The Coffee County School System recently participated in a strategic planning process in partnership with Ford Next Generation Learning (FNGL). With the initial planning started in August of 2017, the final product was completed in June of 2018. The strategic plan will provide a focus for the district’s work to support the mission of Destination Graduation for College, Career, and Life and the vision of creating a stronger community through an equitable and excellent education for every student over the next five years.
Partnering with FNGL brought a unique and comprehensive community approach to the process to increase community prosperity shared by all; a strengthened talent pipeline; young people prepared for college careers, lifelong learning and leadership; educational equity and justice for all; and the capacity for all students to contribute and go further. FNGL infuses high expectations and academic rigor of college preparatory academic programs with real-world relevance and rigor of career and technical education. Students choose from among career academies across a variety of sectors that drive economic growth in the community.
The planning process was initially started by holding a community conversation with approximately 75 participants including business leaders, teachers, parents, students and other stakeholders. The purpose was to ensure that the school district understood the vision that the Coffee County community has for the school system now and in the future. Conversations were held with students at the high school and middle school level, business and industry, city and county elected officials, the faith community, South Georgia State College and Wiregrass Georgia Technical College.
The system also spoke with parent and school advisory councils, the superintendent’s teacher advisory council, other individuals and groups to share the plan as it evolved and receive feedback. The four Focus Areas that the district has established are Teaching and Learning, which prepares students with strong academic and technical skills foundations. Workforce and Life, which purposely prepares the students with the skills to navigate life beyond graduation. People and Culture, which provides a welcoming environment and positive culture for students and employees. Family and Community, which engages families, community members, and civic organization as active partners. Financial responsibility will be infused in all areas.
“With the plan completed, now the work begins,” stated Dr. Morris Leis, during a recent celebratory luncheon with key stockholders. “We are so appreciative of everyone that contributed to the finished product. It takes all of us working together for the success of our students. We are now ready to implement our plan.”