Seniors press Central Unified to change valedictorian policy this year

Multiple seniors told the Central Unified Board of Trustees on Jan. 13 they want the district to act quickly to change the valedictorian policy so the current senior class can be recognized this year.

"I would like to see the valedictorian policy change with the exception of students obtaining C's and a 4 GPA," said Maj, a senior at Justin Garza High School, speaking during the in-person public comment period. Angel, another senior, told trustees the change must happen "fast" because there are only about 12 weeks left in the school year.

Reese Baldwin, a senior who called in by phone, said many students have worked to maintain a 4.0 GPA and deserve recognition "for this year." Student Trustee remarks earlier in the meeting echoed mounting student interest in revising the policy.

Board members did not take action on the request during public comment; the president reminded attendees that the Brown Act restricts board action on items not agendized. Trustees suggested the policy committee or a future agendized meeting as the appropriate venue for formal consideration.

Next steps: the question will likely be referred to the board's policy committee or returned as an agendized item so the board can deliberate and, if desired, take action in compliance with open-meeting rules.