RISE Committee

Estacada Schools RISE Committee Meeting Minutes
Date: Wednesday, May 4, 2025

Present: Committee Members – Helena Snyder, David Cross, Darrell Andres, Nicole Andrews, Chelsea Mena, Adilene Zerr. Also Present: Superintendent Ryan Carpenter, Communications Director Maggie Kelly, Community Liaison Dani Randall

Welcome & Committee Purpose

Superintendent Carpenter opened the first RISE Committee meeting by outlining the committee’s advisory role to the School Board. The committee will provide community insight on district policies, the budget, and initiatives.

Introductions & Elections

Committee members introduced themselves and shared their connections to the district.

Leadership Elections:

• Chair Appointment: Chelsea Mena volunteered; motion made and seconded by Helena Snyder. Motion carried with a unanimous vote (6–0).
• Vice Chair: Nicole Andrews volunteered; motion made and seconded by Helena Snyder. Motion carried with a unanimous vote (6–0).
• Budget Committee Appointee: David Cross volunteered; motion made and seconded by Helena Snyder. Motion carried with a unanimous vote (6–0).
   

Committee Overview & Expectations

Director of Communications Maggie Kelly provided an overview of the committee’s role and expectations:

• The committee was created in alignment with Senate Bill 732 to better serve historically underserved students.
• Members are expected to attend meetings, request data as needed, and maintain communication with staff.
• Members will serve a 2 year term. The district will provide email addresses and access to internal communication tools.
• Norms include confidentiality, respect, and representing the broader community voice. Robert’s Rules of Order and quorum requirements will be followed.
• Monthly meetings will be held, with the next in June. There will be no meeting in July; the regular schedule resumes in August.
• All meetings are public, streamed, and recorded.
• Committee work will align with the district’s Strategic Plan, focusing on equity and student success.
• Chair Mena will lead future meetings in coordination with district leadership.
   

District Update

Superintendent Carpenter provided a district update covering the following topics:

• Budget
• Staffing and Current Enrollment
• Alternative and College Programs: Overview of Deep Creek Learning Academy, the district's dual enrollment program with Clackamas Community College
• New Staff Recruitment: Paraeducators, new finance and teaching leadership roles, and custodial staff
• New Student Programs: Boys’ volleyball and girls’ flag football
• Strategic Plan: Currently in year 3 of 5
• District Accolades: Top Workplace recognition, clean audits, and a national award for the Superintendent
• Scorecard Highlights: Increases in student achievement, parent satisfaction, employee engagement, and resource allocation
   

Overview of Capacity Concerns and Upcoming School Reconfiguration

• Beginning in Fall 2026: Rivermill Elementary will serve grades K–2, Clackamas River Elementary will serve grades 3–4, the current middle school will serve grades 5–6, The high school will house grades 7–12, with the addition of a separate middle school wing for grades 7–8
•  Enrollment numbers by age group and building were presented

• All buildings are at capacity except Estacada High School
• Projected district maximum enrollment: 2,350 (currently 1,943)
• Chair Mena expressed concerns about the reconfiguration, including impacts on families with multiple children and past bond campaign challenges
• A question was raised regarding whether the district will pursue another bond. There is currently no timeline. Some believe current crowding concerns could generate new support.
• The reconfiguration is recognized as a necessary stopgap solution following bond failures.
• Topics identified for committee input to help guide decisions and represent community values.

 

Upcoming Review Work

• The Student Management Handbook will be reviewed in August. Topics include discipline, procedures, legal compliance, etc. The committee will provide feedback prior to Board adoption.
   

Next Meeting

• Scheduled: June 25
• No July Meeting. Monthly meetings will resume in August

Meeting Adjourned: 7:17 PM

 

Estacada Schools RISE Committee Meeting MinutesEstacada Schools RISE Committee Meeting Minutes
Date: Wednesday, Jun 25, 2025

Present: Committee Members – Helena Snyder, David Cross, Darrell Andrews, Nicole Andrews, Chelsea Mena,Chrystal Hohn, Adilene Zerr. Also Present: Communications Director Maggie Kelly, Community Liaison Dani Randall

Welcome and Opening Remarks

Reintroduction of committee members. 

Discussion on Growth and Capacity Plan

Director of Communications Maggie Kelly presented the reconfiguration decision roadmap timeline and purpose for the 2026–2027 school year.

