Roaring Brook School Board faces public pressure to address achievement gap

The Roaring Fork School District (RFSD) Board made significant strides towards addressing educational equity during their recent meeting on May 28, 2025. A key decision was the approval of an equity audit aimed at identifying systemic barriers that hinder student success. This audit will focus on critical areas such as student achievement data, course offerings, disciplinary practices, and resource allocation. The board committed to completing the audit by the end of 2024 and utilizing its findings to inform future strategic plans that promote equity and close achievement gaps.

The discussion highlighted the importance of tailoring educational strategies to meet the unique needs of English language learners. Board members emphasized the necessity of using data to assess the effectiveness of current programs and to ensure that all students, particularly those who are newly arrived or still developing their language skills, receive the support they need to succeed academically.

Public comments during the meeting underscored community concerns regarding the achievement gap, particularly affecting Latino students. Speakers from the organization Voces Unidas expressed frustration over the lack of progress in addressing long-standing issues and called for the development of comprehensive plans to eliminate the achievement gap, enhance parental engagement, and diversify the district's workforce to better reflect its student population.

The board acknowledged the hard work of district staff in navigating financial challenges and implementing strategic initiatives. They reiterated their commitment to holding the superintendent accountable for progress in these areas.

As the RFSD moves forward, the outcomes of the equity audit and the community's push for actionable plans will be crucial in shaping a more equitable educational landscape for all students in the district. The board's willingness to engage with community feedback and adapt their strategies will be essential in addressing the pressing issues highlighted during the meeting.