Walter Stiern Middle School
School Site Council Minutes
November 10, 2011
1.0 Opening/Roll Call:
Meeting called to order at 2:17 p.m. by David Manriquez, Chairperson.
The meeting was held in the Walter Stiern Library.
Members Present: Julie Short, Principal
Amanda Ough, Parent
Alli Colvin, Parent
Kenya McCormack, Teacher
Andrea Rojas, Teacher
Mike Long, Teacher
Courtney Castro, Teacher
David Manriquez, Staff
Members Absent: Maria Magana, Parent
Sonya Guzman, Parent
Silvia Ortega, Parent
Cynde Simpson, Parent
Visitors/Guests: Ana Rivera, APL
Jan Smith, Staff
Gwen Skaggs, Academic Coach
Margarita Adata, Parent –DAC/DELAC Rep.
Avelen Gurule, Parent
Isabel Altamirano, Staff
Sheila Held, Teacher
2.0 Minutes:
Minutes of October 6, 2011 were reviewed. There being no corrections, Motion was made by Kenya McCormack to accept the Minutes as read, seconded by Julie Short, and passed unanimously. Minutes of October 13, 2011 were reviewed. There being no corrections, Motion was made by Courtney Castro to accept the Minutes as read, seconded by Andrea Rojas, and passed unanimously. Minutes of the emergency November 3, 2011 were reviewed. Julie Short noted the duties of Kevin McGrath, under item 5.1, should read “He continues to work with our students in Character Counts, and assists with discipline in the office.” There being no further corrections, Motion was made by Julie Short to accept the Minutes as corrected, seconded by Alli Colvin, and passed unanimously.
3.0 Open Forum: David Manriquez called for questions/discussion from the floor. Sheila Held, 7th grade science teacher, inquired if the Council would consider the purchase of preserved frogs for use as an enhanced learning activity. Mrs. Short advised a requisition for purchase has been sent to District as a supplemental instructional supply in our approved Single Plan for Student Achievement. No further action required.
4.0 Site Reports:
4.1 Data Monitoring Report (SPSA): Ms. Short, by overhead and chart handout, reviewed the Fall Math and Reading Language Arts Benchmarks chart to compare and illustrate data as follows:
Math GAP Difference Last Year GAP Difference This Year
6th grade: 67 points 71 points. Teachers are addressing this issue through good first instruction.
7th grade: 36 points 59 points
8th Algebra Readiness: 204 points 149 points. Progress being made.
8th Algebra 1: Stiern is at 48% Proficient/Advanced, topping District Wide 37% Proficient/Advanced.
Mr. Long, Teacher Member, asked to take a closer look at how 7th grade Math compared with District scores to see where Stiern falls in comparison with other District schools. Ms. Short shared the District GAP Analysis results of District Middle Schools. Stiern will take a close look at instruction and look forward to Winter Benchmark gains.
RLA
6th grade 94 points 79 points
7th grade 73 points 83 points
8th grade 93 points 76 points
Stiern made API in all areas last year and we are well on our way to do the same this year.
Progress of our Actions
Ana Rivera, APL, advised of the progress of collaboration, Action #18 of our SPSA, and reported there is good strategy collaboration throughout each Department. Teacher Member Kenya McCormack advised the History Department’s collaboration focused on pacing and key standards. History teacher Curtis Swartley provided good feedback to the departments’ newer History instructors. 6th grade History team developed a rubric for research reports.
Teacher Member Courtney Castro reported the ELA Department collaborated on quizzes to reteach standards and Galileo program for monitoring. Teacher Member Andrea Rojas reported the Math Department collaborated on quizzes for benchmarks. Ana Rivera informed the PE Department is working on strength building and are collaborating more than in past years. The Science Department is collaborating on student projects to enhance learning. Ms. Rivera asked for Teacher Members to share their thoughts. Teacher Member Mike Long advised pacing aligned with colleagues, and department chairs could share what’s working at a District meeting. Kenya McCormack spoke positively of the late start collaboration days as this is an extended amount of time to collaborate so they can really focus on topic. She feels morning collaboration time is more productive than afternoon, as teachers are fresher in the morning.
Ana Rivera, APL, advised Action #35 of our SPSA is new this year. She would like to see home visits throughout the year, beginning in December, leading to effective communication between home and school, addressing student strengths as well as weaknesses, and emphasizing the need for parent support. She would like to see support staff along with approximately 15 interested teachers to head start this Action. Julie Short questioned preferable days – could be flexible, and would like SSC Teacher Members to be the foundation. Mr. Long brought up the question of pay for home visits. Teacher Member Courtney Castro asked for clarification on how the visits would be conducted. Ana Rivera clarified by saying that it would be one or two teachers per visit. She would like to see at least 15 teachers take part of this action for the 2011-12 school year. Parent Member Amanda Ough believed parents would be excited about home visits.
