001Great to see all of you here. This is an exciting night. Um, we have nothing to report from close session. I'd like to um announce that this meeting is recorded for live streaming and archiving on the district YouTube channel. So, um, our pledge of allegiance is going to be read by, um, Olivia Wilson, president of Matthew Turner uh, student council and Sydney Villan Noeva uh, the vice vice president and Ella Commandante who is the secretary. If you would come, if you could please stand and come up front and lead us in the pledge. >> Please stand for the pledge of allegiance. >> I pledge aliance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Thank you
002girls. That was great. >> The mission statement. >> Our vision. We are an inclusive community that cultivates an equitable and responsive commitment empowering all students to develop strong character and academic excellence to become well-rounded and engaged global citizens. Our mission in partnership with students, families, staff, and the community. We are committed to inclusive community, respecting diversity, and nurturing a safe and equitable environment. Empowered students being responsive to student needs and voices while fostering the passion for learning, collaboration, and individual expression need to reach their future ambitions. Strong character promoting social, emotional learning, integrity, mental and physical wellness, and values aligned actions. Academic excellence. Supporting and retaining a caring and well-trained staff who promote critical thinking, cultural, and technological literacy by ensuring rigorous and innovative programs. Well-rounded and global citizens offering relevant learning opportunities to help
003build a sustainable future. >> Thank you so much. >> Well done. Well done. >> [applause] >> Love those strong voices. Good job. So we come to our highlight tonight which is very special. >> I'm sorry. >> We have to approve the agenda. >> Oh, we do. Sorry. >> Yes, I am. >> I move that we approve the agenda as written. >> I'll second. supposed to be in it. >> I apologize, but we do need to remove the last um action item, which is the job description for wellness coaches. We are still uh working with uh CSEA on clarifying some of the details. >> And in addition to that, we're going to pull from the contracts uh the school services contract for the executive search and and we have a different plan. I move that we
004approve the agenda with the uh appropriate changes that we've discussed. >> I'll second. >> All those in favor? >> I oppose. Thank you. >> Now we come to our exciting highlight tonight. Dr. Jennings. Good evening, President. I'm going to take this off. Good evening, President Grubs, board trustees, superintendent Calibrace, and the BUD community. I am honored to be here this evening to present to the board for recognition some of our exceptional classified and certificated educators. Uh before I begin, I want to thank our labor union partners uh BTA uh vice president JJ Jones and CSEA President Cindy Crane for their assistance with the selection of the educators of the year for Benish Unified School District. The contribution made by our classified and certificate employees are is invaluable and we appreciate their leadership of these essential
005employee groups. So with that, I'm going to we're going to get started. Benanisha is so fortunate to have an abundance of exceptional educators who work dilig diligently every day to serve students and families in our district. Tonight, as I call up each honore, you will hear a small piece of what was shared by their colleagues in the nomination process, revealing a continued theme of dedication, positivity, and care. The honores tonight are the heartbeat of our district. We are going to present the classified and certificated educators of the year in the following order. Uh first we're going to do district administrators of the year. Then we'll do Benicia High, Liberty High School, Benicia Middle School, Joe Henderson, Matthew Turner, Robert Simple, Mary Farmer, Maintenance and Operations, and conclude with child development. So, just so everyone knows
006who's here to celebrate in what order we're going to go, um, we're going to stop and take a picture in between each honore so we can make sure to capture this special moment. And once your family member or colleague, I'm talking to our lovely audience has received their award. We ask if you want to transition to the overflow space so others can come up and be present for their uh family member or colleague. And with that, we're going to get started. And first up, let's see who comes through the door now. Um [laughter] first up is Mark Nelson. So, let's give it up for Mark Nelson. Um, Mark Nelson is in his You get to stand here and awkwardly look. No, you can face face face the crowd. Um, uh, Mark Nelson is is in
007his third year as principal of Benishia Middle School. He exemplifies outstanding secondary leadership through his impactful work with staff and students. under his leadership at Bisha Middle um he has they he has the school has demonstrated measurable and consistent gains in cast scores across all student groups in addition Mr. Nelson has cultivated positive trusting relationships with parents, staff, students, and the broader school community, transforming Benicious Middle School into the thriving learning community it is today. So, let's congratulate Mark Nelson. [applause] Okay. So, step step back, each of our honores, and then the board's going to stand up and we're going to take a little picture, capture this moment. Yeah. and um step step all the way back there because you're kind of tall. Um each of our our honores are receiving a certificate and a
008uh a little gift um of downtown dollars that can be spent at any of the wonderful places um downtown Benicia. So they have that. Thank you, Principal Nelson. Let me exit this way. Next up, we have Principal Steven Slater from Matthew Turner Elementary School. [cheering] Oh, Michelle, actually, Chris, can you come up? Chris, can you come on up? Sorry, I should have done this to give the certificates. Sorry. Yeah. Okay. Um, Principal Slater is known for his positivity and humor. Um he has been selected as the BUSD elementary administrator of the year due to his outstanding leadership and deep commitment to students, staff, and families for the past 10 years at Matthew Turner Elementary School. From greeting families and students by name each morning to maintaining a strong and visible presence across campus, he creates
009a welcoming environment where everyone feels seen and valued. His dedication to building relationships and fostering a collaborative and inclusive school community makes him a truly deserving elementary administrator of the year. Let's congratulate. [cheering] >> You're welcome. [applause] So, if you guys just want to step back and we're going to take a quick picture and step Yes. Thank you, Superintendent Calibri. >> Thank you. >> Okay. >> [applause] >> Okay, thank you. >> Next up, we are going to celebrate uh some PE uh the two from Venicia High, which I believe aren't able to make it tonight. So, as the crew exits, we're going to have principal client who's going to accept their certificates in their place. So, we have uh Pat It's possible, but the two these two are not here tonight. So, I'm thinking that
010they >> No, she's not her. Oh, no. She's accepting on their behalf. Uh Patrick Escalante, who's the custodian of the night shift. Patrick is the custodian um Abene High who takes pride in his work, which is evident in the cleanliness of his assigned spaces. He has been complimented on his work by our campus um lead custodian on multiple occasions and completed special projects at or above exception, especially as we prepared for our WASP visit and annual Williams facilities inspections. He cares deeply about our school community and brings his family to participate in our school events such as trunk or treat and festival the communad. So, congratulations to Patrick who is not here tonight, but we want to definitely take time to represent for him. [laughter] >> Oh, let's get back. Yeah. Um, unfortunately, who is
011also not present tonight is uh Andrew Phillips, who's a science teacher and department chair at Benishia High School. Students, parents, and colleagues sing Andrew's praises as an educator who demonstrates high accountability and high support for his students. As the ninth grade science teacher and AP biology teacher, Andrew wrote works with a range of grades and ages, prioritizing engaging lessons and strong communication. One of Mr. Phillips students shared, "Mr. Phillips is great at making connections with his students and supporting them." And a parent commented, "You can tell he cares about his students. He pays attention and spent time calculating how to partner in my son's success." As a teacher, Andrew Phillips frequently goes above and beyond what is required to um to do. So, congratulations to Andrew Phillips. [applause] Thank you. Next up, we have Liberty
012High School and our class. Here, here comes Principal Lewis. Give her a hand. Might as we have Christina Vega who is our classified employee educator of the year. Congratulations, Christina. Uh Christina consistently creates a welcoming and kind environment for the students at Liberty High School. Through her warmth and genuine care, she builds meaningful connections and ensures that every student feels seen, heard, and valued. We've heard that, right? That that's super critical and important. Her kindness is one of the reasons our school is a safe place for students, particularly for those who need stability and reassurance during the school day. She goes beyond providing nutritious meals. She takes the time to learn students names and intentionally builds relation relationships with them. Her presence in the cafeteria helps make it a positive, supportive place where students feel
013comfortable and respectful. Congratulations, Christina. [applause] Take a picture. Okay, congratulations, Christina. [laughter] Next up is Celeste Dakane, who's our the counselor at Liberty High School. Congratulations, Celeste. Celeste has an amazing ability to connect with our students in a truly and is truly the heart of Liberty High School's learning through interest program. Her work consistently centers students individual strengths, interests, and aspirations, helping them see the real pathway for their future. She thoughtfully organizes learning to learning to learn opportunities that align directly with each student's spark. This includes arranging visits to community college classes, bringing in guest speakers for students fields of in for um from students fields of interest and guiding students through the process of enrolling in community college. Because of her effort, students gain authentic exposure to post-secary options and begin to envision themselves
