Palo Alto Unified School District public meetings in 2021
69 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Board Policy Review Committee
The Board Policy Review Committee will discuss BP 6146.1 High School Graduation Requirements, including proposed changes from a parent representative regarding alternative requirements and exemptions. The committee will also approve minutes from November 19, 2021, prioritize future policies from a matrix, and discuss committee members for 2022. An information item on updated CSBA sample regulation for AR 6146.1 is provided for reference.
- Review of BP 6146.1 High School Graduation Requirements with proposed changes on alternative graduation requirements and exemptions
- Approval of minutes from November 19, 2021 BPRC meeting
- Information on updated CSBA sample regulation for AR 6146.1 (September 2021)
- Prioritization of six policies from a matrix including Mobile Communication Devices, Civility, Child Care and Development, COVID-19 Mitigation Plan, Response to Instruction and Intervention
- Discussion of BPRC committee members for 2022
The committee unanimously approved the November 19, 2021 minutes. Members agreed not to adopt several sample policies regarding mobile devices, civility, COVID-19 mitigation, and private school enrollment for children with disabilities. The committee tabled decisions on child care and instruction intervention policies and deferred a decision on high school graduation unit requirements pending further staff research.
- Approved November 19, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Decided not to adopt BP 5131.8 Mobile Communication Devices
- Decided not to adopt BP 1313 Civility
- Decided not to adopt BP 0470 COVID-19 Mitigation Plan
- Decided not to adopt BP 6164.41 Children with Disabilities Enrolled by Their Parents in Private School
- Tabled BP 5148 Child Care and Development for further staff consideration
- Tabled BP 6120 Response to Instruction and Intervention for further staff consideration
- Deferred decision on BP 6146.1 High School Graduation Requirements pending staff data and district surveys
City/School Committee Meeting
The City/School Committee meeting scheduled for December 16, 2021, is archived. The agenda and minutes for this meeting are available for review.
- Agenda and minutes available for archived meeting
- Meeting category: Archived Meeting Files
Regular Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board will hold its annual organization meeting to elect officers, select a representative for the County Committee on School District Organization, and approve the meeting schedule for the 2022-23 school year.
- Election of Board President for 2022
- Approval of 2022-23 Board meeting schedule
- Selection of Board representative for County Committee Election
- Closed session to discuss litigation and employee matters
- Public comment on closed session items
The Board of Education elected Kenneth Dauber as President and Jennifer DiBrienza as Vice President. The Board also approved the 2022-23 meeting calendar, new course proposals, and the 2021-22 first interim budget report.
- Elected Kenneth Dauber as Board President (5-0)
- Elected Jennifer DiBrienza as Board Vice President (5-0)
- Approved 2022-23 Board of Education meeting schedule (5-0)
- Approved new course proposals for 2022-23 school year (5-0)
- Certified 2021-22 First Interim Budget Report and approved revisions (5-0)
- Authorized intra-district limited lottery for grades 6-8 to attend Fletcher Middle School (5-0)
- Approved consent calendar including Tower Renovation Project bid and Hoover Elementary design services (5-0)
- Named Board President as representative for the County Committee (5-0)
Fiscal Advisory Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Advisory Committee will meet to review the meeting agenda for December 9, 2021. The session is a procedural gathering to file and discuss the agenda items.
- Review of 20211209FiscalAdvisoryCommitteeAgendaDecember9.pdf
- Fiscal Advisory Committee meeting
- Meeting agenda filing
Bond Citizens' Oversight Committee Meeting
The Bond Citizens’ Oversight Committee will consider several agenda items, including approval of the August 18, 2021 meeting minutes and a review of the draft financial and performance audits prepared by Eide Bailly, the district’s bond auditor. Committee members will also examine the draft annual report to the Board of Education, discuss updates to elementary projects such as Hoover changes and the Hoover/Palo Verde temporary campus at Greendell, and receive a status update on district projects. The meeting will conclude with setting the date for the next committee session.
- Approval of draft minutes from the August 18, 2021 meeting
- Review of the draft financial and performance audits from Eide Bailly
- Review of the draft COC Annual Report to the Board of Education
- Discussion of elementary project changes, including Hoover updates and the Hoover/Palo Verde temporary campus at Greendell
- Program status update on district projects
The committee reviewed draft financial and performance audits for Measure A and Measure Z, which found no exceptions in district record keeping. Members discussed standardizing category language in future reports for consistency. The committee also reviewed a draft annual report to the Board of Education.
- Approved agenda order (7-0)
- Approved August 18, 2021, meeting minutes (7-0)
Board Equity Oversight Committee Meeting
The BEOC will review and approve minutes from the November 9, 2021 meeting. The main item is a final review of the Systemwide Integrated Framework for Transformation (SWIFT) 2021-24 before it is presented to the Board of Education on December 14. Community stakeholder feedback is encouraged.
- Approval of minutes from November 9, 2021 BEOC meeting
- Final review of Systemwide Integrated Framework for Transformation (SWIFT) 2021-24
- SWIFT plan to be presented to the Board of Education on December 14, 2021
- Community stakeholder feedback invited
The committee discussed high-level goals and metrics for Board adoption and the presentation of the SWIFT plan. Members reviewed stakeholder feedback processes and a tentative timeline for Board approval in March.
- Discussed presenting high-level goals with metrics for Board adoption
- Discussed presenting the SWIFT plan to the Board as a report on December 14
- Discussed identifying core groups for stakeholder feedback via Let's Talk
- Discussed providing the Board with next steps, future actions, and a timeline
- Discussed revisiting and expanding the data source for Goal 4
- Discussed maintaining the current definition of equity
- Proposed reviewing stakeholder input and progress by mid to late February
- Proposed presenting to the Board for approval or adoption in March
Property Committee Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Property Committee will meet virtually on December 6, 2021, to review and recommend items for the December 14 Board of Education meeting. The agenda includes approving minutes from the previous meeting and authorizing contracts for school facility projects.
- Approval of minutes from October 25, 2021
- Authorization to re-bid El Carmelo Multipurpose Building Project
- Authorization to award contract for overhead fans at Duveneck, Fairmeadow, and Ohlone Elementary
- Status update on Greendell temporary elementary site
- Status update on Palo Verde temporary relocation plan
Board Policy Review Committee
The Board Policy Review Committee will review and discuss updates to five existing board policies: Universal Complaint Procedures, Emergency Schedules, Staff Development, Special Education Identification, and Student Success Teams. The committee will also approve minutes from the October 15 meeting. These are discussion items meant to inform full board decisions.
- Review BP 1312.3 Universal Complaint Procedures (updates for immigration status, Title IX, and new laws)
- Review BP 3516.5 Emergency Schedules (updates for independent study requirements after emergency closures)
- Review BP 4131 Staff Development (incorporating social-emotional learning, trauma-informed practices, and digital learning)
- Review BP 6164.4 Special Education Identification (child find obligations during COVID-19 pandemic)
- Review BP 6164.5 Student Success Teams (clarifying SST process, MTSS integration, and staff development)
The Board Policy Review Committee reviewed and agreed to move six policies forward to the Board for final approval. These policies cover universal complaint procedures, emergency schedules, staff development, special education evaluation, student success teams, and high school graduation requirements.
