1

Kennesaw Charter Science and Math Academy

School Improvement Plan 2014-2015

School Improvement Team

Principal - Kay Frey __________ Date ___________

Assistant Principal- Jason Traster ________ Date ___________

Chair – Kym Rich ___________ Date ___________

SPED – Tanner/designee ___________ Date ___________

Kindergarten - Mandy Estes ___________ Date ___________

1st Grade - Kym Rich ___________ Date ___________

2nd Grade - Tina White ___________ Date ___________

3rd Grade – Laura Franz ___________ Date ___________

4th Grade - Margie McMasters ___________ Date ___________

5th Grade – Chad Monnier ___________ Date ___________

6th Grade – T. Davis/W. Selzer ___________ Date ___________

Specials - Henson/Franz ____________ Date ___________

Non-certified - Tara McLeod ____________ Date ____________

Parent Rep. - Mrs. Nicklay ____________ Date ____________

Parent Rep. - Mrs. Beeler _____________ Date ____________

2

KCSMA Governing Board

Charles Arnett - Chairperson

Kirsten Roberts - Secretary Susan Rees - Treasurer

Coleen James - Director Chris Bishop – Director

Roland Wallace – Director Thom Suddreth - Director

Governing Board meetings are held the third Thursday of every month, at 6:30pm. Parents and community are informed of meetings via the KCSMA and KCSMA Board website.

3

Kennesaw Charter Science and Math Academy School Improvement Plan 2014-2015

Table of Contents Statement of Purpose............................................................................................................................... 4

School Profile............................................................................................................................................ 5

Teaching and Learning............................................................................................................................. 6 SCHOOL STRENGTHS................................................................................................................................ 6 SCHOOL CHALLENGES .............................................................................................................................. 6

Organizational Characteristics ................................................................................................................ 8

Three Year Plan 12

SCHOOL COMMITTEES 15

SUCCESSION PLAN 16

COMMUNICATION PLAN 17

RESOURCES AND SUPPORT SYSTEMS 28

SCHOOL IMPRIVEMENT TEAM (DESCRIPTION) 29 GOVERNANCE AND LEADERSHIP 32

DEMOGRAPHICS 33 CHARTER GOALS 34 ORGANIZATIONAL GOALS 35 WRITING SCORES (5th grade) 36 PERFORMANCE COMPARISONS 37 PERFORMANCE TARGETS AND GOALS 39 WAIVERS 44

4

Kennesaw Charter Science and Math Academy School Improvement Plan 2013-2014

Statement of Purpose To provide a safe, positive learning environment that inspires strong character; promotes intellectual, social, and emotional development; and challenges all students to aspire to their personal best. VISION We believe the following to be true about Kennesaw Charter Science and Math Academy and our mission as educators:

• Learning must be made relevant through real world connections. • Every child has value and can learn. • Parent and community involvement enhance and improve teaching and learning • All children benefit from a climate of high expectations, social justice and encouragement.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

1. KCSMA will ensure that all students attain high levels of achievement in all content areas by focusing on teaching and learning the Common Core Standards.

2. KCSMA will ensure a safe learning and working environment for all.

3. KCSMA will provide resources, internal and community support to ensure increased student understanding through project-based and experiential learning, towards continuous improvement in student performance and school effectiveness.

KCSMA Data Team Mission To initiate a structured implementation of data use and plan how it should be analyzed

throughout the school. School wide Data Team members will train, research, and facilitate the use of data and help their colleagues be successful. Data Team will ensure the data is used to guide instruction as effectively and efficiently as possible. Additionally we strive to create a positive data culture that celebrates ingenuity and creativity in finding solutions

to data problems.

5

School Profile Kennesaw Charter School was organized and begun in August 2003 as an attempt by parents and local organizations to introduce and develop an educational institution that is high achieving and promotes strong parent involvement. The charter school is a public school within the city of Kennesaw, Georgia in Cobb County. Kennesaw Charter School is a member of Georgia Charter Schools Inc. In September 2009 Cobb County approved a five year charter for the school. In February 2010 Kennesaw Charter School became self-managed, ending management from Educational Management Organization, Imagine Schools. Kennesaw Charter Science and Math Academy serves grades K-6 and was re-accredited by AdvancED SACS CASI in March 2013. Students and staff moved to 3010 Cobb Parkway in April 2012, making this the third year in the facility. The current student population is 888 students, 60 certified teachers, 9 paraprofessional teachers,1 full time and 1 part time guidance counselor, 1 principal and 1 assistant principal. Student population is comprised of 48.6% African American, 31.5 % Caucasian, and 9.2% Hispanic. Overall demographics also include the following: 6.7% Asian, 4.3 % other. The school gender ratio is males: 52% and females: 48%. Other programs and student services are listed below.

6

Teaching and Learning

School Strengths

KCSMA was awarded the School of Excellence Recognition for Student Achievement. Student numbers increased from 592 students in school year 2011 to 890 in year 2014-15. Standardized scores continue to increase at most grade levels. Schoolwide attendance is at 97% Additions to the staff this year include a full time ESOL teacher, part time Guidance Counselor and Assistant Principal. KCSMA is making notable progress in its 2nd year of the 3-year goal to obtain STEM certification from the Georgia Department of Education. KCSMA was reaccredited March 2013 by AdvancEd. Third grade reading and math scores on CRCT increased. Fourth and fifth grade 2012-13 CRCT scores indicate student achievement at or above charter goals, state and local goals.

School Challenges

CCRPI data indicates academic growth is needed in areas of reading and math across all grade levels, with focus on students with special needs and ESOL students. Teacher retention rate dropped significantly. The school started the year with less than the 920 projected students needed for full funding. Capital Campaigns, donations and benefactors needed to ensure financial growth, not yet initiated. Increased opportunities for staff and administrative Professional Learning are needed.

7

8

Organizational Characteristics

Georgia

DOE

County Authorizer

CCSD Contact Dr. US

Davidson

KCSMA Governing

Board

Principal

Office Manager, CFO

Enrollment Records

Front Office Marketing Facilities

Management Lunch

Program

Assistant Principal

Curriculum Oversight

Gifted BASP Director

Counselor

Clinic Nurse ESOL EIP

Kindergarten

Chair

K Faculty

K Paras

First Grade Chair

First Grade Faculty

Second Grade Chair

Second Grade Faculty

Third Grade Chair

Third Grade Faculty

Fourth Grade Chair

Fourth Grade Faculty

Fifth Grade Chair

Fifth Grade Faculty

Sixth Grade Chair

Sixth Grade Faculty

Specials Chair

Specials Faculty

SIT Chair

SIT Member

s

Media Specialis

t

Special Ed

Director

Spec Ed Paras

Leadership Team Kay Frey – Principal Assistant Principal

Curriculum Oversight Zoe Mallon – Counselor/Testing

Coordinator 1 Teacher Rep per grade level

1 Para 2 Parent Representatives

9

Organizational Characteristics (Continued)

Additional services provided to KCSMA students but not funded by Cobb County include speech language, and occupational therapy. Speech therapist, Occupational therapist, and Educational Psychologist are contracted employees. EIP (Early Intervention Program), Gifted, Special Ed (Students with Disabilities), and ESOL (English as a Second Language) services are provided by KCSMA. KCSMA teachers benefit from on-site mentoring, modeling, and professional development, provided by a Conscious Discipline trainer. KCSMA has established educational partnerships with Georgia Tech and KSU, who provide curriculum, resources, and workshops in the areas of science and math. KCSMA is a member of the Georgia Charter Schools Association, who provides advocacy for the school in addition to Board Training, Charter Renewal assistance, and other support. The KCSMA principal, Board, and stakeholders begin the task of creating the school’s first Strategic Plan, scheduled for fall 2014. The Charter renewal date is June 2015. The Charter Renewal Committee began work on the charter renewal petition in September 2013. The CCSD School Board approved KCSMA’s charter renewal petition for 2015-2020 and the charter awaits renewal approval from the Georgia Department of Education. The Governing Board established sub-committees: Academic Excellence, Financial Sustainability, Governance, and Policy. Additionally, the organizational flow chart for the school was reviewed, and changes made to reflect the school’s growth. Succession Plan and Cross-training Plan were amended as administrative support and board members have changed. KCSMA leadership became credentialed in the Teacher Keys Evaluation Systems and Leader Keys Evaluation Systems teacher and leader performance evaluation system in October 2013 and state mandated TKES and LKES evaluations began in September 2014. KCSMA will meet with STEM Georgia leaders in November, at which time they will tour KCSMA, review curriculum and plans, and provide feedback regarding the school’s progress towards gaining STEM certification.

