Roll Call: 

Board Members:

Adrienne Mason: Board Chairperson

Sheila Davis: Board Secretary

Tyrone Foster - Board Member 

Nikki Chan - Board Member

Rhianna Johnson - Board Member

Lisa White - Board Member

Ashley Duncan - Board Member

Student Representative:

Samantha Sanchez

Crystal Rauda

School Officials:

Steven Carney: Executive Director & School Leader - RSV

Angie Lundgren: Director of Operations Fellow - RSV

Sandra Yokley: Director of Operations - RSV

Adrienne Lee-Kernell - RSV Assistant School Leader

Guests:

Recommendation: The board approves the minutes of the November 19, 2024 regular board meeting.

Recommendation: The board approves the minutes of the December 7, 2024 special board meeting.

BOARD SECRETARY TO READ PRIOR TO ALL PUBLIC COMMENT:

Our Public Comment period is for members of the public to address the board. Each member of the public may sign up to comment at the meeting and will be allotted three - five minutes. The board will listen, but may not directly respond to any comments. Please do not use specific student, teacher or administrator names in your comments as our meetings are open to the public and public record, and we must adhere to FERPA - Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. As such, if your comment is about a private matter, please contact the board via email, or speak to the board chair privately.

The "Reports, Requests, and Comments by Board Members" section of the board agenda is a platform for members to share updates, solicit requests, or make comments on relevant topics.

(Subject to objections by the board members, the following items will be passed by a single motion to approve all listed actions and resolutions. There will be no discussion on these items unless requested by the board. If discussion is requested, the items will be moved from the Consent agenda and considered separately after the motion has been made and passed to approve the remaining items.)

Purpose:
To approve the following financial documents for November 2024:

1. Payroll and Accounts Payable Certification (Document 1)
2. Payroll Summary (Document 2)
3. Accounts Payable Register (Document 3)

Recommended Action:
Approval of these documents as part of the Board consent agenda. The Board minutes should reflect the language provided on page 3 of the Payroll and Accounts Payable Certification document​.

Attachments:

• Payroll and Accounts Payable Certification
• Payroll Summary
• Accounts Payable Register

Rationale:
These documents provide comprehensive financial oversight for November 2024, ensuring accountability and adherence to fiscal policies.

Payroll Check Summary

Payroll Runs: 11/29

BOARD CERTIFICATION STATEMENT Payments have been audited and certified by the Auditing Officer as required by RCW 42.24.080, and those expense reimbursement claims certified as required by RCW 42.24.090. Those payments have been recorded on a listing which has been made available to the Board.  

As of December 17, 2024, the Board approves payments totaling $61,167.22. The payments are further identified in this document. 

Total Payment by Type:   
Payroll Direct Deposit ($61,167.22) 
Checks #N/A ($0.00) 

Accounts Payable Register 
November 2024 

BOARD CERTIFICATION STATEMENT 
Payments have been audited and certified by the Auditing Officer as required by RCW 42.24.080, and those expense reimbursement claims certified as required by RCW 42.24.090. Those payments have been recorded on a listing which has been made available to the Board.  

As of December 17, 2024, the Board approves payments totaling $70,611.40. The payments are further identified in this document. 

Total Payment by Type:  
Electronic Funds Transfer – Public Checking ($70,611.40) 
Electronic Funds Transfer – Private Savings ($0.00) 
Checks #N/A – ($0.00) 

Non-Accounts-Payable Cash Disbursement Register 
November 2024 

BOARD CERTIFICATION STATEMENT 
Payments have been audited and certified by the Auditing Officer as required by RCW 42.24.080, and those expense reimbursement claims certified as required by RCW 42.24.090. Those payments have been recorded on a listing which has been made available to the Board.  

As of December 17, 2024, the Board approves payments totaling $3,763.34. The payments are further identified in this document. 

Total Payment by Type:  
Electronic Funds Transfer – Public Checking ($3,763.34) 
Electronic Funds Transfer – Private Savings ($0.00)  
Checks #N/A – Private MMA ($0.00) 

Purpose: To review and approve the employment changes as outlined in the November 2024, Employment Report.

Highlights:
 

Resignation of Certificated Personnel:

• Sienna Johnson:
  • Assignment: 0.5 FTE School Counselor
  • Reason: Personal
  • Service Years: 4 months
  • Last Day of Employment: December 20, 2024

Employment of Certificated Personnel:

• No new hires listed.

Resignation of Classified Personnel:

• None reported.

Employment of Classified Personnel:

• None reported.

Recommendation:
The Board approves the employment changes as outlined in the December 2024, Employment Report.

Background:

• A newly updated budget status report incorporates feedback from the prior meeting and introduces a forecast column to project the trending 24-25 budget.
• The finance dashboard now reflects changes in financial health:
  • State Revenue Loss: Significant impact due to lower enrollment (22% variance; $81k loss).
  • Private Revenues: Donations remain below targets, though some improvement may occur later in the fiscal year.
  • Expenditures: Tracking within targets at 21% of the overall budget.

