March 8, 2023
REDWOOD CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Redwood City, California
APPROVED MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
March 8, 2023
REGULAR BOARD MEETING
1. Call to Order
President Márquez called the Closed Session to order at 5:46 p.m.
1.1 Roll Call
Present at the Closed Board meeting: President Cecilia Márquez; Trustees Mike Wells, Alisa MacAvoy, and David Weekly; and Superintendent Baker.
Others present during the Closed Board meeting: Maeve Mulholland, Ramaah Sadasivam, Caiti Busch, Deputy Superintendent Wendy Kelly, and CBO Rick Edson.
Absent for the Closed Board Meeting: Vice-President Janet Lawson.
2. Oral Communication on Closed Session Items Only
None.
3. Closed Session - 5:45 PM
3.1 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL—EXISTING LITIGATION (Paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9). Case name unspecified: confidential pupil matter
3.2 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL—ANTICIPATED LITIGATION. Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9: 1 Potential Case
3.3 Conference with Labor Negotiators (§54957.6) Agency designated representative: Wendy Kelly Employee organization: RCTA
4. Reconvene to Regular Session at Approximately 7:00 PM
4.1 Roll Call
Others present during the Regular Board meeting: Assistant Superintendent Liz Wolfe, Eliana Garcia, Susana Garcia-Fernandez, Cynthia Cardona, Michelle Phan, Nick Fanourgiakis, Chandra Leonardo, David Camarena, Liz Calderon, Itzel Gloria, Gonzalo Cordova, and many others.
4.2 Report Out on Closed Session from March 8, 2023
During the Closed Session, the School Board unanimously approved a settlement agreement in the case of Parents v. Redwood City School District.
5. Welcome
President Márquez welcomed those present.
6. Changes to the Agenda
None.
7. Approval of the Agenda
The School Board approved the agenda as submitted (MacAvoy, Wells; 4-0).
Trustee Weekly (Ayes)
Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)
Trustee Wells (Ayes)
Vice-President Lawson (Absent)
President Márquez (Ayes)
8. Oral Communication
Speaker’s Cards:
Chris Robell expressed his disagreement on the bond measure and expressed there is more need on operating expenses. Additionally, he commented bond oversight meetings should be open to the public.
9. Bond Program Consent Items (Action Required)
The School Board approved the Bond Program Consent Items (MacAvoy, Wells; 4-0), taking the following action:
9.1 Recommendation re: Approval of Bond Program Consent Items
9.2 Recommendation re: Approval of Measure T Bond Program Tracking List of Items Under $20k
9.3 Recommendation re: Approval of Architect Additional Service Amendment #12 with CAW for Orion Alternative School (Formerly John Gill School)
9.4 Recommendation re: Approval of New Buildings, Modernization and Sitework, Bid Package G, Change Order 15 to the Agreement with Rodan Builders for Garfield Community School
9.5 Recommendation re: Approval of Proposal for Play Structure Soft Flooring with KYA at the 909 Roosevelt Avenue Site
Trustee Weekly (Ayes)
Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)
Trustee Wells (Ayes)
Vice-President Lawson (Absent)
President Márquez (Ayes)
10. Bond Program Action Items
None.
11. School/Community Reports
11.1 Presentations on School Plans for Student Achievement: McKinley Institute of Technology (MIT) and Kennedy Middle School
McKinley Institute of Technology (MIT) SPSA Presentation:
MIT school administrators Susana Garcia-Fernandez, Principal, and Cynthia Cardona, Community School Coordinator, reported to the School Board an update of their school’s Single Plan for Student Achievement (SPSA) report. MIT school administrators reported on the goals and actions to improve attendance and reclassification rates, and to demonstrate at least one year’s growth in ELA and Math. In addition, the MIT team also reported on school events, student voices, and parent outreach. The MIT team informed the School Board that they would find it helpful if MIT had a full-time Assistant Principal. Furthermore, the MIT team would like the School Board and community to recognize that MIT is now the second school in the district with a high percentage of free and reduced lunch students and would like to receive equitable resources and funding.
Trustee Wells expressed his excitement upon hearing about all the great work the community schools are doing. He stated how impressed he was by the improved behavior, decrease in suspensions, and increase in reclassification rates at MIT. He appreciated the reminder of the mindset shift regarding MIT and its needs. He praised MIT’s strategies and impact on meeting their goals.
