Ms. Emilie Larew led the Board members and guests in the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States of America (USA).

1. Audra Herrera

• Agenda Packet Transparency: Reported that the August 27 board meeting agenda packet initially contained 494 pages and increased to 582 pages after 5:00 p.m. on August 26, with 88 additional pages, mostly from the YMC report regarding the school’s response to the CSD’s Notice of Concern.
• Insufficient Review Time: Questioned how newly appointed board members could adequately review the complete materials before voting, particularly when one member was unable to attend.
• Senate Bill 707 Compliance: Raised concerns that newly appointed board member Bev Corbett was not provided two-way communication for the meeting, allegedly violating Senate Bill 707.
• Lack of Response to Concerns: Stated that emails were sent to the acting board chair, vice chair, and HR director regarding the alleged violation, but no response was received from the board chair or vice chair before the meeting proceeded.
• HR Director’s Role: Questioned the HR director’s involvement in board matters, citing a reported $1,700 semester stipend associated with board meetings while the director allegedly denied responsibility for board-related matters.
• Bylaw Revision Concerns: Identified letters dated September 28 and October 26, 2023, requesting revisions to the bylaws to eliminate term limits. Noted that no record of CSD approval was found and called for verification and correction.
• Call for Accountability: Urged responsible preparation of agenda packets, compliance with state laws, and proper oversight by those with legal and ethical responsibilities.
• Requested Corrective Action: Called for the correction of alleged violations by the previous board chair, beginning with a review and correction of the current bylaws.

2. Carlos Monroy

Statement on behalf of Band Director Kevin Thoreau

• Reported Incidents: Shared concerns about Mr. Bosog’s conduct, documented in two incident reports filed by Michael Jeff, VAPA Assistant Percussion, dated January 12 and January 16, 2026.
• January 5 Incident: Reportedly entered a percussion rehearsal in Anderson Hall and accused a marching band instructor of negligence in front of approximately 18 students, then threatened to permanently ban the program from using the space.
• January 10 Incident: Allegedly confronted staff aggressively and disrupted student activities without prior notice. Five students were identified as witnesses.
• Communication and Conduct Concerns: Reported a pattern of poor communication regarding operational changes, defensive responses to concerns, confrontational behavior, and inconsistent enforcement of rules across programs.
• Impact on Staff and Students: Stated that staff have become reluctant to raise facilities concerns and that students have witnessed trusted adults being publicly berated, contributing to a hostile environment.
• HR Follow-Up: Reported that the incidents were documented and submitted to HR, but no meaningful action, investigation, follow-up, or preventive guidance was known to have occurred.
• Facilities Director Appointment: Raised concerns about a possible personal relationship influencing the appointment of the Director of Facilities involving Mr. Bosog and Chief Business Officer Fernando Delgado. Clarified that this was not an established fact.
• Requested Board Action: Asked the board to verify the hiring process, applicable procedures, and documentation related to the Director of Facilities appointment.
• Closing Statement: Emphasized that staff and students deserve a safe, respectful workplace where concerns are addressed professionally rather than met with intimidation.

3. Elijah Cole

• VAPA Teacher, El Camino Real Charter High School
• Concern About Security Uniforms: Raised concerns during an August professional development meeting about security staff wearing what appeared to be tactical gear resembling deportation officers.
• Question About First Day of School: Asked Director of Grounds and Facilities Mike Vasg whether security staff would wear different uniforms on the first day of school. He reportedly said no.
• Reported Response: Described Mike Vasg as defensive, rude, and hostile when addressing the concern.
• Impact on Students: Expressed concern that the uniforms could intimidate students and conflict with the school’s commitment to protecting them.
• Concerning Statement: Reported that Mike Vasg responded, “The students have seen worse than you,” which the speaker interpreted as dismissive of the potential impact on students.
• Closing Concern: Questioned whether the interaction reflected an attempt to intimidate staff and potentially students as well.
   