10

Cross Training Plan 2012-2015 Red type indicates progress towards training plan 2014-15

Position Employees Involved

Specific Training Includes

Time Line

Resources Needed Notes

Principal Jason Traster

Curriculum Position on hold due to funding

issues

TKES training

Shadow Principal

Community, Parent and Educational meeting

participation w/ Principal

Leadership degree

1-2014 GADOE

Time to observe and to Reflect

University

Mr. Traster is transitioning from 5th grade lead teacher to Assistant Principal in year 2014-15 Mr. Traster serves as AP 2014-15 Position on hold 2014-2015

Assistant Principal Charley Walper Ms. Walper no

longer with KCSMA

Zoe Mallon

Teacher- Leader

TKES training

Inclusion in AP training, workshops, meetings

Must obtain Ed. Leadership degree

11-2015 2018

GADOE

Monthly meetings with

AP

Impromptu training as

needed

Degree in Ed. Leadership

Mrs. Mallon, Guidance, will serve in an Administrative role, along with a staff designee when AP and Principal are away from campus. A designated teacher-leader will serve in an administrative role, along with Mrs. Mallon, if there is a situation when AP and Principal are away from campus.

Chief Financial officer

Laura Corey

Charles Arnett

QuickBooks Training

Training from Payroll Co.

Board input on reporting preference

Workshop with school’s Accountant, Bambo

Bond training

12-2013 through 7- 2014 On-going

Training schedule

Financial Policy

Notebook

Charter

Charter By-laws

Laura Corey is the school’s new Business Manager, handling all Human Resources and Finance.

Board member Kirsten Roberts meets monthly with Ms. Corey to reconcile

finances as oversight, checks and balances.

11

Human Resources Kristen Settle

Laura Corey

Benefits training

OCR workshop

Disability training

Contracts, Background Checks training

5-2014 Through 10-2014

Training schedule

Shadowing McWhorter

GCSA Business Mgr. Credential

HR Policy Notebook

Charter

Position Employees Involved Specific Training Includes Time

Line Resources

Needed Notes

Office Coordinator

Debbie Schmidt

Laura Corey

Kristen Settle

Accounts Receivable

Accounts Payable

Check cutting process

Vendor Contracts, POs

Finance Policy

1-2014

Policy and Procedures Handbook

Contracts

and contact info

Scheduled Training

Ms. Settle is currently the After School Program Director, which requires daily bookkeeping duties. Mrs. Schmidt will serve as back-up when Ms Settle is unable to fulfill these duties Mrs. Settle will take over these duties., Mr. Arnett and Mrs. Roberts will back-up if necessary.

ASP Director Jade Owens Kristen Settle

Ebony Scurry

QuickBooks

Payroll

Discipline/Behavior Mgmt.

Scheduling

Vendor Contracts

Accounts Receivable

8-2014 Scheduled Training

Documentation, logs, software,

written guidelines, forms

Ms. Settle continues in her position as ASP Director, with Jade Owens training to take over this position if Ms. Settle moves into another position at some point later in time

12

Enrollment Attendance

Debbie Schmidt

Michelle Brown

Michelle Brown is no longer with

KCSMA Kristen Settle

CSIS

Synergy

Policy and Law

Marketing and Tours

Waitlist management

Substitute Teacher Coordination

3-2014 through 2-2015

Training schedule Operations Policy

Notebook

Charter CCSD

SUB Handbook

Kristen Settle and Tara McLeod will back-up Enrollment when necessary. Either will be prepared to fulfill this position if needed.

Reception McLeod

Ebony Scurry

Emergency Safety Training

Daily Procedures

Customer Service Training

Shadowing Ms. Brown

Copier/Technology/Phones

5-2014 Through 5-2015

Training Shadowing

schedule

Staff Handbook Student Handbook

Policy

Notebooks

Charter

Ms. Scurry is currently training to fulfill this position in the future if the position becomes open.

13

2014/15 -2016/17 KCSMA 3-Year Goals include:

Enhanced programming in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) School Climate, Communications, and Stakeholder Relationships Continuous growth in Student Achievement Enhanced Programming / STEM 2014-2015 Obtain STEM certification by spring 2016 2014-2015 KCSMA Micro-Society- Student operated (adult supervised/monitored) morning jobs, using the school as a small community. Students will apply and be hired for jobs like school store, bank, post office, police station, public relations, coffee shop, florist, TV station, or library. Students are paid with virtual money through the school bank. This is a great opportunity to pull in business and community support, incorporating engineers, architects, business owners, etc. CharterTown can carry over to After School. 2014-2020 Continue to grow Robotics Team and Math Team 2014-2015 Hire an Instructional Technology (IT) contactor to assist with plans for technology infrastructure, purchase of materials, technology maintenance 2014-2015 Equip campus with enough infrastructure and access to sustain BYOD at the school. Develop a BYOD Procedure and Implementation Plan. 2014-2015 Equip campus with ample infrastructure and speed to sustain MAP Assessment online at every grade level. 2014-2015 Fully equipped Cooking Lab for projects that require heat, etc. 2014-2015 Science Fair on a competitive level with the state and county. 2014-2015 Parent STEM Nights in which students challenge parents to collaborate with them in problem based tasks. Increase Parent STEM Nights yearly until there is one Parent STEM Night every quarter by 2016-2017 2014-2020 Outdoor Science Classroom/Learning Center with amphitheater and seating. Weather station operated and documented by students; WeatherBug-like program so students can communicate and exchange data with weather professionals nationwide. Hydroponics, a large greenhouse, hand turn composters, worm habitat, pollination gardens, vegetable and herb garden, grape arbor, fossil pit and rock garden, bird sanctuaries – equipment & tools to maintain the learning center, and a large tool shed for security of tools and equipment. Advantageous to the success of the Outdoor Learning Center will be strong support and partnerships with high schools, universities and eco-organizations willing to work with KCSMA on specific projects. 2014-2020 Provide each classroom with a data projector. Ongoing until all have data projectors 2014-2020 Provide each teacher with a school laptop. Ongoing until all have a school purchased laptop. 2015-2016 Expand “Brainstorm” STEM activities once per quarter. 2015-2016 STEM Challenge monthly 2015-2016 Optional and Mandatory “take-home” Family Stem Stumpers

