cedar annual report, 2013cedar.vg/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/cedar-annual-report...cedar...

2013 ANNUAL REPORT

THE CEDAR

Experience

F i r s tH a n d

Entering the IB Diploma Programme, I was given a massive challenge, and not only did I pass in the end, I passed with a strong score. I feel I have grown in so many ways, not only academically, but personally as well. The IBDP pushed me to do better than I ever thought I could have done, raised my self confidence, showed me the importance of perseverance, and in turn taught me that I have the capacity for success.

- Graham Prevost, Cedar Alumnus, Class of 2013 University of Western Ontario

I like going to Cedar because of the small class sizes and also because they put electives in place, especially Zumba. It really clears my mind and gives me a balanced break from my Diploma Programme studies.

- Erin Anderson, Grade 12 DP Student

I like going to Cedar because we get to go to school with so many students from other countries.

- Pasua Rhoden, Grade 5 Student

On the cover: Cedar students play new saxophones purchased with funds raised at the 2013 Gala Auction.

I like going to Cedar because it’s fun and a happy place to be.

- Sydney Smith, Grade 2 Student

The IB Diploma Programme at Cedar was one of the best educational programmes I have the pleasure of looking back on. It pushed me to analyze and critically think in ways that I may not have otherwise come to appreciate.

- Michael Boyd, Cedar Alumnus, Class of 2010 University of California, Berkeley

CEDAR INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Peace Day and Night of Nations Celebrations

CONTENTS

...................................................................................................Message from the Director 4............................................................................Board of Trustees, 2014........................... 5

.......................................................................................Memorable Moments, 2012-2013 6....................................................................................................What’s New in 2013-2014 7

..........................................................................................................2012-2013 in Pictures 8.................................................................................Alumni Spotlight: Michael Boyd (’10) 10

...........................................................................................Faculty and Student Overview 12........................................................................................................................Test Results 16

............................................................................................Annual Parent Survey Results 18.......................................................................Elective Programme.................................... 19

.............................................................................................................Financial Summary 20

.............................................................................................................2012-2013 Donors 22


Welcome to Cedar’s 2013 Annual Report, highlighting the achievements of the 2012-2013 academic and fiscal year, and the first half of 2013-2014.Global Community

2013 was a record year for Cedar, bringing a 100 percent pass rate for students seeking the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma with scores well above international averages. The year also saw the highest SAT score ever achieved at Cedar, a mark then surpassed later in the year with an even higher score. Such achievement underscores Cedar’s commitment to the global community as we prepare students for the best universities in the world.

Such excellence is further reflected by Cedar’s rise in standing in the IB community. In 2013, Cedar was

selected as a pilot school by the IBO for a new initiative called Approaches to Teaching, evaluating effective teaching practice in the IB Diploma Programme. Cedar’s IB Coordinator was selected by the IBO as an official examiner for two IB courses. Cedar’s Head of Primary and MYP Coordinator have both been selected for the prestigious IB Academy, meaning they will be trained to evaluate other schools for their delivery of the IB programme. In 2014-15, Cedar will introduce the MYP Next Chapter, adding new external assessments for Grade 10, leading to an IB Certificate upon completion of the MYP.

Academic EngagementThis global credibility complements

continued efforts to offer an engaging, relevant programme for our students.

In 2013, we committed to an extended day for secondary students, offering elective courses like band, drama, dance, and culinary arts, a new travel programme, and 33 percent more Spanish language study. And we have done all this while increasing services for Cedar students across the learning spectrum.

Our success is made possible by support from many sources, including many of you reading this report. We invite you to celebrate with us as you peruse these pages and continue the journey with us in the years ahead.

Sincerely,

Scott Crawford, Director

Director Scott Crawford has led Cedar since July 2011. He holds degrees from Columbia, Cornell, and Ohio State universities and headed a PK-12 school in the U.S. Virgin Islands for 7 years prior to joining Cedar.

Message from the Director


Administration – 1002339.1

Mark Forte, partner at Conyers Dill & Pearman, became Chair of Cedar’s Board of Trustees in 2012.

Board of Trustees, 2014

Barbara O’Neal Vice-Chair

Peter Reichenstein Acting Treasurer

Arabella di Iorio Secretary

Emma Baker Geoffrey Brooks

Julia Dawson Richard Georges Grant Green Audley Maduro

A Word from the Chair to the Cedar Community Dear Parents, Friends, Faculty and all who pick up this, our second Annual Report.The school year is well under way and the frustrations of an earlier start have been tempered with what is now showing itself to be the benefits of our restructured school day. Already, elective classes are proving both popular and stimulating for our kids. If our kids are not fitter they are noisier with the development of our first school band and orchestra. This is fantastic news to all who seek a broader and bigger school experience.We are not stopping there. International travel courses introduced this year are the first step towards the development of an international exchange programme we are developing for implementation in 2015. Our Solution Studio is the first real attempt to embrace modern teaching methods to inclusive education, and already outside interest is overwhelming. The Board’s objective is clear – we retain and grow by having people choose us as their preferred choice in education, at all ages. We are committed to revamping the way this school is perceived by some, wonting by others so to ensure we are respected by all. We learn our lessons and move forward. This is Cedar International School, and we are proud to report on our progress and to continue to inform as we fulfill our objectives.

