Monthly Updates: CVUSD's Advisory Councils/Committees

District Advisory Council (DAC)

Here are the key takeaways from our most recent DELAC meeting of the school year, which was held on Tuesday, May 26th: 

1. Nick Guerin, Career Technical Education Coordinator at Newbury Park High School, presented the wide range of Career Technical Education opportunities available to CVUSD students at both the middle and high school levels. Programs highlighted included Construction Technology, Robotics courses, Future Educators pathways, and many other career-focused options.
    
2. Susie Stanziano, Multilingual Learners Program Specialist, presented information on the CVUSD reclassification process and the California state requirements for multilingual learners.
    
3. Ms. Stanziano also shared practical tips and strategies for parents to support their students’ language development and help them achieve greater academic success.
    
4. Ana Alvarez, Outreach Coordinator, presented on the variety of services provided by the Outreach team to support students and families. The Outreach team serves as an important bridge connecting schools and families.
    
5. Our DELAC Board members were recognized and celebrated for their outstanding volunteer service and continued dedication to supporting students, families, and the community. Our next meeting is scheduled for September 29, 2026.

We will gather for our next DELAC Meeting on September 29, 2026!
Please click here to visit the DELAC website and learn more about us.
 

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2024-2025 School Year Updates

Here are the key takeaways from our most recent DELAC meeting of the school year, which was held on Tuesday, May 27th:

1. Mr. Michael Whitehead, librarian from the Thousand Oaks library, presented information about the different services the library has available for students and families during the summer break and throughout the year. Some of the digital resources include Brainfuse Help Now, libby, Mango, and Bookflix.
2. Dr. Ricardo Araiza, Director of Multilingual Learners, shared a presentation regarding the English Language Development (ELD) pilot process.  Questions were answered regarding the pilot.
3. DELAC's Executive Board was recognized for their time, commitment and contribution over the last two years (see picture below).

Here are the key takeaways from our DELAC meeting held on Tuesday, April 29th:

1. Mr. Kenny Loo, Assistant Superintendent of Instructional and Student Support Services, presented information about the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) and the School Plan for Student Achievement (SPSA). DELAC members met by grade level goups and shared their experiences on how they have been involved with the LCAP and SPSA at their site. 
2. DELAC elections were held for the upcoming 25-26 DELAC Executive Board.  The Nominating Committee oversaw the election process.  DELAC would like to congratulate the following members who were nominated and elected by their peers: Lucely Duarte - President; Adriana Ruiz - Vice-President; Christian Carolina Loza - Secretary, Johana Rogel - Parlamentarian.
3. The next and last DELAC meeting of the year is scheduled for Tuesday, May 27th from 10 am to 12 noon.

Here are the key takeaways from our  DELAC meeting held on Tuesday, March 25th:

1. The Outreach Assistant Team, Bilingual Facilitator at Aspen and Social Worker at Newbury Park High School presented information on the different strategies that have worked to increase ELAC attendance.  After the presentation, the DELAC representatives joined a table to learn from the experts and discuss next steps.
2. Dr. Araiza presented information about the Needs Assessment survey that will be sent to families in early May.  The DELAC representatives provided feedback on the types of questions being asked.
3. Information was shared about the upcoming DELAC elections.  A standing committee will be formed to monitor the election process.  DELAC elections will be held at the April 29th DELAC meeting.

Here are the key takeaways from our DELAC meeting held on Tuesday, February 25th:

1. The Director of Student Support Services, Ms. Christina Harrison, shared a presentation titled "Response to Immigration Enforcement: Protecting Students and Supporting Families." A question and answer session was held after the presentation.
2. The Thousand Oaks Library representative, Mayra Diaz, shared a presentation about the additional services and products they offer to the community.  A question and answer session was held after the presentation.

Here are the key takeaways from our DELAC meeting held on Tuesday, January 21st:

1. The principal from Conejo Elementary shared a presentation about the Dual Language Immersion program.
2. Dr. Dena Sellers presented information about the different options for enrollment for all CVUSD schools.
3. Ms. Icela Sabory presented information about the college and career options students have during their K-12 academic experience.

