radnor township school district · (res) and rms recieved high honors from the john hopkins...

Table of Contents

Introduction............................................................................................... 3

RTSD Accomplishments.......................................................................... 4

Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment...................................... 5-16

Communications..................................................................................17-21

Facilities.............................................................................................. 22-25

Finance................................................................................................. 26-30

Policy.................................................................................................... 31-34

District Level....................................................................................... 35-38

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Introduction

The mission of Radnor Township School District (RTSD) is to inspire in all students the love of learning and creating, and to empower them to discover and pursue their individual passions with knowledge, confidence, and caring to shape the future. RTSD’s tradition of excellence has garnered consistent recognition as one of the finest school systems in the nation.

Located 13 miles west of Philadelphia, Pa. in Radnor Township (pop. 30,000), RTSD covers nearly 14 square miles, serves a diverse, multicultural population, and includes Radnor High School, Radnor Middle School and Ithan, Radnor and Wayne Elementary Schools. Supported by a community that values top quality education, RTSD is proud to deliver an exceptional educational program that strives to meet the needs of students, their families, and the community.

The current RTSD Strategic Plan was submitted to the Pennsylvania Department of Education in January 2008. A review of the current plan allows future plans to maintain flexibility to ensure that the goals of the plan can guide the work of RTSD regardless of economic or federal and state policy changes. The creation of a strategic vision and plan helps ensure that RTSD remains relevant and responsive to the needs of the Radnor community.

Future strategic plans should reflect the following:

1. The goals must Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely (SMART). The goals must be supported by activities.

2. The goals must be measurable to determine whether or not RTSD is making progress toward the goal, and to clearly define the moment when the goal is achieved. 3. The goals must be targeted (retaining flexibility) to lead to the desired outcomes.

4. The goals must be time specific realizing that accountability for achieving the goal is enhanced when linked to a deadline.

For more information on RTSD, visit www.rtsd.org. Invest in Excellence3

RTSD Accomplishments

•All five RTSD schools achieved Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for the ninth consecutive year for the 2010-2011 school year. RTSD is the only school district in Delaware County that has met AYP each year since the measurement was first implemented.

•Ninety-six percent of Radnor High School (RHS) graduates pursue secondary education.

•Ninety-six RHS students were inducted into the National Honor Society Class of 2011. There are currently 174 RHS student members in NHS.

•Seven RHS students of the class of 2012 were named semi-finalists for National Merit Scholar-ships.

•RHS teachers Rick Dunbar and Alexis Swine-hart were listed among the top teachers on the Main Line in the October 2011 edition of Main Line Today magazine.

•RHS teachers Vincent Bondi and Paul Wright were officially recognized as outstanding educa-tors by the University of Chicago and Stanford University.

•Radnor Middle School (RMS) received the pres-tigious LEED Silver certification by the United States Green Building Council in Feb. 2011. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design designation has been received by only 579 educa-tional institutions across the nation.

•RTSD recently installed energy efficient gym lighting at RHS and Wayne Elementary School (WES) as well as new LED driveway lighting at Ithan Elementary School (IES). Material costs reimbursed through a PECO incentive program.

•99.9% of RTSD teachers are categorized as Highly Qualified in accordance with the crite-ria set forth by the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

•78.5% of RTSD teachers have earned advanced degrees.

•The 2011 RHS girls’ golf team placed second in the PIAA Championships.

•RHS senior Dorothy Hazan was one of 520 win-ners nationwide of the 2011 National Council of Teachers English Achievement Award in Writ-ing.

•RMS sixth-grader Luke Pererira-Ogan won the youth division of the Delaware Valley’s Chapter of the Ruffed Grouse Socety’s annual fall shoot for the second year in a row.

•Students from IES, Radnor Elementary School (RES) and RMS recieved high honors from The John Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth (CTY) at a Oct. 2, 2011 ceremony.

•RMS students Mikaela Uricheck and Katherine Hung won first and second place in the Delware County Intermediate Unit’s 2011 Veterans Day Essay Contest.

•Eleven members of RHS’ band and orchestra and ten members of its chorus were selected to represent the school at the Jan. and Feb. 2012 Pennsylvania Music Educators Association Dis-trict 12 Festivals.

•Nineteen members of the RHS Future Business Leaders of America (RadnorFBLA) placed in the top five at the Region 19 Leadership Conference held at Penncrest High School on Dec. 13, 2011.

•RMS 8th-grader Ethan Lee will play piano with the Philadelphia Orchestra on March 24, 2012 as a result of winning the children’s division at the Greenfield Competition in March 2011.

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Just some of the recent reasons to be Radnor Proud.

Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment

In order to maintain a record of high achievement, remain competitive, and pro-vide students with the global awareness and technological skills fundamental to their success in a world of unprecedented complexity and rapid change, Radnor Township School District must continuously review and update its curriculum content, emphasis, and delivery.

