Mandi Bilyou

The meeting, which included a public hearing, addressed significant financial and structural issues driven by declining enrollment, specifically noting a drastic drop in newcomer students from 354 to 2 year-over-year, resulting in an overall enrollment loss of nearly 500 students. Key discussion points focused on financial stewardship, estimating a $6 million shortfall based on per-child funding. The administration presented recommendations for consolidation and closure actions, including the closure of Valencia, to achieve long-term financial stability and preserve student programs. The presentation also detailed plans for phased implementation, facility modifications (particularly at Westwood for a K8 model), and the continuation of essential newcomer supports through community partnerships. Family feedback highlighted challenges with transportation logistics for children attending separate schools (CLA and Westwood) and a desire for K8 continuity, which the potential board action aims to address.

The meeting served as the first of two required public hearings regarding proposed district restructuring, which includes potential school boundary changes and/or school closures, pursuant to ARS 15-341.32 and 37. The presentation focused on process and rationale, connecting data and stakeholder feedback (staff and family input) to the evaluation of options based on student/family experience, workforce/operational stability, and financial stewardship/district capacity. Key discussion points included the impact of declining enrollment, partially attributed to immigration-related mobility, and the specific circumstances surrounding Valencia Newcomer School. Cabinet recommended the consolidation of Choice Learning Academy (CLA) and Westwood beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, and the closure of Valencia Newcomer School, integrating its programming into existing English language learner supports at each site. These actions are projected to create approximately 1.4 million in recurring annual capacity by addressing underutilized facilities and structural cost misalignment. The board will vote on potential school closures at the February 12, 2026, meeting.

The public hearing addressed the procedural steps, including a call to order, public participation guidelines, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a moment of silence. A key discussion point was the Board Consideration of District Restructure, which involved potential school boundary changes and/or school closure, presented by Dr. Maes due to enrollment decline. During public comment, several individuals spoke regarding the potential closure of Valencia Newcomer School, including parents, students, and representatives from ASU's R.I.S.E. club and other organizations. The procedural section concluded with the Board scheduling a subsequent legal process hearing for potential school closure(s) to be held on February 12, 2026, and adjournment.

The meeting commenced with procedural actions, including the adoption of the agenda. The election of 2026 Governing Board Officers was tabled until a future meeting. Key discussions included presentations on the All In Education Parent Academy Graduates and student recognition. The Board reviewed the District Winter Benchmark Assessment data, leading to concerns regarding student proficiency levels. Public comment addressed declining enrollment and the need for Spanish translations. The large Consent Agenda approved various items, including personnel actions, staff and board travel, student travel requests, MOUs with New Pathways for Youth and Chicanos Por La Causa, Contract Service Agreements for Exceptional Student Services, approval for lactation spaces at two locations, payroll vouchers, and acceptance of gifts and donations to the Alhambra School District. Business items included the approval of a Maricopa County School Superintendent Garnishment Resolution, acceptance of a Governing Board Member resignation, and revision of the 2026-2027 AESD District Calendar, which carried a fiscal impact. Policy DJE (Bidding/Purchasing Procedures) was approved on its second reading. Board members requested future agenda items concerning retreats, student recruitment updates, legislative updates, budget workshops, and clarification on exit interview data policy. The Superintendent provided updates on professional growth workshops, support for birth to five learners, and noted recent federal funding cuts.

This parent workshop highlights a core priority of the Alhambra Elementary School District's 5-Year Strategic Plan: empowering families by building their capacity to support student learning and achievement. The plan emphasizes authentic family engagement by providing tools, resources, and workshops, maintaining open communication, and encouraging consistent home routines for academic success, effort, perseverance, and confidence, particularly in preparation for statewide assessments.