Round Valley Report with Responses Prepared By:*

One-hundred-percent (100%) of RVUSD students qualify for free meals through the National School Lunch Program. Meals are prepared in a central kitchen and served in the District's multi-purpose room.

Many students experience domestic violence and unstable home environments. Abuse of alcohol and illegal drugs is widespread. Response: (Health and Human Services Agency) County of Mendocino, Department of Public Health, Director of Alcohol and Other Drug Programs. Without additional information, we can neither agree nor disagree on this finding.

Round Valley has few coordinated programs that focus the schools, Tribe and other community members on strong families, healthy children and academic success. Response: (Health and Human Services Agency) County of Mendocino, Department of Public Health, Director of Alcohol and Other Drug Programs. Without additional information, we can neither agree nor disagree on this finding.

Deeply embedded family loyalties discourage organized gang activity, but, on occasion, family rivalries lead to divisive and violent behavior.

Round Valley residents have limited access to medical and dental care, counseling, and other health-related services. Response: (Health and Human Services Agency) County of Mendocino, Department of Public Health, Director of Alcohol and Other Drug Programs. Without additional information, we can neither agree nor disagree on this finding. ROUND VALLEY REPORT WITH RESPONSES PREPARED BY: The BOARD OF SUPERVISORS and HHSA – Public Health Division – Alcohol and Other Drug Program

Transportation is a chronic problem. The tradition of traveling as a family outside the Valley interferes with school attendance and disrupts learning.

The number of working adults is reduced by a lack of local jobs, making it difficult to enlist experienced people to work as Regional Occupation Program (ROP) instructors or to volunteer in the schools.

Due to isolation and economic conditions, some families leave Round Valley to seek more prosperous conditions. These factors also make it difficult to attract and retain teachers, staff, and other public service employees. They directly impact student social development and academic achievement. FINDINGS RE: CAMPUS AND CLASSROOM FACILITIES

The campus consists of a K-8 Elementary/Middle School, the High School, Community Day School, Pre-School, ROP shop and agricultural facilities, a music studio, and counseling and tutorial spaces. Students share a gymnasium, central kitchen and multi-purpose room/cafeteria.

The campus is fenced and gated on the main street. Gates remain open during the day and are locked at night and on weekends.

The main school buildings were constructed in 1959. Several more recent permanent structures and modular units also house classes. All are in reasonably good condition. The District maintains athletic fields for track, football, soccer and

baseball. Well-maintained separate playground areas are provided for the pre-school center and elementary students. Updated equipment is in sound condition. A new central heating system, installed in 2007 in the gym and main high

school buildings, has made these buildings more comfortable and is also more energy efficient than the original boiler system. A recently installed phone system makes it possible to communicate with

teachers in their classrooms in the event of an emergency.

The classrooms, library, and ROP technology lab have updated computers and high speed Internet access acquired with ROP and grant funding.

A misunderstanding concerning wiring of the technology lab resulted in exposed outlets and cables that create serious trip hazards. Risks remain despite the use of highway cones to mark outlets. ROUND VALLEY REPORT WITH RESPONSES PREPARED BY: The BOARD OF SUPERVISORS and HHSA - Public Health Division - Alcohol and Other Drug Program

Classrooms cannot be locked from the inside. Jurors were advised of the intention to install appropriate interior locks.

Most of the students ride District buses to school. Busing is provided for off-campus sports events and other school activities. The District has a bus barn and a full time mechanic to maintain its bus fleet.

Classrooms were clean and well lit. Evacuation maps and the Williams Uniform Complaint Policy were posted in classrooms. No graffiti was observed during Grand Jury visits. The amount of litter was minimal. Policy dictates that when vandalism occurs, it is promptly repaired. FINDINGS RE: SCHOOL CULTURE/ACADEMIC AND BEHAVIORAL NORMS

Average daily attendance (ADA) in 2006 for the elementary/middle school was 88%; the goal for 2007 is 92-95%. The high school ADA of 75% in 2005-06 is currently closer to 70%.

Some students miss school to fill lucrative jobs in the marijuana industry.

