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VOLUME 36, ISSUE TWO • WINTER BREAK 2010
ARROWPOINT A publication of Broken Arrow Public Schools VOLUME 36, ISSUE 2 WINTER BREAK 2010 Publisher Communications Department BA Public Schools Layout/Design/Photography Adam J. Foreman Webmaster/Publications Specialist Editing/Content Amy Fichtner Assistant Superintendent Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jarod Mendenhall Board of Education Sharon Whelpley, President Shari Wilkins, Vice President Cheryl Kelly, Clerk Steve Allen, Deputy Clerk Jerry Denton, Member The ARROWPOINT is published by the Communications Department of Broken Arrow Public Schools and is distributed to approximately 40,000 households in the Broken Arrow school district. The ARROWPOINT is printed at Western Printing Company, Inc., and is the official communication tool for parents, students, staff and patrons of BA Schools. Any information, content and photos contained herein are property of Broken Arrow Schools and are to be used by outside sources only with permission of the Communications Department. All contents are copyrighted. Notice of Non-Discrimination: Broken Arrow Public Schools (BAPS) does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities. The following people at BAPS have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: The Executive Director of Human Resources should be contacted for all non-student and/or employment related issues at 918-259-5700 or at 701 South Main Street, Broken Arrow, OK 74012. The Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services should be contacted for all student issues except those related to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 at 918-259-5700 or at 701 South Main Street, Broken Arrow, OK 74012. The Director of Special Education should be contacted for all student issues related to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 at 918-259-5700 or at 701 South Main Street, Broken Arrow, OK 74012. Inquiries concerning nondiscrimination can also be made to the United States Department of Education’s Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights.
Broken Arrow Public Schools Education Service Center 701 South Main Street Broken Arrow, OK 74012 (918) 259-5700 | F: (918) 258-0399 www.baschools.org
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CONTENTS Letter from the Superintendent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page Three 2009 School Bond Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page Three 100 Day Entry Plan Findings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pages Four and Five 2010-11 Teachers of the Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page Six Gift of Giving: BAPS Gives Back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page Seven Pride of Broken Arrow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page Eight Quick News and Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page Eight
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It was a morning filled with fun and fitness as students at Leisure Park Elementary participated in their annual Pumpkin Run in October. Here, students in the Four-Year-Old program show they’ve got what it takes to win the race. All students will be enjoying winter break starting Dec. 20 and will return to classes on Jan. 3, 2011. For up-to-date information about BA Schools, the calendar or inclement weather information, visit www.baschools.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
from the desk of...
the Superintendent
As you read this edition of the Arrowpoint, I hope you are enjoying the holidays. This is the time of year to relax and enjoy family and friends. I am happy to report that it has been an exceptional year for Broken Arrow Public Schools. Also, I want to personally thank you, the community, for your hospitality and willingness to share the traditions of Broken Arrow with me. It already feels like home! I just recently completed my 100 day entry plan and presented the findings to the Board of Education. One of the findings was this community’s incredible commitment to students. I had the opportunity to speak to many stakeholders including city leaders, chamber members, civic clubs, parents, teachers, students and others who are passionate about Broken Arrow. During these meetings, it was clear to me that the expectations for the school district are climbing to new heights which will require a changed culture focused on children. These expectations and strong commitment will be beneficial as we move into the next phase of a changing culture. In this phase, a new strategic plan will be developed. This process will begin in January and will involve members of the community, as well as parents, teachers and students. This strategic plan will chart the course for the future of Broken Arrow Public Schools. Another exciting endeavor will be the start of the 2009 bond projects. The architects have been hired for the first phase and will now begin coordinating efforts with the site teachers and administrators. I would expect to see construction soon! Other changes in the district include North Intermediate High School. Many of you know that Mr. Steve Nida has decided to retire as the principal at North. He has served as an educator for 41 years and we wish him all the best in retirement. Dr. Barbara Evans, a long-time administrator in Broken Arrow, graciously agreed to come out of retirement to serve as North’s