MCSD Regular Board Meeting January 13th 2026

The Merced City School District held its regular board meeting on January 13, 2026. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of a contract for Microsoft Defender antivirus software, replacing the previous CrowdStrike contract, resulting in a cost savings of nearly $27,000 for the period February 1, 2026, through January 31, 2027. The board also approved a contract with UC Merced for the 2026 Bobcat Summer Academy, valued at $263,640, to serve up to 600 students in grades 4-8 during June and July 2026. Additionally, an 18-month contract with UC Merced CalTeach Tutors was approved, valued at $374,790, to support up to 320 students in after-school tutoring through June 2027. There was discussion about the uniformity and fairness of providing startup costs to vendors, with the board requesting clearer policies to ensure equitable treatment in future funding applications. The board also approved acceptance of various community donations valued at several thousand dollars to support student needs. Other agenda items included the introduction of a new classified position for a community engagement specialist and presentations on family literacy programs and student achievements. No votes were taken on the community engagement specialist position as it was presented for first reading only.