4 ways married couples can use tax breaks to build wealth

• October 17, 2023

By Elizabeth Ayoola | NerdWallet

The investing information provided on this page is for educational purposes only. NerdWallet, Inc. does not offer advisory or brokerage services, nor does it recommend or advise investors to buy or sell particular stocks, securities or other investments.

“Two is better than one” is an old adage that translates to finances, too. Two incomes can go much further than one, especially between married couples.

People who say “I do” also have access to various tax breaks that can give them a financial edge when it comes to building wealth. For instance, married couples filing their taxes jointly get a standard deduction of $27,700 in 2023, while single filers get a $13,850 deduction.

How can married couples act on the many tax breaks they have access to and use them to build wealth? Two certified public accountants share a few strategies for couples to consider.

Strategy 1: Investing

When married couples get a tax deduction or tax credit, there’s an opportunity to invest that extra money. There are a string of ways to invest the money, but couples could benefit from investing in themselves, says Sheneya Wilson, a CPA and founder of Fola Financial in the Bronx in New York City. Couples may choose to use their tax savings to invest in courses that improve their skills, market value and salaries, she says.

Retirement accounts like 401(k)s, IRAs or regular brokerage accounts are also an option for couples. Investing those extra dollars from tax breaks means couples have more money that can potentially grow and enjoy the benefits of compound interest.

Wilson adds that married folks can also consider alternative investments, such as commodities, gold, silver, royalties or music catalogs.

Ultimately, couples can choose investments that align with their goals and legacy.

“The best investments are going to be in line with how that person wants to leave an influence on the world,” Wilson says.

Strategy 2: Real estate

Married couples who own a property may be able to sell it and exclude some of the real estate capital gains tax from their income. For married couples filing jointly, that means they can keep up to $500,000 of the profit tax-free. Single filers, on the other hand, are capped at $250,000.

“Now think about what you can do with around $500,000 of tax-free income,” says Williams. That extra money could go toward investing in another property, she adds.

Note that couples have to own the house, use it as their main home, live there for at least two of the five years before selling and meet other rules in order to qualify for the exclusion.

Strategy 3: 529 plans

529 plans — investing plans for education that allow tax-free growth and withdrawals — are another way couples can use tax breaks to build wealth, says Jasmine Young, a CPA and founder of Southern Heritage Financial Group in Atlanta.

“It could be your niece, your nephew, your cousin, it could be you, whoever’s gonna use the money for educational expenses,” Young says. ”That’s one way for you to reduce your tax liability and put the money somewhere that’s going to give you a resource to build generational wealth.”

Some states offer deductions or credits for 529 plan contributions. A perk for married couples is that in many states, joint filers can deduct double the amount than single filers, lowering their taxable income. The amount joint filers can deduct varies from state to state.

Another way married people can benefit from 529 plan tax benefits is with the federal gift tax exclusion. While 529 plans don’t have an annual contribution limit, contributions are considered “gifts” by the IRS, which means gifting over a certain amount could lead to extra paperwork at tax time. In 2023, those married filing jointly could gift $34,000 without needing to file a gift tax return versus $17,000 for single people.

Married couples who take advantage of this larger limit can save more annually for their kids or loved one’s kids and potentially help them grow wealth faster.

Another wealth-building strategy couples can potentially use beginning in 2024 is rolling unused funds in a 529 account into a Roth IRA account for the beneficiary. By rolling unused funds into a Roth IRA, the beneficiary — be it a child or family member — can get a head start on saving for retirement. There are several conditions account owners must meet to do this, so consult a financial advisor beforehand.

Strategy 4: Entrepreneurship

If one spouse is an entrepreneur, or a couple runs a joint venture, there’s an opportunity to write off business losses during tax season, Wilson says.

“If you are married, filing jointly and your spouse is investing in starting a business, there may be a net loss from that business venture on the joint tax return because that spouse was investing in maybe educational courses [to] start their business,” she says.

In 2023, married couples with their own business can take a loss of up to $524,000, compared with $262,000 for single filers. The dollars that may have gone to paying taxes can be funneled into growing an existing business, starting a new one, or paying down debt.

Couples curious about exploring more strategies they can implement may want to speak with a finance professional like a tax advisor or financial planner.

This article was written by NerdWallet and was originally published by The Associated Press.

The article 4 Ways Married Couples Can Use Tax Breaks to Build Wealth originally appeared on NerdWallet.

