CUSD Board Meeting 1-21-26

The Carlsbad Unified School District Board held a meeting on January 21, 2026, covering a range of topics including updates on capital improvement projects funded by Measure HH bond funds. The board received detailed progress reports on phase 2 projects at Aviara Oaks Middle School and Buenav Vista Elementary School, as well as plans for the Carl'sbad Village and Seaside Academy relocations. Discussions included budget allocations for secure main office entries, fire alarm system replacements, stadium improvements, and soil mitigation investigations at Sage Creek High School, with an estimated $8.5 million in anticipated costs for upcoming projects. The board debated the choice between synthetic turf and natural grass for athletic fields, ultimately approving synthetic turf installation and track improvements. Additionally, the board approved the 2024-25 annual audit report, which showed a clean financial opinion, and discussed adjusting board member compensation in line with new state legislation, approving an increase effective January 2026. Several board policies were reviewed and updated, including a new policy on artificial intelligence use in the district, which was approved as a first reading with plans for further local input and administrative regulations. The board also considered a policy on symbolic flags and banners for awareness months, approving it with some dissent due to concerns about clarity and potential politicization. No new contracts or procurement awards were reported, but the meeting included significant discussions on capital projects, budget considerations, and policy updates that could influence future procurement and district operations.