Regular Board Meeting
Natomas USD
June 07, 2021 5:00PM
EDUCATION CENTER - BOARD ROOM
1901 Arena Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95834
Closed Session: 5:00 p.m. Open Session: 7:30 p.m.
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| NUSD Board Meetings are open to the public at a limited capacity that is in alignment with guidance from the State of California and County of Sacramento. Due to seating configurations to meet social distancing guidelines seating for the public is limited. With 5 Board members and up to 10 staff that only leaves approximately 5 seats for the public based on the capacity allowed in the room. Individuals who choose to attend the Board Meeting in person will be required to wear a mask (or similar face covering) for the duration of their time inside the Education Center. Individuals who attend in person should take their temperature and self-screen for symptoms of COVID-19 before entering the building. Anyone who has a temperature of 100.1 degrees or higher, or is exhibiting symptoms, should not attend in person. There will be a free-standing/touchless temperature machine at the entrance of the Education Center for those who forget to take their temperature before leaving home. The Board assumes no liability for any health risks to members of the public who attend the Board meeting in-person.
All individuals attending the meeting in-person do so at their own risk. Members of the public may attend the Board Meeting in person to give public comment (if capacity allows) or submit a public comment via eComment at publiccomment@natomasunified.org. If you are unable to submit a public comment via eComment please call Constituent and Customer Services prior to 12:00 p.m. on June 7, 2021 for assistance. NUSD Board Meetings are also live-streamed and recorded, and available for viewing at http://natomasunified.org/board-of-trustees/videos/. Those in attendance should expect that the recordings will capture all activity and discussions before, during, and after meetings. |
| President Heredia called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. |
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| Jag Bains, Micah Grant, Ericka Harden, Susan Heredia and Lisa Kaplan were present. |
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| President Heredia announced that the Board would be going into closed session to discuss: conference with labor negotiator-district representative regarding the Natomas Teachers Association; Government Code 54954.5 Conference with real property negotiators – property APN: 225-0170-064-0000 and APN: 225-0070-076-0000; discuss government code section 54962 – stipulated expulsion No. 2020-2021 A; and Superintendent’s Evaluation. |
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| PROCEDURE: The Board of Trustees welcomes the public's participation at Board Meetings and has devoted time in the meeting for that purpose. Members of the public may attend the Board Meeting in person to give public comment (if capacity allows) or submit a public comment via eComment at publiccomment@natomasunified.org. If you are unable to submit a public comment via eComment please call Constituent and Customer Services prior to 12:00 p.m. on June 7, 2021 for assistance. Presentations from the public are limited to two (2) minutes regarding any item that is within the Board's subject matter jurisdiction. The Board shall limit the total time for public input on each item to 20 minutes. Please note that Government Code Section 54954.2(a) limits the ability of Board Members to respond to public comments. In addition, the Board may not take action on any item which is not on this agenda except as authorized by Government Code 54954.2. |
President Heredia asked if there was anyone in attendance wishing to make a public comment regarding any of the Closed Session items? She stated there are no in-person public comments for any of Closed Session items on tonight’s agenda. She asked did we receive any public comments via eComment for any of the Closed Session items on tonight’s agenda?
Christina Huth, Executive Director stated there were no public comments received via eComment for any of the Closed Session items. |
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PROCEDURE: There are a number of exceptions to the requirement that the public business is done in public. The Legislature has articulated these exceptions because of public necessity for confidentiality or because an open disclosure would violate the privacy rights of an employee or a pupil.
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
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| Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent |
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| Carol Swanson, Associate Superintendent |
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President Heredia reconvened Open Session at 7:30 p.m.
Trustee Grant left after Closed Session. |
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Jag Bains, Ericka Harden, Susan Heredia and Lisa Kaplan were present.
Micah Grant was absent. |
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President Heredia announced that no action was taken in Closed Session.
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Passed with a motion by Lisa Kaplan and a second by Ericka Harden. |
Yes Jag Bains.
Absent Micah Grant.
Yes Ericka Harden.
Yes Dr. Susan Heredia.
Yes Lisa Kaplan.
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| President Heredia announced that our association presidents for CSEA and NTA were given the opportunity to either provide their communication in person or submit their communication via email prior to the Board Meeting. |
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| Rosa Rijo, CSEA President |
Christina Huth, Executive Director stated that no one is here for CSEA and that we did not receive anything via email.
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| Brenda Borge, NTA President |
| Mara Harvey, stated she is the incoming NTA President. She added that she has been teaching in NUSD since 2005. She noted that she came to NUSD after spending 2.5 years at a local charter. She explained that while at the charter she faced an incredibly abusive work environment which almost pushed her out of education. She added that people she worked with told her to go find a job with a union and was told it would only get better and it has. She added that she started at Leroy Greene Middle School in 2005 then went to Natomas High School (NHS) for 13 years and that she is now at Discovery High School (DHS). Harvey stated that she has taught all levels of social science and English at NHS and DHS that she has participated in site leadership and department chair, building teams, instructional leadership and mentored new teachers. She explained that in NUSD she has always been surrounded by an amazing team of dedicated teachers and some incredible administrators and mentors. She explained that five years ago she graduated with her masters in school leadership with her eyes on moving into site administration. Harvey stated that with the loss of a fantastic principal and seeing the impact of high teacher turnover on her students and colleagues that she felt she was better to serve the students and speak for teachers. She added that advocating for leadership that would adhere to leadership standards and that would treat all staff like respected professionals and not disposable commodities. She shared that she wants to see teacher leadership fostered and education and experience respected. She explained that many teachers in this district like herself have degrees and experience beyond some of our administrators and that should be seen and treated as an asset instead of marginalized. She added that she never regretted the decision of coming to work in NUSD which includes seeing the children of her former students matriculate into our schools. She opined it's amazing. She stated that she realizes how much she has become a part of the community and sees how much she owes these families and the families of Natomas for letting her into their lives and trusting her with their children. She noted that she is fully vested in building NUSD as they move into the future. She shared that she has spent a lot of hours and a lot of time in this last year working with everybody and she plans to continue to do that. She stated that she would love to represent the voices and members of NTA who amaze her everyday with the quality of education and the service that they strive to give their students regardless of the obstacles that they face. She explained that this last year has been the hardest for many and the hardest of her career. She opined she is proud of the work that the entire bargaining unit has done. She noted that there is a strong and united group of people here who want to support students. She stated that she intends to represent their needs. She shared that she believes that free, high quality public education is a civic cornerstone. She explained that in this role she is supporting students in Natomas in a way that she couldn't if she left the classroom. She noted that it is nice to meet the Trustees and that she will follow up with her contact information. |
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Trustee Bains had no report.
Trustee Harden stated she had no report. She shared that she went to Leroy Greene Academy’s promotion ceremony and it was beautiful.
Trustee Kaplan stated congratulations to all graduating seniors and to the promotion of our 8th grade students. She noted that as Ms. Harvey had said, thanks should be given to all staff, be it our credentialed, classified, district and our leadership, that this has been an incredibly difficult year and that staff has given our students their all. She shared that she had the pleasure of going and saying goodbye in person to teacher retirees. She noted that she missed doing that and seeing the teachers. She stated that Two Rivers Elementary is losing over 125 years of teaching services with five retirees. She added that they had almost seen three generations come through. She reminded everyone that this coming Friday would be NUSD’s last vaccination clinic. She explained the leadership that has come from NUSD and mentioned Mrs. Swanson, Mr. Orr and everyone behind the scenes that has made this happen week in and week out. She noted that more than 30,000 people have been vaccinated at the vaccination clinic at Natomas High School. She added that the partnerships with our Charters, with our community members, ParaTransit, the City, Dr. Oshita and many of these partnerships are going to continue. She gave thanks to everyone. She noted that many of our staff are doing this on top of their job. She added that COVID is already hard and they are going above and beyond. She shared that this past Saturday she attended the Natomas High School Independent Living Skills graduation at Mr. Schwieger's house that he holds every year. She noted that it was moving because we are back to in person graduations. She noted that she feels honored to be part of a special community that has done so much for everyone else.
