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Trustees seek options to mark Diwali under new state law and discuss meeting security after a tense Malibu session
Summary
Board members asked staff to explore marking Diwali in schools following a new state law and discussed enhancing meeting security after a previous Malibu meeting where members felt unsafe; local officials indicated willingness to assist with security arrangements.
Board member Richard asked staff to evaluate the recently signed state law that permits schools to mark Diwali beginning next academic year, noting that the request fits with the board's broader anti-hate and inclusion work. "This new law allows public schools to mark Diwali... perhaps we put our toe in the water and do that," he said, and several trustees agreed to ask staff and the calendar committee to report back.
Later in the meeting Richard said he felt unsafe at a prior public meeting in Malibu and requested the board consider security at meetings in both Malibu and Santa Monica. Board members discussed coordination with the mayor of Malibu and local law enforcement; Dr. Shelton and administrative staff reported that outreach had already begun and said staff would return with options. Trustees weighed the costs and the need for clear protocols, with particular attention to who would make on-site security decisions when multiple agencies or hosts are involved.
The board also echoed support for activities that celebrate cultural holidays and committed to returning with options and information from the calendar committee.
