Dear Members of the School Board,
I read with horror that the board is considering closing TIDE Academy.
I am a proud 2023 graduate. I began high school on Zoom in my bedroom in the fall of 2019. Normally, starting high school without the usual orientation events would be intimidating -- but at TIDE, that was not the case. I was welcomed by teachers and students alike and immediately felt at home.
From there, I blossomed both emotionally and academically.
I want to counter the narrative that TIDE students have "fewer classes, electives, and program options." The opposite is true. The dual enrollment program with Foothill College is extraordinary. I graduated from TIDE with a Foothill certificate in game design(computer science), and Spanish. I was accepted to multiple competitive colleges and chose Cal Poly SLO as my first choice. I entered with sophomore standing and most of my general education requirements completed, which allowed me to pursue two minors -- and perks like parking privileges as a first-year student! All of this was possible because of TIDE and its incredible teachers and programs. I know I would not have had this level of success in a large high school.
Several of my friends continued at Foothill in a transfer program, which was seamless because they were already Foothill students. TIDE prepared us for true college-level work.
Not everyone thrives in a large high school. Not everyone needs a massive sports program or thousands of course options. What students do need is choice -- and a place where they can grow. For many of us, TIDE was that place.
Please keep TIDE Academy open. It is not just a school; it is a pathway to success for students who need something different.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[REDACTED]
TIDE Academy Class of 2023