Marguerite Armstrong

The Board discussed and approved various items, including contract negotiations for the 2025-2026 school year with the Newhall Teachers Association and Newhall Employee Support Professionals, which include a 2.0% salary increase and a one-time payment. The Board also reviewed and approved single plans for student achievement for Wiley Canyon and Valencia Valley elementary schools, authorized an instructional field trip for emergent bilingual students, discussed the potential refinancing of general obligation bonds, approved the purchase of copiers and a new contract with Konica Minolta, and approved various Human Resources policies and a master contract with Aya Healthcare Inc.

The board approved a special education master contract for children with autism, individual school plans for student achievement, and the second interim budget report. Key business items included authorizing the purchase of security authentication keys, initiating a request for proposal for a new facilities master plan, and approving exterior painting bids for three elementary schools. Additionally, the board approved a commemorative plaque design for the family theatre, passed a resolution regarding biennial board member elections, and updated several personnel-related board policies and administrative regulations.

The Board discussed various administrative and operational matters, including potential litigation, labor negotiations, and personnel issues during a closed session. Key actions taken included the acceptance of the 2024-2025 Audit Report, the approval of a contract with AT&T for the transition to digital telephone lines, and the adoption of updated Comprehensive School Safety Plans. Additionally, the Board approved agreements for the State Preschool program, including a partnership with Mad Science, a BrainPop subscription for Old Orchard Elementary, and a consulting contract for staff development at Meadows Elementary. Policy updates related to complaints were approved, as was a resolution regarding the reduction of hours for a classified employee position.

The meeting served as a District Open House. The key activities included a welcome and acknowledgments to representatives from various district programs and site councils. Following the opening remarks, the meeting proceeded with scheduled breakout sessions covering Transitional Kindergarten, English Language Arts, Music and Art Programs, and Math.

The Regular Board Meeting commenced with a closed session where the Board approved a settlement agreement for a Special Education Due Process Case, agreeing to fund educational services and attorneys' fees not exceeding $27,595.00. The Board also unanimously approved the employment of Theresa Abbene as Assistant Principal. In open session, the agenda was approved. Board Member Solomon recognized numerous students for their achievements in the national PTA Reflections Program across various categories including Music Composition, Visual Arts, Literature, and Photography. Superintendent Hernandez recognized counselors during School Counselor Week. Key actions included approving a resolution recognizing National School Counseling Week (February 2-6, 2026) and approving a BrainPop subscription for Pico Canyon Elementary. The Board also reviewed the required 2025-2026 Local Control Accountability Plan Mid-Year Monitoring Report. Several Board Policies and Administrative Regulations related to Business Services and Administrative Services underwent a first reading, with some approved and additional readings waived. The meeting was adjourned at 8:06 PM.