STATE OF THE SCHOOLS FRISCO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

Transcription

1 ANNUAL REPORT STATE OF THE SCHOOLS FRISCO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

2 Dear Friends of FISD, Earlier this school year, Frisco ISD found itself in the national spotlight when Maus Middle School student Kylee Shea experienced a serious medical emergency and our own coaches, Brent Reese and Kristen Goodgion, used CPR and the school s external defibrillator to revive her. As the story played out, it was exciting to see members of our FISD family on national television, but it wasn t the trips to New York City or the media attention that thrilled us at FISD. We were happy because Kylee was back in class, doing well, and our family had been part of her success story. The story of Frisco ISD continues day in and day out, year after year. We have our successes and our challenges. Everyone from the principals to the custodians and crossing guards influences a student s life. We see it in so many ways: The coach who buys a bag of groceries for a student s struggling family. The teacher who stocks up on extra books at garage sales because she knows someone in her class doesn t have books at home. The school receptionist who goes to every sports event and academic competition because she has school spirit even after a full day in the office. Superintendent s Message One of our parents recently shared that his elementary daughter walked home alone for the first time this year and on her very first day experienced problems with her door key. One of her teachers was driving by and saw her on the doorstep, obviously upset. The teacher stopped, intervened, and helped make a scary situation better. Frisco ISD has been one of the fastest growing school districts in the state and nation for many years now, but it is the human factor that makes us more than just a fast-growing school system. Frisco ISD is what we say we are. We are a district that looks at education through the eyes of children. I invite you to read this annual report with that in mind. Look at it through the eyes of our educators, our parents, but most of all our children. Sincerely, Rick Reedy Superintendent of Schools

3 Regularly Scheduled School Board Meetings SECOND MONDAY EACH MONTH 7:30 PM Board Room FISD Administration Building 5515 Ohio Frisco, Texas School Board President Dan Mossakowski Secretary Laura Ellison Richard Beaver Debbie Gillespie Vice President Renée Ehmke Seven-Member Board Supports FISD Efforts One driving force behind the continued success of Frisco ISD is the support of the seven-member Board of Trustees. Members are elected officials who serve three-year terms in at large places. The positions are unpaid. The Board sets policies, approves District budget items and hires and supervises the superintendent. All current board members are parents of one or more FISD students and/or recent graduates of FISD high schools. John Hoxie Anne McCausland

4 FISD Continues to See Unprecedented Growth The Frisco area is a top-rated destination for families and Frisco ISD is one of the major reasons families choose to locate here. Even as home building slowed due to the national and state economy, FISD has continued to experience growth. The Numbers As of January 6, 2012, student enrollment reached 40,233 representing an increase of 2,792 students compared to the same time last year. Within the 75 square miles of Frisco ISD, 5,100 employees serve students living in both Collin and Denton Counties, which includes the majority of Frisco, along with portions of Plano, Little Elm, and McKinney. The district is approximately 50 percent built-out. In 1998, FISD included seven schools. Since then, FISD has added 45 schools. To meet construction needs, FISD citizens authorized schoolhouse bonds through four referendums in eight years totaling $1.692 billion ($118 million, $298 million, $478 million and $798 million). These referendums passed with 95, 96, 89.4, and 73 percent approval ratings respectively, demonstrating strong community support for education within FISD. Dr. Reedy and Boals Elementary Principal Anna Koenig present FISDʼs 40,000 student with a basket of gifts, provided by local business partners, FISD and Frisco Education Foundation. Natalie enrolled in the second grade at Boals in August Growth Continues Construction Ongoing Frisco ISD consolidated many services into one convenient location when the new FISD Administration Building opened at 5515 Ohio during the fall of Three new elementary schools and one middle school are currently under construction and will open in August Joyce Kelly Comstock Elementary School 7152 Silverado Trail McKinney, Texas Gene and Ruby Nichols Elementary School 7411 Nichols Trail Frisco, Texas Billy Gene Phillips Elementary School 2285 Little River Drive Frisco, Texas Billy Thompson Vandeventer Middle School 6075 Independence Parkway Frisco, Texas With available bond funds, the district has monies to serve up to 52,000 students. The commitment of the Board, the Administration and the community is to build facilities that maintain a small, personal learning environment. Elementary schools are built to accommodate 760 students; middle schools, 800-1,000 students; and high schools, between 1,500 and 1,800 students. At this time, the district is implementing plans for high school additions that will be built as each school reaches capacity, expanding high school capacity to 2,000-2,100. Why Frisco Builds Smaller Schools Having smaller schools allows more students to be involved in activities and for meaningful relationships to be forged between students and teachers. At our high schools, the majority of the student body is involved in some school-related activity outside of the classroom. Frisco ISD leaders think this involvement allows more students to feel they are invested in their education experience. In , both Centennial High School and Wakeland High School bands went to state competition. CHS took third place and Wakeland took seventh. Frisco s decision to attempt to operate multiple, manageable high schools means more kids have the chance to go to state competitions, be in the Top Ten of their class, know their teachers, act in a play or participate in a sport. FISD has long been recognized for its tremendous growth but in FISD, success is based on the accomplishments of the individual student.

5 Rick Reedy Keri Miller Mission Statement By providing a unique learning environment that maximizes student opportunity and invests in meaningful relationships, the mission of the Frisco Independent School District is to partner with parents and community in developing caring citizens equipped to continue learning and pursue their aspirations. Dr. Debra Nelson Richard Wilkinson Doug Zambiasi Shana Wortham Instructional Support Staff Dr. Linda Bass Rick Burnett Melissa Fouche Dr. Mike Waldrip Superintendent of Schools DR. RICK REEDY Assistant to the Superintendent and Board KERI MILLER Deputy Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction DR. DEBRA NELSON Deputy Superintendent of Business and Operations RICHARD WILKINSON Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services DOUG ZAMBIASI Executive Director of Communications & Community Relations SHANA WORTHAM Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources DR. LINDA BASS Executive Director of Student Services RICK BURNETT Executive Director of Technology and Media Services MELISSA FOUCHE Assistant Superintendent for Program Evaluation and Information Services DR. MIKE WALDRIP

6 Enrollment Numbers Continue To Climb Because many families are choosing to plant roots in the Frisco area, Frisco ISD is at the top of the fastest growing school districts in the state and nation. Student enrollment as of January 6, 2012, reached 40,233, representing an increase of 2,792 additional students compared to the same time last year. Growth Facts As of January 6, 2012, Frisco Independent School District includes: 21,763 elementary students 9,107 middle school students 9,363 high school students. Frisco ISD on the Grow According to data, FISD is the highest growth district in the state among districts with more than 5,000 students. FISD enrollment from through increased an incredible 2,289 percent, according to American School and University Magazine reports...the largest increase in the nation in districts with 20,000-40,000 students. In overall student gain by enrollment, FISD added more students than any other district in the state last year. FISD is currently the 26th largest school district in the state; using data, FISD is the 172nd largest district in the nation.

