Parentsquare Logo

  • June 17, 2020 Board Meeting Highlights

    Board Meeting Highlights June 17, 2020 Board Meeting (Remote) To view attachments related to the presentations summarized below, please view the  board meeting agenda . Resolution #22 - 19/20: Imposing Special Parcel Tax As provided in the General Election on November 8, 2016, the Board imposes a parcel tax renewal for 2020-21. This Resolution affirms this renewal of what was described in the voter-approved ballot language for an increase each year. Resolution #24 - 19/20: Authorization to Sign on Behalf of the Governing Board This resolution is a typical annual agenda item that authorizes certain employees to act on behalf of the Governing Board in various District business matters. Adoption of COVID-19 Operations Written Report The  COVID-19 Operations Written Report , which is required by Governor Newsom's Executive Order (EO) N-56-20 to address the impact of school closures in response to the pandemic, was presented at the June 10, 2020 Board of Trustees meeting. The five key areas of the plan include: changes to program offerings the district has made in response to school closures and the impact on students and families; meeting the needs of English learners, low-income students, and foster youth students; delivering high-quality distance learning opportunities; providing meals while social distancing; and arranging for supervision during ordinary school hours, which involved staff contacting students who were not regularly engaged in distance learning activities.   Wendy Holmes, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, presented updates to the report as requested by the Board. This included the number of Mill Valley Middle School students who were initially disengaged from remote learning (294 students - 29%) to the final percentage of students who were disengaged (36 - 3%). This significant change can be attributed to targeted efforts from teachers, counselors, and administrators in addition to assistance from high school student mentors for struggling students. Additionally, students who have been struggling with school work have been invited to participate in summer learning through the  iReady pilot program . You may  read the full report on our website here . Proposed Budget for 2020-21 Dr. Michele Rollins, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services presented the  proposed 2020-21 Mill Valley School District budget . Previously, the draft budget was reviewed at the May 27 Board Study Session and the public hearing and preliminary budget was presented at the June 10, 2020 Board of Trustees meeting. The 2020-21 proposed budget includes settlement agreements with both the Certificated and Classified unions at a rate of 3.0% and negotiated health and welfare benefit increases have been built into total compensation, as well as CalSTRS and CalPERS pensions at the current statutory rate. The budget also shows multi-year projections in which expenses will exceed revenues and dip into the reserve funds, bringing the reserve percentage to 30% ($502,520 deficit) in 2020-21, then just under 24% ($2,575,875 deficit) in 2022-22, and just under 19% ($2,303,675 deficit) in 2022-23. Adoption of District Budget for 2020-21 Following the budget presentation, the Board of Trustees adopted the 2020-21 budget. Resolution #25 - 19/20: Approval of Projected 2020-21 Education Protection Account This resolution is part of funding for school districts. Taxes that come in through Proposition 30 are part of the district operating budget. You can view the  Education Protection Account (EPA) budget on our website here . Resolution #26 - 19/20: Tax Anticipation Note (TAN) Education Code Section 42620 authorizes the Marin County Board of Supervisors to make temporary transfers of funds to school districts that are experiencing cash shortages. The TAN allows the District to ensure that we have cash flow to meet all operating needs for the full 2020-21 fiscal year. Dr. Rollins stated that we anticipate not needing to utilize these funds and expect to remain in a positive cash flow.  Resolution #27 - 19/20: Designating Senior Management Position of the Classified Service The Director of Maintenance, Operations, & Safety position was designated as a Senior Management Position of the Classified Service, which entitles the position to all rights, benefits, and burdens of all Classified employees except that they are exempt from obtaining permanent status in a senior management position. Our district can designate two classified management positions to this status and this is our only current designation. Declaration of Need for Fully Qualified Educators Governing Boards must declare on an annual basis whether there is a need to provide certificated instructional staff with emergency permits to enable them to provide specialized instruction. This must be based on a substantive need, usually because of a hard to fill position or because of a unique, exceptional circumstance. The District must provide the estimated number of emergency permits required, and estimated needing 2 single-subject permits and 1 special education permit for the 2020-21 school year. Board meeting dates and agendas .  Mill Valley School District | 415-389-7700 | communications@mvschools.org | mvschools.org 

