Strategic Planning

August, 2025

Dear Kennett Consolidated School District Community:

I am proud to share the result of our year-long collaboration to explore what makes Kennett uniquely special. Thanks to your generous time and dedication, we have created a strategic plan that builds on our strengths while addressing our challenges.

Through many interviews, focus groups, surveys, observations, events, subcommittee meetings, and careful analysis, we have developed a plan aligned with our District’s vision: to nurture, prepare, and empower all students.

I want to sincerely thank our students, parents, staff, teachers, administrators, and community partners for their thoughtful contributions throughout this process. Your commitment to the success of our educational community and its students is truly inspiring.

Please take a moment to review the five priorities we’ve identified, along with their goals and action steps, which will guide our path forward. These summaries represent key guideposts within a more detailed plan that we will continue to refine. We look forward to sharing ongoing progress toward delivering:

• A Future-Ready Student Experience
• High-Quality Teaching and Learning
• Impactful and Empowered Educators
• An Informed, Engaged, and Supported Community
• A 21st Century Learning Environment

Our success will be measured by clear targets that allow us to track and adjust our efforts. We are committed to keeping you informed with regular updates and data as we move ahead.

Thank you for entrusting us with the education of your children and the care of our community. Our success will be reflected in the innovative thinkers we inspire, the inclusive relationships we build, and the meaningful educational experiences we provide to help every learner reach their full potential.

With gratitude,
Dr. Kimberly Rizzo Saunders
Superintendent

The Kennett Consolidated School District (KCSD), located in southeastern Chester County, Pennsylvania, serves approximately 3,800 students across six schools—from a dedicated Kindergarten Center to Kennett High School. At the heart of our 34-square-mile district lies the historic Borough of Kennett Square, proudly known as the Mushroom Capital of the World. This rich cultural and agricultural heritage shapes the vibrant character of our schools and community.

Founded on a legacy of educational excellence dating back to 1930, when Pierre S. du Pont funded the creation of Kennett High School, KCSD remains committed to preparing students for success in a rapidly changing world. Our strength lies in the dedication of our educators and the diversity of our community: many of our students are Hispanic and speak Spanish at home, enriching our district with multilingual and multicultural perspectives.

KCSD offers robust academic and extracurricular programs, a strong partnership with the Chester County Technical College High School, and the innovative Kennett Future Ready initiative, which provides students with access to dual enrollment, industry credentials, and real-world learning experiences.

Looking to the future, KCSD is investing in modern learning environments, with two new elementary schools opening in 2026, and continuing to expand access to high-quality programs and facilities, such as the Legacy Fields Complex. Together with our families and community partners, we are building a 21st-century educational experience that honors our past and empowers every learner for the future.

In August 2024, Superintendent Dr. Kimberly Rizzo Saunders introduced her 
90-Day Entry Plan—Listen, Learn, Lead—as a framework to guide her initial months as Superintendent of the Kennett Consolidated School District. During this time, she visited schools and classrooms, engaging in thoughtful conversations with a broad range of stakeholders, including students, staff, families, teachers, administrators, board members, former superintendents, and community leaders. Through interviews, focus groups, and surveys, she gathered valuable insights into the District’s strengths as well as areas for continued growth.

In January 2025, Dr. Rizzo Saunders presented her Entry Plan Report, which laid the groundwork for the District’s new five-year strategic education plan.  A communication audit was also completed by the Chester County Intermediate Unit. 

To build on this foundation, administrative leadership convened a steering committee of 70 stakeholders—including administrators, teachers, parents, and community members—charged with analyzing the data and identifying the District’s most pressing strengths, challenges, and opportunities. From January through May 2025, this group participated in ten 90-minute collaborative workshops. Facilitated by District leaders, subcommittees focused on six priority areas: 

• Curriculum, instruction, and assessment
• Student supports
• Facilities, finance, and operations
• Technology
• Communication
• Human Resources

Using a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis, each subcommittee refined its focus, developing problem statements, defining success criteria, and establishing evaluation metrics.

The findings from this process informed the final roadmap, developed by the Superintendent and Leadership Team. The resulting strategic plan presents a clear vision for a future-ready student experience—anchored in high-quality teaching and learning, supported by a strong and collaborative educational team, and strengthened through meaningful community engagement. It aims to ensure safe, innovative, and inclusive environments where all Kennett students are prepared to thrive in a dynamic, connected 21st-century world.

Highlights

• 70 One-to-One Interviews
• 102 English and Spanish-Speaking Focus Group Participants
• 3,000 Pages of Reports and Documents
• 1000+ Survey Participants

*25% of participants were representative of the Spanish-speaking community demonstrating an increased level of engagement that will reflects a continued effort to engage the Hispanic community in Kennett.

