B O A R D O F ... P L A N O I N D...

B O A R D P L A N O O F I N D E P E N D E N T T R U S T E E S S C H O O L D I S T R I C T Nancy Humphrey President David Stolle Vice President Michael Friedman Secretary Richard Matkin Superintendent of Schools Missy Bender Marilyn Hinton Carrolyn Moebius Tammy Richards Plano ISD’s Board of Trustees embraced the 2012-13 district theme, “Boldly Brilliant,” which reflected the brilliant successes of Plano ISD’s students and staff members. Keeping with the year’s theme, students from Plano Senior High School’s Fashion Design class created super hero capes for each trustee and the superintendent, and students from Plano West Senior High School’s Graphic Design and Illustration class created original super hero posters, all presented during School Board Recognition Month in January 2013. Introduction Table of Contents 1 Functions as a policy-making body PAGE 5 2 Adherence to adopted board policies PAGE 11 3 Support for educational performance in accordance with state-established standards PAGE 15 4 Support for educational improvement projects PAGE 27 PAGE 35 5 Commitment to a code of ethics 6 Provision of financial support for the school system PAGE 41 7 Participation in workshops and other performance improvement programs PAGE 49 8 Placement of the welfare of children served by the school system above personal or political motives PAGE 57 9 Public relations efforts, including community awareness PAGE 63 10 Maintenance of harmonious and supportive relationships among board members PAGE 71 Plano ISD is a district steeped in history and a tradition of excellence spanning more than 100 years. With a mission to “provide an excellent education for each student,” Plano ISD serves the residents of approximately 100 square miles in southwest Collin County. This area includes the City of Plano, as well as portions of the cities of Richardson, Dallas, Murphy, Allen, Parker, Garland, Lucas, Carrollton and Wylie. Plano ISD employs nearly 7,000 faculty and staff members who serve more than 55,000 students in 72 schools and 17 additional instructional and service facilities. The exceptional education that Plano ISD provides makes the communities it serves excellent places to live, to work and to learn. In recent years, the Plano ISD Board of Trustees has ensured that students in Plano have a variety of ways to find their fit. Through a comprehensive selection of electives, academic courses and extracurricular activities, Plano ISD is able to meet the individual needs and talents of its highly diverse student population. Plano ISD educators empower students to reach their full potential. Building on a shared vision of excellence, Plano ISD board members, administrators and faculty members focus on preparing graduates to succeed in a competitive and global society. Plano students consistently achieve the highest standards of educational excellence, with college entrance exam scores far exceeding state and national averages. The unsurpassed performance of Plano ISD students on national tests gives them a competitive edge for college admission and postgraduate success. The Plano ISD board works to support the district’s core academic curriculum, which is strengthened by a full complement of fine arts and athletics. Young scholars, artists and athletes have brought numerous regional, state and national championships to the district. Whether their post-secondary destination is college or career, Plano ISD students have a number of choices available to them. From obtaining college credit through Advanced Placement, dual credit or International Baccalaureate courses to preparing for the workforce through a comprehensive career education program, students in Plano can always find their own path to graduation. In the fall of 2013, the school board’s vision to open three specialized academies was realized, providing students even more choices in what and how they learn. Plano ISD understands that the quality of life in any community is inextricably linked to the quality of education available. It takes true teamwork to provide the excellent education that students deserve and the community has grown to expect. Plano ISD’s winning team is led by the Plano ISD Board of Trustees—the policy-making body that sets the goals and strategic direction for the district. These highly engaged elected officials are also advocates for the district’s mission. Engagement by school board members extends to all reaches of the community, through partnerships with local businesses and city government; collaborations through the Plano ISD Education Foundation; volunteers of all ages; and the dedicated 28,000 members of Plano ISD’s PTAs. The community demonstrated a clear vote of confidence in this board during the May 2013 election. As election terms were transitioning from three years to four years, five board positions were on the ballot. Those five incumbents ran in contested races and won. The board is to be commended for earning and retaining the public’s trust. 3 Functions as a policy-making body Nancy Humphrey Place 3 Ms. Humphrey was elected to serve her second term on the school board in May 2013. Her fellow trustees elected her to serve as board president for the 2013-14 school year. She served the two previous school years as board vice president. Since 2002, she has been an active PTA volunteer and officer, having served as president and treasurer of Murphy Middle School PTA and treasurer, vice president/ways & means, vice president/membership at Stinson Elementary PTA, and council delegate of Williams HS PTSA, as well as having chaired several committees. She became a Texas PTA Honorary Life Member in 2006. In 2012, she received the Texas PTA Extended Service Award. She has served as treasurer of the Williams High School Chey-Annes Drill Team Boosters and currently is treasurer for Williams High School Band Boosters. In her community, Ms. Humphrey has been involved with a number of organizations including Canyon Creek Presbyterian Church, Bentwood Trail Presbyterian Church, Boy Scout Troop 1776, Hendrick Scholarship Foundation, Heritage Farmstead Museum and SPCA. She is an active member of the Plano Rotary Club, is a graduate of Leadership Plano, Class 30, and serves an appointment on the Advisory Board of Circle Ten Council, Boy Scouts of America. She is a member of the National School Boards Association and, as a member of Texas Association of School Boards, she serves on its Legislative Advisory Council. Ms. Humphrey is a graduate of the University of North Texas with bachelor's and master's degrees in accounting. She has fifteen years of experience in both public accounting and private industry. Ms. Humphrey is a native Texan and has been a resident of Plano ISD for 21 years. She and her husband Jim have two children attending school in the district; a son in the Williams High School marching band and a daughter at Plano East Senior High school in the International Baccalaureate World School and a member of the Golden Girls drill team. “Our Board takes the authorship and adoption of policy as a profound function of our governance. We take the time to specifically localize policy to meet the needs of our community while also remaining in compliance with all existing policies. All of our polices endure an internal and external review by legal counsel to protect those which our adopted policies will affect – our students, families and staff members.” Nancy Humphrey, President The Plano ISD Board of Trustees approaches policy-making with the district’s two major ongoing district goals in mind: (1) Ensure continued improvement in student learning and (2) Ensure efficient use of financial resources/budgeting. Board-adopted policies receive prior review by internal staff and legal counsel and given appropriate distribution. Policies are accessible to staff members, parents, students and the community. Policies established or revised by the board in the last two years UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ /-ÊV>âi`Ê*VÞÊ>Õ>Ê1«`>ÌiÊ *ÕÀV>Ã}Ê>`ÊVµÕÃÌ «ÞiiÊ «>ÌÃÉÀiÛ>ViÃ Àii`ÊvÀÊÃVÀ>Ì]Ê>À>ÃÃiÌ and Retaliation `ÕVÌÊÊ-VÊ*ÀiÃiÃ V>ìVÊViÛiiÌ ÃVÊ1ÃiÊvÊ-VÊ>VÌiÃ /-ÊV>âi`Ê*VÞÊ>Õ>Ê1«`>ÌiÊn À>`Õ>Ì /-ÊV>âi`Ê*VÞÊ>Õ>Ê1«`>ÌiÊÇ i>ÛiÃÊ>`ÊLÃiViÃ ÀiìÌ>ÃÊ>`Ê,iVÀ`Ã À>`}É*À}ÀiÃÃÊ,i«ÀÌÃÊÌÊ*>ÀiÌÃ Ý>>ÌÃ >ÃÃÊ,>} ,iÌiÌÊ>`Ê*ÀÌ /-ÊV>âi`Ê*VÞÊ>Õ>Ê1«`>ÌiÊÈ Û>ÌÛiÊ>`Ê>}iÌÊ*À}À>Ã ÌiÀ`ÃÌÀVÌÊ/À>ÃviÀÃ /À>Ûi /-ÊV>âi`Ê*VÞÊ>Õ>Ê1«`>ÌiÊx ,iÃ}>Ì ÌâiÊ`ÛÃÀÞÊ ÌÌiiÃ /-ÊV>âi`Ê*VÞÊ>Õ>Ê1«`>ÌiÊ{ New policies must be relevant and adhere to local, state and federal laws and guidelines. New policies are initiated by superintendent, board member, personnel or community citizen. Two readings are required to adopt at a regular meeting. Evaluation time and support allowed for new board policies prior to making judgments and alterations Any newly proposed local policy is submitted to the superintendent. Once received, the superintendent forwards that request to the entire board. Requests for policy changes are reviewed by the superintendent’s cabinet, and then submitted for legal review prior to the first reading for consideration by the board. Such new policy will be presented for a first reading at a board meeting. Any proposed amendments will be discussed/considered at the first (or any subsequent, as necessary) reading. Amendments may be considered at any time during the adoption process. Adoption of policies will occur as an action item on the agenda at a duly called monthly board meeting. For an amendment to be considered on a policy which is on the agenda of a board meeting, a majority of the board must approve the reconsideration. If necessary, the policy may be pulled off the agenda and sent back to the superintendent for inclusion in the next scheduled board meeting. Proposed local policies will be placed for a first and second reading prior to adoption unless an emergency condition exists which demands an immediate response. Before adoption, amendments for consideration may occur. Consideration of an amendment to policy on an agenda requires approval by majority of board. Emergency condition requiring new policy will not require two readings. 7 Active school board support for the superintendent and other school personnel in carrying out policies Charged with the responsibility of providing the finest educational program possible for all students in the district, the current Plano ISD Board of Trustees has shown tremendous support for the administration and educators in Plano ISD. “This board has taken our district through very difficult financial issues and leadership changes. Among their biggest accomplishments is passing a full Tax Ratification Election (TRE) while having to make a payment back to the state.” – Superintendent of Schools Richard Matkin 8 One of the most pivotal tasks undertaken by this board was the selection of a new superintendent of schools in 2012. Trustees developed a candidate profile through careful consideration and input from a variety of focus groups, including students, parents, teachers, principals and community members. Ultimately selecting then Interim Superintendent and Chief Financial Officer Richard Matkin as their unanimous choice, the board was able to expand on an already established relationship. “While Richard Matkin has an unequaled reputation for financial expertise, he has the soul of an educator and spent years serving school children in the classroom. He brings the perfect balance of experiences into this leadership role and has the full support and respect of our trustees.” – Trustee and Former School Board President Tammy Richards With a newly selected superintendent to complete their Team of Eight, the Plano ISD Board of Trustees placed a priority on securing the district’s financial future and attracting and retaining the very best teachers for Plano schools. In 2011, the Texas legislature reduced funding for Plano ISD by $59 million over a two-year period. In 2013, the legislature provided partial relief, returning 29% of Plano’s funds, compared to the state average of 77%. The unrestored loss of $466 per student left the district with a $20 million deficit. Facing this financial setback and wanting to sustain Plano ISD’s enriched educational offerings while maintaining the district’s track record for fiscal responsibility, the board of trustees voted to place a Tax Ratification Election (TRE) on the November 2013 ballot, which was approved by voters. Following the district’s declaring financial exigency in January 2011 and implementing a reduction in force— and with employees seeing a 0% pay increase in 201112—the school board worked toward making Plano ISD’s compensation plan competitive with surrounding districts while maintaining efficient use of funds. The board issued a pay increase of 3% in 2012-13 and 1% in 2013-14. Due in large part to the passage of the TRE, the Plano ISD Board of Trustees and superintendent were able to devote significant dollars to support the district’s core belief of “attracting, training and retaining a highly qualified staff that is reflective of our student population.” The 2014-15 budget will include a substantial salary increase of 3.5% for all employees, reflecting raises in starting salaries and other financial benefits for the district’s more than 6,500 employees. “It is very important that we send a signal to the employees that part of the tax-rate election was to put more teachers back in the classroom and be able to give the teachers and employees a raise. I really appreciate the board’s receptive nature to that and putting it in the compensation plan rather than spreading it out to other areas of the budget.” – Superintendent of Schools Richard Matkin Input from Professional Staff and/or Patrons into the Policy-Making Process An important foundation for Plano ISD trustees is to represent their constituency as a community-based board. Soliciting and capitalizing on staff and community input is at the forefront of their service. The district hosts several advisory committees including the Faculty Council, the Administrative Council and the Student Advisory Committee. The Academy Programs of Plano, featuring three new programs of choice for Plano ISD students, are the direct result of the board’s collaboration with professional staff and the community. The board provides opportunities for policy input at each board meeting, allowing speakers to comment on agenda and non-agenda items. Additionally, surveys are sometimes utilized in regard to policy. The board used surveys and focus groups in their recent five-year revision of the Plano ISD strategic plan, calling upon Rice University to assist with community surveying. Community surveying was also utilized in their search for a new superintendent. Recently, the board conducted a survey of parents and staff members regarding the 2014-15 academic calendar. With more than 4,000 responses, the board was able to use that input in their decision to implement a new fall break schedule, providing students and teachers an entire week off for the Thanksgiving holiday. “Due to the financial stewardship of Superintendent Matkin and the Plano ISD administrative team, the district has been able to successfully manage a deficit budget with minimal effect on student instruction by using our reserves and making purposeful budget reductions including the elimination of staff at all levels. However, we must use our last resource for funding relief in a creative manner to avoid severe cuts that will forever redefine our district.” – School Board President Nancy Humphrey 9 Adherence to adopted board policies Carrolyn Moebius Place 2 Ms. Moebius was elected to serve her second term on the school board in May 2013. She and her husband Jim run a family-owned veterinary hospital where she serves as the hospital administrator. She has previously worked as an auditor for Ernst and Young in Houston and Doll, Karahal and Company in Dallas. Ms. Moebius served as treasurer and president of the Martha Hunt Elementary School PTA. She has also served as vice president of volunteers at Murphy Middle School and as a member of the Murphy School Based Improvement Committee. She is a member of Plano Rotary Club and is a Paul Harris Fellow, National Charity League’s Golden Corridor Chapter serving on the philanthropy committee, Conner Harrington Republican Women as assistant legislative chair, and she is a graduate of Leadership Plano Class 28. During 2012, she was selected as a member of the Leadership TASB (Texas Association of School Boards) class of 2013, earning the distinguished "Master Trustee" designation from TASB. Ms. Moebius attended the University of St. Thomas and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Trinity University in San Antonio. She has three children attending Plano ISD schools, at which she has served as a PTA member for 12 years. She has also served on the Plano ISD Council of PTAs' Legislative Committee and was honored with the PTA Life Membership Award in 2009. “Adhering to adopted policies is certainly a task we take seriously. Updating and maintaining our policy manual is an important piece of our work. However the task becomes greater and is accompanied by political burdens when considering policies such as those governing reductions in force (RIFS), school boundary changes and the implementation of new initiatives like our Academy Programs of Plano. We hang tough together when the decisions are difficult and enjoy the opportunity to forge new ground in support of new programs.” Carrolyn Moebius Formal procedures for initiating, adopting or changing board policies Policies and policy amendments can be initiated by the Superintendent, board members, school personnel or community citizens. Additional sources that may prompt policy review include Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) updates, local needs and governmental mandates. Plano ISD’s formal procedure for initiating, adopting or changing board policies begins with district staff review in consultation with the district’s executive leadership team. Before policies are presented for adoption to the board, the district’s legal counsel reviews all content. Proposed local policies or amendments introduced and recommended to the board at one meeting will not be adopted until favorably voted on during two meetings of the board. Emergency adoption, however, may occur during one meeting if special circumstances demand an immediate response. Local policies shall become effective upon board adoption or at a future date designated by the board at the time of adoption. Board members have access to digital and hardcopy policy manuals. Each member is responsible for becoming familiar with these resources and accessing them accordingly. A review of policies is coordinated by the superintendent’s designee and policy specialist assigned. The superintendent’s designee may elect to delegate portions of the process to appropriate board liaisons. The superintendent or designee ensures that policy remains relevant to local circumstances and that all district staff has adequate knowledge of board policies. 