File:  AD - Mission Statement/Educational Philosophy

Mission statement

Our community learning partnership empowers each student to become a vital, productive citizen.

Educational philosophy

The Board believes that each individual student should be accepted into the educational program as he/she is and that the student should be provided with a stimulating environment, facilities and opportunities for learning experiences.

The Board recognizes that the course of study that we offer to our students is of extreme importance and accepts the responsibility to:

·  Provide a free and appropriate education for every student, grades K-12.

·  Provide a sound educational background in the communication skills (reading, mathematics and language).

·  Help each child develop realistic goals and basic career skills.

·  Continually evaluate and revise policies, procedures and curriculum to best meet the needs of our students in the complex changing world of the future.

The Board believes that good education must be based on accurate learning theories that have been supported by research and proven in the classroom. The Board believes that:

·  Students must be developmentally ready for the tasks they are given.

·  Learning ranges from concrete skills and facts to abstract concepts.

·  Learning can only occur when the tasks are meaningful to the learner.

·  Time on task and learning go hand in hand.

·  Learning is based on effective interaction between student and teacher.

·  Education is not restricted to school but also occurs outside the school setting.

The Board also recognizes that an educational program must instill a personal commitment for the betterment of humankind in children and adults. With this in mind, the district must take responsibility to:

·  Develop a belief in the democratic way of life and to help students acquire the abilities and skills needed to fulfill their responsibilities to society.

·  Provide an education that will allow students to develop a respect for the beliefs and rights of others.

·  Help students develop a positive attitude, an appreciation of human values, and the ability to work with others.

·  Provide for the development of the decision making process in all students.

The Board recognizes that educational opportunities do not end with the granting of a high school diploma. With this in mind, the Board pledges its resources to:

·  Provide continuing educational opportunities to district citizens.

·  Inform citizens regarding the need for further education past high school graduation.

·  Provide recreational opportunities to district patrons.

The Board recognizes that the assets of the district extend beyond the buildings, grounds, equipment and supplies provided. Of greater importance are the teaching and supporting staffs and those of volunteers throughout the community who give freely of their time for others. The district pledges its best efforts to hire and maintain a superior staff of employees.

The Board recognizes that the district shall strive to provide a safe environment, meaningful opportunities and innovative educational programs for all students so that they reach their learning potential, including that they meet or exceed district academic standards, through partnerships among home, school and the community.

Above all the Board recognizes that this educational philosophy can only be effective if everyone in the district, including administrators, Board members, teaching staff, support staff, parents, students and other community members, work together in a trustful and sharing relationship.

Adopted:  July 14, 1983

Revised:  September 24, 1991

Revised:  August 26, 1993

Revised:  October 9, 2000

Revised:  October 30, 2017

LEGAL REF.:  C.R.S. 22-32-109.1 (1.5) (requirement that mission statement reflect safety for students and staff as a priority)

CROSS REF.:    IHBK*, Preparation for Postsecondary and Workforce Success