Thank You

Highlights

• 1 Steering Committee
• 6 Subcommittees
• 50 Staff
• 4 Board Members
• 16 Community Members/Parents

Allie Appleman	Katie King
Chanel August	Duane Kotz
Denise Aungst	Dave Kronenberg
Brenna Austin	Marie Lawson
Leticia Baldwin	Rebecca Luthultz
Michael Barber	Kate Madigan
Nicole Boddy	Dan Maguire
Kristy Brady	Chris Manna
Dave Brice	Devin Manion
Sandy Caldwell	Chris Marsala
Marta Carletti	Jen Miller
Ethan Cramer	Erin Miller
Veronica Gamboa	Crissy Meko
Lorenzo DeAngelis	Leah McComsey
Joanne DiEmidio	Bridgette Miles
Regina Donato	Jake Moore
Michael Donovan	Basia Moltchanov
Randie Edelman	Kerry Myers
Kelly Figueroa	Tricia O’Loughlin
Michael Finnegan	Lisa Palmarni
Dan Folmar	Ann Parry
Chris Farmer	Kourtney Phillips
Mike Gilmartin	April Reynolds
Victoria Gehrt	Kimberly Rizzo Saunders
Dan Gannon	Katie Rupard
Megan Greener	Carolyn Smith
Scott Grimes	Kimberly Suydam
Cassandra Heno	Jeff Thomas
Samantha Hrubiec	Mark Tracy
Angie Houghton	Natalie Vanhoorekeke
Mike Imperato	Rebecca Vietri
Dean Ivory	Elizabeth Weaver
Casandra Jones
Tammy Klinger

 

Vision

The Kennett Consolidated School District (KCSD) is an inclusive community that nurtures, prepares and empowers ALL, showing everyone they matter in their journey to succeed in the world.

Mission

To inspire innovative thinkers by fostering inclusive, supportive relationships, and developing resiliency through rigorous, relevant, educational experiences.

Core Values

• Integrity
• Resilience
• Student-Centered
• Accountability
• Collaboration

 

The Steering Committee reviewed and analyzed data captured by the Entry Plan Report, the Communication Audit, as well as student data related to academic performance, academic growth, attendance, passing rates, employee diversity, and student enrollment.  Here are some examples of data that informed our work.  

Enrollment Graphic (year and total enrollment)

• 15-16: 4172
• 16-17: 4150
• 17-18: 4177
• 18-19: 4145
• 19-20: 4158
• 20-21: 4012
• 21-22: 3959
• 22-23: 3902
• 23-24: 3870

Highlights*

• Total Enrollment: 3870

• Total Schools: 6
• Enrollment In Technical HS: 173
• District Miles Geographic Size: 34.17

*Data is from the 2023 - 2024 school year

Special Education Graphic

2015-2016 Percentage of Students

• IEP 15.3%
• 504: 3.1%
• ELD 13.9%
• Reg Ed 67.7%

2016-2017 Percentage of Students

• IEP 13.7%
• 504: 1.3%
• ELD 14.1%
• Reg Ed 70.9%

2017-2018 Percentage of Students

• IEP 13.1%
• 504: 1.1%
• ELD 14.1%
• Reg Ed 71.8%

2018-2019 Percentage of Students

• IEP 12.5%
• 504: 5.2%
• ELD 14.7%
• Reg Ed 67.5%

2019-2020 Percentage of Students

• IEP 11.4%
• 504: 5.3%
• ELD 15.3%
• Reg Ed 68.1%

2020-2021 Percentage of Students

• IEP 12.4%
• 504: 6.6%
• ELD 15.3%
• Reg Ed 65.8%

2021-2022 Percentage of Students

• IEP 11.5%
• 504: 6.7%
• ELD 15.5%
• Reg Ed 66.2%

2022-2023 Percentage of Students

• IEP 11.8%
• 504: 4.7%
• ELD 16.5%
• Reg Ed 67%

2023-2024 Percentage of Students

• IEP 14%
• 504: 4.1%
• ELD 16.6%
• Reg Ed 65.3%

Highlights

• Special Education: 14.3%
• English Learners: 16.6%
• Economically Disadvantaged Students: 47.5%
• Homeless: 6.3%

Economically Disadvantaged

• 15-16: 41.6%
• 16-17: 44.5%
• 17-18: 44%
• 18-19: 43.8%
• 19-20: 43.7%
• 20-21: 42%
• 21-22: 40.6%
• 22-23: 45.9% 
• 23-24: 47.5%

