001Yeah, [laughter] >> make sure the camera guy is ready. When you're ready, how you doing? Okay, we'll call the meeting to order. Please stand for the flag salute. >> Ready, begin. One, indivisible. Okay, roll call, please, to establish applause. President Clyde >> present. Vice President Fosamoto present. >> Member Burton >> present. >> Member Walden present. >> Member Chops Scott present. >> Inspirational reading. >> Good afternoon. >> Hello. [laughter] As the holiday season is upon us and we near the end of the year, this is a natural moment to reflect on the collective impact of our work and education. Every role across our schools and institutions contribute to creating environments where students can learn and grow. This season serves as a reminder of the values that guide our work, hope, generosity, and the shared belief in
002the potential of our students. As we begin our final meeting of 2025, may we take a moment to appreciate what has been accomplished and renew our commitment to the important work ahead, knowing that our combined efforts create lasting benefits for students and communities we serve. Thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> Representative. >> Hello. Um, I just want to say it's always an honor to come up here and I'm very passionate about everything that I talk about in every meeting. So, thank you for having me. >> Thank you. >> Um, it's been a great fall semester and we accomplished so much in a short amount of time this week without our showcase. Starting Tuesday with our junior and sophomore showcase, sophomores presented their tessellation projects in manufacturing and their model houses in construction. While
003Junior showcased the fire pit they built in welding, we had a huge turnout from the community. The silent auction bid uh we held was a big success. We sold all 24 fire pits which was amazing to see. On Wednesday, we hosted our freshman and senior showcase. Freshman part freshman's participated in a Shark Tank style display where they designed toys in groups and partic and practiced selling them. This was their first showcase and we as a CEC family were very proud of how our freshman presented. Seniors also showcased the skills, creativity and dedication that we developed in our advanced classes since this was our f since this was our final fall showcase. Seeing how far we have grown from freshman year made the moment even more special. Everyone was truly inspired by the class of 2026.
004Hard work, perseverance, and the incredible progress we've made throughout high school. Last week, we held our Skills USA kickoff meeting hosted by our Skills USA leadership team. We went over how competitions will run, expectations, and how we are here to support every student. Last year we had about 20 students competing and this year we're up to around 65 or more students enrolled in competitions which is something we're really excited about as we prepare for the upcoming season. Students are already working on resumes and required materials to get competition ready. I also attended the ACCBE student board representative networking meeting on Zoom. It was a great opportunity to build new skills and learn more about the value and impact of students voice on e on CBOS the world of the world of student board representatives and
005how to make these experiences mean meaningful. It's been a great year representing CEK and other schools within Fresno County and we are looking forward to continuing our hard work for the next year. >> Great. Thanks. Okay. >> You always do CEK uh proud. I saw John here earlier. Is he still here? >> Yeah. Yeah. A good representative. Thank you. >> Yeah. You're doing a great job. You're making us proud. Thank you for representing. >> Okay. Uh chair will entertain a motion to adopt the agenda for today's meeting. >> Second. >> It's been moved and seconded. Roll call, please. >> I. >> Yes. >> By President Masimoto. Yes. >> Member Bergen. >> Yes. >> Member Walden. >> Yes. >> Member Task Hansen. >> Yes. >> So move it. Uh uh. Now entertain a motion to uh
006adopt the minutes for last meeting of the November 20th. >> So moved. >> I'll second. >> Roll call, please. [clears throat] >> President Klein. >> Yes. >> Vice President Masimoto. >> Yes. >> Member Burton. >> Yes. >> Member Robin. >> Yes. >> Member Scott. >> Yes. >> Okay. And now we'll move on to item D which uh every uh December we do this as the annual uh organization meeting or reorganization meeting as where we uh pick a new president vice president basically and so I'd like to ask Dr. Lura to uh conduct this part of the meeting. >> Thank you Dr. Clyde and welcome everybody. Our first item of business is the election of the new president of the board. Are there any nominations for president? >> Yes. I'd like to make a nomination. I'd
007like to nominate board member Marcy Masamoto to be madame president of the board. >> I'll second. >> Any other nomination? Oh, you're running me. >> That's right. Sorry. >> Any other nominations at this time? None said. Roll call vote, please. [snorts] >> Clyde. >> Yes. Yes. >> Member Burton. >> Yes. >> Member Wick. >> Yes. >> Scott Mson. >> Yes. >> Congratulations. >> Thank you so much. Thank you for your belief in me. The last time I was president, I believe the whole year was online. >> So, this is this is going to be actually in person. So, anyhow, thank you all. looking forward to a good year. So, appreciate that. Congratulations. Um, and thank you, Dr. Lura, for stepping in for Superintendent Coper. >> Thank you. >> Um, the next item of business is
008the election of the new vice president of the board. Are there any nominations for vice president? >> I'd like to nominate uh >> Kimberly Tap Scott Mson. >> I'll second it. Uh, it's moved and seconded for Pubily Catscott Mson for vice president. Are there any other nominations? Okay, nominations will be closed. Uh, roll call vote, please. >> President Masimoto, >> yes. >> Member Quatt, >> yes. >> Member Buren, >> yes. >> Member Ro, >> yes. >> Member, >> yes. That was too hard for there. >> Congratulations, Vice President D. Scottman. >> Thank you. >> Um, served. >> Okay. So, the next item is setting the schedule of regular board meetings for 2026. Um, which is item D in your packet. Is there any discussion on this item? >> Yes. Um, so I I definitely am
009the newest one on the board [clears throat] and um, but now that I've had a whole year to be part of meetings. Um, it's it's been something that I kind of been thinking about in terms of the timing of our meeting since we have them scheduled for 1:30. Um, but I would like to propose for our board to entertain um, the idea of having these meetings in the evenings. Um, I did do my research and um, in about 58 counties, um, about only four boards meet earlier than 2:00 p.m. And so I think in terms of like making it more accessible to our community for our staff, our teachers um, and our youth, I think it would be beneficial to move our meetings in the evening. So, do we have any discussion >> comments team?
010I I don't know what the history is on um I'm going to guess the history is the availability of staff for the meeting being during the day and with our recognitions happening during the daytime. But I >> Yeah and I brought this up clear back in Pete Mu this time when I first go and uh and it was always the staff and uh it's it's I can understand that but then again sometimes you think when students come they're getting out of school and that's I don't consider that cool either. So but it's kind of a it's a tradeoff and the flip side is when I was at Clovis Unified some of those meetings went on till midnight cuz we started at 6:00. So it's like pick your place and just We I know it's inconvenient
011for those who are still working. >> So the thing is like um one of the the my [clears throat] favorite things about these meetings is when we recognize you know the employee of the month when we recognize our superintendent superstar and it's sad to hear when like family can't attend because they're at work or you know there are certain staff that can't be here because they have the week leave time. I myself when I got sworn in my dad couldn't be here to witness that moment which you know being the first former undocumented person ever elected to this board it was a historic moment and my dad couldn't be there because he had to work. Um and I know that I'm not the only one. I know there's other families that are experiencing the same
012thing. Um, and I I did my research and I I there's a reason why there's other boards that do it in the evening. I think what I don't agree with in in some instances when boards, you know, start off doing close session and then by the time they get to the important items on where public comment can be, you know, taken, it's 7:30, 8:00 p.m. and it's late for for families that have to get home to their kids. Um, we do our close session at the end, so that's not something that I anticipate will happen. Um, this isn't something that necessarily benefits me. I'm a working mom. I um, and so I think if anything, it makes my days longer because I still have to work my 9 to5. Fortunately, I work a job that
013allows me to be here and take the lead time to uh, be present. But that's not the case for everyone. And I think I don't mind having to work a 15-hour day if that means that our community has more access to come provide comments or be a part of a celebration that's so important to to their family members. Um, and yeah, I just I think it it's more beneficial and there's a reason why other boards do that and I understand that it may mean more hours in the evening for us, but I think that our duty is to our community, um, not just our staff. I think you have a point to consider because sometimes board members don't want to run for this office because it's at it blows out an an afternoon a week.
