11TH ANNUAL CALIFORNIA CHARTER SCHOOLS CONFERENCE

Sacramento Convention Center    w    March 29 - 31, 2004

Hosted by
California Charter Schools Association


About the Conference    Schedule     Hotels     Exhibitors     Sponsors
Speakers
     Home     Teacher Day     Job Fair     Pre-conference     Special Activities

SESSIONS

The list of sessions provides an overview of the scope and substance of what will be presented.

We are planning over 100 total sessions for you to choose from when you attend.




LIST OF FEATURED SESSIONS 





BREAKOUT SESSIONS:  
To Review by Day & Time, Select from the  Following Links
(Note:  Session times are subject to change.)

Monday - First Session

Monday - Second Session
Monday - Third Session

Tuesday - First Session
Tuesday - Second Session
Tuesday - Third Session

Wednesday - One Session



Breakout Session Strands:

Accountability/Accreditation
Advocacy/PR/Marketing
Authorization/Oversight
Business Operations
Facilities
Governance/Legal  
Leadership
Special Education
Student Achievement

 




FEATURED SESSIONS

MONDAY, MARCH 29TH – 11:00 TO 12:15

Are We Up to the Challenge?    
Room 314


Charter schools are a powerful source for empowering parents, teachers and students to create quality educational environments for students.  The question is, are we up to the challenge?

Howard Fuller


No Child Left Behind (NCLB) and How Accountability and Leadership are Essential to Closing the Achievement Gap
Room 315

2004 marks the 50th anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education decision; Brian Jones will talk about NCLB as the essential next step following that landmark ruling, toward closing the achievement gap.

Brian Jones, General Counsel, U.S. Department of Education




MONDAY, MARCH 29TH – 1:15 TO 2:30

Non-site Based Charter School Issues
Room 314

Hear from those who have successfully weathered the political and organizational challenges facing non-site based charter schools.  Topics will range from LEA/granting agency relations, legislative compliance, fiscal and facilities issues, assessment and accountability. 

Panelists will represent insight from management/central office perspective, from a granting agency Board of Trustee, and operators who have been in the field for over 10 years. 

Moderator: Bob Hampton, Buckingham Charter School; Sarah Chapman Board of Trustee for 16 years and past President of CSBA; Steve Butler—Deputy Superintendent Santa Rosa Unified School District; Jeff Rice, Founder & Director of APLUS+



Trends in Charter School Operation and Charter School Authorization: Past Experiences and Future Strategies – A National Perspective
Room 315

Learn about the types of schools that were and are being opened and closed across the country. Understand the reasons for the openings and closings and how these trends may change. 

Discussion on the options charter school operators and choice supporters may have while planning for future operations and student populations, and how to best assess the performance of charter schools.

Otho Tucker, Senior Vice President, Mosaica Education




MONDAY, MARCH 29TH – 3:15 TO 4:30

Overcoming the Achievement Gap
Room 314

Overcoming the achievement gaps are a major focus of our educational institutions. The talk focuses on how we can help, and what schools and districts are doing now to meet the twin challenges of increasing overall achievement while simultaneously closing the gaps.

Russlynn Ali, Executive Director, Education Trust West


Meet the California Department of Education, Charter School Division Staff
Room 315

Goals, roles and directions of the CDE.

Marta Reyes and staff, California Department of Education



TUESDAY, MARCH 30TH – 11:00 TO 12:15

Legislator’s Perspective
Room 315

Legislators discuss the charter school movement from their perspective.

Moderator: Branche Jones, Director of Governmental Affairs, California Charter Schools Association, Assembly Woman Patricia Bates, Senator Dede Alpert, Senator Chuck Poochigian; Assembly Woman Sharon Runner


Expanding the Circle: A pursuit of Greatness
Room 314

David Levin discusses how he implemented Jim Collin’s book, Good to Great in his school, the
KIPP Academy New York (KIPP - Knowledge is Power Program). 

KIPP
schools have gained recognition for academic achievement since opening their doors in 1995. Ninety-nine percent of KIPP alumni matriculate into top high schools and have earned more than $18 million in scholarships. In fall 2003, the first class of KIPP alumni started college.

David Levin, Co-founder and Superintendent, KIPP Academy New York


TUESDAY, MARCH 30TH – 1:15 TO 2:30

Creating a Unified Message that Advances the Charter School Movement
Room 314

Ten years into the charter school movement and the honeymoon is over. Clearly the movement’s success has prompted a backlash from the establishment. An aggressive and unified public message from the charter community can supercede hostilities and keep the movement on the promising path towards reform rather than towards disarray. 

Join four charter school veterans as they share their tested strategic and tactical activities and messages that can be used to strengthen and unite the charter school movement as it leads the charge to reform public education.

Topics:

  • Turning the Corner on Negative Charter School Perceptions
  • Building Relationships that Communicate the Charter School Message to the Public
  • Circling the Wagons and then Shooting at One Another Is No Way to Grow A Movement
  • Let’s Get the Excitement and the Bravery Back into the Charter School Movement

Moderator: Gary Larson, Director of Media Relations, California Charter Schools Association; Panelists: Vernon Thompson, Director of Development and Communications, Leadership Public Schools; Peter Thorp, Gateway High; Don Shalvey, Aspire Public Schools; Pat Golding, Director Hickman Charter School



TUESDAY, MARCH 30TH – 3:15 TO 4:30

State of Charter School movement
Room 314

The Legislative Analyst’s report, their findings and recommendations to the legislature on how to improved the charter school process

Jennifer Kuhn, California Legislative Analyst’s Office


Urban Issues
Room 315

Schools in urban settings have a unique set of issues. This session will be presented by a panel of those who have been living successfully and overcoming the political, financial, educational issues in urban settings.

