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  • Exciting Career Opportunities at MPUSD

    This message is being sent to MPUSD families. We typically consolidate all news items into the weekly MPUSD News: Community Updates on Saturdays, but we want to ensure that families had an opportunity to see these specific opportunities at MPUSD. The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District has some exciting career opportunities to share. If you know of someone who is looking for a career in public education, please pass this information along to them. ADDED BONUS:  If you refer someone to our Classified (non teaching rank positions) Job Fair on  Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 9 a.m. - 12 noon , you have an opportunity to win a $100 VISA gift card (not paid for out of public funds; this is a donation). Tell the candidate to note your name and contact information during the application process or when they attend the job fair. A winner will be selected and notified following the job fair. Opportunity #1 MPUSD Classified Job Fair Saturday, September 21, 2024 9 a.m. - 12 noon Recruiting for several high-need positions including Early Learning Assistants, Special Education Assistants, Maintenance, Custodial, Bus Drivers, Nutrition Services, and so much more Opportunity #2 MPUSD Alder Teacher Residency Program Individuals can earn a $40,000 living stipend while earning their masters degree and teaching credential in one year, as well as priority employment within MPUSD following the residency year. The application deadline is October 1, 2024. Opportunity #3 Wanted: Various Preschool Openings Preschool (Early Learning) Assistant Infant Toddler Teacher Office Clerk/Aide Associate Teacher 12 months (Preschool teachers can now earn over $70,000 per year) Opportunity #4 Wanted:  After School Program Leader and  After School Site Director We have many other exciting opportunities that may meet your schedule. All MPUSD jobs may be found on  EdJoin .

