Salt Lake School for the Performing Arts, Inc.
a Charter School for the Performing arts Inin Partnership with Highland High School and the Salt Lake City School District
August 15, 2005

Name of the Proposed Charter School: Salt Lake School for the Performing Arts
Address of Proposed Charter School: Proposed location adjacent to Highland High School
Date Application Submitted to District: August 15, 2005
Authorized Applicant Information:
Name: David Schmidt
Address: 1665 E. Princeton Avenue
City: Salt Lake City
State: UT
Zip: 85105
Daytime Phone: 583-1555
Fax:
Email Address: dave@gottasing.com
Description of Group or Organization: Salt Lake School for the Performing Arts, a Non-Profit Organization.

School InformationSCHOOL INFORMATION

Name: Salt Lake School for the Performing Arts
Address: proposed located adjacent to on the campus of Highland High School at: 2166 South 1700 East
City: Salt Lake City
State: UT
Zip: 84105
Phone: TBD 801-466-6700
Fax: 801-485-1707
Website Address: TBD saltlakeSPA.org
School district: Salt Lake City School District
Date School Will Begin: August 2006
Grade Levels or Student Ages to be served: Grades 9 – 12
Number of Students to be served: 400

Conversion of an Existing Public School N/A

The Board will have shared authority for running the school with the following responsibilities:

• Hire/dismiss the SLSPA’s director/principalPrincipal and Artistic Director.
• Evaluate performance of the principalPrincipal and the Artistic Director. [Comment 2]
• Hire/dismiss and supervise teachers and staff based upon recommendations from the principalPrincipal and the Artistic Director. [Comment 1]
• Evaluate performance of all teachers with input from the principalPrincipal and the Artistic Director. [Comment 1]
• Promote the mission of the SLSPA.
• Oversee the school fundraising.
• Assure financial responsibility and accountability.
• Approve budget and overseeing adherence.
• Contracting for an approving independent audit.

The Board will meet monthly to:

• Fulfill primary responsibilities.
• Discuss logistics of school operations.
• Consider and approve new or amended policies or procedures.
• Hear Board members reports or concerns.
• Consider concerns and/or questions from parents, teachers, students and community through an advisory council.
• Address any other school issues.

3.0 Chief Administrative Officer

The Chief Administrative Officer will be the principal/directorPrincipal of the school. That person will be selected early in 2006. The selection and supervision of the director/principalPrincipal will be the responsibility of the Board. The director/principalPrincipal will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the school. The director/principalPrincipal will be responsible for financial expenditures; hold regular faculty meetings; supervise teachers and other staff; ensure school curriculum meets curriculum required by the state of Utah; implement Board decisions; and promote the school’s mission, philosophy and goals. The principal Principal will hire necessary administrative staff as needed and approved by the Board. All administrative , facility, and teacher staffs staff members and teachers report to the director/principalPrincipal. [Comment 1]

3.1 Principal - Job Description and Qualifications

SLSPA will seek applicants for the position of Principal who shall who possess some or all of the following skill and/or experience:
• Masters degree or equivalent work experience in the field of education.
• Administrative license or will operate within state rule.
• Prior teaching experience, especially within the chosen curricula emphasis of the school. [Comment 1]
• A demonstrated ability to treat faculty, parents, and students with respect and provide honest communication.
• A demonstrated ability to incorporate our stakeholders (parents, students, board, community, etc.) in the problem solving and decision making process.
• Demonstrated eExperience managing and monitoring business goals and outcomes.
• Experience managing performance and holding others accountable for performance.
• Additional certifications, degrees, or training relevant to middle and high school education. [Comment 2]
• Prior to initiating the staff selection process, a detailed employment application shall be created and posted in accordance with Utah law.

SLSCPA will expect its Principal to fulfill the following responsibilities:

Overarching Duties

• Demonstrates commitment to SLSPA’s vision and mission and communicates that vision and missionthem it to school personnel, the students, and families, and the community.
• Models school values for students, parents and the Board.
• Functions as a visible leader maintaining frequent contact with students and staff.
• Exercises a participatory management style with staff.
• Communicates effectively by written and oral methods.
• Facilitates activities for families and staff to encourage community and shared purpose.

Specific Educational Leadership Duties

• Participates in the hiring and evaluation of staff.
• Oversees planning and evaluation of programs and set priorities for programs.
• Coordinates design of curriculum with Board, staff, and volunteers.
• Administrates all school-based programs.
• Administers services of resource personnel.
• Assists staff in evaluating their methods and instructional materials.
• Designs schedules.
• Develops cooperation and teamwork within staff.
• Assists staff in accommodating individual student needs and abilities.
• Monitors student progress, discipline, health and safety.
• Provides perspective on educational issues with the school’s Board on a regular basis.
• Recommends plans for improvement of instruction, school philosophy, and school policies.
• Assists the board in evaluating the school’s progress on established priorities.

Community Relations Duties

• Promotes and develops a professional relationship with the school’s Board and staff.
• Seeks and considers opinions of others in a timely fashion.
• Provides information to community, media, and interested parties about the school, its programs, and progress towards goals.
• Develops all printed materials needed for the operation of the school.
• Serves in a liaison capacity with requisite State entities on an administrative and/or educational matter.
• Assists with the recruiting, scheduling, and training of volunteers within the school.

