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Annual Report
RiverBend Academy 4066
2013-14
Table of Contents
Page # Description
3 Robotics Program Description, School of Rock Article
4 Authorizer Information, Governance, Student Background/Demographics/ Theater Program
5 Staff Information/ Staff Development
6 Program Improvement and Innovation/Strategic Plan Review
7 Community Services and Partnerships
8 Program Challenges
9 Future Plans
10 School Finances
11 Review of 2013-14 Goals
12 2014-2015 Goals/Finance Performance Indicators
13 Academic Best Practices
14 Nonacademic Best Practices
15 Robotics Article/ International Trip/ Archery
16 School Mission, Vision, Values and Location/ School History/ Report Distribution/
Enrollment Information/ NEO information
Appendix A 2013-14 School Board Membership/ School Board Training Report/ Board Member
Biographies
Appendix B 2013-14 Staff Information
Appendix C Testing Data
Appendix D 2013-14 Parent Survey Results
Appendix E School Information
Appendix F RBA Community Partner Awards/Friday Enrichments Offered
Appendix G Management/ Documentation of the Implementation of a Professional Development
Plan for Program Director
Appendix H Application Form
Appendix I World’s Best Workforce Report
FIRST Robotics Special
points of interest:
RBA team created 2011
under name ChaoTech
3747
Joined with LCWM in
2012 and 2013 as Cha-
oTech
Joined with St. Peter and
LCWM in 2014 under
Nordic Storm 3018
Has won three Regional
Championships—2011,
2012, and 2014
Has been to the World
Championships 3 out of 4
seasons
Finished Runner-Up in
their World Championship
division in 2011
Participated in all 3 Min-
nesota State High School
League Championships
which started in 2012
Finished second at the
Minnesota State High
School League Champion-
ships in 2012 and 2014
Won five Regional FIRST
Awards and one FIRST
World Championship
Award
Plans on participating in
VEX Robotics in 2015 as
Kato Public Charter
School
Robotics Team Update
School of Rock Group Rocks RBA and Community
RBA music teacher Amanda
Wirig shook up the music pro-
gram by starting a performance
group called “School of Rock”
titled after the Hollywood film
of the same name. The group
started in the fall and students
with all levels of music could
sign up. The class met during
exploratory and short block
time throughout the year. Stu-
dents practiced and performed
both as a large group and in
small groups or solo acts. The
group performed at Presenta-
tion Night as well as playing a
radio gig at KMSU and a live gig
at a local recording venue. The
performance group was a hit
with both the students and the
community and Amanda is
looking forward to directing this
hardworking talented group of
students next year.
RiverBend Academy 2013-2014 Annual Report
Student Comments
from 2013-14 Survey
Feel free to be
yourself.
Very relaxing and
cool school. Fun
classes and nice
people.
It’s totally Awe-
some!
Stay focused it is
possible to gradu-
ate. Working at
your own pace
allows you to un-
derstand things.
Everybody gets
along pretty well.
You can work at
your own pace.
It's Bully free!
Your going to love
it here.
The class sizes are
smaller.
You can get a lot of
work done.
You get more one
on one help .
Nordic Storm 2013-14 Volume 1, Issue 1
RiverBend Academy’s origi-
nal charter proposal was ap-
proved by the Minnesota
Board of Education (MDE)
and RiverBend has been
sponsored by the MDE since
January 1, 2000. In 2003, a
second charter was granted
covering the years 2003
through 2006. RiverBend
Academy’s third charter was
approved for 2006 through
2009 by the MDE in the
spring of 2006. MDE granted
RiverBend three one-year
extensions to their charter
through the 2011-12 aca-
demic year. As the sponsor,
the Minnesota Department of
Education has conducted pe-
riodic site visits to RiverBend
Academy as well as other
ongoing communications.
RiverBend Academy re-
quested and was granted a
change of Authorizer begin-
ning July 1, 2012.
RiverBend Academy has a
new charter contract for 2012
-2015. RiverBend’s author-
izer is Novation Education
Opportunites (NEO). NEO is
a single purpose authorizer.
Authorizer Information
Governance
parent of a student enrolled
at RiverBend Academy.
Board elections are held on a
rotating basis. All positions
are for two-year terms. The
last election was held in May
of 2014.
The board members for 2013-
2014 are listed in Appendix
A, .
The RiverBend Academy
Board of Directors is made up
of seven members. Four of
the members are licensed
teachers. Two members are
members of the community at
large. The final member is a
Page 4 RiverBend Academy
“I wouldn’t
send my
daughter
anywhere but
RiverBend.”
-RBA Parent
Performances by
the School of Rock
music group..
RBA student has
been a dedicated
golfer for three
seasons .
Student Background/Demographics At RiverBend Academy, 64% of students qualified for free or reduced price lunches in 2013-14.
Of the 88 total students who attended the school for at least part of the 2013-14 academic year,
31 were students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). The student population with
identified special needs was approximately 35% at any given time, which is higher than that of
the local resident district. RBA’s highest enrollment during 2013-2014 never exceeded 72 and
the ADM for the year was 69 students.
Theater Update The RBA Theater Club under the direction of Laurie Putze presented two productions
during the 2013-14 year. In the fall the groups presented “The Canterbury Tales” to
both the student body and in a public performance. In the spring the club presented a
student written and directed play called “The King’s Court”. Another highlight of the
year was the receipt of $1,500 grant to improve the RBA theater program.
The RiverBend Academy staff continued to focus on school and individual im-
provement and enrichment. During the year the staff focused on improved aca-
demic performance and increased enrichment opportunities for the students. The
RBA staff is a dedicated group of professionals who pride themselves on delivering
high quality instruction and project facilitation. Of the six full-time and three part-
time teaching advisors and case managers, five have master’s degrees and four have
licensures in multiple areas. As a group they are dedicated to providing the stu-
dents of RBA an enriching educational experience.
Staff Information
Little Known Facts about the Highly Qualified RBA Staff
-General Education Advisor Claudia Madrigal knows four languages fluently.
-Title I/Librarian Nell Musolf is an award-winning freelance writer for the Mankato Free Press
and Mankato Magazine.
