List of 6 frequently asked questions.
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STRATEGIC PRIORITY #1 - Promote Innovative Pedagogy and Learning
At Palmer Trinity, we expect our faculty to cultivate academic excellence, through inquiry-based learning, in an increasingly global forum. As we continue to strengthen our academic offerings and enrich our instructional practices, we ensure that each grade and division fully prepares its students for the next level and that our graduates are well equipped for their journey through college, work, and life beyond.
INITIATIVE
Complete our comprehensive scope and sequence of academic skills and content in each department.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Devoted time to department meetings during each professional development day to work on senior/final exit criteria.
- Modified Grant Wiggins’ Backward Design model to identify senior/exit criteria for each discipline.
- Scheduled to complete the overall scope and sequence for the Upper School curriculum by June 2016.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Added the development of a distinctive Scope and Sequence for the MiddleSchool curriculum.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Actively continue the development and implementation of a distinctive scope and sequence for Middle School.
- Created a Middle School Academic Council where Middle School Department Chairs meet weekly.
INITIATIVE
Enrich our academic programs through systematic program review and teacher evaluations, while examining the needs of our student population to address and support the diversity of learning styles.
ACTION AS OF March 2016:
Faculty Evaluation committee has:- Adopted the instrument for faculty observation and evaluation.
- Selected the platform for individual portfolio.
- Presented to faculty and scheduled to pilot evaluations in April 2016.
- Devoted professional development time to researching diversity of learning styles.
- Scheduled collaborative workshops with professors at the College of Education at FIU for spring 2016 which will allow for teacher training in learning styles.
- Sent four teachers to national conferences addressing the topic of teacher evaluations; provided venues for those teachers to share with the rest of the faculty.
- Established a strategic alliance with Lonesome George & Co. in 2015, to offer the Academy of Agents of Change as an Upper School elective. Through approved curriculum and experiential education, this course will offer students the necessary skills and experiences to design, launch, and run their own ventures in social entrepreneurship.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Implemented a new evaluation system which will set a timeline for when faculty will be evaluated and by whom.
- Updated Agents of Change – Modules 4 and 5 to reflect Palmer Trinity School’s overall curriculum.
- Continued to have Faculty and Staff actively serve on Florida Council of Independent Schools (FCIS)
- The entire teaching faculty attended the FCIS Conference in October 2016.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Continued our second year of Faculty evaluations implementing a new process.
- Continued the Theory of Knowledge course using the development of the South Campus as a springboard for innovative learning.
- Reviewed how to develop a process and standard for tutoring/testing, learning resources, and student engagement.
- Instituted a bi-monthly review of students with a C or below (in Middle School) and a C- or below (in Upper School).
- Discussing the re-clarification of the words “Mission Appropriate” in 2018.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019- Established C.E.L.T.( Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning).
- Held Faculty Forums:
- “Executive Functioning” - Nov 2018
- “Cross-Cultural Communication” - Jan 2019
- “History of PTS: Past, Present, Future” - Feb 2019
- Published “Ideas Cafe”- online journal that highlights PTS teachers and pedagogies.
- Hired a second learning resource specialist for the 2019-2020 academic year.
- Continued Courageous Conversations.
- Initiated Homework Cafe - supporting a blend of homework help, tutoring, and study skills underwritten by the school.
- Continued to investigate the adoption of the IB Program in Middle School and Upper School and its implications for PTS. Examined the impact on Admission/College Placement.
- Visited Atlanta International School, GA and St. Andrews, FL for IB Program.
- Added English Topics 6 and English Topics 9 courses.
- Hosted several visitors to the academic program from abroad.
- Devoted professional development time to the FCIS 2019 Self-Study process.
- Participating in the pilot program for the digital SAT Grade 11.
- Established a committee to mentor our boys and offer faculty professional development (#Boyz2goodmen) - Conference in Trinity School, NY. and beginning with athletic teams and moving into other areas to include all.
- Hosted Maclay School from Tallahassee and discussed educational practices.
INITIATIVE
Recruit and retain the most experienced, talented, globally aware, and mission appropriate faculty.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- This ongoing process is led by the Academic Team in conjunction with the Director of Hiring.
- Developed budgets and benefits packages to allow the School to find the most competitive faculty and staff in the marketplace.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Assigned to the Academic Team has been the hiring of all new faculty. This team works in conjunction with relevant personnel for all positions within the School.
- Evaluation and assessment of social entrepreneurship opportunities for students to continue in second semester.
- A curriculum group developed in the summer of 2016 implemented, in the Fall of 2016, a course entitled “The Theory of Knowledge/South Campus.”
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Team approach to hiring continues this semester, building on last year’s success. Resolve to maintain clear timeline of hiring.
INITIATIVE
Review professional development funding to make certain that it aligns with our strategic priorities and allows for institutional growth.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Continue to clarify what is meant by “mission-appropriate” teachers.
