Minutes of Calgary Science School Society, Board of ...Calgary Science School Society Board Meeting...

Calgary Science School Society Board Meeting January 26, 2013

Minutes of Calgary Science School Society, Board of Directors Meeting

January 26, 2013 at the Calgary Science School

Board members present: Wendy Baillie (Vice Chair), Lorraine Chan, Luana Comin-‐Sartor, Stephanie Davis, Chas Filipski, Lindsay Hogan, Denise Kitagawa, Dr. Ashley Nixon, Gavin Peat, Dale Ronsky Debra Scott and Dr. Norm Vaughan Board members absent: Harold Lemieux (Chair) and Allison Earl Staff present: Dr. Garry McKinnon (Superintendent), Darrell Lonsberry (Principal), Scott Petronech (Assistant Principal) and Myra Penberthy (Secretary Treasurer). Board Vice Chair Wendy Baillie declared a quorum and called the meeting to order at 11:47 a.m. Motion 48.12 by Tim Edwards, THAT the agenda be approved. Carried Motion 49.12 by Lindsay Hogan,

THAT the minutes of December 11, 2012 board meeting be approved. Carried

Stephanie Davis reviewed the amendments to Policy 1.03 Policy Development which has been worked on within the School Operations committee. Motion 50.12 by Stephanie Davis,

THAT Policy 1.03 Policy Development be approved as amended. Carried

Motion 51.12 by Dale Ronsky,

THAT the board ratify a temporary teaching contract, for Ms. Heather Melville (nee Drage) from January 7, 2013 to June 30, 2013.

Carried Luana Comin-‐Sartor reviewed the Audit & Finance Committee report see attachment “A” Motion 52.12 by Denise Kitagawa,

THAT the Board approve the November 30, 2012 quarterly financial statements. Carried Motion 53.12 by Norm Vaughan,

THAT the Board approve Alberta Treasury Branch signing authorities as follows: Harold Lemieux, Chair Wendy Baillie, Vice-‐Chair Allison Earl, Chair of the Audit & Finance Committee Luana Comin-‐Sartor, member of the Audit & Finance Committee Dr. Garry McKinnon, Superintendent Myra Penberthy, Secretary Treasurer


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Darrell Lonsberry, Principal Phil Butterfield, Assistant Principal Scott Petronech, Assistant Principal

Carried Motion 54.12 by Debra Scott, THAT the board approve an increase to the Director’s & Officer’s insurance policy threshold to five million dollars of coverage. Carried Ms. Lindsay Hogan presented a power point presentation on the evolvement and unveiling of the new CSS logo. She demonstrated in the presentation some of the possible variations of the logo which illustrated its versatility. See attachment “C”. Motion by 55.12 by Luana Comin-‐Sartor THAT the Board approve the new logo as presented Carried Motion 56.12 by Dale Ronsky, THAT the Board approve contracting Redphone Inc. for a maximum of $3,000 to go through the process of exploring a name change and transition plan for both the visual logo and name. Carried Motion 57.12 by Tim Edwards, THAT the Board approve making a submission to Alberta Education for a second school facility (campus) for the Calgary Science School. Carried Audit & Finance Committee Report, Luana Comin-‐Sartor

• See report attached as Attachment “A” Secretary Treasurer’s Report, Myra Penberthy

• See report attached as Attachment “B” Communications Committee Report, Lindsay Hogan

• See report attached as Attachment “C”.

Motion 58.12 by Lorraine Chan, THAT the meeting terminate at 12:30 p.m. Carried ______________________________ Wendy Baillie, Board Vice Chair


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Attachment “A” AUDIT AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT

dated January 20, 2013

Summary Meeting: January 15, 2013 Attending: Allison Earl, Luana Comin-Sartor, Dr. Garry McKinnon, Darrell Lonsberry, and Myra Penberthy The committee met to review the draft financial statements for the 3 months ended November 30, 2012. The committee approved the financial statements for the first quarter for submission to the Board of Directors for approval. The committee also reviewed the Management Letter (Internal Control letter) prepared by Grant Thornton LLP in conjunction with the audit of the financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2012 and discussed the issues identified. Action Item: Financial Statement Approval

• Approval of the financial statements and notes for the 3 months ended November 30, 2012. The committee reviewed the draft financial statements for the 3 months ended November 30, 2012. The committee walked through the financial statements and the analyses provided regarding the financial statements. The analyses included both a detailed and a summary variance analysis of actual results to budgeted numbers. The financial results for the 3 months ended November 30, 2012 have a net variance of $80,500 to budget where net revenue over expenses is $80,500 greater than budgeted. This means that there is less of a drawdown on the surplus than budgeted. However, the variance results primarily from timing differences that will reverse through the year. The committee approved the financial statements as presented for submission to the Board of Directors for formal approval.

Other Discussion

• Management Letter Follow Up: Decision to have a quarterly sign off on journal entries for journal entries over $25,000 by a director that is a member of the audit and finance committee. Myra will send letter to auditor to advise of process development.

• Management Letter Follow Up: Discussion of the policy development for a whistle blower policy that includes financial issues. Luana will work through issue and distribute information for next committee meeting.

• We will set up a meeting for Myra, Luana and Allison regarding the new Public Sector Accounting Standards and the impact on our financial statements and adoption of new principles/processes with Chuck and Myra of Grant Thornton LLP for February.

• We will ask Janice (insurance provider representative) to agree with our interpretation of officers (staff inclusion) for the directors and officers insurance. We expect to be recommending a level of $5,000,000 coverage on a go forward basis.

• The audit and finance committee will be meeting on March 6, 2013 to review/discuss draft budget for the 2014 year. The committee had a general discussion regarding the budget and budget process.


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Attachment “B” January 26, 2013

Secretary Treasurer’s Report

Financial Statements The year to date results for November 30, 2012 include a deficit for the year of $67,000, which gives CSS a positive variance of $81,000 compared to the budget. The largest variance areas were $25,000 for net fundraising revenue in school generated funds not spent yet, $25,000 in payroll expenses related to EI and CPP contributions timing differences and facilities enhancements of $25,000 which are slated for the student/staff lounge and study hall. At the Audit and Finance Committee meeting on January 15, 2013, committee members reviewed draft financial statements for the quarter ended November 30, 2012. Lloyd Sadd Insurance update I have received the D & O insurance quote for an increase in coverage from $2,000,000 to $5,000,000 which will be an increase in premiums of $1200/year. The audit and finance committee is in favor of increasing the coverage. Lloyd Sadd has also reviewed our outdoor education policy and informed consent forms. They have indicated that “The policy looks great. Very detailed in terms of what it is required for the outdoor trip, what is expected from all parties involved ant the approval process itself. The forms are clean and to the point. It makes it an easy read for the parents which means they will take the time to read it before signing. I think you have laid out the potential exposures very well in each form.” They have indicated that the Lakeview skating form could be tightened up to add “approved helmet for ice skating” rather than just approved helmet and advised against the use of 15-‐passenger vans. Eli Mina workshop I attended a two day workshop in Vancouver BC. The first day was on “Minute taking standards & related issues” and the second day was on “Demystifying Robert’s rules of order”. They were both very comprehensive and practical workshops and I would recommend them to anyone who would like to know more about those two topics. I learned a lot and also it validated a lot of the things we do. One of the things I learned it that it may be worthwhile to establish a minute taking policy which defines what we would like to see in our minutes as a board. I would like to thank the board for giving me the opportunity to attend.


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Attachment “C” A Year in Review Communications

WHAT HAVE WE BEEN WORKING ON… In February 2012, CSS engaged Serita Rana to address a communications and fund development plan. Initial review of the school identified two primary communications challenges:

• image and branding • articulating a solid case for support for the fund

development issues Serita focused on communications and marketing over “case for support” The Communications Plan focused on: • communications strategy • evaluation • messaging • media relations • social media • marketing needs • alumni relations • preparing for a fund development program ALUMNI RELATIONS 3-year plan to implement: • database • communications • events • volunteering • Benefits Progress made with summer student The contract with Serita finished in June • Serita’s recommendation: seek expertise for a logo design and possible name change • In August/September, Dan McWilliam initiated an online contest using crowd sourcing • October – made the decision not to proceed with the final logo document from 99 designs • October/November – engaged Glen Kayler from Redphone Inc. for a brand/logo identity • Approve logo • Consider name change

Calgary Science School Society Board Meeting February 19, 2013


February 19, 2013 at the Calgary Science School

Board members present: Harold Lemieux (Chair), Wendy Baillie (Vice Chair), Luana Comin-‐Sartor, Chas Filipski, Lindsay Hogan, Denise Kitagawa, Gavin Peat, Dale Ronsky and Debra Scott. Board members absent: Lorraine Chan, Stephanie Davis, Allison Earl, Dr. Ashley Nixon and Dr. Norm Vaughan Staff present: Dr. Garry McKinnon (Superintendent), Darrell Lonsberry (Principal), Scott Petronech (Assistant Principal) and Myra Penberthy (Secretary Treasurer). Board Chair Harold Lemieux declared a quorum and called the meeting to order at 5:25 p.m. Mr. Rick Fawcett and Mr. Jared McKenzie made a presentation highlighting their work with their grade 7 humanity students in a Family Artifact Inquiry Project. Their presentation included a video clip made up exemplars of the student work which was based on a family artifact, research of the artifact and an iMovie presentation. The students showed a lot of creativity and engagement as they illustrated personal reflections on the artifact that was selected. The teachers very capably responded to questions and shared background information in regard to the inquiry. Commendations were expressed for the exemplary work of the students and teachers. Motion 59.12 by, Wendy Baillie. THAT the agenda be approved. Carried Motion 60.12 by Luana Comin-‐Sartor,

THAT the minutes of January 26, 2013 board meeting be approved. Carried

Motion 61.12 by Denise Kitagawa, THAT the Calgary Science School calendar for 2013-‐14 school year be approved. Carried Motion 62.12 by Debra Scott, THAT the Calgary Science School tentative calendar for the 2014-‐15 school year be approved. Carried The Calgary Science School strategic plan (Appendix A) which has been developed with the active involvement of the board and staff members was presented by Dr. Garry McKinnon and the board members and members of the leadership team were actively involved in a discussion of the four key areas of focus and the action strategies and measures. Motion 63.12 by Tim Edwards, THAT the Calgary Science School Society strategic plan be approved as amended. Carried Motion 64.12 by Lindsay Hogan,

THAT Amy Park be granted a full time secondment to Galileo from February 25, 2013 to June 30, 2013.

Carried


Motion 65.12 by Luana Comin-‐Sartor, THAT Heather Melville be granted a full time temporary contract from February 25, 2013 to June 28, 2013. School Operations Committee, Denise Kitagawa

• There will be a full day committee meeting on March 5, 2013 which will include two teacher representatives. The focus of the meeting will be on reviewing the Calgary Science School policy handbook.

Motion 66.12 by Denise Kitagawa

THAT Mrs. Margaret Leland and Mr. Jason Publack be appointed as teacher representatives to the School Operations Committee.

Facilities Committee, Tim Edwards

• The session on lighting retrofits provided by the Calgary Board of Education on February 28, 2013 will be attended by Mr. Lonsberry and members of the Facilities Committee.

• The Committee is in the process of formalizing an agreement with Enmax to provide some solar panels for the school as part of the Enmax Gen-‐E pilot project.

External Collaboration Committee, Gavin Peat

• Mr. Gavin Peat on behalf of the committee provided a report on the February 5 meeting which focused on a presentation by Mr. Dan McWilliam on his work as Professional Development and Collaboration Coordinator. The next meeting of the committee will be held on March 5.

Communications Committee, Lindsay Hogan • There was a communications committee February 11, 2013 involving the committee and

Communications Coordinator Chris Dittmann and Dan McWilliam Professional Development and Collaboration Coordinator to develop an action plan for enhancing communication.

• The action plan prepared by communications consultant Serita Rana will be reviewed by the committee.

• There will be a meeting with Communications Consultant Glen Kayler on March 1, 2013, to review branding strategies and possibilities for renaming the school.

• The alumni relations program is progressing and Ms. Baillie is taking on that responsibility. School Council Report, Denise Kitagawa

• Highlights from the Board retreat including the approval of a new school logo were shared with the School Council.

• The parent social is on March 2, 2013 at the school. • The casino fundraiser will take place on February 18 and 19th. • The fundraising committee has allocated $15,000 for: 3-‐D printer, solar cells for the cube van

and a few other projects. Governance Committee, Harold Lemieux

• The Governance Committee met on February 19, 2013 prior to the board meeting. • The committee reviewed recommendations prepared by The Alberta Association of Public

Charter Schools (TAAPCS) that reflect items they would like to see included or addressed in the new school regulations that will be required due to the new Education Act. Their proposed suggestions reflect areas of particular interest to charter schools. The board chair will formulate a response to present to the board in March and take those comments to the TAAPCS meeting on May 2, 2013.

• The committee roles were discussed and it was recommended that each committee chair take responsibility for articulating the terms of reference for the committee.


• The terms of reference for each committee will be presented to the board for approval and made available through the Board’ s drop box by the secretary-‐treasurer.

• A more structured approach for new board member orientation was discussed. • A more structured approach for new board member recruitment was discussed.

Secretary Treasurer’s Report, Myra Penberthy

• See attachment “B”. Motion 67.12 by Dale Ronsky,

THAT Ms. Allison Earl be granted permission for a medical leave from the Board of Directors. Carried Leadership Team Report, Dr. Garry McKinnon, Darrell Lonsberry, Phil Butterfield and Scott Petronech

• See attachment “C”. Motion 68.12 by Debra Scott, THAT the meeting terminate at 8:00 p.m. Carried __________________________ Wendy Baillie, Board Vice Chair


Attachment “A” Calgary Science School Strategic Plan Lead Share Transform - February 2013 Environmental Scan Issues that have affected CSS over the past 12 months are described in this section.

1. The government through the new Education Act describes charter schools as having “potential to provide improvements to the education system as a whole and to enhance educational research and innovation in Alberta” and the Minister of Education, the Hon. Jeff Johnson, would like to see charter schools impact other schools and provide leadership in the Inspiring Education agenda of promoting engaged learners and ethical citizens with an entrepreneurial spirit.

2. The Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools (TAAPCS) has traditionally promoted the role of charter schools as providing choice for parents who seek a different approach to learning and teaching and there is some disconnect with the government’s position on charter schools as outlined in point number one.

3. The Calgary Science School (CSS) has highly engaged student, teacher and parent populations, as well as an active, supportive Board. 4. Collaboration initiatives within the school and beyond have been successful in building the Calgary Science School’s reputation within the

educational community and Alberta Education as a hub for the development of exemplary practices. 5. In Alberta Education’s March 2012 School Evaluation Report of the Calgary Science School the following highlights were noted:

The school makes extensive use of collaboration and inquiry. Inquiry is seen as a “disposition” not just a teaching methodology. (p.28 #31) Collaboration is seen as a “hallmark” of the relationships in the Calgary Science School community and particularly within the professional learning experiences of the staff. Staff are encouraged to be producers of professional learning through “co-creating, co-labouring, co-teaching and co-reflecting”. (p. 37) Calgary Science School is a very positive, engaging and focused school community. All stakeholders are learners and work in collaborative ways within this caring school culture. As the collaboration yields results for enhanced teaching practice and improved student learning, there is an excitement to share the “good news”. This exciting good work has placed Calgary Science School at the centre of many innovative approaches to learning, leading and transforming. Describing Calgary Science School as a “hub” of the science of learning and exemplary teaching practices is not only well founded; it is well deserved. (p.44 #3) The school is using social media to enhance the teaching and learning in the school. Specifically, the school has established a blog called Connect!.

6. CSS has developed frameworks for promoting and supporting exemplary teaching, learning and leadership and a number of initiatives based on the framework are being implemented.

7. CSS is focusing on the development of leadership through programs and initiatives for administrators, teachers and students. 8. CSS has been involved in a number of research initiatives and partnerships including those with the Galileo Educational Network Association,

the Cross Conservation Area, Mount Royal University and the University of Calgary.


9. CSS has signed a memorandum of understanding to be designated as a University of Calgary Partner Research School. 10. CSS serves as a very active partner school for the teacher preparation programs including the University of Calgary, Mount Royal University

and the University of Lethbridge with over 125 student teachers spending some time in the school since the beginning of the current school year. 11. CSS is involved with the Rocky View School Division in a joint venture/partnership involving inter-jurisdictional funding from the Alberta

Initiative for School Improvement (AISI) and the University of Calgary. The focus is on teacher exchanges and the promotion of engaged thinking through inquiry.

12. CSS currently has close working relationships with the Galileo Educational Network, the University of Calgary, Mount Royal University, Apple Canada and the Calgary Regional Professional Development Consortium. Partnerships are being explored with other organizations through the External Collaboration Committee and the Professional Development and Collaboration Coordinator.

13. CSS has established a partnership with the Cross Conservation Area to involve teachers and students using the area as a living laboratory to conduct research projects. Work will continue on the proposal to establish the proposed Alberta Centre for Environmental and Outdoor Learning on the site.

14. The school is in the second year of a research project funded by the Board which is being conducted by Dr. Pam Adams from the University of Lethbridge entitled Re-Thinking Education in Alberta: Exploring a Framework for Enhancing Teaching, Leading and Learning

15. The provincial funding for education in recognition of the government’s close scrutiny on spending is likely to be very tight. 16. The model for funding education is based on the belief that the funding for programs and services for a given school year should be fully utilized

and that boards should not be building up large reserves. Alberta Education has indicated schools are unlikely to receive more funding unless surpluses are “used up” or kept to a level of approximately 10 days of expenses ($6M budget / 365 days x 10 = approx. $165,000)

17. The Calgary Science School Board of Directors has had a deficit budget for the past three years with the overall plan to reduce the operating surplus which currently is approximately $1.3 million. To date although there have been unanticipated expenditures such as $100,000 funding for school facility enhancement and $30,000 for fund development and communications consulting, the past school year is the first year in which there was an operating deficit (the expenses exceeded the revenue by $44,000) and the budget for the current school year makes provision for reducing the operating surplus by $250,000 through an operating deficit.

18. For the past four years the Board has decided to fund the Professional Collaboration Coordinator position (approximately $100,000). In the past a request for funding for this position was made to the Deputy Minister who indicated support for this type of initiative while acknowledging that there would not be any funding made available from Alberta Education at this time.

19. CSS has implemented a number of initiatives to enhance learning and teaching through technology including a successful one-to-one laptop initiative and is exploring further enhancements through the use of new technology and ensuring that all technology is being effectively utilized to its full potential. There is a need to undertake an assessment of how technology is being used and to develop a long-range plan for making appropriate technology and applications available for students and teachers.

20. Students, staff and parents find the outdoor education program very impactful by taking learning beyond the classroom, providing hands-on learning experiences, developing awareness of environmental issues and fostering relationship building, teambuilding and leadership development. There are some uncertainties regarding the long-term availability of sites currently being used. There are potential new


opportunities at the Laughingstock Ranch (Pincher Creek area), the Cross Conservation Area and the Banded Peak school reserve which should be explored further. As well there are other approaches including outdoor pursuits which should be incorporated into a long-range plan for the sustainability and enhancement of environmental and outdoor education program for the school.

21. The proposal for the Alberta Centre for Environmental and Outdoor learning developed through consultation with the Cross Conservation Area board continues to be enhanced and to have significant potential for the school as well as for educators throughout the province. Members of the CSS leadership team are actively involved in Alberta Education-funded project for school leadership development which is being facilitated by the Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools (TAAPCS)

22. Funding has been received from Enmax for the GenE program to add solar panels to the school. As well a number of other initiatives are being pursued to enhance the sustainability of the school and to demonstrate how other schools could become more sustainable and energy efficient.

23. In July 2012 the Board received approval from the Minister of Education for a 15 year charter (2012 to 2027) 24. The Board has made a request to Alberta Education to proceed with arranging for a 15 year lease on the current school facility to correspond

with the new charter. 25. Consideration is being given to expanding the realm of influence of the school, accommodating the large waiting list of prospective students and

enhancing the professional growth opportunities for current and future staff members through the establishment of a second campus for grades 4 to 9.

26. Consideration is also been given two exploring possibilities for partnership with another school jurisdiction for the establishment of a senior high school program which reflects the Calgary Science School vision, mission, guiding principles and goals.

27. The CSS website Connect! Blog with contributions from staff members, students and parents highlighting exemplars of exemplary learning, teaching and leading has received a great deal of attention with over 450 daily hits from worldwide sources.

28. CSS hosted the first ever Connect Ed Canada conference which attracted over 170 participants from various locations in Canada and the United States with a primary focus on the work of students and teachers in the school. Plans are in place to host the second Connect Ed Canada conference in May 2013.

29. The work of the CSS Professional Development and Collaboration Coordinator and the rich variety of initiatives to promote collaboration within the school and beyond has proven to be extremely successful.

30. In October 2012, the Calgary Science School was one of two Alberta school jurisdictions invited to make a presentation to the Deputy Minister of Education and senior Alberta Education leaders in which exemplary practices of the school were highlighted.

31. The Board contracted the services of a consultant to develop a communications plan. There are a number of initiatives in place to enhance communication through the school website and the use of social media.

32. A consultant has been hired to develop a logo for the school, describe a brand and articulate some possibilities for renaming the school.


