Civil Municipal Magazine - Nov 2023

240 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 11 any endeavor that they choose. Our philosophy is: we want our kids to figure out what it is they love and then help them discover ways they can be successful adults in that realm.” “In 2022, we adopted a strategic plan that’s based on five core values,” Bearden continues. “We involved every member of the school community – teachers, custodians, bus drivers, administrators, coaches – anyone who works for the district had an opportunity to participate. We had community meetings with students and parents and we developed our strategic plan from those meetings. Each one of our goals in the strategic plan is connected to one or more of those core values. It’s been a really good platform for us to drive positive change and growth. Outlining the its core values, Bearden states that the school district rests on the pillars of equity of access in a diverse and inclusive environment, a foundation of relationship building putting the child first in decision- Looking for loyal, hardworking office talent? Express Employment Professionals attracts people like Desiree Rodriquez. 2021 Express Employee of the Year Finalist and $3,000 Award Winner Desiree joined Express and West Ottawa Public Schools in 2013. As a single mom at the time, she was looking for a career that provided her summers off to raise her 3 and 5 year old boys. Desiree returned each school year because Express offered her great benefits, including health, dental, and vision along with holiday and vacation pay. In 2021, Desiree became a permanent employee of West Ottawa Public Schools as an HR assistant. We at Express have loved watching her boys grow up! Thank you WOPS for providing these opportunities to our associates. 660 Chicago Drive, Ste 20. Holland, MI 49423 (616) 499-2199 ExpressProsLakeshore.com