In September 2025, the Community Music School Board’s Strategic Direction Task Force reconvened to review the strategic objectives that the Board had approved in 2021 and to develop a recommendation on new strategic objectives. The five new Board-approved objectives will guide the organization’s programming, priorities, and funding needs in its current and future fiscal year(s).
The Task Force, led again by longtime Board Member Mary Hahn, consisted of CMS Board members and representatives from the community, faculty, and staff. The group of 11 met three times between September and November 2025. They conducted an audit of the current objectives, reviewed market information as well as survey feedback from students, parents, and faculty, and then analyzed this information. The Task Force used these quantitative and qualitative data to draft five new strategic objectives, which were approved at the CMS Board of Directors meeting on November 17, 2025:
Engagement: CMS will foster active and meaningful participation among faculty, staff, students, and the board through innovative programming and teaching, clearly defined expectations, and strong community partnerships.
Evolution: CMS will support options for faculty growth and a progressive model of music education by adapting its recruitment, program, development, and organizational infrastructure to meet the changing needs of students and the community.
Inclusion: CMS will reflect the diverse community it serves and nurture a supportive learning environment for all of its students.
Presence: CMS will enhance its footprint by focusing on the long-term stability of its location(s) and strategic opportunities to meet the needs of current and prospective students and faculty.
Sustainability: CMS will prudently steward its financial and human resources, seeking additional support and planning for succession to ensure long-term viability and growth.
The CMS leadership team is grateful to the Task Force for its work that will shape the future of the School.