14

2015-2016 Increase in-house, day and overnight field trips to emphasize ecology, social studies, and science standards and Georgia history or current events, as well as team building, character education, art, and music enrichment throughout Georgia. 2015-2016 Develop and grow summer camp programs, focusing on themes and concepts reflecting academic and social beliefs/goals of KCSMA. 2015-2016 Introduce additional coding, computer application training, increased opportunities for designing, building and redesigning for problem based learning at all grade levels. This will require resources, materials, and skilled instructors. 2015-2016 Redesign current library with updated “Learning Module” model in mind, for the purpose of student centered collaboration for interdisciplinary learning opportunities. 2015-2016 School television station, streamed to classrooms live each morning with students as hosts - To be housed in the rear of the library - 2015-2016 Fully equipped Science lab, resources, kits for all standards, all grades K-5. 2015-2016 Science related software or website subscriptions, trade books, webinars, streamed documentaries magazines and kid-friendly resources for increased student exposure to science, engineering and math vocabulary and connections not only to real world events and problems, but as introductions to careers involving the sciences. 2015-2016 KCSMA participation in and sponsor of math and science student competitions locally and state-wide. 2015-2016 School-wide Market Day. We currently do this for one grade for a couple of hours but KCSMA could expand this event to cover an entire day and to include community and business participants. Supply and demand, marketing and pricing a product, inventory. Students choose a product or service to invent, create, develop, produce, market, and sell. 2016-2017 Emphasize a “math-through music” program to include a room electric keyboards, etc., traditional and digital musical instruments, to teach patterns, rhythm and other math concepts through music. 2016-2017 –Employ reverse classrooms in 3-5 grade, employ a 1:1 student to device ratio, and ensure that all teachers hold collaborative lessons that communicate and conference with students/professionals outside the school through SKYPE or other electronic communication. 2016-2017 Implement reverse classrooms in upper grades. 2016-2017 Teachers at each grade level accountable for collaborative lessons with students and professionals electronically through Skype, virtual fieldtrips, WeatherBug-type activities 2017-2018 Form an Odyssey of the Mind Team. 2017-2018 Math enrichment/achievement through employing a Math Specialist (on staff or contracted) to coach and model math lessons, integrate math throughout all core subjects, differentiate up and down, and provide staff development. 2017-2018 1:1 student device ratio

15

Communication and Community Business Relations 2014-2015 See KCSMA Communications Plan 2015-2020 Continue to improve stakeholder communication by surveying stakeholders and providing opportunities for stakeholders to offer input/suggestions regarding communication, by maintaining a current cross-training and succession plan regarding parties responsible for Communication Plan strategies and timelines, and by increasing community and business partnerships annually throughout the term of the charter contract. 2014-2015 Strategic Plan 2015-16 Employ someone part time who has a passion for charter schools, knows and can converse at great length about KCSMA’s history, demographics, achievement, goals, and who can speak to the needs of the school by visiting organizations, publishing marketing materials about the school, attend business and organization events where KCSMA can be marketed, develop/distribute “give” letters, write grants, plan school fundraisers/large events and seek financial sponsors for KCSMA. 2015-16 The Governing Board will collaborate with school administration to recruit qualified parents to lead committees focused on Community Partnerships. The Board will also be responsible for obtaining additional revenue from businesses, local organizations, and stakeholders (parents, staff, Board Members) 2015 -2016 Board appointed on Economic Sustainability, Growth and Oversight Committees, comprised of parents, Board members, Administration and community/business members, whose purpose is to implement ongoing Economic Sustainability Plan through fundraisers, donation drives, business sponsorship, and an effort to lower monthly bond payments through refinancing/paying down bonds. 2015-2016 Develop and implement an annual giving campaign for the school. 2016-2017 Continue and build the annual campaign, increase Board membership with local business and community leaders. 2016-2020 - Board appointed Economic Sustainability, Academic Excellence, and new Strategic Planning Committees whose long-term goal is the future economic sustainability and growth of KCSMA. To have a five year plan in place to address the new charter years 2020-2025.

16

School Committees 2014-2015

DATA Team Media / Technology

QUEST (Gifted) Cultural Arts

Student Support Team, Response To Intervention & Retention Committee School Improvement Team

Crisis Team STEM

Community Relations Awards Committee

Celebrations Math Fair

Science Fair Staff Development

Curriculum & Instruction Green School Committee

Charter Renewal Committee Academic Achievement Committee Governance and Policy Committee

17

Kennesaw Charter Science and Math Academy Succession Plan 2014

Position Title Incumbent Name Retirement Status Criticality

Number of Staff Ready

Now

Number of Staff Ready in

1-2 Years

Succession Planning Priorities

Principal Jason Traster C 0 0 2 n/a Assistant Principal New position Traster 2 2 4 2

Curriculum Lead New position Teacher Leader 2 2 3 3

CFO Laura Corey 1 0 0 1 Officer Manager Laura Corey 2 2 3 5

Enrollment Kristen Settle Tara McLeod 0 1 2 0

Reception Ebony Scurry 0 0 0 0 ASP Director Jade Owens 0 0 1 0

Retirement or Departure Status: A: Retirement likely within 1 year B: Retirement likely within 3 years C: Retirement eligible within 5 years

Criticality: 1: Critical - Must "hit the ground running" 2: Very Important - Fully functional within 6 months

Communication Plan

18

Stakeholder Communication and Relationships

2013-2014 Communication Plan

I. AIM:

KCSMA’s AIM is to develop a communication program that all staff and community members embrace. This plan will provide public understanding and awareness of the learning opportunities provided for students at Kennesaw Charter Science and Math Academy. In accordance with our School Improvement Plan, the communication plan will also help to establish positive school climates that promote cooperation, family and community involvement, professional learning that is open to new ideas, within a safe, disciplined, rigorous environment that fosters development of good character and community and business leaders.

II. COMMUNICATION BELIEFS: III. • We believe it takes the entire community to educate children and prepare them for middle

school and the future.

• We believe effective communication will allow parents and community members to be connected to our school. • We believe the staff of KCSMA delivers effective educational researched-based programs designed to meet the needs of ALL students. • We believe the mission of KCSMA is to provide a safe, positive learning environment that inspires strong character; promotes intellectual, social, and emotional development; and challenges all students to aspire to their personal best. • We believe in developing school excellence that is linked to the community and is constantly evolving and improving. • We believe that good communication is critical to our success.

IV. DESIRED OUTCOME:

• To develop improved internal and external communication • To provide an effective two-way communication plan that will inform all shareholders (parents/guardians, students, alumni, community members) of the issues/activities facing education at Kennesaw Charter Science and Math Academy. • To develop school and community understanding of our commitment to the educational process, that will put into practice the mission, goals and beliefs of our school. • To design positive school climates that welcomes and encourages family and community involvement in our schools. • To seek partnerships within the community to provide additional learning experiences for students. • To create a learning organization that is open to new ideas. • To develop a system of communication that creates an environment that promotes cooperation, teamwork, and creativity among all stakeholders.

Communication Plan

19

V. TARGET SHAREHOLDERS:

A. SCHOOL STAFF Administration, Faculty,, and Staff – all staff both certified, support and classified:

• The staff is aware that they are the school’s most important communicators and that they must seek effective ways to communicate information to students, parents and the community about core content, events, problems, policies, and opportunities. • KCSMA’s mission, goals and beliefs are available and understood. • Each teacher will feel a sense of satisfaction and pride and will celebrate student accomplishments and successes.

B. PARENTS/GUARDIANS Current and future parents, guardians, and grandparents: • Better two-way communication among families and teachers and school will enhance student learning and success. • Families will become aware that students are engaged in a challenging and caring school environment through recognition and celebrating student successes that promote learning where students are safe physically, mentally and emotionally. • On-going, two-way communication between families and the school supports the concept that the quality of education at KCSMA is a quality, ongoing process. C. GENERAL PUBLIC/COMMUNITY/BUSINESS To become aware that: • Involvement is crucial to the education of children. • The workplace is changing and our school, with the help of the community, will better prepare our students for the future. D. STUDENTS They must understand that: • Education is a priority for becoming a productive citizen. • Everyone can learn at a higher level given the right curriculum, resources, support, and time. • Students must take responsibility and be accountable for their own learning by setting goals and evaluating their progress. • They can succeed.

VI. EXPECTATIONS FOR PARENT-STUDENT-TEACHER COMMUNICATION

• Students should view themselves as the primary link for communication between parents and teachers. Students should have their agendas organized and with them at all times. • Parents should use the class newsletter and website to access routine information such as interim dates, report card dates, and details pertaining to upcoming school events. • Teachers should share routine, reasonable things that they will do to communicate with students and parents such as providing course expectations, syllabi, rubrics, and grading policies.

