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Ahead of Tomorrow
In an ever-evolving world, where change is the only constant, it's imperative for organizations to chart a course for the future that is not only adaptive but also focused on improvement. "Ahead of Tomorrow" represents our strategic plan, a roadmap that guides us towards a better year, a better future, and beyond. Learn what we're doing to make our organization better, stronger.
How do we look beyond
tomorrow?
We encounter common difficulties. However, we are certain that we can make a significant worldwide effect while still upholding the values and culture of CSU. Through long-term, fundamental commitments to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility; indigenous engagement; mental health; global engagement; and sustainability, our Strategic Plan outlines our path toward 2030. This Strategic Plan and our fundamental values together build a mosaic for the future based on our distinctive approach to teaching and learning, research excellence, community partnership, and campus operations.
The exceptional history of Calvin State University is a reflection of its bold expansion and innovative spirit. In fewer than 5 years, our students, postdocs, teachers, staff, and community have constructed a daring institution.
Our Values
Our values shape our core mission and vision here at Calvin State University. Our values here at Calvin State University are what empower us to do what we do and to push the boundaries of exploration and discovery.
Diversity,
Inclusion,
Equity
We believe and support everyone, no matter their background, identity, and ambitions. We believe that everyone has a potential to spark positive change, and we're there to support.
Driven by
Curiosity and
Collaboration
At the core of our values, we hold a profound appreciation for the power of curiosity-driven investigation. We firmly believe that curiosity serves as the catalyst for igniting the flames of discovery and innovation.
Sparking
Global
Change
It signifies the endeavor to address pressing global challenges, inspire innovation, and mobilize collective efforts to create positive and lasting shifts in various aspects of our interconnected world.
Recognition and Reconciliation
We're acknowledging historical injustices, often involving marginalized or oppressed groups, and working towards healing, forgiveness, and the restoration of trust and harmony within society.
Strategy #1 - Research Ahead of
Tomorrow
Our mission is to harness the power of research and innovation to tackle our society's biggest challenges.
The growth of knowledge generation is intricately linked with the increasing complexity of our global landscape. Research universities play a pivotal role in this process, as they harness the collective potential of their community members. Through student research opportunities, young minds gain invaluable hands-on experience, cultivate portable skills, and collaborate with faculty members on projects that have the potential to reshape the world. Simultaneously, transdisciplinary research initiatives open doors to novel connections and unforeseen discoveries, empowering scholars to confront monumental challenges too vast for any single individual or discipline to tackle alone. Moreover, research opportunities extended to community partners foster fresh collaborations and innovative solutions.
Our Goal
To maximize and enhance the impact of research on our future, environment, planet, and communities to gain a broader understanding of our world.
Our aim is to establish ourselves as the primary information hub within our classroom community and to significantly influence our comprehension of diverse subjects in the realms of science and social studies.
Our Strategies
Effectively collaborate and work with teachers, students, and researchers from various sources, including community partners.
Explore ways to further embed research opportunities into student learning and curricular-based exercises.
Engaging in discussions and creating discussions to understand student insights and perspectives on various events and issues.
Incorporate citations from reputable sources to demonstrate the origins of our information and the integration of our own insights and expertise.
Strategy #2 - Push the
boundaries in creativity
Our mission is to do things that nobody thought were possible, to push the boundaries and limits on what we thought was possible. We're always striving to take risks and to try new things.
Our mission is to break through the barriers of what was once deemed impossible, constantly challenging established limits and embracing calculated risks to pioneer new frontiers. It is a dedication to ceaseless innovation, a fearless pursuit of the unknown, and a commitment to resilience in the face of adversity. Our mission inspires others to think beyond convention and aims to leave a transformative legacy that reshapes what humanity believes it can achieve. In essence, it embodies a relentless pursuit of progress and the unwavering belief that the impossible is merely a challenge waiting to be conquered.
By pushing the boundaries, we're growing as learners. We believe that the only way to learn and grow is to try new things and step out of your comfort zone. That's what we're all about.
Our Goal
To push the boundaries of exploration and creativity, to drive new projects, and to express our ideas and knowledge through various different types of media beyond worksheets.
Our aim is to do something new and unique each time. Each time, we want to aim higher than what we've done before. Each time, we want to do something that continues to inspire others to do something different.
