Strategic Plan Implementation
Board Update
July 13, 2026
Pamela McCloud
Director of Organizational Effectiveness
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Today’s Focus
• Strategic Plan Overview
• Progress on Targets for Year 3 Goals
• Data Highlights
• Next Steps
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https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/dcsd.rde/viz/BalancedSco
recard/HomePage
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Strategic Plan
Overview
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Implementation Chart - Goal Area 1
Goal Area 1: Student Academic Success with Equity and Access Implementation Years
Performance Objectives
2024- 2025- 2026- 2027- 2028-
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
1.1: Increase proficiency rates in literacy on district and state assessments for all students. I I R R R
1.2: Increase proficiency rates in numeracy on district and state assessments for all I I R R R
students
1.3: Increase the 4- and 5-year cohort graduation rates. I I R R R
1.4: Ensure all students have equitable access to and support for academic programs and P I R R R
career pathways.
1.5: Improve student academic growth as measured by the College and Career Readiness I I R R R
Performance Index (CCRPI).
1.6: Enhance student proficiency in digital literacy skills using innovative technology. P I R R R
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Goal Area 1: Student Academic Success with Equity and Access
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objective (2026-2027)
1.1 Increase Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: End-of- • Development of the DCSD Unified Literacy plan to guide DCSD collective
proficiency rates in 2029, the ELA EOG Grade (EOG) 41% cross-divisional and cross-content work
literacy on district proficiency rate • Literacy leadership training (monthly) for elementary principals and assistant
and state will be 47%. 2027 Target: End-of- principals
• Central hiring of a QBE-funded Literacy Coach for each elementary school
assessments for Course (EOC) 40%
• Monthly literacy training and coaching for Literacy Coaches to support side-by-
all students. Smart Goal: By side modeling and coaching in the classroom
2029, the ELA EOC • Training and use of newly developed 95PCP data dashboard for tracking
proficiency rate foundational skills progression in grades K-5, using the data to identify student
will be 46%. needs and instructional implications
• Effective small group instruction for foundational literacy training for all
Kindergarten paraprofessionals
• Required adolescent literacy training for all 6-12 teachers (all content areas)
• Implementation of adolescent literacy strategies in all 6-12 classrooms with
These metrics are dependent on the release of Georgia support from Metro-RESA, Academic coaches, and professional learning
Milestones data: facilitators
• Developed guidance for novel-reading in grades 6-12
• English Language Arts – Tentative: late November 2026 • Literacy content training for all Title I funded Academic Coaches
• "Get DeKalb Reading" campaign and toolkit is being prepared cross-
As a result, the data required for these metrics will be available
this coming semester. divisionally to share with all schools
• Develop instructional modules that align to the new ELA standards with a
focus on the Science of Reading Language Comprehension skills
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Goal Area 1: Student Academic Success with Equity and Access
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objective (2026-2027)
1.2 Increase Smart Goal: 2029 - 2027 Target: End-of- •Provide ongoing professional learning that builds teacher capacity to
proficiency rates in By 2029, the Math Grade (EOG) 34.5% implement ILPs with fidelity, facilitate academic discourse, incorporate
numeracy on EOG proficiency numeracy routines (K–5), engage students in mathematical modeling, and
rate will be 40%. 2027 Target: End-of- strengthen problem-solving instruction.
district and state •Partner with school leaders, mathematics coaches, and teachers to model
assessments for all Course (EOC) 31%
effective instructional practices and support classroom implementation through
Smart Goal: By coaching cycles and collaborative planning.
students.
2029, the Math •Conduct mathematics learning walks to gather implementation evidence,
EOC proficiency celebrate effective practices, identify areas for growth, and provide timely
rate will be 37%. feedback to schools.
•Develop and curate high-quality instructional resources that support
These metrics are dependent on the release of Georgia consistent implementation of the district's mathematics instructional priorities.
Milestones data: •Analyze classroom, assessment, and implementation data to identify trends,
inform professional learning, and provide differentiated support to schools.
• Mathematics- public release will be August 6, 2026 •Facilitate professional learning communities and district collaboration that
promote the sharing of effective instructional strategies and continuous
As a result, the data required for these metrics will be available improvement across K–12 mathematics.
this coming semester. •Monitor progress toward district mathematics priorities by reviewing
implementation evidence with school and district leaders and adjusting supports
as needed.