    Monday, Jun 22 2020

  • June 10, 2020 Board Meeting Highlights

    Board Meeting Highlights June 10, 2020 Board Meeting (Remote) To view attachments related to the presentations summarized below, please view the  board meeting agenda . Retirement Recognition Retiring staff members were recognized by the board and a book, selected by district librarian Jane Ritter, was donated to the school library of each retiree in their honor. Donated books included a racial justice and anti-racism theme, and the book  This Book is Anti-Racist: 20 Lessons on How to Wake Up, Take Action, and Do the Work by Tiffany Jewell was donated to all schools for 5th grade students and up.  The retiring staff members are: Andee Abramson, District Office - Book: You Matter by Robinson Leslie Cohl, Strawberry Point School - Book: The Seed of Compassion by Dalai Lama Phoebe Dong, District Wide - Book: Music for Tigers by Kadarmsman Amy Faulkner, Park School - Book: Our Friend Hedgehog by Castillo Bev Medynski, Strawberry Point School - Book: King of Kindergarten by Barnes Annette Pagano, Edna Maguire Elementary School - Book: Just Like Me by Newton A Focused Discussion on our Objective to Support Balanced Learners Dr. Kimberly Berman  shared a presentation on expectations for prioritizing discussions in our District related to Strategic Plan Objective 1: Balanced Learners, which states: “All students will learn in an environment that fosters social-emotional well-being, equity, global perspectives, and awareness through inquiry and project-based instruction.” There is a clear and long-standing gap in the achievement level between our student groups.  CAASPP testing results in our District show that even though nearly all of our student groups increased their performance on the 2018 test from the prior year, it is clear that some student groups are not achieving at the high levels of our students overall. Economically disadvantaged students’ English Language Arts (ELA) scores decreased by 6% from 2018 to 2019. Reclassified English Learners’ scores decreased by 4% from 2018 to 2019 in both ELA and Math. African American students’ Math scores decreased by 2% from 2018 to 2019. Asian students’ ELA scores decreased by 10% from 2018 to 2019. Hispanic and Latino students’ ELA scores decreased by 5% from 2018 to 2019.  It is important that we acknowledge systemic racism, convene a committee and create a plan, implement and monitor our plan, and hold people accountable.  This process will start with examining our core and intervention practices, analyzing and monitoring data for students, increasing instructional capacity through curricular alignment, professional development, collaboration, and data-driven reflection on practices, and examine our culturally responsive practices. Additionally, Rod Septka, District Global Studies Coach, provided information on global competence and how this relates to equity. Our District’s work on global competence education is ongoing and students and staff have been engaging in it with their teachers, who have received training and attended  Courageous Conversations seminars. While teachers and staff have been personally and professionally learning about anti-racism, we must embed these practices into all of our classrooms with intentionality. Mr. Septka shared that over 1,000 students have signed up for the   iReady summer learning program which will provide a big dataset of student learning. We currently have various assessments across the district but need to explore consistent practice to look at the same data for all students.  Board members expressed support for intentionally examining systemic racism in Mill Valley School District, using authentic assessments to provide more information about our students’ achievement, and convening an equity committee to focus our efforts.  We invite you to access resources related to racial justice and anti-racism.  Please visit this page for an anti-racist reading list and more . We highly recommend these for excellent summer reading and family discussion. Second Reading & Approval: Board Policy BP4033 Lactation Accommodation This item was presented to the Board for another first reading and approval at the May 14, 2020 Board of Trustees meeting after requested revisions were made to the item from the April 2, 2020 meeting. The  Board Policy   was presented for a second reading and was approved. Technology Assessment Presentation Dr. Berman introduced Terry Kritsepis and Eric Stoxen from Development Group, Inc. (DGI), who shared a  comprehensive analysis and update on the status of the District’s technology infrastructure , including information regarding the data center, network infrastructure, telephone system, and classroom projectors and equipment. The necessary updates and next steps will be incorporated into the next budget update. COVID-19 Operations Written Report Overview Wendy Holmes, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, provided an overview of the COVID-19 Operations Written Report. Executive Order N-56-20 was issued on April 22, 2020 to address the impact of school closures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Executive Order establishes the requirement that a local educational agency (LEA) adopt a COVID-19 Operations Written Report. The report must include brief responses to five questions explaining the changes to program offerings made by the LEA in response to school closures.  The five key areas of the plan include: changes to program offerings the district has made in response to school closures and the impact on students and families; meeting the needs of English learners, low-income students, and foster youth students; delivering high-quality distance learning opportunities; providing meals while social distancing; and arranging for supervision during ordinary school hours, which involved staff contacting students who were not regularly engaged in distance learning activities.  To learn about the actions taken in these areas, you can  read the full report or  view the board presentation . Budget Revision for Fiscal Year 2019-20 and Preliminary Budget for 2020-21, including Budget Adoption Reserves Dr. Berman and Dr. Michele Rollins  reviewed the  preliminary budget for the 2020-21 school year including budget adoption reserves and multi-year projections. Budget adoption is scheduled for June 17, 2020. The District also received board approval for budget revisions for 2019-20 as reflected in the  Estimated Actuals and Preliminary Budget for 2020-21. As a follow up from the May 27th Board of Trustees meeting, the district has focused on the following items in budget development: essential protective equipment, with an account detail plan in place; technology as a priority; limitations on travel and modifications for professional development for the 2020-21 school year; filtration system upgrades at al sites; a review of HVAC and roofing needs at the middle school; continued support of the arts; and consideration for social and emotional supports and instructional supports. Board meeting dates and agendas .  Mill Valley School District | 415-389-7700 | communications@mvschools.org | mvschools.org 

    Monday, Jun 15 2020

  • Mill Valley School District Newsletter - Banner to C...

