Safe Schools Presentation

Trustees Vanesa Estrella and Ruthi Hanchett attended the Safe School Presentation on January 8. They reassured Fullerton families that schools do not ask about or record students’ immigration status, which ensures that this information is not in school records. The elementary school district emphasizes that it is a safe environment for all students. Families with concerns can contact the district for resources and information about immigration and the right to a free education.

Open Enrollment

The elementary school district’s open enrollment period continues until February 14. FSD accepts requests for in-district transfers to schools other than a student’s home school and applications from students who live outside the Fullerton district area. See the forms and other information on their website at http://www.myfsd.org.

California Dashboard Information

Director of Education Services Sung Chi shared updates on chronic absenteeism and English learner (EL) reclassification during a presentation. Chronic absenteeism, defined as missing 10% or more of the school year, can lead to various issues for students. Dr. Helene Morris outlined a district-wide initiative to foster a safe learning environment and improve attendance, involving community partners like the Boys and Girls Club. Despite progress for English learners, foster youth, and students facing housing insecurities, more support is needed for students with disabilities and certain racial demographics. Attendance recovery programs provide funding but have limited effectiveness in reducing absences.

Superintendent Dr. Bob Pletka pointed out an increase in special populations, particularly students without housing, post-COVID-19, indicating a need for further support. English learners are reclassified as proficient upon meeting specific criteria, with FSD achieving a +4.4% increase in EL reclassification, due to various supportive measures. Board President Beverly Berryman acknowledged progress, while Dr. Adaina Brown stressed the importance of continuous improvement in academic support.

After school ENCORE Program Fee Increase

The district’s ENCORE expanded learning program has approved its final segment of a three-year fee increase with a 4-1 vote. Trustee James Cho opposed the increase despite program director Jason Chong’s assurance that the new price will remain frozen until 2028. The fees for the before and after-school care program were frozen at 2019 levels due to COVID and federal funding. ENCORE operates from 6 am to 6 pm, offering activities like EL boot camp, STEM programs, speech and debate, chess, music, and arts. The program has grown from 800 to over 2,100 students in five years, with waitlists opening in April for next year. Current monthly fees are $380, up from $295 in 2019, but qualifying families can access the program with reduced fees.

More information can be found at http://www.fullertonsd.org/encore.

The trustees voted to create a Bond Measure N Oversight Committee. For applications go to http://www.fullertonsd.org.

The next regularly scheduled FSD board meeting is 6 pm February 18.