HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-02-20 BOT Agenda Packet
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WESTLAKE ACADEMY BOARD OF TRUSTEE MEETING AGENDA
1500 SOLANA BLVD, BUILDING 7, SUITE 7100, COUNCIL CHAMBER
WESTLAKE, TX 76262
March 2, 2020
5:00 PM MEETING
Vision Statement
Westlake Academy inspires college bound students to achieve their highest individual potential in a nurturing
environment that fosters the traits found in the IB Learner Profile: Inquirers, Knowledgeable, Thinkers,
Communicators, Principled, Open-Minded, Caring, Risk-takers, Balanced and Reflective
Work Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. CITIZEN COMMENTS: This is an opportunity for citizens to address the Board on any
matter whether or not it is posted on the agenda. Any person desiring to make a public
comment must first be recognized by the presiding officer and sign in at the podium with
their name and address. Individual citizen comments are normally limited to three (3)
minutes; however, time limits can be adjusted by the presiding officer. The presiding officer
may ask the citizen to hold their comment on an agenda item if the item is posted as a
Public Hearing. The Board cannot by law take action nor have any discussion or deliberations
on any presentation made to the Board at this time concerning an item not listed on the
agenda. The Board will receive the information, ask staff to review the matter, or an item
may be noticed on a future agenda for deliberation or action.
4. REVIEW OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS LISTED ON THE REGULAR MEETING
AGENDA.
5. PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION ITEMS.
a. Presentation of the new Westlake Academy Virtual Tour Video – John Sasser and Kim
Gardner
b. Presentation and discussion of French International Trip - Dr. James Owen, Teri Watson,
Ingrid Thebault and Christine King
c. Presentation and discussion of Westlake Academy’s IB site visit - James Owen, Alison
Schneider, and Terri Watson
d. Presentation and discussion regarding Counseling Services - Dr. Mechelle Bryson, Carl
Tippen, Lisa Phillips, Sara DeRaud, and Lakshmi Morgan
6. BOARD RECAP / STAFF DIRECTION
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Regular Session will begin immediately following the Work Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ITEMS OF COMMUNITY INTEREST: President and Trustee Reports on Items of
Community Interest pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.0415 the Board of
Trustees may report on the following items: (1) expression of thanks, congratulations or
condolences; (2) information about holiday schedules; (3) recognition of individuals; (4)
reminders about upcoming Board of Trustee events; (5) information about community
events; and (6) announcements involving imminent threat to public health and safety.
3. CONSENT AGENDA: All items listed below are considered routine by the Board of Trustees
and will be enacted with one motion. There will be no separate discussion of items unless
a Board member or citizen so requests, in which event the item will be removed from the
general order of business and considered in its normal sequence.
a. Consider approval of the minutes from the meeting on February 3, 2020.
b. Consider approval of Resolution 20-02, Approving the trip to Canada regarding
French language immersion experience in Montreal.
4. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: Any Board member may request at a workshop and / or Board
meeting, under “Future Agenda Item Requests”, an agenda item for a future Board meeting.
The Board member making the request will contact the Superintendent with the requested
item and the Superintendent will list it on the agenda. At the meeting, the requesting Board
member will explain the item, the need for Board discussion of the item, the item’s
relationship to the Board’s strategic priorities, and the amount of estimated staff time
necessary to prepare for Board discussion. If the requesting Board member receives a
second, the Superintendent will place the item on the Board agenda calendar allowing for
adequate time for staff preparation on the agenda item.
5. ADJOURNMENT
ANY ITEM ON THIS POSTED AGENDA COULD BE DISCUSSED IN EXECUTIVE SESSION
AS LONG AS IT IS WITHIN ONE OF THE PERMITTED CATEGORIES UNDER SECTIONS
551.071 THROUGH 551.076 AND SECTION 551.087 OF THE TEXAS GOVERNMENT
CODE.
CERTIFICATION
I certify that the above notice was posted at the Town Hall of the Town of Westlake, 1500 Solana Blvd.,
Building 7, Suite 7100, Westlake, TX 76262, on February 28, 2020, by 5:00 p.m. under the Open Meetings
Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code.
_____________________________________
Todd Wood, Town Secretary
If you plan to attend this public meeting and have a disability that requires special needs or translation
services, please advise the Town Secretary 48 hours in advance at 817-490-5711 and reasonable
accommodations will be made to assist you.
