School Board Wrap-up

The following is from the Sept. 14 meeting of the Laguna Beach Unified School District Board of Education.

School year off to a smooth start

New Supt. Sherine Smith reported on the opening of the 2010-11 school year and complimented district staff for their outstanding work.

“I have had the opportunity to be involved in many years of school openings as a teacher, principal and district administrator and have seen it done very well,” she said.

“However, this district has set the bar very high. We had an excellent opening, which I attribute to good planning, organization, execution and teamwork.”

She also thanked the PTA for an “incredible job” in welcoming back students and parents, and SchoolPower for their hard work to ensure another year of financial support.

District API scores up

Assistant Supt. of Instruction Services Nancy Hubbell announced this year’s increased Academic Performance Index score at all of the district’s schools, putting the district 20 points higher than last year.

The score summarizes a school or district’s performance on the Standardized Testing and Reporting Program and the California High School Exit Exam.

“These results reflect our sustained focus on student learning with intentional, informed instruction, systems change that supports teaching and learning, and collaboration and ownership with everyone working together, all the time,” she said.

Fiscally sound for 2010-11

Assistant Supt. of Business Services Norma Shelton presented the Unaudited Actuals Report, which she said indicates that the district is fiscally sound.