Here are the key takeaways from our third DELAC meeting of the school year, which was held on Tuesday, November 19th:

1. The instructional directors presented information on the current CVUSD grading practices.  There was an opportunity for small group interaction on specific topics related to grading.
2. Information was presented on the English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC) as well as the current reclassification process for Multilingual Learners.
3. There was a committee brainstorm and discussion on the current use of cell phones at home, in the classroom and districtwide.  The collected information from the committee members will be shared with the CVUSD Board of Education.

Here are the key takeaways from our second DELAC meeting of the school year, which was held on Tuesday, October 22nd:

1. The Student Support Services Department presented information on the current attendance updates and trends. CVUSD has continued to focus on increasing attendance as this impacts student achievement.
2. The Thousand Oaks City Library shared information about the different services it provides to the community. Several questions were asked about how to apply for a library card and the type of tutoring services the library provides.
3. The Community Outreach Specialist and her team presented information on the different ways our parents can get involved. Some of these opportunities include taking English classes and attending site-specific meetings and events.
4. DELAC selected Christian Carolina Loza as the new Vice-President as this position was vacant.

Here are three key takeaways from our first DELAC meeting of the school year, which was held on Tuesday, September 24th: 

1. Training was provided to all DELAC members regarding DELAC requirements.
2. Information was shared about the Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELO-P).
3. The Needs Assessment results and next steps were shared with all DELAC members.

 

Here are five key takeaways from our most recent GATE-DAC Meeting, the final meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Friday, May 15th:

1. The following Executive Board was elected for the 2026-27 school year: Chair - Alia Matthews,  Vice Chair - Christine Wells, Parliamentarian - Erika Dahle Petras,  Secretary - Kanela Artavia,  Member at Large 1 - Kristie Ashworth, and  Member at Large 2 - Sarah Rosas.
    
2. Representatives from each of the elementary and secondary schools present discussed the GATE programs and activities that are happening during the end of this year and/or presented plans that are being made for programming during the 2026-27 school year.
    
3. A report was given from the GATE Teacher on Special Assignment, Stefanie Caswell, summarizing the ACES  activities that were done at the elementary and secondary levels during this school year including the types of activities and level of participation by students. This information will be considered when planning activities for next year. 
    
4. There was a discussion about the various speaker series and other programs that are available to the public through TO Arts, as many of these events are applicable to the GATE community, as well as to the general public. 
    
5. Gratitude was expressed to all representatives and administration for their service to the GATE program. Have a great summer!

We will gather for our next GATE-DAC Meeting when the 2026-2027 school year begins!
Please click here to visit the GATE-DAC webpage and learn more about us.
 

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Previous Meeting Updates (2025-2026 School Year)

Here are five key takeaways from our most recent GATE-DAC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Friday, March 27th:

1. Differentiation in the Classroom presentation.
2. Breakout discussions regarding what we would like to see in the classroom regarding differentiated learning.
3. Reviewed the roles and responsibilities of the school site GATE facilitators.
4. Nominating Committee presented the slate of nominees. Voting will occur at the May 15th meeting.
5. Discussed GATE activities that have occurred recently such as Science Fair and Invention Convention and future events for the remainder of the year.

Here are five key takeaways from our fourtht GATE-DAC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Friday, February 6th:

1. SSC and SPSA presentation was given by Shane Frank, Director of Middle School Education.
2. Members discussed creative fundraising.
3. Members discussed no-cost activities.
4. Identified the Nominating Committee.
5. Stefanie Caswell shared update on newly identified GATE students and upcoming GATE events

Here are five key takeaways from our third GATE-DAC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Friday, December 5th:

1. GATE-DAC school site representatives broke into elementary and secondary groups to discuss priorities for the year and ideas for future meetings. The committee plans to have more speakers on topics ranging from fundraising for GATE programs to increasing awareness of community resources. 
2. The committee discussed ideas about how they can more effectively advocate for GATE students to the district.
3. Discussed ideas for outreach to increase parent involvement in GATE at their various sites and at the district level.
4. Changes made to the way GATE students are identified in CVUSD: Naglieri General Ability Test (NGAT) for Universal Screening at the end of 2nd grade and intermediate referrals for students in 3rd - 5th grades. Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT) for secondary referrals for students in 6th - 11th grades. GATE Referral Screening Dates.
5. District “After Class Enrichment Series” (ACES) listed on GATE homepage.
    