​ Orange County Register 

Sofia University’s New Doctorate in Business Administration Program: Transcending Business Education

• October 17, 2023

In the bustling landscape of Orange County, where businesses thrive and innovation reigns supreme, a unique educational opportunity has emerged. Sofia University proudly introduces its Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) program, adding a new dimension to the educational offerings in the region. Rooted in the rich tradition of transpersonal education, this DBA program goes beyond traditional business studies, focusing on the holistic growth of its students. Here’s a closer look at what sets this program apart.

A Distinctive Approach

Sofia University’s DBA program is unlike any other in Orange County. While other programs may emphasize business knowledge alone, Sofia’s approach is holistic. It integrates transpersonal principles into its curriculum, encouraging students to explore not only the intricacies of business but also their personal growth. This unique blend of business acumen and personal development sets Sofia’s DBA program apart from the rest.

Competitive Pricing

Education is an investment, and Sofia University recognizes the importance of making this investment accessible. The DBA program at Sofia is competitively priced, ensuring that students receive exceptional value without an exorbitant financial burden. This affordability is a testament to Sofia’s commitment to fostering educational opportunities for all.

Benefits of Pursuing a DBA

A DBA degree opens doors to a world of opportunities. Graduates of DBA programs are equipped with advanced business knowledge, critical thinking skills, and leadership acumen. They are often sought after for senior leadership roles in corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Furthermore, a DBA can provide a competitive edge in today’s dynamic business environment, where expertise in research, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making is highly valued.

Mary Kay Chess, DBA Program Chair at Sofia University

Sofia University’s DBA Program Options

Sofia University is currently accepting applications for its DBA program, offering two unique tracks to cater to diverse needs:

1.     Chinese Language DBA: Designed for international students seeking a DBA education with a focus on the Chinese business landscape.

2.     English Language DBA (Domestic): Launching in January 2024, this program will cater to domestic students, providing them with a transformative DBA experience rooted in transpersonal education.

Join Us on this Transformative Journey

Whether you aspire to expand your career horizons, engage in meaningful research, or embark on a journey of personal growth, Sofia University’s DBA program offers a distinctive path forward. Join us in exploring the world of business through a transpersonal lens and discover the limitless possibilities that await you.

For program details and application information, visit our Sofia University DBA Program page. To speak with our admissions team, call 888.820.1484.

Sofia University – Where Business Education Meets Personal Transformation.

​ Orange County Register 

Ramen burgers, shaved ice, ube rolls coming to OC Japan Fair 2023

• October 17, 2023

Billed as one of the largest Japanese cultural festivals in Southern California, the OC Japan Fair returns to Costa Mesa from Oct. 27 through Oct. 29. Organizers expect upward of 45,000 people to attend the three-day festival, which is a lot of mouths to feed. Luckily, this year’s abundant lineup of Japanese and Asian food vendors are reason alone to check out the fair, now in its 13th year.

A handful of culinary highlights will include katsu chicken from Kagura, which has locations in Costa Mesa, Torrance and Gardena; Kuramoto Shavery, which creates Japanese-style shaved ice made with Kuramoto Ice; Tamuken’s Japanese barbecue bowls; noodles by Tokyo Yakisoba; Big and Long Potato Swirl frying up eponymous potato snacks; Rated R Ramen Burger, whose ramen-sandwiched burgers are made with wagyu beef; and ube cinnamon rolls from Ubenabon.

Beer and sake will also be on hand to quench any 21-and-over thirst, with boba teas and matcha drinks available for all ages. OC Japan Fair’s 2023 food roster is as follows:

Sukiyuki LA
Big Takoyaki
Big and Long Potato Swirl
Miniyaki Cheese Taco
Ajaj Cafe
Mr. Bully
Kagura
Got Corn?
Yakitoriyado
Yakitori Yado Matcha Latte
Gong Su Gan
Nikuman-Ya
Lobsterdamus
Ubenabon
Egghasuted
Otafuku
Rated R Ramen Burger
Kuramoto Shavery
Gluten Free Meister
Kanto Filipino Street Food
Takouaki Yamachan
Mochill Mochil Crepe
Boba Bestie
All Dat Dumpling
Iwate Wagyu
Aki Takoyaki
Gindaco USA
SVR BBQ
Amami-Ya
Waffleland
Japadog
Hot Bamboo
Tokyo Yakisoba
Hawaiian Honey Cones
Wagyu Street
RE&S
Shin-Sen-Gumi Yakitori
Kuramoto Shavery
Aoki No Chuuka
La Musubi
Lucky Ball Korean BBQ
Mr. Teddy Baker
Midoh
Daikokuya
Tokyo Style Food Truck
Okamoto
Tamuken
Arcance Cafe

The fair will also have a live blue tuna-cutting demonstration, in which a sushi chef slices a Maguro fish on stage, as well as sushi galore available for eating.

