Willoughby-Eastlake Schools working to connect with community
Sep. 19—The Willoughby-Eastlake City School District intends to engage with the community during the district's first 100 days of school through several committees.
"Our 100-day entry and engagement plan — we're committed to building structures so that we can have ongoing conversations with our community and beyond," said Superintendent Patrick Ward, noting that the district's 100th day of school will be in November.
The district will soon start its Parent Superintendent Advisory Committee, which is an opportunity for Ward to connect with parents involved in booster groups across the district, as well as some of the district's organizations.
"Invitations are going out to hear from them in a regular fashion," he said. "The Community Advisory Committee — we did meet with someone from Westlake who's been part of a similar committee. We're planning on launching our version on Oct. 23."
The Community Advisory Committee is intended to empower the community to have a voice and be engaged in positively impacting education for Willoughby-Eastlake students, Ward said.
Additionally, Ward has put together a Student Superintendent Advisory Committee.
"I get to meet and eat pizza with students, and hear what's on their hearts and minds to talk about how we can make sure their school is preparing them for their future," he said.
In August, the School Board discussed the district's strategic direction and shared insights on the priorities, as well as the focus for the year ahead. The meeting took place on the first day of school, which was Aug. 21. According to Ward, it was a remarkable start.
"We hit every building and there was a lot that we should be proud of — energy and positivity," he said.
The 7,200 students who currently make up the district, which is slightly up from a year ago, is important for the district to acknowledge, Ward said.
The strategic plan as it currently exists identifies several key areas of focus and importance to the district and community. They are academic excellence and student wellness, operation safety and fiscal responsibility, sustained community partnerships and engagement and technology and digital innovation.
"Collaborative culture is also in the strategic plan," Ward said. "The work this year is to listen to the community through Coffee Talks and through engagement. Part of the work is what are the skills and experiences our students should have after 13 years in Willoughby-Eastlake Schools so they can be successful in their world."
