Development News for Orange, California

Raptor Visitor Management System Contract Renewed to Enhance School Safety

The board considered and approved the renewal of the Raptor visitor management system contract. Trustee P. clarified that this system is used at all school sites where children are present to enhance safety by conducting quick background checks on visitors via ID scanning and issuing visitor stickers. It also aids in emergency situations by tracking who is in a building. The system renewal includes provisions for training new and existing staff, with a handbook and ongoing reminders being developed. The cost of consumables like paper stickers is budgeted at the school site level. The system's use is expected to be common practice, replacing physical sign-in sheets where feasible, although schools may adapt for large events like promotions or assemblies. The renewal was approved.

Public Review Period Opens for New IB Biology and Construction Pathway Textbooks

The board approved opening a 30-day public review period for newly selected instructional materials for two programs: IB Biology for the IB Diploma Program HL at Canyon High School and the Building Industry Technology Academy (BITA) for the residential and construction pathway at El Medina High School. The IB Biology materials, 'Biology for the IB Diploma Program HL' and 'IB Biology Diploma Program Third Edition,' were chosen for their alignment with the IB curriculum, depth, rigor, and support for student independence. The BITA curriculum, recognized for its connection to industry standards, offers hands-on learning in construction, building trades, architecture, and engineering, culminating in students building a tiny home for families in need. These CTE courses are UC and CSU approved, preparing students for both college and career. The public review period is a required step before final adoption.

Board to Develop Policy on Presenting Legal Expenses Amid $1.6 Million Contractor Lawsuit Costs

During the discussion of consent item 110, concerning legal expenses for two ongoing contractor lawsuits, a public commenter raised concerns about the escalating costs, which had reached $1.6 million. The commenter requested that the item be pulled from consent for further explanation. Superintendent Manares explained that the costs are associated with the district's defense against allegations by a contractor claiming the district caused delays in a building project, which the district disputes. The litigation began in 2020 and is now at the trial stage, with the firm Talini representing the district. Due to attorney-client privilege and the active trial stages, specific details regarding billing and costs cannot be disclosed. Trustee P. suggested the development of a board policy and administrative regulation to address how such matters are presented to the public in the future, aiming for greater transparency without jeopardizing legal strategies. The board agreed to work on drafting a proposal for a board policy on this matter, with a first read anticipated in September.

Dr. Jacqueline Perez Chavez Appointed Deputy Superintendent of Business Operations and Strategy

The Board of Education announced the appointment of Dr. Jacqueline Perez Chavez to the position of Deputy Superintendent of Business Operations and Strategy. The vote to approve this appointment was unanimous. This strategic move aims to streamline the leadership structure under a single deputy superintendent to provide consistency for the district, leveraging Dr. Perez Chavez's extensive experience in prek-12 education, including her background as a high school principal and 13 years of executive district leadership. The contract amendment, effective July 1st, 2026, advances her to Range 217 on the salary schedule, with an annual salary payable consistent with other certificated leadership employees. She is also eligible for a yearly stipend for her doctorate and 24 days of annual vacation pay. The board also noted that the contract amendment would include two additional lines for board signatures before finalization.