014And I don't know, maybe there's a happy ground in the middle like 4:00 instead of 1:30 or something, you know, uh kind of split the difference and then do all of our business like kind of like we're doing up front that involves staff and other people coming so they aren't as impacted. So that's I'm open to entertain that thought and we can maybe even have an alternative and put it on the agenda for next month and see where we go if you want. >> And I I mean I think too with regards to like having a youth representative here. Um, it might also encourage more youth to want to be in that position and to want to come and advocate for their, you know, classmates and and important issues for them because it's something that's
015accessible to them after school. I think we can try it out for the next year or even if we did a 6 month thing where we do those meetings, but try it out now and then if it doesn't work out in the next year, you know, we get a chance to vote on it again. Um, I know myself and my colleague, um, Brian are both, you know, working daytime jobs that, you know, require a strict schedule, but we make the time to be here as well. But I just think my focus is more on community and just the access to to them being able to come and provide comments. And we after our usually our initial events of the meeting, no one really is participating and providing comment or watching our meetings even on online
016because maybe they are working or they're not able to come make time to provide comments. So I really would like for us to make that change and at least try it out and see if if that's something that would work out for us. We do it. Our September meeting starts at 4:00 or 4:30, I think. One of those two times. And >> yeah, September is 530 p.m. >> 4:30 a.m. >> Yeah, we we offer wine a month. Um, that has been one of the concerns with us making access to our constituents to be able to participate. I know we had originally requested Zoom access for that accessibility. Um we had it a little bit during the pandemic but then uh lost it. I know we're um online now but having that Zoom access um was
017another connection breach. We were trying to facilitate more connectivity with our constituents and our students. Um Yeah, the [laughter] um the that 4431 we do in September, I I didn't find that bad. I thought that was pretty not bad at all. And uh like I said, it makes it more it might split the difference and make it more convenient and put the business that we you know where we have student of the month. And >> well, I think first we got to take into consideration the change effect to the staff that's involved with everything that occurs at our meeting. And um before we make any decisions to change our meeting time, we need to consult with our superintendent and our county staff to uh see what type of accommodations would need to be made first
018before we could even move this forward. >> You okay with that? >> I Oh, go ahead. Snagging that. >> No, no, I was I I I was thinking along similar lines. um uh trusty tax doc um that at least for the January, maybe even January, February, we might need to stick to the same schedule just because of >> plans that are already set in place [clears throat] with staff and and others. Also, with uh Dr. Kofheer's absence, I would like to have her thoughts, but I'm also wondering if Dr. has uh >> if I may. So, >> thank you, Dr. >> Amazing team and thank you for that. Um, Trusty Robas, our amazing team that serves our community and has a year planned out of events. Um, I do want us to consider that those
019events are planned through June, which which may hinder a little bit or add a little bit of an obstacle um to this change, but um I will let you have that conversation, but I just did want you to consider that that we plan for the academic year, which extends all the way through June. >> How do you think that would impact? >> So, that's kind of my question. And we we have several items where we overlap the evening activities, you know, where we have several items where there's awards um that happen that actually we we give out through the uh Fresno County Office Fed um that happen a lot of times within 30 minutes of these this meeting ending. And so we'd have to be very cautious of of when do we have overlapping activities
020like that? um and and when are different meetings like that. So I think we really have to pay attention to when are those meetings occurring um and those types of conflicts that can arise from that. I know sometimes uh Marcy you have meetings for um >> had yeah we had moved to large >> yeah because we've had movement of meetings and items like that then we've overlapped meetings um and so we we kind of have to look at the broader schedule of items across the entire year of maybe we'd have to make some different adjustments in the schedule and so maybe uh an item that we might want to look at is maybe not necessarily moving every single one of our meetings, but looking at various meetings of adjusting those meetings to to a different
021time at first to look at what what meetings can be adjusted to to a later time to see how those how that adjusts and how that accommodates the community and and how that changes participation. Um we during the pandemic we we pivoted I want to call it to online meetings very quickly. Um when that ended and some of those items went away as an option, um that went away very quickly for us and we decided that, you know, this this took away a means of access for members of our community. And our board responded with um saying, well, we still want to have our meetings accessible online for members of the community to view and for members of the community to view those meetings as an archive later on so they could come back and
022see those if they weren't able to. And so we're able to implement that. So maybe this is a similar item where we want to look um how can we accommodate some of these meetings in the future looking at the upcoming schedule of items through June. Um as Dr. Ler has pointed out of when might there be scheduling conflicts and what are some of our meetings that we can adjust to a later time. um and then maybe make future adjustments and then look at our second half of the year as we they we plan that uh next academic year and then look how can we adjust those meetings. I think that our um current board um bylaws is that our meeting is on the third Thursday of the month and and maybe that is an item
023that we would look at because maybe that third Thursday of the month is what causes the scheduling conflict of it being able to be later in the evening. And so maybe that is an adjustment even that we would want to look at of adjusting the third Thursday of the month because maybe that is causing the issue of overlapping many of the activities um or award ceremonies or um other items that we have that are later in the evening. So, I kind of don't want to make a blanket move and have unintended consequences where we staff that are here supporting um actually have other commitments outside of this um to it. So, I think it's it seems like a simple item, but there may be more moving parts to it than >> than we know, but
024definitely I think moving a a greater access for people to have uh the ability to attend these meetings. Um, and the ability to interact with us is a great item. um in over the past few years. We saw during the pandemic um we we adapted quickly to that and then we looked to do it even further when we didn't have that ability and so I see this kind of as an ability to expand and uh bring greater access for people to attend the meetings. um you know, we've all um experienced times when we're not able to attend something because of scheduling conflicts and yeah, it's very understandable where it it's it's hard to keep a schedule. [clears throat] Um and and being a a you know, like you said, a working person. Um, you know,
025you have to have a very understanding employer who's very supportive of you and a family who's also very supportive of you. As I'm going to call it, your family has to be very supportive. >> Um, and uh, it can be very difficult at times. Um, and for us, we kind of knew what we were signing up for >> and so if we have to spend the extra time, you know, Dr. Clyde was talking about meetings that were late and I don't think he was saying that that was an inconvenience to him. I think he's talking more of an inconvenience to constituents and parents sometimes having to stay until very late at night. I don't think we want to start late and then have parents here until late and have staff here till late. Um, and
026so that's I I think what that's referring to. Um, [clears throat] well, if I may, the this if we know like it's on the bylaws that every third Thursday of the month is going to reschedule the meetings, that's also, you know, part of what the superintendent should look at in terms of when they set events and we know that >> meetings can possibly go longer. So, I think that well, I'm hoping that if we looked at the schedule that not a lot of events would interfere with the timing. Um, but another point too is yeah, I mean I'm not advocating for us to do the meetings later for the benefit of myself. It's for the benefit of the community >> and um we luckily take public input towards the beginning of the meeting which is
027not always the case in other places which is what then leads families to have to stay longer um to provide input. But we don't have that issue. we provide we for the public to provide input early. So that means if they want to come make their voice heard in person about an item on [clears throat] the agenda, they can do that as well. Um and it really is only seeming like an inconvenience to those of those of us up here. Um because I also think staff I mean we'll work around what we said ultimately. Um, and I think if we did the meetings, even if we did on them 400 p.m., that allows for us to hear things um, early or even 3:30 maybe. Um, and then allow for a community to be able to
028travel here if they want to participate in our meetings. Um, but it's something that I've expressed before, so it's not anything that's new um, that I want I was hoping would happen. And um so I I just really would urge the board to to think about that and and really see that you know we're setting a present or what's you know our future of the board. Like we've done things maybe a certain way for many many years but I I think as a community member myself I've gone before boards to speak. I've had my parents go before board to speak and it's very inaccessible um when it's during the day. So um I think I I would urge for us to really think about that and at least try it out and if it doesn't
029work out then we can make that change but if we keep pushing it out and pushing it out we're never going to try and make it work. I um later in the in the meeting had intended to share some thoughts that we hold a board retreat um either late February, early March at the latest to talk about some structural things, whether they be committees, whether they be learning sessions, whether it be planning, goal setting. I mean, we haven't done that kind of thing um in a while. And I'm I'm wondering if this topic couldn't be part of that. Um it it seems to me that the at least the first couple months might be really difficult to change. um with schedules and events already set that perhaps we could um approve a certain length of
030time in the schedule that's been submitted and and it might be all the way through June because it's the you know this calendar year and I I agree with what you're saying that accessibility is is important for our community and I'm trying to figure out how we make a concertive effort with with having done the homework and the research that I think needs to be done in terms of um what's possible. Um, so I I I guess I would like to suggest that perhaps we we approve a certain number of months, maybe it's through June um as is and meanwhile we have a deeper discussion tied to board goals, tied to um roles and responsibilities and expectations that We could fully address that given given given some data. >> President if I might. >> Yes.
