HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-09-15 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.
Mission Statement
Westlake Academy is an IB World School whose mission is to provide students with an
internationally minded education of the highest quality so they are well-balanced and
respectful life-long learners.
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WESTLAKE ACADEMY
Vision Statement
Westlake Academy inspires students to achieve their highest individual potential in a nurturing
environment that fosters the traits found in the IB Learner Profile.
Inquirers, Knowledgeable, Thinkers, Communicators, Principled,
Open-Minded, Caring, Risk-takers, Balanced and Reflective
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
AGENDA
February 9, 2015
WESTLAKE TOWN HALL
3 VILLAGE CIRCLE – 2ND FLOOR
WESTLAKE, TX 76262
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
Workshop Session 5:00 p.m.
Regular Session 6:00 p.m.
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Work Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. REVIEW OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS FOR THE FEBRUARY 9, 2015, TRUSTEES
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA.
4. DISCUSSION ITEMS
a. Update on the progress of Language B in the PYP and MYP Programme of Study.
(15 min)
b. Update on the progress of Mathematics in the PYP and MYP. (15 min)
5. BOARD RECAP / STAFF DIRECTION
6. ADJOURNMENT
Regular Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. 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.
3. 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 from the January 12, 2015, meeting.
b. Consider approval of Resolution 15-02, Amending the Board Parameters for
School Sanctioned Trips policy.
4. BOARD CALENDAR
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5. 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.
6. 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.
CERTIFICATION
I certify that the above notice was posted at the Town Hall of the Town of Westlake, 3 Village Circle, on
February 4, 2015, by 5:00 p.m. under the Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government
Code.
_____________________________________
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.
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."
REVIEW OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
a. Consider approval of the minutes from the January 12, 2015, meeting.
b. Consider approval of Resolution 15-02, Amending the Board Parameters for
School Sanctioned Trips policy.
Westlake Academy
Item # 3 –
Review of Consent
Agenda Items
DISCUSSION ITEMS
a. Update on the progress of Language B in the PYP and MYP Programme of
Study. (15 min)
b. Update on the progress of Mathematics in the PYP and MYP. (15 min)
Westlake Academy
Item # 4–
Discussion Items
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WESTLAKE ACADEMY AGENDA ITEM
Curriculum: PYP / MYP Meeting Date: February 9, 2015
Discussion
Staff Contact: Rod Harding Andra Barton, Ed.D.
PYP Principal MYP Principal
Subject: Update on the progress of Language B in the PYP and MYP Programme of Study
UPDATE ON PROGRESS
At the September 2014 Board of Trustees meeting the Administration presented an overview and
direction of Language B in the Primary and Middle Years Programme of Study.
The attached information is part of an ongoing communication to the Board of Trustees. The
areas of discussion in this workshop item will be the identification of the characteristics of a
proficient language learner, analysis of the phasing based on recent AAPPL testing and future
directions to develop the Language B program from K-10.
PLAN DESIRED OUTCOMES
High Student Achievement
Strong Parent & Community
Connections
Financial Stewardship &
Sustainability
ACADEMY VALUES
Maximizing Personal Development
Academic Excellence
Respect for Self and Others
Personal Responsibility
Compassion and Understanding
Effective Educators & Staff
GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK
This report relates directly to Westlake Academy’s Vision of inspiring “students to achieve their
highest individual potential…” and the Mission of “an internationally minded education in the
highest quality…”
FISCAL IMPACT
Funded Not Funded N/A
(i.e. current Language B level of service is funded)
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED/ OPTIONS
No action required at this time as this is a discussion item.
ATTACHMENTS
Progress Report of Language B in the PYP and MYP programmes.
