DECEMBER 5, 2018

REDWOOD CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Redwood City, California

APPROVED MINUTES OF BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING

December 5, 2018

1. Call to Order

President María Díaz-Slocum called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. at the District Office, Redwood City School District (“RCSD”), 750 Bradford Street, Redwood City.

Present at the Board Meeting: President María Díaz-Slocum, Vice-President Dennis McBride, Janet Lawson, Alisa MacAvoy, Hilary Paulson and Superintendent John Baker.

Others present: Supervisor Warren Slocum, Joan Dentler, Mario Rendón, Antonio Pérez, Jorge Quintana, Linda Montes, Wendy Kelly, Priscilla Aquino-Dichoso, Marlene Montezuma, Luisa Martínez, Sera González, Alma Rubio, Victor Tena, Jasmine Cruz, María Soto, Lily Silva, Lillian Silva, Ana Rodríguez, Gabriela Coches, Luis Gochez, Carmelita Jiménez, Verónica Baez, Gloria Rangel, Alexander Rodríguez, Marlene Gaona, and Emilia Pineda de Chávez, and others that did not sign in.

2. Welcome

3. Oath of Office

Supervisor Warren Slocum issued the Oath of Office for both Trustees María Díaz-Slocum and Cecilia I. Márquez and welcomed Trustees Díaz-Slocum and Márquez to the RCSD School Board.

Trustee Díaz-Slocum thanked her son Justin Slocum and his girlfriend for the support she receives from them. Trustee Díaz-Slocum also thanked Supervisor Slocum for always being supportive! Trustee Díaz-Slocum thanked the entire School Board and Superintendent Baker for their advice, help and support throughout the years.

The School Board and Superintendent Baker honored and thanked Trustee Hilary Paulson for 10 years of service as a School Board Trustee. The School Board and Superintendent Baker expressed their well wishes for her future endeavors.

Trustee Paulson was honored and presented with a Resolution from Senator Jerry Hill’s, Assemblymember Kevin Mullin’s, and Assemblymember Marc Berman’s office for her years of service as a Redwood City School District School Trustee.

Trustee Márquez was welcomed to the Redwood City School Board with excitement and flowers!

4. Board Officers’ Rotation

4.1 President

4.2 Vice President

4.3 Clerk

4.4 Secretary (Superintendent of Schools)

4.5 Trustee Representative to San Mateo County Committee on School District Organization

4.6 Legislative Network Member

The School Board held their annual board officer rotation, which follows board policy. The final rotation was as follows:

4.1 President – Dennis McBride

4.2 Vice President – Janet Lawson

4.3 Clerk – Alisa MacAvoy

4.4 Secretary (Superintendent of Schools) – John Baker

4.5 Trustee Representative to San Mateo County Committee on School District Organization – María Díaz-Slocum

4.6 Legislative Network Member – Cecilia Márquez

5. Reception

5.1 Recognition of Hilary Paulson

The School Board, Superintendent Baker and audience recessed for a brief reception to bid farewell to Trustee Paulson and thank her for her years of service to the Redwood City School District as a School Board Trustee.

6. Changes to the Agenda

Trustee MacAvoy requested to move Discussion Item 10.1 to precede School Community Report 9.1 (Monitoring of the 2018-19 Local Control Accountability Plan and Presentation of the Proposed Schedule of the Development of the 2019-2020 LCAP + Information on CA Dashboard)

Superintendent Baker requested to move Action Items 12.3, 12.4 and 12.5 to Consent.

7. Approval of Agenda

The board approved the agenda as amended, (Márquez/Díaz-Slocum; 5-0).

President McBride (Ayes)

Vice-President Lawson (Ayes)

Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)

Trustee Díaz-Slocum (Ayes)

Trustee Márquez (Ayes)

8. Oral Communication

Marlene Montezuma, student at Fair Oaks School, expressed that she loves Mary Martínez and commented that Ms. Martínez helps her when she needs help.

Luisa Martínez, parent at Fair Oaks School, commented that she had attended the School Board meeting to support Mary Martínez. Ms. Martínez commented that all students and parents trust Mary, as she has done a lot for the Fair Oaks community. Ms. Martínez asked the School Board and Superintendent Baker to reconsider giving her her job back.

