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HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-10-11 BOT Agenda PacketThe Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees will begin immediately following the conclusion of the Board of Trustees Workshop but not prior to the posted start time. Page 1 of 3 WESTLAKE ACADEMY Mission / Vision Statement Westlake Academy is a nurturing, community owned International Baccalaureate Charter School whose mission is to achieve academic excellence and to develop life-long learners who become well-balanced, responsible global citizens. BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING AGENDA Amended showing the corrected year to 2011 March 10, 2011 WESTLAKE TOWN HALL 3 VILLAGE CIRCLE – 2ND FLOOR COUNCIL CHAMBERS/MUNICIPAL COURT ROOM Workshop Session 4:30 p.m. Regular Session 6:00 p.m. Workshop Session 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. REVIEW OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS FROM MARCH 10, 2011, TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETING AGENDA. (corrected to reflect the date of the meeting 3/10/11) Page 2 of 3 3. REPORTS Reports are prepared for informational purposes and will be accepted as presented. (there will no presentations associated with the report items) There will be no separate discussion unless a Board Member requests that report be removed and considered separately. a. Secondary Leadership Team recommendations for expanding Language B component within both the MYP and DP. 4. DISCUSSION ITEMS a. Presentation and Discussion of Various Multi-Year State Funding Forecast Reduction Scenarios for Westlake Academy. b. Presentation and Discussion of Westlake Academy Facility Plan Options by Mr. Peter Hayes of Project Management Services, Inc. c. Discussion of board of trustee governance as illustrated in Dr. Brian Carpenter’s Charter School Board University: An introduction to effective charter school governance; Chapters 16-17. 5. BOARD RECAP / STAFF DIRECTION 6. ADJOURNMENT Regular Session 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. CITIZENS' PRESENTATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS: This is an opportunity for citizens to address the Board on any matter whether or not it is posted on the agenda. The Board cannot by law take action nor have any discussion or deliberations on any presentation made to the Board at this time concerning an item not listed on the agenda. Any item presented may be noticed on a future agenda for deliberation or action. 4. CONSENT AGENDA: All items listed below are considered routine by the Board of Trustees and will be enacted with one motion. There will be no separate discussion of items unless a Board member or citizen so requests, in which event the item will be removed from the general order of business and considered in its normal sequence. a. Consider approval of the minutes for the meeting held on February 7, 2011. b. Consider approval of the minutes for the meeting held on February 28, 2011. c. Consider approval of Resolution 11-05, in Support of Making Education a Priority in the Current Texas Legislature’s Budget Deliberations for the Next Biennium. Page 3 of 3 d. Consider approval of Resolution 11-06, Requesting a waiver for Missed Instructional Days. 5. BOARD CALENDAR - Trustee Meeting April 4, 2011 - Town Offices Closed April 22, 2011 (Good Friday) - WA Senior Dinner June 2, 2011, Petroleum Club, Fort Worth - 7:00-10:00 p.m. - WA Graduation June 4, 2011, Hurst Convention Center - 2:00 p.m. 6. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: Any Board member may request at a workshop and / or Board meeting, under “Future Agenda Item Requests”, an agenda item for a future Board meeting. The Board member making the request will contact the Superintendent with the requested item and the Superintendent will list it on the agenda. At the meeting, the requesting Board member will explain the item, the need for Board discussion of the item, the item’s relationship to the Board’s strategic priorities, and the amount of estimated staff time necessary to prepare for Board discussion. If the requesting Board member receives a second, the Superintendent will place the item on the Board agenda calendar allowing for adequate time for staff preparation on the agenda item. 7. ADJOURNMENT ANY ITEM ON THIS POSTED AGENDA COULD BE DISCUSSED IN EXECUTIVE SESSION AS LONG AS IT IS WITHIN ONE OF THE PERMITTED CATEGORIES UNDER SECTIONS 551.071 THROUGH 551.076 AND SECTION 551.087 OF THE TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE. I certify that the above notice was posted at the Town Hall of the Town of Westlake, 3 Village Circle, on March 8, 2011, by 10:30 a.m. under the Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code. CERTIFICATION _____________________________________ Kelly Edwards, Town Secretary If you plan to attend this public meeting and have a disability that requires special needs, please advise the Town Secretary 48 hours in advance at 817-490-5710 and reasonable accommodations will be made to assist you. The Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees will begin immediately following the conclusion of the Board of Trustees Workshop but not prior to the posted start time. Page 1 of 3 WESTLAKE ACADEMY Mission / Vision Statement Westlake Academy is a nurturing, community owned International Baccalaureate Charter School whose mission is to achieve academic excellence and to develop life-long learners who become well-balanced, responsible global citizens. BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING AGENDA March 10, 2010 WESTLAKE TOWN HALL 3 VILLAGE CIRCLE – 2ND COUNCIL CHAMBERS/MUNICIPAL COURT ROOM FLOOR Workshop Session 4:30 p.m. Regular Session 6:00 p.m. Workshop Session 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. REVIEW OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS FROM MARCH 7, 2011, TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETING AGENDA. Page 2 of 3 3. REPORTS Reports are prepared for informational purposes and will be accepted as presented. (there will no presentations associated with the report items) There will be no separate discussion unless a Board Member requests that report be removed and considered separately. a. Secondary Leadership Team recommendations for expanding Language B component within both the MYP and DP. 4. DISCUSSION ITEMS a. Presentation and Discussion of Various Multi-Year State Funding Forecast Reduction Scenarios for Westlake Academy. b. Presentation and Discussion of Westlake Academy Facility Plan Options by Mr. Peter Hayes of Project Management Services, Inc. c. Discussion of board of trustee governance as illustrated in Dr. Brian Carpenter’s Charter School Board University: An introduction to effective charter school governance; Chapters 16-17. 