East Whittier City School District

The board meeting commenced with reports that no action was taken in closed session, followed by the flag salute led by the student board member. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to recognizing the District Employees of the Year for the 22-23 school year: Scarlett Torres (Administrator of the Year), Suleima Corona (Classified Employee of the Year), and Andrew Sansoni (Teacher of the Year). Board members shared congratulations and reflections on their service. The student board member presented observations and suggestions regarding student PIN number distribution for free lunch access and potential safety concerns related to end-of-school-day dismissal procedures. Board members also provided updates on attending back-to-school events, noted the passing of the former Director of Maintenance and Operations, and discussed information regarding hate crime reporting resources (2-1-1) and federal updates from Congresswoman Linda Sanchez. The Superintendent's team presented an overview of the summer efforts, including the large Summer Academy, enrichment academy in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club, professional development training, and preparations made by the Maintenance and Operations team for the new school year.

The meeting began with introductions, including the student board member. A major part of the agenda focused on recognizing certificated staff members who achieved tenure status, celebrating their completion of the two-year probationary period. Board members and the Superintendent echoed congratulations, noting the significance of achieving tenure. Discussions by the CSCA representative included no formal comment, while the EWE President provided information regarding the district's budget health, noting reserves exceeding the recommended cap under the current Test One funding level dictated by Proposition 98. The Superintendent's comments covered participation in community events like the Whittier Chamber of Commerce golf tournament, the launch of the first leadership academy for staff, expansion of music and art instruction via the broad course of study, and plans for an extended learning opportunity program and maker spaces.

The meeting featured several recognitions, including student council representatives, the classified employee of the year (Angela Serrano), the certificated employee of the year (Jessica Garcia), and employees reaching longevity milestones such as 25 years of service. Board members provided reports highlighting student activities, the EWCSD Leadership Summit, a water balloon event, and library read-aloud sessions. Representatives from the CSCA and EWEA shared concerns regarding potential layoffs of classified employees, the handling of student conduct issues including suspensions, concerns about teacher safety and classroom management, dress code issues, and the need for restroom improvements. There was also discussion regarding pending legislation potentially dismantling the Department of Education, updates on a speech contest, and an announcement about an upcoming Know Your Rights Zoom meeting hosted by Congresswoman Linda Sanchez.

The meeting commenced with a flag salute led by students from Ocean View Elementary School, Alba Hernandez Lasso and London Johnson. A significant portion of the session was dedicated to honoring school staff. Liana Cadena was recognized as Teacher of the Year, noted for her significant contributions, including establishing the intervention Hub team, before moving to an assistant principal role in Placentia Yorba Linda. Des Ortiz was honored as the Classified Employee of the Year, recognized for her enthusiasm and support, particularly within the Hub team. The principal of Ocean View presented updates on the school's theme 'Catch the Wave,' highlighting the welcoming of 45 new students, implementation of the MTSS framework, new student grouping structures (Red Tide, Brave Waves, etc.), participation in digital cyber safety sessions for parents, and the initiation of a Garden Club with composting efforts supported by a district grant. Board members offered congratulations and comments regarding upcoming school activities like fall festivals and mentioned the introduction of girls' flag football as a new CIF sport.

The meeting included a report out of closed session, during which the Board of Education approved the employment of Carlos Pena as the Director of Business Services. The flag salute was conducted by students from Evergreen Elementary, who also presented on the school's culture of positivity, accountability, and inclusion, highlighting their Roar program, which emphasizes respect, owning actions, safety, and responsibility. The meeting also recognized Patricia Montenegro as Evergreen's certificated employee of the year and Susan Dreiley as the classified employee of the year.