7 Student Population Facts According to PEIMS Snapshot data issued to the state, FISD reported the following: STUDENT DIVERSITY: % White 15.11% Hispanic % African American %Asian.58 % American Indian/Alaskan Native.12 % Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander 2.76 % are two or more races 59 Languages served in Frisco ISD 12.3 % are economically disadvantaged Bilingual and ESL student enrollment 4.5 % Gifted and Talented student enrollment 7.2 % Special Education student enrollment 9.0 % Career and Technical Education enrollment 14 % 3,442 Kindergarten students 1,999 Seniors According to AEIS reports, FISD reports the following: Attendance Rate 96.8 % Dropout Rate.2 % (7 th -12 th grades) Completion Rate 98.8 % (Based on Class of 2010) Advanced Course/Dual Enrollment Completion 33.5 % 30.4 % take Advanced Placement exams 77.3 % who take the AP exam score a 3 or better Core class size averages students ACT average test score 23.3 SAT average test score % of students take one or more college entrance exams About 90 % of Frisco graduates plan to further their education Majority of Frisco ISD high school students involved in extra-curricular activities NOTE: DATA BASED ON OR AEIS REPORTS, ACCORDING TO MOST RECENT AVAILABILITY Student Population

8 Strengthening Our Academic Muscles for the 21st Century FISD is committed to academic excellence this commitment applies to what we do every day. We are very proud of the District s 15 National Merit Semifinalists but we also rejoice when the student who is struggling to read or master mathematics meets a new goal or has a major breakthrough. FISD s test scores continue to improve and are well above state and national averages, but the District is looking more closely at individual student performance to make sure all needs are met from the student who is struggling to the student who needs to be challenged more fully with rigorous curriculum. Our curriculum team works diligently to develop instructional tools that put all FISD teachers on the same page with educational goals and lesson plans regardless of campus. Curriculum is regularly reviewed, updated, and improved. What role do I play on my student s team? The core curriculum focuses on the basic building blocks of learning. And it is a team effort involving the faculty, family and student. At FISD we pride ourselves on our view that everyone - from the teacher to the custodian - can impact a child s learning experience in a positive way. FISD is working to help parents become more familiar with what their child is learning at school. Some of our more recent efforts at various campuses include: Parent coffees with math instructors to discuss today s math vocabulary and implementation. Podcasts to assist parents with understanding homework. After-hour tutorials for parents and students. s from campuses to remind parents of upcoming tests and assignments. Meeting with parents and students at local apartment complexes for homework clubs. Re-emphasizing the importance of spelling with an elementary toolkit designed to help parents study with their students. This is especially important in an era when students sometimes learn to text before they write a sentence. How does FISD determine success? Approximately 75 percent of FISD seniors take one or more college entrance exams. Approximately 90 percent of our graduating seniors plan to continue their education at college, technical school or in the military. The graduating classes continue to earn more than $20.5 million in scholarships annually to further their education at some of the best universities in the state and nation. Our District is currently ranked Exemplary by the Texas Education Agency. FISD has 33 Exemplary campuses and the remaining are ranked Recognized. FHS and CHS have received the College Readiness Award from the Texas ACT Council. FISD is home to a 2011 Global Destination ImagiNation winning team from Smith Elementary. Students and parents during a Homework Club meeting. Our instructors are bringing 21st century learning to the classroom by incorporating technology into traditional assignments. FISD middle school and high school students are encouraged to bring their electronic devices to school for specific learning opportunities. FISD has produced multiple Academic Decathlon teams that have placed in the state s top ten. Academic Excellence ABOVE: Smith Elementary Destination ImagiNation Global Winners. The team, together for five years, competed at the International Globals in Knoxville, Tennessee, where they won first place and a Renaissance Award. LEFT: Elementary student enjoys ipad demonstration night, designed to let students show parents how they use technology in the classroom.

9 A Christie Elementary student shares her love of reading with these very youngest FISD students at the Early Childhood School. Christie students volunteered their time as part of a field trip to their neighboring school. Elementary Elementary students participate in special programs including physical education, for life-long health, along with, music and art, for life-long appreciation. The elementary level (full day K-5 and half-day qualifying pre-k) also provides opportunities for leadership training through student council, safety patrols, environmental green teams, choir and other activities. Special programs services are provided on home campuses or through centralized programming and include Gifted Instruction, Special Education, ESL/Bilingual, Dyslexia, Head Start and Accelerated Reading Instruction. Full-time counselors, nurses and librarians are also on each campus. After-school childcare is offered at elementary schools through partnerships with Alpha Best and YMCA. Spanish Schoolhouse and other groups utilize our schools after hours for enrichment activities. Middle School At the middle school level (grades 6-8), academic teaming is used and students can take advantage of many opportunities to excel that may include the Duke University Talent Search, Math/Science Competition, Pre-Advanced Placement courses, UIL academic competition, Mock Trial, Band, Choir, Art, Theatre Arts, Robotics, Video Production, National Junior Honor Society, Student Council, Teen Leadership, Athletics, Yearbook, Academic Pentathlon, among others. ABOVE: Middle school students gather at Griffin for Minute To Get It, a day of science and fun. LEFT: These Gifted and Talented Staley students have joined their class in writing colleges throughout the nation to request items for college week displays. High School At the high school level (grades 9-12), students have numerous opportunities to excel academically and in extra-curricular activities. More and more Advanced Placement courses are being offered, with current high school offerings that include Language and Composition, Literature and Composition, Computer Science A, US History, Government, Macroeconomics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics C, Calculus AB/BC, Art Studio, Drawing, Design 2D/3D, Art History, Spanish Language and Literature; French, German, Music Theory, European History, Environmental Science, Human Geography, World History, Psychology and Statistics. Dual credit classes are offered in conjunction with Collin College for certain courses; Tech Prep courses are also available. The Independent Study Mentorship Program is offered for qualifying juniors and seniors, enabling them to explore careers through a community mentor, preparing a portfolio and an end-of-course project. To encourage students to take advanced courses and take the AP exams, FISD will partially reimburse students who make a 3,4,and 5. LEFT: Students at FISD s Studio 08 Restaurant, located in the Career and and Technical Center, demonstrate their skills for Chef Jennifer Gause-Prestridge in the restaurant's state-of-the-art kitchen.