014as successful learners beyond high school. Our campus and our students are better because of her dedication and heart. Congratulations, Celeste. >> [applause] >> Okay, congratulations. >> Next up, we have Benicia Middle School Principal Nelson coming back out again. you get a second go around, Mr. Nelson. [laughter] And we are so uh pleased and honored to recognize Chisette Jackson. Come on out, Miss Jackson. [cheering] [laughter] Miss Jackson works as a special education aid in room E9. uh she has served in this capacity for for a very long time and has made an tremendous difference in the lives of multiple students. She has become more than an assistant as she and the classroom teacher have developed a strong partnership that supports students of all abilities. Miss Jackson has had a profound impact on the students she supported
015over the years. Their love and appreciation is clearly evident when visiting room E9. Congratulations, Miss Shazette Jackson. Your compassion, skill, and deep commitment make an image immeasurable difference every single day. Congratulations. [applause and cheering] [laughter] >> Yes. behind you. [laughter] >> No, you don't have >> Oh, yes. >> Oh, and Mrs. Ramirez, of course. Come on up. >> Oh. [laughter] Cong congratulations, Miss Jackson. Congratulations. Next up is Aaron Oli Montgomery. >> [applause and cheering] >> Mrs. Olirri Montgomery is a teacher at Benicia High School. She is most renowned known for um being middle school. Sorry, did I say that? U middle school. She's most known for her many years in service to the yearbook and is responsible for the production each year and my daughter can attest to that. Spent many many a day in
016her Mrs. Oly's classroom. Um she has served tirelessly as the coordinator of the uh Venicia Middle School yearbook for many years. Additionally, she's an invaluable mentor to her colleagues, fostering a supportive environment that benefits the entire staff. Her incredible ability to connect with students in a kind, caring, and um way shows how much of a dedicated teacher she is. She ensures every child receives the personalized attention and emotional support that they need to thrive. Her contribution to our school is profound. She has positively impacted countless students. Congratulations, Aaron. Larry, [applause] >> get a picture. Well, you get a picture. Congratulations, Mrs. Olri Montgomery. [applause] Next up is Joe Henderson Elementary School. Come on out, Principal Balante. here to celebrate um these wonderful classifi this wonderful classified staff is principal volante we're going to recognize Jenny
017Aravello who is the office specialist come on out [applause] this year's Joe Henderson classified staff member of the year is Jenny Arabelloo she is admired across the Henderson Hound team for her kind caring and consistency consistently welcoming presence in the front office. She brings a cheerful energy to every interaction and is always ready to help. She greets students by name, supporting their needs with patience and warmth. She handles the fast pace of the office with ease. Jenny is organized, flexible, and a quick learner who has taken on many roles. No matter the question or situation, she approaches her work with a positive attitude and a genuine desire to support others. Congratulations, Jenny. [applause] >> Georgina has it down. >> Okay, congratulations, Jenny. [applause] Next up from also from Joe Henderson is Rebecca Sher. Come on
018out, Rebecca. Congratulations, Rebecca. Rebecca is the wonderful resource specialist at Joe Henderson. She is admired throughout Henderson for her dedication, her professionalism, and deep commitment to students. Colleagues describe Rebecca as hardworking, organized, and a reliable role model who consistently steps in to help. Um, always putting students needs first. She shows exceptional understanding and flexibility, maintaining open availability for all special education students and adjusting plans as needed to support individual progress. Known for her patience, kindness, and positive can do attitude, Rebecca is well-liked by students and staff alike. She goes above and beyond every day, always with a smile. Congratulations, Rebecca. [applause] We're going to take We're going to take a picture, so step on back. Congratulations, Rebecca. Next up, we have Matthew Turner. And we Principal Slater is coming back out for a second round.
019Matthew Turner's classified employee of the year or educator of the year is Janine Otterbeck. Come on out, Janine. Janine Otterbeck is an extra extraordinary professional whose skill can Oh, hold on. Oh, hold on. I'll wait until we get everyone in as soon as we get the door closed. Yes, there we go. Thank you. Um, Janine Ottervac is an extraordinary professional whose skills, dedication, passion, and steadfast commi commitment make her an invaluable member of the Matthew Turner Elementary community. As a special education assistant, Janine works tirelessly to support students, staff, and families. Her deep understanding of best practices combined with her natural wisdom and courage allow her to navigate even the most challenging situations with grace and strength. Janine is always thinking five steps ahead, anticipating needs and creating solutions that allow students to thrive. Teachers,
020staff, and students alike agree that Janine is an essential part of what makes Matthew Turner a supportive, joyful, and successful place to learn. Congratulations, Janine. [applause] [cheering] [applause] Okay, congrat congratulations, Janine. [applause] Next up, we have Marissa Larson from Matthew Turner. Thank you for [cheering and applause] Marissa serves as the speech and language pathologist at Matthew Turner Elementary in elementary and her impeccable work ethic, depth of expertise and remarkable ability to motivate her students sets her apart as a truly exceptional educator. She is a humble champion, driven, and an exceptionally skilled speech therapist whose professionalism and commitment to students, families, and colleagues makes her an extra extraordinary asset to our school community. Marissa's impact is seen daily in her outstanding work supporting students speech and language development. She brings a rare combination of technical skill,
021gentle encouragement, and instructional finesse to her sessions. whether she's working with preschoolers developing foundational communication skills or school age students striving to strengthen articulation, language or social communication. Congratulations, Marissa. [cheering] [applause] [laughter] >> Okay. Oh, wait. Hold on. They want one more. [laughter] >> You're welcome. Congratulations, Marissa. >> [applause] >> Next up, we have Robert Simple Elementary School [cheering] with we have Principal Moore here who's here to help uh hand out the awards for uh Elizabeth Zizzy Calgill who's our student supervision aiding. >> [applause] [cheering] >> I love that you're wearing your uh uh dragon green. Right. So, uh Elizabeth, otherwise known as Zizzy Cowgirl, stands out for her unwavering dedication to students in the school community. As a student supervision aid, she ensures that lunch and recess runs smoothly while making sure students feel
022supported, safe, and cared for. She goes above and beyond by consistently communicating with classroom teachers about student behavior, both positive and areas needing support, and guiding students towards making good choices. Beyond her student interactions, she is a collaborative team player who pitches in to problem solve, finds more efficient ways to complete task and support her cal her colleagues. This is what makes Elizabeth Zizzy Cowgirl a tremendous uh uh nominee for a a classified educator of the year. Congratulations uh Zizzy. [applause] [cheering] >> [applause and cheering] [laughter] [cheering] [applause] [laughter] >> Congratulations, Izzy. >> Up next from Robert's >> Simple Christina Principal [laughter] Moore, YOU GUYS. NEXT UP, OH, she's not here, but we still, but come on up. We can receive it in her. Uh, Rebecca Lynn, who is our We'll give it a shout
023out. Rebecca uh Rebecca Lynn stands out as an innovative, dynamic, and selfless educator who consistently goes above and beyond for her students and colleagues. Rebecca creates and delivers engaging lessons that make learning fun while fostering an inclusive environment where every student feels valued. She develops meaningful relationships with her students and extends that that extend beyond the classroom, inspiring joy, enthusiasm, and a genuine love of learning. Her students consistently demonstrate growth both academically and in social emotional learning due to her patience, skill, and commitment to helping each child succeed. Beyond her classroom work, Rebecca has been instrumental in developing in expanding our DSL mortes celebration and many other school activities. So, congratulations to Rebecca. Thank you. [applause and cheering] >> Next up is we are celebrating the educator of the year from maintenance and operations. Give
024it up for director Romero. [screaming] Um, Director Romero is here to uh accept the award for Mitch Filchic. Um, Mitch has an incredible eye for detail and keeps the district office grounds and school sites looking fabulous. He has been known to research specific trees and plants to determine when's the best time to prune or shape them. His high attention to detail is evident in the district's carefully manicured lawns and shrubs. He is always focused on his work but takes the time to return a wave and say hello. So with that, we'd like to recognize Mitch as maintenance and operations educator of the year. [applause] Okay. Thank you. Oh, do we >> tell tell Mitch I said congratulations. >> Okay. Next up we have Mary Farmer Elementary School. We have >> [laughter] >> Um, we'd like
025to acknowledge uh their office specialist as the classified educator of the year, Yasmine Lea. [cheering] What distinguishes Yasm mean from others is her calmness, strength, and compassion and deep commitment to caring for students, staff, and families. She takes great pride in her work and approaches every task with professionalism and kindness. Yasmin has a natural ability to make others feel welcome and supported, creating an atmosphere of trust and belonging from the moment someone walks into the um Mary Farmer office. Yas mean play pays close attention to students needs, monitoring attendance with care, reaching out to families with empathy, and always looking for ways to support them beyond surface level solutions. Whether it's calming a student in pain or reassuring them that everything will be okay, she brings a sense of peace and compassion that comforts everyone
026around her. CONGRATULATIONS [applause] [clears throat] CONGRATULATIONS. [applause] Our next two uh educators of the year are the district's educators of the year. So, let's bring out Bethany Bar who's coming. [cheering] what does um Bethany was selected as the representative to the county teacher of the year uh process. So uh she has completed a very lengthy application and very lengthy there's like multiple mini essays that you have to write. So I appreciate all the hard work she put into that. But what distinguishes Miss Spar from others is her deep commitment to building community, fostering connection, and inspiring a love of learning. Love of learning that extends far beyond her classroom. Each day begins and ends with a family circle, an essential part of her classroom team that sort of sets the tone for belonging and respect.