Very Sincerely,

Mark Forte, Chair

Walter Reich


IB Diploma SuccessThe graduating class of 2013

proved to be Cedar’s most successful cohort yet in its performance on the rigorous, externally assessed IB Diploma Programme examinations. Eight of the 12 graduates attempted the full IB Diploma, and all 8 earned this coveted and internationally respected diploma.

This 100 percent pass rate exceeds the worldwide pass rate for students attempting the IB Diploma, which stands at 80 percent. Even more impressively, Cedar students achieved an average total score of 31.5, well above the worldwide average of 29.8.

For perspective, of the 149 schools in the UK offering the IB Diploma Programme--many of which are highly selective institutions only accepting high achieving students-- Cedar would rank in the top quarter. An exceptional feat for an inclusive school on a small island in the Caribbean!

VI Culture WeekIn November 2012, Cedar served

as a host site for VI Culture Week. Students from three public primary schools joined Cedar students at our Kingstown campus to hear St. Thomas student fungi band, “Flambo Combo,” perform. Students and teachers had great fun dancing together, and the campus looked festive due to a door decorating competition honoring important figures from VI history.

Travel ExperiencesCedar hosted four international

travel experiences during the school year. 5th graders experienced their annual camping excursion to St. John. 9th graders visited Puerto Rico, and 10th graders visited New York City. A multi-age trip was also offered, taking students in grades 6, 7, 8 and 9 to Texas for a technology-themed experience, visiting sites such as NASA and Dell Laboratories. Cedar’s travel programme is being expanded for 2013-14.

Night of NationsIn April 2013, Cedar hosted a very

successful Night of Nations, a multicultural event exhibiting food, music, and dance from various cultures represented in the BVI. The event, organised by parent Jeannette Forte, was attended by more than 400 people and featured food and performances by the St. George’s Steel Pan band, the Filipino Community, and many other cultural representatives in both the Cedar and wider BVI community.

Purchase of New LandIn the spring of 2013, Cedar made

its first new land acquisition since acquiring its current Kingstown campus in 1998. The new land, located nearly adjacent to the current campus, adds an acre of flat land as well as precious waterfront access to our campus. Discussions are now underway to determine appropriate plans and timelines for development of the new land.

Memorable Moments, 2012-2013

Swimming on the Grade 5 camping trip to St. John Night of Nations Organiser Jeannette Forte


What’s New in 2013-2014?

Solution StudioAfter a year of evaluating its

programmes for serving students with learning differences, Cedar has launched its new Solution Studio, a unit which promotes inclusivity across campus and provides support for teachers, families, and students. Staffed by a team of Special Education professionals and teachers, the programme serves students across the learning spectrum, and includes the school’s first Gifted and Talented programme, called the Island Inquirers programme.

Extended DayThe school day has been

extended by 45 minutes for secondary students, making it a full 7-hour day. The additional time has been used to expand the curriculum, adding 33 percent more Spanish instruction to emphasize second-language acquisition, a structured university advising course of study, supervised study halls to improve student organisation and a popular multi-age

elective programme, allowing students in grades 6-12 to choose between new courses such as Band, Fitness, Culinary Arts, Drama, Dance, and VI History and Culture.

The second semester will also see the introduction of a new Travel and Experiential Education programme, featuring travel courses to Ecuador, NASA Space Camp, the Dominican Republic, and the American Southwest, as well as a BVI History, Culture and Ecology course and a BVI Diving course.

PYP Evaluation As an IB World School, Cedar

undergoes periodic review of its programmes by representatives from the IBO. After performing a year long self-study to assess its delivery of the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Cedar was visited by representatives from the IBO in November 2013. The visit went exceptionally well and reaffirmed the excellent quality of Cedar’s primary school and its authorisation to deliver the PYP.

Performing Arts ExpansionThanks to a successful Gala

Auction in 2012, Cedar was able to purchase resources to expand its performing arts offerings. Instruments for Cedar’s first school band arrived over the summer and nearly 30 students signed up for the Band course, which is being taught as part of the new elective programme. Funds were also made available for an expanded school choir, featuring both primary and secondary students, and drama and dance courses for secondary students.

