Tuesday, February 11, 2025

The Reed Union School District board unanimously adopted a new reserve policy and approved multiple staff job descriptions at its February 11 meeting, part of ongoing efforts to update district governance and organizational structure. The meeting also featured reports on library programs, enrollment projections, and updates on teacher contract negotiations currently underway.

Closed Session and Agenda Changes

The board met in closed session beginning at 4:50 p.m. to discuss potential litigation, labor negotiations, and real property matters. President Sherry Wangenheim reported no action to announce when the board reconvened in open session at 6:20 p.m. Trustees voted to reorganize the agenda, moving administrative reports ahead of public comment. They also planned to return to closed session after the regular meeting but ultimately postponed due to the late hour, with the meeting adjourning at 9:27 p.m.

Student Performance and Reports

Before public comment, first-grade students from Reed Elementary performed a song under the direction of music teacher Carolyn Balfe, previewing a program scheduled for the following day. Representatives from the PTA and The Foundation for Reed Schools reported on current activities. Trustees shared updates from recent school visits, foundation meetings, and parent education events, and congratulated the Del Mar Robotics Team while recognizing retiring Reed Elementary Principal Dr. Mary Niesyn.

Financial and Enrollment Updates

Superintendent McGrath reported that the district has met certain goals for contributions to the OPEB (retiree health benefits) Trust Fund and noted that federal funding reductions will impact the district by approximately $140,000, though the situation remains fluid. Chief Business Official Dr. Chris J. Kim presented current enrollment data along with class size projections and staffing levels for the 2025-2026 school year.

Library and Academic Programs

District librarians Ryan Sonneville and Lisa Brigulio, along with media specialist Lindsey Smith, presented the annual library report detailing programs and future plans across all three schools. Coordinator of Educational Services Nicole Trickett and Director of Student Services Brian Lynch delivered the mid-year Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) report for 2024-2025, including expenditure information.

Teacher Negotiations

Reed District Teachers' Association President Shea O'Brien, a Del Mar science teacher, presented information on ongoing contract negotiations for 2025-2027. Superintendent McGrath separately reported that negotiations have begun with a productive initial session.

Board Actions

The board unanimously approved several items:

• A new Reserve Policy (BP 3105.1) following second reading, with wording changes suggested by Trustee Liz Webb
• Updated job description for Elementary Principal
• New job description for Instructional Teacher-on-Special Assignment
• New job description for Proposition 28 Music & Art Teacher-on-Special Assignment, a position funded by state arts education funding
• Updated job description for Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
• Board policies aligning with California School Boards Association recommendations (second reading, part of consent agenda)

Trustees conducted first reading of additional board policies, with comments to be incorporated before second reading at the March 11 meeting. The board also approved routine consent agenda items including personnel reports and warrants, along with minutes from January meetings.