News from Laguna Beach Unified School District, its teachers, students, staff and Board of Education.

Board begins visioning process to define district excellence

At the July 23 meeting, the Board held its first discussion in a multi-meeting visioning process intended to establish a shared definition of excellence for Laguna Beach Unified and identify the outcomes that will guide future decision-making. The discussion was supported by a white paper prepared by Superintendent Don Austin, Ed.D., which outlined potential areas for Board consideration and emphasized that the process is intended to narrow the district's focus around a common set of priorities rather than create separate initiatives.

Dr. Austin opened the discussion with a story from "Jiro Dreams of Sushi," using it to illustrate the importance of defining excellence by the values and aspirations of the Laguna Beach community rather than by external rankings or measures beyond the district's control. Each Board member then identified the areas they believe warrant further exploration, with the goal of beginning a conversation rather than reaching consensus. Common themes that emerged included instructional technology and healthy screen use, literacy and reading achievement, strengthening and expanding the arts, preserving meaningful student experiences, expanding opportunities for students who fall between intervention and advanced programs, strengthening parent involvement, supporting student well-being, and continuing to improve governance and district communications. The discussion will continue over the next two Board meetings as the Board works toward a shared framework for measuring success and guiding the district's long-term priorities.