About
Strategic Plan

Strategic Plan Initiatives

Strategic Plan for Palmer Trinity School

SECURING OUR BRIGHT FUTURE
( 2022 - 2027 )

Strategic Plan Vision Statement

In the Episcopal tradition of academic excellence and inclusive community, Palmer Trinity School commits to the following strategic priorities.

Curriculum

To design and implement educational programs – both local and international grounded in relevance that will shape individuals who reason independently and who act collaboratively to accomplish and resolve conflict.

Strategic Initiatives UPDATES

List of 8 frequently asked questions.

  • Reinforce independent learning and critical thinking in the light of Palmer Trinity’s Portrait of a Graduate and Guiding Principles.

    - As of November 2023

    Dedicated time for writing and aligning Course Outlines for greater clarity and continuity of course goals, learning activities and assessments, and learning outcomes.

    - As of February 2023

    1. Created the Launch Program for freshmen to support their transition to Upper School and develop the qualities in our Portrait of a Graduate.
    2. Facilitated Courageous Conversations on the 2022-2023 school year theme of RESET.

  • Promote the role of C.E.L.T. (Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching) and its initiatives to increase partnerships with other schools and within the PTS community.

    As of February 2023

    1. Made visits by Middle School Chairs and Academic Dean to our feeder schools. 
      • PTS hosted a Collaboration event with 5th & 6th grade teachers, curriculum directors on January 19th; Revitalizing partnerships that began before COVID.
    1. Include a focus on the work and role of CELT in each Professional Development meeting.

  • Dedicate time and opportunity for our faculty and administration to collaborate and design innovative and forward-thinking curricular pathways which promote critical thought and skills.

    - As of November 2023

    1. Added courses in Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Financial Literacy.
    2. Established the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Committee to discuss AI in the classroom.

    - As of February 2023

    1. Dedicated four Professional Days, monthly Collaboration Meetings, and six Late Starts to this goal, in addition to monthly Department and Academic Council meetings. 
    1. Expanded the time for Collaboration significantly during the Opening Week, Professional Days '22-'23.  
      1. Essential questions and models from innovative programs and leading educational organizations are provided in all meetings to guide and support collaboration.
      2. Accepted nine New Course Proposals for ‘23-’24 as of January 2023.
      3. Gathering momentum for exploration of a Leadership / Global / Entrepreneurial “Pathway” of coursework to serve PTS’ unique population.

  • Gather, analyze, and share available data to inform academic decisions.

    - As of November 2023

    1. Modification to our course offerings: 
      1. Modification of science course requirements in the Upper School to better serve a portion of the student community from Chemistry and Physics to Chemistry or Physics.
      2. Expansion of science electives, including Biomedical Science, Health Sciences, and Engineering Design.
    1. Continue to build newly established Contemporary Studies with an emerging Student Publications program of study, elevating current publications such as Yearbook (Raptor) and establishing new traditions with Falcon Flash and Perch.
    2. Regularly collect and review data on placement tests, “in-house” grades, and standardized testing to recognize and respond to trends in students’ success, challenges, and approaches to test-taking skills.
    3. Celebrate National Merit Semi Finalists and Silver Knight winners annually.


    - As of February 2023

    1. Made noteworthy changes to our course offerings and graduation requirements to suit the needs of our students
     Additions:
      1. Foundations level courses in English Grades 6-7; Math Grades 6-8
      2. Honors level courses in Grade 8: Math, English, and History; Science ‘23-’24;
      3. Foundations level courses in Grade 9: English, Math, and History
      4. Continue to build newly established Contemporary Studies; department with the addition of Upper School Leadership course, Marketing and Student Publications course;
      5. Modification of lab requirements in the Upper School to better serve the student community.
    1. Will host Rediker Training at PTS.
    2. Collecting and reviewing students' use of time on middle school semester assessments to help us address test-taking skills.

  • Maintain the School’s global presence and mindset.

