GCS News Briefs

January 30, 2009

GCS Launches Visionary Strategic Plan

Guilford County Schools (GCS) unveiled an ambitious and comprehensive strategic plan this week that will guide the district in its efforts to become one of the nation’s leading public school districts. It is the district’s first strategic plan.

The theme of the plan is excellence in all areas, including academics, moral character and operations. “We believe that strength of character, combined with the keen analytical skills of a finely tuned mind, can overcome any obstacles and create a limitless future,” said Superintendent Maurice “Mo” Green. “Like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, we believe ‘Intelligence plus character…is the goal of true education.’ That’s why character development of our students is a critical component of this plan.”

The plan is a three-and-a-half year road map with carefully laid out strategies designed to boost student achievement, increase family and community involvement, improve district service, increase the teacher retention rate and improve school safety and discipline. All strategies are based on measurable goals or on goals to be established once more research is completed. Some of these strategies will be launched before the end of the year. Others will be launched during the next two to three years.

The plan is based in part on the input of nearly 4,000 parents, students, employees and community members who sent in comments and suggestions last fall through the “Mo Wants to Know” campaign. Information captured through the campaign and the superintendent’s listening and learning tour—along with the Board of Education’s mission and core values—guided the development of the strategic plan.

This plan is geared toward developing the whole student. Efforts will be made to ensure that in addition to attaining academic excellence, students will develop strong moral character. In addition, key components of the plan will promote health literacy and increase opportunities for student participation in the arts as well as summer enrichment camps.

This plan is divided into eight key areas: improving academic achievement; supportive family and community involvement; strategic human resource management; respectful and responsive service; safe schools and character development; optimal operations; transformational technology; and, clear baseline and equitable standards. The focus on these areas will give GCS an opportunity to do what no other school district in the country has accomplished: achieve education excellence for every child in every school.

Highlights of the plan include:

• Increasing the percentage of students graduating from high school in four years from 79.5 percent to 90 percent.
• Completing more than one million square feet in construction through new schools, additions, renovations or upgrades.
• Increasing the number of district schools designated as Honor Schools of Excellence by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction from one to five (only 20 schools in North Carolina receive that designation each year).
• Increasing the number of volunteers and volunteer hours.
• Increasing financial donations and in-kind contributions from the 2007-08 level of $1.7 million.
• Equipping all schools with a baseline standard of technology.
  

 Some strategies for implementing the plan include:

• Developing partnerships with community groups to launch a community literacy initiative designed to encourage GCS students to read one million books each year.
• Expanding choice options for students and families by exploring a partnership that would establish a specialized academy at the Natural Science Center.
• Expanding opportunities for students to earn high school graduation credits by expanding the current Twilight School and by opening a full-service evening program.
• Providing quality, timely and cost-effective support to schools by re-organizing the schools and district resources into geographic regions. One of these regions will be exclusively for the most impacted schools.
  

Even with an uncertain economy, GCS is still forging ahead with the implementation of this important plan. “This plan will require us to re-focus our current resources more strategically,” said Green. “While the current economic conditions clearly will make this effort more challenging, our children deserve no less than our very best.”

Moving forward, there will be systems in place to guarantee a successful implementation of the plan involving all members of the community. The district will assemble a team of district staff made up of senior level administrators. They will be responsible for reviewing projects, approving budgets and ensuring that resources align with goals that support achieving education excellence. Where appropriate, these project teams also will include school-based employees and support staff, community members and experts from various professions.

“We already have a school district that is regarded nationally for creating innovative programs and making gains in student achievement,” said Green. “Now, we have the opportunity to build on that strong foundation and take our schools to the next level. We have the vision and we have the ability. I respectfully ask for your support as we move forward with this plan.”

Click here to read the strategic plan. For more information, please contact Haley Miller, manager, media relations, at 370-3200.

College Tech Prep Showcase Planned for Next Week

Weaver Academy is hosting a College Tech Prep Program Showcase on Tuesday, February 3, from 5 – 7 p.m. Parents and students are invited to this showcase to learn more about the many certifications and College Tech Prep courses offered to all GCS students.  Representatives will be available to answer questions on specific College Tech Prep courses offered at each GCS high school.