President Heredia stated that she is looking forward to the Discovery High School graduation and that it is exciting to be back in person with kids and see them with their families at a distance. She opined it will be a great event. She shared that she was lucky enough to be on Zoom with the new secretary of education, and that he laid out his thoughts about education and what he is trying to do. She added that he wanted to hear from school board members and what issues they are facing in their districts. She explained that to the public it appears they are doing really well with finances and that districts have a lot of one time money. She shared her concern that because of this that there is no need for money in the future and the district is set. Heredia stated that she had asked him to work on the messaging to help the public understand that it is one time and will not be there forever. She noted that NUSD will still not be at the rate of funding that we should be in terms of 2021-22. She explained that we are still fighting for the correct level of funding that our kids deserve. She added that the one time money in some districts will make it seem like in a couple years they get all they wish for and then it will all be taken away. Heredia noted that he seemed receptive to that. She explained that she just finished a 10 day training on Board Governance and the role and responsibilities of being Trustees. She stated that some may think at this stage, why would we want to continue to go for professional development? She explained that what is important to understand is that some things change over time in order to adapt to what the climate is and what is expected of us. She noted that there are rules and responsibilities that are uniform across all districts. She stated that some things we honor here in NUSD such as notifying the Superintendent’s Office if making a site visit or reminding ourselves to work through the Board packet, responsibilities in terms of budget and our role in working with the community and with families in the district. She added that it is more comprehensive than that but it is important to be reminded of our roles and responsibilities. She explained that she had gone through that before and when they think they know something because they are so immersed in it but there is always something else. |
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| PROCEDURE: The Board of Trustees welcomes the public's participation at Board Meetings and has devoted time in the meeting for that purpose. The Board requests that you fill out a Public Comment card and turn it in to the Superintendent's Assistant. Each card has a checkbox where you may indicate that you are requesting the Board exclude your student's directory information (name, address, grade, etc.) as defined in Education Code 49061 from the meeting minutes. Your name will be called under the appropriate agenda item or Public Comment section of the agenda. Presentations from the public are limited to two (2) minutes regarding any item that is within the Board's subject matter jurisdiction. The Board shall limit the total time for public input on each item to 20 minutes. Please note that Government Code Section 54954.2(a) limits the ability of Board Members to respond to public comments. In addition, the Board may not take action on any item which is not on this agenda except as authorized by Government Code 54954.2.Members of the public may attend the Board Meeting in person to give public comment (if capacity allows) or submit a public comment via eComment at publiccomment@natomasunified.org. If you are unable to submit a public comment via eComment please call Constituent and Customer Services prior to 12:00 p.m. on June 7, 2021 for assistance. |
Christina Huth Executive Director stated we received public comments via eComment from Teacher Retirement Services, Rosalyn Bell, Greg Shirey and Marcie Holland.
Teacher Retirement Services submitted the following public comment: Each year, as an employee of Natomas Unified School District, you are eligible to sit down one-on-one with a licensed representative to answer your specific state, federal, and individual retirement questions. We believe financially planning ahead creates the best opportunity for a comfortable retirement.
Key topics we are here to assist with: Obtain an estimate of what you could expect from STRS/PERS at the time of retirement; Calculate how you can maximize your pension, and decide the best age for you to retire; Learn how you can save money through district-approved plans (403B) to cover the shortfall you will face at retirement; Review any existing 403B accounts you may have, and answer any questions regarding your retirement account. Click the link below to update your information and select the date that works best for you to meet a licensed agent through Google Meets.
Rosalyn Bell submitted the following public comment: I would like to see more transparency regarding police services at NUSD. As there is an on-going public discussion regarding policing in general, I would like the school board to consider the role of police at NUSD schools. "Rather than preventing crime, SPOs have been linked with increased arrests for noncriminal, youthful behavior, fueling the school-to-prison pipeline." "A Better Path Forward for Criminal Justice," a report by the Brookings-AEI Working Group on Criminal Justice Reform.
1. The contract provides that "The SROs assigned to the District shall provide foot, vehicle, and bike patrol and other security protection services on school campuses as agreed upon by the Parties." It also states that "The SROs and Supervising Sergeant may issue citations, make arrests, gather evidence, write reports, and participate in any other law enforcement activities they deem appropriate. The SROs and Supervising Sergeant remain authorized to take control of situations they reasonably consider to be crises." I request that the school board receive monthly/quarterly reports of police actions on school campuses, including the race of the students involved in the encounters. The parents have a right to know what is happening at schools
2. Please confirm that students will be referred to community supports rather than become wards of court as required by AB901 (2020). What is the role of school police here? The description under the contract sounds like traditional policing and not a school resource officer. I am not sure whether a police officer is the appropriate person to make community referrals.
3. Please revise the police contract to specify that police will not interrogate any youth under age 18 until they have consulted with an attorney about their rights. Senate Bill 203 (2020).
4. AB988 (2020) establishes the 988 Crisis Hotline Center for mental health crisis. I want to confirm that mental and emotional issues will be properly addressed and not handled as police matters.
5. The contract also seems inconsistent with the principles of restorative justice that NUSD has discussed implementing. NUSD should invest in implementing restorative justice, including appropriate staffing.
6. Do police wear body cameras on school grounds? They should.
6. I would also like the school board to consider whether officers on campus should wear police uniforms or school colors.
7. Although NUSD increased mental health services as a result of COVID-19, I would like to see more money for more counselors rather than law enforcement on school campuses. "Professional standards recommend at least one counselor and one social worker for every 250 students, and at least one nurse and one psychologist for every 750 students and every 700 students respectively." "Cops and No Counselors: How the Lack of School Mental Health Staff Is Harming Students," ACLU. I wonder how much the problems at schools result from a lack of staff in other needed areas.
8. I understand the need to pay for additional police services for special events and board meetings that are open to members of the public. Traditional police services are the responsibility of the Sacramento Police department. I would like the board to consider whether a MOU describing the cooperation between NUSD and the Police Department would be sufficient rather than a $1.2 million dollar contract.
Thank you for considering my comments.
Greg Shirey submitted the following public comment: To Whom it May Concern; Recently, my neighbors and I who live directly south of the vacant lot on Club Center Drive became aware that a new school is being constructed on the vacant lot. This is a surprising and completely disappointing development to all of us who have lived here for quite some time now. As you are certainly aware, Natomas schools have long had a terrible reputation for quality, such that when I purchased my house, I was advised that Natomas was a fine place to own a property but if the time came where I had children, I would want to either move away or send them to private schools when they came of age. The addition of yet another school, putting many of us in between 3 already poorly managed schools, is beyond irresponsible. Adding another school to a collection of bad schools feels somewhat like a child who had asked their parent for a dog and upon getting one and promising to take care of the dog, the dog is neglected by the child when it is received. Years later, the child requests yet another dog from the parent. Our community is the parent of this child, forced to ask the child, "why should you have another dog? You don't take care of the one you've got!" Seperate from the quality of the schooling provided in Natomas, the schools that are present are not good members of the community. Traffic management is poor and parents dropping off their kids show complete apathy for the fact that they are in the midst of a neighborhood where people live, sleep and have to drive to work from. If you are unlucky enough to have your work times coincide with school starting or ending, you find yourself log jammed in with parents who will stop in the middle of the road, use bike lanes and "no parking any time" places if it is convenient to them and who are confrontational if you point out their lack of concern for not only the neighborhood but also the law, right in front of their kids. Furthermore, this project is ostensibly in service to a population in decline, people having kids. We find ourselves in a rare point in history, a baby bust. This baby bust is coupled with a new housing crisis where people young and old struggle to find homes to live in or rent because the supply is so low. Now is no time to ignore this new landscape. Natomas has been a shining example of poor planning and jumping on whatever is wanted in the here and now with no vision toward the future and where things are going. This land waster of a project must be cancelled to, for once, make a better decision with what we have left. Californians have long defunded its public school system with prop 13 in 1978 and as a result, school districts, particularly in Natomas, have put candy jar items on the ballot quite often using the initiative system. As a resident without kids, I have always carefully weighed each prop with the idea that spending my money on the education of others in the community was a good idea where justified. If this school project completes, I will not be able to bring myself to consider voting for further funding initiatives and from what I am hearing from my neighbors, they will not either. Please make the right decision. Kill this poorly thought out project that we had no say in as a community and as the neighbors of this possible school. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Greg Shirey
Marcie Holland submitted the following public comment: Dear Natomas Unified School District Administration, We write to you today as a group of parents asking you to take action on an ongoing issue with Chemistry instruction at Inderkum High School (IHS). As partners in educating our community's children, we write to focus your attention on an obstacle to their success. There are three distinct issues that need to be addressed. First, a disproportionately high number of students in classes taught by Christopher Castro are failing this important gateway science course. When this many students are failing, the instructor must be held accountable. Second, Mr. Castro's treatment of students is inappropriately harsh and degrading. Third, these issues have been brought to NUSD administration's attention for at least the past two academic years, yet Mr. Castro remains in his role, inflicting hardship on students for another academic year. How can we let this happen? NUSD has done an outstanding job of creating a college-going culture through the CECA and International Baccalaureate programs. The CECA program is a model that targets kids from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in college as well as those with less academic confidence. With Mr. Castro as instructor, the poor grades and lack of learning have negative consequences on the programs and their participants. They zap academic confidence and competitive GPAs, which are more impactful now that SATs are not part of most college applications. Kids in the CECA program who have taken Chemistry with Mr. Castro are second guessing their decision to even apply to college. Chemistry can be difficult for many, but the CECA program promises instruction strategies that promote learning. This is NOT Mr. Castro's approach. CECA and IB Program evaluation will show this impact, yet likely not traceable to this course. It will only show the programs were not as successful as promised. We need to take action now to keep kids on track to attain their highest goals and to show the true value of these valuable programs. How can we fail the students, and these programs so many worked so hard to bring to NUSD? Mr. Castro's pattern of behavior, which is harmful to students, is well documented and comes in two forms, aggressive language and lack of learning. "Mr. Castro yells at us" is a statement many parents have heard from their children. Parents themselves have witnessed his rambling lectures and demeaning communication during remote learning. We understand that IHS administration sometimes observes Mr. Castro's teaching. His behavior is notably different during these sessions, with a more polite tone and focused instruction. How can we let this happen? It is disappointing to find that this is not a new issue. We are gathering email records between parents and NUSD officials documenting their concerns with Mr. Castro's instruction and classroom behavior as early as 2019. How can this individual still be allowed to negatively impact our kids? Because the school year is coming to an end soon, by Thursday, June 10, 2021 we would like to hear what actions NUSD plans to take to ensure Mr. Castro is no longer able to have a negative impact on students? We would also like to hear a plan for supporting students that are doubting their academic abilities because of their experiences in Mr. Castro's classes, as well as a plan for those who need to retake the course. We look forward to hearing the plans and will do our best to support NUSD in taking actions that support our students.
