Submitted by Peak to Peak Charter Schools, Inc.,
a
Ideals for Students, Faculty, Parents and Board Members
Educational Program and Standards
Plan for Evaluating Student Performance
Displacement of Students and Staff
References
Appendices
A. Peak to Peak Charter Schools Inc., Board of Directors
B. What Selective Colleges Want: Minimum H.S. Course Requirements for Applicants
C. Peak to Peak Statement of (Student) Interest
D. BVSD PreK-12 Enrollment by Community (Max Capacity and Enrollment by School)
F. BVSD Memorandums & Newsletters
G. Daily Camera Articles on School Consolidations & Under-enrolled Schools
H. Peak to Peak Budget
I. Mathematics Equals
Contract with BVSD - Modifies original proposal
The Board of Directors of
Peak to Peak Charter Schools, Inc., a
The elementary, middle and high school programs have been carefully crafted as a unified, coherent and challenging curriculum, which progressively builds each student's foundation of knowledge and mastery of skills. High expectations are an important part of the Peak to Peak school culture. Students will be encouraged to work hard and strive to achieve their full potential.
A liberal arts education has been recognized throughout history for its broad benefits and its appropriateness as a foundation for future learning. By focusing on a liberal arts college preparatory program, Peak to Peak achieves two important objectives: it prepares students to successfully meet the educational challenges of higher education and it prepares them to be well-educated citizens in an increasingly complicated world. Peak to Peak will take this time-tested education and make it accessible to students who are interested in a focused college preparatory program, regardless of their cultural or economic backgrounds.
High School Program
Peak to Peak's high school program will enroll 400-600 students, significantly smaller than enrollments at BVSD's comprehensive high schools. This school will have the security of a closed campus, and a collegial atmosphere in which class sizes are consistent and moderate, every student is known and valued as an individual, and teachers have the opportunity to develop more thoughtful relationships with students.
In designing the curriculum, Peak to Peak surveyed over 40 colleges and universities regarding their entrance requirements (Appendix B). Survey results revealed a common emphasis on traditional liberal arts subjects. This finding led to the development of a sequence of required and elective courses in each core area, ensuring that all Peak to Peak graduates exceed minimum requirements to attend a college of their choice.
Peak to Peak has developed an outreach plan and will recruit, retain and graduate a diverse student body. Recruitment efforts include visiting schools and working with outreach organizations to attract minorities and other students who may not otherwise have considered a college preparatory program. As part of retention efforts, Peak to Peak will offer a summer Jump Start program for incoming students, which will be devoted to the development of skills needed for academic success.
As part of its goal to graduate all of its students and have them be accepted by a four-year college of their choice, all students in the middle and high school programs will participate in comprehensive college planning and counseling. Students and parents will be involved through seminars and educational programs on preparing -- academically, socially and financially-- for college.
Middle School Program
The Peak to Peak middle school program (grades 6, 7, 8) is modeled after BVSD's Summit (Charter) Middle School. This program offers a challenging sequence of courses in core academic areas and a variety of electives to allow students to round out their education and become well prepared for any high school program.
Students will select courses in the Peak to Peak middle school program based on their interests, performance on placement exams, and guidance from parents, teachers and counselors. Most courses in the middle school program will have students from several grade levels. Students are encouraged to test into higher levels of courses so that they can achieve their goals for challenge and advancement.
Elementary School Program
Peak to Peak's Elementary School program will
use the nationally recognized Core Knowledge Sequence as its basis for content.
Core Knowledge provides a rich, varied program that has shown great success
with students from a wide variety of backgrounds. It has been well received by
BVSD parents and has demonstrated a record of successful student achievement
both locally and nationally. When combined with the strong skill-building
programs Peak to Peak will adopt, the curriculum will meet or exceed all
Implementation
Peak to Peak will open for 9th and 10th grades in the fall of 1999. Initial enrollment will be 200-225 students split between 9th and 10th grades. In the subsequent two years, Peak to Peak will expand to serve 11th and 12th grade students, with an expected total enrollment for the high school program of between 400-600 students, depending on space limitations.
The elementary program is planned to begin with an enrollment of 125-175 students in the fall of 2000. Ultimately, the elementary program will grow to accommodate two rounds, or approximately 300 students, as space allows.
The middle school program is planned to begin for 6th, 7th and 8th grade in the fall of 2001 with an enrollment of between 200 and 250 students. Peak to Peak will eventually serve up to 350 middle school students.
Facility Plan
Peak to Peak proposes to share space with
existing programs within BVSD. As shown in the District's Facility Master Plan,
many schools have substantial excess capacity. Peak to Peak is willing to be
sited in either an under-utilized facility or in any District space which may
become available within the
Siting Peak to Peak programs in BVSD facilities will bring financial benefit to BVSD, since charter schools operating in BVSD space forego nearly $900 per pupil in funding (15% of per pupil operating revenues (PPOR) and 100% of the insurance and capital reserve allocations) as reimbursement for operating expenses, maintenance, and utilities. If Peak to Peak builds its own facilities, the $900 in per pupil operating revenue, insurance and capital reserve funding which would otherwise be returned to BVSD will instead be paid to banks and real estate lenders. At Peak to Peak's full capacity, this would amount to over $1.1 million per year by the final year of a five year charter.
By locating Peak to Peak programs in under-utilized school facilities, BVSD would ease the financial problems facing the district, allow the District to more easily meet the desires of neighborhood families to keep small neighborhood schools open, and meet the desires of all of the families who want the unique K-12 college preparatory program offered by Peak to Peak.
Peak to Peak's
Provide broad access to an exemplary K-12 liberal arts, college preparatory education that challenges students to achieve their academic potential
Be a community that values and recognizes scholarship, academic achievement, and creativity
Provide an environment in which each student is known, respected, and valued as an individual of great potential and promise
Prepare students to become active and responsible citizens of an interdependent world
The goals and objectives of Peak to Peak derive from its mission statement and ideals. Progress made in meeting these goals will be analyzed annually. Parents, students, faculty, administrators, the Board of Directors (Board) and the Accountability Committee will re-evaluate these goals regularly to update them in response to emerging needs. Such needs will be identified through careful examination of information including annual satisfaction surveys, performance on various tests and assessments, and baseline data gathered on incoming students.
