Governance
The Menifee Union School District carries a deep urgency for learning recovery. We have added instructional minutes to the day, brought back summer school programs, begun scaling our Expanded Learning Opportunities Program and, most notably, continued in the implementation of our Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) plan. Through substantial input from educators across the district, we were able to identify 18 high-leverage practices that are sure to have a positive impact on the academic, behavioral and social-emotional success of students. One of our district’s practices that truly energizes me is the ongoing observation and data collection. District staff consistently review data provided by rigorous assessments, whether formative or summative, and couple that with “Learning Walks,” which are critical opportunities for our staff to observe practices, not people. Additionally, we have a comprehensive school counseling program that works in tandem with the MTSS plan to support students’ development.
Please describe the current morale in your district. What is the board doing to improve or maintain it?
Secondly, a critical component of engagement is providing professional development that is timely and effective and that instills a sense of self-confidence. Lastly, we have various internal and external communications strategies that highlight the individuals that make up our organization. Each week, we highlight a new employee through “The MUSD MVP Newsletter” and feature staff regularly on our social media channels. Our culminating event, the annual Evening of Excellence, celebrates some of our finest, peer-nominated staff.
What are some ways the district is sharing positive news and/or support with families and the community?
Additionally, our Family Engagement Team regularly connects families to local resources, hosts educational workshops and even visits student homes to learn how to best support their attendance. Finally, we made an investment in the formation of a Communications and Community Engagement Department, which is tasked with amplifying all of the celebrations taking place throughout MUSD as well as faithfully delivering public information. We have seen a notable increase in positive coverage from local, influential media sources.
What fictional character do you most relate to and why?