    Banner to Celebrate Students Congratulations to our graduating 8th graders and to all students who are completing remote learning during these last two weeks of school. We have placed a banner on the fence at the Mill Valley Middle School on Camino Alto in celebration of finishing the school year.  8th grade students, or students of any other grade level, are invited to take a photo with the sign. Please use proper social distancing. Please share your photos with us by using #MVSDRemoteLearning or tagging us @millvalleyschools on Instagram  or Facebook  or @mv_schools on Twitter . Board of Trustees Meetings We invite you to join us at our Board Meetings. The next regular Board Meeting will take place remotely Wednesday , June 10th at 6  pm .  To access the meeting, please visit this page at 5:45 pm on June 10th. You may view the full board meeting calendar on our website . Please access board meeting agendas on Agenda Online . Kiddo! Virtual Art Gallery In collaboration with Mill Valley School District art teachers, Kiddo! launched the MVSD Students Online Art Collection , featuring the artwork of students grades K to 8 during remote learning. Students were able to submit the artwork they were proud of for our community to admire. Take a look at their amazing work! Racial Equity Resources from the Marin County Office of Education The Marin County Office of Education has provided a variety of resources regarding racial equity , including resources for talking to kids about race, children's books, using your voice and taking action, and more.  Congratulations 2019-20 Retirees! Last week, Mill Valley School District staff were honored for years of service milestones, Golden Bell and Chamber of Commerce awards, and retirements. Please join us in congratulating these staff members for their accomplishments and milestones! 2019-20 Retiring Staff: Phoebe Dong, District Wide Leslie Cohl, Strawberry Point Amy Faulkner, Park School Andee Abramson, District Office Annette Pagano, Edna Maguire Welcome Back to District Classified, Confidential, & Administrative Staff We welcomed back our Classified, Confidential, and Administrative staff across the district this week and appreciate the essential services our staff continues to provide. Staff members are following appropriate social distancing and wearing masks. All school buildings remain closed unless by appointment only. Safe Routes to School Virtual Bike Safety Lessons Safe Routes to School Marin County developed virtual bike safety lessons . Feel free to take a look with your child. Mill Valley School District | 415-389-7700 | contact@mvschools.org | mvschools.org Follow us on social media!       

    Wednesday, Jun 03 2020

  • May 27, 2020 Board Meeting Study Session Highlights

    Board Meeting Highlights May 27, 2020 Board Meeting Study Session (Remote) To view attachments related to the presentations summarized below, please view the  board meeting agenda . Budget Presentation Dr. Kimberly Berman, Superintendent, and Dr. Michele Rollins, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services, presented budget recommendations and engaged in discussion with the board for guidance, input, and direction for budget development to be presented on June 10th at the Regular Board Meeting. This comprehensive budget presentation provided information including (but not limited to): LCAP Changes Due to Executive Order COVID-19 Plan Report Budget Development 2020-21 Planning Second Interim 2019-20 and Multi-Year Projections Budget Planning from the Governor's May Revise Descriptions of LCFF and Community Funded (Basic Aid) District Revenue Sources Projected Revenue by Funding Source Assessed Valuation from Property Taxes 2020-21 Budget Assumptions for Revenues and Expenditures Enrollment and Staffing Projections Process Assurances Leases and Rental Revenues Kiddo! Foundation Revenues Projection Maintenance and Operations Projection Administrator Teacher Ratio Calculation Reserves General Obligation Refunding Bonds S&P AAA and Moody's Aaa Rating To learn more about these budget topics, please view the presentation . Board meeting dates and agendas .  Mill Valley School District | 415-389-7700 | communications@mvschools.org | mvschools.org 

    Friday, May 29 2020

  • Mill Valley School District Newsletter - Marin Count...

