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Public hearing: Nightingale Charter presents improvement plan as district flags chronic absenteeism
Summary
District staff found Nightingale Charter eligible for a five‑year renewal but noted a 26.7% chronic absenteeism rate; Nightingale leaders described a six‑week intervention cycle and asked for continued oversight rather than punitive action. Public testimony favored renewal.
The board held a public hearing on Nightingale Charter School's renewal petition. District staff reported the charter meets minimum requirements for a five‑year renewal term but recommended focused oversight to address academic growth and a chronic absenteeism rate of roughly 26.7 percent.
District staff noted improvements in English learner progress and a reduction in suspension rates, while urging Nightingale to submit a clear plan for MTSS (multi-tiered system of supports), intervention tracking and instructional pacing.
Nightingale representatives acknowledged the concerns and outlined actions they say will accelerate outcomes: a six‑week instructional pulse for targeted interventions, updated interim assessments and a stronger MTSS process. Principal Mitshuba said internal diagnostics (I-Ready and other local data) show growth in primary grades and that the school intends to focus resources on upper-grade acceleration.
Three public speakers — including classroom teachers and long‑time district staff — urged trustees to renew the charter, describing strong classroom practice, project‑based learning and community stability at Nightingale. Trustee questioning focused on measurable supports the school needs, partnerships to reduce absenteeism, and the transportation costs associated with a dependent charter that draws students from a larger geography.
No final renewal vote is recorded in the transcript segment of this public hearing; the record shows presentations, public comment and trustee questions. The Nightingale team committed to a more detailed execution and monitoring plan to address the district's concerns.
