Mater Dei High School

WCEA/WASC REPORT

WCEA/WASC REPORT

Mater Dei High School

Name: Mater Dei High School

Address: 1202 W. Edinger Avenue Santa Ana, CA

92707

School’s Year of Inception: 1950

Nature of School Ownership: Diocesan

Identification of Owner: Roman Catholic Bishop of

Orange

Gender: Coeducational

Educational Thrust: College Preparatory

School’s Governance Structure: Consultative

Board/Council

School’s Administrative Structure: President and

Principal

Chapter 1: Intro to the School

Administrative Personnel AAdministrative Personnel BInstructional PersonnelStaff PersonnelBoard/Council

Mater Dei Parent Association CouncilThe Parent Association Council (PAC) is in charge of securing volunteers for any school functions requiring parental volunteer help as determined by the Activities Office, the Advancement Office, or the Administration.  All current parents are members of the PAC.  

President: Louise Deeb

The President oversees all of the events that PAC hosts as well as its members.  The President works with all the departments at school to make sure that their needs for volunteers are filled. The President meets twice a year with the Administration (Principal), Activities, and Advancement to review the needs and requests of the school as well as to exchange the latest school news and updates. The President conducts these meetings with the agenda being approved by the Principal prior to the meeting taking place.  The term for the President is two years.

2

EMPLOYEES FACULTY STAFF ADMIN A

ADMIN B

PART TIME

0-3 Years 85 47 17 11 2 8

4-6 Years 16 8 1 4 0 3

7-10 Years 34 17 7 8 0 2

11-20 Years 37 14 6 13 2 2

21- Over 22 11 4 3 4 0

Total Employees 194 97 35 39 8 15

Organizational Chart

SCHOOL ORGANIZATION

Vice President: Kathy Winters

The Vice President assists the President in all matters and is in charge of the Administration/Staff/Teacher Appreciation Day. This event takes place on the Monday and Tuesday of Thanksgiving week where all of the above are treated to breakfast, lunch, and goodies. Working with the Administration, the Vice President coordinates the food, arranges personnel to serve and keep items stocked, and prepares gifts for all the Staff. The term for the Vice President is two years.

Class Coordinators:

2015:        Kerry Hinkleman and Shelley Sweeney

2016:        Corinne Adams and Sheila Gonzales

2017:        Becky Albano and Cindie Selva

2018:        Christy Frank and Chimene Neglia

Each class has two class coordinators for the four year period. Once the President receives the volunteer needs from an Administrator, she forwards it on to the class coordinators who disperse it to their respective class parents, acquiring the needed volunteers that have been requested. In the past, these parent volunteers have been integral in selling homecoming and prom tickets, decoration setup and refreshment preparation for dances, and helping with Back to School Night, Information Nights, and Grad Nite.  The term for a

class coordinator typically is four years, starting freshman year and concluding when the students graduate.

Hospitality: Kathleen Bauer and Michelle Levis

There are two parent volunteers for this position. They coordinate the food and beverage ordering as well as set-up for the two Back To School Nights and Information Nights. These events are coordinated through the Advancement Office. The term for Hospitality is one year.

Grad Night Chair: Melody Rodriguez

This member is in charge of organizing Grad Nite for our Senior Class. They coordinate with the venue regarding food and beverage, entertainment, and price. This is presented to Administration for signature and approval. They also create an invitation and t-shirt for the Seniors. All of this is coordinated through the Activities Office.  The term for the Grad Nite chair is one year.

Family Mass: Maria Bechay

This volunteer works with the Advancement Office coordinating the food and beverage for Family Mass, the purchasing of all supplies for the event, and securing volunteers to help at the event.  The term for Family Mass chair is one year.

3

All School Auction:  Kathy Winters and Macs Lucero

The annual auction is the only school-wide fundraiser. There are two parents who chair the event, and they work in conjunction with the Advancement Office.  They secure the venue, food and beverages, decorations, invitations, and personnel for the event. This takes many months to organize and put together, so the term for the Auction chair is one year.

Alumni OrganizationOnce a student has graduated from Mater Dei High School, they automatically become an active member of the Alumni Organization. Mater Dei currently has over 25,000 Alumni and has two active clubs, the Alumni Circle and the Lettermen’s Club.  

Alumni Circle:

Director:   Kathleen Kelly ‘94          Chairman:   Armando Sanbrano ‘82The mission of the Alumni Circle is to continue the Mater Dei tradition for the children and grandchildren of MDHS Alumni as well as future generations by supporting the activities of the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations.  The Alumni Circle has 15 active members.    

Lettermen’s Club:

Founders:   Henry Enriquez ‘58 and Dick Litzinger ‘61

The mission of the MD Alumni Lettermen’s Club is to be committed to maintaining the fine tradition of Mater Dei Athletics. The MD Alumni Lettermen’s Club seeks to link former student athletes with one another as well as with current student-athletes, coaches, and Administrators.  The Lettermen's Club has 60-75 active members.  

Managing Director:  Tom Haupert ’58Club Mentor:   Dick CouryTreasurer:   Larry Dobson ‘59Photographer:   Bob Webber ’59Chairman of the Athletic Grant Fund program:   Gene Tidgewell ‘67

Coordinator of Coach Coury Putting Tournament:   David Ontiveros ‘58

Committee Members:   Marv Bain ‘63, Chris Layton ‘62, Jim Baer ‘61, Ed Adams ‘61

4

Brief History of the SchoolFounded in 1950 in Santa Ana, California, Mater Dei High School is one of the country’s largest Catholic co-educational college preparatory high schools.  Emphasizing the holistic development of each student, Mater Dei provides opportunities for growth through leadership, spiritual development, community outreach, and extensive extracurricular and co-curricular programs.   The School opened its doors in 1950 with an enrollment of 111 students. By 1960, Mater Dei’s student population had increased to 1,300 students with a waiting list. Mater Dei added the Drama Department in the 1970’s, and in 1974 produced its first Senior Musical.  Enrollment soon hit 2,200, making Mater Dei the largest Catholic high school west of Chicago. During the 1980’s, Mater Dei broadened its curriculum and further raised academic standards in order to provide the excellent education necessary for students to succeed in college and beyond.  Community service and outreach programs were implemented, making it easier for students to get involved.  On the school's 40th Anniversary in 1990, Father John Weling was named the first President of Mater Dei. Under his leadership, the existing Grotto was transformed to create the park-like atmosphere still enjoyed today.  Additionally, Mater Dei began plans for the MD 2000 Capital Campaign.  In the 2000’s, Phase I of the MD 2000 Capital Campaign funded the construction of a parking lot, the Gordon & Gail Lee Family Chapel and Campus Ministry Center, the Antone & Anna Borchard Family Library, the Academic Services Complex, the Reed & Angela LeVecke Student Activities Complex, and

Shamrock Plaza.  Phase II of the MD 2000 Capital Campaign funded the Rod Dedeaux Stadium at Joe O'Hara Field, Rick’s Track, two new FieldTurf fields, the Meruelo Athletic Center, and the William Lyon Homes Aquatic Center. Completion of Phase II resulted in the first pool on campus in school history, and one of the largest indoor athletic venues in Orange County, seating over 3,000 fans.  Beginning in 2010, additions and upgrades to campus included the Andry Golf Practice Facility, Aquatics Building and Facility expansion, and the Re-Imagined Library and Learning Commons.  Mater Dei High School is proud of its first-class facilities, its traditions of Honor, Glory, and Love, and its quest for excellence under the guidance of our Patroness, Mary, Mother of God.

Most Significant Developments in School Life since the Last Self Study

1:1 Technology InitiativeIn 2011, the 1:1 technology initiative was implemented to enhance student learning and preparation for college and beyond.  Every student and teaching Faculty member utilizes an iPad as part of the educational experience.  As a result of the integration of technology into the curriculum, significant developments have allowed Faculty and students to:

✴ Replace traditional textbooks with e-texts

✴ Replace printed materials with digital versions

5

✴ Provide an organized note-taking platform

✴ Provide an online research tool

✴ Provide a platform to facilitate individual and group work

✴ Provide access to the Blackboard Learning Management System

✴ Provide a platform for video or audio copies of lectures

✴ Provide a platform to access library and academic resources

Re-imagined Library

The new library and "Learning Commons" is a state-of-the-art, comfortable space where students can discover, create, and collaborate with peers. The new features include:

✴A Technology Hub: This new centralized staff desk serves as a reference and circulation desk as well as an iPad help counter.

✴ Retrofitted Study Rooms with movable tables and whiteboards.

✴ Updated and developed library collection and online catalog.