Our Strategies
Create interdisciplinary projects that blend subjects together to show how concepts within science, mathematics, and humanities are all connected in their unique ways.
Educating our students on new cutting-edge technologies such as A.I, research databases, and digital resources to empower students to harness the incredible possibilities of technology and research tools.
Go beyond expectations and project standards to explore new media-types, such as videos, animations, parodies, and ones that stand out.
Strategy #3 - Reforming,
and building others towards
their personal-defined success
Our mission is to be the leaders of our community, and the person that drives and guides our communities through challenges and issues that may threaten our learning integrity as students.
Our overarching mission is centered on the comprehensive transformation, safeguarding, and fortification of our public education system. This mission reflects our unwavering commitment to shield it against the most formidable challenges it currently faces. At its core, we are resolute in our determination to confront and rectify a multitude of critical issues that have the potential to undermine the very foundation of our educational framework.
We want our future and present students to thrive in a safe learning environment where they can learn best, to pursue their own personal-defined meanings of success, while having someone to be there when they require assistance or help.
Our Goal
To represent our students and their personal needs to ensure every student succeeds in their own personal-defined success.
Our commitment to this initiative is manifested through our active participation in school councils and our unwavering support for those who require it the most. We understand the profound impact of our involvement in shaping the educational environment and the broader community. We want to help around and help others accomplish their goals in their academic studies.
Our Strategies
Building good relationships with students and teachers within our classroom communities by helping out, and making good impressions.
Actively seek opportunities to participate in school councils, committees, or student government. These platforms allow you to voice your ideas, influence decisions, and contribute to school improvement.
Demonstrate the values and behaviors you want to see in others. Whether it's academic excellence, kindness, or community involvement, being a role model can inspire others to follow your lead.
Providing mentorship and volunteering in simple tasks and activites.
Strategy #4 - Bringing a new
meaning to learning
We aim to provide our students with education that goes beyond conventional worksheets, and we strive to discover innovative assessment methods that foster a broader and more holistic approach to learning, rather than relying solely on multiple-choice questions and standardized tests with limited perspectives on knowledge acquisition.
Research has shown that project-based learning, which involves students working on real-world projects and problems, can lead to deeper understanding and retention of knowledge compared to traditional worksheet-based learning. According to a survey conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA), 45% of high school students reported feeling stressed by standardized testing.
We want to shift away from traditional learning standards into one which involves more interactive means of learning.
Our Goal
Enhance the learning experience for students by introducing a fresh approach that makes studying enjoyable and engaging. Incorporate interactive elements like Kahoot quizzes, Jeopardy-style challenges, and Escape Rooms into the curriculum, encouraging students to collaborate and problem-solve with others while reinforcing their understanding of course content.
Our Strategies
Collaborating with course directors and teachers to see how we can incorporate these activities into our learning space
Enabling students to teach and showcase their knowledge and skills through peer teaching and special show and tells
Utilize interactive whiteboards, tablets, and educational software to create dynamic and visually engaging lessons. Tools like interactive simulations can help students explore complex topics.
Incorporate elements of games, such as points, leaderboards, and rewards, into your teaching. Platforms like Kahoot, Quizlet, and educational apps can aid before a test / assessment, and can be a unit review.
Strategy #5 - Make the 2023-
2024 school year like none
other.
Our goal is to ensure that the school year of 2023-2024 and those that follow become unforgettable experiences for you. We are committed to improving each academic year compared to the previous one and are dedicated to pushing the boundaries within our public education system. Our aim is to empower future generations and invest in the development of tomorrow's change-makers.
We believe in the potential of our youth, and younger generations. That's why we're investing and devoting our organization towards seeing the outcomes.
Our Goal
To create an unforgettable experience for our students and staff filled with learning, collaboration, innovation, and personal empowerment. We will implement a range of initiatives and strategies that nurture creativity, foster a sense of belonging, and inspire excellence in all aspects of our educational community.
Our Strategies
Tailor education to individual students' needs and abilities. Use data and technology to create customized learning plans, ensuring that each student progresses at their own pace.
Invest in continuous training and development for educators. Keep them updated on the latest teaching methods, technologies, and best practices.
Ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have equal access to quality education. Implement inclusive practices that accommodate diverse learning styles and needs.
Encourage hands-on, project-based learning experiences. These can foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills.