mission statement on education

Assessing Your School’s Mission and Vision

When a school’s mission and vision statements are not aligned with daily instructional practices, figuring out why should be a priority.

Your content has been saved!

It’s no secret that when a principal takes a long look at the myriad of things and tasks to check off daily, weekly, and monthly, there are competing priorities that vie for their attention. In my experience as a school leader and mentor, one task that often gets overlooked is thoroughly examining the school’s mission and vision statements. In my mentoring, I often listen to what frustrates leaders, and one of the first questions I ask is about the school’s mission and vision. How many words on this document truly reflect the students’ lived experiences, and how many practices are the actual products that educators deliver to students?

Many administrators don’t put a lot of stock or thought into the mission; in some cases, they inherited these documents and never sought to review them.

Missions and visions should not be a collection of the most relevant educational terms of the day; if those words are not actualized through the pointed and intentional actions of the staff and monitored for impact by the school leader, then the words on those documents are no more valuable than “smart graffiti” on the walls of your school. Nice to look at, but ultimately insignificant to the operations and culture of the school.

Smart graffiti embodies what usually serves as a land mine for school leaders. The term reflects a lack of clarity for staff. Someone said that you should do these things and have them, so you do without knowing the “why” behind them.

When new school leaders start work, often what is already “in place” does not seem as urgent as what needs to be done. I once was in the chair responsible for changing around a place where “teaching and learning” was the edict, but in actuality, it was not the priority.

When my year-one principal coach suggested I work on mission and vision first, I was thinking about the behavior, the instruction, and the parents. However, my coach was exactly right; the mission is what should be upheld in a productive learning organization. That is where I, as a mentor, begin all of my work with new principals. Without a coherent and understood direction via the mission, there will be misdirection at best and at worst, chaos.

5 Steps to Improve Smart Graffiti Mission Statements

1. Conduct a thorough audit of the action words: The creators often have well-meaning lofty goals in crafting a mission and pack on the most ambitious educational jargon. In the reality of day-to-day instruction, there may not be any evidence that these goals or practices are happening.

A leader and their team of teachers and students can sift through each line and identify the highest-leverage practices and objectives in their documents. From this, a list of “look-fors” should allow a team to examine the school’s practices to determine what transpires daily for teachers and students.

2. Set up a diverse team of stakeholders: Have the team conduct a no-nonsense analysis of whether what the mission said it would do for students is true. This approach is needed because often, as educators, we rely upon context to blanket and shield our ego and passion from the stark reality that things are not what we said they were. In my practice, I often lead with a yes-or-no approach to what I see. The data collected from a walk-through will provide an honest look at the experiences of students and teachers formed via instruction and practices in the building.

3. Destroy and rebuild: As your team sits down to sift through the data collected, if the words in the document do not match the experiences, decide which areas are worth strengthening, adjusting, or removing as a team. Examining and adjusting is another important step because honesty will strengthen the relationship between the leadership, staff, and students if they are included in this process. The results should be shared with the entire school community.

4. Get everyone involved in finding solutions: This share-out time is a major opportunity for collective action and shared responsibility where honesty about what transpires can galvanize or fracture relations with your staff.

Galvanization can transpire if the school community reflects honestly on your operations and how they adhere to the words in the mission and vision. Conversely, fracture can occur if blame is levied solely on the teaching staff as to “why” the words do not match the lived experience. It will need skill and a leader to be the person who takes responsibility for not helping to adequately set the conditions for learning.

5. Set the conditions for change: By this stage, you have shared, pinpointed, and strategized. Now, you have to support the creation of a new doctrine for how students learn best under your leadership through being laser-focused on clarity, expectations, and, most important, how the capacity of every stakeholder will be built to bring these new expectations to life. Nothing amazing happens in a school by accident; leaders must develop and support these expectations. Simply placing some smart graffiti on the walls that tells teachers what they should be doing in service of children and walking away is not leadership; it’s a recipe for confusion.

I ask principals all the time, who is your ideal student? If students go through their full life cycle in your ideal learning environment, who would they be as learners and citizens? What would they be able to produce? What would they be prepared to do upon graduation and afterward? That is your vision; the mission is how they will arrive there. For you as a newer principal, it’s imperative that before you start to “fix” what you believe is holding your school back, you ensure that what the school says is its mission is, in fact, what it produces.

Search for articles

Crafting an effective mission statement for schools: a comprehensive guide.

In today's competitive educational landscape, having a clear and effective mission statement for schools is essential. A well-crafted mission statement not only defines the purpose and objectives of a school but also serves as a guiding light for its students, staff, and community. This comprehensive guide will take you through the process of crafting effective mission statements for schools, providing you with the tools, resources, and inspiring examples you need to create a mission statement that truly resonates.

Defining the Purpose: School Mission Statement Objectives

Before diving into the process of crafting a mission statement, it's crucial to understand the key objectives that should be included in a school's mission statement. These objectives will serve as the foundation upon which you build a compelling and meaningful statement.

A school's mission statement is more than just a few words on a page. It is a powerful declaration of the school's purpose, values, and goals. It is a guiding light that shapes the institution's identity and influences every aspect of its operations.

Key Objectives to Include in Your School Mission Statement

When developing a mission statement, it's important to consider the unique qualities and goals of your school. Key objectives that should be included in a school mission statement may vary, but some common themes include:

Providing a quality education that prepares students for the future: A school's primary objective is to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies they need to succeed in their academic and professional lives. This objective emphasizes the importance of a rigorous curriculum, qualified teachers, and innovative teaching methods.
Fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment: A school should strive to create a nurturing and supportive environment where every student feels valued, respected, and safe. This objective highlights the importance of promoting diversity, inclusivity, and equality among students and staff.
Cultivating academic excellence and critical thinking skills: A school should aim to foster a culture of academic excellence, encouraging students to strive for their personal best. This objective emphasizes the importance of challenging students intellectually, promoting curiosity, and developing critical thinking skills.
Promoting social and emotional development: Education is not just about academics; it is also about nurturing the holistic development of students. This objective underscores the importance of supporting students' social and emotional well-being, fostering empathy, resilience, and self-awareness.
Emphasizing the importance of community and civic engagement: A school should instill in its students a sense of responsibility towards their community and society. This objective highlights the importance of encouraging students to actively participate in community service, volunteerism, and civic engagement.

By incorporating these key objectives into your effective mission statement, you can create a clear and focused message that reflects the values and aspirations of your school. A well-crafted mission statement will not only inspire and guide the school community but also attract like-minded individuals who share the same educational vision.

Crafting an Effective School Mission Statement

Now that you understand the purpose and objectives of an effective mission statement for schools, it's time to dive into the process of crafting one. Crafting an effective mission statement requires thoughtful consideration and a deep understanding of your school's identity and values.

When it comes to crafting a compelling mission statement, there are several steps you can follow to ensure that it captures the essence of your school. Let's take a closer look at each step:

Step 1: Define your school's unique qualities and strengths

Every school has its own unique qualities and strengths that set it apart from others. Take the time to identify what makes your school special. Is it a strong focus on STEM education ? A commitment to fostering creativity and innovation? By understanding and articulating these qualities, you can start to shape your mission statement.

Step 2: Identify your school's core values and beliefs

Core values and beliefs are the guiding principles that drive your school's actions and decisions. Reflect on what your school stands for and what it believes in. Is it a dedication to inclusivity and diversity? A commitment to academic excellence? These core values and beliefs should be at the heart of your mission statement.

Step 3: Consider the needs and aspirations of your students, staff, and community

A mission statement should not only reflect the values and qualities of your school but also address the needs and aspirations of those it serves. Consider the desires and goals of your students, staff, and community members. What do they hope to achieve through their association with your school? Incorporating these aspirations into your mission statement will make it more meaningful and relevant.

Step 4: Articulate your school's vision for the future

A mission statement should not only capture the present state of your school but also provide a glimpse into its future. Think about where you envision your school heading in the years to come. What are your aspirations and goals for growth and improvement? By articulating your school's vision, you can inspire others and create a sense of purpose.

Step 5: Draft a mission statement that incorporates your findings

With a clear understanding of your school's unique qualities, core values, community needs, and future vision, it's time to put pen to paper. Start drafting your mission statement, ensuring that it incorporates all the elements you have identified. Be concise, yet comprehensive, in your wording.

Step 6: Solicit feedback from stakeholders and make revisions as necessary

Once you have a draft of your mission statement, it's important to gather feedback from various stakeholders. This includes students, parents, teachers, and community members. Their input will provide valuable insights and perspectives that can help refine your mission statement. Be open to suggestions and willing to make revisions as necessary.

Step 7: Finalize your mission statement and communicate it effectively

After incorporating feedback and making revisions, it's time to finalize your mission statement. Ensure that it accurately reflects your school's identity, values, and aspirations. Once finalized, communicate it effectively to all stakeholders. This includes prominently displaying it on your school's website , sharing it in newsletters, and discussing it during parent and community meetings.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure that your mission statement accurately reflects the unique qualities and goals of your school. Remember, a well-crafted mission statement can serve as a guiding light, inspiring and uniting all members of your school community towards a common purpose.

Unlocking Creativity: Mission Statement Generators and Templates

Crafting a mission statement from scratch can be a daunting task. Fortunately, there are resources available to help spark your creativity and streamline the process. Mission statement generators and templates can provide you with a starting point and help you structure your thoughts.

Tools and Resources to Help You Create a Unique Mission Statement

When searching for mission statement generators and templates, consider the following resources:

Online Mission Statement Generators: These tools provide a guided approach to crafting a mission statement tailored to your school's specific needs.
Sample Mission Statements: Studying examples of well-crafted mission statements can help inspire and inform your own statement.
Mission Statement Templates: Templates offer a framework that can be customized to fit your school's unique characteristics.

By leveraging these tools and resources, you can unlock your creativity and create a mission statement that truly reflects the essence of your school.

Inspiring Examples: Mission Statements for Elementary Schools

Mission statements for elementary schools should reflect the unique needs and educational approach of young students. Here are 10 engaging mission statements for elementary education that can serve as inspiration:

Example 1: "Our mission is to inspire a lifelong love of learning and nurture each child's natural curiosity."
Example 2: "We are committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally."
Example 3: "Our school community values respect, kindness, and a growth mindset, empowering students to reach their full potential."
Example 4: "We believe in fostering creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration to prepare our students for success in an ever-changing world."
Example 5: "Our mission is to ignite a passion for learning, cultivate a strong foundation of knowledge, and foster a sense of responsibility in our students."
Example 6: "We are dedicated to providing a well-rounded education that embraces the whole child, fostering their intellectual, emotional, and physical growth."
Example 7: "Our school community celebrates diversity, promotes empathy, and empowers students to make a positive impact on the world."
Example 8: "We strive to instill a love of learning, a sense of resilience, and a commitment to excellence in each and every student."
Example 9: "Our mission is to cultivate a nurturing and joyful learning environment where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired."
Example 10: "We are dedicated to equipping our students with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to become compassionate global citizens."

These inspiring mission statements can serve as a starting point for crafting a compelling statement that captures the essence of your elementary school.

Guiding the Transition: Mission Statements for Middle Schools

Middle school is a critical time of transition for students, and a well-crafted mission statement can help guide their educational journey. Here are examples of mission statements that capture the middle school experience:

Example 1: "Our mission is to provide a supportive and challenging learning environment that empowers middle school students to excel academically and personally."
Example 2: "We are committed to fostering a sense of belonging, promoting self-discovery, and preparing students for success in high school and beyond."
Example 3: "Our school community values curiosity, collaboration, and resilience, empowering middle school students to become lifelong learners."
Example 4: "We believe in nurturing the unique talents and abilities of each student, promoting self-confidence and a love of learning."

These mission statements can serve as a guide when crafting your own statement for a middle school, incorporating the unique challenges and opportunities that this transitional stage presents.

Shaping the Future: Mission Statements for High Schools

High school is a formative period in a student's life, where they prepare for higher education and future careers. Here are examples of inspiring mission statements that reflect the goals of high school education:

Example 1: "Our mission is to ignite a passion for lifelong learning, empower students to think critically, and prepare them for a successful future."
Example 2: "We are dedicated to fostering a love of knowledge, promoting academic excellence, and cultivating leadership skills in our high school students."
Example 3: "Our school community values integrity, diversity, and personal growth, equipping students with the skills and values they need to thrive in the 21st century."
Example 4: "We believe in providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing world."

These mission statements reflect the goals and aspirations of a high school education, emphasizing the importance of academic excellence, personal growth, and preparing students for future success.

Crafting a compelling mission statement is a powerful way to communicate the values and goals of your school. By defining the purpose, understanding the key objectives, and following a step-by-step guide, you can create a mission statement that inspires and guides your entire school community. Unlock your creativity by using mission statement generators and templates, and find inspiration in the examples provided for elementary, middle, and high schools. Implementing a well-crafted mission statement can have a profound impact on your school's culture and ensure a bright future for your students.

Accelerated BSN
Doctor of Education
Doctorate of Business Administration
Accreditation and Rankings
Student Testimonials
Faculty Profiles
Ed.D. Dissertation
Ed.D. Faculty Mentors
Nursing Clinical Placement Services
Student Services and Support
Program Offerings by State
Tuition and Financial Aid
Marymount in the News
Message from the President
Get My Guide

How to Write School Mission and Vision Statements

A teacher working with their student in a 3D printing lab

Cultivating a sense of shared educational values, goals, and ideals for a school is one of the primary ways that leaders can inspire positive outcomes in their institutions. In fact, research shows that a positive school culture—defined as the collective values and beliefs of a school’s staff—can:

Increase attendance rates and academic achievement
Elevate school morale significantly
Improve staff wellbeing
Reduce aggressive behavior in students
Lessen teacher turnover

One way that educational leaders can establish and encourage a positive culture that benefits everyone on campus is by creating well-written school mission and vision statements. Such statements set the tone for staff and students alike, making the purpose of the school clear and inspiring everyone to join together in realizing it. Learning how to write school mission and vision statements is an important step for educators who want to lead their institutions to succeed.

Request My Free Ed.D. Online Program Guide

Why School Mission and Vision Statements Matter

Mission and vision statements help to set the course for a school. These statements communicate core educational values, speak to the culture of the institution, and provide faculty, staff, students, and community members with ideals to reach for in participation with the school.

In addition to communicating what is important to a school, mission and vision statements can also be useful for creating unity on campus. A clear mission and vision statement communicate to everyone involved at the school what they are collectively aspiring to attain. When individuals share a purpose, they may be more likely to trust one another, engage in collaboration, and have a positive experience in the school setting.

When it comes to teachers, in particular, mission and vision statements can be effective in a few ways. First, being aligned on a mission and vision can help prospective candidates and hirers determine if a teacher is a good fit for the school. Additionally, teachers—who are often overwhelmed and overworked—can look to their school’s mission or vision statement for guidance in prioritizing their tasks and setting their focus when many things call for their attention at once. Finally, teachers can benefit from strong school mission and vision statements when it comes to their relationships with fellow teachers as well as with students, as the common language and purpose of the statements provide common ground for those relationships.

Students may experience several key benefits of school mission and vision statements, too. The Values Education Good Practice Schools Project found that well-written vision statements can improve student-teacher relationships. The project also discovered that students in schools with good vision statements that truly impacted the day-to-day culture of the school enjoyed more calm and focused class activities. Lastly, students were more empowered to develop self-regulation and self-management skills in schools with strong vision statements.

What Are the Differences between Mission and Vision?

While school mission and vision statements have some overlap, there are a few key distinctions between the two.

The primary difference between a mission statement and a vision statement is that a mission statement describes the school’s current and/or founding identity and the key values that characterize the school as it is in the present. A vision statement, on the other hand, looks forward to the future. Oftentimes, a mission statement will begin with a phrase like “[School name] is…” while a vision statement might begin with “[School name] will be known for…”

In other words, a mission statement is largely a definition of the school, answering questions like:

What is important to this school?
How does this school seek to reach its objectives?
What are the fundamental traits, cultural influences, or beliefs of this school?

A vision statement, on the other hand, answers questions such ask:

What does this school aspire to accomplish in the years to come?
What does the school want to become known for doing?
How would this school define future success?

While school mission and vision statements will likely arise from the same core values, they serve two different purposes. The mission statement speaks to the school’s operations in the present. The vision statement speaks to the school’s hopes and intentions for the future.

Who Should Be Involved in Writing and Approving School Mission and Vision Statements? What Is the Process Like?