Steve Barr, Founder and CEO of Green Dot Public Schools, Mark Kushner, CEO Leadership Public Schools, CEO, Leadership Public Schools, Advisory
Commission on Charter Schools; Mike Piscal, President of Inner City Education Foundation and Head of Schools View Park Prep; Johnathan Williams, co-founder and co-director of The Accelerated School & Member California State Board of Education; and Don Shalvey, Co-Founder and President, Aspire Public Schools







BREAKOUT SESSIONS 


Monday March 29th   11:00am –12:15pm


Advocacy/PR/Marketing

PR 101
Room 105

Basic tips on getting your school’s positive message out to local news sources, including: how to draft a press release, how and when to send it to various news sources, writing letters to the editor and opinion editorials. Understand how to select and train a school spokesperson, and refine key school and charter school messages.

Presenter: Gary Larson, Director of Media Relations, California Charter Schools Association


Advocacy/PR/Marketing

How to Help Parents Advocate for Charter Schools 

Room ---

Learn what tools they need to make your job easier! Parents who understand their power can change the quality of education, and telling parents about solutions to their own concerns can turn them from a passive herd into a stampeding force for change. With a little leadership on your part, parents can help you advance the charter school movement in California.

Jeanne Allen, President, Center for Education Reform


Authorization/Oversight

Navigating "No Child Left Behind
"
– Compagno
Room ---

District-based charter authorizers face unique challenges in implementing NCLB. As part of a new national initiative to clarify and strengthen authorizers' NCLB role, The National Association of Charter School Authorizers (NACSA) is seeking authorizer input about how they are handling new accountability mandates and what support  they need for sound oversight. 

William Haft, NACSA, National Association of Charter School Authorizers; Nelson Smith, New American Schools


Business Operations

Forecasting School Financials
Room 102


Forecasting your school's financials is critical for understanding where you are now and where you are going from a financial perspective. Learn the key revenue and expense items to monitor tips for developing useful and accurate projections, including running scenarios, thinking outside the box, and comparing your school with others.

Peter Gascoyne, Eagle Peak Montessori School


Business Operations

How to Write a Technology Plan and e-rate
Room 103

An introduction to the whys and hows of technology planning, emphasizing opportunities to obtain significant additional funding for your school's technology program. Understand the reasons for preparing a technology plan, the range of opportunities this opens up (including but not limited to E-Rate), and the process of creating your plan. 

A Special Round Table Session that will follow the session provides a hands-on opportunity to begin or continue work on your own technology plan, using a suggested template that meets E-Rate and CDE guidelines. Share your current technology program, the status of the technology planning process.

Mark Miller, Miller Institute for Technology


Facilities

Working With Community Based Organizations, School Districts And Local Government To Get Facilities
Room 304

Get high-quality campuses by partnering with other community-based organizations, school districts or other local governments. School leaders and real estate professionals explain what makes these partnerships work – and why they sometimes don’t. Learn how to be successful the first time you partner, and get the campus your students and community deserve.

Moderator: Frank Gonzalez, California Charter Schools Association General Manager – Los Angeles; Ana Ponce, Camino Nuevo Charter Academy; Mott Smith, Civic Enterprise Associates; Jonathan Williams, the Accelerated School; Tim O’Shea, Founder of New Community Schools Development & New Community Schools Institute


Governance/Legal

Catch the Vision - Enrolling Staff in Personal and Professional Growth
Room 302

Lead your staff to bring out their best, avoid burnout, and recognize when intervention is needed by connection of their individual purpose to the work of the school. Learn strategies for developing a culture of commitment and collaboration, and how to enroll others in the work of personal and professional growth as it relates to defining or refining your school's vision.

Janis Bucknor, Culture and Language Academy of Success Charter School


Governance/Legal

Full Steam Ahead: Board Development on a Shoestring
Room 318

How to select, develop and sustain competent board members. What charter school boards can ethically and legally do to sustain talent, while systematically weeding incompetent or unaligned directors. Examine several ethical, operational and legal strategies proven to rescue boards searching for flesh blood and new leadership on limited budgets.

Ronald Arrington and William A. Taylor, Consultants, Trainers, Coaches - The Business Lawyers


Governance/Legal

School Laws for Charter Schools 101: What Law’s Apply to You?
Room 316

Learn about the most important state and federal laws that are applicable to charter schools so you can audit your program and/or prioritize areas in need of refinement. Tackle legal issues before they become legal issues.

Jim Young and Paul Minney, SMY&M Law Office


Leadership

The Trends and Events that will Influence the Future of California Charter Schools – A Delphi Study
Room 314

Are charter schools a powerful reform movement in education, a fad of the last decade of the 20th century or the promise for the new millennium? This interactive session will engage participants to examine these questions by identifying the trends or events that will influence the future of California charter schools.

David Alexander, Children’s Community Charter School


Special Education

You Are Responsible!! Serving Your Special Ed and Section 504 Students
Room 315

Focus on the division of responsibilities between the charter school and the district as it relates to serving students with special needs under the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (Section 504). Understand the form, content, and negotiation of the various agreements necessary.

Lisa Corr, SMYM Law Office


Special Education

Critical Issues and a National Perspective on Special Education
Room 319

State and national solutions and practices to meet the critical issues facing charters include: meeting the needs of special education students, addressing the issues of quality service, budgeting for additional costs and encroachment, traveling the labyrinth of LEA status, SELPAs and being a school of your sponsoring district. How can individual charters form coops and consortia to address their needs?

Moderator – Don Shalvey, Aspire Public Schools; Panel Tom Scovill, Shasta SELPA. Jennifer Faukner, California Department of Education, Special Education Division, Deborah Herrmann, California Department of Education, Charter Division


Student Achievement


How Can The International Primary Curriculum (IPC) Help Your School Go From Good To Great?
Room ---


The International School of Monterey charter school, using the International Primary Curriculum’s (IPC) K-6 program, encourages children to value their own cultural identity and helps them become internationally minded. In just two years, using the IPC program, the school became the 2nd highest scoring elementary school in the District.