- Utilized the generous professional development budget across divisions and disciplines; faculty has attended local and national conferences, such as:
2015-16 Professional Development Dates Event Member Sept. 21 - Dec. 20 Making Thinking Visible: HGSE (Online ) Lisa Colandrea Sept. 28 - 30 The Climate Reality Project Leo Llinas Oct. 1 - 4 Setting the Standard Phebe Hibshman Oct. 1 - 4 Learning and the Brain Katie Lamiell Oct. 15 - 18 Global Education Forum Fred Truby and Brittney McCabe Oct. 30 AP Workshop Lauren Lane, Aldo Regalado, Andrew Godley, Graham Andrew, Ariel Cabrera Nov. 4 - 5 FCIS, Orlando Adrianna Truby Nov. 12 - 13 Miami Device Emily Wilkens, Andrea Fresco, Laura Morin Nov. 12 - 13 National Science Teacher Association Adam Gray Nov. 12 - 13 NIAAA Certification Judi Jennings Nov. 13 - 15 Learning and the Brain, Boston Noel Schael and Brook Bodie Dec. 2015 CPR Sejal Vaywala Dec. 2015 Carney Sandoe Diversity Forum Sejal Vaywala Jan. 2016 Global Connections: Peace Education with Faith Diversity Patrick Roberts and Manjula Salomon Feb. 2 - 8 Carnegie Hall Honors Festival Tim Lester Semester 1 Textbooks Melissa Baitsell 2015 - 2016 Teacher Certification Florida Laura Kujawa Feb. 2016 Mindfulness Retreat Brittney McCabe April 2016 National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Laura Kujawa and Andrea Fresco June 2016 Harkness Institute Melissa Beske and Danesh Singh - Enhanced procedures for teachers to share what they learn at conferences with their colleagues and greater community.
- Designated time and resources for teachers to design innovative curriculum.
- Established Faculty Forum (lecture series) in which professional dialogue can occur.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Established a Faculty Forum (lecture series) in which professional dialogue can occur on a regular basis. Visitors have included Dr. Catherine Steiner Adair (screen addiction expert), Jennifer Pharr Davis (National Geographic Explorer), Dr. Gamarra (FIU), and Harvey Sperling (Belmont University and PTS Board member). Richard Blanco (Poet) will speak in March 2017.
- Continued Professional Development across divisions and disciplines. Faculty and Staff have attended local and national conferences, such as: See Appendix B
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Continued to require teachers who have used Professional Development funds to share information and report regularly to their departments and others.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:2018-19 Professional Development Dates Event Member Topic Summer 2018 NATA (Athletic Training, New Orlenas) Clint Jones Therapy Oct. 15 AP Statistic Workshop Orlando Sarduy AP Stats Sept. 26-29 NACAC, Salt Lake City M. Levin, C. Paschick, A. Armato, A. Truby College Counseling Oct. 2018 AP Workshop B. Rivera, L. Lane, G. Andrew AP Training Oct. 2018 MYP Visit, Atlanta Int. School Katie Sparks and Andrea Fresco MYP Exploration Nov. 2018 Progressing Ballet Technique Kristine Rodriguez Dance Nov. 2018 ISM Conference: Auxiliary Programs Kristine Rodriguez Auxiliary Nov. 2018 NAES (Presenter) Laura Massa Presenting on Womens Studies Nov. 2018 SHAPE Judi Jennings Health Nov. 7 Visit The Benjamin School D. Crute, B. Diaz, J. Rivera Visit/Computer Science Program Nov. 2018 POCC A. Regalado, R. Gonzalez, A. Armato, P. Roberts Diversity and Inclusivity Oct. 1 Presenter: FCIS Roselyne Pirson Intellectual Competency Oct. 2018 PD Day: Self Study Writing All Faculty and Staff Self Study Preparation Oct. 25 GEBG Regional Meeting/Training D. Reynolds, M. Salomon, A. Queen, A. Chapman Risk Management Training Nov. 2018 FCIS Conference P. Roberts Attended Conference Nov. 2018 FCIS Board Meeting P. Roberts Member of Board Nov. 2018 ESJ Accreditation P. Roberts Co-led Accreditation Jan. 25 Learning Specialist Forum: Country Day Host K. Lamiell and A. Fresco Collaboration of Local School Specialists January 7 PD Day: Self Study Writing and Learning from One Another All Faculty and Staff Self Study Preparation; various topics from classroom management to HR January 28 MedStar DC Regional Medical Education K. Sparkes, presenter: Teaching Methodologies Teaching Methodologies Feb 2019 Learning and the Brain Rita Feild Empathy
INITIATIVE
Broaden our forms of assessment and utilize testing data effectively.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Adopted the ACT ASPIRE tests in grades 6-9. The online version allows us to administer three interim tests per year and receive immediate results.
- Provided ongoing training in faculty advisory groups and department meetings for greater understanding of data analysis.
- Met with parent group to encourage a positive mindset toward testing.
- Provided more timely and comprehensive communication to families regarding score reports and shared additional resources.
- Streamlined our tracking of student data for admission tests through final SAT/ACT exams.
- Expanded our testing budget to include the costs of all ASPIRE, PSAT, and AP exams.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Appointed two Testing Directors (internal and external testing).