    Wednesday, Sep 11 2024

  • MPUSD eNews | September 10

    The MPUSD eNews is the weekly internal newsletter for MPUSD all staff. Board of Education Board of Education   - The Board of Education meets this evening on September 10, 2024, in open session at approximately 6:30 p.m. The agenda is available here . This meeting is at a special location at Monterey High School located at 101 Herrmann Drive in Monterey or you can join via Zoom . If you miss the meeting you can learn about the actions the Board takes in our  Board Highlights later tonight. Of Interest to Staff Free Monterey Bay Aquarium Tickets - Celebrate the Aquarium’s 40th Anniversary with free admission for locals . In celebration of its 40th anniversary, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is offering free admission to Monterey County residents throughout October 2024 as a thank-you for years of support.   All guests, regardless of age, must have a ticket. Entry is valid from 12–4 p.m. on the day of your reservation. Online ticket reservations are required, and ticket availability is limited. Admission is free for Monterey County residents. Photo ID and proof of residency are required at the door for all guests aged 18 and over. Classroom Organization and Management Program for New Teachers  -  New hire teachers who attended the summer orientation professional development have been invited to continue their COMP certification. COMP is MPUSD’s professional learning series designed to help teachers create consistent learning environments through eight modules. Upcoming modules focus on student behavior, engagement, and instructional variety. Session details and registration may be found  here , and educators are encouraged to attend. Extra Work Requisition (EWR) or paid hours are available for those attending outside of contract hours. For more info, reach out to your COMP presenters Holly McKrill, Amanda Kennedy, Melo Amador, or Heather Johnson. Introducing the School Counseling Bimonthly Newsletter -  MPUSD is excited to announce the release of the first issue of the School Counseling Bimonthly Newsletter . This publication spotlights the vital role of school counselors and their contributions to the overall mission and values of our schools. While this issue provides an introduction to the counseling role, future editions will feature specific projects and counselors. If you'd like to highlight or shout out the amazing work happening at your site, submit a form using the link below. Please feel free to share this with your school communities so they can give a shoutout to a counselor via the  shoutout form . School Crisis Resources   - It’s essential for district and school administrators to be prepared for campus crises. Geared toward our administrators (these may also be of interest to all MPUSD staff), the ACSA Resource Hub offers a comprehensive library of tools to support schools during challenging times. In addition to ACSA’s School Crisis Toolkit, the Resource Hub provides resources on key topics, from natural disasters to the aftermath violence on campus and suicide prevention and response. For more information and resources on crisis response, visit the  ACSA Resource Hub . Free CANVA for Education Coming Soon - MPUSD is excited to announce a collaboration with CANVA to provide free access to CANVA for Education for the MPUSD team once the district is approved. This means we will soon have access to education-specific templates designed to boost engagement. We will get to choose from a library of resources to enhance projects with GIFs, videos, animations, and music. Stay tuned for the district wide announcement once approval is confirmed. Marina Tree and Garden Club School Garden Grants  - This is applicable to our Marina learning community only. The Marina Tree and Garden Club is dedicated to enhancing civic beautification through tree planting, native plants, and resilient gardens. As part of their mission to engage with educators, MT&GC offers annual School Garden Grants to Marina schools. Teachers in Marina, from grades 1 to 12, who are incorporating lessons on ecosystems, plants, soil, and gardening are encouraged to apply for a grant of up to $250. This funding aims to support school garden projects for the 2024–2025 school year. The grant proposal deadline is September 16, 2024. More than one teacher at a school site may apply for the grant to do a project with students. If you have questions or need support, our own Julie Haws ( jhaws@mpusd.k12.ca.us ) at Los Arboles Middle can assist as she is very familiar with the process. For local gardening resources and vendors, visit  Marina Tree and Garden Club and check the Gardening Links section.  Apply today ! Districtwide News Parent/Guardian Drug Education Awareness Night   - MPUSD's Monterey learning community schools are hosting a parent/guardian drug education awareness night on September 10, 2024, at 6 p.m. at Monte Vista TK-8 School in Monterey. This event is open to all and features a panel of experts and stories from families affected by drugs. Don’t miss this important opportunity to learn and engage! Partnered with Prescribe Safe & Montage Health. Stay tuned for similar events in Marina and Seaside! Learn  more . National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month  -  September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Our secondary level colleagues educate students during this month. In an effort to set the stage of these conversations with high school students during class, the Communications team in partnership with the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support department produced a short three-minute informational highlight video in English and  Spanish . MPUSD's Saturday Academy - MPUSD's popular Saturday Academy is back in session across most school sites! Far from the old "Saturday School" stereotype, this program offers fun and enriching lessons from credentialed teachers, helping students catch up on missed instruction and maintain perfect attendance. With engaging activities and free breakfast, it’s a great way to support learning. Visit our  website for details, including the 2024-2025 Saturday Academy dates! Seeking MPUSD's 7th Cohort of Resident Teachers - Do you have a relative, friend, or neighbor who is interested in the teaching profession? MPUSD is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 MPUSD Alder Teacher Residency Program. This one-year program offers aspiring educators the opportunity to earn a master's degree and teaching credential while working alongside experienced MPUSD teachers during the program. Participants receive a $40,000 living stipend, tuition reimbursement, and priority hiring for full-time positions. Applications are due by October 1, 2024. For more details, visit our  website . Federal Survey Card Day - At MPUSD, we serve a population of military-connected students at several of our schools. As you know, MPUSD receives funding from the federal government to help educate our students. This year’s Federal Survey Card date is  Tuesday, October 22, 2024 . We will ask parents, guardians, and caregivers to complete the electronic card immediately in a newly created Frevvo form with a link sent via ParentSquare. Stay tuned for more information from your school site administrator or office, and via the messages going out through ParentSquare next month. Cut to the Campus   We always welcome news about your school site or department for Cut to the Campus. Please share information by emailing mmcfadden@mpusd.net or replying to this ParentSquare post. 19 inspiring  Olson Elementary School  students took the stage last week, sharing why they should represent their peers on the student council. Their powerful speeches are a reminder that student voice matters, and