Annual Report RiverBend Academy 4066 2013-14Awards and one FIRST World Championship Award Plans on participating in VEX Robotics in 2015 as Kato Public Charter School Robotics Team

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


Revenues 933,718

Expenditures 951,326



Revenues 879,162




Revenues 827,856



The budget for FY 12 is as follows:

Revenues 905,051



The budget for FY 12 is as follows:

Revenues 879,341



Revenues 885,423


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.


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.


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.


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

[email protected]

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


6th grade—4

7th grade—4

8th grade—11

9th grade– 8

10th grade—24

11th grade– 18

12th grade—31


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—

mailto:[email protected]

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 [email protected]. Community Member Term: 2013-2015 Sarah May, Treasurer 110 N. 6

th St

Mankato, MN 56001 (507)387-5524 Ext. 236 [email protected] Teacher Term: 2013-2015 Lisa Dudley, Secretary 110 N. 6th St Mankato, MN 56001 (507)387-5524, Ext. 237 [email protected] Teacher Term: 2012-2014 Bekki Ziemer 1629 Commerce Dr #7 North Mankato, MN 56003 (507)380-1769 [email protected] Parent Term: 2013-2014 (resigned 1/20/14) Todd Hanselman 110 N. 6

th St

Mankato, MN 56001 (507)387-5524 Ext. 230 [email protected] Teacher Term 2012-2014 Jim Timmerman 110 N. 6

th St

Mankato, MN 56001 (507)387-5524 Ext. 235 [email protected] Teacher Term: 2013-2015

Teresa Focht, Vice-Chair 116 S. 6

th St.

Mankato, MN 56001 (507)720-0370 [email protected] Community Member Term 2012-2014 Don Johannsen 30 Pilot Court South Mankato, MN 56001 (507) 387-5524 Ext. 223 [email protected] Director

Craig Anderson 213 Tanager Rd Mankato, MN 56001 (507)514-3179 [email protected] 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:




Non-custodial parent (if applicable):




**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

Documents

Annual Report RiverBend Academy 4066 2013-14Awards and one FIRST World Championship Award Plans on participating in VEX Robotics in 2015 as Kato Public Charter School Robotics Team