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Consolidated testing under one Director.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:- Gathered data for Upper School and Middle School on grade level students to view patterns in semester exams to brainstorm ideas on how to better prepare students for taking exams and enhance their test taking skills.
INITIATIVE
Research online, experiential, and blended-learning opportunities and determine our position on each.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Supported faculty members and administrators attending workshops and conferences, as well as visiting different schools around the country. Schools visited this year by administrators and faculty include:
Battle Ground Academy - Franklin, Tennessee
Berkeley Prep - Tampa, Florida
Brimmer and May - Boston, Massachusetts
Campbell Hall - Los Angeles, California
Chadwick School - Los Angeles, California
Christ Episcopal School - Greenville, South Carolina
Emerald Heights School - Indore, India
Florida Prep Academy - Melbourne, Florida
Francis Parker School - San Diego, California
Friends Seminary - New York City, New York
Gulliver Prep - Miami, Florida
Head Royce School - Oakland, California
Marist School - Atlanta, Florida
Montgomery Bell Academy - Nashville, Tennessee
Oyster Bay High School - New Hampshire
Oyster Bay Middle School - New Hampshire
Palmetto Bay Academy - Palmetto Bay, Florida
Ransom Everglades - Miami, Florida
San Francisco Day School - San Francisco, California
St Andrew’s School - Boca Raton, Florida
St. Andrew's Episcopal School - Jackson, Mississippi
St. Philip’s Episcopal School - Coral Gables, Florida
St. Stephen’s Episcopal - Bradenton, Florida
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Day School - Coconut Grove, Florida
St. Thomas Episcopal School - Miami, Florida
Tampa Prep - Tampa, Florida
The Daly College - Indore, India
The McGlannan School - Miami, Florida
Trinity Prep - Winter Park, Florida - Piloted a partner online collaboration independent study course with Chadwick School in Los Angeles, CA, culminating in travel capstone in July 2016.
- Researched the benefits of online/blended learning courses that are not within PTS curriculum.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Initiated discussion for creating a “maker space” in the Middle School.
- Began Middle School Honors Seminar on “Immigration in the USA.” Plan to make it an online/blended learning program in the future.
- Initiated conversations regarding distinctive Middle School Pedagogical Experience.
- Introduced process to have specific MS Department Chairs in English, Math, History, and Science.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Approved a new “makerspace” classroom in the Fall of 2018. Newly created Innovative Coordinator position to be introduced in the Fall of 2018.
- Continued to offer online, experiential and blended learning opportunities.
- Attended the Future Educational Technology Conference (FETC) in Orlando in January 2018.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:- Created three new makerspaces on campus: Innovation Station for MS and The Forge and The Garage for US.
- Hired an Innovation Coordinator to oversee the three makerspaces.
- Repurposed the school garden to incorporate interdisciplinary activities and experiential learning for all sixth-grade students through the Life Science classes.
- Incorporated a hydroponics system to provide experiential learning for all seventh-grade students through Earth Science classes.
- Focused MS Honors Seminar on “Water” for the Spring 2019 semester.
- Piloting Dual Enrollment by partnering with FIU. Two courses have been selected for the Dual Enrollment.
INITIATIVE
Continue to implement the most effective technology across the disciplines, and explore methods and opportunities for teaching responsible use.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Committed to the on-going imperative development of IT integration into teaching and learning.
- Added more than 20 Techboards in various classrooms.
- Planned future purchases of additional Techboards.
- Supported faculty and administrators attending local and national conferences, updating them on recent trends in how technology is being used for education, such as Miami Device at St. Stephen’s, Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) Social Media Conference in Miami, FCIS in 2015.
- Educated students about social media with assistance of special guest experts. A speaker worked with students, faculty, staff, and parents in February 2016.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Established a protocol that all students who travel do not access a device but experience a new environment through their senses.
- Hosted a guest speaker, Dr. Catherine Steiner Adair, of national renown to address the school community about issues of technology and human relationships.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Committed to raising awareness in our community about technology by providing outside speakers, and increasing communication through Advisory and Mosaic programs.
- Continued to gather most current information on social media usage and share with students and faculty.
- Included awareness of social media usage in our statement of commitment regarding respectful and responsible digital citizenship.
- Added virtual reality component to enrich the curriculum.
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STRATEGIC PRIORITY #2 - Celebrate our Episcopal Identity in a Diverse Community
Palmer Trinity is the only Episcopal middle and high school in Miami-Dade County and an active member of the National Association of Episcopal Schools. It should be noted that while many of the local elementary Episcopal Schools join the Palmer Trinity community, our overall student population is diverse. Palmer Trinity School community is committed to fostering and nurturing compassion and respect while recognizing the uniqueness of each child.
INITIATIVE
Continue to evaluate and enhance the overall curriculum of Religious Studies, providing all students with a solid foundation of religious literacy and a more consistent, comprehensive, and meaningful experience.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Developed curriculum to include global religions and cultures in course list.
- Expanded curriculum of Religion and Ethics course to include Middle School.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Implemented a curriculum for World Religions I.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Continued to evaluate and offer curriculum reflecting the symbiotic relationship between religious studies, ethics, and philosophy.