Scholarship ProgrammeThanks to funds provided by

corporate sponsors, Cedar was able to implement a new scholarship programme to enable top students from the BVI to attend Cedar’s secondary school. This year, five talented students from Elmore Stoutt, St. George’s, and 7th Day Adventist have enrolled at Cedar, thanks to the generosity of Digicel, Maples & Calder, Krys Global, and Nagico.


Clockwise from top left: Cedar students travel to St. Vincent to represent the BVI in squash; Grade 10 students at the Natural History Museum in New York City; Graham Prevost (Grade 12) poses with his mother and his artwork at the DP Art Exhibit; Playing football for Cedar in the BDO football league; Students dance during a Fungi concert held on Cedar’s campus during VI Culture Week; Members of the Class of 2013 at the graduation ceremony.

2012-2013 in Pictures


Clockwise from top left: Cedar students participate in the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Walk; Pre-kindergarten students enjoy learning with the new mobile iPad lab; Cedar students light a Chinese lantern during the Night of Nations International Festival; Primary students don their house t-shirts and cheer during Sports Day; Bradford Green (Grade 3) receives an award from Deputy Governor, Mrs. V. Inez Archibald for his winning poetry submission.


Above: View of University of California, Berkeley’s campus, overlooking San Francisco Bay.

Left: Cedar Alumnus Michael Boyd, Class of 2010, moves into his dorm at University of California, Berkeley in 2013.

Alumni SpotlightMichael Boyd (’10) at University of California, Berkeley

Q. How did your studies at Cedar help prepare you for university?

A. The IB Diploma Programme at Cedar was one of the best educational programmes I have the pleasure of looking back on. It pushed me to analyze and critically think in ways that I may not have otherwise come to appreciate. I have great gratitude to many of my teachers for being involved in the final two year process

and for inspiring me when I wasn't even aware of it. In addition, I've seen the gradual mental shift in friends of mine who've completed the programme, providing the knowledge to understand what it means to be alive. From a less existential viewpoint, it also fulfilled a number of requirements that I would otherwise now be required to complete before I could declare my major at the University of California, Berkeley.

In the Fall of 2013, Cedar Alumnus Michael Boyd began studies at University of California, Berkeley, one of the top 20 universities in the United States. Michael was part of Cedar’s first IB Diploma Programme cohort, graduating in 2010 and earning the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma. Michael attended H. Lavity Stoutt Community College for two years prior to attending Berkeley, obtaining his associates degree in general studies with a concentration in mathematics, an associates degree in biology, and a certificate of achievement in microcomputer studies.


U.S. Colleges & UniversitiesBarry UniversityBates CollegeBoston CollegeBrigham Young University, HawaiiBrigham Young University, UtahBrooklyn CollegeCity University of New YorkColorado Film SchoolDeVry UniversityFlagler CollegeHawaii Pacific UniversityLee UniversityMonroe CollegeRingling School of ArtRoger Williams University

Spellman UniversityTexas A&M UniversityUniversity of AlabamaUniversity of California, BerkeleyUniversity of Central FloridaUniversity of MiamiUniversity of NevadaUniversity of RochesterUniversity of Tampa

U.K. Colleges & UniversitiesAberystwyth UniversityNottingham Trent UniversityPlymouth UniversityUniversity of East LondonUniversity of Kent

University of LeicesterUniversity of ManchesterUniversity of SussexUniversity of SouthamptonUniversity of St. AndrewsUniversity of York

Canadian Colleges & UniversitiesNorthern Lights CollegeRyerson UniversityUniversity of GuelphUniversity of Western Ontario

Other Colleges & UniversitiesBirzeit University (Palestine)H.Lavity Stoutt Comm College (BVI)University of the Netherlands Antilles

We are immensely proud of our graduates who study and work all over the world, including right here in the BVI. Cedar graduates have attended the following colleges and universities. Look for more schools to be added soon!

Q. What role did your IB Diploma play in your acceptance to University of California, Berkeley?

A. It was my IB Diploma results not my SAT results that UCB relied on when considering my application. I'd also like to note my involvement as a member and, for a time, president of Beta Omicron Sigma, HLSCC's chapter of the international honor society, Phi Theta Kappa. We had a lot of major accomplishments in the organization over the course of my time at HLSCC, including winning one regional award and two international awards for a project we submitted about mangroves in the British Virgin Islands.

Q. What are your current studies?

A. My current studies at UCB are intended to follow the requirements to declare the environmental Earth science major for natural sciences and the Cal Teach minor for building teaching skills for students of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Q. What has been the biggest adjustment to moving to Berkeley and what classes challenge you the most?

