Nidia Acosta

The meeting focused primarily on providing feedback from focus groups conducted for the superintendent search update. Nine focus groups, totaling 100 participants including students, parents, teachers, administrators, and community members, provided input on desired characteristics for the next superintendent, communication expectations, and district strengths and challenges. Key themes emerging across groups included the need for strong instructional leadership with a clear vision, consistency in implementation, limited change, long-term commitment, and a focus on truly equity-centered decision-making. Stakeholders strongly emphasized the need for the next leader to be visible, accessible, approachable, and a strong relationship builder with high emotional intelligence to foster trust and collaboration. Concerns were also raised regarding academic consistency across schools, curriculum alignment, organizational structure clarity, and the need for data-informed decision-making.

The meeting began with a roll call and public comment from a transgender student expressing significant concerns regarding the maintenance, reliability, and safety of the gender-neutral bathrooms at Julian, noting issues with cleanliness and prolonged closures. Following public comments, acknowledgements were made to the buildings and grounds team for their work during extreme cold and snow, and appreciation was shown to staff and families for their flexibility during an e-learning day. The core instruction team then provided an update on K5 math initiatives, focusing on the selection process for Tier One mathematics curriculum, which is centered around the theme "The Joy of Discovering Mathematics." They detailed grounding their work in best practices, equity policy, and specific research texts, including a pilot program comparing Amplify Desmos Math and Bridges in Mathematics resources in selected schools. Professional learning and collaborative planning sessions for teachers involved in the pilot were discussed, along with the seven criteria used for resource evaluation, which emphasize conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and application.

The meeting commenced with public comment focused on the structure of youth sports in middle schools, specifically addressing high numbers of students trying out for sports like volleyball and basketball and advocating for expanded team opportunities rather than immediate cuts. The Superintendent provided an update highlighting the strong start to 2026 with staff institute day focused on connection, collaboration, and care, including dedicated time for staff wellness. Updates included the timeline for student registration for kindergarten and new/returning students beginning January 21st and 28th, respectively. Librarians presented on the 'One Book, One District' initiative, featuring the book "Wedgie and Gizmo" for most students, and "How Rocket Learned to Read" for PK/EC families, emphasizing literacy and community building through shared reading, activities, and an upcoming virtual author visit. A presentation followed regarding the acceleration process, reviewing the State-Mandated Acceleration process window (March 2nd to April 24th for acceleration in any subject/grade) versus the Access to Algebra pathway, detailing the evaluation criteria based on the Accelerated Placement Act of 2019, emphasizing fair and objective student evaluation, and broad communication efforts.

The primary focus of this special business meeting was to provide an update on the Superintendent Search. The update detailed feedback gathered from nine focus groups conducted the week of December 9, 2025, regarding desired characteristics for the next superintendent, such as strong instructional leadership, commitment to equity, and community connection. Key next steps in the search process were outlined. Additionally, the Board conducted an action item to approve a bid for the Brooks elevator modernization project, awarding the contract to Otis Elevator Company for $158,834.

The meeting included an executive closed session followed by an open session. A public hearing was held regarding the 2025 tax levy recommendation, which was subsequently approved. District updates were presented on Student Services K-8 Overview, the Evaluation of Coaches process, and the Summer 2026 Bid Review and Master Facilities Plan Update. Action items included the approval of the Consent Agenda, the appointment of an Interim Superintendent from January 1, 2026, through June 30, 2026, and the approval of the 2025 Tax Levy recommendation (3.3% above the prior year). The Board also approved a contract for Danielson Group training services exceeding $25,000. Board remarks included discussions on the ongoing Superintendent search, planned special meetings, and committee updates regarding Sustainability, Collaboration for Early Childhood, OPEF rebranding, and English Language Learners models.