Dist. 41 plans to review its vision for schools

Vision is on the menu in Glen Ellyn Elementary District 41.

District officials want to gather 100 community members -- not just parents and teachers -- to help review their long-range vision plan.

All it requires is three nights of work and the ability to recognize trends.

The district last completed such an in-depth process in 2004, and that document created a strategic plan as well as a mission, values and key objectives. Superintendent Ann Riebock said this review is the first part of a lengthy process as well.

"We're bringing a group of people together … who have an investment: what do we want the future to hold for our children?" she said.

Once they establish that vision, the committee will hand its work over to a subcommittee for further break downs, eventually handing over the result to others to decide on mission statements and key objectives. The final piece is a long-range facility plan that should conclude in late 2008.

Anyone within the District 41 community is able to apply to serve on the committee. Participants must commit to three night meetings: from 6 to 9:30 p.m. May 28, June 9 and June 17 at the Lake Ellyn Boathouse. The minimum number of participants for the three-day duration is 50 people.

Riebock said the group will conduct a broad-based process, looking over research and identifying themes. What does the community see that they believe is important for District 41 children to know in the future?

The smaller group charged with taking those broad themes and crafting them into a long-range strategic plan will start its work in early summer.

To participate in the vision committee, call (630) 534-7643 or send an e-mail to Vision@d41.org.