Communication Plan

20

• If you need additional information, always contact the person who can directly respond to your question. For example, if you need clarification about specific assignments communicate through the agenda and/or contact the classroom teacher. • Within 24 business hours an effort will be made to return phone calls and emails. Because teachers do not sit at a desk with phone access, parents need to provide a number and email where they can be reached at specific times of availability. • If a student needs to be sent out of the class, the teacher will contact the school administration and parent. The student will communicate with the school administration and parent, and the student will also share a corrective plan of action with the teacher. (Reflection) • If a student is upset by a teacher, the student should be encouraged to share his or her concerns individually with the teacher in a calm, respectful way as soon as possible after the event. If the student needs assistance in planning how to address concerns, he or she should seek advice from their guidance counselor to prepare for the communication that needs to take place with the teacher. Students should prepare to address their concerns without disrupting class or becoming frustrated. • If a student is not meeting expectations, parents will be contacted through email and/or phone call within days of the time data indicates student progress has stopped or regressed. Parents will receive updated status of their performance through interim reports each 4 and a half weeks, and if required, teachers will offer opportunities for remediation. While phone communication and emails can be informative and important, student agenda is also a good option for staying up-to-date on assignment due dates and details. Engrade is the most effective and real time means through which to access student grades and missing assignments in grades 4 and 5.

Who’s Who at KCSMA

Business Manager

LAURA COREY HOURS available on site: Monday-Thursday 8:00-2:30 Email address: lcorey@kcsma.net

Finance - Prepares deposits, writes all checks, does all ordering for the school (this means office, grade levels, individuals teachers. Maintains line item real time budget, projects future budget with Board and Admin, prepares financial reports for KCSMA Board, Cobb County, and the state. Mrs. Corey communicates with vendors and potential vendors. Teachers are expected to complete their own purchase orders, but Laura will check for accuracy and send. What she does not do – order, or accept money for maintenance, facilities, or custodial related services or materials. Collect overdue money or NSF checks for ASP, correspond with ASP parents about their accounts/handle reconciliation for ASP. A Board member with bookkeeping experience will reconcile finances monthly for checks and balances. Human Resources – Schedules interviews for potential employees. Contacts interviewees with a job offer or decline to hire. Coordinates with new hires for background checks, to verify clear certification, explains benefits and refers new

Communication Plan

21

hires to appropriate department when they have questions. Interested parties should send all resumes and job inquiries to lcorey@kcsma.net. Schedules appointment times for employees to meet with Principal or AP for contract renewal (also with those who are not being renewed). Once contracts are signed by Admin and employee, Business Mgr. scans contract copy or letter of non-renew to KCSMA employees. Throughout school year Business Manager assists employees with questions and with completion of documentation regarding 1) certificate renewal 2) insurance, long or short term leave, TRS or other employee benefit issues 3) days missed if an employee is reaching their 10 day paid absence maximum. However, it is important to note it is the sole responsibility of the employee to know the RENEWAL DATE of their teaching certificate, and to document and maintain records on PLUs. Business Manager maintains and adds Substitute teachers to the school wide Substitute pool by arranging background checks for those approved to work as SUBS for KCSMA and by keeping certified teacher staff updated on Substitute teacher list. Business Manager completes and sends all HR related reports and documentation required by the school’s bondholders, GADOE, and CCSD. As Business Manager, Ms. Corey is expected to meet with Principal, AP, and Board Chair to develop staffing budget annually. Initial staffing budget projections begin in February each year.

Enrollment & Student Records

DEBBIE SCHMIDT Hours on site: 8:00am-3:45pm Email address: dschmidt@kcsma.net

Contact for those interested in information about KCSMA, student registration/Lottery process and timelines. Available for family tours by appointment. Coordinates Lottery in February and maintains Waitlist throughout the year. Student records when transferring in or out. Contact for withdrawal or new registration. Liaison between KCSMA and Cobb County for attendance information, student reporting for county and state. Responsible for contacting teachers when student information/files come in so registration or files can be reviewed by teacher for special needs.

Communication Plan

22

Guidance Counselors

ZOE MALLON Hours on Site: 7:30am- 4:00pm Email Address: zmallon@kcsma.net JENNIFER BROWN Hours on Site: 8:00am- 2:00pm Email Address: jbrown@kcsma.net Attend training, provides school-wide training for staff, coordinate, and oversee all standardized testing. Serve as administrators for ESOL or GAA testing. Schedule, coordinate, and lead all 504 meetings. Maintain records of meetings and adjustments made to 504 plans. Provide parents, teachers, and all relevant staff with copies and/or adjustments of 504 plans. Coordinate, conduct, and keep proper records for SST (Student Support Team). Also provide “help sessions” for teachers to assist them in understanding the process of SST, implementing strategies, and keeping data records of student progress. Coordinate RTI (Response to Intervention) program and work closely with special education department and outsourced school psychological testing process as needed. Develop and deliver appropriate classroom guidance lessons to all classrooms school-wide. Plan and conduct small group counseling for students who share a common area of concern, such as, social skills, changing families, etc. Meet with students for individual counseling on an “as needed” basis, when a student, teacher, or parents requests that the student see a counselor. Note: School counseling is not therapeutic in nature and is not on-going. Provide families with resources, as needed, such as clinical counseling groups and local organizations which can assist with food or financial concerns. Serve as the DEFACS (Department of Family and Children Services) designees for school. Assist teachers and staff with making a referral if needed. Plan and implement programs to improve school climate, such as monthly life skills, Red Ribbon Week, Career day, compliment cards, and student celebrations/awards. Responsible for student recommendations for transferring students. Coordinate and implement school-wide career program and provide documentation/information for CCRPI concerning career readiness.

Communication Plan

23

Front Office Coordinator TARA MCLEOD Hours on site: 7:00am-3:45pm

Email address:tmcleod@kcsma.net

First point of contact for parents when they enter or call the school. Ms. McLeod manages the front office, checks students in and out, and is in charge of initial verification for authorized parties for child pick-up. It is likely that if your student is late, Ms. McLeod will be the adult writing their tardy slip. She is also helpful in sharing information about the daily school schedule. Ms. Tara fields all incoming calls, assisting or directing parents to the person who can help them. She also sends out One Call mass parent emails and One Call mass phone blasts at the direction of Mr. Traster and Mrs. Frey. Ms. McLeod maintains and manages the Carpool System and carpool tags and is happy to help guide parents in getting “forgotten” items to their student. For teachers, Ms. McLeod maintains and updates the school calendar, paid time-off request forms (PTO forms). She coordinates school pictures twice per year and serves as first point of contact when a parent is interested in talking with a teacher during the day. Ms. Tara will assist parents with scheduling an appointment for a teacher meeting, by providing them with the teacher’s email address and letting them know when the teacher has planning; then suggesting the parent contact the teacher to schedule a meeting. Ms. McLeod does not make copies for teachers and staff. She does not call or locate subs for staff and teachers, and she does not update or change attendance.

Communication Plan

24

KCSMA Board of Directors Email address: board@kcsboard.com

The purpose of the all-volunteer Governing Board is to- Create and support a clear mission, vision, and performance objectives for KCSMA Establish accountability plans for the educational program, fiscal viability, and legal compliance Review and maintain bylaws and establish policies consistent with the mission Be accountable for fiscal health including capital assets, operating budgets, fundraising, and endowments Hire, support, manage, and assess the school leader Establish strategic plans Assure compliance with laws, regulations, and minimize exposure Ensure effective organizational planning Ensure adequate resources are in place to execute the program with fidelity Enhance the charter school’s public image The Governing Board is not directly involved in- The day to day management of the school Personnel decisions outside of the school leader Addressing/mediating complaints outside of the formal grievance process that is available to both parents and staff The KCSMA Governing Board is separate from both the Cobb County School Board and the KCSMA PTO. All stakeholders are welcome to email the KCSMA Board at board@kcsboard.com and their questions will be directed to the correct party.