4. Heidi Hutson 

• Prop 28 Funding Purpose: Emphasized that Prop 28 funds are intended to support and strengthen arts and music education and should be used according to applicable requirements.
• Theater Program Impact: Reported that the theater program serves more than 100 students, produces multiple productions annually, competes at the state and national levels, and performs for thousands of students and community members.
• Improvisation Program on Hold: Explained that the improvisation program has been suspended despite serving more than 100 students through twice-weekly workshops and free weekly lunchtime performances.
• Limited Student Opportunities: Highlighted that the improvisation program provides additional opportunities for students who cannot all participate in main-stage productions.
• Delayed Administrative Responses: Reported waiting more than a month for responses from HR and administration regarding unresolved concerns.
• Lack of Budget Planning: Expressed concern that VAPA was not given a meaningful opportunity to plan and budget for Prop 28 funds during the previous spring.
• Recognition of Finance Leadership: Recognized Director of Accounting and Finance Ms. Janira Verduzo for her efforts to secure the funds and support their appropriate use.
• Absence of a Chief Business Officer (CBO): Attributed delays in financial planning and decision-making partly to the school operating for months without a CBO.
• Request for Qualified Leadership: Called for the appointment of a qualified and ethical CBO who demonstrates transparency, integrity, and commitment to students.
• Requested Board Action: Urged the board to ensure Prop 28 resources reach students and provide VAPA staff with a meaningful role in planning how the funds are allocated.
   

5. Chris Hutton 

• Approved Block Grant Budget: Reported that on October 23, 2025, the board approved a $1.77 million AMIM Block Grant spending plan, including $622,109 allocated to VAPA and CTE.
• Theater Funding Approval: Stated that on December 18, 2025, the board unanimously approved a theater lighting and live-event equipment purchase request totaling approximately $304,953.68.
• Unexplained Budget Changes: According to theater budget tracking provided by Ryan Wanto, approximately $151,000 remained after initial spending. By March 2026, additional purchase orders could no longer be submitted, and the theater program was not given a revised budget.
• Lack of Communication: Reported that staff were later informed that no funds remained, without a clear explanation of what happened to the previously approved allocation.
• Device Purchases Reclassified: Cited 2026 check registers showing approximately $500,000 in teacher-device purchases, originally associated with the Instructional Materials budget, reportedly reclassified under the Department of Visual and Performing Arts and charged to the block grant.
• Question About Board Approval: Asked whether the board approved the budget changes or formally rescinded and reallocated the original funding, noting that he could not find documentation of such action in the records reviewed.
• Compliance Concerns: Referenced California AMIM Block Grant requirements, emphasizing that the governing board must publicly discuss and approve the expenditure plan and that spending should remain consistent with the approved plan.
• Requested Clarification: Asked the board to explain what happened to the theater program’s funding between December and March and why approximately $500,000 in staff-device purchases were charged to the block grant.
• Closing Statement: Clarified that he was not alleging proven fraud but expressed concern about possible deception and a lack of transparency in the handling of the funds.

6. Speaker

• Concerns About Leadership: Urged the board to evaluate whether Mike Bosog and Vanya Rodriguez are suitable for their current roles as ECR works to rebuild its culture and work environment.
• Successful Community Outreach: Reported hosting a South Asian community program for approximately 14 years, bringing around 700 women to campus. In December 2025, the speaker also partnered with another community group to organize a senior citizen program serving approximately 150 seniors.
• Repeated Scheduling Issues: Stated that senior citizen program dates were repeatedly confirmed with Coach Colson and placed on the official calendar, but changes were later required.
• March Event Disruption: Reported that despite confirming arrangements with Mike Bosog the day before the event, the gates were locked and Anderson Hall was not prepared. Senior citizens, including individuals using walkers and wheelchairs, were left waiting.
• Overtime and Staffing Concerns: Reported that Mike Bosog stated he would not pay overtime for non-school-related events, leaving the speaker without prior notice to make alternative arrangements.
• Cancellation of Community Programs: Stated that the April event was also canceled and that, after raising concerns with Mike Bosog and Fernando Delgado, the speaker was told to cancel the remaining dates because “We don't need you.” Both community programs were subsequently discontinued.
• Hiring Process Concerns: Requested that the board review Mike Bosog’s hiring process, including the reported removal of classified union representative Richard Russell from the interview process on the day of the interview.
• Potential Conflict of Interest: Asked the board to examine whether the relationship between Fernando Delgado and Mike Bosog affected the transparency or fairness of the hiring process.
• HR Oversight Concerns: Reported personally observing former board chair Brad Wright repeatedly visiting the HR office during the summer, with some visits reportedly lasting hours. Requested a review of HR operations and Vanya Rodriguez’s role during a period of significant personnel changes.
• Requested Board Action: Asked the board to independently verify the concerns raised and assess whether current administrative leadership, communication practices, and treatment of employees and community members align with ECR’s goals moving forward.
   