• Summer: Minor construction; relocation of the art classroom to prepare for future office space.
• Fall: Formation of staff and community committees; focus on logistics (parent pickup, curriculum, etc.).
• Winter–Spring: Staff assignments, building logistics, naming/branding of new grade structures, and playground planning.
• Spring-Summer: Finalization of bell schedules, bus routes, and start times.

Committee discussion regarding growth and capacity plan and future bond attempts 

• Discussed ongoing communications and FAQ 
• Concerns expressed regarding temporary closure of the food pantry due to space constraints. Other options for community support were discussed.
• Committee members expressed desire for liaisons from this advisory group to participate in the planning committee launching in October. The district will follow up at the September meeting to finalize liaison involvement.
• Translation and accessibility of information for non-English-speaking families emphasized.
• Darrell Andrews suggested tour video and in-person open houses will be created to visually show school changes for families.

• Without a bond, all buildings will be at capacity by 2030.
• Discussion of construction excise tax: current contribution is ~$1 per square foot, limited by law.
• Committee provided creative ideas for future campaign efforts, including

• Public awareness campaign: grassroots, relationship-driven, with community volunteers taking responsibility for outreach.
• Leverage public events (football games, back-to-school nights, concerts, Oktoberfest).
• Mentorship programs to build intergenerational relationships between seniors and students.
• Clear, evidence-based messaging around classroom size, student outcomes, and building functionality.
• Town halls and open Q&A forums to allow dialogue, especially around pain points (student separation, pickup logistics, etc.).
• Engaging voters through schools, churches, granges, Moose Lodge—targeting both digital and physical outreach.
• Suggested follow-up: surveying voters to understand opposition and tailoring future bond messaging accordingly.
  
   

Student Health Survey Findings

Director of Communications Maggie Kelly provided an overview of Student Health Survy details and results

• Participation: Survey was voluntary, anonymous, and administered to 11th graders only. Roughly 85% of students self-reported honesty in responses.
• Positive Data:
  • Marijuana & Alcohol Use: Estacada students are near the state average.
  • Bullying Reports: Estacada reported 8%, compared to the state average of 14%.
• Concerning Data:
  • Suicidal ideation: 13% of Estacada students reported considering suicide, above the 11% state average.
  • Student stress/anxiety: High levels reported, aligning with national trends.
  • Low perceptions of inclusivity and belonging.
  • Limited access to health services, likely due to rural constraints.
     

Committee Concerns and Feedback

• Bullying & Reporting Accuracy:
  • Multiple parents questioned the 8% bullying rate, citing personal experiences and underreporting concerns.
  • Emotional safety and stigma likely hinder honest disclosure.
  • Committee members emphasized bullying’s connection to mental health struggles, particularly suicidal ideation.
• Access and Awareness:
  • Not all parents recalled receiving opt-out notifications for the survey.
  • Suggestion: improve parental communication and education about the purpose of the survey and available support resources.
• Root Causes: Disconnection & Isolation
  • Key Insight: A recurring theme from both data and discussion: lack of connection and inclusive community space.
  • Students feel there's “nothing to do” after school in Estacada.
  • Screen addiction and social media usage may reflect emotional disconnection, not engagement
  • Offer more low-cost or free clubs. Create inclusive after-school programs not based on popularity or athletics.
  • Use feedback surveys to ask students directly what kinds of clubs or activities they'd like to see created.
  • Leverage local businesses (e.g., All In SportsAntFarm, Todos Juntos)
  • Provide shuttle buses to community hubs if needed.
  • Recruit community members (not just parents) to volunteer in athletics, academics, and mentoring programs.
  • The committee raised concerns about the cost of sports and limited financial aid awareness.

Administrative Updates

• Regular meetings on the 4th Wednesday of each month. December may be skipped unless urgent.
• School district emails have been created, each member should have received confirmation in their personal email.

