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Alternative education students and staff highlighted; restorative program and career readiness efforts presented
Summary
The board heard a presentation recognizing alternative education accomplishments, a campus program focused on identity and purpose, and community partner programs supporting youth development.
The board received a presentation recognizing achievements at the district’s alternative education site and heard classroom‑level programs aimed at student engagement and career preparation.
Liliana Esquivez, principal of the district’s alternative education program, told trustees the site met the Local Control and Accountability Plan goal on reducing suspensions (a reported 9.5% reduction) and won an award for most‑improved facilities. Esquivez said 11 students graduated from Westside this year and several students returned to traditional campuses. She credited site facilities improvements — including a new basketball court and mini golf area — and added that a full‑time learning director on campus has supported increased student engagement and events like FAFSA workshops.
Everett Marr, campus supervisor at Westside who goes by “Birdie,” described a program titled “What is your tomorrow?” built on four pillars — identity, purpose, character and aura — intended to build students’ confidence and employability skills through short, focused sessions. Marr emphasized accountability and staff modeling as core elements of the work.
Sergio Lara, representing La Familia Central Valley and alternative education as a community partner, outlined a 12‑week program he helped run that focused on rites of passage and developing positive values and “palabra” (credible word) among participants. Student speakers, including Gabriel from Westside, shared positive experiences and staff support that contributed to improved attendance and course completion.
