The "Hit the Ground Learning" initiative, announced by Superintendent Heath Morrison when he assumed the position on Aug. 1, continues this month and next with four more community superintendent forums. The evening sessions are a continuing effort to solicit comment and opinions from parents, business leaders, district staff and other interested citizens on five key questions:

* What are the strengths of the Washoe County * What are areas of needed improvement?

* As the budget remains a challenge, what are the priorities for the district?

* How can we raise the bar of academic success for ALL students and eliminate achievement gaps?

* What will "world-class" mean as a standard in the WCSD?

The sessions are scheduled for 7 p.m. at the following schools:

* Nov. 12 at Spanish Springs High School

* Dec. 1 at McQueen High School

* Dec. 10 at Sun Valley Elementary School

* Dec. 16 at Depoali Middle School

"I have already met with more than 50 groups throughout the community and received great comments and suggestions and I want to continue these conversations," Morrison said. "As the Board of Trustees and I work to develop the reforms necessary to take the school district to the next level, it is crucial that we listen to all of the voices in the community. This is why these forums are so important."