The increasingly rigorous demands imposed by external measures of achieve-ment, including the proposed state mandates for Keystone Exams, compel RTSD to review, assess, and refine kindergarten through 12th-grade curriculum to a new level of specificity. RTSD is committed to providing a balanced education rooted in critical reflection and the acquisition and application of knowledge and skills through the continuous improvement of teaching and learning and the implementation of innovative instructional practices designed to afford each student with a unique, individualized learning experience. Fulfilling this com-mitment in the face of changing expectations will require seamless collaboration between professional staff, judicious use of student performance data to guide instruction, and the vision to anticipate and stay ahead of evolving educational imperatives.

OVERVIEW

Invest in Excellence

Curriculum, Instruction & AssessmentGOAL 1.1 To develop and implement a written District-wide curriculum.

OBJECTIVES1.1.1 To review Radnor High School (RHS) course offerings as well as graduation requirements to align with state requirements.

1.1.2 To review the Advanced Placement (AP) course offerings, test scores and participation rate and to make recommendations regarding the AP offerings.

1.1.3 To review elective offerings for academic relevance, rigor and student participation and create a set of recommendations/modifications.

1.1.4 To analyze and review the schedules at RHS and Radnor Middle School (RMS) to determine both efficiencies and the need for recommended modification (if any).

1.1.5 To review and make recommendations for a full-day kindergarten program.

PROGRESS

A review has been conducted of all RHS courses, including AP courses and electives. An analysis of participation rates in classes and performance on all related assessments has also been completed. Adjustments were made to elec-tive classes to ensure class size equity. Vertical teams were created to facilitate K-12 alignment. An AP committee was also formed, whose work will both influ-ence and be influenced by RTSD Keystones alignment. The order and emphasis of all core courses at RMS and RHS will not only be adjusted, but there is a likelihood that electives will change as RTSD prepares to meet the state man-date to provide remedial courses for students who must re-take all or part of a Keystone exam. Similarly, schedules at RMS and RHS will be adjusted to meet the increasing demands imposed by the Keystones.

A cost projection for full-day kindergarten was created and presented at the April 2011 Board of School Directors meeting. A survey draft has been created to collect stakeholder feedback. RTSD is in the process of finalizing this survey and determining the best approach for reaching all community stakeholders.

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Curriculum, Instruction & AssessmentGOAL 1.2 To analyze and determine the extent that the assessments used in RTSD yield information that can be used for appropriate decision-making as

well as aligning with Pennsylvania requirements.

OBJECTIVES1.2.1 To review the student progress on national, state and local assessments to ascertain gaps and determine alignment with the RTSD curriculum aswell as with student groups (economically disadvantaged, special education).

1.2.2 To develop/update the elementary report card so that it aligns with the curriculum, accurately informs parents of their student’s progress, and is offered in an electronic format.

1.2.3 To identify, clarify and memorialize the criteria for weighting of courses.

PROGRESS

Assessment data is housed in Performance Tracker data warehouse and is reviewed for outlying scores and trends. Identified gaps for students are being addressed with the new elementary reading, writing, and vocabulary program. Special education student needs are being met on an individual basis.

The need for additional data on students in grades 6-11 has been addressed by the expansion of the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) exams through 8th grade and the addition of the PSAT administration in grades 9-11. RTSD does and will continue to analyze assessment data by student group. However, a more systematized deconstruction of the data would provide fur-ther actionable guidance for programming.

A new online elementary report card was drafted, publicly reviewed, and re-vised during Spring 2011. It was implemented Fall 2011, stakeholder input was solicited, received, and addressed.

As reflected in the 2012-13 Program of Studies, course weighting was reviewed and descriptions were revised in Spring 2011. Changes will again be required as RTSD progresses towards Keystones alignment.

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Curriculum, Instruction & AssessmentGOAL 1.3 To create an analysis of effectiveness and parity of program/staff

allocations.

OBJECTIVES1.3.1 To conduct a review all co-teaching programs and determine their effect-tiveness for enhancing student achievement. • High School Integrated program • Middle School Integrated Program • Special Education co-teaching K-12 Electives

1.3.2 To review and evaluate the services to students with Gifted Individual Education Plans (GIEPs) and to align the RTSD program to the best practices for serving all students.

1.3.3 To review and evaluate the Communication, Academics, Social Skills and Life (CASL) Program and to align the RTSD program to the best practices for serving the low incidence population.

1.3.4 To continue to assess (within each school) the Regular Education Initia-tives (REI) that are available and maintain and continue to increase these interventions: • Continue to provide appropriate support(s) and service(s) for the regular education teachers in their efforts to provide students with the least restrictive environment through REI. • Carefully review budget requirements of REI to assure that REI continues to the maximum extent possible and to reveal the short and long term impact of reducing supports in regular education.

PROGRESS

A review of all co-teaching programs was begun in Spring 2011 and continues. This review and its goals are evolving as the standards for student achieve-ment by grade level have changed.

