HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-05-10 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
April 5, 2010
WESTLAKE TOWN HALL
3 VILLAGE CIRCLE – 2ND FLOOR
COUNCIL CHAMBERS/MUNICIPAL COURT ROOM
Workshop Session 4:30 p.m.
Regular Session 6:00 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER
Workshop Session
2. REVIEW OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS FROM APRIL 5, 2010, TRUSTEES
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA.
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(ensuring that operationally inappropriate things are not occurring.)
Is everything occurring appropriately?
3. PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION OF BLOCK SCHEDULING
4. ADJOURNMENT
Regular Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. CITIZENS' PRESENTATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS: This is an opportunity for
citizens to address the Board on any matter whether or not it is posted on the agenda.
The Board cannot by law take action nor have any discussion or deliberations on any
presentation made to the Board at this time concerning an item not listed on the
agenda. Any item presented may be noticed on a future agenda for deliberation or
action.
4. CONSENT AGENDA: All items listed below are considered routine by the Board of
Trustees and will be enacted with one motion. There will be no separate discussion of
items unless a Board member or citizen so requests, in which event the item will be
removed from the general order of business and considered in its normal sequence.
a. Consider approval of the Board of Trustees meeting held on March 1, 2010.
b. Consideration of Resolution 10-02, Approving a Nepotism policy.
c. Consideration of Resolution 10-03, Approving a new 403(b) administrator
through the Region XI Benefits Cooperative
d. Consideration of Resolution 10-04, Adopting a policy relative to the use of
academy facilities for non-school affiliate groups.
e. Consideration of Resolution 10-05, Adopting of the Primary Assessment and
Reporting Policy.
f. Consideration of Resolution 10-06, Authorizing the CEO of Westlake Academy
to enter into an agreement with Parker School Uniforms as the Academy’s
preferred vendor for shoes.
5. PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION OF INFORMATION REGARDING THE
WESTLAKE ACADEMY SENIOR CLASS OF 2010.
6. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 10-07, ADOPTING THE 2010-2011
SCHOOL CALENDAR.
7. DISCUSSION OF THE QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DASHBOARD REPORT FOR THE
QUARTER ENDED FEBRUARY 28, 2010.
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8. CONSIDERATION RESOLUTION 10-08, ADOPTING A FIVE (5) YEAR
STRATEGIC PLAN FOR WESTLAKE ACADEMY
9. DISCUSSION OF BOARD OF TRUSTEE GOVERNANCE AS ILLUSTRATED IN DR.
BRIAN CARPENTER’S AN INTRODUCTION TO EFFECTIVE CHARTER SCHOOL
GOVERNANCE, CHAPTERS 1-2.
10. BOARD CALENDAR
- Bandana Bonanza
May 1, 2010
- Election Day
May 8, 2010
- Board Meeting
May 10, 2010
- New Board Trustee/Council orientation
May 12, 2010
- Texas Charter Schools Association Conference
May 12-14, 2010
- Westlake Academy Graduation
May 23, 2010
- Decoration Day
May 31, 2010
- Board Meeting
June 7, 2010
- Board Budget Retreat – Off Site
June 18, 2010 (Friday 9:00 – 1:00)
- Board Meeting (adoption of budget)
August 16, 2010
11. 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.
Rick Rennhack Home Schooled children participating in WA sports.
Carol Langdon A student parking lot with student only access off of
Ottinger Road.
12. ADJOURNMENT
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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
________________, _____________ ____, 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 March 1, 2010.
b. Consideration of Resolution 10-02, Approving a Nepotism policy.
c. Consideration of Resolution 10-03, Approving a new 403(b) administrator
through the Region XI Benefits Cooperative
d. Consideration of Resolution 10-04, Adopting a policy relative to the use of
academy facilities for non-school affiliate groups.
e. Consideration of Resolution 10-05, Adopting of the Primary Assessment and
Reporting Policy.
f. Consideration of Resolution 10-06, Authorizing the CEO of Westlake
Academy to enter into an agreement with Parker School Uniforms as the
Academy’s preferred vendor for shoes.
Westlake Academy
Item # 2 –
Review of Consent
Agenda Items
1
Memo
Town of Westlake
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Tom Brymer, Chief Executive Officer
Ben Nibarger, Administrative Coordinator
Subject: Workshop Meeting of April 5, 2010
Date: March 30, 2010
Discussion of Block Schedule Proposal for Secondary Curriculum
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
: Staff began exploring this option in late 2009 and in early 2010 and
identified that it had promise for improving curriculum offerings in the Academy’s
Secondary program. With that as the focus, information was presented at the Board’s
February1, 2010 and March 1. 2010 workshops regarding this block schedule proposal
for the Secondary program. Two options (A & B) regarding use of a block schedule
were presented to the Board. Option A would convert the current Secondary schedule to
a block schedule utilizing approximately the current student enrollment, but would not
allow for additional Secondary course offerings. Option B would convert the current
Secondary schedule to a block schedule with new course offerings requiring
approximately 60 new students in Grades 7-10 to form a third section in order to have
enough students to form for these new classes. Option B would also require 5 new
teachers for these new course offerings.
At the February Board workshop the Board indicated an interest in having the staff
further investigate the Option B proposal including developing a mock master block
schedule. This mock schedule along with other information was presented at the March
workshop. At the March workshop the Board had new questions and requests for further
information for which the staff is to bring back and present on at the April workshop. In
the meantime, the Board did indicate it was in agreement with the staff request to begin
2
advertising in appropriate venues for teachers to fill the new positions this Option B
proposal would require. This was requested in order to take advantage of the teacher
recruitment season, if the Board decides to move ahead with this proposal. The Board
also indicated they would like the staff to begin communicating these options to the
parent body. On March 23rd and 25th
, parent information meetings were held to inform
the parent body about this proposal as well as answer questions and hear concerns. A
total of approximately 80 parents attended, with some attending both meetings. Notes
from these meetings of the questions asked and concerns expressed will be furnished to
the Board.
FUNDING
: Financial analysis has been presented at the Board’s February and March
workshops with additional information to be presented at this meeting. There are
budgetary impacts of Option B since, as described above, it would require additional
students and teachers for the new course courses it would offer.
RECOMMENDATION
: Hear the staff presentation on this agenda item, have Board
discussion, and provide staff direction on whether to proceed further on this proposal for
the 2010-2011 school year or subsequent school years.
ATTACHMENTS: None. However, the Power Point presentation from the parent
information meetings held on March 23 and 25, 2101 as well as the FAQ sheet
(frequently asked questions) distributed at the meeting is available on the WA web site at
http://www.westlakeacademy.org/visitors/.
Westlake Academy
Item # 4 –
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.
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 March 1, 2010.
b. Consideration of Resolution 10-02, Approving a Nepotism policy.
c. Consideration of Resolution 10-03, Approving a new 403(b) administrator
through the Region XI Benefits Cooperative
d. Consideration of Resolution 10-04, Adopting a policy relative to the use of
academy facilities for non-school affiliate groups.
e. Consideration of Resolution 10-05, Adopting of the Primary Assessment and
Reporting Policy.
f. Consideration of Resolution 10-06, Authorizing the CEO of Westlake
Academy to enter into an agreement with Parker School Uniforms as the
Academy’s preferred vendor for shoes.
Westlake Academy
Item # 4 - Consent
Agenda Items
BOT Minutes 03/01/10
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WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES WORKSHOP & REGULAR MEETINGS
March 1, 2010
PRESENT: President Laura Wheat and Trustees, Larry Corson, Carol Langdon, Rick
Rennhack, and Rebecca Rollins.
ABSENT: Tim Brittan
OTHERS PRESENT: Chief Executive Officer Thomas Brymer, Secretary Kelly Edwards,
Assistant to the Town Manager Ginger Awtry, Management
Intern Christina Wagner-Powers, 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.
1. CALL TO ORDER
Workshop Session
President Wheat called the workshop meeting to order at 4:35 p.m.
2. REVIEW OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS FROM MARCH 1, 2010, TRUSTEES
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA.
No discussion
(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.
BOT Minutes 03/01/10
Page 2 of 4
Head of Primary Schmitz provided a presentation and step by step overview of the
redesigned Primary Report and answered questions. He also reviewed how the report
would look completed.
The first part of the report is for the teacher to explain the depth of understanding,
next are the units of inquiry, numbers 4 to 6 allow the teacher to be more descriptive.
President Wheat recessed the workshop at 6:05 p.m., to conduct the regular meeting.
President Wheat reconvened the workshop at 6:43 p.m.
4. FOLLOW-UP DISCUSSION OF BLOCK SCHEDULE FROM THE FEBRUARY 1,
2010 WORKSHOP.
Staff provided a presentation regarding the proposed Block Scheduling option for the
2010-2011 school year. Discussion ensued regarding the pros and cons and financial
impacts of implementing a block schedule. An A/B block schedule expands facility
usage, equalizes the teacher student contact hours and enhances AP offerings.
Option B as presented would create a longer day, would not include a recess and
provide teachers more prep time. It would reduce the amount of preps from 3 to 2
preps for teachers. Class times would go from 70 minutes to 80 minutes for all grades
but include built in breaks for students.
5. DISCUSSION AND REPORT ON HEAD OF PRIMARY SELECTION PROCESS PER
BOARD POLICY.
Chief Executive Officer Brymer provided an update on the current process to fill the
Head of Primary position. He will create three (3) interviewing panels with staff,
teachers and parents. Currently, staff is pre-screening applicants.
6. PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION OF A DRAFT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
POLICY RELATIVE TO THE USE OF ACADEMY FACILITIES FOR NON-SCHOOL
AFFILIATE GROUPS.
This item will be discussed at the April 5, 2010, meeting.
(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).
President Wheat asked this item be discussed prior to discussion item 3 on the agenda.
Head of Primary Schmitz and Facilitator of Strings Lisa Redding provided a 2009-2010
summary and update of the program.
BOT Minutes 03/01/10
Page 3 of 4
The board recommended more parent education and the expectations for the student
and parent. Consider a 4 wk program for parents maybe conduct 2 sessions due to
planned vacations.
(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.
This item will be discussed at the April 5, 2010, meeting.
9. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the Board, President Wheat adjourned the
workshop at 9:06 p.m.
Regular Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
President Wheat called the Regular meeting to order at 6:13 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
President Wheat presented a Proclamation recognizing the State Champion Varsity
Girls Basketball Team and the Cross Country Boys & Girls Teams
4. CONSENT AGENDA
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.
MOTION: Trustee Rollins made a motion to approve the consent agenda. Trustee
Corson seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 4-0.
BOT Minutes 03/01/10
Page 4 of 4
5. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
- None
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
7. 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 6:23 p.m.
APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES ON APRIL 5, 2010.
____________________________
Laura Wheat, Board President
ATTEST:
_____________________________
Kelly Edwards, Board Secretary
Memo
Westlake Academy
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Todd Wood, Director of HR and Administrative Services
Subject: Regular Meeting of April 5, 2010
Date: April 5, 2010
ITEM
Consider a Resolution approving a Nepotism Board Policy.
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):
The attached Board Nepotism Policy is a lightly modified version of the policy
governing Town of Westlake employees and members of the Town Council; containing
additional nepotism provisions for employee appointments by the Board. This policy
will ensure that actions taken by the Board do not conflict with adopted organizational
policies.
N/A
FUNDING
Staff recommends approval.
RECOMMENDATION
Proposed Board policy and Resolution.
ATTACHMENTS:
Resolution 10-02
Page 1 of 1
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
RESOLUTION NO 10-02
ADOPTING A POLICY REGARDING NEPOTISM IN THE WORKPLACE
WHEREAS, the Westlake Academy Board of Trustees has considered the following
proposed policies during the April 5, 2010 workshop;
WHEREAS, the Westlake Academy Board of Trustees finds this policy will promote best
practices for staff performance and prevent potential conflicts of interest within the organization;
and
WHEREAS, the Westlake Academy Board of Trustees finds that the passage of this
Resolution is in the best interests of the Academy;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF WESTLAKE
ACADEMY:
SECTION 1
. That the Board of Trustees of Westlake Academy hereby adopts the
Nepotism policy, attached as Exhibit A to this resolution.
SECTION 2
. That this Resolution shall become effective upon the date of its passage.
PASSED AND APPROVED ON THIS 5th
DAY OF APRIL 2010.
___________________________________
Laura Wheat, President
ATTEST:
______________________________ ___________________________________
Kelly Edwards, Secretary Thomas E. Brymer, Chief Executive Officer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
________________________________
L. Stanton Lowry, School Attorney
Exhibit A
TOWN OF WESTLAKE
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES POLICY
Policy No. 10-02:
Date Board Adopted: April 5, 2010
Date Board Amended:
Effective Date
: April 5, 2010
Policy Category
: Faculty Attraction and Retention
Policy Name
: Westlake Academy Nepotism Policy
Policy Goal
: Establishing Guidelines for the prevention of Nepotism in the
workplace and ensuring best practices of employees in the performance of
assigned duties.
