3/6 Weekly Newsletter

Navigating Challenges: Layoffs, Safety Concerns, and innovation at PVUSD

Mar 07, 2025

¡Hola Amigos!

Imagine a child arriving at school, their stomach growling from a missed breakfast, their heart heavy with worry. Their parent just lost their job, or maybe they're working tirelessly in the fields, trying to make ends meet. This is the reality for too many of our students. Shootings in Watsonville, economic anxieties fueled by inflation, and the ripple effects of layoffs are creating a climate of fear and uncertainty. And to add to this, some employees are even wearing MAGA hats, creating an environment of hostility for our students who come from mixed-status families, leaving them feeling targeted and unsafe. Here in PVUSD, where we're a major employer, these layoffs aren't just statistics – they're deeply personal. They strike at the heart of our community, leaving families struggling to provide basic necessities like food and shelter. How can we expect our students to focus on learning when their basic needs aren't met, and they don't feel safe and welcome?

As your Trustee, I've seen firsthand the dedication of our teachers and staff. They go above and beyond to support our students, providing not just academic instruction but also emotional support and a sense of stability. Now, more than ever, our students need this lifeline. They need social-emotional counseling, they need caring adults to guide them through these turbulent times, and they need the resources to thrive.

That's why I've voted against these layoffs. Because cutting essential services now is like cutting off a climber's rope in the middle of a steep ascent. It's not just fiscally irresponsible; it's morally wrong. We have a duty to protect our most vulnerable – our children. We have a duty to invest in their future, not diminish it.

As I promised when you elected me, I will always stand with our students, our families, and our labor unions. I will fight for equitable resources, for arts and media programs that nurture creativity, and for a school district that truly puts students first. I will fight for a school district where every student feels safe, welcome, and valued.

Now, let's get into the rest of the newsletter and discuss how we can work together to build a brighter future for PVUSD.

Next Board Meetings

Regular Board Meeting
Date: Wednesday, March 26
Time: 6:00 PM (Closed Session starts at 5:00 PM)
Agenda: Access Here
Agenda will be released on Friday, March 21

Did you know: The Nahua, or Mexica, people believed in the concept of Teotl, a dynamic and multifaceted divine energy. Teotl manifested in three primary forms: Ollin (movement and change), Malanalia (transformation and growth), and Nehpantlia (balance and duality). This philosophical framework guided their understanding of the world and their place within it, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all things. Understanding these concepts helps us appreciate the rich cultural heritage that informs our community.
Learn more here

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Why Arts and Technology are Essential in Our Schools

It's disheartening, but predictable, that arts programs are often the first to face cuts. Yet, arts teachers do far more than teach skills; they share their passion and craft. I remember my own experience at Pajaro Middle School. In 7th grade, I was excited about wood shop, only to find it replaced by a computer lab the following year. While I embraced technology, I lost the opportunity to develop valuable hands-on skills.

My mother, aunt, and uncle also attended Pajaro, learning essential life skills like cooking, sewing, carpentry, and auto mechanics – skills that remain relevant today. I was fortunate to be part of the first generation fully immersed in the web, learning about social media and technology. However, not everyone thrives in a digital environment. Many students excel with hands-on, creative pursuits.

We must bridge the gap between technology and traditional crafts. Silicon Valley sold us the promise of the web, and now artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the landscape. However, let's remember who fuels this technology: artists. When AI generates images or text, it draws from the creativity of countless artists.

This is why I believe the arts are the next major job sector. Artists bring unique and critical perspectives, challenging our worldviews through acting, painting, and creation. For neurodivergent students, the arts provide a safe haven for self-expression. As someone who embraces both technology and the arts, I will continue to advocate for their importance and ensure they receive the recognition and appreciation they deserve, just as we do with our sports programs.

Upcoming Events & Meetings

Virtual Town Hall

Date: Sundays (& some Thursdays!)
Time: 8:00PM
Location: @medina4pvusd on Instagram
Details: Tune in on Sundays for a live Q&A on Instagram, where Trustee Gabriel Medina will answer questions and discuss issues that matter to the community. All perspectives are welcome—let’s have a conversation!
Add to google calendar
Want to be a guest? Email me at gabriel_medina@pvusd.net with the topic you would like to discuss.

The Green Party of Monterey County

Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Join the zoom here on the day of the meeting!
Details: Join the Green Party of Monterey County for our first meeting of the year. Meet other Greens, help determine our county priorities, and learn about what Greens are doing in our area.
Add to google calendar

Virtual Academy: Forward Thinking

Last night, we had a difficult conversation about shutting down Pacific Coast Charter School (PCCS). I know many students, including one of my own cousins, who have benefited tremendously from this gem in our district. It was disheartening to learn that the school faced challenges, including high principal turnover, which hindered their ability to maintain their charter. However, I was relieved to hear that we're transitioning PCCS to a virtual academy program. This innovative approach will provide students with the same, if not more, resources.

