Performances, programs and portables were among the main topics at a recent joint meeting of officials from the San Ramon Valley school district and San Ramon.

The city's contract has expired with its theater management company, the organization that puts on shows like this Friday's Al Jarreau performance and the upcoming America concert. The school district is in the loop because the shows have to mesh with the daily use of the Dougherty Valley High School auditorium.

San Ramon is also expanding its after-school activities for middle schoolers, with the help of the district, according to Karen McNamara, director of the city's parks and community services department.

"The city has partnered with the school district to purchase additional portables at Windemere Ranch, Gale Ranch and Iron Horse to operate after-school teen programs and summer programs," McNamara said. "Because of the school's purchasing abilities in the portables market … it made sense for them to take the lead on them"

That's after the success of an initial program at Pine Valley Middle School, she said.

"The premise is that the most successful programs for middle school age is when the program is right on the campus so the students don't have to get a ride," McNamara said.

Work with the district and the San Ramon teen council, the city is planning a teen government shadow day, allowing students to literally follow in the footsteps of city employees. McNamara said that would teach teens about the workings of city government as well as learning more about possible future employment. That program would be for students at California High and Dougherty Valley High.

The district also discussed its solar project, which will install panels at high schools. While McNamara said the final details are being worked out, she said it's likely installation will being after schools let out for the summer.

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