It's A Wrap

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

May 9, 2025

Joint sustainability committee aligns climate action between Laguna Beach USD and city following state Green Achiever honor

At the joint meeting of the Laguna Beach City Council and Laguna Beach Unified School District Board of Education held May 7, a new joint committee was established to align and strengthen the city and school district’s efforts on sustainability. The committee brings together city and district staff to explore shared goals and collaborate on local climate action initiatives.

The launch of the committee coincides with LBUSD receiving a 2025 California Green Ribbon Schools (CA-GRS) Green Achiever Award—the highest level of recognition awarded by the California Department of Education. Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services Chad Mabery, Ed.D., Director of Facilities and Sustainability Ryan Zajda, and Coordinator of Environmental Literacy Gloria Harwood attended the ceremony last week at the San Mateo County Office of Education, where State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond presented the award. Laguna Beach USD was one of only five school districts in California to receive this distinction.

The CA-GRS Green Achiever Award recognizes schools and districts for demonstrating achievement in three areas: reducing environmental impact and costs, improving health and wellness, and providing effective environmental education. Laguna Beach USD’s selection follows the Board of Education’s 2022 adoption of a resolution committing the district to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. In 2025, the city of Laguna Beach adopted a Climate Action and Adaptation Plan aligned with California’s statewide goal of net-zero emissions by 2045. The newly formed joint committee establishes a formal structure for coordination between city and district staff on sustainability initiatives.

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Program offers mentorship and support for first-generation college students

At the May 8 regular meeting of the Board of Education, Coordinator of Family Engagement Ivonne Redard presented an overview of the First Gen Leaders program, which supports high school students who are the first in their families to attend college. Students shared personal stories that illustrated the impact of mentorship, peer support, and leadership opportunities offered through the program. Survey results from Laguna Beach High School show that 19% of the Class of 2024 and 20% of the Class of 2023 identified as first-generation college students.

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City and school district to draft agreement on shared pool use

At a recent joint meeting, the Laguna Beach City Council and Board of Education directed staff to develop a memorandum of understanding outlining shared use and operational costs for the community pool operated by the Laguna Beach Unified School District. At its Feb. 11 meeting, the City Council confirmed it will not pursue a separate pool project and will instead focus on shared use of the existing facility.

LBUSD will lead the full modernization of the pool, with construction expected to begin in March 2026. The renovated facility will feature a 45-meter pool with 17 lap lanes, maintain the existing shallow area for multiple uses, and include ADA-compliant accessibility features.

Watch from 41:16

Board approves Epson printer upgrade to cut energy use by 75%

At the May 8 meeting, the Board of Education approved the purchase of Epson inkjet printers, which use heat-free technology to reduce electricity consumption by 75% compared to the district’s current laser printers. Over five years, this transition is projected to save more than 12,700 kWh of electricity, supporting LBUSD’s sustainability goals and reducing operational costs.

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From the classroom to the community: Thurston Middle School students take on water pollution

Seventh graders at Thurston Middle School participated in an internship program with Poseidon Education, funded by Orange County Public Works’ H2OC Stormwater Program. As part of their STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) curriculum, students spent a month exploring ways to mitigate stormwater pollution.

Through classroom lessons, a tour of the South Orange County Wastewater Authority facility, and hands-on data collection from TMS stormwater drains, students engaged with real-world environmental challenges. This immersive experience went beyond textbook learning, giving them practical insights into how pollution affects their local community and a deeper understanding of their role in protecting the environment. Their findings informed thoughtful proposals aimed at reducing pollution, and each student earned a certificate of completion.

Community invited to celebrate student and staff achievements at June 5 board meeting

The community is invited to attend the June 5 regular meeting of the Board of Education, which will include districtwide recognition of students and staff. The event will honor contributions and accomplishments from across all school sites.

Watch the Board Meeting

The next regularly scheduled board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 6 p.m. Visit lbusd.org/board for more information.

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