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HomeMy WebLinkAboutIB PYP Part B Supporting ApplicationBarbara Brizuela, principal Westlake Academy 2600 Ottinger Road Westlake, TX 76262 LISA 25 July 2005 Bear Ms Brizuela, international Baccalaureate Organization Organisation du Baccataureat International organizaci6n del Bachitterato Internacional We are in receipt of Westlake Academy's formal application and supporting documentation to the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) for authorization to offer the Primary Years Programme (PYP). Your school has now been granted applicant status. Congratulations and thank you for your commitment to the development of the PYP in your school community. We have reviewed the application and supporting documents and have identified the need for further supporting documentation or clarification. Please send us the following additional or modified documents: 1. Letters indicating financial and philosophical support for the PYP from: 0 tine Principal(s) or Head(s) of School + tie Superintendent of schools; if applicable +'lthe President of the School Board or other governing body-' Statutes or documents confirming the legal status of the school �. Information regarding the composition of the governing body of the school board 4. `Che school's admission policy or parent handbook' Copies of all promotional literature produced by the school and concerning the implementation of the PYP. b: An organizational chart showing staff responsibilities and reporting lines as they relate to the PYP . 7. Teaching staff: + F'YP Professional development undertaken during the previous three years, and planned for the next academic year. Have the staff participated in any Level 2 IBNA regional workshops. Please submit an updated staff development plan. S. An updated three-year action plan for implementation Of the PYP. Please complete appendix 7 of the PYP Application Form Part B. 9 A job description including the time allocation for the PYP coordinator. Include any additional responsibilities teaching/non-teaching that he/she may have. 0. A job description of the primary school principal. k' 1,:1. Information regarding school services such as counseling, support programmes (e.g. special educational needs, additional language support, etc.) International Baccalaureate North America www.ibo.org 475 Riverside Drive, Suite 1600, 1661 west 2nd Avenue, Suite 202, New York, New York 10115 Vancouver, British Columbia V6J 1H3 USA CANADA TEL: 212 696 4464 FAX: 2,12 889 9242 TEL: 604 733 8980 FAX: 604 733 8970 2. Sample class schedules for each year and grade level. This information could include instructional teaching blocks, special or resource area times, and any other daily scheduling information. This may include a statement or a table identifying those parts tj, that are taught through transdisciplinary approach and those that are taught through a t stand-alone approach. 13.1 Information about the school's assessment, recording and reporting policies/strategies. 1Please include examples of school reports to parents. 'JI Information on the ways teaching staff report on student performance in the areas defined by the PYP student profile. Please submit four hard copies of the required documents and one electronic copy (on CD-ROM or floppy disk) to our office by 1 October 2005. To complete the authorization process, a visiting/team from the IBO will conduct an on-site visit of your school in the spring of 2006. We have begun to formulate a calendar of visits and we would like to visit your school on March 13-14, 2006. Please provide confirmation regarding this date so thw we may begin planning the visit. If these dates are not convenient, please let us know and we will make every attempt to re -schedule. Information about the authorization visit can be found in the Guide to the Authorization Visit, enclosed; we urge you to review and share this document with your staff in preparation for your upcoming visit. The PYP School Relations Committee and the IBNA Board make the final recommendation for authorization to the Director General of the IBO after reviewing the application and site visit report of applicant schools. The committee meets twice a year, in January and in June, to review and make recommendations for schools visited in autumn and in winter/spring respectively. In practical terms, this means that schools will be notified of the outcome of their visit in February or July each year. Although it is not necessary to submit additional documentation, please note that the annual fee is only due after authorization has been granted and is currently $3,380 USD. Please revise your projected budget accordingly. If you need more information we will be happy to assist you; please do not hesitate to contact us. We Look forward to working with you in the coming year. Sincerely, Maria S. Hersey P'irP regional manager, IBNA maria.herseyni )o.org Enclosure: PYP Guide to the Authorization Visit Daniel Paccione PYP/MYP associate, IBNA danielpaccioneCibo.org International Baccalaureate North America www.ibo.org 475 Riverside Drive, Suite 1600, 1661 West 2nd Avenue, Suite 202, New York, New York 10115 Vancouver, British Columbia VoJ 1H3 USIA CANADA TEL: 212 696 4464 FAX: 212 889 9242 TEL: 604 733 8980 FAX: 604 733 8970 Westlake Academy September 27, 2005 Maria Hersey Daniel Paccione IBNA 475 Riverside Dr. Suite 1600 New York, NY 10115 Dear Ms.Hersey and Mr Paccione, In response to your letter dated July 25, 2005, please find the requested documents to support the PYP Application, Part B for Westlake Academy. In addition to these items, we invite you to view the progress of the PYP at w-ww.westlakeacademy.org/en/performance.html. If you need more information, please do not hesitate to contact us. Sii-�erely, �� Barbara Brizuela Head of School 2600 JT Ottinger Road * Westlake, Texas 76262 Metro: 817-490-5757 . Fax: 517-490-5758 + www.westlakeacademy.org Town of Westlake Re: Westlake Academy (the Academy) The Town of Westlake (the Town) is the holder of the charter from the State of Texas to operate the Academy as an open -enrollment public charter school. The Academy was founded with the expressed intention of implementing all three of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) programs. Our Mission Statement emphasizes development of high academic standards, promotion of universal values, acceptance of different perspectives, and encouragement of service to the community. As a public school, the Academy receives funds from the State, which have been earmarked in our five-year plan for development of staff in the IBO programs, implementation of the IBO programs, and payment of membership fees. In addition, the Town of Westlake services all debt for the facilities occupied by the Academy, which is about $1.3 million dollars annually. The Town's Board of Aldermen also serves as the Board of Education for the Academy, and enthusiastically supports the IBO philosophy. The Town stands ready to offer further financial support to the Academy as may be needed in order to support the implementation of the IBO programs. Sincerely, 4 Scott Bradley Mayor 2650 JT Ottinger Road • Westlake, Texas 76262 Metro: 817-430-0941 • Fax: 817-430-1812 • www.westlake-tx.org WESTLAKE A C A D E M Y RE: Westlake Academy As Head of School, it is my intention to fulfill the Mission and Charter of the Westlake Academy. The Charter gives reference to the fact that the Academy will implement and seek authorization for all three IBO programmes. Our Mission Statement emphasizes the development of high academic standards, promotion of universal values, acceptance of different perspectives, service to the community and a responsibility shared among Academy, students and parents. As an IBO practitioner and a PYP workshop leader, I am firmly committed to the quality of education that the IBO embodies. Our five-year Westlake Academy Strategic Plan (2005 — 2010) includes budgeting for the implementation, training and administrative cost involved in the three programmes. At present, the Academy is seeking Authorization for PYP, has submitted Application Part A for the MYP and will be initiating a feasibility study this semester for the Diploma Programme. The Board of Education and the Town of Westlake have pledged any further financial monies should they be needed to support the programmes. Yours sincerely, -F. r Barbara Brizuelf Head of School . September 2005 TEXAS EDUCATIONAGENCY 1701 North Congress Ave.* Austin. Texas 78701-1494* 512/463-9734* FAX: 512/463-9838* http://www.tea.state.tx.us December 3, 2003 Scott Bradley Town of Westlake 3 Village Circle, Ste 207 Westlake, TX 76262 Dear Mr. Bradley: Enclosed is a signed contract for the Westlake Academy Charter School. This one is for your school files, and the other original has been placed in your files at the Texas Education Agency. look forward to working with you and your school. Sincerely, Ertha Patrick, Division Manager Division of Charter Schools CC: Trent Petty Enclosure Ful/illin; the Protnise fot-All Texas Children CONTRACT FOR OPEN -ENROLLMENT CHARTER This contract is executed between the Texas State Board of Education (the "Board") and Town of Westlake ("Charter Holder") for a Seventh Generation open -enrollment charter to operate Westlake Academy Charter School, a Texas public school. General Definitions. As used in this contract: "Charter" means the Seventh Generation open - enrollment charter, as provided by, Chapter 12, Subchapter D, Texas Education Code, granted by this contract. "Charter Holder" means the sponsoring entity identified in the charter application and the entity to which a charter is granted by this contract. "Charter school" means the Seventh Generation open -enrollment charter school. The charter school is part of the public school system of Texas and is a charter school within the meaning of 20 U.S.C. § 8066. "Agency" means the Texas Education Agency "Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Education. 2. The Charter. This contract grants to Charter Holder a Seventh Generation open - enrollment charter under Texas Education Code Chapter 12, Subchapter D. The terms of the charter include: (a) this contract; (b) applicable law; (c) Request for Application RFA 701-01-004 (d) any condition, amendment, modification, revision or other change to the charter adopted or ratified by the Board or the Commissioner; (e) all statements, assurances, commitments and representations made by Charter Holder in its application for charter, attachments or related documents, to the extent consistent with the aforementioned (a) through (d); and (f) assurance by Charter Holder, evidenced by execution of this contract, that no false information was submitted to the Agency or the Board by Charter Holder, its agents, or its employees in support of its application for charter. Action inconsistent with the terms of the charter shall constitute a material violation of the charter. 3. Term of Charter. The charter shall be in effect from the date of execution through f�unless renewed or terminated. The grant of this charter does not create mefrt an et1titteto a renewal of the charter. The charter may be renewed for an additional rd de e dined by the Commissioner. 4. , evi�on W -Agreement. The terms of the charter may be revised with the consent of Lhar�&Hole�by written amendment approved by the Commissioner. `1 - I N Students 5. Open -enrollment. Admission and enrollment of students shall be open to any person who resides within the geographic boundaries stated in the charter application and who is eligible for admission based on lawful criteria identified in the charter application. Total enrollment shall not exceed the maximum number of students set out in the charter application. The charter school's admission policy shall prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex, national origin, ethnicity, religion, disability, academic, artistic, or athletic ability, or the district the student would otherwise attend. 6. Non -religious Instruction and Affiliation. The charter school shall not conduct religious instruction. The charter school, the sponsoring entity, and any entity that owns or controls the sponsoring entity in whole or in part (including by the power to select officers or directors) shall be nonsectarian in its programs, policies, employment practices, and all other operations. 7. Children with Disabilities. The charter school is a "local educational agency" as defined by federal law. Charter Holder must comply with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), 20 U.S.C. § 1401, et seq., and implementing regulations; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504), 29 U.S.C. § 794, and implementing regulations; Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), 42 U.S.C. §§ 12131- 12165, and implementing regulations; Chapter 29, Texas Education Code, and implementing rules; and court cases applying these laws. Among the charter school's legal responsibilities in this area are the following: (a) Child Find. Charter Holder must adopt and implement policies and practices that affirmatively seek out, identify, locate, and evaluate children with disabilities enrolled in the charter school or who contact the charter school regarding enrollment. (b) Free Appropriate Public Education. Charter Holder must provide a free appropriate public education to all children including children with disabilities otherwise eligible to enroll in the charter school. If the program, staff, or facilities of the charter school are not capable of meeting the needs of a particular child, Charter Holder must implement changes necessary to accommodate the child at the charter school. If reasonable accommodations would be insufficient to enable the child to benefit from the charter school's program, Charter Holder must, at its own expense, place the child at an appropriate school. (c) Services to Expelled Students. Charter Holder must continue to provide a free appropriate public education to a child with disabilities even after expelling or suspending the child for valid disciplinary reasons. (d) Monitoring. The charter school's implementation of the laws education of children with disabilities will be monitored for compliance by the United States Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs; the United States Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights; the Agency; and others. (e) Due Process Hearings. The charter school's implementation of the laws governing education of children with disabilities will also be subject to scrutiny by the courts if litigation against Charter Holder is brought by individuals affected by the actions of the charter school. 8. Student Performance and Accountability. Charter Holder shall satisfy Chapter 39, Subchapters B, C, D, and G of the Texas Education Code, and related Agency rules, as well as the student performance accountability criteria stated in its application for charter. Financial Management 9. Federal Withholding Requirements. Failure to comply with Internal Revenue Service withholding regulations shall constitute a material violation of the charter. 10. Workers' Compensation. Charter Holder shall extend workers' compensation benefits to charter school employees by (1) becoming a self -insurer; (2) providing insurance under a workers' compensation insurance policy; or (3) entering into an agreement with other entities providing for self-insurance. Governance and Operations I 11. Indemnification. Charter Holder shall hold the Board and Agency harmless from and shall indemnify the Board and Agency against any and all claims, demands, and causes of action of whatever kind or nature asserted by any third party and occurring or in any way incident to, arising out of, or in connection with wrongful acts of Charter Holder, its agents, employees, and subcontractors. This Agreement 12. Entire Agreement. This contract, including all referenced attachments and terms incorporated by reference, contains the entire agreement of tM parties. All prior representations, understandings, and discussions are superseded by this contract. 13. Severability. If any provision of this contract is determined by a court or other tribunal to be unenforceable or invalid for any reason, the remainder of the contract shall remain in full force and effect, so as to give effect to the intent of the parties to the extent valid and enforceable. 14. Conditions of Contract. Execution of this contract by the Board is conditioned on full and timely compliance by Charter Holder with: (a) the terms, required assurances, and conditions of Request for Application RFA 701-01-004; (b) applicable law; and (c) all commitments and representations made in Charter Holder's application and any supporting documents (to the extent such commitments and representations are consistent with the terms of this contract). 15. No Waiver of Breach. No assent, express or implied, to any breach of any of the covenants or agreements herein shall waive any succeeding or other breach. 16. Venue. Any suit arising under this contract shall be brought in Travis County, Texas. 17. Governing Law. In any suit arising under this contract, Texas law shall apply. 18. Laws and Rules Applicable. By executing this contract, the undersigned representatives of Charter Halder represent that they have read and understand the rules adopted by the Board and the Commissioner pursuant to Texas Education Code Chapter 12, Subchapter D and that they have had full opportunity to consult with their own legal counsel concerning said rules prior to executing this agreement. The undersigned representatives further understand and agree that: (a) the terms of this contract, and of the Seventh Generation open -enrollment charter created by this contract, include all applicable state and federal laws, including all applicable rules and regulations; (b) the rules and regulations adopted pursuant to state and federal law may be adopted, amended or repealed from time to time; and (c) all such changes to the rules and regulations applicable to Charter Holder shall become an essential part of this contract and of the open -enrollment charter created by this contract, as of the effective date provided in the rule or regulation. 19. Eligibility and Authority. By executing this contract, Charter Holder represents that it is an "eligible entity" within the meaning of Section 12.101 (a), Texas Education Code. Charter Holder shall immediately notify the Commissioner of any legal change in its status, which would disqualify it from holding the charter, of any violation of the terms and conditions of this contract, or of any change in the chief operating officer of the Charter Holder. Charter Holder further represents that the person signing this contract has been properly delegated authority to do so. Entered into tfq -L day o 2003. T State Board duc tion: Town of Westlake: G raldine Miller, Ch it a e Scott Br dley, Chair Date Westlake Academy Charter School: Trent Petty, Date Chief Operating Officer 4 Westlake Academy 1. Evidence of Eligibility of Sponsoring Entity G. Statement describing sponsoring entity The town of Westlake was founded in 1958 by a handful of oilmen and ranchers in order to protect themselves from encroachment by the MidCities. In 1992 the Town adopted a comprehensive plan providing for future office campuses, limited retail, and residential uses compatible with the preservation of the rural atmosphere. Westlake is home to Solana, which was designed by world famous Mexican architect Ricardo Legoretto. It is an environmentally sensitive development of the type contemplated by the Westlake plan. Hundreds of acres of native trees and wildflowers have been preserved for the enjoyment of residents and visitors. Major tenants in Solana include IBM Corporation, Marriott Hotel, Mercedes Benz Credit Corporation, Wells Fargo and Prime Co. Solana also offers these tenants and surrounding communities a full-service health and fitness club, an education center and a child development center. The 1993 purchase of the 2,000 acre Circle T Ranch by Alliance Development Company is expected to contribute to Westlake's future as a village where commercial, retail and residential uses enhance rather than destroy the natural beauty of the landscape. As a governmental entity, the Town of Westlake found that it was in the public interest that a non-profit corporation, the Westlake Academy Corporation, be created under the Texas Non -Profit Corporation Act to act on behalf of the Town as it duly constituted authority and instrumentality, within the meaning of the Internal Revenue Code of 1988, as amended, for the purpose of providing educational services and facilities. In lieu of 501 c 3 status, see Attachment #1 for the instrumentality resolution, H. Articles of Incorporation of sponsoring entity For a copy of the Articles of Incorporation of the sponsoring entity, see the Town of Westlake, see Attachment #2. 00014 12 Westlake Academy 1. Bylaws of sponsoring entity As a governmental entity, Westlake does not have Bylaws; however, the Bylaws for Westlake Academy Corporation, the instrumentality is included in Attachment #3. J. Biographical Affidavits for each member of the governing Board of the sponsoring entity For biographical affidavits for each member of the Governing Board of the Town of Westlake, see Attachment #4. K. History of sponsoring entity 1. Financial history of the entity The town of Westlake is debt free, and consequently has unfettered bonding capacity. Because of the Town's exercise of fiscal discipline, there has not yet been need to assess an ad valorem tax or to issue any debt instrument. However, it may become necessary to finance capital improvements that would be leased by the Westlake Academy. 2. Credit report As a governmental entity, the Town of Westlake does not have a credit report. Therefore Attachment #5 is not applicable. 3. Most recent IRS filing As a governmental entity, the Town of Westlake does not file with the internal Revenue Service; therefore, Attachment 46 is not applicable. 4. Disclosure of any liens As a governmental entity, the Town of Westlake does not have any liens. 5. Litigation History About 1982, a developer whose request for a zoning change was denied sued the Town. The suit, filed in a district court in Tarrant County, alleged that the Town had not been validly incorporated. 00015 13 Westlake Academy The judgment found as a matter of law and fact that the Town had been duly and validly incorporated in 1956. About 1992, the trustee of the Bankruptcy Estate of Nelson Bunker Hunt sued the Town alleging conspiracy by the Town, its mayor and its aldermen to deny his alleged right to obtain zoning changes to his liking. The Town, the mayor and the aldermen won all aspects of the lawsuit except for minor relief granted to the trustee. In 1997, Ross Perot, Jr.'s Hillwood Development Company initiated a scheme to dismantle the Town. Several lawsuits involving the Town, its mayor, its aldermen, its officers and several residents ensued in which, depending on the form; these parties became plaintiff, defendant or cross plaintiffs. All of the lawsuits were resolved or settled in favor of the Town, its mayor, the aldermen, the Town's officers and the residents. The litigation culminated in a landmark 9-0 decision by the Texas Supreme Court upholding the Town's position. As a town, Westlake is routinely involved in litigation of civil matters including code of ordinance violations, land disputes and any other matter typical of municipal regulatory objection. 6. Sanctions from any state regulatory agency There are no sanctions from any state regulatory agency. OGU6 14 Westlake Academy Il. Governance of the Sponsoring Entity A. Profile of the Founding Board and/or Initial Incorporators of the sponsoring entity. The Town of Westlake is a governmental entity; thus, this is not applicable. B. Describe the organizing group of initial incorporators who are working together to apply for a charter, including the names of the organizer, their backgrounds and experiences, and three references for each. A group of interested individuals who serve as Aldermen for the Town of Westlake have envisioned for some time having a school in their community. This focus has resulted in the development of an open enrollment charter school in Westlake, Texas. The background and experience of each of the Aldermen is reflected in the Biographical Affidavits, (See Attachment #4). Scott Bradley Fred Held Don Redding Larry Sparrow Buddy Brown Bill Frey The following individuals will serve as references for each of the Board members: Honorable Vicki Truitt State Representative P.O. Box 2910 Austin, TX 78768 Commissioner James P. Carter Courthouse on the Square 110 West Hickory Denton, TX 76201 Wanda Haskins 5920 Steve Court Westlake, TX 76262 15 Westlake Academy C. Describe what role each person will play and why he/she has chosen to support the application. Each and every member of the organizing groups of initial incorporators has performed essential roles and duties in the planning and organizing of the proposed charter school. These roles, although not limited to, have ranged from visionary leadership to guidance and direction in the early stages of planning the school to advocacy for the success of the new school. D. Describe the following as pertains to the sponsoring entity: 1. The officer positions designated Mayor The responsibilities of the Mayor of the governing Board are all inclusive. The Mayor leads the members of the Board in setting policy for the operations of the Town of Westlake. The Mayor conducts Board meetings so that all parties involved are given a fair opportunity to present their concerns. Mayor Pro -Tem The duties and responsibilities are prescribed such that in the absence of the Mayor, the Mayor Pro Tem of the Board shall perform all duties of the Mayor. Secretary of the Board of Aldermen The Secretary of the Board shall see that all notices are duly given as required by law. The Secretary shall act as custodian of the minutes of the meetings, its Corporate Record Book, and any other records. In general, the Secretary will perform all duties incidental to the office of Secretary, and other duties such that may be required by the Board. 2. The manner in which officers are selected and removed from office Each office shall be appointed by the Board for a term of two years and shall continue to serve until his/her successor is appointed and assumes office. Each officer is subject to removal from office (with or without cause) at any time by the vote of a two-thirds majority of the Directors in office. A vacancy in any office shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment for the unexpired term thereof. 000-18- 16 00-18-16 Westlake Academy 3. The manner in which members of the governing body are selected and removed from office The Board of Aldermen consists of six (6) members elected to two (2) year terms. They are removed from office during the election process. 4. The manner in which vacancies on the governing board are filled Depending on the timeline of the vacancy a special election may be called. 5. The term for which members of the governing body serve Aldermen are elected to serve a two-year term. 6. Whether the terms are to be staggered The terms are staggered with three aldermen being elected in one year and the other three aldermen positions being elected the following year. E. Include any plans for further recruitment of founders or organizers of the school. The Board will actively investigate the possibility of bringing additional individuals to the Board. Specific individuals with a working knowledge of charter schools and educational law will be considered as well as those individuals with strong community ties. Additionally, plans will be implemented for an Advisory Board, non-voting members, which will consist of Westlake Academy employees, students, and volunteers, representing the diverse community of the school. The following committees will be staffed: • Admissions and Community Relations • Compliance and Evaluation ■ Curriculum • Finance and Fundraising • Marketing ■ Personnel 00019 17 Westlake Academy F. Explain the manner in which the charter school will conduct textbook selection. Three employees of Westlake Academy will be designated as Textbook Coordinators, one in elementary school, one in middle school, and one in high school. These individuals will chair the respective textbook committees, comprised of faculty, parent, and community representatives. The Director and Principal will serve as advisory members of each committee. The books will be on review for a ten-day period for parent viewing prior to presentation to the Board. The committees will make their, recommendations to the Board at its regularly scheduled February meeting. The public may make comments on textbooks under consideration at this meeting. Research indicates that more challenging books — those that are written at or just above the student's level — lead to better reading achievement. Reading expert Jeanne S. Chall has found that students who use more demanding textbooks tend to score higher on their college entrance exams. Furthermore, books used in the first few years of school seem to make the greatest difference. With this research in mind, the textbook committee will focus on challenging books for all students. G. School Management Board (if different from sponsoring entity Board) The officer positions designated for the Westlake Academy Corporation are: President The president shall preside at all meetings of the Board. The president is the chief executive officer of the Corporation and, subject to the control of the Board, shall have general charge and supervision of the management of the affairs of the Corporation. The president shall cause all orders and resolutions of the Board to be put into effect. The president shall sign and execute all legal documents and instruments in the name of the Corporation when authorized to do so by the Board, except when the signing and execution thereof is delegated by the Board to some other officer or to an agent of the Corporation. The responsibilities of the President of the governing Board of the charter school are all inclusive. The President is responsible to the state and the parents for the safety and well being of all students and employees of the school. The President leads the members of 000201 18 Westlake Academy the Board in setting policy for the operation of the school and with the assistance of the Executive Director, sets the monthly board meeting agenda. The President conducts Board meetings so that all parties involved in the school are given a fair opportunity to present their concerns. Vice -President The Vice -President shall, in the event of the absence or disability of the President; discharge the powers and duties of the President, and the Vice -President shall perform such additional duties as may be assigned from time to time by the Board. Secretary The Secretary of the Board shall see that all notices are duly given as required by law. The Secretary shall act as custodian of the minutes of the meetings, its Corporate Record Book, and any other records. In general, the Secretary will perform all duties incidental to the office of Secretary, and other duties such that may be required by the Board. OW i 19 �E WESTLAKE A C A D E M Y 2005-2006 Parent/ Student Handbook HEAD OF SCHOOL'S MESSAGE: WESTLAKE A C A D E M Y Dear Students and Parents, I am pleased and excited to welcome you as students and families to Westlake Academy. Together we will forge a community, which places high value on educating young people to become life long learners, active participants and agents of change in a rapidly changi global environment. ng Our curriculum emphasizes building character and the social and academic skills students will need to become critical and compassionate thinkers. Our teachers are determined to guide each student toward fulfilling his or her potential using the best teaching practices. Please take a few moments to read this handbook as it provides the basic ingredients for success at School. Keep it at hand throughout the year for reference to routine and educational procedures and guidelines. Westlake Academy is a truly unique educational institution offering an international, inquiry_ based curriculum in a public, open enrollment environment. We hope that each one of you, whether student or parent, will contribute to Westlake Academy's vision. With teamwork between home and School, we will truly make a difference for your child. Welcome! We have a whole new world ahead of us! Yours sincerely, Barbara Lilly Brizuela TABLE OF CONTENTS ADMISSION ........................... .................................... Application Procedures: ...................................... '"""'•••••••••••••••••5 _ AdmissionOrder: .............................................................................................. Siblings ....................................................................................................................................................... ........................7 Year to Year Admission.........................................................................................................................7 7 ARRIVING AND LEAVING SCHOOL Security ....................................................... .....8 ATTENDANCE........................................................................ ................................................................ 8 Parent Cooperation ............................ ...................$ ---------------------- - - sences ........................................ ................................. - -- - - -= -.........,..x:� ------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------ Truancy ............................................................................................... -- . ----- -- - - - \ Tardiness................................�,..:��' Tardiness Health and Safety .................. :.:,:<. ' Fire and Emergency Drills ........................................... Student Passes.............................................................................. Iy Closed Campus ........................ ............12 CODE OF CONDUCT ..............12 .................. Guiding Principles........................................................ .............. .............13 Roles and Responsibility..................................................................... 12 Assemblies and Events 14 ............................................................................................................15 Restrooms ............................... The Dining Hall .............................. Playground and Athletic Fields 16 ............................................... Lockers ........................................................................................................ ...16 School and Personal Property "............• 16 DISCIPLINE ........... Due Process ................... .............................................................18 Drugs, Tobacco and Alcohol Use .............................................. """"""...................19 Disciplinary Actions................................19 Reasonable Restraint ............................. ..................... ..........................................................19 Parental Compliance """""""' 21 UNIFORM POLICY 22 .......................... Dress Uniform Requirements . ........... 22 Consequences for Uniform Violations ...................... 23 """""' """""" COMMUNICATION 22 ReportCards.................................................................... .............. 24 Parent Teacher Meetings ........................................... •••••••••24 ................................................................................................ ACADEMICS......................................................... .............................................. 24 .... �............................................................. 25 Introduction to the PrimaryYears Programme 25 Introduction to the Middle Years Programme (MYP).. .......................................................... The Curriculum...................................................... 25 Homework Policy .................................... ........ X HOUSESYSTEM .............................. ................................................................................ 31 ................................................................ EXTRA -CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ............... 2 Athletics..................................................... . PARENTINVOLVEMENT..................................................................................................32 Volunteers....................................... Visitors......................................................................................... STUDENT RECORDS35 ...........................................................................................................35 AnnualDisclosure................................................................ ......35 ..................... Statement of Intent to Comply ...................................... ..........35 ................................................ ADDITIONAL INFORMATION..........................................................................................36 Lunches................................................................................ PermissionSlips...................................................................................... 36 ............................ Lost and Found.......................................................................................................................36 Telephone............................................................................ 36 Class Celebrations......................................................................... AGREEMENT OF SUPPORT36 ...............................................................................................35 Athletics.................................................................................................................. 32 PARENT INVOLVEMENT..............................................................................................32 Volunteers........................................................................................................................... 