*Data is from the 2023 - 2024 school year

Racial Makeup

• 15-16: 95 black students, 1803 hispanic students, 2120 white students, 58 multiracial, 92 asian
• 16-17: 98 black students, 1805 hispanic students, 2076 white students, 72 multiracial, 94 asian
• 17-18: 87 black students, 1841 hispanic students, 2069 white students, 85 multiracial, 90 asian
• 18-19: 86 black students, 1828 hispanic students, 2041 white students, 97 multiracial, 88 asian
• 19-20: 81 black students, 1853 hispanic students, 2022 white students, 117 multiracial, 80 asian
• 20-21: 75 black students, 1816 hispanic students, 1917 white students, 121 multiracial, 78 asian
• 21-22: 79 black students, 1755 hispanic students, 1920 white students, 130 multiracial, 71 asian
• 22-23: 71 black students,  1740 hispanic students, 1891 white students, 131 multiracial, 65 asian 
• 23-24: 74 black students, 1742 hispanic students, 1859 white students, 124 multiracial, 67 asian

Highlights

• White Enrollment: 48%
• Hispanic Enrollment: 45%
• Black Enrollment: 2%
• Asian Enrollment: 1.7%
• Percent Graduation 4-Year Cohort: 92.4%
• Career Standards Benchmark: 98.7%

*Data is from the 2023 - 2024 school year

Strengths to Build On

As evidenced by the Pennsylvania Future Ready Index*

Overall Elementary Performance in Science

• State Average Proficient: 59.2%
• Bancroft: 88.7%
• Greenwood: 83.3%
• New Garden: 76.5%

Overall Elementary ELA Growth Metric Score

• Average State School Growth Score: 70%
• Bancroft: 100%
• Greenwood: 80%
• New Garden: 99%

Percent Attaining Career Standards Benchmark

• Statewide Percentage: 91.4%
• KHS: 98.6%
• KMS: 98.7%

Over All Student 4-Year Cohort Graduation Rate

• Statewide Average: 87.6%
• KCSD: 92.4%

*District and school data as measured by the Future Ready PA Index can be found at futurereadypa.org

Each priority is supported by goals and action steps to be monitored and measured over the life of the plan.

A Future-Ready Student Experience defined by equitable access to a guaranteed, viable, and culturally relevant curriculum for all students, and supported by a District-wide Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS).

High-Quality Teaching and Learning  sustained through ongoing, comprehensive professional development that fosters continuous growth and targets key areas for improvement.

Impactful and Empowered Educators  acquired and retained with strategic recruitment practices and competitive compensation.

Informed, Engaged and Supported Community empowered and partnered to build our future. 

21st Century Learning Environment that delivers a secure and safe physical and digital environment accessible  to all.

Develop a guaranteed and viable curriculum to ensure that all students have equitable access to instruction in essential, standards-based content and skills.

Action Steps

Curate and Adopt Evidence-Based Curriculum Resources: Establish a clear process to identify, evaluate, and adopt research-based programs and materials that support diverse learners, including students with disabilities and English Language Learners.

Establish and Implement the Seal of Biliteracy Program:  Develop policies, criteria, and processes to recognize bilingual proficiency through outreach, application, and award procedures.

Develop a Future-Ready Profile of a Graduate and Instructional Model: Define essential competencies through “Profile of a Graduate” and aligned “I Can” statements. Design an instructional model and implement Cornerstone Experiences to support authentic, flexible learning.

Conduct Curriculum Audit and Develop Aligned Curriculum Framework: Audit existing curriculum to identify gaps, then design a vertically and horizontally aligned framework with clear learning outcomes, common assessments, and instructional support through walkthroughs and coaching.

Implement a Six-Year Curriculum Review Cycle with Equity Focus: Establish a structured review cycle that embeds culturally responsive practices, closes achievement gaps, and engages diverse stakeholders in curriculum planning and evaluation.

Enhance Professional Development, Technology, and Enrichment Strategies: Strengthen tech infrastructure and training to support AI-enhanced, data-informed, and culturally responsive instruction. Embed enrichment and age-appropriate AI education by Grade 8, with sustainable planning aligned to classroom realities.

Strengthen the District’s use of data to guide decision-making by setting up data teams, increasing staff skills in working with data, and implementing consistent assessment tools and procedures to improve student outcomes.

Action Steps

Define Data Teams and Establish Uniform Protocols: Clarify data team roles and create consistent protocols to support collaborative, data-driven decision-making.

Provide Role-Specific and Comprehensive Data Training: Deliver targeted training on data management, reporting, and intervention, plus broad training to equip educators in assessment administration and interpretation.

Develop and Implement Progress Monitoring Guidelines: Establish clear guidelines on purpose, procedures, frequency, roles, tools, goals, and data analysis for consistent progress monitoring across tiers.

Adapt Data Management Systems and Set Rollout Milestones: Customize data systems for timely access, create dashboards, align MTSS procedures, and set annual rollout milestones with clear timelines.

Establish Clear Referral Pathways and Staff Training: Develop referral pathways incorporating universal screening, Early Warning System indicators, and streamlined staff referral processes. Provide staff training to ensure consistent understanding, communication, and documentation of these pathways.

Implement Intervention Procedures, Coaching, and Evaluation: Ensure timely student movement through tiers with clear criteria and decision rules. Define intervention plans and accountability, establish coaching supports, and maintain ongoing evaluation via audits and feedback.

