Melanie Allen

The meeting included closed session discussions regarding labor negotiations, public employee discipline/dismissal/release/complaint, and potential litigation. Following open session, the board heard reports from high school student representatives. Key presentations included a report from the Military Liaison and a presentation by Dannis Woliver Kelly on construction delivery models. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Superintendent's overview of the draft Fiscal Stabilization Plan, which noted the necessity of identifying approximately $4 million in ongoing reductions due to systemic challenges and staffing costs. Public hearings and subsequent action items involved the dedication of a public utility easement to Pacific Gas and Electric Company (Resolution #25/26-12), approval of the Annual Independent Financial Audit for Fiscal Year 2024-2025, approval of a 3-year agreement with A Kennedy Group for Measure A Bond Program support services, and approval of a resolution amending the employer contribution for retiree medical and hospital care (Resolution #25/26-13).

The Board of Education, with an 8-0 approval on the consent agenda, adopted a resolution proclaiming February 2026 as Black History Recognition Month and another resolution designating an authorized agent to sign school orders from February 2026 to December 2026. Key approvals included replacing outdated school radios with a modern communication system for a cost not exceeding $289,532, and the purchase and installation of play structure equipment at the Marina Child Development Center for a cost not exceeding $266,068.39. The Board also selected Board Member Veronica Miramontes to serve as the CSBA Delegate Assembly representative. Discussions included receiving information on the district's Draft Fiscal Stabilization Plan, with action extended to a meeting on March 3, 2026. Additionally, the Board reviewed and discussed board policy and administrative regulation 1445 regarding a response to immigration enforcement and received high school student reports.

The report from Marina High School detailed several upcoming and recent events. Highlights included the kickoff of spirit week leading up to the Sadie Hawkins Dance, which will feature sales of fruit cups, agua fresca, and roses. Senior nights were scheduled for girls' basketball, girls' soccer, and boys' basketball teams. Awards were distributed to students who achieved a certain GPA after the first semester, noting a record number of freshmen recipients. An upcoming rally will feature winter sports teams and the reveal of the prom theme. Additionally, several cadets will attend Cadet Corps Leadership Training for skill development.

The report highlighted current activities at Monterey High School, including Valentine's Spirit Week culminating in a Day of Love craft festival. Spring Sports have commenced, and Senior Nights for Winter Sports were scheduled for the week. The student-directed production of "And Then There Were None" successfully concluded. A team of students participated in the California "We the People" Civics competition, placing 6th in the state. The Mock Trial Team competed in the Monterey County Mock Trial Competitions, with several students earning special recognition. Furthermore, planning is underway for the second annual Golden Folk Benefit Concert on February 22nd to support the Music Program.

The Fiscal Stabilization Plan for Monterey Peninsula Unified School District addresses systemic financial challenges including a structural deficit, declining enrollment, cost escalation, and expiring COVID relief funding. The plan outlines necessary reductions while prioritizing classroom instruction, vital programs, and direct student services. It aims to ensure long-term fiscal solvency and continued student achievement by maintaining strategic investments in areas such as academic support, student wellness, and special education, while also implementing targeted staff reductions and reverting some staffing levels to pre-COVID allocations.