-Art Teacher Allison Roberts is a practicing artist who has done art shows around the area,
taught as adjunct faculty at Minnesota State University Mankato and been awarded several
prestigious art grants.
-General Education Advisor Jim Timmerman has a master’s degree in teaching special educa-
tion.
-Music Teacher Amanda Wirig performs with her band at local venues throughout the area.
-Claudia Madrigal is involved with the Greater Mankato Diversity Council.
Shelly presents the
Jack McGowen
Community
Partnership award to
Sara , the SURGE
Program Coordinator.
Todd with students
at History Fest .
In the spirit of National
Charter School Week,
Claudia serves donuts and
juice to parents first thing in
the morning.
Page 5
Staff Development—Provided to All Teaching Staff
-Continued math training from SCSC
-Vocabulary strategies
-NWEA testing– data study
-Math and Reading interventions
-504 Training
-Project Foundry Training
-Study Island Training
-EdVisions Conversation Day
-Crisis Prevention and Intervention Training (initial and refresher)
Staff Development—Individual
Throughout the year, staff members sought out staff development in their indi-
vidual areas of need. This was supported by the school in the form of payment
for training sessions, mileage and substitutes from school staff development
funds.
2013-2014 Program Improvements and Innovation
The board, teachers, staff and parents at RiverBend Academy are committed to con-
tinuous improvement of the academic program and learning environment that the
school provides. This list is an overview of program improvements implemented dur-
ing the 2013-2014 school year.
1. Implementation of Short Block time. This time is utilized for intervention and
remediation groups as well as test prep.
2. Full implementation of Curriculum-wide vocabulary expansion.
3. Increased participation of PASS (Parent, Advisor, Student, Staff) program, includ-
ing multiple fundraising events and community involvement activities.
4. Two-tier intervention for math instruction was fully implemented which included
assigning students to a math test preparation group, providing individualized, tar-
geted math intervention in their identified focus area.
5. Increased community partnerships in the Friday Enrichment Program, including the
National Guard and Kiwanis Club.
6. International travel program was implemented and student group traveled to Europe
with two staff members.
RBA students enjoy
hands-on
exploration in science.
Page 6
RBA allows students
opportunities to present their
work in various settings.
RBA students make discoveries beyond the brick and mortar.
RBA students create
paper for art forms.
Strategic Plan Review
The strategic plan for RiverBend Academy expired
during the previous school year. The RBA school
board will be collecting data during the fall of
2014 to develop and implement a new strategic
plan for the school in line with the school’s new
name and priorities.
Community Services and Partnerships
Community involvement and service was a focus of the RiverBend Academy community in-
cluding staff, students and parents. Activities included:
1. RiverBend Academy staff collaborated with Minnesota State University-Mankato and
hosted students for practicum and internship requirements.
2. Public presentations of student projects were held each block to demonstrate student learn-
ing.
3. Students participated in the 30 Hour Famine to raise funds to fight world hunger.
4. Students participated in the Salvation Army Kettle campaign by ringing bells at several
Mankato locations.
5. The RiverBend Academy FIRST Robotics team partnered students from several area
schools as well as local businesses.
6. A Community Partner Award was given each block (see appendix F).
7. Students from RiverBend Academy volunteered at History Fest.
8. Students from RiverBend Academy participated in the Mankato city-wide Career Fair.
9. RiverBend Academy Student of the Month students were honored by the Downtown Ki-
wanis Club.
10. Prejudice Reduction Workshop for RiverBend Academy students was conducted by the
Greater Mankato Diversity Council.
11. The National Guard partnered with RBA to provide a variety of curricular and extracur-
ricular opportunities for students.
12. RiverBend Academy students visited South Central College to experience a Friday En-
richment in the Physics Lab.
13. RiverBend Academy provided field trip opportunities to area businesses and organiza-
tions: Stardoc Studios, Minnesota Valley Credit Union, NGM website and photography,
Ordway Theater, Kasota Prairie, Minnesota History Center, etc.
14. RiverBend Academy students started a Key Club sponsored by the Downtown Kiwanis
Club.
15. RiverBend Academy participated in Give to the Max day 2013 sponsored by GiveMN
and raised over $800.
16. RiverBend Academy students participated in Pennies for Patients to benefit The Leukemia
and Lymphoma Society.
“They understand and know
how to work w/my child so my
child can succeed”
“Small class sizes”
“Flexibility, personable,
communication”
“Teachers are very helpful”
“It is a safe environment”
“Great Teachers”
Page 7
What is one thing you appreciate
or like about RBA?
Community Service
Raking up the town!
Students volunteered 600
hours this year!!
Program Challenges
Page 8
Attendance Attendance continued to be a focus for RiverBend Academy. The school’s rate of attendance
was 87.15% for the year. This was a significant improvement over previous years and supported
the emphasis placed on strategies to improve attendance. Because RiverBend Academy contin-
ues to serve a population that has a high incidence of “at-risk” factors, attendance continues to
be an ongoing challenge for many individual students. The school employs a full time school
social worker who works with individual students and families to improve student attendance.
Student Mobility Because RiverBend Academy provides a unique educational program, student turnover has been
a consistent challenge. Students who enroll for reasons other than seeking what the school has
to offer educationally often are not successful and choose to leave after a short time. There are
also many other reasons for student population change including: changes in family situation,
peer issues, lack of motivation, behavioral issues and many others. The small size of the staff
and the labor intensive nature of the advisory model make these changes stressful and a drain on
staff resources and time.
High Stakes Tests RiverBend Academy was identified as a Continuous Improvement School for the 2013-14
school year. Several factors have contributed to the school’s struggles to produce consistent
success on high stakes tests. These factors include: the mobility of the student population, atten-
dance issues, incoming students with academic instruction deficits and multiple at-risk factors
shared by many RBA students. To address these factors RBA has: continued to employ a full-
time social worker, adjusted attendance policies and developed incentive programs to attempt to
improve student attendance, continued the advisory model to provide a supportive educational
environment for all students including those with at-risk characteristics. In addition, a School
Improvement Plan was implemented that included research and selection of research based inter-
vention strategies, periodic data analysis and additions and adaptations to the structure and cur-
riculum provided to students. Despite these measures, the resulting student scores on high
stakes tests have not met the rigorous expectations of the staff at RBA. One additional factor that
hinders test results at RiverBend Academy is small sample size.