1
Overview of Language B Services
Westlake Academy - 2014-15
Our Language B services at Westlake Academy continue to be a focus of our development as we work to continually improve the content and delivery methods for our students. The overall goal within the language department is to create opportunities for students that align with characteristics of effective foreign language development. The characteristics include:
Standards for Foreign Language Learning The teacher sets high expectations for all students, designs assessment, and organizes instruction to engage and motivate all learners. The teacher and students communicate purposefully in the target language as listeners, speakers, readers, writers, and viewers. There is more student activity than teacher activity, where students are interacting with peers and in groups. Students embrace the Learner Profile by taking risks as language learners because the learning environment is positive and supportive. Student assessment is on-going both formative and summative in the approach. Culture development within the language of study is utilized in all activities. Students and teachers use a variety of resources and are non text-bound during instructional time. Technology should facilitate student learning. * Source: National Association of Foreign Language Instruction As part of the recommendation for the 2014-15 school year students in Grades 5-10 were given an alternative assessment at the end of the school year for language teachers to look at qualitative data related to language progression. The analysis of those scores represented the following trends. Phasing Results Per Year of Study:
Spanish
Grade Number
Total
Phase
1
Phase
2
Phase
3
Phase
4
Phase
5
5 54 6 42 6 NA NA
6 41 9 25 7 NA NA
7 42 4 17 21 NA NA
8 46 5 18 23 NA NA
9 53 2 14 30 6 1
10 50 NA 16 23 9 2
11 58 NA 7 36 15 NA
2
French
Grade Number
Total
Phase
1
Phase
2
Phase
3
Phase
4
Phase
5
7 15 1 14 NA NA NA
8 16 1 2 13 NA NA
9 53 NA 1 1 7 NA
• Our students overall are functioning in phase 2 and 3. Students in phase 2 are considered emergent communicators who are able to understand and respond to simple spoken and written texts. They interact in conversation with limited vocabulary using basic language.
• The students in phase 3 are considered capable communicators. They engage in conversations and are able to write structured texts for different audiences and purposes. We do have a limited number of students functioning in phase 4. These students are again considered capable communicators, however are more fluent in their written and oral communication.
• Our students that are sitting in our phase 1 classes are considered emergent communicators who are able to respond to simple phrases, statements and questions with a very limited range of oral and written vocabulary.
Recommendations Going Forward:
• We are continuing to work to align more effectively our Language B curriculum. As we continue this work, our team is working with Loretta Williams. She is a consultant who has taught foreign language, written curriculum for districts and facilitated teams of Language B teachers in many schools. Our Language B department head, Aurora Morales, and Director of Curriculum, Amanda Cawthra, will be working with Ms. Williams and her recommendations to assist our team of teachers to continue alignment of our Language B program.
• We will be continuing the phasing of our foreign language program using the APPL testing to give us data for placement. Additionally, the team will examine planning for our students who are receiving credits in grade 6, to ensure a learning pathway in Language B.
• Distinct alignment of curriculum K-12. Students should have the opportunity to successfully master 5 levels of Language B TEKS given the new standards from the state.
• Distinct curriculum alignment will allow our students at Westlake Academy the opportunity to be bi-lingual or multi-lingual.
• Students in grades 6 and 7 who are sitting in a phase 2/3 class will have the opportunity to earn a high school credit by exam.
• Reporting of progress within the Language B will continue for PYP and MYP students with the focus of effective feedback being provided for growth development.
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WESTLAKE ACADEMY AGENDA ITEM
Curriculum: PYP / MYP Meeting Date: 2/09/15
Discussion
Staff Contact Rod Harding Andra Barton, Ed.D. Amanda Cawthra
PYP Principal MYP Principal Dir. of Curriculum & Inst.
Subject: Update on the progress of Mathematics in the PYP and MYP
UPDATE ON PROGRESS
At the September 2014 Board of Trustees meeting, the administrative team presented an
overview and direction of Mathematics in the Primary and Middle Years Programmes. In
January 2015, a ‘WA Accountability Report’ was also presented highlighting student academic
performance in the State of Texas Academic Assessment Readiness (STAAR) and the
International School’s Assessment (ISA).
The attached information is part of an ongoing communication to the Board regarding the status
of the written and taught curriculum in the two IB programmes and the future directions of both
sections for the remainder of the year and looking forward to 2015-2016.
PLAN DESIRED OUTCOMES
High Student Achievement
Strong Parent & Community
Connections
Financial Stewardship &
Sustainability
ACADEMY VALUES
Maximizing Personal Development
Academic Excellence
Respect for Self and Others
Personal Responsibility
Compassion and Understanding
Effective Educators & Staff
GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK
This report relates directly to Westlake Academy’s Vision of inspiring “students to achieve their
highest individual potential…” and the Mission of “an internationally minded education in the
highest quality…”
FISCAL IMPACT
Funded Not Funded N/A
(i.e. current Language B level of service is funded)
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED/ OPTIONS
No action required at this time as this is a discussion item.
ATTACHMENTS
Progress Report of Mathematics in the PYP and MYP programmes.
1
MATHEMATICS UPDATE
Westlake Academy
2014-15
Our “One School Together” goal has been to focus on Mathematics for the 2014-15 school year.