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Goal Area 1: Student Academic Success with Equity and Access
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objective (2026-2027)
1.3 Increase the 4- Smart Goal: 2029 - 2027 Target: 4-year Graduation Cohort Protocol
By 2029, the 4-year graduation rate The 2026-2027 Graduation Cohort Protocol standard operating procedures will be updated to
and 5-year cohort
include revised cohort years. Within the SOP, the monthly cohort progress monitoring
graduation rates. graduation rate will 84.5% template and projected graduation calculator will be adjusted to reflect the new school year
be 89.1% and revised cohort years.
2027 Target: 5-year
Smart Goal: 2029 – graduation rate Monthly Cohort Graduation Meetings
Schools and Leadership staff will attend each high school's monthly cohort graduation
By 2029, the 5-year 84.5% meetings throughout the year to progress monitor implementation of the Graduation Cohort
graduation rate will Protocol standard operating procedures. All five cohorts will be reviewed and monitored
be 89.3% during the monthly meetings. The data monitored includes withdrawal code update status, on-
and off-track cohort students, attendance, failing grades, and behavior. Action plans for
struggling students will be monitored and adjusted throughout the school year.
Data Clerk Monthly Submissions
These metrics are dependent on the release of graduation rate All high school data clerks will submit monthly reports summarizing required task completion
data: and projected graduation rates.
• 4-year graduation rate- Tentative: late September 2026 Additional 2027 initiatives will include:
• 5-year graduation rate- Tentative: late November 2026 • Continue expanding Work-Based Learning participation across the district.
• Prioritize WBL opportunities for students who may benefit from additional engagement
As a result, the data required for these metrics will be available and career relevance
this coming semester. • Conduct career exploration and pathway awareness activities beginning in middle school.
• Recognize student achievement through pathway completer celebrations and credential
recognition events
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Goal Area 1: Student Academic Success with Equity and Access
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objective (2026-2027)
1.4 Ensure all Smart Goal: 2029 - 2027 Target: • Collaborate with school counselors to ensure students are enrolled
students have By 2029, the high Pathway in appropriate pathway sequences.
equitable access school pathway completion 85% • Work with school leadership teams to ensure all pathway courses
to and support for completion are offered in the appropriate sequence.
academic percentage will be • Conduct data reviews with principals, counselors, and CTAE
89%. teachers.
programs and
career pathways. • Provide families with information regarding career opportunities
connected to CTAE pathways.
These metrics are dependent on the release of statewide
accountability data which includes:
• CCRPI Readiness Component- Tentative late November
2026
As a result, the data required for these metrics will not be
available during the next semester.
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Goal Area 1: Student Academic Success with Equity and Access
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 (2026- Progress Update
Objective 2027)
1.5 Improve Smart Goal: 2029 - By 2029, ELA elementary 2027 Target: ELA elementary school
student growth 71%
• Designed a structured literacy GACE
student academic school student growth will be 75%
preparation course for Accelerate 8
growth as Smart Goal: 2029 - By 2029, ELA middle
2027 Target: ELA middle school candidates.
measured by the student growth 70% • Pre-AP – offering advanced
school student growth will be 74%
College and • Closing gaps through Tier 2 instruction
2027 Target: ELA high school
Career Readiness Smart Goal: 2029 - By 2029, ELA high school and resource guidance
student growth 64%
student growth will be 68%
Performance index
(CCRPI). 2027 Target: Math elementary
Smart Goal: 2029 - By 2029, math elementary
school student growth 69.5%
school student growth will be 75%
2027 Target: Math middle school
Smart Goal: 2029 - By 2029, math middle
student growth 67%
school student growth will be 70%
2027 Target: Math high school
Smart Goal: 2029 - By 2029, math high school
student growth 62%
student growth will be 70%
These metrics are dependent on the release of statewide accountability data which includes:
• CCRPI Progress Component- Tentative late November 2026
As a result, the data required for these metrics will not be available during the next semester.
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Goal Area 1: Student Academic Success with Equity and Access
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objective (2026-2027)
1.6 Enhance student Smart Goal: By 2029, 2027 Target: 93.0% • Expand equitable access to innovative technology experiences that
proficiency in digital 95% of all teachers Technology Integration strengthen student digital literacy through authentic, hands-on learning.
literacy skills using will complete the Performance Objective • Implement a unified districtwide technology showcase that combines Tech
innovative district-wide Completion Competition and Tech for Littles event to engage students in real-world
technology. technology technology applications and digital innovation.
integration 2027 Target: 45.5% • Increase student participation in the Digital Dreamers Hub and other digital
performance Student Digital Literacy literacy initiatives to build foundational technology skills and responsible
objectives (IGNITE U Module Completion technology use.