7. Justin Adams 

• IT Supervisor, El Camino Real Charter High School
• Leadership and Ethics Concerns: Expressed concerns about Chief Business Officer Fernando Delgado’s leadership, ethics, and priorities, alleging that personal interests have been placed ahead of the school’s best interests.
• Software and Financial Concerns: Alleged that ECR has been using and paying for software applications associated with Fernando Delgado’s family company, including 360i Suite, MyClass, IQ, and SRM, despite concerns about their functionality and development.
• Financial Impact: Claimed that the school has invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in software that does not work as expected.
• Past Ethical Concerns: Recounted a warning from a former technology employer about Fernando Delgado’s business practices and described a past dinner involving expensive purchases charged to the employer’s account.
• Financial Oversight and Accountability: Referenced previous fiduciary concerns and questioned whether Fernando Delgado should continue signing checks and overseeing school finances.
• Call for Qualified Leadership: Urged the school to appoint a Chief Business Officer who demonstrates integrity, prioritizes the school’s interests, and ensures responsible budget management, compliance, accountability, and operational oversight.
• Technology Program Concerns: Highlighted ECR’s former recognition as a Microsoft showcase school and expressed disappointment that the school no longer holds that distinction.
• Requested Board Action: Called for new leadership and stronger accountability to restore the school’s culture, improve technology initiatives, and protect the interests of students and staff.
• Closing Statement: As an ECR alumnus from the Class of 2006, emphasized his desire for future students to experience the same positive school environment he experienced.

8. Sophia Wright

• Freshman, El Camino Real Charter High School
• Large Class Sizes: Raised concerns about overcrowded classrooms, reporting the following class sizes:
  • English: 36 students
  • Math: 38 students
  • Biology: 40 students
  • Spanish: 33 students
  • Theater: 33 students
• Impact on Teaching and Learning: Calculated an average of approximately 38 students per class and emphasized that smaller class sizes could help teachers manage classrooms more effectively and improve student learning.
• School Spending Concerns: Reported that the school spent $49,477,987 last year, equivalent to approximately $16,244 per student.
• Funding Comparison: Compared ECR’s reported per-student spending with an estimated $29,292 per student at other LAUSD schools, highlighting a stated difference of approximately $13,048 per student.
• Potential Financial Impact: Estimated that the reported per-student difference represents approximately $37.8 million across the ECR student population.
• Teacher Salary Estimates: Cited estimated annual salaries of $60,000 for beginning teachers, $80,000 for intermediate-level teachers, and $100,000 for senior-level teachers.
• Requested Board Action: Urged the board to investigate the apparent funding discrepancy, determine where additional resources could come from, and consider how those funds could be used to benefit students and improve educational conditions.

9. Flor Zuniga

• Classified Hourly Staff Member, El Camino Real Charter High School
• Welcome to New Board Members: Expressed appreciation for the newly elected board members and their commitment to the school.
• HR Responsibilities: Highlighted the Director of Human Resources’ responsibility to enforce the employee handbook, advise against conflicts of interest and self-dealing, maintain neutrality, and ensure compliance with school and state laws and regulations.
• Staff Support and Workplace Culture: Emphasized that HR should provide a safe and impartial process for staff grievances and help maintain positive employee morale and school culture.
• Lack of Action on Complaints: Alleged that formal staff complaints, including those supported by witnesses, were repeatedly deemed unfounded without appropriate follow-up or corrective action.
• Hostile Work Environment: Reported low staff morale and concerns that teachers, staff, and management feel unsupported when raising workplace issues with HR.
• Retaliation Concerns: Claimed that some employees experienced retaliation, leading to resignations, terminations, or continued employment under significant stress.
• Reduced Trust in HR: Stated that ongoing concerns have discouraged employees from reporting workplace issues, potentially exposing the school to future liability.
• Requested Board Action: Urged the board and interim executive director to initiate a search for a new Director of Human Resources to improve accountability, employee support, and workplace culture.

10. Speaker

• Recognition of Progress: Acknowledged the board’s progress in bringing coaches back and encouraged recognition of the improvements already made.
• Legacy of Past Issues: Emphasized that the current board inherited problems accumulated over approximately 10 years and that resolving them will require time and sustained effort.
• Financial Concerns: Reported reviewing the school’s financial records and expressed serious concerns about the institution’s financial condition and the possibility of missing or misallocated funds.
• Risk to School Sustainability: Warned that, based on the speaker’s own estimates, the school could face bankruptcy within approximately four years if its financial problems are not addressed.
• Charter Renewal Concerns: Highlighted the importance of resolving financial issues to protect the school’s upcoming charter renewal and long-term operations.
• Need for Financial Accountability: Urged the board to balance the budget properly, identify misallocated funds, and investigate financial irregularities.
• Employment and Legal Review: Recommended consulting legal counsel to review employment-related decisions and determine why certain actions were taken, rather than immediately calling for individuals to be removed.
• Qualified Financial Leadership: Recommended hiring a Chief Business Officer (CBO) with a CPA license and strong budgeting expertise to improve financial management.
• Enrollment and Staffing Impact: Noted that declining enrollment reduces available funding and can affect teacher staffing and student-to-teacher ratios.
• Closing Statement: Expressed confidence that the board has the ability to address the school’s challenges and put ECR on a more sustainable financial path.
   