Managerial Duties

• Approves and authorizes: building usage, budget items, permanent record maintenance, building maintenance, all school-based activities and schedules, purchase and utilization of material resources, equipment, textbooks and supplies.
• Plans and implements the staff development program.
• Delineates all responsibilities and authority, establishing lines of communication and supervision.
• Develops enthusiasm and promotes positive morale among staff and parents.
• Actively leads and participates in the development of the master budget.

3.2 Artistic Director - Job Description and Qualifications

The Principal and Artistic Director will be the co-managers of the school’s performing arts curricula. [Comment 1] The selection of the Artistic Director will be the responsibility of the Board with recommendations from the Principal. The Artistic Director will assist the Principal in ensuring the coordination of the school’s performing arts tracks; ensuring the school curricula meets the requirements of State of Utah; [Comment 2] implementing Board decisions; and promoting the school’s mission, philosophy and goals.

The Artistic Director will be a SLSPA’s liaison with and coordinate between SLSPA, Highland High School, the local arts community, and the Salt Lake City School District. The Artistic Director will be responsible for identifying and applying for grants that will assist the school with its performing arts mission.

SLSPA will seek applicants for the position of Artistic Director who shall possess some or all of the following skills and/or experiences:

• Masters degree or equivalent work experience in the field of performing arts education. [Comment 3]
• Prior teaching experience, especially within the performing arts curriculum emphasis of the school. [Comment 4]
• A demonstrated ability to treat faculty, parents, and students with respect and provide honest communication.
• A demonstrated ability to incorporate our parents, students, board, community, and all interested parties the problem solving and decision making process.
• Experience in managing and monitoring performing arts goals and outcomes.
• Additional certifications, degrees, or training relevant to high school education in performing arts.

SLSCPA will expect its Arts Artistic Director to fulfill the following responsibilities:

Overarching Duties

• Demonstrates a commitment to SLSPA’s vision and mission and communicates that vision and mission to school personnel, the students, and families, and the community.
• Models school values for students, parents, and the Board.
• Functions as a visible leader maintaining frequent contact with students and staff.
• Exercises a participatory management style with staff.
• Communicates effectively by written and oral methods.
• Facilitates activities for families and staff to encourage community involvement and shared purpose.

Specific Educational Leadership Duties

• Assists in planning, evaluation, and setting of priorities of the performing arts programs.
• Coordinates design of the performing arts curricula with Board, staff, and volunteers, [Comment 5] including courses with joint enrollment of Highland and SLSPA students.
• Assists the arts staff faculty in evaluating their methods and instructional materials.
• Designs arts schedules and coordinates with Highland High staff.
• Develops cooperation and teamwork and a sense of shared purpose between the within both Highland and SPA staffs.
• Assists staff in accommodating individual student needs and abilities.
• Provides perspective on performing arts educational issues with the school’s Board on a regular basis.
• Recommends plans for improvement of the school’s arts instruction, school philosophy, and school policies.
• Assists the board in evaluating the school’s progress on established arts priorities.
• Coordinates school performing arts productions with faculty, staff, and Highland High, and Salt Lake City School District personnel.
• Applyies for grants to support the performing arts courses and productions.
• Coordinates the concept, development, and maintenance of physical facilities to support the performing arts coursework and productions.
• Establish and coordinate an Advisory Board of professional performing artists in from the community.

Community Relations Duties

• Promotes and develops a professional relationship with the school’s Board and staff.
• Seeks and considers opinions of others in a timely fashion.
• Provides information to community, media, and interested parties about the school, its programs, and progress made towards published goals achievement.
• Assists in developing printed materials needed for the operation of the school.
• Serves in a liaison capacity with State and District education professionals and Highland High school on performing arts educational matters.
• Assists with the recruiting, scheduling, and training of volunteers within the school.

Managerial Duties

• Assists in delineating responsibilities and authority of the performing arts faculty.
• Develops enthusiasm and promotes positive morale among staff and parents.
• Actively leads and participates in the development of the master performing arts curricula.

4. Parental Involvement

Parental involvement is crucial to the success of SLSPA. We value parental input and feedback. Parents will be encouraged to volunteer and participate in the Parent Teacher Organization and/or serve on the Governing Board. Other volunteer opportunities will be communicated to parents through a newsletter and school website. All parents will be encouraged to provide constructive criticism and offer alternatives and/or solutions. When issues or concerns are raised, interested parents may be asked to participate in a research committee to study the issue and offer alternatives/solutions to the Governing Board for consideration. In particular, we intend to host public Parent Dialogues so that interested parents can voice concerns, make well thought-out proposals for change, and participate in other meaningful ways.

The school will provide parents the opportunity for hands-on involvement in the education of their children. Parents who may not be available to volunteer during school hours may volunteer by doing things that may be done at home, in the evenings, or on weekends.

Parents will be encouraged to volunteer in a number of ways that may include committees, fundraising, office help, field trips, classroom help, tutors, assemblies, and others. A volunteer coordinator will be recruited to oversee volunteerism. The coordinator will organize and plan volunteer schedules, track volunteer hours, and disperse volunteer schedules.

By volunteering, parents will be key in easing some of the burdens on teachers and staff. Parental involvement may also allow teachers to focus more on their teaching by relieving them of some of the everyday secondary tasks required in the classroom, and provide parents a feeling of ownership in the school and their children’s education. and develop Developing strong parent/teacher relationships that will be an effective in means of enhancing and maximizing the learning experience of every child.

