December 13, 2021
As part of the annual re-organization of the LASD Board of Trustees, new board members were elected to the following positions:
President Steve Taglio
Vice President Jessica Speiser
Clerk Bryan Johnson
Superintendent Baier shared that both Almond and Santa Rita Elementary schools offered pop-up vaccine clinics for all community members aged 5 and up. Two dates were offered in December on a walk-in basis with two additional dates in January that are appointment only.
Assistant Superintendent Mrs. McGonagle provided some clarification regarding math curriculum changes to address parental concerns. The recent adoption of the SFUSD math curriculum will have no impact on existing math pathways (tracks). The curriculum adoption applies to Transitional Kindergarten through grade 5 while math pathways are offered starting in grade 6. Although the new California math framework does recommend delaying tracks until high school, the recommendations are not mandatory and will not be followed by LASD.
Assistant Superintendent Mr. Kenyon shared the 2021-22 1st Interim Financial Report which shows that reserves have now grown to 17.7%. This growth can be attributed to property tax growth, declining enrollment, one-time COVID relief funds and decreased expenses during the pandemic. The 3-year forecast shows that reserves are projected to remain in double digits, well above the board target of 8-10%. Mr. Kenyon also presented the 6-year forecast while exploring different scenarios that could occur.
The board was also asked to consider using the district budget to fund technology needs for staff and campuses rather than relying on PTA fundraising to cover those expenses. Board members favor emphasis on community engagement over fund raising. In addition, during the pandemic it became apparent that technology (e.g. teacher laptops, WiFi routers) is an essential part of the job. Some PTAs have been more successful than others at meeting those needs. By adding tech expenses to the district budget, the district could standardize supplies across schools and ensure that all staff and students have access to the technology that they need to be successful.
For more information, please follow this link to the Financial Report.
Lastly, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to appoint Jon Bennett to the Citizens Advisory Committee as an at-large member.
Stella Kam, Observer