Chrissie Jahn, Executive Director, the International School of Monterey; Andrew Wigford and Martin Skelton, International Primary Curriculum


Student Achievement

Teaching Alive: An Effective Pedagogy for Charter Schools
Room 101

A researched based professional development approach that assists K-3 teachers in reading instruction and other content areas. It is effective for all students, especially those from diverse linguistic, cultural, racial, geographic and economic backgrounds. Center for Research in Education, Diversity and Excellence’s teaching strategies are based on five basic principles found to be in all successful academic programs.

Priscilla Walton, Noni Reis, Center for Research in Education, Diversity and Excellence (CREDE), University. Of California, Santa Cruz


Student Achievement

Update On New Responsibilities for Charter School Oversight for Districts and Counties
Room ---

This session addresses some of a district’s and counties' general oversight responsibilities for charter schools.

Moderated by Colin Miller, Director of Policy and Research, The California Charter Schools Association


Student Achievement

Quality Assessment in a Standards Based System
Room 301

Learn to design a comprehensive classroom assessment system. Participants will explore innovative and holistic diagnostic, formative and summative assessment methods aimed at engaging students, both informally and formally, in meaningful activities that both teachers and students use in all content areas to improve teaching and learning.

Michael Moody, Insight Education Group, Inc.


Exhibitor Presentation

Introducing a New Technology for the Math Classroom - the Class Pad 300
Room 201

See what our new handheld technology has to offer. Experience the ClassPad 300 and a new concept called an eActivity. eActivities can be designed to inspire all students to explore mathematics, learn at their own pace and at their own level. The audience will participate in hands-on activities that can be used in Algebra, Geometry, and beyond. Each participant will receive a sample software for their PC for supplementing a lecture, and is also useful in preparing materials for your class.

Presenter: Diane Whitfield, Casio, Inc.


Exhibitor Presentation

Empowering Language Learners and Parents for Successful Integration in the Classroom and the Community
Room ---

This hands-on presentation will focus on research based instructional strategies for accelerated development of academic and social, second language and reading skills in the classroom, through structured content-based immersion. It will also train participants in equipping parents and other adults who are helping children with their language acquisition, with the necessary tools to participate in the process that promises positive outcome in the literacy realm.

Presenter: Hilary Rayvis-Randall, Santillana USA


Exhibitor Presentation

Technology and Project-Based Learning: From Theory to Practice
Room 307

Participants will be introduced to the essential elements of, and theories supporting project-based learning. This House Divided: The U.S. Civil War and Reconstruction, a standards-driven project, which immerses students in history of the Civil War and its aftermath, will be presented. Participants will learn how Questia, the world's largest online library, can support this and all your research needs. The project and a 90-day subscription to Questia are free.

Presenters: John Ferro and Jennifer Park, Questia

Return to Top


Monday March 29th   1:15pm – 2:30pm


Accountability/Accreditation

Public Schools Accountability Act (PSAA) and NCLB: Accountability from a state and federal perspective
Room 314

Understanding the provisions and issues of the laws and the expectations for charter schools.

Moderated by Colin Miller, Director of Policy and Research, The California Charter Schools Association


Advocacy/PR/Marketing

Guerilla Marketing: How to Reach Low Income and Diverse Students
Room 302

Innovative recruitment techniques to maintain ethnic and gender balance at new charter schools. There will be a focus on resources available in targeted charter school communities, retaining applicants, understanding local politics, planning contingencies, and student voices.

Bianca Escalante, Leadership Public Schools


Authorization/Oversight

Revisiting the Charter School Petition: Knowing what the Authorizer Needs to Know
Room 103

Key application issues will be discussed based on scenarios developed through National Association of Charter School Authorizer’s (NACSA) Applying for Excellence: Fostering High-Quality Charter Schools in California project. 

Learn what information an authorizer needs to make sound petition decisions and how the petition decision can and should align with the charter school development process.

William Haft, NACSA (National Association of Charter School Authorizers)
; Dave Taylor, Twin Ridges Elementary School District


Business Operations

Providing Quality Employee Benefits at an Affordable Cost!
Room ---

Cost of health benefits increased an average of 20% last year and will rise again this year! Our panel of industry experts will provide some insight as to how organizations are managing this growing problem. 

Meet one school that has already met the challenge and reduced their benefits cost by more than $100,000 this year. Be prepared to learn what is ahead and hear some innovative ideas about controlling your benefit costs.

Yvonne Sanusi, Regional Employee Benefits; Carol Cleveland, Controller, Orange County High School of Arts
; Carl Dickerson, Dickerson Benefits, Blue Cross G.A.


Business Operations

Starting a Second School – Replication Issues and Advice
Room 317

Learn from those who successfully replicated their school, how they did it. A very practical advice-filled session from those who achieved success.

Panel, Including: Elliot Washor, The MET School


Facilities

Navigating the Charter School Facilities Programs Agencies 
Room ---

In March 2004, the $300 million Charter School Facilities Program application period will begin. The state representatives will discuss their agency’s role and the improvements that have been implemented since the initiation of the program in 2003. This is an important session for those applying for funding this year.

Moderator: Ernie Silva, Murdoch Walrath & Holmes; Representatives from the Office of Public School Construction; California Department of Education; California School Finance Agency


Governance/Legal

E Pluribus Unum - From Many, One
Room 318

Lack of consensus undermines the ability of charter school Local School Boards to create a constructive learning environment. Review major elements of small group dynamics, including the use and misuse of Robert's Rules of Order, active listening techniques, and various forms of decision-making and consensus building. Participants assume roles seen on Boards and collectively analyze the process.

Dr. Robert Alan Fox, University of Hawaii Charter School Resource Center and Ku'ikaki Mediation Center


Governance/Legal

Free Legal Advice: Is there really such a thing
Room 315

We will respond to all your legal questions in a quick three to five minute per question format. Prizes will be given for anyone who can "stump" the attorneys or for those with the best attorney jokes.

