Santa Ana Unified School District public meetings in 2022
30 substantive meetings from 2022, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Annual Organizational Meeting & Regular Board Meeting
This annual organizational and regular meeting includes closed session for labor negotiations, personnel matters, litigation, and property negotiations. In open session, the board will certify election results, administer the oath to new members Katelyn Brazer Aceves and Hector Bustos, elect officers for the coming year, and approve the schedule of regular meetings and committee assignments for 2023.
- Certification of election results and administration of oath of office to newly elected board members Katelyn Brazer Aceves and Hector Bustos.
- Election of board president, vice president, and clerk from among members.
- Approval of a schedule of regular board meetings for 2023 (second and fourth Tuesdays at 6 p.m. at 1601 E. Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana).
- Designation of board representatives to serve on committees and commissions, including a representative to the County Committee on School District Organization.
- Closed session discussion of real property disposition or acquisition involving 55 listed assessor parcel numbers.
The Board held its annual organizational meeting to elect officers and set the 2023 meeting schedule. Additionally, the Board appointed three staff coordinators and approved a settlement with the IRS regarding 2012 bond fund disbursements.
- Elected Trustee Torres as President (5-0)
- Elected Trustee Alvarez as Vice President (5-0)
- Elected Trustee Bustos as Clerk (5-0)
- Appointed Vidalia Resendes as Coordinator of Special Projects - CTE (5-0)
- Appointed Estefania Rico as Coordinator of Expanded Learning (5-0)
- Appointed Lupe Dominguez Breceda as Risk Management Coordinator (5-0)
- Approved IRS settlement for 2012 Qualified Zone Academy Bonds fund disbursement (5-0)
- Approved 2023 regular and special meeting dates, times, and locations (5-0)
Regular Board Meeting
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board will hold a closed session to discuss labor negotiations, employee discipline actions, ongoing litigation, and real‑property negotiations. In the open session, the Board will recognize the November Certificated and Classified Employees of the Month and consider approval of the October 25 meeting minutes. The primary action item is the consent‑calendar approval of extended field trips for five schools, costing $87,260.
- Closed session: conference with labor negotiator for SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA bargaining units
- Closed session: discipline/dismissal/reassignment of an assistant principal, a special‑education coordinator, and an employee benefits manager
- Closed session: conference with legal counsel on existing litigation (Case Nos. 30-2019-01068167-CU-WM-CSC; 30-2021-01214572-CU-WT-CJC; 30-2021-01232484; SUSK-010068; 30-2021-01208771-CU-OE-CJC)
- Closed session: real‑property negotiations involving multiple Assessor’s Parcel Numbers district‑wide
- Consent calendar: approval of extended field trips for Fremont, Martin, Saddleback, Santa Ana, and Segerstrom schools – total cost $87,260
The Board appointed a new Assistant Principal, Special Education Coordinator, and Employee Benefits Manager. It also approved four final settlement agreements and a series of district contracts and personnel changes.
- Appointed Lisa Ramos as Assistant Principal, Edison Elementary School (4-0)
- Appointed Ryan Murray as Coordinator of Special Education/Adult Transition Programs (4-0)
- Appointed Carol Magallanes as Employee Benefits Manager (4-0)
- Approved final settlement agreement case 30-2021-01214572-CU-WT-CJC (5-0)
- Approved final settlement agreement case 30-2021-01232484 (5-0)
- Approved workers compensation settlement claim SUSK-010068 (5-0)
- Approved final settlement agreement case 30-2021-01208771-CU-OE-CJC (5-0)
- Approved 2022-23 agreements/contracts listing (4-1)
Regular Board Meeting
The Board will consider consent calendar items including approval of October 11 meeting minutes, a $2,500 renewal of the Superintendent's membership in the National Center on Education and the Economy Superintendent's Alliance, and the Williams Settlement Legislation Annual Report for 2021-22. The meeting also includes recognitions for the Certificated and Classified Employees of the Month. Prior to open session, the Board will recess to closed session for labor negotiations, legal counsel consultation on existing and anticipated litigation, and real property negotiations.
- Approval of Superintendent's renewal membership with NCEE Alliance ($2,500 from General Fund)
- Approval of Regular Board Meeting Minutes from October 11, 2022
- Williams Settlement Legislation Annual Report for 2021-22 (presented for information)
- Recognition of Anita Sweeney as Certificated Employee of the Month and Monica Pacis as Classified Employee of the Month ($50 gift card each)
- Closed session items: labor negotiations, employee discipline/dismissal, existing and anticipated litigation, real property negotiations on 60+ parcels
The Board appointed a new Coordinator of Expanded Learning and accepted the Santa Ana Educators’ Association initial bargaining proposal for 2022-2025. Several administrative items, including field trips and disability service contracts, were approved. The Board also ratified various community partnership agreements and software licenses.