10 Equation For Continued Success Community Support Plus Financial Accountability In June 2011, the Frisco ISD Board of Trustees approved an operating budget of $293.5 million for the district, which includes recapture obligation and $11 million for flowthrough Teacher Retirement System On-Behalf payment, and TIF flow through funds. A maintenance and operations tax rate of $1 and an interest and sinking tax rate of 42 cents were approved in September. This is a total tax rate of $1.42 per $100 of taxable valuation. The district previously added its own internal controls service consultant to analyze, improve and assess our financial practices. About 85 percent of the annual operating budget is payroll, as education is a people-intensive business. FISD s instructional expenditure ratio is percent. Financial Fast Facts Since the inception of the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas nine years ago, FISD has maintained a superior rating, the highest achievement possible within this system. The operating expenditure per student in FISD is $7,351. According to the 2010 Census, the FISD geographical population is 163,063 with 60,629 total housing units. Data from American Community Survey The median household income within FISD is $100, % of persons living within FISD are high school graduates or have received higher education 58.8% have a bachelor s degree or higher The average home value in FISD at this time is over $260,158 Financial Accountability According to AEIS Report Local taxes provide 56.9% of general fund revenue with 37.2% coming from the state and 5.9% coming from other local and intermediate sources 73.4% of the FISD tax base is residential

11 Educators Reasons Frisco ISD Attracts the Best Competitive Salaries Quality insurance and health benefits Professional Development Opportunities Beginning Teacher Academy for new teachers Beginning teacher salary is $46,000 Mentor Program for teachers new to Frisco ISD Tuition reimbursement for seeking advanced degrees (Master s Degree Only) Extended Leave Plan Sick Leave Bank 401 (a) matching plan FISD Child Care Facility Frisco Education Foundation teaching grants and scholarship program Partnership with Frisco Athletic Center and YMCA for an employee wellness program Partners in Education program with area businesses Housing/relocation assistance through area realtors Active Parental Involvement and Community Support Educational resources Opportunity for advancement, leadership FISD Attracts Top Employees FISD is a great place to work. Just ask the 5,100 dedicated individuals who make up the FISD family. Whether a high school math teacher or a cafeteria worker, FISD strives to hire the best person for the job, one who cares about the students. With that as a continuous focus, Frisco ISD is dedicated to attracting and retaining people who want to grow with our district, representing a diversified group of top educators highly qualified, certified teachers; gifted new teachers; and seasoned, experienced teachers. The percentage of FISD s teaching staff with advanced degrees is 24.8 percent, and 60.2 percent of the teachers have six or more years experience, with the average years of teaching experience at 8.9 years, 4.5 of those years in FISD. The FISD is among the largest single employers in the area.

12 Well-Designed Facilities Enhance Educational Journey Frisco continues to be the fastest growing district in the nation and state. In light of our strong building programs, it is imperative that we build well-designed campuses in a cost-effective manner. Years ago, a committee of concerned citizens and educators met to determine how to make Frisco schools the best for our students. Frisco was still small at the time, and the committee agreed that part of educational success comes from participation and inclusion, along with the ability to build relationships. It was at that time the Frisco School Board committed to build mid-sized schools that would offer more students more opportunities. Smaller schools allow more students to be involved in activities and allows more meaningful relationships to develop between students and teachers as well as among peers. Elementary schools are built to accommodate 760 students; middle schools serve 800-1,000 students and high schools are built to serve between 1,500 and 1,800 students. Elementary school enrollment can rise to 860 before a new school opens to provide relief; 1,125 at the middle school level and 2,100 at the high school level. Today, the district is implementing plans for high school additions, built as each school reaches capacity. The additions expand a high school's capacity to 2,000-2,100. These additions save significant construction and operating funds and continue to meet the goal of having smaller schools, while also providing stability. The first addition is already complete at Centennial High School with expansions at Wakeland and Liberty high schools due for completion this summer. Construction will begin this summer on additions at both Heritage High School and Frisco High School. Expanding capacity at each high school is the equivalent of an additional high school. Through bond funds, Frisco ISD has monies to serve up to 52,000 students: allowing for about 40 elementary schools, 14 middle schools and 7-8 high schools. Funds are also available to purchase school sites (FISD has 20 sites available for construction at this time), maintain and renovate existing campuses, maintain security, expand and upgrade technology. Frisco ISD works with award-winning school architects to provide well-designed facilities. The decision to build prototype elementary and middle schools has been a cost-saving strategy and has insured students district-wide share a common experience. Even though more than one design has been used, most have been built multiple times minimizing design costs. Designs are also energy-efficient, utilizing geo-thermal technology, the city s green building guidelines and drought tolerant landscaping. Geo-thermal and energy recovery ventilation technology has been utilized by the district since Current construction projects include three elementary schools (Comstock, Nichols and Phillips) and one middle school (Vandeventer), all scheduled for opening in August This summer, construction will begin on Frisco s seventh high school, Independence High School, scheduled for opening in August 2014, and located on Independence, north of Main. All FISD schools in the OnCor service area are retrofitted with energy efficient high bay lighting in gyms and other areas. This retrofit has significantly lowered electricity bills. All FISD buildings have been retrofitted with 25 watt fluorescent bulbs that will result in $40,000 to $50,000 in savings per month. In addition, FISD has received more than $61,000 in rebates from OnCor Electric and over $450,000 from CoServ Electric because of these energy efficient efforts. Facilities

