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Board approves prekindergarten certification framework; parent raises concern about Eagan wait list
Summary
Trustees unanimously approved a Prekindergarten Certificate of Compliance that defines three pathways for TK teacher qualifications. During public comment, Demetria Bell urged clearer communication and equitable handling for a wait list at Egan school.
The Los Altos School District Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve a Prekindergarten Certificate of Compliance intended to document and verify that teachers meet state-aligned requirements to teach transitional kindergarten (TK).
What the certificate covers: Staff explained the certificate establishes three pathways by which teachers may demonstrate the knowledge and experience required for TK: 24 units of early childhood education coursework; an identified TK credential pathway; or documented experience with preschool-age children under criteria the district will define. The certificate is a local compliance document that the district will use to verify staff meet the state's expectations for TK instruction.
Board action: Trustee Vladimir moved and Trustee Stella seconded the motion to approve the certificate. The motion passed unanimously.
Public comment and equity question: During the community-comment period, Demetria Bell, a parent and public commenter, followed up on a prior remark about her child on a wait list for Egan and said she had not received further communication. She asked the board to clearly explain how the district will handle wait lists and to “resolve this equitably,” adding she was frustrated that some non-LASD children who registered later were on a wait list ahead of her child. "I do urge the board to clearly communicate how this is gonna be handled and how you plan to resolve this equitably," Demetria Bell said.
Staff response and next steps: At the meeting staff invited further follow-up with the parent; the certificate item itself concerns teacher qualifications and does not change the district’s enrollment or wait-list policy. Trustees took the certificate as an action item to document compliance with TK teacher requirements and did not adopt new enrollment rules at the meeting.
Ending: The board approved the compliance certificate and staff indicated they will continue communicating with families about enrollment processes as appropriate.
