Claudia Alcantar-Mendoza

The Board of Education meeting included an open session and public comments on closed session agenda items. The Board conducted a roll call, recited the vision and mission statements, and received a report on closed session actions, including student expulsion and the approval of settlement agreements for educational claims. Additional business included the pledge of allegiance, review of meeting procedures, and the recognition of students of the month from Valley Oak High School, Napa Valley Independent Studies, and Napa High School.

The board meeting focused on several key items including the expulsion of a student and the appointment of new principals for Belair Elementary School and Phillips Elementary School. Additionally, the board recognized students of the month from Napa Valley Adult Education and New Technology High School, highlighting their academic achievements and contributions. A representative from the Napa Valley Educators Association also addressed the board, expressing gratitude for the district's financial stability and noting ongoing negotiations regarding working conditions.

The committee meetings focused on various topics related to English Learner education. Key discussion items included the review of English language support strategies and ELPAC feedback, the development of artificial intelligence guidelines for family engagement, and progress updates on the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP). Additionally, the committee addressed district safety enhancements, updates to school cell phone policies, the dissemination of scholarship and tutoring program information, the reaffirmation of support for immigrant families, and the election process for new executive committee members.

The committee discussed the first and second phases of school renovations, including upgrades to roofing, HVAC systems, exterior painting, and campus modernization projects. Additional topics included the potential sale of Harvest Middle School, the recording of future committee meetings, and an informative session regarding the nature and objectives of the committee. The committee also reviewed opportunities for twelfth-grade English learner students regarding college applications, financial aid, and scholarship programs. Furthermore, members deliberated on and approved initial modifications to the committee's bylaws, focusing on committee structure and eligibility criteria, and scheduled an extraordinary meeting for November.

The meeting commenced with acknowledgments of remote participation by two trustees due to childcare and recent surgery. Key discussions included reporting on closed session items, which involved the recommendation and subsequent unanimous approval for the expulsion of three students (01226A, 012220260, and 01 22 222026 ZC). Additionally, the board approved a personnel recommendation, appointing Dustin Walker as the Director 2, Food Services Director, effective January 13, 2026. The board also approved three settlement agreements to resolve a student's educational claim. During the open session, the agenda was amended to move a presentation item. The meeting featured recognition of students of the month from Valley Oak High School (Cody Greer and Matthew Ulan Chakon) and Napa Valley Independent Studies (Alexis and Juliana Ceros). Public comments on non-agenda items received via email concerned SDC program changes, wellness counselors, student behavior, and support for the dual immersion pathway.