Each parent will automatically be included as a member of the Parent Advisory Association that will address the needs of the school community. Members of the Parent Advisory board will potentially serve on a Board appointed task force or committee and be encouraged to attend the monthly Board meetings. At Board meetings, parents are invited to make comments and suggestions related to school policies, procedures, programs, curriculum, and other issues being discussed at the meetings.

Communication with parents is key to the school’s success. The SLSPA will be subject to all State and Federal laws regarding this issue. Parents will be welcome to visit the school or classroom any time as long as they do not cause a disturbance to that inhibits effective classroom instruction.

5. Communication with Parents

Parents of the students attending SLSPA are vital to the success and operation of the school. Part of this vital involvement will be taking part in the many opportunities to help establish new and varied ways of improving the school. Parents may serve as committee chairs, and participate in the parent organization. In addition, parents will be asked to provide feedback and suggestions through surveys. Parents who have complaints or suggestions they would like to have considered will be invited to present them in writing to the Principal, Artistic Director and/ or the governing Board. Parents will be encouraged to provide alternatives and suggestions, and may be asked to lead a special committee to research and present options.

6. Complaints

Parent complaints will be taken seriously by SLSPA. Specific complaints will be addressed according to the following guidelines:

• Individuals with complaints should initially attempt to resolve the problem by addressing the parties directly involved.
• If disagreements cannot be resolved individually, the Principal or Artistic Director may serve as mediator to resolve concerns and facilitate understanding.
• Problems that cannot be resolved with the Principal may be presented to the Governing Board for consideration. The issue should be stated in writing and should specify the prior attempts at resolution both individually and with the Principal mediator. The Governing Board will investigate the complaint and make a decision according to the student’s best interests of all parties involved. [Comment 1]

STUDENTS

1. Notification

SLSPA will prepare public service announcements in both English and Spanish for broadcast on local radio and television stations, and a press release for dissemination to all of the major print media in the school district. The for the purpose is to of informing the general public of the enrollment period and location of the school. The Governing Board will conduct community meetings and presentations on the high school in partnership with Salt Lake City, the Salt Lake City School District, and Salt Lake County. The Governing Board will also distribute informative fliers flyers in both English and Spanish throughout the community. Informative posters will be distributed to the Salt Lake City Library and other public locations in the community.

SLSPA also desires to inform Salt Lake City School District schools about the unique opportunities afforded to students who may attend SLSPA. Drama and voice teachers will be visited by school officials, notifying them of the open enrollment procedures at the school. By reaching out to SLCSD students, SLSPA will ensure that local children are afforded every opportunity to participate in the open enrollment period.

2. Selection

Following the notification period, an Open Enrollment Period will be established, during which . Applications will be received by the Board via mail, e-mail, and delivery. Within two weeks of receiving an application, the Board will notify applicant of receipt. An application will not be considered complete until such notice has been received. The Open Enrollment Period will allow for at least thirty (30) days to receive applications.

All complete applications will be added to an applicant pool. Prospective students will be given the opportunity to enroll regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, sex, social or economic status, or special needs. The first priority for enrollment will be given to children of founding current staff members. After which, students will be selected by a computer-generated random draw conducted in an open meetings. This random draw will begin with the 12th grade students. When a student is chose, the siblings of the applicant will also be invited to enroll, provided there are openings. [Comment 1] The random draw will continue down to the 11th grade, then 10th grade, etc. Eligible students already enrolled will be given preference to re-enrollment during subsequent years. Siblings of enrolled students will also be given preference relative to other applicants. [Comment 1] Applicants will be notified in writing of their status or any change of status following the original lottery and subsequent lotteries. This notice will be provided within thirty (30) days of the application deadline.

3. Standards

SLSPA will assemble a student handbook including clear behavioral expectations and consequences for acceptable and unacceptable behavior. Parents and students will be provided with this handbook and will be expected to sign a behavioral contract agreeing to abide by these guidelines. Generally our behavioral policy will be guided by the following ideals:

• Mutual respect between all parties
• Issues should be addressed with related person(s).
• Zero Tolerance for teasing, putdowns, etc.

SLSPA will implement a school dress code policy for its students in accordance with state and federal law.

4. Dismissal

Ultimately student discipline will be conducted at the discretion of the Principal and he/she may utilize any means he/she feels is necessary to ensure a safe learning environment is maintained, as long as it is lawful and does not violate the rights of the student. If a student does not comply with the expectations outlined in the student handbook, SLSPA will attempt to resolve the problem by employing any or all of the following steps:

Step 1 - Parent/Guardian Notification: This may be written and/or verbal. This notification may be given by teachers, Principal, Artistic Director, or any other supervising adult. [Comment 2] Notification may require parent signature and/or a conference with the referring adult.

Step 2 – Principal Intervention and Parent/Guardian Notification: This will include a mandatory meeting with attended by the Principal, the parent/guardian, the student, and/or any other involved parties.

Step 3 - Suspension and/or Parent/Guardian Supervised Attendance: After due process for up to three (3) days with re-admission after a conference with principal, parent/guardian, student, and others parties as determined by the principal which will be provided within those 3 days this timeframe.

Step 4 – Suspension up to five (5) days with readmission contingent upon hearing and determination of the Governing Board. This hearing will be provided held during this five day period.

Step 5 – Expulsion after due process for the remainder of the semester and/or school year with a hearing by the Governing Board to determine eligibility for re-enrollment. This hearing will be conducted within one week of the student’s expulsion.