031>> Um the law requires that the board set the meetings for the year. >> For the year >> for the whole year. >> For the year >> at the times >> in the organizational meeting. Yes. The date >> that the time has to be set. >> The date and time. >> Not just the date. >> Correct. >> Thank you. I did not get them later on. The bylaws also allow for the board to announce those >> to change those meetings during the year. >> So we should set it, but then we can change it. >> So like on January 15th, I I know that on January 15th, the MLK awards are scheduled at 5 p.m. >> So like our January 15th meeting, I don't think that we could adjust that >> um because we're committed
032to that. Whereas February 19th, I don't think that there's anything scheduled for the February 19th meeting on our upcoming >> events. Um, if you look in our upcoming calendar. So, um, how about if we if I proposed that on our schedule we modify the February 19th meeting to 3:30 >> for that one day >> for that one for that as a to approve all as our calendar going forward and then we can review at that February 19th meeting. >> I don't think it's enough time for the staff to transition to make any changes within a month or two. >> It's two two months and then we can review. >> But we can't review. We have to set it for the whole year is what he just said. >> And and >> no, because we can
033motion to adjust other meetings. >> We can modify. Can we move this item to the end of the agenda so we can revisit this towards the action component of our meeting so we can go to superstar because I don't think we should be doing this right now. I'm looking at Mr. Bark. >> We already got we're in >> in the midst of the organizational meeting. >> Oh lord. So anyways, >> so you're we want to celebrate. So, that's what I'm proposing that we would adopt our schedule, but modifying the February 19th meeting to 3:30 p.m. And that in our later in the later in the agenda, I guess I would say that we would I'd be asking for an agenda item on the February 19th to revisit our schedule >> Later in the year for
034the >> I mean, it might be in March 19th, right? Yeah. >> Are we discussing your motion or are you Did you already >> Is that a motion? >> That's my motion. >> Okay. >> So, it's 3:30 from then on unless modified. >> No, just for the February 19th meeting because I don't know any I don't know the calendar for everything. >> Yes, we can always modify after that. to do all from February to 3:30 and if needed to modify because there's an event we would have then modified. Yes, >> you just did for February. I can only do it for >> May I please as we're making this decision decision again trusty uh trustee Robas I completely understand your perspective there's just so much in consideration um I just had Tannon from HR go
035run out and gather some data for us but we also have to consider that when we are planning for our academic year when we always honor the board meetings but we also have to work around the schedules of our community because those are the ones that are attend our events and when we do that we work on our position missions and plan financially. Meaning that we also take into account overtime, which means that if we're going to make changes, this will definitely um set a group even starting with media for lots of overtime, which we have not planned for in our budget. So, that's just something that I would like for us to consider just being that we we make this this change. And Tannon is gathering some data for me quickly, but I don't
036know we're going to move quick enough. So that's where kind of I think just moving the February 19th to a later date to give us some time to put some some more items together. >> A later time. So that's >> and leave everything else the same. >> Everything else would remain the same >> before and after. >> Yep. So January 15th would be 1:30. February 19th 3:30. March 19th forward would remain the same >> given the fact that we could change it. >> We could change it in the future. >> The the my only concern with that is that if we are publishing the schedule for people to plan also like when the meetings are. I think it it makes more sense to have it okay they're going to be at this time instead [clears
037throat] of like kind of making our community have to look and see well what what time is it this month or what time is it this month. I I and I think too, I mean, we just went and voted on our budget and we had a pretty healthy budget and we were bragging about how healthy our budget was and I I think if anything making the meetings more accessible for our community, that's that's also part of where we should invest. I I don't see a problem with us moving our meetings to 3:30 and then adjusting afterwards if we need to if there's a special event that we want to be a part of or that our you know staff is planning. Um but that's just those those are my thoughts on that. [clears throat] >>
038Um so we have a motion on the floor. I haven't heard a second. Is there a second for that motion to change the one meeting to 3:30? Second. So then I the motion dies. Is that what I don't know the terminology because we haven't done that in a while. >> That's right. There you go. >> Motion dies as is. Okay. So is there another motion or another plan that anyone would like to suggest? I I would like to make a motion that we keep our January meeting at 1:30, but then have the remainder of the meetings for 3:30 with the exception of our 4:30 um meeting in September since there's a public hearing scheduled for that. Um with the understanding that if there are events that may interfere with those meeting times that we have
039the opportunity to adjust them so long as we know them ahead of time. So that motion is keep January 15th and change from February on to 3:30 with the exception of September 17th as the 4:30 meeting. Is that what I heard you say? Is there a second to that motion? hearing. None. That motion dies. >> I'll make a motion. >> Okay. And that we leave it the way it is as presented on the agenda uh and vote it and get it passed with the understanding at any time through in the future after this is studied thoroughly, we can adjust the time uh uh later >> with some advanced notice. What's the more thorough research? leons and make an intelligent decision instead of an impromptu one. Now >> second. >> Okay. A motion made um by
040[clears throat] uh member Clyde, second by Vice President Tapscott Mson that we keep the schedule as was presented um which is 1:30 meetings throughout the year except for September 17th which starts at 4:30 knowing that we can change it at a future date. >> Did I correctly? Correct. >> Okay. Um, roll call vote, please. >> President Masimoto, >> yes. >> Vice President Papscott Mson, >> yes. >> Member Klein, >> yes. >> Member Burton, >> no. >> Member Robus, >> no. >> Uh, motion carries 3 to two. >> What I'd like to say is we need to give our staff time for a transition. This is huge especially coming from the powers that be with overtime projections and not even knowing what the numbers would look like. I think for us to be steady and firm
041as we have been um to be able to continue the course steady but with a plan of transition possibly for next year. Giving everyone time to get everyone in position, all the pieces in position. looking at the budget to make sure that it's going to be feasible because when you're changing time, schedule, and making moving pieces around, there's fiduciary responsibilities that come along with that and we have to be solvent. So, we know that our meetings are at 1:30. City council starts at in 9:00 a.m. in the morning. We know that we would like to be more accessible. We've asked for Zoom. We've tried. We know we've been set for 130 for how many years? But to make that transition, it will take time planning and to be strategic to make sure we're solvent and
042to be accommodating to our staff as well. We would never just abruptly do that to you. We love you. So, but transition is coming. It needs it does need to come. We've been asked so but it has to be done strategically. >> Well, it has to be done with our superintendent here represents 1,700 employees >> and so uh >> and and consulting >> that was the reason for who >> remember Robas would you know he had no >> and our secretary >> she wasn't going to be here because she was ill. It's not like she was advanced notice. So I think out of fairness >> uh I think the motion we have is >> we couldn't take it. So >> we vote right. [clears throat] >> Thank you. >> Okay. >> Thank you so much.
