Superintendent Roundtables

The Superintendent Roundtable is an engaging, small-group discussion hosted by Superintendent Dr. Theresa Williams for members of community or industry groups. 

The discussions include:

• a state of the district update;
• new district initiatives; 
• workforce development and partnership opportunities; and
• a two-way conversation about supporting Plano ISD students, staff and initiatives.

Common Themes across Meetings

Several common themes emerged across the seven Superintendent Roundtable meetings:

• Emphasis on Soft Skills: Attendees consistently highlighted the importance of developing soft skills like interpersonal communication, resilience, critical thinking and adaptability, alongside technical expertise.
• Industry Exposure and Partnerships: There were frequent suggestions to provide more visibility into different career paths, compensation and industry trends. Attendees recommended leveraging partnerships, internships and mentorship opportunities to connect students with professionals and real-world experiences.
• Early Career Exploration: Many attendees advocated for introducing students to various career paths, including skilled trades, at an earlier age to change perceptions and inform their choices.
• Curriculum Enhancements: Attendees proposed incorporating cross-disciplinary studies, capstone projects, industry certifications and emerging technologies like AI into the curriculum to better prepare students for the future workforce.
• Addressing Disparities: Community leaders emphasized the need to address disparities in discipline and testing for children of color and ensure equitable access to educational opportunities.
• Entrepreneurial Mindset: Several attendees stressed the importance of fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, critical thinking and adaptability to navigate non-linear career pathways and changing industry landscapes. 

September 27, 2023: 2022 Bond Task Force and Other Community Members

The meeting with the 2022 Bond Task Force and community members focused on gathering feedback on areas of interest and potential impact on the Plano community. Attendees expressed interest in the IT and Collegiate Academy programs, recognizing their potential to prepare students for high-paying jobs. There was a call to explore cybersecurity offerings and educate parents about high school pathways that can lead to earlier success without incurring significant college debt.

Suggestions were made to revive initiatives like Key Communicators to share program offerings and educational pathways through PTAs and campus newsletters. Attendees also recommended hosting educational workshops at churches and schools to reach diverse communities and promote educational opportunities.

October 17, 2023: Healthcare Industry Leaders

The healthcare industry session highlighted the need for trained technicians in areas such as surgical, radiology, imaging and respiratory care. Attendees emphasized the importance of developing soft skills like interpersonal communication, resilience and empathy alongside technical expertise. They suggested providing more visibility into healthcare careers and compensation to attract students.

Beyond technology, attendees recommended helping students develop skills like email writing, typing, critical thinking, communication, social interaction,m and de-escalation techniques. There were also suggestions to leverage partnerships, such as inviting healthcare professionals to mentor students and provide hands-on experiences.

November 29, 2023: Financial Industry Leaders

During the financial industry session, attendees recommended incorporating cross-disciplinary studies, research, technical writing, project management and soft skills development, especially written and verbal communication, into the curriculum. They discussed the breadth of career paths within the financial industry, with not all being finance related. They expressed interest in being in front of students, with opportunities to visit schools/classrooms.

February 1, 2024: Community Organizations and Local Leaders

Community leaders and organizations stressed the importance of addressing disparities in discipline and testing for children of color. They suggested establishing student internships, partnerships and sponsorships to support youth entrepreneurship programs. They emphasized the need for adaptability, interpersonal skills and structured processes to help students navigate career pathways.

March 6, 2024: Business Development Leaders

Business development leaders emphasized the need for adaptability, interpersonal skills and structured processes to help students make informed career choices. They recommended exploring resources like Mark C. Perna’s work to connect students with their passions systematically.

Attendees also highlighted the district’s strengths, such as the quality of life in the Plano area, safe community, excellent schools and a broad range of educational services. They suggested not overlooking special education and the importance of diversity. Additionally, they praised the district’s CTE options, student talent pool and pipeline from school to work.

April 4, 2024: STEM Industry Leaders

STEM industry leaders proposed incorporating thematic capstone projects, industry certifications (e.g., CAD, JAVA) and critical thinking skills. They discussed the role of AI as a tool to enhance problem-solving capabilities while emphasizing the importance of human reasoning and ethical considerations.

Attendees also recommended providing opportunities for professionals to visit classrooms and mentor students, as well as exploring partnerships with smaller businesses. They advocated for developing adaptability, paying attention to growing fields and examining non-linear career pathways.

May 8, 2024: Architecture & Construction Industry Leaders

In the architecture and construction session, attendees advocated for changing the perception of skilled trades and introducing students to these career paths earlier. They highlighted the need for industry-standard tools, platforms, and certifications (e.g., AutoDesk, OSHA) and emphasized the importance of entrepreneurial attitudes and critical thinking.

Attendees also discussed the role of AI in transforming the architecture industry, using efficiencies, generating options and expediting upfront work. They suggested connecting students to industry organizations and providing opportunities to translate between design and construction.