District reports hires, fewer combo classes and supports for TK during staffing update

District HR leaders told the board on Sept. 10 that extensive summer recruitment and placement reduced the number of combination classes and filled vacancies ahead of the school year.

Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Dina Mellon, with HR directors Tammy Ledesma and Natalia Gonzalez, said certificated recruitment included 122 recruitments, 55 interview panels, 76 new certificated hires and six internal promotions. Classified recruitments included 41 recruitments, 36 interview panels, 50 external hires and 22 internal promotions. The presenters also outlined the transfer and reassignment process tied to contract windows and explained how class‑size corrections are handled within the first 15 instructional days.

HR reported that seven classes were closed this year (two TK, three kindergarten, two combined 5/6 combos) and seven were opened; overall the district now has 33 combination classes compared with 64 at the same time last year. HR described supports for unexpected TK enrollment — placing substitutes and contractors to provide extra in-class support and using TKIAs to maintain ratios during the first two weeks.

Trustees asked clarifying questions about how overflow is handled and supports for teachers. HR said pupil services contacts parents to find alternate placements when necessary and the district prioritizes opening classes where feasible.

What’s next: HR will continue daily monitoring of vacancies and staffing ratios, and staff said a finalized 2026–27 calendar is expected to come to the board for first reading in November and action in December.