Below is a program breakdown of initiatives to date.
Primary Years Programme of Study Update
Texas Regional Collaborative (TRC) Teachers
Nicole Bauer (Grade 3) and Patrice Moon (Grade 5) have spearheaded, with their teaching
teams, innovative ways to model and conceptually develop mathematical proficiency. The
mission of this initiative is to increase mathematical capacity “…. to ensure K-12 mathematics
teachers have the knowledge and skills to engage students in mathematics learning
experiences.”
Influence of Visible Learning
The professional development of staff this year with Visible Learning has provided PYP teachers
with the research of John Hattie. Teachers are immersing themselves as change agents in
systems and structures that can be readily adapted to this philosophy and have an immediate
effect. The areas of t he Visible Learner and feedback have been chosen, as it relates to
assessment and student management systems ‘Can our students explain the assessments they take
and what they tell them about where they are at?’ (The Visible Learner) and ‘Do teachers use
information from student assessments as feedback about the effectiveness of their teaching?’
(feedback). During the PYP assessment week, teachers asked themselves these questions and
shared grade assessment presentations of how they were going to use their assessments for the
remainder of the academic year and spoke about students becoming assessment capable learners
by taking responsibility in identifying where they made errors and why they made them.
Student Survey on How They Feel About Their Teachers
In early December, Grade 3-5 teachers were asked to administer a ‘Feed Forward, Feedback’
survey. The survey’s aim is to see how students felt about their teacher and the instruction they
were provided. This was a broad based survey that indicates student’s needs as learners to the
teacher.
2
Supporting Mathematics Instruction
In Grades 3 - 5 a response to intervention program has begun by the classroom teachers. Grade 4
teachers and Mr. Harding have divided students into 4 groups (approximately 11-13 students) to
reinforce previous learning and extend concepts. Sessions commence at 7:45 a.m. through to
8:30 a.m., Tuesday through Friday. Similar initiatives are taking place in Grade 3 and Grade 5
using planning periods.
Mid-year Reports and Assessments
The ManageBac online system has provided the following data using a 1-4 rating scale used for
the January reports. The following are descriptors for the subject-based curriculum and the table
indicates ratings given by the classroom teacher. An average was taken for each grade area.
Meets with Excellence 4 The learner has extended and constructed new and deeper understanding of grade level expectations. The learner consistently applies knowledge to unfamiliar situations through independent investigation, uses higher-level thinking to communicate understanding through reflections, work samples, and discussions. The learner takes responsibility and sets high standards.
Meets with
Proficiency
3
The learner meets grade level expectations with good understanding. The learner applies knowledge and thinking skills to familiar situations to communicate understanding through reflections, work samples, assessment and discussions.
Developing
Proficiency
2
The learner is approaching a proficient level of understanding in many of the concepts taught. Support is sometimes needed by the teacher to encourage self-directed learning. Grade level expectations of knowledge and skills continue to develop with increasing independence.
Requires Support to
Meet Proficiency
1
The learner is struggling to reach proficiency in many or most of the
concepts taught. Support is regularly given, and is needed to encourage and
guide learning.
The overall rating was averaged at each grade level
Grade Area Rating
Kindergarten 2.75
Grade 1 3.06
Grade 2 3.11
Grade 3 2.94
Grade 4 2.78
Grade 5 3.12
Internal Assessments for January 2015. Assessments include, Observations, Checklists,
Dialogue and Pen and Paper (where age appropriate)
3
Strengths Number Measurement Shape and Space Data
Handling
Kindergarten
Grade 1 Number Facts,
Fractions
Geometry
Grade 2 Place Value,
Counting
Geometry
Grade 3 Want to learn,
Capable
Grade 4 Attitudes, seeing the
relevance
Grade 5 Overall Number,
PV, Number Facts
All Areas
Improvements Number Measurement Shape and Space Data Handling
Kindergarten Counting from
various starting
points, teen
numbers
Grade 1 Place Value,
Subtraction
Time Analyzing data
Grade 2 Computations,
Multi-step
problems, Number
Facts
All Areas Angles
Grade 3 Understanding
numbers, Number
Facts, PV, Pattern
Grade 4 Place Value,
Number Facts,
Problem Solving
Grade 5 Place Value, Multi-
step problems
Initiatives Moving Forward
The PYP teachers have shared many resources and strategies leading up to this report. At
meetings of ‘This Works For Me’ teachers shared approaches that make the difference in student
learning in mathematics as well as peer tutoring (observing others in the classroom). Feedback
and assessment have been a significant factor in moving forward with students determining their
needs and how they go about recognizing the errors they make.