5. BOARD RECAP / STAFF DIRECTION 6. ADJOURNMENT Regular Session 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. CITIZENS' PRESENTATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS: This is an opportunity for citizens to address the Board on any matter whether or not it is posted on the agenda. The Board cannot by law take action nor have any discussion or deliberations on any presentation made to the Board at this time concerning an item not listed on the agenda. Any item presented may be noticed on a future agenda for deliberation or action. 4. CONSENT AGENDA: All items listed below are considered routine by the Board of Trustees and will be enacted with one motion. There will be no separate discussion of items unless a Board member or citizen so requests, in which event the item will be removed from the general order of business and considered in its normal sequence. a. Consider approval of the minutes for the meeting held on February 7, 2011. b. Consider approval of the minutes for the meeting held on February 28, 2011. c. Consider approval of Resolution 11-05, in Support of Making Education a Priority in the Current Texas Legislature’s Budget Deliberations for the Next Biennium. Page 3 of 3 d. Consider approval of Resolution 11-06, Requesting a waiver for Missed Instructional Days. 5. BOARD CALENDAR - Trustee Meeting April 4, 2011 - Town Offices Closed April 22, 2011 (Good Friday) - WA Senior Dinner June 2, 2011, Petroleum Club, Fort Worth - 7:00-10:00 p.m. - WA Graduation June 4, 2011, Hurst Convention Center - 2:00 p.m. 6. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: Any Board member may request at a workshop and / or Board meeting, under “Future Agenda Item Requests”, an agenda item for a future Board meeting. The Board member making the request will contact the Superintendent with the requested item and the Superintendent will list it on the agenda. At the meeting, the requesting Board member will explain the item, the need for Board discussion of the item, the item’s relationship to the Board’s strategic priorities, and the amount of estimated staff time necessary to prepare for Board discussion. If the requesting Board member receives a second, the Superintendent will place the item on the Board agenda calendar allowing for adequate time for staff preparation on the agenda item. 7. ADJOURNMENT ANY ITEM ON THIS POSTED AGENDA COULD BE DISCUSSED IN EXECUTIVE SESSION AS LONG AS IT IS WITHIN ONE OF THE PERMITTED CATEGORIES UNDER SECTIONS 551.071 THROUGH 551.076 AND SECTION 551.087 OF THE TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE. I certify that the above notice was posted at the Town Hall of the Town of Westlake, 3 Village Circle, on March 7, 2011, by 3:00 p.m. under the Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code. CERTIFICATION _____________________________________ Kelly Edwards, Town Secretary If you plan to attend this public meeting and have a disability that requires special needs, please advise the Town Secretary 48 hours in advance at 817-490-5710 and reasonable accommodations will be made to assist you. CONSENT AGENDA: All items listed below are considered routine by the Board of Trustees and will be enacted with one motion. There will be no separate discussion of items unless a Board member or citizen so requests, in which event the item will be removed from the general order of business and considered in its normal sequence. a. Consider approval of the minutes for the meeting held on February 7, 2011. b. Consider approval of the minutes for the meeting held on February 28, 2011. c. Consider approval of Resolution 11-05, in Support of Making Education a Priority in the Current Texas Legislature’s Budget Deliberations for the Next Biennium. d. Consider approval of Resolution 11-06, Requesting a waiver for Missed Instructional Days. Westlake Academy Item # 2 – Review of Consent Agenda Items REPORTS Reports are prepared for informational purposes and will be accepted as presented. (there will no presentations associated with the report items) There will be no separate discussion unless a Board Member requests that report be removed and considered separately. a. Secondary Leadership Team recommendations for expanding Language B component within both the MYP and DP. Westlake Academy Item # 3 – Reports Page 1 of 1 WESTLAKE ACADEMY AGENDA ITEM Curriculum: MYP/DP Meeting Date: March 10, 2011 Staff Contact: Rod Harding Report Subject: Secondary Leadership Team Recommendations for Expanding Language B The position paper provides research-based information regarding the secondary leadership team’s recommendation for the alternate choice to Spanish for the Language B component within both the MYP and DP. This recommendation embraces the IBO model and conforms to the desired outcomes outlined in the WA Strategic Plan. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY High Student Achievement APPLICABLE STRATEGIC PLAN DESIRED OUTCOME Strong Parent & Community Connections Financial Stewardship & Sustainability Student Engagement – Extracurricular activities Effective Educators & Staff Academic Achievement WESTLAKE ACADEMY VALUES MYP, DP (IB Continuum) Caring Environment Communication/Transparency Engaged Stakeholders Maximizing Each Child’s Potential Funded Not Funded X N/A FISCAL IMPACT Report presented for Board information and review. RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED/ OPTIONS Report on Recommendations for Expanding Language B. ATTACHMENTS . 1 Position Paper: Secondary Leadership Team Recommendations for Expanding Language B Westlake Academy and Language B Currently, Westlake Academy (WA) administers a Spanish program as its second language. IB refers to this as Language B, because Language A is the primary language of instruction. Since 2003, the Spanish program has been taught in Kindergarten through Grade 6. As the grades advanced, the secondary school has progressed the Spanish curriculum through both the Middle Years Program (MYP) and Diploma Program (DP). WA now represents a complete continuum of Spanish language learning. The direction given as to the beliefs and values about all language learning for Westlake Academy has been documented in the school’s language policy. WA Language Policy: Statement of Philosophy All teaching and learning is driven by the idea that through language instruction, we are encouraging intercultural awareness and new perspectives, a culture of curiosity, as well as an appreciation of the richness of our world’s diversity. We strongly believe that through this exploration of language, students develop as deeper, independent thinkers; as responsible, understanding citizens of the world; and as better communicators in our multilingual world. All students experience an enriched, language program in which English is the primary language of instruction and Spanish is taught as an additional language. At Westlake Academy, we consider Math, Visual Arts, and Music as other valuable languages to which all students are consistently exposed and encouraged to use to understand the world (WA, 2007). Language Acquisition and the IB Learner Profile The overriding goal of any language is to develop students who are “…..independent thinkers…responsible, understanding citizens of the world; and as better communicators in our multilingual world” (WA, 2007). Additional languages, other than the language of instruction provided in any IB World School, must endeavor to provide students with opportunities to “…..understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more than one language and in a variety of modes of communication and work effectively and willingly in collaboration with others” (IBO, 2008). The design of a language program is shaped by the purposes it is intended to serve. If we value and believe in the IB philosophy then the purpose of language learning is for students to be competent communicators in real-life situations. Instruction therefore 2 must adequately prepare them to function in authentic cultural contexts. The goal of performing with language requires sufficient time for speaking. Standardized tests must be developed to assess proficiency—rather than direct it to achievement only—and to reflect the holistic orientation of proficiency. Language B and the WA Strategic Plan The WA strategic plan states under Desired Outcomes – Student Achievement: 8.0 Students will possess a working proficiency in a second language. 