HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-06-12 BOT Agenda PacketThe Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees will begin immediately following the conclusion of the Board
of Trustees Workshop but not prior to the posted start time.
Mission Statement
Westlake Academy is an IB World School whose mission is to provide students with an
internationally minded education of the highest quality so they are well-balanced and
respectful life-long learners.
Page 1 of 4
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
Vision Statement
Westlake Academy inspires students to achieve their highest individual potential in a nurturing
environment that fosters the traits found in the IB Learner Profile.
Inquirers, Knowledgeable, Thinkers, Communicators, Principled,
Open-Minded, Caring, Risk-takers, Balanced and Reflective
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING
AGENDA
February 6, 2012
WESTLAKE TOWN HALL
3 VILLAGE CIRCLE – 2ND FLOOR
WESTLAKE, TX 76262
COUNCIL CHAMBERS/MUNICIPAL COURT ROOM
Workshop Session 5:00 p.m.
Regular Session 6:00 p.m.
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Workshop Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. REVIEW OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS FROM FEBRUARY 6, 2012, TRUSTEES
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA.
4. REPORTS
Reports are prepared for informational purposes and will be accepted as presented. (there
will no presentations associated with the report items) There will be no separate discussion unless
a Board Member requests that report be removed and considered separately.
a. School Lunch Satisfaction and Analysis.
b. Follow-up Report on Student Withdrawals.
c. Possible Charter School Intervention in the Current School Finance Litigation.
5. DISCUSSION ITEMS
a. Discussion of Various Board Policies and Options Related to These Policies as they
Pertain Relate to Impacts on Finances, Facility Financing, and Enrollment. (1 hour)
b. Discussion of Governance as illustrated in Dr. Brian Carpenter’s Charter School Board
University: An Introduction to Effective Charter School Governance; Chapters 26-27.
(15 min)
6. BOARD RECAP / STAFF DIRECTION
7. ADJOURNMENT
Regular Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. CITIZENS' PRESENTATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS: This is an opportunity for
citizens to address the Board on any matter whether or not it is posted on the agenda.
The Board cannot by law take action nor have any discussion or deliberations on any
presentation made to the Board at this time concerning an item not listed on the agenda.
Any item presented may be noticed on a future agenda for deliberation or action.
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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 for the meeting held on January 9, 2012.
b. Consider approval of the minutes for the meeting held on January 23, 2012.
c. Consider approval of Resolution 12-04, Amending the 2012 Meeting Calendar.
4. BOARD CALENDAR
- Grade 11 DP Drama Production – Our Town
February 8, 10 & 11, 2012; 7:00 pm; WA Performance Hall
- Northeast Tarrant Transportation Summit
February 10, 2012; 8:30 am-1:30 pm; Hurst Conference Center
- Gallery Night
March 3, 2012, Marriott Solana at 6:00 p.m.
- Board of Trustee Meeting
March 5, 2012
- WA Spring Break
March 12 – 16, 2012
- Town Council Meeting
March 26, 2012
- MasterWorks Concert Spring Series – Free Outdoor Concert by Vocal Trash
March 30, 2012, WA Amphitheatre 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
- Westlake Arbor Day
April 7, 2012
5. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: Any Board member may request at a workshop and / or
Board meeting, under “Future Agenda Item Requests”, an agenda item for a future
Board meeting. The Board member making the request will contact the Superintendent
with the requested item and the Superintendent will list it on the agenda. At the
meeting, the requesting Board member will explain the item, the need for Board
discussion of the item, the item’s relationship to the Board’s strategic priorities, and the
amount of estimated staff time necessary to prepare for Board discussion. If the
requesting Board member receives a second, the Superintendent will place the item on
the Board agenda calendar allowing for adequate time for staff preparation on the
agenda item.
- None
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6. ADJOURNMENT
ANY ITEM ON THIS POSTED AGENDA COULD BE DISCUSSED IN EXECUTIVE
SESSION AS LONG AS IT IS WITHIN ONE OF THE PERMITTED CATEGORIES UNDER
SECTIONS 551.071 THROUGH 551.076 AND SECTION 551.087 OF THE TEXAS
GOVERNMENT CODE.
CERTIFICATION
I certify that the above notice was posted at the Town Hall of the Town of Westlake, 3 Village Circle, on
February 3, 2012, by 2:00 p.m. under the Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government
Code.
_____________________________________
Kelly Edwards, Town Secretary
If you plan to attend this public meeting and have a disability that requires special needs, please advise
the Town Secretary 48 hours in advance at 817-490-5710 and reasonable accommodations will be made
to assist you.
Westlake Academy
Item # 2 – Pledge of
Allegiance
Texas Pledge:
"Honor the Texas
flag; I pledge
allegiance to thee,
Texas, one state under
God, one and
indivisible."
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 for the meeting held on January 9, 2012.
b. Consider approval of the minutes for the meeting held on January 23, 2012.
c. Consider approval of Resolution 12-04, Amending the 2012 Meeting
Calendar.
Westlake Academy
Item # 3 –
Review of Consent
Agenda Items
REPORTS
Reports are prepared for informational purposes and will be accepted as presented.
(there will no presentations associated with the report items) There will be no separate discussion
unless a Board Member requests that report be removed and considered separately.
a. School Lunch Satisfaction and Analysis.
b. Follow-up Report on Student Withdrawals.
c. Possible Charter School Intervention in the Current School Finance Litigation.
Westlake
Academy
Item # 4–
Reports
Page 1 of 1
WESTLAKE ACADEMY AGENDA ITEM
Curriculum: PYP/MYP/DP Meeting Date: February 6, 2012
Staff Contact: Ben Nibarger Report
Administrative Coordinator
Subject: School Lunch Satisfaction and Analysis
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In the most recent Westlake Academy Parent Survey, lunch satisfaction levels were identified as an area
where improvement was needed. Additional analysis was conducted using the data collected from the
Parent Survey, as well as additional data collection from faculty, staff, and students. Recommendations
and actions taken are included in the report.
APPLICABLE STRATEGIC PLAN DESIRED OUTCOME
High Student Achievement
Strong Parent & Community Connections
Financial Stewardship & Sustainability
Student Engagement – Extracurricular activities
Effective Educators & Staff
WESTLAKE ACADEMY VALUES
Academic Achievement
PYP, MYP, DP (IB Continuum)
Caring Environment
Fiscal Stewardship
Communication/Transparency
Engaged Stakeholders
Maximizing Each Child’s Potential
FISCAL IMPACT
Funded Not Funded N/A
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED/ OPTIONS
Recommendations from staff on this topic are contained in the Report. Since this is a report, no
action required per the Council/Board policy for its meetings (this was put in place to
streamline the Board/Council meetings). However, per the Board Council policy, a Board
member may request that a Report be discussed at the meeting, if so desired.
ATTACHMENTS
Analysis
Surveys
Contents
Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 3
Analysis .................................................................................................................................................. 4
Limitations .......................................................................................................................................... 4
Analysis by Grade ............................................................................................................................... 5
Analysis by Years at Westlake Academy ............................................................................................ 6
Analysis by Income Level ................................................................................................................... 7
Significant Findings ............................................................................................................................ 8
Recommendations ................................................................................................................................. 8
Actions Taken ......................................................................................................................................... 8
Figure 1 - Overal Satifaction Trends Chart ............................................................................................. 3
Figure 2 - School Lunch Satisfaction by Grade ....................................................................................... 5
Figure 3 - Lunch Satisfaction Trend by Grade ........................................................................................ 5
Figure 4 - School Lunch Satisfaction by Years at Academy .................................................................... 6
Figure 5 - Lunch Satisfaction Trend by Years at Academy ..................................................................... 6
Figure 6 - Lunch Satisfaction by Income Level ....................................................................................... 7
Figure 7 - Lunch Satisfaction Trend by Income Level ............................................................................. 7
decline in satisfaction with school lunches in FY 2009-10 is related to an increased number of
students being served in a fixed timeframe.
This led to increased queuing time and resulted in students not being able to complete their lunch
prior to the end of the lunch period. The underlying cause of the increased time in line was related
to facility design flaw in the Academy’s lunch room and was resolved in FY 2010-11.
The 2010-11 survey results show that there was a significant increase in the school lunch program
satisfaction. While this increase is a first step in helping to improve the overall satisfaction with the
school lunch program, it is still necessary to identify what other issues may be leading to
dissatisfaction with the school lunch program.
Analysis
Utilizing the 2010-11 parent survey we were able to further analyze the data to help identify the
segments of our population who are dissatisfied with the school lunch program. This analysis
shows that there are a few areas where dissatisfaction is focused and the Academy may be able to
improve the satisfaction levels by focusing additional resources in those areas.
Limitations
The demographic makeup of Westlake Academy is significantly different than the majority of public
schools and comparison data is difficult, if not impossible, to obtain. Due to the large population of
households whose income levels exceed the national, state, and local levels, benchmark data used
in this analysis is based upon surveys that were available at a public school without consideration to
demographic makeup.
Obtaining overall satisfaction levels with school lunch programs was difficult to obtain on a national,
state, or local level. Individual schools appear to be the most likely to publish survey results
regarding their school lunch programs. The satisfaction surveys that were collected revealed
satisfaction levels only slightly higher than Westlake Academy. It appears that the average
satisfaction level with school lunch programs is in the range of 50%.
The parent survey only asked about overall satisfaction with the school lunch program and did not
delve into the specific areas of satisfaction, such as quality of food, appearance of food, price, or
other factors that would impact satisfaction with the school lunch program. Without this data it
will be difficult to pinpoint the specific areas of dissatisfaction and require future collection of data
to accurately diagnose and prescribe potential solutions.
Significant Findings
When conducting the analysis of the satisfaction levels with the school lunch program it was found
that the longer a child has been attending the Academy and the greater their household income,
the less satisfied those respondents are with the current school lunch program. It is also apparent
that the PYP programme has a greater satisfaction level with the school lunch program and as the
student’s grade level increases they become less satisfied with the school lunch programs.
The greatest predictor of satisfaction with the school lunch program is determined by the
household income and whether or not they have been attending the Academy for more than four
years. Those who are relatively new to the Academy and their household income is below $500,000
are more likely to be satisfied with the school lunch program.
Qualitative analysis accounted for some of the dissatisfaction which can be attributed to the poor
facility arrangements in prior years. The significant increase in the satisfaction levels during the
2010-11 school year provides support that system/facility changes were successful in improving the
satisfaction with the school lunch program.
The current setup of the kitchen precludes any onsite preparation of food and limits the options
available to the school to expand the school lunch program to a full-service kitchen. In addition to
the physical plant limitations, it is unclear whether the Academy would be able to improve
satisfaction levels with the school lunch program by operating a full-service kitchen.
Recommendations
Based upon the findings of this analysis, several initiatives have been identified and will be
completed over the 2011-12 school year. These initiatives will ultimately result in an improvement
plan that will identify specific tasks and activities that will help to improve the overall satisfaction
level with the school lunch program.
1. Complete the age appropriate survey in each of the programmes (Appendix B)
2. Continue monitoring the amount of time it takes for students to enter and exit the service
line
3. Continue to monitor the number of students who are unable to complete their lunch
4. Continue working with Victual, LLC to determine system/facility issues that may be
adversely impacting the school lunch program
Actions Taken
Due to the limitations of the Westlake Academy Parent Survey regarding the school lunch program,
the staff has been conducting an age appropriate survey with the students. The survey results can
be seen in Appendix B. Due to the lack of response from students, we are only able to use the
qualitative data, but they provide some insight into the dissatisfaction with the current school lunch
program:
• Price
• Want fast food
• Better food
• More time to eat
• More snacks/ice cream
• Portion sizes
• Healthier choices
• The appearance of the food
• Café style coffee bar / pastry shop
• Food court style (Chik-fil-A, Taco Bell)
• More choices of entrees
• Vegetarian options
The survey results have been shared with representatives from our caterer and they have been
working closely with the administrative offices to improve areas of concern. The survey results
showing low levels of satisfaction concerned the catering company and raised a valid question; is
Westlake Academy more interested in the students being fed a well-balanced, nutritious meal, or
high satisfaction ratings. This question was raised due to the continued request in the comment
sections for more fast-food based products.
Members of the staff questioned about the quality of the food consistently respond that it tastes
good and there is a variety of offerings which allow students to choose what most appeals to them
and their responses have been included in Appendix B.
Appendix A – Teacher Opinions about the Lunch Program
• The food is good, good choices, just too expensive.
• I love the veggies and different healthy options.
• I think the food served tastes good and they have a variety of options to choose from. I also
feel the caterer is very generous to our students, staff & school.
• I think the food served tastes good sometimes and they have a limited variety of options to
choose from. I wish they would provide better a la carte and fresh options, as they tend to
have the leftovers from a couple of days before, reheated. Sometimes more than once.
• I've eaten the food only once and I thought it was great. I didn't expect it to taste so good. I
like that there were a few choices for the main dish and several sides to choose from as
well. It all seemed reasonably healthy, except, of course, for the cookie I had for dessert. I
think they should have more than one register. It would make for a smoother, quicker, and
more efficient checking out process.
• The food looks unappealing to me on most days. My child usually brings her lunch from
home, and I do the same. I would probably bring lunch from home even if the school
provided better food, though. I wish they would provide more fresh-looking items.
• I have not personally eaten there but the customer service is very good.
• I think the food they serve has a good taste and is varied. I wish they served more variety of
salads and fruits. In my opinion, the prices are VERY high for the little portions they serve.
I've seen some juniors and seniors that need to buy 2 portions because 1 is NOT enough,
and that is super expensive.
• I don't care for the food this year. Limited choices and chicken something nearly every
day.... But then again Kinder doesn't get a "CHOICE" at all. Can we eat in the DINING HALL
next year...PLEASE?
• I think the service provider is warm with students. The food options are varied but I wish the
food was better priced.
• They make an effort to serve healthy options. He is very intentional in the menu and offers
variety. My only criticism is that it is a little too expensive for what is served.
• I think they are very few options and I wish the provider would offer more choices. The
portions are way too small for the students, as they are growing and need more food!
• I think the food served tastes good, is fresh and they have a variety of options to choose
from. I wish they would provide maybe like a small salad bar. Another idea could be to
draw more customers, maybe targeting teachers & staff and they would buy food from the
lunch provider if they provide a little discount or something like that...;-)
• My student really likes the lunches and I feel she gets a good variety of healthy foods.
5 of 16
Servers and cashiers listen to the
students.
14.5% (11)15.8% (12)
18.4%
(14)
19.7%
(15)
11.8%
(9)
19.7%
(15)
3.58
Meals are planned for healthy
eating.
