SPS Innovation Advisory Committee [INTERNAL ONLY, $1,000 Stipend], Salem Public Schools [SY 2025-2026]

Name

SPS Innovation Advisory Committee (SIAC)

Purpose

This advisory committee is being created to deeply inform the development of the district’s  2026-2029 strategic plan and 5-10 year innovation agenda. 

This new plan will be built on the strong foundation of the district’s 2023-26 strategic plan. The final plan will map out the district’s priorities, help to define how it allocates resources over the next 3 school years, and identify key initiatives that will position the Salem Public Schools for continued growth in innovation over the next decade.  The advisory committee will meet regularly (cadence and timing of meetings is TBD) from October 2025 to May 2026 to develop new ideas for the district, discuss stakeholder input, map out key elements of the Innovation agenda, and review drafts of the plan as it evolves.  

Please note that the Innovation Advisory Committee will generate ideas and provide input and feedback, but will not be a decision-making body. 

Responsibilities

The SPS Innovation Advisory Committee members will: 

• Participate in group learning to collectively understand and define “innovation” for the Salem Public Schools at all levels. 
• Support the design of stakeholder engagement to inform the district strategic plan and innovation agenda
• Review and discuss stakeholder feedback collected in multiple ways, including a collaboratively designed community survey, an open “Design Day,” and targeted focus groups. 
• Consult with their networks or community to gather additional input or questions that can be shared at or between meetings.
• Provide input and feedback, and pose questions on the draft plan as it is developed. 

Timeline

The SIAC will meet at least 8-10 times between October 2025 and May 2026. When possible, meetings will be held in person; others will be held on Zoom. 

The first meeting will be held in mid-October; the full schedule of meetings will be developed once the Committee is finalized to support the overall strategic planning process. 

Ideal SIAC Composition

Members will be selected to participate based on their experience, current position, and ability to reflect the varying needs and interests of the community. Specifically, we seek to identify a diverse team people who represent the following roles: 

• 1 principal
• 1 School Committee member
• 2 parents (elementary and secondary)
• 1 student
• 3 current SPS teachers (elementary, middle and secondary)
• 1 representative from SPS Central Office
• 1 representative of higher education 
• 2 members of the business community 

Member Expectations 

Members will be asked to commit up to four hours per month (from October 2025-May 2026) to this effort.  Members will be expected to: 

• Attend scheduled meetings regularly.

• Review meeting materials ahead of time so you are ready to participate.
• Share ideas, ask questions, and provide feedback.

• Keep confidential any sensitive information shared in or between meetings.
• Offer insights based on your research, expertise and experience.

• Share connections, resources, or opportunities when appropriate.
• Act as an ambassador for the committee’s work in your community.

Members who are selected and are eligible will receive a $1,000 stipend for their participation.

Additional information

For additional information about the SPS Innovation Advisory Committee, please contact Chelsea Banks at cbanks@salemk12.org.