Katie Fisher

Key discussion topics during the meeting included the approval of the School Calendar for the 2026-2027 academic year. The Superintendent provided a mid-year update on the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP), emphasizing progress in strengthening student data systems using DIBELS and i-Ready to monitor student growth and guide instruction, particularly for vulnerable student populations. The Director of Maintenance, Operations and Safety, along with a representative from AECOM, gave updates on Facilities Modernization Projects, noting completed work at Strawberry Point and Tam Valley. Additionally, the Board reviewed and discussed draft resolution language for a potential parcel tax measure proposed for June 2026, which aims to extend an existing tax and add a concurrent one, with requested revisions before further action.

The meeting covered several key areas including public comment and union reports. The Mil Valley Teachers Association (MBTA) representatives emphasized the necessity of reaching a satisfactory agreement on Article 21 (salary and benefits) before the parcel tax campaign, noting that current compensation struggles due to rising costs impact teacher retention and support for the tax measure. The California School Employees Association (CSEA) reported they are working with the district to review and potentially reclassify job descriptions, many of which are over ten years old. In business and financials, the first interim budget update was presented, reflecting revisions to revenues and expenditures through the end of October. Key financial discussions involved a slight decrease in projected property tax revenues, an alignment of federal funding allocations, a significant increase in other state revenues due to one-time TK funding, and shifts in expenditures showing lower projected salaries and benefits (offset by higher contract costs for unfilled mandated positions like counselors and instructional assistants). The board also heard public comments concerning poor KASP scores and the need to reinvest resources into academic standards improvement via the supplemental parcel tax reintroduction.

The Regular Board Meeting included discussions and actions across several areas. Under Personnel, the Board received re-openers for negotiations with the Mill Valley Teachers' Association for the 2026-2027 school year, following a required public hearing. In Business & Financial matters, the Board approved the 2025-2026 Budget Revisions and the First Interim Financial Reports, reflecting the financial status as of October 31, 2025. Regarding Facilities, the Board certified the Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and approved Alternative 5 for the Mill Valley Middle School Reconstruction Project, which involves renovating the existing main building and gym, and establishing an interim campus at the current site for the two-year construction period. Additionally, the Board approved contract increases for preconstruction services related to temporary housing and authorized environmental consulting services for the modernization project. During the Annual Organizational Meeting, the Board elected the President and Vice-President/Clerk for 2026 and approved liaison assignments and meeting calendars.

The board meeting included public comments on non-agenda items, with speakers discussing community involvement in issues such as TK funding, middle school progress, and the importance of a parcel tax for sustainable school district funding. Updates were provided on visual arts at the elementary level, including upcoming art shows and student artwork displayed at community events. Discussions also covered the continuation of the TK program, the upcoming parcel tax renewal, and the budget deficit facing the district. The board also discussed the calendar for the 2627 school year, including considerations for interim housing during the MBMS modernization project.

The meeting included discussions and reports on various topics. The board approved settlement by unanimous vote in the case of student and the Mil Valley School District. The terms include $25,000 in reimbursement for educational expenses. The board has approved a settlement in the case of student and the Mil Valley School District. The terms of the settlement include reimbursement of $28,000 for educational expenses and $7,500 for parent legal fees. There was discussion of the Mil Valley Middle School modernization project and the environmental impact report (EIR). There were public comments regarding the seismic risk and the threat posed by the sea level rise.