TICs). • Enhance student learning opportunities in artificial intelligence,
cybersecurity, digital citizenship, and emerging technologies through project-
Smart Goal: By based experiences that showcase digital literacy competencies.
2029, 90% of
students will
complete the
digital literacy
modules.
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Implementation Chart - Goal Area 2
Goal Area 2: School, Family, and Community Engagement Implementation Years
Performance Objectives 2024- 2025- 2026- 2027- 2028-
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
2.1: Strengthen family, school, and community engagement to establish clear, accessible, I I R R R
and relevant communication tailored to meet stakeholders’ preferences.
2.2: Create opportunities for collaboration between the district, families, community P I R R R
partners, and businesses to foster partnerships to support district-wide initiatives.
2.3 Improve communication processes for stakeholders to ensure the flow of clear, timely, P I R R R
and relevant information.
2.4: Establish clear communication channels to effectively engage with multilingual families I I R R R
and provide equitable access to district and school information.
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Goal Area 2: School, Family, and Community Engagement
Performance Objectives 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
(2026-2027)
2.1 Strengthen family, school, Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: • Encourage all Division social media accounts to
and community engagement 2029, social 163,440 follow one another and tag the District accounts.
to establish clear, accessible, media likes/ Social Media • FACE to encourage social media likes/subscribers
and relevant communication subscribers Likes/Subscribers at events, COMMS to share pre-made cards
tailored to meet stakeholders’ count will Count • Support all schools to have official social media
preferences. increase to accounts and encourage joint tagging
235,354. • Include all District social media handles to
calculate progress towards target
• Formalize tracking and reporting structure
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Goal Area 2: School, Family, and Community Engagement
Performance Objectives 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
(2026-2027)
2.2. Create opportunities for By 2029, the 2027 Target: 61 • Grants and Partnerships team will all join
collaboration between the community Community Partner Chambers and Boards to increase our network
district, families, community partner count Count • Launching of LEAD Academy
partners, and businesses to will increase • Establish districtwide partnership database
foster partnerships to support to 72. • Establish and expand literacy collaboratives such
district-wide initiatives as National Council for Families Learning, DeKalb
Initiative for Children and Families, Learn for Life
• Expand partnerships with local workforce boards
and career support agencies
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Goal Area 2: School, Family, and Community Engagement
Performance Objectives 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
(2026-2027)
2.4. Establish clear Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: • EL Master Plan Goal Area 3: Develop and implement effective and timely two-way
communication processes for all school and district staff, families, and other
communication 2029, scheduled 41,005 stakeholders for the benefit of all ELs.
• Provide all DCSD schools, departments, and divisions with access to Plunet and
channels to effectively and unscheduled Scheduled and Elsa for document translation and meeting interpretation requests.
engage with interpretations will Unscheduled • Disseminate the following documents for efficient communication practices:
• English Learners Department Operational/Support Contact List
multilingual families increase to 41,413. Interpretations • Internal Communication SOP
• External Communication SOP
and provide equitable • EL Master Plan Goal Area 5: Increase meaningful collaboration and support active
access to district and Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: 3,597 engagement with Primary Home Language Other than English (PHLOTE) families for
student success.
school information. 2029, translations Translations • School-level – provide schools with guidance and resources for engaging with
English learner families.
will increase by • District-level - leverage English learner families’ and communities’ knowledge
10% (3,768). and understanding of district resources, ESOL program, and other related
services through:
• International Parent Engagement Series
• Session 1: Navigating DeKalb County Schools and District with
Confidence
• Session 2: Understanding Student Support Programs: ESOL (English for
Speakers of Other Languages), Exceptional Education, and Section 504
• Session 3: Preparing Students for High School Success
• Session 4: Supporting Overage ELs in DCSD and Beyond.
• Session 5: Protecting Children Online and Family and Community
Celebration
• English Learner Family Community Engagement Events (one per semester, dates
TBD)
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Implementation Chart - Goal Area 3
Goal Area 3: Recruit, Develop, and Retain Talent Implementation Years
Performance Objectives 2024- 2025- 2026- 2027- 2028-
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
3.1: Recruit and hire a diverse and highly qualified workforce that reflects a world-class, I R R R R
innovative talent pool.
3.2: Develop high performing staff to ensure quality teaching and learning outcomes, an I R R R R
innovative workforce, and visionary leaders.
3.3: Retain highly effective staff in critical needs positions to ensure the sustainability and I R R R R
efficiency of integral district programs and services.