• Vote of No Confidence: Announced a formal vote of no confidence in the school’s current governance and leadership, supported by a petition signed by 283 individuals.
• Basis for the Petition: Cited ongoing concerns regarding board governance, independent oversight, financial and operational accountability, transparency, employee treatment, and administrative leadership.
• Concerns About Board Governance: Raised allegations of insufficient independent oversight, limited transparency regarding board vacancies and elections, changes to bylaws, and inadequate board deliberation and accountability.
• Election Irregularities: Reported concerns about irregularities in the electronic election of the parent representative and called for accountability for those allegedly responsible.
• Employee Treatment and Retaliation: Described a workplace culture characterized by fear of retaliation, with employees and community members believing that previously raised concerns had not resulted in meaningful investigations or corrective action.
• Financial and Procurement Concerns: Raised questions about procurement practices, requests for proposals (RFPs), contract approvals, purchasing policies, and internal financial controls, particularly regarding Chief Business Officer Fernando Delgado.
• Facilities Department Concerns: Alleged that Director of Facilities Mike Bosog contributed to a hostile work environment, poor communication regarding operational changes, and inconsistent personnel management.
• Human Resources Concerns: Raised allegations that Director of Human Resources Vanya Rodriguez failed to provide appropriate guidance on employment decisions, compliance with governance requirements, and workplace concerns involving the Director of Facilities.
• Governance Changes: Reported that Board Chair Brad Wright and Vice Chair Alexandra Ramirez had resigned, effective September 6, 2026, and that three new board members had been installed to replace departing members.
• Employee Representation: Highlighted the election and seating of a parent representative and two teacher representatives as steps toward strengthening representation and accountability within the school’s governance structure.
• Requested Resignations: Called for the immediate resignations of Chief Business Officer Fernando Delgado, Director of Facilities Mike Bosog, and Director of Human Resources Vanya Rodriguez.
• Requested Independent Investigation: Asked LAUSD to conduct an independent review of governance practices, procurement procedures, personnel decisions, election concerns, and compliance with school bylaws and policies.
• Requested Leadership Changes: Urged the interim executive director to restore employee confidence, improve transparency, and strengthen accountability by hiring new leaders for the Chief Business Officer, Director of Facilities, and Director of Human Resources positions through an open process involving staff and parents.
• Closing Statement: Reaffirmed the school community’s commitment to integrity, transparency, accountability, and decisions that prioritize students, employees, families, and the long-term success of ECRCHS.
   

Presenter: Richard Russell

• Welcome and Recognition: Congratulated the newly seated board members and expressed support for the board’s decisions to bring back Jason Camp and Ryan Guinto and reinstate Mr. Jones to a supervisory position.
• Classified Representative Election Concerns: Raised concerns that classified employees have not been allowed to vote for their board representative since May 25, 2021, despite the right reportedly provided in the school’s governing documents.
• Appointments Instead of Elections: Reported that the last three classified representatives were selected through board appointments rather than elections by classified employees, with some potential candidates reportedly disqualified.
• Timeline of Representative Appointments:
  • May 25, 2021: Daniela Vargas was installed as classified representative without a vote by classified employees.
  • September 10, 2024: Sebastian Winter was installed as classified representative, again without an employee vote.
  • Mid-2025: Winter stepped down after reportedly being determined ineligible due to an expired visa.
  • July 11, 2025: The board appointed Joe Kokowicz to complete the remainder of the classified representative’s term without a vote by classified employees.
• Potential Conflict-of-Interest Concerns: Raised questions about relationships involving previous representatives, school administrators, and the former board chair, including reported personal or professional connections.
• Importance of Classified Staff Representation: Emphasized that classified employees play essential roles in school operations, including office administration, facilities maintenance, special education support, technology, campus security, and assistance to teachers.
• Vote of No Confidence: Requested a formal vote of no confidence in Joe Kokowicz as the current classified representative, arguing that the position should be accountable to the employees it represents.
• Requested Board Action:
  • Review the school’s governing documents, board minutes, nomination records, and the timeline of appointments.
  • Allow classified employees to nominate candidates and vote for their representative.
  • Conduct a fair and transparent election among classified employees.
  • Recognize the representative selected through that election in accordance with the school’s governing documents.
• Closing Statement: Reaffirmed AFSCME Local 540’s willingness to work with the new board and emphasized the importance of listening to employees and prioritizing students to move ECR forward.

