Calbright College

The Board of Trustees discussed several action items, including the California Community College Trustees board election and the acceptance of sunshine items for collective bargaining with the California School Employees Association. Additionally, a new strategic partnership with North Orange County Continuing Education was introduced, focusing on expanding access and improving outcomes for adult learners through distance education instructional models, credit for prior learning mapping, and streamlined student support services.

The board meeting covered several key operational and administrative topics. Discussions included budget advocacy and legislative updates, the appointment of a new vice president, and upcoming negotiations for collective bargaining agreements with the Calbright Faculty Association and the California School Employees Association. The president highlighted new strategic partnerships with North Orange Continuing Education and the launch of an apprenticeship network, as well as the implementation of the Student Journey 2.0 initiative to improve student support and outcomes. Additionally, the board recognized the service of an outgoing member and addressed matters regarding public awareness of farmworker labor issues.

The Executive Committee meeting commenced with a review of meeting procedures and protocols. The President reported on the significant progress made in 2026, emphasizing dedication to adult learners and preparing for future sustainability amidst evolving labor market conditions, acknowledging the need for adaptability. Key agenda items included the discussion and authorization of layoffs for classified personnel and the non-renewal/non-appointment of certain educational administrators due to a lack of work and funds, contingent upon the final state budget allocation. The committee approved the consent agenda and took action in closed session regarding the non-renewal notice for a classified administrator. Furthermore, updates were provided on strategic initiatives, including partnerships with Kredlands for outcome data, a pilot program with the Monterey County Workforce Development Board, a community health worker pathway with SEIU UHW, and progress in the accreditation renewal process.

The Board of Trustees meeting commenced with a review of meeting procedures and protocols by the board liaison. Key discussions focused on the President's report, which highlighted the college's role in California higher education and acknowledged the team's work leading to a significant proposed budget investment from the Governor. The President also welcomed a new board member and noted the importance of student-centered education for working adults. Following the reports, the meeting proceeded to an update on Calbright's organizational planning and capacity design work, presented by the Academic Leadership Group (ALG), focusing on transitioning from a startup mindset to a scale mindset to ensure long-term viability. The board also acknowledged the organizing efforts of adjunct faculty and confirmed they do not oppose their representation pending action by PERB.

The meeting commenced with a review of meeting procedures and protocols, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Key discussions included the Board President's report, expressing gratitude for the year's work and noting the spirit of community during the recent all-hands meeting. The President's comments also focused on the need for Calbright's essential role in reskilling and upskilling working-age adults amidst economic uncertainty. The President's Co-Report emphasized the board's stewardship, the success achieved in 2025 by embedding a student-centered approach, and the strategic focus for 2026 on securing sustainable investment. The agenda included a closed session to discuss existing litigation (Haley v. Online Community College District). Action items involved the approval of a contract for Human Resources Consulting and Leadership Coaching services with SEAK for up to 600 hours between January 2026 and June 2026, not to exceed $135,000. Furthermore, several board policies (7230, 7240, 7250, and 7260) concerning classified employees, confidential employees, educational administrators, and classified administrators, respectively, were presented for a first reading to align with recent revisions and state codes, including a six-month probationary period requirement for classified employees. The meeting concluded with a presentation of the first quarter fiscal year 2026 budget update, covering July 2025 to September 2025.