EDLD 5342 District Improvement Plan Comparison

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When analyzing the similarities and differences between the District Improvement Plans of Austin I.S. D. and Sheldon I.S.D. I found the differences to be in the details. Both plans covered much of the same information yet differ in how they are arranged.   Both plans include goal sheets that delineate a specific goal and include action plans that guide the districts in meeting the goals. These action plans include: desired results, measurable evidence of change, activities, resources and timelines.  That is where the similarities in format of the plan end.

The plans both have aspects of a goal driven budget. The Sheldon I.S.D. plan lists the TAKS scores or other indicator information directly at the beginning of each individual goal with very specific budget information for that goal.  For instance, if the district is planning on decreasing discretionary special education placements the historical data is listed immediately prior to the goal. The plan then goes into detail, much like Austin I.S.D.’s plan does. Both districts list the goal and plan a budget accordingly. Both districts show an integration of funds throughout their plan. Sheldon I.S.D.’s plan is slightly more detailed when outlining the budget for each individual goal accounting for the projected budget coming from each program code. However, Austin I.S.D. does a much better job of documenting meetings and the progression of a goal throughout their plan.  Additionally, Austin I.S.D.’s plan is much more informative when it comes to describing in what function and project code money is being spent on specific projects throughout the year. It is easy to see whether money is being spent on consultants, personnel or supplies. This information can be seen in their agenda meeting documentation.

Austin I.S.D.’s plan shows continuity in planning throughout the school year. By including data from a variety of meeting and attendance records Austin I.S.D. is able to demonstrate a continuous commitment to planning and monitoring. Sheldon I.S. D. does not include the meeting minutes within their plan. However, Sheldon I.S.D. includes a variety of information regarding district programs one does not see within the Austin I.S.D. plan. Both Sheldon and Austin list grants that they receive and utilize for various programs. Sheldon I.S.D. includes the budget for all Title funds. This includes allocations to specific functions and program codes. However, this information is included at the end of the plan in a separate section which can make the information a little disconnected from the body of the plan.

One of the most interesting items contained within the Austin I.S.D. District Improvement Plan was their plan alignment outline. In the plan everything starts with their school district’s Strategic Plan then to the District Improvement Plan. After this it filters down to the campus improvement plans and on to the department and employees. This is a well-organized model of alignment and change that increases mutual commitment and expectations. It demonstrates how everyone is responsible for the implementation of the Strategic Plan. I really like this form and plan on utilizing it with our District Improvement Team.