001It is my great pleasure to bring the Tuesday, August 26, 2025 Elsagundo Unified School District Regular Board of Education meeting to order at 6 PM. At this time, I would like to invite Carlos to lead us in the >> Please rise. Place your right hand over your heart. Ready? Begin. >> To the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for it stands nationy and justice for all. There was uh no action to report from closed session. And now we have the agenda hearing period and public communications. And I have three cards and I would first like to invite Angie Greenspan to come talk to us. >> Hello everyone. My name is Angie Greenspan and I'm here as a parent to share my concerns about how the district manages our afterchool program
002TLC with respect to space and staffing and ask that the board and the new leadership make this program and our children a priority. As a family that pays for TLC for two children, it often feels like it's treated as an afterthought. The teachers are wonderful, caring, committed, but they're not given the information, resources, proper facilities, or respect they deserve. As you all know, last year, two of Richmond's TLC classrooms were taken away to make room for Eagle's Nest during construction. I understand the need, but that decision displaced dozens of afterare students who also deserve real classrooms. But instead, our children were stuck in temporary spaces where they weren't allowed to touch or play with most of what was in their classroom. Try telling 30 kindergarteners they can't touch things in a classroom. My daughter's class
003spent their afternoons and the entire summer in a windowless basement-like room. My son's group spent last year and summer crammed into the Richmond Library, nearly 40 kids with strict instructions not to touch any books. The book areas were actually blocked off, which left only half of a library for them. Crafts not allowed in the library if they're messy. What a fun summer camp that must have been for them. Meanwhile, the cafeteria often sat empty last year, but for some reason, the TLC staff was told they were not allowed to use that space. This school year, those TLC buildings are still being used for Eagles Nest, so the lack of facilities continues. This sends a clear message. TLC doesn't seem to be a priority. The program also feels like it's understaffed. At various points last year,
004the third grade group at Richmond had almost 40 students with only one teacher and no consistent aid. That's not safe, and it's not fair to the lead teacher or the children. On top of that, there seems to be little to no oversight from the district. No one seems to be communicating or checking in with the TLC staff. The previous program director was nearly impossible to reach. I sent many emails. Most were not returned. And according to many TLC teachers I've had heart-to-hearts with because I love them. She didn't listen to their concerns either. Even this summer, teachers were being shuffled around campus having to move spaces with little notice. I'm talking like you're moving now. And many seemed exhausted at their wits end. And I don't blame them. Now, I understand there's a new person
005who might be running TLC. And I truly hope this marks a turning point, but it can't help him. It can't happen without the district's support. Please, please make TLC a priority. Our children deserve safe, adequate spaces after school. Our teachers there deserve respect and communication, and parents who are paying for this program deserve transparency and accountability. Thank you. >> Thank you, Angie. Um, I just remembered I forgot to read something before you spoke, but you don't have to speak again. >> I can do it even faster. >> No, you did amazing. The the board of education encourages community involvement and engagement. Members of the public are encouraged to attend board meetings and to address the board concerning any item on the agenda or within the board's jurisdiction. The board president may will invite citizens to
006speak either before or during the board's consideration of the item. U board bylaw 9323 states that an individual may be granted five minutes to make a presentation to the board for agenda for items on the agenda with the total time devoted to presentations to the board regarding items on the agenda not exceeding one half hour. Public comments and items on the agenda will be heard immediately preceding the board's consideration of the item. Um, I'm going to move on to the next speaker, which is Beth Katz. Thank you. Uh, hi. My name is Beth Katz. I'm the parent of two Richmond Street School students. I'd like to reiterate some of what Angie shared about the district's lack of attention and inadequate allocation of resources to the TLC program uh which my family has relied upon for
007the past four years. As a reminder, families pay tuition for TLC. It is not free nor does it serve external stakeholders. These are dedicated ESUSD teachers and students. In fact, for many students, TLC classes have constituted significant portions of their educational time at Richmond. My kids actually spent more time in their TLC classes than in their regular classes during their first years. In 2024, when the district decided to take over half of the TLC classrooms at Richmond, it did so without a long-term plan to accommodate the children and the teachers who would be displaced. The teachers were given days before the start of the school year to pack up and move to that windowless music room uh Angie described that my son shared with her daughter. And this past summer, it happened again during camp
008when the TLC classes had to move multiple times with little notice. The third grade camp group, which had to share half of the library with the first and second grade group, was not even allowed to eat at the lunch tables because, as my child explained, that's where the other camps ate. So, they ate on the floor. Those other camps included our own ed foundation camps. Why should the two district programs be treated differently? Again, this year, classes are crammed into the library, music room, and other scattered classrooms, while the auditorium or cafeteria remains empty and unavailable to our children in TLC. To be clear, having outdoor playtime is so vital for our kids. And I love how much outdoor time my fourth grader is getting, but they also need safe and comfortable indoor spaces and
009teachers who are provided with the resources they need to care for our children. So, I'd like to encourage uh the district along with its new leadership to come to our school and conduct a needs assessment, talk with our wonderful TLC teachers, observe how the program operates, then make an ongoing commitment to treating our children in TLC, not as an afterthought, but as a priority. Thank you. And thank you. And third, we have Christy Zean. >> I just lost my soul on my wedge. >> It's like great. Now I got to find some glue. Um, good evening, Dr. Johnson, President Glenn, and esteemed members of the school board. Uh, I'm Christy Zean, a retired educator with 17 years of service to Elsa to Elsa Gundo. I'm bringing to your attention a disservice to our students to
010have educational enrichment opportunities outside of the classroom. This summer, I had the privilege of taking a number of high school students to Rome in Athens, an educational trip. I was told by the admin during last school year I was not allowed to use morning announcements or post any flyers in the hallways to communicate this amazing educational opportunity for our students. I understood that. I stayed within those guidelines and communicated by word of mouth and I had a flyer up in my classroom. This year I'm offering another opportunity to Scotland, London, and Paris. And I was recently informed that an email went out to my colleagues that they were not allowed to even put up this tiny little flyer up in their room informing them of anformational meeting. I find this extremely sad to be blocked
011by the admin in that manner, especially since I'm aware of some other teachers that are trying to also create some trips uh opportunities for their students such as Spanish and Japan for technology. Now, these non-school sponsored trips, they're not a liability to the school and are arranged through educational companies who provide a comprehensive agenda packed with local guides who teach our students the history of what's before them. As many of you know, travel outside of the country affords our students a unique perspective and provides an appreciation and connection to what they are learning about in history and literature classes. Many years ago, many years ago, educational trips were offered at the high school, but in the last 22 years, there hasn't been any. I saw a need. I thought I would try and fill it.
012I think that it's important to offer this benefit to students. Now, yes, choir travels every year for competition as a sanctioned trip, but it's not open to all students, and it's also a private trip, much like the ones I'm offering. It'd be a shame to prevent the rest of the students from such enrichment opportunities. I have colleagues in other school districts who have the full support of their admins to allow communication of these said trips. So today I asked the board what requirements must be met to become a sanctioned trip without any liability of the school. If it can't be a sanctioned trip, then at least allow the communication of these amazing once in a-lifetime opportunities to our students. I thank you for your time. Any questions? Okay. Thank you. >> Thank you. So, we're
013moving on to uh special presentations and we're going to start with the administration of oath of office of student representative Maline Pala. And I do that. [Music] [Laughter] >> No worries. Me too. >> So So I'm going to read and you repeat. >> Amazing. >> Are we on? >> Okay. I, Maline Pala, >> I, Maline Pala, >> do solemnly affirm that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States >> do solemnly affirm that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States >> and the Constitution of the State of California >> in the Constitution of the State of California >> against all enemies, foreign and domestic >> against all enemies, foreign and domestic. and that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of the United States. >>
014that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of the United States. >> and the Constitution of the State of California. >> and the Constitution of the State of California. >> That I take this obligation freely >> without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion >> without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion. and I will well and faithfully discharge the duties upon which I am about to enter. >> and I will well and faithfully discharge the duties upon which I am about to enter. >> Congratulations for a picture. So, Maline, now that you're up here, would you like to say a few words? And I'd like to give a shout out to Stacy and Tony for giving us their wonderful daughter and for being here tonight as well, too. >> Hello. Hello.