34 Visitors................................................................................................................................35 STUDENTRECORDS.......................................................................................................35 AnnualDisclosure...............................................................................................................35 Statement of Intent to Comply............................................................................................35 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION......................................................................................36 Lunches..............................................................................................................................36 PermissionSlips..................................................................................................................36 Lostand Found...................................................................................................................36 Telephone...........................................................................................................................36 ClassCelebrations...............................................................................................................36 AGREEMENTOF SUPPORT...........................................................................................35 LIM-0ylYll\:ill A C A D E M Y Mission Statement The Westlake Academy will provide a rigorous Curriculum that is international in scope with high expectations by sharing the responsibility of educational development among teachers, parents, community, and students. This will be achieved by providing an innovative approach to education that focuses on the needs of each student to develop a thirst for knowledge, produce positive esteem, encourage good citizenship and maximize individual potential. This will prepare students to be active participants and agents of change in a rapidly changing environment that is global in scope. 4 ADMISSION The Westlake Academy is an open -enrollment Charter School operating under a Charter awarded to the Town of Westlake by the Texas State Board of Education, with oversight by the Texas Education Agency (TEA), Charter School Division. An open -enrollment Charter School may not deny admission to a student based on sex, national origin, ethnicity, religion, disability, academic ability, artistic ability, athletic ability, or based on the school district that the child would otherwise attend. The Academy is committed to obtaining and maintaining a diversified student and staff population.' Definitions: z Initial Primary Geographic Boundary Family is a family that resided in Westlake and whose student was enrolled in Westlake Academy on June 41', 2004 or was enrolled in Kindergarten on May 30, 2005. Lottery means a publicly posted and publicly conducted random drawing from names of qualified Transfer Students desiring admission to the Westlake Academy. Lottery Application Deadline is the last day of January of the calendar year of desired entry. Primary Geographic Boundary Student means a child of school age: (a) living with his/her parent or legal guardian who is a resident of Westlake, or (b) whose parent or grandparent is listed in the TEA Charter Application as a Founder or Officer of the Westlake Academy, or (c) whose parent or legal guardian is employed by the Town of Westlake or the Westlake Academy. In order to be considered a Primary Geographic Boundary Student, parents or legal guardians with whom the student resides must reside in Westlake or have on file with the Town of Westlake an approved residential Building Permit prior to September 1s` of the school year in which admission is sought. Eligibility for students admitted under this provision will be withdrawn if, in the opinion of the CEO, there is no satisfactory demonstration of intent to live in Westlake by September Vt of the following year. Sibling means the brother or sister of a student enrolled in Westlake Academy. This definition includes adopted brothers and/or sisters, and children residing in the same household with their parent(s) or legal guardian(s). Transfer Student means any child of school age that does not meet the definition of Primary Geographic Boundary Student. ' September, 2005 2 April, 2005 Waiting List means a list of applicants desiring admission when space becomes available. Waiting List applicants are admitted in the order they appear. Elib bili1y: All eligible Primary Geographic Boundary Students and Initial Primary Geographic Boundary Family students will be admitted to the school. The burden for proving eligibility rests with the family of the applicant for admission. Legal verification of residency may be required at any time. For eligibility purposes, residency of the child of divorced parents is considered to be that of the sole managing conservator or the joint managing conservator with whom the student lives for the majority of the school week. Transfer Students are eligible for admission based on available space. Transfer Students may be admitted after all eligible Primary Geographic Boundary Students, Initial Primary Geographic Boundary Family students, and Siblings of students enrolled in Westlake Academy, are admitted. If more Transfer Students seek enrollment than space is available, then a Lottery will determine admission order of the Transfer Students. No Lottery will be conducted for any grade that has a Waiting List. Transfer Students desiring admission after the Lottery has been conducted will be placed at the bottom of the Waiting List and may be admitted as space becomes available. The Academy reserves the right to deny admission to any student regardless of residency. Westlake Academy will not enroll any student who has been subject to expulsion or who is awaiting expulsion from any educational institution. Admission rules may be changed or modified at any time by the Board of Directors of the Westlake Academy, or as may be required by applicable laws, rules or regulations. Application Procedures: All parents wishing to enroll their students in the Westlake Academy must complete an Application for Enrollment. Applications are available at the Westlake Academy, 2600 Ottinger Road, Westlake, Texas, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Applications should be picked up in person and returned in person. Parents of enrolled students must complete a new application form each year in order to assure that school files are accurate and up to date. Falsification of information provided on the application form is grounds for immediate and permanent removal from the school. The Academy may request a pre -admission interview to ensure that all families are aware of the school's policies, procedures and philosophy.' A class roster will be published by March Vt of each year. An applicant appearing on the roster will be admitted unless he/she fails to meet eligibility requirements on the date classes begin.` 3 September, 2005 d April, 2005 0 Admission Order: FIRST ADMITTED Primary Geographic Boundary Students and Initial Primary Geographic Boundary Family Students SECOND ADMITTED BASED ON AVAILABLE SPACE Siblings of students enrolled in Westlake Academy. THIRD ADMITTED BASED ON AVAILABLE SPACE Transfer Students No student will be admitted unless the Westlake Academy has received a completed application. Applications must be resubmitted each year to enable the Westlake Academy to maintain accurate and current information.' Siblin s The Sibling of an enrolled student may be admitted as space becomes available according to the order in which the first continuously -enrolled sibling was admitted to the Westlake Academy. Year to Year Admission Once admitted to the school, an eligible student automatically qualifies for enrollment in subsequent years without being subject to a Lottery. If, however, a student leaves the school, then that student must reapply and will be moved to the bottom of the Waiting List. Westlake Academy will not enroll any student who has been subject to expulsion or who is awaiting expulsion from any school. If a Primary Geographic Boundary Student (or the parents or guardians with whom he/she resides), who is not a member of an Initial Primary Geographic Boundary Family, removes his/her residency from Westlake, then that student nevertheless will be eligible for enrollment if on the date the residency is removed, the student or at least one of his/her Siblings has completed at least five academic years in Westlake Academy. A student of a Town of Westlake or Westlake Academy employee is eligible for year-to-year admission so long as his/her parent or guardian remains employed by the Town of Westlake or Westlake Academy. A student of a Town of Westlake or Westlake Academy employee whose employment terminates before the employee has completed five continuous years of service will no longer be eligible for admission and will be moved to the bottom of the Waiting List. Except as provided above, a student will be allowed to remain in the school only until the end of the semester in which his/her parents' or guardian's residency or employment (as the case may be) is terminated. 5 April, 2005 If two or more siblings tie for an available position by virtue of their positions on the waiting list, the order of admission will be determined by Lottery. ARRIVING AND LEAVING SCHOOL Westlake Academy does not provide transportation to or from school. For the safety of our students, staff and visitors are to follow the designated traffic flow patterns and speed. Please be extra cautious when dropping off or picking up children and be patient and courteous. Pull all the way forward and pay close attention to those monitoring traffic. Students are not permitted to cross in front of traffic without adult supervision. If a meeting with the teacher is necessary, please park in a designated spot. Students are welcome on campus at or after 7:40 a.m. Those arriving between 7:40 a.m. and 7:50 a.m. must wait in the Commons until 7:50 a.m. when they will be allowed in their classrooms. Classes begin at 8:00 a.m. for all grades. Kindergarten will be dismissed at 2:45 p.m. and all other grades will be dismissed at 3:45 p.m.' Students arriving after 8:00 a.m. are considered tardy. Parents must sign their student(s) in at the school office to pick up a tardy pass prior to going to class. Students arriving after 10:30 am without an acceptable excuse, such as are listed on page 9 will be considered absent and receive a 0 for that day's work.' Security If a parent or guardian needs to pick up a child from school prior to dismissal time, the administrative office will call for the student once the parent has arrived. Parents and/or guardians will be required to sign out the child on the student check in/out notebook maintained in the administrative office. Students will only be released to individuals authorized in writing by parents and/or guardians. Those individuals will be required to show identification. Students are required to leave the campus immediately upon dismissal unless enrolled in a supervised on -campus after-school activity or asked to remain by a teacher. Students may not return to the campus unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. ATTENDANCE Texas Education Code §25.085 requires compulsory attendance for students who are at least sit years old as of September 1 of the applicable school year. The law requires a student to attend public school until the student's 18`h birthday, unless the student is exempt under §25.086. This requirement is enforced through §§25.093 and 25.094. G September 2005 7 September 2005 Developing a habit of regular and punctual attendance xvill help a student throughout his/her educational experience. Poor attendance is a major cause of poor grades and other problems as well as resulting in additional work for both the student and the teacher. Parent Cooperation Westlake Academy requires cooperation from parents in the matter of school attendance and punctuality. Parents should: • Ensure your child arrives and is picked up on time each day. • Schedule routine medical and dental appointments after school hours when possible. • Schedule family vacations during the school's vacation days and notify the school prior to any planned absence. • Inform the office of any absences. Absences' Students are required to be in school except in cases of emergency, illness or religious observance. It is the parents' and/or guardians' responsibility to inform the school of an absence. Parents must call the school office before 9:00 a.m. of the day of the absence or it will be marked "Unexeused." After 9:00 a.m., school officials will notify parents/guardians about the absence. An absence is excused under the following conditions: 1. Personal illness 2. Major religious holiday of the family's faith 3. Emergency doctor or dental appointments which cannot be made after school 4. A death in the family or death of a close friend 5. Other necessary and justifiable reasons as excused by school administrators Unless otherwise exempted by the Head of School, students must be present at least 90% of school days When a student reaches nine (9) total absences within a six month period, or 3 days within a four week period, a letter will be sent home to parents/guardians indicating that continued absences may materially affect the student's progress and will put the parents/guardians in jeopardy of committing an offense as designated in TEC 25.094. When a student reaches eighteen (18) total absences, the Head of School will notify the parents in writing of the student's possible retention. Teachers should be asked for make-up assignments. Assignments that are not made up will be reflected in grades. 8 September 2005 Every three (3) unexcused tardies will be counted as one unexcused absence. Unexcused absences are any absences that have not been excused as defined above and outlined by the Texas Education Agency. Students will be required to complete make-up work. Students who are suspended will receive a zero for that day but are still required to complete make-up work. Truanev Truancy is any absence without the prior knowledge and consent of the parent/guardian or which is in violation of state law and school disciplinary procedures. Truant absences will result in a loss of credit for class work for the hours and/or days of the truancy. In addition, parents will be notified and the following disciplinary measures will be taken: First offense -- The Head of School will assign the student to after- school detention and/or activities to make up the time lost. Second offense -- The Head of School will assign the student to out-of-school activities and/or detention to make up the time lost. Parents/guardians will be notified that the next truancy offense will result in an expulsion hearing before the school board. Third offense -- The student and parents are given oral and written notification that the student has been referred to the Governing board for possible expulsion from Westlake Academy. The student will be suspended pending the board hearing. Tardiness v Tardiness is disruptive to the learning process. It has a negative impact on the entire class. Parents and students share responsibility for being on time to school. If your student is tardy, it is necessary for you as the parent to come in to the office and sign the student in. Students are allowed on campus twenty minutes before classes begin; they are allowed into the classroom ten minutes before classes begin. All students who arrive after flag ceremony are tardy and must report to the front office before going to class. At that time, the student will sign in and receive a pass for admission to class. September 2005 10 Health and Safetv Parents are asked to keep the school and class teachers fully informed of significant changes to their child's health in order to enable us to take the best possible care of each student. When students must take medication at school, either by a physician's order (prescription medication) or by parent or guardian request (non-prescription medication), the following procedure must be observed: 1. A medication consent form provided by Westlake Academy must be completed and signed by the parent or guardian prior to dispensing any medication, ether prescription or non-prescription. A new form is required each year. No medication will be dispensed without parent or guardian consent. 2. Medication must be delivered to the Administrative Office in the original prescription bottle or over-the-counter container. 3. The prescription label must have the student's name, current date, name of medication, dosage, and the time to be given. 4. If dosages should change while the child is on the medication, such changes need to be faxed to the Administrative Office from the doctor and a new prescription bottle must be provided with the changes listed. A new consent form must be completed prior to the new dose being administered. Changes will be made with a doctor's authorization only. 5. The dosage of a non-prescription medication must be within the manufacturer's recommendation as printed on the label. 6. Only teachers may keep and administer medication on field trips. 7. NO CHILD MAY CARRY MEDICINE TO ADMINISTER TO THEMSELVES without a doctor's order on file in the Health Office. This specifically includes inhalers, which cannot be kept on the child's person without a written doctor's order on file in the office Medicines brought to the school and not meeting necessary requirements will not be dispensed by the Administrative Office and will be kept in the office until a parent or guardian verifies the medicine in written form and follows the procedure or takes it home. Medication must be brought to the school by the parent or guardian. Parents must pick up all medications at the end of the school year, or they will be discarded. Parents must initial the consent form when picking up medication. 11 The school will contact parents directly in the event of any medical emergencies. Please ensure that the school is kept informed of any changes of contact telephone numbers so that this service remains efficient. If your child needs emergency medical help, the school uses the services of Westlake Department of Public Safety. With young children, it is very helpful to keep in close contact with the school and classroom teachers about any health problems your child has however slight they may seem. Even small health problems can affect a student's behavior or performance at this age, and it is helpful to us to be aware of any background information, which may help us to help your child. Health and Safety is an issue addressed throughout the school. Children are taught safety measures in all practical activities such as Science and Physical Education. The Science and Physical Education programs regularly focus on issues such as health, hygiene, and nutrition.t0 Assemblies can provide a forum for emphasizing health and safety important to the school community as a whole. Fire and Emergency Drills Fire and emergency drills are held at irregular intervals throughout the school year. When drills are held, it is important for all students, staff and visitors to: 1. Follow the instructions of the teachers. 2. Walk. Do not talk. Move quickly and quietly to the designated area. 3. Check the directions posted near each room's exit. Student Passes Students must check out through the Administrative Office prior to leaving school during the school day. Students who fail to properly check out will be considered truant. No student may leave a classroom without a teacher authorized pass. Closed Campus Westlake Academy maintains a closed campus. Students are not to leave the school grounds from the time school begins in the morning until it ends in the afternoon without written peri ission from the parents. Students returning to school must check in at the Administrative Office and be given a pass to return to class. 10 September 2005 12 CKONIUGIAKOM Westlake Academy policies will be disseminated to all students and parents/guardians regarding offenses that qualify for immediate expulsion. Due process requirements will be adhered to and parents will be involved throughout the process. Parents will be afforded documentation and opportunities for formal and informal appeals. Dangerous, threatening, and other extreme behavior displayed by students and/or parents or guardians can lead to immediate suspension or expulsion from Westlake Academy." Westlake Academy promotes integrity, truth, knowledge, trust, discipline, and respect in a safe learning and teaching environment. The Code of Conduct applies to all students, parents, teachers, and administrators, each of whom has the right to a safe and productive environment. With this right comes the individual responsibility and accountability for maintaining this environment. The underlying goal of a code of conduct is that community members develop the skills and attitudes to become self-disciplined. At Westlake Academy we will endeavor to build an Honor System, which will actively involve community members, including students, in the development and enforcement of discipline procedures. Guiding Principles 1. All members of the Westlake Academy school community — the students, parents or guardians, volunteers, teachers, staff, and administrators must observe the Code of Conduct. 2. All members of the school community are to be treated with dignity and respect, especially persons in authority. 3. Responsible citizenship involves appropriate participation in the Westlake Academy school community. Each member accepts the responsibility to participate in a manner reflecting dignity and respect. 4. Positive reinforcement of good behavior and recognition of a job well done are the most effective means of promoting high standards of behavior and academic achievement. 5. The Westlake Academy does not employ corporal punishment and does not tolerate violent behavior. t' September 2005 13 6. The possession, use, or threatened use of any object to injure another or threaten the safety of the school will not be tolerated. 7. Alcohol and illegal drugs are prohibited on school property or during any school sponsored activity or event. 8. Disruptions of class impede student learning and teacher productivity. All members of the school community are responsible for maintaining a positive learning environment. 9. The Academy will not tolerate any form of plagiarism, including downloading and using information from the intemet without quoting sources. We expect all students to be on their honor and cheating will be dealt with severely. Roles and Responsibility School Board: Provides policy direction that ensures individual student opportunity, excellence, and accountability for the Westlake Academy school community. The School Board will: Develop policies that communicate and uniformly enforce the Westlake Academy Code of Conduct in a manner that ensures their commitment and support. Seek input from students, parents, and staff and review their policies regularly. Provide opportunities for staff to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain excellence. CEO: Under the direction of the School Board, takes a leadership role in policy research and analysis for the school. Responsibilities include supervision of Head of School and oversight of all school related finance, capital planning, and budgeting. Head of School: Under state compliance, the direction of the CEO and School Board, responsible for all daily operations of the school, including the hiring, firing, training, curriculum development, enforcement of School Board policies and compliance of state and federal reporting guidelines. Develops annual budget to be submitted to the CEO, and then Board for approval. Establishes parental participation and involvement guidelines and regularly communicates with students, parents, and the school community. Teachers and School Staff: Under the leadership of the Head of School, maintain order in the school and are expected to hold everyone to the highest standard of respectful and responsible behavior. As role models, staff upholds these high standards when they: • Help students work to their full potential and develop their self-worth; • Communicate regularly and meaningfully with parents; • Maintain consistent standards of behavior for all students; • Demonstrate respect for all students, staff, and parents; 14 • Prepare students for the full responsibilities of citizenship. Students are to be treated with respect and dignity. In return, they must demonstrate respect for themselves, for others, and for the responsibilities of citizenship through acceptable behavior. Respect and responsibility are demonstrated when a student: • Comes to school prepared, on time, and ready to learn; • Shows respect for him/herself, for others, and for those in authority; • Refrains from bringing anything to school that may compromise the safety of others; • Follows the established rules and takes responsibility for his or her own actions. Parents play an important role in the education of their children and have a responsibility to support the efforts of school staff in maintaining a safe and respectful learning environment for all students. Parents fulfill this responsibility when they: • Show an active interest in their child's school work and progress; • Communicate regularly with the school; • Help their child be neat, appropriately dressed, and prepared for school; • Ensure that their child attends school regularly and on time; • Promptly report to the school their child's absence or late arrival; • Become familiar with the Code of Conduct and school rules; • Encourage and assist their child in following the rules of behavior; • Assist school staff in dealing with disciplinary issues. Assemblies and Events Westlake Academy students are expected to be models of exemplary behavior at all times, including during assemblies, performances, school visits, and school events. Exemplary behavior includes: • Entering and exiting in a quiet and orderly manner. • Sitting quietly. • Remaining in place unless excused with an authorized pass. All students attending after-hours events at school must be supervised by a parent or guardian. Restrooms Do not waste time in the restrooms. Remember to keep the restrooms, including mirrors clean. Marking on restroom facilities is not tolerated, nor is playing with restroom equipment. Keep all play equipment out of the restroom areas and let the office know when there is a restroom problem. 15 The Dining Hall • All food and drink must be consumed in the dining hall. Food is not allowed in other areas of the school except as part of an organized event (i.e. parties) or in the case of unusual circumstances (as approved by the teachers or Head of School). It is important that students be able to talk with friends during the lunch period. Keep voices low and do not engage in horseplay or dangerous activities. Students must be seated when eating. • Table manners are expected to be adhered to at all times. • Students are to clean up after themselves, checking all eating areas and throwing away trash. • Students are not to share trade or take other students' food. • No one is allowed in the classrooms during lunchtime unless they have a note of permission from the teacher. • Each family is expected to perform Dining Hall duty at the minimum of twice per .year. 12 Playground and Athletic Fields The playground areas and athletic fields are designed to provide Westlake Academy students with opportunities for recreation and enhancing physical fitness. Students must observe these guidelines to ensure safety: • Play in assigned areas. • Use the play equipment properly. • Play fairly and obey the rules of the game. Pushing, kicking or any form of fighting will not be tolerated. • Do not take food to the playground and athletic fields. • Line up when notified. • Maintain sportsman-like behavior at all times, including respectful language. • Do not kick or throw playground equipment over the fence. Notify staff before going after equipment that has gone over the fence or outside the designated area. Students may not retrieve equipment without permission or supervision. Lockers Lockers are provided for the storage and convenience of personal items such as books, coats, and other necessary belongings. The inside dimensions of a locker are13 approximately 10-1/2 inches by 10-1/2 inches, and 52 inches tall. The school is the owner of and has control of students' lockers and desks. 12 September 2005 13 September 2005 IN Following are rules and guidelines for locker use: • The school is not obligated to issue a locker to students, nor are students required to have a locker. • Students must keep their lockers neat and clean. • Students may not share their lockers with anyone, and are not to use a locker assigned to someone else. • Students may decorate the inside of their lockers as follows: o Any materials used in decorating lockers must be easily and completely removable. Stickers and other materials that cannot be completely removed without locker defacement may not be used. o As with any materials placed in lockers, decorations may not include displays that are offensive in nature, including those of a sexual nature, or that display alcohol, tobacco, firearms, drugs, etc. Students are not to keep valuables in lockers! The school will not be liable for any materials that are lost or stolen. o Wheeled trolleys are not allowed at school or in lockers. Students should use backpacks or bags. School officials may inspect lockers and desks for cleanliness, order and obedience to school rules without notice and without consent. School officials will suspend locker privileges for students not complying with locker rules. School and Personal Property • Personal property such as pagers, game boys, radios/tape players, toys, sports equipment, skateboards, etc., is not allowed at school. • If parents find it necessary to send a student with a cell phone, the phone must be turned off and kept in the locker during school hours. After school, cell phones can be used on school property but not inside school buildings.' • Students who destroy or vandalize school property will be required to pay for loss or damage. If school property is damaged by accident, it should be reported to the teacher or school office immediately. • All basic textbooks are on loan to students for use during the school year. Textbooks are to be kept clean and handled carefully. Name and grade should be written on all book labels in case the book is misplaced. Students are required to pay for lost or damaged books. • Personal belongings should have identification marks. Articles may be claimed before or after school and during lunch only. Lost books are to be turned in or claimed in the school office. • Searches may be conducted when evidence indicates a student may possess items in the locker that are detrimental to the health, safety, and welfare of themselves or others, or are illegal, stolen, or disruptive to the educational process. Items include (but are not limited to) drugs of any type (illegal, prescription, or over the counter), tobacco in any form, alcohol, and weapons. The administration reserves the right to bring drug -sniffing canines into school at any time to check lockers in an effort to 14 September 2005 17 help ensure a drug-free environment. Any illegal items will be confiscated and turned over to the police. DISCIPLINE A student's attitude toward school will play a large role in determining how well he or she does in school. The primary purpose for coming to school should be to grow through classroom and extracurricular activities. Students must remember that they are responsible for their own actions. If any actions are in violation of school guidelines, consequences will have to be accepted. Students are accountable for their behavior on the way to and from school and during any school -sponsored activity. We believe that students who take responsibility for their actions will develop the self- discipline necessary for positive citizenship. Students who can reflect on their strengths and weaknesses are better able to develop a solid understanding of the principles of moral reasoning. To that effect students, at every stage of disciplinary action, will reflect on their actions and suggest ways to improve and to repair the situation. '' The following is a description of guidelines for student behavior. School personnel may counsel students at any time regarding their behavior. Please accept this advice as valuable and understand that the intent is to help students. NO STUDENT OR PARENT/GUARDIAN HAS THE RIGHT TO IMPEDE THE EDUCATION OF ANOTHER STUDENT. 16 Any behavior, which is disruptive to the learning environment, will not be tolerated and the steps described in the disciplinary process will be followed. It is important that parents strive to work with their children and the school personnel in establishing clear expectations for student behavior. The staff has developed a systematic discipline plan, which will be posted in the classrooms and reviewed with students the first day of class. Every effort will be made to develop positive consequences, which can be applied to individual students as well as classrooms. Consistency is important. The overall plan will establish firm and consistent limits for students. The program also establishes a positive educational environment for both the student and teacher. Generally, the following levels will be used to determine consequences for disregarding school and classroom rules: 1. Warning from teacher or supervisor and reflection 2. Discipline from classroom teacher and reflection 3. Teacher discipline, parent notification and reflection 4. Head of School discipline, parent notification and reflection" Severe infractions of the Code of Conduct or disruption considered serious by school personnel will warrant immediate teacher or Head of School intervention. Parents will be 15 September 2005 16 September 2005 17 September 2005 IN notified of serious behavior problems immediately. Suspension, expulsion, or program transfer may result upon the first incident for any of the following: • Defiance of authority • Verbal or physical threat or action against another person • Fighting • Drugs - using, possessing or selling any dangerous, illegal or look-alike drugs, paraphernalia, non -approved prescription drugs or over-the-counter medications • Alcohol - using or possessing any alcoholic or look-alike alcoholic beverages • Tobacco - using or possessing any tobacco or tobacco products • Gambling - wagering or betting money or other stakes on the outcome of any activity • Theft - stealing property of another person or of the school • Weapons/Dangerous Items - Bringing items to school that are considered dangerous • Willfully damaging or destroying school property. • Possession and/or distribution of printed, audio or video material deemed inappropriate by school authorities. Due Process All of Westlake Academy's students are entitled to due process. This means that all students: 1. Must be informed of accusations against them. 2. Must have explained to them the factual basis for the accusations. 3. Must have a chance to present an alternative factual position if the accusations are denied. Drugs, Tobacco and Alcohol Use Any student who sells, gives, possesses, uses or is involved with, or under the influence of, narcotics, dangerous and illicit drugs, tobacco or tobacco products, or alcohol in or on the school property shall be: • Suspended from school and subject to expulsion • Reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency for criminal violations" Disciplinary Actions The consequences for inappropriate behavior are clearly identified and enforced. Students who choose to break school rules and regulations also choose the consequences of their actions. Records are kept. Depending upon the behavior problem of the student, one or more of the following actions may be taken by school officials: 18 September 2005 19 Informal Talk: A teacher or school official will talk to the student and try to reach an agreement regarding how the student should behave. Conference: A formal conference is held between the student and one or more school officials. Parent Involvement: telephone, personal contact, letter or certified letter will notify Parent(s) or guardian(s). A conference may be conducted between the student, parent(s) or legal guardian(s), appropriate school personnel, and any other individuals concerned. Closure from Classes: The student is temporarily removed from one or more classes, but remains at school during these class periods, and may receive other disciplinary action, such as detention or suspension of privileges. Parents will be notified and the action will be recorded in the student's file. Closure from Activities: The student is temporarily suspended from attending and/or participating in school activities, including sports and club activities, dances, and field trips. Assignment to Detention or Work Detail: The student is assigned to detention, or up to an hour of work detail. During detention students will be assigned work by teacher or authorities. Work detail is a one-hour period where the student may be working on projects that will help the community the student has offended. Short Suspension: A short suspension is the withdrawal of the right to attend Westlake Academy or participate in extra -curricular activities for a period of ten days or less. Prior to imposing a short suspension, the student must be notified of the behavior deemed inappropriate and that a short suspension is being considered. The student will then be given an informal hearing before the Head of School, at which time the student will have the opportunity to tell his or her side of the story. If the student's presence creates a clear and present danger, the informal hearing may be waived and the student suspended immediately and the parents notified. As soon as the danger subsides, the due process procedure for short suspensions will be initiated. If, after the informal hearing, the Head of School determines that a short suspension is appropriate, the suspension will be effective immediately, and the student's parents or guardians will be informed of the action by telephone and/or documented letter. Long Term Suspension and or Expulsion: A long suspension is the withdrawal of the right to attend Westlake Academy or participate in extra -curricular activities for a period of eleven days or more. Prior to imposing a long suspension, the student and his or her parents or guardians must be notified of the behavior deemed inappropriate, that a long suspension is being considered. If a parent desires, the 20 parents will be afforded a meeting with the Head of School and CEO. A decision by the Head of School and CEO is appealed to the School Board during an open meeting. A request for a meeting with the Head of School and CEO must be made within five days of notification of the decision to suspend. If the student's presence creates a clear and present danger, the informal hearing may be waived at the direction of the Head of School and the student suspended immediately and the parents notified. Students who have been suspended for any length of time will be on in-house probation for the remainder of the school year. School authorities will meet regularly with the student and parent or guardian to develop an action plan. Progress will determine if the student will be eligible for re -enrollment for the following year. Reasonable Restraint Corporal punishment is not allowed at Westlake Academy. While acting within the scope of their duties and responsibilities, employees may exercise the amount of physical restraint reasonable and necessary to protect the safety of students and/or themselves. When parents have a question or concern, the first person to contact is always the classroom teacher. The teacher can be contacted on a daily basis via the communication notebook that each student has. Teachers can also be contacted by telephoning and leaving a voice mail. If the teacher is unable to deal with your concern, you may be referred to the following in this order: • Head of School • CEO • Board of Education Parental Compliance Westlake Academy is a school of choice. By enrolling their children in the Academy, parents agree to the Mission Statement, policies and curricular program as defined by the Academy. No parent has the right to impede the education and/or educational program of Westlake Academy. Any behavior which entails: • disruptions to the normal ruining of the school • false accusations against any member of the Westlake Academy community • distribution of material (audio, printed, video) not previously approved by the school authorities • forming groups/committees/associations without approval of the school authorities • undermining the performance of duty and authority of teachers • discussing confidential student, parent or family information • threatening students, staff or teachers • derogatory and demeaning behavior aimed at students, teachers, staff or other parents 21 ,vill initially result in counseling and if continued may result in expulsion from Westlake Academy.19 UNIFORM POLICY Appropriate dress and grooming contributes to a productive academic environment in which students can focus on learning, develop an awareness of others, develop character and good citizenship skills, instill respect and self-discipline. Uniform standards also promote a positive image of the school within the community and encourage students to uphold and enhance that image. All students must wear a prescribed uniform at all times while on campus. The prescribed uniform includes a dress uniform, a casual uniform and a gym uniform. • All students in Grades 1 and above must purchase a dress uniform and wear the dress uniform on days prescribed by the Head of School. Students may at their own choosing, wear the dress uniform on any school day. There is no dress uniform requirement for Kindergarten. • All students may purchase a casual uniform which contains several select combinations. Casual uniforms may not be worn on dress uniform days, but may be worn at all other times. • Starting in grade 1, all students will be required to wear the P.E. uniform. The gym uniform is optional for Kindergarten.20 • Once in the school, only the school uniform may be worn. ,jackets, coats or non- uniform sweaters and sweatshirst should be left in the locker if brought to school.. The prescribed uniform must be purchased from Parker Uniforms located at 3001 Highway 121, Suite 286, Euless, TX 76039, phone (817) 545-4000, w-,yw.narkersu.com (Web ID Code FW382853). There are no exceptions to the uniform policy. Students wearing anything other than the prescribed uniform will be sent home. Clothing that resembles the prescribed garments are not permitted. Students shall be required to show proper attention to personal cleanliness, neatness, and school standards of dress and appearance. To that effect: 1. Distracting hairstyles, haircuts or distractive hair coloring is prohibited. 