Experts agree that gathering insight from a diverse population can help create the best school mission and vision statements. By including various groups of people connected to the school—including teachers, students, administration, parents, and community members—education leaders can ensure that they are gathering as comprehensive of a perspective as possible. While it’s important to hear from a variety of people, education leaders should take care not to grow the group too large, as it could become difficult to find consensus or be productive.

Once a group has been established, discussion can begin. Educational values are a good place to start. Through data, anecdotes, and personal perspectives, group members can share their perceptions of the school’s current values or the values that should be prioritized. Identifying strengths and opportunities for growth can be insightful as well.

From there, the group members can discuss what their hopes are for the future of the school. What outcomes might the school’s educational values help produce? What does the school want to be known for in 5, 10, or 20 years? What are the school’s current priorities, and how might they be reordered for greater success?

Once a group has gathered, identified the school’s values, and discussed hopes for the future, then it is time to write the first draft.

How to Write a Mission Statement

At this point in the process, it is likely that there could be several pages of notes filled with ideas, values, and hopes for the future that the group has produced. This is exactly what is needed in order to write a mission statement, but condensing the content into a succinct sentence or paragraph may feel daunting.

Reading the mission statements of other schools and organizations may be helpful at this stage. Consider, for example, the Marymount University mission statement:

Marymount is a comprehensive Catholic university, guided by the traditions of the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, that emphasizes intellectual curiosity, service to others, and a global perspective. A Marymount education is grounded in the liberal arts, promotes career preparation, and provides opportunities for personal and professional growth. A student‐centered learning community that values diversity and focuses on the education of the whole person, Marymount guides the intellectual, ethical, and spiritual development of each individual.

Notice that this mission statement fulfills several key objectives:

Communicates a value system (Catholic)
Sets priorities (intellectual curiosity, service, global perspective)
Establishes an educational framework (liberal arts)
Describes the community (student-centered, diverse, holistic)

At the elementary school level, a mission statement may read something like:

Our school fosters a love of lifelong learning by guiding each student to build foundational academic skills that will contribute to their ongoing success and by encouraging creative collaboration in an inclusive environment.

This statement makes clear that the school values the love of learning, basic skill development, and cultivating a positive community.

How to Write a Vision Statement

School vision statements should align with the values communicated in school mission statements, but they need to communicate forward thinking as well. The Marymount University vision statement reads:

Marymount, a leading Catholic university, will be nationally recognized for innovation and commitment to student success, alumni achievement, and faculty and staff excellence.

This statement:

Succinctly describes the school (a leading Catholic university)
Sets the scope for success (national)
Establishes goals to attain (recognition in student success, alumni achievement, faculty and staff excellence)

A high school vision statement may read something like:

Our school will develop critical thinkers who model an inclusive spirit and graduate prepared for success in a profession or higher education.

This statement communicates that critical thinking and inclusivity are prioritized educational values at the school and that employability and admission to college are the standards for success.

Lead in Education with Vision and Values

Do you want to develop a school mission statement that clearly communicates the educational values of the institution you lead? Are you interested in setting academic standards, establishing a campus culture, and doing the work to produce positive future outcomes as an education leader? If so, the Marymount University Online Doctorate in Education program can help you reach your professional goals.

Created for working professionals, Marymount’s flexible online Ed.D. allows students to personalize their coursework according to their vocational goals. Students in the program cite many personal benefits , including building relationships with fellow students and faculty members, honing their project completion skills, and improving their research abilities.

Student Alexander Gagnet says, “What I love best about the program is the care and attention the faculty put into the success of all the students. You really feel wanted and appreciated for your hard work and effort.”

Students also appreciate the way that the program allows them to meet their personal and professional obligations while in school.

“Not to be ignored is the fact that the online program allows you to be who you are AND be a student,” explains Marie Gemelli-Carroll . “It is a key benefit to be able to do classwork on your own time as long as you meet the assigned deadlines.”

Are you ready to further your career by earning a doctorate in education? Marymount University’s online Ed.D. features a practical curriculum and is a top program choice that will prepare you to lead positive change in education. Click here to connect with an enrollment advisor .

How to Write a Powerful Teacher-Leader Mission Statement of Education

Embarking on a teacher leadership journey is a huge deal. It requires clarity of purpose and a strong foundation rooted in core values. A well-crafted teacher-leader mission statement of education is one of the most powerful tools to guide this journey. In this post, we’re diving into the first crucial step – reflecting on your core values – and outlining additional steps to create a mission statement that embodies your passion for education and non-negotiable principles. Let’s get into the art of crafting a mission statement that’s not just a piece of paper but a daily reminder of why you’re on this leadership path.

Step 1: Reflect on Your Core Values

Before penning down your mission statement of education, take the time to reflect deeply on your core values. What are the principle beliefs fueling your passion and make you tick as an educator?

What are your educational non-negotiables? Are there specific ideals that drive your commitment to student success and well-being? Reflecting on these aspects will provide a solid foundation for your mission statement.

Related: The Roadmap from Teacher to Teacher-Leader

Step 2: Define Your Vision for Education

Now, let’s dream a bit. What’s your big-picture vision for education? What kind of impact do you want to make? What positive changes do you want to see, and how will you contribute to these transformations? Defining your vision will help shape the overarching goal of your mission statement of education.

Learn more about teacher-leaders in the math discipline on my friend Mona’s podcast.

Ready to Lead, But Not Ready to Leave the Classroom?

Step 3: identify your unique contribution.

We all bring something special to the table. What’s your unique blend of skills, strengths, and experiences? Identifying your unique contribution will help distinguish your mission statement, making it a personal and authentic representation of your commitment to leadership in education.

Related: Crafting a Teacher-Leader Portfolio that Stands Out

Step 4: Drafting Your Mission Statement of Education

Now’s the time to put pen to paper, or fingers to keyboard. Keep it concise, yet impactful. Clearly state your purpose, values, and vision. Use language that resonates with your personal style and passion for education. Ensure that your mission statement serves as a guiding force, grounding you as you navigate the challenges and triumphs of teacher leadership.

Your Teacher-Leader Journey Begins Today!

Click the link below for a free PDF download of the Roadmap from Teacher to Teacher-Leader

This full-color PDF document is the perfect motivational tool to guide your teacher-leader journey. Sized at 11″x17″ it easily fits most standard picture frames.

Step 5: Seek Feedback and Refine

Now, don’t keep it all to yourself. Share your draft with your trusted crew – colleagues, mentors, or fellow educators. Consider different perspectives and make adjustments that strengthen the clarity and resonance of your statement. This collaborative process ensures that your mission statement reflects not only your values but also resonates with the broader educational community.

Related: Embracing Mentorship in the Education Sector

Crafting a teacher-leader mission statement of educationis a transformative process that goes beyond words on paper. It is a journey of self-discovery, a commitment to core values, and a roadmap for inspiring change in the realm of education. By reflecting on your core values, defining your vision, identifying your unique contribution, and drafting a powerful statement, you set the stage for a purposeful and impactful leadership journey. Let your mission statement be the compass that guides you as you navigate the responsibilities and joys of leading in the field of education.

Stay Informed with Teacher-Leader Lifeline

We empower teachers into transition to leadership and non-traditional education roles with confidence and clarity.

Everyone Needs a Lifeline

Especially teacher leaders.

Sign up for our newsletter to stay informed about new posts, courses, free resources, and tools to support your journey as a Teacher Leader!

Wait, Teacher-Leader - Before You Go....

Join the Teacher-Leader Community

Join an exclusive community of educators looking to expand our impact beyond the classroom. Whether you are a new teacher, seasoned teacher-leader, or growing teacher entrepreneur, we gather to support, uplift, and inspire!

This group is all about community, not competition , and we provide guidance, growth opportunities, and life each other up.

Secure your space while it is FREE. This community will go behind a paywall very soon!

Do You Know Your School’s Vision? Tips on Making a Meaningful Mission Statement

Here’s a challenge for you: Without looking, write down the vision of your school or district. You may not be able to write it down verbatim, but can you at least identify and articulate the main points in your own words?

My principal and I gave this challenge to a group of educators at a conference last summer in a session we taught on how to make meaningful change in your own school. Of the approximately 200 educators from across the country who attended our session, less than 10 percent could confidently meet this challenge.

But what we found to be even more alarming was the general agreement that many of the official vision statements were relatively meaningless. They were full of broad and ambiguous statements that were great for hanging on the wall, but pretty ineffective in terms of motivating people to strive for a common goal of excellence. Here’s one such example: “To create 21st-century learners through the development and delivery of a diverse set of strategic teaching and learning strategies in a way that is targeted to enhance the individual growth pathway for each learner so that learning outcomes are maximized for the long-term benefit of the communities we serve.” While this type of vision statement might win an eduspeak award, it certainly doesn’t elicit inspiration and a common purpose.

If you spend time researching the fundamental ingredients of any successful organization, whether it’s a business, a nonprofit, or a school, one thing that immediately becomes apparent is a deeply ingrained shared vision. A few examples:

• Habitat for Humanity: “A world where everyone has a decent place to live.” • Disney: “To make people happy.” • Google: “To organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful.” • Cleveland Heights-University Heights City School District (Ohio): “Preparing All Students for Success in A Global Economy (P.A.S.S.A.G.E.)”

Not only do each of these examples contain details about the future state the organization can have on the world, but each is also clear and concise enough that everyone in these organizations can use the statement to help focus their work on achieving that envisioned future state. Simply put, words have power. And a powerful vision statement is one that gives everyone in the organization a vivid sense of purpose in the work they do. This is why, in my view, any school or district that is really serious about changing the status quo for its students has to start with a thorough evaluation of its core beliefs and how those may be articulated in a clear mission and vision statement.

But as powerful as words may be, they will remain only words unless they embody the actions of every stakeholder who belongs to the learning community, especially the students. So my second challenge is for you to ask yourself the following question: Does your vision pass the red face test? In other words, if you gave your vision to an outside observer and asked her to tour your school for a day, could she identify examples that match the words in the statement to the actions of members of your learning community? Or would she come up blank, leaving you embarrassed with a red face?

If you pass this test, then you are indeed on the way to creating a culture of shared purpose—a culture where common goals and common language can be the catalyst that closes the gap between the current reality for the school and the future state all stakeholders desire.

If you spend time researching the fundamental ingredients of any successful organization, one thing that immediately becomes apparent is a deeply ingrained shared vision."

I believe organizations that fail to recognize the essential nature of a shared vision are doomed to remain stuck in the status quo. Leaders of such organizations may try to demand excellence through policy, procedures, or mandates, but unless there is an inherent buy-in throughout all aspects of the organization, such excellence will be fleeting. Think of an example of a top-down mandate that, while well intentioned, was ultimately ineffective. Whether originating from the government, district leadership, or a school administrator, imposing one-size-fits-all conditions on an organization often ignores the true capacity of that organization: its people.

Simply put, excellence comes not from silver bullets, but from sharing a passion for a common goal and taking advantage of the ideas and input of the people doing the work to achieve that common goal. Schools that have successfully embarked on journeys toward educational excellence are the ones that have smartly aligned all stakeholders —parents, teachers, administrators, community members, and students—to a shared purpose and then relentlessly enabled conditions for open, candid collaboration to drive innovation.

In the book Collective Genius: The Art and Practice of Leading Innovation , the authors state that purpose is often misunderstood. They write, “It’s not what a group does, but why it does what it does … the question every group should ask itself: If we disappeared today, how would the world be different tomorrow?” If we enable educators to truly find their purpose in the work they do—i.e. their True North —with structures that help them connect that purpose with a larger organization-wide goal, then we have created a potent tool for driving innovative change that our students and communities deserve.

While it may be a naive oversimplification, I honestly believe that a shared vision is the primary ingredient in the secret sauce to drive innovation in our schools. If what you do is clearly aligned with your inner purpose, then you will be passionate about the work you do. You will eagerly collaborate with others, you will find ways to share ideas and resources to help yourself and others reach your common goals, and you will have a relentless focus on continuous improvement and innovation.

What if this common purpose, articulated in a genuine shared vision, was the ethos of every school? I believe it can be. Who’s up for the challenge?

Sign Up for EdWeek Update

Edweek top school jobs, sign up & sign in.

100 Vision and Mission Statements for Classrooms

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

definitions of vision and mission statements, explained below

A mission statement defines your class’s purpose and primary objectives. It explains to the students and parents why we spend every day in the classroom together.

For mission statements, you might want to ask:

What are the three to five core reasons why the students are being educated?
What is unique about your classroom or teaching philosophy that informs your beliefs about education?

A vision statement describes the future aspirations you have for the class. For vision statements, you might want to ask:

What do you want to achieve by the end of the year?
What sort of children or students do we intend to grow?

It’s good to have one of each in your classroom. So, let’s check out some examples.

Mission Statements for Classrooms

Let’s start with mission statements – remember, this is your purpose , often written in present-tense. This will guide your day-to-day beliefs and values.

1. Kindergarten (Ages 4-5)

Safe, Welcoming and Collaborative: “We create a safe and welcoming learning environment that encourages creativity, curiosity, and collaboration.”
Inclusive and Engaging: “We support each child’s unique potential by offering inclusive and engaging educational experiences.”
Social and Emotional Development: “We emphasize the promotion of social and emotional skills, fostering a sense of belonging and self-confidence.”
Cognitive Growth: “Our classroom provides stimulating activities and resources that advance cognitive development and critical thinking.”
Holistic Enrichment: “We commit to delivering a holistic, well-rounded education that values play, exploration, and creativity.”
Enabling Discovery: “We fuel a love of learning through exploration and discovery, nurturing natural curiosity in our students.”
Community Connection: “Our classroom bridges the gap between home and school, fostering a compassionate community within our classroom.”
Cultivating Creativity: “We promote originality and innovation, inspiring each child to express their unique perspectives and ideas.”
Growth Mindset: “We instill grit and perseverance, helping children overcome challenges and celebrate their progress.”
Balancing Individual and Group Needs: “Our classroom strikes a balance between individual attention and teamwork, teaching children to respect and value diversity.”

2. Lower Elementary (Ages 5-8)

Discreet Growth: “Our classroom focuses on individual growth, developing personalized strategies to cultivate each child’s unique strengths and skills.”
Active Learning: “We foster an active learning environment that encourages intellectual curiosity and independent thinking.”
Joyful Learning: “Our classroom strives to make learning a joyful experience, integrating play, exploration, and creativity into our curriculum.”
Inclusive Excellence: “We embrace diversity and inclusion , promoting respect and understanding within our diverse classroom.”
Student Confidence: “We work to instill confidence in our students, empowering them to express their thoughts, ideas, and feelings.”
Global Awareness: “Our classroom teaches our students to value and respect all cultures, fostering global awareness and citizenship.”
Collaborative Spirit: “We promote teamwork and cooperation, guiding students to work effectively and respectfully in groups.”
Practical Life Skills: “We engage students in practical life skills activities to promote responsibility, independence, and discipline.”
Literacy Emphasis: “Our classroom emphasizes the importance of literacy skills, building strong foundations for reading, writing, listening, and speaking.”
Parent-Teacher Cooperation: “We maintain open communication with parents and caregivers to collaboratively support each child’s learning journey.”

3. Upper Elementary (Ages 9-11)

Academic Excellence: “Our classroom provides a rigorous academic environment that challenges students and fosters a deep love of learning.”
Critical Thinking: “We nurture critical thinking skills, teaching students to analyze, evaluate, and create in all areas of study.”
Respectful Communication: “We foster open and respectful communication, training students to express themselves effectively and considerately.”
Social Responsibility: “We develop socially responsible individuals, emphasizing the importance of community service and civic duty.”
Technological Literacy: “Our classroom ensures digital competence, integrating technology in our curriculum to prepare students for the digital age.”
Leadership Attitude: “We cultivate leadership skills, encouraging students to take initiative and make responsible decisions.”
Emotional Intelligence: “We encourage emotional intelligence, helping students to understand and manage their emotions and empathize with others.”
Adaptive Learning: “Our classroom offers an adaptive learning environment that meets students where they are, supporting their unique learning style and pace.”
Growth Mindset: “We foster a growth mindset, helping students understand that effort leads to improvement and success.”
Lifelong Learning: “Our classroom instills a love for lifelong learning, inspiring students to become curious, motivated, and self-directed learners.”

