Seattle Hall Pass Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:02:56 -0400 https://www.seattlehallpass.org en-us © 2026 Seattle Hall Pass yes 91123242-c505-5304-8da5-af6e891881b2 Christie Robertson, Jane Tunks Demel, Jasmine Pulido episodic false A podcast with news and conversations about Seattle Public Schools.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Christie Robertson, Jane Tunks Demel, Jasmine Pulido https://storage.buzzsprout.com/0qt3tshj5a7qois26snnwfecwog4?.jpg Seattle Hall Pass https://www.seattlehallpass.org Christie Robertson Jane Tunks Demel Jasmine Pulido Seattle Hall Pass Bids Farewell Seattle Hall Pass Bids Farewell See our press release. 

]]> See our press release. 

]]> Various Buzzsprout-16143251 Wed, 20 Nov 2024 13:00:00 -0800 150 full false S2 E14 - Data Night with Dr. Hart (plus, Planning for the new Strategic Plan) S2 E14 - Data Night with Dr. Hart (plus, Planning for the new Strategic Plan) In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, hosts Christie, Jane, and Jasmine dive into the data-rich presentation on Seattle Public Schools' student outcomes, delivered by Dr. Ray Hart, Executive Director of the Council of Great City Schools, at the October 23rd special school board meeting. They break down the findings on student performance trends, equity gaps, and economic factors affecting achievement. The hosts also explore the subsequent board discussion, where school directors reviewed draft goals proposed by district staff for the upcoming strategic plan.

See our Show Notes
Contact us

]]> In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, hosts Christie, Jane, and Jasmine dive into the data-rich presentation on Seattle Public Schools' student outcomes, delivered by Dr. Ray Hart, Executive Director of the Council of Great City Schools, at the October 23rd special school board meeting. They break down the findings on student performance trends, equity gaps, and economic factors affecting achievement. The hosts also explore the subsequent board discussion, where school directors reviewed draft goals proposed by district staff for the upcoming strategic plan.

See our Show Notes
Contact us

]]> Various Buzzsprout-16097375 Wed, 13 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0800 2500 2 14 full false S2 E13 - School Board Director Gina Topp S2 E13 - School Board Director Gina Topp In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, school board director Gina Topp discusses the school closure plans with co-hosts Christie and Jane. The three also discuss Seattle Public Schools’ $94 million budget gap, the upcoming legislative session, community engagement, and student outcomes-focused governance.

See our Show Notes
Contact us

]]> In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, school board director Gina Topp discusses the school closure plans with co-hosts Christie and Jane. The three also discuss Seattle Public Schools’ $94 million budget gap, the upcoming legislative session, community engagement, and student outcomes-focused governance.

See our Show Notes
Contact us

]]> Various Buzzsprout-16076559 Sat, 09 Nov 2024 16:00:00 -0800 1991 2 13 full false S2 E12 - 4 Schools S2 E12 - 4 Schools In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we dive into Seattle Public Schools' proposal to close and consolidate four elementary schools: North Beach, Sacajawea, Stevens, and Sanislo. Christie, Jane, and Jasmine explore critical questions surrounding the district’s decision-making process, including the criteria used for selecting these schools, the potential impacts on special education services, and how transitions might affect students and staff. We discuss community concerns, staffing changes, and the broader implications for the SPS landscape.

See our Show Notes.
Contact us.

]]> In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we dive into Seattle Public Schools' proposal to close and consolidate four elementary schools: North Beach, Sacajawea, Stevens, and Sanislo. Christie, Jane, and Jasmine explore critical questions surrounding the district’s decision-making process, including the criteria used for selecting these schools, the potential impacts on special education services, and how transitions might affect students and staff. We discuss community concerns, staffing changes, and the broader implications for the SPS landscape.

See our Show Notes.
Contact us.

]]> Various Buzzsprout-16050283 Tue, 05 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0800 2626 2 12 full false S2 E11 - Can SPS go bankrupt? with Stephen Nielsen S2 E11 - Can SPS go bankrupt? with Stephen Nielsen In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we sit down with former Seattle Public Schools Deputy Superintendent Stephen Nielsen to understand the implications of “binding conditions” and potential state oversight for Seattle Public Schools if it can’t close its budget gap. Nielsen shares his insights on what financial oversight might look like, the difficult cuts that could follow, and the complex history of Washington's education funding.

See our Show Notes

Contact us: Send corrections, suggestions, and comments to hello@seattlehallpass.org. 

Disclaimer: Seattle Hall Pass features a variety of voices. Each person’s opinions are their own. 

]]> In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we sit down with former Seattle Public Schools Deputy Superintendent Stephen Nielsen to understand the implications of “binding conditions” and potential state oversight for Seattle Public Schools if it can’t close its budget gap. Nielsen shares his insights on what financial oversight might look like, the difficult cuts that could follow, and the complex history of Washington's education funding.

See our Show Notes

Contact us: Send corrections, suggestions, and comments to hello@seattlehallpass.org. 

Disclaimer: Seattle Hall Pass features a variety of voices. Each person’s opinions are their own. 

]]> Various Buzzsprout-16034291 Fri, 01 Nov 2024 17:00:00 -0700 2215 2 11 full false S2 E10 - Community Voices on Student Safety S2 E10 - Community Voices on Student Safety In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we discuss school and student safety in Seattle Public Schools, featuring interviews with students, staff, and parents. We explore concerns about balancing physical safety measures with the need for mental health support, sharing perspectives on a $20 million initially promised from the city for mental health. Voices from the community highlight the role of telehealth, community organizations like Community Passageways, and the controversial possibility of the return of School Resource Officers (SROs). Interviewees offer suggestions for improving safety, including wellness rooms and better communication between students and administrators.

Community voices featured in this episode include:

  • Rafi Brewer, a sophomore at Garfield High School
  • Fatra Hussein, a junior at Franklin High School
  • Isaiah Parker, a student at Ingraham High School
  • Kaz Hill, a student at Ingraham High School
  • Shraddha Shrudde, a math teacher at Cleveland High School
  • Lexi Awdziejczyk, a counselor at Franklin High School
  • Alicia Spanswick, co-president of the PTSA at Garfield High School
  • Kathleen Zagers, president of the parent organization at Ingraham High School

See our Show Notes

Contact us: Send corrections, suggestions, and comments to hello@seattlehallpass.org. 

Disclaimer: Seattle Hall Pass features a variety of voices. Each person’s opinions are their own. 

]]> In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we discuss school and student safety in Seattle Public Schools, featuring interviews with students, staff, and parents. We explore concerns about balancing physical safety measures with the need for mental health support, sharing perspectives on a $20 million initially promised from the city for mental health. Voices from the community highlight the role of telehealth, community organizations like Community Passageways, and the controversial possibility of the return of School Resource Officers (SROs). Interviewees offer suggestions for improving safety, including wellness rooms and better communication between students and administrators.

Community voices featured in this episode include:

  • Rafi Brewer, a sophomore at Garfield High School
  • Fatra Hussein, a junior at Franklin High School
  • Isaiah Parker, a student at Ingraham High School
  • Kaz Hill, a student at Ingraham High School
  • Shraddha Shrudde, a math teacher at Cleveland High School
  • Lexi Awdziejczyk, a counselor at Franklin High School
  • Alicia Spanswick, co-president of the PTSA at Garfield High School
  • Kathleen Zagers, president of the parent organization at Ingraham High School

See our Show Notes

Contact us: Send corrections, suggestions, and comments to hello@seattlehallpass.org. 