22.8% (18)19.0% (15)26.6%
(21)
15.2%
(12)
2.5% (2)
13.9%
(11)
2.97
I like how the food looks.24.1% (19)20.3% (16)26.6%
(21)
16.5%
(13)
6.3% (5)
6.3%
(5)
2.80
Tables in the dining area are clean.17.7% (14)21.5% (17)26.6%
(21)
16.5%
(13)
15.2%
(12)
2.5%
(2)
2.97
Servers and cashiers smile and
greet me when i am served.
16.5% (13)20.3% (16)27.8%
(22)
12.7%
(10)
10.1%
(8)
12.7%
(10)
3.18
Meal prices are reasonable.33.3% (26)24.4% (19)
21.8%
(17)
5.1% (4)3.8% (3)
11.5%
(9)
2.56
I like the taste of the food.21.8% (17)14.1% (11)28.2%
(22)
12.8%
(10)
10.3%
(8)
12.8%
(10)
3.14
Information on calories in food in
available.33.8% (26)16.9% (13)
11.7%
(9)
5.2% (4)9.1% (7)
23.4%
(18)
3.09
Servers and cashiers answer my
questions.
16.7% (13)16.7% (13)28.2%
(22)
10.3%
(8)
10.3%
(8)
17.9%
(14)
3.35
Vegetables on the serving line look
good.32.9% (26)24.1% (19)
24.1%
(19)
6.3% (5)3.8% (3)
8.9%
(7)
2.51
I like the quality of the food
choices.
23.1% (18)14.1% (11)32.1%
(25)
15.4%
(12)
5.1% (4)
10.3%
(8)
2.96
Cold sandwiches (such as peanut
butter or subs) look good.
24.1% (19)12.7% (10)29.1%
(23)
8.9% (7)
11.4%
(9)
13.9%
(11)
3.13
The time given to eat once seated
is OK.
24.4% (19)20.5% (16)26.9%
(21)
11.5%
(9)
9.0% (7)
7.7%
(6)
2.83
The food choices allow me to pick
food like I eat at home.29.5% (23)23.1% (18)
25.6%
(20)
9.0% (7)1.3% (1)
11.5%
(9)
2.64
I like the quality of the meal of the
day.24.4% (19)21.8% (17)
23.1%
(18)
10.3%
(8)
2.6% (2)
17.9%
(14)
2.99
Total time given for meal periods is
OK.22.8% (18)22.8% (18)
21.5%
(17)
20.3%
(16)
5.1% (4)
7.6%
(6)
2.85
I like how the dining area looks.21.5% (17)10.1% (8)38.0%
(30)
17.7%
(14)
10.1%
(8)
2.5%
(2)
2.92
7 of 16
8 of 16
Page 2, Q8. What one thing do you like best about your school lunch program that you would never want
changed?
1Mrs.
Rosie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Oct 23, 2011 6:25 AM
2I would never want to change any of the servers/cashiers because they are
super nice!!!!
Oct 7, 2011 4:18 AM
3pizza Oct 5, 2011 12:57 PM
4They have baked potatoes almost every day, and they always have cookies!Oct 5, 2011 7:13 AM
5I would never want the baked potato's to stop being an eating choice.Oct 3, 2011 5:59 PM
6pizza day and cookies Oct 3, 2011 5:45 PM
7I like that they give you options and don't just get sandwiches. They
cook,boil,refrigerate.
Oct 3, 2011 5:27 PM
8I do not like it.Oct 3, 2011 2:12 PM
9I like the size of the dinning hall Oct 2, 2011 5:27 PM
10I love how the lunch people are kind and generous.Oct 1, 2011 4:18 PM
11I like that I can sit with my friends at lunch and not sit in a assigned seat. P.S.
Love the Alfredo pasta.
Oct 1, 2011 10:47 AM
12the snacks that they buy Sep 29, 2011 2:00 PM
13i like the drinks.Sep 29, 2011 11:17 AM
14The tables.Sep 29, 2011 11:16 AM
15I love the school lunch cookies! They are the best when not burnt.Sep 29, 2011 11:13 AM
16The smiles on their face Sep 29, 2011 11:11 AM
17I would like the people that work there to not go away.Sep 29, 2011 10:23 AM
18how you have a refrigerator Sep 29, 2011 10:10 AM
19I love the food and the price Sep 29, 2011 10:08 AM
20pizza day Sep 29, 2011 6:31 AM
21cookies,baked patatoes,pizza days Sep 29, 2011 6:28 AM
22cookies Sep 29, 2011 6:26 AM
23studant concil pizza day,and cookies.Sep 29, 2011 6:25 AM
24They have nice tables that you can fit everything and everyone on.Sep 29, 2011 6:23 AM
9 of 16
Page 2, Q8. What one thing do you like best about your school lunch program that you would never want
changed?
25cookies Sep 29, 2011 6:20 AM
26the snacks you can buy are good for 2nd break Sep 29, 2011 6:15 AM
27i do not know Sep 28, 2011 5:51 PM
28nothing Sep 28, 2011 5:08 AM
29Cookies!!!!Sep 27, 2011 5:28 PM
30the large selection of food and snacks available to get Sep 27, 2011 12:29 PM
31cookies Sep 27, 2011 12:16 PM
32That I do not have it.Sep 27, 2011 12:13 PM
33I do not know . I do not use it.Sep 27, 2011 12:12 PM
34the COOKIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Sep 27, 2011 12:11 PM
35I don't want to change the cookies Sep 27, 2011 12:11 PM
36The lunchboys Sep 27, 2011 12:09 PM
37pasta!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Sep 27, 2011 12:05 PM
38pizza!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sep 27, 2011 12:00 PM
39I would never like to change how we have those 1 dollar a cone or something
like that.
Sep 27, 2011 11:55 AM
40The salads Sep 27, 2011 11:55 AM
41the way they show every food detail when you buy it and how they try to keep it
fresh with foil on the pan and keep it in the fridge for things they need cold.
Sep 27, 2011 11:52 AM
42THE CROISSANTS Sep 27, 2011 11:48 AM
43The cookies are good and the servers are very polite and kind.Sep 27, 2011 11:48 AM
44the sweets and salads Sep 27, 2011 11:47 AM
45Well, nothing really.Sep 27, 2011 11:47 AM
46i like all the v8s to choose from. plus, i like that there is not just 1 lunch to choose
from, like a bake potato .
Sep 27, 2011 11:47 AM
47I really dislike all of the food in the cafeteria it is discusting and it makes my
stomach hurt.
Sep 27, 2011 11:44 AM
10 of 16
Page 2, Q8. What one thing do you like best about your school lunch program that you would never want
changed?
48the food Sep 27, 2011 7:09 AM
49I would not know Sep 27, 2011 6:59 AM
50Nothing Sep 27, 2011 6:59 AM
51the sweets.Sep 27, 2011 5:42 AM
52I like the amount of time we have to eat Sep 27, 2011 5:39 AM
53milk Sep 27, 2011 5:37 AM
54I like the far that they ask us what we want in meal of the day.Sep 27, 2011 5:37 AM
55I like how people act in the lunch room.Sep 27, 2011 5:33 AM
56I like that we use our student number to buy the lunch.Sep 27, 2011 5:32 AM
57I like the cookies the best, but only when they are warm and chewy Sep 27, 2011 5:32 AM
58that there is v8 and i love v8. its the only drink i usually get.Sep 27, 2011 5:27 AM
59I like pizza day best.Sep 27, 2011 5:26 AM
60I like how lunch lines are small.Sep 27, 2011 5:25 AM
61i like the variety of sides and i would not change them Sep 27, 2011 5:25 AM
62I never want to change where we sit. I like to sit with my friends in the other class
to and not have assigned seats. And using the microwaves .
Sep 27, 2011 5:25 AM
63the food choices Sep 27, 2011 5:24 AM
64I have no idea!!! I don't really eat the school lunches. I mean I might get a cookie
sometimes but I never get the main meal they serve. So I'm not really sure!
Sep 27, 2011 5:23 AM
65I do not by school lunch Sep 27, 2011 5:21 AM
66That we are aloud to talk during lunch.Sep 27, 2011 5:20 AM
67I like the way they ask for your number or last name.Sep 27, 2011 5:20 AM
68Pizza Day!!!!!!!Sep 27, 2011 5:20 AM
69I don't buy lunch Sep 27, 2011 5:19 AM
70they have food and milk Sep 27, 2011 5:19 AM
71the wonderful cookies Sep 27, 2011 5:17 AM
12 of 16
Page 2, Q9. If you could change on thing about your school lunch program, what would it be?
1Everything except Mrs.
Rosie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Oct 23, 2011 6:25 AM
2I would probably change the prices on the food because they are to high for
normal lunches and I could go out for a nice dinner for that much $$$. You guys
charge extra for water and too much for snacks it would be very nice if y'all could
change the price to a conciderable price!
Oct 7, 2011 4:18 AM
3Lower price Oct 5, 2011 12:57 PM
4nicer lunch people, servers and cashiers who can understand me and know how
to work the cash register, people not yelling at me if they get frustrated, a
different lunch company, cream cheese back, we are able to bring fast food.
Oct 5, 2011 7:13 AM
5The prices are exstremly high and its more economical to bring your lunch, still
eat more food and eat healthier.
Oct 3, 2011 5:59 PM
6more than 1 line one should be 3rd and one should be 4th grade Oct 3, 2011 5:45 PM
7I would make the lines faster. I would also give students more time to eat.Oct 3, 2011 5:27 PM
8They would actually have good food in the cafeteria.Oct 3, 2011 2:12 PM
9I would want them to clean more Oct 2, 2011 5:27 PM
10the food would taste better Oct 2, 2011 5:03 PM
11Price of the meal should be lower.Oct 2, 2011 3:36 PM
12I want to have a different food company with much better food Oct 2, 2011 2:36 PM
13I would change strictness of the teachers against the students.Oct 1, 2011 4:18 PM
14The choices. Sometimes I have to eat something that doesn't taste good and
then I get really hungry because I sometimes don't eat it. P.S. I would love it if
they made the Alfredo pasta more often. :)
Oct 1, 2011 10:47 AM
15the people and the food and the time so we have more and the way the lunch
room looks
Sep 29, 2011 2:00 PM
16would like the food that we get from online.Sep 29, 2011 11:17 AM
17More time to eat.Sep 29, 2011 11:16 AM
18the meat, and cold sandwiches look disgusting!Sep 29, 2011 11:13 AM
19The food Sep 29, 2011 11:11 AM
20I would love if they would change some of the food.Sep 29, 2011 10:23 AM
21to serve brunch more often and ice cream Sep 29, 2011 10:10 AM
22I would want to change the food price Sep 29, 2011 10:08 AM
13 of 16
Page 2, Q9. If you could change on thing about your school lunch program, what would it be?
23i do not know Sep 29, 2011 6:31 AM
24green beans/prices (cheaper)Sep 29, 2011 6:28 AM
25everything except cookies and crosaunts Sep 29, 2011 6:26 AM
26the food.Sep 29, 2011 6:25 AM
27I would like more vegetarian options because I am vegetarian for religious
reasons.
Sep 29, 2011 6:23 AM
28better food Sep 29, 2011 6:20 AM
29more school lines and better food [main meal]Sep 29, 2011 6:15 AM
30lower prices,more eating time because when i get my food i only get 10-15
minutes to eat,
Sep 28, 2011 5:51 PM
31everithing Sep 28, 2011 5:08 AM
32Bring smoothies and un gross muffins!!!! No more pasta!!!! Ice cream on Fridays!Sep 27, 2011 5:28 PM
33More healthy choices, specially vegetarian food.Sep 27, 2011 4:31 PM
34the health on the food choices, the taste's, and the greece that burst out of our
meals, the prices-need to be lower from the poor quality of the meals...honestly
Sep 27, 2011 12:29 PM
35everything else Sep 27, 2011 12:16 PM
36Better quality food instead of warmed up processed food.Sep 27, 2011 12:13 PM
37I do not know. I do not use it.Sep 27, 2011 12:12 PM
38more cookies for less money Sep 27, 2011 12:11 PM
39No more pasta and bring back brownies Sep 27, 2011 12:11 PM
40They should b really hawt(lunch boys)Sep 27, 2011 12:09 PM
41drity tras Sep 27, 2011 12:05 PM
42how the cafeteria looks and the food Sep 27, 2011 12:00 PM
43If I were to change it, it would be the expenses.They need to be lowered.Sep 27, 2011 11:55 AM
44NO
PASTA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sep 27, 2011 11:55 AM
14 of 16
Page 2, Q9. If you could change on thing about your school lunch program, what would it be?
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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15 of 16
Page 2, Q9. If you could change on thing about your school lunch program, what would it be?
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
45less of the unhealthy choices and more fruits and vegetables Sep 27, 2011 11:52 AM
46CHEAPER Sep 27, 2011 11:48 AM
47I like the other muffins better before they changed to store bought ones in
packages. Also, I think you should serve more kid friendly food. I don't like
damon or fish sticks or some of the veggies. More fruit options and no more
pesto please.
Sep 27, 2011 11:48 AM
48the food Sep 27, 2011 11:47 AM
49Well, nothing really.Sep 27, 2011 11:47 AM
50i wish there would be sodas and ice cream Sep 27, 2011 11:47 AM
51To make it a lot more sanitary.Sep 27, 2011 11:44 AM
52nothing Sep 27, 2011 7:09 AM
53I would not know Sep 27, 2011 6:59 AM
54I feel that the prices on food are to high and that there are not enough vegaterian
foods
Sep 27, 2011 6:59 AM
55better food.Sep 27, 2011 5:42 AM
56I would like it better if they stopped using such strong cleaning supplies Sep 27, 2011 5:39 AM
57food Sep 27, 2011 5:37 AM
58I wish they would stop using such strong cleaning supplies on trays why not just
no trays at all?
Sep 27, 2011 5:37 AM
59I would like it if we could have cleaner service.Sep 27, 2011 5:33 AM
60The portion is too small.Sep 27, 2011 5:32 AM
61I would change all the prices Sep 27, 2011 5:32 AM
62i would like to change how fast the lunch line goes because sometimes i don't
get enough time to eat my food.
Sep 27, 2011 5:27 AM
63I would change the food and the smells.Sep 27, 2011 5:26 AM
64the food, I don't like it Sep 27, 2011 5:25 AM
65i would change the lines it takes to long to buy your lunch or a milk Sep 27, 2011 5:25 AM
16 of 16
Page 2, Q9. If you could change on thing about your school lunch program, what would it be?
66The children cleaning up the cafeteria after lunch.Sep 27, 2011 5:25 AM
67how clean it is Sep 27, 2011 5:24 AM
68Ummmmmmmm... Again I don't really eat their food! I guess its just not
appealing to me. at all!!!