027Bethany makes a consistent effort to ensure that every child feels special. Her students thrive because they know their voices matter and their teacher genuinely cares about who they are. Mrs. Bar's creativity and dedication shine through in the March Madness event that happens every year at Mary Farmer. It's a tournament of books that she co-leads each year. She carefully selects a range of diverse books, invites staff to record themselves reading aloud, and turns the experience into a joyful schoolwide celebration of reading. This tradition promotes literacy and unites students and staff through the shared joy of story of storytelling. Beyond her classroom, Miss Bar helps organize family literacy and math nights, collaborating with our student leadership team to give students opportunities to lead and shine. She is dependable um encouraging colleagues who contribute thoughtful ideas and support
028her team in countless ways. Miss Bar leads with leads with care and creativity, working hard to give her students a strong academic foundation while building connections that strengthen our entire school community. Her passion for teaching, her genuine relationships, and her commitment to creating meaningful experiences makes her an amazing educator, a true asset to Mary Farmer Elementary School and Venicia Unified. So, congratulations, Bethany. [applause] Congratulations, Bethany. [applause] And last but definitely not least is our classified Venetian Unified classified educator of the year. I'm going to introduce Erica Dudley who is the director of child development and our classified educator of the year for Benishia Unified is Marbel Romero. So come on in. [applause] Marbel stands out from others due to her unwavering commitment to creating a quality learning environment for both students and staff. She consistently
029goes above and beyond expectations to ensure her classroom is a warm, engaging space where preschoolers feel safe to explore, play, and grow. her intent her she intentionally designs learning centers and developmentally appropriate lessons not only to support students c uh curiosity but also to um increase their confidence and really specific to the unique needs of every child in her care. Her impact extends to her team and beyond her team and colleagues. She prepares her team thoroughly each day, offering clear communication, thoughtful guidance, and strong organizational systems that help her classroom run smoothly. Because of her supportive leadership, her team feels confident, valued, and able to perform at their best. Colleagues across the district will seek her out for her ideas, advice, and inspiration. She shares her knowledge generously and without hesitation, helping alleviate the practice,
030helping to influence and elevate the practice of others. She her ability to positively influence student learning while simultaneously strengthen her team and colleagues is what truly sets her apart. Congratulations, Marbel. Classified educator of the year. [applause] Congratulations to all our honores tonight. It sounds like there's a party going on outside. So, we come to um item number nine, uh student reports. So, we have Brida Sanchez and um is Freda here? Yes. No, she's not here tonight. Okay. So, Brida >> from Liberty. >> Good evening, President Grub, Superintendent Calabricier, fellow trustees and cabinet members. We are celebrating Black History Month and we will be honoring the contributions and legacies of African-Americans who have sh helped shaped our country or nation. We are planning an assembly where students will learn more about H.B.CU schools. Students will be
031showcasting their talents by performing and reciting poetry. We will have gallery walks highlighting contributors in math and science as well as creating projects that connect historical figures to modern social issues. We have we have learning through interest field trips planned for the upcoming weeks. We are visiting a fish hatchery. This hatchery is located in Golden River, California near Sacramento. The hatchery is run by California Fish and Wildfire Department. They support river and ocean fisheries by raising by raising fallrun chin hook salmon and steel head trout to replenish the depleting population. After we return back from break, we are visiting the trucking driving school in Valo. This is for parts of many students LTI programs, those that are interested in pursuing careers in transportation and automotive repair. Finally, we would want to extend a huge congratulations
032to Liberty High School staff of the year, our counselor, Miss Dane, and Christina Vega from food services. Both bring immense care and joy to our campus, making Liberty a welcoming place for everyone. On behalf of Liberty High School, thank you. >> Thank you. and Issa. >> Good evening, President Grub, Superintendent Calibesci, fellow trustees and cabinet members. In the past weeks, BHS had our annual Clash of the Classes competition week from the 26th through the 30th. Students participated in the spirit week to gain points for their classes, and class champions participated in lunch competitions leading up to the rally last Friday. The senior class ended up winning the Clash of the Classes trophy for the second year in a row. Also, last week, last Wednesday, was the last day for 8th through 11th graders to finish
033their course requests. This week, on Monday, was the spring sports info meeting. On Tuesday, leadership held our elections information meeting for prospective students. Tomorrow on the 6th, is the quarter 3 progress report where students can check their grades and areas. In the upcoming weeks, we have our ski week break from the 9th through the 13th with the 16th off for President's Day. Also on the 9th is the first day of spring sports and school resumes on the 17th. On behalf of Benicia High School, thank you. And then we come to superintendent the superintendent report. Mr. Calgary. >> Yeah. Good evening board. What a great night that was. I just my hats off to HR Pat. Excellent job. And um and and just celebrate all of our staff members. Absolutely amazing. And I just love the
034outpouring of the folks that came tonight with signs, banners, uh special hats, everything else. And and um I'm sorry I didn't get a picture next to Mark Nelson to point out how short I am next to him, but he looked really good in that suit. So to see his sons from here beaming at their dad uh getting that award was pretty special. So um pretty special night. Um, first off, uh, I went to Joe Henderson this week and I was saying earlier, you know, if you're having a tough week, go to TK and, um, to see these little learners, um, and they today they were working on, um, hearts and putting circles within the heart and, um, as the teacher want to introduce me and and trying to decide, you know, it's tough to say
035calibrers and expect them to say that back. And so, she introduced me as Miss Mr. C, but one little one spotted me, heard that, and said, "Hi, Mr. C." And I was like, what great listening skills. It was really heartwarming to see that. Uh, Matthew Turner Elementary School, uh, personal, uh, narrative writing, and I was super impressed with this, uh, um, using this chart to be able to help students as a as a writing aid. And as they were able to do some drawings on there, but also collect their thoughts before putting it into a final product. And, uh, I asked this young person if I could take a picture of it, and they agreed. And so, it was it was lots of fun to be up there. Uh, in addition, I went into, uh,
036Mrs. Sheep's class and they were learning how to solve 8 x 9 by using the break apart method and they were very proud of their work and so they decided to show it to me on their whiteboards right there. I was able to snap a picture. Uh Mrs. Shephus and I were able to share uh we were talking in Italian to one another. Uh so do and so she told me kosi so so and uh it turns out that our families are both from southern Italy and her family from from Sicily. And so the kid students were amazed that we could speak another language and we talked about the importance of learning other languages. It was lots of fun. Uh congratulations to Robert Simple spelling be winners Adam engage. They did a great job and
037and congratulations to them for winning the spelling bee there. Uh this is from Matthew Turner Elementary Steam night. U just a great event. Um I was not there. I was uh at a conference and so these pictures were sent to me by Mr. later and really appreciated the huge turnout, great support from parents and staff members and so can't say enough about it and so it was just a huge success and so my uh thanks to everyone that was involved in that and then we got to honor Jennifer Rad, first grade teacher at Mary Farmer Elementary School at the Rotary Teacher of the Month uh lunchon yesterday. And so first grade teacher extraordinaire and and I just love what Principal Fleming said. She said, "I've been waiting a very long time to give this award