In partnership,
Troy Clemons, P.E.
Deanna "Bean" Tan-Clemons
Barbara Graham
Ben Holland
Krystal King
Sean King
Marcie Kirk Holland
Mary Pickett
Ryan Shaw
Victoria Shaw
Sophia Thompson
In person public comments are below:
Crystal King, member of the public, stated that she understands that Marcie Holland submitted a comment to Trustee Kaplan and that she wanted to echo her sentiments. She added that she agrees with Ms. Holland, that the CECA program is intended to target youth in the academic middle while also preparing these scholars for college. She explained that the Chemistry class at Inderkum High School is a necessary component to achieve this goal. She noted that the a-g requirements recommend three years of sciences to put students in a desirable and competitive position when applying to these institutions. She explained that with that in mind, the parents have specific asks. She noted that the asks are: 1. students should be held harmless and pass or no pass; 2. students negatively impacted should be given the opportunity to address the essential learning standards that they missed while not being penalized and having to take the entire course over; 3. they acknowledge that chemistry teaching positions can be difficult to find but that they would be remiss if they did not consider the number of students who have had negative learning experiences and outcomes as a result of the current staff's teaching strategies. She stated when counselors, administrators and other leaders are aware of the ineffective and oftentimes hostile learning environment that both the educator and leadership need to reflect on the pedagogy - "the practitioners implementing an act in the best interest of the students impacted." She noted that there is an opportunity for this body to put the needs and welfare of the students in this chemistry class first. She added that they implore the Board to do so.
Ryan Shaw, parent stated that he was not intending to speak at a Board meeting but when he heard it was an opportunity to talk about staff that he came down. He explained that he has been unfortunate to have two kids in this class. He shared that last year his daughter was in the class and struggled mildly. He added that she wrote a letter. He shared that his daughter is in the National Guard and that when she heard he was coming to the Board meeting that she decided to write a letter. The letter from Lucy Shaw was given to the Board. He stated that his son is now in his class and they have had some difficulties with him this last year as well. He added that his son turned in his binders over the internet, there were problems with the coding and the teacher couldn't open it. He shared that his son received a zero on the binders and because of that his grades went down. He noted that his son and daughter are different students and that his son is a pretty good student. He explained that his son asked for an opportunity to recode the binders and was not able to do so. He stated that he wrote a letter to the teacher and cc'd the Principal in January 2021 and asked to get some points for the binders because the zeros really affected his grade and the teacher would not do that. He shared that his son was trying really hard and that the teacher gave some extra credit which his son completed. He added that his son received a 94% on final and raised his grade from 66.9% to 69.4%. He explained that he had asked the teacher if he could consider re-weighing the test so kids could still strive to get a better grade. He noted that the tests are worth a lot.
Marcy Kirk Holland, parent stated that she submitted a letter signed by ten other parents through eComment related to the Chemistry teacher. She added that there are three issues that she wants to address. She noted that she wanted to preface this and that she is a parent and long time community member and she is really proud of the progress NUSD has made and that she has seen NUSD come from the brink of bankruptcy and how they are today. She opined that she is proud of the college and career programs in NUSD. She explained that she feels that she has a responsibility to come to the Board meeting when she sees something that is a possible obstacle to the combined success of the district and students. She stated that the issue is that there is a disproportionately large number of students failing chemistry at Inderkum High School. She noted that in particular they are students in the CECA and IB programs which are two of our gateway college programs. She shared that as a result students have a reduced academic confidence, lower GPAs which is making them less competitive at a time when grades matter more now than ever because they are no longer looking at SAT scores. She explained that the CECA program makes a promise for student centric learning and that is not happening now. She stated that she is worried about what evaluation will show when they look back on the effectiveness of the CECA program. She asked how we let this happen? She explained that the teacher's behavior is also an issue and the teacher has a demeaning communication style that does not encourage curiosity. She noted this is not a new issue and has been on the record since at least 2019 and that the teacher still has a platform to have a negative impact on their kids. She asked what they can do as parents and as community members to help the Board make the changes that they need to make so that the kids and the programs that serve them thrive? She thanked the Board for their time and consideration.
Sharon Thurmond, NUSD staff member, stated that she was there to talk about Teachers on Special Assignment (TOSAs). She asked what is the overall impact of hiring 21 TOSAs from within the district? She added that they know that they pull the most effective teachers from their optimum environment. She shared with a nationwide teacher shortage, do we really want to create more vacancies? She explained that would mean 21 teachers times 30 students times two years which is a total of 1,260 scholars who may be subject to substitutes, part time teachers or maybe inferior educators. She noted that the Principals that she has talked to say TOSAs may allow teachers an opportunity of leadership and advancement. She stated that TOSAs are seen by other teachers as an intrusion to learning flow and may assist only a few students at best. She explained that according to the April 30th announcement, the purpose is to provide targeted support and recovery to students in grades TK-6 as far as their literacy in math. She asked why only K-6? She asked if we are paying between $60,000-80,000 per teacher that is $1.7 million. She asked couldn't we use a portion of that to benefit middle school and high school students. She shared that on behalf of our parents and students that she is asking that we not put all our eggs in the K-6 basket and ask the Superintendent and his team to think out of the box and ask how we can invest those dollars in our middle school and high school who have also suffered the trauma of learning loss. She asked that NUSD especially look at how they can impact our black and brown students. She stated that it could specifically look something like this and shared that the district could hire seven elementary TOSAs at $420,000, six middle school reading and math specialists at the same amount, maybe a trainer to bring knowledge to that group of teachers and how to intervene with students that are below proficiency. She asked the Board to please not allow our middle school and high school students to be left out of the intervention process. She shared that her final request is if they could ask the team to give the public a financial summary of how the funds are being spent such as the amount K-6 is receiving, the amount being received for middle school and high school. She opined when reading through the 135 page document it is a lot of information.