4. Middle School (Ages 11-13)

Intellectual Curiosity: “Our classroom cultivates intellectual curiosity, challenging students to ask questions, explore ideas, and seek understanding.”
Creative Innovation: “We foster an environment where creativity and originality are valued, encouraging students to think outside the box.”
Civic Engagement: “We encourage civic engagement, teaching students the value of service and the importance of active participation in their community.”
Resilience and Determination: “Our classroom nurtures resilience and determination, helping students cope with setbacks and maintain motivation.”
Collaborative Inquiry: “We promote a collaborative and inquiry-based learning environment, emphasizing the importance of working together to solve problems.”
Healthy Relationships: “Our classroom teaches students to form and maintain healthy relationships, fostering kindness, empathy, and respect.”
Leadership and Accountability: “We develop leadership skills and accountability, preparing students to take responsibility for their actions and decisions.”
Academic Success: “Our classroom provides rigorous academics, aiming to translate knowledge into real-world applications.”
Digital Competency: “We instill digital literacy and competence, recognizing the increasing role of technology in education and career readiness.”
Self-Directed Learning: “Our classroom empowers students to become self-directed learners, fostering independence and initiative.”

5. High School (Ages 13-18)

Graduate Preparedness: “We ensure every student is academically and socially prepared for the responsibilities and independence of post-secondary life.”
Career Readiness: “We equip students with necessary skills and knowledge for future careers, fostering a clear understanding of various professional fields.”
Empowered Citizenship: “Our classroom nurtures informed, active citizenship, instilling an understanding of civic roles and responsibilities.”
Personal Development: “We focus on holistic personal development, encouraging emotional intelligence, resilience, and character growth.”
Independent Thought: “We stimulate independent, critical thinking, empowering students to formulate, analyze, and articulate their own ideas and viewpoints.”
Cultural Competency: “We promote cultural competency, creating understanding and respect for diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences.”
Life Skills Mastery: “We teach essential life skills, from money management and organization to communication and problem-solving.”
Social-Emotional Wellbeing: “We foster social-emotional wellbeing, helping students navigate interpersonal dynamics, stress, and emotional health.”
Global Awareness: “Our classroom cultivates global awareness and sustainable thinking, connecting local actions to the wider world.”
Innovation and Technology: “We drive innovation and digital literacy, preparing students for a rapidly evolving technological landscape.”

Vision Statements for Classrooms

Now, let’s move onto your vision statement. Remember, vision statements are about where you’re going – what do you want to achieve for the class and the students? They’re going to be future-oriented statements that talk about your aspirations.

Child’s Love for Learning: “We envision a classroom where every child discovers their love of learning, nurtures their inherent curiosity and builds a foundation for lifelong education.”
Compassionate Community: “Our hope is to cultivate a compassionate learning community highlighting the values of empathy, kindness, and mutual respect.”
Nurturing Environment: “We strive to foster a nurturing environment where each child feels safe, valued, and capable of expressing their thoughts and feelings confidently.”
Creativity and Imagination: “Our vision is a vibrant classroom where creativity and imagination are celebrated, instilling a lifelong passion for exploration and innovation.”
Empowered Learners: “We aspire to develop confident and independent learners, secure in their unique abilities and engaged in their personal learning journey.”
Empathy and Consideration: “The vision in this classroom is for our students to become empathetic beings who understand and value their roles in a larger community.”
Cooperative Learning: “We envision creating a classroom environment that values teamwork and cooperation, guiding students to work together towards common goals.”
Literacy Development: “We strive for our students to form a strong love for reading and writing in this classroom, laying the foundation for powerful literacy skills.”
Holistic Skills Development: “We aim to foster a range of skills in the classroom, from cognitive and motor skills, to socio-emotional abilities, in our students.”
Resilience and Optimism: “Our vision is to equip our students with resilience and optimism to overcome obstacles, viewing challenges in the classroom as opportunities for growth.”
Cultivating Inquiry: “We aim to nurture a classroom environment where curiosity drives the learning process, sparking a lifelong quest for knowledge.”
Joyful Learning Environment: “Our vision is to make learning a source of joy, incorporating different styles of learning in our diverse classroom.”
Holistic Growth: “We aspire to support each student’s cognitive, social, physical and emotional growth in a nurturing and stimulating classroom environment.”
Well-Rounded Learner: “Our vision is to mold well-rounded individuals excelling in academic and creative areas while also demonstrating empathy and respectful behaviour.”
Independent Learners: “We aim to cultivate independent thinkers who confidently pursue self-directed classroom learning and meaningfully apply their knowledge in real-life situations.”
Global Citizens: “We envision our students becoming compassionate global citizens who respect and value cultural diversity by starting out with a focus on good classroom citizenship.”
Teamwork and Leadership: “We strive to promote a classroom environment that encourages teamwork, leadership and collaborative problem solving.”
Values and Respect: “In our classroom, we aim to foster values of honesty , responsibility, and respect, guiding students to become responsible and ethical citizens.”
Effective Communicators: “Our vision is to empower students to become confident communicators, expressing their thoughts and ideas skillfully in the classroom.”
Lifelong Learners: “We aspire to create a passion for learning that extends beyond the classroom and develops into a lifelong love.”
Academic Proficiency: “Our vision is a classroom where each student achieves academic proficiency, setting the foundation for a successful educational journey.”
Critical Thinkers: “We aim to mold critical thinkers who analyze and reflect on their learning, fostering intellectual independence and innovative problem-solving.”
Community Stewards: “We aspire for our students to become responsible stewards of their community, understanding and respecting the value of service and civic duty.”
Culturally Mindful: “Our vision is to develop culturally mindful students who appreciate and respect diversity, fostering an inclusive and accepting classroom environment.”
Confident Learners: “We aim to cultivate confident learners in the classroom who take risks in their learning process, evolving through challenges and achievements.”
Technological Literacy: “We envision a classroom where students are technologically literate, being adequately prepared to navigate an increasingly digital world.”
Empathy and Respect: “Our hope is to foster a classroom environment of empathy and respect where students learn to value each other’s perspectives and experiences.”
Holistic Development: “We strive for holistic growth of our students – academically, socially, and emotionally – developing well-rounded individuals.”
Resilient Attitude: “In our classroom, we aspire to nurture resilient learners who see failures as stepping stones on the path to success.”
Responsible Citizenship: “We envision our classroom as a microcosm of society, where students learn the importance of responsibility, respect, and community engagement.”
Intellectual Curiosity : “We aim to cultivate intellectual curiosity, envisioning a classroom where questions lead to exploration and understanding.”
Creative Mindset: “Our vision is to create an environment that nourishes creativity and innovation, inspiring students to think outside the box.”
Community Engagement: “We aspire for our students to be active participants in their communities, fostering civic awareness and responsibility.”
Resilient Learners: “We envision a classroom nurturing resilience and determination, teaching students to persist in the face of challenges.”
Collaborative Environment: “Our vision is a classroom that thrives on collaboration, where students learn to respect diverse opinions and work productively in teams.”
Positive Relationships: “We aim to foster a classroom environment where students learn to develop and maintain positive, respectful relationships with peers and adults.”
Balanced Growth: “Our goal is to promote balanced academic, emotional, and social growth for each student, fostering well-rounded individuals.”
Global Minds: “We strive to cultivate worldly students who appreciate diverse cultures and perspectives, preparing them to thrive in a global society.”
Technologically Proficient: “We envision students who are proficient and ethical in their use of technology, ready to adapt to the ever-evolving digital world.”
Life-Long Learners: “In our classroom, we seek to instill the desire for lifelong learning, encouraging intellectual curiosity and growth beyond the school years.”

Tip: Start with your Teaching Philosophy

When crafting a vision and mission statement for your classroom, consider the core values that you have, which form the core of your teaching philosophy. These will likely end up becoming embedded in your mission and vision.

Consider your pedagogy , classroom management style , and personal values .

For example, if you’re a teacher who embraces a constructivist pedagogy , you’d likely embed ideas like “ active learning ” and “ inquiry ” into your mission. If you’re a teacher who embraces progressive pedagogy , you’d likely embed ideas like “empowered citizens” into your vision.

Core values and philosophies that may resonate with you as a teacher include:

Lifelong Learning
Respect for All
Inclusivity
Empathy and Compassion
Collaboration
Professionalism
Adaptability
Encouragement
Student-Centered Approach
Innovation and Creativity
Critical Thinking
Enthusiasm and Passion
Accountability
Continuous Improvement
Dedication to Excellence
Cultural Competence
Positive Reinforcement

Before you Go

I’ve also got some other, related, mission and vision articles that might be equally useful to you:

Vision and Mission Statements for Schools
Vision and Mission Statements for Libraries
Vision and Mission Statements for Universities
Vision and Mission Statements for Childcare
Vision and Mission Statements for Gyms

Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 10 Reasons you’re Perpetually Single
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 20 Montessori Toddler Bedrooms (Design Inspiration)
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 21 Montessori Homeschool Setups
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 101 Hidden Talents Examples

Creating a School Mission Statement in 2024 with Examples

January 23, 2024

By Tomislav

Key Takeaways

Purpose and Clarity : Emphasize the school’s purpose, focusing on simplicity and clarity to unite students, staff, and parents. Impact and Resonance : Aim for a mission statement that inspires and unites the school community, fostering a positive and cohesive environment. Crafting Approach : Avoid complex jargon, clearly differentiate the mission from vision and values, and ensure it’s student-centric and memorable. Development Process : Involve brainstorming, feedback, and flexibility for revisions, steering clear of generic generators and templates.

Crafting a School Mission Statement: Objectives and Impact

To create a meaningful school mission statement, consider its core objectives.

Ask yourself, what’s the goal?

Many schools use their mission and vision statements to overload on buzzwords.

I believe this approach is unnecessary and counterproductive.

Objectives of a school mission statement should include:

Expressing the school’s purpose
Being student-centric
Uniting students, staff, and parents around a common message

For a mission statement to be effective, it must be understandable and relatable for everyone involved.

Many schools miss the mark by creating statements that are overly long, complex, and ultimately devoid of meaning.

What Impact Can a Powerful Mission Statement Have?

In my view, mission statements are often underutilized in schools.

The issue isn’t the lack of mission statements, but their failure to create tangible benefits.

Schools, as complex entities, play significant roles in lives and need to foster positivity, inspiration, and unity.

A well-crafted mission statement can inject these sentiments into the school environment.

While a mission statement alone won’t transform a school, it’s a valuable tool that contributes positively and lasts for generations.

Remember, especially since it’s a cost-free strategy with enduring benefits.

How to Craft a School Mission Statement That Does Its Job

First, forget the idea that school mission statements must be complex and overly intellectual . They should be easily understandable, not requiring a wordsmith.

Secondly, it’s common for schools to confuse mission, vision, and values statements , sometimes combining all three.

A school mission statement is a present-oriented reflection of the school’s aims, values, and capabilities.

Key point: While it reflects aims and values, a mission statement shouldn’t list them explicitly ; that’s for vision and values statements.

In my view, a school mission statement should be:

Simple enough for students to understand
Rooted in the present
Student-centric
Inspirational , authentic, and humble

A school mission statement only works if embraced by students, teachers, and parents, which requires meeting most, if not all, of these guidelines.

Five Actionable Tips for Creating a School Mission Statement:

Describe what your school does for the students.
Brainstorm multiple statements .
Reflect overnight after brainstorming, then review with fresh eyes.
Seek multiple opinions .
Remember, it’s okay to change a mission statement; it’s not set in stone.

Mission Statement Generators and Templates

I’ve discussed the 3 best free mission statement generators in another article, which you’re welcome to check out.

However, for creating mission statements for schools, these generators didn’t yield impressive results, so I wouldn’t recommend them for this specific purpose.

They seem more geared towards company mission statements .

The Whole Whale mission statement generator might be an exception, but be ready to put in significant effort yourself.

In that case, it might be more sensible not to use a generator at all.

This applies to various online mission statement templates as well; they simply don’t fit well with educational institutions.

Before delving into examples, I want to direct you to an article I wrote on the importance of a mission statement in content marketing.

Many principles from that article are also relevant to school mission statements.

11 Examples of Great School Mission Statements

Pacific Elementary School

Pacific School’s mission is to prepare children for life through experiential learning that addresses the needs of the whole child. We create a safe and secure school environment that promotes social and academic growth and develops an enthusiasm for learning, a positive self-image and cross-cultural understanding.

Lincoln Elementary School

Lincoln Elementary is committed to providing its students a rigorous and relevant education within a safe, positive and productive school environment. Collaboratively we will develop students who are lifelong learners and who can apply their talents and knowledge to become successful, contributing members in our culturally diverse and ever changing society.

Hickory Elementary School

Hickory Elementary School is a dedicated learning community committed to the academic growth of all students. We ensure all learners achieve intellectual and personal excellence while preparing for future endeavors.

Edwins Elementary School

We prepare all students to achieve excellence by providing the highest quality education to empower each to become lifelong learners who positively impact their families, communities, and the world.

Davis Middle School

Our Mission is to provide relevant and challenging instruction. We will set high expectations for students, focusing on experiences that build positive relationships, collaboration, persistence, and that encourage maximum student effort.

Brown Middle School

We, the faculty, staff and community of Brown Middle School are committed to working together relentlessly as we strive to continuously improve student achievement creating a momentous impact where every child’s unique gift is nurtured.

Cooper Middle School

The Cooper community supports the growth of all students to think critically and function as empathetic, respectful, and responsible global citizens.

Longdendale High School

Our mission is to provide an education which seeks to approach all learners on the basis of their individual needs, building self respect and motivation, rewarding progress, providing opportunities and engendering a real zest for life-long learning. We know that education that meets the needs of each individual is transformational and is central to future personal happiness.

Littlerock High School

The Mission of Littlerock High School is to provide a safe and secure setting that promotes personal and academic growth wherein students are given comprehensive and challenging opportunities to become productive citizens.

Wellesley High School

We cultivate positive learning experiences and foster responsibility and integrity so that upon leaving Wellesley High School our students will continue to contribute to their worlds.

Stone Memorial High School

The mission of Stone Memorial High School is to provide every student the opportunity to acquire the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to be a contributing member of society.

Construction Company Mission Statement in 2024: Complete Guide

Ultimate keyword research tool search volume accuracy comparison.

School Mission Statements: The 2021 Guide [+ 6 Writing Tips]

Written by Maria Kampen

School Leaders

What a school mission statement is
How school mission and vision statements work together
6 steps for writing your own mission statement
Common problems with school mission statements
Why school mission statements are important
How Prodigy can help you support your school mission statement

What drives growth in your school community?

It could be your school’s culture , a focus on teacher professional development , or even prioritizing useful teaching strategies . However, none may be as important as school mission statements , which are essential for student development and effective learning.

School mission statements indicate the priorities and goals of a school community and can have an incredible impact on student achievement.

What are school mission statements?

If your school is a car, then the mission statement is the engine.

School mission statements are documents that define where your school is going and drive decisions accordingly. They layout educational goals, community priorities and the purpose of your school.

Lots of different organizations have mission statements — non-profit organizations, government departments, small businesses, big corporations.

Mission statements guide growth and learning in many different contexts.

School vision and mission statements

If your school is a car and your mission statement is the engine, the school vision statement is the GPS system.

Vision statements aren’t the same as mission statements, but they are closely related. To create a mission statement, you should first have a vision for where you want to see your school in the future.

John C. Gabriel and Paul C. Farmer, authors of How to Help Your School Thrive Without Breaking the Bank , write:

“A vision is your school’s goal — where you hope to see it in the future. The mission provides an overview of the steps planned to achieve that future. A vision is concise and easy to recall, whereas a mission is lengthier and more explanatory in nature.”

The vision statement provides a glimpse at your school’s ideal future .

Everyone — students, faculty and staff — in your school should be able to recite your school vision statement.

How to write a school mission statement

1. gather stakeholders.

To start, consult students, parents, teachers, staff and any other members of the school community with insights to offer.

District 100 teacher leaders met yesterday after school to help craft the new district belief statements. The vision, mission and belief statements will be presented to the BOE at their January regular meeting. Thanks to all stakeholder groups for their input. pic.twitter.com/V9B7eWOrQb — Berwyn South District 100 (@BerwynSouth100) December 20, 2017

Put together a small group that reflects all your stakeholders, and get them brainstorming. Where do they think the school is now? Where do they see it in the future? What part of the school’s identity should be emphasized?

Working with different members from your school community has several benefits:

It reduces the fear of change — It’s natural to be apprehensive when school culture starts changing. Opening a dialogue now will help smooth out any tension.
It improves buy-in — When teachers are consulted on changes to the school’s mission statement, they’re more likely to support it in the classroom and throughout the day-to-day operations of your building.
It makes your mission better — Teachers, parents, staff and students all have unique perspectives. Use their feedback to build a comprehensive school mission statement that recognizes the diversity of opinions found in the school community.