Trustee MacAvoy thanked Susana and Cynthia for the presentation. She gave a shout-out to the teachers who joined the meeting in person. She expressed that the progress made was impressive. She praised Susana for the personal attention she gives to the Newcomer families. Trustee MacAvoy commented she loved hearing about the “student voice,” and student ownership regarding their goals. Trustee MacAvoy thanked Susana for all of her work.
Trustee Weekly thanked Susana for the presentation and all the work she does for the kids. Also, he thanked the teachers for attending the board meeting and looking out for the students. He praised the MIT team for trying different strategies and for taking note of what works or what doesn’t work. Trustee Weekly thanked Susana for all of her work.
President Márquez thanked the MIT administrator team for their presentation. Additionally, President Márquez commented that the presentation showcased Susana’s leadership skills. Furthermore, she shared that she, the other Board Trustees, and Superintendent Baker received an email from the teachers that communicated what a great leader Susana is. Furthermore, President Márquez praised Susana for her newsletter and thanked Cynthia for her enthusiasm for making parents feel welcome.
Superintendent Baker commented on the email sent by some of the MIT staff members that expressed what a leader should be at a school site. Superintendent Baker congratulated Susana for her leadership skills and the MIT staff for supporting the work that Susana does. Furthermore, Superintendent Baker praised Susana for her impeccable job of presenting about MIT at Garfield.
Kennedy Middle School SPSA Presentation:
Kennedy school administrators Nick Fanourgiakis, Principal; Vice-Principals Chandra Leonardo and David Camarena; and Elizabeth Calderon, Community School Coordinator, reported to the School Board an update of their school’s Single Plan for Student Achievement (SPSA) report. Kennedy administrators reported on the goals and actions to improve attendance and reclassification rates, and demonstrate at least one year’s growth in ELA and Math. In addition, the Kennedy team also reported on school events, student voices, and parent outreach. The Kennedy team informed the School Board that they would find it helpful if they could receive funding to have a total of five 0-period math classes, a reading specialist, and other supports.
Trustee Wells expressed being happy to hear about Kennedy. He stated he is looking forward to attending the school musical. Trustee Wells praised Kennedy for the 52% improvement demonstrated by the emerging bilingual learners. Additionally, he praised the work that goes into creating the students’ schedules while also considering the students’ interests. Lastly, Trustee Weekly expressed he appreciated hearing about the inclusive classrooms for RSP students.
Trustee Weekly thanked the administrators, staff, and teachers for all the work that they do. Trustee Weekly expressed being impressed by the ELPAC data. Additionally, Trustee Weekly asked Nick about the use of restorative practices to which Nick responded.
Trustee MacAvoy praised the Kennedy leadership team. She stated hearing great things about Kennedy from parents and students. Trustee MacAvoy thanked the Kennedy team for the presentation and for all the work that they do. Trustee MacAvoy inquired about what the vision would be if Kennedy acquired a reading specialist, to which Nick responded. Furthermore, Trustee MacAvoy commented she loved hearing how Kennedy supports student voices and how it is apparent that the leadership knows the students well. She was also impressed by the approach of having RSP students join general education classes. She thanked the Kennedy team for all of their work and gave a shout-out to all the Kennedy teachers and staff who joined the meeting.
President Márquez echoed the previous sentiments. She thanked the Kennedy team for the presentation. She also praised Nick’s enthusiasm. President Márquez acknowledged the fact that Kennedy is a large middle school. She praised Kennedy for their reclassification rate improvement. President Márquez thanked the Kennedy admin team for their work.
Superintendent Baker and Nick discussed the instructional rounds. Superintendent Baker requested that Nick make a note of the changes that happen as a result of the instructional rounds. Superintendent Baker also mentioned Kennedy’s platinum ticket. A platinum ticket is a strategy to identify what to look for in a classroom. Nick explained he created a survey to gather teacher input. Chandra also commented that the strategies align with MTSS practices. Lastly, Superintendent Baker thanked Liz for starting the Newcomer Center and her data collection “dashboard.” Superintendent Baker suggested that Kennedy share their dashboard with the other schools. Superintendent Baker thanked the Kennedy team for all the work that they do for such a large middle school.
