After several months of collaboration and community input, Kalama School District has officially launched its new Strategic Plan. The plan serves as a shared roadmap designed to ensure that each and every Kalama student is future-ready.
Superintendent Wesley Benjamin introduced the finalized plan in a video message to families and later outlined the district’s implementation strategy during the school board meeting on Monday, June 23.
To move the plan forward, district leaders have identified 83 individual projects, each tied to a specific initiative or goal within the plan. Every project has a designated manager, defined scope, and set of deliverables.
“Think of the Strategic Plan like a wall we’re building. Each project is a brick, and together, they form the foundation for a stronger future for Kalama students,” he said.
A strong foundation for student success
At the heart of the plan is a clear vision: Ensuring that each and every child is future-ready. This means preparing students not only to graduate, but to thrive in a world that demands critical thinking, adaptability, and a lifelong love of learning.
The plan outlines five student growth milestones, each designed to build a strong foundation for future success:
Kinder Ready: 75% of students entering kindergarten prepared to learn
Reading to Learn (Grades K–2): 85% reading at grade level by the end of 2nd grade
Automatic Fundamentals (Grades 3–5): 85% mastering essential academic skills by 5th grade
Critical Thinker (Grades 6–8): 85% demonstrating strong thinking skills by 8th grade
Pathway to Prosperity (Grades 9–12): 95% of high school seniors prepared for post-secondary success
To support these goals, the plan outlines targeted strategies such as expanding early learning and reading support, strengthening math instruction and intervention, introducing life skills and career exploration opportunities, and improving school climate and access to enrichment. Progress will be measured using a set of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) tied to student achievement and overall system improvement.
The plan is grounded in six shared commitments that guide every decision and action in the district:
Chinooks Show Up
Excellence Through Perseverance
Know Every Child by Name and Need
Safety and Dignity for All
Integrity in Action
Work Hard, Play Hard
These core values reflect Kalama’s belief that every student deserves a welcoming and supportive environment where they can discover their strengths and pursue their passions.
The Strategic Plan was shaped by the ideas and feedback of students, staff, families, and community members through surveys, interviews, and workshops. It represents not just the direction of the district, but the collective voice of Kalama.
"What makes Kalama special is the unwavering belief our community has in our schools," said Benjamin. "Chinooks show up for each other, and your support fuels everything we do."
As the district moves into the next phase of implementation, families and community members are encouraged to get involved by joining committees, volunteering in classrooms, or supporting students at local events.
"Together, we will turn this plan into progress and make Kalama an even stronger place to learn and grow," said Benjamin.
Explore the Strategic Plan by accessing the document found here.