APPROVED
MONUMENT ACADEMY
BOARD OF DIRECTORS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
Jane B. Lundeen Library
February 19, 2015 – 1150 Village Ridge Point
Mission Statement: The mission of Monument Academy is to provide a challenging, content –
rich, academic program offered within an engaging, caring, and positive learning environment.
Established on a solid foundation of knowledge, Monument Academy emphasizes academic
excellence, respect, responsibility, character and exemplary citizenship.
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A. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL/QUORUM/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Jason Douglas.
Members present:
Jason Douglas, President
Mario Ciabarra, Vice President
Sonya Camarco, Treasurer
Jason Castro, Secretary
Andy Gifford, Director
Others present:
Don Griffin, Executive Director
Lis Richard, Principal
Nancy Tive, Director of Finance
Amy Madruga, Board Recording Secretary
Michael Herbert, Middle School Teacher Rep.
Charles Richardson, Elementary Teacher Rep.
Excused
Tim Matson, Director
Quorum declared.
B. ANNOUNCEMENT OF LOCATION OF CITIZENS’ COMMENTS SIGN-UP SHEET
C. ADDITIONS TO/APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Mr. Ciabarra made a motion to remove the SAC Survey Summaries from the agenda. SAC
Survey Summaries was Item 5 and will be removed. This will move “Next Meeting” from Item
6 to Item 5.
Mr. Gifford seconded and the motion passed unanimously.
D. CITIZEN’S COMMENTS: Limit 3 minutes per person
Amy Torrence, parent – Mrs. Torrence came to express thanks to board members for serving on
the board and for their time commitment. She encouraged the board to keep their resolve in
defense of the school’s mission statement.
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E. BUSINESS
1. Treasurer’s Report – Mrs. Camarco
General Fund:
Revenue through January 31, 2015 for the 2014/2015 School Year
Revenue for the month of January 2015 was $533,696 compared to a monthly budgeted amount
of $520,843 and compared to the same month last year of $465,473. An unbudgeted receipt of
ELPA (English Language Proficiency Act) funds of $11,061 occurred in January 2015. Also
during the month of January 2015, MA received $35,844 from D38 for the reconciliation of last
fiscal year’s buybacks. The $68,223 increase over the prior year was mainly due to increased
PPR in the current year plus the reconciliation and ELPA funds. Year-to-date revenue was
$3,564,687 compared to $3,281,881 for the same period last year. Year-to-date revenue was
60.10% of the original budgeted revenue compared to a run rate of 58.33%. Year-to-date
revenue was higher than last year-to-date revenue because of higher per pupil revenue, additional
full day kindergarten students, increased fee revenue, increased capital construction revenue,
new ELPA revenue and the revenue from the reconciliation with D38.
Expenses through January 31, 2015 for the 2014/2015 School Year
For the month of January 2015, MA expended $459,592 compared to a monthly budgeted
amount of $459,620. Expenses for the month of January 2014 were $449,150. Year-to-date
expenses were $2,896,738 compared to $2,831,413 for the same period last year, and were
51.01% of the revised budgeted amount.
Net Income (Loss)
Net income for the month of January 2015 was $74,104, compared to net income of $16,323 for
January 2014. Year-to-date net income was $667,949 compared to $450,468 for the same period
last year. The main factor for the increase in net income was increased Per Pupil Revenue in the
current year.
Reserves
On January 31, 2015, MA maintained a fund balance of $2,141,512 in the General Fund, as well
as $2,134,631 in its General Fund bank accounts and certificates of deposits. The general fund
balance is up $260,940 or 13.88%, from the same period last year.
Discussion
There was board discussion and questions regarding the general fund and balances of CDs. Mrs.
Camarco explained that the charter mandates that the school must keep a minimum of 50 days
cash on hand. This is approximately $780,000 and the school keeps more than the 50 day
minimum.
2. Principal’s Report – Mrs. Richard
Mrs. Richard gave a verbal report highlighting a few things from her written report. She shared
that she is encouraged about enrollment projections for next year. Assessments and getting most
of the attention in the admin office as the school prepares for upcoming PARCC testing. To date
there are ~108 students who have been opted out of PARCC, CMAS, COALT testing by their
parents. General reasons for opting out include personal objections, common core objections.
Students of all performance levels are opting out of testing. Students will still take NWEA
testing which monitors student progress within the year. In a correction update of her written
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report on the intent surveys, Mrs. Richard stated that 97 surveys were given with 92 indicating
plans to return. 65 of the 97 are teachers. Five are reported as not returning compared to the
four previously reported. All five are teachers. One survey remains unreturned.
Discussion
Q: What activities will the opt out kids have for the day?
A: If a significant number, students may stay in classrooms and receive instruction. If a smaller
number, grade levels will use the gym.
Q: How was the recent DAAC meeting that was held on campus?
A: Mrs. Richard stated that she received positive feedback during the DAAC meeting mostly
about the school in general. One D38 board member was serving on the board back in 1996
when MA first received its charter and that D38 board member was very complimentary of
MA’s growth and success since it started. One attendee of the DAAC meeting was also a former
MA student now in her 20s.
Mrs. Richard’s written report to the board included the following information:
Enrollment
The last month was filled with several events designed to highlight our school. We hosted
many different guests on our campus who are interested in our school. Our efforts have
been received well and our enrollment is looking very strong for next year. All early
indications are showing that we will reach some of our highest enrollment numbers.
Fifth Grade Sneak Peek – Over 100 fifth graders attended and 38 parents came to the
Q&A. The students enjoyed the event and the parents took the full two hours for
questions.
Kindergarten Round Up – 45 perspective kindergarteners and their families were in
attendance. Texas Roadhouse sponsored the event by providing free cowboy hats for all
the children, prizes, and Andy the armadillo was present.
Preschool Open House – Approximately 15 perspective preschoolers and their families
visited our preschool for the first time. The preschool staff provided tours and answered
questions for families.
Informational Night for the community – We had six new families in our community
attend this event. They were presented a power point presentation on Monument
Academy and then had a time of Q&A. Packets of information were given to them as well.
All six families ended up registering their children.
Ongoing Tours – Amy Zarkovacki has been giving tours throughout the month. We have
seen a very steady flow of tours through this open enrollment time.
Advertising – We have done some extra advertising during open enrollment that has
contributed to the steady flow of interest.
Assessments
This year we are testing our third - eighth grade students on the PARCC test for the first
time. We have been sending administrators to weekly trainings at the district. The rules of
proctoring and security of the tests are regularly changing. The laws surrounding
accommodations for the tests are very different from previous years. There is a lot of
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concern about the new tests and exactly what is to be expected. The testing schedules and
the mystery surrounding what to expect from the test has created some stress among the
teachers. We are doing our best to handle all of the details and try to keep the stress
levels in the staff down.
Many of our parents have stressed concern about the practice tests associated with the
PARCC. It is not our practice to stop classroom instruction to teach to any state
assessments. In the training process we have learned that once the students begin their
tests, the proctors cannot help the students in any way. This includes any form of
technical difficulties. If they fail to scroll down, use the navigation tools properly, turn
the page on a story, and more the proctor cannot show them or help them. Even if the
student asks for help they must just say, "Your test is working properly." Due to this, we
have taken time to show the students how to use the on-line tools. The tools used in the
test are very different than normal testing tools students are accustomed to using with
other on-line tests. We also had the expense of purchasing graphing calculators for the
algebra and geometry students.
The testing begins next month and will carry through the month of April.
Unified Improvement Plan
The Unified Improvement Plan was presented to the District Accountability Committee
on February 10th. Monument Academy hosted the meeting for the district. Prior to the
meeting we gave a tour to several individuals. Dr. Griffin welcomed the group to our
school and they proceeded with the meeting. Each school in the district presents their
annual plan. Lewis Palmer Elementary School and Monument Academy were the school
that presented on the 10th.
We had an excellent year in academic achievement, growth, and growth gaps. We
showed no decreases and the state did not require us to set any performance targets. The
reality is that we are not satisfied with our own academic performance. There are areas
that we are addressing and will be working on this year. For the sake of this plan, we
look stellar but for the sake of our own measurements, we have work to do. We will be
addressing our writing this coming year as a focal point.
Intent Surveys
All of the Intent Surveys have been turned in for next year. These are the forms used for
the teachers and staff to indicate their intentions for next year.
