November 7, 2022
The President of the Los Altos Teachers Association (LATA), Chris Hazelton, presented results from the cost-of-living portion of a recent member survey. Nearly 2/3 of respondents indicated that they need to supplement their income to get by, while increasing rent and childcare costs are significant burdens for many. Members expressed a desire for the district to offer subsidized childcare to employees. In general, most teachers earn too much to qualify for “below market” units, so units that are reserved for middle income earners, such as those being built for the Palo Alto teacher housing project, are ideal to assist with housing needs.
Dr. Carrie Bosco presented results from the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) for 2021-22. When compared to results from 2018-19, it is apparent that the recent test scores are comparable to pre-pandemic levels, which can be interpreted as an absence of learning loss. The DIBELS assessment of early literacy skills also demonstrated that students in grades K-3 require less support this year than last, and much of that progress can be attributed to the work that teachers put in last year. Board member Vladimir Ivanovic asked to hear more ideas about how to support those students that are exceeding expectations.
The board unanimously voted to approve new health education curriculum provided by Health Connected which meets the requirements set forth by the California Healthy Youth Act. The curriculum received favorable reviews during the piloting period last year, and parents were given an opportunity to review the materials. Puberty Talk will be taught to 5th grade students and Teen Talk to 7th grade students. Parents will by notified before instruction begins with the option to opt-out.
A contract with Infinity Mechanical to replace failed exterior lighting controllers at 3 school sites (Almond, Egan, Springer) was also approved. The cost is not to exceed $18,500 and will be funded by the Routine Restricted Maintenance Account.
In response to increase fentanyl use by students in the area, the board approved a policy update to provide training in Naloxone administration in the event of an opioid overdose. Kathryn Azevedo, the School Linked Services coordinator, will have more information as it becomes available from the Santa Clara County Office of Education.
Stella Kam, Observer