4.2 Parent/Teacher Conferences: Ana Rivera announced the success of the conferences. She estimated approximately 500+ parents attended and heard positive comments from both parents and teachers. Teacher Member Kenya McCormack said it was very productive and as a result a parent visited her classroom and the student’s participation has improved. Parent Member Amanda Ough commented she liked the organized forum set up in the cafeteria
5.0 Unfinished Business: There was no unfinished business.
6.0 New Business:
6.1 Discuss FPM Visit: Julie Short explained the upcoming December 8th FPM visit is a Federal review. Ms. Short passed out to Members present a list of possible questions staff, teachers, and SSC members may be asked, as well as a guide prepared by District’s Academic Improvement & Accountability Department. SSC will meet again on December 7, just prior to FPM visit. We will be asked about our goals: Students to meet target growth, decrease non-proficient and increase proficient/advanced, promote attendance through clubs and noontime sports, ELD goals. Know where to find Actions within our SPSA. Reminder, our SPSA can be added to and modified as needed. Teachers refer to WINN binder. Ana Rivera detailed the monitoring of our EL students, through CELDT test determination and the color code system: green being close to being English only; blue, met requirement but needs to do well on CST for three years. Ms. Short advised parents cannot opt out students from ELD classes – state mandate.
7.0 Reports:
7.1 DAC and 7.2 DELAC: Margarita Adata reported the 22012-2013 Student Schedules, requirements and pros and cons of certain options were discussed. Not enough PE minutes is an issue. The need for one hour of PE daily, (or 400 minutes total every 10 school days) and how to accomplish same was discussed. Take out minutes from other subjects? BETA President, mediators and parents will be at next meeting to further discuss the matter. DELAC parents will be at Stiern November 30,
visiting EL classes.
7.3 RAC: Representative not present. No report given,.
8.0 Announcements:
8.1 ELAC Meeting: Stiern’s first ELAC meeting will be November 15, 2011 at 9:00 a.m. in room 102.103.
8.2 Veteran’s Day Parade: Stiern will be marching in the parade, November 11, beginning at 9:00 a.m.
8.3 Next SCC Meeting: Our next SSC meeting will be December 7, 2011 at 2:10 p.m. in the library due to our FPM visit on Dec. 8.
9.0 Adjournment: Motion made by Julie Short to adjourn the meeting at 3:25 p.m., seconded by Courtney Castro, and passed unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________
David Manriquez, Chairperson
____________________________
Courtney Castro, Secretary
Walter Stiern Middle School
School Site Council Minutes
November 3, 2011
1.0 Opening/Roll Call:
Meeting called to order at 1:05 p.m. by David Manriquez, Chairperson.
The meeting was held in the Walter Stiern Faculty Room. It was noted that it was an Emergency meeting.
Members Present: Julie Short, Principal
Cynde Simpson, Parent
Kenya McCormack, Teacher
Andrea Rojas, Teacher
Mike Long, Teacher
Courtney Castro, Teacher
David Manriquez, Staff
Members Absent: Maria Magana, Parent
Sonya Guzman, Parent
Silvia Ortega, Parent
Amanda Ough, Parent
Alli Colvin, Parent
Visitors/Guests: Ana Rivera, APL
2.0 Minutes:
Minutes tabled until 11-10-11 meeting.
3.0 Open Forum: David Manriquez called for questions/discussion from the floor. There were none.
4.0 Site Reports:
None to report
5.0 Unfinished Business:
5.1 Review of revised Categorical Funds-personnel salary: Julie Short presented our revised allocated budget change for personnel salary. Motion was made by Kenya McCormack to open for discussion the SPSA, seconded by Mike Long. Ms. Short explained we have the same allocation for each funding resource. We needed to change the percentage of where we pay our personnel salary. Our APL, Ana Rivera, will now to be paid 42% of her salary out of EIA/LEP. Justification was because she works a tremendous amount with our EL students and teachers by monitoring students’ progress, holding PD’s for our EL teachers, and monitoring ELD classes. The balance of her salary, 58%, will come from Title. Dean of Students, Kevin McGrath, salary will be paid out of 3150 (90%), and 0615 (10%). He continues to work with our students in Character Counts, and assists with discipline in the office. Rose Browning, Clerk 1 (8hrs), is being paid out of 3150 (90%), and 0615 (10%). She continues to assist students
addressing various needs daily in the front office. She communicates with parents, and supports student health and wellbeing by providing the means for students to get services while at school.
Chairperson David Manriquez called for a vote on our revised Categorical Funds budget. Motion was made by Andrea Rojas to accept our revised Categorical Funds Allocations budget, seconded by Cynde Simpson, and passed unanimously.
6.0 New Business:
7.0 Reports:
8.0 Announcements: David Manriquez announced our next SSC meeting will be November 10, 2011 at 2:20 p.m. in the Library.
9.0 Adjournment: There being no further business to come before the Council, Motion was made by Andrea Rojas to adjourn the meeting at 4:00 p.m., seconded by Cynde Simpson, and passed unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________
David Manriquez, Chairperson
____________________________
Courtney Castro, Secretary
Walter Stiern Middle School
School Site Council Minutes
October 13, 2011
1.0 Opening/Roll Call:
Meeting called to order at 2:12 p.m. by David Manriquez, Chairperson.
The meeting was held in the Walter Stiern Library.
Members Present: Julie Short, Principal
Amanda Ough, Parent
Alli Colvin, Parent
Kenya McCormack, Teacher
Andrea Rojas, Teacher
Mike Long, Teacher
Courtney Castro, Teacher
David Manriquez, Staff
Members Absent: Maria Magana, Parent
Sonya Guzman, Parent
Silvia Ortega, Parent
Cynde Simpson, Parent
Visitors/Guests: Ana Rivera, APL
Jan Smith, Staff
Irma Gomez, Staff
Gwen Skaggs, Academic Coach
Ryan Busby, Teacher
2.0 Minutes:
Minutes of the Sept. 22, 2011 were reviewed. There being no corrections, Motion was made by Julie Short to accept the Minutes as read, seconded by Alli Colvin, and passed unanimously.
