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Orchard teacher asks board to clarify in‑person options as program’s future is discussed
Summary
An Orchard science teacher urged the board to clarify whether Orchard’s in‑person, small‑group model will continue if part of the program moves into the high school; administration said the board does not typically respond during public comment but will follow up individually.
Lisonbee Elliott, a science teacher at Orchard, told the board March 24 that Orchard serves students who struggle in traditional settings and benefits from in‑person, small‑group seat time. Elliott said she has heard references to moving Orchard services into a wing at the high school and asked whether in‑person options for students would remain available.
Elliott said Orchard’s model — in‑person time for students who do not succeed in typical settings — differs from virtual offerings and is important to the students she serves. Administration said board responses are not standard during public comment but that staff would meet with Elliott afterward to clarify plans and answer questions. The board did not provide a public policy decision during the meeting; staff said future discussions and the board’s April meeting may address Orchard’s status further.
