FUEL Recap: Nov. 13 LBUSD Board Meeting and Upcoming Events
FUEL Meeting Recap - November 13 LBUSD Board Meeting
Thank you to everyone who showed up, watched online, sent comments, or stayed with us throughout the night. It was a long meeting with moments of real substance, a few bright spots, and several areas that deserve continued attention. Both Dr. Glass and Trustee Hills were unable to attend. We wish them and their families well.
Watch the full meeting: HERE
Special Education Services Update - Item 3A
The evening opened with a detailed Special Education presentation that walked through how LBUSD evaluates students, aligns services with state and federal requirements, and supports families throughout the process.
We also appreciated hearing about plans for community-focused gatherings for families whose children attend programs outside LBUSD. This acknowledgment matters, and we hope these become regular, predictable events.
FUEL’s View: This was a strong presentation. Families often describe Special Education as overwhelming, especially when navigating assessments or changes in placement. Plain language, transparency, and ongoing communication make a real difference. We hope the district continues strengthening family engagement and building trust in this program.
This was also the only major item of the night directly focused on students. The remainder of the six-hour regular meeting centered on governance, bylaws, finances, and internal board processes rather than student learning or classroom needs.
Public Comment Moved to the End of the Meeting
Agenda Item 13A Public Comment - Items not on the agenda, within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Board
FUEL’s View: One major concern at the November 13th meeting was the decision to move general public comment to the very end of the meeting. This meeting lasted more than six hours and finally ended at 10:50pm. Several parents, staff members, and community members who planned to speak simply could not stay that long. Staff who wished to comment were also left waiting late into the night.
Student representatives echoed these concerns in their thoughtful reports.
Public comment belongs earlier in the meeting. Community input is most meaningful when trustees can hear from people before agenda items are discussed or voted on. Moving comments to the end undermines access, transparency, and trust. We hope President Perry reconsiders this change before the December 11th organizational meeting ahead.
Health Care Insurance Update - Item 7B
The district, through a thorough report from our new CBO, Manoj Roychowdhury shared findings from the independent audit on employee health benefit overpayments. The report outlined errors, contract misalignments, and the steps needed to bring the district back into compliance. The presentation raised reasonable questions about process, oversight, and how long the issue went uncorrected.
There was clear support for teachers, staff, and administrators who were not responsible for what occurred. Several speakers urged the Board not to consider options that would shift the financial burden onto employees.
Public comment included sincere concerns, but also a few remarks that used dramatic comparisons or language pointed at individuals rather than the systemic issue. At times, the tone felt heavy and bordering on threatening rather than solution-focused.
FUEL’s View: We support full transparency and a strong corrective plan. The district should continue strengthening financial controls and be clear about next steps. Staff deserve reassurance during this process, and any corrective approach should not fall on employees. We should be increasing the District's annual healthcare contributions as the cost increases nationally.
While accountability matters, a few comments veered into alarmist and false framing, including that money went “missing”, that does not help the community move forward. Clarity, respect, and steady leadership will serve us better than fear-driven false narratives
Board Member Travel and Event Funding - Item 8C
The Board reviewed which events trustees can attend using district funds. These choices shape expectations for spending, representation, and professional development. Dr. Malczewski asked counsel to clarify what is legally permitted, and counsel explained that district funds can cover activities that clearly benefit the district. Trustee Morgan argued that community social events like the Coast Film and Music Festival offer useful public engagement and therefore qualify. Dr. Malczewski cautioned that this logic could justify nearly any social event and said taxpayer funds should not be used this broadly, since essential board duties do not require attendance at general community events.
FUEL’s View: District-funded travel should align with educational value for students and the broader community. Consistency, fairness, and transparency matter. Without clear guardrails, this process may create unnecessary disagreements or allow for inconsistent use of funds. This discussion added significant time to an already long meeting and did not feel aligned with the district’s goal of efficiency or fiscal focus.
Review and Discussion of Governance Practices - Item 8E
The Board held a facilitated discussion on trustee roles, expectations, and the line between governance and management. The intention was helpful, but the format felt confusing. The questions provided by President Perry were unusually leading, and several trustees and even district counsel seemed unsure of the purpose or direction of the exercise.
Counsel did offer a few clear anchors: effective oversight means setting goals, staying informed, and monitoring results. Individual trustees cannot direct staff, act on behalf of the district, or shape district messaging without majority approval. The superintendent is the CEO of the district, and operational work belongs with staff. Counsel also noted that unity of purpose matters, even when trustees disagree on individual issues.
A powerful moment came when the student board representative shared that some teachers now avoid signing their names on public comments out of fear they may be targeted by trustees. This is not oversight. It reflects a breakdown in trust that needs attention.
FUEL’s View This conversation was needed, but the structure did not create clarity. Governance work should be straightforward and transparent so trustees fully understand their responsibilities. Roles must be respected, communication should be steady and respectful, and staff should never feel intimidated for speaking honestly. Clear boundaries and trust in professional expertise are essential to building a stable board culture and keeping students at the center.
Board Self-Reflection & Conduct Review - Item 12A
The Board engaged in a self-reflection exercise focused on meeting effectiveness, communication, and conduct. It was an awkward moment that attempted to create space for trustees to look inward.
FUEL’s View: We hope this becomes a foundation for real progress, not just a moment for self congratulations. Several people spoke directly about Trustee Hills’ ongoing conduct, including his emails, public comments, and the recent ad. Their concern was clear and it has created real tension and mistrust in the community. The district needs Board leadership that models respect, professionalism, and stability. Families and staff deserve nothing less.
FUEL Call to Action - Attend the Annual Organizational Meeting
December 11, 2025 at 6:00 PM | Thurston Middle School
The Board set the date for the December Organizational Meeting, where leadership roles (President, Clerk, and committee assignments) will be decided. This is one of the most significant meetings of the year.
FUEL’s View: Leadership matters. A steady, respectful Board President creates stability for staff, families, and students and helps ensure meetings remain focused and productive. The district has experienced enough turmoil this past year to feel the impact of leadership that escalates conflict rather than easing it.
We have deep concerns about the possibility of trustees whose conduct has contributed to conflict, public distrust, or misinformation being elevated into leadership roles. In our view, placing Trustees Hills or Morgan in a leadership position would not support the collaboration, transparency, or calm governance our community needs right now.
We believe the board and community are best served by continuing the consistent, steady leadership demonstrated this past year. With major issues ahead, this moment calls for stability, clarity, and a president who centers students and the long-term health of the district.
What Comes Next:
FUEL Event: Let’s celebrate a year of hard work, collaboration, and advocacy for LBUSD students! We couldn’t have done it without this incredible group.
We’ll be gathering at Laguna Brewery on December 7th at 4:00 PM. Join us for good company, good conversation, and a chance to talk through upcoming school board issues before the holiday season takes over. Bring the whole family!
We’d love to see you there! Let us know if you can make it! LINK
Read: FUEL News & Updates LINK
Act: Ask Board Members to support President Perry continuing as president and uniting the board by electing Dr. Malczewski as clerk. Email School Board and Dr. Glass
Join: Show your support for FUEL by purchasing a yard sign and proudly displaying your commitment to the students of LBUSD - LINK
Next Board Meeting: Thursday, December 11th at 6:00 pm