13 The first reading occurs at a duly called board meeting for the board’s consideration. Second (or any subsequent, as necessary) readings of local policies, and any revisions, will occur at the next scheduled board meeting. Adoption of such revised policies occurs as an action item on the agenda at a duly called monthly board meeting. For a revision to be considered, a majority of the board must approve the reconsideration. If necessary, the policy may be pulled from the agenda and sent back to the superintendent or designee for inclusion in the next scheduled board meeting. After adoption, the superintendent or designee is responsible for incorporating revisions into the board’s policy manual. Local policy revisions are placed, at a minimum, for a first and second reading prior to adoption unless an emergency condition exists which demands an immediate response. Legal policy updates, which are provided by TASB in response to legislative or governmental actions, are reviewed with a first and second reading at duly posted board meetings. No action is required as these policies are immediately binding. Frequency of policy review, including last date of review and revision Review of district policy is a continuous process to ensure that existing policies are relevant to current local circumstances. Reviews are also initiated by TASB localized policy manual updates. Policy updates occur at almost every regular board meeting. Procedure for updating and maintaining policy book Immediately following adoption by the board, policies are sent to TASB for processing and placement in the online policy manual, “Policy OnLine.” Hard copies of the updated polices are placed in the official district policy manual, and historical records for each new or revised policy are compiled and scanned. Board decisions based on policy statements that have been implemented when such action was opposed by others 14 Representing a constituency of 208,242, the Plano ISD Board of Trustees understands that their decisions affect many. While some issues and policies are neutral or common place, some issues facing the board garner a great deal of community input, charged opinions from students and families and result in a great deal of board action scrutiny. Boundary Change The board was faced with a complicated issue when planning for the opening of its sixth high school (McMillen High School) which would require a boundary change in 2011. To build the student population at the new school, the Plano ISD trustees adopted a feeder transition plan for the district impacting students at Schimelpfenig Middle School, Clark High School, Jasper High School and McMillen High School. Although this was a divisive topic within the community at-large, and following focus groups and public meetings, ultimately the board rallied to a unified position to best meet the needs of the school community. The school feeder patterns have now been fully implemented which provides capacity to implement new programs while also balancing enrollments. As part of a presentation about Plano ISD’s new Campus Protection Patrol Program, in partnership with area law enforcement agencies, a patrol car was on display at a fall 2013 meeting of the Plano ISD Key Communicators. Safety and Security The safety and security of students, staff and school patrons has remained on the national agenda of concern. While most districts were grappling with indecision, Plano ISD surged forward with an aggressive security plan for the fall of 2013, which was underscored by the launch of the Campus Protection Patrol Program. Uniformed police officers contracted through local law enforcement agencies patrol middle, elementary and early childhood schools in marked police vehicles provided by Plano ISD. Additional security measures include the ongoing modifications to further secure campuses such as multilayered secured entrances. The new security features complement Plano ISD’s existing measures and provide added safety to all campuses. The security of Plano ISD campuses and school facilities will remain at the forefront of district priorities. The district’s position on campus and facility security resulted in a complex but mutually beneficial partnership between Plano ISD and local law enforcement agencies. A partnership of this scale may be unlikely in other areas, but represents quality work toward a collective community goal of safety. The Plano ISD Board of Trustees had to reach a reasonable plan that was palatable to the entire community while also confirming all aspects of security were being considered. Among a large community school population, there are some who argued that the measures taken changed the open culture of many of the district’s campuses yet the board of trustees opted for a stringent plan of safety as the nation focused on security issues at-large. Availability of board policies to district personnel and the community UÊ *>Ê-Ê«ViÃÊ>ÀiÊ>Û>>LiÊÊ*VÞÊ"i through the district website at www.pisd.edu/policies UÊ /iÊvwV>Ê«VÞÊ>Õ>ÊvÊÌiÊ`ÃÌÀVÌÊÃÊ>Ì>i` in the communications office. UÊ /iÊ-ÌÕìÌÊ*>ÀiÌÉ*VÞÊÕìÊÃÊÕ«`>Ìi`ÊÞi>ÀÞ and is available to students and parents in either an electronic or paper copy accessible online or by contacting individual campus offices. Support for educational performance in accordance with state-established standards Missy Bender Place 7 Ms. Bender was elected to serve a third term in May 2013. She held the office of Board Secretary from 2008 to 2011. Ms. Bender graduated from Plano East Senior High School as a member of its charter class. She received a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Southern Methodist University and began her career as a management consultant specializing in strategic planning and technology solutions for Fortune 500 clients in North America and Europe. She currently serves as the Vice President of Governance Solutions for the Center for Reform of School Systems. She serves as a member of the Chairman’s Council for Texas Health Resources Plano, Conner Harrington Republican Women Club, National Charity League, Women Making a Difference, Jasper High School PTSA, and as a Board member for the Jasper Choir Booster Club. Ms. Bender is a graduate of Leadership Plano, Leadership St. Andrew, Leadership TASB (Texas Association of School Boards) and Leadership Texas. She was appointed by TASB to the Texas Education Agency as the only Trustee that served on the state’s Accountability Policy Advisory Committee. Ms. Bender earned the prestigious designation of “Master Trustee” from TASB, is a Fellow with the Center for Reform of School Systems, was named one of “21 Leaders for the 21st Century” by Inside Collin County Business and was honored as a PTA Life Member. She is a co-founder of Trustees for Texas, a non-profit organization whose purpose is to create a unified and powerful voice to transform education in Texas. She is also a frequent presenter at state and national school board conferences. “No one is more prideful of the many accomplishments of our students and staff than the Board of Trustees. Accompanied with that pride comes the responsibility to hold our district accountable for results received whether exemplary or those needing more focus. I’m pleased that we frequently host an instructional showcase at our regular board meetings and that our trustees are committed to immense study to maintain a level of understanding in order to actively participate in the accountability function of our district.” Missy Bender Descriptive data that profiles student performance and gains in student performance Student success is demonstrated in many ways in Plano ISD. Trustees have been champions for offering students in Plano various opportunities to find their own paths to and beyond graduation. The board believes that student assessment provides necessary information to improve student performance and that assessment data should be analyzed for the purpose of setting priorities for instructional decision-making, allocating system resources and setting accountability goals. Plano ISD trustees encourage the use of a variety of assessment techniques to capture the breadth and depth of student learning and that student performance should be measured over time. Students in Plano ISD have consistently performed at significantly higher levels on state and national assessments as compared to their peers across Texas and the U.S. College and career readiness for all students begins in Plano ISD early childhood programs and continues through high school graduation. Post-secondary readiness assessments measure the preparedness of students for rigorous work required for a career or college educations. 2013 Accountability Summary ÃÊ>ÊÃVÊ`ÃÌÀVÌ]Ê*>Ê-ÊÃVÀi`Êä¯ÊÊÌiÊÃÌÕìÌÊ>ViÛiiÌÊ«iÀvÀ>ViÊìÝ]ÊÕìÀÊÌiÊÃÌ>Ìi½ÃÊiÜÊ >VVÕÌ>LÌÞÊÀ>Ì}ÊÃÞÃÌi°ÊÊÈÈÊÀ>Ìi`Ê*>Ê-ÊÃVÃÊiÌÊ>Ê{ÊìÝÊÃÌ>`>À`Ã°Ê/iÊÕLiÀÃÊÕÌi`ÊÊÌiÊ green boxes are the benchmark percentages for all Texas students. The numbers at the top of each bar are Plano -½ÃÊ«iÀViÌ>}iÃÊvÊÃÌÕìÌÃÊÜÊiÌÊi>VÊvÊÌiÊvÕÀÊìÝÊÃÌ>`>À`Ã°Ê/ÃÊiÜÊV>«ÕÃÊ`ÃÌVÌÊvÀÊÓä£Î£{ÊÃÊ>Ê i>ÃÕÀiÊvÊVÃ}ÊÌiÊ>ViÛiiÌÊ}>«ÊV«>Ài`ÊÜÌÊ{äÊÃ>ÀÊV>«ÕÃiÃÊÃÌ>ÌiÜì° 2013 Plano ISD Accountability Rating Met Standard (Met all 4 index standards) INDEX 1: INDEX 2: INDEX 3: INDEX 4: Student Achievement Student Progress Closing Performance Gaps Post-secondary Readiness 90 17 88 79 75 55 50 39 21 Distinction Designations Campuses that receive an accountability rating of Met Standard are eligible for the following distinction designations in 2013. Earned all 3 Distinctions Earned 2 Distinctions Earned 1 Distinction Earned 1 or more Distinction 16 15 13 44 Plano Elementary 7 8 7 22 UÊ/«ÊÓx¯Ê-ÌÕìÌÊ*À}ÀiÃÃ Middle 8 1 4 13 UÊV>ìVÊViÛiiÌÊÊÊ Reading/English language Ê >ÀÌÃÊ® High 1 3 2 6 NA 3 0 3 UÊV>ìVÊViÛiiÌÊÊÊ Mathematics Senior High Satisfactory 91 90 91 82 81 76 63 61 58 54 STAAR Grades 3-8 34 94 92 84 Math Reading Social Studies Science Writing Math STATE Reading PLANO 41 51 32 48 33 26 Social Studies 79 Science 80 Writing 92 College and Career Ready 93 88 79 78 78 77 69 55 55 STAAR End of Course PLANO STATE Writing II Reading II Writing I Reading I Biology Algebra I 18 College Entrance Exams SAT and ACT scores in Plano ISD exceed both state and national averages. The incomparable performance of Plano ISD students on these exams and boasting two U.S. Presidential Scholars and 208 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists over the past two years provides a competitive edge for college admission and higher education success. In 2013, 2,682 Plano ISD seniors (71% of the class) took the SAT and 1,964 (52%) took the ACT. 2013 ACT Composite Scores 30 2013 SAT Average Scores Math Writing 20 15 10 450 500 550 600 5 0 NATION NATION STATE STATE PLANO ISD Critical Reading 400 25 PLA NO ISD AP Exams Through the Advanced Placement (AP) Program, Plano ISD has opened the door for many students to take AP and honors courses. Plano ISD’s AP program is one of the largest in the nation. In 2013: UÊ {Î¯ÊÎ]ÎäÈ®ÊvÊ*>Ê-ÊÃiÀÊ}ÊÃVÊÃÌÕìÌÃÊÌÊ*ÊÊ tests for college credit and 31% (2,541) of high school students took AP tests for college credit. 2013 Plano West Senior High School salutatorian and U.S. Presidential Scholar Kimberley Yu. UÊ £Ó]xnÊiÝ>ÃÊÜiÀiÊ>`ÃÌiÀi`ÊÌÊÃÌÕìÌÃÊÊ*>Ê-Ê}ÊÊ schools and senior high schools, an increase from 11,508 exams administered the previous year. UÊ Ç¯ÊvÊ*ÊÌiÃÌÊÃVÀiÃÊ>ÌÊÌiÊ}ÊÃVÃÊ>`ÊÃiÀÊ}ÊÃVÃÊÊ were 3, 4 or 5; and 132 middle school students in Plano ISD who took the AP Spanish exam had a 73% passing rate. AP Exam Participation in Plano ISD Senior High Schools (Grades 11-12) 3400 3306 3300 43% 3209 3200 3156 43% 3100 3000 42% 2905 2900 41% 2802 2800 30% 2700 2012 Plano East Senior High School valedictorian and U.S. Presidential Scholar Amy Chyao pictured with U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and Dr. Kenneth Balkus, Jr., University of Texas at Dallas professor. 2600 2500 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 International Baccalaureate Program The IB World School at Plano East is a rigorous course of study designed to meet the needs of highly motivated secondary students and to promote international understanding. Many students earning the IB diploma are awarded advanced college credit at prestigious universities around the world. In 2013, Plano ISD had 113 full diploma candidates in the IB program, 80 IB diplomas were awarded and students took 767 IB exams. 767 687 665 642 623 641 567 558 486 Full Diploma Candidates 362 IB Diplomas Awarded IB Exams Taken 68 97 44 2008-09 109 60 2009-10 76 2010-11 98 113 77 2011-12 80 2012-13 Exams Passed 19 Collin College Dual Enrollment Since fall, 2005, Plano ISD has offered a dual enrollment program through Collin College. Spring 2013 enrollment was 511 students. Fall 2013 enrollment is 665 students. Students earned college credit through Collin College in the following courses: US History, Government, Economics and English IV. Evidence of support for programs that contribute to high performance at district and campus levels CoreWork® Diagnostics During the 2012-13 and 2013-14 school years, Plano ISD implemented CoreWork® Diagnostics with student learning, capacity development and data-informed decision-making as strategies to improve student achievement. The district reviews critical actions from the spring diagnostics to determine developing practices and leverage points to focus on at the district level in the following school years. Support is provided by the district for each campus improvement plan built around its CoreWork® efforts. AVID Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID)’s mission is to close the achievement gap by preparing all students for college readiness and success in a global society. Every Plano ISD secondary campus supports the AVID program. Several elementary schools are piloting the AVID program. Plano ISD Advanced Academics Programs To help students invest in their future, Plano ISD provides students with a wide array of advanced academic courses, programs and competitions that appeal to varied interests, experiences and educational goals. Students learn and grow through meaningful educational challenge. Participating in one or more advanced academic opportunities allows students to explore existing talents while uncovering new talents. Advanced academic opportunities begin in the elementary years and increase in frequency at the secondary level in Plano ISD. 20 Measuring Against State Standards What students have learned – What they are ready to learn MAP Assessment Descartes Classroom Assessment STAAR Curriculum Plan TPRI/TLee How students learn TELPAS Instructional Adaptation: Strategies Scaffolding Grouping Differentiation College Readiness Standards EXPLORE PLAN TEKS CogAT Verbal Battery CogAT Nonverbal Battery CogAT Quantitative Battery Lesson Development and Delivery Assessment & Accountability Initiatives Plano ISD believes assessment data should be reported to students, parents, the community and the mandated state and federal education authorities for the purpose of building partnerships in education. Tests include: UÊ i>ÃÕÀiÃÊvÊV>ìVÊ*À}ÀiÃÃ (MAP) – Plano ISD uses the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) achievement tests designed to measure growth in student learning. MAP tests produce scores that make it possible to monitor student growth from year to year along developmental curriculum cales. UÊ }/ÊqÊ }ÌÛiÊLÌiÃÊ/iÃÌ\ The CogAT is a nationally normed test of developed academic reasoning skills. It assesses changeable reasoning ability rather than innate (fixed) ability. The test is administered to grades 3, 5, 7 and 9 and for PACE (Plano ISD’s gifted and talented program) assessment. Plano ISD employees have hosted the Texas MAP Users’ Conference for six consecutive years. Pictured are Michael Lindsey, Bowman Middle School 8th grade science teacher, and assessment and accountability teammates Lydia Li, data management coordinator; Jeannette Ginther, secondary achievement specialist; Dr. Paul Dabbs, assistant director of campus and data support; Sandi Youngblood, office manager; Jennifer Ruth, elementary achievement specialist; and Dr. Dash Weerasinghe, executive director. UÊ *-/ÊqÊ*Ài>ÀÞÊ-/ÊÉ >Ì> Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test: The district funds this exam for grade 10, administered to assess skills in verbal reasoning, critical reading, math problem-solving and writing. It is also the qualifying method for the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) programs. Professional Development UÊ ÕÌÕÀ>Ê «iÌiVÞÊqÊÌÌiì`ÊLÞÊ>Êi«ÞiiÃ to improve relationships with students, parents, the community and colleagues. UÊ iÌÀÊ*À}À>ÊqÊÊiÜÊÌi>ViÀÃÊ>ÀiÊ«>Ài`ÊÜÌÊ> mentor teacher at their campus. UÊ -Ê iÀÌwV>ÌÊqÊiiÌ>ÀÞÊÌi>ViÀÃÊ>ÀiÊV«iÌ} requirements for state English as a Second Language (ESL) supplemental certification. UÊ vÌi`Ê>`Ê/>iÌi`ÊqÊÝ«iÀiViÊvÀÊÌi>ViÀÃÊÌ complement existing curriculum training. UÊ -ÕiÀÊi>À}ÊqÊ"«Ì>ÊÕÌ`>ÞÊ«ÀviÃÃ> development opportunity attended by approximately 1,600 elementary faculty and staff in 2013. UÊ ÕÀÀVÕÕÊiÃ}Ê*ÀiVÌÃÊqÊÊ««ÀÌÕÌÞÊvÀ secondary teachers to perfect their instructional design skills. UÊ /i>Êi>ìÀÊV>ìÞÊqÊ««ÀÝ>ÌiÞÊ£ääÊÌi> leaders, department chairs and future leaders from each campus attend this annual weeklong training. UÊ *ÀviÃÃ>Êi>À}Ê ÕÌiÃÊqÊ/i>ViÀÃÊ>` campus administrators collaborate to investigate, research and develop action plans to address local student needs. UÊ *ÊÎÈäcÊqÊLÀ>ÀÞÊvÊ«ÀviÃÃ>ÊÛìÃÊvVÕÃi`Ê work of internationally acclaimed experts and educators in classrooms across the nation. University Partners Student Teaching Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê Ê UÊ/iÝ>ÃÊ ÀÃÌ>Ê1ÛiÀÃÌÞ UÊ/iÝ>ÃÊ/iVÊ1ÛiÀÃÌÞ UÊ/iÝ>ÃÊ7>½ÃÊ1ÛiÀÃÌÞÊ UÊ1ÛiÀÃÌÞÊvÊ ÀÌÊ/iÝ>Ã UÊ-ÕÌiÀÊiÌ`ÃÌÊ1ÛiÀÃÌÞ UÊ-Ìi«iÊ°ÊÕÃÌÊ-Ì>ÌiÊ1ÛiÀÃÌÞ UÊ/iÊ1ÛiÀÃÌÞÊvÊ/iÝ>ÃÊ>ÌÊ>>ÃÊ UÊ/iÝ>ÃÊEÊ1ÛiÀÃÌÞÊÊ iÀViÊ UÊ/iÝ>ÃÊEÊ1ÛiÀÃÌÞÊÊ i}iÊ-Ì>Ì UÊ>ÞÀÊ1ÛiÀÃÌÞ UÊ>>ÃÊ>«ÌÃÌÊ1ÛiÀÃÌÞ Alternative Certification Programs Ê UÊ,i}Ê£ä Ê UÊ-ÕÌiÀÊiÌ`ÃÌÊ1ÛiÀÃÌÞ 21 Examples of recognition received for educational performance College Board’s 4th Annual AP® District Honor Roll Plano ISD is one of 477 school districts in the U.S. and Canada and 14 school districts in Texas to be honored by the College Board with placement on the 4th Annual AP® District Honor Roll. The recognition is based on increasing access to AP® course work while simultaneously maintaining or increasing the percentage of students earning scores of 3 or higher on AP Exams. Reaching these goals indicates that the district is successfully identifying motivated, academically prepared students who are likely to benefit from rigorous AP course work. Since 2011, Plano ISD has increased the number of students participating in AP by 4% while improving the percentage of students earning AP Exam scores of 3 or higher by 5%. 