Board of
Trustees
Item # 2 – Pledge of
Allegiance
Texas Pledge:
“Honor the Texas flag;
I pledge allegiance to
the, Texas, on state
under God, on and
indivisible.”
CITIZEN COMMENTS: This is an opportunity for citizens to address the Board on any
matter whether or not it is posted on the agenda. Any person desiring to make a public
comment must first be recognized by the presiding officer and sign in at the podium with
their name and address. Individual citizen comments are normally limited to three (3)
minutes; however, time limits can be adjusted by the presiding officer. The presiding
officer may ask the citizen to hold their comment on an agenda item if the item is posted
as a Public Hearing. The Board cannot by law take action nor have any discussion or
deliberations on any presentation made to the Board at this time concerning an item not
listed on the agenda. The Board will receive the information, ask staff to review the
matter, or an item may be noticed on a future agenda for deliberation or action.
Board of
Trustees
Item # 3 – Citizen
Comments
CONSENT AGENDA: All items listed below are considered routine by the Board of
Trustees and will be enacted with one motion. There will be no separate discussion of
items unless a Board member or citizen so requests, in which event the item will be
removed from the general order of business and considered in its normal sequence.
a. Consider approval of the minutes from the meeting on February 3, 2020.
b. Consider approval of Resolution 20-02, Approving the trip to Canada
regarding French language immersion experience in Montreal.
Board of
Trustees
Item # 4 – Consent
Agenda
DISCUSSION ITEMS
a.Presentation and discussion of the new Westlake Academy Virtual Tour
Video – John Sasser and Kim Gardner
b.Presentation and discussion of French International Trip - Dr. James
Owen, Teri Watson, Ingrid Thebault and Christine King
c.Presentation and discussion of Westlake Academy’s IB site visit - James
Owen, Alison Schneider, and Terri Watson
d.Presentation and discussion regarding Counseling Services - Dr. Mechelle
Bryson, Carl Tippen, Lisa Phillips, Sara DeRaud, and Lakshmi Morgan
Board of
Trustees
Item # 5 – Discussion
Items
estlake Academy Board of Trustees
TYPE OF ACTION
Regular Meeting - Consent
Westlake Board Meeting
Monday, March 02, 2020
TOPIC: Consider a Resolution approving the trip to Canada regarding French
language immersion experience in Montreal.
STAFF CONTACT: Dr. James Owen, Teri Watson, Christine King and Ingrid Thebault
Strategic Alignment
Vision, Value, Mission Perspective Curriculum Outcome
Objective
Vision: Westlake
Academy inspires
college bound
students to achieve
their highest
individual potential in
a nuturing
environment that
fosters the traits
found in the IB
Learner Profile.
Academic
Operations MYP / DP
Strengthen IB
Philosophy &
Implementation
Strategic Initiative
Outside the Scope of Identified Strategic Initiatives
Time Line - Start Date: March 2, 2020 Completion Date: Ongoing
Funding Amount: Ongoing Status - Funded Source - Self-funded
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY (INCLUDING APPLICABLE ORGANIZATIONAL HISTORY)
The world in which our students work, live and tweet require them to effectively communicate
with others around the world, to partner with them to collectively solve problems and to execute
these solutions in a way that demonstrates intercultural understanding and consideration of
different perspectives. As such, International Mindedness is the cornerstone of the IB mission.
Over the past six years, the Academy has placed an increased emphasis on strengthening the
international mindedness of stakeholders by creating partnerships with international schools and
providing Academy students language immersion learning experiences. Currently, we do not
have language immersion learning experiences for Westlake Academy’s students enrolled in
French.
In 2018, the Board of Trustees approved a trip to Quebec, however; the trip was cancelled due to
lack of student participation. The Academy still believes in the value of a French immersion
learning experience for our students and has begun plans for a trip in the spring semester 2021 to
Montreal, Canada.
According to Westlake Academy board policy 6.02, Board Parameters for School Sanctioned
Trips, “all international trips must adhere to all Westlake Academy Board Policies and
administrative procedures for school sanctioned trips. These school sanctioned trips may be
offered at various times throughout the year upon the recommendation of the Executive Director
and approval by the Board of Trustees”.