015No. And now we will have an update from the Elsagundo Ed Foundation and Christa Kaban. Hello. This the first time I've ever had to raise the microphone to speak, so that's a really exciting win for me tonight. Um, hi President Glenn, Dr. Johnson, members of the board. Thank you for having me. Um, I'm excited. 2025 26 school year. Ready to go. Welcome, Maddie. Sorry. I was just going to say I still have my name plate from when I sat up there years ago um in a momento box somewhere. So, and you know, every so often you see it, you know, I move bulk to totes around. I go, "Oh, yeah." So, keep it. Um, all right. So, I apologize in advance if some of you have heard a few things I'm going to say because
016I've seen many of you over the past week and a half and I've said the same things. But for those of you who haven't heard and for those of you viewers at home, here I go. Uh, first of all, we had a fantastic summer academy this year. We uh doubled in size and doubled our revenue. So, um it was a win-win for the Ed Foundation. So I thank all the parents and students that uh participated and for all of our interns. It was um it was a great year for us. Um then uh later in August we painted the ed wall which is on center and Mariposa with our new uh uh theme for the year which is every student every day always. So I hope you all like it. Um, I think the teachers
017loved all their shirts and for those of you that didn't get them, um, come see us and we still have some for you. We always want to make sure the school board has their shirts as well. Um, on the wall is something that I want everybody to recognize and that is that since 1983 that we have raised over $34 million for the district and we've um funded over 126,000 students. So, we thought that was pretty awesome. So we made sure it was on the wall this year. Uh also in August we welcomed back uh the rest of our board, our new board members and we had a very long meeting. Thank you Frank and Dr. Johnson for sitting with us through the meeting. Um we we discussed how we are implementing all the um suggestions
018and things that were made during our strategic planning meeting and um how we're moving forward and all the events uh that are coming up. Um, we've also uh over the past uh month or so, I was uh welcomed in attending the leadership retreat where uh Cheryl Smith from PTA and myself got to uh speak and talk about our missions for the year. So, thank you for having us. Also, kicking off the school year, Ed Foundation was there for link crew and welcoming all the freshmen at their orientation this year. It was a lot of fun, a lot of energy, and I give it to the the teachers that are um putting it out there and welcoming all the students. I think it was a think it was a great day for them. We also had
019the uh web event at the middle school welcoming all the sixth graders and giving them their information about ed and hopefully they had a wonderful day. Also, um the new teacher orientation, uh Carol, myself, and Sasha were there welcoming the new teachers in our district, and that's always fun. And seeing their smiling faces, and about three or four of them, I believe, were alumni from our district. So, that's kudos to our district. That was pretty cool. Um, also then we had our kickoff rally. Thank you, Dr. Johnson. That's always a fun event. We always get to see childhood photos of Dr. Johnson and learn more about different things, which I love. Um, and hearing from ESTA and PTSA and the students this year, um, I thought that was a brilliant idea having the students thank
020the teachers and tell them how they've influenced their life. I thought that really I mean I don't think there was a dry eye in the room with any of those um, children that spoke and they were all fantastic. Um, then uh, recently as last week, right? We're already we're today's Tuesday, right? Yeah. Uh last week we had our SR event which many of you attended. I really appreciate that. It was wonderful. Um everybody enjoyed hearing what Jason had to say and what the principles had to say about the year and hearing from former superintendent Dr. Watkins and of course of course Richard Lungquist, one of our board members. Um so that was wonderful. And we also handed out our fun SR hats. So those of you that might have missed it, if you're an SR
021member, please reach out to Ed. We have some fun trucker hats that we hope you sport through the school year this year. And um also we currently have our fall pledge drive going on and until October 1st, Chevron will be matching all donations. So um keep that in mind when you're planning your school year. Thank you so much for having me. >> Thank you, Christa. And now uh two very excited people in the room here from uh ESTA still bubbling from the start of the school year. >> Well, it's always difficult to follow the Ed Foundation's presentation. So I don't know what else to do. Obviously, you must be a member of this SR club to even know what that stands for. I'm assuming I'm assuming superintendent roundt to which I must not be a
022part of. First rule of fight club is All right. Anyhow, um once again, we're getting back to the beginning of the school year. It's Tuesday, so I get to see your beautiful faces and wonderful smiles. So, I appreciate looking forward to that every Tuesday evening before I tackle Taco Tuesday. However, getting down to business, it is the second day of school. And just like the students, the teachers had to persevere through two difficult days of waking up on time and getting through a school day without falling asleep. To which I think we all were successful. With that being said, there's only a hundred and what is it? 78 days left. So, the countdown has not begun, but it may have already. But thank you guys for what you guys do. You do a lot of
023stuff behind the scenes that not many people take or they take for granted, sorry to speak. So, um, have a wonderful rest of your meeting. Enjoy. Thank you. >> Andrew [Music] and Oh, Carlos, we have a a report from the CSEA Chapter 71. >> Well, good evening everyone. Thanks for having us. Uh, Superintendent Johnson, President Glenn, members of the board. I just want to say that it's uh a great start of the year. It's been awesome seeing all the smiles and all the children back in action. Uh, we look forward to a successful year. Uh, many pleasant talks uh for um our success. with the union and you know our collaboration. So I just want to wish everyone a a great rest of the year. Thank you. >> Regardless, now we have the introduction of
024the new Elsagundo Unified School District Director of Child Nutrition, Dr. Lens. Um thank you, President Clint. Tonight we are pleased to welcome Francis Mononttoya as Elsagando Unified School District's new director of child nutrition services. Miss Mononttoya brings over 20 years of school nutrition experience from frontline service. She started as a two-hour cafeteria employee to district leadership. She is also a trained Lordon Blue culinary professional. She combines a deep culinary expertise, operational leadership, and a commitment to student wellness, UD USDA compliance, and inclusive healthy menu development. We're excited for the positive impact she will bring to our students, staff, and community. Okay, first time up here. Good evening, board members, President Glenn, Dr. Johnson. And congratulations, Maddie. Nice to meet you, and I'm very excited for you. Uh, I'm going to be a little formal this
025time. I want to make sure that I say everything I want to say. Um, thank you for accepting the recommendation um to hire me as your director of child nutrition. I'm joined tonight by my very supportive family. My husband Sean, my daughter Daisy, my my son Sebastian. Kids make you cry every time, right? Dang it. If I don't look at them, I'm fine. Um, as Kim mentioned, I'm a chef by trade and I'm forever a lunch lady. Um, I worked in child nutrition for 20 years, beginning as a two-hour employee at a middle school. That journey gives me a full perspective when making decisions that keep students both happy and healthy. I'm truly honored to have been chosen as your director after such a rigorous process hiring process. From the carefully curated questions to the
026full panels, everybody in here and multiple interviews, I knew to rat away that Elsa Gundo was not messing around. If anything, it made me even more excited to join this district because the process reflects the value you place on students and you want only the very best for them. I'm very proud and excited to now be a part of this community. Thank you. >> Thank you and welcome. >> Yeah. Photo time. All right, we already heard there was a first day of school and now Dr. Johnson's going to give it a little bit of color. Dr. Johnson. Okay, great. Board President Glenn, members of the board, Tracy, uh I to am proud to present the uh first day of school to all y'all. And uh we have a a quote and a little picture from
027each of our school leaders. So I'll start off with Eagle's Nest. Our interim executive director, Hannah Ford, says, "Nothing beats the first day joy. Students hugging old friends, discovering new ones, and lighting up when they see their teachers. My heart was so full. Which is very sweet. And if you know Hannah, that sounds just like her. Okay. At Richmond School, Richmond Street Schools sprinkled our students and their families with love today. From cheers and hugs at the door to stories and kinder classrooms to smiles in the office and teamwork out front, our community came together to kick off a year full of connection, curiosity, and learning. And anyone that's had the joy uh I know Daimo's there of being on there on the first day of school. They they they sprinkle love with all the
028students that come in. It's pretty cool to see actually. Yeah. Right. All right. Principal Rose Erenss at Center Street School said, "Today was such a wonderful reminder of how much joy and excitement our students bring to school. We're thrilled to finally have them back on campus and the positive energy we felt sets the tone for an amazing year ahead. There's the Cougars care team. We were out doing valet this morning together. Good crew, new crew. Um, uh, fresh fifth graders. Uh, very excited to be the big folks on campus. All right, going over to Elsagundo Middle School. A great first day at ESMS with schoolwide smart start lessons and activities, Chromebooks for seventh and eighth graders, and strong connections with teachers and classmates. The year is off to a promising start. and principal Davalantes, they
029do um a smart start year where like they they focus on just team building and classroom activities to sort of get to know you on the first day and avoid doing content those first days so that they can set the tone for the school year. And then at Elsagundo High School from Mr. Ghart ESHS biomemed students arrived on campus in the Chevron Biamemed lab to find a body in their class, presenting the opportunity to spend the first weeks connecting learning to real world application and solving the crime using forensic science techniques # eagle excellence. Um PD was on campus in order to investigate. Inconclusive so far thank you Mr. Gart. And finally, at Arena High School, executive director Jack Plin, who's here in person today just for this announcement, said, "Arena is excited to welcome
030back both our in-class students to our space at Camp Eucalyptus and our virtual students online, and uh we have our our displaced arena uh school um as well. So, they're over at Camp Eucalyptus, and it's working out pretty good over there. So, special thanks to the city as well, too, for letting us use that facility and the Girl Scouts as well." All right. Uh first days are really nice and awesome and very exciting, but they would not be possible without all the work that takes place during summer. So I just want to give a shout out to M and custodial, our IT folks and the administrative office. Um they really make it happen. There's Francisco over there making sure the floors look nice. Um I believe that's Victor actually. Is that Victor doing the painting?