- Researched possible experiential program to the Holy Land to focus on the three Abrahamic Religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:- Named a Department Coordinator of the Religious Studies, Philosophy and Ethics Department.
- Expanded department offerings for other courses include:
- World Religions II: Eastern Religions
- Ethics
- Philosophy
- Christianity in the Postmodern World
- Meeting regularly to discuss other additions to the curriculum.
INITIATIVE
Foster a welcoming environment of respect, kindness, and compassion for persons of all faiths and traditions.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Planned the celebration of holidays and customs from a wide variety of faith traditions.
- Offered individual presentations of different customs and rituals during Convocations and Chapels.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Established traditions for Earth Week, All Saints Day, Veteran’s Day Celebrations organized for all school participation.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:- Expanded Chapel topics which include Ramadan, Hispanic Heritage, Franco Heritage, Asian Heritage, and Women’s History Month.
- Advanced Mosaic education through learning and discussion by emphasizing empathy and compassion for others.
INITIATIVE
Clarify and improve overall school communication regarding our Episcopal Identity by sharing the National Association of Episcopal Schools’ (NAES) Principles of Good Practice.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Included NAES brochure in Admission materials.
- Posted the School Mission, Philosophy, and Guiding Principles throughout the campus.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Continued Education through presentations at Administrative Retreat for FCIS 2016 and at NAES Biennial Conference 2016.
- Faculty and Staff members attended NAES 2016.
- Represented by PTS Chaplain at the NAES Chaplaincy Mentor Program.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Educated and trained Faculty and Staff on Safeguarding God’s Children, an NAES requirement.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:- Presenting at Professional Development Days on the Episcopal Identity.
- Presenting on the Episcopal Identity to the new faculty in the Fall.
INITIATIVE
Enhance and enrich weekly Chapel and Convocation services, by engaging a School Chapel Committee, and empower the student voice through the creation and implementation of a Student Vestry.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Established the Student Interfaith Vestry, which meets monthly, and includes faculty and administrators.
- Redesigned the Chapel Committee to focus on scheduling convocations and chapels with the input of faculty and staff.
- Re-established the Jewish Culture Club, led by the Chaplain and an Administrator.
- Expanded Chapels to include the Chinese New Year and the understanding of Islam.
- Added new rituals to Chapel by including the school prayer, Pledge of Allegiance, and Honor Code at each gathering.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Formed the Jewish Culture Club led by students, and sponsored by a Faculty member and the Chaplain.
- Expanded Chapels to be more inclusive and responsive to global issues including Chapels on the Election 2016, Inauguration 2017, and The Situation in Colombia.
- Identified architect with extensive meetings for discussion and the planning of a new chapel. Extensive planning and action on building a PTS Chapel in the South Campus Plan.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:- Meets regularly with the Advisory Leader, along with the Diversity Chairs to arrange the yearly schedule to activities during the new schedule’s flex time.
- Gathers with the Student Vestry to promote student involvement in Chapels and Community Service Activities.
- Focusing on student-led Chapels.
- Planning and building a Chapel for the Students and Faculty.
INITIATIVE
Support the role of the Chaplain in building relationships through pastoral care and community service.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Worked together to support the Chaplain as she provides pastoral care to members of the community when needed. This year, the Chaplain has been an integral part of several Memorial Services for members of our student, alumni, and parent community, both on and off campus.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Continued writing, by Chaplain, of pastoral prayer responses to global tragedies and environmental disasters to streamline PTS’s reactions to international events.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:- Meets regularly with the Diversity Coordinators.
- Works closely with the Advisory Director.
- Supports the Student Activities Director.
- Collaborates monthly with the Counseling group.
- Supports the students and faculty with Pastoral Care concerns.
- Advises her advisory students and works with them on community service.
INITIATIVE
Further cultivate the relationships among the Anglican Communion, the National Episcopal Church, and the School.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Re-established a relationship with the Episcopal Diocese of Southeast Florida.
- Welcomed Bishop Eaton and his wife during their visit to campus and spent the day meeting with students and Leadership Team in February 2016. Also welcomed Bishop Frade to visit classes before he retired as Bishop.
- Invited and included local clergy to participate during services on campus.
- Head of School and Chaplain have accepted invitation, by the Diocese, to participate in Visioning Workshop in March 2016.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Chaplain has been appointed by the Bishop to be on an Advisory School Committee to discuss the inclusion of the Schools in the Diocese.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Continued to work with the Episcopal Diocese of Southeast Florida.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:- Chaplain maintains status as a priest in good standing in the Diocese of Southeast Florida.
- Elected the Dean of the South Dade Deanery.
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STRATEGIC PRIORITY #3 - Cultivate Student Engagement
Student life at Palmer Trinity is founded on the values and principles of our founding schools, which had rich traditions as character-building institutions. Comprehensive academic programming, citizenship, physical fitness and well-being, spiritual development, a commitment to service, and the development of the whole person were the common philosophies that were handed down when Palmer School and Trinity Episcopal School joined as Palmer Trinity School in 1991. Today, in order to enhance school spirit, pride, and a true sense of belonging, we must continue to provide opportunities for our students to develop stronger connections and enhance the overall student experience ultimately becoming members of the Palmer Trinity Alumni network.