Disclaimer: Seattle Hall Pass features a variety of voices. Each person’s opinions are their own. 

]]> Various Buzzsprout-15959726 Mon, 21 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0700 2588 2 10 full true S2 E9 - Option C - with School Board Director Joe Mizrahi S2 E9 - Option C - with School Board Director Joe Mizrahi In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, School Board Director Joe Mizrahi shares his perspective on Seattle Public Schools' plans for addressing declining enrollment and budget deficits. Director Mizrahi emphasizes the importance of minimizing impacts on students and families, focusing on a more thoughtful and community-centered approach to school closures. He touches as well on the role of state funding and community advocacy in shaping the future of Seattle's schools. We also discuss his thoughts on school board operations and dynamics.

See our Show Notes
Contact Us

]]> In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, School Board Director Joe Mizrahi shares his perspective on Seattle Public Schools' plans for addressing declining enrollment and budget deficits. Director Mizrahi emphasizes the importance of minimizing impacts on students and families, focusing on a more thoughtful and community-centered approach to school closures. He touches as well on the role of state funding and community advocacy in shaping the future of Seattle's schools. We also discuss his thoughts on school board operations and dynamics.

See our Show Notes
Contact Us

]]> Various Buzzsprout-15941277 Thu, 17 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0700 2093 2 9 full false S2 E8 - Behind Closed Doors S2 E8 - Behind Closed Doors Christie, Jane, and Jasmine break down the October 9 Seattle School Board meeting, where the board passed a resolution to close up to five schools. We discuss the surprise executive session, held behind closed doors, and the newly imposed controls on board directors' questions and interactions with staff and the superintendent. Finally, we opine on where Student Outcomes Focused Governance is taking us.

Show Notes
Contact us

]]> Christie, Jane, and Jasmine break down the October 9 Seattle School Board meeting, where the board passed a resolution to close up to five schools. We discuss the surprise executive session, held behind closed doors, and the newly imposed controls on board directors' questions and interactions with staff and the superintendent. Finally, we opine on where Student Outcomes Focused Governance is taking us.

Show Notes
Contact us

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-15915303 Sat, 12 Oct 2024 19:00:00 -0700 2297 2 8 full false S2 E7 - Option C - School Board Recall, with Ben Gitenstein S2 E7 - Option C - School Board Recall, with Ben Gitenstein In this first episode of our Option C series, we explore alternatives to Seattle Public Schools' closure plans, known as Options A and B, which initially proposed closing up to 21 schools.

Our guest, Ben Gitenstein, an SPS parent and former school board candidate, introduces the idea of a school board recall as his "Option C" in response to what he sees as the school board's undemocratic and ideological actions.

Our guests' opinions are their own.

See our Show Notes
Contact us

]]> In this first episode of our Option C series, we explore alternatives to Seattle Public Schools' closure plans, known as Options A and B, which initially proposed closing up to 21 schools.

Our guest, Ben Gitenstein, an SPS parent and former school board candidate, introduces the idea of a school board recall as his "Option C" in response to what he sees as the school board's undemocratic and ideological actions.

Our guests' opinions are their own.

See our Show Notes
Contact us

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-15905073 Thu, 10 Oct 2024 12:00:00 -0700 2037 2 7 full false S2 E6 - Cold Feet on Closures S2 E6 - Cold Feet on Closures In this episode, we discuss Seattle Public Schools' revised plan to close 5 schools instead of 17-21, and the renewal of Superintendent Jones' contract with modified evaluation metrics. We reflect on feedback from our previous episode and emphasize continued advocacy for education funding.

See our Show Notes.
Contact us.

]]> In this episode, we discuss Seattle Public Schools' revised plan to close 5 schools instead of 17-21, and the renewal of Superintendent Jones' contract with modified evaluation metrics. We reflect on feedback from our previous episode and emphasize continued advocacy for education funding.

See our Show Notes.
Contact us.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-15866922 Thu, 03 Oct 2024 22:00:00 -0700 1504 2 6 full false S2 E5 - The Story of How We Got Here S2 E5 - The Story of How We Got Here This episode of Seattle Hall Pass focuses on three main stories converging in Seattle Public Schools:

  1. The Financial Story
  2. The Equity Story
  3. The Student Story

... and how these competing priorities create a complex, seemingly impossible situation for the district to resolve satisfactorily.

See our Show Notes.
Contact us.

]]> This episode of Seattle Hall Pass focuses on three main stories converging in Seattle Public Schools:

  1. The Financial Story
  2. The Equity Story
  3. The Student Story

... and how these competing priorities create a complex, seemingly impossible situation for the district to resolve satisfactorily.

See our Show Notes.
Contact us.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-15804309 Mon, 23 Sep 2024 18:00:00 -0700 2552 2 5 full false S2 E4 - Student Outcomes Focused Governance, in Seattle S2 E4 - Student Outcomes Focused Governance, in Seattle Seattle Public School Board President Liza Rankin, Student Outcomes Focused Governance coach AJ Crabill, and public school advocate Robert Cruickshank are interviewed about the governance model used by the SPS School Board. Thanks to Dawson Nichols for producing this episode.

This is a video! Watch the video here.
See our Show Notes.

Note: Seattle Hall Pass features a variety of voices. Each person’s opinions are their own.
Contact us with any corrections, suggestions, or other thoughts at hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> Seattle Public School Board President Liza Rankin, Student Outcomes Focused Governance coach AJ Crabill, and public school advocate Robert Cruickshank are interviewed about the governance model used by the SPS School Board. Thanks to Dawson Nichols for producing this episode.

This is a video! Watch the video here.
See our Show Notes.

Note: Seattle Hall Pass features a variety of voices. Each person’s opinions are their own.
Contact us with any corrections, suggestions, or other thoughts at hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-15775094 Wed, 18 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0700 2683 2 4 full false S2 E3 - There IS a List(s) S2 E3 - There IS a List(s) Seattle Public Schools has finally released potential lists of schools to close. We attempt to sort through some of the information.

See our show notes.
Contact us: Send corrections, suggestions, and comments to hello@seattlehallpass.org. Send us a voice memo at speak.seattlehallpass.org

Disclaimer: Seattle Hall Pass features a variety of voices. Each person’s opinions are their own. 

]]> Seattle Public Schools has finally released potential lists of schools to close. We attempt to sort through some of the information.

See our show notes.
Contact us: Send corrections, suggestions, and comments to hello@seattlehallpass.org. Send us a voice memo at speak.seattlehallpass.org

Disclaimer: Seattle Hall Pass features a variety of voices. Each person’s opinions are their own. 

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-15748525 Fri, 13 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0700 1172 2 3 full false S2 E2 - Cake from Lemons: Tough Decisions Ahead S2 E2 - Cake from Lemons: Tough Decisions Ahead We review major topics from the school board meeting on August 28. Topics include: 

  • school closures and state funding
  • dual-language immersion 
  • principals’ union contract
  • highly capable services

See our Show Notes
Contact us at hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> We review major topics from the school board meeting on August 28. Topics include: 

  • school closures and state funding
  • dual-language immersion 
  • principals’ union contract
  • highly capable services

See our Show Notes
Contact us at hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-15699401 Thu, 05 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0700 1600 2 2 full false S2 E1 - A New Year for Student Safety S2 E1 - A New Year for Student Safety Christie, Jasmine, and Jane discuss new safety measures being implemented for the upcoming school year.  The total investment of $14.55 million by the city and school district includes mental health support, violence intervention, and increased police presence around schools.
 