Communication Plan

25

Deliverable/Description Type (Man/Mktg/Info) Target Audiences Delivery Method Delivery

Frequency Who

Responsible

State of the School Report Mandatory

District Stakeholders

Parents/Guardians

Summaries of results; graphical

representation of change in

scores/indicators

Annually

Kay Frey

Jason Traster

One Call Now mass parent

communication Mandatory

Parents/Guardians

Students

Phone Call

Email

On-going

Tara McLeod at direction of Kay Frey,

Jason Traster

PT0 Informational Parents/Teachers/Students

Formal Meetings with agendas

Minutes will be taken

at each meeting

Monthly PT0 Elected Officials

District-required reports and other

information Mandatory District

Summaries of results; graphical

representation of change in

scores/indicators

Quarterly

Kay Frey

Jason Traster

Regularly Scheduled Parent-Teacher

Conferences Mandatory

Parents/Guardians

Students

Individual/Scheduled meetings with teachers

and students

1 Mandatory annually

1 as needed

All teachers

KCSMA Principal’s Newsletter

Informational

Parents/Guardians

Students

Email to Parents

Once per month

Kay Frey Jason Traster

Updated KCSMA Website

Informational Marketing

Parents/Guardians, Students, Community, Prospective Students

Accurate and timely information

viewable/downloadable from the school

website

Once a week/

Twice per month

Ongoing- as needed

Parent volunteer at the direction of Kay Frey,

Jason Traster

Deliverable/Description Type (Man/Mktg/Info) Target Audiences Delivery Method Delivery

Frequency Who

Responsible

Parent Student Handbook Mandatory Parents/Guardians,

Students Electronic copy

available on website

Ongoing Updated annually

Kay Frey Jason Traster

Student Agenda Mandatory Parents/Guardians Accurate and timely information Daily All teachers

Staff Handbook New Employee Handbook Substitute Handbook

Mandatory Certified and classified teachers and substitute

teachers

Electronic copy available on Website

Individually emailed to staff

Pre-planning On-going

for substitutes

Kay Frey Jason Traster

Social Media (Facebook) Informational Parents/Guardians,

Students/Staff Facebook Ongoing

Ms. McLeod at the

direction of Ms. Frey,

Mr. Traster

Social Media (Facebook) Informational Parents/Guardians,

Students/Staff Facebook Ongoing

Ms. McLeod at the

direction of Ms. Frey,

Mr. Traster Teacher blogs

Grade level blogs Informational Students/Parents Parent/Guardian emails Weekly All teachers

Chick-fil-A “Student of the Month” Informational Students/Staff/Parents

Recognition Assembly

for good choices Monthly Guidance

Department

Student Progress Reports Mandatory Parents/Guardians Mailed denoting

progress towards goals

Once every 4.5

weeks All teachers

Updated Statement of Purpose, vision,

beliefs

Mandatory, Informational,

Marketing

Parents/Guardians

Community

Students

Mission/Beliefs/Vision will be updated on all documents and in all

classrooms.

Will revise as needed

until all documents

reflect vision and

beliefs

School Improvement

Team Governing

Board

All teachers

Communication Plan

26

Town Hall Meetings

Mandatory

Parents/ Teachers/ Students/

Community

Informal

meetings, informational but open to

Q & A

Annually

Governing Board including exofficio

members

Knights News Bulletin Board

Informational

Parents/ Teachers/ Students/

Community

Bulletin board in

high visibility area within

school

Ongoing

Teachers/ Admin

Compliment

Board

Informational

Students/ Parents

Posted in

Lunch area

Bi-weekly

Teachers

Electronic

Suggestion Box

Informational

Staff

Designated

email address &

responder(s)

On-going

KCSMA School Climate Committee/

Administration

Electronic

Suggestion Box

Informal

Parents

Designated

email address and responder

On-going

SIT Parent Representative

Volunteer Hours

Informational

Parents

Designated

email address

On-going

Administration

KCSMA partners with the following business/community members: Chick-fil-A Walmart Liberty Mutual Vulcan Quarry Kid to Kid Consignment Novelis Georgia Tech

Communication Plan

27

Student of the month is celebrated monthly at an assembly sponsored by Chick-fil-A. Colleagues vote monthly on Chick-fil-A Teacher of the month. Teachers, students and their families enjoy a special dinner from Chick-fil-A. Staff surveys indicates staff desire for increased meetings with the principal as grade levels, in addition to whole group. Principal and/or Assistant Principal meets with individual grade levels each month to address grade specific needs and issues. Staff members distribute student compliment cards which are read aloud at the school’s bi-weekly morning meeting, attended by all staff and students. KCSMA Governing Board sponsors a Staff Christmas Party annually. KCSMA Teacher of the Year is determined by a staff vote. Teacher of the Year is invited to attend the county wide Give Teachers a Hand Breakfast, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce. Chamber of Commerce hosts Back to School Bash for three area elementary schools, one of which is KCSMA. KCSMA Parent Teacher Organization is in its 5th year. President 2014-2015 – Carissa McConkey. PTO parent membership continues to grow, as do the events and activities for families and students. Activities for 2014-15 include County Fair, International Celebration, local restaurants family dinner nights. PTO sponsors a Back to School teacher breakfast annually as well as luncheons for staff throughout the year. Stakeholder communication tools include: E-mails, mass telephone message system and regular classroom newsletters offer additional contact tools, along with teacher blogs and a monthly newsletter from the principal, in addition to telephone communication, student agendas, and written communication. School and Board websites offer all stakeholders updated information through links to classrooms, PTO, and Enrollment Department. Engrade, an online student grade reporting system is available for grades 4-6. Parents may access Engrade as a means to stay current on student progress, classroom assignments, student grades, and attendance. Parents are expected to fulfill 20 volunteer hours as part of their child’s enrollment at KCSMA. This ensures some degree of parent involvement in the school. Volunteer opportunities are posted via parent emails, monthly newsletters, mass telephone messages, the school website, and FaceBook. Kennesaw Charter Science and Math Academy enjoys notable parent participation in fund-raising activities, after school events, and school wide celebrations, which makes it possible to offer students numerous opportunities for enhanced instruction and socialization. The leadership and staff of Kennesaw Charter Science and Math Academy ensure the school is responsive to community expectations and stakeholder satisfaction by including parent and community representation on school committees, conducting parent surveys, hosting Parent Night meetings, scheduling parent-teacher conferences, and encouraging parent participation on a day to day basis. Surveys are a practical tool used by the school to obtain and maintain a direct line of communication with stakeholders on questions, suggestions, and opinions. Surveys are generated internally by

Communication Plan

28

leadership, by AdvancEd, and by the Georgia Department of Education. Information derived from these surveys is used for continuous improvement in systems and procedures.

Communication Plan

29

Resources and Support Systems

KCSMA strives to provide lower class size than traditional public schools in the area. Average class size in Kindergarten is 19, first grade through fifth grade average is 22 students, and sixth grade class size is 24 students. However, this year 5th grade was above projected student numbers at about 26 students. There are 9 Kindergarten classes. Each Kindergarten class shares a half-day paraprofessional. All certified and classified employees are highly qualified, with the exception of two Special Education teachers currently enrolled in the GTAPP program. KCSMA staff meets every Tuesday. Grade levels have common planning 5 days per week. One day per week common planning focuses on data. Grade level chairs are responsible for sending grade level planning minutes to principal or assistant principal once per week. Crisis Prevention Intervention training is provided for designated teachers annually. Additionally, CPR and AED training are provided every 2 years.