A. I'm quite enjoying being in Berkeley! There haven't been any big adjustments, only a series of small ones: the time difference with my family and friends in other parts of the world; living with a roommate, especially since I get up much earlier than him and end up doing most of my morning routine in the dark as quietly as possible; walking half a mile to my classes everyday; blurring the line between frugality and stinginess; etc. Each class challenges me in differing ways on a per topic basis. While some topics are straightforward and won't require much extra effort to perform competently under testing conditions, others will, which is when I buckle down and study those things until I'm comfortable with them.

Keep up the impressive work, Michael!

Congratulations to Grade 12 student Bryan Leue for his recent acceptance to Emory University, his top choice. Emory, located in Atlanta, is one of the top 20 universities in the United States according to U.S. News & World Report. Bryan, whose SAT score put him in the top 8 percent of all college-bound students taking the test worldwide, will attend Emory after his graduation from Cedar in 2014. Bryan also serves as the Junior Minister of Tourism for the BVI.


0"

10"

20"

30"

40"

50"

60"

70"

80"

90"

100"

2011" 2012" 2013"

Advanced"Degrees"(all"teachers)"

Previous"IB"Experience"(new"hires)"

Faculty TrendsCedar uses openings each year to hire strategically to better position the school for success. This means bringing in experienced, highly qualified teachers that reflect the global reach of our school. To this end, we have undertaken a strategic demographic shift in recent years to better ensure we are preparing students to achieve in a global community.

0"10"20"30"40"50"60"70"80"90"

100"

2011" 2012" 2013"

USA"

UK/Commonwealth"

Caribbean"

Other"

The percentage of Cedar teachers from the U.S. has decreased from 56% to 39% since 2011. This decrease has been offset by an increase in teachers from the U.K. and various countries of the Commonwealth, as well as an increase in teachers from the Caribbean region (some of which are also in the Commonwealth). Though there is still work to be done in this regard--particularly with increasing Caribbean representation--such shifts better align faculty diversity with the make up of our student body.

Representation by Country of Origin

Experience and Qualifications

While broadening our global reach, we have also increased the experience and credentials of the new teachers we bring in. The percentage of teachers on campus with master’s or advanced degrees continues to rise, and now includes a full 2/3 of our teaching faculty. Even more dramatically, the percentage of new teachers hired with previous IB experience has risen sharply as we aim for ever higher results on the global stage.


Faculty and Staff, 2013-2014Administrative Faculty and Staff

Scott Crawford Director B.S. Cornell University, M.Ed. Ohio State University, M.Ed. Columbia UniversityLaurie Clark Head of Primary B.A. Fort Lewis College, M.Ed. Adams State Univ, M.T.C. Four Corners SchoolZach Pascoe Head of Secondary B.A. Dominican University, M.Ed. Columbia UniversityKaren Fletcher PYP Coordinator B.Ed University of VictoriaLucy Whitfield MYP Coordinator B.Sc University of Nottingham, PGCE University of HuddersfieldJane Fraser DP Coordinator B.S. University of Liverpool, Ph.D. University of AberdeenEmma Donaldson Solution Studio Director B.Ed La Trobe University, E.M.B.A. RMIT UniversityVerney O’Neal HR/Admissions B.S. University of Guyana, M.Sc. Edinburgh Business School, Heriot-Watt Univ.Peter Clark Business/Facilities H.N.D., Bristol School of Business, University of West EnglandBrad Leiphart IT Director B.S. Penn State UniversityVanessa Simon Front Office B.Sc. University of Guyana