3.0 Open Forum: David Manriquez called for questions/discussion from the floor. There were none.
4.0 Site Reports:
4.1 PD-Setting Limits Goal 4 (SSLE)#124: Julie Short advised Council member Kenya McCormack is one of two teachers conducting professional development addressing “Setting Limits in the Classroom” which gives techniques and strategies for classroom management. Approximately 32 teachers have attended to date. This professional development will continue through December. Amanda Ough, parent member, asked if the strategies learned can be utilized at home too. Ms. Short assured her that ye they can. Amanda wanted to know if parents would be able to attend this particular PD. Ms. Short let SSC know that at this time she wanted to make sure the teachers understood the strategies learned in the PD and be able to implement in their classroom. What we could do is have a write up in our newsletter letting parents know what the focus strategies are for that particular month. SSC thought that would be a great idea.
5.0 Unfinished Business:
5.1 Review of revised SPSA goals and actions: Ana Rivera presented our revised 2011-2012 Single Plan for Student Achievement for review of actions. Motion was made by Julie Short to open for discussion the SPSA, seconded by Alli Colvin. Ms. Short encouraged input for new actions be brought to our attention at this time. Actions were scrutinized for corrections and fine tuning. Ms. Castro, teacher member, wanted more clarification on WINN time. She asked if it only pertained to the second period of the block time. Ms. Short went back to the action and restated WINN is exactly that, “What I Need Now.” When implementing WINN, a teacher does it at the beginning of the lesson for building background, or throughout as a whole class enrichment/extension. She also stated WINN does look different in the different subject matters taught here at Stiern. Ms. McCormack, teacher member, suggested wording the action to include “During ELA/Math blocks WINN strategy will be implemented for ….”
In Program Monitoring/Data Analysis action – Ms. McCormack, suggested we reword how we would monitor student performance. Instead of just the color code method that is stated, to put “a system of monitoring” will be used to progress monitor student performance by their…”
Ms. Ough, parent member, commented on the ELT actions where the school utilizes Accelerated Readers. She stated it gets the students reading because they read at their level, helping them feel successful.
In Classroom Walkthrough action, Mr. Long, teacher member, suggested rewording the action from walkthroughs to visits. Ms. Short agreed and added that we eliminate Pathway walkthroughs, due to the fact support staff goes into classrooms for several different things. Ms. McCormack wanted to also have feedback to add “written or verbal.”
Ms. Castro, teacher member, had a concern about the position of Academic Coach. She wanted to know if that was still a valid position. Ms. Short assured we still had an Academic Coach. The Coach is here for every subject matter. Although, the current coach specializes in Math, she is here to support teachers in strategies, academic or behavior management, which helps student achievement. Ms. Short made SSC aware she utilizes her support staff with their strengths:
Vice Principal – Science
Academic Program – ELA/ELD
Academic Coach – Math
Dean – S. Studies/P.E.
Ms. Castro commented to clarify duty assignments. Ms. Short went back to the SPSA, clarified any misunderstandings. SSC members agreed the duty assignments were clarified.
Ms. McCormack, teacher member, asked how we attract highly qualified teachers. Ms. Rivera, APL commented the action pertaining to attracting highly qualified teachers was getting moved to Central Office section, because it’s the district that attains the teachers for schools. Ms. Short commented it was a good point. “How does the district attract teachers?” Ms. Rivera added the district does the following:
· Curriculum and Standards department and instructional specialists provide content and pedagogy support, technology support, and professional development opportunities,
· BTSA services are provided through the Personnel Department
If needed, Ms. Rivera would ask district for clarification.
A copy of our Categorical Funds Allocations Projection budget was given to each member present for review. Ms. Rivera explained the budget was finalized on October 12, and that is why the dollar amounts were not set out in our SPSA, but can now be added. Ms. Short explained the funding sources and their use, either explicit or school wide. She assured the school spends money allotted. She further explained new this year was SLIBG funding in the sum of $78,740.00, which can be used where necessary. Ms. Ough, parent member, asked if the school had to use all monies or would funding carryover for the following year. Ms. Short explained there were certain budgets that are carried over - LEP and EIA/SCE. The rest we use or lose. Upon going over the budget, Ms. Short asked if there were any other questions. Ms. McCormack asked if the plan with the budget could be amended at any time of the year. Ms. Short said the school tries not to, but we can make amendments as needed throughout the year. There are times where we forget to put actions or modify actions on our plan, or we projected more money in one section of the budget and have to move over within the same resource.
Chairperson David Manriquez called for a vote on our SPSA and Categorical Funds budget. Motion was made by Courtney Castro to accept our 2011-2012 Single Plan for Student Achievement and 2011-2012 Categorical Funds Allocations budget, seconded by Amanda Ough, and passed unanimously.
Ana Rivera presented to SSC a purchase of audio components from IVS Computer Technology in the sum of $2,329.94 which includes speakers, microphone, hardware for installation and labor. These components compliment the Smart Board and will complete the technical upgrade of room 808. She explained this didn’t need a motion to vote because it was on last year’s SPSA, and the plan is good until November.