Here are the results:
96 Surveys Given
Indicating a desire to return 90
Indicating they will not return
4
Form not turned in
2 (Neither are teachers)
Reasons Given for Not Returning:
Moving – 2
Staying home with new baby – 1
Money – 1 (Two kids entering college next year, returning to former work as an
engineer)
*One teacher who is intending to return did note on her form that her husband is
in the Air Force and he may be getting orders to move.
Board Approved 03/12/2015
Professional Development
Teacher evaluations are ongoing. Our lead teachers are also doing peer evaluations. The
peer evaluations are done on their teammates and serve as times of encouragement and
learning for all. The teachers in the induction program are under close evaluation by
their mentors at this time.
The induction program is two-thirds complete for the year. We have four teachercandidates progressing through the program. They are all doing well and showing
wonderful signs of mastery in their classrooms.
Technology Training this month was largely focused on the elementary teachers. Traci
Trimbach provided several modules of training on their COWs (TV set ups, computer on
wheels) teaching them how to integrate that tool into their curriculum and instruction.
The teachers have provided so much positive feedback.
Academic Training for the teachers has focused on student mastery. This is not a new
concept or idea. This is foundational to Monument Academy. The training has just been
placing an emphasis on something unique to our school.
The mission of Monument Academy is to provide a challenging, content – rich, academic
program offered within an engaging, caring, and positive learning
environment. Established on a solid foundation of knowledge, Monument Academy
emphasizes academic excellence, respect, responsibility, character and exemplary
citizenship.
English Dictionary Definitions:
Academic – ac·a·dem·ic (adjective)
1. Educational, relating to education
2. Scholarly and intellectual
Excellence - ex·cel·lence (noun)
1. Superiority, the quality or state of being outstanding and superior
2. Distinction, quality, merit
3. Antonym – mediocrity
Upholding Character:
What (Character First) traits would exemplify excellence in academics?
Alertness vs. Carelessness
Attentiveness vs. Distraction
Cautiousness vs. Rashness
Creativity vs. Underachievement
Decisiveness vs. Procrastination
Deference vs. Rudeness
Dependability vs. Inconsistency
Determination vs. Faintheartedness
Diligence vs. Laziness
Discernment vs. Shortsightedness
Discretion vs. Recklessness
Endurance vs. Despair
Enthusiasm vs. Apathy
Flexibility vs. Ignorance
Gratefulness vs. Presumption
Humility vs. Arrogance
Initiative vs. Idleness
Justice vs. Corruption
Loyalty vs. Unfaithfulness
Meekness vs. Rage
Obedience vs. Rebellion
Orderliness vs. Confusion
Patience vs. Restlessness
Punctuality vs. Tardiness
Responsibility vs. Unreliability
Self-Control vs. Self-Indulgence
Board Approved 03/12/2015
Sincerity vs. Hypocrisy
Virtue vs. Vice
Thoroughness vs. Incompleteness
Wisdom vs. Foolishness
At Monument Academy we have a mission-driven responsibility to teach to academic
excellence or another way to phrase this would be: mastery teaching/learning. The
emphasis on mastery teaching is not new to our school. It is foundational and part of the
core to our existence. The students deserve teachers who will expect excellence. If a word
is misspelled, they should rewrite it and spell it correctly. If they fail to use their writing
conventions appropriately, they need to do so. If a historical fact is not represented
accurately, they need to research and make the edits.
Our students need to recognize excellence as the standard. It is much like the training
provided to those who identify counterfeit bills. They are never allowed to touch a
counterfeit bill. If and when they ever do touch one, they immediately know their fingers
have touched something less than the real thing. Our students should leave MA knowing
what excellence looks like, sounds like, reads like, writes like, etc. Anything less should
not resonate with their training.
Student Activities
Science Fair was an amazing success this year. We had 30 judges working with our
students on the day of judging. The students and teachers did a great job preparing their
work. We will send 23 students to the Regional Science Fair.
Forensics Club – Our middle school forensics club receives little recognition. They are a
small group of middle school students who compete in regional competitions. Their
competitions are in speech, debate, drama, acting, etc. Our team has taken first overall in
several of their meets this month.
A Drama Team and Music Group from our school will be representing MA in Florida at
Disney World. They leave the week of February 16th for the competition.
Personnel
Interviews are no underway for the openings next year. It is always our desire to fill
those quickly. We have some excellent candidates.
Due to the preliminary results of the open enrollment, it appears that we will need to reopen the bubble class. We are already formulating plans for this. This will cause another
opening for a teacher as well.
3. Executive Director’s Report – Dr. Griffin
Liability Insurance Review – Nancy and I met with Aaron Schwen (MA’s Insurance
representative for worker’s comp and liability insurance). While most of the coverage look is
acceptable, we did ask for a new quote on our worker’s comp policy primarily for price.
District Accountability Advisory Committee (DAAC) – The monthly meeting of D38’s
DAAC was held at Monument Academy on February 10th. The members of the committee, D38
Administration, Principals from the District’s other schools as well as MA’s SAC members,
Principal and Executive Director, attended this public meeting. A tour was offered to those
guests who were first time visitors to our campus.
Board Approved 03/12/2015
Health Insurance Review – Preliminary discussions have already taken place and a review
meeting is scheduled for late February. Currently, we are within parameters of the Affordable
Healthcare Act requirements for next year. Once again, our discussions will be to negotiate an
acceptable increase (something less than 15%).
Discussion
There was no discussion.
4. Work Session Notes – Dr. Griffin
A copy of the notes (see below) from the Board’s work session held on January 15, 2015 was
provided to the Board’s Recording Secretary to be included in the minutes of this meeting.
The Board held a work session on Thursday, January 15, 2015. After adjournment of their
regular monthly meeting, the work session started at 8:20pm and concluded at 9:39pm. Work
session topic: Since the school has grown significantly over the last 5years, does Monument
Academy have an opportunity or need to change its administrative organizational structure.
Discussion included the possibility of a two principal structure with variations of different roles
and responsibilities of an Executive Director, Elementary/Middle school Principals and Vice
Principal. The Board came to the conclusion that the MA administration is properly structured
with a dedicated and talented staff.
5. Next Meeting – Thursday, March 12, 2015
F. ITEMS REQUIRING BOARD DISCUSSION/APPROVAL
1. Discuss/Approve School Calendar for 2015/2016 – Dr. Griffin
Dr. Griffin presented the proposed calendar which has been reviewed and recommended to the
Board for approval by Administration and the MA Scheduling Committee.
The calendar mostly mirrors D38's calendar as far as start and end dates, parent teacher
conference dates, and holiday breaks. The calendar was made as close to D38 as possible so that
families that have students at MA and other D38 schools will have very similar schedules. The
D38 Board of Education approved the District’s calendar for 2015-2016 at their January 16,
2014 meeting.
Dr. Griffin noted that MA would use the first week prior to school for all teachers, new and
returning, to provide professional development training. These days are included in all teachers’
workdays, as we do not take time off throughout the year for professional development like D38,
we use our Friday afternoons and the first week of school for most of this type of training.
The following is a brief synopsis of the number of student days:
Elementary School Total Contact Days:
169 (Monday-Thursday 6.75 contact hours) (Friday 4.08 contact hours)
Board Approved 03/12/2015
Middle School Total Contact Days:
170 (Monday-Thursday 7.27 contact hours) (Friday 4.67 contact hours)
Teacher total work days: 181
Elementary School Students attend from:
8:00 am to 3:05 pm Monday-Thursday and from 8:00 am to 12:05 pm on Friday.
Middle School Students attend from:
7:40 am to 3:20 pm Monday-Thursday and from 7:40 am to 12:20 pm on Friday.
With the proposed 2015-2016 calendar we will have the following days over the state mandated
hours/days:
Elementary School will have approximately 9 days over the state mandated hours/days.
Middle School will have approximately 10 days over the state mandated hours/days.
Mr. Ciabarra made a motion to approve the 2015-2016 calendar as presented. Mr. Castro
seconded the motion. Mr. Douglas called for the vote. The motion passed unanimously.
The calendar is attached as Appendix A
2. Discuss/Approve Longevity Bonus Pay Policy 1524 – Dr. Griffin
Dr. Griffin submitted the draft policy for consideration for Mr. Matson as he had a scheduling
conflict and was excused from tonight’s meeting. The Governance Committee is submitting
policy 1524 for the Board's consideration after it received legal review and approval. The intent
of the policy is that it will give MA a tool to retain great teachers and improve morale among
employees as well as giving the Board enough flexibility to meet the budget constraints of the
school during the coming years.