interim principal through the end of the school year We will develop a site committee to interview interested candidates for the North principal position in the spring. I am very pleased to announce the hiring of Ms. Tara Thompson as our Public Information Officer beginning in January. She has served as the Director of Communications at Jenks Public Schools for the past five years therefore bringing valuable experience to the district. Our website will be undergoing a major change under her direction as well as other exciting changes in the communications department. I am looking forward to working with Ms. Thompson. Speaking of change, after 20 years of Sandy Garrett serving as our state superintendent, there is new leadership at the state level. Dr. Janet Baressi will be serving as our new state superintendent. It is too early to predict the changes that will be made by Dr. Baressi or the state department, but I will try to keep the community informed. The state budget picture has not really changed from last year, but I am hopeful that the economy will turn around soon. This legislative session will be important to all school district budgets; therefore, I will be encouraging our legislators to lift any unfunded mandates to help with our budget picture. I would be remiss if I did not mention the incredible accomplishments of our students. We had six students honored as National Merit Semi-Finalists and the “Pride” won the state championship for the ninth time in a row. The band also went on to Grand Nationals where they were named National Runners-up. Many of our student groups have conducted community service projects which speaks volumes of their character. These are just a few accomplishments and activities that make me proud to be a Tiger! Again, I hope you have a wonderful holiday. I am looking forward to the second half of this school year. The future is bright in Broken Arrow and I look forward to our continued success. Sincerely, Dr. Jarod Mendenhall Superintendent of Schools
2009 BOND UPDATE TECHNOLOGY: • Purchase of 260 Smartboards installed and in use. • 284 Light Speed classroom audio systems. • Purchase of 920 Computers for labs & Smartboard recipients • District wide centralized data storage and disaster recovery site powered by NetAPP. 30 Terabytes (30,000 GB) of data storage. • Complete 5 version upgrade of district student management system, Chancery, including new hardware, software, new parent portal, new teacher gradebook and grade book access from home for teachers via internet. • New Data Warehouse for district wide reports and access to district and state data, powered by Mizuni. • $400,000 in renewals for district wide subscriptions, maintenance and licenses to maintain and support software for school sites. • Hardware/Software for E2020 virtual school for district startup of a virtual K-12 environment. Proposed Phase I CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS: Package 1A – Crafton Tull Architects • Liberty Elementary Package 1B – PSA Dewberry Architects • Arrowhead Elementary • Leisure Park Elementary • Lynn Wood Elementary • Oak Crest Elementary • Rhoades Elementary • Spring Creek Elementary • Vandever Elementary Package 1C – GH2 Architects • New Elementary Package 1D – PBK Architects • Athletic Facility Upgrades • ECDC (Early Childhood Development Center) • Senior High • Westwood Elementary Package 1E – Selser Schaefer Architects / Perkins + Will Architects • South Intermediate
Over the past 100 days, I have spoken with hundreds of stakeholders, including parents, teachers and students as well as community leaders about the state of Broken Arrow Public Schools. I have visited every school site to listen and learn the needs of the school district. These are some of the findings and observations about our school district:
100 DAYS Superintendent observes findings after first 100 days on the job
By Dr. Jarod Mendenhall Superintendent of Schools
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY STATEMENT Broken Arrow Public Schools has had a proud tradition of excellence since 1904. The Broken Arrow community has demanded an educational institution that is academically focused and enriched by the fine arts and extra-curricular activities. • We have great students, parents and staff that want the best for all kids. • We have a committed and talented staff at Broken Arrow Public Schools. • We care about our students and their learning at Broken Arrow Public Schools. • Our parents and community are deeply committed to the education of their children. • We have innovative people that are ready for change. • We have the potential and capacity to achieve more in the district. • We have a Board of Education that cares about kids. • The community and staff want a Superintendent and Board that work together as one team. • The school district and community are ready for leadership. • The community and staff are ready for the 2009 Bond projects to begin.
LEADERSHIP Exemplary school districts require effective leaders at all levels in the organization. The Board and superintendent set the tone; the principals are to be the instructional leaders and the teachers are to be role models. I also expect bus drivers, cafeteria workers and custodians to provide leadership. Therefore, hiring the right people in each area of the organization is imperative to the development of a healthy
environment. Everyone should be committed to improvement and have a passion for kids to be successful.