    - As of November 2023

    1. Model United Nations remains the most active club on campus with more than 90 participants. PTS participates in local, regional, and international conferences.
    2. Led more than 40 domestic and international travel experiences on 5 continents, (‘22 - ’24)
    3. Hosted international exchange students from partner schools and programs from a number of countries including Australia, Spain, Peru, Germany, ‘22 - ’24.
    4. Accepted to the Duke of Edinburgh Award’s program.  The Award is a global framework for non-formal education and learning, which challenges young people to dream big, celebrate their achievements and make a difference in their world. Through developing transferable skills, increasing their fitness levels, cultivating a sense of adventure and volunteering in their community. The Award helps young people to find their purpose, passion and place in the world.
    5. Will host the Round Square Board of Directors and the Heads of School and Round Square Representatives from the America’s Region for a conference on campus February 27 - March 2, 2024.

    - As of February 2023

    1. Joined Global Education Benchmark Group (GEBG) as a Leading Partner School (2022-2024) through the G.E.B.G’s E.E. Ford Grant.
      • This two-year role allows 7 teachers to participate in virtual classes, 1 educator to serve on an advisory board, and 2 students to participate in virtual student-led classes. 
    1. Participation by (20) Students and (6) faculty in three Round Square travel events (England, Canada and Kenya).
    2. Model United Nations remains the most active Club on Campus with more than 90 participants. PTS participates and leads both locally and regional conferences.
    3. Round Square virtual conference on pollution led by 10 students with 200 students from 12 countries. 
    4. Proposing a course elective in diplomacy and international relations beginning ‘23-’24.
    5. Led 18 domestic and international travel experiences on 6 continents.
    6. Hosted Round Square exchange students at partner schools in Peru and Germany. 

  • Expand the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP) to encourage width and depth of course offerings.

    As of February 2023

    1. On-going, intentional monthly meeting with IB Steering Committee to design the expansion of the IB course offerings and schedule the faculty training.
    2. On-going support of our Second Cohort of IB students / Additional IB Course offerings in Business Management and Environmental Sciences.
    3. Adopted a more international interest in IB experience in the hiring process.
    4. Encouraging and allocating finances for faculty training in IB certification.
    5. Ongoing discussion about developing "pathways" of study within the IB curriculum focusing on Liberal Arts, Stem, and Business as a central focus.

  • Explore the feasibility of offering PTS courses online.

    As of February 2023

    Piloted three semester courses online, in Summer, 2022. After reflection and revision of course work and approach, we will offer two courses again in Summer, 2023 - Foundations in World Religion and Wellness.

  • Research and expand STEM-centered curricular offerings with a view toward building a state-of-the-art program.

    - As of November 2023

    1. Reviewed STEM-related pathways for students to advance in their STEM studies and reinstituted the summer offering (in-person) of Geometry.
    2. Updated/refurbished new Outdoor Classroom and 6th Grade Garden. 
    3. We will continue to review these PTS online courses.

    - As of February 2023

    1. Appointed two STEM Coordinators in 2022-2023.
    2. Constructed new STEM room in Building 3.
    3. Updated/refurbished new Outdoor Classroom.
    4. Adopting Project Lead the Way Biomedical Science course electives to offer a Pathway of course work for students interested in the related fields.   
    5. Received STEM School of Excellence Recognition for the third year in a row by ITEEA (International Technology and Engineering Educators Association). 

Community

To embrace our School Community, defining it as those who can know one another and be known, and to safeguard our communal health while practicing hospitality, empathy, and leadership rooted in service to others.

Strategic Initiatives UPDATES

List of 8 frequently asked questions.

  • Demonstrate the School’s Episcopal Identity through the teaching of values, ethics, and morals.

    - As of November 2023

    1. Incorporated 8th and 12th Grade Speeches into weekly Chapel times.
    2. Chaplain has organized the visitation of the Buddhist Monk, Lama Tenzin to create a Sand Mandala for the Annual 2024 International Festival.
    3. Rabbi Jeremy Barras came to present on the High Holy Days in the Fall of 2023.
    4. Annual visit of Bishop Peter Eaton. 
    5. Sacramental Services for Faculty/Staff and Alumni Families performed by the Chaplain. 
    6. Held the annual Veteran’s Day program on November 9, 2023.