Bonus will be offered to all employees on contract on August 1 and will apply to all employees
from teachers, to paras, to professional staff and is based on years of service.
Mrs. Camarco made a motion to approve Policy 1524, which establishes the payment for a
longevity bonus to be paid annually to all qualified employees. Mr. Ciabarra seconded the
motion.
Discussion
Q: What is the approximate cost for next year?
A: $25,0000
Mr. Douglas called for the vote. The motion passed unanimously.
Policy 1524 Longevity Bonus Pay is attached as Appendix B to these minutes.
Board Approved 03/12/2015
3. Discuss/Approve Revision of Financial Stability Goal Metrics – Mrs. Camarco
Mrs. Camarco presented a revision of the current metrics for the Financial Stability Goal due to
the refunding of our bonds and the removal of prior covenants. She noted the Finance
Committee has reviewed the revised Financial Stability Goal Metrics and recommends the Board
approval.
Mrs. Camarco made a motion to approve the revised metrics as presented. Mr. Douglas
seconded the motion. Mr. Douglas called for the vote. The motion passed unanimously.
The revised metrics are attached as Appendix C to these minutes.
4. Discuss/Approve Revision of the 2014-15 Expense Appropriation – Mrs. Camarco
As a result of MA refunding its bond debt two-years ahead of schedule, Mrs. Camarco asked the
Board to consider two additional expenditures in this fiscal year in order to get some of the
refunding savings into the pockets of the staff. She presented two suggestions:
Special One-Time Longevity Bonus – Using Policy 1524 as a basis, the Board was asked to
approve a one-time payment no later than June 30, 2015 as a reward for MA employees’ service
thru this school year. Qualified full time employees will receive a bonus of $100 - $500 based
on their years of service while part time employees will receive a bonus of $50 - $400 based on
their years of service. The total expense is $26,296.
Salary Adjustments – The Board was asked to approve adjustments for both professional and
hourly staff under our current salary step program. Administration has already completed a
review of all employees and based on this review, adjustments will be made to the step
minimums. Any employee’s current pay, which is below the funded level, will receive a
prorated monthly increase no later than their April payroll check and spread through the
remainder of their current contract. If an employee’s current pay is at or above the funded level,
no increase will be seen in their payroll check. The total expense is $25,423.
Creation and Hire of Media Specialist/Technical Support – The Board was given information
about the proposal to hire an additional technical support staff person. This is needed to free up
the Educational Technology Director to focus on one on one training with the classroom teacher
to make the existing and future technology tools successful and enriching to the learning process.
After further understanding and discussion with operations leadership, the hire of a media
specialist/technical support person would best resolve this need. This new hire would focus on
multi-media support for students and teachers. With the use of iPads by teachers and increased
student technology use (Canvas, etc.) more tech support is needed. There is an immediate need
for this hire that would impact expenses this fiscal year. The position salary and benefits would
be included in the 2015-16 budget.
Mrs. Camarco expressed thanks to Mr. Herbert and Mr. Richardson for taking the time to review
and discuss these proposals.
Discussion
Q: Referring to the tech support new hire, isn’t that part of Traci Trimbach’s positon?
A: Yes, that is what she was doing but she is also over assessments and has been attending
training as well supporting Mr. Cunningham in assessment preparations since Mrs. Hart’s
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departure last December. Mrs. Richard and Dr. Griffin support the proposal that additional
staffing is needed for technical support. Integration with education (curriculum) is under Mrs.
Trimbach. The new hire would focus on web based and data based media as well as help tickets
on student needs. Mr. Brooks continues to supports IT and help desk support.
Q: Would this be a full time hire with work in the summer or follow the school calendar?
A: Yes, the position would be full time with approximately 220-240 contract days. Salary
quoted in board notebook is full year with benefits and PERA included.
Mrs. Douglas made a motion to approve the funding of the Special One-Time Longevity Bonus
and Salary Adjustments and Creation and Hire of Media Specialist/Technical Support as
presented. Mr. Gifford seconded the motion. Mr. Douglas called for the vote. The motion
passed unanimously.
5. Discuss/Approve Middle School iPad Program – Mr. Gifford
Mr. Gifford presented the Curriculum Report on the Monument Academy Middle School 1:1
iPad Program. The Board Proposal Summary included the following:
The following is a proposal for the MA Board to review and vote to approve at the 2/19/2015
meeting regarding the implementation of a 1:1 iPad for the middle school students. This is
essentially a revisit of the original plan that was brought to the MA Board in the spring of 2014,
in which efforts to fund externally were not successful. The curriculum committee established a
sub- committee in January to research, primarily, funding possibilities, but ultimately touched on
key points related use/abuse policy, cost, training (including ethics), accountability, security and
safety around the devices and how they will be used as tools to enrich the existing and future
curriculum.
Key points of the proposal:
- MA will purchase an iPad, protective covering and repair/replacement insurance for all
middle school students grades 6th-8th.
- MA will collect an additional $75 per student Technology fee annually: Insurance,
replacement/repair, device cover
- MA will make additional required infrastructure improvements and purchase all
applications related to curriculum needs
- Parents may purchase the iPad at any time or bring their own compliant iPad for use in
the classroom; however, as the signed usage policy/agreement states, the device will
remain under the control of MA until the student is no longer enrolled.
- MA needs continuous hands on teacher training on how to integrate the apps to their
curriculum and learn to how best to use their iPad to interact in real-time with all students
and their iPads.
Dependencies/Fiscal Validation:
1. As a result of the committee’s efforts it has been revealed that MA needs additional
technology staffing assistance as discussed by Mrs. Camarco and approved by the board
in Item 4 business actions.
2. All expenses, including the additional technical staff mentioned above, were discussed
with a finance committee representative and presented under Item 4 above.
Board Approved 03/12/2015
Financial Summary:
The complete report/recommendation was provided to Board members prior to the meeting.
Discussion
There was significant discussion between all board members regarding the proposal. Mr.
Gifford answered questions during the discussion and recommended that a website be created to
show documents created by the committee. Documents include the user policy, parent FAQs as
well as information on ethics training for students and parents and all documents are included in
Appendix D along with the complete report from the Curriculum Committee.
Q: Do we have a current Technology Fee?
A: No. This fee is new and for MS students only. If fees are not paid, the student will not
receive an iPad. Any FRL or parents with stated financial need will be provided with an iPad so
that financial burden will not prevent a student from receiving a device.
Q: Do they keep them over the summer?
A: No, the devices will be handled like a text book and handed in at the end of the school year.
Q: If parents purchase, do you avoid the tech fee? Or what is the benefit?
A: No, the tech fee is still required to cover the cost of device covers, aps, insurance,
maintenance, etc. The committee wanted to present an option for students to bring their own
based on feedback at the town hall meeting last year. There was strong support for parents to
purchase their own however the device must meet a very specific list of requirements if
purchased outside of school. And if done so, the device will be under the control of MA during
the school year and other games/aps will not be permitted on the device.
Board Approved 03/12/2015
Q: Requiring the fee even if parents buy their own device may discourage parents from buying
their own. Wouldn’t it be more beneficial if parents buy their own?
A: Providing all students with a device is the direction the committee chose to present to
proposal. Even if parents purchase their own, MA will still incur costs for infrastructure and cost
for device covers along with other costs that the fee is intended to cover. Also, even if parents
purchase their own device, students cannot use it for non-school sanctioned activities (aps,
games, etc.) The bulk of parent buy-outs are expected to come from 8th grade students as they
move on to high school. D38 High Schools are reportedly also looking into iPad
implementation.
There was additional board discussion on one-time costs compared to ongoing/recurring costs
and how this will impact the surplus in the 2015-16 budget.
Q: How are we doing in MS with the iPads currently in use by teachers? Is there feedback from
teachers, principal on who iPads have affected instruction?
A: Mrs. Richard discussed the view that iPads should be seen as tools that enhance instruction.
The instruction of teachers should not change drastically or dramatically. The teachers who are
self-motivated to use technology are already going full ahead with use. Those that are not selfmotivated are doing less in the classroom but Mrs. Richard has not pushed them or mandated a
specific requirement.
Q: What is the target usage (hrs/day) by students?
A: The devices would be used in every class. The curriculum committee could create a metric
or expectation of usage. There could also be a review of device implementation during the
teachers’ evaluations throughout the year.
There was unanimous support from the curriculum committee in favor of moving forward with
iPad implementation. There are eleven teachers on the curriculum committee.