The Principal will be responsible for understanding the legal requirements for discipline in relation to students with disabilities. In most cases behavioral expectations will be the same for all students at the school unless the behavior is a manifestation of a student’s disability and/or special considerations have been made relative to a student’s IEP. Ultimately ensuring the safety of all students and school personnel will be a priority.

TEACHING STAFF

1. Screening and Selection

The SLSPA expects to include teachers, administration, and parents in a collaborative effort to create a true learning community to meet the needs of each student. All will be encouraged to use their skills, ideas, and creativity to resolve various issues facing individual students or the academy as a whole.

The school will select its personnel directly and in compliance with all Federal and State rules and regulations. The Board in collaboration with the director/principalPrincipal, and Artistic Director will be reasonable for the hiring, supervision, and evaluation of the school’s teaching staff as well as for periodic contract review. All teaching staff will be evaluated receive a performance evaluaton on a yearly basis. The Board will be responsible for evaluating the performance of the Principal and Artistic Director on an annual basis. The director/principal and the ‘Board will review all contracts periodically.

The Board or director/principal A designated and appropriately trained member of the Administrative Staff will mustcomplete background checks and /or order drug testing on prospective or currentemployees. This staff member will be responsible for maintaining confidential records of the completed screening tests as well as for renewing them on a period basis for all then current employees. Volunteers, who in any form come in unsupervised contact with the student body, will also be required to submit to a background check. [Comment 1]

2. Qualifications

The qualifications of the SLSPA principal are outlined above. [Comment 2] SLSPA will hire teachers in accordance with Utah State requirements for public school teachers. This includes certification and/or alternative certification as required by Utah law per Utah Charter School law 53A-1a-512.4. Ongoing employment at SLSPA is contingent upon meeting and or exceeding and maintaining these requirements.

SLSPA also intends to hire part-time employees teaching staff that are not may or may not be certified. Such All part-time employees teaching staff will meet minimum skill requirements for teaching at the school.

In addition, SLSPA will seek teachers with the following skills and experience:

• Prior teaching experience, [Comment 3] especially within the chosen curricula and/or chosen life skills processes.
• A demonstrated commitment to learn new curricula, as well as to propose improvements.
• A demonstrated ability to treat colleagues, parents, and students with respect and honest communication.
• A demonstrated willingness to collaborate with teachers, faculty and parents to creatively solve problems and make innovative decisions that will benefit the school.
• Demonstrated use of technology, both as a learning tool and to manage classroom activities.
• Confidence in managing volunteer efforts.
• Additional certifications, degrees or training relevant to high school education. [Comment 4]
• Leading instruction sessions in the chosen curricula.
• Teaching and adapting instruction to various development levels.
• Certifications in specific curriculum instruction. [Comment 4]

3. Staffing Patterns

It is proposed that students will rotate among classes at both SLSPA and Highland High School. For example, SLSPA students may take academic courses such as English, Math, Science, etc at Highland High while arts courses such as Dance, Art, Music and Theater will be taken at SLSPA. Further, it is anticipated that students of Highland High School will be able to take courses in the arts at SLSPA. Staffing requirements will be determined based on the number of students taking courses at each school and when the courses are offered. A sSpecific course offerings and where they will be taken are indicated in the Curriculum and Instruction section.

4. Teaching Schedule

Teaching schedules will follow the same A/B block schedule that is used at Highland High School. Full-time teachers will have one consultation period every day and will teach three classes per day.

CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION

1. Purpose

The Salt Lake School for the Performing Arts seeks to instill in its students the life skills of creativity, confidence, collaboration, communication and leadership. We will encourage self-expression, nurture self-esteem, and challenge the imagination. The school will provide students with the opportunity to learn from the finest performers and educators in their fields. where theThe quality of the creative effort at SLSPA will fosters confidence, joy, self-discipline, and a deep, abiding love of excellence and high achievement.

SLSPA is being created from a realization that education with a focus on the arts can enhance learning. Both national and local educators agree that arts education is a stimulant for academic achievement as well as training for artists and the development of cultural appreciation. By focusing on the arts, our students and staff will generate a lively, happy, and successful community in which they the students will have the opportunity to thrive academically and socially.

Gifted young performers will be provided highly specialized and rigorous training in the arts while still focusing on important academic achievement. To learn, to sing, to dance, to play, to act…these are the aspirations of our young performers.

Some students need to discover success in a different way than those provided by traditional, competitive and large high schools. There will be an overall desire within the school to see each and every one of our students unlock their gifts and talents so as to become the best people they can be despite the growing pressures and difficulties they face on their journeys through adolescence. SLSPA will offer unique performing arts curriculum focused on the individual. The school will nurture, without exception, the values of individual accomplishment and independence. Since individual creativity is integral to the production of art, our faculty and staff will work with students on an individualized, human level that stimulates intellectual, artistic, and technical originality. By providing such an environment, we will strive to graduate young people who can work independently and creatively.

The programs of the school will be designed for motivated students who desire the most from their efforts in the performing arts and in the classroom. Whether the choice is to make a career of their art or merely to participate in it briefly is of no importance. We desire to create a positive learning and performing experience for all students, and to provide the knowledge and inspiration to take their art to the next level.