043Healthy discussion. Uh moving on along to communications employee of the month, Jenny Bride, please. >> Yes. Dr. Turn the spotlight on you. Today we we honor Dr. Dr. Heather Gomez, director of continuous improvement as the employee of the month for December 2020. Now, >> Heather is a leader at FCSS who regularly exceeds the call of duty. Whenever she is asked to start a new project, she is excited and willing. A strength of hers is seeing the vision of what something could be and helping create the steps to get that vision to fruition. From supporting districts as they work to improve outcomes for their students to the development of program monitoring monitoring of our FCSS strategic plan, Heather's desire to serve is changing lives. Though she does not directly work with Fresno County students, she knows
044what a great impact on their lives the adults have that she works with daily. Heather has served as an improvement coach for more than half of the districts in Fresno County over her seven years, not five years, seven years with FCSS. Now, in her role as director of continuous improvement, her leadership is shaping stronger systems of support across the county. Her work impacts students in the foster care system, students experiencing homelessness, newcomers, students living with a disability, and students impacted by natural disasters. Through her support, districts and schools are being creative to improve outcomes. One current example is a school district she is supporting is working to design structured play activities during recess to decrease suspension rates in their fifth and sixth grade buildings. They have seen a significant decrease in the amount of office
045referrals since testing since the testing of this program began. The FCSS strategic plan calls out values that absolutely define Heather. She prioritizes the needs of students in her decision-making, believes deeply in providing equitable opportunities for all students, giving students what they need to thrive. The bottom line is Heather embraces improvement. Heather, you are an asset to FCSS and a leader who others want to. Congratulations. >> Well, so this is what we do. Dr. Lurl will speak on behalf of Superintendent uh Kofheer and then we all take turns saying something and then you have an opportunity to share. Um right rebuttal for more. >> Um well thank you for that Dr. Masamoto. And yes, on behalf of Superintendent Kofheer, um I first of all, I we appreciate her so much and she truly wanted to be
046here, but it took many many conversations to convince her to self-care. So on behalf of her, she's very proud of you, Dr. Gomez. And this is always a very special moment where we get to acknowledge our hardworking staff in a room and we even have standing um guests here in the room which speaks to to your leadership role and the support that you bring to our Fresno County students. And so in the next few moments I'll share some words and then the board will as well and then you will then at that moment come up to the podium. Dr. Mr. Gomez, your your leadership continues to flourish and you impact many educ educational leaders, students, and our learners directly. I mean, the fact that you're out on the yards already supporting school sites just speaks
047volumes. I get the the honor of highlighting you in my current role. And then also, I don't know if anybody knows this knows this, but I work with Dr. Gomez at the district level. When I was in a district leadership position, Dr. Gomez came into our district and she really embraced every concern that we had during differentiated instruction in her former role. And one thing about Dr. Gomez is that she comes in knowing that she is about to tackle a team whether it's a team of five or 12 leaders and have those very challenging conversations where we're going to unpack our data. We're going to unpack the needs of our students that aren't being met. And these are very uncomfortable situations because when you're sitting there as a district, you could point fingers at each
048other or you could have a person that comes [clears throat] in with a very calm demeanor and that is owning every conversation. When she arrives to a district, she knows the student groups very well. She knows the needs of the community. She knows the leadership very well. She knows exactly who she needs to speak to to get things moving quicker. And she knows who she needs to tug along. And she does it so gracefully and eloquently. Dr. Gomez, really your work is exceptional and we're so fortunate to have you at Preso County Superintendent of Schools. I'm sure >> Mr. President Scott Muskin, I'm going to ask you to start, please. Oh, I'm going let Brian go first. You know, that tag team. [laughter] Yeah, I kind of read it and thought um reducing the suspension
049rate to fifth and sixth grade boys and thought of myself in the games that I played on the playground in the 1980s and thought none of them are probably allowed. They involved any type of object and throwing it at each other usually. >> Dodgeball. >> Um yep, make sure you don't get hit by this ball. Um, and so I I thought what a challenge that that would be because that's what I automatically go back to when I think of fifth and sixth grade was dodging a ball all the time. Um, or not being hit by a a raet ball that someone was throwing early in the morning. Um, cuz we had these big large boards that I think were for practicing tennis and we were throwing this raet ball up against it all the time.
050Um, and just brought back these memories of being in elementary school and throwing this raet ball all the time at this big green board. Um, and so I thought, what a what a challenge of coming up with activities for fifth and sixth grade boys to do that didn't involve throwing something at one another. Um, and while they were out at recess and so thank you very much for that. Um and and it must be a thought of what what a challenge that that is you know even for myself of trying to keep my own child occupied who is now a senior in high school and thinking is he I maybe he's just throwing stuff at well he plays football so they are just throwing things at each other um even though they're seniors in high
051school. So, thank you very much for thinking of creative ways to keep uh young men occupied and uh reduce suspension rates of them and keeping them there in school so they're in a learning conducive environment. So, thank you very much. Heather Heather just two sitting there together just I'm telling you you two dynamic duels there. Um director of continuous improvement. I was like, I didn't even know there was a department of such. And what a encapsulating title to hold. My goodness, I tell you. Continuous, continuous, always ready, always on point, ready to go. I know you hit the ground going and [clears throat] you're just such a delight working with our homeless students, our newcomers. just paving the way for everyone with grace and integrity and leadership skill sets. Look, you filled the room. They're
052all here to celebrate you and all that you do for our county and our students, the angel about us all. And we thank you for it. Continue to do great things as you are with your leadership skill set [clears throat] of integrity. and we thank you for it. Thank you. >> I was gonna go ladies first, but I've been instructed [laughter] by a lady. >> Uh uh Heather, it's it's um as far as being a a continuous improvement director. I mean, this whole office is continuous improvement. That's kind of what we do. And we do it in various factions of which are uh run one of them. And that is every organization whether it's uh governmental uh or private they need somebody obviously sees a problem but knows but comes up with a solution and
053is a closer on how to get it done and that is huge and and I want to thank you Heather and it's very measurable when you see the decreased absenteeism rates you see the test scores go up you see the referrals to the principal's office go down that's that's our profit really that's just in any business that's your profit and in the school districts that's how we measure profit basically and I just want to thank you for making us profitable. [laughter] Thank you Rob. Some sometimes I do wish they put more details in in our summary here because I feel like just it doesn't always reflect all that you do and that our employees do um and these small paragraphs that we get. But um I I know that you've only been here for 5
054years and according to what I'm reading here. Um but I think one of the things that I had spoken about um that I wanted to make sure we focus on was the training of those that work with the students, the impact that they make in their lives, right? But we need somebody equipped with those skills to be able to train those adults that then have that impact directly with the students. And you're doing just that. And I just want you to know that that work is just so important. So important because we don't have enough training for those that work daily with students of all capacities and of all backgrounds. And so thank you so much for for being that and and I I wish you all the best and you are very deserving of
055this honor. So thank you. I'll just wrap up uh quickly um by stating that I used to do similar type of work in a different organization and I know that it's really challenging to be I mean you can be seen as the bad guy coming in right you know or the sheriff you know but um it takes a lot of finesse to gain the trust of uh the leadership teams and the districts that you're working with um andor within this organization as well. And and and the and trust just doesn't happen overnight. Trust happens because you come prepared, you did your homework, you know the people, and you have the skills to help facilitate um the hard discussions and um it's really hard to change habits and a lot of it is habits, you know,
056that we have fallen into wherever we are. And so to to bring a team along to change their habits so that our kids benefit because Ryan gives his best effort in all academic pursuits. This year, his dedication has soared and his work ethic has strengthened significantly. He approaches each day with a positive spirit, a kind heart, and deep respect for adults and peers alike. As an eighth grade student, Ryan leads by example, he is a good friend, a steady mentor to younger students, and someone who is always willing to come alongside and help. A proud member of the school band, Ryan contributes creatively and with enthusiasm to campus life both inside and outside the classroom. His presence strengthens the ensemble, and his commitment mirrors the same dependability he shows in all he does. Beyond music,
