Trustee Update: June 10th Meeting
We had a very long Palomar College Governing Board meeting last night. We began at 3:30pm with closed session items. Our open session started a little after 5pm and went until almost 10pm—a true marathon. I’ll share my notes and the recording link below, but I want to take a moment to reflect on one part of the discussion that really struck me.
During the conversation on our Student Equity Plan, one trustee made a comment I’ve heard all too often lately from conservative circles: “Why make it about someone being Black, someone being Hispanic, someone being gay? Shouldn’t we just hire the best counselors or the best math teachers?” The implication, of course, is that if someone is Black, or Hispanic, or LGBTQ+, then they must not be the “best.” That somehow, if their identity is visible or acknowledged, their qualifications are suspect. We’ve seen this mindset explode into national rhetoric, where people of color and LGBTQ+ professionals are labeled as “DEI hires” and written off as unqualified—regardless of their actual accomplishments. It’s an insultingly narrow and simplistic way of thinking.
I’ve said this before, and given the rhetoric from last night’s meeting, I’ll say it again: the idea that DEI means hiring less qualified people is a myth—plain and simple. DEI efforts don’t lower standards; they challenge outdated definitions of what “qualified” looks like and work to dismantle the unconscious biases that have kept highly capable people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and others from even being seen. In fact, organizations that adopt inclusive hiring practices—things like structured interviews and bias-free job descriptions—aren’t sacrificing excellence. They’re uncovering it. They’re tapping into talent that’s been overlooked not for lack of ability, but because of systemic blind spots.
True meritocracy only exists when everyone has an equal opportunity. DEI doesn’t mean closing doors for some to open them for others—it means opening doors that should have been open all along. It doesn’t mean lowering the bar—it means recognizing that the bar has never been level, and working to fix that. That’s not political. That’s fair. That’s what Palomar College is trying to accomplish with its Student Equity Plan. Is there still work to be done? Undoubtedly. I know that as the college reviews the first three years of the Student Equity plan, programs are being evaluated, plans are being modified and action will be taken to serve all our students.
Meeting highlights:
Meeting called to order with quorum established by Trustees Acosta, Rodriguez, Patacsil, and Kaiser, and Trustee Hamilton Bleakley.
Closed session included discussions on superintendent performance evaluation, public employee discipline, and significant legal matters including anticipated litigation cases.
Ariel Fridman was sworn in as the new student trustee, leading the Pledge of Allegiance and receiving a welcome gift from ASG.
Longevity recognitions highlighted notable careers: Russell McDonald (27 years), Dr. Anthony Smith (29 years), and others celebrated for their service contributions.
Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget projected at 164.3 million with a projected 6.7 million deficit and 44.2 million reserve, indicating financial stability above the required 28 million.
Healthcare costs increased by 13%, impacting overall budget expenditures, while state apportionment remains flat at $140.9 million due to hold harmless provisions.
Approved MOU with Vista Detention Facility for the 2025-2030 period, providing educational classes to incarcerated individuals alongside partnerships for zero emissions vehicle technology.
The board finalized a five-year construction plan including significant projects like a $28 million electrical grid replacement, seeking 75% funding through Proposition bond funds.
Upcoming iterations of the Student Equity Plan discussed, focusing on Black/African American and Hispanic student success, alongside tracking five key performance metrics.
Enrollment report indicated a 2.6% increase for Spring 2025,
To access the Zoom recording of the June 10, 2025 meeting click here.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed on this blog are solely my own and do not reflect the official policy, position, or views of Palomar College, the Palomar College Board, or any other affiliated organization. All content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as representing the views of Palomar College or its governing board.
