In all of The Learning Collective’s strategic planning engagements, we incorporate core elements. In our work with Florida and Oklahoma authorizers – as well as our collaborations with individual schools such as Discovery Charter School, Beginning with Children and Academy of the City – we take these five steps:

  1. Articulate the Vision. A vision is an organization’s reason for existence and the long-term desired change to which that organization wants to contribute. A vision statement is clear and short enough that anyone can remember it – it’s usually 15 words or less. These are some good examples of vision statements.
  2. Craft or Update the Mission. A mission is an organization’s succinct and measurable plans to realize that vision. A mission statement should fit on a t-shirt and be meaningful to everyone at an organization, including children.
  3. Conduct a SWOT Analysis. This refers to identifying the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats related to an organization’s mission.
  4. Formulate SMART Goals. A SMART goal is Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timebound.
  5. Create Action Steps. An Action Step is a discrete activity that enables the achievement of a particular SMART Goal.