Policy Description
: No person related within the second degree of affinity or
within the third degree by consanguinity to any elected officer of Westlake
Academy, or to the CEO, shall be appointed any office, position, or clerkship, or
other service of Westlake Academy. Relatives of all other persons employed by
Westlake Academy may not be hired if the relative is within the second degree of
affinity or within the second degree of consanguinity. This policy applies to all
Westlake Academy departments, and may not be circumvented in cases where a
relative would not be supervised by the existing employee. Exemptions to this
policy may be made by the CEO only for temporary, part-time positions.
In the event that two employees enter into a marital relationship, one employee
will be required to resign their employment with Westlake Academy within thirty
(30) days.
Present or future employees may not be promoted nor transferred to a position
that would be in violation of this policy.
For the purposes of this policy, a relative is defined to include:
First degree affinity – spouse, spouse’s mother, father, brother, sister, son,
daughter;
Second degree affinity – spouse’s aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, grandmother,
grandfather, granddaughter, grandson, first cousins;
First degree of consanguinity – employee’s mother, father, daughter, son,
sister, brother;
Second degree of consanguinity – employee’s aunt, uncle, niece, nephew,
grandmother, grandfather, granddaughter, grandson, first cousins;
Third degree of consanguinity – employee’s great aunt, great uncle, great
niece, great nephew, great grandmother, great grandfather, great granddaughter,
great grandson, second cousins.
All provisions of this policy apply to relatives and/or relationships established
between employees of the Town of Westlake and Westlake Academy.
Memo
Westlake Academy
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Todd Wood, Director of HR and Administrative Services
Subject: Regular Meeting of April 5, 2010
Date: April 5, 2010
ITEM
Consider a Resolution approving a new 403(b) administrator through the Region XI
Benefits Cooperative.
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):
403(b) programs are optional, specialized retirement programs available to public
school employees. As members of the Region XI Benefits Cooperative, Westlake
Academy employees have the option to participate in this additional retirement
program if they choose.
The Region XI Benefits Cooperate recently changed its third-party 403(b)
administrator from the ISC Group to JEM Resources Partners. While we are not
required to change our current TPA, we no employees enrolled in this benefit at the
present time and approving JEM as our current TPA will make future 403(b) benefit
administration less cumbersome for Region XI. Although this change should be
considered a “housekeeping issue”, it is necessary for the Board of Trustees to formally
approve the change by formal resolution, which will be forwarded to the Region XI
Board of Directors for acceptance.
N/A
FUNDING
Staff recommends approval.
RECOMMENDATION
Resolution
ATTACHMENTS:
Resolution 10-03
Page 1 of 2
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
RESOLUTION NO. 10-03
APPROVING THE REGION XI EDUCATION SERVICE CENTER BENEFITS
COOPERATIVE 403(B) ADMINISTRATOR OF RECORD.
WHEREAS, Westlake Academy is an active participant in the Region XI Education
Service Center Employee Benefits Cooperative; and,
WHEREAS, the Region XI Education Service Center Employee Benefits
Cooperative (the “ESC Region XI BC”), has enjoined by Interlocal Agreement with
Education Service Center Region 10, on July 13, 2009, to provide 403(b) administration
services; and,
WHEREAS, the Education Service Center Region 10 utilizes JEM Resource
Partners as its 403(b) administrator of record; and,
WHEREAS, Westlake Academy desires to enhance its employee benefit programs
through intergovernmental partnerships to reduce costs and enhance administrative
efficiency;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE
WESTLAKE ACADEMY:
SECTION 1.
That the Westlake Academy Board of Trustees does hereby elects to
have JEM Resource Partners as their 403(b) Administrator beginning April 5, 2010.
SECTION 2.
That this Resolution shall become effective upon the date of its
passage.
NOW, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board of Trustees of Westlake Academy
authorizes its CEO to execute any and all documents and take whatever action necessary to
carry out the desires of the Board of Trustees as stated herein.
PASSED AND APPROVED ON THIS 5TH
DAY OF APRIL 2010.
I certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the resolution and agreement adopted
by the Board of Trustees of Westlake Academy and that the same is reflected in the minutes
of the Board meeting held on April 5, 2010.
In witness thereof, we hereunto affix our signatures this 5th day of April, 2010.
Resolution 10-03
Page 2 of 2
BY: __________________________________ ____Laura Wheat_
Signature of School Board or Charter Typed Name of School Board or Charter
_________________
School Board President School Board President
__________________________________ ____Kelly Edwards, TMRC
Signature of School Board or Charter Typed Name of School Board or Charter
_________
School Board Secretary School Board Secretary
__________________________________ ____
Signature of Charter School Chief Typed Name of Charter School Chief
Thomas E. Brymer______________
Executive Officer Executive Officer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_____________________________
L. Stanton Lowry, Town Attorney
Name of Participant: _____ Westlake Academy
_____________ _____
Address: _____2600 JT Ottinger Road
________________
_____Westlake, TX 76262
_________________
Name of Contact Person: _____ Todd Wood
________________________
Phone Number: ______(817) 490-5711 _____________________
__________________________________
Signature of ESC Region XI BC Board Typed Name of ESC Region XI BC Board
Wes Eversole
President President
__________________________________
Signature of ESC Region XI BC Board Typed Name of ESC Region XI BC Board
William Stokes
Secretary Secretary
__________________________________
Signature of ESC Region XI Executive Typed Name of ESC Region XI
Richard Ownby
Director Executive Director
__________________________________
Date Approved by ESC Region XI BC
Memo
Westlake Academy
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: Regular Meeting of April 5, 2010
Date: March 30, 2010
Consideration of a Resolution Adopting a Board of Trustees Policy Relative to the Use of
Academy Facilities for Non-school Related 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 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
This policy was discussed at the Board’s March 1, 2010 workshop with no changes
directed by the Board to the draft policy presented at that meeting. As the Academy has
evolved and the interests and opportunities for student involvement have expanded, the
need has arisen to develop a structured Board policy for the use of Academy facilities by
non-school related groups. These groups would enrich the school experience of the
students and offer them the opportunity to participate in additional philanthropic based
events and organized club meetings, which while beneficial, are not directly involved in
the daily educational curriculum of the students.
:
The opportunity to meet will be determined on a first-come first-served basis according
to the availability of classroom/meeting space. Staff will develop a process to allow the
groups to submit written requests and receive approved room assignments and meeting
times. The approved groups will be required to hold meetings which are strictly
voluntary in participation, occur during non-instructional time, and do not require any
direct staff intervention. Also, availability of use of these facilities will be determined
after giving first priority for usage to official Academy groups and activities and official
WA affiliate groups (i.e. the HOC, WAF, and the WAAC).
This policy will be a component of the facility use policy for Westlake Academy.
FUNDING
Not applicable at this time.
:
RECOMMENDATION
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.
:
ATTACHMENTS
1. Resolution adopting the policy concerning use of Academy facilities for non-
school related groups
:
2. Policy concerning use of Academy facilities for non-school related groups
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
RESOLUTION NO. 10-04
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF WESTLAKE ACADEMY
ADOPTING A POLICY PERTAINING TO BOARD PARAMETERS FOR USE OF
WESTLAKE ACADEMY FACILITIES BY NON-SCHOOL RELATED GROUPS
WHEREAS, the Westlake Academy Board of Trustees has considered the proposed
policy establishing parameters for use of the Westlake Academy campus facilities by non-school
related groups;
WHEREAS, the Westlake Academy Board of Trustees finds that this policy will
enhance Westlake Academy students’ educational experience by enriching their school
experience and offering Academy students the opportunity to participate in additional
philanthropic based events and organized club meetings, which while beneficial, are not directly
involved in the daily educational curriculum of the students;
WHEREAS, the Westlake Academy Board of Trustees finds that the passage of this
Resolution is in the best interests of the Academy;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF
WESTLAKE ACADEMY:
SECTION 1
. That the Board of Trustees of Westlake Academy hereby adopts the
proposed policy related to use of Westlake Academy campus facilities by non-school related
groups which is attached as Exhibit A to this resolution.
SECTION 2
. That this Resolution shall become effective upon the date of its passage.
PASSED AND APPROVED ON THIS 5TH
DAY OF APRIL, 2010.
___________________________________
ATTEST: Laura Wheat, President
______________________________ ___________________________________
Kelly Edwards, Secretary Tom Brymer, Chief Executive Officer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
________________________________
L. Stanton Lowry, School Attorney
Exhibit A
TOWN OF WESTLAKE
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES POLICY
Policy No. 10-04:
Date Board Adopted: April 5, 2010
Date Board Amended: N/A
Effective Date
: April 5, 2010
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 student-related 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 requests for
the use of campus facilities by such groups. Priority for the use of campus
facilities will be given to Academy-sponsored groups and activities as well as
officially recognized Westlake Academy affiliate organizations, which include the
Westlake Academy Foundation, the House of Commons, and the Westlake
Academy Athletic Council. Other requests under this policy will be considered
according to the order of submittal and available meeting space and times.
Student participation in meetings scheduled subject to this policy shall be strictly
voluntary. All such meetings must occur during non-instructional time of the
students’ day and shall not require official staff intervention or facilitation.
This policy shall function in tandem with the Town of Westlake Facility Use policy
and all applicants under this policy shall abide by all procedural requirements as
2
set forth in the Town’s Facility Use policy, except that an applicant under this
policy need not be a resident of the Town of Westlake. The use of Westlake
Academy facilities is considered to be a privilege and as such, the Academy
reserves the right to prohibit any group from utilizing the facilities if they partake
in activities which include unlawful conduct, result in property damage, or engage
in other types of disruptive behavior. Any fees or deposits required through the
Town’s Facility Use policy shall be waived for eligible applicants reserving
campus facilities under this policy.
Memo
Westlake Academy
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Jamie Schmitz, Head of Primary
Subject: Regular Meeting of April 5th, 2010
Date: March 30th, 2010
Consider a Resolution adopting of the Primary Assessment and Reporting 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
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 Board has adopted a series of policies intended to direct and guide the Staff in the
education of the students at Westlake Academy. To further support those efforts, the
abovementioned policy is recommended by Staff for adoption. Guidelines consistent with
the Board policy directives will be published in the Parent/Student Handbook. This
policy was reviewed by the Board at the February 1
BACKGROUND (policy implications)
st
, 2010, workshop.
N/A
FUNDING
Adoption of the Resolution of the Primary Assessment and Reporting Policy for
Westlake Academy
RECOMMENDATION
1. Resolution
ATTACHMENTS:
2. Westlake Academy Primary Assessment and Reporting Policy
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
RESOLUTION NO. 10-05
A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF WESTLAKE ACADEMY
ADOPTING A POLICY PERTAINING TO PRIMARY ASSESSMENT AND
REPORTING
WHEREAS, the Westlake Academy Board of Trustees has considered the proposed
policy establishing Board parameters pertaining to Primary Assessment and Reporting;
WHEREAS, the Westlake Academy Board of Trustees finds that this policy will
enhance student achievement by assisting all members of the school community to understand
and use educational assessment in a consistent and successful way;
WHEREAS, the Westlake Academy Board of Trustees finds that the passage of this
Resolution is in the best interests of the Academy;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF
WESTLAKE ACADEMY:
SECTION 1
. That the Board of Trustees of Westlake Academy hereby adopts the
proposed policy related to Primary Assessment and Reporting which is attached as Exhibit A to
this resolution.
SECTION 2
. That this Resolution shall become effective upon the date of its passage.
PASSED AND APPROVED ON THIS 5th DAY OF April, 2010
___________________________________
ATTEST: Laura Wheat, President
______________________________ ___________________________________
Kelly Edwards, Secretary Tom Brymer, Chief Executive Officer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
________________________________
L. Stanton Lowry, School Attorney
Exhibit A
TOWN OF WESTLAKE
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES POLICY
Policy No. – 10-05:
Date Board Adopted: April 5, 2010
Date Board Amended: N/A
Effective Date
: April 5, 2010
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 futuregoals.
b) For teachers, assessment does the following:
i) Provides formative and summative data about student learning
ii) Provides diagnostic data to improve learning
2
iii) Assists instructional planning by providing informed feedback
iv) Helps to determine teaching effectiveness - what approaches
and methods work
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.
Primary Report Unit of Inquiry Descriptors for Understanding K-3
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
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
4
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
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:
5
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
• 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
Specialist Grades – Specialist Teachers (Art, Strings, P.E., Music, and Spanish)
will grade according to discipline specific criteria.