22 “We applaud the extraordinary efforts of the devoted teachers and administrators in this district who are offering more students the opportunity to engage in rigorous college-level course work. These outcomes are a powerful testament to educators’ belief that a more diverse population of students is ready for the sort of rigor that will prepare them for success in college.” – Trevor Packer, College Board Senior Vice President of AP and Instruction. Paul Weaver, Plano ISD assistant executive director of guidance and family education services and College Board trustee, shared the details of Plano ISD’s being named to the AP® District Honor Roll at the December 2013 school board meeting. TI Innovations in STEM Teaching Awards For the past eight years, the Plano ISD Education Foundation has embraced its work with the Texas Instruments Foundation to recognize outstanding Plano ISD teachers of secondary science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The Innovations in STEM Teaching Awards recognize outstanding secondary teachers. Recipients annually each receive a $5,000 personal cash award and a $5,000 award that will go toward their school for classroom technology or professional development opportunities. Finalists annually each receive a $500 award. The total gift received to date from the Texas Instruments Foundation is $31,500. The most recent STEM Teaching Award recipients were named at the May 2013 school board meeting. Pictured are Carlos Sastoque, Plano ISD Education Foundation executive director; Ann Pomykal, Texas Instruments Foundation director for major education grants; STEM teaching award winners Deanna Shea, Heather Simpson and Dusty Vincer; Karen Shepherd, secondary science coordinator; and Jaime Beringer, Plano ISD Education Foundation secretary Additional Honors UÊ iÌÞvÕÀÊ«iÀViÌÊvÊ*>Ê-Ê}À>`Õ>ÌiÃÊ«ÕÀÃÕiÊ}iÀ education. UÊ *>Ê-½ÃÊÌÀiiÊÃiÀÊ}ÊÃVÃÊ>ÛiÊLiiÊ>i` in recent years among America’s best schools by Newsweek magazine. Four-time Regional Spelling Bee champion Chetan Reddy pictured with Plano Mayor Harry LaRosiliere who presented Chetan with a certificate of achievement for his 7th place finish at the 2013 Scripps National Spelling Bee. UÊ /ÜÊ*>Ê-ÊÃVÃÊV>«ÌÕÀi`ÊÓä£ÓÊ*ÀÃ}Ê*À>VÌVi awards through the national Character Education Partnership (CEP). Thomas Elementary School’s Anti Bullying Rally and Campaign and Plano West Senior High School Theatre’s “Save a Life” play were awarded by CEP. UÊ /ÜiÌÞÌÀiiÊ*>Ê-ÊÃVÃÊ>ÛiÊV>«ÌÕÀi`ÊÌi prestigious National Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence honor, awarded by the U.S. Department of Education. Three of the schools have been twice awarded through the national program. UÊ *>Ê-ÊÜ>ÃÊ>Ü>Àì`Ê>ÃÊiÊvÊÌiÊºiÃÌÊ£ää Communities for Music Education in America” in surveys conducted by several national music and education organizations. Plano ISD has made this list each year since the start of the program in 1999. UÊ *>Ê-½ÃÊ{{ÊiiiÌ>ÀÞÊÃVÃÊV>«ÌÕÀi`ÊLÀâi awards through the United States Department of Agriculture’s HealthierUS School Challenge program. The award recognizes schools that are creating healthier environments through their promotion of good nutrition and physical activity. UÊ /iÊi>ÌÞÊ<iÊ-VÊ«À}À>]ÊÃ«ÃÀi`ÊLÞÊÌiÊ1Ìi`Ê7>ÞÊvÊiÌÀ«Ì>Ê>>ÃÊ>`Ê/iÊ «iÀÊÃÌÌÕÌi] Ê iVÕÀ>}iÃÊVÕÌÞÊi>ÌÊ>`ÊÜÀÃÊÌÊÀi`ÕViÊV``ÊLiÃÌÞ°Êi>ÌÞÊ<iÊ-VÃÊÊ*>Ê-Ê>Ài Bethany, Huffman, Jackson, Rasor and Thomas elementary schools. UÊ iÌ>Ê,i``Þ]Ê,ViÊ`ìÊ-V]ÊV>«ÌÕÀi`ÊvÕÀÊ>Õ>ÊV>«Ã«ÃÊÊÌiÊ>>ÃÊÀ}Ê iÜÃÊ,i}> Spelling Bee. Chetan finished in 7th place at the 2013 Scripps National Spelling Bee. Visionary Leadership UÊ *>Ê-ÊÝiVÕÌÛiÊÀiVÌÀÊ>`Ê ivÊÕ> Resources Officer Tamira Griffin captured the Texas Association of Personnel Administrators’ 2012-13 Dr. Mary Hopkins TASPA Administrator of the Year Award. UÊ *>ÕÊ7i>ÛiÀ]Ê>ÃÃÃÌ>ÌÊiÝiVÕÌÛiÊ`ÀiVÌÀÊv guidance and family education services, was elected by member delegates to serve on the board of trustees for the College Board. UÊ ÀÕViÊ,V>À`Ã]Ê*>Ê-iÀÊ}Ê-V director of guidance, served as chair of the Southwestern Regional College Board Forum in 2012-13. UÊ *>Ê7iÃÌÊ-iÀÊ}Ê-V½ÃÊÊ7>>ViLLi captured finalist standing in the first-ever GRAMMY Music Educator Award competition. Human Resources Executive Director and 2013 TASPA Administrator of the Year Tamira Griffin (standing center) pictured with colleagues Andrea Hoffman and Jun Melvin (seated); Welch Vizzo, Becky Wussow, Suzanne Drotman and John Burdett. 23 UÊ Õ`ÌÊÀ>Vi]Ê, ]ÊV>«ÌÕÀi`ÊÌiÊÓä£ÎÊ/iÝ>ÃÊ ÕÀÃiÊvÊÌiÊ9i>ÀÊ>Ü>À`°Ê/iÊ >ÀÃiÊiiÌ>ÀÞÊ-VÊÕÀÃiÊÃ described as a leader and “go to” colleague for nurses across Plano ISD. UÊ *>Ê-iÀÊ}ÊÞÃÊ-VViÀÊ >VÊLÊ7iÀÊViiLÀ>Ìi`ÊxääÊÜÃÊÊ>Õ>ÀÞÊ£Î]ÊÓä£Ó]ÊÜÌÊ>ÊÛVÌÀÞÊ>}>ÃÌ Richardson High School. UÊ -Ì>ÌiÊ ÕÃi}ÊÃÃV>ÌÊ*ÀiÃìÌÊ>`Ê*ÀiÃìÌÊiVÌÊ*>Ê7iÃÌÊ-iÀÊ}Ê-VÊ ÕÃiÀÊV>i Kaprelian served as president of the Texas School Counselors’ Association in 2011-12. UÊ -iÛiÀ>Ê*>Ê-ÊÃVÃ½ÊVÕÃi}Ê«À}À>ÃÊV>«ÌÕÀi`ÊÓä£ÓÊ>`ÊÓä£ÎÊ/iÝ>ÃÊ-VÊ ÕÃiÀÊÃÃV>Ì CREST (Counselors Reinforcing Excellence for Students in Texas) awards. UÊ i`>Ê-Ì]Êi>ìÀÊvÊ*>Ê-½ÃÊi>ÌÊ>`Ê«ÞÃV>Êi`ÕV>ÌÊ«À}À>Ã]ÊV>«ÌÕÀi`Ê`ÃÌÀ>ÌÀÊv Ê ÌiÊ9i>ÀÊ>VV>ìÃÊvÀÊ/*,Ê/iÝ>ÃÊÃÃV>ÌÊvÀÊi>Ì]Ê*°°]Ê,iVÀi>ÌÊEÊ>Vi®°Ê UÊ >ÊÀÃÌÀ}]Ê>ÃÃV>ÌiÊÃÕ«iÀÌiìÌÊvÀÊÌiV}ÞÊ«iÀ>ÌÃ]ÊÃÊiÊvÊäÊi`ÕV>ÌÊ«ÀviÃÃ>ÃÊÊÌiÊ1°-° to achieve the Certified Education Technology Leader (CETL)™ certification in 2013. The certification is one way to ensure a deep understanding of all facets of educational technology leadership. Trends in student performance and evidence of support for efforts to correct deficiencies in student performance Studying STAAR Results to Close Achievement Gaps 24 School trustees have adopted an initiative to accelerate individual student learning trajectories and improved proficiency on the STAAR exams. Strategies include providing analyses of results to school principals, on-site training for campus staff to fully utilize information available on the district’s online performance management portal and English Language Development training for staff at all Title I campuses. Initiatives include Lead4ward training to improve understanding of readiness and support of TEKS standards, monthly meetings hosted by elementary instructional specialists for elementary faculty to review targeted reading and math intervention strategies for struggling learners and parent education programs focusing on literacy and math at Title 1 and early childhood campuses. Assessments Measure Student Preparedness and Identify Need for Early Academic Intervention Plano ISD endeavors that all students are post-secondary ready and have an opportunity to choose a path and, if necessary, make career changes even after graduating from senior high school. MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) tests provide an accurate prediction of a student’s STAAR (State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness) performance at satisfactory and advanced levels. STAAR provides an accurate prediction of a student’s preparedness and likelihood for success in the next grade level or course. STAAR measures whether a student is on track for college and career readiness. Longitudinal data systems enable Plano ISD educators to identify students in need of academic intervention at an early stage, when problems are still solvable, giving teachers and students more time to strengthen these skills before graduation. The MAP-focused data analysis provides a structured process for analyzing and discussing student growth in the general learning domains of reading, mathematics and science. Each student’s performance on the nationally normed MAP test is compared to the growth demonstrated by Plano ISD students in prior years who shared the same starting point on the growth scale. Scale scores and performance levels convey information about how a student performed in the current year. Progress measures provide additional information by communicating how much the student has improved from the prior year to the current year. When used together, this information provides a more complete picture of the student’s achievement Student & Family Services Through the leanest financial crises, including reductions in force and drastic program cuts due chiefly to a 20-year-old “Robin Hood” system of school funding in Texas, the Plano ISD Board of Trustees has found innovative ways to support a wide array of student and family service programs. These programs address the academic and social needs of students through campus-based initiatives. The board’s goal is to see every student successful at his or her home campus and in the community. PreK-12 Counseling and Guidance The purpose of Plano ISD’s school guidance program is to promote and enhance the learning process. School counselors work closely with administrators, teachers, parents and the community to support the Plano ISD mission and accomplish goals with focus on three strands of guidance: academic success, career information and personal/social development. Family Education & Guidance Services The school board’s mission for family education and guidance services is to strengthen all families in the community by providing education, resources and services which support rearing responsible, self-confident, emotionally healthy children in today’s complex society. These programs provide a unique blend of services for students, families and campuses. The menu includes parent education classes, family literacy, social services, adult education including GED, financial information, literacy, and court compliance programs - such as For Kids’ Sake, Back to Basics and Truancy Prevention Boot Camp. The elementary guidance program in Plano ISD has a focus on academic success, personal and social growth (including personal safety) and career and college information. The elementary counselors respond to student and family needs with the guidance curriculum, responsive services, individual planning and system support. The guidance curriculum components are self-confidence, motivation to achieve, decision-making (including goal-setting, planning, problem-solving skills), interpersonal effectiveness (including social skills), communication skills, cross-cultural effectiveness, and responsible behavior. eSchool Plano ISD eSchool, designed and implemented by Plano ISD faculty and staff, enables students to take high school courses online, on their own time, wherever access is available to the Internet and a computer. Students have the opportunity to interact with a group of recognized, experienced and well-trained teachers as they work through the curriculum independently. Since February 2001, Plano ISD eSchool has served more than 30,000 high school students in Texas, the United States and other countries. Plano ISD eSchool students have a completion rate of 87% and an overall passing rate of 96%. Summer Opportunities for Learning The 10,000 students who annually attend Plano ISD’s summer school program are given opportunities to study curriculum that reinforces and/or enriches skills and knowledge learned during the regular school year. Two types of curricula are offered: the regular program and the enrichment program. Additionally, classes provide students with an environment that is both stimulating and encouraging. Discipline Management Program The Discipline Management Program was created by Plano ISD in an attempt to better understand students and the problems they face in today’s world. The focal point of the program is the students’ awareness that a school and parent partnership is formed to address student needs and problems. The root cause of unacceptable behavior must be dealt with through the program if a change is to be brought about. Hopefully, when the cause is determined, a positive plan can be drawn for students to bring about change in the way they relate to others. Parent Portal: Student Performance History Reports January 2013, Plano ISD added student performance history for every student to Parent Portal, the district’s online grades, attendance and assessment resource. This feature aligns with the district’s belief that assessment provides the information necessary to improve student performance and that assessment data should be analyzed for the purpose of setting priorities for instructional decision-making, allocating system resources and setting accountability goals. By selecting each student’s name in the performance management section of Parent Portal’s home page, parents can view learning growth charts, including a guide for interpreting student assessment history. Learning growth charts detail student scores by test and year. Notes clarify the subjects tested with each assessment. 25 Support for educational improvement projects Michael Friedman Place 4 Mr. Friedman was elected to serve his first term on the board in May, 2011. He was elected by fellow trustees to serve as board secretary for the 2013-14 school year. A senior vice president of retail brokerage services for CB Richard Ellis, Inc., Mr. Friedman earned his bachelor's degree from the University of North Texas and his master's degree in design studies from Harvard University. Born In Dallas, Mr. Friedman is a graduate of Hillcrest High School in Dallas ISD. His recent accomplishments include being awarded 2013 UNT Alumni of the Year for community services and capturing the Stemmons Service Award - the highest honor bestowed in the commercial real estate industry in Dallas - as well as being named a recent national honoree of the Hebrew Free Loan Association. He also earned the rank of Eagle Scout in the late 1960s. His community service has included performing as “Smiley the Clown” for terminally ill children at Children’s Medical Center of Dallas and Medical City Dallas; serving on the board of directors for the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation of Dallas, the Jewish Federation of Dallas, the Bicentennial Lions Club (past president), UNT Alumni Association, UNT Board for the College of Arts & Sciences, Harvard Real Estate Academic Initiative, Cancer Foundation for Life, Jewish Family Services and Legacy Senior Communities Plano/Dallas (chairman). He also served two terms as president of his college fraternity. Mr. Friedman and his wife Terry, a former Dallas ISD teacher and current Plano ISD substitute teacher, have three children. Their two daughters are graduates of Plano West Senior High School, and their son attends Frankford Middle School. “Plano ISD uses long-range planning as a standard tool of excellence. Through our recent strategic planning process (2013), we reinforced our commitment to the whole child which demands excellence in academics, multiple choices and pathways for students while also agreeing to pursue an ultimately successful Tax Ratification Election necessary to bring needed resources to maintain challenging, rigorous programming as expected by our community.” Michael Friedman, Secretary The Plano ISD Board of Trustees and administration are among the consortium leaders who meet periodically to talk about best practices and strategies for improvement; to share learning experiences; and to develop actionable work products, position papers, articles and other materials. Approval of long-range plans for curriculum design and revisions and other phases of the academic program Western States Benchmarking Consortium Plano ISD is a founding