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Cumberland County Schools superintendent outlines three-stage strategic plan, announces Choice Fair
Summary
Superintendent Dr. Bracey announced a three-stage, community-driven strategic planning process for 2025–26 with RTI International’s support and promoted a Choice Fair set for Nov. 5 at E. E. Smith High School; the district’s application window for 2025–26 opens Nov. 17, 2025.
Superintendent Dr. Bracey told the Cumberland County Board of Education that the district will undertake a three-stage strategic planning process during the 2025–26 school year, pairing data review with broad community engagement and targeting board approval in June for a 2026–2031 plan.
Dr. Bracey framed the process as community-developed and data-informed, saying, “As I shared last month, I’ve crossed my 100 day threshold. Today marks day 133 of my service as superintendent of Cumberland County Schools.” He said the district has gathered stakeholder feedback through surveys and meetings and will work with RTI International to guide the plan.
Stage 1 will compile and review district data and solicit community input, including early focus groups; stage 2 will develop goals, metrics and refine themes through further public input; stage 3 will publish a draft, finalize it, and bring the plan to the board for approval with a target of adoption in June for the 2026–2031 plan. Dr. Bracey said a cross-functional steering committee of internal and external stakeholders will meet throughout the year to guide the work.
The superintendent also announced the Cumberland County Schools Choice Fair, scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 5 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at E. E. Smith High School. He said the Choice Fair is a one-stop opportunity for families to explore specialized programs at every grade level, meet principals and academy directors, and learn about eligibility and the application process. The district’s school-choice application window for the 2025–26 school year opens Monday, Nov. 17, 2025.
Dr. Bracey said feedback from the first 133 days of his service would not 'sit on the shelf' and that the strategic plan will align time and resources to student achievement priorities. He closed his update with a highlight of a recent Hispanic Heritage Night and a short video showcasing student performances.
The board received the update; Dr. Bracey said the district will continue public engagement through focus groups, surveys, and a website that will host materials and solicit input during the process. The next board meeting is scheduled for Dec. 9, 2025.