038to you and to be able to sing your praises." And so phenomenal teacher. We're lucky to have her and and her support of our first grade students. And I want to thank Rotary for continuing to support um that program and honoring our teachers. It is uh National Counselor Week. And so I really appreciate that uh uh Benicia Middle School put this out there on Instagram honoring their counselors. And so I want to thank all of our counselors throughout the district for all that they do in support of our students. And um definitely very very needed. And so uh these two phenomenal ladies at Venicia Middle School always opening up their doors, always walking the hallways, always with a smile on their face whenever I see them. And so big appreciation. You know, next, our students
039did such a great job tonight reading the vision. They their voices were so so powerful. And so, I'm not going to read this to you because I'm not going to do as good a job as they did. And but I was reminded this week as uh we saw a student walk out about our vision as a school district and an inclusive community that cultivates an equitable and responsive environment empowering all students. And we want to hear students voice. And sometimes that when that comes across when you have a first amendment right, sometimes that means listening to what you don't like to hear. and and sometimes that means sharing what you need to be what needs to be said. And so I I want to thank our students that were citizens this week that uh exercised
040their voice and and they did it with civility. And for those that did, I I want to thank them. And it's important for us as we move forward as in a community, as a district, uh as a state, and a nation that we show civility to one another and we exercise our voice. and been thinking about ways of how I can get out to the high school and and hear their voice and have them voice that to me and so um have some ideas that I want to bring back um over the next couple months and so be able to hear that and uh super important for us and so I just wanted to share that. >> Thank you. >> Next we come to board reports. Would anybody like to start? >> I have a
041just a couple things. I actually got to got a chance to go to the Robert Simple spelling be which was really fun. Um watched um Adam who won first place and now he's moving on to the counting the county spelling bee in March which is pretty cool. Yeah. Um I also had the opportunity to attend um the Matthew Turner Elementary PTA meeting with the superintendent which was really wonderful to you know just listen to all of our uh community who supports um our school which is really great. And um I missed the meeting, the last public meeting last time because I went to the BHS open house which was really great and a really great opportunity to see um teachers and meet teachers and the counselors. So [music] a lot of um a lot of
042a lot of really great work out there. That's it. Um so this last uh month I was honored to participate on a panel that was organized by Andre Lewis who is the founder of lit liter uh literary engineers also a benicia resident whose three daughters went through our schools. Um uh also the American Legion Auxiliary 101 hosted the event. It was called women and girls empowerment connection and the purpose of the panel was to connect women in leadership with the uh young women who applied for girl state which is a leadership camp. I went to girl state in 1995. Dr. Jennings went to girl state just just a just a just a year before me. And um my f my fellow panelists were Carrie Birdsy, Dr. uh Gethsemane Moss and Corey Dam who teaches at
043Matthew Turner and who also went to Girl State and is now a counselor at Girl State. Lots of Girl Staters. Um we had a packed audience. It was an awesome space. Um audience members shared stories of um struggles and and how they uh you know just overcame them and and uh achieved. and we had the the girl state applicants including Miss Pilot who left but she was in there. Um there are so such tremendous women and only one can be selected unfortunately to attend girl state but I just want to say that they are all bound for great things. It was really awesome to see. Um I also had an opportunity to attend the governor's budget workshop with Miss Bington, Dr. Jennings and then Lisa Dellorifice and uh Cindy Crane from CSEA and BTA. Um
044big takeaways, this was a review of the governor's budget which we'll hear about tonight, but my big takeaways were uh that we really can't count on the state funding that we think is coming our way. And it's very very very difficult to plan um with our various timelines and it's um it's it's it's a really complicated situation. So, we'll hear more about that. Um, thank you for including me and along with our uh union representatives. I think it's really um important for us to understand how our schools are are financed. I was able to attend Logan Bay's Eagle Scout Court of Honor and I want to congratulate Logan for earning his Eagle Award and also thank you to Principal Klein Schmidt and Mr. Shields for being there to support Logan. It's great when we see
045um staff out there in the community supporting our students. Um last but not least, I attended the Matthew Turner Steam night. It was packed. Um everybody was engaged in in activities. And then last but not least, the budget advisory meeting earlier this week, which um President Grubs made. Are you going to talk about that one? >> I was there >> briefly. >> There you [laughter] go. That's it. briefly. Um the budget advisory committee is is made up of um board members, superintendent, um administrators, parents, and on Tuesday, we had the um I guess the privilege of of really sitting down together and brainstorming together and looking at what we have we do have to cut. Um, but it was a very collaborative process um, led by Superintendent Calabrace and it was so collaborative but it's
046still very sad. It it it's nothing that any of us want to do and I think that's really important for um, all of us to remember is that we are in deficit spending. We do have to make cuts to our budget. None of it is easy and it is heartbreaking. So, I just want to say that I didn't this is a night of celebration. I didn't want to say too much about about the budget. So, we'll go on. Does anybody else have Mark Sherry? Okay. Um, so we come to comments from the public. In the meantime, I'll read the little blurb that we need to read. Members of the public may address the board at regular at a regular meeting on any item within the board's jurisdiction. Speaker cards are available on the entrance table.
047Please note the item you wish to speak to and submit a card to the board secretary. The board president will call all the open session general comments government code 54954.3 um during the public comment item. Comments for items on the agenda will be called for during the specific item. Comments are limited to no more than three minutes per speaker or the board may limit the total time to 20 minutes per item with the timer displayed on the monitors. By law, no action can be taken or any item raised during the public comment period and matters may be referred to staff for placement on a future agenda of the governing board. Please be reminded to keep your comments respectful as students may be watching the board meeting. Thank you. Do we have any? We do not.
048Going moving on, we are at item number 11, approval of the consent calendar. So background information on these items is provided to the board prior to the meeting. A common motion takes takes action without discussion on roll call votes unless discussion of items is requested by the board members. So, um, is is this just an allencompassing vote except for the >> It is an all-encompassing vote, but we do have resolutions that will be called, but I do want to clarify that I heard at the beginning the contracts were being pulled. This is where we need to pull them. So, I just want to for the record say the contract listing, it's the two school services contracts that are being pulled, >> correct? >> Okay. So, that's where I'll make note on that. And we're going
049to approve it without those two contracts. So, um, you want to go ahead and ask for a motion? >> Um, can I have a motion to to approve the, um, consent calendar, please? >> I'll make a motion to approve the consent calendar as written. >> Not as written. >> Oh, with changes. >> With with a couple changes. And this is a roll call vote. So, President Grebs, >> yes. >> Trusty Hirs, >> yes. >> Trusty Seda, >> yes. >> Trusty Melli, >> yes. >> Trusty Manos, [music] >> yes. >> Thank you. And then we'll go down to the resolutions >> to um item 11G, approval of resolution number 25-26-27, declaration of obsolete property for Mary Farmer Elementary. >> President Gri, >> yes. >> Trusty Hirs, >> yes. >> Trusty Seda, >> Trusty Melli, >> yes.
