Shaping Hopkins schools’ future with community conversations
BY JOHN SCHULTZ – GUEST COLUMNIST
Hopkins Public Schools has a reputation for stepping up to the plate to provide what is foundational to democracy – the education of our public. Part of how we exemplify the Hopkins excellence is by listening to parents and our school community.
Our teachers are committed to developing citizens who are prepared for the challenges and opportunities in the 21st century and beyond. We serve learners from diverse backgrounds in a rapidly changing culture. We are seeing this trend statewide, especially in the metropolitan area where demographics, immigration and economics are undergoing significant change. New careers, jobs and vocations emerge every day. All of us are accessing knowledge and information in multiple ways, and communication tools are innumerable.
Considering our fast-paced, ever-changing world, it’s more important than ever for us to seek input from parents, staff and community leaders about how we can best position the public education we offer our learners. Our belief is that within our school community is all the wisdom and creativity necessary to confront the complexities of preparing learners for their future. This belief held true in October when approximately 125 parents, community leaders and staff from all corners of the district discussed the future of Hopkins Public Schools in a World Café setting.
The conversations at this meeting created multiple ideas and suggested directions in the areas of district and community partnerships, innovation and relevant learning for all students, as well as generated a rich set of ideas that will energize the district as it sets its path for the future. It is exciting for all of us that the ideas from our community, parents, staff and community leaders alike, guide and shape what happens in the classrooms and programs across the district.
Be part of the conversation. It is my hope that you stay tuned to how Hopkins Public Schools is establishing its excellent education pathways for every school, every student, every day. You can learn about our planning process and a whole lot more by reading our website, HopkinsSchools.org.
John Schultz is Superintendent of Hopkins Public Schools, District 270.
