GILROY
– Gilroy Unified School District reviewed and approved its goals
for the 2003-04 school year during a study session last Thursday.
Board members focused on recognizing teachers this year who make
extraordinary progress toward district goals. The board will also
concentrate on improving communicati
on between parents and schools.
By Lori Stuenkel
GILROY – Gilroy Unified School District reviewed and approved its goals for the 2003-04 school year during a study session last Thursday. Board members focused on recognizing teachers this year who make extraordinary progress toward district goals. The board will also concentrate on improving communication between parents and schools.
Board members discussed ways to advance district priorities, which include improving instruction, customer service and parent and community engagement.
“We have a strategic direction,” Superintendent Edwin Diaz said. “It’s now updating it.”
GUSD will begin formally recognizing high-achieving teachers, staff and schools that demonstrate progress toward the district’s goals of improving standards-based instruction and having students perform better on the state’s standardized tests.
“We may know that they’re doing a good job, but they still need to be validated,” Linda Piceno said.
The first awards should be handed out in November.
“Part of it is recognizing people for the good work they’re doing, but also keeping the enthusiasm and passion going for the improvements,” Diaz said.
The recognition program will be funded by nondistrict resources, Diaz said. Grants from the community and local businesses will be put into an education foundation, which has been nonoperational for several years. One of the main purposes of the foundation will be staff recognition, Diaz said.
GUSD will also consider implementing a districtwide student recognition system. Students are currently rewarded by their schools for achievements like high grades, perfect attendance and good citizenship. Diaz will consult with the Parents Advisory Committee regarding students awards, he said.
Diaz meets with the committee monthly to keep his finger on the pulse of the district, taking time to hear parent concerns and answer questions. Up to two parents from each school site and representatives from district stakeholder groups, such as special education parents, comprise the advisory council.
Improving communication between parents and schools is another goal for 2003-04, board members said. Familiarizing teachers and staff with available technology is one way to help them respond to parents, Diaz said.
“Being able to use that technology to make it a little easier to keep that communication flow going between parents and staff is important, and we’re taking steps right now to do that,” he said.
The district’s Information Technology Department, which installed a new voicemail system during the summer, has been helping teachers and staff become familiar with the system.
“There’s a lot of interest from the teachers,” said Rob van Herk, IT manager for GUSD. “There are a lot of people calling and asking for clarifications. That’s great because that definitely gives the impression that they’re looking into how to use it.”
