Robert H. Downey

The meeting commenced with a roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance. Key agenda items included the adoption of the agenda and the superintendent's report, which covered welcoming prospective employees at a job fair, announcing the winners of the MUSD spelling bee, congratulating the Business Department on achieving the Certification of Excellence in Financial Reporting for Fiscal Year 2025, highlighting student participation in the State of the District luncheon, and noting the participation of two middle schools in the Future Cities Regional Competition. The board officially welcomed a new member, Lisa Garcia. Governing board members shared reports, referencing attendance at the spelling bee, the State of the District luncheon, and an African-American affairs conference. A significant portion of the meeting involved recognizing community members, employees, students, and student athletes with Spotlight awards, as well as Rotary student awards. The information item featured a classroom spotlight presentation from the Principal of Pima But Elementary School regarding their Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) program and its alignment with the MUSD strategic plan and Portrait of a Graduate skills.

The public hearing segment focused on the proposed revision to the fiscal year 2026 budget, necessitated because the actual enrollment growth resulted in lower than projected Average Daily Membership (ADM) figures, triggering a mandatory revision. Discussion clarified that the budget revision involves adjustments due to changes in one-time funding factors and a reduction in ongoing revenue, though the existing expenditure plan remains stable due to conservative planning and healthy reserve balances, avoiding mid-year spending reductions or personnel cuts. The subsequent meeting included a superintendent's report highlighting recent positive activities such as a volunteer appreciation breakfast, a large-scale pumpkin pie distribution to staff, a wellness fair, a DECA market fair showcasing student entrepreneurship, and the recognition of three educators selected to present at a mathematics conference. The board president also delivered a farewell address, marking his last meeting after serving for four years, including three as president, noting his intent to travel and pursue life coach education.

The meeting commenced with roll call and adoption of the agenda. Key discussions included the Superintendent's report, which highlighted an upcoming job fair, the recognition of an educator receiving the special educator rising star award, and student participation in the future cities competition. The board also celebrated schools with improved attendance. Following board member reports, there was a public comment period regarding the scheduling of the Maricopa High School graduation date for 2026. Action items included the approval of the personnel schedule, which involved discussions about staff resignations and ensuring adequate coverage. The board also sought approval for an above-threshold furniture purchase for the Alma Ferrell Innovation Academy, clarifying that the purchase was under budget but required board review due to the amount. Finally, the board discussed rescheduling the February 11th meeting due to a conflict with the State of the City event.

The meeting commenced with the roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the adoption of the agenda. The Superintendent's report highlighted several key district activities, including a cornerstone ceremony for the new K8 number one school, confirming construction is on schedule and within budget. Nutrition education classes were held at Santa Rosa Elementary, featuring a visit from Buckus Broccolini. The report also detailed numerous athletic achievements, such as state meet placements, football playoff advancements, and cheer championships. Recognition was given to school staff, including the principal of Santa Cruz Elementary for an award, and the retirement of a long-serving School Resource Officer. Furthermore, the district celebrated improvements in the 2025 Arizona Department of Education A to F school letter grades, with Pimabute Elementary regaining its A rating and other schools showing measurable growth. The governing board members provided reports emphasizing engagement in district sports events and community activities. The meeting included extensive recognition segments for Spotlight Employees, Spotlight Students, Spotlight Student Athletes, and Rotary Students, acknowledging their dedication and achievements across the district.

The meeting included reports from the superintendent and governing board members. The superintendent's report highlighted a partners' luncheon, recognition of MUSD's innovation in educational technology, and awards and nominations for teachers, schools, and principles. The board also recognized community members, employees, students, and student-athletes.