Paul Minney, SMY&M Law Office


Governance/Legal

Jump Start Your Charter School
Room 306

This session is meant for charter leaders that will be opening in the fall of 2004. It provides an overview of many of the start-up issues that schools need to address before they open, including: teacher credentialing, health and safety, federal and state forms, food service, accounting, attendance. Handouts and useful forms/resources will be distributed.

Peter Laub, Adam Musch, Shaheed Haq, EdTec, Inc.


Governance/Legal

The Nuts and Bolts of Charter School Partnerships
Room 319

Practical advice to help charter school personnel determine whether partnerships can be used to enhance the capacity and supplement the resources of their school. The session provides a step-by step implementation plan of the partnering process including how to choose appropriate partners, clearly define the roles and purpose of the partnership, and manage the partnership for success.

Courtney L. Malloy, Center on Educational Governance, University of Southern California


Leadership

Emerging Trends and Issues: The Future of the California Charter Movement
Room ---

Where has the charter movement been? Where is the future of the charter movement headed in California? This panel of charter leaders will discuss emerging trends and issues. Issues covered will include: Lessons learned, future goals of the movement, challenges, threats, policy and legal needs, authorizing issues, California Department of Education and the California Charter Schools Association capacity and best practices in charter management. 

Moderator: Mark Kushner, CEO, Leadership Public Schools; Panelists: Caprice Young, CEO/President, California Charter Schools Association; Don Shalvey, Aspire Public Schools


Student Achievement

Engaging At-Risk Youth Through Project-based Curriculum
Room 301

One of Life Learning Academy’s strongest methods of bringing at-risk youth back to the classroom has been our project-based, integrated curriculum. LLA instructors will present three stellar examples.


Joanne da Luz, Justin Warren, and Craig Miller, Life Learning Academy


Student Achievement

Implementation of the California Student Information System (CSIS) and Its Potential for Accountability
Room 201

This session discusses what the CSIS is and how it can be of value to you in helping with accountability issues.

The California Department of Education


Student Achievement

Personalized Learning Best Practices
Room 305

Personalized Learning tailors learning according to the individual needs of each student, using learning environments both within and beyond classroom. Charter schools of the APLUS+ Personalized Learning Network Association will provide insights and information on proven "best practices" on a number of topics and issues unique to independent study classified charter schools.

Jeff Rice, Founder and Director of APLUS+ (the Association of Personalized Learning Services)


Student Achievement

Prepare Students to meet the State Writing Assessments
Room 305

We must teach quality writing, as well as meet specific California writing standards. Keyes to Learning Charter School is conquering this problem with creative writing packets that are useful in classroom situations as well as in home school settings. Let us share what succeeds for us and give you helpful ideas and tips of what you can do now.

Annette Steele and Cindy Tyson, Keyes to Learning Charter School


Student Achievement

The Hedgehog Concept: High School Grade Level Promotions Through Mastery
Room 105

Stanislaus County Office of Education charter schools School-to-Career high schools blend academic projects with "real world" internships and experiences. Students graduate with a culminating celebration before a committee of school and business/community representatives. Students are promoted through "grade levels" by demonstrating mastery of the California academic content standards and other program quality indicators.

Dr.
Jeff S. Tilton and Mr. William Redford, Stanislaus County Office of Education


Student Achievement

The Mueller Resiliency Quadrants: Schools need to meet the real needs of children
Room 307

We have created a system that nurtures resilient students while supporting those experiencing a profound life crisis. We will share our "Resiliency Quadrants" and discuss how we identify and prioritize the risk factors for each child, assess the degree to which they inhibit learning and create interventions that allow children to overcome adversity and achieve at grade level.

Kevin Riley, The Mueller Charter School


Exhibitor Presentation

Standards Based Curriculum Planning and Assessments 
Room 304

Participants will learn how to analyze grade level standards, plan appropriate instruction and periodically assess student progress toward learning standards. Handouts will include a curriculum planning chart, sample assessment questions and class or individual student assessment reports.

Presenter: Dr. Geni Boyer Ph.D, The Learning Classroom


Exhibitor Presentation

Achieving the Requirements of NCLB with Microsoft Class Server
Room ---

Designed specifically to help educators address the challenges of meeting No Child Left Behind (NCLB) requirements, Microsoft Class Server 3.0 delivers real-time student achievement data and standards-aligned curriculum so you can improve the district's decision-making capability and student performance. Class Server 3.0 is a powerful learning management platform for delivering assessments and lessons over the Web that enables school districts and teachers to track and improve student achievement against local curriculum standards.

Presenter: Joy Dakin, Microsoft Corporation


Return to Top


Monday March 29th   3:15pm – 4:30pm


Accountability/Accreditation

Achieving Genuine Accountability
Room 102

Keyes to Learning Charter School combines the best of classroom instruction and home-based education. The presentation includes how we refined our mission and vision statements, organized multiple measures of assessment, and developed lesson plans for students that meet our teaching parent's needs and the California state standards.

Lee Ann Staugl and Susan Nisan, Keyes to Learning Charter School


Advocacy/PR/Marketing

PR 301 
Room 304

This advanced public relations session is a must for those who want to take their media and public relations plans to the next level. Participants will learn: (1) About successful public messaging efforts and strategies that resonate with the public. (2) How to use both strategic and tactical messages to create a positive impression of your school – and the charter school movement. (3) About the power of "third-party" validation. (4) How to effectively communicate with and engage important media stakeholders.

Gary Larson, Director of Media Relations, California Charter Schools Association


Authorization/Oversight

The Dynamics of Getting Authorized or Reauthorized with Districts
Room 317

What works to assist your charter approval or renewal, what works against you. What's the cost-benefit analysis to various approaches to chartering? Are the trade-offs worth it? Can there be a true "win-win" for a charter and the sponsor? What are strategies for working with authorizers, as well as signs that the appeal process is "just a vote away".  