In addition to the many food offerings, guests can look forward to the “Oiran Dochu,” (which translates into “alluring procession”), a recreation of the procession done by Yoshiwara courtesans during the Edo Period; taiko drum performances, an appearance by comedian Mr. Yasumura, aka Tonikaku, who appeared on “Britain’s Got Talent” in June (the clip of his performance has since accrued 7 million views); and more.

When: 5-11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27; Noon-10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29

Where: OC Fair and Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa

Tickets: General admission is $10 for adults; free admission for children 6 and under and seniors over 65; parking is $10

​ Orange County Register 

Orange County girls athlete of the week: Maia Helmar, Newport Harbor

• October 17, 2023

Support our high school sports coverage by becoming a digital subscriber. Subscribe now

The Orange County girls athlete of the week:

Name: Maia Helmar

School: Newport Harbor

Sport: Flag football

Year: Junior

Noteworthy: Helmar threw four touchdowns, intercepted a pass and recorded several tackles to lead the Sailors, ranked No. 1 in the nation by MaxPreps, to a 27-0 victory against No. 4 Corona del Mar in the Surf League. Newport Harbor improved to 22-1.

Please send nominees for Orange County girls athlete of the week to [email protected] or @ocvarsityguy on X or Instagram

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​ Orange County Register 

New law would stop Orange County cities from selling land in violation of affordable housing laws

• October 17, 2023

Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a bill that aims to prevent cities in Orange County from selling surplus land in violation of the state’s affordable housing laws, a response to the fallout of Anaheim’s now-nixed efforts to sell Angel Stadium.

State Sen. Tom Umberg authored the legislation, which applies only to Orange County and will expire in 2030. An earlier version of the bill would have applied statewide, but Umberg’s office said, “Relentless lobbying by local governments including cities, counties, and special districts have led to the measure’s narrowing over the last 18 months.”

If a city within Orange County receives a notice of a Surplus Land Act violation from the California Department of Housing and Community Development from a planned sale of land, it would not be able to proceed with the sale without correcting the violation, according to the new legislation.

The Surplus Land Act requires priority be given to affordable housing and open space when a local government is selling excess property, including giving affordable developers first crack at negotiating for the land.

The state’s housing department, under Umberg’s bill, would also have the authority to require the surplus land to be rebid, according to Umberg’s office.

“At the very least, the people of Anaheim and Orange County deserve accountability with their tax dollars in light of the ongoing stadium mess,” said Umberg, whose district includes Anaheim.

The state notified Anaheim in late 2021 that its planned sale of Angel Stadium violated the Surplus Land Act. City leaders initially responded that the stadium property was exempt. Anaheim later agreed to pay $96 million from the sale’s proceeds toward the creation of affordable homes.

“Back in 2021, there was a reasonable question about whether a stadium leased for Major League Baseball was surplus land. But we are in a different time and place today,” Anaheim spokesperson Mike Lyster said in a statement Monday. “We have tracked the legislation and its signing and will always adhere to any applicable California law.”

Another one of Umberg’s bill signed by the governor into law last week requires a local agency that receives a violation notice to hold a public hearing to review and consider the matter.

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​ Orange County Register 

In Ducks’ 30th anniversary season, who are their top 30 players of all time?

• October 17, 2023

The Ducks have had plenty to celebrate over their 30 seasons of existence, the pinnacle of which was their Stanley Cup triumph in 2007. This year, they’ll be infusing fanfare into a celebratory campaign that will bring back legends, reintroduce logos and reflect on a proud history that’s added a refreshing element to Southern California hockey and given Orange County a team to call its own.

While the coaches, owners and fans can all be celebrated, at the end of the day, a franchise’s legacy is all about its players. Ducks broadcaster and former NHL goalie Brian Hayward, who has been with the organization since Day 1, gave us an assist in compiling a list of the top 30 players to ever don a Ducks sweater. The Southern California News Group and Hayward collaborated on the list, with the comments for players 16-30 coming from SCNG and those for the top 15 coming directly from Hayward.

