NJ School Board Association outlines 3‑meeting strategic‑planning process for Glen Rock

Melissa Del Rosso, the New Jersey School Board Association field service representative for Bergen County, presented the association’s strategic‑planning approach and encouraged broad community participation.

Del Rosso described a three‑meeting model spread over four to five months: an initial reflection meeting to assess district strengths and challenges, a portrait‑of‑a‑learner session to define student outcomes, and a final meeting to establish strategic goals and action plans. "It's a proactive, creative process," Del Rosso said, adding that the association facilitates meetings, compiles community input, and produces progress updates that can be posted on the district website to maintain transparency.

Trustees asked about timing, especially in the context of the district's ongoing superintendent search. Del Rosso said it is common to wait two to three months after a new superintendent is in place so the new leader can participate, but she added that districts sometimes complete the process before onboarding the new superintendent; both approaches can be successful. "I would give them the opportunity, maybe two months to get acclimated," she said. Trustees thanked Del Rosso and discussed whether to schedule planning to overlap the superintendent search or wait until a new hire is settled.

Del Rosso emphasized student voice and community inclusion, noting the process brings together students, parents, staff, and community stakeholders to create a shared district roadmap.

Next steps: Trustees received the presentation and will consider the timing of the strategic plan relative to the superintendent search and return with scheduling suggestions at upcoming committee meetings.