031>> That's Franc No, doing at the bottom doing the painting. >> Oh, that's William. Okay. Yeah. if if if you haven't had a chance, but the they we painted Thank you. Uh they painted I didn't paint anything. Um they painted um the storage containers and it looks so much better. So really, really nice. If you have a chance when you're walking by the district office. Um so thanks to all those folks. It really just goes a long way. All the phone calls at the front office, all the enrollment stuff and you know the getting the Chromebooks launched. Chromebooks were getting delivered today at um uh for seventh and eighth grade. It's just it's a lot of behind the-scenes work. So, thank you to all those folks for making it happen. Thank you. Any questions about
032the first day? >> Well, with your permission, uh, >> President Glenn, I'll just keep on rolling along here when you're ready, Mr. Gutier. All right. So this evening I will be presenting on the strategic plan for our district goals. Here we go. Um just a little summary. Thank you board of education. You approved the goals in July. Um and then we hit the ground running. Uh we had already kind of started preliminary work in May kind of knowing that the the meat of the goals was set in place and we established a system uh called OKRs or objectives and key results. I was inspired uh by Dr. lens uh who read a fantastic book uh mindset mas >> measurement matters. Yeah. And um it it introduced me to the concept of OKRs uh which is
033really I would say dialed in version of a strategic plan. Sometimes strategic plans are like we're going to do this, we're going to do that, we're going to do that, but it doesn't necessarily get into the house or how you're going to monitor it. And the strategic plan that we have is very detailed uh and gets into the actions that we're going to take place and those actions are already underway. um and will be reviewed on quarterly progress. So, let's talk more about it. Doesn't that feel nice board? >> Now, we just have to do all the work. So, good thing that's over but the the the board um and the school team as long as well as the community did an exhaustive process to get to this point. These goals were not made in
034an office somewhere. They were made in the community with the board through a transparent process. And so we feel really strongly that um our commitment comes from the work together to get to this point. This is an overview which I'll go into more depth but this sort of shows um the the alignment of between communication of uh the strategic plan coordination and action and the various stakeholders and timelines involved. Let's go deeper. So in the area of communication, uh this is sort of just a snapshot of how we are getting this information out and it'll continue to evolve uh with how we better communicate the the goals and actions and the wise behind them. just to highlight an example. Um, currently right now we're having banners made uh that you mean like are you know
035flash shots of you know like the district goals and why they're important and what they are. And then we're also developing various templates, multiple templates uh that would communicate on the website. It's live right now and it does have the drop- down options that you can click uh that cascade so it's not all overwhelming at once. Um, but uh I I think that like the the key piece here is that it's it's a a multiaceted approach to make sure that the what and the why of the message gets out. Then there's the work itself. So this kind of shows you, you know, like how we view coordinating these efforts from the leadership team to the school staff team themselves and then also our key partners PTSA and Ed Foundation where this stuff would not be
036possible without that partnership. Um so it it it really does start with coordination at the leadership team level and then they are working with their school leadership teams and so on forth at the department or grade level and then finally we um the PTSA and and Ed foundation have been awesome um partners in the development of the goals. So they have been brought into that process and they are also assisting with helping us execute some of the goals. For example, PTSA is working with us on a district-wide parent engagement and student education assemblies. Um, so that is just an example of their involvement directly in the work. Then in the area of action, this is an opportunity just to talk a little bit about like what OKRs mean. So, um, there's a small picture and
037I kept it really small because it's really scary the more you see of it. Um but it's a very detailsoriented list of all the steps and key results that would be necessary to achieve certain benchmarks uh within the annual school year. And then an important thing to keep in mind is is that these are three-year goals. So these are just the annual benchmarks for this year. There would be more annual benchmarks beyond. We have no doubt that they will continue to evolve as far as based on that progress. The key thing with OKRs though is that they're uh evaluated on a quarterly process. So it's not that we just get to the end and say like okay how did we do that on a quarterly process we go through each of the key result areas
038and those actions and they're marked in corresponding colors based off the progress. Green being right on time, doing great, blue being ahead of schedule. Uh and then red being hey we got to we got to kick it into gear here. and then gray because like hey you you can't start that area yet until we start another area. So you know not applicable for this quarter. Um it comes from the corporate world. Uh this is that approach. But it really comes back to that we spend all this time and all this effort in developing these goals and these ambitions. So it's an a way to hold ourselves accountable but also to really strategically map out what does it take to achieve those key results. Um and that's why I'm really grateful to Dr. for introducing me
039to this work uh because I I I really feel that the board and the public is going to have an opportunity uh to see very tangible results. So to give you an example I I posted two just a quick snapshot in the goal area of legacy of innovation and sustainability. The goal being safety this is the goal itself and I will this is the few times you'll hear me read uh provide routine and proactive security measures to protect campuses. So that is actually written on the district goal itself and then the objective under that is implement intruder drills and other safety recommendations under emergency response. So some of the key results here would be to conduct two runhide fight drills per school year which we currently don't do. Um that the school district has a
040runhide fight policy but it does not drill uh the runhide fight and we'll talk more about that in safe our safety update. Uh complete vigilance and life-saving training for all teachers. We did a vigilance training just at the was it Friday? Yeah. And I had the opportunity to see uh Martin um and Mike uh present to each of our staff. So we're going to we're actually working on a plan right now to roll that out to our support staff as well too um including all out ofassment personnel like custodians and such. And then complete safety action plans from evaluations. So with Astria risk risk management they conducted evaluations. We converted those evaluations into uh targeted checklist action plans and now we're currently working with each of the principles and uh the um facilities team in
041order to accomplish those and coincidentally we had our meeting one of our meetings with uh Sarah Davalantes today. Give you another example snapshot pathways to excellence. The goal is athletic and extracurricular excellence and we're increasing student participation by 5% over three years from the 2425 baseline. The objective area here is Elsagundo athletics and it's systematically expand and enhance elementary to high school athletic programs with explicit metrics and opportunity inclusivity and satisfaction. So some key results here agreement on a survey metric and reporting periods. So we'll do an evaluative you know a self assessment you mean like from our customer our students on how their experience was offer elementary programming for three seasons. We're very excited about this one. Got some great ideas and redesign uh MS management and financial structure and expand sport offering. The
042key piece here is just sort of try to move uh that programming forward so it's expanded and the teams that we currently have are our resource the to the extent that they need. Um and I if you caught I I randomly sticked a picture of me shooting a basketball at center street here just to show off my athletic prowess. And yes, I did miss that shot. Okay, what's next? Uh in September we're going to complete the innovation sustainability OKRs. A key component to making this work go with a detailed work of the OKRs is having uh staff reviews. So, we've done a review for the first two goal areas. Um, but you literally have to get every leadership team member in the room in order to make sure that everyone is on the same page.
043So, we'll be completing that work in September. In October, we'll take quarterly progress, which will be shared with the board um in that very long exhaustive list that I'm sure you're looking forward to reading. And then January, we'll have a public presentation of our semester progress just in alignment with our district goals. It's a midpoint. This is where we're at and we'll report that in a board presentation. Do you have any questions? >> I have questions. I just have comment that um I've done this a OKR process before and bless you all for doing it because it was not my favorite thing to do, but it is effective and it is a really smart way to organize all the things that you want to achieve to make these goals reality. So, I'm just here to
044say thank you much gratitude for actually seeing you put that in progress and make it happen. >> It's pretty brutal. It's pretty brutal. >> Yeah. I would just like to say that um you know since we saw you in July um there's been so much work behind the scenes. as you shared in, you know, the update that we get um the full version of this and it is super comprehensive and um you know, from from our side, we really appreciate that your boots on the ground are on the ground that you're you're really taking to heart everything that you heard from the community and it's great to see that it's going into action. >> Yeah. And and just credit to the leadership team. they're they're the ones that have dive very deep into the work.