Parents and students can receive information about how to achieve the following while in high school:

• prepare for two- and four-year degree programs
• earn college credits
• earn nationally recognized certification in Career and Technical Education courses
• qualify for a two-year College Tech Prep scholarship

Take this opportunity to tour classrooms, speak with students and teachers and receive information explaining how College Tech Prep helps you make the most of your high school experience while preparing you for your future. For more information, please contact Judy Harrington, career and technical education department, at 370-8338.

Capital Improvements Planned at Several Schools

The district is proposing to use some of the balance remaining from the 2000 and 2003 bonds for capital improvements at several schools throughout the county. Addressing these capital needs is consistent with several goals in the recently unveiled GCS Strategic Plan. It is also crucial to the district’s efforts to continue to provide safe and healthy learning environments for all students.

The capital improvement needs identified in this proposal include HVAC, roofing and security needs, such as the installation of camera systems. Other important improvements include storm water improvements and sidewalk/paving improvements. The schools identified for this round of improvements include:

• Andrews High – replace carpet in auditorium
• Brightwood Elementary – HVAC improvements
• Brown Summit Middle – install camera system, flooring improvements
• Florence Elementary – roofing improvements, HVAC improvements
• Gibsonville Elementary – lighting improvements, sound remediation
• Guilford Elementary – storm water improvements
• Guilford Middle – roofing improvements
• Madison Elementary – HVAC improvements
• McLeansville Elementary – HVAC improvements
• Northeast High – water filtration system, roofing improvements, air conditioning in kitchen
• Northeast Middle – roofing improvements, install camera system
• Northwest High – widen sidewalks
• Oak View Elementary – air conditioning improvements in kitchen
• Penn Griffin – install camera system
• Pleasant Garden Elementary – fire alarm improvements, flooring improvements, HVAC improvements, fencing improvements, accessibility improvements
• Reedy Fork Elementary – storm water improvements
• Southern High – water filtration system, roofing improvements, HVAC improvements
• Dudley High – paving improvements
• Irving Park Elementary – HVAC improvements
• Lincoln Middle – intercom system, install camera system, canopies at student busing area
• Morehead Elementary – roofing improvements, electrical improvements
• Peck Elementary – HVAC improvements, doors/hardware improvements, flooring improvements, accessibility improvements
• Peeler Elementary – plumbing improvements

There are other needs at other schools that are not on this list.  Some of these improvements will be addressed through capital budget appropriations, while some will be paid for by the 2008 bond. The district is working to identify additional funding sources for some other capital needs in our schools. This proposal is pending board approval. For more information, please contact Leo Bobadilla, chief operations officer, at 370-3482.

Andrews High Alumnus to Star in Super Bowl

The Arizona Cardinals are counting on the leadership of Andrews High alumnus Adrian Wilson to help them win their first ever Super Bowl on Sunday. Cardinals Coach Ken Whisenhunt has said publicly that the Cardinals would not have made it this far if it hadn’t been for the hard work and inspiring leadership of Wilson, a native of High Point. Wilson, a safety who played for North Carolina State University, is in his eighth season in the NFL. He played in the Pro Bowl in 2006. He also has been a mentor to many of the younger players on the team. For more information, please contact Leigh Hebbard, director of athletics, at 370-8950.

Dudley High Musicians Win Awards at Inaugural Events

The Dudley Concert and Marching bands received ratings of excellent as well as silver plaques for their performances in the Presidential Inaugural Heritage Music Festival. The groups competed with bands from across the country for these honors. The marching band also received a certificate of appreciation from the town of Leesburg, Va. for performing in the Martin Luther King, Jr. parade. On the day of the inauguration, the bands watched the ceremony from the National Mall. For more information, please contact Principal Jesse Pratt at 370-8130.

Weaver Academy Administrators Present at State Conference

Weaver Principal Pete Kashubara, Assistant Principal Brandy Talley and Curriculum Facilitator Tresha Layne presented the school’s intervention plan at the North Carolina High School Educators Association’s annual conference January 26 and 27. Conference participants gave positive feedback on the school’s process and efforts. The administrators will make the presentation at the Magnet Schools of America national conference in Charlotte, N.C. in April. For more information, please contact Mr. Kashubara at 370-8282.