that every vote counts. These young elementary school leaders are paving the way for all of us, setting an example of democracy in action ahead of our own Election Day on November 5. Ord Terrace Elementary School is excited about its upcoming special cooking class on September 17 featuring the Blue Zones Project and a nutritionist. This event promises to be both fun and informative, offering healthy snack options for the school’s students, families, and staff. They are eager to see how it resonates with the community and gauge interest for future family engagement opportunities. Seaside High  is off to a fast start this year, with successful Back to School and Senior Parent Nights seeing strong community turnout. The school thanks families for their continued support. Seaside also hosts the district’s Newcomer Academy, with 42 students new to the U.S. learning English. With over 20 student clubs, including drama, robotics, music, GSA, and weightlifting, there are plenty of ways for students to get involved. MPUSD Way We love highlighting our staff. Share about a peer or supervisor for us to highlight in future editions throughout the school year. Email information to mmcfadden@mpusd.net or replying to this ParentSquare post. Service Mindset - Crumpton Elementary School is truly fortunate to have such dedicated Nutrition Services  employees. Lunchtime can be hectic, but Loyann, Lorraine,  and  Tony  consistently serve all of our students quickly and efficiently, always with smiles on their faces. As students walk into the cafeteria, it's heartwarming to hear how kindly they speak to each child, making sure they feel welcomed and cared for. Their daily interactions show just how much they care about our students. Loyann, Lorraine, and Tony—thank you for being such warm and friendly faces for everyone! Every Person Matters - Seaside High School is proud to showcase the remarkable efforts of its staff. Carina Casissa inspired students by challenging them to work without scaffolds and learn from their mistakes, while Elizabeth Scott implemented a clear GLEW routine with well-defined success criteria. Josh Davis supported students in essay writing using a graphic organizer to enhance their reasoning and evidence citation. The school extends its gratitude to Lily Hernandez for her exceptional support to a family in need, and to Priscilla Vazquez, Jordan Unfried, and Hugo Solarzano , along with its College and Career partners , for a successful senior night featuring a USCU admission rep. A big thank you to Michelle Ferrari, Steve Vasquez , and Mandee Scorpiniti for their dedication during the football season kickoff. And, kudos to the swift response of Joe Summers, Hugo Solarzano , and  Erik Lualemana to a school incident.  Service Mindset - Shoutout to the amazing office duo at Ord Terrace Elementary School , Araceli and  Nelly ! These two are the heart and soul of Ord Terrace, ensuring students get to class on time, their needs are met with care, and that staff always have the support they need. The moment you step into the office, Araceli and Nelly make you feel like part of their family. Whether it’s helping students succeed or making sure parents are taken care of, they’re always ready to jump in. And they do it all with style—rocking fire fits and spreading bubbly vibes! Thank you, Araceli and Nelly, for making Ord Terrace more than just a school! Every Person Matters - High five to our amazing 6th-grade teacher, Danielle Borde , at Ord Terrace Elementary School ! Danielle is the ultimate team player, always stepping up to support new teachers with her warm guidance and fresh ideas. She’s got a deep understanding of how the district works and always brings her sparkle to make the awesome things at Ord Terrace even better!  As the anchor of our team, Danielle keeps us grounded, united, and moving forward together with confidence and positivity. She’s the steady force that makes our crew feel strong and connected! Thank you, Danielle, for your leadership, energy, and for making our school community shine!  MPUSD in the News Monterey County Weekly: Local school districts are asking voters to approve 14 bond measures for upgrades Monterey Herald: Community estate sale raises over $43,000 for nonprofits Reminders: Info in Previous Editions Worthy of Repeat MPUSD Classified Job Fair - Pssst ... pass it on! The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District is hosting a job fair to fill various classified (non-teaching) positions across the district. Share this information with family and friends so they can explore the opportunities to make a difference in our community. Tell them to note your name as a referral during the registration process and your name will be entered to win a gift card.  Participants can  register here .  📅 Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024 🕘 Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. 📍 Location: District Services Center, 540 Canyon Del Rey, Del Rey Oaks FREE Parent Symposium and Resource Fair   -  Our partner, the Monterey County Office of Education, in coordination with several community organizations and educational institutions, will host a FREE Parent Symposium and Resource Fair on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at Hartnell College in Salinas from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. All parents are invited - share this with your families. The event is FREE of charge, including breakfast and lunch, and childcare will be available. Register today ! District English Language Advisory Committee  -  The district’s English Language Learner Advisory Committee will hold its first meeting on September 25, 2024, from 6 - 7:30 p.m. at th e Dual Language Academy of the Monterey Peninsula, located at 1650 Sonoma Avenue in Seaside. This first meeting, the committee will learn about the responsibilities of the DELAC, dive into student data, and learn about MPUSD's exciting policies. Learn more on our  website . Middle and High School Teachers -   Monterey Jazz is excited to announce audition opportunities to join their remarkable Regional All-Star ensembles in the 2024-2025 school year! Middle school and high school musicians currently enrolled in a music ensemble at their school are encouraged to apply. The All-Star members will enjoy performance opportunities at various venues including Monterey Jazz Festival, San Jose Jazz Summer Fest, Forest Theater, Folktale Winery, and Sunset Center to name a few. The deadline for application and video submission is 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, October 13, 2024. Please see the  audition criteria . Please contact Claire Kim-Shin, Director of Education at claire@montereyjazz.org if you have any questions. The application process does NOT require any fees! Applicants must submit the application form AND audition videos to be considered. MJF Regional All Star Band Application Form MJF Regional All Star Vocal Ensemble Application Form MJF Regional All Star Middle School Combo Application Form   CPR/AED Classes - Have you ever wanted to take a CPR/AED course? Do you need to renew your CPR/AED card? An upcoming workshop focused on adult, child, and infant CPR/AED is being offered outside of MPUSD. Classes are $70 per person and come with a certification card valid for two years. To register for classes, please visit our website  www.elevateservice.org . For any questions you have, you can submit via their website or email info@elevateservice.org .  This offering is not sponsored by MPUSD and being promoted in the event employees are interested in a course. Classes are available this fall in Monterey as follows: October 7 | 5:30 p.m. October 21 | 5:30 p.m. November 7 | 5:30 p.m. November 25 | 5:30 p.m. December 2 | 5:30 p.m. December 16 | 5:30 p.m.

