The focus groups include current students, recent graduates, district employees, parents (including families with English Language Learners and Special Education students), community and business leaders, and representatives of early childhood and higher education.

“The purpose of convening the focus groups is to obtain valuable and insightful information that we might not receive in any other way,” said Steve Webb, deputy superintendent. “By bringing together groups of people with shared interests, we are promoting rich, in-depth conversations about topics that are relevant to them.”

Each focus group session begins with an overview of the district’s strategic planning process. Participants then engage in table discussions based on several key questions. Each group has a trained facilitator. Ideas generated by the small groups are reported out to everyone in the session.

Graduates - In what way were you best prepared for the challenges of high school and postsecondary success (college/university, professional/technical education, career/work, military)?

Students - How does/could your school promote a culture of acceptance for the diverse groups at your school?

Parents - How does/might Vancouver Public Schools invite parents to play an important role in their child’s education?

Employees - In what ways does/could Vancouver Public Schools support a positive working environment?