Next Meeting: August 27th at 6:00pm

Meeting Adjourned: 7:08 pm

 

Estacada Schools RISE Committee Meeting Minutes
Date: Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Present: Committee Members – Helena Snyder, David Cross, Darrell Andrews, Nicole Andrews, Chelsea Mena,Chrystal Hohn, Adilene Zerr. Also Present: Superintendent Ryan Carpenter, Communications Director Maggie Kelly, Community Liaison Dani Randall

Welcome and Superintendent Presentation

Ryan Carpenter reported a strong start to the school year with an unexpected enrollment increase of 80 students, particularly in third and fourth grades. Kindergarten enrollment is down by 20-30 students. The district is at capacity at Clackamas River and River Mill Elementary Schools, prompting the hiring of an additional teacher. A $2.5 million seismic rehabilitation grant for the high school gym was successfully secured. The district is also overhauling its CTE programs, including a new diesel technician program. The cell phone policy, now in its third day, is showing positive results. The committee discussed the need for better community engagement and the potential for a future bond measure to address facility needs.

Meeting Outline

Enrollment and Class Size Adjustments

• Ryan Carpenter reports a positive start to the school year with an unexpected increase in enrollment by 80 students.
• Growth is particularly noticeable in third and fourth grades, while kindergarten enrollment is down by 20-30 students.
• The largest class sizes are the upcoming freshman class (169 students) and the eighth grade group (171 students).
• River Mill Elementary School is at capacity, leading to the hiring of an additional teacher to manage class sizes.

Seismic Rehabilitation Grant and Gymnasium Upgrades

• Ryan Carpenter discusses the successful acquisition of a $2.5 million grant for seismic rehabilitation of the high school gymnasium.
• The gym, built in the 1960s, was upgraded by adding rebar and concrete to make it more earthquake-resistant.
• The project was completed on time and slightly under budget, with unexpected electrical issues covered by the contingency fund.
• The gym's size was reduced by six inches on each side due to the construction.

Reconfiguration Efforts and High School Career Technical Education (CTE) Programs

• Ryan Carpenter outlines the ongoing reconfiguration efforts, including the relocation of the high school art program to make room for new office area.
• The high school library will be transformed into a middle school commons, and additional classrooms will be created in the boardroom space.
• The district is overhauling its CTE programs, including a new diesel technician program, a machining manufacturing program, and an electrical engineering program.
• The new CTE programs aim to provide students with certifications and hands-on experience, partnering with local industries and community colleges.

Cell Phone Policy and Community Feedback

• Ryan Carpenter introduces the new cell phone policy, which prohibits phones and watches during school hours.
• The policy aims to reduce distractions and increase student engagement, with initial positive feedback from teachers and students.
• Chelsea Mena and David Cross discuss the policy's specifics, including exemptions for medical and safety reasons.
• The committee plans to address parental concerns and provide clear communication about the policy's implementation.

Middle School Sports and Community Engagement

• Chelsea Mena raises concerns about the lack of junior high sports opportunities, particularly basketball.
• Ryan Carpenter explains that middle school sports have been offered since 2016, including volleyball, wrestling, cross country, basketball, and track.
• The district faces challenges in finding suitable opponents for mid-level basketball teams, with some parents expressing frustration over the current setup.
• The committee discusses potential solutions, including reaching out to other communities and improving the leadership of youth basketball programs.

Growth and Capacity Challenges

• Ryan Carpenter addresses the district's capacity issues, particularly at the high school level, which can hold up to 1000 students.
• The district is planning for future growth, including the possibility of building an additional school.
• The committee discusses the impact of the 3/4 grade growth on the reconfiguration plan and the need for long-term solutions.
• The district is in early stages of discussing a bond measure to address facility needs.

Community Involvement and Communication Strategies

• The committee emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the reconfiguration and bond measure processes.
• Maggie Kelly suggests focusing on motivating supportive community members rather than trying to change the minds of hard nos.
• The committee plans to use various communication methods, including Facebook Live, to engage with parents and community members.
• The district is considering creating a FAQ page and videos to provide clear information about the bond measure and its impact.

Bond Measure Planning and Public Perception

• Ryan Carpenter outlines the steps for planning the bond measure, including a long-range facilities assessment and determining the tax impact.
• The committee discusses the challenges of gaining community support, including addressing concerns about property taxes and the value of improved schools.
• Darrell Andrews suggests using visual aids and personal stories to illustrate the need for the bond measure.
• The committee plans to involve community members in the process, including holding public meetings and gathering feedback.