SCNG selects players 16 through 30:

30. Trevor Zegras – A placeholder for things to come, representing his promise and that of this new generation of Ducks.

29. George Parros – Parros led a lineage of enforcers that also included Stu Grimson and Todd Ewen.

28. Andrew Cogliano – Cogliano was a pro’s pro, combining meticulous preparation with Herculean lower-body strength.

27. Todd Marchant – Cogliano had wheels, but Marchant could flat-out fly. He lent that speed to a defensive role in the 2007 Cup run.

26. Petr Sykora – Sykora scored the game-winning goal in the longest game in Ducks history, a quintuple-overtime affair against Dallas, en route to the 2003 Stanley Cup Final.

25. Jakob Silfverberg – Only one thing needs to be said: “Ohh-ahh, Silf-ver-berg, Ohh-ahh, Silf-ver-berg!”

24. François Beauchemin – A secondary contributor in 2007, he returned for a second stint in a leadership role.

23. Rob Niedermeyer – Blazing speed must run in the family because he and his brother Scott both made the list.

22. Jonas Hiller – The Swiss netminder’s 162 wins rank fourth in franchise history.

21. John Gibson – Gibson has made more saves than any other Ducks goalie, and could continue climbing this list.

20. Keith Carney – Super steady and never more so than during the five-OT game in which he logged more than 56 minutes.

19. Bobby Ryan – Ryan was the consolation prize for missing out on Sidney Crosby, and he trails only Teemu Selanne and Paul Kariya among Ducks in goals per game.

18. Hampus Lindholm – Soft-spoken and gentle off the ice, Lindholm rewarded the Ducks for taking him sixth overall.

17. Sami Pahlsson – A shutdown defender and a heart-and-soul guy, Pahlsson was one of four players who went on both the 2003 and 2007 runs (Andy McDonald, J.S. Giguere and Rob Niedermeyer were the others).

16. Chris Kunitz – Quiet excellence personified, Kunitz won a Cup with the Ducks, two more in Pittsburgh and an Olympic gold medal with Canada.

The esteemed Bryan Hayward selects the top 15:

15. Ryan Kesler – Highly competitive, his abrasiveness stood out for a center as talented as him. Incredible faceoff man and penalty killer, he was the perfect second-line center behind captain Ryan Getzlaf.

14. Adam Oates – One of the greatest passers ever to play in the NHL. He was a very cerebral center who saw the game on a higher level.

13. Ruslan Salei – Steady and reliable. Underappreciated nationally, he had a surprisingly good shot.  Very adept at moving people from in front of the net.

12. Sergei Fedorov – Star power. An incredible skater who not only made things happen offensively but played the 200-foot game as well as anyone.

11. Andy McDonald – The underrated center had blazing speed and hands to match. Concussions prevented him from becoming a household name.

10. Steve Rucchin – Unicorn. An undrafted Canadian college player who became the perfect complement for Paul Kariya and Teemu Selanne.

9. Guy Hebert – The original Mighty Duck taken in the expansion draft, he kept his team in a lot of games when they were badly outplayed.

8. Cam Fowler – The longest-serving Duck and a beautiful skater who can break the puck out under pressure almost single-handedly.

7. Chris Pronger – Big and nasty, he’d do whatever it took to win. He kept teammates accountable, intimidated opponents and ran the power play.

6. Jean-Sébastian Giguère – A workhorse goaltender who elevated his game in the playoffs. He won one Cup (2007) and almost single-handedly stole another (2003, when he was the playoff MVP in a losing effort). Mentally as tough as they come.

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5. Scott Niedermeyer – A quiet leader who saw the game on a different level than most. A big engine who could elevate his game when the pressure mounted and an effortless skater.

4. Paul Kariya – Incredible shot release and intimidating speed that could pull fans out of their seats.  Disciplined and dedicated to skill development.

3. Corey Perry – Great hands, long reach, a relentless drive and unbridled passion for the game made him the only league MVP in franchise history. (He is also the Ducks’ all-time leader in penalty minutes).

2. Ryan Getzlaf – The complete package: size, strength, incredible vision combined with leadership attributes. A dominant center.

1. Teemu Selanne – A dynamic goal-scorer who played with passion and became the face of the franchise. The best trade in Ducks history. He scored the most important goal in franchise history against Detroit, en route to the 2007 Stanley Cup.

​ Orange County Register 

10 Southern California escape rooms that elevate the terror for the season

• October 17, 2023

Escape rooms are called as such for a reason: As soon as you’re locked in, your goal is to get out as fast as possible.

You’ll want to move especially quickly when these rooms are filled with scary creatures.

