Roosevelt School District 66

The board conducted a public hearing concerning the adoption of the proposed expenditure budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. Key discussions included the allocation of financial resources, adjustments to primary and secondary tax rates, and the impact of one-time funding on district reserves. Additionally, the board held a public hearing regarding the adoption of an Instructional Time Model, which provides flexibility in instructional delivery methods such as remote, project-based, and mastery-based learning while maintaining compliance with state requirements.

The board meeting focused on several key topics, including a nomination for a national school board member award and updates regarding personnel transitions in district leadership. Academic progress was reviewed, with notable improvements in English language arts and mathematics proficiency across multiple grade levels. The district outlined ongoing efforts for targeted school improvements, facility renovations under the Reinventing RSD initiative, and the implementation of a new principal evaluation system. Additionally, the governing board shared its improved self-evaluation score and discussed the proposed district budget, which prioritizes class size reduction, curriculum adoption, special education support, and salary increases for employees.

The meeting featured a public hearing regarding a fiscal year budget revision, followed by a regular governing board meeting. Key topics included the adoption of the agenda, a student-focused governance presentation outlining district vision and goals, and a progress monitoring report on academic goals for fifth and eighth grade students. Discussions also covered teacher retention strategies and challenges, school-specific performance data, and the importance of data-driven instruction and curriculum rigor.

This community update from the Roosevelt School District details the 'Reinventing Roosevelt' initiative, a strategic plan to repurpose five school campuses. Key priorities include transforming King into an Early Childhood Center, developing Bush into a magnet specialty school, and engaging the community for the future use of Jorgenson, Lassen, and Davis campuses. The overarching purpose is to consolidate resources, expand programs, enhance services, and ensure every child receives a high-quality education, with changes phased for the 2025-2026 school year, ultimately building stronger opportunities for students.

The Reinventing Roosevelt initiative by the Roosevelt School District outlines a strategic plan to address financial challenges and secure a better future for its students, families, staff, and the South Phoenix Community. The core strategy involves consolidating and repurposing campuses to eliminate a recurring $5 million deficit and achieve long-term financial stability. This plan aims to maximize funding for student programs, expand opportunities for advanced learning and extracurricular activities, and provide competitive salaries for staff. It also seeks to strengthen the community by offering expanded childcare, enhanced social services, and community programs, ultimately fostering a brighter, more equitable future through education.