2. Distracting headwear such as "do- rags" and/or bandanas are are prohibited. 3. Nail coloring must not be distractive and must be neatly applied and maintained. 4. Jewelry must complement the uniform. Jewelry for girls is stud earrings, a necklace, a bracelet, a ring, and a basic wristwatch. Boys may wear religious medal, a rings and a basic wristwatch. Jewelry is not to be dangerous or of the body piercing type, except earrings. Students may not wear heavy chains such as studded or wallet types. 5. Shoes should be clean and offer protection to the feet and must not distract from the uniform. Dress shoes must be dark and appropriate for the dress uniform. Boys 19 September 2005 20 September 2004 22 and girls may wear boots that do not distract from the uniform when wearing casual uniform long pants. Boots may not be worn with the dress uniform, nor with shorts, culottes, jumpers or skirts. Tennis shoes may be worn with the casual uniform and must be worn with the gym uniform. Tennis shoe soles must be flat and must be secured with either laces, velcro or zippers. No shoes may be worn with open toe or open heel. Flip-flops, sandals, water shoes, elevated heels, lace up army type boots and unstrapped shoes may not be worn. Shoe laces must be tied. 6. Matching socks must be worn at all times. This includes ankle socks, tri -fold bobby socks, and white tights instead of socks with the casual uniform only. Girls dress socks are a required garment that must be purchased from Parker Uniforms and worn when in dress uniform. Boys and girls must wear white socks when in gym uniform. 7. Boys must wear belts with any trousers or shorts that have belt loops. 8. Hats or sunglasses are not permitted on campus without the Head of School's permission. 9. Girls in Grades 1 onwards, may wear, if desired, fitted, footed, white tights available from Parker Uniforms with their dress uniforms during the winter months.`'' 10. Girls in Grades 1 — 5 may wear, if desired; fitted, footed, white tights available from Parker Uniforms with their casual uniforms during the winter months.' Dress Uniform Requirements Dress Uniform Days will be perscribed by the Head of School in advance. Students will be required to wear their full dress uniform on dress uniform days. Dress uniform requirements are available through the Parker Uniform website at www.parkersu.com (Web ID Code: FW382853). The online code to access the Westlake Academy uniform specifications is available at www.westlakeaeadem�org. While in dress uniform, girls must wear required socks purchased from Parker Uniforms. Boys must wear socks that match the dress uniform pants. Boys socks need not be purchased from Parker Uniforms. Consequences for Uniform Violations During the course of a school year, students who do not comply with the uniform policy will face the following consequences: Minor Infractions (easily remedied; examples: shirt not tucked in; shirt unbuttoned) r' Violation: Verbal warning to student. 2nd Violation: Written warning with parent signature required. 3`d Violation: Written discipline form with; Phone call to parent by classroom teacher, or *In -school service, or '-' December 2004 2= December 2004 23 Next day detention *In -school service duties will depend on the needs of the school at the time of the violation. Duty may include, but is not limited to: trash pick-up, lunchroom cleanup, and sweeping. Major Infractions (not easily remedied; examples: out of uniform; no socks; incorrect color/style) V Violation: Removed from classroom and sent to the office Parent phone call with the following options: Bring a clothing change for student (unexcused absence until clothing is delivered) Pick up student (unexcused absence) 2" Violation: In -school Suspension (unexcused absence) 3' Violation: Out of school Suspension (unexcused absence) COMMUNICATION At Westlake Academy, establishing and maintaining fluid communications with the home enhance a child's success at school. To foster communication, Westlake Academy will post current events and other important school related information on the website at www.westlakeacademy.orIn addition, newsletters and flyers will periodically be sent 'home as reminders of important activities, dates, and events. Report Cards Westlake Academy will send home three report cards and three interim progress reports during the school year on the school day following the end of the six weeks listed below: Interim Progress Reports Report Cards Issued at end of first 6 weeks Grading Period: Week 1 through 12 Issued at end of third 6 weeks Grading Period: Week 13 through 24 Issued at end of fifth 6 weeks Grading Period: Week 25 through 36 Parent Teacher Meetings There are two parent/teacher conferences set per year, one during the fall semester and one during the spring. Parents will meet with teachers to briefly discuss their child's progress. Those parents needing a longer conference time will be asked to make an appointment with teachers at another date: Both parents and teachers with concerns are welcome to make an appointment at any time during the school year to request more frequent conferences. 24 ACADEMICS The Westlake Academy curriculum is extensive, well balanced, and its objective is to cover the various needs and to develop the abilities and skills of all our students. Introduction to the Primary Years Programme (PYP) A commitment to structured inquiry as the ideal learning vehicle is to be found at the core of the Primary Years Programme of the International Baccalaureate. Siff organizing themes help teachers and students explore knoavledge in the broadest sense of the word. Teachers and students use key questions based on concepts in order to give a structure to the units of inquiry. They acquire and apply transdisciplinary skills, while they develop an understanding of those important concepts at the same time. Much of our teaching will be done through units of inquiry. Projects are transdisciplinary. A unit on water may include elements of Language, Science, Mathematics, and Art. Units are carefully planned to draw on children's interests. When children are interested, they participate more actively and learn more. Children will be encouraged to bring information or resources from home to support the work they are doing in the classroom. Parents will be kept informed of each major topic. Whenever possible, cross -curricular links are made to aid children's understanding of the connections between themes. Some subjects, like Mathematics, Language, and Science often need to be taught as individual subjects. In these cases, children will be taught a prepared unit of work such as "Fractions" independently of the current classroom theme. The IB/PYP incorporates five essential elements: concepts, skill, attitudes, actions, and knowledge by means of the following: • A curriculum based on inquiry conducted through a process that encourages students to ask questions and seek answers in the world around them. • Wide and transdisciplinary topics based on a structure that is the expression and extension of three questions related to one another: What do we wish to learn? Which is the best way to learn? How will we know what we have learned? • An integration of Science as a means to explore how the world works, Social Studies as a way to examine and understand the manner in which human beings live and interact amongst themselves and in relation to Earth, and Physical, Social, and Personal Education to enable the consideration of our own welfare and that of others. • A new integration of Mathematics, Language, and the Arts to reinforce concepts and help students to carry out further connections. The objectives of IBO/PYP are expressed as a series of desirable attributes and aptitudes that are characteristic of successful people (Learner Profile). These young people are: 25 ® Inquirers — Who acquire the skills necessary to conduct purposeful, constructive research ® Thinkers — Who exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to make sound decisions and to solve complex problems ® Communicators — Who receive and express ideas and information confidently in more than one language, including the language of mathematical symbols • Risk -takers — Who approach unfamiliar situations without anxiety, have confidence and independence, are courageous and articulate in defending things in which they believe ® Knowledgeable — Who have spent time in school exploring themes with global relevance and importance, and have acquired a critical mass of significant knowledge ® Principled — Who have a sound grasp of the principles of moral reasoning, integrity, honesty and a sense of fairness and justice ® Caring — Who show sensitivity towards the needs and feelings of others and have a personal commitment to action and service • Open-minded — Who respect the views, values and traditions of other individuals and cultures and who are accustomed to seeking and considering a range of points of view • Well-balanced — Who understand the importance of physical and mental balance and personal well-being • Reflective- Who give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and who analyze their personal strengths and weaknesses in a constructive manner An Introduction to the Middle Years ProLyramme Westlake Academy aims to offer the Middle Years Program of International Baccalaureate Organization. The program will run from Grades 7 through 10 and authorization will be sought in the 2006/7 after the trial and application period. The MYP helps students to develop critical thinking skills, to become independent, to work collaboratively and to take a disciplined approach to studying. The program also seeks to provide students with an international perspective and to foster a commitment to service in one's community at the local, national and international level. Students study all the major disciplines, including languages, humanities, science, mathematics, arts, and physical education with an emphasis on the concepts of the subject. The framework is flexible enough to allow a school to accommodate local curricular requirements as well as those of the MYP. Areas of Interaction Five areas known as the Areas of Interaction give the MYP a distinctive core and the program's focus on intellectual and social development. The Areas of Interaction provide common perspectives within and across the disciplines. The five areas of interaction are: ■ Approaches to Learning: teaches students `how to learn' by exploring how to analyze information, how to organize ideas, how to work independently and in collaboration with others, how to solve problems. Students explore different learning styles and develop effective strategies. • Community and Service: encourages students to use skills gained in the classroom to help their communities and to reflect upon how they can make a difference. ■ Homo Faber.• focuses on creation and discovery and considers the ethical dimensions of advances in science, technology, medicine and other areas. ■ Environment: examines our interdependence with the environment and man's responsibility towards it. ■ Health and Social Education: increases student understanding of health issues and develops their ability to evaluate and make decisions. The Personal Project In the final year of the MYP each student must carry out an individual project on a topic that is of particular interest to the student. It is intended to be the culmination of the student's experience with the five areas of interaction. The Curriculum Westlake Academy is responsible for teaching the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) as contained in 19 TAC Chapters 110-128 and must participate in the state-wide assessment program, Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS), to ensure accountability for student achievement. All classrooms will be equipped with a range of books and didactic materials. Science and Mathematics materials help to reinforce concrete understanding of concepts through manipulative investigation of properties. Practical activity underpins theoretical understanding. English English is taught through carefully planned Language Arts and Literature lessons, which combine an understanding of how the English language works within a literary framework. It is further enriched by the wider curriculum taught through the medium of English. Lessons in Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies not only develop specific skills in these 27 subjects, but also provide authentic language experiences, which encourage students to develop a wide and meaningful vocabulary. Language Arts focuses on developing literacy skills through Reading, Speaking, Listening, Thinking, and Writing. Promoting a love of books is a driving force. From Kindergarten, children are exposed to a wide range of authors and literary genres, including stories, songs, and poems. Non-fiction research skills are systematically developed through project -based books. Grammar and writing skills, including spelling, are reinforced through the Language Arts component. Westlake Academy has invested heavily in ensuring that all classrooms are equipped with a wide range of books. Sound literacy skills are essential for reading skills. Children will read in class, small group, and individual activities. We will inaugurate a group of parent volunteers, who together with the teachers in Kindergarten through 2°d grade, will help ensure that each child receives individualized attention in reading. Spanish Starting in Kindergarten, students receive instruction in an interactive, immersion approach to Spanish. Emphasis on grammatical structures, verbal and writing skills, and vocabulary help students develop the tools they need to become effective communicators. Learning an additional language helps students understand other cultures and become more international in their outlook. Mathematics Mathematics is taught using a range of practical mathematical equipment ensuring ample opportunities to develop concrete understanding of key concepts, before moving on to more abstract skills of recording results. Equipment includes rulers, scales, and tape measures, polydron sets for geometrical investigations; pattern blocks and tangrams for investigating shape, pattern, and number; calibrated containers for capacity work, and a wide range of games for encouraging mathematic thinking skills. Science Science includes elements of Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Physics and is taught as a combined Science course from the first grade through the eighth grade. Emphasis is on practical understanding and investigation. All students are encouraged to take an active role in classroom experiments. Wherever possible, we encourage full use of the school grounds and environment so, for example, the outdoor classrooms and playground make an ideal location for weather experiments or investigations into shadows, while gardens are an obvious choice for work on plants and flowers. A wide range of practical Science equipment enables us to do any practical experiments within the classroom. In all cases, special attention is paid to helping students become safe scientists. Children are taught how to handle and care for equipment, as well as each other. 28 In addition to the formal Science curriculum, Westlake Academy promotes a range of environmental awareness and ecology campaigns. School assemblies are also used to help broaden children's understanding of the role of Science in the everyday world. Social Studies This course helps students understand the world in which they live. It involves elements of History and Geography, which help children develop a wider understanding of their local environment, their family and local history, extending to the state of Texas, the United States, and the global community as a whole. Throughout the academy, traditions and customs are fully explored through special projects, displays, visits, and activities. We want to help children develop an international - mindedness promoting awareness and understanding of their culture and the culture of others. Art Our art program encourages appreciation of existing Art forms, as well as developing children's own creative skills with a range of media and techniques. Students explore their ideas in paint, pencil, collage or three-dimensional form. Appreciation of art exhibitions by local and leading world artists also forms an important part of our program. Music Starting in Kindergarten, children are given opportunities to create and appreciate music. Contemporary and classical music will be an integral part of lessons, assemblies, songs in the classrooms, and concerts. Whenever possible, we take advantage of outside professional musicians to provide further variety and stimulus. Instrumental Music23 Because the Academy is committed to the Arts and believes that children should be given opportunities in all different areas to develop their talents, students in Grades 1 through 4 will have strings instruction as part of the regular curriculum. Once a week for an hour, students will receive lessons on the violin, viola, cello, or bass. Strings instruction is known to develop an excellent musical ear, creativity and is directly related to gains in mathematics. Physical Education All students are encouraged to develop physical skills through games and activities, which also help develop a sense of team spirit. Working together with their teammates, in pairs or individually, students are helped to develop the self-discipline needed to follow instructions 23 August 2004 29 and game rules. Students are introduced to specific physical, ball and control skills needed for sports such as hockey, soccer, volleyball, baseball, and basketball. Information Technology In the age of technology, Westlake is committed to ensuring that all students acquire full computer literacy at an early age. Westlake Academy's state-of-the-art technology will be available to all students who will be taught basic skills such as keyboard orientation, basic word processing skills, creative graphic design, desktop publishing options, and computer management skills. Supervised access to the Internet and e-mail will open connections with students around the world. The State of Texas has established an aggressive set of standards for School Technology and Readiness (StaR) and the State Board of Educator Certification Standards technology statements as the combined foundation for the Long Range Technology Plan to be achieved by all Texas Schools by 2010. Westlake Academy opened September 2003 meeting StaR requirements at the Advanced level in virtually every category and Target levels in each of the most significant categories. This is crucial to achieve the broader mission of Westlake Academy. Expansion budgeting and replacement -cycle funding is projected from internal funds to meet or exceed StaR Target levels within the next few years. Westlake Academy shares a campus with the Town of Westlake Municipal Complex currently under construction. Considerable planning and effort by town staff, consultants, construction and architecture professionals has been applied to the technology infrastructure plan for the complex. A state-of-the-art fiber, copper and wireless network- connects etworkconnects all areas of the complex. The Town of Westlake and Westlake Academy have established a preference for technology solutions that are open source and/or based on open standards for compatibility across multiple platforms and vendors. The selection of a specific end user device, such as a computer, involves evaluation of how that device will inter -operate with established systems, and what benefits that specific device may additionally bring to the usage model. AppleiBook, iMac, and eMac computers have been selected to support classroom instruction for the Westlake Academy elementary grades. Windows based computers were considered, but Macintosh computers were selected for a number of reasons, among them their strong support of multi -media applications, general ease of use, support for Cisco's LEAP wireless encryption standard, and a reduced technical support burden. Each Academy classroom teacher will be assigned an iBook laptop. Additionally, each classroom will be equipped with either two iBook laptop computers or two eMac desktop computers and a digital still camera for student use. Three Mobile Labs of iBook laptops are available for entire classroom instruction on an as -needed basis. I The wireless network at Westlake Academy allows access to network resources from any room. Users have access to both black and white and color networked laser printers. Network resources also include centralized file and application services. Students and teachers may also make use of digital video cameras and multimedia production workstations in the library. VCR/overhead projection media carts are available to be shared between classrooms. Telephone service in each classroom and conference area is delivered over a Cisco Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) platform utilizing advanced display phones. Homework Policy2' Homework is a regular part of the academic program. It serves three purposes. • It provides additional drill, practice, and study. • It is a vehicle for teaching and developing personal responsibility. • Homework helps parents know what their child is learning in school. Homework is to be differentiated from regular assigned class work not finished by the students during the day. It may be required four days per week, i.e., Monday through Thursday. Homework is not normally assigned over weekends and holidays, although major assignments such as reports may have to be completed over weekends and holidays. Students who have an excused absence may request and receive homework assignments during their absences. Students, who are absent with a medically documented illness, requiring long or frequent periods of absenteeism, may request and receive assignments and directions for at -home -work as medically required. Students are responsible for making up all work missed during an absence. One day to make up work will be given for each day of absence during the assignment. If the work is not made up during the allotted time, a grade of 0% will be recorded for the assignment. Homework assigned before an absence is due as scheduled. Parents are encouraged to support the school's instruction program by providing the student an appropriate time and place in which to complete homework. Doing so will help the student take responsibility for his or her own learning.'' HOUSE SYSTEM Westlake Academy has chosen to implement a House system with each student and faculty member assigned to a House named after people who represent qualities important to and inherent in our Mission Statement. The House system encourages school and team spirit, integration, responsibility .and a sense of community. Membership in a House is life-long; each student should feel responsible for the well being of the members and be proud to ?q September 2005 a September 2005 31 work for the betterment of the House. Houses will work together and compete in academic, sporting and service projects and events. Westlake Academy Houses: Keller: In 1882, at the age of two, Helen Keller became deaf and blind. Nevertheless, she learned to read, write and speak; attended the most prestigious women's university in the USA and became a spokeswoman for all people with disabilities. She represents determination, perseverance and passion. The color for Keller House is burgundy, the color of the heart. Thoreau: Henry David Thoreau was a writer, thinker and naturalist. He was one of the country's first environmentalists. He represents a love of nature, independent thinking and standing up for one's convictions. Khaki — the color of the earth - is the color of Thoreau House. Wheatley: Sold into slavery at the age of seven, Phillis Wheatley nonetheless learned to read and write in English, Greek and Latin and published her first poem at the age of 13. She was the United States' first African-American poet. She represents our search for spirituality and cultural diversity. Ethereal sky blue is the color of Wheatley House. Whitman: Father of free (unrhymed) verse, Walt Whitman was truly an innovator. His poetry exalts the democratic spirit and a love of country. Navy blue — the color of the wide expanse of ocean — is Whitman House's color. EXTRA -CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES26 Westlake Academy believes that its students should strive to be well-balanced. We aim to offer a wide curriculum that offers opportunities for all students to develop their talents. We also strive to offer a wide array of clubs, teams, sporting events and lessons within our extra- curricular program. There are over 20 different extra -curricular activities, ranging from golf to garden club; soccer to debate; ballet, chess and fencing. Each activity is carefully selected according to student interests and the availability of securing top instructors and sponsors. School of Music: Special note should be made of the School of Music. Lessons on violin, viola, cello and bass are available to students, parents, siblings, friends and community members. The School of Music is under the auspices of Fossil Creek Strings and can be contacted directly to arrange participation. 26 September 2005 32 Athletic Program27 Philosophy: Participation in team sports emphasizes the learning of skills and sportsmanship, providing for the development of character, self-respect, physical dexterity and personal discipline. At the same time it fosters the concepts of teamwork, fair play and self -reflection. Westlake Academy will endeavor to offer students a wide variety of sports, depending on student interest and participation. Eligibility The Academy aims to offer intramural and interschool team sports at Elementary, Middle and High School levels. Elementary Middle High School Age 8-12 12-14 14-18 Grade 3-6 7-8 9-12 A player may participate at a higher level than his/her age but no player will be allowed to play below his or her age or grade level. All players must maintain a `C' (Elementary) or `4' (= and High School) average in all subjects to remain eligible for participation. Should a player's average fall below the expected average in one subject, the player will be required to show within a period of two weeks — through work, homework, exams and/or projects — significant improvement. t Failing to demonstrate improvement may result in game suspension or expulsion from the team. Conduct: Westlake Academy expects model conduct from all members of the school community. All team members must meet the expected level of respect for authority and peers, adhering to all rules and regulations of the game as well as expectations for good sportsmanship. No team member is permitted to make derogatory or humiliating comments to anyone, on or off the sports field. Violations of the rules of good conduct may result in suspension or expulsion from the team. The above expectations also apply to spectators of the sport. Violations may result in a warning, suspension or expulsion from audience attendance. All parents/guardians of participants in any sport will be required to sign the Medical Consent and Release of Liability before the student may be registered. 27 September 2005 33 Transportation and Uniform: Parents are responsible for supplying their player's uniform for each sport. Transportation to and from Away games will be provided by parents, either individually or in car pools. PARENT INVOLVEMENT House of Commons: The purpose of The House of Commons (Parent-Teacher Organization) is to enhance the education of our children by: • Promoting the Learner Profile. • Promoting high academic standards. • Promoting the philosophy, direction, and image of Westlake Academy. • Increasing and facilitating communication between home and school. • Providing a forum for discussion for any school related issues. • Maintaining a network for parental participation. • Creating and maintaining a sense of community Volunteers' Volunteers form an essential part of the school program. All volunteers must pass a background check before volunteering in any capacity. Background checks are conducted by the Town of Westlake and require a copy of the driver's license and the social security number. Request forms are available in the school office. `l. All parents are encouraged to become a volunteer at Westlake Academy. Participation is wide and varied, including: • Listening to individuals or small groups of students as they read. • Helping students work through math problems. • Monitoring students on the playground and/or in the cafeteria. • Preparing special materials for students. • Chaperoning field trips. • Acting as a guest speaker. • Participating in extra -curricular events (i.e., coaching, enrichment classes) Classroom volunteers will be under the guidance of the teacher. No volunteers or visitors will be allowed in the classroom unless the teacher has specifically requested such help. Even if a permanent badge has been issued, all volunteers must also sign in at the school office. 28 September 2005 34 Visitors Immediately upon arriving on campus, all guests must sign in at the school office and receive a Visitor Badge. There can be no exceptions! This policy helps ensure knowledge of who is on campus at all times. Parents and other guests who enter the campus without signing in are inviting others to do the same, including those who might not have the children's best interests in mind. STUDENT RECORDS Annual Disclosure Access to educational records is governed by federal law (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act). Parents and students 18 years of age or older, have the following rights in connection with educational records: 1. To inspect and review the student's educational records. 2. To request amendment of the student's educational records, ensure that the records are not inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of student rights, including the right to a hearing, if necessary. 3. To consent to disclose personally identifiable information contained in the student's educational records. Information deemed "directory information" may be disclosed without consent unless the parent, guardian, or eligible student directs in writing that this information not be made public without prior consent. Disclosure may also be made without consent in certain circumstances allowed by FERPA. 4. To file complaints with the U.S. Department of Education. Non-custodial and divorced parents have equal rights relating to student records unless the school has been provided a court order to the contrary. Statement of Intent to Comply Westlake Academy affirms its intent to comply with all Federal and State laws relating to the prevention of discrimination based upon race, color, creed, national origin, age, sex, or handicap. This compliance is to include, but not be limited to, the regulations of the Title IX Act, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs or activities which receive Federal funds, extending to employment in and admission to such programs and activities; and will comply with the Education of all Handicapped Children Act, Public Law 94-142, the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. This compliance also includes, but is not limited to the regulations of the Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, age, sex, or handicap. 35 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Lunches Westlake Academy offers a catered school lunch program. Students may bring their own lunches to school, or purchase a hot lunch. Menus will be provided monthly. Permission Slips Students must have a signed permission slip for special activities, such as field trips. The permission form will be furnished by the school and must be signed by the parent or guardian and returned to the school office. Students will be allowed to participate in these special activities only when written permission is given and returned to school with a parent/guardian signature. Lost and Found On occasion a misplaced item is found. The school has designated a collection box for such lost items at the school office. Although Westlake Academy is not responsible for lost items, we will make every effort to help locate the items reported missing. To assure that lost items are returned promptly, students and/or parents should label ALL clothing and personal items with the student's name. Telephone Teachers will not be called out of classes during school hours to answer telephone calls. School officials will forward messages to teacher voice mailboxes. Teachers are encouraged to return calls the same day. Students may not receive or make telephone calls unless permission has been granted by the school office 29 Class Celebrations Parents help plan parties for students on scheduled holidays or specific events in pre- arrangement with the teachers and school staff. Birthday parties are not permitted at school. If students wish to pass out invitations to private parties while at school, they may do so only if the entire class receives an invitation. 29 September 2005 MA AGREEMENT OF SUPPORT Parent /Guardian As a parent / guardian of a child attending Westlake Academy, I have read and agree to comply with and lend support to the published rules and procedures outlined in the Parent/Student Handbook. I recognize that Westlake Academy is an Open Enrollment public Charter School of choice and I have voluntarily chosen to enroll. I understand that failure to comply with the rules and procedures outlined in the Parent/Student Handbook may jeopardize my student's eligibility to attend Westlake Academy. (Student Name) In return for supporting the school policies and procedures, I expect the faculty and staff of Westlake Academy to provide my child with the type of education stated and implied in the Parent / Student Handbook. Name of Parent / Guardian Relationship to Student Signature of Parent / Guardian Date Student I am aware that Westlake Academy is a school of choice. After talking with my parents/guardians, I have chosen to attend Westlake Academy. As a student at Westlake Academy, I agree to accept responsibility for following the policies and procedures as 'described in the Parent/Student Handbook. Student's Signature: Date 37 Westlake Academy 41n E A C A D E M 'Y The Westlake Academy is an open enrollment Charter School offering a rigorous international curriculum. The responsibility of educational development will be shared among teachers, parents, community and students. We will focus on each student's needs to help him or her develop a thirst for knowledge. We will encourage good citizenship and maximize each student's individual potential. The Westlake Academy will prepare students for leadership roles in a rapidly changing global environment. Parents and Students should read these OFFICIAL NOTICES to ensure that they have the latest information available... Learn more about upcoming Dress Uniform Days, Holidays and other IMPORTANT EVENTS. Headlines Westlake Academy Ranked Exemplary State Accountability Ratings were released September 30, 2004. Westlake Academy shares the Exemplary rating with the top 3% of charter schools and top 6.6% of all Texas school campuses... ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & conditions h"://www.westlakeacademv.or2/cms/index.html?-o=t Page 1 of 1 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy:: Overview Overview �J = _y4y .� i - Westlake Academy The Westlake Academy is an Open Enrollment Charter School which will open September 1, 2003 in Westlake, Texas. Westlake Academy will distinguish itself among neighboring educational offerings with a particular focus on international -style academics. The programs of the International Baccalaureate Organization (PYP, MYP, DP) have been selected as the educational model. Educational technology will be pervasive and will infuse the classroom curriculum. An environment rich with heritage, the Westlake Academy mission is to provide educational opportunities to each child in keeping with his or her individual needs. Enrollment: e The primary geographic service area for Westlake Academy is the town limits of Westlake; Students from other locations may be considered if seats are available. • The current structure for teacher student ratio is 1:15 with a targeted class size of 16 students. • 2004-2005 enrollment is limited to 265 students: approximately 32 students per grade, grades K-7. • Westlake Academy will add an additional grade level each year, and will eventually increase students to approximately 60 per grade level, grades K-12. Pagel of 2 httD://www.westlakeacademv nrQ/cmc/nvPn,;P.x, nVPYt7lP[v bf, v?