13 SCHOOLS 30 elementary schools with three opening in 2012 (Comstock, Phillips, Nichols) Early Childhood School 12 middle schools with one opening in 2012 (Vandeventer) 6 high schools, with one (Independence High School) opening in 2014 Career and Technical Education Center State-of-the art facility that centralizes advanced programs for juniors and seniors Alternative programs Student Opportunity Center (SOC) for secondary students Acker KEYS (Keeping Every Youth Successful) for elementary/early middle school students SUPPORT FACILITIES Laura Ellison Child Development Center Frisco ISD Administration Building Memorial Stadium and Athletic Offices Career and Technical Education Center Includes administrative offices, Frisco Education Foundation, Board meeting room and training facilities Maple Street Complex Includes SOC and an Administrative Annex, which houses the FISD Tax office and technology Sam Carter Service Center II, Service Center I Transportation Center, Transportation West Facility FISD athletic facilities include: Memorial Stadium Dr. Pink Field/FC Dallas Stadium FISD Natatorium Dr Pepper Arena expansion now used for graduation, convocation and other events Blueprint of Attendance Zones Adjusted as Growth Continues Building for FISD s unprecedented growth requires a blueprint of its own. It requires both long and short-term planning and balanced responsible management of time, money and resources. Growth means attendance zone boundaries must be adjusted to ease overcrowding and accommodate new school facilities. FISD has developed a number of decisionmaking processes to deal with rezoning issues. DEMOGRAPHIC STUDIES: FISD employs in-house demographers, as well as an experienced outside consulting group, to monitor growth in neighborhoods, new construction and population trends. ATTENDANCE ZONE CRITERIA: As staff develops the proposed plans, they take into consideration issues of student stability, effective utilization of space, proximity to the school, diversity of the student body and unity in the community. No one factor is more important than another in this process of formulating zones. PARENT INPUT: Parents who live in areas where rezoning is being considered may call, write, or input following the presentation of draft options to the school board. Administrative staff will relay any communication received. Parents may also sign up to address the board at the following meeting. A final decision is made after the board has heard both parent and administrative input. The entire process takes approximately three months, and is usually in November/December/January. SPLITTING ATTENDANCE ZONES: It is not the most desirable situation, but in a fast-growth area trying to balance enrollments at schools, it is sometimes the case that students of one attendance zone at the elementary level may be assigned to different middle schools. Likewise, students at a middle school are sometimes assigned to different high schools. For additional information, zoning maps, and news friscoisd.org/zones

14 Transportation FISD buses on the road again, and again Daily, the department transports more than 6,638 students 213 buses and 148 support vehicles Buses traveled over 1,896,050 miles last year 249 Transportation employees 115 Crossing Guards 275,117 gallons of diesel fuel used per year 67,966 gallons of unleaded fuel used per year 8,487 Field trips Transportation services the district from three stations: West, Stadium and Rolater Frisco ISD conducts emergency school bus evacuation training at every elementary campus each fall. All drivers are highly trained, and are CPR and First Aid certified. Every bus is equipped with security cameras and Child Find systems FISD buses transport more than 6,638 students daily.

15 Did you know? Each school year, Frisco ISD students consume: over 2 million pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables over 1 million pounds of chicken products over 700,000 wheat hamburger buns over 700,000 whole wheat rolls over 250,000 pounds of beef products over 150,000 pounds of cheese over 15,000 loaves of bread FISD s Child Nutrition Department Meets Healthier US School Challenge All FISD elementary schools recently received USDA s bronze medal for meeting the requirements of a Healthier US School. Menu changes that included additional fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains were implemented. Each school s efforts to increase the physical activity of their students were also documented. Child Nutrition Keeps Healthy Eating on Track More than 37,000 meals...that s just another day in Frisco ISD s 50 cafeterias where preparing healthy and delicious meals from scratch for over 40,000 students is second nature. FISD s award winning Child Nutrition Program prides itself on being a leader in the state among other school districts with its ability to anticipate and meet the needs of Frisco ISD consumers. Each year, Child Nutrition s 400 employees receive state and nationally approved training in food safety, food preparation, safe work habits, and customer service. In addition, all school café supervisors are certified in food safety. The Child Nutrition Program is part of two federal programs the National School Lunch Program and the National School Breakfast Program. It is financially self-sustaining. Child Nutrition is also a major part of the district s effort to teach healthy eating habits. Members of the program work with educators to help students learn about nutrition and exercise as part of a life-long lifestyle. In an effort to provide healthy meals, members of the Child Nutrition Program develop menus that exceed nutritional requirements for appropriate age groups, bake whole wheat rolls from scratch, offer fresh fruit and vegetable choices daily, and use only whole grain pasta. To make sure every student starts his/her day off right, a hot breakfast is offered daily at each campus. Child Nutrition Parents Can Tour Virtual Café Parents can tour a virtual café to help decide what to order in the cafeteria. Go to to explore the online Nutri-Café cyber experience. The site provides a virtual view of the school cafeteria, actual food items offered, and pricing information. Parents may create a meal by placing items on a virtual tray and comparing the nutritional values versus the USDA recommended daily allowances. All parts of the Child Nutrition Program are automated: (1) Each student s meal account is managed by a point-ofsale software system that includes FISD parents ability to monitor their children s meal accounts; (2) Families needing meal assistance may apply online for benefits; (3) Menus are planned with an advanced food production software system that analyzes each meal for a variety of nutrients; and (4) Purchasing the food needed to prepare those meals is also fully automated, along with the control of food and non-food inventories.

16 fine arts FISD Strikes the Right Notes with Fine Arts FISD provides opportunities for students to explore a myriad of disciplines, including the arts. The district provides art and music classes from elementary through high school. In middle school, students are given the opportunity to study visual arts, choral music, drama, orchestral music, or join the band. A harp program is also in place. In high school, dance is also an option, as are Advanced Placement Art classes. Drama students participate in UIL competition and the band, choir and orchestra teachers provide students with top quality music instruction and competitive contests that often lead to students pursuing music as a career. It is not unusual to find FISD fine arts students achieving statewide recognition in competitions. Art Smarts Centennial High School Band takes third at state competition and Wakeland High School Band takes seventh place. Two student harpists chosen for All-State Orchestra Savanna Todd of Frisco High School and Courtney Erbes of Wakeland. Three other FISD orchestra students have also been chosen for All-State Orchestra. They are: Jonathan Kim, viola, of Liberty High School; Troy Tippawang, bass, of Lone Star High School; and Abby Fuchs, violin, of Heritage High School. Frisco ISD student art showcased at Tribeca Apartment Complex in Plano. The Pink Elementary School Honor Choir performed at the Texas Music Educators Association Convention in February. Clark Middle School Symphonic Band honored at TMEA Convention for finishing second in the state in the CC Honor Band Contest. The Pink Elementary School Honor Choir was invited to perform at the Texas Music Educators Association Convention in February Wakeland Senior Bailey Carver (top photo) won Best of Show with her entry ʻSunset on a Era The Railway in Frisco,ʼ when FISD artists were showcased in Plano last spring. The painting featured in the second photo is ʻPeaceful Life,ʼ a collaborative effort by several young artists from Mooneyham Elementary.