045So, I'm grateful for that contribution because I think the the reason those action steps look as tangible as they do is because it's it's a collective e effort which takes a lot of time. >> Great. Well, President Glenn, with your permission, >> absolutely >> just keep it rolling. >> Mr. Gutierrez, where you and we're gonna and we're going to have a surprise cameo appearance from Mr. Gutierrez in this presentation. So, yeah, something a little something a little special for you guys. It's not just me the whole time. With that said, I'm starting. So, um, tonight I I really believe in doing an at minimum an annual update about safety to the community. And one of the things that we noticed when we were doing our district u uh audit was that uh there is a
046safety page that's dedicated uh to the district's um practices and perspective about safety in the community. It was a bit dated. Um, so this is going to be the replacement presentation for that with some updated policies and we'll continue to update that on an annual basis or um uh and I've done this in my experience in Hermosa uh or as needed if safety concerns come up that need to be addressed um uh to the community and we'll talk a little bit about communication and proactive communication as well. So, we have safety principles uh that I'll share a little bit more in depth that guide our practice for safety, which I I do think is a cultural practice. Um I don't think that safety is necessarily black and white. Um and we'll talk a little bit
047about that. And then, uh comprehensive safety evaluations were approved by the board and conducted during 2425. They were very exhausted. In some cases, it took two maybe three days. And those were converted, as I mentioned, into action plans, which are currently being worked on as we speak. and we'll continue with those action plans throughout the annual year and beyond. All right, our principles. I'm going to spend a little bit of time on this slide. So, there's three principles. Practice, pragmatic, and proactive. Um, in the area of practice, uh, safety is a daily practice. It's it's a culture. So um I uh sometimes schools uh get very rooted in the drill culture of safety where it's like okay we need to do this drill for today to practice our safety. Um however that preparation needs to
048take place every day. That's one of the reasons that we really believe in the vigilance training because the vigilance training is not necessarily a procedure. It's a mindset. Uh and the mindset is is that we're all responsible for campus and our best defense for safety. I mean like against a trespasser or an intruder is everyone feels they responsible to be vigilant on campus. Um another example is messy drills. So you know I've had the experience you know sometimes you get the call from the principal that said we had a lockdown drill. It went really really well. We got done and back to class in two minutes. That is a very efficient drill. But I like messy drills. I like drills with scenarios. I like drills that take a long time because what we're practicing for
049is a very serious circumstance and that's going to be messy and people are going to make mistakes and there's going to be scenarios or curve balls. So we really emphasize that the messier the drill the better because that means that you are actually practicing the drill rather than rehearsing it. Okay. And on that same note, one of the next principle is pragmatic. So safety is a top priority, but it is not our only priority. Schools take on many responsibilities and we take safety very seriously. However, it is not the only thing that schools do. And I'm going to paint a picture of what that may look like. So for example, campus access. You know, there are some that believe that campus access must be very limited. that you know a check-in checkout buzz in buzz
050out system but that is not the culture of Elsa Gundo schools and for that matter South Bay schools generally speaking that we believe in a a campus that you know people can access that parent and community members do have the opportunity to come and volunteer we want to control that access we want to monitor that access but they are open campuses in that regard another example is time so we could spend every professional development on practicing safety and it probably still wouldn't be enough. However, we have other missions as well too, such as the education of our students. So, choices do have to be made about how safety is a priority and how that's carried out. And we have to be pragmatic about our approach. And then finally, proactive. So, I'm a big believer in
051safety for today. So, what is the thing we're need? uh we have not caught up with this as a as a government entity uh state and na nationwide and you know a stat that I think is important to share is that and uh the drill that is required the most in California is there's four fire drills that are required per year all principles know this um runhide uh fight drilling is not required by the state of California now the number of people who have perished in a school fire in the United States. Does anyone know the last 50 years? It's zero. All right. And I need not tell you the stats about the number of people who have perished in an active shooter scenario. So I I'm a big believer in like we're practicing safety
052for today. Um and that goes back to uh communication that you know when we're you know um taking steps for safety, we want to proactively communicate. We've had scenarios this year at the high school. Um we've had scenarios um that have taken place. We had a scenario today and we really believe in proactive communication. First address the safety but then also communicate with our community and this is part of that effort right to to let the community see that these are our efforts that we're making towards safety. All right. On the comprehensive safety evaluation that was conducted by Astri risk management they gave key findings within that. The most important finding um that I've shared with the board before is the most important thing you can do for safety is staff training and practice 100%.
053There's no fence that you can build so high and there's no door that you can lock enough. How staff respond in an emergency situation is researchbased the most important thing to keep people safe. Then the next is procedure recommendations. Those are more the daytoday. So, not necessarily an emergency situation, but proactively, you know, are we checking gates? I mean, like, you know, how what is our check-in system at the front office? You know, do we scan the parking lot in the morning? I mean, like, do we look at certain databases in order to see, I mean, proactively, who lives in our community? And then finally, campus adjustments. So, this is the one that where it's like, hey, these are things we recommend, but we also recognize that not all was within your power or within
054your means as well, too. So, gates, doors, windows, etc. And we'll go a little deeper. So, thank you, Measure ES. Here are all the infrastructure projects that have already been completed that have helped contribute to the safety of our campuses. Moving on to run, hide, fight. Um, this is perhaps probably the most important safety procedure protocol that can be implemented into schools. And I want to emphasize the fight part. So historically when the South Bay adopted this policy as it was originally rolled out was run, hide, distract. The reason for this was 10 years ago there was concern about the statement fight uh being scary for parents, students um for what was a brand new procedure that you know we would not just simply lock down that students and teachers may have to run, they
055may have to hide, you mean like or they may have to fight but it was called distract. So in the subsequent 10 years um law enforcement including local law enforcement, Rodono PD, Hermosa PD and most recently Elsagundo PD have made the recommendation that distract you mean like needs to be updated to the current language and the school districts in the South Bay have done this. Elsagundo just has not had the opportunity to update all of its procedures and its ma master plan to do so. But we are rolling out to our staff that the procedure is fight. Why? Because that's the truth that in the event that running or hiding was no longer an option, I mean like the expectation would be that staff and/or students with means would fight to defend themselves. And that's
056a sad reality that we live in, but that is what we need to be proactive about in order to make sure that we're putting our students and staff in the best position and you like to protect themselves in the worst imaginable event. Questions about that? I'll pause for a moment. >> Yeah, actually I want to bring up something that has come up in the past here that maybe you can address to reassure our community that >> when we are doing these practice drills and when we're talking about these scary situations that we'll talk about it in a way that kids of each age can understand and not be coming to school with fear. Mhm. >> Like we're empowering them, you know, for these worst case scenarios, but how do we not scare them about what
057could happen at school? >> Correct. Yes. So, at the high school and the middle school level, absolutely. That the the language because it's more explicit is geared towards being realistic, but at the same time supportive. And we also have resources at hand that we offer during these training drills. Um bear in mind that this is new to Elsagando but and the other places that I've been that are available. So we will take those steps. At the elementary level there is a change in language that at certain levels the fight portion is omitted. That's always been the case that it's runhide and that it doesn't even get into the run hide fight drill. The the the the presentation is listen to your teacher and they perform a lockdown drill because that's age appropriate. And I would
058just stress to the community that our children and students, adolescents are hyper aware of this reality. This does not just come from adults saying like, "Hey, I think this would be best." I've spoken with students, you know, and students are very aware of the sad reality that we're in and also want to make sure that the schools are taking the necessary steps to put them in the best position possible. Keep going. Okay. Procedures and training. As I mentioned, the runhide fight drill. Um here is a list of all the various procedures and trainings that we are introducing or already have ongoing. Um credit to Jack. He's responsible for a lot of these procedures um such as the suicide risk or threat assessment. Um but there are a lot of uh set trainings to respond to
059safety risk whether it be for the individual or for the group. employee badges. So, Elsagundo did have an employee badge system, but it was a little more informal and wearing your badge was not required. So, all employees if you're on the campus must wear an employee badge with your appropriate lanyard. No customization, sorry. And the reason being is when you work and speak with law enforcement, they are very clear on this matter that being able to identify staff immediately in that instant is absolutely necessary to protect individuals including yourself as a staff member. Um, we had the opportunity to witness the drill um, at Elsagando High School and this involved a lot less people and it was so chaotic that it really hit home how essential it is to make sure that you have proper
060identification as an employee. It's also important because if there's someone on campus without proper identification through our vigilance training, our response is, "Hi, can I help you? Who are you? What are you doing on campus? Going a step further, we now will have all substitutes will have appropriate badges. That will be a sub badge. And then our visitors as well too. I know how much everyone loves those sticky things that they put on their shirt that fall off right away, but now everyone will be required to wear a badge. There's obviously days where this is not possible such as various large events. Um, but as a daily practice, uh, the green badge will be for visitors, city collaboration. Um there's me and Gilbert. Uh we uh have uh been working very closely with uh Elsagundo
061police about prep uh preparedness. The preparation uh drill that took place on Saturday and Monday a couple weeks ago um where first responders practice going onto campuses in order to respond to an active shooter scenario is so essential important. And everything I've talked about about the importance of preparation for drill and staff is equally as important for PD who will be the first responders on campus to have the experience in the space. Our campuses are very old, a little labyrinth at times and so them getting to experience it firsthand in a in a drill scenario was absolutely essential. LA uh county police department also participated in the drill safety project. So, as I mentioned the action plan, um there's a litany of things to follow up on. Here are just a few um that we
062have most recently, shout out to Kim and her team that all of our um safety supplies have been updated and replaced. This took place over the course of last year. And then some small ones that you would think about is reviewing sex offender data in our area and just making sure that we have a comprehensive list of who lives within our community. safety projects in progress. So, uh we are working towards that. So, there's a master safety plan, but we want to we are now standardizing what we call a grabandgo guide. So, all classrooms would have a very quick onthe-go version of our safety procedures. The one, two, three latch, which you see there, um which is absolutely essential to locking down quickly, will be replacing, um old or outdated units, um on all doors.
