Cole Sampson

This document outlines the strategic planning process for the divisions of the Kern County Superintendent of Schools, which occurs every three years to assess current and future needs and adapt to evolving external landscapes. The plan defines five key organizational priorities: improving student growth, achievement, and accountability; maximizing service to clients and improving resource access; maintaining a cohesive, productive, and stable workforce; ensuring fiscal stability, integrity, and accountability; and providing responsive leadership as a community partner.

The General Council Meeting agenda included reviewing and approving the current agenda and the previous council minutes from February 4, 2026. Key discussion items included a presentation on Kern Health Systems, a review of the budget report, and action regarding the LPC Membership Certification form. Further discussions covered the ECCK 2024-2029 Strategic Plan, updates from Ad Hoc Committees, and information regarding KCSOS - P3 Alignment and Early Education. Additionally, the council planned to discuss the Public Policy Report concerning early learning and care legislation, and receive member reports.

This document provides an overview of the California State Seal of Biliteracy, an achievement recognizing high school graduates proficient in English and at least one other language. It highlights the educational, career, and cultural benefits of linguistic diversity and outlines the specific academic and language proficiency requirements for students to earn the seal. The Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) supports Local Educational Agencies in implementing this program, aiming to empower students to be bilingual, biliterate, and prepared for future success.

The meeting commenced after a closed session, during which it was determined that further investigation was needed regarding item 5.2.1 2.1 concerning historical documents and a potential agreement with Liberty Council. Consequently, that item was dropped from the agenda, leading to public comments being restructured. Public commenters expressed strong opposition to placing the Ten Commandments in public schools, citing constitutional violations and religious exclusion. One speaker also raised serious concerns regarding retaliation, alleged tampering of IEP documents, and lack of instruction for her autistic daughter following an accident. Another speaker requested that the language intended for a resolution regarding historical documents be attached as an addendum for review when the item is revisited. Subsequent public comments continued to focus on opposing the Ten Commandments resolution, emphasizing inclusivity, separation of church and state, and questioning the motives behind contracting with Liberty Council.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda and the minutes from the December 9, 2026 meeting, with revisions noted. Public comments were heard from five individuals. Information items included presentations on the California Teacher of the Year, PragerU Book Fair in a Box resources for the RISE Program, and an update on Camp KEEP. Action items involved the approval of the Consent Agenda, specifically graduation diplomas, and general business items regarding the 2024-2025 Annual Audit Report (which was removed), an annual resolution of support for the Mock Trial Competitions, and accepting/filing Williams Act Uniform Complaint Quarterly Reports. Board members provided extensive reports covering topics such as a positive review of a CAAT charter school, concerns regarding profanity during public comments, discussions on the First Amendment and fascism definitions, a judge's ruling reversal concerning parental notification of student gender transition, the value of practical life skills education like financial literacy, participation in statewide educational focus groups, and an update on a U.S. Supreme Court case regarding Title IX and gender in athletics. The board also discussed potential agenda items for the next meeting, including a resolution for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.