    - As of February 2023

    1. Held weekly early morning Holy Eucharist Services for Faculty and Staff.
    2. Planned and executed Chapels over the entire semester:
      1. Collaborated with the Mexican Parents to create altars for the Day of the Dead and invited the Mexican Consulate to present on the cultural significance of the celebration.
      2. Invited Rabbi Fisch from Temple Judea to present and educate on the High Holy Days of Judaism during Chapel.
      3. Hosted the Palmetto Bay Community to celebrate and honor the local Veterans with an All School Chapel with the Mayor of Miami Dade County as the guest speaker.
      4. Collaborated with the Performing Arts Department to create a service of Lessons and Carols for the Annual Tree Lighting Service.
      5. Continued to message Lead with Love mantra through ongoing Chapels and School Gatherings.  
    1. Chaplain presented two workshops at the Biennial Convention for the National Association of Episcopal School in San Antonio, Texas, in November 2022 and to the Independent Schools of South Florida on "The Mental and Emotional Aspects of Education in the 21 Century."
    2. Chaplain continues to teach Christianity courses in the Postmodern World.

  • Enhance the Wellness, Advisory, and Athletics programs to reflect the School’s ethos of developing a healthy balance of mind, body and spirit.

    - As of November 2023

    1. Hosted Michael Domitrz from the Center for Respect.  With presentations given to both the students and the parents.
    2. Hosted Lisa Damour, the author of “The Emotional Lives of Teenagers”, virtually for parents.   
    3. Commenced a monthly "Gold Standard Breakfast", guest speaker presentations for student Athletes and faculty and staff.
    4. Ongoing professional development for Athletics and Sports Enrichments.

    - As of February 2023

    1. Hosted focus groups for middle school students to discuss issues around inclusion and belonging.
    2. Utilized peer counselors all year for students who are dealing with challenges at school and request or may benefit from meeting with an older PTS student. 
    3. Implemented first year of PTS’s specific advisory curriculum - a scaffolded approach to discussing relevant topics and issues in 6-12th grades aligned to the Portrait of a Graduate.
    4. Supported an education-based program modeled by student-athletes, parents, and coaches.
    5. Implemented Concussion Program in August 2022.
    6. Commenced a “Captain’s Circle” student-athlete Leadership Group, September 2021.
    7. Expanded our HUDL video to include film for player/coach review and college recruiting, August 2021.
    8. Hired New Athletic Trainer, Dr. Freer, and implemented rehabilitation at PTS, August 2022.
    9. Upgraded our football helmets to Riddell and lacrosse helmets to Cascade to follow sport safety and best practices, 2021-23.
    10. Upgraded Hall of Fame and Record Boards to digital displays, July 2022.
    11. Athletic Director attended the National Athletic Directors Conference in Nashville, TN, December 2022.
    12. Held three specifically designed Wellness Chapels for students. 
    13. Hosted Internationally acclaimed and Internet Safety advocate Alicia Kozak who spoke to students. 

  • Utilize data from the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Audit to ensure the quality of school life.

    - As of November 2023

    1. DEI Team met with parents and shared update at Parent Coffee in September 2023. 
    2. Sent out a DEI mid-semester report in October 2023.
    3. Updated DEI curriculum table on Resource Board. 

    - As of February 2023

    1. Redesigned the DEI Team's web presence to more fully and accurately communicate the School's DEI efforts and initiatives to all members of the community. 
    2. Engaged in proactive and sustained dialogue with various groups who have expressed the need for greater inclusion in our community (including alumni groups, parents of African American students, parents of LGBTQIA+ students, and parents of Jewish American students). Dialogue has resulted in programming (such as our Jewish American Heritage Month, Black History Month, and upcoming Pride Month convocations).

  • Implement feedback from the Belonging Survey to refine the Mosaic Program. 

    As of February 2023

    1. Embarked on a rewrite of the entire Mosaic program to create differentiated lessons for each grade level to remove redundancies and ensure age-appropriate pedagogy and content that builds on previous understanding from year-to-year.
    2. Expanded student participation in and development of the Mosaic program, by including student leaders in advisor and student facilitator training. 

  • Collaborate with the Episcopal Church to explore programmatic opportunities.

