School Board Meeting Wrap-Up

The following is from the Laguna Beach School District Board of Education meeting on June 28.

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Board supports Supt. Smith

Board President Theresa O’Hare said the board recently reviewed Supt. Sherine Smith during her first year in the position.

Smith prepared a presentation to the board, discussing the different strategic goal areas for the schools.

The board is enthusiastically supportive of Smith, O’Hare said.

“It’s a tough gig, and you’ve done a very good job,” said board member Ketta Brown.

Jenkins mentioned that she appreciated Smith’s style. Smith came into the position without an ego or wanting to stamp her name on district issues and helped move important goals forward, she said.

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Former high school principal praised

Although LBHS Principal Don Austin, who recently resigned, couldn’t make it to the meeting, Smith made a point to congratulate his work for the high school.

“He took the high school to new heights academically, athletically and with activities,” he said. “We wish him well with Huntington Beach Union High School District.”

Smith said the board gave Austin a plaque and held a small “send-off” event with other staff on Monday night.

Board Clerk Betsy Jenkins mentioned the art that Austin brought to the school, adding multiple murals to the school’s facades.

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Looking forward to Culverhouse

Board members, Smith and visitor Bruce Hopping all gave acknowledgement to newly promoted Thurston Principal Joanne Culverhouse.

Culverhouse is replacing Austin as Laguna Beach High School principal.

Smith said that Culverhouse “was energizing to talk to.”