Mr. Douglas made a motion to approve the proposal as presented. Mr. Ciabarra seconded the
motion. Mr. Douglas called for the vote. The motion passed unanimously.
The complete Curriculum report/recommendation are attached as Appendix D to these
minutes.
G. CONSENT AGENDA:
1.Committee and other reports (Building/Facilities, Curriculum, RDC, Executive Director,
Principal, Finance, Foundation, PTO, Teacher Reps.).
2. Approve minutes from January 15, 2015 meeting.
H. ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned at 8:08p.m.
Board Approved 03/12/2015
Appendix A – 2015-2016 School Calendar (one page)
SchoolCalendarDraft2/1.29.2015
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Back to School Events (dates and times to be determined)
New Student Assessment (date and time to be determined)
10-17 NO SCHOOL-Teacher Workdays
18
Middle School Orientation - 1/2 day-dismissed at 12:20 pm
6th grade only report at 7:40 am
7th and 8th grade report at 8:30 am
19
First Day of School -All Students-Preschool through 8th
21
Full Day Friday-Kindergarten through 8th
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
1
2
3
4
5
6
SEPTEMBER
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
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17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
S
M
S
AUGUST
7
NO SCHOOL–Labor Day
10/9—1st Qtr Ends
(38 days)
OCTOBER
15-16 NO SCHOOL–Parent Teacher Conferences
FEBRUARY
DECEMBER
14-17 7th & 8th Grade-1st Semester Final Exams
17
LAST DAY OF SCHOOL before Winter Break
Early Dismissal, 1/2 day for ALL students
NO PM Kindergarten
12/17— Qtr Ends
ES Dismissed at 12:05 pm
(42 days)
MS dismissed at 12:20 pm
End of 1st Semester
18-31 NO SCHOOL–Winter Break
T
W
T
F
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
S
M
T
F
S
1
2
80 days
Monument Academy Information Nights
(dates and times to be determined)
1
NO SCHOOL-Winter Break
4
NO SCHOOL–Teacher Workday
5
Classes Resume
18
NO SCHOOL—Martin Luther King Day
29
Kindergarten Roundup-No AM, PM or Full Day
Kindergarten classes
APRIL
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
Science Fair (dates and times to be determined)
15
NO SCHOOL–Presidents Day
S
M
T
W
T
F
S
MARCH
1
2
3
4
5
6
T
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
21-25 NO SCHOOL–Spring Break
4
5
APRIL
11
12
15
W
F
1
2
3
8
9
10
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
School Hours
K (full day)-5th grade
8:00 am–3:05 pm Mon-Thurs
8:00 am–12:05 pm Friday
6th-8th grade
7:40 am–3:20 pm Mon-Thurs
7:40 am–12:20 pm Friday
Preschool hours vary, please see
preschool information on the
website for more details.
T
4
S
T
W
3
FEBRUARY
DECEMBER
7
F
4
JANUARY
S
6
T
3
23-27 NO SCHOOL–Thanksgiving Break
18
M
W
MARCH
11
S
Address: 1150 Village Ridge Point, Monument, CO 80132
Phone: 719-481-1950 Website: www.monumentacademy.net
NOVEMBER
OCTOBER
S
T
2015-2016 School Calendar
1
2
M
MAY
3/11—3rd Qtr Ends
(47 days)
NO SCHOOL–Teacher Workday
K-8th Parent /Teacher Conferences upon request
Preschool Conferences Scheduled
MAY
13
13
17
19
20
Preschool Last Day
Kindergarten Graduation
8th Grade Graduation
LAST DAY OF SCHOOL 1st-7th
ES dismissed at 12:05 pm
MS dismissed at 12:20 pm
Teacher Work Day and Check Out
5/19—4th Qtr Ends
(43 days)
End of 2nd Semester
90 days
170 Middle School student contact days
169 Elementary School student contact days
181 Teacher Workdays
At the discretion of the administration, full day Fridays may be
called if necessary due to snow days or other unforeseen
circumstances affecting total student contact/instructional hours.
School Hours
Kindergarten 1/2 days
AM: 8:00 am-11:00 am Mon-Thurs
AM: 8:00 am-12:05 pm every Friday
PM: 12:00 pm-3:00 pm Mon-Thurs
PM: 8:00 am-12:05 pm every Friday
= No School
= Teacher Workdays
= Important
= Middle School
Dates
Orientation Day
Board Approved 03/12/2015
Appendix B – Policy 1524 Longevity Bonus Pay (two pages)
Board of Directors Governance and Policy
Policy Area : Finance
Title : Longevity Bonus Pay
Policy # :
Adopted :
Revised :
Revised:
1524
Issue Statement
The recruitment and retention of well-qualified and highly motivated staff is a top priority of
the Board. It is understood that competitive compensation and school-sponsored benefits
are the fundamental basis for long-term employment. It is also understood that
recognition of the loyalty and service by the staff at Monument Academy plays an
important roll in the retention of that staff.
Policy Statement
A. The Board desires to establish a Longevity Bonus for full and part time employees
in recognition of continuous years of service to Monument Academy.
B. The Longevity Bonus will be paid to full and part time employees who as of August
31st have completed a continuous and complete year of service. This service will
determine the number of years of employment to be used in the calculations for the
amount of bonus to be paid. The policy does not apply to substitutes or seasonal
workers.
C. The Longevity Bonus will be paid to eligible full and part time employees who as of
October 1, remain under contract or employment agreement and are in good
standing. An employee on an improvement plan, under conduct review, has
resigned or any other type of disciplinary action will not qualify for the Longevity
Bonus.
D. After October 1, the Finance Department will calculate the Longevity Bonus as
follows:
Full-Time Employees (at least 30 hours or more per week) with:
1-year of service:
$100.00
2-4 years of service:
$200.00
5-9 years of service:
$300.00
10 or more years of service:
$500.00
Board Approved 03/12/2015
Part-Time Employees (less than 30 hours per week) with:
1-year of service:
$ 50.00
2-4 years of service:
$100.00
5-9 years of service:
$200.00
10 or more years of service:
$400.00
E. The Longevity Bonus will be paid in the month of October.
F. The Longevity Bonus is subject to all applicable taxes, withholdings, etc. as
required by law and is the responsibility of the employee. The amount received by
the employee will be net of any and all of these withholdings.
G. The Longevity Bonus will be approved annually by the Board and at their discretion
may suspend or terminate the Longevity Bonus without notice.
Related Documents
Monument Academy Employee Handbook
Points of Contact
A.
The following positions shall serve as points of contact for the enforcement of this
policy: President of the Board of Directors, Treasurer of the Board of Directors and
the Executive Director.
2
Board Approved 03/12/2015
Appendix C – Revised Financial Stability Goal Metrics (one page)
Strategic Goal - Financial Stability
Maintain Monument Academy's fiscal stability with regards to year-to-year
budgeting and maintain an A bond rating.
Performance Measure #1 - Debt Service Coverage Ratio
Use
This performance measure is used by the market in credit ratings and to assess
income statement strength.
Data
(Annual Net Income + Building Rentals + Other Discretionary Items) /
Current Year Debt Service (Principal Repayment + Interest payments)
Frequency
Calculate and review semi-annually
Blue
Green
Yellow
Red
Exceeds Target
> 1.15
At Target
1.00 - 1.15
Below target - needs to be watched
Below Target - needs immediate action
Year
2014/2015
0.9 - 1.00
<.09
Results
1.25
Performance Measure #2 - Reserve / Debt Ratio
Use
This performance measure assesses balance sheet strength
Data
Reserves / Outstanding Debt
Frequency
Calculate and review semi-annually
Blue
Green
Yellow
Red
Exceeds Target
At Target
Below target - needs to be watched
Below Target - needs immediate action
Ratio increases
Ratio increases
Ratio increases
Ratio decreases
> 12%
10% - 12%
8% - 10%
< 8%
Results
2014/2015
14.5%
Performance Measure #3 - Reserves / Current Year Debt Service
Use
This performance measure assesses balance sheet strength
Data
Reserves /Current Year Debt Service
Frequency
Calculate and review semi-annually
Blue
Green
Red
Exceeds Target
> 1.6
At Target
1.57 - 1.6
Below Target - needs immediate action
Year
2014/2015
< 1.57
Results
2.21
Board Approved 03/12/2015
Appendix D: Curriculum Report/Recommendations on Middle School iPad Program (18
pages)
Monument Academy Middle School 1:1 iPad Program – Board Proposal Summary
The following pages are a proposal for the MA Board to review and vote to approve at the 2/19/2015 meeting regarding the implementation of a 1:1 iPad for the middle school students. This is essentially a revisit of the original plan that was brought to the MA
Board in the spring of 2014, in which efforts to fund externally were not successful. The curriculum committee established a subcommittee in January to research, primarily, funding possibilities, but ultimately touched on key points related use/abuse policy,
cost, training (including ethics), accountability, security and safety around the devices and how they will be used as tools to enrich
the existing and future curriculum.
