![Strategic Plan Logo in SMSD colors]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1739551402/smsdorg/awkdbvc1jktdbyvp294i/StrageticPlanWeb.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1739551402/smsdorg/awkdbvc1jktdbyvp294i/StrageticPlanWeb.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1739551402/smsdorg/awkdbvc1jktdbyvp294i/StrageticPlanWeb.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1739551402/smsdorg/awkdbvc1jktdbyvp294i/StrageticPlanWeb.jpg","width":834}])
The Shawnee Mission School District (SMSD) is making significant progress on the work of the Strategic Plan. Approved by the Board of Education on June 24, 2024, the Strategic Plan ensures that each student has a personalized learning plan to prepare them for college, careers, and life success. The plan was developed with input from hundreds of individuals from across the community, including staff, parents, students, and community members.
At a recent Board of Education meeting, Dr. Leigh Anne Neal, chief of early childhood education and sustainability, shared an update on the work that has taken place so far. The district has been moving forward quickly, with 15 Action Teams convening in Quarters 1 and 2 to begin implementing Year 1 priorities.
The Strategic Plan is built around six key strategies: Learning, Belonging, People, Technology, Mental Health, and Facilities. Action Teams, made up of staff, students, parents, and community members, are moving the work of these strategies forward.
Superintendent Dr. Schumacher emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, “This plan is our community’s plan. We need your voices and perspectives to make it a success.”
During the meeting, Action Team members presented updates on their work. Notable updates included:
- Interpersonal Skills Development – Dr. Neal, Dr. Matt Andersen, assistant director of curriculum and instruction, and Action Team members Karen King, community member, and Kate Harrenbruck, fourth grade teacher, shared strategies being discussed for implementation to ensure students develop strong interpersonal skills.
- Comprehensive Evaluation Process – Michelle Lord, director of elementary human resources, and Maggie Carter, instructional coach, discussed improvements to evaluating staff performance and support, highlighting how these efforts contribute to staff retention.
- Classified Staff Engagement – Judd Remmers, director of classified human resources, and Meagan Alexander, elementary school secretary, shared updates on strengthening the Superintendent’s Classified Advisory Council and improving classified staff data collection.
How to Get Involved: Join an Action Team!
Community participation is essential in shaping the future of SMSD. All are encouraged to apply or nominate individuals to serve on future Action Teams. Opportunities are available for staff, students, family members of students, and community members. Upcoming Action Teams will focus on:
- Learning: Professional learning for teachers to support student success
- Belonging: Equitable discipline policies, mentorship programs, and accessible communication
- People: Expanding mentorship opportunities for teachers
- Technology: Implementing evidence-based frameworks for instructional technology
To apply or to nominate someone for an Action Team complete the form here.
By joining an Action Team, community members can continue to help shape the direction of the district and ensure that every student receives the support and opportunities they need to achieve their personal best.