    Tuesday, Sep 10 2024

  • MPUSD News: Community Updates | September 7

    Weekly communication from the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District. Breaking News Parent/Guardian Drug Education Awareness Night  - MPUSD's Monterey learning community schools are hosting a parent/guardian drug education awareness night on September 10, 2024, at 6 p.m. at Monte Vista TK-8 School in Monterey. This event is open to all families districtwide   and features a panel of experts and stories from families affected by drugs. Don’t miss this important opportunity to learn and engage! Partnered with Prescribe Safe & Montage Health. Stay tuned for similar events in Marina and Seaside! Learn  more . Seeking MPUSD's 7th Cohort of Resident Teachers - MPUSD is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 MPUSD Alder Teacher Residency Program. This one-year program offers aspiring educators the opportunity to earn a master's degree and teaching credential while working alongside experienced MPUSD teachers during the program. Participants receive a $40,000 living stipend, tuition reimbursement, and priority hiring for full-time positions. Applications are due by October 1, 2024. For more details, visit our  website . Information of Interest MPUSD's Saturday Academy - MPUSD's popular Saturday Academy is back in session across most school sites! Far from the old "Saturday School" stereotype, this program offers fun and enriching lessons from credentialed teachers, helping students catch up on missed instruction and maintain perfect attendance. With engaging activities and free breakfast, it’s a great way to support learning. Parents can sign their child up easily through ParentSquare when each school shares its specific schedule. For more details, including the districtwide schedule, visit our  website !       Annual Commemoration of 9/11 - Our partners at the City of Seaside Police and City of Seaside Fire offer the annual commemoration of 9/11 on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, from 10 - 11 a.m. This event is open to the entire community. MPUSD Celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month: Honoring Pioneers of Change - The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District Board of Education has adopted a resolution recognizing September 15 - October 15, 2024, as National Hispanic Heritage Month. This annual celebration honors the rich heritage, history, traditions, and contributions of American citizens with roots in Mexico, Spain, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Join MPUSD as we celebrate the cultural diversity that enriches our community. Learn more on our  website . Board of Education Board of Education - The Board of Education meets on September 10, 2024, in open session at approximately 6:30 p.m. The agenda is available here . This meeting is at a special location at Monterey High School located at 101 Herrmann Drive in Monterey or you can join via Zoom . If you miss the meeting you can learn about the actions the Board takes in our  Board Highlights later that evening. Reminders: Information Previously Published Worthy of Mention FREE Parent Symposium and Resource Fair - Our partner, the Monterey County Office of Education, in coordination with several community organizations and educational institutions, will host a FREE Parent Symposium and Resource Fair on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at Hartnell College in Salinas from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. All parents are invited. The event is FREE of charge, including breakfast and lunch, and childcare will be available.  Register today ! Join the MPUSD Team - Are you interested in a rewarding career with the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District? We’re hosting a job fair to fill various classified (non-teaching) positions across the district. Come explore the opportunities to make a difference in our community. Walk-ins are welcome, but pre-registration is preferred.  Register today . We look forward to meeting you! 📅  Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024 🕘  Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. 📍  Location: District Services Center, 540 Canyon Del Rey, Del Rey Oaks Upcoming Events Most  events  are linked to  MPUSD's website  to receive more information. You may also access the district's school year calendar  here . 9.9    Crumpton Elementary School Back to School Night 9.10     Board of Education Meeting | Monterey High School (Special Location Change) 9.12   Marina Child Development Center Back to School Night 9.17   Marina High School Back to School Night 9.24     Board of Education Meeting | District Services Center 9.25   District English Learner Advisory Committee 9.26   MPUSD Local Control Accountability Plan Committee 9.26  Monterey Adult School and Adult Transitions Program Back to School Night

    Saturday, Sep 07 2024

  • Exciting and Free Family and Community Engagement Cl...

    At MPUSD, we’re excited to offer a variety of free classes packed with valuable tools and resources to support your family. From early childhood development to social-emotional learning and  college preparation , our sessions cover essential topics to help you and your children thrive. And that’s not all— free food and  childcare are provided to make it even easier for you to participate! Whether you're a parent of a preschooler or a high schooler, these classes are open to  all families —no need to attend the school where the class is offered. It’s also a great chance to connect with other parents and share experiences! Here are the upcoming class offerings: Abriendo Puertas (Spanish only): Tuesdays, September 3 – October 29 at Del Rey Woods Elementary Face & Heart (English only): Wednesdays, September 4 – October 30 at Seaside High School PIQE: Social Emotional Learning (English & Spanish): Mondays, September 9 – November 4 at Los Arboles Middle School PIQE: Family Bridge to College (English & Spanish): Tuesdays, October 15 – November 5 at Marina High School, and Wednesdays, October 16 – November 6 at Monterey High School Harmony at Home: Children’s 1st Program (English only): Thursdays, October 17 – 24 at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. School of the Arts Learn more and register on our  website ​. Need assistance registering? Touch base with the community liaison at your school site or ask a staff member in your school office. Abriendo Puertas/Opening Doors (Spanish Only) Face and Heart (English Only) PIQE: Social Emotional Learning (English & Spanish) PIQE: Social Emotional Learning (English & Spanish) Overall Programs Fall and Spring Overall Programs Fall and Spring