063And then uh another really key piece which will be a project will come before the board is um placing panic bar exits in various areas. So uh you know there's a major emphasis uh within all communities about erecting barriers in order to keep intruders out. Um the when you do a safety evaluation though, what's much more important than barriers to keep people out is having exits to help people get out. And it's really refraraming the whole concept of of with run, hide, fight that uh anywhere on campus, you should have the ability to exit off of campus very quickly and you're trying to prevent dead ends. So, we've identified certain areas on campuses where we need to install panic bar exit gates or replace gates that are uh chain locked with panic bar exit gates
064and continue to work with the board about bringing those projects forward. And now I'd like to welcome up my special guest Carlos Gutierrez to talk about digital and safety preparedness in the classroom. Carlos, come on up. Yep. So, um, Danny has structured our district's digital safety around three key areas. Threat prevention, uh, where we build strong frontline defenses. Our systems are monitored 247 for any suspicious activity, recovery, and ransomware defense. If something gets through, we're ready and respond quickly. We use a ransomware detection tools that isolate infected systems before threats even spread. And then there's risk and privacy assessment. We're committed to student data privacy, ensuring our practices follow all compliance requirements. So Danny has met with the IT team and has gone over the cyber security plan and protections in place. ESUSD is wellprepared
065to prevent, detect and respond to threats, keeping learning safe and secure. And as member of the IT team, I just want to say that it's always we maintain active, vigilant, and working tirelessly to ensure safe and reliable infrastructure. Um, I'd like to say also that we have the model in place that surrounding districts want to be. Thank you. >> Just uh major kudos to Danny and the IT team. I I really do feel that I not feel I know that we possess the standard um for digital security uh among South Bay school districts and are always looking for opportunities to improve. All right, what is next? So, we've already currently are having our uh vigilance trainings um that just took place. Uh in the fall, we'll continue to work on our action plans for site
066evaluation. And then we'll report to the board our progress through the district goals process about safety uh in the upcoming January meeting. And sometimes I get asked the question, what could I do to help? I'm a community member. I what can I do? Uh it's a team effort. If you feel that there are safety concerns on campus or there's something that you're seeing, please report it to your school leader or to a teacher. But I it's really best either to me or the principal. Um we cannot see everything and all the safety evaluations in the world do not replace um the eye of a resident um who just lives it every day and they see it you know 24 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Uh an evaluator comes um from the outside
067and they are working on a campus for two to three days. Uh that that is is a certain viewpoint and as we mentioned safety is practice. It's ongoing. Uh volunteer for a committee or counselor. There are a lot of different ways to describe safety whether it be through the wellness council um or through our environmental committee. Uh there there are different ways to get there. So uh all contribute to the overall safety. Uh volunteering for PTA or Ed Foundation. Uh I mean it that those resources go a long way and PTA volunteers in particular are constantly on campus. And then finally donating to the Ed Foundation. While the Ed Foundation doesn't directly contribute to safety projects, they do contribute to the district and it allows us to have the ability to fund some of these
068projects whether it be through staffing or through infrastructure that cannot be possible without the district's contribution or hard choices have to be made. I mean like between programming and safety and we don't want to make those choices. Um so I do think that all efforts count. Thank you. Do you have any questions? Wonderful. Thank you. >> Think the board wants to get down to doing some voting. >> Could I approach real quick? I'm so sorry. >> Um >> if I do, this is probably out of form. Um I was supposed to speak with with group that I have no idea where they are. Um, my name is Tom Kernney and I'm uh I I I'm here to create a film festival for you guys. And um that's why I was here to talk about this
069because I really believe that you know that that Elsagundo should have a film festival for one thing. >> We're we're the school board, not the city. >> I You're the school board. >> Yes. I don't care. >> Okay. >> You need a film festival. >> Well, >> that's a great idea. maybe the city. I I I I totally agree with you, >> but I'm here to say that I'm I'm I'm I'm I'm here to create something that is going to You have no idea how many I I started the Hermosa Beach Film Festival and the PE the kids that that that had you know >> Tom sorry but anyway there is a point of order in a board meeting and I know that and so I broke that qu I know I if you allow
070me a minute. >> Yeah. >> Uh while we want to support your cause or listen to you, this is not the appropriate moment to do so. >> So, what we can do is if Tracy will walk with you outside and we'll get your contact information and we'll follow follow up from there. >> That would be great. >> Yeah. >> Um and I'm telling you right now that the kids that I supported through the film festivals that I've done have gone and done amazing things. So this is not about, you know, film festival. This is this is about exactly what you're talking about. >> Thank you. Well, we'll collect >> I just want you to understand that. >> Thank you. We'll collect your information and we'll follow up from there. >> I appreciate you. >> Yeah,
071you're welcome. >> And who are you? >> I'm Dr. Johnson. >> I'm Tom Kern. >> Yeah. Nice to meet you. >> Nice to see you. >> Yeah. All right. Yeah. Thank you. Have a good afternoon. >> Right. Um so we're moving on to the consent agenda. Um, >> do we have a motion for approval? >> I move approval for items consent agenda items A through P. >> Second. >> Is there any discussion? >> Maddie, your preferential vote. Will I do that again? Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I >> uh all board members in favor. >> I >> Any opposed? Seeing none, passes five to zero. on section six. Um item A, approval to enter into a an agreement with JR Universal. Dr. Lind. Yes. This would be um a contract with JR Universal to put
072an ADA path of travel between the Mariposa Wing where our some of our special education classes are offered and the main building at Richmond Street School. I recommend approval. >> I'll move approval. >> Second. Um I have a question. So how is that different than the work we did? >> Right. So we did work to connect the main building to the Mariposa wing, but it still isn't possible to get from the Maraposa wing to the main building without having to use steps. Um so if you go into the kindergarten T uh TK area of the building, there's steps from that space up in the main building. So this would be one uniform path of travel to get from that wing without having to leave school grounds. >> Great. >> Any further discussion? >> Maddie, your
073preferential vote. >> All board members in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Seeing none, passes 5-0. Item B, Dr. Linds. >> This is approval of a resolution um that will allow us to apply for modernization funding. It's a requirement of the state allocation board for us to pass a resolution stating that we will always have a 5-year facility master plan on file that we can submit when we submit those um applications. I recommend approval. >> I move approval of action item 6B. Second. >> Is there any discussion? Seeing none, Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I all board members in favor. >> I. >> Any opposed? Seeing none, passes 5-0. Item C, Dr. Linds. >> This is approval of our transportation bus agreements for athletics and student activities for the 2526 school year. As you'll notice,
074there are multiple companies listed here. That is to make sure there is always a bus company available due to the shortages that do happen throughout the year. I recommend approval. >> I'll move approval. >> Second. >> Is there any discussion? >> Just thank you for having multiple. Um it the last couple years it has definitely become an issue to to have you and we used to have one company that we went to all the time and that just doesn't exist anymore. >> Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I. >> All board members in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Seeing none, passes 5. Item D, Dr. Linds. >> This is approval of the final division of state architectural fees for the district-wide HVAC replacement project that happened last summer. Um, everything has been installed. We have
075had all the signoffs that we need and now we're ready to close out the pro project and pay final fees. I recommend approval. >> I'll move approval. Second. >> Is there any discussion? Seeing none. Uh, Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I. >> All board members in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Seeing none, passes 5-0. Item E. >> So, this is an exciting one. Um, after an extensive and public process, the Elsagundo High School has chosen to recommend BSN Sports as their branding contractor. This would this contract would provide one vendor for all athletic and spiritware for the high school with a cost savings to the high school and district. The process included a publicly advertised request for proposals. All applicants were interviewed by a panel representing all stakeholders and companies were um rated on
076a best value scale. BSN was the clear winner of the bidding process and I recommend approval. Approval of action item 6E >> second. >> Is there any discussion? >> I have a question. Um, so now that we have the vendor and are we going to be having multiple logos for different sports or are we going to stick with the generic like we are the Eagles? >> Thank you for asking me that question. I missed my last line here. Um so once we approve this contract, BSN will work with both the school, the spirit clubs as well as all the teams to develop their unique logos. Um and BSN does offer multiple brands as well. So sports teams will have more than one athletic brand available to them as well in terms of Nike um uh
077Adidas as opposed to just one brand >> and those will be used for the middle school and the >> for right now it'll just be the high school. These are examples of what was submitted by BSN, but each sport will work with them directly on their own branding. >> Okay. >> And I sorry, one more question. So will they go through like that part like what is going to be the next step for them like if they they're the each sports team that develops their >> specific logo. >> So they will work with BSN but no logos will be allowed without approval from the athletic director and the principal. >> Perfect. Thank you. Any further discussion? >> No, I just I like that we have a channel for all these things so we look like
078the same school and all the sports. So, yay. >> Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I >> All board members in favor. >> I. >> Any opposed? Seeing none, passes 5-0. Um action item 6F. Clerk Weeden. In accordance with board of education policy number 3290, the board of education may accept gifts as long as there is no conflict with the education code or other public laws. The school board has received generous donations as read. American City Pest and Termite $100. Center Street School PTA $10,64860. Chevron Products Company 1,000. Eagles Nest Preschool PTO $475.36 Elsagundo Middle School PTSA $20,581.36 JW Photography $840 JW Photography again $750 Kroger $468.19 Richmond Street School PTA $30,000 West Basin Municipal water district $2,000. These donations do not conflict with any education code or public laws regarding acceptance of gifts. I move
079to approve as read. >> I'll sec. Oh, >> go ahead. >> Okay, I will second. >> Is there any discussion? >> Seeing none, Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I. All board members in favor. >> I >> Any opposed? Seeing none, passes five to zero. Item G, Dr. Lind. >> These This is a Oops. This is a list of items that have been deemed obsolete for district use. Um, all efforts will be made to sell or donate items. I recommend approval. >> I'll move approval. >> Second. >> Any discussion? >> Seeing none, Maddie, your preferential vote. I. >> All board members in favor. >> I. Any opposed? Seeing none, passes 5-0. Item H. Dr. Linds. >> Okay. Another exciting one. Um, the district is recommending to conduct a comprehensive sustainability audit to develop a long-term sustain
