Attendance is up Across the District
Great News -- attendance is up across the district! Not only does this mean students learning more, but also increased money for Berkeley Unified from the state. The recent report of increased Average Daily Attendance (ADA) rates across the District is akin to a meaningful pat on the back to administrators, teachers, staff and families who have successfully coaxed elementary, middle, and high school students to attend school more days this year. District-wide K-12 attendance in Berkeley Unified grew from 93.8 % to 95.3% - an increase of 1.5%. This is equivalent to approximately 148 more students in class each day than was anticipated based on prior attendance rates. Read more.... Frequently Asked Questions about Attendance |
Many Teacher Lay-off Notices Rescinded 
Probationary ("pre-tenure") teachers who received notice of possible lay-off in March due to projected budget shortages have received official word that they can shred the pink slips.
Declining revenues for public education are challenging school districts across the state to make ends meet. Teachers are our most valuable asset. This year uncertain financial conditions forced our district to notify probationary teachers of possible lay-off. Thankfully the unanticipated increase in student attendance this year helped cut the district's projected budget shortfall for next year and all notices have been rescinded.
Unfortunately there are still some "temporary" teachers who have not been provided contracts for the new school year because of budget and enrollment uncertainties.
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Budget Update
New actual and projected attendance and enrollment figures along with budget saving measures recommended by staff and the Superintendent's Budget Advisory have placed the actual budget cuts for the fiscal year starting July 1, 2012 at $1.6 million (and not the previously stated $3 million plus that was first considered).
More details in the May 9th Board Packet p.54
With the Governor's May Revise budget coming out Monday, May 14th there may be further revisions. In addition, two state ballot propositions designed to dramatically affect public education funding are likely to appear on the November 2012 ballot.
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Superintendent recommends Two Way Immersion (TWI) School Citing compelling pedagogical and logistical reasons for the move, Superintendent Huyett presented his recommendation to the School Board to consolidate the TWI programs at three schools into one TWI School at LeConte Elementary starting in Fall 2013. His recommendation was informed by both the work of the TWI Task Force and the English Learner Workgroup. Forums are being planned to dialogue with the community and a Board vote on consolidation is likely to take place at the June 6th School Board Meeting. You can attend a presentation and ask your questions:LeConte May 29 6:00 p.m. Rosa Parks June 4 6:00 p.m.
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Malcolm X Named Distinguished School (Again!)
 | | Malcolm X Principal and staff recognized at School Board Meeting, May 9th |
Congratulations to the teachers, staff, students, and families at Malcolm X Elementary School for receiving designation as a California Distinguished School for the third time. Associate Superintendent Neil Smith commended Malcolm X for the "high quality teaching and articulated curriculum, integration of the arts, strong leadership, and welcoming community" that are hallmarks of their success.
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Don't Forget - English Learner Parent Event 
An English Learner (EL) Parent Forum is taking place Friday, May 11 from 5:45 - 9:00 p.m at Rosa Parks Elementary (920 Allston Way). This is an event to inform the EL Parent Community about the District's Master Plan for English Learners. The evening will include student performances, informational fair, and prizes. Dinner and childcare are provided. Registration form in English and Spanish on our blog.
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Garden and Cooking Nutrition Program Staff to hold Informational MeetingBUSD Nutrition Services Director Marni Posey and BUSD Cooking and Garden Nutrition Program Supervisor Leah Sokolofski will conduct an informational meeting for anyone who wants to understand the implementation of the Board's decision to fund garden and cooking at Malcolm X, Rosa Parks, and Washington during the 2012-2013 school year. Date: Tuesday, May 22 6:15-7:30 p.m.Location: Malcolm X Library, 1731 Prince Street. Read the related story that ran in the last A+ eNews.
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Incoming 7th Graders - Tdap Alert California school immunization law requires ALL students entering 7th grade to show proof of a whooping cough (pertussis) booster shot, called Tdap, before entering school. Students who fail to meet this requirement will not be allowed to attend school starting on Wednesday, August 29, 2012. Help jump start this effort now by making sure your incoming 7th grader meets the requirements. More information...
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Facilities Naming Committee Formed - Still Need Members for Surplus Facilities Committees  | | BUSD property on Gilman could be considered surplus |
The Board's Facilities Naming Committee has been formed and will begin the process of naming the Derby Street Athletic Field. Please consider serving on the Board's Surplus Facilities Committee. The application process has been extended until May 28th. Read more...
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LEARNS Afterschool Program Hosts Showcase  Berkeley LEARNS Spring Showcase features visual and performing arts by students in all 13 afterschool programs. All families welcome. May 18th6:30-7:00 p.m. gallery walk 7:00-8:30 p.m. student performances Location: King Middle School, 1781 Rose St.
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Upcoming School Board Meetings
May 25th at 7:30 p.m.
Location: 2134 MLK Jr. Way
Agendas posted 72 hours prior on this webpage.
BSEP P&O Committee
May 15th from 7:15 - 9:30 p.m.
Location: Malcolm X School, 1731 Prince St.
Agendas posted 72 hours prior on this webpage.
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