Public Perception
During the 2013-14 school year, RiverBend Academy continued several initiatives to raise visi-
bility in the community. This included frequent press releases, open houses and flyers delivered
via community food establishments. The Public Relations Committee has also worked to in-
crease the school’s digital presence. The staff has promoted an active Facebook page, website
and an email service for families. Staff made multiple connections with individuals and organi-
zations in the community which were used to provide various on- and off-campus learning op-
portunities to students. Students were recognized through the Downtown Kiwanis Club Stu-
dent of the Month program. Students also became involved in community events such as the
History Fest, 30-hour famine, and learning activities at South Central College. Students who
were part of the robotics program also had the opportunity to go out into the public to promote
their team and raise money for competitions. Several open house events were held at different
times of the year. The staff has identified public perception as an ongoing and persistent chal-
lenge and spent a large amount of staff time and resources preparing to change the name of the
school for the 2014-15 school year.
Students at RBA are
rewarded for perfect
attendance throughout
the block.
RBA students have a
chance to show off their
work during Presenta-
tion Events
RiverBend Academy will remain committed to its core mission and vision. In order to meet this
goal, RiverBend is pursuing several strategic initiatives for the 2014-15 academic year and beyond.
School Name Change The staff has planned and implemented a process to change the name of the school from RiverBend
Academy to Kato Public Charter School. There are several reasons this decision was made. The
name RiverBend Academy confused community members often leaving the impression that the
school is a private school. The name is easily confused with another academic institution in the
area. Finally, the name is synonymous with the school as it started 15 years ago. The staff felt that
the program has evolved over that time and it would be an opportunity to introduce the community
to the academic program as it exists now. The new name will take effect July 1, 2014. A kickoff
event will be held August 11, 2014.
Improved Teacher Evaluation
RiverBend Academy will continue to implement changes to teacher evaluation consistent with legis-
lative requirements. Staff will attend MDE provided training in preparation to plan and implement
these changes. These changes will incorporate additional peer observation and an increased focus
on instructional quality.
Google Apps for Education
RiverBend Academy took the first step to implementing Google Apps for Education. Staff use was
implemented for 2013-14 and school-wide student use will begin in 2014-15. This will allow for
greater student-teacher collaboration on assignments, reduced paper costs, reduced costs for email
hosting and other services and skill building for students in 21st century technology skills offered by
Google Apps for Education.
Improved Student Recruitment and Retention
RBA will improve student recruitment by implementing several new strategies including: a school
name change, a vigorous rebranding effort, and information sessions held at the local public library
throughout the summer. Retention strategies will include: student mentors for students who enroll
during the year and the continued use of the advisory program to help them acclimate to RBA.
Increased Community Partnerships As a part of the school name change and rebranding effort, RBA will be joining the Greater Man-
kato Growth organization to help increase community partnerships. The new director will also be
setting up meetings with the local colleges and universities to work on partnerships and programs
for all students.
New Director
At the close of the 2013-14 school year the school’s director, who has been on staff since the incep-
tion of the school, retired. The RBA board conducted a thorough review of the needs of the school
and has made changes to the duties of the director which now include more involvement in Public
Relations and other areas the board identified as needing greater director involvement.
Future Plans
Page 9
The RBA Friday Enrichment pro-
gram provides a rich variety of en-
richment opportunities for students.
RBA students volunteer in a
variety of community settings as
part of their learning.
The audited figures for FY08 were as follows:
Revenues 937,832
Expenditures 1,048,014
The Fund Balance for FY08 was 361,298
The audited figures for FY09 were as follows:
Revenues 933,718
Expenditures 951,326
The Fund Balance for FY09 was 337,815
The audited figures for FY10 were as follows:
Revenues 879,162
Expenditures 884,835
The Fund Balance for FY10 was 332,718
The audited figures for FY11 were as follows:
Revenues 827,856
Expenditures 865,442
The Fund Balance for FY10 was 312,984
The budget for FY 12 is as follows:
Revenues 905,051
Expenditures 892,220
The Fund Balance for FY12 was 335,942
The budget for FY 12 is as follows:
Revenues 879,341
Expenditures 848,363
The Fund Balance for FY13 was 366,920
Revenues 885,423
Expenditures 863,730
School Finances
RiverBend Academy
earned the MDE School
Finance Award for the
8th year in a row dur-
ing the 2013-2014
school year.
Presentation nights feature
student awards that recog-
nize students for their accom-
plishments
Page 10
Financial Issues/Concerns
RiverBend Academy passed the 2013
-14 financial audit conducted by
Abdo, Eick & Meyers. The audit
report results were presented to the
school board at the August, 2014
meeting.
1) RiverBend Academy will improve student attendance by 3% as measured by annual
yearly attendance.
This goal was met for the 2013-14 year. The school’s rate of attendance 81.36% for 2012-13
increased to 87.15% for the 2013-14 school year, this exceeded the goal of a 3% increase.
RiverBend continued to make changes to its attendance policy, provide information to parents
regarding attendance, and provided additional staff development to promote increased atten-
dance for 2013-14, these measures did appear to be effective for the group of students enrolled
during the 2013-14 year. Attendance continues to be a major challenge for many students at
RiverBend Academy. The staff will continue to work with students and parents to promote
improved attendance.
Review of 2013-14 Nonacademic Goals
Review of 2013-14 Academic Goals
Page 11
1. RiverBend Academy will increase the percentage of students meeting or exceeding the
standards on the MCA II Science test by 10% as measured by testing results.
In 2013-2014, two out eight (25%) of 8th graders met the standards. In high school three out
twenty (15%) of the students met the standards. In 2012-213, zero out of five (0%) 8th graders met the standards. 2 out of 6 (33%) high school students
met the standards.
In 2012-2013, 18% of student that were enrolled in RiverBend Academy met the standards.
In 2011-2012, 25% of students that were enrolled in RiverBend Academy met the standards.
2. RiverBend Academy will increase the number of students who earn a growth score of
10% on the NWEA reading test from fall to spring or the percentage of students meeting
or exceeding the standards on the MCA II Reading test by 10% as measured by testing
results.