080sustainability plan. We are choosing to work with Varagy for the sustainability audit because they bring strong expertise in sustainability, decarbonization and operational efficiency. Already have done sa sub substantive work with the district and know our systems well and will provide a comprehensive plan for a 2030 2035 and 2040 set of goals that can be implemented into our long range facility plan. I recommend approval. I'll >> go. >> I'll watch Meredith move approval. >> I move approval of item 6H. >> I'll happily second. >> Any discussion? >> Just want to say yay. >> Sustainability. Excellent. Love it. More all the time. Great. >> All right. Um, Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I. >> All board members in favor? >> I. Any opposed? Seeing none, passes five to zero. And item I, Dr. Lind, >> this is
081our continued work with Sujang Creative for videography services for the 2526 school year. Um, this will work with our site leadership as well as to create a series of videos for our high school pathways to assist our middle school students in making choices as they move into the high school area. I recommend approval. I move approval of action item six. I >> second. >> I'd like to say I'm very excited about this. Can't wait to see how it comes out. Seeing no more comments. Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I. >> All board members in favor. >> I. >> Any opposed? Seeing none, it passes 50. On to section seven, human resources. Item A, Miss Field. This is a revised job description for a part-time classified position at Elsagunda High School. Under the direction of the
082college and career TOSA, this person will provide clerical and liaison support um related to college and career readiness. Specifically, this person will assist with dual enrollment, track student participation in programs, facilitate community outreach, and support partnerships with colleges um industry industry professionals and local organizations. I recommend approval. >> I move to approve action item 7A. Second. >> Any discussion? >> Seeing none, Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I. >> All board members in favor? I >> any opposed? Seeing none, passes five to zero. Item B, Miss Field. This is an annual agreement with Pel Peninsula Unified School District to provide induction services to first and secondyear teachers as required by the California Commission on Teacher Credentiing. Uh through this agreement uh Elsagundo unified will join five other districts in a consortium facil facilitated by the uh
083PVUSD and we have estimated 11 teachers participating in this school year. The costs associated include program fees, mentor stipens and substitute release days. I recommend approval. >> I'll move approval. >> Second. >> Any discussion? just that this is a a very deserving. We need this program and our this makes this process so much easier for our teachers having been a bitsa provider, a mentor. Um this is a this is a program that our new teachers have to have in order to to work for us. And so by by having this consortium, it makes everybody's lives a whole lot easier. >> Absolutely. And it's definitely the support needed for our new teachers. >> Great. Thank you, >> Maddie. Your preferential vote. >> I. >> All board members in favor. >> I. >> Any opposed? >> Seeing
084none, passes 50. Uh item 7C. Miss Field. Education code allows school districts to establish establish catastrophic glee program allowing um employees to donate leave credits to fellow employees when an employee or a member of their family suffers a loss or major illness or injury. Uh CSEA has requested that the district enact this for a period of 14 days to support a classified unit member whose child is managing a serious illness. I recommend approval. I'll move approval. >> Second. >> Is there any discussion besides this being a great idea? >> Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I. >> All board members in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? >> Seeing none passes five to zero. >> Miss Wheel, do you introduce this or I do it all from here? Item D. >> Okay. 7D, Miss Field. >>
085All right. This action item is a recommendation to compensate the interim assistant superintendent of educational services during the recruiting and hiring process for the new assistant superintendent. This allows for a consistent oversight of key initiatives and priorities and ensures continuity of support for students, staff, and families. The interim assistant superintendent of educational services will be compensated for his services at range 8, step five of schedule A until the position is filled. I recommend approval. >> I move approval of action item 7 D. >> Second. >> Uh, prior to the vote on the contract, I'll read Yeah, this is for the interim. >> This is for the interim. >> It's for the >> Oh, >> okay. >> Oh, this one doesn't have a readout. Okay. >> Okay. Sorry. No, it's okay. Um, is there any discussion?
086>> Uh, thank you to the interim assistant superintendent. >> Um, Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I, >> all board members in favor. >> I >> Any opposed? Seeing none, passes 5-0. Congratulations to all involved. >> And um item 7E, >> this action is a recommendation to compensate an interim executive director of preschool for her services and supporting the preschool and TLC staff during the hiring process. This allow for a continuity of leadership and support for staff and families during the recruitment and hiring process. I recommend approval. I move approval of item 7E. >> Second. >> Is there any discussion prior to the vote on the contract? I'll read the statement required by law. Effective January 1st, 2017, pursuant to the government code section 54953, subdivision C3, before taking final action on an employment agreement for
087a local agency executive or a salary or benefit increase for a current local agency executive. The board must provide an oral summary of the salary and or fringe benefits for the local agency executives. Local agency executive is defined by government code section 3511.1 subdivision D I D1 through three as the chief executive officer a deputy chief executive officer or an assistant chief executive officer of the local agency in our district. We consider the superintendent, assistant superintendent, and any other administrators and managers who are department heads and are employed by an individual contract to be local agency executives. For consideration of the board tonight is the initial contract of a local agency executive within the meaning of the law. Accordingly, we will read the following information into the record. The position of the local agency executive
088is interim executive director of preschool. The term for the new employment contract between the district and the executive is retroactive August 11, 2025 through September 30th, 2025. The interim executive director of preschool salary beginning on August 11, shall be $10,528 per month at range 22 step three of schedule Z classified management and confidential salary schedule and subject to all necess necessary deductions. Do we have any public comments on this action item before the board takes final action? Hearing none, can I get a motion to take final action and approve the interim director's employment contract? We already did that. Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I. >> All board members in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Seeing none passes five to zero and item seven F. All right. As we conducted interviews for the new assistant
089superintendent of educational services, um Dr. Young was a clear front runner. She brings over 20 years um in public education with a career that spans classroom teaching, site leadership, and district and cabinet level administration. and her professional background demonstrates success in advancing instruction, supporting staff, and fostering strong community partnerships. We're excited to welcome her to our leadership team. I recommend approval. >> I move approval of item uh 7F. Second. >> Prior to the vote on the on the contract, I'll read a statement required by law effective. Sorry, you all heard this already. Effective January 1st, 2017, pursuant to the to government code section 54953, subdivision C3 before taking final action on an employment agreement for a local agency executive or a salary or benefit increase for a current local agency executive. The board must provide
090an oral summary of the salary and or fringe benefits for local agency executives. Local agency executive is defined by government code section 3511.1 subdivision D1 through 3 as the chief executive officer, a deputy chief executive officer or an assistant chief executive officer of the local agency. In our district, we consider the superintendent, assistant superintendent, and any other administrators and managers who are department heads and are employed by an individual contract to be local agency executives. For consideration of the board tonight is the initial contract of a local agency executive within the meaning of the law. Accordingly, we will read the following information into the record. The position of the local agency executive is assistant superintendent educational services. The term for the new of the new employment contract between the district and the executive is September
09129th, 2025 to September 28, 2028. The assistant superintendent salary beginning on September 29th, 2025 shall be $22,000 per year at range 8, step five of the certificated management salary schedule and subject to all ne necessary deductions. The assistant superintendent shall be entitled to 22 days annual leave annual vacation with pay exclusive of holidays. A maximum of 44 days of earned vacation may be carried from one year to the next. The district will provide the assistant superintendent and pay for service of a districtsued cellular phone to be used primarily for district business. Or the district will allow the assistant superintendent to have their personal cellular phone number added to the district's plan. or the district will provide a monthly stipend in lie of the district issued phone or plan participation. The district shall reimburse the assistant
092superintendent for attendance at appropriate professional meetings in accordance with district policy and upon prior board approval. The district shall pay the assistant superintendent's membership dues in AXA, the Association of California School Administrators, during each year of the agreement. The assistant superintendent shall be entitled to receive all fringe benefits accorded to other management employees of the district. Do we have any public comments on this action before the board takes final action? Hearing none. Uh, Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I, >> all board members in favor. >> I. >> Any opposed? Seeing none, passes five to zero. On to section 8, uh, educational services. Item A. Dr. Plen. >> Thank you. We're grateful for our partnership with the city and item A is entering an agreement with the city of Elsagundo to continue to use this space
093for our board meetings through August 26, 2026. Um, and I recommend approval. >> I move to approve action item 8A second. >> Any discussion? Thank you. >> Thank you. We haven't broken anything yet. I think >> we've been really good. Yeah. Um, Maddie, your a preferential vote. >> I >> All board members in favor. >> I. >> Any opposed? Seeing none, passes 5-0. Item 8B. Dr. Pluckin. >> Yes. Uh, musical accompanists are critical parts of authentic choir education. And so, this agreement enters into, uh, a contract with Lauren Davis to accompany ESHS and ESMS choirs. I recommend approval. >> I'll move approval. >> Second. >> Any discussion? >> Buzzer beater. >> Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I. >> All board members in favor. >> I. >> Any opposed? Seeing none, passes five to zero. And
094item C, Dr. Pluck. >> Yes. Los Angeles County Office of Education is the provider what's better known as Outdoor Science School, uh, which is in sixth grade, is a real milestone for our students. This agreement, uh, sets it up for this school year. I recommend approval. >> I move approval of action item 8 V >> C. Right. C. >> Second. Any discussion? just that I believe this is going to be your number >> 65 >> which is pretty exciting. So for those of you who have never been to outdoor science school >> it's the best. >> And you know Maddie you're allowed to comment on these things too. So, like if you if you have things you like to share, >> Maddie was actually my last group that I got to >> that I got
