Laura Cantú

This Local Control and Accountability Plan for the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) outlines a strategic direction to provide equitable access to high-quality instruction and comprehensive student supports for vulnerable student populations. The plan focuses on three key goals: ensuring all students have equitable access to 21st-century education and resources for college and career readiness; providing multi-tiered systems of support for mental health and social-emotional well-being to decrease suspensions and increase student engagement; and assigning necessary support, including fully credentialed teachers, to close opportunity gaps and improve performance on statewide assessments and English proficiency. It aims to improve outcomes for historically underserved student groups, including those with disabilities, foster youth, English learners, and socioeconomically disadvantaged students.

The Board conducted a study session on charter schools and received updates regarding educational events, literacy programs, and student competition achievements. Formal recognitions were held for Classified School Employee Week and regional spelling bee winners. Key actions included the approval of institutional memberships for the upcoming fiscal year and the granting of a renewal petition appeal for a charter school. The Board also presided over several interdistrict attendance appeals, rendering decisions on each case.

The board meeting included several public hearings regarding the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) 2026-27, the annual budget and service plans for the LACOE SELPA, and the preliminary County School Service Fund budget. Key presentations covered the LCAP draft, the office's preliminary budget, and updates on board policies concerning student records and directory information. The board approved consent items, including the distribution of forest reserve and flood control funds and a resolution recognizing the Superintendent for her service. Additionally, the board adopted resolutions approving a material revision to the Magnolia Science Academy-5 charter, revisions to Head Start Policy Council bylaws, and a short-term cash loan program for school districts.

The meeting featured board member and superintendent updates, including recognition of teachers of the year and African American heritage celebrations. Public hearings were held regarding the disposal of textbooks and instructional materials and an appeal for a charter school renewal. The board discussed and approved policies, including Board Policy 5145.13, and accepted various project funds and in-kind donations. Several resolutions were adopted to recognize upcoming commemorative days in March, such as Read Across America Day, World Disability Day, and Women's History Month. Additionally, the board deliberated on the renewal petition for Ingenium Charter Middle, ultimately voting to continue the item to a future meeting, and received reports on legislative proposals and salary increases.

The board meeting covered a wide range of educational and administrative topics, including updates on recent events such as the Civic Showcase, early childhood career development initiatives, and various professional education conferences. The board formally recognized students involved in the STEM Math and Science competition and outdoor marine science studies. Administrative actions included the adoption of resolutions designating June as both LGBTQIA+ Pride Month and Immigrant Heritage Month, as well as the acceptance of in-kind donations. The board also voted to deny an appeal regarding the renewal petition for the California Creative Learning Academy Middle School and approved a resolution concerning the assignment of delinquent tax receivables. Finally, the board conducted closed session proceedings to render decisions on multiple interdistrict attendance appeals.