CMS Board sets four student outcome goals for Mecklenburg County education

During the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) Board of Education meeting on February 11, 2025, a strong emphasis was placed on the district's mission and vision, which aim to foster an innovative and inclusive educational environment for all students. The meeting highlighted the importance of understanding the purpose behind CMS's initiatives, as articulated by a board member who noted, "If the purpose of a thing is unknown, abuse is inevitable."

The CMS mission focuses on creating a student-centered environment that nurtures independent learners, while the vision aspires to lead the community in educational excellence. This vision encourages intellectual curiosity, creativity, and achievement, ensuring that every student can reach their full potential.

A significant point of discussion was the establishment of four governance goals centered on positive student outcomes. These goals—early literacy, literacy for students in grades 3 and 8, Math 1 proficiency, and post-secondary readiness—were developed through extensive community engagement, gathering over 60,000 pieces of data to reflect the desires of Mecklenburg County residents for their children’s education.

The board also set essential guardrails to guide their efforts, prioritizing equity over equality, safety, holistic child development, and the recruitment of top educators. This strategic framework aims to ensure that CMS remains focused on the needs of its 141,900 students.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to educational excellence and community involvement, setting a clear path forward for the district's future initiatives. As CMS continues to refine its strategies, the focus remains on fostering an environment where every student can thrive.