- Approved October 15, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Moved BP 1312.3 Universal Complaint Procedures forward to the Board
- Moved BP 3516.5 Emergency Schedules forward to the Board
- Moved BP 4131 Staff Development forward to the Board
- Moved BP 6164.4 Identification and Evaluation of Individuals for Special Education forward to the Board
- Moved BP 6164.5 Student Success Teams forward to the Board
- Moved BP 6146.1 High School Graduation Requirements forward to the Board
- Decided not to adopt alternative dispute resolution (ADR) language in BP 1312.3 at this time
City/School Committee Meeting
The City/School Committee meeting for Thursday, November 18, 2021, is archived. The agenda and minutes are available for review.
- Meeting archived with agenda and minutes available for download
Regular Board Meeting
The Board of Education will meet to approve certificated and classified personnel items and a consultation agreement with Leadership Associates. The meeting includes a closed session to discuss legal claims, labor negotiations, and employee evaluations.
- Agreement for consultation services with Leadership Associates for superintendent evaluations
- Approval of certificated personnel items
- Approval of classified personnel items
- Closed session discussion regarding Willowbend Apartments vs. Palo Alto Unified School District
- Closed session conference with labor negotiators from PAEA and CSEA
The Board unanimously accepted a liability claim from Willowbend Apartments and approved design services for temporary elementary school sites. Additionally, the Board elected three members to the Santa Clara County Committee on School District Organization.
- Accepted $5,983 claim from Willowbend Apartments (unanimous)
- Approved agenda order (4-0)
- Approved consent calendar including personnel items, warrants, and facility contracts (4-0)
- Approved SVA Architects master agreement amendment for temporary elementary school sites at Greendell and Cubberley (4-0)
- Waived two-meeting rule for County Committee on School District Election (4-0)
- Elected Denise Ramon-Herrera, James Van Pernis, and Ellen Wheeler to the Santa Clara County Committee on School District Organization (4-0)
Board Equity Oversight Committee Meeting
The Board Equity Oversight Committee will review and discuss the Systemwide Integrated Framework for Transformation covering 2021‑2024. The committee will also consider approving the minutes from the October 12, 2021 BEOC meeting. The meeting is conducted virtually via Zoom webinar.
- Approve minutes from the October 12, 2021 BEOC meeting
- Discuss the Systemwide Integrated Framework for Transformation 2021‑24
- Conduct meeting virtually on Zoom (webinar ID 991 1270 3930)
- Meeting held under Executive Order N-29-20 and County Health Officer order
The Board Equity Oversight Committee reviewed several domains of the SWIFT plan and discussed student outcomes, book collection representation, and family engagement. The committee agreed to weave anti-racism into SWIFT Goal 4 while keeping the three existing Building Blocks. The minutes for October 12, 2021, were approved.
- Approved October 12, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Agreed to incorporate anti-racism in SWIFT Goal 4
Property Committee Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Property Committee will review and recommend approval of several items for the November 16 Board of Education meeting, including design services for a new Hoover Elementary School, an alternative elementary school at Greendell and Cubberley, infrastructure repairs at Cubberley, and the El Carmelo multipurpose building project. The committee will also discuss next steps on the alternative elementary site at Greendell and the temporary relocation plan for Palo Verde School.
- Approval of scope, budget, and budget transfer for infrastructure repairs at Cubberley Site A and B wings
- Authorization to issue an addendum to LPA, Inc. for design services for a new Hoover Elementary School
- Amendment to SVA Architects master agreement for design services for an alternative elementary school at Greendell and Cubberley
- Authorization to re-bid the El Carmelo Multipurpose Building Project and issue addendum to Gelfand Partners
- Authorization to award a contract to Syserco for Global Controller Upgrade and Economizer Control Projects
Special Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board of Education will hold a special meeting both virtually and in-person. The meeting includes a recess to closed session to discuss personnel, litigation, and labor negotiations, followed by a reconvening to report on those actions.
- Closed session to discuss personnel evaluations and litigation
- Closed session to discuss labor negotiations with PAEA and CSEA
- Closed session to discuss six claims and student discipline
- Public comment on closed session items allowed before recess
- In-person attendees must provide proof of vaccination or negative test
The Board of Education met in open and closed sessions. No reportable actions were taken during the meeting.
Regular Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board of Education will meet to approve routine personnel items, minutes from a previous meeting, and October purchase orders. The meeting will be held virtually and in-person with public comment opportunities available.
- Approval of certificated and classified personnel items
- Approval of October purchase orders
- Approval of October 19, 2021, Regular Board Meeting minutes
- Closed session to discuss litigation and employee matters
- Public comment on non-agenda items
The Board approved the project scope and budget for temporary classrooms at the Greendell and Cubberley sites. It also revised long-term goals for the Cubberley site and authorized a redesign of the Hoover Elementary project. Several routine personnel and facility items were approved via the consent calendar.
- Approved project scope and budget for temporary classrooms at Greendell and Cubberley sites (5-0)
- Revised Cubberley goals to eliminate District Office relocation and employee housing, and prioritize 20+ acres for a future school (5-0)
- Approved design work for Option D to redesign the Hoover Elementary project (5-0)
- Approved BP 5145.7 Sexual Harassment (Students) (5-0)
- Approved repairs to the pool at Greene Middle School (5-0)
- Approved installation of overhead fans at Duveneck, Fairmeadow, and Ohlone Elementary Schools (5-0)
- Approved BP 1112 Media Relations (5-0)
- Approved October purchase orders and personnel items (5-0)
Property Committee Meeting
The Property Committee will hold a virtual meeting to review and make recommendations on several facility projects for the Board of Education. Items include approving the scope, budget, and authorization to bid for repairs at Greene Middle School pool and infrastructure repairs at Cubberley’s A and B wings. The committee will also discuss future elementary bond projects and the direction of the Hoover Elementary project.
- Approval of minutes from October 11, 2021
- Approval of project scope, budget, and authorization to bid for repairs to Greene Middle School pool
- Authorization to submit plans to the Division of the State Architect for fire alarm projects at Addison, Escondido, Palo Verde, and Greene Middle School
- Approval of scope, budget, and budget transfer for infrastructure repairs at Cubberley site A and B wings
- Discussion on next steps for Hoover Elementary project and future elementary bond projects
City/School Committee Meeting
The City/School Committee held a meeting on October 21, 2021. The agenda and minutes for this meeting are available in the archived meeting files.
- Meeting held on Oct 21, 2021
- Agenda and minutes available in archived files
Regular Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board will approve the agenda order and hear a superintendent report and student board member reports. It will then consider consent calendar items, including certificated and classified personnel approvals, approval of minutes from the October 5 meeting, and September warrants and purchase orders. An open forum will allow public comments on non‑agenda items.
- Approval of Agenda Order
- Superintendent of Schools Report (information only)
- Approval of Certificated Personnel Items (consent calendar)
- Approval of Classified Personnel Items (consent calendar)
- Approval of September Warrants and Purchase Orders
The Board approved the school calendars for 2022-25 and authorized several facility plans, including fire alarm projects and design services. The Board also approved updated policies regarding sexual harassment, suicide prevention, and instructional materials.
