Santa Ana Unified School District

The board conducted a study session focused on the 2025 California School Dashboard, specifically reviewing key academic indicators including English language arts, mathematics, English learner progress, graduation rates, and college and career readiness. The discussion included the foundational purpose of these metrics as lagging indicators, the importance of aligning district goals such as early literacy and English learner progress with state indicators, and the necessity of maintaining a balanced instructional approach that prioritizes content standards over teaching solely to standardized tests. The board also clarified definitions for student subgroups like homeless and socioeconomically disadvantaged populations to enhance understanding of student data.

The board meeting served as a governance workshop aimed at strengthening board governance, clarifying roles and expectations for both the board and the superintendent, and improving communication and team functioning. The session focused on alignment, discipline in board roles, and strategies for effective and respectful board meetings centered on student results and community trust. Participants also engaged in a discussion regarding best practices for governance, agenda management, and the board's responsibilities in setting district direction and priorities.

The meeting included the appointment of an assistant principal at Santa Ana High School and a coordinator of special education. The Superintendent recognized the board for Board Appreciation Month, shared a positive testimonial from a parent regarding student support services, and honored two employees of the month. The board also addressed the recent renaming of Guzman Elementary and formally introduced two new student board members. Public comments were received concerning the support of students with dyslexia.

The board discussed administrative reassignments, the appointment of new personnel to coordinator and assistant principal roles, and the approval of two settlement agreements. The superintendent provided reports on Lunar New Year celebrations, employee of the month recognitions, and staff introductions. During public comment, concerns were raised regarding the exclusion of counselors from agreements, the need for equitable access to after-school sports for students in specialized programs, declining enrollment, the impact of school choice policies, and the potential loss of teaching positions due to enrollment management decisions.

The board conducted its annual organizational meeting, which included the election of a new president, vice president, and clerk. Action was taken in closed session to appoint several individuals to key district positions, including director of budget and accounting, director of special education, coordinator of student achievement, and manager of budget. Additionally, the board approved a resignation agreement for a certificated employee. The council established the meeting schedule for the upcoming calendar year, emphasizing a focus on policy, student outcomes, and community priorities.