Addressing Parental Concerns and Policy Clarifications

• The committee discusses specific parental concerns about the cell phone policy, including medical and safety exemptions.
• Ryan Carpenter explains the district's approach to handling these concerns on a case-by-case basis.
• The committee plans to provide clear communication about the policy and its implementation, including addressing common questions and misconceptions.
• The district is considering additional measures to support parents, such as using AirTags to track students' locations during school hours.

Future Planning and Committee Formation

• Various committees will be created to address specific issues, including the renaming of EHS Middle School and the execution of middle school and high school PE programs. RISE committee members are encouraged to participate.
• Ryan Carpenter emphasizes the importance of involving RISE committee members in these committees to ensure community input.
• The district is preparing for future growth and capacity challenges, including the potential need for additional schools and facilities.
• The committee plans to continue engaging with the community and addressing their concerns to ensure a successful future for the district.

Estacada Schools RISE Committee Meeting Minutes
Date: Wednesday, September 24, 2025

Present: Committee Members – Helena Snyder, David Cross, Darrell Andrews, Nicole Andrews, Chelsea Mena.. Also Present: Superintendent Ryan Carpenter, Communications Director Maggie Kelly, Community Liaison Dani Randall

Overview 

The RISE committee meeting in September 2025 discussed the updates to the reconfiguration plan for the 2025-2026 school year and cell phone policy implementation. The committee also discussed the role of the RISE committee, emphasizing the need for better community engagement and clearer communication. 

Approval of Minutes

• Chair Mena calls the RISE committee meeting to order and minutes from the previous meeting approved without objections.

Superintendent Update:

 Discussion on School Capacity and Enrollment

• Superintendent Carpenter explained the updates to the reconfiguration plan, outlining the reasoning behind the decision. He highlighted the strong academic gains at the middle school, lower-than-expected new student enrollment, and the challenges of accommodating a large sixth- and seventh-grade class in the high school.
• David Cross asks about the unknown quantity of new families moving into the community and how it affects enrollment projections. Superintendent Carpenter details the use of data from approved subdivisions and population studies to predict future enrollment trends.
• Superintendent Carpenter details the use of data from approved subdivisions and population studies to predict future enrollment trends.
• Nicole Andrews inquires about the middle school's capacity to handle next year's enrollment, and Superintendent Carpenter outlines the challenges and potential solutions.

Cell Phone Policy and Enforcement

• Superintendent Carpenter discusses the cell phone policy and its impact on student behavior, noting a reduction in cell phone violations.

• Survey results shared indicating high levels of confidence among teachers in enforcing the policy equitably.

Youth Sports and Community Support

• Darrell Andrews discusses the lack of middle school sports and the impact on student development.Superintendent Carpenter explains the challenges of funding and support for youth sports programs.
• Helena Snyder and Nicole Andrews discuss the balance between district responsibility and community involvement in youth sports.

Community Engagement and Meeting Purpose

• Maggie Kelly introduces the concept of improvement science and the use of rounding to identify themes and improve the committee's effectiveness.
• Chair Mena suggests that the school district should do more to engage the community and make the committee's purpose clear. Proposes using surveys, listening sessions, and focus groups to gather community feedback.
• Superintendent Carpenter clarifies the committee's charge to focus on underserved and underrepresented students, as per state law.
• Nicole Andrews and Darrell Andrews discuss the importance of having a visible presence at school events and community meetings.

• Committee members discuss members requesting agenda items, and the committee should focus on specific topics.
• Superintendent Carpenter agrees to consider the committee's feedback and make adjustments to better serve the community.
• Agreed on a more collaborative approach to setting the meeting agenda and addressing community concerns.

• Chelsea Mena emphasizes the importance of public engagement and suggests that the meetings should be livestreamed. Maggie Kelly and Ryan Carpenter agree to explore the possibility of livestreaming future meetings to increase public access.
• Maggie Kelly and Ryan Carpenter agree to explore the possibility of livestreaming future meetings to increase public access.

Final Remarks and Next Steps

• Ryan Carpenter reiterates the committee's focus on underserved and underrepresented students and the importance of their input.
• Chelsea Mena and Nicole Andrews express their desire for a more visible and active role in the community.
• The committee agrees to work together to improve the meeting structure and public engagement efforts.

