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Fortuna Elementary School District
Superintendent’s Report
February 2026
Curriculum and Instruction:
As the District approaches the end of the second trimester in late February, our schools continue to focus on monitoring student progress, refining instructional practices, and providing targeted academic support. Teachers are reviewing student data and adjusting instruction to ensure students remain on track as we move into the final trimester of the school year.
Preparation for the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) remains a priority. Students in grades 3rd-8th will participate in English language arts and mathematics assessments, with grades 5th and 8th also completing the science assessment during the April-May testing window. Teachers will meet with students in March to set individualized goals for the upcoming assessment.
The District continues to utilize IXL in grades 1st-8th for ELA and mathematics as a regular instructional tool to support individualized practice and skill development. Teachers are also continuing their professional learning through the Prepared Classroom book study, with an ongoing focus on effective instructional strategies and student engagement.
In addition, staff members are beginning to explore potential English language arts curricula for possible piloting in the coming school year to ensure alignment with updated standards and instructional best practices.
The District’s School Accountability Report Cards (SARCs) for each school are available on the District website at fortunaesd.com, with hard copies available upon request.
Budget:
Governor Newsom’s 2026-27 proposed state budget continues to prioritize funding for TK-12th grade education while acknowledging ongoing economic uncertainty. The proposal includes a 2.41% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for school funding and maintains full support for Universal Transitional Kindergarten, expanded learning programs (ELO-P), and universal school meals. The budget also sets aside reserves in the Proposition 98 Rainy Day Fund to help manage revenue volatility.
At the same time, revenue projections remain uncertain, and there is a difference between the Governor’s revenue assumptions and those projected by the Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO). As the budget process continues toward the May Revision and final adoption, funding levels may change. Districts are encouraged to plan conservatively and closely monitor future budget updates.
Construction and Maintenance:
Interior work on the TTMS project is substantially complete. The fire alarm test has been completed, allowing public use of the multi-lobby for gym access. Flooring is finished and protected, doors have been keyed and checked by maintenance staff, lighting has been programmed with staff training completed, and bathroom accessories and plumbing work are complete. The final remaining interior item is cabinetry, and Pierson Construction is actively working with the subcontractor to resolve material availability so a final handoff date can be established. A change order for the Trophy Room updates is currently being processed, and the Title 24 air balance report is being scheduled.
On the exterior, an alternate Path of Travel plan is in development, with Studio W’s design team scheduled to be on site next week to expedite review. The pedestrian gate conversion to panic hardware remains pending District direction on available options. Awning construction is on hold pending receipt of a Construction Change Directive (CCD) from DSA.
Enrollment for 2026-27:
Enrollment for the 2026-27 school year is now open to new TK-8th-grade students. Families may complete the registration process online by visiting the District website at fortunaesd.com, where enrollment links and additional information are available. Transitional Kindergarten (TK) eligibility applies to children who turn four years old on or before September 1, 2026. Families are encouraged to view the informational video on the District website to learn more about the TK and kindergarten programs at Ambrosini and Walker Schools. Families with children currently enrolled in the District do not need to re-register, as students will be automatically enrolled in the next grade level for the 2026-27 school year. We look forward to welcoming new students and families to our District!
Important Dates:
February 9th-13th Kindness Week
February 16th-20th No School Presidents’ Week Break
February 27th End of 2nd Trimester
Respectfully Submitted,
Amy Betts
Highlights from the 2-12-26 Board Meeting:
Thank you, Mateo Herrera (Fortuna Middle School), for providing an ASB update. Superintendent Betts provided a verbal construction update. Superintendent Betts provided a verbal report on the 2025-2026 LCAP Mid-Year Update. The Board approved the Consent Agenda. The Board approved the revised Comprehensive School Safety Plans for AES, WES, TTMS, and FMS. The Board approved the updated ELOP plan. The Board authorized adding Courtney Sousa as an authorized signer for the student accounts and FRC account and removed Shelby Hunt as a signer for these accounts. The Board approved moving the regular March meeting from Thursday, March 12, 2026, to Tuesday, March 10, 2026. The Board approved converting the three pedestrian gates at Toddy Thomas to panic hardware. The Board approved the following new and revised policies, regulations, and exhibits: BP 0450, AR 0450, BP 1340, AR 1340, BP 1445, AR 1445, BP 5125, AR 5125, BP 5125.1, AR 5125.1, E(1) 5125.1, BP 5145.13, AR 5145.13
Next Regular Board Meeting:
March 10, 2026, 6:30 p.m.
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