MSCS Strategic Priorities and Framework
This strategic plan provides a clear framework to guide Mountain Song Community School (MSCS) over the next three years. It connects our mission, vision and values to actionable goals and strategies, ensuring that our community works together to nurture the whole child through Waldorf-inspired education. The plan is intended for staff, families, board members, and community partners, offering both direction and accountability.
Our Mission
Mountain Song Community School, as a member of the Alliance for Public Waldorf Education, is a public charter school that utilizes developmentally appropriate, holistic education to nurture the body, mind, and heart of each student.
Our Vision
Our aim is to bring forth healthy, confident, free-thinking, self-directed children who are passionately engaged with their education and empowered to contribute positively to the world.
Guiding Principles
Waldorf philosophy and pedagogy
Respect for childhood and developmental stages
Community, collaboration, and inclusivity
Stewardship of resources and environment
Core Values
Whole Mind - We cultivate curious, thoughtful learners who approach the world with open minds and a passion for discovery.
Healthy Heart - We build a culture of compassion where every individual feels seen, valued, and empowered to contribute to the well-being of our community.
Hale Body - We inspire students to embrace an active and balanced lifestyle that nurtures strength, resilience, and long-term wellness.
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Goal: Strengthen educational practices that support intellectual, emotional, and physical development.
Rationale: Our mission calls us to nurture the whole child through Waldorf methods.
Strategies:
Expand and deepen curriculum aligned with Waldorf pedagogy.
Integrate nature and movement-based experiences.
Ensure an environment that prioritizes the social, emotional, and physical health for students.
Provide ongoing professional development for teachers.
Measures of Success: Student growth benchmarks, staff participation in training, parent surveys and families.
Strategic Pillars and Goals
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Goal: Foster a safe, inclusive, and connected school community.
Rationale: A positive school culture is foundational to learning and retention.
Strategies:
Train and retain well qualified Waldorf Teachers.
Maintain a safe, secure learning environment for students and staff.
Actively increase community engagement.
Measures of Success: Family survey results, reduced behavioral incidents, increased participation in community events and committees.
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Goal: Ensure strong governance, leadership capacity, and organizational alignment.
Rationale: Effective leadership supports long-term stability and success.
Strategies:
Maintain active committees and sub-committees to help guide the school.
Utilize data to inform decision making.
Increase transparency in decision-making and communication.
Measures of Success: Board evaluation outcomes, staff feedback, governance compliance (CDE/CSI Requirements).
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Goal: Strengthen financial stability and resource management.
Rationale: Responsible stewardship ensures we can sustain and grow programs.
Strategies:
Expand fundraising and grant opportunities.
Monitor budgets closely with clear reporting.
Align resources with strategic priorities.
Measures of Success: Balanced budgets, increased reserves, successful grant awards.
Implementation and Accountability
Timeline
This plan covers July 2025 through June 2028.
Responsibility
Each pillar has designated leads accountable for progress updates.
Review Process
ELT and Board will review progress regularly (quarterly).
Adjustments
The plan is a living document and will be adjusted as needed in response to new challenges and opportunities.
This plan represents our shared commitment to the mission of Mountain Song Community School. By connecting our values with clear goals, strategies, and accountability, we ensure that every member of our community contributes to nurturing the whole child—mind, heart, and body.
>>Download a PDF version of the plan here