17 Spectrum of Sports FISD believes a healthy body supports a healthy mind. Physical education begins in elementary school, where each school has a certified P.E. teacher and aide to help instill a love of physical activity in each child. FISD students excel in competition, often advancing to state competition. HIGHLIGHTS SPRING 2011 WHS Girls Soccer State Champs FHS Girls Swimming State Champs CHS Softball Regional Finalist CHS Wrestler Vanessa Smith State Champion Ashley Thompson FHS State Runner Up in Pole Vault HIGHLIGHTS FALL 2011 WHS Cross Country Runner Maddie Zimmerman Regional Champion and 6th at State LHS Cross Country Runner Brady Turnbull Regional Champion and State Runner Up Secondary schools offer fitness training and a variety of competitive sports for both boys and girls including: Football Basketball Volleyball Track and Field Soccer Wrestling Baseball Softball Tennis Cross Country Swimming and Diving Powerlifting Golf

18 Hendrix Earns Crest Award Cheryl Hendrix, counselor at Boals Elementary School, is the first FISD Counselor to receive the Crest Award an award given to counseling programs based on the accomplishments of individual campus counseling programs. The award, presented by the Texas School Counselor Association, is based on the counselor s dedication to effective communication and commitment to obtaining results. Turner Media Specialist Finalist Tammy Turner, library media specialist at Scoggins Middle School was named one of three finalists for TCEA (Texas Computer Education Agency) Library Media Specialist of the Year and will receive a monetary award. The award recognizes a Texas certified librarian who actively promotes the integration of technology in the library media center and works collaboratively with administrators, teachers, and students to promote and support the integration of technology throughout the curriculum. Wilson Garners Regional Coach of the Year Honors Meagan Wilson, girls soccer coach at Wakeland High School, has been named the 2011 NSCAA Region VI Large Public School Coach of the Year and a finalist for the national honor. She was chosen based on her achievements at Frisco Wakeland High School last year and the support of fellow coaches in the region. The Wakeland girls were 2011 state soccer champions. Wilson is also the District 18-4A Coach of the Year, the Dallas Morning News Coach of the Year, the All-State Senior Showcase Coach, and the VYPE Magazine Coach of the Year. Lindsey Receives Top Music Educator Award Fowler Middle School orchestra director, Karina Lindsey received the 2012 Texas Chapter American String Association s Marjorie Keller Outstanding Young Music Educator Award. Purefoy Principal Attends Harvard Leadership Program Mary Webb, principal at Purefoy Elementary School, attended the Principal's Center at the Harvard Graduate School of Education through the Raise Your Hand Texas leadership program. Webb was part of the Improving Schools: The Art of Leadership program, June 26-July 2. Stafford Named Person of the Year The June copy of Frisco Style featured Sue Stafford, longtime Frisco resident and teacher. Stafford was honored as Person of the Year by the magazine at a reception May 31 at the Frisco Heritage Center Depot. Stafford came to teach in Frisco during the 1970s and is currently a teacher at the Acker KEYS. In addition to her love of education, Stafford is known for her dedication to helping others in need. An FISD middle school is named in her honor. CTE Chef Finds Recipe for Success Chef Katie Garms of the Frisco CTE Center won the Original Pancake House Good Neighbor Award for GDRA Texas ProStart Educators in November. The GDRA initiated this award to recognize a GDRA Texas ProStart educator who goes above and beyond to help fellow educators and the community. The philanthropic spirit and "Associates First" philosophy made OPH a natural partner in presenting this honor. Bar Association Honors CTE s Ewald Ben Ewald of the Career and Technical Education Center was named 2011 High School Law-Related Education Teacher of the Year by the American Bar Association. He has been largely responsible for the creation of Frisco ISD s legal curriculum, such as Mock Trial, Constitution Law and Civil Law. Zimmerman Scores Double Goal Galen Zimmerman, Athletic Director and Football Coach at Frisco s Liberty High School, was awarded the North Texas Double-Goal Coach Award from Positive Coaching Alliance-Dallas for his positive impact on youth athletes in May of The Double-Goal Coach Award is named for coaches whose first goal is winning, and whose second, more-important goal is teaching life lessons through sports. Points of Pride