057Ryan is one of the most dependable and community-minded students on campus. He is the first to lend a hand, supporting classmates, assisting maintenance staff, helping food service workers, and stepping in whenever his presence is needed. He works closely with their maintenance team to set up and clean up for school events, both during and after school, always without hesitation and always with a positive attitude. Service is deeply rooted in Ryan's character. He and his family volunteer at every Pine Ridge booster event, offering their time and enthusiasm to support the entire school community. His natural caretaker instincts extend beyond campus as well, where he plays an essential role in caring for his younger cousins and remains a supportive figure for students of all ages. Thoughtful, hardworking, and deeply committed to others, Ryan exemplifies true Rattler spirit. >>
058Congratulations be over. But no, this is when we get to you, Ryan. Um, you know, I I got to spend some quality time with Ryan in a space right before this, and those 30 minutes were not enough. We could continue and to talk about and rave about Ryan. He is a humble leader. And when I was talking to him, um, I wanted to understand how does an eighth grader become a mentor and a friend. If we all reflect on eth grade, we were trying to find ourselves. Who were we? what direction were we going? Ryan has it down. He is the cool kid on campus that embraces those younger students, guides, leads them. Um, no mistake is a wrong mistake. He pretty much walks them to the right direction. And think about that, having like
059a second admin. We have his beautiful family here. We have his amazing superintendent, Mr. Rosa, here, and he couldn't stop raving about Ryan as well. One thing that you have to know about Ryan that's not in the script and um Ryan shared with us. This is going to bring you up on your cool radar. Remember Ryan, this is recorded. Ryan has a car already. >> Yes, he has a car. He um he definitely has his goal set. And when I asked Ryan, "What do you want to do after high school?" Oh, you know what? You have a principal and a team right behind you that's going to rave about this because he said trade school, welding. So you that yes and he loves to set up events and use his hands and with his trade
060school in welding he is going to go far beyond the expectations. We are so proud of you and he had so many beautiful stories but one I would love to share and this is to highlight the amazing educational partners that we have out there. when I asked him, "What was a challenge that you faced in school?" And he said, "Writing." Writing is tough for some of us. And his amazing librarian took him in and helped him try to learn cursive to see if that would help with his penmanship a little bit more. And I said, "Brian, that speaks volumes of your librarian, but that also speaks volumes in regards to your character and your leadership because that means that you were humble enough to try something new. You were receptive, and you were ready for
061the challenge." So don't ever change that. Ryan, we are so proud of you and you are one out of 206,000 Fresno County students today that recognizes. >> We're going to do a similar thing that we just did for the uh employee of the month. So we're going to talk about you and then if you'd like to share something, you're certainly welcome to. Your superintendent might also like to say a few words. Um, but I'm going to ask uh Trusty Robas to begin. >> Sure. Sure. So, I'm I as I'm following along with the reading here and I'm I'm thinking to myself like as an eighth grade student, how many times did I have positive spirit at school? And it wasn't a lot of time. So, um yeah. So it it really does speak volumes that
062you know you can be going through whatever you may be going through at this age and still be able to keep a positive attitude and be an example for your peers. Um and you are involved in so many outside activities and um I mean I was trying not to cry today so I was like trying not to look at mom because anytime I see moms cry I'm like oh no oh no they're in the tears. Um, so I definitely looked away a few times, but I could tell the few times I looked over and how proud your mom is of you and and all your accomplishments and to be able to stand here um, and be recognized because yes, we are recording it and so I'm sure your mom's going to share it with anyone
063she can. Um, but I mean the the support that our parents give us, you know, to be able to have access to these resources and to be able to take advantage of the activities at school and outside of school, um, speaks volumes of about your mom and and her dedication to making sure that you are successful in life. Um, so I just want to, you know, thank mom for all your hard work and congratulations on an amazing boy here. Um, and continue the the work and I know you have a bright future ahead of you. I hope you look into CEK in there. >> But anyway, so congratulations and and um I know you're going to do amazing things. So thank you. Ryan, first of all, it's great to have somebody from uh Pine Ridge.
064I think you're the first one that we've had as a superstar from Pine Ridge, and you're in my district. And uh uh I I really appreciate seeing seeing a young gentleman like yourself who obviously does gets into very different avenues, not just one thing. You don't just do music. You don't you you you scale. And then at the end said, you want to get into plumbing. I mean, I'm sorry, trades. And and the reason why I brought slipped on that one is because I just this morning, you know those Tik Tok that guy that goes around talks to people what helped you become successful. You guys have all seen that. I just saw one this morning. Guy pulls in with a Rolls-Royce. He's late 30s. He says, "Is this your Rolls-Royce?" And uh yes, this
065is one of them. And and well, can I ask you what you do to get? He says, "I'm a plumber." So it does over 100 million a year. And what I'm getting at is I'm so glad you have the wisdom to look at those trades cuz that is where you can scale that and make a big impact on a lot of people's lives. And so I urge you when you go down to Sierra High is look at business classes. look or or CJ [laughter] and actually this is something that CK and I were going to have a discussion about about putting business classes and uh uh uh economic classes in there, speech classes. Those are the key elements that you need in order to scale whatever it is you choose to do. Uh uh the
066sky's is the limit for you. And this is a perfect age to get you as as an eighth grader to really get focused on on different keep doing other stuff. Keep doing other stuff. Uh, and while you're at it during the summer, since you're up in my neighborhood, I'm the one that has a horse stable at Dinky Creek. Wish on a court ride. Come up and I'll take you for a horse ride. >> Um, I was going to ask what instrument do you play? >> Your phonium. >> I I might have to see a picture of it. >> Is a business. I have to look that one up. Um, but yeah, noticing some of the items kind of that they wrote. Um, you know, that you're in band, you have a sense of humor, um,
067you know, being very serviceoriented. I thought of being up in Dr. Clyde's area, uh, where Pineidge is located, you know, a a community with a deep sense of, uh, service and community um, that runs there. um thinking of, you know, the the past that it's gone through and items that have occurred in that community and that community coming together. Um I thought of Sierra High and now we're talking about SeaTac and I'm like it's a little bit of a drive. >> Oh, okay. Thank you. >> Like a tuba. >> Like she says like a tuba. Uh [laughter] it looks large and heavy. >> Yeah. >> Smaller. >> Not heavy. >> Smaller. It's a bit small. >> Bit smaller than a tuba, but like a brass instrument. That's what I'm going to call it. It's a
068brass instrument. Um, I'm going to have to put my glasses back on to see what I wrote here. Uh, but I I thought about that and leading by example for your other students. U, I thought an interesting thing is in eighth grade I dreamt of owning a car. >> Um, so I, you know, that was kind of an item for me. And I remember the first thing that I had to learn about the first car that I owned was how to build a carburetor. And uh I I had a single parent and so that single parent wasn't really able to help me learn how to build a carburetor on my first car. And so I learned to build a carburetor by building a carburetor like four times, maybe five times, um with lots of little
069rebuild kits. And eventually I think I figured it out. Um, so that's one of the the fun things that uh kind of you get to do with maybe a car first time is learn how to do something by doing it at a couple times. Um, got really familiar with a Chilton manual, I think, or a Haze manual >> uh back in that time. So, take advantage of those uh items if you're there at Sierra High uh automotive classes and items like that. Um, I know they've got some good uh career technical education courses up there. Um, you know, and the other thing I wanted to say is I know that uh uh Pineriidge has their uh I'm going to call it their winter program tonight. And so uh uh good luck in your winter program
070this evening. >> Now it's my turn, Ryan. I had the pleasure of meeting with Ryan and the family before and he's such a delight. He's He's a little nervous, but you're doing good. See, we're almost done. Told you it was no big deal. We're just here to honor you. That's all it is. One of the words that came up in the conversation when we were in chambers with our deputy superintendent and thank you for taking over. You're doing a fantastic job. >> My pleasure. >> Is the word empathy. And thank you, Lisa, for bringing that up. Empathy. It's one of the traits that you carry and it's an honest trait that you carry that many don't carry. And if you were to go into the uh drugstore or to a Walgreens into the card section
