Foote of the Future: Strategic Plan 2023

As is best practice for independent schools, every few years we embark on a comprehensive, reflective planning process, the results of which are intended to focus Foote’s energy and resources for long-term success. The results of this process have informed our development of a new Strategic Plan for the school.

The first part of this plan was an act of rediscovery: reevaluating our mission, vision, and values, which were last established in 2014. During the previous school year, the Board of Trustees and Head of School Aléwa Cooper embarked on this process, enlisting research and planning firm Ian Symmonds & Associates, alongside the Foote Strategic Planning Steering Committee. Collaboratively, they explored where we have been, where we are, and where our greatest potential lies. Their work has provided us with a roadmap for the future of Foote, along with a reinvigorated mission and core values. 

“Foote students emerge confident in their abilities, and exhibit leadership in many different ways. Once they leave here they will have the foundation to be the leaders who will help change the world,” confirmed Head of School Aléwa Cooper. “Critical thinking, collaboration, decision-making, empathy, or simply the ability to actively listen are all ways in which Foote students take initiative and offer support to others. Our vision for future Foote leaders is to build a healthy learning community where all voices are empowered, heard, and understood.”

Titled "Inspiring Leaders: The Embodiment of Excellence," Foote's Strategic Plan identifies seven priorities that will shape the future of the school and its students. The seven priorities were shared with the community in an event Feb. 2, with members of the Strategic Plan Steering Community and Head of School Aléwa Cooper.

The creation of this Strategic Plan involved commitment and thoughtful planning — we are grateful for the inexhaustible work of our steering committee, and the ongoing feedback from members of our community. We are honored to be part of your Foote family and excited for the journey ahead, throughout which we welcome your continued partnership and support. 

Learn more about the new mission, vision, and values, as well as the initiatives outlined in our Strategic Plan, here.