member, along with six other school districts, of the Western States Benchmarking Consortium (WSBC), which is committed to creating world-class school districts by focusing on student learning, establishing and using performance benchmarks, fostering connections to the larger society and articulating a clear, compelling and hopeful vision for the future of public education. Consortium members have developed common definitions of organizational effectiveness, or “benchmarks,” which articulate the steps toward achieving the highest quality public education. These statements have assisted districts and schools in recognizing and acting on key areas of emphasis to improve learning for all students. The statements also have provided a vehicle for sharing best practices and strategies for improvement. This year, a consortium work group is creating a matrix of roles, responsibilities and support related to instructional quality. After completing the matrix, the consortium plans to update the WSBC benchmark framework with an emphasis on systems that develop and continuously improve instructional quality. Graduation Requirements With the adoption of House Bill 5 by the Texas Legislature in 2013 came sweeping reform in curriculum, assessment and accountability requirements. The Plano ISD Board of Trustees empowered the administration to prepare for these changes by working to help shape legislation and by responding to it. District committees were formed to address each requirement. Training and related information sessions were provided to counselors, other affected staff members, students, and parents. Plano ISD offers a wide spectrum of courses and encourages secondary students to take additional courses to gain as much experience as possible to prepare them for postgraduation success. The new graduation plan, adopted by the school board in the spring of 2014, has changed the course choices available for students so that they can be based upon students’ interests and future career goals. This graduation plan helps students to focus earlier and engages families and learners to make informed choices. Texas High School Diploma DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT = Eligible for Top 10% Automatic Admission ALGEBRA II/ 1 Adv. Science ALGEBRA II/ 1 Adv. Science ALGEBRA II/ 1 Adv. Science ENDORSEM EN T S = ALGEBRA II/ 1 Adv. Science 26 ALGEBRA II/ 1 Adv. Science C REDI T S STEM BUSINESS & INDUSTRY ARTS & HUMANITIES PUBLIC SERVICES MULTIDISCIPLINARY 1 Math or CTE Math 1 Math or CTE Math 1 Math or CTE Math 1 Math or CTE Math 1 Math or CTE Math 1 Science or CTE Science 1 Science or CTE Science 1 Science or CTE Science* 1 Science or CTE Science 1 Science or CTE Science 2 Electives 2 Electives 2 Electives 2 Electives 2 Electives FOUNDATION = 22 CREDITS 4 English Language Arts (ELA I, II, III & advanced English) 3 Mathematics (Algebra I, Geometry, & 1 advanced math) Eligible for General Admission Required EOCs: English I and English II R/W combined Required EOC: Algebra I 3 Soc. Studies (W. Geography or W. History or combined, US History, & government/economics) 3 Science (Biology, IPC or advanced science, and additional advanced science) 2 Foreign Languages/programming* 1 Fine Art 1 Physical Education* Required EOC: US History Required EOC: Biology 5 Electives Plano ISD made a few adjustments to the state’s graduation plan where there was liberty to do so, combining the foundation plan (outlined in gray on the chart) and in the endorsements (orange areas on the chart) into a single plan called the “foundation endorsement graduation plan.” The Plano ISD plan requires 24 credits, not 22 credits, for graduation. 29 2013-16 Technology Plan “Learning in the Digital Age,” Plano ISD’s 2013-16 five-year technology plan update, focuses on preparing students to learn and work in this digital age. Updated and authored by the Plano ISD Technology Steering Committee, the plan’s design includes input provided by students, parents, teachers, support staff and administrators. The needs assessment process included online surveys, focus group sessions and workgroups. In total, 6,448 stakeholders provided input as part of this technology plan update. The challenge for this longrange plan was to rethink the possibilities this digital age provides to learning for students and teachers—to learn, unlearn and relearn as massive amounts of new information becomes available to guide understanding; to rethink how, what, where and when learning occurs. Visionary school leaders as well as prepared teachers will build upon the plan’s framework to provide opportunities for students to reach their full potential. Support for innovative programs initiated by the district 30 The Plano ISD Board of Trustees believes that today’s classroom, community and global environments demand new learning standards for students, so that they will have the ability to successfully live in, learn in, lead and contribute to a world that is truly global, connected and increasingly competitive in scope and character. Academy Programs of Plano Plano ISD opened three student choice academy programs for ninth and tenth grade students for the 201314 school year: Plano ISD Academy High School, Health Sciences Academy and IB World School at Plano East Senior High School. Each provides students with more choices in not just what they learn, but how they learn— and allows Plano ISD to serve an even greater variety of student interests and needs. Plano ISD Education Foundation The Plano ISD Education Foundation is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization whose mission is helping all students in Plano public schools achieve their full potential by providing financial support to educators and academic programs. The Foundation generates private support for priority projects identified by the district for which tax dollars are not available. All contributions stay in Plano ISD and are tax-deductible to the extent provided by law. The board of directors consists of business and community leaders who recognize the importance of excellent public schools to the Plano community. Support generated by the Plano ISD Education Foundation ensures Plano ISD remains one of the best public school districts in the nation. The Plano ISD Education Foundation was organized in 1993. Since the year 2000, more than $7 million has been gifted to Plano ISD for programs and services of importance to the school district. The Foundation’s Grants to Educators program helps Plano ISD educators enhance instruction in schools and classrooms across the district. For its third year in a row, the Foundation awarded $100,000 in grants. Since the Foundation’s inception more than $895,000 has been awarded to Plano ISD teachers through the Grants to Educators program. Evidence of exemplary student performance In addition to excelling on state and national exams, hundreds of Plano ISD students capture numerous awards through academic and extracurricular competitions each year. Awards earned during just the 2012-13 school year include: UÊ "iÊ*ÀiÃìÌ>Ê-V>À UÊ "iÊÕ`Ài`ÊÌÜiÌÞi}ÌÊ >Ì>ÊiÀÌÊ-iw>ÃÌÃ UÊ iÊÌiÀ>Ì>Ê-ViViÊEÊ}iiÀ}Ê>À competitors / award winners UÊ iÊ-iw>ÃÌÃÊÊ-iiÃÊ «iÌÌÊvÀÊ>Ì] Ê -ViViÊEÊ/iV}Þ UÊ ÀÌÞÌÀiiÊ>Ü>À`ÃÊi>Ài`Ê>ÌÊ/iÝ>ÃÊÕÀÊV>ìÞÊv Science, including almost all best-of-show awards UÊ À>`Ê«ÀâiÊ>Ü>À`ÃÊÃÜii«ÃÊ>ÌÊiiiÌ>ÀÞÊ>` secondary regional science fairs UÊ >Ì>ÊV>ìVÊ7À`+ÕiÃÌÊV>«Ã« UÊ >Ì>Ê-«i}ÊiiÊVÌiìÀ UÊ Ê ÕÌÞÊVÊ/À>ÊV>«Ã« UÊ -iÛiÌÞvÕÀÊÃÌÕìÌÃÊiÀi`ÊÊ >ÀiiÀÊEÊ/iV}Þ Education programs advanced to national and international level competitions in their respective student associations. “Plano ISD has great schools because we have great teachers. Our teachers are innovative, creative and committed to making sure that Plano ISD students succeed. The Grants to Educators program helps foster that success. Our volunteers and donors love being a part of the Grant Patrol and being able to personally participate in helping to uphold Plano ISD’s tradition of academic excellence. The Plano ISD Education Foundation is proud to provide resources for innovative academic programs that ultimately strengthen teaching and learning district-wide.” - Rebecca Egelston Caso Plano ISD Education Foundation Board President UÊ *>Ê-ÊÃ«iiVÊ>`ÊìL>ÌiÊÃÌÕìÌÃÊÀ>i`Ê>} the top 35 Public Forum Debaters in the nation. UÊ -iÛiÌÞÌÀiiÊÃÌÕìÌÃÊi>Ài`Ê«ÃÌÃÊÊVÛiÌi` Texas All State Music groups, including band, choir and orchestra UÊ Ê >««i>ÊÝi`Ê ÀÊÃiiVÌi`ÊÌÊ«iÀvÀÊ>Ì national conference UÊ /iÊ>>ÃÊ-ÕiÀÊÕÃV>ÃÊ}Ê-VÊÕÃV> Theatre Awards “Best Musical” and “Best Scenic Design” honors UÊ `ìÊÃVÊi>VÌÊ«>ÞÊwÀÃÌÊ«>ViÊ>Ü>À` UÊ /ÜÊ }ÀiÃÃ>ÊÀÌÊ «iÌÌÊ>Ü>À`Ã UÊ -ÝÌÞÃÝÊ«iÀViÌÊvÊ}ÊÃVÊ>ÀÌÜÀÃÊÌ>ÌÊ>`Û>Vi` from regional to state VASE art competition were created by Plano ISD students. UÊ ÛiÊvÊ£ääÊ>ÀÌÜÀÃÊÃiiVÌi`ÊvÀÊ/iÝ>ÃÊ9ÕÌÊÀÌ Month Capitol Exhibit were created by Plano ISD students. UÊ 9Õ}Ê>ÃÌiÀÃÊÝLÌÊ>ÌÊÌiÊ>>ÃÊÕÃiÕÊvÊÀÌ first place awards sweep UÊ >Ì>Êº>ÀÊvÊÝViiVi»ÊÜ>À`ÃÊÜiÀiÊi>Ài` by four Plano ISD choral and orchestra groups. UÊ >Ãi`ÊÊÕLiÀÊvÊ`Û>Vi`Ê*>ViiÌÊiÝ>Ã taken, Plano ISD ranked first in the state in each of the AP fine arts programs. UÊ }ÌiiÊ*>Ê-ÊÃÌÕìÌÃÊÜÊ>Ü>À`ÃÊÊÌiÊ ÌÞÊv Plano Fire Prevention Poster Contest. UÊ 6>ÀÃÌÞÊ>ÌiÌVÊ>ViÛiiÌÃÊÜiÀiÊi>Ài`ÊÊ> sports, including a sixth-consecutive state championship in girls’ soccer; state competitors and award winners in swimming, team tennis, track and wrestling; advancing teams to regional semifinals in baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, softball, swimming; and district championships in several sports. Teammates from Plano West Senior High School captured their 2nd consecutive national championship at the annual Academic WorldQuest™ competition held in April, 2014 in Washington, D.C. The team competition tests high school students’ knowledge of international affairs, current events and foreign policy issues. Individual board member support for the school district and dedication to duty Board Appointments Each year board members are appointed to serve on various committees as liaisons to specific groups. In 2013-14, trustees served as follows: Missy Bender - City of Plano, Junior League of Collin County, NSBA Federal Relations Network, Plano ISD Education Foundation; Mike Friedman - City of Dallas, Realtor Groups; Marilyn Hinton - City of Parker, Head Start Advisory Committee; Nancy Humphrey - Audit Committee (chair), City of Richardson, Parent Teacher Association; Carrolyn Moebius - Audit Committee, City of Murphy, TASB Delegate; Tammy Richards - Audit Committee, Chamber of Commerce, City of Plano, TASB Alternate Delegate; David Stolle - City of Plano, Downtown TIF Board, Home Owners’ Association. District & School Events Each Plano ISD board member attends and participates in many district and campus functions. Some examples include: UÊ >VÌÃVÊÛÃÌÃ UÊ -VÊ«iÊÕÃiÃ UÊ Õ`}Ê>`Ê«À}À>Êì`V>ÌÃ UÊ i}iÊ}ÌÃ UÊ >ÀiiÀÊ`>ÞÃ Katherine Xiu, 2014 Plano Senior High School Valedictorian, was honored in October as one of nine Plano ISD senior high school students to achieve semifinalist standing in the 2013 Siemens Competition in Math, Science and Technology, the nation’s premier research competition for high school students. 31 UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ ÕÌVÕÌÕÀ>ÊViiLÀ>ÌÃ >ÀÌÊÕÌiÀÊ}]ÊÀ°ÊÌÀLÕÌi `ÕV>ÌÊÕ`>ÌÊvÕ`À>Ã}ÊiÛiÌÃ «ÞiiÊÃiÀÛViÊ>Ü>À`ÃÊL>µÕiÌ /i>ViÀÊvÊÌiÊ9i>ÀÊ>> -«ÀÌÃÊiÛiÌÃ ÀÃÊÀiVi«ÌÃ *>ÞÃÊ>`ÊVViÀÌÃ Ü>À`ÃÊL>µÕiÌÃ */ÊiiÌ}Ã i>ìÀÃ«Ê*>ÊiiÌ}Ã ÃÌÀVÌÊ>`ÊÃVÊvÕ`À>Ã}ÊiÛiÌÃ À>`Õ>ÌÃ management, this board was able to delay calling a bond election in the year 2012, keeping its promise to the community through the passage of the Tax Ratification Election in 2013. The 2008 bond program supported $490 million in facilities and technology initiatives. This includes: UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ UÊ 32 Approximately 1,300 graduates represented the 2014 class of Plano Senior High School. Board Vice President David Stolle proudly presented many of approximately 3,900 diplomas given at the three senior high school graduations. Legislative Priorities This Plano ISD Board of Trustees has adopted as a district initiative the development of legislative priorities for a more balanced and reinvigorated state/local partnership. Joining with other partners in public education, trustees committed support toward pursuing legislative action for the sake of school children, employees and the greater Plano ISD community. This pledge of support was affirmed at a school board meeting with the passing of a legislative resolution by the board. This board’s work with legislators both locally and at the State Capitol in Austin during the 2013 legislative session focused on the following top priorities: restoring funding, changes to end-of-course exam requirements, paths to graduation, opposing vouchers and the school start date. Support for bond elections, facility planning, and other district improvement plans The Plano ISD taxpayers have historically supported facility and technology bond elections. The current school board has done an excellent job of carrying out the 2008 bond program. Through exceptional fiscal Õ`}ÊvÊÃÝÊiÜÊv>VÌiÃ >`Ê>VµÕÃÌÃ ÓäÞi>ÀÊÃVÊÀiÛ>ÌÃÊ>ÌÊ£äÊiiiÌ>ÀÞÊÃVÃ ``ÌÃÊ>`Ê`wV>ÌÃÊ>ÌÊÃiÛiÊV>«ÕÃiÃ ÃÌÀÕVÌ>ÊV>«Ì>Ê«ÀÛiiÌÃÊvÀÊÃViVi]ÊV>ÀiiÀ education, libraries and fine arts >«Ì>Ê«ÀÛiiÌÊ«ÀiVÌÃÊÊi}ÌÊ>À areas including parking lots, safety, food services, transportation, energy efficiency, water/irrigation upgrades, athletics and other district-wide capital improvements -ÞÃÌiÃÊV«>ViÊvÀÊv>VÌiÃÊÌÊÀi«>ViÊÀvÃ] flooring, HVAC units, fire alarms and more ÕÀÀVÕÕÊ>`ÊÌiV}ÞÊ«À}À>Ê«ÀÛiiÌÃÊ all areas ``Ì>Ê«ÀiVÌÃÊÌiÊÃVÊL>À`ÊÜ>ÃÊ>LiÊÌÊvÕ` with this bond program included the purchase of a building for the Plano ISD Academy High School, expansion of Plano East Senior High School to house the new IB World School for grades 9-12 and numerous additions, renovations and security measures across the school district. Strategic planning Community Survey As a research tool and as part of the district’s strategic plan revision of 2013, the board worked with Dr. Robert M. Stein, political science professor at Rice University in Houston Texas, to conduct a community-wide survey. The results of the study were based on 500 telephone interviews that were completed with parents and residents in the Plano Independent School District. Interviews were conducted by the University of Houston Center for Public Policy Survey Research Center during November and December of 2012. The survey sample included two populations: a district-provided sample of households with children currently enrolled in Plano ISD schools and another random sample of households in the district. Using these two samples, 75% of the survey respondents had children currently enrolled in a Plano ISD school. The report focused on respondents’ overall evaluation of the district’s performance, evaluations of specific functions (e.g., staff, administrators and physical plant), evaluations of specific academic programs (e.g., advanced placement, special needs and dual credit). Respondents were also asked about the value of Plano schools to the local economy and property values. The overall rating of the district was positive, with 91% responding that the district was “excellent” or “good.” Tax Ratification Election Speaker’s Bureau On November 5, 2013, Plano ISD held a Tax Ratification Election (TRE) that allowed voters to adjust the tax rates that fund their schools. The proposed increase allowed the school board to raise the current maintenance and «iÀ>ÌÃÊE"®ÊÌ>ÝÊÀ>ÌipÜVÊvÕ`ÃÊÃ>>ÀiÃ]ÊÕÌÌiÃÊ and day-to-day operations that directly support campuses —by 13 cents. This amount was offset by a decrease in the debt service tax rate of 5 cents, for a net tax rate increase of 8 cents. With this election, Plano ISD received a clear message from the school community reflecting its desire and expectations for educational programs and experiences for students. Throughout the fall of 2013, Plano ISD’s school board and superintendent became a speaker’s bureau to inform the public about this first-ever TRE, with continued academic excellence and recruitment and retention of the best faculty and staff as their guiding objectives. Community and Student Engagement Accountability System (CSEAS) With the passage of HB5 by the Texas Legislature, the accountability system in place for the last 20 years and based primarily upon state standardized tests has changed to an accountability rating system measuring several program areas that have meaning and relevance to school communities. The Plano ISD Board of Trustees was asked to lead this initiative for the Region 10 education service area. The process by which Plano ISD met the HB5 requirements included the formation of a CSEAS district committee and sub-committee chairs for each of these factor areas: fine arts, wellness and physical education, community and parental involvement, 21st Century workforce development program, second language acquisition program, digital learning environment, dropout prevention strategies, educational programs for gifted and talented students and record of district and campus compliance with statutory reporting and policy requirements. The work of the subcommittees was submitted to the school board in January 2014. Schools implemented the new system during the spring 2014 semester. Schools will submit results of their factor area evaluations and Plano ISD’s assessment and accountability department will determine each school’s overall rating based upon the cumulative total of factor area evaluations. Ratings for each school and the district are scheduled to be submitted to the Texas Education Agency on August 8, 2014. Superintendent’s Priority Fund Through the sanction of the Plano ISD Board of Trustees, the Plano ISD Education Foundation has earmarked significant dollars in a Superintendent’s Priority Fund for unbudgeted items. The school board has entrusted Superintendent Richard Matkin to make decisions based upon his exemplary direct support for educators and students while managing the overall scope of his work with finesse. Employee Compensation Plan Due in large part to the passage of a first-ever Tax Ratification Election by district taxpayers in the fall of 2013, the Plano ISD Board of Trustees and superintendent were able to devote significant dollars to the district’s core belief of “attracting, training and retaining a highly qualified staff that is reflective of our student population.” At the direction of the school board, the superintendent’s leadership team began working on a budget for the 2014-15 school year to include—for the first time in several years—a significant salary increase for all employees, increases in starting salaries and other financial benefits for the district’s cadre of more than 6,500 employees. Culminating several months of budget work sessions, trustees adopted the 2014-15 Employee Compensation Plan in June 2014. In addition to a 3.5% general pay increase (GPI) approved by the Plano ISD Board of Trustees for all employees, the board also desired to recognize employee service through a onetime, lump sum payment of $500. The lump sum payment will be paid, via a regular payroll check, in December 2014. Starting salaries for newly hired teachers were also adopted as part of the plan. Overall Campus Evaluation Rating Campus Evaluation Rating From Factor Ratings Exemplary All Factors are Acceptable/Met or Higher + 3/8 Tactors Exemplary Recognized All Factors are Acceptable/Met or Higher + 3/8 Factors Recognized or Higher Acceptable 8/9 Factors are Acceptable/Met or Higher Unacceptable Two or More Factors Not Acceptable/Not Met Thirty school districts in Region 10 have adopted this Plano ISD model for Community and Student Engagement Accountability System (CSEAS). 