Lozano Smith - Podcast Details

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Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 95 From Resume to Red Flag: District Responsibilities Under AB 2534When it comes to hiring certificated staff, the process is now more complex and challenging. In this episode, host Aly Bivins connects with Lozano Smith attorneys Dulcinea Grantham and Gail Zurek to unpack the key provisions and implications of Assembly Bill (AB) 2534, focusing on legal obligations for Local Education Agencies related to certificated employees and egregious misconduct. Packed with FAQs, explanations of key obligations, and steps for practical compliance, this episode is essential listening for HR teams, administrators, and anyone involved in the certificated hiring process. Show Notes & References 1:24 – Assembly Bill (AB) 2534 and impact on certificated em...2025-06-2031 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 94 The ESY Puzzle: Putting the Pieces Together for IEP SuccessExtended School Year (ESY) services can raise nuanced questions for IEP teams and special education professionals. On this episode of the Lozano Smith Podcast, host Aly R. Bivins talks with Roxana E. Khan and Erin Frazor about how ESY differs from summer school, the legal requirements under the IDEA, and how to make sound, individualized decisions. They round out the conversation by highlighting common pitfalls and offering practical tips to ensure compliance, including the importance of clear documentation. Show Notes & References 2:10 – ESY (Extended School Year services) vs. Summer School 2:52 – FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education) and ESY 3:40 – Endrew...2025-05-2843 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 93 Speakers, Singers, and Sashes: Planning for a Successful Graduation CeremonyGraduation season is fast approaching and now is the time for selecting speakers, auditioning singers and all the other details that go into planning a successful event. On this Lozano Smith podcast, host Sloan Simmons and his guests Partners and Lozano Smith Student Practice Group Leaders, Ruth Mendyk and Kyle Raney, walk through parameters and considerations in preparing for the ceremony itself, including speeches, music, adornments and more. The group also discusses the basics that being included in the ceremony is not a guarantee, but should be considered a privilege for students to participate. Show Notes & References...2025-04-2540 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 92 Title IX: Past Lessons, Present Shifts, and Future PossibilitiesThis episode explores the evolving landscape of Title IX through the lens of where we are and where we’re headed. From the impact of the 2020 regulations and the recent vacating of the 2024 regulations, to current executive orders, investigations, and state laws shaping implementation today, our team looks ahead at what future federal guidance may hold. Lozano Smith Title IX gurus Monica Batanero, Sarah Fama, and Emma Sol join host Sloan Simmons for this timely discussion to help school leaders navigate the rapid legal changes. Show Notes & References 2:14 – The current buzz around Title IX 3:35 – 2024 Title IX Regulat...2025-04-1030 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 91 School Facilities, Funding and Construction Series – Part 3: ImplementationIn the final episode of our three-part podcast series, host Sloan Simmons joins Lozano Smith Facilities and Business Partners Megan Macy and Anne Collins, and special guest Sue Bell, Chief Facilities Officer for the Elk Grove Unified School District, to tackle all things implementation. The experts discuss turning plans into action, from developing teams and agreements to delivery methods and launch. Show Notes & References 2:14 – How to select a delivery method (Resource: Construction Delivery Methods) 4:53 – Lease-Leaseback method (Listen to: Episode 71 Proper Procurement & Bidding) 8:10 – Ensuring Board policies and resolutions are up to date 8:48 – Timing 10:16 – Project management 11:57 – Recommendations regarding Construction...2025-03-1316 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 90 School Facilities, Funding and Construction Series – Part 2: Planning and ProcurementIn Part 2 of this three-part podcast series, host Sloan Simmons is back with Lozano Smith Facilities and Business Partners Megan Macy and Anne Collins, and special guest Sue Bell, Chief Facilities Officer for the Elk Grove Unified School District. The group covers team building, planning with and for consultants, tips and tricks, and how to best utilize your legal team to get your project off the ground. Stay tuned for Part 3: Implementation, and visit www.lozanosmith.com/podcast to access upcoming episodes upon immediate release. Show Notes & References 1:55 – Building your team of construction professionals 3:07 – FAQ...2025-03-0422 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 89 Review and Update—Personnel Actions and the March 15th Deadline – Are You Ready?In this episode, we re-air Podcast 52 from March 2022, in which host Sloan Simmons joins partners and Lozano Smith Labor and Employment Co-Practice Group Leaders Michelle Cannon and Gabriela Flowers to discuss several important school district labor and employment deadlines that all fall on March 15. This brief but information packed episode includes discussion on various types of release from employment as well as layoffs. The presenters also address changes to the classified layoff process that became effective in 2022. Sloan also discusses with Gabby some important updates and developments on these issues as of March 2025. Show Notes & References 2:29 – Non...2025-03-0335 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 88 School Facilities, Funding and Construction Series – Part 1: The New State BondIn this three-part podcast series, host Sloan Simmons engages with Lozano Smith Facilities and Business Partners Megan Macy and Anne Collins, as well as special guest Sue Bell, Chief Facilities Officer for the Elk Grove Unified School District, on a thoughtful discussion regarding state funding and post-Proposition 2 spending. This discussion will assist listeners in issue spotting, problem solving, and building a proactive approach to planning and managing your district’s future. Part 1 of the series covers what is different in the new State Bond, and what it means from a practical perspective for school districts. Stay tuned for Pa...2025-02-2620 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 87 Immigration Enforcement and California’s SchoolsIn this episode, host Sloan Simmons engages with Lozano Smith’s student law experts Ed Sklar and Josh Whiteside regarding applicable laws, guidance, and anticipated developments regarding immigration enforcement and schools under the new presidential administration. The group discusses the similar focus on this issue dating back to 2017-2018, what happened then, resulting California laws and guidance on point, and anticipated changes at the federal level that will impact California schools. Show Notes & References 2:01 – Immigration enforcement and impact on public school students 4:56 – Recent