Wildly Important Goals (WIGs)
Wildly Important Goals: Focusing on What Matters Most
Wildly Important Goals, often called WIGs, are a key part of the Leader in Me approach used in schools across the country. Simply put, WIGs help schools focus on a small number of goals that matter most for students, instead of trying to do too many things at once.
Research shows that when organizations take on too many priorities, progress slows and energy is spread too thin. Schools are no different. Clear and focused goals lead to better results, especially when everyone understands the goal, tracks progress, and knows how their daily actions make a difference.
Wildly Important Goals are:
Focus on the most important academic and school improvement needs
Are clear and measurable, so progress can be seen over time
Are shared by staff and students, building teamwork and responsibility
Connect daily classroom practices to long-term success
Strong research in education shows that students perform better when teachers work together around clear goals and when students understand what they are working toward. When goals are visible and progress is tracked, motivation increases and success becomes more achievable.
Wildly Important Goals are not about adding another program or checklist. They are about creating clarity and focus. Students learn to set goals, monitor their progress, and take ownership of their learning. Teachers and staff align their efforts so time and energy are spent where they have the greatest impact.
The message is simple. Focus on what matters most. Measure progress honestly. Teach students and adults to take responsibility for results. When schools do this well, meaningful and lasting improvement follows.
Click on the accordion below to view the Springfield City School District's WIGs for the 2025-2026 school year.