Tuesday, May 12, 2026

New Principal Announcement

During the Reed Union School District board meeting on May 12, 2026, the board introduced Amelia Elamari as the new principal of Bel Air Elementary School, who will officially begin her role on July 1. Elamari was praised for her instructional leadership and commitment to academic excellence, qualities that stood out throughout the extensive interview process.

Public Comments and Concerns

Three public comments were read during the meeting, with community members expressing concerns about the math curriculum and student challenges, advocating for remote public commentary, and providing feedback on district meetings' live streaming. Specifically, there were requests to expand access to seventh-grade honors math and to pilot a flexible placement for advancing math students earlier, suggesting this could better challenge advanced learners.

Approval of the Agenda

The board approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda unanimously (vote: approved 5-0).

PTA and Foundation Updates

Updates from the PTA and the Reed Schools Foundation were presented. The PTA highlighted successful recent events such as staff appreciation week and upcoming initiatives. The foundation reported on the Read Derby fundraiser, bringing in over $242,000, and announced upcoming events including a spring art show, the Celebration of Education, and new family welcoming initiatives.

Administrative Reports and Cross-Curricular Integration

Reports from the administrative team included an update from Mr. Stewart of Del Mar Middle School, focusing on efforts towards cross-curricular integration. Highlights included team collaborations on projects linking science, physical education, and design lab. Del Mar also initiated projects that pair with community involvement and emphasized that integrating curricula in middle school requires strategic planning and teacher collaboration.

Superintendent's Update

Superintendent Dr. Kimberly McGrath provided several updates, including the status of employee evaluations and challenges with securing new food services vendors, noting that the potential for a new vendor for breakfast seemed unlikely. She also addressed the ongoing strategic planning process, updates on crossing guard discussions, and preliminary property tax revenue projections. Additionally, she congratulated Del Mar Middle School for its recognition as a national School to Watch.

Trustee Reports

Trustees shared their activities over the past month, including involvement in school events such as staff appreciation breakfasts, site visits to school facilities, and attendance at parent education workshops. They expressed gratitude to the district's teachers and staff for their continued hard work and dedication.

Potential Bond Poll Results

A presentation by FM3 via Zoom reported on a survey concerning a proposed $115 million bond measure, which would levy $30 per $100,000 of assessed value. The initial survey results indicated 61% of participants would vote in favor, while 32% would oppose it. The measure would require 55% plus one vote for approval. The board discussed prioritizing uses of bond funds and continued outreach efforts to inform and engage the community about the bond measure.

Action and Next Steps

The board plans to continue discussions and evaluations on several matters, including finding potential vendors for food services, addressing community concerns on the math curriculum, and strategizing further outreach regarding the proposed bond measure. Future meetings will involve updates on these matters as well as the continued implementation of the strategic plan.