- Appointed Nancy Rios as Coordinator of Expanded Learning (4-0)
- Accepted Santa Ana Educators’ Association Initial Bargaining Proposal for 2022-2025 (5-0)
- Approved extended field trips per Board Policy 6153 (5-0)
- Ratified master contracts for students with disabilities for 2022-23 (5-0)
- Approved payment and reimbursement for students with disabilities for 2022-23 (4-0)
- Approved listing of agreements/contracts for 2022-23 (5-0)
- Approved listing of no-cost community partnership agreements for 2022-23 (5-0)
- Approved consent calendar items including software licenses and personnel calendar (5-0)
Regular Board Meeting
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board will meet in closed session to discuss student expulsions, labor negotiations with multiple bargaining units, employee discipline, existing litigation, and real property acquisition or disposition involving dozens of parcels. In open session, the board will accept gifts totaling $4,881 and review the first-quarter Williams Settlement complaint report.
- Approval of student expulsions under Education Code Sections 48900 and related
- Closed-session conference with labor negotiator for SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA units
- Closed-session discussion of public employee discipline/dismissal for three director positions
- Closed-session real property negotiations covering 56+ assessor parcels district-wide
- Acceptance of gifts totaling $4,881 (year-to-date $507,675.19) per Board Policy 3290
The Board appointed three new administrative directors and approved the purchase of body-worn video equipment from Axon Enterprise, Inc. It also ratified no-cost community partnership agreements and a personnel calendar. One student expulsion term was amended to the remainder of the current year plus the following semester.
- Appointed Lisa Solomon-Gonzales as Director of Family and Community Engagement (5-0)
- Appointed Diane Nicholas as Assistant Director of Special Education (5-0)
- Appointed Trang Tran as Assistant Controller (5-0)
- Approved purchase of public safety video and body-worn equipment from Axon Enterprise, Inc. (5-0)
- Approved MOU with California School Employees Association, Chapter 41 regarding Emergency Coverage (5-0)
- Ratified No-Cost Community Partnership Agreements for 2022-23 (4-0-1)
- Approved Personnel Calendar for hiring, promotions, and transfers (4-0-1)
- Amended expulsion for student 410766 to current year plus following semester (4-0-1)
Regular Board Meeting
The board will hold a closed session to discuss labor negotiations, employee discipline, litigation, and real property negotiations involving dozens of parcels. In open session, the board will recognize employees of the month and consider consent items including acceptance of $441,791.25 in gifts and approval of extended field trips costing $32,810.00.
- Acceptance of gifts totaling $441,791.25 in accordance with Board Policy 3290
- Approval of extended field trips costing $32,810.00
- Recognition of Certificated Employee of the Month Dawn Aguila and Classified Employee of the Month Luis Zamudio ($50 gift cards each)
- Approval of board meeting minutes from September 13 and September 20, 2022
- Closed session on labor negotiations (SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA), discipline/dismissal of an assistant principal, litigation (two cases), and real property disposition/acquisition for 58+ parcels
The Board approved a settlement agreement with four charter schools regarding equitable contributions for special education services. They also appointed a new Assistant Principal for Taft Elementary School and approved several new job descriptions and facility contracts.
- Appointed Julie Choi as Assistant Principal, Taft Elementary School (4-0-1)
- Approved settlement with NOVA Academy, El Sol Science and Arts Academy, Edward B. Cole Academy, and Orange County Educational Arts Academy (4-0)
- Approved 2022-2023 grant award applications (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution No. 22/23-3481 regarding sufficiency of pupil textbooks and instructional materials (5-0)
- Approved new job descriptions for Safety Manager, Emergency Services Manager, and Risk Management Coordinator (5-0)
- Approved Deductive Change Order No. 1 and accepted contract completion for Roosevelt-Walker Academy interior upgrades (5-0)
- Approved First Amendment to License Agreement with BH EQUITIES 70 LLC for Central Kitchen parking (5-0)
- Approved consent calendar items including personnel changes and purchase orders (5-0)
Special Board Meeting - Closed Session Only
This is a special board meeting closed to the public. The only agenda item is a conference with legal counsel regarding two existing lawsuits (case numbers 30-2019-01068167-CU-WM-CSC and 30-2019-01069196-CU-MC-CJC). No fiscal impact or budgeted items are associated with this discussion.
- Conference with legal counsel under Government Code 54956.9 for existing litigation (Case Nos. 30-2019-01068167-CU-WM-CSC and 30-2019-01069196-CU-MC-CJC)
The Board of Education met in a special closed session to discuss existing litigation. No public actions or decisions were recorded in the minutes.
Regular Board Meeting
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education will meet in closed session to discuss labor negotiations, personnel matters, litigation, and real property negotiations. In open session, the board will consider a consent calendar that includes approving minutes, amending a membership with Price Philanthropies Foundation (increased to $2,400), accepting gifts totaling $5,050, and approving extended field trips.
- Authorization to amend renewal of membership with Price Philanthropies Foundation for 2022-23, increasing amount to $2,400
- Acceptance of gifts in accordance with Board Policy 3290, total donated $5,050
- Approval of extended field trips per Board Policy 6153
- Closed session: Conference with labor negotiator for SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA bargaining units
- Closed session: Conference with real property negotiators for 55 district-wide assessor parcel numbers
The Board approved the District's unaudited actuals for the 2021-22 school year and a Master Collaboration Agreement with Rancho Santiago Community College District. Several administrative appointments were made, and contracts for waste disposal and specialty paper were awarded. The Board also approved two Memorandums of Understanding with the Santa Ana Educators’ Association.