    Congratulations to Marin County Excellence in Education Honorees! Two of our amazing teachers will be honored at the 2019-20 Marin County Excellence in Education virtual award ceremony. We invite you to join us in congratulating Ann Marie Padilla (Tam Valley) and Katie Fisher (Edna Maguire).  You can register to attend the virtual award ceremony here . Board of Trustees Meetings We invite you to join us at our Board Meetings. The next Board Meeting Study Session will take place remotely Wednesday, May 27th at 5  pm .  To access the meeting, please visit this page at 4:45 pm on May 27th. You may view the full board meeting calendar on our website . Please access board meeting agendas on Agenda Online . Pop Up Food Pantry Update for Friday, Including New Volunteer Slots and Donation Link Dear Families, Our Pop-Up Food Pantry will be distributing food again this Friday from 11-2 (or until the bags run out) in the drop off lane at Tam, 700 Miller Ave.  Though we have expanded our numbers each week, we have been running out of food, so come early if possible! No need to sign up—350 bags of food will be packed and ready to put in your car.  If you can't pick up, please fill out this form by 7:00 PM Thursday and bags will be delivered your door (see below to sign up for a month of delivery at a time). This week we also have a special shout out to Peninsula Accounting and Financial Services for donating toilet paper for each bag! WAYS TO HELP: • We are supplementing the food from the Food Bank with additional staples like eggs and milk. The Mill Valley PTA Council has launched a fundraiser to fund this effort.   Donations   are tax-deductible.   •More volunteer slots have been added--click here to sign up!  Students 15 and up are welcome to volunteer from 9:00-11:00.  You can also volunteer at other pop-up food banks here .   • Finally, you can help by purchasing your produce from Freshr , and using the code TAM at checkout. Freshr sells produce from farmers that previously supplied restaurants. For every box purchased, Freshr donates $7 of beautiful produce to our Pop Up Pantry. QUESTIONS: For questions about volunteering, email our volunteer coordinator. For questions about donating, email  our donation coordinator. If you can’t pick up, but are in need of food, please fill out this form or email  our delivery coordinator if you would like to sign up for a month at a time by 7:00 PM on Thursday. #HonoringTeachers Project from Local Filmmaker Below is a message from local filmmaker, Therese Vreeland, who is looking for participants for a film honoring teachers. Dear Teachers Parents & Students, School being taught remotely has many challenges and it would be great to give thanks to the teachers for their dedication and innovation. During the past few months due to the SIP and Covid-19 our teachers have developed new teaching strategies and curriculum. Teachers have lead like many first responders into uncharted waters. Therese Vreeland a local parent and video producer is coordinating a short video to honor teachers and we are hoping you will help in sharing some “behind the scenes” to how school looks currently. For teachers, students and parents “school" has a new look and structure. We are looking to capture footage of the following scenes: • Teachers preparing for class at home • Teachers teaching class from home • Students “attending" class from home • Parents helping students at home during schoolwork • Hand drawn pictures and “thank you" signs made by the students • Parents who are also teachers dual-tasking teaching and helping their children There are two options to capture the home school experience: Option 1) Parents and/or students film students/children “attending” a remote zoom class and doing classroom work from home. Only include your student or family not the zoom screen with other students or the teacher. A “thank you” message to your teacher would also be great. You can film on an iPhone or digital camera. Submissions should NOT be longer than 5 minutes. Please email submissions to: therese.vreeland@me.com Option 2) Therese and her partner director/editor both wearing masks and staying safely 6 feet away will come to your home and film the students or teachers. This will be coordinated directly between you and Therese. Please click on the separate link to sign up if you are interested in being part of this project. S tudent Sign-Up Link Teacher Sign-Up Link City of Mill Valley Launches Community Support Line The City of Mill Valley has launched a Community Support Line ! The Community Support Line is designed to connect Mill Valley residents with support services currently being offered by local community-based organizations, Marin County, and the state. The Community Support Line is also a tool for those who may need help with groceries/produce, tech support, dog walking, and weekly check-in calls. The support line will be answered by a staff member or volunteer Monday through Friday from 10 am - 2 pm. All messages left outside of this time will be returned by the following business day. Mill Valley Community Support Line: (415) 384-9650 Email: communitysupport@cityofmillvalley.org Mill Valley School District | 415-389-7700 | contact@mvschools.org | mvschools.org Follow us on social media!       

    Wednesday, May 20 2020

  • Mill Valley School District Board Meeting Highlights...

