THE BETHEL BOARD OF EDUCATION
A Message from our Superintendent,
Gary M. Chesley, Ed.D.

It is important for all of our citizens to understand what our school system strives to be for our children and the staff members who serve them. The Board of Education works tirelessly with the administration and with our teacher-leaders to mold programs that allow our students to develop the academic and social skills they will need to be competitive in the 21st Century. We believe it is imperative for our schools to strive always to improve each aspect of the academic and activities program. To that end, the Board of Education has approved the following statements that guide our decisions and our actions.

Mission Statement

The Bethel Public Schools, as a learning community devoted to the academic and social growth of our children, creates educational opportunities that inspire competence, creativity, teamwork, and a drive to excel. In an environment of trust and respect, high expectations for student performance are evident in the discussions, actions, and policies of all teachers, administrators, the Board of Education, and parents.

Mandate

Our primary purpose is to improve student achievement.

Aspiration Statement

We want a school system that our constituents and staff can be proud of and committed to, where all feel an opportunity to contribute, learn, grow, and advance based upon merit, not politics or background. We want each person to feel respected, treated fairly, listened to and involved. Above all, we want satisfaction from accomplishment and friendship, balanced personal and professional lives, and to have fun in our endeavors.

When we describe the Bethel Public Schools that we want in the future, what we are talking about is building on the foundation we have inherited: affirming the best of our traditions, closing gaps that may exist between our principles and practices, and redoubling our determination to face our challenges.

To Make Our Aspirations A Reality

We commit ourselves to Leadership. Our leaders must exemplify directness, a willingness to listen, commitment to the success of others, openness to acknowledge our own contributions to problems, personal accountability, teamwork, and trust. Leadership must model these behaviors and coach others to adopt them.

We commit ourselves to Mutual Respect. Our staff and the Board of Education must demonstrate an active respect for the different values, skills, experiences, and perspectives at work within the school and community. We must be committed to taking full advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of all people. Differing points of view will be sought; diversity must be valued and honesty rewarded.

We commit ourselves to Recognition. We must provide greater recognition for individuals and teams that contribute to our success. Recognition must be given to all who contribute: those who create, take a positive risk, or innovate and those who conscientiously support the day-to-day functioning of our schools.

We commit ourselves to Ethical Behavior. We must epitomize the standards of ethical behaviors. We must provide clarity about our expectations of each other and must enforce these standards through all of our actions and decisions.

We commit ourselves to Communication. Our Board of Education, administrators, and teachers must be clear about our goals and expectations. All students and staff must know what is expected of them and receive timely, honest feedback on their performance and aspirations.

We commit ourselves to Empowerment. We must increase the authority, responsibility, and accountability of those who lead and those who teach our children. By actively nurturing responsibility, trust, and recognition throughout the Bethel schools, we will celebrate the capabilities of all.