banner

REGULAR MEETING OF THE GOVERNING BOARD
La Cañada USD
October 27, 2020 7:00PM
Governing Board members and Cabinet will be attending the meeting via Zoom. The Board Meeting will be livestreamed via Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/lcusdmedia

1. CALL TO ORDER at 5:00 p.m.
2. OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC TO ADDRESS THE BOARD ON CLOSED SESSION AGENDA
Quick Summary / Abstract:

Due to the current COVID-19 crisis, changes have been made to the Brown Act by the Governor (Governor’s Executive Orders N-25-20 and N-29-20 – Brown Act Requirements)

Public comments on non-agendized and agendized items can be submitted on Tuesday beginning at 4:30 pm via the following link:

https://forms.gle/4eEqTPBhex63irR97

Please note, the public comment link is not live until Tuesday at 4:30pm.  All comments will be read by a moderator during the meeting.


3. CLOSED SESSION at 5:00 p.m.
Attachments:
Closed Session Agenda
4. REPORT OUT OF CLOSED SESSION
5. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
6.a. Minutes of June 16, 2020
Attachments:
Minutes of June 16, 2020
6.b. Minutes of June 17, 2020
Attachments:
Minutes of Jun 17, 2020
6.c. Minutes of June 30, 2020
Attachments:
Minutes of June 30, 2020
6.d. Minutes of July 8, 2020
Attachments:
Minutes of July 8, 2020
6.e. Minutes of July 14, 2020
Attachments:
Minutes of July 14, 2020
6.f. Minutes of July 21, 2020
Attachments:
Minutes of July 21, 2020
7. REPORTS
7.a. Superintendent's Report
7.b. President's Report
7.c. Associate Superintendent of Business & Administrative Services' Report
7.d. Student Representative's Report
8. REVIEW OF AGENDA
9. OPPORTUNITY FOR THE PUBLIC TO ADDRESS THE BOARD ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
Quick Summary / Abstract:

Due to the current COVID-19 crisis, changes have been made to the Brown Act by the Governor (Governor’s Executive Orders N-25-20 and N-29-20 – Brown Act Requirements)

Public comments on non-agendized and agendized items can be submitted on Tuesday beginning at 4:30 pm via the following link:

https://forms.gle/4eEqTPBhex63irR97

Please note, the public comment link is not live until Tuesday at 4:30pm.  All comments will be read by a moderator during the meeting.

10. PROPOSED ACTION AND DISCUSSION ITEMS
11. FIRST READING ITEMS [Asterisk (*) denotes action may be taken on the first reading.]
11.a. *LCUSD Learning Continuity Plan 2020-2021, R53-20-21
Speaker:
Hurley
Rationale:

Background

On September 29, 2020 the LCUSD Governing Board adopted the Learning Continuity and Attendance Plan (LCP).  The Learning Continuity and Attendance Plan was submitted to the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) for review.

Current Considerations

The Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) has provided LCUSD feedback and recommended three minor adjustments related to “Improved or Increased Services”. The Learning Continuity and Attendance Plan has been updated to reflect these recommendations. The revised final plan will be re-submitted to LACOE and posted on the LCUSD website.

 

Financial Implications

 

There are no financial implications directly associated with this informational item.
 
Recommended Motion:

It is recommended that the Governing Board review the recommended adjustments made to the Learning Continuity and Attendance Plan. The revised final plan will be re-submitted to LACOE and posted on the LCUSD website.


Quick Summary / Abstract:

The Governing Board is requested to review the recommended adjustments made to the Learning Continuity and Attendance Plan.


Attachments:
R53-20-21
11.b. Recommendation to Reopen LCUSD Fields and LCHS Stadium for Joint Use, to the LCHS Stadium Licensee, and for Individual Community Use Following the Reopening Protocol for Youth Sports Leagues,R54-20-21
Speaker:
Sinnette
Rationale:
 

Background

 

LCUSD elementary school fields have been closed due to State and Public Health orders. LCHS 7-12 fields and stadium have reopened since October 12, 2020 to LCHS 9-12 Athletes to engage in skill-building and drills.  LCUSD school buildings and classrooms have reopened as workplaces following the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Guidelines and are beginning to reopen on a small scale for individual assessments for students with special needs, for in-person instruction for Preschool - 12th grade Special Day Class (SDC) students, and for in-person instruction for K-3 Resource (RSP) students.

 

Current Considerations

 

In keeping with its plan to ensure health and safety with a phased and incremental reopening approach, it is recommended to reopen the LCHS stadium to its licensee, the LCUSD fields to Joint Use users, and the LCUSD fields and stadium to individual community users on November 2, 2020.  All users will be required to follow the Reopening Protocols for Youth Sports Leagues and all established Joint Use requirements and guidelines will continue to apply.