Sera González, parent at Fair Oaks School, commented that she was extremely saddened by the news that Mary was no longer the Community School Coordinator at Fair Oaks. Ms. González commented that Mary helped her tremendously with her teenage daughters. Furthermore, Ms. González stated that Mary had been a great asset to the Fair Oaks community and urged the School Board and Superintendent Baker to reconsider giving Mary her job back.

Alma Rubio, parent at Fair Oaks School, expressed that she would like to have Mary back at Fair Oaks. Ms. Rubio commented that Mary had been a great support to her when she was going through an emotional crisis. Ms. Rubio further added that Mary has done a lot of positive things for the Fair Oaks School community and encouraged the School Board and Superintendent Baker to give Mary her job back.

Victor Tena, addressed the School Board and Superintendent Baker by advocating for Mary Martínez. Mr. Tena commented that Mary had been a tremendous help and support to the Fair Oaks community and requested that Mary return to Fair Oaks School.

Jasmine Cruz, student at Fair Oaks School, expressed that she wants Mary to return to Fair Oaks School.

Ilsy Cruz Rivera, student at Fair Oaks School, Ilsy’s mother spoke on her behalf and commented that Ilsy would like for Mary to return to Fair Oaks School.

Maria Soto, parent at Fair Oaks School, commented that this school year has not been a positive year for Fair Oaks School. Ms. Soto expressed that the Fair Oaks community has been fighting hard to keep the school open. Ms. Soto further expressed that she feels saddened by the news that Mary Martínez would no longer be the Community School Coordinator for Fair Oaks. Ms. Soto urged the School Board and Superintendent Baker to bring Mary back to Fair Oaks School.

Carmela (No last name provided) parent at Fair Oaks School, commented that during the time her son was going through a difficult health condition, Mary had been extremely supportive of not only her son, but the entire family. Carmela commented that Mary had been a great liaison between the family and the school nurse. Carmela expressed her desire for Mary to return as the Community Schools Coordinator at Fair Oaks School.

Lily Silva, parent at Fair Oaks School, commented that Fair Oaks School has gone through a difficult period during the last few months. Ms. Silva expressed that Mary was always willing to help families and offered students a safe place. Ms. Silva requested that Mary return to Fair Oaks School.

Lillian Silva, student at Fair Oaks School, expressed that Mary Martínez was her friend and Mary helped her when she needed advice. Lillian commented she had been bullied and Mary helped her feel safe.

Violeta Silva, former student at Fair Oaks School, commented that Mary always offered to help her when she needed support. Violeta expressed that she wished Mary could return to Fair Oaks School.

Ana Rodríguez, parent at Fair Oaks School, commented that Mary Martínez was a strong pillar at Fair Oaks and had an incredible leadership. Ms. Rodríguez expressed that Mary was always accessible and was willing to help families in any way possible. Ms. Rodríguez requested that Mary return to Fair Oaks School.

Gabriela Coches, student at Fair Oaks School, asked the School Board and Superintendent Baker to bring Mary Martínez back to Fair Oaks School.

Luis Gochez, parent and community member in support of Fair Oaks School, commented that Mary Martínez had been a great leader throughout her years of service at Fair Oaks School. Mr. Gochez requested that Mary return to Fair Oaks School.

Carmelita Jiménez, did not speak because she left the meeting.

Verónica Baez, did not speak because she left the meeting.

Gloria Rangel, parent at Fair Oaks School, expressed her frustration after learning that Mary Martínez would no longer be at Fair Oaks School. Ms. Rangel further added that it has been a downward spiral for Fair Oaks School, as the community has been affected once again. Ms. Rangel requested that the School Board and Superintendent Baker consider no more changes to Fair Oaks School and allow students to finish the school year.

Alexander Rodríguez, student at Fair Oaks, expressed sadness after learning that Mary Martínez would no longer be at Fair Oaks School.

Marlene Gaona, teacher at Fair Oaks School, commented that all teachers and staff are afraid to speak about the current situation at Fair Oaks School. Ms. Gaona expressed feeling heartbroken after listening to the students’ testimony.

Emilia Pineda de Chávez, neighbor of Fair Oaks School, expressed that Mary helped the Fair Oaks community tremendously and always did so in a caring, honest, and respectful manner.

****Note: Trustee MacAvoy requested that Discussion Item 10.1 Discussion on Workforce Housing be moved to the agenda before School/Community Reports

10.1 Discussion on Workforce Housing

Margaret Becker of the Redwood City Housing and Human Concerns Committee addressed the School Board with a brief presentation about the Committee’s work in looking at workforce housing needs for employees working in the City limits, including the Redwood City School District. They will be looking at things like how much housing is impacting hiring, how many employees commute from outside Redwood City and what type of housing might be attractive to RCSD employees.

