The Tacoma School District Board convened on May 8, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including the approval of a contract with Clover Park School District and the establishment of a required action district (RAD) plan for Edna Travis Elementary School.
One of the primary discussions centered around the approval of contract number TSDDash25Dash093, which will facilitate a transitional day school program between Clover Park and Tacoma School Districts. The board unanimously approved the contract, which is set to run from September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2025, with a total funding of $43,109.35 sourced from student services.
Another significant topic was the RAD designation for Edna Travis Elementary School, which has been identified as needing improvement due to persistent low performance. The school was recognized by the state for its efforts in closing opportunity gaps and enhancing student achievement. The RAD plan, which is part of a three-year cycle aimed at school turnaround, was presented by Taj Jensen, the director of Title 1 LAP and Student Support Services. The plan focuses on three key priorities: collaboration, systems development, and accountability, all derived from comprehensive internal and external audits.
The board expressed strong support for the RAD plan, acknowledging the hard work of the school staff and community. The approval allows the district to move forward with the implementation of the plan, which has already received informal approval from the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the Tacoma School District's commitment to innovation and improvement, particularly in supporting schools like Edna Travis Elementary in their journey toward enhanced educational outcomes. The board's decisions reflect a proactive approach to addressing challenges and fostering student success within the district.