Hillary Hampton, RSV Math teacher, presented her concerns about time for direct math instruction. Would like support for a more balanced approach to teaching math. The presenter recommended adopting Open Up Resources, which offers clearer instruction, more practice opportunities, and better alignment with Rooted School’s inclusive and student-centered values .

The presenter offered to share materials with the board. Copies are available upon request or in the public record.

A. Davis (Board Chair) expressed appreciation for the clarity of the math curriculum presentation and emphasized the importance of aligning instructional practices with Rooted School’s core values of inclusion and equity.

A. Duncan raised a question about how the proposed curriculum change would impact students currently receiving interventions and encouraged follow-up with families during the transition.

L. White commended the leadership team for grounding their instructional decisions in research and student data, and emphasized the importance of clear communication with both staff and families.

R. Johnson encouraged the board to continue monitoring academic progress closely and suggested the Governance Committee revisit relevant instructional policy updates in the coming months.

C. Rauda and S. Sanchez shared updates on student life, including positive feedback about new advisory structures and an increased sense of belonging among peers. Students expressed enthusiasm for upcoming internship opportunities and requested more involvement in shaping school events and academic feedback processes. The representative emphasized student interest in more project-based learning and greater representation in curriculum-related decisions, particularly in math and social studies.

The school remains financially stable, with spending aligned to the approved budget and consistent revenue from public sources. No significant variances were reported. The update also marked the beginning of discussions around the 2026–27 budget planning, with a focus on sustaining key programs and staff supports. Board members discussed the importance of linking future financial decisions to projected enrollment trends.

J. Singleton provided an update on his initial months as Executive Director, outlining key observations and priorities from his entry plan. He emphasized building relationships with students, staff, and families, as well as establishing clear communication routines and a culture of continuous improvement. Early priorities include strengthening instructional practices, reviewing organizational structures, and enhancing student supports. The board discussed alignment between the ED’s entry plan and strategic goals, affirming support for his leadership direction.

Finance Committee: The committee is monitoring cash flow closely and beginning discussions on 2026–27 budget planning, with no current concerns raised.

Academic Excellence Committee: A. Duncan noted that the committee had not met since the previous board meeting but plans to reconvene in January. They will focus on evaluating the math curriculum feedback and mid-year assessment data.

Governance Committee: No formal report was given during the meeting. R. Johnson stated that the committee would resume work in early 2026, including policy alignment and board development priorities.

R. Johnson and A. Davis initiated a brief governance discussion focused on upcoming priorities for 2026. Topics included refining the board’s annual calendar, strengthening committee engagement, and ensuring alignment with Rooted School’s strategic goals. The board agreed to revisit governance self-assessment tools in early 2026 and to schedule a board retreat focused on long-term planning and equity-centered governance practices.

J. Singleton provided an update on the Emerging Schools Washington (ESWA) growth application, confirming that the submission process is underway. She outlined Rooted School Vancouver’s intention to expand access and impact in future years, aligning with the organization’s mission and demonstrated early outcomes. The board discussed strategic considerations tied to enrollment capacity, staffing needs, and long-term sustainability. No vote was required at this stage, but members expressed strong support for continued pursuit of the application.

J. Singleton shared updates on efforts to deepen community partnerships and expand post-secondary pathways for students. She highlighted active collaboration with local businesses and higher education institutions to enhance internship placements, dual-credit opportunities, and industry exposure. 

Board members discussed the importance of aligning these partnerships with Rooted’s long-term vision and ensuring equitable access for all students. Future updates will include partnership impact metrics and student participation data.

Retreat January 31st and April 18th