 

Financial Implications

 

There are no financial implications involved with reopening the LCUSD fields for Joint Use, the LCHS Stadium to the Licensee, and all fields and the LCHS Stadium for individual Community Use Following the Reopening Protocol for Youth Sports Leagues.
 
Recommended Motion:
It is recommended the Governing Board review and discuss the potential of reopening the LCUSD fields and LCHS Stadium on 11/2/2020 as identified above and take action to approve the recommendations.
Quick Summary / Abstract:
The Governing Board is requested to review and discuss the potential of reopening the LCUSD fields and LCHS Stadium on 11/2/2020 as identified above and take action to approve the recommendations.
11.c. *Presentation and Approval of Superintendent’s 2020-2021 Goals, R55-20-21
Speaker:
Sinnette
Rationale:

Background


The Superintendent prepares annual goals which are reviewed, revised, and ultimately approved by the Governing Board.

 

Current Considerations

 

In the Closed Session on October 20, 2020, the Governing Board gave direction on the Superintendent’s 2020 – 2021 goals.  Since 2011 the Superintendent has elected to make the goals public.  This presentation serves to inform the public of the Superintendent’s goals for 2020 – 2021.  The goals will also be published on the District’s website.

Financial Implications

 

There are no financial implications involved with the public presentation and discussion of the Superintendent’s goals.
 
Recommended Motion:
It is recommended the Governing Board review the public presentation of the Superintendent’s goals, facilitate any subsequent public discussion, give direction for any changes or modifications, and take action to approve the goals.
Quick Summary / Abstract:
The Governing Board is requested to review the public presentation of the Superintendent’s goals, facilitate any subsequent public discussion, give direction for any changes or modifications, and take action to approve the goals.
Attachments:
R55-20-21
Superintendent's Goals 2020-2021
11.d. Presentation on Construction Delivery Methods, 51-20-21
Speaker:
Evans
Rationale:

Background

The District has completed several projects as part of the Measure LCF Bond Program.  There are several methods of procurement for construction projects available to school Districts. LCUSD has been successful in using the traditional project delivery method (Design-Bid-Build) whereas the construction work is competitively bid and the resulting contract is awarded to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder.  This traditional project delivery method places primary importance on cost. This presentation is to provide information on alternative project delivery methods available to the District. 

Current Considerations

This presentation is intended to provide information on delivery method options as we prepare to begin bidding on upcoming projects. Costs of construction, soft costs for design and construction management, and risk factors are all variables to consider when selecting a delivery method.

Financial Implications

Delivery method has financial, organizational and time constraints impact on project.  These items and corresponding impact to project budget are some key considerations that could influence the selection of the project delivery method.
 
Recommended Motion:
This is an information item. Input and direction from the Governing Board is requested.
Quick Summary / Abstract:
This is an information item. Input and direction from the Governing Board is requested.
Attachments:
R51-20-21
11.e. First Read of Resolution No. 7-20-21 Adopting Prequalification Process for Contractors Pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 20111.6
Speaker:
Evans
Rationale:

Background 

The District desires to prequalify potential contractors for Measure LCF projects with a construction estimated value exceeding $1,000,000.  Pursuant to Public Contract Code 20111.6 school districts are required to prequalify prime contractors, and mechanical, electrical or plumbing subcontractors (MEP Subcontractors) for projects that are funded with State School Facility Program funds.  Under Public Contract Code 20111.5 the District is authorized to adopt a pre-qualification system.  Public Contract Code sections 20111.5 and 20111.6 describe certain requirements that must be met, if the District chooses to adopt such a prequalification system. 

Staff has determined that some of the projects to be completed as part of the Measure LCF Bond Program would either be subject to prequalification requirement under PCC 20111.6 or at the discretion of the District under PCC 20111.5.  

Staff has developed a process and procedure to prequalify contractors.  The rating system is developed based on the Department of Industrial Relations model for prequalifying contractors. 

The attached Resolution No. 7-20-21 is a request to adopt the rating procedures to evaluate potential prime contractors and MEP subcontractors and to establish a pool of prequalified contractors to deliver and construct future projects that exceed $1,000,000 when prequalification is required per PCC 20111.6 or prequalification is implemented at the discretion of the District per PCC 20111.5.  The Resolution sets forth the Prequalification Questionnaire, and the scoring criteria to be utilized by the District.  The process of prequalification will assist the District in identifying qualified contractors for the construction of future projects for Measure LCF Bond Program.

Current Considerations

It is recommended that the Board review and discuss Resolution No. 7-20-21, and provide guidance to staff.

Financial Implications

None.


 
Recommended Motion:

This is a First Read item.  The Governing Board is requested to review, discuss and provide guidance to staff on Resolution No. 7-20-21, Adopting Prequalification Process for Contractors Pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 20111.6.  This item will come back for approval at the next regularly scheduled Governing Board Meeting.