The CSS Strategic Plan is guided by: • Our 15 year Charter, Guiding Principles, Vision and Mission Statements – these define our aspirations and our commitments to Alberta Education • Our three-year Education Plan – this document articulates our goals and measures around educational programming and initiatives relating to our charter mandate and addressing expectations established by Alberta Education. • Our Descriptors of Exemplary Learning, Teaching and Leadership- these descriptors define the unique nature of learning, teaching and leadership in the Calgary Science School and serve as frameworks for action. • Our commitment to focus on teacher engagement, which will result in a high level of student engagement. • Our desire to honour our role as a publicly-funded school and to develop exemplary practices that can be replicated in other schools CSS’ Guiding Principles • We value our unique culture characterized by a strong sense of caring, teamwork and mutual respect among our students, parents and staff members. • We strive to build on the sense in the Calgary Science School that, “this is a good place to be and we are all in this together” as a school community. • We commit to bringing learning to life and life to learning. • We promote innovation within an active, inquiry-based learning community. • We foster the authentic engagement of students and teachers as learners. • We embrace collaboration. We share what we do. We learn from others and others learn from us. We create relationships beyond the walls of our school to bring a positive benefit to our students and the broader educational community. • We provide leadership in the transformation of education to bring a positive benefit to our students and the broader educational community.


CSS’ Vision: Preparing our students as extraordinary citizens CSS’ Mission: Promote innovation and the ongoing development of exemplary learning, teaching and leadership practices within an active inquiry-based learning community CSS’ Charter Goals 1. Promote exemplary learning, teaching and leading through a disposition of inquiry. 2. Enhance learning and teaching through the appropriate and effective use of technology and maintain an intentional, authentic and innovative perspective in the use of technology. 3. Engage students in meaningful, real-life learning activities in a variety of rich learning environments, with a focus on mind, body, emotions, creative spirit and ethical citizenship. 4. Provide environmental, outdoor and global education learning opportunities for students to experience and appreciate the world outside of the classroom and to develop social, leadership and stewardship skills. 5. Foster a culture of collaboration and caring relationships of mutual respect with students, staff members and parents sharing a passion for learning; together and from others, in the classroom, within the school and beyond. 6. Nurture thriving classrooms and other learning environments where teachers are informed by research and where students and teachers explore and develop deep understanding as active researchers. The Strategic Plan focuses on four key areas to support the Charter Goals:

A. to provide leadership in exemplary learning, teaching and leading B. to lead, share and transform through research initiatives and active partnerships C. to ensure sustainability and continued development and enrichment of programming over the long term D. to implement effective communication strategies to promote the involvement of the Calgary Science School in leading, sharing and transformi


Calgary Science School Strategic Plan 2013 Lead Share Transform Key Focus Areas and Action Strategies A. Providing Leadership in Exemplary Learning, Teaching and Leading Focus Area The Calgary Science School will lead, share and transform through the development and implementation of exemplary teaching and leadership practices to promote exemplary learning to benefit the students we serve and to impact learning, teaching and leading beyond our school. Action Strategy Measures 1. The 2012 – 2015 three-year education plan, which is based on the six CSS charter goals, will serve as a framework for action.

The degree of success in achieving the related outcomes and measures will be documented in the Annual Educational Results report November 2013.

2. The CSS school community will promote collaboration in the classroom, throughout the school and with other teachers, school jurisdictions and those involved in the work of our schools.

Documentation of collaboration will include the use of the student and staff collaboration rubrics and reports prepared by the Professional Development and Collaboration Coordinator and Learning Coaches.

3. To lead, share and transform appropriate resources and incentives will be provided and teacher recruitment and professional learning initiatives will focus on hiring the best teachers available and helping all teachers on staff to develop to their fullest potential in keeping with the expectations outlined in the CSS Exemplary learning, teaching and leadership frameworks. Succession plans will be developed and implemented for school leadership positions.

Documentation of the success of initiatives such as: the Research and Innovation projects; the teacher short-term exchange project; initiatives to develop a pool of prospective exemplary teachers; informal school leadership development programs, succession plans and professional learning initiatives.

4. The school leadership team will implement processes for working directly with teachers to enhance instructional leadership in the school.

Documentation of school leadership team member involvement in: classroom visits and other instructional leadership approaches to support and assist teachers; completion of teacher evaluations and informal recognition in keeping with Board policy; working with teachers to make their professional learning plan a living document; blogging, assisting teachers with blog preparation and responding to blogs on the school website and other strategies to purposely provide instructional leadership.


5. The External Collaboration Committee, members of the school leadership team and the Professional Development and Collaboration Coordinator will develop a plan for Board approval to have CSS serve as a crucible for change and innovation and a catalyst in the development of a network of school jurisdictions (interconnected nodes) dedicated to effectively implementing the Alberta Education Inspiring Education transformation agenda.

Documentation of the successful implementation of the plan.

6. The school leadership team will work with the Professional Development and Collaboration Coordinator and Learning Coaches to develop a plan to support and assist teachers in using the charter goals and exemplary learning, teaching and leading descriptors as a framework for research, innovation, collaboration and improving teaching practices and sharing best practices with others.

Appropriate documentation of the work of the leadership team members and learning coaches as instructional leaders in promoting exemplary learning, teaching and leading.

B. Leading, Sharing and Transforming through Research Initiatives and Active Partnerships Focus Area The Calgary Science School will lead, share and transform through fostering research initiatives and building research capacity to inform teaching practices to benefit our students in keeping with the Alberta Education mandate that charter schools to be centres of research and innovation. The research and innovation initiatives will be enhanced through partnerships with universities, Alberta Education and other individuals and community organizations. Action Strategy Measures 1. The school leadership team will work with Dr. Pamela Adams and members of the teaching staff to complete by June 30, 2013 the second year of the two-year CSS project Re-thinking Education in Alberta: Exploring a Framework for Enhancing Teaching, Leading and Learning. As well, key findings from the research will be shared within the school and with other school jurisdictions and will be used to inform instructional leadership practices. The school leadership team will work with staff to identify action strategies arising from the two-year research project and outlining research priorities for the future.

Documentation of the research findings and the implementation of related action strategies.

2. Funding will continue to be allocated for staff members to conduct Research and Innovation projects and enhancements will be made to the program to promote the sharing of research findings within the school and beyond.

Documentation of the successful completion of the Research and Innovation projects and the implementation of strategies related to the projects for enhancing learning, teaching and leading.


3. School staff members will be actively involved in undertaking research initiatives designed to support the CSS charter goals and enhance learning and teaching including research projects implemented in collaboration as a University of Calgary Partner Research School.

Documentation of Partner Research School and other research projects.

4. CSS will provide leadership through the Alberta Initiative on School Improvement (AISI) research project to develop a student learner profile prototype which can be used to document an individualized learner growth plan for each student.

Documentation of the successful completion of this initiative and the use of the prototype to promote success for all learners.

5. CSS will share expertise with the Cross Conservation Area board and staff to promote the use of the area as a living laboratory and to pursue successful implementation of the proposal to establish the Alberta Centre for Environmental and Outdoor Learning.

Documentation of projects and progress in achieving these joint venture goals.

6. Through the Professional Development and Collaboration Coordinator and the External Collaboration Committee, CSS will develop and implement strategies to promote partnerships with agencies and organizations and the involvement of outside experts to enrich learning experiences within the school.

Documentation of successful partnerships and the involvement of outside experts in the work of the school.

7. CSS will take a leadership role through The Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools (TAAPCS) to promote the role of charter schools as centres of research, innovation and the development of exemplary practices.

Documentation in the TAAPCS research project of the role of charter schools and anecdotal evidence of the impact of CSS to promote research, innovation and the development of exemplary practices.

C. Ensure sustainability and continued development and enrichment of programming over the long term Focus Area A large part of the success of CSS has been due to the quality of its programming. The granting of a fifteen year charter now permits long-range planning. CSS will engage in longer term planning that will ensure the high quality of programming can be sustained over the long term. Action Strategy Measures 1. Administration will develop a five year plan for programming that includes both technology and outdoor education components, to identify the long-term facility and financial resources that may be required. The plan will be used for discussion purposes with the Board and will help inform prioritization of initiatives going forward. See also C2.

Administration completion of five year plan. Board discussion of five year plan. Establishment of key priorities.

2. CSS will review how to best use technology to continue to enhance learning and teaching; to identify how to better equip students and teachers to maximize the opportunities afforded by the

Documentation of the completion of a long-range technology plan and the successful


use of technology and to support development of a long-range technology plan which will outline new directions for technology use.

implementation of action strategies.

3. To ensure the ongoing sustainability of the CSS Outdoor Education Program and to explore opportunities to enhance the existing program, a comprehensive plan will be developed and specific reference will be made to the sustainability of existing facilities and the viability of use of alternate sites for the program.

Documentation of the completion of the outdoor, environmental and plan and successful implementation of action strategies.

4. CSS will implement initiatives with the ultimate goal for the school to serve as a living laboratory and to develop energy conservation strategies which can be used to inform sustainability plans and possibly be replicated in other schools.

Documentation of the successful implementation of strategies relating to the sustainability of the school facility.

5. CSS will actively pursue arrangements for a 15 year lease for the Clem Gardner facility with the Calgary Board of Education to correspond with the 15 year charter as outlined in the December 12, 2012 letter sent to Alberta Education. This request reflects the length of the CSS charter and would ensure continued access to suitable facilities for the school. A longer term lease would also justify proposed capital improvements.

Documentation of the 15 year lease agreement

6. CSS will continually pursue arrangements for a suitable (based on CSS program requirements and high-level criteria) second facility (campus) to provide a middle school program (grades 4 to 9) in keeping with the current charter guiding principles, vision, mission and goals.

Documentation of successfully arranging for an appropriate second facility as outlined in the January 25, 2013 letter sent to Alberta Education.

D. Implementing Effective Communication Strategies to Promote the Involvement of the Calgary Science School in Leading, Sharing and Transforming Focus Area CSS will use informal communication strategies and develop and implement a formal communications plan to support the promotion of the school as an active contributor to a collaborative network of schools with the shared goal of promoting exemplary learning, teaching and leadership. Action Strategy Measures 1. The Communications Committee, school leadership team, Communications Coordinator and the Professional Development and Collaboration Coordinator will work collaboratively in formalizing and implementing a communications plan which includes: enhancing the school website and Connect! Blog; enhancing the use of social media to present the CSS story; implementing strategies to showcase the charter and the involvement of the staff, board, School Council in the work of the school; implementing strategies for the effective use of the new school logo; developing recommendations for the branding and renaming of the school; implementing a marketing strategy and clarifying roles and responsibilities related to communication.

Documentation of the successful development and implementation of a communications plan.


2. Develop strategies to promote involvement of staff, students and parents as contributors to and active participants in the CSS Connect! Blog and other strategies to share the CSS story and to promote collaboration within the school and beyond.

Documentation of the number of hits on the school website and the response to initiatives to promote collaboration beyond the school.

3. Members of the Board, administration and school staff will continue to serve as key communicators and will place a high priority on establishing positive working relationships and networks with Alberta Education, universities, school jurisdictions and other partners in education in fulfilling the mandate of the strategic plan to lead, share and transform.

Documentation of the successful implementation of strategies related to leading, sharing and transforming.


Attachment “B” Calgary Science School Superintendent/Leadership Team Report Board of Directors Meeting-‐February 19, 2013

1. Calgary Science School Science Fair and Explorer Inquiries-‐ One of the 16 descriptors of One of the 16 descriptors of Exemplary Teaching in the Calgary Science School makes reference to a research focus where classrooms are thriving places of active research and teachers and students are learning together and from each other. Another descriptor highlights a focus on inquiry where students and teachers explore real-‐life questions to develop a better understanding of our world. These two descriptors and several others in the exemplary learning and teaching frameworks were very much in evidence over the past several weeks as teachers facilitated the involvement of their students in researching a variety of significant questions and topics and sharing their findings through displays and presentations. In addition to sharing through classroom open houses, representatives of grade 5 to 9 students were selected to participate in the school Science Fair on February 6. Commendations are extended to the organizers of this event -‐ Mr. Kevin Sonico and Ms. Erin Couillard -‐ for all of their work in organizing the Science Fair and making arrangements for over 30 volunteer judges and the very impressive displays of the student inquiries in the gymnasium. The judges spent the morning interviewing the students, providing feedback, determining award winners and selecting those who would go on to the city Science Fair competition. In the afternoon all of the CSS students and the general public had an opportunity to view the displays and talk to students about their inquiries. There were many comments praising the creativity, innovativeness and quality of work of the students, which was most representative of the Calgary Science School descriptors of exemplary learning and teaching. The active involvement of teachers as facilitators and mentors is greatly appreciated and congratulations are extended to all of the students who participated in the Science Fair and explorer activities.

2. Charter School Research and Leadership Development-‐The Calgary Science School as one of the 13 charter schools in the province and a member of the Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools is involved in a research project designed to investigate the role of charter schools and the impact of charter schools on education in Alberta as centres of research, innovation and the development of exemplary practices. The researchers Dr. Dianne Gereluk and Dr. Eugene Kowch who are professors from the University of Calgary, have been conducting interviews and gathering information in regard to the work of each charter school. They were in the Calgary Science School on January 24 to interview Dr. McKinnon and they will be conducting further interviews in the school in the future.

3. Calgary Science School Research Initiatives-‐The Calgary Science School as a University of Calgary Partner Research School is working in partnership with the Rocky View School Division in developing a research proposal which will involve University of Calgary faculty in studying the involvement of CSS teachers and administrators in a joint venture with Rocky View teachers and administrators in collaboratively developing a deeper understanding of strategies for engaging students as learners


through inquiry.

4. Student Teacher Initiatives in the Calgary Science School-‐The Calgary Science School actively seeks out opportunities to serve as a partner school for student teachers. In the first half of the school year there have been over 120 student teachers from the University of Calgary, Mount Royal University and the University of Lethbridge in the school to learn about the unique approach to learning and teaching in the Calgary Science School in keeping with its charter mandate. On February 14, 10 student teachers from the University of Calgary will be spending an eight week period in the school as they complete their practicum requirements prior to certification. As well there is a student teacher from the University of Lethbridge who came to the school following the winter break to complete her final semester of teacher preparation.

5. 2013 – 14 School Year Budget Preparation-‐Preliminary work has begun on identifying needs and priorities for the next school year and the process of developing a proposed budget through the Audit and Finance committee will begin in early March when the Alberta Education funding is announced following the presentation of the provincial budget in the legislature.

6. Staff Retreat-‐We have a couple of activities planned for the retreat that will allow teachers to focus on key areas of our operation. We will spend some time Thursday morning to take a look at student learning profiles and how we can continue to evolve them. The afternoon will be focused on collaboration and communication; teachers will use our collaboration framework (the outcome of Ivy Waite’s research and innovation project last year) to analyze the level of collaboration amongst the teaching staff, and we’ll take a look at how teachers are using their class websites to communicate with parents. Friday morning is all about our 6 school goals, where Dan will take us through a process to examine each goal and to look at how we are gauging our success in each of the goals. The afternoon will be focused on team building and just having fun with our colleagues.

7. Admissions Process for 2013-‐2014-‐Our admissions process began at the end of January with open house presentations for the first 200 families on the grade 4 waitlist (plus a few students from the waitlists for the other grades as well). There was a great turnout, with approximately 350 people attending the two sessions. We have since held two school tours for those same families, where CSS students acted as tour guides for small groups of parents. The first day of tours was a Saturday, but the second was during a regular school day. Our student tour guides did an incredible job of helping prospective CSS parents learn more about our school so they can make an informed decision about whether to send their child here. Kathy, Nola, Susan and our caretaking staff have been invaluable in making the open houses and school tours so successful.

8. Staffing for 2013-‐2014-‐We will be asking teachers in the next two weeks to identify whether they wish to change their teaching assignment, or if they have any other plans that might affect the status of their contract. This is an important part of the budget process and one that will help us let our current staff who are on temporary contracts know whether there may be openings for them next year.


Attachment “C” Calgary Science School

Board Meeting February 19, 2013


Financial Statements The year to date results for January 2013 include a deficit for the year of $47,000, which gives CSS a positive variance of $150,000 compared to the budget. The largest variance areas were: Alberta Education grants which have been paid in advance $34,000, net fundraising revenue in school generated funds not spent yet $23,000, payroll expenses related to EI and CPP contributions timing differences $20,000, facilities enhancements of $49,000 which are slated for the student/staff lounge/study hall and other enhancements and transportation expenses timing differences of $20,000. Meeting with Grant Thornton On February 7, 2013 we met with Ms. Somjee and Mr. Critchley from Grant Thornton to discuss strategies regarding transitioning to the new PSA standards which are required for the year ending August 31, 2013. We will meet in early May to review a transitioning document which reviews how each balance sheet account will be treated under the new standards for the comparative year of August 31, 2012. In addition treatment of leases under the current operating method vs. the capital method will be compared to understand how the financial statements would have been impacted had the capital lease method been used. Meeting with Charter Schools ST’s and Lloyd Sadd On February 12, 2013 the charter schools secretary treasurer’s met with Lloyd Sadd and received an insurance update. The only remaining policy to be transitioned to Lloyd Sadd is our property insurance policy, which will be moved over in July 2013. We discussed the valuation of assets for insurance purposes, perhaps having a company value them again depending on the price we could get for all the charter schools. There is a risk management conference May 15th in Edmonton, hosted by Lloyd Sadd, which I will be attending on behalf of the Calgary Science School. TAAPCS Meeting The next TAAPCS meeting will be held on May 2 (evening) and May 3 (all day) in Stoney Plain Alberta, about 17 km west of Edmonton. For those of you who have not been there before, Stoney Plain has about 15,000 residents and has more than 30 breathtaking murals, created by artists across Canada. Please let me know if you are interested in attending the meetings. Respectfully submitted, Myra Penberthy

Calgary Science School Society Board Meeting March 19, 2013

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March 19, 2013 at the Calgary Science School

Board members present: Wendy Baillie (Vice Chair), Luana Comin-‐Sartor, Lindsay Hogan, Denise Kitagawa, Dr. Ashley Nixon, Gavin Peat, Dale Ronsky, Debra Scott and Dr. Norm Vaughan. Board members absent: Harold Lemieux (Chair), Lorraine Chan, Stephanie Davis, Allison Earl and Chas Filipski. Staff present: Dr. Garry McKinnon (Superintendent), Darrell Lonsberry (Principal), Phil Butterfield (Assistant Principal) and Myra Penberthy (Secretary Treasurer). Mr. Glen Kayler from RedPhone Inc. made a presentation on branding, renaming and the new school logo. His work involved an inclusive brand, focusing on the unique aspects of the Calgary Science School. The proposed new name and tagline for the school is “Collabria”, engage, inspire & discover. Appreciation was was expressed to Mr. Kayler and the Communications Committee for the work that was done in developing this proposal for further consideration by the Board and the members of the Calgary Science School community. Board Vice Chair Wendy Baillie declared a quorum and called the meeting to order at 6:25 p.m. Motion 69.12 by Denise Kitagawa, THAT the agenda be approved. Carried Motion 70.12 by Tim Edwards,

THAT the minutes of February 19, 2013 board meeting be approved. Carried

The draft budget overview was presented by the administration team and the Audit & Finance committee, (Attachment “A”). Each budget overview point was discussed thoroughly by the Board. The next step will be to further refine the budget proposal based on feedback from the Board and to present the proposal for further consideration at the April meeting of the Board of Directors. There was also discussion regarding setting the fees for the 2013/14 school year (Attachment “B”) Motion 71.12 by Debra Scott, THAT the Board approve the Calgary Science School 2013-‐14 school fees which includes:

Enrichment $475, Transportation $785, Lunchroom $50 and Laptop Insurance $60. Carried Communications Committee, Lindsay Hogan

• The committee met twice with Glen Kaylor from RedPhone to review the proposed new name, logo and branding.

• The name Collabria has been secured as an Internet domain name (Collabria.ca). • Responses to the name and logo from all stakeholders are very important. • Ms. Hogan will provide the document which was developed with the name and logo in order to

share with staff, students and parents and to elicit their feedback. • The board will discuss the process and next steps in regard to the proposed new name at the April

board meeting. Secretary Treasurer’s Report and Audit & Finance Committee, Myra Penberthy and Luana Comin-‐Sartor

• The audit and finance committee report is attached (Attachment “C”). • Ms. Comin-‐Sartor discussed the draft and rewrite of the Disclosure ( Whistleblower) policy which

will be going to the school operations committee for further consideration.


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School Operations Committee, Denise Kitagawa

• The school operations committee and new members had a full day policy review meeting on March 5, 2013.

• The committee will meet again in April and it is anticipated that approximately 20 policies will be revised and brought to the board in May.


• Mr. Lonsberry, Mr. Ronsky and Mr. Edwards attended a facilities meeting with the other charter schools and the CBE which was very beneficial.

• The committee is reviewing several initiatives for enhancing the school facility and making the facility more energy-‐efficient.

External Collaboration Committee, Dr. Norm Vaughan • The External Collaboration Committee is revising the terms of reference for the committee for

presentation to the Board. • Mr. Dan McWilliam gave a review of the external collaboration activities at the meeting. • The committee will be meeting on April 9 with Mr. Greg Shyba regarding the Cross Conservation

Area project and proposal to develop the Alberta Centre for Environmental and Outdoor Learning.

School Council, Denise Kitagawa • The March parent social was well attended and enjoyed by all.

Leadership Team Report, Dr. Garry McKinnon, Darrell Lonsberry, Phil Butterfield & Scott Petronech

• The overview of the proposal for the Alberta Centre for Environmental and Outdoor Learning was tabled until the next meeting.

Governance Committee, Wendy Machen Baillie

• Three parents have shown an interest in learning more about the possibility of serving on the Board of Directors. The process to approve parent board directors was discussed and will be revisited in April.