Make sure the group is representative of all your stakeholders, but still small enough to be able to complete meaningful work in a reasonable timeframe. Values can differ widely within a community, so be sure to take enough time to make informed decisions about all your different options.

2. Look at your school

Every school has unique opportunities, challenges, weaknesses and strengths. Luckily, your school is full of data that can help you identify these areas. To gather data, look at:

Socio-economic status of students
Urban versus rural schools
Diversity in the classroom
ESL or multilingual students
Graduation rates
Common discipline problems
Attendance rates
Staff turnover
Staff assessment results
Special needs students
Student extracurriculars
Standardized test results
Student achievement
Special communities (military families, immigrant populations, international students)

Every piece of information is an important part of your school’s unique identity. Use the data you have to identify the top issues, strengths and opportunities for growth in your school community.

3. Look at the future

A vision is what you hope the future will be, and a school mission statement is what’s going to get you there. It’s extremely important you write your mission statement with the future in mind.

With your stakeholders, take all the data you’ve collected and ask:

Based on what we know now about our school, what will it look like in five or ten years if we’re completely successful?

There’s your vision.

To develop your school mission statement, ask what steps the school community needs to take to achieve the vision. Questions to ask include:

What’s already in place to help us move forward?
How do we envision our school growing?
What needs to be changed?
What characteristics should we emphasize?
What changes do we see happening in the future?

School mission statements shouldn’t need to be changed every year, but they’re not static. They’re going to grow and adapt with your school community.

Achieving a vision is a big task, and it should seem a little challenging. Vision and mission statements push growth and learning in an aspirational direction. You might be surprised at what your school can achieve.

4. Write your first draft

You’ve answered the questions and gathered the data. Now it’s time for the hard part — putting it all down into words.

It might seem like a daunting task to create an articulate, comprehensive and inspiring plan for your school’s future. Just start with a draft -- it doesn’t have to be perfect. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to revise it over the next few steps.

If you’d like, ask stakeholders with a talent for writing to give you a hand, but keep the group limited to two or three people.

Some best practices for writing include:

Avoid cliches — Global citizenship, 21st century skills and a nurturing environment are all important aspects of an effective school, but they’ve been overused to the point of meaninglessness.
Get specific — Take those cliches and make them fit your school, not the other way around. In your school, global citizenship could be a focus on second language literacy, or learning about other cultures through the lens of different subjects.
Be authentic — Keep your school and community in mind at all times as you’re writing, and speak to the real needs they’re seeing.

Consider including the ages and characteristics of your students, teaching strategies or curriculum philosophies used in your school, and one or two other features you feel are important for communicating your school’s mission.

When you have a draft you’re satisfied with, bring it back to the larger group of stakeholders you brainstormed with in the first place. Make sure:

They’re happy with the priorities you’ve laid out
They have no major concerns about any of the school characteristics you’ve highlighted
The school mission statement is a true representation of how they want the school to grow

This could be difficult and may require some compromise, because all groups will have members with conflicting beliefs and priorities. There’s no sure way to solve it, but try to reach a consensus on big issues and focus less on smaller concerns, like specific wording.

At the end of this, you should have a mission statement that reflects the values and priorities of as many stakeholders as possible.

5. Give the school mission statement to the community

Present your school mission statement to the whole community. This could be through a meeting with district leaders, a parent evening, or through the school newsletter.

Invite community members to raise any serious objections with you. If you’ve missed a key issue, this is their opportunity to contribute ideas.

Gather feedback from the community and make sure:

The concerns of the majority of stakeholders have been met
The mission statement compliments the vision of the school, as well as any other messaging materials
Stakeholders agree the school mission statement is an accurate representation of current and future school growth

Use this opportunity to explain why your school mission and vision statement will be important for future growth, and how you see the needs of the community reflected in it.

6. Put your school mission statement into action

Congratulations! You’ve written your school mission statement.

Now for the hardest part — using it!

All the hard work you put into your school mission statement is useless if you put it up on your website and forget about it.

Put the vision and mission statement everywhere: on the wall, in your office, in your weekly newsletter, on your website. Make sure it’s visible to the entire community.

This is also a great opportunity to run a professional development session on how to effectively use school mission statements in the classroom. Go over why it’s important, how it reflects the school’s priorities and how it should be used to guide classroom decisions.

Schools are not defined by the mission statement on the wall; they are defined by what actually goes on in classrooms. — Danny Steele (@SteeleThoughts) November 12, 2017

Make sure parents and students know what the mission statement means, and tell potential students why it’s so important to you school. It’s also a good idea to revisit the mission statement at the beginning and end of every year. Is it still relevant? Has anything major changed? Are you still actively working to achieve your vision? If there are changes, it’s time to re-align your goals and priorities.

It can be difficult to write school mission statements well. Common problems include:

Insincere, generic language
No staff or community buy-in

Writing an effective mission statement requires self-reflection as a community, and a lot of consultation with different stakeholders. It’s a process that shouldn’t be rushed.

Guides community growth

Your community should be able to access the mission statement easily. If they don’t already know it, it should make sense to them when they hear it.

School mission statements are a tool used to drive growth within the school community and guide it towards a desired outcome (the achievement of the school vision statement).

Use the school vision and mission statements to guide staff development and build a school improvement plan. Focus on areas of growth not just in the classroom, but for your staff. When school mission statements guide teacher learning, teachers are better equipped to serve students in a way that aligns with the school’s vision and mission.

Guides decision-making and priorities

According to a study by educators that analyzed the mission statements of K-12 schools in Texas,

“Once written, the mission statement must become a living document that informs all day-to-day practices of the administration, teachers and students. Too often mission statements exist only on paper rather than being a lived philosophy and commitment to the ongoing development of an effective education institution.”

This means school mission statements have serious implications for the priorities and goals of your school, including how money, time, and other resources are allocated. Use your vision and mission to effectively use all available resources.

Gives weight to the learning process

School mission statements are a tool for guiding and shaping the learning process. In some places, school mission statements are even a precursor to accreditation because they have such a large impact on how student learning is prioritized.

Ultimately, school mission statements are classroom tools. If your mission statement places an emphasis on digital skills, it might lead teachers to use a blended learning approach. If curiosity and exploration are a priority, then project-based learning or inquiry- based learning might be useful classroom strategies.

When vision and mission statements align with what’s happening in the classroom, student learning will improve.

After all, isn’t that the ultimate goal?

How Prodigy can help implement school mission statements

It’s almost inevitable your school mission statement will prioritize academic excellence. Math competency is a key component of academic excellence, but it’s also a subject many students struggle with.

Here at Prodigy, our mission is simple: to help every child in the world love learning .

Prodigy encourages math fluency through a daily math practice that keeps students engaged and motivated. Our unique game-based design challenges students to complete quests, explore new worlds and collect points while answering curriculum-aligned math questions.

Unique reporting and alignment features give teachers the tools to deliver a personalized learning experience for each student in an engaging and adaptive environment. A powerful algorithm ensures students receive questions that build on their existing skills to keep them moving forward in the curriculum.

Learn more about how Prodigy can deliver customized learning in your school, and sign up for your free teacher account today:

How to use Prodigy to reinforce in-class lessons
How to use Prodigy for formative assessments
3 steps to use Prodigy as an RTI tool

Share this article

Table of Contents

Did you know?

Students at one school district mastered 68% more math skills on average when they used Prodigy.

The truth about school mission statements

by: Leslie Crawford | Updated: May 5, 2024

Print article

The truth about school mission statements

Let’s say you’re considering a particular high school for your child. So you start by visiting the school’s website. You click on the About page. You’re looking for a mission statement — something that spells out the school’s purpose, expresses its core values, and states goals for the students. Maybe your search is rewarded with something like this: We foster an environment that enables our students to become courageous learners, prepares them for success in the 21st century, and promotes equity and social justice.

Sounds amazing, right? Not so fast. Plenty of schools have carefully crafted mission statements that sound terrific. At some schools, the walls are emblazoned with values like “Integrity,” “Grit,” and “Courage.” But what do these vague, aspirational words actually mean? More importantly, are a school’s core values being put into practice in a meaningful way to benefit your student?

More than a mission statement

What you’re looking for is evidence that a school intentionally and thoughtfully brings its core values into every aspect of the school’s operations — what’s known in edu-speak as “coherent design.”

“Coherent design should really be the first thing that parents look for,” says Sujata Bhatt, co-founder and senior fellow at Transcend , a nonprofit that works with districts and communities to design equitable schools. To know if a school has a coherent design, Bhatt advises parents to ask clarifying questions like, “Will my child have daily experiences that they can connect and make meaningful? Or will they be going from one disjointed experience to another, killing time?”

Then, adds Bhatt, a parent and teen can get even more specific about what the high schooler wants from a school, be it an environmental justice school, STEAM school, or a more traditional college prep school. What’s essential, says Bhatt, “is that the school experience is unified in some way.”

A mission statement doesn’t mean much unless it’s deeply integrated into how a school operates. “You wouldn’t build the building without the blueprint,” Bhatt says. “And so there needs to be a school blueprint that takes the mission, the design principles, the graduate aims, and says, ‘This is the promise we’re making you as families, that these are the five things that your child will really be competent at by the time they leave our doors.’”

The good news is that many schools do practice what they preach. “We know these schools exist,” says Aylon Samouha, co-founder of Transcend. The ones that do it right, he notes, “are magical.” Samouha recommends looking for these signs that a school’s core values are being put into practice successfully.

The school’s stated mission and values are based on what’s important to the school community.

Too often, mission statements are written by a few top administrators behind closed doors. This can lead to a disconnect between what a school says is important and what matters most to the students and their families. Look for evidence that the school community had a hand in deciding what their school should be focusing on.

Barry Sommer, who runs Lindsay Educational Foundation , a nonprofit that helps districts nationwide transform their schools, says their program invites all stakeholders to take part in creating core values, a process he says must include a vision for the school’s graduates — who they envision them to be intellectually, socially, and emotionally. “How do you organize what’s best for an 18-year-old if you have no idea what parents, educators, unions, and our learners want?” says Sommer. “Essentially we are working with a community, taking them on a design journey so together we create what we want this school to be, what principles inform the core values.”

School design experts say community-created mission statements translate into practices that give a school’s students what they need to be successful. Transcend’s Samouha points to Van Ness Elementary School in Washington D.C.’s 6th ward. A majority of the Title I public school’s students come from low-income households. The community considered the unique needs of the student body when creating their core values, which include providing “a safe supportive community to maximize learning for each student.” That means ensuring all kids get a healthy breakfast and lunch; a welcoming place for after-school studies; a school social worker, psychologist, and nurse; and an emphasis on not just academics but social and emotional learning (SEL) to teach self-regulation skills to cope with trauma experienced at home or their neighborhood.

At Valor Collegiate Academies in Nashville, TN, the middle school’s mission statement reads: “We exist to empower our diverse community to live inspired, purposeful lives.” Valor walks the talk, supporting students’ academic success (it has a GreatSchools’ “student progress” rating of 9), but putting equal weight on the students’ social and emotional health thanks to its nationally renowned SEL program.

It feels good to be there.

Pay attention to that gut feeling you get when you walk into a school, says Samouha.

“When you go to Disneyland, every single part of that experience reinforces and reflects the overall experience,” Samouha says. “All the things that come together when you step inside: The smells, the look of it, everything is aligned to the aim of happiness.” Cast members famously don’t remove their costume heads in front of the public. There’s no trash littering the grounds. The ride attendants are friendly. Those seemingly small details create a coherent experience for the visitor.

And while no teenager alive would describe their high school as the happiest place on Earth, a high school can make your student feel welcome, inspired, and yes, happy. “Look and observe what actually is happening in the school,” says Samouha, “and trust what you see.” If you walk into the school and see posters emblazoned in big letters with common core value words like, “Cooperation,” “Respect,” and “Support,” but then see students with their heads down looking unhappy or a staff member greeting you brusquely, these are clues that their core values aren’t being embraced by those running the school.

What they’re doing makes sense.

To find out if a school is practicing what they preach, look for consistency in everything from the learning materials to the instruction methods. Does a school say it values inclusivity and social justice but use a dated curriculum that teaches history or literature from a limited number of perspectives? Does the mission statement say a school promotes “curiosity” and “engaged learners,” when in reality teachers stand in front of students lecturing without engaging students in discussion?

“Incoherence can be experienced in school to school, classroom to classroom, day to day,” Samouha says. “Maybe there was magic during math class, but some administrator told you to shut up during lunch.” It’s hard work for a school to pull off, Samouha says, but successful schools are diligent about making sure every aspect of a student’s day consistently reflects the school’s values.

Everyone at the school knows — and lives — the school’s values.

Ask teachers and students what their school values most. Ask current students and families about the school’s vibe. You want to hear that everyone — from the sports coach and the librarian to the teachers and administrators — is living up to the school’s values in their daily interactions.

That doesn’t mean a teacher can’t have a bad day. But if the bus driver keeps order by yelling or the secretary is regularly dismissive, it speaks volumes about the school’s culture. “Ask as many open-ended questions as you can,” says Samouha. “Talk to the school leader and ask, ‘Can you tell me more about your core values? What is the experience of going to school like for your learners?’” It’s a great sign, adds Samouha, if they can easily answer your questions.

What to consider when looking at a school’s core values

For parents:.

Ask who wrote a school’s mission statement: A founder? A small group of top administrators? Members of the school community, which may best reflect the unique needs of that school?
Don’t take a school’s mission statement at face value. Look for evidence that it’s reflected in what’s really going on at a school, and trust your gut.

For educators and administrators:

Invite your entire community — staff, faculty, parents, and students — to create or revisit your school’s mission statement. Make sure the mission statement addresses the unique needs and goals of your school.
Look at how your school’s values are reflected in day-to-day practice. If words like “Respect,” “Integrity,” “Compassion,” Inclusion,” and “Curiosity” are part of your mission statement, are the staff and faculty consciously practicing these values with students and with each other?
If you want to learn more about implementing coherent design at your school, check out this excellent step-by-step blueprint .

This article is part of our Transforming High School series , a collection of stories, videos, and podcasts exploring the practices that prepare students for success in college and beyond.

Homes Nearby

Homes for rent and sale near schools

Why your neighborhood school closes for good – and what to do when it does

Families-of-color-fighting-for-discipline

How families of color can fight for fair discipline in school

What to do when the teacher underestimates your child

Dealing with teacher bias

Yes! Sign me up for updates relevant to my child's grade.

Please enter a valid email address

Thank you for signing up!

Server Issue: Please try again later. Sorry for the inconvenience

Created by the Great Schools Partnership , the GLOSSARY OF EDUCATION REFORM is a comprehensive online resource that describes widely used school-improvement terms, concepts, and strategies for journalists, parents, and community members. | Learn more »

Mission Statement

A mission statement , or simply a mission , is a public declaration that schools or other educational organizations use to describe their founding purpose and major organizational commitments—i.e., what they doe and why they do it. A mission statement may describe a school’s day-to-day operational objectives, its instructional values, or its public commitments to its students and community.

The term mission statement is often used interchangeably with vision statement . While some educators and schools may loosely define the two terms, or even blur the traditional lines that have separated them, there appears to be general agreement in the education community on the major distinctions between a “mission” and a “vision.” Generally speaking, a vision statement expresses a hoped-for future reality, while a mission statement declares the practical commitments and actions that a school believes are needed to achieve its vision. While a vision statement describes the end goal—the change sought by a school—a mission statement may describe its broad academic and operational assurances, as well as its commitment to its students and community.

For a more detailed discussion, see mission and vision .

Alphabetical Search

Mission Statement for Schools

Ai generator.

Crafting an effective mission statement is crucial for every school. It sets the tone for the school’s values, educational outlook, and the overall learning environment. This guide aims to help educators and school administrators understand the importance of a robust mission statement and offers a practical approach to writing one. With a host of examples from successful schools, it provides inspiration and clarity on creating a mission statement that truly represents your school’s vision, goals, and commitment to quality education.

What is the Best Mission Statement for Schools?

The best mission statement for a school is one that genuinely reflects its core values, vision, and commitment towards its students’ growth and development. It should be clear, concise, and compelling enough to inspire all stakeholders, including students, staff, parents, and the community. However, it’s important to note that what might be the “best” statement can vary based on a school’s individual philosophy and goals.

Here’s an example:

“Our mission is to foster an inclusive, innovative learning environment that encourages students to explore their potential, nurture their talents, and become compassionate, lifelong learners. We commit to providing a holistic education that balances academic excellence with personal growth, preparing our students to navigate life’s challenges and contribute meaningfully to society.”