Westlake Academy’s Executive Director has reviewed the request to add a French language
immersion experience to Montreal and is seeking Board approval.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval
ATTACHMENTS
Resolution
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estlake Academy Board of Trustees
TYPE OF ACTION
Workshop - Discussion Item
Westlake Board Meeting
Monday, March 02, 2020
TOPIC: Presentation and Discussion Regarding IB Site Visit
STAFF CONTACT: James Owen, Alison Schneider, and Terri Watson
Strategic Alignment
Vision, Value, Mission Perspective Curriculum Outcome
Objective
Mission: Westlake
Academy is an IB World
School whose mission is to
provide students with an
internationally minded
education of the highest
quality, so they are well-
balanced life-long
learners.
Academic
Operations PYP / MYP / DP
Strengthen IB
Philosophy &
Implementation
Strategic Initiative
Outside the Scope of Identified Strategic Initiatives
Time Line - Start Date: January 7, 2019 Completion Date: March 6, 2020
Funding Amount: N/A Status - N/A Source - General Fund
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY (INCLUDING APPLICABLE ORGANIZATIONAL HISTORY)
Westlake Academy as an IB World School and IB continuum school has an obligation to follow the IB
framework and to create a rigorous learning environment grounded in the IB standards and practices. As
such, students engage in learning experiences that construct and deconstruct knowledge, extend learning
beyond the classroom walls and cultivate international mindedness through the IB learner profile. A
crucial element of the IB is the evaluation process. Every five years, IB schools are evaluated by the IBO.
Over the last 15 months, the Academy has conducted a year-long self-evaluation and has prepared for the
site visit. It is important to note that the Academy is participating in a continuum visit instead of three
separate evaluations processes. As such, all three programmes will be reviewed in tandem.
Our IB site visit is scheduled for March 4, 5, and 6, 2020.
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The purpose of this presentation is to inform the Board of Trustees of Westlake Academy’s IB site visit.
The presentation will review Westlake Academy’s self-evaluation process, explain the unique features of
a continuum site visit, share the site visit schedule, explain the Board of Trustees role, and answer any
questions of the Board of Trustees.
RECOMMENDATION
Seeking continued support of the Academy’s IB continuum.
ATTACHMENTS
None
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estlake Academy Board of Trustees
TYPE OF ACTION
Workshop - Discussion Item
Westlake Board Meeting
Monday, March 02, 2020
TOPIC: Presentation and Discussion Regarding Counseling Services
STAFF CONTACT: Carl Tippen, Lisa Phillips, Sara DeRaud, and Lakshmi Morgan
Strategic Alignment
Vision, Value, Mission Perspective Curriculum Outcome
Objective
Vision: Westlake Academy
inspires college bound
students to achieve their
highest individual
potential in a nuturing
environment that fosters
the traits found in the IB
Learner Profile.
Academic
Operations PYP / MYP / DP Optimize Student
Potential
Strategic Initiative
Outside the Scope of Identified Strategic Initiatives
Time Line - Start Date: August 1, 2019 Completion Date: Ongoing
Funding Amount: N/A Status - N/A Source - General Fund
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY (INCLUDING APPLICABLE ORGANIZATIONAL HISTORY)
Westlake Academy’s goal as an IB World School is to inspire college bound student to achieve their
highest individual potential in a nurturing environment that fosters the traits found in the IB Learner
Profile. In doing so, the primary goal of the school counseling program is to promote and enhance
learning through academic support, developmental responsiveness, and college and career readiness. In
doing so, our counselors provide the following services:
• Assist students in resolving academic issues;
• Assist students in developing skills to improve organization, study habits, and time management;
• Assist students in working through personal problems that affect academics and relationships;
• Assist students in improving social skills;
• Assist students in identifying college and career goals;
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• Assist students in coping with trauma; and
• Assist families in finding community resources.
The purpose of this presentation is to inform the Board of Trustees of Westlake Academy’s counseling
services. The presentation will review Westlake Academy’s counseling philosophy, counseling goals,
progress of the threat assessment team, implementation of the hope squad, and suicide prevention and
social emotion learning initiatives. In addition, connections to the IB framework and the Learner Profile
will be discussed.
RECOMMENDATION
Seeking continued support of the Academy’s counseling services.
