EDLM 6001 The Importance of Strategic Planning in Schools

 What is Strategic Planning?

 

Strategic planning is long term planning with a clear purpose, vision, mission and goals of the institution. It is defined as a set of actions taken by managers in an attempt to increase efficiency and effectiveness in staff performance.

 Vo, (2020) stated that a well written strategic plan is paramount to the growth and success of a business, which in our case are schools. He went on to say that a good strategic plan tells the manager and employees where the business is, where it is going and how it will get there. Schools are more effective in providing students with a sound education when they (the schools) are well managed (Bush and Coleman 2002).

Why is Strategic Planning important in Schools?

• It allows the school to have a unique identity and to make stakeholders aware of the core values of the institution. The plan allows students to know what exactly is being offered to them and what are the priorities of the school. 

• It guides operational decision making, budgets, employee performance plans, and it also motivates employees to work together towards clearly defined goals. Working on all of these help the manager to prepare for future opportunities and policy creation.  

•  It inspires staff and students to want to do better, to aim to fulfill the vision and mission of the school (Williams, D 2017). 

•   It fosters better communication and collaboration among staff, as persons work together, share ideas, and form critical decisions together. 

•  It helps create efficiency and saves money. When a plan is in place materials are used more efficiently, human resources are placed in areas where they are better suited and waste is avoided. 

In conclusion, strategic planning ensures that stakeholders stay on the directed path and work toward a common goal. It also ensures that management is prepared for mishaps, successes, opportunities and challenges along the way, and is equipped to furnish the needs of both teachers and students within the school environment. 

Reference:

Bush, T. & Coleman, M. (2000). Leadership and strategic management in education. (Centre for Educational Leadership and Management) London: Paul Chapman Publishing-SAGE [Chapter Three (3) Vision, Mission and Strategy pp 10-17]

Narver, D (2015, October 20) What is Strategic Planning. YouTube.

Vo, E. (2020, February 17). What Is Strategic Planning?: Strategic Planning Process. Retrieved July 30, 2020, from https://sba.thehartford.com/business-management/what-is-strategic-planning/

Williams, D (2017, July 23). Strategic Planning for Schools. YouTube.