✴ Newly relocated Center for Learning to better assist students with learning differences.

✴ A Learning Commons Classroom with modular desks and chairs, closely resembling a typical college classroom.

✴ Media:Scape for group collaboration: Most collaborative work spaces today support leader-led presentations where information is controlled and shared by one person at a time. Media Scape removes these barriers and democratizes how students access and share information by allowing all participants to contribute their ideas equally, quickly and seamlessly.

✴ Learning Zones: Research 1, Research 2, and Common Area/Lounge.

6

One of the major areas of improvement since the last self-study has been the re-imagined Library and Learning Commons

GALLERY 1.1 School Life

Technology and Infrastructure Upgrades

✴ Implementation of Blackboard Learning Management System facilitating the development of blended courses as well as to allow teachers to post digital content for student consumption.

✴ Audio Visual system updates to the 300, 500, and 600 wing classrooms, which include new NEC projectors, updated Extron controller panels, direct HDMI cable runs, and blu-ray DVD players.  Future funding will complete updates to the 200, 400, and 700 wing classrooms.

✴ Improvements to the network infrastructure which include all 18 of the 10/100 network switches being upgraded to 1000 gig network switches to allow for faster network speed on the wired and wireless networks.  

✴ Full re-design of the Mater Dei website in 2009 and 2012 and a refresh of the website in 2014. Improvements to the website allow for a more user friendly platform by including a new navigation bar, better content organization, and new site features that include news and announcements, a home page photo slide show, a calendar that can be integrated or downloaded into Outlook and iOS devices, and a robust video and photo gallery.  Full redesigns and refreshes are executed based on months of study gathered through Google Analytics and the use of a heatmap indexing program for site analysis provided by CrazyEgg.com.

✴ Implementation of an effective mobile device management system that ensures that all Mater Dei devices are used for educational purposes.

Facility ImprovementsMater Dei has upgraded many areas of campus since the last self-study.  Facility improvements have enriched the experience for both students and Staff.  These improvements include:

✴ Addition of the Aquatics Center

✴ Solar panels in the parking lot and strategically placed roof tops

7

Sentinels of Freedom Memorial

GALLERY 1.2 Facility Improvements

✴ Sound proofing of windows

✴ Redesigned Faculty mail-room

✴ Addition of Sentinels of Freedom Memorial

✴ Addition of Andry Golf Practice Facility

✴ Restructure of the Advancement Office

✴ Redesigned IT Office and Deans Office

✴ Installation of 160 security cameras

✴ Update of the Ward Family Fitness Center

✴ Transformation of the Monarch Pavilion from an Athletic Venue to support the Performing Arts program  

International Student Program Although Mater Dei High School has always had a small population of international students, in 2012 it introduced an official International Student Program and the hiring of a full time International Student Coordinator.  Mater Dei partners with an agency in China to market and secure enrollment of students from China, Taiwan, Macau, and Hong Kong. Students in this International Program differ from our other International population because their program is an all-inclusive package.   In the 2012-2013 school year there were 60 students, growing to 75 students in 2013-2014.  There are currently 85 students participating in the program from China, Vietnam, South Korea, United Arab Emirates, France, Mexico, Japan, and Thailand.  

8

MOTTO: HONOR – GLORY – LOVE

HONOR THE CATHOLIC FAITH AND TRADITION OF MATER

DEI HIGH SCHOOL

GLORY TO GOD AND TO MARY, MOTHER OF GOD, OUR

SCHOOL PATRONESS

LOVE AND COMPASSION TOWARDS EACH PERSON

CHAPTER 2

SCHOOL PURPOSE

Mission Statement

Mater Dei High School, a co-educational college preparatory Diocesan Catholic high school, provides a holistic Catholic education which serves a diverse community of students and recognizes each individual as a gift from God.  Working with the parents/guardians, who are primary educators of their children, the school is dedicated to the development of the whole person: spiritual, intellectual, emotional, physical, social, moral, and creative.  It is the goal of Mater Dei High School to graduate students who become leaders, committed to serving God and society with a profound sense of social justice, founded in love.

 

Philosophy

Mater Dei High School, a co-educational college preparatory Diocesan Catholic high school, is dedicated to the mission of Catholic education as envisioned in church documents and teachings.  In particular, the school is committed to the guidelines established for Catholic education in the document To Teach as Jesus Did.  We recognize parents/guardians as the primary educators of their children. Together, we strive to develop faithful, responsible citizens grounded in gospel values and virtues who are and will continue to be, productive members of church and society.

9

The highly qualified and dedicated Administration, Faculty, and Staff support the students as they strive for excellence in a college preparatory curriculum, which incorporates faith, academics, technology, and skills necessary for lifelong learning.  These concepts are the embodiment of the Integral Student Outcomes, which students learn, understand, and demonstrate by the time they graduate from school.

Mater Dei’s mission and purpose is the development of the whole person: spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, physically, socially, morally, and creatively, while at the same time recognizing the rich diversity of all students.  The school supports and challenges students to develop their full potential within a Catholic educational community.  Through academics, service to others, leadership opportunities, and extensive co-curricular programs, we celebrate the God-given talents of students who attend Mater Dei High School.

Development of Mission Statement and Philosophy

An integrated group was formed to review the existing Mission and Philosophy statements and update them to reflect current standards and expectations. The group included Faculty and Staff from several departments who met periodically. The results of each meeting were recorded on an E3 Process form and forwarded to the WCEA/WASC Coordinator to be included in the data library. This collaborative effort produced revised Mission and Philosophy statements. These statements were discussed, amended, and

approved by the WCEA/WASC Leadership Team. Subsequently, posters with the statements were printed and displayed in every classroom and office. Additionally, the statements are posted on the school’s website, included in the digital Parent/Student Handbook, and placed in school literature.

Integral Student Outcomes (ISOs)

Mater Dei High School provides a holistic Catholic educational program, which emphasizes spiritual, intellectual, emotional, physical, social, moral, and creative endeavors, and promotes enthusiasm for lifelong learning.

1. The Mater Dei High School graduate is a person EDUCATED IN GOSPEL VALUES AND VIRTUES who

✴ exhibits an understanding of and respect for Catholic faith and Tradition.

✴ recognizes and affirms the God-given dignity of each human person.

✴ demonstrates compassion towards others through care and service.

✴ participates in liturgical opportunities, prayer celebrations, and Christian service.

✴ embraces faith, hope, and love as a way of life.

✴uses his/her Catholic education to guide him/her in future endeavors.

10

2. The Mater Dei High School graduate is an EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATOR who

✴ expresses thoughts clearly and correctly in speaking and writing.

✴ articulates ideas effectively both in presentations and interactions with others.

✴ listens attentively and critically.

✴ processes diverse concepts.

✴ understands and employs the arts as a means of expression.

✴ engages in constructive discussion and debate while respecting differing viewpoints.

3. The Mater Dei High School graduate is a RESPONSIBLE DECISION MAKER who

✴ considers a variety of perspectives when drawing conclusions.

✴uses creative and critical thinking skills to solve problems.

✴ weighs consequences and takes responsibility for his/her actions.

✴ is able to make objective and informed decisions.

✴ applies Catholic moral teaching and prayer to life decisions.

4. The Mater Dei High School graduate is a person LITERATE IN INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY who

✴ exhibits a broad understanding of technology and its relevance in our changing world.

✴utilizes a variety of programs, platforms, and applications.

✴ reads and comprehends complex literary and informational texts independently and proficiently.

✴ is responsible for the legal and ethical use of technology and social media.

✴ integrates knowledge of information and technology into higher education and the workplace.

✴identifies, locates, evaluates, and applies information effectively.

5. The Mater Dei High School graduate is a SOCIALLY-RESPONSIBLE CITIZEN who

✴ takes responsibility for his/her own actions.

✴ promotes the common good through positive involvement in the larger community.

✴ respects diversity while learning and working collaboratively and cross-culturally.

11

✴ examines world situations in a critical and logical manner through acts of Christian charity, compassion, and justice.

✴ demonstrates pride and civic responsibility.

✴ understands and applies Catholic social teaching in response to injustice.

Development of ISOs

An integrated group was formed to review and update the existing Expected School-wide Learning Results (ESLRs) to reflect current standards and expectations. The group included Faculty and Staff from several departments who met periodically. The results of each meeting were recorded on an E3 Process form and forwarded to the WCEA/WASC Coordinator to be included in the data library. This collaborative effort produced revised student learning objectives, which became the Integral Student Outcomes (ISOs). The ISOs were discussed, amended, and approved by the WCEA/WASC Leadership Team. Subsequently, posters with the ISOs were printed and displayed in every classroom and office. The ISOs are also posted on the School’s website, included in the digital Parent/Student Handbook, and placed in school literature. Teachers indicate which ISO is addressed in their daily lesson plans. Additionally, a selected ISO is featured during the Daily Announcements which are broadcast school-wide.