ATTACHMENTS
None
BOARD RECAP / STAFF DIRECTION
Board of
Trustees
Item # 6 – Board Recap /
Staff Direction
ITEMS OF COMMUNITY INTEREST: Mayor and Council Reports
on Items of Community Interest pursuant to Texas Government
Code Section 551.0415 the Town Council may report on the
following items: (1) expression of thanks, congratulations or
condolences; (2) information about holiday schedules; (3)
recognition of individuals; (4) reminders about upcoming Town
Council events; (5) information about community events; and (6)
announcements involving imminent threat to public health and
safety.
Coffee & Conversation with the Mayor/Board President
Monday, March 2, 2020; 8:00 – 9:30 am
Westlake Fire-EMS Station No. 1, 2000 Dove Road (NW corner of Dove Rd. & Davis Blvd.)
-We hope our residents and business partners are enjoying this opportunity to visit our community’s new fire
station, have a cup of coffee or tea, and a chat with Mayor Laura Wheat about any and all things Westlake –
including Westlake Academy, too. No reservation needed – just come-and-go as your schedule allows!
Board of Trustees Work Session/Meeting
Monday, March 2, 2020*
Westlake Town Hall, Solana Terrace-Bldg.7, Suite 7100 - Council Chambers
International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) Site Visit at Westlake Academy
Monday, March 4 – Wednesday, March 6, 2020
-Evaluation now done every 5 years on all three IB Programmes by the governing IB Organization. Questions?
Contact Executive Director Dr. Mechelle Bryson via email or call at 817.490.5761
Metroport Chamber of Commerce 9th Annual Alliance Development Forum (ADF) Luncheon
Friday, March 6, 2020; 11:00 – 1:00 pm
-Join hundreds of developers, investors, site selectors, realtors, and other economic development leaders as they
network and learn more about this northeast Metroplex fast growing region. This year’s topic: Visionary Mobility:
The Future of Transportation in our Region. Keynote Speaker: Mike Berry, Hillwood President. For ticket pricing &
availability, please visit the Metroport Chamber website.
Westlake Academy CLOSED for Spring Break
Monday, March 9 – Friday, March 13, 2020
Westlake Academy Danish & Dialogue with School Leaders
Thursday, March 19, 2020; 8:00 am–9:00 am
WA Campus–Sam & Margaret Lee Fieldhouse Classroom
-Open to all Westlake & WA parents/grandparents: current and for those considering or wanting to learn more
about our community’s charter school. This month’s topic: College Readiness Data & Info Regarding Navigating the
College Selection Process - presented by College Counselor Carl Tippen.
Westlake Academy Open Tour for Primary Grades (K-5)
Thursday, March 19, 2019; 3:45 pm
Main Academy Entrance/Primary Years Office, 2600 J.T. Ottinger Road
-Been wondering about Westlake Academy and how your child might reach their highest potential there? If you are
a Westlake resident or live within one of our approved secondary boundaries, join us for a tour of our Secondary
grades campus this month. (Primary grades tour next month!) Your children are welcome to attend, and we ask
they be supervised by their parents during the tour. No need for reservations – just show up between 3:45 – 4:00
pm on this scheduled day. Questions? Contact Registrar Kim Gardner via email for more info.
Simply Westlake hosts Charity Connection event, along with Timarron’s Our Neighborhood Life
& the Starpower team
Wednesday, March 25, 2020; 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
Starpower, 1600 E. Southlake Blvd
-Join our Simply Westlake team as they invite Westlake & Timarron residents to this inaugural event as we gather to
learn more about volunteer and financial support opportunities, along with needs of our local charities. Each charity
will have their own display and representatives will be on hand to visit and answer questions about their
organization. For more information, email Connie Vernon-Chase to find out how you can attend & make an impact!
Board of
Trustees
Item # 2 – Items of
Community Interest
Town Council Work Session/Meeting
Monday, March 30, 2020*
Westlake Town Hall, Solana Terrace-Bldg.7, Suite 7100 - Council Chambers
Board of Trustees Work Session/Meeting
Monday, April 6, 2020*
Westlake Town Hall, Solana Terrace-Bldg.7, Suite 7100 - Council Chambers
*For meeting agendas and details on WA calendar events or Municipal calendar events, please visit the Westlake
Academy website or the Town of Westlake website for further assistance.