33 Commitment to a Code of Ethics Richard Matkin Superintendent of Schools Richard Matkin was named superintendent of schools during the spring of 2012 by the Plano ISD Board of Trustees. Mr. Matkin joined the Plano ISD family of employees in 2001 as the associate superintendent for business services, managing a budget of approximately half a billion dollars. The experiences that prepared him for the rigors of the district, which serves 55,000 students and feels the full impact of a complicated public school finance system, included similar roles in Duncanville, White Settlement, Carrollton-Farmers Branch, Desoto and Red Oak ISDs. Mr. Matkin was a classroom teacher for eight years before choosing an administrative path. A career educator, he also has private industry experience as a controller and CPA where he honed his business acumen and financial creativity. Under his leadership, Plano ISD has annually earned the prestigious Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada, and the district has earned the highest rating of “Superior Achievement” in the state’s Schools FIRST (Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas) program. His thirty-six years of experience have yielded him the reputation as a school finance authority and relationships with young professionals as a mentor. Plano ISD voters have shown their confidence in Mr. Matkin’s financial stewardship over the past decade by approving all bond referendums placed on the ballot for consideration. Mr. Matkin is a graduate of Austin College with both bachelor of arts and master of arts degrees. He is a Certified Public Accountant and a certified teacher of math, history, health and physical education. In October 2013, he was honored with the Distinguished Alumni Award by Austin College. “I compliment our trustees for abiding by a collective Code of Ethics, not only in accordance with BBB Legal and BBF Local, but with a true sense of boardsmanship. There is mutual respect and accountability among trustees in times of agreement or in times of conflict. Their commitment to quality leadership also manifested in the trustees self-authoring a set of Board Operating Procedures that continues to be updated as their roles evolve.” Superintendent Richard Matkin BOARD MEMBER ETHICS As a member of the Board of Trustees of the Plano Independent School District, I am committed to serving the children and citizens of this District. I will strive to provide a high quality public education that meets the needs of our District and the community as a whole, and, to that end, I shall adhere to the following ethical standards: RESPONSIBILITY 1. I acknowledge the Board’s role as planning, goal setting, policymaking, communication, and evaluation and the Superintendent’s role of leading, implementing, and managing. 2. I will consistently uphold all applicable laws, rules, policies, and governance procedures. 3. I will act as an advocate for the schools and the children of our District. 4. I will keep myself focused on the best interests of students. 5. I will function only as a member of a “body corporate” which means that I will take action only as a member of a group. Board members may not act privately on behalf of the Board and will avoid conflicts of interest. 6. I will tell the truth. 7. I will seek continuing education that will enhance my ability to fulfill my duties effectively. 8. I will work to ensure prudent and accountable use of District resources. 9. I will diligently prepare for and attend Board meetings and District functions. Evidence of ethical practices adhered to in dealing with the professional staff both collectively and individually Every decision the Plano ISD Board of Trustees makes is weighed against two things: the district’s goals and the board’s code of ethics. Additionally, the trustees perform with the highest integrity as a board and as individuals. The board strongly believes that all staff must be treated fairly and consistently. Particular hallmarks of this board are their willingness to make tough decisions, take decisive actions and deliver on their promises. Leadership in a district that employs nearly 7,000 and serves close to 55,000 students comes with a definite set of challenges, some anticipated and some that are impossible to predict. The ups and downs of school districts are very open to public scrutiny, and tough situations are usually emotionally charged on both sides. During these times of difficulty and consternation, this board has shown through its actions and its ability to remain committed that its members are capable of making ethical, fair and consistent decisions, especially in regard to the district’s professional staff. When state funding was drastically cut in 2011, after careful and thoughtful deliberations, the board made C O O P E R AT I O N 10. I will work cooperatively with other Board members, the Superintendent, and staff, striving for teamwork. 11. I will learn and practice the art of consensus. 12. I will accept responsibility for all Board decisions, regardless of how I voted. 13. I will maintain confidentiality COMMUNITY INTERACTION 14. I will be courteous and respectful to all participants (Board colleagues, staff, audience, and speakers). 15. I will support and protect the civil and human rights of all members of the school community. 16. I will be responsive to the community by seeking its involvement in District affairs and by communicating its priorities and concerns. 17. I will be accountable to the public by representing District policies, programs, priorities, and progress accurately. OBJECTIVITY 18. I will be fair, just, and impartial in all my decisions and actions. 19. I will base my decisions on the available facts and independent judgment, and refuse to surrender that judgment to individuals or special interest groups or to emotions. 20. I will not avoid unpopular decisions for political reasons, if I feel that the decision is in the best interests of the students’ education. 21. I will keep an open mind so that I can accept and evaluate new concepts. the hard decision to implement a reduction in force and increase class sizes. They included a promise that when financial times were better, resources would be restored to the classroom. After the successful passing of a Tax Ratification Election in 2013, the board kept their promise with the passing of the 2014-2015 school budget. In 2012, the board was faced with a different type of challenge when they learned that an elementary school teacher was being investigated for inappropriate behavior with a student. The public disquiet, especially in the school’s community, was immediate and strong. At first, the district’s inability to comment because of the ongoing investigation frustrated and angered parents, who felt the district was hiding information critical to their children’s safety. When appropriate, the district acted with as much transparency as possible within legal and investigative limits. Decisive actions included the installation of more than twice the number of cameras, an independent audit of hiring procedures and the hiring of a full-time assistant principal for the campus. In addition, all doors were equipped with windows (which could be covered in times of lock down), making classrooms visible to those in hallways. 37 These actions were made transparent to parents and the community with additional parent meetings. Also, the board took an action which was unprecedented at the time: a question and answer document about the incident and the district’s subsequent actions was posted on the school and district website. To this day, the FAQ and independent auditor’s report are on the school’s homepage. More recently, in 2013 when an employee exploited the trust of the district and community by colluding with a vendor to defraud the district, the board acted swiftly and decisively to terminate the employee. The board was unafraid to pursue an in-depth investigation, using an external forensic auditor and subsequently request federal intervention to attain the strictest enforcement of the law. The board and administration felt it was important to communicate openly with the community, take actions to address the situation and reinforce preventative measures. At the board’s direction, the administration implemented control measures to evenly distribute fiscal oversight and create a balanced segregation of duties. The district also added an additional internal auditor and launched a fraud hotline to make it easier for employees to report suspicious activity. 38 This level of action and transparency is only possible when the board is confident that its commitment to its code of ethics is reflected in its work as a corporate body. This commitment to ethics allows the board’s decisions and actions to be held up to public scrutiny. Evidence of ethical considerations in dealing with professional contracts, grievances and dismissal procedures The board strictly adheres to established policies and procedures when dealing with contracts, airing of grievances and conflicts. In accordance with conflict of interest disclosure requirements passed by the 79th Texas Legislature in HB 914 (which became effective January 1, 2006), Local Government Code, Chapter 176, Local Government Officer Conflicts Disclosure Statements for all school district trustees and the superintendent are posted on the district’s website. When dealing with professional staff or any matter before the board, board members recuse themselves as soon as the possibility of any conflict of interest arises. “The Plano ISD Board of Trustees take seriously its fiduciary obligation to its students, parents, and taxpayers to follow the law and thoughtfully and intentionally respond to the myriad of legal issues it faces annually. I find the Board to be especially thorough in its understanding and analysis of legal issues, with a view towards always searching for the course of action that offers the best outcome for the District and its constituents.“ - ,V>À`ÊLiÀ>ÌÞ]ÊÀiVÌÀÊEÊ*>ÀÌiÀ]ÊLiÀ>ÌÞ]Ê,iìÀ] ÊÞ`ÊEÊ«]Ê*° ° U.S. Attorney John M. Bales addresses media at press conference. Plano ISD worked with the Plano Police Department, U.S. Attorney’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Department of Education following the discovery that an employee had colluded with an outside vendor to commit fraud. Demonstrations of commitment on the part of each board member to the code of ethics adopted by the board of directors of the National School Boards Association, or a code of ethics developed and adopted by the board itself UÊ ºiiÌ}Ã»Ê`VÕiÌÃÊÜÊÌiÊL>À`Ê>>}iÃ meetings using its documented best practices. In addition to following the code of ethics set forth by Board Policy BBF (Local), the Plano ISD Board of Trustees has self-authored a Board of Trustees Operating Protocol. The document addresses procedures regarding topics that are most critical to board service. Ê UÊ >À`ÊiLiÀÃ½ÊVViÀÃÊ>LÕÌÊÌi superintendent’s professional performance UÊ º>À`ÊìÛi«iÌ»Ê>``ÀiÃÃiÃÊÜÊÌiÊL>À` manages its development and advocacy priorities including new member orientation, transition of new leadership, annual self-evaluation, legislative initiatives, annual team building, training requirements, travel reimbursements, concerns about other members and censure. UÊ º ÕV>ÌÃ»ÊiÝ«>ÃÊÜÊÌiÊL>À`Ê>>}iÃ communication, including communication with the administrative staff (about both agenda and nonagenda items), other members of the board, the media, the community or governmental and legislative agencies, as well as contact with campuses, responses to community or employee complaints, email protocol and speaking engagements. UÊ º*iÀÃi»Ê>`ÃÌiÀÃÊÜÊÌiÊL>À`Ê>ìÃÊÃÃÕiÃ concerning district personnel. Including: Ê UÊ Û>Õ>ÌÊvÊÌiÊÃÕ«iÀÌiìÌÊvÕÊVÞVi®Ê Ê UÊ À}ÊvÊ«iÀÃiÊÌiÀÊÌ>ÊÌiÊÃÕ«iÀÌiìÌÊ Ê UÊ >À`Êi>À}ÃÊvÊ}ÀiÛ>ViÃÊ Ê UÊ >À`ÊiLiÀÃ½ÊVViÀÃÊ>LÕÌÊÌiÊ«iÀvÀ>ViÃ of employees other than the superintendent Ê UÊ À}ÊvÊÌiÊÃÕ«iÀÌiìÌ UÊ º*>}»ÊiÝ«>ÃÊÜÊÌiÊL>À`Ê>>}iÃ the governance and oversight task of planning, including: establishment of district vision, mission and annual goals; approval of annual goals and district performance objectives; review of district improvement plans, instructionally related programs and programs other than instructional programs; district’s progress toward accomplishment of goals; and the development and adoption of the district budget. UÊ º*VÞ»ÊìÌ>ÃÊÜÊÌiÊL>À`Ê>>}iÃÊ«VÞ] including review of district policies, development of district policies and traditions of the board. 39 Provision of financial support for the school system David Stolle Place 5 David Stolle was elected in 2011 to serve his first term on the school board. He was elected by fellow trustees to serve as board vice president for the 2013-14 school year. Since graduating law school in 2001, Mr. Stolle has practiced at Jackson Walker L.L.P., where he is now a partner with a national practice focused on commercial and real estate finance. Prior to attending law school, Mr. Stolle spent four years teaching high school English in Palestine, Texas, and maintains a lifetime teacher's certificate with the State of Texas. Mr. Stolle is a product of Plano schools, having attended Davis Elementary through fifth grade before his family moved to East Texas. Mr. Stolle has earned a bachelor's degree in English from Texas A&M University, a master's degree in English from the University of Texas at Tyler and a law degree from St. Mary’s University School of Law. Mr. Stolle has served as co-chair of the Jackson Walker L.L.P. United Way campaign and has spent a number of years coaching youth sports. He is a fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation. He and his wife Cristy have been members of the PTAs at Jackson Elementary School, Frankford Middle School, Shepton High School and Plano West Senior High School. The 2012-13 school year marks the eleventh consecutive, and final, year the Stolles will have a child at Jackson Elementary School. During his final two years of law school, Mr. Stolle served first as a staff writer and subsequently as the executive editor of the St. Mary's Law Journal. He was named by Thomson Reuters in 2010 as a "Rising Star" in Texas attorneys who are either 40 years old and under or who have been practicing law for ten or fewer years. Plano ISD residents since 2001, the Stolles have three children attending Plano schools. “I feel a deep sense of commitment to study, understand, question and offer comments during the budget process and in regard to our spending as a district. While the district is in a solid financial position, we, as trustees, have a duty as stewards of taxpayer dollars to remain vigilant at every step. Navigating an evolving and troubled school finance system can be difficult, but I am proud of our fiscal plan and proud to say we are meeting the needs and expectations of the school community in this regard.” David Stolle, Vice President Statement showing total taxable base of district; applied tax rate; average expenditure per child in the district; adequacy of facilities, educational programs and employee salaries and benefits; and efforts being made to finance schools Instructional % of Budget expenditure ratio PLANO STATE 70.5% 64.1% TOTAL TAXABLE BASE OF DISTRICT $32,978,756,443 APPLIED TAX RATE $1.453/$100 valuation Avg Expenditure per Student $7,074 Adequacy of Facilities The board established the Plano ISD Facilities and Technology Task Force to consider major bond initiatives that resulted in bond elections every four years from 1996 to 2008. Plano ISD voters passed these bond elections with an overwhelming majority in favor of revitalized schools in neighborhoods while implementing and utilizing the latest technology. The school board continues to uphold the desire of the community as it fulfills the bond programs. The board and the district are committed to providing state-of-the-art facilities and leading edge technology resources for all students. Schedules for most of these initiatives are contingent upon bond sales. McMillen High School family members received advice from Assistant Principal Pam Clark during the school’s inaugural open house in August, 2011. Built with 2008 bond program funds, McMillen features instructional technology and architectural design for optimal teaching and learning. 