Establish an integrated Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) across all KCSD schools to provide equitable access to academic, social-emotional, and behavioral interventions for all students.

Action Steps

Develop and Implement a K-12 Tier 2 Intervention Framework: Create and maintain an evidence-based Tier 2 framework, differentiating supports for K–8 and 9–12, while ensuring effective supplementation of Tier 1. Establish systematic Tier 1 supports at the secondary level.

Establish Standardized Tier 2 Protocols and Professional Development: Set clear Tier 2 protocols for group size, frequency, monitoring, and escalation criteria. Deliver ongoing training on evidence-based practices like explicit instruction and gradual release.

Develop an Evidence-Based Tier 3 Intervention Framework and Protocols: Design a Tier 3 framework aligned with Tiers 1 and 2, with standardized protocols for group size, frequency, monitoring, and escalation to problem-solving teams.

Deliver Specialized Tier 3 Training and Support: Offer targeted training on Tier 3 delivery, focusing on fidelity, explicit instruction, individualized supports, data use, and family engagement.

Restructure Collaborative Meetings for Data-Driven Intervention Adjustments: Redesign meetings to review intervention data regularly, including interdisciplinary team members to guide responsive, evidence-based decisions.

Implement SEL Screening and Strengthen Behavioral Frameworks with Training: Launch SEL screening for early identification, update behavioral frameworks regularly, and provide ongoing training in restorative practices for all staff, including new teachers.

Conduct an audit across the entire educational system to assess access to resources and support for all students. 

Action Steps

Establish an Audit Oversight Team and Define Goals: Form a diverse oversight team and clearly define audit goals focused on resources, support services, and curriculum access.

Select a Qualified Third-Party Auditor: Identify and partner with an experienced external organization to plan and conduct the opportunity audit.

Collect and Analyze Quantitative and Qualitative Data: Gather data on resources, demographics, and services, and collect stakeholder feedback to assess opportunities and experiences.

Review Curriculum and Instructional Practices: Assess curriculum for inclusivity and accessibility, and evaluate effectiveness of instructional methods for all learners.

Identify Gaps and Develop Recommendations: Analyze findings with the auditor to identify opportunity gaps and develop actionable recommendations to address them.

Share Results and Create an Implementation Plan: Present findings to stakeholders and develop a clear action plan with timelines, responsibilities, and resource allocations.

 

Evaluate readiness for implementing a Dual Immersion Program.

Action Steps

Assess Current Language Programs and Student Demographics: Collect and analyze data on language programs and student proficiency to identify gaps and needs.

Engage Stakeholders and Collect Community Feedback: Hold meetings and gather input via surveys and focus groups to gauge interest and address concerns about Dual Immersion.

Evaluate Staffing and Recruitment Needs: Assess bilingual staff qualifications, identify gaps, plan recruitment, and explore professional development to build capacity.

Review Curriculum and Resource Alignment: Evaluate curriculum materials for Dual Immersion alignment and identify needed resources for effective implementation.

Develop Partnerships and Provide Targeted Training: Build partnerships with universities and organizations for training and recruitment, and deliver focused Dual Immersion strategy training to staff.

Establish Oversight and Pilot Program: Form a committee to oversee readiness, staffing, and recruitment. Launch pilot classrooms to monitor implementation and student outcomes.

2030 Target Summary

• Percentage of students in kindergarten at or above grade level in ELA (Tier 1)
  • Baseline: 79%
  • Target: 89%
  • Measure: AIMSWEB

 

• Percentage of students in grades 1 - 2 at or above grade level in ELA (Tier 1)
  • Baseline: 61%
  • Target: 81%
  • Measure: AIMSWEB

 

• Percentage of students in grades 3 - 5 at orabove grade level in ELA (Tier 1)
  • Baseline: 74%
  • Target: 84%
  • Measure: AIMSWEB

 

• Percentage of students in grades 6 - 8 at or above grade level in ELA (Tier 1)
  • Baseline: 74%
  • Target: 84%
  • Measure: AIMSWEB

 

• Percentage of kindergarten students at or above grade level (Tier 1) for achievement targets on benchmark assessments Math
  • Baseline: 72%
  • Target: 82%
  • Measure: iREADY

 

• Percentage of grade 1 - 2 students at or above grade level (Tier 1) for achievement targets on benchmark assessments Math
  • Baseline: 58%
  • Target: 78%
  • Measure: iREADY

 

• Percentage of grade 3 - 5 students at or above grade level (Tier 1) for achievement targets on benchmark assessments Math
  • Baseline: 60%
  • Target: 80%
  • Measure: iREADY

 

• Percentage of grade 6 - 8 students at or above grade level (Tier 1) for achievement targets on benchmark assessments Math (does not include KMS Alg 1 or Geometry students)
  • Baseline: 43%
  • Target: 63%
  • Measure: iREADY