Key points of the proposal:
- MA will purchase an iPad, protective covering and repair/replacement insurance for all middle school students grades 6th-8th.
- MA will collect an additional $75 per student Technology fee annually
- MA will make additional required infrastructure improvements and purchase all applications related to curriculum needs
- Parents may purchase the iPad at any time or bring their own compliant iPad for use in the classroom; however, as the signed
usage policy/agreement states, the device will remain under the control of MA until the student is no longer enrolled.
- MA needs continuous hands on teacher training on how to integrate the apps to their curriculum and learn to how best to use
their iPad to interact in real-time with all students and their iPads.
Financial Summary:
Dependencies/Fiscal Validation:
1. As a result of the committee’s efforts it has been revealed that MA needs additional technology staffing assistance to
free up the Educational Technology Director to focus on one on one training with the classroom teacher to make the
existing and future technology tools successful and enriching to the learning process. This need is not being driven by
this proposal but exists currently and is recommended to be actioned as soon as possible regardless of the proposal’s
outcome. After further understanding and discussion with operations leadership, the hire of a media specialist/
technical support person would best resolve this need.
2. All expenses, including the additional technical staff mentioned above, were discussed with a finance committee representative and can be included in the proposed budget for the coming years, while maintaining the other fiscal goals
previously discussed by the MA Board. Sonya Camarco can comment further on the finance scope during our discussion at the meeting.
Board Approved 03/12/2015
Proposal Prepared for: Monument Academy Board of Directors
Proposal Prepared by: Technology Committee
Don Griffin
Executive Director
*Lis Richard
Principal
Andy Brooks
Director of Informational Technology
*Traci Trimbach
Director of Educational Technology
Andy Gifford
Board Representative, IT Professional with Oracle, Parent
Charlie Richardson
Teacher, Teacher Representative to Board
Michael Herbert
Teacher, Teacher Representative to Board
Pete Gordon
Teacher, Parent
Lisanne McNew
Parent, Professor at UCCS, Entrepreneur
Keith Steflik
Parent, Director of IT at GH Phipps Construction
Steve Harmon
Parent, Commercial Pilot for Frontier Airlines, USAFA Professor
*Hold endorsement in Technology Education
A committee was formed to discuss the possibility and further decide the process needed to implement a
one-to-one implementation of iPads in the middle school. The committee that was formed this year consists
of parents who stated an interest and desire to be part of the process, administrators who would be key
members in implementation, teachers who are actively involved in using these tools, and the board representative to the curriculum committee.
The committee has been active and decisive in their meetings. The culmination of these meetings is presented in this proposal.
Preface:
Monument Academy Middle School is a vibrant and challenging school. The excellent curriculum, teachers,
and programs that we solidified over the last few years have strengthened our program. The additional tools
discussed in this proposal are additions to a fabulous academic program and will provide a leading edge to
our students.
February 2015
Board Approved 03/12/2015
2
Background:
The journey and decision to choose an Apple product has been a long one. The ultimate decision arose out of need. Six years ago, a
request for funds was written to the school board for $25,000.00 for a mobile lab cart. This was approved and operational after
about six months’ time. This was the beginning of a new way of engagement with students. It was also the beginning of challenges.
Not only did our students have access to a lab environment but they also had access to the laptops in their classrooms on a limited
basis. This lab grew in demand. The need for another lab was immediate and another was purchased.
The mobile labs were under constant strain and use. Teachers valued the fact that their students could work in tandem with immediate instruction and fact gathering. More could be accomplished in a class period.
Four years ago our middle school teachers had projectors installed in all of their rooms. These enhanced their instruction and enabled many of the teachers to utilize some integration of technology. Three years ago in the middle school we added online text in
two subjects. The demand for this technology from the teachers became taxing in the last two school years. The mobile labs could
not keep up with the constant demands and were in constant disrepair. The teachers were discouraged with limited use due to
constant testing requirements and no availability of the mobile carts. The students missed the opportunity to engage with the
teacher in the learning process.
All of the factors mentioned above and the fact that we were piloting the idea of a tablet in a science classroom led us to research
the thought of every student having their own mobile device. The teachers brought this to the administration early in the past
school year, wanting to do more for their students and partly out of frustration with the inability to teach their curriculum well.
Many of their materials were very old and what they could offer through the internet and through other programs was more relevant to the curriculum demands.
Within our own staff there was a split of opinion on platforms and products that would be best for our particular program needs.
We knew that research was needed in order to understand the pros and cons of what would benefit our mission and vision foremost and then what would be the best for the teachers and students.
Here are several steps that were taken in the research process:
Input provided by classroom teacher using the seven tablets (Android) during the school year
Input provided by specific teachers using the tablets for DIBELS testing and the Core Knowledge Language Arts Program
Microsoft Educational Representative came to MA and presented their products and provided their research, analyses, and
sales pitch
Apple Educational Representative came to MA and presented their products and provided their research, analyses, and sales
pitch
Other products were considered and quickly dismissed due to poor productivity and reviews by educators and vendor reviews
widely available. (i.e. Chrome books, etc.)
Site visits were attempted to schools that implemented both platforms of tablets for students. There were no one-to-one implementations of Microsoft product schools so no site visits could be conducted. Manitou Springs School District was visited
for one entire day and a network established for questions.
A Technology network of professionals meets monthly and one of our employees began attending meetings in March to gather more information from professional ed tech people in the field. Their consensus was unanimously Apple products due to
the educational support provided, security and controls, battery life, and less maintenance for the users.
Phone calls were placed to Legacy Academy in Elizabeth (IPad one-to-one implementation)
Articles were gathered for both pros and cons of an implementation.
MA’s philosophy as a charter school and the instructional model of implementation was challenged through the writing of an
implementation philosophy.
Teachers met repeatedly to discuss the idea and the pros and cons.
The curriculum committee discussed the pros and cons in the last two meetings. The committee did vote in favor of implementation.
Board Approved 03/12/2015
3
Financial Considerations (Narrative)
Expenses – Year 1
Our implementation and deployment of a one-to-one iPad program will take into consideration the following expenses:
300 devices
300 covers
14 wireless Internet access points
900 apps (average cost of $2 per device, majority being considered are free)
The attached spreadsheet details Monument Academy’s outlay of $129,500 in year 1 of the program. This outlay has been reduced
by previous purchase of 20 devices and covers for all middle school teachers, the MDM, the mini Mac used for the Apple deployment program configurations, and upgrades to the school’s infrastructure.
Revenues – Year 1
Our implementation and deployment of a one-to-one iPad program will take into consideration the following revenues:
Tech Fees
Parent Purchase of devices
Our one-to-one iPad program will require an annual Tech Fee of $75 per student. The Tech Fee is meant to cover the cost of running the MDM, purchased APPS and the creation of a self-insurance pool of dollars. Students qualifying for Free and Reduced
Lunch will be exempt from the Tech Fee (currently, there are <15 FRL students in the 5 th, 6th and 7th grades). Based on these assumptions, the Tech Fee will produce $21,375 in revenue.
In addition, our surveys conservatively indicate about 1/3 of middle school students’ parents indicate they would purchase the device and the required cover (the MA purchase price would be well below retail prices). Based on these assumptions, the purchase
of the devices will produce $40,000 in revenue.
While the overall assumption for year 1 requires a $129,500 cash outlay by MA, the net cost to the school after collecting fees and
dollars for purchases will be $68,125.
BEST CASE COST TO MA: $ 68,125
WORST CASE COST TO MA: $129,500
Expenses - Year 2
Our expenses for year 2 take into consideration the following expenses:
33 devices
33 covers
900 apps (average cost of $2 per device, majority being considered are free)
5 devices that will need repair or replacement (based on other programs’ experience)
It is assumed that of the 100 devices purchased in year 1 will be evenly divided among the 3 middle school grades, 33 of the devices
and covers will be needed to be replaced due to graduating 8 th graders. Allowances for the purchase of additional APPS have also
been included. Based on several years’ experience of other one-to-one programs, a repair/replacement estimate has been included in the expenses for year 2.