Sep 27, 2011 5:23 AM
69I do not by school lunch Sep 27, 2011 5:21 AM
70The food choices Sep 27, 2011 5:20 AM
71I would like more choices of food.Sep 27, 2011 5:20 AM
72gluten free menu Sep 27, 2011 5:20 AM
73to be able to talk louder Sep 27, 2011 5:19 AM
74to have healthier choices Sep 27, 2011 5:19 AM
75the slow computers Sep 27, 2011 5:17 AM
5 of 17
Servers and cashiers listen to the
students.
10.2% (10)9.2% (9)25.5%
(25)
17.3%
(17)
17.3%
(17)
20.4%
(20)
3.84
Meals are planned for healthy
eating.
20.0% (20)11.0% (11)29.0%
(29)
17.0%
(17)
5.0% (5)
18.0%
(18)
3.30
I like how the food looks.30.0% (30)17.0% (17)31.0%
(31)
15.0%
(15)
4.0% (4)
3.0%
(3)
2.55
Tables in the dining area are clean.19.2% (19)15.2% (15)30.3%
(30)
24.2%
(24)
7.1% (7)
4.0%
(4)
2.97
Servers and cashiers smile and
greet me when i am served.
12.0% (12)13.0% (13)
19.0%
(19)
24.0%
(24)
19.0%
(19)
13.0%
(13)
3.64
Meal prices are reasonable.42.6% (43)14.9% (15)
24.8%
(25)
5.9% (6)2.0% (2)
9.9%
(10)
2.40
I like the taste of the food.30.7% (31)11.9% (12)
27.7%
(28)
16.8%
(17)
1.0% (1)
11.9%
(12)
2.81
Information on calories in food in
available.33.7% (34)13.9% (14)
21.8%
(22)
4.0% (4)2.0% (2)
24.8%
(25)
3.01
Servers and cashiers answer my
questions.
15.0% (15)8.0% (8)26.0%
(26)
12.0%
(12)
21.0%
(21)
18.0%
(18)
3.70
Vegetables on the serving line look
good.36.6% (37)16.8% (17)
21.8%
(22)
10.9%
(11)
5.0% (5)
8.9%
(9)
2.57
I like the quality of the food
choices.33.7% (34)11.9% (12)
30.7%
(31)
13.9%
(14)
3.0% (3)
6.9%
(7)
2.61
Cold sandwiches (such as peanut
butter or subs) look good.
26.7% (27)13.9% (14)28.7%
(29)
13.9%
(14)
4.0% (4)
12.9%
(13)
2.93
The time given to eat once seated
is OK.
17.0% (17)16.0% (16)
19.0%
(19)
18.0%
(18)
23.0%
(23)
7.0%
(7)
3.35
The food choices allow me to pick
food like I eat at home.35.0% (35)15.0% (15)
19.0%
(19)
16.0%
(16)
2.0% (2)
13.0%
(13)
2.74
I like the quality of the meal of the
day.
27.0% (27)21.0% (21)32.0%
(32)
7.0% (7)2.0% (2)
11.0%
(11)
2.69
Total time given for meal periods is
OK.
18.8% (19)7.9% (8)27.7%
(28)
16.8%
(17)
23.8%
(24)
5.0%
(5)
3.34
I like how the dining area looks.14.9% (15)12.9% (13)29.7%
(30)
22.8%
(23)
14.9%
(15)
5.0%
(5)
3.25
8 of 17
Page 2, Q8. What one thing do you like best about your school lunch program that you would never want
changed?
1Keep the rice crispie treats Oct 19, 2011 1:54 PM
2Cookies Oct 9, 2011 5:22 PM
3I think Walter (the main guy) is very nice and respectful.Oct 9, 2011 5:03 PM
4The cashiers and servers are always friendly and help me all the time.Oct 4, 2011 2:14 PM
5Lunch room setting Oct 4, 2011 8:13 AM
6COOKIES, COOKIES, GATORADE, COOKIES, STAFF, COOKIES, COOKIES,
COOKIES,COOKIES, COOKIES, COOKIES, COOKIES,
COOKIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Enough said!!!!!:)
Oct 4, 2011 8:06 AM
7I liked the food from a few few years ago better.Oct 3, 2011 5:53 PM
8NOTHING!!!!!Oct 3, 2011 6:33 AM
9the staff members and servers Oct 1, 2011 2:26 PM
10mighty mango naked is the best thing ever keep it Sep 30, 2011 8:23 AM
11i like how there are two cafeteria so there is more room Sep 30, 2011 7:21 AM
12The quality of the food given Sep 29, 2011 6:29 PM
13THE COOKIES!!!!!!!!!Sep 29, 2011 5:54 PM
14The food being served to you.Sep 29, 2011 5:51 PM
15I don't care for any of the food they serve.Sep 29, 2011 4:06 PM
16The fresh cookies and good service Sep 29, 2011 3:23 PM
17the yummy cookies but not price Sep 28, 2011 11:33 AM
18I like everything except the food is a bit too expensive for what they five you.Sep 28, 2011 7:03 AM
19it's lovely Sep 28, 2011 6:55 AM
20I like how they have different varieties of foods so we don't have the same exact
food every day.
Sep 28, 2011 6:53 AM
21That they serve chocolate milk and other drinks I like. Also different snacks like
cookies and chips.
Sep 28, 2011 6:52 AM
22i dont know Sep 28, 2011 6:51 AM
23I like that they have naked juice.Sep 28, 2011 6:50 AM
24nothing Sep 28, 2011 6:50 AM
25The Naked Juice Sep 28, 2011 6:48 AM
9 of 17
Page 2, Q8. What one thing do you like best about your school lunch program that you would never want
changed?
26The service quality Sep 28, 2011 6:47 AM
27N/A Sep 28, 2011 6:46 AM
28N/A Sep 28, 2011 6:17 AM
29The desserts served are very good.Sep 27, 2011 12:44 PM
30The cookies Sep 27, 2011 12:35 PM
31The people are nice, I like that there is yogurt and cookies. Only descent thing is
mac & cheese and ONLY cheese quesadillas. and drink choices.. but they need
juices like apple and orange juice
Sep 27, 2011 12:22 PM
32Nothing, The food is not very good and they come in small portions for a high
price. The only descent things are the snacks/sides and Mac n' Cheese. The
people are nice though, and the food tastes pretty bad.
Sep 27, 2011 12:21 PM
33the gatorade Sep 27, 2011 12:15 PM
34The snack bar.Sep 27, 2011 12:12 PM
35cookies!!!!!!! (:Sep 27, 2011 12:10 PM
36THE COOKKIES!!!!!!!!111!!!!1111!11 Sep 27, 2011 12:10 PM
37Cinnamon Muffins Sep 27, 2011 12:07 PM
38cookies Sep 27, 2011 12:07 PM
39the gatorade, chips and the nice people Sep 27, 2011 12:04 PM
40nohting Sep 27, 2011 12:03 PM
41nothing i hate it Sep 27, 2011 12:02 PM
42lipton ice tea Sep 27, 2011 12:02 PM
43It's fine.Sep 27, 2011 12:00 PM
44I like the snacks offered. Like the muffins.Sep 27, 2011 12:00 PM
45being able to heat up your food and to hang with friends Sep 27, 2011 10:55 AM
46being able to talk Sep 27, 2011 10:54 AM
47the cookies being served Sep 27, 2011 10:53 AM
48The free water.Sep 27, 2011 10:48 AM
49That we are allowed to sit where we please.Sep 27, 2011 10:46 AM
50Being able to talk with my friends.Sep 27, 2011 10:45 AM
10 of 17
Page 2, Q8. What one thing do you like best about your school lunch program that you would never want
changed?
51I would never want to change the time allotted the to eat Sep 27, 2011 10:45 AM
52The time Sep 27, 2011 10:44 AM
53The microwaves for when the food is really disgusting smelling.Sep 27, 2011 10:44 AM
54The microwaves Sep 27, 2011 10:40 AM
55The time given to eat.Sep 27, 2011 10:39 AM
56The microwaves.Sep 27, 2011 10:39 AM
57Cookies and snapple tea Sep 27, 2011 10:37 AM
58its fun Sep 27, 2011 7:00 AM
59N/A Sep 27, 2011 6:45 AM
60cookies Sep 27, 2011 6:45 AM
61The Mac and cheese, parfaits, gogurt, cookies Sep 27, 2011 6:42 AM
62Cookies Sep 27, 2011 6:40 AM
63the variety of food Sep 27, 2011 6:37 AM
64I like the cookies.Sep 27, 2011 6:34 AM
65the quality of service-the people are so caring and tend to every need a student
has
Sep 27, 2011 6:00 AM
66Snapple Sep 27, 2011 5:56 AM
67NUFFIN Sep 27, 2011 5:49 AM
68having food Sep 27, 2011 5:47 AM
69I don't know, I haven't eaten a school lunch 4th grade.Sep 27, 2011 5:46 AM
70How kind the servers are.Sep 27, 2011 5:44 AM
71... V8 Sep 27, 2011 5:43 AM
72Nothing Sep 27, 2011 5:42 AM
73the cookies and chineese food Sep 27, 2011 5:40 AM
74I like the chinese fried rice.Sep 27, 2011 5:39 AM
75Nothing Sep 27, 2011 5:39 AM
76Cookies Sep 27, 2011 5:39 AM
11 of 17
Page 2, Q8. What one thing do you like best about your school lunch program that you would never want
changed?
77the cookies, and the chinese food Sep 27, 2011 5:38 AM
78the food that is offered Sep 27, 2011 5:36 AM
79cookies Sep 27, 2011 5:34 AM
80Naked and banana muffins Sep 27, 2011 5:33 AM
81The cookies and drinks Sep 27, 2011 5:33 AM
82I liked it when the prices were cheaper and the food was better, we used to get
more for our money.
Sep 27, 2011 5:31 AM
83the people are very nice to me.Sep 27, 2011 5:31 AM
84the dining hall Sep 27, 2011 5:29 AM
85Healthy Eating Choices Sep 27, 2011 5:29 AM
86cookies Sep 27, 2011 5:27 AM
87The servers are nice.Sep 27, 2011 5:25 AM
88...Sep 27, 2011 5:24 AM
89How the male servers look.Sep 27, 2011 5:21 AM
90The cookies, and thats about it!!!Sep 27, 2011 5:18 AM
91The kindness of the employees. :)Sep 27, 2011 5:16 AM
13 of 17
Page 2, Q9. If you could change on thing about your school lunch program, what would it be?
1add more choices of snacks and chips other than sun chips and rice crispiesOct 19, 2011 1:54 PM
2What we serve Oct 9, 2011 5:22 PM
3THE FOOD 100%Oct 9, 2011 5:03 PM
4The food doesn't look that good, especially the vegetables. I think the healthy
approach should just be dropped because everyone just buys the chips and
cookies usually since the main meals do not taste that good and the vegetables
smell bad and look very unappetizing.
Oct 4, 2011 2:14 PM
5Prices Oct 4, 2011 8:13 AM
6The time limit that we have to eat could possibly be a little bit longer about 5
minutes i guess but its ok.
Oct 4, 2011 8:06 AM
7I would change the serving lines. It is very crowded and takes too long/Oct 3, 2011 5:53 PM
8EVERY THING!!!!!!Oct 3, 2011 6:33 AM
9The food quality and the food Oct 1, 2011 2:26 PM
10prices and the smell and the food and how terrible it tastes sometimes Sep 30, 2011 8:23 AM
11I would have more than one line so it will go much faster and i would have the
same food everyday. Like have a pizza line then a sandwich line then the meal
line
Sep 30, 2011 7:21 AM
12To lower the prices to around 2 15$Sep 29, 2011 6:29 PM
13THE QUALITY AND CHOICES OF FOOD Sep 29, 2011 5:54 PM
14I would change the portions of the food/vegetables. Many times I have gotten
unreasonably small portions for what I pay for.
Sep 29, 2011 5:51 PM
15A different caterer.Sep 29, 2011 4:06 PM
16the long lines Sep 29, 2011 3:23 PM
17no more victual; bring food in from chick-fil-a, and like that Sep 28, 2011 12:12 PM
18get way cheaper and yummyer food people Sep 28, 2011 11:33 AM
19It would be the expensiveness of the lunch.Sep 28, 2011 7:03 AM
20Last year we were able to eat out side no matter the wether or grade. I would like
that to happen this year too. Also to be able to have a choice to eat with the DP
students would be fantastic.
Sep 28, 2011 6:55 AM
21I think we should have a mini coffee shop or pastry shop that is open every once
in a while for the students to experience.
Sep 28, 2011 6:53 AM
22We would like to have a coffee shop where we can sit, do homework, and have
coffee. Also, have different stands for different foods from different resturaunts.
Sep 28, 2011 6:52 AM
14 of 17
Page 2, Q9. If you could change on thing about your school lunch program, what would it be?
Ex, Chick - Fill- A, Taco Bell, etc.
23the price of the food Sep 28, 2011 6:51 AM
24Bigger Naked juice bottles.Sep 28, 2011 6:50 AM
25get hot and sexy servers and cashiers Sep 28, 2011 6:50 AM
26BIGGER Bottles of naked juice and better food Sep 28, 2011 6:48 AM
27The pricing Sep 28, 2011 6:47 AM
28Less expensive food.Sep 28, 2011 6:46 AM
29More freedom about where we can eat our lunches...outside would be nice for
those who so choose to eat outside.
Sep 28, 2011 6:17 AM
30It would be good to get a better server for the computers that process the lunch
orders so the line will move along faster.
Sep 27, 2011 12:44 PM
31The prices Sep 27, 2011 12:35 PM
32I want the school to have "normal" and "common" food... not random food from
dif. countries. I want the school to serve chick-fil-a or subway instead of "home"
cooked meals every day. The food needs to be American food and maybe have
grilled cheese, hard crunchy tacos, nachos, italian subs with only turkey and
cheese, spaghetti (w/ out meat or sauce, but butter is appropriate), mac &
cheese, cereal, pizza, and other regular foods. we need to have more side food
choices and not all of them have to be super healthy because the school food is
probably just as bad. we need more choices of food and not only one "main"
meal.
Sep 27, 2011 12:22 PM
33To have actual food. IF the food was actually good and normal, THEN i would
probably eat the lunch at least 3 times a week. Having cold sandwiches and hot
sandwiches would also be good, in the questionnaire it asked if the sandwiches
were good, but we have none.
Sep 27, 2011 12:21 PM
34i want this school to have ego waffles and chick filia and pizza every
wednesdays and Dr. pepper
Sep 27, 2011 12:15 PM
35I would like it if the teachers got food free.Sep 27, 2011 12:12 PM
36not the cookies Sep 27, 2011 12:10 PM
37need more lunch lines and more tables. grape drinks, cooooorn brad, kfc,
watermelon
Sep 27, 2011 12:10 PM
38The taste of the food.Sep 27, 2011 12:09 PM
39More Cinnamon Muffins and Deserts Sep 27, 2011 12:07 PM
40a bigger dinning hall, larger portions Sep 27, 2011 12:07 PM
41the food Sep 27, 2011 12:04 PM
15 of 17
Page 2, Q9. If you could change on thing about your school lunch program, what would it be?