• May 7, 2013 will be the school council AGM. There will be an election for a representative to serve on on the Board of Directors.

Motion 72.12 by Debra Scott,

THAT the Board accept with regret the resignation of Ms. Lorraine Chan as Director of the Calgary Science School Society Board. Carried

Motion 73.12 by Denise Kitagawa, THAT the Board approve the continued involvement of Ms. Lorraine Chan as a member of the communications committee. Carried

Research & Innovation Committee, Dr. Norm Vaughan • Four research and innovation projects are currently underway.

Motion 74.12 by Gavin Peat, THAT the meeting terminate at 8:30 p.m. Carried __________________________ Wendy Baillie, Board Vice Chair


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Attachment “A” Calgary Science School March 7, 2013 2013/14 Budget Overview Alberta Education Funding

1. The overall funding for 2013/14 from Alberta Education is reduced by $127,000 (2.5%). 2. AISI funding is eliminated effective April 1, 2013 with the impact being a reduction for the

current school year of $22,000 and no funding for 2013/14 school year. 3. The Fuel subsidy for transportation is eliminated effective April 1, 2013 by $14,000 and

there will be no funding for the 2013/14 school year. 4. The funding for School boards administration will be reduced by $37,000 (10%). 5. ESL funding – we have applied for 31 students $34,000 for the current school year and have

not received confirmation as yet. Under the new structure the eligibility has changed and only 9 students will be eligible for funding in 2013/14.

6. Equity of Opportunity funding has been reduced for 2013/14 from $94,000 to $61,000. 7. Funding is based on a zero percent increase for all staff, however the teaching staff grid

increase of $69,000 will not be funded by Alberta Education. 8. Inclusive practices funding ($34,000) will remain at the same level as last year in spite of a

case being made for charter schools to be funded at the same level as other public schools. If this were the case we would receive approximately $200,000 in additional funding for programs to address individual student learning needs.

Calgary Science School Financial Projections 2012/13

1. Over the past 3 years there have been deficit budgets with the understanding that the accumulated operating surplus would be reduced. Up to the current year, the overall reduction in operating surplus has been ($45,000). Taking into consideration the current funding reductions from Alberta Education and projecting the status of the financial statements for August 31, 2013, it is anticipated that the deficit will be $300,000 including an allocation for facility enhancement of $100,000 and $6,000 for consulting fees to Redphone for the development of a new logo and re-‐naming / re-‐branding of the school. It is anticipated that the operating surplus at the end of this school year will be $1,062,000.

Budget Proposals for 2013/14

1. Parent Fees will remain at the same level as 2012/13 except for the transportation fee which will increase from $760 due to cancellation of the fuel subsidy: Enrichment $475 Transportation $785 Lunchroom $50 Laptop Insurance $60

2. Teaching and other staff levels will remain the same. There will be 0% increases for staff salaries other than increases for those teaching staff members who move to another level on the salary grid for a total of $69,000 (refer to the grid attached).

3. The existing budget allocations for teacher resources and other discretionary expenses appear to be appropriate and will remain unchanged with the exception of electives.

4. Technology – in order to maintain our one to one program of laptops and IPads, it will be necessary to purchase 100 new laptops for $100,000. It is proposed to use $50,000 from the CSS Parent Fundraising Society for the purchase of 50 laptops.

5. A new arrangement through a service plan, for computer support services (OSI) will reduce the expenses from $120,000 to $90,000.

6. It is proposed to once again fund a professional development and collaboration coordinator position and to add a .5 FTE position for a total cost of $165,000. This role is fundamental to


4

achieving the desired outcomes to our strategic plan and for meeting our mandate as a charter school. This is the only proposed increase in the staffing allocation over 2012/13.

7. It is proposed to eliminate the communications coordinator position for a savings of $25,000. Members of the administration team, support staff, some members of the teaching staff, the professional development and collaborative coordinators and other volunteers will take on some of the responsibilities of the communications coordinator role.

8. Facilities – A decision will have to be made in regards to the budgetary allocation to facilities. There has been a concern regarding spending money on the facility prior to signing a 15-‐ year lease. It is anticipated that a significant amount of work will be done on the roof this summer by the CBE. There is an opportunity to install solar tubes which is part of the $100,000 from the current school year budget and $20,000 has been allocated for 2013/14 facility projects.

9. The Audit and Finance committee is considering the current budget draft and has recommended that $350,000 be taken from the operating surplus to deal with the additional costs and reduced revenues.

10. If the board proceeds with plans for a new logo and renaming the school it is anticipated that there would be an approximate cost of $27,000 for signage, stationary, communications etc. A provision has been made for these costs in the budget proposal.

11. In order to have a balanced budget for the 2013/14 school year with no deficit the following action strategies would be considered:

a) Eliminate the professional development and collaboration coordinator full time and .5 positions: $165,000 b) Facilities enhancements $20,000 c) Reduction in school maintenance costs $30,000 d) Non classroom teaching positions reductions $120,000 e) Research and innovation $10,000

Total $345,000 12. Action strategies proposed for increasing revenue:

a) Increase school rental rates b) Charge a fee for service and cost recovery for presenters and PD facilitators

representing CSS c) Increase donations to the school d) Provide specialized CSS professional development for a fee.


Attachment “B”

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6

CSS Transportation Fee Schedule 2013 – 2014

• The annual fee is $785.00, $100.00 is non-‐refundable. • CSS does not offer reduced fees for part time riding. • The fee is reduced for 3rd siblings. The fee for the first two siblings is $785.00

each. For any other sibling, the fee is $195.00. CSS staff members are charged $195 per child.

• The annual fee increases to $885 on April 16, 2013 and $200 of this is non-‐refundable.

• Families who are offered spots at CSS after April 16 pay no penalty if they register for transportation immediately.

• The full fee is due at the time of registration. • A refund is pro-‐rated for withdrawal by March 31, 2014. • The fee is pro-‐rated for service starting after Oct 1, 2013. • Temporary transportation is offered at the rate of $7.00/day up to a maximum of

20 days per year. Attachment “C”

Calgary Science School Board Meeting March 19, 2013


Financial Statements The year to date results for February 2013 include a deficit for the year of $50,500, which gives CSS a positive variance of $192,000 compared to the budget. The largest variance areas were: Alberta Education grants which have been paid in advance $59,000, outdoor education revenue timing differences $13,000, net fundraising revenue in school generated funds not spent yet $16,000, payroll expenses related to EI and CPP contributions timing differences $13,000, facilities enhancements of $48,000 which are slated for the student/staff lounge/study hall and other enhancements, transportation expenses timing differences of $16,000 and enrichment expenses timing differences $27,000. Audit & Finance Committee Meeting On March 6, 2013 the Audit & Finance committee met to review the draft budget for the 2013-‐14 school year. The detailed draft budget was reviewed in conjunction with this year’s budget and projections along with August 31, 2012 financial statements. It was decided that a deficit of $350,000 would be brought to the March 16, 2013 Board meeting as a narrative. The new disclosure (whistleblower) policy was also reviewed and Ms. Comin-‐Sartor made some suggestions regarding revisions to the policy. The policy will go to the School Operations committee for presentation to the Board which will likely occur at the May 21, 2013 board meeting. Respectfully submitted, Myra Penberthy

Calgary Science School Society Board Meeting April 16, 2013

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April 16, 2013 at the Calgary Science School

Board members present: Wendy Baillie (Vice Chair), Luana Comin-‐Sartor, Stephanie Davis, Chas Filipski, Denise Kitagawa, Dr. Ashley Nixon, Gavin Peat, Dale Ronsky and Debra Scott. Board members absent: Harold Lemieux (Chair), Allison Earl, Lindsay Hogan and Dr. Norm Vaughan. Staff present: Dr. Garry McKinnon (Superintendent), Darrell Lonsberry (Principal), Phil Butterfield (Assistant Principal) and Myra Penberthy (Secretary Treasurer). Teachers from the Calgary Science School, Jessica Kelly (Gr. 4), Erin Couillard (Gr. 5), Jason Publack (Gr. 9) and Andrew Bolen (music), presented teacher and student feedback in regards to proposed renaming of the Calgary Science School. Generally there were mixed reviews on the name “Collabria” as a new school name. A name change was supported but not necessarily “Collabria” as the preferred choice. Board Vice Chair Wendy Baillie declared a quorum and called the meeting to order at 6:14 p.m. Motion 75.12 by Luana Comin-‐Sartor, THAT the agenda be approved. Carried Motion 76.12 by Debra Scott,

THAT the minutes of March 19, 2013 board meeting be approved. Carried

The refined budget proposal based on feedback from the Board at the March 19, 2013 board meeting was reviewed by the administration team (Attachment “A”). The February 28, 2013 quarterly financial statements including the statement of financial position, operating statement and variance analysis of actual results to budget were reviewed and discussed. Motion 77.12 by Stephanie Davis,

THAT the Board approve the February 28, 2013 quarterly financial statements. Carried Communications Committee, discussion on the name change.

• The process in regards to moving forward with the name change was discussed. • The committee was asked to come back with a process on how to proceed. • The Communications Committee was commended on the excellent work they did on the logo and

the process of considering a renaming of the school. • There has been tremendous value in the process of developing a proposal for renaming the school

and providing opportunities for members of the school community to share their feelings about the proposal.

• It was suggested that the Communications Committee should articulate the reasons for pursuing a renaming of the school and should consider the feedback generated through the consultative process in identifying a strategy for continuing the process of considering renaming possibilities.

• The Communications Committee was asked to suggest a process for implementing the new logo which has been well received.


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Leadership Team Report, Dr. Garry McKinnon, Darrell Lonsberry, Phil Butterfield & Scott Petronech • The overview of the proposal for the Alberta Centre for Environmental and Outdoor Learning was

reviewed. • See Attachment “B” for the leadership team report.

Research & Innovation Committee, Dr. Norm Vaughan

• No report. External Collaboration Committee, Dr. Norm Vaughan

• The committee met on April 9 with Mr. Greg Shyba regarding the Cross Conservation Area project and proposal to develop the Alberta Centre for Environmental and Outdoor Learning. The work is ongoing.

School Council, Denise Kitagawa • No meeting in April, the Annual General Meeting of the School Council will take place on May 7,

2013. • The parent survey will be sent out by April 26th.

School Operations Committee, Stephanie Davis

• April 24, 2013 is the next meeting date for the committee and it is anticipated that approximately 20 policies will be reviewed and recommendations will be brought the board in May.

• The two teacher representatives on the committee Margaret Leland and Jason Publack have provided excellent input in the process of reviewing and developing policies.


• No committee meeting in the last month. • Mr. Ronsky and Mr. Edwards toured schools regarding skylight additions in classrooms and the

library. • There has been asbestos abatement in two classrooms over spring break.

Governance Committee, Wendy Baillie

• The committee reviewed the process for electing parent board members. • The staff recognition lunch hosted by the board is planned for June 21, 2013.

Secretary Treasurer’s Report and Audit & Finance Committee, Myra Penberthy and Luana Comin-‐Sartor

• The Audit and Finance committee met on April 11, 2013. • The budget proposal for the 2013-‐14 budget year was reviewed including the Alberta Education

budget report which will be approved at the May board meeting. • The February 28, 2013 quarterly financial statements were reviewed.

Motion 78.12 by Chas Filipski, THAT the meeting terminate at 8:15 p.m. Carried __________________________ Wendy Baillie, Board Vice Chair


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Attachment “A” Calgary Science School April 16, 2013 2013/14 Budget Overview #2 Alberta Education Funding

1. The overall funding for 2013/14 from Alberta Education is reduced by $127,000 (2.5%). 2. AISI funding is eliminated effective April 1, 2013 with the impact being a reduction for the

current school year of $22,000 and no funding for 2013/14 school year. 3. The Fuel subsidy for transportation is eliminated effective April 1, 2013 by $14,000 and

there will be no funding for the 2013/14 school year. 4. The funding for School boards administration will be reduced by $37,000 (10%). 5. ESL funding – we have applied for 31 students $34,000 for the current school year and have

not received confirmation as yet. Under the new structure the eligibility has changed and only 9 students will be eligible for funding in 2013/14.

6. Equity of Opportunity funding has been reduced for 2013/14 from $94,000 to $61,000. 7. Funding is based on a zero percent increase for all staff, however the teaching staff grid

increase of $69,000 will not be funded by Alberta Education. 8. Inclusive practices funding will remain at the same level as last year in spite of a case being

made for charter schools to be funded at the same level as other public schools. If this were the case we would receive approximately $200,000 in additional funding for programs to address individual student learning needs.

Calgary Science School Financial Projections 2012/13

1. Over the past 3 years there have been deficit budgets with the understanding that the accumulated operating surplus would be reduced. Up to the current year, the overall reduction in operating surplus has been ($45,000). Taking into consideration the current funding reductions from Alberta Education and projecting the status of the financial statements for August 31, 2013, it is anticipated that the deficit will be $200,000 including an allocation for facility enhancement of $60,000 and $6,000 for consulting fees to Redphone for the development of a new logo and re-‐naming / re-‐branding of the school. It is anticipated that the operating surplus at the end of this school year will be $1,162,000.

2. Through the years the operating surplus has been as follows: 2002/03 - $152,140; 2003/04 - $570,958; 2004/05 - $720,343; 2005/06 - $720,343; 2006/07 - $780,494; 2007/08 - $1,097,709; 2008/09 - $1,358,015; 2009/10 - $1,374,061; 2010/11 -$1,407,209 2011/12 - $1,362,373. Budget Proposals for 2013/14

1. Parent Fees will remain at the same level as 2012/13 except for the transportation fee which will increase from $760 due to cancellation of the fuel subsidy: Enrichment $475 Transportation $785 Lunchroom $50 Laptop Insurance $60

2. All staff salaries will be frozen other than increases for those teaching staff members who move to another level on the salary grid for a total of $69,000.

3. The existing budget allocations for teacher resources and other discretionary expenses appear to be appropriate and will remain unchanged with the exception of electives.

4. Technology – in order to maintain our one to one program of laptops and IPads, it will be necessary to purchase 100 new IPads for $75,000.

5. A new arrangement through a service plan, for computer support services (OSI) will reduce the expenses from $120,000 to $90,000.


4

6. It is proposed to continue to fund a Collaboration and Communication Leader position for a cost of $100,000.

7. The current teaching staff allocation for 2012/13 is 35.15 FTE and the proposed staffing for 2013/14 is 35.775 FTE. The increase of .625 is due to .6FTE Inclusive Practices coach which will be funded through Inclusive Education funding and ESL funding, .4 FTE for a Collaboration and Communication Leader, which is offset with cost savings of .4FTE due to reallocation of staff and 1.0 Educational Assistant (non-‐certificated support staff position) which is funded through a grant application for a severe needs student.

8. Facilities – A decision will have to be made in regards to the budgetary allocation to facilities. There has been a concern regarding spending money on the facility prior to signing a 15-‐ year lease. It is anticipated that a significant amount of work will be done on the roof this summer by the CBE. There is an opportunity to install solar tubes which is part of the $60,000 from the current school year budget and $60,000 has been allocated for 2013/14 facility projects.

9. The Audit and Finance committee is considering the current budget draft and has recommended that $394,000 be taken from the operating surplus to deal with the additional costs and reduced revenues.

10. In order to have a balanced budget for the 2013/14 school year with no deficit the following action strategies would be considered:

a) Eliminate the Collaboration Communication Leader positions (1.4FTE) : $150,000. b) Facilities enhancements $60,000

c) Reduction in school maintenance costs $24,000 d) Non classroom teaching positions reductions $108,000 f) Eliminate educational assistant position $30,000 e) Reduce research and innovation $10,000 f) Reduce system administration by $12,000

Total $394,000 11. In addition to the action strategies outlined in 10, consideration will be given to revenue

generating action strategies including the following: a) Increase school rental rates b) Charge a fee for service and cost recovery for presenters and PD facilitators representing CSS

c) Increase donations to the school d) Provide specialized CSS professional development for a fee. e) Increase student enrollment


Attachment “B” Calgary Science School Superintendent/Leadership Team Report Board of Directors Meeting-April 16, 2013

1. Calgary Science School -Parents as Partners- One of the 16 descriptors of Exemplary Teaching in the Calgary Science School makes reference to parents as partners in which the school meaningfully involves parents in the education of their children. We recognize that the school would not exist if it were not for the commitment of the parents of the students to have their children attend the Calgary Science School. The tremendous commitment of the parents is reflected in the special effort to register their children for grade 4 when they are in kindergarten, the sacrifices that are made to have students from all quadrants of the city transported to the school, the tremendous support which is shown by parents through volunteering countless hours to support school programs and the ongoing support which is shown by parents for the work of the school. Each year the School Council gathers feedback from parents through a comprehensive survey. As well, the superintendent on an annual basis conducts informal interviews of approximately 50 parents during the March student-led/parent-teacher conferences with a focus on two questions: “What causes you to believe the Calgary Science School is a very good school and what suggestions would you have for improvement?” The feedback from the parent surveys and interviews as well as ongoing informal communication processes such as the Dialogue with Darrell sessions at School Council meetings is used to establish action strategies and to guide the process of developing a budget for the next school year. As well, over the next few weeks all students as class groups and all staff will be invited to respond to the same two questions.

2. Charter School Research and Leadership Development-The Calgary Science School as one of the 13 charter schools in the province and a member of the Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools is involved in a research project designed to investigate the role of charter schools and the impact of charter schools on education in Alberta as centres of research, innovation and the development of exemplary practices. The researchers Dr. Dianne Gereluk and Dr. Eugene Kowch who are professors from the University of Calgary, have been conducting interviews and gathering information in regard to the work of each charter school. Board chair Harold Lemieux and board member Tim Edwards were involved in the interview process. As well several staff members were interviewed.

3. University of Calgary Partner Research Schools Initiative-The Calgary Science School is one of the participating school jurisdictions in the University of Calgary, Faculty of Education, Partner Research School initiative in which University of Calgary faculty serve as resource persons and researchers in collaboration with the partner research schools. A launch of this exciting initiative and a signing of a memorandum of understanding took place on April 10. A number of Calgary Science School project proposals to work collaboratively with University of Calgary as a partner research school are being explored.


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4. Outdoor Education Think Tank-April 11- A focus group comprised of school leadership, teachers (including a pre-service teacher), parents, and board members convened to explore the future direction of environmental and outdoor education programs at CSS. The initial discussion focused on developing a vision for outdoor programming and a working version is as follows: Ecological intelligence is a fundamental literacy developed through immersion in outdoor activities that should be a focus for all students in order to develop as extraordinary citizens. The discussion then shifted to non-site specific program objectives for each grade under the headings: appreciation of play (explore and discover), team building, outdoor pursuits (hard skills), environmental awareness, and curricular objectives (together with cross-curricular connections). The next phase of this discussion will be to engage staff in the process of trip planning and program development that is committed to learning objectives but not necessarily committed to a specified venue.

5. The Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools (TAAPCS)

1) Calgary Charter Schools-Superintendent/Sec. Treas. meeting April 11-matters of mutual concern were discussed

2) Executive Advisory Committee Meeting-The focus of the meeting was on discussing with Alberta Education representatives, issues and concerns relating to the provision of school facilities for charter schools

3) TAAPCS/Alberta Education General Meeting- May 2, 3

Significant Student Achievements-A number of CSS students have enjoyed some significant achievements in the past few weeks that we would like to bring to the Board’s attention. In debate we had one CSS team with Julia C. and Lauren L.V. win silver as a Junior Beginner Team at Debate Provincials. Additionally, Angel L. won Silver as a Junior Beginner Speaker at Provincials. CSS continues to be represented exceptionally well in the world of debate, thanks in large part to the commitment of our coaches this year: Ivy Waite, Jaime Groeller and Jody Pereverzoff. In wrestling we sent a very strong team to the provincials, where the following students won medals: Emma N. – Gold, Claire M. – Gold, Will K. – Gold, Ty F. – Gold, Grace W. – Gold, Logan W. - Bronze (Also competed at Nationals in Saskatoon as part of Team Alberta), James S-P. – Bronze. Dean Schmeichel was the wrestling coach who prepared the students for the success they earned at the provincials. Recently a former Calgary Science School student Arjun Nair was interviewed on the CBCs Homestretch program. He is being awarded a prestigious bio-technology award in Ottawa for research he had been doing at the university of Calgary (he's currently in grade 11 at Webber Academy). He made reference in this interview and a TV clip to the very positive impact of his learning experience at the Calgary Science School. http://m.theglobeandmail.com/technology/science/calgary-teen-wins-top-biotechnology-prize-for-cancer-research/article10961986/?service=mobile

Calgary Science School Society Board Meeting May 21, 2013


May 21, 2013 at the Calgary Science School

Board members present: Harold Lemieux (Chair), Wendy Baillie (Vice Chair), Luana Comin-‐Sartor, Stephanie Davis, Tim Edwards, Chas Filipski, Lindsay Hogan, Dale Ronsky and Dr. Norm Vaughan. Board members absent: Allison Earl, Denise Kitagawa, Dr. Ashley Nixon, Gavin Peat and Debra Scott. Staff present: Dr. Garry McKinnon (Superintendent), Darrell Lonsberry (Principal), Scott Petronech, (Assistant Principal) and Myra Penberthy (Secretary Treasurer). Two Calgary Science School students accompanied by grade 9 teacher and Science Fair Coordinator, Mr. Kevin Sonico, presented their Science Fair student projects. Maggie C. whose project is Kinectricity: The Road to Change, generated electricity from traffic, and Christian B. whose project is Water Electrolysis to Produce Hydrogen as an Energy Source, to use on solar and wind farms were showcased at the Calgary Youth Science Fair and the Canada Wide Science Fair, which was recently held in Lethbridge. The students did a fine job presenting their projects. Mr. Sonico was commended for his leadership as Science Fair Coordinator and all of his work in organizing the Science Fair activities. As well commendations were extended to all of the teachers and students who participated in the Science Fair and Explorer activities and demonstrated exemplary learning and teaching in the Calgary Science School. Board Chair Mr. Harold Lemieux declared a quorum and called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Motion 79.12 by Tim Edwards, THAT the agenda be approved. Carried Motion 80.12 by Dr. Norm Vaughan,

THAT the minutes of April 16, 2013 board meeting be approved. Carried

Motion 81.12 by Luana Comin-‐Sartor,

THAT the Board approve the 2013/2014 Calgary Science School Operating Budget to be submitted to Alberta Education.