- Approved 2022-23, 2023-24, and 2024-25 School Calendars (4-0)
- Authorized DSA plan submissions for projects at Escondido Elementary and Greene and JLS Middle Schools (4-0)
- Authorized DSA plan submissions for fire alarm projects at Addison, Escondido, Palo Verde Elementary, and Greene Middle Schools (4-0)
- Approved design services addendum for HED Architects for fire alarm replacements at Gunn and Palo Alto High Schools (4-0)
- Approved ESSER III Expenditure Plan (4-0)
- Approved salary daily rate increase for substitute teachers (4-0)
- Approved Board Policies on Sexual Harassment, Suicide Prevention, Nondiscrimination/Harassment, and Comprehensive Health Education (4-0)
- Approved BP 6161.1 Selection and Evaluation of Instructional Materials (4-0)
Board Policy Review Committee
The Board Policy Review Committee will discuss proposed changes to Board Policy 1112 Media Relations, changing language from 'encourage' to 'require' that media make prior arrangements to interview or photograph students. They will also review updates to BP 5145.7 Sexual Harassment (Student) to align with new state laws and federal Title IX regulations. The committee will approve minutes from the previous meeting and prioritize future policies. An information item presents updated Title IX complaint procedures.
- Approve minutes from September 17, 2021 BPRC meeting
- BP 1112 Media Relations: propose requiring prior arrangements for media interviews/photos of students
- BP 5145.7 Sexual Harassment (Student): update to reflect AB 34, AB 543, and Title IX regulations
- AR 5145.71 Title IX Sexual Harassment Complaint Procedures (information only, no action)
- Prioritize policies from BPRC matrix for future review
The Board Policy Review Committee approved moving BP 1112 (Media Relations) and BP 5145.7 (Sexual Harassment - Students) forward for Board approval. BP 1312.3 (Universal Complaint Procedures) was tabled for further discussion at a future meeting.
- Approved September 17, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Moved BP 1112 (Media Relations) forward to the Board for approval
- Moved BP 5145.7 (Sexual Harassment - Students) forward to the Board for approval
- Tabled BP 1312.3 (Universal Complaint Procedures) for further BPRC discussion
Board Equity Oversight Committee Meeting
The Board Equity Oversight Committee will approve minutes from a previous meeting and discuss a systemwide equity framework for 2021-24. The meeting is held virtually due to public health orders.
- Approval of September 21, 2021, BEOC minutes
- Discussion of 'A Systemwide Integrated Framework for Transformation 2021-24'
- Meeting held via Zoom webinar due to public health orders
The committee discussed the SWIFT goals, including professional learning, student-centered supports, and culture and climate. Members reviewed the distinction between identified and identifiable student groups and discussed accountability measures for equity practices. No policy changes were voted upon during the session.
- Approved September 21, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
Property Committee Meeting
The committee approved plans for fire alarm systems at multiple schools and authorized bids for pool repairs at Greene Middle School. The meeting was held virtually due to public health orders.
- Authorization to submit plans to DSA for projects at Escondido elementary, Greene and JLS middle schools
- Authorization to submit plans to DSA for fire alarm projects at Addison, Escondido, and Palo Verde elementary, and Greene middle schools
- Authorization to issue an Addendum to HED Architects for design services for fire alarm system replacements at Gunn and Paly high schools
- Approval of project scope, budget and authorization to bid repairs to the pool at Greene middle school
- Review of Elementary Bond Projects including Cubberley alternate site use
Regular Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board of Education will hold a regular meeting with a closed session covering employee evaluations, litigation, labor negotiations, and student matters. The open session includes reports from the superintendent and student board members, open forum, and a consent calendar for routine approval of certificated and classified personnel items, meeting minutes, purchase orders, and a resolution on instructional materials.
- Closed session items include two student liability claims (PAUSD-GC-2021-22.01 and .02), labor negotiations with PAEA and CSEA, and conference with legal counsel on existing and anticipated litigation.
- Approval of consent calendar: certificated personnel items, classified personnel items, minutes from September 14, 2021 meeting, and September purchase orders.
- Sufficiency of Instructional Materials Resolution No. 2021-22.03 for the 2021-22 school year.
- Public comment opportunities on closed session items and non-agenda topics.
The Board approved a consent calendar covering personnel items, purchase orders, and facility contracts. It also separately approved an annual Memorandum of Understanding with DreamCatchers. Several facility and calendar items were discussed but not decided during this meeting.
- Approved agenda order (5-0)
- Approved consent calendar including personnel items and September purchase orders (5-0)
- Approved Sufficiency of Instructional Materials Resolution No. 2021-22.03 (5-0)
- Approved contract addendum to LPA Architects for Escondido Elementary water system (5-0)
- Ratified purchase of 78-passenger bus from A-Z Bus, Sales, Inc. (5-0)
- Approved disposal of obsolete middle and high school textbooks (5-0)
- Approved COVID testing agreement with Covid Clinic, Inc. (5-0)
- Approved annual MOU between PAUSD and DreamCatchers (5-0)
Property Committee Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Property Committee will hold a virtual meeting on September 27, 2021, accessible via internet or telephone. No physical meeting place will be provided. The meeting agenda and notes are available for review.
- Meeting agenda and notes posted
- Virtual meeting format announced
- Contact information for accommodations provided
Board Equity Oversight Committee Meeting
The Board Equity Oversight Committee will meet virtually to approve minutes from June and August and discuss a draft of Phase III - Evidence of Progress. The meeting is conducted under California Governor Newsom's Executive Order N-29-20.
- Approval of June 1, 2021, BEOC minutes
- Approval of August 17, 2021, BEOC minutes
- Discussion of Phase III - Evidence of Progress draft
The committee unanimously approved the minutes from June 1, 2021, and August 17, 2021. Members discussed a framework for goals and action steps to be proposed to the Board for incorporation into The Promise. No other formal votes were recorded.
- Approved June 1, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved August 17, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
Board Policy Review Committee
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board Policy Review Committee will meet virtually to review updates to five existing district policies. The committee is expected to discuss suicide prevention, comprehensive health education, instructional materials, media relations, and complaint procedures.
- Review BP 5141.52 Suicide Prevention
- Review BP 6142.8 Comprehensive Health Education
- Review BP 6161.1 Selection and Evaluation of Instructional Materials
- Review BP 1112 Media Relations
- Review BP 1312.3 Universal Complaint Procedures
The Board Policy Review Committee approved the August 27, 2021 minutes and agreed to move seven board policies forward to the Board for final approval. One policy regarding media relations was tabled pending legal research on free speech implications.
- Approved August 27, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Forwarded BP 5141.52 (Suicide Prevention) to Board for approval
- Forwarded BP 6142.8 (Comprehensive Health Education) to Board for approval
- Forwarded BP 6161.1 (Selection and Evaluation of Instructional Materials) to Board for approval
- Tabled BP 1112 (Media Relations) pending General Counsel research on parent consent and free speech
- Forwarded BP 1312.3 (Universal Complaint Procedures) to Board for approval
- Forwarded BP 4119.11/4219.11/4319.11 (Sexual Harassment Employees) to Board for approval
- Forwarded BP 5145.3 (Nondiscrimination/Harassment) to Board for approval
City/School Committee Meeting
The agenda for the September 16, 2021 City/School Committee Meeting contains only administrative boilerplate and a link to an archived PDF. No specific decisions, proposals, or public hearings are listed in the provided text.
