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Committee grants three‑year renewal to Alliance School Inc.; review team cites safe climate and mixed academic results
Summary
The committee voted to renew Alliance School Inc.'s instrumentality charter for three years, following a site review that praised the school's climate, mentorship and graduation improvements while noting uneven academic performance.
The Committee on Student Achievement and School Innovation voted to renew the three‑year instrumentality charter contract for Alliance School Inc. (the Alliance School), following a site review that combined positive findings on climate and relationships with concerns about academic performance.
Bridget Schock Anderson, director of contracted school services, summarized the charter review team’s findings: the review team conducted a full‑day visit that included classroom observations and focus groups with students, parents, staff and community partners. The team reported students described Alliance as a safe and welcoming environment and praised the mentorship program and student‑led activities; the school had also improved its four‑year graduation rate.
Why it matters: The review team recognized progress in areas such as math and science growth and graduation outcomes, but concluded that academic performance overall had not fully met contract targets. The team recommended a short‑term renewal based on relationship strength, evidence of some growth and the school’s student‑centered approach, while continuing to require close monitoring of academic results.
Discussion and conditions: Principal Phyllis Smith and staff members testified in support of Alliance, describing the school’s focus on mental health supports and its work with students who have complex needs; staff and visitors highlighted high staff retention and community partnerships. Committee members who participated in the site review said they saw a supportive atmosphere and recommended that enrollment screening and placement of students be reviewed so that the school serves the students for which it is best configured.
Vote: Director Gokul Gandhi moved approval. The roll call recorded Director Ferguson — Aye; Director Gokul Gandhi — Aye; Director Leonard — Aye; Chair Simpson — Aye. The committee approved the three‑year renewal (4–0).
Follow‑up: Administration said it would continue regular oversight, including targeted coaching and monitoring of school improvement plan goals; the charter review team recommended a short‑term renewal so the district can continue close monitoring of academic measures while building on established strengths in student supports and relationships.
Ending: The committee’s recommendation will be forwarded to the full board per the district’s charter renewal process.