- Appointed Michael Esparza as Director of Purchasing and Stores (4-0-1)
- Appointed Lorraine Sanchez as Assistant Principal, Century High School (5-0)
- Appointed Eddie Garcia as Assistant Director of Expanded Learning (5-0)
- Appointed Cheri Daniels as Assistant Principal, MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School (5-0)
- Appointed Shannon Gerlach as Assistant Principal, Muir Fundamental Elementary School (5-0)
- Appointed Fariba Agahi as Assistant Principal, Wilson Elementary School (5-0)
- Appointed Gloria Lira as Manager of Budget (5-0)
- Approved District’s Unaudited Actuals for 2021-22 School Year (4-0-1)
Special Board Meeting/School Budget Town Hall
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education is holding a special meeting and budget town hall to present the district's LCAP and budget overview. Staff will explain how funding supports board priorities and student academic needs, and highlight revenue sources. The item is for information and discussion only, with no fiscal impact. Public comments will be accepted in person and by phone.
- Presentation on Santa Ana Unified School District's LCAP and Budget Overview
- Item is for information and discussion; no fiscal impact
- Public comments accepted in person, by phone, or by email
The Board of Education conducted a budget town hall featuring a presentation on the Local Control Accountability Plan. No formal votes or policy decisions were made; the meeting served as a forum for public comment and information gathering.
Special Board Meeting/School Budget Town Hall
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education is holding a special board meeting and school budget town hall. The only item on the agenda is a presentation on the district's LCAP and budget overview, for information and discussion only. Staff will highlight revenue sources and how funding supports board priorities.
- Presentation on Santa Ana Unified School District's LCAP and Budget Overview (discussion, no vote)
Regular Board Meeting
This regular board meeting includes a closed session to discuss labor negotiations with multiple bargaining units, existing litigation, and real property negotiations. The open session will feature a recognition of Santa Ana Elks #794 for donating 800 backpacks and approval of a consent calendar. The consent calendar includes approval of minutes, superintendent's membership in Orange County District Superintendents' Organization ($300), and a Williams settlement report. The agenda is largely procedural with substantive discussion occurring in closed session.
- Closed session: labor negotiations with SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA bargaining units
- Closed session: existing litigation (case nos. 30-2019-01068167 and 30-2019-01069196)
- Closed session: real property negotiations for 56 assessor parcel numbers
- Recognition of Santa Ana Elks #794 for donating 800 backpacks to Heninger Elementary
- Approval of superintendent's membership with Orange County District Superintendents' Organization ($300)
The Board appointed six principals, assistant principals, and a coordinator. It approved updated CSEA salary schedules and several new job descriptions. The Board also authorized a contract for commercial air filters and approved a personnel calendar.
- Appointed John Bennett as Principal, Villa Fundamental Intermediate School (5-0)
- Appointed Joni Howard as Principal, Greenville Fundamental Elementary School (5-0)
- Appointed Annette Cordero-Jackson as Assistant Principal, Advanced Learning Academy (5-0)
- Appointed Suzanne Howell as Assistant Principal, Valley High School (5-0)
- Appointed Ciria Perez-Garcia as Assistant Principal, Lathrop Intermediate School (5-0)
- Appointed Moises Plascencia as Coordinator, Farm to School Programs (5-0)
- Approved updated Classified School Employees Association, Chapter 41 (CSEA) Salary Schedules (5-0)
- Authorized contract with PacWest Air Filter, LLC for Commercial Air Filters (5-0)
Special Board Meeting - Closed Session Only
This is a special closed-session meeting of the Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education. The board will discuss the performance evaluation of the Superintendent. No public action is scheduled; the entire meeting is held behind closed doors.
- Closed session discussion under Government Code Section 54957: Public Employee Discipline/Dismissal/Release/Reassignment/Appointments – Performance Evaluation of Superintendent Jerry Almendarez
The Special Board meeting consisted only of a closed session to consider personnel matters. No substantive decisions were recorded in the public minutes.
Regular Board Meeting
The board will consider consent calendar items including acceptance of $8,800 in gifts and ratification of a list of agreements/contracts for the 2022-23 school year. A separate vote is scheduled on the Maxim Healthcare Services contract. The board also enters closed session to discuss labor negotiations, personnel actions, existing litigation, and real property negotiations involving dozens of district parcels.
- Ratification of a listing of agreements/contracts for 2022-23; separate vote on Maxim Healthcare Services contract
- Acceptance of gifts totaling $8,800 under Board Policy 3290
- Closed session: conference with labor negotiator for SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA bargaining units
- Closed session: public employee discipline/dismissal/release/reassignment/appointments for multiple positions
- Closed session: conference with real property negotiators for district-wide disposition/acquisition (55 APNs listed)
The Board approved a $6 million agreement with Maxim Healthcare Services and ratified various district contracts, grant applications, and the personnel calendar. Several administrative appointments were made during closed session, including a new Manager of Budget. The Superintendent also announced a budget town hall for August 29.
