Strategic Plan 2026-2029
Enter to Learn, Exit to Lead 2.0
We're pleased to present the FRCS Strategic Plan for 2026–2029, a roadmap that will guide how our district improves and grows in the years ahead. Developing this plan has been a key priority for Executive Director Toby N. Romer since he began his work at FRCS, and we are proud to share that it was recently approved by our Board of Trustees.
One of the earliest charter schools founded in Massachusetts, FRCS has evolved tremendously over the past 28 years. This plan builds on the strong foundation created by our students, families, and staff and charts a path toward our next chapter — becoming one of the top performing school districts in our region.
At its core, the plan strengthens our commitment to our mission: To provide students with a challenging academic program to prepare them for college and to serve as leaders in their communities.
It is our promise to truly live our motto: Enter to Learn, Exit to Lead.
Our Shared Values
Our plan is grounded in the principles that define who we are as a community:
- Teamwork
- Transparent Communication
- Growth
- Diversity & Equity
- Respect
- Honesty & Integrity
Our Strategic Priorities
Between 2026 and 2029, our work will focus on four key areas. Together, these priorities position FRCS to become one of the top performing school districts in our region while remaining inclusive, affirming, and student-centered.
Academic Performance and Growth
Knowing what our students are capable of, our first priority is accelerating achievement for every learner.
Key focus areas include:
- Increasing proficiency rates on MCAS, MAP, and reading assessments
- Ensuring strong growth for our lowest performing groups
- Aligning teaching and learning to our Instructional Vision and best practices
- Using data and collaborative teams to guide continuous improvement
What This Means for Your Child
Your child will experience rigorous, engaging instruction that is aligned across classrooms and grounded in best practices. Teachers will regularly use data to understand strengths, respond to needs, and ensure every student is making meaningful progress — especially those who need extra support or additional challenge.
Culture and Community
We are committed to fostering a truly inclusive, affirming, and diverse environment for every member of our community.
Key focus areas include:
- Recruiting and retaining highly qualified, diverse educators
- Increasing retention of students and families
- Expanding students’ sense of belonging
- Strengthening traditions, activities, and programs that engage students
What This Means for Your Child
Your child will learn in a school where they are known, valued, and supported. We are strengthening belonging, expanding activities and traditions, and building a diverse team of educators so every student can see themselves reflected in our community.
Highly Effective and Aligned Leadership
At every level, leadership matters. FRCS leaders prioritize transparency, collaboration, and high expectations while supporting our educators and staff.
Key focus areas include:
- Defining and implementing strong communication practices
- Aligning to our evaluation system and Instructional Vision
- Promoting collaboration and high expectations
- Strengthening engagement among trustees, district leaders, and school leaders
What This Means for Your Child
Your child’s school will be led by teams who communicate clearly, work collaboratively, and hold high expectations for success. Leaders will focus on supporting teachers and staff so students receive consistent, high-quality experiences across grade levels.
Integrated Systems and Operational Excellence
High performance requires strong, student-centered systems behind the scenes. This priority ensures our operations match our aspirations.
Key focus areas include:
- Developing a clear vision for district operations aligned to FRCS values
- Ensuring teams have the data they need to perform their roles effectively
- Building seamless communication across departments
- Maintaining accessible, high-quality facilities for students and staff
What This Means for Your Child
Behind every great classroom experience are strong systems. From communication to facilities, we are improving how our schools operate so your child benefits from smooth processes, responsive support, and safe, well-maintained learning environments.