Over this year and in previous years the PYP have used a support mathematics teacher who
teaches from grade 3 through grade 8. While our intentions to extend and support mathematics
improvement are admirable, the amount of time given and the experience needed to deliver
conceptual understanding has in my opinion not come to fruition. What is needed is to target the
early years classes of Kindergarten to 2, as well as Grade 3 through 5. The Texas Regional
Collaborative misses the fact that you cannot hope to improve mathematics standards
4
commencing in the middle years of Primary education. Obviously, this is where the resources
are targeted and follows the belief that teacher development in mathematics is best served at the
test taking grade levels. Research shows that an early years foundation sets up student success in
later years.
How then do we reach the early foundational years? The PYP section believes that a dedicated
interventionist from Kindergarten through grade 5 will make a significant difference. The
difference will not only be in student learning. Staff development and modeling in classes will
provide teachers with real time success in approaches and assessment methods. Dedicated parent
evenings will also be possible.
We are at a time in the PYP that we have educators needing to have a deeper understanding of
how children learn mathematical concepts in a systematic and regular professional learning
environment.
Middle Years Programme of Study Update
Texas Regional Collaborative (TRC) Teachers:
The grant for this program, K-12, was written by Dr. Barton in the spring of 2014. Currently, MYP staff members Jeff Myers (Grade 7) and Saki Milton (Grade 8 and 9) have been involved with the grant. Dr. Barton attended a meeting at the beginning of the month where submission of an application for the upcoming school year will focus on Algebra 1 skills and above.
Collaborative Department meetings: The mathematics department has met several times over the first semester aligning curriculum with the new math TEKS, examining data and trends in mathematics to ensure that student gaps are identified and a plan of action is in place.
Outcome of Department Meeting/ Data Collection and Tracking in Mathematics: In response to math interventions, we have been tracking students in the Middle Years Programme through the RTI process. This is a “Response to Intervention” that identifies students’ needs specific to any course of study however specific attention was placed on mathematics. We have met regularly with teachers, students and parents to identify students who are not performing on level. After examining data in tandem with research related to intervention practices, we determined that students would benefit from additional time in mathematics. This additional time will help to close learning gaps, provide additional time in math, reteach specific content in the curriculum, and deepen their understanding as they move forward. The data we used to identify students were formative and summative assessments, standardized assessments, teacher observations, tutorials and parent conferences. We
5
determined that students in Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2 would greatly benefit from this additional time. The chart below outlines our findings in Grade 6-10:
Course Number of
Students
Identified
Number of
Participants
Attending
Students
whom are
Failing Course
Students
whom are
At-Risk
Grade 6 14 N/A 1 12
Grade 7 23 N/A 3 20
Algebra 1 11 10 6 5
Geometry 14 12 4 10
Algebra 2 37 34 6 31
Plan of Action:
An interview selection committee was created, made up of administration and teachers, to interview and recommend staff for the spring semester for math intervention.
• As a result of our findings, we have hired an additional mathematics teacher to work with students identified. Dee Kamerman was brought on staff to teach an additional math class. Students identified will be attending Ms. Kamerman’s math class during their study hall period in addition to their regularly scheduled math class. Parents were notified of this change in their schedule and classes started Monday, February 2nd.
• A recommendation for hire of a long-term sub was extended to Katie Dredger. She will be working with students in grade 6 and 7 who are identified at risk or failing. Ms. Dredger will work solely within the classroom setting partnering with the mathematics teacher to both enrich and remediate learning for our students.
First Semester Reporting Period:
On Friday, January 23, the MYP semester report cards were sent out to parents electronically and followed up on Monday, January 26 with paper copies sent home with students. With the new changes in our grading policies and practices and the new ManageBac system we wanted to ensure all families had the opportunity to few their child’s report card. Our reports were thorough, provided feedback from teachers and reflections from students.
MYP Moving Forward: Our efforts continue to support our students in mathematics. We are continually assessing how we are supporting our teachers and students to ensure the best mathematical practices. We believe with supported research that more time in mathematics is imperative to student success.
BOARD RECAP / STAFF DIRECTION
Westlake Academy
Item #5
Board Recap /
Staff Direction
Town of Westlake
Item # 6 –
Workshop
Adjournment
Back up material has not
been provided for this item.
