RES 368 Draft 01 2008-2010 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Exhibit "A" 4. Current NCLB data indicate the three schools to be in varying stages of the AYP continuum. The current momentum that Kohala Middle School has could be jeopardized were it to be disrupted during this crucial year. Should Kohala Middle School meet its AYP targets this year, it will emerge as a school in good standing. 5. Lack of necessary classroom space was a primary consideration. The elementary school, utilizing state guidelines, currently posts a negative balance in terms of classroom space. In addition, the school has an agreement to encroach on the high school campus to house its library. Although based on enrollment and class size the high school would appear to have an excess of space, the reality is that it requires all of its classroom space to provide a curricular program that is broad enough to address both graduation requirements and an elective program. 6. Expansion of physical infrastructure that would be required if consolidation occurred poses a problem for the high and elementary campuses as there is no land that would be needed for extra classes. In the master plan, the parking area across from the schools was designated as the area for expansion; however, since the master plan was drawn, much of the area was used for drainage and is not suitable for construction. Estimates are that a minimum of 10 additional classrooms are needed to accommodate a consolidation model that only conservatively addresses core requirements. 7. The task force also considered negative impacts on traffic at the receiving schools. One road off the area's only highway provides access in and out of the Kohala High and Elementary campuses. An additional 200 students attending school here would significantly increase traffic congestion which currently experiences long lines going into and coming out of the school in the mornings and after school. An additional 50 or more cars will create even more congestion during these times. Space for parking for staff would also be a challenge. 8. The recent investment in technology and equipment at the middle school should also be considered. Within the last year, a new telephone system, septic system, and technology equipment was installed. By year end, every classroom on the middle school campus will be equipped with an interactive whiteboard, response systems, computers, interactive tablets, and elmos. The investment of new technology totaled well over $400,000. Abandoning a campus that recently invested in these improvements is questionable. 9. Considerations for a quality middle school program would be compromised with consolidation. Highly qualified teacher designations would become an issue. Currently, the majority of teachers in the Kohala Complex are considered highly qualified. Current HQT difficulties experienced by a neighboring school moving to a K -8 configuration provide precedence for issues that would arise if consolidation was recommended. Further, the hands -on and interactive learning being developed currently may be impacted due to space limitations and teachers unfamiliar with middle school instructional practices. This middle school is currently developing a special partnership with the adjacent Hawaii Wildlife Center; this opportunity for students to experience authentic learning at this unique bird rehabilitation facility would be eliminated if the middle school left their current location. This campus' nurturing environment would be compromised if consolidated as decisions would encompass the needs of everyone on campus, with high school student needs most likely taking priority. 2