Board Approved 03/12/2015
4
The attached spreadsheet details Monument Academy’s outlay of $15,780 in year 2 of the program.
Revenues – Year 2
Our revenues for year 2 take into consideration the following expenses:
Tech Fees
Parent Purchase of devices
Based on the same assumptions as year 1, the Tech Fees in year 2 will produce $21,375 in revenue.
We have again assumed that about 1/3 of incoming 6th grade parents will purchase the device and the required cover. The purchase of the devices will produce $13,200 in revenue.
While the overall assumption for year 2 requires a $15,780 cash outlay by MA, the net cost to the school after collecting fees and
dollars for purchases will be $0.
BEST CASE COST TO MA:
$ 0
WORST CASE COST TO MA:
$15,780
($18,795 will be placed in reserve)
Expenses - Year 3
Our expenses for year 3 take into consideration the following expenses:
33 devices
33 covers
900 apps (average cost of $2 per device, majority being considered are free)
5 devices that will need repair or replacement (based on other programs’ experience)
It is assumed that of the 100 devices purchased in year 1 will be evenly divided among the 3 middle school grades, 33 of the devices and covers will be needed to be replaced due to graduating 8 th graders. Allowances for the purchase of additional APPS have
also been included. Based on several years’ experience of other one-to-one programs, a repair/replacement estimate has been
included in the expenses for year 3.
The attached spreadsheet details Monument Academy’s outlay of $15,780 in year 3 of the program.
Revenues – Year 3
Our revenues for year 3 take into consideration the following expenses:
Tech Fees
Parent Purchase of devices
Based on the same assumptions as year 1, the Tech Fees in year 3 will produce $21,375 in revenue.
We have again assumed that about 1/3 of 6th grade parents will purchase the device and the required cover. The purchase of the
devices will produce $13,200 in revenue.
While the overall assumption for year 3 requires a $15,780 cash outlay by MA, the net cost to the school after collecting fees and
dollars for purchases will be $0.
BEST CASE COST TO MA:
$ 0
WORST CASE COST TO MA:
$15,780
($18,795 will be placed in reserve)
Board Approved 03/12/2015
5
The total reserve at the end of year 3 is $37,590.
Expenses – Year 4
Our expenses for year 3 take into consideration the following expenses:
320 devices
320 covers
900 apps (average cost of $2 per device, majority being considered are free)
The attached spreadsheet details Monument Academy’s outlay of $129,800 in year 4 of the program. The 320 devices and covers
represent the replacement of all devices and covers for students and teachers. Allowances for the purchase of additional APPS
have also been included.
Revenues – Year 4
Our revenues for year 4 take into consideration the following expenses:
Tech Fees
Parent Purchase of devices
Based on the same assumptions as year 1, the Tech Fees in year 3 will produce $21,375 in revenue.
Again, we assumed about 1/3 of middle school students’ parents would purchase the new devices and required covers. Based on
these assumptions, the purchase of the devices will produce $40,000 in revenue.
In addition, we assumed that we would trade-in 220 devices under the Apple replacement program, which allows a $100 credit
when buying new devices. The value of this allowance is $22,000.
While the overall assumption for year 4 requires a $129,800 cash outlay by MA, the net cost to the school after collecting fees, dollars for purchases, trade-in allowances and using the $37,590 reserve will be $30,835.
BEST CASE COST TO MA:
$ 8,835
WORST CASE COST TO MA:
$129,800
Non-Related Device Costs:
1.
As a result of the committee’s efforts it has been revealed that MA needs additional technology staffing assistance to free up
the Educational Technology Director to focus on one on one training with the classroom teacher to make the existing and future technology tools successful and enriching to the learning process. This need is not being driven by this proposal but exists
currently and is recommended to be actioned as soon as possible regardless of the proposal’s outcome. After further understanding and discussion with operations leadership, the hire of a media specialist/technical support person would best resolve
this need.
2.
Professional Development—A full training plan is in place for teachers to benefit. Training will focus on curriculum and processes to implement in the classroom to further integrate the technology in hand.
Board Approved 03/12/2015
Total
Revenue
Expenses
100
Parent Purchase/Own (ipad and cover)
Annual Funds Needed less Cumulative fees
Cumulative Tech Funds
Annual Capital Outlay Net Needed
Tech Fee covers insurance/replacement
Total
Apple Trade In Allowance
285
Tech Fee
Teacher iPads, MDM, etc.have been previously purchased.
400
75
-
-
Total
2
900
Apps
Repair/
Replacement
550
20
14
300
Covers
380
Year 1
Access Points
300
Devices
Monument Academy one-to-one Program
68,125
61,375
40,000
21,375
129,500
-
1,800
7,700
6,000
114,000
33
285
5
900
-
33
33
400
75
780
2
-
20
380
Year 2
- 18,795
- 18,795
34,575
13,200
21,375
15,780
780
1,800
-
660
12,540
33
285
5
900
-
33
33
400
75
780
2
-
20
380
Year 3
- 37,590
- 18,795
34,575
13,200
21,375
15,780
780
1,800
-
660
12,540
220
100
285
900
-
320
320
100
400
75
2
-
20
380
Year 4
8,835
46,425
83,375
22,000
40,000
21,375
129,800
-
1,800
-
6,400
121,600
6
Board Approved 03/12/2015
7
Measurements of Success:
How will we know if such an implementation is a success? It is important to frame one’s question with the understanding that this
is a tool. The basic methods of instruction will remain the same. The way one learns math, reading, and writing are the same. Even
though our world is changing all around us, the concepts of foundational education are the same. An iPad is a tool to engage the
thought process of a young person. It is not to take over the school. Just as the projector years ago provided a streamlined method
to show a movie illustrating an atom splitting, so an iPad can demonstrate a student’s creativity in his paper by visualizing the idea
he created in live motion. The student will still plan the draft on paper in his own writing. The student will still be under the instruction and supervision of the teacher. It will just open the windows of opportunity and creativity right in the classroom. Parents
won’t need to volunteer to drive their child to the library for English class because all of the mobile lab carts are in use and we
need to research in tandem for the effectiveness of a certain topic the class is learning.
Success will be measured by the engagement of our students in the learning process. Success will be measured by increased student scores on all of our many assessments throughout the school year. Success will be measured by an excited staff using the best
tools possible to work their craft. Success will be measured by parents who feel their child was given a great opportunity to reach
beyond and see more than average material.
Committee Considerations and Recommendations:
Options Considered but not Recommended
The committee discussed a partial rollout beginning with sixth grade and after discussion, strongly opposed the idea of only sixth
graders having iPads. They felt this did not address the issues with technology needs in the classrooms and helps only one-third of
the student body. The committee believes that the financial options provided are suitable for an entire middle school rollout.
Recommendation
We are proposing that all middle school students are required to have an iPad and that Monument Academy will provide the devices at no cost to the student (with the exception of the annual $75 technology fee). The committee also offers the option for parents to purchase the device at any time. This recommendation appears to be financially viable based on the financial considerations on page 3.
Board Approved 03/12/2015
8
Proposed IPad Implementation and Philosophy
The mission of Monument Academy is to provide a challenging, content-rich academic program offered within an
engaging, caring, and positive learning environment. Established on a solid foundation of knowledge, Monument
Academy emphasizes academic excellence, respect, responsibility, character development and exemplary citizenship.
Our mission continues with the implementation of the iPad one-to-one program in *middle school. This program
will literally flow from our mission. The challenge will go forward with this tool of learning by aiding in the ability
to add to our content-rich academic program.
The learning environment is vital to the success of solid implementation. A unique quality of Monument Academy is
the instructional model that is delivered for students. Teachers are held to a very high standard of accountability in
lesson planning and delivery. This does not change with the implementation of iPads as a tool but rather enhances
the expectation. Teachers will be evaluated in their use of the iPads as a resource and also how students are using
them in the classroom. Student use must be in line with any other tool implemented in the classroom. Students will
use them in tandem with teacher-led instruction. The instruction will follow our effective teaching cycle (warm up,
review of previously taught material, new material, guided and independent practice, and assessment) and the iPad
will be used throughout the instruction as an instrument in learning. It will not replace the teacher’s instruction or
the cycle of teaching.