050>> And Trusty Manassi, >> yes. Thank you. And we come to 11H, approval of resolution number 25-26 just 28, declaration of absolute library media material for Mary Farmer Elementary. >> President Gres, >> Trusty Hirs, >> yes. >> Trusty Seda, >> yes. >> Trusty Miselli, >> yes. >> And trusty Mos, >> yes. and approval of resolution number 25-26-29. Declaration of obsolete items for Venicia High School. >> President Grez, >> yes. >> Trusty Hirs, >> yes. >> Trusty Seda, >> yes. >> Trusty Miselli, >> yes. >> And Trusty Manoski, >> yes. Thank you. >> And finally, we come to approval of resolution number 25-26-31, declaration of obsolete tech equipment. President Grizz, >> yes. >> Trusty Hirs, >> yes. >> Trusty Seda, >> yes. >> Meli, >> yes. >> And Trusty Manos, yes. >> And now we come
051to item number 12. And Superintendent Calibi, you're up. >> So sorry. First reading of our um um Sorry, I get myself squared away here. first reading of our recommended California School Board Association board policies from January 2026. Um, and we have reviewed these and so this is before you today for a first reading. >> Oh, we don't approve here. >> That was straightforward. >> All righty. Then we come to 12B facilities fees governing board requested followup. Superintendent Cali. >> Yeah, good evening again. So, uh I think I brought this to you uh several months ago. We talked about facility fees and so uh what we've done here is um I have a couple proposals for you tonight to to move forward with and get some uh feedback from. And so just a background, who's got
052the clicker? >> I think I might be able to manage it. Yeah, kick me if I miss a slide. Right. So, um just background civil the civic center act and so that we that our facilities have to be open to nonprofits and to youth and organizations in our community, right? And then we have to have a fee structure that goes with that, right? And then and then also things that happen on our school site shouldn't go against um basically our vision or that are going to they need to be in support of our students. And so the second slide here is really about um key factors for us to consider. They have to be aligned with our board policy 1330 and 1325 which again reiterates that that civic uh service and and support of our
053community and support of our our students. And then um in addition to uh having that fee process uh for any type of outside vendors and things like that, these are there's ongoing district costs to our facilities and running our facilities, right? And so for an example here uh to replace the stadium um astroturf would cost us about $975,000 right so nearly a million dollars and and that will will last about 20 to 25 years an astroturf right obviously there's cost benefits to putting in astroturf because that reduces our water bill um no no mowing uh things like that right um we have to remember that when we don't charge for custodian we can't do that because it's gift of public funds. And so, um, we have to be conscious of that. Um, I will say
054that in my exploration of this, there's lots of opportunities to partner here. And so, that's really what I want to talk to you about, and I I keep saying this and I'm going to keep saying it because I believe it really to be true. Benia is right for partnership, right, for partnership with our nonprofits, right for partnership with with the city and other agencies. And so, I think we need to seize that opportunity. Um, if we do, based on some of the proposals that I have for you tonight, we would need to make a change to board policy, um, suggesting in one of the proposals that we break it up from free use to direct cost recovery use, fair rental value, and commercial. And I'll explain that as we go through it. Um, but we
055also have keep in mind adherence to contract language. And so, in other words, when we have a CSEA member, a custodian, u, we can't replace their work, right? We can't have someone volunteer. We certainly can help. we certainly can support but but we can't um that person that's their job and that's and we have to make sure that they do that work right um and then we have to keep in mind the mutual support of our students and programs and so supporting our venicious students is what I heard from you and so when a program supports our students then we want to be supportive of that nonprofit or that that program and so I'll take you through this uh this process here uh this was our fee schedule currently uh for nonprofits and for for
056commercial. One of the things that I had hoped was that we had enough commercial business that maybe it could offset the cost for our nonprofits, but it's simply not true. We don't get a lot of commercial uh vendors using our facilities and so that's not going to be an option for us to increase commercial fees in order to offset the nonprofit fees. This was the comparison I shared with you before about uh our fields and and the costs of them. Um I explored others beyond that and it's really tough because we have a very unique stadium that others do not. Um and then as our fields are changing uh to compare them to some of the other fields out there we really can't. And so this is a fair representation of surrounding area that has
057in many cases like fields than us and in some cases not. Uh this is the fee structure for the stadium and as I looked around and I also looked into Konasa County very very similar fee structures um depending on the age of the field and so we see that $150 per hour price or or higher um on those newer fields especially with astroturf and then lower when it is a field that just hasn't been updated. So I shared this with you last time that the the PTG rates we we don't charge our PTO's PTAs for facilities. We do charge for the custodial fee if it is outside of regular workday or requested because of that um the fact that that it would be a a gift of public fund. Um but I do want to
058point out and I think it's in another slide that Cindy works really hard to work with those nonprofits and PTGs and PTAs to say okay do you really need two custodians? You know let's look at the hours here. if you had this on a Friday during the the end of the school day, but during their shift, we wouldn't have to charge you. You know, does this have to be a Saturday event? And so, she really walks through that process with them to to reduce that. I don't know that that has in the past always been done consistently, but I can say that Cindy has worked really hard to make sure that she's doing that. Uh nonprofit, uh we charge reduced rate, the custodial fee piece, and then forprofit, we have the charge commercial rate. Um
059and then the last piece there we not charge for custodians for any group it is during our regular work time. So current fee structure PTG nonprofit commercial and so not charged facilities nonprofits are charged for a reduced rate commercial charged for a commercial rate and then the piece about staff and that staff could be a custodian that staff could be a campus supervisor. It just depends on the event, right? So, here's proposals. So, proposal A is a breakdown from those three categories of PTG rates, nonprofit, and commercial to a fourth category. And I didn't label them except by the uh by the cost. And so, a free use. So, RPTA, PTGS, PTO, work to reduce the cost of the custodial part. And then direct cost recovery. And that's language that comes out of um board
060policy. And so there's a staff fee and cost of supplies. So that one, what we would do there, and what I'm proposing is that if you want to go this route, um, we would have a preferred list of nonprofits that we work with. So that's looking at our students. So you have a program like a great example is the church across the street from Benicia Middle School, right? We use their parking lot. They feed our students every morning, right? They need to use our facility. they would be on a preferred list and we would do basically a fee structure that's reflective of that. Right? And then the fair rental value, that's where we're charging for the nonprofit rate, but we're amorizing in order to consider the the impact of them being there, right? And so
061you add in an additional fee per per our contract and fair rental value, fair rental value um for the impact that that will have that day and then the commercial use. So the fair rental value is really what we're doing right now with our nonprofits. The difference here would be that dis that direct cost recovery. Um that piece there would we would have a preferred list of nonprofits. So what's the difference? You have this preferred list of nonprofits. So what if there's a nonprofit from outside of our area that wants to come in and do do something. They want to hold a track event at the stadium. Well then that would be a fair rental value, right? And not the discovery because it's not necessarily our kids. That would be students coming from outside the
062area, right? and there's impact to that and so um but it's still adjusted race as a rate as opposed to a commercial use rate since they are a nonprofit. So feel free to stop me and ask questions but that that's my first proposal. The second one I got a little bit more creative here is I started exploring um districts in Southern California. So same fee structure PTGA PTG PTO PTA I'm going to get confused on that one. Uh we don't charge for facilities. we continue to charge and try to work to reduce the custodial piece or campus supervisor. Um, and then the nonprofit rate instead of that um, having that split out where we have the preferred group, what I'm proposing here is a is a a wave reduced. Wow, I don't know how I
063did that one. I'm not sure what a wave reduce is, but um, we would reduce the nonprofit rate for inind support. Yeah, I guess so. Thank you, Yanni. I appreciate your humor. Uh, and then the commercial rate would stay the same. And so let me explain what I mean by uh the reduction here. So um play benicia. So play benanisha it stands for partnership for learning activity and youth. You know I did use gemini for this one. I was trying to come up with a creative way but this is something that I was exposed to actually in an agricultural uh use and it's giving credits um for to a nonprofit in in a partnership. And so the the concept behind is the district may offer facility use credits through the partnership of learning activity youth
064play allowing nonprofit organizations to offset facility fees by providing documented district approved student programs and services. So what am I talking about? Well, let's say Arsenal Soccer wants to come in and they want to teach um a PE class to our K3 students, right? Right now our teachers teach PE kindergarten through third grade. Well, what if Arsenal came in once a week and did that, right? in support of that classroom teacher. Classroom teacher still there because we need a credential teacher to be there, right? But one of the toughest things as a as a primary uh elementary teacher is getting those PE minutes in and going out and doing that and when you have someone that can support that work. So then we would give them a credit for that time and then we'd offset
