Deanna Phillips

The board meeting addressed various administrative and operational matters. Discussions included closed session items such as pupil personnel cases, litigation, and labor negotiations. Action was taken to appoint a new assistant principal. A representative from the California School Employees Association addressed the board regarding concerns over budget cuts, layoffs, and proposed compensation increases for leadership. The board also received a presentation on the District English Language Advisory Committee (DELAC), covering progress on English learner reclassification, academic performance metrics, chronic absenteeism, and the expansion of the dual language program.

This Local Control and Accountability Plan for the Apple Valley Unified School District outlines the strategic direction for the 2026-27 school year, detailing how funds will be used to support all students, with a particular focus on high-needs student populations. The plan centers on three main goals: fostering a safe and nurturing learning environment, increasing overall student achievement in key areas such as third-grade reading and ninth-grade math, and enhancing family and community engagement. It aims to improve student well-being, academic outcomes, and college/career readiness through targeted interventions, professional development, and community partnerships.

The meeting featured the recognition of student representatives from High Desert Premier Academy, Apple Valley High School, and Granite Hills High School for their contributions during the school year. Student representatives shared highlights from their respective campuses, including events like grad night, sports achievements, athletic signing days, and various academic award recognitions. Furthermore, outgoing student representatives introduced their incoming counterparts for the next school year, and shared personal reflections on their high school experiences and future plans.

The board meeting centered on discussions regarding district financial management, oversight, and transparency. Key topics included concerns over district fiscal stability, the impact of budget decisions on classified staff and students, and the evaluation of short-term borrowing proposals. The board also addressed internal governance issues, including parliamentary procedures, as well as the recognition of various school programs, employee achievements, and heritage observances.

This ESSER III Expenditure Plan outlines how the Apple Valley Unified School District intends to utilize its federal funds to mitigate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The plan focuses on three main strategic areas: ensuring continuous and safe in-person learning through facility upgrades and health measures, addressing lost instructional time via extended learning opportunities and intensive interventions, and utilizing remaining funds for class size reduction, increased instructional support, enhanced supervision, improved substitute accessibility, and expanded mental health services. The overarching objective is to address students' academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs, and to close opportunity gaps exacerbated by the pandemic.