This statement encapsulates the school’s commitment to inclusive and innovative education, nurturing each student’s talents, and promoting lifelong learning. It expresses the school’s dedication to holistic education, integrating academic and personal development. Most importantly, it underlines the goal of equipping students to contribute meaningfully to society.

Mission Statements of Top 100 Schools in the World

Mission statements articulate the fundamental objectives of educational institutions. Here are mission statements from some of the world’s top schools, reflecting their commitment to excellence and student growth:
Harrow School, UK: “Our mission is to nurture students to develop academically, culturally and socially in a warm and friendly atmosphere.”
Charterhouse School, UK: “We aim to provide a balanced education that delivers academic ambition and a breadth of co-curricular activity, focusing on the needs and potential of each individual student.”
Lyceum Alpinum Zuoz, Switzerland: “Our mission is to provide a holistic education in an inspiring, international environment, encouraging each student’s individual growth and fostering life-long learning.”
The English International College, Spain: “Our mission is to provide an enriched education within a nurturing and diverse community, inspiring students to become global thinkers.”
St. Petersburg High School, Russia: “Our mission is to inspire students to be active learners, enabling them to become responsible citizens and leaders.”
La Martiniere Girls’ College, India: “Our mission is to empower students to strive for excellence, fostering an environment of curiosity, creativity, and responsibility.”
Ashbury College, Canada: “Our mission is to inspire students to become intellectually curious, courageous and compassionate individuals.”
Doon School, India: “Our mission is to attract and develop exceptional boys and teachers from diverse backgrounds to serve a meritocratic India.”
American School of Bombay, India: “Our mission is to inspire all of our students to continuous inquiry, empowering them with the skills, courage, optimism, and integrity to pursue their dreams and enhance the lives of others.”
Marlborough College, Malaysia: “Our mission is to challenge every individual to explore, to create, to compete and to serve.”
Island School, Hong Kong: “Our mission is to provide an inspiring, open and supportive environment for students to excel and to become thoughtful, ambitious and caring global citizens.”
The British School Caracas, Venezuela: “Our mission is to provide high quality British international education that meets the needs of our globally connected students.”
British International School, Vietnam: “Our mission is to inspire students to achieve their academic potential and nurture their individual talents, preparing them for the global opportunities of tomorrow.”
International School of Dusseldorf, Germany: “Our mission is to provide an innovative, collaborative and inclusive learning environment where each student is empowered to create and shape their own future.”
The Latin School of Chicago, USA: “Our mission is to encourage students to grow and thrive acadically and socially, fostering a spirit of inquiry and lifelong learning.”
Aiglon College, Switzerland: “Our mission is to develop future leaders who are intellectually secure, socially responsible, and equipped to engage positively with a rapidly evolving world.”
Wellington College International, China: “Our mission is to inspire and nurture globally-minded students who are driven to succeed and make a positive difference in the world.”
The American School in London: “Our mission is to develop students who are confident, inquisitive learners, ready to engage in the global community.”
International School Bangkok, Thailand: “Our mission is to enrich communities through diverse learning experiences and act as a beacon of academic excellence and innovation.”
Brentwood College School, Canada: “Our mission is to inspire every student to discover their full potential through a dedication to academic achievement, personal growth, and service to others.”
Brent International School, Philippines: “Our mission is to develop individuals to be responsible citizens, able to meet the challenges of an evolving global community.”
Appleby College, Canada: “Our mission is to educate and enable young men and women to become leaders of character, major contributors to, and valued representatives of their local, national and international communities.”
International School of Brussels, Belgium: “Our mission is to deliver a comprehensive international education in a culturally rich environment, preparing students to engage effectively in an ever-changing world.”
Tilton School, USA: “Our mission is to challenge students to embrace and navigate a world marked by diversity and change.”
Aitchison College, Pakistan: “Our mission is to provide an environment which treats students as individuals, encouraging them to develop their full potential in both academics and personal growth.”
International School of Beijing, China: “Our mission is to foster creative and critical thinkers who collaborate and communicate effectively to solve complex problems with an innovative approach.”
American International School Chennai, India: “Our mission is to inspire students to become confident, creative learners and global citizens who demonstrate a spirit of respect, and understanding.”
St. Gilgen International School, Austria: “Our mission is to inspire students to become passionate learners, critical thinkers and committed contributors in our diverse and changing world.”
The British School of Paris, France: “Our mission is to provide a British education of the highest quality in an international setting, nurturing a passion for learning, and fostering independent thought.”
Armand Hammer United World College, USA: “Our mission is to unite people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future.”
United World College Costa Rica: “Our mission is to educate a diverse group of people to become happy, healthy and committed individuals, capable through their leadership and engagement, of fostering positive change in their communities in order to contribute to achieving a more sustainable and peaceful world.”
High Tech High, USA: “Our mission is to develop and support innovative public schools where all students develop the academic, workplace, and citizenship skills for postsecondary success.”
Singapore International School, India: “Our mission is to provide our students with a holistic education in a caring and nurturing environment that will allow them to maximize their potential.”
Fieldston School, USA: “Our mission is to provide every single student a rigorous and balanced education in a caring and inclusive learning community.”
Mount Kelly, UK: “Our mission is to nurture the whole student and to encourage them to explore all facets of their potential academically, artistically, physically, and socially.”
Scotch College, Australia: “Our mission is to promote a love of learning and to instil a positive approach to education, by making it stimulating and enjoyable.”
International School of Monaco: “Our mission is to provide an outstanding international education that inspires students to be ambitious, responsible, and caring global citizens.”
Wesley College, Australia: “Our mission is to enable a lifelong passion for learning and to inspire a commitment to an intelligent and generous life of service to others.”
Rugby School, UK: “Our mission is to inspire and guide our students to develop their full potential in mind, body, and spirit.”
St. Andrew’s School, USA: “Our mission is to develop students in a challenging academic environment who are good stewards and who strive to make a difference in the world.”
United Nations International School, USA: “Our mission is to foster a multicultural and inquiry-led learning environment that cultivates respect for diversity and academic excellence.”
Dulwich College Beijing, China: “Our mission is to inspire students to respect and appreciate other cultures, and to be proactive, responsible citizens of the world.”
Fettes College, UK: “Our mission is to develop broadly educated, confident, and thoughtful individuals who are prepared for life beyond school.”
Diocesan School for Girls, New Zealand: “Our mission is to be a school of distinction that celebrates diversity, empowering girls to be successful, responsible, and caring global citizens.”
Sacred Heart School, Japan: “Our mission is to educate women to make a difference in the world based on the principles of the Sacred Heart.”
The British School of Brussels, Belgium: “Our mission is to provide a broad education in a safe, supportive environment, promoting an enjoyment of learning, creativity, and excellence.”
The Doon School, India: “Our mission is to attract and develop exceptional boys and teachers from diverse backgrounds to serve a meritocratic India.”
St. Paul’s School, USA: “Our mission is to seek to educate the whole person to maturity, encompassing academics, arts, athletics, and spiritual and personal growth.”
Tonbridge School, UK: “Our mission is to provide a caring and enlightened environment in which the talents of each individual flourish.”
American School of Paris, France: “Our mission is to provide a student-centered, American-style education that encourages children to develop their full potential and to become independent thinkers.”
Geelong Grammar School, Australia: “Our mission is to inspire our students to learn, lead, and contribute to their communities and beyond.”
Queen’s College, UK: “Our mission is to provide an inclusive community where each student is encouraged to seek excellence in all their endeavors, fostering resilience, creativity, and a love of learning.”
UWC Thailand: “Our mission is to unite people, nations, and cultures through education for a more peaceful and sustainable future.”
Brentwood School, USA: “Our mission is to inspire every student to think critically, act responsibly, and discover a passion for lifelong learning.”
Danish International School, Denmark: “Our mission is to promote high standards of education and foster a passion for learning within an international environment.”
Indian School Al Ghubra, Oman: “Our mission is to provide a stimulating environment that celebrates diversity, instills a love for learning, and encourages holistic development.”
St. Paul’s School, Brazil: “Our mission is to provide a British and Brazilian holistic education for an international student body, fostering individuals who are ambitious, inquisitive, resilient, and kind.”
International School of The Hague, Netherlands: “Our mission is to provide high-quality international education, nurture students’ talents, broaden their horizons and foster a love of learning.”
Auckland Grammar School, New Zealand: “Our mission is to inspire students to become lifelong learners and well-rounded individuals ready for the global world.”
West Island School, Hong Kong: “Our mission is to create a vibrant, caring community and an exceptional learning environment, where diversity is celebrated and mutual respect between adults and students prevails.”
British School in Tokyo, Japan: “Our mission is to foster a love of learning, a sense of self-belief and respect for all, equipping students to thrive in a fast-changing world.”
Dwight School, USA: “Our mission is to inspire students to find their spark of genius, to think critically, and to become compassionate, responsible global citizens.”
Branksome Hall, Canada: “Our mission is to challenge and inspire girls to love learning and shape a better world.”
Cairo American College, Egypt: “Our mission is to provide a learning environment that nurtures the unique potential of each individual to become lifelong learners and responsible global citizens.”
Vienna International School, Austria: “Our mission is to empower and inspire students to become active, compassionate lifelong learners, respectful of all cultures and equipped to contribute to a rapidly evolving world.”
Shanghai American School, China: “Our mission is to inspire in all students a passion for learning, a commitment to act with integrity and a desire to make a positive difference in the world.”
International School of Geneva, Switzerland: “Our mission is to provide a comprehensive education that encourages students to be knowledgeable, responsible, and engaged world citizens.”
Bergen County Academies, USA: “Our mission is to foster academic and personal growth in students through rigorous coursework and an emphasis on character development.”
The Stephen Perse Foundation, UK: “Our mission is to inspire students to be curious, collaborative, creative, and resilient learners who are ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges of the world.”
Braeburn School, Kenya: “Our mission is to provide a nurturing, multicultural environment where students receive a robust, holistic education and emerge as responsible global citizens.”
Scindia School, India: “Our mission is to develop in students the qualities of integrity, honesty, trust, tolerance and compassion, to foster a scientific temper and to encourage them to adopt a global and universal perspective.”
American School of Barcelona, Spain: “Our mission is to empower our students to become global citizens who shape their world through independence, creativity, and critical thinking.”
Swedish International School of Jönköping, Sweden: “Our mission is to create a secure and stimulating environment where we can inspire students to acquire the skills and knowledge needed in a global society.”
Scotch College, Australia: “Our mission is to encourage young people to know themselves and to use their individual skills to build a better world.”
The British International School Shanghai, China: “Our mission is to nurture talent and ambition, fostering independence and equipping our students with the skills and qualities needed to thrive in the global community.”
The Perse School, UK: “Our mission is to inspire intellectually curious students to achieve their full academic potential and to make a positive difference in the world.”
The English School, Kuwait: “Our mission is to provide a high-quality education in a caring and supportive environment, which inspires our students to become confident, creative, and critical thinkers.”
International School of Luxembourg: “Our mission is to provide a safe, nurturing environment where we inspire and challenge our students to explore, discover, and thrive in a world of complex change.”
Wellington College, UK: “Our mission is to deliver a holistic education that builds resilience, balances academic rigour with co-curricular breadth, fosters an outward-looking global perspective, and promotes service to society.”
St. Paul’s School, Brazil: “Our mission is to provide a challenging academic environment which fosters ethical, confident and inquiring individuals who contribute positively to local and global communities.”
American School of Brasilia, Brazil: “Our mission is to provide our students with a rigorous academic program that fosters ethical citizenship, a love for learning, fluency in English, and an appreciation of Brazilian culture.”
The American School in London, UK: “Our mission is to develop in students a love of learning, the ability to think critically, and the confidence to pursue their dreams and contribute to their communities.”
German International School New York, USA: “Our mission is to empower our students to become well-rounded, lifelong learners and responsible citizens with strong moral values, prepared to meet the challenges of the future.”
International School of Düsseldorf, Germany: “Our mission is to foster international-mindedness, promote intercultural understanding and respect for diversity, encouraging students to be active, compassionate, lifelong learners.”
Seoul International School, South Korea: “Our mission is to inspire creativity and enhance intellectual growth through a challenging curriculum, preparing students to be dynamic leaders who can shape their futures and contribute globally.”
St. Andrews International School, Thailand: “Our mission is to provide an inclusive, international education in a safe, happy, supportive and stimulating environment where all the needs of the individual learner are met.”
Canadian International School of Hong Kong: “Our mission is to inspire excellence, cultivate character, and empower engagement locally and globally.”
St. John’s International School, Belgium: “Our mission is to provide an education that promotes self-esteem, encourages personal development, and prepares individuals to fulfill their purpose in a global community.”
International School of Tanganyika, Tanzania: “Our mission is to challenge and inspire students to be principled and resourceful citizens of the world.”
Swiss International School in Qatar: “Our mission is to develop ambitious lifelong learners who respect and display an understanding of cultural diversity, and are proactive in their responsibility towards society.”
American School of Bombay, India: “Our mission is to foster a nurturing environment that encourages students to realize their unique potential as responsible global citizens.”
The Island School, Hong Kong: “Our mission is to equip students with the skills and desire for life-long learning and inspire enthusiastic participation in our diverse community and world.”
Washington International School, USA: “Our mission is to inspire students to become global citizens, capable of making significant contributions to society, by providing a challenging international education.”
Reggio Emilia Approach, Italy: “Our mission is to educate students to use critical thinking, explore their natural curiosity, and develop a love for learning.”
Moriah College, Australia: “Our mission is to foster a love of learning, instill Jewish values and promote academic excellence in a warm and caring environment.”
German School Jakarta, Indonesia: “Our mission is to empower students to be independent, responsible, and active global citizens through a stimulating and challenging international education.”
Eton College, UK: “Our mission is to provide a broad education that fosters well-rounded individuals, instills a love for learning, and prepares them for a successful life and contribution to society.”
International School Manila, Philippines: “Our mission is to inspire our students to be knowledgeable, responsible, and enthused about life-long learning and global citizenship.”
Sidwell Friends School, USA: “Our mission is to educate students to seek the truth, challenge their intellect, honor differences, and serve others with the purpose of creating a more just and compassionate world.”

Mission Statement Examples for Schools to Inspire or Copy

Size: 266 KB

Here are some mission statement examples for schools that could inspire you or serve as a model for crafting your own:

1. “To develop globally-minded learners who are compassionate, curious, and ready to make an impact on the world.”

2. “Our school cultivates critical thinkers, fosters a love of learning, and prepares students to be responsible citizens in a diverse world.”

3. “To create an inclusive environment that empowers students to become lifelong learners and leaders of tomorrow.”

4. “Our mission is to inspire every student to reach their full potential through innovative, creative, and progressive education.”

5. “To cultivate an engaging and supportive learning environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and academic excellence.”

6. “Our mission is to empower students to develop intellectual curiosity, ethical character, global awareness, and community spirit.”

7. “To prepare students for a changing world by instilling in them a passion for learning, respect for others, and commitment to personal integrity.”

8. “Our mission is to foster a rich, student-centered learning environment that embraces diversity and encourages respect, creativity, and individual growth.”

9. “To inspire in students a love for learning, a respect for self and others, and the skills to pursue their dreams confidently.”

10. “Our mission is to promote academic excellence, nurture creativity, encourage responsibility, and foster a sense of community among our students.”

11. “To create a nurturing and challenging learning environment where students feel empowered to explore, innovate, and achieve.”

12. “Our mission is to foster a community of learners who strive for excellence and aspire to become responsible global citizens.”

13. “To equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to lead meaningful, successful, and fulfilling lives.”

14. “Our mission is to cultivate a culture of respect and integrity, where students are encouraged to take risks and strive for excellence.”

15. “To inspire a lifelong passion for learning in our students, and to equip them with the skills to thrive in a global society.”

16. “Our mission is to foster an environment where students can develop a sense of self, an understanding of others, and an awareness of their place in the world.”

17. “To provide a well-rounded education that nurtures the intellectual, physical, social, and emotional development of every student.”

18. “Our mission is to inspire students to become passionate learners, ethical individuals, and engaged citizens.”

19. “To cultivate a diverse learning community that prepares students for lifelong success and global responsibility.”

20. “Our mission is to provide a dynamic, challenging, and holistic education that recognizes the uniqueness of each student and empowers them to reach their full potential.”

21. “To foster a love of learning, promote academic excellence, and prepare students to be responsible members of a global society.”