events unfolding and preparing for change 7:01 – Sanctuary school districts and schools 8:03 – State Senate Bill 54 (Id...2025-01-2349 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 86 Update on Student Issues to Ring in the New Year – 2025!Join Lozano Smith Student attorneys Ruth Mendyk, Alexandra Carubis, and Josh Whiteside as they discuss developments from the most recent legislative session and evaluate the impacts on California students beginning January 1, 2025. Show Notes & References 2:03 – Prohibition of suspension for students seeking help with substance use (Assembly Bill (AB) 2711) 5:53 – Lawful possession of fentanyl antagonists and test strips (Senate Bill (SB) 997) 8:19 – Immunity for opioid antagonist administration (AB 2998) 9:34 – Health education and student instruction regarding fentanyl use (AB 2429) 13:14 – Financial literacy (AB 2927) 14:27 – Menstrual health education (AB 2229) (Client News Brief 46 – October 2024) 16:12 – Social sciences curriculum changes (AB 1821) 17:17 – Homework policy development (AB 2999) (Client News Brief 48 – November 2024) 21:54...2024-12-2033 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 85 From Campus to Closure: The Legal and Practical Approaches to School ClosureThis Lozano Smith Podcast episode is the fourth and final in a 4-part series Leadership in Action, brought to you by Lozano Smith and Lozano Smith’s Concierge Consulting Services, also known as CCS. Due to a long pattern of declining enrollment and resulting budget challenges, school districts around the state are increasingly faced with making the difficult decision of whether and how to close or consolidate schools. In this episode, host Sloan Simmons engages with Lozano Smith CCS expert Ron Carruth, Ed.D. and Partner Harold Freiman regarding their unique expertise and best practice recommendations for this challenging proc...2024-11-271h 02

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 84 Understanding, Building, and Sustaining a Professional Organizational CultureThis Lozano Smith Podcast episode is the third in a 4-part series Leadership in Action, brought to you by Lozano Smith and Lozano Smith’s Concierge Consulting Services, also known as CCS. In this episode, host Sloan Simmons connects with Lozano Smith CCS expert Brandon Krueger, Ed.D. and Partner Sarah Levitan Kaatz regarding building and sustaining a professional organizational culture. This discussion highlights overarching concepts, practical approaches, and a framework for the extremely important, hard, and sustained work necessary to develop, improve, and maintain a successful, professional organizational culture. Applicable takeaways from this episode can benefit school district leader...2024-11-2146 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 83 School Facilities and Construction Planning, Management, and Oversight: Communication, Communication, CommunicationThis Lozano Smith Podcast episode is the second in a 4-part series Leadership in Action, brought to you by Lozano Smith and Lozano Smith’s Concierge Consulting Services, also known as CCS. Whether your school district successfully passed a bond or parcel tax in years past or just this month, once those financial resources are accounted for, the process of moving forward with construction begins. In this episode, host Sloan Simmons connects with Lozano Smith CCS expert George S. Sziraki, Ed.D. and Partner Kelly Rem regarding best practices for superintendents and their teams for advanced planning, issue spotting, enga...2024-11-1428 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 82 The Power of Positivity in Governing Board MeetingsThis Lozano Smith Podcast episode is the first in a 4-part series Leadership in Action, brought to you by Lozano Smith and Lozano Smith’s Concierge Consulting Services, also known as CCS. Increasingly in recent years, the perception of governing board meetings have trended negative, with school leaders concerned over disruptions, lack of productivity, and more. In this episode, host Sloan Simmons engages with Lozano Smith CCS expert Kevin Skelly, Ph.D. and Partner Megan Macy regarding best practices in fostering a welcoming and positive experience during governing board meetings, to the benefit of district constituents, students, staff, administrators, and...2024-11-0741 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 81 Goal Writing in Special Education: Latest Trends and GuidanceIn this episode of our podcast, host Sloan Simmons engages with Lozano Smith special education experts Aly Bivins and Josh Walden. They discuss the recent trends and guidance in the arena of goal writing for special education students. Aly and Josh provide insights on recent OAH decisions on point, and lessons learned from those due process outcomes. Show Notes & References 1:17 – Lozano Smith Podcast Episode 66 – Addressing Inclusion Confusion Following COVID (Listen here) 2:06 – The importance of annual goals (D.R. v. Redondo Beach Unified School District (9th Cir. 2022) 56 F.4th 636) (Client News Brief 15 – April 2023) 3:06 – Impact on Rachel H. decision (Sa...2024-10-1823 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 80 Oklahoma Supreme Court Blocks Establishment of Nation’s First Religious Charter SchoolIn this episode, host Sloan Simmons engages with Lozano Smith charter school experts Courtney de Groof and Eric Barba. The group discusses the recent Oklahoma Supreme Court decision to block the nation’s first proposed religious charter school and implications of this development here in California and more broadly. Show Notes & References 1:55 – Drummond vs. Oklahoma Statewide Virtual Charter School Board (Client News Brief 31 – August 2023) 7:23 – Issues presented in Oklahoma Decision 8:42 – Oklahoma State Charter Schools Act 9:45 – Federal constitutional questions that were addressed 12:22 – Federal cases (Trinity Lutheran Church of Columbia, Inc. v. Comer (2017) 582 U.S. 449; Espinoza v. Montana Department of Revenue, et a...2024-09-1127 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 79 Student Issues: What’s New for 2024-2025Join host Sloan Simmons as he discusses new legislative enactments and trending student issues impacting the 2024-2025 school year with Lozano Smith experts Kyle Raney and Kendra Tovey. This episode covers a range of hot topic issues, from a new round of changes to Independent Study to AB 1955. Show Notes & References 1:17 – School recess (Senate Bill (SB) 291) (Client News Brief 45 – December 2023) 3:59 – Repeal of withholding recess as a disciplinary measure 6:01 – Defiance and disruption, and the Keep Kids in School Bill (SB 274) (Client News Brief 37 – November 2023) 9:39 – Changes to Independent Study (IS) (SB 153) (Client News Brief 38 – August 2024) 10:29 – “Short term” versus “Long term” IS 11:15 – Im...2024-08-3032 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 78 At Last! The New Title IX Regulations Are Here – What You Need to KnowIn this podcast, host Sloan Simmons engages with Lozano Smith Title IX Practice Group Leaders Monica Batanero and Sarah Fama in a step-by-step discussion regarding the new Title IX regulations, as well as helpful context regarding various legal challenges