1. GOAL - Provide an exemplary liberal arts college preparatory education from Kindergarten through twelfth grade.
A. Objective - Meet or exceed the BVSD and State of
Measurement - When State academic assessment tests are administered, at least 90% of Peak to Peak students will meet or exceed BVSD and State standards in each subject area.
B. Objective - Provide an excellent, sequential curriculum which builds a student's knowledge base and critical thinking skills, beginning at the elementary level, through a liberal arts, college preparatory education.
Measurement - Students and parents will be involved in the development and implementation of a curriculum assessment plan to insure continuous review and improvement of the Peak to Peak educational program.
C. Objective - Provide appropriate placement for students needing additional support or challenge by conducting qualitative and quantitative assessments as needed.
Measurement - Assessment measures and placement actions will be quantified and reviewed annually by the Accountability Committee.
D. Objective - Ensure that graduating seniors meet the course requirements of
selective public and private colleges and universities.
Measurement - At least 90% of Peak to Peak graduates who choose to apply will be admitted to a four-year college or university.
2. GOAL - Encourage the enrollment, retention, and graduation of students from all economic and ethnic backgrounds.
A. Objective - Establish and maintain effective outreach and support programs.
Measurement - Enrollment and retention data will be analyzed and reviewed
annually to provide baseline data and input on improvement of outreach and retention plans.
3. GOAL - Promote a safe, positive and respectful environment.
A. Objective - Maintain a closed campus.
B. Objective - Value students and parents as customers and be responsive to their concerns in a manner that is consistent with the school's goals and mission.
C. Objective -Enhance each student's social and emotional development
through co-curricular activities.
D. Objective - Encourage parents to participate actively in the school.
E. Objective -Model and foster respect and support among the students,
faculty, staff, administration,
F. Objective - Promote respectful relationships among all members
of the school community by means of the school honor code.
Measurement - The above objectives will be measured by the annual
school satisfaction surveys and from periodic focus groups with parents,
faculty and students. Peak to Peak will generate different
surveys for students, parents, faculty, administrative staff and Board members.
The data will be analyzed for the purpose of developing an action plan for
continuous improvement in school climate and operation.
4. GOAL - Provide students with
opportunities to participate in decision making.
A. Objective - Students will have a meaningful role in:
development and maintenance of the school honor code and discipline policy,
course evaluation, and student government.
B. Objective - There will be student representation on selected
committees as
approved by the Board.
Measurement: Satisfaction surveys will be administered to get
feedback from students at all grade levels. The data will be analyzed for the
purpose of developing an action plan for continuous improvement and reported to
the students.
5. GOAL - Demonstrate fiscal
responsibility.
A. Objective - Maintain records and conduct business in accordance
with customary procedures for financial accountability.
Measurement - Specified in the administrative audit and budget
sections of this proposal.
In addition to the measurable
goals for the school, Peak to Peak has developed ideals for students, faculty,
parents and Board members. Peak to Peak is committed to promoting the
attainment of these ideals and will use them to help recall the intent in
starting the school and to evaluate the success of faculty and students.
Develop skills in critical
reasoning, creative problem solving and higher-order thinking.
Obtain a mastery of English and express ideas
competently and fluently in oral and written presentation.
Achieve a high degree of fluency in a foreign
language.
Master content in each core
subject to the best of one's ability.
Internalize and practice the values of
citizenship, responsibility, personal and intellectual integrity and respect
for the rights and human dignity of oneself and others.
Be part of the larger community through
participation in various activities, such as service projects, internships and
artistic performances.
Develop collaborative skills and the ability
to move easily between independent work and team work.
Personally commit to the effort necessary to
succeed at Peak to Peak
Teach effectively, impart
knowledge, develop skills, and promote understanding of subject areas among
students.
Teach applicable study and research skills.
Model independent thinking
skills, creative problem solving, abstract reasoning, and the same values for
which the students are accountable.
Be active supporters of the school
philosophy, community and policies. Teachers are expected to participate in
staff development programs and are strongly encouraged to support other school
activities.
Continue intellectual and professional
development.
Encourage a cooperative, respectful
partnership with students, parents, administrators, and the Board of Directors.
Provide feedback on the achievement of goals
and objectives.
Assess student performance frequently and
objectively, and communicate performance results honestly and constructively.
Listen and respond to student and parent
concerns in a responsible, constructive and resourceful manner.
Be active supporters of the
school philosophy, community, and policies.
Encourage a cooperative, respectful
partnership with all members of the school community.
Speak honestly and constructively with the
staff or Board members directly involved when problems arise.
Recognize and appreciate excellent work and
efforts by the students, the teachers, and the staff and volunteers who
contribute to the program's success.
Provide the school with constructive feedback
and evaluations that help the school become better for all students.
Support their children's educational needs
outside the classroom in order to enhance their school experience.
Understand and support the homework
philosophy.
Communicate respectfully with teachers,
administrators and staff.
Respect teachers' judgment in the assignment
of grades, and understand that grades convey useful information.
Give direction to the
administrative and teaching staff.
Be accountable to the parents and the public.
Ensure that the goals and policies of the
school are implemented.
Devlop school policies consistent with the mission, goals, ideals and educational program of Peak to Peak, and gather
input from the school staff, students, and parents in developing such policies.
Work on behalf of the entire school, and not
as an advocate specifically for one's own child.
Make careful distinction between official
statements as a Board and statements made as an individual who happens also to be
a Board member.
Create an environment that encourages and
enables individuals to responsibly express their opinions while bringing
together all constituencies in support of the school's mission.
Establish good working relationships with the
administrative staff, faculty, students and parents.
Convey the school's message to the public and
the school's constituencies, and build public support for the school.