Students will still be able to participate in after-school sports and clubs, and I'm committed to ensuring they can access dual enrollment courses at Cabrillo College. What excites me most is the potential for our migrant students. They will no longer face learning disruptions during the off-season when work in the fields is scarce. This virtual academy offers a consistent learning environment that supports them wherever they go.

Furthermore, students won't have to choose between work and school; they can do both. As we face economic uncertainties, I'm seeing more students enter the workforce to support their families. I want to assure them that we will support their education, just as we would any other student in a traditional setting.

This transition also presents a fantastic opportunity for the district to collaborate with programs like Sueños, offering internships and apprenticeships. This will help students build valuable work experience and develop strong resumes, giving them an economic and knowledge-based advantage.

This is forward-thinking and solution-based. This is how I envision us approaching significant decisions. We can't simply cut or remove programs and staff without a plan, and I hope we continue this approach moving forward. Many schools, including Cabrillo, are adapting their courses to online or asynchronous formats, reaching a wider range of students. Let's continue to be innovative and prioritize our students' needs.

Community Questions

I'm always eager to hear from you and answer any questions you might have about our schools. That's why I'm starting a new section in this newsletter called "Community Questions."

How it Works:

Ask Away: Anything you've been wondering about? School policies, programs, budget decisions, upcoming events – send me your questions!
Submit Early: To give me time to research and get you the best possible answers, please submit your questions by early in the week.
Get Answers: I'll share my responses in the following week's newsletter.

This is your chance to get information straight from the source and have your voice heard. Hit the ‘Join chat’ button below!

In the News

Local

PVUSD Board Votes to Close Pacific Coast Charter School
The Pajaro Valley Unified School District Board has decided to shut down Pacific Coast Charter School due to budget constraints and declining enrollment.
PVUSD Chief Business Officer Resigns
Jenny Im, the Chief Business Officer of Pajaro Valley Unified School District, has submitted her resignation amid ongoing budgetary challenges and public scrutiny. She will remain through June to assist with the current budget cycle.
Two Arrested on Guns and Ammo Charges in Watsonville
Watsonville Police arrested two individuals in separate incidents involving firearms and ammunition, highlighting ongoing public safety efforts in the community.
Trump Viewing Party Draws Supporters, Counter-Protest
A viewing party for President Trump's public address at a Watsonville restaurant attracted over 100 supporters and prompted a counter-protest outside, highlighting the community's political divisions.
A Message of Peace
Community leaders in Watsonville are promoting peace and unity following recent incidents of violence, emphasizing the importance of coming together during challenging times.
Aptos High School Community Rallies Against Proposed Board Cuts
Students, parents, and staff at Aptos High School are uniting to oppose proposed budget cuts by the school board, emphasizing the potential negative impact on educational quality.

State

After-School Programs in California May Face Funding Cuts
Students across California are urging state leaders to maintain funding for after-school programs, emphasizing their importance in providing safe and enriching environments beyond regular school hours.
Impact of Federal Push to 'End DEI' on California
The U.S. Department of Education's initiative to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs could significantly affect California's educational institutions, which have integrated DEI into their core policies.
California Sues Trump Administration Over Education Grant Cuts
The state of California has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration in response to cuts in education grants, arguing that the reductions harm essential programs.

National

Trump's Proposal to Dismantle the Education Department
President Trump has proposed dismantling the U.S. Department of Education, a move that could have far-reaching implications for federal education funding and policy enforcement nationwide.
Potential Impact on Student Loans if Education Department Closes
The proposed closure of the Department of Education raises concerns about the future management of federal student loans and the potential effects on borrowers.
Democratic-Led States Sue Over Trump Cuts to Teacher Training Funding
Several Democratic-led states have filed a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration's cuts to teacher training funding, citing concerns over educational quality.
S.F. State to Cut Three Sports Teams to Help Close Giant Budget Gap
San Francisco State University plans to eliminate three sports teams as a cost-saving measure to address a significant budget shortfall.
US DoJ to Investigate University of California Over Alleged Antisemitism
The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating the University of California system for potential antisemitic discrimination following campus demonstrations.
A Looming Threat Could Bankrupt California Counties—And It's Not Fires or Trump
California counties face financial challenges due to an influx of lawsuits stemming from a state law expanding the ability to file child sexual abuse claims.
Bay Area College Closures? These Campuses Will Be Hit Hard by Funding Freeze
Several Bay Area community colleges are at risk of closure due to a funding freeze linked to declining enrollment, prompting concerns about access to education.
New California Laws in 2025 Include a Major Crackdown, More Sick Leave
California has enacted new laws for 2025, including increased sick leave and measures to enhance public safety, reflecting the state's legislative priorities.

These are trying times, but together, we can ensure our students receive the support and resources they need to thrive! Take care everyone and I’ll see you at the next meeting.

In unity,

Trustee Medina
PVUSD, Area III

Feel free to email me at gabriel_medina@pvusd.net or leave a voicemail at (831) 331-4208.

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