Meeting Adjourned: 7:05 pm

Next Meeting: October 22nd at 6:00pm, Room 36 Estacada High School 

 

Estacada Schools RISE Committee Meeting Minutes
Date: Wednesday, October 22, 2025

Present: Committee Members – Helena Snyder, David Cross, Darrell Andrews, Nicole Andrews, Chelsea Mena. Also Present: Superintendent Ryan Carpenter, Communications Director Maggie Kelly, Community Liaison Dani Randall

Overview 

The RISE Committee discussed the recent walkthrough at a local school, highlighting student engagement, inclusive teaching practices, and the integration of students with disabilities. Chelsea Mena noted the high level of student interaction and the use of PDSA cycles for improvement. The committee also addressed the issue of home-schooled students participating in district programs, raising concerns about capacity and fairness. Additionally, the impact of ICE activities on the school community was discussed, with a focus on supporting affected families and students.

Approval of Minutes

• RISE committee meeting to order and minutes from the September meeting approved without objections.

Walkthrough Observations and District Teaching Strategies

• Chair Mena shares her experience from a walkthrough held on Wednesday, October 8th. Highlighting the teaching style in the district, emphasizing accountability and student engagement, even in elementary school. She explained her observation of integration among students with disabilities and the use of exit tickets for self-reflection.

• Superintendent Carpenter discusses a high-yield instructional strategy and PDSA cycles and success the district has seen since implementation.
• Superintendent Carpenter invites others to join these visits, noting the interest from other school districts in replicating their model. He discusses the inclusivity efforts, the success of the Language for All program, and the effective use of PDSA cycles.

Homeschool Policy Review Update

• Superintendent Carpenter addressed the issue of home-schooled students participating in district programs and classes without being enrolled as full-time students.
• Overview of historical context of the policy and the current challenges of managing limited resources.
• Implications of allowing home-schooled students to choose to participate programs, and the effect on our student population
• All RISE Committee members provided input on revising the policy to ensure fairness and manage capacity issues.

ICE Immigration: Policy and procedures

• Superintendent Carpenter explains the legal requirements for ICE to engage with students or parents, as well as the protocol and guidance provided to district staff for handling such situations.
• Chair Mena, David Cross and others discuss the distress currently being caused by ICE activities, particularly among minority students and their families and school community.
• District Translation Specialist, Leticia Gonzalez, presented on the resources and support that has been provided to affected families, emphasizing the importance of trust and communication.
• Discussion on the importance of addressing racism and hatred within the community, supporting affected students, and importance of accountability for teachers who fail to address racist comments or behaviors.
• Emphasis on continued proactive planning to support students whose families may be affected by ICE activities.
• Superintendent Carpenter acknowledges the need for continued efforts to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all students.

Meeting Adjourned: 7:011 pm

Next Meeting: TBD due to upcoming holiday conflict

 

Estacada Schools RISE Committee Meeting Minutes
Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Present: Committee Members – Helena Snyder, David Cross, Darrell Andrews, Nicole Andrews Chrystal Hohn, Addi Zerr. Also Present: Superintendent Ryan Carpenter, Communications Director Maggie Kelly, Community Liaison Dani Randall

Overview 

The RISE Committee meeting covered several key topics. Superintendent Ryan Carpenter discussed a potential state budget reduction and addressed the statewide underfunding issue caused by inaccurate poverty data, including how this may affect Estacada Schools. The committee also engaged in a productive discussion about racism within the district. Members reviewed recent student survey data about students’ perceptions of the district’s inclusiveness across races and ethnicities, as well as the number of bias incidents reported this year. Ideas for strengthening the district’s response included hosting town hall meetings, creating student-led videos, and enhancing teacher training.

Bettina Boles, the district social worker, introduced herself and outlined her vital role in supporting students and families. She emphasized the importance of community partnerships and early prevention efforts, along with the need for more in-person interactions to help students navigate social and emotional challenges. The committee additionally discussed expanding transition groups to better support students as they move into new school buildings.

Approval of October meeting minutes & agenda review

• Vice Chair Nicole Andrews calls the meeting to order and approves the minutes from the October meeting without corrections.
• November agenda is approved as presented.