Providing students with disabilities access to the general education curriculum is the best way to ensure RTSD educational programs are compliant with state and federal law. One way to do this is through co-teaching. RTSD provides over 28 co-taught (special education and regular education) classes. Over 600 stu-

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dents benefit from this method of special education service delivery. Not every student in the class has an Individual Education Plan (IEP). Therefore, these sections also support general education students who may need additional sup-port to reach their maximum potential. Maintaining robust instruction in all classrooms allows this strategy to meet students’ needs with and without IEPs.

Enhanced services for gifted students are being piloted during 2011-12 at RMS and RHS. Expanded elementary services in the form of universal access to Ju-nior Great Books, above-grade-level literary materials, and advanced vocabu-lary lessons have been implemented for students demonstrating grade level mastery. CASL was created as a means of educating RTSD students with low incidence/complex disabilities in keeping with the RTSD commitment to educating stu-dents in the least restrictive environment and in accordance with federal and state law. Students with complex learning needs are entering RTSD via early intervention services. The CASL program is one venue that provides small group instruction to RTSD students in a multi-age classroom currently located at Wayne Elementary School (WES).

Early intervention meetings are currently occurring. A meeting is scheduled for March 2012 to review the needs of incoming early intervention students.

An ongoing review of REI, a federally mandated best practice, continues. Data collection, analysis and instructional response protocols are being crafted dur-ing 2011-12 school year. These would benefit greatly from further study of the validity and reliability of RTSD’s assessments and detailed summary analyses of student response to instructional interventions. In keeping with the RTSD core value of respecting and valuing diversity, the REI is a method of service delivery to educate all students in core educational programs. Co-teaching for students with IEPs is one example of implementing REI, as is teachers’ use of differentiated instruction.

A variety of instructional options are available at RTSD. All programs are un-der constant review.

Curriculum, Instruction & AssessmentGOAL 1.3 To create an analysis of effectiveness and parity of program/staff

allocations.

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Curriculum, Instruction & AssessmentGOAL 1.4 To create a protocol for alignment of the Strategic Plan and policies

with appropriate curriculum and instruction recommendations.

OBJECTIVES1.4.1 To implement changes/revisions from mid-point review and to align those changes with the current work of RTSD.

1.4.2 To review the current best practices to create a set of recommendations for the following areas: • Textbook, online • Virtual course work • Dual enrollment

1.4.3 To review the relevant information from the state regarding new or modi-fied requirements and create a plan for implementation of the requirements: • Senior project • Keystone exams • Graduation requirements • Physical education requirements

1.4.4 To review, broadly communicate, implement, and evaluate the Student Network/Acceptable Use Policy.

PROGRESS

Many objectives of the strategic plan have been met. However, both mandated student performance benchmarks and technological advances have forced the work of RTSD to diverge from activities initially outlined in the strategic plan.

Research has been conducted on best practices in the use of online textbooks, offering virtual course work, and expanding dual enrollment opportunities for students. Recommendations for pilot studies and consultation services have been expressed to the school board.

The review outlined in 1.4.3 has been completed. Graduation requirements have expanded to include success on the Keystone Exams and alignment for this success is the first curricular priority for RTSD.


Curriculum, Instruction & AssessmentGOAL 1.4 To create a protocol for alignment of the Strategic Plan and policies

with appropriate curriculum and instruction recommendations.

RTSD currently meets all graduation requirements and is in the process of studying options for increasing the relevance of the senior project as well as for alternatives for meeting the state physical education requirements.

The acceptable use policy and guidelines for current technology use are sound. However, these will need to be revised as RTSD moves toward school-to-home use. Acceptable use policies for this purpose have been collected from other school districts for revision as new needs arise due to technology pilots.

RTSD is in the process of collecting feedback from the pilot programs and will propose acceptable use policies for board approval in advance of distribution of school-to-home devices to students.

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Curriculum, Instruction & AssessmentGOAL 1.5 To create an ongoing mechanism for the use and evaluation of

technology.

OBJECTIVES1.5.1 To ensure instructional alignment (Curriculum/Instruction/Communica-tions) with the appropriate utilization of technology to enhance instruction for all students.

1.5.2 To establish a standard for classroom teachers for webpages and commu-nication with parents.

1.5.3 To establish a process for ensuring that the District’s technology infra-structure, data management system and integration is viable, robust and flex-ible to adjust to future data needs.

PROGRESS

Evaluation and support for the effective use of instructional technology as part of teaching and learning occurs through a variety of methods and programs. Over 110 teachers have participated in the Aligning Curriculum and Technol-ogy with Standards (ACTS) program and have developed, implemented and shared with colleagues standards-based lessons that integrate technology using a variety of tools, applications and processes. Monthly technology com-mittee meetings in each building address the integration of technology ap-plications by grade level and department. The technology integration coach provides workshops and meets with classroom teachers to integrate current applications, such as Smart Notebook and Web 2.0 tools, as part of instruction. Teacher Technology Facilitators further support the utilization of effective SmartBoard lessons and communication through teacher websites. Principals and Curriculum Administrators regularly observe technology integrated les-sons and provide feedback. Rubrics for the evaluation of technology-infused lessons and observation of pilots has been shared with principals.