Show Notes
Contact us at hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> Christie, Jasmine, and Jane discuss new safety measures being implemented for the upcoming school year.  The total investment of $14.55 million by the city and school district includes mental health support, violence intervention, and increased police presence around schools.
 
Show Notes
Contact us at hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-15680266 Mon, 02 Sep 2024 08:00:00 -0700 672 2 1 full false E46 - Season One Lookback E46 - Season One Lookback Christie Robertson and intern Jasmine Pulido look back at Season One of Seattle Hall Pass, which spanned the 2023-24 school year at Seattle Public Schools. They reference Hall Pass episodes on the district’s budget woes, postponed school closures, school board director resignations and appointments, the state legislature, and student outcomes progress monitoring.

See our Show Notes.
Email us at hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> Christie Robertson and intern Jasmine Pulido look back at Season One of Seattle Hall Pass, which spanned the 2023-24 school year at Seattle Public Schools. They reference Hall Pass episodes on the district’s budget woes, postponed school closures, school board director resignations and appointments, the state legislature, and student outcomes progress monitoring.

See our Show Notes.
Email us at hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> Buzzsprout-15627565 Fri, 23 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0700 1159 1 46 full false E45 - There Is Not a List, Part 3 - List in September? November? December? E45 - There Is Not a List, Part 3 - List in September? November? December? Jane and Christie cover the June 26, 2024 school board meeting with help from our new intern, Jasmine Pulido. Topics include the postponement of releasing a list of schools to be closed in 2025, the 2024-25 budget introduction and hearing, and the reduction in school board meetings scheduled for the 2024-25 school year.

Contact us: Send corrections, suggestions, and comments to hello@seattlehallpass.org. 

Disclaimer: Seattle Hall Pass features a variety of voices. Each person’s opinions are their own. 

]]> Jane and Christie cover the June 26, 2024 school board meeting with help from our new intern, Jasmine Pulido. Topics include the postponement of releasing a list of schools to be closed in 2025, the 2024-25 budget introduction and hearing, and the reduction in school board meetings scheduled for the 2024-25 school year.

Contact us: Send corrections, suggestions, and comments to hello@seattlehallpass.org. 

Disclaimer: Seattle Hall Pass features a variety of voices. Each person’s opinions are their own. 

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-15413781 Mon, 15 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0700 2353 1 45 full false E44 - What Do Other Districts Do? E44 - What Do Other Districts Do? This is a new segment called "What Do Other Districts Do?" In this episode, we discuss how other districts handle school closures and how often other districts have school board meetings.

See our Show Notes
Contact us at hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> This is a new segment called "What Do Other Districts Do?" In this episode, we discuss how other districts handle school closures and how often other districts have school board meetings.

See our Show Notes
Contact us at hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-15293656 Sat, 22 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0700 1029 1 44 full false E43 - Seattle School Closures, Past and Present E43 - Seattle School Closures, Past and Present This is a video! See the video here!

In 2005, Seattle Public Schools was projecting falling enrollment, and over the ensuing years, 11 schools were closed. But it turned out that the projections were wrong, and SPS needed to reopen most of the buildings. New Seattle Hall Pass contributor Dawson Nichols spoke to four people who were there - Kay Smith-Blum, Leslie Harris, Sue Peters, and Dora Taylor. 

Note that these interviews were recorded before the June 10 school board meeting had been moved to June 26.

See our very extensive Show Notes for lots more information.

Disclaimer: Seattle Hall Pass features a variety of voices. Each person’s opinions are their own. 

Contact us: Send corrections, suggestions, and comments to hello@seattlehallpass.org or speak.seattlehallpass.org. 


]]> This is a video! See the video here!

In 2005, Seattle Public Schools was projecting falling enrollment, and over the ensuing years, 11 schools were closed. But it turned out that the projections were wrong, and SPS needed to reopen most of the buildings. New Seattle Hall Pass contributor Dawson Nichols spoke to four people who were there - Kay Smith-Blum, Leslie Harris, Sue Peters, and Dora Taylor. 

Note that these interviews were recorded before the June 10 school board meeting had been moved to June 26.

See our very extensive Show Notes for lots more information.

Disclaimer: Seattle Hall Pass features a variety of voices. Each person’s opinions are their own. 

Contact us: Send corrections, suggestions, and comments to hello@seattlehallpass.org or speak.seattlehallpass.org. 


]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-15252280 Fri, 14 Jun 2024 13:00:00 -0700 2058 1 43 full false E42 - School closures: SPS finally engages E42 - School closures: SPS finally engages See our Show Notes
Contact us hello@seattlehallpass.org

School Closure Community Engagement Meetings, May 28 - June 1. In this episode of the Seattle Hall Pass podcast, Christie Robertson and Jane Tunks Demel discuss the recent community meetings held by Seattle Public Schools regarding the proposed closure of 20 out of 73 elementary schools by the 2025-26 school year. They report on the first meeting at Roosevelt High School, which was poorly received due to lack of information and engagement, and then discuss the subsequent meetings at Garfield and Chief Sealth High Schools, where the district provided more details and answered questions from the community. The hosts share key information from the meetings, including estimated cost savings, enrollment projections, and the district's rationale for the closures, while also highlighting some of the community's concerns and unanswered questions.

]]> See our Show Notes
Contact us hello@seattlehallpass.org

School Closure Community Engagement Meetings, May 28 - June 1. In this episode of the Seattle Hall Pass podcast, Christie Robertson and Jane Tunks Demel discuss the recent community meetings held by Seattle Public Schools regarding the proposed closure of 20 out of 73 elementary schools by the 2025-26 school year. They report on the first meeting at Roosevelt High School, which was poorly received due to lack of information and engagement, and then discuss the subsequent meetings at Garfield and Chief Sealth High Schools, where the district provided more details and answered questions from the community. The hosts share key information from the meetings, including estimated cost savings, enrollment projections, and the district's rationale for the closures, while also highlighting some of the community's concerns and unanswered questions.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-15188251 Mon, 03 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0700 2277 1 42 full false E41 - Community Speaks, School Board Silent (May 22 board meeting) E41 - Community Speaks, School Board Silent (May 22 board meeting) Seattle School Board Meeting of May 22, 2024. Guardrails on school discipline and welcoming environments will not be met, but this is not discussed. Testimony dominates the meetings, focused on tensions with the administration at Pathfinder K-8, and fears of looming school closures.

See our Show Notes
Contact us hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> Seattle School Board Meeting of May 22, 2024. Guardrails on school discipline and welcoming environments will not be met, but this is not discussed. Testimony dominates the meetings, focused on tensions with the administration at Pathfinder K-8, and fears of looming school closures.

See our Show Notes
Contact us hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-15133684 Sat, 25 May 2024 09:00:00 -0700 895 1 41 full false E40 - There Is Not a List, Part 2: 20 Schools to Close (May 8 school board meeting) E40 - There Is Not a List, Part 2: 20 Schools to Close (May 8 school board meeting) Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel discuss the Seattle School Board Meeting of May 8, 2024, wherein the board agreed to entertain a plan to close 20 elementary schools. The list is coming June 10, 2024.

