The 2013-14 academic year promises considerable change for Spokane Public Schools on a visible, tangible level, as well as on a deeper philosophical level.

This fall, we will roll out our five-year strategic plan that was developed from input collected during the past year from a wide range of stakeholders. The plan's four goals of improved student success, a strengthened learning environment, sound finances and facilities, and enhanced communication and collaboration will shape the work we do in the next five years.

During 2012-13, we did a lot of listening and learning. We visited classrooms, created focus groups, conducted online surveys, and met with many people to help determine what was working well, not so well, and what could be added or modified to improve our K-12 schools in Spokane.

During this listening and learning, we heard a consistent theme from parents, business leaders, and community partners—our students must be prepared to compete in a global economy; an economy that requires completion of post-secondary training and education.

A sharp focus on preparing students for success in 21st century careers has required us to move our finish line. No longer can success be defined as obtaining a high school diploma, although that is certainly important. Instead, we have set a bold goal that every SPS student successfully complete some form of higher post-secondary education. We are calling this focus "T-2-4" to illustrate this new finish line. Our focus will be on preparing students for successful completion of a technical program, or for earning a degree from a two- or four-year college or university.

Moving the finish line from high school graduation to completion of a post-secondary program will require strategies and innovations that develop each student's talents and skills to their full potential. To reach this new finish line, we are putting in place a number of approaches, including the following:

•Rollout of full-day kindergarten to the district's 34 elementary schools.

•Expansion of educational opportunities that support different ways of learning.

•Potential charter schools (we are the only district in the state to apply to be an authorizer).

•Additional early-intervention teachers to get students off to a good start in reading.

•Full-time counselors at every elementary school.

•Offerings at NEWTECH Skill Center geared toward 21st century careers.

•Expansion of advanced placement opportunities at the high school level.

We recognize "T-2-4" represents a bold goal—a goal we will not achieve if we act alone. We are blessed with nonprofit community partners that have made education a priority, with families who provide a place and time for homework and take pride in their students' achievements, with a community that has consistently supported bonds and levies that constitute nearly 20 percent of our operating budget, and with more than 3,000 employees who bring true concern and dedication to the students each day.

We are excited for prospects in 2013-14 and beyond. While recognizing the excellent record we have forged thus far, we clearly recognize much more needs to be done. We are eager to get working on it all. We would also like to hear any of your suggestions or comments, and urge you to contact either of us.