In addition, through a partnership with the University of Pennsylvania, 18 teachers are participating in the graduate level course, “Engaging Students in Digital Learning Environments.”

A standard for classroom teacher webpages was established and implemented



technology.

in Fall 2012.

Standards have been established by levels and communicated to teachers. Professional development workshops were held at each school. Additional sup-port for teachers has been provided by school building technicians. All teacher websites have been updated. All teacher websites were reviewed by the Cur-riculum team. Principals are following up with revisions and monitoring.

The process for identification of hardware for replacement was presented to the Curriculum/Finance Committee, as well as plans for replacement and upgrades. Ongoing evaluation of network, hardware and software continues based on current and future needs.

Significant infrastructure improvements have been made to the following: • Security with Fortinet firewall appliance enhancements and updates; • Speed with replacement of old Nortel data switches with new Hewlett Packard network core and data switches; • Wireless access with upgrade of Alcatel/Aruba WLAN appliance, radius server deployment, and additional access points installed in Radnor Elementary School (RES), Ithan Elementary School (IES), and RMS; • Scalable storage with the addition of the NetApp Storage Area Network (8 Terabyte base storage); • Disaster recovery for RTSD core servers with off-site fail over using virtual servers; • One of the first school districts to deploy the use of virtual server infrastructure dating back to 2005; • Disaster recovery with administration virtual core file servers using VMWare technology; • Improved email management and prep work for moving to Microsoft Exchange 2010; • Hosted management software via cloud using SunGard software suite; • Expanded on SunGard student information system software with deployment of elementary Teacher Access Center (TAC)/Home Access Center (HAC) and Student Access Center (SAC) accounts for RHS and RMS;


• Information systems continuously adapted for compliance with Pennsylvania Information Management System (PIMS) and the U.S. Department of Education Office of Civil Rights mandated reporting; • Telephone system replacement process and vendor RFP award; • Continuous research regarding information technology management, emerging infrastructure technology, database management, and net work security. • Participation in the National Clearinghouse – Student Tracker System for tracking students’ post-high school education activity.


technology.

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Curriculum, Instruction & AssessmentGOAL 1.6 To ensure that the professional development plan for RTSD aligns with the curriculum and instruction goals, is relevant, and meets the ongoing needs

of staff.

OBJECTIVES1.6.1 To determine and analyze the K-12 Vertical Curriculum alignment with special attention to literacy and middle school algebra and determine recom-mendations as well as professional development needs.

1.6.2 To create a plan to prepare teachers (and staff) for professional develop-ment that: • Aligns with the objectives; • Prepares staff for requirements; • Reflects the best practices of education.

PROGRESS

Professional development in 2011-12 consists of conducting detailed analyses of the content and skills taught and assessed at each grade level; examination of the efficacy of assessments; work on common assessments; realignment for the Keystone Exams; inventorying of materials and resources; and development of accountability protocols.

The establishment in Spring 2011, and implementation in Fall 2011, of vertical teams, ensures the involvement of and communication to all RTSD teachers.

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Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2012-13

SMART GOALBy January 2013, complete the revision and refinement of 60% of the

kindergarten through 12th grade curriculum to align with mandated standards and assessment and community expectations.

ACTIVITIES1) Complete the vertical and horizontal alignment of curriculum in the areas of English/language arts, life sciences, mathematics, and social studies grades 6-12 to align with mandatory Keystone Exams and align all other curricula K-12 to support the community vision of a well-educated graduate.

2) Assess and provide for the needs of learners across the spectrum of abilities and backgrounds through the articulation of a continuum of services that sup-ports the achievement of individual excellence.

3) Connect technology infused units and lessons to curricular goals, common core and state standards, and the strategic plan while monitoring and evaluat-ing its integration into class instruction and influence on student achievement.

4) Evaluate the latest instructional technologies to determine their suitability for RTSD curricular ends by conducting controlled pilot studies of devices that can be used to meet multiple instructional objectives.

5) Institutionalize the operation of vertical teams of teachers as a mechanism to involve all teachers in contributing to and collaborating on enhancements for the instructional program and for the improvement of professional staff skills and competencies.

6) Optimize the use of assessment data for evidence-based continuous improve-ment of teaching and learning.

7) Institute and maintain an ongoing, interactive system to provide the com-munity with detailed information concerning critical issues in education that is available to the public on demand.

8) Research and provide recommendations for the establishment of online in-structional delivery options. 16

Communications

Radnor Township School District is one of the best in the nation partly because of the range of exceptional programs, initiatives and accomplishments regularly taking place in its schools. The RTSD Communications Office showcases these items through internal media and outreach to external media. Through these efforts, in addition to concentrated communication that informs all stakeholders about RTSD initiatives, operations and breaking news items, the Communica-tions Office serves an important role in maintaining and underscoring the value of RTSD in the Radnor community.