BOARD/SUPERINTENDENT RELATIONS TRUST: The first step in building a positive relationship between the superintendent and the Board is to develop trust which occurs over time through conscientious, ongoing communication. Relationshipbuilding opportunities must be embraced by everyone so close bonds may be created. EXPECTATIONS: All of us must have a common understanding of our roles as Board members and superintendent. The superintendent should be held accountable through mutually agreed upon goals, which will focus and guide the school district. COMMUNICATION: On-going communication with the Board must be a priority. We should also understand that while we do not have to agree on all issues, we need to listen to all perspectives and respect those views for the future of the school district. TRANSPARENCY: Transparency is the cornerstone of any successful organization, providing the appropriate information so that critical decisions can be made.
PUBLIC RELATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS A public relations plan is imperative to successfully building support for the school district from its various internal and external groups. There needs to be an understanding from the Board to the superintendent of the image desired for the school district. TRAINING FOR BOARD AND SUPERINTENDENT: There must be public relations training provided to the Board and superintendent so that a consistent message is developed. A consensus can be built through a coherent, united message. CELEBRATING SUCCESSES AND DISCLOSE CHALLENGES: In order to build confidence, we must inform our internal and external publics about our innovations,
successes and important news. This transparency will provide a culture of honesty and pay long-term dividends. IMPROVING STAFF MORALE: All employees of the school district have an opinion and over time develop a distinct perspective. The Board and superintendent must be committed to visiting school sites so input can be heard. WORKINGWITHCOMMUNITY: Understanding the community attitudes and opinions of the school district will be crucial to the overall success of a public relations plan. The community stakeholders will communicate the areas of weakness and make recommendations for improvement.
CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION Curriculum should be results oriented with multiple types of ongoing assessments that measure success of both students and teachers. In the age of accountability, the focus of school improvement must be based on continuous student progress through vertical and horizontal curriculum alignment. In this process, teachers should have input into local standards making sure they align with state and national norms. This process is not effective without proper professional development and training that reinforces instructional strategies.
INFRASTRUCTURE AND BOND PROJECTS The physical structures within a school district should appropriately support the learning process. The success of students and the academic
achievement can be greatly enhanced if the learning environment is clean, attractive and well maintained. Beautiful facilities that are functional should be a priority for a school district. An example of this outstanding support is the recent passage of a $295 million bond issue in December of 2009. This bond issue will help support the facility needs for the next 10 years. The fiduciary responsibility of a bond issue this large is the responsibility of the superintendent and his staff. I am committed to ensure these funds are spent correctly and on the projects that were promised to the taxpayers and voters of this initiative. The planning and stakeholder input process should not be overlooked in developing buildings that are for the teaching and learning. The “end user,” who is considered the teachers and the principals at each school site, should have input into the design and functionality.
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
and procedures in place to protect with many positive assets, the most the organization from fraud and/or valuable of which is our many talented waste. and committed people. I believe our challenge is to move beyond a relatively strong organization to one CHANGED VISION which is truly outstanding. As our I am committed to the following: motto states, “where excellence is a tradition” can be a detriment to our PROVIDING THE VISION: A district improving if we choose to well-articulated vision will provide rest on our laurels. The 100-day entry plan was a the foundation for the school district and will provide continuity to every document meant to provide current findings of the school district and program or new idea developed. provide action steps that are critical to BUILDING THE RIGHT the improvement of the organization. CULTURE: Building a culture of As we move forward, the next mutual respect gives people the phase in the planning process will room to dream without fear which be to begin developing a strategic engenders great innovation. Internal plan which will include specific stakeholders must feel comfortable objectives, strategies, timelines and to stretch beyond their limits to reach metrics that reflect and support our vision for Broken Arrow Public excellence. Schools. I am hopeful that our community HIRING THE RIGHT PEOPLE: of stakeholders will step up to “Human capital” is one of the most under-rated resources required for a be involved in this process. This successful organization. Selecting executive summary will be an site principals is one of the most important tool to the strategic important decisions made in a school planning process which will provide district, because they are on the front us a roadmap for our students now lines providing leadership, making and in the future. Achieving the kind decisions, and developing the site’s of excellence that is expected will force us to dream beyond our wildest culture. dreams and reach beyond the biggest obstacles, to ensure a brighter future CONCLUSION for all children in Broken Arrow.