The order of Monument Academy classrooms is another unique quality inherent to our school. This order is by design and comes from a premise of respect, responsibility and citizenship. Our character development is one of the
major two tenets of our school. Orderliness in the classroom is essential for a culture of character for which we constantly endeavor to provide. Bringing iPads into the classrooms will not jeopardize this tenet of our school. Teachers
will maintain order in the classrooms by controlling the use and purposes of the iPads. Teachers will lead the class
on the iPad as they would a textbook with the difference in engagement lifting off the page with movement, interactive assessments, and much more. The class will work together and the teacher will be responsible to monitor students throughout the class period. These extra tools will not replace the paper and pencil of calculation and drafting
but will engage the creativity of design and collaboration.
The drive for academic excellence is profound at Monument Academy. In this pursuit of cutting edge best practices,
the use of iPads will enable our students to rise to a new level of excellence. The outcome of student achievement is
paramount. To develop 21st Century learning skills, such as creativity and critical thinking, we can take students
from the norm to the enriched. We will use this technological tool coupled with the fundamentals of content-rich
materials and continue to provide the academic excellence that we have since 1996.
*One-to-one implementation will remain limited to 6-8 grades. MA does not believe it is appropriate for the elementary grades with the exception of a mobile iPad cart implementation model.
Board Approved 03/12/2015
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FAQ’s:
Q: What do we do if we don’t have Wi-Fi at home?
Teachers can avoid making homework internet dependent. The books and apps will be accessible without WiFi. Before students leave school for the day the teachers can ensure that students have the opportunity to download
any important documents.
The school library is available during all advisory periods for students requiring internet access for their homework. If more time is needed, arrangements can be made. (Note: We currently assign on-line work and we are not aware
of any students in this situation.)
Q: What are the objectives for rolling out this technology in the classroom?
Our objectives are very simply to provide a more effective and efficient tool for our students in this 21st Century
learning. To enable a student to hold an encyclopedia set, dictionary, school text, interactive text, word processor, planner, and so much more in their hand without the need to leave their seat or lose class time to go to their locker. At Monument Academy, we are constantly trying to find innovative ways to gain more instructional time. This tool in our student’s hands will increase instructional time immensely and will provide a more engaging tool for the students in the
learning environment.
Q: How are you going to measure if implementing iPads in the classroom is successful?
There are many ways to measure success:
Our school-wide assessments will be used. We will take our assessments over the last three years and analyze
them over the next three years. We will do a year-over-year analysis of growth for each grade level.
Instructional time gained in each class will be calculated and an exact percentage will be given as to how much
more time is gained.
Student participation is another mode whereby we can measure success. Is student engagement higher?
There are many measurements that cannot be assessed. Much of the learning process happens in a student’s
mind. One cannot see nor measure the effectiveness of the level of thought process.
Q: Why did you choose iPads and not laptops or other devices?
The pilot program that we have used has proven successful. The teacher interaction is much stronger on one
platform. The use of curricula on a single platform will be more manageable. The supports and professional development
provided by Apple Education are far superior than other products. We believe this to be the better educational decision
for our staff and students.
Q: What if my child already has an iPad, can he/she use it for school?
Yes. It must meet the following specifications:
Acceptable models are iPad 3 through iPad Air 2
Minimum required onboard storage is 32 GB
Minimum RAM required is 1GB
Latest iOS update installed (continuing requirement)
Wi-Fi capability must be functional
Not jail broken (term used for going around the school’s management device system)
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Q: If the student’s iPad is broken, lost or stolen, will he/she be at a disadvantage in class?
As with any school supply or needed tool, they will be at a disadvantage. Under our service agreement, we will
have a quick turnaround period for repairs but replacement issues will take longer. It will be the same as not being prepared for class and needing to share with another student or perhaps going “slow school” and using a laptop.
Q: What does the Technology Fee cover?
The $75.00 annual fee covers the repairs and maintenance of the IPad each year. It is an insurance fee in the
event of damage or disrepair. Monument Academy will provide a 24 hour repair service as long as the student has protected the device properly with the school authorized cover. This fee does not cover theft or loss. (see student handbook)
Q: How will the iPads be managed/secured and will those settings apply at home as well as at school?
IPads will be managed/secured through our MDM as mentioned previously. The settings will apply when students are off campus as well. Students will be encouraged to back up their devices to the iCloud to save documents in
the case of a broken or lost device. If a device is lost we can find it using the Find My iPhone app which will be standard on all devices. If stolen we can also lock the device or wipe the device as necessary.
Notifications will be set so that administrators will know if a management profile is removed from a device or
if it a jailbreak occurs.
Note: We will provide locks on the lockers beginning 2015, August.
Q: Does the MDM have provisions for content filter?
Meraki (current MDM) does have two options for web filtering. First option is an auto-filter. This is where you
can specify a URL as permitted or blocked. Once a URL has been add to one of the lists, all websites that fall under the
parent URL will have the same rules applied to them. The other option would be to create a whitelist of specific pages.
Air-Watch (potential new MDM) also has a blacklist/whitelist web filter that will function regardless of whether the connection type 4G or wifi. These restrictions will also apply both on and off campus.
Q: What restrictions/filters will be applied?
Meraki: Restrictions that can be set in place include turning off the camera, blocking FaceTime, blocking in-app
purchases, blocking gaming features, blocking YouTube, block explicit music and podcasts, and much more. These restrictions will follow the device until the management profile is removed.
Air-Watch gives the ability for in-class management. Teacher will be able to lock all of their students’ iPads in
order to get the kids attention. They can also lock the devices into any managed app or Microsoft content. Concerning
web use in the classroom, teachers can provide a group of URL’s that are specifically allowed during their instruction. These tools would surely be useful in keeping the students focused on the instruction.
Q: What resources can you provide parents to help us help our children with the iPads?
The University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) will provide training on internet safety and ethics to our
parents and students as a community service for our new implementation. Ongoing training and courses will be available through our Canvas pages on-line.
Q: What training will the teachers receive?
One of the tremendous advantages to Apple Education is the professional development resources. Our teach-
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ers will receive support and training from the Apple Education Division of support. We also have a full-time
Educational Technology Director dedicated to our teacher’s success in the classroom.
Q: Will the school provide accessories such as cases for iPads?
These will be provided as part of the instructional fee charged to the parents annually.
Q: What happens if my child brings the iPad to school uncharged?
There is be a penalty for this as there would be for not being prepared for class; however, we would have extra charging
stations in classes. These would not be used without a cost of some kind to the students (i.e. loss of privilege).
Q: May we as a family opt out of using iPads altogether?
Opting out would not be possible as this is a tool required for your child’s learning. Unless this violates one of your family’s religious or moral beliefs, we would ask you to work with us on making this happen for your child. This will become a replacement for their textbooks and many other items currently in their backpack. It would put them at a serious disadvantage and jeopardize their ability to function properly in the classroom.
If finances are a concern, Monument Academy is committed to working with every family to make every opportunity possible for your child to have an iPad.
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Student and Parent/Guardian iPad Agreement
Overview:
Monument Academy is committed to providing a challenging, content – rich, academic program offered within an
engaging, caring, and positive learning environment. Established on a solid foundation of knowledge, Monument
Academy emphasizes academic excellence, respect, responsibility, character and exemplary citizenship. The iPad
“one-to-one” implementation project will enable us to put educational materials from many sources in every student’s hand, bring facts to life, integrate problem solving and enable students to learn in a new and exciting way.
Understanding and adhering to the following guidelines and procedures is necessary for the success of the program.
A. Terms of Loan
1. Monument Academy will issue an iPad to Middle School students upon compliance with the following:
a. Payment of all material and technology fees
b. Submission of signed Student and Parent/Guardian iPad Agreement
c. Submission of a signed Technology User Agreement
2. Monument Academy retains ownership of the issued iPads.
3. Students may be subject to loss of privilege, disciplinary action, and/or financially responsible for the replacement cost of the iPad in the event of intentional damage and/or violation of policies and guidelines as outlined in
the Student and Parent/Guardian iPad Agreement as well as Monument Academy’s Technology User Agreement.
4. It is the student’s responsibility to maintain access to his or her Apple ID and to the apps the school has provided.
5. Monument Academy reserves the right to remove any non-school related material (apps, music, pictures) if the
space requirements needed for school activities are not available or if the student is unable to refrain from using
non-school related apps during class time.
6. A student’s possession of the iPad terminates no later than the last day of school or when deemed appropriate by
the school, unless there is a reason for earlier termination determined by the principal. The issued iPad must be returned when a student withdraws/graduates from Monument Academy.
