Haverhill Public Schools Strategic Priorities
as developed by the Strategic Planning Subcommittee
for approval by the Haverhill School Committee
Priority 1: Engagement. Maintain a safe, supportive learning community in every school, promoting health and safety, a culture of learning, and respect for leaders and peers. Foster a diverse and inclusive learning community with active engagement and a sense of belonging for everyone. Engage student families and the community in promoting student success.
Priority 2: Literacy. Implement curriculum, teaching methods, and support resources needed to achieve reading proficiency for all students by Grade 3; promote wide participation in self-directed reading in upper grades; provide rigorous instruction in writing and communications; provide for high-level content comprehension in DESE curriculum areas. Evaluate performance and adapt methods as needed.
Priority 3: Academic excellence. Promote a culture of high expectations of academic achievement and growth for all student groups regardless of background or level of achievement; adopt evidence-based curriculum; identify, develop and support best teaching practices; consistently communicate high expectations; improve attendance and graduation rates to exceed comparable benchmarks.
Priority 4: Readiness for careers and citizenship. Prepare every student for college or career; prepare students for the responsibilities of citizenship and civic life; effectively implement civics and social sciences curriculum; promote awareness of current events; encourage in-school democratic processes and student-led group activities.
Priority 5: Effective financial management. Develop the district budget to support strategic priorities in line with individual school needs and budget targets; monitor spending to meet the budget; ensure timely notification and consideration of budget issues as they arise; adapt the budget to changing circumstances. Continue efforts to supplement state and city funding with grants.
