Torrance Unified School District

The agenda for the meeting included the approval of eligibility lists for several classified positions, such as Behavior Support Assistant, Instructional Assistant, and Technology Support Specialist. There was also an item regarding the approval of a change to the meeting schedule. Information items included job announcements for a Credential Analyst and Custodian Trainer, along with a schedule for future regular commission meetings.

The meeting included staff presentations and discussions primarily focused on construction updates related to Measures Y & Z. Key topics covered the completion of modernization projects at six elementary schools, work on West High School modernization (including gymnasium/auditorium construction), and status updates on Middle School gyms (Jefferson, Kazmir, Richardson). The team also addressed ongoing punch lists and DSA certifications for various projects. Other agenda items included the installation of student lockers, which experienced some initial lock malfunctions that have since been rectified, and the installation of safety and security cameras at several sites. A delay in installing the single-point access control system at Sheri South High and Fern due to specialized hardware and permits was noted. Furthermore, the resurfacing of stadium tracks and fields was reported as completed ahead of schedule, utilizing Sprinturf product. A future topic for discussion was the visitor management system quote.

The regular board meeting was conducted via teleconference pursuant to Governor's Executive Order N25-2020 due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The agenda was adopted, and a public hearing was held regarding the increase of statutory school fees imposed on new development projects. Another public hearing addressed the board's initial response to the Torrance Teachers Association's proposal for 2019-2020 contract negotiations. A significant portion of the meeting involved discussion and consideration of the employment agreement for Dr. Timothy H. Stowe as the interim Superintendent. Numerous written comments were received expressing disappointment and concern over the perceived rushed process and lack of public discourse surrounding the interim superintendent appointment, highlighting potential conflict of interest and unfair advantage for Dr. Stowe if he applies for the permanent role. Stakeholders requested the vote be delayed until a proper, transparent process could be conducted.

The meeting included an organizational segment involving the election of new officers for President, Vice President, and Clerk, as well as the appointment of the Superintendent as Secretary to the Board. Key discussions involved a staff presentation from the Torrance Education Foundation regarding the expansion of summer school programs, the launch of college essay workshops for high school seniors, and ongoing interest solicitation for 2018 summer school teaching positions. A report from the Torrance Council PTAs highlighted local and state PTA scholarships for college-bound students and the Sacramento Safari program for high school students to engage with lawmakers. Student representatives reported on activities at West High School, including the cross-country team's state championship win and subsequent parade, and ASB activities such as the Mix Center and Powder Puff game. Additionally, student leaders from Anza Elementary School presented on the Character Counts program, and students from Jefferson Middle School introduced the Multimedia Club, detailing its function in real-world job experience simulation. A formal public hearing was held regarding the statutory school facility fees and alternative/reportable fees for fiscal year 2016-2017. A teacher provided testimony expressing frustration regarding the rollout of the new Power School grading program, citing inadequate training just before the school year began.

The meeting focused on providing construction updates for Measures Y and Z projects. Towers Elementary School and Riviera Elementary School projects are nearing completion (97th percentile) with rededication ceremonies scheduled shortly. Yukon Edison, and Jefferson projects are in the bidding phase, with construction scheduled to start in June. West High School and Richardson Middle School projects are in the initial planning phases, with site investigations ongoing. The main action item addressed the siting of a new Aquatic Facility. Several existing sites (Griffith, Hamilton, Levy, and Sherry sites) were evaluated based on criteria including parking capacity (targeting over 400 cars for 500+ seating), footprint size (approximately 66,000 square feet), proximity to residential areas, and traffic impact. The Sherry site was highly recommended by the architect due to its existing large parking lot, major arterial access, and ability to accommodate all program requirements, including relocation of district shelters grounds and one softball field.