 

• Percentage of 3 - 8 students proficient or advanced on PSSA ELA
  • Baseline: 55%
  • Target: 70%
  • Measure: PA FUTURE READY

 

• Percentage of 3 - 8 students proficient or advanced on PSSA Math
  • Baseline: 47%
  • Target: 62%
  • Measure: PA FUTURE READY

 

• Graduation Rate
  • Baseline: 92.7%
  • Target: 97.7%
  • Measure: Diploma

 

• Literature Keystone Exam
  • Baseline: 51% proficient or advanced
  • 66% proficient or advanced
  • Measure: Keystone Scores

 

• Algebra Keystone Exam
  • Baseline: 46% proficient or advanced
  • 61% proficient or advanced
  • Measure: Keystone Scores

 

• Biology Keystone Exam
  • Baseline 43% proficient or advanced
  • Target: 58% proficient or advanced
  • Keystone Scores

Foster a collaborative culture that empowers teachers and staff to take an active leadership role in shaping and guiding professional development decisions.

Action Steps

Establish a Professional Development Committee (PDC): Form a diverse committee representing teachers, administrators, and staff; define its purpose, scope, roles, responsibilities, and governance structure to ensure transparency.

Develop Governance and Communication Structures: Set clear meeting schedules and communication protocols to keep staff informed and engaged in professional development planning.

Create Subcommittees for Key Focus Areas: Launch Collaborative Assessment Plan (CAP) and Evaluation subcommittees to address teacher evaluation processes and instructional alignment.

Adopt a Shared Vision and Instructional Framework: Collaboratively define the PDC’s vision and mission and select an instructional framework aligned to district goals and best practices.

Standardize Evaluation Procedures: Implement consistent evaluation methods using tools like the Danielson Rubric and Perform platform to ensure fairness and instructional coherence.

Deliver Targeted Professional Learning: Provide training on curriculum mapping software and other district initiatives to support instructional planning and teacher development.

Develop and implement a comprehensive plan that provides educators with targeted opportunities to acquire and apply the skills necessary for high-quality teaching and learning.

Action Steps

Create and Maintain a Multi-Year PD Schedule: Develop and annually update a professional development calendar (2025–2028) aligned with KCSD’s Instructional Focus, incorporating in-service days, Monday PD, team time, and key review dates.

Ensure Compliance with Mandated Trainings: Track and deliver all required PDE trainings (e.g., Act 48, Act 126, Act 71, Title IX) using inclusive, accessible formats tailored to educator roles.

Align PD to Instructional Priorities and Equity: Center all professional learning around evidence-based practices in literacy, math, SEL, and restorative practices—grounded in the KCSD Instructional Focus and “I can” learning statements, with attention to diverse learner needs.

Deepen Practice Through Differentiated Learning: Offer role-specific PD that builds capacity in UDL, classroom management, early literacy, and cross-content literacy skills, while upholding equity and high expectations.

Build Internal Capacity for Sustainability: Launch a Train-the-Trainer model, expand instructional coaching, and empower teacher leaders and administrators to model and mentor high-impact practices.

Redesign Induction and Elevate Staff Voice: Strengthen onboarding for new teachers with foundational training and mentoring, while promoting educator input and ownership through choice-based PD, feedback loops, and shared success stories.

Ensure consistent, high-quality teaching across all buildings through aligned instructional practices, targeted professional development, and ongoing monitoring and support.

Action Steps

Identify Target Staff Groups: Analyze educator roles and student data to prioritize staff groups for differentiated, job-specific professional development.

Develop a Comprehensive PD Menu: Create a professional learning menu aligned with district goals and curriculum, emphasizing clear objectives and evidence-based strategies.

Standardize PD Format and Evaluation: Implement a consistent session structure that includes pre- and post-session surveys to measure effectiveness and guide improvements.

Streamline PD Tracking and Reporting: Use PowerSchool to accurately track attendance, engagement, and completion of all professional development, including mandated training.

Elevate Teacher Voice and Inclusivity: Involve teachers in the design and planning of PD to ensure relevance, inclusivity, and alignment with classroom realities.

Support Ongoing Learning and Implementation: Offer follow-up supports like mini-courses, refresher trainings, and coaching to reinforce learning and monitor instructional impact.

2030 Target Summary

• % of Professional Staff Attendance at PD Days measured by registrations in PowerSchool Professional Learning
  • Baseline: 2024-25 82% registered
  • Target: 92% (2% per year increase)
  • Measure: Registrations in PowerSchool Professional Learning
• % of staff who determine PD relevance: "The content was appropriate for me and my area of responsibility."
  • Baseline: 2024 - 2025 78.6%
  • Target: 86.6% (2% per year increase)
  • Measure: Professional development survey data

 

 

Recruit high-quality instructional staff to meet the diverse needs of our students.

