California / School Districts / Benicia Unified
Students from Matthew Turner Elementary presented highlights from STEAM Week and Family STEAM Night, describing hands-on activities and community partnerships; Principal Steven Slater introduced the student presenters.
California / School Districts / Benicia Unified
Superintendent Calabresi outlined $1.7 million in proposed reductions tied to state funding shifts and projected enrollment declines. The board approved certificated staffing reductions after public comment on library, mental-health, and student-support cuts, and pulled classified reductions for more information on March 5.
California / School Districts / Benicia Unified
Director of Student Services John Novick presented the annual comprehensive site and district safety plans, including terminology changes (e.g., lockout→secure perimeter, active shooter→active threat) and limited public inspection of sensitive protocols; the board approved the plans.
California / School Districts / Benicia Unified
Trustees honored classified and certificated educators across schools — principals, teachers, aides and support staff received certificates and small local-business gift awards in a ceremony introduced by Dr. Jennings.
California / School Districts / Benicia Unified
Trustees approved an MOU with the Solano County Office of Education to fund up to four wellness coaches for one year; staff said positions can bill under the California Youth Behavioral Health Initiative and would be supervised by district psychologists, with no additional district cost for the first year.
California / School Districts / Benicia Unified
Superintendent presented proposals to revise facility-use fees, including a preferred-nonprofit list, direct-cost recovery and a pilot called PLAY Benicia that would let nonprofits offset fees by delivering documented student programming; trustees asked for consistent fee rules and legal/MOU review.
California / School Districts / Benicia Unified
District staff warned the governor's 2026 proposal includes possible Prop. 98 "maneuvers" and lower COLA projections; the district projected enrollment falling from 4,405 to 4,216 for 2026–27 and will plan conservatively.
California / School Districts / Benicia Unified
Superintendent Chris Calabresi presented a 100‑day report highlighting district metrics—4,514 students, 563 employees, 95.6% graduation rate—and outlined goals on data‑driven instruction, equity, budget analysis and a new grant committee to coordinate one‑time funding uses.
California / School Districts / Benicia Unified
Benicia Unified trustees approved a refreshed middle‑school logo and brand guidance after a community process; principal said rebranding costs would be minimal and replaced items will be phased out to avoid waste.
California / School Districts / Benicia Unified
The board adopted Resolution No. 25‑26‑26 to decrease particular kinds of certificated services, removing three teachers on special assignment as related one‑time funds expire; the resolution passed by roll call.