Board approves SPSAs after principals report strong midyear growth and warn of combo-class risks

The board heard school-by-school presentations and approved two School Plans for Student Achievement (SPSAs).

Taft Principal David Lee said Taft has reduced suspensions and chronic absenteeism through PBIS and a community-school specialist supported by a grant; he highlighted targeted grouping for English learners, expanded tutoring and an approach that uses iReady and ELPAC data for small-group instruction. Lee credited teachers and site-based planning time for a midyear growth figure trustees emphasized in discussion; one slide cited that roughly two-thirds of students met or exceeded midyear growth projections. After questions about assessments and tutoring capacity, the board moved and approved Taft's SPSA.

Garfield Principal Jennifer reported similar gains: improved attendance, reduced suspensions, growth in ELPAC reclassification (cited base growth from 32 to 44) and strong Spanish I-Ready and math progress (principal cited midyear math growth reaching about 70% versus prior-year figures near 41%). She also flagged a concern that many k-2 classes may become combos next year, which she and a classroom teacher warned could harm students needing more direct instruction; she said a parent survey about program configuration will be deployed. The board moved and approved Garfield's SPSA.

Both approvals were moved and seconded on the record and carried; trustees praised staff and the school communities for the reported gains.