pending around the country to the new regulations. Show Notes & References 1:48 – Overview of Title IX 3:48 – New Title IX Regulations 6:14 – California regulations under the Education code 8:19 – Flexibility within new regulations 10:28 – Sex-based harassment structure for students at higher education institutions (34 CFR 106.46) 12:06 – August 1, 2024 implementation deadline and policy updates 18:22 – Lawsuits around the country and impacts on California schools 19:05 – State of Kansas v. U.S. Departme...2024-08-2229 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 77 What K-12 School Districts Need to Know about Internal Complaint ProceduresIn this episode, host Sloan Simmons engages with Lozano Smith attorneys Carolyn Gemma and Jaspreet Lochab-Dogra regarding the application and interactions between the various compliant procedures utilized by California’s K-12 school districts. Show Notes & References 1:45 – Common complaint procedures 1:51 – BP/AP 1312.1 (Complaints Concerning District Employees) 1:56 – BP/AP 1312.3 (Uniform Complaint Procedures (UCP)) 2:01 – BP/AP 4030 (Non-Discrimination in Employment) 2:05 – Title IX and Williams complaint procedures 2:38 – UCP process 3:33 – What is covered under the UCP 4:39 – Removal of special education from the UCP 6:05 – Complaint procedures for employees with protected characteristics (BP/AR 4030) 6:32 – Complaint procedures for employees not related to protected characteristics (BP/AR 1312.1) 7:34 – Inte...2024-08-1318 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 76 Artificial Intelligence for Public Agencies and School Districts: Part 4 – Understanding Risks and Benefits of AI in the Hands of StudentsIn episode four of our series on Artificial Intelligence for Public Agencies and School Districts, we explore the intersection of student issues and AI. Join Lozano Smith attorneys Karen M. Rezendes, Ruth E. Mendyk, and Joshua Whiteside in their discussion of the use of AI and its effect on K-12 students, existing rules and regulations, issues of deepfakes and plagiarism, and big picture considerations for school administrators. Show Notes & References 1:57 – Law, rules, and regulations 3:54 – Other considerations for students and the use of AI 5:55 – Importance of human connection between educators and students 7:55 – Risks and misuse of AI by studen...2024-07-0837 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 75 Artificial Intelligence for Public Agencies and School Districts: Part 3 – Facilities, Business, and AIIn episode three of our series on Artificial Intelligence for Public Agencies and School Districts, we delve into the ways AI is impacting the facilities and operations side of school districts. Join Lozano Smith attorneys Karen M. Rezendes, Robert A. Lomeli, and Junaid Halani as they discuss how AI technologies are being integrated into the day-to-day processes of school districts’ facilities departments and business operations. We also discuss real-world applications and potential pitfalls involving AI as AI has an ever-increasing presence and utility in allowing resource strapped public agencies to function efficiently. Show Notes & References 2:05 – Managing scho...2024-05-2135 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 74 Artificial Intelligence for Public Agencies and School Districts: Part 2 – The Use of AI in Special EducationIn episode two of our series on Artificial Intelligence for Public Agencies and School Districts, we delve into the ways AI is revolutionizing the field of special education. Join Lozano Smith attorneys Karen M. Rezendes, Sarah L. Garcia, and Karina Demirchyan as they discuss how AI technologies are enabling a more inclusive learning environment and creating more equitable educational opportunities for students with diverse needs. We also discuss real-world applications and success stories involving AI, ethical considerations, and our future outlook regarding AI tools in special education. Show Notes & References 2:12 – AI in the context of special ed...2024-04-0827 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 73 Artificial Intelligence for Public Agencies and School Districts: Part 1 – AI PrimerDive into the evolving world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with the first episode in our new series, designed to cut through the hype and uncover the real impact of AI on public agencies. Lozano Smith’s Managing Partner, Karen M. Rezendes, along with Lozano Smith attorneys Robert A. Lomeli, Karina Demirchyan, and Nicholas J. Clair, offer a foundational exploration of AI technologies like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Google Gemini. This episode provides an accessible overview on how public employees are leveraging AI, the importance of keeping humans in the loop, and practical examples of AI in school environments and be...2024-02-1647 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 72 Getting Street Smart About Street VendorsCalifornia’s vibrant food cultures and many days of sunshine means you have probably seen an individual selling food and goods from a sidewalk or street cart. However, this entrepreneurship led to many debates about whether certain neighborhoods should be off-limits to street (or sidewalk) vendors, how many to allow, and whether brick-and-mortar businesses needed to give permission for these carts to operate nearby. Thanks to new laws enacted in the past five years, local governments now have some answers on how they can and can’t limit these activities. Lozano Smith attorneys Matthew M. Lear and Jack Jackson II join...2024-02-1318 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 71 Proper Procurement & BiddingIn this episode, Lozano Smith Podcast co-host Josh Whiteside has invited attorneys Amanda Savage and James McCann to provide a helpful “how-to” guide for public agencies procuring and bidding for goods, services, and other contracted work. Topics include bidding thresholds, understanding the difference between maintenance and construction, as well as brief rules of the road for piggybacking, energy service contracts, and emergency contracts. Show Notes & References 1:54 – Background 6:20 – Municipal contracts 7:50 – Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act (CUPCCAA) 9:28 – Bidding thresholds and estimates 10:18 – Special districts 11:18 – Non-public work bidding for goods and services 11:36 – Adopting procurement systems for cities and counties 12:31 – Ordinances and procu...2024-01-3046 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 70 Winter 2023-2024 Student Issues Legislative UpdateIn this episode, Lozano Smith Podcast host Sloan Simmons discusses with Lozano Smith Student Practice Group Leaders Ruth Mendyk and Josh Whiteside important legislative updates regarding student matters resulting from the close of this year’s legislative session. Show Notes & References 1:55 – Prohibition on removal of instructional materials/library books (Assembly Bill (AB) 1078) (Client News Brief 36 – November 2023) 3:46 – Episode 63 Getting to Know and Understand the FAIR Act (listen here) 4:59 – Consequences to not following AB 1078 guidelines 9:40 – Suspension for defiance and disruption (Senate Bill (SB) 274) (Client