Peak to Peak is a
kindergarten through 12th grade school that focuses on providing students at
all grade levels with the opportunity to take challenging courses in a small,
collegial environment that supports high academic achievement and ambitious
goals. Courses at each level of schooling are carefully designed to prepare
students for the next level so that Peak to Peak graduates are well qualified
to pursue their dreams for college and careers.
There is substantial support for the idea
that the earliest elementary school experiences are fundamental to the ultimate
success of students in high school and to their enrollment in college.
Improving graduation rates, reducing dropout rates, and increasing the rate at
which graduates choose to enroll in higher education all rest on the foundation
of effective schooling long before those children walk through the doors of the
high school program. The opportunity to be challenged, supported and
systematically guided toward a future that includes a college degree is part of
the unique mission of this school and the key rationale for proposing an
integrated K-12 solution.
The Peak to Peak K-12 program
offers careful articulation between levels of schooling and increased
flexibility to adapt to student needs while still maintaining coherent and
challenging curriculum and standards. Peak to Peak elementary, middle and high
school programs have been carefully crafted to offer students and families
consistent high expectations, challenge, and courses that provide a robust
foundation for future learning.
Students at Peak to Peak will be encouraged
to challenge themselves by working hard, making their best efforts in all
endeavors, and taking courses at an appropriately challenging level. As long as
a student and his or her family are committed to the mission, goals and
educational program of Peak to Peak, the school will help the student succeed
and flourish.
Content Standards, Benchmarks,
Curriculum and Assessments
Peak to Peak students will meet or exceed all
BVSD and State of
Special Education/Gifted Education
At Peak to Peak, special education services
will be available to exceptional children, including both students with
disabilities and gifted students, in accordance with Colorado state law C.R.S.
22-20-103(3.4). Within the scope of the educational program defined by Peak to
Peak, the school does not discriminate based on ability or disability. Accomodations for students will be made following the
principles outlined in Teaching Special Education Students in the Regular
Classroom and Teaching the Talented and Gifted in the Regular Classroom
by Susan Winebrenner, and other recommended
resources.
Students at Peak to Peak can expect to be
challenged and to work hard. All students will be expected to master basic
skills and content as well as higher-order thinking skills and concepts.
Elementary school teachers working at Peak to Peak will be experienced in, and
committed to, providing rich and challenging experiences in the classroom;
middle and high school program teachers will demonstrate a high level of
knowledge in their content areas and excellent teaching strategies. Teachers
will use performance grouping within the class as appropriate (grades K-5) and
placement in core courses based on mastery of previous material and aptitude
(grades 6-12) in order to meet the needs of students.
In addition to regular classroom teachers,
the school will employ a resource teacher with certification in special
education and experience in classroom differentiation strategies for
exceptional children. The resource teacher will work with students, classroom
teachers, and parents to identify and develop additional strategies for meeting
the needs of students with diverse learning styles. The resource teacher will
also work with teachers to implement a program incorporating study skills in
the classroom to benefit all students. Additional special education services
will be provided by specialists in accordance with a student's Individual
Education Plan (IEP).
Technology
Peak to Peak will implement
a comprehensive K-12 technology plan across the curriculum. All classroom teachers will be expected to become
proficient in the use of technology and will be evaluated on the effectiveness
of their integration of technology into their lesson plans. Peak
to Peak will work to establish relationships with the many technology companies
and technologists in
Overview
Peak to Peak will provide a
rigorous, college preparatory, academic program for high school students who
value challenge and the opportunity to work closely with a small group of
teachers in a collegial environment.
The academic program will be structured around a required sequence of courses
in mathematics, science, English, history, and foreign language. While there is
a specific course sequence in each subject area, students who successfully
complete a placement test may move ahead to the next highest course. The Peak
to Peak Board will establish prerequisites for advanced courses. AP and honors
courses are open to any Peak to Peak student who has completed the prerequisite
courses.
Arts and athletics courses will encourage
students to become lifelong participants in these endeavors, which are an
important part of a well-rounded life. Courses in health, government and logic
will give Peak to Peak students the knowledge and reasoning skills to make
healthy, responsible and informed decisions on personal and civic issues.
Peak to Peak's board will adopt curriculum
for each course offered and will establish a process for parents, students and
subscribers to review and comment on curriculum, textbooks and instructional
effectiveness.
High School Program and Graduation
Requirements
To earn a high school diploma, Peak to Peak
students will need to successfully complete 220 credits. Each year-long,
full-time course earns 10 credits. In addition to the course requirements
specified below, each student will take electives to round out the 220 unit
requirement. Peak to Peak will encourage high school students
to take advantage of opportunities to earn college credit through the widest
variety of AP courses offered in the
Mathematics
Three years of mathematics, selected from
Algebra I, Geometry (with formal proofs), Algebra II/Trigonometry
, AP Statistics, AP Computer Science, Advanced Mathematics, AP Calculus,
Formal Logic. Students are encouraged to take four full years of mathematics
as recommended for college admission to the
English
Four years of English, selected from: English
Composition and Rhetoric, World Literature, American Literature, Forensics
(Debate), Writers Workshop, AP Language and Composition, AP Literature, AP
British Literature. Each literature course will feature a selection of
traditional and modern classics, and a balance of critical reading, analysis,
writing and oral communication skills instruction and evaluation. English
Composition and Rhetoric is a writing and reasoning skills course that will
provide an intensive tutorial in the development of robust writing skills and
thoughtful public speaking skills.
History/Geography/Government/Economics
Three and one half years of history and
geography, selected from the following courses: World History and Geography:
Pre-history - 1650, World History and Geography: 1600 - 1985, American History,
AP American History, Geography, AP European History, American and International
Government, Economics. All students are required to take at least one year of
world history, one year of American History, and one semester of American and
International Government.