If you think you have what it takes to solve clues while monsters and serial killers are creeping on you, then a horror-themed escape room is a perfect outing for couples, groups of friends or families this haunting season. As the escape room concept has risen in popularity in recent years, these spaces have started to theme the experiences to specific holidays and Halloween is no exception.

Here are 10 Halloween-themed escape rooms in Southern California. Make sure to call ahead to make reservations.

Los Angeles County

Escape Hotel Hollywood

When: 1-11:10 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 1 p.m.-12:40 a.m. Friday; 11:30 a.m.-12:40 a.m. Saturday; 11:30 a.m.-11:10 p.m. Sunday

Where: 6633 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles

Tickets: $39-$110 at 323-848 4954 or escapehotelhollywood.com.

This place bills itself as an entire hotel full of horror-themed escape rooms. With themes like a haunted daycare, a circus full of freaks and, of course, zombies, each room offers a terrifying option. On Sundays in October, there is an event dubbed Hide & Seek, which is a full contact horror survival game where all of the rooms open up at the hotel for one massive escape room game.

Maze Rooms

When: 10 a.m.-11 p.m. daily

Where: 4365 Sepulveda Boulevard, Culver City

Tickets: Starting at $37 per player at 310-595-2881 or la.mazerooms.com/rooms/theyre-coming.

This place offers several rooms at various locations, but for those who want a classic experience with the undead should check out “They’re Coming” in Culver City. This room starts off with your group doing what seems like a simple escape game, but then the undead rise in the heart of Los Angeles, and the government has quarantined you.

Quest Room

When: 10 a.m.-midnight daily

Where: 1815 Hawthorne Boulevard, Redondo Beach

Tickets: Starting at $127 for two people at 323-307-2090 questroom.com.

A serial killer has been plaguing the streets of Los Angeles and you and your friends find yourselves at the home of the most recent victim to help investigate the crime. This escape room is called “Resurrection,” and be careful because the home of the most recent victim may not be empty.

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Orange County

Escape Room Era

When: 2-10:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; noon-midnight Friday-Saturday

Where: 3365 E Miraloma Ave., Anaheim

Tickets: $52 per person with a minimum of four people per booking in October. 657-262-6302 or escaperoomera.com.

You can choose your own level of fear here since this Anaheim spot offers escape rooms with different levels of terror. For real horror, there’s “The Hide,” where you and your friends are private investigators gathering evidence against a suspected serial killer. Lights will be out at times, there will be live actors and try not to get freaked out by the strobe lights and fog effects. The slightly less scary room is “The Overgrown,” which is more of a science-fiction based zombie adventure where you will be looking for a cure before the zombies get you.

Escapade Games

When: 3:15-11:15 p.m. Monday-Friday; 11:15 a.m.-11:15 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Where: 1111 E. Commonwealth Ave., Fullerton

Tickets: $69 at 909-631-6716 or escaperoomera.com/escapade-games.

The organizers of “Zoe: Reborn” promise “100 minutes of pure terror,” with this escape room, which takes you into Zoe’s world as you navigate from her bedroom to her Uncle Robert’s lair through haunting props, eerie music, and realistic set decorations. Guests will have to solve puzzles that include haunted paintings, satanic circles and even buckets of blood. Plus it’s a full contact experience with live actors. It’s so scary that no one under 16 years of age is allowed to enter.

Legacy Escape Rooms

When: 1-10:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; 12:30-11:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Where: 1525 Mesa Verde Drive East, Suite 212, ​Costa Mesa

Tickets: $39-$55 per person at 949-335-9677 or legacyescaperooms.com.

There are a few scary game options here and the newest one is “Zombie Rising.” Your group must survive the zombie apocalypse and at times your team must even split up to cover more ground.

Riverside County

Inland Empire Escape Rooms

When: 2:30-10:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; noon-midnight Saturday and Sunday

Where: 7000 Indiana Ave., Suite 107, Riverside

Tickets: $30-$40 per person at 951-777-8059 or inlandempireescaperooms.com.

The story of the “Panic Room” is set inside the eerie Kimberly Asylum. Guests must escape before the orderlies come to take you to the evil Dr. Jostle before he performs an archaic and painful procedure.

Breakout Escape Rooms

When: Hours vary; Open Tuesday-Sunday

Where: 22500 Town Circle, Moreno Valley

Tickets: $25-$30 per person at 951-444-4263 or breakyouout.com/the-clinic.

Those who are afraid to go to the doctor will find their nightmares come to life at the medical-themed horror room dubbed “The Clinic.” There’s something strange going on in this clinic where patients come to get better, but many go missing instead.