Debby Reynolds Award Call for Entries

The Enrichment Fund’s Debby Reynolds Award recognizes an educator, counselor or other staff member who actively and resolutely advocates for children in need. The winning teacher receives $500 with an additional $700 going to the school where the winning teacher works. Use of the $700 award is at the discretion of the school and the teacher receiving the award. Please submit nominations by March 28, 2009. Click here for a copy of the application form. For more information, please contact Cecilia Adams, manager of community partnerships, at 370-8355. 

Training on Bullying and Gender Diversity Issues

GCS educators are invited to participate in a unique opportunity for training on bullying and gender diversity issues in our schools.  A six-hour (CEU) training is being offered, which will give them a deeper understanding of and tools to address these pressing concerns. GCS administrators are encouraged to enroll at least one person from a school’s staff to take advantage of this important training and serve as a resource for faculty.

On February 19, participants will meet Academy award-winning producer/director, Debra Chasnoff and view and discuss the film “Let’s Get Real,” which takes a close look at bullying at the middle school level. The accompanying curriculum guide will be included as part of the package. Training participants will also attend a public local premiere screening of her newest film, “Straightlaced,” which addresses gender identity and homophobia in teens.

On March 19, participants will attend a follow-up training led by staff and student leaders of the National Conference for Community and Justice (NCCJ) of the Piedmont Triad. The fee for participation is $15 per person and includes the curriculum guide and two meals. The training enrollment is limited to 60 persons.  Learn more about these films at www.groundspark.org. For more information and registration, please contact Annette Green at Annette@gsafe.org.

Southwest High Wrestling Coach Earns 300th Win

Jim Coggins began his coaching career at Scotland County High where he started that school’s wrestling program. Coach Coggins left Scotland County and came to Guilford County to Jamestown Middle, where he worked for one year. When Southwest High opened in 1979, he was hired as a teacher and wrestling coach. He has been their wrestling coach since the school opened. At the beginning of the current season, his coaching record was 294-176-2. On December 20, 2008, the Southwest High wrestling team won at West Lincoln High earning Coach Coggins his 300th victory as a coach. He was recognized by his school on January 14, 2009 prior to their contest against Reagan High. In addition to this outstanding achievement, he has also coached five individual state champions during his career and currently has the defending 215 pound state champion on his team. For more information, please contact Leigh Hebbard, director of athletics, at 370-8950.

School Counselors: Making a Difference - National School Counseling Week

GCS counselors will celebrate National School Counseling Week February 2-6. Sponsored by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), school counseling week highlights the tremendous impact that counselors can have in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career.

“This special week provides recognition for school counselors who implement comprehensive school counseling programs, a vital part of the educational process for all students as they meet the challenges of the 21st century," said Susan Eubanks, supervisor of elementary school counseling.

School counselors are actively engaged in helping students examine their abilities, strengths, interests and talents as they focus on positive ways to enhance students' social/personal, educational and career development. Professional school counselors are certified, experienced educators with a master's degree in guidance and counseling. The combination of their training and experience makes them an integral part of the total educational program.

As part of its celebration for National School Counseling Week, counselors in GCS will carry out activities such as presentations on the role of the school counselor, special bulletin boards depicting the “School Counselors: Making A Difference” national theme, poster contests and other activities focusing on the counseling program. For more information, please contact Ms. Eubanks at 574-2637.

Reminder from the Benefits Department

Employees who have had dependent children graduate from college in December and are no longer full-time students must remove them from the State Health Plan coverage.  Employees have 30 days from the graduation date to remove dependents.  If dependents are not removed from the State Health Plan within 30 days of the change in status, employees will not be reimbursed for premiums paid after that month. Also, because the dependent was ineligible for State Health Plan coverage, any claims paid after eligibility ended will be the responsibility of the employee.

Continued health coverage for dependents is available through COBRA if the election is made within 60 days after receiving the COBRA information.  Covered dependents that are full-time students but have reached the age of 26 must also be removed from the State Health Plan coverage. For more information contact Patty Kinkade, director of benefits, at 370-8092 or kinkadp@gcsnc.com.