Science and Technology
Three years of laboratory science, selected
from: Chemistry and Physics (Chem/Physics), Biology
I, Chemistry I, Physics I, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, AP Computer
Science. Students may select two 5-credit courses from Statistics, Technology,
Programming, or Formal Logic in lieu of the third year of laboratory science. A
fourth year of science is required by many engineering schools and is strongly
recommended for students contemplating a college major in science, math or the
social sciences. (Students majoring in Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, or
Geography are often surprised at the level of science and mathematics course
work required at the college level.)
Foreign Language
Students must complete Level 4 in a single
foreign language or complete three years in a single foreign language.
Language offerings will include: Spanish 1, Spanish 2, Spanish 3, AP Spanish,
AP Spanish Literature, French 1, French 2, French 3, AP French Language, AP French Literature. All courses will include listening,
reading, writing and speaking skills. Other language offerings may be available
based on student interest. After-school clubs, lunch tables, and summer
intensives will be available for students who wish to further develop their
skills. The
Roots of English
Students must pass a 2.5-credit course in the
development of the English language, with a focus on vocabulary and roots drawn
from other languages.
Health
Students must complete a 2.5-credit course in
health.
Research and Information Technology
Students must complete a 5-credit course in
Research and Information Technology or pass a practical examination in the use
of technology and information resources. In addition to the practical elements
of how to use technology, the course will offer a specific focus on learning to
evaluate the quality and credibility of information resources and the student's
own work products.
Arts
Students must complete at least 20 credits in
their choice of arts courses. Performance and studio courses may be repeated
for credit. Courses may include: orchestra, band, choir, drama, art history and
various studio art classes. Peak to Peak will survey students and establish
arts classes that are specifically based on student interests.
Physical Education
Students must complete at least 10 credits of
physical education. Students who participate in extra-curricular or outside
sports may receive credit for 2.5 credits of physical education for each forty
hours of training and competition time supervised by a coach. If the sport is
not school-sponsored, it must be under the sanction of a recognized local,
state or national sports body (such as YMCA, Boulder F.C. Soccer, U.S.
Swimming, U.S. Figure Skating Association) in order for the student to gain
credit. Appropriate documentation must be completed by the student, family and
coach and approved by the Principal each time credit is requested. No more than
five units of P.E. credit may be earned in this manner in any school year. P.E.
is offered on a Pass/Fail basis.
Other Electives
Peak to Peak will survey
students to develop other electives that match student interest and demand.
Overview
The Peak to Peak middle school program
(grades 6, 7, 8) is modeled after
Students will select courses in the Peak to
Peak middle school program based on their interests, performance on placement
exams, and guidance from parents, teachers and counselors. Most courses in the
middle school program will have students from several grade levels. Students
are encouraged to test into higher levels of courses so that they can achieve
their goals for challenge and advancement.
Even for students whose preparation for
middle school may not have been ideal, Peak to Peak will give motivated and
hard-working students from any background the substantial and thorough
preparation they need to make the most of Peak to Peak's high school program.
College Counseling and Course Selection
-- The Middle School Connection
Decisions to attend -- or not attend--
college are often unknowingly made much earlier than students or parents
realize. While 91% of parents say that they want their children to go to
college, and 86% of middle school students also have a dream for college, very
few students or parents understand just how much preparation is required -- and
that the minimum requirements for a high school diploma too often fall far
short of the entrance requirements at major public universities. Student and
family decisions on math and English courses as early as middle school set the
stage for unexpected narrowing of options as the student later finishes high
school. Even today, seniors who are good students with good grades and an
otherwise strong background are often surprised to learn that they are
ineligible to attend the University of Colorado, Boulder, because they never
took a fourth year of qualifying English courses.
At Peak to Peak, all students in the middle
and high school programs will participate in comprehensive college planning and
counseling. Families will be involved through parent seminars and educational
programs on preparing -- academically, socially and financially -- for college.
Placement
Students select courses in the Peak to Peak
middle school program based on their interests, performance on placement exams
offered before school begins, and guidance from counselors, teachers and parents.
Most middle school classes at Peak to Peak will have students from several
grade levels. Students are encouraged to test into higher levels of courses so
that they can achieve their goals for challenge and advancement.
English
Peak to Peak will offer
four sequential English courses which emphasize close reading of high quality
works of literature and a focus on the development of robust writing skills. Each course incorporates a grammar and mechanics
scope-and-sequence for skill development and a vocabulary development sequence.
Like Summit, Peak to Peak intends, "to provide students with the powers of
analysis to make reading and writing about literature a meaningful experience,
as well as to create engaging experiences with literature that will foster
life-long reading pleasure," (1997-1998 Summit Middle School Annual
Report, p. 35).
Foreign Language
Becoming fluent in a foreign language and
learning about the cultures where the target language is spoken is a key goal
of Peak to Peak. Students who never take the opportunity to really learn
another language miss important opportunities to learn
about the differences and commonalties we all share. At Peak to Peak all
students will take a foreign language beginning in sixth grade. Peak to Peak will offer Beginning Spanish, Spanish I, and Spanish
II, and Beginning French, French I, and French II. Other languages may
be offered if there is adequate student demand. Courses will balance listening,
reading, speaking, writing and learning about the target culture.
It is the school's intention to allow
students to complete the equivalent of two year's of high school instruction in
three years of middle school foreign language. Students who complete this three
year sequence should be able to enter Level III in the corresponding high
school language program. After-school clubs, lunch tables, and summer
intensives will be available for students who wish to further develop their
skills. It is the school's ideal that the three years of foreign language in
the middle school program and the additional three years foreign language in
the high school program will allow students to become fluent and appreciative
of the literature, culture, and art of countries where that language is spoken.
Mathematics
Peak to Peak will offer at
least six different mathematics courses to students in the middle school
program. As recommended by the
U.S. Secretary of Education, all Peak to Peak middle school students will
complete a full course in Algebra by 8th grade, though many may take it in 6th
or 7th grade. Students will take a mathematics placement examination and then
be advised about appropriate courses to consider. Peak to Peak is strongly
committed to allowing students to progress as far as their abilities and
interest permit.