In 2013-2014, nineteen out of 44 ( 43%) of students met the goal criteria.
In 2012-2013, ten out of twenty six (36.8%) of students met the goal criteria.
In 2011-2012, twenty-two out of thirty seven (65%) students met the goal criteria.
3. RiverBend Academy will increase the number of students who earn a growth score of
10% on the MCA writing test from fall to spring or who earn 1 credit in Language Arts as
measured by transcripts. In 2013-2014, 46 out of 65 students earned 1 credit of Language Arts (71%)
In 2012-2013, five out six (83%) of students met the goal criteria. In 2011-2012, fifteen out of twenty-five ( 43 %) of students met the goal criteria.
4. RiverBend Academy will increase the number of students meeting or exceeding the stan-
dards on the MCA II Math test by 10% as measured by testing results. These goals allow
for multiple measures of success as well as meeting the criteria for SMART goals.
In 2013-2014, one out of seventeen (6%) of students met the goal criteria.
In 2012-2013, two out fourteen ( 14%) of students met the goal criteria. In 2011-2012, seventeen out of thirty-seven ( 46%) of students met the goal criteria.
Finance Performance Indicators
a. The school has a budget approved by the board. The budget is being followed or amended
when necessary, based on student enrollment changes or other appropriate reasons.
b. The school finances are appropriately managed as evidenced by the audit and monthly re-
ports.
c. State finance reports are filed appropriately and on time.
d. State/federal taxes, pensions, insurance, etc. are paid as required.
e The board monitors the budget on a regular basis.
f. The budget includes revenue for anticipated future needs.
g. The patterns of expenditures are consistent with the mission, program and goals of the
school.
h. The school audit contains no material findings.
School Management and Operations Performance Indicators (1) Data on the following reflects appropriate management:
(a) Staff qualifications/licensure are in compliance.
(b) Staff assignments and turnover do not change at a high level.
(c) Enrollment process is followed and planning is accurate.
(d) Transportation system is functioning well.
(e) Complaint and resolution procedures are followed.
(f) State reporting is completed accurately and timely based on MDE information.
(g) Board policies are being implemented.
(h) The School has appropriate insurance.
(2) Compliance with state and federal standards
(a) State and federal laws are being followed; i.e. special education, discipline, food/nutrition
based on state or federal audits/compliance reviews.
(b) Non-discrimination laws are appropriately followed.
(3) Facilities
(a) Health and Safety laws are being adhered to.
(b) The school has adequate space.
(c) The lease provisions are being implemented.
RiverBend Academy 2014-2015 District Goals
At senior presentations
students share their
senior projects before
graduation.
Page 12
RiverBend Academy’s academic goals are:
1. RiverBend Academy will increase the percentage of students meeting or exceeding the
standards on the MCA II Science test by 10% as measured by testing results.
2. RiverBend Academy will increase the number of students who earn a growth score of
10% on the NWEA reading test from fall to spring or the percentage of students meeting or
exceeding the standards on the MCA II Reading test by 10% as measured by testing results.
3. RiverBend Academy will increase the number of students who earn a growth score of
10% on the MCA writing test from fall to spring or who earn one credit in Language Arts as
measured by transcripts.
4. RiverBend Academy will increase the number of students meeting or exceeding the stan-
dards on the MCA II Math test by 10% as measured by testing results. These goals allow
for multiple measures of success as well as meeting the criteria for SMART goals.
Academic Support for Students Who Fall Behind Students who did not earn 1.2 credits each block were assigned to an Academic Support exploratory. This was a
small group (no more than 10 students) setting in which students had extra time to keep up or catch up on their
work. Advisors could provide the supervising teacher with tasks for students to complete and students worked
individually in areas they were behind on or to make up incomplete work.
Project Management-Project Foundry
Project Foundry is a web-based project management software designed for project-based schools. It is designed
to help students and teachers plan projects, organize workflow and see their results. Teachers and students were
given training to improve effectiveness when using Project Foundry.
Team Assessment Assessment of projects was done by a team which included, but was not limited to, the student, advisor, case
manager (as applicable), other advisors and other students. The student had a forum to demonstrate new learning
both verbally and through the production of the project.
Language Arts
The RBA Language Arts program incorporates small class, sizes, a 72 minute block period and extensive oral
reading in class. In addition, the Minnesota Language Arts Standards were used to develop topics for each Unit
that teachers use. Reading Materials and writing prompts are taken from examples in the standards that are pro-
vided.
Friday Enrichment Program
RiverBend Academy offers a Friday Enrichment program for students which takes place every other Friday. Stu-
dents participate in activities that introduce them to subjects and experiences they may not have available in their
everyday life. For a list of activities, see Appendix F.
Math Curriculum
The RBA Math Program offers small class sizes, a 72 minute block period and Title I supplemental help during
the afternoons. RBA uses the Holt Math Curriculum. This offers online textbook and tutorial video access and
differentiated instruction options. RBA also offers both traditionally instructed as well as self-paced learning
options for students.
Multi-Disciplinary Learning
“Life does not happen one academic discipline at a time”. RBA students are encouraged to learn in context in-
volving a multi-disciplinary approach whenever possible. This is incorporated both in individual projects as well
as in Exploratory, Short-block and Friday Enrichment experiences.
Short Block
The last period of the day which lasts 35 minutes is devoted to remediation and enrichment. Students who need
extra help in math, English or general academic progress are assigned to remediation in small group settings to
supplement regular instruction. Other students may choose activities including: art, music, physical education,
yearbook, service activities, and other enrichment focused topics.
Academic Best Practices
RBA held its annual
Snow Week to improve
school spirit.
RBA students partici-
pated in FIRST Robotics
for 2013-2014
Page 13
School Social Worker
RiverBend Academy had a full-time licensed master’s level social worker who also holds a school
social work license with the State of Minnesota Board of Social Work and the Minnesota Depart-
ment of Education. The social worker was present during the 2013-2014 academic year. She pro-
vided direct counseling services to students and group lessons on topics such as character, self-
esteem, teamwork, and social skills. RBA’s social worker educated students on career development
and post-secondary educational opportunities in a classroom setting and individually as guidance
was needed.