Moderator: Bob Pearlman; Panel: Elliot Washor (MET Schools), Don Shalvey (Aspire Public Schools), Deanna Hanson (LEEDS)


Business Operations

Cal State TEACH, An Alternative CSU Credentialing Path
Room 319

The program allows working teachers and other qualified candidates to earn their credential without attending traditional college classes. The curriculum is delivered using a self-study format, and includes online, print and CD-Rom materials, and web-based "class discussions". Professional feedback is through on-site coaching, and guidance from mentor teachers at their school site, as well as CSU faculty.

Carolyn Bishop, Director, Cal State TEACH (An Alternative California State University System Credentialing Path)


Facilities

Finding and Leveraging Private Funding and Financing
Room 315

This workshop is led by school leaders that have successfully raised and borrowed private funds to build their own campus and the financial professionals that have helped them do it. Learn how you can get your own campus using private sources of money.

Moderator: Carl Cade, Director of Facilities Development, California Charter Schools Association, Dennis "Coach" Snyder Escondido Charter School; Susan Harper, Low Income Investment Fund; Anita Landecker, ExEd; James Willcox, New Schools Venture Fund; Jeff Baratta, Stone & Youngberg LLC.


Governance/Legal

Chartering as a Vector for Systemic Reform
Room 105

Charter schools and traditional districts often have rocky relationships. A few districts see independent public schools as an opportunity for broader reform, e.g., replicating successful charter models to create an alternative delivery system. New American Schools works with a diverse group of American cities where chartering is an impetus for reform. How might their lessons apply to California's chartering districts?

Nelson Smith, New American Schools


Governance/Legal

Advanced Privacy, Public Records, and Business Secrets in Charter Schools
Room 307

Charter Schools face a number of unique issues relating to the ownership of written materials, artwork, and other producible works. Understand how to minimize disputes regarding ownership of written works and protect your school's identity in the marketplace. Learn about new California laws regarding security of private information and privacy policies.  Checklists and sample policies will be discussed.

Greg Moser and Andy Serwin; Foley and Lardner


Governance/Legal

Avoiding Personnel Landmines: Hiring, Firing and Evaluating Charter Staff
Room 302

Some of the most difficult struggles that charter schools face are personnel issues. This session offers tools and tips to prevent common personnel problems by establishing clear hiring, evaluation, and disciplinary procedures and policies. Start-ups to seasoned charter schools will benefit from this presentation.

Jim Young and Jessica Hawthorne, SMY&M Law Office


Governance/Legal

Working with the Legislature
Room ---

Strategies for getting what we want through the legislature and how you can be involved.

Rand Martin, Rose & Kindel; Ernie Silva, Murdoch Walrath & Holmes


Leadership

Not Reinventing the Wheel:  the Charter Mentor Program
Room ---

Almost all charter schools experience similar "passages" in the start up and sustaining phases; the ability to meet those challenges defines a successful charter school. San Francisco's Gateway High School is starting a Northern CA mentor support program for up to a dozen schools. Come learn about the program and how to apply to be a mentor school.

Peter Thorp, Principal of Gateway High School and President of the Board of Directors for the California Charter Schools Association; Ting L. Sun, Ph.D., Vice President, Leadership and Quality, California Charter Schools Association


Student Achievement

Aligning Theory & Practice: Project Based Learning in Action
Room 318

Charlie is building a rock wall, while a community resource specialist shows Amy how to make a siphon. Project-based learning (PBL) like this at the secondary level offers a viable curricular alternative. In this session, participants will learn about the West Hawaii Explorations Academy Public Charter School model as featured in the George Lucas Foundation Learn and Live series.

Nina K. Buchanan, University of Hawaii Charter School Resource Center


Student Achievement

Personalizing Education through Advisory: Support our students in time of diminished resources, budget, and space
Room 316

Leadership High School's advisory program forms strong relationships between students, their families and their advisor to effectively support and advocate for the student in his/her academic and personal growth. Hear what we learned in our first four years of co-advising students and how that is shaping our work this year. Students and families will share their experiences as well.

Michelle Deiro and
Eve Gordon, Leadership High School


Student Achievement

Teacher Qualification and Credentialing in Charter Schools
Room ---

Determining what credentials are required for charter schoolteachers is a cumbersome, complex, and often frustrating process. What are current credentialing requirements for California charter schoolteachers? Participants will receive information about the various credentialing avenues available in California, including specific information on the 91 accredited programs currently in place.

Michael Moody, and Deanna Brady, Ph.D., Insight Education Group


Student Achievement

The New SAT and Its Impact on Your Sophomores and College Admissions
Room 314

What are the realities of this new test? Does it represent a fundamental shift in what it tests and measures, or a repositioning of the test? Understand how to explain the changes, and how public and private colleges will use SAT I and SAT II scores differently for the class of 2006 than they do for the class of 2005. If time permits, learn astonishing techniques for improving essay scores on the new SAT I Writing section.

Paul Kanarek, Founder of The Princeton Review in California


Exhibitor Presentation

Time-Tested Success with Calvert Curriculum 
Room 316

For over a century Calvert has been committed to inspiring the best in each student through an integrated, classical curriculum developed and proven in its own classrooms. Discover how this time-tested, academically stimulating curriculum maximizes instructional quality, reinforces concepts through an integrated disciplinary approach, instills a love of learning, and creates a lifelong learner.

Presenter: Megin Renaud, Calvert Curriculum


Exhibitor Presentation

Take a Learning Odyssey for Student Success 
Room 303

Participants will learn how Odyssey Charter School in Las Vegas, Nevada, is using a web-based curriculum option to give parents and students an alternative to the traditional setting for education. Learn about integrating web-based learning and student management systems into your charter school curriculum.

