School board votes to switch meeting dates to avoid conflict with council
By Joann Groff joann@theacorn.com

The Conejo Valley Unifed School District Board of Education has voted to switch meeting days to the first and fourth Tuesdays of the month so as not to clash as frequently with City Council meetings.

The T.O. City Council typically meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month.

Board member Dolores Didio said that, after meeting on the second and fourth weeks of the month for so long, changing one meeting was a compromise for those who still wanted that schedule.

“We’ve really always done second and fourth, so changing one meeting, that allows people to go to City Council meetings,” Didio said. “And it allows them to come to our meetings if they so desire. It accommodates the people who wanted to go to those meetings and those of us who wanted to keep it as (it was).”

Dorothy Beaubien said the change will mean “staff and city can have the opportunity to have better communication.”

The pilot program will begin in July.

“I think it’s a good idea because it allows us to be involved in City Council, but it is a little strange from a business point of view,” said Pat Phelps, referring to the possibility of meeting in back-to-back weeks or going three weeks without meeting.

Superintendent Mario Contini expressed concern for district staff members, who would have less time for preparation when the board meets two weeks in a row. He asked for staff feedback in the coming months.

Last week’s meeting was also the time for new officer appointments. Phelps stepped down as president, and after being nominated by Beaubien, Didio was voted in as the new president. Beaubien is now vice president, and Tim Stephens will serve as clerk.

Stephens said Phelps has been a “superstar board president.”

“For those who have sat in that chair, they know how hard it is,” Stephens said.

Phelps joked as she moved from her center seat.

“My reign is over,” she said.