OVERVIEW


CommunicationsGOAL 2.1 To communicate effectively with the public.

OBJECTIVES2.1.1 To refine and expand digital communications (eMinders) and to improve RTSD’s communication with members of the community outside of its schools. Focus will be on improving and expanding communication of: • School-related activities • Administrative updates • School board business • Create a section on e-minders for board communications to include any board meeting announcements, recaps, special announcements, etc.

2.1.2 To investigate the feasibility of a periodic e-newsletter to be distributed to the general community. Project will include: • Devising a plan to reach out to members of the greater community • Determining interest and feasibility • Urging community members to enroll in email program • Enrolling volunteer help • Designing e-newsletter • Determining other uses of e-mail vehicle; i.e. urgent issues • Coordinating with community organizations such as private schools, Radnor League of Women Voters, local civic organizations, sports organizations etc., to help build contact database

2.1.3 To conduct ongoing and periodic reviews of the www.RTSD.org and implement enhancements where appropriate.

2.1.4 To evaluate Web 2.0 tools for use (YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, etc.)

2.1.5 To evaluate RTSD cable channel for improved coverage.

2.1.6 To evaluate ways in which RTSD can actively and regularly solicit and use input from parents, community and staff.

PROGRESS

The Communications Office has broadened RTSD promotional efforts to in-crease attendees to district and community events. With increased attendance,


Communications

stakeholders are more aware of RTSD’s value in the community. This strategy has already seen return on investment, with recent events such as Parent In-formation Night and Breakfast with Santa having higher attendance than in the past. In partnership with the Curriculum Department, RTSD Information Sessions have been launched. These live events, open to the public, will focus on topics of interest. They will be recorded for podcasting and online broadcast.

The Communications Office has redesigned eMinders and the eMinder regis-tration webpage for ease of navigation and updated style. More efficient pro-duction processes with school building eMinder representatives have been coor-dinated. District News stories, photo galleries, and other RTSD.org content has been integrated into eMinders to increase traffic throughout website. School-wires’ website statistics (launched Dec. 2010) report that eMinder traffic for all schools is up since above changes implemented in September 2011.

Discussed feasibility of e-newsletter or print newsletter with Communications Committee. Reviewed e-newsletters of other districts.

Several areas of RTSD.org have been redesigned, including the homepage, the District News page, the photo gallery, the Radnor Proud page, the Community Bulletin Board, and Announcements pane. Google Analytics has been imple-mented to track visitors to all areas of site and cater to demand.

The Communications Office is investigating the launch of a Twitter account for timely dissemination of district news. The launch of a YouTube account is also being investigated. Social media policies are also being researched.

Continual work with RADTV to repurpose website stories for TV broadcast.

The Communications Committee will meet every six weeks. Coverage of dis-trict news has been enhanced through the recruitment of parents, staff and students to contribute to story/photo creation. Communications between par-ties seeking district coverage of news items has been standardized through “Share Your RTSD News,” an online form district teachers, parents and stu-dents can complete and submit to notify the Communications Office about news items for potential coverage.

GOAL 2.1 To communicate effectively with the public.

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CommunicationsGOAL 2.2 To communicate effectively with the School Board.

OBJECTIVES2.2.1 To review current procedures and implement enhancements to the pro-cess whereby the board can be kept informed in a timely and consistent man-ner.

2.2.2 To create a budgetary “dashboard” with accompanying executive sum-mary, for presentation to the board and other stakeholders. This dashboard should be used to formulate an annual district operational report card, measur-ing the performance of the district in key areas over the school year.

2.2.3 To conduct review and recommend enhancements to the current struc-ture of board and committee meetings, agendas, meeting minutes, etc.

PROGRESS

A weekly update is developed and provided to the board and cabinet including information related to district issues as well as opportunities to read about cur-rent trends in education.

Video of committee and board meetings now available online. Podcasting is also now an option.

The administration tried to create a dashboard. Recognizing that technical assistant was necessary to accurately reflect both a budgetary summary and measurement of key performance indicators for the district, the administration conducted research into other school districts and the use of dashboard. The administration selected a dashboard and will present the findings and recom-mendation to the board.

Several committees (Policy, Curriculum, Finance) set additional meetings to discuss pertinent issues. Where appropriate, committees have worked together to present alignment of work related to, i.e.: • Facilities/Finance • Curriculum/Finance – (Technology)

Board training was conducted for new board members with a copy of the pre-sentation provided to the board.

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Communications


SMART GOALBy January 2013, district communications will be integrated across multiple platforms to increase engagement of internal and external

stakeholders 10% as measured by usage.

ACTIVITIESWebsite enhancements (www.rtsd.org) • Optimize for mobile access. • Improve intuitiveness of navigation. • Incorporate social media sharing • Monitor and respond to analytics.