19 Marie Rossmann Named Top AP Dr. Marie Rossmann, assistant principal at Hunt Middle School, was named Texas Assistant Principal of the Year at the NASSP (National Association of Secondary School Principals) Conference in Washington D.C. in April of During the conference, she had the opportunity for a one-on-one meeting with Senator John Cornyn, Congressman Michael Burgess, and Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison s staff. She was also honored with a Congressional Record honor from Burgess. Kevin Feng on Elite Math Honor Roll Kevin Feng of Fowler Middle School was one of a select group of students to make the AMC Texas Achievement Roll for math this school year. He was selected based on his score on the AMC 8 test. This middle school test and high school versions of the test help identify math talent and can be life altering in terms of educational opportunities. Competing against over 150,000 5th - 8th grade students from all over the world, Feng correctly answered 24 of the 25 questions tested. Feng s score easily places him in the top 1% behind only 284 students worldwide who obtained perfect scores, according to Chantelle Elliott, Coordinator of Secondary Mathematics for FISD. FISD Elementary Students Help Save Lives Jesus Lara of Taylor Elementary rescued a baby from the bottom of a pool at a neighborhood gathering during the summer of The child was resuscitated and Jesus was heralded in the media for his quick response. (Right) He was also honored with a plaque from the Plano Chapter of the Sons of the American Legion at a celebration at Taylor Elementary when school resumed. (Left) Adriana Daddino of Ashley Elementary was honored by emergency rescue personnel in May for her quick thinking when her mother experienced a serious asthma attack. She called 911 and was able to tell emergency personnel where her father worked. Two FISD Bands Compete at State The Centennial High School Marching Band took third place at state competition in the fall of 2011 at San Antonio with its field performance entitled Queen of Hearts. Wakeland High School Band also went to state and placed seventh in the competition. This was Wakeland's second appearance at state, placing fourth in Both bands put on wonderful performances in a field of Texas top 10 4A bands and the competition was fierce. At the end of the day, Centennial was the Bronze Medal Winner, taking third place, while Wakeland earned 7th place. FHS, CHS Earn College Readiness Awards Frisco High School and Centennial High School have both received the 2011 College Readiness Award from the Texas ACT Council. The award is given to schools for increasing the number of students taking the ACT over the last five years and for significantly increasing their level of achievement and college readiness. Chamber Honors West, Pearson The Frisco Independent School District congratulates very good friends honored at the 2011 Frisco Chamber of Commerce Awards gala. The newest Citizen of the Year is Roach Middle School teacher and former Frisco City Council Member Joy West, and Silver Citizen is former FISD School Board Member Charlie Pearson. Pearson served the school district faithfully from FISD Boasts Five Honor Roll Schools Frisco boasts five 2011 Texas Business & Education Coalition Honor Roll Schools. They are Borchardt Elementary, Fisher Elementary, Fowler Middle School, Griffin Middle School, and Smith Elementary School. Texas Lawyers Honor LeBlanc Patience LeBlanc of Liberty High School received the Texas Lawyers Auxiliary Teacher of the Year Award this past October. This award honors public and private high school teachers in Texas who have made significant contributions in law-related education, developing and supporting programs which enhance awareness of legal rights and the American legal system. All Six FISD Academic Teams Qualify for State All six Frisco ISD high school Academic Decathlon teams qualified for state competition in Lone Star High took third place in small-school regional competition. At medium-sized school regional competition, the additional five FISD schools all placed within the top 25 schools to earn a trip to state competition as well. Frisco ISD hosted the medium-sized school regional competition at Centennial High School in January. Anderson Named Healthy Zone School in Training Anderson Elementary School, an FISD campus located in Plano, has been named a Healthy Zone School in Training, through a grant from the Cooper Institute. In the photo, Anderson second grade students are practicing exercise techniques, part of the school s emphasis on developing healthy habits. LEADING THE WAY CTE teachers Ken Strong, right, and Chris Patterson, were named National Master Teachers by Project Lead The Way, a curriculum that focuses on strengthening science and engineering education. Strong teaches Introduction to Engineering Design, Civil Engineering and Architecture, and Engineering Design and Development, and Patterson teaches Aerospace Engineering, Principles of Engineering, and Digital Electronics.

20 FISD Counselors Meeting the Needs of Students, Parents and Teachers Counselors support parents, teachers, students and the community. Their efforts focus around three strands of guidance: (1) academic success (2) college/career information, and (3) personal/social development. That includes: Listening Developing student schedules Elementary counselors hold group activities to help students with friendship building, study skills, and classroom behavior Monitoring student test scores, graduation requirements, and signs of dropping grades, attendance problems, or suspicion of problems with bullying, substance abuse or peer pressure Preparing teachers, students, and parents for the new STAAR (State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness) end of course testing Information about the new form of standardized testing and how it will be implemented in FISD is available on the Guidance and Counseling home page of Reaching out to parents and students through speakers and seminars on a variety of topics such as college readiness, cyber bullying, depression and suicide Promoting a variety of character education programs, Olweus bullying prevention, and support of programs such as the parent-initiated One Voice project Crisis intervention Identify students who are in need of academic help, social services and or mentoring Counselor Sarah Colquitt, as Captain Kindness, prepares to surprise students. In addition to campus counselors, two Student Assistance Coordinators and two Parental Support Coordinators offer support to campuses, students and parents with information to deal with challenges such as peer pressure, drops in grades, parenting issues, transitioning to new schools, suspicion of substance abuse, and college information, among other issues. FISD COUNSELORS We believe every student has the need to feel Cared for, Capable and Connected Counseling During any given week an FISD counselor may meet with a student whose school life is being adversely impacted by divorce, a death in the family, domestic violence, serious illness, self harm, behavior, bullying, drugs or alcohol, sexual harassment, unhealthy relationships, depression, mental health, homelessness or legal concerns. During one recent six week period in October and November, the FISD counselors reported a combined tally of 3,554 sessions across the district dealing with one of these topics.

21 THE SPECIAL TOUCH The Frisco ISD Department of Special Education Services provides a comprehensive educational program to students age 3-22 who have disabilities and a need for special education. 3,635 students were receiving special education services at the end of October 2011, reflecting an 11 percent increase from the previous year. 266 teachers, in addition to Speech Pathologists, Adapted PE Teachers, Vision Teachers, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, and In-Home/Parent Trainers provide services to students. Educational Diagnosticians, School Psychologists, Behavior Specialists and Instructional Facilitators support the efforts of campus personnel. PHILOSOPHY Frisco ISD believes in educating students in the least restrictive environment. Following evaluation and committee assessment, students who meet criteria for special education services are placed accordingly. Students spend varying amounts of time in general education classrooms and special education settings, depending on their needs. Initial consideration is given to provision of services in the general education environment to the greatest extent possible. Special education services are available at each campus, as well as district wide instructional/related services. Students may receive their services while in full-time placement in the general education classroom or in a pull-out service setting. Services are individually determined for each student, based on which instructional environment ensures educational benefit. A high percentage of students receiving special education services attend their home campus. Sibshop Night Helps Families Bond These two siblings of a student with autism make a time capsule at a meeting of Sibshop, a program put on through FISD to assist families with a night out of fun and bonding. A group of dedicated FISD volunteers made up of teachers, parents and sometimes volunteer student groups, hosts Sibshop night once a month for some special FISD families. Sibshop was originally developed through the Sibling Support Project for eight-to thirteen-year-old siblings of children with developmental disabilities. According to information from the Sibling Support Project, the Sibshop model is easily adapted for slightly younger and older children. It has been adapted for brothers and sisters of children with other special needs, including cancer, hearing impairments, epilepsy, emotional disturbances, and HIV-positive status. Sibshops have also been adapted for use with children who have lost a family member. We get together with the kids and let them play some active games and then do some quiet activities. It is a time for them to make friends who understand what it is like to go places and have people not understand their sibling s behavior, Liberty High School Special Education teacher, Julia Chalker says. Sibshop is conducted on the same night as the Parent Training meetings and activities are also provided for the family s special education student to make scheduling the activity easier for families. Special Education Services