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 # 2– 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 from the January 12, 2015, meeting.
b. Consider approval of Resolution 15-02, Amending the Board Parameters for
School Sanctioned Trips policy.
Westlake Academy
Item # 3 - Consent
Agenda
BOT Minutes 01/12/15
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WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
January 12, 2015
PRESENT: President Laura Wheat, Trustees: Alesa Belvedere, Carol Langdon, and Wayne
Stoltenberg. Rick Rennhack arrived at 5:17 p.m. Michael Barrett arrived at
6:10 p.m.
ABSENT:
OTHERS PRESENT: Superintendent Tom Brymer, Assistant to the Superintendent
Amanda DeGan, Board Secretary Kelly Edwards, Executive
Principal & Director of Education Dr. Mechelle Bryson, Diploma
Programme Coordinator Chris Hill, Middle Years Principal Dr.
Andra Barton, Primary Principal Rod Harding, Finance Director
Debbie Piper, WA Foundation Executive Director Shelly Myers,
Jason Power Director of Information Technology, Director of
Communications & Community Affairs Ginger Awtry, Director of
HR & Administrative Services Todd Wood, Public Works Director
Jarrod Greenwood, Fire Chief Richard Whitten, and
Communications Specialist Susan McFarland.
Work Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
President Wheat called the work session to order at 5:07 p.m.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
President Wheat led the pledge of allegiance to the United States and Texas flags.
BOT Minutes 01/12/15
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3. REVIEW OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS FOR THE JANUARY 12, 2015, TRUSTEES
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA.
No additional discussion.
4. CITIZENS' PRESENTATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Coach Alan Burt presented students of the State Volleyball Champion team: Megan Lee,
Meredith McCune, Neena Perdue, Emma Hansen, Diana Hernandez, Emily Moren, Hannah
Deerman, and Savannah Stonecipher.
Mr. Chris Williams presented students of the State Soccer Champion team: Greg Gordon,
Austin Lieber, Chase Griffin, Cole Clark, Don Dunlap, Dalton Bradshaw, Kennedy
Fitzgerald, Sarah Mayhew, and Osman Bukhari.
5. REPORTS
a. Report of the Quarterly Financial “Dashboard” report for the quarter ended November
30, 2014.
Director Piper explained the difference between School Leadership and School
Administration.
6. DISCUSSION ITEMS
a. Presentation and discussion of the FY 2013-2014 annual audit report from Weaver
and Tidwell, L.L.P.
Mr. Jerry Gaither and Mr. John DeBurro provided a presentation and overview of
audit process.
Mr. Gaither provided an overview of the GASB 33 and the accruing of state funding.
Discussion ensued regarding Governmental Accounting Standards Board GASB 33,
the two fiscal year start dates approved Texas Education Agency (TEA),
governmental revenues, expenditures verses local funding, and GASB 68 reporting.
Trustee Rennhack stated that he would like to view a report detailing the last five
(5) years of State and Local funding. The Board agreed.
b. Presentation and discussion of the 2013-14 Annual Report of the Westlake Academy
Foundation and Status of Current Initiatives Supporting the 2014-15 Academic Year.
Dr. Myers and President Karen Stoltenberg provided a presentation and year in
review of the Foundation’s 2013-2014.
BOT Minutes 01/12/15
Page 3 of 5
Discussion ensued regarding the goals for 2015, fund-an-item, and new event Run
the Ranch 5K.
c. Presentation and discussion regarding Technology and an update regarding iPad
mini deployment.
Dr. Bryson and Director Powers provided a presentation regarding the Academy’s
technology.
Discussion ensued regarding professional development, learning networks, the
Digital Learning Academy, TCEA conference, iPad productivity and benefits, creating
digital content, engagement, eye hand coordination of younger students, the Strings
program and insurance on iPads.
Grade 1 teacher Ms. Sarah Firsching provided a presentation regarding the
integration of technology with the IB and great expectations.
Teachers Mrs. Busico-Flight and Ms. Firsching answered questions regarding staff
and collaboration efforts using an iPad.
d. Discussion and proposed amendments to the Board Parameters for School Sanction
Trips.
Assistant to the Superintendent DeGan provided an overview of the proposed
amendments to the policy.
Director of Student Life, Ms. McCown provided a presentation and overview
outlining the trips by grade.
