SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – The last meeting of the Lake Tahoe Unified School District (LTUSD) Board of Education was held on January 23, 2025. The following is a recap by Teresa Schow, executive assistant to the superintendent and their press information officer.
Student Board Member Mia Valenzuela spoke about the challenges of navigating change in our country and how this can cause stress and anguish. She encouraged everyone to respond with kindness and respect during these times.
Superintendent Dr. Todd Cutler acknowledged the community’s growing concerns regarding federal government actions. He noted that schools must remain safe spaces for students to learn and grow, stating, “It is important for us to reassure our families that our priority is to protect the rights of all students and keep them safe in our care.”
South Tahoe High School (STHS) Principal Justin Zunino introduced National Honor Society (NHS) advisor Amanda McDonald and NHS students. The chapter currently has 29 members, each required to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.8 and complete at least 20 hours of volunteer work annually. NHS President Lily Erwin highlighted that every member must lead at least one community service project, allowing them to pursue initiatives that align with their individual interests and passions. Members actively support local marathons, environmental organizations, STHS Winterfest, etc. Ava Galli and Brody DeFranco started the Backpack Buddies program that provides students in need with essential items to support their well-being outside of school. The backpacks include snacks, personal hygiene products, and mental health resources. NHS National awarded $1000 to the STHS Backpack Buddies program to fund spring backpacks and snacks for all students during state and Advanced Placement testing.
Although the Board approved the Determination of District Needs for 2025-26, Superintendent Cutler reassured the community that the District is committed to maintaining staffing levels and does not anticipate layoffs this year.
Director of Human Resources John Simons reviewed the early retirement offers extended to the South Tahoe Educators’ Association and the Classified School Employee Association, noting that it was a one-time opportunity. He explained that the offers are designed to support retirement.
The Board is committed to swiftly initiating projects funded by Measure U and plans to move the following projects forward:
Approved Actions
- Bond Sale Resolution – Approved to facilitate project funding.
- Studio W Selection – Approved as the architect for Measure U projects.
Reviewed Items
- Citizens Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) – The Board reviewed the committee’s roles and responsibilities. Members will be presented for approval at the February 13, 2025, BOE meeting.
- Energy-Saving & Sustainability Initiatives – The Board explored ways to incorporate sustainable and energy-efficient projects into Measure U plans.
Exploratory Discussions
- Project/Program Management – The Board considered engaging a Project/ Program Manager to oversee Measure U projects.
- Bond Construction Delivery Methods – The Board reviewed different construction delivery options for optimal project execution.
The next LTUSD School Board meeting will be held on March 13. Both in-person and remote participation options are available. Though not posted yet, the agenda will be found HERE.