Interim Executive Director Emilie Larew

• New Administrative Staff: Welcomed newly hired administrators Edgar Ortega, overseeing athletics, English, and other areas, and Philippa Vedros, overseeing Student Support Services.
• Returning Staff and Reopened Positions:
  • Diatri Jones: Returned to the Campus Aide Senior position on September 16.
  • Ryan Guinto: Scheduled to return as Director of Student and Teacher Technology on September 28.
  • Jason Camp: Scheduled to return as Administrative Director overseeing discipline on September 28.
• Updated Organizational Chart: An updated organizational chart will be provided to reflect the staffing changes and new reporting structure.
• PBIS Program Updates: Recognized the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) team for its ongoing work, including new initiatives and a staff refresher session during the common planning day.
• Royal Rewards Program: The team is exploring a site visit to another school with a well-developed program to identify effective practices and strengthen ECR’s positive behavior support initiatives.
• Upcoming Student Activities: Highlighted upcoming events, including the student-versus-staff volleyball game, senior getaway, golf course pep rally, Club Rush, Homecoming Dance, Homecoming Day, and various athletic activities.
• Encouragement for Student Support: Invited board members, families, teachers, and the school community to attend events and support student participation and achievement.
• Charter Renewal Update: Noted that the charter renewal process would be addressed separately under the relevant board resolution agenda item.
• Closing Remarks: Expressed optimism about having staff positions filled and moving forward with school operations and student support initiatives.
  
   

Board Chair Update – Ms. Mariellen Webster

• Commitment to Board Service: Acknowledged that the three board members have been attending recent meetings and preparing as best they can amid the school’s ongoing challenges.
• Return of Teachers: Highlighted the return of teachers to campus as a significant step forward for the school.
• Filling Board Vacancies: Reported that the board is working to fill vacant positions, with the goal of appointing community representatives by the next regular board meeting.
• Community Grant Applications: Noted that applications for community grants have already been received.
• Appreciation for Community Support: Thanked staff, parents, and community members for their participation, feedback, and continued engagement despite the many concerns facing the school.
• Commitment to ECR: Explained that the board members stepped forward because of their strong connection to and passion for the school.
• Request for Patience: Asked the community to remain patient as the board works through challenges and learns to navigate its responsibilities.
• Encouragement for Continued Engagement: Urged the school community to remain involved, attend meetings, and continue sharing concerns and feedback.
• Closing Remarks: Emphasized that board meetings should be transparent and informative so the community understands what is happening at the school.
   

• Agenda Item: Discuss and vote on the election of an interim board secretary.
• Motion to Table: Ms. Rogers moved to table the item.
• Reason for Deferral: A board secretary is needed to proceed with the vote on the charter renewal resolution.
• Next Steps: The board acknowledged that the item would likely need to be revisited before the next regular meeting to ensure a secretary is elected.
• Clarification: The motion to table was intended to defer the item, not postpone it indefinitely.
  
   

• Committee Membership Shortages: The board discussed the need to update membership for the Finance and Investment Committee and the Travel Committee due to insufficient members.
• Motion to Table: A motion was raised to table the item, but the board continued discussing committee membership and operational needs.
• Quorum Requirements: Members clarified that two committee members must be present to proceed with committee business, with additional members recommended to ensure coverage when someone is unavailable.
• Finance and Investment Committee: Ms. Rogers and another board member were identified as serving on the Finance and Investment Committee.
• Travel Committee Vacancies: The board acknowledged that there is currently no functioning Travel Committee due to the shortage of members.
• Travel Approvals: The board discussed the need for a special board meeting if travel requests arise before the committee is reconstituted.
• Theater Travel Funding: Members referenced previously approved travel funding for theater and raised questions about how other programs, including ROTC, could submit or obtain approval for travel requests.
• Unfunded Requests: The board asked whether any programs currently have approved but unfunded travel or field trip requests.
• Follow-Up: A member offered to check with staff, including Rupert, to identify outstanding travel or field trip funding needs.