    Board Meeting Highlights May 14, 2020 Board of Trustees Remote Regular Meeting To view attachments related to the presentations summarized below, please view the  board meeting agenda . Recognition of Outstanding Golden Bell Awards Each May, Marin County recognizes outstanding certificated and classified staff at the annual Golden Bell Education Celebration. The event is sponsored by Marin County School Boards Association and Marin County School Districts and will occur virtually on May 21, 2020. The Superintendent and Board of Trustees recognized the teachers and classified staff nominated for the 2019-20 school year. The following Mill Valley School District teachers were nominated for Golden Bell Education awards and three words were submitted to describe each teacher: Erin Cooney - Conscientious, Collaborative, Hilarious Kristina Putalik - Reflective, Insightful, Passionate Lisa Monge - Idealistic, Effective, Globally-minded Mari Mountsier - Calm, Caring, Skillful Maria Brundige - Organized, Patient, Flexible Phoebe Dong - Caring, Devoted, Detailed The following Mill Valley School District classified employees were nominated for Golden Bell awards and three words were submitted to describe each person: Daria Painter - Patient, Loving, Dedicated Dietrich Carver - Dedicated, Loyal, Conscientious John Sy - Hard-working, Friendly, Kind Monica Tasso - Efficient, Dependable, Resourceful Recognition of Chamber of Commerce Award for Excellence in Professional Education Service Recipients The Superintendent and Board of Trustees recognized teachers Katie Fisher and Ann Marie Padilla for receiving the award for Excellence in Professional Education Service from the Mill Valley Chamber of Commerce. The award recognizes outstanding contributions in the following areas: Curriculum Improvement, Overall Program Improvement, Instructional Excellence, Exemplary Support to the Classroom, Personal Involvement and Leadership and Technological Leadership. Bond Feasibility Discussion The Superintendent and the Board of Trustees continued their discussion of the feasibility of a school improvement bond measure for the Mill Valley School District. The consensus of the conversion was that this is not an ideal time to move forward, considering the economic needs of the community as well as the need for staff to focus on remote learning and transitioning to classroom learning in the fall. The Superintendent and the Board of Trustees will reconsider at a future time and address maintenance on an as-needed basis. Resolution #19-19/20, Designation of District Representatives and Authorizations to Sign In order to apply for and authorize approval of School Facility Program eligibility and potential funding, the Board of Trustees approved a resolution authorizing Dr. Berman and Dr. Rollins to sign for the District. Resolution #20-19/20, Election for Board Seats This Resolution allowed the Board of Supervisors to consolidate with other elections and request election services by the Marin County Elections Department. First Reading - Board Policy Lactation Accommodation At the April 2, 2020 board meeting, Dr. Berman indicated revisions to a proposed board policy BP4033 Lactation Accommodation would be brought back to the board for a first reading. In this policy, lactating staff would be provided with access to a sink and a refrigerator rather than just a cooler for storing milk on campus. Second Reading & Approval - BP 5146 A Board Policy for Married/Pregnant/Parenting Students was presented for a second reading and approved by the Board. Local Control and Accountability Plan Update District staff shared with the Board of Trustees that in response to the COVID-19 crisis, Governor Newsom issued Executive Order N-56-20, which provides guidance to Local Education Agencies in the development of their three-year Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) for 2020-2023. The Executive order suspends LCAP requirements until December 15, requiring a written report be submitted in its place with the annual budget by July 1. Following the 2020-21 school year, the 3-year LCAP development cycle will recommence. Staff are developing the LCAP COVID-19 Written Report in a form provided by the California Department of Education, which explains the change to program offerings and the impact on students and families due to COVID-19, including how we’re meeting the needs of various student groups, how we are delivering high-quality distance learning, and providing meals and supervision. Each response can be no more than 300 words. The next LCAP Parent Advisory Committee meeting is next Wednesday, May 20th from 9-10am. You can join via Zoom from this link starting at 8:45 am. Remote Learning & Transition Plan Update Dr. Berman shared an overview of remote learning and discussed next steps related to the transition plan moving forward, including a Transition Task Force. The Task Force will develop an understanding of students’ academic and social-emotional needs related to the transition from remote learning to fall learning; provide input on priorities and, as needed, develop recommendations on program priorities that ensure a balanced approach; contribute to improved communication to enhance understanding of the transition from remote learning to fall learning; and contribute to and support a transparent and collaborative transition process. The Task Force will be comprised of: One (1) Classified Staff Member -- Elementary School One (1) Classified Staff Member -- Middle School One (1) CSEA Member School Site Principals and Administrators (8) Two (2) Medical Professionals One (1) Certificated Staff Member- Elementary School One (1) Certificated Staff Member- Middle School One (1) MVTA Member One (1) Kiddo! Representative Two (2) PTA Representatives One (1) IT Takes a Village Representative Up to two (2) MVSD School Board Trustees (appointed by the Board of Trustees) Three (3) Parents (representing dual working or single working) Task Force meetings will occur from 9-10 am on the following Thursdays via Zoom: June 4, 2020 June 18, 2020 June 25, 2020 July 30, 2020 August 6, 2020 If you are interested in participating, you can apply to be on the task force by filling out this form . Applications to participate in the MVSD Transition Task Force will be accepted until May 21. Participants selected will be notified by May 28. Participants will be selected by the District Leadership Team with the aim of including a wide variety of points of view and experience. By agreeing to be on the task force, you agree to attend the Task Force meetings above, and to effectively communicate to the groups to whom you represent. Resolution #21-19/20 of the Governing Board of the Mill Valley School District Regarding the Reduction or Discontinuance of Particular Kinds of Services - Final Layoff Resolution In order to proportionately align staffing with the decrease in student enrollment, staff recommended a final reduction of particular kinds of services across the district. The total reduction of permanent and/or probationary staff will be no more than 0.40 Full Time Equivalent (FTE) certificated math teacher. The District was originally estimating a layoff of 2.0 FTE. This 0.40 reduction was shared with the Board in March, and the final approved reduction is 0.4 FTE. Board meeting dates and agendas .  