Carried Motion 82.12 by Tim Edwards,

THAT the Board approve the 2013/2014 Calgary Science School Capital Budget to be submitted to Alberta Education.

Carried Motion 83.12 by Dale Ronsky,

THAT the Board approve the School Operations Committee’s terms of reference. Carried

Motion 84.12 by Luana Comin-‐Sartor, THAT the Board approve amendments to Policies 2.03, 2.04, 3.02, 3.03, 3.05, 4.03, 4.06, 6.07, 6.08. Carried

Motion 85.12 by Wendy Baillie, THAT the Board approve a continuing teaching contract for Ms. Ivy Waite effective August 12, 2013.

Carried


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Motion 86.12 by Tim Edwards, THAT the Board approve a continuing teaching contract for Mrs. Marla Paxton effective August 12, 2013. Carried

Motion 87.12 by Lindsay Hogan , THAT the Board approve a continuing teaching contract for Mrs Margaret Leland effective August 12, 2013. Carried

Motion 88.12 by Luana Comin-‐Sartor, THAT the Board approve a continuing teaching contract for Mr. John Cadman effective August 12, 2013. Carried

Motion 89.12 by Wendy Baillie, THAT the Board approve a continuing teaching contract for Mrs. Abby Saadeh effective August 12, 2013.

Carried Motion 90.12 by Tim Edwards,

THAT the Board approve a temporary teaching contract, for Mrs. Heather Melville effective August 12, 2013 and terminating on June 30, 2014. Carried

Motion 91.12 by Dr. Norm Vaughan, THAT the Board approve a temporary teaching contract, for Ms. Jessica Kelly effective August 12, 2013 and terminating on June 30, 2014.

Carried Motion 92.12 by Stephanie Davis,

THAT the Board approve a temporary teaching contract, for Mr. Jared McKenzie effective August 12, 2013 and terminating on June 30, 2014. Carried

Motion 93.12 by Lindsay Hogan, THAT the Board approve a temporary teaching contract, for Mr. Patrick Tam effective August 12, 2013 and terminating on June 30, 2014. Carried

Motion 94.12 by Stephanie Davis, THAT the Board approve a temporary teaching contract, for Mr. Jason Publack effective August 12, 2013 and terminating on June 30, 2014. Carried

Motion 95.12 by Stephanie Davis, THAT the Board approve a full-‐time continuing contract for Mr. Scott Petronech, as Assistant Principal, effective August 12, 2013. Carried

Communications Committee, Ms. Lindsay Hogan

• The Communications Committee met to discuss new naming options and particularly to develop an adequate process. The committee and most importantly, administration is still interested in changing the name of the school. Some may ask why? The name of a school should reflect what the school is about and what it does and unfortunately, Calgary Science School does not. A lot of time and energy is going towards dispelling myths of the Science School. Secondly, timing is excellent. The Science School is on a trajectory and this is a great time to communicate that things are changing. The biggest reservation is losing the brand capital of the name. In order to manage this, the committee will work with Red Phone consultants to develop a plan to effectively roll out a new name.


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• The Committee is focused on gathering the collective ideas of all associated parties: students, staff, parents, board members and alumni to help develop themes associated with “what does CSS represent to you?” “what words describe the essence of CSS?” etc… The Communications Committee will then work with the consultant to incorporate the themes into potential name ideas.

The main concept: develop themes, narrow themes and develop a name that aligns with the themes. Process:

• Dan McWilliam has reached out to students and staff to go through a word-‐thought process to identify what words describe CSS to them. These words will then be implemented into a Wordle to identify the most commonly suggested words and move towards generating themes.

• A letter will be drafted to the Alumni (those that have remained in contact with CSS) informing them that the school is looking to change the name. Alumni will be encouraged to share any words or thoughts that they feel represent CSS.

• June 4 – the wordle will be shared with Parents at the School Council Meeting. The parents will be informed of the process the school is going through to identify a new name and asked "have we missed anything?" if there are any other suggestions we can look to incorporate them into the wordle

• June 21 -‐ discuss the wordle at the staff recognition barbecue hosted by the Board. Ask the Board if anything was missed

• September -‐ the Communications Committee will work through the Wordle's to identify key themes and bring 3-‐5 key themes to the consultant who will begin incorporating themes into names

• October Board meeting -‐ bring 1 or 2 names to the board for "approval". If there is an agreement on a name, we would like to unveil the name at a Charter meeting later in the month. If not, we will continue to explore possibilities for renaming the school.

Leadership Team Report, Dr. Garry McKinnon, Darrell Lonsberry, Phil Butterfield & Scott Petronech • See Attachment “A” for the leadership team report.

Research & Innovation Committee, Dr. Norm Vaughan

• There have been a number of projects which have been approved and completed. • At the staff recognition lunch on June 21, 2013, teachers involved in CSS Research and

Innovation projects will showcase their work. External Collaboration Committee, Dr. Norm Vaughan

• At every ECC meeting Mr. Dan McWilliam provides an update on his work as Professional Development and Collaboration Coordinator in promoting collaboration and partnerships within the school and beyond.

• The meetings have also involved a discussion of relevant articles, ideas and resources relating to the work of the External Collaboration Committee. At the last meeting for example, an article was reviewed on how two entities can exchange their intellectual capital.

• Appreciation was expressed for the leadership of Mr. McWilliam and the involvement of CSS staff members in collaborating with Rocky View School Division staff members in developing and implementing plans and resources for promoting inquiry.

School Council, Denise Kitagawa The AGM was held on May 7 and the main points of business were as follows:

• To hear the annual reports from the President and Treasurer (which will be submitted to the Board through Mr. Lonsberry, along with minutes from all the 2012/13 School Council


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meetings) • To hold elections for the School Council Executive and Members-‐at-‐Large

Karen Cuthbertson and Paul Langille will serve as Co-‐Presidents Vice President is Rebecca Lyons (Parent Volunteer Committee co-‐founder) Treasurer is Denise Ronsky (Parent Volunteer Committee co-‐founder) Secretary is Christy Thompson

A total of 13 Members-‐at-‐Large were elected, including a couple of parents who are new to CSS as of August 2013

More than half of the Members-‐at-‐Large have served for at least one year already • The last School Council meeting of the current school year will be held on Tuesday, June 4,

2013. • The second (and final) Balzac Meats sale this school year netted just under $12,000 in fund-‐

raising proceeds. Facilities Committee, Tim Edwards and Dale Ronsky

• A submission has been made to CBE outlining priorities for major building enhancement projects to be completed.

• The potential for installing solar tubes when work on the school roof is undertaken is still being explored.

• CBE will be signing the contract with Enmax for the installation of solar panels through the Gen E. Program grant. There will be a meeting to review the process.

Governance Committee, Harold Lemieux

• The committee is reviewing the process for nominating directors at the Annual General Meeting. Currently there are 5 parent directors and 10 external directors for a total of 15 directors.

• The Governance Committee would like the risk management policy to be drafted by the School Operations Committee but reviewed by the Board as a whole. It is proposed that each committee make reference to potential risks and concerns at the time of developing the annual strategic plan.

• The staff recognition lunch hosted by the board is planned for June 21, 2013. (11:30M – 2:00pm) The staff will join the Board at the start of the board meeting to review the Research & Innovation Grants.

• The Fund Development Foundation will be reviewed in September to determine if there is a still a sufficient need for it.

Secretary Treasurer’s Report and Audit & Finance Committee, Myra Penberthy and Luana Comin-‐Sartor

• See Attachment “B”. Motion 96.12 by Dr. Norm Vaughan, THAT the meeting terminate at 8:35 p.m. Carried __________________________ Harold Lemieux, Board Chair


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Attachment “A” Calgary Science School Superintendent/Leadership Team Report Board of Directors Meeting-May 21, 2013

1. Calgary Science School Science Fair - One of the 16 descriptors of Exemplary Teaching in the Calgary Science School makes reference to a research focus where classrooms are thriving places of active research and teachers and students are learning together and from each other. Another descriptor highlights a focus on inquiry where students and teachers explore real-life questions to develop a better understanding of our world. These two descriptors and several others in the exemplary learning and teaching frameworks were very much in evidence through the involvement of Calgary Science School students in science fair activities. Twenty-one grade 5 to 9 students were selected to participate in the Calgary Youth Science Fair on April 19 and 20 which was hosted in the Olympic Oval at the University of Calgary. The students did very well and they were excellent ambassadors for the school. In all, the CSS students received 17 awards. Grade 9 student Christian U and grade 6 student Maggie C were selected to attend the Canada Wide Science Fair May 11 to May 18 in Lethbridge, while grade 9 student Avery S was selected as an alternate. They have been invited to highlight their projects at the May 21 Board of Directors meeting. Commendations are extended to Mr. Kevin Sonico CSS Science Fair Coordinator for all of his work in organizing the events and facilitating the involvement of the students. The active involvement of teachers as facilitators and mentors is greatly appreciated and congratulations are extended to all of the students who participated in the Calgary Science School Science Fair and Explorer activities.

2. Charter School Leadership Development- During the current school year, superintendents, principals and assistant principals from the 13 charter schools in the province have been involved in a series of leadership development activities based on the Alberta Education framework for school leadership. The goal of this initiative which was funded by Alberta Education was to explore the use of the seven dimensions of leadership and to develop best practices which could be replicated in other schools. In addition to the four workshops which were held during the year, charter school administrators were involved in interschool visitations, blogging and reflecting on their experiences and sharing feedback through personal interviews. The Alberta Education sponsors of the charter school leadership development program have been so impressed that they are proposing to make funding available for a continuation of the initiative over the next school year.

3. Calgary Science School Research Initiatives-In addition to the involvement with the Rocky View School Division in a series of activities to develop a deeper understanding of strategies for engaging students as learners through inquiry, the Calgary Science School as a University of Calgary Partner Research School, will be working with the Director of the Imperial Oil/University of Calgary Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) project to engage teachers and students in a series of STEM learning activities. The proposed design-based study will investigate how teachers come to understand, identify, connect, teach and assess key mathematical concepts across Grades 4-9 with collaborative professional learning. The purpose of the study is to provide an in-depth examination of how teachers develop and deepen their knowledge for teaching mathematics through collaborative professional learning. The objective of the study is to determine how teachers gain insight into how key concepts develop and are taught across each grade. The study will document teachers’


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developing understanding of mathematical concepts and of teaching mathematical concepts over the course of their participation in collaborative professional learning. Furthermore the study will look at classroom processes and problem solving approaches developed by teachers in which they involve their students as a result of the participation in collaborative professional learning. An expected outcome of the study is the development of curriculum and assessment protocols of key concepts for each grade.

4. Alberta Centre for Environmental and Outdoor Learning- The Calgary Science School continues to work closely with the Ann and Sandy Cross Conservation Area board and staff in exploring opportunities to utilize the site as a living laboratory as well as to pursue the proposal to establish an Alberta Centre for Environmental and Outdoor Learning (ACEOL). A feasibility study proposal for the development of the Centre has been completed as the next step in the process.

5. ConnectEd Canada Conference- May 24, 25, 26- There has been a tremendous response to the invitation for educators from across Canada as well as the United States to attend the second annual ConnectEd Canada conference which will be hosted at the Calgary Science School. The maximum for registrations of 300 has been attained. Several representatives of Alberta Education are registered and we are still awaiting confirmation on the possible involvement of the Minister of Education. Members of the Board of Directors are strongly encouraged to attend part or all of the conference which promises to be an outstanding opportunity to showcase the exemplary work of Calgary Science School teachers and students. More information about the event can be found at: http://www.connectededcanada.org

6. The Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools-In addition to an oral report on the most recent charter school association meetings we would like to bring to your attention documentation of the April 12 meeting with Alberta Education staff relating to charter school facilities which was prepared by Randy Clarke:

The responses below reflect messages provided to questions posed during the April 12, 2013 meeting in Red Deer. Michael Ediger, Director, Capital Planning North and Travis Hovland, Acting Director, Capital Planning South attended the meeting on behalf of Capital Planning Sector.

Will Alberta Education support 15-year lease agreements which correspond with the terms of renewed charters?

- Capital Planning is working towards a plan that will provide charter schools with greater long term security within the facilities they occupy. A number of options are being pursued, such as longer term lease arrangements commensurate with charter terms, and/or ownership of the facilities where possible. This work is underway.

Will Charter schools with 15-year renewed terms be provided with access to capital funding to facilitate modernizations and new capital projects?

- Charter schools are currently able to submit capital priorities as part of the annual request by Education. These requests are considered using the same criteria as requests from all other school jurisdictions.

Can charter schools receive an allocation of IMR and other facility funding in keeping with arrangements for other publicly funded-school jurisdictions.


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- IMR funding is provided to the owner of the facility, as the owner is responsible for dealing with major maintenance and renewal projects. Charter schools are however provided PO&M funding which can be used to address maintenance items within a school.

Will Alberta Education support the provision of a school site and capital funding for a charter school requiring additional space, where other appropriate facilities are not available? Change of MGA to allow access to municipal reserve lands?

- Charter schools are free to request consideration for new space as part of their 3-year capital plan submission. These requests will be considered within the context of province wide capital needs.

- The MGA does not allow for Charter schools to occupy Municipal School Reserve (MSR) lands. The current MGA is under review and Capital Planning is one of the groups that are being asked to provide input. Any potential change would be considered as part of this involvement. It is important to note that the MGA is legislation that is the responsibility of Municipal Affairs (not Education) and as such Education representatives will provide input into the review process.

- It is not the intent of Capital Planning to explore charter access to Reserve lands as part of new developments. The focus of these discussions will be on School Reserve sites that have been declared surplus.

What assurance can you provide that charter schools will not be asked to vacate their existing facilities because of the space crunch in Calgary schools/

- Education has a responsibility to provide adequate accommodation for all students in Alberta. Displacing Alberta students without a plan for relocation would not be supported by Education.

- Part 2, 8(3) of the Disposition of Property Regulation states:

“When, in the opinion of the Minister, space is available in a school building, the Minister may direct the board operating the school to make that space available to another board”

When will the government Capital Plan be announced, and will it give relief?

- The date of announcement for capital projects is not known. It is expected that any approval of new facilities will help relieve growth pressures on existing schools.

What plans are in place to help charter schools accommodate their lengthy waiting lists?

- Capital Planning will work towards securing facilities that have adequate capacity to accommodate the current approved charter cap.

- The Education Act asserts that a charter school must be operated in accordance with the charter approved by the Minister. The current charter schools regulation requires that the charter applicant identify the student enrollment, grade distribution and school building requirements projected for the end of the initial term of the charter. Currently, a charter board may operate in more than one location only if a single school building cannot accommodate the expected number of students identified in the charter.


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- In March of 2012, Minister Lukaszuk communicated to charter schools that the Ministry would approve enrolment growth in charter schools provided space is available in current charter facilities and provided the proposed enrolment expansion at a particular charter school could be shown to be consistent with the charter mandate of the school.

- There are provisions in the charter school regulation for charter amendment. In short, after a charter school has been established, the charter board may amend the charter in accordance with the process set out in the charter, and with the approval in writing of the Minister. If a charter school believes a significant increase in student enrolment is required to truly enable the school to achieve its charter mandate, it is incumbent on the school to make this case to the Minister.

Attachment “B”

Calgary Science School Board Meeting May 21, 2013


Financial Statements The year to date results for April 2013 include a surplus for the year of $12,000, which gives CSS a positive variance of $234,000 compared to the budget. The largest variance areas were: Additional Alberta Education grants for English as a second language of $30,000, outdoor education revenue timing differences $28,000, net fundraising revenue in school generated funds not spent yet $17,000, payroll expenses related to EI and CPP contributions timing differences $49,000 facilities enhancements of $52,000 which are permanent differences, computer technology savings of $32,000 and school contingency permanent differences of $18,000. Risk management conference On May 15, 2013 I attended a risk management conference hosted by Lloyd Sadd for school jurisdictions, in Edmonton. There was a lot of great information presented on school security, school liability related to intruder harassment, search, seizure and disciplinary action and drugs in schools. One of the presenters was the Teresa R. Haykowsky from McLennan Ross who is legal counsel for ASBA. In addition it was a great time to network with other school business officials from across the province. Respectfully submitted, Myra Penberthy

Calgary Science School Society Board Meeting June 27, 2013


June 27, 2013 at the Calgary Science School

Board members present: Harold Lemieux (Chair), Wendy Baillie (Vice Chair), Luana Comin-‐Sartor, Lindsay Hogan, Denise Kitagawa, Dr. Ashley Nixon, Gavin Peat and Dale Ronsky. Board members absent: Stephanie Davis, Tim Edwards, Chas Filipski, Allison Earl (medical leave), Debra Scott and Dr. Norm Vaughan. Staff present: Dr. Garry McKinnon (Superintendent) and Myra Penberthy (Secretary Treasurer). Prior to the Board of Directors meeting, the Board members were involved in cooking and serving for the year end student, parent and staff barbeque. The board members did a great job cooking over 600 burgers. Board Chair Mr. Harold Lemieux declared a quorum and called the meeting to order at 12:35 p.m. Motion 95.12 by Denise Kitagawa, THAT the agenda be approved. Carried Motion 96.12 by Denise Kitagawa,

THAT the minutes of the May 21, 2013 board meeting be approved. Carried

Motion 97.12 by Lindsay Hogan, THAT the Board approve a temporary teaching contract, for Ms. Jocelyn Monteith, effective

August 12, 2013 and terminating on June 30, 2014. Carried

Motion 98.12 by Luana Comin-‐Sartor, THAT the Board approve a temporary educational assistant contract for Ms. Jessica James,

effective August 12, 2013 and terminating on June 30, 2014. Carried

Motion 99.12 by Wendy Baillie,

THAT the Board accept the request for a leave of absence for Mr. David Scott from his continuing teaching position for the 2013-‐2014 school year.

Carried Motion 100.12 by Dale Ronsky,

THAT the Board accept with regret the resignation of Mrs. Amy Park from her continuing contract effective August 31, 2013.

Carried Motion 101.12 by Lindsay Hogan,

THAT the Board accept with regret the resignation of Mrs. Kathy Babiuk for her retirement from her position as receptionist, effective September 17, 2013.

Carried


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Motion 102.12 by Luana Comin-‐Sartor,

THAT the Board approve the May 31, 2013 quarterly financial statements for the Calgary Science School Society.

Carried Facilities Committee, Dale Ronsky

• The roofing contractor will be starting to do the roof repair work next week. They are contracted by the Calgary Board of Education.

• Solar tubes will be installed in the library and 2-‐3 classes which do not have windows for approximately $20,000.

Communications Committee, Ms. Lindsay Hogan

• The students, staff and school council submitted ideas regarding a new name. Collaboration, technology, school, inquiry, learning, outdoor, Calgary came up as the most common words used to describe the school.

• A Wordle was shared with the Parents at the school council meeting. The parents liked the exemplary leading, learning and teaching and exploration themes. They did not like the idea of a completely invented name. Words can be creative, derivatives of names are okay and latin version of the works are acceptable.

• The next action plan is to meet with Mr. Glen Kaylor after the summer break with all the ideas that have been submitted.

• There has been a request to obtain permission from the board to use “Collaboria” by an individual who wishes to use the name and one of the logo prototypes which have been developed by the school, for a newly-‐formed company. There was a discussion regarding cost recovery for the developmental process and suggested that a donation to the school in the amount of $1500 to $2000 would be appropriate.

Motion 103.12 by Denise Kitagawa,

THAT the communications committee is authorized to come to an agreement to release any rights the Calgary Science School has in regards to the use of the domain name “Collaboria” and the logo that was created by Mr. McWilliam through an outsourcing process.

Carried School Council, Denise Kitagawa

• The fundraising committee has approved expenditures for the fine arts program, the physical education program (climbing wall) and furniture for the library.

• The Calgary Science School Parent Fundraising Society has received $69,000 of casino money. There has been $20,000 – $25,000 approved for a climbing wall to be completed prior to the beginning of the 2013/14 school year.

Secretary Treasurer’s Report, Myra Penberthy • See Attachment “B”

Motion 104.12 by Denise Kitagawa, THAT the meeting terminate at 1:24 pm. Carried __________________________ Harold Lemieux, Board Chair


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Attachment “A” Wordle created by students at the Calgary Science School to reflect thoughts on the new name.