• Purpose of the Resolution: Interim Executive Director Emilie Larew presented the resolution authorizing the lead petitioner to engage in the charter renewal process with LAUSD and submit the petition in accordance with legal requirements and district policies.
• Charter Renewal Timeline: The school plans to submit its renewal petition during the October charter window, with an intake appointment scheduled for late October.
• Updated Student Performance Data: Explained that the school intends to use updated test scores and other recent information in its petition. Student performance data for students with disabilities reportedly improved significantly, addressing a benchmark from the previous charter renewal oversight report.
• Board Review and Feedback: The updated petition materials will be presented to the board for review and feedback.
• Release of Information: Some information required for the petition is embargoed until October 15. A special board meeting may be scheduled after that date and before October 28 to review the petition.
• Need for Authorization: The resolution must be approved to authorize the lead petitioner to proceed with the renewal process. Legal counsel recommended adopting it as soon as possible.
• Board Secretary Requirement: The charter renewal petition requires the board secretary’s signature. Members discussed the need to establish an interim board secretary before completing the submission process.
• Interim Secretary Eligibility: Clarification was provided that, under the bylaws, the interim secretary may be a board member or an employee, although the position has historically been filled by a board member.
• Motion to Table: A motion was made to table the resolution authorizing submission of the charter renewal petition to the LAUSD Board of Education.
   

Presenter: Ms. Janneyra Verduzco, Director of Finance

- ASB Trust Account: Reported 11 payments totaling $22,680.51 for August 2026.

• $8,497 to Smith Water Motor Boat Services for the football luau in Hawaii on August 20.
• $850 deposit for the senior picnic.
• $1,743.71 for student store snack inventory.
• $650 for a track and field needle.

- Accounts Payable (AP) Account: Reported 52 transactions totaling $174,452.70, consisting of 38 checks and 14 ACH transfers.

• $52,278 to HMH Education Company for MAP Growth testing materials and academic assessments.
• $32,500 for a non-wage settlement.
• $10,914.75 for NoRedInk Corporation’s annual subscription for the 2026–2027 school year, supporting writing, grammar, and language instruction.

- General Account: Reported seven recurring payments totaling $411,089.37, all processed through ACH transfers.

• $314,980.03 for SISC health benefits.
• $61,804 for CharterSafe liability insurance for October 2026, paid in advance.
• $32,898.40 to PenServ Plan Services.

- ASB Trust Balance Report: Presented the ending balances for 112 club trust accounts as of August 2026, totaling $453,525.81.

• NJROTC: $43,055.04
• Football: $40,811.82
• Drama: $32,550.37
   

-Negative Account Balances: Identified three club accounts with negative balances. Notes and action items were provided, with follow-up planned to address the issues.

Presenter: Ms. Janneyra Verduzco, Director of Finance

• Credit Card Report: Presented the August 2026 credit card statements for three cardholders: Interim Executive Director Emilie Larew, David Hussey, and Fernando Delgado.
• Emilie Larew – Athletics Expenses: Reported total charges of $13,405.82, with nearly all expenses related to the varsity football team’s away game in Hawaii.
• David Hussey – Expenses: Reported total charges of $422.56, including Facebook/Meta, Google, Indeed, and water-related expenses.
• Fernando Delgado – Departmental Expenses: Reported 37 charges spanning nearly every department.
  • The largest identified expense was $11,587.50 for the Kami app, an educational technology platform that allows teachers and students to annotate worksheets, textbooks, and other documents.
• Purchasing Controls: The Director of Finance stated that credit card charges are reviewed and approved, and that purchases require an approved purchase order before being made.
• Credit Card Access Update: In response to a board member’s question, it was clarified that the credit cards assigned to David Hussey and Fernando Delgado are currently on hold and inactive, and they are no longer authorized users.

- June 2026 – Fiscal Year-End Update:

• The Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) Trust closed fiscal year 2025–2026 with a balance of $37,377,802.
• The OPEB Trust recorded an annual return of 11.9%.
• Combined investments, including the general fund accounts, totaled approximately $46.3 million at fiscal year-end.

- July 2026 – First Month of Fiscal Year 2026–2027:

• The OPEB Trust began July with a balance of $37,377,802.
• After $66,898 in OPEB payments, the trust closed at $37,137,563.
• The account experienced a 0.6% decline during the month.

- August 2026 – Second Month of Fiscal Year 2026–2027:

• The OPEB Trust rebounded, closing August at $37,639,931.
• The account gained 1.4% for August and was up 0.7% year to date.
• Total investment gains for the first two months of the fiscal year were reported at approximately $395,924.
• OPEB retiree payments during the period totaled approximately $133,195.