3.4: Develop employee pipelines for key staff positions to ensure the long-term viability of I I R R R
essential programs and services.
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Goal Area 3: Recruit, Develop, and Retain Talent
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objectives (2026-2027)
3.1. Recruit and hire a Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: 98.7% Continue efforts in the following areas:
diverse and highly 2029, the fill rate Certified Position Fill • Strengthen recruitment pipelines through strategic
qualified workforce for certified Rate partnerships and talent development programs.
• Build sustainable talent pools for certified and classified
that reflects a world- positions will be
high-need positions.
class, innovative talent at 99% by 2027 Target: 91% • Streamline hiring processes to reduce time-to-fill and
pool. September 1 Classified Position improve hiring efficiency.
Fill Rate • Expand recruitment marketing efforts and host targeted
Smart Goal: By hiring events.
2029, the fill rate • Promote internal career mobility and succession planning to
for classified fill positions from within.
positions will be • Utilize workforce data and key performance metrics to
monitor progress and drive continuous improvement.
at 93% by
• Implement employee retention strategies to maintain a
September 1 stable, qualified workforce and reduce vacancies.
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Goal Area 3: Recruit, Develop, and Retain Talent
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objectives (2026-2027)
3.2. Develop high Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: 13.7%
performing staff to ensure 2029, the TKES TKES: Exemplary In an effort to achieve the performance objectives and goals, the
quality teaching and Exemplary Score will Score Percentage Division of Human Resources will complete the following actions:
learning outcomes, an increase to 23.7%
• Collaborate with departments to identify emerging leaders.
innovative workforce, and 2027 Target: 15% • Support leadership development programs.
visionary leaders.3.1. Smart Goal: By LKES: Exemplary • Maintain succession planning data.
Recruit and hire a diverse 2029, the LKES Score Percentage • Increase participation in leadership academies and mentoring
and highly qualified Exemplary Score will opportunities.
workforce that reflects a increase to 25% 2027 Target: 15% • Provide training on effective evaluations.
world-class, innovative DKES Exemplary • Analyze evaluation trends.
talent pool. Smart Goal: By Score Percentages • Support professional learning based on evaluation outcomes.
• Recognize high-performing employees and best practices.
2029, the DKES • Establish targeted recruitment calendars.
Exemplary Score will • Increase partnerships with colleges, universities, and professional
increase to 25% organizations.
Data availability: • Attend regional and national recruitment fairs.
• Build relationships with alternative certification providers.
• TKES, LKES, and DKES employee evaluation data will be available in • Monitor applicant flow and adjust recruitment strategies based on
August 2026
hard-to-fill positions.
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Goal Area 3: Recruit, Develop, and Retain Talent
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objectives (2026-2027)
3.3. Retain highly effective Smart Goal: By 2029, the 2027 Target: 91% In an effort to achieve the performance objectives and
staff in critical needs teacher retention rate will Teacher Retention Rate goals, the Division of Human Resources will complete the
positions to ensure the increase to 97%. following actions:
sustainability and efficiency 2027 Target: 88.5%
of integral district programs Smart Goal: By 2029, the Paraprofessional
and services. paraprofessional Retention Rate • Monitor retention data by employee group, location, and
retention rate will years of service.
increase to 90%. 2027 Target: 99.5% • Identify trends contributing to employee turnover.
Smart Goal: By 2029, the
SRO Retention Rate • Develop targeted retention plans for critical shortage
SRO retention rate will areas.
2027 Target: 88% • Present quarterly retention analyses and
increase to 100%.
Nurse Retention Rate
recommendations to district leadership.
Smart Goal: By 2029, the
nurse retention rate will 2027 Target: 99.5% • Enhance onboarding and new employee support.
increase to 90%. Bus Driver Retention Rate • Coordinate employee recognition and appreciation
initiatives.
Smart Goal: By 2029, the • Conduct stay interviews and analyze employee feedback.
bus driver retention rate • Promote wellness and work-life balance initiatives.
will increase to 100%.
Data availability:
• Improve communication regarding employee resources
and opportunities.
• Teacher, paraprofessional, school resource officer, nurse, and bus driver
retention data will be available in August 2026.
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Goal Area 3: Recruit, Develop, and Retain Talent
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objectives (2026-2027)
3.4. Develop Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: 5 IGNITE Teacher Residency Program - Prepares aspiring
employee pipelines 2029, the Career Career Pathway educators through hands-on classroom experience, expert
for key staff positions Pathway Program Program Count mentorship, and a pathway to teacher certification.
to ensure the long- count will
term viability of increase to 8. Para-To-Teacher Apprenticeship Program - Provides
essential programs paraprofessionals with a supported pathway to earn
and services. teacher certification while continuing to work in the district.