095to travel with and we literally got off the bus for outdoor sight school and didn't come back due to co >> That is true. Mr. Mr. Right got off the bus and said no >> and then and then we were released um for CO. >> What a day. >> Yeah. >> Maddie, your preferential vote. I. >> All board members in favor. >> I. >> Any opposed? Seeing none, passes five to zero. Item D. Is that >> Yes. Item D is approval of purchase of band equipment for school programs. Uh it comes through Prop 28 funding. We're very grateful to Cheryl Smith and our parent community for advocating for the arts and initiatives like these. So, I just want to put that out there. I recommend approval of this item. I'll move approval. >> Second. >>
096Any discussion? >> I just want to say $222,000 is a notable amount that we are able to have because of this. And so this is very exciting to see this happening. >> Yeah. Excited. >> M your preferential vote. >> I. >> All board members in favor. >> I. >> Any opposed? Seeing none, passes five to zero. Item E, Dr. Yes. Item E is approval of ESHS business pathway students to travel to DECA competitions. DECA stands for distributive education clubs of America. These are competitions in Costa Mesa and Anaheim that give students authentic opportunities to learn and practice their skills. It it of course involves parent chaperones aligned with the board policy and I recommend approval. >> I'll move approval. Second. >> Is there any discussion? Seeing none, Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I. >> All
097board members in favor. >> I. >> Any opposed? Seeing none, passes five to zero. Moving on to section nine, item A, Dr. Plucken. >> Yes. Item 9A is approval of a master contract with Heritage Residential Treatment Center. This is a residential treatment center in Utah. Uh, and it's an option that is sometimes required by students individualized education plans. It's CDE approved facility. I recommend approval. >> I move approval of action item 9A. >> Second. >> Any discussion? >> Seeing none, Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I. >> All board members in favor. >> I. >> Any opposed? Seeing none, passes five to zero. Item B, Dr. Bucken. >> Yes. This is approval of a master contract with emerges healthc care staffing. Emergis provides specialized um medical staff such as LVN's CNAs to schools as needed. I
098recommend approval. >> I move to approve action item 9B. >> I'll second. >> Any discussion? Seeing none, Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I. >> All board members in favor? >> I. Any opposed? Seeing none, passes five to zero. Item 9 C. Dr. Buckin. >> Yes. This is the approval of agreement with Edenum Inc. Edenum is the parent company of what's better known to our students and families as Apex Learning. Apex is used as credit recovery as a primary curriculum at Arena and for independent study at Elsundo Middle School. I recommend approval. I'll move approval. >> Second. >> Any discussion? Seeing none, Maddie, your preferential vote. >> I >> All board members in favor. >> I. Any opposed? Seeing none, passes 5. Thank you. All the voting done. >> That was a lot of voting. and
099um informational calendar. So the big news we meet exciting things we got here. >> So we're back here on the 9th and the 30th of September and it looks like we got a nice little holiday on the 23rd. Anything else? probably lots of back to school nights. >> Um, let's move on to announcement. Um, board member Beechley, take us off. >> All right. So, first off, I would like to welcome everybody back to another school year. Starting off with a wonderful 2526 school year, which is just crazy that that's where we are now. Um, I kind of started my back to school with the Ed Foundation mural. So, I um I'm proud. I usually get to paint the little every student wins part. So, I did the orange of the every student wins and some
100orange circles. Um, so that's always I love doing that every year. Um, and then the the rally um was maybe one of I've been to many of those in the 40 years of education. Um, and that was maybe one of my favorite back to school rallies. Um to hear from the kid to see the kids perform is always exciting but to hear from the the students was absolutely phenomenal and I cried. So um I actually even took it upon myself to reach out to one of the students and thank him for um what he said um and how he said it. So um it was it was very touching. So um and then that evening we did the superintendent's round table um which is always a a fun and interesting event. got to hear from
101the principles. Uh got to hear some some wonderful things. Um and then the next day I got to do my next maybe one of my favorite activities of getting back to school in the fall, which is football. And I got to get my stick out and um stand on the sideline uh with uh Miss May and Mr. Eastman and be the the chain gang. and I proudly wore my trucker's hat from the Ed Foundation. So, that was exciting. Um, the first varsity uh football game will be this Friday. Um, I don't do chain gang for varsity because I prefer to be in the stands. Um, so that's where I will be on Friday. And then first day of school, um, which is always exciting, and I got to spend my time at Center Street, I
102worked the the little line, what do we call it, the pickup, the drop off valet. I worked that for a little while and then um got to got to watch the littles come in which was just amazing to watch all the TK and and kindergarteners um walk in. Um I always thought that the sixth graders looked little coming in. You see those little TKs and it was just adorable. Um, and then I'm here today and I think that concludes my report. >> Um, welcome back everybody to a great school year. Um well, while everyone was doing all these amazing things pre um school starting, I was getting students and admin and teachers ready for school, cutting everyone's hair and catching up and getting to hear, you know, nervous different high schoolers coming in and um
103it was a really cool experience to know kind of the whole roundabout being with students and then also knowing what's going on behind the scenes. Um, but with that I also got to attend first day of school. I Jax let me walk him to school. Um, so I got to be there at middle school and then made my way down to Center Street to see the old stomping grounds and got to be there in the coffee area with new parents. And it seems like it's going to be a really fun year. I think that we have a lot of things going on and um I'm very excited to possibly wear a jersey this Friday at the game, you know, maybe or a jacket. I mean, we're going to decide what what what attire we're wearing,
104but um I'm looking forward to a great school year and lots of fun things. >> Well, first off, I want to say welcome back. Miss Beley covered a lot of the activities that we were able to enjoy before the first day of school. On the first day of school, I did get to stop by Richmond Street School and greet all of the incoming students. And then I moseied over to the high school with Frank and we had a nice um time looking at everyone come in. The high schoolers are much more chill than the than the smaller kids, rightfully so. They have earned that right. But at this time I I want to say going back to action items 7D and E, we approved those items because we had Marica Janisk who was with us
105for 20 plus years leave to go be a superintendent in another district. And I want to take a moment to say congratulations to her and that we will truly miss you. We are so proud of you and we support you from afar. You are poised, you are kind and you are always a professional. Congratulations again. You will be missed. All right. Um well, I hope everybody had a good restful summer break. I don't know that I feel rested at this moment, but I hope everybody got some time to uh do some downtime. Um, first day of school was great. Yes, I covered the east side with some of my fellow board members and that was fun to see uh the littles and the mediums at the two campuses. So, it was great. Um, throughout the
106summer, we still have facility advisory committee meeting regularly because yes, there are still projects happening. Um, for those of you who aren't on that committee, I will say our boardroom that we miss is very dark. It's uh kind of uh demolished a little bit and um very dusty. So, we are much better being here right now, but it's it's coming together. It's coming together. Um uh earlier this month, I launched the LA County Trustees Association year with an executive board retreat and planning meeting. And I want to announce to you all first that on Monday, September 15th, the first event for LAXA is a mixer here in Elsagundo at the five at the 5.5 brewery. So 6 p.m. Monday, September 15th for those of you that are in town. I don't I think you're not
107in town. Some somebody's not in town that day. Somebody's in town. Those those of you that are in town, and that includes staff, too. You guys are welcome to come if you want to hang out with board members. I know it might not be the most exciting thing, but superintendent are also invited and and all of our staff. It's the day before our birthday. Let's go. Let's go. >> So, we can multitask. Tracy, our birthday thing. Yeah. Anyway, LA County trustees. >> See, now I'm now I'm hyping it even more. So, there's going to be multiple reasons to be out. If you don't want to be there with the Laxa people, you can be there for other fun Elsagundo festivities. So, um, uh, we will send out official Laxa announcements about it, but, um, the
10815th is is that date. So, if you're around, please come join us. And that again, staff and board members, welcome. And special guests as well. Um, next coming up is United Against Hate Week. This is this is me wearing the South Bay Community Coalition Against Hate. Now, uh, we have been talking about United Against Hate, which happens the week of October 20th. and uh we've been in conversation with Miss Janik before she left and um Valerie Green of the uh city of Elskundo DEI committee and we're working to figure out what we will do together on Wednesday, October 22nd. Most likely it'll be something in the city hall area, but these are still formative plans and um we're looking to incorporate students, uh staff, anybody that wants to participate in expressions of art or speaking
109or performance or whatever the good vibes are that we can bring together that night. So, um we'll keep talking about that and figuring that out together as we get closer. Um, I will say we we talked about this briefly offline, but uh we're excited to learn that Elsundo in partnership with Hermosa Beach will be presenting at the CSBA AEC this year for a uh little talk on channeling new energy into effective governance uh building a team with a new superintendent, new new board members because both districts have had some experience doing that in the last uh year plus a little. So, we're excited to do that on the Thursday afternoon that we are in lovely Sacramento. And um with that, I'm I'm happy to see everybody back at school, but I am still holding some
110space in my heart for one of our students who is not with us this year. Um we celebrated her memory just a few weeks ago, but I will say that I know she's going to be watching her friends and our community as a guardian angel now. So with that, I will send um love and light to the gold part family and uh know that this you know start of the school year is a thing that is hard to navigate as many things will be for them but we are with you in uh spirit as you go through that. So that's all for me. >> Uh thanks Tracy. Um, I don't think we mentioned that Tracy and I got to attend the ESUSD leadership retreat and um, I don't know if we helped you at all,
111but it was great to be in the room. It w it was uh, it was uh, it was good for us to just have our faces there with uh, all of your leadership team and you were getting down to a lot of hard work and and we really appreciate what you're doing. Um, we're we're also uh another I don't did we mention new teachers orientation? >> No, I don't think we did. >> Oh, we forgot. I forgot that one. >> Well, I introduced uh our board there and um gave everyone a theme song. So, I'm just wondering if you remember what your theme song. >> Don't stop believing. Everyone can bring it. >> Welcome to the jungle. You're gonna hear me roar. >> Yeah, you're gonna hear me roar. >> Was mine I will survive.
