Residents press Rialto Unified board for transparency and independent probe amid misconduct allegations

Speakers during a prolonged public‑comment period at the Rialto Unified School District meeting on Thursday alternated between congratulations for newly sworn trustees and pointed accusations calling for outside investigation into the district's handling of personnel matters.

In remarks that drew audible reaction from the audience, a public speaker said there had been "un monto alto de dinero que pagó el superintendente a un miembro de la junta," and urged the board to appoint an independent agency to review alleged conflicts and past procedures. Another commenter, Frank Montes, named a current trustee and described repeated incidents he said reflected poorly on the board’s accountability. "Vergüenza debería darle," Montes said during his turn at the microphone.

Multiple speakers also highlighted student-safety and academic concerns: commenters described bullying incidents they said had been underreported and cited low scores on the state dashboard. One community member said the district has "41 por 100" of schools below the state average on the dashboard and pressed trustees to prioritize rigorous action on safety and instruction.

Board leadership responded in part by urging follow-up and clarification. At least one board member asked that remarks be brought to the record for committee consideration and for staff to provide clarifying information in future agendas. No board action or independent inquiry was launched during the meeting; speakers said they expected further review in coming months.