CONSENT AGENDA: All items listed below are considered routine by the Board of
Trustees and will be enacted with one motion. There will be no separate discussion of
items unless a Board member or citizen so requests, in which event the item will be
removed from the general order of business and considered in its normal sequence.
a. Consider approval of the minutes from the meeting on February 3, 2020.
b. Consider approval of Resolution 20-02, Approving the trip to Canada
regarding French language immersion experience in Montreal.
Board of
Trustees
Item # 3 – Consent
Agenda
BOT Minutes 02/03/20
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WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
February 3, 2020
PRESENT: President Laura Wheat and Trustees: Carol Langdon, Greg Goble, and Alesa
Belvedere.
ABSENT: Michael Barrett and Rick Rennhack.
OTHERS PRESENT: Superintendent Amanda DeGan, Deputy Town Manager Noah
Simon, Assistant Town Manager Jarrod Greenwood, Board
Secretary Todd Wood, Assistant to the Town secretary Tanya
Morris, Communications Director Ginger Awtry, Communications
Manager Jon Sasser, Director of Information Technology Jason
Power, Finance Director Debbie Piper, Director of Planning &
Development Ron Ruthven, Fire Chief Richard Whitten, Accounting
Technician Marlene Rutledge, Westlake Academy Executive
Director Dr. Mechelle Bryson, PYP Principal Rod Harding, Assistant
Secondary Principal Jennifer Furnish, Westlake Academy Executive
Director Shelly Myers, College Counselor Carl Tippen, Athletic
Director Alan Burt, Special Education Coordinator Shannon Ward,
Alumni & Communications Specialist Martha McKinney, Dyslexia
Specialist Amy Henderson, DP Coordinator Dr. James Owen, and
SPED Aide Meg Falcon.
1. CALL TO ORDER
President Wheat called the meeting to order at 5:04 p.m.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
President Wheat led the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States and Texas flags.
3. CITIZEN COMMENTS
BOT Minutes 02/03/20
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Westlake Academy Foundation President Christine Ross provided an update to the Board.
Ms. Ross expressed enthusiasm of the new sponsors that had recently been confirmed for
Gallery Night, both for the live and silent auctions. Ms. Ross also informed the Board that
several new volunteers would be assisting in the event, mostly from PYP families. The
theme for the event would be from the 80’s, which was particularly supported by the
parents of younger children at the Academy.
Table sponsors and beverage sponsors are still needed for the event. Ms. Ross also
indicated an opportunity to sponsor faculty members and their spouses to attend the
event, which would be included in the bidding process.
The Gallery night event will feature a new bidding platform designed to work on
smartphones. For those who are unable to attend the event, bids may be submitted by
smartphone or by computer. A two (2) week window would be provided for items to be
previewed, and bidding would begin one (1) week prior to the event. Ms. Ross expressed
hopefulness that this would attract bidders who would not be able to attend the event in
person.
4. RECOGNITION OF SPORTS TEAMS.
Athletic Director Alan Burt began with an overview of the activities of the Cheer Dance
Team, coached by Maria Busico-Flight, Rhoda Hahn, and Sarah Firsching. This team has
had a tremendous impact; adding a significant amount of energy and a new dynamic to
our sporting events. Ms. Firsching expressed thanks to the Cheer Dance Team for their
hard work in setting a great tone for our competitive events. She expressed thanks to the
community, students and faculty for their support of the team.
Mr. Burt provided an overview of the Drumline Team, coached by Creighton Hulse, who
was unable to attend the meeting due to a professional development conference. Mr. Burt
expressed the positivity of Westlake Academy’s Drumline team working together with the
drumline teams of other schools during recent games. He stated that the efforts of this
team for our athletic programs was outstanding, and they were a part of the recent
championship win of Westlake Academy’s football team.
Mr. Burt then introduced the Westlake Academy football team, coached by Ray Cheatham,
who was attend the meeting due to other obligations. The football team recently won the
state championship for the first time. The football team consisted of 33 players, and Mr.
Burt praised the leadership of the senior class, noting that they lost the finals in the
previous year. After last year’s game, the junior class said that they would bring the first
championship ring to Westlake Academy the following year, and their leadership and
determination prevailed in this effort.
The Board expressed appreciation and congratulations to all teams.
5. REVIEW OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS LISTED ON THE REGULAR MEETING
AGENDA.