Quick Summary / Abstract:
This is a First Read item.  The Governing Board is requested to review, discuss and provide guidance to staff on Resolution No. 7-20-21, Adopting Prequalification Process for Contractors Pursuant to Public Contract Code Section 20111.6.  This item will come back for approval at the next regularly scheduled Governing Board Meeting.
Attachments:
Resolution 7-20-21
11.f. *Agreement for Architectural & Engineering Services – Gonzalez Goodale Architects, R52-20-21
Speaker:
Evans
Rationale:

Background

The Facilities Master Plan identifies several projects at Paradise Canyon to be constructed as part of the District’s Measure LCF Bond Program.  Staff is recommending proceeding with site investigations, planning and conceptual design for the modernization of Paradise Canyon Elementary School.  This phase of design services would be funded with the series two draw of the bond funding.  Gonzalez Goodale recently completed the design of the pool & south campus improvement project at La Cañada High School. Staff reviewed the qualification of the four architect firms previously short listed by the District and interviewed two of the firms.  Gonzalez Goodale Architects is being recommended due to its performance on the pool project and overall quality of its work, staff experience and timely performance record. 

Staff has negotiated the terms of the agreement and has determined them to be fair and reasonable for the services enumerated in the agreement.

Current Considerations

The approval of this item will authorize staff to execute the agreement with Gonzalez Goodale Architects for the Paradise Canyon Elementary School Modernization Project(s).

The services provided under the agreement shall be procured in two (2) phases:  Phase 1 Services include Site Investigation, Scope Development, Programming, and Conceptual Design, as defined in Article II.  Phase 1 Services is being priced at this time and shall be awarded upon execution of the agreement.  Phase 2 Services include Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Document and Contract Administration & Construction Monitoring, as defined in Article II.  Phase 2 Services shall be awarded at the option of the District after Conceptual Design has been approved by the District.  The District shall request a separate proposal from the Architect for Phase 2 Services.  An amendment to the agreement would be issued at later date for Phase 2 services.

Financial Implications

The contract is not to exceed $173,416 for Phase 1.  Funds will come from Measure LCF.
 
Recommended Motion:

It is recommended the Governing Board approve the Agreement with Gonzalez Goodale Architects for The Paradise Canyon Elementary School Modernization Project(s).


Quick Summary / Abstract:

The Governing Board is requested to approve the Agreement with Gonzalez Goodale Architects for The Paradise Canyon Elementary School Modernization Project(s).


Attachments:
R52-20-21
11.g. Assessment and Review of Board Meeting Format, R50-20-21
Speaker:
Sinnette
Rationale:

Background

On March 12th, the Governing Board voted to close school facilities in response to concerns about COVID-19. Following the action, Governing Board meetings, with legal guidance related to new orders from the Governor on the Brown Act, were held via an online platform. The process to allow the public to submit comments was revised to accommodate for the provisions of the new orders so that the public could submit a commit electronically. The new process for board meetings also included broadcasting live to YouTube and substantially increased access to meetings for the LCUSD community. Engagement at meetings is extremely high. District staff receive reports of students and families listening to meetings and staff members engaged and following the broadcasts.  The new format has increased the connection to board discussions and actions in a positive manner.

 

At the September 8th meeting, the board and staff discussed this item. President Radabaugh asked staff to work with two board members to research this topic and make recommendations for future review and discussion.

 

Current Considerations

Since moving to virtual Governing Board meetings, there have been significant improvements to access for the community. As we look forward to a time when meetings could move back to an in-person format when it is safe to gather in large groups, it initiates reflection regarding what is working well and what needs improvement with the current format. There are several options for meeting formats to discuss. Live-streaming has led to increased access and connection through the district YouTube channel. The ease of access for submitting a public comment gives the board members a wider view of the opinions of community members.

 

In thinking about how we might choose to evolve how Board meetings are run, it should be noted that any significant technology or process changes will take planning, financial resources, and staff training. That work can start now, to enable readiness for the transition back to in person meetings. The essential problem we seek to solve is how we might build upon the increased community engagement and ensure the efficiency  and effectiveness of the board meetings.

 

For public comments, this may also be the time to evaluate options for how the public submits comments. Reaching the 7th month marker of virtual meetings is a good place to reflect and review the successes and challenges to date, especially given the transition to virtual meetings was overnight and we anticipated adjustments would be required.  Subsequent responses could include a change in process or format related to public comments, without seeking to exclude or prohibit public involvement, still upholding the provisions of the Brown Act, and maintaining the integrity and spirit of  LCUSD meetings. The following revised adjustments are recommendations the board to consider:

 

  1. Follow a time limit (now set up via a word count, but the use of timer may be better option)
  2. Refrain from reading anonymous comments live at the meeting, but provide those to the board in written form for review (given this could violate the single comment per person rule)
  3. Comments for each item will be read and at end of the comments, board and staff will respond if warranted.