Disclaimer: Each person's opinion is their own
See our extensive Show Notes
Contact us at hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel discuss the Seattle School Board Meeting of May 8, 2024, wherein the board agreed to entertain a plan to close 20 elementary schools. The list is coming June 10, 2024.

Disclaimer: Each person's opinion is their own
See our extensive Show Notes
Contact us at hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> Buzzsprout-15051759 Sun, 12 May 2024 13:00:00 -0700 2459 1 40 full false E39 - Community Engagement Is Coming, Says Board President Rankin E39 - Community Engagement Is Coming, Says Board President Rankin Show Notes
Contact Us

School Board President Liza Rankin shares the Seattle School Board’s immediate plans for community engagement to help inform the district's new Strategic Plan.


]]> Show Notes
Contact Us

School Board President Liza Rankin shares the Seattle School Board’s immediate plans for community engagement to help inform the district's new Strategic Plan.


]]> Buzzsprout-15008265 Sat, 04 May 2024 14:00:00 -0700 1968 1 39 full false E38 - New Curricula, Graduations on Eid, Time Use Monitoring - April 25 School Board Meeting E38 - New Curricula, Graduations on Eid, Time Use Monitoring - April 25 School Board Meeting See our Show Notes
Contact us hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> See our Show Notes
Contact us hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14986397 Wed, 01 May 2024 07:00:00 -0700 1319 1 38 full false MINI: E37 - The Southeast Seattle Move-a-Thon MINI: E37 - The Southeast Seattle Move-a-Thon In this special episode of the Seattle Schools Pass podcast, guests discuss the role of the Southeast Seattle Schools Fundraising Alliance's (SESSFA) annual Move-a-Thon in supporting 17 of our chronically underfunded schools. The Move-a-Thon raises essential funds for basic needs and educational experiences while also building community. Support the cause by donating online at sessfa.org or via mobile by texting D7MOVES to 44-321.

contact us: hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> In this special episode of the Seattle Schools Pass podcast, guests discuss the role of the Southeast Seattle Schools Fundraising Alliance's (SESSFA) annual Move-a-Thon in supporting 17 of our chronically underfunded schools. The Move-a-Thon raises essential funds for basic needs and educational experiences while also building community. Support the cause by donating online at sessfa.org or via mobile by texting D7MOVES to 44-321.

contact us: hello@seattlehallpass.org

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14976982 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0700 488 1 37 full false E36 - Introducing Director Mizrahi E36 - Introducing Director Mizrahi Detailed Show Notes
Contact us hello@seattlehallpass.org
Leave a message speak.seattlehallpass.org

Jane Tunks Demel and Christie Robertson talk with Joe Mizrahi, the newly elected Seattle School Board Director for Director District 4. Topics include:

  • Community engagement
  • The SPS budget crisis
  • District/board/union relationships
  • Special education and inclusion
]]> Detailed Show Notes
Contact us hello@seattlehallpass.org
Leave a message speak.seattlehallpass.org

Jane Tunks Demel and Christie Robertson talk with Joe Mizrahi, the newly elected Seattle School Board Director for Director District 4. Topics include:

  • Community engagement
  • The SPS budget crisis
  • District/board/union relationships
  • Special education and inclusion
]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14924823 Sat, 20 Apr 2024 18:00:00 -0700 1901 1 36 full false E35 - Board Additions, Budget Revisions, and Plans to Engage - April 3 School Board Meeting E35 - Board Additions, Budget Revisions, and Plans to Engage - April 3 School Board Meeting In Episode 35, we cover the April 3 Seattle School Board meeting and the April 4 swearing-in of the new school board directors Sarah Clark (District 2) and Joe Mizrahi (District 4). We also discuss the budget work session, which included discussions around the 2024-25 school year and the 2025-26 school year. The scheduled progress monitoring session was canceled or postponed, and there was an unscheduled session outlining short-term and long-term community engagement plans. Look for school board directors to be coming to engage with you soon! Tune in on May 8 for the mostly-baked 2025-26 school consolidation and budget-cutting plan.

Show Notes
Email us at hello@seattlehallpass.org
Leave us a voice message at speak.seattlehallpass.org
Discuss this episode on Substack

]]> In Episode 35, we cover the April 3 Seattle School Board meeting and the April 4 swearing-in of the new school board directors Sarah Clark (District 2) and Joe Mizrahi (District 4). We also discuss the budget work session, which included discussions around the 2024-25 school year and the 2025-26 school year. The scheduled progress monitoring session was canceled or postponed, and there was an unscheduled session outlining short-term and long-term community engagement plans. Look for school board directors to be coming to engage with you soon! Tune in on May 8 for the mostly-baked 2025-26 school consolidation and budget-cutting plan.

Show Notes
Email us at hello@seattlehallpass.org
Leave us a voice message at speak.seattlehallpass.org
Discuss this episode on Substack

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14877129 Fri, 12 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0700 1796 1 35 full false E34 - Finalist Forum E34 - Finalist Forum The 8 finalists for the Seattle School Board Director positions for Director Districts 2 and 4 participated in a candidate forum moderated by two students, Aayush Muthuswamy and Semai Hagos.

The finalists for District 2 are:

  • Carol Thompson
  • Sarah Clark
  • Danielle Gahl
  • Shawn Sullivan

The finalists for District 4 are:

  • Rachelle Olden
  • Joe Mizrahi
  • Gabriella Gonzalez
  • Laura Marie Rivera

See our Show Notes

Contact us - hello@seattlehallpass.org

Leave a voice message - speak.seattlehallpass.org


]]> The 8 finalists for the Seattle School Board Director positions for Director Districts 2 and 4 participated in a candidate forum moderated by two students, Aayush Muthuswamy and Semai Hagos.

The finalists for District 2 are:

  • Carol Thompson
  • Sarah Clark
  • Danielle Gahl
  • Shawn Sullivan

The finalists for District 4 are:

  • Rachelle Olden
  • Joe Mizrahi
  • Gabriella Gonzalez
  • Laura Marie Rivera

See our Show Notes

Contact us - hello@seattlehallpass.org

Leave a voice message - speak.seattlehallpass.org


]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14797989 Sat, 30 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0700 1685 1 34 full false E33 - Restarting Community Engagement E33 - Restarting Community Engagement Re: School Board Community Engagement Work Session, March 13, 2024 

See our Show Notes.
Contact us at hello@seattlehallpass.org.

Christie & Jane review and discuss major points from the March 13 community engagement work session. Topics covered:

  1. The 2024 Strategic Plan, 
  2. Part 2 of Well-Resourced Schools 
  3. Ongoing community engagement

Thanks to AJ Crabill for permission to use clips from his audiobook, Great on Their Behalf.

]]> Re: School Board Community Engagement Work Session, March 13, 2024 

See our Show Notes.
Contact us at hello@seattlehallpass.org.

Christie & Jane review and discuss major points from the March 13 community engagement work session. Topics covered:

  1. The 2024 Strategic Plan, 
  2. Part 2 of Well-Resourced Schools 
  3. Ongoing community engagement

Thanks to AJ Crabill for permission to use clips from his audiobook, Great on Their Behalf.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14771891 Tue, 26 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0700 1596 1 33 full false E32 - Budget Limbo - How Low Can You Go? E32 - Budget Limbo - How Low Can You Go? Show Notes
Contact us: hello@seattlehallpass.org

Christie & Jane  cover the Seattle School Board budget work session from March 20, 2024, where the Superintendent’s team outlined $111 million in budget cuts for the 2024-25 school year. School consolidations, bell times, and other changes for the 2025-26 school year will be previewed at the May 8 meeting.


