Kaitlin Benson

The meeting included discussions on various topics such as the introduction of Community Outreach Specialists, recognition of National History Day winners, and reports from the Merced City Teachers' Association and California Employees Association. The board addressed human resources matters, including resolutions related to the Human Resources Executive Officer position and transitional kindergarten units. Presentations were given on the Center for Model Schools Partnership and Novak Education for UDL Training. Reports covered the State of the District, KNN Public Finance, the Citizen's Bond Oversight Committee, and MCSD Learning Plans. The board also discussed and approved items related to legal services, gifts, grants, bequests, classified employee week, revisions to board policies, architect proposals, literacy plans, contracts with Learning Genie and UC Merced, and summer STEM academies.

The 2024-2025 School Plan for Student Achievement (SPSA) for Rudolph Rivera Middle School aims to improve academic achievement in language arts and mathematics, and foster a safe, culturally responsive learning environment. The plan addresses identified needs based on California School Dashboard data, including low performance in ELA and math, high suspension rates, and chronic absenteeism, particularly among specific student subgroups. Strategies include professional learning communities (PLCs) focused on implementing a guaranteed viable curriculum (GVC), school-wide AVID implementation, Response to Intervention (RtI2) programs using Read 180 and other math interventions, extended learning opportunities, and enhanced student data analysis. Measurable outcomes include improved CAASPP scores, increased DPA performance, higher EL reclassification rates, reduced chronic absenteeism, and lower suspension rates.

The board meeting included closed sessions to discuss personnel matters, including discipline, performance evaluations, and labor negotiations. A student expulsion case was also addressed in closed session. The open session featured reports on closed session actions, community outreach specialists introductions, and student spotlights. Public comment included concerns about underserved students, school safety, and library book content. Reports were given on ESSER funding, instructional updates, and various contracts, including those with the City of Merced Parks and Recreation Department, Students with Aspiring Goals, and Twisters Volleyball Club. Board policies were reviewed and approved, and various budget and personnel items were addressed.

The board meeting covered various topics, including personnel matters such as accepting resignations and approving employment contracts. Financial reports were presented, including the 2020-2021 Annual Audit Report and the Governor's budget proposals. Academic achievement reports were reviewed, along with updates on the Independent Study Program. Public comments addressed vaccination mandates, masking policies, teacher librarian staffing, and compensation for promoted employees. The board also took action on several construction projects, approved the issuance of bonds, and discussed 8th-grade graduation ceremonies.

The board meeting included closed session discussions on student expulsion, personnel matters, and real property negotiations. Open session highlights included presentations on student achievements, a school showcase, and reports on attendance, behavior support, and district priorities for 2019-2020. The board also addressed behavior issues at Muir Elementary School, approved various consent agenda items including personnel changes, and made decisions on several financial and construction matters. Discussion of district priorities for 2019-2020 included a review of the preschool-grade 3 reading fluency plan and public comments regarding LCAP funding allocation.