Welcome & Introductions by Superintendent Carpenter

• SuperintendentRyan Carpenter provides an update on the upcoming parent-teacher conferences and the importance of parent participation.
• Ryan Carpenter discusses the financial challenges at the state level, including a potential 3% and 5% reduction in funding for all state agencies.
• Carpenter mentions that Estacada School District is in good financial shape but could be affected by state budget cuts.
• Ryan Carpenter explains that an Oregon Department of Education employee uncovered major inaccuracies in the state’s poverty-based school funding system, revealing that districts like Estacada were underfunded while others were overpaid, leaving roughly $290 million unpaid statewide.

Safe Routes to School Program with Community Liaison 

• Community Liaison, Dani Randall,  presents an update on the Safe Routes to School program, a collaboration with the City of Estacada to ensure student safety commuting to and from school
• The city received a grant to improve infrastructure near schools in high-student areas, with Dani emphasizing future growth and community input and Superintendent Carpenter highlighting the city’s work on safe routes and ongoing upgrades to lighting and intersections.

Discussion on Racism with Superintendent Carpenter

• Superintendent Carpenter acknowledges the presence of racism in the school district and the need for community engagement.
• He shares data from the Healthy Teen survey, indicating that approximately 25% of students who took the survey disagree that the school welcomes and respects students of all races and ethnicities.
• Carpenter mentions five specific bias incidents reported this school year and the importance of addressing these issues.
• The committee reviewed the reporting options available for students to report racist incidents, acknowledged that these cases are likely underreported, and examined how students are held accountable and informed about the importance of respectful conduct.
• Addi Zerr highlights the importance of showcasing diversity and celebrating different cultures, using groups such as the Mecha Club as an example.
• The committee discusses the need for community town halls, student videos, and teacher training to improve cultural awareness and support.

Introduction to Bettina Boles, School Social Worker

• Bettina Boles, the district social worker, explains her role in supporting students and families with a wide range of needs. She highlights the importance of community involvement and how local support positively affects student well-being. Boles mentions programs such as Girls Circle and Boys Council, which help students develop communication skills and build connections. The committee discusses ways to strengthen her efforts, including increasing community awareness and encouraging greater participation in school activities.
• Committee discusses upcoming transition with the elementary school reconfiguration.  No longer having feeder schools could help with transition to middle school. Suggestion of transition groups for students moving buildings for the upcoming school year. 
• Nicole Andrews proposes using existing group structures to address racism and strengthen community connections.

• The group discusses how technology reduces face-to-face interaction and contributes to a decline in traditional activities like school dances; Bettina stresses the importance of in-person engagement to build genuine connections and the positive impact that strong community support has on students and families.
• Bettina stresses the value of encouraging students and the community to seek help at the first signs of need. She explains that crisis situations are harder to manage and consume more resources, while early outreach allows for more effective solutions and improved results for all involved.

Meeting Adjourned: 7:49 pm

Next Meeting: December 17th at 6:00 pm

 

Estacada Schools RISE Committee Meeting Minutes
Date: Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Present: Committee Members – Helena Snyder, David Cross, Darrell Andrews, Chelsea Mena, Addi Zerr. Also present: Communications Director Maggie Kelly, Community Liaison Dani Randall

Overview 

The January RISE Committee meeting included updates on the Reconfiguration Committee, set to start in early February, and the Safe Routes to School program, with data collection underway and walking audits planned. Assistant Student Services Director Spencer McEwen shared findings from the District Wellness Report, highlighting improvements in nutrition and physical activity. Recent academic data for student groups was presented and discussed. The committee also addressed the state testing opt-out rate, with suggestions to gather parent feedback, and debated the potential for a new school bond in light of economic challenges and past bond outcomes. The next meeting is scheduled for February 25.

Approval of October meeting minutes & agenda review

• Chair Chelsea Mena confirms the approval of minutes and the agenda, with no requested changes.
• January agenda is approved as presented.
• Director of Communications, Maggie Kelly shared information on the Reconfiguration Committee’s upcoming meetings with the goal to improve parent pickup and drop-off processes for the 2026-2027 school year.

Wellness Committee Presentation

• Assistant Student Services Director, Spencer McLean, presents and explains the District Wellness Report, which is conducted every three years, focusing on school nutrition and physical activity.
• The comprehensive score was 74, with a strength score of 33 for enforceability of nutrition and physical activity.
• Key strengths include smart snacks meeting USDA standards and not offering free lunch to all students.
• Areas for improvement include integrating physical activity throughout the day and collaboration between research and staff.
• Helena Snyder suggests a farm-to-table initiative, where students grow and consume their own food, which is well-received.
• David Cross asks about the financial aspect of free lunch and its availability during breaks, with Dani Randall providing details on community programs.
• Chelsea Mena inquires about recess duration, it is confirmed elementary students get 40 minutes for lunch and recess, with structured recesses.
• Concern with school lunch lines being too long, causing short recess time and limited time to eat. Suggested as an area of improvement. 