42nothing Sep 27, 2011 12:03 PM
43everything the food is over priced and bad the quality and quanity is bad also
you are not allowed to bring any food also i want to change back to the old food
service
Sep 27, 2011 12:02 PM
44i would like to change i back to the lunch program we had before this one.Sep 27, 2011 12:02 PM
45More choices of entrees.Sep 27, 2011 12:00 PM
46Nothing really.Sep 27, 2011 12:00 PM
47the food Sep 27, 2011 10:55 AM
48going off campus for lunch Sep 27, 2011 10:54 AM
49different food Sep 27, 2011 10:53 AM
50The food served.Sep 27, 2011 10:48 AM
51More lunch lines and tables so you don't have to wait in line as long and you can
easily find seats.
Sep 27, 2011 10:46 AM
52Give me more cookies, and be allowed to change rooms during lunch, and better
food.
Sep 27, 2011 10:45 AM
53The food does NOT taste good, the lines are long, we have to stay in after we're
gone finishing.
Sep 27, 2011 10:45 AM
54The lunches, and milk Sep 27, 2011 10:44 AM
55Lower the prices. The quality of the food is bad and the price is high which is
outrageous. If the quality of the food was heightend and the price was lower then
I would buy more often.
Sep 27, 2011 10:44 AM
56The people tellin you that you can only cross back and forth a couple times then
keep you in one room that you don't want to be in.
Sep 27, 2011 10:40 AM
57Lower prices for food.Sep 27, 2011 10:39 AM
58Need more vegetarian main meal options.Sep 27, 2011 10:39 AM
59The cashier being able to speak english Sep 27, 2011 10:37 AM
60the food Sep 27, 2011 7:00 AM
61N/A Sep 27, 2011 6:45 AM
62everything else Sep 27, 2011 6:45 AM
63Change the g2 Gatorade to regular gatorade. No one cares if it's low calorie,
that's what water is for. And make the veggies less oily. And make a salad bar
because whenever I get a salad it has olives all over it and there's disgusting
water at the bottom of the pan.
Sep 27, 2011 6:42 AM
16 of 17
Page 2, Q9. If you could change on thing about your school lunch program, what would it be?
64Everything Sep 27, 2011 6:40 AM
65the food lines Sep 27, 2011 6:37 AM
66Keep food warm for last lunch.Sep 27, 2011 6:34 AM
67The food is sometimes hit or miss. Sometimes it's really good (like the mac and
cheese) but other times it doesn't seem appetizing.
Sep 27, 2011 6:34 AM
68the foods and prices-we need more meal options everybody basically sustains
off the cookies, but they are too expensive also, by the time older students enter
the lunch room, the main meal is already finished. i think lunch count should be
taken so the amount of food that needs to be made can be better assessed.
Sep 27, 2011 6:00 AM
69Chick-Fa-La Sep 27, 2011 5:56 AM
70More vegetarian options Sep 27, 2011 5:49 AM
71better food Sep 27, 2011 5:47 AM
72To cater Chick-Fi-La.Sep 27, 2011 5:46 AM
73I don't know Sep 27, 2011 5:44 AM
74have chick fil a and more choices of food Sep 27, 2011 5:43 AM
75Chick-Fil-A choice added Sep 27, 2011 5:42 AM
76Serve chik filla please! :)Sep 27, 2011 5:40 AM
77Bring back the baked chips and serve more chinese food.Sep 27, 2011 5:39 AM
78The prices to be lower, the items are way over expensive and we should have
chick fila
Sep 27, 2011 5:39 AM
79- Chick-Fil-A - Izze - Ice Cream Machine Sep 27, 2011 5:39 AM
80get bigger bottles of the Naked Juice, and please get chik-fil-a Sep 27, 2011 5:38 AM
81the prices Sep 27, 2011 5:36 AM
82the food Sep 27, 2011 5:34 AM
83The main course Sep 27, 2011 5:33 AM
84prices and food prices Sep 27, 2011 5:33 AM
85get better food for a much cheaper price.Sep 27, 2011 5:31 AM
86The look and smell of the food is not good, the taste is satisfactory.Sep 27, 2011 5:31 AM
87nothing Sep 27, 2011 5:29 AM
88For it to look appetizing Sep 27, 2011 5:29 AM
17 of 17
Page 2, Q9. If you could change on thing about your school lunch program, what would it be?
89shorter lines, cheaper cookies Sep 27, 2011 5:27 AM
90That there are more options and choices even though were a small school.Sep 27, 2011 5:25 AM
91Something decent to eat like chick-fila, even mcdonalds would be healthier than
the current program. Also vegetarian.
Sep 27, 2011 5:24 AM
92The number of choices per lunch on each day. There aren't many.Sep 27, 2011 5:21 AM
93Everything els!!!Sep 27, 2011 5:18 AM
94Fresher food Sep 27, 2011 5:17 AM
95The price. It's much to expensive for those of us who have to pay for our own
meals…
Sep 27, 2011 5:16 AM
Page 1 of 1
WESTLAKE ACADEMY AGENDA ITEM
Curriculum: PYP/MYP/DP Meeting Date: February 6, 2012
Staff Contact: Ben Nibarger Report
Administrative Coordinator
Subject: Follow-up Report on Student Withdrawals
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In the September 2011 Board of Trustees workshop additional information regarding student withdrawals
was requested. The attached report provides information from FY 2008-09 through the current fiscal year
on student withdrawals. This report provides analysis and recommendations to improve the Academy’s
retention rate.
APPLICABLE STRATEGIC PLAN DESIRED OUTCOME
High Student Achievement
Strong Parent & Community Connections
Financial Stewardship & Sustainability
Student Engagement – Extracurricular activities
Effective Educators & Staff
WESTLAKE ACADEMY VALUES
Academic Achievement
PYP, MYP, DP (IB Continuum)
Caring Environment
Fiscal Stewardship
Communication/Transparency
Engaged Stakeholders
Maximizing Each Child’s Potential
FISCAL IMPACT
Funded Not Funded N/A
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED/ OPTIONS
Recommendations from staff on this topic are contained in the Report. Since this is a report, no
action required per the Council/Board policy for its meetings (this was put in place to
streamline the Board/Council meetings). However, per the Board Council policy, a Board
member may request that a Report be discussed at the meeting, if so desired.
ATTACHMENTS
Report: Follow-up on Student Withdrawals
2
Contents
Background & Introduction ................................................................................................................... 3
Annual Withdrawal Comparison ............................................................................................................ 3
Student Population ............................................................................................................................ 4
Withdrawals by Grade ....................................................................................................................... 4
Withdrawals by Gender ..................................................................................................................... 5
Withdrawals by Length of Enrollment ............................................................................................... 6
Analysis by Class ................................................................................................................................. 6
Significant Findings ................................................................................................................................ 7
Recommendations ................................................................................................................................. 8
Tables & Figures
Table 1 – Student Population (FY 03/04 - 11/12) .................................................................................. 4
Figure 1 - Leaver Data Analysis .............................................................................................................. 3
Figure 2 - Withdrawals by Percentage ................................................................................................... 4
Figure 3 - Cumulative Student Withdrawals by Grade .......................................................................... 5
Figure 4 - Withdrawals by Gender ......................................................................................................... 5
Figure 5 - Cumulative Student Withdrawals by Year of Entry ............................................................... 6
Figure 6 – Cumulative Student Turnover by Graduating Class .............................................................. 6
8
Recommendations
Based upon the review of data and subsequent analysis, several action items have been indentified and
will be ongoing each school year. The data collected through these initiatives will allow the Academy
administration and Board of Trustees to better monitor the student population and increase student
retention.
1. Continue to collect and monitor data for changes in the student population
2. Conduct a student exit survey with all students who exited the Academy in FY 2010-11 and FY
2011-12
3. Identify areas of interest for students earlier and try to provide options
4. Work with the Counselors and Coordinators to further develop and enhance the on-boarding
process to improve parent and student education/retention
Page 1 of 1
WESTLAKE ACADEMY AGENDA ITEM
Curriculum: PYP/MYP/DP Meeting Date: February 6, 2012
Staff Contact: Tom Brymer Report
Subject: Possible Charter School Intervention in the Current School Finance Litigation
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
As a member of the Texas Charter School Association (TCSA), Westlake Academy recently
received a report from the TCSA recommending that Texas charter schools intervene in the
current school finance litigation. This litigation is intended to force the State Legislature to
adequately fund public education in our state. Presently this litigation has been spear headed by
independent school districts. This effort would bring charter schools “to the table” in a formal
manner to resolve this issue in the courts prior to the Legislature convening in its next session.
The primary argument in this lawsuit would be that the Legislature has abdicated its
constitutional duty in regards to providing charter schools with substantially equal access for
revenue for facilities necessary for an adequate and efficient system.
APPLICABLE STRATEGIC PLAN DESIRED OUTCOME
High Student Achievement
Strong Parent & Community Connections
Financial Stewardship & Sustainability
Student Engagement – Extracurricular activities
Effective Educators & Staff
WESTLAKE ACADEMY VALUES
Maximizing Personal Development
Academic Excellence
Respect for Self and Others
Personal Responsibility
Compassion and Understanding
FISCAL IMPACT
Funded Not Funded N/A
TCSA estimates a cost, at this time, of participation in this lawsuit of $2.00 per student which for
Westlake Academy would total approximately $1,200.00. Funds are available for funding our
participation in this effort, should we choose to join it.
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED/ OPTIONS
This is report, thus no Board action necessary unless a Board member wishes to remove it for
Board discussion. Staff recommends participating in this lawsuit per TCSA’s proposal. Unless
indicated otherwise by the Board, Staff will bring a resolution forward by the end of this month
for the Board’s approval to participate in this lawsuit per TCSA’s proposal.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Report dated 2-2-12 Concerning Charter School Intervention in the Current School Finance
Litigation.
2
at the next school board meeting, including about the possibility of the school contributing $2.00 per student
to be directed towards the litigation costs.
The financial support will not only help fund the lawsuit, but, it also
will provide a strong showing that Texas charter schools believe they have a stake in this matter and are ready
and willing to fight for funding equity for their students. Such a showing will also strongly support TCSA’s
efforts in securing philanthropic funding for these efforts. While we ask that you discuss the possibility of
funding this effort at your board’s next meeting, no action for a funding decision is required at this time.
2. TCSA must secure philanthropic funding to pursue the litigation.
Additionally, TCSA must secure funding for this litigation effort from the philanthropic community. We
continue to prioritize our efforts towards securing such funding. Without the philanthropic support, we will be
unable to proceed. We have received favorable feedback, but no formal funding commitments to date.
Whether or not we receive sufficient funding to become involved in the litigation, be assured that TCSA will
continue to work with members of the legislative and executive branches to push for school finance reforms
that place charter schools on equal footing with school districts.
Hearing From You
We would be honored to have your school’s support of this important work to advance the interests of charter
school students in Texas. For your consideration, I have attached several pieces of background information:
1. Summary of Charter Schools’ Legal Position: “Shortchanged Charter Schools”
2. Description of the Four ISD Plaintiff Groups
3. History of School Finance Litigation in Texas
Once you have reviewed this material, please call or send me an email of your thoughts and questions. We
want to report your impressions to our potential funders and the TSCA Board of Directors as soon as possible.
If you cannot reach me, be certain to speak to Denise Pierce or Veronica Garcia of our office. These two ladies
are working very closely with me on this project.
Sincerely,
David Dunn
Executive Director
4
Similarly, charter school students perform well under Texas’ Alternative Education Accountability
procedures, which are reserved for schools that serve a majority of highly at-risk students. Under the AEA
procedures, higher percentages of African-American, Hispanic, and Economically Disadvantaged charter school
students passed the TAKS test than their traditional school district peers. The chart below shows charter
performance in red; traditional school district performance is shown in gray.
Finally, Texas charter schools account for a quarter of the state’s most fiscally efficient public schools,
even though they represent just over 2% of the student population.2
According to the Texas Comptroller of
Public Accounts in its annual Financial Allocation Study for Texas (FAST), these charter schools have improved
student achievement while keeping expenditures relatively low. These charters, like many others, have proven
to be good stewards of the state’s money. All of these strides attest the positive gains made by the charter
school movement for the benefit of Texas school children.
II. Charter Schools Continually Shortchanged
Despite the academic gains and fiscal accomplishments of open-enrollment charter schools, the State
Legislature has continually shortchanged them, primarily because the State fails to provide direct capital
2 http://www.fastexas.org/results/index.php/ as of January 6, 2011.
5
funding for the construction or renovation of charter school facilities. 3
Charter schools also have limited capacity to serve meals to lower-income students. While a “given” in
traditional public schools, USDA approved kitchen facilities are a luxury that many charter schools cannot
afford. Thus, charter schools that provide a free and reduced lunch program without appropriate kitchen
facilities must seek other sources for meals, such as external catering, often at costs far exceeding the
federally-subsidized rates – further eating into operational dollars.
Consequently, charter schools are
forced to spend operating dollars to support the cost of acquiring instructional facilities, a burden that
necessarily drops funding available for instructional supports like teachers, software, computers,
manipulatives, lab supplies, tutors, counselors, nurses, and more. Further, charter school facilities often are
too small. Not only are classrooms typically cramped, but charter school buildings often lack libraries, science
labs, computer labs, gymnasia, lunch rooms, and other quality instructional spaces.
The State Legislature has taken small steps to address the need for charter school facilities, but it has
never acted to directly appropriate state aid. In 2001, the Legislature authorized the Texas Public Finance
Authority (TPFA) to establish a non-profit corporation to act on behalf of the state to issue revenue bonds for
charter schools, but this law did not appropriate any funding to secure or renovate instructional facilities.4
Similarly, in 2009 the Legislature approved a credit enhancement program that permits the
Commissioner of Education to set aside a small portion of the Foundation School Program to enhance charter
school bond debt, so long as the state’s portion is matched by private funding.
5
The Commissioner of Education recently declared charter schools eligible for the state’s New
Instructional Facilities Allotment (NIFA) program, but that program funds only operational expenses associated
with a new building.
But, like the 2001 TPFA
program, the credit enhancement program does not provide for direct state aid. Since the State has not
secured a private donor for the program’s matching requirement, the credit enhancement program is not
operational and is of no effect for charter schools.