INITIATIVE
Equip faculty with the tools and training to build and implement an effective and robust advisory program. Focus on the role of the advisor as one who strengthens our sense of community, generates dynamic discourse, fosters self-actualization, and supports students at each stage of educational and personal development.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Included in job description the expectation of all faculty to serve in the Advisor role.
- The Division Heads have reviewed the Advisory program and continue to evaluate best practices for PTS students.
- Appointed Advisory Coordinator for the 2015-2016 school year.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Implemented more formalized Advisory Curriculum.
- Educated faculty on policy and procedure regarding responsibilities of an Advisor.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Appointed an Advisory Coordinator to expand and refine the Advisory program.
- Added a resiliency training component to Advisory/Mosaic.
- Initiated possible student capstone project during senior year, starting in 2018-2019.
INITIATIVE
Manage and cultivate partnerships with local organizations to enhance service-learning initiatives.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Developed school partnerships with local organizations, such as the Deering Estate at Cutler S.E.A. Program, which is coordinated either by the Director of Student Activities or Director of Environmental Stewardship with the purpose of establishing a culture of community living.
- Partnered through our Summer Camp Experience with the following organizations: Metro Traffic Safety Institute, Museum Education Program of Miami, and Tennis Advantage of Miami, to name a few.
- Enhanced strategic partnerships through the work of the Associate Head of Communications and Strategic Partnerships and the Director of Auxiliary Programs.
Increase the presence and active participation of administrators and faculty in student activities in the arts, athletics, clubs, and service opportunities.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Established a full-time position of Director of Student Activities to increase school spirit and faculty and staff support in overall activities and events.
- Strengthened faculty and staff involvement as Advisors in Clubs this year.
- Completed first year of training workshop for advisors; over 60 faculty and staff in attendance.
- Added the Acceptable Use Protocol (AUP) and established a committee to review all requests.
- Added community service activities and more off-site clubs, i.e. Big Buddies, Little Buddies (BBLB), Chapman Partnership, Debate Club, Mathletes.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Implemented a Spirit Committee under the umbrella of the PTPA. This Committee works closely with the Director of Students Activities and the Athletics Department to provide support and assist in fostering and promoting spirit among the entire PTS Committee.
- Established new tradition for entire school community to gather around the peace tree on the afternoon before Thanksgiving.
- Promoted the Little Buddies Club (BBLB) to work with a local school under our combined auspices.
- Established student Round Square.
- All School Convocation opportunities allowing for entire school to come together more often in 2016-2017 through our speaker series.
INITIATIVE
Enhance opportunities for Middle School and Upper School collaboration focusing on internships, mentorship, service learning platforms, and academic learning.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Appointed Director of Auxiliary Programs, in October 2016, to work with Director of Student Activities to coordinate this effort.
- Established new internship program, "Pathways", for rising seniors and Alumni.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:- Initiated Project USE (Upper School Experience) for our 8th-grade students to gain a better understanding of upper school experience.
- Developed a plan to pilot “late start” mornings as a means of professional development between middle and upper school departments and faculty.
Strengthen and encourage an active alumni community that ensures and celebrates lifelong connections among students, faculty, and the School.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Strengthened Alumni relations through networking opportunities including the Falcon Forum (an Alumni Speaker Series), increased regional events (including Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York, and Boston, Jacksonville, London, and an upcoming visit to Washington, D.C.), and Legacy Breakfast (which celebrates Alumni who are also current parents at PTS) in fall 2015.
- Instituted monthly Alumni coffees on campus.
- Added a part-time Alumni Ambassador, as well as increased Alumni Board meetings to five times a year. Added a monthly Alumni newsletter, increased social media engagement, and Summer Social Events.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Created a new tradition with a special Alumni Memorial Chapel honoring Alumni who have passed away. Chapel attended by Alumni, Alumni families and members of the PTS community.
- Strengthened Alumni relations through networking opportunities including increased regional events (including San Francisco and New Orleans).
- Established education program for seniors to learn about the importance of becoming alumni, and what they can expect in the future.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:- Incorporated a monthly alumni spotlight in the e-news.
- Increased social media presences through frequent posting on relevant alumni-related news.
- Launched the use of a mobile cause texting service to communicate with alumni
- Establish relationships with current senior class through the advisory program, the Students Alumni Association activities, and through senior exit interviews.
- Utilize a personalized cultivation strategy through athletics—identify alumni athletes in results plus and invite them to play their sport at the “Alumni Games.”
- Cultivate young alumni through the Care Package program and the implementation of "College Day."
- Establish the framework for and launch an Alumni Mentoring Program which includes a series of guest speakers and summer internship opportunities for current students and young alumni.
- Revamp Alumni Reunions by hosting a large reunion for all classes rather than multiple small reunions.