- No substantive items are described in the agenda text.
Regular Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board will meet virtually and in-person to approve routine personnel actions, August financial warrants and purchase orders, and ratify Strong Schools Bond change orders. The meeting also includes a closed session to discuss legal counsel and potential litigation.
- Approval of August warrants and purchase orders
- Ratification of Strong Schools Bond change orders
- Closed session on legal counsel and anticipated litigation
- Approval of August 24, 2021, Board meeting minutes
- Approval of certificated and classified personnel items
The Board unanimously approved a $120,000 claim for a special education student. A consent calendar was approved covering personnel items, budget updates, and multiple board policy updates. The Board also held a public hearing regarding the sufficiency of instructional materials.
- Approved $120,000 claim for Special Education student PAUSD-SE-2021-22.03 (unanimous)
- Approved agenda order (5-0)
- Approved consent calendar including personnel items and August warrants (5-0)
- Approved 2020-21 Unaudited Actuals and 2021-22 Budget Update (5-0)
- Rejected all bids for El Carmelo Elementary School Multi-Purpose Building Project (5-0)
- Authorized submission of plans to DSA for Gunn High School, Fletcher Middle School, and Palo Verde Elementary projects (5-0)
- Approved 2021-22 MOUs with MVLA Union High School District (5-0)
- Approved various Board Policies including Integrated Waste Management and Hate-motivated Behavior (5-0)
Property Committee Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Property Committee will meet virtually on September 13, 2021, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. No physical meeting place will be provided. The meeting is accessible via internet or telephone.
- Meeting held virtually due to notice
- Meeting accessible by internet or telephone
- No physical meeting place provided
- Contact [email protected] for accommodations
- Meeting runs 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Board Policy Review Committee
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board Policy Review Committee will meet virtually to review updates to several district policies, including waste management, developer fees, and student safety protocols. The committee is tasked with aligning existing policies with the California School Boards Association's updated sample policies.
- Review BP 3511.1 Integrated Waste Management
- Review BP 7211 Developer Fees
- Review BP 4112.42/4212.42/4312.42 Drug and Alcohol Testing
- Review BP 5141.52 Suicide Prevention
- Review BP 5145.12 Search and Seizure
The Board Policy Review Committee reviewed and agreed to move 11 policies forward to the Board for final approval. These policies cover a range of topics including student safety, employee security, and waste management. The committee also approved the meeting minutes from May 21, 2021.
- Approved May 21, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Moved BP 3511.1 (Integrated Waste Management) forward for Board approval
- Moved BP 7211 (Developer Fees) forward for Board approval
- Moved BP 4112.42/4212.42/4312.42 (Drug and Alcohol Testing for School Bus Drivers) forward for Board approval with title correction
- Moved BP 4141/4241 (Collective Bargaining Agreement) forward for Board approval
- Moved BP 4158/4258/4358 (Employee Security) forward for Board approval with added 'call 911' language
- Moved BP 5141.52 (Suicide Prevention) forward for Board approval with crisis intervention team language
- Moved BP 5145.12 (Search and Seizure) forward for Board approval
Fiscal Advisory Committee Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Fiscal Advisory Committee met on August 25, 2021. The agenda posted contains only a reference to the meeting file and does not list any specific items for discussion or decision.
Regular Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board is meeting virtually to approve routine personnel items and financial warrants. The session includes a closed-session discussion regarding special education claims and labor negotiations.
- Approval of certificated and classified personnel items
- Approval of June and July warrants and purchase orders
- Closed session discussion on two anticipated special education student claims (PAUSD-SE-2021-22.01 and PAUSD-SE-2021-22.02)
- Conference with labor negotiators from PAEA and CSEA
- Approval of minutes from June 22 and July 29, 2021 meetings
City/School Committee Meeting
The City/School Committee meeting scheduled for August 19, 2021, is archived. The agenda and meeting files are available for review.
- Archived City/School Committee meeting files
- Agenda and minutes available for Aug 19, 2021 meeting
Bond Citizens' Oversight Committee Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Bond Citizens' Oversight Committee will meet virtually to approve minutes from May 2021, elect a chair and vice chair, and review the status of Measure A and Z projects. The committee will also discuss preparations for the 2020-21 bond audits and annual report.
- Approval of May 12, 2021, meeting minutes
- Election of Chair and Vice Chair
- Review of Measure A and Z project status
- Discussion of 2020-21 bond audit preparation
- Discussion of 2020-21 COC Annual Report responsibilities
The committee approved the February 24, 2021 minutes and elected a new Chair and Vice-Chair. Members reviewed the schedule for the 2020-21 bond audits and the status of various Measure A and Z school projects.
- Approved minutes of February 24, 2021
- Elected Tom Siegel as Chair
- Elected Yumi Xiong as Vice-Chair
- Rejected all bids for El Carmelo project and scheduled rebid for September
Board Equity Oversight Committee Meeting
The Board Equity Oversight Committee is meeting to review and approve Phase II of the Equity Building Blocks and Actions plan. This phase outlines specific action steps across six domains intended to improve outcomes for students and staff of color, low-income students, special education, English learners, and LGBTQ+ groups.
- Review and approval of Phase II of Equity Building Blocks and Actions
- Approval of minutes from the June 1, 2021, BEOC Meeting
The Board Equity Oversight Committee discussed ways to tie systemic concerns to concrete action steps and link the 6 Foundations to The Promise. Staff will collaborate to identify metrics and action steps for a December presentation to the Board.
- Rescheduled next meeting to September 21, 2021
Property Committee Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Property Committee will meet virtually on August 17, 2021, to review construction projects and approve minutes from a previous meeting.
- Approval of June 15, 2021 Property Committee minutes
- Review of El Carmelo elementary school bid rejection
- Authorization to submit renovation plans for Gunn Elementary
- Status updates on Hoover and Cubberley I building projects
- Updates on ongoing construction and bond projects
Special Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board will consider waiving a two-meeting rule to approve new policies for student retention, grade changes, and graduation requirements under Assembly Bills 104 and 130. The Board will also vote on a contract with Stride Learning Solutions for a virtual independent study program.
- Waive two-meeting rule for AB 104, AB 130, and Stride Learning Solutions contract
- Adopt temporary Board Policy 5123 Retention and suspend existing policy
- Adopt temporary Board Policy 6146.1 High School Graduation Requirements
- Adopt Board Policy 6158 for Independent Study
- Vote on contract with Stride Learning Solutions for Virtual Independent Study Program
The Board approved a contract with Stride Learning Solutions for a Virtual Independent Study Program. It also adopted temporary policies regarding pupil retention and graduation requirements to align with Assembly Bill 104 and updated independent study policy BP 6158 per Assembly Bill 130.
- Waived two-meeting rule for items 2B, 2C, and 2D (3-0)
- Suspended existing and adopted temporary Board Policy 5123 Retention (3-0)
- Suspended existing and adopted temporary Board Policy 6146.1 High School Graduation Requirements (3-0)
- Adopted proposed BP 6158 for Independent Study (3-0)
- Approved contract with Stride Learning Solutions for Virtual Independent Study Program (3-0)
- Approved agenda order (3-0)
Regular Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board will meet virtually to approve routine personnel items, review minutes, and decide how to spend Education Protection Act funds on teacher salaries.
