Communication

Community Conversations

By involving the community in transparent, non-judgemental conversations about existing gaps in student acheivement, the Superintendent can begin to crack long-existing walls that may exist. People must slowly discuss and investigate their own personal assumptions before sustainable change can occur.
 * Hold in-depth, non-judgemental conversations with instructional leaders and the administrative team. Why do the gaps exist? What, if any, current structures are in place to address these issues? What other community issues are out there that may effect student performance and must be addressed? What assumptions do the instructional leaders of the district have that are preventing certain groups from reaching proficiency?




 * Continue these conversations over time. Include local businesses and non-profits that can help provide needed services and support that may otherwise not be realistic.
 * Break large groups into smaller groups where valuable conversations can happen, without creating a "mob mentality."
 * Share data with the community and focus on the future. Be positive and remember that old views will take time and effort to change.