    Friday, Sep 06 2024

  • Message from the Superintendent

    September 4, 2024   MPUSD Families and Team Members, As each new school year begins, there is much excitement and hope for the teaching, learning, and relationships built within our school campuses. Amidst this excitement, today brings the horrific news of a school shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia. I am deeply saddened and frustrated that we must endure yet another senseless act of violence. My sympathy and desire for comfort and healing extend to the Georgia community, especially the victims, their families, and educators at the school. As a parent and educator, I continue to be especially concerned about the mental and emotional impact these events may have on our children. Our school community has experienced many challenges in recent years and we have seen an increase in the volume of social and emotional challenges our students, their families, and our staff have endured.  These types of violent events in schools and communities often have far-reaching impacts and may surface feelings of anxiety, fear, and depression among students, staff, and families. We want to assure you that the safety and well-being of our students and staff continue to be a top priority at MPUSD. We continue to be diligent in our safety and security measures to ensure we are doing everything we can to protect our students and staff. We also encourage everyone to speak up if they see or hear anything that could pose a threat to school or district safety. Below I have attached some resources that may be helpful as you talk to your children about these events. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your principal or to me at  superintendentsmemo@mpusd.net  if you feel your child needs support during this difficult time. We are here to serve and offer support during this challenging time. Respectfully, PK Diffenbaugh Superintendent Resources to Support Talking to Children Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers Responding to Tragedy: Resources for Educators and Parents How to Talk to Children About Tragedies How to Talk to Your Kid About Gun Violence

    Thursday, Sep 05 2024

  • MPUSD eNews | September 3

    The MPUSD eNews is the weekly internal newsletter for MPUSD all staff. Of Interest to Staff Free Educator Opportunity - Participate in the Monterey Bay Aquarium's  Climate Action Project Summit , a three-event summit for educators to empower students in creating meaningful change in their communities through climate action. Who: Open to 3rd-12th grade educators of all subjects. When: Kickoff Event: October 18-19, 2024 (includes an optional overnight stay at the Aquarium). Mid-Year Event: February 22, 2025. Final Project Symposium: May 17, 2025. Application: The CAPS application closes September 16, 2024. Notifications in late September. Cost: Free, with a stipend for participants who complete the program by May 2025. Middle and High School Teachers -   Monterey Jazz is excited to announce audition opportunities to join their remarkable Regional All-Star ensembles in the 2024-2025 school year! Middle school and high school musicians currently enrolled in a music ensemble at their school are encouraged to apply. The All-Star members will enjoy performance opportunities at various venues including Monterey Jazz Festival, San Jose Jazz Summer Fest, Forest Theater, Folktale Winery, and Sunset Center to name a few. The deadline for application and video submission is 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, October 13, 2024. Please see the  audition criteria . Please contact Claire Kim-Shin, Director of Education at claire@montereyjazz.org if you have any questions. The application process does NOT require any fees! Applicants must submit the application form AND audition videos to be considered. MJF Regional All Star Band Application Form MJF Regional All Star Vocal Ensemble Application Form MJF Regional All Star Middle School Combo Application Form   Districtwide News September is Attendance Awareness Month   - Superintendent PK Diffenbaugh takes 90 seconds to spotlight something super important—attendance! Let's kick off Attendance Awareness Month by discovering how showing up every single day is the key to unlocking success at school. Tune in to a message in English or  Spanish from the Superintendent. Feel free to share with families, too, in your weeklies. Parent/Guardian Drug Education Awareness Night   - MPUSD's Monterey learning community schools are hosting a parent/guardian drug education awareness night on September 10, 2024, at 6 p.m. at Monte Vista TK-8 School in Monterey. This event is open to all and features a panel of experts and stories from families affected by drugs. Don’t miss this important opportunity to learn and engage! Partnered with Prescribe Safe & Montage Health. Stay tuned for similar events in Marina and Seaside! Learn  more . District English Language Advisory Committee  -  The district’s English Language Learner Advisory Committee will hold its first meeting on September 25, 2024, from 6 - 7:30 p.m. at the Dual Language Academy of the Monterey Peninsula, located at 1650 Sonoma Avenue in Seaside. This first meeting, the committee will learn about the responsibilities of the DELAC, dive into student data, and learn about MPUSD's exciting policies. Learn more on our  website . Cut to the Campus   We always welcome news about your school site or department for Cut to the Campus. Please share information by emailing mmcfadden@mpusd.net or replying to this ParentSquare post. In high school football news this past weekend, Monterey High defeated Alisal 40 - 14, Marina High   lost to Pacific Grove 38 - 6, and   Seaside High fell to Sacred Heart 38-6. Good luck this weekend teams! Arts and music continues to be a stronghold at MPUSD.  Marshall Elementary   will kick off the season with a student performance of Nemo on September 12. The  Monterey Adult School  successfully launched its fall garden workshop series over the weekend. The session on fall/winter succession crops was led by Cathy Rivera from our Sustainable Seaside Partner. We were also fortunate to have the UC Master Gardeners of Monterey and Santa Cruz counties involved, thanks in part to Martha Henry, a Master Gardener and Digital Academy teacher at MPUSD, who contributed her expertise and helped coordinate their participation. In honor of International Overdose Awareness Day, the  Monterey High School  Narcan Saves Life Club pledged to stay drug-free and took their message campuswide. The club created a powerful poster, inviting all MHS students to join them in pledging to be drug-free, along with handing out purple bracelets and ribbons. The poster was available during lunch, a day ahead of International Overdose Awareness Day, where the club set up a table to educate their peers on the importance of staying drug-free and the impact of overdose prevention.  Seaside High School is thrilled to announce that Spartan senior, Oscar Martinez, has been accepted into the prestigious SFJAZZ High School All-Stars Big Band! Comprised of 20-25 of the finest young jazz musicians in the Bay Area, this elite group is selected annually through a highly competitive audition process. Oscar has been diligently preparing for this opportunity for over a year, and his hard work paid off when he traveled to San Francisco last weekend to audition.  MPUSD Way We love highlighting our staff. Share about a peer or supervisor for us to highlight in future editions throughout the school year. Email information to mmcfadden@mpusd.net or replying to this ParentSquare post. Service Mindset - Let’s give a roaring shoutout to Helen, Ellen and Maria   at Ord Terrace Elementary School ! They are the masterminds behind OT's yummy breakfast, lunch, and snacks that keep the Ord Terrace Otters energized and ready to tackle the day. They zip through the halls, fresh fruit in hand, making classroom deliveries with smiles that light up a room. Thanks to their hard work, the salad bar is now open and buzzing with excitement. Positive Culture - Big cheers to  Ord Terrace Elementary School's Amy Ross , the queen of warm welcomes and heartwarming goodbyes! Every morning, she greets students with a kindness that turns even the sleepiest yawns into bright, eager smiles. Amy’s classroom is a magical haven where every student feels like they truly belong, sparking joy and a love for learning. And when the school day ends, her cheerful goodbyes leave the kids walking out with a bounce in their step, knowing they are cherished and appreciated. Amy, you make every day at Ord Terrace shine! Why MPUSD Why I Work Where I Work - In honor Attendance Awareness Month in September, we highlight Marina High School Attendance Clerk Claudia Ramirez in Why I Work Where I Work .  Read about Claudia's work here and take two minutes to watch a video about her role at Marina High here and how she supports students and families. Reminders: Info in Previous Editions Worthy of Repeat MPUSD Classified Job Fair - Pssst ... pass it on! The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District is hosting a job fair to fill various classified (non-teaching) positions across the district. Share this information with family and friends so they can explore the opportunities to make a difference in our community. Tell them to note your name as a referral during the registration process and your name will be entered to win a gift card. Participants can  register here .  📅 Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024 🕘 Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. 📍 Location: District Services Center, 540 Canyon Del Rey, Del Rey Oaks FREE Parent Symposium and Resource Fair   -  Our partner, the Monterey County Office of Education, in coordination with several community organizations and educational institutions, will host a FREE Parent Symposium and Resource Fair on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at Hartnell College in Salinas from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. All parents are invited - share this with your families. The event is FREE of charge, including breakfast and lunch, and childcare will be available. Register today ! CPR/AED Classes - Have you ever wanted to take a CPR/AED course? Do you need to renew your CPR/AED card? An upcoming workshop focused on adult, child, and infant CPR/AED is being offered outside of MPUSD. Classes are $70 per person and come with a certification card valid for two years. To register for classes, please visit our website  www.elevateservice.org . For any questions you have, you can submit via their website or email info@elevateservice.org .  This offering is not sponsored by MPUSD and being promoted in the event employees are interested in a course. Classes are available this fall in Monterey as follows: September 16 | 5:30 p.m. October 7 | 5:30 p.m. October 21 | 5:30 p.m. November 7 | 5:30 p.m. November 25 | 5:30 p.m. December 2 | 5:30 p.m. December 16 | 5:30 p.m.