8.3 Graduates will demonstrate the following:  Know how to communicate effectively in a number of situations and within the culture where the language is spoken  Communicate clearly and effectively in a range of situations; understand and accurately use oral and written forms of language  Express ideas with clarity and fluency while understanding the vocabulary and common usage  Possess the ability to understand and respond appropriately to the written and spoken material of average difficulty (WA, 2010). In order to achieve these strategic outcomes, WA must always focus on communication. Second language acquisition must include oral and written forms at a moderate level of fluency. It must be an active and communicative process for learning about other cultures. A modern foreign language is the only choice open to WA, because we expect our students to communicate effectively in a wide range of situations and within the culture of the spoken language. A study by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) and the national associations of teachers of French, German, Spanish and Portuguese emphasized that communication should be the organizing principle for foreign language study. "While grammar and vocabulary are essential tools for communication, it is the acquisition of the ability to communicate in meaningful and appropriate ways with users of other languages that is the ultimate goal of today's foreign language classroom” (ACTFL, 1996). In promoting communication, the standards reflect the "proficiency movement" that has been making inroads in foreign language classrooms for more than a decade. The proficiency movement focuses on what students can do with what they know. This application is very much the teaching philosophy of the International Baccalaureate 3 Program. Researchers have found that the study of grammar alone, through rote dialogues and drills, is not the best way to develop proficiency. When students are given opportunities to use the language in meaningful contexts, they develop proficiency faster—and are more eager learners. If we are to use language in real-life situations students need to communicate in authentic ways. Authentic communications have a purpose. As in real life, language is used to get something done—to make a purchase or to express an opinion, for example. Authentic communications involve a true exchange of information. And in authentic communications, the communicators have a shared sense of the context of their interaction. Although all agree that communication should be the overriding goal of foreign language instruction, experts are quick to point out that grammar, accuracy, and pronunciation should not be slighted. The traditional elements are there and are used as a means to an end. Languages, such as ancient Latin or ancient Greek, are excellent for building vocabulary, improving grammar, and learning about past civilizations. However, these languages focus less on communication and more on understanding of ancient texts. In fact, the oral component of ancient language is minimized, because there really is no communicative application in the modern world. Since communication is central to developing a working proficiency in a second language, an ancient language would not serve as the best alternative for achieving the desired outcomes of the WA strategic Plan. A prime advantage of the communication emphasis is that students find it engaging and students enjoy interacting with real people. Which is more motivating: picking apart sentences or communicating with a peer in another country?" Promoting communication in language acquisition requires learning about other cultures, making connections to other disciplines, developing insights into the nature of language and culture, and participating in multilingual communities. Communication is the essential goal of the WA Strategic Plan as outlined by the WA Language Policy and supported by the IB Learner Profile. Expanding Language B The intrinsic purpose of this paper is to determine what is the best way to proceed in expanding Language B at WA. Since communication is the strategic goal of language acquisition, WA needs to focus on a modern foreign language that offers the most versatility for our students when they matriculate to college or university. Similarly, the mission of the IB language policy is to provide a framework for schools to embrace the values and aims of multilingualism. Specifically, this policy states: 4 “The International Baccalaureate” (IB) is committed through its access agenda to reach students from a variety of cultural, linguistic and social backgrounds ” (IBO, 2011). In order to achieve this mission, the IB has established three working languages: “The languages in which the organization [IBO} communicates with its stakeholders and in which it is committed to providing a range of services for the implementation of the programs are currently English, French and Spanish ” (IBO, 2011). These working languages represent a starting point for discussing how to expand Language B at WA. In US institutions of higher learning, enrollments in languages other than English mirror the working languages of the IB. The Modern Language Association recently reported that Spanish makes up 51.4% of the total enrollment in higher education, followed by French with 12.9% of the total enrollment. German is listed third with 5.7%, and all other languages are individually below 5.5% of the total enrollment. Most notably, Chinese is 3.6%, Arabic is 2.1%, and Latin is 1.9%. Clearly, Spanish and French are the second language choices of students at American institutions of higher learning (Furman, et al, p. 26). If we are to prepare our students for the transition into higher education, it is prudent to select an alternative Language B that is offered and supported by the overwhelming majority of college and university campuses. Since WA already offers Spanish as its Language B, the logical choice for an alternative language is French. Therefore, it is the secondary