5.2 SSC By-Laws: Ana Rivera presented our By-Laws with corrections as voted upon at our September 22, 2011 SSC meeting. Motion was made by Alli Colvin to accept our By-Laws as reviewed and revised on September 22, 2011, seconded by Mike Long. Chairperson David Manriquez called for a vote. Motion approved.
5.3 Parent Involvement Policy: Motion was mad by Julie Short to accept our Parent Involvement Policy as revised on March 20, 2011, seconded by Andrea Rojas. Chairperson David Manriquez called for vote to accept our Parent Involvement Policy as revised on March 20, 2011. Motion approved.
5.4 School Compact: Motion was made by Julie Short to correct our School Compact to reflect bullet 7 of the Parent Pledge to coincide with bullet 7 of the Student Pledge wherein parents pledge to provide a quiet time and place for homework and limit screen time (TV, video games, computer, cell phone) during school week, seconded by Courtney Castro. Chairman David Manriquez called for a vote, Motion approved.
6.0 New Business:
6.1 SBCP Assurances Review: Julie Short read and explained the Annual School-Based Coordinated Program (SBCP) Assurances form. We are currently in Program Improvement status. Stiern operates a SBCP program, and our SPSA contains a description of instructional and auxiliary services to meet the academic needs of our English Learners, educationally disadvantaged youth, gifted and talented students, and students with exceptional needs. Motion was made by teacher member Kenya McCormack to participate in SBCP, seconded by teacher member Courtney Castro. Chairperson David Manriquez called for vote on Motion for SSC to participate in School-Based Coordinated Program. Motion approved.
7.0 Reports:
7.1 DAC: Margarita Adata, our DAC representative was not present. Parent member Amanda Ough advised she attend the DAC meeting and the Local Educational Plan (LEA) was reviewed at that meeting. 8th grade is struggling in math, and there are concerns as to why 3rd graders have low math test scores. 80% of BCSD student population are socioeconomically disadvantaged. EL focus on learning to read, whereas 4th through 12th grade emphasizes reading to learn. Class size reduction strategy was addressed, as well as team-teaching beginning with special ed.
7.2 DELAC: Our representative was not present. No report given.
7.3 RAC: No representative present. No report given.
8.0 Announcements: David Manriquez announced school Spirit week is October 24 through 28. Our next SSC meeting will be November 10, 2011 at 2:20 p.m. in the Library.
9.0 Adjournment: There being no further business to come before the Council, Motion was made by Julie Short to adjourn the meeting at 4:00 p.m., seconded by Kenya McCormack, and passed unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________
David Manriquez, Chairperson
____________________________
Courtney Castro, Secretary
Walter Stiern Middle School
School Site Council Minutes
October 6, 2011
1.0 Opening/Roll Call:
Meeting called to order at 2:14 p.m. by Andrea Rojas, Vice Chairperson.
The meeting was held in the Walter Stiern Library.
Members Present: Julie Short, Principal
Alli Colvin, Parent
Andrea Rojas, Teacher
Mike Long, Teacher
Courtney Castro, Teacher
David Manriquez, Staff
Members Absent: Amanda Ough, Parent
Maria Magana, Parent
Sonya Guzman, Parent
Silvia Ortega, Parent
Cynde Simpson, Parent
Kenya McCormack, Teacher
Visitors/Guests: Ana Rivera, APL
Jan Smith, Staff
Irma Gomez, Staff
Gwen Skaggs, Academic Coach
Margarita Adata, Parent
2.0 Minutes:
Minutes of the Sept. 22, 2011 meeting were tabled until the October 13, 2011 meeting.
3.0 Open Forum: Andrea Rojas explained Open Forum and called for questions/discussion from the floor. There were none.
4.0 Site Reports: There were no Site Reports.
5.0 Unfinished Business;
5.1 Development of SPSA goals and actions: Julie Short announced the purpose of today’s meeting is to give members the opportunity to aid in development of Stiern’s School Plan for Student Achievement (SPSA). Our SPSA is a work in progress; we are in the process of reviewing, revising, fine-tuning and making adjustments to our goals and actions. Upon completion it will be submitted for SSC’s final approval.
A draft of our SPSA was handed out to all members present for review, discussion, adjustments. Julie Short referred to “Needs Assessment and Evaluation Summary” contained within the draft. This is a summary of past work done with regard to Stiern’s improvement in the implementation of last year’s school plan for student achievement.
The discussion began with looking over the PowerPoint presented last SSC meeting. The principal, Ms. Short had the SSC focus on the structures designed to meet academic/SPSA goals. Discussion on each structure was made. The following structures needed more elaboration and/or modification:
WINN: Teacher members, Ms. Castro and Ms. Rojas commented that after they understood what WINN (What I Need to Know Now) meant, the strategy had more purpose; they focused on the skills their students needed in order to master the content standards. Ms. Castro said it was hard to incorporate on a daily basis for RLA because of how subjective the standards can be. She focused twice a week on skills needed in order to master standards. There were times that WINN was a whole group as a warm up, or computer tutorial activity using Holt ancillaries and other times in small groups. This structure just needs fine tuning and new teachers need to be explained on how to incorporate it during class time. Ms. Short, principal, agreed on the fine tuning; she understands that some standards are more subjective than others, but when doing WINN, teachers must make sure it is done with a purpose.
