HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-01-10 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.
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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 1, 2010
WESTLAKE TOWN HALL
3 VILLAGE CIRCLE – 2ND
COUNCIL CHAMBERS/MUNICIPAL COURT ROOM
FLOOR
Workshop Session 4:30 p.m.
Regular Meeting 6:00 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER
Workshop Session
2. REVIEW OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS FROM MARCH 1, 2010, TRUSTEES
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA.
Page 2 of 4
(ensuring that operationally inappropriate things are not occurring)
Is everything occurring appropriately?
3. DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION OF THE NEW PRIMARY REPORT, WHICH
WAS DESIGNED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROPOSED PRIMARY
ASSESSMENT AND REPORTING POLICY.
4. FOLLOW-UP DISCUSSION OF BLOCK SCHEDULE FROM THE FEBRUARY 1,
2010 WORKSHOP.
5. DISCUSSION AND REPORT ON HEAD OF PRIMARY SELECTION PROCESS PER
BOARD POLICY.
6. PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION OF A DRAFT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
POLICY RELATIVE TO THE USE OF ACADEMY FACILITIES FOR NON-SCHOOL
AFFILIATE GROUPS.
(concepts and principles that underlie good governance)
How well are the Students doing?
7. DISCUSSION AND REVIEW OF THE WESTLAKE ACADEMY PRIMARY STRINGS
PROGRAM (G2-5).
(concepts and principles that underlie good governance)
Board Assessment and Development
8. DISCUSSION OF BOARD OF TRUSTEE GOVERNANCE AS ILLUSTRATED IN DR.
BRIAN CARPENTER’S AN INTRODUCTION TO EFFECTIVE CHARTER SCHOOL
GOVERNANCE, CHAPTERS 1-2.
9. ADJOURNMENT
Regular Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
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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.
Presentation of a Proclamation recognizing the State Champion
Varsity Girls Basketball Team and the Cross Country Boys & Girls
Teams
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 Board of Trustees meeting held on January 4, 2010.
b. Consider approval of the Board of Trustees meeting held on February 1, 2010.
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 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.
6. BOARD CALENDAR
- Spring Break
March 15-19, 2010
- Bandana Bonanza
May 1, 2010
- Texas Charter Schools Association Conference
May 12-14, 2010
- Westlake Academy Graduation
May 23, 2010
- Decoration Day
May 31, 2010
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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
February 25, 2010, by 5:00 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 Board of Trustees meeting held on January 4,
2010.
b. Consider approval of the Board of Trustees meeting held on February 1,
2010.
Westlake Academy
Item # 2 –
Review of Consent
Agenda Items
Memo
Westlake Academy
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Jamie Schmitz, Head of Primary
Subject: Workshop of March 1st, 2010
Date: February 19th, 2010
Discussion and consideration of the new Primary Report, which was designed in
accordance with the proposed Primary Assessment and Reporting Policy, led by
Westlake Academy Head of Primary, Jamie Schmitz
ITEM
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 citizens.
WESTLAKE ACADEMY MISSION/ VISION STATEMENT
X Academic Achievement
WESTLAKE ACADEMY VALUES
X PYP, MYP, DP (IB Continuum)
Caring Environment
Fiscal Stewardship
X Communication/Transparency
X Engaged Stakeholders
X Maximizing Each Child’s Potential
The purpose of this report is to help all members of the school community understand
and use educational assessment in a consistent and successful way. Our goal is to create a
community that embraces assessment as a valuable and essential part of the learning
cycle.
BACKGROUND (policy implications)
N/A
FUNDING
Recommend that the Board discuss and ask questions about the report and draft policy
presented and determine if it wishes to add, modify, or delete any portion of it. Following
that Board discussion and direction, recommend placing this Primary Assessment and
Reporting Policy on a regular Board meeting for consideration for adoption.
RECOMMENDATION
1. Westlake Academy Primary Assessment and Reporting Policy
ATTACHMENTS:
2. Westlake Academy Primary Report mock-up
1
TOWN OF WESTLAKE
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES POLICY
Policy No. - :
Date Board Adopted:
Date Board Amended: N/A
Effective Date
:
Policy Name
: Primary (K-G6) Assessment and Grade Reporting Policy
Policy Category
: Student Achievement
Policy Goal
: Definition and Transparency in the Primary (K-G6) Student
Assessment and Grading Policy
Policy Description
:
The purpose of this assessment policy is to help all members of the school
community understand and use educational assessment in a consistent and
successful way. Our goal is to create a community that embraces assessment as
a valuable and essential part of the learning cycle.
