The Public Schools of Robeson County held a Board of Education Retreat on December 6, 2024, focusing on strategic planning and capacity building within the district. The meeting commenced with discussions on the importance of establishing a sustainable growth model for the district, emphasizing that improvement requires consistent effort rather than isolated successes.

The first agenda item highlighted the need for predictability in educational outcomes. Participants discussed the significance of data-driven decision-making to assess progress on a monthly and yearly basis. A key point raised was that mere hard work does not equate to success; instead, a clear plan and vision are essential for achieving educational goals.

The conversation then shifted to the \"R to the third power\" model, which underscores the importance of relationships, relevance, and rigor in educational practices. The model advocates for building strong, fact-based relationships among educators and stakeholders, ensuring that all efforts are aligned with the district's goals. The board acknowledged a recent donation of $25,100 for scholarships, reinforcing the importance of community support in educational initiatives.

Subsequent discussions addressed the stages of change within the district, moving from random acts of improvement to intentional, structured practices. The board emphasized the need for a cohesive approach to school improvement, avoiding random and uncoordinated efforts that could hinder progress. The importance of a supportive culture and clear expectations was also highlighted, with a focus on monitoring and evaluating classroom practices to foster a positive learning environment.

Dr. Deborah Dallas presented an update on the district's strategic plan, which aims to ensure that all staff are equipped to meet student needs through data-driven professional development. The board discussed the shift away from traditional, lengthy professional development sessions towards more targeted, relevant training that directly addresses the needs of teachers and students.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing communication and collaboration among educators, emphasizing that successful implementation of the strategic plan relies on collective efforts and shared accountability. The board plans to continue monitoring progress and will provide updates on measurable outcomes as the strategic plan unfolds.