FOLSOM CORDOVA, CA (MPG) – Folsom Cordova Unified School District (“FCUSD”) Board took almost five hours Thursday night, January 18th, following a one-hour closed session, to recognize school athletes, hear public speakers voice support for establishing Indigenous People’s Day (replacing Columbus Day), and being walked through of an extensive timeline to hire a new school superintendent to replace Dr. Sarah Koligian. Public comment acknowledged Dr. Koligian’s service.

McPherson & Jacobson, LLC, Executive Placement and Development firm of Omaha, NE took a big slice of the evening to present how the Board will participate in the ultimate selection of a new school superintendent. The two presenters explained that additional committees would be formed for the selection process. Board President Tim Hooey and Member David Reid sought clarification that no one other than board members had authority to recommend candidates for selection, and were assured this was so, though the firm’s presenters repeatedly remarked the other committees would make recommendations on the candidates at various steps. Eventually there would be two days of intense interviews with final candidates with the selection to be concluded by July 1st.

The Title VI program to establish a Native American Studies course, A/K/A American Indians Education, received voice support from students and adult speakers alike. Comments were that it would address education disparities of the past, celebrate the rich cultures of Indigenous people, and recognize their history and contributions. It was said that such studies could be transformative while embracing and conserving Native American cultural roots.

Again, visitors encouraged the Board to find a way to retain the Montessori school model in the District. One parent commented that to lose the program felt “like a step backward.” Another reported “Early childhood education for 3–4-year-olds has shown returns 9 to 10 times over in producing later academic success.” Keeping children together from early on was emphasized.

Peter Maroon recognized Fall Sports Teams and Coaches by names, as well as setting out their achievements. The presentation concluded by noting that no student was put on academic probation this year. The need for school construction sooner rather than later was again raised, with Sutter School emphasized. It was suggested smaller bonds might be an option, and utilizing old school plans and other things to save money for construction costs be considered.

Speakers indicated that Folsom and Sutter Highs can’t wait until 2029 to deal with overcrowding. Emphasis was on prioritizing construction, with a speaker commenting that a high school built in Folsom has never been done, and “shoving students in portables does not solve the problem.” Another speaker talked of costs, indicating there might be a range from $74 million up to $100 million for a 1000 pupil high school; for example, Hollister, CA is seeing a 1400 student school built for $200 million.

The Board unanimously approved a motion creating a School Facility Improvement District (SFID) #3 Subcommittee. Comm. Reid asked that it consider creative and outside the box solutions for SFID#3, while also questioning. “Are we creating another level of bureaucracy to making a timely decision?”

A report was given on Folsom High’s Zero Period Course Offerings, indicating it was a successful effort starting with eight zero courses, expanded to 12, and it was hoped it could be further expanded. Other interests and concerns of students and teachers were mentioned.

Board Member Chris Clark indicated the Clark Memorial Scholarship would be offered again with the winner receiving $500 but this year he and Mrs. Clark were adding an incentive of a second place award of $300.