2. Curriculum

The following outlines the course offerings for the school:

COLLABORATIVE CURRICULUM BREAKDOWNCollaborative Curriculum Breakdown | Basic PremisesBASIC PREMISES

1. SPA students would be (on average) 3/8 at SPA and 5/8 at HH.
2. As many HH students as possible would will have the opportunity to take specialized, advanced courses in the arts at SPA.
3. SPA students would complete their 1.5 “fine arts core” classes at Highland.
4. All SPA classes would will be for elective credit to ensure them SPA the freedom to hire non-certified, working practitioners in the arts, to teach their specialized classes.
5. The course offerings for HH and SPA would will be cross-listed at each institution.

*= Course to be added after first year

SPECIFIED GRADUATION CREDITS
FAC=Fine Arts Credit (1.5) ATC=Applied Tech Credit (1.0)
SSC=Social Studies Credit (2.5) LAC=Language Arts Credit (3.0)
CTC=Computer Tech Credit (0.5) MAC=Mathematics Credit (2.0)
PEC=Physical Ed. Credit (2.0) FLC=Financial Lit. Credit (0.5)
SCC=Science Credit (2.0)
TOTAL CREDITS: 15.0 ELECTIVE CREDITS: 9.0
EXTRA CORE 1.5 CREDITS (1/3 of the extra 4.0 w/8 periods) if not early grad. In Math, Language Arts, World Languages, Science, Social Studies
TO GRADUATE: 24.0 Credits (Average of 4.0 specified credits per year.) [Comment 1]

KEYS TO MAXIMIZING SPA STUDENT TIME AT SPA:3. Keys to Maximizing SPA Student Time at SPA

1. Getting students to commit to staying for four years.
2. Early morning seminary (could free up 4.0 credits over four years0)
3. Summer intensive academic classes.
4. Apply for academic core credit for certain SPA courses, most likely possibilities:

A. Theatre History, Music History, or Humanities
For Social Studies Credit: Geography for Life (0.5) or World Civ. (0.5), Or at least the 1.5 Extra Core.
B. Dance Classes (teacher must have dance and/or PE endorsement)
For PE Credit: fitness for Life (0.5), Individual Lifetime Activities (0.5)
C. Dramatic Literature, Playwriting for Language Arts Credit: Or at least the 1.5 Extra Core.
D. Offer a Financial Literacy course for SPA students (flexible certification) with an emphasis in arts management and grant-writing (saves 0.5)
E. Cover computer literacy in a technology-based SPA class and facilitate the state-approved competency exam (saves 0.5)
5. Note that 1.5 Specified Credits is Fine Arts Core, fulfilled at HH.
Students need to get an average of 4 core classes per year, plus pass the computer lit test. [Comment 1]

RECOMMENDED BASIC COURSE LOAD FOR SPA STUDENTS4. Recommended Basic Course Load for SPA Students:

Class Distribution

4.0 Academic Core Classes at Highland.
2.0 Arts Classes within a Specialty Area (could be individualized) at SPA.
1.0 Arts Class outside the Specialty Area at SPA or Arts Class at Highland.
1.0 Open Elective for Seminary, foreign languageLang, Driver’s Ed, HH Arts, or more.SPA

PROPOSED SPA FACILITIES

A. PERFORMANCE SPACE that can be divided, with solid dividers, into
1. ACTING STUDIO (open space, black floor, scenic tape outlines)
2. LECTURE ROOM (portable multimedia, 30-40 desks)

B. DANCE STUDIO (sprung or double-sprung floor, sound, mirrors)

C. MUSIC ROOM (for midsized vocal and instrumental groups)

D. PRIVATE MUSIC PRACTICE ROOMS (solo or small group)

E. COMPUTER/TECHNOLOGY LAB (adj. to control book, 2nd level?)
• PC’s and Mac’s for writing, design, video editing
• Keyboards
• MIDI & Recording stations
• Solo or small group recording studio

F. SCENIC STUDIO (Main level, wide scenery portal, adj. to Perf. Space)

G. DESIGN STUDIO (Basement w/natural light)
• Drafting boards
• Sewing stations
• Prop workbench

H. STORAGE (Basement)
• 100-200 feet of rack space (some may be double-stacked, enclosed?)
• 500-1000 square feet of scenic storage
• Properties storage

I. OFFICE SUITE INCLUDING:
• ADMINISTRATOR OFFICE
• SECRETARY/TREASURER SPACE (doubles as box office?)
• FACULTY OFFICE (“bullpen”, cubicles, or work stations)

J. RESTROOMS & DRESSING/LOCKER ROOMS (Main level?)

K. Elevator (two to four levels)

PROJECTED CLASS USE OF SPA FACILITIES (John Newman, July 14)

A. PREFORMANCE SPACE
1. ACTING STUDIO (4 – 6 +)
Individual/Small Group Acting Voice
Advanced Acting Workshop (2 Sections)
Directing Workshop
Scenic Design & Construction
*Stage Lighting
*Small Space Stage Crew
(Could be used as extra acting/rehearsal/vocal space)
2. LECTURE ROOM (4 – 6 +)
Music Aesthetics
Dramatic Literature
Theatre History
Directing Workshop
*Small Space Stage Crew
*Stage Lighting
(Could be used as extra acting/rehearsal/vocal space)

B. DANCE STUDIO (5+)
Advanced Choreography
Modern Dance and/or Jazz Dance
Ballet
Dance Ensemble
Musical Theatre/Tap Dance
(Could be used as extra acting/rehearsal/vocal space)