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STRATEGIC PRIORITY #4 - Optimize Our Campus for 21st Century Learning
With the recent approval of our Master Site Plan, Palmer Trinity can update and modernize the current campus, and as the School raises funds, build new facilities on the School’s South Campus. This work will ensure that the School’s physical spaces optimally support mission and programs. Our facilities will enhance our efforts to maximize interdisciplinary collaboration among departments and divisions while energizing and showcasing the spirit of innovation. The campus will also demonstrate our commitment to sustainability and energy conservation, functioning as laboratories that help us educate our students to be prudent stewards of the global ecosystem.
INITIATIVE
Finalize the process to secure a $10M loan for construction and campus-wide improvements, which will allow us to complete the infrastructure, on-site and off-site roadway improvements, and athletic fields on the 33-acre South Campus.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Secured and received $10M IDA tax-exempt bond.
- Began infrastructure and campus-wide improvements on South Campus, and are currently tracking ahead of schedule.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Completed South Campus infrastructure on time and on budget.
- Completed Old Cutler roadway improvements.
- Completed SW 184th Street roadway improvements.
- Plan to open SW 184th Street to Vehicular traffic in February 2017.
INITIATIVE
Build new facilities, and update existing facilities which will support the School. As enrollment grows, classrooms must be a priority to provide additional educational space for faculty and students.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Created, designed, and constructed a new STEM Lab, three new classrooms, updated faculty office space, and renovate library as of Summer, 2015.
- Remodeled gymnasium floor and bleachers in Summer 2015.
- Renovated Development Office and Campus Store (uniforms outsourced to free up classroom space) in Summer 2015.
- Completed new Medical Clinic, renovated Middle School Office space and ceramics studio, and redesigned food service area in MDR in December 2015.
- Improved grading on existing fields and planted new grass. Updated and improved athletic and fan experience on existing fields (north campus), promoting the Palmer Trinity brand.
- Updated landscape and hardscape features around north campus fields.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Completed three prototypical classrooms of the future in Summer 2016.
- Updated theater with thoughtful renovation in Summer 2016.
- Upgrades to Fire alarm system, PA system, and fiber optics system completed in Fall of 2016.
- Completed new lightning protection system in Summer of 2016.
- Selected Duany, Plater-Zyberk (architects) for the design of the classroom building, student center/dining hall and aquatics center. Schematic Design in progress.
- Pre-construction in progress on Main Athletic Field. Anticipated completion in Summer of 2017.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- New North and South Welcome Centers (guard houses) completed and dedicated in February 2017. South entrance opened to traffic from SW 184th Street.
- Main Athletic Track and Field completed and dedicated October 2017
- Classroom building under construction to be completed by June 2018. “Groundbreaking Ceremony” took place in January 2018.
- Six new tennis courts on south campus completed and ready to play in January 2018.
- Three new athletic practice fields on south campus to be completed by April 2018.
- Student Center and Dining Hall design in progress.
- Chapel design in progress.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:- Completed new Classroom Building.
- Completed three new Innovation Labs in the Middle School, Upper School, and Falcon’s Nest Garage.
- Installed Middle School Building classrooms with renovated and new furniture.
- Finalized three new athletic practice fields.
- Prepared new outdoor dining and gathering spaces.
- Constructing new athletics field house under construction and ready by summer 2019.
- Developed Student Center and Dining Hall architectural designs.
INITIATIVE
Honor the natural environment we teach and learn in, and continue to enhance the existing 22-acre north campus with native trees that will provide a fertile landscape for all migratory birds.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Established new annual maintenance program for landscaping of 22 acres.
- Developed curriculum on flora and fauna in conjunction with Fairchild Tropical Gardens.
- Increased budget for overall sustainability and landscaping.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Developed and implemented maintenance and grounds keeping program for the South Campus. Integrated with program for the North Campus.
- Implemented TOK semester course using the South Campus as a case study.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Designed and printed “Trees of Palmer Trinity School” in February 2018 with the support of Dr. Leo Llinas and Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:- Solar power will be integrated into the new athletics field house with a goal of being a net zero facility.
- Electric vehicle charging stations will be built as part of the new athletics field house.
- New innovation lab at Falcon’s Nest will focus on producing a solar powered vehicle.
INITIATIVE
Consistent with our mission as an Episcopal School, the building of a chapel will be at the heart of our campus both physically and spiritually.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Visited Episcopal Schools with chapel buildings including: St. Andrew’s, Boca Raton, St. Thomas Episcopal School, Miami, St. Stephen’s Episcopal School, Miami, St. Philip’s Episcopal School, Miami, and St. Christopher’s School, Key Biscayne, Florida. Note: More visits are planned for the future.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Selected designer/architect, Jorge Hernandez, for the design of chapel.
Schematic Design in progress. - Hosted design charrette in November 2016 with PTS community stakeholders regarding the chapel design.
- Hosted second design meeting with faculty/staff in January 2017.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:- Chapel groundbreaking November 2018 and permitting in progress.
- Anticipated completion of Chapel in summer 2020.
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STRATEGIC PRIORITY #5 - Global Citizenship at PTS
The rapid mingling of cultures, the complexities of enormous changes across nations, the unforeseen advantages and problems that arise out of the new global economy and the clash of cultures and groups, and the plight of the world’s poor are but a few of the conditions that make up the state of our world today. We seek to prepare our students to take their place as global citizens in the dynamic and challenging times they live in now and will encounter tomorrow. In preparation, Palmer Trinity School is a founding member of the Global Education Benchmark Group (GEBG), a national institution of independent schools that have leading global programs and benchmark standards of learning, both academic and experiential.
