Deborah M Cortez

This Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) for the 2026-27 school year outlines how Carmel Unified School District will strategically utilize Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) and other funds to serve its students. The plan is structured around three primary goals: fostering challenging and innovative learning experiences to prepare students for future endeavors; promoting personal wellness through supportive and engaging school environments; and ensuring staff receive high-quality professional learning to achieve academic and social-emotional objectives. A key focus is to increase and improve services for high-needs student groups, including foster youth, English learners, and low-income students, aiming to reduce disparities in opportunities and outcomes through meaningful engagement with educational partners.

The strategic focus for Captain Cooper Elementary School for the 2024-2026 academic cycle is to support and expand challenging learning experiences that address the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs of all students. The plan aims to achieve this through implementing specific curricula such as i-Ready mathematics and Orton Gillingham literacy, fostering socio-emotional development via the Second Step program, and providing specialized enrichment classes in arts, science, and outdoor education. The school is committed to forming responsible, confident, and collaborative learners by maintaining strong community connections and a safe learning environment.

The strategic plan, titled 'CUSD Forward', outlines the Carmel Unified School District's direction from 2025 to 2030. It is built upon four key focus areas: Student Achievement & Instruction, Student and Staff Safety and Wellness, Engaged Families & Community Partners, and Optimized Resources. The plan aims to cultivate individual excellence, promote academic success, personal growth, and future readiness, create a supportive and inclusive learning environment, enhance collaboration with families and the community, and ensure efficient and equitable resource utilization to meet current and future needs.

The Carmel Unified and North Monterey County Unified School Districts held a joint town hall to discuss independent study programs available for students. The discussion included the importance of independent study options, the district partnership, and details about North Monterey County's program. The process for transferring students from Carmel Unified to North Monterey County was also addressed. The need to offer independent study options for students who feel their health is at risk by returning to in-person instruction.

The Local Control and Accountability Plan for Carmel Unified School District serves as a roadmap to enhance student outcomes and well-being. It focuses on three main goals: fostering challenging and relevant learning experiences for college and career readiness, promoting personal wellness through supportive school environments, and ensuring high-quality professional learning for staff. The plan aims to improve academic achievement, reduce chronic absenteeism, support mental health, and strengthen instructional practices for all students, with particular attention to English Learners, socioeconomically disadvantaged students, and students with disabilities, through data-informed strategies and educational partner engagement.