ALLENTOWN, PA — The Allentown School District unveiled its new Strategic Plan to the public at a Special Committee of the Whole Meeting which will took place on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.
Due to anticipated excitement and a large crowd, this meeting was held in the Multi-Purpose Room of Brigadier General Anna Mae Hays Elementary School located at 1227 West Gordon Street, Allentown, PA, 18102.
“The comprehensive Strategic Plan, entitled, Lighting the Way: A Blueprint for Innovation and Excellence 2030 represents a love, hope, unwavering dedication, and investment in the 16,700 students and the 2,500 staff in the Allentown School District,” said Dr. Carol D. Birks, Superintendent / Chief Executive Officer of the Allentown School District. “This Strategic Plan sets the stage for the next decade and will focus on delivering strategic actions for defined goals aligned with our core values and our priorities of Academic Excellence, Safety & Whole Child Development, Creating Pathways for Tomorrow, Empowering Families: Strengthening Partnerships, Exceptional Workforce: Talent Management & Development, Organizational Efficiencies & Effectiveness, and Technology For Universal Learners.”
At the start of the 2023-2024 school year, the Allentown School District issued a Request for Proposal, in order to partner with an outside organization to develop a Strategic Plan. The District selected Insight into 2023 Education, which was board-approved on October 12, 2023. A Kick-Off event was held in November 2023 and the Steering Committee began to meet on a monthly basis starting in December 2023.
The development process prioritized creating a strategic plan that reflected the needs and voices of our entire learning community. Over the course of six months, more than 5,000 individuals completed surveys or participated in various focus groups and advisory committees that collaborated with student and community needs in mind.
This process resulted in a redefined Mission, Vision, and Core Values. Our Portrait of a Learner outlines the competencies and transferable skills essential to supporting students’ long-term success. Additionally, the plan includes clearly defined and attainable goals, strategies, and actions for the future.
“The community’s contributions and dedication have been instrumental in developing our plan, we are incredibly grateful to everyone who participated in the comprehensive stakeholder engagement process," continued Dr. Birks. “We get better together! All of our strengths are needed!”