No additional discussion.
BOT Minutes 02/03/20
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6. REPORTS
a. Quarterly Financial “Dashboard” report for the quarter ending November 30, 2019.
No additional discussion.
7. DISCUSSION ITEMS
a. Presentation and discussion of Westlake Academy’s College Matriculation Data.
Dr. Mechelle Bryson, Carl Tippen, and Martha McKinney provided a presentation on
this item. Dr. Bryson began with Westlake Academy’s philosophy that all students
should be ready for college or other secondary educational program following
graduation. Ms. McKinney noted that college readiness embodied the skills,
knowledge, and behaviors that every student should have upon graduation.
Mr. Tippen and Ms. McKinney provided a comparison of data college graduation rates
and indicated that IB students were more likely to a 4-year college or attend a school
with higher selection criteria. The data showed that Westlake Academy graduates are
completing a four-year (4) college program within four to six (4-6) years at a much
higher percentage than the national average.
Dr. Bryson provided Westlake Academy’s four-year (4) college graduation data:
• 2012 WA Graduates: 82.2% completed, 10.7% in progress, and 7.1% are no
longer enrolled. 32% have completed or are completing a graduate degree.
• 2013 WA Graduates: 75% completed, 12.5% in progress, and 12.5% are no
longer enrolled. 2.5% have completed or are completing a graduate degree.
• 2014 WA Graduates: 65% completed, 22% in progress, 9.3% are no longer
enrolled, and 3.7% are unaccounted for. 13% have completed or are completing a
graduate degree.
• 2015 WA Graduates: 58% completed, 32% in progress, 10% are no longer
enrolled, and 3.7% are unaccounted for. 10% are completing a graduate degree.
• 2016 WA Graduates: 5% completed, 84% in progress, 11% are no longer
enrolled, and 1.6% have completed or are completing a graduate degree.
• 2017 WA Graduates: 1.6% completed, 89% in progress, and 9.4% are no longer
enrolled.
• 2018 WA Graduates: 94% are completing their undergraduate degree, 1.5%
are not enrolled, and 4.5% are involved in religious missions.
• 2019 WA Graduates: 98% are completing their undergraduate degree, and 2%
are involved in religious missions.
BOT Minutes 02/03/20
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Mayor Wheat inquired about the definition of “IB for all” and if that specifically indicated
the need to obtain an IB Diploma. Dr. Bryson and Superintendent Degan shared that
this term more closely described the IB educational experience and the tools that it
provides students to achieve success, and not graduating specifically with an IB
Diploma.
b. Presentation and discussion regarding 504, Special Education data and Shared Service
Agreements.
Dr. Mechelle Bryson and Shannon Ward provided a presentation on this item at the
Board’s request. Dr. Bryson began by providing 504 program data for the current and
previous school year. In 2019-2020 school year, 111 students (12.38%) were receiving
these services. In 2018-2019 school year, 117 students (13.22%) received these
services.
Dr. Bryson then presented data from the Special Education Department for K-12
students. In 2017-2018 school year, 26 students (3.5%) received these services. In
2018-2019 school year, 34 students (2.5%) received these services. In 2019-2020
school year, 44 students (4.3%) were receiving these services. By contrast, the state
statistic of students receiving Special Education is currently 9.5%.
Mayor Wheat asked staff to refresh the Board’s understanding of everyone in
attendance of the differences between Special Education and 504 programs. Dr.
Bryson and Ms. Ward explained that the 504 program is an “umbrella” that
encompasses students with general variations in how they learn (i.e., dyslexia, medical
condition, or other reasons), whereas Special Education falls under a different law that
warrants an individual education plan. Dr. Bryson explained that 504 programs do no
modify what is learned; it is an approach to provide equal access to the curriculum.
With Special Education, modifications to the curriculum are be made to provide equal
access in addition to customizing other aspects based on the individual learning needs
of each student.
Dr. Bryson explained a potential shared services agreement for services and
emphasized the complexity of this matter. It was then explained that Birdville ISD has
certain day programs where Westlake Academy could join as a potential partner to
serve students with certain needs. It was explained that it when there is a common
need, there can be a mutual benefit with interlocal co-operation. At this time,
transportation and other items have presented some challenges. Staff will continue to
research the possibility of interlocal partnerships, along with other potential entities,
including the Region 11 Service Center.
c. Presentation and discussion of French International Trip - Dr. James Owen, Teri
Watson, Ingrid Thebault and Christine King
Dr. Bryson and Mr. Alan Burt provided an update on this topic, which pertains to the
trip for next year. Mr. Burt indicated that several meetings have been held with the
French teaching staff within the past week. Staff is ensuring that the vendors, methods
of travel, and number of participating students would be the correct course of action.