The financial practices and business services of a school district is the foundation of a great organization. Ensuring that the proper checks and balances are in place and internal controls are provided affords a school district the Broken Arrow Public Schools is security of operating properly. Many fundamentally a sound school district school districts forget to focus on the basics of school finance which can be harmful to the organization. This is the responsibility of the superintendent and the business office to ensure there are policies
Mark Cook BA Academy
Scott Stinnett Senior High School
Kylla Leeburg North Intermediate
The 2010-2011 Site Teachers of the Year will be recognized at Broken Arrow Public Schools’ inaugural “Gala for Excellence” this spring. The accomplishments of these 25 outstanding educators will be celebrated and will be honored for the positive impact they have had on students. The event’s culminating activity will be the announcement of the District Teacher of the Year.
Pam Chapman South Intermediate
Sydney Baker Margaret Hudson
Jill Little Centennial
Justin Rosser Childers
Vonna Stout Haskell
Leslie Cadenhead Oliver
Ronda Tipton Sequoyah
Dawn Hackney Arrow Springs
Michelle McCarver Arrowhead
Judy Gifford Country Lane
Daniel Dietz 4th & 5th Grade Ctr.
Wanda Phillips Indian Springs
Valerie Chenoweth Leisure Park
Teresa York Liberty
Tonya Hicks Lynn Wood
Karen Lyons Oak Crest
Bridget Powell Park Lane
Rachel Swekosky Rhoades
Lisa Wheeler Spring Creek
Kim Perez Vandever
Peggy Vock Westwood
Jolie Cologgi Wolf Creek
Gift of Giving
BAPS gives back to the community with volunteering, service projects With the holiday season approaching, the idea of giving selflessly permeates the community and staff of Broken Arrow Public Schools. They have shown they can step up to the plate with a variety of volunteer opportunities. A flurry of activity has surrounded local charities, including Broken Arrow Neighbors, Blue Star Mothers, Treetops Apartments, the Salvation Army and United Way. Various staff members across the district have contributed to these worthy causes over the past few months. The United Way campaign has been a part of BAPS for many years, and chair Debbie Sledge has spent the past two years researching the 61 agencies United Way supports and how the money is spent. “After realizing the scope of services and the individuals who benefit from these agencies, I knew United Way was a group I could wholeheartedly support,” said Sledge. “When I think about the fact that more than 726,000 area citizens were served last year and more in need this year, I am humbled.” This year, the BAPS United Way campaign raised $67,023.63, up from $64,346.54 the year before. Also, Key Club membership, which denotes $500 or more in giving, went from no members to 16 across the district. Unique activities at some of the
school sites were one way of raising United Way funds. For example, Country Lane Elementary and the 4th and 5th Grade Center held a contest to see who could raise the most money. The 4th & 5th Grade Center won by $50. Liberty Elementary hosted a pizza luncheon, basket auction, a dessert auction and auctioned off parking spaces and days off, and in the process raised more money than last year. One agency that benefits from the United Way is Broken Arrow Neighbors, an interfaith organization annually providing basic needs emergency assistance to more than 4,000 financially disadvantaged people in the Broken Arrow and Coweta areas. One of the recipients of BAN is Treetops Apartments. “Treetops is a community that BAN reaches out to,” said Kim Goddard, executive director of BAN. “There are 120 one-bedroom apartments and the complex is restricted to seniors and/or challenged individuals.” During a recent administrative retreat, many BAPS administrators volunteered their time at Treetops, doing everything from sweeping floors, moving furniture, cleaning outside entrances and other chores. “It is amazing to be part of a district that sees the value in giving back to our community,” said Jamie Milligan, principal at Country Lane. “I was excited to be able to contribute
(TOP) Members of the Broken Arrow High School baseball team visit with a patient at the Claremore Veterans Center, where the team delivered stockings full of gifts. (BOTTOM) Members of the BAPS administration team prepare gift boxes for deployed military personnel at the Blue Star Mothers headquarters.