C. MUSIC ROOM (8)
Chamber Winds
Chamber Strings
Jazz Combos
Beginning Guitar
Individual/Small Group classical & Popular voice
Small Vocal Ensembles
Play & Musical Theatre Production vocal Rehearsal
Show Choir

D. PRIVATE MUSIC PRACTICE ROOMS (8 periods x students/period)
Individual Instrument & Vocal Practice
Advanced Piano/Accompaniment

E. COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY LAB (7)
Music Composition
Advanced Piano
*2nd Term Music Elements & Tech
Scenic Design and Construction
*Stage Lighting
Sound Engineering and Recording
Film and Video Production

F. SCENIC STUDIO (4)
Scenic & Lighting Design & Construction
Beginning Stagecraft
Small Space Stagecrew
Auditorium Stagecrew

G. DESIGN STUDIO (3 TO 4)
Scenic Design and Construction
Costume Design and Construction
Beginning Stagecraft
*Props and Masks

HIGHLAND FACILITIES USAGE (John Newman, July 14)

A. TRAPEZOID (5)
Theatre Foundations 1-2 (2 Sections)
Theatre Foundations 3-4 (1 Section)
Playwriting (1 Section)

B. AUDITORIUM (2)
Beginning Stagecraft
Auditorium Stage Crew

C. LITTLE THEATRE (1)
Small Space Stage Crew

D. INSTRUMENTAL ROOM (6)
Concert Band
Wind Ensemble
Symphony Orchestra
String Orchestra
Jazz Band
1st Term Music Elements & Tech

E. CHOIR ROOM (4)
Freshman choir
Chorale
Concert Choir
Madrigals
Play & Musical Theatre Production Vocal Rehearsal

F. PRACTICE ROOMS (possible all periods)
Individual Instrument Practice

G. PIANO LAB (3)
AP Music Theroy, Beginning Piano #1, Beginning Piano #2

H. DANCE STUDIO (4)
Dance I, Dance II, Dance Company, Social/Cultural/Popular Dance

I. HTVS STUDIO (3)
Film and Video Production & HTVS (2 Sections)

(Plus full loads of classes in Art Crafts, Ceramics, Commercial Art, Drawing, Photography rooms.)

3. CALENDAR

SLSPA will open in the Fall of 2006 and follow a the Standard School Year, which will include 180 days and a minimum of 990 instructional hours. The School will align its calendar with that of the Salt Lake City School District’s traditional high school year calendar.

4. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

The school will provide whatever extracurricular activities in the arts that are feasible. For example, the Junior High and High School drama programs will compete at the Utah Shakespearean Festival competition. The theater arts department will produce three major theater productions. The school will participate at all region and state activities: choir, drama and orchestra solo and ensemble. The dance department will do two major dance programs. The music department will perform in the community and be an ambassador of good will. The music department will do an evening recital at least once a quarter. The art program will look for local art shows to have their work judged and put on display. [Comment 1] [Comment 2]

In addition to activities related to the arts, students may be allowed to participate in standard extracurricular activities offered at Highland High School as per regulations of the Utah High School Activities Association. [Comment 3]

5. WAIVERS

SLSPA intends to hire part-time teachers that are not certified and requests any applicable waivers to do such. SLSPA will also utilize alternative routes to certification available through the Utah State Office of Education. [Comment 4]

6. REPLICABILITY/SUSTAINABILITY

There are no current plans to replicate this charter school. Marketing and recruitment will be ongoing processes to maintain a stable enrollment at levels sufficient to generate necessary funds and serve students in a high quality program.

STUDENT ASSESSMENT

1. Instruments and Procedures

SLSPA will participate in all district and statewide public education assessment programs and end-of-level core curriculum assessments.

2. Reporting and Use

The following will be used to disseminate information regarding student performance to parents and students:

• Report Cards, both mid-term and quarterly
• Parent teacher conferences
• Student teacher conferences
• Learning objectives set by teacher and student
• Measured Milestones
• Student feedback

Once assessments are made, the following procedures will be followed to integrate standards into instructional practices:

• Students will be required to develop personal strategic plans for the academic year. Strategic plans must include milestones that correlate with assessments.
• At the end of the quarter, the students will be required to compare their progress with the milestone dates on the original plan and adjust their academic plans accordingly.

FINANCES AND REPORTING

1. Start-up Funds
The following is the School’s projections for funding needs during the planning year:

Planning Year Revenues
• Federal Start-up Grant: $150,000
• State Start-up Grant: To be determined if available

Planning Year Expenses
• Principal start: $50,000 from Dec 2005 – August 2006
• Teachers start (partial): $15,000 from Jun 2006 – August 2006
• PR and student recruiting: $15,000
• Books ordered: $25,000
• Class supplies: $50,000
• Educational Technology – labs, teaching aids, computers, etc: $45,000
• IT/MIS: $30,000
• Furniture ordered: $50,000

SLSPA will utilize short term financing from local banks to cover any temporary cash shortfalls between the time expenditures occur and the time revenues come in from state and federal sources. [Comment 1]

2. Revenue and Expenditures - See attached budget.

3. Accounting Policies and Procedures
SLSPA will adopt fiscal policies and procedures to safeguard assets; provide compliance with state and federal laws and regulations; and produce timely and accurate financial information. Generally these policies will be as follows:
• SLSPA will follow all the relevant laws and regulations that govern Utah charter schools. Additionally, any state or federal government laws and/or regulations from private sources that relate to grant funding will be adopted as the grant funding is received
• To provide accurate and auditable records of all financial transactions, SLSPA will maintain all books, records, and accounts in conformity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), which include Generally Accepted Governmental Auditing Standards.
• The State Office of Education guidelines for budgeting, accounting, and auditing for Utah schools will be applied in administering and reporting school revenue and expenditures.

