Vision

• What do we wish to become? Where are we going?

Mission

• Why do we exist? How do we get to where we want to be?

Beliefs• What do we

value?

Vision (Where are we going?)

• What do we want to become?• What do we want to do?• What do we hope for?

Vision instills an organization with a sense of direction.  It asks, "If we are true to our purpose now, what might we become at some point in the future?“ 

“An effective vision statement articulates a vivid picture of the organization's future so compelling that a school's members will be motivated to work together to make it a reality.”   Professional Learning Communities at Work, Richard DuFour & Robert Eaker, 1998

“Good is the enemy of great.” Jim Collins2

Video clip “October Sky”As you watch, consider these questions:• What is Homer’s vision? How do you

know?• What does he do to realize his vision?• What might this tell us about our vision

and how we communicate it?

Task: • Dialogue for two minutes with an elbow

partner.• Share for three minutes with your table.

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Key Characteristics of a Vision

• Developed by leaders at all levels• Shared with, agreed to, and supported by the

community• Positive and inspiring – should reach, demand that

everyone stretch• “A vision statement is a clear description of the

components and characteristics of the system that will be needed to deliver the mission of the organization.” (SI Template)

Example: The vision of AdvancEd is to be the leader in advancing excellence in education worldwide so that every student is prepared for success in an ever-changing and diverse world.4

Vision

______________ will be a place where …

Tasks:1. Complete the following statement using ideas from your

school’s vision: “(Your School) will be a place where…”.

2. As a team, talk about the following: a. If you were true to your vision, what would such a school

look/sound/feel like? Is that true of your school?b. What does your vision say are the components and characteristics of the system that will be needed to deliver

the mission of your school?c. Is your vision what you want it to be or what it should be?

If not, how might you address these concerns?

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Mission/Purpose(How Will We Get There?)

• Why do we exist?• What do we work for every day?• How will we realize our vision?

The mission operationalizes the vision and makes it “actionable.”

The mission creates a “burning platform” that makes us want to get moving.

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Mission/Purpose

“The mission statement identifies the priorities and educational beliefs of the institution with regards to what is to be developed within the students. The mission statement provides direction for the staff and the parameters for decision-making.” (SI Template)

Example: The mission of AdvancEd is to advance excellence in education world-wide through accreditation, research, and professional services.

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Your School’s Mission

The Purpose of _____ is…

Tasks: 1. Complete the following statement using ideas

from your school’s mission: “The purpose of (our school) is …”

2. As a group, talk about the following: a. What does your mission say is the reason your

school exists? b. What does your school’s mission identify as the

priorities and educational beliefs you will develop in students?

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Aligning Vision and Mission• The vision of AdvancEd is to be the leader in

advancing excellence in education worldwide so that every student is prepared for success in an ever-changing and diverse world.

• The mission of AdvancEd is to advance excellence in education world-wide through accreditation, research, and professional services.

Questions: 1. How do this vision and mission align with each

other?2. How well does your mission help you accomplish

your vision? If it does not fit well, how might you address these concerns?9

Belief Statements/Values

Belief statements are core values or guiding principles that drive an institution’s everyday actions. They are powerful determinants of the quality of an institution. They guide the fundamental decision-making of the organization.

(Placing this in the SI Template is optional.)

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