- Appointed Patricia Shepherd as Assistant Principal, Mitchell Child Development Center (4-0)
- Appointed Yasheng (Ben) He as Assistant Director of Technology Innovation Services (4-0)
- Appointed Renato Espiritu as Manager of Budget (4-0)
- Appointed Rae Rice as Assistant Director, Special Education (3-2)
- Approved $6,000,000 agreement with Maxim Healthcare Services (3-2)
- Approved 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 grant award applications (5-0)
- Ratified 2022-23 legal services contract with Gray Miller Persh, LLP (5-0)
- Approved Personnel Calendar for hiring, promotions, and transfers (5-0)
Regular Board Meeting
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education will convene in closed session to discuss labor negotiations with multiple bargaining units, employee discipline, existing and anticipated litigation, and real property negotiations involving dozens of parcels district-wide. In open session, the board will consider a consent calendar that includes approval of meeting minutes, acceptance of $36,000 in gifts, and approval of $52,250 in extended field trips for students from several schools.
- Closed session conference with labor negotiator for SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA bargaining units
- Closed session real property negotiations on 54 assessor parcels across the district
- Closed session existing litigation (two cases) and anticipated litigation (one potential case)
- Acceptance of $36,000 in gifts under Board Policy 3290
- Approval of $52,250 for 7 extended field trips involving 203 students from ALA, Middle College, Saddleback, Santa Ana, and Segerstrom
The Board approved easements for electric vehicle charging stations at two high schools and authorized the annual levy of special taxes for the Central Park Project. Several updated salary schedules for educators, police officers, and management were approved, along with contracts for modernization at Santa Ana High School.
- Appointed Michelle Wilson as Assistant Principal, Godinez Fundamental High School (5-0)
- Appointed Brandon Rogers as Assistant Principal, Segerstrom High School (5-0)
- Appointed Lucia Cortes as Assistant Principal, Harvey Elementary School (5-0)
- Approved Resolution No. 22/23-3476 for EV charging easements at Santa Ana and Valley High Schools (5-0)
- Approved Resolution No. 22/23-3475 for annual levy of special taxes for Central Park Project (4-0)
- Approved updated salary schedules for SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, and Extended Management (4-0 each)
- Authorized contracts for Bid Packages 1-13 for Santa Ana High School modernization (4-0)
- Approved consent calendar excluding agreement number five for EDL Squared (5-0)
Special Board Meeting
This special board meeting consists of a single substantive item: a presentation on Santa Ana Unified School District student achievement. No decisions are scheduled; the board will hear an update from district administrators.
- Presentation on student achievement update, covering K-12, English learners, career technical education, early childhood, and visual/performing arts
The Board of Education received a presentation from Superintendent Almendarez and district staff regarding student achievement data. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded during this meeting.
Regular Board Meeting
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board will meet in closed session to discuss student expulsions, labor negotiations, personnel actions, litigation, and property negotiations. In open session, they will consider approval of a consent calendar that includes accepting gifts totaling $14,452.94 and reviewing the Williams Settlement complaint report. Public comments will also be heard.
- Approval of student expulsion(s) for violations of California Education Code (closed session)
- Conference with labor negotiator for SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA bargaining units (closed session)
- Conference with legal counsel on existing litigation (Case Nos. 30-2019-01068167 and 30-2019-01069196) and one potential case (closed session)
- Real property negotiations involving 55+ assessor parcel numbers for district-wide disposition or acquisition (closed session)
- Acceptance of gifts totaling $14,452.94 from donors (consent calendar)
The Board appointed four new administrators and approved multiple contracts for Expanded Learning Opportunities Program providers. It also approved several Memoranda of Understanding with teacher and employee associations and authorized high school PE waivers.
- Appointed James Ebiner as Executive Director of Employee Relations (4-0-1)
- Appointed Olga McCullough as Executive Director of Human Resources (5-0)
- Appointed Guadalupe Cruz as Assistant Director of Expanded Learning (5-0)
- Appointed Rosalina Espinoza as Assistant Principal, Santa Ana Virtual Academy (5-0)
- Approved contracts for 16 Expanded Learning Opportunities Program providers (4-0-1)
- Approved MOUs with Santa Ana Educators’ Association regarding Instructional Coaches and CLAS positions (5-0)
- Approved Amendment of Tentative Agreement and MOU with CSEA Chapter 41 (5-0)
- Approved high school physical education permanent waivers for Fall 2022 (5-0)
Regular Board Meeting
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board will meet in closed session to discuss student expulsions, labor negotiations, personnel matters, litigation, and real property negotiations. In open session, the board will consider a consent calendar including approval of meeting minutes, one student expulsion, and two extended field trips totaling $35,000 for 46 students from Santa Ana and Segerstrom schools.
