Sathvik,
See below general response to parents, students, and staff. Please use them and if you choose to edit, please keep on the same messaging points.
I will send you a separate response for Lara and any other staff who are asking for time to meet with the board.
Parent response
Dear [Parent/Guardian Name],
Thank you for writing and for caring so deeply about your student and the TIDE community. I know this news is unsettling, and I'm sorry for the worry it creates. Please know that no decision has been made to close TIDE Academy. On November 12, the Board asked the Superintendent to bring a clear, transparent process and timeline to the December 10 meeting that shows how families, students, and staff will be informed and heard before any decision is considered.
We also want to honor what makes TIDE special--its small-school community and strong academic and college- and career-readiness experiences (including dual enrollment, CTE, and Nucleus). Considering a process does not diminish that value. At the same time, the District is confronting a structural deficit and the higher per-student costs of very small schools over time, and we have a responsibility to examine how resources are used so all students have strong, sustainable opportunities.
Thank you again for your advocacy and trust. Your voice matters, and we're listening.
Student response
Hi [Student Name],
Thanks for reaching out--and for caring about your school. I know uncertainty is stressful. No decision has been made to close TIDE Academy. On November 12, the Board asked the Superintendent to bring a process and timeline to the December 10 meeting that shows how the District will discuss and consider TIDE's future--and how students, families, and staff can be heard.
We respect what makes TIDE special--its small-school community and programs like dual enrollment, CTE, and Nucleus. Looking at a process doesn't take away from that value. At the same time, the District is facing a structural deficit, which means ongoing costs are rising faster than ongoing revenue (because of things like inflation, enrollment shifts, and limits in funding). Very small schools also tend to cost more per student, which can limit the number of classes and programs over time. That's why we need a careful, student-centered process.
There will be an opportunity in January for students to share input directly with the Superintendent; we'll send details once the date is confirmed.
What to know right now:
- No decision has been made, and school continues as usual.
- You can follow and speak during public comment at the December 10 Board meeting.
Thank you again for your message--your voice matters, and we're listening.
General staff response
Dear [Staff Member Name],
Thank you for writing and for the care you bring to students every day. I recognize how difficult and distracting uncertainty can be, and I appreciate your professionalism through it. No decision has been made to close TIDE Academy. On November 12, the Board directed the Superintendent to bring a transparent process and timeline to the December 10 meeting, outlining how the District will discuss and consider TIDE's future and how staff, students, and families will be informed and involved.
Context matters. The District has been examining its structural deficit and the implications of operating very small schools over time. We also want to acknowledge the value of TIDE's small-school experience and programs; entering a process to study options does not diminish that value. Throughout this, day-to-day school operations continue.
Regarding staffing:
- No staffing decisions have been made as a result of the Nov 12 action.
- If any future proposals could affect staffing, the District will adhere to all applicable collective bargaining agreements and statutory timelines (notice, assignment/transfer, displacement, layoff, etc.) and consult with union leadership.
We are committed to communicating early and clearly as more is known.
C-