Mill Valley School District | 415-389-7700 | communications@mvschools.org | mvschools.org  ParentSquare Survey Thank you for participating in our recent remote learning survey. To view top-line results, visit our remote learning website . Grading Plan The COVID-19 health crisis has dramatically impacted all of our lives. It has required an unprecedented shift in instruction in our schools to learning remotely. While our remote learning plan is designed to keep learning moving forward, we recognize it does not replicate in-class instruction and the multiple supports that are provided to students at school. We recognize MVSD families are experiencing remote learning in different ways, depending on each family’s unique circumstances. Factors such as student age, learning differences, ability, and availability of support are variables that make the learning experience different from one student to the next. Because of these wide-ranging variables and circumstances, we are responding with a new way to assess learning in the absence of the traditional assessment, grading, and reporting practices typically used in a normal grading period. Due to the impact of COVID-19 and remote learning, the Mill Valley School District has adjusted the grading process for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year. The new structure will reflect a focus on continuing habits of learning and encouraging participation. In the fall, teachers and schools will work to assess learning. The grading and reporting guidelines for the final trimester of the 2019-2020 school year will be as follows: Grades K-5:  Students will receive summary comments only from their teachers on the third trimester progress report. Grades 6-8:  Students will receive Credit or No Mark (CR/NM) on the third trimester report card. These guidelines have been based on research, discussions with members of our MVSD community and other Marin County school districts, guidance from the California Department of Education, and recommendations from Stanford’s Challenge Success organization. In the absence of a traditional grading system, we hope these guidelines will allow students to remain engaged while reducing stress during this unique period of remote learning. Students and families will continue to receive feedback from their teacher(s) for the duration of remote learning. Along with ongoing feedback, communication and partnership with our families will continue to be a priority for our district. We look forward to the time when we are back in our schools learning together. Until then, we will maintain our focus on supporting our students and one another as a Mill Valley community during this unprecedented time. Please share any questions or concerns with Wendy Holmes , Director of Curriculum & Instruction. MVSD Students Visual Arts Collection Mill Valley School District art teachers and Kiddo! are hosting a virtual arts collection online and open to the public for viewing as a year-end celebration of our students and Kiddo! Art submissions are currently being gathered from students via online submission to   mvkidsartshare@kiddo.org and we will share the link to the art gallery in a future newsletter to share our amazing student artwork. LCAP Parent Advisory Committee There is a Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) Parent Advisory Committee meeting next week on Wednesday, May 20th from 9-10:00 am. All LCAP PAC meetings are open to the public. Please visit this page for information on how to join the meeting remotely and access meeting documents. Zoom Update Information For those who use the Zoom software app on your laptop/desktop to connect to your students, teachers and colleagues for meetings or instruction, Zoom announced a new update (version 5.0) on April 27.  Pop-ups suggesting you update started appearing earlier this week when you join and exit a Zoom meeting.   You will be required to update starting May 30 in order to use Zoom. The update takes a few minutes and we recommend you do it now when you have some time (rather than right before a meeting). The updated software looks very similar, but contains enhanced security and encryption features that help protect data and prevent meeting tampering. If you don't get the pop-up window, go to the   zoom.us menu while the app is running and select  Check for updates . Bond Refinancing Saves Taxpayers over $3.8 million Mill Valley School District has refinanced prior general obligation bonds of the District which were originally sold in 2012. The refunding will save property owners over $3.8 million in interest costs over the next nineteen years.  The 2020 Bonds were approved by the Mill Valley School District Board of Trustees on March 12th.  The original 2012 Bonds were authorized by District voters at an election from November 2009, the proceeds of which were to finance school improvements.  Interest rates on the prior bonds ranged from 3.50% to 4.25% and the interest rate for the new 2020 Bonds ranged between 1.30% and 2.85%. This difference in rates will save property owners $3,801,978.69. “Our residents have supported Mill Valley students over the years by approving bonds to improve our schools,” Superintendent Berman said. “With interest rates at historic lows, we had the opportunity to lower property tax payments by refinancing the 2012 Bonds and lower taxes for years to come.”  "As Interest rates continued to decline this year, the MVSD Board jumped on the opportunity to take advantage of low rates to save our taxpayers money,” Board President Marco Pardi stated. “I'm proud of the district for doing what it can to manage the outstanding bond in an active and responsible manner.”  Property owners in the District will see reduced tax rates beginning next year. MVSD Transition Task Force As mentioned in the Board Meeting Highlights, the Mill Valley School District is forming a Transition Task Force to develop an understanding of students’ academic and social-emotional needs related to the transition from remote learning to fall learning; provide input on priorities and, as needed, develop recommendations on program priorities that ensure a balanced approach; contribute to improved communication to enhance understanding of the transition from remote learning to fall learning; and contribute to and support a transparent and collaborative transition process. If you are interested in participating, please   fill out this form . Toolbox Parent Presentation by MVSD Elementary Counselors Please join our Elementary School Counselors, Jason Mountsier, Jen Ferrer, Meredith Mishel, & Margaret McClung on Wednesday, May 27th, 12-1 pm for a parent presentation on the Social Emotional Learning (SEL) program, Toolbox. The counselors will be giving an overview on Toolbox, a research-based curriculum, designed for K-6 students. The counselors will introduce all 12 tools of Toolbox with hands-on activities and common language that can be used at home. This is a unique opportunity to learn how you can better support your child's social-emotional well being by gaining some insight and understanding on MVSD's latest SEL curriculum, Toolbox! What: Parent Education on Toolbox When: Wednesday, May 27th 12-1pm Where: Zoom Meeting info. in the EventBrite Link below! * Please note this presentation is for all MVSD parents (Elementary & Middle School!) Click here for the Presentation link . Mill Valley School District | 415-389-7700 |  contact@mvschools.org |  mvschools.org Follow us on social media!       

