Feb 05, 2026 - Special Meeting of the Board of Trustees

The special meeting of the Apple Valley Unified School District (AVUSD) Board of Trustees on February 5, 2026, focused heavily on proposed budget cuts and layoffs affecting classified staff, particularly paraeducators. Public comments overwhelmingly opposed the reduction of 241 classified positions, emphasizing the critical role these employees play in student safety, special education support, and daily school operations. Union representatives from the California School Employees Association (CSEA) and Apple Valley Unified Teachers Association (AVUDA) presented proposals for successor agreements and highlighted concerns about fiscal mismanagement, lack of transparency, and the disproportionate impact of cuts on frontline staff rather than administrative salaries. The board discussed and voted on resolutions related to reductions in certificated services and contract reopeners with CSEA. Additionally, the meeting included presentations on the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) midyear review and first readings of updated board policies to ensure compliance with new state laws. The board took several votes on motions related to layoffs and contract negotiations, with some motions passing and others failing, reflecting ongoing tensions regarding budget priorities and staffing decisions.