Bi-Monthly Collaboration: Teacher member, Ms. Rojas commented that collaboration in the Math department went well. Each grade level sat in groups and after each formative and benchmark exam they discussed what key standards were frequently missed. How those key standards were taught? How were the key standards asked in the exams? From those discussions the teachers had a better idea of what to do during their intervention period. Mr. Long, teacher member, agreed with how Math departments ran their collaboration meetings. Ms. Castro, spoke in behalf of RLA department. She stated that collaborating was more difficult for RLA. Some teachers prefer to lesson plan on their own, because RLA is more subjective and there are two different curriculums, one for benchmark/strategic classes and one for intensive classes. Ms. Short agreed but stated there are certain key skills that are the same no matter what grade. For example, Plot is the same in each grade level, the rigor of what is expected differentiates through grade levels. Students need to know the elements that are required to be able understand plot. Ms. Short posed the question, “So how is it taught to make sure the students understand elements of plot?”
To make collaboration more purposeful in the RLA department, Ms. Rivera, APL, suggested that the department can work on collaborating on things that are used no matter what grade level or what curriculum is being utilized. One strategy is the use of graphic organizers; the department will collaborate on 10 graphic organizers that can be utilized throughout the year. This will help both teachers and students understand the purpose of using graphic organizers. Another suggestion that was brought up from Ms. Castro, teacher member, was to see if Gateway teachers can have time to collaborate. They have different concerns than Holt. Ms. Short was going to schedule those opportunities.
ELT: Ms. Rivera, APL, commented that after looking at the data ELT needed to be monitored closer. This year instead of teacher reteaching standard taught before, the students would be allowed to work on class work, as the student got stuck on a problem teacher would help him/her out. The suggestion was that in Math it could be a step or skills that the student needed extra help on instead of the whole standard. In RLA, it could be fluency, comprehension, or structure that student needed help on. By focusing on skill instead of whole standard, students will: 1. Be able to understand standard, 2. Be more inclined to continue to come to ELT – they get help on what they need. 3. Have a quiet place to do homework. This year there was an application process for teachers interested in doing ELT. This gave us the opportunity to choose quality over quantity. Teacher member, Mr. Long agreed.
Ms. Rivera also mentioned Saturday School and Boot Camp. She believed they didn’t really have a significant role in our API growth. Ms. Rojas commented in order for Boot Camp to be successful, it needed to be structured better. She said, “One day I had 50 students, and the next day 10. There was no way I could do intervention with so many students, it was impossible.” Ms. Short agreed with Ms. Rojas comments. Ms. Rojas went on and said maybe Boot Camp could be done during WINN, which she believes to be more effective. Mr. Long interjected and said he had done that before. In this case, those students that needed help on a certain skill would go with him during WINN (intervention period), and the others would go with Ms. Rojas. Both teachers would try that out and report back to see how it worked.
Student Discipline Meetings: Ms. Rojas, teacher member, wanted to see if these meetings could be changed to another time. Lunch time is short as it is, and if she or any teachers want to keep students in for disciplinary purposes they can’t because they would miss the meetings. Ms. Short, principal, mentioned because there are so many other meetings teachers must attend after school, this was the only logical time. Ms. Castro, teacher member, inquired if these meetings can still be kept optional. She didn’t see the benefits in them. Ms. Rojas commented they were good because she, as well as other teachers, collaborated on behavior strategies that worked for them. Mr. Long, teacher member, suggested since all teachers must go to department meetings, and they are weekly, the department can take 20 minutes to go over discipline issues (once a month.) Ms. Short said she would take a look into that.
Character Counts: Ms. Short asked what the SSC thought about keeping this structure in place. No one had any say on it. Ms. Rivera, APL, brought up the data she had, which were given to her by Mr. McGrath, Dean, from last year. She stated those students who were in the program had a 50% decrease in disciplinary referrals, attendance went up, 50% of eighth graders in the program passed the Constitution Test. Mr. Long suggested if we keep the program, could we possibly have a pre/posttest to get more data. He felt any support we can give our students is beneficial for academic success.
Effectiveness of Instructional Support
Coaching Model: Ms. Castro, teacher member, commented there needs to be more opportunities to coach, not just go in pathway and move on. It was mentioned that two years ago there was more coaching cycle. It was done in the RLA department when Ms. Short and Ms. Rivera were going over the Explicit Direct Instruction (EDI) Model; both explained to the RLA teachers the stages of EDI, observed, coached teacher, then follow up observation was done. If teacher needed more help, a demo lesson was done and a follow up observation took place. Ms. Short agreed that coaching cycle needs to be restructured. Her suggestion was a five step model:
1. Observe - Pathway
2. Meet: plan on skill that needs to be implemented
3. Follow-up Observation
4. Follow-up Meeting (determine if teacher needs more help; demo lesson??)
5. Close Coaching Cycle for that skill
SSC members agreed with her restructuring model. Mr. Long suggested maybe more support should go out to the new teachers who needed more help. Ms. Short said she would create a schedule and try and make it work. She also stated it meant if we focused on new teachers, less time would be given to tenure teachers.
Data Usage to Drive Instruction: Mr. Long, teacher member, commented that utilizing color code method to progress monitor is purposeful but it is benchmark driven. It only shows progress three times a year. There needed to be more we can do to progress formative exams. Ms. Castro commented she utilizes a more personal monitoring where students keep their own monitoring. Each time a test is given, students color code what they earned. If it’s a formative test, she has them go by percentage. She stated although it’s not 100% accurate it helps students’ motivation to improve on past scores. Other than that discrepancy, all teachers agreed utilizing Galileo Reports helped spot intervention needs.