News Brief 37 – November 2023) 10:14 – Grounds for discipline (Education Code section 48900(k)) 14:17 – California Longitudinal Pupil Achievement Data System (CALPA...2023-12-1929 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 69 Bargaining Basics – Meeting at the TableDesigned for new administrators and/or those new to the bargaining table, co-host Joshua Whiteside is joined by Lozano Smith attorneys Daniel McElhinney and Kara Walton to discuss the basics of bargaining. Topics include figuring out who should be on the bargaining team, how to identify a lead negotiator, what type of contract negotiations can occur, and strategies to foster good processes and outcomes. Show Notes & References 2:35 – Preparing for negotiations 3:38 – Educational Employment Relations Act (EERA or Rodda Act) 5:34 – New administrators joining the bargaining team 8:02 – Superintendents in negotiations 8:47 – Board members in negotiations 10:41 – Identifying your lead negotiator 11:43 – Open vs. closed cont...2023-12-1826 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 68 Citizen Bond Oversight Committees: A Primer for School DistrictsJoin Lozano Smith Podcast host Sloan Simmons for a discussion with Partner attorneys Daniel Maruccia and Harold Freiman regarding Citizen Bond Oversight Committees. This podcast provides an insightful primer into such committees, including their purpose, applicable requirements, and commonly asked questions and issues. Show Notes & References 1:47 – Overview of CBOCs (Citizen Bond Oversight Committees) and why they exist 4:21 – Required minimum number of committee members 5:59 – CBOCs and similarities to Brown Act committees 7:59 – Prop 39 (2000) and passing bonds with 55% approval 8:34 – Impact of Prop 39 on bond measure passage 9:09 – Roles and responsibilities of CBOCs 9:43 – Mission creep 17:09 – Administrative and technical support for CBOCs 19:23 – Contra Costa Count...2023-11-2144 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 67 Annual Organizational Meetings for School DistrictsJoin host Sloan Simmons in this Lozano Smith podcast in which Partner Thomas Gauthier discusses annual organizational meetings for school districts. This timely discussion provides insights into the structure and purpose to these meetings, which take place every December. Show Notes & References 1:03 – Basic overview of organizational meetings 2:19 – Education Code sections 1009 and 35143 2:55 – Board Bylaw 9100 and electing board officers 3:42 – Vice President and Clerk roles 4:54 – The six requirements of Board Bylaw 9100 6:52 – Election and nomination process for officers 9:57 – Failed nomination scenario 11:23 – Risks of not following bylaws and policies 12:57 – Flexibly for holding elections outside of annual meeting (Education Code section 35160) 14:47 – Officer duties 15:10 – Board...2023-11-1724 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 66 Addressing Inclusion Confusion Following COVIDJoin Lozano Smith attorneys Joshua Whiteside, Jennifer Baldassari, and Haley Fagan in a discussion about special education inclusion following a return to in-person schooling post-COVID. In this episode they discuss inclusive environments, recent case law, and next steps for the future. Listen as they delve into inclusion and travel through past and present frameworks to better understand this complex topic. Show Notes & References 1:26 – What is inclusion? 2:38 – The history of inclusion and why it matters 2:54 – Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) 7:07 – Inclusion levels in classrooms 8:40 – What an inclusive environment should look like 10:36 – Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) 11:38 – Rachel H. (Sacramento C...2023-09-1138 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 65 Special Education and Independent Study in the Post-Pandemic EraIn this Lozano Smith Podcast episode, host Sloan Simmons talks with Lozano Smith special education attorneys Kendra Tovey and Amanda Cordova regarding independent study in the context of special education students in light of the now existing independent study legal framework post-pandemic. Show Notes & References 1:06 – Special education students participation in Independent Study (IS) (Client News Brief 39 – August 2022) 2:16 – Transitioning back from distance learning 3:45 – Responding to IS requests 4:26 – Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) 6:13 – Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) 8:34 – Amending Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) to provide a FAPE during IS 9:17 – Changing placement and other considerations 10:08 – E. E. et al. v. State of Californi...2023-08-2920 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 64 Much Ado About ADUsWith the ever-growing demand for housing in California, many local governments are turning to Accessory Dwelling Units (“ADUs”). Host Joshua Whiteside joins Lozano Smith attorneys Jennifer Thompson and Kevin Serrano to examine the housing situation in California, benefits and challenges of ADUs to cities and local agencies, ADU requirements, and latest trends. Show Notes & References 1:29 – The housing situation in California 2:22 – What is an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) 3:04 – ADUs and parking 6:03 – Lot sizing 8:25 – ADU approvals 10:04 – Homeowner associations and ADUs 12:41 – Benefits to cities and local agencies 13:31 – Impact fees 15:58 – Zoning and requirements for ADUs 22:36 – JADU (Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit) 24:44 – Closing thoughts 2023-08-0726 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 63 Getting to Know and Understand the FAIR ActThe Fair, Accurate, Inclusive and Respectful (“FAIR”) Act became law in 2012 and was enacted with the goal of California schools including a more historically accurate depiction of the contributions of LGBT Americans in the curriculum and to reduce the negative stereotypes and bullying that plague a majority of LGBT youth. However, in light of national and local controversies regarding discussion of LGBT issues at public schools, some may be confused or unsure about how to be compliant with the FAIR Act and comprehensive sexual health education opt-out requests, and/or avoid parent complaints. In this episode, Lozano Smith’s San Dieg...2023-06-1233 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastUPDATE: Episode 62 Charter School Renewals – They’re Back?Erin Hamor, Partner and Co-chair of Lozano Smith’s Charter School Practice Group, is back with an important update on the fate of charter school renewals in the state in light of new pending legislation, discussed in our most recent episode, Charter School Renewals – They’re Back! For more information on the topics discussed in this podcast, please visit our website at: www.lozanosmith.com/podcast. 