Board hears public comment on special education, recognizes unified athletes and introduces assistant superintendent

The board heard a virtual public comment from Mary Nolan, co-chair of the Albany Special Education Parent Advisory Council (CPAC). Nolan described CPAC's plan to highlight the district’s approximately 11% of students served by individualized education programs, explained common categories such as specific learning disabilities, and said CPAC will present on speech and language impairment at a future meeting. "We look forward to presenting about speech and language impairment at the next board meeting," Nolan said.

Earlier in the meeting the board and district staff recognized Albany High School’s unified bocce team for winning the division championship. Elaine Grisler, director of special education, and Coach Alicia Lisonbee credited staff, parent and community partners — including the Italian American Community Center — for supporting the program.

The board also introduced Lynn Rutnick as the district’s new assistant superintendent for secondary instruction. Rutnick thanked the board and cabinet and said she is "deeply grateful for this opportunity to return home and to help advance the shared vision of the board and the superintendent." No formal appointment vote was recorded during the meeting; Rutnick addressed the board after being introduced.

These items were part of broader "district highlights" updates that included student-voice initiatives, presentations from principals, and recognition of staff and student achievements.