Retirement hasn't stopped some of Rome City Schools' most experienced educators from helping Move the Needle. Members of the RCS Wisdom Academy returned to the table Wednesday, bringing decades of experience and plenty of ideas as they began their third year of helping advise Superintendent Dr. Eric L. Holland on the present and future of the district.
During Wednesday's meeting, Dr. Holland updated the group on recent successes across the district, including improvements in student attendance and assessment results. He also discussed the continued importance of literacy, safety and sustainability as Rome City Schools works to Move the Needle.
"There is an incredible amount of knowledge and experience in this room, and we want to continue tapping into that," Dr. Holland told the group. "You spent your careers serving students and families, and you have wisdom that can continue to make a difference for Rome City Schools. We also want you to help us bring more retired educators into this group because there are so many people in our community who have valuable experiences and perspectives to share."
The meeting also gave Wisdom Academy members an opportunity to help shape the district's future. As work continues on the Reimagine RCS 2030 plan, Dr. Holland asked the retired educators where they believe Rome City Schools should be in 2030 and what priorities should guide the district over the coming years.
"As we begin looking toward 2030, I want to hear from you," Dr. Holland said. "Where do you think Rome City Schools should be? You know our schools, you know this community, and you have spent your careers in education. That experience can help us think about where we need to go next."
Wisdom Academy members meet with Dr. Holland three times during the school year to provide feedback and share the knowledge gained throughout their careers. Dr. Holland encouraged members to help grow the program by inviting other retired educators to become involved, continuing the Academy's mission of passing their experience and wisdom to the next generation of Rome City Schools.