Technical Assistance: Ms. Short, principal, commented Stiern is pretty much equipped with the technology to help enhance student academic progression. We just need to keep up the maintenance of the equipment and programs purchased. For example, everyone agreed SAFARI Montage program was beneficial in that it helped teachers visually give background information to students during the modeling phase of instruction; or enriched students learning when they wanted to learn more about a topic or skill.
SSC moved on to go over suggestive Objectives for the 2011-12 school year. The following goals were discussed:
Reading/Language Arts and Math: The two objectives for these goals were agreed upon. After discussion on collaboration playing an integral role in these two goals; consideration on making collaboration an objective was mentioned by Ms. Short.
ELD: Ms. Short commented objectives 1, 2 and 3 of the ELD Goal are aligned to District’s Plan of Improvement. Although we must align our plan to the District’s, we can add Objectives to this Goal. SSC was fine with these goals. Mr. Long, teacher member, asked if these objectives were attainable. Ms. Short assured that they were.
Safe School Learning Environment/School Climate: Under the first objective for this goal, the principal Ms. Short felt the word “suspension” gave a negative connotation to this objective. She would like to replace “suspension” rates, with a decrease in the number of “fighting incidents”, or other behaviors such as “defiance”.
Under the second objective, teacher member, Ms. Castro suggested we have other alternatives than just sports for lunch-time activities. She suggested maybe opening the library or the Extended Learning Center for those students that would want to do other activities. Parent member, Alli Colvin, questioned to see if the library would stay open during lunch even though other grades are still in classes. Ms. Short suggested the library can have a section for lunch-time goers. There wouldn’t be a problem keeping the library open for those students and classes coming in.
Under the fourth objective having to do with attendance, Ms. Short suggested we adjust to improve attendance by 1/2% instead of 1%. Everyone chuckled, but she went on to say that although it doesn’t sound like much improvement, 1/2 % is a lot to increase by, especially in a school as large as ours.
Parent Involvement: Ms. Short, principal, stated this is a goal we have been working on for years. More parent involvement has occurred but we still need more. She commented to get more parents aware of what we do here is to have an Open House, where parents come and see how classes are being conducted and see student work. Ana Rivera, APL, suggested having an objective to increase number of home visits or face-to-face contact by staff; it gives teachers an opportunity to visit with parents in a more comfortable setting for them. Mr. Long, teacher member, had a question on home visits. He suggested a positive reinforcement phone call to parent instead. Ms. Rivera stated although it is a great idea to continue to make phone calls, face-to-face contact, especially as home visits, are more meaningful, and shows parents who are involved in their student education a sense of school going the extra mile to support them. Ms. Rivera ended with saying once parents feel the school is extending their arms out to them, (parents) will be more willing to work on issues with the school.
Ana Rivera asked members to take home SPSA draft to further review. Proposed actions with expenditures will be addressed at next meeting.
6.0 New Business: No new business.
7.0 Reports: DAC, DELAC and RAC reports will be addressed at next meeting.
8.0 Announcements:
8.1 SES Provider Fair held at Stiern today, commencing at 5:00 p.m.
8.2 Next SSC meeting is Thursday, October 13, 2011 at 2:00 p.m.
9.0 Adjournment: Motion made by Mike Long to adjourn the meeting at 4:20 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________
David Manriquez, Chairperson
_____________________________
Courtney Castro, Secretary
Walter Stiern Middle School
School Site Council Minutes
September 22, 2011
1.0 Opening/Roll Call:
Meeting called to order at 2:14 p.m. by last year’s Chair, David Manriquez.
The meeting was held in the Walter Stiern Library.
Members Present: Julie Short, Principal
Silvia Ortega, Parent
Cynde Simpson, Parent
Alli Colvin, Parent
Kenya McCormack, Teacher
Andrea Rojas, Teacher
Mike Long, Teacher
Courtney Castro, Teacher
David Manriquez, Staff
Members Absent: Amanda Ough, Parent
Maria Magana, Parent
Sonya Guzman, Parent
Visitors/Guests: Ana Rivera, APL
Jan Smith, Staff
Irma Gomez, Staff
Gwen Skaggs, Academic Coach
Margarita Adata, Grandparent
Diane Wallace, District Staff
Pat Witcher, Vice Principal
Introduction: Round table introductions were made.
Purpose of SSC/Discuss positions: Julie Short advised the purpose and duties of SSC is to participate in the student achievement process, ensuring that the needs of all students are specifically addressed in our SPSA, and that categorical funds are aligned with the objectives of said SPSA, all as set forth in the “School Site Council for School Improvement Programs” information sheet provided each member; officers’ responsibilities as set forth in the “School Site Council Officer Responsibilities”; and Parliamentary Procedure which sets forth the rules for conduct at meetings; copies of which were provided each member present.
Election of officers: Ms. Short called for nominations for the office of Chairperson. Motion was made by Alli Colvin to elect David Manriquez Chairperson, seconded by Julie Short. There being no further nominations, vote was taken and David Manriquez declared Chairperson. Mr. Manriquez called for nominations for Vice Chairperson. Motion was made by Courtney Castro to elect Andrea Rojas Vice Chairperson, seconded by Mike Long. There being no further nominations, vote was taken and Andrea Rojas declared Vice Chairperson. Mr. Manriquez called for nominations for Secretary. Motion was made by Andrea Rojas to elect Courtney Castro Secretary, seconded by Alli Colvin. There being no further nominations, vote was taken and Courtney Castro declared Secretary.