San Bernardino County

Confusion Escapes

When: 3:30-9 p.m. Wednesdays; 4-9 p.m. Thursdays; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; noon-9 p.m. Sundays

Where: 245 E. Redlands Blvd., San Bernardino

Tickets: Minimum $150 for three people at 909-639-7077 or confusionescapes.com.

Would you book an Airbnb that is rumored to have belonged to a powerful witch? That’s the premise of the “45 Lampkin Lane” escape room where you won’t want to extend your stay but instead will want to escape before whatever is lurking inside the home catches you.

Unity Escape Rooms

When: 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Sunday

Where: 2015 W. Park Ave. #2, Redlands

Tickets: $30 per person; $22.50 for children under 14 at 877-338-6489 or unityescaperooms.com/redlands/the-cabin.

This escape room experience is called “The Cabin: Stanley’s Sanctuary.” Once you and your friends enter, you must find the book that Stanley the Toy Maker has used to trap the souls of his victims.

​ Orange County Register 

Capistrano Unified to vote on a parental notification policy

• October 17, 2023

Capistrano Unified School District will be the next Orange County district to discuss a parental notification policy on Wednesday, Oct. 18.

Like the policy adopted by Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified earlier this month, the proposal is written to solely focus on mental health concerns and has no mention of gender identity. Parental notification policies recently enacted by other California school districts have included a set of guidelines outlining how school administrators or staff will inform parents that their student may be transgender, such as if they request to use different pronouns or changing rooms that differ from their “assigned biological sex at birth.”

Capistrano Unified’s proposed policy says “parents/guardians will be notified if a student is exhibiting symptoms of depression, anxiety, a dramatic shift in academic performance, social withdrawal or other significant changes affecting a student’s well-being.”

Multiple sections of the proposed policy are verbatim to what was enacted by PYLUSD on Oct. 10, with the emphasis placed on mental health concerns. But PYLUSD Superintendent Alex Cherniss said there could be instances when a teacher or school staff member would notify a parent if they became aware that a student desired or began to transition genders, requested to go by a different pronoun or expressed distress because their gender expression does not match their gender identity.

It’s not yet clear if that is also the intent behind Capistrano Unified’s proposal.

The policy comes at the request of Trustee Lisa Davis who did not respond to a request for comment. During a September meeting, Davis did not go into details about what would be included in the policy but said, “As educators, we are mandated reporters, so we are already mandated to report on anything that is concerning over the safety of a child.”

“Due to the current nationwide mental health crisis exacerbated by the global pandemic, the Capistrano Unified School District recognizes the need for frequent, ongoing and oftentimes immediate communication between school administration, staff, and parents/guardians,” the proposed policy reads. “Furthermore, with reports of depression, anxiety and suicide rates at an all-time high among public school students, action is needed to address this emerging crisis and support the health and welfare of district students.”

The proposed policy states that district employees, administrators and certificated staff are to “collaborate with parents in evaluating the needs of students having academic, attendance, social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties and in identifying strategies and programs that may assist such students in maximizing their potential.”

It specifically instructs district officials to involve a principal or school counselor as soon as they become aware that a student may have suicidal intentions based on their verbalizations or acts of self-harm. In this instance, the principal is to immediately secure medical treatment or mental health services, keep the student under continuous adult supervision until a parent or appropriate support agency is able to intervene and notify law enforcement and other emergency assistance if suicide is actively being threatened.

Capistrano Unified’s proposal also says officials should notify parents if their child is in possession of a prohibited substance, experiences sexual harassment or is involved in a verbal or physical altercation.

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In other districts that have adopted these policies, situations that would warrant alerting a parent include requests to use different names or pronouns or requests to change sex-segregated programs (like athletic teams or changing facilities) that differ from the student’s “assigned biological sex at birth.” Those policies also include notification guidelines if a student reports self-harm, suicidal ideation or injury to others.

Capistrano Unified would become the latest California school district — and third in Orange County —to enact what’s been dubbed a parental notification policy if adopted on Wednesday.

Orange Unified was the first Orange County school district to adopt the policy in early September; PYLUSD became the second last week. And many parental rights activist groups say they will attend Tustin Unified’s next meeting to encourage the policy to be addressed there.

Capistrano Unified has 63 campuses, making it the largest district in Orange County. The district includes the cities of San Clemente, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo and Rancho Santa Margarita.

The Capistrano Unified board is set to meet at 33122 Valle Rd. in San Juan Capistrano at 7 p.m. on Wednesday.

​ Orange County Register