Jan 2025 – ETAC

Brentwood USFD’s Graduation Plus+:
Pioneering Pathways to Lifelong Success

Topics: Collaborative leadership, shared power and voice; Expanded, enriched learning opportunities; Powerful student and family engagement; Rigorous, community-connected classroom instruction

The Brentwood Union Free School District (BUFSD) showcases the Community School Forward strategy through its Graduation Plus+ initiative, led by Superintendent Wanda Ortiz-Rivera. This plan integrates educational excellence with community engagement, benefiting students and advancing the community school agenda.

Graduation Plus+ aligns educators, administrators, and community stakeholders to ensure student success. A key figure in advancing this initiative is Dr. Vincent Leone, Director of Programs & Policy, who has been instrumental in promoting and shaping Graduation Plus+. By fostering strong partnerships, it promotes academic achievement, equity, and lifelong success, guided by four key pillars:

1. Success Pathways

   Graduation Plus+ empowers students with personalized learning journeys that emphasize college, career, and civic readiness. Through partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and higher education institutions, students have access to Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, work-based learning experiences, and opportunities to earn college credits and specialized diploma seals. These pathways ensure that students are well-prepared for their future endeavors, whether in higher education or the workforce.
   

2. Growth Culture

   The initiative fosters a culture of high expectations and continuous growth for all students by leveraging community resources and expertise. By cultivating critical thinking skills, intellectual curiosity, and real-world learning opportunities, Brentwood’s schools prepare students to meet the challenges of a dynamic world while enriching the broader community. This growth culture not only enhances academic performance but also promotes personal development and resilience.

3. Meaningful and Relevant Instruction and Assessment

   Graduation Plus+ takes a holistic approach to education, integrating traditional academic programs with initiatives that address the physical, emotional, academic, social, and cultural development of every student. The district collaborates with community partners to deliver learning experiences that are both impactful and relevant, ensuring students are equipped with the skills they need to thrive. This comprehensive approach supports the whole child, fostering well-rounded individuals who are ready to contribute to society.

4. Empowered Stakeholders

   At the heart of Graduation Plus+ lies the principle of stakeholder engagement. By creating a safe, healthy, and culturally responsive environment, the initiative demonstrates how schools can serve as hubs of community pride and engagement. The district works collaboratively with families, community partners, and educators to strengthen relationships that enhance opportunities for all students. This engagement ensures that the community is actively involved in the educational process, creating a supportive network for students.

A unique aspect of Graduation Plus+ is its emphasis on student voice and agency. Students are encouraged to contribute to the development and implementation of the initiative, establishing a sense of ownership and co-creation. By involving students in decision-making processes, Graduation Plus+ fosters a sense of responsibility and empowerment, allowing students to shape their educational experiences and advocate for their needs.

Board President Eileen Felix notes its role in breaking academic barriers, while Superintendent Ortiz-Rivera highlights it as a commitment to empowering students and families.

The success of Brentwood’s Graduation Plus+ initiative exemplifies how strategic planning can transform education through collaboration among schools, families, and community partners. By addressing the diverse needs of all students and fostering strong connections within the Brentwood community, this initiative ensures that every child is prepared for a productive, meaningful, and joyful life.