New Strategic Plan Focuses on Key Initiatives to Guide Ozark Schools over Next 5 Years

Excellence Drives Us, Tradition Unites Us!

That's the new motto the Ozark Board of Education approved Aug. 26 in the new Ozark School District Comprehensive School Improvement Plan for 2025-2030. 

Creating this strategic plan was months in the making, partnering with The Quality Coach, parents, staff, students and community members. 

“I’m excited to share with you the future direction of Ozark School District through our 2025-2030 Comprehensive School Improvement Plan,” Superintendent Dr. Lori Wilson said. “Together, we examined where we are, where we want to be, and how we can get there.”

School Board President Amber Bryant said extensive work went into the development of the plan, and she’s looking forward to seeing how it will shape the district’s future.

“I’m very proud of the hard work and dedication our staff has put into developing this strategic plan,” she said. “It reflects a clear vision for the future, with our students, staff and community at the center. We know this is just a starting point, but this plan gives us a strong foundation to build on.”

“I’m very proud of the hard work and dedication our staff has put into developing this strategic plan. It reflects a clear vision for the future, with our students, staff and community at the center. We know this is just a starting point, but this plan gives us a strong foundation to build on.”
- Amber Bryant, School Board President

Wilson said the heart of the plan is Portrait of a Graduate, which are nine traits that define an Ozark graduate: Critical thinker, empathetic, confident, responsible, flexible and adaptable, personally responsible - reliable, foundationally literate, collaborative, teachable, and resilient.

“These traits are now woven into everything we do, because our goal isn’t just academic success, but preparing students to thrive in life,” Wilson said. “Our core beliefs guide us: Putting people first, creating a culture of excellence, fostering strong connections, and ensuring success for every student. Our mission is clear — to foster connections, drive innovation, and create a supportive learning environment where each student can succeed.”

The plan focuses on four key initiatives that will guide the district over the next five years: Academic Excellence, Connections through Community and Communication, Operational Efficiency, and Leadership and Governance.

“Each of these pillars includes priority areas — from early childhood readiness, to
literacy and math mastery, to career preparation and leadership development,” Wilson said. “Together, they ensure that every student in Ozark Schools has the foundation, support, and
opportunities they need.”

Wilson said the new motto, however, sums it up best: Excellence Drives Us, Tradition Unites Us!

“This plan belongs to all of us,” she said. “Together, we will continue to invest in our students, our schools, and our community. Thank you for your support as we launch this next chapter for Ozark Schools.”

Find more details, along with the full CSIP, on our website - www.ozarktigers.org/strategicplan.