Wendy Anderson

The meeting included the presentation of Shining Star awards to recognize staff contributions. A Spotlight on Excellence segment highlighted the use of story-making and playful inquiry in the curriculum at the Carpenter Pre-Primary center. The Board approved the district's Strategic Plan. Discussions were held regarding a proposal to launch a new virtual and alternative school program aimed at improving student retention and meeting diverse learning needs. Furthermore, the Board received a comprehensive facility planning assessment report, which outlined the projected capital improvement needs and financial considerations for district facilities over the next decade.

This document outlines the desired profile of a Midland Public Schools graduate, categorizing key attributes into four pillars: Future-Ready, Locally & Globally Connected, Responsible, and Resilient. Graduates are envisioned as being career- and life-skilled, critical thinkers, effective communicators, and possessing a growth mindset, prepared for their post-secondary future. They are also expected to be open-minded, engaged citizens who can collaborate and build strong relationships, respecting people and community. Furthermore, graduates are characterized by their accountability, independence, motivation, and adaptability, creativity, empathy, and reflectivity, enabling them to navigate change, learn from setbacks, and contribute positively.

This Strategic Framework for Midland Public Schools outlines a commitment to fostering a safe, innovative, and student-centered learning environment where every learner can achieve their full potential. The framework is built upon key values of Excellence, Belonging, Accountability, and Collaboration. It identifies core priorities and objectives across four main areas: Academic Excellence & Student Experience (including instructional excellence, technology integration, future-focused programming, and whole child wellbeing), Collaborative Culture (transparent communication, strong partnerships, culture of belonging, and team excellence), Operational Excellence (financial stewardship and continuous improvement), and Infrastructure & Facilities (comprehensive facility planning and safety & security). The overarching vision is to prepare graduates with the knowledge, skills, and character necessary for personal success and positive community impact.

The board meeting included public comment regarding opposition to free pre-K programs and their impact on facilities and safety concerns for future bond proposals. A primary action item involved the recommended expulsion of a student, with discussion following regarding support services provided to expelled students. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a strategic planning workshop, reviewing and refining drafts of the Profile of a Successful Graduate, which centered on four themes: future ready, locally and globally connected, resilient, and responsible. Discussions also covered the mission, vision, and values statements, with particular attention given to the value of "Trust" and considering alternatives like "Integrity" or focusing on earned outcomes. The emerging strategic framework was presented, detailing four key priority areas: Academic Excellence and Student Experience (including discussion on explicitly mentioning AI tools), Collaborative Culture, Operational Excellence, and Infrastructure and Facilities. Next steps for strategic plan implementation, including drafting SMART goals and developing resource and marketing plans, were outlined. Finally, an update was provided on the formation and initial activities of the facility planning steering team.

This document outlines the strategic planning framework for MPS, aiming to create a safe, innovative, and student-centered learning community that prepares graduates with the knowledge, skills, and character to achieve personal success and positively impact their communities. Guided by values of excellence, belonging, trust, and collaboration, the plan focuses on four strategic priorities: Academic Excellence & Student Experience, Operational Excellence, Infrastructure & Facilities, and Collaborative Culture. These priorities encompass objectives such as advancing academic growth, integrating technology, enhancing staff development, comprehensive facility planning, and fostering strong community partnerships.