Midland Public Schools invites community input on long-term strategic plan

Midland Public Schools (MPS) is inviting community members to help shape the district’s future through a new strategic planning process designed to guide its direction over the next five to 10 years.

The process will establish clear goals, objectives, and measures to track progress across academics, facilities, and community engagement. A key part of the effort is developing a “portrait of a graduate” — a shared vision that describes the knowledge, skills, and qualities MPS students should possess upon graduation.                  

Information gathered during the process will also inform future facility plans, ensuring that district improvements align with educational goals and meet the needs of students in years to come.

“The strategic planning process is an opportunity to ensure our academic and organizational goals best serve our students and prepare them for success in a changing world,” says MPS Board of Education President Phil Rausch. “These outcomes, whether achieved in the classroom or through capital projects, will ultimately all focus on the needs of current and future MPS students.”

To ensure broad community input, the district is offering both in-person and virtual ways for residents to participate.

Digital Survey

A community survey is available through Nov. 25, 2025, for parents, guardians, and other community members online. A separate survey and in-person engagement opportunities will be offered for students.

In-Person Listening Sessions

MPS will host a series of one-hour listening sessions to gather input. Community sessions are open to all residents, while parent and guardian sessions are limited to parents and guardians of students currently enrolled in the district. School families may attend a session at any building, regardless of their assigned school.

Each session is capped at 50 attendees to ensure every voice is heard. Registration is required, and additional sessions may be added based on demand.

Community Listening Sessions

• Wednesday, Nov. 5, 6–7 p.m. — MPS Administration Center, 600 E. Carpenter St.
  
• Wednesday, Nov. 12, 12–1 p.m. — Central Auditorium (2nd floor), 305 E. Reardon St.
  
• Thursday, Nov. 20, 6–7 p.m. — MPS Administration Center, 600 E. Carpenter St.
  
• Wednesday, Dec. 3, 8–9 a.m. — MPS Administration Center, 600 E. Carpenter St.
  

Parent/Guardian Listening Sessions

• Thursday, Nov. 6, 10–11 a.m. — Central Auditorium (2nd floor), 305 E. Reardon St.
  
• Wednesday, Nov. 19, 6–7 p.m. — Northeast Middle School Little Theatre, 1305 E. Sugnet Road
  
• Tuesday, Nov. 25, 6–7 p.m. — Siebert Elementary Media Center, 5700 Siebert St.
  
• Wednesday, Dec. 3, 5–6 p.m. — Central Park Elementary Media Center, 1400 Rodd St.
  
• Wednesday, Dec. 3, 7–8 p.m. — Midland High School Media Center, 1301 Eastlawn Drive
  

Community members can register to attend by visiting the “Public Input Opportunities” section online or by calling 989-923-5026.