- Approval of one student expulsion under Education Code sections, with reapplication eligible June 28, 2023
- Approval of extended field trips costing $35,000 for 46 students to locations beyond neighboring counties or overnight
- Closed session conference with labor negotiator for SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA bargaining units and unrepresented employees
- Closed session discussion of existing litigation (two cases) and anticipated litigation (two potential cases)
- Closed session negotiation over district-wide real property disposition or acquisition involving 55 assessor parcel numbers
The Board appointed a new Controller and approved a resignation agreement for a certificated employee. Most items on the consent calendar were approved, including extended field trips and various 2021-22 and 2022-23 contracts and grants.
- Appointed Johnny Leuta to the position of Controller (4-0)
- Approved resignation and resignation agreement of a certificated employee (4-0)
- Approved extended field trips per Board Policy 6153 (5-0)
- Tabled agreement #1 for California Collaborative for Educational Excellence to July 12, 2022 (4-1)
- Approved agreement #2 for 2021-22 school year (5-0)
- Approved/ratified No-Cost Community Partnership Agreements for 2021-22 (5-0)
- Approved/ratified Grant Award Applications for 2021-22 (5-0)
- Approved remainder of consent calendar including 2022-23 contracts and student expulsions (5-0)
Regular Board Meeting
The Board of Education will conduct a closed session regarding labor negotiations, employee discipline, and legal matters. The open session includes the approval of meeting minutes, acceptance of donations, and funding for extended field trips.
- Closed session: Labor negotiations with SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, and CWA
- Closed session: Public employee discipline/dismissal/reassignment for a Principal and Payroll Manager
- Closed session: Real property disposition or acquisition involving 55 Assessor's Parcel Numbers
- Acceptance of gifts, grants, and bequests totaling $154,280.00
- Approval of extended field trips for Valley and Speech and Debate totaling $18,750.00
The Board appointed Silvia Martinez as Principal of King Elementary School and Cynthia Rojas as Manager of Payroll. A proposal to expand the TK-8 Spanish Dual Language Academy at Pio Pico Elementary School was defeated. The Board also approved various district contracts, grant applications, and extended field trips.
- Appointed Silvia Martinez as Principal, King Elementary School (4-0)
- Appointed Cynthia Rojas as Manager of Payroll (4-0)
- TK-8 Expansion Configuration for Pio Pico Elementary School denied (2-1-1)
- Approved remainder of consent calendar including May 24 minutes and various 2022-23 contracts (4-0)
- Approved extended field trips per Board Policy 6153 (4-0)
- Ratified continuing master contracts for students with disabilities for 2021-22 (4-0)
- Approved/ratified 2021-22 listing of agreements/contracts (3-0-1)
Regular Board Meeting
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education will hold a closed session to consider approval of student expulsions, labor negotiations, employee discipline, litigation, and real property negotiations. In open session, the board will recognize employees of the month and vote on a consent calendar including meeting minutes and acceptance of gifts totaling $8,546.
- Approve student expulsion(s) for violations of California Education Code Sections 48900, 48900.2, etc.
- Conference with labor negotiator for SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, and CWA bargaining units
- Conference with legal counsel regarding existing litigation (Case Nos. 30-2019-01068167-CU-WM-CSC and 30-2019-01069196-CU-MC-CJC)
- Conference with real property negotiator for district-wide disposition or acquisition (55 APNs listed)
- Accept gifts in accordance with Board Policy 3290, including a total of $8,546 for this agenda
The Board approved the release of two intern employees and eight probationary certificated employees. A majority of the consent calendar was approved, though several items regarding contracts and personnel were removed for separate action or tabled.
- Approved Resolution No. 21/22-3465 to release two intern employees (3-0-1)
- Approved Resolution No. 21/22-3466 to release eight probationary certificated employees (3-0-1)
- Approved remainder of consent calendar including student expulsions and field trips (3-0)
- Tabled ratification of Master Contract for students with disabilities to June 14, 2022 (3-0)
- Approved all facilities agreements (4-0)
- Tabled NCEE agreement to June 14, 2022 (4-0)
- Ratified expenditure summary and warrants over $25,000 for April 27 to May 10, 2022 (4-0)
Regular Board Meeting
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board will vote to approve student expulsions for violations of California Education Code sections 48900 series. Closed‑session items include negotiations with labor unions, employee discipline actions, updates on existing litigation, and real‑property negotiations. The board will also recognize Employees of the Year, approve recent meeting minutes, and accept gifts totaling $2,650.
- Approve student expulsion(s) for violations of California Education Code sections 48900‑48900.7 and 48915(c) per Board Policy 5144.1
- Closed‑session conference with labor negotiators (SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA) for certificated and classified employees
- Closed‑session discussion of public employee discipline/dismissal for several district staff members
- Closed‑session conference with legal counsel regarding existing litigation (Case No. 30‑2019‑01068167‑CU‑WM‑CSC and 30‑2019‑01069196‑CU‑MC‑CJC)
- Accept gifts, grants, and bequests totaling $2,650 (2021‑2022 total donations $159,146.35) per Board Policy 3290
The Board appointed four staff members to leadership and coordinator roles. It also approved a series of student expulsions and ratified purchase orders and expenditures for April 2022.