Teacher Transfer Fair

The Annual Teacher Transfer Fair, sponsored by GCS and the Guilford County Association of Educators (GCAE), will be held on Thursday, February 19 from 4:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. at Smith High. All teachers eligible for transfer within GCS are invited to meet with principals and school staff at the fair. It is an excellent opportunity to learn more about other schools within the district. If you have questions regarding your eligibility, please contact the Staffing Office at 378-8806. For more information regarding the transfer fair, please contact Melissa Harrelson in the Office of Employment at 370-8055 or harrels2@gcsnc.com.

Teacher of the Year

The Human Resources Office is beginning to receive nominations for Teacher of the Year as school level winners are selected. The deadline for principals to submit their winner’s name to Human Resources is February 13, 2009. Nominees must complete portfolios, which are due April 21, 2009, in order to compete in the district level process.  A committee of principals, teachers and central office administrators will review all portfolios, and finalists will move on to the interview round. The winner will be announced in the fall at the Principal/Teacher of the Year celebration. For more information, please contact Carla Alphin, employee relations, at 370-8821 or alphinc@gcsnc.com.

GCSTV 2  

GCS Strategic Plan

Superintendent Maurice “Mo” Green unveils a strategic plan designed to promote excellence here in one of the state’s top school districts.  Watch the plan’s debut, which was held at GTCC-Jamestown’s Koury Auditorium.  The program runs daily at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Legislative Luncheon

Educators and legislators get together to discuss the most pressing issues facing GCS and school districts across the state.  This program runs daily at 11:30 a.m.

Access to Your Board

GCSTV 2 carries all regular Board of Education meetings live and replays the meetings the following day at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. and the following Saturday at 1 p.m.

Building Futures-Your Construction Update

Find out the latest on what’s being built or upgraded within GCS through this tour of the latest projects.  It’s your guide to how construction bond funds are being spent to help our school district build on its excellence.  This program can be seen daily at 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Tus Hijos y GCS (Your Children and GCS)

The district’s Spanish language program is designed to help parents and guardians with their children’s education and school experience.  Hosted by ESOL teacher Karin Young, you can see and hear this program in Spanish and English daily at 7 a.m., 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Inside Out

This documentary is a stark reminder of the importance of staying in school.  It is a series of stories from inmates who ponder the world outside prison walls as they talk about how dropping out of school dramatically changed their lives for the worst. GCSTV 2 presents this emotionally gripping film each day at 2 p.m. and midnight.

Jazzing It Up

Tune in and turn on the cool jazz stylings of the GCS All County Jazz Band.  Some of the district’s best musicians showcase their talents in concert, and GCSTV 2 shares the performance with you daily at 10:28 p.m. and 1 a.m.

GCS Basketball Highlights

GCSTV 2’s Friday Night Rivalries is sure to delight GCS high school basketball fans!  With football season behind us, FNR turns its attention to round ball with highlights of top team matchups and interviews with coaches and players.  The program is produced by Mike Crenshaw’s TV group at Weaver Academy.  It runs at 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. daily. 

Showcase Your Talent on GCSTV 2

GCSTV 2 is now accepting student, faculty, staff or parent produced programming for possible broadcast!  We’re interested in your complete, compelling productions of school sports, concerts, recitals, plays, debates, academic competitions, school news and more.  These projects can be videos you produce at school or on your own time that educate and entertain.  See the GCSTV 2 page at www.gcsnc.com for details.

GCSTV 2 and ABC-45

GCS continues its partnership with ABC-45 television to share the following current news and feature stories about our district. The segments run on ABC-45 (Cable Channel 7) during Good Morning America each Wednesday and Friday at 7:25 a.m. and 8:25 a.m.

Strategic Plan Launch
Superintendent “Mo” Green outlines details of a strategic plan designed to promote excellence in education within Guilford County schools.  This Newsbreak airs Wednesday, February 4.
 
Kindergarten Kickoff
It’s not too early to plan for next fall’s kindergarten classes and that’s why GCS is providing some orientation for students and their parents.  This Newsbreak airs Friday, February 6.

For more information, please contact Leonard Simpson, broadcast production manager, at 370-8167.