Courses will include: Pre-Algebra, Honors
Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, Honors Algebra I, Geometry
with formal proofs, Algebra II/Trigonometry. The algebra and geometry courses
will be designed to meet the same standards as BVSD high school courses to aid
articulation regardless of the high school program chosen by the student.
Students at all levels will be expected to master both calculation and concepts
before advancing to the next course.
Science
Peak to Peak will offer a
science curriculum that delves into three broad areas: Biological Sciences,
Physical Sciences and Earth Sciences.
Science instruction will feature exposition and development of theories and key
scientific principles through experimentation, reading, class workshops and
lecture. Interested students will be able to take Chemistry/Physics, the course
normally taught at the ninth grade in BVSD. All science courses will be taught
by teachers holding a college degree in a scientific or mathematical
discipline.
History and Social Sciences
Peak to Peak will offer a
three year sequence in history and geography that incorporates both world and
American history. It will be based
on the Core Knoweledge content sequence for history,
but will be modified to better cover selected topics that may be new to
students who have not come through a Core Knowledge elementary school program.
The 7th grade course will include the Constitution of the
Technology
Students must take a one semester course in
the use and application of technology or pass a practical examination to
demonstrate competence. Additional technology electives will be offered based
on student interest and demand.
Art
Art is an elective at the middle school
level, though students are required to take at least one semester of art during
their three years of middle school. Art courses will include both hands-on
studio courses and courses in Art History and Appreciation.
Music
Middle School music classes will include
orchestra, band, and choir as well as classes on music theory and appreciation.
Students will be required to take at least one semester of music.
Overview
Peak to Peak's elementary school program will
use the nationally recognized Core Knowledge Sequence as its basis for content,
except as noted below. Core Knowledge provides a rich, varied program that has
shown great success with students from a wide variety of backgrounds. It has
been well received by BVSD parents and has demonstrated a record of successful
student achievement both locally and nationally. When combined with the strong
skill-building programs Peak to Peak will adopt, the curriculum will meet or
exceed
Since learning to read well is the most
critical factor for future success in school, reading instruction will be a
prime focus of Peak to Peak. Peak to Peak will use a
structured reading skills curriculum that emphasizes phonics, phonemic
awareness and extensive practice with appropriate books. Given the many
levels of preparation characteristic of entering kindergartners and first
graders, Peak to Peak will cluster students by performance as a regular part of
reading instruction in the primary grades.
As part of the process of improving communication
with parents, Peak to Peak will share each child's literacy pre-test and
year-end data with parents so that they are kept fully informed of their
child's progress in this very important area. Additionally, parent workshops
will be organized to give families ideas and practice with techniques they can
use at home.
Literature selections for each grade will be
based on the Core Knowledge Sequence, along with other modern and classical
literature, drama, poetry and speeches. Given the depth and breadth of Core
Knowledge content in history, geography, science and the arts, there are many
opportunities to integrate reading instruction across the curriculum. The Great
Books methodology for guided inquiry and discussion of literature and other
texts will be used beginning in second grade to help students develop critical
reading and comprehension skills.
Writing
Peak to Peak will emphasize
the development of clear and articulate writing by students in all grades as
outlined in the Core Knowledge Sequence. Beginning in kindergarten, and continuing throughout elementary and
middle school, students will write stories, poems, reports and plays. To build
skills, all students will be assessed on a common writing continuum and taught
writing skills using the Six-Trait Analytical Writing Assessment Model
from the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory (NREL) or similar
assessment. Students will use technology throughout the elementary and middle
school years to support the writing, editing and publication process.
Spelling and Vocabulary Development
Formal spelling instruction and vocabulary
development will begin in first grade. Spelling and vocabulary words and
concepts will be drawn both from traditional texts and from the content areas
being studied. Students will be encouraged to use accurate spelling in all
writing and teachers will identify spelling errors for student correction even
if the writing was not for an English assignment. Dictionary, thesaurus and
vocabulary development skills will be explicitly taught beginning in first
grade and continuing throughout elementary school.
Mathematics
The Peak to Peak elementary program will use
the detailed
Beginning in first grade, Peak to Peak will
facilitate movement of students from grade to grade in math to allow students
to work at a appropriate level of challenge.
Additionally, each elementary classroom will have challenge boxes available to
students who want to extend and enrich their mathematical understanding. Fifth
grade students who pass a summer pre-test will be encouraged to enroll in
middle school math at the appropriate level.
History
Peak to Peak will use the
Core Knowledge Sequence as the basis for the curriculum in World and American
History. The Core Knowledge
Sequence in history has been nationally acclaimed for its breadth, depth and
coherence. The wide variety of source materials, histories, historical fiction,
art, architecture, poetry, drama and speeches provide a wonderful opportunity
for student learning and achievement.
History - Statutory Requirements
The Peak to Peak curriculum will comply with
all provisions of C.R.S. 22-1-104(2). Peak to Peak will also teach Colorado
History in third grade, consistent with C.R.S. 22-1-1-4(1)
Geography
Peak to Peak will use the
Core Knowledge Sequence content along with the
Science
Peak to Peak will use the
Core Knowledge Science Sequence as a basis for elementary science content. In the elementary school program, much of the science
is hands-on. To further enrich and deepen student science understanding, Peak
to Peak will make ample use of the many scientific resources in
Art
Art is an integral part of the school
experience. Students will have ample opportunity to make art, learn about art,
and view art at every grade level. Some of the art appreciation and
understanding will be tied to the Core Knowledge content for that grade level.
Formal art classes will begin in first grade, though kindergartners will have
daily opportunities for informal art experiences.
Music
Music is an important facet of a good
elementary education. Like art, music is sometimes learned for its own sake,
and sometimes in relationship to other subjects studied. Instrumental music
learned at an early age has been shown to be a key factor in brain development.
Peak to Peak will encourage all students to become proficient in playing at
least one musical instrument.
Foreign Language:
Peak to Peak will encourage
all students to become proficient in at least one foreign language. At the elementary level, it will strive to offer a
foreign language if budgetary constraints allow. In the event
funding will not permit such instruction, Peak to Peak will facilitate
before-school or after-school foreign language classes for all interested
students and language lunch tables for the higher grades.
