A. Bothner explained that the day was about taking a step back from the daily duties of Trustees and school leaders, and instead reflecting on strategic priorities and goals for the school, with an eye to the bigger picture. 

A. Bothner explained that the framework for the day's strategic planning was to be aspirational in envisioning the school's future; to be in the moment and engaged in discussion with one another; to limit long speeches so as to cover more ground; and for everyone to keep a list of items that are interesting or require follow-up so that they can be pursued in future planning discussions. He also explained some logistical practices to be applied in order to ensure that everyone has time to speak.

Participants discussed a number of school values: what they mean to participants individually, why they matter, and what they look like, feel like and sound like in practice at Met. The values are:

• "All children"
• "Children first"
• "Healthy relationships"
• "Better tomorrow, next year, and five years from now" 
• "Rigorous preparation for college, career and life"
• "Think & act boldly, innovatively, and practically"
• "Schools are aspirational institutions that can work to overcome systemic inequality"

Some themes that emerged are the need to support students in being resilient in the face of difficult realities, in critical thinking, in practical skills (cultural and professional competency), and in building trusting relationships with each other as well as with school staff and the community. Supporting students also looks like being proactive rather than reactionary, paying attention to the language being used, and making sure every child is treated as a unique individual. Finally, students need to be empowered to change the world around them to be better, and more equal. Part of that is making sure children have a safe space to consider and confront injustices in the world. 

Attendees participated in a brief icebreaker activity.

A. Bothner asked participants to consider and develop three to five areas for the Board to focus on over the next three to five years. Based on a survey that Trustees filled out about strategic priorities and goals, the discussion centered around the following ideas:
• Improved prioritization of community relations
• Evaluate short-term/long-term financial governance structures that best serve our students
• Determine a board governance structure focused on development/fundraising/community
• Always students first!
• Ensure we are meeting the needs of our children to the best of our ability by connecting them with the best
resources available
• Actively work to counter systemic injustices that affect our students

Participants discussed what each goal looks like five years out, three years out, and next year. A. Bothner explained that specific next steps will be developed based on the goals set in this discussion. Participants found that developing a strong school presence and "brand" in the community would be key to meeting many goals, including building community relationships, making use of community resources, and fundraising. The need for the Board to be held accountable to the community and all stakeholders was also highlighted. In order for the school to work to promote equality and justice for its students, it should also seek to be a leader in the space.

Participants reflected on how the discussion and strategic goal-setting went during the meeting, and clarified next steps.