Zoom link originally posted only had 100 person capacity.  We had to change to add more capacity.  Stayed in original zoom meeting to tell participants and added to the chat.  Agenda was updated with new zoom link.  An email was sent out to RVCS community with the updated link. 

Board chair reviewed Trustee code of conduct

Speakers:
 

• Kristen Hunter (E2 parent)
• Carly Hamilton (staff; LIT special / theater & language specialist)
• Robin Demand (parent)
• Megan (parent/community member; last name not captured in transcript excerpt)
• Lauren Hajar (parent; with spouse Rick)
• Shelby Lee (parent)
• Martha Burke (parent)
• David Javier (parent)
• Tricia O’Leary (RVCS Staff)

Summary:
 

• Leadership and Governance Clarity – Speakers raised questions or concerns regarding leadership structure, decision-making clarity, and board oversight.
• Communication and Transparency – Comments reflected a desire for clearer, more consistent communication from the board and school leadership.
• Staffing and Organizational Changes – Concerns and/or feedback were shared related to current or proposed staffing roles, hiring decisions, or organizational shifts.
• School Culture and Student Experience – Input focused on maintaining a positive, stable environment aligned with the school’s values and mission.
• Community Trust and Engagement – Speakers emphasized the importance of rebuilding or maintaining trust and ensuring ongoing community involvement.
• Comments represented a range of perspectives from the community
• No board deliberation occurred during public comment

• Approval of the April 29 meeting minutes was deferred
• Board identified that public comment was not fully captured in the minutes
• Board discussion indicated that public attendees should be documented directly in the minutes, consistent with prior practice

Required Updates Before Approval

• Incorporate public comment section directly into the minutes
• Add list of public attendees within the minutes

Beth led a Montessori moment focused on recentering the board and broader community on students as the school’s primary priority. She emphasized that “grace and courtesy” are foundational Montessori principles and should guide all interactions among board members, staff, and families, noting that recent tensions and communication dynamics are impacting students’ sense of safety and stability. Beth highlighted that adult behavior—particularly tone, communication, and conflict—directly models behavior for students and influences the overall school culture, and she called for stronger listening, empathy, and understanding across the community. She encouraged reflection and a renewed commitment to modeling respectful, collaborative behavior to ensure a safe and supportive environment in which students can thrive. Multiple members of the board echoed these themes and contributed additional reflections, reinforcing the importance of compassion, self-awareness, and maintaining a student-centered focus in both governance and community interactions.

Meg led a discussion to raise general questions regarding situations that occurred during the prior week, seeking clarity on both what transpired and how those situations were handled. Her questions focused primarily on understanding the appropriate role of the board versus management, particularly in relation to involvement in staff-related matters, and highlighted concern around consistency in process and access to information. Meg noted the tension between limited visibility for the full board and instances where individual board members were involved, and emphasized the need for clearer, more consistent governance practices going forward. The discussion prompted broader board reflection on governance versus management boundaries, transparency, and the importance of ensuring that decision-making processes are well-defined and consistently applied. Additional comments from board members expanded on these themes, including considerations related to timing, communication, and the impact of these situations on students and the broader school community.

Interim Executive Solutions - The Executive Committee provided an update on interim executive leadership planning, noting that efforts are underway to identify and evaluate potential interim solutions to support the school during the current transition period. The committee outlined the general approach to assessing candidates and emphasized the importance of ensuring continuity of leadership, stability for staff and students, and alignment with the school’s operational and governance needs. Discussion highlighted the intent to move thoughtfully through the process while maintaining flexibility and responsiveness to evolving circumstances.

COL Sign-Up - The Executive Committee provided an update regarding COL (Celebration of Learning) sign-up and participation, encouraging continued board engagement in this core Montessori practice. Members emphasized the importance of board presence at COLs as an opportunity to connect directly with students, observe learning in practice, and reinforce the school’s mission and values. The discussion underscored the value of participation in supporting students, building community, and maintaining alignment with the Montessori framework.

A brief update was provided noting that the finance committee has not yet met to approve recent minutes, and that review and approval will occur at an upcoming meeting.

No meeting since last board meeting

An update was provided on a proposed survey intended to capture in-kind donations and parent contributions at the classroom level. The survey is designed to improve visibility into the full scope of resources supporting the school, including volunteer time, materials, and other contributions that are not formally tracked through financial systems. The committee noted that this information will help better understand overall community support, inform future planning and fundraising efforts, and ensure a more complete picture of contributions across the school.

2025–26 Annual IDEA LEA Determinations- An update was provided on the school’s 2025–26 Annual IDEA LEA Determinations, reflecting the state’s review of the school’s performance in supporting students with disabilities under federal IDEA requirements. The determination serves as an important indicator of compliance, program effectiveness, and overall support for special education services, and leadership noted its importance in guiding continued improvement efforts.

ELE Review - An update was shared regarding the English Learner Education (ELE) review process, including ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with state requirements and strengthen support for English learners. The review process is intended to assess program effectiveness, instructional practices, and alignment with regulatory expectations, with a focus on continuous improvement.

Maritime Mixer - The Director highlighted the recent Maritime Mixer as a successful community event, noting strong participation and engagement across families and staff. The event was described as an important opportunity to build community connections and reinforce the school’s culture.

Literacy Night - An update was provided on Literacy Night, which was well attended and supported student learning and family engagement. The event focused on promoting literacy development and provided families with opportunities to engage in their children’s academic experience in a meaningful way.

Staff Updates - The Director provided general staff updates, including ongoing transitions and changes across roles. Emphasis was placed on maintaining continuity and supporting staff during a period of change, while continuing to prioritize student needs and classroom stability.

Facilities / Handyperson Hire - The school has hired a handyperson to support ongoing facilities maintenance and operational needs. This addition is intended to improve responsiveness to maintenance issues and support the overall upkeep of the school environment.

Technology / Network Infrastructure - The Director shared that the school is currently interviewing external technology providers to potentially outsource network infrastructure and security. This effort is aimed at strengthening system reliability, improving cybersecurity posture, and ensuring more consistent technical support.

Easement - An update was provided regarding an easement matter, with leadership continuing to assess requirements and next steps. The item remains under review as part of broader facilities and property considerations.

Pet & Absentee Policy - The Director provided an update on proposed revisions to the pet and absentee policies. Discussion focused on ensuring clarity, consistency, and alignment with student health, safety, and attendance expectations. The policies will continue to be refined prior to final consideration.