Sacramento Valley Charter School reports enrollment growth and educational improvements

The West Sacramento Board of Education held a significant meeting on June 12, 2025, where the Sacramento Valley Charter School presented its annual update, highlighting both achievements and areas for improvement. Principal Dr. Vendetta Dozier Brown led the presentation, emphasizing the school's unique mission to provide a culturally rich education, including daily instruction in Punjabi language and culture, which is not offered anywhere else in North America.

The charter school reported an enrollment of 371 students from transitional kindergarten through eighth grade, with a diverse demographic that includes a majority of Asian students. Academic performance showed mixed results; while English Language Arts (ELA) scores were above state standards, there was a noted decline in both ELA and math scores, attributed to the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and staff turnover. The school is actively addressing chronic absenteeism, which stands at 15%, by implementing stricter attendance policies and enhancing communication with families.

In response to concerns about staff turnover and school climate, Dr. Dozier Brown has introduced collaborative leadership practices and improved professional development for teachers. This includes providing release time for teachers to observe best practices at other schools and enhancing onboarding processes for new staff. The school is also focusing on improving parent engagement and expanding extracurricular activities, including STEAM programs and field trips.

The meeting also welcomed new principal Katie Rodriguez from Riverbank School, who expressed her commitment to fostering relationships and community engagement to support student success. The board acknowledged the importance of these leadership changes and the ongoing efforts to create a positive and effective learning environment.

As the school year approaches, the Board of Education remains focused on supporting initiatives that enhance educational outcomes and community involvement, ensuring that all students have the resources they need to thrive.