    As of February 2023

    1. Chaplain supports Sunday services at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Coconut Grove.
    2. Human Resources participates in the Safe Churches and Schools program in the Diocese. 
    3. Chaplain will attend the Annual Clergy Conference in January. 
    4. The School works closely with the Episcopal Church to promote social justice and equity.

  • Use the School’s systems and resources to maintain timely and relevant communication.

    As of February 2023

    1. Evaluating best communications methods in terms of website and electronic correspondence vehicles.
    2. Producing timely Head of School videos that are sent to the community.
    3. Completed over 100 push pages with pertinent information to the parents and greater community in the first semester.

  • Grow Admission recruitment efforts to attract and retain a diverse community reflective of the School’s Mission and Guiding Principles.

    - As of November 2023

    1. Participate in panel discussions for prospective parents at three different local schools.
    2. Attended local forum for parents interested in Independent Schools.
    3. Admission Office presented at Breakthrough Miami Annual Orientation Meeting for parents.

    - As of February 2023

    1. Hired Admission Officer to help with diversity recruitment.
    2. Completed podcast by Associate Head of External Relations for real estate company to communicate the School’s mission.
    3. Continue to provide opportunities for families to visit school outside of the typical open house times. Multiple tours, morning and afternoon information seasons. Provide virtual meetings and virtual interviews for added flexibility.  
    4. Have become test optional to drop the cost barrier ($150/test) of testing for underserved communities.
    5. Continue to meet with Relocation Managers to connect to families moving to Miami. 

  • Strengthen and promote Alumni engagement in the School community.

    - As of November 2023

    1. Enhancing communication between the Alumni Office and the Alumni Community by consistently delivering a monthly E-Newsletter featuring school news, events, and alumni spotlights and creating an accessible "Alumni Calendar" at the beginning of each school year, ensuring alumni have easy access to important dates and activities.
    2. Increasing the Alumni Office's visibility to current students by holding events like the Athletic Hall of Fame and Distinguished Alumni Awards during Chapel time for the Upper School, meeting with seniors in small groups to acquaint them with alumni efforts and establishing the Student Alumni Association to connect students with alumni. 
    3. Expanding our alumni reach by organizing Alumni Gatherings in major cities such as New York City, Chicago, Washington DC, Boston, and more.
    4. Working with College Counseling to establish more internship opportunities for juniors and seniors.

    - As of February 2023

    1. Hired new Alumni Relations Coordinator, which is an alumna, to continue building Alumni community.
    2. Continuing to update the alumni database with current and accurate contact information and strengthen the Class Agent program.
    3. Engage alumni by reaching out to them personally, with the expectation to bring them back into the PTS community such as hosting social events, featuring them in articles, speaking to our students and touring the campus. 
    4. Relaunch the PTS Alumni Mentor program, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and meaningful connections.  
    5. Promoting alumni leaders through continued Alumni Board work and engagement in additional committees.  

Faculty

To explore and secure pioneering ways to attract, retain, and develop Mission-driven Faculty who inspire, empower and challenge students to embrace Palmer Trinity’s Portrait of a Graduate.

Strategic Initiatives UPDATES

List of 6 frequently asked questions.

  • Implement the newly created Portrait of a Teacher.

    - As of November 2023

    1. Drafted a proposal for a Faculty Coordinator to submit to various leading Grant opportunities.
    2. Redesigned the Careers page for ease of access, visibility, and efficiency of submitting applications. 

    - As of February 2023

    1. Introduced in May of 2022.
    2. Will use on Careers page of website.

  • Research housing assistance as a means to attract mission-appropriate faculty.

    As of February 2023


    Continue to assess and review the housing market and discuss potential opportunities at the Board level. 

  • Maintain competitive compensation and benefit plans.

    As of February 2023

    1. Officially Rolled out the Patrick H. F. Roberts Global Learning Endowment Fund.
      •   Recognized inaugural winners in January of 2023.
    1. Provide increased compensation plan for all faculty and staff for the 2023-2024 academic year.

  • Explore avenues to attract prospective teachers to the PTS learning community.