Communication Plan

30

School Improvement Team Description and Responsibil ities

School Leadership Team members were elected in spring 2013. School Leadership Team, (also referred to as School Improvement Team) members serve a 2 year term, but can be re-elected by staff at the end of the term. School Leadership Team minutes and SIT meeting schedule are kept in the front office for public access. The purpose of KCSMA School Improvement Team is to make decisions and oversee implementation of decisions regarding continuous school improvement through student achievement by:

• Supporting and monitoring school-based committees to ensure implementation of committee goals

• Developing and monitoring school protocols and procedures regarding student achievement • Monitoring and communicating current charter and school, federal, state, local legislative

updates • Ensuring data-driven decision making to improve student achievement and school success. • Building leadership capacity in students and staff through distributive leadership • Ensuring shared decision-making including all stakeholders

Improvement decisions including parent and staff perspectives will produce informed, thoughtful outcomes. Staff representation on SIT is determined by certified teachers’ secret ballot votes. If any member of the team cannot participate, an interim member may be selected by the team to serve the remainder of the term. Parent representatives are nominated by parents and staff members. Nominees will be selected by secret ballot parent vote. This is usually conducted by survey, a voting box in the school office, or an election that occurs when a representative number of parents are present at a school event. Two to three parents may be elected. SIT term – 2 years. Members may be re-elected at the end of the term, but are not required to accept the position. Confidentiality Parent representatives may share SIT minutes with parents through PTO meetings or newsletters. ONLY conversations that are written into the minutes by the SIT Secretary may be shared. Confidential information about children is sometimes discussed in meetings. If information is not entered into SIT minutes it is not to be discussed with anyone outside SIT meeting. SIT Discussion Topics Topics specific to a teacher, parent, classroom, grade level, or department should be directed to Chairperson or Mrs. Frey. If outcome of this meeting is unresolved, please place it on the upcoming SIT Agenda. Only topics submitted for the SIT Agenda prior to the SIT meeting will be discussed. School

Communication Plan

31

Improvement Team is NOT the “Complaint Department”. Concerns, criticisms submitted to SIT members should be accompanied by suggestions for improvement. SIT members do not advocate for those submitting ideas, questions, or concerns. SIT members should not address or attempt to intercede, respond, offer solutions, or make commitments to parents’ input on behalf of the School Improvement Team. If someone approaches you with a concern, and you know it does not meet the criteria described here, encourage them to speak with the teacher, Mrs. Frey, or whoever you think will be most helpful. Those submitting topics must put the concern/suggestion in writing so the SIT member can present it exactly as it was meant to be presented, with no editorializing. SIT members should neither agree nor disagree with those submitting ideas, concerns, or questions. Parent representatives should bring input from parents regarding “continuous school improvement through student achievement” by submitting item for agenda prior to meeting date and presenting item at SIT meeting. SIT response will be shared with parents, by SIT parent reps via official SIT meeting minutes. SIT Secretary is responsible for taking minutes of each meeting and sending to SIT members in a timely fashion. Decisions regarding school improvement require a majority vote by the SIT. Topics not appropriate for SIT include but are not limited to:

• Upcoming afterschool events/activities • School Calendar questions that can be answered by using Google Calendar or the Parent

Portal • Items not submitted for the Agenda prior to the meeting • Anything that can be found in the staff or parent handbook • Concerns, suggestions or questions that have not first involved contact with the person most

directly related to the issue (teacher, grade level chair, counselor, office manager, lunch coordinator, etc.). In other words, please follow the chain of command.

• Personnel issues • Maintenance/Custodial complaints or questions – these go directly to Geoff, Mr. Traster,

Mrs. Frey • PTO concerns/questions/suggestions. PTO related topics go directly to PTO President.

Volunteers from America Reads remediate students in grades 1-5. Tutoring provided by America Reads occurs during the instructional day. As the student population increases, so does the need for additional administrative support. Leadership is challenged with utilizing office personnel in multiple capacities while maintaining the quality of job. Distribution of tasks continues to be a goal as roles and responsibilities are re-defined, cross-training occurs, and succession plans are amended to reflect changes in the department. Economic sustainability is vital to the success of KCSMA. The school’s CFO works closely with the KCSMA Governing Board, Principal, and Cobb County to ensure sufficient funds to support educational programming and maintenance of facilities. Monthly financial records are reviewed by the Board and by Wells Fargo, who oversees the municipal bonds secured by KCSMA for the new campus and school. Bambo Sonaike CPA Accounting Firm, conducts an annual audit of all financial records. Mr. Sonaike

Communication Plan

32

reports audit results at the October board meeting. Results are on file with the CFO, and are sent to CCSD and GaDOE. Administration and Crisis Team provide training for staff members annually. The School Safety Plan is reviewed with staff members throughout the year. Fire Drills are conducted and documented monthly; an annual tornado drill is conducted in February. Documentation on both is filed and forwarded to Cobb County. CPR training is provided for the staff on a bi-yearly basis. There are currently 10 members of the KCSMA staff qualified to perform CPR or to operate the AED machine. CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) certification training occurs yearly. A registered nurse is on staff, and provides service from 8:30am – 2:00pm daily.

Communication Plan

33

Governance and Leadership

KCSMA Policy Manual, written by the Principal and KCSMA Governing Board, in cooperation with Georgia Charter Schools Association, is in place and accessible to all staff members. A Parent/Student Handbook is distributed at the beginning of each school year. Staff Handbooks are distributed at the beginning of each school year. Each is also mailed electronically. Substitute teachers receive a Substitute Handbook when they attend training with the Principal or designee. Staff handbook and New Teacher handbook are reviewed, revised and distributed yearly. Teacher Leaders’ opportunities for growth and advancement include chairing committees, mentoring new or struggling teachers, taking the lead position for the grade level or facilitating staff Professional Development. KCSMA principal and assistant principal are credentialed to evaluate certified teachers in Georgia using the Georgia TKES (Teacher Keys Evaluation System). Principal will be evaluated by Mr. Roland Wallace, KCSMA governing board member and credentialed LKES evaluator. Assistant Principal will be evaluated by Principal Kay Frey, credentialed LKES (Leader Keys Evaluation System) evaluator. The Principal presents to the KCSMA Governing Board a yearly Professional Growth Plan outlining administrative goals and objectives for the upcoming year. The Principal is responsible for demonstrating mid-year and end-of-year progress towards goals. The results of this plan, combined with student achievement scores and staff/parent satisfaction surveys, are submitted to the Board annually.

Communication Plan

34

Communication Plan

35

Ethnicity Percentage

Asian 6.7%

Black 48.6%

Hispanic 9.2%

Multi Racial 4.3%

Other <1%

White 31.4%

# of Students % of Students

Students with Disabilities 56 6.2%

English Language Learners 46 5%

Gifted 90 10.1%

Kennesaw Charter Science & Math Academy

Demographics

Student Attendance Rate (2014) 97.4%

Enrollment 2014-15

K-5 - 850 6- 40 Total - 890

Communication Plan

36

Charter Goals Year 4

Grade 3: Measure 1: 94% of students will exceed standards on CRCT Science assessment. Actual performance was 50%. Measure 2: 43% of students will exceed standards on CRCT Math assessment. Actual performance was 56% Measure 3: 53% of students will exceed standards on CRCT Reading assessment. Actual performance was 64% Measure 4: 44% of students will exceed standards on CRCT English/Language Arts assessment. Actual performance was 42%. Grade 4: Measure 1: 50% of students will exceed standards on CRCT Science Assessment. Actual performance was 57 % Measure 2: 43% of students will exceed standards on CRCT Math Assessment. Actual performance was 55% Measure 3: 43% of students will exceed standards on CRCT Reading Assessment. Actual performance was 65% Measure 4: 44% of students will exceed standards on CRCT English/Language Arts Assessment. Actual performance was 46% Grade 5: Measure 1: 41% of students will exceed standards on CRCT Science Assessment. Actual performance was 60% Measure 2: 36% of students will exceed standards on CRCT Math Assessment. Actual performance was 46% Measure 3: 19% of students will exceed standards on CRCT Reading Assessment. Actual performance was 64% Measure 4: 38% of students will exceed standards on CRCT English/Language Arts Assessment. Actual performance was 57% Measure 5: 22 % of students will exceed standards on 5

th Grade Writing assessment. Actual performance was 27

%. Grade 6: Measure 1: 98% of students will meet or exceed standards on CRCT Science Assessment. Actual performance was 90% Measure 2: 85% of students will meet or exceed standards on CRCT Math Assessment. Actual performance was 95% Measure 3: 98% of students will meet or exceed standards on CRCT Reading Assessment. Actual performance was 95% Measure 4: 99% of students will meet or exceed standards on CRCT English/Language Arts Assessment. Actual performance was 95%

Communication Plan

37

KCSMA

Organizational Goals 2014-2015.