065the cost of facility based on that. We would have to figure out a schedule based on that. Right? So lunchtime inter mural sports at Benanishia Middle School, if an organization came in and offered that to us, then we would offset the fees for their program. It's also behooves them because those are their students and potential students for them to join their program, right? Um and then our special education classes doing PE with our special ed kids. I can't emphasize that enough. And so to come in and work with our Pearl students and other programs, right, at the elementary or middle school, um maybe this is once a week, maybe it's once a month, whatever, whatever the case may be. PE supplies and donations. I had a conversation with Christine Christina Moore and she was talking
066about how, you know, the the the soccer balls disappear and the bouncy balls disappear, right? And um and so if a you know when they're bulk buying for their program if they can throw in extra balls for us too and then we would take that evaluation of that monetary value and offset the cost of the facility. Um a tryyout clinic I think is just a great way for for nonprofits in the area to be able to introduce their programs to our students. Um, but it also allows us to um whether do a PE or noon time activity and it involves kids, right? Um, I don't think this just pertains to sports. I think this could pertain to music and arts and so and then another piece of this and this was really I got to
067give credit where credit is due. Alfredo said this to me that, you know, these nonprofits in the area employ a lot of our own students as referees and assistant coaches. And so it almost becomes like a CTE program within this. And so to kind of explore that um that avenue and you know these students maybe not going to go on to coach in the NFL, but maybe they are going to go in and become a PT someday, right? and and and maybe they are going to go on and play ball in in a college and be able to put that on a resume that they were doing this. And so we give credit to those organizations that are employing our own students. What that structure looks like, it would probably be a Google doc. They
068would fill it out. We would confirm with the site leaders that that is actually happening and and and get some sort of documentation um so that we could we could give is it dollar for dollar? I don't think that would be wise, but I do think we could offset their fees um based on some sort of percentage or um yeah, basically offset on a percentage. So, yes, questions. >> Who is going to determine what those fees are? Is it going to be a department? Is it going to be like who's going to determine I get it. It it has to do with the space what the space that they're requesting and I guess the amount of student or kids and adults that will be attending these events, but who who determines that? Is there going
069to be a I know you said fech schedule, but like we can't deviate from for one to the other. So, correct. >> I just want to make sure that it's all it's across the board. >> Yeah. Sure. No. and and that fee schedule already exists for us about what the cost is for the facility. I'm not suggesting we change that. I think we keep it at the rates we have, but we would have to I would work with with Alfredo, with Cindy, with others and get together and have a meeting about what does that look like for this exchange piece, right? And establish what is dollar for dollar, hours for hours, what that looks like and and then establish it. But and so if you give me that direction tonight, that's what I would next
070explore. But that you're absolutely right because it cannot change and and and u we can't it can't vary from group to group or sport to sport or program to program right we need to be consistent but at the same time I want to have some creativity there because someone may be think of an idea that I have not and come to us and say we'd like to do this program and I don't know kazoos and so and and and and offset by having a kazoo program at lunch right and um ukuleles actually are very very popular so um but you know but we would have to establish ahead of time what that looks like. And so whether that's based on hours or based on a monetary value, I think that's how we keep it simple.
071>> Um, another qu I had a question. You you anticipated most of my questions, so thank you. But one question I have and I love this idea. Um do would we have discretion over who we partner with and who we don't? For so for example um with our flyer um policy we allow if we allow one flyer from one organization we allow them from all organizations. If we do this model is there do we do do we lose discretion over who we partner with or can we have some discretion there? >> Yeah. You know, I think we still have to have that discretion. I think that's already spoken to in our board policy as far as those nonprofits that benefit our students in our community. And I think that's our primary piece that we start
072with. So, really, really good question. >> We would have to approve those flyers. Correct. They would have to swing through the district. >> Correct. >> Okay. >> Interesting. Very interesting. >> Are there any more questions? I just want to acknowledge and um the work that you put into this. So, thank you very much. It's greatly appreciated. We've been asking for this for a while. So, really appreciate the time that you've taken and sort of the out of the box approach that that you've looked at. So, thank you. Thank you very much. >> You're very very welcome. Again, I think we're ripe for partnership. And um what I the feel that I don't like is when folks feel like um somehow um if you're in this program in Benicia, then the school district doesn't see you
073as a positive. And I want to build that relationship. It's not seen that way anymore, right? That these are our students that they're serving ultimately, right? And as one of you pointed out, students come to us and play soccer here from other communities. We have about 58 homes for sale. And so if we want to attract those parents to our community, right, eventually then I think it behooves us to to look at avenues that show them what a great district this is, right? So yeah, and and again, in Southern California, they're doing lots of different programs um like this. So yeah. >> Um I'm sorry, just I just had a quick one. I was thinking about the new funds that have that Bachmed has um released for application for grants and I wonder if some
074of our lighting if that could be switched out to more energy efficient lighting because I don't think they're LEDs. I think they're pretty expensive >> to run. Just a thought. >> Oo, that's even even the middle school because we've talked so much about the middle school um with lighting and that going back and forth about not having lighting. Yeah, as you know, I've sent out um the information about the uh grant superintendent's grant committee. Um I think we have six applicants now. Um and so uh we'll be moving forward with a meeting here coming up, I think the 26th, and we're going to explore that grant and look at what our options are. Part of that is definitely um supporting the environment, right, by reducing energy costs um and being more efficient. Part of that
075is to support the health of our students and community. And part of that grant goes um to moving um families or um employees, I say that generally, right, as a Valero employee away from the oil industry and into other industries, right? And so we're going to explore each of those options. I think what's key for us is as we have some budget constraints that we look at ways that we can offset our general fund, right, long term, and then also things that we can do that are going to extend our bond, right, and and go beyond it, right? Like for instance, one of the things that we were talking about today with Trudy and Roxan and I were talking about the windows in our district, right? Pretty energy inefficient, right? You look at the windows,
076whether you're at Matthew Turner or or Mary Farmer at the high school, right? And so about $2,000 to replace a window. And so you're looking at a $10 million project, right, to replace the windows in this district u with the exception of this building. And so exploring that though, right, because the energy savings there could be significant for us, right? our water bill is another one that's really really high. What are some things that we can do to explore reducing our our water bill, right? I don't know, you know, I don't know if that this this grant will solve uh all of those issues, but we certainly can explore uh many of them. And it's a portfolio grant, so we we will put multiple things into that grant and they can line item out which
077ones they don't approve. Okay. >> Do you envision um like and maybe I missed this so apologies but creating you know agreements or contracts with some of our nonprofits that then that gives them you know I I guess like the transparency of you know from both angles or from both sides. Um also just establishing oh the the amount of use that one organization might request to use. Yeah, it's a really really great point and and really Sherry hit on that earlier and I meant to answer it then. So I think when you create a schedule like that and you're doing those trading, I think it would be really important for us to create either anou or something like that. And that would be if you move ahead and tell me go ahead and look at
078plan B here then um or I guess my two proposals were B and C. I don't know one and two. I'm not sure now but uh um then uh I would talk to legal about what that would look like, right? um you know there's a debate out there about anou versus a contract um and what's enforcable right and so I'd want to make sure that we put something together but you know it's got to be mutual beneficial obviously for both parties but great point >> and you know the other I I feel like I heard this from your your explanation about um custodial fees but you know for I know that there's two PTGs Joe Henderson and Robert Simple that use um that have community events on the weekend which require the custodian. Is there
079an opportunity for them to I know that they're responsible groups like clean up and do everything themselves or does does a custodian have to be there? I realize somebody from the school has to be there and it's usually the principal but and does do custodians have to be there? Yeah, for emergency purposes, a custodian has to be there because if there's a broken water line, gas leak, right, a fire, something like that, we need to have we need to have someone that can be responsive to that, right? And um and know where all those things are to shut them off, right? Where I would say what would be really really helpful is if you have a a parents club team that sweeps the campus to clean up, then that's less overtime ultimately, right? And that
080that custodian is pretty much leaving when the parents are leaving as opposed to still being there an hour or two afterwards which adds to the cost >> which is also one versus two. >> Yes. >> Yeah. Exactly. Because obviously you cut your cost in half. >> What I did as a site principal often was we always had a cleanup crew. We swept the campus and for our events and and then our custodian was typically leaving with us because we were done. >> I I I I I don't necessarily have like um thoughts A versus B. Um but I think that they're they're both great. Um I guess the the be the big difference is the inind, right? >> Correct. >> Okay. >> And they're not opposed to one another like they can work simultaneously. >>
