Oakland Unified board adopts organizational resolution; public commenters press for background checks and environmental safeguards

The Oakland Unified School District Board adopted an organizational resolution at its annual meeting that updates committee assignments and the board bylaw designating member compensation, following a legal clarification from general counsel about Education Code changes.

General Counsel Lindsay told the board that a change to Education Code section 35120, and Assembly Bill 1390, adjust board-member compensation and that districts may offer the option to donate compensation. Lindsay said the office will assist with next steps and ensure compliance with the Political Reform Act.

During the discussion the clerk noted two changes to the published packet: chair assignments for the 2026 term and adding the newly elected president as a bank account signatory. Director Berry asked that ad hoc committee schedules (not already published) be established and pushed for shared leadership and delegation where appropriate.

Public commenters raised several concerns tied to the resolution and the district's facilities work. Staff announced an in-room commenter identified as Asada Olukuala, who said the district was failing to follow legal requirements, including required volunteer background checks, and alleged lead contamination and hazardous-waste exposure in district facilities. The commenter also criticized demolition and feasibility planning for certain buildings and said they would continue to raise these issues at future meetings. The board did not take immediate policy action on those specific safety claims during this meeting.

The clerk called the roll and the motion to adopt the resolution passed on the recorded roll call; the transcript records affirmative votes from present directors and the clerk declared the motion adopted. The president then adjourned the meeting.