Presenters: Lynette Binka McVay, CompassLearning/Michelle Robinson, Odyssey Charter


Exhibitor Presentation

Using Windows Sharepoint Services and Office 2003 to Foster Collaboration and Reduce Costs 
Room 103

By using Office 2003 and Windows SharePoint Services, a part of Microsoft Windows Server 2003, districts foster collaboration within groups, improve communication among administrators and teachers while reducing costs including the need for many face to face meetings. Discover how districts can leverage Windows SharePoint Services (WSS) and Office 2003 for collaboration on projects, increase team productivity, improve communication and manage documents.

Presenter: Joy Dakin, Microsoft Corporation


Exhibitor Presentation

Kids Can Excel At Algebra (Grades 6- Algebra I) 
Room 301

Preview a multimedia tutorial and assessment program that provides year-round support of CAHSEE objectives and state standards, develops students’ conceptual understanding of mathematics, and promotes problem solving in a variety of contexts. We will discuss the successful implementation of this program in two Sacramento area schools with their math department heads and instructional technology specialists.

Presenter: Khris Lundy, Meridian Creative Group


Exhibitor Presentation

Meeting Your Data and Reporting Needs
Room ---

Funding, analysis reports and accountability; these all depend on accurate data and proper tools. Software Technology Inc. (STI) has been supplying schools with cost effective solutions to their data and reporting needs for 20 years. See how STI's suite of integrated school, special education and reporting solutions can bring your data to life and empower everyone to higher achievement.

Presenter, Cory Travers, Software Technology Inc.


Return to Top


Tuesday March 30th   11:00am – 12:15pm


Accountability/Accreditation

The San Diego Charter Schools Accountability Project
Room 103

Understand strategies for using data to respond to accountability demands and making better decisions relevant to improving student achievement, as well as analyzing and presenting data to both internal and external audiences.

Beryl Nelson, Center for Building Educational Excellence


Accountability/Accreditation

The WASC Accreditation Process
Room 316

This session will present an overview of the accreditation process and how charter schools can use this to both validate school success, as well as seek out areas for improvement.

George Bronson, WASC Accrediting Commission; Ting L. Sun, Ph.D., Vice President, Leadership and Quality, California Charter Schools Association


Authorization/Oversight

City-aided School Reform - When Mayors Support Charter Schools 
Room 319

Mayors Ron Gonzales and Jerry Brown represent two of the biggest charter supporters in the United States, but they and other big city mayors (e.g. Indianapolis) have taken different approaches. Come hear education aides to these two mayors, as well as an education leader who has advised San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, talk about the successes and challenges of mayoral involvement in charter schools.

Moderator: Peter Thorp, Principal of Gateway High School and President of the Board of Directors for the Califo
rnia Charter Schools Association; Panelists: Avo Makdessian, education advisor to Mayor Ron Gonzales; Simōn Bryce, education advisor to Mayor Jerry Brown; Bill Jackson, President, Greatschools.net, Parent Advocate


Business Operations

Recruiting and Retaining Quality Experienced Teachers
Room 105

A school is only as good as its teachers. Are you recruiting quality teachers as effectively as possible? Are you retaining them? This session can help.

Temp Keller, Resources for Indispensable Schools and Education (RISE)


Facilities

Introduction to Charter School Facilities
Room 102

This panel of charter school leaders will explain what facilities are needed to support an effective school, what schools can afford, and how schools can afford what they need. We will discuss a brief overview of the different options, and the costs and benefits associated with each.

Moderator: Carl Cade, Director of Facilities Development, California Charter Schools Association, Charlie Leo, Natomas Charter; Anita Landecker, ExEd; Charles Robitaille, Aspire Public Schools


Leadership

Developing Learning Communities through Collaboration
Room 317

This session will introduce you to some of the processes of learning communities. Through a constructivist learning model, you will explore new perspectives that will place you and others in the place of most potential. Experiences will transfer back into your school or classroom. Learning will be challenging and fun.

Kathy Tiner, Judy Jamieson, Judy Witt, Fielding Graduate Institute; Ref Rodriguez,


Special Education

Planning for Students with Special Needs
Room 201

Understand the referral, assessment, and identification processes in serving students with special needs. Learn how to ensure compliance with state and federal law, how to identify and address student needs, when to refer students for special education evaluations, and when to write an IEP or offer a 504 Accommodation Plan. Also, what to do when special education students are not progressing.

Dr. Carol Bartz, Director, North Inland SELPA


Student Achievement

Can We Teach for Understanding
Room 314

"Teaching for Understanding" has been a commonly changed mantra for sometime in forward thinking schools. We will explore the nature of "understanding" and look at the relationship of understanding to knowledge and skills. Understand the implications of this for classroom teachers and learners. Gain a coherent view of "Teaching for Understanding".

Chrissie Jahn, International School of Monterey


Student Achievement

Charter Schools and the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) – How to Start An Official Sports Program 
Room ---

Randy Fulcher, Athletic Director from Oakland’s University Preparatory Charter Academy, and several officials from the CIF, will discuss the logistics of sponsoring official CIF sports teams. Topics will include approval process, league enrollment and formation, Title IX issues, tournament involvement, rules, regulations insurance, and much more. Schools wishing to have their kids playing by September 2004 should make this workshop.

Randy Fulcher, Athletic Director, Oakland’s University Preparatory Charter Academy


Student Achievement

Early College High School Initiative
Room 315

This presentation will review the Early College High School Initiative grant program which supports the creation of 15 new Early College High Schools on or near California community college campuses.

Robert Nolan, Foundation for California Community Colleges


Student Achievement

Exploring Options with Independent Study
Room 101

We'll share how schools are using independent study to offer special-topic courses, courses that are no longer offered due to budgetary demands, and courses designed to meet the special interests and needs of gifted students. Allowing students to self-pace their studies, accelerate their progress, or study within their personal schedules makes independent study an option worth exploring.