6
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.
Memo
Westlake Academy
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Ben Nibarger, Administrative Coordinator
Subject: Regular Meeting April 5, 2010
Date: March 30, 2010
Consideration of a Resolution authorizing the CEO of Westlake Academy to enter into an
agreement with Parker School Uniforms as the Academy’s preferred vendor for shoes. This is a
three year preferred vendor contract that ties in with our existing school uniform contract with
Parker Uniforms.
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):
The school administration has proposed a school calendar for the 2010-11 school year. The
calendar meets all the requirements of the TEA for 180 instructional days minus the allotted
number of staff In Service days, early release days and start date. The Academy consulted
surrounding school districts when drafting this calendar. Once passed by the School Board the
calendar will be submitted to TEA for final approval.
N/A
FUNDING
N/A
RECOMMENDATION
Resolution
ATTACHMENTS:
Expedited State Waiver
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
RESOLUTION NO. 10-06
AUTHORIZING THE CEO OF THE ACADEMY TO ENTER INTO THE CONTRACT
ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT A WITH PARKER SCHOOL UNIFORMS TO
PROVIDE STUDENTS AT WESTLAKE ACADEMY SCHOOL UNIFORMS.
WHEREAS, the Academy utilizes Parker School Uniforms which is responsible for
providing the school uniforms in full compliance with the Westlake Academy Uniform Policy.
WHEREAS, Westlake Academy staff strictly enforces that the students follow the
school uniform policy as stated in the Parent/Student Handbook.
WHEREAS, Resolution 08-23 authorized the CEO to enter into a contract with Parker
School Uniforms to provide school uniforms for Westlake Academy.
WHEREAS, Parker School Uniforms will keep in stock at all times an ample supply of
all required footwear to assure that Westlake Academy students will be able to meet the uniform
requirements.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE
WESTLAKE ACADEMY:
SECTION 1:
That the Board of Trustees of Westlake Academy does hereby authorize
the CEO to enter into the contract attached hereto as Exhibit A regarding footwear with Parker
School Uniforms.
SECTION 2:
That this Resolution shall become effective upon the date of its passage.
PASSED AND APPROVED ON THIS 5 DAY OF APRIL 2010.
___________________________________
ATTEST: Laura Wheat, President
_______________________________ __________________________________
Kelly Edwards, Secretary Thomas E. Brymer, Chief Executive Officer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_________________________________
L. Stanton Lowry, School Attorney
Memo
Westlake Academy
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Mark Garcia, Head of Secondary
Subject: Workshop Agenda Item for April 5, 2010
Date: March 31, 2010
Presentation and discussion of information regarding the Westlake Academy senior Class of
2010.
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):
The Class of 2010 is the first Graduating class of Westlake Academy. We will present
information on the status of graduation, college admissions, and other items related to this class.
N/A
FUNDING
Hearing of the presentation and discussion of this item.
RECOMMENDATION
None
ATTACHMENTS:
Memo
Westlake Academy
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Ben Nibarger, Administrative Coordinator
Subject: Regular Meeting April 5, 2010
Date: March 30, 2010
Consideration of a Resolution authorizing the expedited State waiver for early release and
in-service work days for the 2010-11 school calendar.
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):
The school administration has proposed a school calendar for the 2010-11 school year.
The calendar meets all the requirements of the TEA for 180 instructional days minus the
allotted number of staff In Service days, early release days and start date. The Academy
consulted surrounding school districts when drafting this calendar. Once passed by the
School Board the calendar will be submitted to TEA for final approval.
N/A
FUNDING
N/A
RECOMMENDATION
Expedited State Waiver
ATTACHMENTS:
Resolution
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
RESOLUTION NO. 10-07
AUTHORIZING THE 2010-2011 SCHOOL CALENDAR AND APPROVING
REQUEST FOR STATE WAIVER.
WHEREAS, the Westlake Academy Board of Trustees has considered the
proposed 2010-2011 school calendar and the proposed State Expedited Waiver; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees finds that the passage of this Resolution is in
the best interests of the Academy and the public;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF
WESTLAKE ACADEMY:
SECTION 1
. That the Board of Trustees of Westlake Academy hereby adopts
the proposed 2010-11 School Calendar (Exhibit ‘A’) and authorizes the school
administration to request the State Expedited Waiver.
SECTION 2
. That this Resolution shall become effective upon the date of its
passage, but contingent upon approval by the TEA.
PASSED AND APPROVED ON THIS 5 DAY OF APRIL 2010
___________________________________
Laura Wheat, President
ATTEST:
______________________________ ___________________________________
Kelly Edwards, Secretary Tom Brymer, Chief Executive Officer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
__________________________________
L. Stanton Lowry, School Attorney
Dates at a Glance
August 6 Teacher Prep Day
Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa August 9 - 13 Staff Development
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 1 2 August 16 First Day of School
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 September 6 Holiday
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 September 22 Staff Development/Student Holiday
22 23 24 25 26 27 28 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 October 1 K - 6 Parent Conference/Early Release
29 30 31 26 27 28 29 30 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 7 - 12 Staff Development/Early Release
31 October 11 Holiday
18 12 21 20 20 20 October 20 Staff Development/Early Release
November 10 Staff Development/Early Release
Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa November 23 - 26 Thanksgiving Holiday
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 1 December 14 - 16 Early Release/Secondary Exams
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 December 17 Staff Development/Student Holiday
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 December 20 - 31 Winter Holiday
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 January 11 - 13 Early Release
28 29 30 26 27 28 29 30 31 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 January 17 Holiday/Martin Luther King Day
30 31 January 19 Staff Development/Early Release
17 17 13 12 20 20 February 16 Staff Development/Early Release
March 14 - 18 Spring Break
Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa April 13 Staff Development/Early Release
1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 April 22 Holiday / Bad Weather Make-Up
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 April 25 Holiday / Bad Weather Make-Up
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 May 24 - 26 Early Release/Secondary Exams
20 21 22 23 24 25 26 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 May 27 Last Day of School/Early Release
27 28 27 28 29 30 31 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 May 30 Staff Holiday
May 31 Staff Development
20 20 18 18 19 19
Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 1 2
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
22 23 24 25 26 27 28 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
29 30 31 26 27 28 29 30 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31 Student Instructional Days 178
21 20 Teacher Work Days 187
School Closed Report Cards
Early Release Day First and Last Day of School
EP Employee Planning (no school for students) Parent Teacher Conferences
EP Holiday Bad Weather Make-Up
Name of School
March 2011 April 2011
May 2011 June 2011
November 2010 December 2010 January 2011
February 2011
August 2010 September 2010 October 2010
2010-2011 School Calendar
July 2011
H
H H H H H H H H H
H H H H H
H H H H H
H
HEPEPEPEPEP
H
EP
H
EP
H
EP
EP
CDD-106R10
APPLICATION FOR EXPEDITED
AND GENERAL STATE WAIVERS
General Instructions. For Expedited Waivers, please complete Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4. For General State Waivers, please
complete Sections 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6. Bolded items in Section 2 and Section 3 must be completed. Please direct questions to the
State Waiver Unit at (512) 463-9630 or www.tea.state.tx.us/waivers.
SECTION 1. PLEASE COMPLETE THIS SECTION FOR ALL WAIVERS.
District Name: Westlake Academy County/District No. 220 - 810
Address: 2600 J T Ottinger Rd Telephone No. (817) - 490 - 5757
City, State, Zip: Westlake, TX 76262 Fax No. (817) - 490 - 5777
Contact Person: Ben Nibarger Telephone No. (817) - 490 - 5762
Email: bnibarger@westlakeacademy.org
SECTION 2. PLEASE COMPLETE THIS SECTION FOR ALL WAIVERS.
Superintendent: Tom Brymer
Dr. Mr. Typed Name
Mrs. Ms.
Signature
Board President: Laura Wheat
Typed Name
Signature
Date Board Approval:
Board Vote – For Against Abstain Absent
SECTION 3. PLEASE COMPLETE THIS SECTION FOR ALL WAIVERS.
Comments of appropriate Site-Based Decision Making Committee:
SBDM Committee Chairperson Signature
SECTION 4
Staff Development Waiver, pursuant to Texas Education Code (TEC) §25.081. This waiver allows the district or charter
school to train staff on various educational strategies designed to improve student performance in lieu of a maximum of three
days of student instruction. Please state the number of days requested. 3
. EXPEDITED WAIVERS. PLEASE CHECK ALL THAT APPLY.
Please check the years requested: 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013
Reading/English Language Arts; Mathematics; Science; and/or Social Studies Staff Development Waiver, pursuant to
TEC §25.081. This waiver allows the district or charter school to conduct additional staff training for reading/english language
arts, mathematics, science, or social studies strategies aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills in lieu of a
maximum of two days of student instruction.
Please check no more than two subject areas for only one day each:
Reading/English Language Arts Mathematics 1 Science 1 Social Studies
Please check the years requested: 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013
Staff Development through Participation in Eligible Conferences Waiver, pursuant to TEC §25.081. This waiver allows
the district or charter school to send staff to eligible conferences for staff development to improve student performance in lieu of
one day of student instruction.
Please check the years requested: 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013
Early Release Waiver, pursuant to TEC §25.082(a). This waiver allows the district or charter school to conduct school for
less than seven (7) hours for a total of six (6) days of student instruction to provide additional training in educational
methodologies and/or to provide time to meet the needs of students and local communities. Please state the number of days
requested. 6
Please check the years requested: 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013
Modified Schedule/TAKS Testing Days Waiver, pursuant to TEC §25.082(a). This waiver allows the district or charter
school to modify the schedule of classes on TAKS testing days during the current school year to reduce interruptions during
testing periods.
Please check the years requested: 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012
CDD-106R10
ALL APPLICATIONS SHOULD BE MAILED OR FAXED. THE FAX NUMBER IS (512) 475-3666.
State Waiver Unit | Texas Education Agency | 1701 North Congress Avenue | Austin, TX 78701-1494 | Phone (512) 463-9630
SECTION 4. EXPEDITED WAIVERS
TEXTBOOK WAIVERS: Pursuant to TEC §7.056. This waiver allows school districts and open enrollment charter schools the
opportunity to purchase instructional materials and obtain reimbursement up to the state maximum cost called for in a
proclamation, for which no textbook was offered for consideration by publishers. These courses include, but are not limited to:
2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013
Proclamation 1997: Remedial Reading Grade 6:
2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013
Proclamation 1999: Photojournalism, Astronomy; AP Environmental Science; IB Environmental
Systems; and AP Human Geography:
2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013
Proclamations 2001 and 2002: Business Education; Technology Education/Industrial Technology
Education; Trade and Industrial Education; Languages Other Than English; and Fine Arts:
2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013
Proclamation 2004: IB Mathematical Studies Subsidiary Level; IB Mathematical Higher Level; and IB
Advanced Mathematics Subsidiary Level.
A complete list of subjects eligible for waivers and the maximum costs allowed may be viewed at:
http://www.tea.state.tx.us/textbooks/waivers/subjectsnobids.pdf
Foreign Exchange Student Waiver, pursuant to TEC §25.001(e). This expedited waiver allows the district to limit the
number of foreign exchange students to a number that is not less than five per high school. An application to limit the number to
less than five per high school must be submitted as a general waiver. The number requested by the district for an expedited
waiver is (state number of students) per high school. The waiver is subject to the provisions in the attached guidelines and
FAQ http://www.tea.state.tx.us/waivers/ForeignExchangeGuidelines.doc http://www.tea.state.tx.us/waivers/ForeignExchangeFAQ.doc.
The waiver will be issued if it is determined that admission of more than this number indicated will (check all that apply):
(1) create a financial or staffing hardship for the district;
(2) diminish the district's ability to provide high quality educational services for the district's
domestic students; or
(3) require domestic students to compete with foreign exchange students for educational resources.
Please check the years requested: 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013
SECTION 5. PLEASE COMPLETE THIS SECTION & SECTION 6 FOR GENERAL WAIVERS
Course Requirement For foreign exchange student waiver, description must address the
circumstances applicable to the district under TEC § Section 25.001(e)
(1), (2), or (3). Please submit local policy with application.
http://www.tea.state.tx.us/waivers/ForeignExchangeGuidelines.doc
http://www.tea.state.tx.us/waivers/ForeignExchangeFAQ.doc
Pregnancy Related Services On-Campus CEHI
Study of Electronic Courses
Other Specify Additional Early Release Days
Disciplinary Alternative Education Programs, pursuant to TEC 37.008(g). This waiver allows the district to use more than
18% of the district’s SCE allotment to provide supplemental services for disciplinary alternative education programs established
under Section 37.008. The school district is required to state the reason for needing to exceed the 18% limit and to report the
number of students in each grade level, by demographic subgroup, not making satisfactory progress under the state’s
assessment system. The district is also required to submit a copy of their district/campus improvement plan which provides a
description of their disciplinary alternative education program for TEA review. The district/campus improvement plan must
conform to the requirements in TEC Section 11.252 and 11.253 and the Financial Accountability Resource Guide, 9.2.3. This
waiver is granted for one year and the waiver must be resubmitted in writing by July 20 through the Texas Education Agency
waiver office for each subsequent year, in accordance with TEA policies and deadlines for filing. Please state the total
percentage of the district’s SCE allotment that is being requested to provide supplemental services at the DAEP.