Social media implementation: • Research, develop and launch two social media polices, one to guide RTSD staff seeking to use social media as a learning tool and another to guide RTSD social media accounts. • Launch a RTSD Twitter account to share district news and alerts. Promote this account through various media (website, eMinders, etc.) • Create a RTSD online video channel (i.e., YouTube, Teacher Tube) for the broadcast of informative meetings and select events. • Continue to monitor current and emerging social media.

New media • Coordinate podcasts of informative meetings and select events and create new section on website to house podcast database. • Implement media/social media monitoring through third-party service.

Recruit intern from local college in aid in communications. Bolster engagement of students, staff and parents to aid in coverage of district news items.

Increase communication to external community, specifically taxpayers with no children in district schools.

Investigate using third party service to expand e-alerts.

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Radnor Township School District has been a leader in its exemplary facilities improvement and operations programs, including some of the nation’s first, en-vironmentally responsible green buildings. Facilities and the learning environ-ment play a vital role in the success of our students and staff. Understanding and building upon that premise, RTSD will continue to maintain the care of its facilities as a top priority.

FacilitiesOVERVIEW


FaciltiiesGOAL 3.1 Analyze resources opportunities to ensure efficient and cost

effective operations.

OBJECTIVES3.1.1 Review outsourcing of key services, such as transportation, custodial and food services.

3.1.2 Monitor outside funding opportunities for general operations, such as energy efficiency upgrades, vending and rental revenues.

PROGRESS

Analyses of the efficencies of RTSD systems have been completed and reviewed at Board level. The direction to maintain key services at current efficiency lev-els is being administered.

Various funding resources have been established and successful implementa-tion of these initiatives have realized revenues in energy use, systems replace-ment, emergency management and facilities improvement programs. Vending resources have been established and rental revenues are currently being re-viewed at committee level. Anticipated completion of rental revenue modifica-tions is Spring 2012.

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GOAL 3.2 Provide for an efficient replacement of the HVAC system at Wayne Elementary School.

OBJECTIVES3.2.1 Periodically review renovation progress for the HVAC system replace-ment at WES and report to Board.

PROGRESS

Phase one of the two phase process has been successfully completed. The proj-ect is on time and significantly under budget. Phase two is to begin in June 2012 with completion slated for September 2012.

FaciltiiesGOAL 3.3 Provide adequate planning for the upkeep of all facilities and for the

safety of all students and staff.

OBJECTIVES3.3.1 Monitor the ongoing Capital Improvement and Maintenance Plans to pro-vide for clean, safe and efficient facilities.

PROGRESS

An ambitious capital improvement plan has been developed, budgeted and im-plemented. Work order systems and preventive work order management initia-tives are in place. Monitoring of systems and facilities conditions is performed on a continual basis. Systems are run via a building automation system and continual upgrades to both hardware and software are completed. Cleaning is performed utilizing the latest in technologies and techniques.

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GOAL 3.4 Recommend use, rental and disposition of real estate assets.

OBJECTIVES3.4.1 Evaluate property use and values, modular classroom use and values and make recommendations to Board.

3.4.2 Review facilities rental guidelines and fee schedule and make recommen-dations for any potentially beneficial changes.

3.4.3 Evaluate alternatives for parking and implement most cost effective solu-tions.

PROGRESS

A complete assessment of all real estate assets was completed by Coyle Lynch Associates and a presentation was made to the Facilities Committee. Modular classroom use assessments have been completed and approval for the removal of modular classrooms at Wayne and Ithan Elementary Schools has been ac-quired. Plans for removal are being completed for these projects during Summer 2012.

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Facilities


SMART GOALBy January 2013, 100% of RTSD facilities will be evaluated for environments conducive for learning, as measured by definitive planning tools, resource utilization, detailed data analysis, and

within 2012-2013 budget paramenters.

ACTIVITIESComplete review and revision of use of facilities protocol.

Monitor completion of Wayne Elementary School HVAC project.

Complete removal of the modular classrooms.

Continue to monitor and assess facilities improvements.

Finance

Due to good stewardship by administration and the school board, RTSD is on track to thrive during these challenging economic times. However, the challenges of Act 1 to remain fiancially healthy and viable are many and varied. Financial goals have been formulated to address primary issues that require ongoing plan-ning. The goals also provide a multi-year approach toward retaining financial health and vitality that support the educational and operational goals of RTSD.

OVERVIEW


FinanceGOAL 4.1 Review and revamp (where necessary) the entire budget from initial

distribution of budget packets to buildings and departments through final adoption by the Board of School Directors.

OBJECTIVES4.1.1 To have a new, improved and streamlined budget formulation process in place for Fall 2011 for the upcoming 2012-13 budget. This would include: 1) Review and implementation of zero-based budgeting practices where practical within the budget process. 2) Contingency plans for referendum procedures when and if necessary in a given year. 3) Assessment of public involvement in the budget process.

