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2/28/08 Highlights Ciry and San Lorenzo Unified School District Liaison Committee Page 2 <br />offering programs with limited staff, and the state budget decreases. Council <br />member Souza commented on the traditional high school experience, and marketing <br />of the program to benefit both high schools. District staff stated that the key to the <br />program was having staff who are excited; overall goal to have small learning <br />communities throughout the district. They commented on the federal grant which is <br />funding the program. <br />City Manager Jermanis asked how the City or Chamber could help. There was a <br />discussion of job shadowing; the issue will be brought back to future liaison <br />committee meetings. <br />2. Update on Washington Manor Middle School Gymnasium -Joint-Use Project <br />Dr. Shira reported that there were over 18 bidders for the construction project; it will <br />go to the next Board meeting for approval. Solar financing did not work out, but will <br />be looking at a solar program in the future. Project will take 18-20 months to <br />complete; staging will begin during spring break. <br />Mr. Jermanis asked if any other green building practices were planned. The district <br />indicated that the gyms and libraries were using more day lighting in their design, <br />they also commented on a potential bond measure for increased energy management <br />systems. There are currently two smaller PGE solar projects occurring. <br />Council member Souza thanked the district for coming to the recent HOA meeting. <br />Council member Starosciak mentioned her concern for impacts to the neighborhood <br />as the gym project moves ahead. <br />3. Discussion of Potential State Budget Reductions Impact on School Programs <br />Dr. Byas reported on the estimated $4 million impact to the district. He is meeting <br />with employee groups to discuss the matter; he provided ahand-out on the issue. His <br />goal is to minimize impacting student achievement, safety, and employee loss. He <br />will be tightening up staffing due to lower enrollment, reducing administrative costs, <br />and considering a parcel tax. <br />Council member Prola commented that the deficit may end up being larger than <br />anticipated. Council member Starosciak suggested that empowerment funds may be <br />a future resource to staff and schools. Mr. Jermanis stated that is would be important <br />to know about any future ballot measures. The district stated that they would be <br />potentially looking at November for a facilities bond. <br />4. Public Comments <br />Betty Moose, former School Board member -addressed the committee members <br />about the information packet on the academies and the need for additional marketing <br />and promotion; she stated that parents need to be informed; she urged them to use the <br />PTA members as a resource. <br />