Action Steps

Establish a Teacher Pipeline Program: Launch a secondary-level pipeline initiative that targets underrepresented populations, with a focus on cultivating bilingual and diverse future educators.

Strengthen New Teacher Induction: Enhance the induction program to support early-career educators with targeted mentoring, training, and resources aligned to district priorities.

Recognize Prior Experience: Develop a strategy for crediting prior years of service to make the district more competitive and attractive to experienced candidates.

Form a District Recruitment Team: Create a cross-functional recruitment team including administrators from various levels and departments to lead hiring efforts and represent the district in consortium initiatives.

Collaborate with CCIU and External Partners: Partner with the CCIU recruitment consortium and other organizations to expand outreach and access a broader, more diverse candidate pool.

Retain high-quality instructional staff to meet the diverse needs of our students.

Action Steps

Strengthen Mentoring and Support Systems: Enhance the mentoring and intensive supervision program to provide new and early-career educators with personalized, ongoing support.

Develop a Comprehensive Staff Feedback and Evaluation Process: Implement a transparent, growth-focused evaluation system that incorporates regular feedback, promotes reflection, and informs professional learning.

Establish a Leadership Development Program: Create pathways for aspiring teacher-leaders and administrators through targeted training, mentorship, and leadership opportunities within the district.

Foster a Culture of Professional Growth: Encourage continuous improvement by aligning support systems with instructional priorities and career advancement goals.

Promote Staff Voice in Decision-Making: Engage educators in shaping retention strategies and district initiatives through surveys, committees, and shared leadership opportunities.

Monitor Retention Data and Trends: Regularly review retention metrics and feedback to identify trends, address concerns proactively, and improve staff satisfaction and support.

Create a total compensation package that allows KCSD to stay competitive in Chester County.

Action Steps

Conduct a Compensation Analysis: Review and compare KCSD salary and benefits packages with neighboring districts to identify areas for improvement and ensure regional competitiveness.

Establish a Turnover Rate Baseline: Analyze current staff retention data to set a benchmark and track the impact of compensation-related initiatives over time.

Evaluate and Enhance Fringe Benefits: Review existing fringe benefits and explore new offerings to increase overall employee satisfaction.

Implement Premium Pay for High-Need Roles: Offer stipends or enhanced compensation for certified bilingual staff and positions identified as critical-need areas.

Engage Stakeholders in Compensation Planning: Involve staff and leadership in reviewing findings and prioritizing enhancements to ensure transparency and alignment with district goals.

 

Update policies and procedures to align with district mission and vision.

Action Steps

Establish a District-Wide Policy Review Cycle: Implement a structured, rotating review schedule that assigns each department responsibility for regularly evaluating and updating relevant policies.

Align Policies with Mission and Vision: Ensure all policy revisions reflect the district’s core values, strategic priorities, and commitment to equity, inclusivity, and academic excellence.

Assign Departmental Accountability: Clearly define which departments oversee specific policies and require documentation of review, updates, and stakeholder input.

Review and Approve the District Handbook Annually: Conduct a comprehensive yearly review of the district handbook with administrative input and submit for School Board approval to ensure compliance and relevance.

Engage Stakeholders in Policy Development: Continue to include teachers, families, and community members in policy discussions to ensure diverse perspectives inform decisions.

Maintain Transparent Communication: Publicly share updated policies and procedures and provide clear guidance to staff and families on any changes and their implications.

2030 Target Summary

• Increase quantity of certified applicants per professional job posting
  • Baseline: TBD: 2025 - 2026 baseline not finalized
  • Target: 19% increase overall
  • Measure: Analytics reporting from PowerSchool Applican Tracking
• Increase offer acceptance rate
  • Baseline: 2025-2026 baseline not finalized
  • Target: 19% increase overall
  • Measure: Offer acceptance rate
• Increase applicant pool of diverse candidates
  • Baseline: 2025-2026 baseline not finalized
  • Target: 19% increase overall
  • Measure: Diverse candidates measured
• Increase retention rate (for 3 or more years)
  • Baseline: 2025-2026 baseline not finalized
  • Target: Increase from 90 - 100%
  • Measure: Retention measured

 

Develop communication and PR strategies to inform and engage our community and leverage our unique character, diversity, and strong sense of pride.

Action Steps

Assess Current Communication Practices: Review the communication audit, entry plan report, and strategic plan to identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities for improvement.

Clarify and Celebrate KCSD’s Identity: Define and highlight examples of KCSD’s unique character, diversity, and pride to shape clear and authentic messaging.

Refresh Brand Identity: Revisit KCSD’s visual and verbal identity—including logos, colors, voice, and messaging—to ensure consistency and alignment with district values and positioning.

Map and Expand Key Audiences: Identify all internal and external audiences, assess communication platforms for effectiveness and accessibility, and choose media that ensures broad and inclusive reach.