081I think simultaneously that's >> my feedback. >> Okay. Well, I'll continue to pursue this and look into it further. >> Thank you for this. So now we come to item 12 C and Mrs. Bington you are up. I'll say good evening um board superintendent calibrace cabinet members and the public. On January 9th, the governor released uh his final budget um proposal as governor. He actually had a state of the the union the night before and basically released all the details and the next day his staff on the 9th actually released it. Uh he focused on um highlighting the things he has done as governor that's brought into the state. Um, at the same time, what wasn't necessarily discussed is that a governor who uh gained office with a surplus of funds, the state is not
082in the same situation. And so there are challenges uh with the budget most definitely at the state level. One of the things that um has been highlighted is in 2627 this the state has um monies still to do all the the various um projects and um one-time things they want to do. What is concerning is what happens in 2728 and 2829. And so the legislative analyst office differs with with the governor on how much money is truly available and what the deficit might look like between the two. So it is the uh ongoing $22 billion conversation. Also if the stock market swings at all it it could have a significant impact on the budget. So that is one of the things that was highlighted. So, what does that do for us in education? Because that's
083statewide. Um, our largest funding is Proposition 98. You know, currently we are supposed to receive 40 cents of every dollar that comes um that is within the budget. But there are some challenges. Uh there is overall declining enrollment statewide. So, fewer students reduces the funding. uh there is deficit spending at the state local level and we have this second year of um the [music] word maneuver's been used um but what it is is there's a settle up that will be owed to education um I don't know that owed is the right word there's a settle due so not all of the funding of the 40 cents of every dollar is actually in the budget to come to education What this what can be done is Proposition 98 can be suspended. So if they're not going
084to meet the 40 cents in every dollar, they suspend it and it creates an IOU bucket. When they don't suspend it, it creates a settle responsibility, but that doesn't necessarily mean the dollars come one for one to to the local entities. It can negate future deferrals. um make sure the state as a whole maintains solveny. So this last year it was 1.9 billion the 20 this current year 26 27 it's 5.6 that's not being distributed down to the local level. Kind of spoke a little bit ahead of changing the slide on you. Sorry. Um but of the funding 71% it's going to come to education. 29% is going to go on the rainy day fund. Remember in this current year the rainy day fund had to be used um to to keep the budget at
085what it's at. And so there is a requirement to go back into it. Um but there is this $5.6 6 billion. That is the unknown of how the state is going to address that deficit to us. Based on that information, we have funding factors for our local control funding formula, which is our major funding source out of Proposition 98. And as you can see, um, on average, it it's about $13 and a half,000 per student that a district similar to us, base and supplemental, would receive. Now, I know there's a lot in the news that says that it's that students will be funded at $20,000 a student. That's every funding source put together. That's not the majority funding source. So, yes, there's there's add-ons with restricted funds, but this is the unrestricted dollars that we
086get. Benicia sees roughly 12,800 per student. So, we're not quite at at the average, and that just has to do with our um enrollment in our ADA makeup. In the governor's budget, one of the programs we do have here, our ELOP, our expanded learning opportunities program, um there is a proposal to increase the rate to amount. So, we fall in the rate two category. We have less than 55% of unduplicated. So, if you look at that center column where it says 2526 and it says the rate of $1,575 per unduplicated pupil, that is what is in the current year budget. That is not what we are funded at in rate two. Rate one, those those districts that meet that are getting that dollar amount. Districts in rate two are receiving uh $1,283. So it's while
087it's in there to be that dollar amount, that's not what's actually coming to us to do our program. So then that taking that highlight in 2627, the budget is proposing $1,800 per unduplicated student to run the ELOP programs. Um we will be cautious in our projections because the last thing in the world you want to do is budget for $1,800 a student and you get 1,200. So, uh, we will continue to work with our afterchool programs to make sure that, um, we plan accordingly. Since this is the in 2627 that the state does have funds, they were they will do a second time as proposed for um some more one-time funds to kind of backfill the things you can see in this graphic. uh there's an estimate that it could be $51248 per ADA. If
088that is how it is distributed, then well, we will receive some restricted one-time dollars to do some of these things you see on the screen and we will work with providing you information if we are funded this on how we can set. You remember back many many years ago when all the CO dollars came out, we got what was called the learning recovery emergency block grant. They sent all the money to us and then at the end of the year when the year was over, they said, "Well, actually, we're going to take some of it back, but it this is an IOU to us." So, it was supposed to be over three years this current year plus two more to repay back that money that was withheld. They're actually able to repay us within two
089years. So for us it's just under 300,000. Um it requires an assessment to be done by ED services and to write it directly into the LCAP and then the LCAP will speak to how these [music] funds can be utilized. So those those will be reflected in the 2627 budget even though in the current year we have the money all this background work has to be done first before we can actually spend it. Um along with presenting um projections for the 2627 we did get updated information regarding what COLA might look like in the outy years. What I would like to highlight is when the 2526 budget was adopted by the state they projected for 2627 that cola would be 3.02%. Cola now is being projected for 2627 at 2.41%. Same thing occurred in 2526. The
090cola that you see highlighted there for 27 28 28 29 they're also lower than their previous projections. So, this is one of the things we need to be cautious of is that we do build our multi-year budgets based on these revenue projections and then as they're decreased by a half to 1% the revenues then then disappear but your expenditures do not unless there's something planned for. >> Can I ask a question about the caler employer rate on >> Yes. >> Why does the percent seem to vary each year. >> Calsters is consistent. >> So, uh, both have boards. Calsters has a commitment to a rate not to change for now, unless they were to take action to do so. Kalpers meets every year to establish the rate based on how the funds are invested and
091how they're producing. Um, what is positive about the Kalpers rate is you don't see a rate above 27%. There were 27 and 28% projections in the outy years. So it looks like investments are doing better. Um but these are still significant percentages. The longer you've been in education, you used to see singledigit percents right here. And so this is the percent of salaries of each of these categories that that fund retirement systems. No matter what is done at the state level, our district is going to have escalating costs. This is something that happens on the natural. We have step and column as an ed code. Um health benefit caps are negotiated [snorts] but oftent times there is um a lot of lobbying to increase it. Um utilities are ever increasing. Um, this is this is
092something we even talked about at the budget advisory committee, like what what could we save if doors are closed while heating and air conditioning is on. Can there be a reduction? Um, if we're conscientious of when we're watering, when we're running things. Um, so those are things we're going to look at. Uh, insurance premiums are climbing. um you know they're they're directly related to the cost of replacing and things the district has some ability to monitor but can't get away from having these increases imposed on them. So all of those items you see there in that top bullet those happen whether we get an increase or not and so they're really the first call on the COLA dollars you get and then we also have negotiation that has a call for those dollars. So that's
093the challenge in building into the budget to ensure that we stay fiscally sound. Last slide before questions. Um in the multi-year projection, it's always important to remember that assumptions plus dis today's decisions equal projections and pro projections are not forecasts or predictions. they are based on the best information you have at the time and have to be adjusted as things adjust. So, more to come. Um items we do now know as far as cola um will be incorporated into second interim and then in May the governor will re release his May revise. Um it's been stated this is a workload budget. So basically copied from one to the next and anything that needs to be adjusted will be adjusted. It's hard for our local um LEAs because you're also having to approve your budget before
094you know what's really going to happen. >> Do you have any further questions or discussions about the proposed governor's budget for 2627? >> Appreciate. >> No, thank you. I do have I wanted to ask do we know how that 1.9 billion that was withheld or settled up from last year >> back to us? >> Yeah. Do we know what they're how they're going to settle up? >> So there's no proposed deferrals. Um it's an accounting strategy that the state likes to use. They give us June's money in July, so it counts in the next year, but we have to count it in the year it happens. Um so that that would mean it it's being spread over numerous years to give it back. Also put money back in the rainy day fund that's required. Um
095so it's not that it's we're going to get an additional amount per ADA that shows up. That's not happening. That that's why it's often called the maneuver. It also changes what the the floor is because if you if you're supposed to have $100,000 that's distributed, but you keep 10,000 of it, the new floor is less and then you're only adding cola to the new floor as opposed to the floor it should have been. So, we prefer when they suspend it, well, we prefer when they fund it, but prefer when they suspend it because it's an IOU. >> Um, when it's not suspended, it's it's utilized the best way they can to keep the the solvent. >> Trudy gave a really nice technical answer. My non-technical answer and and um is that we don't know when