Presenter: Ms. Vania Rodriguez, Director of Human Resources

• Handbook Revisions: Presented updates to the 2026–2027 Employee Handbook, revised with assistance from the school’s attorneys. All changes were highlighted in red in the revised document.
• Mandated Reporting and Professional Boundaries: Expanded requirements for mandated reporting and maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
• Employee Workplace Protections: Added workplace protections and employee notification requirements.
• Workplace Recordings: Established rules governing recordings in the workplace.
• Sick Leave: Expanded the permissible uses of sick leave.
• Funding and Pregnancy-Related Leave: Updated provisions concerning school funding and pregnancy-related leave benefits.
• Administrative Updates: Revised references to the appropriate departments throughout the handbook. References to the Business Office were updated to Human Resources or Payroll in policies covering safety, Social Security, flexible spending accounts, and retiree benefits.
• Employment of Relatives and Personal Relationships: Updated the policy to identify the Executive Director as the appropriate person for disclosure and approval of employment-related family or personal relationships.
• Board Action: The revised handbook was presented for discussion and a vote to approve the 2026–2027 Employee Handbook. The provided narrative does not specify the voting outcome.
   

Presenter: Ms. Vania Rodriguez, Director of Human Resources

• Handbook Review and Updates: Presented revisions to the 2026–2027 Parent and Student Handbook, reviewed by YMC for relevant legal and policy updates.
• School Calendar: Updated the handbook to reflect the current school calendar and revisions to student policies and procedures.
• Attendance and Truancy Policy: Revised attendance requirements and interventions, including:
  • Progressive attendance interventions.
  • Attendance recovery options.
  • Short-term independent study.
  • An 18-day course withdrawal policy resulting in no credit.
     
• Student Discipline: Updated suspension and expulsion procedures.
• Student Safety and Reporting: Expanded provisions concerning student safety, professional boundaries, mandated reporting, and related training requirements to align with current law.
• Title IX Coordinator Updates: Revised the list of Title IX coordinators by removing Interim Executive Director Emilie Larew and adding Edgar Ortega. Ms. Rodriguez and Dean Bennett remain listed as Title IX coordinators.
• Additional Revisions: Made other updates throughout the handbook to ensure policies and procedures remain current.
   

Presenter: Ms. Vania Rodriguez, Director of Human Resources

• Purpose of the Waiver: Presented a request to transfer an existing Variable Term Waiver from a teacher’s previous school district to El Camino Real Charter High School.
• Waiver Coverage: The waiver applies to a Certificate of Completion of Staff Development and permits the teacher to work in the classroom while temporarily waiving the English Learner (EL) authorization requirement.
• Employee Status: Clarified that the teacher has already been hired and is in the process of completing the requirements to obtain the necessary EL authorization.
• Transfer of Existing Waiver: Explained that the request is intended only to transfer the current waiver to ECR, rather than initiate an entirely new waiver.
• Purpose and Compliance: The waiver allows the teacher to continue working while completing the required California authorization, helping the school avoid an improper teacher assignment.
• Future Updates: Noted that an additional waiver update may be needed in the future as the employee progresses toward completing the authorization requirements.

Board Meeting Summary – One-Period Coach Authorization for the 2026–2027 School Year

Presenter: Ms. Emilie Larew, Interim Executive Director

• Purpose of Authorization: Presented the annual request for board approval of one-period coach authorizations for teachers who do not hold a Physical Education (PE) credential but meet the requirements established by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
  
   
• Eligibility Requirements: Clarified that eligible individuals must hold a single-subject teaching credential and meet the required coaching qualifications. Special education teachers, counselors, and walk-on coaches are not eligible under this authorization.
  
   
• Designated Teachers and Sports/Courses:
  • Camille King: Cross Country, Track & Field.
  • Eric Choi: Girls Golf, Girls Soccer, Boys Golf.
  • Edgar Ortega: Football.
  • Dean Bennett: Girls Flag Football, Lacrosse.
  • Kevin Thurow: Marching Band.
• Teaching Assignment Authorization: Board approval allows designated teachers to serve as the teachers of record for the specified sports or courses for one period. For example, an English teacher may be assigned as the teacher of record for a soccer class.
• Marching Band Credit: Explained that authorization is required for marching band to receive PE credit rather than Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) credit.
• Changes from Previous Year: Reported that the requested authorizations are generally unchanged from the previous school year, except for the football assignment, now designated to Edgar Ortega.
• Compliance and Documentation: Confirmed that documentation is available showing all listed individuals have met the required first aid, CPR, and other coaching qualifications.
• Board Action: The one-period coach authorization requests were presented for discussion and a vote to approve for the 2026–2027 school year. The provided narrative does not specify the voting outcome.
  