FacultyAitken, Lauren Technology B.S., B.F.A. State University of New York, New PaltzAleu, Elisabet Spanish B.A. Universitat Autonoma Barcelona, M.Ed. Universitat de BarcelonaBayles, Lesley Grade 1 B.Ed. King Alfred’s CollegeBos, Kelly Counselor B.A.Sc. University of Guelph, M.S.W Wilfrid Laurier UniversityButcher, Steve Music B.A., Music & Theater, PGCE The Open UniversityCarozzi, Sophie Spanish M.A. University of Glasgow, M.A. University of LondonCazabon-Blok, Marian Spanish B.A. University of Newcastle upon Tyne, B.A. University of the West IndiesCramer, Leslie Art A.A. Phoenix College, Cont. Study at University of the Virgin IslandsCreaney, Tony English B.A. University of Strathclyde, M.A. University of SunderlandDeVilliers, Margie Library B.S. Rhodes University, H.D. University of South AfricaDixon, Sarah Grade 4 B.S. University of FloridaEichert, Zachary Humanities B.A. Univ of California, Los Angeles, M.Ed. Univ of California, Santa BarbaraFrazee, Nick Science B.S. Michigan State UniversityGoni, Sharmine Grade 3 B.A. University of Luton, M.A. University of BefordshireJones, Rhiannon Physical Education B.A. University of North Wales, PGCE University of WalesKinkead, Anna Grade 5 B.A. Univ of Kent, B.S.N. Loyola Univ, M.S. Midwifery Inst of Philadelphia UnivLeiphart, Stacie English / Math / SEN B.A. Alvernia CollegeLockhart, Donald Humanities B.A. University of the West Indies, M.A. University of the West Indies Munro, Rachel Math / Gifted & Talented B.S. Manchester University, PGCE Liverpool Hope UniversityPhillips, Linda College Counselor B.A., M.A. and Ed.S. University of South FloridaPotter, Deirdre Grade 4 B.A. University of Central FloridaRailsback, Maggie Pre-Kindergarten B.A. University of Vermont, M.A. Pacific UniversityReilly, Tim Grade 5 B.A. Purdue University, M.Ed. DePaul UniversityRestell, Gemma Grade 2 B.A. Oxford Brookes UniversityRiegels, Monika Mathematics B.A. Arizona State UniversityRoberts, Sherry Grade 2 B.A. Simon Fraser University, M.A. Stanford UniversitySteinburga, Linda Art B.A. Latvian UniversityTalbot, Nea Grade 4 / Phys Ed B.S. Appalachian State UniversityThompson, Odean Physical Education B.A. Brock University, B.Ed. Nipissing UniversityUrquhart, Shelly Music B.A. Western State College, M.Ed San Francisco State University

Teaching Assistants Maintenance and Cleaning StaffJohn, Susan Rameshar, Sharon Antoine, Jeffrey Sam, AnestaPierre-Louis, Norma Talbot, Majel Davis, Irena Tom, LucindaPrevost, Megan Williams, Sonja Richards, Ethel


Cedar’s Global CommunityCEDAR EMPLOYEES are a diverse group representing 15 countries of origin.

CEDAR STUDENTS come from diverse national and socio-economic backgrounds.

Belonger/BVIslander/ Caribbean

40%Non-Belonger/ Non-Caribbean

60%

National Diversity Socio-Economic Diversity

Students ReceivingTuition Assistance19%

Students Paying Full Tuition

73%

The Cedar Global CommunityCEDAR EMPLOYEES REPRESENT 15 DIFFERENT COUNTRIES OF ORIGIN

CanadaUnited States

Jamaica

St. Vincent

Trinidad

United Kingdom

Latvia

Bangladesh

Spain

South Africa

Australia

British Virgin Islands

Guyana Barbados

St. Kitts & Nevis

Students on Staff Discounts

8%


0"

5"

10"

15"

20"

25"

30"

Pre*K" K"

One"

Two"

Three"Four" Fiv

e" Six"

Seven"

Eight"

Nine"

Ten"

Eleven"

Twelve"

Enrolment SummaryFor the second year in a row, secondary enrolment is up. This is a function of solid retention of students in grades 6-10, as well as recruitment of new students into the school, both of which bode well for the strength of future graduating classes. Primary enrolment, and thus overall school enrolment is slightly down, mostly as a function of smaller class sizes in the youngest years (Pre-K - Gr 1). While retention efforts across all grades will continue, recruitment efforts for 2014 will focus on these youngest years to ensure strong class size as students matriculate through Cedar.

Final Enrolment 2012-13

Opening Enrolment 2013-14

Enrolment

Primary 127

Secondary 105

Total 232

0"

5"

10"

15"

20"

25"

30"

Pre*K" K"

One"

Two"

Three"Four" Fiv

e" Six"

Seven"

Eight"

Nine"

Ten"

Eleven"

Twelve"

Enrolment

Primary 136

Secondary 102

Total 23814

27

19 19

27

1715

17 1820

10 101213

1013 13

25

20 19

27

2118

15 1618

6

11


Stanford Achievement Test Results 2012-2013

IntroductionIn May 2013, Cedar students in Grades 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9

took the Stanford Achievement Tests. This was the third year Cedar has offered the Achievement tests as opposed to the Diagnostic tests. Achievement tests are norm-referenced tests that provide data on student achievement across subject areas.

Interpreting ResultsThe observations below reflect the percentile ranks of Cedar students. Percentile ranks indicate the relative

standing of Cedar students compared to international peers in the same grade who took the test the same year. A percentile rank of 50 denotes average performance for the grade across all participants. Thus, a percentile rank of 50 in Reading would indicate that Cedar students, on average, did as well as or better than 50 percent of the students from other regions in Reading.

ObservationsThe following trends and observations have been noted:

• Of 44 total categories across 5 grade levels tested, Cedar averaged above the 50th percentile in all but one.