]]> Show Notes
Contact us: hello@seattlehallpass.org

Christie & Jane  cover the Seattle School Board budget work session from March 20, 2024, where the Superintendent’s team outlined $111 million in budget cuts for the 2024-25 school year. School consolidations, bell times, and other changes for the 2025-26 school year will be previewed at the May 8 meeting.


]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14753535 Sun, 24 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0700 2451 1 32 full false E31 - Turn Up the Volume on Student Voice, with Chetan Soni of the Washington Youth Alliance E31 - Turn Up the Volume on Student Voice, with Chetan Soni of the Washington Youth Alliance See our Show Notes
Email hello@seattlehallpass.org with questions, comments, or corrections.

Christie and Jane talk with Chetan Soni, an 18-year-old student and activist who has been a strong advocate for youth voice. We discuss mental health, gun violence, climate concerns, college and career readiness, and more.

]]> See our Show Notes
Email hello@seattlehallpass.org with questions, comments, or corrections.

Christie and Jane talk with Chetan Soni, an 18-year-old student and activist who has been a strong advocate for youth voice. We discuss mental health, gun violence, climate concerns, college and career readiness, and more.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14686095 Mon, 18 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0700 1951 1 31 full false E30 - School Board Picks 8 Finalists for 2 Empty Seats E30 - School Board Picks 8 Finalists for 2 Empty Seats See our Show Notes.
Send errata and other notes to hello@seattlehallpass.org

At the March 13 Special School Board meeting, the 5 sitting directors narrowed down the finalists for Districts 2 and 4. The finalists will participate at a forum at Lincoln High School in Wallingford on March 27, start time TBD.

]]> See our Show Notes.
Send errata and other notes to hello@seattlehallpass.org

At the March 13 Special School Board meeting, the 5 sitting directors narrowed down the finalists for Districts 2 and 4. The finalists will participate at a forum at Lincoln High School in Wallingford on March 27, start time TBD.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14699608 Fri, 15 Mar 2024 19:00:00 -0700 909 1 30 full false E29 - How to Pick a School Board Director E29 - How to Pick a School Board Director See our Show Notes for references.
Email hello@seattlehallpass.org with suggestions or corrections.

Christie and Jane cover the major topics of the March 6, 2024 school board meeting, including:
1) passionate public testimony about school funding allocations and difficulties at Rainier View Elementary
2) a work session in preparation for the March 13 special meeting to select the finalists for the School Board Director positions.
3) a State Auditor's Office audit "entrance meeting" 

]]> See our Show Notes for references.
Email hello@seattlehallpass.org with suggestions or corrections.

Christie and Jane cover the major topics of the March 6, 2024 school board meeting, including:
1) passionate public testimony about school funding allocations and difficulties at Rainier View Elementary
2) a work session in preparation for the March 13 special meeting to select the finalists for the School Board Director positions.
3) a State Auditor's Office audit "entrance meeting" 

]]> Buzzsprout-14672968 Mon, 11 Mar 2024 18:00:00 -0700 1882 1 29 full false E28 - 15 Compete for 2 Empty School Board Seats E28 - 15 Compete for 2 Empty School Board Seats See our Show Notes.
Send errata and other notes to hello@seattlehallpass.org

In Episode 28 of Seattle Hall Pass, Christie and Jane talk about the 15 applicants vying for two vacant seats on the seven-person Seattle School Board. Christie and Jane also share audio statements from 12 of the 15 applicants, so listeners can hear from them directly.

]]> See our Show Notes.
Send errata and other notes to hello@seattlehallpass.org

In Episode 28 of Seattle Hall Pass, Christie and Jane talk about the 15 applicants vying for two vacant seats on the seven-person Seattle School Board. Christie and Jane also share audio statements from 12 of the 15 applicants, so listeners can hear from them directly.

]]> Buzzsprout-14614053 Sat, 02 Mar 2024 13:00:00 -0800 1897 1 28 full false E27 - "How are the children?" with Director Brandon Hersey E27 - "How are the children?" with Director Brandon Hersey See our Show Notes.
Send errata and other notes to hello@seattlehallpass.org

In Episode 27 of Seattle Hall Pass, Christie and Jane talk to Seattle School Board Director Brandon Hersey about monitoring the progress of SPS students toward the goals of 3rd Grade Reading, 7th Grade Writing, and College and Career Readiness.

We hope to have a Q&A session with Director Hersey in the future. Send a short voice memo or typed question to  hello@seattlehallpass.org.  Please include how you would like to be identified.

Correction: The “Profile of a Graduate” is from the State Board of Education, not the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), as stated in the audio.

]]> See our Show Notes.
Send errata and other notes to hello@seattlehallpass.org

In Episode 27 of Seattle Hall Pass, Christie and Jane talk to Seattle School Board Director Brandon Hersey about monitoring the progress of SPS students toward the goals of 3rd Grade Reading, 7th Grade Writing, and College and Career Readiness.

We hope to have a Q&A session with Director Hersey in the future. Send a short voice memo or typed question to  hello@seattlehallpass.org.  Please include how you would like to be identified.

Correction: The “Profile of a Graduate” is from the State Board of Education, not the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), as stated in the audio.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14558950 Fri, 23 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0800 2240 1 27 full false E26 - February 7 meeting - Two empty chairs, and a lot on the table E26 - February 7 meeting - Two empty chairs, and a lot on the table Please see our Show Notes.
Please send errata or other feedback to hello@seattlehallpass.org

Christie and Jane discuss the February 7, 2024 Seattle School Board meeting, focusing on the process to fill vacancies following the resignations of two board directors, district efforts related to Continuous School Improvement Plans, and an update on the legislative session.


]]> Please see our Show Notes.
Please send errata or other feedback to hello@seattlehallpass.org

Christie and Jane discuss the February 7, 2024 Seattle School Board meeting, focusing on the process to fill vacancies following the resignations of two board directors, district efforts related to Continuous School Improvement Plans, and an update on the legislative session.


]]> Buzzsprout-14510821 Fri, 16 Feb 2024 11:00:00 -0800 1751 1 26 full false E25 - Exit Interview with Lisa Rivera E25 - Exit Interview with Lisa Rivera In Episode 25 of Seattle Hall Pass, Christie and Jane interview Lisa Rivera, who served on the board for four years before she resigned on January 30, 2024.

Check out the Show Notes.

]]> In Episode 25 of Seattle Hall Pass, Christie and Jane interview Lisa Rivera, who served on the board for four years before she resigned on January 30, 2024.

Check out the Show Notes.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14453175 Tue, 06 Feb 2024 14:00:00 -0800 1649 1 25 full false E24 - Legislative Talk with Liza Rankin E24 - Legislative Talk with Liza Rankin In this Seattle Hall Pass episode, Christie and Jane interview Liza Rankin, discussing her roles as School Board President and Legislative Liaison. The conversation delves into legislative priorities, with President Rankin providing insights into the legislative process and the importance of community advocacy.

CONTENT WARNING: There is NO discussion of board director resignations or vacancies in this episode, as it was recorded in early January, 2024.

See our show notes for sources and much more information.

