Winchester School Board Approves ‘Elevate 2030’ Strategic Plan
Winchester School Board Unanimously Adopts New Strategic Plan, Elevate 2030
WINCHESTER, VA — In a pivotal decision during its recent meeting, the Winchester School Board unanimously approved the adoption of a new five-year strategic plan, titled Elevate 2030. This initiative succeeds the previous strategic framework, Empower 2025, which is set to expire this year.
Elevate 2030 is structured around four primary goals aimed at enhancing the educational landscape for students, staff, families, and the broader community. These goals are designed to serve as a comprehensive framework for progressive educational objectives intended to foster a more effective learning environment.
The plan emphasizes the importance of “elevating learners” through several targeted objectives. This includes the implementation of a K-12 goal-setting framework, the design of personalized, project-based learning experiences, and the advancement of rigorous, inclusive instructional methods. These initiatives are geared toward promoting student development, a sense of belonging, and clear learning expectations, all of which are critical in preparing students for future challenges.
In parallel, Elevate 2030 seeks to “elevate staff” within the school division. Key initiatives outlined in this area involve the creation of an engaging and collaborative workplace, enhancing employee capacity and agency, and offering competitive benefits to promote work-life balance. Recognizing that staff well-being is integral to student success, these objectives aim to foster a thriving educational workforce.
Furthermore, the plan includes specific strategies to “elevate family and community” involvement in the educational process. This consists of initiatives designed to strengthen family connections and actively engage communities in supporting student achievement, recognizing that success in education often hinges on robust partnerships between schools and families.
Lastly, objectives under the goal of “elevating systems” focus on improving infrastructure and support services, ensuring safe and efficient facilities, and integrating reliable technological resources. The plan also emphasizes the importance of responsible financial management, aiming for transparency and accountability in resource allocation.
Superintendent Jason Van Heukelum commented on the significance of the new strategic plan, stating, “I think we’re really building on our last plan, which was, of course, Empower 2025. COVID-19, unfortunately, positioned itself at the onset of our previous plan and significantly impacted our aspirations regarding student voice and project-based learning. With Elevate 2030, we are doubling down on those ambitions and reinforcing our commitment to educational excellence.”
With the approval of Elevate 2030, Winchester Public Schools aims to create a more dynamic, inclusive, and effective educational environment over the next five years, setting a robust foundation for future academic and community achievements. This strategic vision reflects the school board’s commitment to adaptability and continuous improvement amid the evolving educational landscape.