• The director/principalPrincipal, with the help of the Board, shall be responsible for preparing and submitting all financial and school reports to the state. This will include, but is not limited to, the State Accountability Report, Financial Audit Report and the financial and Enrollment Report as required by the State Office of Education.
• SLSPA will retain an accounting firm to provide monthly accounting needs. This will include, but is not limited to payroll, monthly reports, quarterly taxes, and tax returns.
• The director/principal Principal and treasurer of the Board will prepare an annual operating budget of revenues and expenses, a cash flow projection, and a capital budget. These budgets and projections are reviewed by and approved by the Board of Directors, and may be modified, as necessary.[Comment 2]

• The Board of Directors shall have the authority to approve and will record in its minutes:
a. approval of the annual operating budgets,
b. incurrence of debt, mortgages,
c. investments and/or purchase or sale of property,
d. opening up or closing checking or savings accounts,
e. selection of a certified public accountant, and
f. other activities associated with the operations of the School.

• Financial statements displaying budget vs. actual results will be prepared by the School’s accountant and reviewed by the director/principal and treasurer of the Board each month. The treasurer of the Board will present a budget update to the Board at each monthly/quarterly meeting. [Comment 2]

I. The Board of Directors will arrange for an independent certified public accounting firm to conduct an audit of the charter School’s financial statements annually.

Fiscal Procedures
The following procedures will govern the appropriation of funds approved in the annual budget.

• The President and/or the Chief financial Officer/Treasurer of the Board of Directors and the director/principal are the only individuals with signatory authority and are responsible for authorizing all cash transactions. Individual checks greater than $5,000 will require dual signatures prior to check issuance. [Comment 2]

• Petty cash payments are made from a fund not to exceed $150, and should be for cash advances, local expense reimbursement, and small-dollar vendor purchases provided proper documentation is furnished with each request. No individual payment shall be greater than $75.

The director/principal [Comment 2] will manage these funds and will provide a monthly statement to the accountant to replenish these monies as needed.

• Employees will be reimbursed at the standard mileage rate per mile as determined by the Internal Revenue Service for use of their own vehicle for business related travel. In addition, parking fees and tolls paid are reimbursable if supported by invoices. All employees requesting such mileage reimbursement are required to furnish a Travel Report containing the destination of each trip, its purpose and the miles driven, parking fees and tolls, within one month after the travel date, supported by invoices, if applicable. [Comment 3]
• All short-term and long-term debt must be approved by the Board of Directors and may not exceed the duration of the charter, without consent of the Board of Education. When applicable, short-term debt consists of financing expected to be paid within one year of the date of the annual audited financial statements. Long-term debt consists of financing that is not expected to be repaid within one year. All debt incurred must be repayable by a realistic repayment plan that is consistent with the approved budget. The Board of Trustee’s reserves the right to pay off debt sooner if budget allows.
• All lease agreements will be evidenced by a lease or sublease agreement approved by the Board of Directors and signed by the President of the Board of Directors. The agreement will identify all the terms and conditions of the lease.
• The School reserves the right to reallocate funds from one line item to another [Comment 4] if purchasing practices or conservation result in an expenditure different than the budgeted amount, to the extent allowed by law and the guidelines of the funding source.
• All capital expenditures must be approved in advance by the Board. [Comment 5]

Budget Policies and Procedures
The following policies relate to the development and implementation of the yearly annual budget.
• The School’s fiscal year will run concurrently from July 1 to June 30.
• Revenue

1. Start–up Funds
The School will request federal start-up funds set aside to assist new charter schools in the first three years of operations. We also will request from the state any state funds that may be earmarked to assist with the establishment of new charter schools. In addition to these funds, SLSPA will pursue additional funding opportunities through public and private grants, corporate sponsors, and fundraising. Should any of these grants, gifts, donations, etc exceed $500 the Board will disclose them in its annual financial report. SLSPA reserves the right to financing of certain expenditures within our start-up budget and/or the right to make budget modifications, should these funds not be available. [Comment 6]

2. Operating Funds
SLSPA’s operating funds will be generated from state WPU programs, on-going state programs (as determined by the legislature), federal funds and grants, private grants, and donations. Fundraising may be done, but will not be part of the annual budget for SLSPA.
• The School retains the right to purchase goods and services through the contracts in effect with the state and its vendors.
• In order that the School shall function on a balanced budget, the charter granting agency agrees to pay all funding to the School in an appropriate and timely manner. If the charter-granting agency fails to make proper payments to the School and the School incurs any fees as a result of said late payments, the charter-granting agency will be held liable for all late fees and/or costs incurred due to the breech of payment.
• Any undistributed reserves at the end of a fiscal year shall be added to the next year’s budget.
• The School will include in its budget, reserves to meet any unexpected or emergency expenditures.

3. Responsibility
• The School agrees to maintain applicable appropriate financial records as required by federal, state, and local laws, rules and regulations, and make such records available to the state and district as requested.
• The School agrees to engage and participate in an independent audit by a certified public accountant of all its financial and administrative operations on an annual basis. The results of the audit will be provided submitted to the Board of Directors and the state in written form within the statutory time limits required by the state and shall be published and posted as required by law. Any cost associated with the audit of the School shall be borne by the School. The School will maintain a comparison of actual expenditures to budgeted expenses.

