Re:(1 messages)

Hi [REDACTED],

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.

On Nov 14, 2025, at 6:25 PM, [REDACTED] wrote:

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, TIDE Academy Class of 2023