12. Discussion Items
12.1 Discussion on Recommendation for Mathematics Curriculum Adoption, Grades K-5, 2023-24 school year
Assistant Superintendent Liz Wolfe presented, to the School Board, a PowerPoint on the Illustrative Math curriculum overview. She also informed the School Board on why the teachers chose this curriculum. Lastly, Assistant Superintendent Liz Wolfe informed the School Board that the curriculum will be available at the district office for the public to review the curriculum materials.
Trustee Weekly stated he researched the curriculum and learned it had a high rating. He was impressed by how well-supported the curriculum is.
Trustee MacAvoy stated she trusted the judgment of the teachers. She praised the teachers who spent the extra time learning the material and gave their recommendations. Trustee MacAvoy acknowledged it is an expensive curriculum, so the district wants to ensure it is an effective curriculum.
Trustee Weekly stated the new curriculum gives hope in improving student math skills.
Trustee Wells agreed that it is exciting to be looking at a new curriculum. He stated the curriculum is designed for learning. He praised the pilot team and is looking forward to reviewing the materials.
President Márquez echoed the previous sentiments. She thanked the team. She is hopeful that the curriculum will benefit the RCSD students.
13. Consent Items
The School Board approved the Consent Items (Wells, Weekly; 4-0), taking the following action:
13.1 Recommendation re: Approval of Consent Items
13.2 Recommendation re: Approval of February 8th, 2023 Board Minutes
13.3 Recommendation re: Approval of February 15th, 2023 Board Minutes
13.4 Recommendation re: Approval of the Memorandum of Understanding between
San Carlos School District and Redwood City School District
13.5 Recommendation re: Approval of Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement between
the Redwood City School District and the Boys and Girls Club of the Peninsula (BGCP)
for the Fiscal Year 2022-2023
13.6 Recommendation re: Approval of Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement between
the Redwood City School District (RCSD) and Police Activities League (PAL) for the
Fiscal Year 2022-2023
13.7 Recommendation re: Approval of Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement between
the Redwood City School District and the Saint Francis Center for Siena Youth Center
for the Fiscal Year 2022-2023
13.8 Recommendation re: Approval of Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement between
the Redwood City School District and the Envisioneers for the Fiscal Year 2022-2023
13.9 Recommendation re: Approval of Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement between
the Redwood City School District and Casa Circulo Cultural for the Fiscal Year 2022-
2023
13.10 Recommendation re: Approval of Amendment No. 2 to the Agreement Between
Redwood City School District and One Life Counseling
13.11 Recommendation re: Second Reading and Approval of Board Policy 6164.2 –
Guidance/Counseling Services
13.12 Recommendation re: Approval of Addendum No. 2 to the Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) between Redwood City School District (RCSD) and The Sobrato
Organization (TSO) to Partner on the 750 Bradford & 603 Jefferson Development Project
in Downtown Redwood City
13.13 Recommendation re: Addendum to 2022-23 Measure U Application for Taft
Community School
13.14 Recommendation re: Addendum to 2022-23 Measure U Application for Henry
Ford School
13.15 Recommendation re: Addendum to 2022-23 Measure U Application for Kennedy
Middle School
13.16 Recommendation re: Denial of Classified General Leave Request(s)
13.17 Recommendation re: Approval of Legal Services Agreement with Dannis,
Woliver & Kelley
13.18 Recommendation re: Ratification of Warrant Registers, February 1, 2023 –
February 28, 2023
Trustee Weekly (Ayes)
Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)
Trustee Wells (Ayes)
Vice-President Lawson (Absent)
President Márquez (Ayes)
14. Action Items
14.1 Recommendation re: Adoption of Resolution No. 26 to Submit Continued Funding Application (CFA) 2023-24 for Child Development Centers
No questions or comments.
The School Board adopted Resolution No. 26 to submit Continued Funding Application (CFA) 2023-24 for Child Development Centers (MacAvoy, Wells; 4-0).
Trustee Weekly (Ayes)
Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)
Trustee Wells (Ayes)
Vice-President Lawson (Absent)
President Márquez (Ayes)
14.2 Recommendation re: Second Reading and Approval of Board Policy 5113 - Absences and Excuses and Adoption of Resolution No. 27
No questions or comments.
The School Board approved the second reading and approval of Board Policy 5113 - Absences and Excuses and adopted Resolution No. 27 (MacAvoy, Wells; 4-0).
