Monday, June 8, 2026

In the final meeting of the 2025–26 school year, the Reed Union School District board approved a new multi-year employment agreement with Superintendent Dr. Kimberly McGrath and authorized up to $48,050 for community outreach tied to a possible local funding measure. Much of the evening was given over to year-end appreciations for students, teachers, and staff.

Superintendent's Evaluation and Contract

Coming out of closed session, the board reported that Dr. McGrath received her year-end evaluation, which was positive. Later in the meeting, the board approved a new employment agreement with Dr. McGrath that commences July 1, 2026. As described at the dais, the agreement provides an annual 3% increase contingent on a satisfactory evaluation, stipends, and health and retiree benefits consistent with those of other district administrators. The board approved the agreement and granted the board president authority to sign it.

Outreach Budget for a Local Funding Measure

The board discussed a budget for public outreach and education connected to a prospective local funding measure (referenced as a bond/parcel-tax effort). Trustees asked staff how much neighboring districts had spent on similar education and outreach campaigns; staff indicated comparable districts had spent roughly $30,000–$40,000, including mailers, but a full comparison was still being gathered. Trustees emphasized that any district-funded outreach would be informational only and time-limited in scope, with separate advocacy handled by an independent campaign committee. After discussion, the board approved a budget "not to exceed $48,050" for the outreach effort.

LCAP and Local Indicators

Dr. McGrath presented the district's Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) and the related local indicators, both state-required documents that the board had reviewed in detail at the prior meeting, including the budget overview for parents. Staff recommended approval so the district could move forward, and the board took up the item.

Food Service Agreement

The board considered continuing the district's 2026–27 food service operations with Revolution Foods through an allowable "piggyback" on an existing competitively bid vended-meals contract. Staff explained the agreement supports the district's participation in the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program at rates established in 2025–26 and would run through June 30, 2027. In response to trustee questions, staff confirmed the agreement allows the district to keep using compostable containers and to offer family-style meals and special menu days such as burger and grill days.

Budget and Reserves

District business official Dr. Kim discussed the county's role under AB 1200 in reviewing district budgets. He clarified that the county's statutory authority governs the state's minimum reserve policy rather than the board's own adopted reserve policy, and that the district could expect a budget-adoption letter that functions as a warning rather than a move toward county takeover. Such letters, he noted, are typically tied to the interim budget process when districts must certify their financial position as positive, qualified, or negative. One trustee tied the discussion back to the district's strategic plan, restating the goal of working toward financial stability and a balanced budget so the district remains a good steward of public funds.

Closing

With no future items raised for board consideration, the board closed its final meeting of the school year. Trustees and staff used the meeting's closing comments to thank students for their year of learning and growth, and to recognize teachers, administrators, and district leadership for their work over the 180-day school year.