During a recent Duarte Unified School District board meeting, community engagement and educational initiatives took center stage. Dan O'Garian, representing Duarte High School, announced the upcoming 11th annual field tournament hosted by the school's band and color guard, scheduled for November 8th. The event will feature performances from 12 bands, including Duarte High School, and will necessitate the closure of Central Avenue from 4 PM to 10 PM. O'Garian encouraged community members to attend and support the local schools.

The board also approved the minutes from the previous meeting and discussed ongoing construction and modernization projects. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the approval of the consent calendar, which passed without any items being pulled for separate consideration.

In a move to enhance community involvement, the board appointed representatives to the Community Education Council (CEC). This council serves as a platform for community members to engage with the school district, providing input on educational initiatives and updates. Board members emphasized the importance of these meetings in fostering communication between the district and the community.

The meeting also included public hearings regarding initial bargaining proposals for upcoming negotiations with the Duarte Unified Education Association (DUEA) and the California School Employees Association (CSEA). These discussions are part of the district's efforts to prepare for the 2024-2025 school year.

Additionally, the board addressed funding applications for the California State Preschool Program and discussed Proposition 28, which focuses on arts and music education in schools. The board's commitment to these initiatives reflects a broader goal of enhancing educational opportunities and community engagement within the district.