PLAINFIELD, NJ – October 23, 2024 – On Tuesday, October 22, 2024, dozens of school superintendents and administrators from New Jersey gathered at the New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA) Conference in Atlantic City to hear from Plainfield Public Schools Superintendent Rashon K. Hasan, Ed. S., and his executive leadership team, including Chief of Student Services Elizabeth Filippatos, Ed. D., Chief of Marketing and Communications Vashon Lamont Hill, and Chief of Business Operations and Board Secretary Cameron E. Cox. The presentation, titled “Moving Plainfield Public Schools Forward, Part 2: Leveraging Strategic Priorities for Equity, Transparency, and Budgeting,” showcased the district’s commitment to enhancing educational outcomes through thoughtful planning and community engagement.
Superintendent Hasan opened the session by welcoming attendees and expressing gratitude to the Plainfield Board of Education for their ongoing support and hard work. He recognized Board President Hanae M. Wyatt, Vice President Victor L. Webb, Jr., and Commissioners Terence J. Johnson, Shonte Smith, and Sarah B. Virgo for their presence, highlighting the collaborative efforts that drive the district's initiatives.
He then dived into the district’s strategic efforts to implement improvements aligned with its five-year Strategic Plan. Emphasizing the importance of equity, he detailed how Plainfield Public Schools has been dedicated to creating programs and experiences that ensure equitable access for all students and staff.
“By focusing on our strategic priorities through the lens of equity, we can create meaningful programs that resonate with our community and foster success for every student,” said Superintendent Hasan.
Elizabeth Filippatos shared insights on the key areas identified by the community that the district should prioritize: finance, community connection, targeted student learning, and fostering a welcoming and encouraging climate for all.
As Superintendent Hasan discussed the district’s 2024-25 Goals and Key Indicators, he highlighted Plainfield Public Schools 4Es Model — Enrollment, Enlistment, Employment, or Entrepreneurship. He explained that every student enrolled in Plainfield Public Schools is placed on a path aligned with one of these four outcomes, ensuring a comprehensive approach to student success.
Cameron E. Cox outlined the process for evaluating the academic return on investment from the previous year. He elaborated on the district’s fiscal investments, including renovations to Hub Stine Sports Complex and Plainfield High School’s auditorium, construction of an e-Sports arena and black box theater, and development of a football and soccer field at the Maxson Middle School and Charles and Anna Booker Elementary School Complex. Additionally, he highlighted the establishment of sensory playgrounds at four elementary schools and the creation of three Career and Technical Education (CTE) classroom spaces.
“Each of these changes and upgrades is designed to cultivate an enriching environment that supports our students' growth,” Cox stated.
Throughout the presentation, Superintendent Hasan emphasized the importance of listening to the opinions and feedback of students, parents, and the school community. He quoted Board Commissioner Terence J. Johnson, stating, “Nothing for them, without them,” emphasizing the district's student-centered focus.
Concluding the presentation, Superintendent Hasan highlighted the invaluable partnerships Plainfield Public Schools has cultivated with various organizations. He noted that many partners contacted the district before implementing their initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to collaboration.
Dr. Melissa Simmons of Roselle remarked, “This is how Boards need to think; this is what the future truly looks like. An urban district should function in a way that allows the students and community to dictate what can be done.” She commended Plainfield Public Schools for mastering the art of moving a district forward.
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For more information on the Plainfield Public School District or this story, please contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at information@plainfield.k12.nj.us or by phone at, (908) 731-4442.