Ellen Wyllie and Beverly Fox, University of Missouri's Center for Distance & Independent Study


Student Achievement

GAVRT & the Universal Radio Round Up!
Room 306

Goldstone Apple Valley Radio Telescope (GAVRT) curriculum is inquiry-based and aligned with national as well as individual state standards. Students operate and control a 110-foot, 500-ton deep space radio telescope located at NASA's Deep Space Communication Complex at Goldstone, California from their classroom. They collect and analyze data and contribute to NASA missions and a worldwide database used by professional scientists.

Dave MacLaren, Academy for Academic Excellence


Student Achievement

Partnering with Parents
Room 305

Working with parents is a critical part of delivering quality education. The River School system creates a partnership with parents in a way that supports middle scholars in developing a strong sense of self, the goal of the psychological individuation process that begins in adolescence. This in turn helps empower students to succeed in school and gain self-confidence.

Linda Inlay, The River School


Student Achievement

Teaching and Learning in the Small School: The New Tech High Learning System
Room 318

New Tech High has created a student centered, project based, rigorous learning environment. Custom technology tools were developed to help organize and share curriculum, chart student progress, communicate with parents, and collect student data. Presenters discuss the challenges the school faced as it developed its program and how the technology tools it developed helped address those issues.

Susan Schilling, CEO/Replication Director, New Technology Foundation; Paul Curtis, New Technology Foundation


Exhibitor Presentation

The Six Fundamentals of LifeSkills Training 
Room 301

LifeSkills Training is a groundbreaking substance abuse prevention program developed by Gilbert J. Botvin, Ph. D., for elementary and middle school students based on more than 20 years of scientific research. It is comprehensive, interactive and penetrating in its dynamic approach to addressing the underlying causes of tobacco, alcohol and illicit drug use.

Presenter: Gerry Livingston, National Health Promotion Associates, Inc


Exhibitor Presentation

Choose to Improve with Music Education 
Room 307

Developing a child’s musical interest and skills is an investment in their future. Music education provides the opportunity for self-expression, creativity and achievement. Proven studies show that music participation improves critical thinking, math skills, self-discipline, and social skills. Find out how an instrumental program can fill the gap and provide for greater self-esteem and constructive activity.

Presenter: Michelle Love, Just Lovin’ Music Studios, Inc.


Exhibitor Presentation

EdVisions Schools: Project-Based Learning Tapping into Kids’ Full Potential
Room 316

EdVisions Schools' innovative project-based learning model integrates student interests and performance assessment with systematic high standards and the latest educational technology. The session also looks at EdVisions Schools' implementation of teacher-ownership models in which educators are given a proprietor's stake in their school's success. They are owners of the instructional program and market their services to a board.

Presenter: Shel Hiscock, EdVisions Schools


Exhibitor Presentation

Bringing Data to Life 
Room ---

Funding, analysis reports and accountability; these all depend on accurate data and proper tools. Software Technology Inc. (STI) has been supplying schools with cost effective solutions to their data and reporting needs for 20 years. See how STI's suite of integrated school, special education and reporting solutions can bring your data to life and empower everyone to higher achievement.

Presenter: Cory Travers, Software Technology Inc.


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Tuesday March 30th   1:15pm – 2:30pm


Accountability/Accreditation

Using Parent and Student Surveys Effectively
Room 304

How can school administrators use online surveys to cast their net broadly and "listen deeply" to their stakeholders. Learn how your charter school can use online surveys and the "survey-data-feedback" process as part of their "tool kit" to set goals, demonstrate accountability, become accredited, apply for grants and foundation money and adjust school programs to meet the needs of their students

Shareen Bell, webfeedback.com


Business Operations

Business Plans: The All-Purpose Accountability Instrument
Room 105

Business Plans are used to secure funding from banks and foundations; they also organize strategic planning initiatives and action plans incorporating educational programs goals and objectives. They help establish an accountability report card on organization performance, advocacy and public relations. The Panel will present a sample business plan and its many versatile features.

Jan Jablecki and David E. Guthrie, The Camptonville Academy/ Education Synergy Consulting


Business Operations

Donated Computers: What do they really cost? What can you do with them? 
Room 103

There are many ways in which "recycled" equipment can help you achieve operational budget savings. But there are also many risks that can be avoided with careful implementation. You will learn how to integrate donated/recylced equipment into your tech plan, with comparisons to industry "best practices" and cost schedules, and hear real case experiences of charter schools implementing donated technology.

Moderator: Ricardo Mireles, Director of Technology Services & Products, California Charter Schools Association; Mark Miller, The Miller Institute for Learning with Technology;  Tim Mansfield, former Technology Coordinator, East Palo Alto High School; Jean Michel Dault, ADVX.org Project Leader



Business Operations

Regional Business Manager's Meetings: C/Bus Net
Room 306

Understand how to start and/or support Business Managers Meetings in your locale. The session provides insight into how business managers and administrators can manage the business side of school operations through a grant/deadline matrix and by networking with others with related concerns and interests.

Diana Hadfield, Business Roundtable for Education


Facilities

How to Negotiate Prop 39 Requests
Room 318

Proposition 39 requires school districts to provide equal accommodation for charter school students in school district facilities. Learn about implementation issues and recent litigation involving the charter school experience. Understand a new model for evaluating charter school options and strategies under the Prop 39 regulations.

Colin Miller, Director of Policy and Research, The California Charter Schools Association; Paul Minney, SMY&M; Alice Miller, Dave Patterson; Leslie Kasahara, School Facilities Consultant


Leadership

Going from Good to Great – Session 1
Room 319

Taking a school from Good to Great – applying Jim Collin’s book, Good to Great. Learn how two schools worked with the concepts and advice in Jim Collin’s book, and how they successfully implemented them. Then join the presenters for Session 2 to plan how you can facilitate Good To Great in your school.