- Approval of certificated and classified personnel items
- Approval of summer school short-term personnel items
- Review of Resolution No. 2020-21.15 for EPA funds
- Approval of June 8, 2021, Regular Board Meeting minutes
- Closed session to discuss litigation and employee matters
The Board adopted the 2021-22 budget and approved the LCAP Annual Update and Learning Continuity Attendance Plan. Facility decisions included funding for design services at Hoover Elementary and air conditioning at Greene Middle School. The Board also approved a $172,250 settlement for a Special Education student.
- Adopted 2021-22 budget and approved Resolutions No. 2020-21.16, 2020-21.17, and 2020-21.18 (5-0)
- Approved $224,342 addendum to LPA Architects for Hoover Elementary schematic design (3-2)
- Approved $339,380 addendum to LPA Architects for air conditioning at Greene Middle School (5-0)
- Approved $172,250 settlement for anticipated litigation PAUSD-SE-20-21.03 (unanimous)
- Approved LCAP Annual Update, LCP, and 2021-24 LCAP (5-0)
- Authorized contract with fs3|Hodges for Bond Program Management Services for 2021-22 (5-0)
- Approved settlement for employee discipline/dismissal/release employee no. HR062221191 (unanimous)
- Approved consent calendar including personnel items and various facility authorizations (5-0)
City/School Committee Meeting
The City/School Committee held a regular meeting on June 17, 2021, to discuss matters of mutual interest between the city and the school district. The meeting was archived and no specific agenda items or decisions were detailed in the provided text.
- Meeting archived on June 17, 2021
- City/School Liaison Committee Regular Meeting
- Meeting held from 8:30-10:00 a.m.
Regular Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board will consider routine consent‑calendar items, including approval of certificated and classified personnel actions, minutes from the May 25 meeting, and purchase orders. It will also vote on authorizing staff to solicit bids for a campus safety upgrade that replaces phone, paging, clock, bell, and security‑camera systems. All items are presented for approval without further discussion.
- Approve certificated personnel items (consent calendar)
- Approve classified personnel items (consent calendar)
- Approve minutes for the May 25, 2021 regular board meeting
- Approve requisitions and purchase orders
- Authorize staff to solicit bids for the campus safety upgrade project
The Board approved a construction contract for the Briones Occupational Health wing roofing and an amendment to the Superintendent's employment agreement. It also approved the Every Student Reads Initiative progress indicators and a declaration of need for qualified educators.
- Approved $427,000 contract to Roofline Builders, Inc. for Briones OH wing roofing (5-0)
- Approved third amendment to the Superintendent's employment agreement (5-0)
- Approved three progress indicators for Every Student Reads Initiative (5-0)
- Approved Declaration of Need for Fully Qualified Educators for Certificated Employees (5-0)
- Approved consent calendar including textbook adoptions and various board policies (5-0)
- Waived two-meeting rule for Superintendent's contract amendment (5-0)
Board Equity Oversight Committee Meeting
The Board Equity Oversight Committee will review and discuss proposed components of the District Equity Agenda, along with an overview of the equity professional learning support plan and a process to develop formative benchmarks. The committee will also consider an updated equity-focused committee list and approve minutes from the May 4, 2021 meeting. The meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.
- Approval of minutes from May 4, 2021 BEOC meeting
- Review of updated equity-focused committee list
- Discussion of process to develop formative benchmarks
- Review and discussion of proposed components of the District Equity Agenda
- Overview of District Equity Professional Learning Support Plan
The committee approved the May 4, 2021, minutes and a proposed meeting calendar. Members discussed the District equity agenda, formative benchmarks, and the Equity Professional Learning Timeline, with several items tabled for future meetings.
- Approved May 4, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved proposed meeting calendar
Fiscal Advisory Committee Meeting
The agenda for this Fiscal Advisory Committee meeting contains only a reference to a PDF file. No specific items, proposals, or discussions are listed in the provided text. The meeting appears to be procedural or the details are not included in this agenda excerpt.
Regular Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board will approve minutes and personnel items, and discuss opening negotiations for a successor collective bargaining agreement with the California School Employees Association.
- Approval of May 11, 2021, Regular Board Meeting minutes
- Approval of certificated and classified personnel items
- Proposal to open negotiations with CSEA for successor CBA
- Public comment on closed session items
- Student Board Members reports
The Board approved tentative agreements and salary schedules for teachers, CSEA staff, and non-represented management groups for 2020-22. The Board also approved the CCEIS plan for resubmission to the California Department of Education and gave the Superintendent a satisfactory evaluation.
- Approved tentative agreement and 2020-22 salary schedules for Palo Alto Educators Association (5-0)
- Approved tentative agreement and 2020-22 salary schedules for California School Employees Association (5-0)
- Approved 2020-21 and 2021-22 salary schedules for PAMA and Confidential Supervisory groups (5-0)
- Approved salary schedule for contracted management positions effective July 1, 2020 (5-0)
- Increased Superintendent off-schedule payment from 4% to 5% (5-0)
- Approved CCEIS plan for resubmission to the California Department of Education (5-0)
- Approved Consent Calendar including Measure A and Measure Z bond tax rate requests (5-0)
- Waived the two-meeting rule for agenda items 5D, 5E, and 5F (5-0)
Board Policy Review Committee
The Board Policy Review Committee will review and discuss updates to several Palo Alto Unified School District policies, including open/closed campus, visual and performing arts education, student conduct, dress and grooming, safety, homework/makeup work, mental health, and awards for achievement. The committee will also consider approving minutes from the previous meeting.
- Review of BP 5112.5 Open/Closed Campus to align with CSBA sample policy
- Review of BP 6142.6 Visual and Performing Arts Education to reflect revised state content standards
- Review of BP 5131 Conduct to incorporate new law on student smartphone use (AB 272)
- Review of BP 5132 Dress and Grooming to add protections against discrimination based on gender identity and racial traits (SB 188)
- Review of new BP 5141.5 Mental Health policy addressing student emotional well-being and services
The Board Policy Review Committee reviewed and modified several district policies regarding student conduct, safety, and academics. Most reviewed policies were moved forward to the Board for approval, while the homework and makeup work policy was returned for further discussion.
- Approved April 23, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Moved BP 5112.5 (Open/Closed Campus) forward to Board
- Moved BP 6142.6 (Visual and Performing Arts Education) forward to Board
- Moved BP 5131 (Conduct) forward to Board
- Moved BP 5132 (Dress and Grooming) forward to Board
- Moved BP 5142 (Safety) forward to Board
- Tabled BP 6154 (Homework/Makeup Work) for further discussion
- Moved BP 5141.5 (Mental Health) forward to Board
City/School Committee Meeting
The agenda for the May 20, 2021 City/School Committee meeting contains no substantive items—only a link to the meeting's agenda PDF and minutes reference. No decisions, proposals, or public hearings are listed.
Property Committee
The Property Committee held a meeting on May 18, 2021, to review archived meeting files. The agenda and minutes for this session are available for public review.