Response: (Mendocino County Board of Supervisors) The Board of Supervisors cannot respond without additional information. Therefore, we can neither agree nor disagree on this finding. Response: (Health and Human Services Agency) County of Mendocino, Department of Public Health, Director of Alcohol and Other Drug Programs. Without additional information, we can neither agree nor disagree on this finding. Not all students and families fully understand that successful learning

depends on regular school attendance. Response: (Health and Human Services Agency) County of Mendocino, Department of Public Health, Director of Alcohol and Other Drug Programs Without additional information, we can neither agree nor disagree on this finding. High school students and their parents are required to sign a statement

acknowledging that they have read and agree to abide by school policies and procedures and guidelines for student behavior. ROUND VALLEY REPORT WITH RESPONSES PREPARED BY: The BOARD OF SUPERVISORS and HHSA - Public Health Division - Alcohol and Other Drug Program School Board policies set attendance and academic standards for

participation in team sports that are highly valued by students and the community. Varsity and JV sports are cancelled when there are not enough players who meet the academic requirements. The School Attendance Review Board (SARB) has been reinstated and

truant students are referred for disciplinary action. Response: (Mendocino County Board of Supervisors) The Board of Supervisors cannot respond without additional information. Therefore, we can neither agree nor disagree on this finding. Incentives are offered for families, students, and classes to encourage

regular attendance. Incentives, such as treats, art projects, and first access to the swimming pool are also built into after-school and summer programs to encourage participation and regular attendance. The administration is committed to maintaining the school campus and a 31. 100' perimeter as a safe zone: "...no drugs, no bullying, no bigotry." However, some younger and other vulnerable high school students are still subjected to hazing. Response: (Health and Human Services Agency) County of Mendocino, Department of Public Health, Director of Alcohol and Other Drug Programs Without additional information, we can neither agree nor disagree on this finding. A zero tolerance policy for alcohol, tobacco and other drugs is rigorously

100' perimeter as a safe zone: "...no drugs, no bullying, no bigotry." However, some younger and other vulnerable high school students are still subjected to hazing. Response: (Health and Human Services Agency) County of Mendocino, Department of Public Health, Director of Alcohol and Other Drug Programs Without additional information, we can neither agree nor disagree on this finding. A zero tolerance policy for alcohol, tobacco and other drugs is rigorously

enforced on campus. Alcoholic beverage containers, once observed in large numbers on campus, are now seen much less frequently. Response: (Health and Human Services Agency) County of Mendocino. Department of Public Health, Director of Alcohol and Other Drug Programs Without additional information, we can neither agree nor disagree on this finding. Marijuana-related incidents occur at both the Elementary/Middle and High

Schools. They are dealt with promptly in accordance with published disciplinary policies. Response: (Mendocino County Board of Supervisors) The Board of Supervisors cannot respond without additional information. Therefore, we can neither agree nor disagree on this finding. ROUND VALLEY REPORT WITH RESPONSES PREPARED BY: The BOARD OF SUPERVISORS and HHSA - Public Health Division - Alcohol and Other Drug Program Response: (Health and Human Services Agency) County of Mendocino, Department of Public Health, Director of Alcohol and Other Drug Programs Without additional information, we can neither agree nor disagree on this finding.

Clothing that displays drug-related or other inappropriate messages, including "gang colors," is not permitted.

A "Hats Off" rule in classrooms and the cafeteria has been instituted across grade levels as a symbol of respect. A strong emphasis on respect and individual responsibility was evident in

interviews with teachers and administrators, and in mottos and themes observed in classrooms, offices, the library and cafeteria. Response: (Health and Human Services Agency) County of Mendocino, Department of Public Health, Director of Alcohol and Other Drug Programs Without additional information, we can neither agree nor disagree on this finding.

Depictions of cultural and ethnic diversity are apparent in posted art, academic work, advertised activities for students and families, and murals produced by students and teachers with direction by a local artist. Response: (Health and Human Services Agency) County of Mendocino, Department of Public Health Director of Alcohol and Other Drug Programs. Without additional information, we can neither agree nor disagree on this finding.