1) Our Purposes for Using Assessment
a) For learners, assessment does the following:
i) Promotes efficient learning by focusing the student's attention on what is
important
ii) Promotes understanding and life-long learning
iii) Promotes self-evaluation and self-monitoring by the use of well-defined
expectations and criteria
iv) Motivates learning by communicating progress concerning what a student
knows and is able to do
v) Helps understand how school learning relates to present world and future
goals.
b) For teachers, assessment does the following:
i) Provides formative and summative data about student learning
ii) Provides diagnostic data to improve learning
iii) Assists instructional planning by providing informed feedback
iv) Helps to determine teaching effectiveness - what approaches and methods
work
2
TOWN OF WESTLAKE
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES POLICY
Policy No. - (continued)
:
v) Helps to determine whether the program is achieving desired goals (program
accountability)
vi) Is a tool for communicating to others
c) For administrators, assessment does the following:
i) Assists in determining the effectiveness of programs
ii) Assists in determining school and grade-level learning goals
iii) Assists in allocation of resources, including professional development
iv) Monitors student achievement and supports student learning
d) For parents, assessment does the following:
i) Provides formative and summative data about student learning and attainment.
ii) Provides information about the child’s learning experience in school.
iii) Provides information about future educational opportunities.
iv) Helps provide information of the strengths and weaknesses of both the
instructional program and the individual learner.
In consideration of the need to establish relevant and comprehensive grade
reporting and assessment policies for the student body of Westlake Academy,
the following numerical grades will be utilized by the Staff to indicate academic
performance with regard to critical concepts, content and skills
on primary report
cards.
Grade 4 Meets with Excellence
Grade 3 Meets with Proficiency
Grade 2 Developing Proficiency Independently
Grade 1 Requires Support to Meet Proficiency
In addition to the abovementioned, the following descriptors and rubric will be
utilized by the Staff to indicate academic performance with regard to higher
order, conceptual understanding.
These descriptors and rubric will be used to
indicate the level of understanding for each of the six grade level units of inquiry
that are implemented each academic year.
3
TOWN OF WESTLAKE
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES POLICY
Policy No. - (continued)
:
Primary Report Unit of Inquiry Descriptors for Understanding K-3
Accomplished:
Interprets information (data, ideas, or concepts) accurately, appropriately,
and in-depth in a variety of contexts
Applies formulas, procedures, principles, or themes accurately, appropriately,
and/or creatively in a variety of contexts
Explains—accurately and thoroughly—possibly using multiple solutions,
positions, or perspectives that balance opposing points of view
Creates a detailed conclusion or complete solution that is well-supported,
logically consistent, and often unique
Integrates ideas or develops solutions that are clear, coherent, and cohesive
Reflects independently and thoughtfully by using supporting details and
examples. Uses the reflective process to set goals and targets.
Perceives and approaches problems in a number of different ways, often
exhibiting clever, unique or unusual ideas.
Competent/Consolidating:
Presents information (data, ideas, or concepts) accurately and appropriately
in familiar contexts
Applies formulas, procedures, principles, or themes accurately and
appropriately in familiar contexts
Describes a solution, position, or perspective accurately
Organizes a conclusion or solution that is complete, logical, and consistent
with evidence presented
Connects ideas or develops solutions in a clear and coherent order
Reflects thoughtfully by using some supporting details and examples. Uses
the reflective process to set general goals.
Developing:
Reports information (data, ideas, or concepts) in familiar contexts with minor
inaccuracies, irrelevancies, or omissions
Uses appropriate formulas, procedures, principles, or themes in familiar
contexts with only minor inaccuracies
Identifies a simple solution or a perspective with only minor inaccuracies
Offers an abbreviated conclusion or simple solution that is mostly consistent
with the evidence presented, with minor inconsistencies or omissions
Arranges ideas or solutions into a simple pattern
TOWN OF WESTLAKE
4
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES POLICY
Policy No. - (continued)
:
Reflects thoughtfully with some assistance.
Beginning/Novice:
Copies information (data, ideas, or concepts)
Labels formulas, procedures, principles, or themes
Names a single solution, position, or perspective
Attempts a conclusion or solution that is consistent with evidence presented
Lists ideas or expresses solutions in a fragmentary/random manner
Reflects with support and assistance
Primary Report Unit of Inquiry Descriptors for Understanding Grades 4-6
Accomplished:
Interprets information (data, ideas, or concepts) accurately, appropriately,
and in-depth in a variety of contexts
Applies formulas, procedures, principles, or themes accurately, appropriately,
and/or creatively in a variety of contexts
Explains—accurately and thoroughly—multiple solutions, positions, or
perspectives that balance opposing points of view
Creates a detailed conclusion or complex solution that is complete, well-
supported, logically consistent, and often unique
Integrates ideas or develops solutions that are exceptionally clear, coherent,
and cohesive
Reflects independently and thoughtfully by using supporting details and
examples. Uses the reflective process to set goals and targets.
Perceives and approaches problems in a number of different ways, often
exhibiting clever, unique or unusual ideas.