_—+ , 1 11 /'InnnA _ 4 w '-ter �J = _y4y .� i - Westlake Academy The Westlake Academy is an Open Enrollment Charter School which will open September 1, 2003 in Westlake, Texas. Westlake Academy will distinguish itself among neighboring educational offerings with a particular focus on international -style academics. The programs of the International Baccalaureate Organization (PYP, MYP, DP) have been selected as the educational model. Educational technology will be pervasive and will infuse the classroom curriculum. An environment rich with heritage, the Westlake Academy mission is to provide educational opportunities to each child in keeping with his or her individual needs. Enrollment: e The primary geographic service area for Westlake Academy is the town limits of Westlake; Students from other locations may be considered if seats are available. • The current structure for teacher student ratio is 1:15 with a targeted class size of 16 students. • 2004-2005 enrollment is limited to 265 students: approximately 32 students per grade, grades K-7. • Westlake Academy will add an additional grade level each year, and will eventually increase students to approximately 60 per grade level, grades K-12. Pagel of 2 httD://www.westlakeacademv nrQ/cmc/nvPn,;P.x, nVPYt7lP[v bf, v?_—+ , 1 11 /'InnnA Westlake Academy: : a u(� si fu, gg WE A C D E M Y Mission Statement The Westlake Academy will provide a rigorous curriculum that is international in scope with high expectations by sharing the responsibility of educational development between teachers, parents, community and students. This will be achieved by providing an innovative approach to education that focuses on the needs of each student to develop a thirst for knowledge, produce positive esteem, encourage good citizenship and maximize individual potential. This will prepare students to be active participants and agents of change in a rapidly changing environment that is global in scope. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions http://www.westlakeacademy.org/cms/mission.html?p--t Page 1 of 1 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy: : xf �i E KE A C A D E M Y The Charter School Vision Fundamental to the success of any community are its schools. Westlake is located partially within three separate school districts, Keller ISD, Northwest ISD and Carroll ISD. Westlake is on the outer edges of each district and the residential build out of Westlake likely will never merit the construction of a school in the Town by any of the three ISD's. Thus, the Town applied for and became the first municipality ever to receive a Charter from the State of Texas to construct and operate a Charter School - The Westlake Academy. It is the intent of the Board to offer the citizens of Westlake an education alternative to traditional public school curriculum and programming. The Westlake Academy will establish standards of performance through development of a rigorous curriculum, challenging extracurricular activities, an appreciation for the community and heritage of the town of Westlake and an applied understanding of morality, discipline, fair play, teamwork and respect. Class sizes are designed to accommodate no more than 15 students per teacher and will be strictly limited. The Westlake Academy first and foremost is a place of learning. Not only academic learning, but also learning to contribute to the local, national and international community. The integration of community, tradition, pride and loyalty into the educational environment is designed to foster the skills and confidence necessary to succeed at any level desired and is prepared for the most prestigious and demanding of universities at home or abroad. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Texas Charter Schools TEA Westlake Academy is a Texas Open Enrollment Charter School. General information regarding State of Texas Charter Schools is available at the TEA website. Learn more.... httnJ/www.westlakeacaciemv_org/cros/overview charter_html?n=t Page 1 of 1 11/16/9004 Westlake Academy: : �F t. xY �. "ay EKE A C A D E M Y The Tillage Blacksmith by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Under a spreading chestnut -tree The village smithy stands; The smith, a mighty man is he, With large and sinewy hands; And the muscles of his brawny arms Are strong as iron bands. His hair is crisp, and black, and long, His face is like the tan; His brow is wet with honest sweat, He earns whate'er he can, And looks the whole world in the face, For he owes not any man. Week in, week out, from morn till night, You can hear his bellows blow; You can hear him swing his heavy sledge, With measured beat and slow, Like a sexton ringing the village bell, When the evening sun is low. And children coming home from school Look in at the open door; They love to see the flaming forge, And hear the bellows roar, And catch the burning sparks that fly Like chaff from a threshing -floor. He goes on Sunday to the church, And sits among his boys; He hears the parson pray and preach, He hears his daughter's voice, Singing in the village choir, And it makes his heart rejoice. It sounds to him like her mother's voice, Singing in Paradise! He needs must think of her once more, How in the grave she lies; The "Village Blacksmith" endeared America to the strong character, discipline and morals of the humble blacksmith. From these traditional pillars of American heritage, the Town of Westlake has long dreamed of establishing a locally controlled, quality - based international school with special emphasis on language, the arts, math and science. http://www.westlakeacademv.orL/cros/thevillagehlacksmitb _btml?n=t Page 1 of 2 1 111 f,/7110A Westlake Academy: : And with his haul, rough hand he wipes A tear out of his eyes. Toiling,--rejoicing,—sorrowing, Onward through life he goes; Each morning sees some task begin, Each evening sees it close Something attempted, something done, Has earned a night's repose. Thanks, thanks to thee, my worthy friend, For the lesson thou hast taught! Thus at the flaming forge of life Our fortunes must be wrought; Thus on its sounding anvil shaped Each burning deed and thought. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy 1 Terms & Conditions Page 2 of 2 httn _//www.westlakeacaclemv_ erg/cmc/thevi l l a o ehl acksm ith htm l9n=t 11 A tQN)(M Westlake Academy: : a� W �t t A C A D E M Y The Municipal Complex The Academy will be an integral part of a comprehensive Westlake Municipal Complex. The complex includes, from the start, the town hall, a fully functional recreation center/gymnasium, library, cafeteria, playground, ball fields, outdoor classrooms, science lab, a music/performance hall, and continuing education facilities. A high degree of flexibility has been built into each building to allow for technological changes and future expansion. By clustering the buildings together around a new village Green, the town expects to realize significant savings in both construction and operating costs through the sharing of facilities, staff and services. __--I ", k Thoughtful consideration has been given to separate ingress and egress for Municipal and Academy purposes and to security to protect staff, students and visitors to the Complex. Further, the concentration of the public facilities of this relaitively young town creates an opportunity to make a strong statement about the people who live here and to clearly express their values. The Site Plan The building layout has been shaped by the site. To The Site Plan minimize site grading and protect the trees, the (Click for Interactive Map) buildings follow the contours of the hillside. In addition, each classroom group has its own outdoor learning area. The campus has playgrounds and children's gardens. Each wing of the Academy will house a different age group in its own school -within -a -school, and they all share a central library as well as the arts, science and music rooms and the gymnasium at the Recreation Center. The Materials The construction includes concrete tile roofs, stone and wood exteriors exposed timbers inside and out, hardwood floors in key areas, and iron accents. The Location The Complex is strategically located near the center of Westlake, Texas. The facility is located atop one of most picturesque hills in Tarrant County overlooking the Town of Westlake and surrounding areas. The site was previously ranch land, and great care was taken to preserve the original site topography and trees. Page 1 of 2 lift"•//urimir 1 1 /1 A/700d Westlake Academy: : The Architects Hart Howerton is a firm of ninety land planners, architects, landscape architects and interior designers, with offices in San Francisco, New York and the Vail Valley. The mainstream of their international practice is master planning new communities and designing the landmark buildings and landscapes that make them succeed. HART HOWERTON Learn more about the firm.... Clients are many of the world's most respected landowners, developers, institutions and families. Projects, typically, have been in "special situations," where sensitive historic or natural environments or a new market opportunity, have required an innovative approach. In addition, through a concept the firm calls "centers of excellence" -small teams of highly trained professionals- Hart Howerton has been able to develop a diversified practice. Hart/Howerton evolved out of the San Francisco/New York firm, Robert Lamb Hart, Planners and Architects, and the group of exceptional professionals who are now continuing to develop their distinctive philosophy. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions httr�•/%csn:nv <vact�wuonnr�cmv r�rn/nmc/nrn�itartc �tm�7r.—t Page 1 of 1 1 1 n r,i)nnd Westlake Academy: : t � E A C A D E Rat Y Overview The Westlake Academy curriculum will be unique in many ways. Since we are a public school, operating under the rules of the Texas Education Agency, the entire curriculum will meet State requirements by providing the essential basic education components enumerated in "Texas - Essential Knowledge and Skills." While the Academy is required to administer state required testing such as the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills Texas Essential (TAKS), it is not the mission of the Academy to "teach the test." Knowledge and Skills Knowledge As stipulated in the Texas The Westlake Academy curriculum and teaching will allow Education Code, school students to master the critical thinking and crucial elements the districts are required to provide test seeks to assess without limiting the curriculum to only these instruction in essential elements. The Westlake Academy curriculum, while rigorous, knowledge and skills at the will be flexible and customized to accommodate different appropriate grade levels. students' needs. Learn more... 02004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 1 of 1 httn-//www_wectlakeacademv_orQ/cmc/cnrricnhtm overview html?n=t 11 A IQ?()nd Westlake Academy :: Westlake Curriculum Y WE E A C A D E M Y Westlake Academy Curriculum Westlake Academy is responsible for teaching the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) as contained in 19 TAC Chapters 110-128 and must participate in the state-wide assessment program, Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS), to ensure accountability for student achievement. Much of our teaching is done through units of inquiry. Most projects are transdisciplinary. A unit on water may include elements of Language Science, Mathematics, and Art. Units are carefully planned to draw on children's interests. When children are interested, they participate more actively and learn more. Children will be encouraged to bring information or resources from home to support the work they are doing in the classroom. Parents will be kept informed of each major topic. Where possible, cross -curricular links are made to aid children's understanding of the connections between themes. Some subjects, like Mathematics, Language, and Science often need to be taught as individual subjects. In these cases, children will be taught a prepared unit of work such as "Fractions" independently of the current classroom theme. All classrooms are equipped with a range of books and didactic materials. Science and Mathematics materials help to reinforce concrete understanding of concepts through manipulative investigation of properties. Practical activity underpins theoretical understanding. English English is taught through carefully planned Language Arts and Literature lessons, which combine an understanding of how the English language works within a literary framework. It is further enriched by the wider curriculum taught through the medium of English. Lessons in Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies not only develop specific skills in these subjects, but also provide authentic language experiences, which encourage students to develop a wide and meaningful vocabulary. Language Arts focuses on developing literacy skills through Reading, Speaking, Listening, Thinking, and Writing. Promoting a love of books is a driving force. From the First Grade, children are exposed to a wide range of authors and literary genres, including stories, songs, and poems. Non-fiction research skills are systematically developed through project -based books. Grammar and writing skills, including spelling, are reinforced through the Language Arts component. Westlake Academy has invested heavily in ensuring that all classrooms are equipped with a wide range of books. Sound literacy skills are essential for reading skills. Children will read in class, small group, and individual activities. We will inaugurate a group of parent volunteers, who together with the teachers, will help ensure that each child receives individualized attention. Pagel of 3 httn-//www_westlakeacademv_nr¢/cros/westlake cnrricn1nm_html9n=t 11/1619004 Westlake Academy :: Westlake Curriculum Mathematics Mathematics is taught using a range of practical mathematical equipment ensuring ample opportunities to develop concrete understanding of key concepts, before moving on to more abstract skills of recording results. Equipment includes rulers, scales, and tape measures, polydron sets for geometrical investigations; pattern blocks and tangrams for investigating shape, pattern, and number; calibrated containers for capacity work, and a wide range of games for encouraging mathematic thinking skills. Science Science includes elements of Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Physics and is taught as a combined Science course from the First Grade. Emphasis is on practical understanding and investigation. All students are encouraged to take an active role in classroom experiments. Wherever possible, we encourage full use of the school grounds and environment so, for example, the outdoor classrooms and playground make an ideal location for weather experiments or investigations into shadows, while gardens are an obvious choice for work on plants and flowers. A wide range of practical Science equipment enables us to do any practical experiments within the classroom. In all cases, special attention is paid to helping students become safe scientists. Children are taught how to handle and care for equipment, as well as each other. In addition to the formal Science curriculum, Westlake Academy promotes a range of environmental awareness and ecology campaigns. School assemblies are also used to help broaden children's understanding of the role of Science in the everyday world. Social Studies This course helps students understand the world in which they live. It involves elements of History and Geography, which help children develop a wider understanding of their local environment, their family and local history, extending to the state of Texas, the United States, and the global community as a whole. Throughout the academy, traditions and customs are fully explored through special projects, displays, visits, and activities. We want to help children develop an international - mindedness promoting awareness and understanding of their culture and the culture of others. Art Our art program encourages appreciation of existing Art forms, as well as developing children's own creative skills with a range of media and techniques. Students explore their ideas in paint, pencil, collage or three-dimensional form. Appreciation of art exhibitions by local and leading world artists also forms an important part of our program. Spanish Starting in Kindergarten, students receive instruction in an interactive, immersion approach to Spanish. Emphasis on grammatical structures, verbal and writing skills, and vocabulary help students develop the tools they need to become effective communicators. Learning an additional language helps students understand other cultures and become more international in their outlook. Music Starting in First Grade children are given opportunities to create and appreciate music. Contemporary and classical music will be an integral part of lessons, assemblies, songs in the classrooms, and concerts. Whenever possible, we take advantage of outside professional musicians to provide further variety and stimulus. Physical Education Page 2 of 3 iittn•//xxnxrxxr nrcr/rmclxvactlatra rnrr;riitnm 1itm19n—t 1 1 11 ti/7Md Westlake Academy:: Westlake Curriculum All students are encouraged to develop physical skills through games and activities, which also help develop a sense of team spirit. Working together with their teammates, in pairs or individually, students are helped to develop the self-discipline needed to follow instructions and game rules. Students are introduced to specific physical, ball and control skills needed for sports such as hockey, soccer, volleyball, baseball, and basketball. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 3 of 3 htti)://www.westlakeacademv.org-/cros/Westlake curriculum.html?n=t 11/16/9.004 Westlake Academy :: Technology E KE A C A D E hf Y Technology In the age of technology, Westlake is committed to ensuring that all students acquire full computer literacy at an early age. Westlake Academy's state-of-the-art technology is available to all students who will be taught basic skills such as keyboard orientation, basic word processing skills, creative graphic design, desktop publishing options, and computer management skills. Supervised access to the Internet and e-mail will open connections with students around the world. The State of Texas has established an aggressive set of standards for School Technology and Readiness (StaR) and the State Board of Educator Certification Standards technology statements as the combined foundation for the Long Range Technology Plan to be achieved by all Texas Schools by 2010. Westlake Academy opened September 2003 meeting StaR requirements at the Advanced level in virtually every category and Target levels in each of the most significant categories. Expansion budgeting and replacement -cycle funding is projected from internal funds to meet or exceed StaR Target levels within the next few years. Westlake Academy shares a campus with the Town of Westlake Municipal Complex. Considerable planning and effort by town staff, consultants, construction and architecture professionals has been applied to the technology infrastructure plan for the complex. A state-of-the-art fiber, copper and wireless network connects all areas of the complex. The Town of Westlake and Westlake Academy have established a preference for technology solutions that are open source and/or based on open standards for compatibility across multiple platforms and vendors. The selection of a specific end user device, such as a computer, involves evaluation of how that device will inter -operate with established systems, and what benefits that specific device may additionally bring to the usage model. AppleiBook, iMac, and eMac computers have been selected to support classroom instruction for the Westlake Academy elementary grades. Windows based computers were considered, but Macintosh computers were selected for a number of reasons, among them their strong support of multi -media applications, general ease of use, support for Cisco LEAP wireless encryption standard, and a reduced ongoing technical support burden. Each Academy classroom teacher is assigned an iBook laptop. Additionally, each classroom is equipped with either two iBook laptop computers or two eMac desktop computers and a digital still camera for student use. A'Mobile Lab' of iBook laptops is available for entire classroom instruction on an as -needed basis. The wireless network at Westlake Academy allows access to select network resources from any room. Users have access to both black -and -white and color networked laser printers. Network resources also include centralized file and application services. Students and teachers may also make use of digital video cameras and multimedia production httn://www.westlakeacademv.org/cms/technnlop,v-btml?n--t Page 1 of 2 11 /1 F/?M4 Westlake Academy:: Technology Page 2 of 2 workstations in the library. VCR/overhead projection media carts are available to be shared between classrooms. Telephone service in each classroom and conference area is delivered over a Cisco Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) platform utilizing advanced display phones. 02004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions htht�•%i�:nxnx� wact��tra�r�riamv nr(t�rme%an�nn�nnv html9r�-4 � � ii �»nnn Westlake Academy :: The Student Profile W KE A C A D E M Y The Student Profile Westlake Academy will follow the tenants of the International Baccalaureate Organization?s Primary Years Program as it pursues certification from the organization. The PYP defines the characteristics of students who are aware of and sensitive to the experiences of others. These create a profile of the PYP student, which helps teachers and students to establish goals, plan units of inquiry, and assess performance: • Inquirers. Their natural curiosity has been nurtured. They have acquired the skills necessary to conduct purposeful, constructive research. They actively enjoy learning and their love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives. • Thinkers. They exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to make sound decisions and to solve complex problems. • Communicators. They receive and express ideas and information confidently in more than one language, including the language of mathematical symbols. • Risk Takers. They approach unfamiliar situations without anxiety and have the confidence and independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are courageous and articulate in defending those things in which they believe. • Knowledgeable. They have spent time in school exploring themes which have global relevance and importance. In doing so, they have acquired a critical mass of significant knowledge. • Principled. They have a sound grasp of the principles of moral reasoning. They have integrity, honesty and a sense of fairness and justice. • Caring. They show sensitivity towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a sense of personal commitment to action and service. • Open-minded. They respect the views, values and traditions of other individuals and cultures, and they are accustomed to seeking and considering a range of points of view. • Well-balanced. They understand the importance of physical and mental balance and personal well-being. • Reflective. They give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and analyze their personal strengths and weaknesses in a constructive manner. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy 1 Terms & Conditions Page 1 of 1 'ktf"-/AznznzT —1-1,4-A ------- rl- 1,+-19---+ 1 1 /1 K11)AAA Westlake Academy: : t V..;;., 0 U r R Rk WE KE A C A D E M Y The International Baccalaureate Programs Westlake Academy places a high value on a leaning environment where students are prepared to live, work and contribute to not only their local community, but the world at large. The educational models of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) have•been selected as a framework for instruction. The International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) is a nonprofit educational foundation with its headquarters in Switzerland; it was created in 1968. It provides three related programs to 1,395 authorized schools in 114 countries (31 January 2003): its flagship pre -university IB Diploma Program; the Middle Years Program, created in 1992 for students aged 11-16 and the recently created Primary Years Program (1997) a Program for children aged 3-12. Beyond intellectual rigor and high academic standards, strong emphasis is placed on development of character, community involvement and interpersonal skills. It is the goal of the International Baccalaureate program that students will become critical and compassionate thinkers, lifelong learners, informed participants in local and world affairs and conscious of the shared humanity that binds all people together while respecting the variety of cultures and attitudes that makes for the richness of life. The International Baccalaureate Programs More information about the IBO programs may be found at the organization's website (www.ibo.org), or by following the links below: The Diploma Program The Middle Years Program The Primary Years Program It is the intent of The Westlake Academy to pursue IBO certification for all grades: Primary Years (K-5), Middle Years (6-10) and Diploma (11-12). Westlake Academy will be one of few public schools in the country to offer all three IBO certifications on one campus. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions httn://www_west]akeacademv_org/cros/learning ih_htm19n=t Page 1 of 1 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy :: Homework Policy Ly.£ -.,e f xr a fix`, KE A C A D E M Y Homework Policy Homework is a regular part of the academic program. It serves three purposes: • It provides additional drill, practice, and study. • It is a vehicle for teaching and developing personal responsibility. • Homework helps parents know what their child is learning in school. Homework is to be differentiated from regular assigned class work not finished by the students during the day. It may be required four days per week, i.e., Monday through Thursday. Homework is not normally assigned over weekends and holidays, although major assignments such as reports may have to be completed over weekends and holidays. Students who have an excused absence may request and receive homework assignments during their absences. Students, who are absent with a medically documented illness, requiring long or frequent periods of absenteeism, may request and receive assignments and directions for at- home -work as medically required. Students are responsible for making up all work missed during an absence. One day to make up work will be given for each day of absence during the assignment. If the work is not made up during the allotted time, a grade of 0% will be recorded for the assignment. Homework assigned before an absence is due as scheduled. Although parents are not required to help their children complete homework assignments, they are encouraged to support the school?s instruction program by providing the student an appropriate time and place in which to complete homework. Doing so will help the student can take responsibility for his or her own learning. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 1 of 1 httn://www.westiakeacademv_era/cros/homework nnlicv_html?n=t 11 ii 61?n0a Westlake Academy :: Extracurricular Activities E w A C A D E M Y The Westlake Academy - Extracurricular Activities In addition to an outstanding academic curriculum, the Westlake Academy will host many extracurricular activity options for students. The facilities include a full size gymnasium that will accommodate indoor team sports and activities such as basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, wrestling and more. Outdoors, the facility contains playgrounds, a basketball court and a fully maintained multipurpose playing field to accommodate soccer, baseball, softball, lacrosse and more. Sorry, not football! As the Academy grows, additional sports and activities will be developed. The Westlake Academy places great importance on the arts. The state-of-the-art facilities include a performance -quality music room to accommodate band, choir, orchestra, drama and dance, as well as fully equipped art and science labs. Foreign language teaching begins early and is a core component of the Academy curriculum. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 1 of 1 1'++_-//..n...a..:.,..+l.,lr.,..,...,7,,......,,...,r/,,......../i,.,.......«,_ .._.-..«...._._t__ 1--10- 1 1 11 /'/nnne Westlake Academy:: Overview WE, KE A C A D E 141 Y Overview Welcome all 7th Grade Parents! This is the first year Westlake Academy has implemented a Middle Years Program. The curriculum the school is implementing is the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program. Westlake Academy is in its trial year and intends to begin the authorization process during the next school year. The program is one that offers a truly global and holistic approach in its delivery with a highly dedicated, cohesive and qualified teaching staff. Westlake Academy's goal is to add an additional grade for each year of the program (Grades 7, 8, 9 & 10) and to have the students prepared for the International Baccalaureate Diploma program (Grades 11 & 12). The International Baccalaureate is an organization that has grown in stature since its introduction over five decades ago. The IB Diploma is the most prestigious high school diploma in the world. It - is the only diploma recognized internationally. More than 400 colleges and universities in the United States provide admission, scholarships and advanced placement opportunities for IB students. Although there are certain similarities with the AP program, the IB Diploma offers a more rounded program of studies. The Middle Years staff at Westlake Academy has great confidence in the students, the facilities, the program and the support from parents and the administration, in order to implement the IB Middle Years Program successfully over the course of the next four years. 02004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 1 of 1 httn://www.westlakeacademv.org/cros/Middle Years overview.html?n=t 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy : : WE KE A C A 1'e E M Y Middle Years Program at Westlake Academy The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program (IB MYP) can be run as a five-year or a four-year course designed to meet the educational requirements as well as the students' individual needs in an international environment. The program is designed for students aged between 11-12 and 16 years (6th — 7th to 10th grade). The flexibility of the program encourages a healthy and invigorating atmosphere for students. The educational aim of Westlake Academy is to awaken the intelligence of the students and teach them to relate the content of the classroom to the realities of the world outside. By emphasizing the dynamic combination of knowledge, skills, experience and critical thinking, we hope to promote academic achievement, coupled with active and responsible citizenship. The students' subject matter will include English, a foreign language (this will be Spanish at Westlake Academy), Science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics), Arts (Music, Art & Design, Drama & Communication), Mathematics, Technology (Information Technology at Westlake Academy), Social Studies (History and Geography) and Physical Education. The Middle Years Program will incorporate into these subjects what is known as Areas of Interaction: • Approaches to Learning is implemented into every subject. This area is concerned with the acquisition of study skills and the fostering of the learning process. This includes the organization of work, handing work in on time, presentation, ability to discuss, ability to prove results, ability to communicate in all forms (this could take the form of debates, presentations, interviews etc.) and the ability to work as a team as well as individually. • Community Service encourages the student to look at "we" instead of "I". Possible activities that are planned range from the running of lunch/after school clubs for PYP students at the Academy to the helping of the "Meals on Wheels" program. Students have already expressed an interest in working with the elderly and disabled and a range of charities. The work is on a voluntary basis and is normally completed outside of the classroom. Each student is expected to complete about 40 hours of community service every year. Health and Social Education is concerned with mental and physical health. This is another area that is implemented into most subjects. Some topics that fall under this category include abuse of the body, racial issues, class differences, socialization, human rights and the media. 0 Environment is the area concerned with the interdependence of humans and nature and with sustainable development. The four main subjects focusing on this area are Technology, History, Science and Geography. Page 1 of 2 httn://www.westlakeacademv.ora/ems/mvnCuniculum.html?n=t 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy : : • Homo Faber concerns the products of the creative and inventive genius of humans and their impact on society and the human mind. The objective is to analyze the impact of the individual, be it a positive or negative one. The Areas of Interaction are not considered extra subjects. They are incorporated into the teaching of the various subjects, and students are encouraged to explore the relationships. Teachers incorporate these Areas into their subjects through a carefully devised planner that is compiled at the start of each school year. The MYP is specifically designed to break down strict subject barriers and develop strong cross -curricular links. This is something that the staff has been working together to develop. Those students coming from outside of the IB system will experience a very different grading system. The IBO has given a structured number system (which is the same for the IB Diploma course) from 1 (the lowest) to 7 (the highest). Students are given these grades on their report cards and on their end of year certificate. In addition to this however, students will also receive a percentage grade. This is to cater to the needs of the Texan education laws and requirements. Assessment in the MYP is continuous. Teachers set their own end of term and year exams and they determine how much weight is given to the students grade (examples of this have been included for the core subjects). In the final year of the course (Grade 10) students are expected to complete their Personal Project. This is a large assignment and students are given about seven months to complete it. At the end of the 10th Grade students will be issued with a Certificate of Achievement, documenting their performance over the four-year program. We have three more years before we have to worry about this! ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 2 of 2 httn://www.westlakeacademv.ora/cros/mvnCurriculum.html?n=t 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy:: Community Service R W E E A C A D E M Y 7th Grade Community Service Projects The 7th Grade students at Westlake Academy, are required to complete a number of hours of community service. This is an aspect of the Middle Years Progam that runs throughout the years. The majority of the students have already completed a number of hours. Some of these activities completed so far are described below: Half of the Grade took part in the Arbor Day festivities in October. They spent the whole day helping out with the running of kids activities, serving in the Beverage Booth, assisting with the food court and the pony rides. Their attitude and contribution was excellent and the day could not have worked as smoothly as it did, without their great help. A small group of students are planning to run a Christmas celebration for the kids of the school. They have been worked diligently, meeting with Westlake Town members, preparing to lay on a Christmas extravaganza for the younger kids of the school. We have also had students participating in activities in their local community. Many are engaged in church activities every week, while others are helping the elderly in their respective communities. We have also just started a mentoring system in the school. This is the Brainchild of Mrs. Cosby. Each 7th Grade student has been assigned to a class in K-6. They will go into those classes every Friday for 45 minutes and assist the classroom teachers. This is a program that has been enthusiastically received by students and teachers alike. Through this program students will build greater relationships with other members of the school, creating and setting an excellent example. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 1 of 1 httD://www.westlakeacademv.orv/cros/Community Service.html?n=t 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy:: Humanities {.CSE �:J IEC :L!' ' E KE A C A D E M Y Humanities Page 7th Grade Humanities Course Description - The Humanities programme implemented at Westlake Academy is one that encompasses a truly global study. Humanities is predominantly made up of the two fields of History and Geography (these subjects become more distinct in the latter years of the MYP). In addition to this, the fields of economics and politics are also covered. In Grade 7 students focus on the two geographical areas of Africa& Europe. Students begin by looking at the demography of the region, comparing it to their own. From there they will trace the histories of the regions from early times to the present. The following provides a more detailed description, with many of the questions asked. Africa s` • What is culture? • A comparative study of cultures • How does culture influence the way we live? • Map reading and making skills • A study of the climatic regions of the African continent (Tropical Wet, Tropical Wet & Dry, Desert, Mediterranean) • African topography • Early African civilizations (Egyptian) • Trading states and kingdoms (the Empires of Mali and Ghana) • The role of early government • Family life • Slavery (the Triangular Trade, Slave Codes in the Americas, From Slavery to L.A. Riots of 1992) • Imperialism (comparative study of global imperialism from the American colonies, to India, to Algeria) • Impact of colonialism • Winning independence (case study of Ghana) • Case study of South Africa (from the Boer War and Shaka Zulu, to the end of Apartheid and the AIDS epidemic) • Individual research project on African country. • Africa today (government, role of women, Pan-Africanism, and international trade) Assessment g Assessment will be a continuous process. Students will be expected to do: httn-//www.westlakeacademv_org/cros/liumaniti es_htm 1?n=t Page 1 of 2 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy:: Humanities Page 2 of 2 • Short answer questions • Essay question on Imperialism and Decolonisation • Group presentations (using IT) • Individual research project on African country • Class participation • Writing a speech condoning/condemning slavery • Creation of African mural Europe • Comparison of European culture (case study of Britain, Spain and Scandanavia) • European climate • European topography • Ancient history (Greek and Roman) • The Middle Ages (feudalism, manorial system, role of Church) • The Renaissance (great artists and their sponsors) • The Reformation (Reformation and Counter Reformation) • European exploration (The explorers and the discoveries) • Scientific Revolution • Agricultural & Industrial Revolution (causes, inventions and consequences) • Nationalism in Europe (Italy & Germany) • WWI & II (causes and consequences) • Case study of post World War If Germany • The European Community and its role as a Superpower Assessment Assessment will be a continuous process. Students will be expected to do: • Short answer questions • Comparative essay on European culture • Presentation on Renaissance • Art display on Renaissance • Group work on great explorers • The reconstruction of scientific advancements in the 16th, 17th & 18th Centuries. • Essay on Industrial Revolution • Nationalistic speeches • Newspaper report on WWI & 11 • Debate on causes of World War I ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions httn•//www_ wectlnkBnnndemv nro/cmc/THrmmnnitie- html?n=t 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy:: English f'} ASK E KE A C A D E M Y 7th Grade Course Description for Language A Language A in the Middle Years Programme is the best language of the student. At Westlake Academy, this is English. The study of Language A provides the basic tool of communication that students use in all of their subjects, as well as developing social contacts and encouraging self- expression. In addition to this, Language A provides the study of a broad variety of forms of expression through language by fulfilling cultural and intercultural roles and influencing the personal, moral and spiritual development of the student through literature. Students are to encourage the students to: • use the language with enjoyment as a vehicle of thought, creativity, learning and self- expression • respond appropriately to a variety of texts • gain a deeper understanding of human nature and thus of oneself and others • develop a critical approach to literature • comprehend more clearly aspects of one's own culture and those of other people's cultures • encourage a wide reading for enjoyment. The objectives of the programme are to improve and develop the interactive components of language study — listening, reading, speaking and writing. Activities include reading comprehension, presentations, poetry, analysis of texts and personal responses, essay writing, debating and creative writing. Students are expected to read at least four set texts each year. This years 7th Grade will be reading the following texts: Cry, the Beloved Country The Merchant of Venice Lord of the Flies To Kill a Mockingbird Animal Farm The above texts have been selected as part of the wider curriculum, making clear cross - curricular links. For example, when students read Cry, the Beloved Country, they will be studying the African continent, using South Africa as a case study. Assessment Assessment will be continuous and varied. Assessment will be based on a variety of types of activity since no one task will cover all the objectives of the MYP subject. Projects, exhibitions, oral presentations, performances and demonstrations as well as written papers or essays all provide evidence for the assessment of student learning. httn•//www wectlakeararlPmv nru/emc/Fnulich html?n=t Page 1 of 2 11 A 6/?nn4 Westlake Academy :: English Page 2 of 2 This year students will be asked to respond to various forms of literature (short stories and novels), identifying plot, theme and character. As well as the assigned reading, students will be required to read outside of the curriculum (something which will be monitored through the keeping of a reading log. This programme will start in January.). As well as responding to literature, students will also be expected to be creative, and will be asked to write a piece of creative literature at least once a month. One on-going assignment students will be asked to fulfill is that of the creation and publication of a student newspaper. This will be a class activity, where each student is responsible for writing an article and submitting it to an elected editor. Oral presentations will take the shape of improvisations and speeches. Students will be expected to write an argumentative speech on a topic of their choice. They will also be expected to write a speech on a topic assigned to them. This is an activity that they will have to do each term. The IBO stipulates that by the end of 7th Grade students should be able to: O familiarize themselves with the specialized scholarly and social vocabulary they need O analyze the structure of a text O analyze a summary, noting important words (conjunctions etc.) O memorize and retell the salient points of a summary O defend their personal views in a discussion O interpret data presented in a variety of forms (eg spreadsheets, graphs, pie charts) O represent data in written form O prepare different types of compositions (eg narrative, descriptive) O rewrite an author's passage or scenes O write informal letters O take simple notes. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions httn://www.westlakeacademv_org/cros/F.nolich html'?n=t 1 1 A AiNnna Westlake Academy:: Maths s W E I'll,. K E A C A D E M Y Mathematics 7th Grade Course Description for Mathematics The Mathematics programme that the students at Westlake Academy will study begins with the core topics of 6th grade math and builds upon them. In mathematics the students will develop their number sense, while developing probelm solving skills and algebraic reasoning. In grade 7 the students will learn to recognize and generalize patterns and relationships and apply this knowledge to increasingly difficult problems. The units of study will include fractions, decimals, and percents; polygons; an introduction to Algebra; an introduction to geometry; probability; similarity; proportional reasoning; 3-D measurment; and integers. The focus of this year will be to develop skills that will increase their higher level thinking skills to prepare them for Algebra I and 11, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Calculus. The following breakdown will show the areas of study in a more detailed format. Fractions, Decimals, and Percents • convert between fraction, decimal, and percent • add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions • add, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals • apply knowledge to word problems • develop critical thinking in logic problems Polygons • find area of quadrilaterals, triangles, octagons, pentagons, heptagons, & hexagons • determine angle measures using interior and exterior angles • develop an understanding of similar and congruent polygons • construct angles using protractors and compasses • make circle graphs using data from surveys • develop geomtery vocabulary with angles and lines • begin to develop understanding of slope and the formula • understand and develop tranformations and tessalations Equations • set up and solve one-step and two-step equations • be able to solve two linear equations that represent real world problems • solve a system of two equations with two variables through substitution • solve equations with two variables using basic operations E Data Analysis and Probablity s • calculate the mean within a mathematical or problem solving situation • interpret and utilize a stem -and -leaf plot Page 1 of 2 1,1+„•//:zrzznv zvaa+l �lra�n�`lcmv �zrrt/nmc%A Totho b+m19"=+ 11 /1 A1100d Westlake Academy:: Maths Page 2 of 2 • determine the experimental probability of an event • calculate the odds of an event within a problem solving situation • find measures of central tendency including mode, median, mean, and range Measurement • conversion of degrees celcius to fahrenheit given the formula • solve problems involving elapsed time and conversion of units of measurement when given different units • convert either standard or metric units of measurement • convert units of weight within either metric or standard system • solve problems using scale factors using ratio and proportion • volume of circular cylinders, cones, cubes, prisms, amd pyramids Number and Operations • add mixed numbers in vertical and horizontal formats • subtract positive and negative integers, decimals, and fractions • add and subtract radicals • determine the number of permutations of n items taken m at a time within the real world- context Graphing • making graphs, charts, and tables to show data • use different graphs to show relevant data • understanding the cartesian plane • use data and problems to graph equations, functions, inequalities, and parabolas TI -83 Graphing Calculators • programming 4 • modeling functions, probability, equations, inequalities • activities to develop stronger understanding in all areas of interactions 02004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions httn://www.westlakeacademv.org/cros[Maths_html?n=t 11 /1612.004 Westlake Academy:: Science i � a k iS1J A C A D E M Y Science 7th Grade Course Description for Science The aims, objectives and framework of the MYP Science course at Westlake Academy are designed to promote science as a cooperative venture between individuals and the international community. The program comprises the traditional subjects of biology, chemistry and physics (these three areas will become more distinct in grades 9 and 10) as well as the basic topics, concepts and issues from other branches of science, such as earth and health science. The overall objective in grade 7 is to provide students with a foundation that will make them scientifically literate so they can make informed judgments and decisions about scientific issues and use the acquired scientific process skills for successful problem solving. In grade 7 students investigate Astronomy, Chemical Interactions, Newton's Laws, DNA/Genes to Proteins, Earth Processes and Plants in our World. The following provides a more detailed description. Astronomy • The sky in motion • As the Earth turns • Skies around the world • Stars throughout the year • The Sun and seasons • Planet watch • Constellations and myths • Three-dimensional star field • Seeing more/lenses • Life cycle of a star • Galaxies • Are we alone/probability of intelligent life forms • Light pollution/environmental issues Assessment Assessment will be a continuous process. Students will be expected to: • Answer short answer questions • Research past astronomers/class presentations • Class participation • Lab journals/reports e • Creation of Solar System model • Demonstrate proper use of scientific tools of astronomy • Mathematical calculations such as figuring rate of shuttle falling in lhttn•/Axnxnxr nro/rmc/QrianrP 1htm19n=t Page 1 of 4 11A60n04 Westlake Academy:: Science Page 2 of 4 space Chemical Interactions • The density of liquids • Pressure and volume of a gas • Solutions and suspensions • Atomic Structure • Making Molecules • Ionic and covalent compounds • Chemical Equations • Isomers • Organic compounds • Acids and bases • Neutralization • Oxidation • Precipitates Assessment Assessment will be a continuous process. Students will be expected to: • Answer short answer questions • Research the contributions of past chemists/class presentations • Class participation • Construct model atoms with team members • Balance chemical equations • Build models to demonstrate the three-dimensional structure of molecules • Individual research and paper on environmental issues in chemistry, the responsibility of scientists in causing some of the problems, and science's potential for solutions/limitations Newton's Toy Box • Gravity and balance • Motion in review • Moving masses • The parachute drop • Basketball arcs • Ball and cup contest • Rolling on/distance and time activity • The great race/average speed/potential energy • Accelerating masses • Come -back cans • Action -reaction in action • Clacker conservation Assessment Assessment will be a continuous process. Students will be expected to do: • Short answer questions • Class participation • Grasshopper game/describing action -reaction & jumping ability of grasshoppers of different masses • Calculations --speed of moving objects and average speed of a car rolling down a ramp at different points • Research Newton's Laws/class presentations with demonstrations DNA -Genes to Proteins 1itt"•/ imine Azractlnlr.-nP-1 amv nrcr/rmc/Crianra ht n19"=t 1 1 /1 A1100d Westlake Academy:: Science Page 3 of 4 • How do I Look/personal features and characteristics • Proteins and appearances • What's in a cell • Modeling a cell • What's in a nucleus • Modeling DNA • Replicating DNA • Modeling a message/mRNA • Protein synthesis • Genes and mutations • Simpler cells/structure of bacteria cells and virus particles vs. animal cells • How DNA is used in cells • DNA fingerprinting Assessment Assessment will be a continuous process. Students will be expected to: • Answer short answer questions • Essay questions • Construct models of a cell and its parts • Build DNA model • Research human genome process and discuss its implications/present to class • Choose a disease to research, discuss how it affects the cells, treatments/medications available to cure or treat the disease Earth Processes • Pieces of a puzzle/how continents move • Structure of the Earth • Earth's weathered crust • Sediments become rocks • Volcanoes become rocks • The rock cycle • Mountains • Earthquakes • Seismographs • Ring of fire • Convection currents • Ocean floor • Plate tectonics Assessment Assessment will be a continuous process. Students will be able to: • Answer short answer questions • Create a model Earth and all its layers • Make model sedimentary rocks and compare to real ones • Construct a volcanic eruption to show how magma escapes to form rocks and mountains • Model the energy waves produced by an earthquake • Build a seismograph and use it to measure the strength of a simulated earthquake • Choose a volcanic eruption or earthquake to research, discuss how it effected the environment and people living in the area as well as its economic impact on the area. Present findings along with a visual aid to Westlake Academy:: Science Page 4 of 4 the class. Plants in Our World • Plant and animal cells • Stems: Structure and Function • What plants need • Stomata and transpiration • Plants taking in gas/giving off gas • Paper chromatography • Plants making food • Chlorophyll • Cellular respiration in plants • Plants storing foods • Uses of plants Assessment Assessment will be a continuous process. Students will be expected to: • Observe slides and determine plant and animal cells • Observe/compare/record growth of seedlings in light and dark as well as when given various amounts of water • Set up an experiment to compare the intake of carbon dioxide by green plants in light and dark conditions • Separate the pigments first in black ink using paper chromatography and then in extracts of anacharis and onion using paper chromatography • Compile a list of a variety of products made from plant materials and categorize them according to use • Research the importance of plants to our lives (rainforest - deforestation/villagers, medicinal uses of plants, natural/herbal remedies—safety/FDA regulations, shaman, other historical/cultural uses) ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions liffn-//umnu �x�Pctlalraanar3amv nrcTh-me/Q!`1Pnr`P htMI9n=t 1 1 /1 Al?()OA Westlake Academy:: Homework Page z 3 WE, � E .f+rpv' k o 3 ev `2h: A C A D E M Y Homework Page The Homework Page provides parents and students the opportunity to see the homework set in each of the subjects. Parents: You will be able to see what your son/daughter should be doing Students You don't have any excuse for not knowing what work was set! As this page is in its very early trial phase, not all subjects will be posted. By the end of November, all classes will be included. Humanities Answer the questions: How did African nations achieve independence? What challenges did they face? Answer question 3 on Thinking Critically p.131 All assignments are due next Tuesday English Finish newspaper article. Due Wednesday 17th. Read Act 1 Scene 2 for Tuesday Maths Read and complete questions on page 187. numbers 14 - 52. Due Monday Science WED Homework ... (for tonight -due Fri.) ... First paragraph researching the desalinization process. Second paragraph researching salt panning by various cultures. (What is it? How is it done? What was it used for?) FRI Homework ... (due Mon.)...First paragraph researching the health hazards of radon exposure. Second paragraph discussing radon test kits. (What they are, how they're used, should you have one for home safety, etc.) NOTE***All hw assignments should be typed and presentable with student's NAME, DATE, and a TITLE!!! ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions httrr//vuurw wectlakencarlemv or9,1rms13.5_htm1?n=t Page 1 of 1 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy:: Overview ,��M' E E A C A D E M Y Overview The Westlake Academy is more than the timbers and stone that house it and even more than the educational processes which take place within it. Westlake Academy is truly defined by the dedication, innovation and the spirit of the individuals who make it happen. With each passing day, the vision of the Westlake town founders continues to mature into the reality of an innovative, effective, international public school at the hands of the many. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 1 of 1 http://www.westlakeacademy.or,R/cros/community overview.html?p=t 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy :: The School Board AR., E A C A D E M Y The School Board L,� .: 0.11 !t _+ ilk [ The town has an alderman/manager form of government with a generally elected Mayor and a 5 member Board of Aldermen. The Board of Aldermen have appointed themselves as the first School Board for Westlake Academy. Scott Bradley (Mayor) Born 1938 in Crowell, Texas. Education: Odessa College (AA, 1959), Texas Tech University (BA, 1961), Southern Methodist University (JD, 1964; LLM in Taxation, 1976). Married to Kelly Pace for 39 years. Two daughters and four grandchildren. After practicing for 37 years as a corporate and securities law specialist for major law firms, opened a small law office in Southlake: Moved to Westlake in 1977 and established Paigebrooke Farm at the corner of Precinct Line Road and Dove Road. The farm was reestablished at the corner of Dove Road and J. T. Ottinger Road in 1998 when Fidelity Investments bought the original site for its corporate office campus. Active in numerous civic affairs. Vision for Westlake: maintain a close-knit community where services are delivered cost effectively through technology and entrepreneurship, encourage development of corporate campuses that preserve large open spaces, and,preserve natural features of the land as public spaces to be enjoyed by all citizens. Fred Held (Mayor Pro -Tem) Born 1935 in Dallas, Texas. Married to Ruby Palmer for 43 years. Two children and one granddaughter. Lived in Irving, Texas for 25 years before moving to Westlake 15 years ago. Retired President/CEO of Elliott's Hardware. Lions Club Member for 20 years; and member of the First Baptist Church Trophy Club. Enjoys tinkering with antique cars, traveling with wife and soaking up Westlake's rural atmosphere. Vision for Westlake: keep the best of the Town's rural characteristics while allowing for high quality commercial developments. Don Redding Born 1938 in Caney, Kansas. Education: Kansas State University, 1961. Married to Betty Rinck for 44 years. One son and three grandchildren. Resident of Westlake's Stagecoach Hills Subdivision for 22 years. Worked for IBM for 33 years where he was involved in engineering, education and marketing — both domestically and internationally. Officer in the Metroport Meals on Wheels Board of Directors; Past Vice Chairman of the Westlake Planning & Zoning Commission. Enjoys flying, hunting, fishing, canoeing, snowmobiling, and other outdoor activities, particularly in the mountains. Vision for Westlake: build a Town where the standards for quality of life (i.e. environment, education and community spirit) are the highest and where all the citizens can participate in and enjoy and take pride in their community. Bill Frey Born 1932 in New Castle, PA. Education: Westminster College in Pennsylvania. Married to Kay Loney for 44 years. Two children and seven grandchildren. Retired Vice President of GTE. During 30 years with GTE accumulated a high level of experience dealing with regulatory agencies and elected officials on both the national and state levels of government. Was also involved in 1,tt„•//aana­ btm19n=t Page 1 of 2 11 /1 A/l)nna Westlake Academy:: The School Board Page 2 of 2 negotiation activities with other communication organizations. Resident of the Stagecoach Hills Subdivision since 1987. Enjoys flying, building aircraft, woodworking and traveling. Vision for Westlake: An upscale rural community of few residents, transitioning into a more populated, progressive place in which to live, while continuing to value its friendly rural ambience and accommodating well planned business development. Larry Sparrow Born 1944 in Durham, North Carolina. Education: MBA University of Illinois. Married to Janet Hodges for 40 years. Two sons and three granddaughters. 32 year career with GTE, retiring as President Wholesale Markets. Career involved 13 corporate transfers with assignments coast to coast. Built and moved to retirement home in Westlake in 1999. Enjoys golf, horses, cows, llamas and fitness. Vision for Westlake: For Westlake to become the most ideal community in North Texas to live, work and visit, and to maintain the beautiful geography while also allowing high quality development. Buddy Brown Born 1951 in Corsicana, Texas. Education: Two degrees in Aviation from ASA. Married to Patty McMullen for 31 years. One daughter. Education: Two aviation degrees from ASA. Owns Brown's Auto Supplies retail stores. Resident of the Stagecoach Hills Subdivision for 20 years. Member of the Board of Directors of the Westlake Development Corporation. Past member of: the City of Watauga's Public Safety Hiring Review Board; Westlake's Planning and Zoning Commission; and Westlake's Finance Committee. Enjoys flying, hunting and fishing Anglers Choice Tournaments. Vision for Westlake: Keep Westlake's unique close knit family-oriented environment, while allowing room for high quality growth. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions �z t4z�•//<:nznz� <z�oot��Uc�n��am<� nrn/nme/erl�nnlhnar� 11fM19n—t 11 A r1�7(inQ Westlake Academy : : KE WE A C A D E M Y School Head and Teachers The Head of School The academy will be led by a Head, experienced in the start-up of schools and running an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. The Head will oversee the hiring of teachers fitting the Westlake Academy profile for innovative, motivating and nurturing education. The Head will provide leadership for academic development and, together with PYP experienced teachers, will craft the curriculum and activities in a manner consistent with the International Baccalaureate philosophy and the Town's broad objectives in providing an excellent educational environment. The Teachers Westlake Academy began teacher recruitment in February (see Join Our Staff). Advertisements were placed in EducationWeek, The Times Educational Suppliment (a U.K. publication widely read by International school teachers) as well as The Westlake First News, The Fort Worth Star Telegram, and the Dallas Morning News. Teachers can have a profound influence on their students. Educators in the XXI century need to be life-long learners who address the heart as well as the mind. They must guide their students to reach their potential, develop the skills to adapt their learning to a rapidly changing world and become globally responsible, caring citizens of the world. For that reason, teacher training will be a hallmark of the Academy. Teachers will begin IB training before the Academy opens and will have on- going development courses in the most current successful teaching methods. Head of School Mrs. Barbara Lilly Brizuela, BA MA A US citizen born, raised and educated on the East Coast, Mrs. Barbara Lilly Brizuela, has had teaching and administrative experience in four different countries at primary, high school and university levels. She comes to Westlake from Northlands, an independent day school in Buenos Aires, Argentina for over 1100 students ages 2 to 18 offering the IB Diploma and PYP. At Northlands she recently headed the start-up of its new second campus in the northern suburbs and has been involved in the building design, construction plans and staffing and has been responsible for assuring the high standards and international reputation of Northlands. As an official IBO-PYP Trainer, Mrs. Brizuela has excellent working knowledge of the program and has been involved in training teachers and authorizing schools in five different countries. With a passion for education, a love of children and a firm commitment to team work, Mrs. Brizuela looks forward to returning to the USA to help' shape a school dedicated to Page 1 of 2 1,+tr�•/hzn:nv wactl�bPon�riamv nrn/�me/crhnnlhaari ht-nI9n=t 11 /160004 Westlake Academy : : providing the best educational program for young people to become highly capable, responsible citizens who will be actively involved in global understanding. Mrs. Brizuela has been married for over 30 years to Eliseo Brizuela, a Civil Engineer with an MSA, and they have three daughters and two young granddaughters, all living in the States. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy i Terms & Conditions httn•//www wPctIA-P.ncnriemv nrff/cmc/cchnnlhead htm]9n=t Page 2 of 2 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy : : r� 'TEK A C A D E M Y The Town of Westlake The Westlake Academy reflects the values of the greater community it serves. Settled in 1847 and incorporated in 1956, the town of Westlake is a small community located in north Tarrant and southern Denton Counties in the western section of the cross -timbers region of north Texas. Who Lives Here The town's population is just over 250 people with a maximum anticipated population of 3,000. The majority of the town's seven square mile area is zoned for campus office uses similar to the recently completed Fidelity Investments Regional Headquarters. Other corporate neighbors in Westlake include IBM, Daimler Chrysler, Wells Fargo, Verizon and many others. Westlake, Texas Governance ano voncies The Town maintains a Website with more The town has an alderman/manager form of information about our community. government with a generally elected Mayor, Scott Bradley, and a 5 member Board of Aldermen. The Town Manager is appointed by the Board and is responsible for all town services. Policy Objectives The town of Westlake operates on seven distinct policy objectives established by the Board of Aldermen: • Uncompromised Land Use Planning — The town maintains a rigorous land use plan that strictly regulates the types of uses that are allowed in Westlake. Warehouse and heavy industrial uses are not allowed. Inherent in the plan are liberal acreages of parks, trails, and open spaces, which meander through the entire community. • Strict Development Standards —The developers of Westlake have imposed rigorous deed restrictions within the residential and retail sectors of the town to assure consistent high quality architecture and construction materials. • Buffered Low Density Residential — Westlake's low-density residential focus and emphasis on open space and large estate lots have attracted several celebrity residents who enjoy the quiet private quality of life that Westlake offers. Westlake is also home to the sprawling Circle T Ranch owned by Ross Perot, Jr. • Expansive Corporate Office Campus Uses — Large corporate campus uses are encouraged and continue to proliferate throughout Westlake. These uses are required to be sensitive to the acreages on which they are placed, provide expansive buffers, strict lighting plans and traffic management that does not negatively impact neighborhoods. • Secluded Yet Strategic Location — While secluded and pastoral, Westlake is remarkably conveniently located. Corporate executives with busy travel schedules are only minutes Pagel of 2 1 1 t1 f//1 AAA Westlake Academy:: Page 2 of 2 west of DFW Airport and east of the growing employment base at Alliance Airport. Westlake's unique pristine environment, coupled with its proximity to the Dallas Fort Worth metroplex and its unlimited service and entertainment opportunities, have made it one of the most sought-after communities in the southern United States. • Hometown Benefits with High Tech Services — The charm of a small town where people know their neighbors and feel safe on an evening walk still exists in Westlake. The efforts to pre -plan development in Westlake have resulted in a community that holds very tight to its heritage and its identity, while still providing the high tech services necessary to compete for top corporate clients and to provide excellent services to its residential community. • Preparatory K-12 Academy Education — Fundamental to the success of any community are its schools. Westlake is located partially within three separate school districts, the Keller ISD, Northwest ISD and the Carroll ISD. Since Westlake is on the outer edges of each district, and since the residential build out of Westlake will likely never merit the construction of a school in the town by any of the three ISD's, the town applied for, and became, the first to receive a Charter from the State of Texas Board of Education to construct and operate a Charter School — The Westlake Academy. The Academy is currently under construction and is being built in conjunction with the new Town Hall, and Recreation Center. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Westlake Academy : : WE��k F A C A D E M Y The Westlake Area Westlake is a community that stands unique among other cities Area Attractions in north Texas. Remarkably beautiful, the town of Westlake is Performing Arts characterized by an unusually hilly topography covered in Dallas Children's Theater mature oak trees and lovely ponds. A well -conceived master Dallas Theater Center plan for this small town has enabled it to remain a low-density Theatre Three enclave of homes, businesses and public uses that are well Fort Worth Symphony above neighboring communities in terms of quality. Yet, despite Dallas Symphony Orchestra its pastoral nature, Westlake is positioned directly between two Fort Worth Opera Dallas Opera powerful engines of growth: DFW Airport to the east and Alliance Airport to the west. Recreational Amenities Fossil Rim These two airports have an enormous impact on the economy of Dallas Zoo the Dallas/Fort Worth area and their proximity is a principal Fort Worth Zoo << reason that major corporations have located large regional Dallas Arboretum Dallas Farmer's Market campuses here. Westlake enjoys easy access to all points in the Fort Worth Stockyards metroplex, with an average drive time of 35 minutes to Fort Worth Nature Center downtown Dallas and 25 minutes to downtown Fort Worth. Heard Museum Six Flags Over Texas In addition to its strategic location, Westlake is unique in its Fort Worth Botanic Garden financial structure. Unlike virtually every other city in Texas, Dallas World Aquarium Westlake assesses no property tax. No other community in the area offers this kind of financial advantage. Sports Bank of America Colonial Byron Nelson The vibrancy of any community is enhanced by the presence of Dallas Sidekicks a diversity of cultural and recreational amenities. Its location Dallas Burn between Dallas and Fort Worth offers a tremendous amount of Dallas Mavericks resources for residents. Several world-renowned museums are Dallas Stars located in this area. Some of the cultural resources are: Texas Motor Speedway Lone Star Park Perhaps more important than the setting, the economy or the Texas Rangers Dallas Cowboys amenities, Westlake is a community of people. With visionary leadership, the residents of this small community banded Visual Arts together to fight for the right to build the Westlake Academy. Amon Carter Museum Despite many obstacles along the way, Westlake made history Modern Art Museum of Fort by becoming the first community to receive a charter for its own Worth The Kimbell Art Museum school. That sense of community, or working together fora Dallas Museum of Art common cause, is among the greatest attribute of this town. Nasher Sculpture Center Page 1 of 2 t 1 n r,»nna Westlake Academy :: Monthly Calendar Westlake Academy Calendar 4 November 2004 > f9d 711-02" .._ Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 Daylight Election Day Dress Day Savings -1 hr Halloween 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 5:00 WLA @ Veteran's Day Dress Day 10:00 Fort Worth Dress Day 5:00 WLA @ Gallery Day Academy 5:00 WLA vs Christian Life Academy vs Prep HighPoint 7:00 Night at the Gallery Marriot Solana 7-9 p... 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 5:00 WLA @ 5:00 WLA vs Dress Day St. Vincent Hill School (girls) 21 22 23 24 25 26 271 PYP PYP Holiday/Staff Thanksgiving Thanksgiving Consultation Consultation Development Thanksgiving Holiday Visit Visit Holiday 28 29 30 1 2 3 41 6:00 WLA @ Dress Day Lake Country Report to (boys B) parents Scholastic Book Fair begins 5:00 WLA VS FWCDS (GIRLS) This site is RSS-Enabled Page 1 of 1 1 1 114hMd Westlake Academy :: Notices �tzeF„ A C A D E M Y Notices NOTICE OF A SCHOOL BOARD MEETING. 110-14-20041 WESTLAKE ACADEMY NOTICE OF A SCHOOL BOARD MEETING TO THE CITIZENS OF THE TOWN OF WESTLAKE, TEXAS: Notice is hereby given that the School Board of the Westlake Academy will meet at 8:00 p.m. on Monday, October 11, 2004, in the Boardroom of the Town Hall, located at 2650 J.T. Ottinger Road, in the Town of Westlake, Texas. The Board will consider the following agenda: 1. Meeting called to order and announce a quorum 2. EXECUTIVE SESSION. A. The Board will conduct a closed session under Texas Government Code section 551.074 to discuss personnel matters. B. Reconvene into open meeting. 3. Take any necessary action with respect to Item #2 above. 4. Consider a Resolution adopting revisions to the Westlake Academy policies and procedures handbook. 5. Consider a Resolution designating an investment officer for the Westlake Academy. 6. Consider a Resolution authorizing the CEO to enter into a depository contract with Bank One. 7. Consent Agenda: All items listed below are considered routine by the Board and will be enacted with one motion. There wilt 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. Review and approve minutes of the workshop and regular meeting held on August 23, 2004. B. Review and approve any outstanding bills. 8. Adjournment. CERTIFICATION I certify that the above notice was posted on the front door of the Town Hall of the Town of Westlake, 2650 J.T. Ottinger Road, Westlake, Texas, on Friday, October 8, 2004, at 5:00 p.m., under the Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code. Ginger Crosswy, Secretary The Board may at any time convene into executive session as authorized by Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code to discuss any item posted on the agenda 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. Please review important upcoming events... ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 1 of 1 1 1 /160004 Westlake Academy:: Overview Lc* �t t i EUz° E.KE A C A D E M Y Overview Available Grades Westlake Academy will open its doors to First through Sixth grades in the fall of 2003. Kindergarten and Seventh grade will be added in 2004-05 and with each successive year, a new grade will be added until the school serves all grades K-12. Ultimately the Town plans to build a Pre -K facility at the campus as well. Please refer to the Elegibility Section for important information about who may attend the Westlake Academy. Application Process Admission packets, including applications for Westlake residents will be available beginning February 10, 2003 at the Westlake Town Nall. 02004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 1 of 1 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy: : MI ry s WE KE r3 R A C A D E M Y Official Westlake Academy Calendar The Official Westlake Academy Calendar indicating required 2004-2005 School days of attendance, holidays and early dismissal days may be Calendar downloaded at right. The Westlake Academy 2004- 017" " Please be sure to refer to our ______, 2005 School Calendar may be downloaded in .pdf format Dynamic Calendar in the News here.ad and Events Area to stay c.pdf>. informed about current /,� cetnir°ba Reoder- academic and athletic events. Ad,,, ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 1 of 1 11 A Ai?nna Westlake Academy : : f s�* t 'EXE A C A D E M Y The Parent/Student Handbook The Handbook for 2003-2004 is currently in DRAFT form and will be among the topics discussed at the Parent Meeting scheduled Monday June 16, 2003. The current draft may be downloaded at right. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Parent/Student Handbook The Westlake Academy Admission Policy may be downloaded in Adobe Acrobat form. Download (.pdo. r cet ►n>r RtkaCrr Page 1 of 1 1 111 ti/?nna Westlake Academy : : An vs E A C A D E M Y � - -- i[; C'U! [X] Westlake Academy believes that appropriate dress and parker School Uniforms grooming contributes to a productive learning environment in which students can focus on learning, develop an awareness of Parker School Uniforms is the others, develop character and good citizenship skills, instill (only) official Westlake respect and self-discipline. Student dress standards also Academy uniform supplier. promote a positive image of the school within the community Uniforms may be purchased and encourage students to uphold and enhance that image. online at their website at the Students must remain in the required uniform at all times while link below. on campus. The prescribed uniform can be obtained through The nearest retail store is Parker Uniforms located at 3001 Highway 121, Suite 286, located at 3001 Highway 121, Euless, TX 76039, phone (817) 545-4000. Suite 286, Euless, TX 76039, phone (817) 545-4000. Students shall be required to show proper attention to personal 3 cleanliness, neatness, and conservative standards of dress and Link to Site. appearance, as follows: 1. Distracting hairstyles, haircuts or distractive hair coloring is prohibited. 2. Distracting headwear is also prohibited. 3. Nail coloring must not be distractive, and must be neatly applied and maintained. 