071and if you were to look for a card in the section of empathy, you would find none because there aren't any cards that deal with empathy. My daughter had a assignment from one of her teachers at Edison High School to look for that card and when she went and looked she did not did did not find one. So that shows you that empathy is something [clears throat] really big that's lacking in our community. but through you and your presence on your campus with the support of your family and your grandmother that has been there for you and your mother and your family support system, your superintendent. Thank you for being with us today. Your village is what we call it. Your village is strong. Your support system is strong, which has allowed you to become
072the wonderful person you are, Ryan, that has empathy for others. You're a role leader, role model and leading the way on campus. You're showing your peers how to act, how to conduct [clears throat] themselves. You're showing your cousins, your family members how to act and how to conduct themselves with empathy and love and kindness. And that's a rarity. Oh, don't get uncomfortable now. I'm almost done. [laughter] But it's it's a rarity. It's a great especially for an eighth grader. It's fantastic. So, what kind of car do you have? >> Oh, well. All right then. What color is it? Oh, I love the color. Forest green. Yes. Well, I just want to say we're so very proud of you. Now, let's see. Trade, schools, welding. Did you see the fountain downstairs? You missed our beautiful fountain
073downstairs. Well, that was created by one of our students at where folks CE. Yes. Once again, chiming in. Once again, chiming in. So, before you leave, so I got it. I got it, folks. I got it. So, before you leave, make sure you go down into our entryway. It's a beautiful copper fountain that was created by one of our students, Jacob, as a matter of fact. And it's a 13. And the young lady that is sitting behind you is his sister. >> So give homage. Yes. And it's a beautiful copper. >> You weld too. >> Yes indeed. So welding is a wonderful trades to be in. There is a fountain downstairs for you to admire and it was created by one of our CEK students and it is a 13le pier to show the different
074levels of our educational structure. So, make sure you check that out before you leave. And let's see, did I get all my notes? Uh, he's fantastic. He's an eighth grader. Thank the family. Got it all. All right. Bravo team, you do great things. [laughter] And I'll just wrap it up um with two things. One is the pride that your superintendent is showing is really says it all for me because I've known him for quite a while and through the whole through all the comments he's been nodding nodding. It's a first to applaud because he knows who you are and and >> the amazing person that you are. Um, and the second thing is I know that you're in a small community and a small school and everybody knows everybody, right? You know, if you do
075something out of line, your mom probably knows before you get home, right? You know, and and that's the beauty of a small community is we take care of each other. And it sounds like you're one of the primary caretakers for people in your not only in your family, but in your community. And I think that is just something that um you'll never grow out of and people will admire you for for the rest of your lives. So, thank you for being the special person you are. Thanks to all the family and uh superintendent also for being here to celebrate. So, congrats. >> And [clears throat] it should be noted that he's young and he went right through the devastating effects of the Creek Fire and it tore that community up. When you see someone like
076this, come rise above it. That is >> class. >> Ryan and Superintendent Rosa, this is your time if you'd like to go to the podium and share a few words. Um, I just would like to thank uh everybody in my community. My parents, my aunts, my uncles, my grandparents, my teachers, Mr. Rosa, uh, just everybody that's helped me along the way. If you folks haven't noticed, Ryan's different. Ryan's a different young man. Crusty person like you. I was busy dodging and throwing balls in eighth grade. We were doing the same stuff. Not this young man. I told a story earlier. For example, before we left, there was a youngster in the office that is a friend of one of his cousins. He checked on that kid before we left to make sure he was looking
077good. Uh, this is an eighth grader that puts others first. Like, hey, that's okay. Let me help this kid out. Uh, in fact, there's one of his young cousins right there who, Miss Maggie, he helps look out for brothers. Uh, so it's really special to see. You don't see kids when they see family members, they kind of get they waves. >> Not this, not this young man. this young man actively goes out and celebrates his family, celebrates his cousins, his mom, you know, all the folks that are here with him. It's a it's a special group uh of people. And I will miss Ryan tremendously because he has been a leader on campus. In my 28 years, I don't know that I've ever seen a kid this young show such a tremendous amount of leadership
078potential >> as well as empathy >> and looks out for we'll check on, hey, like brightens those days, this is the kind of special kid this is. So, I will say to all you folks, thank you for giving us your best and letting us do what we can do with him. And he's made us better uh for a better school because of Brian. So, we're gonna ask Dr. Lero to come forward and she's got a couple things for you and if you'll come up to the front. Um, we'll get some pictures as well. >> Does he want to take his badge off? >> Feel your badge. >> With us today is Mr. Maddie. South population which is monetary so it could go to his future gold. Do you tell them how much to check was
079[laughter] >> I get the new carburetor? >> Yeah. >> Come up here and shake our hands. So, uh, we're going to take a a 10day recess where there's desserts outside to celebrate and there'll be some interviews going on as well. Congratulations. >> So we will If this is now time for community input, the public may address the board pursuant to established procedures. No action shall be taken pursuant to California government code section 54954.3. Individual speaker shall be allowed three minutes to address the Freso County Board of Education per board bylaw 9323. I do not see anyone present to speak. So, we will close our community input. Um, we also have no public hearing. Uh, there are no reports and so we'll move on to action items. Um, in representing Superintendent Kofer, Dr. Lera. Um, item
080uh number one, adoption of S FCBE resolution 202546. >> Thank you, Dr. Masamoto [clears throat] and members of the board, I ask that you consider adoption of FCDE resolution number 202546 recognizing January 19, 2026 as a Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Committees lead a countywide effort to pay to pay tribute to Dr. King. The California Education Code 37 220A2 designates January 19, 2026 as Martin Luther King Jr. day and requires that schools hold suitable exercises commemorating the civil rights movement of which Dr. King played a crucial role. Also, by the observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Day, schools are encouraged to help students gain a better understanding of justice, integrity, freedom, and love. And black Americans make up almost 5% of Fresno County's cultural diver culturally
081diverse students. And Martin Luther King Jr. Today celebration is a time to honor cultural diversity. Therefore, I kindly recommend that the board join the superintendent and myself in her place today in adopting resolution number 202546 in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Thank you. >> Motion made by Vice President Chad Scott Mutson, seconded by uh member Clyde. Uh any discussion? Roll call vote, please. >> President Masamoto, >> yes. Vice President Tapscott Mson. >> Yes. >> Member Klein. >> Yes. >> Member Burton. >> Yes. >> Member Roland. >> Yes. >> Okay. Uh, next item, adoption of FCBE resolution number 202547. >> Thank you, President Masamoto and members of the board. I ask that you consider adoption of SCBE resolution number 202547 recognizing school board recognition month in January
0822026. You are all exceptional and school board recognition month observed each January honors the service and leadership of local school board members. These individuals provide essential governance, advocacy and oversight that support student success and much more. So um I ask that you please uh consider adopting this resolution. >> So move. >> Second. Thank you for your service. >> Motion made by trustee Burton, seconded by Vice President Tapscott Mson. Roll call vote, please. President Masimoto, >> yes. >> Vice President Havscott Mson, >> yes. >> Member Glide, >> yes. >> Member B? >> Yes. Me? >> Yes. >> Excuse me. Motion carries. Okay, moving on to appointments of representatives um to boards. I did not have a print out of this. Um >> Dr. Are you prepared to speak to that? >> Uh, >> no. It says
083president. Sorry. Sorry. It just says presenter on here. >> Um, who would be present? That's why they're >> Okay, there you go. >> Dr. Mons, would you like this copy? >> Um, please. Thank you. >> Okay. Um, so Yeah, I'm good. Okay. So, we'll we say yes. Continue. >> Only. >> Are you moving? >> Nope. >> Okay. >> Yes. >> Member Burton, did you have something to >> No, no, mine is on the bees. >> He he said, >> I'll continue. So facilities uh this year was um Dr. Clyde and alternate Brian B. >> Yeah. And anything that comes up we always it's always agenda item. >> Yeah. They're all agenda. >> So we almost don't need that committee but we can leave it just in case something does too much. We don't meet independently.
084We haven't met independent >> in years. >> We haven't. >> Right. >> So we're just any any discussion any questions? So, those two will continue on in those roles. Um, board projects. Um, >> I was going to ask if she wanted to be the representative. >> Sure. Yes. >> I'd like to remain the president. >> So, there's two representatives of the board project. So, recommendation is Trusty Robas and um >> Trusty Tapscott Mudson. Yep. Hi. >> And board seminar, board president and vice president were what we did last year. >> Um to me that makes sense. >> Yeah. Yep. >> Okay. To just continue on. >> Okay. And City of Fresno School is on committee again. That was board president and vice president. I'm not sure. Did they meet this year? >> Those are designated.