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Attachment “B” Calgary Science School

Board Meeting June 27, 2013


Financial Statements The year to date results for May 2013 include a deficit for the year of $15,000, which gives CSS a positive variance of $262,000 compared to the budget. Permanent differences were $156,000 and timing differences were $90,400. Public Interest Disclosure Act (PIDA) On June 4, 2013, at the University of Calgary, the Province of Alberta had a meeting to disseminate information on key elements of PIDA, to support public entities in developing internal disclosure procedures. Mr. Mark Ammann, Legislative Manager, Policy and Governance, Service Alberta and Mr. Trevor Bergen, Manager Policy Services, Policy & Governance, Service Alberta facilitated the meeting. We were given copies of the Act and regulations to the act, along with the best practices for key elements of a whistleblower policy and procedures and a legislated requirements checklist. This will aid us in the completion of our own Calgary Science School whistle blower policy. Have a great summer and see you in the fall! Respectfully submitted, Myra Penberthy

Calgary Science School Society Board Meeting September 17, 2013


September 17, 2013 at the Calgary Science School

Board members present: Harold Lemieux (Chair), Wendy Baillie (Vice Chair), Stephanie Davis, Allison Earl, Tim Edwards, Chas Filipski, Denise Kitagawa, Dr. Ashley Nixon, Gavin Peat, Dale Ronsky and Debra Scott. Board members absent: Luana Comin-‐Sartor, Lindsay Hogan and Dr. Norm Vaughan. Staff present: Dr. Garry McKinnon (Superintendent), Darrell Lonsberry (Principal), Phil Butterfield (Assistant Principal), Scott Petronech, (Assistant Principal) and Myra Penberthy (Secretary Treasurer). Mrs. Kathy Babiuk attended the board meeting as a special guest, upon her retirement and appreciation was expressed for her exemplary service as receptionist at the Calgary Science School for the past 10 years. Board Chair Mr. Harold Lemieux declared a quorum and called the meeting to order at 5:45 p.m. Motion 1.13 by Tim Edwards, THAT the agenda be approved. Carried Motion 2.13 by Denise Kitagawa,

THAT the minutes of June 21, 2013 board meeting be approved. Carried

Mr. Dan McWilliam and Ms. Erin Couillard, Collaboration and Communications leaders showcased some of the highlights of the 2012/13 school year and gave an overview of the Collaboration and Communication Plans for the 2013/14 school year. The Superintendent, Dr. Garry McKinnon presented his reflections on some of the major accomplishments during the 2012-‐13 school year and his action plan for the 2013-‐14 school year. See Attachment “A”. Motion 3.13 by Allison Earl,

THAT the Board accept the Superintendent’s Report on Achievements of the 2012-‐13 School year and the Action Plan for the 2013-‐14 School year.

Carried Motion 4.13 by Denise Kitagawa,

THAT the Board approve a contract for Ms. Linda Burlet, effective September 11, 2013 and terminating on June 27, 2014, for the position of receptionist.

Carried Motion 5.13 by Debra Scott,

THAT the Board approve the new Board meeting dates of: 2013 – Oct 22, Nov 19; 2014 – Jan 10, 11 (retreat), Feb 18, Mar 18, Apr 15, May 20, May 30 (staff appreciation lunch), June 17 (provisional), Sept 16, Oct 21 and Nov 18, are accepted.

Carried The terms of reference of the Board Committees were discussed and it was recommended by the Governance committee that each Board committee review the terms of reference annually and to submit them to the board for approval by the Annual General Meeting.


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Mr. Lonsberry provided background information in regard to the fundraising efforts of parents and plans for the installation of a climbing wall in the school gymnasium. He discussed the requirements of the Calgary Board of Education relating to the installation of a climbing wall which are reflected in the following motion: " WHEREAS the Calgary Science School Society wishes to install a climbing wall within the Clem Gardner School building owned by the Calgary Board of Education; and WHEREAS the Calgary Board of Education has granted approval for the installation of the climbing wall on the condition that the Society assumes all liability and responsibility for the construction, operation and maintenance of the climbing wall and equipment. Motion 6.13 by Denise Kitagawa Now Therefore: BE IT RESOLVED that the Calgary Science School Society agrees to assume all liability and responsibility for the construction, operation and maintenance of the climbing wall and equipment, including use guidelines, training and equipment inspection and maintenance, that the Society wishes to install within the Clem Gardner School building owned by the Calgary Board of Education." Carried There was a discussion about next steps, which would include investigating insurance requirements and provisions and preparing a project proposal which will be presented to the Board at a later date. The project will not proceed until all of the information is presented to the Board. Communications Committee, Wendy Baillie

• The communications committee has not met since the end of the last school year. • Possible new names for the school and a process for renaming the school will be presented by

the Communications Committee at the October board meeting. • The name “Collabria” has been purchased by an outside party and a donation to the Calgary

Science School was received and acknowledged with appreciation. The June 2013 Provincial Achievement results which included only the Grade 6 results since the Grade 9 exams were cancelled due to the Calgary floods, were presented to the Board and discussed. The examination results will be released publicly by Alberta Education at a later date.

Leadership Team Report, Dr. Garry McKinnon, Darrell Lonsberry, Phil Butterfield & Scott Petronech

• See Attachment “B” for the leadership team report. Research & Innovation Committee

• No report.

External Collaboration Committee, Stephanie Davis • Terms of reference were discussed. • The possible renaming of the school was also discussed.

School Council, Denise Kitagawa

• The first meeting of the school year was held on Tuesday September 10, 2013. • There will be a parent social in October. • Research and Innovation projects were discussed at the School Council meeting and the

parents would appreciate having some input.


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School Operations, Stephanie Davis • Work continues on reviewing and revising existing policy and developing new policy. A risk

Management and a Whistle Blower policy were identified as two new policies which are being developed.

• The committee plans to meet in October or early November. • The two members of the teaching staff will be invited to continue on the committee.

Facilities Committee, Tim Edwards and Dale Ronsky

• A significant amount of roof repairs have been done by CBE. • CSS is moving ahead with plans for the installation of 10 solar tubes in keeping with the school

facilities budgetary allocations. The priority of the committee continues to be on making enhancements to the facility and promoting the sustainability of the school.

• There has been an agreement reached with Enmax, the Calgary Board of Education and the Calgary Science School to install solar panels in accordance with the following resolution:

Motion 6.13 by Dale Ronsky, • RESOLVED THAT the Calgary Science School Society is authorized to enter into an agreement

with Enmax Corporation and the Calgary Board of Education for the installation and maintenance of Micro Generation Equipment on the Clem Gardner School building and the participation in the ENMAX GEN E program, as defined in the agreement."

Appreciation was expressed for the work of the school facilities committee and in particular the contributions of Mr. Ronsky and Mr. Edwards relating to the solar tube installation and sustainability initiatives. Governance Committee, Harold Lemieux

• Dr. McKinnon will be retiring as Superintendent at the end of June 2014. The Governance Committee will begin the recruitment process for a new Superintendent early in the New Year.

• Procedures for the involvement of the Board in the process of dealing with a student expulsion should it take place were discussed and reviewed by the committee.

• The Calgary Science School Foundation will be reviewed in September to determine if there is a still a sufficient need for it.

Secretary Treasurer’s Report and Audit & Finance Committee, Allison Earl and Myra Penberthy

• There was an Audit and Finance committee meeting on Sept 17, 2013 to review the August 31, 2013 Financial Statements. The draft financial statements indicate that the Calgary Science School is currently under budget.

• The audit process and meetings were discussed and meeting times established. The audit process will begin on October 7, 2013 for the year ended August 31, 2013. There may be some restatement of the prior year’s results due to commencing with reporting according to PSA Standards vs. Not-‐for-‐Profit standards.

• The Whistleblower Policy was reviewed by the committee and it was acknowledged that the policy has been sent to the office of the Public Interest Commissioner for review.

• Route Optimization Pilot Project The Calgary Science School is involved in a pilot project with the Calgary Arts Academy to determine if there is merit in redesigning the routes to incorporate both schools to increase efficiencies and the quality of the services. Dark Horse Analytics uses algorithm software to create optimized routes which are better than manual ones. Margaret Mills, our transportation analyst will be reviewing their maps of routes and perhaps we will be utilizing their services for the 2014/15 school year. The routes have already been set for the 2013/14 school year.


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Motion 7.13 by Stephanie Davis, THAT the meeting terminate at 8:50 p.m. Carried __________________________ Harold Lemieux, Board Chair


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Attachment “A”

Reflecting on Key Accomplishments in the Past School Year and Outlining Priorities for

Action for the 2013-2014 School Year - Garry McKinnon (August 19, 2013) Each year at this time, as superintendent, I make reference to the action plan from the previous year and provide observations and reflections on what has been accomplished and identify areas for continued focus. I would emphasize before making reference to some examples of major accomplishments over the past school year, that the key accomplishment has been the outstanding success of the Calgary Science School students as learners as reflected in a wide range of measures and indicators. The student success is clearly related to the manner in which the students embrace all the school has to offer; the strong commitment and ongoing support of the parents; the high level of dedication and the exemplary work of the administrative team and staff members and the support and leadership provided by the Board of Directors. A true measure of the efficacy of our various initiatives as a school community is the degree to which they support the work of the staff and ultimately foster the success of our students. Major accomplishments over the past school year include the following:

1. 15 Year Charter Renewal-‐We began the 2012 – 2013 school year with a letter from the Minister of Education, the Hon. Jeff Johnson, approving a 15 year charter renewal (2012 to 2027) for the Calgary Science School. The charter renewal supporting a new direction for the school outlined in the six charter goals, vision, mission and guiding principles, provides stability and an opportunity for the school to pursue long-‐term plans and partnerships, a 15 year lease and the possibility of having a second campus and offering a senior high school program.

2. Launch of the University of Calgary/ Imperial Oil initiative (ioSTEM) to promote the engagement of students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics programs-‐The CEO and President of Imperial Oil Bruce Marsh, the Dean of the University of Calgary, Faculty of Education Dr. Dennis Sumara and other special guests came to the Calgary Science School to engage grade 4 students and their teachers in the launch of this exciting initiative. The superintendent was involved as a member of the University of Calgary, selection committee in the process of selecting the ioSTEM Research Chair and Program Coordinator.

3. Presentation to the Deputy Minister and Senior Alberta Education Leaders (October 15, 2012)-‐The Calgary Science School and the Rocky View School Division were invited to make a presentation to the Deputy Minister and senior Alberta Education leaders highlighting the work of their jurisdiction (school) relating to innovation and implementation of exemplary learning and teaching practices associated with the pursuit of the Inspiring Education agenda. This was an excellent opportunity for the members of the leadership team to showcase the Calgary Science School and to establish a foundation for undertaking joint ventures with Alberta Education.

4. Exploring a Framework for Enhancing Teaching, Leading and Learning-‐A two-‐year study of exemplary practices at the Calgary Science School-‐The members of the CSS school leadership team worked closely with Dr. Pamela Adams, in developing a deeper understanding of instructional leadership and in identifying best practices relating to teaching, leading and learning which could be replicated in other schools. Dr. Adams is currently completing her report on the two-‐year research which will serve as a foundation for continued research and the development of exemplary practices, which can be shared with other school jurisdictions.


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5. University of Calgary Partner Research School-‐In April, 2013 a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Calgary, Faculty of Education was signed to formally recognize the Calgary Science School as a University of Calgary Partner Research School. The Calgary Science School is currently involved in a research initiative promoting learning and teaching through a disposition of inquiry and a second initiative associated with the Imperial Oil Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics program (ioSTEM) to explore and develop new approaches to teaching mathematics.

6. Calgary Science School Research and Innovation Projects-‐Following the very successful initiation of the CSS Research and Innovation program in the 2011 – 2012 school year with 16 projects being completed, staff members during the 2012-‐2013 school year, were involved in accessing the $2000 per project funding provided by the Board of Directors, to undertake a rich variety of Research and Innovation projects based on the CSS frameworks for Exemplary Learning, Teaching and Leadership. Areas for further exploration and best practices generated through the 10 projects which were completed, will serve as a focal point for action during the new school year. There has been a great deal of interest within the school and beyond, shown in the CSS Research and Innovation projects, which is reflected in the number of hits on the Connect! Blog descriptions of the projects.

7. Calgary Science School Inter-‐jurisdictional Learning and Teaching through Inquiry Initiative with the Rocky View School Division-‐Several Calgary Science School teachers participated with teachers from Rocky View School Division schools in an exciting initiative involving inter-‐school visitations, collaborative planning and the development and implementation of inquiry-‐based learning activities. This partnership will serve as a model for other inter-‐jurisdictional initiatives.

8. Joint Initiative with the Galileo Educational Network Association for the Development of a Resource for Learning and Teaching through a Disposition of Inquiry -‐Work was undertaken on the preparation of the background document and there will be continued involvement of CSS teachers in developing and sharing exemplars which will be included in the Alberta Education funded resource.

9. Cross Conservation Area Joint Venture with the Calgary Science School to Utilize the Area as a Living Laboratory and to Promote the Development of a Proposed Centre for Environmental and Outdoor Learning-‐CSS teachers and students were actively involved in the beaver relocation project and other research initiatives on the Cross site and work continued in the development of a conceptual plan for the proposed centre for environmental and outdoor learning. Accessing the full potential for utilizing the Cross Conservation Area site will continue to be a priority.

10. Initiatives to Promote the Calgary Science School as a crucible for change and a centre for collaboration and the sharing of exemplary practices relating to learning, teaching and leadership-‐There were a number of exciting initiatives facilitated by the Professional Development and Collaboration Coordinator, Dan McWilliam and members of the CSS staff to promote the active involvement of the Calgary Science School staff in hosting visits to the school, and participating in visits to other schools and a variety of professional development activities. Mr. McWilliam through his Research and Innovation project relating to this focus on promoting collaboration within the school and beyond, identified a social capital metric of 822+ which reflects the number of visitors to the school during the 2012 – 2013 school year. The hosting of the second annual Connect Ed Canada conference in May 2012 with 270


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participants was a tremendous success in promoting the school as a centre for collaboration and the promotion of exemplary teaching and leadership practices

11. Promoting the Development of Exemplary Teachers through Partnerships with University Teacher Preparation Programs-‐Calgary Science School has served as a partner school for the teacher preparation programs from the University of Calgary, Mount Royal University and the University of Lethbridge. CSS teachers serving as partner teachers for student teachers described the value of the experience for them personally as an excellent professional learning experience as well as an opportunity to positively impact the professional growth of future teachers. During the 2012 – 2013 school year there were over 170 student teachers in CSS classrooms.

12. Participation in the Alberta Charter Schools Association Research Project and Initiatives to Promote Charter Schools as Centres of Research, Innovation and the Development of Exemplary Practices in Learning, Teaching and Leadership-‐Board members and members of the leadership team participated in the TAAPCS sponsored research on charter schools in Alberta. Members of the leadership team were actively involved in the TAAPCS program funded by Alberta Education to explore the Alberta Education framework for school leadership and to develop exemplary leadership practices which could be replicated in other school jurisdictions. As well, board members and members of the leadership team were involved in promoting the role of charter schools as centres of research and the development of innovative practices in learning, teaching and leadership.

During the next school year we will continue to build on these and other accomplishments and we will pursue recommendations for further action including those identified in the strategic plan which was approved by the Board of Directors in April 2013.

Priorities for Action for the 2013 – 2014 School Year 1. Work collaboratively with Alberta Education and other partners in education in serving as a

crucible for change and promoting the successful implementation of the Inspiring Education Agenda -‐We need to continue to build close working relationships with Alberta Education and other partners in education in pursuit of the goal of serving as a centre for research-‐informed practices, innovation and the development of exemplary learning, teaching and leading. We have been able to establish a strong foundation for continuing to build on the proposal to formalize the development of the CSS Centre for Collaboration in Learning, Teaching and Leadership. If we are to serve in a key role in the Alberta Inspiring Education agenda to bring about a transformation in education in Alberta, it will be important to work with other charter schools and the Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools to demonstrate to Alberta Education and other stakeholders in education that charter schools have an important role to serve. Specifically we shall: 1) Invite the Minister of Education, Deputy Minister of Education, other Alberta Education

leaders and other key government, corporate and community leaders to visit the Calgary Science School, engage in a dialogue on strategies to promote a transformation in education and become involved in joint ventures designed to achieve the Inspiring Education goals.


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2) Involve the members of the CSS staff, Board of Directors and the External Collaboration Committee in building on the significant accomplishments and pursuing further enhancements relating to the goal of having the Calgary Science School recognized as a centre (node) for collaboration in learning, teaching and leadership.

3) Continue to celebrate the unique mandate of charter schools as centres of innovation, research and the development of exemplary practices and to promote among our charter school colleagues joint initiatives to become recognized and respected for this important role in education.

2. Develop long term scenarios and an implementation plan for the Calgary Science School related to the 15 year charter renewal and increase in the enrollment cap-‐The 15 year charter enables the Calgary Science School to pursue opportunities to expand our realm of influence and to increase opportunities for better serving our students, facilitating the professional growth of our staff and working collaboratively within the school community and beyond in promoting exemplary learning, teaching and leadership. Specifically we shall: 1) Work with Alberta Education and the Calgary Board of Education in reaching agreement

on a long-‐term lease for the existing facility 2) Continue to work with Alberta Education to address the request which was made in

January 2013 by the Board of Directors for a suitable second facility to accommodate a middle school (grades 4 to 9) student population.

3) Pursue the possibility of entering into a partnership with an existing senior high school in Calgary or the surrounding area, to offer a senior high school program which incorporates the fundamental guiding principles and goals of the Calgary Science School charter.

3. Use the Calgary Science School descriptors of exemplary learning, teaching and leadership as living documents and frameworks for action in promoting student growth as learners and the professional growth of teachers. The Calgary Science School Exemplary Learning, Teaching and Leadership documents were developed with the active involvement of students, staff, parents and members of the Board of Directors to reflect the charter goals and guiding principles and the unique characteristics of the Calgary Science School as a charter school. The frameworks have served us well and there is much more that can be accomplished in making them living documents. Specifically we shall: 1) Continue to develop the Calgary Science School learner growth plan/profile based on

the exemplary learning framework to document areas of strength, areas for further growth and a growth plan for each student to experience success.

2) Further enhance the student survey instrument to provide feedback to teachers based on the exemplary learning and teaching frameworks and ensure that it is used by teachers throughout the school year to solicit feedback from their students.

3) Determine a staff profile of areas of strength and areas for growth based on the CSS Exemplary Teaching framework which can be used in organizing professional learning experiences and developing personalized learning plans.

4) Further enhance the professional learning plan format for teachers to articulate areas of strength and areas for further growth based on the CSS Exemplary Teaching document.

4. Implement recommendations from the Calgary Science School two-‐year research study (Exploring a Framework for Enhancing Teaching, Leading and Learning)-‐Dr. Adams has completed the process of classroom visits, interviews and conversations with teachers and students, facilitating dialogue with the leadership team focusing on instructional leadership,


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facilitating a professional learning session dealing with the role of learning coaches, participating in the 2012 and 2013 Board of Directors retreats and informally gathering information and formulating insights relating to learning, teaching and leadership in the Calgary Science School. Since the beginning of June 2013 she has been involved in preparing a report on the research study. It is anticipated that the report will identify exemplars and best practices and will provide recommendations for further consideration. Specifically we shall:

1) Share key findings from the research within the school and with other school jurisdictions and use it to inform instructional leadership practices.

2) Work with the staff to identify action strategies arising from the project and outline research priorities for the future

3) Establish a committee to consider the commendations and recommendations of the report and develop a proposal for fully exploring opportunities for enhancement made available through this research study

4) Explore the possibility of working with Dr. Adams in developing strategies for sharing the findings of this study beyond the school community.

5. Promote and enhance the work of the school through research initiatives and active partnerships with key stakeholder groups including:

1) Alberta Education-‐ • Preparation of the resource on learning and teaching through a disposition of

inquiry. • Explore the possibility of becoming involved in curriculum prototype

development • Pursue the idea of serving as a crucible for change through joint ventures with

Alberta Education • Continue to be involved in the piloting of the Tell Them For Me-‐learner

engagement surveys and explore other approaches for “hearing the student voice”.