PROGRESS

This goal is largely complete: • Revised financial reporting systems to better present categories of expenditures• Began process March 2011 with visit to each school and department head to conduct line-by-line budget analysis.• Budget calendar adopted by Board in June 2011 in compliance with Act 1.• Prepared and submitted Meritorious Budget to the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO).• Budget books formulated and distributed to schools and departments in De-cember 2011.• Revised budget presentation in December 2011.

Still remaining: • Contingency plans for referendum.

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FinanceGOAL 4.2 Assessment of existing operational programs for efficiency and

cost-effectiveness.

OBJECTIVES4.2.1 To provide the Board and Administration with an analysis andassessment of some key existing programs.

4.2.2 To provide the Board and Administration with an analysis and assess-ment of supplemental stipends.

4.2.3 To provide the Board and Administration with an analysis and assess-ment of legal counsel use.

PROGRESS

The following analyses were presented to the Board:• Grounds Maintenance• Use of eBay and other online mechanisms for disposal of supplies, books and equipment• Assignment of fund balance accounts to specific programs and areas• Debt restructuring and bond defeasance• Pool Management contract revamped and renewed• Enhanced use of vending in the Food Service Program• Streamlining of tax collection process

Supplemental stipends were assessed, streamlined and completed as part of 2012-13 budget process.

Analysis and assessment of legal counsel use is ongoing.

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FinanceGOAL 4.3 Review and revamp Administrative and Board reporting procedures

for purposes of developing dashboard approach to formulating and presenting pertinent information on a standard monthly basis.

OBJECTIVES4.3.1 To provide technical support to all core areas of RTSD operation (i.e. cur-riculum, operations, technology, etc.) in developing a dashboard reporting sys-tem to provide maximum transparency associated with all aspects of key com-ponents of how these areas are being run.

PROGRESS

The budgetary process has been selected as the primary and on-going basis for providing technical support.

Recognized the need for consultation and creation of a dashboard reporting system. Selected a dashboard. Presentation to board is pending.

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GOAL 4.4 Assessment of past cost savings measures and how effective they were from both a cost savings and operational perspective.

OBJECTIVES4.4.1 To gather and recognize the Districts efforts that supports an austerity plan.

PROGRESS

• Enhanced bidding and purchasing process • Better monitoring of spending and spending patterns• Analysis of use of staff• Enhanced budget process• Development of a budget at or below the Act 1 index• Options for use of fund balance in keeping with GAAP and District Fund Balance Policy (6.20)• Monitoring of cost containment strategies adopted annually as part of the budget approval process

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Finance


SMART GOALBy January 2013, a fiscal monitoring process will be implemented to

ensure revenues and expenses are as close to budget as fiscally possible as measured by no more than a XX%* variance.

ACTIVITIESEvaluate the financial software systems to determine efficiency including but not limited to:• Budget preparation• Payroll, purchasing• Accounts payable• Bidding• Financial reporting• Human resources• Food service• Tax collection

Strengthen internal controls including but not limited to:• Automating payroll entry• Automating time and attendance• Standardizing cash flow analysis

*Figure to be determined

Policy

Radnor Township School District, in conjunction with the Board of School Direc-tors and the Administration, has developed and adopted numerous policies that comprise both local specifications and ever-changing state and federal laws and regulations.

OVERVIEW


*Figure to be determined

PolicyGOAL 5.1 Support goals and objectives of other board committees to the

extent that their goals and objectives require developing appropriate policy.

OBJECTIVE5.1.1 To work with the chairpersons of the Curriculum, Finance, and Facilities Committees to develop a system for developing respective policies.

PROGRESS

Committee chairs and administration have worked to align committee goals with policy:• Possession/Use of Asthma Inhalers/Epinephrine Auto-Injectors (210.1)• Student Records (216)• Fiscal Objectives (601)• Payment of Bills (616)• District Audit (619)• Fund Balance (620)• Financial Development (626)• Naming School District Facilities (701.1)• Gifts, Grants, Donations (702)

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GOAL 5.2 Development of two adjunct committee members that would include a teacher and student.

OBJECTIVES5.2.1 To have a student representative on the Policy Committee.

5.2.2 To have an Radnor Teachers Education Association (RTEA) representative on the Policy Committee.

PROGRESS

Radnor High School student was selected and placed on the Policy Committee as of March 2011.

RTEA representative was selected and placed on the Policy Committee as of March 2011.

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PolicyGOAL 5.3 Develop the below policies at future meetings.

OBJECTIVES5.3.1 #701-1-Naming School District Facilities5.3.2 #702-Gifts, Grants Donations5.3.3 Relations with Special Interest Groups5.3.4 #616-Payment of Bills5.3.5 Fund Balance5.3.6 Advertising and Alternative Revenue Sources

PROGRESS

Policy #701.1 was drafted, reviewed, revised and ultimately adopted at the July 19, 2011 Business Board Meeting. Following adoption, Administrative Regulations were developed, discussed with administration, and placed on www.rtsd.org.

