School board invites public conversation on improvements

The Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board seek public input into the creation of a new five-year strategic plan.

“An important part of the planning involves hearing from families, students, employees and community members about how we can improve and build confidence with them,” said Kerry Donnell, Communications Manager.

“We want to hear about how we can improve HPEDSB. That’s why we’re inviting stakeholders to participate in our Thoughtexchange, an online crowdsourcing platform where people can share their ideas, then read about and rate the thoughts of others. The purpose is to seek everyone’s thoughts about what they want HPEDSB to be, how we can improve and be the public education choice in our communities.”

The board, said chair Lucille Kyle, is committed to getting better at serving students.

“Creating a new five-year strategic plan is important work for the Board of Trustees and staff. We’re looking forward to getting input from our families and communities because it will help us understand what to focus on as we plan for the future of education at HPEDSB. I invite everyone to participate.”

Using Thoughtexchange, participants can share thoughts and suggestions, building on the ideas of others at this link: http://bit.ly/howcanweimproveHPE.

“Thoughtexchange is anonymous and includes thousands of voices in the conversation, not just a handful,” added Donnell. “All thoughts and ratings are public but your identity remains private.”

A brief introductory video includes stories from students and a message from Kyle.

“As you reflect on your interactions with HPEDSB, consider this question: What are the most important things we can do as a public education system to improve and build confidence with you? Then add your thoughts.”

The input is open until Jan. 31, 2020.