Develop a ‘theory of action’ for our school district

In the Cedar Rapids Community School District we are focused on innovation and continuous improvement. More specifically, we want to continue to personalize the school experience for each student while still building on the strong foundation and rich traditions that endure in the District. In 2016 we will engage in that work through a process known as a Theory of Action.

Simply stated, a Theory of Action is an organization's story of how and why the world would be different because of its efforts. Even more specifically, it is a system of rules, procedures, and assumptions used to produce a result. An example might be weight loss. With that as the intended result, the rules, procedures, and assumptions may include additional physical activity, the use of data tracking technologies, teaming with an accountability partner, and changes in diet. The belief being that by engaging in these actions and activities the result of lost weight will be more likely.

The vision for our school district is 'Excellence for All” and our Theory of Action will use a collaborative, inclusive process to identify the rules, procedures, and assumptions that are most likely to lead to that outcome for all of our students. We will involve internal audience members from all of our employee groups in this process as well as parents, guardians, and students. We also will invite members of our external stakeholder groups to take part in the work.

Please consider this as an invitation to visit the District website after Jan. 6 to learn more about this important work and for information about participating in the process. If your schedule does not allow for a series of evening meetings, we also will be inviting broad community feedback on the draft work of the group in the spring.

I am proud to serve as superintendent of Cedar Rapids Schools. Cedar Rapids is a great place in which to live, work, play - and learn! Continuing to make our public education system stronger contributes to the overall health of our city and we look forward to engaging our community in a process focused on helping us to become even better.

' Brad Buck is superintendent of the Cedar Rapids Community School District. Comments: BBuck@cr.k12.ia.us