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District leaders, unions tell Monterey County board Navigator petition risks 'profound' fiscal harm
Summary
Superintendents, union leaders and classroom teachers urged the board to deny the countywide charter petition, arguing it duplicates local programs and could drain millions from small districts; one witness estimated a potential $8.8 million annual loss tied to 600 Salinas enrollees.
A large coalition of local superintendents, union officials and classroom educators testified in opposition to Navigator Schools' countywide petition, repeatedly warning of fiscal harm and program duplication. Dr. Verrica Andrade, identified in her remarks as representing the Salinas City Elementary School District, told the board the petition "raises serious concerns regarding community need, fiscal harm, and equitable access" and said the petition anticipates enrollment up to 600 students from Salinas with an "estimated annual loss of approximately 8,800,000 annually."
Multiple speakers echoed that districts already offer dual immersion, STEAM, extended-learning and wraparound services and said the countywide model lacks clear transportation and facility plans. Oscar Ramos, a Salinas teacher and union leader, said the petition "does not have anything new to offer" and raised concerns about transparency and partnerships. Union leaders, including the Monterey Bay Central Labor Council and local teachers' associations, urged the board to deny the petition or to require substantial clarifications and community engagement before any approval.
