10:06Call to Order1min
1.1Roll CallProcedural
20:06Welcome1min
2.1Welcome by the School Board President, Cecilia MárquezProcedural
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30:06Changes to the Agenda1min
3.1Additions, Deletions, or Modifications to the AgendaDiscussion
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40:06Approval of Agenda (Action Required)1min
4.1Approval of AgendaAction
50:06Information2hr
5.1Update on Workforce HousingInformation
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Rationale: It is well documented that California’s affordable housing crisis is affecting the ability of school districts to recruit and retain a top-tier workforce. As some districts begin building workforce housing projects, they will realize a competitive advantage over districts in high-cost areas that do not offer a housing benefit. In June 2019, the Redwood City School District (RCSD) Board of Trustees unanimously approved a feasibility study. That decision set in motion a four-year process to determine if RCSD should commit to a new housing project, and under what circumstances. A housing needs survey of RCSD staff was conducted in Nov. 2020. Of the 360 employees who responded, 220 indicated that they were not homeowners and 165 expressed their interest in district-sponsored housing. Recently, the Board of Trustees determined that developing the current district office property in downtown Redwood City is a viable way for RCSD to address its affordable housing crisis. Please join us at Hoover Community School Gymnasium on Thursday, Nov. 2 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM to learn more about this initiative and hear what a local high school district has learned by building and operating its own apartment complex. Financial Impact: None at this moment. Submission for Approval Prepared by: John R. Baker, Ed.D., Superintendent Approved by: John R. Baker, Ed.D., Superintendent §
61:40:50Oral Communication
Chris R. (4min) — Argued that using Prop 39 bond funds for workforce housing violates the California Constitution, questioned whether teacher housing actually serves teachers effectively, and suggested parcel taxes or housing vouchers as better alternatives.
Elizabeth Starks (2min) — Expressed support for teachers but emphasized that children and families — especially in the Spanish-speaking community — need more after-school spaces and resources, and urged the district to focus on hiring dedicated teachers.
Maria Stockton (2min) — Speaking as a classified union leader, she defended the essential role of classified staff, shared that her own rent had risen far beyond any district raise, and expressed strong support for workforce housing as a relief for dedicated long-term employees.
Lupe Guzman (2min) — As principal of Hoover Community School, she emphasized that all school staff are vital, described how staff cannot afford to live locally, and expressed support for the housing project as a way to rebuild community and reduce staff stress.
Yolanda Richardson (0min) — As a South San Francisco school board visitor, she asked about the quality and durability of the Jefferson housing construction and how rent revenues are handled relative to the bond and general fund.
Janet Coches (1min) — As a parent, she shared that her child lost a beloved fifth-grade teacher who left due to rent affordability, described ongoing transportation challenges for students, and asked for support in keeping teachers in the community.
Erin Washburn (2min) — As president of the Redwood City Teachers Association, she confirmed that teachers genuinely want this program, shared personal examples of teachers burdened by housing costs, and expressed strong support for moving the project forward.
6.1If you have public comment related to the Study Session item, please complete a Speakers Card (available at the entrance) and give it to the secretary.
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SPEAKING AT BOARD MEETINGS: The public is encouraged to speak to the Board on issues of concern whether or not the issue(s) is/are on the agenda. To address the Board, please complete a Speakers Card (available at the entrance) and give it to the secretary. Public comments are limited to 3 minutes per person per topic unless otherwise noted. §
71:58:10Adjournment (Action Required)1min
7.1Adjourn the MeetingAction
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