• Cedar averaged above the 60th percentile in 33 of the 44 categories, and above the 70th percentile in 24 of the 44 categories.

• Cedar saw an increase over 2012 scores in 28 of the 44 categories.

• In 25 of the 44 categories, Cedar registered its highest average score to date.

• For the third year in a row, Cedar students in all grade levels ranked above the 70th percentile in both Social Studies and Science.

• For the first year, Cedar students in all grades averaged Complete Battery scores (a composite of all subject areas tested) above the 60th percentile.


IB Diploma Programme Results, 2012-2013Introduction

Below is a summary of results for the 2013 cohort of students who attempted the IB Diploma at Cedar, along with comparison data against the 2010 and 2011 cohorts at Cedar and their 2013 peers around the world. This provides a snapshot of how Cedar’s delivery of the IB Diploma Programme is progressing internally as well as how it measures up on the world stage. All information has been compiled from data supplied by the IBO directly to Cedar in the individual score reports for students and the summary report of school statistics.

Highlights for 2013

• Cedar had a 100 percent pass rate, exceeding the 2013 worldwide pass rate of 79 percent.

• Cedar students earned an average total score of 31.5, exceeding the 2013 worldwide average total score of 29.8 as well as the 2010 and 2011 Cedar total scores of 28 and 29.7, respectively.

Comparison of Total Scores and Passing Rates

Number of students attempting the full diplomaCedar 2010: 10 studentsCedar 2011: 3 studentsCedar 2013: 8 students

World 2013: 127,000 students


Annual Parent Survey, June 2013Each June, we conduct an Annual Parent Survey to provide feedback on how parents view their Cedar experience. The survey responses provide valuable insight on how parents perceive Cedar’s strengths and areas for improvement, which is then incorporated into our planning and goals for the following academic year. Below is a summary of the survey results from June 2013. 76 parents responded to the survey.

Overall, how do respondents feel about their experience at Cedar?

In which division do respondents have children enrolled at Cedar?

1. What do respondents feel are Cedar’s strengths?

The survey asks three questions from parents to identify perceptions of Cedar’s current strengths and challenges and what our priorities should be for the years ahead. The most frequently mentioned responses to each question appear below. The number in parentheses denotes the number of parents who mentioned that item in their responses.

Extremely Satisfied

10%

Mostly Satisfied

72%

No Opinion

8%

Mostly Disappointed

8% Extremely Disappointed

2%

Primary

54%Secondary

34%

Both

12%

2. In what areas do respondents feel Cedar most needs to improve?

3. What do respondents believe Cedar’s priorities should be in the coming years?

Teacher quality (17); Sense of community (17), Curriculum and teaching methodology (15); Personalised experience for students (9); Communication and accessibility of staff and administration (8)

Foreign language programme (9); Communication with parents and students (8), Services for students with special education needs (8); Afterschool clubs programme (7); Cost of tuition and fees (7)

Teacher retention (9); Student retention and recruitment (8); Development of new land (8); Addressing rising costs of education (7)

NOTE: We were very pleased to see what parents consider to be Cedar’s strengths. We agree! For more on ways we’re addressing areas identified for improvement, please see the yellow box on p. 19.


Elective Programme in Action!With the introduction of the extended day, secondary students can now further their interests by selecting from a range of elective courses in the areas of performing arts, sport, technology, and trades. Below are pictures of students in action during the 2013-14 academic year: (clockwise from top left) students in band, fitness, dance, and journalism.

Foreign Language: A strong foreign language programme is vital to Cedar’s identity as an international school. First, it is important to understand that we are starting from a strong position: Spanish results on the IB exams were very high, averaging 5.50 at Cedar, more than a half a point above the 2013 worldwide average of 5.01 (out of 7.00).And here is what we are doing to make our foreign language programme even stronger.• Instituted a new programme in Primary for 2013-14 focused on getting students to “use” the language more.• Increased Spanish instruction by 33% for all MYP courses, as a result of the extended day.• Introduced two travel courses to Spanish-speaking countries as part of the new travel programme.• Introduced conversational French, both basic and advanced, as part of the new elective programme.• Are actively exploring introduction of a Spanish exchange programme in the 2015-16 academic year.

For more information on efforts related to:Special Education Needs: Please see p. 7 to read about the new programme that was put in place this academic year. The new programme will continue with a dedicated, full-time coordinator in 2014-15.Student Retention and Recruitment: This is an ongoing challenge for an international school on a small island. New initiatives (electives, travel courses, scholarship programme, etc.) are aimed at addressing this. Continued excellent academic results are also expected to impact. Please see p. 4-7, 10, 11, 16, 17 for more, as well as the photos above!Development of new land: Please see p. 6 and 20. We look forward to involving all stakeholders in the process.Tuition and Fees: Please see p. 20. We are committed to keeping fees as low as possible and to working with families to remove financial barriers. These efforts will continue in earnest.