6
Most recently, in June 2011, the Legislature passed Senate Bill 1,
It is not intended for capital expenditures such as the purchase, construction, or
renovation of a school facility. Even worse, the Legislature completely eliminated NIFA funding during the
2011 Legislative Session.
7
3 Shortchanged Charters: How Funding Disparities Hurt Texas’ Charter Schools, May 2011 by the Colorado League of
Charter Schools, the Texas Charter Schools Association, and the National Alliance for Public School Charters. See, as of
February 1, 2012:
a bill that grants charter districts
access to the state’s Permanent School Fund Bond Guarantee Program. Once fully operational, the PSF
program will guarantee charter school bond debt and significantly reduce the borrowing cost for new charter
school construction. Yet, the PSF Guarantee will apply only to charter schools determined to raise facilities
funding through a new bond transaction and will be limited still to only those charters that meet the strict
eligibility guidelines; it is not direct state aid for charter school facilities.
http://www.txcharterschools.org/sites/default/files/resources/Shortchanged-Texas_050611.pdf
4 Tex. Educ. Code § 53.351 (West 2010).
5 Tex. Educ. Code § 45.301 et. seq. (West 2010).
6 See, Tex. Educ. Code § 42.158 (West 2010) and 19 Tex. Admin. Code § 61.1034 (2012)(Texas Educ. Agency, New
Instructional Facility Allotment).
7 Act of June 29, 2011, 82nd Leg., 1st C.S., §§ 59.01 – 59.21.
6
The state’s history shows that it has failed to solve the problem of charter facilities by setting up
corporations to sell charter revenue bonds and putting up funding to “back” charter school indebtedness for
construction and renovation. Sadly, the State has never moved to the “front,” as it is constitutionally required
to do, to anticipate and directly provide funding for appropriate facilities for public school children enrolled in
open enrollment charter schools. The state’s back-leaning posture has forced charter schools for 15 years to
find their own solutions, whether to use scarce instructional resources to fund the capital improvements, to
find angel donors, or to secure grants from private foundations. Enough is enough. The time for the
Legislature to move to the front is now. Shortchanged charter schools need the Foundation’s support to apply
judicial and political pressure to push the Legislature to ensure relief for open-enrollment charter schools and
their students.
III. Litigation Strategy to Apply Judicial Pressure
In keeping with the public momentum surging from the school finance litigation that has been filed
since October 2011 by four separate school district plaintiff groups
A. Output and Outcome Measures
8
TCSA proposes to hire the law firm of Schulman, Lopez & Hoffer (“the Schulman firm”) to prosecute
charter claims before the trial court. The Schulman firm represents over 50 open enrollment charter schools,
the most of any other law firm in the State. Because of the firm’s breadth of charter school work and its
decades long practice representing charter schools, they are well suited to represent charter school interests
before the trial court.
, TCSA will hire a team of outside lawyers
to sue the State of Texas on behalf of 6-12 pre-selected charter school parents, students, and schools. The
lawsuit will be filed in state district court in Travis County, Texas, which is the required venue for all lawsuits
against the State.
The target is to file the initial petition by February 29th , 2012. Our expected short term outcome in
district court will be for the judge to issue written findings that:
1. the charter school plaintiffs are permitted to intervene in the lawsuits filed by the school
district plaintiffs;
2. all charter-related plaintiffs have standing to pursue their legal claim against the State of
Texas; and
3. the charter school plaintiffs’ complaints about the lack of facilities funding are meritorious.
On appeal to the Supreme Court of Texas, charter schools earn intermediate victory if the High Court
issues a written opinion confirming that the charter school plaintiffs have standing to pursue their claims and
8 For a discussion of the claims filed by each of the school district plaintiff groups, see the attached summary. The
charters’ legal claim about facilities funding does not coincide with the school districts’ claims, but it is important
nonetheless for charter schools to intervene in the present school finance lawsuit. Foremost is the matter of judicial
efficiency; the court will expect and appreciate the ability to adjudicate these various school finance claims at once.
Second, because the school districts challenge the school finance system itself – i.e., the amount of money allocated from
the state and the particular funding formulas that drive state dollars to individual schools - future funding for open
enrollment charter schools is inextricably linked to the outcome of this litigation. Any remedy the courts might fashion in
response to the school districts’ equity, adequacy and efficiency claims will impact open enrollment charter schools as well.
8
‘A general diffusion of knowledge being essential to the preservation of the
liberties and rights of the people, it shall be the duty of the Legislature of the
State to establish and make suitable provision for the support and maintenance
of an efficient system of public free schools.’
One means for establishing "an efficient system of public free schools" is to create and make suitable provision
for school districts. Another, entirely sufficient answer to this mandate, and exactly what the Legislature has
done, is the establishment of the charter school system alongside its system of traditional school districts.
Even though the school finance jurisprudence developed over the past 22 years has focused on the
Legislature’s reliance on school district property taxes as a method of school finance, the planned charter
school litigation is unique in that it will bring three completely different sets of arguments before the state
courts: foremost the matter of the lack of facilities funding, and secondarily matters relating to the arbitrary
funding formulas and the arbitrary charter school cap.
The Court has found that implicit in the command of Article VII, Section 1 of the Texas Constitution “is
the State’s duty to provide all districts with substantially equal access to the operations and facilities funding
necessary for a general diffusion of knowledge.” Efficiency requires substantially equal access to revenue for
facilities necessary for an adequate system. As the Court stated, “An efficient system of public education
requires not only classroom instruction, but also the classrooms where that instruction is to take place. These
components of an efficient system, instruction and facilities, are inseparable.”
Lack of Facilities Funding
The school districts complain in their lawsuit that, even after direct State funding for facilities, there
remains unequalized access to local ad valorem taxes for their facilities. However, charter schools receive no
direct State aid to support the construction, acquisition, improvement, or renovation of instructional facilities,
they have no authority to impose taxes at all, and no authority to acquire real property via eminent domain.
The charter school funding scheme arbitrarily adopted by the Legislature requires charters to lease or
purchase their facilities with a revenue stream that was never found by the Legislature to be sufficient to cover
both operating and capital expenses. Students served through charter schools in Texas typically lack access to
facilities comparable to those of school districts, and face compounding deficits in services as operational
funds are used instead for facilities.
Thus, the Legislature has abdicated its constitutional duty in regards to providing charter schools with
substantially equal access to revenue for facilities necessary for an adequate and efficient system.
The Legislature can choose its devices under Article VII, Section 1 almost without check, but not wholly
without check. Its choices must not be arbitrary, and the laws must not, of themselves, work inequities. As the
Court said,
This would
be the primary and central argument to a potential charter school lawsuit.
‘Equal protection of laws is secured if the statutes do not subject the individual to arbitrary
exercise of the powers of government. It is well settled that legislation is not open to objection
if all who are brought under its influence are treated alike in the same circumstances.’
9
In the case of charter schools, they are not treated alike in the same circumstances. Where the
system of schools operated via school districts is provided direct facilities funding and operations funding, the
Legislature has chosen, arbitrarily, to only provide operations funding to charter schools.
Secondly, the school districts complain that the formulas driving their funding are unconstitutionally
“arbitrary” because they bear no relationship to the costs they were designed to reflect. Most of these
formulas were set based on economic studies done in the 1980s. Yet the Legislature uses these inaccurate
data to shift resources from school losers to winners without rhyme or reason, even in the teeth of findings that
they greatly understate true costs.
Arbitrary Funding Formulas as Applied to Charter Schools
These are good technical arguments and factually correct ones. However, what the school district
plaintiffs do not raise is that none of the studies producing the current formulas considered the cost structure
presented by statewide charter schools operating public schools in many different regions of the state, or a
tiny, but effective, charter school operating inside the urban core of a large city. These formulas must be
re-examined with a view to the special needs of charter schools.
Similarly, the district plaintiffs explain that “all districts receive a cost of education adjustment to
reflect costs beyond districts’ control; smaller districts receive weights or adjustments based on their small size
and/or sparsity, and so on.” However, these adjustments are not made for charter schools based on their
costs. Instead, the Legislature has provided only a shadow of them for charter schools, each receiving the
same adjustment regardless of its costs. Thus, charter schools suffer from the arbitrariness alleged by the
district plaintiffs, and much more.
While this argument of arbitrary funding formulas will not take center stage during the litigation, it
merits discussion so as to preserve the record. If the Legislature is to study and revise its system of funding
costs, weights and measures, it must study the impact of its decisions on Texas’ charter school students.
Lastly, there is an innovative argument that may be made challenging the constitutionality of the
Legislature’s arbitrarily imposed charter school cap. While the efficiency provision of the Education Clause of
the Texas Constitution implicates funding access issues, it is not limited to those issues, the Court has stated.
Additionally, there are many indications that the Court is dissatisfied with the contours of the current school
finance debate, shaped almost entirely by the State’s overreliance on the school district tax base. As such, this
litigation would bring forward a completely new argument; the Legislature is violating the efficiency provision by
arbitrarily capping the number of public charter school systems at 215. After all, although charter school
systems currently make up about 2.5% of the public school students in Texas, approximately 25% of the most
efficient schools identified by the Texas Comptroller in the Financial Allocation Study for Texas are
charter schools.
Arbitrary Charter School Cap
We believe the Court would take interest in this argument because the Court has been calling for a
wider conversation. In a number of passages, especially in recent cases, the Court has asked what issues it
10
was not being asked to consider, for lack of new voices:
‘Perhaps, as the dissent contends, public education could benefit from more competition,
but the parties have not raised this argument, and therefore we do not address it.[]’ ‘The
Legislature may well find many ways of improving the efficiency and adequacy of public
education—ways not urged by the parties to this case—that do not involve increased funding.’
What the Court is talking about is education reform. The time has come for Texas charter schools to
be heard in the school finance litigation. Charter schools are a promising lever for changing the larger system
of free public schools, but the Legislature has systematically starved it. Lack of facilities funding, arbitrary
funding formulas, and arbitrary caps are great barriers to reform. The Court seems almost to be calling on the
involvement of charter schools. Charter schools must answer this call.
Because the proposed legal theories for the charter school litigation are so broad, TCSA has the
privilege of casting a wide net to identify the most effective plaintiffs to represent the entire movement. After
discussions with charter school attorneys in other states who have experience in charter school finance
litigation, we have determined that the ideal plaintiffs will have the following characteristics:
C. Potential Plaintiffs
1. A charter school that:
a. is both academically and financially strong based on their performance against the state
and federal accountability standards; and
b. is willing to persist in the litigation;
2. A parent/student that
a. Believes strongly in the cause; and
b. Does not have any “skeletons in the closet”;
3. A taxpayer with similar characteristics as a parent/student
Additionally, in selecting charter schools, we want to ensure geographic and demographic diversity.
Based upon the criteria, we have narrowed TCSA’s member schools to 17 charter schools that we consider to
be the most ideal school plaintiffs. The list of those schools is enclosed as Appendix F. Of these, we expect
to engage four to six charter schools as final plaintiffs based on their boards’ willingness to sign on and persist.
Also, we expect to sign on four to six individually named plaintiffs who are parents and students at
one of the plaintiff charter schools. Additionally, we are considering including a taxpayer as a plaintiff as
well. The budget anticipates hiring a private investigator to conduct a thorough background check of
the individual plaintiffs.
IV. Public Relations Strategy to Apply Political Pressure
“Like sports rivals, traditional public school districts and charter schools historically have competed -
for students, funds and a winning reputation.”10
10 Mellon, Erica, Houston Chronicle, 12/6/11 “Charter Schools, Spring Branch ISD become partners”
Our play in the court of public opinion is critical to the Texas
charter school movement in order to increase student enrollment, lawmaker confidence, and overall
11
awareness about public charter schools.
Judging by the volume of coverage that the school finance lawsuits filed by traditional school districts
has already generated in 2011, it appears in 2012 that the lawsuit will remain a lead story for Texas
publications. This is an excellent opportunity to bring attention to the facilities funding disparity in the public
realm. Even if the legal courts deny our claims – the time is right to deliver our message that charter schools
deserve facilities funding to the public as all of the reporters and lawmakers are poised to listen, due to the
mere fact that the issue is timely and relevant.
In support of the legal advocacy for charters occurring in the courtroom, we intend to launch a
proactive public relations campaign with a short term goal to manage message surrounding the lawsuit, and a
long-term goal to share accurate, positive information about charter schools with a broader segment of the
public. Working with the VP of Public and Government Affairs at TCSA, the materials and overall tone should be
in step with the major messages for the Texas charter school movement as the 83rd legislative session begins
in 2013.
We will engage diverse strategies to achieve our goals including: a website (similar to the layout of
Arizona’s equity site http://www.studentequitynow.org <http://www.studentequitynow.org> ); managed talking
points for plaintiffs; periodic letters to the editor or op-eds; outreach and constant relationship building with
local print and television reporters; and ultimately small to large scale press conferences depending on court
action. In tandem, we will produce a documentary video highlighting the lives of charter students and families
to have a lasting product that brings emotion and clear understanding around the constitutional right to equal,
and fair funding in education.
By pursing this legal strategy, our movement has an opportunity to highlight charter school issues on a
substantial stage. A synchronized and savvy public relations element to this lawsuit is of great importance to
the future of our schools; we cannot neglect this piece of the battle.
VI. Conclusion
Charter schools are adding value to public education in Texas every day, but the Texas Legislature
continues to shortchange them. A combination of judicial pressure from the Texas courts and political pressure
from the media and the public will persuade members of the Legislature to adopt policy reforms that make
facilities funding directly accessible to charter school students. By supporting this endeavor, charter schools
across the state can stand united for the conditional rights due their students.
13
3. Violation of Article VII, §1 of the Texas Constitution
a. Suitability: The Legislature has violated the “suitable provision” because it is providing
insufficient means for achieving the goal of a general diffusion of knowledge.
4. Violation of Article I, §3 of the Texas Constitution
a. Equal Protection: The plaintiffs allege the school finance system fails to provide equal
protection to students in low-wealth school districts.
Texas School Coalition, represented by Haynes & Boone, LLP
1. Violation of Article VII, §1 of the Texas Constitution
a. Efficiency/Adequacy: The State is implementing a more demanding accountability and
assessment regime. However, during the 82nd Legislative Session the Legislature reduced
the Foundation School Program by $4 billion and $1.4 billion in grants. The current school
finance system is inadequate because it fails to provide for the general diffusion of
knowledge.
2. Violation of Article VIII, §1-e of the Texas Constitution
a. The current school finance system prevents districts from exercising meaningful discretion in
setting their tax rates, violating Article VIII, section 1-e of the Texas Constitution.
The Mexican-American Legal Defense & Educational Fund (MALDEF)
1. Violation of Article VII, §1 of the Texas Constitution
a. Efficiency/Equity: The current school finance system creates gaps in funding and tax rates
required to provide a general diffusion of knowledge between low wealth school districts and
high wealth school districts, violating the efficiency provision of Article VII, Section 1 of the
Texas Constitution.