   

Presenter: Ms. Emilie Larew, Interim Executive Director

• Need for Financial Support: The school requires temporary financial consulting services because of limited access to STDO and the need to maintain fiscal operations and prepare financial documents for charter renewal.
• Proposed Consultant: Mrs. Larew identified Mr. Wood, a former Chief Business Officer (CBO) of the school, as a potential consultant due to his experience and familiarity with the school and LAUSD charter renewal process.
• Estimated Cost: The proposed part-time contract was not expected to exceed $50,000, which Mrs. Larew stated would fall within her approval authority.
• Temporary Engagement: The consultant would provide short-term support, potentially through the end of the semester, while the school addresses its immediate financial needs and works toward longer-term staffing solutions.
• Search for Alternatives: Mrs. Larew reported reviewing approximately six potential candidates but had not identified another person with the required availability, on-campus presence, and familiarity with LAUSD’s authorization process.
• Board Concerns: Some board members raised concerns about selecting Mr. Wood, including his prior history with the school and whether alternative candidates had been sufficiently explored.
• Scope and Workload: Board members asked how the consultant’s hours and duration would be determined. Mrs. Larew explained that the engagement would be based on the work required rather than a fixed weekly schedule.
• Financial Continuity: Mrs. Larew emphasized the urgency of securing support to prepare the 2026–2027 budget forecast, address budgetary requirements, and ensure financial documentation is ready for the charter renewal petition.
• CBO Approval Requirement: Mrs. Larew explained that she could prepare budget documents but still needed a CBO to approve certain items, including the Prop 28 budget and the new budget forecast.
• Board Direction: Concerns were raised about pursuing another option and the need for further consideration of the proposed consultant.

Presenter: Ms. Emilie Larew, Interim Executive Director

• Purpose of Agreement: Presented the amended 2026–2027 state SELPA-approved master agreement for the Academy for the Advancement of Children with Autism (AACA).
• State Agreement: Explained that the state provides an annual master agreement for non-public agencies (NPAs) and non-public schools (NPSs) that the school works with.
• Requested Amendments: AACA requested specific updates to the standard agreement to address its program requirements.
• Legal Review: Confirmed that the amended agreement was reviewed by the school’s attorney, who specializes in special education contracts.
• Student Placement: The agreement supports the placement of a student with significant needs that the school is unable to adequately meet on its own campus.
• Board Action: The board was asked to approve the amended agreement for the 2026–2027 school year. The provided narrative does not specify the voting outcome.

Presenter: Ms. Emilie Larew, Interim Executive Director

• Reason for Change: Raised concerns that the previous security company was not adequately meeting the school’s security needs and addressing safety concerns.
• Transition Process: Provided the previous company with the required 30-day notice after consulting legal counsel to ensure a timely transition and avoid gaps in campus security.
• Selection of Code 4: Based on the previously presented Request for Proposal (RFP) scoring rubric, Code 4 ranked second, behind Link Security, followed by Allied in third place.
• Contract Approval: Mrs. Larew selected Code 4 without restarting the RFP process. The contract was reviewed by legal counsel and signed, with the understanding that board ratification was required because the contract exceeded $50,000.
• Campus Safety Priority: Explained that the contract was signed before the board vote to ensure adequate security coverage and avoid delays that could affect campus safety.
• Weapons and Tactical Gear: Confirmed that Code 4 personnel were instructed not to use tactical gear, firearms, or other weapons on campus. Only law enforcement officers are permitted to carry firearms on school grounds.
• Recording Devices: Board members asked about security personnel wearing recording devices. Mrs. Larew stated that expectations had been communicated and that any concerns would be addressed directly with the company.
• Coordination with School Staff: Security personnel will work closely with school leadership, including Mr. Jones, who has returned to his position.
• Safety Department Oversight: Mrs. Larew explained that safety responsibilities had been moved under Mr. Ortega and would be aligned with the Dean’s Office and discipline functions.

The board entered the closed session at 7:29 PM on the 24th of September, 2026.

The board reconvene the open session at 9:02 PM on the 24th of September, 2026.

There were no actions taken during the closed session and therefore nothing to report.