43 Facility and Technology Bond Initiatives Promised Fulfilled New Schools/Facilities Schell Elementary School Employee Child Care Center Land Acquisition - Future School Sites Isaacs Early Childhood Center Barron Elementary School Conversion New Elementary School Otto Middle School McMillen High School Completed Completed Completed Completed Completed Timing to be determined Completed Completed Major School Renovations Mendenhall Elementary School Jackson Elementary School Weatherford Elementary School Memorial Elementary School Brinker Elementary School Daffron Elementary School Hedgcoxe Elementary School Bethany Elementary School Mitchell Elementary School Rasor Elementary School Completed Completed Completed Completed Under Construction - Complete Fall 2014 Under Construction - Complete Fall 2014 In Planning/Design - Complete Fall 2015 In Planning/Design - Complete Fall 2015 Completed Completed Additions and Modifications Plano East Senior High School - Science, Kitchen/Dining Vines High School - Fine Arts and Science Plano West Senior High School - Kitchen/Dining Haggard Middle School - Fine Arts Plano Senior High School - Fine Arts Forman Elementary School - Classroom Addition ÕÊ iÌiÀÊÊ >ÃÃÀÃ]ÊÌViÊEÊ-iÀÛ}ÊiÊ Completed Completed Completed Completed Completed Completed «iÌi` Capital Improvements - Instructional Science Classroom Needs Career Education Libraries Fine Arts PE Lockers Completed Completed Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Capital Improvements - Physical Bird Center Parking Project Safety and Security `ÊEÊ ÕÌÀÌ>Ê-iÀÛViÃÊ Transportation - Buses Energy Efficient Lighting Water Conservation/Irrigation Upgrades Athletic Capital Improvements Districtwide Capital Projects Completed Ongoing "}} Completed Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing 44 Systems and Compliance Districtwide Facility Upgrades/Replacements for Security Systems, Roofs, Flooring, HVAC, Energy Management, Fire Alarms, Fire Lane Parking Ongoing Curriculum and Technology Replacement Program Digital Visual Presenters * Ê"«iÀ>Ì}ÊEÊ*À`ÕVÌÛÌÞÊ-ÞÃÌiÃÊ1«}À>ìÃÊ Digital Cameras Web Based Enterprise Applications Art (K-5) >ÀiiÀÊEÊ/iV}ÞÊ`ÕV>ÌÊÈ£Ó®Ê Elementary (K-5) Foreign Language (6-12) i>ÌÊEÊ*Ê£Ó®Ê Learning Media Services (K-12) Mathematics (6-12) Science (6-12) Special Education (K-12) Speech (9-12) Theatre Arts (6-12) Communications `ÊEÊ ÕÌÀÌ>Ê-iÀÛViÃÊ Wireless Infrastructure Upgrade Transportation Ongoing Completed "}} Completed Ongoing Completed «iÌi` Completed Completed Ê*À}ÀiÃÃ In Progress Completed Completed Ongoing Completed Completed Completed «iÌi` Completed In Progress Additional Projects Funded With 2008 Bond Program Plano ISD Academy High School Hunt Elementary School Classroom Addition (In progress) Plano East Senior High School: IB World School at Plano East Williams High School Renovations Williams High School: Plano ISD Health Sciences Academy Saigling Elementary School Renovations Clark High School Addition Plano West Senior High School Expansion Transportation Building Renovation Security Vestibules (In progress) 45 Award recipients pictured with Superintendent of Schools Richard Matkin and School Board President Nancy Humphrey. Plano ISD hosts an annual Retirement and Service Awards event recognizing retirees and employees with 15 or more years of service. The event also honors recipients of the Superintendent Service Award, support staff members who are noneducators and are nominated by their colleagues for going above and beyond the call of duty. 46 Employee Salaries and Benefits Opportunities include: The Plano ISD Board of Trustees strives to make Plano ISD’s compensation and benefits plan competitive with surrounding districts while maintaining efficient use of funds. Trustees adopted the 2014-2015 employee compensation plan, which included a salary increase of 3.5% for all employees and other financial benefits for the district’s more than 6,500 employees. UÊ "ÃÌiÊ«ÀviÃÃ>ÊìÛi«iÌÊ UÊ «ÀiiÃÛiÊi>ÌÊVÛiÀ>}iÊÜÌÊ`ÃÌÀVÌ contribution UÊ «ÞiiÊ>ÃÃÃÌ>ViÊ«À}À>Ê UÊ /i>ViÀ`ÀÛiÊVÕÀÀVÕ>ÊìÛi«iÌÊ UÊ Êi`ÕV>ÌÊvÕ`>ÌÊÜVÊÀ>ÃiÃÊvÕ`ÃÊvÀ teacher incentive grants and recognition activities UÊ /i>ViÀÊiÌÀÊ«À}À>ÊvÀÊwÀÃÌÞi>ÀÊÌi>ViÀÃ UÊ -Ì«i`ÃÊvÀÊViÀÌwi`ÊL}Õ>ÊÌi>ViÀÃÊÜÊÌi>V bilingual classes UÊ «ÞiiÊV`V>ÀiÊ«À}À>ÊvÀÊÌi>ViÀÃ UÊ «ÞiiÊÀiV}ÌÊiÛiÌÃ UÊ iÝLiÊÃ«i`}Ê>VVÕÌÃ Plano ISD Pay Raise History 2010-11 2011-12 Surrounding Area Average 1.8 Plano 2.5 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 0.0 2.0 3.0 TBD 0.0 3.0 1.0 3.5 The school board believes in investing in employees by ensuring the district provides a great opportunity for educators to grow and develop professionally, a supportive administrative team and generous benefits. Trustees Marilyn Hinton and Missy Bender and Superintendent of Schools Richard Matkin greet Secondary Teacher of the Year Karen Stanton onstage at the 2014 Teacher of the Year Gala. This annual gala is a district and community collaboration attended by more than 1,000 educators and community members to honor and celebrate Plano ISD’s outstanding teachers. At this annual event, the Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year are announced. Efforts to Finance Schools Following a $59 million funding reduction over a two-year period in 2011, the 2013 Texas legislature returned less than 30% of reduced funds, compared to the state average of 77%. Deficit spending in 2012-13 was planned pending legislative action, but due to the lack of restorative funding, Plano ISD sought a solution to balance the budget including a $20 million deficit. Endeavoring to continue the exceptional educational programs expected by their community, Plano ISD trustees put a Tax Ratification Election before voters who sent an affirmation of their desire for exceptional educational programs and experiences. In addition to public funding, Plano ISD benefits from the mission and support of the Plano ISD Education Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Foundation’s mission is helping all students in Plano public schools achieve their full potential by providing financial support to educators and academic programs. The Foundation generates private support for priority projects identified by the district for which tax dollars are not available. Launched this year, the Academy Programs of Plano, which feature the Plano ISD Health Sciences Academy, the IB World School at Plano East Senior High and Plano ISD Academy High School, are excellent examples of how the Plano ISD Education Foundation bolsters the mission of the district. In light of challenges in Texas public school funding, Plano ISD understands the need to be progressive and innovative in its financial management, while continuing to serve as good stewards of taxpayer dollars. The board is committed to having the Academy Programs of Plano thrive as a result of corporate and community giving through the Plano ISD Education Foundation. To date, the Education Foundation has raised more than $6 million for the Academy Programs of Plano from the following corporate partners: Platinum Level $1,000,000 to $5,000,000+ Texas Instruments Gold Level $500,000+ Southwest Airlines Silver Level $300,000+ Baylor Regional Medical Center at Plano and The Heart Hospital Baylor Plano ISD Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Plano Bronze Level $100,000+ Plano Rotary Club Contributors $50,000+ Cisco Systems DCS Global Systems Methodist Richardson Medical Center Donor $20,000+ Bank of America At the May 20, 2014, School Board Meeting, Southwest Airlines was recognized as the Academy Programs of Plano’s first “Gold Corporate Partner” whose generous $610,000 financial contribution will help to support innovative learning opportunities. Capital One Bank V>>Ê"ÊEÊ>Ã Donor $10,000+ EÊ/iV}Þ 47 Evidence of efficient business management practices Plano ISD awarded for 31 years of financial reporting excellence Plano ISD reduces debt service tax rate, earns highest bond rating from financial agencies At their June 2014 meeting, the Plano ISD Board of Trustees recognized the financial services team for capturing, for the 31st consecutive year, the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government and Financial Officers Association of the United States and Canada. In October 2013, Plano ISD received bids to refund a portion of its outstanding bonds issued in 2004. The L`ÃÊÜiÀiÊÀ>Ìi`Ê>>ÉÊLÞÊ`Þ½ÃÊ>`Ê-Ì>`>À`ÊEÊ Poor’s Rating Agencies by virtue of the State’s Permanent School Fund Guarantee Program. In addition, Moody’s >`Ê-Ì>`>À`ÊEÊ*À½ÃÊ>vwÀi`ÊÌiÊ`ÃÌÀVÌ½ÃÊÃÌ>`>iÊ ratings of Aaa and AA+, respectively, shortly before the bid date. The stand-alone ratings are the highest rating either rating agency currently assigns to Texas school districts. 48 The primary purpose of the refunding was to adjust the debt payments due within the 2014-18 timeframe to allow for a reduction of 5.04 cents in the district’s 201314 debt service tax rate. Increases in payments in 2016, 2017, 2018 as a result of the refunding will be offset by scheduled decreases in other existing debt payments, thus having the end effect of leveling the debt service tax rate through 2018. Because of the historically low interest rates at which the bonds were sold, the district will also realize a cumulative decrease of $307,135 in total principal and interest payments on the new bonds compared to what would have been paid on the bonds which were refunded. When the time value of money is factored in, the district will realize a net present value savings of $974,115 on the transaction. “We are pleased we were able to restructure our short-term debt payments to reduce our debt service tax rate by five cents. As an added bonus to this planning, we also reduced the total payments for our taxpayers.” – Steve Fortenberry, Associate Superintendent for Business and Facilities Services and CFO PISD earns 10th consecutive superior financial rating through state’s Schools FIRST program In 2013, for the 10th consecutive year, Plano ISD earned a “Superior Achievement” rating through the Schools FIRST (Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas). The district was graded on several financial accountability indicators. Trends indicating financial support for educational programs Each campus receives equitable allocations from the district to fund their local budgets according to their students’ needs. However, in today’s learning environments, it is evident that multiple sources of funding are required to sustain and increase the excellent and comprehensive programming available pre-K through 12. The Plano ISD Board of Trustees has emphasized and encouraged the continual cultivation of partnerships to bring private and corporate funding for prioritized academic programs. A testament to this effort is the Plano ISD Education Foundation, which had established a 2013-14 goal of approximately $1 million. Due to the aggressive and resounding support of private and corporate donors, the Foundation instead landed their annual goal of raising $2.3 million to support academic initiatives as prioritized by the district; thereby indicating supportive trends in the Plano ISD school community of patrons and corporate citizens. Participation in workshops and other performance improvement programs Marilyn HInton Place 6 Ms. Hinton was elected to serve her second term on the school board in May 2013. During the prior two school years she served as board secretary. She is a former teacher in Plano ISD's Head Start program. In addition to teaching, Ms. Hinton has professional experience in serving as a youth director for a nonprofit agency for homeless and transitional families, as a visiting scholar teaching early childhood education at Brookhaven College and as a counselor and adjunct professor at Richland College. Ms. Hinton earned a bachelor’s degree in speech and drama at Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee, and a master's degree in education at Howard University in Washington, D.C. Ms. Hinton currently mentors several students throughout the school district and is a member of the Meadows Elementary School PTA. She is a member of the Plano Symphony Orchestra Virtuoso Society, is a graduate of Leadership Plano Class 27, volunteers with the Children’s Advocacy Center (Kids Count) and teaches Sunday school. She also serves on the local Board of Directors of The Samaritan Inn (Collin County's homeless shelter). Ms. Hinton is also on the national Board of Directors for Character Education Partnerships located in Washington, DC. Plano Community Forum made her a recipient of the 2012 Women of Excellence Award last October. She has been married to her husband, Jim, a family practice physician, for more than thirty years and they have resided in the Plano area since 1994. Their two daughters graduated from Plano West Senior High School. “As trustees, we have fully engaged with the following organizations to avail ourselves of training in areas of interest or in those identified for growth. In addition to our regular schedule of training at conferences, we also seek the opportunity to attend training sessions that help to equip us with the skills and knowledge to best assess our district programs and any areas needing improvement. I have pursued, along with my fellow trustees, training and information regarding character traits to be taught in our classrooms using innovative methods and we are seeing our efforts bearing fruit. We jointly presented on the topic of Character Education at the National School Board Association in April 2013.” Marilyn Hinton Pictured with Speaker of the House Joe Straus and his assistant are (clockwise from top right) Plano ISD Trustees Missy Bender, Nancy Humphrey, David Stolle, Tammy Richards and Superintendent of Schools Richard Matkin. Participating in “Collin County Days” in March 2013 during the 83rd Legislative Session, Plano ISD trustees met with local legislators at the state capitol to share Plano ISD’s priorities regarding school funding, end-of-course exams, paths to graduation, vouchers and the school year start date. Association membership and participation The board believes in developing students into lifelong learners, and trustees model that behavior by being lifelong learners themselves. Over the last three years, the board participated in nearly five times more than the amount of training hours required. In addition, two current board members, Missy Bender and Carrolyn Moebius, have earned the Master Trustee designation. committees on behalf of Plano ISD and all Texas school districts and represented the district as a member of the Federal Relations Network in Washington, D.C. UÊ/ÀÕ}ÕÌÊiÀÊV>ÀiiÀ]Ê/>ÞÊ,V>À`ÃÊ>ÃÊÜÀi` with a number of local, state and national educational organizations, including the Texas Education Agency, Participation at local, state and national conventions and programs is a high priority for the board. Plano ISD has been well represented at NSBA, TASB, CRSS and NTRC conferences. Also, trustees attend legislative update sessions as well as meet with local and state representatives on a regular basis. Part of the board’s growth comes through participation in their associations. UÊ*ÀiÃìÌÊ >VÞÊÕ«ÀiÞÊÃÊ>ÊiLiÀÊvÊÌiÊÊ National School Boards Association, and as a member of Texas Association of School Boards, she serves on its Legislative Advisory Council. UÊ>ÀÞÊÌÊÃÊÊÌiÊ>Ì>Ê>À`ÊvÊÀiVÌÀÃÊvÀ Character Education Partnerships located in Washington, DC. Plano Community Forum made her a recipient of the 2012 Women of Excellence Award last October. UÊÃÃÞÊiìÀÊVvÕì`Ê/ÀÕÃÌiiÃÊvÀÊ/iÝ>ÃÊ>`Ê>Ã served on the TASB Legislative Advocacy Committee. She has testified to the House and Senate education Plano ISD trustees Nancy Humphrey, Tammy Richards, Mike Friedman and Marilyn Hinton presented with Plano ISD’s Executive Director for Student and Family Services Mark Allen on the topic, “Bringing Character Education from the Boardroom to the Classroom,” at the April 2013 NSBA conference. 51 the Texas State Board of Education, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the Texas Business Education Coalition, the Texas High School Project, the Texas Workforce Commission, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the National Science Teachers Association. Encouragement of professional staff to participate in activities designed to improve performance The district conducts learning activities for staff throughout the year. Nationally recognized experts with critical messages, such as Eric Jensen and Marcia Tate, on brainbased instruction and Patrick Briggs on connecting and motivating students from all backgrounds, challenge staff to integrate current research into their practice. Following are topics for professional development offered by Plano ISD. UÊ ÕÌÕÀ>Ê «iÌiVÞÊq Attended by all employees to improve relationships with students, parents, the community and colleagues. UÊiÌÀÊ*À}À>Êq All new teachers are paired with a mentor teacher at their campus. 