Roosevelt, McKinley and Hoover present progress; board approves each school's SIPSA plans

The Redwood City School Board heard school‑by‑school updates on March 11 and unanimously approved the site improvement plans for student achievement (SIPSA) presented by each school.

Roosevelt Elementary principal Tina Mercer described multi‑tiered interventions that helped Roosevelt exit CSI and showed progress across ELA and math, attendance and English learner outcomes. “I’m Tina Mercer. I’m the principal of Roosevelt Elementary School, and I’m excited to share Roosevelt’s progress with you this evening,” Mercer told the board, then cited a 10 percent reduction in chronic absenteeism related to the school’s attendance initiatives and increased English‑learner growth on ELPAC (about 37 percent of students increased at least one ELPAC level; 12 percent reclassified last year).

McKinley’s presenters summarized gains on several metrics but raised deeper concerns. The school reported improved ELA indicators and reduced suspension rates in prior years but said chronic absenteeism remains a major challenge (staff counted about 110 chronically absent McKinley students) and that recent weeks had included an uptick in fights requiring renewed focus on safety and re‑engagement. Staff described outreach strategies (attendance touchpoints, online alternate programs for some students, PBIS and community partnerships) and said more sustained interventions will be needed for middle school students.

Hoover’s presentation emphasized growth in foundational reading and math skills and a notable drop in suspension rates after expanding restorative practices and SEL supports. Presenters highlighted attendance work tied to family supports and the family center, but also flagged safety and transportation concerns — including a recent incident of students struck by cars near walking routes — and urged district cooperation on safe passage and transportation options.

Board action and next steps: Trustees moved and seconded approval of each site’s SIPSA plan (Roosevelt, McKinley, Hoover) and passed the motions by voice vote. The board also approved a consent item selecting the auditor for Measures S and T. Several trustees asked for follow‑up briefings on McKinley’s attendance and safety strategies and on district coordination for transportation safety near Hoover.