12

CHAPTER 3

Self Study ProcessOrganizing for the Work of the Self Study

The Administrative Board selected one of the Guidance Counselors, as the WCEA/WASC Coordinator. When he accepted the position, the counselor attended training on the E3 process and also served on the visiting WCEA/WASC E3 team for Servite High School. In the spring and summer of 2013, the integrated groups were formed with Faculty and Staff being invited to select their preferred group in so far as this was possible. The following leaders were chosen for the different integrated groups and accepted the position.

13

Group A:Catholic Identity

Helen Steves and Jeni Dennin (Helen Steves and Kendra Hart as of 9/14)

Group B: School Organization

StandardsLewis Francis

Group C: Teaching and Learning

Standards

Geri Campeau and Melissa Rydjeski (Kyle Roberts as of 4/14)

Group D: Student Support Standards Diana Neustadt and Kellie Bauer

Group E: Material Stewardship

StandardsSteve Ritter

Survey Team Ali Bergeron and Myra Castro

Intro to School/School History Tia Meza

Mission/Philosophy & ISO’s Jeff Diulio

During spring 2013, the Leadership Team received training on the E3 process from the Superintendent of Catholic Schools, Diocese of Orange. Minimum days were scheduled for integrated groups to meet and coordinate the gathering of data for their data library or, if completed, to read over other groups’ completed libraries. Home groups were identified as the departments led by the department chairs. During the 2013-14 school year the integrated groups met to gather data, compile the data libraries, create and administer surveys, compose Chapter I, and revise the Mission/Philosophy and ISOs. In addition, the Leadership Team met regularly to review data libraries and changes to the Mission/Philosophy and ISOs. The WCEA/WASC Coordinator gave progress updates and/or instructions at Principal Leadership Committee meetings throughout the year. For each meeting, an E3 process form was completed.

In the spring of 2014 certain personnel changes took place at MDHS which necessitated a change in the leadership of Groups A and C. Then, in September 2014, the WCEA/WASC Coordinator moved to a public high school, and the Chair of the Religious Studies Department, and one of our English teachers graciously agreed to be the new Coordinators of the WCEA/WASC E3 process.

From September 2014 forward, the WCEA/WASC Coordinators met at least once a week to review completed and in-progress work, identify areas in need of additional data, and revise the report as necessary. They also met with the Principal and Assistant Principal/Academic Services, to

discuss the process and writing of the report as well as establishing a timeline. Through these collaborations, it was determined that a second round of surveys needed to be administered and analyzed. In the fall of 2014, Faculty and Staff new to MDHS were added to the Integrated Groups. A schedule of meetings and deadlines was established for the Leadership Team, integrated groups, and home groups. Home groups and integrated groups met to continue to collect data, map curriculum, and/or begin analyzing data, writing up the analysis of the data, and comprising areas of strength and growth. The Leadership Team met regularly to review work from the integrated groups. The response to the Action Plan from the previous WCEA/WASC visit was written and subsequently reviewed by the Leadership Team. Work continued on writing the findings reports, including strengths and areas of growth, and the development of the Educational Improvement Plan.

14

CHAPTER 4

FindingsIntegrated Group A: Catholic Identity

STANDARD 1: Catholic Purpose STANDARD 2: Worship STANDARD 3: Religion Curriculum STANDARD 4: Religion Teachers

STANDARD 5: Partnership with Parents

STANDARD 6: Service Orientation

STANDARD 7: Signs and Symbols

STANDARD 8: Religious Engagement of All

SECTION A

Catholic Identity

After reviewing the the Mater Dei High School Mission Statement, Philosophy, and Integral Student Outcomes (ISOs) it was observed that they clearly affirm the parents as primary educators, that each student is a gift from God, and that the ISOs connect with our Mission and Philosophy to develop well-rounded scholars and citizens.  The Mission Statement, Philosophy, and ISOs are well-known and understood by the MDHS community.  They are prominently displayed throughout campus, they are communicated through the website and handbooks, they are reviewed at the beginning of the year with all Faculty and Staff, and they are reflected in teachers’ lesson plans throughout the year. In addition, every subject on campus shares in the responsibility of integrating Catholic content into lessons and discussions in class, however the depth of this integration varies from department to department and even within each department.  Data regarding the percent of Faculty which is Catholic, alongside the reasonably high student perception of teachers’ appreciation and respect of the school’s Catholic identity, demonstrates that teachers of all faiths participate respectfully in supporting the School’s and Diocese’s policies.  

At MDHS, all departments on campus work together as a unit to ensure regular opportunities for students to experience prayer, retreats, and the Sacraments.  One survey reflects not all teachers consistently lead prayer at the beginning of every class period, however in flipped classrooms, prayers are student-led, which could play a role in the survey results.  We provide several occasions for participating in the Sacraments

16

such as through Masses, Reconciliation Services, and through the Retreat Program.  Worship is a key priority at Mater Dei High School; therefore the Administration, Faculty, and Staff implemented a revised schedule to make All School Masses, Reconciliation Services, retreats, and daily prayer available to the entire School community.  In keeping with our philosophy of parents being the primary educators, we invite parents to participate in numerous opportunities for spiritual growth such as attending Mass at MDHS, attending interactive and informational parent evenings of preparation and prayer for retreats, service trips, summer spiritual leadership, Christmas at the Corner, and other opportunities.

All courses taught in the Religious Studies Department are in compliance with the Doctrinal Elements of a Curriculum Framework set forth by the USCCB and incorporate the Safe Environment Curriculum given by the Diocese that promotes the moral, intellectual, and faith formation of students.  According to the USCCB, “catechesis is the act of handing on the Word of God intended to inform the faith community about the teachings of Christ, transmitted by the Apostles to the Church. Catechesis also involves the lifelong effort of forming people into witnesses to Christ and opening their hearts to the spiritual transformation given by the Holy Spirit” (usccb.org).  While students show their proficiency in knowledge of the Catholic faith as demonstrated by their semester exams, the freshman level is currently developing a pilot for a project-based semester assessment in order to give the opportunity for students to incorporate what they have

learned into their lives.  All Religious Studies teachers meet the requirements set forth by the Diocese, are practicing Catholics with an active faith life, have a strong foundation in Catholic theology, and continue their theological and faith formation.

Through the Mater Dei Christian Service Program (CSP), students are provided a structured program in which they can better understand the reality of service to others. Ideally, the CSP allows our students to experience Christianity in a dynamic way by actively participating in a wide variety of community service opportunities. The response rate to the CSP and the CSP reflections by senior students indicate that the students overwhelmingly feel their service is a reflection of the call Jesus presents to them to live out their faith.

Catholic signs and symbols are clearly visible and evident throughout our School.  Through the WCEA self-study process, updates on the Catholic Identity portion were brought to the Spiritual Formation Committee on a monthly basis.  Out of these conversations, it was suggested that we could improve on signs and symbols during the liturgical seasons.  Beginning with Advent 2014, a modern Advent wreath was built and displayed in the Grotto and Jesse Trees were put in various public spaces throughout campus.  MDHS has plans for the Stations of the Cross in the grotto during Lent.  There are many visible symbols of Mary, our patroness, found throughout campus and MDHS celebrates and honors her throughout the year in Masses and through the School’s Alma Mater.

17

Areas of Strength:

✴ The School incorporates the Mission Statement and Philosophy into the daily practices of the Mater Dei Community.

✴ The School Community makes a commitment to make prayer and worship a priority. 

✴ Faculty, Staff, and Alumni are involved in the Retreat Program and Worship.

✴ The Campus Ministry Department develops the retreats so that there is a depth and scaffolding of all levels of spirituality.

✴ A large percentage of students take advantage of the Retreat Program.

✴There is a team effort between Religious Studies and Campus Ministry Personnel in offering students opportunities to grow in their faith through study, worship, and retreats.

✴All Religious Studies curricula conform to the Bishops’ Framework and provide instruction in units set forth by the Local Ordinary such as Internet safety and Safe Environment.

✴ The Religious Studies Department collaborates both departmentally and by grade levels for the development of core questions for the semester exams.

✴ The Religious Studies Department collaborates between grade levels to review work on each level for curriculum content and instruction (activities, projects, assessments).