52 UÊ-Ê iÀÌwV>ÌÊq Elementary teachers are completing requirements for state English as a Second Language (ESL) supplemental certification. UÊvÌi`Ê>`Ê/>iÌi`Êq Experience for teachers to complement existing curriculum training. Ê -ÕiÀÊi>À}Êq Optional multi-day professional development opportunity attended by approximately 1,600 elementary faculty and staff in 2013. UÊ ÕÀÀVÕÕÊiÃ}Ê*ÀiVÌÃÊq Opportunity for secondary teachers to perfect their instructional design skills. UÊ/i>Êi>ìÀÊV>ìÞÊq Approximately 100 team leaders, department chairs and future leaders from each campus attend this annual weeklong training. Since the Foundation’s inception, more than $795,000 has been awarded to Plano ISD teachers through the Grants for Educators Program. In 2013-2014, the Foundation awarded $100,000 in monetary awards to fund 85 innovative instructional programs. Two of the projects were directly related to professional development. The Project-Based Learning (PBL) initiative is to begin integrating PBL concepts into the middle school. Appropriate training for four core subject teachers will be supplied by a faculty member from the Plano ISD Academy High School. Additional faculty will be trained in succeeding years. Through the Teach Like a Champion project, Weatherford Elementary sought to improve their instructional effectiveness by creating a professional learning community to study the book Teach Like A Champion. They started with new teachers and their mentors, as well as building administrators and the mentor liaison. The Plano ISD Board of Trustees, with the support of the Education Foundation, fosters an environment of continued professional development for themselves, the superintendent and the professional staff. Through participation and leadership roles in professional associations, boards and committees, board members and Plano ISD faculty develop their knowledge base, grow their professional and share their knowledge with their fellows. Specific workshops, conventions or other training programs board members have attended in recent years, including evidence of completion of required board member training Workshops, Conventions and Training 2011-2012 UÊ/-Ê-VÊ>À`Ê-«À}Ê7ÀÃ«]ÊEÊ iÀViÊÊ (05/2011) UÊ/iÝ>ÃÊ`ÕV>ÌÊ ìÊ"ÀiÌ>ÌÊ,i}Ê£äÊ iÜÊÊ Ê Trustees (05-06/2011) UÊ*ÀviÃÃ>Êi>À}Ê ÕÌiÃÊq Teachers and campus administrators collaborate to investigate, research and develop action plans to address local student needs. UÊ/-Ê-]Ê->ÊÌÊäÈÉÓä££® UÊ*ÊÎÈäcÊq Library of professional videos focused on work of internationally acclaimed experts and educators in classrooms across the nation. UÊ ,--Ê/iÝ>ÃÊÃÌÌÕÌi]Ê->Ì>ÊiÊäÇÉÓä££® Along with board support, the Plano ISD Education Foundation raises around $1 million annually in private donations supporting priority programs that enhance student learning. UÊnÓ`Êi}Ã>ÌÛiÊ1«`>ÌiÊ,i}Ê£äÊ,iÌÕÀ}Ê/ÀÕÃÌiiÃÊÊ (08-09/2011) UÊ/-Ê-]ÊÀÌÊ7ÀÌÊäÈÉÓä££® UÊ"«iÊiiÌ}ÃÊVÌ]Ê/-Ê-]ÊÀÌÊ7ÀÌÊäÈÉÓä££® UÊnÓ`Êi}Ã>ÌÛiÊ1«`>ÌiÊ/ ®Ê,i}Ê£äÊ,iÌÕÀ}ÊÊ Ê Trustees (08/2011) Plano ISD Superintendent of Schools Richard Matkin was honored in October, 2013 with a Distinguished Alumni Award from Austin College in Sherman, Texas. UÊ ÀÌÊ/iÝ>ÃÊ6Ã}Ê iÌÜÀ]ÊÀÃVÊ-ÊäÉÓä££® UÊ/-É/-Ê ÛiÌ]ÊÕÃÌÊä£äÉÓä££® UÊ,i}Ê£äÊÊ/ÀÕÃÌiiÃÊ£äÉÓä££® UÊ/i>ÊvÊ}ÌÊ£äÉÓä££® UÊ>À`ÊiÛi«iÌÊ6ÃÊ-ÌÀÕVÌÕÀiÊ1ÌÞ®Ê££ÉÓä££® UÊ/i>ÊvÊ}ÌÊ"i"iÊÜÕ«Êä£ÉÓä£Ó® UÊ/-ÊÀ>ÃÃÀÌÃÊiiÌ}ÊÛiÀiÌ>Ê-iÀÛViÃÊ>À`ÊÊ Dev (02/2012) UÊ ,--Ê/iÝ>ÃÊiÜÃÊÕÊ,iÌÀi>Ì]ÊÕÃÌÊÊ (03/2012) Ê UÊ -Ê viÀiVi]ÊÃÌÊä{ÉÓä£Ó® UÊ /, Ê>À`Ê/À>}]ÊViÞÊä{ÉÓä£Ó® UÊi}Ã>ÌÛiÊ`ÛÃÀÞÊ ÕVÊiiÌ}]ÊÕÃÌÊÊ (04/2012) Ê 2012-2013 UÊ/-Ê-]Ê->ÊÌÊäÈÉÓä£Ó® UÊ>À`Ê,iÌÀi>ÌÊ ÓÊi>À}ÊäÈÉÓä£Ó® UÊ/-Ê-]ÊÀÌÊ7ÀÌÊäÈÉÓä£Ó® UÊ/-Ê /-]ÊiÜÃÛiÊ-ÊäÉÓä£Ó® UÊ/i>ÊvÊ}ÌÊ/À>}Ê ÓÊi>À}Ê-ÌÀ>Ìi}VÊ*>ÊÊ Ê (09/2012) UÊ/-É/-Ê ÛiÌ]ÊÕÃÌÊäÉÓä£Ó® UÊi>ìÀÃ«Ê/-Ê-iÃÃÊ"iÊäÉÓä£Ó® UÊ ,--ÊVVÕÌ>LÌÞÊäÉÓä£Ó® UÊ/-Ê`ÛV>VÞÊÌÊ >«]ÊÕÃÌÊ££ÉÓä£Ó® UÊi>ìÀÃ«Ê/-Ê-iÃÃÊ/Ü]Ê->Ê>ÀVÃÊ££ÉÓä£Ó® UÊ ÕÌÞÊ-VÃÊ/À>ÃvÀ>ÌÊ>ViÊÌÊ>À`ÊÊ Ê -iÃÃ]Ê/iÝ>ÃÊEÊ iÀViÊä£ÉÓä£Î® UÊ -Êi>ìÀÃ«Ê viÀiViÊ, ]Ê7>Ã}ÌÊÊ (01/2013) Ê UÊ ,--Ê/iÝ>ÃÊiÜÃÊÕÊ,iÌÀi>Ì]ÊÕÃÌÊÊ (02/2013) Ê UÊi>ìÀÃ«Ê/-Ê-iÃÃÊ/Àii]Ê À«ÕÃÊ ÀÃÌÊÊ (03/2013) Ê UÊ/-É/-Êi}Ã>ÌÛiÊ viÀiVi]ÊÕÃÌÊäÎÉÓä£Î® UÊ/-Ê /-Êi}Ã>ÌÛiÊ1«`>Ìi]Ê,V>À`ÃÊ-ÊÊ Ê (04/2013) UÊ -Ê viÀiVi]Ê->Êi}Êä{ÉÓä£Î® UÊi>ìÀÃ«Ê/-Ê-iÃÃÊÕÀÊä{ÉÓä£Î® 53 Support of professional development opportunities for the superintendent 2013-2014 UÊ/-Ê-]Ê->ÊÌÊäÈÉÓä£Î® UÊ/-Ê-]ÊÀÌÊ7ÀÌÊäÈÉÓä£Î® UÊi>ìÀÃ«Ê/-Ê-iÃÃÊÛiÊäÈÉÓä£Î® UÊnÎÀ`Êi}Ã>ÌÛiÊ1«`>ÌiÊ/ ®Ê,i}Ê£äÊ,iÌÕÀ}ÊÊ Ê Trustees (08/2013) UÊnÎÀ`Êi}Ã>ÌÛiÊ1«`>ÌiÊ,i}Ê£äÊ,iÌÕÀ}Ê/ÀÕÃÌiiÃÊÊ (09/2013) UÊ/i>ÊvÊ}ÌÊ/À>}Ê/-Ê-Õ«iÀÌiìÌÊÛ>Õ>ÌÊÊ (09/2013) UÊ/-É/-Ê ÛiÌ]Ê>>ÃÊäÉÓä£Î® UÊ/-É/-Ê ÛiÌ]Ê>>Ã]Êi}Ã>ÌÛiÊ1«`>ÌiÊÊ Ê (09/2013) UÊ -Ê`ÛV>VÞÊÃÌÌÕÌi]Ê7>Ã}ÌÊäÓÉÓä£{® UÊ /-ÊÀ>ÃÃÀÌÃÊiiÌ}Ê,i}Ê£äÊ- ÊÊ (02/2014) Ê UÊ ,--Ê/iÝ>ÃÊiÜÃÊÕÊ,iÌÀi>Ì]ÊÕÃÌÊÊ (03/2014) Ê Superintendent Matkin has received 64 hours of professional development training so far this year—more than double the required 30 hours for his pay grade. The hours represent a wide variety of topics and were at the local and state levels. Plano ISD is a leader in Region 10 and in the state. As such, there are numerous requests for Mr. Matkin’s participation on committees. Along with his professional memberships in TASBO, NSBA, TASA, TSBPA and AASA, he actively participates on these committees: UÊ ÀÌÊ/iÝ>ÃÊ,i}>Ê ÃÀÌÕ UÊ,i}Ê£äÊ`ÃÌÀ>ÌÛiÊ-iÀÛViÃÊ`ÛÃÀÞÊ>À` UÊ,i}Ê£äÊ,i}>Ê ÃÀÌÕÊvÀÊÛ>ÌÊ>À` UÊ-V/iVÊ`ÛÃÀÞÊ ÌÌii UÊ1ÊÕÃVÊÝiVÕÌÛiÊ ÌÌii UÊ7- ÊqÊ7iÃÌiÀÊ-Ì>ÌiÃÊiV>ÀÊ ÃÀÌÕ UÊÕÃÌÊ i}iÊ*ÀiÃìÌ½ÃÊ6ÃÌ}Ê ÕV UÊ*>Ê >LiÀÊvÊ iÀViÊqÊ*VÞÊ`ÛÃÀÞÊ>À` UÊ/iÝ>ÃÊV>ìVÊiV>ÌÊ,i}>ÊÀiVÌÀÃ UÊ -Ê viÀiVi]Ê iÜÊ"Ài>ÃÊä{ÉÓä£{® 54 UÊ ÀÌÊ/iÝ>ÃÊ,i}>Ê6Ã}Ê ÃÀÌÕ]ÊViÞÊÊ High School (04/2014) Professional association membership: TASBO – Texas Association of School Business Officials NSBA – National School Board Association TASA – Texas Association of School Administrators TSBPA – Texas State Board of Public Accountancy AASA – American Association of School Administrators Committees and Boards: North Texas Regional Consortium Region 10 Administrative Services Advisory Board Region 10 Regional Consortium for Innovation Board Sci-Tech Advisory Committee UIL Music Executive Committee WSBC – Western States Benchmark Consortium Austin College President’s Visiting Council Plano Chamber of Commerce – Policy Advisory Board Texas Academic Decathlon Regional Directors Training for Superintendent Richard Matkin Training: 30 hours required; 64 hours acquired. Training Date Hours Team of Eight - TASB Sep-13 3 Weaver DFW Government & Nonprofit CPE Sep-13 4 2013 Purchasing Academy Oct-13 8 Region 10 Executive Leadership Services Kick-Off Oct-13 2 Region 10 Superintendent Fall Retreat Nov-13 5 Budget & Financial Planning Dec-13 6 Region 10 Superintendent Study Group Dec-13 2 IRS Compliance Workshop - Allen ISD Jan-14 6 Spring Leadership Symposium 2014 Feb-14 3 TASBO Annual Conference Feb-14 12 Investment Officer Training (1 of 2) Apr-14 6 Weaver Fraud 101 Apr-14 2 Region 10 Annual Public School Finance Conference May-14 5 TOTAL 64 Superintendent Richard Matkin, along with trustees and senior staff, presented the district’s original tool for community based assessment at the 2014 TASB Summer Leadership Institute. 55 Placement of the welfare of children served by the school system above personal or political motives Tammy Richards Place 1 Ms. Richards was elected in May 2013 to serve her second term on the school board. She served as board president during the 2011-12 and 2012-13 school years. She is currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer of the Volunteer Center of North Texas, which is based in Dallas. Her career experience also includes serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star. She formerly served as Associate Dean of the Lyle School of Engineering at Southern Methodist University, and she has held executive positions at Texas Instruments, including Vice President of marketing and customer service for the educational technology business. Ms. Richards is a Texas registered professional engineer. Throughout her career, Ms. Richards has worked with a number of local, state and national educational organizations, including the Texas Education Agency, the Texas State Board of Education, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the Texas Business Education Coalition, the Texas High School Project, the Texas Workforce Commission, the National Council Teachers of Mathematics and the National Science Teachers Association. Ms. Richards received her bachelor of science degree in industrial engineering from Texas A&M University (summa cum laude) and a master of business administration degree from Harvard University. Ms. Richards and her family have lived in Plano for twenty-four years. She and her husband Mike Douglass have two children, a daughter who is a Plano ISD graduate currently attending Texas A&M University and a son in high school in Plano ISD. “When our trustees and superintendent have faced challenging issues such as boundary changes, program adjustments or budgetary constraints, we have been united as a Team of Eight. We also jointly represented the need for a Tax Ratification Election to our community and have held to our promises of classroom size relief and a commitment to help employees with competitive salary increases and solutions to rising healthcare costs.” Tammy Richards Support of potentially unpopular actions when those actions are clearly to the benefit of the district and its children Not all of the school board’s actions are popular among community members; however, once the board explains how they reached a decision, the public usually supports the action. Academy High School When state funding was drastically cut in 2011, after careful and thoughtful deliberations the board made the hard decision to implement a reduction in force and increase class sizes. At the same time, the board was presented the unique opportunity to acquire a building for their new, cutting-edge Academy High School. At first, the public couldn’t understand how, on one hand, the board made drastic reductions in the workforce while on the other hand, it spent funds on a building for a new pilot program. The board explained how the money came from two separate sources that could not be used interchangeably. In other words, the building money could not be used for the workforce and the workforce money could not be used for the building. When Academy High School opened this past school year, it was with more than $5 million donated dollars from the business community. Additionally, there was a list of students waiting for an open spot. For 2014-2015, student applications increased by more than 50 percent. Clearly, the business community and Plano ISD families have accepted the board’s decision and embraced the new project based learning academy as a welcomed addition to the district. Student and Family Services With census data indicating a trend toward increasing cultural and economic diversity in Plano ISD, the school district provides family services that promote student achievement and the involvement of all families in the school community. While these services are not popular among all residents, the Plano ISD Board of Trustees knows that parents are their children’s first and most important teachers. Parents should be given resources to work cooperatively with Plano ISD to ensure that their children are ready for college or career upon graduation. The board sees a pressing need in the community for these programs, and as such, the goal of the student and family services department is to see every student successful at their home campus and in the community by offering such programs as: Plano Family Literacy Program Early education for families is essential for future success in school and life. Trustees vigorously support the multiaward-winning Plano Family Literacy Program as an all-inclusive, full family educational program designed to assist at-risk families. The focused, intensive program addresses adult education, early childhood education, parent education, interactive literacy activities and home visits for each family. Adult education focuses on comprehensive literacy training that leads to economic self-sufficiency. Early childhood education includes ageappropriate education to prepare children for success in school and life. Training and support is offered for parents on how to be the primary teacher for their children and on teaching parents how to be full partners in the education of their child. Interactive literacy activities between parents and their children are instrumental to the families’ success. Personal visits to participants’ homes teach the value of school and home learning. Families come to the program for very basic reasons. They understand that unemployment and dependence on public assistance follow low literacy skills. They also recognize that their children probably will continue the pattern of low literacy. The family literacy design springs from the belief that synergy occurs when basic components that build on one another are incorporated together, making the composite more powerful than any single component. Mobile Learning Lab When Plano ISD trustees look at a student, they see a family. With that core belief, trustees support a mobile computer lab vehicle that provides family services and adult education for parents in their neighborhoods. Inside the vehicle, Plano ISD offers parent courses in computer literacy, finance, career exploration, English and more. The mobile learning lab connects parents to community resources and provides an opportunity to utilize the district’s Parent Portal and other online tools. Services that are currently available to families through central office, special program centers and at school campuses have been taken into neighborhoods to allow even greater access to these much needed resources. With the addition of this mobile computer lab, the school board has increased its efforts to educate the whole child, which includes student and family. 59 PASAR After-School Program 60 PASAR is Plano ISD’s after-school care program for students in grades K-5, located on all 45 elementary campuses. PASAR is a fee-based program offered after the curriculum and instructional school day. PASAR provides a safe and positive environment. Opportunities are given for students to work on homework and participate in structured recreational and fine arts activities to enhance their overall skill development. Employee Child Care Centers The Plano ISD Employee Child Care Centers were created by the Plano ISD Board of Trustees to provide a service for teachers and their young children. The two exceptional centers have proven to be valuable tools in the retention and recruitment of the very best teachers in north Texas. The centers opened their doors in 2008 and 2012, respectively, on opposite sides of the district. The Employee Child care centers serve children from 6 weeks of age to kindergarten age. The centers are licensed through the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Their mission is to provide a fun, nurturing and safe learning environment committed to preparing lifelong learners. Safety and Security Although it may be distressing for parents to see intensified security measures and police presence at their child’s campus, the national events of past years have heightened security concerns. Following thorough research, discovery and legal counsel, an enhanced security plan was approved by the Plano ISD Board of Trustees and put in place at the campus level. Features include: UÊ/>À}iÌÊ>Àì}ÊqÊ`vÞ}ÊiÌÀ>ViÃÉiÝÌÃÊ>Ã needed and creating physical barriers. UÊ`ì`Ê«ViÊ«ÀÌiVÌÊÊ>``}Ê«ViÊÃÕÀÛi>Vi and/or presence at all campuses through the use of contracted police patrols that will continually move between campuses. UÊLiÊ«>VÊLÕÌÌÃÊqÊÌiÃiÊÌÃÊÜÊLiÊ>`ì`Ê>ÌÊÌi elementary and early childhood campuses which serve our most vulnerable students. UÊ``Ì>ÊÃ>viÌÞÊ`ÀÃÊ>`ÊÌÀ>}ÊvÀÊiÜÊÌÃ°Ê The police presence and the updated security plan address a broad range of security issues. New components complement the existing security plan and provide added security to all campuses with an emphasis at elementary and early childhood locations. Plano ISD is grateful for individual city and county efforts to provide this support. Examples of placing dedication to the school system above special favors and policy exceptions Visitor Guidelines The Plano ISD Board of Trustees is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for students, staff and visitors. In an effort to accomplish this goal the district provides a comprehensive security program. The district safety program is designed to provide students, staff and visitors with facilities that meet or exceed standards in fire safety, air quality, hazardous materials management, chemical safety and building safety. Dallas Mavericks owner and entrepreneur Mark Cuban is seen wearing a security clearance badge when he visited Clark High School in May 2014 to scout some up-and-coming talent in the virtual business world. Students in the virtual business class presented their business plans to a four-person “Shark Tank” style judging panel, with Mr. Cuban offering his real-world advice. In Plano ISD, vistors are always welcome in schools. In order to protect the security of students and staff and the learning environment at schools, visitors must adhere to visitor guidelines in order to gain admittance into campuses and facilities. No exceptions are made no matter how familiar the person is to the staff or how often they come to the school. All Plano ISD campuses and facilities use the RAPTOR electronic visitor management system. The RAPTOR system, which requires the visitor to present a driver’s license or other acceptable form of government-issued identification, logs the visitor into the building and provides the visitor with a temporary, photo-identification badge to wear while in the building. The visitor management system also checks the visitor’s identification against a nationwide database of registered sex offenders. In addition, all district volunteers must clear a background check before being allowed on any campus or being allowed to volunteer at an event where children are present. This includes employees of trusted business partners, who may have already undergone a more extensive background check before being hired. Distribution of School Materials and Non-School Materials Plano Trustees approved a policy related to distribution of non-school literature allowing greater distribution of nonschool related materials. Former policy provided a forum to share materials by placing items on a distribution table from which students could choose to take or not take an item. The revised policy creates more opportunities for students to exchange materials, while remaining nondisruptive to the educational process. The distribution table is still available for the distribution of student materials and those items that are provided by non-school entities, which still require prior approval in most cases. Students are not required to have prior approval for the content of items to be distributed to their classmates or to the general student body. However, limitations are placed on the content of materials related to obscenity, age-appropriateness and other guidelines as stated in the policy language. Plano ISD limits access of all non-school adults, including parents and third parties, on school property. As a result, distribution by all non-school adults warrants different guidelines. Many times, the district hears that it is “stricter” than others with distribution policy, including the fact that a company representative must come to the administration building and physically fill out a form and turn in a physical copy of the material to be distributed. However, like with the school visitor policy, no matter how well-known the business is to the district or how many times they distribute materials, they must always follow the materials distribution policy. 