22. “Our mission is to develop independent thinkers who are committed to service, engaged in lifelong learning, and equipped to succeed in a global world.”

23. “To create a supportive learning environment that challenges students to achieve their personal best, both acadically and as citizens of their communities.”

24. “Our mission is to nurture the whole student, foster a love of learning, promote respect for all people, and inspire students to be leaders for change.”

25. “To foster a community of learners committed to academic excellence, personal integrity, and civic responsibility.”

26. “Our mission is to create a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to pursue their passions, become empathetic leaders, and act as responsible global citizens.”

27. “To provide a comprehensive educational experience that fosters intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, community involvement, and respect for diversity.”

28. “Our mission is to inspire students to strive for excellence and to nurture their unique abilities in a safe and supportive environment.”

29. “To cultivate a love for learning, promote academic and personal growth, and prepare students to contribute positively to society.”

30. “Our mission is to develop future leaders who are confident, creative, compassionate, and equipped with the skills necessary to make a positive impact on the world.”

31. “To inspire, educate, and empower each student to become a compassionate, lifelong learner who seeks to enrich the global community.”

32. “Our mission is to provide a diverse, inclusive learning environment where every student is challenged to become a critical and innovative thinker.”

33. “To empower students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to become responsible and productive members of a global society.”

34. “Our mission is to educate students to become self-directed learners, effective communicators, and critical thinkers in a multicultural world.”

35. “To provide a nurturing and academically challenging environment where students can grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally.”

36. “Our mission is to create an environment that fosters mutual respect, inspires love of learning, and expects high standards of academic achievement.”

37. “To provide a dynamic and supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to utilize their strengths, pursue their passions, and achieve their full potential.”

38. “Our mission is to cultivate an inclusive and vibrant learning community that encourages growth, cooperation, and social responsibility.”

39. “To provide a rich, engaging, and challenging curriculum that prepares students for the complexities of our ever-changing world.”

40. “Our mission is to foster an inclusive, diverse learning community that inspires passion for knowledge, values individuality, and encourages intellectual curiosity.”

41. “To inspire students to become innovative thinkers, ethical citizens, and compassionate leaders who are prepared to meet the challenges of a global society.”

42. “Our mission is to provide a safe, nurturing environment where students can pursue academic excellence and develop their unique talents.”

43. “To develop in students a love of learning, a strong moral compass, the commitment to serve, and the confidence to lead.”

44. “Our mission is to prepare students for lifelong learning, ethical leadership, and active citizenship in a diverse world.”

45. “To educate students in a dynamic learning community that values diversity, mutual respect, academic excellence, and the free exchange of ideas.”

46. “Our mission is to foster an inclusive and collaborative learning environment that encourages each student to reach their full potential.”

47. “To nurture a community of learners who value knowledge, embrace diversity, and are prepared to make significant contributions to society.”

48. “Our mission is to provide an education that develops intellectual curiosity, fosters a sense of social responsibility, and instills a lifelong passion for learning.”

49. “To equip students with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to become leaders in a rapidly changing world.”

50. “Our mission is to create a nurturing learning environment that fosters academic excellence, encourages ethical behavior, and develops responsible citizenship.”

51. “To inspire students to become lifelong learners who are knowledgeable, respectful, and engaged citizens of the world.”

52. “Our mission is to provide a comprehensive and challenging academic program that encourages students to realize their greatest potential.”

53. “To foster an inclusive, caring community that nurtures the whole child and prepares them for success in a global society.”

54. “Our mission is to provide a rigorous, globally-focused education that fosters intellect, empathy, and integrity in our students.”

55. “To create a nurturing and challenging learning environment where students feel empowered to explore, innovate, and achieve.”

56. “Our mission is to provide a dynamic, challenging, and holistic education that recognizes the uniqueness of each student and empowers them to reach their full potential.”

57. “To promote academic excellence, nurture creativity, encourage responsibility, and foster a sense of community among our students.”

58. “Our mission is to foster a rich, student-centered learning environment that embraces diversity and encourages respect, creativity, and individual growth.”

59. “To inspire in students a love for learning, a respect for self and others, and the skills to pursue their dreams confidently.”

60. “Our mission is to create a nurturing and challenging learning environment where students are encouraged to pursue their passions, become empathetic leaders, and act as responsible global citizens.”

61. “To create a supportive learning environment that challenges students to achieve their personal best, both academically and as citizens of their communities.”

62. “Our mission is to nurture the whole student, foster a love of learning, promote respect for all people, and inspire students to be leaders for change.”

63. “To inspire students to become passionate learners, ethical individuals, and engaged citizens.”

64. “Our mission is to cultivate a diverse learning community that prepares students for lifelong success and global responsibility.”

65. “To create a supportive and challenging educational environment that promotes self-discipline, motivation, and excellence in learning.”

66. “Our mission is to provide a well-rounded education that nurtures the intellectual, physical, social, and emotional development of every student.”

67. “To inspire a lifelong passion for learning in our students, and to equip them with the skills to thrive in a global society.”

68. “Our mission is to cultivate a culture of respect and integrity, where students are encouraged to take risks and strive for excellence.”

69. “To provide a comprehensive educational experience that fosters intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, community involvement, and respect for diversity.”

70. “Our mission is to inspire students to strive for excellence and to nurture their unique abilities in a safe and supportive environment.”

71. “Our mission is to provide an environment that nurtures personal growth, fosters a love for learning, and prepares our students to become responsible citizens of the world.”

72. “To provide an education that challenges, empowers, and equips our students to pursue their dreams, serve their communities, and make a difference in the world.”

73. “Our mission is to inspire curiosity, foster empathy, promote leadership, and prepare students for a lifelong journey of learning and success.”

74. “To create a community of learners who are confident, inspired, and empowered to make a positive contribution to the world.”

75. “Our mission is to cultivate a respectful and inclusive learning community where each student can explore, grow, and achieve their full potential.”

76. “To provide an inspiring and supportive learning environment that fosters intellectual, creative, and moral growth.”

77. “Our mission is to develop individuals who strive for academic excellence, embrace diversity, and lead with integrity.”

78. “To empower students with the skills, knowledge, and attitudes to be lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and responsible citizens.”

79. “Our mission is to nurture a love for learning, encourage an innovative spirit, and foster a commitment to excellence.”

80. “To develop well-rounded individuals who are intellectually curious, globally aware, and committed to positive change.”

81. “Our mission is to promote an inclusive, respectful learning environment where each student is encouraged to strive for academic, physical and moral excellence.”

82. “To cultivate a learning environment that promotes respect, curiosity, creativity, and the pursuit of knowledge.”

83. “Our mission is to create an educational atmosphere that encourages each student to realize their full academic, social, and moral potential.”

84. “To provide a supportive and enriching learning environment that nurtures the unique talents and potential of each student.”

85. “Our mission is to cultivate academic excellence, foster personal growth, and inspire a passion for learning.”

86. “To develop students who are capable of critical thinking, creative expression, and academic excellence.”

87. “Our mission is to promote a community of learning that cultivates critical thinking, fosters a love for knowledge, and instills a sense of responsibility and respect.”

88. “To provide a nurturing learning environment where students are encouraged to achieve academic excellence, personal growth, and cultural understanding.”

89. “Our mission is to foster a community of learners who aspire to be globally competent, environmentally conscious, and equipped with the skills for lifelong learning.”

90. “To cultivate intellectual curiosity, ethical behavior, and social responsibility in an inclusive, respectful learning environment.”

91. “Our mission is to prepare students to be leaders and innovators in a diverse and rapidly changing world.”

92. “To inspire students to be compassionate, responsible, and innovative learners who make a positive impact on their community and the world.”

93. “Our mission is to provide an engaging and challenging learning environment where students are encouraged to reach their full potential.”

94. “To cultivate a diverse and inclusive learning community that fosters academic excellence, personal growth, and global citizenship.”

95. “Our mission is to create a learning environment where students can thrive and become confident, compassionate, and committed lifelong learners.”

96. “To foster a passion for learning, a commitment to integrity, and a sense of social responsibility in every student.”

97. “Our mission is to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and values to become leaders in a global community.”

98. “To provide a learning environment that fosters academic excellence, promotes character development, and inspires a lifelong passion for learning.”

99. “Our mission is to educate students in a caring and inspiring environment, preparing them to be lifelong learners who respect diversity, act responsibly, and make positive contributions to society.”

100. “To inspire a love of learning, a commitment to personal integrity, and a sense of social responsibility in every student.”

Primary School Mission Statement Examples

Primary schools play an integral part in laying the foundation for a child’s education. These mission statements reflect the commitment of primary schools to providing a nurturing environment for young learners.

1. “Fostering a love for learning in a caring and supportive environment.” 2. “To develop the unique potential of each young learner.” 3. “Creating an atmosphere of curiosity, creativity, and community for all students.” 4. “Cultivating academic curiosity and personal growth in a nurturing setting.” 5. “Nurturing young minds to explore, create, and succeed.” 6. “Igniting the spark of lifelong learning in the hearts of young students.” 7. “Encouraging young students to dream, explore, and achieve.” 8. “Building a solid foundation for lifelong learning and personal development.” 9. “Promoting curiosity, respect, and a love of learning in a nurturing environment.” 10. “Creating confident and curious learners who are prepared for the future.”

Short Mission Statement Examples for Schools

Short and succinct, these mission statements get right to the heart of each school’s purpose and commitment to its students.

1. “Inspiring minds, building character, shaping futures.” 2. “Educating for life.” 3. “Creating lifelong learners.” 4. “Cultivating curiosity, character, and community.” 5. “Fostering future leaders.” 6. “Empowering students to excel.” 7. “Nurturing potential, inspiring success.” 8. “Championing innovation, integrity, and individuality.” 9. “Building a foundation for lifelong success.” 10. “Guiding students toward their full potential.”

Examples of Vision & Mission Statements for Schools

Schools often have both a vision and a mission statement, capturing the school’s aspirations and its core purpose. Here are examples that embody both.

1. “A world-class institution that fosters academic excellence, integrity, and community engagement. We strive to inspire each student to reach their full potential and become lifelong learners.” 2. “Our vision is a community of enthusiastic learners empowered to shape the world. Our mission is to foster an inclusive environment that nurtures creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.” 3. “Vision: Creating a global community of confident and compassionate lifelong learners. Mission: To empower students with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world.” 4. “Our vision is a world where all students achieve their full potential. Our mission is to provide a rigorous, globally-focused education that fosters intellect, empathy, and integrity.” 5. “Envisioning a future where education empowers individuals to make meaningful change. Our mission is to provide an inspiring and supportive learning environment that fosters intellectual, creative, and moral growth.” 6. “Vision: A community where every student is inspired to learn, innovate, and succeed. Mission: To provide a nurturing and challenging learning environment that encourages each student to explore their passions and excel.” 7. “Our vision is a world in which education equips all individuals to navigate their paths successfully. Our mission is to foster a love of learning, a spirit of inquiry, and a strong sense of social responsibility.” 8. “A vibrant learning community where students are motivated to reach their highest potential. Our mission is to create an atmosphere that promotes a love of learning, the development of character, and the drive to succeed.” 9. “Vision: A future where every student can thrive. Mission: To provide a rich, engaging, and challenging curriculum that encourages students to strive for academic and personal success.” 10. “Our vision is a world where every student has the opportunity to succeed. Our mission is to foster a learning community that nurtures academic achievement, personal growth, and social responsibility.”

Positive Mission Statement Examples for Schools

These mission statements use positive language to convey the school’s commitment to creating a supportive and motivating learning environment.

1. “Empowering students to pursue their passions and make a positive impact in the world.” 2. “Creating a vibrant community of learners who inspire and support one another.” 3. “Fostering an atmosphere of respect, inclusivity, and academic excellence.” 4. “Inspiring students to become lifelong learners and responsible global citizens.” 5. “Cultivating an environment that encourages exploration, innovation, and personal growth.” 6. “Promoting a love of learning and a commitment to social responsibility.” 7. “Encouraging each student to explore, grow, and achieve their full potential.” 8. “Building a community of learners who strive for excellence and contribute positively to the world.” 9. “Fostering an inclusive, challenging, and supportive learning environment.” 10. “Cultivating curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning in all students.”

Mission Statement Examples for Students

Individual students often create personal mission statements for students to guide their academic journey. Here are examples that reflect a student’s commitment to learning and personal growth.

1. “To pursue academic excellence and personal growth in a challenging and supportive learning environment.” 2. “To foster a love for learning, strive for personal excellence, and contribute positively to my community.” 3. “To seize every learning opportunity and strive to make a positive impact in the world.” 4. “To explore my passions, grow intellectually, and build a foundation for lifelong success.” 5. “To nurture my intellectual curiosity, strive for academic excellence, and make meaningful contributions to my community.” 6. “To seize every opportunity to learn, grow, and make a difference.” 7. “To foster a love for learning, strive for personal excellence, and inspire those around me.” 8. “To pursue my academic goals with passion, integrity, and a commitment to lifelong learning.” 9. “To seize every opportunity to learn, challenge myself, and contribute positively to my community.” 10. “To nurture my passions, strive for academic success, and make a positive impact in the world.”

Mission Statement Examples for School Project

These mission statements reflect the objectives and commitments of various school projects.

1. “To create an inclusive community that values diversity and fosters a love for learning.” 2. “To inspire creativity, encourage individuality, and promote a love for learning.” 3. “To foster an atmosphere of respect, collaboration, and academic excellence.” 4. “To create a nurturing environment that encourages students to explore their passions and strive for academic excellence.” 5. “To inspire curiosity, foster a love for learning, and encourage students to reach their full potential.” 6. “To promote a love for learning, encourage creativity, and foster an atmosphere of respect and collaboration.” 7. “To create a community of learners who inspire and support one another.” 8. “To inspire students to become lifelong learners and make a positive impact in the world.” 9. “To foster a love for learning, promote academic excellence, and inspire students to contribute positively to their community.” 10. “To create an inclusive learning community that encourages students to pursue their passions and strive for excellence.”

High School Mission Statement Examples

High schools play a crucial role in preparing students for their future endeavors. These high school mission statements capture a high school’s commitment to fostering academic and personal growth.

1. “To inspire and prepare each student to achieve their highest potential.” 2. “To create a vibrant learning community that fosters intellectual curiosity and personal growth.” 3. “Fostering an environment that encourages students to strive for academic excellence and social responsibility.” 4. “To prepare students for a future of success and lifelong learning.” 5. “To empower students with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to thrive in a diverse and rapidly changing world.” 6. “To inspire students to become lifelong learners and responsible global citizens.” 7. “To create a nurturing and challenging learning environment that encourages each student to reach their full potential.” 8. “To cultivate an atmosphere of respect, inclusivity, and academic excellence.” 9. “To foster a love for learning, a spirit of inquiry, and a strong sense of social responsibility.” 10. “To inspire each student to strive for academic and personal success and make a positive contribution to their community.”

How Do you Write a Mission Statement for School Education?

Writing a mission statement for a school requires a careful consideration of the school’s core values, educational philosophy, and goals for its students. Here are the steps to guide you through the process.

Understand the Purpose of a Mission Statement

A mission statement serves to articulate the fundamental purpose and aims of your school. It guides decision-making, informs the curriculum, and communicates to all stakeholders—students, staff, parents, and the wider community—what your school stands for and aspires to achieve.

Engage the School Community

The process of writing a mission statement should ideally involve the whole school community. This includes staff, students, parents, and even alumni. By including a diverse range of perspectives, you ensure that the mission statement truly reflects the collective goals and values of the community.

Define Your Core Values

Identify the core values that underpin your school’s philosophy and approach to education. These values could include respect, integrity, inclusivity, creativity, academic excellence, or lifelong learning.

Articulate Your Educational Philosophy

Clearly state your educational philosophy and approach. This could involve an emphasis on holistic development, fostering a love for learning, encouraging critical thinking, or preparing students for life beyond school.

Define the Goals for Your Students

What do you want your students to achieve by the time they graduate? Do you aim to develop well-rounded individuals, academic high-achievers, or active citizens? Define these goals explicitly in your mission statement.

Putting the School Mission Statement into Action: From Words to Impact

A mission statement is only as good as its implementation. Here’s how you can put your school’s mission statement into action.

Align Curriculum and Pedagogy

The mission statement should inform your curriculum and pedagogical approaches. Ensure that what is taught and how it is taught aligns with the values, philosophy, and goals stated in the mission statement.

Use the Mission Statement as a Decision-Making Tool

When making decisions about school policies, programs, or initiatives, refer back to the mission statement. It should serve as a compass, guiding all decisions to ensure they are in line with your school’s stated purpose and objectives.