SECTION 6
PLEASE USE SEPARATE PAGE.
. COMPLETE THIS SECTION FOR ALL WAIVERS OTHER THAN EXPEDITED WAIVERS.
1. Give a brief narrative description of the requested waiver.
2. Does the district or campus plan reflect the need for this waiver? If yes, what is the specific objective impacted by the
waiver?
3. Cite the Texas Education Code or the Texas Administration Code that the district or campus wishes to waive?
4. Describe the plan to be implemented, if the waiver is granted.
5. How will granting this waiver help achieve the district’s or campus’ objective?
6. Please explain how the school district or campus will evaluate the impact of the waiver towards meeting the district’s or
campus’ goal.
7. Please specify the school years for which the waiver is requested, to a maximum of three years.
2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013
Memo
Westlake Academy
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Debbie Piper, Finance Director
Subject: Regular Meeting of April 6, 2010
Date: March 30, 2010
Discussion of the Quarterly Financial “Dashboard” report for the quarter ended February 28,
2010.
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
The 2nd quarter “Dashboard” report for the FY 2009-2010 is attached. Our goal is to have a
concise and easy to understand document regarding the financials of our Academy operating
fund-General Fund. The remaining funds are grant funds related to federal and state funds with
specific requirements as to the expenditures. They are fully funded and expensed by year-end.
For the second quarter of FY 2009-2010, the Academy’s “Dashboard” includes an “Estimated
Budget” section. Typically, we don’t add this section until the third quarter, but because the
State ARRA Title XIV grant funds had to be moved to a specific Special Revenue Fund and
several employees needed to be re-classed after the budget was adopted, the section was added to
show these changes. The “Estimated Budget” includes the following:
REVENUES
• Reduction of revenues by $63,820 for ARRA Title XIV grant funds (Moved to
separate fund)
• Addition of $3,000 revenue for local gifts and donations.
EXPENDITURES
• Expenditures have been reduced by the $63,820 (offsetting the reduction in
revenues) for the AARA Title XIV grant funds.
• Re-classed personnel from Function 23 to Function 41 (Total amounts offset)
The same columns presented for the “Adopted Budget” are also included on the report for the
“Estimated Budget”. These columns, as well as the “Dashboard” column, have a blue column
heading to help distinguish between the different budgets.
A summary is presented at the bottom of the page indicating the net revenues over (under)
expenditures along with the projected ending fund balance for the Adopted Budget, Estimated
Budget and the Actual YTD. The operating days remaining in Fund Balance have been
calculated using operating expenditures.
Please note the “Analysis” is color coded and corresponds to the specific line-item on the
“Dashboard” report. All “cautionary” and “critical” items are detailed with explanations of the
variances. Beside each major category or function on the analysis report, you will find a
number that reflects the exact variance in that function/line-item that corresponds to the
percentage on the “Dashboard”.
FUNDING
N/A
RECOMMENDATION
No action required.
General Fund - Quarterly Financial Dashboard – Quarter Ended 02/28/2010
ATTACHMENTS:
General Fund - Analysis of Dashboard for Quarter Ended 02/28/2010
3/30/2010 2:13 PM
ACTUAL ADOPTED
Annual 6 months Annual 6 months YTD
Budget YTD Budget YTD 2/28/10 Dashboard
Local Interest Income 3,000$ 1,500$ 3,000$ 1,500$ 274$ 18.3%
Local Gifts & Donations-Misc - - 3,000 3,000 3,000 100.0%
Local Gifts & Donations - BSA 420,000 210,000 420,000 210,000 302,931 144.3%
Local WAF Salary Reimb 64,858 32,429 64,858 32,429 23,731 73.2%
Local Food/Beverage 8,600 5,160 8,600 5,160 - 0.0%
Local Athletics 48,006 28,804 48,006 28,804 35,983 124.9%
Local Other 11,000 6,600 11,000 6,600 8,210 124.4%
State Foundation State Funds 3,443,120 1,721,560 3,379,300 1,689,650 1,684,760 99.7%
State TRS On-Behalf 174,285 - 174,285 - - 100.0%
TOTAL 4,172,869$ 2,006,053$ 4,112,049$ 1,977,143$ 2,058,888$ 102.6% Positive Cautious Negative
>95%75% - 95%< 75%
ACTUAL ADOPTED
Annual 6 months Annual 6 months YTD
Budget YTD Budget YTD 2/28/10 Dashboard
Instructional 11 2,318,077$ 1,295,260$ 2,254,257$ 1,256,968$ 1,127,929$ 89.73%
Resources & Media 12 91,303 50,656 91,303 50,656 44,115 87.09%
Curriculum and Staff Dev 13 61,655 30,828 61,655 30,828 36,919 119.76%
Instructional Leadership 21 92,034 52,016 92,034 52,016 46,412 89.23%
School Leadership 23 210,441 107,921 164,035 84,006 89,219 106.21%
Guidance & Counseling 31 153,340 78,408 153,340 78,408 79,236 101.06%
Health Services 33 53,813 30,949 53,813 30,949 27,779 89.76%
Food Services 35 9,018 5,086 9,018 5,086 3,996 78.58%
CoCurricular Activities 36 108,220 57,602 108,220 58,442 45,900 78.54%
Administration 41 272,714 138,135 319,120 162,050 167,140 103.14%
Maintenance & Operations 51 300,156 150,895 300,156 150,895 118,568 78.58%
Data Processing 53 140,404 71,654 140,404 71,654 74,310 103.71%
Community Services 61 64,858 30,564 64,858 30,564 26,590 87.00%
Debt Service 71 42,000 21,000 42,000 21,000 - 0.00%
TOTAL 3,918,033$ 2,120,974$ 3,854,213$ 2,083,522$ 1,888,113$ 90.62%
Payroll & Related 61xx 2,970,799$ 1,646,607$ 2,912,432$ 1,611,111$ 1,516,412$ 94.12%
Prof & Contracted Srv 62xx 488,190 244,095 487,266 244,473 209,134 85.54%
Supplies & Materials 63xx 238,151 119,076 235,651 117,826 70,979 60.24%
Other Operating Costs 64xx 178,893 90,197 176,864 89,113 91,588 102.78%
Debt Service 65xx 42,000 21,000 42,000 21,000 - 0.00%
TOTAL 3,918,033$ 2,120,974$ 3,854,213$ 2,083,522$ 1,888,113$ 90.62%
Positive Cautious Negative
< 100%101%-110%>111%
Adopted Adopted Estimated Estimated YTD
Annual YTD Annual YTD Actuals
Budget Budget Budget Budget 6/30/09
254,836$ (114,921)$ 257,836$ (106,379)$ 170,775$
-
100,000 - 100,000
Beginning Fund Balance 504,653 504,653 504,653 504,653 504,653
Ending Fund Balance 659,489$ 389,732$ 662,489$ 398,274$ 675,428$
# of Operating Days 61 36 63 38 64
Daily Operating Cost $10,734 $10,734 $10,559 $10,559 $10,559
ADOPTED BUDGET ESTIMATED BUDGET
Revenue Legend:
Expenditure Legend:
Net Revenues Over (Under) Exp
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
General Fund
Quarter Ended 02/28/10
ADOPTED BUDGET ESTIMATED BUDGET
REVENUES
Other Resources
Other Uses
FUNCTION
OBJECT CODES
EXPENDITURES
SUMMARY
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
Analysis of Dashboard for Quarter Ended 2/28/10
GENERAL FUND
Page 1
REVENUES
INTEREST INCOME
• Interest rates are lower than anticipated
- ($1,226)
WAF SALARY REIMBURSEMENT
• ($3,730) Original budget included Teacher Retirement System (TRS) On-Behalf payment which is a
“Paper” entry only. This amount represents the “match” amount paid by the State. Total on-behalf
expenditure line items are offset by a revenue on-behalf line-item. There is no affect to the bottom
line. This amount should not have been included in the total budget for the reimbursement of the
Foundation Director.
– ($8,698)
• ($3,800) Budget was based on 12 months of salary. Director’s beginning date was September 29,
2009.
• ($1,105) Per discussions with the Education Service Center, when a school hires a new employee that
has never been with the TRS, the school has to pay the matching funds of 6.64%. After 90 days this
amount is paid by the State of Texas. This amount has not been reimbursed and will be corrected in
the next quarter.
FOOD/BEVERAGE
• Based on the executed agreement with Victual, LLC, the Academy will receive 5% of net revenues
from the lunch program sales. The contract states these payments will be paid in three installments on
December 18, 2009, March 12, 2009 and June 14, 2009. We are in contact with the company
regarding these payments.
- ($5,160)
EXPENDITURES
FUNCTION 13 – Curriculum and Staff Development - $6,091
• 100% IB fees have been paid
FUNCTION 23 – School Leadership - $5,213
• Copier lease is based on copies – majority of copies are made during the school year with very little
use during the summer months
FUNCTION 31 – Guidance and Counseling - $828
• Majority of diagnostics and special education services are provided during the school year
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
Analysis of Dashboard for Quarter Ended 2/28/10
GENERAL FUND
Page 2
FUNCTION 41 – Administrative - $5,090
Payroll – $2,279
• Overtime of administrative staff
Professional Services – ($4,961)
• $ 11,253 Legal Services
• $ 6,250 Audit - Audit completed and paid in full
• ($13,950) Education Service Center - Business contract paid in March, 2010 and Board training
budgeted but not received to-date
• ($ 2,525) Parent Survey
• ($ 6,000) Strategic Retreat facilitator
Supplies & Materials - $ 739
• Total expenditure amount should even out by year-end; additional supplies purchased at beginning of
year
Other Operating Costs – $7,033
• $7,460 Miscellaneous Operating Fees
Don Wall Productions $4K for web-site video
Various association/chamber dues paid in full
FUNCTION 53 – Data Processing - $2,656
• Service Center contract for PEIMS software/services paid in full
1
Memo
Town of Westlake
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Tom Brymer, CEO
Subject: Regular Meeting of April 5, 2010
Date: March 30, 2010
Consideration of a Resolution Adopting a Five (5) Year Strategic Plan for Westlake
Academy
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
A suggested process for preparing a strategic plan for Westlake Academy was discussed
at the Board’s October 5, 2009 workshop. The Council’s consensus was that this
proposed process was acceptable. The WALT then met with the entire Academy staff
who divided into small work groups; each assigned various components of the plan.
After that input was received, the WALT started working on various drafts of the plan
until we arrived at the draft strategic plan that was presented to the Board at its January
workshop. Board discussion of this draft strategic plan began at the Board’s Jan. 4, 2010
workshop and concluded at its Feb. 1, 2010 workshop. Since that time, staff has been
taking the Board’s input and using it to shape this proposed final draft of this strategic
plan.
BACKGROUND
Using the mission/vision/value statements identified by the Board, this draft strategic
plan is built around five (5) desired outcomes (not listed in any priority order):
• High Student Achievement
•
Strong Parent & Community Connections
•
Financial Stewardship & Sustainability
•
Student Engagement – Extracurricular activities
2
• Effective Educators & Staff
FUNDING
: The strategic plan, if and when adopted, and depending on what is included
in it regarding strategic initiatives, could have financial impacts for the Academy.
RECOMMENDATION
: Staff recommends that the Board discuss and ask questions
about the proposed final draft plan as presented and determine if it wishes to add, modify,
or delete any portion of it. Following that Board discussion, staff recommends that the
Board adopt the resolution approving this strategic plan. The WA Strategic Plan will
then become a key guide for allocation of staff time and Town resource proposals to
pursue the Plan’s strategic initiatives over the next 5 years. This is a plan and will need
to be revisited by the Board and staff on a regular basis.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Memorandum dated 3-30-10 from CEO to the Board transmitting the Proposed
Westlake Academy Five Year Strategic Plan
:
2. Proposed Westlake Academy Five Year Strategic Plan
3. Resolution Adopting the Westlake Academy Five Year Strategic Plan
4. Memo Dated 12-07-09 from CEO to BOT re: Council Meeting Schedule and the
Strategic Planning/Budget Calendar for Both Westlake Academy and the Town of
Westlake.