Mary Pickett, parent, stated that she has a student in the Chemistry class and that she is in CECA and is doing very well in her ARC classes. She added that in Chemistry she is continually with an F. She shared that something her child has noted is that the teacher makes comments about needing homework early. She noted that the students usually have until 11:59 to turn in their work and the teacher will say they need it by 10 because they have a lot on their plate. She opined that it is not a student concern but a concern between him and the administrative office. She stated that recently, they turned in their homework, the next day the teacher brought the papers to go over it and students told them that they didn't get it back and the teacher said nevermind that they were not going to grade it. She shared that her student went to the teacher after hours and asked them to grade the assignment because they need the points, and the teacher said no. She stated that the teacher pushes the students away from wanting to seek help from them. She added that her student was already told that she will need summer school. She noted that if this is the only choice for a teacher that she will need to find another resource because she cannot have her student go through that again and possibly fail again. |
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| PROCEDURE: Generally, routine items are approved by one motion without discussion. The Superintendent or Board member may request that an item be pulled from the Consent Agenda and voted on separately. In alignment with BB 9322, the item shall be removed and given individual consideration for action as a regular agenda item. |
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Passed with a motion by Lisa Kaplan and a second by Jag Bains. |
Yes Jag Bains.
Absent Micah Grant.
Yes Ericka Harden.
Yes Dr. Susan Heredia.
Yes Lisa Kaplan.
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| Chris Evans, Superintendent |
| Chris Evans, Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to approve the April 28, 2021 Regular Board Meeting minutes. |
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| The Board is being asked to approve the personnel items. |
| Administrative Resignation: Kamaljit Pannu, Assistant Superintendent, Effective: May 31, 2021
Classified Management Promotions: Farah Ubaidullah, Coordinator III to Director, Effective: April 21, 2021; Laura Westlake, Administrative Secretary - Confidential to Coordinator III, Effective: May 24, 2021
Certificated Resignations: Megan Serpa, Teacher, Heron School, Effective: June 10, 2021; Bettina Knox, Teacher, American Lakes School, Effective: June 10, 2021; Korrina Smith, Teacher, Heron School, Effective: June 10, 2021; Heather Stocks, Teacher, Witter Ranch Elementary, Effective: June 10, 2021; Laura Swick, Teacher, Inderkum High School, Effective: June 10, 2021
Certificated Retirement: Donald DeRosa, Teacher, Natomas High School, Effective: June 10, 2021
Classified New Hires: Gabrielle Simmons, Instructional Assistant I, 3.5 hours, Natomas Park Elementary, Effective: April 28, 2021; Tushigkhuu Namkhai, Information Technology Specialist II, 8.0 hours, Office of the Chief Academic Officer, Effective: May 10, 2021; Thanuja Pathinayakage, Instructional Assistant II, 6.75 hours, Natomas High School, Effective: May 12, 2021; Sobia Malik, Instructional Assistant II, 7.0 hours, Natomas Middle School, Effective: May 17, 2021, Nhou Her, Administrative Assistant, 8.0 hours, Office of the Chief Academic Officer, Effective: May 24, 2021
Classified Promotions: Nancy Campbell-Gillies, Office Specialist II, 8.0 hours, Transportation Department to School Secretary III, 8.0 hours, Larry G. Meeks Academy; Effective: May 17, 2021; Channon Reed, Custodian, 8.0 hours, Natomas High School to Custodial Team Leader I, 8.0 hours, Natomas High School, Effective: May 17, 2021; Danielle Williamson, Administrative Secretary - Confidential to Administrative Assistant - Confidential, Effective: May 10, 2021; Veronica Alvarez, Human Resources Technician II to Administrative Secretary - Confidential, Effective: May 18, 2021
Classified 39-Month Rehire List: James Valles, Food Services Assistant II, 8.0 hours, Nutrition Services Department, Effective: May 12, 2021; Elizabeth Singleton, Library Media Technician I, 6.0 hours, Natomas Park Elementary, Effective May 13, 2021
Classified Resignations: Kirsten Cosby, Instructional Assistant III, 6.0 hours, Student Services and Support Department, Effective: April 30, 2021; Ashley Silveira, Instructional Assistant II, 7.5 hours, H. Allen Hight Elementary, Effective: May 31, 2021; Shelly Yang, Instructional Assistant II, 6.0 hours, American Lakes School, Effective: May 14, 2021; Angela Scott, School Secretary III, 8.0 hours, American Lakes School, Effective: June 11, 2021
Certificated Substitute New Hires: Shawn Kunsemiller, Effective; April 26, 2021; Ashlyn Hennige, Effective: May 5, 2021; Kelly Schaa, Effective: May 5, 2021
Certificated Substitute Resignation: Jason Cook-Harvey, Effective: June 27, 2021
Classified Substitute New Hires: Kimberly Voisin, Effective: April 30, 2021; Ethan Gallegos, Effective: May 5, 2021; Teresa Kuta, Effective: May 7, 2021 |
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| Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent |
| Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to approve the Payroll and Claims for April 2021. |
| This item appears regularly and shows the total payroll and warrants issued. The individual funds’ warrant registers and expenditure summaries are attached. |
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April 2021 Fund Report
April 2021 Warrant Registers
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| Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent |
| Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to accept donations as submitted. |
| The District strongly advocates educational partnerships. We appreciate and recognize the following individuals for being part of our team and thank them for their generosity. Mental Health & Homeless Education received a $300 donation from Adventure Christian Church of North Natomas. Joey’s Food Locker received a $1,000 donation from Rotary Club of Natomas. Jefferson School received a $2,000 donation from Timothy Sandoval for school supplies. Inderkum HS received a $1,000 donation from an anonymous donor for Health Education Supplies. |
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| Chris Evans, Superintendent |
| Chris Evans, Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to authorize the Superintendent to organize the School Names Committee for the 2021-2022 school year. |
| The request to authorize the Superintendent to organize a School Names Committee for the entire 2021-2022 school year. Per Board Policy 7310, the School Names Committee will review name suggestions (submitted from various stakeholders) and submit no ore than three recommendations per (project/facility) to the Board for discussion and approval. Once the School Names Committee for 2021-2022 is approved, recommendations for the name of various projects/facilities will be brought forward for Board approval if needed throughout the 2021-2022 school year. As a reminder, the Board shall name schools or individual buildings in recognition of: 1. Individuals, living or deceased, who have made outstanding contributions to the county or community 2. Individuals, living or deceased, who have made contributions of state, national, or worldwide significance 3. The geographic area in which the school or building is located. |
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| Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent |
| Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to approve the 2021-2022 agreements for professional legal services. |
| Legal service rates and description of services are included in the attached agreements with three (3) legal firms with continuing contracts for 2021-2022. Dannis Woliver Kelley (DWK) provides legal services in the areas of Special Education, Charter Schools and Student Discipline matters. There are no changes to the 2021-2022 hourly rates for DWK.
Fagen Friedman & Fulfrost provides legal services in the areas of Facilities, Property Acquisition and Construction matters. Fagen Friedman & Fulfrost 2021-2022 hourly rates increased by $15 (fifteen dollars) per hour. Lozano Smith provides legal services in the areas of Human Resources, Personnel Matters, Labor Relations and General Business Matters. There are no changes to the 2021-2022 hourly rates for Lozano Smith.
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2021-2022 LSA - Dannis Woliver Kelley
2021-2022 LSA - Fagen Friedman & Fulfrost
2021-2022 LSA - Lozano Smith
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| The Board is asked to approve the 2021-2022 addendums to the After School Education and Safety (ASES) contracts with the Sacramento Chinese Community Service Center (The Center). |
| The Sacramento Chinese Community Service Center (The Center) provides the After School Education and Safety (ASES) program at American Lakes School and Bannon Creek School. The ASES program serves students and families with additional educational support after the regular school day while providing a safe environment. The initial agreed-upon contract from 2020-2021 allows the District and The Center to extend their contracts for an additional year with a written addendum. The terms and rates will remain the same as outlined in the initial contract:
- The Center at American Lakes School with an enrollment of 135 students at a total cost of $179,820.
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The Center at Bannon Creek School with an enrollment of 130 students at a total cost of $169,749.