Key Metrics to Review:

1. Enrollment: Current enrollment is 54, down from the budgeted 70, causing a material impact on revenue.
2. Revenue and Expenses:
   • Total revenue year-to-date is $569,633
   • Expenditures remain aligned at 21% of the total budget​.
3. Cash on Hand: Strong at 108 days, meeting operational stability goals.

Documents for Review:

• Budget Status Report: Details November performance with forecast projections​.
• Finance Dashboard: Provides a high-level summary of key financial metrics and variances​.
• Balance Sheet: Presents assets, liabilities, and equity​.

Discussion Points:

1. Mitigation strategies for state revenue shortfall and enrollment impacts.
2. Adjustments to private revenue targets and fundraising strategy.
3. Long-term sustainability considerations given enrollment trends and staffing levels.
4. Any necessary reallocation of budgeted funds (e.g., underutilized accounts).

Next Steps:

• Explore revised enrollment projections and implications for 2025.
• Review financial forecast adjustments for potential Board approval.

The "Reports to the Board" section provides straightforward updates from key areas within Rooted School Vancouver. The board will receive regular reports from (reports this month will be verbal reports):

• Student Representatives:  Detailed report outlined student life at RS-V
• Operations: Overviews of the daily operations, infrastructure, and any logistical matters.
• Executive Director: Comprehensive updates on school-wide initiatives, policies, and overall performance.

Purpose:
To present the findings of the Johns Hopkins School Climate Survey, identify key areas of strength and growth, and discuss actionable next steps to address the challenges identified. This presentation reflects our commitment to fostering a thriving, inclusive school environment for all stakeholders.
 

1. Introduction

Rooted School Vancouver conducted the Johns Hopkins Culture Climate Survey to evaluate our school community's experiences and perceptions. The survey collected responses from students, parents, and staff to assess critical areas such as relationships, safety, engagement, and equity.

2. Key Insights

Strengths:

• Teacher-Student Relationships: High scores from students (4.27), parents (4.65), and staff (4.69) underline the strength of supportive teacher-student connections.
• Clear Expectations: Strong agreement on communication of behavioral and academic standards (4.08).
• Commitment to Excellence: Favorable ratings on high standards and teacher support (4.08 and 4.25).
• Welcoming Environment: Parents rated inclusivity positively (4.29), reflecting a warm and engaging culture.

Areas for Improvement:

• Bullying and Safety: Students (3.63) and staff (2.82) expressed concerns about bullying despite favorable parent safety ratings (4.23).
• Student Engagement: Students rated engagement at 3.36, signaling the need for dynamic, inclusive learning opportunities.
• Peer Relationships: Lower ratings across all stakeholders indicate a need to foster collaboration and respect.
• Equity and Representation: Lack of Black educators and limited language supports for multilingual households highlight areas for targeted equity initiatives.

3. Disparities in the Data

The survey highlighted disparities across demographics:

• Racial Equity: Students of color reported lower perceptions of fairness compared to their peers.
• Language Barriers: Families from non-English-speaking households feel less connected to the school.
• Students with IEPs/504s: Reported lower engagement and inclusion than their peers.

4. Next Steps

1. Staff Collaboration: Dedicated sessions to brainstorm actionable strategies based on survey results.
2. Engaging Families: Transparent communication of findings and opportunities for family input via forums and newsletters.
3. Developing an Action Plan: Prioritizing bullying prevention, peer relationship-building, and equitable engagement with defined goals and accountability.
4. Equity-Focused Initiatives: Recruitment for diverse teaching staff and expanded language supports to reflect the community's demographics.

Action Requested:
The Board is asked to:

1. Review the findings of the JHU Culture Climate Survey and disparities highlighted.
2. Provide input on proposed next steps and areas of focus for the 2024-2025 school year.
3. Collaborate on monitoring progress in addressing the identified areas of improvement.

Purpose:
To review the highlights, performance metrics, and organizational updates outlined in the Fall 2024 Quality School Review (QSR) report. This discussion will focus on academic performance, organizational priorities, and financial trends, ensuring alignment with Rooted School Vancouver's strategic goals.
 

Background:
The Fall 2024 QSR provides an overview of Rooted School Vancouver’s current academic, organizational, and financial standings. It identifies areas of strength and opportunities for improvement as we move forward in the 2024-25 school year.

Key Highlights:

Academic Performance:

• 2023-24 Data:
  • Current academic ratings are under review, with measures including state accountability and geographic comparisons in proficiency and growth.
  • Math intervention programs and curricular improvements like Math Nation are underway.
• Fall 2024 Data Trends:
  • NWEA baseline assessments indicate mixed results, with a 45% median of students performing above the 50th percentile in reading, up from 39% last year.
  • Math data highlights gaps in Algebra I (33rd percentile), with stronger performance in Algebra II (85th percentile).

Organizational Performance:

• Key governance requirements, teacher credentials, and safety protocols are in compliance.
• Notable staffing updates include hiring an Assistant School Leader and additional support roles, with plans to transition leadership for the next academic year.

Financial Viability:

• Current financial health is stable, but enrollment variance (53 FTE vs. target of 70) poses challenges. Recruitment strategies and debt repayment plans are in focus.