1
MEMORANDUM
Date: March 30, 2010
TO: Honorable President and Board of Trustees
FROM: Tom Brymer, Town Manager/CEO Westlake Academy
SUBJECT: Proposed Final Draft Westlake Academy Five Year Strategic Plan
Staff discussed a process for preparing a strategic plan for Westlake Academy at
the Board’s October 5, 2009 BOT workshop. Following the Council’s consensus
that this process was acceptable, we met with the entire Academy staff and got
them working in small groups on various components of the plan. After we
received that input, the WALT started working on various drafts of the plan until
we arrived at the draft strategic plan that was presented and discussed at the
Board’s January and February 2010 workshops.
This draft plan will be on the Board’s April 5th
regular meeting for consideration
and adoption. Using the mission/vision/value statements identified by the Board,
this draft strategic plan is built around five (5) desired outcomes (not listed in any
priority order):
• High Student Achievement
•
- Develop inquiring, knowledgeable, caring and disciplined
young people who use their unique talents to create a better and more peaceful world
through intercultural understanding and respect
Strong Parent & Community Connections
•
– To involve all stakeholders in building a
better Westlake Academy community
Financial Stewardship & Sustainability
•
– To ensure sufficient, well-managed resources
to support and advance the mission of Westlake Academy
Student Engagement – Extracurricular activities
•
- To ensure that all athletics,
community service and extra-curricular activities are held to the same standard of
excellence as the curricula programs to promote well-balanced students
Effective Educators & Staff - Recruit, develop and retain a core faculty and staff with the
personal qualities, skills and expertise to work effectively with inquiry-based, student-
centered curricula
2
Under each desired outcome are specific outcomes, outcome measures and
steps to achieve the specific outcome. Where we can, we’ve assigned team
leaders for specific outcomes. Also, where practical we will need to assign short
range (1-2 years), medium range (2-3 years), and long range (4-5 years) time
frames.
Most importantly, once adopted, this Strategic Plan becomes a guidepost for the
Board’s governance and Staff’s management of the school in terms of pursuing
the strategic initiatives identified in the Plan. It will need to be revisited by the
staff on a regular basis.
This document is being sent by hard copy and electronically so you have time to
read and digest it prior to the April 5th
regular Board meeting. In the mean time, if
you have any questions regarding this plan, please let me know.
Attachment
Resolution 10-08
Page 1 of 2
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
RESOLUTION 10-08
APPROVING AND ADOPTING A STRATEGIC PLAN FOR WESTLAKE ACADEMY.
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees for Westlake Academy has determined that effective
governance of the Westlake Academy requires a multi-year focus that can best be provided by a
strategic plan formulated by the Board-staff team; and,
WHEREAS, the Westlake Academy Board of Trustees has invested significant Board
and staff time over the last several months in an off-site planning retreat as well as subsequent
workshops to formulate vision, values, and mission statements to guide the creation of a strategic
plan and has reviewed drafts of this strategic plan; and,
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees has determined that this strategic plan allows for a
multi-year focus on the Board’s governance priorities for Westlake Academy, as well as the
allocation of Board and staff time and resources to pursue those priorities; and,
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees has determined that approving this strategic plan
provides opportunities to measure implementation of the plan, integrate it with other governance
and management processes, and shall be reviewed by the Board at least annually for any updates
and/or revisions that the Board determines are necessary to make the plan as effective as
possible; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees finds that the passage of this Resolution is in the best
interest of the citizens of Westlake as well as the students, their parents, and faculty of Westlake
Academy;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF
WESTLAKE ACADEMY:
SECTION 1.
THAT, all matters stated in the Recitals hereinabove are found to be true
and correct and are incorporated herein by reference as if copied in their entirety.
SECTION 2. THAT, the Board of Trustees Westlake Academy, hereby approves the
attached strategic plan for Westlake Academy attached to this resolution as Exhibit “A.
Resolution 10-08
Page 2 of 2
PASSED AND APPROVED ON THIS 5th DAY OF APRIL, 2010.
___________________________________
Laura Wheat, President
ATTEST:
______________________________ ___________________________________
Kelly Edwards, Secretary Thomas E. Brymer, Chief Executive Officer
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
________________________________
L. Stanton Lowry, School Attorney
International World School
STRATEGIC PLAN
A central tenet of the Town of Westlake is the belief that communities
with the brightest future are those where knowledge is highly valued
and its goals and objectives are based on acquiring an education,
learning together and imparting knowledge to our future generations.
In Westlake’s case, those generations are found in the students
attending the Academy now and in the future. In keeping with this
philosophy, Westlake Academy is the only municipally owned and op-
erated Charter School in the State of Texas and as such, is the largest
operating department of the Town of Westlake.
The development of the Strategic Plan is designed to provide the
Westlake community, our faculty, students, and parents as wells as our
peer schools with the knowledge necessary to understand the direction
of the Academy as well as the emphasis the Board of Trustees places
in educating our next generation of leaders.
The Strategic Plan contains the mission, vision, and values of Westlake
Academy as defined by the Academy’s Board/Staff team. The Plan is
intended to equip our faculty, parents, students, administration and the
Board with a “road map” to pursue the desired outcomes that move
the school closer to this vision and ultimately, to the highest level of
student success we can attain with the resources provided.
Phone: (817) 490-5757
Fax: (817) 490-5758
www.westlakeacademy.org
2600 J. T. Ottinger Road
Westlake, Texas 76262
Insert Seal Here
Presented On: April 5, 2010
Table of Contents
Mission/Vision/Values 2
Overview 3
Desired Outcomes 4
Highlights of the Academy 4
High Student Achievement 5
Parent/Comm. Connections 12
Financial Stewardship 16
Student Engagement 20
Effective Educators 23
Governance
Structure
MISSION / VISION
Westlake Academy is governed by a six (6) member Board of Trustees
comprised of the Board President and five (5) Trustees. These positions serve
a dual role — as both the Academy’s governing board and the Town Council
for the Town of Westlake. The Trustees serve two (2) year staggered terms of
office and are responsible for the governance of the school, which includes
adopting policies related to educational services and programs, approving the
annual budget and appointment of members to the Westlake Academy
Foundation.
The Board also appoints the Chief Executive Officer of the school, who is
responsible for the Academy’s daily operations, staff appointment/
management, plant maintenance, and financial administration. In addition, the
CEO functions as the Town Manager for the Town of Westlake.
VALUES (GUIDING PRINCIPLES)
“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 responsible global citizens.”
Academic success through the IB curriculum
Student and family oriented environment
Being a municipally owned and operated charter school
Engaged students with international awareness
Community involvement and support
Diverse learning experience
2
The strategic plan is the result of many hours of review and discussion with the
Board of Trustees, and Westlake Academy Staff, which spanned a year-long
process where we gathered information, discussed our long-range goals and
developed comprehensive guidelines to ensure student success. The Board met
during a planning retreat to develop the mission / vision statement and identify
the values that were important to the Academy. The plan was then expanded to
include five (5) Desired Outcomes which the Staff used to develop Specific
Outcomes, Indicators and Activities to accomplish these directives.
Strategic
Plan
Overview
Vision /
Mission Values
(Guiding
Principles) Desired
Outcomes Specific
Outcomes
Specific Outcomes are designed to support the five (5) main
Desired Outcomes identified as important to the success of the
students.
Assigned completion
dates for each Indicator
Activities are actions Staff
will complete to achieve the
goal set out in the
corresponding Indicator
Team Leaders are
identified to monitor our
progress toward the stated
goals
Indicators are
measurable statements/
activities designed to
show that Specific
Outcomes have been
achieved.
Specific Outcome = Students will be well prepared to matriculate
and succeed in college.
Short-Range and On-going Goals
Team Leader(s): Heads of Section
Indicator = 100% of students are passing classroom exams
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
Activity = Continued integration of IB curricula into all
daily educational programs
Indicators
3
Description of Desired Outcomes
~ High Student Achievement
Develop inquiring, knowledgeable, caring and disciplined young
people who use their unique talents to create a better and more
peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect
~ Strong Parent & Community Connections
To involve all stakeholders in building a better Westlake
Academy community
~Financial Stewardship & Sustainability
To ensure sufficient, well-managed resources to support and ad-
vance the mission of Westlake Academy
~ Student Engagement – Extracurricular activities
To ensure that all athletics, community service and extra-curricular activities are held to the
same standard of excellence as the curricula programs to promote well-balanced students
~ Effective Educators & Staff
Recruit, develop and retain a core faculty and staff with the personal qualities, skills and
expertise to work effectively with the IB inquiry-based, student-centered curricula
Westlake Academy is the only school in the state of Texas to provide their students with all
three IB programs — Primary Years, Middle Years and the Diploma Program; and one of five
schools to offer all three in the United States.
Provides numerous extra-curricular opportunities, in addition to the rigorous curriculum, such
as athletics, drum line, music, yearbook, Black Cow journalism and newspaper publishing,
historian and garden club, student council, science and history competition, Model United
Nations, etc.
Our first graduating class, 24 students, have received over $1 million dollars in scholarship
offers!
Rated as “Exemplary” by the Texas Education Agency for three (3) of the last seven (7) years
Highlights of Westlake Academy
PSAT Statistics for 2008/2009
Critical Reading 9th 10th 11th
National Mean 41.6 41.6 46.7
Texas Mean 40.3 40.3 44
Westlake Students 48.9 50.6 56.5
Math 9th 10th 11th
National Mean 44 44 48.9
Texas Mean 43.5 43.5 47
Westlake Students 47.2 51.3 59.2
Writing 9th 10th 11th
National Mean 41 41 45.8
Texas Mean 40.4 40.4 44.4
Westlake Students 46.5 48.5 54.7
4
Desired Outcome ~ High Student Achievement
A central focus of Westlake Academy is to prepare students to
achieve a world class education through the use of the IB
curriculum and ultimately toward doing well in college.
Special attention will be given to providing students with the
educational framework needed to help them experience success
on their homework assignments and in taking classroom based
tests. Both of which can be used as benchmark indicators as to a
students performance on the rigorous final IB exams adminis-
tered during their senior year of the Diploma Program.
Students will receive instruction in foreign language studies, exposure to and application of
modern technology in the classrooms, and be given the opportunity to model the IB Learner
Profile traits that will assist them in the formation of their critical thinking skills.
Profile Traits
Inquirers Open-minded
Knowledgeable Caring
Thinkers Risk-takers
Communicators Balanced
Principled Reflective
Staff will focus on providing curriculum and school experiences that will translate into achieving
the students goals of entering the college of their choice. Among other tasks, we will provide the
students with time management and research study skills which are crucial to college coursework
and examine the feasibility of providing on-campus review courses for the SAT and ACT exams
along with the implementation of other external assessment tools to gauge the students
capabilities in reading, mathematics and problem solving tasks.
We will also perform a complete alignment of the IB curriculum across the spectrum of our K-12
facility. This will allow each ‘section’ of students to better succeed as they progress through their
learning experiences. For example, each subject (math, science, etc.) will undergo continuous
review to ensure the curriculum and methods being taught in the Primary Years (PYP) will
transition into the Middle Years Program (MYP) and so on, into the 11th and 12th grade, known as
the Diploma Program (DP). Students who matriculate from Grade 6 (PYP) to Grade 7 (MYP) and
from Grade 10 (MYP) to Grade 11 (DP) will be prepared do well in their studies.
As parents are an integral component to the achievements of the student, the Board of Trustees,
through the use of the Westlake Academy Strategic Plan, have developed specific programs and
directives designed to assist new families in their transition into the Academy’s community along
with maintaining multiple lines of communication for our continuing families.
Please see the following specific outcomes and indicators associated with High Student Achievement
for more information.
5
Desired Outcome ~ High Student Achievement (cont.)
Specific Outcome
1.0 Students will be well prepared to matriculate and succeed in college
Short-Range and On-going Goals
Team Leader(s): Heads of Section
1.1 100% of students are passing classroom exams
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
1.1.1 Continued integration of IB curricula into all daily educational programs
1.2 Graduate 100% of our students
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
1.3 100% college enrollment for all graduates
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
1.3.1 Continued integration of IB curricula into all daily educational programs
1.4 90% will test for two (2) or more subject specific Diploma Program certificates
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2011
1.5 Students will perform at a level that is within the top 25% (upper quartile) on college entrance
exams (ACT, SAT) as compared to:
State average
Surrounding school districts
Comparable IB schools Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
1.5.1 Provide onsite testing to increase student access to exams; Research our ability to provide a
preparatory SAT, ACT program within Westlake Academy.