✴ All Religious Studies teachers meet professional qualifications to teach religion, demonstrate a strong theological foundation in Catholic theology, and continue their theological and faith formation through a variety of professional development opportunities.

✴ Parents are invited to be a part of the liturgies, award ceremonies, extracurricular, and co-curricular events, so that a high percentage of parents are perceived as appreciating the Catholic identity of the School.

✴The CSP is geared for total student involvement and has clearly outlined curriculum-based requirements and expectations.

✴ The CSP offers extensive volunteer opportunities within the acceptable guidelines, so that students may serve in the community of their choice, individually or as a group.

✴ Students may access their CSP through the Aeries portal, keeping their hours transparent and easily accessible.

✴ The School grounds have a prominent display of Catholic signs, focused around the cross of the Chapel, which is placed in the center of the campus.

✴ The School participates in annual celebrations of our patroness, Mary the Mother of God, twice a year through

18

Mass, and informally through a wide variety of prayer experiences.

✴ The co-curricular programs of Mater Dei maintain a dedication to Catholic Identity, service, and practice.

✴ Teachers of all faiths show a high respect for the Catholic faith.

Areas for Growth:

✴ The Religious Studies Department will continue to implement project-based and/or varied methods of learning assessments in order for students to apply the knowledge they have gained to the world and their lives.

✴ Campus Ministry, along with Administration and the Religious Studies Department, will develop a means of providing more visible symbols reflecting liturgical seasons in prominent places on campus, such as the Grotto (Stations of the Cross during Lent, an Advent wreath during Advent, etc.).

✴ There needs to be resources available to help all Faculty and Staff increase their depth and consistency of the Catholic Identity as well as to understand the ownership and priority for prayer/worship in all aspects of the School community.  

19

SECTION B

School OrganizationThe Diocese perceives Mater Dei’s responsiveness to all of its policies, concerns and requests is to a great extent indicating a strong relationship between the two. The Board/Council, Administration, and Faculty/Staff all rated Mater Dei high in regards to living out our Mission and Philosophy, showing that we are staying true to our beliefs.  To live out our Mission, our Administration strives to provide support for low income families to maintain the diversity of our campus. In addition, our Administration and Faculty/Staff continue to develop methods of maintaining our Mission/Philosophy by evaluating and improving parent communication and expectations, building IT infrastructure, and dealing with new student discipline issues as a result of the increase in use of social media.   Our Staff also views their work as a reflection of the School’s Mission and Philosophy, creating a cohesive theme across the campus.  

We have a very effective process in place for both hiring and evaluating all personnel, so that we maintain a highly professional and educated Staff.  Over half of our Teaching Faculty have Master’s Degrees, and two have Doctorate Degrees. They are committed to their professional development by consistently attending workshops, conferences, and webinars, though these hours are not always recorded once teachers have met their necessary five units.   

The organizational structure in place is optimum for the realization of the religious and educational objectives of the School. The lines of authority and accountability are made clear through a flow chart and the job descriptions for

20

INTEGRATED GROUP B – SCHOOL

ORGANIZATION

STANDARD 1: GOVERNANCE

STANDARD 2: ADMINISTRATION

STANDARD 3: INSTRUCTIONAL PERSONNEL

STANDARD 4: SUPPORT STAFF

STANDARD 5: ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

Administrators, Faculty, Coaches, and support Staff. The School's committees meet on a weekly and monthly basis, where personnel collaborate, coordinate, and discuss issues related to all areas of the school.  Out of these discussions, it was determined to instigate a Modified Block Schedule, which included a regularly scheduled Office Hour to allow additional opportunities for learning and for students to receive one-on-one instruction, providing optimal learning.  To add to this, we recognize the Parent as the Primary Educator through a multitude of external and internal communications to provide a healthy learning environment for all.  

Areas of Strength:

✴ The Board/Council perceives that Mater Dei fulfills its School Mission to a great extent.

✴ The Superintendent of Catholic Schools, Diocese of Orange ranks Mater Dei’s responsiveness to Diocesan policies, concerns, and requests to a great extent.

✴ Mater Dei has an effective and valid method of hiring and evaluating all personnel so as to create and maintain a strong and healthy working environment.

✴ All of the Faculty are highly qualified by holding a credential and/or a Master’s or higher degree in their subject area.

✴ Administration provides professional development opportunities to allow Faculty to stay current with best practices in respective curricula, provide Faculty with spiritual, physical, and emotional guidance, and support their growth in methodology.

✴ The Support Staff has a high retention rate, providing years of experience in their respective fields.  

✴ The Support Staff’’s  perception of the significance of their work in relation to the accomplishment of the School’s mission is to a great extent.

✴ The communication methods with parents and students is varied enough to provide access to information by the most convenient means for any given individual.

Areas for Growth:

✴ As a community, continue to develop excellence in the application of educational technology within the classroom with sufficient professional development opportunities.

21

INTEGRATED GROUP C – TEACHING AND

LEARNING

STANDARD 1: CURRICULUM/WHAT STUDENTS

LEARN

STANDARD 2: INSTRUCTION/HOW STUDENTS LEARN

STANDARD 3: ASSESSMENT

STANDARD 4: REPORTING STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT

INSTRUCTION/HOW STUDENTS LEARN

SECTION C

Teaching and LearningMater Dei values and upholds all areas of student learning.  Our curriculum is current and is reflective of Common Core State Standards (CCSS),  utilizing the Rubicon Atlas curriculum planning system. The graduation requirements at Mater Dei further support the systematic and sequential curriculum by requiring students to take a structured course load throughout their four years of attendance.  Through the Mater Dei High School Course Catalog, students have direct access to the departmental prerequisites for all levels of classes, including the specific alignments to the UC/CSU college and university system.  Mater Dei has a strong reputation for academic rigor.

Mater Dei is in the process of adopting Professional Learning Communities (PLC), to aide in collaboration both within each department and across all disciplines.  Our meetings focus on technology integration, best practices, updating textbooks to e-books, and instructional and assessment methodologies. Discussions revolve around how potential changes are informed by the ISOs. Out of this collaboration, we have determined a need to align our English classes to provide cross-collaboration opportunities with the Social Studies department, as well as a need to research the possibility of restructuring the math and science curricula to create more consistency between the two disciplines.  The Faculty believes that the ISOs are not only an integral part of lesson planning, but are also utilized during the assessment process. In regards to the instructional methodologies used by teachers in the classroom, the data indicates that the most common methods

22

are teacher presentation, iPad/Blackboard supported instruction, group work, individual work/homework, and dialogue between instructors and students.  Some of these methods are more effective when used in specific types of classes, but on a whole they are the major techniques used at the school.  The most common technological tools used include iPad, Blackboard, and projector connected to computer/iPad.  

Every student and Faculty member utilizes an Apple iPad, which is integrated across all disciplines, as well as in our many extracurricular programs. As a School, we are committed to continuously evaluating our use of technology so as to remain on the forefront in regards to the implementation of technology in education.  Therefore, teacher lesson plans reflect all modes of  instructional methodologies and are also noted in the course syllabi.  The Schools’ annual reviews (teacher performance review, teacher observations, and student academic performance review) help to inform best practices for instructional methodology in each academic discipline. Based on the survey data, the overall consensus from the Faculty is that small group, one-on-one, and hands-on professional development trainings are very useful.

Each department at Mater Dei uses a variety of formative assessments to obtain data on student learning.  Students and teachers believe that the assessments are effective in determining students’ progress toward learning goals as well as indicating any need for adjusting teacher instruction.

Students’ performances on (comprehensive) course exams given at the end of the semester are aggregated to reflect a departmental average. Departments have moved towards analyzing comprehensive semester examination results and disaggregating them by grade level to make changes based on student performance. This process is effective overall, though some departments are more responsive to student performance and how that evidence can affect instructional planning and delivery, than others.

Mater Dei regularly reports student achievement throughout the course of a semester. The Aeries grade portal allows the parents/students to view the assignment, points earned and total possible for each assignment, completion dates, and any other notes that a teacher includes. In addition, we also publish lists of students receiving Honors through many of our modes of communication.  The school maintains a well-informed governing body who regularly communicates achievements, outcomes, and accomplishments with all stakeholders, including the Diocese.

Areas of Strength:

✴ Teachers send out unofficial progress reports when a student is missing two or more assignments or as deemed necessary  (i.e. grade below a certain percentage) to help remediate situations before a student becomes in danger of failing a particular course.

23

✴ The School regularly posts student achievements through various mediums of communication to allow the whole Mater Dei Community to celebrate student academic success.

✴ Formative assessments vary between content areas, therefore the students experience a variety of assessments, which they consider to be very effective.

