Lana Berry

The meeting commenced with a Study Session presenting the 2026-27 Budget and Rightsizing Recommendations, which addressed a projected $12 million budget reduction and a 3% enrollment decline. Key discussions included the election of the Board President and Vice President for 2026. The Superintendent provided updates on upcoming events, recognition of staff and student achievements, and the opening of registration for the next school year. Discussions also covered an informational session on digital threats for parents and an update on the Superintendent Search. Action items approved the establishment of new job descriptions for Career Literacy Teacher and Coordinator of Security. The Board approved the 2026-27 budget reduction plan, with a caveat to re-evaluate the elimination of specific media and technology positions. Further action included approving an MOU with WestEd for the development of the Integrated Statistics and Quantitative Reasoning course, approving a pilot Intersession Program for student intervention, and approving HVAC control upgrades at multiple sites. Additionally, the Board approved contracts for new scoreboard and videoboard installations at several high schools.

The meeting began with an Executive Session to consider an appeal of a long-term student suspension. The Study Session featured a Health Services Update detailing staff roles, compliance requirements, and district data on health reports and screenings. Key discussions included recognition of the Perry High School Boys Beach Volleyball State Championship team and congratulating the Hamilton High School girls flag football team for achieving the number one national ranking, along with celebrating championships for three CUSD football teams. The Superintendent reported on CTA Independence receiving state recognition for improving English Learner proficiency rates, the success of the first Prevention Resource Fair, and positive activities at the Chandler CARE Center and Central Kitchen, including the Food and Nutrition Manager receiving the Aramark Eagle Award. A public hearing was conducted regarding the revised 2025-2026 Budget. Action items included the approval of the 2025-2026 District Annual Expenditure Budget Revision #2, approval of the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) of $41,989,861.00 with CORE Construction for the Hartford Sylvia Encinas Elementary Replacement Campus, and approval to contract with Mesa Energy Systems (EMCOR) for $1,302,974 for the Chandler High School HVAC Controls Upgrade. Information items included an update on the Superintendent Search, review of financial reports, and discussion of the Board Agenda Roadmap.

The TOPS program, standing for Talent Plus Opportunity Equals Promise, is designed for academically motivated or gifted students from first to sixth grade. It offers an accelerated curriculum and opportunities to solve real-world problems, fostering skills in technology, engineering, and critical thinking. The program aims to prepare students for a successful future by providing enriching experiences that address their academic needs and interests.

This document outlines the Chandler Unified School District's 'Journey to Excellence,' focusing on reimagining learning environments. It details four strategic goals: fostering innovative learning experiences, enhancing community engagement for personalized student growth, developing innovative and fiscally responsible organizational practices, and cultivating an inclusive culture. The plan emphasizes Learner-Centric, High Performance, Inclusive, and Trauma-Informed Design principles, alongside promoting agentic, cognitive, and relational engagement to achieve these objectives.

The meeting focused on reimagining learning environments, featuring introductions between CUSD and Orcutt | Winslow. Key discussion points included the Portrait of the Learner and the Journey to Excellence. The agenda also incorporated polling sessions related to learning outcomes and learning environments, followed by a dedicated discussion segment. The presentation detailed various design concepts, including High Performance Design (HPD) based on safety and cognitive science, Learner Centric Design emphasizing brain-based learning principles (like novelty and social learning), Inclusive Design, Trauma Informed Design, and various facets of engagement (Cognitive, Agentic, Relational). Pedagogy shifts were explored, contrasting traditional methods with Project-Based Learning (PBL) and Design-Based Learning, alongside the concept of Gamification. Professional development needs for educators were also outlined.