4. Jewelry must complement the uniform. It is limited to simple earrings, a necklace, a bracelet, a ring, and a basic wristwatch. Jewelry is not to be dangerous or of the body piercing type, except earrings. Students may not wear heavy chains, such as studded or wallet types. 5. Shoes should be clean, serviceable, and offer protection to the feet. Dress shoes, tennis shoes, and strapped sandals are approved as long as the colors are not distractive to the uniform. Flip-flops and unstrapped or untied shoes may not be worn. 6. Matching socks must be worn at all times. Students may wear solid white, khaki, red, or navy blue socks that must extend over the ankle. Girls may wear tights of the same colors as socks. 7. Hats or sunglasses are not permitted on campus without the Head of School?s permission. Such permission is granted only in religious and medical circumstances or during P.E. activities. Dress Uniform Requirements Dress Uniform Day will occur every Wednesday throughout the school year. Students will be required to wear their full dress uniform. Dress uniform requirements are available through the Parker Uniform website. The online code to access the Westlake Academy uniform specifications is www.westlakeacademy.org. Page 1 of 2 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy:: Text Books x$KE A C A D E M Y Text Books 2003-3004 Instruction at Westlake Academy will involve a number of resources. The following are the State of Texas provided subject matter text books which will be included among available teaching resources at the Academy. Reading: Grades 1 - 3 SRA Open Court Reading System Grades 4 - 5 Scott Foresman Reading Grade 6 The EMC Masterpiece Series Handwriting: Grades 1 - 3 D'Nealian Handwriting (Scott Foresman) Math: Grades 1 - 5 Scott Soresman-Addison Wesley Math Grade 6 Connected Mathematics (Scott Foresman) Science: Grades 1 - 6 Full Option Science Systems (FOSS) (Delta) Social Studies: Grade 4 Macmillian/McGraw Hill Social Studies Grade 6 History Alive!Contemporary World Cultures Art: Grades 1 - 6 Adventures in Art (Scott Foresman) Music: Grades 1 - 6 Share the Music (McGraw Hill) ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 1 of 1 Westlake Academy : : E A C A D E M Y Student Supplies List Note: small backpacks as will fit in the lockers are fine, but bags/packs with rollers will not be permitted. At right, you will find a downloadable, printable document detailing the specific supplies for each grade level. Kindergarten The H.O.C. is pleased to announce we will be selling prepaid Supply List/Optional H.O.C. school supply packets for the upcoming 2004 - 2005 school Packet Order Form year. The supply packets will feature top quality, brand name Download (pdf). products specific to each grade level, including personal art supplies. The supply packets will be delivered to each student's Grade 1 classroom prior to the 1 st day of school. Supply List/Optional H.O.C. Packet Order Form The supplies will first be opened, labeled & organized per Download (.pdf). individual teacher's instructions. The supply packets will cost $45 each plus a $5 bulk supply fee, totaling $50 per student. Grade 2 Supply packets will be on sale through May 15th. (Late orders add $10 surcharge) Supply List/Optional H.O.C. Packet Order Form Download (pdf). Grade 3 Supply List/Optional H.O.C. Packet Order Form Download (.pdf). Grade 4 Supply List/Optional H.O.C. Packet Order Form Download (.pdf). Grade 5 Supply List/Optional H.O.C. Packet Order Form Download (.pdf). Grade 6 Supply List/Optional H.O.C. Page 1 of 2 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy : : Packet Order Form Download (.pol). Grade 7 Supply list/ Optional H.O.0 Packet Order Form. Download (.pdo. /A G Airq6 ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 2 of 2 1 1 /1 4111104 Westlake Academy : : r g WE KE A C A D E M Y Admission Policy The Westlake Academy is an open -enrollment Charter School operating under a Charter awarded to the Town of Westlake by the Texas State Board of Education, with oversight by the Texas Education Agency (TEA), Charter School Division. An open -enrollment Charter School may not deny admission to a student based on sex, national origin, ethnicity, religion, disability, academic ability, artistic ability, athletic ability, or based on the school district that the child would otherwise attend. The Westlake Academy will begin classes in the Fall of 2003 accepting only students in grades 1-6 who are of legal age to begin school in the State of Texas, having reached their 51h birthday by September 1, 2003. Definitions: Primary Geographic Boundary Student means a child of school age: (a) living with his/her parent or legal guardian who is a resident of Westlake, or (b) whose parent or grandparent is employed by, or is an officer of, the Town of Westlake or the Westlake Academy. Admission Policy The Westlake Academy Admission Policy may be downloaded in Adobe Acrobat form. Download (.pdo. r,� Get Acroba ,tee I Ro#der,'Z,ti Lottery Procedure The Westlake Academy has established an official procedure for conducting the lottery required to determine enrollment in the event that more students apply than there are available seats. The Procedure may be downloaded in Adobe Acrobat form. Download (.pdf . Secondary Boundary Students means any child of school age that does not meet the definition of Primary Geographic rWI0 let Acroba Boundary Student. �e > Reader^ Application Deadline means May 1, 2003. Lottery means a publicly posted and publicly conducted random drawing from names of Secondary Boundary Student applicants desiringadmission to the Westlake Academy. The date and time of the 20lottery is 6:00 pm, May 12, 2003 at the Westlake Academy Board of Directors' regular meeting to be held in the Education Center, Rooms #1 and #2, upstairs and across the hall from the Town of Westlake offices, 3 Village Circle, Suite 207, Solana, Westlake, Texas. All applicants in the lottery will be notified by mail. Waiting List means a list of applicants desiring admission when space becomes available. Late Application means an application received after the Application Deadline but before the beginning of school. Pagel of 3 Westlake Academy : : Application F -ocedttres: All parents wishing to enroll their students in the Westlake Academy must complete an Application for Enrollment. Applications are available at the Westlake Town Hall, 3 Village Circle, Suite 207, Westlake, Texas, between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm, Monday through Friday. Applications should be picked up in person. Applications must be received by 5 pm, Thursday, May 1, 2003. Admission Order: All Primary Geographic Boundary Students will be admitted to the Academy provided the Town of Westlake has received a completed application. The admission of Secondary Boundary Students is contingent upon available space. If, after May 1, 2003, there remain vacancies in any grade, Secondary Boundary Students will be admitted until all available vacancies are filled. If, however, Secondary Boundary Student applicants for any grade exceed the available vacancies within that grade, then the names of all Secondary Boundary Student applicants within that grade will be placed in a lottery for that particular grade to determine admission order. If two or more members of the same family apply for admission, then the family name will be placed in the lottery only once — not once for each applicant. (See Siblinos below). Names drawn after available vacancies have been fiMed will be placed on a Secondary Boundary Student waiting list and will be enrolled as vacancies occur. Example: Say the third grade has 32 available openings. If the Primary Geographic Boundary Students occupy ten of those openings, then the Board well in its discretion reserve sufficient places to accommodate any Primary Geographic Boundary Students who may become eligible to attend the Academy after the Application Deadline. Say this number is two. There then would be twenty available spaces for Secondary Boundary Students. Suppose for these twenty spaces available in the third grade, there are 35 eligible Secondary Boundary Students. The names of all 35 applicants will then be placed in the lottery.. The first twenty naives drawn will be admitted and the remaining fifteen will be placed on the waiting list in the order their names were drawn. Any Secondary Boundary Student application received after the Application Deadline will be placed at the end of the waiting list and will be admitted in the order that vacancies occur. Sibli11 s It is the intent of the Westlake Academy that siblings desiring enrollment will be afforded that opportunity. Therefore, if one Secondary Boundary Student sibling is admitted to the school then the other siblings who have completed an application also will be admitted. Year to Year Adintssion It is the current policy of the Board that, once admitted to the school, an eligible student would automatically qualify for enrollment in subsequent years without being subject to lottery. If, however, a Page 2 of 3 11 11 /I^nf%A Westlake Academy : : student leaves the school, then that student will be considered a new student for admission purposes and may be subject to lottery, depending upon vacancies. 02004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 3 of 3 Westlake Academy:: Eligibility x¢ } E A C A D E M Y Eligibility Westlake Academy is an open enrollment Charter School. Children who currently reside in Westlake (or will reside in Westlake by start of school in September 2003) are eligible to attend. The charter provides that the opportunity to attend extends first to Town of Westlake residents, and secondly to residents outside the Town. An open -enrollment Charter School may not deny admission to a student based on sex, national origin, ethnicity, religion, disability, academic ability, artistic ability, athletic ability, or based on the school district that the child would otherwise attend. No student is required to attend the Academy. Property ownership in the Town does not qualify for automatic enrollment until residency has been established. After those students who reside in Westlake have been admitted, and space allows, students in the secondary geographic area will be admitted. Selection to the Academy applies to entire families; therefore, siblings of admitted students are automatically eligible once they reach s� school age. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 1 of 1 Westlake Academy:: Overview WEKE A C A D E M Y Overview The founders and leaders of Westlake designed Westlake Academy to become the heart of the community. It is for this reason that the Westlake Academy and the municipality share a common campus located in the center of the town. Parents: The Heart of Participating Parents are encouraged to be actively involved in their children's education. Interactive, web based technologies will be deployed in the upcoming year that will allow parents to not only track their students' activities in the Academy, but also interact with teachers and potentially contribute as experts in the teaching process using distance learning technologies. We understand that many parent may have structured time they wish to volunteer to The Academy. We will certainly seek volunteers to be physically present in the school where the need arises. Calling All Volunteersl It is the vision of Westlake Academy that not only parents but interested Westlake citizens and volunteers from the many corporations represented in Westlake be able to contribute meaningfully to the educational process. A Mentor, Advisor, and Expert program is under development to bridge the learning needs of Westlake Students with available community resources. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 1 of 1 ----1---- — 1 1 ii K1100A Westlake Academy:: Book Drive r E KE A C A D E M Y Help us support Westlake Academy by stocking the library and buying some great Westlake Academy merchandise. Bring one or more new or used books and receive a 10% discount of cool new items such as caps, mugs, mouse pads and decals. The National Book Award for Young People's Literature is an excellent reference for books suitable for the library. !qe N tional Book Award for Young People's a � i National Book Foundation. Presented each year in November to recognize the outstanding contribution to children's literature. The National Book Award for Young People's Literature carries a $10,000 cash prize and the ' award committee will consider books of all genres written for children and young adults by U.S. writers with an emphasis on literary merit. The Young People's category was added to the National Book Awards in 1996. A Children's Books category had previously existed in the National Book Award/American Book Awards program from 1969 to 1983. • • ol ❑ Holes, by Louis Sachar Other Nominees • The Secret Life of Amanda K. Woods, Ann Cameron • Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key, Jack Gantos • No Pretty Pictures: A Child of War, Anita Lobel • A Long Way from Chicago, Richard Peck ❑ Dancing on the Edge, Han Nolan (Harcourt Brace) Other Nominees: 0 The Facts Speak for Themselves, Brock Cole (Front Street) Pagel of 3 Westlake Academy:: Book Drive • Sons of Liberty, Adele Griffin (Hyperion) Where You Belong, Mary Ann McGuigan (Atheneum) e Mean Margaret, Tor Seidler (HarperCollins) ❑ Parrot in the Oven: Mi Vida by Victor Martinez (HarperCollins Publishers/Joanna Colter Books) Other Nominees: a What Jamie Saw, by Carolyn Coman (Front Street) • A Girl Named Disaster, by Nancy Farmer (Orchard Books/Richard Jackson Books) • The Long Season of Rain, by Helen Kim (Henry Holt) • Send Me Down a Miracle, by Han Nolan (Harcourt Brace) 4,arcan Book Awards (1980- i 1983 ® Hardcover Fiction: Homesick: My Own Story, by Jean Fritz (Putnam) ® Paperback Fiction: Marked by Fire, by Joyce Carol Thomas (Avon) t,• and A Place Apart, by Paula Fox (NAL) • Nonfiction: Chimney Sweeps, by James Cross Giblin (Crowell) • Hardcover Picture Book: Doctor De Soto, by William Steig (Farrar) and Miss Rumphius, by Barbara Cooney (Viking) • Paperback Picture Book. A House is a House for Me, by Mary Ann Hoberman, ill. by Betty Fraser (Puffin) 1982 1981 ® Hardcover Fiction: Westmark, by Lloyd Alexander (Dutton) ® Paperback Fiction: Words by Heart, Ouida Sebestyen (Bantam) • Nonfiction: A Penguin Year, by Susan Bonners (Delacorte) • Hardcover Picture Book: Outside Over There, by Maurice Sendak (Harper) s Paperback Picture Book: Noah's Ark, by Peter Spier (Doubleday) • Hardcover Fiction: The Night Swimmers, by Betsy Byars (Delacorte) ® Paperback Fiction: Ramona and her Mother, by Beverly Cleary (Dell) • Nonfiction: Oh, Boy! Babies, by Alison Cragin Herzig and Jane Lawrence Mali (Little) 1980 • Hardcover Fiction: A Gathering of Days: A New England Girl's Journey, 1830-1832, by Joan W. Blos (Scribner) Paperback Fiction: A Swiftly Tilting Planet, Madeleine L'Engle (Dell) Page 2 of 3 Westlake Academy:: Book Drive Page 3 of 3 NationalBook Award (1969-1979) • 1979 - The Great Gilly Hopkins, by Katherine Paterson (Crowell) • 1978 - The View From the Oak, by Judith and Herbert Kohl (Sierra Club/Scribner) • 1977 - The Master Puppeteer, by Katherine Paterson (Crowell) • 1976 - Bert Breen's Barn, by Walter D. Edmonds (Little) i 1975 - M.C. Higgins, the Great, by Virginia Hamilton (Macmillan) s 1974 - The Court of the Stone Children, by Eleanor Cameron (Dutton) • 1973 - The Farthest Shore, by Ursula Le Guin (Atheneum) • 1972 - The Slightly Irregular Fire Engine, by Donald Barthelme (Farrar) • 1971 - The Marvellous Misadventures of Sebastian, by Lloyd Alexander (Dutton) • 1970 - A Day of Pleasure: Stories of a Boy Growing Up in Warsaw, by Isaac Bashevis Singer (Farrar) • 1969 - Journey From Peppermint Street, by Meindert DeJong (Harper) Thursday, November 19, 1998 United States Book Awards from: The Children's Literature Web Guide Copyright O 1994-1998 David K. Brown Permission granted to reproduce this page for nonprofit educational purposes ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions ..--- ------ 11/16/2004 Westlake Academy:: Students x u�> WE V� K A C A D E M Y Students Applying to Westlake Academy Westlake Academy is currently accepting applications for enrollment. For more information click here. Extracurricular Activities Westlake Academy students have a wide variety of extracurricular and community -related activities to get involved in. For more information click here. ©2004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy I Terms & Conditions Page 1 of 1 __1_ 1—_10— 1 1 /1 A/700,4 Westlake Academy : : �g WE KE A C A D E M Y Join our Staff All teaching positions for the 2004.2005 academic year have been filled. About Westlake Academy Related Information Westlake Academy opened in September 2003 in a purpose built facility in secluded and pastoral Westlake, Texas, Applications conveniently located between the cities of Dallas and Fort Applications for Employment Worth. Class sizes are small (projected 16 students per class) to with Westlake Academy may encourage individualized instruction. The facilities have been be picked up at the Westlake designed to foster a team teaching approach. Townhall Download (.pdo. Westlake Academy will select, recognize and support its for U Get Acroba teachers based on demonstrated ability, passion education IF AN Reader and compatibility with International Baccalaureate certification Adobe standards and training. The selection process is expected to include international applicants who share a passion for Charter School Handbook education in an unusually progressive environment. Specific information about the operation and function of Texas Charter Schools may be Westlake Academy is a Texas Open Enrollment Charter School. found in the Texas Charter Teachers at Westlake Academy are 'Public School' teachers School Handbook. under State law, and are entitled to the same benefits as Learn More... teachers teaching at traditional school districts. International Baccalaureate The Qualifications of the Successful Teacher Candidate Teachers interested in learning The Academy seeks both teachers from international schools more about the The with demonstrated thorough knowledge of the IB programs as International Baccalaureate Organization's Primary Years well as those who have not yet taught in an IB environment, but Program should read The PYP are excited about the opportunity to grow their teaching skills to School's Guide. include new approaches. Westlake Academy is an equal Download (.pdf). opportunity employer. Teacher Retirement System The successful candidate will: Full -Time Employees of Westlake Academy are eligible • Have completed a Bachelors degree for participation in the Texas Teachers Retirement System. • Have working knowledge of IBO-PYP/MYP Learn More... Possess the relevant Teaching credentialss • Be a good team worker and possess personal initiative • Evidence a constructivist approach to learning Foreign contracts include a moving stipend, travel and medical insurance. I i _.-_1--_-1 _a.. Cl 1_4.....t 7«-4 Page 1 of 2 11 /160004 Westlake Academy : : All applications should send a letter of application, CV, 2 recent references and the form available on this website to: bbrizuela@westlakeacademy.org or by mail to: Head of School Westlake Academy 2600 Ottinger Road Westlake, TX 76262 USA Application deadline: February 15, 2004 Please browse our website to learn more about the Academy and our objectives. 02004 Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy 1 Terms & Conditions Page 2 of 2 I '_-- _�_rrL. to .—� 11 A 6/?1104 Westlake Academy: : Address & Numbers ^�c�cum�nm�g ) WE, 11111 NE A C/kD EM Y Address & Numbers Westlake Academy 2GOOOttingorRoad Westlake, TX 76262 Phone 817-490-5757 Fax: 817-490-5758 CvContact usOnline. @uoo4Westlake Academy. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy | Terms uConditions Page 1 of I fo u 4 R is J Appendix 3 PYP Staff Training (Updated September Please indicate what IBO-approved PYP professional development and training your teaching staff have received. We are also interested in which teachers, if any, have visited PYP schools. Please indicate this below. Name Regional workshops: place/date/ number of days In -school workshops: date/number of days School visits: place/date Head of school/ Barbara Brizuela 113 PYP trainer: Introduction 1 day -Washington primary school Mexico City, Jan & 3 day School, Arg. 2000 principal 2001'.. Inquiry 2 day -Anglo- 2002,2003,2004 Rubrics 2 day Colombian, BsAs May Planners 2 day Colombia 2003 2001,2002,2003 -La Maisonette, IBNA Academy, Chile 2002 New Orleans, LA, -Santiago College, June 2005 Chile 2002 -Olinca, Mexico 2002 -Olinca Cuernavaca, Mexico 2003 -Greengates, Mexico 2003, 2004, 2005 -Gomez Palacio, Mexico 2003 Coordinator 4"' Elizabeth 3 day Introductory Greengates Bowie Workshop, School, Mexico Istanbul, Turkey City, 2004 2001 2 day- Internationalism Mexico City Jan., 2004 PYP Level 2 Coordinator Training, Vancouver, BC Feb. 2005 Year/grade 3-4 years Year/grade 4-5 years Year/grade Kinder - C_yndie 3 day Regional Munich Int'l 5-6 years Jacks Introductory School, Gennany Workshop, Austin, June, 2005 Texas July 25 — 27, 2004 Kinder — Dee 3 day Regional Jammal Introductory Workshop, Austin, Texas July 25 — 27, 2004 Year/grade 6-7 years 1'` Julie McGough 3 day Regional Introductory Workshop, Austin, Texas July 25 — 27, 2004 I" Gina McNeely -3 day Regional Introductory Workshop, Austin, Texas July 25 — 27, 2004 Year/grade 2nd Jean Shivers 3 day Introductory 7-8 years Workshop August 13 — 15, 2003 2nd Sandra Friesen Introductory Workshop Montreaux, Switzerland, September 24-27, 2003 Year/grade 8-9 years 3rd Alison 3 day Introductory Schneider Workshop August 13-15,2003 3rd Erin Austin 3 day Regional Introductory workshop, Austin, Texas July 17-20 3rd Shanthi Sampath Year/grade 4"' Amy Copeland 3 day Introductory 9-10 years Workshop August 13-15,2003 4`h Elizabeth 3 day Introductory Greengates Bowie Workshop, School, Mexico Istanbul, Turkey City, 2004 2001 2 day Internationalism Mexico City Jan., 2004 PYP Level 2 Coordinator Training, Vancouver, BC Feb. 2005 4`1' Jill Riche 3 day Introductory Workshop August 13-15,2003 Year/grade 10-11 years 5'h Diane Trahan 3 day Regional Introductory Workshop, Austin, Texas July 25 — 27, 2004 6"' Peggy Schmitz 3 day Introductory Workshop August 13-15,2003 Year/grade 11-12 years 6`1' Claudia Ourthe- April 29 -30, 2002 Feb. 18-19, 2004 Jan. 2004, Cabale Taller workshop "PYP Westlake Introductorio para Planners". Academy, maestros PEP, St. St. Brendan's Westlake, TX George's College School, USA North, BsAs, Montevideo- Argentia Uruguay Jan.2004, Churchill School, May 8-9, 2003 Mexico DF, "Inquiry in the Mexico PYP Planner" St. George's Jan. 2004, Escuela College North, Lomas Altas, BsAs, Argentia Mexico DF, May 3-4, 2004 Mexico "Internationalism Jan. 2004, in the PYP", St. Colegio Stella George's College Maris-Christian North, BsAs, Brothers, Argentina Montevideo - Uruguay 5u' Jean Smith 3 day Introductory Workshop August 13-15,2003 Arts (please Rosemary JaNvad 3 day Introductory specify) (Visual) Workshop August 13-15,2003 Stan Yoder (Music) Physical Mireida Rubayo 3 day Introductory St. Brendan's Education Workshop August School, 13-15,2003 Montevideo, Uruguay Northlands Olivos & Nordelta, Buenos Aires, Argentina Library/resource Carol Brown 3 day Introductory centre staff Workshop, August 13-15,2003 Others Maritza Jackson 3 day Introductory St. Brendan's (administrators, (Spanish) Workshop August School, counsellors, etc) 13-15,2003 Montevideo, Uruguay Nordilands Olivos & Nordelta, Buenos Aires, Argentina Daniella Lira (Spanish) Sundi Halbert 3 day Regional (Counselor) Introductory workshop, Austin, Texas July 25 — 27, 2004 Marlo Karg (Special Ed) Intended professional development over the next year: Introduction Workshop for new teachers and those lured after June, 2005 Level 2 Workshop (2-3 people): Coordinator Workshop The Academy also seeks to send teachers to non -IB courses that are aligned with IB, thus we have sent one teacher to Reggio Emilia, three teacher to ASCD conferences, one to a CIS Science conference; one to the Project Zero teacher workshop at Harvard and another to Inquiry through Arts. Appendix 7 Action Plan for Implementing the PYP (Updated September 2005) Goal Strategies Date to be achieved Person/group responsible for achieving the goal Evidence of achievement of, or progress towards, the goal -Train all Staff On-site August 2003 IB Trainers, Head All teachers hired Introductory 3 day of School by 11 August Workshop trained -Train all new PYP Introductory TTW Julv 2004 PYP Coordinator -7 new teachers staff at off site Off-site Head of School attend TTW in workshops Austin TY, July 2004 -In house Head of Throughout year Experienced PYP -work on inquiry, workshops School/PYP Co- staff assessment, coordinator portfolios -TTW workshops -as budget permits HOS - Future 2004-2005; 2005-6 coordinator attends coordinator's workshop in Vancouver -Improved classroom practice Have PYP teachers -take advantage of -on-going HOS -two PYP bilingual visit other personal trips, other 2004: 2 visit teachers visit authorized schools conference sites authorized PYP authorized schools and specially paid schools in in Latin America for visits Argentina and - two teachers will Uruguay be visiting other 2005: one visits PYP schools before school in Montreal the end of the 2004-5 academic year Improve Inquiry -share good -January 2005 HOS and PYP -increased throughout the practice onwards Coordinator awareness and school -expert reading -December 2004 evidence of inquiry groups onwards -focus on -February 2005 -improved assessment onwards summative assessments on planner -make `inquiries -December 2004 -feedback and into:' less objective onwards strategies from oriented and more staff member sent concept oriented to Project Zero, -practice sessions March/April 2005 summer 2005 on `backward onwards design' applied to the Central Idea, teacher questions and Inquiries hito Name PYP 1) Use the skills of 1) Aug. 2004 Head of School 1) Tasks and in- Coordinator- experienced house training different from practitioners and shared Head of School share tasks 2) Name 2) Jan. 2005 HOS 2) Coordinator Coordinator with (named: becomes named and budget 50% release time effective August approved 2005) Consultation visit Follow IBO Nov. 22-23, 2004 Head of -Visit held guidelines School/PYP -Progress report Coordinator scheduled signed -first Progress report due at end of Feb 2005 -Second Progress report sent at end of April 2005 -new goals set for Academy Hire additional Advertise: March 30, 2005 Head of School 1) applications overseas PYP 1) IBO jobs received practitioners 2) ECIS 2) Interview short list 3) Hired one new experienced PYP practitioner Improve library 1) More book fairs Feb. 2004 — Head of School 1) An additional and resources 2) Spend budgeted onward $24,200 in books money according to and library Program Of Inquiry resources allotted needs in Feb. 2005 3) Write grants 2) Subscribed to 4) Westlake video streaming Academy services in 2005 Foundation 3) Additional Book Fair held in April 2005. 4)Well stocked library including multimedia resources 5) Improved units of inquiry 6) Awarded additional grants Submit Application Gather Information May 31, 2005 Head of School Submitted & Part B approved Authorization 1) Follow all March 2006 Head of School/ School authorized recommendations PYP Coordinator in consultation report 2) Complete Progress reports 26l04/20UJ Position: , PYP Coordinator WESTLAKE A C A D E M Y Job Description The PYP Coordinator takes responsibility for ensuring that pedagogical aspects are discussed with teachers, staff and parents, information is disseminated and the program is planned, taught and assessed collaboratively. Fifty percent of the school week will be allocated to the position and the responsibilities outlined. The post holder will continue to teach part-time, job -sharing with another teacher. This will continue to be an opportunity to model best practice. Responsibilities: ■ Documentation: o Ensure that copies of the IBO publications are available to all staff members o Establish and maintain a record of completed planners o Publish the school's program of inquiry o Lead the process of developing and reviewing the school's scope and sequence documents, ensuring that the Texas TEKS are included o Coordinate the formulations for assessment policies and documents o Participate in the development and review of the school's strategic plan ■ Professional Development: o Ensure that staff are made aware of professional development opportunities o Make recommendations regarding training opportunities on and off campus o Keep a record of workshops and school visits o Assist teams in developing units of inquiry o Plan on campus professional development sessions ■ Resources: o Make recommendations for purchasing suitable resources to support the program o Identify local people and resources that can be used to support the program ■ Communication: o Set up systems for communication and collaboration among all staff members o Conduct parent information sessions o Prepare and submit any documentation required for authorization and evaluation o Respond to information requested by IBO o Communicate via the OCC and other forums to ensure a wider community of learners Position: Head of School WESTLAKE A C A D E M Y Job Description The Head of School will be an equal partner and full participant in the teaching -learning process of Westlake Academy. The Head of School will facilitate and oversee the implementation of the curriculum, the hiring, firing, training and policy development for the Academy. The Head of School reports to the Chief Executive Office and is ultimately responsible to the School Board. The Head of School has the following areas of responsibility and duties: • Establishes with the faculty the goals and objectives of the instructional program in accordance with school policy and in keeping with the stated philosophy of the school. • Develops with the staff the mission and school plan of action, based on identified vision of the school • Communicates and promotes high expectations for student performance in an enabling and supportive way; provides proper recognition of excellence and achievement • Assumes responsibility forthe overall administration of o Staffing _ o Initiation and preparation of budget proposal o Applications o Grants o International Baccalaureate Organization programs and implementations • Conducts and/or attends required o Training sessions o Agency and program development • Monitors all agency and program components • Coordinates and implements work at a professional and independent level • Assumes the responsibility for formulation and coordination of technical detail and phases of the planning and the operation of all agency programs • Remains cognizant of program and projects options as reflected in the monitoring and evaluation reports • Serves as public relations representative in fostering a cooperative relationship with the conlillull►ty. • Insures and/or prepares required internal/external proficiency report and statistical data within specific time frames. • Manage the day-to-day affairs of the school • IManage human resources of the school • tdentif} and plan for both short and long range goals WESTLAKE A C A D E M Y Position: School Counselor/Admin. Staff Hours: 7:45 am— 4:45 pm Job Description: The main responsibility of the School Counselor is to establish an effective, efficient role as an integral part of the Academy community, serving students as well as teachers and parents, emotional well-being as well as curricular strategies. As part of the Administrative staff, she will be in charge of testing and the dissemination of information to teachers as well as providing support where needed at other times in the office. The Counselor reports to the Head of School. Major responsibilities and tasks: - Establish a program for working with whole class groups at least once a month in order to provide children with skills needed for interpersonal relations, conflict resolution and decision making. - Maintain an open-door policy for students who need advice or assistance. Establish guidelines for students for visits to her office - Provide assistance to teachers on solving problems in the classroom - Provide assistance and advice to parents - Work with Special Ed. Coordinator to: Coordinate with teachers and/or parents to determine the need for Spec. Ed. testing/evaluation Set up and attend all ARDS Set up and maintain Spec. Ed. files Coordinate with outside sources and professionals for testing - Coordinate school wide testing, including scheduling and reporting - TAKS Coordinator - Serve on committees dealing with special services and programs (e.g. Gifted, Sex Education) - Lunch backup coverage in school office from 12:00 — 1:00 - Assist admin staff when necessary. It is understood that the schedule for this might be seasonal and will be accommodated to fit any testing schedules. WESTLAKE A C A D E M Y Special Needs Policy As an open enrolment public charter school, Westlake Academy is founded on the principle that all children have a right to have their educational needs met within a school setting. As far as possible, Westlake Academy will offer services to meet the needs of children with special talents and/or disabilities. At all times, the Academy will seek for inclusion as the model within the curriculum and by the school staff; at other times, the Academy will outsource special programs, usually within the confines of the Academy campus. When, given the size and make-up of the Academy, those needs cannot be met as well as at another institution, Westlake Academy will discuss with parents other options for their child's education. Students transferring to Westlake Academy with existing 504 (National Disabilities Act, encompassing dyslexic, ADD, ADHD or mildly physically disabled students) plans will be afforded the compensations and modifications specified within the existing plan. The annt;ac to ctwipntc n„alifvi„a for Special Fducation who Mill be afforded the same IEP (Individual Education Plan) in existence. Thrnn,ah initial diagnostic testing in the core areas of the curriculum and teacher records. the Academy will try to identify students with special needs. If the team of teachers, Head of School, Counselor and Special Education teacher ascertain that further cognitive, achievement or emotional/behavioral testing is needed, it will meet with the parents/guardians to explain and seek approval for testing. At no time will a student be tested without parental permission. If testing results show that the student qualifies for Special Education services or. 504 Accommodations, the team will meet with the parents tn dicr„cc those services/accommodations before setting them in place. if testing shows that the student does not qualify under State and/or federal guidelines for special services, the Academy, nevertheless, will implement whatever action plan it deems necessary to further student learning and success. In providing programs, services and activities, Westlake Academy will first use those resources made available to all students. Inclusion within the regular classroom will be the goal. When individual instruction with a specialist is needed, services w`11 be provided. whenever possible. on campus and at specified. limited times to ensure the least restrictive environment. It is expected that every student at Westlake Academy will be afforded the instruction, resources and support to reach his/her maximum potential. Westlake Academy will do all it can to help teachers develop the skills and strategies for differentiating instruction within the regular classroom. This may be through providing options in assessment, providing for different learning styles within assignments, developing and catering for the multiple intelligences that students bring to the classroom. Students identified with exceptional abilities above and beyond the expected at grade IeveI School policy will be to seek to accommodate these exceptional students within the classroom through differentiated instruction. The Academy has a team comprised of parents, counselor, teachers and Head of School that is working towards further developing guidelines and policies that would assure that these students are being challenged to the maximum of their abilities while ensuring that their other emotional and social needs are also met. Students identified as needing accommodations under 504 Disabilities Act The Counselor will be responsible for informing all staff members who com'. in contact with the student who has an accommodation. Teachers must put into effect those accommodations within their classrooms. Students identified as Special Education Teachers will help develop the IEP with the Special Education teacher and will keep careful records to ensure that students are meeting the defined objectives within the specified time period and that the IEP will be modified as needed. Special Education students need to be challenged and also successful. Resource Room Westlake Academy will offer- the services of the Special Education teacher to all students who may need some extra support in academic areas. The Resource Room schedule will be posted. Westlake Academy Timetable Within the attached master timetable, please note the following: I. Major blocks of time in the classroom (those that are not assigned to specialist subjects) are used for'Units of Inquiry. 2. First period on Friday is Assembly period for PYP. These can be `Pod Assemblies' (maximum 3 grades to a pod) or whole section assemblies. 3. Kindergarten through Grade 2 uses early morning blocks for reading and language arts, as well as circle time. CTuesday Class Periods KA (Jammai) KB (Jacks) to (McNeely) 1 B (McGouoh) 2A (Shivers) 2B (Friesen) 3A (Austin) 38 (Schneider) 4A (Cooeland) 48 (Riche) 5A (Trahan) 59 (Srhmit7l RA (Mlsner.Rmilhl RR (nuNha.rahatai . I 1 1. . FLAG 8-8.10j.: 1st(8.10.8.55)1 I I I I iArt IStrinas PE (Yothers) IS Music I IPE IPE 2nd(8.55-9.40) Strings IPE (Yothers) I I I IPE IPE Isp I I Music BREAK(9.40.9.66) . . 3rd(9.55-10.40) PE I PE I Strip s I I Music I jArt I PE PE I Sp(Ura) 4th 10.40-11.25) Isp I IStrings I jArt I Music 5th(11.25-12.10 LUNCH(11.25.12.10) 11:00-11:30 Lunch - LunchlRecess 11'25. 12:25 Recess/Lunch 12;10.13:05, Recess on Soccer Field 12:10/Lunch'at 1235-13:00 6th(12.25-13.05) I Music I Isp 7th(13.05-13.50 Sp I Music I jArI I I PE(Yothers) BRE AK(13.50-14.00) Bth(14.00-14.45) PE S Ad 9th(14.45-15.45)1 I I IspPE IPE I I I I I Imusic Thursday L,..0 4A KA ht --I 10 1 In icw..orcl 9R 1PH. nl 3A (Auslin) 3R (Schneider) 4A (Cnneland) 4R !Riche) 5A (Trahanl 5R (Schmilz) 6A (Misner -Smith) 613 (Oudhe-Cahalel Friday r..___ r,_-:...,_ v n . �........