Big Bear, CA, May 25, 2011, 2:00pm – At the last regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Trustees for the Bear Valley Unified School District which was held at Big Bear High School, the Board allowed for public comment prior to the closed session meeting to discuss and consider public requests for the reinstatement of Big Bear Middle School Principal, Julie Chamberlin. Ms. Chamberlin was informed last March that she would be relieved of her current position as Principal and would be returning to the classroom for the upcoming school year. Approximately 17 people, consisting of friends and family members of Ms. Chamberlain, as well as BBMS staff, attended the May 18th meeting with several members of the public reading letters that were submitted to the Board on Ms. Chamberlin’s behalf. One suggestion that was made in a letter was to reinstate Ms. Chamberlin on a mentor program whereas she could receive guidance and direction with a scheduled evaluation of her performance the following year. The BVUSD Board retired to closed session for further discussion. In the meantime, a celebratory cake and presentation was given to all present, including the High School Associated Student Body members, in congratulating Big Bear High School Principal, Mike Ghelber, for being awarded the honor of California Distinguished School for 2011. Upon returning at 6:30pm, the start of their regular open session meeting, the Board stated that no action had been taken but they would continue with closed session discussion after the open session was over. During open session, a presentation was given by Patrick Renzi, the new Food Service Supervisor for the District, who is incorporating healthier menu choices for our students including more whole grains, less sodium and sugar and a variety of fruits and vegetables. Additionally, Mr. Renzi is incorporating more environmentally friendly products such as biodegradable food trays that will save money as well. Parents can access the new Child Nutrition website through the school district’s site at bigbear.k12.ca.us for each school’s menu and applications for free and reduced price meals. Also, at last week’s meeting, the Board of Trustees adopted the use of the CaliQity Learning Management System for grades 6-12 as their new on-line learning program. Following the end of the open session, the Board retreated back into closed session to continue discussion in regards to the reinstatement of Julie Chamberlin. No action was taken in that closed session meeting. The Board will reconvene in a special closed session meeting tonight at 5:15pm for discussion regarding a Bear Valley Principal. Although closed session personnel agenda items are not disclosed, it is the assumption that discussion will continue with regards to the potential reinstatement of Ms. Chamberlin as well as to conduct a performance evaluation of Kegham Tashijian the Interim Superintendent. The Board will also discuss the hire of a permanent Superintendent. Open session will begin at 5:15pm this evening at the school district offices at 42271 Moonridge Road in Big Bear Lake to hear public comment on agenda items to be discussed in closed session.