Policy #702 was drafted, reviewed, revised and ultimately adopted at the July 19, 2011 Business Board Meeting. Following adoption, Administrative Regula-tions were developed, discussed with administration and placed on rtsd.org.

A policy related to Political Partisan Campaign Events has been drafted and revised on November 15, 2011. In addition to the Policy Committee and pub-lic discussions, RTSD sought technical assistance from the solicitor. A special Policy Committee meeting on January 24, 2012 was scheduled to develop the draft for first reading.

Policy #616 was drafted, reviewed, revised and ultimately adopted at the April 26, 2011 Business Board Meeting. Following adoption, Administrative Regula-tions were developed, discussed with administration and placed on rtsd.org.

Policy #620 was drafted, reviewed, revised and ultimately adopted at the July 19, 2011, Business Board Meeting.

A policy related to Advertising and Sponsorships has been created and revised on January 10, 2012. In addition to the Policy Committee and public discus-sion, RTSD sought technical assistance from the solicitor. A revised draft was presented to the Policy Committee on January 10, 2012, with the goal of the committee to move the latest draft of the policy onto the full Board for first reading on January 24, 2012.

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Policy

SMART GOALBy January 2013, design and publish a quarterly report that

articulates the process and progress of reviewing, developing and maintaining effective Board policies.

ACTIVITIESPolicymaking is a mandated responsibility of a governing board. Developing and maintaining effective policies that comprise both local specifications and ever-changing state and federal laws and regulations is a difficult, time-con-suming task. Policies need to be reviewed and updated so that they are aligned with goals, mandates and laws. They should allow the district flexibility due to legislative changes.

Policy goals for 2012 include but are not limited to the addition of the following:• Social Media Policy• Safety in Youth Sports Policy• Completion and adoption of Political Partisan Campaign Events


District Level

The current Radnor Township School District Strategic Plan was submitted to the Pennsylvania Department of Education in January 2008. A review of the current plan allows all future plans to maintain flexibility to ensure that the goals of the plan can guide the work of the district regardless of economic or fed-eral and state policy changes. The creation of a strategic vision and plan helps ensure that RTSD remains relevant and responsive to the needs of the Radnor community. The strategic vision, “Building for the Future,” will facilitate the creation of goals and objectives in an orderly and systematic way. Following the creation of goals, the Board can facilitate the process by setting policies and ulti-mately budgetary decisions that will guide RTSD into a successful future.

OVERVIEW


District LevelGOAL 6.1 To start the process of reviewing the Strategic Plan in preparation for the end of life of the existing plan and to establish and/or validate our strategic

mission, vision, and supporting strategies for 2013 and beyond.

OBJECTIVES6.1.1 Assess if budget needed to implement the existing strategic plan has been adequate to truly address and implement the plan and what the costs associ-ated with the new strategic plan may be over the years to be included.

PROGRESS

The strategic planning process has been budgeted for 2012-13 under broader areas of the budget, specifically technology and curriculum funding.

The current strategic plan was reviewed for the midpoint report. Significant goals in the plan have been achieved. Much of the funding for the technology portion of the current plan was moved into the operating budget.

The process for gaining stakeholder input for the upcoming strategic plan be-gan with the kick-off presentation of “Building for the Future.” Four key ques-tions were provided to gather initial input from stakeholders:

1. What do we want for our students? 2. Where do we want our schools to be in the next several years? 3. How will we get there? 4. How will we know we were successful?

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District LevelGOAL 6.2 Evaluate and make recommendations for the creation of a

development process/strategy or function to address the District’s need to find alternate sources of funding to ensure continued delivery of Radnor education.

OBJECTIVES6.2.1 Determine the costs associated with creation of a development “office” to include both start-up and ongoing operations and ascertain if options other than creation of a development “office” would be more cost effective.

PROGRESS

At the present time, administration is not recommending the creation of a de-velopment office. The functions for fundraising have been detailed in the devel-opment report (on www.rtsd.org) The new board policy 626, the Aministrative Regulation 626, as well as revisions to policies 701.1 and 702 demonstrate how board policies can support RTSD goals.

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District Level

SMART GOALBy January 2013, RTSD will articulate our theory of action by aligning our continuous improvement efforts through the creation of an action

plan. The action plan will be formalized to include: a description of the research-based strategies and actions; in-process measures; targets;

expected results; persons impacted; resources required; and timelines for completion. The results of this SMART goal will be

reported on the RTSD dashboard.

ACTIVITIESIntegrate and align the 2012-2013 budget and external fundraising with curriculum, instruction and operational goals.

Ensure the quality of staff by providing vital, challenging, current and consistently focused professional development.

Continuously improve communication systems among and between board, administration, staff, parents and community to ensure that the work toward accomplishing goals is current and transparent.

Constantly report district and school progress to the community via goal updates.

Launch a district-wide and community-wide campaign to elevate the district and achieve recognition for RTSD’s performance as a high-performance educational institution.


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radnor township school district · (res) and rms recieved high honors from the john hopkins...

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