085Yes, I can't hear you. It's designated for president and vice president. >> We can do that. We can just keep doing it. >> Okay. So, >> is it by that's not by policy or ed code or anything that >> it's their request from the committee? [laughter] >> It's their respect from the committee. So they will all remain the same with the exception of the second representative on the board project is is no longer Brian Burton and is now zero. >> Great. >> Right. >> Perfect. >> You guys make it easy. >> We work so well. >> Oh, we need a motion. Okay. Is there a motion? >> Second. >> Motion made by um member Clyde, second by Vice President Trusta Appcott Mson. Yep. Roll call, please. >> President. >> Yes. >> Vice President Scott Mson.
086>> Yes. >> Member Burke. >> Yes. >> Member. >> Yes. >> Thank you all. >> Okay. >> So, we have no closed session today. Um, trustee activities, travel requests. Are there any travel requests? No travel request. Okay. There. Uh item number two, consider approval of GSBA delegate assembly and a reimbursements for um uh myself and uh Vice President T Scott Mudson. >> Yes. [clears throat] >> Any discussion, questions? Is there a motion? So move >> to approve. We can approve both of them at the same time. Correct? Yeah. Okay. Motion by uh member Clyde. Is there a second? >> Second by member Burton. Uh roll call vote, please. >> President Masiman. >> Yes. >> Vice President Capscotton. >> Yes. >> Member Bergen. >> Yes. >> Member Kai. >> Yes. >> Member Roman. >> Yes. >>
087Motion carries. Thank you. Receipt of correspondence. Is there any correspondence any of you would like to discuss? I have the one that was shared. Um really it's a recognition of Brian for being our representative >> video. um had asked if they could present, but then they couldn't make it and then they thought, well, they could do try to do something online and that didn't work. And so they sent the video that was forwarded to all of you >> um from President uh Bina uh >> Beitz um thanking us for our involvement and support and >> and our student right and that her student representative attended the session. Also included in your packet is their um annual report, which is a a one-page front and back annual report of the PCCBE um from their first year
088of >> um operations. Yes. >> Are we able to get a copy of that video so we can post it? I thought that was fantastic. >> Have it. I mean, >> I couldn't download it. It has a uh encrypted password on the Zoom. Well, I don't know if they give us permission to >> Yeah, you might have to contact me now. >> You might. Yeah, I would think that. Well, that answers that question. >> It was password protected, right? >> So, it was really, you know, for us, they wanted to to uh let us know how much they appreciated. >> Yes, indeed. >> Any other communication or correspondence? >> Okay. Comments by board members. >> Kimberly, you can start today. I would start. >> Well, you know, I don't mind starting. You know, I got
089that tag team tape named Brian brings all the logistics and I hit him with the heart. So, you know how we like to do that together. So, that's that's the reason. Um, I just want to say that um we received some compliments um during the break of how we conduct ourselves during our conversation that we had earlier. And I think that's one of the things that I really appreciate about our board that we're able to have um intelligent conversations. We're able to kind of go through things and figure it out and um continue to stay on task and course in a professional manner how we conduct ourselves. And it's it's really special our board how we're able to um be role models ourselves. So, um I just want to just thank everyone for um our
090companionship and how we're able to collaborate together and still be strategic for our county. So, thank you. >> Thank you. >> Trusty Burton, do you have any comments? >> Uh no, it's just a rich season for uh I think all of our schools and students. Many activities have gone on. they presented a lot of their um uh talents to us and it's been a great opportunity to see the accomplishments of students over the first semester. Um, you know, I'll say congratulations to um, uh, a great accomplishment of one of our local high schools. Um, division 1A champions for the state um, Central um, East. I'm so used to calling them Central, but the um, Central Bengals uh, for football. Great accomplishment by that high school. A lot of dedication of students. uh member uh Tapscott
091Mson and I both have students um that attend uh from our areas that attend that high school. Uh what an accomplishment that that is for uh a public school to um make that accomplishment, you know, such an accomplishment for those students and certainly for those teachers and support of the parents um supporting that high school um and uh what they accomplished this year. Um and the opportunity that each of us have as members of the community to go out and support these students um not only in sports but in arts um who are uh plays are going on uh winter plays um orc band orchestra performances um and many other performances. Uh Lake Pineidge has their um winter program this evening. Many elementary schools are doing their winter performances. junior highs. Um there's many activities
092that are going on right now um that we can go and see and support students um and see the efforts that they put forward this year and support them in those >> n not too long but um just wanted to thank my colleagues for I cannot believe it's been a year since I've been sworn in. Um but you guys have all definitely welcomed me with open arms and have been very easy to work with and um it's making you know being in this position you know um much easier than I I thought it would be. Um I think you know being newly elected ever because I've never been elected before and this is the first time I I've been elected. Um, I definitely came in thinking, "Oh my gosh, how how am I going to
093find the strength to speak up when needed or to, you know, share my thoughts or or be able to share my background and in the decisions that I make?" Um, and you guys have all made it so easy for me to do that. So, thank you so much for that. Um, being able to witness all the amazing people that we honor at our meetings and and and seeing the amazing work that they do for our communities. Um it has [clears throat and laughter] been an honor to be able to provide some words of encouragement and and congratulatory um comments to to all those families. Um and I can see why you guys continue to do the work that you do. um because most of you guys have been elected several times um and continue to
094do the work and it's for a reason and um like kudos to all of you for continuing to to be in public service and for wanting to do the best for our community and for our families. Um, and I'm very excited to continue being on this board and to be able to provide my insight and and to continue to make decisions and and proposals that come from my heart and come from my personal experiences because I know that um I mean I didn't have to run a tough campaign for myself and I know many of you have had to do that. Um, but even in in in that I I know that when I thought about running for this position and when the position opened up, I really thought about it in the sense of
095like what can I personally bring to the table? and um can I do a better job than any of my opponents and who may come and and I know that because of my background, yes, I'm supposed to be here and I'm supposed to be um where I am and and and speaking when I do. And so I I hope that others look at me as an example that you know you can be here and you can speak up for your communities and you don't need to have all this experience in politics or all this experience running campaigns. It's not always needed. but to when you're speaking to your communities to speak from the heart and so that way they know why really you're you're running for office, why you're doing the work that you're doing
096because that's what's important to them. And so I just want to thank you guys again for allowing me to be a part of this board and for um my community for trusting me. And um I can't wait to see what lies ahead and I hope that I can impact even more um in the years to come. So, thank you so much for that. >> Well, and I'll just wrap up that I I too appreciate this board, each and every one of you. Um, and I think we did have a robust conversation um earlier and I think it was for the right reasons. Um and that I think we do have um definitely opportunity to make some changes in our processes and our our systems and that that will be benefit I think everyone and and
097as I mentioned earlier I really would love to have some type of retreat earlier in the year so that we can discuss some priorities andor issues that we've never really had an opportunity to discuss and maybe set a goal or two or three, you know, of what would we would like to accomplish. So, I'd like to you to put that in the back of your mind um to be thinking about those things. I need to talk to um Superintendent Kofheer. Um I did sit down with her a couple weeks ago. We had, you know, conversations about all sorts of stuff and and share with her some of my thoughts. You all know that I did a little research with other uh county boards to find out, you know, I haven't finished compiling it, but I
098will send that to you, my compilation of what I learned from I don't know about a dozen county boards that are our size or bigger um uh our sizeish. Anyhow, um in terms of uh committees, in terms of study sessions or learning sessions and and retreats and not that we have to do anything that the rest of them do, but just kind of as information that we can say, oh, look what look what others are doing and do we want to consider doing some of those things. So, I'm hoping that in the next month we [laughter] can we can be in touch with everybody to try to find an appropriate date and time to do [clears throat] to have a type of retreat that I don't think we've had in the time that I've been
