SWSD April Board Meeting Recap
South Whittier School District held its monthly Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, April 21. During the meeting, the Board and attendees heard five presentations: the WASA Community Service Award, Above & Beyond Award, Los Altos Student and Academic Achievement Presentation, Measure K & QS Audit Presentation, and the Measure K Bond Update Presentation.
WASA Community Service Award
Associate Superintendent of Educational Services, Dr. Rebecca Rodriguez, recognized Katie Reyes with the WASA Community Service Award for her extraordinary work in creating and expanding McKibben’s school garden.
Ms. Reyes secured donations for all of the supplies needed to build the garden, including the addition of a sensory garden to ensure all students could be included and engaged in the space.
Congratulations, Ms. Reyes, and thank you for all you do for students and the McKibben community!
Above & Beyond Award
Two SWSD employees were recognized with nominations for the Above & Beyond Award this month.
Jaime Martinez, TOSA/Program Specialist, was nominated by a colleague for his exceptional dedication to students and families throughout South Whittier. His nomination highlighted his strong sense of purpose, care, and commitment to doing what is best for students. Mr. Martinez has created multiple programs and brings attention, intention, and detail to every project while building meaningful relationships across campuses.
Sylvia Ornelas, Loma Vista Secretary, was nominated by a Loma Vista parent for her kindness, professionalism, and thoroughness. The parent shared that Ms. Ornelas takes time with families to ensure their needs are met with care and attention to detail, describing her as a tremendous asset to both Loma Vista and the district.
Congratulations, Mr. Martinez and Ms. Ornelas!
Los Altos Student and Academic Achievement Presentation
Los Altos Principal Vanessa Muñoz gave a presentation highlighting Los Altos’ mission, CAASPP data, and next steps for continued academic growth.
Ms. Muñoz shared that Los Altos’ mission is built on four pillars: high achievement for all students, 21st-century skills through bilingualism, cultural awareness, and cognitive flexibility. Their mission also emphasizes strong parent involvement and a collaborative learning environment.
The presentation then focused on CAASPP data comparing the 2024 and 2025 school years. Los Altos showed improvement in both ELA and math, as well as a reduction in chronic absenteeism. One continued area of focus is supporting English Learners and ensuring their continued academic success.
Moving forward, Los Altos will continue leveraging its instructional leadership team to strengthen academics through data chats, collaboration opportunities, and high-impact instructional strategies.
Following the presentation, students were recognized for reclassification—an important milestone for students who have demonstrated mastery of core content areas with the support of their teachers and families.
Congratulations to all of the students recognized!
Measure K & QS Audit Presentation
A representative from CWDL presented the district’s audited financial statements for Measure K and Measure QS.
The audit reviewed key financial components, including the balance sheet for Measure K, as well as statements of revenues, expenditures, and changes in fund balance. These same financial components were also reviewed for Measure QS.
The summary of the audit results showed that the auditors issued an unmodified opinion, meaning all financial statements were found to be in compliance. There were no findings or questioned costs related to internal controls or compliance for either Measure K or Measure QS.
Financial and Performance Audits
Measure K – For the years ended June 2024 and June 2025
Measure QS – For the year ended June 2025
Measure K Bond Update Presentation
Associate Superintendent of Business Services Joanne Chan presented an update on Measure K Bond priority projects and funding.
The presentation began with an overview of current bond fund status and available funding. Ms. Chan then outlined the district’s priority projects, which include updated parking at McKibben, fire and life safety improvements, roofing and building envelope repairs, and the addition of a bond/program manager to oversee project coordination and implementation.
The presentation also reviewed the estimated cost of each project and how each would be funded. This included a funding gap analysis and strategies for addressing those gaps.
Ms. Chan also explained the rationale behind the prioritization of each project, the sequence in which projects will move forward, and the projected timeline for completion.
The next scheduled Board of Education meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 20.