Submitted by Chair Amanda Amaral
October 12, 2022
This is the last report of our term. What a wonderful theme to end with: Vision. Our vision is “We are a community engaged in lifelong learning and educational excellence.” A vision statement is intended to anchor our desired future state and create purpose in our daily work. It describes what is in front of us; however, this time when we focus on our theme of Vision I can’t help but looking at what is behind us.
Have we moved closer to our Vision? I think so. Our Boards values became the North Star for our decision making and supported our journey towards our vision. In reflecting on the work of this Board the value of Equity often showed up as the brightest star in the constellation and often right beside it, Collaboration & Inclusion. So where have we arrived after our 4-year journey together?
During our journey we moved forward our decision making with real gains for inclusion. From supporting the District Inclusion Team to writing new policy intended to eliminate barriers so that each student can reach their full potential while participating in an SD46 School Program. We also changed the way we do things as a Board by incorporating Truth and Reconciliation as a standing item on our Education Committee. A protected time for learning, reflection and action.
As a Board we were strong and stayed focused on our Vision, not distracted by our individual politics or philosophy. We committed to our mandate of creating educated citizens and excellence in student achievement, moving forward our agenda swiftly.
So here we are, at the rest stop on our journey. We can look back on our path and see where we got lost and where we made gains. We can look forward and the vision is so close it is starting to feel real.
We can look to our value of Celebration and recognize the significance of being right here. Finding unity and joy in making this journey together. The privilege has been ours and I hope that you are all pleased with the work of this Board the past four years. We thank you for your care, attention and engagement as your contributions have made us a better Board.
As our Board shifts and some members leave and new ones join we look forward bringing our Vision in to focus again and starting back on our journey.