9. School/Community Reports

9.1 Monitoring of the 2018-19 Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) and Presentation of the Proposed Schedule of the Development of the 2019-2022 LCAP + Information on CA Dashboard

Executive Director of Educational Services Montes provided the School Board and Superintendent Baker with a Power Point presentation on the LCAP, which covered goals, funding update, progress on activities, development on LCAP activities, and meetings dates.

10. Discussion Items

10.2 First Reading and Discussion of Board Policy and Administrative Regulations 5116.1 – Intradistrict Open Enrollment

Vice-President Lawson commented she had sent a few corrections to Executive Director of Educational Services Montes pertaining to Board Policy 5116.1.

Executive Director of Educational Services Montes commented that the recommended corrections were made to Board Policy 5116.1.

10.3 First Reading and Discussion of Board Policy and Administrative Regulations 5131.2 – Bullying

Executive Director of Educational Services Montes commented that she received feedback from School Board members and members of the Policy Committee. It was recommended that a complaint form be completed and submitted to Director of Student Services Antonio Pérez.

Superintendent Baker expressed that principals had not reviewed the aforementioned policy. Superintendent Baker added that after the first reading, the policy would come back to the School Board for a second reading and approval.

Public Comments:

Victor Tena, parent at Fair Oaks School, addressed the School Board and Superintendent Baker about a particular bullying incident that happened to his son. Mr. Tena expressed his concern to the School Board and Superintendent Baker and insisted that a thorough consideration be taken on cases of bullying.

In response to Mr. Tena’s comment, Superintendent Baker expressed that the district-wide protocol is for principals to notify parents within 24 hours. Superintendent Baker added that in severe cases, principals or office staff need to contact 911 immediately.

In addition to Mr. Tena’s comment, Executive Director of Educational Services Montes explained that board meetings are not the place to discuss personal testimony in order to assure confidentiality. Executive Director of Educational Services Montes expressed that the School Board, Superintendent Baker and Administration want to listen to everyone, but that issues of confidentiality need to be honored.

Alma Rubio, parent at Garfield School, spoke about an incident that involved her daughter. Ms. Rubio expressed distress at the manner in which the situation was handled by the school staff. Ms. Rubio pleaded that bullying matters be taken seriously and proactively.

10.4 First Reading and Discussion of Board Policy and Administrative Regulations 5157 – Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer+ (LGBTQ+)

Executive Director of Educational Services Linda Montes met with the Policy Subcommittee and made corrections and edits to the aforementioned Board Policy. Once the corrections were made, Executive Director of Educational Services Montes sent the Board Policy to the Chief Deputy County Counsel for a final review and approval.

11. Consent Items

The board approved the Consent Items (Díaz-Slocum/MacAvoy; 5-0), taking the following action:

11.1 Recommendation re: Acceptance of Donations

11.2 Recommendation re: Ratification of Warrant Register, October 1, 2018-October 31, 2018

11.3 Recommendation re: Approval of Addendum #2 to 2018-19 Measure U Application for Roy Cloud School

11.4 Recommendation re: Approval of Addendum to 2018-19 Measure U Application for Taft Community School

11.5 Recommendation re: Approval of Agreement between the Redwood City School District and the City of Redwood City for the Fiscal Year 2018-2019

11.6 Recommendation re: Approval of the Agreement between City of Redwood City and Redwood City School District (Redwood City Community Schools)

11.7 Recommendation re: Approval of the Agreement between the San Mateo County Office of Education and the Redwood City School District for the Fiscal Year 2018-2019

11.8 Recommendation re: Approval of Water Safety Program, Special Education Department

12.3 Recommendation re: Adoption of Resolution 15, Funding for Preschool Programs for 2018-19, Amendment 01 12.4 Recommendation re: Approval of Adelante Spanish Immersion School Legacy DSA Closeout Add Service with Gelfand Partners 12.5 Recommendation re: Approval of Roosevelt Upper Blacktop Geotechnical Investigation with Ninyo and Moore

 

12. Action Items

12.1 Review and Approve the Low-Performing Students Block Grant

The School Board approved the low-performing students block grant (Díaz-Slocum, Lawson; 5-0).

