Shaping the Future of Lynwood Unified Schools: Optimization Committee Set to Begin Sept. 2

Lynwood Unified School District has launched the next phase of its Facilities Optimization Process with the selection of its 16-member committee, which will guide discussions on how to best use District schools and resources to ensure long-term sustainability and student success.

During a live-streamed random drawing on August 25, six parents were selected from a pool of 84 applicants: Claudia Vargas, Cynthia Zavala, Lakeisha Wright, Ana Paola Pineda Santana, Lorena Perez and Marlin Villa.

They will serve alongside Lynwood Teachers Association representatives Myrna Vergara and Glenda Arellano; SEIU representatives Sam Conner and Cynthia Williams; CSEA representatives Diana Hawkins and Lillian Steptoe; administrators Jose Jauregui and Yamiler Varela; Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Gretchen Janson, Ed.D., and Superintendent Patrick Gittisriboongul, Ed.D.

The committee will review data on enrollment trends, school capacity, facility conditions, programs and budget considerations, potentially recommending school boundary adjustments, consolidating under-enrolled campuses or targeted facility investments. The first meeting will take place on September 2.

“Our committee has an important responsibility ahead, and together, we will explore solutions that balance fiscal responsibility with our commitment to creating vibrant, high-quality and well-equipped learning environments for every student,” Janson said.

As part of the process, more than 400 families and staff contributed feedback through the Facilities Optimization Community Survey. Results show strong support for upgraded buildings, classroom resources and expanded programs, with 55.5% open to combining smaller schools to strengthen offerings. A summary of results is available on the District website and will be shared with Committee members.

Committee meetings are scheduled from 3:30-5 p.m. on September 2, 16, and 30 and October 14 and 28, and will be livestreamed and available for viewing on the LynwoodTV YouTube channel to ensure broad community access.

While the meetings are not public forums, families, staff and community members are encouraged to submit questions or feedback on our website after the first committee meeting. Feedback received will be reviewed and shared with the committee to inform its work.

Recommendations will be presented to the Board of Education in November, with a final decision expected in December 2025.

“Community input is at the heart of this process, and we are grateful to every family and staff member who has taken the time to share their voice,” Gittisriboongul said. “Together, we are shaping a future where every student has access to modern, well-equipped schools and opportunities to thrive.”