The school social worker also managed attendance and behavior issues and, when necessary, con-
nected students in need with county resources. She coordinated with probation units, law enforce-
ment, county workers, mental health practitioners, and other community agencies to provide appro-
priate services to students. Having a full-time social worker allowed teaching staff to devote more
time to academic matters. The social worker collaborated with Minnesota State University, Mankato
Social Work Department to provide educational presentations to RiverBend Academy Students re-
garding life-challenging issues.
Advisory
Each student is assigned to an advisory that meets each morning for 27 minutes. This allows stu-
dents to develop relationships with the other students in their group through team building activities,
discussions and other activities that promote positive interaction. Students also have one teacher as
their advisor who works with them to develop their individualized curriculum, works through issues
and is the student’s advocate in the building. Multi-age advisories are the centerpiece of the indi-
vidualized, relationship-focused, educational environment provided at RiverBend Academy.
Small Class Sizes
The class sizes at RiverBend Academy are capped at 17. Research shows that reduced class size is
one effective way of improving student achievement. This is a central tenet of the individualized
curriculum provided by RBA. Teachers work with small groups of students and are able to provide
the one-on-one help that is needed.
Driver’s Education
At RiverBend Academy, students who were at least 15 before the end of summer in 2014 had the
option of taking the classroom part of driver’s education for no charge. Students who were enrolled
in the class had to participate for at least 30 total hours over two blocks and learned such things as
how to drive a car, state and national laws in regards to the highway transportation system, defensive
driving, and car safety. Once students completed their 30 hours or more of training, the students
under 18 years of age received a letter notifying instructional institutions that taught the six hours of
behind-the-wheel that they were eligible for their blue card. Those over 18 used the information
provided in the class to take the state exam without the need of the 30 hour letter.
Caught Slips
School wide positive behavior interventions have been demonstrated as effective ways to improve
the learning environment in a building. The staff at RiverBend Academy have used “You Got
Caught” slips to recognize positive student behavior for a number of years. Staff award caught slips
for a wide variety of positive behaviors. These slips are displayed in classrooms and at the end of
each block. A drawing is held at the end of each block to reward students with various types of
prizes. At the end of the school year caught slips from every block for students are entered in an end
of the school year drawing for larger prizes such as books, backpacks, and grand prizes such as gift
certificates and an iPod Shuffle.
Nonacademic Best Practices
RiverBend
Academy provides
students with:
small class sizes,
individualized
curriculum and the
opportunity to work to
their potential!
In advisory, teachers have a small
group of students for the whole
year
Page 14
RiverBend Public Charter School
has participated in the FIRST
Robotics Championship during
the last four school years. This
year, RBA joined with students
from Lake Crystal and St. Peter
to compete under the name of
Nordic Storm 3018.
The team ended up having a very
successful 2014 season. First,
they went up to the Lake Supe-
rior Regional in Duluth, MN. At
this tournament they were the
second ranked team out of 57
through the entire elimination
rounds, winning nine and only
losing one during that time.
With the alliance they selected,
they were able to win the tourna-
ment championship and qualify
for the World Championships.
The team also won the Innova-
tion in Control Award during the
tournament.
Nordic Storm 3018 then went to
Milwaukee and ended up forth
out of 60 teams during the quali-
fication round. The team then
selected their alliance that even-
tually led to a runner-up finish..
After receiving a special award
for staying up late one night and
traveling to Minneapolis to put
up a field to help out the North
Star Regional, they were off to
St. Louis, MO to participate in
the World Championship. There,
the Nordic Storm went five and
five, finishing 56th out of 100 in
their division.
The final event of the season was
the Minnesota State High School
League Championship at Wil-
liams Arena in Minneapolis. The
Nordic Storm was the second
team selected after going 3-4-1
during qualifications. Their alli-
ance ended up winning MSHSL
Second Place during this event.
The team disbanded after that,
leaving some decisions in the air
for 2015. The school plans on
competing in a smaller program
called VEX Robotics in the com-
ing year, but it will be deter-
plin, MN. There were
38 schools and 1230 stu-
dents that participated in
the MN State Tourna-
ment. Five students
from RBA competed at
the tournament and had a
great time as well as a
RiverBend Academy
attended the National
Archery in the Schools
Program (NASP) state
archery tournament on
Saturday, March 29th.
The tournament took
place at Champlin Park
High School in Cham-
positive learning experi-
ence.
Robotics
Archery
International Trip
Eiffel Tower, Palace of
Versailles, the Louvre,
Colosseum, Vatican City
and many more historical
and culturally significant
sites. One student re-
ports, “The trip was won-
derful from start to finish.
This trip changed my life
for the better. I’m more
confident and excited to
travel again.”
The Bon Voyage student
group has a second trip
planned in June, 2015 to
Costa Rica.
RiverBend Academy’s Bon
Voyage student group
traveled on their first in-
ternational trip. Six stu-
dents and two staff mem-
bers traveled to London,
Paris and Rome in June,
2014. Sites visited in-
clude Windsor Castle,
Buckingham Palace, the
Volume 1, Issue 1
Nordic Storm
3018 in Duluth
where they won
the Lake Superior
Regional
2013-14 Nordic Storm
2013-14 RBA
Archery Team
Page 15
Kato Public Charter School is
located at 110 N. 6th street in
Mankato, MN. 56001
Mission
Kato Public Charter School
will provide a purposeful
place to empower students to
succeed in their school, in
their community and in their
lives.
Vision
Kato Public Charter School
helps students develop char-
acter for living responsibly,
and is a learning community
that helps students acquire
knowledge and skills through
student-focused programs
built on meaningful connec-
tions with the community.
KPCS VALUES
Values are the backbone of
any community. KPCS values
include: Respect Life Long
Learning, Accountability-
Community
about availability of the an-
nual report will be dispersed via
the school newsletter, textwire
service, website and Facebook
page.
The RiverBend Academy 2013-
14 Annual Report will be distrib-
uted in the following ways. A
copy will be submitted to the
Minnesota Department of Edu-
cation. A copy will be submitted
to the school’s authorizer. The
annual report will be available
via the school’s website for
parent and community viewing.