Discussion ensued regarding ad hoc trips and processes and procedures.
7. BOARD RECAP / STAFF DIRECTION
Staff provide a 5 year breakdown showing funding by local, intermediate and the state.
8. ADJOURNMENT
President Wheat adjourned the work session at 7:11 p.m.
BOT Minutes 01/12/15
Page 4 of 5
Regular Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
President Wheat called the regular session to order at 7:11 p.m., with Trustee Langdon
absent.
2. CITIZENS' PRESENTATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS:
No one addressed the Board.
3. CONSENT AGENDA
a. Consider approval of the minutes from the November 17, 2014, meeting.
b. Consider approval of Resolution 15-01, Approving the Fiscal Year 2013-2014
Annual Audit report from Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P.
MOTION: Trustee Stoltenberg made a motion approve the consent agenda.
Trustee Rennhack seconded the motion. The motion carried by a
vote of 4-0.
4. PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING THE ANNUAL EDUCATIONAL PERFORMANCE
REPORT FOR WESTLAKE ACADEMY.
Dr. Bryson and DP Coordinator Hill provided a presentation and overview of the report.
Discussion ensued regarding the correlation of the data in comparison to IB exams, Social
Studies curriculum, IB, ACT and SAT testing results, and correlating graduates data using
the National Student Clearinghouse data.
Dr. Bryson stated that staff would provide additional information, to the Board in March,
related to graduates using the National Student Clearinghouse.
President Wheat opened the public hearing.
No one addressed the board.
President Wheat closed the public hearing.
5. BOARD CALENDAR
Superintendent Brymer provided an overview of the calendar.
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Page 5 of 5
6. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
No future items.
7. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the Board, President Wheat asked for a motion to
adjourn the meeting.
MOTION: Trustee Belvedere made a motion to adjourn the regular session.
Trustee Barrett seconded the motion. The motion carried by a
vote of 4-0.
President Wheat adjourned the regular session at 7:38 p.m.
APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES ON FEBRUARY 9, 2015.
ATTEST:
____________________________
Laura Wheat, President
_____________________________
Kelly Edwards, Board Secretary
Page 1 of 1
WESTLAKE ACADEMY AGENDA ITEM
Curriculum: PYP/MYP/DP Meeting Date: February 9, 2015
Staff Contact: Dr. Mechelle Bryson Consent Agenda
Executive Principal/
Director of Education
Subject: Amendment to the Board Parameters for School Sanctioned Trips
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this item is to update the Board policy as it relates to school sanctioned trips. At
our December meeting, we presented the draft document and discussed with the Board the
proposed changes. The policy document did not require additional language alterations and is
resubmitted via the consent agenda for consideration and approval.
PLAN DESIRED OUTCOMES
High Student Achievement
Strong Parent & Community
Connections
Financial Stewardship & Sustainability
ACADEMY VALUES
Maximizing Personal Development
Academic Excellence
Respect for Self and Others
Personal Responsibility
Compassion and Understanding
Effective Educators & Staff
GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK
Why do we need governance guidance? This is a discussion item. The current policy lacks
clarification and new direction of school requires modification.
Which policy governs this? This falls under our Board Parameters for School Sanctioned Trips
Policy.
What addit ional direction is necessary? A discussion is needed to align the Westlake
Academy’s vision with the vision of the West lake Academy Board of Trustees’ vision.
FISCAL IMPACT
Funded Not Funded N/A
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED/ OPTIONS
Recommend approval and adoption.
ATTACHMENTS
Board of Trustees Policy 6.2 – School Sanctioned Trips
Resolution 15-02
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WESTLAKE ACADEMY
RESOLUTION 15-02
A RESOLUTION OF THE WESTLAKE ACADEMY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
APPROVING AND ADOPTING A POLICY ESTABLISHING PARAMETERS FOR
SCHOOL SANCTIONED TRIPS FOR WESTLAKE ACADEMY.
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees considers school sanctioned trips to be an important
component of the learning environment and an integral concept in pursuing an International
Baccalaureate education; and,
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees wishes to identify grade level trips for planning and
fund-raising purposes, which are specific to Primary and Secondary; and,
WHEREAS, a safe and structured environment is desired for each trip ; 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 the 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 for Westlake Academy, hereby approves the
policy titled, School Sanctioned Trips 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 Board hereby determines that it would have adopted this Resolution wit hout the
invalid provision.