ASPIRE – DCSD's grow your own teacher pathway for
students interested in becoming educators and returning to
the district to serve.
L.E.A.D. - Program which establishes a structured
leadership pipeline aligned to career progression and
district needs.
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Goal Area 3: Recruit, Develop, and Retain Talent
Implementation Chart - Goal Area 4
Goal Area 4: Culture and Climate Implementation Years
Performance Objectives 2024- 2025- 2026- 2027- 2028-
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
4.1: Ensure all schools provide a safe, orderly, and supportive learning environment for all I R R R R
students and staff.
4.2: Implement restorative practice structures in all schools and increase the number of R R R R R
schools using Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) programs each year.
4.3: Improve student attendance by creating a positive and engaging school experience. R R R R R
4.4: Ensure all schools have staff trained in de-escalation techniques and Crisis Prevention I R R R R
Intervention (CPI) strategies.
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Goal Area 4: Culture and Climate
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objectives (2026-2027)
4.1. Ensure all Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: 22,466 All Assistant Principals receive training twice a year on student
schools provide a 2029, disciplinary disciplinary discipline related to District Due Process hearings (DDPH),
safe, orderly, and incidents will be incidents Discipline Tean Meeting (DTM), students with Disabilities and Title
supportive reduced to 22,306. IX.
learning 2027 Target: 395
environment for all Smart Goal: By bullying incidents August 2025 & January 2026
students and staff. 2029, bullying • The Division of Wrap Around Services hosts the Due Process
incidents will be Lounge every Friday. One-hour sessions provide administrators
reduced to 377. with guidance on discipline procedures and offers training in
effective strategies to support students.
• Bullying Prevention and Awareness training has been provided
for over 8,000 staff members including bus drivers, bus
monitors, nurses, and social workers.
All school-based staff and students receive training on an annual
basis.
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Goal Area 4: Culture and Climate
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objectives (2026-2027)
4.2. Implement Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: 100%
Restorative Practices Implementation:
restorative 2029, restorative Restorative
• At the conclusion of the 2025–2026 school year, 91% of district schools had a minimum of
practice practices Practices two staff members trained in Restorative Practices.
structures in all implementation Implementation • During the 2026–2027 school year, the district will continue expanding Restorative Practices
training with the goal of increasing participation to more than 96% of schools.
schools and will be 100% Percentage
• Additional training opportunities will also be provided to increase the number of trained staff
increase the members within each school, strengthening districtwide implementation and sustainability.
number of schools Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: 65%
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS): Train 16 additional schools on the
using Positive 2029, GaMTSS PBIS Implementation
PBIS framework to increase districtwide implementation to meet the 55% target goal during the
Behavioral (PBIS) Percentage 2026–2027 school year. *Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) has been
Interventions and implementation changed to Georgia Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (GaMTSS) to align with the Georgia
Department of Education's Whole Child Supports initiative. Selected schools will be trained on
Supports (PBIS) will increase to
GaMTSS during the first semester and PBIS during the second semester of each school year.
programs each 75%.
year. Key Strategies
• Deliver PBIS Readiness Training for school leadership teams.
• Facilitate PBIS Days 1 and 2 training for school PBIS teams.
• Provide differentiated coaching and technical assistance based on each schools’ needs.
• Integrate this goal into the district's PBIS Training and Implementation Strategic Plan,
including a districtwide coaching and professional learning plan to ensure fidelity and
sustainability.
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Goal Area 4: Culture and Climate
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objectives (2026-2027)
4.3 Improve Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: 25.2% The Attendance Specialists made significant progress toward improving school climate and
culture by implementing targeted attendance strategies, strengthening family engagement, and
student 2029, the chronic Chronic Absenteeism collaborating with schools and community partners to reduce chronic absenteeism. Key efforts
attendance by absenteeism rate Rate included:
creating a positive will be reduced to
• Conducted targeted interventions for chronically absent and at-risk students.
and engaging 24.5% • Facilitated School Attendance Team (SAT) meetings to review data and plan supports
school • Led Parent Attendance Round-Ups and attendance conferences.
experience. • Collaborated with school staff and community partners to address attendance barriers.
• Increased family engagement through attendance outreach and education.
• Supported implementation of EveryDay Labs attendance messaging and interventions.
• Monitored attendance data to identify trends and students needing support.
