Ross Local School District

CommUNITY Conversations were launched by Superintendent Dr. Bill Rice as a way to build stronger connections, foster trust, and listen directly to the voices of our Ross Local School District families and community members. The goal is simple: to create meaningful dialogue in welcoming spaces where people feel heard and valued. So far this year, Dr. Rice has held four CommUNITY Conversations in the homes of district residents, engaging in open, small-group discussions focused on what’s working, what could be improved, and how we can work together to make Ross the best it can be.

Looking ahead to next year, Dr. Rice plans to expand the CommUNITY Conversations initiative in two meaningful ways. First, he’ll continue hosting gatherings in the homes of community members to maintain the intimate, personal nature of these discussions. In addition, he’ll introduce targeted conversations aimed at specific groups—such as parents of incoming kindergarteners, local business owners, or senior citizens—held in more open, accessible locations. These efforts reflect Dr. Rice’s commitment to inclusive, transparent leadership and his belief that the best ideas for our schools come from the people who know and love this community.

fRAMily Focus is a seasonal newsletter written by Superintendent Dr. Bill Rice specifically for Ross families. Designed to highlight timely and relevant topics, each edition provides insight into district priorities, upcoming events, and ways families can stay engaged in their child’s education. Whether it’s back-to-school readiness, winter wellness tips, or spring testing updates, fRAMily Focus ensures parents are informed and connected throughout the year.

fRAMily Matters is Dr. Rice’s internal communication initiative designed to celebrate and support the incredible staff who make Ross a special place to work and learn. Through a mix of newsletters, videos, and staff interviews, fRAMily Matters shares important updates while also recognizing the people behind the work. This initiative is rooted in the belief that Ross is more than a workplace—it’s a family—and strong, transparent communication helps nurture that culture every day.

Business Advisory Council is a new initiative Superintendent Dr. Bill Rice plans to launch as part of his ongoing commitment to community collaboration and future-focused learning. This council will bring together local business leaders, educators, and district leadership to ensure that Ross students are being prepared for real-world success—whether they choose college, careers, or military service after graduation.

The goal of the Business Advisory Council is to strengthen the connection between our schools and the local workforce by aligning classroom learning with the skills and experiences students need beyond graduation. By creating intentional partnerships with area businesses, Dr. Rice aims to expand career exploration opportunities, enhance curriculum relevance, and ensure Ross graduates are not only well-educated but also well-prepared to thrive in their chosen paths.

State of the Community is an exciting future initiative that Superintendent Dr. Bill Rice envisions as a way to bring the entire Ross community together in celebration, reflection, and forward-thinking conversation. This event will serve as an annual opportunity to highlight the district’s progress, share important updates, and showcase the achievements of our students and staff, all while reinforcing the strong bond between our schools and the community we serve.

The vision for State of the Community is to create a gathering where families, staff, local leaders, and residents can come together to hear about the great things happening across the district, understand our goals for the future, and be inspired by the collective impact we’re making. It will be more than just an update—it will be a moment of pride, partnership, and purpose that reaffirms why Ross Local Schools is a place where every student thrives and every community member matters.