Competent/Consolidating:
Presents information (data, ideas, or concepts) accurately and appropriately
in familiar contexts
Applies formulas, procedures, principles, or themes accurately and
appropriately in familiar contexts
Describes two or more solutions, positions, or perspectives accurately
Organizes a conclusion or solution that is complete, logical, and consistent
with evidence presented
Connects ideas or develops solutions in a clear and coherent order
Reflects thoughtfully by using some supporting details and examples. Uses
the reflective process to set general goal
TOWN OF WESTLAKE
5
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES POLICY
Policy No. - (continued)
:
Developing:
Reports information (data, ideas, or concepts) in familiar contexts with minor
inaccuracies, irrelevancies, or omissions
Uses appropriate formulas, procedures, principles, or themes in familiar
contexts with only minor inaccuracies
Identifies simple solutions, over-simplified positions, or perspectives with only
minor inaccuracies
Offers an abbreviated conclusion or simple solution that is mostly consistent
with the evidence presented, with minor inconsistencies or omissions
Arranges ideas or solutions into a simple pattern
Reflects thoughtfully with some assistance
Beginning/Novice:
Copies information (data, ideas, or concepts)
Labels formulas, procedures, principles, or themes
Names a single solution, position, or perspective
Attempts a conclusion or solution that is consistent with evidence presented
Lists ideas or expresses solutions in a fragmentary/random manner
Reflects with support and assistance
Staff will administer a variety of authentic assessments to measure student
understanding and progress throughout the year
IBPYP Attitudes
– Students, in collaboration with teachers, will assign a letter
indicator to at least six (6) IBPYP Attitudes per quarter to communicate the
following:
C = I practice consistently the following attitudes
W = I am working on the following attitudes
The IBPYP Attitudes are as follows:
• Appreciation: appreciating the wonder and beauty of the world and its
people
• Commitment: being committed to their learning, preserving and showing
self-discipline and responsibility
6
TOWN OF WESTLAKE
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES POLICY
Policy No. - (continued)
:
• Confidence: feeling confident in their ability as learners, having the
courage to take risks, applying what they have learned and making
appropriate decisions
• Cooperation: cooperating, collaborating and leading or following as the
situation demands
• Creativity: being creative and imaginative in their thinking and in their
approach to problems and dilemmas
• Curiosity: being curious about the nature of learning and the world, its
people and cultures
• Empathy: imaginatively projecting themselves into another’s situation, in
order to understand his/her thoughts, reasoning and emotions
• Enthusiasm: enjoying learning
• Independence: thinking and acting independently, making their own
judgments based on reasoned principles and being able to defend their
judgments
• Integrity: having integrity and a firm sense of fairness and honesty
• Respect: respecting themselves, others and the world around them
• Tolerance: feeling sensitivity towards differences and diversity in the world
and being responsive to the needs of others
7
TOWN OF WESTLAKE
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES POLICY
Policy No. - (continued)
:
Specialist Grades
• Concepts and Knowledge
– Specialist Teachers (Art, Strings, P.E., Music, and Spanish)
will grade according to the following categories:
• Skills
• Attitude
• Works with Commitment and Enthusiasm
• Cooperates in Groups
• Works Independently
Each of the aforementioned categories will be graded utilizing the following
indicators:
Grade 4 Meets with Excellence
Grade 3 Meets with Proficiency
Grade 2 Developing Proficiency Independently
Grade 1 Requires Support to Meet Proficiency
Report Cards
- Westlake Academy will send home four (4) primary report cards
each year. The report cards will be sent home at the end of each nine (9) week
grading period.
Parent Teacher Meetings
– Staff will conduct two (2) parent/teacher conferences
per year − one (1) each semester, and one (1) student-led conference - in
semester two (2). This will allow parents to meet with teachers to briefly discuss
their child’s progress, and, in the case of student-led conferences, witness the
demonstration of understanding firsthand. Additional concerns will be addressed
at individually scheduled conferences available at any time during the school
year.
Teacher: Student: Grade: Year/Semester:
Primary Years Program Units of Inquiry for Grade:
*Please refer to ‘Levels of Understanding’ descriptors on the following page
Transdisciplinary Theme/Name/Central Idea Level of Understanding/Narrative
Trans. Theme-
Name-
Central Idea-
Dates-
Level of Understanding-
Comments (teamwork, questioning skills etc.)-
Trans. Theme-
Name-
Central Idea-
Dates-
Level of Understanding-
Comments (teamwork, questioning skills etc.)-
Trans. Theme-
Name-
Central Idea-
Dates-
Level of Understanding-
Comments (teamwork, questioning skills etc.)-
Trans. Theme-
Name-
Central Idea-
Dates-
Level of Understanding-
Comments (teamwork, questioning skills etc.)-
Trans. Theme-
Name-
Central Idea-
Dates-
Level of Understanding-
Comments (teamwork, questioning skills etc.)-
Trans. Theme-
Name-
Central Idea-
Dates-
Level of Understanding-
Comments (teamwork, questioning skills etc.)-
Primary Report Card 2009-2010
Name: Home Room: Report Period:
Teacher: Student: Grade: Year/Semester:
Primary Years Program Critical Concepts, Content and Skills
Key
*The following section reports directly on achievement relating to