Communicate the Mission Statement Regularly

Regularly remind students, staff, and parents about the mission statement. This can be done through school assemblies, newsletters, or the school website.

Review and Revise

Regularly review the mission statement to ensure that it remains relevant and reflects the evolving goals and values of the school community.

The Role of a Mission Statement in Schools

A mission statement plays a critical role in setting the direction for a school. It provides a clear statement of the school’s purpose, its values, and its commitment to its students.

Provides Direction

A mission statement provides a clear direction for the school. It outlines what the school aims to achieve, its educational philosophy, and the values it holds. This serves to guide all actions and decisions made within the school.

Communicates Expectations

The mission statement communicates to all stakeholders—students, parents, staff, and the wider community—what the school stands for and what it expects from its students.

Enhances School Culture

A well-articulated and embraced mission statement can significantly enhance school culture. It provides a shared vision and values that unite the school community, fostering a sense of identity, purpose, and belonging.

Guides Curriculum and Pedagogy

The mission statement should inform the school’s curriculum and pedagogical approach, ensuring that the teaching and learning practices align with the school’s stated philosophy and objectives.

In conclusion, a mission statement is not just a collection of words. It is a powerful tool that can shape the culture, direction, and effectiveness of a school. It requires careful consideration to craft, and ongoing commitment to live by.

Text prompt

Instructive
Professional

10 Examples of Public speaking

20 Examples of Gas lighting

Future Students
Current Students
Faculty/Staff

Current Students Hub

Master's Handbook

Graduate School of Education Mission and Vision

Office of Academic Affairs Mission

Our Vision: We envision a world where all learners are prepared to thrive in a dynamic future.

Our Mission: We produce groundbreaking research, model programs and exceptional leaders to achieve accessible, equitable and effective education for all learners.

Office of Academic Affairs Mission

The Office of Academic Affairs manages the administrative functions related to degree programs, admissions, student services, academic Areas and programs, curriculum planning and faculty actions. To that end, the Office provides resources and support for policies, procedures, data analytics and decision-making regarding academic programs; student degree progress, student engagement and events; admissions, recruitment and financial aid; courses, enrollment and scheduling; faculty searches, appointments and promotions; postdoctoral scholars; adjunct and visitor appointments; and academic operations at the GSE.

Printer-friendly version

Handbook Contents

Introduction
Stanford University Honor Code
Stanford University Fundamental Standard
Stanford University Patent Agreement
Overview of the Graduate School of Education Master's Programs
Degree Requirements
Graduate School of Education Course Policies
Program-Specific Requirements
Registration
Financial Support
Stanford EdCareers
Contact Information
Useful Links

PhD students, please contact

MA POLS and MA/PP students, please contact

EDS, ICE/IEPA, Individually Designed, LDT, MA/JD, MA/MBA students, please contact

Stanford Graduate School of Education

482 Galvez Mall Stanford, CA 94305-3096 Tel: (650) 723-2109

Contact Admissions
GSE Leadership
Site Feedback
Web Accessibility
Career Resources
Faculty Open Positions
Explore Courses
Academic Calendar
Office of the Registrar
Cubberley Library
StanfordWho
StanfordYou

Improving lives through learning

Stanford Home
Maps & Directions
Search Stanford
Emergency Info
Terms of Use
Non-Discrimination
Accessibility

Mission Statement, Higher Education

Reference work entry
First Online: 01 January 2020
pp 2057–2062
Cite this reference work entry

Matthew Hartley 3

Institutional mission ; Institutional purpose ; Mission statements ; Vision statements

Mission statements are efforts to codify a shared set of institutional beliefs and priorities. A mission statement articulates how an organization defines its purposes: Why does the institution exist? It articulates an organization’s shared values: What is important to us? What draws us together? It may also seek to explain why an organization is unique: What makes us distinctive or special? This shared understanding has the capacity to engender a sense of belonging and shared sense of commitment among people who work at an institution. Mission statements also are a way organizations signal their purposes and priorities to important external constituents.

How Mission Matters and A Brief History of Mission Statements

Anthropologist Clifford Geertz observed that humans are suspended in webs of significance they spin themselves (Geertz 1973 ). In the professional workplace, these webs...

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this chapter

Subscribe and save.

Get 10 units per month
Download Article/Chapter or eBook
1 Unit = 1 Article or 1 Chapter
Cancel anytime
Available as PDF
Read on any device
Instant download
Own it forever
Available as EPUB and PDF
Durable hardcover edition
Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Purchases are for personal use only

Institutional subscriptions

Bartkus, Barbara, Myron Glassman, and Bruce McAfee. 2006. Mission statement quality and financial performance. European Management Journal 24 (1): 86–94.

Google Scholar

Birnbaum, Robert. 2000. Management fads in higher education: Where they come from, what they do, why they fail . San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Chait, Richard. 1979. Mission Madness Strikes Our Colleges. The Chronicle of Higher Education 18: 36.

Chapleo, Chris. 2007. Barriers to brand building in UK universities? International Journal of Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Marketing 12 (1): 23–33.

Collins, James, and Jerry Porras. 1994. Built to last: Successful habits of visionary companies . New York: Harper Business.

Connell, Ian, and Dariusz Galasiński. 1998. Academic mission statements: An exercise in negotiation. Discourse & Society 9 (4): 457–479.

Cziarniawska, Barbara, and Joerges Bernward. 1996. Travel of ideas. In Translating organizational change , ed. B. Cziarniawska and G. Sevon, 13–47. Berlin: De Gruyter.

Davies, Gordon K. 1986. The importance of being general: Philosophy, politics and institutional mission statements. In Higher education: Handbook of theory and research , ed. J.C. Smart, 85–108. New York: Agathon Press.

Davies, Stuart W., and Keith W. Glaister. 1996. Spurs to higher things? Mission statements of UK universities. Higher Education Quarterly 50 (4): 261–294.

Deal, Terrence E., and Allan A. Kennedy. 1982. Corporate cultures: The rites and rituals of corporate life . Reading: Addison-Wesley.

Delucchi, Michael. 1997. Liberal arts colleges and the myth of uniqueness. The Journal of Higher Education 68 (4): 414–426.

Dill, David D. 1997. Focusing institutional mission to provide coherence and integration. In Planning and management for a changing environment , ed. M.W. Peterson, D.D. Dill, L.A. Mets, and Associates, 171–190. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Drucker, Peter. 1973. Management: Tasks, responsibilities, practices . New York: Harper & Row.

Ellis, Jennifer, and Paul Miller. 2014. Providing higher education in post-modern times: What do University mission statements tell us about what they believe and do? Research in Comparative and International Education 9 (1): 83–91.

Geertz, Clifford. 1973. The interpretation of cultures: Selected essays . New York: Basic Books.

Hartley, Matthew. 2002. Call to purpose: Mission-centered change at three liberal arts colleges . New York: Routledge.

Keller, George. 1983. Academic strategy: The management revolution in American higher education . Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press.

Keller, George. 2014. Transforming a college: The story of a little-known College’s strategic climb to National Distinction . Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press.

Kosmützky, Anna. 2012. Between mission and market position: Empirical findings on mission statements of German higher education institutions. Tertiary Education and Management 18 (1): 57–77.

Kuh, George D., and Elizabeth J. Whitt. 1988. The invisible tapestry: Culture in American Colleges and Universities (ASHE-ERIC higher education report no. 1). Washington, DC: ASHE/ERIC.

Leuthesser, Lance, and Chiranjeev Kohli. 1997. Corporate identity: The role of mission statements. Business Horizons 40 (3): 59–66.

Mackay, Lesley. 1996. Restructured and differentiated? Institutional responses to the changing environment of UK higher education. Higher Education Management 7 (2): 193–203.

Martin, W.B. 1985. Mission: A statement of identity and direction. In Opportunity in adversity: How colleges succeed in hard times , ed. J.S. Green and A. Levine. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Martin, Joanne, Martha S. Feldman, Mary Jo Hatch, and Sim B. Sitkin. 1983. The uniqueness paradox in organizational stories. Administrative Science Quarterly 28 (3): 438–453.

Meyer, John W., and Brian Rowan. 1977. Institutionalized organizations: Formal structure as myth and ceremony. American Journal of Sociology 83 (2): 340–363.

Morphew, Christopher C., and Matthew Hartley. 2006. Mission statements: A thematic analysis of rhetoric across institutional type. The Journal of Higher Education 77 (3): 456–471.

Peters, Thomas, and Robert Waterman. 1982. In search of excellence . New York: Random House.

Peterson, Marvin W., Kim S. Cameron, Philip Jones, Liza Mets, and Deborah Ettington. 1986. The organizational context for teaching and learning: A review of the research literature . Ann Arbor: National Center for Research to Improve Postsecondary Teaching and Learning, University of Michigan.

Schein, Edgar H. 1985. Organizational culture and leadership . San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Taylor, Barrett J., and Christopher C. Morphew. 2010. An analysis of baccalaureate college mission statements. Research in Higher Education 51 (5): 483–503.

Tierney, William G. 1988. Organizational culture in higher education. The Journal of Higher Education 59 (1): 2–21.

Trice, Harrison Miller, and Janice M. Beyer. 1993. The cultures of work organizations . Englewood Cliffs: Prentice Hall.

Wæraas, Arild, and Marianne N. Solbakk. 2009. Defining the essence of a university: Lessons from higher education branding. Higher Education 57 (4): 449–462.

Wilkins, Alan L., and William G. Ouchi. 1983. Efficient cultures: Exploring the relationship between culture and organizational performance. Administrative Science Quarterly 28 (3): 468–481.

Download references

Author information

Authors and affiliations.

University of Pennsylvania, Graduate School of Education, Philadelphia, PA, USA

Matthew Hartley

You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Matthew Hartley .

Editor information

Editors and affiliations.

CIPES - Centre for Research in Higher Education Policies and Faculty of Economics - U., Porto, Portugal

Pedro Nuno Teixeira

Department of Education, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea (Republic of)

Jung Cheol Shin

Section Editor information

Department of Education, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway

Bjorn Stensaker

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

Copyright information

About this entry

Cite this entry.

Hartley, M. (2020). Mission Statement, Higher Education. In: Teixeira, P.N., Shin, J.C. (eds) The International Encyclopedia of Higher Education Systems and Institutions. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-8905-9_587

Download citation

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-8905-9_587

Published : 19 August 2020

Publisher Name : Springer, Dordrecht

Print ISBN : 978-94-017-8904-2

Online ISBN : 978-94-017-8905-9

eBook Packages : Education Reference Module Humanities and Social Sciences Reference Module Education

Share this entry

Anyone you share the following link with will be able to read this content:

Sorry, a shareable link is not currently available for this article.

Provided by the Springer Nature SharedIt content-sharing initiative

Publish with us

Policies and ethics

Find a journal
Track your research

Featured Articles
Report Card Comments
Needs Improvement Comments
Teacher's Lounge
New Teachers
Our Bloggers
Article Library
Featured Lessons
Every-Day Edits
Lesson Library
Emergency Sub Plans
Character Education
Lesson of the Day
5-Minute Lessons
Learning Games
Lesson Planning
Subjects Center
Teaching Grammar
Leadership Resources
Parent Newsletter Resources
Advice from School Leaders
Programs, Strategies and Events
Principal Toolbox
Administrator's Desk
Interview Questions
Professional Learning Communities
Teachers Observing Teachers
Tech Lesson Plans
Science, Math & Reading Games
Tech in the Classroom
Web Site Reviews
Creating a WebQuest
Digital Citizenship
All Online PD Courses
Child Development Courses
Reading and Writing Courses
Math & Science Courses
Classroom Technology Courses
A to Z Grant Writing Courses
Spanish in the Classroom Course
Classroom Management
Responsive Classroom
Dr. Ken Shore: Classroom Problem Solver
Worksheet Library
Highlights for Children
Venn Diagram Templates
Reading Games
Word Search Puzzles
Math Crossword Puzzles
Geography A to Z
Holidays & Special Days
Internet Scavenger Hunts
Student Certificates

Newsletter Sign Up

Administrators

General Archive
Article Archive
Focus On...Admin Topics
Leadership Library
Newsletters 'R Us
Partners for Success
Principal Files
Principal Ideas
Principal's Toolbox
Education Headlines
How I Handled
Principal Blog
Principal Pointers
Programs of Interest
Parent Involvement
Technology and Internet
Best Books for Teachers, Students and Parents
Best Books for School Leaders
Exceptional Events
Great Meetings
Instant Meetings
Morning Math
Financial Planning
The Grants Center
Current Grants
Grants Articles
Grantwriting Column
More Grants Sources
Staffing & Training
All Columnists...
Carlton Ashby
Diane Hodges
Creating Newsletters
ABCs of Student Success
Caught on the Web
Newsletter Clipart
Parent Newsletter Templates
Parent Pointers
Top Admin Features
Newsletters 'R Us
Principal's Toolbox
Problem Solving Archive
Wire Side Chats
Grants Newsletter
Admin Columnists
George Pawlas
School Newsletters
"quoted"

Search form

What is your school's mission statement? If it doesn't exist or you can't recall it, it's time to take another look. A mission statement can be a focal point for learning. It can guide all school activities, and even assist you in choosing the right people to join your staff.

"The clearer a school community is about its mission, the more successful it can be," Cile Chavez , Ed.D., told Education World. "A mission can serve as a centerpiece for faculty, staff, and students. It can serve as a framework for making decisions and for building relationships. Powerful missions give people a since of purpose and passion. Every school should crisply articulate a mission statement and walk the talk ."

A former Colorado superintendent and nationally known speaker and consultant, Chavez believes not only that every district should have a mission statement, but that it should be brief and easy to state and remember.

"An effective mission statement is certainly one that has meaning to the whole school community," says Chavez. "It should inspire! A mission statement should clearly communicate what has heart and meaning within the school or district."

Some of Chavez's favorite missions include "our actions will result in student greater self-esteem and performance" and "to inspire every student to think, to learn, to achieve, and to care." According to Chavez, the first step an administrator should take in creating a powerful mission statement like those is to give careful thought to what he or she believes about mission statements and how they can serve.

"It is important to create what I call felt need ," she explained. "Help people discover how a clear, compelling mission statement can serve to improve teaching and learning. Get people to examine mission statements and explore the possibilities. Simply have conversations on the power and promise of a mission. Guide the thinking on the power of language in capturing the culture of the school; what will best capture our intentions of showing up each and every day. Model enthusiasm for the possibilities that result from an inspiring mission."

MISSIONS ARE CRITICAL

Suzanne Bond, an associate professor in educational leadership at Seattle Pacific University in Seattle, Washington, has helped to facilitate the development of mission statements at both the school and district level. A former high school teacher, principal, and superintendent, she has generated a process for creating mission statements that provides guidelines and examples.

"Participants worked in small groups to come up with their ideas for the statements meeting these guidelines," Bond explained. "The possible mission statements were then taken out to the entire staff (faculty and classified staff) for their input and ideas."

To establish a meaningful mission statement, follow Suzanne Bond's guidelines:

The mission statement is one thing that should be known by in the organization. You should be able to go up to any individual in the organization and he or she should be able to recite the mission to you.

It is a clear and concise expression of the school or district's purpose and function. It serves to focus all of the organization's attention and to concentrate its energies on one common purpose.

The mission statement is the keystone on which the entire strategic plan depends.

It should always be brief, so that it can be remembered.

It acknowledges reality and also aspires to the ideal. This is very important -- high expectations must be evident.

It is not just a description of the status quo, but rather a bold declaration of what the organization will be.

The mission statement must represent a commitment to the special distinctiveness, the uniqueness, the originality that sets the organization apart from others like it.

"Dedicated to knowledge, character, and creativity," "working together with a heart for kids," and "the best place on Earth to educate kids" are a few samples of mission statements that Bond feels "work." While some say these are "mottos" and insist on a longer, more extensive "mission statement," Bond argues that if it can't be remembered by everyone, the purpose is defeated.

ACCEPTING THE MISSION

After a mission is established, the challenge of implementing it remains. "The best way to make a mission statement the focal point of a school is to have everyone involved in creating it, including the community, and then put it everywhere -- on banners, letterhead, newsletters, seat cushions," explained Bond. "Don't rush the process; make sure everyone in the organization and community has had the opportunity to be involved in creating the purpose statement."

Cile Chavez recommends inviting suggestions as to how implementation of the statement can be done in an authentic, realistic manner. For example, faculty members might offer questions that the principal can use in the interviewing process to find candidates who are a good match for the school and its mission.