096that money is coming to us. We don't know what form that money is coming to us and we don't know how much of that money is coming to us, right? It could come back to us in one time monies. It could come back through something else, right? Um and they could take a percentage of that in in a different way, right? And so my uncle Guido calls that something else besides a maneuver. Um, and so it is incredibly impactful, right? And that is why folks label it the maneuver. Um, and it's it's unfair to the schools in California to do something like that. And I get the the the state has a date a budget deficit and the impacts that that has. Uh, but when you have a Prop 98 that promises those dollars to
097schools and then you maneuver it away, but then you turn around and tell tell the people of California that you're fully funding schools, then you're not telling the truth. clear and none of it's good news but but thank you for your clarity and your specifics. So you are still up because we are at 12D projected enrollment for the 26 27th school year. So, forgive me if I don't have good news. I just have honest news. >> Oh, well said. [laughter] >> So, every year at this time after you hear about the governor's budget, we present to you what we believe will be our enrollment for next year. And the methodology used to determine this number is taking each grade and moving it up to the next. So, your kindergarters become first graders and so on
098and your 12th graders exit. Um, if your kindergarten class is equal to your 12th grade class exiting, you might stay flat. Um, when it's not, as we've seen, our kindergarten class is shrinking. And so, as it moves up, there are less students at each grade level. This this is a trend. This is showing you from 20112 to current um how our enrollment has been in Benicia. Um and what we do not know is is 2526 a blip or not? A and what is going to happen as um some major changes happen in our city with Valero closing and our um known information we know about students being released from surrounding district districts to attend in Benicia. So what you see before you is a projection of a decrease from our current 4,45 students to next
099year we believe we will have 4,216. [music] What this represents is all kids being cohorted up at each grade level and then um taking into account at our IDA renewable grade levels kindergarten 6th and 9th we are not making assumptions that those will automatically happen. We're building in conservatively except for our families who work within Benicia and are here on the Allen bill. Those students are part of these counts. >> What percentage of the other IDAs are you taking out? >> We're not taking out from other districts, just our known um neighboring city, Valo. So, just at the kindergarten um sixth grade and 9th grade level. >> We're assuming that Valo is not going to release the non >> Allen bill. Yeah, >> we may get some, but what Valo has stated is they will
100release 1% of their enrollment outside of their district. Um, we are one of a few districts that receive students from Valleo, which is about if they stay a 1% 80 to 90 kids being released. Okay. Thank you. >> So, we're being conservative at the grade levels that require um IDA renewal for our district per our board policy. >> Was Was that So, the number that you just gave, was that Allen bill or was that outside the Allen bill? >> The 4,216 include our Allen bill. >> Right. Right. But then you said that um there was 1%. That's what Valleo is saying. Families that come to them requesting um release that they will release 1%. >> But those are not Allenville students. >> That is my understanding. It could be. I mean, >> you know, I
101don't know that we know that. >> Yeah, >> that's a great question, but I don't know that Valo is clear on that either, whether they're counting Allen Bill or not in in that. One of the things that we asked of them is if they would give us a list of who they've denied and and they did not want to share that with us and so um you know and for whatever reason. So that's that's a good question but I'm not sure they know. >> So the assumption and keeps the Allen bill students as remaining within Benia. I also want to highlight our birth rate for the incoming kindergarten class is less than 200. So, our projection is we believe we're going to have greater than 200 um kindergarteners, but we're going to have to to
102watch and really follow our um enrollment and open enrollment is open. So, please register your students. >> I have a question. So, our board policy, our um interd district transfers have to apply at three stages in their educational journey basically, but I thought Valo's policy was that they have to apply for release every year. Is that correct? And if that's correct, does that mean that we could potentially see a loss of more students who are not being released to go outside of our our schedule? >> The short answer is yes. And that would be drastic to our [music] district. >> Yes. And we don't believe that will happen all in one year. Okay. So, some of this is hope, some of this is best. And can that policy be yearly? Is does a district have
103the ability to set the policy however they want? There's no other state law. >> That's correct. They can make that yearly. We don't have an agreement as a county between all the school districts as for that and so other counties sometimes do. Um so they can just like they changed the Allen bill uh language to say 35 hours whereas the Allen bill says 10 hours and our board policy says 10 hours. So those families can then appeal to the county board and um and their argument would be that the Allen bill the law says 10 hours. So then the county board would then have to make the decision whether or not they approve or or deny that. So >> this is the enrollment being used as of right now in the multi-year projections and moving
104forward in the projection for the 26 27 year. One positive thing to remember is we are funded based on ADA of current prior or the three-year average prior whichever is greater. So currently this looks like our 2526 year will have the highest amount of ADA. We have more students. I'm still attending only 94 and a half% of the time. So greater attendance does equal more revenue, but that likely will become what we're funded on next year. Um which gives us a little time to plan more. Okay, now we come to action items number and Dr. Beatson. >> Good evening, President Grubs, trustees, cabinet members, superintendent calibrace. I'm very excited to bring this um uhou to you. It is um a partnership uh between the Salano County Office of Education and um Phoenicia Unified. They have
105some additional grant funding that needs to be spent over the it's only one year for next year. Um they have called us and asked because they like our wellness program that we have and would we be willing to partner with them where they could fund up to four at a particular rate. uh wellness coaches. And so um those are folks who have completed uh between 150 and 300 hours of related service in the field. So doing the work perhaps that they've currently done or somewhere else. They either have an associates or bachelor's degree. So there was a little more uh work that they needed to do. And they apply for a wellness coach certificate. um and that would be um for one year and they could uh fund up to four of those positions. And
106so um there would be some other requirements. One would be that they would start to bill, and I think I've talked about this before, to the California Youth Behavioral Health Initiative, which is a new state law, which says that mental health services that students receive in school, and there's a whole variety of people that can provide those services, different services, can bill private insurance companies with parent permission, uh, to recoup some of the money. It does not affect the parents co-pay. Parents have no cost. Parents can still receive the ser uh not parents receiving the service. Sorry about that. Students could still receive the service if parents decline to provide their uh uh insurance information. We have a lot of families that have already provided it. We're in the training and setup process. Um but
107these uh positions are able to bill for their service. So um I bring to you this u memorandum of understanding for your consideration and approval. >> It's exciting. >> Any questions? >> I the individuals that we currently have in the wellness centers will they does this apply to who we currently have? >> They the position um we had to pull this evening the next action item because we're still working on the job description. So the position has changed a a bit uh to include some additional things. So though they are absolutely welcome to apply for those and some of them already have a coaching a wellness coach certificate in and because we've been doing this work with um California youth behavioral health initiative kibbe for short. Um so they we got them all to um
108get the certification. Well, most of them, >> if I read correctly, it said something about that there would be someone who would lead or direct the coaches >> because they are a classified position and they're not a clinical position. Um, we have to have someone sort of be their supervisor. Just as we have interns, they have a supervisor. >> And who would that be? >> Um, it would be someone in our district that has a um what is it? A marriage family health. I'm going to say it wrong. Yes. Thank you. like one of the psychologist >> could be a protect psychologist. Yes. >> So essentially we're set up. >> Yes. >> Be able to implement >> and there's no additional cost to the district. This is all funded entirely >> for one year. >>
109One year. >> What what this would allow us to do is really we're we're we should be able to start billing this spring. Um, we're hopeful to be able to do that, but it would give us some more time to recoup some money. The wellness center coach billing is not a a lot of money. Um, but depending on who's doing the billing and what service they're providing, there's all different rates just as if you were to go to >> and where would they be? Would they be all across the the district? That's yeah, that's something we'd have to figure out once we >> Okay. >> Once this is approved and we have the >> But it's up to four. So, we don't technically have to do four, right? >> Any other questions? >> Is there
110a motion? >> I move that we approve theou with >> second. I'm all those in favor. So and then we come to item 13B which is pulled >> which was pulled so sorry. Okay. Well, in that case, it is 7:44 and we are going to adjourn our next >> Can I ask for something to be put on another agenda in the future or do you have to close that out first? >> Okay. [laughter] I um would like to ask that um on um an agenda in the near future that we talk about the reserve policy um and we we talk through that and just get a better sense. I'd like a better sense in terms of if we can change that um that that [clears throat] language and verbage as we think through budgeting and
111um the coming months that we have. >> Absolutely. We can do that. Bring it back. >> Okay. So again, thank you to our honores and our next regular meeting is Thursday, February 19th. Thank [laughter] Thank you everyone.