discipline specific critical concepts, content and skills
Grade 4 Meets with Excellence
Grade 3 Meets with Proficiency
Grade 2 Developing Proficiency Independently
Grade 1 Requires Support to Meet Proficiency
Language Arts
Reading Grade:
Strengths Areas in Need of Strengthening
Writing Grade:
Strengths Areas in Need of Strengthening
Listening and Speaking Grade:
Strengths Areas in Need of Strengthening
Teacher: Student: Grade: Year/Semester:
Primary Years Program Critical Concepts, Content and Skills
Key
*The following section reports directly on achievement relating to
discipline specific critical concepts, content and skills
Grade 4 Meets with Excellence
Grade 3 Meets with Proficiency
Grade 2 Developing Proficiency Independently
Grade 1 Requires Support to Meet Proficiency
Language Arts
Viewing and Presenting Grade:
Strengths Areas in Need of Strengthening
Language Arts Comments:
Mathematics
Number Grade:
Strengths Areas in Need of Strengthening
Teacher: Student: Grade: Year/Semester:
Primary Years Program Critical Concepts, Content and Skills
Key
*The following section reports directly on achievement relating to
discipline specific critical concepts, content and skills
Grade 4 Meets with Excellence
Grade 3 Meets with Proficiency
Grade 2 Developing Proficiency Independently
Grade 1 Requires Support to Meet Proficiency
Mathematics
Measurement Grade:
Strengths Areas in Need of Strengthening
Shape and Space Grade:
Strengths Areas in Need of Strengthening
Data Handling Grade:
Strengths Areas in Need of Strengthening
Teacher: Student: Grade: Year/Semester:
Primary Years Program Critical Concepts, Content and Skills
Key
*The following section reports directly on achievement relating to
discipline specific critical concepts, content and skills
Grade 4 Meets with Excellence
Grade 3 Meets with Proficiency
Grade 2 Developing Proficiency Independently
Grade 1 Requires Support to Meet Proficiency
Mathematics
Pattern and Function Grade:
Strengths Areas in Need of Strengthening
Mathematics Comments:
Science
Science Grade:
Strengths Areas in Need of Strengthening
Teacher: Student: Grade: Year/Semester:
Primary Years Program Critical Concepts, Content and Skills
Key
*The following section reports directly on achievement relating to
discipline specific critical concepts, content and skills
Grade 4 Meets with Excellence
Grade 3 Meets with Proficiency
Grade 2 Developing Proficiency Independently
Grade 1 Requires Support to Meet Proficiency
Science
Science Comments:
Social Studies
Social Studies Grade:
Strengths Areas in Need of Strengthening
Social Studies Comments:
Teacher: Student: Grade: Year/Semester:
Primary Years Program Student Attitudes
Key
*The following section is focused on the PYP Student Attitudes and is a result of
collaboration between the class teacher and the student.
At least six (6) IBPYP Attitudes will be Graded Every Quarter
C I practice consistently the following attitudes
W I am working on the following attitudes
PYP Student Attitudes
PYP Attitude Description Quarter
1
Quarter
2
Quarter
3
Quarter
4
Appreciation Appreciating the wonder and beauty of the
world and its people
Commitment Being committed to their learning, preserving
and showing self-discipline and responsibility
Confidence
Feeling confident in their ability as learners,
having the courage to take risks, applying what
they have learned and making appropriate
decisions
Cooperation Cooperating, collaborating and leading or
following as the situation demands
Creativity Being creative and imaginative in their thinking
and in their approach to problems and dilemmas
Curiosity Being curious about the nature of learning and
the world, its people and cultures
Empathy
Imaginatively projecting themselves into
another’s situation, in order to understand
his/her thoughts, reasoning and emotions
Enthusiasm Enjoying learning
Independence
Thinking and acting independently, making
their own judgments based on reasoned
principles and being able to defend their
judgments
Integrity Having integrity and a firm sense of fairness
and honesty
Respect Respecting themselves, others and the world
around them
Tolerance
Feeling sensitivity towards differences and
diversity in the world and being responsive to
the needs of others
Teacher: Student: Grade: Year/Semester:
Primary Years Program Specialist Grades
Key
Grade 4 Meets with Excellence
Grade 3 Meets with Proficiency
Grade 2 Developing Proficiency Independently
Grade 1 Requires Support to Meet Proficiency
Academics
Discipline Grade
Concepts and Knowledge
Physical Education
Spanish
Art
Music
Strings
Skills
Physical Education
Spanish
Art
Music
Strings
Attitude
Discipline Grade
Works with Commitment and Enthusiasm
Physical Education
Spanish
Art
Music
Strings
Cooperates in Groups
Physical Education
Spanish
Art
Music
Strings
Works Independently
Physical Education
Spanish
Art
Music
Strings
*Please Note: These levels relate to the Units of Inquiry only
PYP Levels of Understanding Grades K-3
Accomplished:
Interprets information (data, ideas, or concepts) accurately, appropriately,
and in-depth in a variety of contexts
Applies formulas, procedures, principles, or themes accurately, appropriately,
and/or creatively in a variety of contexts
Explains—accurately and thoroughly—possibly using multiple solutions,
positions, or perspectives that balance opposing points of view
Creates a detailed conclusion or complete solution that is well-supported,
logically consistent, and often unique
Integrates ideas or develops solutions that are clear, coherent, and cohesive
Reflects independently and thoughtfully by using supporting details and
examples. Uses the reflective process to set goals and targets.
Perceives and approaches problems in a number of different ways, often
exhibiting clever, unique or unusual ideas.
