The WMRSD Long Range Plan : Qs and As

What is the Long Range Plan?

The Long Range Plan is the official document on which all educational programs and business operations are identified, developed and executed over a five year span. The NJ Department of Education requires that each public school develop and publish a Long Range Plan every five years.

Why does West Morris need community volunteers?

In order for a Long Range Plan to achieve successful outcomes it must take into account and weigh the views and opinions of all key stakeholders. In addition to school administrators and staff, this also includes parents and guardians and students.

What constitutes a successful Long Range Plan?

A successful Long Range Plan is one that results in academic and other initiatives that have measurable positive short and / or long-term educational benefits on students. Initiatives that emerged from past long range plans include the IB program, Bartley Academy, and passage of the construction referendum.

What are my responsibilities as a volunteer?

Volunteers will participate in the May 18 and 19 overnight planning meeting as a guest of the Eagleton Institute of Politics at Rutgers University in its historic Woodlawn Mansion. During the planning meeting you will learn about the long range planning process and with other members of the Long Range Planning council participate in discussion to begin developing goals for the 2007 – 2011 Long Range Plan and potential strategies. You may also be asked to join a follow-up Planning or Action Team so that you can continue to play an active role in the planning and execution of the new LRP

I am unable to spend the night. Is it still possible to participate in the Long Range Plan Planning Meeting May 18 – 19?

The Board understands that personal situations may not allow all members of the LRP to spend the night. It is not necessary to spend the entire evening at the Woodlawn Mansion which houses the Eagleton Institute of Politics but the Board does ask that members make every effort to participate in the evening planning sessions on May 19 up until 9:00 pm and from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm on May 19.

Can I still participate in the planning process event though I am unable to attend the Long Range Planning Meeting in May?

Yes. Even if you are unable to devote the time to the Long Range Planning Council, you can still play an active role in planning school initiatives by participating in your local PTO, attending Regular Board meetings and writing letters to your BOE,

Are there any requirements to becoming a volunteer?

Yes. An interest and willingness to helping the BOE improve the educational programs at WMRHSD in a constructive, professional manner.

What can I do to prepare for the Long Range Planning meeting?

The best way to prepare is to become familiar with the educational offerings currently being offered by the school through its Program of Studies, copies of which are available on the district and school web sites. You can also meet with friends and neighbors for their ideas on how the schools can continue to meet the educational needs of its students.