22 Safe Schools Mean Safe Students Frisco ISD understands the importance of safety in providing students with an effective learning environment. We recognize parents, and the community at large, want to know our children are safe, making it a high priority for FISD. In the last two bond packages, safety was featured prominently for the inclusion of cameras and double-door, keyless entries on campuses. School Resource Officers The best investment in safety, however, is people. FISD staffs schools with regard to the ratio of adults to students and attempts to keep schools small enough to foster relationships and increase the ability of students to become involved. If students build relationships with other students and adults in the building, they are more likely to confide in someone if harmful activities are being discussed or taking place. At the secondary schools, school resource officers (SRO), community police officers in the schools, are visible and are also building relationships with students. The SROs are also available to build a community relationship with students at the elementary level. At the high schools, parking attendants help monitor for suspicious activity or persons. Currently the SROs deliver the DARE program at 6th grade and work with the rest of the Frisco Police Department and the Fire Department to produce the Shattered Dreams program each year, demonstrating the dangers of drinking and driving. Preparing for Real World Threats in Real World Time Situational Awareness For Emergency Response (S.A.F.E.R.) is a joint partnership between the City of Frisco and the FISD. Simply put, SAFER allows police and fire and school officials to speak the same language, creating a SAFER environment for all FISD students and employees. This unique program gives Frisco firefighters, EMTs and police officers immediate access to school building information -- including real time video while heading to campus emergencies at any of the district s 52 schools. SAFER was implemented in Using MDCs (Mobile Data Computers), Frisco s first responders can view school floor plans, campus photos taken inside and out and aerial maps plus lists of onsite hazardous chemicals, contact information for school administrators and live video of hallways and common areas. This innovative tool is available to firefighters and police officers with a touch of a screen or click of a mouse from inside their squad cars, fire trucks and ambulances. It allows first responders to begin planning how to handle the emergency even before they arrive at the school. Saving time can mean saving lives and property. Safety Town Frisco ISD also partners with the City of Frisco utilizing Safety Town, a hands-on program with the Frisco Fire Department, teaching children how to prevent accidents, react to severe weather situations, increase safe behavior in their community, and prepare for disaster, along with lessons on bike/pedestrian safety and stranger danger. Safety First FISD Safety at a Glance Crisis management plans and teams at each campus Resource officers at each secondary campus are part of a city-school partnership (SRO at each High School and one SRO for every two Middle Schools) Police officers available at athletic and after-hours events Campuses regularly conduct and practice safety drills Crossing Guards, another win-win partnership between the cities and school district Access control systems at each campus to screen persons for entry to buildings Visitor registration screening for Registered Sex Offenders at every campus Raptor Radio communication for administrators and staff Criminal history searches on all employees, volunteers and contractors who work on district property K-9 interdiction services at unannounced times on secondary campuses Digital surveillance inside and outside schools ChooseToCare anonymous web-based tip-line Safe-school surveys to monitor safety needs District employs a full-time Security Director Trauma and grief counseling to students, staff and families in need Leader in implementing random drug testing for athletes, which now includes random testing for steroids Automated External Defibrillator and portable oxygen units are available at each school (mounted and portable) Cameras and double-door, keyless entries to campuses FISD Administrators and staff receive training in Emergency Management and Incident Command Training FISD facilities are equipped with a keyless entry system that controls and audits access in the buildings. ABOVE: Safety Town is a hands-on program that teaches children how to prevents accidents. BELOW: Elementary students participate in a severe weather safety drill.

23 Energy Efficiency Programs Evident Throughout District FISD s efforts to go green can be seen all across the district. Energy efficiency programs include: The Enviromatics Reliable Controls System utilizes central control of mechanical and electrical systems as well as accurate data used to develop usage plans to maximize energy conservation. All HVAC and exterior lights are controlled from a central system. Frisco ISD has two electrical providers, OnCor and CoServ. Both have rebate programs that return money to the district for energy efficiency upgrades. All the schools in the OnCor service area have energy efficient fluorescent lights in their gyms and other high bay areas. Energy efficient lighting is being implemented throughout the district as time permits. During the summer of 2011 all of the buildings in Frisco ISD had their 4 foot 32 W fluorescent bulbs replaced with 25 W energy efficient fluorescent bulbs. This reduction in wattage will result in a monthly savings of between 40 and 50 thousand dollars in utility costs. Approximately half of the project was paid for with rebate money from our electrical providers. Other retrofits have resulted in thousands of dollars of rebates per campus. Newer schools with energy efficient designs have also been awarded rebate money based on their design. FISD has several built-in policies that are green, such as the transportation department s no-idle policy for buses and the use of ultra low-sulphur diesel. Custodial employees use hot water cleaning and extraction methods and chemicals which have been identified as reduced toxicity. Maintenance and grounds workers also use safer green products. Use of disposable service ware is kept at a minimum in all FISD school kitchens and plastic, cans and cardboard are recycled. More than one campus is experimenting with composting food waste. Landscaping around FISD buildings is drought tolerant, allowing for less watering. All new FISD buildings are geothermal, which saves money on heating and cooling. And all new construction is designed with energy efficiency in mind. FISD construction also meets the City of Frisco Green Building Program guidelines. Design for maximum use of natural light and use of recycled building materials are also important elements of FISD facility design. Student and staff forms, previously distributed by paper, have been replaced with automated electronic forms and smart workflow. Recycling Green Teams are active at all elementary and middle school campuses. The high schools have environmental science classes. Going Green Frisco ISD students who are taking part in the Chamber of Commerce Young Entrepreneurs Academy visit the Quest Recycling Offices in Frisco. FISD partners with a variety of programs to teach students of all ages about recycling.

