After serving as an inaugural board member and FUEL President this past year, Shaheen Sheik-Sadhal has formally stepped down. Emily Rolfing has stepped in as FUEL President, and the work heading into November continues without pause.

In closed session, the board appointed an interim superintendent and voted 3 to 2 to name Don Austin the next superintendent, effective July 1. No public notice. No community input. No opportunity for families, staff, or residents to weigh in.

In a 3 to 2 vote, the board majority approved a mutual separation agreement ending Dr. Jason Glass's tenure less than a year into the role, the third superintendent lost in eighteen months. Our hearts are with Dr. Glass and his family tonight.

FUEL President Shaheen Sheik-Sadhal addresses the board majority's pattern of framing decisions around taxpayer contributions. The way we honor taxpayers is not by repeatedly invoking how much money they contribute. The way we honor them is by delivering what they are actually paying for — an exceptional public education system.

SchoolPower has supported Laguna Beach schools for 45 years. FUEL formed in early 2025 in response to governance concerns. They are entirely separate organizations with different missions. FUEL board member and SchoolPower trustee Iva Pawling sets the record straight.

Strong words. Necessary words. Board Minority Member Dr. Malczewski outlines serious concerns about governance, transparency, and the erosion of democratic norms. Her message is about protecting students, educators, and the integrity of our public institutions.

One year ago, a small group of parents came together after a shift in leadership on our LBUSD school board. What began as a response to that moment has grown into a trusted, parent-led organization of over 500 supporters. Here is what this first year meant and where we go from here.