Sequoia representative outlines program costs and tells board reengagement helps graduation rates

Jennifer Hannon, a Sequoia representative, told the board Sequoia is funded primarily through Student Investment Account (SIA) dollars and several targeted grants. "Sequoia is funded through SIA. It does not draw any general fund dollars," she said, and provided enrollment and revenue estimates that help offset program costs.

Hannon described this year's enrollment of about 84 students and estimated retained‑enrollment revenue approaching $990,000, plus roughly $175,000 from a reengagement opportunity grant and a $100,000 Willamette Health Council grant applied to the building. She said tuition from other districts and community donations further reduce net cost pressures while underscoring that the program remains relatively expensive.

Two recent graduates told the board how Sequoia affected their trajectories. "The support and the flexibility and the connection that you get to build with staff just makes the world of a difference," said Autumn Thompson, who said she moved back to Oregon specifically to attend Sequoia and credited the program for helping her graduate. Wyatt Petty described the smaller environment and staff attention as central to his ability to stay in school and regain credits.

Board members asked about enrollment accounting and staff‑to‑student ratios. Hannon said Sequoia brings additional enrollment dollars to the district but that Sequoia itself is run on SIA funds and targeted grants; she described typical daily attendance patterns and staff composition. The board did not take formal action on the presentation but thanked the students for speaking and recognized the program's role in district graduation outcomes.