Resolution 15-02
Page 2 of 6
SECTION 4: THAT, this Resolution shall become effective from and after its date of
passage.
PASSED AND APPROVED ON THIS 9th DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2015.
___________________________________
Laura Wheat, President
ATTEST:
________________________________ ___________________________________
Kelly Edwards, Board Secretary Thomas E. Brymer, Superintendent
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
________________________________
Janet S. Bubert or L. Stanton Lowry,
School Attorney
Resolution 15-02
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TOWN OF WESTLAKE
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES POLICY
Policy No. 6.02:
Date Board Adopted: March 9, 2009
Date Board Amended: February 9, 2015
Effective Date: March 9, 2009
Policy Category: Student Achievement
Policy Name: School-Sanctioned Trips
Policy Goal: Students Who Become Well Balanced, Life Long Learners
Policy Description: The Board of Trustees supports Academy-sanctioned trips as a
means to pursue, promote, and enhance IB learning goals for Academy students as set
out in the IB Learner Profile. As such, all school-sanctioned trips should complement
and promote the IB Learner Profile, the IB curriculum, as well as provide direct
educational value to the student participants. In an effort to provide the safest possible
environment for the students of Westlake Academy, this policy for student trips will be
enforced on any travel opportunities that occur away from the property located at 2600
J. T. Ottinger Road, Westlake, TX 76262.
Proposing and Developing Domestic and International Trips
School-sanctioned trip - Any travel opportunity for Westlake Academy students that is
led by the members of the Westlake Academy faculty is considered a school-sanctioned
Westlake Academy trip and must comply with the requirements set forth by this policy
and any applicable administrative procedures for student travel.
The Executive Principal/Director of Education shall be responsible for ensuring
appropriate administrative procedures are developed to ensure effective and efficient
implementation of this board policy. Administrative procedures shall be subject to
approval by the Superintendent.
Resolution 15-02
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I. General Policies
● Trip proposals should be submitted to the Executive Principal or his/her designee
at least 12 months prior to the proposed departure date. Proposals will be
reviewed initially by a committee that includes the Executive Principal,
appropriate Principals, and others as assigned. Acceptable proposals will be
forwarded to the Superintendent for review. The Superintendent will forward
acceptable proposals to the Board of Trustees for final approval.
● Student trips will be limited to travel dates within the Academy’s approved school
calendar.
● An appropriate ratio of faculty to students will be established by the Executive
Principal for all approved trips and will include at least one male and one female
faculty member.
● All chaperones for school-sanctioned trips will be members of the Westlake
Academy faculty and staff. Parents may be provided the opportunity to attend
certain domestic student trips with their child. Such opportunities will be
identified in the information distributed about the trip to Westlake Academy
families.
● Students participating in school-sanctioned trips must be in good standing as
outlined in the Parent/Student Handbook and the Academy’s administrative
procedures for school trips. A student may be restricted from participating in a
school trip at any time that the student’s standing changes. Such restrictions
may result in the forfeiture of payments made to the school prior to the time the
restrictions were imposed.
● All students participating in a school-sanctioned trip must use the transportation
arranged by the Academy. An exception may be made for student’s traveling
with a parent or guardian as identified in the administrative procedures for school
trips.
● A student’s participation in a school-sanctioned trip is a privilege, not a
right. Students participating in school trips are expected to represent Westlake
Academy in a responsible manner. The Academy’s code of conduct and other
expectations identified in the Parent/Student Handbook apply at all times during
school-sanctioned trips. During school trips, students remain subject to the
disciplinary processes contained in the Parent/Student Handbook.
● Trip proposals must include an opportunity for students to share their
experiences with the entire Westlake Academy community.
● Once a proposal is approved, the trip leader(s) will work with the Executive
Principal/Director of Education or his/her designee to ensure all applicable
policies and administrative procedures are followed. All student trips must be
organized in accordance with the requirements established in the Parent-Student
Handbook and other applicable administrative procedures.
Resolution 15-02
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The following trips have been identified as curriculum enhancing trips, which the Board
plans to continue to offer to Westlake Academy students:
Grade Trip Format/Location Occurrence
Primary
K – 2 Local, daytime field trips, no overnights
3 Unit of Inquiry related trip (domestic) Spring
Ex. Camp Tyler, 2 night stay, Whitehouse, TX
5 Unit of Inquiry related trip (domestic) Fall
Ex. Sky Ranch in October, 2 night stay
Secondary
6 Team Building (domestic) Fall
Ex. Camp Eagle, Rocksprings, TX, 3 night stay
7 Unit of Inquiry related (domestic) Fall or Spring
Humanities - Texas History
Ex. Austin, San Antonio, 2 - 3 night stay
8 Historical Trip (domestic) Spring
Humanities (U.S. History)
Ex. Washington D.C.
