May 4th Strategic Planning Session
Our 2nd Strategic Planning Session was very well attended with 10 community members present. We continued a discussion on what we value, what we do well, what we want to continue.
Ron Johnson described the activity of completing a SWOT analysis - and our conversations aligned with this process of identifying our STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES, and THREATS.
STRENGTHS:
Music program : Banner County has a rich history of musical excellence. All students participate in instrumental or choral music for PK to 12. Our current program has expanded to including Show Choir.
Students are exposed to meaningful learning to help them explore career and college options. Personal Finance class required. Junior high exploratory introduces students to FCS (Food and Consumer Science), Shop, Entrepreneurship, and Art. Campus visits, guest speakers, and 1:1 counseling support student decision making.
Sports: Multi-Sport Skills in volleyball and basketball should continue. This activity provides access to elementary students.
Student of the Month program source of pride and develops student self- esteem and connection to school.
Flexibility for student programs, including online course options, individualized learning plans for students who are interested in work placements, shadowing, dual credit courses.
Entrepreneurship class (school shop) with BCS Gear for sale.
WEAKNESSES:
Transportation for after school programs, clubs, etc. limit student access and participation.
Facilities limit participation and district hosting of events: track under water for most of the season, Old Gym in need of upgrade for wrestling (need roll up mats), more court space needed for district meets.
Not all seniors are ready to make post-graduation decisions/plans.
OPPORTUNITIES:
Explore options for more sports/club activities at the elementary level; Girls on the Run or similar programs will engage students in sport activities that are not necessarily team sports. Car pooling may be an option.
Option Enrichment Fridays (OEF) will include other physical activities, such as golf, hiking, yoga, dance, and gymnastics.
Explore Gear Up program, Connect the Dots (NE Extension), strengthen college partnerships (WNCC, CSC). OEFs can expand career and college exploration; help students understand the application and financing options.
Explore grant funding and sponsorship for All Weather Track.
Explore building or renovating for a Community Center: function room for community to use, fitness center, licensed child care facility, gymnasium to host district events, meeting rooms, commercial kitchen. Potential for Community Development grants and county partnership.
Use social media, website, newsletter to promote school activities and increase community awareness of programs.
Invite community members to volunteer as readers with lower elementary students.
Convenience store, gas, student run?
THREATS:
Funding.
(This discussion to be continued!)