- Review of archived meeting files for Property Committee
- Access to agenda and minutes for May 18, 2021
Bond Citizens' Oversight Committee Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Bond Citizens' Oversight Committee will meet virtually to review draft minutes, discuss pandemic impacts on bond programs, and receive updates on Measure A and Measure Z projects.
- Approval of February 2021 meeting minutes
- Update on district and bond programs during the pandemic
- Report on progress of Measure A and Measure Z bond projects
- Discussion on use of bond technology funds
- Presentation of current projects in design
The committee approved the February 24, 2021 meeting minutes. District staff provided updates on Measure A and Measure Z projects, including a proposed $8.4M plan to replace classroom Smartboards and projectors with flat panel displays. Several school renovation projects were presented in the design phase.
- Approved minutes of February 24, 2021
- Proposed $8.4M expenditure from bond funds for classroom audio-visual upgrades
- Confirmed Walter Hays project is on pause due to declining enrollment
- Scheduled next meeting for August 18, 2021
Regular Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board of Education will hold a virtual regular meeting on May 11, 2021. The agenda includes closed session items such as a superintendent performance evaluation, legal consultations, labor negotiations, and student discipline matters. Open session items are largely procedural: reports from the superintendent and student board members, public comment, and a consent calendar of personnel actions, meeting minutes, and purchase orders.
- Closed session includes superintendent evaluation, two anticipated special education litigation cases, and labor negotiations with PAEA and CSEA.
- Consent calendar includes approval of certificated and classified personnel items.
- Consent calendar includes approval of purchase orders from 04/02/21-04/29/21.
- Public comment sessions for closed session items and open forum with speaker time limits.
- Meeting held virtually per Governor's executive order due to COVID-19.
The Board approved a $1,398,200 contract for parking improvements at Gunn High School and authorized progress on bond projects at Hoover and El Carmelo Elementary Schools. Additionally, the Board approved two special education settlements totaling $204,315 and ratified another student settlement.
- Approved $1,398,200 contract to Redgwick Construction Co. for Gunn High School parking improvements (5-0)
- Authorized staff to move forward with Hoover Elementary School bond project (5-0)
- Authorized staff to move forward with El Carmelo Elementary School bond project (5-0)
- Directed staff to pause design of Walter Hays Elementary School project (5-0)
- Approved special education settlement PAUSD-SE-20-21.01 for $112,000 (Collins abstained)
- Approved special education settlement PAUSD-SE-20-21.02 for $92,315 (Collins abstained)
- Ratified settlement agreement for item PAUSD-GC-20-21.02 (unanimous)
- Rejected claim filed by Amy Day (action taken at April 20, 2021 meeting)
Board Equity Oversight Committee Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board Equity Oversight Committee will meet virtually to review its charter, equity-focused goals, and performance indicators. The meeting will also include an overview of the district's equity framework and a discussion on developing benchmarks.
- Review of committee charge and scope
- Review of equity-focused goals in PAUSD Promise
- Overview of the PAUSD Equity Framework
- Review of current subcommittees and stakeholder input
- Discussion on developing formative benchmarks
The Committee reviewed its charge, scope, and the PAUSD Equity Framework. Members discussed identifying measurable system areas and metrics to track progress. No formal votes were taken; the process to develop formative benchmarks was moved to the next meeting.
- Reviewed committee charge and scope
- Discussed goals for a list of actions and metrics to be presented to the Board in Fall 2021
- Discussed adding rectifying disproportionality to PAUSD Equity Goals
- Moved discussion on process to develop formative benchmarks to the next meeting
Board Policy Review Committee
The Board Policy Review Committee will meet virtually to discuss and recommend updates to six district policies, including supplemental instruction, work permits, consultants, student activity funds, facilities planning, and transfer of funds. The committee will also approve minutes from the March 2021 meeting. No final board action is taken at this committee.
- Review BP 5113.2 Work Permits: prohibits consideration of grades during pandemic-related campus closures
- Review BP 3600 Consultants: updates independent contractor classification following new state law
- Review BP 3452 Student Activity Funds: clarifies fundraising and accounting requirements under GASB Statement 84
- Review BP 7210 Facilities Planning: adds state funding from Leroy F. Greene Act and audit requirements
- Review BP 3110 Transfer of Funds: authorizes temporary transfers of up to 85% of fund balances during state deferrals
The Board Policy Review Committee approved the minutes from March 19, 2021. The committee agreed to move six specific board policies forward to the Board for final approval. Staff were instructed to prioritize policies reflecting statutory changes for the next meeting.
- Approved March 19, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Moved BP 6179 (Supplemental Instruction) forward for Board approval
- Moved BP 5113.2 (Work Permits) forward for Board approval
- Moved BP 3600 (Consultants) forward for Board approval
- Moved BP 3452 (Student Activity Funds) forward for Board approval
- Moved BP 7210 (Facilities Planning) forward for Board approval
- Moved BP 3110 (Transfer of Funds) forward for Board approval
Regular Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board will hold a virtual meeting to approve routine personnel actions and minutes from previous meetings. The session includes closed session discussions and public comment opportunities.
- Approval of certificated personnel items
- Approval of classified personnel items
- Approval of March 9, 2021, Regular Board Meeting minutes
- Approval of March 18, 2021, Special Board Meeting minutes
- Approval of March 23, 2021, Regular Board Meeting minutes
The Board authorized the purchase of 2,000 elementary school desks and accepted a grant for two electric school buses. Several board policies and the 2021-22 budget assumptions document were approved via the consent calendar.
- Approved purchase of 2,000 elementary school desks from Campbell Keller for $554,989 (5-0)
- Approved acceptance of $800,000 Carl Moyer Grant Program grant for two 78-passenger electric school buses and infrastructure (5-0)
- Approved 2021-22 Budget Assumptions Document (5-0)
- Approved Board Policies regarding graduation, PE, school plans, preschool, TK, suicide prevention, and employee activities (5-0)
- Voted for Andres Quintero and Van Le for the CSBA Delegate Assembly election (5-0)
- Approved agenda order (5-0)
City/School Committee Meeting
The City/School Committee meeting held on April 15, 2021, is archived with only a draft of the minutes available. No specific agenda items, decisions, or discussions are detailed in the provided record.
Property Committee
The Palo Alto Unified School District Property Committee meeting on April 6, 2021 contains only archived agenda and minutes files and does not list any specific items for discussion or decision.
City/School Committee Meeting
The City/School Committee meeting scheduled for March 25, 2021, has been archived. The agenda and draft minutes are available for review.
- Archived meeting files available
- Draft minutes posted (03-25-21-draft-cslc-minutes.pdf)
- Agenda document posted (03-25-2021 City School Agenda.pdf)
Regular Board Meeting
The Board will conduct a regular meeting held virtually via Zoom. The agenda includes closed session discussions regarding personnel and legal matters, as well as the approval of various consent calendar items.
- Closed Session: Public employee performance and employment evaluations
- Closed Session: Conference with legal counsel regarding litigation
- Approval of certificated and classified personnel items
- Approval of February warrants and purchase orders
- Approval of March 9, 2021, meeting minutes
The Board took action in closed session to notify temporary certificated employees they will be released from contracts at the end of the 2020-21 school year. The Board also approved a consent calendar including personnel items and purchase orders. Minutes from the March 9 regular meeting were tabled.