099on this board. Um uh and we may choose to to find try to find an outside facilitator >> [clears throat] >> uh to do that unless this board thinks that that's not a good idea. I think that's fantastic. That's what equally participate. >> So serving on the Girl Scouts uh executive board, that's what we do. we will take a weekend and go out of town and they have a facilitator and we do a personality trait uh task and I'm the orchestrator and it gives you all of those traits and how to work together and and you know it's that that's a fantastic tool but I think we need to have spaces also where we can have more conversations like we did today and even putting it on the agenda so that we make sure we
100come back maybe in a month or two to revisit it because yes that is a concern and even in the lobby 3:30 is prime pickup time for school. So you know that was a time that was proposed and outside they were saying you know that means we'd have to rush back to after trying to pick our kids up for school to get there and that wouldn't work. So I think maybe a survey and you know plans to move forward to plan forward >> the details. I just want you to think about that idea. >> Plans to move forward. >> Don't imagine that's going to be a whole weekend. I imagine that it would be four hours maybe six hours, >> you know. Um, but I think maybe four hours is a little it's more realistic
101to to just roll up our sleeves and and be able to talk about things that are important to us. >> I think the serious advantage we did today with our discussion was that the the folks realize all the different facets about it and the public uh and the children knew that hey we're thinking about you too and how convenient it is for you too and it was all open air discussion whether we change our policy or not. It's almost secondary to the idea that we're recognizing issues, >> right, >> that we discuss and that's really important. >> Absolutely. So, I just want you to be aware. Hopefully, we'll be getting a little survey or something out to you as of your availability and that kind of thing. >> Um, >> uh, let's see. Uh a
102reminder that the January 20th trustees association meeting is going to be at the new Bradley Center in in Clovis uh with Lynn Ashbeck from Valley Children's Healthcare being the speaker talking about child health issues and how what the children Valley Children's Healthcare system is doing and how the Valley Health can interface with us and the school districts in the area. um to better serve kids related to health issues. So, I just want to if you haven't RSVP >> BPD yet, please let Angela know. That's also the organizational meeting for the trustees association um where they will be electing uh officers as well as changing bylaws. I really encourage you to be there and read the bylaws that were sent out, [laughter] the proposed changes. Um the uh two other things is since our last meeting,
103right after our last meeting was the educator of the year awards which was really a a very very special evening and um the people that we have to celebrate are just incredible and I just wanted to acknowledge the FCSS team that orchestrates that whole event because it's it you know it is one of the events [laughter] of the year that people look forward to and and it was excellent and you know finally just happy holidays to everybody that you know stay healthy. My goodness, if you can, you know, there's so much going on and so much going around that we need to have you here in January. So, and and beyond. So, those are just my comments. And then I just wanted to say thank you to Madame Angela, our secretary, for the best travel
104packages ever. I didn't get to say anything last month before leaving for uh where were we? Sacramento. always professional, always organized. I love having the paper back up because I had to restore refer to it at the hotel. But thank you so much for always preparing that for me. Whenever my colleagues from different counties see it, they are are envious of it. They say their secretaries never do a stellar job as you do. So, thank you for all of your service to us throughout the year. I know it's a lot, but we appreciate you and we love you. >> Thank you. Moving on to superintendent report. Dr. Ler, are you sure I could share a few words? Oh, don't give me a mic because I love to share some words and highlight. We continue to
105celebrate even though it's small growth, it's growth for our Fresno County Superintendent um of schools, staff and students. And most of all, this is the work of our amazing district district partners and district leadership. Our students are growing. um when we continue to have conversations about data internally, externally with our partners, there's only two groups that we're really focusing on where the gap is still a little bit larger right now and that's our EL population and then our foster homeless youth. We continue to support them. Our gap is smaller. There are some successes for them, but we are really um unpacking that data and making sure that we're supporting our districts as we can and they are working hard. Our district partners are phenomenal and as always so is our Fresno County Superintendent of Schools
106team. And then with that said, this morning I had the pleasure of starting off uh with Trina Frasier with all things all for youth u mental health. It was a small interview through ABC30. Thank you to our amazing Danny Brideum who writes um the bestformational uh public media comments for them and then they reach out to us and say, "Hey, we want some time with you." And it's a reminder that during the holidays, even though it's joyous for a lot of us, it's pain for some of our students. They're in broken homes, they're in separated homes, or they really rely on our school systems for safety, consistency, and also that friendship, right? The their friends are their voice because many of them are silent. So, it was a great start to the day reminding them
107that we have services for 0 to 25. They are free and it's not just mental health services. We remind them we have clothes. We have food for them. We have other supports. And it's those layers of safety that sometimes doesn't happen within the home or within the classroom. Not to judge our parents, but to support our parents. They didn't have those tools growing up. And our team is doing an amazing job um countywide supporting to where the number was about 300 or more um school sites that we have these services implemented. So during the holidays always if anybody needs help just have them go to our website all for youth and there is somebody there always answering ready to support a family a student. A student can even submit a referral on their own if
108they feel that they need that support. So it was a great way to start a conversation. I believe it's on tonight at 4:30. Yes. On ABC30. >> Got to get home then. >> Yeah. Soon. Um and with that Dr. Clyde, thank you for your leadership. It's been a pleasure and for all of you and stepping in Dr. Masamoto and Trusty Tapscott Menson and the entire board. We appreciate you all and next month is your next is your month. So we will be highlighting you then. Happy holidays and remember the best gift is yourself self-care and unplug uncharge and um take care of yourself. >> Thank you so much for serving and Dr. Cly you did an excellent job serving as president this year. I just want to tell you, you were visible. You came down
109the hill. You were at your events and it was just so nice to see you and to interact with you at all of our events this year. And and I love Patai. Thank you so much. Merry >> Christmas. Great. >> And I I'm just going to wrap up. I did forget to mention I did email all of you as well as our colleagues in the other three um counties u my report from delegate assembly. Um, and if you had a chance to look at it, you know, the focus of CSBA over the next year or two is how can we impact the system? Meaning, how can we impact the state, the rules, the regs, the legislature, the board of education, whomever is overseeing systems for our students to make them less complex and more directly
110relevant to the needs of our kids. so that make it easier for our schools and our districts to support our kids. So that's the priority. So I forgot to mention that but I just wanted to >> and I forgot to give a little something to um the conference at CSBA was fantastic. We had um wonderful representation. I was able to attend a few of the workshops. My favorite was the dos and don'ts and it was fantastic. We I had the honor once again to accept the Golden Bell award on behalf of our board for the fourth year in a row and it was fantastic along with um Dr. Sodto and [clears throat] um it was fun sitting with her and I gave her the bell and I told her to ring it. She says, "But
111I thought we're supposed to wait till the end." I said, "No, ring it right now." So she rang it and we had a great time. It was an honor to be able to accept on behalf of our county for the fourth year in a row. So it shows that the projects that we are selecting are excellent projects and I'm just proud to be a part of it. Thank you. >> Thanks. So future agenda items um I have you know future calendar change because you know that could be discussion um also retreat planning and I'm just going to ask right now would you rather do this on a weekday afternoon evening or week or Saturday? >> I mean I mean preferably weekend for you. Does it matter to you? Does it matter to you? Um >>
112a weekend might be better for me. end weekend like a Saturday maybe a Saturday morning or something like that would okay as opposed to a Friday afternoon. >> Yes indeed. >> Yeah. >> I mean that that was another idea. It's you know maybe like a a 1 to 5 or something like that on Friday afternoon but um we don't want it to displace your other responsibilities. >> I'm open. I'm open. >> Okay. [clears throat] Okay. Um uh any other future agenda items? Next meeting um will be on January 15th at 1:30 here at uh same place, same time. Um we have your special events calendar. We'll be seeing you at a number of events. I'm sure maybe even before our next meeting. So is there any other business? Is there a motion to adjurnn? >>
113Yes. >> Second. Motion by member Clyde, second by Vice President Tapscott Mson. >> Roll call, please. >> President Masimoto. >> Yes. Vice President Tapscott Menson. >> Yes. >> Member Bergen. >> Yes. >> Member Klein. >> Yes. Member. >> Yes. >> Happy New Year everybody. >> Happy New Year. Merry Christmas. >> Don't forget your beautiful um gifts like Happy.