2023-06-0702 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 62 Charter School Renewals – They’re Back!In this Lozano Smith Podcast episode, host Sloan Simmons talks with Lozano Smith Partners and charter school experts Ed Sklar and Erin Hamor regarding the forthcoming return of the charter school renewal process under pre-Pandemic changes in the law resulting from AB 1505. Show Notes & References 1:32 – Charter renewals and where we left off (listen to Episode 57 here) 2:19 – AB 1505 (2019) and The Charter Schools Act reform 5:32 – Removal of the Dashboard and impact on charter renewals 8:20 – Other factors impacting renewal 9:10 – Data used for renewals 12:36 – Examples of Verified Data 14:30 – Potential disputes over data 16:48 – Governance and fiscal issues 18:32 – “Cure and Correct” notices 19:01 – Selective enrollment iss...2023-05-1626 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 61 Responding to Student Behavior and Student Discipline in the Special Education ContextIn this Lozano Smith Podcast episode, host Sloan Simmons talks with Lozano Smith special education Partner Sarah Garcia and special education attorney Kaitlyn Tucker about the nuances and options when responding to student behavior, including imposition of student discipline and other options, in the special education context. Show Notes & References 1:28 – Expedited due process hearings (34 C.F.R. § 300.532.) 1:46 – The Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) 3:40 – Honig injunction procedure (Honig v. Doe (1988) 484 U.S. 305) 5:54 – Differences between expedited and normal due process hearings (34 C.F.R. § 300.507; 34 C.F.R. § 300.510; 34 C.F.R. § 300.532(c); OAH: Due Process; Letter to Snyder (OSEP 2015).) 8:00 – Manifestation...2023-04-2041 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 60 Changes to the California Public Records Act: What You Need to KnowEffective 2023, the California Public Records Act (“CPRA”) has a new statutory “home” within the Government Code. (See Gov. Code, § 7920.000 et seq.) While the Legislature has indicated this reorganization is not intended to change the CPRA substantively, the practical effects of this reorganization remain to be seen. In this Lozano Smith Podcast episode, host Sloan Simmons engages with Lozano Smith Partner, Manuel Martinez, and Senior Counsel, Alyse Pacheco Nichols, to discuss this statutory reorganization; guesses as to the Legislature’s rationale for the reorganization; and how this reorganization will or will not effect the way public agencies response to CPRA requests. ...2023-03-3023 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 59 Student Legislative Update 2023This episode provides school administrators with the latest legislative changes and developments regarding student matters with Lozano Smith and Student Practice Group leaders Ruth Mendyk and Joshua Whiteside, along with Fresno attorney Nisha Dale. Show Notes & References 1:23 – Governor’s Executive Order: End of State of Emergency (February 28, 2023) 2:29 –Student threats and firearms (SB 906) (Client News Brief 41 – August 2022) 7:09 – Excused absence for civic or political event (SB 955) (Education Code section 48205) 9:50 – Homeless youth (Client News Brief 4 – January 2023) 10:21 – McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act 11:10 – New requirements for districts regarding homeless students (AB 2375) 11:41 – CDE Model Housing Questionnaire 12:07 – Updates to homeless youth policies (AB 408) 15:00 – COVID-19 testing plan (SB 1479) 1...2023-03-0327 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 57 State Board of Education Considers First Charter School Petition Appeals Post AB-1505As discussed in Episode 56, there were three pending charter school petition appeals to the State Board of Education (SBE) following denial by the respective LEAs. These were the first three charter petition appeals subject to the new appeal processes since Assembly Bill 1505 became effective in 2020. In this Lozano Smith Podcast episode, host Sloan Simmons engages with Megan Macy and Courtney de Groof to follow up and discuss the outcomes of these petition appeals and what to anticipate going forward. Show Notes & References 1:51 – AB 1505 and appeals to the State Board of Education (SBE) 3:39 – Standards of review 4:50 – Recent local e...2022-10-1323 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 56 Hot Topics Regarding Charter Schools Coming Out of the PandemicEffective 2019, significant legal changes were enacted regarding charter schools in California. The anticipated effects and implementation of those changes, however, were stunted by the COVID-19 outbreak. In this Lozano Smith Podcast episode, host Sloan Simmons engages with Lozano Smith Charter Practice Group Co-Leaders, Ed Sklar and Erin Hamor, to discuss the current state of affairs for charter schools and their authorizers, hot topics and trends in the charter school field, and what to anticipate going forward as California’s LEAs return to normal operation. Show Notes & References 1:14 – A look back at 2019 1:26 – Assembly Bill (AB) 1505 (Client News Brief 49...2022-07-2522 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 55 Special Education – Private Schools and Alternatives to Public School PlacementsIn the wake of COVID-19, many families have experienced or explored new ways for their children to receive education. Lozano Smith attorneys Lauri Arrowsmith and Kaitlyn Tucker will examine the recent trend of more parents seeking alternative placements for their children with disabilities and how educational agencies should handle such requests, including those seeking placement at a private or home school. This episode will also address recent case law in the past year which provides meaningful directives on this issue. Show Notes & References 1:43 – Trends in placement requests 3:28 – Obtaining private placement 4:42 – 10-day unilateral placement notice 5:49 – Changes to plans and...2022-07-0521 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 54 Best Practices in Managing Disruptions at School Board MeetingsManaging school board meetings in the face of disruption created by parents, employees, and members of the public can be challenging. This podcast will explore best practices to regulate this disruption and create rules and de-escalation techniques to ensure an orderly meeting. To explore this timely topic, co-host Joshua Whiteside introduces a discussion on point between local governance experts and Lozano Smith partners, Roman Muñoz from the Sacramento office and Chelsea Olson Murphy from the San Luis Obispo office. Show Notes & References 3:51 – Current landscape 6:42 – Problematic behaviors 8:52 – Proactive steps for districts 19:26 – Best practices for school board meetings 19...2022-04-2041 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 53 Elections and the California Voting Rights Act – How and Why it Works, and “Post-Transition” Best PracticesHosts Sloan Simmons joins veteran municipal practitioner James Sanchez and Governance Practice Group Co-Chair Ryan Tung to discuss the election process and the California Voting Rights Act (CVRA), including the legal requirements and practical impacts of the CVRA, as well as best practices for California public entities following the transition from at-large to trustee area elections. Show Notes & References 1:57 – California Voting Rights Act (CVRA), Elections Code sections 14025-14032 2:10 – At-large method of election 3:34 – By-district or by-trustee area elections 4:39 – Demand letters and litigation 5:47 – Notice received and timelines 