Baltimore, MD – Rivers & Roads Consulting recently collaborated with the Juvenile Services Education Program (JSEP) Board to facilitate a strategic planning retreat aimed at refining the Board’s mission, vision, and priorities. Led by consultant Chris Wheedleton, the session focused on enhancing governance, aligning strategic goals, and creating actionable plans to support JSEP’s mission of empowering youth in Maryland’s juvenile detention centers through high-quality education.
Chris Wheedleton, a seasoned expert in facilitating board retreats and maximizing organizational effectiveness, guided the JSEP Board through a series of discussions to identify critical areas of focus, including accreditation, stakeholder engagement, and policy alignment. “Strategic planning sessions like these are essential for fostering clarity and alignment within organizations,” said Wheedleton. “The JSEP Board’s commitment to improving educational outcomes for youth is inspiring, and this retreat laid a strong foundation for their future success.”
Key outcomes of the retreat included:
- Refined Vision and Mission – The Board reaffirmed its belief in the potential of every student and its commitment to preparing students to engage successfully with their communities through innovative, data-driven practices.
- Strategic Priorities – Short- and long-term goals were identified, including accreditation readiness, strengthening governance, and advancing staff recruitment and retention strategies.
- Enhanced Collaboration – Plans were developed to deepen engagement with parents, community members, and other stakeholders, including exploring the addition of a parent representative to the Board.
- Governance Alignment – The Board outlined steps to develop clear roles, job descriptions, and standard operating procedures for members and staff to enhance transparency and professionalism.
The retreat also featured discussions on improving board-superintendent collaboration, professionalizing board operations, and aligning with state initiatives like the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future.
Does your organization need expert facilitation to align your team and maximize effectiveness?
At Rivers & Roads Consulting, we specialize in facilitating strategic planning sessions that help organizations refine their vision, set actionable goals, and enhance governance. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your board, engage stakeholders, or develop a roadmap for success, our team has the expertise to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn how we can support your organization’s strategic needs.
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