Janet Adams, Principal Kingsburg Elementary, Charlie Leo, Natomas Charter School


Student Achievement

Developing Effective Programs for English Language Learners
Room 305

This session will demystify jargon related to bilingual education and clarify the steps every school must take to ensure that English Language Learners (ELLs) are getting an appropriate education and that the school is meeting federal compliance requirements. Assess where your school stands. Define and compare six different models and understand how to determine which to choose.

Ariana Quinones, Deputy Vice President, Center for Community Educational Excellence, National Council of La Raza; Jacqueline Vialpando, Language and Literacy Coordinator National Council of La Raza


Student Achievement

Effective Instructional Design: Aligning Standards, Assessment and Instruction
Room 102

In this interactive session, participants will examine the use of a comprehensive, process-oriented approach to instructional design and delivery which articulates the vital relationships between standards, assessment, and instruction.

Jason Stricker and Michael Moody, Insight Education Group, Inc.


Student Achievement

A Day in the Life at High Tech High
Room 201

Understand how the design elements of High Tech High are making a profound impact on the students who attend High Tech High Schools. Learn about the key aspects of the instructional program, including project-based multi-disciplinary learning, and understand the organizational aspects and architectural design elements of High Tech High Schools.

Jed Wallace, Director, High Tech High Learning


Student Achievement

SARC - School Accountability Report Card
Room 315

Both NCLB and the Calif. Education Code require that you report your school's performance to the public annually. What is required? What is effective? What is the easiest way to get the job done? And how can you put these reports to work recruiting new students and staff, and

Steve Rees, President and Publisher, School Wise Press


Student Achievement

Title: The Nuts and Bolts of Creating a Charter School Self-Study
Room 301

Understand the basics of creating a charter school self-study with an emphasis on strategies for the collection and analysis of data for continuous self-improvement. The California Charter Schools Association and WASC created a set of criteria for the self-study process unique to charter high schools seeking accreditation, and any charter school as an accountability tool.

Bill Wellhouse, River Valley High Charter School


Student Achievement

Using a Web-based Curriculum for Home Schooling
Room ---

Participants will learn how Odyssey Charter School in Las Vegas, NV is using a web-based curriculum option to give parents and students an alternative to the traditional setting for education. We will demonstrate how families are totally involved in the educational process within the home.

Connie L. Malin, Susan D'Aniello, Nancy Fitzgerald, Odyssey Charter School


Exhibitor Presentation

Creating a Comprehensive Charter School 
Room 101

The foundation of a charter school is the belief that the business of a school is to ensure not only that the students are equipped with critical core knowledge and competence, but also that the structure and operations of the school maximize achievement for all students. Participants will learn the essential operational Components of a High Achieving School and will leave inspired to return back to their sites to faithfully implement them.

Presenter: Kelly Smith and Cindy Lenners, Action Learning Systems


Exhibitor Presentation

Creating Enhanced Multimedia Presentations: Using Microsoft Office, PowerPoint 2003 and Microsoft Producer 2003 
Room 302

Learn how to save time in creating rich presentations for your students and colleagues with this latest version of PowerPoint, including the free add-on Microsoft Producer 2003. Easily create, organize, synchronize and publish all types of media elements including slides, audio, and video files, images and animations to create more effective learning interactions between faculty and students.

Presenter: Joy Dakin, Microsoft Corporation


Exhibitor Presentation

EAST (Environmental and Spatial Technology) – a Project Oriented Strategy for Technology Education 
Room 303

The EAST model has been recognized nationally as a successful approach to education. Combining relevant and emerging technologies with significant community service projects, students from over 200 schools nationally (nearly 50 in California) are making a difference in their world. Attendees receive free evaluation software

Presenters: Matt Dozier, EAST, Inc and Tom Lazear, Archway Systems


Exhibitor Presentation

There's More To It Than MUSIC! 
Room ---

Music in Education is a complete, technology-assisted program for teaching General Music. But the benefits are MORE than measurable, MORE than meaningful and MORE than musical! Learn more about Music in Education, how it can affect children's development and why it might be one of the most important parts of any school curriculum!

Presenter: Tom Wheeler, Yamaha Corporation


Exhibitor Presentation

It’s 10 past 8. Do You Know Where Your Kids Are? 
Room ---

How do you know if your students are really getting it? Learn through this hands-on workshop how teachers can gather student responses in real time and use that data to adjust their teaching so that they can be sure all students get it before they leave! See how you can compile student data, build a profile, and recommend a course of intervention so that students can meet the standards.

Presenter: Werner Garciano, Texas Instruments, Inc.


Exhibitor Presentation

Building Multiple Paragraph Essays: All Students can write at Standard
Room ---

This exciting session will feature successful writing techniques designed to scaffold learning so all students can write at standard. Research-based graphic organizers (for summaries, narrative essays, responses to literature, persuasive essays, and information/research reports) will be shared. 

You won't want to miss these powerful techniques to increase vocabulary, improve sentences structure, and transform paragraphs into at-standard essays. You will leave with strategies and tools to use immediately in your classroom or with other teachers.

Presenter: Ted Hooks, The Learning Headquarters

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Tuesday March 30th   3:15pm – 4:30pm


Accountability/Accreditation

The Hard Knocks of Accountability
Room 305

This session will discuss ways to engage and make learning meaningful for independent study students. We will focus on the balancing of attendance, academic and behavioral regulations with sound ethical teaching in the independent study format and how to generate high accountability for teachers, students and schools.

Laura Barrel, Natomas Charter School


Advocacy/PR/Marketing

Legislative Update
Room 315

The California Charter Schools Association will provide updates on the latest legislation and initiatives.

Branche Jones, Director of Governmental Affairs, The California Charter Schools Association; Colin Miller, Director of Policy and Research, The California Charter Schools Association


Authorization/Oversight

Charter Renewal Simulation: The Importance of Making the Case
Room 318

Charter school renewal decisions test the