LLos Alamitos USD Board of Education Meeting Workshop Tuesday, September 15 2026

The Los Alamitos Unified School District Board of Education held a workshop meeting on September 15, 2026, focusing primarily on technology leadership updates and significant facilities projects. The board introduced Jeremy Ortiz as the new Assistant Director of Technology, highlighting his 16 years of service and leadership in advancing the district's IT capabilities, including AI initiatives. Facilities Director Edwin Mongia provided detailed updates on recent and upcoming capital improvement projects, including roofing replacements, asphalt paving, and restroom renovations across several schools. Major projects discussed included the installation of new artificial turf practice fields at the high school, with a current budget of $2.5 to $3 million, and the design and construction of a new performing arts center. The performing arts center project, led by Westgroup Designs, involves seismic mitigation, improved auditorium seating, expanded storage, and enhanced accessibility features, with a projected 14-month construction timeline starting after DSA approval. Budget considerations were also addressed, noting a $15 million original allocation for the performing arts center renovation, supplemented by $11.3 million in state matching funds, but still facing a $4 million shortfall after reallocations and savings. The board discussed future planning for the demolition of the existing performing arts center and interim use of the cleared space. Overall, the meeting emphasized ongoing investment in physical infrastructure to support educational and extracurricular activities, with attention to budgeting, project scheduling, and community impact.