Paper copies will be available in
the school office. Information
Kato PCS Location, Mission and Vision
Report Distribution
History Of the school
August of 2003. The program
was expanded to serve 6th-
graders in the fall of 2005. The
school has undergone several
changes since its inception,
constantly adapting to the
needs of our students. The
change to Kato Public Charter
School in July of 2014 in a way
acknowledges this evolution
into a school that is markedly
different from the RiverBend
Academy of 14 years ago.
Kato Public Charter School was
started under the name River-
Bend Academy in July of 2000,
when the Minnesota Depart-
ment of Children Families and
Learning accepted and ap-
proved its charter. In Septem-
ber of 2000, the school opened
its doors to students in grades
7 through 12 in the Belle Mar
Mall, which has since been
demolished. It moved to its
current location on 6th Street in
Volume 1, Issue 1 Page 16
The school’s Authorizer is Novation Education
Opportunities
Contact Information
3432 Denmark Ave, Ste 130
Eagan, MN 55123
612-889-2103
executive.director.neo@gmail.com
www.novationeducationopportunities.org.
NEO facilitates the connection of innovation and
high quality education by working with schools
to identify best practices and share them not only
with schools in the NEO portfolio, but with all
schools, to improve the opportunities that stu-
dents have for success in meeting their hopes
and dreams.
Authorizer—NEO
2011-12—Total Students Enrolled during the year by grade
6th grade—5
7th grade—5
8th grade—13
9th grade– 16
10th grade—16
11th grade– 11
12th grade—40
2012-13—Total Students Enrolled during the year by grade
6th grade—4
7th grade—4
8th grade—11
9th grade– 8
10th grade—24
11th grade– 18
12th grade—31
2013-14—Total Students Enrolled during the year by grade
6th grade—2
7th grade—8
8th grade—10
9th grade– 10
10th grade—13
11th grade– 23
12th grade—22
2014-15 Total Students Enrolled during the year by grade
Projected
6th grade—2
7th grade—7
8th grade—8
9th grade–14
10th grade—10
11th grade– 13
12th grade—30
Enrollment Information—
Appendix A
RiverBend Academy (Public Charter School) #4066
2013-14 Board Membership
Name Training
Joshua Vanderberg Completed 11/12/10 Open Meeting Law training—NEO Representative 2/24/14
Sarah May Completed 6/11/14 2015 Funding Changes/Special Education Funding Updates (Region
V Meeting, 4/3/14)
Lisa Dudley Seated 1/12 Training session on School Finance 5/12
Completed 1/16/13
Title I training on 6/25/14
Bekki Ziemer Seated 1/13 Completed 1/16/13
Resigned 1/20/14 No ongoing training completed
Todd Hanselman Completed 11/12/10 Teacher Evaluations (Overview and Requirements for Charter
Schools) presented by Tyler Livingston of MDE-2 hours. (10/17/13
Edvisions Fall Conversation Day)
Jim Timmerman Completed 11/12/10 EdVisions Coop: Past, Present and Future – presented by Aaron
Grimm – This was a double session – 2 hours. (10/17/13 Edvisions
Fall Conversation Day)
Teresa Focht Seated on board 5/12 Completed 1/16/13
Don Johannsen Completed 11/12/10 Teacher Evaluations (Overview and Requirements for Charter
Schools) presented by Tyler Livingston of MDE-2 hours. EdVisions
Coop: Past, Present and Future – presented by Aaron Grimm – This was a double session – 2 hours. (10/17/13 Edvisions Fall Conversa-
tion Day)
Craig Anderson Newly Appointed 1/14
Josh Vanderberg, Chair 812 N 4
th St.
Mankato, MN 56001 (507)625-7933 jvboard@riverbendacademy.com. Community Member Term: 2013-2015 Sarah May, Treasurer 110 N. 6
th St
Mankato, MN 56001 (507)387-5524 Ext. 236 smboard@riverbendacademy.com Teacher Term: 2013-2015 Lisa Dudley, Secretary 110 N. 6th St Mankato, MN 56001 (507)387-5524, Ext. 237 ldudley@riverbendacademy.com Teacher Term: 2012-2014 Bekki Ziemer 1629 Commerce Dr #7 North Mankato, MN 56003 (507)380-1769 bzboard@riverbendacademy.com Parent Term: 2013-2014 (resigned 1/20/14) Todd Hanselman 110 N. 6
th St
Mankato, MN 56001 (507)387-5524 Ext. 230 thboard@riverbendacademy.com Teacher Term 2012-2014 Jim Timmerman 110 N. 6
th St
Mankato, MN 56001 (507)387-5524 Ext. 235 jtboard@riverbendacademy.com Teacher Term: 2013-2015
Teresa Focht, Vice-Chair 116 S. 6
th St.
Mankato, MN 56001 (507)720-0370 tfboard@riverbendacademy.com Community Member Term 2012-2014 Don Johannsen 30 Pilot Court South Mankato, MN 56001 (507) 387-5524 Ext. 223 djboard@riverbendacademy.com Director
Craig Anderson 213 Tanager Rd Mankato, MN 56001 (507)514-3179 caboard@riverbendacademy.com Parent Appointed 1/2014 to 6/2014
Joshua Vanderberg—Community Member
Josh is a RiverBend Academy graduate. He is a successful business owner and member of the community. He has served
multiple terms on the RBA school board and has served the last 3 years as the chair of the board.
Teresa Focht - Parent
I have been married almost 22 years and have 5 beautiful children ranging from adults to 16 years old, I also have 3 grand-
children. We moved to the Mankato area about 1 ½ years ago and have fallen in love with the community and all it has to
offer.
I have a career in business management and have been in that career for over 20 years, which has led to our family being
relocated several times until we located here in Mankato, which we plan on retiring here.
I have always been involved with the schools that my children attend and believe in pursuing the best education for them. I
truly believe that it takes a whole community to raise a child. My belief also is that all parents should be heard, not just the
opinion of myself.