Response to Items raised in Parent Survey: Your feedback helps make Cedar even stronger!


OverviewCedar retains a stable financial position, though its

bottom line has been adversely affected the past two years, relative to 2011, by several factors.

2011 was an unusually productive year for development, which through a combination of loan forgiveness from Citco, generous donations from two particular benefactors, and an extraordinarily successful auction fueled by excitement over a new classroom building, led to development income in excess of $500,000. In 2012 and 2013, development revenue returned to pre-2011 levels, leaving the school more reliant on tuition and therefore enrolment for overall revenue. Fortunately, enrolment was up over 2011 levels in both 2012 and 2013, helping to offset the drop off in development revenue.

This offset was mitigated, however, by two factors. 2012 and 2013 saw the lowest fee increases (4 percent) for Cedar families in over a decade. These modest increases were coupled with an increase in financial aid allocation over previous years, demonstrating the school’s commitment to reducing the financial burden of attending Cedar for its families.

Finally, a reduction in bad and doubtful debts, thanks to diligent monitoring of accounts receivables, helped offset lower development revenue and increased aid allocations in both 2012 and 2013, with a provision for bad debt being rendered unnecessary altogether in 2013.

Despite these efforts, Cedar did record a small loss in 2013, though the balance sheet remains strong, with a healthy cash position and reserves still up over 2011 levels. The purchase of new land through favourable terms provided by VP Bank also impacted the balance sheet in 2013, representing potential for development in the years ahead.

OutlookWhilst the economic climate in which the school

operates remains challenging, the school’s academic performance has never been stronger, and has been increasingly recognised by the IB global community. Programmatically, the future is bright, though Cedar will always be sensitive to changes in student numbers.

Future efforts must therefore be focused on increasing enrolment, both through retention of existing students and recruitment of new students, and increasing development revenue, both through fundraising and entrepreneurial endeavors. Recent efforts such as the introduction of elective courses and a travel programme in secondary, stronger recruitment efforts for early childhood programmes, and implementation of a successful scholarship programme attracting top students into the upper grades are examples of efforts meant to impact enrolment. Development of the new land represents an opportunity to address this further, while also providing an opportunity to re-envision development strategy.

Thus focused, we continue to shape strategies and look forward to meeting the challenges ahead.

Financial SummaryCedar International School undergoes an annual audit following its fiscal year which runs to August 31. This report offers a summary of the Fiscal Years 2011, 2012, and 2013.

New land (represented by red line) was acquired in 2013, providing space for future expansion of Cedar’s campus.


Financial ReportThese figures are extracted from the 2011, 2012, and 2013 audited accounts, are expressed in US $ 000’s, and are for the school’s fiscal year ended 31st August.

INCOME STATEMENT 2013 2012 2011RevenueTuition Revenues 2934 2823 2754Development Office Activities 162 168 533

Entrance and Application Fees, Clubs, etc. 152 177 151Total Revenues 3247 3168 3438

Operating ExpensesPersonnel Costs 2452 2222 2043

Curriculum Related Expenses 175 181 176Amortisation and Debt Servicing 252 253 238General Operating Expenses 375 383 344

Bad and Doubtful Debts (1) 78 124Total Expenses 3252 3117 2925

Net Income for the Year (5) 51 513

FINANCIAL POSITION 2013 2012 2011Assets

Fixed Assets 2865 2461 2512Current Assets

Receivables 221 254 202 Prepayments 122 116 170 Cash 169 168 113

512 538 485

Total Assets 3377 2999 2997

Liabilities and ReservesLoans Repayable 1366 962 1027

Current Liabilities Bank Overdraft - 104 7

Payables 215 145 157 Fees Paid in Advance 382 369 437Total Current Liabilities 597 618 601

Reserves 1414 1419 1369

Total Liabilities and Reserves 3377 2999 2997


$20,000 and AboveBorrelli Walsh

Conyers Dill & PearmanMaples & Calder

$10,000 to $19,999KrysGlobal

$5,000 to $9,999Cedar PTA

KPMGNagico

Donor Recognition, 2012-2013We gratefully acknowledge those who supported Cedar International School during the fiscal year September 1, 2012 to August 31, 2013. Every effort has been made to ensure that the donor list below is complete and accurate. Regrettably, errors and omissions can occur and the school appreciates all items for correction.