2) Galileo Educational Network Association-‐ • Continue to explore enhancement opportunities as a follow-‐up to the three-‐

year longitudinal study on the one-‐on-‐one laptop program and learner engagement

• Involve Galileo in the process of re-‐focusing on the use of the inquiry rubric 3) University of Calgary-‐

• Continue to be actively involved in pursuing joint ventures with the University of Calgary as a Partner Research School

• Work with the Director and Research Chair of the Imperial Oil/University of Calgary STEM initiative to conduct research and provide professional learning experiences in areas such as mathematics, science and robotics

• Continue to work with the Rocky View School Division and with other possible partners in promoting learning and teaching through a disposition of inquiry

• Continue to be very actively involved in serving as a partner school for the teacher preparation program and explore the possibility of working with the university in undertaking teacher preparation pilot projects

4) Mind Fuel (Science Alberta Foundation)-‐


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• Continue the involvement of CSS teachers and students in resource development and field testing in keeping with the partnership agreement with Mind Fuel

5) Ann and Sandy Cross Conservation Area-‐ • Continue the involvement of CSS teachers and students in using and

developing the site as a living laboratory • Continue the work that has been done to support the Cross Board in pursuing

the development of a conceptual plan and seeking support from possible partners for the proposed, Alberta Centre for Environmental and Outdoor Learning

6) Mount Royal University-‐ • Continue to involve MRU faculty in projects to enrich learning and teaching • Continue to serve as a partner school for the Teacher Preparation Program

and explore possibilities for becoming involved in pilot projects relating to the new MRU Bachelor of Education program

7) Calgary Regional Consortium-‐ • Continue to explore opportunities for joint ventures with the Calgary Regional

Consortium in providing professional development programs such as the very successful mathematics lesson study programs and the Connect Ed Canada conferences which have been hosted at the Calgary Science School

8) Alberta School Jurisdictions-‐ • Establish working relationships with other school jurisdictions to provide

opportunities for CSS teachers for short-‐term exchanges/co-‐ learning experiences with teachers in other schools as well as job-‐embedded professional development experiences

9) Werklund Foundation – • Continue to build on existing programs and initiatives to promote student

leadership development in the Calgary Science School 10) Partnerships with Corporations and Community Agencies-‐

• Actively pursue opportunities to enhance learning and teaching in the Calgary Science School through the authentic involvement of "outside experts" and through partnerships and joint ventures

6. Research and Innovation Projects-‐ Build on the tremendous success of the involvement of CSS staff members in conducting 30 Action Research and Innovation projects during the past two school years and implement enhancements for projects utilizing the $30,000 which has been allocated for the current school year. Specifically we shall:

1) Encourage teachers to maintain a research focus in their teaching and encourage students to develop the disposition of researchers

2) Encourage teachers to explore areas of interest or areas for professional learning by undertaking a Research and Innovation project

3) Build on previous Research and Innovation projects, consider and implement appropriate recommendations and continue to make enhancements based on these projects

7. Explore suggestions for further consideration generated through the superintendent interviews of students, parents and staff members-‐A highlights document and a document


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with detailed information relating to the superintendent interviews of 50 parents, approximately 600 students (as class groups) and 42 staff members are posted on the school website. In addition to the areas of commendation and the strong support that is shown for the Calgary Science School charter goals and the tremendous appreciation for the work of the staff, there are a number of suggestions for further consideration which should be addressed. Specifically, the following suggestions from parents, students and staff should be given further consideration:

The following suggestions for further consideration (with a response rate of 10% or more) were identified through the parent interviews:

i. Enhance Communication Processes (24%)-‐ Representative comments include: we would like to have more specific information about how our child is doing as a learner and more information on what we can be doing to support the learning of our children; we would like to see more consistency in the approach taken by teachers to communicate with parents; the school website could be cleaned up and made more user-‐friendly and we would like to learn more about how the use of communication applications such as Edmodo.

ii. Give More Attention to Developing Student Handwriting (Cursive Writing) Skills (14%) -‐Representative comments include: We value the use of technology, but we do not want our children to become too dependent on technology and we want them to be able to have good handwriting skills as well as keyboarding skills to express themselves.

iii. Consideration Should Be Given to Offering a Second Language (14%)-‐Representative comments include: Possibilities for offering a variety of second languages using computer applications should be explored because there is definite merit in having an understanding of a second language.

iv. Restructure the Student-‐led/Parent-‐Teacher conferences (10%) -‐ Representative comments include: We miss the opportunity for a face-‐to-‐face discussion with the teachers about the progress of our children and we would like to see the structure of parent-‐teacher interviews with still a component of student-‐led.

v. Consider the Possibility of Offering a Calgary Science School Senior High School Program (10%) -‐Representative comments include: It is very difficult for CSS students going to another school from grade 9 because the learning with an emphasis on lectures and a lack of technology is so different and we need a senior high school learning opportunity with a different focus than what exists in other high schools; one which builds on how students learn and teachers teach in the Calgary Science School.

There were a total of 26 suggestions for further consideration generated through the parent interviews and this feedback is included in the comprehensive summary document. The following suggestions for further consideration (with a response rate of 17% or more) were identified through the student interviews:

i. Make Enhancements to the Use of Technology (54%)-‐Representative comments include: Students and teachers should have more preparation in the use of a variety of computer applications to enhance learning and teaching and the older laptops used by grade 8 and 9 student should be replaced.


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ii. Lunch programs (30%)-‐Representative comments include: We are concerned about losing our hot lunch program and we would like to have it every day. We would like to have a microwave in every classroom to heat our lunches.

iii. Family Groupings Should be Discontinued or Significantly Enhanced (25%)-‐Representative comments include: The program needs more structure and better organization; the grade 9 students find it difficult to meaningfully interact with the younger students.

iv. Provide More Opportunities to Participate in Extracurricular Activities and School Sports Teams (25%) -‐ Representative comments include: The grade 4 and 5 students in particular, as well as other students would like to have the opportunity to participate in intramural sports activities.

v. Do More to Make Our School a Green, Environmentally Friendly School (25%)-‐Representative comments include: we should build on what we are doing like the recycling program and introduce energy saving measures like blow dryers rather than paper towels and washrooms and we should design and create an outdoor classroom.

vi. Make Improvements to the Playing Field (21%) -‐ Representative comments include: We should take some time to do a major cleanup and to make enhancements to the playing field and we should do more to naturalize the school grounds and create more green areas.

vii. Organize Special Activities and Events for the Grade 4 to 6 Students (17%)-‐ Representative comments include: the teachers and students should work together in identifying several theme day/fun activities throughout the year.

viii. Provide Appropriate Personal Storage Spaces for Grades 4 and 5 (17%)-‐Representative comments include: If it is not possible to have lockers we would like to have some place like cubbies in our classroom where we can keep our personal belongings.

ix. Make Some Enhancements to the Electives (17%)-‐Representative comments include: the staff room for foods preparation and the woodworking room should be used as much as possible because these are popular electives and it would be good to have double periods for the electives to allow for more in-‐depth learning experiences.

x. Give the Junior High Level Students More Opportunities to Develop Independence and Responsibility (17%)-‐Representative comments include: junior high students should be treated differently than elementary students; they should able to eat their lunches in other classrooms and do more social networking and more thought should be given to strategies for preparing them for senior high school.

xi. Improve the Change Room Situation (17%)-‐ Representative comments include: the ideal would be to have appropriate change rooms and shower facilities, but if this is not possible other strategies should be considered like designating the washrooms as change rooms at certain times (prior to and after physical education classes).

There are an additional 18 suggestions for improvement generated by the students which are outlined in the full summary document. The following suggestions for further consideration (with a response rate of 20% or more) were identified through the staff interviews:

i. Enhance Professional Development Programs and Initiatives (65%)-‐Representative comments include: there should be a greater emphasis on carefully and thoughtfully


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planning staff professional development activities. We need to keep coming back to the inquiry rubric and using it as a framework for our professional growth. Our professional development activities should focus on and support our charter goals and exemplary learning and teaching frameworks.

ii. Provide More Depth in Learning Experiences through Greater Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Planning (24%)-‐Representative comments include: We need to do more to promote collaboration and interdisciplinary work and we should develop a new model along the lines of the Rocky View/CSS inquiry initiatives to promote communities of practice within the school.

iii. Implement New Strategies for Addressing the Special Needs of Our Students (32%)-‐Representative comments include: there are some students who have some significant personal challenges and while we need to keep the focus on learning and teaching, we don’t want to lose sight of the personal stories of the students. We need to keep building on what we’re doing to promote inclusive practices and to have each student feel valued.

iv. Make Improvements to Family Groupings (30%)-‐Representative comments include: Family groupings is a good idea but there is room for significant improvement; we need to give students more leadership role in organizing and facilitating activities for family groupings and we need more consistency and continuity in what we are doing.

v. Increase the Involvement of the Principal and Assistant Principals in Working Directly with Teachers (30%)-‐Representative comments include: We would like to have more feedback on our teaching practices, what is working well and ideas for improvement and it would be good to have more involvement of the administration in working with teachers in planning learning activities.

vi. Increase the Emphasis on Global and Environmental Education as a School Community (24%)-‐Representative comments include: We should have global and environmental strand which serves as a focus for classroom activities as well as out of school activities throughout the school year and we should identify some significant questions and issues that the entire school will explore.

vii. Enhance Communication Processes (19%)-‐Representative comments include: currently we have too many forms of communicating with students and parents such as Edmodo and teacher websites and we should be more consistent through for example using the school website for communication. We need to do better job of communicating the vision and the nature of learning experiences of the school because they do not always seem to be clearly understood by parents. The website could use a major overhaul.

viii. Continue to actively pursue having a second campus for another middle school (16%) -‐ Representative comments include: A second campus would open up opportunities for professional growth and for enhancing our ability to sharing our learning experiences and best practices with others as well as demonstrating that what we are doing in CSS can be replicated.

ix. Prepare Junior High School Students for the Transition to Senior High School (16%)-‐Representative comments include: We need to give junior high level students more freedoms and opportunities to develop their independence. We should keep working on the vision of developing students as extraordinary citizens.


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x. Enhance Outdoor Education/Field Trip experiences and Other Out-‐of-‐ School Learning Experiences (16%)-‐Representative comments include: We are moving in a positive direction in outdoor education by having a plan and making closer connections to curricular learning outcomes. We need to ensure that out-‐of-‐school learning experiences are connected to the in-‐ school learning experiences.

As well there are 32 other suggestions for improvement outlined in the interview full summary document.

8. There are some specific recommendations in the Calgary Science School Strategic Plan 2013 – Lead, Share, Transform, including the following, which shall be addressed:

1) The External Collaboration Committee, members of the school leadership team and the Communications and Collaboration Leaders (Professional Development and Collaboration Coordinators) will develop a plan for Board approval to have the Calgary Science School serve as a crucible for change and innovation and a catalyst in the development of a network of school jurisdictions (interconnected nodes) dedicated to effectively implementing the Alberta Education Inspiring Education transformation agenda.

2) Administration will develop a five year plan for programming that includes both technology and outdoor education components, to identify the long-‐term facility and financial resources that may be required. The plan will be used for discussion purposes with the Board and will help inform prioritization of initiatives going forward.

3) Calgary Science School will review how to best use technology to continue to enhance learning and teaching; to identify how to better equip students and teachers to maximize the opportunities afforded by the use of technology and to support development of a long-‐range technology plan which will outline new directions for technology use.

4) To ensure the ongoing sustainability of the Calgary Science School outdoor education program and to explore opportunities to enhance existing programs, a comprehensive plan will be developed and specific reference will be made to the sustainability of existing facilities and the viability of use of alternate sites for the program.

5) Calgary Science School will implement initiatives with the ultimate goal for the school to serve as a living laboratory and to develop energy conservation strategies which can be used to inform sustainability plans and possibly be replicated in other schools.

6) The Communications Committee, school leadership team, Communications Coordinator and the Professional Development and Collaboration Coordinator will work collaboratively in formalizing and implementing a communications plan which includes: enhancing the school website and Connect! Blog; enhancing the use of social media to present the CSS story; implementing strategies to showcase the charter and the involvement of the staff, Board, School Council in the work of the school; implementing strategies for the effective use of the new school logo; developing recommendations for the branding and renaming of the school; implementing a marketing strategy and clarifying roles and responsibilities related to communication.


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Attachment “B” Calgary Science School Superintendent/Leadership Team Report Board of Directors Meeting-August 17, 2013

1. Exemplary Teaching and Learning in the Calgary Science School- One of the 16 descriptors of Exemplary Teaching in the Calgary Science School makes reference to enhancing learning and teaching through formal and informal networks of collaboration within and beyond our school. We had an opportunity this summer to build collaborative relationships beyond the school through involvement in the College of Alberta School Superintendents/Alberta Education summer conference in Calgary August 14-16. The keynote address was presented on Wednesday evening by our new Deputy Minister of Education Greg Bass. Greg was formerly the Superintendent of Schools for the Rocky View School Division and has a wealth of experience in various school jurisdiction roles. He is strongly committed to a reorganization of Alberta Education and working collaboratively to meet the goals of Inspiring Education. Following his presentation he made reference to the very successful involvement, during the past school year, of Calgary Science School and Rocky View teachers in collaboratively planning and implementing inquiry-based learning activities.

2. Meeting with Dr. Avi Habinski, Director of School Facilities and Capital Projects-August 15, 2013

It was very good to have the opportunity to meet with Dr. Habinski on Thursday, August 15 and he made a special point of giving up his afternoon at our Superintendents/Alberta Education summer conference to come to the school. Prior to our meeting he had met with the CBE representatives and he made them aware of our desire to have the lease in place to correspond to our charter as well as to have another facility made available for our use. Dr. Habinski indicated that his major priority will be to work with CBE to arrange for a lease for Clem Gardner to correspond to the charter which is in place until 2027. We did cover the waterfront in our discussion and highlights of the discussion include the following:

1) Dr. Habinski described his involvement in dealing with the request for funding ($60,000) to close in the area in the front of the school. He felt charter schools should be treated as any other school jurisdictions and he approved an allocation of $460,000 in order to create what we are now enjoying as the IAC. The Deputy Minister Karay Henke accepted his recommendation for the funding.

2) In the next month or two he plans to present a report to the Minister of Education on charter school sustainability. The Minister is strongly committed to providing appropriate facilities for charter schools. Alberta Education will not allow a school jurisdiction to attempt to take back a facility from a charter school if there is not an appropriate alternative in place.

3) This will be the last year of making lease payments to CBE-Westmount Charter and the Calgary Science School are the last two charter schools to be receiving payments from Alberta Education which are passed on to CBE.

4) Dr. Habinski indicated that he will be dealing with the lease arrangements with CBE. He said to give him two or three months (after the election). He wants the new lease to correspond to the charter and remove the one year notice of termination clause from the agreement.


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5) CBE and Calgary Catholic receive IMR funding for the facilities which are leased to charter schools and Dr. Habinski receives a report from the two Calgary boards on how the funding is used to benefit the charter schools. Currently the funding is pooled for all of the charter school facilities and priorities such as mechanical and roof replacements are established. In the future, Avi sees potential for the Calgary charter schools to receive IMR funding and to set up a similar pooling arrangement. It would be problematic if each charter school received the IMR funding and there was not a pooling of funds to deal with emergent major expenditures.

6) In regard to our request for a second facility, Avi described how he has been very busy dealing with boards that have been impacted by the flooding situation including CBE.CBE has a contingency plan in place to use Eugene Coste (which is currently closed) to accommodate the Elbow Park students impacted by the flood. He described how CBE is experiencing significant enrollment growth and he that Eugene Coste will be used in the future to accommodate growth in the southern part of the city. For political reasons he does not anticipate that charter schools will receive a site and funding for a new school because there is so much pressure to accommodate rapidly growing areas in the city which do not have a school. There may be a possibility in getting a developer to build us a school and having Alberta Education pay the lease, but currently there is no provision for this type of arrangement. If we were to request modular classrooms we would have to pay the moving cost and a quarter of the overall cost. We can apply for modernization funding like any other school jurisdiction. Westmount charter received this type of funding.

7) The lack of adequate funding for school facilities is a major issue province-wide. CBE has $900 million in deferred maintenance projects.

8) There could be the possibility of a facility becoming available outside of Calgary such as those in Golden Hills (Rockyford, Hussar and Standard). We could also look into the availability of the old Red Deer Lake school which is currently being leased to a private school. It is not likely that rural jurisdictions would welcome charter schools in their attendance areas because it is possible that some students would choose to attend a charter school rather than the local jurisdiction school.

9) We can access a copy of the most recent school facility audit through CBE or Alberta Education.

10) Dr. Habinski was interested in the priority the board has established on demonstrating how the existing facility can become energy efficient and sustainable. He liked the idea of installing solar tubes for lighting and energy conservation. He encouraged us to pursue Environmental Lead Silver status. He made reference to the involvement of Johnson Controls in conducting energy audits and implementing projects for short-term and long-term savings.

11) Dr. Habinski indicated that he wants to treat charter schools like any other school jurisdiction with the exception of providing land for school construction which currently is not possible because of the existing legislation.

3. School Opening-The Calgary Science School got off to a great start for the 2013-2014 school year. Following a very successful staff retreat on August 13 and professional development day on August 14, the arrival of students on August 15 went very smoothly. The focus of the staff professional development retreat was on using the Calgary Science School descriptors of Exemplary Learning and Teaching as a


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framework for action. Staff members completed a survey based on the dimensions and identified areas of strength and priority areas for further growth. Information from this survey will be used in assisting teachers with the development of their professional learning plans and in the organization of staff professional learning activities during the school year. As well, reference was made at the retreat to the inquiry rubric which will serve as an ongoing frame of reference. Commendations are extended to the caretaking, office and teaching staff members for all their hard work in preparation for the new school year. The opening day parent reception and meet the teacher days were very well attended by parents and there were many commendations of appreciation. The work on the roof was completed over the summer and arrangements are being made for the installation of solar tubes in the library and the three classrooms which do not have natural lighting. Our first trip to Camp Sweet departed on the fourth day of school. Of course, sending 500 students to camp in the first few weeks of school required the camp to be set up and prepared appropriately, a task which was undertaken by parent, student and staff volunteers at our annual Camp Sweet work bee on August 17.

4. Registration of Grade 4 Students-There was an overwhelming response from parents with children in kindergarten who were given the opportunity on September 16 to register their child to attend the Calgary Science School four years into the future. We are most appreciative of the special effort Kathy Babiuk, our highly competent and dedicated receptionist, made to be available for the registration process prior to beginning her retirement.

5. Other items-Darrell, Phil and Scott-perhaps something on BeakerHead

6. Provincial Agreement on Steps to Reduce Teacher Workload

The Provincial Framework Agreement involving the Alberta Teachers’ Association, Alberta Education and the Alberta School Boards Association mandates the formation of a C2 (section C2 of the agreement) Teacher Workload Committee, which will provide a forum for identifying and addressing issues and concerns relating to teacher workload. In addition to forming a provincial committee the agreement mandates the formation of a school jurisdiction joint committee to design, direct and conduct internal reviews to determine what jurisdiction initiated tasks or policies can be eliminated or modified to reduce teacher workload and improve teacher efficacy. The committee shall be comprised of representatives of the school jurisdiction named by the school jurisdiction including teacher representation. The teacher representation should reflect the diversity of teaching circumstances within the jurisdiction. C2 committee should be the stewards of collaborative and positive changes within each school jurisdiction designed to improve teachers’ conditions of professional practice and in so doing improve learning conditions for students. The commitment to undertake such an initiative includes Alberta Education which shall strive to ensure that teachers have the time to focus on the successful implementation of the Inspiring Education agenda and additional time to focus on their students. Alberta Education is committed to ongoing analysis in order to further reduce or eliminate unnecessary tasks in the find ways of freeing up time for teachers. Although charter schools are not directly involved in this agreement, since teachers are not full members of the Alberta Teachers’ Association, consideration should be given


18

by the Calgary Science School Board of Directors and staff to establishing a similar committee or expanding the mandate of the School Operations/Policy Committee.

7. Alberta Education and the Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools (TAAPCS) Meetings-

1) September 18 -TAAPCS Professional Development on School Leadership-Calgary

2) September 19-TAAPCS Executive Advisory Committee meeting-Red Deer 3) October 18- TAAPCS/Alberta Education meeting-Greenwood Inn-Calgary 4) The next regular meeting and AGM of The Association of Alberta Public

Charter Schools will be held on Thursday October 24, 2013 at the Greenwood Inn (3515 – 26 St. NE) in Calgary, immediately followed by our AGM (agendas coming soon!). On the evening preceding the meeting (Wednesday October 23), courtesy of the Calgary Arts Academy, the event will begin at the National Music Centre, 134 – 11 Ave. SE, with a wine & cheese reception at 5:00 p.m., followed by a guest speaker at 5:15 and a CAA student performance at 5:30 followed by dinner at the Centre beginning at 7:00.

Calgary Science School Society Board Meeting October 22, 2013


October 22, 2013 at the Calgary Science School

Board members present: Wendy Baillie (Vice Chair), Luana Comin-‐Sartor, Tim Edwards, Chas Filipski, Lindsay Hogan, Denise Kitagawa, Dr. Ashley Nixon, Gavin Peat, Dale Ronsky and Debra Scott. Board members absent: Harold Lemieux (Chair), Dr. Norm Vaughan, Stephanie Davis and Allison Earl. Recording Secretary: Phil Butterfield, Assistant Principal (Myra Penberthy absent). Staff present: Dr. Garry McKinnon (Superintendent), Darrell Lonsberry (Principal), Phil Butterfield (Assistant Principal) and Scott Petronech, (Assistant Principal). Mr. Glen Kaylor from Redphone Inc. presented on the possibility of a new name to replace the Calgary Science School. Guests: Jeff Turner, Michael Ireton, David McKenzie Board Vice Chair Ms. Wendy Baillie declared a quorum and called the meeting to order at 6:12 p.m. Motion 8.13 by Denise Kitagawa, THAT the October 22, 2013 agenda be approved. Carried Motion 9.13 by Tim Edwards,

THAT the minutes of September 17, 2013 board meeting be approved. Carried

Ms. Luana Comin-‐Sartor reviewed the budget update which is to be sent to Alberta Education by November 30, 2013. Motion 10.13 by Debra Scott,

THAT the Board formally receive the 2013 Fall Budget update for the Calgary Science School Society in accordance with Alberta Education requirements.

Carried Motion 11.13 by Lindsay Hogan,

THAT the Board approve the Draft August 31, 2013 year end Financial Statements. Carried

Ms. Wendy Baillie presented the Governance Committee terms of reference.

Motion 12.13 by Tim Edwards,

THAT the Board approve the Governance Committee terms of reference. Carried

Board members are requested to ensure that they are aware of and compliant with Article 11 Conflict of Interest in the Calgary Science School Society By-‐Laws. Governance Committee, Wendy Baillie

• No report.


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Secretary Treasurer’s Report and Audit & Finance Committee, Luana Comin-‐Sartor • See Attachment “A” for the Secretary Treasurer’s report

Leadership Team Report, Dr. Garry McKinnon, Darrell Lonsberry, Phil Butterfield & Scott Petronech • See Attachment “B” for the leadership team report. • Addition – Dr. McKinnon received a phone call from Dr. Avi Habinsky of Alberta Education to

explain that he has made arrangements with the Calgary Board of Education for the Calgary Science School to enter into a 5-‐year lease agreement with the CBE for the Clem Gardner facility.