1.6 Review the use and interpretation of college skills readiness exams, which are necessary to gauge
the student’s ability to perform at the college level
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2010
1.6.1 Research the capacity and applicability of alternative programs, such as the College and
Work Readiness Assessment (CWRA), for administration during freshman and senior
years, to determine the college skills levels for the MYP and DP students
1.6.2 Explore the use of the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), Progress in
International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS), Trends in International Mathematics and
Science Study (TIMSS), iCritical Thinking Certification, etc. as evaluation tools of student
progress
1.7 Prepare students to use cutting edge technology flexibly and effectively
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
1.7.1 Research the availability/partnership of a technical sponsor
1.7.2 Effectively integrate technology into all IB programs
1.8 Develop time management and research skills study units to further prepare the students to
succeed in college level courses
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2010
6
Desired Outcome ~ High Student Achievement (cont.)
Specific Outcome:
2.0 Graduate the maximum number of students with an IB Diploma on an annual basis – On-going Goal
Team Leader(s): Diploma Program Coordinator
2.1 80% of graduates achieve the IB Diploma by 2015
2.1.1 Students will achieve at a level that exceeds the national average relative to other IB schools
2.2 90% will test for the complete panel of Diploma Program exams
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2011
Specific Outcome:
3.0 Students will excel on the TAKS test - On-going Goal
Team Leader(s): Heads of Section
3.1 All students will pass the TAKS exams
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
3.1.1 Develop parameters to ensure the students are prepared for State mandated
exams in a manner that aligns with the IB instruction
3.2 Exceed the number of commended students relative to internal and external assessments
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
3.2.1 Benchmark the students commended level relative to neighboring school districts
3.2.2 Establish regular and uniform progress reports as it relates to individual students on a
year to year and by grade level basis
3.3 Maintain the highest Texas Education Agency rating allowable for public schools
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
Specific Outcome:
4.0 IB Learner Profile will be integrated throughout the entire spectrum of the Westlake Academy
curricula and culture – On-going Goal
Team Leader(s): Primary, Middle Years and Diploma Program Coordinators
4.1 Students will view learning as a life-long process and possess the following competencies:
The ability to think critically, creatively, and solve problems
The ability to collaborate effectively, and lead by influence
The ability to think flexibly, deal effectively with change, and use a variety of tools to solve
problems
The ability to adapt to new and unfamiliar surroundings, take initiative, and trust themselves to
be creative
The ability to communicate effective and cogently (oral and written form)
The ability to access and analyze information
The ability to ask focused, purposeful questions
7
Desired Outcome ~ High Student Achievement (cont.)
(Specific Outcome 4.0—Integration of IB Learner Profile, cont.)
4.2 Students will act as arbitrators to settle disputes
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2011
4.2.1 Research the availability and integration of formal arbitration training to allow students the
opportunity to develop problem solving strategies and dispute resolution skills
4.3 Students will demonstrate the following facets of international-mindedness:
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
Knowledge and understanding beyond one’s own nationality
Awareness and understanding of the interdependence among people
Awareness and understanding of the independence of people and countries
Awareness and understanding of the similarities and differences among people
4.3.1 Students will be provided with a fair and balanced view of issues and event
4.3.2 Curriculum will be presented in a holistic manner, so that both the cognitive and
affective domains of learning are stimulated
4.3.3 Promote broad student participation in residential trips
4.4 Explore programs and partnership opportunities to foster international mindedness through
the use of cultural/foreign exchange programs, Forgotten Diamonds, sister cities, etc.
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2011
Specific Outcome:
5.0 Westlake Academy’s IB curricula and assessment methods are a product of continuous
review – On-going Goal
Team Leader(s): Administrative Services Coordinator; Primary, Middle Years and DP
Coordinators
5.1 Westlake Academy in top performing 5% of the following (for all grades):
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2011
Texas Charter schools
Texas public schools
Benchmark schools
5.1.1 Use TAKS and additional criteria, such as, SAT, PSAT, Stanford testing, etc. to
determine comparable exam scores, applicable data sets and proper comparisons to
benchmark our outcomes against other schools
5.1.2 Review the use of the ‘building evidence’ component of the IB to assist the Staff in
identifying the appropriate measures and methods to accurately compare our IB
success with other schools
5.2 Develop methods to review the curriculum and create alignment with TEKS and between the
PYP, MYP and DP programs
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2010
8
Desired Outcome ~ High Student Achievement (cont.)
(Specific Outcome 5.0– Review of IB curricula/assessments, cont.)
5.2.1 Identify subject or activity specific programs (Mathematics, Science, Athletics, Spanish,
English, etc.) to be reviewed annually, each spring and fall, for continuous improvement and
internal evaluations
5.2.2 Create task force for curriculum recommendations on expansion and/or improvements to cur-
rent course offerings (examples: additional foreign language, choir, media arts program, etc.)
Specific Outcome:
6.0 Create a list of benchmark schools for educational comparison and explore the formation of a
consortium group to foster professional collaboration and methods review - Short-Range Goal
Team Leader(s): Administrative Services Coordinator
Specific Outcome:
7.0 Work with Council, stakeholders, teachers, and staff to foster a discussion and generate a
definition of “What makes an excellent school?” – Short- Range Goal
Team Leader(s): Chief Executive Officer and Heads of Section
Specific Outcome:
8.0 Students will possess a working proficiency in a second language – Short/Mid-Range and
On-going Goals
Team Leader(s): Diploma Program Spanish Teacher
8.1 Develop a formalized process to gauge the proficiency levels and gather a teacher based
assessment for each student at the beginning of each school year – (PYP, MYP and DP)
Estimated Completion Date: Summer, 2010
8.2 Students matriculating in grades 6 and 10 meet identified grade level standards for second
language proficiency
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2011
8.3 Graduates will demonstrate the following:
Know how to communicate effectively in a number of situations and within the culture where
the language is spoken
Communicate clearly and effectively in a range of situations; understand and accurately use oral
and written forms of the language
Express ideas with clarity and fluency while understanding the vocabulary and common usage
Possess the ability to understand and respond appropriately to the written and spoken material
of average difficult
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
8.4 Explore the feasibility of a full-time Spanish teacher for the primary grades
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2012
9
Desired Outcome ~ High Student Achievement (cont.)
Specific Outcome:
9.0 Parents will be encouraged to participate in the educational process to support students in
their studies – Short/Mid-Range and On-going Goal
Team Leader(s): Primary, Middle Years, and Diploma Program Coordinators
9.1 Develop methods to achieve 100% attendance rate for new parents at parent/teacher meetings
Estimated Completion Date: Summer, 2011
9.2 Create an educational development process for parents to simulate the student’s IB learning
environment and increase their understanding of the curricula
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2012
9.3 Provide parents with information from the IB action kits to further communications, explain
curriculum and answer related questions
Estimated Completion Date: Summer, 2010
9.4 Draft parent commitment agreement, which will explain the homework requirements, IB
philosophy and learner profile, along with information relative to each program that will
augment the parents understanding of IB and identify the comprehensive structure of the
Westlake Academy learning environment
Estimated Completion Date: Summer, 2010
9.4.1 Provide parenting resources, strategies and weekly focus emails from Staff
9.5 Conduct mandatory new parent meetings to review the parent commitment agreement, and
other items specific to Westlake Academy to thoroughly identify the topics and focus items
necessary for their children to succeed in the school
Estimated Completion Date: On-going
9.5.1 Open meetings to interested parents on the waiting list
9.6 Develop transitional meetings for those students and parents completing one program and
moving into another (PYP to MYP/MYP to DP)
Estimated Completion Date: Summer, 2011
9.7 Identify and provide volunteer opportunities to involve parents/grandparents in the educational
process
Estimated Completion Date: On-going
9.7.1 Streamline the volunteer application process to reduce the clearance time; research the
use of an online application form
9.7.2 Develop process to track the number of volunteer hours and benchmark with other
schools and utilize the data in relative grant opportunities
9.7.3 Examine the feasibility of implementing a full-time volunteer coordinator position
9.8 Create content mechanism for quick parent access to their child’s academic progress in all
subjects
Estimated Completion Date: Summer, 2010
9.8.1 Establish standard procedures, timelines and content for all faculty for placement of
student grades, assignments, course syllabi, etc. for constant parent engagement of child’s
academic progress on a real time basis
10
Desired Outcome ~ High Student Achievement (cont.)
Specific Outcome:
10.0 Consistently review the Staff to student ratio to determine reasonable levels of the number of
students per class – On-going Goal
Team Leader(s): Administrative Services Coordinator
10.1 Heads of Section to perform analysis on an annual basis, during the budget process, and
report the information to the CEO
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
11
Desired Outcome ~ Strong Parent & Community Connections
The involvement of the entire Westlake Academy community is
important to the achievements of the school and the students.
Our group of stakeholders include a wide range of different types
of individuals and contributors who work in tandem with our
educators and Staff on a daily basis.
These range from the families of our children, residents of
Westlake, corporate businesses who support our efforts, and
educational allies, such as various philanthropic foundations. All
of whom help to create the unique environment you and your
student will find at the Academy.
12
Staff will focus on strengthening our ties within the Westlake community, with neighboring
school districts, philanthropic organizations and benchmark schools, through multiple avenues,
such as the use of the Academy’s school newspaper, The Black Cow, the development of internship
programs with local businesses, collaborative efforts for regional training and forming
relationships with education oriented non-profit organizations.
The goal of this Desired Outcome is to further inform our residents and families of the current
topics of interest to the students with the journalistic reflections and articles found in their news
articles along with allowing students the opportunity to explore aspects of the corporate world
by working closely with industry leaders.
In addition, a parent survey will be presented to the Board for approval on an annual or biyearly
basis to promote the formal exchange of information with our parents. This will allow each
family with children in the school to express their opinion on a range of topics which are
important to the direction of the school and our overall success.
Please see the following specific outcomes and indicators associated with Strong Parent
Commitment for more information.
Desired Outcome ~ Strong Parent & Community Connections, (cont.)
Specific Outcome:
1.0 Westlake Academy will work in tandem with the Town to foster community ties – Mid-Range
and On-going Goals
Team Leader(s): Administrative Services Coordinator
1.1. Distribute the Black Cow newspaper to all households in the Westlake Academy community and
Westlake residents
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
1.1.1 Open Black Cow subscription to parents on the waiting list
1.2 Research the development of a newsletter to be distributed to businesses and other concerned
parties in the community
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2012
1.2.1 Work with the Director of the Westlake Academy Foundation to determine the level of
interest and appropriate subject matter of the newsletter
1.3 Investigate the development of a community education program (Spanish courses, partnerships
with local colleges, recycling and composting classes, arts/ceramics)
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2011
1.3.1 Perform a survey to determine the types of courses according to community feedback
1.3.2 Contact the local colleges and discuss partnerships for on-site credit courses as a satellite
campus
1.4 Work with Town Staff to develop an internship program for DP students in the local business
community
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2010
1.4.1 Include the use of job-shadowing on a week-by-week — one time occurrence and/or long
term opportunity
Specific Outcome:
2.0 Maintain multiple avenues of communication between the school and Westlake Academy
stakeholders and develop a communication plan which contains at a minimum:
Team Leader(s): Heads of Section; Administrative Services Coordinator – Short-Range and
On-going Goals
2.1 Conduct the parent survey on an annual, or bi-yearly, basis to assist the Staff in their educational
efforts; identify areas in need of improvement and promote feedback opportunities for the parents
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
2.2 Review the current web site and re-design as needed to increase flexibility and user-friendly
aspects of navigation/information
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2011
2.2.1 Expand Parent survey questions to include additional feedback on web site configuration
and usage trends
13
Desired Outcome ~ Strong Parent & Community Connections, (cont.)
(Specific Outcome—2.0, Stakeholder Communication, cont.)
2.2.2 Compare CMS platforms to streamline the updating procedures for the web site
2.3 Increase the use of technology and outreach measures to foster transparency and involve the
Academy community
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
2.3.1 Develop affiliate access to the web site to provide the House of Commons, Westlake
Academy Athletic Club, Black Cow, etc. with the ability to link their home page to the
school
2.3.2 Draft parameters for posting content to the web site to ensure consistent delivery of
information to parents/students
2.3.3 Publish and maintain grade level web sites and the Academy web site
2.3.4 Research the implementation of online accessible grading systems to inform parents of
student progress
2.3.5 Research the Town’s sign ordinance to determine the feasibility of the construction of an
informational sign to be placed on J. T. Ottinger Road in order to post events and an-
nouncements to the school community and Westlake residents
2.4 Develop and update a community events link through the web site
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2010
2.4.1 Add community events link to include major events such as Arbor Days, Monster Mash,
Tree Lighting Ceremony, Decoration Day, etc.
