Donna Castelli

The meeting featured school showcases from Falcon Academy, detailing its STEAM focus and Positive Behavior Intervention System, and Brea Junior High, which presented on data-driven decision making and student needs response. Student reports covered activities at Brea Junior High, Brea Olinda High School (including successful CIF performances for Cheer), and Brea Canyon High School. Assistant Superintendent Cary Johnson presented on Post Secondary Enrollment, Persistence, and Career Technical Education data trends. The board reviewed the 2024-25 Audit Report and received a Facilities Update, leading to action to schedule a Study Session on March 2 regarding Measure H projects including Brea Junior High Modernization and Falcon Academy MPR. The Superintendent reported on a recent Staff Development Day, the grand opening of mini WellSpaces across the district (making the district the first in Orange County to offer wellness spaces TK-12), HOSA competition success, and CIF State Championship for BOHS Cheer.

The meeting featured presentations from the Brea Lions Club and Brea Rotary, who donated $4,000 to the Brea Olinda High School Golf Program. Monthly recognitions included acknowledging Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Digital Citizenship Week, National School Bus Safety Week, Red Ribbon Week, and National School Psychology Week. Board members reported on various activities, such as the installation of new Apple computers at BOHS, an upcoming election candidacy for the CSBA Delegate Assembly, the joy surrounding the Anatomage Unveiling event, updates on the Brea Education Foundation Gala, discussions concerning a supportive housing development project near Brea Junior High, and gratitude for back-to-school night events. Student representatives reported on school activities including athletics, Hispanic Heritage Month, and Homecoming events. The Superintendent's Report included PBIS Recognitions for seven schools, an overview of the recently released 2024-25 CAASPP results showing performance above state and county averages, and the implementation of the state-mandated Multitudes Early Literacy Screening for first and second graders. The report also recognized the Wildcat TV students for their video on the Anatomage Table and expressed gratitude for Assistant Superintendent Dr. Valerie Rogers as she moves to a new role.

The meeting included the presentation of a plaque by the Mojave Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution to Brea Junior High for historical preservation. The Board formally approved the appointment of Dr. Joshua Porter as Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, noting his extensive educational background. Board member reports covered updates on technology upgrades, potential partnerships involving North Orange ROP, a CSBA Delegate Assembly candidacy, and appreciation for recent school events like the Anatomage Unveiling. Student reports highlighted school activities, including athletics and cultural events. The Superintendent Report detailed PBIS Recognitions for seven schools, noted that BOUSD continues to perform well above state and county averages on CAASPP results, and announced the commencement of the state-required Multitudes Early Literacy Screening for first and second graders. The Superintendent also recognized the Wildcat TV students for their video production and formally thanked outgoing Assistant Superintendent Dr. Valerie Rogers.

The Board Study Session focused on reviewing and discussing long-term facilities needs for the District, particularly at Brea Olinda High School (BOHS), to prioritize projects supporting student safety, accessibility, and program needs. The discussion included an overview of available funding sources, such as Fund 40 (Deferred Maintenance), Measure H bond funds, and the Hope Fund. Staff detailed Measure H allocations for various sites. Key direction provided by the Board included approvals for artificial turf at the Stadium ($1.25 million), stadium seating replacement ($3 million), Main Gym improvements (including floor replacement and cooling fan installation), improvements to the Performing Arts Center (PAC), and upgrades to student restrooms. The Board also directed staff to pursue improvements for the pool and tennis courts, possibly utilizing H.O.P.E. Funding, and requested further review on projects such as security cameras, technology infrastructure upgrades, and field improvements.

The meeting highlighted the swearing in of Angela Sohn as the new Student Board Member for the 2025-2026 school year. The Brea Education Foundation presented donation checks to support Brea Junior High Robotics, Brea Online Academy, and Brea Olinda High School Golf. An update was provided on heat safety protocols for athletics, including the use of the Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) device to ensure safe practice and competition during high temperatures, referencing updated CIF bylaws. Additionally, a detailed overview was presented regarding extensive facility upgrades completed across various BOUSD schools over the summer, such as new flooring, irrigation systems, and renovations, funded in part by the Children Youth and Incentive Capacity Grant.