Research & Innovation Committee • Two research projects underway: Assessment through Inquiry; Repurposing Clem’s Garden as an

instructional space. External Collaboration Committee,

• Reviewed terms of reference. Discussed how best to utilize Connect! Blog. School Council, Denise Kitagawa

• Balzac Meat fundraiser – approximately $13,000 in revenue. Traffic safety concerns emerged that will need to be addressed in the future.

School Operations, Denise Kitagawa

• First meeting for the school year will be November 5, 2013 Facilities Committee, Tim Edwards and Dale Ronsky

• On October 11, 2013 the solar tubes were installed at the Calgary Science School. Teachers will be gauging student perceptions before and after installation.

• Solar panels – contract signed 2 weeks ago. Should be with Enmax and installation expected in about a week

Communications Committee, Lindsay Hogan

• Committee met with Glen Kaylor and developed 3 naming options: Calgary Science Charter School, Connect, or Admira. Slides will be put in Dropbox for review over the next month. Steps will be taken to get feedback from all stakeholders to bring back to Board in November.

• No other naming options are being considered. • Next step is to invite feedback on the three name choices through a survey of staff, students,

and parents within the next week and the survey feedback will be provided to the Board to take in consideration in making a decision on renaming the school at the November 19, 2013 meeting of the Board of Directors

• Parents will be informed of the school re-‐naming survey process at the upcoming school council meeting.

Motion 13.13 by Lindsay Hogan That the Board accept the recommendation of the communications committee that a survey be prepared that provides background as to the naming process and would present 3 options for renaming the school, and that the information gathered through the surveys be used to inform the Board in the decision making process, which will be take place at the November 19, 2013 meeting. Carried Motion 14.13 by Denise Kitagawa THAT the meeting terminate at 7:29 p.m. Carried ____________________________ Wendy Baillie, Board Vice Chair


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Attachment “A” Secretary Treasurer’s Report October 22, 2013 Fall 2013 Update to the 2013/14 Budget Alberta Education requires all school jurisdictions to submit a Fall update to the current school year’s budget. This is to be submitted prior to November 30. We have not changed our current school year’s budget so it is identical to the Spring 2013 budget for 2013/14. The information is to be formally received by the Board of Directors to accommodate Alberta Education requirements. Audit of August 31, 2013 Financial Statements Our Auditors, Grant Thornton, started their fieldwork at the Calgary Science School on October 8, 2013 and will finish their fieldwork on October 23, 2013. The auditors will complete the Audited Financial Statements by November 4, 2013 at which time we will send them to the Audit and Finance Committee. The Audit and Finance committee will then have time to review the Audited Financial Statements and Notes to the Financial Statements and will meet with the auditors on November 12, 2013. Finally the Audited Financial Statements will be presented to the Board on November 19, 2013 for their approval prior to the Annual General Meeting. August 31, 2013 Financial Statements

August Financial Statements show a large favorable variance of $365,600.

1. During the year we identified that it was not desirable or optimal to achieve our budget target deficit of $427,000. In order to minimize this result we examined the budget to determine if expenses could be reduced (without impacting programming) to minimize the draw on the accumulated operating surplus. We determined that there could be cost savings in renovations, school expenses (contingency fund), student services and board and system administration. This accounts for $160,000 of the variance.

2. During the year an opportunity to apply for ESL funding was identified and acted upon. We applied for ESL funding by the deadline date (thanks to Mrs. Abby Saadeh) and subsequently the funding was received in the second half of the year. This happened in conjunction with increased interest revenue and donations which are always budgeted conservatively. This accounts for $65,000 of the variance.

3. Outdoor education net amount between revenues and expenses is transferred to enrichment expenses. This was not included in the budget but in the 2013/14 budget it is a part of the process. This accounts for $50,000 of the variance.

4. Payroll Expenses are budgeted for at the exact level of teaching staff, including the incremental grid increases at budget time. Subsequently, we have the end of the school year which brings a small amount of turnover in teaching staff. There was a difference between positions on the grid of new teachers versus budgeted teachers.


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This accounts for $90,000 of the variance.

I would like to thank the Audit and Finance Committee for all their help and support during this transition year to PSA Standards. They have been immensely helpful in accommodating all the extra meetings with the auditors and uncertainty in the compliance and new reporting formats. I would also like to thank Ms. Krista Brenner, Ms. Nola Shewfelt and Dr. Susan Miller for their exemplary work in assisting with audit working papers and audit walkthroughs. Respectfully submitted, Myra Penberthy

Attachment “B”

Calgary Science School Superintendent/Leadership Team Report Board of Directors Meeting-October 22, 2013

1. Exemplary Teaching and Learning in the Calgary Science School-‐ One of the 16 descriptors of Exemplary Teaching in the Calgary Science School makes reference to enhancing learning and teaching through promoting a culture of innovation where as a school community of innovators and risk takers we promote an entrepreneurial spirit. A one day a week lunch time program that has students run and manage a branch of ATB with adult guidance has been introduced at the school. This program offers all students the opportunity to have a real bank account, track their personal savings, set short and long term financial goals, and to build sound saving behaviours. This program is being pursued, based on the recommendation of our school council, and we are supportive because it also offers grade 4-‐6 students the opportunity to work in the branch in a variety of roles including front-‐end teller, branch manager, advertising director, board of directors, to name a few. These students will go through an application, interview and training process in order to get a position at the branch. Many of the roles at the branch will build student leadership skills while others will allow students to build basic numeracy and organization skills. All branch employees have the opportunity to visit a working branch of ATB and will be awarded a certificate and other awards and incentives. At present, we will be proceeding with the interview and hiring process after the Fall break and tentatively having the grand opening of the branch on November 12th, 2013.

2. Environmental and Outdoor Education-‐One of the descriptors of exemplary teaching makes reference to promoting environmental and global awareness to inspire our students to become informed and active citizens. Mr. Greg Neil, a member of the CSS teaching staff will attend the board meeting to provide an overview of an environmental sustainability plan he has developed through his Research and Innovation project and he will report on the work of a committee of teachers which is developing strategies for promoting environmental awareness and the sustainability of the Calgary Science School facility. The Calgary Science School continues to be involved in exploring opportunities for utilizing the Cross Conservation Area site as a living laboratory and in supporting the Cross Board’s proposal to create the Alberta Centre for Environmental and Outdoor Learning.


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3. Inclusive Education funding for charter schools-‐The Executive Advisory Committee of the Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools has prepared a document which provides background information relating to Inclusive Education funding for charter schools, which will be presented at the October 24 general meeting where representatives will be requested to provide direction in regard to presenting a proposal to Alberta Education. During the 2011-‐2012 school year all school jurisdictions received funding of $16,465 per student for students with severe learning needs and $2486.76 for students who had what are described as mild/moderate learning needs. Beginning with the 2012 – 2013 school year all school jurisdictions, received $55 per student and public jurisdictions with the exception of charter schools received the lower of the 2011 – 2012 severe funding or $457.34 per student. If the Calgary Science School was funded for Inclusive Practices at the same level as other public schools, the school would receive an additional $274,564.00 which could be used for developing individualized student learning plans and providing extra assistance for students with special learning needs. It is difficult to develop a position for all charter schools because the new model would penalize three of the 13 charter schools. This will be an important topic of conversation at the Alberta charter schools meeting.

4. University of Calgary Partner Research School-‐The Calgary Science School has been designated as a University of Calgary Partner Research School and on October 3 Dr. McKinnon attended a meeting at the University of Calgary to explore various joint research possibilities with members of the faculty. Later that day Dr. Sharon Friesen, Vice-‐Dean of the Faculty of Education came to the school to meet with the leadership team to discuss various initiatives including the involvement of the school in developing a provincial resource on learning and teaching through a disposition of inquiry.

5. Education plan and Annual Educational Results Report-‐Members of the leadership team have been involved in making reference to the board’s strategic plan and feedback that has been received from students, parents and staff through surveys and interviews as a report on the past school year and an education plan for the next three school years is prepared for submission to Alberta Education. The Education Plan and Annual Educational Results Report will be presented for approval at the November 19 meeting of the Board of Directors.

6. University of Lethbridge presentation on Action Strategies for the Transformation of Education in Alberta-‐Dr. McKinnon was a guest of the University of Lethbridge on October 9 to make a presentation to faculty members and neighboring school jurisdictions, featuring the Calgary Science School and outlining the role of the school in promoting and facilitating a transformation of education in Alberta. He also met with Dr. Pam Adams at the University of Lethbridge who is completing a report on her two-‐year research conducted in the Calgary Science School on the role of the school as a charter school in promoting research, innovation and the development of exemplary practices. It is anticipated that she will be presenting a report on her research in late November or early December.

7. Enrolment and grade 4 wait list registration, Outdoor Education/Bamfield, Math Concept Study, Curriculum Re-‐design Project with Rockyview School Division

8. Alberta Education and the Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools (TAAPCS) Meetings-‐


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1) October 7-Minister’s Task Force on Teaching Excellence-Calgary 2) October 10-Alberta Education Workforce Planning Advisory Committee

meeting-Edmonton 3) October 21, 22-Canadian Education Association Conference on Innovation-

Calgary 4) October 23-Charter School Superintendents meeting and TAAPCS Board

Chairs, Directors Superintendents meeting (1:00 PM-Greenwood Inn-Calgary) 5) October 24-TAAPCS Annual General Meeting-8:30 AM to 3:30 PM-

Greenwood Inn 6) October 25-Alberta Charter Schools Conference-hosted by the Calgary Girls’

School 7) November 21 -TAAPCS Professional Development on School Leadership-

Calgary Science School 8) The next regular meeting and AGM of The Association of Alberta Public

Charter Schools will be held on Thursday October 24, 2013 at the Greenwood Inn (3515 – 26 St. NE) in Calgary, immediately followed by our AGM (agendas coming soon!). On the evening preceding the meeting (Wednesday October 23), courtesy of the Calgary Arts Academy, the event will begin at the National Music Centre, 134 – 11 Ave. SE, with a wine & cheese reception at 5:00 p.m., followed by a guest speaker at 5:15 and a CAA student performance at 5:30 followed by dinner at the Centre beginning at 7:00.

Calgary Science School Society Board Meeting November 19, 2013

Minutes of Calgary Science School Society, Board of Directors Meeting #1

November 19, 2013 at the Calgary Science School Board members present: Harold Lemieux (Chair), Wendy Baillie (Vice Chair), Luana Comin-‐Sartor, Stephanie Davis, Allison Earl, Tim Edwards, Chas Filipski, Lindsay Hogan, Denise Kitagawa, Dr. Ashley Nixon, Gavin Peat, Dale Ronsky, Debra Scott and Dr. Norm Vaughan. Staff present: Dr. Garry McKinnon (Superintendent), Darrell Lonsberry (Principal), Dr. Phil Butterfield (Assistant Principal), Scott Petronech, (Assistant Principal) and Myra Penberthy (Secretary Treasurer). Guests: David McKenzie, Jeff Turner and Dave Robinson (potential board members); Hannah R., Grade 8 student and Sydney E., Grade 6 student at the Calgary Science School as part of the Junior Alberta Treasury Branch elective. Board Chair Mr. Harold Lemieux declared a quorum and called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Motion 15.13 by Debra Scott, THAT the November 19, 2013 agenda be approved. Carried Motion 16.13 by Debra Scott,

THAT the minutes of October 22, 2013 board meeting be approved. Carried

Allison Earl, Chair of the Audit and Finance Committee presented the Audit and Finance Committee report on the Audited Financial Statements and the process around the audit. Recognition was given to the Audit and Finance Committee for their great work over the year as well as the Finance team for the preparation of the working papers and facilitating a successful audit. Motion 17.13 by Allison Earl,

THAT the Board approve the August 31, 2013 Audited Financial Statements. Carried

Harold Lemieux made reference to an annual written performance evaluation for Dr. Garry McKinnon, Superintendent of the Calgary Science School. Mr. Lemieux reported that Dr. McKinnon received an exceptional performance evaluation, which including input from all members of the Board and Administration. The Board members and administration expressed appreciation for the outstanding leadership and significant accomplishments, through the years, of outgoing board member Stephanie Davis, Motion 18.13 by Denise Kitagawa,

THAT the meeting terminate at 5:45pm Carried

______________________________________ Harold Lemieux, Chair

Calgary Science School Society Annual General Meeting November 19, 2013

Minutes of the Calgary Science School Society

Annual General Meeting Held November 19, 2013 at the Calgary Science School

Members Present: Harold Lemieux (Chair), Wendy Baillie (Vice Chair), Luana Comin-‐Sartor, Stephanie Davis, Allison Earl, Tim Edwards, Chas Filipski, Lindsay Hogan, Denise Kitagawa, Dr. Ashley Nixon, Gavin Peat, Dale Ronsky, Debra Scott and Dr. Norm Vaughan Staff Present: Dr. Garry McKinnon (Superintendent), Darrell Lonsberry (Principal), Dr. Phil Butterfield (Assistant Principal), Myra Penberthy (Secretary Treasurer). Guests: Mr. David McKenzie, Mr. Dave Robinson and Mr. Jeff Turner (potential new board members), Hannah R., Grade 8 and Sydney E., Grade 6 students at the Calgary Science School attended as part of the Alberta Treasury Branch elective. Harold Lemieux called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. There was a quorum. Motion 19.13 by Debra Scott,

THAT the November 19, 2013 Annual General Meeting agenda be approved. Carried Motion 20.13 by Chas Filipski,

THAT the minutes of the November 27, 2012 Annual General Meeting be approved.

Carried

The Audited Financial Statements for the year ended August 31, 2013 for the Calgary Science School Society were presented. Motion 21.13 by Debra Scott,

THAT the following directors each be nominated for a 3 year term: Tim Edwards, Dave Robinson and Jeff Turner. and THAT the following directors each be nominated for a 1 year term:

Allison Earl, Denise Kitagawa, David McKenzie, Dr. Ashley Nixon and Dale Ronsky. Carried

Motion 22.12 by Dr. Norm Vaughan,

THAT nominations cease. Carried Motion 23.12 by Debra Scott,

THAT the following directors each be elected for a 3 year term: Tim Edwards, Dave Robinson and Jeff Turner.

Calgary Science School Society Annual General Meeting November 19, 2013

and THAT the following directors each be nominated for a 1 year term:

Allison Earl, Denise Kitagawa, David McKenzie, Dr. Ashley Nixon and Dale Ronsky.

Board Member

Terms / Yrs Svce

2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Baillie

Wendy 2/3 1 1 2

Comin-Sartor

Luana 2/3 1 2

Earl Allison 1/1 1 1 1

Edwards Tim 1/3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 Filipski Chas 2/3 1 2 Hogan Lindsay 3/3 1 2 3 Kitagawa Denise 1/1 1 1 Nixon Ashley 1/1 1 1 Lemieux Harold 2/3 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 Peat Gavin 2/3 1 2 Ronsky Dale 1/1 1 1 1 Scott Debra 3/3 1 1 1 1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2 3 Vaughan Norm 3/3 1 2 3 1 2 3

(Please note that the election of the board members would have occurred at the November AGM) Motion 24.12 by Chas Filipski THAT the meeting terminate at 6:09 p.m. Carried Harold Lemieux, Chair


Minutes of Calgary Science School Society, Board of Directors Meeting #3

November 19, 2013 at the Calgary Science School

Board members present: Harold Lemieux (Chair), Wendy Baillie (Vice Chair), Luana Comin-‐Sartor, Allison Earl, Tim Edwards, Chas Filipski, Lindsay Hogan, Denise Kitagawa, David McKenzie, Dr. Ashley Nixon, Gavin Peat, Dave Robinson, Dale Ronsky, Debra Scott, Jeff Turner and Dr. Norm Vaughan. Staff present: Dr. Garry McKinnon (Superintendent), Darrell Lonsberry (Principal), Dr. Phil Butterfield (Assistant Principal) and Scott Petronech, (Assistant Principal) and Myra Penberthy (Secretary Treasurer) Guests: Stephanie Davis Board Chair Mr. Harold Lemieux declared a quorum and called the meeting to order at 6:09 p.m. Motion 25.13 by Chas Filipski, THAT the November 19, 2013 board meeting agenda be approved. Carried Motion 26.13 by Denise Kitagawa,

THAT the Board appoint as Chair, Harold Lemieux, Vice Chair, Wendy Baillie, Chair of the Audit and Finance committee, Allison Earl and Secretary Treasurer, Myra Penberthy for the 2013/14 year.

Carried

Motion 27.13 by Allison Earl, THAT the Board appoints Grant Thornton LLP as auditors for the year ending August 31, 2014, as recommended by the Audit and Finance committee. Carried Mr. Darrell Lonsberry presented a summary of the Annual Education Results Report and the 3-‐year Education plan. Motion 28.13 by Denise Kitagawa, THAT the board approve the 2012-‐13 Annual Education Results Report and 3 year Education Plan as presented.

Carried Motion 29.13 by Tim Edwards, THAT the following appointments be approved for the 2013/14 year: Members of the following committees: Governance, Harold Lemieux, Wendy Baillie, Allison Earl, Dale Ronsky, Debra Scott Audit & Finance, Allison Earl, Luana Comin-‐Sartor, Gavin Peat Facilities, Tim Edwards, Dale Ronsky Communications and Marketing, Lindsay Hogan, Wendy Baillie, Chas Filipski, School Operations, Denise Kitagawa, Ashley Nixon, Jeff Turner External Collaboration, Dave Robinson, Norm Vaughan, Gavin Peat, Debra Scott Non Board members, Dr. Torben Bech-‐Hansen, Tom Collins, Doug Rogan, Anne Tingle, Lori Wilhelm Einsporn Research & Innovation and Professional Assistance, Norm Vaughan and David McKenzie

Carried


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Motion 30.13 by David McKenzie, THAT the following appointments be approved for the 2013/14 year: Chairs of the following committees: Governance, Harold Lemieux Audit & Finance, Allison Earl Facilities, Tim Edwards Communications and Marketing, Lindsay Hogan School Operations, Denise Kitagawa External Collaboration, Dave Robinson Research & Innovation and Professional Assistance, Dr. Norm Vaughan

Carried Stephanie Davis reviewed the School Operations committee three policies, Policy 4.01 Employee Relations, Policy 4.08 Employee Conduct and Policy 4.09 Disclosure (Whistleblower) Policy. Motion 31.13 by Denise Kitagawa, THAT the Board approve for first reading Policy 4.08 Employee Conduct, and Policy 4.09 Disclosure (Whistleblower) Policy

Carried The Board deferred dealing with the proposed amendments to Policy 4.01 Employee Relations, which removes reference to employee conduct until the other two policies are approved. Lindsay Hogan, Chair of the Communications Committee, presented the results of the Calgary Science School survey and relevant background information relating to the proposals for renaming the school. The Board Members were engaged in an in-‐depth discussion of the proposals, the renaming and transition process and relevant questions. Motion 32.13 by Lindsay Hogan,

THAT the Board approve the new name of Connect Charter School effective January 1, 2014. Carried

The Communications Committee was given the responsibility of developing a plan for making the transition to a new name, including costs, for presentation to the Board of Directors at the December 2013 Board meeting. It was also noted that some initial expenditures, which will be funded through the school facilities budgetary allocation such as signage, will be required. The climbing wall discussion and review were deferred until the December board meeting. Governance Committee, Harold Lemieux

• No meeting.

Secretary Treasurer’s Report, Myra Penberthy

• See Attachment “A” for the Secretary Treasurer’s report

Leadership Team Report, Dr. Garry McKinnon, Darrell Lonsberry, Phil Butterfield & Scott Petronech • See Attachment “B” for the leadership team report. • We received a draft contract for a 5 year lease for the Clem Gartner School from the Calgary

Board of Education.


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• Telus Spark event on December 4, 2013, from 6:00 -‐ 7:30 pm which will highlight grade 8 student presentations. All board members are encouraged to attend.

Motion 33.13 by Tim Edwards,

THAT the Board support the participation of the Calgary Science School in the joint venture with Mount Royal University as outlined in the letter of intent.

Carried Research & Innovation Committee, Dr. Norm Vaughan

• The Board is encouraged to check out the Connect! Blog on the school website to review the many engaging blogs related to teacher Research and Innovation projects.

• The school will be hosting a conference, Innovate West on May 23, 24 and 25 which is based on the format of the previously hosted Connect Ed Canada conference.

External Collaboration Committee • No report.

School Council, Denise Kitagawa

• School Council meeting included guests from Almadina Charter School • $6500 was raised through the WestJet raffle • Balzac Meats sale in the spring will be the final fundraiser of the year. • Fun Lunch will be raising more this year due to the increased volume of fun lunches.

School Operations, Stephanie Davis

• First meeting for the school year was held on November 5, 2013 and 2 policies were brought to the board meeting for first reading.

• The process for engaging staff members on an ongoing basis in discussing facilitators and barriers relating to their ability to implement the Inspiring Education agenda in accordance with C2 of the provincial tripartite agreement was reviewed.