9 Return to Camp Eagle Fall
Ex. Leadership, team building
10 International Trip (international, European) Spring
Humanities (World History, Human Geography)
11 Team Building (domestic) Fall
Ex. Retreat as “Intro to DP”
12 Senior Weeks Spring
Resolution 15-02
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III. Financing Trips, Insurance, Permissions, etc.
● Participation in school-sanctioned trips is voluntary and all students participating
shall be responsible for all fees and costs associated with the trip.
● Students are also responsible for all incidental costs associated with travel,
including, but not limited to fees associated with transportation to airports or other
departure locations, passport fees, required vaccinations and/or suggested
medications, and money for souvenirs, snacks, and other incidentals.
● Generally, all trip expenses are non-refundable. An explanation of any refund
opportunities will be included in the trip-specific information provided to families
prior to committing to participation on a school-sanctioned trip.
● A student must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian to
participate in any school-sanctioned trip. For each trip, the Academy will also
identify any other documentation that will be required prior to a trip’s departure,
which may include liability waivers, behavior agreements, medical service
authorization form, emergency contact information, and any other information
deemed necessary by the Academy administration. Failure to provide the
required information prior to the departure date may result in denial of the
opportunity to travel and forfeiture of any amounts paid related to the trip.
V. Final Note
All student trip planning is the responsibility of Westlake Academy faculty and staff,
subject to the restrictions of this policy and administrative procedures for student travel.
Parent input is encouraged and will be considered; however, all final decisions will be
made by Academy administrators and the Board of Trustees as identified in this policy.
The Board of Trustee shall always have final approval of all out-of-state, school-
sanctioned trips. Such approval shall consider the immunity laws applicable for the
destination, school and employee liability for damages arising from accidents and/or
injuries that may occur during the trip, the stated educational value of the trip, and
whether participation results from advancement in a regional or national competition.
Northeast Tarrant Transportation Summit (link for workshop/agenda)
Friday, February 13, 2015; 8:30 am – 1:30 pm
Keynote Speaker/Luncheon (11:30 a.m.)-"What's Next in Regional Transportation" by
Victor Vandergriff, Commissioner, Texas Transportation Commission
Hurst Conference Center (Please RSVP to Ginger by Feb 6)
Westlake Academy Closed in observance of Presidents’ Day
Monday, February 16, 2015
Stagecoach Hills Annual Neighborhood Town Meeting
Tuesday, February 17, 2015; 6:30 p.m.
Home of Andrew & Kramer Chung
Metroport Cities Partnership Meeting (Westlake’s turn to host)
Thursday, February 19, 2015; 7:30-9:00 a.m.
Westlake Town Hall in Solana – Council Chambers
WA Fashion Show to benefit Genesis Women’s Shelter (Hosted by student for personal project)
Saturday, February 21, 2015; 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.
WA Multi-Purpose Hall; Contact Faculty Sponsor Amanda Cawthra for more info
Town Council Workshop & Meeting
Monday, February 23, 2015
Westlake Town Hall in Solana – Council Chambers
(Includes Public Hearing regarding proposed adoption of Comp Plan update)
WA Foundation’s Annual Gallery Night
Saturday, February 28, 2015; 6:00 p.m.
Texas Motor Speedway
Future Dates to Note/Calendar:
WA Spring Break – Offices closed
Week of March 9 - 13, 2015
Westlake’s 2015 MasterWorks Spring Concerts
Two Thursdays in April – 9 & 23; Solana’s Village Circle Courtyard
WA Foundation’s Run the Ranch (Circle T)
Saturday, April 18, 2015
Westlake’s Annual Arbor Day Celebration
Saturday, April 25, 2015
WHPS Annual Decoration Day – Location TBA
Monday, May 25, 2015
WA Commencement Ceremony – Hilton Dallas/Southlake Town Square
Saturday, June 6, 2015; 2:00 p.m.
Westlake Academy
Item # 4 –
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 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.
Westlake Academy
Item # 5 –
Future Agenda
Items
Westlake Academy
Item # 6 –
Adjournment
Back up material has not
been provided for this item.