]]> In this Seattle Hall Pass episode, Christie and Jane interview Liza Rankin, discussing her roles as School Board President and Legislative Liaison. The conversation delves into legislative priorities, with President Rankin providing insights into the legislative process and the importance of community advocacy.

CONTENT WARNING: There is NO discussion of board director resignations or vacancies in this episode, as it was recorded in early January, 2024.

See our show notes for sources and much more information.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14440438 Sun, 04 Feb 2024 22:00:00 -0800 1312 1 24 full false E23 - EXTRA: Two Seattle School Board Directors Resign E23 - EXTRA: Two Seattle School Board Directors Resign Episode 23 of Seattle Hall Pass discusses the sudden resignations of School Board directors Vivian Song and Lisa Rivera. The episode delves into the factors leading to their departure, and touches on the significant impact of their exit. The episode provides insights from various stakeholders, reflecting on the directors' contributions and the broader implications for governance and representation in the Seattle Public Schools system.

See our show notes for sources and much more information.

]]> Episode 23 of Seattle Hall Pass discusses the sudden resignations of School Board directors Vivian Song and Lisa Rivera. The episode delves into the factors leading to their departure, and touches on the significant impact of their exit. The episode provides insights from various stakeholders, reflecting on the directors' contributions and the broader implications for governance and representation in the Seattle Public Schools system.

See our show notes for sources and much more information.

]]> Buzzsprout-14416861 Wed, 31 Jan 2024 16:00:00 -0800 1834 1 23 full false E22 - Legislative Update: School Funding, Special Education, and School Lunch E22 - Legislative Update: School Funding, Special Education, and School Lunch In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, Christie and Jane delve into developments shaping K-12 education in the 2024 Washington State Legislative Session. Tune in for a breakdown of these legislative developments and a preview of what to expect in the coming week. Topics covered include special education, school lunch, and more.

See our show notes for links to the committees, bills, and more. 

]]> In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, Christie and Jane delve into developments shaping K-12 education in the 2024 Washington State Legislative Session. Tune in for a breakdown of these legislative developments and a preview of what to expect in the coming week. Topics covered include special education, school lunch, and more.

See our show notes for links to the committees, bills, and more. 

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14365890 Wed, 24 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0800 1229 1 22 full false E21 - The 2024 Legislative Session begins E21 - The 2024 Legislative Session begins The Washington State legislative session started on Monday, January 8th. Jane and Christie talk through some of what is happening in Olympia that pertains to education.

Some topics include: the governor's budget, district funding bills, student mental health, restraint and isolation, special education, and gun responsibility.

Show notes

]]> The Washington State legislative session started on Monday, January 8th. Jane and Christie talk through some of what is happening in Olympia that pertains to education.

Some topics include: the governor's budget, district funding bills, student mental health, restraint and isolation, special education, and gun responsibility.

Show notes

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14323423 Tue, 16 Jan 2024 18:00:00 -0800 2539 1 21 full false E20 - School Shuffle Stories III - Olympic Hills, Orca, and Leschi E20 - School Shuffle Stories III - Olympic Hills, Orca, and Leschi Part III in our three-part series of on-the-ground stories from the "October shuffles" at SPS elementary schools, where teachers are moved between classes and buildings to match enrollment and class ratio requirements. In this episode, we interviewed: 

  • Jessica Warner-Grant, a parent at Olympic Hills Elementary in Lake City
  • Tyler Dupuis, a teacher at Orca K-8 in Columbia City 
  • Kevin Litwack, a parent at Leschi Elementary in the Central District

Part I - Dunlap
Part II - Adams and Cedar Park

See our show notes.

]]> Part III in our three-part series of on-the-ground stories from the "October shuffles" at SPS elementary schools, where teachers are moved between classes and buildings to match enrollment and class ratio requirements. In this episode, we interviewed: 

  • Jessica Warner-Grant, a parent at Olympic Hills Elementary in Lake City
  • Tyler Dupuis, a teacher at Orca K-8 in Columbia City 
  • Kevin Litwack, a parent at Leschi Elementary in the Central District

Part I - Dunlap
Part II - Adams and Cedar Park

See our show notes.

]]> Christie Robertson Buzzsprout-14272261 Mon, 08 Jan 2024 13:00:00 -0800 2259 1 20 full false E19 - School Shuffle Stories II - Adams and Cedar Park E19 - School Shuffle Stories II - Adams and Cedar Park In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we feature the second of a three-part series on the October shuffles at SPS elementary schools. Here, we interviewed parents at Sarah Nau at Cedar Park Elementary in Lake City and Cortny Helmink Adams Elementary in Ballard about how the upheaval affected their communities.

Part I - Dunlap

See our show notes.

]]> In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we feature the second of a three-part series on the October shuffles at SPS elementary schools. Here, we interviewed parents at Sarah Nau at Cedar Park Elementary in Lake City and Cortny Helmink Adams Elementary in Ballard about how the upheaval affected their communities.

Part I - Dunlap

See our show notes.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14249449 Thu, 04 Jan 2024 14:00:00 -0800 1797 1 19 full false E18 - School Shuffle Stories I - Dunlap E18 - School Shuffle Stories I - Dunlap In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we feature the first of a three-part series on the October shuffles at SPS elementary schools. We interview two parents (Nasirah Salaymane Craig and Alex Wakeman Rouse) and one teacher (Wil Depusoy) from  Dunlap Elementary school in Southeast Seattle about how the upheaval affected their community.

See our show notes. 

]]> In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we feature the first of a three-part series on the October shuffles at SPS elementary schools. We interview two parents (Nasirah Salaymane Craig and Alex Wakeman Rouse) and one teacher (Wil Depusoy) from  Dunlap Elementary school in Southeast Seattle about how the upheaval affected their community.

See our show notes. 

]]> Christie Robertson Buzzsprout-14231452 Tue, 02 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0800 2233 1 18 full false E17 - A conversation with Edmonds education advocates Nancy Katims and Andi Nofziger-Meadows on state funding E17 - A conversation with Edmonds education advocates Nancy Katims and Andi Nofziger-Meadows on state funding In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, Christie and Jane bring you a conversation with the President of the Edmonds School Board, Nancy Katims, and the President of the Edmonds Teachers Union, Andi Nofziger-Meadows. They organized a Multi-District Letter to State Legislators requesting that 44 percent of the $1.2 billion state budget surplus for 2024 be distributed to PK-12 education. The letter was co-signed by union leaders and school board presidents at a variety of other districts across the state.

See our show notes to see the letter and more primary sources of information. 

]]> In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, Christie and Jane bring you a conversation with the President of the Edmonds School Board, Nancy Katims, and the President of the Edmonds Teachers Union, Andi Nofziger-Meadows. They organized a Multi-District Letter to State Legislators requesting that 44 percent of the $1.2 billion state budget surplus for 2024 be distributed to PK-12 education. The letter was co-signed by union leaders and school board presidents at a variety of other districts across the state.

See our show notes to see the letter and more primary sources of information. 

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14184150 Wed, 20 Dec 2023 18:00:00 -0800 1806 1 17 full false E16 - Passing of the Gavel E16 - Passing of the Gavel This week we’re reporting on the first meeting of the newly elected School Board, on December 13, 2023.

The Board elected a new President, Vice President, and Member at Large.  Also, the board voted on the Budget Resolution, in which they authorize the superintendent on the cost-saving measures he can “consider and research” to close the $105 million budget gap.

See our show notes. 


]]> This week we’re reporting on the first meeting of the newly elected School Board, on December 13, 2023.