Lisa Dudley - Staff
Lisa has been teaching for 9 years in the area of Special Education, 5 of those years as been at RBA. She served as Vice-
President of the RBA board 3 years ago, Treasurer of the board and chair of Finance Committee for two years and for 2013-
14 has been the secretary of the Board
Todd Hanselman – Staff
Todd Hanselman is in his fourth year at RiverBend Academy. He is the chair of the special education department, runs the
driver education program, and is a mentor for the robotics team. Todd has been teaching since 1997, and he has been in-
volved with special education since 2001. He graduated with his bachelor's degree in social studies teaching in 1997 from
Mankato State, and received his masters in emotional/behavioral disorders in special education in 2008 from Minnesota
State.
Sarah May—Staff
Sarah is a High School advisor. This is her first term on RiverBend Academy’s school board. Sarah served as the Treasurer
of the board and chair of the finance committee during the 2013-14 school year. Her license area is Social Studies, receiving
her MA from Minnesota State University and BA from the University of Minnesota.
Jim Timmerman—Staff
Jim is a high school advisor. This is his 10th year at RBA. His license area is Social Studies with added licenses in Special
Education. Jim has served one term on the RBA school board.
Bekki Ziemer—Parent
Bekki Ziemer is the parent of a RiverBend Academy student. She lives in the Mankato area and served on RBA board for
approx. one year.
Craig Anderson– Parent
Dr. Anderson is the parent of a student at RiverBend Academy. He is a pediatrician at the Mankato Clinic. He has taken an
active role in the school. Dr. Anderson was appointed to serve on the RBA board in January of 2014.
Don Johannsen—Ex Officio
Don Johannsen is the Director and part-time teacher at RiverBend Academy. Don has been a member of the RBA staff since
the school’s inception first as an advisor, then as Coordinator and finally with the title of Director. Don serves as an ex offi-
cio member of the board.
Appendix A—Continued
Appendix B
RiverBend Academy (Public Charter School) #4066
2013-14 Staff Information
Staff Information Below is the complete list of individuals who worked at RiverBend Academy during 2013-14. Included are individual file folder
numbers (when applicable) and their specific assignments.
Lisa Donth --------- Business Manager
Lisa Dudley 414351 Special Education Case Manager
Todd Hanselman 368934 Special Education Case Manager
Shelly Holt 476472 School Social Worker
Don Johannsen 194806 Director
Pauline Lex --------- Bus Driver
Claudia Madrigal 408482 High School Advisor
Tami Mann --------- Bus Driver
Sarah May 423135 High School Advisor
Mary Ann Mellecker --------- Title I Coordinator
Mary Miller --------- Receptionist/Health Aide
Nell Musolf 476991 Librarian/Title I Paraprofessional/Short-Call Substitute Teacher
Laurie Putze 364231 Middle School Advisor
Allison Roberts 428357 Art Advisor
James Timmerman 374179 High School Advisor
Amanda Wirig 477127 Music Advisor
Appendix C-MCA Results
Number tested
Number Did not meet
Number Partially met
Number Met
Number Exceeds
Percent Did not meet
Percent Partially met
Percent met
Percent Exceeds
Math
Grade 11 17 14 2 1 0 82 12 6 0
Reading
Grade 7 7 3 0 4 0 43 0 57 0
Grade 8 8 3 3 2 0 38 38 25 0
Grade 10 9 2 5 2 0 22 56 22 0
Science
Grade 8 8 2 4 2 0 25 50 25 0
Grade 9-12 20 12 5 3 0 60 25 15 0
RiverBend Academy 2013-2014 Parent Survey Results
Appendix D
13 6
2 My student has been more successful academically at RBA than at their previous school.
11 4 3 1 My student has been more successful behaviorally at RBA than at their previous school.
13 5 1 1 RBA has provided a safer and more positive learning environment than my student's previous school.
17 2 RBA has provided my student with a class size of 17 students or less.
15 3 2 My child's curriculum has been individulized to meet their academic needs and learn-ing style.
18 2 I would recommend RBA to other families considering school options in the Mankato area.
19 2 Staff at RBA has been welcoming when I come to the building.
19 1 If I have questions, RBA staff answers them promptly.
5 4 3 2 1 5= Strongly Agree 1=Strongly Disagree
Parent Feedback for RiverBend Improvement
5 4 3 2 1
7 3 5 5 Read the RBA monthly newsletter
5 1 2 12 Use the RBA facebook page
5 2 8 1 4 Use the RBA website
17 2 Attend Conferences
4 6 2 8 Attend Presentation nights
1 1 19 Attend PASS meetings
2 5 1 11 Attend monthly McEducator fundraiser
Please Rate Your Use of the Following
5=always, 3=sometime, 1=never
Organization
Name RIVERBEND ACADEMY
Organization
Type TRUST
Contact Person ATTN: Lisa Dudley
Address 110 N 6TH ST
City MANKATO
State MN
Zip Code 56001
IRS Code 501
(c) 03
Purpose or De-
scription Educational program for grades 6 through 12.
Phone Number (507) 387-5524
Status ACTIVE
Appendix E
2013-2014 Community Partner/Parent Awards
Block 1 Erbert & Gerbert’s
Block 2 Scheitel’s Music
Block 3 Lynn Callahan, Tracy Cummings
Block 4 Amy Miller(Junior Achievement)
Block 5 Stardoc
Friday Enrichments offered in 2013-2014
Appendix F
Wii Olympics on the Big Screen
SEA LIFE
Key Club In-Depth
RBA trivia tournament
Papermaking
The Help
Song Writers
Sledding
ASVAB
Bees, Bugs, & Butterflies
Valentine's Day Craft
StarDoc Music Studios
Lifelong Nutrition for a healthy life.
Mount Kato Ski Area
El Anatsui + working with found materials
Health MSU Students
Things I need to succeed at life.
Chess
50 Years of the Beattles
Prohition Exhibit at MHS/MN Capitol
"Get that pesky standard"
Searching for Sugarman
Braided Bracelets (Paracord and Friendship)
Health MSU Students
MythBusters
Oragami
Embroidery and Hand-stitching
Song writing
Herberger's
Minnesota History Center
MythBusters
Big Star
Pi Day
Glazing Day
Study Hall
Health MSU Students
Diary of Anne Frank Play
WWII presentation
School of Rock
Academic Support
Health MSU Students
Enlisted Life
Illustrating Children's Books
Hatfields & McCoys Kennedy Assassination - 50 years later
Play practice
MSU tour
Chess
Songwriting
Hatfields & McCoys
Walker's County Park
Health
Stencils and Spraypaint
Music Studio
Games with numbers
Walk to Spring Lake Park
Festival of Nations
Health MSU Students
Sculpture Walk
A Beautiful Mind
Project Time
Golf at Terrace View Par 3 Course
Treasure Hunt
Community Service
Logo Design Contest
School of Rock
Little Man Tate
Senior (or just really moti-vated) Study Hall
Stardoc Studios
SCC tour
Mail (Letter) Art.
