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Board renews Center for Advanced Learning charter, requests negotiation updates
Summary
The Gresham-Barlow School Board voted 6-0 to renew the Center for Advanced Learning (CAL) charter, after an OSBA review found compliance with most contract terms but recommended clarifications on family handbook language and policy posting; the board asked for updates during upcoming contract negotiations.
The Gresham-Barlow School District Board of Directors voted 6-0 on Jan. 8 to renew the charter for the Center for Advanced Learning (CAL). The board approved Motion 50 to renew the public charter school; the motion was made by Holly Riegelmann and seconded by Brenna Puderbaugh and carried with all six members present voting aye.
An OSBA reviewer, Kristen Miles, presented the district's renewal evaluation under ORS 338.065(8)(a), explaining the review covers academic, financial and organizational criteria and compliance with applicable state and federal laws. Miles told the board she "is not an attorney and nothing she says will constitute legal advice" while describing the process and noted that CAL appears to be implementing the material terms of its contract. She recommended several clarifications, including updating posted policies and the family handbook to make clear how families access special education and English Learner services.
CAL representative Jessica Gallagher said the program is in demand and noted growth in students requiring special education and language services; she explained the school is working with the Gresham-Barlow Human Resources team to ensure teachers' licensure. Miles also reported CAL meets near-term financial measures and has cash on hand but is executing a planned strategic spend-down of reserves after investments in safety, LED lighting and AV equipment. Board members asked for periodic updates; after the renewal vote, members requested regular updates on contract negotiations during the 90-day negotiation window outlined by the renewal process.
The vote begins a negotiation period expected to result in a renewed contract; Miles explained that if a new contract is not executed within 90 days the prior contract remains in effect until a new agreement is completed.
