The meeting began with several recognitions. First, the Board presented a Certificate of Appreciation to MUSD Medical Assistance Instructor Kent Weiss, whose stellar teaching led to one of his students saving his father’s life after a recent accident at home. Next, MUSD’s Robotics Team 40471 B for being the Tournament Finalist of the Centennial roBootics SPOOKtacular, qualifying for the CREATE US OPEN in Iowa, and for their work in Sacramento to advocate for STEM education by meeting with Senator Grove and Assemblyman Lackey.
Three students from the team got up to the mic to address the Board, explaining how they spoke to state officials for further state funding for STEM education, citing 1 million dollars in state funds budgeted for school programs that are overlooking vital programs like STEM that could lead to long term job placement. Next, No Kid Hungry representative Daisy Munguia presented this year’s California Hunger Hero Award for innovative and compassionate leadership to Principals James Powell and Dr. Jessica Miller. Lastly, Board members Kerri Condley, Robert Hamilton, and John Cole—who are serving their last days as Trustees—were given recognition for their service.
Classified and Certificated Representatives Mary Dean and Amber Hansen thanked the board for recent positive negotiations with CSEA, and after the public hearing closed without comment, the Board approved a 5% one-time, off schedule bonus for MTA and MUSD management, as well as approval for the reporting for change in compensation for MTA, Management, Supervisory, and Confidential Employees for 2024-25. Superintendent Dr. Vargas spoke on behalf of himself and other assistant superintendents in the district, announcing they have collectively chosen to forgo their own 5% bonus, stating Upper-Level Management’s pay was already equitable to other districts. Vargas said, “This choice underscores our appreciation and the Board’s dedication to supporting fair and sustainable compensation for employees.”
MUSD Robotics Team 4071 B recognized for their outstanding performance and advocacy for STEM education.
John Cole, Robert Hamilton, and Kerri Condley recognized for their service on the Board of Trustees.