    Friday, May 15 2020

  • Pop Up Food Pantry Donation

    Please donate to the Pop Up Food Pantry to help families in need of a little assistance right now. Donations are 100% tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Any donations remaining at the end of the Pop Up Food Pantry will be donated to the Marin Food Bank. Thank you, Mill Valley Council of PTAs Tax ID#: 23-7038340.

    Wednesday, May 06 2020

  • PTA Donation Test 3

    This is another test to see if the external fundraising link will work.

    Tuesday, May 05 2020

  • Mill Valley School District Newsletter - Pop Up Food...

    Thank you for your Feedback! Thank you for providing your feedback in last week’s Remote Learning Parent Input Survey. If you haven’t had a chance to fill that out but wish to, you can fill it out below. As you may have read, the Bay Area County Health Departments announced that they are extending the shelter-in-place for the month of May. We have yet to receive definitive information from the County or State levels regarding changes or regulations for next school year, but we will be sure to inform you once we receive that information. We will continue to move forward with a continuous improvement mindset and a focus on making decisions that have positive outcomes for our students. Please read the "Future Planning" section below for more details. As a reminder, you can view our FAQ page to answer questions you may have, and you can submit additional questions in the form linked on that page. We consider all of your input and feedback and are working with a collaborative mindset, considering the variety of needs among our families.  Board of Trustees Meetings We invite you to join us at our Board Meetings. The next board meeting will take place remotely Thursday, May 14th  at 6:00 pm .  To access the meeting, please visit this page at 5:45 pm on May 14th. You may view the full board meeting calendar on our website . Please access board meeting agendas on Agenda Online . Pop Up Food Pantry This Friday at Tam High, Including Links to Volunteer Our first week’s pop-up pantry food distribution at Tam High was a resounding success and together we are continuing to feed our community. By joining forces with Tam High and the Marin Food Bank, we were able to give away 180 bags of food.  This partnership will continue and we will be distributing food again this Friday from 11-2 in the drop off lane at Tam, 700 Miller Ave. No need to sign up—200 bags of food will be packed and ready to go. Simply swing by and our volunteers will load you up!  If you can't pick up, please fill out this form by 9:00 AM Friday and bags will be delivered to your door. Thank you to the Mill Valley PTAs for kicking off this effort 2 weeks ago at MVMS and for continuing to support this new collaboration with volunteers and financial assistance. Once again this week, the PTAs are purchasing food to supplement the offerings from the Marin Food Bank. This week we also have a special shout out to the Mill Valley Rotary Club , for donating 2 rolls of toilet paper for each bag! Next week, the PTAs will begin a fundraising effort to continue to supplement the bags. Stay tuned for that and if you would like to volunteer to help, click here .  Students 15 and up are welcome to volunteer from 9:00-11:00. For questions about volunteering, email our volunteer coordinator . For questions about donating,   email our donation coordinator . If you can’t pick up, but are in need of food, please fill out this form or email our delivery coordinator   if you have specific questions. Principal Challenge Submissions Last week, the elementary principals announced their challenge for families to decorate the front of their house, front door, driveway, etc. with their school logo or colors. We’ve received some incredible submissions - take a look in this video ! State Requirements Update Given the uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact California’s response has had on a local educational agency’s (LEA’s) ability to meaningfully engage with stakeholders, Executive Order N-56-20 was established. This Executive Order extended the deadline for adoption of the 2020–21 LCAP from July 1, 2020, to December 15, 2020. Please see additional FAQs here . Yellow School Bus Information The Yellow School Bus program will likely not be available for the 2020-21 school year. There are two key issues that lead us in this direction. The first is the potential restriction on ridership for the fall. As of now, Marin Transit is allowing 8 riders per bus. The second is funding. While we were prepared to fund the bussing needs for this upcoming year, we did not expect the need for additional busses based on the current 8 rider maximum capacity. There remain many unknowns in local, state, and federal restrictions under development related to student safety in high number or close proximity groups which may affect school bus use. There is an opportunity for parents to make a public comment at the May 14 board meeting. The board will determine their final budget decision at the May 27 Budget Workshop. Regardless, we are still focused on how kids are traveling to school, as well as the potential traffic impacts that occur in our city. We are committed to our partnership with Safe Routes to School, and their staff are currently working on safe routes education and carpooling guidance. We will leverage these resources to the fullest. We will help facilitate connections for families to pair and create neighborhood carpools. As we close out this school year, Marin Transit will provide bus pass refunds. The Mill Valley School District and the City of Mill Valley are committed to our partnership and will continue to support and serve our community. We will continue to work together to keep Mill Valley safe and healthy, both physically and financially.  Troubleshooting Technology For families with MVSD iPads at home, please use these troubleshooting tips if you encounter problems on the devices. There are several suggestions that may resolve problems without needing additional support. If you do need support from the MVSD Tech Department, please email  ipadsupport@mvschools.org and include the asset tag number on the back of the device, along with a detailed description of the specific issue you are encountering. Our Tech Dept is working hard to support our staff and students, and they will get back to you as soon as possible. Thank you! Future Planning As you may be aware, yesterday, Governor Newsom commented that California schools may open as early as July 2020. While there is no definitive change to the school year start date, districts across California and the United States are preparing for what the reopening of our schools will look like and what changes will be necessary to ensure safety and continued learning. Governor Newsom outlined six critical indicators that will guide the State of California in making modifications to shelter in place orders. On April 28, he identified four phases   for lifting the shelter in place orders including schools as a part of phase 2 “Lower Risk Workplaces.” The Mill Valley School District is planning for what the 2020-2021 school year will look like, with a potential start as early as July. Some physical distancing restrictions will likely be in place, and the start of the school year will not look like a “normal” pre-pandemic time in school, with operations happening in phases. Some modifications we are considering include: Proactively screening students and staff for symptoms Avoiding large gatherings and maintaining social distancing keeping in mind Hallways Lunch/recess Sporting events Assemblies Modified schedules to accommodate reduced class sizes (in person) - this could be 20-50% of normal class sizes in the classroom at one time Stable cohorts of smaller groups of students Integrating distance learning regularly Mixing distance and in-person lessons Staff training to reduce the risk of exposure, such as disinfecting practices Periodic school closures may occur due to outbreak of infection and/or additional shelter in place orders Technology procurement to accommodate continuous learning and a blended format for all students  Before and after school programs will need modifications depending on demand and physical distancing requirements Please know that we are carefully considering all factors in determining what school will look like for the 2020-2021 school year and how this will impact our families, staff, and students. We are analyzing guidance from the state and county as it pertains to our local needs. Additionally, all decisions regarding school calendars and processes for teaching and learning are to be discussed with our bargaining units and determined collectively and collaboratively. We will provide further updates including detailed information regarding logistics and safety measures for the 2020-2021 school year. As always, thank you for your partnership during this challenging and unique time.  Mill Valley School District | 415-389-7700 | contact@mvschools.org | mvschools.org Follow us on social media!       

