South Monterey County Joint Union High School District returns to local control

The South Monterey County Joint Union High School District has regained authority over its own affairs after almost 15 years under state and county oversight. A celebration was held Sept. 30 at King City High School, with State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond among the attendees. The district left state receivership after paying back its emergency state loan and putting in place financial and governance systems meant to head off future money troubles.

Under receivership, the local board's authority is suspended while the state oversees finances. County Superintendent of Schools Deneen Guss said recovery meant more than repaying the loan; the district also had to show it could keep up sound practices over time. She said it met or exceeded all FCMAT standards for school finance. FCMAT's chief executive, Mike Fine, said the district is leaving in a position of strength, unlike other districts that exited while still in fiscal distress. District Superintendent Caroline Cota said the district has grown dual enrollment and career pathways, put money into classrooms and facilities, and widened support for English learners, students with disabilities and student wellness. It also created a student advisory team and a student board member program. A ceremonial gavel was given to board president David Gaboni.

The district has required new board members to take governance training, adopted a governance handbook, and passed a resolution committing to FCMAT standards. Voters in Greenfield and King City are scheduled to decide in November on a proposal to merge the region's three districts into two unified TK-12 districts.