24 Technology FISD a Proud Leader in Technology Education Frisco ISD is proud to be a leader in educational technology. Every elementary campus has three computer labs with an additional three student computers in each core classroom. All secondary campuses have both PC and Mac computer labs and laptop carts available. In addition, FISD has distance learning equipment which allows students to take virtual field trips anywhere in the world or collaborate with a classroom across town. In addition, all secondary students are now encouraged to bring their mobile devices to campus to facilitate classroom instruction. FISD teachers have many valuable tools available online, giving them the flexibility to work anywhere a computer is connected to the Internet. Some of the tools include: Curriculum bank which contains lessons developed by the curriculum department Collaborative lesson planner Data analysis for both local and state test information Student information system, which hosts the grade book, attendance, and other informative student data just a click away Classrooms have projectors mounted from the ceiling with integrated sound systems, a full line of educational titles available from streaming video servers, document cameras, wireless keyboards and smart tablets, and student response systems for student interaction and immediate feedback. The Frisco ISD Technology Department also supports the integration of technology by providing facilitators on the campuses for just-in-time teacher support, ongoing training, and to work with teachers to create technology-rich lessons. Technology specialists are available on each campus to help with troubleshooting equipment and to provide support in the computer labs. In Touch FISD wants parents to fully participate in their student s education and wants to be on the cutting edge of technology. The Home Access Center allows secondary parents to go on-line and discover their child s grades, attendance, and to keep up with homework assignments. Parents, students and teachers may also use Home Access Center to communicate issues via . Family Connection provides scholarship and other information for students and families. Websites, marquees, school messenger (phone/ ) are all methods used for additional communication. FISD provides online registration for families as well.

25 LEFT: Mindbender Academy is a science and engineering camp for middle school students, sponsored by key business partners through the Frisco Education Foundation. ABOVE: Presentation of another Grants for Great Ideas left to right, FISD Trustee Anne McCausland, FEF Board Members Jay Young and Marc Kirkland, Grant Winner Michelle Bunyard of Fisher Elementary, FEF Board Member Peter Burns, FISD Trustee Debbie Gillespie and FEF Director Allison Miller. Foundation The Gary Burns Fun Run, held each October, is one of the Foundationʼs key fund-raisers. The event honors Frisco Assistant Fire Chief Gary Burns, who passed away in September Frisco Education Foundation Investing in the Future The Frisco Education Foundation is a not-for-profit 501c3 started in FEF provides financial resources to maximize FISD student potential through educational programs, student scholarships for high school seniors and teachers through innovative Grants for Great Ideas. The board consists of community and corporate leaders. In 1999, ten key investors AT&T, Comstock Resources, Corgan & Associates, CoServ, Exide Technologies, Mario Sinacola & Sons, North Dallas Bank & Trust, OnCor, Rodman Companies, and Southwest Securities contributed the financial resources to establish FEF. To date, the Founding Partners vision in partnership with caring individuals, corporate citizens, civic and school organizations has grown to provide approximately 1,500 seniors with scholarships totaling more than $2 million and awarded teachers over $265,000 in innovative grants. FISD employees contribute approximately $150,000 annually through the payroll deduction program. The annual Chili Challenge is a favorite FEF fall event. In 2011, the Chili Challenge was held in conjunction with Frisco Nation, a special multicultural night. BELOW: A Stafford student performs at Frisco Nation.

26 Community Involvement Helps Drive FISD Success The success of FISD and its students is dependent on community support and involvement. Among these efforts are: Citizen Bond Committees have proposed needed funds and projects and helped educate voters for all bond issues. There are 13,295 volunteers serving FISD FISD partners with the city and corporate community. FC Dallas Stadium is one example. The partnership with the city, the county, and Hunt Sports Group yielded a world-class soccer/football facility and additionally provided Dr. Pink Field for our students. Trustees entered into an agreement with the city and Hicks Sports Group for expansion and use of Dr Pepper Arena, that provides a venue for graduations, convocation and other special events. The district has district level committees on which citizens serve and have an impact on the district s progress in the areas of District Improvement, Diversity, Health Education and the Citizen s Facility Naming Committee. School Business Partners campuses need time, talent, and energy and perhaps the occasional monetary donation for a special program. But the primary aim of the business partnership is in providing a ready source of energetic volunteers and to build relationships with the community. Currently banks, restaurants, clothing stores, insurance offices, churches, veterinarians, medical professionals, and other business people are involved in our schools. Mentorship Programs FISD has several different models of mentoring programs. Some are district-wide and some are specific to a campus. For example, St. Phillip's Episcopal sponsors The Bright Zone at Bright Elementary for at-risk students. In addition, professionals throughout the area mentor top high school students in Independent Mentorship Studies, a year-long project based on specific career interests. FISD staff members throughout the district are active in civic organizations such as Rotary, YMCA, Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce, Heritage Association of Frisco, and numerous non-profit charities. Each year, hundreds of faculty and staff volunteer their time and resources to give back to the community and help support the families of FISD. It is not unusual to see FISD staff and students volunteering at clothing drives, school supply collections, food pantries, or community events that benefit students. The annual holiday angel tree program alone provided for more than 1,600 FISD angels in Each FISD school, through the efforts of students, staff and parents, also conducts annual food drives benefiting Frisco Family Services, making FISD the one of the largest contributors to the food pantry according to Pantry Manager Blake Ball. Ball also said FISD traditionally contributes more than 100,000 pounds of food annually. Wakeland football players help load bicycles during the Small World angel tree program that provided for more than 1,600 FISD angels this year. A 31-year tradition at Frisco ISD is the Holiday Senior Citizen Luncheon that began in Festivities include a holiday meal with all the trimmings and FISD student musical entertainment. Community ABOVE: Current School Board Members Dan Mossakowski and Debbie Gillespie visit with former Board Member Joe Wade during the January Board Appreciation reception, hosted annually by FISD. BELOW: Among the former FISD Board Members who attended this yearʼs reception were, left to right, S.W. Christie, Charlie Pearson, and Billy Gene Phillips. Rotary members delivered coats to the angel program in December, staged at the FISD Transportation West facility. Standing, left to right, are Jill Cumnock and Jennifer Kimble, and seated, are Angela Reed and Kent McQuade, all of the Sunrise Rotary of Frisco. The coat program was a partnership between Sunrise Rotary and Frisco Rotary and marked the third year the groups participated in the Small Worl program. Residents of Frisco Lakes collected these backpacks and back to school items for Bright Elementary. This active adult community adopted Bright this year bringing smiles to many families. Susie Graham, Bright Elementary Principal, Joyce McGrath and Donna Cheatum, residents of Frisco Lakes and Paige Brewer, Bright Assistant Principal, helped sort the many supplies.