�n v❑ . �orLel , e n,drnlaehd , A rMrrniinh) 9A rShiverml 911 (Friesenl 3A (Aualtn) 3R (Schneiderl 4A (Cooelandl 46 Michel 5A (1 rahanl 5B (Schmitz) 6A (Misner-Smithl 69 (Ourihe-Cahale) _ FLAG(8.8.10 FLAG 8+8.10 t sl 8.10-8.55 1st 8.10.8.55 2nd(8.55.9.40) SP Strings I I Music I jArt(James 2nd(8.55-9.40)1 Mu I A ISIrings 3rd(9.55-10.40)S Isp I jArt(James) IPE IPE : 1 . , .. BREAK(9.40.9.55) 5th(11.25-12.10 3rd(9.55-10.40) I Sp LUNCH(11.25•i2.10) 11:00.11:30 Lunch Strings Recess/Lunch 12:10 -13:05; Recess on Soccer Field 12:10(Lunch at 1235.13:00` IPE 4th 10.40-11.25 S PE Strings PE Sp I jArt(James) 51h(11.25.12.10 BREAK 13.50.14.00 8th(14.00-14.45 Sp 20 min Sp 20 min LUNCH(11.25.12.10) 11:00.11:30 Lunch 9th(14.45.15.45)1 LunchTRecess 11:25.12:25 I I Art Recess/Lunch 12:10 -13:05; Recess on Soccer Field 12:10/Lunch at 1236-13:00 ' 6th 12.25.13.05 Sp Music PE PE(Yolhers) 7th(13.05-13.50) I PE IPE I Isp I Imusic BREAK 13.50-14.00) 61h(14.00-14.45 Music PE S PE 91h(14.45-15.45 I I I I I IPE I I IPE I I IspMusic Friday r..___ r,_-:...,_ v n . �........�n v❑ . �orLel , e n,drnlaehd , A rMrrniinh) 9A rShiverml 911 (Friesenl 3A (Aualtn) 3R (Schneiderl 4A (Cooelandl 46 Michel 5A (1 rahanl 5B (Schmitz) 6A (Misner-Smithl 69 (Ourihe-Cahale) Art for G5-8 James Sp. for G6.8 is Lira _ FLAG(8.8.10 t sl 8.10-8.55 2nd(8.55.9.40) SP BREAK(9.40.9.55) 3rd(9.55-10.40)S 4th(10.40.11.25) Sp Sp(Lira) 5th(11.25-12.10 Sp(Lira) Art LUNCH(11.25•i2.10) 11:00.11:30 Lunch Lunch(Recess 11:25 =12:25 Recess/Lunch 12:10 -13:05; Recess on Soccer Field 12:10(Lunch at 1235.13:00` 6th(12.25-13.05 S PE 71h(13.05-13.50 SP BREAK 13.50.14.00 8th(14.00-14.45 Sp 20 min Sp 20 min PE IPE 9th(14.45.15.45)1 I I Isp I I Art Art for G5-8 James Sp. for G6.8 is Lira Assessment ` We value what we assess. It is time we began assessing what we value. ' - Grant Wiggins, 1989 Westlake Academy believes that assessment is an integral part of the teaching and learning process. It is not something tacked on at the end of a unit; it is not just a series of tests with grades; it is not just a measure of student understanding. It is and should be a continual collaborative process to promote student learning. So why do we assess and what does assessment look like? Assessment Assessment is the gathering and analysis of information about student performance. It measures student accomplishment against known goals and criteria. Students should be aware of those and, whenever possible, be an integral part of formulating them. It differs from `evaluation' in that it seeks to establish the student's strengths and weaknesses without necessarily assigning a grade. Purposes of Assessment The Purpose of Assessment: the general overriding principle for assessment is that it promotes student learning, provides standards and communicates results. Westlake Academy shall ensure that assessment encompasses all the IBO frameworks and also the State of Texas TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills) and TAKS ( Texas Assessments of Knowledge and Skills). Specific purposes: • It provides feedback to the student o Feedback includes teacher questions and comments (oral and/or written) that will lead the student to reaching a higher level of thinking and communication. o Feedback should include peer assessment, given through a pre -established set of criteria, whether that be a rubric, a checklist or an established procedure. • It helps teachers define what they wish students to achieve o Teachers should begin to think like an assessor, establishing, a priori, criteria for evidence of student understanding. o Teachers should use a constructivist methodology that will allow students to work through misunderstandings and gain the skills and knowledge that will afford them the opportunity to adapt what is known to the unknown. o Teachers should gain experience in providing performance tasks that will allow the student to generalize and use knowledge and skills in a new way. o Teachers should make use of their knowledge of differentiation, multiple intelligences and different learning styles when designing instructional work. 0 Provides teachers with ways of recognizing student talents in diverse ways o Through student questions and wonderings, the units should reflect the inquiries of the students. o Performance tasks should contain opportunities for student choice in the manner in which understanding is explored and communicated. • Helps students monitor their own work, reflect on it, learn from feedback and surpass their own efforts. o Use of student portfolio and the guidelines that have been established by the staff, is one way to involve students in reflection. o Self assessment should be employed at each stage of the learning cycle and should include appraising growth in the Learner Profile traits, in transdisciplinary skills and the attitudes as well as group work and individual pieces. o Student led conferences will be held at least once a year and students should be able to communicate their reflections and later assess the outcome of the conference. • It can help improve teaching, curriculum or program design o After each unit, teachers should engage in a thorough assessment of the unit to improve and amend learning experiences for the following units and years. o Through the portfolio process, teachers should feed back into the learning community lessons learned. o Through the Teacher Self Appraisal, teachers should set their own goals for improving their own teaching as well as enriching the program. What does assessment look like? • It is diagnostic. Diagnostic assessment helps us to know what a student brings to the unit, the student's prior knowledge. It helps us to design student activities and goals. • It is formative. It provides feedback to students and teachers on the acquisition of necessary skills or content. • It is summative. It provides opportunities for students to use newly acquired skills, concepts and knowledge in new situations. • It provides for different intelligences and/or learning styles. • It provides performance based tasks. You know you know something when you can do it. • It is criteria based. • Students know expectations and what good work looks like. • It uses a variety of strategies o Observations o Open-ended questions o Performance assessments o Student communication through drawings, artifacts, actions, role plays, concept mapping as well as writing o Process assessments o Selected responses o Open-ended tasks o Portfolios • It uses a variety of tools, chosen to make the strategies employed o Rubrics o Exemplars o Checklists o Anecdotal records o Continuums What do we assess? • Students' prior knowledge • Concepts • Knowledge • Attitudes • Units of Inquiry • The development of transdisciplinary skills • The development of the IB Learner Profile • The development of the student over time, through a Portfolio of Work • The development of the student over time, through an Exhibition of Work Reporting Westlake Academy will communicate to students, parents, the school community and other educational authorities in a number of ways, each designed to: 1, improve student performance 2. reflect the philosophy of the Academy and the IBO. 3. include the participation of the student. Every six weeks the Academy will send home a report on student progress: • Weeks 6, 18 and 30 there will be a Progress Report. This report (now in its second, draft version) will be a relatively simple checklist. • Weeks 12, 24 and 36 there will be a full Report Card with detailed teacher comments on strengths and targets within each of the defined areas. These reports are done on-line. There will be two individual parent conferences in the year, one in the fall term and one in the spring term. At least one of these conferences will be a student -led conference. The Student Portfolio will also be used as a reporting tool. • Students will be involved with selecting what goes into the portfolio and appraising the reasons for the selection • Teachers will use the portfolio as a means of discussing progress with the individual student and with parents • Students will use the portfolio as the primary means of discussing their work in student led conferences DRAFT: Portfolio Policy A Portfolio is an `exhibition of an active mind at work'. (PYP: Making itHappen) A Portfolio is a collection of work designed to demonstrate: • Successes • Growth • Higher Order Thinking • Creativity • Reflection Portfolios demonstrate the student's ability to: • Solve complex problems • Analyze information • Synthesize information • Demonstrate a body of knowledge The learning environment at Westlake Academy is not a passive experience for the student, but an active, relative, and personal one. This environment, which focuses on active learning, benefits the student with a deeper, broader learning experience and greater knowledge retention. Being an active participant in the portfolio process yields the same outcome. Active portfolio participation teaches students to be managers of information, a life skill in today's society where there is an abundance of information which rapidly changes. Through active participation, students gain a sense of personal responsibility; they become motivated to invest more into the learning process. Criteria for choosing items included in the portfolio are determined by mutual accord between the student and the teacher. If a student has strong feelings about not including an item, it should not be included. Solicit Student Work from: o Writing o Math o Reading o Units of Inquiry o Additional: PSE, Science, Social Studies, PE, Spanish, Arts o Consider sub -categories for Kindergarten Portfolio Item Record: A summary description of the piece often gives the most insight into the value of the piece and reason for selection by including the following: o The instructional goals o The expectation of the assignment/project o The circumstances of the assignment/project 4 Guiding questions for the teacher: o What have I observed and learned about the student and/or the learning process of the student that I want to acknowledge and utilize another day? o What does the information in the item tell me about the student's development? Guiding Questions for the Student: o What have I learned from this piece/project that I want to remember and use another day? Goal: 1-2 pieces per subject area. Because the portfolio is a long-term collection of student work, formatting and storage quickly become issues. We must utilize technology to help with storage. During the year, before final selections are made, portfolios must be accessible for students and teachers. We will use portable file boxes with see-through folders for easy access. Subject Period Stren the and Targets 1 2 3 j� Jordan has been able to talk and listen with Language Arts ! A,, $ A confidence in an increasing range of contexts. Her talk is adapted to the purpose: developing ideas ++ thoughtfully, describing events and conveying her Oral Communication +- Reading with Comprehension ++ + ++ opinions clearly. In discussion she nearly always Writin + ! + + listens carefully, making contributions and asking + questions that are responsive to others' ideas and views. This is an area of strength for Jordan. SP elfing ( + Jordan enjoys reading and it is also a strength of hers. She is able to respond to a range of texts and can retrieve and collate information from a range of sources as evidenced when she was researching her Texas timeline. She needs to continue to collect new words so that she can experiment more with them orally and in her writing. In writing, Jordan has started to develop a range of forms and her writing is lively and thoughtful. as (III she showed by the animal report that she wrote. I She is becoming more able to organize her writing appropriately but still needs reminders to ! aid her in this. With editing she can remedy confusing sentences and re- order her text appropriately, as she did with her math game instructions. Her punctuation is generally good extending to the use of commas. She now needs to develop grammatically complex sentences that extend meaning. Jordan continues to develop her style. She is very motivated in class. She has developed more detailed plans for her writing. Jordan likes to experiment with word choices. She uses adjectives and adverbs and can add powerful verbs in order to add impact. Occasionally she changes verb tense where it is inappropriate to do ii so and should watch for this! Jordan's writing is I usually well- structured and shows imagination whether she is writing about a near death experience in her childhood or a favorite hobby. (� She needs to ensure that she writes in paragraphs consistently as she sometimes forgets although i understands how to incorporate them when she redrafts. Jordan can edit her work and redraft it showing a good understanding of punctuation, including brackets and speech marks. Jordan has shown a sound comprehension of the texts read this term. In oral work she needs to work at consistently expressing her ideas clearly and logically as she sometimes has difficulty when explaining a point of view or reason. J Jordan continues to speak clearly and convincingly on a ramp nftn,,;,. ;,, i,,,... oL- Grade: 04 Sub `eet Period Strengths and Targets 1 2 3 now needs to develop her confidence when presenting her findings to larger groups. While she is happy to do this and enjoys sharing, she needs to consistently slow down to consider her listener's questions carefully before she moves on. i Jordan's comprehension of sometimesuite hard q I texts has developed. She continues to check new vocabulary and should continue to do this and also experiment with new words more in her writing. Jordan has worked hard at her writing and there has been improvement. She understands the need to revise and edit her work so that it is clear. She needs to continue to focus on how she I can elaborate or explain a point in more detail where necessary but I am very pleased with her } } I progress. I Jordan has worked hard at math this term. Once Math g A A more she enjoys the support of group work where she can check her understanding with others. Numeracy + �} Jordan can multiply and divide whole numbers by Measurement NIA N/A + 1.0 or 100. She is developing a range of mental methods of computation for the four operations including mental recall of multiplication facts up to 1.0x10 and the corresponding division facts. She uses efficient written methods of short Geometry N/A ++ N/A Data Handling + N/A + Problem Solving ++ multiplication and division. She can order j decimals to two places and has begun to add and ( subtract them. When solving problems she now needs to check the reasonableness of her results by reference to her knowledge of the context or to the size of the numbers. In data handling Jordan can group data and represent it and interpret it i using simple graphs and diagrams. Her overall progress is good and she is notably motivated in I I class activities. lJordan has explored solids, polygons and triangles and is able to identify and name and explain these according to their properties ably. Jordan has also explored quadrilaterals, perimeter, area and volume. Her assessments show a sound understanding of these elements. Jordan works well in math and likes to work individually or in I groups. She still needs to become even more of an inquirer when presented with open. -ended investigations, puzzles or problem solving activities as she can lose confidence quickly in this area. I think with practices she will become more confident and enjoy these sorts of exercises though! Good, steady progress. Jordan has been able to develop his own strategies for solving problems and has used these Grade: 04 SuNect Period Strengths and Targets strategies both in working within mathematics I and in applying mathematics to practical contexts. She can present infon-nation and results in a clear I and organised way. Jordan has been able to convert one measurement unit to another. She can make sensible estimates of a range of measures in I relation to everyday. situations. Very good i progress. Grade: 04 Subject i Period z z 3 Strengths and Targets Jordan has enjoyed learning about Texas and has Social Studies B; A A� produced some informative work demonstrating a p g ? growing knowledge of its history. She has written ' and talked about some of the main events, people and changes in Texas history. She needs to ensure that written responses are well structured and that I she uses more than one source to gain -a picture of the period she is studying. In social studies Jordan has made some good contributions to class discussions. She has been able to see the various perspectives that are ( involved in issues of importance in the world. She has worked hard with her research skills Jordan, can record the data she collects in a variety of different ways which might include describing i and recording observations, drawing, note -taking, making charts, tallying and writing statements. Jordan is becoming more adept when organizing, sorting and categorizing the information she finds. The forms she uses are usually narrative descriptions or diagrams. ( i Jordan's work has been of a very ry good standard this term. She demonstrated a good understanding of the central ideas in natural disasters, children's rights and pollution, the units that were covered this term. She was able to make connections between the different challenges children are l facing across the world, understanding that one often impacts another. She was able to understand the responsibility different people have and take toward these challenges. Jordan's inquiries were relevant and developed her understanding further. In discussions Jordan has been confident and open minded. Excellent! Jordan worked well during the inquiry. She was Science B A A able to respond to suggestions and. put forward her own ideas about how to answer a question. Jordan researched using simple text references I online. She made relevant observations during experiments, recording her observations and j providing explanations for these. She now needs to further relate her conclusions to experiments performed to her current scientific knowledge and understanding, communicating with appropriate scientific language. She should also suggest I improvements to her work, both research and experimentation, giving reasons. Jordan did plentiful research for her fantasy animal and produced a very good report on the skeletal and muscular system of the `cabat'. She Grade: 04 Subject Period Stren hs and Tar ets 1 2 3 showed a good application of the knowledge and skills she had gathered over the course of the terin! She included clear and thorough ' explanation of how the bones and muscles enabled the cabal to move and coordinate itself. In this project she showed a very good understanding and application of her learning! Jordan recognises that scientific ideas are based on evidence. In her own investigative work, she j can decide on an appropriate approach for example, using a fair test to answer a question. Where appropriate, Jordan describes, or show in the way she performs her task, hew to vary one I I factor while keeping others the same. Where appropriate, she is able to make predictions. She can select information from sources and select suitable equipment and make a series of observations and measurements that are adequate for the task. Jordan is able to relate her conclusions to these patterns and to scientific knowledge and understanding, and to communicate them with appropriate scientific language. Jordan suggests improvements in her work, giving reasons. Good progress. Grade: 04 Subject Period Strengths and Tar ets j 1 z 3 I Jordan listens and participates well in class. Her Spanish A A A effort is evident. She has worked very hard this year to catch up with her peers. I am very proud of her. !Muy Bien! !Excelente! Jordan exceeds my expectations. I f am very proud of her this year. Excellent Spanish dancer. Is willing to practice regularly and has taken Music A A, � A every opportunity to use talents purposefully. Has shown a lively interest in music from various times, places and cultures. Listens carefully, thoughtfully and attentively. Jordan has excelled in learning to play recorder. She has learned songs of increasing difficulty at a very rapid pace. Jordan has shown great enthusiasm in combining music with theatre arts. She is a very expressive erformer. Jordan is always trying to do her best. She is .Physical Education A. A A � ready to participate and enjoys games and activities. Principled: is honest, makes good decisions, is responsible, uses own ideas, works on her own, plays fairly, does the right thing even when no one is looking, has a sound grasp of the principles of moral reasoning, has a sense of fairness and justice Co-operates well with other children when playing in a group or team Uses :highly developed tactical skills to good effect in games. Has an enthusiastic approach and works confident) in ames lessons, j Is enthusiastic in approach and demonstrates a Art A A A flair for creative work. f Needs to snake more detailed observations when i drawing and painting. A A A --- khtHand SlaW i + ++ ++ kill N/A ++ ++ Musical Accuracy ++ ++ �+ Playing Position ++ ++ ++ Practice E ort ++ ++ ++ Grade: 04 Suwect Period Strengths and Targets 1 2 1 3 Citizenship ++ Grade: 04 Student Profile: PYP—Comments The PYP Student Profile describes the overall development of the student — academic, social, physical and emotional. The general comments are written in the context of the profile that appears on page 1. Teacher Comments: Jordan has been an inquiring and reflective student this term. She loves to learn and has become more confident in her own abilities. Jordan is conscientious and well motivated in class. She is happy to discuss ideas and benefits from positive feedback from others but has also become more responsive to constructive criticism that will help her improve her work. -Jordan is able to justify opinions and argue clearly as to why she believes something to be true. She seems to now realize that making mistakes can be a positive step on the road to learning more. Jordan is an able student who I believe has lots of potential and I look forward to watching her develop it! Jordan has worked well this term. She continues to use feedback and apply suggestions and class models to her work which helps her to structure it and improve it! Jordan continues to enjoy inquiry and can ask conceptual questions in order to understand better She shows a natural curiosity and enjoys wondering and is confident enough to take risks in the types of questions she asks. Jordan shows commitment. 4t Jordan has made very good progress over this last term. Jordan's research skills remain of a high standard. Jordan's self management and social skills also continue to be a strength. Jordan has managed to work cooperatively, even with those she does not get on well with. She has been assertive but fair and sought to deal with minor conflicts independently wherever possible. Jordan will be an asset to any class. I have enjoyed teaching Jordan and know that she will succeed in fifth grade! Best wishes for next year! Student Comments: I was an inquirer by looking up my information on the computer and asking questions when we did our bone report and when I was looking up if there were any other states which had their own president. I was a thinker by accepting a really hard challenge from Ms Bowie. I was a communicator when I spoke Spanish. I also express my thoughts using body language. I was a risk- taker when I had my first Spanish lesson because I had never been to one before and I had to try lots of new pronounciations in front of the class. I wasn't afraid to express my views when we were making castles. I was knowledgeable when we were working on flags with Mr Jenkins. I learned that I was Swedish, French and German. I also learned that I had a grandpa in WWI and WWII. I'm principled when I'm kind and helpful to other people. I always tell the truth even though I might get into trouble. I was caring when two second grade boys were doing a project and I helped them gather their papers when they blew away. I am open- minded when we explore different cultures in spanish. I respect Mrs Jackson's culture. I have been well- balanced by eating correctly, exercizing and through brain exercize. I have been reflective when I get into trouble and I sit down and think about what I have done wrong. Transdisciplinary Skills These continuums mark the stage the student has reached at this point in time. Research Skills The student can: • Formulate questions Record data • Observe Relevant details Organize data • Plan a course of action Interpret data • Collect Data from a variety of sources • Pra4ant 'a-, Thinking Skills The student can: • Acquire knowledge through facts, ideas and remembering • Comprehend meaning and communicate and interpret learning • Apply knowledge in new or practical ways The student can: • Listen to directions and others 'r. • Speak clearly and logically • Read a variety of sources and • Synthesize by combining parts to create wholes • Evaluate based on criteria • Use dialectical thought, being able to think about more than one point of view • Apply meta cognition and self-analysis Communication Skills • Write to record, summarize, and report • Use non-verbal communication and recognize its value The student: Self management Skills • Exhibits gross motor skills • Exhibits fine motor • skills • Has adequate spatial awareness Can plan and execute activities in an organized • Can manage time effectively and appropriately manner • Engages in safe behavior which avoids placing Applies our code of conduct oneself or others in danger a Can make informed choices based on fact or opinion • Makes choices leading to a healthy lifestyle The student can: Social Skills • Accept responsibility and take on and complete • tasks Resolve conflict by listening, compromising and • Respect others and recognize that their beliefs and • being fair Work t ideas may differ from one's own owards group decision making by listening to • • others, discussing ideas and asking questions Work cooperatively, sharing and taking turns Can adopt a variety of group roles, understanding what hPhavinr is 10 Grade: 04 Subject Period Strengths and Targets 1 2 3 You express your ideas, opinions and feelings Language Arts A A A clearly in well structured written work. You also enjoy talking about a wide variet=y of interests and ask and answer questions readily. You are a very good writer who is able to present and develop creative and interesting ideas in a very coherent and fluent way. You are able to use Oral Communication '-+ +' ++ ReadAng with Comprehension ++ Writing ++ ++ ++ Spelling + ++ ++ language precisely and skillfully in the context of higher level thinking and to be confident when using both oral and written language You are a very good communicator. You are a very confident communicator. You are able to express yourself in a very precise way in both written and oral language. You have developed the necessary skills to express your ideas and present them efficiently. You are a profound thinker and a very good Math A A A communicator who needs to take the necessary time to grasp the different mathematical concepts without feeling anxious. --- You are participating very well in Math class. You are thinking and completing many multistep problems successfully. (MS) Your understanding of Math concepts studied is Numeracy y` + + !Measurement N/A + + Geometry N/A + + Data Handling N/A + + Problem Solving ++ ++ + very good. You participate in class very actively, and make conjectures about various math atterns. MS Grade: 06 Subject Period Strengths and Targets ] 2 3 You have shown a sound knowledge and Social Studies A A A, understanding of the topics studied. You are always eager to explore anis learn about other cultures and ways of living. You are responsible, active and independent: when working on this area. You have shown a deep interest in the subject You enjoy and show great commitment to the learning of it. You always make very good contributions to discussions about both national and international matters. Science A A A You show keen interest in this subject and are able to carry out experiments and record findings accurately. You have an inquiring mind and ase developing very meaningful as well as purposeful exploratory techniques. The different research projects that you have worked on are very clear examples of your commitment and deep comprehension of the subject. Well done! 1 Madison listens and participates well in class. Her performance exceeds expectations. Spanish A A A iMuy bien! !ExceIente! Music A A A Has shown a lively interest in music from various times, places and cultures. Gave an excellent presentation for our lar Physical Education JA IA IA ge project involving musical time periods. Madison was enthusiastic toward learning about heroes in music and travelling to the Dallas Symphony. Madison has excelled in playing the recorder. She has made steady progress in learning new songs Madison has improved her participation in class. She is ready to play games and share with the class.Way to go Maddie!Has an enthusiastic approach and works confidently in games lessons.Enjoys practicing and performing simple games skills. Co-operates well with other children when Playing in a group or team.Uses highly developed tactical skills to Food effect in games.Has an Grade: 06 Subject Period . Strengths and Targets 1 2 3 enthusiastic approach and works confidently in games lessons. Enjoys all aspects of this subject and works hard Art A A A, to produce good results. Expresses ideas in origiinal ways. Loves art class and ea erl artici ates. ;g. Grade: 06 Student Profile: PYP —Comments The PYP Student Profile describes the overall development of the student — academic, social, physical and emotional. The general comments are written in the context of the profile that appears on page 1. Teacher Comments: You are a natural inquirer who enjoys exploring and appreciating the wonder and beauty of the world and its people. You are a deep thinker who makes use of previously acquired knowledge in practical and new ways. You are a very good observer, who is curious and enjoys exploring new concepts and ideas. You are committed to your learning, persevering and showing self-discipline and responsibility. It has been a pleasure to have you in the class! Student Comments: My favorite subject is inquiry. I love how we get questions and get to do whatever we want with them. I do very well in inquiry because I get to use the creative side of my brain. I think I am sometimes bossy in group projects. I just realize that no one is doing something and I feel I have to take the job as leader. I see sometimes people don't like it _ and I am trying to change. In the category of classwork and homework I think I do very well. I have only forgotten one assignment and that was to have a parent sign a math quiz. So, in that area I have never forgotten to do an actual piece of work that required real work. In class I am dedicated to learning and remembering new things.One of the attitudes I think I am most like is independence. I always prefer to work alone rather that in a group. Sometimes this might be a problem, but along the year I have learned to tolerate people more and to get along. After a while if someone does not work, I tell them to start working. This year I have learned many, many good life skills. One of the best I think is to never give up. When Math was really confusing, and I did not get what others did,1 wanted to give up. But the teachers taught us that we should just keep on trying until we get it. Over the course of the year we had lots of homework at times and I just wanted to locate to a different school, but then the teachers had a talk with us about responsibility. I learned that when times are tough, you just keep going.I have developed as a well-balanced student. When we had lots of work to do either at school or at home, I would prioritize my work and get what had to be done, done. I had only forgotten my homework once, and I never forgot something after that. I always made sure I did not have too many activities after school and that I did not have too many friends over. I balanced my work in school to make sure I got straight As. I wanted to do the best I could in school and balanced my work to do so. 4 Grade: 06 5 Transdisciplinary Skills These continuums mark the stage the student has reached at this paint in time. Research Skills The student can: • Formulate questions Record data • Observe Relevant details & Organize data • Plan a course of action • Interpret data • Collect Data from a variety of sources • Present rasan Thinking Skills The student can: • Acquire knowledge through facts, ideas and remembering • Comprehend meaning and communicate and interpret learning • Apply knowledge in new or practical ways • Analyze ideas, see relationshins The student can: • Listen to directions and others • Speak clearly and logically • Read a variety of sources and • Synthesize by combining parts to create wholes • Evaluate based on criteria • Use dialectical thought, being able to think about more than one point of view • Apply meta cognition and self-analysis Communication Skills • Write to record, summarize, and report • Use non-verbal communication and recognize its value Self -Management Skills The student: • Exhibits gross motor skills • Has adequate spatial awareness • Can manage time effectively and appropriately • Engages in safe behavior which avoids placing oneself or others in danger • Makes choices leading to a healthy lifestyle • Exhibits fine motor skills • Can plan and execute activities in an organized manner • Applies our code of conduct • Can make informed choices based on fact or opinion Social Skills The student can: • Accept responsibility and take on and complete a Resolve conflict by listening, compromising and tasks being fair • Respect others and recognize that their beliefs and ideas may differ from one's own Work towards group decision making by listening to • others, discussing ideas and asking questions Work cooperatively, sharing and taking turns Can adopt a variety of group roles, understanding Grade: 06 October 2014 ACADEMIC PROGRESS For this criod 'I lie sindc"is has acquired 'MIC student is 'I hC student his nut yet the skills, concepts and developing the skills, acquired all ur sume skills, knowledge cxl)cctcd and has demonstrated concepts and knowledge and is winking towards concepts and knowledge and an practical applicaliuu applying Ihcnl in new action plan is being implememed. situations WESTLAKE A C A t) E All Y Progress Report SUBJECTS Language /\rts Mathematics Social Saidies Science Spanish Art Music Physical Education Student: Teacher Ms. Ourthe-Cabale 'I Ile student is highly ntulivatcd and always docs the necessary work individually and in groups to the hest ui'his of her ability. I le/she can lidlnw instructions and schnul rules ATTITUDE. For this period 'I lie sludcnt is developing a positive attitude to Icarmng: responsibility in lidlu%ving school rules and is acquiring the social skills Iu wurk well individually and/ or in gruups. Teacher Comment: YOU Q.fe CAt tlritajt -(� tC,lu1- LQ�r rcQA,, e -n re tm�..>i.,� leer On Loo r t� � t ti ��S.JO l f t h2- Gcar1:X 'W " Please complete this form and return it as soon as Possible. SIGNATURE: 1'I .EASI" PRINT NAIV1F: 1 he student has nut yet develuped: a positive attitude to learning. and/ nr respunsibiltty in tidluwing seluad rules. I le/she needs special attention to wurk wilt and/ ur in gruups. New Progress Reports will he used starting in the 2005-06 school year Student Interim Progress Report for Teacher Grade Language Academics: 1 2 3 4 5 Concepts & Knowledge Skills Attitudes: Works w/commitment & enthusiasm Cooperates in 2roups Works independently PE Academics: 1 2 3 4 5 Concepts & Knowledge Skills Attitudes: Works w/commitment & enthusiasm Cooperates in groups Works independently Teacher's comment for Unit of Inquiry: viuuc1 u a tai YUL. al IM Transdisci linar Skills: 1 2 3 4 5 Communication Research Thinking Social Self -Management ence WESTLAKE A C A D E M Y STAFF 1\10NEY ........................................................................................................................................................... 27 MORNINGACTIVITIES............................................................................................................................27 NEWSLETTERS............................................................................................................................................ 27 PARENT COMPLAINT PROCEDURES................................................................................................28 PARENT -TEACHER CONFERENCES..................................................................................................28 PARTIES.......................................................................................................................................................... 28 PERMISSION TO LEAVE SCHOOL......................................................................................................29 PETSIN THE CLASSROOTM ......:..............................................................................................................29 PERSONALEFFECTS.................................................................................................................................29 PHONECALLS.............................................................................................................................................29 PHOTOCOPYING........................................................................................................................................30 PORTFOLIOPOLICY.................................................................................................................................30 RAINY DAY/BAD WEATHER SCHEDULE.......................................................................................30 RECORDS....................................................................................................................................................... 31 RETENTIONS............................................................................................................................................... 31 SECURITY......................................................................................................................................................31 SMOKING......................................................................................................................................................32 SPELLINGPOLICY.....................................................................................................................................32 SPECLALNEEDS............................................................................................3� 2 STUDENTATI'ENDANCE.......................................................................................................................33 SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS - PREPARATION.....................................................................................34 SUPPLIES........................................................................................................................................................34 TARDINESS- STUDENTS........................................................................................................................35 TARDINESS - STAFF TELEPHONE- STUDENTS.....................................................................................................................35 TEXTBOOKS................................................................................................................................................. 