Mission Statement / Beliefs / Parameters / Strategies / Ten Commandments

Mission Statement

Kilgore ISD is a community committed to doing WHATEVER IT TAKES in helping all students reach a high level of academic achievement as determined by state and national standards with the ability to creatively think, lead, collaborate, communicate and thrive in our local and a global society. We commit to a comprehensive system of support to assure this outcome. We believe our mission includes the education and preparation of our students for lifelong academic as well as workforce opportunities with an uncompromising commitment to a higher level of excellence.

Beliefs

• All children can learn;

• Every child should have an equal opportunity for an education;

• Relationships play a critical role in student success;

• Partnerships between school, family, and community are essential for success;

• Expectations influence results;

• Effective teaching is key to student learning;

• Students are our highest priority;

• People are our greatest assets;

• Each person is responsible for his/her own actions;

• Communication is key for success;

• Honesty, respect  and consideration for others are necessary for human dignity;

• Technology is the door to the world.

Parameters

• We will not tolerate incompetence or mediocrity

• We will not tolerate disruptive behavior or prejudicial discrimination or degradation at any time to anyone.

• Learning programs take precedent.

• Decisions will be made strictly on student needs.

Strategies

      We will:

• Promote the value of education among our diverse population to ensure equity of educational opportunity.

• Maintain high standards and expectations for all students.

• Recruit, hire , develop, and retain highly qualified employees committed to and compatible with our missions and beliefs.

• Engage our diverse community to encourage interest, involvement and responsibility.

• Develop and implement policy and programs that  ensure a safe and drug free learning environment.

• Create a district wide curriculum plan that reduces the achievement gap and ensures that all students attain or exceed acceptable scores in core academic areas.

• Create and maintain facilities and technology that foster learning.

• Communicate, communicate, communicate

• Implement development programs that foster teacher, student and community learning.

• Implement programs that reward good attendance and reduces drop outs.

• Create a learning environment that fosters supportive and positive relationships among all stakeholders.

Ten Commandments of Effective Schools

The research shows that effective schools possess specific success factors. These factors include the ten items listed below. At KISD our mission will be to uphold all of these standards and create a positive educational environment for our students, teachers, and community.

1. A Philosophy and mission that is clear and shared by all stakeholders

2. High standards and expectations for all students

3. Curriculum, instruction and assessments aligned with state standards

4. Effective school leadership (accountability for teachers and administrators)

5. High levels of collaboration and communication

6. Focused professional development

7. A learning environment that is supportive and positive

8. High levels of parent and community involvement

9. Safe and orderly environment that promotes learning

10. Positive relationships between teachers and students