Superintendent Entry Plan
Desoto ISD Academic Excellence By Design
Kimberly Walters, Ed.D.
I believe....
- I believe that all students can learn at high levels given the appropriate amount of time and supports specific to their individual learning needs.
- I believe that the performance gap exists between racial and ethnic groups was socially constructed and systemically maintained and that if not confronted will have a long-lasting impact on our society
- I believe using students’ experiences and backgrounds as strengths and equipping them with skills transferable to the path of their choice will ensure that all learners graduate and experience postsecondary success.
- I believe the education of our youth relies on cultivating key partnerships with all stakeholders in the community.
DON'T DEMAND FROM OTHERS WHAT YOU DON'T MODEL.
Creating Better Learning Opportuities for ALL Learners
As an accomplished, visionary leader with 18 years of teaching, planning and administration experience in public education, I am well prepared to lead Desoto ISD in accomplishing their goals and objectives.
While continuing to honor Desoto’s rich heritage, over the next 100 days, I look forward to the feedback this plan will assist us in our combined efforts to support the students and community of Desoto ISD.
ENTRY PLAN GOALS
This entry plan contains four comprehensive goals and addresses my activities within the first 100 days as superintendent.
GOAL 1
To develop a trusting, productive and collaborative relationship with the Board to ensure an effective and orderly transition of leadership, keeping the focus on continuous improvement and increased student achievement for each student.
1.1 Hold a Board retreat to discuss and determine areas of focus, communication protocols, roles and responsibilities, norms of behavior and interaction, expectations for the first year, and agenda setting.
1.2. Share my 100-Day Entry Plan with the Board for input, feedback, suggestions, and guidance.
1.3 Schedule individual meetings with each Board member for one-on-one discussions about the district and to continue to cultivate relationships. Establish regular meetings with each Board member.
1.4 Collaborate and establish the Superintendent Evaluation process, procedures, timelines and goals.
Goal 2
Evaluate organizational effectiveness and efficiency to ensure dedicated support of campus teaching and learning to provide equitable learning experiences for all learners and develop a robust system of continuous improvement and accountability through strategic planning built upon the needs and strengths of Desoto ISD.
2.1 Evaluate/create a framework to assist campuses in implementing programs
2.2 Develop an assessment system to evaluate and improve programs
2.3 Implement an accountability plan for programs
GOAL 3
To create opportunities for me to listen to a multitude of stakeholders to gain a comprehensive understanding of all key aspects of the Desoto Independent School District while increasing community and district involvement and trust.
3.1 Establish a strong digital and social media presence, including Spanish social media and website
3.2 Increase pathways to fully engage the community through increased advertising, volunteers, mentors and business partners
3.3 Improve communication and access with community resources engagement
3.4 Participate in community town hall meetings and campus visits and seek a variety of listening and learning opportunities to meet staff and community members
GOAL 4
Ensure that all schools in Desoto ISD are safe and secure and have warm and welcoming climates that foster learning.
4.1 Review and analyze existing school climate survey data to identify best practices and areas for growth
4.2 Review existing student attendance, tardiness, suspension, expulsion and truancy data, policies, regulations, and practices.
4.3 Review and Assess district/campus emergency operating plans and procedures
4.4. Community focus groups with parents and staff members.
ENTRY PLAN TIMELINE
The entry plan process extends formally over a six-month period and is sequenced into four phases:
• Phase 1: Introduction/Transition
(July – August 2018)
• Phase 2: Listening
(September – October 2018)
• Phase 3: Making Sense
(October – November 2018)
• Phase 4: Sharing and Planning
(November – December 2018)