Open Session - SMBSD Board Meeting - February 4th, 2026

The Santa Maria Bonita School District Board held a regular open session meeting on February 4, 2026, focusing heavily on educational program restructuring and budgetary considerations. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing the proposed changes to instructional support roles, including the approval of new job descriptions for site coaches and academic support teachers. The district presented data highlighting persistent underperformance in English language arts and math, justifying the need for a new support model aimed at improving student outcomes. The board approved the job descriptions despite concerns from educators about communication, workload, and the impact on existing teams. Additionally, the board approved the renewal of the special education extended school year waiver, which adjusts service days and hours to better support inclusive education. The meeting also included approval of a contract with Kirsten Chriswell Consulting to support wellness initiatives in schools. Public comments reflected strong educator input on workload, inclusion programs, and the need for collaborative decision-making. The board acknowledged communication challenges and committed to ongoing collaboration with educators and stakeholders during implementation.