✴ Student’s perception of fairness of grading is consistent throughout all departments.

✴ Each department reviews level core questions, analyzes semester exams and core questions, and maintains an on-going analysis of curriculum and instruction.

✴ Each department utilizes diverse strategies across the curriculum indicating that teachers are teaching to various multiple intelligence and emphasizing 21st Century Skills (communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking).

✴ The School’s technological infrastructure supports many varied methods of learning.

✴ The School provides a professional development budget and opportunities to support teachers in learning new teaching methodologies.

✴ The curriculum has a logical structure to help students graduate and build upon their knowledge systematically.  This curriculum is outlined in the Course Catalog, which provides

clear descriptions of all courses for students, Staff, and parents.

✴ Many higher-level courses are offered for students who want to be challenged; conversely support is offered for lower-achieving students to provide opportunities for success.

✴ The Mater Dei graduation requirements and course offerings expose students to a more holistic approach to education, which includes the Religious Studies and community service commitments, as well as being aligned with the CSU/UC system.

✴ Committees meet regularly (weekly and monthly) to monitor and discuss curriculum.

Areas for Growth:

✴ Departments, through the collaboration provided by the PLC process, should continue to evaluate assessments for quality of gauging student learning including a more formal analysis of data such as PSAT scores, semester exams, and midterm reports, both as a level and as a department.

✴ We have determined a need to align our English classes to provide cross-collaboration opportunities with the Social Studies department, as well as a need to research the possibility of restructuring the math and science curricula to create more consistency between the two disciplines.

24

✴As the School continues with the implementation of the PLC process, protocols for collecting evidence of intra and inter-department collaboration will be explored, and if necessary determine how these collaborations may be expanded to benefit the students.

✴ Teachers will continue to be cognizant of instructional methods that advance student problem solving skills, particularly in the core subjects.

✴ Departments will continue to evaluate their curriculum, focusing on the implementation of the CCSS.

✴ Administration, in collaboration with the Guidance and Counseling Center, will discuss and  determine if there is a need expand the Mater Dei graduation requirements to include Visual and Performing Arts to align with the UC system’s requirements.

25

SECTION D

Student Support

INTEGRATED GROUP D - STUDENT SUPPORT

STANDARD 1: SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT

STANDARD 2: ACADEMIC SUPPORT

STANDARD 3: CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMS

STANDARD 4: COLLEGE MATRICULATION

Over 75% of the Student population perceives that Mater Dei High School is a physically and emotionally safe place for them.  To ensure this, Mater Dei has developed an Emergency Preparedness Plan that covers the School’s policies and plans for different types of drills. In addition, Mater Dei maintains a secure premise by keeping all campus gates locked during school hours and providing 24 hour Security, as well as updating our campus-wide cameras, though there is a need to establish a protocol for emergencies before and after school. In other areas of safety, all Religious Studies courses incorporate the Diocesan Internet Safety Curriculum, which was developed to instruct the students with proper and safe use of the Internet.

The school provides academic support services sufficient to meet the learning needs of all students, offering a range of classes from remedial to Advanced Placement.  Teachers are available for students beyond classroom hours in order to assist them with their academic work.  Other resources include the Educational Achievement Program (EAP), a fully staffed technology department, skill building programs, tutoring programs, and an ESL cultural class for International students.  90% of the parents of students with learning differences perceive that their students’ needs are met to a moderate extent (5.46), while 82% of the Faculty feels that students use academic support services to a moderate extent (4.76) indicating teachers would like to see these programs utilized more efficiently. Since Mater Dei continuously evaluates methods to implement state-of-the-art technological

26

learning tools, the Center for Learning now utilizes a variety of learning programs, such as Read Naturally,  to provide further instruction for designated students.

In accordance with our ISOs, Mater Dei provides ample opportunities for our students to prepare themselves to be responsible leaders and effective members of society, as seen through our  various counseling services, our co-curricular programs, our Christian Service programs,  and our clubs.  Each of these organizations has significant participation, though it would be ideal to find a means to collect data on how many students participate in multiple activities.   Both parents and students find these programs to be of high quality.  Many of Mater Dei’s co-curricular programs require parent volunteers to sell tickets, organize events, and work events (organized by the Parent Activities Council), without which these programs would not be as successful as they are.  

Mater Dei High School provides a multitude of college preparatory courses, activities, and college related support services.  Currently, we offer college planning services at each level, and we are looking at ways to communicate these services more effectively to our sophomores and juniors.   To aid in college matriculation, our College and Counseling Center provides numerous opportunities for our students to interact with representatives of colleges from all around the nation during lunchtime and at our annual College Planning Night. Overall, we feel we have an effective plan in place as 99% of our students matriculate to 4 year universities, 2 year

junior colleges/community colleges, military school, and vocational schools.

Areas of Strength:

✴ The Guidance and Counseling Center has an effective program in place to meet with and discuss high school, college, and career planning with students grades 9-12.

✴ Mater Dei offers a variety of opportunities for students to help prepare for their future such as Career Day, College Night at Mater Dei, Jesuit College Night, college visitations and trips, and lunchtime visits from college representatives.

✴ Students and families have twenty four hour access to college prep information through Naviance.

✴ Mater Dei has a comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Plan and an extensive security monitoring system which includes school-wide surveillance cameras; student, Staff, and Faculty ID cards; 24-hour security; and a closed campus.

✴ To accommodate the learning of all students, Mater Dei High School implements a variety of tools such as the Office Hour, and the many programs provided by the Center for Learning.

✴ The Faculty and Counselors are dedicated to providing students support in and out of the classroom through individual meetings and individual/small group tutoring sessions.

27

✴ Student participation in co-curricular programs is high, demonstrating Mater Dei’s dedication to developing the whole child.

✴ The support from the parents is extensive, allowing the School to continue with quality, successful co-curricular programs.

✴ The School offers a multitude of co-curricular programs to provide for diverse interests.

Areas for Growth:

✴ Administration, along with the Advancement Office, will create a means to collect longitudinal college graduation data from Alumni to assist in providing the most up-to-date resources for our current students.

✴ As Departments continue to assess and develop the college preparatory curriculum, the School should explore a means of collecting quantifiable data from Alumni regarding college formative and summative assessments.

✴ Administration will find an effective manner in which to establish and communicate roles and responsibilities for Mater Dei Staff and security regarding before and after school security protocols (i.e. who to call in case of an emergency, student situations, accidents, etc.).

✴ The attendance data for the EAP services needs to be more effectively monitored so that Counselors can follow-up with students and provide academic interventions.

✴ As a School, develop a means for the Guidance and Counseling Center to more effectively communicate the vast resources of Naviance and EAP to the students.

✴ Mater Dei is dedicated to fostering the needs of the whole child, therefore, quantifiable data should be collected on students who participate in multiple programs to promote Mater Dei as a holistic school.

28

SECTION E

Material Stewardship

INTEGRATED GROUP E - MATERIAL

STEWARDSHIP

STANDARD 1: ENROLLMENT RESOURCES

STANDARD 2: CLASSROOM & INSTRUCTIONAL

RESOURCES

STANDARD 3: PLANT RESOURCES

STANDARD 4: FUNDING RESOURCES (I.E., REVENUE

GENERATING)

STANDARD 5: BUSINESS OPERATIONS

STANDARD 6: PROMOTIONAL OPERATIONS

STANDARD 7: STRATEGIC MATERIAL

Mater Dei High School takes a holistic approach to the admission of each individual. This mirrors the Mission and Philosophy of the School, which seeks to develop the complete individual; spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotional, and artistic. Tuition assistance greatly impacts the overall enrollment, which is comprised of a racially, ethnically, and socioeconomically diverse group of students.  Approximately 40% of students receive financial aid, which also reflects our commitment to honor our Mission and Philosophy.  The Business office and Management Board determines tuition rates based on enrollment, salary scale, and budget numbers.  To aid in the budgeting process, the annual School Auction Committee works year round to produce a quality event; this has grossed over one million dollars over the past three years. In addition, The MDHS Advancement Office continuously seeks out contributions and donations for third-source income sources. The last calendar school year showed growth in the areas of grants, and the funding continues to grow through an increased online footprint, multi-media presentations, and marketing efforts.

Over 50% of the School’s annual operating budget is determined by employee salary and benefits and therefore these are a key factor in determining the budget. Mater Dei has an extensive review process during the budget process and throughout the year to analyze monthly financial statements and delinquent accounts. Over the last 20 years, Mater Dei has produced a balanced budget and a year-end

29

surplus. The school has not had to borrow money or tap reserves to meet Operational Budget expenses.