Read charter and see

KCSMA will retain at least 92% students Actual retention rate 96.4%

KCSMA will retain at least 90% staff Actual retention rate 77 %

Percentage of students promoted (5 year average) 99%

Stakeholder Satisfaction

90% families will rate KCSMA 90% or higher 92.6% satisfaction rate

90% staff will rate KCSMA 90% or higher 93.1% satisfaction rate

Communication Plan

38

2012 2013 2014

Meets & Exceeds Exceeds Meets &

Exceeds Exceeds Meets & Exceeds Exceeds

KCSMA 99% 30% 96% 33% 98% 27%

Big Shanty 90% 13% 89% 11% 84% 14%

Hayes 76% 4% 73% 13% 80% 13%

Cobb County 84% 14% 82% 15% 84% 16%

Georgia 80% 11% 79% 13% 80% 13%

5th Grade Writing Assessment

Communication Plan

39

Reading: % Met or

Exceeded the standard ELA: % Met or

Exceeded the standard Math: % Met or

Exceeded the standard Science: % Met or

Exceeded the standard Social Studies: % Met or Exceeded the standard

2012 2013 2014 2012 2013 2014 2012 2013 2014 2012 2013 2014 2012 2013 2014

3rd Grade

KCSMA 92 95 96 93 84 96 89 72 88 85 79 87 92 88 92 Big

Shanty 94 96 96 93 94 94 80 86 84 96 88 86 85 90 90

Hayes 89 95 96 92 85 91 79 81 81 72 79 73 82 85 83

Lewis 97 96 96 94 87 84 90 84 92 90

Fair Oaks 97 88 91 82 90 82 77 62 69 77

Cobb 93 94 84 92 91 92 84 82 84 81 83 81 83 88 88

Georgia 91 92 92 91 88 89 81 78 81 78 78 77 81 83 84 4th Grade

KCSMA 96 97 97 98 97 93 85 93 88 96 98 94 94 94 91 Big

Shanty 96 97 98 93 91 94 82 85 86 90 90 85 90 90 85

Hayes 93 96 92 93 89 88 81 82 67 82 78 76 76 80 71

Lewis 95 94 94 85 93 77 91 79 88 80

Fair Oaks 75 91 85 87 77 87 62 74 46 69

Cobb 94 95 96 94 93 92 85 88 85 85 87 85 82 86 85

Georgia 90 93 94 91 90 89 80 84 82 81 83 81 78 81 81 5th Grade

KCSMA 100 97 98 100 99 99 97 97 96 92 100 93 97 93 89 Big

Shanty 96 97 97 97 96 96 88 92 86 81 81 87 85 83 87

Hayes 91 91 92 95 95 95 83 91 89 72 82 78 62 76 71

Lewis 96 96 96 95 90 91 82 80 83

Communication Plan

40

Fair Oaks 89 89 95 90 96 54 74 39 69 Cobb 94 95 97 96 96 96 91 93 91 82 84 85 81 84 84

Georgia 91 93 95 94 94 95 84 90 88 78 80 82 77 81 81

KCSMA 94 97 95 100 97 95 88 92 95 85 92 90 88 97 80

Cobb 98 98 99 93 95 95 86 89 89 80 82 83 80 84 87

Georgia 96 96 97 91 92 92 80 83 84 73 74 75 73 78 80

Communication Plan

41

Performance Targets

Based on 2011 Elementary and Middle CRCT Proficiency Rates

(includes CRCT-M and GAA)

*Georgia Department of Education Dr. John D. Barge, State School Superintendent

February 26, 2013

CCRPI Level

State Assess

Student Group

2012 Proficiency

Rate

2012 KCSMA

Performance

2013 Performance

Target

2013 KCSMA

Performance

2014 Performance

Target

2014 KCSMA

Performance

2015 Performance

Target

2015 KCSMA

Performance English Language Arts 91.5 997 92.3 95 93 95.7 n/a n/a

Mathematics 85.4 90 86.8 89 88.1 90.8 n/a n/a

Reading 93.4 96 94 97 94.6 97 n/a n/a

Science 74.8 87 80.3 92 82.3 91 n/a n/a

Elementary Middle

Social Studies

State Target All Students

77.2 93 79.3 93 81.3 90.6 n/a n/a

Communication Plan

42

KCSMA will establish baseline data in testing year 2014-2015 using the Georgia Milestones end of year assessment.

The school’s academic goal for spring 2015 administration of the Georgia Milestones:

To score a minimum of 2% higher than the state and county on the baseline administration of the Georgia Milestones test.

2013 2014 2015 Indicator School District State School District State School District State

CRCT (% Meet or Exceed) Grade 3 Reading 95% 94% 92% 96% 94% 92% ELA 84% 91% 88% 96% 92% 89% Math 72% 82% 78% 88% 84% 81% Science 79% 83% 78% 87% 81% 77% Social Studies 88% 88% 83% 92% 88% 84%

Grade 4 Reading 97% 95% 93% 97% 96% 94% ELA 97% 93% 90% 93% 92% 89% Math 93% 88% 84% 88% 85% 82% Science 98% 87% 83% 94% 85% 81% Social Studies 94% 86% 81% 91% 85% 81%

Grade 5 Reading 97% 95% 93% 98% 97% 95% ELA 99% 96% 94% 99% 96% 95% Math 97% 93% 90% 96% 91% 88% Science 100% 84% 80% 93% 85% 82% Social Studies 93% 84% 81% 89% 84% 81%

Communication Plan

43

Reading Goals 2014-2015 for 2nd Grade

During each year of the charter term, the percentage of charter school students scoring in the meets and exceeds category on End of Year tests will be greater than the state or local average, whichever is higher, by at least 3% in all subject areas. KCSMA will increase number of 2nd grade students exceeding Reading standards on 2nd grade End of Grade test from 11% who exceeded standards in 2014 to 14 % exceeding by 2015

Target

2nd Grade

Strategies and Action Steps

Responsibility

Measure of Progress Timeline

Increase percentage of 2nd students who meet or exceed state or local average, by 3% during every year of the charter term Increase number of students exceeding standards on 2nd grade End of Grade Reading test from 11% to 14% by spring 2015.

With focus on comprehension and main idea, guided reading time will be increased to 70 minutes per day With focus on Point of view, students will collaborate in small groups to re-tell and explore who, what, how , when, why 3 times per week America Reads tutor will work individually with targeted students on comprehension skills, main idea, and point of view 2 times per week EIP students are provided 2 sessions of services per day –small group setting, push in or pull out

2nd grade teacher team EIP teacher SpEd teacher

DRA/Lexile bands Quarterly -May Informal assessments weekly Benchmarks each 9 weeks End of year test May 2015

Communication Plan

44

1st Grade Reading Goals 2014-2015

During each year of the charter term, the percentage of charter school students scoring in the meets and exceeds category on End of Year tests will be greater than the state or local average, whichever is higher, by at least 3% in all subject areas. KCSMA will increase number of 1st grade students exceeding standards on 1st grade End of Grade Reading test from 44 who exceeded standards in 2014 to 47% exceeding by 2015.