INITIATIVE
Develop and coordinate a structured program by integrating quality global content in curricula across divisions. Use specific benchmarks, at all grade levels, to continue to foster global citizenship that offers Margaret Mead’s “Habits of Mind and Habits of Heart”, encompassing our fellow human beings and our common earth as community.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Established overall global commitment at Palmer Trinity School.
- Completed curriculum component to include global programming.
- Hosted the 3rd Annual Global Education Benchmark Group (GEBG) Conference at Palmer Trinity School, which brought over two hundred global educators from independent schools and organizations around the world to our campus allowing them to share pertinent information regarding, among other things, global citizenship, curriculum, safety, and travel programs.
- Introduced Global Week and increased opportunities for students and faculty to travel more in near future.
- Increased budget to include trips, stipends, due diligence, insurance liability, and workers compensation.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Travel Committee established and continuing to evaluate all global experiences.
INITIATIVE
Showcase PTS’s international attitude and global perspective as an integral component of a world-class secondary education, through travel, both domestic and international, and service learning both at home and across the world.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Applied to the prestigious Round Square program for acceptance.
The Round Square network offers schools a framework for excellence and continuous improvement, along with structured opportunities to collaborate and share experiences with like-minded peers around the world. A site visit of Palmer Trinity School by RS is scheduled for May 2016. - Increased commitment to global education for 6th/7th-grade students.
- Created stipends and professional development dollars to support global attitude on campus.
- Established financial aid availability for specific student travel. Travel grants are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and have been offered to students traveling in 2015-2016.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Accepted as a candidate school to Round Square.
- Traveled to Round Square World Conference in Germany.
- Attended Round Square Regional Meeting at St. Andrews School in Boca Raton.
- Hosted first Round Square Exchange Students from Germany.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Continued to research new travel opportunities for Middle School students.
- Provided opportunity for Middle School student representatives to attend Young Round Square with travel to India and Colombia.
- Hosted a Round Square Regional Conference for fifty Heads of School and RS Representatives.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:- Launched MS Travel Reveal Night:
- Costa Rica Adventure, Biodiversity, and Culture (ABC)
- Europe in War and Peace
- The Fight for Freedom: A Civil Rights Tour of the South
- Growing participation of PTS in Model UN both domestically and internationally.
- Prepared first travel to Guatemala.
- Initiated Training for Travel Leaders (GEBG ‘s Exec. Director Clare Sisisky will do the training for 25 travel leaders in 2019).
- Held a travel meeting with Board Members in December 2018.
INITIATIVE
Strengthen the ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) program with processes and infrastructure to support the students and families it serves, while respecting and encouraging the student’s own language and culture.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Confirmed that all ESOL instructors at PTS have degrees or certification in TESOL.
- Assessed ESOL program in 2016, and added courses to help mainstream students.
- Offered World Religion to the ESOL students for the first time.
- Added advertising of ESOL program more widely.
- Budgeted additional ESOL instructors, training, and certifications.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Continued reading across the curriculum in English.
INITIATIVE
Enhance opportunities for collaborative and reciprocal “sister-school” programs, enrichment programs, and study-away programs for students.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Added a travel program to China in June 2016, to be led by Chinese teacher.
- Joined Global Connections organization in 2015. Palmer Trinity Head of School and Associate Head for Academics traveled to India to initiate and build strategic partnerships with several schools at the 2016 Global Connections Conference, including schools in: India, Romania, and Spain, as well as other nations.
- Added technology to maintain Skype dialogue across Middle School disciplines.
- Increased budgets for global travel and additional partnerships.
- Continued relationships with PTS Signature Programs in Australia, France, and Spain.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Implemented partnership with a school in Zhuhai, China.
- Established partnership with Emerald Heights School in Indore, India.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Established partnership with global schools in Costa Rica and Spain.
- Continued to serve as newly-installed member of three outstanding global networks including Round Square, Global Connections and Global Education Benchmark Group (GEBG).
INITIATIVE
Provide our faculty with opportunities to have professional training lectures, as well as travel and learning that creates a shift in their intellectual and cultural understanding.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Increased opportunities for faculty professional development by creating and implementing a regular speaker series for faculty after school. This includes lecturers from FIU, Vanderbilt University, and PTS Head of School.
- Investigated programs with opportunities for faculty travel: i.e. Chaplain's Diocesan excursion to Israel.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Provided opportunities for our faculty to benchmark their work as presenters at GEBG conference.
- Conducted Faculty and Board Training by “Where There Be Dragons”, at risk mitigation training, October 2016.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Continued to encourage faculty to present at various conferences including the Global Education Benchmark Group (GEBG), CASE/NAIS, ERB, etc.
- Reviewed liability and risk management.