• Conducted school visits to provide attendance coaching and technical assistance.
• Connected families to transportation, basic needs, and community resources.
• Supported district attendance campaigns, contests, and incentive programs.
• Provided training on attendance protocols and intervention strategies.
• Partnered with Juvenile Court, the Solicitor General's Office, and community agencies.
This metric is dependent on the release of chronic • Assisted with implementation of the district attendance framework.
absenteeism from the Governor's Office of Education and • Monitored progress and accountability measures to reduce chronic absenteeism.
Workforce Strategy (formerly Governor's Office of Student • Promoted a positive school climate by recognizing and celebrating attendance
Achievement). improvements.
• Collaborated with Schools and Leadership and the Division of Information and
• Chronic Absenteeism- Tentative December 2026 Instructional Technology (DIIT) to gather stakeholder feedback, assess feasibility, review
attendance processes, identify system improvements, and refine attendance procedures
to strengthen and align attendance practices across schools.
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Goal Area 4: Culture and Climate
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objectives (2026-2027)
4.4. Ensure all Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: 99%
schools have staff 2029, the de- De-escalation and • At the conclusion of the 2025–2026 school year, 100% of district
trained in de- escalation and Crisis Prevention schools had a minimum of two staff members trained in Verbal De-
escalation crisis prevention Intervention (CPI) escalation.
techniques and intervention Training Percentage • At the conclusion of the 2025–2026 school year, 100% of district
Crisis Prevention training schools had a minimum of three staff members trained in Crisis
Intervention (CPI) percentage will Prevention Intervention (CPI).
strategies. be 100%. • During FY27, districtwide training opportunities will continue to expand
staff capacity and increase the number of personnel trained in Verbal
De-escalation and CPI, strengthening schoolwide behavioral
intervention and crisis response practices.
• As of June 2026, the FY27 training target has already been
exceeded, with additional staff trained beyond the established goal,
demonstrating continued progress in building districtwide capacity to
support safe, positive, and effective learning environments.
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Implementation Chart - Goal Area 5
Goal Area 5: Mental Health and Wellness Implementation Years
Performance Objectives 2024- 2025- 2026- 2027- 2028-
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
5.1: Create safe and supportive environments that promote positive mental health and I I R R R
wellness.
5.2: Increase awareness of factors that can impact mental health to foster well-managed P I R R R
learning environments.
5.3: Increase mental health support staff to improve classroom behavior and peer I I R R R
relationships
5.4: Expand staff participation in mental health professional learning opportunities. I I R R R
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Goal Area 5: Mental Health and Wellness
Performance Targets for Year 3
2029 Goals Progress Update
Objectives (2026-2027)
5.1 Create Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: 12 • Open and operationalize four (4) new Student SAFE Centers by the end of the 2026–2027 school year, increasing the
district total to 12 operational SAFE Centers, contingent upon district funding approval and allocation.
safe and 2029, the Student Safe • Create 4 new positions for SAFE Centers
• Complete the ribbon cuttings and full implementation of the Lithonia High School and Stephenson High School SAFE
supportive number of Center Count Centers during Fall 2026 to increase stakeholder awareness, community engagement, and student utilization.
environments student safe • Conduct quarterly monitoring visits to each SAFE Center to assess fidelity of implementation, identify strengths and
barriers, and provide individualized coaching and technical assistance to SAFE Center Liaisons.
that promote centers will 2027 Target: 13 • Develop and maintain a district SAFE Center Performance Dashboard to monitor key performance indicators, including:
positive mental increase to 20. Staff Safe Space Student SAFE Center utilization, mental health referrals, preventative interventions and support services, community partner
engagement, student and family participation, monthly reporting compliance, expansion of district and community
health and Count partnerships, and basic needs support (food, clothing, hygiene, etc.).
• Expand district and community partnerships to increase student and family access to: mental health services, medical
wellness. Smart Goal: By services, mentoring programs, food and basic needs resources, family support services, and addition Wrap Around support.
2029, the • Provide ongoing professional learning for SAFE Center Liaisons and school staff on trauma-informed practices, Social-
Emotional Learning (SEL), restorative practices, Connections Matter, youth mental health, and community resource
number of coordination.
staff safe • Expand student leadership through the SAFE Center Ambassador Program, empowering students to provide peer support,
promote wellness initiatives, reduce stigma surrounding mental health, and increase awareness of SAFE Center services.
spaces will • Implement annual student and staff needs assessments and utilize the findings to inform programming, resource allocation,
partnership development, and continuous improvement efforts.
increase to 15. • Increase stakeholder awareness through district-wide communication campaigns, school presentations, family engagement
events, social media, newsletters, and community outreach highlighting SAFE Center services and available supports.