    Tuesday, Sep 03 2024

  • MPUSD News: Community Updates | August 31

    Weekly communication from the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District. Breaking News September is Attendance Awareness Month -  Superintendent PK Diffenbaugh takes 90 seconds to spotlight something super important—attendance! Let's kick off Attendance Awareness Month by discovering how showing up every single day is the key to unlocking success at school. Tune in below and see why being present matters more than ever!                           Parent and Family Engagement Policy Notice and Overview - The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District values the input of our families and educational partners. Each year, the district engages families, and specifically those involved in our Title I schools to gather feedback on their parent involvement experiences. This input is vital in shaping our Parent and Family Engagement Policy and the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP). Learn more about MPUSD's parent and family engagement policy and administrative regulation  here . Parent/Guardian Drug Education Awareness Night  - MPUSD's Monterey learning community schools are hosting a parent/guardian drug education awareness night on September 10, 2024, at 6 p.m. at Monte Vista TK-8 School in Monterey. This event is open to all and features a panel of experts and stories from families affected by drugs. Don’t miss this important opportunity to learn and engage! Partnered with Prescribe Safe & Montage Health. Stay tuned for similar events in Marina and Seaside! Learn more . Calling All Champions of Culture & Language -  At MPUSD, we believe in the power of culturally and linguistically relevant education for our English learners—and we need YOU to help make it happen. Join our committee of passionate parents and guardians on September 25, 2024, from  6 - 7:30 p.m. at the Dual Language Academy of the Monterey Peninsula, located at 1650 Sonoma Avenue in Seaside, and be a part of shaping the future for our multilingual students. Get the scoop on what our DELAC (District English Learner Advisory Committee) is all about, dive into student data, and learn about MPUSD's exciting policies. It’s more than a meeting; it’s your chance to make a difference! Don’t miss out—your voice matters. Information of Interest Bond Dollars at Work  - Bimonthly we regularly publish Bond Dollars at Work   highlighting our school bond facilities projects. Did you know that in recent years we have completed more than 30 major facilities projects? Information on each project may be found on our website . Samples of the project fact sheets are below. NOTE: Some projects are still ongoing whereas others we are in the process of taking final project photos and will update these fact sheets as more information becomes available. Monterey County Pops! Orchestra on Labor Day - Looking for something to do this Labor Day? Check out the Monterey County Pops! Orchestra featuring Brenda Thomas, the Monterey Peninsula Gospel Community Choir, and the Eliodoro Vallecillo 4to Prestigio Mexican Regional Band. Hot Off the Reel Why MPUSD - In honor Attendance Awareness Month in September, we highlight Marina High School Attendance Clerk Claudia Ramirez in Why I Work Where I Work .  Read about Claudia's work  here and take two minutes to learn about her role at Marina High and how she supports students and families. Enjoy what you see? Subscribe or visit  MPUSD's YouTube  channel, where all videos are housed. Board of Education Board of Education - The Board of Education met this past week. If you missed the meetings and want to learn what actions the Board took check out our Board Highlights . The next meeting is on September 10, 2024, in open session at approximately 6:30 p.m. and the agenda is available here . The September meeting is at a special location at Monterey High School located at 101 Herrmann Drive in Monterey or you can join via  Zoom .  Reminders: Information Previously Published Worthy of Mention FREE Parent Symposium and Resource Fair - Our partner, the Monterey County Office of Education, in coordination with several community organizations and educational institutions, will host a FREE Parent Symposium and Resource Fair on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at Hartnell College in Salinas from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. All parents are invited. The event is FREE of charge, including breakfast and lunch, and childcare will be available.  Register today ! Join the MPUSD Team - Are you interested in a rewarding career with the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District? We’re hosting a job fair to fill various classified (non-teaching) positions across the district. Come explore the opportunities to make a difference in our community. Walk-ins are welcome, but pre-registration is preferred.  Register today . We look forward to meeting you! 📅  Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024 🕘  Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. 📍  Location: District Services Center, 540 Canyon Del Rey, Del Rey Oaks MPUSD Offers Short-Term Independent Study -  Planning to be absent for 1 to up to 15 days? We've got you covered! Our  short-term independent study program  is perfect for students who need to miss school. Just give us advance notice, and we’ll help keep your student on track. Stay connected with your learning, even when you’re away!  Upcoming Events Most  events  are linked to  MPUSD's website  to receive more information. You may also access the district's school year calendar  here . 9.2     Labor Day | No school 9.3      Monterey Child Development Center Back to School Night 9.4      Dual Language Academy of the Monterey Peninsula Back to School Night 9 .5      Central Coast High School Back to School Night 9 .5      Seaside Child Development Center Back to School Night 9.9    Crumpton Elementary School Back to School Night 9.10     Board of Education Meeting | Monterey High School (Special Location Change) 9.12   Marina Child Development Center Back to School Night 9.17   Marina High School Back to School Night 9.24     Board of Education Meeting | District Services Center 9.25   District English Learner Advisory Committee 9.26   MPUSD Local Control Accountability Plan Committee 9.26  Monterey Adult School and Adult Transitions Program Back to School Night