- Appointed Michele DeJournett as Assistant Director, Support Services (5-0)
- Appointed Tiffany Jones as MTSS Coordinator of Behavior (5-0)
- Appointed Patricia Schiessel as Coordinator of Student Achievement Programs (5-0)
- Appointed Jamie Bates as Assistant Principal, Esqueda Elementary School (5-0)
- Approved student expulsions, including a modified term for student 431021 (5-0)
- Ratified Purchase Order Summary for April 13-26, 2022 (5-0)
- Ratified Expenditure Summary and Warrants over $25,000 for April 13-26, 2022 (5-0)
- Approved remainder of consent calendar including meeting minutes and grant applications (5-0)
Special Board Meeting - Closed Session Only
This is a special board meeting that will immediately recess into closed session. The only item is discussion of the annual evaluation process for the Superintendent. No public votes or decisions are scheduled.
- Closed session to discuss Public Employee Discipline/Dismissal/Release/Reassignment/Appointments: Annual Evaluation Process - Superintendent
The meeting was held in closed session to consider personnel matters. No substantive decisions were recorded in the minutes.
Regular Board Meeting
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board will vote to approve expulsions of students who violated specific California Education Code sections. In closed session, the Board will meet with labor negotiators, discuss employee discipline, review ongoing litigation, and consider real‑property transactions involving numerous parcel numbers. The meeting also includes routine recognitions, a consent calendar, and acceptance of gifts totaling $500.
- Approve student expulsions under California Education Code §§ 48900, 48900.2, 48900.3, 48900.4, 48900.7, and 48915(c) (Item 2.1)
- Closed‑session conference with labor negotiators from SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, and CWA (Item 2.2)
- Closed‑session discussion of public employee discipline for Assistant Superintendent and other staff (Item 2.3)
- Closed‑session conference with legal counsel regarding litigation cases No. 30-2019-01068167‑CU‑WM‑CSC, 30-2019-01069196‑CU‑MC‑CJC, and 19-05983 RV (Item 2.4)
- Closed‑session conference with real‑property negotiators on district‑wide property disposition/acquisition (multiple Assessor’s Parcel Numbers) (Item 2.5)
The Board appointed three new administrative positions and approved a $7,500 settlement for a former employee. The Board also approved the consent calendar, including student expulsions and various job description revisions.
- Approved $7,500 settlement for former classified employee (5-0)
- Appointed Gloria Olamendi as Assistant Superintendent, Special Education/SELPA (3-2)
- Appointed Krystal Diaz as Coordinator of School Climate (5-0)
- Appointed Olivia Dahlin as Coordinator of Mental Health and Support (5-0)
- Approved payment of 2021-22 Advanced Placement exam fees (5-0)
- Ratified 2021-22 district agreements and contracts (5-0)
- Approved consent calendar items including student expulsions and Head Start budget adjustment (5-0)
- Approved revised job descriptions for extended learning and site coordinator roles (5-0)
Special Board Meeting - Annual Planning Retreat
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education holds a special meeting for its annual planning retreat. The board will hear a presentation on Board Priorities and how they will be applied to the upcoming 2022-23 school year. The meeting also includes closed session items on labor negotiations, employee discipline, litigation, and real property negotiations. No votes are scheduled.
- Board Priorities update presentation for 2022-23 school year
- Closed session conference with labor negotiator for SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA bargaining units
- Closed session public employee discipline/dismissal/release/appointment
- Closed session conference with legal counsel on existing litigation (Case No. 15HF0196)
- Closed session conference with real property negotiators on district-wide property disposition/acquisition (multiple APNs)
The Board approved a settlement for existing litigation that included a letter of resignation and resolution of claims. The Board also reached consensus to allow the District to co-sponsor a City community meeting regarding a potential park.
- Approved agreement resolving existing litigation, including resignation and resolution of claims (5-0)
- Approved District co-sponsorship of a City community meeting for a proposed park (consensus)
Regular Board Meeting
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education will vote on approving student expulsions for violations of California Education Code sections during closed session. The closed session also includes labor negotiations with multiple bargaining units, personnel discipline/dismissal, litigation, and negotiations for district-wide real property acquisition or disposition involving 55+ parcels. In open session, the board will recognize Employees of the Month and accept gifts totaling $93,417.19.
- Approval of student expulsions for violations of Education Code sections 48900 et seq.
- Conference with labor negotiator for SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA bargaining units and unrepresented employees
- Real property negotiations for 55+ specific assessor parcel numbers across the district
- Recognition of Anna Colombo as Certificated Employee of the Month and Gloria Arreola as Classified Employee of the Month
- Acceptance of $93,417.19 in gifts, grants, and bequests
The Board approved four Ethnic Studies courses for intermediate and high school students. Several personnel appointments were made, and the remainder of the consent calendar was approved.
