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Public commenters urge action on student nutrition, book distribution and restroom access
Summary
During public comment speakers told the board that student-athletes are skipping meals after late-start schedules, requested school access for a children's book project, and raised concerns about restricted restroom access on campus.
At the Aug. 5 San Bernardino City Unified School District board meeting, multiple public commenters urged the district to address student well‑being and community programs.
Mickey Alexander told the board that student-athletes are frequently missing meals under the district’s late‑start schedule and urged the board to “take a look at the program overall.” Alexander said athletes often practice soon after school and “if you have a student athlete, ask your child. I guarantee you 85% are going to say, ‘You know what? No, I don't eat.’” Board staff acknowledged there is a planned follow-up meeting with community members and district staff to examine meal timing and athletic schedules.
Francine March described the Inland Empire Children’s Book Project, which she said distributed more than 20,000 books last year and visited 31 schools. March asked the board to help facilitate district access for the volunteer program and said communications from district staff had already helped their outreach.
A parent who identified herself as Karolina Isumi (speaking in Spanish) said her daughters at San Marino High School had at times been denied restroom access; she asked the board to review the practice and find a solution because of health concerns. The superintendent said he would look into the matter and contact her.
Tony Plana, an arts-program speaker, promoted local performances and said arts education increases student engagement. Robera Figuro, speaking for San Andreas High staff, read a staff letter opposing a proposed renaming of San Andreas High School and outlined potential costs and operational impacts of a full renaming.
Speakers from the San Bernardino Teachers Association and other community groups offered welcome‑back remarks and described school partnerships and support services. The board did not vote on policy changes during public comment, but members and staff pledged follow-up meetings on nutrition scheduling, school access for volunteers and restroom access concerns.
