GALT, CA (MPG) - The Galt Joint Union High School District Board of Trustees moved briskly through a wide-ranging agenda Feb. 19, celebrating student achievements, reviewing midyear academic progress and approving budget reductions for the coming years.

A notable moment came during discussion of updated board protocols, when trustee Dennis Richardson publicly apologized for remarks made at the previous meeting.

“I kind of lost my temper and I shouldn’t have done that,” he said. “I said some things, I used words that were inappropriate and offensive to people, and I apologize for that.”

Richardson said that after reflection, a previously proposed protocol change was unnecessary and he thanked district leadership for revising the language.

The board unanimously approved the updated protocols, which the revision reaffirmed that all board members will comply with the Brown Act, the state law requiring public bodies to conduct meetings openly with advance notice and agendas.

Campus Updates

The meeting opened with principal and student reports after a brief agenda adjustment to accommodate playoff games later in the evening. Director of Galt Adult School Josef Schallberger recognized two recent graduates, Alfredo Herrera, who enrolled in 2024, and Ashley Wentzloff, who enrolled in December 2025.

Student board representatives reported a busy month across campuses. Liberty Ranch High School highlighted its FFA chapter’s annual Crab Feed, strong performances at agricultural field days and preparations for National FFA Week, including an upcoming rally themed “Battle at the Fairground.” Athletic teams also saw success, with boys’ and girls’ basketball and soccer advancing to the playoffs.

Galt High School reported progress with its Safe School Ambassador class, visits from Job Corps representatives and mock interviews for students. The student board representative added that qualifying students will attend a Sacramento Kings game in March as a reward for attendance and positive behavior.

At Estrellita High School, staff celebrated the school’s hydroponics program, which recently completed its second and third harvests of bok choy, butter lettuce, romaine, cilantro and basil. The produce was shared with students and staff.

Safety and Potential Bond Measure Update

Superintendent Anna Trunnell provided updates on safety initiatives and potential bond funding. She said the “Every 15 Minutes” safety program, a two-day initiative focused on drunk driving prevention for juniors and seniors, will not be held this year and was intended to be at Liberty Ranch. Instead, the school will conduct active shooter training. 

Trunnell also said the district is working with consultants to finalize polling for a potential bond measure, with results expected at the March 19 board meeting. Work has also begun on an updated facilities master plan.

Midyear LCAP Report Shows Gains

Director of Educational Services Linda DeWilde presented the district’s midyear update on its Local Control and Accountability Plan. The multiyear plan outlines goals, actions and services funded primarily through Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) dollars. The district’s total LCFF allocation is approximately $27.3 million, including about $2.6 million in supplemental and concentration grants.

District leaders reported improvements in several areas, including increased English learner reclassification rates, gains in English language arts and math, higher attendance and a reduction in chronic absenteeism. Estrellita High School showed a 25% increase in its graduation rate along with gains on the College and Career Indicator.

Trustees also followed up on an after-school math tutoring program for migrant students supported through special funding. Trunnell confirmed that expanded tutoring began the week of Feb. 16, with transportation and supper provided.

Budget Reductions

Facing projected structural deficits in the 2026-27 and 2027-28 fiscal years, the board approved about $834,000 in budget reductions. The plan focuses on central office reorganization, a 10% reduction in unrestricted department budgets and elimination of some operations. District officials said no layoffs are required under the plan, though the board also approved resolutions to begin processes related to potential reductions in classified and certificated services due to lack of work or funds.

The meeting concluded with a superintendent’s report highlighting successful open houses, collaboration with the city and the elementary school district and continued implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports across campuses.

The next regular meeting of the board is scheduled for March 19 at Galt City Hall, 380 Civic Drive.