The reputation of Mater Dei’s academics and extracurricular programs continuously draw students from throughout Southern California and abroad. Mater Dei’s relationships with its partner/feeder schools are extremely healthy as evidenced by the 14 on and off campus articulation sessions that Mater Dei hosts annually. Because Orange County is inundated with private/charter school choices, Mater Dei must work diligently to stay relevant within the community.

One way we achieve this goal is by continually striving to implement and maintain up-to-date materials and technological resources.  With our continuing growth in technology, we recognized the need to increase our Technology Team to five, each member with a different focus or expertise.   The Educational Technology Personnel developed a three-year budget plan to ensure the continuance of the technological infrastructure and the expansion of the infrastructure as needed to support the technological growth.  

In regards to the campus, the facilities, buildings, and grounds of Mater Dei High School are clean and well maintained and the school premises provide an attractive learning environment.  The school identifies and funds facilities upgrades and construction to support both curricular and co-curricular programs.  As our community continues to approach maximum capacity, we need to look at expansion of property and funding for said expansion.

Mater Dei High School has a variety of mediums through which they engage and inform parents, Alumni, benefactors, and friends. The School website, Blackboard Connect (all school mass communication system), Naviance (college planning and communication system), Net Community/Blackbaud (e-commerce/e-mail system), Scarlet and Gray digital magazine, Mane Message blog, social media outlets, and electronic/print ads are the methods that reach the most people regardless of their relationship to Mater Dei. Please click here for a comprehensive list.   

Internally, the School website is the most convenient and efficient way of sharing and receiving information. Mater Dei has greatly diversified their mediums for sharing information, relying on both tangible and electronic tools. Social media outlets such as Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn are easily accessible by anyone interested in receiving information from Mater Dei. Those in the School’s governance body who provide oversight and review of promotional operations ensure a professional and quality perception of Mater Dei.

Mater Dei High School exercises responsible material planning for our future. We continually search for ways to improve our facilities so as to better serve our students, as seen through our current projects of a parking structure and Performing Arts Center, both of which will enhance the educational and extracurricular experience for Mater Dei’s students.

30

Areas of Strength:

✴ Mater Dei has a worldwide reputation for excellence (academic, co-curricular, and extracurricular).

✴ The School provides a high quality and quantity of technological resources which the teachers and students use to enhance the learning experience.

✴ The School provides ample Staff to maintain the classroom and facilities, so that the entire campus provides an attractive and safe learning and working environment.

✴ The School has a successful system in place for tuition collection, annual fundraising special events, and the capital and endowment campaigns as a means to keeping the community diverse and securing a sound budget.

✴ Mater Dei High School has provided a balanced budget and year-end surplus over the last 20+ years, has reserve funds, an endowment, and has not had to borrow money or tap into those reserves to meet operational budget expenses.

✴ The School’s website is a valuable/ attractive/ useful tool for communicating necessary information and celebrating student achievement.

✴ Mater Dei uses a variety of methods to communicate and build relationships with key groups to foster enrollment and engender donor support.

✴ The Administration, along with the Office of Advancement & Alumni, has a conscientious plan to provide continued growth in enrollment, as well as long range plans to ensure the continued success and development of the whole School.

Areas for Growth:

✴ The Office of Advancement & Alumni will continue to grow our Tuition Assistance/Financial Aid program through a variety of funding sources (foundations, individual donors, and the Monarch Legacy Endowment Fund) for need-based financial aid.  

✴ As the School continues to stay on the forefront in the implementation of technological tools, it is necessary to provide opportunities to improve the Faculty's use of these technological tools as well as to continue training on new technological products and resources.

✴ The School will continue upgrading facilities to address and accommodate existing and future technological needs.  In addition, the School will investigate future school site expansion to meet existing program needs and future school-wide initiatives.

✴ The Office of Advancement & Alumni will continue to grow and diversify national funding sources (ie, grant opportunities), as well as the Planned Giving and Legacy Endowment Fund for use to maintain/expand our tuition assistance and building maintenance.

31

✴ With the prominence of social media as the main form of communication, the School will continue to implement a diversity of social medias by growing online momentum, followers, and conversation within the online community.

32

CHAPTER 5

Educational Improvement PlanImplementation of 2009 Plan

Current Educational Improvement Plan

SECTION A

Implementation of 2009 Plan

Critical Area of Growth #1. Further develop ways to measure student achievement of the ESLRs:

Throughout the curriculum and in co and extra-curricular activities, students, in conjunction with their instructors, continue to gain an understanding of the ESLRs (now referred to as ISOs).  In lesson planning, teachers consistently reference the particular ESLRs/ISOs. As a result of this, the appropriate ESLR/ISO is addressed throughout the particular lesson in which the students are actively engaged. Examples of the integration of the ESLRs/ISOs into curriculum are the following:

ESLR/ISO #1: The Mater Dei High School graduate is a person EDUCATED IN GOSPEL VALUES AND VIRTUES

While it may be difficult to measure student achievement of this ESLR, MD students demonstrate a deep understanding of Gospel Values when they:

✴ Pray each day in class and attend prayer and liturgical celebrations.

✴ Attend school-wide, class and extra-curricular group Masses and liturgical celebrations.

✴ Participate in grade level retreats which enable them to grow in their religious faith.

✴ Involve themselves in service projects for the local, national, and global community.

✴ Complete four years of formal Religious Studies instruction following the framework set by the USCCB in the Doctrinal Elements of a Curriculum Framework.

✴ Design and present cross-curricular projects which reflect Gospel values.

✴ Participate in social justice projects and acts to bring justice to those in need. For example: Rachel’s Challenge Club; Thanksgiving and Christmas Outreach; Leadership opportunities through Campus Ministry and Activities; Christmas at the Corner; Project Discourse; Chapman University Holocaust Art and Writing Contest; Museum of Tolerance Field Trips, Special Games, and many other types of outreach projects.

34

ESLR/ISO #2: The Mater Dei High School graduate is an EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATOR

Communication skills are an integral part of a student’s education at this School. In all of the courses, students are required to analyze, articulate, and communicate ideas and data related to the specific subject area. In addition, students are required to demonstrate effective communication skills in the writing of essays and research projects. Student presentations using the most current technological applications demand effective communication both in verbal articulation, writing, and technology. Further evidence of students as effective communicators is demonstrated in the following activities or events:

✴Senior participation in small group discussions regarding completion of their Christian Service commitment.

✴ School participation in Project Discourse,a cross cultural communication experience where discussion in all disciplines centers around a common  topic.

✴ Student participation in Chapman Holocaust Art and Writing Contest.

✴ The Science Department has developed a partnership with St. Joseph’s Orange, CA starting with the 2011-2012 school year to present an opportunity for Honors Anatomy students to explore modern surgical technology with the DaVinci robot. Students also meet with surgical

doctors about the use of this technology and learn about medical careers.

✴ Online classroom Discussion Boards, Blogs, Wikis, and Journals accessed through Blackboard are used regularly in most disciplines.

✴ Clubs such as Mock Trial, Model United Nations (MUN), Academic Decathlon, Junior Statesman of America, Speech and Debate, Cappies, etc., allow students to compete with students around the county and the state.

✴ School-wide Writing Assessment conducted in the English Department is used to evaluate writing skills.

✴ Video conferencing assignments and projects between World Language classes and Religious Studies classes with teachers and students in South America as well as other countries

ESLR/ISO #3: The Mater Dei High School graduate is a RESPONSIBLE DECISION MAKER

Throughout the School, students have opportunities to demonstrate responsible decision making. They are encouraged to consider a wide variety of perspectives in the decision making process related to curriculum and study, athletics and the arts, and growth in their religious faith. They are constantly encouraged to be effective and positive leaders in today’s world. The School supports the students in their

35

decision making with a well communicated discipline program into which is integrated an effective drug testing program intended to give additional support to students when confronted with decisions related to the consumption of illegal drugs. Responsible decision making is also measured by the level of student participation in the following activities:

✴ Leadership and membership in Athletics and Activities clubs.

✴ Offices which students hold in ASB, Athletics, Campus Ministry, and Performing Arts.

✴ Points-of-view and opinions expressed in classroom discussions on issues of social justice.

✴ The “Gotcha Card” program which provides incentives and rewards to students who demonstrate responsible decision making.

✴ College Planning, College Application, and seeking Financial Aid services.

✴ High retention of student population due to responsible decision making.