Celebrations of Tribal Culture, sports events, musical programs, back-to- school nights and graduations are all well-attended by families and other community members. FINDINGS RE: HEALTH AND SAFETY

A nutritionist is responsible for daily school menus. Participation in meal programs is universal among elementary students, but is lower among high school students. A full-time Licensed Vocational Nurse serves all RVUSD students during

school hours. ROUND VALLEY REPORT WITH RESPONSES PREPARED BY: The BOARD OF SUPERVISORS and HHSA - Public Health Division - Alcohol and Other Drug Program The Round Valley Indian Health Center (RVIHC) has an MOU with the

District to provide medical care for students. RVIHC also promotes teen fitness and informs youth about the risks of obesity and diabetes. Programs discourage use of all forms of tobacco, alcohol and illegal drugs. The Center's grant-funded Fit Teen Program provides classes and field trips. Response: (Health and Human Services Agency) County of Mendocino, Department of Public Health, Director of Alcohol and Other Drug Programs Without additional information, we can neither agree nor disagree on this finding. The District purchases accidental-injury insurance that covers all students

during school hours and during school-related activities. The Covelo Volunteer Fire Department provides essential fire safety and

emergency medical services and regularly inspects campus facilities and fire extinguishers. Fire drills are conducted regularly. RVUSD is working with MCOE to develop a fully coordinated emergency

response plan and to engage youth in emergency preparedness by establishing the Teen CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) program. Lockdown drills have been discussed but have yet to be implemented.

The District has received a grant to secure video surveillance cameras for

the campus but has not yet acquired and installed them. State categorical funding currently provides a Campus Security

Supervisor, who is on the grounds during school hours and sporting events to monitor student behavior and intervene as necessary. Continued funding for this position is uncertain. Two resident Sheriff's Deputies were hired in spring of 2008 to fill long-

standing vacancies and serve Round Valley. In keeping with long-standing tradition, Tribal Police provide back-up when

needed. Tribal Police have a good working relationship with the District although an MOU is not yet in place to formalize the relationship. FINDINGS RE: COURSES, INSTRUCTION AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE The Elementary/Middle School API score for 2006-07 was 594. This

reflects a 42 point increase over the 2005-06 score of 552. ROUND VALLEY REPORT WITH RESPONSES PREPARED BY: The BOARD OF SUPERVISORS and HHSA - Public Health Division - Alcohol and Other Drug Program The High School API for 2005-06 was 552. Test results for 2006-07 are

not available. In June 2007, of the 25 seniors: 14 graduated; one received a certificate of

completion; 13 passed the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE) with minimally acceptable scores.

Under SAIT restrictions, elementary teaching is strictly monitored to focus on math and English/Language Arts instruction (ELA). Tutorial, after- school and summer programs also focus on math and ELA for elementary students and on the CAHSEE for high school students. Educational emphasis is on raising performance of low-achieving

students. Honors and Advanced Placement classes are not regularly offered for

college-bound youth. Arrangements can be made for online courses. These are offered at no cost through the University of California Advanced Placement Program. Local school support for online classes is not currently available.

There are no high school science labs.

A vast majority of RVUSD students remain in Round Valley as adults. ROP hands-on learning engages students and is seen as most relevant to their lives. The ROP program offers classes in Culinary Arts, Computers, Advanced

Computers, Desk Top Publishing, Web Design, Ornamental Horticulture, Ag Mechanics and Animal Science. The District has facilities for additional ROP classes in auto mechanics, welding and woodworking. Teachers have yet to be found with these qualifications. Courses in fashion design and recording arts have also been proposed. FINDINGS RE: INSTRUCTIONAL STAFF ROUND VALLEY REPORT WITH RESPONSES PREPARED BY: The BOARD OF SUPERVISORS and HHSA – Public Health Division – Alcohol and Other Drug Program MCOE. All teachers receive support through MCOE as part of the SAIT process.

The elementary school's 10 classroom aides all have AA Degrees and/or a Math or English Proficiency Certificate. Retirements have left several critical staff vacancies for ROP instructors

and for a Speech Therapist. Staff restructuring has provided leadership for the High School and Independent Studies/Continuation School effective 2/25/08. Scarcity of affordable housing, isolation, and limited social activities were

all cited as reasons teachers leave the district.

Teachers are recruited through Ed-Join, a statewide internet site for public school job postings and applications. Applicants are interviewed in Round Valley after on-line screening. The District has been successful in recruiting employees raised in Round Valley. The RVUSD Superintendent checks references for prospective hires.

Fingerprinting is documented by the District and credentials are confirmed and filed with MCOE.

RVUSD has covered the full cost of medical insurance for its employees and this was repeatedly described as an important incentive to work for the District. Current year contracts are not yet finalized.