Here are five key takeaways from our second GATE-DAC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Friday, October 17th:

1. Interested in receiving the Tri-County GATE Council monthly email? Subscribe to their mailing list and receive regular email updates regarding community information, outreach, and resources.
2. Advocate for GATE funds in your campus SPSA.
3. Interest in having an SEL component to GATE activities and meetings.
4. Discussed how valuable it is to see what community resources are available. Looking to increase access/involvement with community mentors across all grade levels. 
5. GATE “After Class Enrichment Series” (ACES) activities and other community events are posted on the GATE homepage.

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Here are five key takeaways from our first GATE-DAC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Friday, September 5th:

1. GATE-DAC reps reviewed the By-Laws, Standing Rules, and GATE-DAC Representative Information Packet. 
2. “GATE-DAC Public” shared/collaborative resource folder was shared with site representatives.
3. GATE-TOSA shared digital resources available on the GATE webpage – Articles and Resources and Enrichment/Extension Resources.
4. Site designated GATE-DAC parent reps and GATE teacher facilitators are encouraged to collaborate about enrichment opportunities specific to their sites. GATE-DAC parent reps are invited to join the last half of our first GATE teacher facilitator meeting of the year on September 24, 2025 from 4:15 - 4:45 in the University Center MPR.
5. GATE-DAC reps are encouraged to brainstorm ideas for future meetings topics and goals for the year to discuss in our next meeting on Friday, October 17th.

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2024-2025 School Year Updates

Here are five key takeaways from our GATE-DAC Meeting, which was held on Friday, May 9th:

1. The GATE-DAC executive board for the 2025-2026 school year has been elected.
   Chair: Christine Wells
   Vice Chair: Erika Petras
   Secretary: Kanela Artavia
   Parliamentarian:  Ali Matthews
2. Christina Harrison gave a presentation on bullying and harassment and discussed CVUSD’s policies and procedures.
3. Each of the members present stated what she would like to see as priorities for GATE-DAC next year. 
4. Stefanie Caswell will continue as GATE TOSA next year!
5. There was a discussion of resources for summer fun and learning available on the Summer Learning Tab of the GATE Enrichment/Extension Resources page. 

Here are five key takeaways from our GATE-DAC Meeting, which was held on Friday, March 21st:

1. A wonderful presentation was given by Dr. Jayna Suter regarding grade transitions and math pathways for students in grades 6-12. The pathways for math, English, science, and social science can be found at https://www.conejousd.org/cms/lib/CA50010930/Centricity/Domain/1466/pathways.html.
2. Christina Harrison presented requirements for school-sponsored activities, including links to forms that are often needed when the activity is off-campus.
3. A nominating committee was formed to identify nominees for the upcoming executive board election that will be held during our May meeting.
4. We are seeking GATE-DAC representatives for each campus for next year. Please consider volunteering!
5. Universal GATE screening for students in second grade will be from March 26 through April 30. Parents will be notified by mail in May or June.

Here are five key takeaways from our GATE-DAC Meeting, which was held on Friday, February 7th:

1. Volunteers are needed for the nominating committee for the GATE-DAC executive board. If you would like to be on the nominating committee, or if you would like to volunteer for a position on the executive board, please let Christine Wells or Rachael Brusseau know. 
2. Although it is early February, it is time to start thinking about summer programs. Conejo Schools Foundation (CSF) is offering its Get Ahead summer program for students entering or already in high school. Please see https://www.conejoschools.org/programs-initiatives/get-ahead-program/ for more information. For those students in grades 1 through 5, CSF is offering their Summer Academy. Please see https://www.conejoschools.org/summer-academy/ for more information.
3. Stefanie Caswell just finished GATE testing. Results will be mailed to families soon.
4. The process of referring students for GATE testing was discussed. The process for referring students for GATE testing can be found at the bottom of the GATE webpage under the heading “Learn More About GATE”. If you are interested in referring your student for GATE testing, please look under the drop-down menu or click: “4th  - 12th Grade Parent Referral (English)”.
5. Sharon Schram gave an inspiring presentation on parent advocacy.

