This summer, three School District of Lancaster leaders represented our district at the Building Solutions Conference in Harrisburg, hosted by the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN). Principal Dr. Torres, Director of Schools Dr. Hopkins, and Assistant Principal Mrs. Sparmblack presented “Jackson’s Road to Continuous Improvement: Creating a Structured Pathway for Excellence.”
Their presentation spotlighted the intentional work happening at Jackson Middle School to create an environment where improvement is not a one-time effort but a continuous process. By building a structured framework grounded in equity, collaboration, and accountability, Jackson has charted a clear course for growth. The team shared how data-driven decision-making, strategic planning, and strong staff collaboration have helped improve instruction, strengthen student engagement, and create a supportive school culture where all learners can thrive.
The Building Solutions Conference, held July 28–31, 2025, is one of Pennsylvania’s most comprehensive professional learning opportunities. With the theme “Bridging Knowledge to Know-How: Empowering Educators and Partners,” the conference brought together educators, families, community partners, and youth from across the state. Attendees explored practical strategies to meet the evolving needs of today’s classrooms, with focused sessions on autism, sensory disabilities, secondary transition, and serving students with complex instructional needs.
Developed from the strengths of the HELIX, National Autism, and Secondary Transition conferences, Building Solutions offered an inclusive platform where educators could share expertise, exchange best practices, and leave with tangible strategies to apply in their schools. Beyond workshops and presentations, the event emphasized the importance of partnerships, between schools, families, and communities, to ensure that every student has the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.
By presenting Jackson’s structured pathway to excellence, Dr. Torres, Dr. Hopkins, and Mrs. Sparmblack contributed to this statewide dialogue on continuous improvement. Their insights not only affirmed the progress made at Jackson but also served as a model for how other schools can build systems that adapt to student needs while holding high expectations.
We are proud of our leaders for representing the School District of Lancaster on such an important stage. Their work reflects our district’s shared commitment to innovation, equity, and the belief that when educators collaborate and remain focused on continuous growth, students benefit most.