Discussion Points:

Academic Priorities:

• Strategies for improving math and reading outcomes, particularly for underperforming cohorts.
• Proposed interventions and progress monitoring tools for the spring term.

Organizational Goals:

• Updates on the school-specific goal to improve student connectedness, measured via survey results in Spring 2025.
• Planning for leadership transitions and operational efficiency improvements.

Financial Strategy:

• Exploring recruitment strategies and budget adjustments to address enrollment gaps.
• Long-term financial planning, including building needs and relocation funding goals.

The "Committee Reports to the Board" section provides straightforward updates from the following Board Appointed Committees:

• Fund Development: Updates on fundraising efforts, grants, and financial support initiatives.
• Finance Committee: Summaries of the school's financial status, budgets, and expenditures.
• Academic Excellence Committee: 

Audit Update

Approval of RSV Board Compliance Dashboard for 2024-2025 November

 Background: The RSV Board Compliance Dashboard for 2024-2025 for October, as required by the Washington State Charter Commission, provides a comprehensive overview of various performance and compliance indicators. This includes academic measures, financial management, governance, and organizational obligations. The dashboard aligns with the requirements of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), particularly concerning charter school operations and accountability.

Proposed Action: The School Board is requested to approve the RSV Board Compliance Dashboard for 2024-2025 November. This approval will ensure continued adherence to state regulations and support effective monitoring of the school's performance and compliance with the Charter School Act as outlined in the RCW.

Purpose:
To form the RSV Growth Committee, composed of Board members, staff, and leadership, tasked with designing a long-term growth strategy for Rooted School Vancouver, including strategic planning for leadership, staffing, and operational expansion.
 

Background:
Rooted School Vancouver is at a pivotal moment of opportunity. A dedicated Growth Committee will address key priorities, such as enrollment, financial sustainability, and leadership transitions, while incorporating perspectives from across the school community. This initiative aims to ensure growth plans reflect Rooted’s values of equity, inclusion, and innovation.

Proposed Committee Structure:

• Board Representatives: 2–3 members to provide oversight and ensure alignment with governance and strategic goals.
• Staff Representatives: Include a teacher and operations team member for insights into daily school functions.
• Leadership Representatives: Executive Director or their designee to connect growth plans to executive priorities.
• Parent/Community Representation (optional): To provide community insights and build broader stakeholder support.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Staffing: Develop a roadmap for hiring and restructuring, including identifying leadership roles and diversifying staff to reflect student demographics.
2. Strategic Growth Planning: Explore enrollment targets, facility needs, and academic program expansion.
3. Funding and Resources: Assess financial needs and recommend fundraising strategies to support growth.
4. Engagement and Communication: Facilitate opportunities for stakeholder input and ensure transparent updates on progress.

Proposed Timeline:

1. January 2024: Formation of the Growth Committee and kickoff meeting.
2. February 2024: Initial stakeholder engagement sessions to gather input.
3. March 2024: Develop a draft growth strategy, focusing on leadership transitions and staffing priorities.
4. April–June 2024: Finalize strategy and present recommendations to the Board.

Discussion Points:

• Confirming committee membership from the Board, staff, and leadership.
• Establishing preliminary goals for the committee’s first 6 months.
• Determining additional stakeholders for engagement.

Proposed Action:
Approve the formation of the RSV Growth Committee, appoint initial members, and establish a timeline for deliverables.

Purpose:
The Board is asked to approve the implementation of the Yondr Program at Rooted School Vancouver to establish a phone-free environment, aiming to improve student engagement, reduce distractions, and enhance academic and behavioral outcomes.

Background:
The Yondr Program has demonstrated success in schools nationwide, including increased academic performance, reduced behavioral incidents, and improved student social interactions.

Supporting Documentation:

1. Yondr Estimate: Outlining the cost and scope of program implementation​.
2. Yondr Program Overview: Details on how the program works, including its logistics and practical implementation in educational settings​.
3. Yondr in Education White Paper: Independent research showing significant improvements in student outcomes after Yondr implementation​.
4. Partner Testimonials: Real-world evidence and case studies from schools implementing Yondr, including reported improvements in engagement, GPA, and discipline​.

Key Highlights from Research:

• Academic Performance: Schools using Yondr saw a 14.9% increase in students earning a “C” grade or higher, with Grades 11–12 experiencing a 38% improvement​.
• Behavioral Outcomes: Behavioral referrals decreased by 43%, with significant reductions in technology misuse and bullying incidents.
• Staff Feedback: Over 75% of teachers reported reduced classroom disruptions and improved academic focus.

Proposed Action:
Approve the implementation of the Yondr Program as a strategic measure to support Rooted School Vancouver’s academic and behavioral goals.

Next Steps:

• Establish implementation timelines.
• Collaborate with staff and leadership to introduce the program to students and families.
• Monitor and report progress at future Board meetings.

Recommendation:
The Board of Directors is asked to approve the Yondr Program implementation as outlined in the supporting materials.

Special Board Session -  OPMA Training

OPMA Training Link: https://account.box.com/login?redirect_url=%2Ffile%2F1717809375732  

Next Board Meeting: January 28, 2025

Motion: The motion was made to adjourn the meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at X:XX PM PST