Here are five key takeaways from our third GATE-DAC Meeting of the school year, which was held on Friday, December 13th:

1. The council viewed the DAC Handbook video and reviewed the DAC Handbook located on the Parent Participation page of the CVUSD website. 
2. Breakout groups discussed school site enrichment and extension activities for GATE students. 
3. Council discussed providing equitable opportunities for students in the GATE program at all sites.  
4. Council would like to encourage collaboration between elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools. 
5. Council will continue to focus on improving communication.

Here are five key takeaways from our second GATE-DAC Meeting of the school year, which was held on Friday, November 8th:

1. GATE Teacher on Special Assignment reviewed the GATE resources available on the shared Google Drive. 
2. Members were encouraged to add activities and ideas to the shared collaboration folder with the GATE Activities Google folder. 
3. GATE-DAC representatives are still needed for some school sites. 
4. The District, principals, and teachers are working on differentiation within the classroom. 
5. All CVUSD teachers can access the GATE library and check out materials through Stefanie Caswell. 

Here are five key takeaways from our first GATE-DAC Meeting, which was held on Friday, September 13th:

1. Our Advisory Council discussed their vision for Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) for the 2024-2025 school year. Parents expressed concern about GATE differentiation within the school day. Teacher training and GATE certification were discussed. 
2. GATE-DAC parents and facilitators are encouraged to collaborate about enrichment opportunities specific to their sites.
3. GATE-DAC had a robust discussion about communications between advisory councils and CVUSD. Concerns were raised about how their advice and feedback is shared.
4. Mrs. Caswell, GATE Teacher on Special Assignment, invited all students identified as GATE to fill out the After Class Enrichment Series (ACE) Interest Form.
5. On September 6th, Mrs. Caswell met with parents of newly identified GATE students. Her presentation can be viewed here.

Here are the key takeaways from our most recent LGBTQ+AC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Wednesday, May 13th:

1. The LGBTQ Advisory Council Toolkit has been completed and will be added to our advisory council page on the district website. You can find our webpage here: LGBTQ+ Advisory Council
    
2.  Executive Board elections were held, and all positions were filled for the 2026-2027 school year.
    
3. We are seeking new and returning school site reps. Please talk to your school site principal if you are interested.
    
4. Breakout discussions were held to brainstorm advisory council goals for the 2026-2027 school year.

We will gather for the next LGBTQ+AC meeting during the 2026-2027 school year!
Please click here to visit the LGBTQ+AC webpage and learn more about us.
 

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Previous Meeting Updates (2025-2026 School Year)

Here are the key takeaways from the LGBTQ+AC Meeting held on Wednesday, February 11th:

1. The 2026 Nomination Committee was formed in preparation for the election of the 2026-2027 Executive Board in May.
2.  The Advisory Council Subcommittees gave their reports. The Elementary Subcommittee is preparing activities for school sites to use during Pride Month. These will also be included as activity options in the Toolkit.  The Curriculum Subcommittee received and shared an update from Mr. Kenny Loo about the Human Growth and Development videos. The Toolkit Subcommittee shared that they continue to work on an updated draft of the LGBTQ+ Advisory Council Toolkit, which will be shared at the next meeting in March.
3. The first LGBTQ+ Advisory Council Community Social event was a huge success! Over 50 students, parents, board members, and administrators attended. The AC wants to thank Thousand Oaks DJ Company and Conejo Schools Foundation for helping us put on an amazing event.

