Inclusive Excellence: Stratford Public Schools Pioneers Collaborative Education Approach
By Melissa Redding
Family and Community Engagement Specialist
Stratford Public Schools is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for every student and family within its community. Recognizing the invaluable contributions of families, students, and community partners, the district is proud to announce its partnership with CREC (Capitol Region Education Council) in undertaking a comprehensive state-level assessment through Welcoming Walkthroughs across all Stratford Public Schools.
Welcoming Schools Walkthroughs represent a pivotal opportunity for guided self-assessment, enabling our schools to pinpoint areas for ongoing enhancement in cultivating vibrant and inclusive school communities district-wide. Commencing the pilot phase of our district-wide objective, we began with six schools: Wooster Middle School, Flood Middle School, Bunnell High School, Stratford High School, Stratford Academy Johnson House, and Second Hill Lane Elementary School.
Aligned with our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our diverse student population, we are collaborating with external experts in Family Engagement to explore novel avenues for welcoming families into our school communities. Through this partnership, we aim to forge enduring relationships built on trust, thereby bolstering the academic and social well-being of every child.
Stratford High School
Stratford Academy
Bunnell High School
Wooster Junior High
Second Hill Lane
Flood Junior High School
Facilitated by CREC and supported by a collaborative team comprising parents, community members, and district staff, Welcoming Schools Walkthroughs signify a collective effort to scrutinize our current practices comprehensively. We are eager to leverage this team-driven approach to assess our existing strategies and unearth innovative methods for enhancing communication and fostering deeper engagement with families.
Heather Borges, Acting Superintendent of Stratford Public Schools, expressed enthusiasm about this initiative, stating, “Welcoming Schools Walkthroughs represent a crucial step towards realizing our vision of inclusive education. By harnessing the collective expertise of our stakeholders, we are poised to create an educational landscape where every voice is heard, and every child thrives.”
About Stratford Public Schools
Stratford Public Schools is a renowned educational institution committed to nurturing a dynamic learning environment that empowers students to excel academically, socially, and emotionally. With a steadfast dedication to inclusivity and collaboration, the district strives to cultivate lifelong learners poised for success in an ever-changing world.
About CREC (Capitol Region Education Council)
CREC is a nationally recognized educational service center that leverages innovation and collaboration to promote excellence in teaching, learning, and leadership. Committed to equity and excellence in education, CREC partners with districts to foster inclusive environments where every learner can thrive.
Who is welcomed and what is seen? I don’t understand what exactly this OpEd means to say. Can citizens request walkthroughs? Who are the pictured groups of people? A lot of words saying what?