    As of February 2023

    1. Researched three innovative hiring models: 
      • Summary of Research of Peer Schools' Models for Hiring and Attracting
    1. Hosted 2nd Annual Gratitude Week and added the following quality of life opportunities:
      1. Hosted numerous PTPA sponsored events for Faculty and Staff
      2. Increased generous Holiday Bonus
      3. Provided Thanksgiving Turkey/ Ham and Holiday Bread
      4. Hosted a variety of celebratory events on Campus
    1. Head of School Holiday has been added to the calendar.
    2. Hosted/Hosting Faculty Forum Series:
      1. Art of Communication Three (3) Events Fall, 2022
      2. Personal Finance, Real Estate, and Investing Three (3) Events Spring, 2023 
    3. Offered New Teacher Mentoring Program; Engaging Monthly Meetings with directed Topics.
    4. Scheduled to host our first (inaugural) Hiring Open House on Saturday, March 4th, 2023
    5. Establishing contacts with Barry University and University of Miami’s Schools of Education to explore the possibility of teaching internships/ observation requirements fulfilled through PTS.

  • Focus professional development on effective advising and teaching.

    - As of November 2023

    1. Newly appointed position of Director of Student Affairs
    2. Surveyed Advisors in the Spring of '23 for feedback on Advisory program

    - As of February 2023

    1. Established Professional Development component of “Launch” for ninth grade teachers;
    2. Regular collaboration meetings to ensure continuity. Expansion of Student Services:
      1. Additional School Counselor
      2. Additional Learning Specialist
      3. Advisory Coordinator
      4. Addition of grade-level training for advisor

  • Increase C.E.L.T.’s role in developing professionalism and collegiality.

    As of February 2023

    1. Will host 2nd Annual Wellness Day at Deering Estate (full day) February, 2023.
    2. Increased our Professional Development Budget to over $125,000.00 annual with nearly 50% participation beyond on-campus scheduled events.
      • Annual detailed Summary provided each May. 

Financial Sustainability

To ensure the future of Palmer Trinity School through visionary leadership and prudent stewardship of our financial and capital resources.

Strategic Initiatives UPDATES

List of 4 frequently asked questions.

  • Enhance a rolling three to ten-year operating budget including projections for capital expenditures, debt service, staffing and tuition increases.

    - As of November 2023

    Met our goal one year ahead of schedule of purchasing all textbooks for students, Grades 6 -12. 


    - As of February 2023

    1. Sync resources with strategic plan and the school's core values as to allocating resources to highest priorities for efficiently/effectively.
    2. Continue to provide the resources and programs in place to recruit, retain and develop the best mission appropriate faculty and staff.
    3. Continue to improve operations and seek opportunities as needed.

  • Expand the School’s philanthropic programs for increased participation among constituencies.

    - As of November 2023

    1. Hit $1 million mark for Annual Fund two months earlier than 2022 for Fall Annual Fund Drive and increased participation.
    2. Hosted Founders Forum events to re-engage former Trustees.
    3. Meet with each new family at Palmer Trinity to educate them on what it means to attend an Independent School and how important their support is in the success of the school.
    4. Conduct information collection campaigns for the grandparents of our current families, bring them into the fold on Palmer Trinity news and events, and include them in our 24 Hour Giving Challenge campaign.
    5. Increase Social Media outreach to connect all constituencies with the different campaigns and events connected with the Development Office.

    - As of February 2023

    1. Continue to build record-breaking Annual Fund foundation intentionally ensuring the highest quality student experience.
    2. Continue to increase alumni participation through such strategies such as: the March Madness Alumni giving challenge, and increased alumni social and professional opportunities.
    3. Utilize "Give Miami Day" as an opportunity to cultivate other constituencies for support of Palmer Trinity School.
    4. Building upon our "24 Hour Giving Challenge", to school pride and philanthropic support.

  • Reimagine mission-centered auxiliary services to generate revenue streams.

    As of February 2023
    1. Continue to rent existing facilities/fields such as the athletic fields when not used currently by PTS.
    2. Introduce special Chapel events such as weddings, arts, recitals, etc. to generate revenue and increase community exposure.

  • Grow the School’s reserves and the endowment.

    - As of November 2023

    Continue to assess needs of school and engage in ongoing planning.  