112>> I will survive. Yeah. >> Like I forgot. >> So, um yesterday, as Daim mentioned, I was at the high school for the first day of school, and I want to say that it was a beautiful sight to see um Principal Gapart out in front of the school. um chatting with each of the students as they came in and just a little short conversation, a fist bump and a smile and I think that goes a long way um to create those connections with the students to let let them know that it's it's this whole thing is a team effort. It's not just the students and the staff. There's a there's a bonding that happens throughout the school year. Um, on Friday, uh, Jason and I, uh, had the opportunity to attend the kickoff for the
113Elsagundo Art Walk, uh, which is a fabulous event. It was held at, uh, Cali Smash, which is not quite open yet. Maybe it is now, but it's the new pickle ball facility on the east side of town. And um I just like to say it here that Jason is undefeated in pickle ball. I think he played four games and uh he killed it >> and >> no I [Music] >> so uh and actually um Tra Tracy and I were on the facilities uh advisory walk and we noticed that behind the the bleachers at the high school they've marked it out for pickle ball which I think is super exciting because >> I uh I've been playing it for like three years and it it is a very inclusive sport that uh people no matter what
114their ability is can pick it up really quickly and enjoy it. So it's it's a great activity and um I'm excited. I don't know about the neighbors are going to be that excited because pickle ball can get kind of loud but >> drops. Yes. So, um, so but but I think it I I really think it's a fabulous thing to introduce our kids to, um, uh, you know, during their, uh, PE. And, um, just staying on the sports theme for a second. Um, we have a teacher, um, at Richmond Street School. She teaches fourth grade. She's been there a long, long time. And because my kids who have finished college now had Val Boil in fourth year, fourth fourth grade. And um this past weekend in Columbus, Ohio, Val competed in the World CrossFit Games
115and she finished in second place in her age group. And I I don't know if you've ever seen what CrossFit is, but she did there was there's eight different disciplines and uh this a it's a worldwide event by the way. This is the final. It's the culmination of a whole season. And um just imagine one is uh I forget what they call it, but you get that big >> barbell. >> Yeah. Over her head, >> 215 pounds. And uh it's how many you can do in five minutes. And it's just amazing to see what what Val can do. And um I hope you you hear Val that we're all very proud of you. So with that, I'll turn it over to to you. >> Thank you, President Glenn. I am going to um uh give
116u uh Maddie some time in order to provide her report for us that we're all anxious and excited to hear and then I'll take over. Awesome. And then to speak on the pickle ball, we are in the process of making a pickle ball club at the high school in partnership with Wreck Park. So, that should be very exciting. Um, but it has been a very exciting start to the school year and I'm very excited to share some highlights. Over the summer, we had movie in the Park where our classes hosted booths during the movie night and all proceeds went directly back to each class helping them fundra for their activities for the year. We had link crew orientation where our link crew leaders welcomed the incoming freshmen with team building activities, campus tours, and guidance
117to help our new Eagles feel at home. We had our ASB retreat where ASB swore in our new freshman officers and incoming members. We decorated the school and prepared for the new year. We had registration and orientation obviously where students picked up their schedules, textbooks, and ID photos. And uh our seniors showed up with their school spirit with their fabulous wigs for their ID photos. Beloved tradition. Uh we also had senior sunrise yesterday where the class of 26 gathered to watch the sunrise together. Definitely a uh bittersweet tradition for sure. And yesterday obviously was our first day back to school and is great to see some familiar faces and obviously new ones as well. And this year, very exciting, our school year theme is Stranger Things. So, it's already brought a lot of excitement to
118our events. And this Friday, we'll host our back to school assembly where we'll officially unveil that theme. And then our first football game. Some of you stole my words. Um, but that's going to be against Tesco Canyon. And our theme is touchdown to the upside down. So, the theme is 80s. So, I don't know if that fits in your gear, Miss Speechley, but whatever. So, that was the that was the controversy is do we do neon, retro, and 80s? So, it's whatever you interpret. >> Yes, >> definitely. Yes. >> And then looking ahead, we have Club Rush on September 16th and 17th where many of our student organizations will showcase what they do and recruit new members. And then following that on September 20th, we have the Main Street Fair, obviously, which will bring the
119clubs and programs together to host booths and raise money for their activities as well. Um definitely been a spirited start to the school year and obviously looking very forward to everything still to come. But thank you and that is the end of my report. >> Uh they do it on the football field. These are blankets and donuts. >> All right. Thank you, Maddie. I'll take it from here. Uh I want to give a shout out to PTA. among the many things that they do, they also support professional development during the summer um at some of our school sites. So, just you know, what doesn't PTA do? So, just a shout out to them. Uh it was great um uh being at the superintendent round table and seeing all of our families that kind of go
120the extra mile to contribute uh to our schools. And just a reminder, it's it's annual giving. It's it's on you can go on the website right now and make your annual donation. Encourage you to do so. Uh on the staff side, just a shout out to Victor at Elsagundo Middle School. We celebrated him for 35 years of service to the district, one of the longest serving employees. Um and this guy brings it every day. And I'm on site, so I I see. But this guy is always working to the point where I told Trace, I was like, "Hey, who's that guy that's always working?" And she's like, "You mean Victor?" I was like, "Yeah, that guy." And so it's been a pleasure getting to know him this school year or previous school year. Um, I
121want to give a shout out to the preschool and TLC staff. Uh, I had the opportunity to go down to Richmond, uh, yesterday. Yesterday, uh, and meet with the TLC and preschool staff and talk about, uh, some of the things that are happening and what we'd like to see out of the next, um, uh, preschool director. Uh, it was great conversation, great opportunity to visit the site, um, and looking forward to continuing to work in order to make sure that our preschool and TLC, uh, is the best that we can be. And that rhymes. And then uh the uh I I just want to give a shout out to some key people uh Denise uh and Tracy Manning who are you know on the administrative staff uh for TLC and preschool. And then just to
122the team. It was just really nice talking to the preschool teachers with Lisa and to the TLC staff. We just we have great hardworking people um that really go uh the extra mile to support our students. So really grateful to them. Thank you. And then uh uh just the new teachers. Uh you know, I have the privilege of interviewing every single employee that enters our school district as a new employee. Uh and uh this is one of the and you know, I I really mean it. This is one of the strongest hiring classes that I've ever personally uh gotten to see in my six years as superintendent. Um and I've seen large hiring classes. And so this is a very talented team, very eager. uh uh a lot of folks that are new new new
123and and bringing uh exciting ideas and of course a lot of Elsaundo alumni. You mean that you know of course uh so just really really excited on the student side. I want to give a shout out to uh President Maddie. Um done a great job. You're already dressed better than Grady. Uh and and so I'm just really grateful to be working with you and uh I actually had a few jokes loaded about Grady and I I held off. Uh, but I do actually want to give a shout out to Grady uh wherever you may be. And um just I really enjoyed uh getting to work with Grady last year. He's just such a great human being and so we're really just excited for him and and we're even more excited to work with you this
124year, Maddie. So very good. Uh and then uh uh another student I'd like to give a shout out to, ninth grader McKenna. Uh and that's because she said hi to me at 9th grade registration. Uh on the uh event side, enjoyed the art walk. Always awesome. The kickoff was great. The event was awesome. My experience at the event was going from pizza to Jender's ice cream to home. So just really grateful to Elsa Gunda for that. The kids the kids loved it. Um but it just there's there's so much involved in making an event like that happen. So just kudos to the city and the chamber and the um art committee, art and culture committee. It just a lot of work goes into that. Um, John McCulla. Yeah. Was he the guy that he was
125the guy that spoke? Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Just like really cool people doing just an awesome service to their community. I I sincerely mean that. Uh, speaking of the city, um, I'll be in attendance at city council on September 2nd. And I want to give a shout out to the city for being inclusive on the city planning process or the general plan. Um, I think they're really trying to do that outreach and I've had an opportunity to participate in a session. My shout out goes to TMZ, otherwise known as Tracy Miller's Arnicki as well as Heather Sutherland for the first day of school. We walked from the middle school to Center Street. Just a nice way to start the day. It was it was it was awesome. And and it's cool just it's your second year
126or my second year. And just having that experience of like, hey, yeah, let's walk together. So, I just I'm I'm just so grateful uh to be starting a second year in Elsa Gundo. I I I sincerely mean that. Just such a positive start to the school year. And that concludes my report. Thank you. Uh we do not need to recess to close session. And um at this time I'd like to conclude our meeting with a moment of silence in memory of Kira Goldarb, an incredible spirit, kind friend, and bright presence in our community. We are journed.