2.0 Minutes: The Minutes from the May 19, 2011 meeting were reviewed. No corrections needed. Motion was made by Julie Short to approve the Minutes as read, seconded by Alli Colvin, and passed unanimously.
3.0 Open Forum: Mr. Manriquez called for questions and/or discussion from the floor. Diane Wallace invited parent members to a SSC Training on September 29, 2011 at District offices.
4.0 Site Reports:
4.1: Data Monitoring Report (SPSA): Julie Short shared CST results showing the growth our students made last year, and reviewed instructional focus and attendance. Our API target school-wide was 7, we scored 18. All sub groups met their target; Hispanic/Latino sub-group target was 7, we grew 15 points, White/Caucasian target was 5, we grew 38 points and made Safe Harbor, Socioeconomically/Disadvantaged target was 8, we grew 20 points, EL population target was 12, we grew 30 points; Student with Disabilities target was 20, we grew 77 points, also making Safe Harbor.
Reviewing ELA and Math percentages of Proficient/Advanced growth over the three-year period of 08/09 through 10/11 school year, we are still showing growth as follows: 6th gr. ELA showed a 9% growth, 6th gr. Math 5%; 7th gr. ELA 16% growth, 7th Math 6%; 8th gr. ELA 9% growth, 8th gr. Algebra a 19% growth. 8th gr. General math continues to struggle with only a 1% gain over the 08-09 school year.
Reviewing Academic Support Data, Ms. Short advised we have decreased suspensions by 28% over the last four years, Character Counts program was very successful with a 50% decrease in referrals by students involved in the program, attendance has increased. Ana Rivera advised last year’s implementation of PIQE classes increased our parent participation. Our eight-day ELL Academy approved by SSC last year just concluded.
Categorical support staff positions and objectives were reviewed and structures identified as to their alignment to meet academic and SPSA Goals. Members were asked to review questions as to Integrity of Structures, Effectiveness of Instructional Support for Teachers, and Data Usage and present feed-back at our October meeting, as well as input of Lessons Learned.
5.0 Unfinished Business: There was no unfinished business.
6.0 New Business:
6.1: SSC-By-Laws: Ana Rivera addressed a change to the duties of Secretary. Motion was made by Julie Short to approve a change in the By-Laws as set out in Article III, Officers, wherein copies of Minutes are to be sent to BCSD Academic Improvement and Accountability Department, and no longer Parent Involvement, with By-Laws open to further changes as SSC may deem necessary upon their further review, seconded by Kenya McCormack. Members were asked to take home their copy of By-Laws to review in further detail and recommend any further revisions at October meeting. Vote called by Mr. Manriquez to approve Motion made and seconded to approve a change in the By-Laws as set out in Article III, Officers, wherein copies of Minutes are to be sent to BCSD Academic Improvement and Accountability Department, and no longer Parent Involvement, with By-Laws open to further changes as SSC may deem necessary upon their further review. Motion approved.
6.2: Parent Involvement Policy: Ana Rivera presented the Parent Involvement Policy corrections made in March 2011, following District guidelines. Motion was made by Alli Colvin to accept the District guidelines of our Parent Involvement Policy of March 2011, seconded by Mike Long. A copy of this initial Policy was distributed to each SSC member for review and will return to SSC for finalization at October meeting. Mr. Manriquez called for a vote on the Motion was made by Alli Colvin to accept the District guidelines of our Parent Involvement Policy of March 2011, seconded by Mike Long. Motion Approved.
Ms. Short explained Title 1 is a federally funded program that provides support for students and groups of students who score below “proficient or advanced” on CST, or as monitored by additional measures. Due to our large population however, we are a School Wide Title 1 campus and funds can be used to provide services and support instructional needs for all students not yet demonstrating proficiency on the CST and additional monitoring tools used at our school site.
6.3: School Compact: Julie Short presented for review our School Compact, explaining this is a contract between our school, parents, and students and shares our expectations and how we can partner together. The Compact will be sent home upon approval. Kenya McCormack recommended rewording of the sentence referring to homework to read “regular homework” in place of “daily homework” and that learning “not to exceed 60 minutes per day.” Alli Colvin recommended students pledge to “limit screen time (TV, video games, computer, cell phone) during the school week”. Upon further discussion it was recommended to reword the last sentence of each pledge to make clear the need to respect all cultural backgrounds. Motion was made Cynde Simpson to approve the recommendations as stated above, seconded by Andrea Rojas, and passed unanimously.
6.4: Title 1 Status: This subject was addressed by Ms. Short under 6.2 above.
6.5: Program Improvement Status: Julie Short advised we are in year 5+. The federal target continues to rise, and we are continuing to make growth. There are no Choice options for Junior High and Middle School this year because all are in Program Improvement. Free tutoring is offered to only those students that qualify for free or reduced meals. A Tutoring Fair will be held at Stiern October 6th with a variety of providers. Tutoring begins in January.