Peak to Peak is strongly
committed to excellence and fairness. The school will not discriminate on the
basis of race, creed, color, ethnicity, national origin, or eligibility for
services for exceptional children. There are no entrance exams and Peak to Peak
does not review any academic records prior to admissions. The only requirements
for admission to Peak to Peak are that:
students and families desire the rigorous and academically
challenging program;
students are committed to the hard work necessary to achieve
success;
students and families read and agree to actively support the
school's goals and objectives; and
students and parents subscribe to the ideals of the school
Preparing kindergarten
through twelfth-grade students with the knowledge and skills necessary to
flourish in an increasingly complex and technological world becomes more
challenging every day. High school graduates with deficient critical thinking
preparation, inadequate knowledge base, and inexperience in analyzing problems
are not prepared to succeed in the nation's top universities. Peak to Peak is
committed to providing equity in educational access and opportunity to all
academically-oriented students with a desire for a
rigorous and rewarding liberal arts, college preparatory, public education. We
believe in the capacity of all motivated students to succeed, and will help
families to create thinking, responsible citizens for our nation's future. To
that end, Peak to Peak will establish an inclusive learning environment where
students from all ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds are welcomed, respected
and academically challenged.
Peak to Peak will use a
multi-faceted strategy to reach the larger
In addition to the public
awareness efforts, presentations will be made by Peak to Peak representatives
at as many schools as possible. The message to students will be threefold: (1)
each individual is valued and can succeed; (2) the school's well-trained
faculty will help each student learn the set of study skills (time management,
organization, and planning) needed to maximize his or her learning
opportunities; and (3) the school will provide an environment which is safe and
respectful, values individual differences, scholarship, academic achievement and
creativity.
Peak to Peak will seek to establish working
relationships with the Family Learning Center, Girls Count, the American
Association of University Women's Expanding Your
Horizons program, and the C.U. Minority
Engineering Program and other outreach organizations. All of these groups have
track records of success in encouraging minority students to pursue challenging
academic programs, and in providing on-going support for the students. Underachieving students who are minorities, economically disadvantaged,
physically disabled, or gifted stand to gain the most from a college
preparatory program with high expectations.
Students bound for Peak to
Peak's high school program will be offered the opportunity to enroll in a
summer Jump Start program. This program will ensure that students are well
prepared to enter a college-preparatory high school even with some prior
educational deficits. Jump Start students will have coaching and practice
devoted to the development of reading, writing, math and study skills needed
for success in the program. This will help ensure the success of the students
in a demanding, college preparatory educational environment. It will also
provide an opportunity for students to get to know a few faculty members as
mentors and resources even before the school year begins, and build camaraderie
and comfort in the transition from middle school to high school.
Peak to Peak recognizes that
acquisition of efficient work and study habits is a significant contributor to
students' sense of comfort and their eagerness to take on new challenges. Peak
to Peak will offer study skills classes and will include development of
appropriate study and research skills as a goal for each discipline. Students
will be taught how to organize, plan and track their work so that they can meet
their goals. A regularly scheduled after-school tutoring program will be
implemented to provide students with extra support. Mid-quarter progress
reports will be mailed to parents of any student who is experiencing difficulty
in any core course so that the family can become involved in working with the
student and the school to resolve the problems.
As mentioned earlier,
decisions to attend -- or not attend-- college are often unknowingly made much
earlier than students or parents realize. While 91% of parents say that they
want their children to go to college, and 86% students surveyed also have a
dream for college very few students or parents understand just how much
preparation is required -- and that the minimum requirements for a typical high
school diploma often fall far short of the entrance requirements at major
public universities.
Student and family decisions on math and
English courses as early as middle school set the stage for unexpected
narrowing of the options as the student later finishes high school. Even today,
seniors who are good students with good grades are often surprised to find out
that they are ineligible to attend C.U. because they never took a fourth year
of qualifying English courses.
All students in the Peak to Peak middle and
high school programs will participate in comprehensive college planning and
academic counseling. Families will be involved through parent seminars and
educational programs on preparing -- academically, socially and financially --
for a college education.
Peak to Peak will use a
variety of formal and informal measures to gauge performance and evaluate
instructional and program effectiveness.
The daily, weekly and monthly
school work that students bring home provides some of the best informal
assessment of pupil performance for students and parents. The regular homework
assignments that begin daily in first grade and continue throughout high school
provide many opportunities for students to demonstrate good work habits,
mastery and improvement over time.
Teachers will define and
administer periodic tests to evaluate pupil performance in specific subjects on
a regular basis. Projects and reports provide additional opportunities for
students to demonstrate performance.
Peak to Peak students will take springtime
BVSD norm-referenced tests and State Standards (CSAP) tests on a schedule
established by the District or the State. Additionally, the Board may establish
such other testing measures as it deems helpful for assessment of student
achievement and instructional effectiveness. Peak to Peak is strongly committed
to using data to continuously improve and enhance instruction and to provide
parents with concrete evidence of student accomplishment.
Peak to Peak has designed an
integrated K-12 program that builds from year to year. Nonetheless, the school
organizers want to ensure that there is reasonable opportunity for students to
join the Peak to Peak community at higher grade levels even if they did not
start in Peak to Peak's elementary school program. The capacities of the
elementary, middle and high school components of the program have been
carefully selected to allow in significant numbers of new students at each
level of schooling. While 25-50 students per year may complete the 5th grade
program, the middle school has capacity for approximately 75-100 students in
6th grade. Similarly, while approximately 75-100 students per year will
complete Peak to Peak's 8th grade, the high school program can accommodate
approximately 100-150 students in 9th grade.
Peak to Peak
will open in the fall of 1999 for 200-225 students split between 9th and 10th
grades. In the
subsequent two years, Peak to Peak will expand to serve 11th and 12th grade
students. Expected total enrollment for the high school program is
expected to be between 400 and 600 students, depending on space limitations.
