The floor was opened for public comment. No public comments were received.

There were no formal board reports, special requests, or comments presented during this portion of the meeting.

The Board reviewed and unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included authorization of financial disbursements, payroll, and the second reading and adoption of updated policy language to further support immigrant students and ensure inclusive practices.

The Board reviewed and unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included authorization of financial disbursements, payroll, and the second reading and adoption of updated policy language to further support immigrant students and ensure inclusive practices.

The Executive Director presented the financial report for the period ending January 31, 2025. Total assets were reported at $2,535,000, reflecting growth in the school’s cash position. Notable updates included a decrease in accounts receivable and accounts payable, resulting in improved liquidity.

Revenue year-to-date totaled $982,000, representing 39% of the annual budget, while expenditures totaled $828,000 (34% of the annual budget). An enrollment-related revenue shortfall of approximately $82,000 was noted. However, the school’s cash position remains strong, with 114 days of cash on hand, exceeding the 60-day threshold.

Concerns were raised regarding delays in federal grant disbursements and the school’s eligibility for CSP funding in the upcoming fiscal year. Continued support from Excellent Schools Washington was acknowledged, along with a pending engagement with a development consultant to assist with fundraising strategy.

Operations Report
The Executive Director reported that the Director of Operations, Sandra, will be concluding her tenure in May. Transition planning is underway, with fellow Angie supporting key operational functions during the transition period.
 

The school recently completed successful hiring processes for a Humanities Teacher and a Student Success Coach, both of whom bring diverse backgrounds and identities reflective of the school’s values.
 

Current student enrollment stands at 53 students, with a target of 70. Enrollment outreach for the 2025–2026 school year has resulted in 35 applications to date. Partnerships with outreach organizations are being utilized to support this work.
 

The school has completed its Civil Rights Data Collection and is in the midst of three audits: program review, financial audit, and the annual State Auditor’s Office (SAO) audit. Compliance measures and internal systems remain robust and aligned with state standards.
 

Executive Director Report

All current staff members have recommitted to the upcoming school year, with one possible exception due to health-related circumstances. The leadership team is emphasizing project-based learning and increasing interdisciplinary collaboration across the curriculum.

The 9th Grade Success Grant is now in implementation, offering targeted academic support and data tracking tools. Additional enrichment opportunities are being developed through partnerships, including with Burgerville and the local Chamber of Commerce.

Efforts are also underway to deepen community engagement, including exploration of a “Running Start” partnership with Clark College.

Student Representative Report

Student Government President Samantha reported that the Spring Fling will be held on March 25, 2025. The event will feature a donation drive for formalwear and refreshments. The new student leadership team has been elected, and the event theme will be “Everything in Bloom,” with Alice in Wonderland-inspired decorations.

The Executive Director presented a summary of winter MAP Growth assessment results in mathematics.

• Algebra I: Student performance improved from the 29th percentile to the 34th percentile.
• Geometry: Performance declined from the previous benchmark, indicating an area of concern.
• Students entering Rooted School are often more than three years behind in mathematics, and the school is working to close these significant gaps.
• The school is implementing enhanced coaching for math instruction, with a dual focus on academic rigor and increasing student engagement.
• Additional supports include professional development, peer learning communities, and after-school tutoring.
• The Board discussed the potential need for extended summer learning programs or weekend enrichment to accelerate academic recovery.

The Executive Director followed with a report on student reading performance based on winter MAP Growth data.

• Student reading performance improved from the 51st percentile to the 52nd percentile.
• The percentage of students in the lowest performance band declined from 14% to 7%, reflecting meaningful growth.
• The school attributes reading gains to strong instructional leadership and cross-curricular literacy supports.
• A highly effective reading instructor continues to drive growth, and the instructional team has already refined curriculum and support strategies in response to recent data.
• Teachers are engaging in continuous improvement practices through professional learning communities and evidence-based reading interventions.

The committee reported progress on several initiatives, including a new partnership with Pacific Northwest Fundraising and Mariposa Marketing. Monthly themed campaigns are in development, as well as preparations for the Give More 24 campaign and increased corporate sponsorship engagement.
 

Board members were invited to participate in a “Who Do You Know?” networking initiative to expand fundraising and outreach capacity.

The next regular meeting of the Board of Directors is scheduled for March 25, 2025. Additional student-led fundraising and community events were briefly discussed.