35 TRUANCY....................................................................................................................................................... 35 UNAUTHORIZED I"TE,\1S AT SCHOOL..............................................................................................36 VOLUNTEERS..............................................................................................................................................36 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPIMENT...............................................................................36 WESTLAKE A C A D E M Y CLASSROOM AND SPECIAL AREA TEACHER JOB DESCRIPTION { Classroom teachers are responsible for the planning and teaching of all subjects included in the Westlake Academy curriculum. Special Area teachers, such as Art, P.E., Music, and Spanish are expected to be aware of the requirements of the curriculum and ensure effective communication kith all staff. All teachers will be expected to: Follow and iunplement the Westlake Academy curriculum, working alongside colleagues to review and develop the curriculum as appropriate. Promote the general progress and welfare of their students and ensure the discipline and safety of their classes. Provide for different learning styles and abilities within the class group. Provide individual learning programs required by all state and federal guidelines, including No Child Left Behind, for those students who haze not met the defined learning objectives by the end of the academic year. => Be familiar with school policies and procedures to ensure a cohesive school. =:> assess and keep accurate records of student progress and personal and social needs. 5 SCHOOLAIMS Iestlake Acadeny aims to provide a stimulating and caring atmosphere in which each student may er j y and find sail faction in his or her vorks, develop positive attrtrfdes, ac ph -e a se/Ise o_ f achievement and develop secorr idence and self-discipline. We aim: ■ To enlarge each student's experience, knowledge, imagination and understanding, thus enabling him or her to realize his or her potential for learning ■ To help students develop lively and inquiring minds, the ability to question, argue and develop ideas rationally and to apply themselves to tasks and physical skills To help students develop strategies for self-evaluation and to encourage them in a desire to strive for excellence in all areas of school life ■ To instill in each student a love of learning and an appreciation of learning as life long processes • To encourage students to cooperate with each other, to be sensitive to the needs of others and to develop respect for and understanding of other races, religions, and cultures ■ To help students develop the flexibility of approach and the linguistic and communication skills which will fit them for a rapidly changing world • To equip students to be sensitive to the needs of the environment ■ To encourage parents to take an active part in their students' education In effect, our aim is to develop the skills, concepts, attitudes and moral values necessary for each student to take lnis or her place in the world of the 21" Century as an active member of society and responsible contributor to it, capable of achieving as much independence as possible. ACCIDENTS If a student is injured or becomes sick during the school day, send or bring the child to the Health Office. In case of a serious injury, do not move the child until a paramedic determines the extent of the injury. Staff members involved in such a situation should stay with the injured child, call the Health Office or send a responsible student to report the accident, and wait for qualified personnel to arrive. Employees who observe an accident must fill out an accident report form. Except in emergency situations, students must have their teacher's permission and a written pass before coming to the office for any kind of first aid or medical attention. 7 Students: 1. Valk to and from the assembly area with your class in an orderly manner. 2. Enter quietly and sit with your class. 3. Listen quietly to the speaker/program. 4. Applaud only at appropriate tunes. Booing, screaming, or whistling is not acceptable at any school assembly. CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT All employees must report all suspected abuse and neglect cases to the Head of School and to Child Protective Services. Employees, by law, remain legally immune from civil or criminal liability as a result of any report, unless it is an act of malice. It is die school's responsibility to report evidence of child abuse and neglect to the appropriate authorities and to cooperate with them in their efforts to provide protective services. CLASSROOM APPEARANCE Classrooms should always be left in an order that leaves a favorable impression on the entire school community. Every effort should be made to maintain as neat a room as possible. The custodial service will clean each room daily, but at the end of the day teachers and students must: Clean off the tables and desks Pick up paper off die floor. Nlaultain general dusting. Straighten desks, tables, materials, etc. Erase and maintain the whiteboards. Secure loose materials from bulletin boards. Disinfectant (10% bleach water) should be used to wipe down hard surface general use areas at least weekly (more often during periods of widespread illness). Staff and students should do their best to keep the Westlake Academy campus in top form. Those who become physically involved in maintaining theappearance of their school take more pride in all aspects of their education. CLASSROOM AND PROFESSIONAL EXPECTATIONS Establish organized and consistent routines that will allow students to know and understand expectations and procedures E sharing are parts of an effective organization. Positive reinforcement and building on strengths work best with all people, not just children. Direct, honest, prompt communication is vital among peers, and especially to and from supervisors. CONFIDENTIALITY Any information regarding students and staff is held in strict confidence and should not be discussed with outside sources. School personnel must be extremely careful when discussing students, especially in areas such as the staff workroom or in areas where others are close enough to overhear. DISCIPLINE Discipline is the responsibility of all employees. Staff members must know the rules contained in the Parent/Student Handbook. This responsibility does not end with students assigned within a teacher's classroom. Staff members are asked to be aware of the behavior of all students on campus so that students learn that inappropriate behavior is not tolerated under any circumstances. Be sure to notify a homeroom teacher when a student has been disciplined. Communication is an important part of building an effective disciplinary team. Students should know and understand what is expected of them. Teachers are ad`-ised to begin the year with an organized set of goals designed to maintain an effective social and instructional environment throughout the year. Look for ways to build each student's self-image on a daily basis. Set an example for all students by exhibiting self-confidence and high personal standards. Students respond favorably to staff members who set high standards for students and maintain a high level of professionalism. Guidelines to Discipline: To be effective, discipline should begin the first day of school. Students should know what is expected of them. Physical punishment is not allowed. Request the assistance of another staff member or the Head of School immediately in the event the situation is about to become out of control. Communicate with the student's parents concerning discipline problems. Solicit their help and suggestions to bring expeditious resolutions. =:> Positive reinforcement approaches are more effective than resorting to negative consequences. =::> Parents are to be informed of expected classroom behaviors and consequences. 11 2. All members of the school community are to be treated with dignity and respect, especially persons in authority. 3. Responsible citizenship involves appropriate participation in the Westlake Academy school community. Each member accepts the responsibility to participate in a manner reflecting dignity and respect. 4. Positive reinforcement of good behavior and recognition of a job well done are the most effective means of promoting high standards of behavior and academic achievement. 5. The Westlake Academy does no employ corporal punishment and does not tolerate violent behavior. 6. The possession, use, or threatened use of any object to injure another or threaten the safety of the school gill not be tolerated. 7. Alcohol and illegal drugs are prohibited on school property, or during any school sponsored activity or event. 8. Disruptions of class impede student learning and teacher productivity. All members of the school community are responsible for maintaining a positive learning environment. f Roles and Responsibility School Board: Provides policy direction that ensures individual student opportunity, excellence, and accountability for the Westlake Academy school conumunity. The School Board «-ill: Develop policies that communicate and uniformly enforce the Westlake Academy Code of Conduct in a manner that ensures their commitment and support. Seek input from students, parents, and staff and review their policies regularly. Provide opportunities for staff to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain excellence. CEO: Under the direction of the School Board, takes a leadership role in policy research and analysis for the school. Responsibilities include supervision of Head of School and oversight of all school related finance, capital planning, and budgeting. Head of School: Under state compliance, the direction of the CEO and School Board, responsible for all daily operations of the school, including the luring, firing, training, curriculum development, enforcement of School Board policies and compliance of state and federal reporting guidelines. Develops annual budget to be submitted to the CEO, and then to Board for approval. Establishes 13 in cooperation, conflict resolution and decision making. The Counselor will also serve as a resource for students, staff and parents who seek advice about personal or curricular matters. In addition, the Counselor will oversee TAKS testing, evaluation testing, the setting of ARD meetings, and the coordination of outside services. DIFFERENTIATION Each student has the right to reach his or her potential. Westlake Academy is committed to guided inquiry which is structured in ways to use varying assessment methods and tools, and to address different learning styles and intelligences. These should be mirrored in lesson plans. A student's progress can often be enhanced by together creating an Action Plan that will help the student take ownership and become accountable for learning and/or behavior. Action Plan forms are available in the front office or on-line. DISPLAY The purpose of display is to: Create an attractive and stimulating learning environment Stimulate creative thought and discussion Focus attention on a learning theme Help students feel proud of their work and creativity Help set future goals for children's efforts Focus on the IB curriculum framework =:> Demonstrate to visitors the range and quality of xvork l,t-luich goes on at Westlake Academy if we want students to think and work creatively, it is our responsibility to surround them with a stimulating, aesthetic, creatively rich environment. Display needs to become an integral part of our teaching. As we plan the contents for each unit, we should also be looking for display opportunities. Display should be student -centered, not purely decorative; it should reflect what is going on in the classrooms. Some basic guidelines for display: Keel it simple. A few pieces of work, well displayed, with an eye-catching title and a brief explanation of the task, is often more effective than a crowded display showing everybody's work. It also provides good display without taking hours to prepare. 15 During the work day and anytime employees attend work-related activities or functions, including actio>ities or functions to which the school or school personnel or students are invited or in which they participate, employees shall appear in a professionally appropriate manner. Examples of professional attire include collared shirts, tailored slacks, dress coordinates, suits, and ties. Blue jeans are not appropriate unless designated administratively for specific circumstances. Specific Dress Standards Items that are not acceptable in the workplace or at work-related activities include the following: ■ Shorts (except for the P.E. teacher) ■ Sunglasses and/or hats (inside the building) ■ Rubber shoe thongs ("flip flops") or bedroom slippers ■ Athletic wear such as jogging suits (except for the P.E. teacher) ■ Overalls ■ Jeans ■ Excessively short skirts, skorts, and dresses • Revealing garments (midriffs, halter tops, tank tops, etc.) and those that inappropriately expose parts of the body. • Body piercing jewelhy other than earrings ■ Any other similarly inappropriate clothing, accessory, body adornment, etc., or x inappropriate grooming or hygiene. The Head of School is the authority and bears the responsibility for ensuring compliance with this policy. The Head of School has the authority to change dress requirements on a temporary or permanent basis as necessitated by the health, safety, discipline, eipit ale roip, educational, public relations, or other needs. In addition, the Head of School may deviate from this policy temporarily to meet the needs of the school for an appropriately specified purpose. Exceptions will be made in certain instances to accommodate special events. DRESS AND GROOMING - STUDENTS All staff members are responsible for ensuring that students are complying with the Uniform Policy as written in the Westlake Academy Parent/Student Handbook, as follows: UNIFORM POLICYI Appropriate dress and grooming contributes to a productive academic environment in whl ch students can focus on learning, develop an awareness of others, develop character and good i` 1 October, 2003 17 8. Trousers, skirts, culottes and shorts must be worn at dne waist.' 9. Shirts must be long enough to be tucked in.' 10. Hats or sunglasses are not permitted on campus without the Head of School's permission. 11. Girls in Grades 1 onwards, may wear, if desired, fitted, footed, white tights available from Parker Uniforms with their dress uniforms during the winter months.' Girls in Grades 1 — 5 may wear, if desired, fitted, footed, white tights available from Parker Uniforms with their casual uniforms during the winter months DRUGS, ALCOHOL, AND TOBACCO Westlake Academy maintains a zero tolerance policy for anyone who sells, gives, possesses, uses or is involved with or under the influence of narcotics, dangerous and illicit drugs, look-alike drugs, paraphernalia, alcohol or look-alike alcohol and tobacco products of any kind in or on the school property. Any student involved with such activity will be: =* Suspended from school and recommended to the School Board for expulsion Reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency for possible legal action as deemed necessary by the school administration. DUE PROCESS Students at Westlake Academy have rights. They also have the responsibility to conduct themselves appropriately. In disciplinary cases, each student is entitled to due process which means students: =:> Must be unformed of the accusations against them. => :Must have the opportunity to accept or deny the accusations. Aust have explained to them the factual basis for the accusation. Must have the chance to present an alternative factual position if the accusations are denied. DUTIES Staff members are required to take various duties on a rotating schedule. It is the responsibility of the staff member to be on duty promptly at the assigned tune. Proper supervision of students is imperative. If other meetings interfere with a duty on a particular day, it is the teacher's i 2 August, 2005 3 August, 2005 4 December, 2004 IM goodwill and flexibility are essential elements of professionalism in providing the best for the school community. FIELD TRIPS Field trips are an extension of the curriculum and are actively encouraged. They form a valuable learning experience as part of a well-planned curriculum. Staff suggestions for creative field trips are always welcomed. Planning a successful trip requires forward thinking and attention to detail. The following are general guidelines for field trips: 1. Find out as much detailed information about the event and/or location, which includes suitability for age group, price, times, and accommodations provided (parking, lunch, personal interaction, etc.) 2. all Field trips are subject to the availability of transportation. Refer to the school office for the list of those volunteers approved to assist with transportation. 3. a Field Trip Request Form must be submitted to the Head of School at least two weeks in advance of the date requested for the trip. 4. Changes in lunch orders for the date of the Field Trip must be reported to the office immediately following Field Trip approval from the Head of School. S. Once the Field Trip is approved, Field Trip Permission Slips can be sent home. These should be sent at least one week before the trip. 6. Students may not be taken off campus without signed permission slips. The office must be notified if children leave for any activity. alternate arrangements on campus must be made for those students not attending the Field Trip. 7. Students must follow all safety and courtesy rules. Teachers are expected to review these rules with students prior to leaving on any field trip. Rules are found on the Field Trip Request Form. FILMS, VIDEOS, AND GUEST SPEAKERS =:> Only "G" rated materials may be used. The Head of School may make exceptions. => The Head of School must be uiformed of all outside guest speakers, films, or videotapes used in the classroom before being scheduled. Audiovisual aides must have an educational purpose and should be used after careful planning. 4 Showing a video because it is available is not appropriate if it is not relevant to the learning goals and objectives currently being taught. 21 GRADING PERIODS AND REPORT CARDS Westlake Academy will send home six report cards during the year on the school day following the end of the six weeks listed below: Interim Progress Reports Issued at the end of the first six weeks Issued at the end of the second six weeks Issued at the end of the third six weeks HANDWRITING POLICY Report Cards Grading Period: Week 1 through 12 Grading Period: Week 13 through 24 Grading Period: Week 25 through 36 All teachers should help reinforce good quality handwriting skills in daily work. Best work offers a perfect opportunity for students to demonstrate their best handxvriting skills. Westlake Academy has established a Handwriting Policy using the D'Nealian style. First Grade: All students are encouraged to shape and form printed letters appropriately with the use of guidelines for best work. Second Grade: Correct letter formation and pencil control is reinforced. Neat handwriting on lined paper is encouraged. Cursive handwriting is introduced, and classroom signs are in both print and cursive. Third Grade: All students should be using cursive. Reinforcement skills lessons will be conducted for those students who still need help with letter formation. All rough drafts will be in pencil. Student's best -written work may be written ui pen (dark blue or black ink only) on lined paper or white paper using guidelines or on the computer. Fourth through Sixth Grades: Students should be writing ill fluid, legible cursive stl-le with correct sizing of ascenders and descenders. Best work should be written in pen (dark blue or black ink only) on lined paper or white paper unless specified differently by the faculty member using guidelines or on the computer. HOMEWORK Homework is a regular part of the acadenuc program. It has a threefold purpose in that it teaches students to be responsible; it extends the school day by providing students an opportunity to practice concepts learned in class; and it informs parents of what the child is studying in school. 23 LESSON PLANS The IB/P1'P Planner and designated I\nT will be the official record. Teachers may choose their own format for daily lesson plans. Copies of the Planners will be on the web. Copies of daily planners should be filed at the office and in the Substitute Folder. LETTERS TO PARENTS Newsletters and notes are sent to parents describing or announcing various activities and programs of the school. Teachers are responsible to see that all pamphlets, flyers, newsletters, and school information are given to students for them to take home to their parents on the day that they receive them. Teachers are encouraged to send their own newsletters and notes to parents. Most school information will be sent through electronic mail unless parents specifically request hard copies. The following checklist is to be followed: Check first with the Head of School to receive approval of extracurricular activities before any announcement is made. Proofread material for errors. Send all materials to the Front Office for double diecking `= before sending out. Make sure the material is well done; neat, legible meets legal requirements, and is accurately reproduced. Professional work is expected of all educators. Give one copy to the Head of School before it is sent home. LIABILITY Student Liabiliq: Students may be disciplined, suspended, or expelled for violations to the guidelines incorporated within the Code of Conduct. Parent Liability: Parents are liable for damage done to school property by their children. A student who defaces or otherwise damages any school property may be suspended or expelled from school. That student's parents will be charged for the cost of such damage. 25 MEDICATION Teachers are not authorized to give medication to students. The office will dispense all medications upon written request by parents and physicians. Request forms for giving medication at school are located in the Health Office. Any medication brought to school by a student must be left in the Health Office. MONEY Teachers are asked not to leave money in desks or unsecured elsewhere in the classroom at any time. Any money collected (school pictures, book orders, etc.) must be put in an envelope and either locked in a locking file in the classroom, or secured in the school office. No fund raising may occur at Westlake Academy. Under no circumstances may staff members sell items directly to students. Teachers may use book club services, realizing that proper accounting is required, and that missing orders and money becomes their responsibility. MORNING ACTIVITIES Teachers should begin the school day by being in the classroom at least fifteen minutes prior to the arrival of students to prepare student materials and activities. General morning activities include the entire school assembling together at 8:00 ANI at the flagpole. There we will raise the U.S. and Texas flags, say the pledges of allegiance and make general announcements. Each week a different class will be responsible for raising the flags. Teachers should take attendance at flag raising and a lunch count after flag raising. The Te-mis Pledge. Honor /be Texas flab. I pledge allegiance to thee. Texas, one and indimszble. NEWSLETTERS School newsletters are a vital communication link between school and home. Please let the office know of any special events, happenings, or honors that will be received. It is also important that the Head of School know of any special eN,cnts and accomplishments. 27 not permitted unless they are planned as private affairs, in which case the teacher or the school is in no way accountable. PERMISSION TO LEAVE SCHOOL The Head of School is the only person who can grant permission for a student to leave the school grounds during school hours. Permission will be granted in the following instances: In the event of an illness, the student is to be sent to the Health Office where a decision will be made whether or not to send the student home. Parents and the teacher will be notified. In special cases, parents may desire to take a student from school. These persons must obtain permission from the school office. Under no circumstances is a parent allowed to take a student from school without contacting the school office. Parents are to sign the student out in the school office prior to leaving the campus. If a student leaves school without permission, the teacher is to notify the school office immediately. PETS IN THE CLASSROOM ID•lany important things can be learned from animals, such as animal habits and responsibility for care and concern for animal life. Any animal kept in dne classroom is the responsibility, of the teacher and must be cared for properly. Adequate cages, appropriate food, consistent cleaning and care over weekends and holidays are concerns, -,vhich must be addressed when keeping an animal. The types of animals that can be safely kept are: non-poisonous reptiles, fish, birds, and small mammals such as hamsters and guinea pigs. Animals may be brought to school for short visits with the approval of the Head of School. PERSONAL EFFECTS Personal items such as radios, tape players, cell phones, furniture, machines, etc., are the responsibility of the owner if lost or stolen. Westlake Academy will not replace or repair damaged materials. PHONE CALLS Telephones are provided for each classroom and are to be used for school business only. Personal phone calls, whether by personal phones or school phones, made or received during 29 Students and staff will assemble in the Commons for flag raising and announcements. RECORDS Each teacher is to keep complete and up-to-date records. This includes either a class record book or computer driven system in which daily attendance and grades for each pupil are recorded. It is imperative that the attendance records turned in match exactly with the ones reported to the state and are subject to state audit. All records are kept on file at the school office at the end of each year. Each student has a cumulative (CUI D folder located in the school office in the Town Building. These records are on file for review and use as needed. Faculty members should make as much use of these records as possible. This is confidential material and should be treated as such at all tunes. The information contained in these folders is the responsibility of Westlake Academy. At no time are the CUM folders to be in a student's hands or left where unauthorized people can read them. Parents may have access to their child's folder only under the supervision of the Head of School. CURT files must never leave the school campus. RETENTIONS Retentions will be handled very carefully at Westlake Academy. Any possible retentions should be discussed with parents and the Head of School by the end of the first half of the school year. All meetings with the parents, other staff, and Head of School are to be documented. SECURITY Security is a priority at Westlake Academy and evei.T measure it taken to provide a safe and secure environment for the entire school community. Only authorized persons and students will be allowed on campus. All visitors must enter the campus facility through the front administrative offices, sign in, and wear the clearly visible visitor's badge at all tunes. Visitors include parents, volunteers, guest speakers, educational instructors, special invitees, and those previewing Westlake Academy for future attendance. In the event of a security emergency, all staff must follow the Emergency Procedures found in this manual. Additionally, it maybe necessary to secure the campus in a lock -down status. The staff is to insure the safety of all students by moving them quickly and calmly to a designated location, locking all doors, taking attendance, and remaining quiet until the "all clear" announcement has been made. Under no circumstances during a lock -down are students or staff to leave their designated locations, use the classroom phones, cell phones, computers, or other electronic devices unless instructed to do so. 31 The Academy employs a full-time Special Education teacher to provide inclusion, pullout or tutoring classes for our Special Education students. The Special Education teacher will lead ARD (Admission, Review and Dismissal) meetings and be a leading force in developing IEP programs for students with special needs. The Special Education teacher will also provide a weekly tutoring session, open to all students, in her Resource Center. The .academy will provide for out -sourced services required by students, including speech therapists. If more specialized therapists are needed than the .academy is able to reasonably secure, the Academy will inform parents of other options available to them within the geographical area. In all circumstances the .academy will follow State and Federal guidelines for written notice and consent, including all necessary parties in the IEP development and ARD meetings. STUDENT ATTENDANCE Attendance is to be taken by the classroom or special area teacher as the first order of business every morning. A student is considered tardy if s/he is not present by the time the state and US flags are raised at the daily flag ceremony. Attendance information is then to be given to the school office with an accurate record of who is present, absent, or tardy by 10:45 am daily. Each teacher is responsible for submitting an accurate attendance record to the office daily. Extreme care must be taken in reporting attendance, as this information constitutes a legal record. Any student who enters class after the attendance information has been reported to the school office must report to the office and then return to class with a late pass. On the third offense, those students will be counted absent for the day and will receive no credit for work done. However, students are responsible for doing allwork for the day. Attendance Guidelines: Texas State Law requires compulsory attendance for school age children. Students are expected to be in school except in cases of emergency or illness, as explained below: Personal Illness — Westlake Academy may require the certificate of a doctor if it is deemed advisable. It is the parent or guardian's responsibility to inform the school of an absence. A telephone call or note is required for all absences. => Illness in the family. Quarantine in the home - limited to the length of quarantine as fixed by proper health officials. =:> Death of a relative. Any other reason must be excused by the school in advance. 33 TARDINESS - STUDENTS Promptness to class is eery important. Students are to be in class on time, prepared, and ready to work. If a student arrives to school late, he or she must first report to the school office to be removed from the absentee list if arriving before 8:20 and receive a classroom pass. TARDINESS - STAFF If a staff member is arriving late to school, it is his/her responsibility to notify the school office so that another staff member can cover the class. TELEPHONE - STUDENTS Students must have teacher permission to use the phone. Students may use the phone to call for lunches or in case of emergency only. They may not call for homework, forgotten assignments, after school equipment, etc. Westlake Academy wants to build responsibility in all of our students. If a last minute need arises, the teacher should call the parent. TEXTBOOKS Teachers should include in their lessons adopted texts and approved supplementary materials. As an IB school we seek multiple tests, references and resources. They are also responsible for monitoring, controlling, and caring for all books assigned to their rooms. Teachers are responsible for making sure that all books, with the exception of workbooks, are numbered and stamped with the school name. Records must be kept of books assigned to each student. Students will be held responsible for the cost of repairing or replacing lost or damaged books. All other text materials, including school purchased classroom libraq books, need to be monitored and controlled, numbered and stamped with the school name. The teacher must maintain records of these materials. Any lost or damaged materials must be reported to the school office. TRUANCY Staff members should submit the name of any suspected truant to the Head of School. In the case of suspected truancy, an official from the school and/or law enforcement officials will conduct an investigation in the manner deemed necessary to determine if the student is being truant from the school. Truancy will be handled as a severe breach of the disciplinary code. 35 Mileage/gas reimbursement: The Academy uses the same rate as the Town of Westlake. Tlus is updated periodically to reflect price changes. Our limited professional development budget goes further if we all try to remain within stipulated guidelines. The Academy seeks to send each teacher to outside courses. When sent by the academy, teachers are required to report back by submitting a written report, including articles or other printed information that will be of use to other teachers. These will be stored in TE resource room. These teachers maybe asked to give a workshop for other members of staff. 37 Shipment Details m;. Please Note Your Packaging give to scheduled courier at my location 20 LBS OxOX0 50 USD 293191069 293191069 *83.62 0.00 Express Page 1 of l *The courtesy rate shown here may be different than the actual charges for your shipment. Differences may occur based on actual weight, dimensions, and other factors. Consult the applicable FedEx Service Guide or the FedEx Rate Sheets for details on how shipping charges are calculated. FedEx will not be responsible for any claim in excess of $100 per package, whether the result of loss, damage, delay, non-delivery, misdelivery, or misinformation, unless you declare a higher value, pay an additional charge, document your actual loss and file a timely claim. Limitations found in the current FedEx Service Guide apply. Your right to recover from FedEx for any loss, including intrinsic value of the package, loss of sales, income interest, profit, attorney's fees, costs, and other forms of damage whether direct, incidental, consequential, or special is limited to the greater of $100 or the authorized declared value. Recovery cannot exceed actual documented loss. Maximum for items of extraordinary value is $500, e.g., jewelry, precious metals, negotiable instruments and other items listed in our Service Guide. Written claims must be filed within strict time limits; Consult the applicable FedEx Service Guide for details. https:llwww.fedex. com/fsmHistorvIfE storvMainAction, do?method=doHistorvEntry&methodRedirect=D... 9/29/200 ,C< LoIR gout 1•#=.Sl< --------. ...._-. ...... Your Shipment Details: ............... Ship to: Maria Hersey Package Type: IBNA Pickup/Drop Off: 475 Riverside Dr. Weight: Suite 1600 Dimensions: New York, NY 10115 US Declared Value: 212-696-4464 Shipper Account Number: From: Darcy McFarlane Bill transportation to: Westlake Academy Courtesy Rate Quote 2600 Ottinger Rd Discounted variable % Westlake, TX 76262 Special Services: US 8174905757 Purpose: Tracking no: 791220485571 Shipment Type: Ship date: Sep 29 2005 Service Type: Standard Overnight m;. Please Note Your Packaging give to scheduled courier at my location 20 LBS OxOX0 50 USD 293191069 293191069 *83.62 0.00 Express Page 1 of l *The courtesy rate shown here may be different than the actual charges for your shipment. Differences may occur based on actual weight, dimensions, and other factors. Consult the applicable FedEx Service Guide or the FedEx Rate Sheets for details on how shipping charges are calculated. FedEx will not be responsible for any claim in excess of $100 per package, whether the result of loss, damage, delay, non-delivery, misdelivery, or misinformation, unless you declare a higher value, pay an additional charge, document your actual loss and file a timely claim. Limitations found in the current FedEx Service Guide apply. Your right to recover from FedEx for any loss, including intrinsic value of the package, loss of sales, income interest, profit, attorney's fees, costs, and other forms of damage whether direct, incidental, consequential, or special is limited to the greater of $100 or the authorized declared value. Recovery cannot exceed actual documented loss. Maximum for items of extraordinary value is $500, e.g., jewelry, precious metals, negotiable instruments and other items listed in our Service Guide. Written claims must be filed within strict time limits; Consult the applicable FedEx Service Guide for details. https:llwww.fedex. com/fsmHistorvIfE storvMainAction, do?method=doHistorvEntry&methodRedirect=D... 9/29/200 FedEx I Ship Manager I Label 7912 2048 5571 From`,' Origin ID: (817)490-5757 Darcy McFarlane Westlake Academy 2600 Ottinger Rd Westlake, TX 76262 [E] Cl3WFAS.99lti SHIPTO: (212)696-4464 BILL SENDER Maria Hersey IBNA 475 Riverside Dr, Suite 1600 New York, NY 10115 Ship Date: 29SEP05 Actual Wgt: 20 LB System#: 8626586.+INET2200 Account#: S —... ' V�IIIV�IIIII!IIIYIIIIIgIIIIIIYAI!111911111111 Delivery Address Bar Code sinNonxo ovEaxicxi FRI Deliver By: FORM 30SEP05 TRK# 7912 2048 557 0201 EWR A2 1015 NVVS NE CTOA Shipping Label: Your shipment is complete 1. Use the 'Print' feature from your browser to send this page to your laser or inkjet printer. Page 1 of 1 2. Fold the printed page along the horizontal line. 3. Place label in shipping pouch and affix it to your shipment so that the barcode portion of the label can be read and scanned. Warning: Use only the printed original label for shipping. Using a photocopy of this label for shipping purposes is fraudulent and could result in additional billing charges, along with the cancellation of your FedEx account number. Use of this system constitutes your agreement to the service conditions in the current FedEx Service Guide, available on fedex.com. FedEx will not be responsible for any claim in excess of $100 per package, whether the result of loss, damage, delay, non-delivery, misdelivery, or misinformation, unless you declare a higher value, pay an additional charge, document your actual loss and file a timely claim. Limitations found in the current FedEx Service Guide apply. Your right to recover from FedEx for any loss, including intrinsic value of the package, loss of sales, income interest, profit, attorney's fees, costs, and other forms of damage whether direct, incidental, consequential, or special is limited to the greater of $100 or the authorized declared value. Recovery cannot exceed actual documented loss. Maximum for items of extraordinary value is $500, e.g. jewelry, precious metals, negotiable instruments and other items listed in our Service Guide. Written claims must be filed within strict time limits, see current FedEx Service Guide. https://www.fedex.com/cgi-bin/ship it/unity/6AjZgOJhVs8FhQs5BaSgllcZr2IaTwlCbSszEEfQu7HfSuOE... 9/29/200`