“The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.” — B.B. King

Kudos to the Strategic Planning Committee and Saco School Superintendent Dominic DePatsy for developing a strategic plan that focuses on the student achievement gap for those at the bottom; encouraging those with ambition and depth who are already at the top; and working to engage those in the middle to move up.

Its mission statement declares: “All students must have access to high quality teaching and rigorous learning opportunities. Parents, students, educators and community/ business members must ensure students are prepared for a global society.”

The plan was developed over the past year with a great deal of input from all stakeholders, and is an educational road map for the Saco school system over the next three years. The plan focuses on three principal goals:

• All students must read at grade level by the end of third grade and must progress toward rigorous literacy growth based on a personalized learning plan;

• All students must attain algebra readiness and proficiency in mathematical practices by the end of the eighth grade;

• Attract and maintain high-performing district employees.

Students, educators, parents and community/business are each stakeholders. Each stakeholder has a role to play in the achievement of these goals and the success of the plan.

This is a collaborative effort where there will need to be effective communication to keep everyone in the loop. The Saco School Department has committed to responsible use of resources and transparency with respect to finances, policies and student performance.

Each goal has an objective to Embrace, Engage and Empower. The plan looks at each student’s needs to be successful; works with parents to seek their input and involvement; provides access to research and best practices; and solicits input on the skills needed in the workplace. And, last but not least, to be a productive and active citizen in today and the future.

For teachers and staff, it requires an inviting classroom, coaching students to attain literacy requirements, ongoing professional development, communication and feedback from parents.

The strategic plan was presented in a public forum on May 31 at the Saco Middle School. For those who were unable to attend the meeting, copies of the plan are on the school website, sacoschools.org, or can be obtained at the school department’s central office.

Saco Citizens for Sensible Government encourages Saco parents, residents and businesses to get involved with our schools. Visit the School Department website, attend Board of Education meetings, keep abreast of the plan’s progress and see what is happening in the schools.

John Harking
Chairperson
Saco Citizens for Sensible
Government