7:47 – Low probability of successful defense of at-large election challenges 10:15 – Pico Neighborhood Association et...2022-04-0528 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 51 (Part 2) Student Vaccines and Student Masks – Late February 2022 DevelopmentsHosts Joshua Whiteside and Sloan Simmons are back to discuss the latest litigation development related to a school district’s student COVID-19 vaccination mandate and the rapidly changing guidance and directives related to student and staff mask requirements, including CDPH’s recent announcement that face masks are no longer legally required indoors at K-12 schools after March 11, 2022. Show Notes & References 0:26 – Episode 51 Student Vaccines and Student Masks – Latest Developments 1:14 – San Diego Unified School District federal court vaccine litigation; John Doe, et al., Applicants v. San Diego Unified School District, et al. 4:28 – Student mask mandate update 5:01 – February 25, 2022 Centers for Disease Co...2022-03-0317 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 52 Personnel Actions and the March 15th Deadline – Are You Ready?Host Sloan Simmons joins partners and Lozano Smith Labor and Employment Co-Practice Group Leaders Michelle Cannon and Gabriela Flowers to discuss several important school district labor and employment deadlines that fall on March 15. This brief but information packed episode includes discussion on various types of release from employment as well as layoffs. Additionally, this year, for the first time ever, classified layoffs are subject to the same deadline. Show Notes & References 1:13 – Non-reelection of second year probationary certificated employees 2:10 – March 15th deadlines 3:28 – First year probationary employees 3:34 – Education Code section 44929.21 4:21 – Release and reassignment notices for administrators (Ed. Code section 4495...2022-03-0226 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 51 (Part 1) Student Vaccines and Student Masks – Latest DevelopmentsHost Joshua Whiteside joins Lozano Smith partner Sloan Simmons to discuss the present status of student COVID-19 vaccination and student masks requirements, including the status of State directives on point and the results of litigation in these areas. Show Notes & References 0:48 – California Department of Public Health (CDPH) February 15, 2022 announcement and upcoming CDPH February 28, 2022 announcement 3:26 – Student vaccine mandate status 5:35 – SB 871 and personal exemptions 7:45 – Locally adopted vaccine mandates examples 8:36 – Los Angeles USD local mandate and legislation 9:20 – Education Code section 35160 11:37 – San Diego USD local mandate 15:05 – State court San Diego case and Let Them Choose litigation 19:00 – San Diego USD appeal and stay from Cour...2022-02-1834 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 50 Modular Buildings: A Primer for School DistrictsHost Sloan Simmons joins Lozano Smith partner Arne Sandberg to discuss modular buildings for California school districts, including the basics about modular buildings, procurement alternatives, and new legal developments impacting this area of school construction. Show Notes & References 1:24 – Modular buildings 2:05 – Modular component buildings vs. modular portables 4:55 – Issue of permanent vs. temporary 6:10 – Modular component building examples 7:15 – Popularity and cost-efficiency 8:16 – Building plans (standard or unique designs) 9:10 – Competitive bidding and modular buildings 10:33 – Delivery methods (competitive bidding, lease-leaseback, design-build) 13:30 – Architect involvement 14:31 – Lease-leaseback method 15:16 – Davis v. Fresno Unified School Dist. (2015) 237 Cal.App.4th 261 18:16 – Lease-leaseback scoring and rating system 19:29 – Design-build vs. lease-leaseback 21:03 – Piggybacking 22:10 – Divisio...2022-02-1643 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 49 Preparing for the New Year: New Student Laws In Effect Now and in 2022 and BeyondHost Joshua Whiteside joins Lozano Smith attorney Ruth Mendyk to discuss updates and new obligations facing educational agencies now and during the second half of the 2021-22 school year. This discussion includes a review of important legislation from the Fall 2021 legislative session. Show Notes & References 2:30 – Education Code 48205 – Excused absences 2:50 – Senate Bill (SB) 14 (urgency) – Excused absences for mental or behavioral health 6:46 – Assembly Bill (AB) 516 – Excused absences for cultural ceremonies and events 9:13 – SB 254 – September 11th remembrance exercises and observations 11:24 – AB 27 (urgency) – Website posting requirement for liaison and related homeless information 12:11 – SB 400 – Housing questionnaire and rights/resources for homeless students 14:26 – AB 132...2021-12-2029 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 48 COVID-19 School Closures: Compensatory Education in the Special Education ContextFollowing COVID-19 school closures during the 2019-2020 school year, many school districts are faced with making determinations regarding potential compensatory education for their special education student populations. Host Sloan Simmons discusses the concept of compensatory education and school closures with Lozano Smith special education experts Marcy Gutierrez and Collen Villarreal, including important factors for districts to consider on this subject and the latest OAH rulings on point. Show Notes & References 2:29 – FAPE obligation and distance learning 3:11 – Bd. of Ed. v. Rowley (1982) 458 U.S. 176; Endrew F. ex rel. Joseph F. v. Douglas County Sch. Dist. RE-1 (2017) 580 U.S. ___, 137 S.Ct...2021-07-3026 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 47 The Supreme Court Speaks: Guidelines for Regulation of Student Off-Campus SpeechFor the first time since 2007, the United States Supreme Court has weighed-in on student free speech rights under the First Amendment. In Mahanoy Area School District v. B.L., the high court addressed for the first time the parameters and limits for schools’ regulation of student off-campus speech. In this episode, Lozano Smith student speech experts Mike Smith and Sloan Simmons break down the Supreme Court’s decision and its implications for California school districts. Show Notes & References 1:58 – Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District (1969) 393 U.S. 503 4:00 – Bethel School District v. Fraser (1986) 478 U.S. 675 5:58 – Hazelwood School Dis...2021-07-201h 04

Grief 2 GrowthWHAT HAPPENS BETWEEN LIVES? Dr. Vondie Lozano Unlocks the Secrets of the Soul’s PurposeSend me a Text MessageDr. Lozano reached out to me to tell me about her work with using hypnosis for past life and life between life regressions. It's something I've always been curious about. So, we agreed that I would give it a try before having her on the program.Vondie is a Life Between Lives hypnotherapist. She’s also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and former Psychology Professor who’s been featured in Cosmopolitan, the Wall Street Journal, and on KABC Talk Radio.LBL hypnosis can help people connect with thei...2021-07-061h 15