4. Insurance
Insurance coverage for SLSPA will include General Liability Insurance, Property/Lease Insurance, Workers Compensation Insurance, and Health Insurance [Comment 7] for teachers and selected staff.
• General Liability Insurance: The SLSPA will obtain General Liability Insurance provided by the State of Utah Risk Management Division or contract with a private vendor.
• Property/Lease Insurance: Property Insurance will be obtained when the actual facility site is finalized.
• Workers Compensation Insurance: Workers Compensation Insurance will be provided by the Workers Compensation Fund of Utah as required by State Law.
• Health Insurance for staff: Public employees Health Plan PEHP will be offered to teachers and staff, along with a choice to use services from the private sector.

5. Fees
It is anticipated that SLSPA will charge approximately $60 per student per year in fees. This revenue will be used to fund various activities throughout the year. [Comment 8] Fee waivers are available to ensure that no student is denied the opportunity to participate because of an inability to pay the required fee. The School will provide a variety of alternatives for satisfying the fee requirement to those who qualify for fee waivers, in addition to the outright waiver of the fee. Fees and fee waivers associated with classes and/or activities of SLSPA students and HHS will be administered according to SLCSD policies.

6. Responsibility

SLSPA has engaged the Excel Education Group to assist in the day-to-day operations of the School, including the preparation of financial and educational reports. Excel will make these reports available to the Principal, who will file them with the appropriate agencies. All reports will also be summarized and distributed to the Board. Financial and educational audits will be performed annually to ensure proper reporting. [Comment 2]

SUPPORT SERVICES

1. Transportation - Any transportation needs not provided by students will be contracted out through SLCSD.

2. Food Services - All students will eat lunch at Highland High School and will adhere to school and district policies regarding behavior, payments, and qualifications for free and reduced lunch.

3. Health and Safety - SLSPA will comply with all relevant health and safety codes. The school will engage a facilities service to ensure that the building is clean and is well maintained. A facilities audit will be completed each year, which will report any health/safety issues to the Board.

4. Contacted Services - Aside from the items mentioned above, it is not anticipated that SLSPA will contract any services from SLCSD. As discussed earlier, SLSPA has hired the Excel Education Group to assist with the following:
• Non-profit Incorporation: Excel will submit Articles of Incorporation and provide Bylaws for the creation of the non-profit entity that will govern the school.
• Curriculum consulting: Excel will provide curriculum consultants, at no cost to the Board, to give counsel and input on curriculum decisions being considered by Board.
• Organization of parent support groups: Excel will identify and help organize parent support groups that will demonstrate to the district the need for the new school.
• Application to the School District: Excel will assist in writing the application to the district, based on information and decisions made by the Board.
• Land and facilities: The Board will lease the building from the Salt Lake City School District with agreed upon terms.
• Hiring of principal and teachers: Excel will assist in the identification and processing of potential employees of the school. All hiring decisions will be made by the Board.
• Human Resources Management: Excel will organize and manage the human resource function of the school including the administration of payroll, benefits, and other related human resource functions.
• Financial management, including cost containment: Excel will analyze and administer all financial aspects of the school including but not limited to: human resources, equipping and supplying the school, lunch programs, purchasing, systems integration, etc. Excel will implement best practices in the financial management of the school.
• Grants: Excel will research available grant opportunities for the school. Excel will also implement best practices in private and public fundraising. Revenue generated by Excel will be calculated and reported to the Board annually.
• Facilities management: Excel will analyze and assist with every aspect of managing the school facility including but not limited to: hiring janitorial staff, regular facility maintenance, snow removal, traffic control, facility repairs, etc.
• Facilitation of financial and educational audits: Excel will facilitate the hiring of an outside auditor to report on the finances of the school. Excel will also assist the principal/director in complying with all educational audits required by state or federal agencies.
• Long-term marketing: Excel will use best practices in marketing the school to the community to ensure full enrollment in the school. Excel will work with the Board to develop the “look and feel” that will be used to market the school. Excel will implement ongoing marketing strategies that will include web site design and maintenance, email notifications, newspaper advertising, door to door marketing, and other methods.
• Board development: Excel will work to ensure the Board remains a unified, cohesive, and talented group. Excel will host forums and retreats that will assist the Board in developing leadership capabilities, strategies for the school, and sharing of best practices with other charter and public schools.
• Crisis management: Excel will assist the Board in addressing any potential crisis the Board may face, such as litigation, financial distress, school violence, acts of God, or any other unforeseen events. [Comment 1]

5. Emergencies - SLSPA will use the same emergency procedures as Highland High School and will collaborate with staff at Highland to prepare for any potential emergencies. SLSPA will report these policies and procedures to the District.

FACILITIES PLAN

1. Facilities - SLSPA proposed proposes the construction of an approximately 28,000 square foot building on the campus of Highland High School. The estimated cost of the facility is $3.5 million. The facility will be financed, constructed, and owned by Salt Lake City School District. SLCSD will then lease the facility to the School. [Comment 1]

The following outlines the pProposed features of the SLSPA facility:

2. Open Space - It is proposed that students of SLSPA will use existing open space at Highland High School for P.E. and free time.