Trustee Weekly (Ayes)
Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)
Trustee Wells (Ayes)
Vice-President Lawson (Absent)
President Márquez (Ayes)
14.3 Recommendation re: Adoption of Resolution No. 28, Reduction or Elimination of Certificated Services for Fiscal Year 2022-2023
Trustee Wells thanked Wendy and Erin for providing a well-informed description.
Trustee MacAvoy commented that some positions were temporary and a result of COVID funding and would eventually go away.
The School Board adopted Resolution No. 28, reduction or elimination of certificated services for fiscal year 2022-2023 (MacAvoy, Wells; 4-0).
Trustee Weekly (Ayes)
Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)
Trustee Wells (Ayes)
Vice-President Lawson (Absent)
President Márquez (Ayes)
14.4 Recommendation re: Adoption of Resolution No. 29, Reduction of Certain Classified Services for Fiscal Year 2022-2023
No questions or comments.
The School Board adopted Resolution No. 29, reduction of certain classified services for fiscal year 2022-2023 (Wells, MacAvoy; 4-0).
Trustee Weekly (Ayes)
Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)
Trustee Wells (Ayes)
Vice-President Lawson (Absent)
President Márquez (Ayes)
14.5 Recommendation re: Adoption of Resolution No. 30, Resolution of the Board of Trustees of Redwood City School District Appointing Measure T Citizens' Oversight Committee to Oversee Measure S
Trustee MacAvoy and Trustee Wells agreed that this resolution is a good idea and makes sense.
Trustee Wells commented that an agenda item at the CBOC meeting would discuss the roles and responsibilities of the CBOC members.
The School Board adopted Resolution No. 30, Resolution of the Board of Trustees of Redwood City School District Appointing Measure T Citizens' Oversight Committee to Oversee Measure S (Wells, Weekly; 4-0).
Trustee Weekly (Ayes)
Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)
Trustee Wells (Ayes)
Vice-President Lawson (Absent)
President Márquez (Ayes)
14.6 Recommendation re: Discussion and Approval of Prop 28 funds for the 2023-24 school year
Trustee MacAvoy expressed her excitement over receiving funding for STEAM teachers, maker space, and music.
Trustee Wells shared that the funding formula is 70% based on enrollment and 30% based on low income and the money cannot be concentrated toward priority sites that may have greater needs for support.
President Márquez acknowledged the benefits of the Prop 28 funds in keeping students engaged.
The School Board approved the Prop 28 funds for the 2023-24 school year (MacAvoy, Wells; 4-0).
Trustee Weekly (Ayes)
Trustee MacAvoy (Ayes)
Trustee Wells (Ayes)
Vice-President Lawson (Absent)
President Márquez (Ayes)
15. Board and Superintendent Reports
15.1 Report from Board Members and Superintendent
Trustee Weekly reported attending his first LCAP meeting.
Trustee MacAvoy reported attending an SMC School Board Association meeting with President Márquez and Superintendent Baker. She also attended a Safe Routes to Schools meeting.
Trustee Wells reported attending an LCAP meeting and a Bond Team meeting. Additionally, Trustee Wells visited Adelante Selby for NUA training. He also attended Roosevelt’s reading fair and the Chambers Education committee meeting.
President Márquez reported she toured the MIT and Roosevelt kitchens. She praised the CNS staff for all their work. She also attended the Superintendent Advisory Committee and a CalKIDS Webinar.
Superintendent Baker reported attending the Superintendent Advisory Council. He also reported receiving an award, on behalf of the district, for its partnership with Stanford. Due to the partnership with Stanford, the RCSD district will also receive a grant from the state. He also attended the meeting at Garfield and thanked Lupe Torres-Khalil and Susana Garcia-Fernandez for their presentations.
16. Information
None.
17. Correspondence
Trustee Wells reported receiving correspondence from community members regarding CBOC.
18. Other Business/Suggested Items for Future Agenda
Trustee MacAvoy suggested that the School Board and community receive a refresher on the roles and responsibilities of the new measure.
Superintendent Baker requested a Special Board meeting for the trustees to complete the CSBA Delegation Assembly ballot on Tuesday, March 14, at 8:45 am.
19. Board Meetings Calendar
19.1 Changes to the Board Meetings Calendar
Superintendent Baker informed the School Board that on March 22nd, the Bond Team would like to provide an update. The Study Session would commence at 5:45 PM.
20. Adjournment
The School Board adjourned the meeting at 9:31 p.m. (Weekly, MacAvoy; 4-0).