LAYDOWN Tułen Charter School MOU with Kenaitze DRAFT Added: 11-14-2024

REVISED DEED Initial Charter School Application Tułen Charter School Added: 11-14-2024

Administration's Recommendation: Approval of Tułen Charter School

Recommended Action: Approve Tułen Charter School for a 5-year term

Summary of Recommendation:

The Tułen Charter School has undergone an extensive establishment process, meeting all requirements necessary to ensure a sound foundation. Based on thorough review, the following aspects demonstrate the school’s preparedness and alignment with the standards and values of the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District (KPBSD):

Organizational Structure and Administration: The organization and administrative plans have been carefully presented and evaluated. The school has demonstrated a clear and effective structure that supports sound governance and operations, providing a stable and responsive environment for staff, students, and families.
Educational Program and Student Achievement: Tułen Charter School's educational program is uniquely designed to blend traditional curriculum with cultural requirements, fostering academic growth while deeply respecting and incorporating Dena’ina language, culture, and land. This approach is thoughtfully crafted to address and support the diverse interests, strengths, and needs of students, honoring their cultural heritage and grounding their learning in the traditions of the local community.
Professional Development Plan: The school has demonstrated commitment to professional development, including utilizing the Subsistence Week for professional learning. This plan supports educators in understanding and integrating culturally relevant practices into their teaching, ensuring high-quality, culturally sensitive education for all students.
Facilities: Tułen Charter School will utilize the Kenaitze Educational Facility, which provides a suitable, community-centered space for delivering instruction and hosting school activities.
Admissions Requirements and Lottery Process: The school’s admission requirements, including the lottery process, have been reviewed and meet the district’s standards, ensuring an equitable and accessible enrollment procedure.
Fiscal Responsibility and Budgeting: Tułen Charter School has demonstrated fiscal responsibility, presenting a balanced budget developed in collaboration with the KPBSD Finance Department. The budget aligns with projected enrollment and is supported by Intent to Enroll forms, underscoring a strong and sustainable financial outlook.
Transportation Plan: The school has coordinated a transportation plan in partnership with the KPBSD Transportation Department, ensuring safe and reliable access for students.

Contingency Requirement: This recommendation is contingent upon the completion and signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for staffing to be provided by the Kenaitze Tribe. Both the Kenaitze Tribe and the KPBSD are aware of this requirement, which remains to be completed and signed by the appropriate parties.

Background Information:

On October 1, 2024 the Kenaitze Tribe submitted the Tułen Charter School Initial Application.

On October 14, 2024 the Charter School Oversight Committee was presented the Tułen Charter School Application.

On October 21, 2024 the Charter School Oversight Committee reviewed further supporting documents and revisions regarding the Tułen Charter School Application.

On November 4, 2024 the Board of Education held a work session and was presented the Tułen Charter School Application.

The Tułen Charter School Application is presented at this meeting today for approval from the Board.

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