Competent/Consolidating:
Presents information (data, ideas, or concepts) accurately and appropriately
in familiar contexts
Applies formulas, procedures, principles, or themes accurately and
appropriately in familiar contexts
Describes a solution, position, or perspective accurately
Organizes a conclusion or solution that is complete, logical, and consistent
with evidence presented
Connects ideas or develops solutions in a clear and coherent order
Reflects thoughtfully by using some supporting details and examples. Uses
the reflective process to set general goals.
Developing:
Reports information (data, ideas, or concepts) in familiar contexts with minor
inaccuracies, irrelevancies, or omissions
Uses appropriate formulas, procedures, principles, or themes in familiar
contexts with only minor inaccuracies
Identifies a simple solution or a perspective with only minor inaccuracies
Offers an abbreviated conclusion or simple solution that is mostly consistent
with the evidence presented, with minor inconsistencies or omissions
Arranges ideas or solutions into a simple pattern
Reflects thoughtfully with some assistance.
Beginning/Novice:
Copies information (data, ideas, or concepts)
Labels formulas, procedures, principles, or themes
Names a single solution, position, or perspective
Attempts a conclusion or solution that is consistent with evidence presented
Lists ideas or expresses solutions in a fragmentary/random manner
Reflects with support and assistance
*Please Note: These levels relate to the Units of Inquiry only
PYP Levels of Understanding Grades 4-6
Accomplished:
Interprets information (data, ideas, or concepts) accurately, appropriately,
and in-depth in a variety of contexts
Applies formulas, procedures, principles, or themes accurately, appropriately,
and/or creatively in a variety of contexts
Explains—accurately and thoroughly—multiple solutions, positions, or
perspectives that balance opposing points of view
Creates a detailed conclusion or complex solution that is complete, well-
supported, logically consistent, and often unique
Integrates ideas or develops solutions that are exceptionally clear, coherent,
and cohesive
Reflects independently and thoughtfully by using supporting details and
examples. Uses the reflective process to set goals and targets.
Perceives and approaches problems in a number of different ways, often
exhibiting clever, unique or unusual ideas.
Competent/Consolidating:
Presents information (data, ideas, or concepts) accurately and appropriately
in familiar contexts
Applies formulas, procedures, principles, or themes accurately and
appropriately in familiar contexts
Describes two or more solutions, positions, or perspectives accurately
Organizes a conclusion or solution that is complete, logical, and consistent
with evidence presented
Connects ideas or develops solutions in a clear and coherent order
Reflects thoughtfully by using some supporting details and examples. Uses
the reflective process to set general goals
Developing:
Reports information (data, ideas, or concepts) in familiar contexts with minor
inaccuracies, irrelevancies, or omissions
Uses appropriate formulas, procedures, principles, or themes in familiar
contexts with only minor inaccuracies
Identifies simple solutions, over-simplified positions, or perspectives with only
minor inaccuracies
Offers an abbreviated conclusion or simple solution that is mostly consistent
with the evidence presented, with minor inconsistencies or omissions
Arranges ideas or solutions into a simple pattern
Reflects thoughtfully with some assistance
Beginning/Novice:
Copies information (data, ideas, or concepts)
Labels formulas, procedures, principles, or themes
Names a single solution, position, or perspective
Attempts a conclusion or solution that is consistent with evidence presented
Lists ideas or expresses solutions in a fragmentary/random manner
Reflects with support and assistance
1
Memo
Town of Westlake
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Ben Nibarger, Administrative Coordinator
Subject: Workshop Meeting of March 1, 2010
Date: February 24, 2010
Follow-up discussion of Block Schedule From the February 1, 2010 workshop.
ITEM
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 well balanced, responsible citizens.
WESTLAKE ACADEMY MISSION/VISION STATEMENT
Academic Achievement
WESTLAKE ACADEMY VALUES
PYP, MYP, DP (IB Continuum)
Caring Environment
Fiscal Stewardship
Communication/Transparency
Engaged Stakeholders
Maximizing Each Child’s Potential
BACKGROUND
: In the February 1, 2010 workshop, Staff presented several
scheduling options that would allow for more efficient use of facilities and teacher
contact hours. The Board directed the staff to continue researching the impacts of
implementing the scheduling options and come back with additional information
regarding the new course offerings.
Staff has completed a mock schedule and identified a list of proposed courses to add into
the upcoming year’s curriculum, pending the adoption of the new schedule.
FUNDING
: To be presented at the meeting.
RECOMMENDATION
: Following Staff presentation of major issues and decision
points for 2010-11 academic school year, the Staff welcomes Board feedback and
direction.
ATTACHMENTS
: To be presented at the meeting.
Memo
Westlake Academy
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Tom Brymer, CEO
Subject: Workshop Meeting of March 1, 2010
Date: February 24, 2010
Discussion and Report on Head of Primary Selection Process per Board Policy.
ITEM
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 citizens.
WESTLAKE ACADEMY MISSION/ VISION STATEMENT
Academic Achievement
WESTLAKE ACADEMY VALUES
PYP, MYP, DP (IB Continuum)
Caring Environment
Fiscal Stewardship
Communication/Transparency
Engaged Stakeholders
Maximizing Each Child’s Potential
BACKGROUND (including policy implications and options):
Board Policy No. 09-21 (Faculty Attraction and Retention- Responsibility for Personnel
Decisions and Setting Parameters for CEO Regarding Establishment of Managerial
Reporting and Organizational Structure) states: Section d.) “The Board shall have input
into the process utilized by the selection of section head positions.” The purpose of this
agenda will be to carry out this policy with the Board, by informing them on work done
to date with regard to the process being used to fill the Head of Primary vacancy created
by the upcoming resignation of Jamie Schmitz.