leadership team’s recommendation that French be adopted and supported as the alternate choice to Spanish for the Language B component within both the MYP and DP. This recommendation embraces the IBO model and conforms to the desired outcomes outlined in the WA Strategic Plan. 5 References ACTFL. (1996). Standards for foreign language learning: Preparing for the 21st century. National Standards in Foreign Language Education Project. Furman, N., et al. (2010). Enrollments in languages other than English in United States institutions of higher education, Fall 2009. Retrieved 2/28/20111, http:// www.mla.org/enroll_survey09. IBO. (2008). MYP: From principles to practice. International Baccalaureate Organization. IBO. (2011). International baccalaureate language policy. International Baccalaureate Organization. Retrieved 2/28/2011, http://www.ibo.org/mission/languagepolicy WA. (2007). Westlake Academy language policy. Westlake Academy. WA. (2010). Westlake Academy strategic plan. Westlake Academy. DISCUSSION ITEMS a. Presentation and Discussion of Various Multi-Year State Funding Forecast Reduction Scenarios for Westlake Academy. b. Presentation and Discussion of Westlake Academy Facility Plan Options by Mr. Peter Hayes of Project Management Services, Inc. c. Discussion of board of trustee governance as illustrated in Dr. Brian Carpenter’s Charter School Board University: An introduction to effective charter school governance; Chapters 16-17. Westlake Academy Item # 4 – Discussion Items Page 1 of 1 WESTLAKE ACADEMY AGENDA ITEM Curriculum: PYP/MYP/DP Meeting Date: March 10, 2011 Staff Contact: Tom Brymer, Superintendent Discussion Subject: Presentation and Discussion of Various Multi-Year State Funding Forecast Reduction Scenarios for Westlake Academy The State Legislature is now in session and based on the State Comptroller’s forecast, all State revenue to fund existing services, including public education, will be reduced over the next 2 fiscal years compared to current State funding levels. While the amount of reduction in State public education funding is yet unknown for the next Biennium, estimates vary from 5% to 15%. Westlake Academy currently receives about 80% of its operating income from the State. For purposes of comparison, a 15% State funding reduction would mean approximately $560,000 less revenue for the Academy’s operating budget in 2011-12, a very significant reduction. And again, this reduction would be for 2 fiscal years, 2011-12 and 2012-13. At the workshop various funding forecast reductions, as well as the assumptions they are based on, will be presented to the Board for feedback and direction to staff as preparations of the 2011-12 budget near. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY High Student Achievement APPLICABLE STRATEGIC PLAN DESIRED OUTCOME Strong Parent & Community Connections Financial Stewardship & Sustainability Student Engagement – Extracurricular activities Effective Educators & Staff Academic Achievement WESTLAKE ACADEMY VALUES PYP, MYP, DP (IB Continuum) Caring Environment Fiscal Stewardship Communication/Transparency Engaged Stakeholders Maximizing Each Child’s Potential Funded Not Funded N/A FISCAL IMPACT Not applicable at this time until funding forecast scenarios are presented at the workshop to the Board for feedback and direction. Hear the staff presentation and provide staff feedback and direction. Staff recommendations will be presented at the workshop. RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED/ OPTIONS ATTACHMENTS Funding forecast scenarios to be sent out under separate cover. : Page 1 of 2 WESTLAKE ACADEMY AGENDA ITEM Curriculum: PYP/MYP/DP Meeting Date: March 10, 2011 Staff Contact: Tom Brymer, Superintendent Discussion Subject: Presentation and Discussion of Westlake Academy Facility Plan Options by Mr. Peter Hayes of Project Management Services, Inc. Mr. Peter Hayes of Project Management Services, Inc. will present to the Board multi-year facility plan options related to Westlake Academy future facilities and modifications to existing facilities as well as financing/enrollment plans to fund these options. Mr. Hayes’ firm has lengthy experience in charter school facility planning and financing. Mr. Hayes and his staff have been working with our staff team on these options, receiving staff input on the options being presented to the Board. This presentation comports directly to WA’s Strategic Plan as follows: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Desired Outcome- Effective Educators and Staff Specific Outcome: 4.0 Draft long-range facility master plan and integrate with the capital improvement plan (CIP) for the Town of Westlake Team Leader(s): Chief Executive Officer; Facilities and Recreation Director – Short-Range Goal  4.1 Work with the Leadership Team to establish a viable facility planning and review process Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2011  4.2 Draft facility master plan (FMP) scope with the Board and receive direction Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2011  4.3 Integrate with the CIP for the Town Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2011 High Student Achievement APPLICABLE STRATEGIC PLAN DESIRED OUTCOME Strong Parent & Community Connections Financial Stewardship & Sustainability Student Engagement – Extracurricular activities Effective Educators & Staff Academic Achievement WESTLAKE ACADEMY VALUES PYP, MYP, DP (IB Continuum) Caring Environment Fiscal Stewardship Communication/Transparency Engaged Stakeholders Maximizing Each Child’s Potential Page 2 of 2 Funded (facility study only) Not Funded N/A FISCAL IMPACT This study was funded by a grant from the Hudson Foundation. The study Mr. Hayes prepared provides funding scenarios of the various facility options his firm has identified. The study utilizes the approach of having State public education money fund debt service for these improvements based on student enrollment. Hear Mr. Hayes’ presentation, discuss it, ask questions, and see if other scenarios warrant study. Staff recommends that the Board take this study under advisement for further Board discussion during a WA strategic planning session. RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED/ OPTIONS 1.) Information on Mr. Peter Hayes firm, PMSI (www.pmsitx.com) ATTACHMENTS 2.) PMSI Report on WA Plan Options and Funding (sent under separate cover) HOME ABOUT US PROJECTS SERVICES CONTACT US About Us Login Privacy Statement | Terms Of Use Copyright 2008 Project Management Services, Inc. About Us Project Management Services, Inc. (PMSI) is a comprehensive project management firm, located in Central Texas, that provides clients a range of cost effective services, including real estate development, construction management, programming, planning and design management, estimating, and claims consulting. Our team is versed in managing projects which require the ability to effectively direct architects, consultants, contractors, and/or subcontractors on a daily basis. Some recent project experience by PMSI includes Four Points Centre (Austin), City West Place (Houston), Brookhollow Central (Houston), Peak Academy (Dallas), and The North Hills Preparatory Primary School (Irving). Experience with large, complex proposals and designs have built the foundation for our success with project and construction management. Organization, communication, and experience are key elements to managing any project, and the staff of PMSI has a proven track record of establishing effective communication channels on projects, both formally and informally. As the client representative, PMSI provides a single channel of communication that allows for clear conveyance of information, and provides for the expeditious resolution of critical issues during the progress of the project. PMSI is highly flexible and able to respond effectively to unforeseen issues. Experience, knowledge, and talent in managing the project team of architects, engineers, and other specialty consultants have resulted in the successful completion of our clients projects. PMSI has collaborated with project teams through site development, design analysis, value engineering, and evaluation of alternatives as required to complete complex projects within budget and on schedule. When acting in a project management role, PMSI will manage the owner’s design consultants, prime contractor(s), specialty vendors, and provide the owner with a single, comprehensive status of all construction contracts related to the project. Our experience in managing subcontractors in all trades serves to support our understanding from the perspective of the contractor when overseeing the development of the final design documents and managing contractors during the construction phase. As part of our services, we provide support for owners in the areas of cost estimating, value engineering, constructibility reviews, scheduling, and claims consulting, if necessary. PMSI, is dedicated to quality, timeliness, strict budgeting, and making sure that the services we offer exceed our client’s goals and expectations. We look forward to serving you on your next project. converted by Web2PDFConvert.com HOME ABOUT US PROJECTS SERVICES CONTACT US Services Login Privacy Statement | Terms Of Use Copyright 2008 Project Management Services, Inc. Our Expertise Planning Services Project Management Services, Inc., (PMSI) provides a variety of planning services to our clients, from due diligence and purchase negotiations to fit testing and budgeting. Design Phase PMSI offers comprehensive project management ensuring high standards of regulation and reporting while coordinating the many aspects of complex construction projects. From master planning through design and construction, we focus on the owner’s goals. Our implementation of planning and tracking systems provides the owner with the ability to monitor the progress of a project and provide the assurance that the appropriate controls are in place. We tightly monitor time, cost, and quality parameters. Construction Phase Our project management services include providing time, cost, and quality control from execution of the construction contract to final project completion. We track these parameters using professional management methods and tools. We will manage the A/E team processes including requests for information (RFI’s) responses, the submittal review, and changes through the construction and close-out phases. Managing the owner’s prime contractor(s) and specialty vendors is another service we offer for which we provide the owner with regular consolidated reports on the status of construction contracts and issues related to the project. Cost Estimating PMSI provides cost estimating services as an integral part of comprehensive project management or as a cost estimating consultant. Our experience in managing every facet of the design and construction process makes our firm uniquely qualified to provide accurate budgeting and cost estimating. Claims Consulting Our expertise in claims consulting provides us with the insight for claims avoidance when managing a project. We have the ability to assess and mitigate the impact of claims. Our technical services provide clients with a decided advantage when facing a construction claim. We provide clients with an analysis of the real costs of a claim in order to facilitate a fair and equitable settlement. converted by Web2PDFConvert.com HOME ABOUT US PROJECTS SERVICES CONTACT US Projects > Educational Login Privacy Statement | Terms Of Use Copyright 2008 Project Management Services, Inc. Educational North Hills Preparatory School The North Hills School, located in Irving, Texas, is a public charter school serving grades K-12. Managing the renovation and expansion of an existing school, PMSI helped the North Hills School to create a superior learning environment for its students. From due diligence and land acquisition through construction, PMSI was there to guide the process. Understanding the dynamic constraints of working on an operating school allowed PMSI to bring in a successful project without undue disruption of the learning environment and ongoing operations of the school. The high school has been ranked in the top twenty public high schools by Newsweek for the past three years. The project was completed in the fall of 2006. Peak Advantage High School As an expansion of Peak Preparatory, Peak Advantage added a 21,000 square foot high school to the existing primary school. The primary school was also expanded with an additional 13,650 square foot facility. Located on a 5.26 acre site in Dallas, Texas, the high school includes a new administration area, as well as areas for science, music, art, and a library. In addition to overseeing revisions to the Planned Development, PMSI provided project management for the design and construction of the project. The project was completed on time and under budget. Summit International Preparatory School The renovation of existing classrooms and cafetorium, along with development of a new science building, portable classrooms, and a campus-wide IT infrastructure improvement helped transform this campus into a leading public school in Arlington, Texas. PMSI provided management services from planning and budgeting through turnover to the school. Williams Preparatory School PMSI provided services to manage teams in securing Special Use Permits (SUP) for a 12.9 acre site and manage the design and construction for the adaptive reuse of existing 65,000 and 11,000 square foot office buildings to serve as a K-12 open enrollment charter school, which opened in August, 2007. With the management of master planning and design for a new gymnasium and soccer field, PMSI continues to help the school achieve its goals of providing the highest quality of services to its students. The design of the gymnasium is complete and the soccer field is scheduled for completion in May, 2009. IDEA Public Schools PMSI is providing a full range of services including property acquisition due diligence, program management, master planning, and design and construction management for IDEA Public Schools. IDEA is a premier charter school organization operating in the Rio