2. Violation of Article VII, §1 of the Texas Constitution
a. Efficiency/Adequacy: The arbitrary and inadequate funding for English language learner and
low income students, in conjunction with current funding limitations, violates the efficiency
and suitability provisions of Article VII Section 1 of the Texas Constitution.
3. Violation of Article VIII, §1-e of the Texas Constitution
a. The current school finance system prevents districts from exercising meaningful discretion in
setting their tax rates, violating Article VIII, section 1-e of the Texas Constitution.
Thompson & Horton, LLP
1. Violation of Article VII, §1 of the Texas Constitution
a. Efficiency/Adequacy: The current school finance system is inadequate and fails to provide for
the general diffusion of knowledge.
2. Violation of Article VII, §1 of the Texas Constitution
a. Efficiency: The school finance system is inefficient, and arbitrarily funds districts at different
levels below the constitutionally required level of general diffusion of knowledge.
3. Violation of Article VIII, §1-e of the Texas Constitution
a. The current school finance system prevents districts from exercising meaningful discretion in
setting their tax rates, violating Article VIII, section 1-e of the Texas Constitution.
15
Constitution; and (4) public school financing system, viewed as whole, did not effectively impose statewide ad
valorem tax in violation of Texas Constitution.
The Court found that implicit in the command of Article VII, Section 1 “is the State’s duty to provide all districts
with substantially equal access to the operations and facilities funding necessary for a general diffusion of
knowledge.” They held that “the districts must have substantially equal access to the funding for a general
diffusion of knowledge for both operations and facilities needs.” They go on to state that if the Legislature
abdicates its duty with respect to either of these needs, they will have no choice but to hold that the school
finance system is unconstitutional in its entirety.12
However, in the Edgewood IV litigation, the Court found that the challenge to the school finance law based on
inadequate provision for facilities failed only because of an evidentiary void. The record lacked evidence of any
district that couldn’t provide the facilities necessary for a general diffusion of knowledge within the equalized
program and they noted that all school districts had access to equalized funding for facilities.
The Court notes for the first time that “efficiency” must be measured against both qualitative and financial
standards. The previous string of Edgewood cases had focused only on financial efficiency. It stated that as
long as the Legislature establishes a suitable regime, they may decide how the regime is administered. The
Court concludes that because the Legislature equates the provisions of a “general diffusion of knowledge” with
the provision of an accredited education, the accountability regime set forth in the Education Code meets the
Legislature’s constitutional obligation to provide for a general diffusion of knowledge.
In regards to financial efficiency, the Court states that school districts must have substantially equal access to
funding up to the legislatively defined level that achieves the constitutional mandate of a general diffusion of
knowledge. In other words, financial efficiency is equal to the substantial equal access to funds necessary to
provide an accredited education, since accreditation is the standard the Legislature has established which
meets the general diffusion of knowledge. The Court begins to fuse together the concept of financial efficiency
and adequacy. In Edgewood IV, the Court rejects the challenge based on adequacy, finding that the district
court found that every district could meet accreditation and other legal standards from the school finance
formula.
The Court considered whether the Texas school finance system has become a state ad valorem tax in violation
of Article 8, Section 1-e of the Texas Constitution in West Orange-Cove I.
West Orange-Cove v. Alanis (West Orange-Cove I) 2003
13
The Court states that the Legislature must meet the following standards: (1) the education provided must be
adequate, that is the public school system must accomplish that general diffusion of knowledge essential to
the preservation of the liberties & rights of the people; (2) the means adopted must be suitable; and (3) the
system itself must be efficient.
The Court repeats that constitutional efficiency does not require absolute equality of spending. Instead, the
Court holds that the constitutional standard of efficiency requires substantially equivalent access to revenue
only up to the point of the achievement of an adequate school system, also known as the legislatively defined
12 In Justice Hecht’s concurrence and dissent he states, “Disparities in funding facilities become constitutionally
significant only when they affect the efficiency of the system as a whole. The question is not whether the method
of funding facilities is inefficient, but whether that method makes the entire system inefficient. The answer on this
record is no.” This statement foreshadows part of the holding in the opinion in West Orange-Cove II, delivered by
Justice Hecht.
13 Article 8, Section 1-e of the Texas Constitution prohibits a state ad valorem tax.
16
level that achieves the constitutional mandate of a general diffusion of knowledge. The legislatively defined
level of an adequate education in West Orange Cove I is an accredited education. The Court states that it is
outside the scope of judicial authority to review the Legislature’s policy choices in determining what constitutes
an adequate education. Further, the Court notes that as long as the Legislature establishes a suitable regime
that provides for a general diffusion of knowledge, it may decide whether the regime should be administered
by a state agency, by the school districts themselves, or by any other means.
The Court considers the school districts’ standing and finds they have standing under Article 8 of the Texas
Constitution because they are being required to implement a statute which they allege is unconstitutional (the
school finance system).
The Court, in West Orange-Cove II, again considers whether the public school finance system has become an
unconstitutional state ad valorem tax. Additionally, it also considers whether the public school finance system
is inefficient, inadequate, and unsuitable. The Court held that the public school finance system was not
violative of Article VII, Section 1, but did find that the state's control of local taxation for education amounted to
an unconstitutional state property tax.
West Orange-Cove v. Neely (West Orange-Cove II) 2005
The Court finds three standards central to this case: (1) The public school system must be efficient. As
applied to public school finance, efficiency requires that all children must be afforded a substantially equal
opportunity to have access to educational funds; (2) Public education must achieve “a general diffusion of
knowledge”; the Court has labeled this standard “adequacy”; and (3) The provision made for public education
must be “suitable”. Suitability requires that the public school system be structured, operated, and funded so
that it can accomplish its purpose for all TX children.
The Court holds that the standard of review for determining whether the Legislature has met its constitutional
obligation to provide an adequate, efficient, and suitable public school finance system is arbitrariness. The
Court states, “It would be arbitrary, for example, for the Legislature to define the goals for accomplishing the
constitutionally required general diffusion of knowledge, and then to provide insufficient means for achieving
those goals.” However, the Court states, “If the Legislature’s choices are informed by guiding rules and
principles properly related to public education – that is, if the choices are not arbitrary – then the system does
not violate the constitutional provision.
The Court found that the Legislature had not acted arbitrarily in structuring and funding the public education
system. Evidence showed that standardized test scores had steadily improved and the National Assessment of
Educational Progress scores showed public education in Texas had improved relative to other states.
The Court noted the district court’s findings regarding the substandard condition of facilities. The Court repeats
their holding in Edgewood IV: “An efficient system of public education requires not only classroom instruction,
but also the classrooms where that instruction is to take place. These components of an efficient system,
instruction & facilities, are inseparable.” However, the Court goes on to state the efficiency requirement must
be applied to the two components together. This holding is a departure from that of Edgewood IV where the
Court stated that if the Legislature abdicated its duty with respect to either of these two components the Court
would have no choice but to find the school finance system unconstitutional in its entirety.
In West Orange-Cove II, the Court held, “Efficiency requires only substantially equal access to revenue for
facilities necessary for an adequate system.” The Court agreed with the proposition that to prove constitutional
inefficiency evidence that demonstrates an inability to provide for a general diffusion of knowledge without
additional facilities must be offered. Additionally, the Court found that disparities among school district in
17
available facilities itself are not proof of inefficiency without evidence that all the school districts’ needs are
similar.
For the first time in this string of school finance cases, the Court considers the school districts’ standing to
challenge the public school finance system under Article VII, Section 1. The Court states that the Legislature
requires school districts to achieve the goal of a “general diffusion of knowledge”; this requirement is expressly
imposed by statute.14
Because of the requirement imposed on school districts by the Legislature, the Court
states school districts have standing to insist that the Legislature obey the provision in Article VII, Section I
which requires the public school finance system to be efficient and adequate to provide a general diffusion of
knowledge.
The Court notes that public education can and often does improve with greater resources, just as it struggles
when resources are withheld, but more money does not guarantee better schools or more educated students.
It goes on to state, “There is substantial evidence that the public education system has reached the point
where continued improvement will not be possible absent significant change, whether that change take the
form of increased funding, improved efficiencies, or better methods of education.
While efficiency implicates funding access issues, the Court states, it’s not limited to those issues. Additionally,
the Court states, “Perhaps, as the dissent contends, public education could benefit from more competition, but
the parties haven’t raised this argument, and therefore we do not address it…The Legislature may well find
many ways of improving the efficiency and adequacy of public education, ways not urged by the parties to this
case, that don’t involve increased funding.”
14 The Court quotes what is current statute §11.002 in the Education Code: The school districts and charter
schools created in accordance with the laws of this state have the primary responsibility for implementing the
state's system of public education and ensuring student performance in accordance with this code.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
a. Discussion of Various Board Policies and Options Related to These Policies as
they Pertain Relate to Impacts on Finances, Facility Financing, and Enrollment.
(1 hour)
b. Discussion of Governance as illustrated in Dr. Brian Carpenter’s Charter School
Board University: An Introduction to Effective Charter School Governance;
Chapters 26-27. (15 min)
Westlake Academy
Item # 5 –
Discussion Items
Page 1 of 3
WESTLAKE ACADEMY AGENDA ITEM
Curriculum: PYP/MYP/DP Meeting Date: February 6, 2012
Staff Contact: Tom Brymer, Discussion
Superintendent
Subject: Discussion of Various Board Policies and Options Related to These Policies as
They Pertain Relate to Impacts on Finances, Facility Financing, and Enrollment
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This agenda item is a follow-up to Board discussion and information on this topic presented by
Staff at the January 23, 2012 Workshop. At that workshop the Board consensus was to pursue a
new cafetorium for the Primary Years’ grades. The Board also expressed a consensus preference
for the Organic Growth Model presented at that meeting, although no action was taken. The
purpose of this workshop agenda item is to revisit the discussions of the past several
months regarding enrollment, facilities, and the vision, values, and mission of Westlake
Academy within the context of Board’s previous decisions and policies that shape these
things for the school.
Background
At the January 9, 2012 meeting, the Board indicated a consensus that favored school
enrollment and facility expansion. However, the Board requested additional information
regarding another phased option focused on starting enrollment growth in the PYP grades (K-5)
to deal with growth and provide for facility needs. That option, presented at a January 23, 2012
workshop, would perform as follows:
• Year 1 (FY 11-12) of the 5 year planning period: design a PYP cafetorium
• Year 2 (FY12-13) of the 5 year planning period: construct the PYP cafetorium, as well
as purchase/install additional portable buildings
• Year 3 (FY 13-14) of the 5 year planning period: a.) open the new PYP cafetorium, b.)
increase PYP enrollment (K-5) to 5 sections adding 365 students, c.) bring on additional
teachers, d.) begin utilizing the new portable buildings, and d.) begin design of the
remaining $13 million in identified campus improvements for the Secondary Grades.
• Year 4 (FY14-15) of the 5 year planning period: commencing construction of the
remaining $13 million in campus improvements, as well as increase G6-12 student
enrollment by 100 students by increasing class size to 25.
• Year 5 (FY15-16) of the 5 year planning period: open the new $13 million in new
Secondary Grades campus facilities, as well as expand the Secondary Grades student
enrollment by adding a fourth section (149 new students)
As a part of the Council’s 2010 evaluation of the Superintendent, a performance goal for
that position was established to create a long range facility plan for Westlake Academy.
This was driven by the fact that the Board had approved moving forward with an
expanded block schedule for the secondary grades which required additional students.
These additional students were necessary to populate the desired new courses that would be
offered which, in turn, required additional teachers and the use of portable buildings. Use of
portable buildings increased the Board’s desire to have a long range plan for permanent campus
facilities.
Page 2 of 3
The Superintendent applied for a grant from the Hudson Foundation to hire a professional school
facility planner. The Town used this grant award to retain the services of Project Management
Services, Inc., led by Mr. Peter Hayes, a firm that has performed facility planning for several
Texas charter schools.
Mr. Hayes presented his report to the Board at their March 12, 2011 workshop. The report
identified the need for $13-15 million in campus facilities. Further, the report contained
recommendations on self-funding of these facilities via a large enrollment increase. Board
direction at that time was to schedule time at the Board’s annual planning retreat for
further discussion of what we now call the “Hayes Report”.
At the Board’s May 20, 2011 planning retreat, the Hayes Report was reviewed in greater
detail with the various projects in it broken down into capital projects and included in a draft of
the Town’s five (5) year Capital Improvement Plan. This was done so that the debt issuance
required to implement Hayes’ recommendations could be examined in conjunction with all Town
capital project requirements over this period. At this planning retreat, the Board’s direction to
Staff was to examine the feasibility of a more phased, incremental approach, as opposed to
the approach for facility construction recommended by the Hayes Report (which requires a large
enrollment increase to fund the facilities identified which would be constructed at one time).
During the Board’s June 9, 2011 budget workshop on the WA 2011-12 Budget, the Board
gave direction to have further Board discussion of this topic at an upcoming workshop.
This item was on the Board’s September 12, 2011 workshop agenda where additional
incremental options were presented by the Staff for Board discussion. At this workshop, the
Board requested some additional options be examined and brought back to them for
further discussion at a future workshop. Following the September 12, 2011 Board
workshop, Staff had numerous planning sessions, including one all-day session, to examine
the campus facility needs, the Hayes Report recommendations, the phased options
presented on September 12th, as well as the additional options the Board requested at that
time.
At the December 5, 2011 Board Workshop, per the Board’s request in September, the Staff
presented another report that identified other options that might be viable. In that report,
each option, whether new or previously identified, was been discussed and examined by
Staff within the following context:
1.) Does the option advance WA’s vision, values, and mission?
2.) Does the option achieve our Strategic Plan’s desired outcomes, thus moving us closer to
our Vision, Values, and Mission?
3.) Does the option provide for the Academy’s future financial viability (without which we
cannot achieve our Vision)?
At the January 9, 2012 workshop, Staff provided the Board with a report answering their
questions from the December 5, 2011 workshop. The Board indicated a consensus that
favored enrollment expansion, but wished to have the additional option described above
(i.e. begin with PYP enrollment growth) explored further.
That analysis was provided at a January 23, 2012 Board workshop. At that workshop the
Board consensus was to pursue a new cafetorium for the Primary Years’ grades. The
Board also expressed a consensus preference for the Organic Growth Model presented at
Page 3 of 3
that meeting, although no action was taken.
It should be noted that, during the entire course of these discussions, the Staff has provided the
Board with financial forecasts that show the Academy’s current operating deficit, and how each
option contributes to removing it or making it larger, while at the same time addressing or not
addressing the campus’ facilities.