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STRATEGIC PRIORITY #6 - Ensure Our Financial Stability
Today’s independent schools must plan for the future and balance a number of competing needs. Compensation levels must be competitive; tuition levels must be acknowledged as reasonable; the School should be accessible to various national, religious, and socio-economic groups if we are to broaden diversity in all its forms. The academic and co-curricular programs must be engaging and stimulating; facilities and physical plant improvements must be planned and monitored in a constant, consistent fashion; and the School must secure long-term financial stability. Success depends on prudent fiscal management, a commitment to building increased endowment, a strong and stable development program, and the active contribution of every member of the PTS community.
INITIATIVE
Enhance a rolling three to five year operating budget including projections for capital expenditures, debt service, and tuition increases.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Completed and implemented three-year budget rollout completed in 2013.
- Finalized and continue to review ten-year forecast.
- Purchased new, facilities maintenance tracking software, Capital Forecast Direct. Trained staff in tracking and predicting ongoing and future capital expenditures for facilities.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Finalized a ten-year forecast.
- Implemented a zero-based budgeting approach.
- Hosted a budget workshop with Leadership Team, December 2016.
INITIATIVE
Expand the School’s philanthropic fundraising program and programs for parent and alumni engagement as the School prepares to embark on a significant capital campaign.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Hired special events person for fundraising and events coordination.
- Appointed Director of Auxiliary Programs, Director of Parent Relations, and new Director of Development.
- Created additional grandparent events to bring awareness about academics, athletics, and arts programming, as well as school fundraising efforts.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Created a Parent Participation Guide for new families which includes an explanation of the school’s philanthropic program.
- Planned to meet with each new family to explain the school’s philanthropic program.
- Increased the number of Annual Fund Ambassadors.
- Increased number of phonathons to alumni and parents.
- Established an annual Past Board of Trustees event to reconnect them with the School.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018- Sent Alumni care packages to all 2017 alumni at the beginning of the school year.
- Improved relationships with young alumni. This year we had 33 alumni attend College Day.
- Invited all local alumni to attend opening of Main Athletic Field and Homecoming Game October 2017.
- Increased number of alumni at reunion in New York City in October 2017.
- Increased number of alumni as career mentors for seniors.
- Improved communication with alumni through newsletters and social media presence.
INITIATIVE
Redesign summer programs to generate revenue, and continue to explore mission-centered auxiliary revenue streams.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Hired Director of Auxiliary Programs who created Summer Programs, After-School programs, and proposed facility rental opportunities.
- Reviewed and updated budget, revenue stream, and goals.
Explore and identify additional opportunities for greater efficiency, particularly within administrative processes, as well as outright reduction of resource consumption.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Redesigned office spaces, and increased overall paperless communication on campus.
- Improved efficiencies with continued automation of processes/cloud-based solutions (i.e. Magnus, Results+, Blackbaud, etc.)
- Streamlined security, maintenance, and operations teams.
- Inaugural State of the School address to be held by Head of School and CFO in March 2016 with intent to better educate faculty and staff regarding finances and benefits.
- Required meeting of all travel leaders was held in 2015 to share experiences and protocols for future travel.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Improved efficiencies with continued automation of processes/cloud-based solutions.
INITIATIVE
Increase risk mitigation and management to lower the School’s exposure.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Required all adults on PTS campus to participate and receive certification in specific modules of "Safeguarding God's Children", a program that educates the community about how to keep our children safe. This program must be completed by all members of PTS faculty and staff by June 2016.
- Approved and published Travel Leaders Guide, after review by PTS attorney.
- Established bullying hotline.
- Added liability insurance, including money in budget for workman’s comp fund and special "Longshore and Harbor Workers Comp" coverage for all programs that are water-based.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Implemented positive pay and other fraud prevention/mitigation controls such as deployment of new not-for-profit School Visa Credit Cards that have chip technology/filters and alerts.
- Established bullying hotline and installed AngelTrax Camera Surveillance, GeoTracking and wi-fi on the school and athletic buses to better safeguard our community on- and off- campus.
- Signed Agreement with Emergency Management and Operations team to work with Administrators and Faculty on Crisis Management.
INITIATIVE
Establish reserves to accommodate unanticipated expenses, and to grow the School’s endowment.
ACTION AS OF MARCH 2016:- Reached 100% for both Faculty and Staff participation and Board of Trustee participation in Annual Fund for 2015-2016.
- Raised $30K required to cover new experimental programs (S.E.A. Program, Agents of Change, etc.) as well as additional training/support with on-going costs.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2017:- Reached 100% participation for both faculty and staff participation, and Board of Trustee participation for 2016-2017.
- Introduced outstanding opportunity at Give Back Miami Day by reaching $89,000 in 24 hours.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2018:- Reached 100% participation for both faculty and staff participation, and Board of Trustee participation for 2016-2017 for the Annual Fund.
ACTION AS OF JANUARY 2019:- 10% of Capital Campaign money raised is being allocated to the Endowment.
Main Entrance: 8001 SW 184th Street, Miami, FL 33157
Mailing Address: 7900 SW 176th Street, Miami, FL 33157
Mailing Address: 7900 SW 176th Street, Miami, FL 33157
| Main: | 305.251.2230 |
| Admission: | 305.969.4208 |