B. Damage, Loss, or Theft
1. The student and their parent/guardian is financially responsible for any/all negligent damage, including but not
limited to liquid spills, power surges, drops, falls, collisions, vandalism, flood, fire, and smoke, as well as damage to
batteries and ac adapters.
2. The user agrees to the cover all costs of repair up to and including the replacement of the issued iPad.
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3. The Monument Academy iPad warranty covers manufacturer defects only.
4. Warranty of manufactured defects does not cover loss, theft, negligence, and abuse of iPad and accessories. For
example, throwing the iPad or using the iPad as an umbrella would be considered examples of neglect and abuse.
5. If an iPad needs to be replaced due to loss, theft, neglect, or abuse, it is the student and their parent/guardian financial responsibility to replace the iPad at the school’s current replacement cost.
6. The student or parent/guardian is required to immediately notify a school administrator in all cases of stolen or
lost iPads. School administration may be able to assist in relocating the iPad if notified immediately. If required, Parents/Guardians are responsible for filing a police report
C. Repossession
Monument Academy reserves the right to repossess the iPad at any time if the student does not fully comply with all
terms of this agreement.
D. Appropriation
Failure to return the property (iPad and accessories) in a timely manner and/or the continued use of it for nonrelated school purposes will be referred to law enforcement and until paid for, will result in a hold on the student’s records. Replacement item price lists are available upon request in writing to Administration.
E. Modification to the Program
Monument Academy reserves the right to modify the program or the terms of use at any time.
F. iPad Cases
The student must keep the iPad in the school provided case or a school approved case at all times. Approval for cases
other than the school provided case will be given by Administration. Failure to use the provided/approved case will
result in the iPad’s repossession. If any damage is sustained to an iPad not in a case, it is the responsibility of the student/parent to pay for repairs.
G. General Care of the iPad
1. Do not do anything to the iPad or it’s iOS that will permanently alter it in any way.
2. Student iPads in need of repair must be reported to the Director of Technology Education.
3. Technical support will determine whether the iPad can be repaired on-site.
4. Guidelines to follow:
Minimizing the number of photos/movies on the iPad will increase performance. Clean your iPad files
on a regular basis.
Do not write, draw, paint, place stickers/labels or otherwise deface your iPad. Remember, the iPad is the
property of Monument Academy.
Never put weight on an iPad.
Liquids, food and other debris can damage the iPad. Avoid eating or drinking while using the iPad.
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Take care when inserting/removing cords, cables and other removable accessories to avoid damage to the
ports, cables and cords.
First, plug your power supply into the electrical outlet. Second, plug your power cord into your iPad.
When disconnecting, reverse this process.
Do not expose your iPad to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or ultraviolet light for extended periods
of time. Extreme heat or cold may cause damage to the iPad. If your iPad has been in a very cold environment for a long period of time, let it warm up before using it.
NEVER leave your iPad in a vehicle.
H. Cleaning Your iPad
The Monument Academy technology support team will complete routine maintenance on the iPads. However, students are encouraged to perform simple cleaning procedures as outlined below:
Clean the screen with a soft, dry anti-static or micro-fiber cloth. Do not use any type of liquid or water to clean
the screen or iPad.
Wash hands frequently when using the iPad to avoid build-up on the glass touch pad.
I. General Use of the iPad
1. Students are required to bring their iPad to school each day with a fully charged battery. Students will not be given
the use of a loaner iPad if they leave their iPad at home. Students leaving their iPad at home will be required to complete assignments using alternate means (as determined by the teacher).
2. You are responsible for the contents on your iPad.
3. Do not delete any profiles, folders, files or apps that you did not create or that you do not recognize. Deletion of
files could result in iPad failure and may interfere with your ability to complete class work. Taking this action may
result in your iPad being restored to school determined settings.
4. Student iPads are subject to routine monitoring by teachers, administrators and technology staff. Users shall have
no expectation of privacy while using school’s electronic information resources.
5. With parent/guardian approval, the student may download additional apps in keeping with the guidelines in the
Technology User Agreement. The student must pay for any charges associated with a non-school issued apps.
7. Upgraded versions of the iOS and iPad apps are available from time to time. Students may be required to check in
their iPads for periodic updates and syncing. Students will be required to keep the iOS current.
J. General Security
1. Never leave your iPad unsecured.
2. During after-school activities, you are still expected to maintain the security of your iPad. Staff will confiscate unsupervised iPads, and disciplinary actions may be taken.
3. Each iPad has several identifying labels. (i.e. The Monument Academy identification label, serial number and student name). Under no circumstances are you to modify, remove or destroy these labels.
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K. End of Year Collection Procedure
1. Return the equipment on the date designated by the school or upon leaving the school.
2. “Equipment” consists of iPad, power cable, charger, and iPad case.
L. Email
1. Email transmissions and transmitted data shall not be considered confidential and may be monitored at anytime
by designated staff to ensure appropriate use.
2. Students will abide by all email guidelines as outlined in the Monument Academy Technology User Agreement.
M. Internet Access/Filtering
Many of our students carry a personal web-enabled device (such as a smartphone or iPod Touch), parents/
guardians are probably aware of the risks. Access to the Internet, from anywhere in the world, comes with the possibility of retrieving inappropriate content; therefore, adults must do their best to educate children on the proper
uses of technology.
1. Technology protection measures are installed on school devices to ensure students are as protected as reasonably
possible from inappropriate online content at any location.
2. The school cannot guarantee that access to all inappropriate sites will be blocked. Students may accidentally or
purposefully circumvent these precautions and restrictions.
3. iPad applications pose a risk, however small, of exposure to graphic, highly controversial, or potentially dangerous content.
4. Monument Academy will not provide internet access for home use.
N. Technology User Agreement
Students have read, signed and agreed to follow the Technology User Agreement at all times. The Technology User
Agreement is available on the school website.
O. End User License Agreement
Monument Academy and parents/guardians are considered to be the end users for all applications installed on the
student iPad.
SEE NEXT PAGES:
Student and Parent/Guardian iPad Agreement
Please sign and return this form to the school office.
Technology User Agreement
Please sign and return this form to the school office.
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Student and Parent/Guardian iPad Agreement
(Please Print All Information)
I have read, understand, and agree to follow all responsibilities as outlined in the Student and Parent/Guardian
iPad Agreement.
Student’s Full Name:
Student Signature:
Parent/Guardian Name:
Street Address:
City:
Zip:
Parent Email:
Phone: Home ______________________ Work: ______________________
Cell: ______________________
Parent/Guardian Signature:
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Technology User Agreement
Student-Technology User Agreement: I have read and understand the Technology User Agreement. I will abide by
the guidelines contained therein. I understand that should I commit any violation, my access privileges may be revoked and disciplinary and/or legal action may be taken. I also understand that internet usage can be monitored.
Student’s Name (please print): ____________________________________ Grade: ___
Student Signature: ______________________________________________ Date: ____
Parent/Guardian- Technology User Agreement: As the parent or guardian of this student, I have read and reviewed
with the student member the Technology User Agreement. I understand that this access is designed for educational
purposes; however, I also recognize it is impossible to restrict access to all controversial materials and I will not
hold Monument Academy responsible for materials acquired in using the Monument Academy Network/Internet
Services.
Please Check One (Do Not Edit)
___I give my permission for the student named above to access the internet and all other computer resources. I certify that the information contained on this form is correct.
___I do not give my permission for the student named above to access the internet on the Monument Academy Network. (Lack of parental permission will result in loss of Internet access only; all other computer resources will be
made available.)
Parent/Guardian Name (please print):_______________________________ Grade: ___
Parent/Guardian Signature: _______________________________________ Date: ____
Permission to Publish Student Work/Picture: Monument Academy recognizes that a website can be a significant
educational tool and an excellent means of communicating with the community. Therefore, the school may establish a website that may display staff or student work, pictures of students or staff members in an educational setting
and announce activities and events that take place in individual classrooms. The following guidelines will be followed:
No student work or picture may be posted on the web without parent permission.
Only the student’s first name will be used in association with their picture or work.
The student’s grade, class and/or teacher may also be identified.
Please Check One (Do Not Edit)
___I (parent/guardian) give permission to have my child’s work or picture posted on the Monument Academy
website.
___I (parent/guardian) do not give permission to have my child’s work or picture posted on the Monument Academy website.
Parent/Guardian Name (please print):_______________________________ Grade: ___
Parent/Guardian Signature: _______________________________________ Date: ____
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