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ASES Addendum with The Center for ALS
ASES Addendum with The Center for BCS
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| The Board is asked to approve the 2021-2022 addendums to the After School Education and Safety (ASES) contracts with the Center for Fathers and Families (CFF). |
The Center for Fathers and Families provides the After School Education and Safety (ASES) program at Jefferson School and Natomas Middle School. The ASES program serves students and families with additional educational support after the regular school day while providing a safe environment. The initial agreed-upon contract from 2020-2021 allows the District and CFF to extend their contracts for an additional year with a written addendum. The terms and rates will remain the same as outlined in the initial contract:
- CFF at Jefferson School with an enrollment of 120 students at a total cost of $103,900.
- CFF at Natomas Middle School with an enrollment of 75 students at a total cost of $79,600.
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ASES Addendum with CFF for Jefferson
ASES Addendum with CFF for NMS
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| Carol Swanson, Associate Superintendent |
| Carol Swanson, Associate Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to approve the 2 year-contract for Care Solace. |
| In a continuing effort to support our commitment to promote the social-emotional well-being of our NUSD students, staff, and parents, the district has secured a 2 year-contract for services from Care Solace. Care Solace is an online resource with a live 24/7 helpline to assist individuals in finding local mental health related programs and counseling services. Individuals using the service will receive an extensive list of resources and referrals to qualified local care providers. Care Solace provides our community with access to reliable, ethical and high-quality mental healthcare services, regardless of income level. The Board is asked to approve the proposal for the 2-year contract in the amount of $50,000.00. |
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| Funding already approved by the Board of Trustees as part of the "COVID stimulus funding" budget at the April 28, 2021, Board Meeting. |
Care Solace - 2 Year
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| Carol Swanson, Associate Superintendent |
| Carol Swanson, Associate Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to approve the 3-year contract for CoVitality. |
| In a continuing effort to support our commitment to promote the social-emotional well-being of our NUSD students, staff and parents, the District has secured a 3-year contract for CoVitality. CoVitality is an evidence-based social-emotional student survey. Unlike most social-emotional surveys that are primarily focused on student deficits and externalizing behaviors, CoVitality identifies students’ personal strengths in four domains (Belief-In-Self, Belief-In-Others, Emotional Competence, Engaged Living). In addition, CoVitality measures internalizing factors, such as: Psychological Distress, Complete Mental Health, and Overall Life Satisfaction. Given the focus on internalizing factors, CoVitality helps our social-emotional support (SES) staff more efficiently identify students at-risk for mental health disorders including students at risk for suicide ideation and behavior. The Board is asked to approve the proposal for the 3-year contract in the amount of $111,226.50.
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| Funding already approved by the Board of Trustees as part of the "COVID stimulus funding" budget at the April 28, 2021, Board Meeting. |
CoVitatity - Natomas USD - 3 Year Contract
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| Carol Swanson, Associate Superintendent |
| Carol Swanson, Associate Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to approve the contract with Rita Alfred for the 2021-2022 school year. |
| The contract with Ms. Rita Alfred will be used to provide Restorative Justice and Peacemaking Circles training for social workers district-wide and new staff at Natomas Middle and Jefferson. Ms. Alfred will provide participants with practices to build community, to strengthen/repair relationships and to continue the implementation of Restorative Practices and Circle Process activities at both school sites. Ms. Alfred will also provide a year-long Restorative Justice Training of Trainers (TOT) process. The purpose of the TOT process is to give new trainers RJ theory, skills and practical experience to provide Restorative Justice in Education training and technical assistance. |
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| Funding already approved by the Board of Trustees as part of the "COVID stimulus funding" budget at the April 28, 2021, Board Meeting. |
2021-2022 Rita Alfred RJ Contract
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| The Board is asked to approve the contract with Improve Your Tomorrow. |
| Improve Your Tomorrow (IYT) provides young men of color with resources and support to succeed academically in their current educational experience and future college endeavors. The program offers opportunities for students to explore their passions, engage with their communities through volunteer efforts, participate in internships, and partake in civic activities. IYT staff serves as mentors for students to guide them with positive encouragement. The program served students at Natomas High School, Discovery High School, and Jefferson School, but in this new contract, they will expand to Natomas Middle School and Inderkum High School to serve five sites. The contract is written for a one-year term starting July 1, 2021, to June 30, 2022, at a total cost of $360,000 to serve up to 300 students across the five schools. |
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IYT Contract for 2021-2022 School Year
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| Deidra Powell, Director of Communications |
| Deidra Powell, Director of Communications |
| The Board is asked to approve the 2-year contract for LeadHERship with Girls Leadership.
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| The LeadHERship program with Girls Leadership addresses the need for resources and support that focuses on the female population of 6-8th grade students at Natomas Middle School and Bannon Creek School. LeadHERship is geared towards helping girls learn about themselves, build intentional and positive relationships with their peers, learn new concepts regarding identity, social justice, and advocacy. The contract is written for two years at $50,000 annually for a total cost of $100,000. |
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| Funding already approved by the Board of Trustees as part of the "COVID stimulus funding" budget at the April 28, 2021, Board Meeting. |
LeadHERship Contract with Girls Leadership
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| The Board is asked to approve Agreement No. 21/22-SR-316 between First 5 and NUSD for 2021-2024. |
Natomas Unified has been a funded partner of First 5 Sacramento since 2009. First 5 is an organization dedicated to partnering with the community to support prevention and early intervention systems that promote optimal health and development, narrowing disparities, and improving the lives of children ages 0 to 5 and their families.
Every 3 years First 5 Sacramento releases a Request for Application (RFA) in order to contract with agencies to provide services benefiting the health and well-being of young children ages 0-5. NUSD submitted an RFA and has been awarded $833,669 for the July 1, 2021-June 30, 2024 funding cycle.
NUSD will work in collaboration with First 5 Sacramento, community organizations/agencies and families to implement a scope of activities. Highlighted activities will include: playgroups for children 0-5, transition support to Transitional Kindergarten or Kindergarten, health comprehensive screenings, developmental assessments, and family support and education activities. |
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First 5 Agreement #2122-SR-316
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| The Board is asked to approve the 2021-2022 contract between Natomas Unified School District and United College Action Network, Incorporation. |
| United College Action Network, Incorporation (U-CAN) provides 11th and 12th-grade students at Discovery High School, Inderkum High School, Leroy Greene Academy, and Natomas High School with college and career support to prepare them to be ready for higher education and employment. The contract renewal is for a one-year term at a cost of $67,725.00. |
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U-CAN 2021-2022 Contract
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| The Board is asked to approve the appointed high school representatives to the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) for the 2021-2022 school year. |
The California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) requires that on a yearly basis the Board identifies voting school representatives to their respective leagues. Appointees will be the only school representatives to have voting privileges at the league or CIF section meetings. The Chief Academic Officer’s Office recommends the following voting representatives for the 2021-2022 school year:
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Natomas Unified School District - Suzanne Baker
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Inderkum High School - Matt Hinton
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Leroy Greene Academy - Dan Meyer
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Natomas High School - Jeremy Arsich |
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CIF District and School Representatives to Leagues
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| The Board is asked to approve a Contract with SchoolYard Rap. |
| At the April 28, 2021 Board Meeting, the Board approved the funding for a partnership with SchoolYard Rap. The action requested tonight is approval of the first associated MOU with SchoolYard Rap.
The MOU commences on July 1, 2021 and ends on June 30, 2022. At an approximate cost of $46k, the District will have access to SchoolYard Rap educational materials through a Homeschool History Subscription (HSH) and HSH in-person trainings (dates to be determined).
SchoolYard Rap’s mission is to drastically improve the educational experiences of learners of all ages by providing curriculum, content, music, and professional development that uplifts the narratives of minorities. Their mission directly connects to AR 0100 because a major part of their work is to build awareness, knowledge, and competencies for excellence and equity in schools and companies. |
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Contract with SchoolYard Rap
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| The Board is asked to approve a Memorandum of Understanding with NUSD and SCOE for the Sacramento Consortium Induction Program. |
| SCOE's Teacher Induction Program is a two-year program that assists schools and districts in providing Teacher Induction that meets both program and credentialing standards for the state of California. It provides teachers with a specifically designated standards-based professional development series, mentoring and coaching, credentialing services and technical assistance aligned to the California Standards for the Teaching Profession. |
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MOU Sacramento Consortium Teacher Induction Program
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| The Board is asked to approve a 3-year contract renewal with Go Guardian. |
| Go Guardian is a software tool that filters content on Chromebooks to keep students safe. Go Guardian is also used by teachers for classroom management and as a suicide prevention tool that sends triggers and notifications to the Student Services and Support Department, Principals, Assistant Principals, and Counselors.