"Above all, talk about it!" advises Chavez. "Host conversations whenever and where ever you can that are centered on the meaning of the mission statement. Reference it when you hire people, and hold people accountable. Constantly ask how we can breathe life into the mission. What do we do that says we consistently live out the mission? In what ways -- practices, policies, and procedures -- do we violate the mission?"

A mission statement should be institutionalized and placed as part of the teacher evaluation system, Chavez adds. Parents should be aware of the mission, and administrators should seek their support and ideas for enhancing the essence of it. To evaluate the success of the mission statement, it is essential to ask for evidence that the mission is being followed.

" Engage the school community for ideas in terms of measurement," Chavez recommends. "I think at the end of each year students, faculty, and staff should engage in a meaningful dialogue about how the mission has served. Perhaps refinement will be necessary. The bottom line is that the mission should inspire people to create a better future individually and as a community."

"BE YOUR BEST AND NOTHING LESS"

A change in leadership prompted a recent review of Laguna Elementary School's mission and vision statements, which had not been re-examined since 1997. Dr. Kathleen Root spent most of her first year as principal of the school listening to the concerns of faculty and parents in Scottsdale, Arizona. She learned what those individuals were passionate about, how they worked with each other, and what the stakeholders valued.

"During the last faculty meeting held the day after students left in May 2004, I met with my staff for four hours," she recalled. "We talked about the strengths and needs of our school, and we began to develop a list. I spent my summer reviewing district policies, school procedures, student and parent handbooks, and any data we had available on the school. At the first faculty meeting upon our return (prior to the start of the school year), I met with the staff again. Armed with data and the faculty's initial list, we narrowed down the list to core areas that we wanted to address over the next few years."

Root then held up the new mission statement and posed the question, "Does this reflect what we are about and where we want to go?" Staff members were encouraged to address the question in their grade-level meetings, send their input to committee representatives, and be prepared to discuss the statement at every faculty meeting for the school year. Root met with PTO members and began the same process.

"I was connected with a community member from SRP, our local utility company, who agreed to host and facilitate a series of meetings with a team of parents, staff, and community members," Root stated. "We met four times during the school year for day-long brainstorming. Each time we would present our work to the PTO and staff for feedback. We worked this process all year long. A clear mission, vision, philosophy statement was developed and approved by faculty, PTO, and the site-based leadership team."

Twenty-five people formed a core group of participants who were tasked with creating the new mission statement for the school, with over 200 people providing feedback from various groups. The group included eight staff members (certified and classified), twelve parents, three community members, one administrator, and occasionally two district members.

"People were chosen for their expertise, differing perspectives, differing roles in the community, and desire to participate," said Root. "I was looking for a wide range of participants who were uniquely different from each other."

The process resulted in a motto for Laguna Elementary School -- "Be your best and nothing less!" -- and a new mission statement that reads, "To provide each student with the highest quality education and create a passion for learning, empowering each student to contribute positively to our global community." To guide future efforts, a vision statement was designed as well.

To be the best elementary school in Arizona by invigorating each classroom environment by reducing the student to adult ratio to 15:1. continually investing in the hiring and retaining of highly educated and trained staff who teach effectively and passionately. challenging students to stretch beyond one year's growth. being an integral part of the community. having each family feel directly connected and appreciated. providing exceptional learning opportunities that are enhanced by state-of-the-art technology, community resources, and support.

MISSION POSSIBLE

"What we like best about our mission and vision is it identifies clearly what we are about and what we want to be," Root reported. "The mission statement explains why we are an entity and why we are in business. The vision statement will be used to guide us in our decision-making when creating and working toward improvement goals."

Making a Mission

Having completed a year-long process to develop an effective mission statement for Laguna Elementary, Katie Root offers other administrators who are embarking on the journey this advice

Always include all of your stakeholders and provide opportunities for continuous feedback during the process.

Find an outside place to hold meetings and, if possible, have a neutral facilitator work with the core group. (That allows an administrator to be a part of the group instead of the leader of the group and encourages quieter people to participate openly.)

Don't give up. It is a long -- and sometimes uncomfortable - process, but it is well worth the effort.

Both statements will help the school maintain its focus and unite the school community in a common purpose, Root said, adding, "This was an incredible experience. I feel like everyone is focused and working toward common goals -- we are working together!"

At Columbiana (Alabama) Middle School , cats are more than furry creatures with a fondness for mice. "CATS" is an acronym used to remember the school's mission statement -- "Citizenship and Academics Target Success." That core mission is supported by four belief statements:

Student learning is the chief priority for the school. All students can learn. Continuous improvement promotes life-long learners and productive citizens. The community shares the responsibility for furthering the school's mission in a safe, comfortable environment.

"This statement drives the way that we teach and learn, the way we implement our professional development, and our day-to-day operations in our school," explained David Dixon, the school's principal. "Our students are becoming positive, well-rounded individuals who we feel will have a positive impact on our society."

Reviewing the mission statement is an annual collaborative effort of faculty, staff, administration, students, parents, and business and community leaders in the area. Dixon told Education World, "As the dynamics of our community change, we feel that we must always examine our mission, beliefs, and goals and make adaptations when necessary."

EW Lesson Plans

EW Professional Development

Ew worksheets.

top education news, lesson ideas, teaching tips and more!

No thanks, I don't need to stay current on what works in education!

SchoolNotes.com
The Educator's Network

Society for Public Health Education

Society for public health education utility menu shop resources donate login join donate linkedin twitter facebook instagram youtube search membership maximize your membership get involved communities of practice volunteer board of trustees nominations volunteer committees emerging volunteers gift-a-grad membership types & fees students collegiate champions brigham young university collegiate champions lifetime membership affiliate organization membership sophe chapters establishing a new sophe chapter chapter appreciation month region i chapters sophe region ii chapters sophe region iii chapters faces of health education bree bode shelby flores-thorpe antonio j. gardner brandon horton angela kroeze-visser karl larson alyssa lederer karen mancera-cuevas nandi marshall jonah neville nicole parkison laverne d. partlow tiffany thigpen carla valdez professional development awards, fellowships, internships & scholarships internship program past sophe awardees career hub professional ethics center for online resources & education core tutorials professional preparation teacher preparation resources advocacy in action course ches exam prep hes practice analysis iii uplifts leadership course public health workforce: step-up pipelines step-up pipelines program alumni resources what is a health education specialist areas of responsibilities, competencies of health education specialists conferences & events 2025 annual conference registration call for abstracts schedule at a glance hotel & attractions national case study competition in health education sophe’s 26th annual advocacy summit call for abstracts registration schedule at a glance travel & hotel plenary speakers exhibitor & sponsor prospectus national health education week about nhew past conferences 2024 annual conference plenary speakers schedule at a glance pre-conference workshops exhibitor, sponsor & advertising prospectus national case study competition in health education hotel, travel & attractions faqs publications journals health education & behavior current issue editorial board health promotion practice current issue editorial board pedagogy in health promotion current issue editorial board books focus areas arthritis back to school black history month child & adolescent health chronic conditions heart conditions stroke climate & health coronavirus|covid-19 what you can do resources health equity health equity & anti-racism recommendations health equity toolkit hispanic heritage month injury emerging issues in injury prevention success stories in health education & injury prevention behavioral science violence/intentional injury program planning community based participatory research resource centers monkeypox men’s health mental health awareness national health observances nutrition, obesity & physical activity nutrition tips on shopping at farmers markets: get more fresh produce in your diet farmer’s markets september is fruits & veggies more matters physical activity routes to destinations parks & recreation opioids: an epidemic health education resources for opioid prevention & treatment partnering 4 health success stories racial & ethnic approaches to community health reach urban communities reach rural areas reach sustainability school health walk & bike to school suicide prevention tobacco vaccinations women’s health advocacy alerts, briefs & news policy briefs resolutions, testimony and comments comments resolutions testimony legislative tracker action alert sign up coalitions advocacy initiative fund about mission, vision & values strategic plan 2021-2025 sophe bylaws annual report board of trustees staff history sophe snapshot: legacy in 70 global health competencies home > about > mission, vision & values home > about > mission, vision & values our mission.

Supporting leaders in health education and promotion to advance healthy and equitable communities across the globe.

A healthy world through health education.

Responding to the needs of its members
Delivering quality products and services
Demonstrating integrity, accountability and transparency
Promoting teamwork and collaboration
Embracing diversity
Respecting organizational tradition while encouraging innovation
Mission, Vision & Values
Strategic Plan 2021-2025
SOPHE Bylaws
Board of Trustees
Annual Report

IMAGES

Mission Statement for Education Industry
Mission Statement for Education Industry
Mission & Vision
Mission Statement
Mission Statement
Our Catholic High School Mission Statement in Paramus, NJ

VIDEO

Clinton Township Parks and Rec. Summer Camp Meeting Part 1
February 3, 2015 Board Meeting Osceola School District

COMMENTS

79 Examples of School Vision and Mission Statements
The most common words in school vision and mission statements are: 1. Christian 2. Community 3. Safe 4. Excellence 5. Potential 6. Skills 7. Global 8. Prepare 9. Achieve 10. Life-long. ... Our Mission is to provide high quality education and childcare in a safe, respectful and inclusive environment that builds a foundation for life-long ...
Mission Statement for Education Industry
A mission statement in education serves as a guiding star, delineating the core purpose, objectives, and values of an educational institution. It provides direction to the administration, faculty, students, and parents, forming the backbone of the institution's culture and ethos. The mission statement is the institution's pledge to its ...
A School's Vision and Mission Statements
Missions and visions. The more I thought about it—then and since—the universal mission of every school is to teach. Academics, social skills, creative thinking, healthy living, good choices, and much more. We can embellish the concept of teaching with fancy words that signify academic achievement, physical growth, personal development ...
Examining Your School's Mission and Vision Statements
5 Steps to Improve Smart Graffiti Mission Statements. 1. Conduct a thorough audit of the action words: The creators often have well-meaning lofty goals in crafting a mission and pack on the most ambitious educational jargon. In the reality of day-to-day instruction, there may not be any evidence that these goals or practices are happening.
Crafting Effective Mission Statements for Schools: A Comprehensive Guide
These mission statements reflect the goals and aspirations of a high school education, emphasizing the importance of academic excellence, personal growth, and preparing students for future success. Crafting a compelling mission statement is a powerful way to communicate the values and goals of your school.
How to Write School Mission and Vision Statements
A vision statement, on the other hand, looks forward to the future. Oftentimes, a mission statement will begin with a phrase like "[School name] is…" while a vision statement might begin with "[School name] will be known for…" In other words, a mission statement is largely a definition of the school, answering questions like:
How to Make Mission Matter at Your School
Below are implications from our work regarding how to make a mission a powerful force for teaching, learning, and change. 1) Does your school have a unified idea of your mission? When school mission statements are clearly stated, focused, and understood by school stakeholders, they have the power to unify people around a common idea.
How to Write a Powerful Teacher-Leader Mission Statement of Education
Step 4: Drafting Your Mission Statement of Education. Now's the time to put pen to paper, or fingers to keyboard. Keep it concise, yet impactful. Clearly state your purpose, values, and vision. Use language that resonates with your personal style and passion for education. Ensure that your mission statement serves as a guiding force ...
Mission and Vision
Mission and Vision. A mission statement, or simply a mission, is a public declaration that schools or other educational organizations use to describe their founding purpose and major organizational commitments—i.e., what they do and why they do it. A mission statement may describe a school's day-to-day operational objectives, its ...
Do You Know Your School's Vision? Tips on Making a Meaningful Mission
Simply put, words have power. And a powerful vision statement is one that gives everyone in the organization a vivid sense of purpose in the work they do. This is why, in my view, any school or ...
Vision and Mission
Mission statement for New York City Public Schools. ... how the DOE uses an educational strategy that embraces students' identities called culturally responsive-sustaining education or CR-SE, and how diversity can be a source of knowledge. Big Apple Awards. The Big Apple Awards is a citywide recognition program celebrating New York City ...
100 Vision and Mission Statements for Classrooms
Effective Communicators: "Our vision is to empower students to become confident communicators, expressing their thoughts and ideas skillfully in the classroom.". Lifelong Learners: "We aspire to create a passion for learning that extends beyond the classroom and develops into a lifelong love.". 3.
Our Mission, Vision, & Values
Our vision is a great public school for every student. Our Mission. Our mission is to advocate for education professionals and to unite our members and the nation to fulfill the promise of public education to prepare every student to succeed in a diverse and interdependent world. Our Core Values. These principles guide our work and define our ...
Creating a School Mission Statement in 2024 with Examples
Key Takeaways. Purpose and Clarity: Emphasize the school's purpose, focusing on simplicity and clarity to unite students, staff, and parents. Impact and Resonance: Aim for a mission statement that inspires and unites the school community, fostering a positive and cohesive environment. Crafting Approach: Avoid complex jargon, clearly differentiate the mission from vision and values, and ...
School Mission Statements: The 2021 Guide
Too often mission statements exist only on paper rather than being a lived philosophy and commitment to the ongoing development of an effective education institution." This means school mission statements have serious implications for the priorities and goals of your school, including how money, time, and other resources are allocated.
The truth about school mission statements
For educators and administrators: Invite your entire community — staff, faculty, parents, and students — to create or revisit your school's mission statement. Make sure the mission statement addresses the unique needs and goals of your school. Look at how your school's values are reflected in day-to-day practice.
Mission Statement Definition
The term mission statement is often used interchangeably with vision statement. While some educators and schools may loosely define the two terms, or even blur the traditional lines that have separated them, there appears to be general agreement in the education community on the major distinctions between a "mission" and a "vision."
Mission of the U.S. Department of Education
Congress established the U.S. Department of Education (ED) on May 4, 1980, in the Department of Education Organization Act (Public Law 96-88 of October 1979). Under this law, ED's mission is to: Increase the accountability of Federal education programs to the President, the Congress, and the public. ED's mission is to promote student ...
Mission Statement for Schools
27. "To provide a comprehensive educational experience that fosters intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, community involvement, and respect for diversity.". 28. "Our mission is to inspire students to strive for excellence and to nurture their unique abilities in a safe and supportive environment.". 29.
Mission Statements
On this page: Graduate School of Education Mission and Vision Office of Academic Affairs Mission Graduate School of Education Mission and Vision Our Vision: We envision a world where all learners are prepared to thrive in a dynamic future. Our Mission: We produce groundbreaking research, model programs and exceptional leaders to achieve accessible, equitable and effective education for all ...
Mission Statement Examples: Academic and Personal
Examine mission statement examples for academics or individuals to assist in forming your own. Dictionary ... For students in school or getting ready to go to move on to higher education, a strong mission statement is helpful not just on a resume or application, but to help you focus on what you hope to achieve with your education. ...
Mission Statements: Where Is Your School Going?
Mountain Gap Middle School Mission Statement. The mission of Mountain Gap Middle School is to provide each student a diverse education in a safe, supportive environment that promotes self-discipline, motivation, and excellence in learning. The Mountain Gap team joins the parents and community to assist the students in developing skills to ...
Mission Statement, Higher Education
George Keller (1983), in his seminal book on strategic planning in higher education, argued that mission statements are a necessary part of an institution's strategic-planning process. Others have pointed to the value of mission statements in articulating a "vision" for the institution's future (Martin 1985).
State Your Mission: Creating Mission Statements that Work
A mission statement can be a focal point for learning. It can guide all school activities, and even assist you in choosing the right people to join your staff. "The clearer a school community is about its mission, the more successful it can be," Cile Chavez, Ed.D., told Education World. "A mission can serve as a centerpiece for faculty, staff ...
PDF FROM THE T Mission and Vision in Education
Absent crit-ical examination, however, there may be precious little difference between vision and delusion, if by "statements of vision" we mean ver-bal concatenations mistaken for causal analyses. As generally conceived, vision statements provide the impetus for missions. And mission statements provide the targets for goal state-ments.
Mission, Vision & Values
Our Mission. Supporting leaders in health education and promotion to advance healthy and equitable communities across the globe. Our Vision. A healthy world through health education. Our Values. Responding to the needs of its members; Delivering quality products and services; Demonstrating integrity, accountability and transparency
OCTAE Functional Statements
OCTAE Functional Statements - Introduction. I. MISSION AND RESPONSIBILITIES. The Assistant Secretary for Career, Technical, and Adult Education (Assistant Secretary) serves as the principal adviser to the Secretary on Departmental matters related to high school, career technical and adult education and life long learning as well as community colleges, workforce and economic development.