As an independent state educational agency governed by its own Board of Trustees, NCSD is entering an important new chapter focused on strengthening educational outcomes, advancing language-rich learning environments, and building a sustainable vision for the future.
This partnership will bring together school leadership, staff, students, families, alumni, and community stakeholders through a comprehensive engagement process that ensures community voices help shape the school’s strategic direction.
A Message from NCSD Leadership
“Our strategic plan will be shaped by the people who know our school best—our students, families, staff, alumni, and stakeholders. Your voices matter, and this plan will be built through meaningful engagement that reflects the true needs of our students and community.”
— Dr. Kristin Todd, Superintendent, North Carolina School for the Deaf
A Message from Innivee Strategies
“Strong strategic plans begin with listening. We are honored to partner with NCSD to facilitate a process that centers community voices, builds trust, and creates a roadmap for the future that reflects the priorities of those most connected to the school.”
— Davin Searls, Consultant, Innivee Strategies
Community Engagement Built for Everyone
Beginning in Fall 2026, the strategic planning process will include multiple opportunities for participation across the NCSD community, including:
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- Community surveys available in ASL, English, and Spanish
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- Focus groups with key stakeholder groups
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- Community conversations and listening sessions
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- Research and analysis in partnership with Western Carolina University
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- Findings summarized into a strategic planning report that will guide future priorities
Accessibility is foundational to this process. Engagement opportunities will be designed to ensure meaningful participation across language preferences, communication styles, and community perspectives.
Why Community Engagement Matters
Effective strategic planning begins with listening. The NCSD Strategic Planning process is designed to create meaningful opportunities for participation across the school community. Through surveys, focus groups, and community conversations, students, families, staff, alumni, and stakeholders will have opportunities to share perspectives that help guide future priorities.
By creating an inclusive engagement process available in ASL, English, and Spanish, NCSD aims to ensure every voice has the opportunity to contribute. These insights will help shape a strategic plan that reflects community values while supporting long-term educational excellence and organizational growth.
About the Partnership
The strategic planning initiative brings together three organizations with a shared commitment to strengthening educational outcomes and community engagement:
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- North Carolina School for the Deaf
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- Innivee Strategies
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- Western Carolina University
Together, these partners will work to create a strategic plan that reflects community priorities while supporting long-term organizational growth and student success.
Learn More
Community engagement opportunities will be announced as they become available.
To learn more about the strategic planning initiative, visit:
North Carolina School for the Deaf
For questions regarding the strategic planning process, contact:
Innivee Strategies
[email protected]
https://inniveestrategies.com