The Board is asked to approve a 3-year contract renewal which will save the District approximately $23,000 over 3 years. The total cost of this contract is $164,800.
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Go Guardian Contract
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| The Board is asked to approve the contract renewal with Infinite Campus. |
| In 2014, the District signed a contract with Infinite Campus to use their software as our student information system. The agreement was written to continue on a yearly basis as needed with an annual invoice. The cost to utilize their system for the 2021-2022 school year is $169,780.92. |
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Infinite Campus Invoice Renewal
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| Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent |
| Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to approve an agreement with AECOM Technical Services, Inc for CEQA services at the Sacramento Community Clinic – B. Teri Burns Health Center. |
| On May 12, 2021, Natomas Unified approved a Joint Occupancy Agreement (JOA) with the Health and Life Organization (HALO) to design, construct and operate a health center on Fong Ranch Road across from Natomas High School. The JOA terms specify that the District Board adopt an Initial/Study Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND), which is a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) document. AECOM Technical Services, Inc. has provided a proposal to perform the CEQA investigative work and create the IS/MND for Fifty Thousand Fifty One Dollars ($50,051). |
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Agreement AECOM
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| Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent |
| Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to approve change orders to the Special Inspections Agreements with Geocon Consultants, Inc. for the K-8 Conversion projects. |
| In 2020 Special Inspections Agreements for the American Lakes, Bannon Creek and Jefferson K-8 conversion projects were entered into with Geocon Consultants, Inc.
Subsequently, shade structures at each site were added to the project scope. The shade structures require in-plant inspection and onsite materials and strength testing.
The American Lakes contract change order amount is $11,885; with approval the total contract value will be $120,655.
The Bannon Creek contract change order amount is $14,370; with approval the total contract value will be $106,960.
The Jefferson School contract change order amount is $14,370; with approval the total contract value will be $123,005.
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AL CO#1 Geocon
BC CO #1 Geocon
Jeff CO #1 Geocon
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| Doug Orr, Associate Superintendent |
| Doug Orr, Associate Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to ratify a HVAC repair contract with Tyco-Johnson Controls at American Lakes School. |
| On May 18, 2021, a contract in the amount of $13,861, was executed with Tyco-Johnson Controls for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) repair work at American Lakes School. The contract was expedited in order to secure the repair parts as soon as possible. The HVAC parts for these units are specific to the unit and are a custom order with a 4-6 week lead time.
On June 17, 2020 the Board approved a contract with Tyco-Johnson Controls for the amount of $165,538.00 for Fire Alarm & Sprinkler services, Extinguisher Basic Testing & Inspection, Alarm & Detection, and Intrusion Monitoring.
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| Routine Restricted Maintenance Account (RRMA) - Fund 8150 |
Tyco_Johnson Controls HVAC Repair at ALS
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| Carol Swanson, Associate Superintendent |
| Carol Swanson, Associate Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to approve the Stipulated Expulsion Agreement for Student No. 2020-2021 A. |
| Student No. 2020-2021 A violated the following Education Codes: 48915(a)(1)(A), 48900(a)(1), 48900(a)(2) and 48900(i). |
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| William Young, CBO/Deputy Superintendent |
| William Young, CBO/Deputy Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to receive comments from members of the public regarding the proposed actions and related expenditures included in the attached DRAFT of the Natomas Unified School District 2021-2024 Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP). |
The Board is asked to receive comments from members of the public regarding the proposed actions and related expenditures included in the attached DRAFT of the Natomas Unified School District 2021-2024 Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP). Passed with a motion by Lisa Kaplan and a second by Ericka Harden. |
Yes Jag Bains.
Absent Micah Grant.
Yes Ericka Harden.
Yes Dr. Susan Heredia.
Yes Lisa Kaplan.
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The Public Hearing was opened at 8:00 p.m.
Christina Huth, Executive Director stated that two eComments were received from Rosalyn Bell. She added that these public comments have been forwarded to the entire Board of Trustees and appropriate staff for their consideration, and the specifics of these public comments will be recorded in the official Board meeting minutes.
Rosalyn Bell submitted the following public comments: A lot of positive changes have been implemented by NUSD in response to COVID-19. We appreciate all of those efforts.
1. I am very concerned about our students ability to read. I would like to see 100% of the pre-K- 3rd grade teachers trained in (and implementing) the science of reading in 2 years and evidence of new teacher training in science of reading (SOR) upon hire. We found that teachers varied. I would also like for the school to reevaluate the Wonders curriculum. Parents need to know the answers to the exercises to help their child. The Wonders online program does not make sounds to help students learn to decode words. It would be great if there was a license for an on-line system that included sounds of letters.
2. Are high schools students automatically enrolled in A-G required colleges courses by default? I would like to see more students eligible for college. UC eliminated the use of SAT/ACT in admissions. I am not sure that NUSD should continue to take class time with these exams.
3. I appreciate the priority given to foster youth. However, I believe that it may be too narrow given the adversity many families face. Foster care today is very different than it was 10 years ago. In recent years, more focus is on keeping families together rather than putting kid in foster care. As a result, foster kids are older and come from more serious adverse situations. In addition, kids that may have been in foster care back then, are actually living with families who are struggling. I would like to see a more comprehensive approach to foster, kinship, and adoptive families to supplement the supports to foster kids. Also, adoptive parents are required to obtain a foster care license to adopt in CA. I would like to see Parent University reach out to foster, adoptive, and kinship families. Those families can support each other. I would love to see social groups for foster, adoptive and kinship teens to meet and support each other. Here is a training that I would love to see in schools and school is where a lot of inappropriate questions are asked of kids. https://adoptionsupport.org/w-s-e-giving-adopted-kids-simple-tools-answer-tough-questions/.
There is a train the trainer program or it can be obtained from:
Lilliput
Citrus Heights, CA
Contact: Karen Alvord
email: kalvord@wayfinderfamily.org
phone: 916-923-5444
Thank you for considering my comments.
I wanted to share this important resource for foster, adoptive & kinship families. We need to do better with these students.?
https://adoptionsupport.org/adoption-competency-initiatives/
Many trainings are available via free webinars.” Adoption affects 60% of households in the United States. Yet adoptive parents and their families struggle to find mental health professionals who understand the complexities of adoption.” I’d. This insight would benefit foster & kinship families too & strengthen services to all families.
A story from a CASE email:
“Hannah struggled in high school and at home. She was lying, stealing and chatting inappropriately with strangers online. Her desperate mom met with the school counselor several times for help. Nothing seemed to work.
But then, Hannah’s school counselor participated in a special C.A.S.E.TMtraining for school professionals. She said: “I was always present for the family and met with my student bi-weekly, but before this training my lens was narrow, and I don’t think it was as effective for my student.
. . .
Hannah’s story is not unique.
As the National Training Institute Director at C.A.S.E., I frequently hear from child welfare and mental health professionals about the transformative power of our training. The power to better understand why children may mistrust teachers, act out in the classroom, pick fights, engage in risky behaviors and remain hyper-vigilant to danger.“
Trustee Kaplan thanked staff and noted that she saw her request to look at female mentorship and that they included Improve Your Tomorrow.
Trustee Harden stated she had no questions. She added a great job to the staff. |
DRAFT 2021-2024 LCAP Updated 06.04.21
DRAFT 2021-2024 Local Control and Accountability Plan Public Hearing - 6.8.2021
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| Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent |
| Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to hold a Public Hearing regarding the District’s 2021-2022 Proposed Budget. |
The Board is asked to hold a Public Hearing regarding the District’s 2021-2022 Proposed Budget. Passed with a motion by Lisa Kaplan and a second by Ericka Harden. |
Yes Jag Bains.
Absent Micah Grant.
Yes Ericka Harden.
Yes Dr. Susan Heredia.
Yes Lisa Kaplan.
