Modesto City Schools board holds governance workshop, prioritizes math, student supports and evaluation timeline

Modesto City Schools held a special board governance workshop on Sept. 15, where trustees, led by President Maestas, worked with facilitators from Leadership Associates to review board norms, clarify roles and set near-term priorities for student achievement. The session, open to the public and livestreamed, included exercises to surface trustees’ personal motivations, concerns and top priorities.

The trustees prioritized ‘‘all students’ growth in all subjects,’’ life skills and character development, and engaging K–12 math experiences as the board’s top collective goals. ‘‘Engaging mathematics experiences for all kids, K–12,’’ President Maestas said, describing it as a district priority they will pursue through upcoming curriculum decisions. Superintendent Petrago introduced facilitators Sally Frasier and Juan Garza of Leadership Associates, who led the exercises and reviewed governance best practices.

Trustees used a ‘‘productive paranoia’’ prompt — asking what they should be a little worried about — to surface common concerns: rising divisiveness and fear that undermines students’ sense of belonging; widening resource gaps for newcomers and English learners; and a rise in student mental-health needs. One trustee warned that ‘‘fear is driving the thinking of too many of our children’’ and urged stronger supports and trust-building with families.

Facilitators emphasized the board’s distinct role from the superintendent: the board sets policy and the framework for action while the superintendent manages implementation. The presenters cited research linking superintendent tenure and cohesive governance to district success and urged clarity on boundaries, agenda processes and public communications.

Board members discussed practical rules around external speaking, social media and crisis notification. Trustees and the superintendent agreed that members should be explicit when they speak as private citizens or as district representatives, and that the superintendent should be notified promptly about incidents likely to attract news coverage, involve law enforcement, carry litigation risk, or have major budget implications.

The workshop also reviewed the district’s five strategic goals (aligned with the Local Control and Accountability Plan) that run through 2027 and the superintendent-evaluation timeline. Superintendent Petrago said draft goals (the five district goals plus a professional-growth goal) will be reviewed in one-on-one check-ins next week, with a midyear review scheduled for Feb. 10 and facilitated board reflection set for Feb. 23; a draft evaluation portfolio will be prepared for March and the formal evaluation process will conclude in late spring.

No formal policy votes were taken during the workshop. The meeting concluded with a procedural motion to adjourn moved by Trustee Ervin and seconded by Trustee Marks; members voted aye and the session ended.

The board plans further work on how to translate the workshop priorities into the district’s goals, upcoming curriculum reviews (including materials under the new California math framework) and the superintendent’s 100-day plan and evaluation schedule.