APPLICABLE STRATEGIC PLAN DESIRED OUTCOME
High Student Achievement
Strong Parent & Community Connections
Financial Stewardship & Sustainability
Student Engagement – Extracurricular activities
Effective Educators & Staff
WESTLAKE ACADEMY VALUES
Maximizing Personal Development
Academic Excellence
Respect for Self and Others
Personal Responsibility
Compassion and Understanding
FISCAL IMPACT
Funded Not Funded N/A
Note: Fiscal impacts of the various options have been identified in order to facilitate the Board’s
deliberations on this subject at its workshops. Each of the options has varying financial impacts-
some positive, some negative.
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED/ OPTIONS
Review the information presented followed by Board discussion and provide Board direction to
Staff on this topic.
ATTACHMENT:
1. Excerpt from Town of Westlake Municipal Adopted Budget 2011-12 Fiscal Policies.
2. Excerpt from Westlake Academy Adopted Budget 2011-12 Fiscal Policies.
3. Excerpts from the current (FY11-12 ) WA Operating Budget.
diversified revenue system to protect the Academy from fluctuations in any one source due to
changes in local economic conditions which adversely impact that source.
B. REVENUE CLASSIFICANTION AND SOURCES. The revenues received by Westlake Academy are classified
into one of three broad categories: Federal, State or Local and come from the following sources :
• State Education funding
• State and Federal Grants
• General Donations – The Academy recognizes that private donations comprise a significant part of
the Westlake Academy budget. All funds received will become part of the budget and be subject to
appropriation for Academy general operations.
o Westlake Academy Foundation
o House of Commons
o Westlake Academy Athletic Club
o Local Merchants
• Specific Purpose Donations – Funds donated for a specific purpose
C. REVENUE MONITORING. Revenues as they are received will be regularly compared to budgeted
revenues and variances will be investigated. This process will be summarized in the appropriate
budget report.
V. EXPENDITURE CONTROL
• Appropriations – The point of budgetary control is at the function level in the General Fund and Special
Revenue Funds. When budget adjustments among functions are necessary, they must be approved by
the Board of Trustees.
• Current Funding Basis - The Academy shall operate on a current funding basis. Expenditures shall be
budgeted and controlled so as not to exceed current revenues plus the planned use of fund balance
accumulated through prior year savings. (The use of fund balance shall be guided by the Fund
Balance/Retained Earnings Policy Statements.)
• Avoidance of Operating Deficits - The Academy shall take immediate corrective actions if at any time
during the fiscal year expenditure and revenue re-estimates are such that an operating deficit (i.e.,
projected expenditures in excess of projected revenues) is projected at year-end. Corrective actions can
include a hiring freeze, expenditure reductions, or use of fund balance within the Fund. Use of fund
balance must be recommended by the Superintendent and approved by the Board of Trustees.
Expenditure deferrals into the following fiscal year, short-term loans, or use of one-time revenue
sources shall be avoided to balance the budget.
• Periodic Program Reviews - The Superintendent or his designate shall undertake periodic staff and
third-party reviews of Academy programs for both efficiency and effectiveness. Where appropriate,
privatization and contracting with other governmental agencies will be evaluated as alternative
approaches to service delivery. Service delivery which is determined to be inefficient and/or ineffective
shall be reduced in scope or eliminated.
• General and Administrative (G&A) Charges – To the extent practical, an annual analysis of G&A charges
will be performed and funding allocated, if available. The analysis shall involve an objective
consideration of the service demands currently being met by municipal staff to support Academy
Page 51
operations and a determination of factors that will continue to affect and increase the time needed for
the performance of these services. For example, new Academy staff requires additional support staff
time to perform tasks related to insurance, payroll, etc. Where feasible, G&A costs will be charged to all
funds for services of indirect general overhead costs, which may include general administration, finance, facility
use, personnel, technology, engineering, legal counsel, and other costs as deemed appropriate. The charges
will be determined through an indirect cost allocation study following accepted practices and procedures.
• Purchasing - The Academy shall make every effort to maximize any discounts offered by
creditors/vendors. Staff shall also use purchasing cooperatives as well as competitive bidding in
accordance with State law to attain the best possible price on goods and services.
• Prompt Payment - All invoices will be paid within 30 days of receipt in accordance with the prompt
payment requirements of State law.
• Salary - The Academy shall strive to maintain competitive salary levels for faculty and staff. A salary
survey will be conducted annually, sampling surrounding Independent School Districts and Charter
Schools, to create a comparison. The Academy will strive to maintain salary levels within three percent
(3%) of the median of surveyed schools.
VI. FUND BALANCE
• Fund Balance Reporting - The District shall report governmental fund balances per GASB 54 definitions
in the balance sheet as follows: Nonspendable, Restricted, Committed, Assigned, and Unassigned.
• General Fund Unassigned Fund Balance - The Academy shall strive to maintain the General Fund
unassigned fund balance at 45 days of operation.
• Use of Fund Balance - Fund Balance will be targeted to only be used with Board approval and can be
only be used for the following: emergencies, non-recurring expenditures, such as technology/FF&E
(furniture, fixtures and equipment), or major capital purchases that cannot be accommodated through
current year savings. Should such use reduce the balance below the appropriate level set as the
objective for that fund, recommendations will be made on how to restore it. The Board of Trustees shall
approve all commitments by formal action. The action to commit funds must occur prior to fiscal year-
end, to report such commitments in the balance sheet of the respective period, even though the amount
may be determined subsequent to fiscal year-end. A commitment can only be modified or removed by
the same formal action.
The Board of Trustees delegates the responsibility to assign funds to the Superintendent or his/her
designee. The Board of Trustees shall have the authority to assign any amount of funds. Assignments
may occur subsequent to fiscal year-end.
The Board of Trustees will utilize funds in the following spending order: Restricted, Committed,
Assigned, Unassigned
VII. INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONSHIPS
• Inter-local Cooperation in Delivering Services - In order to promote the effective and efficient delivery
of services, the Academy shall actively seek to work with other local entities in joint purchasing
consortium, sharing facilities, sharing equitably the costs of service delivery, and developing joint
programs to improve service to its students.
Page 52
diversified revenue system to protect the Academy from fluctuations in any one source due to
changes in local economic conditions which adversely impact that source.
B. REVENUE CLASSIFICANTION AND SOURCES. The revenues received by Westlake Academy are classified
into one of three broad categories: Federal, State or Local and come from the following sources :
• State Education funding
• State and Federal Grants
• General Donations – The Academy recognizes that private donations comprise a significant part of
the Westlake Academy budget. All funds received will become part of the budget and be subject to
appropriation for Academy general operations.
o Westlake Academy Foundation
o House of Commons
o Westlake Academy Athletic Club
o Local Merchants
• Specific Purpose Donations – Funds donated for a specific purpose
C. REVENUE MONITORING. Revenues as they are received will be regularly compared to budgeted
revenues and variances will be investigated. This process will be summarized in the appropriate
budget report.
V. EXPENDITURE CONTROL
• Appropriations – The point of budgetary control is at the function level in the General Fund and Special
Revenue Funds. When budget adjustments among functions are necessary, they must be approved by
the Board of Trustees.
• Current Funding Basis - The Academy shall operate on a current funding basis. Expenditures shall be
budgeted and controlled so as not to exceed current revenues plus the planned use of fund balance
accumulated through prior year savings. (The use of fund balance shall be guided by the Fund
Balance/Retained Earnings Policy Statements.)
• Avoidance of Operating Deficits - The Academy shall take immediate corrective actions if at any time
during the fiscal year expenditure and revenue re-estimates are such that an operating deficit (i.e.,
projected expenditures in excess of projected revenues) is projected at year-end. Corrective actions can
include a hiring freeze, expenditure reductions, or use of fund balance within the Fund. Use of fund
balance must be recommended by the Superintendent and approved by the Board of Trustees.
Expenditure deferrals into the following fiscal year, short-term loans, or use of one-time revenue
sources shall be avoided to balance the budget.
• Periodic Program Reviews - The Superintendent or his designate shall undertake periodic staff and
third-party reviews of Academy programs for both efficiency and effectiveness. Where appropriate,
privatization and contracting with other governmental agencies will be evaluated as alternative
approaches to service delivery. Service delivery which is determined to be inefficient and/or ineffective
shall be reduced in scope or eliminated.
• General and Administrative (G&A) Charges – To the extent practical, an annual analysis of G&A charges
will be performed and funding allocated, if available. The analysis shall involve an objective
consideration of the service demands currently being met by municipal staff to support Academy
Page 51
operations and a determination of factors that will continue to affect and increase the time needed for
the performance of these services. For example, new Academy staff requires additional support staff
time to perform tasks related to insurance, payroll, etc. Where feasible, G&A costs will be charged to all
funds for services of indirect general overhead costs, which may include general administration, finance, facility
use, personnel, technology, engineering, legal counsel, and other costs as deemed appropriate. The charges
will be determined through an indirect cost allocation study following accepted practices and procedures.
• Purchasing - The Academy shall make every effort to maximize any discounts offered by
creditors/vendors. Staff shall also use purchasing cooperatives as well as competitive bidding in
accordance with State law to attain the best possible price on goods and services.
• Prompt Payment - All invoices will be paid within 30 days of receipt in accordance with the prompt
payment requirements of State law.
• Salary - The Academy shall strive to maintain competitive salary levels for faculty and staff. A salary
survey will be conducted annually, sampling surrounding Independent School Districts and Charter
Schools, to create a comparison. The Academy will strive to maintain salary levels within three percent
(3%) of the median of surveyed schools.
VI. FUND BALANCE
• Fund Balance Reporting - The District shall report governmental fund balances per GASB 54 definitions
in the balance sheet as follows: Nonspendable, Restricted, Committed, Assigned, and Unassigned.
• General Fund Unassigned Fund Balance - The Academy shall strive to maintain the General Fund
unassigned fund balance at 45 days of operation.
• Use of Fund Balance - Fund Balance will be targeted to only be used with Board approval and can be
only be used for the following: emergencies, non-recurring expenditures, such as technology/FF&E
(furniture, fixtures and equipment), or major capital purchases that cannot be accommodated through
current year savings. Should such use reduce the balance below the appropriate level set as the
objective for that fund, recommendations will be made on how to restore it. The Board of Trustees shall
approve all commitments by formal action. The action to commit funds must occur prior to fiscal year-
end, to report such commitments in the balance sheet of the respective period, even though the amount
may be determined subsequent to fiscal year-end. A commitment can only be modified or removed by
the same formal action.
The Board of Trustees delegates the responsibility to assign funds to the Superintendent or his/her
designee. The Board of Trustees shall have the authority to assign any amount of funds. Assignments
may occur subsequent to fiscal year-end.
The Board of Trustees will utilize funds in the following spending order: Restricted, Committed,
Assigned, Unassigned
VII. INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONSHIPS
• Inter-local Cooperation in Delivering Services - In order to promote the effective and efficient delivery
of services, the Academy shall actively seek to work with other local entities in joint purchasing
consortium, sharing facilities, sharing equitably the costs of service delivery, and developing joint
programs to improve service to its students.
Page 52
Informational Summary
CHANGES IN DEBT
Debt service for the Academy’s capital infrastructure is included in the Town of Westlake’s municipal
budget. The amount of debt outstanding including interest is approximately $30.7 million; this debt will
be retired in 2021. The average annual debt service for Academy facilities paid by the Town of Westlake
is approximately $1,500,000. Discussion of current and future capital projects may be found in the
Organizational Section of this document (see pages 40 & 41).
FACILITIES
The Academy was designed and built to service approximately 620 students, with the addition of almost
100 students; the facilities at the Academy are projected to reach full capacity at the beginning of the
current school year. However, curriculum and course schedules play an equally important role in
determining facility use; the IB curriculum places a unique demand on staff and resources. In addition to
the permanent structures on the campus, the lease cost for three temporary buildings was added as a
budget amendment to the FY 10/11 Academy budget. The buildings will be used to support expanded
curriculum offerings in the DP programme. These buildings do not meet the criteria for “capital”
expenses and are paid for from the Academy’s operating budget. The 3 year lease includes a standard
purchase option however, no commitment has been made at this time; the Board is currently discussing
how this and other facility needs will be met in the future.
PERSONNEL TRENDS
The Academy has added personnel each year since its opening to support new grade levels and classes
as well as curriculum expansion. The total number of full time equivalent (FTE) positions filled in FY 10-
11 was 59.45. In FY 11-12 the Academy will add an additional 8.4 FTE positions to support additional
course offerings and class expansions, the total number of FTE positions will increase to 67.85 (see page
92 in the Informational section for a complete list of all positions).
Page 16
BOARD RECAP / STAFF DIRECTION
Westlake Academy
Item #6
Board Recap /
Staff Direction
Westlake
Academy
Item # 7 –
Workshop
Adjournment
Back up material has not
been provided for this item.
CITIZENS' PRESENTATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS: This is an opportunity for citizens to
address the Board on any matter whether or not it is posted on the agenda. The Board cannot
by law take action nor have any discussion or deliberations on any presentation made to the
Board at this time concerning an item not listed on the agenda. Any item presented may be
noticed on a future agenda for deliberation or action.
Westlake Academy
Item # 2 – Citizens’
Presentations and
recognitions
CONSENT AGENDA: All items listed below are considered routine by the Town Council
and will be enacted with one motion. There will be no separate discussion of items
unless a Council 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 for the meeting held on January 9, 2012.
b. Consider approval of the minutes for the meeting held on January 23, 2012.
c. Consider approval of Resolution 12-04, Amending the 2012 Meeting
Calendar.
Town of
Westlake
Item # 3 ‐ Consent
Agenda Items
BOT Minutes 01/09/12
Page 1 of 4
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES WORKSHOP & REGULAR MEETINGS
January 9, 2012
PRESENT: President Wheat, Trustees, Tim Brittan, Carol Langdon, David Levitan and Rick
Rennhack.
ABSENT:
OTHERS PRESENT: Superintendent Tom Brymer, Board Secretary Kelly Edwards,
Primary Principal Rod Harding, Secondary Principal Dr. Clint
Calzini, Administrative Coordinator Ben Nibarger, Assistant to the
Superintendent Amanda DeGan, Finance Director Debbie Piper,
Director of Communications & Community Affairs Ginger Awtry,
and Facilities and Recreation Director Troy Meyer.
Workshop Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
President Wheat called the workshop to order at 5:10 p.m.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
President Wheat led the pledge of allegiance to the United States and Texas flags.
3. REVIEW OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS FROM JANUARY 9, 2012, TRUSTEES
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA.
Council Member Langdon asked for a correction on the last page of the minutes.
Superintendent Brymer provided an overview of the additional items on the consent
agenda.