- Appointed Theresa Davis as Principal, Wilson Elementary School (5-0)
- Appointed Shawn McManus as Assistant, Sierra Preparatory Academy (5-0)
- Appointed Sergio Mancilla as Chief of School Police (4-0-1)
- Approved Ethnic Studies Elective Course for Intermediate Schools (3-2)
- Approved English 8 Ethnic Studies Course (3-2)
- Approved Artivism: Ethnic Studies in Theater Arts Course (3-2)
- Approved English 10 Ethnic Studies Course (3-2)
- Approved Personnel Calendar for hiring, promotions, transfers, resignations, retirements, and leaves (5-0)
Special Board Meeting - Budget Workshop - Revised Agenda 3/14/22
This is a special board meeting convened as a budget workshop. The board will receive an informational presentation on the State Budget and School Finance Update for 2022-23 from Capitol Advisors. No fiscal impact or action items are associated with this workshop.
- Presentation on State Budget and School Finance Update 2022-23 by Kevin Gordon of Capitol Advisors
The Board of Education held a budget workshop featuring a presentation from Capitol Advisors regarding the District's financial standing. No formal votes or policy decisions were made during the meeting.
Regular Board Meeting
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board will hold a closed session to discuss labor negotiations, employee discipline matters, legal counsel for existing litigation, and real‑property negotiations. In the open session, the Board will consider consent calendar items including acceptance of gifts totaling $22,321.16, a Williams Settlement legislation report, and approval of extended field trips budgeted at $6,000. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes and other consent items.
- Closed session: conference with labor negotiator for SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA bargaining units
- Closed session: public employee discipline/dismissal of Coordinator of Special Education and Chief Technology Officer
- Acceptance of gifts, grants, and bequests totaling $22,321.16 (no fiscal impact)
- Approval of extended field trips in accordance with Board Policy BP 6153, budget $6,000
- Williams Settlement Legislation Second Quarter Report 2021‑22 presented for information
The Board approved the 2020-21 Annual Financial Audit and a positive certification for the 2021-22 Second Interim Report. It also authorized contracts for interior upgrades at Roosevelt-Walker Elementary School and appointed two new administrators. Additionally, the Board voted to release 30 probationary certificated employees from employment.
- Appointed Maria Louisa Silang as Coordinator of Special Education (3-0)
- Appointed Mark Rodriguez as Chief Technology Officer (3-0)
- Adopted Resolution No. 21/22-3442 to release 30 probationary Certificated Employees (3-0)
- Approved the 2020-21 Annual Financial Audit Report (3-0)
- Approved positive certification of the 2021-22 Second Interim Report (3-0)
- Approved the A-G Completion Improvement Grant plan (3-0)
- Authorized contracts for Bid Package 1 for interior upgrades at Roosevelt-Walker Elementary School (3-0)
- Adopted Resolution No. 21/22-3444 proclaiming March 2022 as Arts Education Month (3-0)
Special Board Meeting - Governance Workshop
This is a Special Board Meeting/Governance Workshop with a single agenda item: a presentation updating the Board on the district's Social Emotional Wellness priorities. The presentation covers the goal, current efforts with students, families, staff, and community partners, and has no fiscal impact. No action or vote is scheduled.
- Presentation on SAUSD Board Priorities Update – Social Emotional Wellness, with no fiscal impact
The Board of Education held a governance workshop featuring a presentation on how district priorities align with the Graduate Profile. Board members requested additional data on suspensions, expulsions, and SEL metrics. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded.
Regular Board Meeting
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board will meet in closed session to discuss labor negotiations with multiple bargaining units, employee discipline, existing litigation, and real property disposition or acquisition involving dozens of parcels. In open session, the board will recognize employees of the month and the C.E.N.A. committee, and consider approval of meeting minutes and acceptance of gifts totaling $20,500.
- Closed session: conference with labor negotiator for SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA and unrepresented employees
- Closed session: conference with legal counsel on three existing lawsuits (Case Nos. 30-2019-01068167, 30-2019-01069196, 15HF0196)
- Closed session: real property negotiations on 55+ parcels across the district (APNs listed)
- Recognition of Certificated Employee of the Month Cynthia Mocnik (teacher, King Elementary) and Classified Employee of the Month Michael Saucedo (computer technician, King Elementary) with $50 e-gift cards each
- Consent calendar: acceptance of gifts totaling $20,500 in accordance with Board Policy 3290
The Board approved a 10-year renewal of the Community Workforce Agreement with the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building and Construction Trades Council. Other key actions included approving the Santa Ana Virtual Academy Plan and a tentative agreement with the California School Employees Association. The Board also authorized grocery product contracts and approved school modernization change orders.
- Approved 10-year Community Workforce Agreement renewal (5-0)
- Approved Santa Ana Virtual Academy (SAVA) Plan (5-0)
- Approved K-12 extra duty hours for Library Media and Computer Technicians (5-0)
- Approved Tentative Agreement with California School Employees Association, Chapter 41 (5-0)
- Authorized grocery product contracts with Sysco, Sunrise, and Gold Star Foods (5-0)
- Approved No-Cost Community Partnership Agreements for 2021-22 (4-1)
- Approved Deductive Change Order No. 1 for King Elementary modernization (5-0)
- Accepted completion of contract for King Elementary modernization Bid Packages 2 and 3 (5-0)
Regular Board Meeting
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education met to review student expulsions, labor negotiations, and various district contracts. The meeting included closed sessions regarding personnel discipline, legal counsel, and real property acquisitions or dispositions.