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 46 California’s “Reopening” and the Future of Public Meetings Under the Brown ActWith the easing of COVID-19 restrictions and California’s “reopening,” host Sloan Simmons has a timely discussion with Lozano Smith Governance Co-Practice Group Leader, Anne Collins and Lozano Smith Technology and Innovation Practice Group Leader Travis Cochran regarding the state of the law and future of public meetings under the Brown Act in light of pending legislation that would continue flexibility for remote participation by local officials and the public. Show Notes & References 3:19 – The Brown Act & board member telephonic/virtual participation (Government Code section 54953(b)) 6:06 – California Executive Order 3-17-20 (March 2020) 10:16 – California Executive Order N-08-21 (June 2021) 1...2021-06-2847 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 45 Charter School Reforms in the COVID-19 EraHost Sloan Simmons facilitates a timely and interesting discussion with Lozano Smith Charter School Practice Group Leaders, Ed Sklar and Erin Hamor, regarding the status of charter school reform legislation and the impacts of COVID-19 on the same. Show Notes & References 2:10 – Review of charter reform legislation over the last two years 2:31 – Assembly Bill (AB) 1505 3:26 – State dashboard 7:20 – AB 1316 and pending Education Budget Trailer Bill 7:36 – People v. McManus; San Diego Super. Ct. Case No. SCD266439 9:17 – Anticipated 3-year renewed moratorium on non-classroom based (NCB) charter schools 9:38 – Anticipated 2-year hiatus for charter renewals 11:57 – COVID-19 pandemic & NCB charter school accountability 13:43 – SB 98 influence on NCB c...2021-06-2440 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 44 EIFD and Tax Increment – A Public Finance Practitioner Discussion of the Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District Financing ToolLozano Smith attorneys Constantine Baranoff and Daniel Maruccia join host Sloan Simmons in an informative and detailed discussion of how Enhanced Infrastructure Financing Districts have evolved in California with attorneys who focus on public finance and who have formed EIFDs throughout the state. They also discuss available financing structures and explore projects (including freeway overlay and flood control) which EIFDs may be used to finance. Show Notes & References 5:01 – 2012 Redevelopment Agencies (RDA) dissolved 6:58 – EIFD (Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District) 13:35 – Formation of Public Finance Authority (PFA) 15:13 – EIFD hearings and timelines 19:03 – EIFD financing structures and combining the EIFD with other financing...2021-06-2341 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 43 Catching Up, and Looking Forward: Student Issues After a Year of COVID-19 and Heading Back to School in 2021-2022Host Sloan Simmons joins Lozano Smith attorneys Ruth Mendyk and Joshua Whiteside to discuss updates to district policies and practices during the 2020-21 school year, pending legislation on student retention and grading issues for 2021-22 and proposed curriculum and kindergarten / preschool related issues for future years. Show Notes & References 2:30 – Assembly Bill (AB) 1127 – Expanded transfer rights to victims of bullying (Client News Brief 74) 4:34 – Education Code 48900(r) – Student discipline for bullying 6:35 – Heightened transportation obligation within AB 1127 7:55 – Changes to conditions for student UCP (Uniform Complaint Procedures) complaints (Client News Brief 77) 10:35 – Face masks 11:20 – California Department of Public Health (CDPH) guidelines (Client News Brie...2021-06-1149 min

The Adrian Lozano ShowADRIAN LOZANO SHOW EP 109. drones+ dirty Mozart × books+ time crystals+ crustaceans ÷gadgets=AwesomeHello la la la everything featured in this episode is the following things evolving into crabs tiny bug sized drones Coca-Cola says goodbye to tab soda . 3 dirty songs by Mozart . unfreindly neighborhood Adrian Lozano this episode features a poem from a listener. Quick Links Bondic - Fix Everything and Anythings Soul Insole - Futuristic Insole” Offers Long-Lasting Foot Pain Relief FIXD – Prevent $1000s In Unnecessary Car Repairs TV Fix - Watch Anything You Can See On Your Phone And Computer On Your Big Screen TV RangeXTD – Stay Connected In Any Corner Of Your Home Dodow – Best Night Sleep You’ll Ever Have Fit...2020-10-291h 00

HEAL Her PodcastAnna Lozano & Lindy Sood of Love Powered Co "How Affirmations Can Help You Heal"Anna Lozano and Lindy Sood are Founders and CEO's of Love Powered Co., the affirmation company. They are moms on a mission to power the next generation of mindful leaders and make I AM affirmations common practice in homes around the world. Their affirmations have been seen on The Marilyn Denis Show, Breakfast Television, Fox News, and enjoyed by influencers and celebrities including Jessica Alba, Sarah Landry of The Birds Papaya, Jaime King, Jully Black, Cheryl Hickey amongst many others. Tune in to hear how they are using affirmations to heal themselves and others. Stay connected with...2020-10-2448 min

The Adrian Lozano ShowAdrian Lozano show EP 105 part 2 all that stuff I said last week slightly continued and then some!!!Today's episode topics are Kevin Smith John Mulaney Ralphie May talking to celebrities how people 10 years younger than you are sensitive maybe too sensitive along with first hand essential worker tails as always the comedy podcast intended for the purposes of humor don't tell my mom have a great whatever thank you for listening. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/adrian-lozano/support 2020-10-0257 min

The Adrian Lozano ShowAdrian Lozano Show Ep105 Metaphysical Chemicals on an exploration of weirdness most bizarre!? Part 1The Following episode is part one of a two-part Adventure the topics covered in this specific episode nice ass are the following Kevin Smith Kilroy Southland Tales Cheri Oteri SNL not to mention water skiing as always this is a comedy podcast intended for adults and mature audiences were talking Sick Puppies or yuppies but only if they're into metal if you know a yuppie to send a metal good for you anyway enjoy. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/adrian-lozano/support 2020-09-2652 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 42: Return to School in the COVID-19 Era – Student Athletics Issues (Part 3)Host Sloan Simmons talks with Lozano Smith attorneys Ruth Mendyk and Chelsea Olson Murphy about the latest developments on COVID-19 and student athletics, with a focus on the most recent guidance from the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF), as well as other state public health directives and guidance heading into the 2020-2021 school year. Updates UPDATE 12/1/2020 – CIF puts hold on start date for full practice and competition for Education Based Athletics: https://cifstate.org/covid-19/12.1.20_release Since recording this podcast, the California Department of Public Health updated its publication for Schools and School Based Pr...2020-08-0424 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 41: Return to School in the COVID-19 Era – Special Education Issues (Part 2)Host Sloan Simmons talks with Lozano Smith Special Education attorneys Alyssa Bivins and Marcy Gutierrez