Here are the key takeaways from our third LGBTQ+AC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Wednesday, December 10th:

1. Staff provided updates on state and federal laws affecting LGBTQ+ students.
2.  Breakout discussions were held by grade level to discuss Pride Month activities.
3. Subcommittee reports were provided from the four current subcommittees (Elementary, Secondary, Curriculum, and Toolkit). A new subcommittee was formed to plan the Advisory Council community event scheduled for February.

4. The February 11 Advisory Council meeting will be held in the evening to allow us to host a community social event following an abbreviated council meeting.  We welcome families and students to join us for this evening's gathering. The event will be held at the University Center. More details to come.

Here are the key takeaways from our second LGBTQ+AC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Wednesday, October 29th:

1. A panel discussion was held with high school GSA student representatives.
2. Dr. Sellers and Christina Harrison provided an update regarding the letter to Dr. McLaughlin and district staff regarding the Human Growth and Development curriculum. (LGBTQ AC Letter to CVUSD Regarding Health Curriculum).
3. The representatives discussed hosting a community event for the February meeting.

Here are the key takeaways from our first LGBTQ+AC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Wednesday, September 10th:

1. Members reviewed the Advisory Council Representative Information Packet.
2. The advisory council introduced and discussed its four subcommittees (Elementary Schools, Secondary Schools, Curriculum, and Toolkit) and the need for new members to serve on those subcommittees. Any interested parents/guardians/caregivers can participate in the subcommittees, whether or not they are their site's representative to the council. If you are interested, please respond to laderastarslgtbqdac@gmail.com. Subcommittees meet online for approximately one hour monthly. 
3. Mr. Kenneth Loo and Ms. Christina Harrison reviewed the mandatory annual staff training and certificated staff training modules relevant to supporting LGTBQ+ students in CVUSD. 

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2024-2025 School Year Updates

 

Here are four key takeaways from our most recent LGBTQ+ AC meeting of the school year, which was held on Wednesday, April 9th:

1. A Nomination Committee was created in anticipation of Executive Board Elections in May. They will prepare the nomination slate. 
2. A GSA student discussion panel was held. 
3. An LGBTQ+ Advisory Council Toolkit is being drafted. The Toolkit Committee will continue to elicit feedback from advisory council members regarding this.
4. The final LGBTQ Advisory Council meeting will be May 28. Attendance is vital to be able to hold elections for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Here are four key takeaways from our fourth LGBTQ+ AC meeting of the school year, which was held on Wednesday, February 26th:

1. Public comment from Horizon Hills Parenting Program regarding "Affirming Your LGTBQ Youth Course - A Parenting Strategy" course being offered in March. 
2. Presentation about the Supporting Inclusive Practices Grant was provided. 
3. The council adopted a letter to Dr. McLaughlin and district staff regarding the Human Growth and Development curriculum. 
4. Elementary, Secondary, and Toolkit subcommittees continue to meet. Please reach out if you are interested in joining a subcommittee - advisory council membership is not required.

Here are four key takeaways from our third LGBTQ+ AC meeting of the school year, which was held on Wednesday, December 11th:

1. The Curriculum Subcommittee presented Human Growth and Development Videos for 4th-6th grade.
2. The Curriculum Subcommittee shared a letter written to the superintendent and district staff recommending the updating of the Human Growth and Development curriculum to the advisory council for feedback.
3. The Elementary Subcommittee distributed a list of suggested books for elementary principals and IMTs.
4. District staff reminded the advisory council about ways to report harassment, including We Tip.

Here are three key takeaways from our second LGBTQ+ AC meeting of the school year, which was held on Wednesday, October 30th:

1. The advisory council created a "Toolkit" subcommittee to provide resources to teachers and families.
2. LGBTQ+ AC has four current subcommittees - Elementary, Secondary, Toolkit, and Curriculum. Individuals interested in participating can contact their principal or school site representative. Anyone is welcome. to join the subcommittees.
3. The council discussed current cell phone policy, had breakout groups for elementary and secondary, and provided stakeholder feedback. 

