New superintendent lays out his entry plan
Author: Tammy Lane • First Posted: Thursday, September 22, 2011
Superintendent Tom Shelton spoke at the Commerce Lexington Good Morning Bluegrass Breakfast on Sept. 22 at the Griffin Gate Marriott. (Photo: Tammy L. Lane)
Superintendent Tom Shelton, who officially joined Fayette County Public Schools on Sept. 1, unpacked his 100-day entry plan at Thursday’s Commerce Lexington Good Morning Bluegrass Breakfast.
Referring to the Greek philosopher Plato’s observation, he noted how “the start of anything is extremely important.” That’s why Shelton intends to be systematic and systemic as he becomes an integral part of FCPS and the Lexington community. For instance, by this weekend he will have visited all of the schools here in his efforts to “hit the ground learning.”
Shelton, whose background as a CPA led to an unconventional route to school leadership, reiterated that his tenure will be marked by transparency in decision-making and by collaborative relationships. He also will rely heavily on facts and figures as he familiarizes himself with the school district.
“When someone lays a spreadsheet in front of me, I actually get excited,” he told the group gathered at the Griffin Gate Marriott for the annual Golden Apple Awards, which recognize high-performance community partnerships with FCPS.
One key point in Shelton’s 12-page plan is how to listen and learn from all the stakeholders – from students and staff to taxpayers and city officials.
“This is about our future, our children, and what’s best for each and every one of them,” he said, stressing that “All students deserve an excellent and equitable education.”
Shelton also values two-way communication and welcomes feedback, and he invites everyone to answer six quick questions about their expectations at www.fcps.net/telltom.
Superintendent Tom Shelton's 100-day entry plan