The Board elected a new President, Vice President, and Member at Large.  Also, the board voted on the Budget Resolution, in which they authorize the superintendent on the cost-saving measures he can “consider and research” to close the $105 million budget gap.

See our show notes. 


]]> Buzzsprout-14161269 Sun, 17 Dec 2023 14:00:00 -0800 1826 1 16 full false E15 - Art's Toolbox, aka The Budget Resolution E15 - Art's Toolbox, aka The Budget Resolution This episode of Seattle Hall Pass covers the Budget Resolution that will be voted on by the School Board on December 13. It provides a broad outline of mechanisms the district may explore to address the $105 million budget deficit for the 2024-25 school year. Jane and Christie touch briefly on the swearing in of the four School Board Directors who were elected on November 7. 

See our show notes.

]]> This episode of Seattle Hall Pass covers the Budget Resolution that will be voted on by the School Board on December 13. It provides a broad outline of mechanisms the district may explore to address the $105 million budget deficit for the 2024-25 school year. Jane and Christie touch briefly on the swearing in of the four School Board Directors who were elected on November 7. 

See our show notes.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14118610 Sat, 09 Dec 2023 19:00:00 -0800 2236 1 15 full false E14 - The Financial Policy & Exit Interview with Chandra Hampson E14 - The Financial Policy & Exit Interview with Chandra Hampson Christie and Jane interview outgoing Seattle School Board Director Chandra Hampson at the end of her four-year term. The focus of our conversation is the Financial Policy, co-authored by Hampson, that the Seattle School Board recently passed.

We also talk about PTA funding, the belief gap, community engagement, special education spending, and a potential financial audit.

See our show notes.

]]> Christie and Jane interview outgoing Seattle School Board Director Chandra Hampson at the end of her four-year term. The focus of our conversation is the Financial Policy, co-authored by Hampson, that the Seattle School Board recently passed.

We also talk about PTA funding, the belief gap, community engagement, special education spending, and a potential financial audit.

See our show notes.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-14061241 Thu, 30 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0800 2501 1 14 full false E13 - Facing Our Student Outcomes E13 - Facing Our Student Outcomes In our latest Seattle Hall Pass episode, we're confronting a critical issue: the focus on kids furthest from educational justice is so far not bearing fruit. More kids than ever are falling below proficiency for math and reading - goals set by the Seattle School Board as part of Student Outcomes Focused Governance. Despite the concerning trends, there's a silver lining: the district and the school board are addressing these challenges with open dialogue.


See our show notes.

]]> In our latest Seattle Hall Pass episode, we're confronting a critical issue: the focus on kids furthest from educational justice is so far not bearing fruit. More kids than ever are falling below proficiency for math and reading - goals set by the Seattle School Board as part of Student Outcomes Focused Governance. Despite the concerning trends, there's a silver lining: the district and the school board are addressing these challenges with open dialogue.


See our show notes.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-13999567 Sun, 19 Nov 2023 14:00:00 -0800 1639 1 13 full false E12 - EXTRA: The Superintendent's Tightrope E12 - EXTRA: The Superintendent's Tightrope This episode of Seattle Hall Pass has some breaking news — we have a preview of the fiscal stabilization plan to be presented at the School Board Meeting on Wednesday, November 15, that was sent to us by an anonymous source. This plan maps how the superintendent is advising that the district should address the structural budget deficit for future years. 

DRAFT Fiscal Stabilization Plan - "Direction for 2024-25 & 2025-26 Fiscal Stabilization Plan to Create a System of Well-Resourced Schools"


]]> This episode of Seattle Hall Pass has some breaking news — we have a preview of the fiscal stabilization plan to be presented at the School Board Meeting on Wednesday, November 15, that was sent to us by an anonymous source. This plan maps how the superintendent is advising that the district should address the structural budget deficit for future years. 

DRAFT Fiscal Stabilization Plan - "Direction for 2024-25 & 2025-26 Fiscal Stabilization Plan to Create a System of Well-Resourced Schools"


]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-13967594 Mon, 13 Nov 2023 21:00:00 -0800 690 1 12 full false E11 - The Financial Policy, feat. Director Song E11 - The Financial Policy, feat. Director Song This episode of Seattle Hall Pass covers the Financial Policy that will be voted on at the November 15, 2023, school board meeting. In the first part of this episode, Christie and Jane will give a high level summary of the Financial Policy. And then School Board Director Vivian Song joins us for a great discussion about her proposed amendment to the policy. 

See our show notes 

]]> This episode of Seattle Hall Pass covers the Financial Policy that will be voted on at the November 15, 2023, school board meeting. In the first part of this episode, Christie and Jane will give a high level summary of the Financial Policy. And then School Board Director Vivian Song joins us for a great discussion about her proposed amendment to the policy. 

See our show notes 

]]> Buzzsprout-13958972 Sun, 12 Nov 2023 20:00:00 -0800 1949 1 11 full false E10 - A Community Sunset E10 - A Community Sunset Jane and Christie cover the Seattle Public Schools board meeting on October 25th.

  • The community engagement committee is sunsetting after 13 meetings. They completed some "one pagers" about board-community engagement but did not finish a full plan or toolkit.
  • The legislative agenda for the upcoming state legislative session was introduced. Priorities include special education funding, transportation funding, supports for students of color, and allowing more capital funding to be used for operating costs.
  • Progress monitoring, a key part of the Student Outcomes Focused Governance model, was not done at this meeting or the prior one. The board is supposed to spend 50% of meeting time on progress monitoring.
  • Board directors discussed possible criteria for deciding which schools to close, including size, proximity to other schools, transportation costs, and unique programs/populations.
  • The next meeting on November 15th will likely include the district's plan for cutting the 2024-25 budget. The new board will join at the following meeting in December.


For sources on the facts cited in the podcast and other supporting documentation, see our show notes here.

]]> Jane and Christie cover the Seattle Public Schools board meeting on October 25th.

  • The community engagement committee is sunsetting after 13 meetings. They completed some "one pagers" about board-community engagement but did not finish a full plan or toolkit.
  • The legislative agenda for the upcoming state legislative session was introduced. Priorities include special education funding, transportation funding, supports for students of color, and allowing more capital funding to be used for operating costs.
  • Progress monitoring, a key part of the Student Outcomes Focused Governance model, was not done at this meeting or the prior one. The board is supposed to spend 50% of meeting time on progress monitoring.
  • Board directors discussed possible criteria for deciding which schools to close, including size, proximity to other schools, transportation costs, and unique programs/populations.
  • The next meeting on November 15th will likely include the district's plan for cutting the 2024-25 budget. The new board will join at the following meeting in December.


For sources on the facts cited in the podcast and other supporting documentation, see our show notes here.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-13942957 Thu, 09 Nov 2023 16:00:00 -0800 1610 1 10 full false E9 - Interview with Ron Davis E9 - Interview with Ron Davis Jane and Christie interview Ron Davis, a candidate for Seattle City Council, District 4

]]> Jane and Christie interview Ron Davis, a candidate for Seattle City Council, District 4

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-13856142 Fri, 27 Oct 2023 07:00:00 -0700 2123 1 9 full false E8 - There Is Not a List! E8 - There Is Not a List! This episode of Seattle Hall Pass covers the October 17 Budget Work Session, the second in a set of 10 meetings that will span the entire school year.