Grand Valley, Texas. Published recently in Time magazine with schools consistently ranked in the top 50 in the nation, IDEA strives to provide their students with high quality learning environments, geared toward preparing each student for a successful college experience. PMSI is proud to assist IDEA in meeting this challenge. converted by Web2PDFConvert.com BOARD RECAP / STAFF DIRECTION Westlake Academy Item #5 Board Recap / Staff Direction Westlake Academy Item # 6 – Workshop Adjournment Back up material has not been provided for this item. Westlake Academy Item # 2 – Pledge of Allegiance Texas Pledge: "Honor the Texas flag; I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one state under God, one and indivisible." CITIZENS' PRESENTATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS: This is an opportunity for citizens to address the Board on any matter whether or not it is posted on the agenda. The Board cannot by law take action nor have any discussion or deliberations on any presentation made to the Board at this time concerning an item not listed on the agenda. Any item presented may be noticed on a future agenda for deliberation or action. Westlake Academy Item # 3 – Citizens’ Presentations and recognitions CONSENT AGENDA: All items listed below are considered routine by the Board of Trustees and will be enacted with one motion. There will be no separate discussion of items unless a Board member or citizen so requests, in which event the item will be removed from the general order of business and considered in its normal sequence. a. Consider approval of the minutes for the meeting held on February 7, 2011. b. Consider approval of the minutes for the meeting held on February 28, 2011. c. Consider approval of Resolution 11-05, in Support of Making Education a Priority in the Current Texas Legislature’s Budget Deliberations for the Next Biennium. d. Consider approval of Resolution 11-06, Requesting a waiver for Missed Instructional Days. Westlake Academy Item # 4 - Consent Agenda Items BOT Minutes 02/07/11 Page 1 of 4 WESTLAKE ACADEMY BOARD OF TRUSTEES WORKSHOP & REGULAR MEETINGS February 7, 2011 PRESENT: President Laura Wheat and Trustees, Clif Cox, Carol Langdon, and Rick Rennhack. ABSENT: John Miller and Tim Brittan OTHERS PRESENT: Superintendent, Tom Brymer, School Attorney, Janet Bubert, Board Secretary Kelly Edwards, Secondary Principal Rod Harding, Primary Principal Jamie Schmitz, Middle Years Coordinator Tracy Odom, Administrative Services Coordinator Ben Nibarger, Finance Director Debbie Piper, and Assistant to the Superintendent Ginger Awtry. Workshop Session 1. CALL TO ORDER President Wheat called the workshop meeting to order at 5:05 p.m. 2. REVIEW OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS FROM FEBRUARY 7, 2011, TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETING AGENDA. Discussion ensued regarding the calendar discussion not recorded in the January 10, 2011, minutes, the use of the current calendar available online and the possibility of including additional annual events on the calendar and the contract to retain Jody Richardson for State legislative support services. 3. DISCUSSION ITEMS a. Discussion of Council Relations Policy as it Relates to Amendment to Assist in Town Council/Board Meeting Structure and Effectiveness. Superintendent Brymer provided an overview of the recommendations amending the Council/Board relations policy. BOT Minutes 02/07/11 Page 2 of 4 Discussion ensued how to determine if an item should be a discussion or report item and items that may be considered an administrative item and when those items may be considered a Future Agenda Item. b. Discussion of Strategic Plan Guiding Board Meetings Superintendent Brymer provided an overview regarding the process of moving forward to align the strategic plan using a balanced scorecard. c. Discussion of Next State Bienium Budget on Westlake Academy FY 11-12 and FY 12-13. Superintendent Brymer provided an overview of possible future Academy possible future revenue and expenditure scenarios to manage any reductions should the State cut funding for the next school year. d. Discussion of board of trustee governance as illustrated in Dr. Brian Carpenter’s Charter School Board University: An introduction to effective charter school governance; Chapters 14-15. The Board reviewed and discussed the questions in Chapters 14 and 15 as they relate to the academy. The Board then discussed in detail the questions on page 101 as they relate to how well academy students are performing and the different ways to measure the success of our students. 4. REPORTS a. Sir Ken Robinson Creativity and Innovation in Education Presentation at Westlake Academy. b. Summary of Part 2 of Main Conclusions to MYP Self-study. Trustee Cox asked Principal Harding to further explain the MYP Self-study report. Principal Harding and MYP Coordinator Odom provided an overview of the report and the collaboration of the Board Members, students, faculty and parents. 5. BOARD RECAP / STAFF DIRECTION Continue moving forward with the Strategic Plan and balanced score card alignment and the Council/Board Relations policy. BOT Minutes 02/07/11 Page 3 of 4 6. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, President Wheat adjourned the workshop at 7:31 p.m. Regular Session 1. CALL TO ORDER President Wheat called the Regular meeting to order at 7:31 p.m. with Trustee Brittan absent. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE President Wheat led the pledge of allegiance to the United States and Texas flags. 3. CITIZENS' PRESENTATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS No one addressed the Board. 4. CONSENT AGENDA a. Consider approval of the minutes for the meeting held on January 10, 2010. b. Consider approval of Resolution 11-03, Retaining Jody Richardson of Allen, Boone, Humphries, Robinson, LLP, Attorneys at Law for Certain State Legislative Support Services. MOTION: Trustee Rennhack made a motion to approve the consent agenda with revisions as discussed. Trustee Langdon seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 3-0. 5. BOARD CALENDAR - Sir Ken Robinson March 2, 2011, WA Gymnasium, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. - Board of Trustee Meeting March 7, 2011 6. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS - None BOT Minutes 02/07/11 Page 4 of 4 7. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, President Wheat asked for a motion to adjourn. MOTION: Trustee Rennhack made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Trustee Cox seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 3-0. President Wheat adjourned the meeting at 7:34 p.m. APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES ON MARCH 10, 2011. ____________________________ Laura Wheat, Board President ATTEST: _____________________________ Kelly Edwards, Board Secretary BOT Minutes 02/28/11 Page 1 of 2 WESTLAKE ACADEMY BOARD OF TRUSTEES SPECIAL MEETING February 28, 2011 PRESENT: President Laura Wheat and Trustees, Tim Brittan, Clif Cox, Carol Langdon, and Rick Rennhack. ABSENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Superintendent, Tom Brymer, School Attorney, Stan Lowry, Board Secretary Kelly Edwards, Finance Director Debbie Piper, Public Works Director Jarrod Greenwood, and Facilities and Recreation Director Troy Meyer. Regular Session 1. CALL TO ORDER President Wheat called the meeting to order at 7:09 p.m. 2. CONSIDER A RESOLUTION REJECTING BIDS FOR PORTABLE CLASSROOMS FOR THE ACADEMY. Facilities and Recreation Director Meyer stated that two bids were submitted. One of those was bids was submitted after the deadline. MOTION: Trustee Cox made a motion to approve Resolution 11-04. Trustee Langdon seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 4-0. BOT Minutes 02/28/11 Page 2 of 2 3. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the Board, President Wheat asked for a motion to adjourn. MOTION: Trustee Rennhack made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Trustee Brittan seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 4-0. President Wheat adjourned the meeting at 7:13 p.m. APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES ON MARCH 10, 2011. ____________________________ Laura Wheat, Board President ATTEST: _____________________________ Kelly Edwards, Board Secretary Page 1 of 1 WESTLAKE ACADEMY AGENDA ITEM Curriculum: PYP/MYP/DP Meeting Date: March 4, 2011 Staff Contact: Tom Brymer Consent Subject: Consideration of a Resolution in Support of Making Education a Priority in the Current Texas Legislature’s Budget Deliberations for the Next Biennium. With the current fiscal crunch in Austin, many legislators are proposing large spending reductions in public education. Westlake Academy wishes to join Aledo ISD and over 581 other public school districts in stating our support for Making Education a Priority. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY High Student Achievement APPLICABLE STRATEGIC PLAN DESIRED OUTCOME Strong Parent & Community Connections Financial Stewardship & Sustainability Student Engagement – Extracurricular activities Effective Educators & Staff Academic Achievement WESTLAKE ACADEMY VALUES PYP, MYP, DP (IB Continuum) Caring Environment Fiscal Stewardship Communication/Transparency Engaged Stakeholders Maximizing Each Child’s Potential Funded Not Funded N/A FISCAL IMPACT Funding reduction proposals currently under consideration by the State Legislature will have a huge adverse impact on all Texas public schools, including Westlake Academy. Approve the resolution entitled Making Education a Priority RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED/ OPTIONS Resolution ATTACHMENTS Resolution 11-05 Page 1 of 1 WESTLAKE ACADEMY RESOLUTION 11-05 A RESOLUTION OF THE WESTLAKE ACADEMY BOARD OF TRUSTEES IN SUPPORT OF MAKING EDUCATION A PRIORITY IN THE CURRENT TEXAS LEGISLATURE’S BUDGET DELIBERATIONS FOR THE NEXT BIENNIUM. WHEREAS, the current Texas public school finance system is negatively affecting an increasing number of public schools; and, WHEREAS, past diligent legislative efforts to address the state’s method of adequately and equitably funding Texas schools has fallen short of broad measured success; and WHEREAS, the legislative year of 2011 bears the attributes of repeating the 2009 legislative session’s lack of reliable funding improvement NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF WESTLAKE ACADEMY: RESOLVED, that a responsible community of educational leaders with a united awareness respectfully empower and support our respected legislative representatives to act; and be it RESOLVED, that in light of our current Texas economic challenges and the complexity of financing public education; improvements in school funding be established with an attitude where education is found as the highest priority; and be it RESOLVED, this attitude begins within the leadership of Texas public schools and together, we respectfully share one unified message to all involved: Make Education a Priority. PASSED AND APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF WESTLAKE ACADEMY, A CHARTER SCHOOL OF THE STATE OF TEXAS, ON THE 10th DAY OF MARCH, 2011. ATTEST: ___________________________________ Laura Wheat, President ________________________________ Kelly Edwards, Board Secretary ___________________________________ APPROVED AS TO FORM Thomas E. Brymer, Superintendent ________________________________ L. Stanton Lowry, School Attorney Page 1 of 2 WESTLAKE ACADEMY AGENDA ITEM Curriculum: PYP/MYP/DP Meeting Date: March 10, 2011 Staff Contact: Jamie Schmitz Consent Subject: Missed Instructional Day Waiver The record breaking winter weather in February of this year resulted in the closure of Westlake Academy for five instructional days. Mike Peebles, the Director of Waivers with the TEA, recommended that Westlake Academy complete the application for Missed Instructional Day Waiver and present a plan on how we will make-up the lost student instructional time and teacher work days. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The TEA requires that two of the five days be scheduled for make-up prior to filing for the Missed Instructional Day Waiver. April 11 and 22, 2011 will be utilized as instructional make- up days, meeting the TEA requirements. The remaining three instructional days will be funded through the waiver and the instructional time will be made-up through a combination of extending half days to full days and capturing non-instructional time within the day and using it for instructional purposes. The teacher’s contracted work days will be made-up through two Saturday professional development days on April 2, 2011 and May 7, 2011 and extending teacher work days after the end of the school year through June 7, 2011. High Student Achievement APPLICABLE STRATEGIC PLAN DESIRED OUTCOME Strong Parent & Community Connections Financial Stewardship & Sustainability Student Engagement – Extracurricular activities Effective Educators & Staff Academic Achievement WESTLAKE ACADEMY VALUES PYP, MYP, DP (IB Continuum) Caring Environment Fiscal Stewardship Communication/Transparency Engaged Stakeholders Maximizing Each Child’s Potential Page 2 of 2 FISCAL IMPACT Funded Not Funded N/A RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED/ OPTIONS Approve the application for missed instructional days. ATTACHMENTS Resolution with exhibits Agreement Make-up plan Resolution 11-06 Page 1 of 1 WESTLAKE ACADEMY RESOLUTION 11-06 A RESOLUTION OF THE WESTLAKE ACADEMY BOARD OF TRUSTEES REQUESTING A WAIVER FOR MISSED INSTRUCTIONAL DAYS FOR WESTLAKE ACADEMY. WHEREAS, the Westlake Academy Board of Trustees has considered the proposed Application for Missed Instructional Days Waiver; and, WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees finds that the passage of this Resolution is in the best interest of the citizens of Westlake as well as the students, their parents, and faculty of Westlake Academy. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF WESTLAKE ACADEMY: SECTION 1: THAT, all matters stated in the Recitals hereinabove are found to be true and correct and are incorporated herein by reference as if copied in their entirety. SECTION 2: THAT, the Board of Trustees Westlake Academy, hereby approves the attached Application for Missed Instructional Days Waiver for Westlake Academy attached to this resolution as Exhibit “A”. SECTION 3 : If any portion of this Resolution shall, for any reason, be declared invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity shall not affect the remaining provisions hereof and the Council hereby determines that it would have adopted this Resolution without the invalid provision. SECTION 4: That this resolution shall become effective upon the date of its passage, but contingent upon approval by the TEA. PASSED AND APPROVED ON THIS 10th DAY OF MARCH, 2010. ATTEST: ___________________________________ Laura Wheat, President ________________________________ Kelly Edwards, Board Secretary ___________________________________ APPROVED AS TO FORM: Thomas E. Brymer, Superintendent ________________________________ L. Stanton Lowry, School Attorney 09-08-10 TEA Policy Regarding MAKE-UP DAYS for 2010-11 Scenario: TEA Policy: Missed more than two (2) instructional days for weather/heath/safety reasons. Two (2) make-up days are required to be used. Approval to excuse additional days must be requested.* District forced to close only SOME campuses for one or more days because of a weather-related occurrence or a health/safety issue. Days missed do not have to be made up. Not necessary to request that a day missed at a campus be made up. Missed one or more days do to bad weather after scheduled make-up day(s) has (have) already passed and were not used for make-up days. Day(s) missed (up to two) must be made up, even if the day(s) set aside for make-up has(have) passed. Below average attendance on a make-up day. Day(s) will not be excused. TEA does not grant attendance excuses for low attendance on a make-up day. Closed campus all day for UIL academic district competition. Day(s) does (do) not need to be made up. District wants to have an early release day on their make-up day(s). An early release on a make-up day will not be allowed. All other requests will be forwarded to the TEA Waivers Office (512/463-9630). *APPLICATION FOR MISSED INSTRUCTIONAL DAYS 2010-2011 SCHOOL YEAR form is available on the State Waivers Unit website at http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index2.aspx?id=6637&menu_id=932&menu_id2=788. Submit ALL requests or applications no later than June 24, 2011 to State Waivers Unit : Texas Education Agency 1701 North Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701-1494 Fax: 512-475-3666 Student Accounting Handbook, Section (3.8.2) at: Reference: http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index2.aspx?id=7739 PLEASE DIRECT ANY QUESTIONS TO THE STATE WAIVERS UNIT AT (512) 463-9630. 09-08-10 APPLICATION FOR MISSED INSTRUCTIONAL DAYS 2010-2011 SCHOOL YEAR ALL APPLICATIONS SHOULD BE MAILED OR FAXED NO LATER THAN June 24, 2011. THE FAX NUMBER IS (512) 475-3666. State Waiver Unit | Texas Education Agency | 1701 North Congress Avenue | Austin, TX 78701-1494 | Phone (512) 463-9630 General Instructions. For Instructional Days Missed Due to Weather, Health or Safety Issues, please complete Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4. Bolded items in Section 2 and Section 3 must be completed. Please direct questions to the State Waiver Unit at (512) 463-9630 or www.tea.state.tx.us/waivers. Application due no later than June 24, 2011. SECTION 1. PLEASE COMPLETE THIS SECTION. District Name: Westlake Academy County/District No. 220 - 810 Telephone No.(817) - 490 - 5757 Campus Name: Westlake Academy Campus No. - Address: 2600 JT Ottinger Road Fax No.(817) - 490 - 5777 City, State, Zip Westlake, Texas 76262 Contact Person: Ben Nibarger Telephone No.(817) - 490 - 5762 Email: bnibarger@westlakeacademy.org SECTION 2. PLEASE COMPLETE THIS SECTION. Superintendent: Thomas Brymer Dr. Mr. Typed Name Mrs. Ms. Signature Board President: Laura Wheat Typed Name Signature Date Board Approval: Board Vote – For Against Abstain Absent SECTION 3. PLEASE COMPLETE THIS SECTION FOR ALL WAIVERS. Comments of appropriate Site-Based Decision Making Committee: The roads and campus facility were covered with ice. The temperatures were sub-zero for several consecutive days, making travel to and from school and the campus environment unsafe. Every school in the North Texas region was impacted and closed during this time. SBDM Committee Chairperson Signature SECTION 4. PLEASE COMPLETE THIS SECTION FOR DATES AND REASONS FOR DAYS MISSED. Missed Instructional Days, pursuant to TEC §25.081. Allows the district or campus to request a waiver if instructional days are missed due to weather, health, or safety related issues be excused. The first two days missed for any reason must be made up. Reason Date(s) (mm/dd/yy) Explanation Weather 2/01-04/11 2/09/11 Nationwide winter weather conditions made travel and campus unsafe. Nationwide winter weather conditions made travel and campus unsafe. Health Safety Other Westlake Academy _____________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________ 2600 JT Ottinger Rd.  Westlake, Texas 76262 Main 817-490-5757  Fax: 817-490-5758  www.westlakeacademy.org 3/4/11 Please see below for the planned changes to make up instructional time and missed teacher contract days. • To make up instructional time:  May 11th, 2011 will be a full day of instruction (whole school);  5/31/11-6/2/11 will be full days of instruction (whole school-this change only affects secondary);  Secondary classes will forgo the 15 minute morning break for 24 consecutive days, beginning 3/7/11;  Primary classes will implement a more structured (read instructional) outdoor afternoon break for the remainder of the 10/11 academic year. • To make up teacher contract time:  Two half day professional development Saturdays (4/2/11 and 5/7/11) plus required faculty attendance on 6/6/11 and 6/7/11. Jamie Schmitz Primary Principal/Campus Coordinator BOARD CALENDAR o Trustee Meeting April 4, 2011 o Town Offices Closed April 22, 2011 (Good Friday) o WA Senior Dinner June 2, 2011, Petroleum Club, Fort Worth - 7:00-10:00 p.m. o WA Graduation June 4, 2011, Hurst Convention Center - 2:00 p.m. Westlake Academy Item #5 Board Calendar FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: Any Board member may request at a workshop and / or Board meeting, under “Future Agenda Item Requests”, an agenda item for a future Board meeting. The Board member making the request will contact the CEO with the requested item and the CEO will list it on the agenda. At the meeting, the requesting Board member will explain the item, the need for Board discussion of the item, the item’s relationship to the Board’s strategic priorities, and the amount of estimated staff time necessary to prepare for Board discussion. If the requesting Board member receives a second, the CEO will place the item on the Board agenda calendar allowing for adequate time for staff preparation on the agenda item. - None Westlake Academy Item # 6 – Future Agenda Items Westlake Academy Item # 7 – Adjournment Back up material has not been provided for this item.