    Wednesday, Apr 29 2020

  • April 2, 2020 Board Meeting Highlights

    Board Meeting Highlights April 2, 2020 Board of Trustees Remote Regular Meeting To view attachments related to the presentations summarized below, please view the  board meeting agenda . Consent Item: Revision to 2020-21 and 2021-22 School Calendars Revisions to the 2020-21  and 2021-22 board approved school calendars were approved to reflect the incorporation of contingency days in the event of Public Safely Power Shut-offs (PSPS). If the contingency plan is not required, the calendar will revert to professional development days (PD) as indicated in January and March of each calendar year. October PD days are moved to January for 2020-21 and 2021-22. January 15, 2021 Contingency Day in lieu of scheduled Non Student Day January 14, 2022 Contingency Day in lieu of scheduled Non Student Day March 19, 2021 Contingency Day in lieu of scheduled Non Student Day March 11, 2022 Contingency Day  in lieu of scheduled Non Student Day Resolution #17-19/20: Regarding Emergency Actions by the Superintendent - COVID-19 The board granted Dr. Kimberly Berman authority to act on the best interests of the District during the COVID-19 emergency. The board ratified the decision of the Superintendent to close schools on March 16, 2020 through May 1, 2020 due to COVID-19. FEMA Designation of Applicants Agent Resolution #18-19/20 The board granted Dr. Kimberly Berman authority to apply for grants from FEMA for reimbursable expenses caused by the COVID-19 virus outbreak. Day of the Employee - May 6, 2020 Each year, the Board of Trustees designates a day to celebrate all Mill Valley School District staff. This year's date is May 6. Second Reading of Board Policy and Administrative Regulation BP/AR 0460 - Local Control and Accountability Plan The Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) is a comprehensive plan that must include annual goals and actions aligned with eight state priorities and the district budget to improve outcomes for all students. This is the second reading of the Board Policy (BP) and Administrative Regulation (AR) for the LCAP. The BP provides information about the plan development and monitoring of the LCAP and the AR provides information about the required content of the LCAP. The Board approved the second reading of the BP and the AR that govern the LCAP. First Readings - BP4033 & BP5146 Board policies on Lactation Accommodation and Married/Pregnant/Parenting Students were presented for a first reading, based on state policy templates. The Lactation policy will be brought back for an additional first reading after edits are made. Bond Feasibility Discussion Dr. Kimberly Berman and the Board of Trustees continued the discussion of the feasibility of a school improvement bond measure for the Mill Valley School District. While we are currently in remote learning status, we continue to have significant facility needs. If the Board decides to move forward with considering the feasibility of a bond measure, next steps include an additional community survey to poll for sentiment, then a vote by the board would be needed to move forward before the August deadline to file for the November election. It will also be necessary to reach out to community leaders and organizations, but in a creative way due to the shelter-in-home order. Approval of Level 1 Developer Fee Study The Developer Fee Justification Study (Level 1 Fee) meets the legal requirement of the Government Codes 65995 et seq. and 66001 and Education Code 17620 which incorporates the requirements of Senate Bill 50, also known as the Leroy Greene School Facilities Act of 1998. The Fee Study was discussed, followed by an open public hearing, during which no public comment took place. Resolution #15-19/20: Resolution of the Board of Trustees of the Mill Valley School District Regarding the Levy and Collection of Level I School Facilities Fees In January 2020, the State Allocation Board established fees of $4.08 per square foot for residential construction and $0.66 per square foot for commercial/industrial construction. This is an increase from the District's current developer fees of $3.79 per square foot of residential construction and $0.61 per square foot of commercial/industrial construction. It should be noted that the developer fees are shared with the Tamalpais Union High School District of 30% less 3% of total developer fees for administrative costs. These funds are held outside of the general operating budget and are specifically for facility expenses. The Board approved the fees established by the State Allocation Board. The next Developer Fee Study for a justification study is January 2022. Resolution Adopting Informal Bidding Procedures Pursuant to the Uniform Public Construction Cost Account Act  The Mill Valley School District requests the Board of Trustees adopt uniform construction cost accounting procedures and informal bidding procedures. Public agencies that elect to become subject to the Act must adopt informal bidding procedures to govern the selection of contractors to perform public projects pursuant to Public Contract Code section 22032. This will allow the district to streamline the bidding process for purchases above $217K. Resolution #16 - 19/20 was approved. Tam Valley Elementary School Roofing Project The bid for roofing is awarded to Pioneer Contractors, Inc. in the amount of $388,330.00 to replace the roofs on all portable classrooms and coat areas of the main building of Tamalpais Valley Elementary School. The project is considered essential construction and would occur over the summer.  Strawberry Point Elementary School Roofing Project The bid for roofing is awarded to State Roofing Systems, Inc., in the amount of $542,888.00 to replace the roofs on all portable classrooms and coat areas of the main building of Strawberry Point Elementary School. This project will utilize Fund 40 dollars. This project was approved by the Board of Trustees. Board meeting dates and agendas .  Mill Valley School District | 415-389-7700 | communications@mvschools.org | mvschools.org 

    Saturday, Apr 04 2020