Safe Routes to School Program

• Community Liaison, Dani Randall, updates on the Safe Routes to School program, initiated by The City of Estacada with grant funds, focusing on improving student safety traveling to and from school. 
• The program involves collecting data through surveys, performing walking audits to identify areas of concern, meetings with a Task Force to analyze all collected information. 
• Community members are encouraged to participate in the task force and provide feedback on safety issues.
• David Cross offers to provide data on accident locations to help identify areas in need of improvement.

Academic Success Update

• Director of Communications, Maggie Kelly, presents data from the Clackamas Education Service District, showing trends in student performance and areas of concern.
• The data shows improvements in attendance, learning standard proficiency, and high school GPA, but a decline in multilingual learner graduation rates.
• Chelsea Mena suggests more support for multilingual learners, including hiring more bilingual paraeducators and having bilingual volunteers help in class. 
• Language for All program discussed, which supports English language learners, and the importance of hiring bilingual teachers.

State Testing Policy Discussion

• Helena Snyder raises concerns about state testing opt-outs and their impact on funding, suggesting better communication with parents.
• Adi Zerr highlights students' stress caused by state testing, highlighting the need for better support.
•  Recommended adding a section to the opt-out form to gather feedback from parents on why they opted out.
• The discussion emphasizes the importance of test-taking skills and the need for clear communication with parents about the significance of state testing.

School Bond Considerations

• David Cross provides an analysis of school bond success rates, noting the impact of economic disadvantage and political context.
• The conversation highlights the importance of community trust and the need for transparency in how bond funds are used.Challenges of passing a bond in a community with a history of bond failures and the need for a smaller, more focused bond.
• The meeting concludes with a decision to table the bond discussion for the next meeting to gather more information and feedback.

Meeting Adjourned: 7:00 pm

Next Meeting: February 25th 2026 at 6:00 pm

Estacada Schools February RISE Committee Meeting Minutes
Date: Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Present: Committee Members – Helena Snyder, David Cross, Darrell Andrews, Nicole Andrews, Chelsea Mena. Also present: Superintendent Ryan Carpenter, Communications Director Maggie Kelly, Community Liaison Dani Randall

Overview 

The February RISE Committee meeting included updates from several district efforts. Superintendent Ryan Carpenter shared that the district is the only one in Clackamas County experiencing public school enrollment growth, increasing by 1.3% from last year, while nearby districts such as Oregon City saw a 3.3% decline. The committee discussed challenges districts face when passing school bonds, noting that community perception and past outcomes can influence future efforts. Members also reviewed student discipline data showing a 60% reduction in incidents of student to teacher harm over the past three years. Updates from the Parent Pickup Committee highlighted recent changes at River Mill Elementary School that have improved traffic flow and safety during dismissal. The committee also discussed the potential rebranding of school mascots across the district to Rangers to create a more unified identity.

Approval of January meeting minutes & agenda review

• Chair Chelsea Mena confirms the approval of minutes and the agenda, with no requested changes.
• February agenda is approved as presented.

School Bond Discussion and Data Analysis

• Maggie Kelly and David Cross recapped the previous month’s discussion on school bonds and reviewed analysis on bond viability.
• Discussion noted that previous bond attempts failed in part due to community perception of an increased tax burden rather than a clear understanding of the benefits to schools and the community.
• The committee discussed the possibility of pursuing a smaller bond that may be more acceptable to the community, while still emphasizing the need for quality school facilities and strong community support.
• Superintendent Carpenter acknowledged the challenges of building public trust and the impact negative news coverage can have on bond initiatives.
• Maggie Kelly shared insights from a recent bonds and ballots conference, highlighting successful bond efforts in other districts.
• The group discussed strategies to support future bond efforts, including using alumni and community testimonials to help communicate the benefits of school bonds.