Strengthen Community and Media Relationships: Build and sustain partnerships with local media, PTOs, arts and athletics representatives, cultural groups, and other key stakeholders.

Showcase the KCSD Story: Strategically plan and share stories that spotlight individuals and groups embodying KCSD’s values, enhancing district visibility and community engagement.

Organize and centralize communication at every level to eliminate barriers by promoting clarity, efficiency, and connection.

Establish Clear Communication Systems and Roles: Define communication responsibilities at the district, department, and school levels, and create a centralized communication calendar to coordinate efforts and messaging.

Streamline Platforms and Messaging Channels: Identify and clearly communicate which platforms (e.g., website, email, text, voice, social media, newsletters) will be used for various types of messages to reduce confusion and improve consistency.

Maintain Accurate, Segmented Contact Information: Ensure all student, family, and staff data in SchoolMessenger is current and organized by audience for effective and targeted outreach.

Ensure Inclusive and Accessible Messaging: Provide communications in at least two languages, written at a 5th-grade reading level to maximize accessibility for all families and stakeholders.
 

Support Strategic Storytelling and Content Collection: Implement a system for gathering and sharing stories, photos, and updates from across the district that align with the education and communication plans.

Use Technology and Data to Improve Communication: Explore tools (e.g., AI, content management platforms) to streamline content creation and sharing, and incorporate analytics and stakeholder surveys to measure impact and guide improvements.

 

Build and reinforce trust by acknowledging that all stakeholders share a common interest of success for all students.

Establish Two-Way Communication Channels: Grow accessible feedback loops—surveys, forums, listening sessions, and focus groups—to regularly hear from families, students, and staff, and show how their input shapes decisions.

Provide Timely and Transparent Crisis Communication: Deliver clear, accurate, and consistent updates across multiple platforms during urgent or sensitive situations to minimize confusion and demonstrate leadership.

Celebrate Shared Successes Across the District: Regularly highlight examples of student growth, innovative teaching, and community contributions that reinforce a collective commitment to student success.

Publish a “You Spoke, We Listened” Update: Periodically report back to stakeholders on actions taken in response to feedback to demonstrate responsiveness and accountability.

Model Inclusive and Respectful Engagement: Ensure all communications reflect inclusive language, honor diverse perspectives, and reinforce that all families and staff are valued partners in student achievement.

Build Relationships Through School and Community Presence: Encourage district and school leaders to maintain regular, visible presence at events, meetings, and in schools to foster trust and connection.

 

 

 

 

2030 Target Summary

• Strategic Plan Awareness
  • Baseline: 2025 - 2026 Survey Results
  • Target: Increase awareness by 4% per school year
  • Measure: Bi-annual survey results
• Increase volunteers across schools and District events
  • Baseline: TBD
  • Target: Increase volunteers by 2% annually
  • Measure: Tracking at each school and for District Events
• Increase open rates for direct communication (newsletters)
  • Baseline: 2025 - 2026 data
  • Target Increase open rate by 4% annually
  • Smore Data Platform
• Increase social media engagement (likes, shares, views)
  • Baseline: 2025 - 2026 data
  • Target: Increase views and engagement by 10% annually
  • Measure: Social Media platform data
• Increase website visits and engagements
  • Baseline: 2025 - 2026 data
  • Target: Increase page views, engagement, and interactions by 10% annually
  • Measure: Google analytics
• Increase website engagement with Spanish-literate users
  • Baseline: TBD
  • Target: Increase number of words translated on Spanish on website by 4% annually
  • Measure: Bi-annual survey results

Maintain a safe, secure, and accessible physical environment for all stakeholders.

Establish a Safety and Security Leadership Role

Create a dedicated Safety and Security Coordinator position to oversee physical safety initiatives, emergency preparedness, and district-wide response protocols.

Conduct Regular Safety Audits: Implement a three-year rotating schedule of third-party safety audits for each school, using findings to guide a phased corrective action plan in partnership with public safety agencies.

Strengthen Collaboration with Public Safety Partners: Formalize partnerships with local and county emergency services through shared training, communication protocols, and annual reviews of the District All-Hazards Plan.

Enhance Emergency Drill Procedures: Standardize and evaluate monthly emergency drills using a district-wide assessment rubric, with unannounced, scenario-based exercises involving public safety partners and the Emergency Response Team.

Gather Stakeholder Feedback on Safety: Administer annual climate and culture surveys for students, staff, and families to assess perceptions of safety and inform continuous improvement efforts.

Improve Emergency Communication Systems: Expand use of digital tools like Navigate360 and district-wide radio checks to improve response times, communication reliability, and coordination during emergencies.

Develop a secure, future-ready, District-wide framework for physical and cyber safety.

Standardize and Modernize Safety Infrastructure: Implement consistent security systems across all facilities, including access controls, secure vestibules, upgraded surveillance, and communication tools to ensure equitable protection for all students and staff.