2.5 Formalize procedures through the CEO’s office to gather feedback from parents and students
who withdraw from the Academy and use for continuous improvement
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2010
Specific Outcome:
3.0 Ensure a smooth transition of new students into Westlake Academy
Team Leader(s): Heads of Section; Primary, Middle Years, and DP Coordinators, Primary and
Secondary Counselors – Short-term and On-going Goals
3.1 Develop peer mentors for new students and families
Estimated Completion Date: Summer, 2010
3.1.1 Encourage House of Commons to assist Staff in the development of the peer mentors for
families
3.1.2 Utilize the student ambassadors to assist new students with their transition in the West-
lake Academy community
3.1.3 Sponsor a mandatory orientation program for new students
3.1.4 Establish annual introductory meetings with DP Coordinator and Secondary Counselor
to answer questions and concerns of the student as it relates to the DP Program
14
Desired Outcome ~ Strong Parent & Community Connections, (cont.)
Specific Outcome:
4.0 Continue to establish local business support to promote the Academy and community
events
Team Leader(s): Foundation Director – Mid-Range and On-going Goals
4.1 Increase corporate community participation in events and activities
Estimated Completion Date: Summer, 2012
4.1.1 Host Westlake Academy night at fast food restaurants to promote fundraising (allow
for a portion of sales to return to the school and/or wear spirit wear to receive
discount); work with HOC, specific class grades to develop opportunities
4.1.2 Host movie nights, etc. with corporate sponsors to build ‘community’ within the
school and Town
4.1.3 Corporate student events – work with business community to sponsor a ‘teaching’
event/night (i.e. Fidelity could speak on saving/investing at an early age, discussions
regarding the types of students businesses would like to employ and/or utilize as in-
terns)
4.1.4 Discuss the posting of athletic jerseys, photos of athletes, sports statistics, etc. in local
restaurants or businesses
Specific Outcome:
5.0 Foster ties with organizations which will assist Westlake Academy in achieving their
goals - such as, other schools and philanthropic groups (Hudson Foundation and
neighboring ISD’s, etc.) – Short-Range Goal
Team Leader(s): Chief Executive Officer, Heads of Section and Administrative Coordinator
15
Desired Outcome ~ Financial Stewardship and Sustainability
Westlake Academy is in a unique situation being an open-
enrollment charter school. Funds for our daily operations are
supplied largely through State of Texas public education funds, as
well as the Town of Westlake funding. These two funding sources
are supplemented by private donations. These important donations
are raised primarily through the annual Blacksmith Campaign,
which is coordinated and conducted by the Westlake Academy
Foundation.
Town of Westlake funding, through the municipal budgeting proc-
ess, remits payments for the debt service on all bonds issued to build
and/or expand the Academy. Cross-organizational support is pro-
vided through the combining of departmental resources from the
Town departments, which include finance, human resources/
administrative, technology, and facilities maintenance, etc., for the
needs of the Academy Staff.
16
Financial stability and the procurement of funds to meet the needs of our current and future students is a
priority for the Academy. The school is an open-enrollment charter school that is owned and operated by
the Town of Westlake, and as such, is the largest operating department of the Town.
A guiding philosophy of the operational practices of the Academy is shown through the use of these types
of resource sharing opportunities that avail themselves when a school is owned and operated by a
municipality. Since a significant portion of the Town’s municipal budget is allocated to the support and
success of the student’s at the Academy, the Town Council/Board of Trustees and the Staff consistently
strive to identify and implement cost saving measures which will increase our capacity to serve our
students while being good stewards of the financial resources of the Town.
The organizational structure which allows the Town Council members to also serve on the Board of
Trustees, further displays the commitment to the success of the school found within the Westlake
community. The board members are able to gain a broad perspective on the challenges and opportunities
facing both the Town as a whole, including the school, while providing consistent and proactive
governance policies to guide the Staff. The budget is approved on an annual basis by the Town Council/
Board of Trustees. The board then works closely with the Westlake Academy Foundation including the
appointment of members to the Foundations’ Board of Directors.
The Town Council/Board members also appoint the executive leadership through the Town Manager/
Chief Executive Officer position. This person oversees and appoints the Westlake Academy Leadership
Team, the Academy’s daily operations, and manages the financial components of the school. In addition,
the Town Manager/CEO, and Academy Leadership Team, work together in supporting the Board’s policy
initiatives, including the Strategic Plan, as well as making recommendations to the Board relative to pol-
icy options and IB academic program choices.
The Staff will continue to look for ways to implement cost savings measures to maximize our financial
return on the money entrusted to us for the student’s education. This will include looking for
opportunities to partner with the Westlake Academy Foundation to sponsor fundraising events and
working with other philanthropic groups who would like to be a part of the success of Westlake
Academy.
Please see the following specific outcomes and indicators associated with Financial Stewardship and
Sustainability for more information.
Desired Outcome ~ Financial Stewardship and Sustainability
Specific Outcomes:
1.0 Westlake Academy will work with the Town staff to provide cost effective services to the
students and stakeholders
Team Leader(s): Administrative Services Coordinator - On-going Goals
1.1 Operate within budget allocation on an annual basis
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
1.1.1 Provide quarterly reports to the Board of Trustees
1.1.2 Staff will remit receipts and deposits to the Finance Department in a timely manner (at
least once a week)
1.1.3 Staff will handle monetary transactions in a manner consistent with the Town’s approved
financial practices policy
1.2 All purchases will be negotiated and/or researched to ensure the best and lowest possible bid/
price for the Academy
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
1.2.1 Heads of Section and Administrative Coordinator will collaborate to identify the best/
appropriate vendor for school related expenditures
Specific Outcome:
2.0 Westlake Academy Staff and students will work with the Town and community to maximize
the efficient use of utilities and procurement of school resources – Short-Range Goal
Team Leader(s): Administrative Services Coordinator; Facilities and Recreation Director;
Technology Coordinator
2.1 Reduce utility costs by 10% within 18-months and explore recycling opportunities
Estimated Completion Date: Summer, 2011
2.1.1 Promote the conservation of electricity, control the usage of water to non-peak hours and
work with the Facilities Director to install rain control sensors for watering
2.1.2 Reduce the use of printers/copiers to lower costs; research ‘printing on demand’
technology similar to college systems (possible electronic submission of assignments)
2.1.3 Recommend new technology to reduce the need to print/copy items (Smart Boards, etc.)
2.14 Work with Public Works and Facilities Director to expand recycling opportunities on
campus (computers, paper, etc.) and to involve community in those efforts
Specific Outcomes:
3.0 Compensation packages for the educators and Staff will be regularly reviewed to remain
competitive with surrounding school districts
Team Leader(s): Director of Administrative Services – On-going Goal
3.1 Goals will be set to maintain teacher compensation at a competitive level as compared with
surrounding school districts
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
17
Desired Outcome ~ Financial Stewardship and Sustainability (cont.)
(Specific Outcome 3.0—Compensation Packages, cont.)
3.1.1 Human Resources Director to perform analysis on an annual basis and prepare a report for
the CEO
3.1.2 Study options and feasibility of compensation systems that reward teacher effectiveness
relative to student achievement
Specific Outcome:
4.0 Staff will support and assist the Westlake Academy Foundation in fundraising and grant
opportunities
Team Leader(s): Heads of Section – Mid-Range and On-going Goals
4.1 Staff will participate in Gallery Night and other fundraising events
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
4.1.1 Art teachers will serve in an advisory capacity to the Director of the Foundation to
promote and recruit parents/students to submit art work for Gallery Night
4.2 Conduct annual joint goal setting meetings with the Foundation and Staff
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
4.3 Create Staff task force to work with the Foundation Director to pursue grant opportunities
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2012
4.4 Work with the Foundation to develop expansion opportunities to increase the number of
students who are provided access to the IB programs
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2013
4.5 Begin the Implementation of an alumni program for the Academy
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2010
Specific Outcome:
5.0 Increase the growth of resources
Team Leader(s): Chief Executive Officer; Heads of Section – Short/Mid-Range and On-going
Goals
5.1 Strive to reach participation rate of 90% of parents in the Blacksmith Apprentice program to
maximize parent participation and support the efforts of the Academy
Estimated Completion Date: On-Going Goal
5.1.1 Conduct informational sessions to explain the importance of the Blacksmith program and
answer questions regarding the donations
5.1.2 Staff to establish meetings with the Foundation to discuss and identify additional
avenues to promote the Blacksmith Program at school events; discuss ways to increase
the parents understanding of the linkage of their donations and the actual use in the
classroom
5.1.3 Work with the Foundation to prepare and distribute flyers and email notifications to
kick-off the campaign drive and follow-up with parents to increase participation rates
18
Desired Outcome ~ Financial Stewardship and Sustainability (cont.)
6.0 Constant study, analysis, and emphasis on effective use of all financial resources to attain
long term financial stability
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2010
6.1 Continued progress each fiscal year to improve Westlake Academy’s operational efficiencies
and move closer to fully covering the following; a.) all operating costs and b.) improved
coverage of direct/indirect costs in the municipal budget.
6.2 Heads of Section/WALT team to work in tandem with CEO to review the financial
requirements and funding options for the school
6.2.1 Research grant opportunities to augment revenue sources
19
Desired Outcome ~ Student Engagement
Student engagement is an integral component of the Academy’s
cornerstone, the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. The IB
curriculum rests on a learning philosophy that emphasizes an
individualized, inquiry based platform tailored to a child’s learning
strengths and can be seen in the profile traits which are woven into
the curriculum of the school. Students are encouraged to display the
following behaviors in their school work and extra-curricular
activities, which are found in the IB Learner Profile:
Inquirers Open-minded
Knowledgeable Caring
Thinkers Risk-takers
Communicators Balanced
Principled Reflective
20
Leadership and community engagement opportunities are provided at Westlake Academy through various
service requirements used to benefit local charities/non-profit based groups. We also use student-based
groups, athletics and are researching the addition of summer educational opportunities to foster student
engagement.
The Academy has implemented a “House” system where each student and faculty member is assigned to a
House for the length of their tenure at the school. Each House was named after individuals who represent
the qualities important to our mission statement. The system fosters school and team spirit, along with a
sense of community through inter-campus competition and service based projects to help those in need.
The Strategic Plan contains initiatives to promote and provide the necessary support for the House system
to thrive and increase student participation.
Students are also engaged through the use of many extra-curricular opportunities such as, music programs,
book and chess clubs, drum line, junior historians, Rotary Interact Club, Future Business Leaders, drama
club, dancing clubs, etiquette classes, etc. The goal is to support the IB through these opportunities, which
allow the students to be well-rounded individuals with varying interests that can be explored and nurtured
in a wide range of student groups.
Athletic programs are also important to the school and allow the children to explore their natural talents
through competitive sports and active exercise-based participation. We offer several options when it
comes to team choice — including, volleyball, soccer, cross-country, six (6) man football, basketball,
softball and baseball, to name a few. Many sports are offered for both a boys and girls team, with our soccer
teams fielding a co-ed mix of students. Competition is balanced with the educational requirements of the
Academy and many of our teams have been successful enough to either advance to or win the Texas
Christian Athletes Fellowship state championships in their respective sports.
Please see the following specific outcomes and indicators associated with Student Engagement for
more information.
Desired Outcome ~ Student Engagement (cont.)
Specific Outcome:
1.0 Westlake Academy Staff will promote school-wide leadership, athletic, community service and
extra-curricular opportunities for students
Team Leader(s): Primary, Middle Years, and DP Coordinators; Athletic Director – Short-Term
and On-going Goals
1.1 Promote and develop community service opportunities to ensure that all students, K-12, complete
the necessary service hours
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2011
1.1.1 Establish online activities calendars, which allow for the coordination of extra-curricular,
athletic, and community service activities
1.1.2 Staff will continually review community service guidelines to prepare PYP and MYP
students to meet the demands of the CAS requirements in the DP program
1.2 Include or expand wording in the Parent Survey to establish a benchmark approval rating for the
athletics sports and extra-curricular programs
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2011
1.2.1 Administer annual student survey to gauge approval rating and suggestions to the sports
and extra-curricular events offered at the Academy
1.2.2 Staff will support and collaborate with the Westlake Academy Athletics Club
1.3 Provide diverse opportunities for non-athletic based extra-curricular programs
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2011
1.3.1 Identify and pursue Staff sponsors for science, debate, Odyssey of the Mind, etc.
1.4 Research and if feasible, implement UIL participation in academic events for students
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2010
1.5 Develop department based strategic plan for athletic program to identify main goals and
objectives to support and serve the student athletes
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2010
1.6 Examine the current athletic conference and compare with alternative groups, such as the
University Interscholastic League (UIL), Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools
(TAPPS), for alternative sports opportunities and a broader base of competition schools
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2010
Specific Outcome:
2.0 Prepare an annual student based survey (current and alumni) to cover topics relative to their ex-
periences at Westlake Academy, satisfaction levels with athletics and extra-curricular programs,
curriculum feedback, etc.