even a small part to something that hopefully made a difference in someone’s life. I appreciate that they allowed us that opportunity.” BAN provides a monthly grocery bag for residents of Treetops, individual case management, holiday food baskets, workshops, training, health-related clinics and also fun activities such as bingo, parties and ice cream socials. “The BAPS administrator volunteers were great! They did a boatload of work and put smiles on the faces of all the residents they came in contact with,” said Goddard. BAPS administrators also volunteered their time during the retreat at Blue Star Mothers. It’s an organization made up of volunteers who collect and send needed items to military personnel around the world. “I have known for years that Blue Star Mothers is a good and
worthy organization,” said Janice Blankenship, Arrowhead principal. “Working there confirmed it.” Administrators helped package items to put into Christmas stockings and gift boxes. Each box contained letters for the service men and women to let them know they were being supported, as well as toiletries, snacks and entertainment items. Some stockings were taken to the Veterans Hospital in Claremore, where the Senior High School baseball team visited with the men and women of the facility and spread some holiday cheer. “I have always been a proponent of giving to those that are in need,” said Dr. Jarod Mendenhall, Superintendent of Schools. “The activities this fall have been healthy for everyone that participated. Often times, giving is more fulfilling than receiving.”
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BROKEN ARROW PUBLIC SCHOOLS 701 South Main Street Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74012
Broken Arrow Public Schools Patron Broken Arrow, OK 74011 Broken Arrow, OK 74012 Broken Arrow, OK 74014
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Beaming with Pride
Big finish for ‘ZO’ performance at Nationals The Pride of Broken Arrow competed against 90 of the nation’s top bands at the Bands of America Grand National Championships in Indianapolis, Indiana, and came back home with a second place finish. “The Pride had three great performances but the energy and connection to the audience in their Finals performance was absolutely electric,” said Marching Band coordinator Darrin Davis. Not only was the Pride awarded with a high achievement award for Outstanding Visual Effect and a 2nd place National finish, they also received the BOA Esprit de Corps Award, awarded by the Bands of America staff after it evaluates groups throughout the event to select the one that exhibits pride, spirit, enthusiasm, friendliness and unity of purpose. “This award is a reflection on the qualities that are taught to these kids from their teachers, parents and community” says Instrumental Music Coordinator Scott Tomlinson. “The positive influences that the kids get in all areas of their lives in Broken Arrow attributed to this award.” In addition to the Esprit de Corps award the band was also recognized as the Fan Favorite as voted on by the fans watching from the stadium and across the nation on a live internet feed.
• Victoria Ferguson and Gabrielle Padilla, both seniors at Broken Arrow High School, have been selected for the 2011 American High School Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall. They will be a part of the Honors Orchestra as a cellist and violist, respectively. Participation in the Honors Orchestra is limited to the highest rated high school performers from across North America. • Broken Arrow Public Schools’ Superintendent Dr. Jarod Mendenhall has appointed Dr. Barbara Evans as the interim principal at North Intermediate High School. Steve Nida recently announced his retirement effective Dec. 31 which created the vacancy. Dr. Mendenhall met with the faculty of North Intermediate and shared his gratitude and respect for Mr. Nida’s service to the district, the field of education and particularly to North Intermediate High School. Evans has served as an assistant principal at Haskell Middle School and retired in 2000 as the principal of Childers Middle School. Evans will begin her duties in January, 2011 and will serve through May, 2011. She is currently serving as professor of graduate studies in education at Northeastern State University. • Sabrina Medlock, a senior in Broken Arrow’s Margaret Hudson Program, has earned her CPR and Heartsaver First Aid cards through Tulsa Technology Center’s certified nursing program. Medlock, who attends TTC in the mornings and MHP in the afternoons, is on track to graduate from the Tulsa Tech CNA program in December. As a nursing student, Medlock is required to learn such skills as taking vital signs, making beds and transferring students, as well as the CPR training. • Broken Arrow High School had a record number of students this year selected to the Oklahoma All-State Choir. Those honored include: Megan Mattke (Soprano II), David Moreland (Tenor I), Cayley McCollugh (Alto II), Paige Whitson (Alto II), Hannah Parker (Alto II), Katie Creed (Alto) and Brance Bess (Bass Alternate). In addition, David Moreland, Megan Mattke, Katie Creed and Brance Bess were all selected to the Oklahoma Choral Directors All-State Jazz Choir. These students were selected from more than 5,000 choir students from across the state to participate in the OMEA All-State Choir on January 22, 2011, at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. The OCDA All-State Jazz Choir will sing in Oklahoma City on Jan. 15 at Southern Nazarene University.