Tacoma Public Schools considers 10-year strategic plan after survey finds safety, equity top priorities

Tacoma Public Schools convened a study session to review survey results and draft goal language for a new district strategic plan, with staff and board members debating whether to adopt a five‑year or 10‑year horizon and directing staff to return with concrete success indicators.

The district’s consultant, Tanisha Jumper, told trustees “we we got back, 2,200, results, responses,” and said the sample was weighted heavily toward parents. Survey respondents prioritized personal and physical safety, student focus, cultural respect and inclusiveness, equitable resources and access, and anti‑racism as the values they want emphasized in the next plan.

Why it matters: Board members said the strategic plan will both signal district priorities to families and community partners and guide multi‑year investments. Several trustees argued a longer timeline would allow the district to build data systems and partnerships needed to measure complex outcomes such as “critical thinking” and “effective communication.” Others warned that a 10‑year plan requires intentional calibration so it can be adjusted as leadership and funding change.

Board discussion and draft goal language

Jumper presented draft goal statements framed around three broad goals: academic achievement (students ready to learn; teachers prepared and resourced), partnership…