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| Local Educational Agencies are required to hold a public hearing and adopt a budget prior to July 1 of each year in order to authorize the expenditure of funds. Following this Public Hearing, the 2021-2022 Proposed Budget will be presented for review and action at the June 7, 2021 Board Meeting. The budget indicates the District will maintain positive certification, meeting its projected financial obligations in the current year and two subsequent fiscal years. The 2021-2022 Proposed Budget is attached. |
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The Public Hearing was opened at 8:04 p.m.
Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent presented a few slides on the 2021-2022 Proposed Budget. The objectives of the presentation were: share budget highlights and assumptions; present revenues, expenditures, and reserves; and present multi-year projection assumptions.
Trustee Kaplan asked if it changes what they have discussed or Board direction because they are waiting until the 1st interim?
Mrs. Cleveland responded no it does not. She stated that NUSD has incorporated everything the Board approved in April and in May, and if there is additional funding then staff will modify. She noted that she does not think any school district is putting this in until they are final. She explained that staff did put in the COLA but they are waiting to be sure that these programs are final. She added it does not impact NUSD but that staff just needs to hit the ground running once they know what is in the budget and they need to make the appropriate plans.
Trustee Kaplan stated that each time we see it the budget changes continuously as a living document but that it is because the State is constantly changing things.
Mrs. Cleveland responded that is correct.
Superintendent Evans stated that this year in particular that NUSD will meet the statutory deadline in time. He added that they do not get a full analysis until a week or so after the 4th and around mid-July the district will get a sense of where they fall. He noted that there could be a trailer bill in August. He explained that what the Board directed is in the budget and that NUSD has a healthy reserve. He stated that staff will move some money around and bring that back to the Board in the fall which the district has done a few times in the past.
Trustee Kaplan clarified that if we are declining in enrollment, it is not one time that the district gets funded on the prior year and that if a district continues to decline then their revenue continues to decline.
Mrs. Cleveland responded that is correct.
Superintendent Evans stated he received notification that SCOE is considering a countywide charter school that received a significant grant from CDE around CTE. He added that it will be a multi-site school and the first location will be off Arden Way but that Natomas is a potential future site. He explained when they are talking about the financial challenges of the past and keeping up on the budget and trying to look 2-3 years ahead and predict and adjust staffing and expenses appropriately. He noted that something that NUSD has been really good at for the last eight or nine years. He stated that is what helped and contributed to the financial challenges twice before in Natomas. He added that when the economy went South and Charter School growth happened and there was a decline in enrollment. He explained that they are going to continue to try and monitor this and hope the economy keeps moving in the right direction because of declining enrollment plus an economy that heads south then suddenly what feels really good with one-time money then that money goes away along with ongoing money. He noted then the cycle repeats itself.
Trustee Kaplan asked, does the COLA cover the increased cost of our pension?
Mrs. Cleveland stated it does but it takes a substantial amount of it but NUSD also has other obligations.
Trustee Kaplan asked if it does not cover our increasing costs and if the 3.41 then we have to look at finding reductions?
Mrs. Cleveland responded that is correct.
Christina Huth, Executive Director noted that there were no eComments received for this item.
Trustee Kaplan thanked Mrs. Cleveland and her staff and for the district mantra and the Board supporting and looking at our enrollment conservatively. She stated that she is seeing 5-6% in one year drop with districts that have gone from stable to extreme deficit spending. She explained that NUSD has been through this before and our approach and what Mrs. Cleveland has been able to do. She expressed her appreciation to the approach Mrs. Cleveland has taken and for being honest and cutting on top of that.
President Heredia stated that all issues are number one but the universal preschool is exploding anxiety right now. She opined that we are in a better position. She added that on every call she is on, this is the one that because of the lack of facilities, lack of teachers. She expressed that she feels fortunate to be in this district for many reasons. She explained that she is reminding the public that NUSD is fortunate to Ms. Cleveland and her staff for keeping everyone updated and informed. She added that in addition to these presentations that the Board gets communications on a weekly basis and they are very thorough and goes over much of this information and allows the Board to digest it and preview what they are going to be told. She opined it is very critical for them as Trustees to have. She thanked the staff. |
2021-2022 Proposed Budget
2021-2022 Proposed Budget Public Hearing - 6.8.2021
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| Carol Swanson, Associate Superintendent |
| Carol Swanson, Associate Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to hold a Public Hearing regarding sections A, D, and E of the NUSD SELPA Local Plan. |
The Board is asked to hold a Public Hearing regarding sections A, D, and E of the NUSD SELPA Local Plan. Passed with a motion by Lisa Kaplan and a second by Jag Bains. |
Yes Jag Bains.
Absent Micah Grant.
Yes Ericka Harden.
Yes Dr. Susan Heredia.
Yes Lisa Kaplan.
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| In accordance with the requirements of Education Code 96205, the Board shall convene a Public Hearing to receive comments from members of the public regarding sections A, D, and E of the NUSD SELPA Local Plan. The required Notice of the Public Hearing was posted in each school office, the District Office, on each school site website and on the District website.
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The Public Hearing was opened at 8:25 p.m.
There were no public comments or Trustee discussion. |
2020-2021 - Local Plan
21-22 Local Plan Section A - Contacts and Certifications Updated 6.1.2021
21-22 Local Plan Section D - Budget Plan Updated 6.1.2021
21-22 Local Plan Section E - Annual Service Plan Updated 6.1.2021
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PROCEDURE: Formal action is required on each item which frequently includes discussion prior to the motion. Time is given for public comments.
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| Chris Evans, Superintendent |
| Superintendent Recommends Approval
Chris Evans, Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to Approve Resolution No. 21-22, Authorizing the Superintendent to Negotiate and Enter Into An Agreement with SBH Natomas, LLC. |
The Board is asked to Approve Resolution No. 21-22, Authorizing the Superintendent to Negotiate and Enter Into An Agreement with SBH Natomas, LLC. Passed with a motion by Lisa Kaplan and a second by Jag Bains. |
Yes Jag Bains.
Absent Micah Grant.
Yes Ericka Harden.
Yes Dr. Susan Heredia.
Yes Lisa Kaplan.
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| Natomas Unified has identified a parcel of property within the District boundaries where we could potentially construct and operate a school site focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).
Ed Code section 17604 authorizes the District's Board, by a majority vote, to delegate/authorize the Superintendent any power or duty granted to the Board by law, provided that the Board retains ultimate responsibility over the performance of the delegated duties.
This resolution would delegate authority to the Superintendent and allow for a more efficient negotiation, while also not removing the Board's final authority. As we move forward all appropriate requirements will be followed for potential acquisition of this property. When and if we get to the point where staff can bring a purchase sale agreement forward to the Board the required public hearing will be held. Any findings and recommendations will also be brought forward to the Board for review and action at a public board meeting.
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| Trustee Kaplan stated that throughout the history in Natomas there is not a lot of land and where it is it is next to freeways. She added that if there are opportunities to look at the viability of potentially having land. She explained if some of the open areas continue to grow and housing is constructed there then it is a wise move for the Board to continue looking at those opportunities. |
Resolution No. 21-22 Authorizing the Superintendent to Negotiate and Enter into an Agreement with SBH Natomas, LLC
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| Superintendent Recommends Approval
Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| The Board is asked to ratify the Memorandum of Understanding Between the District and NTA regarding 2021 Summer School. |
The Board is asked to ratify the Memorandum of Understanding Between the District and NTA regarding 2021 Summer School. Passed with a motion by Lisa Kaplan and a second by Ericka Harden. |
Yes Jag Bains.
Absent Micah Grant.
Yes Ericka Harden.
Yes Dr. Susan Heredia.
Yes Lisa Kaplan.
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| In alignment with the May 17, 2021 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the District and Natomas Teachers Association (NTA), the District and NTA worked collaboratively on an agreement regarding 2021 Summer School which only applies to the temporary effects due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing the multiple challenges encountered by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Parties agree on the importance of providing learning opportunities to support the social-emotional, academic, and physical needs of our students and the need to continue to address learning disruption that has occurred for many students. To that end, per the attached MOU, certificated staff who work summer school will be paid $75/hour (up from the $40/hour as agreed to in our Collective Bargaining Agreement). This MOU shall not be precedent setting, shall not be the basis for establishing a past practice, and shall not be referred to in any subsequent issue that may arise. |
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MOU NTA 2021 Summer School
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| Superintendent Recommends Approval
Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| The Board is asked to ratify the Memorandum of Understanding between the District and Natomas Teachers Association (NTA) Regarding NUSD’s K-8 Larry G. Meeks Academy. |
The Board is asked to ratify the Memorandum of Understanding between the District and Natomas Teachers Association (NTA) Regarding NUSD’s K-8 Larry G. Meeks Academy. Passed with a motion by Ericka Harden and a second by Jag Bains. |
Yes Jag Bains.
