In a notable enhancement to school security, the board unveiled two K9 teams funded by a donation from the Make Our Schools Safe organization. The teams, comprising K9 Alyssa and K9 Nitro, are trained to detect guns and explosives, respectively. This initiative was presented with enthusiasm, highlighting the significant role these canines will play in safeguarding campuses. Handlers Brian Palato and Michael Lejoy were introduced, having completed rigorous training to respond to potential threats. This addition was met with appreciation from the board, emphasizing the importance of the canines in creating a safer school environment. The presentation concluded with a lighter moment where attendees were invited to take pictures with the K9s.

Shifting from safety to personnel issues, the board confronted serious allegations concerning Jir Clark, a volunteer football coach arrested for fighting students over a social media post. This incident, compounded by Clark’s previous accusations of similar behavior at Monarch High School, prompted strong reactions from board members. One member expressed frustration, questioning the district’s oversight and how such an individual could move between schools, stating, “This puts the district in an extremely poor light and quite frankly I’m a little bit pissed off about it.” Dr. Lozano, the chief human resources officer, explained that the district was unaware of Clark’s past behavior prior to his transfer, which was part of a staffing reallocation process due to budget cuts. The board remained focused on understanding how these oversight gaps occurred and ensuring accountability moving forward.

The board also addressed a contentious employee termination case involving allegations of bullying, harassment, and insubordination. Opinions varied among board members about the proposed disciplinary actions. While some advocated for termination, others argued for a more measured response. The discussion centered on finding a balanced approach that acknowledges the severity of the incidents while considering the employee’s long history of service.

Further, the meeting delved into supplemental pay and resource allocation, scrutinizing approximately $24 million earmarked for various roles, with most funds directed towards teachers. Concerns were raised about the criteria for certain supplements, like those for Special Olympics coaching, prompting the board to seek clarity and ensure alignment with established standards.

The meeting also considered structural and procedural enhancements, including a motion to revert the reporting schedule for advisory and committee chairs back to monthly from quarterly. This decision stemmed from public concerns that reducing reporting frequency would hinder community involvement and delay the timely communication of issues.

In another significant agenda item, the board tackled the hiring process for a new general counsel following the recent resignation of the current counsel effective January 9. The board debated the timeline and methods, weighing the benefits of an internal versus external search. Discussions emphasized the importance of a swift and thorough process, with some members advocating for the legal services committee’s involvement in reviewing applications. The board also contemplated the potential costs and efficiency of engaging an external firm for the search, ultimately deciding to continue discussions in a special meeting.