    Saturday, Aug 31 2024

  • MPUSD eNews | August 27

    The MPUSD eNews is the weekly internal newsletter for MPUSD all staff. Board of Education Board of Education - The Board of Education typically meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. The Board meets this evening on August 27, 2024, in open session at approximately 6:30 p.m. and the agenda is available here . You may attend the meeting in person at the District Services Center located at 540 Canyon Del Rey in Del Rey Oaks or via  Zoom .  Of Interest to Staff Free Educator Opportunity - Participate in the Monterey Bay Aquarium's  Climate Action Project Summit , a three-event summit for educators to empower students in creating meaningful change in their communities through climate action. Who: Open to 3rd-12th grade educators of all subjects. When: Kickoff Event: October 18-19, 2024 (includes an optional overnight stay at the Aquarium). Mid-Year Event: February 22, 2025. Final Project Symposium: May 17, 2025. Application: The CAPS application closes September 16, 2024. Notifications in late September. Cost: Free, with a stipend for participants who complete the program by May 2025. Girls in Aviation Day - Our partner Joby Aviation is hosting a Girls in Aviation Day on September 21, 2024, from 10 am to 1 pm at the Marina Municipal Airport located at 761 Neeson Road in Marina for girls ages 8 to 18 years old along with a parent/guardian. This 10th annual event is a free family-friendly event for girls interested in learning more about aviation, aerospace, and STEM. Learn more and  register today .  MPUSD Employee Resources - Have you ever wondered where to find frequently asked for employee resources on the website? The Human Resources department has combined them onto a landing page titled  MPUSD Employee Resources . We recently added directories by department, school site directories, and District Office phone list to this website landing page. Missing something? Let us know and we’ll add it. Monterey County Pop! Orchestra - Looking for something to do this Labor Day? Check out the  Monterey County Pops! Orchestra on Monday, September 2, 2024, at City Hall in Seaside featuring Brenda Thomas, the Monterey Peninsula Gospel Community Choir, and the Eliodoro Vallecillo 4to Prestigio Mexican Regional Band FREE Parent Symposium and Resource Fair - Our partner, the Monterey County Office of Education, in coordination with several community organizations and educational institutions, will host a FREE Parent Symposium and Resource Fair on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at Hartnell College in Salinas from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. All parents are invited - share this with your families. The event is FREE of charge, including breakfast and lunch, and childcare will be available.  Register today ! Middle and High School Teachers -   Monterey Jazz is excited to announce audition opportunities to join their remarkable Regional All-Star ensembles in the 2024-2025 school year! Middle school and high school musicians currently enrolled in a music ensemble at their school are encouraged to apply. The All-Star members will enjoy performance opportunities at various venues including Monterey Jazz Festival, San Jose Jazz Summer Fest, Forest Theater, Folktale Winery, and Sunset Center to name a few. The deadline for application and video submission is 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, October 13, 2024. Please see the  audition criteria . Please contact Claire Kim-Shin, Director of Education at claire@montereyjazz.org if you have any questions. The application process does NOT require any fees! Applicants must submit the application form AND audition videos to be considered. MJF Regional All Star Band Application Form MJF Regional All Star Vocal Ensemble Application Form MJF Regional All Star Middle School Combo Application Form   Districtwide News September MPUSD-Branded Graphics - September is a busy month with various recognition days, weeks, and months. The Communications department creates MPUSD-branded graphics highlighting these events and typically provides it to school leaders for promotion in their weekly updates to families. We thought teachers might also find it of use in their communications with families. September art includes: Labor Day (September 2), Arts in Education Week (September 8-14), Patriot Day (September 11), Native American Day (September 27), National Literacy Month, Attendance Awareness Month, Suicide Prevention Awareness Week/Month, and National Hispanic Heritage Day. Please feel free to use this art as you see fit. All months are housed in  this folder and the team will continue to add art each month. MPUSD Classified Job Fair - Pssst ... pass it on! The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District is hosting a job fair to fill various classified (non-teaching) positions across the district. Share this information with family and friends so they can explore the opportunities to make a difference in our community. Tell them to note your name as a referral during the registration process and your name will be entered to win a gift card. Participants can  register here .  📅  Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024 🕘  Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. 📍  Location: District Services Center, 540 Canyon Del Rey, Del Rey Oaks Bond Dollars at Work   - Bimonthly we regularly publish Bond Dollars at Work   highlighting our school bond facilities projects. Did you know that in recent years we have completed numerous major facilities projects? Information on each project may be found on our  website . NOTE: Some projects are still ongoing where as others we are in the process of taking final project photos. MPUSD Offers Short-Term Independent Study  -  If you know of students in your class who plan to be absent for 1 to up to 15 days? We've got them covered! MPUSD's short-term independent study program is perfect for students who need to miss school. Be sure to communicate this to families so we can help students stay on track.  Cut to the Campus   We always welcome news about your school site or department for Cut to the Campus. Please share information by emailing mmcfadden@mpusd.net or replying to this ParentSquare post. MPUSD Leadership Academy took to the road last week and held their first TK-6 academy of principals at JC Crumpton Elementary School. The focus during this academy was foundational literacy with instructional rounds of checking out the work in classrooms. A huge shoutout to Crumpton teachers for their dedication to fostering literacy through exceptional instructional practices and innovative curriculum use. Your commitment to ensuring every student becomes a confident reader and writer is truly inspiring! The next TK-6 Leadership Academy will be held at Marshall Elementary School with a focus on early learning in September followed by all TK-12 leaders at  Monterey High School in October. This is a wonderful opportunity to calibrate the learning and glean best practices from our peers. Monterey High School has officially opened the highly anticipated Sandwich Shack, a new dining option designed to offer students a modern, college-style food court experience. Although still in its pilot phase, the district hopes the Sandwich Shack will be successful enough to expand to other high schools in the area, including Marina and Seaside high schools. Learn mor e, including a highly watched  fun video reel launched last week. Ord Terrace Elementary School   is officially Blue Zone approved. This recognition highlights the school's dedication to fostering a healthier and happier environment for students and families. Additionally, Ord Terrace is launching its first-ever community cooking class on September 17. This event will offer a wonderful opportunity for students and families to come together and learn how to prepare delicious, nutritious meals. MPUSD Way We love highlighting our staff. Share about a peer or supervisor for us to highlight in future editions throughout the school year. Email information to mmcfadden@mpusd.net or replying to this ParentSquare post. Service mindset - Seaside High School’s new assistant principal recently shouted out the  Human Resources  department appreciating the team's support as she stepped into her new role. The team has been so helpful from the start, and she stated that the onboarding process for a new job can be overwhelming, but this was not the case this time around. Way to go #teamHR. We’re better together -  At the Dual Language Academy of the Monterey Peninsula, the office team has pulled together during low staffing. Mrs. Cano and  Ms. Estigoy have gone above and beyond to support families while Mrs. Aispuro and her substitute Mrs Wilson are both out. Mrs. Cano and Ms. Estigoy are handling everything from registrations, attendance, short term independent study contracts and so much more - and all this among students and parents/guardians coming into the office throughout the day with requests. Powerful teaching and learning - Seaside HIgh School’s Chuck Scorpiniti, Brady Hollis, Olivia Castro, Sadie Brown,  and  Matt Batchelder   have joined forces to create a reading intervention class during Flex period. They have identified students for this intervention using STAR data and plan to use a phonics curriculum to provide this critical support for our emerging readers. As you may know, their work continues to exemplify the district’s  Reading is Key literacy initiative and focus this year. Positive culture and service mindset  - Ord Terrace Elementary School is certainly on it's A-game for positive culture and service mindset. Thank you to  Itzani Nieto for being a warm and welcoming presence for families. Her positive demeanor makes everyone feel safe and comfortable, whether she’s greeting families with a smile or jumping in to support wherever needed. Itzani truly embodies the spirit of the Ord Terrace family. Kudos to OT's incredible STEPS staff members  for creating a loving and welcoming environment every day. The smiles and warm hugs they offer make students excited to come to school and feel truly cared for. And a special shout out to OT's wonderful crossing guard,  Dottie . Her joyful greetings each morning bring such a positive vibe to the start of the day. Her warmth, kindness, and pride for Ord Terrace brighten everyone’s day. Thank you all for making Ord Terrace a place where students and families feel genuinely cared for and welcomed. Why MPUSD Why I Work Where I Work - Last Thursday we highlighted Marshall Elementary School's   Tami Bacon . She loves children and tries to give them the best of herself every day. She also emphasized the importance of arriving to school on time and the critical role attendance plays on student success. Check out Tami's short video reel and read about her on our website . Reminders: Info in Previous Editions Worthy of Repeat CPR/AED Classes - Have you ever wanted to take a CPR/AED course? Do you need to renew your CPR/AED card? An upcoming workshop focused on adult, child, and infant CPR/AED is being offered outside of MPUSD. Classes are $70 per person and come with a certification card valid for two years. To register for classes, please visit our website  www.elevateservice.org . For any questions you have, you can submit via their website or email info@elevateservice.org .  This offering is not sponsored by MPUSD and being promoted in the event employees are interested in a course. Classes are available this fall in Monterey as follows: September 2 (Labor Day ) | 9 - 11 a.m. September 16 | 5:30 p.m. October 7 | 5:30 p.m. October 21 | 5:30 p.m. November 7 | 5:30 p.m. November 25 | 5:30 p.m. December 2 | 5:30 p.m. December 16 | 5:30 p.m.