4. REPORTS
BOT Minutes 01/09/12
Page 2 of 4
a. Whole School Goals/Update on Curriculum Improvement Areas for 2011-2012.
b. Establishing the dismissal times for the 2012-2013 school year.
c. Discussion of the Quarterly Financial “Dashboard” report for the quarter ended
November 30, 2011.
Discussion ensued regarding the dismissal times and Whole School Goals/Update on
the curriculum report. Trustees and Principals also discussed the current curriculum
of Spanish and High Level Math program offerings.
The Board asked Staff to schedule a workshop that focuses on Higher Level Math and
other curriculum.
Superintendent Brymer stated that the quarterly dashboard report was not available
and would be presented during the February meeting.
5. DISCUSSION ITEMS
a. Presentation of the FY 2010-2011 annual audit report from Pattillo, Brown & Hill, LLP.
Finance Director Piper introduced Lindsey Todd-Fajkus from Pattillo, Brown & Hill,
LLP. Mrs. Todd-Fajkus provided an overview of the Fiscal Year 2010-2011 audit.
b. Discussion of Westlake Academy Financial Forecast, Enrollment, and Facilities’ needs.
Superintendent Brymer provided the background of the supporting documentation as
provided in response to the Boards discussion during the December meeting.
Discussion ensued regarding the current number of students and filling the vacancies,
the fiscal impact, marketing the Academy, faculty recruitment, what our stakeholders
want, the process to amend the Charter, adding temporary buildings, organically
growing the student body and debt service financing.
School Attorney Bubert provided an overview of the proposed amendment regarding
the request to increase enrollment.
c. Discussion of Governance as illustrated in Dr. Brian Carpenter’s Charter School Board
University: An Introduction to Effective Charter School Governance; Chapters 26-27.
Moved to the February meeting
6. BOARD RECAP / STAFF DIRECTION
Staff to plan an additional workshop to discuss Higher Level Math and other curriculum.
BOT Minutes 01/09/12
Page 3 of 4
7. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the Board, President Wheat adjourned the
workshop at 7:47 p.m.
Regular Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
President Wheat called the Regular meeting to order at 8:01 p.m.
2. CITIZENS' PRESENTATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
Rebecca Rollins, 13239 Roanoke Road, Westlake, stated her family moved here for the
school and the IB programme and that there will be a natural attrition and other
surrounding schools are beginning to offer the IB curriculum.
Melissa Sircar, 804 Timber Lake Circle, Southlake, stated she was pleased with the
information that the Board discussed and she feels it is easier to grow the Primary Year
grades as it gives kids the opportunity to become an IB student.
3. CONSENT AGENDA
a. Consider approval of the minutes for the meeting held on December 5, 2011.
b. Consider approval of Resolution 12-01, Creating a Policy regarding State Testing
and Advanced Coursework.
c. Consider approval of Resolution 12-02, Approving the FY 2010-2011 annual
audit report from Pattillo, Brown & Hill, LLP.
d. Consider approval of Resolution 12-03, Authorizing Submission to the Texas
Education Agency of a Charter Amendment for the Enrollment Expansion of
Westlake Academy.
MOTION: Trustee Langdon made a motion to approve the consent agenda
with the revisions to the minutes as discussed. Trustee Cox
seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 5-0.
BOT Minutes 01/09/12
Page 4 of 4
4. BOARD CALENDAR
- 2011 WA IB Diploma Ceremony & College Reflections
January 6, 2012, 2:45pm – 3:45pm; WA Gymnasium
- WA Parenting Class
January 9, 6:30pm – 8:30pm; WA Performance Hall (Class)
Dining Hall (babysitting)
- PYP & MYP Science Fair Exhibition
January 14, 2012, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm; WA Gymnasium
- Staff Development/MLK Student Holiday & Town Offices Closed
January 16, 2012
- Early Release/Parent Teacher Conferences - Secondary
January 18, 2012
- Our Town G11-DP Drama Production
January 19-21, 7pm – 9pm; WA Performance Hall
- Town Council Workshop & Meeting
January 23, 2012
- Northeast Leadership Forum Annual Meeting & Award Luncheon
February 3, 2012; 11:30 – 1:00 pm; Hurst Conference Center
- Board of Trustee Meeting
February 6, 2012
5. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
- None
6. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: Trustee Rennhack made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Trustee
Langdon seconded the motion. The motion carried by a vote of 5-0.
Trustee Langdon adjourned the meeting at 8:11 p.m.
APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES ON FEBRUARY 6, 2012.
ATTEST: ____________________________
Laura Wheat, Board President
_____________________________
Kelly Edwards, Board Secretary
BOT Minutes 01/23/12
Page 1 of 3
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
BOARD OF TRUSTEES WORKSHOP
January 23, 2012
PRESENT: President Wheat, Trustees, Carol Langdon, David Levitan and Rick Rennhack.
ABSENT: Tim Brittan
OTHERS PRESENT: Superintendent Tom Brymer, Board Secretary Kelly Edwards,
Primary Principal Rod Harding, Secondary Principal Dr. Clint
Calzini, Administrative Coordinator Ben Nibarger, Assistant to the
Superintendent Amanda DeGan, Finance Director Debbie Piper,
Director of Communications & Community Affairs Ginger Awtry,
Facilities and Recreation Director Troy Meyer, Director of Public
Works Jarrod Greenwood, Fire Chief Richard Whitten, and Human
Resources and Administrative Services Director Todd Wood.
Workshop Session
1. CALL TO ORDER
President Wheat called the workshop to order at 5:32 p.m.
2. REPORTS
a. Discussion of the Quarterly Financial “Dashboard” report for the quarter ended
November 30, 2011.
Superintendent Brymer provided an overview of the additional items added to the
report.
Discussion ensued regarding the Region 11 Service Center, the projected and current
enrollment, how the revenue is allocated based on student enrollment, and adjusting
the enrollment based on the prior six weeks report.
BOT Minutes 01/23/12
Page 2 of 3
3. DISCUSSION ITEMS
a. Discussion of Westlake Academy Financial Forecast, Enrollment, and Facilities’ Needs.
Superintendent Brymer provided a presentation and overview comparing Option 2A
and Organic growth options.
Discussion ensued on how to address the facility needs, the possibility of expanding
PYP grades, conducting an additional lottery for entrance into the MYP and DP
programs, funding additional class options the cost difference between the options
presented and the cost of construction.
The Board advised Superintendent to move forward with the construction of a new
Cafetorium. The Board also indicated a preference for the Organic Growth Option as
presented.
President Wheat recessed the meeting at 7:43 p.m.
President Wheat reconvened the meeting at 8:02 p.m.
4. EXECUTIVE SESSION
The Board convened into Executive Session at 8:17 p.m.
The Board will conduct a closed session pursuant to Texas Government Code, annotated,
Chapter 551, Subchapter D for the following:
a. Section 551.071(2) – Consultation with School Attorney on a matter in which the duty
of the attorney to the governmental body under the Texas Disciplinary Rules of
Professional Conduct of the State Bar of Texas clearly conflicts with this chapter:
Charter amendment
5. RECONVENE MEETING
President Wheat reconvened the meeting at 8:48 p.m.
6. TAKE ANY ACTION, IF NEEDED, FROM EXECUTIVE SESSION ITEMS.
No action taken.
7. BOARD RECAP / STAFF DIRECTION
- None
BOT Minutes 01/23/12
Page 3 of 3
8. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business before the Board, President Wheat adjourned the
workshop at 8:48 p.m.
APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES ON MARCH 5, 2012.
ATTEST: ____________________________
Laura Wheat, Board President
_____________________________
Kelly Edwards, Board Secretary
Page 1 of 1
WESTLAKE ACADEMY AGENDA ITEM
Curriculum: PYP/MYP/DP Meeting Date: February 6, 2012
Staff Contact: Kelly Edwards Consent
Board Secretary
Subject: Consider approval of a resolution amending the 2012 meeting calendar.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This item was discussed and adopted during the December 5, 2011, meeting. However, the
Board discussed combining and revising workshops and meeting retreats. These revisions reflect
the Board’s concern of consecutive meeting days, all day retreats, to better accommodate patient
schedules and surgeries, and provide for a longer summer break. Below is a list of changes.
- 5/25 BOT Planning retreat removed
- Friday, 6/1 TC Planning retreat time changed to 12-4 pm
- Thursday, 6/7 BOT Planning ½ day and Budget ½ day retreat 9-4 pm
- 8/6 TC Budget workshop moved
- Friday, 8/10 TC Budget workshop 4-8 pm
APPLICABLE STRATEGIC PLAN VISION POINT
Sense of Place
Leadership
Caring Community
Exemplary Governance
Service Excellence
FISCAL IMPACT
Funded Not Funded N/A
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED/ OPTIONS
Approved the resolution adopting the amended 2012 meeting calendar.
ATTACHMENTS
Resolution
2012 meeting calendar
Resolution 12-04
Page 1 of 3
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
RESOLUTION NO. 12-04
A RESOLUTION OF THE WESTLAKE ACADEMY BOARD OF TRUSTEES,
AMENDING REGULAR MEETING DATES AND PROCEDURES; ESTABLISHING
REGULAR MEETING DATES AND PROCEDURES; SETTING THE 2012 MEETING
DATES OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES; AND DECLARING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, The Board of Trustees adopted meeting dates and procedure by
Resolution 11-23 on December 5, 2011; and
WHEREAS, The Board of Trustees of the Westlake Academy (the “Board”) finds
that it is in the best interest of the Town of Westlake residents and persons interested in the
Westlake Academy (the “Academy”) that the Board shall establish regular meetings at a
convenient date, time, and place;
WHEREAS, The 2012 available regular meeting dates of the Board are hereby
established in accordance with attached Exhibit “A”.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE
WESTLAKE ACADEMY:
SECTION 1: The Board of the Westlake Academy, shall conduct regularly
scheduled meetings on dates and times as established by the Board. All Mondays shall be
established as a day available for regular meetings as needed. Special meetings shall be called
in accordance with Section 22.038(b) of the Texas Local Government Code. The regular
meetings shall convene not earlier than 6:00 p.m., and shall be held at the Town Hall offices
located at 3 Village Circle, Westlake, Texas 76262, or a meeting room close by, or another
location designated by the Board in the meeting notice. Work sessions or planning meetings of
the Board may begin earlier than the regular meeting time.
SECTION 2: The Board hereby sets the 2012 regular meeting schedules as shown in
the attached Exhibit “A”.
SECTION 3: If any portion of this Resolution shall, for any reason, be declared
invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity shall not affect the remaining
provisions hereof and the Board hereby determines that it would have adopted this Resolution
without the invalid provision.
Resolution 12-04
Page 2 of 3
SECTION 4: That this resolution shall become effective from and after its date of
passage.
PASSED AND APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF WESTLAKE
ACADEMY, A CHARTER SCHOOL OF THE STATE OF TEXAS, ON THE 6TH DAY
OF FEBRUARY 2012.
___________________________________
Laura Wheat, President
ATTEST:
________________________________ ___________________________________
Kelly Edwards, Board Secretary Thomas E. Brymer, Superintendent
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
________________________________
L. Stanton Lowry or Janet S. Bubert,
School Attorney
Resolution 12-04
Page 3 of 3
EXHIBIT A
Rev. 1/05/2012
January 2012 1 February 2012 2 March 2012 3
SMTW Th F Sa SMTW Th F Sa SMTW Th F Sa
1234567 1234 123
8 9 1011121314 5 6 789 1011 4 5 6789 10
151617181920211213141516171811121314151617
22 23 24252627281920212223242518192021222324
293031 26 27 2829 25 26 2728293031
April 2012 4 May 2012 5 June 2012 6
SMTW Th F Sa SMTW Th F Sa SMTW Th F Sa
1 2 34567 12345 1 2 5/17 Election Canvass 6:00 pm
89 1011121314 6 7 89 101112 3 4 56 7 89 5/18 New Council Orientation 9-5 pm
151617181920211314151617181910111213141516
22 23 24252627282021222324252617 18 1920212223 6/1 TC Planning Retreat 12-4 pm
2930 2728293031 24252627282930 6/7 BOT Budget/Planning Wkshp 9-4 pm
July 2012 7 August 2012 8 September 2012 9
SMTW Th F Sa SMTW Th F Sa SMTW Th F Sa
123 4 567 1234 1
89 1011121314 56789 10 11 2345678 8/10 TC Budget Wkshp 4-8 pm
1516171819202112 13 1415161718 9 10 1112131415 9/5; 9/12 9/19 6:30 pm if necessary
222324252627281920212223242516171819202122 Special Tax
293031 26 27 2829303123 24 2526272829 9/24 Regular meeting
30
October 2012 10 November 2012 11 December 2012 12
SMTW Th F Sa SMTW Th F Sa SMTW Th F Sa
1 23456 123 1
789 10111213 4 5 6789 10 2 3 45678 10/7-10/10 ICMA
1415161718192011 12 1314151617 9 10 1112131415 11/13-11/16 TML
21 22 23242526271819202122232416171819202122
28293031 25262728293023242526272829
3031
School Board School & Town HolidayBudget / Meeting Retreats
Town Council School Holiday Town Holiday
New Council/BOT Election Day /First/Last Day
Orientation Special Meeting to of School
Planning & Zoning Canvass Returns
Meetings
Meeting Schedule
Town of Westlake
BOARD CALENDAR
- Grade 11 DP Drama Production – Our Town
February 8, 10 & 11, 2012; 7:00 pm; WA Performance Hall
- Northeast Tarrant Transportation Summit
February 10, 2012; 8:30 am-1:30 pm; Hurst Conference Center
- Gallery Night
March 3, 2012, Marriott Solana at 6:00 p.m.
- Board of Trustee Meeting
March 5, 2012
- WA Spring Break
March 12 – 16, 2012
- Town Council Meeting
March 26, 2012
- MasterWorks Concert Spring Series – Free Outdoor Concert by Vocal Trash
March 30, 2012, WA Amphitheatre 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
- Westlake Arbor Day
April 7, 2012
Westlake Academy
Item #4
Board Calendar
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS: Any Board member may request at a workshop and / or
Board meeting, under “Future Agenda Item Requests”, an agenda item for a future
Board meeting. The Board member making the request will contact the CEO with the
requested item and the CEO will list it on the agenda. At the meeting, the requesting
Board member will explain the item, the need for Board discussion of the item, the
item’s relationship to the Board’s strategic priorities, and the amount of estimated staff
time necessary to prepare for Board discussion. If the requesting Board member
receives a second, the CEO will place the item on the Board agenda calendar allowing
for adequate time for staff preparation on the agenda item.
- None
Westlake Academy
Item # 5 –
Future Agenda
Items
Westlake Academy
Item # 6 –
Adjournment
Back up material has not
been provided for this item.