Pacific Grove Unified hosts community partners for ethnic studies curriculum announcement

The Pacific Grove Unified School District (PGUSD) held its third LCAP Community Engagement Meeting on April 5, 2025, aimed at fostering collaboration and input from community members regarding educational services. The meeting was led by Dr. Lawrence Hedquist, the Executive Director of Educational Services, alongside key participants including Miss Brandy Lopez, the incoming ethnic studies teacher.

Dr. Hedquist acknowledged the presence of board clerk Jennifer McNary and highlighted the involvement of various community representatives. Notable attendees included Robert Kikuchi In Gojo and Nancy Wong, representing the Asian American community, and Dr. Joshua Orozco, who supports the Hispanic Latino population. Although Dr. Jeremiah Zungusi was unable to attend, his contributions were acknowledged through a colleague, Miss Mika Okamura.

The meeting's agenda focused on gathering community feedback and discussing the district's educational strategies. Dr. Hedquist emphasized the importance of community engagement in shaping the educational landscape for Pacific Grove students.

As the meeting progressed, participants were encouraged to share their insights and suggestions, reinforcing the district's commitment to inclusivity and responsiveness to community needs. The collaborative effort aims to enhance educational outcomes and ensure that diverse perspectives are considered in the district's planning processes.

The significance of this meeting lies in its role as a platform for community voices, which will inform the district's Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) moving forward. The PGUSD continues to prioritize engagement with its diverse community to create a supportive and effective educational environment.