The elementary program is planned to begin
with an enrollment of 125-175 students in the fall of 2000. Ultimately, the
elementary program will grow to accommodate two rounds, or approximately 300
students, as space allows.
The middle school program is planned to begin
for 6th, 7th and 8th grade in the fall of 2001 with an enrollment of between
200 and 250 students. Peak to Peak will eventually serve up
to 350 students, as space allows.
Peak to Peak has carefully explored these
alternatives and proposes to share space with existing programs within BVSD.
Such arrangements have already proven successful in BVSD.
This arrangement is not unique to
During the past two years,
the BVSD Board and administration have undertaken a sequence of detailed
facilities reviews and space analyses of all the district's school buildings.
The BVSD's Facility Master Plan determined maximum
building and program capacities under various class size and efficiency models.
Generally, the maximum capacity is consistent with the peak enrollment
historically accommodated at the school.
While the capacity figures have been revised
on several occasions since the first capacity report was issued nearly two
years ago, all of the District's analyses show that many schools have
substantial excess capacity. The "Fact Sheet, Boulder Valley School
District, 1997-1998 PreK-12 Enrollment by Community" provided by Don Orr
of the District's Planning Office shows the maximum capacity and CDE Enrollment
(
The table entitled, "1997-1998 Pre K-12
Enrollment by Community" shows the persistence of the space availability
through the end of the forecast (2002). Compared to the student populations
supported in these schools at their peak enrollments in years past, many are
operating at half or less of their maximum (and historical) capacity. School
Board president Linda Shoemaker acknowledged this in her letter to the
community this past April, saying, "Many Boulder facilities are only half
or three-quarters full" (Bulletin Board v.2 #13, April 8, 1998, News from
the Boulder Valley School District), shown here in Appendix F.
At the high school level, the District
recently addressed overcrowding with the new
Due to the operations expense of opening and
running Monarch and the high cost of operating so many under-utilized and small
facilities, BVSD initially considered closing several middle and elementary
The district is considering a plan to ask
taxpayer approval for bonds to build new facilities in the eastern part of the
district and a tax override to provide the additional money needed to operate
the many small and under-enrolled schools in
Although the facility costs
of each school site are reasonably fixed, at an under-enrolled school these
costs are spread over a much smaller number of students, resulting in higher
per capita overhead costs. Peak to Peak is willing to be sited in either a
currently under-utilized facility or in any space which may become available
within the
Siting Peak to Peak programs in BVSD facilities will bring
financial benefit to BVSD, since charter schools operating in BVSD space forego
nearly $900 per pupil in funding (15% of per pupil operating revenues
(PPOR) and 100% of the insurance and capital reserve allocations) as
reimbursement for operating expenses, maintenance, and utilities. Given that
academically challenging charter and focus schools within BVSD have
traditionally attracted many students from home schooling and private schools,
there is also the benefit of bringing in more students to fill what is now
expensive yet under-used capacity.
If Peak to Peak were to build its own space,
the $900 in per pupil operating revenue, insurance and capital reserve funding
which would otherwise be returned to BVSD will instead be paid to banks and
real estate lenders. At Peak to Peak's full capacity, this would amount to over
$1.1 million per year.
By locating Peak to Peak programs in
under-utilized school facilities, BVSD would ease the financial problems facing
the district, allow the District to more easily meet the desires of
neighborhood families to keep small neighborhood schools open, and meet the
desires of all of the families who want the unique K-12 college preparatory
program offered by Peak to Peak.
Parents in
In a survey of
Core Knowledge
Core Knowledge is a sequential, content-rich
elementary and middle school program. It was arrived at through a process of
national meetings and expert review. Core Knowledge was selected for Peak to
Peak's elementary school program for its ability to provide challenging and
important content in the earliest grades to set the stage for a strong college
preparatory middle and high school curriculum. Core Knowledge has been very
popular with parents in
Many national educational leaders and
organizations, such as the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), strongly
endorse Core Knowledge as an effective and fair educational program beneficial
to students from diverse backgrounds. Though nearly half the charter schools
within the State of
Availability of Advanced Placement and
International Baccalaureate Courses
The District has several fine, comprehensive
high schools which offer college preparatory courses, including both the
International Baccalaureate program and various Advanced Placement courses. The
explosive growth of the International Baccalaureate program and the increasing
registration in demanding college preparatory courses indicate the need for
more academically oriented high school options. Due to over-enrollment this
year, students who lived outside
Private School Enrollments
Private schools are a growth industry in
Many academically-oriented private schools in
If the District is to halt or reverse the
movement of students whose families seek challenging academic programs from
public to private schools, the District will need to provide more programs that
address what these families and students have chosen.
Conclusion
While progress has been made in meeting the
expressed wishes of
Peak to Peak is committed to
the principle that there be equitable access to its
program, and recognizes that access to transportation will help achieve this
equity. Since students will enroll from throughout the district, a variety of
solutions will be required. A letter will be sent to each student in the summer
with information on transportation options. Transportation planning will be an
ongoing process to provide information, updates, and assessment.
Peak to Peak will request
that it be located within underutilized BVSD facilities which are served by
public transportation.
Bus schedule and route
information will be readily available on site and will be summarized on the
Peak to Peak Web site and in literature for prospective students. The school
will encourage all high school students and interested middle school students
to use public transportation. An RTD monthly pass or tokens will be provided
upon request to any Peak to Peak middle or high school student who is eligible
for the Federal free and reduced lunch program. Peak to Peak
will work with RTD to qualify its high school students for an Eco-Pass-like
program.
To maximize enrollment
opportunities for students whose families may not have the ability to provide
daily transportation, and to minimize traffic impact in residential areas, Peak
to Peak will arrange transportation for its elementary and middle school
students to and from several major collection points around the District.
Collection points will be determined by student interest and demand. This
transportation will be provided free of charge to any Peak to Peak student
eligible for the Federal free and reduced price lunch program and Peak to Peak
will absorb the transportation costs for these students in the school's
operating budget. If RTD service to the campus is inadequate, Peak to Peak may
also choose to offer this service to high school students.