Here are three key takeaways from our first LGBTQ+ AC meeting of the school year, which was held on Wednesday, September 11th:

1. We are looking for more representation from school sites across the district. Please reach out to your principal or school site representative if you are interested in participating in the LGBTQ+ advisory council.
2. There are three current subcommittees: Elementary, Secondary, and Curriculum. If you are interested in participating, please contact your principal or school site representative. Any CVUSD parent or caregiver is welcome to join our subcommittees.
3. We discussed priorities for the 24-25 academic year, including outreach, communication, and curriculum.

 

The key takeaways from our most recent SDAC Meeting, the final meeting for the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Monday, May 18th are:

1. Mrs. Judd and Finn held the annual ceremonious Senior Send off where Seniors were recognized for their service to SDAC.
     
2. The new executive board transitioned in and took over for the outgoing board.  Congraulations to Jalen Oben, SDAC new Chair and student board trustee for the 26/27.  
    
3.  SDAC chair solicited interest for SDAC subcommittees for the 26/27 school year. 
    
4. Students met with their subcommittees and solidified their focus for the 26/27 school year. 
    
5. Finn Kerns addressed SDAC and shared updates from the last School Board Meeting. 

We will gather for the next SDAC meeting when the 2026-2027 school year begins!
Please click here to visit the SDAC webpage and learn more about us.

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Previous Meeting Updates (2025-2026 School Year)

The key takeaways from our seventh SDAC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Monday, April 27th are:

1. Elections and candidate speeches for the 2026/2027 school year were delivered and conducted during the meeting.  We have several students interested in a variety of positions and look forward to the outcome of the election. 
2. New members for the 26/27 school year were welcomed to the meeting and invited to join in subcommittee discussion during the meeting.
3. Student Board Trustee shared his parting comments to the group encouraging them to remain engaged and keep their voices heard through consistent communication and willingness to speak up. 
    

The key takeaways from our sixth SDAC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Monday, March 23rd are:

1. The 1st Annual Civic Leadership Panel was hosted by SDAC Chair Finn Kerns.  Thank you to the panel of guests who shared their insight on students getting involved in their community.  Special thanks to Ashley Orozco, CRPD Board of Directors, Michelle Ascension, Ventura County Clerk-Recorder, C. Tie Gutierrez, Thousand Oaks City Council, Bob Engler, Thousand Oaks City Council, David Newman, Thousand Oaks City Council, Dr. Lisa Evans Powell, CVUSD School Board, Karen Sylvester, CVUSD School Board, Lauren Gill, CVUSD School Board, Cindy Goldberg, CVUSD School Board and Bill Gorback, CVUSD School Board.  
2. Student subcommittees met and gave reports.  The campus safety committee will be sending a survey out in April when we return from Spring Break.  
3. Thank you to Ms. Phillips, CVUSD Director of Child Nutrition Services, who provided Sushi samples for all students to test and provide feedback on to decide if it should be a future cafeteria item. 

The key takeaways from our fifth SDAC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Monday, February 23rd are:

1. Students participated in a lively discussion on the new math framework, piloting of new textbooks, and students shared what is most helpful for them when learning math.  Feedback was shared with Ms. Bartlett, the math TOSA, who will share with math teachers across CVUSD.
2. Students participated in small group discussion with their subcommittees.   Subcommittees are working on publicity campaigns and mental health awareness.  
3. Middle School Advisory Group representative shared that students are discussing ways to improve incentives for SBAC testing and technology use on campus. 
4. SDAC application was shared to all high schools and middle schools.  The application closes on February 27th, 2026 at 4:00pm.  
    

The key takeaways from our fourth SDAC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Monday, January 26th are:

1. Students engaged in an Artificial Intelligence discussion with Dr. Suter, Assistant Director of Technology and Mrs. Garcia, Educational Technology teacher on special assignment.  Students shared the ways AI helps them in the classroom as well as the pitfalls and concerns. 
2. Students met in their sub-committees to discuss on going initiatives including, but not limited to campus safety, student mental health, and SDAC publicity.
3. Campus Culture and safety is working on a districtwide student survey to discover the topics most relevant to them. 

