Kimberly Ertle

The meeting commenced with recognitions, including a superstar student named Oliver Medina for his academic drive, artistic talent (designing the sixth-grade shirt), and athletic achievement. The board also recognized its partnership with Horus Man, which supports student attendance initiatives through incentives like donuts. The student representative report was provided by Adrina Suarez, a new representative from Arrow High School. Updates were provided on school activities, including a new site-based art program at Cedar Grove, family engagement nights, and the success of the Arrow High School resource center and wellness center, which motivates students with special lunches for attendance. Charter Oak High School updates included an eighth-grade visit covering academic pathways, performing arts, and tasting culinary dishes, a remembrance walk, an academic rally, and recruitment night for the IB program. Student achievements in wrestling and choir were also noted. The Superintendent's report covered Black History Month and other February celebrations, emphasized collaboration across the district regarding facility needs, and detailed a productive meeting with Congressman Cisneros regarding federal funding, particularly for students with disabilities. The main agenda focused on the mid-year review of the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP). Discussions covered Goal One (College and Career Readiness), noting $36.4 million budgeted and $17.8 million expended for areas like staff retention, facility maintenance, and FAFSA completion (72%, a 13% increase). Goal Two (Increasing Academic Achievement) involved reviewing programs for special education, CTE, and English learners, with $6.5 million expended out of $21 million budgeted for the first half of the year. Key metrics for Goal Two showed positive increases, including a 13% rise in A-G completion rates and a 9% increase in English learner proficiency.

The meeting commenced with reports of action taken in closed session, specifically approving a stipulated expulsion agreement. Discussions included the presentation of Nathaniel Harms and Sophia Ferrar as distinguished students, recognition of community partners in education including Lauraai Kempky, Danny Morero, and the Big Lou Legacy Circle Football Booster Club officers (Pauline Vivo, Michelle Encas, and Lydia Alvarez). The superintendent provided updates on staff welcoming students back for the second half of the school year and acknowledged School Board Appreciation Month. Key presentations covered the required Williams audit findings, confirming sufficient instructional materials and exemplary facilities at two elementary school sites, and zero uniform complaints. A major presentation focused on the financial responsibility pillar, detailing the transition plan from temporary state/federal funds to a sustainable long-term fiscal plan, and plans for ensuring high-quality learning environments.

The meeting began with reporting out from close session, where the board voted to approve a settlement agreement in special education case SE2604. The governing board also reported on the annual performance evaluation of the superintendent, which resulted in a satisfactory rating for the period of January 1st, 2025, through December 31st, 2025. Key items discussed during the open session included board awards recognizing the historic achievements of the boys water polo team (league title, CIF championship, second in state), the CIF tennis final qualifier Joanna Vong for balancing academics and athletics, and the band in pageantry for winning back-to-back state championships. Organizational items covered the election of the board president (Dr. Christian Aguular) and vice president (Janette Flores). The board also conducted elections for representatives to the county committee on school district organization (Mr. David Rose elected) and approved several administrative resolutions, including filing a statement of facts for public agencies, certification of signatures, establishment of regular meeting dates, and authorization for the district superintendent to designate staff for signing reports.

The board meeting included recognition of students and partners in education from Willow Elementary, as well as recognition of student athletes from the volleyball and football teams. The student representative provided a report on activities and events at Willow Elementary and the high school, including sports updates, theater performances, and college application support. The superintendent expressed gratitude to staff and provided updates on an education roundtable with state legislators, where he advocated for ongoing support for school districts.

The meeting included recognition of a student, Leah Alvarado, for her achievements and dedication, as well as Israel Viegas, who was recognized as a star student for exemplifying the power of transformation. The board also honored Michelle Fiser and Mario Caldera as community partners for their contributions as crossing guards. Heather Rosselli provided a student report highlighting the exciting start to the school year, including the rooted to rise theme, a luau, and a football game at Sofi Stadium. Reports also covered Glenn's stellar start with teachers and the care team connecting with students, and mastering math as a top priority. RO program was also discussed.