The 2021-2025 Strategic Plan was developed with significant input from all SCS stakeholder groups. In April 2021, the school division released an online needs assessment survey that remained open for approximately two weeks and concluded with 328 completed responses. The survey polled students, staff, teachers and community partners on the needs and priorities of Staunton City Schools over the next four years. All middle and high school students and all staff had an opportunity to participate. A sampling of families was selected to participate through parent-teacher organizations and curbside meal pickup locations at schools. Organizations partnering with SCS were also asked for their input.

SCS also performed an internal analysis of needs over the summer with employee groups in technology, maintenance, operations, and nutrition services. During September and October, school division leaders participated in a SWOT analysis to assess SCS' strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats and how to address each of those areas over the next four years.