6.6: Summary of Data Analysis and Needs Assessment 2010-2011: Julie Short and Ana Rivera went over the SPSA Evaluation Process with the SSC. They explain that each year SPSA is evaluated for the effectiveness of the planned activities; the evaluation process will help provide data for the following year’s plan. Ana Rivera passed out “Key Questions to Guide Development of Results-Oriented SPSA Objectives for 2011-2012”. SSC members followed along as Julie Short and Ana Rivera walked them through, using the power point.
The evidence showed that goals/objectives were established followed by actions believed would help achieve academic success. The actions were monitored. Many of our outcomes were achieved. They felt that some actions needed to be modified and have more opportunities to monitor.
As for the integrity of the plan: the structures set in place were aligned directly to attainment of the goals and objectives. The purpose of the structures was communicated with roles and responsibilities. The structures were monitored on an ongoing basis, using data reports and pathway scripts. Instructional time and fiscal resources were adequately utilized.
Although every aspect of implementing and maintaining the established structures were followed, follow up and follow through by support staff was not always consistent; multiple duties and prioritizing needs sometimes pulled staff from the instructional support plan in order to address the Safe School Learning Environment. They also identified the need for a greater degree of checking for understanding with instructional staff in order to ensure uniformity of actions.
A sample SPSA for this year will be provided at our October meeting. Ms. Short inquired if there is any member interest to serve on a sub-committee to report to SSC.
6.7: Goals for ELA, Math, ELD, Safe School Learning Environment, Parent Involvement: Due to the time limitations for this SSC meeting, Motion was made by Julie Short to table this item for a special October meeting to begin the development of 2011-2012 SPSA, it was seconded by Courtney Castro, and passed unanimously.
6.8: Review/Approval of Extended Learning Time Plan: Ana Rivera reviewed and recommended acceptance of our Extended Learning Time Plan for 2011-2012. Motion was made by Courtney Castro to approve this Extended Learning Time Plan and expenditures in a sum not to exceed $16,000, seconded by Andrea Rojas. The Extended Learning begins September 26, 2011 through April 19, 2012. In addition to core subject areas, a Reading Club focusing on reading comprehension and vocabulary will be implemented as well as re-implementing a Homework Club wherein students receive one-on-one support with teacher tutoring. Salary expenses will be in the approximate sum of $8,736; bussing expenses in the sum of approximately $6,900. Mr. Manriquez called for vote on Motion to approve this Extended Learning Time Plan and expenditures in a sum not to exceed $16,000. Motion approved.
6.9 Equipment Request: Due to the absence of Kevin McGrath, Motion was made by Julie Short to table this item until October meeting, seconded by Kenya McCormack, and passed unanimously.
6.10: Supply Request: Ana Rivera recommended the request for the purchase of projector bulbs be tabled until the October meeting due to Mr. McGrath’s absence. These bulbs refer to item 6.9 projector request above. Ana presented the renewal of the Safari Montage software for one year in the sum of $3,170.21 as it refers to Goal #1, Action #7 of our SPSA dated Nov. 10, 2010. Motion was made by Courtney Castro to table the projector bulb purchase until October meeting and to approve one year renewal of Safari Montage software in the sum of $3,170.21, seconded by Alli Colvin. Kenya McCormack questioned the amount of funds available for supply purchases. A copy of our categorical budget will be made available at our October meeting. Mr. Manriquez called for vote on the Motion to table the projector bulb purchase until October meeting and to approve one year renewal of Safari Montage software in the sum of $3,170.21. Motion approved.
6.11: Consultant Request: Ana Rivera recommended approval of Teen Truth presenting three assemblies on October 28, 2011 in conjunction with Red Ribbon Week addressing alcohol and drug use prevention in the sum of $2,610.15. Motion was made by Kenya McCormack to approve the consultant request in the sum of $2,610.15, seconded by Andrea Rojas. Julie Short advised this is a highly recommended multi-media experience that incorporates a motivational presentation with a 22-minute film created with the help of students. Ms. Short will preview the film for content and permission slips for students to view the film will be sent home. Mr. Manriquez called for vote on the Motion to approve the consultant request in the sum of $2,610.15. Motion approved.
7.0 Reports:
7.1: DAC: Our DAC representative was not present. No report given. Our need for another DAC representative was announced. Guest Margarita Adata was selected as our DAC representative.
7.2: DELAC: Ana Rivera announced we are currently without a DELAC representative. Guest Margarita Adata made known her interest in being both our DAC and DELAC representative. Motion was made by Julie Short to elect Margarita Adata as our DELAC representative, seconded by Kenya McCormack, and passed unanimously.
7.3: RAC: Maria Perez, our RAC representative was not present. No report given.
8.0 Announcements:
8.1: SSC Member Trainings: Julie Short announced Stiern will have a SSC Parent Member training on October 5, 2011 at District Offices, and a flyer was given to each parent member present. Mr. Manriquez announced the District will hold a SSC training on September 29 at District offices.
8.2: Next SSC Meeting: Julie Short recommended SSC meet October 6, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. in the Stiern Library to review SPSA, as well as have an October 13, 2011 meeting at 2:00 p.m. to summarize other issues and tabled items.
9.0 Adjournment: There being no further business to come before the Board, Motion was made by Julie Short to adjourn the meeting at 4:09 p.m., seconded by Courtney Castro, and passed unanimously.
Respectfully submitted:
_______________________________
David Manriquez, Chairperson
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Courtney Castro, Secretary