ESLR/ISO #4: The Mater Dei High School graduate is a person LITERATE IN INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY

The responsible use of media and technology is central to the education of a Mater Dei High School student. Each

classroom is equipped with state-of-the art technology for the use of both students and teachers. Effective with the beginning of the 2011-2012 school year, each student and teacher received an iPad 2 for use throughout the curriculum, and beginning in September 2014 the iPads were updated to iPad Air or iPad4, which allows for more data storage. Technology is incorporated into the School’s life through the various means:

✴ Students and teachers have also been issued the apps of the iWorks suite and students have access to the MD App Catalog which contains over 500 approved educational apps.

✴ The integration of the iPad into curriculum allows for students use of e-texts and a variety of differentiated learning platforms in most courses, complete homework in an online format, and present state-of-the-art presentations on different topics in their classes.

✴ In 2012 the School adopted Blackboard (A Learning Management System) which is used in over 85% of colleges and universities.  This platform is used by Faculty, Staff, Administration, students, and parents as a form of communication in regards to assignments, homework, and upcoming events.  

✴ Students use of Naviance and Parchment for communication and registration with the various colleges and universities to which they may be applying is a further indication of technology literacy.

36

✴ The Center for Learning has been upgraded to include the use of Reading Comprehension programs such as Fast ForWord, Accelerated Reader, Read Naturally and other programs.  

✴ In 2011-2012, the Science Department started a competitive Robotics Team with F.I.R.S.T. (For Inspiration and Recognition in Science and Technology).

ESLR/ISO #5: The Mater Dei High School graduate is a SOCIALLY-RESPONSIBLE CITIZEN

This ESLR is reflected and demonstrated in the decision making process as evidenced in response to #3 above. In addition students demonstrate socially responsible citizenship through their work in the following areas:

✴ Lions Share (preparation of food for the less fortunate in the local community).

✴ Special Games (annual school event where students work with special athletes).

✴ Chuckles for Charity (comedy club where students perform to raise money for local charities).

✴ Monarchs 4 Marines (football team and dance team interact with children of Marines who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan from Camp Pendleton).

✴ Recycling Program (under the guidance of Faculty, students establish and maintain a “green campus”).

✴ Student tutoring program (peer student tutoring which students access during lunch and after school in the Guidance and Counseling office).

✴ Rachel’s Challenge (a club with the goal of educating students toward responsible citizenship and ways to deal with bullying and other types of inappropriate behaviors).

✴ Class of 2014 completed nearly 80,000 volunteer hours at hundreds of organizations – an average of 160 hours per student.

Action Plan # 1/ Critical Area of Growth #2. Articulation, development, and implementation of cross-curricular standards, skills, and rubrics.

Throughout the School, department chairs, curriculum committee members, and all teachers continue to work on the articulation, development, and implementation of cross-curricular standards, skills, and rubrics. Within specific subjects, major adjustments have been made to ensure that students have every opportunity for success. Examples of this are evident in the use of similar assignments within a subject, rubrics used for completion of assignments, assessments, and end of semester exams. Since the beginning of Sept 2014, the School schedule has been altered to create a collaboration period for teachers one morning a week.  This time is utilized to share lessons, review teaching strategies, and build a common curriculum. In addition, the School continuously

37

addresses new forms of assessment, as provided through Professional Learning Community (PLC) training.  

Action Plan # 2. Formalization of a targeted school-wide professional development plan which will focus on the principles of lesson design, incorporating current best practices and research in the field of education.

Mater Dei continuously strives to be a front runner when it comes to designing lessons to meet our students’ needs.  To do so, teachers have attended various workshops which focus on the components of lesson design such as Curriculum Mapping, PLC workshops, Computer Using Educators (CUE) conferences, Blackboard World, and International Society for Technology Education (ISTE) conventions.  Through these workshops and in-services, we have adapted the focus of our lessons to be more about assessing skills as opposed to memorization, as is reflected in the requirements reflected on Atlas Rubicon.  Lesson plans are placed in a collaborative folder on Blackboard, making our objectives transparent to each other, allowing for further discussion among teachers.

Administration is supportive in exploring new methodologies, and many departments have instituted a peer coaching session where teachers are free to observe each other, followed by discussion and analysis.  

Critical Area of Growth #3On-going professional development for Faculty and Staff.

Through the Office of the Assistant Principal/Faculty Services, there is a school-wide professional development plan established for all Faculty and Staff. During the past three years, professional development for Faculty and Staff has centered around the integration of technology into all areas of curriculum and the introduction of the iPad to both Faculty and students. Click here for a list of professional growth opportunities provided to Faculty and Staff during the past six years.

Action Plan #3/ Critical Area of Growth #4

Continued Growth of the Monarch Legacy Endowment program to keep the cost of Mater Dei education within the financial grasp of those who choose Mater Dei, providing support for competitive Faculty/Staff salaries, and sustain capitalization of technological advancements.

Since 2012, we have taken a very aggressive approach to growing the Monarch Legacy Endowment.  We have branded the program with marketing materials through a partnership with Stelter, Inc. We have a webpage(s) dedicated to the Monarch Legacy Endowment as well as Planned Giving. 

38

Donors are able to utilize the services of Stelter (planned giving calculators, etc.) which are branded to look like the Mater Dei website.  We also send annual Legacy Endowment Newsletters to 2500 strategically identified donors in addition to those donors who have already pledged over $7 million in planned gifts through bequests and charitable trusts.

In 2013, we created an official Legacy Society (donor club) and now annually recognize the donations of both living and deceased donors.   We began holding strategic meetings (both individual and group sessions) to engage potential donors and connect them with planned giving professionals in order to make their gift a reality.

In 2014, we enhanced our wealth screening to identify potential legacy society members through the addition of ResearchPoint.  We continue to hold Grandparents’ Day four times a year where grandparents are screened for their donor affinity and giving potential. 

This year we also made key changes to the Advancement Staff and changed the Position of Director of Admissions Marketing and Planned Giving to Director of Planning Giving and Major Gifts Officer. 

Action Plan #4Completion of the MD2010 and Beyond master plan

The physical plant of Mater Dei High School continues to grow annually.  In coordination with the City of Santa Ana, Mater Dei’s approved redevelopment plan (originally approved in 1996 and amended in 1999) was recently submitted to the City Planning Commission as a first round review for our redevelopment agreement.  These amendments include the continued purchase of 19 homes in the surrounding area, demolition, and surface parking followed by a parking structure.  This phase would then allow construction (funding permitting) of a Performing Arts Center.  The School received approval from the Diocese of Orange to amend the previously completed design development and engineering plans for the proposed Performing Arts Center.  

Approximately 9 of the homes have been acquired, two additional homes have pending short sale offers and the remaining eight are in negotiations.  It is estimated by the first quarter of 2015, we will own 12 homes.  In February of 2015, the amendment to the development agreement will be presented to the City Planning Commission for second review.  It is anticipated that at the March 2015 Santa Ana City Council meeting that this amendment will be voted upon and approved.  

39

Since the 2012 interim report, we have added to the William Lyons Home Aquatic Center with a two-story aquatics building.  The building houses both boys’ and girls’ locker rooms, a video room, coaches’ lockers, bathrooms,a snack bar, equipment room and a study/lounge. 

An upgrade to the field turf and track is also planned (funding permitting) in the summers of 2015 and 2016.  Diocesan approval has been received to launch a mini-capital campaign of 1.5 million dollars for the FieldTurf/Track project.

Action Plan #5/ Critical Area of Growth #5To integrate the resources, training, and techniques in the area of technology, to meet the needs of student learning, and to prepare students for the realities of a changing world.

During the past number of years, Mater Dei High School, in conjunction and collaboration with the Superintendent of Catholic Schools, Diocese of Orange (former MDHS Administrator), has continued to have a technology plan in place where both Faculty and students have effectively integrated the use of different types of technology and media across the curriculum. Each classroom is equipped with state-of-the-art media technology, which is integrated into students’ learning. In addition, for the past ten years, each teacher has been equipped with a laptop computer for purposes of lesson design, presentation, and other types of instruction. With the beginning of the 2011-2012 school year, each student and

Faculty member was equipped with an iPad to facilitate learning across the curriculum using 21st century technology, which is already part of a young person’s daily use. Toward that goal, the School has deployed the iWorks Suite of Apps to each student and Faculty member.  In addition, all have access to Notibility, iMovies, Good Reader and other educational apps. In most departments, students have access to e-texts, which they may use in lieu of hard copies. Students also use the iPad  for research, to store their work, and to maintain their schedule. Effective September 2011, all students’ records were transferred from other software programs to the Eagle/Aeries program. This transfer of records continues to allow parents and students access to the viewing of grades, attendance, discipline, activities and awards. Aeries is also used for students’ scheduling of classes. In 2012, Mater Dei employed the Blackboard Learning Management System.  This platform is used by Faculty, Administration, students, and parents as a form of communication in regards to assignments, homework, and upcoming events.  Faculty has also incorporated  Edmodo, Quia, and Turnitin.com  for submission of assignments.  In other areas of the School such as the Business and Advancement Offices, the Blackbaud Software programs are used. The School employs five different people in the Information Technology Department. These individuals support the Apple and Microsoft platforms used by the School personnel and students. In 2012-2013, the Coordinator of Educational Technology developed blended courses in different disciplines.  As Mater Dei moves into the future, the

40

School will continue to integrate technology across the curriculum in order to continue to prepare students for their futures in the 21st century.