Some of the topics covered are:

  • Why Seattle Public Schools needs to cut $105 million
  • Cost-saving ideas being tossed around
  • Potential criteria for school closures and consolidations
  • The budget-planning timeline, and how the election will play into that
  • An initial report on the key takeaways from the Well-Resourced Schools community meetings 


For sources on the facts cited in the podcast and other supporting documentation, see our show notes here.

We want to hear from our listeners. Email us with comments, questions, or corrections at hello@seattlehallpass.org.

]]> This episode of Seattle Hall Pass covers the October 17 Budget Work Session, the second in a set of 10 meetings that will span the entire school year.

Some of the topics covered are:

  • Why Seattle Public Schools needs to cut $105 million
  • Cost-saving ideas being tossed around
  • Potential criteria for school closures and consolidations
  • The budget-planning timeline, and how the election will play into that
  • An initial report on the key takeaways from the Well-Resourced Schools community meetings 


For sources on the facts cited in the podcast and other supporting documentation, see our show notes here.

We want to hear from our listeners. Email us with comments, questions, or corrections at hello@seattlehallpass.org.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-13821014 Sat, 21 Oct 2023 19:00:00 -0700 2099 1 8 full false E7 - "How to Break a School" E7 - "How to Break a School" This episode of Seattle Hall Pass is part 1 of 2 that covers the October 11 School Board Meeting (part 2 is coming soon). In protest of the 40 elementary schools that are being disrupted so that the district can comply with a state-mandated student-teacher ratio, public comment was full of parents, teachers, and union staff sharing their thoughts with the district. 

Christie and Jane also share why they think it’s important for “our district” to listen to criticism from the people on the ground.
 
For sources on the facts cited in the podcast and other supporting documentation, see our show notes here.

We want to hear from our listeners. Email us with comments, questions, or corrections at hello@seattlehallpass.org.


]]> This episode of Seattle Hall Pass is part 1 of 2 that covers the October 11 School Board Meeting (part 2 is coming soon). In protest of the 40 elementary schools that are being disrupted so that the district can comply with a state-mandated student-teacher ratio, public comment was full of parents, teachers, and union staff sharing their thoughts with the district. 

Christie and Jane also share why they think it’s important for “our district” to listen to criticism from the people on the ground.
 
For sources on the facts cited in the podcast and other supporting documentation, see our show notes here.

We want to hear from our listeners. Email us with comments, questions, or corrections at hello@seattlehallpass.org.


]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-13777491 Sat, 14 Oct 2023 16:00:00 -0700 1793 1 7 full false E6 - The John Stanford Shuffle E6 - The John Stanford Shuffle In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we cover the recent teacher reallocations at elementary schools. We explain the upheaval at elementary schools, as Seattle Public Schools shifts teachers and students among classes in order to be compliant with a state law.

For sources on the facts cited in the podcast and other supporting documentation, see our show notes here.

We want to hear from our listeners. Email us with comments, questions, or corrections at hello@seattlehallpass.org.

]]> In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we cover the recent teacher reallocations at elementary schools. We explain the upheaval at elementary schools, as Seattle Public Schools shifts teachers and students among classes in order to be compliant with a state law.

For sources on the facts cited in the podcast and other supporting documentation, see our show notes here.

We want to hear from our listeners. Email us with comments, questions, or corrections at hello@seattlehallpass.org.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-13735172 Sat, 07 Oct 2023 16:00:00 -0700 1020 1 6 full false E5 - Seattle Loves Our Trans Kids E5 - Seattle Loves Our Trans Kids In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we cover the September 27 Seattle School Board Meeting. Because five anti-trans activists signed up for public comment, the Seattle Public Schools community came out in droves to support Seattle’s LGBTQIA+ youth. We share audio clips from many of the pro-LGBTQIA+ commenters. Christie and Jane also report on the Ad Hoc Policy Committee’s work.

For sources on the facts cited in the podcast and other supporting documentation, see our show notes here.

We want to hear from our listeners. Email us with comments, questions, or corrections at hello@seattlehallpass.org.

]]> In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we cover the September 27 Seattle School Board Meeting. Because five anti-trans activists signed up for public comment, the Seattle Public Schools community came out in droves to support Seattle’s LGBTQIA+ youth. We share audio clips from many of the pro-LGBTQIA+ commenters. Christie and Jane also report on the Ad Hoc Policy Committee’s work.

For sources on the facts cited in the podcast and other supporting documentation, see our show notes here.

We want to hear from our listeners. Email us with comments, questions, or corrections at hello@seattlehallpass.org.

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-13693891 Sun, 01 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0700 1745 1 5 full false E4 - Closures Loom Amid Budget Deficits E4 - Closures Loom Amid Budget Deficits In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we cover the first budget work session of the year. Christie and Jane talk about the new Deputy Superintendent Art Jarvis, projected budget deficits, school closures and consolidations, and a proposed new financial policy.

For sources on the facts cited in the podcast, see our show notes here.


]]> In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we cover the first budget work session of the year. Christie and Jane talk about the new Deputy Superintendent Art Jarvis, projected budget deficits, school closures and consolidations, and a proposed new financial policy.

For sources on the facts cited in the podcast, see our show notes here.


]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-13643531 Sat, 23 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700 2139 1 4 full false E3 - Monitoring Outcomes, Community Input E3 - Monitoring Outcomes, Community Input In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, Christie and Jane share their thoughts on the meeting and also discuss the superintendent’s evaluation tool, student outcomes-focused governance, and why they think it’s important for the board to listen to community.

For sources on the facts cited in the podcast, see our data sheet here. 


]]> In this episode of Seattle Hall Pass, Christie and Jane share their thoughts on the meeting and also discuss the superintendent’s evaluation tool, student outcomes-focused governance, and why they think it’s important for the board to listen to community.

For sources on the facts cited in the podcast, see our data sheet here. 


]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-13617008 Tue, 19 Sep 2023 12:00:00 -0700 1911 1 3 full false E2 - Back to School - Inclusion in Focus E2 - Back to School - Inclusion in Focus In our second episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we cover the school board meeting on August 30, 2023. Christie and Jane share their thoughts on the meeting and also discuss universal design learning, labor relations, and the school district’s budget. 

For sources on the facts cited in the podcast, see our data sheet here. 

]]> In our second episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we cover the school board meeting on August 30, 2023. Christie and Jane share their thoughts on the meeting and also discuss universal design learning, labor relations, and the school district’s budget. 

For sources on the facts cited in the podcast, see our data sheet here. 

]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-13573677 Mon, 11 Sep 2023 18:00:00 -0700 1880 1 2 full false E1 - Well-Resourced Schools E1 - Well-Resourced Schools In our first episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we will be reporting on the in-person community meetings about Well-Resourced schools that Seattle Public Schools hosted in August. Christie and Jane share the community’s feedback and also discuss possible school closures, special education funding, and the school district’s budget. 

For sources on the facts cited in the podcast, see our data sheet here. 


]]> In our first episode of Seattle Hall Pass, we will be reporting on the in-person community meetings about Well-Resourced schools that Seattle Public Schools hosted in August. Christie and Jane share the community’s feedback and also discuss possible school closures, special education funding, and the school district’s budget. 

For sources on the facts cited in the podcast, see our data sheet here. 


]]> Christie Robertson & Jane Tunks Demel Buzzsprout-13500180 Wed, 30 Aug 2023 13:00:00 -0700 2226 1 1 full false