Kiwanis Lights
Fantasy Football
Softball
Kasota Prairie
Outdoor sketching/Drawing class
The Beatles
Bike Riding
Maya
Valley Veggies
Beatles Anthology music and art
Sr. Project/ Serious Project work
History Fest
CityArt Walking Sculpture Tour
Chess
Financial Literacy
Minnesota Valley Credit Union
NGM Website and Photography
Art Walk Downtown
The Universe
Songwriters
Kiwanis Lights
Set-building & Costume Design
VINE Rake the Town
Play Practice for All Char-acters
Kiwanis Lights
Appendix G—Management
Description of Management Arrangement
The board has charged the director with conducting the day to day operations of the school.
The RiverBend Academy School Board has created the following committee structure to assist the director in carrying out these
duties.
Committee Set up
The board sets up committees in July/August and designates chairs Committees elect the secretary or agree on schedule for members to take turns taking minutes Set yearly schedule of duties and deadlines Chair duties
Prepare and post agenda, Delegate duties to other committee members
Secretary duties Record who is present, Keep minutes of meeting, Post meeting minutes
Member duties Be prompt in attendance at all meetings, Complete assigned duties promptly, Suggest
agenda items
Committees of the Board Personnel Committee Finance Committee Curriculum Committee SPED Committee
Management Committees of the Director Building and Transportation Committee Public Relations and Recruitment Technology Committee
Appendix G—Continued
Professional Development Plan
The Board of Directors and the Director developed a professional development plan for the Director. The plan included the follow-
ing:
Director’s Professional Development Plan for 2012-13:
Attend all meetings with the authorizer
Attend Region V conferences and trainings
Attend UFARS trainings
Attend AYP meetings
Attend the EdVisions HR meeting
In review it was determined the Director met all the requirements of the professional development plan.
The Director attended AYP meetings and worked with other staff members to develop an AYP plan for the year.
The Director attended all Region V meetings and all MDE UFARS meetings.
The Director attended all meetings with the authorizer
The Director attended the EdVisions HR meeting
2013-2014
Application
Please return to: RBA Public Charter School
110 North 6th Street
Mankato, MN 56001
Phone: 507-387-5524 Fax: 507-387-5680
STUDENT INFORMATION:
_______________________________________ ________________________________ _____________________ Student Last Name Student First Name Student Middle Name
__________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ Student Home Address Student Home City/State/Zip
_________________________ ___________________________ _____________________________________ Student Home Phone Student Cell Phone Student E-mail Address
_________________________ Grade Applying For
PARENT/GUARDIAN INFORMATION:
Parent/Guardian #1:
[ ] Biological [ ] Step-parent [ ] Other (please describe relationship)_________________________________________
Name______________________________________ E-mail Address__________________________________________
Cell Phone____________________________________ Work Phone__________________________________________
Parent/Guardian #2:
[ ] Biological [ ] Step-parent [ ] Other (please describe relationship)_________________________________________
Name______________________________________ E-mail Address__________________________________________
Cell Phone____________________________________ Work Phone__________________________________________
Non-custodial parent (if applicable):
[ ] Biological [ ] Step-parent [ ] Other (please describe relationship)_________________________________________
Name______________________________________ E-mail Address__________________________________________
Cell Phone____________________________________ Work Phone__________________________________________
**My signature represents my appr
mation listed above is accurate
______________________________________________________ __________________________
Parent or Guardian Signature/Student’s Signature if 18 Years Old or Older Date
**My signature represents my approval for my student to enroll at RBA Public Charter School and certifies all
information listed above is accurate.**
Appendix I—World’s Best Workforce Report
The World’s Best Workforce Legislation Passed by the Minnesota Legislature sets out 5 goals
which all schools must plan for address. Listed below is a description of progress towards each
goal by RiverBend Academy during the 2013-14 school year.
1. All children are ready for school. RiverBend Academy serves a student body covering grades 6-12. This goal is not applicable to the school’s mission. 2. All third-graders can read at grade level. RiverBend Academy serves a student body covering grades 6-12. This goal is not applicable to the school’s mission. 3. All racial and economic achievement gaps between students are closed. RiverBend Academy strives to help each child reach their potential. Strategies used by the school to address this goal include the following: -multi-tiered interventions in Math and Reading for students in grades 6-8, 10, 11. -advisory program to provide each student with an advisor to plan and guide their curriculum. -individualized curriculum—a learning plan for each student that accounts for learning style and academic strengths and weaknesses. -A minimum of three face to face conferences with families during the school year -A full time school social worker to address issues of attendance, needed community resources and mental health challenges.
4. All students are ready for career and college. RiverBend Academy strives to help each student be prepared for their life after high school. Strategies used by the school to address this goal include the following: -Individual Learning Plan—form filled out at the beginning of each year that helps stu dents plan the year and generate ideas for post high school interests. -Friday Enrichment Program—provides opportunities for students to sign up for enrichment experiences which include: college visits, visits to businesses, -Transitions exploratory—One time per week /7 week class that allows students age appropriate experiences in brainstorming, skills development and practice with post high school planning -Multi-tiered interventions in Math and Reading for students in grades 6-8, 10, 11. (see school improvement plan) 5. All students graduate from high school. RiverBend Academy seeks to help each student graduate from high school. The following are examples of strategies the school employs to help students reach this goal. -Advisory program to provide each student with an advisor to plan and guide their curriculum. -Individualized curriculum—a learning plan for each student that accounts for learning style and academic strengths and weaknesses. -A minimum of three face-to-face conferences with families during the school year. -A full-time school social worker to address issues of attendance, needed community resources and mental health challenges.
Appendix I—Continued
Recommended