    - As of February 2023

    1. The Endowment has grown over the last 10 years from $200k to $15M to better weather market downturns and to be able to pay off debt, fund programs enhancements and faculty professional development--Patrick Roberts H.F. Roberts Global Learning Endowment (new 2022/23).
    2. The school has grown annual fund to over $1M to fund new programs, initiatives, learning spaces to better serve our community.
    3. Introduced policy to increase endowment through all capital projects with designated dollars.  

Land and Facilities

To leverage our campus footprint to maximize learning opportunities for our community — both its unparalleled facilities and distinctive Florida grounds — creating independent natural and built environments that enrich the mind, nurture the body, and refresh the spirit.

Strategic Initiatives UPDATES

List of 5 frequently asked questions.

  • Update the Campus Master Plan to reflect the completion of Phase 1 of the Soaring to Greater Heights Campaign and the evolution of the school.

    - As of November 2023

    1. Updating Virtual Campus Map housed on the website under Admission.
    2. Exploring possibility of displaying history timeline of the School in MS.  

    - As of February 2023

    1. 2023 Master Plan update in progress to reflect new projects built per 2014 master plan and as built to date revisions per the Soaring to Greater Heights Campaign. Pattern book to accompany in progress highlighting guidelines and standards for future improvements for consistency.
    2. New 3D campus map in progress.

  • Maximize the campus footprint to enhance outdoor areas for academic study and the arts.

    As of February 2023

    1. Added Outdoor Environmental Classroom. Falcon’s Nest Tiki Hut, Middle School Tiki Hut to maximize outdoor learning and gathering.
    2. New outdoor furniture added in middle school courtyard and Bacardi Quad, maximizing outdoor learning opportunities.

  • Enhance the facilities on the north side of campus to unify the entire Palmer Trinity School environment.

    - As of November 2023

    1. Replaced the batting cages and bleachers at the baseball and softball fields.
    2. Created new garden area for student engagement and ongoing research. 
    3. Added new awnings to connect MDR/PDR/Music Center in August 2023. 
    4. Added new expanded food truck and repurposed current Falcon Feeder for special events. 
    5. Created a new aesthetically pleasing and welcoming entrance/courtyard.
    6. Removed warped wooden benches throughout campus and replaced with more sustainable aluminum alternatives.
    7. Added new awnings across campus November 2023.

    - As of February 2023

    1. All exteriors of buildings and roofs painted to match the new south campus color scheme, white primary and yellow secondary.
    2. New north entrance gate at SW 176th Street completed to match the south entrance gate. 
    3. Roadways and parking lots resurfaced and restriped, completed 2022.
    4. Campus wayfinding signage added throughout campus.

  • Develop a sustainability strategy that informs the built environment consistent with the ethos of the School.

    - As of November 2023

    1. Palmer Trininty recognized as the first private school in Florida to receive National recognition as a green ribbon school. 
    2. Continue to replace old lighting with LED lighting across campus.

    - As of February 2023

    1. Director of Sustainability working with the science department to develop a sustainability statement in progress.
    2. New vendor Waste Management engaged to improve waste stream efficiency and provide data for students to use in the classroom.
    3. Kipp Field House achieved net zero energy footprint through solar panel installation. Monitoring of energy consumption being used in curriculum and ongoing.
    4. Five (5) Electrical Vehicle charging stations installed on campus with two (2) new stations in the student parking lot in progress.

  • Continue to implement innovative technology solutions across the campus.

    - As of November 2023

    1. Continue to implement keyless entry throughout buildings on campus.
    2. Continue to add security cameras throughout campus.
    3. Added vape detectors throughout campus restrooms.
    4. Undergoing data system implementation upgrade with Veracross. 
    5. Hand held radio distributed to faculty and staff as part of Crisis Management improvements.

    - As of February 2023

    1. Incident IQ system implemented to replace Schooldude.
    2. New and improved visitor check in process at guard houses with email and text alerts.
    3. New student sign in and sign out system with email and text alerts to families.
    4. New internet switches installed locally in each building to minimize impact of outages.
Main Entrance: 8001 SW 184th Street, Miami, FL 33157
Mailing Address: 7900 SW 176th Street, Miami, FL 33157
Main:     305.251.2230
Admission:     305.969.4208