about the latest developments on COVID-19 and special education, with a focus on Senate Bill 98 and the most recent state and federal directives and guidance heading into the 2020-2021 school year. Show Notes & References 1:40 – California Department of Public Health Guidance (July 17, 2020) 2:13 – Senate Bill (SB) 98 2:25 – Emergency Plans and IEPs 10:00 – Impact of extended school closures 11:34 – Instructional Minutes 13:29 – Masks 15:18 – In-Person vs. Distance Learning 17:45 – Compensatory Education Lozano Smith’s COVID-19 Resources can be found here. For more information on the topics discussed in this podcast, p...2020-08-0321 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 40: Return to School in the COVID-19 Era – Student Issues (Part 1)Host Sloan Simmons talks with Lozano Smith attorneys Desiree Serrano and Aimee Perry about the latest developments on COVID-19 and students, with a focus on Senate Bill 98 and the most recent state agency directives and guidance heading into the 2020-2021 school year. Show Notes & References 2:18 – Requirements for in-person instruction 2:40 – Senate Bill (SB) 98 5:12 – Daily live interaction 7:16 – Distance learning 8:54 – California Department of Education’s Distance Learning FAQs 11:13 – July 17, 2020 CDPH COVID-19 Industry Guidance: Schools and School Based Programs, CDPH COVID-19 and Reopening In-Person Learning Framework for K-12 Schools in California, 2020-2021 School Year 14:18 – Guidance on back-and-forth openings/closings 15:33 – Individual school...2020-07-3125 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 39: Suicide Awareness and Prevention – From ACSA’s ECC Symposium to the COVID-19 CrisisWhile on location at the Association of California School Administrators’ (ACSA) 2020 Annual Every Child Counts Symposium (ECC), host Sloan Simmons talked with Lozano Smith attorney and ECC presenter Jennifer Baldassari, and Nathan Moreno, Director of Special Education at Soledad Unified School District (as of July 1, 2020, Director of Special Education at Guadalupe Union School District), regarding student suicide risk assessments, child find, case law, and suicide prevention. This timely discussion highlights recent legislative changes in the area of suicide prevention, and includes ideas on resources and best practices to consider when addressing the topic of suicide prevention in California school dis...2020-06-3039 min

Girls Talking Life#33 Pam Lozano [Pure Design\Pure Beauty]If you’re the mom of a teen girl, if you have a teen girl in your life…or if you’ve ever been a teen girl, grab your earbuds and listen in to this conversation! Today I’m talking with Pam Lozano. Pam is the founder and president of Pure Design Ministries and Teen Magazine. She is an inspirational speaker on topics of faith, self-image, self-worth and purity. Pam has been a youth pastor with husband Jake for over twenty years and has a passion for mentoring the next generation to live whole-heartedly for Christ. In our con...2020-02-1737 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 38: California’s Uniform Complaint Procedures: What You Need to Know in 2020Host Sloan Simmons talks with Lozano Smith attorneys Marisa Lincoln and Carolyn Gemma about California’s Uniform Complaint Procedures (UCP). Their discussion covers increasingly important legal parameters and best practices for complying with the State’s UCP, and how the UCP interacts with best practices in investigations and other complaint processes, such as that before the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights. Show Notes & References 1:20 – What is the UCP? 6:54 – California Code of Regulations, title 5, section 4600 et seq. and CSBA Model Policy and Regulation 1312.3 7:03 – Types of complaints subject to the UCP 8:59 – Types of complaints that...2020-02-1452 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 37: The New Year Brings A Huge Wave of Affordable Housing Legislation: What Does It All Mean for California Cities?In this episode, Jenell Van Bindsbergen and William P. Curley III, co-chairs of the firm’s Municipal Practice Group, talk about the unprecedented crush of affordable housing legislation enacted by the California Legislature in 2019. The team discusses what the new laws mean for city governments, and how the legislation strikes at local control and other issues of importance to local municipalities. Show Notes & References 1:34 Episode 14: Police in Schools – The Role of a School Resource Officer 1:49 No Easy Answers – Cities, School Districts, and the Statewide Affordable Housing Crisis 4:35 Assembly Bill (AB) 101 23:19 Senate Bill (SB) 330 – Housing Crisis Act of 2019 24:15...2020-01-0747 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 36: On Location at CSBA’s AEC – Insights on Critical Issues Impacting Education Agencies by Statewide Education Law Experts (A Bonus Episode of the Lozano Smith Podcast)While on location at the California School Boards Association’s (CSBA) 2019 Annual Education Conference, host Sloan Simmons talks with CSBA General Counsel, Kathryn Meola, and one of Lozano Smith’s founding partners, Mike Smith, about critical legal issues impacting educational and other public agencies heading in 2020 and beyond. Show Notes & References 2:45 W. v. Tehachapi Unified School Dist., Ninth Circuit Case No. 19-15680, appeal from 2019 WL 1092574 (E.D. Cal. Mar. 8, 2019) 2:53 Education Legal Alliance (ELA) 3:58 R. ex rel. E.N. v. LAUSD (9th Cir. 2015) 805 F.3d 1164 7:13 California Voting Rights Act (CVRA), Elections Code sections 14025-14032 (2001) 11:25 Serrano v. Priest (177) 20 Cal.3d 25...2019-12-1348 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 35: Fall 2019 Legislative Roundup – Labor & Employment BillsHost Sloan Simmons talks with Lozano Smith partners Michelle Cannon and Gabriela Flowers, co-chairs of the firm’s Labor and Employment Practice Group, about important new labor and employment laws passed in 2019 and how they will impact public agency employers in the new year. Topics covered include employment classifications, probationary periods for classified public school employees, new lactation accommodation requirements, settlement agreements with employees, and expansion of anti-discrimination laws, among others. This a must listen as we head into the new year, as most of these new laws become effective January 1, 2020, and may require changes to agency policies. Sh...2019-12-1036 min

Let’s Talk - Lozano Smith PodcastEpisode 34: The 7 Things Every Elected Board or Council Member Should KnowLozano Smith partners Mary Lerner and Anne Collins, co-chairs of the firm’s Governance Practice Group, talk about the basics that every newly elected member of a local agency governing body should know when assuming office. This podcast isn’t just for newly electeds – it’s full of information for public officials, local agency staff, and members of the voting public too. Show Notes & References 8:00 The Brown Act 15:20 The Public Records Act 16:25 City of San Jose v. Superior Court (2017) 2 Cal.5th 608 18:42 The Political Reform Act (Government Code section 87100 et seq.) 19:19 Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700) 19:24 Podcast: Episod...2019-11-2634 min