A committee formulated vision and beliefs statements for Natrona County School District on Monday.

The Compact Issues Committee discussed the draft documents, which are key parts in the creation of a district-wide strategic plan.

Doreen McGlade, president of the Natrona County Education Association, said the vision and beliefs, as well as the plan, should inspire the district to put aside apprehension and work together for the success of students.

A survey conducted by a consutling firm for the district indicated that employees have a high level of mistrust.

"It's like having a higher purpose," McGlade said. "It has to be something that their hearts are in."

The strategic plan is really a way of helping the district think about how it works, and how it can align itself to be more organized, said superintendent Joel Dvorak.

"It's a way of prioritizing," Dvorak said.

The committee also voted to hire an outside consultant to facilitate the development of the strategic plan. The vision and beliefs drafts are still being edited.

The vision statement, without final changes, is below.

*The Natrona County School District Team provides optimum conditions and opportunities for all learners to grow and excel academically, and to develop attitudes, skills and habits of a mind to succeed in and beyond the classroom.

*By focusing on each student, building strong relationships, providing rigorous curriculum and a safe and nurturing environment, the NCSD Team empowers every learner to become a champion.

*The NCSD Team shares a vision of education excellence, builds and appreciates partnerships with families, community-based organizations, businesses, institutions of higher education and governmental agencies, and commits to work collaboratively to realize this vision.

Reach education reporter Jasa Santos at (307) 266-0593 or at Jasa.Santos@trib.com. Read her blog at my.trib.com/jasasantos