Recap from LTUSD board meeting - new trustee appointed

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Ellen Camacho has been appointed as the new Lake Tahoe Unified School District (LTUSD) trustee for Area 1, replacing Larry Reilly who did not seek re-election. Since nobody from Area 1 filed to run for office, LTUSD accepted applications and Camacho was announced during a special meeting on October 8. She will officially begin her duties after being sworn in at the December 12, 2024, board meeting.

Bernadette Santana, president of the Classified School Employee Association, highlighted a new Memorandum of Understanding with the District that will hopefully lead to increased interest in classified staff opportunities. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Association and the District in achieving this agreement.

Tahoe Arts Project (TAP) Executive Director Peggy Blowney highlighted the organization's mission to enrich the community culturally and promote diversity through arts and education, especially focusing on youth. TAP hosts three to four performances annually for schools and the community, with community events being free of charge this year! Ms. Blowney noted that TAP aims to offer diverse performances that captivate students and raise awareness of the performing arts within the community. Additionally, TAP provides scholarships for high school graduates pursuing the performing arts and supports music therapy programs in schools. The next public performance, featuring Alias Brass, is set for November 8, 2024, at the Valhalla Boathouse Theatre.

Student/Special Services Coordinator Brenna Dillman provided an in-depth update on the start of the school year in Special Education Services. She announced the launch of the new Adult Program, which offers participants enriching opportunities. Each morning, students engage in physical education (P.E.) classes at Lake Tahoe Community College and enjoy community outings three to four times a week, where they also learn valuable job skills. Located at the Lake Tahoe Unified School District Education Center, these students play an active role in serving meals to Mt. Tallac and Elevated students. Ms. Dillman expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome from Mt. Tallac, Elevated, and Special Education Preschool students, noting the collaborative atmosphere. She is working closely with Beth Shepard, Tahoe-Alpine Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) Director, to enhance all aspects of the Student Services Programs. Ms. Dillman also highlighted ongoing inclusion efforts at South Tahoe Middle School, where special education students are becoming more involved in electives and P.E. classes.

Stay tuned for more updates on this impactful program!