Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Charter School topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Arco Iris charter school presents Spanish-immersion proposal at Tigard-Tualatin public hearing
Summary
Arco Iris (a Spanish-immersion charter operator) presented a K–8 dual-language model, described curriculum and special-education alignment, said its application was submitted May 13 and deemed complete Aug. 11, and requested board authorization to negotiate contracts after tonight's required public hearing.
Arco Iris, a tuition-free Spanish-immersion charter operator, presented its K–8 proposal to the Tigard-Tualatin School District board during a public hearing and asked the board to authorize contract negotiations and next steps.
Jesus Ordielles, introduced as Arco's executive director/principal, told the board the program's mission is to provide a biliterate education built on dual-language practices and Singapore math, and that lower grades receive about 80% of instruction in Spanish. "Our aim tonight is pretty simple, and that is to expand equitable access to a proven dual language Spanish immersion program that complements Tigard Tualatin School District programs," Ordielles said.
Ordielles summarized the application timeline and legal requirements, saying the proposal was submitted May 13 and TTSD deemed the application complete on Aug. 11 in keeping with Oregon Revised Statutes. He told the board the public hearing is required under state law and emphasized that no formal board action would be taken at the meeting; the board must approve or deny the application within 30 calendar days of the public hearing.
On program design, presenters described a model that pairs Singapore math with bilingual HMH reading materials, a multi-tiered system of supports for interventions (tier 1–3), daily small-group supports and use of reading specialists. Ordielles said Arco uses responsive-classroom pedagogy and restorative practices, and indicated willingness to align data cycles and assessments with district systems.
On finances and facilities, Arco said its budget is conservative, projected enrollments are modest, and the organization has diversified revenue plans including grant applications. Presenter material cited a Charter School Growth Fund award "up to $800,000" and noted early community interest (roughly 30 families signed up and about 116 petition signatures). Arco said it would meet occupancy and ADA requirements for chosen facilities and outlined staffing and governance capacity.
A parent who identified herself as Carly Adams (registered as Carly Burkey) spoke in support of Arco, describing positive outcomes for her children in an immersion program and noting her third grader's progress after tier-2 reading interventions.
Next steps outlined by district staff and Arco include continued community engagement, contract negotiations and a potential board discussion on Oct. 6 (with Oct. 20 as a latest action date if needed). The board did not take a vote at this meeting.
