Strategic Plan

What is a Portrait of a Graduate?

Each student in Richland School District is different, with unique talents and abilities. Yet each should possess and demonstrate, in their own way, the essential qualities that will help them succeed in the classroom and life. They need to be engaged and empowered learners, effective communicators, creative and critical thinkers, resilient individuals and empathetic citizens. When our students show these qualities, we know they are ready for their future, whether in our community or elsewhere in our nation or world. This is what we call being Richland Ready.

Richland Readiness Priorities

The Richland Readiness Priorities frame the work that all Richland School District leaders, staff and partners undertake to support students. Each Priority is informed by our core values and is important yet each also is dependent on the work being conducted in the scope of the other Indicators. 

Within each Priority, Focus Areas outline the broad initiatives aimed at supporting student success. The Progress Benchmarks are the metrics we’ve set our sights on to assess these initiatives.

Well-Being

Students learn best when compassion, empathy and respect are central to relationships. Everyone faces barriers and struggles. What’s important is how students use adversity to find themselves, become well-rounded and support each other. Schools must nurture welcoming environments, provide opportunities for students to build relationships and offer resources that support student mental health.

Students learn best when surrounded by supportive and supported staff. Guiding youth through a transformative part of their life is a rewarding and challenging role. Providing staff the tools and the support they need to be there for students is critical.

Academic Success

Students learn best when they know we believe in their success. Graduation is our goal for every student. It also is crucial that schools support and guide each student along their path so the student realizes their potential and determines their own future.

Students learn best with high-quality and effective instruction aligned with their goals. Providing a challenging and supportive academic environment to students from the moment they enter kindergarten all the way through high school prepares students for whatever they want to pursue.

Safety

Students learn best when they are safe and secure. Our schools must prioritize the physical and emotional well-being of students and staff through collaboration, best practices, infrastructure and partnerships.

Community Engagement

Students learn best when schools, families & communities are partners. This requires strong connections, a mutual commitment to service and clear communication built on trust. Seek opportunities to partner with parents as important stakeholders in their child’s education.

Accountability

Students learn best when resources are managed to meet their needs. We have an obligation to be transparent in the use of taxpayer dollars, responsibly maintain facilities, recruit and retain highly-qualified staff, and engage our community in how we use resources.

Students learn best when they know what is expected of them and they are held to high standards. By setting academic and behavioral expectations, our schools prepare students to work and collaborate with others.