The key takeaways from our third SDAC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Monday, November 17th are:

1. SDAC students listened to and participated in an Inclusion discussion led by Teacher On Special Assignment, Mrs. Sara Cummings.  Students learned communication and inclusion strategies when interacting with our students with disabilities.  SDAC students are bring the strategies back to their school campuses to educate and support their school communities. 
2. SDAC students met in the sub-committees and worked on several districtwide initiatives including environmental projects, wellness services, and publicity surveys.  
3. SDAC students received SDAC t-shirts that they can wear to school to help spread the word about SDAC and how student representatives can be a voice for all student concerns at the district level. 

The key takeaways from our second SDAC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Monday, October 27th are:

1. Ms. Sarah Phillips, Child Nutrition Services Director, presented on the new central kitchen, menu items, and solicited food ideas from students.  Students were able to taste new proposed menu items and provide feedback.   
2. SDAC representative discussed new student welcoming ideas along with strategies to support transfer students.  All ideas will be compiled and shared with site administration. 
3. SDAC subcommittees made reports on wellness, CSF, bond oversight, educational equity, and campus safety. 

The key takeaways from our first SDAC Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, which was held on Monday, September 15th are:

1. Members were introduced to SDAC operations, including access to the shared Google Drive, contact information, and BoardDocs. This orientation ensures all representatives have the tools and information needed to fulfill their roles effectively.
2. A special election for Recorder was held, and new subcommittee chairs were appointed. These appointments set the stage for active subcommittee work and stronger student advocacy.
3. SDAC members reviewed the new mandatory Sexual Harassment Training Module. Student representatives watched the module and discussed how to answer questions from their peers, reinforcing their responsibility as leaders and ambassadors on their campuses.

 

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2024-2025 School Year Updates

The latest updates from our Monday, May 19th SDAC Meeting are:

1. Mrs. Judd, Director of High Schools, facilitated Senior Send Off.  Graduating SDAC Seniors were recognized with a certificate CVUSD, a recognition certificate from Jacqui Irwin's office, and a lime green cord that Seniors can wear at Graduation.  
    
2. The 25/26 new Executive Board was announced and the new Board transitioned into running the meeting supported by outgoing SDAC Student Board Trustee, Aidan Light.  Finn Kerns did an excellent job running this first meeting.
    
3.  Mrs. Bowman, Coordinator, Student Support Services Welfare, Attendance, Foster/Homeless Care and Mrs. Christina Harrison, Director of Student Support Services, presented on attendance and solicited feedback from SDAC representatives on ideas on how to improve attendance and student engagement.
    
4. Student representatives voted on and approved SDAC meeting dates for the 25/26 school year. 
    
5. Finn Kerns, 25/26 SDAC Chair led a discussion on subcommittees and gathered interest of students who want to chair these committees for the 25/26 school year. 
    

The updates from our Monday, April 28th SDAC Meeting are:

1. Nominations and elections for executive cabinet and members at large took place.  SDAC members were issued the ballot at the conclusion of the general meeting. 
    
2. Dr. Jayna Suter, Assistant Director of Assessment and Technology and Mrs. Tiffany Garcia, Tech TOSA, gave a presentation on Artificial intelligence and how it can be used responsibly in classrooms and for today's learners. 

The updates from our Monday, March 24th SDAC Meeting are:

1. SDAC welcomed the new members to observe the March meeting in preparation for the upcoming April meeting where the new students will begin their term. 
    
2. Ms. Harrison, Director of Student Support Services, gave a presentation on CVUSD's response to Immigration enforcement. 
    
3. Students broke up into small groups to discuss out-of-the-classroom opportunities at the comprehensive campuses and how to expand those opportunities for more students.  
    
4. Students approved updated SDAC meeting norms and SDAC mission statement. 
    
5. Trustee Light, during his Chair comments, reviewed the upcoming election process in April along with the role of SDAC and how our new members can get involved.  

