Calistoga Joint Unified School District

The meeting began with a notification that a recording was being made and instructions for accessing Spanish interpretation. Actions taken in closed session included the vote to release and reassign a certificated administrator for the 2026-2027 school year, and the decision not to reelect certain probationary certificated employees for the same year. The board recited the Pledge of Allegiance and heard the district mission statement. Public comment included a parent expressing disappointment over an experience at Kalistoga Elementary School, leading to homeschooling their child, and concerns about the handling of the child's belongings upon departure. A midyear Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) report was presented, detailing progress on four goals: academic achievement, safe and healthy environment, parent engagement/communication, and specific focus on Palisades attendance/connection. Financial updates noted that budget expenditures were ahead of schedule for three out of four goals. The board also received confirmation that the first interim financial report was approved by the County Office of Education, and that the 2024-2025 audit report had no findings. Reports covered student representative activities, including Valentine spirit week, receipt of the bilingual literacy medal, winter sports recognition, and plans for student engagement activities like weekly sports, a student gear shack, and a movie/field day. Reports from the Kalisoga Elementary and Junior Senior High School principals detailed LCAP goal progress, including math discourse presentation, MAP testing, reading difficulty screener results, participation in the Great Kindness Challenge, playground equipment installation, and preparations for testing and course selection.

The meeting commenced with roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the reading of the district mission statement. Key discussions included public comments regarding the senior night basketball event on February 10th, which also featured a presentation for a student reaching the 1,000-point club and a halftime performance by young children. Major agenda items involved an information and discussion session on the CJUSD facilities master plan update, which was last completed around 2020, followed by the first reading of updates to board policies and administrative regulations (Bylaws 114, 9100, 9323, and 9140) concerning district-sponsored social media, board organization, meeting conduct, and board representatives. Finally, the board received a report and recommendations from the 7-Eleven committee regarding surplus property advisory, specifically focusing on the Gallas property, which the committee unanimously recommended be declared surplus due to declining enrollment projections and existing district capacity surplus.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a review of the district mission statement, which emphasizes empowering students with respect, empathy, integrity, and necessary life and work skills. Public business included a comment from an individual regarding the annual Gan Duffy tournament, detailing the schedule and its function as a major winter sports fundraiser. Key agenda items involved nominations and appointments for the 2026 governing board president and clerk. The board also discussed and adjusted the proposed 2026 meeting schedule, notably moving the April meeting date to March 30th to avoid conflict with Spring Break/Coast to Coast events, and set the date for the December meeting based on election certification timelines. Reports covered student representative updates, including spirit activities, PSAT/SAT testing completion, discussion of ALCAP testing standards showing areas for improvement (especially attendance), and the selection of two students for study abroad programs supported by local Rotary clubs. The teacher association report noted they would address negotiations later. The elementary school principal reported on LCAP goal one by discussing feedback gathered from staff regarding mathematics leadership and the development of a student-centered vision statement supported by external coaching, and detailed upcoming holiday concerts and spirit week activities. For LCAP goal two (safe/healthy environment), updates included the success of the Kindergarten/TK concert and plans for a community music event and spirit week. Furthermore, initial discussions were held concerning challenges with pickup and drop-off logistics at the elementary school, leading to increased patrolling in the area.

The board meeting included a food service presentation, which highlighted free and reduced counts, meal participation, and the district's collaboration with local farmers for organic produce. The board also reviewed the Williams settlement, which confirmed compliance in instructional materials, facilities maintenance, data accuracy, and uniform complaint procedures. Additionally, there was a discussion about the student board representative position, considering options for a second high school student or involving seventh and eighth graders to increase student voice. The board also discussed proposed meeting dates for 2026 and board policies and administrative regulations.

The board meeting included discussions and a selection process for a dual language immersion provider. The team recommended moving forward with California Bilingual Education (CABE), highlighting their experience, detailed services, and support for teachers, students, and parents. The selection process involved an RFP, evaluation of proposals, and interviews to ensure a good fit and financial feasibility. The chosen provider is expected to support the dual language program and the English-only component, with staff and parents already familiar with the organization.