• Review monthly SAFE Center data reports to monitor progress toward strategic goals, identify trends, evaluate outcomes,
and implement targeted improvement plans for centers requiring additional support.
• Collaborate with school administrators and district departments to ensure SAFE Center initiatives are aligned with the District
Strategic Plan, Goal Area 5: Mental Health and Wellness, while promoting consistency and sustainability across all school
sites.
• Utilize data from needs assessments, utilization reports, and outcome measures to evaluate program effectiveness and
inform annual planning, resource distribution, and future SAFE Center expansion.
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Goal Area 5: Mental Health and Wellness
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year Progress Update
Objectives 3 (2026-2027)
5.2. Increase awareness Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: Regarding Performance Objectives: T.H.R.I.V.E. Wellness
of factors that can 2029, the 10,019 will:
impact mental health to mental health Mental Health • Expand mental health training to a minimum of 2 schools
foster well-managed awareness Awareness per area
learning environments. training Training • Expand mental health training to a minimum 4 support
participant Participant Count staff departments
*Release for count will be • Training title has changed from Mental Health First Aid
Participation Count 11,057. (Adults) to Mental Wellness: Recognize, Respond, &
will be in August 2026 Refer
• Expanded mental health staff by two Social Work Liaisons
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Goal Area 5: Mental Health and Wellness
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objectives (2026-2027)
5.3. Increase mental Smart Goal: By 2029, 2027 Target: 15 To ensure progress toward meeting 2027 targets in alignment with
the Office of Employee Assistance Program (EAP)’s Performance
health support staff to the number of mental Mental Health Objective, the Onsite EAP Specialist will:
improve classroom health support staff Support Staff Count
behavior and peer will increase to 23. • Continue to Promote Early, Skills-Based Emotional Support to
relationships Staff by offering a consistent menu of emotional wellness
sessions that: Normalize early help-seeking through confidential
counseling and brief interventions, preventive support, and by
equipping staff with practical coping tools prior to issues
escalating to burnout or leave.
• Launch a District-Wide Wellness Collaborative of Support
Staff aimed towards creating a unified approach to district
wellness and mental health programming, that expands staff
engagement and participation in preventive wellness programs
which cultivate awareness, resilience, and self-care amongst
staff, while developing consistent strategies that ultimately
address both employee and student well-being.
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Goal Area 5: Mental Health and Wellness
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objectives (2026-2027)
5.4. Expand staff Smart Goal: By 2029, 2027 Target: 80
participation in 152 staff will be Mental First Aid *T.H.R.I.V.E. Wellness will:
mental health trained in Mental for Adults - • Provide mental health training to a minimum of 2
professional learning Wellness: Training Participa schools per area
opportunities Recognize, Respond, nt Count • Provide mental health training to a minimum of 4
and Refer support staff departments
(1 per school and 1 • Offer Frontline training class Mental Wellness:
per division) Recognize, Respond, & Refer
• Request Area Superintendents to support each
*Release for principal to dedicate 1 Wellness Ambassador to
Participation Count support efforts & share wellness information
will be in August
2026
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Goal Area 5: Mental Health and Wellness
Implementation Chart - Goal Area 6
Goal Area 6: Organizational Excellence Implementation Years
Performance Objectives 2024- 2025- 2026- 2027- 2028-
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029
6.1: Provide clean, safe, and efficient school facilities for all students P I R R R
6.2: Deliver safe and efficient transportation services to all students. R R R R R
6.3: Deliver efficient school nutrition services and healthy meals to all students R R R R R
6.4: Improve and maintain a secure, accessible, and equitable digital learning environment P I R R R
for all students.
6.5: Ensure excellent financial management of district resources. P I R R R
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Goal Area 6: Organizational Excellence
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objectives (2026-2027)
6.1 Provide clean, Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: 100% • All schools will be assessed at least 1 time this school year (Annual
safe, and efficient 2029, each School Facility Facility Assessment Rating)
school facilities for school will have Assessment Rating • Operations/Capital Improvements has implemented a new electronic
all students. a minimum of 2 (1 per school) invoice processing program (Kahua) to improve the payment process.
