Crystal Rauda

• Discussed upcoming exhibition on June 11.
• Reported on internships and anonymous student survey feedback.
• Shared that the DEI consultant session is planned with students on belonging and inclusion.

Jessica discussed the roles and responsibilities of the School Board, particularly in relation to charter schools. She explained that charter schools have greater autonomy but are held to higher accountability standards. Jessica also outlined the four entities that make up the system of oversight for charter schools, and emphasized the Board's role as the first level of accountability. She highlighted the importance of monitoring academic data and maintaining open communication with the school community. Jessica also informed the Board about a new requirement for annual training for Charter School Board members and administrative staff, and a new complaint process. Lastly, she encouraged continuous improvement and development, suggesting the establishment of structures for regular board meetings and the creation of a board handbook.
 

Jessica clarified the role and responsibilities of the Board and the Commission, emphasizing that the Board's functions hadn't changed significantly. She introduced the Commission team, including herself as the Executive Director, the Deputy Director, and the Oversight Manager. The Commission is composed of 11 appointed members and is responsible for providing oversight, conducting technical assistance, and evaluating school performance through a performance framework. Jessica also highlighted that the Commission is now required to provide technical assistance to schools, a new requirement implemented by the legislature.

Jessica detailed the intervention process for schools not complying with contracts or the law, which initially involves a letter of inquiry followed by a corrective action plan if violations are found. If non-compliance persists, there could be sanctions such as probation or contract revocation. She also discussed common reasons for intervention including low enrollment, compliance issues, and inadequate special education. Jessica emphasized the importance of timely renewal and compliance, and
 She...

• Emphasized the importance of monitoring academic data and maintaining communication with the school community.
• Introduced new annual training requirements and complaint processes.
• Explained performance frameworks (academic, financial, organizational) and the intervention process.
• Discussed renewal process and the potential for contract amendments.

Rooted discussed the recent committee reports on fund development and finance, proposing to split these functions into separate committees and plan a fundraising event for October. The team also evaluated the current financial status, proposed a budget for the next year, and considered potential budget cuts to optimize the model for students. Further topics included the possibility of creating a social media page for Rooted, the potential of starting a local foundation, and improving mental health support within the school. The conversation ended with a presentation of the preliminary draft of the upcoming budget and plans for further discussions.

Rooted discussed the projected cash flow for 2024 and the implications it has for the upcoming years. They outlined the changes to the school including an enrollment increase, the addition of a school leader of color, and the hiring of two para educators due to an increase in students with individualized education plans. Additionally, ten summer professional development days will be added to the contract for staff, raising questions about sustainability. Rooted also highlighted the need for developing new systems, providing training for new teachers, and potential reductions in the school leader position. They discussed the budget, which includes a rent increase, reduction in tech hardware, and an expected increase in audits. Questions were raised about the returning paras and the need for more support staff, to which Rooted responded that they had budgeted for two additional paras.

Steven Carney provided updates on operations and school-wide initiatives. This section included verbal reports from key areas within Rooted School Vancouver.

Steven Carney and Matt Paolini presented the preliminary draft of the 2024/2025 budget. The presentation included key components, financial projections, and changes from the previous year. Board members discussed the budget, asked questions, and provided feedback.
 

• Key changes: Increased enrollment, addition of assistant school leader, and half-time counselor.
• Financial summary and projected expenses discussed.
• Operational implications and long-term sustainability highlighted.

Adrienne Mason presented a recommended schedule for Board Committee meetings for the upcoming academic year. The board discussed and voted to approve the proposed calendar.

Steven Carney presented the RSV Board Compliance Dashboard for 2023-2024 for March. 

Steven Carney presented the proposed 2024-2025 school calendar for Rooted School Vancouver.

Adrienne Mason presented the proposed schedule for board meetings, workshops, and special events for the 2024-2025 school year.

Adrienne Mason reminded the board of important upcoming dates:

• Next Board Meeting: June 25, 2024
• Student Exhibition: June 11, 2024