Reading Target

1st Grade

Strategies and Action Steps

Responsibility

Measure of Progress Timeline

Increase percentage of 1st students who meet or exceed state or local average, by 3% during every year of the charter term Increase number of students exceeding standards on 1st grade End of Grade Reading assessment from 44% to 47% by spring 2015.

Additional training in Guided Reading and Running Records. Specific focus areas: letter sounds, word recognition,spelling, phonemic awareness) Increased teacher accountability for collecting and using data towards raising student achievement in ELA Fundations training and implementation of daily phonics instruction Tutoring in small groups, pull out and push in EIP model daily

1st grade teacher team EIP teacher ESOL Teacher SpEd teacher

Running Records data every 2 weeks -May DRA data quarterly Informal quizzes weekly - may Bemchmarks every 9 weeks End of year tests May 2015

Communication Plan

45

Kindergarten ELA Goals 2014-2015

During each year of the charter term, the percentage of charter school students scoring in the meets and exceeds category on End of Year tests will be greater than the state or local average, whichever is higher, by at least 3% in all subject areas. KCSMA will increase number of Kindergarten students who meet or exceed standards on K End of Grade ELA test from 87% who met or exceeded standards in 2014 to 90% by 2015.

Target

Kindergarten

Strategies and Action Steps

Responsibility

Measure of Progress Timeline

Increase percentage of K students who meet or exceed state or local average, by 3% during every year of the charter term. KCSMA 2013-14 was 87% Increase number of students who meet or exceed standards on K ELA End of Year test from 87% to 90 % by 2015.

Pre-testing will determine skills levels for small group instruction – focus areas: letters sounds, word recognition, blending and segmenting and phonemic awareness. Increased training and implementation of Guided Reading/Running Records. DRA/Lexile bands assessment will begin earlier in the school year. Increased training and implementation of Fundations phonics 45 minute small group remediation to target skills level above Increased vertical teaming for optimal preparation for 1st grade

K teacher team EIP teacher ESOL teacher SpEd teacher

Running Records monthly August – May 2015 DRA data every 9 weeks Oct- May 2015 Student work samples weekly August – may 2015 GKIDS ongoing – May 2015

Communication Plan

46

Waivers

KCSMA is exempted from all local and State Board of Education rules, policies, regulations and procedures and or from provisions of Title 20 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated except where it has been noted within the Charter or that are not allowed by law as established by the “blanket waiver” amendment re-established July 2005 for charter schools. KCSMA recognizes that State law does not allow the following provisions to be waived:

(a) the Charter Schools Act (O.C.G.A. § 20-2-2061 through §20-2-2071); (b) the accountability assessment program (O.C.G.A. § 20-14-30 through §20-14-41); (c) the Open Meetings Act (O.C.G.A. § 50-14-1 through §50-14-6) and the Open Records Act (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 through § 50-18-79); (d) federal, state, and local statutes, rules, regulations, and court orders relating to civil rights; special education; insurance; the protection of the physical health and safety of students, employees, and visitors; conflicting interest transactions; and the prevention of unlawful conduct; (e) laws relating to unlawful conduct in or near a public school; (f) laws prohibiting the charging of tuition or fees to attend a public school, except as may be authorized by O.C.G.A. § 20-2-133; (g) the reporting requirements of O.C.G.A. § 20-2-320; and (h) the brief period of quiet reflection provision of O.C.G.A. § 20-2-1050.

The request for a blanket waiver, including facilities, ensures that KCSMA will continue to have the maximum flexibility for the administration to make local decisions to meet the needs of the students as well as to use a facility optimum to the requirements of the charter school. The autonomy afforded to the school via this blanket waiver will help the school increase student achievement. Examples of ways in which KCSMA intends to use the flexibility afforded by a blanket waiver include, but are not limited to: Formation and Duties of Local School Councils – O.C.G.A. Section 20-2-85 and 20-2-86 KCSMA will utilize a local governing board comprised of parents and community members. Parents or guardians of KCSMA students will make up the majority of the board. These parents will be elected by the body of parents/guardians of all KCSMA students. Dedicated community member positions on the board ensure that the Kennesaw/Cobb County community will be involved in the operation and success of the school. The use of a local governing board will allow KCSMA to be responsive to the needs of our school community in order to fulfill the mission of the school and accomplish the goals established in this charter document.

Communication Plan

47

Salary Schedules – O.C.G.A. 20-2-212, 20-2-212.1, and 20-2-212.2, SBOE Rules 160-5-2-.04 and 160-5-2-.05 KCSMA will select, hire and retain teachers based upon their academic qualifications, experience, demonstrated ability to teach and to carry out the mission of KCSMA and the outcomes of evaluations throughout the school year. Waiving state and district salary requirements will allow KCSMA to meet other academic and financial objectives detailed in this charter petition including, but not limited to successful implementation of a rigorous science curriculum and professional development schedule, reduced class size, purchase of a new school facility, development of science labs and maintaining a fiscally responsible budget that ensures adequate cash reserves. Common Minimum Facility Requirements – O.C.G.A. 20-2-261 and SBOE Rule 160-5-4- .08; Approval, Processing, and Design of Plans and Specifications for Public School Construction and Standards and Construction Costs Guidelines – SBOE Rule 160-4-.01, 160-4-.10, 160-4-.15-.16, KCSMA will utilize flexibility in selecting and/or building a new facility that will meet the needs of the school population, instructional needs and budgetary constraints. Specificiations for this facility are not expected to be significantly different from those used by the CCSD for elementary and middle schools. KCSMA will ensure compliance with all local and state safety and accessibility requirements. Professional Learning – SBOE Rule 160-3-3-.04 and 160-3-3-.10 In order to support the school mission and curriculum focus on science and mathematics, KCSMA will utilize flexibility in selection professional development opportunities that will further the academic goals of the school. Textbook/Instructional Materials Selection and Recommendation – SBOE Rule 160-4-4- .10, 160-4-4-.20, 160-4-2-.18 In order to support the school mission and curriculum focus on science and mathematics, KCSMA will utilize flexibility in selecting textbooks and instructional materials that will best meet the academic needs of our student population and help achieve the goals outlined in this charter petition. All instructional materials will be evaluated based on the ability to integrate science and/or mathematics across the curriculum. Class Size - SBOE Rule 160-5-1-.8 Class Size Appendix A KCSMA intends to implement class size restrictions with maximum class sizes set at 18 in Kindergarten, 20 in grades 1-5 and 22 in grades 6-8. KCSMA believes that a limited class size will have a significant impact on both our ability to carry out the mission of the school and on student achievement. The benefits of the requested waivers will be measured based on the outcomes of the assessment program and the successes of the school improvement plan. Details of the school’s assessment program can be found in section B Accountability and Evaluation. These waivers do not undermine the state rules and regulations for public schools because the school does not intend to create class sizes in excess of state mandates. Also, the charter school intends to hire and retain the most appropriate, highly qualified teachers and staff for its students and programs.

Communication Plan

48

KCSMA also understands that the No Child Left Behind Act will require certified teachers and will comply with all applicable laws. The teachers hired will be within the mandatory guidelines of section 3.2 of SACS document Accreditation Standards for Special Purpose schools. KCSMA School Improvement Plan was made available to staff and SIT Stakeholders were involved in the writing of the plan. 2014-2015 School Improvement Plan was presented to SIT and KCSMA staff for vote. Results of the vote are as follows: School Improvement Plan was accepted by a vote of ___ out of ____ staff members.