- Approval of two student expulsions for violations of the California Education Code
- Closed session discussion regarding labor negotiator bargaining units (SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA)
- Closed session discussion regarding public employee discipline and appointments
- Closed session discussion regarding real property negotiations for various Assessor's Parcel Numbers
- Approval of the January 25, 2022, Board Meeting minutes
The Board approved several school modernization and reconstruction contracts, including work at King, McFadden, Sierra, and Washington Elementary schools. The Board also appointed three coordinators and directors and approved a workers' compensation award.
- Appointed Betsy Martinez as Coordinator of Student Achievement (5-0)
- Appointed Dean Crow as Coordinator of Student Achievement (5-0)
- Appointed Gabriel Camberos as Director of Building Services (4-0-1)
- Approved Workers' Compensation Stipulated Award of $122,742.50 (4-0)
- Accepted completion of contracts for King Elementary modernization (5-0)
- Accepted completion of contracts for McFadden and Sierra Pre-K-8 projects (5-0)
- Authorized contracts for Washington Elementary reconstruction (5-0)
- Approved renaming Romero-Cruz Academy to Lydia Romero-Cruz Academy (5-0)
Regular Board Meeting
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education will meet in closed session to approve student expulsions, confer with labor negotiators for multiple bargaining units, discuss personnel matters, review existing litigation, and negotiate real property disposition or acquisition. In open session, the board will recognize employees of the month and consider consent calendar items including approval of meeting minutes and School Plans for Student Achievement for the 2021-22 school year.
- Approval of student expulsion(s) under California Education Code Sections 48900 et seq. (Item 2.1)
- Conference with labor negotiator for SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, CWA bargaining units (Item 2.2)
- Conference with real property negotiators for district-wide disposition or acquisition covering 55+ assessor parcel numbers (Item 2.5)
- Approval of School Plans for Student Achievement (SPSA) for 2021-22 school year (Item 8.2)
- Recognition of Nicole Gassner (Certificated Employee of the Month) and Kim Mancilla (Classified Employee of the Month) with $50 gift cards each (Items 5.1, 5.2)
The Board appointed a new Manager of Budget and approved the 2021-22 personnel calendar and various district contracts. Other actions included approving student expulsions, school plans for student achievement, and a revision of authorized signatories.
- Appointed Mary Sanchez as Manager of Budget (5-0)
- Approved 2021-22 Personnel Calendar as amended (4-0)
- Approved 2021-22 Agreements/Contracts listing (5-0)
- Approved 2021-22 No-Cost Community Partnership Agreements (5-0)
- Approved School Plans for Student Achievement for 2021-22
- Approved student expulsions, including an amended term for student #372367
- Adopted Resolution No. 21/22-3438 to revise authorized signatories
- Ratified purchase orders and expenditures over $25,000 for Dec 15, 2021 – Jan 11, 2022
Regular Board Meeting
The Santa Ana Unified School District Board held a regular meeting that included a closed‑session segment to discuss labor negotiations, employee discipline, pending litigation, and real‑property matters. In the open session the Board approved the minutes from December 2021 and adopted several consent‑calendar items, including a $14,200 approval for extended field trips for Century, MIT, and Saddleback schools. The meeting also featured public presentations and a report on the Williams Settlement uniform‑complaint procedure.
- Closed‑session conference with labor negotiator for SAEA, CSEA, SASPOA, and CWA bargaining units
- Closed‑session discussion of public employee discipline for the Associate Superintendent, Chief Business Official, and Manager of Custodial Services
- Closed‑session legal counsel briefing on existing litigation (Case Nos. 30-2019-01068167-CU-WM-CSC; 30-2019-01069196-CU-MC-CJC; 16-05102 RV)
- Approval of annual organizational and regular board meeting minutes (Dec 14 2021) and special board meeting minutes (Dec 21 2021)
- Approval of extended field trips for Century, MIT, and Saddleback schools with a fiscal impact of $14,200
The Board adopted a resolution to implement a Graduate Profile for students and increased the annual budget for fencing projects and repairs. Several personnel appointments and a legal settlement with Data Systems International, Inc. were approved. The Board also authorized a parking lot license agreement with the City of Santa Ana.
- Adopted Resolution No. 21/22-3437 to implement the Graduate Profile (4-0)
- Increased annual budget for Unit Price Fencing Projects and Repairs from $350,000 to $850,000 (4-0)
- Approved settlement agreement with Data Systems International, Inc. (4-0)
- Appointed Janea Marking as Associate Superintendent, Chief Business Official (4-0)
- Appointed John Gonzalez as Manager of Custodial Services (4-0)
- Approved license agreement with City of Santa Ana for Memorial Park parking lot (4-0)
- Ratified Associate Superintendent, Human Resources Agreement (4-0)
- Approved Deductive Change Order No. 1 for McFadden and Sierra Pre-K-8 projects (4-0)