Today, during the kick-off of Day 2 of its Enrollment Fair, the Gary Community School Corporation hosted a press conference to unveil a unified brand and summation of roles to be embraced by students, staff, parents and stakeholders titled “The Gary Way.”
“As a school community, we made the bold and exciting decision to fully unite our district not only in brand but in creed and action. The blue and orange colors and the Cougar mascot across the district symbolizes our unity,” said GCSC Manager Dr. Paige McNulty. “From day one, as children enter our District, they will be cougars. The practice of Pre K – 12 branding is common among neighboring districts and across the country. West Side Leadership Academy is our flagship high school with 2 middle schools, 5 elementary schools and 1 pre-K school that together lay the educational foundation.”
Chief Academic Officer Kim Bradley introduced the District’s vision and mission statements along with specific components of The Gary Way Plan.
“The Gary Community School corporation is embarking on a new day,” said Bradley “We are at a point of rebirth, and we are excited about the direction we are headed. Our students, teachers and the community will see the positive outcomes that this rebirth will bring.”
Bradley shared that the team worked with administrators, teachers, staff, students, parents and community stakeholders to gather input on the new vision and mission statements. A survey was then distributed for final selection.
Vision Statement:
"The Gary Community School Corporation prepares students for college and careers in a diverse, equitable, student centered environment."
Mission Statement:
“Doing what is best for students today, tomorrow and every day.”
The Gary Way Plan
“The Gary Way Plan serves as a way to codify our interactions, frame our decision making and serves as our guiding principles for every group that makes up our school community,” added Bradley.
These groups include District Administration, the building leaders, teachers, students, support staff, parents, guardians and community stakeholders.
The press conference was broadcast live on the District’s Facebook Page and included the introduction of the administrative team, an overview of the District-wide and school logos as well as a special appearance by mascot “Calvin the Cougar.”
McNulty acknowledged that making such significant changes in the District was done with great thought and consideration of Gary Schools alumni and the general community.
“We acknowledge that there were other high schools in Gary, and their memory will live on here at West Side through the development of Gary Schools Hall of Fame. Photos, memorabilia and alumni will be showcased for all of the community to see. We will share more details as this project takes form,” added McNulty. “Choosing logos and colors is really the easy part. The real work comes in embracing a new way of doing things that are best for children --THE GARY WAY!”
For more information about the Gary Way, enrollment, employment and volunteer opportunities at GCSC, visit garyschools.org.