Meeting
Pajaro Valley Unified School District 06/17/2026
Body
CTV Santa Cruz County
Date
June 16, 2026
Jurisdiction
State & Local
The Pajaro Valley Unified School District Board of Education held a meeting on June 17, 2026, focusing extensively on budgetary matters, contract approvals, and district policies. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of contracts for services such as PBPSA and Effective School Solutions, with public concerns raised about the use of discretionary block grant funds and the reliance on outside contractors versus retaining district counselors. The board reviewed the district's fiscal outlook, highlighting a projected structural deficit requiring $20 million in expenditure reductions or new revenues by 2028-29, and discussed the commitment of funds to buffer future deficits. A voter survey on a potential facilities bond measure was presented, indicating community support for an extension of the current tax to raise $192 million for facility improvements, though some board members expressed skepticism about its passage given recent financial management concerns. The meeting also covered the special education local plan, employee compensation adjustments, and the approval of district policies including homework and mobile device use. Public comments frequently addressed staffing shortages, safety concerns, and the impact of layoffs on student services. Motions were passed to approve the agenda, budget commitments, and various policies, while some contract items were deferred for further discussion. The board also received a recommendation to rename a middle school to Central Coast Middle School, citing fiscal responsibility and community support. Overall, the meeting was marked by robust public engagement and detailed fiscal oversight discussions amid ongoing challenges in staffing and resource allocation.
Source
CTV Santa Cruz County