- Released temporary certificated employees from contracts effective end of 2020-21 school year
- Approved agenda order (5-0)
- Approved consent calendar including personnel items, February warrants, and purchase orders (5-0)
- Approved Student Nutrition Services Consultant Contract 2021-22 (5-0)
- Approved Annual Authorization to Purchase School Site Technical Equipment (5-0)
- Approved Bond Change Orders (5-0)
- Tabled March 9, 2021, Regular Board Meeting minutes (4-1)
Board Policy Review Committee
The Board Policy Review Committee will meet virtually to discuss and review eight proposed updates to district policies. They will first approve minutes from the February 19, 2021, meeting. Main discussions include policy changes on graduation ceremonies (allowing tribal regalia, removing student-led prayer), physical education (equal access and credential requirements), school site councils, preschool, transitional kindergarten, suicide prevention (new K-6 mandate and website posting), bargaining units, and political activities of employees.
- Approval of minutes from February 19, 2021, BPRC meeting
- Discussion of BP 5127 Graduation Ceremonies and Activities: permits tribal regalia, removes student-led prayer
- Discussion of BP 6142.7 Physical Education and Activity: equal access regardless of gender or disability, credential requirements
- Discussion of BP 5141.52 Suicide Prevention: new K-6 policy, website posting, five-year review for grades 7-12
- Discussion of BP 4140 Bargaining Units: updates on union buttons, employee contact information, communications
The Board Policy Review Committee reviewed and modified several district policies to align with CSBA standards. The committee agreed to move eight specific board policies forward to the Board for final approval.
- Approved February 19, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Moved BP 5127 (Graduation Ceremonies and Activities) forward for Board approval
- Moved BP 6142.7 (Physical Education and Activity) forward for Board approval after rejecting optional Program Evaluation language
- Moved BP 0420 (School Plans/Site Councils) forward for Board approval with specific language strikes
- Moved BP 5148.3 (Preschool/Early Childhood Education) forward for Board approval
- Moved BP 5170.1 (Transitional Kindergarten) forward for Board approval with modified instructional minutes language
- Moved BP 5141.52 (Suicide Prevention) forward for Board approval with revised postvention and prevention language
- Moved BP 4140 (Bargaining Units) and BP 4119.25/4219.25/4319.25 (Political Activities of Employees) forward for Board approval
Special Board Meeting - Budget Study Session
The Board is holding a study session to review the 2021-22 budget assumptions and identify priorities for new or enhanced programs. The session includes a review of funding for In-Person Instruction and Expanded Learning Opportunity Grants. The final proposed budget is scheduled for a public hearing in early June 2021.
- Discussion of 2021-22 Budget Assumptions for a district budget of approximately $284 million
- Review of spending plans for In-Person Instruction and Expanded Learning Opportunity Grants
- Identification of Board priorities for new or enhanced programs
- Evaluation of current district investments to determine if resources should be reprioritized
The Board conducted a study session to discuss 2021-22 budget assumptions and review planning options. No substantive decisions were made regarding the budget. The Board took no reportable action during the closed session.
- Approved agenda order (5-0)
Property Committee
The agenda for the March 16, 2021, Property Committee meeting is available as an archived file. The document includes the agenda and minutes for the session.
- Agenda and minutes posted for archived meeting
- Property Committee Agenda_031621.pdf attached
- Property Committe Minutes_031621.pdf attached
Special Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board held a special meeting virtually under Governor's Executive Order N-29-20. The agenda included a recess to Closed Session to discuss personnel, litigation, and labor negotiations, followed by a reconvening to report on those actions.
- Closed Session to discuss personnel, litigation, and labor negotiations
- Public comment on Closed Session items available before the session
- Meeting held via Zoom webinar platform
- District Office at 25 Churchill Avenue
- Meeting accessible via internet or telephone
Regular Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board of Education will hold a regular meeting virtually due to Governor's Executive Order N-29-20. The meeting includes closed session discussions on personnel, litigation, and labor negotiations, followed by open session business.
- Closed session: Public employee performance and employment evaluations
- Closed session: Legal counsel conferences on existing and anticipated litigation
- Closed session: Liability claims and student discipline matters
- Closed session: Conference with labor negotiators (PAEA and CSEA)
- Consent calendar: Approval of certificated and classified personnel items
Bond Citizens' Oversight Committee Meeting
The Bond Citizens' Oversight Committee will discuss updates on Measure A and Z bond projects, review draft minutes from December, and hear about a pause on certain elementary projects. The committee will also receive an update on the Board Bond Advisory Committee's report and take a virtual tour of the Gunn Titan Gym air-conditioning project.
- Approval of minutes from December 2, 2020 meeting
- Staff report on progress and timelines of Measure A and Measure Z bond projects
- Update on Board Bond Advisory Committee (BBAC) recommendations
- Details on pause for certain elementary projects
- Virtual tour of Gunn Titan Gym air-conditioning project
The committee reviewed the progress of Measure A and Measure Z bond projects, noting completions at PALY Science and Gunn Titan Gym. Several elementary school projects remain paused pending a Board review of enrollment data on April 20.
- Approved minutes of December 2, 2020 (Motion carried)
Regular Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board will hold a virtual regular meeting on February 23, 2021, with a closed session for personnel, litigation, and labor negotiations, followed by an open session. The agenda includes reports from the superintendent and student representatives, open forum, and approval of consent calendar items: certificated and classified personnel items, meeting minutes, January warrants and purchase orders, and Strong Schools Bond change orders. No major policy decisions or public hearings are scheduled.
- Approval of certificated personnel items (Action/Consent)
- Approval of classified personnel items (Action/Consent)
- Approval of January warrants and purchase orders (Action/Consent)
- Approval of Strong Schools Bond change orders (Action/Consent)
- Closed session topics: public employee performance evaluation, employment, litigation (O.A. vs PAUSD), labor negotiations with PAEA and CSEA
The Board approved supplementary and voluntary retirement plans for various employee groups. It also established a new committee to monitor educational equity and approved a consent calendar including several facility projects. Multiple items regarding budget, COVID-19 testing, and school designs were discussed but not decided.
- Approved Supplementary Retirement Plan for Certificated Non-Management and Management (5-0)
- Approved one-time voluntary retirement incentive plan for Classified Non-Management employees (5-0)
- Established Board of Education committee to monitor educational equity and benchmarks (5-0)
- Approved consent calendar including roofing bids for Briones Elementary and JLS Middle School (5-0)
- Approved Gunn Parking Improvements Project bid authorization (5-0)
- Approved contract with law firm Wendel Rosen LLP (5-0)
- Tabled Student Well-Being staff report
- Waived two-meeting rule for Classified Non-Management retirement plan (5-0)
Board Policy Review Committee
The Board Policy Review Committee is meeting virtually to discuss and recommend updates to nine district policies based on California School Boards Association sample updates. Items include policies on architectural services, ceremonies, local control and accountability plans, intervention for underperforming schools, employee notifications, compensation, transfers, and world language instruction. The committee will also approve minutes from a prior meeting.
- Review of BP 0460 – Local Control and Accountability Plan
- Review of BP 0520 – Intervention for Underperforming Schools
- Review of BP 4151/4251/4351 – Employee Compensation
- Review of BP 7140 – Architectural and Engineering Services
- Review of BP 6142.2 – World Language Instruction
The Board Policy Review Committee reviewed and agreed to move several policies to the Board for approval, including updates to world language instruction and employee compensation. The committee also agreed to move one policy forward for deletion.
