At its March 5 meeting, the Pacific Grove Unified board reviewed a proposed five-pillar fiscal stability plan that includes a reserve policy target, exploring a parcel tax for the 2026 gubernatorial ballot, creating an education foundation, pursuing grants, and considering district reconfiguration and redistricting. Staff will return with more information and possible community outreach.
The Pacific Grove Unified School District board approved and certified its second interim financial report for 2025-26 on March 5, 2026, receiving a "positive" certification from staff despite a projected $1.6 million combined operating deficit and continuing pressure on some special funds.
After students and community members urged the board to protect Community High School, the Pacific Grove Unified School District board gave staff majority direction to develop staff-recommended reductions (Option A) for FY2026–27 and asked that personnel items be returned as separate action items with additional rationale before the March vote.
Trustees approved Phase 2 of a multiyear Chromebook refresh for Pacific Grove Middle School, citing supply-chain pressures and anticipated price increases. The measure passed with one dissent; trustees also discussed teacher training and how devices fit into broader EdTech goals.
District staff presented two reduction packages to close a projected 2026–27 shortfall, proposing elimination or reclassification of several certificated roles. The proposals drew sustained public comment urging protections for student-facing roles, and trustees requested further district-office staffing analysis before final action.
The Pacific Grove Unified School District board approved a $78 million Measure B master project list and budget directing safety, ADA, HVAC, classroom modernizations and site improvements across six campuses after a detailed presentation and public comment. The list is a living document with contingencies and a multi‑year rollout plan.
Assistant Superintendent for Business reported revenue of $48.6M against projected expenditures of $50.4M for 2025‑26, generating an estimated combined general‑fund and transfers deficit near $2.0M and a projected ending reserve of about 8%. Trustees directed the budget subcommittee to develop long‑term strategies.
Public commenters urged a full‑day 'bell‑to‑bell' cellphone ban at Pacific Grove High School. Trustees approved a set of CSBA policy updates that staff said will restrict personal devices in class and rely on district‑issued Chromebooks for instruction; the board signaled ongoing review and further community engagement.
Principal Greg O'Meara and student representative Hunter Hopkins described the recovery and expansion of Community High School’s garden, highlighting a partnership with Me Earth and volunteer support that has enabled students to install irrigation, build raised beds and incorporate garden work into science curriculum.
At its Dec. 11 meeting the board elected Trustee McNeary as president and Trustee Shamas as vice president/clerk for one‑year terms; the board also appointed Superintendent Adamson as secretary to the board and designated authorized signatories in Resolution 1175.