Critical Area of Growth #6Investigate options to allow all students to complete the UC/CSU admissions requirements.

Mater Dei made a significant change to the daily schedule in 2010 by adding an additional period each day (7th Block). Students now have the opportunity to take 8 courses during the day (0 block through 7th block). The School has introduced blended courses for English IV, Contemporary Media, Honors Spanish III, and  AP Music Theory which are available in either blocks 0 or 7. As a result students have the opportunity to experience online learning prior to their college years.  Additionally, students can take Athletic classes or Academic Decathlon during 7th Block.  The School has also added a blended Credit Recovery Program, which allows students to remediate D grades during the school year to meet graduation and college admission requirements.

41

1. Vital Areas of Growth

2. Goal of the Action Plan

3. Rationale

4. Action Steps

5. Acting Agents

6. Resources

7. Ways of Accessing Progress

8. Ways of Reporting Progress

9. Timeline for Completion

SECTION B

Current Educational Improvement Plan

42

Vital Growth Area Catholic Identity

To ensure that the School’s Catholic Identity is always recognized and understood by all stakeholders, ongoing review of the School’s Mission and Philosophy in light of Gospel values and current Church documents and teachings is necessary.

Goal of the Action Plan

✴ Provide ongoing professional development, growth opportunities, and resources for all Faculty and Staff related to Gospel values and Church documents and teachings.

✴ Provide ongoing assistance to Faculty and Staff, particularly those who are new to the School, on the integration of prayer in all areas of school life.

Rationale

✴ One survey reflects not all teachers consistently lead prayer at the beginning of every class period.

✴ So that the Catholic Identity continues to be present in all areas of school life, we need to provide ongoing education and information for all Faculty and Staff regarding Catholic teachings.  

Action Steps

✴ Director of Campus Ministry, Rector/Chaplain, and Religious Studies Department Chair will create a resource on prayer at Mater Dei to support and supplement the existing prayer life at Mater Dei.

✴ In addition to the annual Diocesan Convocation and currently calendared annual Day of Recollection at MDHS, the Spiritual Formation Committee will explore the opportunity for additional Faculty/Staff professional growth regarding the on-going understanding of the School’s Catholic Identity.

Acting Agents

✴ Administrative Board

✴ Spiritual Formation Committee

Resources

Time for agents to meet to develop resources and explore ongoing opportunities for new and returning teachers to understand the priority of Prayer and Catholic Teaching.

Ways of Assessing Progress

✴ Observation of the presence of prayer across all areas of school life.

✴ Annual survey of Faculty/Staff and students pertaining to the School’s Catholic Identity

43

✴ Through Department Chair Observation and Review of Lesson Plans

Ways of Reporting Progress

✴ Analysis and presentation of survey results

✴ Annual Performance Reviews

✴ Spiritual Formation Committee Meetings

Timeline for Completion

✴ Begin development of prayer resources during the spring of 2015 for implementation in the fall of 2015 and beyond.

✴ The responsible agents will begin discussion during the spring of 2015 in regards to establishing a Professional Growth Plan for implementation at the start of the 2015-2016 school year.

Vital Growth Area Professional Learning Community

In an effort to provide the most up-to-date and relevant learning practices, as well as to provide student and teacher support, we need to continue the process of building a Professional Learning Community (PLC) .

Goal of the Action Plan

✴ Establish a protocol to gather evidence of inter department collaboration for the purpose of evaluation of student assessment and overall student learning.

✴ Provide more formal analysis of data such as PSAT scores, semester exams, midterm reports in order to drive instructional practices.

✴ Use of common formative assessments to develop instructional practices and identify students who need additional support.

✴ Expand the use of the attendance data to more effectively and consistently follow up with students who avail themselves of the EAP services and then provide academic interventions.

44

Rationale

✴ To meet the National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Elementary and Secondary Schools - Standards 7 and 8.

✴ To update graduation requirements in regards to Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) to meet the UC/CSU Admission Requirements.

✴ The PLC format allows collaboration time to develop curriculum using the Common Core State Standards as a guide.

✴ The daily schedule will be modified in order to support the holistic formation of each student.

✴ The PLC supports common forms of adjustment/accommodation that the teachers use in responding to students’ learning needs.

Action Steps

✴ Implement a new bell schedule that allows for full participation of all Faculty in the PLC process.

✴ Establish a structure that gives Faculty access to data using the School’s state-of-the-art technology systems.

✴ Align the English curriculum in accordance with the social studies curriculum.

✴ Discuss and evaluate aligning the math curriculum in accordance with the science curriculum.

Acting Agents

✴ All members of the Faculty and the Administration

✴ The Curriculum and Technology Committee

✴ Department and Level Chairs

Resources

✴ Professional Development for all Faculty and Academic Counselors for PLC

✴ Time to research other schools to evaluate the possibility of aligning the math curriculum in accordance with the science curriculum

✴ Time to create and develop new curriculum

Ways of Assessing Progress

✴ Student outcomes

✴ Student progress on common assessments

✴ Implementation of new curriculum

Ways of Reporting Progress

✴ Department, Level, and PLC meetings

45

Timeline for Completion

✴ Implementation of the new block schedule and realignment of the English and social studies curriculum by the fall of 2015 so as to allow for the collaboration necessary for a PLC environment.

✴ In the 2015/16 school year, review and discuss if change is needed in regards to the science and math curriculum alignment.

✴ The implementation for the PLC will be an ongoing process as we provide professional development necessary to evaluate data and make informed curriculum decisions.

Vital Growth Area Endowment

In an effort to meet the growing needs of financial aid, Mater Dei remains committed to building on its existing endowment created in 2000.  Given that approximately 800 students receive a total amount of $4.2 million in aid annually, we anticipate that this demand will continue to grow.  In order to build the endowment, we must continue to identify, cultivate, and convert individual prospects into endowment donors.

Goal of the Action Plan

The goal of this vital area of the action plan is to grow the endowment to a minimum of $60 million, which would yield a $3 million investment into the School’s budget allocated for financial aid annually. This would help sustain a robust financial aid program that would meet the needs of our families and ensure the continued diversity of our school community.

Rationale

The rationale for an increase in the endowment is that there is a need to diversify the School’s financial aid funding sources.

46

Action Steps

Within the Office of Advancement & Alumni, Staff will continue to routinely identify and solicit major and planned giving prospects through a variety of methods that include ResearchPoint Wealth Screening Software, Crescendo Interactive web based software program, interactive planned giving pages on the Mater Dei website, annual Monarch Legacy newsletters, targeted mail campaigns, annual Grandparents’ Days (four per school year), donor education seminars, and Annual Legacy Society Donor Recognition Campaign and Dinner.

Acting Agents

✴ President

✴ Special Assistant to the President

✴ Vice President of Advancement

✴ Director of Planned Giving & Major Gifts Officer

✴ Director of Alumni Giving & Relations

✴ Alumni Relations Coordinator

Resources

✴ ResearchPoint Wealth Screening Software

✴ Crescendo Interactive web based software program

✴ Interactive planned giving pages on the Mater Dei website

✴ Annual Newsletters

✴ Targeted mail campaigns

✴ Grandparents’ Days

✴ Donor Education Seminars

✴ Annual Legacy Society Donor Recognition Campaign and Dinner

Ways of Assessing Progress

✴ Receiving letter of intent/bequests/insurance policies

✴ Growth in individual donor portfolios of above listed acting agents

Ways of Reporting Progress

Annual reporting to the following constituency groups:

✴ Administrative Board

✴ Planned Giving Committee

✴ Auditor

✴ MD Vision 2020 Executive Committee

✴ MD Management Board

✴ MD Consultative School Board

✴ Annual Report to the Diocesan Finance Council

47

Timeline for Completion

The initiative to grow the endowment has been and will be ongoing.  We will continue to analyze, cultivate, and steward new and existing donors well beyond the minimum target goal of $60 million dollars.

48