61 Public relations efforts, including community awareness “I have embraced my role as the board’s spokesperson when we are represented to the media. However, we all shoulder the responsibility to put our best-foot-forward in representing our district locally, on the county platform, for our state legislative advocacy agenda and at the national level. We have maintained a productive relationship with our legislators with a deep commitment to represent the needs of the Plano school community.” Nancy Humphrey, President Copies of newsletters or news clippings illustrating the school district’s efforts to convey information on procedure and policy to the community Included in the Plano ISD 2013-18 Strategic Plan is a goal regarding community connectedness. Two objectives within this goal are that the school board will engage all stakeholders through multiple media and in-person venues, periodic surveys and active listening; and promote the district’s achievements and reputation to a global audience. Electronic Community Newsletter Since 2001, Plano ISD’s technology department has supported a districtdesigned and administered online communication tool called “eNews.” The Plano ISD communications department and each of the district’s 72 campuses publish electronic newsletters to vast numbers of subscribers. The district newsletter, typically released weekly during the school year, has a subscribership of 30,000 parents and community patrons. 65 Electronic Employee Newsletter District Digest spotlights employees and provides them with relevant news, as well as notes and achievements about their peers in a user-friendly, full-color format. Eyecatching graphics draw in readers. The electronic format allows for a greater number of stories and issues than a print version would, which helps build employee morale and lets employees get to know one another through reading about their news and accomplishments. Social Media Plano ISD uses Facebook and Twitter to support the school board in strengthening communication and building a shared vision within the community. Adding social media to the complement of Plano ISD’s communications tools has helped increase the district’s community reach and opened a dialogue with constituents that strengthen relationships and help establish trust and unity to better serve students and their families. Through social media, the district is able to reach existing and new audiences, publicize key messages about the district in a candid and informal style and produce timely responses. Social media helps enhance the district’s visibility, reputation and public support by generating positive media messages and coverage. Plano ISD has more than 13,000 Facebook fans and more than 12,000 Twitter followers. “NeighborsGo” Community Leaders Column 66 The Dallas Morning News publishes a community-based news insert entitled “NeighborsGo,” geared toward neighborhood news and features. Their Community Leaders column has provided Plano ISD four opportunities in the past school year to share messages with the Plano ISD community covering Plano ISD’s Tax Ratification Election, the opening of the Academy Programs of Plano, the fundraising efforts of the Plano ISD Education Foundation and the annual Teacher of the Year Gala. Plano ISD Education Foundation Newsletters The Plano ISD Education Foundation connects the district to key community leaders through its published two electronic newsletters, including one newsletter to a group of key community leaders and one to all subscribed Plano ISD alumni. Plano ISD in the News: News Media Monitoring The school board receives monthly updates (with more frequent updates during peak times of news coverage) regarding news media activity related to Plano schools, and have invested in online media monitoring services to provide reports and analysis. These resources provide trustees with real-time data that illustrates how the district is achieving its strategic goal to “promote the collective responsibility, involvement and support of public education to ensure student success.” 67 Samples of publications aimed at informing the community about the board and the district, as well as actions affecting local public schools Annual Report The annual report provides comprehensive information from the superintendent and school board to the community, including the district’s mission and goals, post-secondary readiness facts about the most recent graduating class, district and school accountability ratings, financial reports, bond program updates and achievements of students, faculty and staff. Upon the announcement that Toyota would be relocating its corporate headquarters to the City of Plano, district and city officials worked cooperatively with the Economic Development Office to provide much requested information about Plano ISD, which was lauded by the organization as a premier district. As an efficient tool to best represent the district and to provide a custom welcome to the employees of Toyota, the district’s annual report was repurposed with a new cover and a letter of hospitality from the superintendent. 68 TRE Website The TRE website provided an overview and FAQ regarding the school board’s decision to hold a first-ever tax ratification election to support Plano ISD in November, 2013. A critical component on the TRE website included an informational video explaining the implications of a tax ratification election and the impact on the Plano ISD community. The video was used widely in meetings to communicate internally and externally to a high degree. This highly regarded tool has been requested for use by other districts as model to communicate complex information to the general public. Academy Programs of Plano Dedicated Websites A vital part of introducing the Academy Programs of Plano included the use of a dedicated website for each of the three learning environments, which included an introductory web page and video as a program overview. From this page, parents and students could investigate three individual sites to help guide their potential interest in applying for the inaugural year. This website proved invaluable to students and their families choosing to make important decisions about their school careers as they enter high school. Course Catalogs Implemented legislation caused a number of changes to occur at the secondary course level of study. As a courtesy to parents and students, Plano ISD offers access to several years of online course catalogs in order to track students’ course strategies for graduation. 69 Student/Parent Policy Guide The Plano ISD Student/Parent Policy Guide contains a sampling of Plano ISD’s policies and procedures relevant to student admissions and attendance, student rights and responsibilities, student conduct, as well as other information in a user-friendly format intended to simplify policy language for families. Included in this publication is the district’s discipline management plan, including administrator, teacher, parent and student rights and responsibilities regarding student discipline. The Student Code of Conduct is included and specifies school and district action which will be taken for student offenses which outlines the school community’s expectation for safe and orderly campuses. Plano ISD takes very seriously the responsibility to maintain order and discipline on each and every campus while at the same time remaining dedicating to students successful growth and accomplishments. Evidence of efforts to obtain community input and/or involve community members in decision making During the 2012 superintendent’s search, the Board of Trustees placed an emphasis on gathering information from the community through a survey and several focus group sessions. The input from focus groups and the survey resulted in the school board working together in executive board meetings and special sessions to create a new superintendent evaluation instrument in 2013-14. Trustees received input from community members on several occasions as they spoke at meetings throughout the Plano ISD community and via the public comment session at each regular board meeting. Superintendent Richard Matkin made personal visits to every school and department to kick off the 2013-14 school year, when funding was unavailable to continue the traditional Employee Convocation. His personal connection to staff as superintendent, which included trustees in attendance when possible, created a welcoming atmosphere of teamwork and connection. The superintendent and his leadership team gain input each month during meetings with his Superintendent’s Student Advisory Committee, which is an invaluable tool in keeping students at the heart of each decision. The school board surveyed the community prior to adopting the 2014-15 school year calendar. As a result of a community survey, trustees adjusted the draft calendar prior to approval. Their willingness to receive input and react with requested change made a positive impression upon the community at large. In the spirit of the back-to-school season in August 2013, Plano citizens were surveyed through the City of Plano’s online “Engage Plano” survey about school-specific issues. This partnership with the city provided the school board with invaluable feedback from the greater community about education. The school board utilizes a variety of tools and meetings to gather input from students and community stakeholders annually. Many of these include dedicated informational web pages, newsletters, surveys, videos and discussion forums. 70 UÊ-«i>}Êi}>}iiÌÃÊ UÊÃÌÀVÌÊiÛiÌÊÃÕÀÛiÞÃ UÊ*/ÊiiÌ}ÃÊ UÊ/i>ViÀÊvÊÌiÊ9i>ÀÊÃiiVÌÊ UÊiÞÊ ÕV>ÌÀÊiiÌ}Ã UÊ*>Ê-Ê`ÕV>ÌÊÕ`>ÌÊ>À`ÊvÊÀiVÌÀÃÊiiÌ}Ã UÊ "Ê`ÛÃÀÞÊÀÕ«ÊÕ>ÊÀi>v>ÃÌ UÊ-Ì>vvÊiiÌ}Ã\ 9 School Principals 9 Faculty Council 9 Office Managers The Plano ISD Education Foundation hosts an annual CEO breakfast for business leaders to hear an update from the superintendent of schools and to set goals for supporting Plano ISD students, faculty and staff for the upcoming school year. Plano ISD Key Communicators are parents nominated for one year of service by their school principals. They link parents and the community to information about the school district, while being kept informed at meetings and through periodical mailings, online information, events and personal contact. Maintenance of harmonious and supportive relationships among board members “I feel like I can reach out to each trustee or to my entire board in an honest, candid and forthright manner. As we have coalesced into a Team of Eight, we realized that we needed to spend some time together to become aware of our groups’ strengths, weaknesses and to create a unified approach to boardsmanship. Everyone has held to the tenants of the commitment to teamwork. As a result, we have accomplished major goals such as maintaining fiscal focus, passing a Tax Ratification Election, launching an aggressive academy program with three new learning environments while also having all of our incumbents re-elected in the past election. I could not be more proud of these seven individuals and teammates.” Superintendent Richard Matkin Statements from individual board members and news media personnel testifying to the harmonious working relationship among board members The Plano ISD Board of Trustees is committed to the district’s motto, “Teamwork for excellence,” working with one another and district administrators on behalf of all students. Their cohesive working relationship allows them to make the very best decisions that will sustain and strengthen the district, maintaining Plano ISD’s place among the nation’s premiere public school systems. “My fellow board members have instilled a true sense of appreciation for meaningful dialog without discord. There have been many decisions that have shown multifaceted opinions among our trustees. Ultimately, whether a unanimous vote or otherwise, we proceed as a unified board on behalf of our school children.” – Nancy Humphrey, Board President “We represent a large constituency in our school community. Therefore, our decisions must be studied and our questions must be thorough. I am comfortable in speaking up regarding any details regarding clarification or my position on any issue and appreciate my fellow trustees who do the same. We are a body for governance, but our leadership is tempered with the desire to serve school children and the community.” – David Stolle, Board Vice President “I and my fellow trustees have various interests in our volunteerism and boardsmanship. These interests contribute to our leadership as a school board, but can also lead to lively discussions. I am proud of our Team of Eight, which includes our superintendent, to say our decisions ultimately reflect our opinions of what is best for students and the district.” – Michael Friedman, Board Secretary Trustee Carrolyn Moebius (center) was presented with a certificate at the September 2013 school board meeting by Board Vice President David Stolle for being named a Leadership TASB Alumni Association Lifetime Member. Celebrating with her were fellow alums, Trustee Missy Bender and Retired Trustees Mary Beth King and Duncan Webb. 73 Indications of unified action by the board, including evidence of effective resolution of differences The current Plano ISD Board of Trustees made a concerted effort to come together to get to know each other and their school district. They pursued Team of Eight training that specifically provided a forum for them to identify and express differing opinions. The result was developing a unified profile of the school district, placing student needs, rather than individual personalities, at the forefront of all decision making. Investing in this type of leadership training and team building has allowed the board to demonstrate the comprehensive leadership approach representative of the diverse constituency they serve. This approach ultimately garnered the support of the community which led to the reelection of five incumbents in 2013, retaining the momentum of the currently placed board. “I applaud the Plano ISD Board of Trustees for their sincere effort to unite as a team through open communication and for their continued efforts to effectively engage the community.” 74 The board is inclusive of all its members, which is reflected in their service as board liaisons to other boards and advisory groups in the community. Current trustees established a fair process for selection, allowing each board member to voice their first, second and third choices for service. This participatory approach, rather than being arbitrarily assigned, allows service to be shared rather than coveted. At times when the board has had votes that are not unanimous, in cases such as property acquisition and grading requirements, trustees have taken the opportunity to address their concerns to each other and to constituents in a public and broadcasted meeting. Board members are comfortable speaking candidly and voting their conscience—and then become unified in their implementation. A specific area reflecting a collective endeavor by trustees is in regard to legislative advocacy. Each trustee has their own contribution of leadership in challenging local and state elected officials as champions for their constituents. They maintain a high profile as a board in representing education reform and legislative priority with county, state and federal government. – Danny Modisette, N2 Learning Plano ISD Board of Trustees pictured at district graduation ceremonies.

B O A R D O F ... P L A N O I N D...

Related documents

Products

Support

B O A R D O F ... P L A N O I N D...

Related documents

Add this document to collection(s)

Add this document to saved

Suggest us how to improve StudyLib