• Solar panels – 6 solar panels have been installed on the roof of the building. Motion 34.13 by Dave Robinson

THAT the Board of Directors have a meeting on December 17, 2013 and the dates for the Board retreat be changed to January 24 & 25, 2014. Carried Motion 35.13 by Denise Kitagawa THAT the meeting terminate at 8:25 p.m. Carried ____________________________ Harold Lemieux, Board Chair


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Attachment “A” Calgary Science School

Board Meeting November 19, 2013

Secretary Treasurer’s Report Financial Statements We have completed the financial statements for September 2013 and are working on October 2013 and feel confident that the numbers are an accurate reflection of our position to date. We have an operating loss of $43,000, which is a negative variance of $3,400 to our profiled budget. We will be presenting the November quarterly results in January. Board Biographies We have a section on the CSS website which highlights our current board members. A reminder to all new board members that we would like to receive a short autobiography to post to our website. We will ensure that there is a picture and narrative to introduce the new Board of Directors to the Calgary Science School community. Association of School Business Officials of Alberta (ASBOA) Annual Issues Forum On November 14, 2013, I attended the annual issues forum hosted by ASBOA. Representatives from Alberta Education and MLA Linda Johnson were there. The focus of the forum was to update the group on the activities of smaller working groups on the regulations to the School Act which they are reviewing, providing input and gathering input from the rest of the group, on the following subject areas: Transportation, Student records, School councils, Disposition of property, School fees, School closures, Natural person powers (NPP), Governance and Finance. The Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools (TAAPCS) Our next TAAPCS meeting will be on January 16 & 17, 2014 in Red Deer. Thursday night will be the dinner and Friday will be the meetings. I will send out the agenda and invitation as soon as I receive it but please let me know if you are interested in attending. Thank You I would like to express my appreciation to Stephanie Davis for her advice and support over the years as she has served on our Board of Directors. I have worked with her on the School Operations committee and witnessed first hand her masterful command of policy and chairing meetings. I wish her well in her future endevours. Respectfully submitted, Myra Penberthy


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Attachment “B”

Calgary Science School Superintendent/Leadership Team Report Board of Directors Meeting-November 19, 2013

1. Exemplary Teaching and Learning in the Calgary Science School-‐ One of the 16 descriptors of Exemplary Teaching in the Calgary Science School makes reference to enhancing teaching and learning through formal and informal networks of collaboration within and beyond our schools. The impact of the Calgary Science School in promoting collaboration through school visits and special professional learning events such as the Connect Ed Canada conference which has been hosted in the Calgary Science School for the past two years was highlighted at an Alberta Education meeting on November 4 hosted by the Minister of Education the Honorable Jeff Johnson and the Deputy Minister of Education Mr.Greg Bass. Dr. McKinnon attended the meeting as a representative of the Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools. Mr. Bass in highlighting the focus of the meeting on promoting teaching excellence and achieving the goals of Inspiring Education, presented a video clip (below) which highlights the impact of the Calgary Science School on a teacher’s career. Mark Turner of RVSD speaks about Engagement in teaching. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsHOoQw6SXg

2. The Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools (TAAPCS-‐pronounced Taps)

meetings and special events-‐ The superintendents of the 13 Alberta charter schools met on the morning of October 23 to deal with a variety of agenda items related to the role of charter schools in Alberta and issues of common concern such as the availability of appropriate school facilities. The dialogue continued in the afternoon with a meeting involving superintendents and charter schools directors. Ms. Wendy Baillie attended as a representative of the Board of Directors. Mr. Gavin Peat represented the Board of Directors at the dinner and student performances hosted by the Calgary Arts Academy. Board Directors Ms. Wendy Baillie, Ms. Debra Scott and Ms. Denise Kitagawa and Superintendent Dr. Garry McKinnon attended the TAAPCS meeting and Annual General Meeting on October 24. One of the key items was a discussion of the proposed regulations relating to charter schools which are being developed to be implemented when the new Education Act is introduced in 2015. MLA Christine Cuccinelli was present to discuss Charter school recommendations for the current Regulatory Review process which is underway.

Ms. Cusanelli is meeting with stakeholder groups throughout the province to hear their wishes/concerns regarding the regulations connected to the new Education Act. Her committee is very dedicated to the ideals of the Inspiring Education initiative; charter schools are a “gem” that we offer in Alberta and, as such, can play a significant role in meeting those ideals.


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Table discussions resulted in the identification of several issues that the participants would ask be kept in mind: 1. the desire for “continuous” terms (replacing 15 year terms), 2. access to equitable facilities, ideally including ownership of new buildings, 3. the recognition that the concept of choice should underlie the regulations, and that removal of obstacles to choice is imperative, 4. equitable treatment in terms of accountability, and 5. timely decision-making. The point was made that some of the consultations so far have revealed an unwillingness on the part of some education stakeholders to recognize that charter schools are here to stay.

Ms. Cusanelli encouraged charter schools to be relentless in sending their message, and will assist in the direction of that message to the appropriate MLA’s. She also invited representatives to attend a sitting of the legislature, where she would be happy to introduce them.

There was also a continuation from the previous day meetings of the discussion of the key issues impacting charter schools. A summary document will be presented at the January 16, 17 TAAPCS meeting in Red Deer. The TAAPCS executive members have prepared a document to deal with some misconceptions about charter schools which has been forwarded to the College of Alberta School Superintendents (CASS). The document is available through the November Board Meeting Drop Box. As well, documents outlining the roles of various partners in education which have been prepared by Alberta Education were discussed at the October 24, TAAPCS meeting. Copies of the documents are available through the November Board Meeting Drop Box. By all accounts the October 25, Alberta Charter Schools Conference 2013 was an outstanding success! The involvement of over 550 participants from the 13 charter schools in the province exceeded all expectations and the program highlighting innovative and exemplary practices in charter schools was greatly appreciated. The Calgary Science School was very well represented and it was so good to hear the many comments of positive informal feedback from those who attended sessions facilitated by CSS presenters. Our Deputy Minister Greg Bass was very impressed with the conference and he appreciated the opportunity to be part of it. He knows a lot about the Calgary Science School through our joint ventures with Rocky View and he has a very high regard for the exemplary work of our staff. He indicated that he would be very interested in visiting the school and he would welcome an opportunity for an informal dialogue with the staff and Board of Directors. The organizers of the conference were hoping it would go beyond a one-‐day learning activity and that participants would make connections and establish opportunities for learning together and learning from each other in keeping with the theme of "Living the Challenge of Transforming Education" . CSS staff members have made the best of the opportunity for networking and building on what they learned from the day.

3. Education Plan and Annual Educational Results Report-‐Members of the leadership

team have been involved in making reference to the board’s strategic plan and feedback that has been received from students, parents and staff through surveys, interviews and focus groups as a report on the past school year and an education plan for the next three school years is prepared for submission to Alberta Education. The


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Education Plan and Annual Educational Results Report will be presented for approval at the November 19 meeting of the Board of Directors.

4. Update on School Activities-‐

5. Mount Royal University Memorandum of Understanding-‐

In April 2013 the Calgary Science School was officially designated as a University of Calgary, Faculty of Education, Partner Research School and since that time the school has been involved in a number of joint ventures involving the University of Calgary, Faculty of Education (now known as the Werklund School of Education) and other school jurisdictions and educational organizations. Over the past several months there have been discussions with representatives of Mount Royal University to formalize partnerships in teacher preparation which have been established through the years. In response to a proposal to establish a Memorandum of Understanding involving MRU and the Calgary Science School, a letter of intent has been prepared. The members of the Board of Directors will be asked to pass a motion indicating support for the participation of the Calgary Science School in the partnership with Mount Royal University as outlined in the following letter of intent: November 20, 2013

Mount Royal University, Department of Education and Schooling,

Letter of Intent-Teacher Preparation and Professional Learning Proposal

Thank you very much for preparing this proposal for collaboration as a follow-up to the October 3, 2013 meeting involving representatives of the Calgary Science School and representatives of the Department of Education and Schooling at Mount Royal University. We welcome the opportunity to build on the very positive relationship we have established with Mount Royal University through a variety of very successful initiatives and joint ventures through the years. We welcome the opportunity to formalize through this letter of intent, our commitment to participating in the proposal to collaboratively provide an engaging learning experience for MRU teacher candidates and faculty members as well as the members of the Calgary Science School Community.

As a school community we have benefited significantly from serving as a partner school for practicum students from the University of Calgary and the University of Lethbridge as well as Mount Royal University. As was mentioned in our discussion, we believe that we could accommodate five or six MRU students each semester in addition to practicum students from the other university teacher preparation programs. We would like to discuss further the possibility of increasing the number of MRU practicum students each semester by having them work as teams with a partner teacher.


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We are very interested in pursuing the possibility of piloting an extended practice practicum experience and we would welcome an opportunity to explore this possibility further with Mount Royal University and to work out some of the details.

As you are aware, from our meeting, our administrators and board members have been working closely with the ASCCA Board and Executive Director Greg Shyba in developing and promoting the proposal for the Alberta Centre for Environmental and Outdoor Learning. As well, our teachers and students have benefited significantly from the opportunity to use the site as a living laboratory and to be involved in a number of engaging research projects. We see tremendous potential in partnering with Mount Royal University in utilizing the Cross Conservation Area for joint ventures focusing on integrating math/science education studies.

Over the past two years Calgary Science School teachers have been involved in completing over 25 research and innovation projects in the school through the board-funded Research and Innovation initiative, which have involved action research projects focusing on exemplary learning, teaching and leading. As a school community we place a high priority on promoting and facilitating professional learning and in addition to the 16 days that are allocated in the school year for professional learning activities, our teachers are involved in a variety of professional learning experiences within the school and beyond which provide them opportunities to learn together and learn from each other. We see tremendous potential in your proposed capstone course for enhancing the professional learning experiences of our teachers.

We have had some very positive experiences with school seminars, which have been provided through the University of Calgary, Faculty of Education for their practicum students in our school. We have found that the university faculty and students have benefited from the opportunity to explore learning and teaching through a common understanding of the context for learning and teaching by being together in the school. We would welcome an opportunity to pursue similar arrangements with Mount Royal University for offering school seminars for practicum students. In addition to the proposed in-school seminars we believe there is significant merit in the proposal to have in-school university courses and we would actively engage our teaching staff in supporting this proposal and contributing to the authenticity of this learning experience.

As noted, we do have some concerns in regard to the number of Mount Royal University students we could accommodate at any given time, however, we are strongly committed to working in partnership with MRU to successfully achieve the stated objectives in the proposal. We welcome an opportunity to continue the dialogue and to develop and implement a plan of action.

Sincerely yours,

Mr. Darrell Lonsberry Principal

Dr. Garry McKinnon Superintendent

Calgary Science School Society Board Meeting December 17, 2013


December 17, 2013 at the Calgary Science School

Board members present: Harold Lemieux (Chair), Wendy Baillie (Vice Chair), Tim Edwards, Lindsay Hogan, Denise Kitagawa, Dr. Ashley Nixon, Gavin Peat, Dave Robinson, Dale Ronsky, Jeff Turner and Dr. Norm Vaughan. Board members absent: Luana Comin-‐Sartor, Allison Earl, Chas Filipiski, David McKenzie and Debra Scott. Staff present: Dr. Garry McKinnon (Superintendent), Darrell Lonsberry (Principal), Dr. Phil Butterfield (Assistant Principal), Scott Petronech (Assistant Principal) and Myra Penberthy (Secretary Treasurer). Board Chair Mr. Harold Lemieux declared a quorum and called the meeting to order at 6:09 p.m. Motion 36.13 by Tim Edwards, THAT the December 17, 2013 board meeting agenda be approved. Carried Motion 37.13 by Lindsay Hogan,

THAT the minutes of the November 19, 2013 Board meeting #1 and #3 be approved. Carried

Motion 38.13 by Dale Ronsky, THAT Policy 7.02 School Council be approved as amended. Carried Motion 39.13 by Denise Kitagawa, THAT Policy 4.08 Employee Conduct be approved. Carried Motion 40.13 by Denise Kitagawa, THAT Policy 4.01 Employee Relations be approved as amended. Carried Motion 41.13 by Norm Vaughan, THAT Policy 4.09 Disclosure (Whistleblower) Policy be approved. Carried Communications Committee, Lindsay Hogan

• January 6, 2013 is the operational starting date for the new name “Connect Charter School”. • Ms. Hogan presented the budget for the name change. It includes exterior signage, extra signs

above exterior side doors, classroom door covers, stationery expenses and funds for a celebration event on February 12, 2013.

• Ms. Hogan expressed appreciation for the work of the administration and staff in preparing for the transition to a new name.

• Reference was made to the preparation of a communications document and news release for the “Connect Charter School” transition which Ms. Baillie is spearheading.

• The February 12, 2013 assembly will be a celebration of the new name and consideration is being given to providing a small momento for staff and students.

Facilities Committee, Tim Edwards • The committee met on December 17, 2013 and discussed the proposed lease agreement and

plans for utilizing the approximately $15,000 remaining in the budget for facilities enhancement.


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Motion 42.13 by Lindsay Hogan, THAT the Board allocate up to $15,000 for rebranding initiatives resulting from the name

change as recommended by the Communications Committee. Carried

Dr. Garry McKinnon discussed the history behind the CBE Lease agreement which expires in July 2014. CBE has proposed a new lease agreement for 5 years. Alberta Education and CBE have been informed of the desire of the board to have a lease which corresponds to the renewed charter up to 2027 and of the request of the Board to have a school facility made available to serve as a second campus. Governance Committee, Harold Lemieux

• No meeting School Council, Denise Kitagawa

• No report

Research & Innovation Committee, Dr. Norm Vaughan • Ms. Deidre Bailey has completed her project on assessment for inquiry. • Ms. Jody Pereverzoff has been approved for a Research and Innovation project which also

relates to assessment for inquiry.

External Collaboration Committee, Dr. Norm Vaughan • No meeting this month. • Mr. Dan McWilliams and Ms. Erin Couillard are actively involved in organizing the May 23-‐25,

2013, “Innovate West” Conference which will be hosted at Connect Charter School. School Operations, Denise Kitagawa

• Next meeting in January. Secretary Treasurer’s Report, Myra Penberthy

• See Attachment “A” for the Secretary Treasurer’s report

Motion 43.13 by Denise Kitagawa, THAT a General Meeting of the Calgary Science School Society be held on Saturday January 25,

2014 at 11:30am to make a submission in accordance with the Alberta Societies Act to consider a Special Resolution to change the name of the Society to Connect Charter School Society.

Carried

Leadership Team Report, Dr. Garry McKinnon, Darrell Lonsberry, Phil Butterfield & Scott Petronech • See Attachment “B” for the leadership team report.

Motion 44.13 by Wendy Baillie, THAT the meeting terminate at 7:25 p.m. Carried ____________________________ Harold Lemieux, Board Chair


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Attachment “A” Calgary Science School

Board Meeting December 17, 2013


Financial Statements We have completed the financial statements for November 2013 and feel confident that the numbers are an accurate reflection of our position to date. We have an operating loss of $113,000, which is a positive variance of $10,200 to our profiled budget. We have completed the fall camps which are over 50% of our total Outdoor Education expenditures for the year. We have also spent 77% of our Renovations budget. We will be presenting the November quarterly results in January. Board Biographies Darrell Lonsberry, Dan McWilliam and Scott Petronech are working on a new website in conjunction with the new name and logo. This will host the Board biographies, the AFS and the Board minutes. Look forward to the rollout in 2014. For new members I will be taking your pictures tonight. Association of School Business Officials of Alberta (ASBOA) On May 2 – 6th I will be attending the annual ASBOA conference. Our district is hosting this year and I am on the decorating committee. It is the 75th anniversary of ASBOA and our theme will be “Multifaceted Rock-‐solid” to coincide with the Diamond Theme. At the meeting we received an update from our Alberta Education representative Richard Arnold, see The BOSS news and views (Business & Operations Stakeholders Support). Southland Busing Contract Our contract with Southland Transportation will be expiring June 30, 2014. According to the contract if mutually acceptable by both parties and subject to price negotiation, the contract may be extended. In accordance with our fiscal management procedures, we require three quotes for any purchases over $10,000 so we will be conducting a request for proposal (RFP) as part of our tendering process through the Alberta Purchasing Connection (APC) website. Merry Christmas to everyone and thank you for all your great work on the Board! Respectfully submitted, Myra Penberthy


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Attachment “B”

Calgary Science School Superintendent/Leadership Team Report Board of Directors Meeting-December 17, 2013

1. Exemplary Teaching and Learning in the Calgary Science School-‐ Environmental and Outdoor Education-‐One of the descriptors of exemplary teaching makes reference to promoting environmental and global awareness to inspire our students to become informed and active citizens. Mr. Greg Neil, a member of the CSS teaching staff will attend the board meeting to provide an overview of an environmental sustainability plan he has developed through his Research and Innovation project and he will report on the work of a committee of teachers which is developing strategies for promoting environmental awareness and the sustainability of the Calgary Science School facility. The Calgary Science School continues to be involved in exploring opportunities for utilizing the Cross Conservation Area site as a living laboratory and in supporting the Cross Board’s proposal to create the Alberta Centre for Environmental and Outdoor Learning.

2. Grade 4 Environmental Expo-‐Commendations are extended to grade 4 math/science

teachers Marla Paxton and Heather Melville for their leadership in working with their students to organize and environmental Expo which was held in the school library on November 29. The authentic engagement of the students in sharing their research and promoting changes as stewards of our environment was very impressive.There was a high level of energy and enthusiasm in as the students shared their research and ideas with their CSS student colleagues, parents and other guests. The Expo evolved from a class discussion about waste in the world and the students identified and researched issues and through a disposition of inquiry, explored possible solutions. One outcome of the environmental Expo is the involvement of the students in taking the cause beyond their classroom and the school through a petition to promote water as a human right. The involvement of the teachers and students in the Environmental Expo exemplifies the 3E's in Inspiring Education-‐engaging students as learners and providing opportunities for them to make a difference in our world as ethical citizens with an entrepreneurial spirit.

3. Telus Spark Science Communication Mentorship Project-Commendations are extended to Mr. Dan McWilliam Communications and Collaboration Leader and grade 8 math/science teachers Mr. Kevin Sonico and Mr. Garett Kutcher facilitated the involvement of grade 8 students in developing hands on displays to demonstrate key scientific concepts. The students in developing their projects benefited from the mentorship of Telus Spark staff and other outside experts who came to the school to work with the students. The public celebration of learning at Telus Spark on December 4 was a very impressive event as the students demonstrated creativity and innovativeness as they shared their projects with the Telus Spark visitors. There was excellent representation of the Board of Directors with Mr. Lemieux, Mr. Edwards, Ms. Earl and Mr. Ronsky braving the cold evening to support the students and teachers. There was a great deal of enthusiasm generated through the exhibits and the engaging


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hands-on learning experiences. The teachers and students were wonderful ambassadors of the Calgary Science School.

4. Education plan and Annual Educational Results Report-‐ The Annual Educational Results Report 2012-‐2013 and Education Plan 2013 – 2016 document which was at the November 19 meeting of the Board of Directors has been enhanced with pictures and graphics and posted on the school website. As well, a two-‐page summary of the document which is also available in the Dropbox has been posted. This is a document that you may wish to refer to in highlighting the work of the school.

5. Making the transition to Connect Charter School-‐We have been involved in notifying Alberta Education, the Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools (TAAPCS) and various organizations involved with our school. We have also been identifying items that we would like to have taken care of by January 1 and those that will be longer term. We have tentatively identified Wednesday, February 12 as a date for the official celebration of the renaming of the school. We are working with the Communications Committee in developing a transition plan which will be shared at the board meeting. The notice of the change in name of the school is as follows:

On behalf of the Calgary Science School Board of Directors, we wish to inform you that the Board of Directors following a lengthy process of consultation, passed a resolution at the November 19, 2013 meeting to change the name of the Calgary Science School to Connect Charter School, effective January 1, 2014.

The Board chose Connect Charter School as the name which best represents our school, its goals and guiding principles, which were articulated in the fifteen year charter renewal approved by the Minister of Education, the Hon. Jeff Johnson in July 2012. Connect reflects the emphasis of the school on:

• Connecting with and engaging all students and striving to have every one succeed as an

engaged learner and ethical citizen with an entrepreneurial spirit; • Connecting learning and teaching while making learning experiences authentic and

meaningful through a disposition of inquiry; • Connecting learning experiences to real life experiences and understanding the

interconnectedness of the world in which we live; • Connecting and enhancing learning and teaching through the appropriate use of

technology; • Connecting to the environment through a rich variety of outdoor and environmental

learning experiences; • Connecting as researchers and developing a deep understanding through research and • Connecting through collaboration in the classroom, throughout the school and beyond.

We believe that Connect appropriately describes our emphasis, in keeping with our mandate as a charter school, on promoting collaboration, developing exemplary and innovative practices in learning, teaching and leadership, enhancing learning and teaching through partnerships and joint ventures and providing opportunities to connect with colleagues in education.


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Thank you for sharing the news of our new name within your organization and with our colleagues in education. We have valued our excellent working relationship through the years and we appreciate your significant support for the work of our school. We are strongly committed to building on all that the Calgary Science School has accomplished and represented and we will value your continued active involvement as we move forward as Connect Charter School.

Yours in public education,

Mr. Harold Lemieux, Dr. Garry McKinnon, Mr. Darrell Lonsberry, Board Chair Superintendent Principal

6. Alberta Education and the Association of Alberta Public Charter Schools (TAAPCS) Meetings-‐

1) December 6-Deputy Minister’s Meeting with Alberta school superintendents-Leduc

2) November 29-Charter school executive committee meeting-Red Deer 3) January 16 - Charter School Superintendents meeting and TAAPCS Board

Chairs, Directors Superintendents meeting-1:00 PM Sheraton Hotel, Red Deer) 4) January 17-TAAPCS General Meeting-8:30 AM to 3:30 PM-Sheraton Hotel

Red Deer 5) January 30- Alberta Education Teacher Workforce Planning Committee-

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