• Clear Vision and Focus

The district strongly articulates a focus on student achievement as its primary work. Clear plans and systems aligned to that vision are developed to address increasing performance for all students. The vision is integral and embedded in daily practice and is the driver of improvement by all staff members. The culture of the organization is purposefully developed and protected. We operate under the belief that clarity precedes competence. Therefore, expectations will be clearly articulated and every effort will be made to ensure that all staff have a common understanding of those expectations.

• High Expectations: Growth Mindset

The district ensures that explicit, rigorous standards are in place for student learning with all stakeholders confident that success is attainable. All members of the organization hold themselves and each other to high standards of performance and professionalism. We understand that we are all un-finished in that we approach our work with a growth mindset. We operate with the mindset of personal and professional reflection, we seek feedback, and we set and monitor goals and adjust to the challenges that we face daily! These expectations are pervasively evident and understood by all with a commitment to providing a timely response and/or adjustment when goals are not met.

• District-Wide Ownership ;and Accountability

The district leadership recognizes and accepts responsibility for all current levels of performance and transparently interacts with stakeholders to plan and implement improvement initiatives. The district is engaged in continuous review of systemic practices to ensure effective impact on critical areas of need. We do not operate under a “gotcha” culture. However, we are honest, trustworthy, and do what we say we are going to do. Our accountability is always holding ourselves and those we work with to “our best self”.

• Act Now: Sense of Urgency

The district, compelled by the intolerance of failure and dissatisfaction with deficits of the current state, sets a priority and presses for rapid action to change ineffective practices and processes that impede student success.

• Continuous Improvement through Operational Flexibility

The district permits the shifting of resources, processes, and practices in response to the critical needs that have been identified through an evaluation of our current programs and the continuous improvement process. Systems are clear, efficient, and effective but allow for flexibility when needed.