Our schools, our future

High expectations for employee performance and success are guided by principles such as Community of Learners (learning is the core purpose), Safe and Supportive Learning Environments, and Community Investment (to ensure transparency and enhance information sharing), as well as opportunities for community input and engagement, partnerships, and volunteerism. These principles describe crucial behaviors, practices, processes and priorities for maintaining high standards, and continuing on the path towards excellence.

Much of what Governor McDonnell and the state legislators have accomplished for education deserves applause, but I remain concerned that education is not being given the priority it deserves at the federal, state, and local levels.

I want to hear your ideas about our schools. Email me at patty@carpenterschoolboard.com

Chesterfield County Public Schools continue their excellent reputation for high achievement.  For three of the last four years Chesterfield has made adequate yearly progress under “No Child Left Behind.”  More than 40 schools have earned the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Education, Board of Education’s VIP Excellence Award or Board of Education’s VIP Competence to Excellence Award. 

Seven of Chesterfield County’s High Schools were recently included in the Washington Post’s Challenge Index that recognizes America’s best high schools, and the division’s on-time graduation rate exceeds the state average.

Under the direction of the School Board and Superintendent, more than 7,500 employees continue to engage our students, and ensure our schools are safe and supportive learning environments for all.

However, we still have much to achieve so that we can ensure our students’ success in a global society.  Accordingly, the expectations for students are well beyond the baseline of the SOL’s.  A new vision, mission, goals and guiding principles, were recently adopted by the School Board, and the “Design for Excellence 2020,” the school division’s comprehensive plan, is now being implemented.  This plan calls for continuous improvement for student achievement and success, and is the most ‘student centered’ plan in the history of Chesterfield County Public Schools.  It will position our students to be competitive leaders, forward and creative thinkers, and flexible workers who will be successful in the global workforce of the 21^st Century. 

In addition to student achievement, Quality Service and Operations remains strong as one of our guiding principles.  It ensures Chesterfield County Public Schools is committed to providing high quality programs and services, and it empowers all employees to engage in quality management principles and practices, while efficiently and effectively managing resources. Likewise, the expectation is to efficiently and effectively exceed minimum compliance standards.  Regardless of title or job description, all employees are expected to provide the highest quality of work, every day.