 

Financial Implications

Quotes have not yet been procured for the infrastructure needed to install equipment related to livestreaming. However, there are provisions in the Measure LCF Bond Project for technology modernization at the district office which could be allocated to this small project.


 
Recommended Motion:
It is recommended that the Board review this item and engage in discussion giving direction to staff as appropriate.
Quick Summary / Abstract:
The Governing Board is requested to review this item and engage in discussion giving direction to staff as appropriate.
11.h. *Approval of Contract Addendum for the Continued Employment of the Superintendent, R56-20-21
Speaker:
Radabaugh
Rationale:

Background


The Governing Board annually evaluates the Superintendent.  As an outcome of the Superintendent’s 2019-2020 evaluation, the Governing Board’s interest is to approve an addendum to the Superintendent’s contract.  This Third Addendum shall be effective October 27, 2020.  This Third Addendum applies to Article III. Benefits of the Contract for Employment of the Superintendent and adds to the Superintendent’s existing vacation benefits  a one-time credit of five (5) vacation days upon the effective date of the Third Addendum.

 

Current Considerations

 

All other terms and conditions of the Contract, First Addendum, and Second Addendum not modified by this Third Addendum shall remain in full force and effect, up to and including July 31, 2023.


Financial Implications

 

The financial implications of the one-time credit for each of the five (5) vacation days as outlined in this Third Addendum are valued at the Superintendent’s per diem rate of $1,121.60 for the 2020-2021 contractual year.


 
Recommended Motion:
It is recommended the Governing Board approve the Contract Addendum with Wendy Sinnette for the Employment of the Superintendent.
Quick Summary / Abstract:
The Governing Board is requested to approve the Contract Addendum with Wendy Sinnette for the Employment of the Superintendent.
Attachments:
R56-20-21
12. CONSENT AGENDA
12.a. Personnel Report, P6-20-21
Speaker:
Evans
Recommended Motion:

It is recommended that the Governing Board approve the Personnel Report as presented.

Quick Summary / Abstract:
The Governing Board is requested to approve the Personnel Report as presented.
Attachments:
Personnel Report 10-27-20 revised
12.b. Quarterly Report on Williams Uniform Complaints, R45-20-21
Speaker:
Sinnette
Rationale:

Background

The Williams legislature and the Valenzuela lawsuit settlement require a school district to use its uniform complaint process to help identify and resolve any deficiencies related to: instructional materials, teacher vacancy or misassignment, facilities and CAHSEE intensive instructional and services.

Current Considerations

Los Angeles County school districts are required to report on a quarterly basis to LACOE whether or not complaints have been received. The district received no Williams Uniform Complaints.

Financial Impact

There is no financial impact for the district.

 
Recommended Motion:
It is recommended the Governing Board approve the Valenzuela/CAHSEE Lawsuit Settlement, Quarterly Report on Williams Uniform Complaints.
Quick Summary / Abstract:
It is recommended the Governing Board approve the Valenzuela/CAHSEE Lawsuit Settlement, Quarterly Report on Williams Uniform Complaints.
Attachments:
R45-20-21
12.c. Disposal of Surplus/Obsolete Materials, R57-20-21
Speaker:
Evans
Rationale:

Background

As equipment becomes unusable, obsolete or no longer needed, Board policy and California Education Code provide authority to dispose of designated items as stated in BP 3270 and Ed Code Section 17545(a) and 17546(a).

Over the years since the District Office moved from 5025 Palm Dr. to 4490 Cornishon Ave. a variety of unused items have been stored in the old District Office. These items range from old student desks, office furniture, student workbooks and textbooks.

Surplus/Obsolete items have been identified as evidenced by the attached list.  Unless otherwise noted the value of these items have been determined to be less than $2,500.

Current Considerations

Due to the anticipated modernization of Palm Crest Elementary, the old District Office is planned to be demolished. Prior to the demolition, the District will be preserving the Batchelder Fireplace Mantle. In order to accomplish this work, the building will need to be cleared of excess materials.

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for the disposal of furnishings and excess materials.


 
Recommended Motion:

The Governing Board is requested to declare the attached requested items as surplus and approve disposal of the items.

Quick Summary / Abstract:

The Governing Board is requested to declare the attached requested items as surplus and approve disposal of the items.

Attachments:
R57-20-21
12.d. Purchase Order List 5-20-21
Speaker:
Evans
Recommended Motion:
It is recommended that the Governing Board approve Purchase Order List 5-20-21 as presented.
Quick Summary / Abstract:
The Governing Board is requested to approve Purchase Order list 5-20-21.
Attachments:
Purchase Order List 5-20-21
13. COMMUNICATIONS
14. RECONVENE CLOSED SESSION (if needed)
15. ADJOURNMENT

Published: October 23, 2020, 3:50 PM

The resubmit was successful.