Spencer to roll out new district motto

Spencer school officials plan to unveil a new motto at the start of next school year.

A majority of the 1,214 people casting votes on the matter selected "Learning Today...Leading Tomorrow" as the district's new maxim.

Focus groups consisting of businesses, students, parents and school staff reviewed 19 potential district mottos this fall. Spencer school board members narrowed the list down to four on Nov. 24.

Of the 647 parents, 352 students, 174 district staff members and 41 community residents who cast votes since Christmas -- either online or via ballots distributed during parent-teacher conferences -- just shy of 50 percent cast "Learning Today...Leading Tomorrow" as the winner.

Focus group members also provided input which helped to revise and shorten the district's mission and vision statements.

"All students will develop maximum knowledge and skills to become lifelong learners and responsible citizens," is Spencer's proposed mission statement.

If approved by school board members as presented, the district's new vision statement would be: "The Spencer school district is a cornerstone of the community. Working together, the entire community provides a dynamic, child-centered education where students feel included, respected and valued.

"Students are challenged to think independently, inquire creatively and advance intellectually. Students develop the character and confidence to make a difference in a changing world."

The school board is expected to consider, and possibly adopt, the new motto and revised mission and vision statements during a March 24 meeting.

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The ballots have been counted