*Mission+Process

This is the statement that answers the question, "Why do we exist?" Thus, it states our fundamental purpose for existing by clarifying our priorities and sharpening our focus.
The statements below are two drafts of our Heritage High School Mission Statement. These represent our current thinking after research, reflection and discussion. We invite your feedback regarding these drafts. Weigh in on your preference and offer general feedback regarding these two attempts to capture the essence of our purpose and focus at HHS.

=//Draft A (Sept. 16, 2008)//= =As a community of learners, founded on the principles of integrity and respect, we are committed to rigorous and relevant learning for all students. We cultivate meaningful collaborative relationships. We develop global citizens who are innovative, critical thinkers and life-long learners prepared for the challenge of leading in the 21st century.= = = =//Draft B (Sept. 16, 2008)//= =As leaders in secondary education, the community members of Heritage High School are committed to:= =- creative and critical thinking= =- integrity and respect= =- rigorous,meaningful and inspired learning= =- the establishment of relevant connections between students and their studies, and= =- a nurturing of lifelong learners prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.=


 * The following drafts and comments reveal some of the thinking and discussion that led us to our current proposals.

Draft #1 -** Heritage is committed to inspire learning, cultivate relationships, and instill habits that make a difference in society.

Heritage High School, along with parents and the community, will provide an environment where students make meaningful connections between their learning and the real world and where they develop skills in collaboration, social responsibility, and life-long learning.
 * Draft #2** -

(Notes) Curriculum - Instruction - Culture -
 * connect to real world in a meaningful way (relevant)
 * problem solving
 * critical thinking
 * inquisitive
 * essential ideas of core academics areas
 * collaborative (teacher/students)
 * active learners
 * use assessment to support further learning
 * technology
 * relationships

We are committed to integrity and dedicated to excellence. We empower our students to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
 * Draft #3** -

As an active member of the Heritage High School community, students will become empowered learners and productive global citizens through a challenging comprehensive curriculum and a first class extracurricular program.
 * Draft #4** -
 * Relevant Learning Opportunities
 * Rigorous Academic Work
 * Meaningful Relationships

Maureen's attempt at combining some of the points mentioned in the 4 drafts: Heritage High School is committed to excellence in learning, nurturing of productive global citizens and fostering relevant connections for students to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

I love Maureen's draft!!! This is Mary Kay's attempt at a draft which is almost a carbon copy of Maureen's: We, the community of Heritage High School, commit ourselves towards: - Representing excellence in learning; - Establishing relevant connections between students and their studies; and - Nurturing students to become productive global citizens.

In the above statements from Maureen and Mary Kay, I love the last two points. They are specific and represent what we have been discussing about relevance and global education. What could we say that would make "excellence in learning" more specific? Could we change it to "rigorous and meaningful learning" or does that also seem too vague? (Amanda)

I think we might be able to combine the statement about relevant connections between students and their studies with the global citizen piece. What about "a curriculum for students that is relevant to their role as global citizens." (Tony H.)