The Morongo Unified School District Enrollment Committee held its inaugural meeting on January 26, bringing together committee members, district representatives and consultants.
Dr. Vargas opened the meeting by outlining the committee’s purpose and goals. District counsel Steven McLaughlin followed with an overview of the committee’s role and responsibilities, including legal requirements under the Brown Act and conflict-of-interest guidelines for members.
Assistant Superintendent of Business Services David Daniels provided a presentation on the district’s financial condition and enrollment trends. He reported that district enrollment peaked at approximately 10,000 students and currently stands at 7,304 for the 2025–26 school year. Projections indicate enrollment could decline to 6,821 within five years—comparable to levels last seen in 1986. Daniels noted that these trends will play a key role in informing the committee’s future work.
During the meeting, the committee elected Jennifer Cusack as chair and Karla Buchanan as vice chair. Both were unanimously approved following nominations by Jeff Brady and seconds by Wayne Hamilton.
Members also participated in an initial planning activity to identify additional data needs that will support upcoming discussions on enrollment, potential school consolidation and property considerations.
The committee’s next meeting is scheduled for February 18 at 6 p.m. For more information, visit the link below. For more information visit https://www.morongousd.com/page/enrollment-committee