FUNDING
: N/A at this time.
RECOMMENDATION
: Hear and discuss the staff report on the progress of this
process to date and provide staff any input the Board wishes give.
ATTACHMENTS
None.
:
Memo
Town of Westlake
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Tom Brymer, Town Manager/CEO of Westlake Academy
Amanda DeGan, Municipal Court Director/Special Projects Coordinator
Subject: Workshop Meeting of March 1, 2010
Date: February 24, 2010
Presentation and discussion of a Draft Board of Trustees Policy relative to the use of Academy
facilities for non-school affiliate groups.
ITEM
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 well balanced,
responsible citizens.
WESTLAKE ACADEMY MISSION/VISION STATEMENT
Not applicable at this time.
FUNDING
For the Board to review and discuss the Draft policy regarding the use of Academy facilities for non-
school affiliate groups and provide Staff with feedback concerning the content of the policy and
consideration for approval at a future meeting.
RECOMMENDATION
ATTACHMENTS:
• DRAFT – Policy concerning use of Academy facilities for non-school affiliated groups
1
TOWN OF WESTLAKE
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES POLICY
Policy No. 10- :
Date Board Adopted:
Date Board Amended: N/A
Effective Date
:
Policy Name
: Use of Academy Facilities by Non-school Related Groups
Policy Category
: Governance
Policy Goal
: Establishment of a policy as it relates to the use of Westlake
Academy campus facilities by auxiliary groups not directly involved in the
educational curriculum of the students.
Policy Description
As the interests and opportunities for student involvement have expanded, the
Board has identified the need to develop a structured policy for the use of
Academy facilities by non-school related groups. These groups should enrich the
school experience of the students and offer them the opportunity to participate in
additional philanthropic based events and organized club meetings which are not
directly involved in the daily educational curriculum of the students.
:
Staff is directed to create an application process to accommodate said groups
and consider the requests according to the order of submittal and available
meeting space and times. The meetings shall be strictly voluntary in their
participation requirements, occur during non-instructional time during the
students’ day and shall not require official staff intervention or facilitation. All
requests by these groups shall be evaluated after first giving priority for campus
facility use to official Academy groups and activities as well as officially
recognized Westlake Academy affiliate organizations (i.e. the Westlake Academy
Foundation, the House of Commons, and the Westlake Academy Athletic
Council).
This policy shall function in tandem with the Facility Use policy and shall abide by
all procedural requirements as set forth in the related Board directives. Any fees
2
required through the Facility Use policy shall be assessed or waived at the
discretion of the Academy’s CEO and/or his or her designee.
Memo
Westlake Academy
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Jamie Schmitz, Head of Primary
Subject: Workshop of March 1st, 2010
Date: February 19th, 2010
Discussion and review of the Westlake Academy Primary Strings Program (G2-5), led by
Head of Primary, Jamie Schmitz, and Primary Strings Teacher, Lisa Redding.
ITEM
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 citizens.
WESTLAKE ACADEMY MISSION/ VISION STATEMENT
X Academic Achievement
WESTLAKE ACADEMY VALUES
X PYP, MYP, DP (IB Continuum)
Caring Environment
Fiscal Stewardship
Communication/Transparency
Engaged Stakeholders
X Maximizing Each Child’s Potential
The primary goal of the Strings Program at Westlake Academy is to develop musical
literacy in our students, using a string instrument as the foundation of learning. Acquiring
proficiency on a string instrument helps us to understand and enjoy the music we hear in
everyday life, as well as providing a vehicle for creative self-expression.
BACKGROUND (policy implications)
The elementary strings program emphasizes the building of technique within a
meaningful context (left/right brain combination learning). The sequence of repertoire is
carefully selected to introduce and develop specific skills.
N/A
FUNDING
N/A
RECOMMENDATION
None.
ATTACHMENTS:
Memo
Westlake Academy
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Tom Brymer, CEO
Subject: Workshop Meeting of March 1, 2010
Date: February 24, 2010
Discussion of Board of Trustee Governance as illustrated in Dr. Brian Carpenter’s An
Introduction to Effective Charter School Governance, Chapters 1-2.
ITEM
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 citizens.
WESTLAKE ACADEMY MISSION/ VISION STATEMENT
Academic Achievement
WESTLAKE ACADEMY VALUES
PYP, MYP, DP (IB Continuum)
Caring Environment
Fiscal Stewardship
Communication/Transparency
Engaged Stakeholders
Maximizing Each Child’s Potential
BACKGROUND (including policy implications and options):
On December 7
th
2010, the Board agreed to place on its future workshop agendas, as
agenda workload permits, the discussion of chapters from Dr. Brian Carpenter’s book, An
Introduction to Effective Charter School Governance. The Board consensus was that
each Board member would take a turn leading the discussion on the topics in Dr.
