completed and disseminated/Crisis Response Guide completed (2002-2003)
• Met with local fire officials to work on establishing coordinated efforts for emergency response (2003)
• District Safety Committee activated; Accident Prevention Plan completed (2003)
• Risk Management inspections and response (2002-2005)
• Review and revisions to Crisis Response Guide November 2003
• Obtained technical support from ESD 189 to improve crisis response planning (2004)
• “Prepared Response” data system developed at MHS to prepare information for use by emergency responders (2003-2004)
• Obtained $18,000 grant to support development of long-range facility plan (2004)
• Obtained $20,000+ grant to support new key/lock/hardware system for high school facility; bids received/installation is scheduled and completed as of January 2005
• Established Facilities Advisory Committee to assist in development of Long-Range Facilities Plan; process will include completion of a Study and Survey; selection of consultant to facilitate the process is currently in progress (Feb. 2005)
• Established School Facilities Maintenance Committee is formed; first meeting scheduled for Feb. 2005; committee will help connect school and community around proper care of existing plant and facilities
• Established Emergency Response Plan Committee to develop and refine the districts plan; committee work in progress (2005)
• Long Range Facility Plan taking shape with regular committee meetings and help of consultants November 2005
• School Facilities Maintenance Plan complete and ready for Board approval November 2005; approved
• Emergency Response Plan work continues fall of 2005
• Attended workshops regarding emergency response plans and flu pandemic response issues; developing comprehensive family reunification system for use in emergency or crisis situations. (2006)
• Held community meetings regarding long range facilities plan development (2006); draft plan to be presented to Board in May 2006
• Plan is established for Parent Advisory Team at Meridian High School for 06-07.
• Board approved Long Range Facilities Plan (spring 2006); announcement to community regarding formation of advisory committee to begin work on implementation of plan (Meridian Matters fall 2006)
• District Emergency Response Plan in final stages of development; review with fire and law enforcement completed (fall 2006)
• Plan and schedule established to upgrade lighting in MMS Gymnasium (Spring/Summer 2007)

ADMINISTRATIVE: Continue to provide effective administrative leadership.

1. Develop responsible, long-range budgets for maintenance, support, and improvement of district facilities and for the purchase of needed instructional/technology materials.
2. Provide adequate staffing to support students, staff, and programs in alignment with district mission, vision and goals.
3. Develop a process for periodic review and updating of Strategic Plan.

Progress toward Goal

• Board has established budget parameters and guidelines placing a high priority on providing appropriate instructional materials (2002-2005)
• Administration is focusing on use of newsletter, website, and presentations to parents and community members to effectively communicate district financial information
• Plan is in place to provide quarterly reports to Board and annual review and updates to the committee regarding the Strategic Plan; most recent committee update was held March 16, 2004
• Staffing is provided for I-728 Academic Support/After School Programs; RTL Staff; School Nurse; Drug/Alcohol Prevention and Intervention Counselor; Classroom Music; Computer Education
• Established Grants Advisory Committee and developed grant proposal procedures to prioritize and focus grant seeking efforts effectively (2003-2004)
• Four-year levy approved April 27, 2004 with incremental increases in revenue to support and maintain ongoing district programs and services
• Next Strategic Plan Committee annual meeting set for March 2005; periodic reports to board are ongoing
• Long Range Facilities Plan and School Facilities Maintenance program will focus budget planning (2005)
• Strategic Plan continues to guide and shape district decisions 2005-2006
• Budget constraints are creating challenges, but priority services/programs are preserved
• Administrative Team focused on improving academic leadership skills to help increase student learning
• Next Strategic Plan Committee annual meeting planned for March 2006
• Technology Plan Committee formed and meeting to address technology needs of district (2006)
• Draft Technology Plan slated for presentation to Board in June, 2006.
• Board approved Long Range Facilities Plan (spring 2006); announcement to community regarding formation of advisory committee to begin work on implementation of plan (Meridian Matters fall 2006)
• District Emergency Response Plan in final stages of development; review with fire and law enforcement completed (fall 2006)
• Plan and schedule established to upgrade lighting in MMS Gymnasium (Spring/Summer 2007)

STAFF: Focus on staff to advance the mission.

1. Establish planning time, opportunities for collaboration, employee training and professional development to enrich student achievement and advance the mission of the district.
2. Communicate to the public the purpose and results of staff development.
3. Coach and mentor staff.
4. Honor staff professionalism and recognize staff achievements.

Progress toward Goal

• Staff Development Committee to develop district staff development plan is established – work in progress – near completion
• Administration working with MEA to find appropriate and effective ways to communicate purpose and results of staff development
• Teacher Assistance Program is in place; plans to work toward expanded teacher induction program are under discussion
• Collaboration on January WEA Rally (2003)
• Staff members have been nominated for, and received, awards/recognition
• Support for teachers who are working to attain advanced certification is provided
• Summer Sabbatical Grant program supports staff development focused on improvement of student learning
• Support is provided to assist Paraeducators in the process of meeting the NCLB Title I requirements for highly qualified status (2003-2005)
• ALCOA Grant and other grant funding is used to support focused staff development (2003-2004)
• New Employee orientation and additional contract day for new teacher support staff
• During 2004-2005 plan is being implemented to include special features at board meeting to highlight the accomplishments and contributions of employees
• Title IIA Grant supports use of Math coach to help improve math instruction practices (2005)
• MEA contract language adopted supporting staff development that directly aligns to the Strategic Plan (2005)
• Newsletter articles focus on staff development (2005)
• Expansion of Extended Learning Coordinator role to emphasize coaching/mentoring of teachers to improve student learning (2005)
• All Paraeducators in district have met “highly qualified” status under NCLB standards (2005)
• All Certificated staff currently meet “highly qualified” status under NCLB (2005)
• Change in LID planning process to establish a collaborative approach that will focus activities at building level on implementation of the adopted School Improvement Plan with district administrative support (2006)
• Teacher recognition planned for May 2006 Board meeting
• Continue use of district and school newsletters to provide information regarding staff development activities (2006)
• Staff development on Science Kits (2005-2006)
• Study-Lite groups activated at IRPS (2005-2006)
• High School Science Teacher Leader coaching other science core teachers (2005-2006)
• Classified employee recognition activities in March 2006
• “Core Competencies” for Paraeducators – In-district trainer 2006
• TMCE and MMS Grade Level teacher meetings scheduled regularly (2005-2006)
• Committees at MHS include Projects Committee, Accreditation Committee and School Climate Committee (2005-2006)
• High School Principal Dave Shockley recognized as Whatcom County League Principal of the Year (2005-2006)
• Summer Sabbatical Grant recipients recognized in ESD 189 newsletter; reports and presentations included in School Board meetings (fall 2006)
• “First Steps in Math” staff development provided for all district math teachers K-8.
• District provides support for new teachers to meet advanced certification standards (2003-2006)
• Steve Lawrence recognized as Outstanding Civic Educator – Board recognition (Spring 2007)