District 214 approves strategic plan to shape the future of education
The District 214 Board of Education has approved the Future 214: Strategic Plan, a forward-thinking framework designed to guide the district from the 2025-26 to the 2029-30 school years. The plan is focused on preparing students for success in a rapidly changing world by emphasizing critical thinking, adaptability and the development of future-ready skills.
The plan was developed through an inclusive and collaborative process that engaged over 2,000 stakeholders, including students, families, educators and community members. Their input was gathered through surveys, focus groups and conversations, helping to shape the strategic priorities and ensure that the plan truly reflects the needs and aspirations of the community. The voices of students, families, and staff were integral to crafting this ambitious vision for the future of education in District 214.
Key goals of the plan include enhancing instructional quality, fostering inclusivity, maximizing resources and driving innovation across the district. The strategic plan prioritizes real-world learning experiences, mental health support and career readiness, ensuring that students are equipped to succeed in a dynamic global economy.
A critical component of this vision is the Portrait of a District 214 Graduate, which outlines the essential skills, competencies and mindsets that every student will develop before they graduate. These qualities — critical thinking, adaptability, ethical leadership, resilience and communication — will help students thrive not only in their postsecondary education but also in an ever-evolving workforce.
“We wanted to ensure that the voices of those most impacted by education — our students and their families — were included in every step of this process,” said Dr. Scott Rowe, superintendent of District 214. “Their perspectives helped inform the plan’s foundational documents, including the Portrait of a District 214 Graduate and our Long-Term Vision. These documents will guide us over the next 20 years as we aim to empower our students to own their futures, think critically and lead with purpose.”
The district’s long-term vision builds on this portrait and aims to ensure that every student leaves District 214 not only with academic knowledge but also the ability to navigate an increasingly complex world.
“We are committed to ensuring that every graduate is ready to succeed, whether they pursue higher education, enter the workforce, or follow an alternative path,” said Alva Kreutzer, President of the District 214 Board of Education. “Our plan is a blueprint for creating opportunities for all students to explore their passions, gain real-world experiences, and graduate prepared for life beyond high school.”
The Future 214: Strategic Plan is a bold step forward in ensuring that every student has access to a wide range of opportunities that will help them thrive, both academically and personally. For more information, visit d214strategicplan.org.