Abrehart, Alastair & ClaireAdamson, Mike & LisaAflair Special Events RentalsAnegada Beach ClubArawak InteriorsArmstrong, ElizabethBananakeetsBancheri, ChristineBay RocBCQSBDOBell, KindaBella BloomsBig Bamboo, AnegadaBitter End Yacht ClubBoynes, OrlanzoThe BuccaneerBVI Football AssociationBVI Yacht ChartersCappricio di MareCaribbean Images ToursCaribbean InsurersCatch-n-KeepCharlie’s RestaurantChef ChetChef MimiChez BambooChilds, Ed & TrudyChilds, SamClarence Thomas Ltd.Clark, LaurieClatworthy, SamanthaClearwaterCoco MayaColourpoint, UKCottreau, Gary and ClareCottreau, Noah

Cramer, LeslieCrawford, Larry and CathyDeMeyer, Dan & ElaineDigicelDixie’s Bar & RestaurantDobbie, AndrewDowning, RobDrake’s TradersDurante, AlexandraDurante, LutaiEldridge, Sue EllynEllis, DanielleEmile’sEveritt, John & ElaineEsser, Christian & ChristineFirth, NoelFish-n-LimeForte, Mark & JeannetteFoxy’sThe GalleryGiorgio’s RestaurantGreen, Grant & RochelleH. Lavity Stoutt Com CollegeHirst, SayulaHog HeavenHorizon Yacht ChartersHunter, Harry & AnneImages Custom FramingIndigo HouseInfinite SolutionsIsland BirdsIsland Department StoreIsland RootsIsland ServicesIslands - Sugar MillJansova, KlaraJTC Group

Kinkead, AnnaKrampf, EmilyKreutzer, Ana-KarinaL & S Jeep RentalsLe Grand CafeLegends NYCLittle SwitzerlandLoose MongooseMad DogMaduro, Audley & Delma Mahogany Jeep RentalsMahogany Run Golf CourseMalcolm, AileenMango Bay ResortMarine DepotMcCleary, BoydMcCleary, EmilyMeyers, EbenThe Mine Shaft CafeMyett’s Restaurant & Sea SpaNewling-Ward, OliviaO’Neal, BarbaraOriginsOsiris TrustPearls VIPeter Island Spa and ResortPettigrew, Dave & CarolinaPoole, MusondaPowerhouse Personal TrainingPrevost, GrahamPringle, MargaretProudly African ImportsPusser’s Marina CayRed Rock Restaurant and BarReich, Dennis & KellyReich, Walter & JulieRichards, Mike

Ribbing, KajsaRiegels, DougRoad Town WholesaleThe Romasco GroupRosewood Little Dix BayScrub Island ResortSensus Health ClubShaw, TrevorSmiths Gore Ltd.Sneed, TomSoiree BVISol y SombraSoleSorrentino, ErikaSpeedy’s FerrySteinburga, LindaSylvestre, AnoukTacon, WilliamTalbot, MajelTalbot, NeaThe Tamarind ClubTattersall, JillThink SimpleThomas, MichaelTicoTop of the BathsTree Limin’ ExtremeVanterpool, DannyVirgin PortraitsVirgin StudiosVoyage ChartersThe Watering HoleWheatley, AngelaThe William ThorntonWood, MikeWood, SimonWooldridge, Richard

IN-KIND CONTRIBUTIONS

FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS

Thanks also to our anonymous donors and to all of our auction attendees.

ApplebyBaker, Emma

Crawford, ScottCrawford, Larry & Cathy

Dawson, JuliaFay, Sofia

Hempel & BoydHobin, KatJudd, Inge

Kalama, Frank & TauKite, Phil & Krista

Lacy, Brian

McConnell, Callum & JennyMylan, Elizabeth

Ormond, Patrick & MaryPotter, Simon

Reiss, NicolletteReich, Dennis & Kelly

Robey, ClaireWall, Jon

Williams, Craig & AvrilWilson, Kristian

Wooldridge, Jaeda

$100 to $999$1000 to $4,999

ARIFA Corporate ServicesCaptiva Global

Clipstone, Tim & AtsukoDigicel

di Iorio, ArabellaGreen, Grant & RochelleMohamed, Shan & PriyaNorth Sound FoundationPricewaterhouse Coopers

Reich, Walter & JulieSchilder, Simon & Whiley, Clare-Louise

VP BankWithers Bergman LLP


Thank You

for your support!

PO Box 3109 Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands VG1110U.S. Mailing Address: PO Box 5000 Cruz Bay, USVI 00831Tel: (284) 340-0113 / (284) 494-5262 Fax: (284) 495-9695

www.cedarschoolbvi.com Email: [email protected]

cedar annual report, 2013cedar.vg/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/cedar-annual-report...cedar...

Documents