Novato Unified School District Regular Board Meeting 10/20/2026

At the October 20, 2026, Novato Unified School District regular board meeting, staff presented a proposed process for addressing the district’s $6.5 million ongoing structural deficit. Staff proposed phased board discussions on November 17, December 1, and December 15, with January meetings available if more time is needed, and described evaluating potential reductions through a program matrix that considers costs, student outcomes, and other impacts. Trustees discussed the approach and staff communications; no specific cuts or spending actions were approved during this discussion. The consent agenda was approved without any items pulled.

The board also held a study session on education workforce housing at the San Andreas and Meadow Annex sites. The district described the housing work as funded through restricted facilities funds, not the operating general fund, and said it had selected an entitlement team that includes KTGY, Dorman and Associates, Brailsford & Dunlavey, WRA, CBG, LAK, and F3 Legal. Trustees generally favored a San Andreas concept that retains the aquatic area, with possible adjustments to add units, and discussed Meadow Annex concepts combining townhomes and apartments with covered, secure parking; childcare, parking levels, unit mix, costs, and community fit remain under review. No site plan or procurement award was approved. Staff plans to incorporate community input from a November 9 meeting and return with refined plans in January.