Student Discipline Data Review with Superintendent Carpenter

• Superintendent Carpenter provided an update on student discipline data, noting a 60% reduction in incidents of student-to-teacher harm over the past three years.
• Improvements attributed the improvement to the addition of support staff and the refinement of discipline and intervention strategies.
• Discussion on  how discipline data is tracked and managed using OnForce.
• Superintendent Carpenter explained the procedures for documenting and addressing major referrals, including the legal and procedural requirements schools must follow.
• Superintendent Carpenter discussed supporting students with special education needs, including legal limitations on suspensions and the role of school psychologists in developing safety plans.
• Superintendent Carpenter highlighted the district’s ongoing efforts to hire additional special education staff, provide more support to teachers and also emphasized the importance of parent involvement and the need for clear communication and consistent support for students.

Cell Phone Policy Update with Superintendent Carpenter

• Ryan Carpenter and Maggie Kelly discuss the effectiveness of the cell phone policy and the continued need to reinforce. 

Parent Pickup Committee Update

• Maggie Kelly shares feedback from the parent pickup committee and the positive changes implemented at River Mill Elementary.
• Dani Randall provides details on the progress of the Safe Routes to School partnership. 
• Discussion on how we will continue communication and taking parent feedback to make the Reconfiguration changes more effective and efficient.

Meeting Adjourned: 7:00 pm

Next Meeting: March 25th 2026 at 6:00 pm

Estacada Schools April RISE Committee Meeting Minutes
Date: Wednesday, April 22, 2026

Present: Committee Members – Helena Snyder, David Cross, Darrell Andrews, Nicole Andrews, Chelsea Mena, Adi Zerr. Also present: Communications Director Maggie Kelly, Community Liaison Dani Randall

Overview 

The RISE Committee Meeting covered several key points, Chair Chelsea Mena highlighted the upcoming Career Technical Education Night on May 8 and noted a record 89 kindergarten registrations. The parent and student experience surveys showed improvements, with employee scores at 4.16 and parent scores at 4.07. The committee discussed the need for better parent engagement and the potential overhaul of the middle school Outdoor School program due to feedback. The budget discussion revealed a $1.9 million gap for the next school year, emphasizing the need for strategic cuts while maintaining core commitments. 

Approval of February meeting minutes & agenda review

• Chair Chelsea Mena confirms the approval of minutes and the agenda, with no requested changes.
• February agenda is approved as presented.

District Updates 

• Committee Members to attend the Career Technical Education (CTE) Night on May 8th highlighting its importance for students, industry partners, and community members.
• Maggie Kelly provides various school events, including the spring play, graduation, and Kinder Connection, noting the high registration for kindergarten.

Parent and Student Experience Survey

• Maggie Kelly introduces the parent and student experience survey, explaining its importance and the process of creating action plans based on survey results.
• Survey scores are presented, noting improvements in both employee and parent surveys, and discusses the challenges and successes in different areas.
• Nicole Andrews suggests involving parents more in the conversation and feedback process, sharing her personal experience with her child's school.
• Committee members discuss the challenges of addressing low survey scores, particularly in areas like student respect and school engagement.
• Chelsea Mena presents the survey scores, noting improvements in both employee and parent surveys, and discusses the challenges and successes in different areas.
• Nicole Andrews shares positive feedback about a parenting app pilot, suggesting it should be expanded to all families.

Estacada Middle School Outdoor School

• Maggie Kelly introduced the topic of revamping the middle school Outdoor School program due to feedback from parents and students.
• Maggie Kelly and Dani Randall discuss the potential of partnering with local parks and nature camps to improve the program.
• Nicole Andrews emphasizes the importance of overnight trips for students to disconnect from technology and build life skills.
• Challenges of maintaining trust and addressing parental concerns about the program's format and content discussed.

Budget Concerns and Financial Strategy

• Overview of the district's financial situation shared, highlighting the need to address a $1.9 million budget gap for the next school year.
• The district's core commitments explained, including funding the classroom, maintaining safety, and supporting special education and Career Pathways.
• Darrell Andrews and other committee members discuss the importance of transparency and community engagement in addressing financial challenges.
• Nicole Andrews raises concerns about the feasibility of a bond campaign and the need to support school growth without increasing financial strain on families.

Meeting Adjourned: 7:24 pm

Next Meeting: May 27th, 2026 @ 6:00 pm