BOT Minutes 02/03/20
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After several discussions, staff felt that it was best to hold off on any decisions
regarding this trip until additional information could be obtained. Staff has requested
that this item be tabled until the March Board of Trustees meeting, which would allow
additional time to obtain answers to pending questions that would not be able to be
answered at this meeting.
The Board tabled this item with no action and asked that it be included on the Board
of Trustees meeting agenda for March 2, 2020.
8. BOARD RECAP / STAFF DIRECTION
None
9. ADJOURNMENT
President Wheat adjourned the work session at 5:59 p.m.
Regular Session will begin immediately following the work session
1. CALL TO ORDER
President Wheat called the regular meeting session to order at 5:59 p.m.
2. ITEMS OF COMMUNITY INTEREST
Communications Director Ginger Awtry provided an overview of upcoming events.
3. CONSENT AGENDA
a. Consider approval of the minutes from the meeting on December 2, 2019.
b. Consider approval of minutes from the meeting on December 16, 2019.
c. Consider approval of Resolution 20-01, Approving the trip to Canada regarding
French language immersion experience in Montreal.
MOTION: President Wheat removed Item “3c” from the consent agenda for
consideration at the March 2020 meeting. The motion to approve the
consent agenda consisted of items 3a and 3b.
Trustee Langdon made a motion to approve the consent agenda.
Trustee Belvedere seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote
of 3-0.
4. CONDUCT A PUBLIC HEARING AND DISCUSSION OF WESTLAKE ACADEMY’S
ACCOUNTABILITY REPORT 2019.
Executive Director Dr. Mechelle Bryson provided a presentation of Westlake Academy’s
Accountability Report. This is done on an annual basis within 60 days of receiving the Annual
School Report Card from the Texas Education Agency (TEA). The state accountability ratings
are based on the overall performance of the school in the three (3) categories: Student
achievement, student progress, and closing the gap.
BOT Minutes 02/03/20
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Westlake Academy scored an “A” on the accountability report, with a score of 98 for the
2018-2019 school year. Dr. Bryson also confirmed that Westlake Academy received
distinctions from all categories available from TEA. The passing scores by grade level were
as follows:
Grade 3: 100% (Reading) 100% (Math)
Grade 4: 93% (Reading) 84% (Math) 89% (Writing)
Grade 5: 100% (Reading) 100% (Math) 97% (Science)
Grade 6: 97% (Reading) 99% (Math)
Grade 7: 99% (Reading) 97% (Math) 96% (Writing)
Grade 8: 100% (Reading) 95% (Science) 83% (Social Studies)
End of Course English 1: 99%
End of Course English 2: 97%
End of Course Algebra 1: 98%
End of Course Biology: 99%
Dr. Bryson also noted that the PSAT and SAT scores for Westlake Academy were higher
than the state average.
President Wheat opened the public hearing.
No one addressed the Board.
President Wheat closed the public hearing.
5. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
No future agenda items.
6. ADJOURNMENT
President Wheat asked for a motion to adjourn the Board of Trustees meeting. Trustee
Langdon made a motion to approve the consent agenda. Trustee Belvedere seconded the
motion. The motion carried by a vote of 3-0. President Wheat adjourned the meeting at
6:14 p.m.
APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES ON MARCH 2, 2020.
ATTEST:
______________________________________ ______________________________
Todd Wood, Board Secretary Laura Wheat, President
estlake Academy Board of Trustees
TYPE OF ACTION
Regular Meeting - Consent
Westlake Board Meeting
Monday, March 02, 2020
TOPIC: Consider a Resolution approving the trip to Canada regarding French
language immersion experience in Montreal.
STAFF CONTACT: Dr. James Owen, Teri Watson, Christine King and Ingrid Thebault
Strategic Alignment
Vision, Value, Mission Perspective Curriculum Outcome
Objective
Vision: Westlake
Academy inspires
college bound
students to achieve
their highest
individual potential in
a nuturing
environment that
fosters the traits
found in the IB
Learner Profile.
