The board majority is scheduled to take a final vote on Bylaw 9322. The superintendent did not recommend this change. Here is what the proposed revision would do, why it matters, and what FUEL believes is at stake for shared governance in our district.

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.

Before accepting the narrative being offered, consider the full picture. FUEL takes a closer look at what is being said, what is being left out, and why it matters for our community.

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.

In January 2026, FUEL ran its first public advertisement in the Laguna Beach Independent and Stu News Laguna. The ad introduced FUEL to the broader community, explained why parents organized after the December 2024 school board meeting, and outlined what a 501(c)(4) structure allows FUEL to do on behalf of students and families. We are sharing it here as part of our permanent record.

A detailed recap of the January 22 board meeting, including governance concerns, proposed changes to Board Bylaw 9322, treatment of professional staff, and key moments that highlight why transparency and shared leadership matter for our schools.

This past Thursday’s Board meeting reflected both the progress our district can make and the level of engagement our community continues to bring to our schools. The agenda covered curriculum, facilities, innovation, and long-term planning, and it was clear throughout the evening how much work students, families, educators, and community members have invested to move these efforts forward.

In Brief:

• The Board voted 5-0 to approve Option 1 under item 3B. Consideration and Approval of the District’s Corrective Action to Resolve the Health Care Insurance Overpayment, with the district absorbing the health care insurance overpayment.

• The board received an updated presentation and discussion on the Facilities Master Plan and long-term funding options tied to a needed future bond measure.

• Watch the meeting here.

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.

FUEL is committed to open, honest governance. Newly released district emails and Trustee Howard Hills’s recent “FUTURE” advertisement raise serious questions about transparency, professionalism, and the appropriate use of public office.

Highlights from the October 9, 2025 Board Meeting

Dr. Glass’s 100-Day Report: Building a Legacy for the Next Generation, Insurance: Complex Issues, Steady Solutions, Board Decorum: Our Community Deserves Better, and Communication and Transparency: A Crucial Reset

This week’s FUEL newsletter highlights key discussions from the October 9 Board Meeting, including updates on district health benefit funding, board conduct, communication practices, and Dr. Glass’s 100-Day Report. We share community reactions, public comments, and our call for professionalism, transparency, and unity in serving Laguna Beach students and families.

We are sharing important clips linked in our newsletter here.

During the October 9 Board Meeting, more than two dozen teachers, staff, and community members submitted written comments addressing recent events and communication from Trustee Howard Hills. The comments reflect a deep sense of concern, frustration, and sadness about the tone of board discourse and its impact on the school community…

During the October 9 Board Meeting, more than two dozen teachers, staff, and community members submitted written comments addressing recent events and communication from Trustee Howard Hills. The comments reflect a deep sense of concern, frustration, and sadness about the tone of board discourse and its impact on the school community.

We encourage parents and community members to attend the September meeting, submit public comment, or email the Board. This is a key opportunity to affirm that policies must serve students first and uphold transparency.

See our detailed thoughts in the documents below.

At the August 14 Board Meeting, the Board reviewed proposed changes to Board Policy 9310, which outlines how our district adopts and enforces its policies. The current version follows the California School Boards Association (CSBA) recommendation, which centers on student learning, equity, and collaborative governance.

Two versions of the policy were presented. One removed key student-focused language and expanded the Board majority's ability to change or suspend policies without clear limits. Superintendent Dr. Glass offered a revised version aimed at softening that language, but concerns remain. The current draft still shifts the focus away from students and blurs the line between board oversight and district administration.

This summer has been a season of reflection, reconnection, and renewed momentum for FUEL. While we took a pause in some of our communications, we aimed to give our new superintendent the space to settle in, as well as regroup as a board to reflect on what we have accomplished and where we plan to go. As we prepare for a busy Fall, we want to share highlights from a few important events, along with a preview of what lies ahead.

Initial Meeting with Dr. Jason Glass

On July 16, FUEL board members gathered in person with Dr. Jason Glass, LBUSD’s new superintendent. This was a warm and encouraging first conversation, and we are feeling hopeful about the working partnership ahead with Dr. Glass and district leadership.

A New Chapter for Laguna Beach Schools -

We are thrilled to share that the Laguna Beach Unified School District Board has unanimously selected Dr. Jason E. Glass of Kentucky as our next Superintendent. This marks a pivotal turning point for our schools, bringing fresh energy, optimism, and the opportunity to align around a shared vision for the future of public education in Laguna Beach.

Former LBUSD school board member Kelly Osborne walks the Laguna Beach community through what effective school board governance actually looks like — from the mindset of individual board members to how boards set strategic goals, support superintendents, and serve every student. The webinar also covers the 2001 Measure R bond, the 10-year Facilities Master Plan, and what a potential bond extension could mean for LBUSD. Hosted by FUEL board member Shaheen Sheik-Sadhal.

On April 21st, 2025, FUEL hosted a District Finance Webinar to help community members better understand how funds are allocated and spent within Laguna Beach Unified School District. The event featured a clear breakdown of the district’s budget, revenue sources, and spending priorities, as well as an open Q&A session with attendees. With a focus on transparency and community engagement, the webinar offered valuable insights for parents, educators, and stakeholders invested in the future of our schools.