WCCUSD reschedules board meeting, schedules a community meeting Aug. 6 over Kennedy High School closure
UPDATE on Kennedy High School from board member Gonzalez-Hoy
Statement from West Contra Costa Unified School District board president:
Good evening, West Contra Costa Community,
We are writing to inform you that tomorrow’s Board meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, August 5, 2026, will be postponed until Wednesday, August 12, 2026.
On Monday, the Board President and Board of Education members were notified that the Superintendent had made the decision to close Kennedy High School based on preliminary environmental testing results indicating elevated levels of tetrachloroethylene (PCE) beneath the Kennedy High School campus. I want to be clear that I was not made aware of this decision until Monday. I am learning this information in real time alongside our community and, at this moment, I do not have additional answers beyond what has been publicly shared.
Given the significance of this decision and its impact on students, staff, families, and the broader community, it is important that the Board has the opportunity to receive a comprehensive briefing, ask questions, and hear directly from the agencies involved.
An informational community meeting will be held on Thursday, August 6, at 6:30 p.m.at the Richmond Memorial Auditorium, located at 403 Civic Center Plaza, Richmond.
Because the decision and subsequent notification occurred after the Board meeting agenda had already been posted, the Board would not be able to discuss this matter during tomorrow’s meeting due to the requirements of the Brown Act. We believe it is essential that Board members receive a complete update, that the community has access to accurate and transparent information, and that the Board has an opportunity to hear from families and community members following Thursday’s informational meeting.
We will also invite representatives from the City of Richmond and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) to attend the rescheduled Board meeting to provide information, answer questions, and discuss the district’s next steps.
Postponing the meeting will allow district staff to remain focused on responding to the immediate needs of the Kennedy High School community while ensuring the Board can fully review the preliminary findings, understand the response plan, and engage in a meaningful public discussion at the rescheduled meeting.
Thank you for your patience, understanding, and partnership as we work together to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of our students, staff, and community. Additional information will continue to be shared as it becomes available.
Sincerely,
Board President Guadalupe Enllana
Thank you,