- Approved January 29, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Moved BP 7140 (Architectural and Engineering Services) forward for approval
- Moved BP 6142.2 (World Language Instruction) forward for approval
- Moved BP 5118 (Open Enrollment Act Transfers) forward for approval to delete
- Moved BP 6115 (Ceremonies and Observances) forward for approval after removing optional language
- Moved BP 0460 (Local Control and Accountability Plan) forward for approval
- Moved BP 0520 (Intervention for Underperforming Schools) forward for approval after typo correction
- Moved BP 4112.9/4212.9/4312.9 (Employee Notifications) forward for approval after typo correction
City/School Committee Meeting
The agenda for the City/School Committee meeting on February 18, 2021, is available for review. The document is a standard archival file listing the meeting details and attachments.
- Meeting archived on Feb 18, 2021
- Agenda PDF attached (101 KB)
- Final minutes PDF attached (165 KB)
Fiscal Advisory Committee Meeting
This meeting agenda contains no listed items beyond a reference to a PDF file. The committee is likely reviewing or approving prior minutes or routine fiscal matters, but no specific decisions or discussions are documented.
Property Committee
The agenda for the February 16, 2021 Property Committee meeting of Palo Alto Unified School District provides only file attachments for the agenda and minutes. No specific discussion items, decisions, or proposals are listed in the provided text. This appears to be a procedural agenda without substantive content.
- Agenda file: Property Committee Agenda_021621.pdf
- Minutes file: Property Committe Minutes_021621.pdf
Regular Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board will meet virtually to review the 2019-20 annual independent audit and the financial and performance audits for the Strong Schools Bonds (Measure A and Measure Z). The meeting will also include closed session discussions on litigation and employee matters.
- Review 2019-20 Annual Independent Audit Report
- Review Annual Strong Schools Bonds Financial and Performance Audits for 2019-20
- Closed session discussion on PG&E eminent domain action for Cubberley
- Closed session discussion on student discipline matters
- Closed session discussion on employee discipline/dismissal
The Board approved a construction contract for piping replacement at Palo Alto High School and authorized several bond-related recommendations. They also approved the schematic design for the J.L. Stanford Middle School library and administration building. In closed session, the Board voted to reject a specific liability claim.
- Rejected liability claim PAUSD-BSD-20-21.04 (4-1)
- Approved $3,812,000 contract to Cratus Engineering for Palo Alto High School piping replacement (5-0)
- Approved BBAC recommendations for air-conditioning funding, Measure Z specifications, Measure Z Master Plan, and BBAC membership expansion (5-0)
- Approved schematic design for J.L. Stanford Middle School library and administration building (5-0)
- Approved Cubberley I-Building Modernization Project scope and budget (5-0)
- Approved purchase orders excluding the P.O. of Autism Partnership (5-0)
- Approved 17 Board Policy updates via consent calendar (5-0)
Special Board Meeting - Board Study Session
This is a special board study session where trustees discuss goals and expectations for several topics, including planning for five-day-a-week in-person instruction for fall 2021. No formal votes are taken; the session is for discussion and direction-setting only.
- Discussion of Fall Opening of Schools with planning for in-person instruction five days per week
- Discussion on recruitment, hiring, and retention of diverse and inclusive staff
- Brainstorming on equity definition and desired outcomes, including possible Board committee creation
- Discussion of student well-being amid prolonged COVID-19 closure
The Board approved the meeting agenda order. Members held discussions regarding fall in-person instruction plans, staff diversity, equity definitions, governance, and student well-being. A motion to create a Board committee for education equity was tabled to a future meeting.
- Approved agenda order (5-0)
- Tabled motion to create a Board committee to address disproportionality and education equity
Board Policy Review Committee
The Board Policy Review Committee is reviewing several proposed updates to district policies. These include new guidelines for remote work, disciplinary actions, bloodborne pathogen exposure, and the sale or lease of district property.
- Review of BP 4113.5/4213.5/4313.5 regarding remote work arrangements
- Review of BP 4218 regarding dismissal, suspension, and disciplinary action
- Review of BP 4119.42/4219.42/4319.42 regarding bloodborne pathogen exposure control
- Review of BP 4119.43/4219.43/4319.43 regarding universal precautions
- Review of BP 4113 regarding teacher and employee assignments
The Board Policy Review Committee reviewed and agreed to move 15 different board policies forward to the Board for approval. These policies cover a range of topics including remote work, student attendance, and risk management. The committee also unanimously approved the minutes from December 18, 2020.
- Approved December 18, 2020 minutes (unanimous)
- Moved BP 4113.5 (Working Remotely) forward to Board with specific language edits
- Moved BP 4218 (Dismissal/Suspension/Disciplinary Action) forward to Board
- Moved BP 4119.42/4219.42/4319.42 (Bloodborne Pathogens) forward to Board with IIPP link
- Moved BP 4119.43/4219.43/4319.43 (Universal Precautions) forward to Board
- Moved BP 4113 (Assignment), BP 3530 (Risk Management/Insurance), and BP 3280 (Real Property) forward to Board
- Moved BP 5117, BP 5116.2, BP 5116.1, and BP 5116 (Attendance and Boundaries) forward to Board
- Moved BP 6145.6, BP 5123, and BP 5113.1 (Exchange, Promotion, and Truancy) forward to Board
Regular Board Meeting
The Palo Alto Unified School District Board will hold a virtual regular meeting. The main action items are accepting the 2019-20 Annual Independent Audit Report and the Annual Strong Schools Bonds Financial and Performance Audits for 2019-20 (Measure A and Measure Z). The board will also convene in closed session to discuss employee evaluations, labor negotiations with PAEA and CSEA, existing and anticipated litigation including a PG&E eminent domain case at Cubberley, and other confidential matters.
- Accept 2019-20 Annual Independent Audit Report (Eide Bailly, LLP)
- Accept Annual Strong Schools Bonds Financial and Performance Audits for 2019-20 (Measures A and Z)
- Closed session: conference with legal counsel on PG&E potential eminent domain action for a portion of Cubberley
- Closed session: conference with labor negotiators for Palo Alto Educators Association and California School Employees Association
- Reports from Superintendent Dr. Donald B. Austin and student board members
The Board unanimously appointed Wendel Rosen to represent the District regarding a potential eminent domain action by PG&E. The Board also approved a consent calendar covering personnel, board policies, and facility contracts, and directed staff to provide updates on elementary school projects by April 20, 2021.
- Appointed Wendel Rosen for legal services regarding PG&E eminent domain action (Unanimous)
- Approved consent calendar including personnel items, board policies, and facility contracts (5-0)
- Directed staff to provide recommendations on elementary school projects by April 20, 2021 (5-0)
- Tabled 2019-20 Annual Independent Audit Report
- Tabled Annual Strong Schools Bonds Financial and Performance Audits for 2019-20
- Tabled motion to create a committee to address significant disproportionality to February 2, 2021 (5-0)
Property Committee
The provided agenda text contains only file attachments and no specific discussion items or decisions. The record is procedural boilerplate.