Enhance Cybersecurity Measures: Strengthen cybersecurity through third-party audits, threat monitoring tools, and staff access reviews, while partnering with public and private agencies to continuously assess vulnerabilities and implement best practices.

Improve Transportation Safety Systems: Expand and integrate student tracking systems within Transfinder and Skyward to ensure real-time transportation updates, accurate bus lists, and streamlined communication in the event of emergencies.

Expand Surveillance Coverage: Conduct annual reviews of camera placement and functionality in high-traffic areas (e.g., parking lots, cafeterias, gyms) and coordinate with school leaders to implement feasible enhancements.

Monitor and Evaluate Student Safety Perceptions: Include targeted questions in the annual climate survey to assess student experiences with physical and digital safety, using this feedback—along with data from reporting platforms—to inform responsive improvements.

Promote Digital Literacy and Privacy Awareness: Launch developmentally appropriate digital safety and cybersecurity programs for students, staff, and families, while ensuring data privacy compliance with FERPA, COPPA, and third-party vendor agreements.

 

Provide ongoing, real-world safety training for our entire school community, covering physical safety, cybersecurity, and digital citizenship.

Deliver Comprehensive Staff Safety Training: Implement mandatory physical safety training for all staff during August in-service, with mid-year and end-of-year refreshers and monthly emergency response reviews using Navigate360.

Expand Cybersecurity Awareness for Staff: Require staff participation in ongoing cybersecurity training, including simulations, phishing drills, regular communications, and awareness campaigns focused on best practices and safe technology use.

Integrate Ethical Use of Technology in Training: Include instruction on responsible AI use and digital safety aligned with 
K–12 standards in both staff and student training programs.

Launch the Kennett Connected Digital Literacy Initiative: Provide students, staff, and families with access to leveled digital literacy learning opportunities, designed to meet diverse needs and improve platform usage, including Skyward.

Support and Empower Families Through Technology: Strengthen new family onboarding with user-friendly tech tools, accessible surveys, and digital literacy resources to increase guardian engagement with district systems.

Create a Cohesive Orientation Experience for New Staff: Implement a district-wide “Welcome to Kennett Experience” orientation program that ensures new employees are equipped with essential safety, digital, and operational knowledge from day one.

 

Ensure equitable access to all district programs and resources, expand support structures, and eliminate barriers.

Conduct District-wide Equity and Communication Audits: Analyze student and family participation in programs by demographics and assess the reach, accessibility, and effectiveness of district communications to identify and address gaps in awareness and inclusion.

Improve Outreach and Engagement: Refine communication strategies based on audit findings to better celebrate diverse student experiences, highlight opportunities, promote partnerships, and ensure families are aware of available support and translation services.

Expand Access and Support Structures: Identify and strengthen academic and extracurricular support systems—such as peer mentors, club sponsors, and staff “access advocates”—to ensure all students are encouraged and supported in participating fully.

Address Transportation Barriers: Conduct a transportation needs assessment to improve access to district programs and off-site learning opportunities such as field trips, internships, and dual enrollment experiences.

Bridge the Digital Divide: Survey families to identify internet access and digital literacy gaps, then provide targeted supports such as mobile hotspots, tech assistance, and digital skills training to ensure every household can connect.

Ensure Digital Accessibility Compliance: Partner with a third-party vendor to audit all digital platforms for WCAG 2.1 compliance, implement an internal accessibility protocol, train staff and vendors, and publish accessibility policies and remediation progress on the district website.

 

Design and sustain a 21st-century learning environment.

Modernize Physical Learning Spaces: Conduct a phased facilities audit to identify sustainable upgrades that enhance safety, accessibility, aesthetics, and functionality—starting with Kennett High School and expanding to other schools—while aligning improvements with instructional and extracurricular goals.

Redesign Classrooms for Future-Ready Learning: Transform learning environments to support collaboration, blended learning, and creativity through flexible furniture, writable surfaces, and updated infrastructure (Wi-Fi, lighting, HVAC, and power) that supports advanced technology use.

Integrate Artificial Intelligence in Teaching and Learning: Pilot AI tools that personalize instruction, enhance teacher workflow, and elevate student voice. Ensure ethical implementation through transparent policies, training, and collaboration with stakeholders.

Advance Personalized Learning Practices: Equip educators with training and tools to implement learner-centered models—such as UDL and competency-based learning—and use data and adaptive technologies to tailor instruction to student needs, pace, and interests.

Strengthen Technical Support and Integration: Expand and train a dedicated network of Technology Integration Specialists (TIS) to provide coaching, model best practices, and lead building-level implementation of instructional technology, guided by needs assessments and strategic goals.

Invest in Technology Infrastructure and Staff: Establish a robust professional development program and competitive compensation plan for the Technology Department to ensure consistent support, retain skilled professionals, and meet growing demands in cybersecurity, instructional tech, and operational support.