Peak to Peak expects to receive a pro-rata
share of the state subsidies for school busing costs. Students who are
ineligible for the Federal free and reduced price lunch program may be charged
a fee to defray transportation costs in excess of state subsidies. Peak to Peak
will request waivers of State statutes C.R.S. 22-32-113(5)(a)
and C.R.S. 22-45-103, and of BVSD Policies EEA (Student Transportation), EEAA
(Walkers and Riders). Peak to Peak may be unable to provide transportation
services in the absence of these waivers.
The fees and costs in this proposal are based
on current BVSD charges to charter schools for transportation services of
approximately $15/hour plus $0.50 per mile.
Peak to Peak will facilitate
the organization of carpools to and from bus collection points and directly to
and from school. Carpools have been very successful in reducing the number of
vehicle trips to and from focus and charter schools. Once parents sign a
release, Peak to Peak will provide a list of students and addresses to the Denver
Regional Council of Government (DRCOG) Ride Arranger Program. DRCOG provides a
free regional service by providing lists and maps for subscribers in a given
geographic area.
In addition, families will be
encouraged to utilize the following alternative transportation modes when
appropriate:
Walking and Biking: Students living within a reasonable distance of the
school will be encouraged to walk or ride their bikes. High School students
will be discouraged from driving cars to school.
DRCOG Regional Van Pool Program: DRCOG takes van requests or organizes groups of
approximately 10 commuters and provides vans to the groups. Fees vary depending
on the number of commuters in the van and distance traveled.
BVSD "Petition to Ride" Program: BVSD policy allows students to petition for the use
of available seats on current school bus routes. If Peak to Peak's schedule
matches that of the neighborhood school into which it is sited, some students
may be able to use the existing BVSD school bus system.
If neighborhood traffic
conditions warrant, Peak to Peak could operate on a daily schedule which is
offset from that of the neighborhood school. For example, if the neighborhood
school starts at
Peak to Peak plans to
directly provide in-school instructional and administrative services. However,
Peak to Peak desires and expects to purchase many centralized support services
from BVSD, since these are often provided more efficiently on a large scale. As
part of its annual budget process, Peak to Peak will review the services offered
by BVSD and select those to be purchased for the upcoming school year.
The services which Peak-to-Peak wishes to
consider purchasing include:
Benefits Administration
Business Services
Computer Services (MIS)
Human Resource Services
Instructional Media Services
Payroll Services
Purchasing Services
Special Education
Transportation - Daily
Transportation - Occasional
If Peak to Peak is located in
a BVSD facility and foregoes insurance reserve/capital reserve funding, then
the services provided through these funds will be provided directly to Peak to
Peak by BVSD in exchange for that funding.
Appendix H is a budget
showing how Peak to Peak will manage expenses during its first full year of
operation. The first year enrollment of 200 is large enough to be
viable; many
Peak to Peak obtained the operating budgets
for several operational charter schools in
At maximum size (depending on site
constraints) Peak to Peak will serve approximately 1250 students by 2004, or
approximately 5% of BVSD's total enrollment.
Peak to Peaks' growth will
take place over several years and will be masked by the district's overall
growth rate which has been averaging 2% per year. Finally, Peak to Peak expects
to draw many families back into the public schools. Because of the "J"curve by which School Finance Act funds are
disbursed, each student who is attracted to Peak-to-Peak from home school or
private school returns an extra $375 to the district at large.
Peak to Peak does not
anticipate displacing any current students in order to accommodate its
programs. There currently are numerous District schools that are not utilized
to full capacity, and Peak to Peak anticipates that its programs can be
accommodated within District facilities. As a school of choice, Peak to Peak
would help relieve overcrowding in Boulder-area high schools and in the
significantly overcrowded east county schools. To the degree that Boulder-area
high school students select Peak to Peak, it may make it possible for students
from east county to enroll in Boulder-area high
schools which are currently closed to open enrollment due to overcrowding.
Current BVSD staff members who support Peak
to Peak's mission, goals and objectives, and ideals are encouraged to apply for
positions at Peak to Peak. They will be given full and fair consideration for
any position for which they may be qualified.
Rules of Governance
I. Membership
1.1 The parents or legal guardians of a child
enrolled in Peak to Peak, the Peak to Peak faculty, staff, administration and
subscribers to the proposal of the school shall constitute the membership of
Peak to Peak Charter Schools, Inc. Each family unit will have one vote per
child enrolled or on the subscription roster.
1.2 The role of a member shall include:
a. attending general meetings;
b. staying informed on school issues by reading the
school's newsletters and communications;
c. electing the members of the Board of Directors;
d. communicating opinions to the Board of Directors;
and
e. serving/participating in volunteer roles whenever
possible.
II. Membership Meetings
2.1 There shall be at least one general
membership meeting of Peak to Peak each year.
2.2 A general meeting shall be held in the
spring of each year and shall be known as the Annual Meeting for the purpose of
receiving a report from the Board of Directors and committees and other
information exchange. Public notification shall be given at least seven days
prior to the meeting.
2.3 Special meetings, such as a Board of
Directors' candidates forum, may be called by the
Board of Directors. The purpose of the meeting shall be stated and at least
seven days public notice shall be given.
2.4 Except as provided in Amendments (section
VIII) of these Rules of Governance, general membership meetings are primarily
informational; business matters requiring a vote are the domain of the Board of
Directors' meetings.
2.5 Meetings shall be held at the school or a
location specified by the Board of Directors.
2.6 Minutes of such meetings shall be kept by
the Secretary.
III. Board of Directors
3.1 The Board of Directors shall govern the
affairs of Peak to Peak Charter Schools, Inc. and shall be responsible for
governing the school according to these Rules of Governance.
3.2 The Board of Directors shall consist of
the following:
a. Voting Members
1. The Board of Directors shall consist of
seven voting members.