Academic
Operations MYP / DP
Strengthen IB
Philosophy &
Implementation
Strategic Initiative
Outside the Scope of Identified Strategic Initiatives
Time Line - Start Date: March 2, 2020 Completion Date: Ongoing
Funding Amount: Ongoing Status - Funded Source - Self-funded
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY (INCLUDING APPLICABLE ORGANIZATIONAL HISTORY)
The world in which our students work, live and tweet require them to effectively communicate
with others around the world, to partner with them to collectively solve problems and to execute
these solutions in a way that demonstrates intercultural understanding and consideration of
different perspectives. As such, International Mindedness is the cornerstone of the IB mission.
Over the past six years, the Academy has placed an increased emphasis on strengthening the
international mindedness of stakeholders by creating partnerships with international schools and
providing Academy students language immersion learning experiences. Currently, we do not
have language immersion learning experiences for Westlake Academy’s students enrolled in
French.
In 2018, the Board of Trustees approved a trip to Quebec, however; the trip was cancelled due to
lack of student participation. The Academy still believes in the value of a French immersion
learning experience for our students and has begun plans for a trip in the spring semester 2021 to
Montreal, Canada.
According to Westlake Academy board policy 6.02, Board Parameters for School Sanctioned
Trips, “all international trips must adhere to all Westlake Academy Board Policies and
administrative procedures for school sanctioned trips. These school sanctioned trips may be
offered at various times throughout the year upon the recommendation of the Executive Director
and approval by the Board of Trustees”.
Westlake Academy’s Executive Director has reviewed the request to add a French language
immersion experience to Montreal and is seeking Board approval.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval
ATTACHMENTS
Resolution
WA Resolution 20-02
Page 1 of 2
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
RESOLUTION 20-02
A RESOLUTION OF THE WESTLAKE ACADEMY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
APPROVING THE TRIP TO CANADA REGARDING FRENCH LANGUAGE
IMMERSION EXPERIENCE IN MONTREAL.
WHEREAS, Westlake Academy ensures the successful implementation of the
International Baccalaureate framework; and
WHEREAS, Westlake Academy ensures the successful integration of international
mindedness through all International Baccalaureate Programmes; and
WHEREAS, Westlake Academy ensures that all three components of international
mindedness, cultural awareness, multilingualism and global participation, is visible within all
International Baccalaureate Programme; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees finds that the passage of this Resolution is in the best
interest of the citizens of Westlake as well as the students, their parents, and faculty of Westlake
Academy.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF
WESTLAKE ACADEMY:
SECTION 1: That, all matters stated in the recitals hereinabove are found to be true and
correct and are incorporated herein by reference as if copied in their entirety.
SECTION 2: That, the Board of Trustees of Westlake Academy, hereby approves the
addition of a trip to the master schedule of school travel opportunities.
SECTION 3: If any portion of this resolution shall, for any reason, be declared invalid by
any court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity shall not affect the remaining provisions hereof
and the Council hereby determines that it would have adopted this Resolution without the invalid
provision.
SECTION 4: That this resolution shall become effective from and after its date of
passage.
WA Resolution 20-02
Page 2 of 2
PASSED AND APPROVED ON THIS 2nd DAY OF MARCH 2020.
___________________________________
Laura Wheat, President
ATTEST:
________________________________ ___________________________________
Todd Wood, Board Secretary Amanda DeGan, Superintendent
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
________________________________
Janet S. Bubert or L. Stanton Lowry,
School Attorney
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: Any Board member may request at a workshop and / or
Board meeting, under “Future Agenda Item Requests”, an agenda item for a future Board
meeting. The Board member making the request will contact the Superintendent with the
requested item and the Superintendent will list it on the agenda. At the meeting, the
requesting Board member will explain the item, the need for Board discussion of the item,
the item’s relationship to the Board’s strategic priorities, and the amount of estimated staff
time necessary to prepare for Board discussion. If the requesting Board member receives
a second, the Superintendent will place the item on the Board agenda calendar allowing
for adequate time for staff preparation on the agenda item.
Board of
Trustees
Item # 4 – Future Agenda
Items
Board of
Trustees
Item #5 – Adjournment
Regular Session