Carpenter’s book. Board President Wheat agreed to lead the first discussion session
under this format, which will be on Chapters 1 (How We Got Here), and 2
(Accountability Times Two: Part 1- Market Accountability).
N/A
FUNDING
RECOMMENDATION
: The purpose of this agenda item is pursuit of continuous
improvement of the Board’s governance role, in this case utilizing in-house learning
methods and resources. It is recommended that all Board members read Chapters 1and 2
from Dr. Carpenter’s book. Further, come prepared to discuss them in the context of how
this information and material relates to the Board’s governance role for Westlake
Academy.
ATTACHMENTS: None.
Westlake Academy
Item # 9 –
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."
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. The Board will receive the information, ask staff to review the
matter, or an item may be noticed on a future agenda for deliberation or action.
Presentation of a Proclamation recognizing the State Champion Varsity Girls
Basketball Team and the Cross Country Boys & Girls Teams
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 Board of Trustees meeting held on January 4,
2010.
b. Consider approval of the Board of Trustees meeting held on February 1,
2010.
Westlake Academy
Item # 4 - Consent
Agenda Items
BOT Meeting 01/04/10
Page 1 of 4
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES WORKSHOP & REGULAR MEETINGS
January 4, 2010
PRESENT: President Laura Wheat and Trustees Tim Brittan, Carol Langdon, Rick Rennhack
and Rebecca Rollins. Trustee Larry Corson arrived at 4:47 p.m.
ABSENT:
OTHERS PRESENT: Chief Executive Officer Thomas Brymer, School Board Attorney,
Janet Bubert, Secretary Kelly Edwards, Finance Director Debbie
Piper, Head of Secondary Mark Garcia, Head of Primary Jamie
Schmitz, Administrative Services Coordinator Ben Nibarger,
Municipal Court Administrator Amanda DeGan and Director of
Parks and Recreation and Facilities Troy Meyer, Director of
Human Resources and Administrative Services Todd Wood.
1. TO ORDER
Workshop Session
President Wheat called the workshop meeting to order at 4:39 p.m.
2. REVIEW OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS FROM JANUARY 4, 2010, TRUSTEES
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA.
President Wheat asked if there were any comments or questions. – None
3. DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION OF A DRAFT FIVE (5) YEAR STRATEGIC
PLAN FOR WESTLAKE ACADEMY AS WELL AS A 2010 ACADEMY PARENTS’
SURVEY.
Chief Executive Officer Brymer introduced the draft plan and provided an overview of
the process that involved both faculty and staff. He also provided a presentation of the
definitions and explanation for desired outcomes.
BOT Meeting 01/04/10
Page 2 of 4
Discussion ensued regarding the desired outcomes as presented. The Board members
asked specific questions regarding each desired outcome.
The Board gave direction to the staff to provide more specific benchmarks for the
number of students sitting for the exams, how they compare to other IB schools, other
districts and breakdown the percentages further.
The Board asked staff to include Volunteers in their mandatory training before they are
able to volunteer for any school activities.
President Wheat concluded due to time that discussion of this item would be continued
at the next workshop.
4. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the Board, President Wheat adjourned the
workshop at 6:51 p.m.
Regular Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
President Wheat called the Regular meeting to order at 7:09 p.m. with all Trustees
present.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
President Wheat led the pledge of allegiance to the United States and Texas flags.
3. CITIZENS' PRESENTATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS:
- None
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. Consideration of the minutes from the December 7, 2009, meeting.
b. Consideration of Resolution 10-01, Adopting a Policy Regarding International
Faculty Recruitment and Retention.
BOT Meeting 01/04/10
Page 3 of 4
MOTION: Trustee Rennhack made a motion to approve the consent agenda.
Trustee Rollins seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of
5-0.
5. BOARD CALENDAR
- Spirit Week
February 8-12, 2010
- DFW Connector Groundbreaking Ceremony
February 17, 2010 at 11 a.m.
(DFW Connector field office, 440 W. State Highway 114,
Grapevine; Former Grapevine Suzuki dealership)
- Northwest Metroport and Westlake Academy
Social networking event and warm spiced cider!
Thursday – Jan 21st – 4:30 p.m.
- Admissions Lottery
February 24, 2010
- Westlake Academy Gallery Night event
February 26, 2010
- Board Meeting
March 1, 2010
- Spring Break
March 15-19, 2010
- Bandana Bonanza
May 8, 2010
- Texas Charter Schools Association Conference
May 12-14, 2010
- Westlake Academy Graduation
May 23, 2010
6. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
Trustee Langdon provided an overview of each request.
Trustee Langdon Discussion of On-line grading.
MOTION: President Wheat agreed to place the item on a future agenda.
Trustee Langdon Discussion of incorporating the Communication / IT Plans into
the Strategic Plan.
MOTION: President Wheat agreed to place the item on a future agenda.
BOT Meeting 01/04/10
Page 4 of 4
7. EXECUTIVE SESSION
The Council will conduct a closed session under Texas Government Code Chapter 551
for the following:
a. Section 551.071(2) – Consultation with School Attorney on a matter in which
the duty of the attorney to the governmental body under the Texas Disciplinary Rules
of Professional Conduct of the State Bar of Texas clearly conflicts with this chapter
regarding the following: Westlake Academy Admissions Policy.