school facility • Implement a focus group to track progress on a quarterly basis from
assessment 2027 Target: 92% invoice arrival to payment issuance
ratings per year. Construction
Overhead/
2029 Target: Administrative Costs
Construction
Overhead/Admini 2027 Target: 15
strative Cost (Net Work Order
30 days) will Completion Rate
increase to 95%. (Days)
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Goal Area 6: Organizational Excellence
Performance Targets for Year
2029 Goals Progress Update
Objectives 3 (2026-2027)
6.2. Deliver safe Smart Goal: 2027 Target: I. Strengthen Data-Driven Route Optimization and Monitoring
and efficient By 2029, all 94.3% a. Monthly on-time performance reviews; Quarterly route reviews
transportation routes will On-Time Bus b. Expand use of GPS tracking and real-time analytics
services to all average 95% Arrival Expected Outcome: Sustain system-wide efficiency gains while minimizing delays caused by route
students. for on time Percentage design or environmental factors
performance. II. Maintain and Expand Safety-Focused Operational Practices
a. Continue biannual emergency evacuation drills for all bus-riding students
b. Require annual driver certification and training
c. Conduct routine safety audits and ride-along to ensure adherence to district procedures
Expected Outcome: Sustained high safety compliance while maintaining efficient service delivery
III. Optimize Service Delivery Through Strategic Program Adjustments
a. Continue evaluation of specialized transportation programs (e.g., McKinney-Vento
supports, alternative transportation models) to ensure efficient and equitable service
b. Monitor and adjust service levels based on ridership trends and utilization data
c. Collaborate with district leadership on school scheduling, program expansion, and facility
changes to proactively plan transportation needs
Expected Outcome: Efficient allocation of resources aligned to student need and district priorities
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Goal Area 6: Organizational Excellence
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objectives (2026-2027)
6.3. Deliver Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: 2027 initiatives will include:
efficient school 2029, the 68.5% • ABC's of Breakfast
nutrition school lunch School Lunch • Districtwide taste tests and implementation of culturally diverse
services and participation Participation Rate meals.
healthy meals rate will • Launching the implementation of USDA fresh fruits and
to all students. increase to vegetables grant
69.6%. • Rebranding the free-and-reduced meal application to federal
eligibility application (FEA)
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Goal Area 6: Organizational Excellence
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objectives (2026-2027)
6.4. Improve and Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: 98% Implement an AT&T code managed fiber network to provide
maintain a 2029, the critical Critical a reliable back-up connection that works alongside the
secure, technology Technology district's existing fiber network helping keep schools
accessible, and infrastructure Infrastructure connected if an outage occurs.
equitable digital uptime Uptime
learning percentage will Percentage Reduce reliance on central network locations (Headend by
environment for increase to 100%. eliminating single points of failure, minimizing the risk that one
all students. 2027 Target: 100% issue could disrupt internet and network services for multiple
Smart Goal: By Staff and Student schools.
2029, the student Device Count
and staff 1:1 Improve the security and reliability of critical network
device count will infrastructure by restricting access to wiring closets and
remain at 100%. adding back-up power at key district network locations.
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Goal Area 6: Organizational Excellence
Performance 2029 Goals Targets for Year 3 Progress Update
Objectives (2026-2027)
6.5. Ensure Smart Goal: By 2027 Target: Low 2027 initiatives will include:
excellent financial 2029, the Low-Risk Audit • Low Risk Audit Designation – Though the district received a single finding
management of DCSD will earn Designation during the FY2025 audit cycle, we were labeled as "high risk" by the
district resources. a low-risk audit Georgia Department of Audits. This finding stemmed from minor school
designation. 2027 Target: 15.0% food salary and benefits discrepancies. To address the finding, the
Undesignated Fund district adopted a corrective action plan outlining efforts to address the
Smart Goal: By Balance Reserve core issue. Prior to the close of FY26 – Human Resources will review all
2029, the Percentage base pay for school food employees, Payroll/Accounting/SFN will review
undesignated any additional compensation paid during the fiscal year. Any issues
fund balance noted will be reclassified to the general fund.
reserve will be • 15% fund balance reserve – though careful planning, budgeting and
15%. monitoring efforts from the division of Finance, the district has continued
to maintain an undesignated fund balance that exceeds 15%
throughout FY26. Similar strategies were used in the adoption of the
FY27 budget and at no time do we anticipate the fund balance to drop
below 15%.
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Next Steps
● Update data and goals for 2026-27 as additional data is
released for selected performance objectives.
● Refine strategies and adjust as needed.
● Goal Area Sponsors attend Strategic Plan Accountability
Framework Workshop meetings monthly to share progress
on implementation.
● Progress towards Year 3 goals will be shared with the board
and community at the January 2027 board meeting.
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