Beginning teacher salaries in Round Valley are the highest in Mendocino County. Salaries for experienced teachers are at mid-level for the County. FINDINGS RE: THE ADMINISTRATION AND SCHOOL BOARD

In the past five years, there have been four (4) superintendent changes, four (4) high school principals and five (5) elementary school principals. The District currently lacks a business manager. These frequent leadership changes have eroded educational programs by undermining the District's management systems, disciplinary procedures and classroom instruction. Relationships between the schools, the Round Valley Tribe, and other community members have suffered.

In June of 2007, MCOE assigned a Recovery Specialist to serve as District Superintendent and lead an Intervention Team; additional team members were assigned in fall of 2007. In February 2008, the School Board adopted an MOU with MCOE to retain

this leadership structure for the next 18 months. The Recovery Specialist ROUND VALLEY REPORT WITH RESPONSES PREPARED BY: The BOARD OF SUPERVISORS and HHSA - Public Health Division - Alcohol and Other Drug Program will serve as District Superintendent, working collaboratively with the Round Valley School Board and reporting to the County Superintendent.5

The MOU stipulates that if the District continues to make necessary progress, a search will be undertaken for a permanent District Superintendent. MCOE will continue in an oversight role for the first 12 months under the new administrator to assure sustainability.

RVUSD currently contracts with MCOE to provide financial services and to establish tracking systems for students and personnel.

RVUSD spends more per student than the average within Mendocino County. Sources of supplemental funding include Forest Reserve Funds through the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). RVUSD has cash reserves and owns property adjacent to the school

campus. The projected 2007-08 budget was based on anticipated State funds. It

was in balance, with a 5% contingency reserve. However, the 1st Interim Budget update reflected deficit spending of $319,316. Considerable State budget uncertainty remains. BIA funding is declining. In 2008, Forest Reserve Revenue of $207,154

will phase out. Grants are an increasingly important funding source.

Two of the five RVUSD School Board members are employees of the Round Valley Tribe. Board Members have participated in group trainings for the past two years and have approved funds for additional training in 2007-08.

The Board Chair recently completed the California School Board Association (CSBA) Masters in Governance Program, a 60-hour professional development program for school board members. Three other board members are at various stages of completing this program.

The Board is in the process of reviewing all school policies with support from the CSBA. When completed, policies will be maintained on the CSBA website. Pursuant to Education Code Section 1240, the County Superintendent is required to "Superintend the schools of his or her county" and to "learn of its problems." Education Code Sections 1241.5 and 42127.6 provide additional authority and responsibilities relative to fiscal oversight duties. ROUND VALLEY REPORT WITH RESPONSES PREPARED BY: The BOARD OF SUPERVISORS and HHSA - Public Health Division - Alcohol and Other Drug Program COMMENTS The Grand Jury has attempted to: Identify factors underlying the District's decline; • Document the recovery efforts by the current Intervention Team and the • dedicated teachers, staff, school board members, students and other community members. Poverty and widespread abuse of alcohol and illegal drugs in Round Valley undermine family stability and are serious obstacles to the development of the community's children and youth. Irregular school attendance interferes with learning. Strong leadership was described as the most important factor for improving the quality of the District's schools. Jurors heard promising reports of improved staff morale and student behavior. A Parent Teacher Organization and other school/community partnerships are beginning to form. Also noteworthy, is the emphasis on expanding the number of ROP classes that engage students in hands-on learning that is directly relevant to their lives and potential future occupations. Repeated site visits made it clear that continued MCOE support and even broader student-focused community involvement will be needed if Round Valley youth are to reach their full potential. Round Valley has experienced many academic peaks and valleys; the challenge is to preserve the impressive but fragile gains that have been made and to achieve a high and sustainable plateau. On an early visit to Round Valley, Jurors learned of a new District-wide policy requiring the removal of hats when students are inside the school. In the short time, since the term had begun, this traditional gesture of respect was surprisingly noticeable...both in the relative uniformity of its enforcement and in the apparent willingness of most students to comply. After years of declining discipline, accountability, morale, and performance, most teachers and many students appeared to recognize the rule as symbolic of positive change. Every journey begins with a single step, and in Round Valley, the "hats off rule" may well prove to be that first critical step toward renewed respect and personal responsibility. Our hats are off to those who are making success a reality in this exceptionally challenging environment. ROUND VALLEY REPORT WITH RESPONSES PREPARED BY: The BOARD OF SUPERVISORS and HHSA - Public Health Division - Alcohol and Other Drug Program