8. RECONVENE MEETING
9. TAKE ANY NECESSARY ACTION FROM EXECUTIVE SESSION, IF NECESSARY
- No Action Taken
10. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the Board, President Wheat asked for a motion
to adjourn.
MOTION: Trustee Langdon made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Trustee
Corson seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 5-0.
President Wheat adjourned the meeting at 8:04 p.m.
APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES ON FEBRUARY 1, 2010.
____________________________
Laura Wheat, Board President
ATTEST:
_____________________________
Kelly Edwards, Board Secretary
BOT Minutes 02/01/10
Page 1 of 3
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES WORKSHOP & REGULAR MEETINGS
February 1, 2010
PRESENT: President Laura Wheat and Trustees, Larry Corson, Carol Langdon.
Rebecca Rollins arrived at 3:17 p.m. and Rick Rennhack arrived at 3:19 p.m.
ABSENT: Tim Brittan
OTHERS PRESENT: Chief Executive Officer Thomas Brymer, Secretary Kelly Edwards,
Finance Director Debbie Piper, Head of Secondary Mark Garcia,
Head of Primary Jamie Schmitz, DP Coordinator, Stacy Stoyanoff,
Administrative Services Coordinator Ben Nibarger, Municipal
Court Administrator Amanda DeGan and Director of Parks and
Recreation and Facilities Troy Meyer, Director of Human
Resources and Administrative Services Todd Wood.
Workshop Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
President Wheat called the workshop meeting to order at 3:10 p.m.
2. DISCUSSION AND PRESENTATION BY WA FOUNDATION GALLERY NIGHT
COMMITTEE REPRESENTATIVES REGARDING FUND RAISING PLANS FOR AN
ACADEMY BUS PURCHASE.
April Gallagher and Shelly Myer provided an overview of the Gallery Night Fund-An-
Item for the purchase of a bus for the Academy. Discussion ensued on the how
committee will promote the item at Gallery Night, the types of buses, required licensing
and insurance cost.
BOT Minutes 02/01/10
Page 2 of 3
3. DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION OF A DRAFT FIVE (5) YEAR STRATEGIC
PLAN FOR WESTLAKE ACADEMY.
Chief Executive Officer Brymer continued an overview of the process of creating the
plan that involved both faculty and staff. He also provided a presentation of the
definitions and explanation for desired outcomes.
Discussion ensued regarding the desired outcomes as presented. The Board members
asked specific questions regarding each desired outcome and provided feedback for
staff to incorporate into the plan.
President Wheat recessed the meeting at 5:49 p.m.
President Wheat reconvened the meeting at 6:10 p.m.
4. DISCUSSION OF THE WA PARENTS SURVEY FOR THE 2009-10 SCHOOL
YEAR.
Chief Executive Officer Brymer asked the Board to continue to use the survey to gauge
satisfaction levels.
The Board will prepare additional questions and suggestions and submit them to Chief
Executive Office Brymer.
5. DISCUSSION AND PRESENTATION OF FY 2010-11 WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BUDGET OVERVIEW.
This item was discussed prior to item 4 on the agenda.
Chief Executive Officer Brymer and Academy Staff provided a presentation of the five
(5) year forecast, revenue and expenditure breakdowns, proposed equipment and
personnel request, changing the class scheduling process to a block scheduling process
potential new course offerings and financial impacts or the proposed class scheduling.
The Board asked staff to continue to explore these options.
6. DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION OF THE NEW PRIMARY ASSESSMENT
AND REPORTING POLICY.
Head of Primary Schmitz provided a quick overview of the policy how the policy assess
critical knowledge, depth of understanding, and mastering the skill level.
Chief Executive Officer Brymer asked Jamie convert this into a grading report to
present at the next meeting.
BOT Minutes 02/01/10
Page 3 of 3
7. BOARD CALENDAR
- Spirit Week
February 8-12, 2010
- VIP Sponsors Reception for Gallery Night
February 18, 2010 / 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
- Admissions Lottery
February 25, 2010
- Westlake Academy Gallery Night event
February 26, 2010 at 6:00 pm
- Board Meeting
March 1, 2010
- Spring Break
March 15-19, 2010
- Bandana Bonanza
May 8, 2010
- Texas Charter Schools Association Conference
May 12-14, 2010
- Westlake Academy Graduation
May 23, 2010
8. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the Board, President Wheat adjourned the
workshop at 10:37 p.m.
APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES ON MARCH 1, 2010.
____________________________
Laura Wheat, Board President
ATTEST:
_____________________________
Kelly Edwards, Board Secretary
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 # 5 –
Future Agenda
Items
BOARD CALENDAR
- Spring Break
March 15-19, 2010
- Bandana Bonanza
May 1, 2010
o Texas Charter Schools Association Conference
May 12-14, 2010
- Westlake Academy Graduation
May 23, 2010
o Decoration Day
May 31, 2010
Westlake Academy
Item #6
Board Calendar
Westlake Academy
Item # 7 –
Adjournment
Back up material has not
been provided for this item.