Absent Micah Grant.
Yes Ericka Harden.
Yes Dr. Susan Heredia.
Yes Lisa Kaplan.
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| On May 28, 2021 the District and NTA entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) regarding the establishment of Larry G. Meeks Academy, a K-8 Alternative Learning Program. This MOU sets forth the terms that the District and NTA have agreed to regarding NUSD’s K-8 Larry G. Meeks Academy, including but not limited to, teacher work days and hours of employment and class size. In addition, the parties agreed to establish Article 22 to consolidate specific language relevant to K-8 Larry G. Meeks Academy teachers who are entitled to the Collective Bargaining Agreement as a whole.
Both parties agree to open negotiations for grades 9-12 for the Virtual Academy in summer 2021 on or before June 21, 2021.
Please review the attached MOU for further details. |
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Memorandum of Understanding for NUSD’s K-8 Larry G. Meeks Academy Between Natomas Unified School District and Natomas Teacher Association
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| Superintendent Recommends Approval
Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| The Board is asked to ratify the Memorandum of Understanding between the District and NTA regarding Senate Bill 328 - Shift to Start Times. |
The Board is asked to ratify the Memorandum of Understanding between the District and NTA regarding Senate Bill 328 - Shift to Start Times. Passed with a motion by Lisa Kaplan and a second by Ericka Harden. |
Yes Jag Bains.
Absent Micah Grant.
Yes Ericka Harden.
Yes Dr. Susan Heredia.
Yes Lisa Kaplan.
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| Senate Bill 328 (SB 328) requires the school day for middle schools and high schools to begin no earlier than 8:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m., respectively, by July 1, 2022. To comply with SB 328 by July 1, 2022 and take proactive measures in the interest of providing some level of planning for our staff and families, the District and Natomas Teachers Association (NTA) entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to implement a greater than ten (10) minute shift to the start and end times for Natomas High School, Inderkum High School, Leroy Greene Academy (6-12), and Discovery High School. Further, Parties agree to continue to collaborate as the need arises as a result of compliance of AB 328 such as the possible need to shift the start/end time of other school sites if needed due to transportation scheduling. |
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MOU Senate Bill 328 - Shift to Start Times
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| Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| Superintendent Recommends Approval
Angela Herrera, Chief Academic Officer |
| The Board is asked to ratify the Amendment to the April 7, 2021 Addendum No. 2 Memorandum of Understanding between the District and NTA. |
The Board is asked to ratify the Amendment to the April 7, 2021 Addendum No. 2 Memorandum of Understanding between the District and NTA. Passed with a motion by Ericka Harden and a second by Lisa Kaplan. |
Yes Jag Bains.
Absent Micah Grant.
Yes Ericka Harden.
Yes Dr. Susan Heredia.
Yes Lisa Kaplan.
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| On April 7, 2021 the Parties entered into an Addendum No. 2 and Settlement Agreement MOU which addressed the continued reopening issues associated with the 2020-21 school year and agreed a $1,000 stipend for all teachers, to be paid out by the June 30, 2021 pay warrant. On May 28, 2021, the Parties amend the April 7, 2021 Addendum No. 2 and Settlement Agreement MOU and agreed to a $1,000 stipend for all bargaining unit members, to be paid out by the June 30, 2021 pay warrant. This amendment only expands (to all bargaining unit members) the stipend agreed to on April 7, 2021 and is not considered a new stipend or an additional payment. |
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| Trustee Kaplan informed the public that these are all things that have already occurred and that Trustees have no questions on. |
Amendment to April 7, 2021 Addendum No. 2 and Settlement Agreement
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| Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent |
| Superintendent Recommends Approval
Javetta Cleveland, Deputy Superintendent |
| The Board is asked to approve Resolution No. 21-23 to Establish Fund 08 - Student Activity Special Revenue Fund. |
The Board is asked to approve Resolution No. 21-23 to Establish Fund 08 - Student Activity Special Revenue Fund. Passed with a motion by Lisa Kaplan and a second by Jag Bains. |
Yes Jag Bains.
Absent Micah Grant.
Yes Ericka Harden.
Yes Dr. Susan Heredia.
Yes Lisa Kaplan.
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| A new governmental accounting standard prompted the California Department of Education (COE) to establish a fund called the Student Activity Fund, known as Fund 08 in the Standardized Account Code Structure, to be used to account for the financial activities of student body associations that do not meet the definition of fiduciary under the new standard.
Approval of the attached Resolution establishing the Student Activity Fund (Fund 08) will allow Natomas USD to include ASB balances at year end (2020-21) to Fund 08 and will be incorporated into the District’s government-wide audited financial statements.
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Trustee Kaplan asked for someone to explain what this is.
Mrs. Cleveland stated that all of our schools and student bodies were included in audited statements. She added that what this does is it makes a change to incorporate the student body fund revenue expenditures in a separate fund so that it is still accounted for. She noted that they still do their own expenditures. |
Resol 21-23 Establish Fund 08 -Student Activity Special Revenue Fund
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| Deidra Powell, Director of Communications |
| Superintendent Recommends Approval
Deidra Powell, Director of Communications |
| The Board is asked to approve Resolution No. 21-24 Recognizing June 2021 as Pride month. |
The Board is asked to approve Resolution No. 21-24 Recognizing June 2021 as Pride month. Passed with a motion by Ericka Harden and a second by Lisa Kaplan. |
Yes Jag Bains.
Absent Micah Grant.
Yes Ericka Harden.
Yes Dr. Susan Heredia.
Yes Lisa Kaplan.
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| In support of the district's Core Belief: Our diversity is a strength, a resolution is being brought forth to acknowledge Pride Month in June to support diversity and inclusion and safe haven in Natomas Unified School District for all students and staff including those that identify as LGBTQ+. |
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Christina Huth, Executive Director stated that eComments were received from Dharia McGrew, Curtis Paullins, and Christina Grout. She added that these public comments have been forwarded to the entire Board of Trustees and appropriate staff for their consideration, and the specifics of these public comments will be recorded in the official Board meeting minutes.
Dharia McGrew submitted the following public comment: Good afternoon Board members -
As a South Natomas resident and NUSD parent, I am writing in support of Resolution number 21-24 recognizing June 2021 as Pride Month. Students who feel welcomed and safe at school are more likely to succeed. Teachers, staff and students who see themselves reflected and are allowed to live their authentic lives are more engaged and fulfilled. This resolution reaffirms that the leadership of the district is dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. I urge your full-throated support.
Curtis Paullins submitted the following public comment: I'm writing to express my support for Resolution No. 21-24 Recognizing June 2021 as Pride Month. It's important to send a clear signal to Natomas LGBT students that they are accepted and safe. Thank you for your consideration.
Christina Grout submitted the following public comment: Good afternoon, Board members: As a South Natomas resident and NUSD parent, I am writing in support of Resolution number 21-24 recognizing June 2021 as Pride Month. Students who feel welcomed and safe at school are more likely to succeed. Teachers, staff and students who see themselves reflected and are allowed to live their authentic lives are more engaged and fulfilled. This resolution reaffirms that the leadership of the district is dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. I urge your full-throated support.
Thank you,
Christina Grout |
Resolution No. 21-24 Recognizing June as Pride Month
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| Board of Trustees |
| Board of Trustees |
| The Board is asked to elect a clerk. |
The Board is asked to elect a clerk. Passed with a motion by Dr. Susan Heredia and a second by Ericka Harden. |
Yes Jag Bains.
Absent Micah Grant.
Yes Ericka Harden.
Yes Dr. Susan Heredia.
Yes Lisa Kaplan.
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| A vacancy in the Clerk position needs to be filled. The Board is asked to elect a new clerk. This officer position would be held by the elected Trustee until at least the next board reorganization, which is scheduled for December 14, 2021. |
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President Heredia made a motion to have Trustee Bains in the position of Clerk.
Trustee Bains agreed. |
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| President Heredia adjourned the meeting at 8:33 p.m. |
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