Berkeley Unified School District

The meeting, conducted online, included the establishment of a quorum with 12 voting members present and the approval of the agenda by unanimous consent. Key discussions involved updates from the Superintendent's Budget Advisory Meeting. The committee proceeded to approve the 2024-25 BSEP & BERRA Annual Report. Further agenda items included a presentation on the 2026-27 Annual Plan Process and Materials, as well as a presentation regarding recommendations for BSEP Funds in 2026-27 focusing on High Quality Instruction and Class Size Reduction.

The meeting agenda focused on several critical areas concerning student outcomes and engagement. Discussions included Berkeley High School's attendance systems and the implementation of Restorative Justice practices as an alternative to punitive discipline. The Office of Family Engagement & Equity (OFEE) presented on the services provided to families, such as food security support and advocacy, while noting budget constraints leading to reduced staffing. Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways across different educational levels were highlighted, emphasizing a focus on high-skill sectors and equity initiatives. Finally, a detailed budget update covered uncertainty in Prop 98 funding and the fiscal impact of expiring one-time grants on programs supporting unduplicated students. Key action items involved encouraging survey completion, advocating for OFEE's impact, and planning for formal recommendations regarding LCAP supplemental spending priorities.

Washington Elementary's vision outlines its long-term direction to be a caring, creative, and connected community. Key strategic areas for student development, referred to as 'Rhinos,' include Identity, Ideas, Integrity, Inclusivity, and Impact. This vision is reinforced by core values: Respectful, Open, Allies, Responsible, and Safe, aiming to ensure every student 'ROARS!'.

The meeting began without establishing a quorum, proceeding by fiat. Key discussions included comments from the Co-Chair, presentation of BUSD Annual Planning Survey informational slides by the Director of Local Resources, presentation of the Draft 2024-25 BSEP & BERRA Annual Report, and updates on 2025-26 BSEP Measure E1 Fund Balance. A planned item regarding the 2026-27 Annual Plan Process and Materials was deferred to the next meeting. The meeting concluded with general discussion and adjournment.

This annual report details the implementation and expenditures of the Berkeley School Excellence Program (BSEP) Measure E1 and the Berkeley Educator Recruitment and Retention Act (BERRA) Measure E for the 2024-25 academic year. BSEP Measure E1 focuses on high-quality instruction through small class sizes, professional development, classroom support, program evaluation, and expanded course offerings, alongside 'Essentials for Excellence' in libraries, arts, and instructional technology, and 'Effective Student Support' through counseling and student achievement strategies. BERRA Measure E is dedicated to enhancing educator compensation, recruitment, retention, and professional development. The report outlines program goals, project statuses, and metrics for these initiatives.