Team Leader(s): Administrative Services Coordinator; Heads of Section – On-Going Goal
21
Desired Outcome ~ Student Engagement (cont.)
Specific Outcome:
3.0 Staff will promote and support the House system
Team Leader(s): House Coordinator – Mid-Range Goal
3.1 Work with the House coordinator to identify House leadership opportunities and establish
regular participation in major events
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2012
3.2 School sponsored service activities to work through the House system to increase participation
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2012
Specific Outcome:
4.0 Westlake Academy will sponsor summer programs for educational advancement
Team Leader(s): Middle Years, Diploma Program Coordinator and Secondary Counselor – Mid-
Range Goal
4.1 Finalize discussions as to the need and offering of summer school programs for Secondary classes
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2010
4.2 Research the ability of summer programs of surrounding businesses, such as the Solana Club and
other school districts, to expand activities into offerings for Academy students
Estimated Completion Date: Spring,2011
Specific Outcome:
5.0 Students will be recognized for achievements
Team Leader(s): Heads of Section – On-Going Goals
5.1 Staff will recognize students within the Westlake Academy community
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goals
5.1.1 Recognition to occur at commendation ceremonies; announcements at flag and where
applicable, through signs posted around the school, in newsletters, and/or Black Cow, etc.
5.2 Students will receive recognition in local newspapers for educational, service and/or athletic
achievements, etc.
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goals
5.2.1 Athletic Director will notify publication entities of sports scores and outstanding student
successes
5.2.2 Staff will provide press releases to publications for notable accomplishments in academics
or service related activities
22
Desired Outcome ~ Effective Educators and Staff
Effective student education cannot and will not occur at Westlake
Academy without effective educators and staff. This is a given,
and for that reason, this desired outcome has been developed and
identified as an important Specific Outcome in the Strategic Plan.
Recruitment, development, and retention of faculty and staff are
the areas of highest dollar investment by Westlake Academy.
Investment in this valuable resource, our employees, yields results
in the classroom as the correlation between high student
achievement and effective teachers is indisputable.
23
To that end, resources will continue to be marshaled through a variety of initiatives identified in this Plan,
all of which, are intended to pursue continuous learning opportunities for Academy faculty and staff.
Emphasis will be maintained on providing, but also increasing, IB training to all our teachers with the goal
of all faculty having the highest level of IB training available.
Other staff learning opportunities will be developed, featured and explored, including but not limited to,
collaborative efforts with area schools to bring nationally and regionally known educational trainers and
speakers for professional development to nurture a culture of continuous improvement for our teachers.
The Strategic Plan identifies the need to map out the Academy’s future campus facility needs so that we can
anticipate the types of facilities our teachers need to be effective in the classroom. A multi-year technology
plan is slated to be developed through this Desired Outcome to coordinate the further implementation of
technology to maximize teacher effectiveness with our students.
Development of Westlake Academy as an, “employer of choice”, will also emphasize strong teacher
recruitment initiatives to hire teachers who are passionate about what they do and seek to inspire their
students to have a passion for learning. Teacher development and retention will include a variety of
mentoring and coaching programs that involve the teacher assessing and critiquing their own performance
to take it to the “next level” with the facilitation of a performance coach. Finally, a variety of means
identified in this Plan will be used to promote an organizational culture that values and fosters leadership
and collaboration among teachers across curricula.
Please see the following specific outcomes and indicators associated with Effective Educators and Staff
for more information.
Desired Outcome ~ Effective Educators and Staff, (cont.)
Specific Outcome:
1.0 Educators and Staff will attend professional development training/opportunities
Team Leader(s): Heads of Section; Primary, Middle Years, and Diploma Coordinators – Short/
Mid-Range and On-going Goals
1.1 Develop an organizational culture and framework for professional development
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goals
1.1.1 Heads of Section to work with Staff to identify the type/frequency of training opportunities
1.1.2 Maintain imbedded professional development within the IB for Staff
1.1.3 Conduct public speaking training, teamwork and leadership development for Staff
1.1.4 Examine the feasibility of developing an in-house professional development coordinator
position
1.2 Examine the implementation of a teacher focused professional development program such as the
National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS)
Estimated Completion Date: Summer, 2010
1.2.1 Prepare a report for the Board of Trustees outlining the benefits and professional
development advantages of the program
1.3 Secure funding for the leadership team to participate in the Change Leadership Group training, or
similar programs, which focuses on educational leadership and mentoring of teachers
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2011
1.4 Staff will provide reports on workshops and professional development meetings
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2011
1.4.1 Develop a workshop summary form to describe experiences and record materials and
contacts from workshops; Organize to provide reference for all teachers
1.4.2 Implement effective teaching strategies acquired from attending professional development
training sessions
1.4.3 Prepare presentations to the Board of Trustees, on an as needed basis, outlining the benefits
and training received at professional development courses
1.5 Research the hosting of professional development courses with surrounding schools and local
businesses
Estimated Completion Date: Summer, 2013
1.5.1 Contact schools to determine interest and opportunities for training
1.5.2 Prepare report and submit to Head(s) of Section/CEO/BOT by Fall of 2010
24
Desired Outcome ~ Effective Educators and Staff, (cont.)
Specific Outcome:
2.0 Staff will conduct on-site visits with IB officials for evaluation purposes and perform periodic
review of the Academy’s Charter document
Team Leader(s): Heads of Section – On-going Goals
2.1 Conduct consistent review of the Academy Charter along with appropriate recommendations to
the Board as to necessary procedural changes and amendments
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goals
2.2 Staff will work with administration to complete preparatory activities and official on-site visits
for IB evaluation and Charter renewal applications
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goals
Specific Outcome:
3.0 Promote an environment and culture which fosters leadership and collaboration across K-12
faculty
Team Leader(s): Heads of Section – Short-Range and On-Going Goals
3.1 Hold monthly whole staff/faculty meetings and ‘as needed’ section meetings to promote staff
development
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
3.2 Incorporate the strategic plan of Westlake Academy into staff meetings and into staff participa-
tion activities
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
3.3 Integrate the mission, vision and value statements of the Academy into documents and staff com-
munications; post the information in various school locations
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2010
3.4 Conduct Westlake Academy Leadership Team meetings on a regular basis
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
3.5 Implement the use of video sessions to provide feedback on meeting structure and avenues for
improvement of leadership team and presenters of information to faculty
Estimated Completion Date: Summer, 2011
Specific Outcome:
4.0 Draft long-range facility master plan and integrate with the capital improvement plan (CIP) for
the Town of Westlake
Team Leader(s): Chief Executive Officer; Facilities and Recreation Director – Short-Range Goal
4.1 Work with the Leadership Team to establish a viable facility planning and review process
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2011
4.2 Draft facility master plan (FMP) scope with the Board and receive direction
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2011
4.3 Integrate with the CIP for the Town
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2011
25
Desired Outcome ~ Effective Educators and Staff, (cont.)
Specific Outcome:
5.0 WA will recruit, develop, and retain effective and highly qualified teachers , staff and
management
Team Leader(s): Chief Executive Officer and Heads of Section – Short-Range and On-going Goal
5.1 Develop a specific profile and definition of the traits, abilities, skills, and competencies, which
define an “effective, highly qualified and accomplished teacher, support staff (non-teaching)
position, and Head of Section (principal) position”
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2010
5.1.1 Incorporate the profile into the annual review process for Staff
5.2 Create teaching teams to support and review in-class presentations and teaching methods
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2012
5.2.1 Video tape four (4) classroom sessions for each teacher, on an annual basis, to create a
method for coaching Staff
5.3 Review the use of ‘Fund 100’ for teacher and staff development opportunities (teacher grants,
professional development, legacy teachers)
Estimated Completion Date: Spring, 2011
5.4 All teachers will receive IB training, as well as Staff and administrators becoming conversant in
all state requirements
Estimated Completion Date: On-going Goal
5.5 Perform exit interviews with all teachers/staff to determine reasons for leaving and possible im-
provements
Estimated Completion Date: Fall, 2010
5.5.1 Closely monitor and track reasons for voluntary contract refusal
Specific Outcome:
6.0 Develop a multi-year technology plan for the Academy
Team Leader(s): Director of Administrative Services – Mid-Range Goal
Specific Outcome:
7.0 Structure, systems, and protocols that address academic and administrative needs will be
implemented and communicated to Staff
Team Leader(s): Administrative Coordinator – Mid-Range Goal
7.1 Compile a list of all internal processes (e.g. field trip procedures, check requests, attendance,
expense accounts, etc.) and place in a single manual for teachers/staff
Estimated Completion Date: Summer, 2012
7.2 Codify all procedures and protocols for the school and make the accessible to faculty and staff
Estimated Completion Date: Summer, 2012
7.2.1 Compile a list of all reports required for IB, state and federal authorities and put into
place procedures to ensure full compliance
26
3 Village Circle, Suite 202 ~Westlake, Texas 76262
Metro: 817-430-0941 ~ Fax: 817-430-1812 ~ www.westlake-tx.org
MEMORANDUM
Date: December 7, 2009
TO: Municipal Leadership Team
Westlake Academy Leadership Team
FROM: Tom Brymer, Town Manager/CEO Westlake Academy
SUBJECT: Council Meeting Schedule and the Strategic Planning/Budget
Calendar for Both Westlake Academy and the Town of Westlake
The 2010 Board/Council meeting calendar has been compiled. We have
incorporated, as much as possible, key dates for meetings focused on strategic
planning and/or budgeting for both Westlake Academy and the Town. Here is
some additional detail presented in a different format than what is on the
proposed calendar:
Westlake Academy Academic Services Budget and Strategic Plan
• Dec. 2009- WALT meeting to discuss FY 10-11 Budget
• Jan. 2010- meet with WA affiliates for joint planning for FY 2010
• Jan. 4, 2010 present draft WA Strategic Plan to BOT
• Feb. 1, 2010- discussion with BOT of broad overview of WA’s 2010-2011
(early input, including review of updated WA financial forecast)
• March/April 2010- parents’ survey
• June 18, 2010 WA FY 10-11 Proposed Academic Services Budget and
Strategic Planning Retreat (note: this is a Friday and would be from
9:00am to 1:00pm)
• August 16, 2010- Board adoption of WA FY10-11 Academic Services
Budget
Town of Westlake Municipal Budget
• Jan. 25, 2010- Review of Strategic Plan progress to date/discuss
Citizens’ Survey
• Feb. 22, 2010- Council ranking of municipal programs/services
• May 12, 2010- New Council orientation
• May 24, 2010- After election strategic planning retreat to preview the
municipal budget (early input), Town financial forecast, and discuss
progress and updates to the strategic plan
• Aug. 13, 2010- Presentation of FY 10-11 proposed municipal budget in
retreat (note: this is a Friday and would be from 9:00am-1:00pm)
• Sept. 27, 2010- Council adoption of FY 10-11 municipal budget
Memo
Westlake Academy
To: Honorable President and Members of the Board of Trustees
From: Tom Brymer, CEO
Subject: Workshop Meeting of April 5, 2010
Date: March 30, 2010
Discussion of Board of Trustee Governance as Set Out 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):
At the December 7, 2010 Board meeting, the Board agreed to place on its future
workshop agendas, when agenda work load permitted, 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 member Larry Corson has
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) of
Dr. Carpenter’s book.
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. Recommend that all Board members read Chapters 1and 2 and
Dr. Carpenter’s book and 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.
BOARD CALENDAR
- Bandana Bonanza
May 1, 2010
- Election Day
May 8, 2010
- Board Meeting
May 10, 2010
- New Board Trustee/Council orientation
May 12, 2010
o Texas Charter Schools Association Conference
May 12-14, 2010
- Westlake Academy Graduation
May 23, 2010
o Decoration Day
May 31, 2010
o Board Meeting
June 7, 2010
o Board Budget Retreat – Off Site
June 18, 2010 (Friday 9:00 – 1:00)
o Board Meeting (adoption of budget)
August 16, 2010
Westlake Academy
Item #10
Board Calendar
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: Any Board member may request at a workshop and / or
Board meeting, under “Future Agenda Item Requests”, an agenda item for a future
Board meeting. The Board member making the request will contact the CEO with the
requested item and the CEO will list it on the agenda. At the meeting, the requesting
Board member will explain the item, the need for Board discussion of the item, the
item’s relationship to the Board’s strategic priorities, and the amount of estimated staff
time necessary to prepare for Board discussion. If the requesting Board member
receives a second, the CEO will place the item on the Board agenda calendar allowing
for adequate time for staff preparation on the agenda item.
Rick Rennhack Home Schooled children participating in WA sports.
Carol Langdon A student parking lot with student only access off of
Ottinger Road.
Westlake Academy
Item # 11 –
Future Agenda
Items
Westlake Academy
Item # 12 –
Adjournment
Back up material has not
been provided for this item.