The updates from our Monday, February 24th SDAC Meeting are:

1. Dual Enrollment: The Director of High Schools presented information on dual enrollment opportunities and the on-campus time requirements for students interested in participating.
    
2. SDAC Mission Statement Revision: Students revised the SDAC mission statement.
    
3. SDAC Meeting Norms Revision: Students revised the SDAC meeting norms in preparation for welcoming new members for the 2025-2026 school year at the March meeting.
    
4. Financial Literacy Subcommittee: Due to recent California legislation mandating financial literacy as a graduation requirement, the SDAC voted to dissolve the Financial Literacy subcommittee.
    
5. Student Trustee Swearing-In Resolution: The SDAC voted on and passed a resolution for swearing in Student Trustees moving forward. This resolution will be presented to the School Board for consideration.

The updates from our Monday, January 27th SDAC Meeting are:

1. Counselors from the three comprehensive high schools presented an alternative to the traditional Valedictorian selection process, seeking feedback on the current policy.
    
2. Trustee Light and Finn Kerns presented findings from a student survey distributed in October, focusing on cell phone usage and parking lot data. Key findings included that approximately half of respondents favored some form of cell phone restrictions during class and that students expressed interest in exploring the possibility of transferable parking passes for increased flexibility.
    
3. Students discussed a proposal to amend the current board policy to include the swearing-in of the student trustee.   The proposal, if approved, will be shared with Superintendent McLaughlin and the School Board for consideration. 
    
4. Changes to bylaws and the SDAC description of roles were voted on and approved. 
    
5. SDAC members were excited upon hearing from MSAG (Middle School Advisory Group) members about the topics discussed at their inaugural meeting of the 2024-2025 school year. These topics included the selection of Valedictorians, cell phone usage policies, and bathroom safety and access, including the implementation of the 5-Star system.

The updates from our Monday, October 28th SDAC Meeting are:

1. Parking Improvements: Student DAC discussed various strategies to enhance parking facilities at high schools, aiming to create a more efficient and accessible environment for students. Proposed ideas will be compiled and presented to school site leadership for further consideration. 
    
2. City Transportation Collaboration: Mr. Graehame Watts from the City of Thousand Oaks engaged students in a discussion about local transportation challenges and improvements. He emphasized the importance of student feedback in shaping better transportation options for all residents, encouraging ongoing dialogue. 
    
3. Bylaw Revisions: The committee reviewed proposed updates to its bylaws to ensure compliance with the new District Advisory Handbook.
    
4. Racial Equality Commitment: Language updates regarding CVUSD's Commitment to Racial Equality were presented, reinforcing the district's dedication to fostering an inclusive environment. This initiative seeks to address and promote equity within the educational community.
    
5. Student Experience with RISE: Students shared their experiences with the RISE program, highlighting its positive messaging around unity. Feedback indicated a strong desire for future presentations to continue focusing on themes of unity over division, should CVUSD choose to maintain its partnership with RISE.

The updates from our Monday, September 23rd SDAC Meeting are:

1. Engaged in a comprehensive discussion and formulated a formal recommendation regarding a policy on Mobile Communication Devices that we are prepared to share with the Superintendent and district staff.
    
2. SDAC subcommittee attendance forms, representation, and schedules were discussed.
    
3. SDAC representatives are looking forward to participating in Super DAC coming up in October.

Updates from our Monday, August 26th SDAC Meeting are:
 

1. Student DAC reviewed new proposed Bylaw amendments, bringing our Bylaws up-to-date and reviewing new voting procedures.

2. Dr. Chamberlin, Director of Mental Health and Wellness Services in CVUSD, discussed the effects of social media on youth. Interest for the Wellness Committee was gathered, and ~3 students will be selected to serve on that committee.

3. Subcommittee attendance policies were shared with all members, and subcommittee chairpersons shared information about their subcommittees in breakout sessions.

4. Student DAC Member Orientation regarding the SDAC Shared Google Drive, BoardDocs, contacts, etc. was provided to new and returning members.

5. Cell phone policies and advocacy for students with disabilities were placed on Future Agenda Items.