President McBride (Ayes)

Vice-President Lawson (Ayes)

Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)

Trustee Díaz-Slocum (Ayes)

Trustee Márquez (Ayes)

12.2 Recommendation re: Adoption of Resolution 14, Approval of November 16, 2018 CDC Closure Due to Unsafe Air Quality Resulting from California Fires

The School Board adopted Resolution 14, approval of November 16, 2018 CDC closure due to unsafe air quality resulting from California fires (Lawson, MacAvoy; 5-0).

President McBride (Ayes)

Vice-President Lawson (Ayes)

Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)

Trustee Díaz-Slocum (Ayes)

Trustee Márquez (Ayes)

12.6 Recommendation re: Adoption of Resolution 16, Approval of Avigilon Security Camera System Sole Source

The School Board adopted Resolution 16, approval of Avigilon Security camera system sole source (Díaz-Slocum, MacAvoy; 5-0).

President McBride (Ayes)

Vice-President Lawson (Ayes)

Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)

Trustee Díaz-Slocum (Ayes)

Trustee Márquez (Ayes)

12.7 Recommendation re: Adoption of Resolution 17, Redcat Audio Sole Source Resolution

The School Board adopted Resolution 17, Redcat Audio Sole Source Resolution (Lawson, Díaz-Slocum; 5-0).

President McBride (Ayes)

Vice-President Lawson (Ayes)

Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)

Trustee Díaz-Slocum (Ayes)

Trustee Márquez (Ayes)

12.8 Recommendation re: Approval of Request for Proposal (RFP) for Procuring the Services of a Food Service Management Company for the 2019-20 Fiscal Year 

The School Board approved the Request for Proposal (RFP) for procuring the services of a Food Service Management Company (Díaz-Slocum, Márquez; 5-0).

President McBride (Ayes)

Vice-President Lawson (Ayes)

Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)

Trustee Díaz-Slocum (Ayes)

Trustee Márquez (Ayes)

 

13. Board and Superintendent Reports

13.1 Report from Board Members and Superintendent

Vice-President Lawson reported attending two education committee meetings. Vice-President Lawson reported attending a Policy Committee meeting with Trustee MacAvoy. Furthermore, Vice-President Lawson also attended the California School Boards Association Annual Education Conference and Trade Show. Vice-President Lawson also reported attending the Kennedy Middle School Winter Concert.

Trustee MacAvoy reported attending many parent meetings, in addition to the California School Boards Association Annual Education Conference and Trade Show. Trustee MacAvoy expressed that there were many great break out sessions at the CSBA Conference.

Trustee Díaz-Slocum reported attending the 2x2x2 Government Relations meeting. In addition, Trustee Díaz-Slocum reported attending the Food Service Committee meeting. Furthermore, Trustee Díaz-Slocum attended the California School Boards Association Annual Education Conference and Trade Show.

Trustee Márquez reported attending the California School Boards Association Annual Education Conference and Trade Show Conference and commented that she obtained a lot of great and useful information.

President McBride reported attending a Chan Zuckerberg Initiative reception. President McBride commented that Priscilla Chan’s speech had been great! Furthermore, President McBride commented that Christina Huezo had done a great job during the event.

Superintendent Baker reported organizing different activities for the week that dealt with the start of the transition for the Planning for the Future process. Superintendent Baker commented he would be planning to attend meetings at several schools to speak to parents about the Planning for the Future process. Superintendent Baker reminded School Board members about the Holiday Breakfast the upcoming Friday.

14. Information

14.1 Information on San Mateo County Investment Fund – October, 2018

There were no comments or questions from the School Board or Superintendent Baker.

15. Correspondence

Trustee MacAvoy reported receiving email about the Planning for the Future process.

16. Other Business/Suggested Items for Future Agenda

Trustee MacAvoy recommended agendizing a Board Policy discussion about where to place public comments on non-agendized items on the board meeting agenda given all the comments of late, which can make other people wait in the audience to speak on agendized items.

17. Board Agenda Calendar

17.1 Changes to the Board Agenda Schedule

18. Adjournment (Action Required)

The board adjourned the meeting at 10:39 p.m. (Márquez/Díaz-Slocum; 5-0).

President McBride (Ayes)

Vice-President Lawson (Ayes)

Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)

Trustee Díaz-Slocum (Ayes)

Trustee Márquez (Ayes)

Alisa MacAvoy, Clerk