    Tuesday, Aug 27 2024

  • MPUSD News: Community Updates | August 24

    Weekly communication from the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District. Breaking News MPUSD Offers Short-Term Independent Study -  Planning to be absent for 1 to up to 15 days? We've got you covered! Our  short-term independent study program is perfect for students who need to miss school. Just give us advance notice, and we’ll help keep your student on track. Stay connected with your learning, even when you’re away!  FREE Parent Symposium and Resource Fair - Our partner, the Monterey County Office of Education, in coordination with several community organizations and educational institutions, will host a FREE Parent Symposium and Resource Fair on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at Hartnell College in Salinas from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. All parents are invited. The event is FREE of charge, including breakfast and lunch, and childcare will be available.  Register today ! Information of Interest Join the MPUSD Team - Are you interested in a rewarding career with the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District? We’re hosting a job fair to fill various classified (non-teaching) positions across the district. Come explore the opportunities to make a difference in our community. Walk-ins are welcome, but pre-registration is preferred.  Register today . We look forward to meeting you! 📅  Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024 🕘  Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. 📍  Location: District Services Center, 540 Canyon Del Rey, Del Rey Oaks MPUSD Gets First EV Bus - MPUSD is leading the way in sustainable student transportation with over $3.3 million in grants for zero-emission electric school buses and infrastructure. The first bus is here, driving us closer to a greener future! Learn more at  https://the.mpusd.net/evbus . Help Your Child Succeed in School - School success goes hand in hand with good attendance! Every day is important. Many MPUSD students miss 10 percent of the school year - about 18 days a year or just two days every month. Too many absences, even in the early grades, can cause students to fall behind in school. We are here to help support you and your family. Please let us know what we can do by reaching out to your teacher, school administration, community liaison or staff member.  Learn more .   Hot Off the Reel Why I Work Where I Work - This week we highlight Marshall Elementary School's  attendance clerk Tami Bacon  in Why MPUSD. Read about Tami  here or take a moment to watch why she loves what she does and where she works below. She talks about the critical aspect that attendance has on student success.                                   Monterey High School Sandwich Shack - Monterey High School has officially opened the highly anticipated Sandwich Shack, a new dining option designed to offer students a modern, college-style food court experience. The idea for the Sandwich Shack began several years ago when district officials sought to expand food options on campus, offering students a variety of meals that align more closely with the dining experiences they might encounter in college or the workforce. Learn more in MPUSD's Newsroom .  This initiative is part of the school's broader vision to rethink nutrition services and enhance student engagement.                                   Enjoy what you see? Subscribe or visit  MPUSD's YouTube  channel, where all videos are housed. Board of Education Board of Education - The Board of Education typically meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. The next meeting is on August 27, 2024, in open session at approximately 6:30 p.m. and the agenda is available here . You may attend the meeting in person at the District Services Center located at 540 Canyon Del Rey in Del Rey Oaks or via  Zoom .  Reminders: Information Previously Published Worthy of Mention Free Money for College - As a California public school student, your child may be eligible to receive $500 to $1,500 for use towards their future education expenses. The California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS), funded by the State of California, provides eligible students with funds to promote a college going culture. Checking eligibility and claiming money is easy. All you need is your child’s 10-digit Statewide Student Identifier (SSID), which can be found in MPUSD's ParentVue (where you enrolled or confirmed your child's online registration this year) in a tab named "Student Info." See example on MPUSD's website . For more information and to check your eligibility, visit  CalKIDS.org . Free Food for Families - The CalFresh program supplements the food budget of low-income households to meet their nutritional needs. Individuals and families who receive CalFresh benefits can buy food at a variety of stores, farmer's markets, or other authorized places using an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. The amount of CalFresh benefits a family receives is based on household size, family income, and other resources. Learn more about  CalFresh and if your family qualifies. Elementary, TK-8, and Middle School Back-to-School Connections -  Back-to-School Connections conferences return August 26 - September 6, 2024, for elementary, TK-8, and middle school families. These Back-to-School Connections also serve as an opportunity to relay relevant and pertinent information to a child's teacher regarding social emotional well-being or any concerns parents, guardians, and caregivers may have behaviorally. During the two-week connection conference period, release time for elementary and TK-8 schools will be 12:50 p.m. and for middle schools will be 1:30 p.m. Free Produce Boxes - Join our community partner Everyone's Harvest on Thursday evenings at the Seaside Farmers Market located at Laguna Grande Park at 1259 Canyon Del Rey Blvd. in Seaside, and grab a free box of produce every Thursday evening through October. Upcoming Events Most  events  are linked to  MPUSD's website  to receive more information. You may also access the district's school year calendar  here . 8.26   Ord Terrace Elementary School Back to School Night 8.26   Del Rey Woods Elementary School Back to School Night 8.26   Marshall Elementary School Back to School Night 8.27   Board of Education Meeting | District Services Center 8.28  Los Arboles Middle School Back to School Night 8.29  Monterey High School Back to School Night

    Saturday, Aug 24 2024

  • MPUSD eNews | August 20

    The MPUSD eNews is the weekly internal newsletter for MPUSD all staff. Board of Education Board Policy Committee - The Board Policy Committee is a subset of the Board of Education. The committee meets on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. at the District Services Center located at 540 Canyon Del Rey in Del Rey Oaks. The meeting can be attended in person or via Zoom . The agenda may be found  here . Of Interest to Staff Seeking Roommate  - My name is Kayla, and I am a speech language pathologist with the district. My friend and I are looking for a third roommate for the place we're moving into. It's walking distance from NPS, and MPC, biking distance from DLI, and a few blocks from the beach in Monterey. 3BR/2BA. We are a fun, kind, outdoorsy, bookish, deep-talking, social, and a community-minded home. We have two cats (we can't accept any more pets), we're working professionals (who love adequate sleep - welcome to your 30s), and we're always super down for getting out, but we also love our introvert time too (together or apart). All ages welcome. The cost is $1,470 plus utilities. Move in is September 7. Please reach out if you or anyone you know of might be interested. Check out the  flyer and QR code to complete interest form or text or call Kayla at 619-432-5306 for more details.  2024-2025 Uniform Complaint Procedures (UCP) Annual Notice and Title IX: Notice of Nondiscrimination - The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District recently share the 2024-2025 Uniform Complaint Procedures (UCP) Annual Notice and Title IX: Notice of Nondiscrimination. MPUSD annually notifies its students, employees, parents or guardians of its students, the district advisory committee, school advisory committees, appropriate private school officials, and other interested parties of the Uniform Complaint Procedures (UCP) process and Notice of Nondiscrimination. In case you missed this direct message in ParentSquare, the UCP annual notice and Title IX updates may be found on the district's website at www.mpusd.net/annualucpnotice/ and  www.mpusd.net/titleix/ . MPC and CSUMB Start Dates  - As you may have experienced, traffic has become increasingly heavy on our highways and streets. Despite Car Week ending last week, this week Monterey Peninsula College resumed classes on August 19, 2024, and California State University begins fall semester on August 26, 2024. Stay patient and safe out there. Districtwide News Family Workshops  -  MPUSD offers various parenting and family support workshops throughout the school year. If you have a child or care for one, we have a program for you. Teachers, please also share with your families. These programs give you the opportunity to learn and collaborate with other parents to support your child at home and at school. Classes include English and Spanish versions of Opening Doors, Face & Heart, PIQE: Social Emotional Learning, Child’s 1st, PIQE: Family Bridge to College, and Bullying Prevention. Learn more about our fall 2024 and spring 2025 offerings and register ( English or Spanish ) today. English video or  Spanish video highlights the program. MPUSD’s Commitment to Environmental Stewardship - MPUSD is excited to announce the receipt of over $3.3 million in grants to fund electric school buses and charging infrastructure, advancing our commitment to sustainability. The first of nine new zero-emission buses was delivered last week, followed by comprehensive training for our drivers and mechanics. Visit our website and take  60 seconds to watch this video reel for more details on this significant step towards cleaner, quieter transportation for our students. Cut to the Campus   We always welcome news about your school site or department for Cut to the Campus. Please share information by emailing mmcfadden@mpusd.net or replying to this ParentSquare post. Marina High   is fostering a dynamic learning environment where scholars are actively engaged in their education. During school administration visits to classrooms, students were observed participating enthusiastically, forming meaningful connections with their teachers and peers, and exploring class content through various methods. The Early College and Career school culture is clearly thriving and continues to evolve in a positive direction. Marshall Elementary School  6th graders took a deep dive into learning last week. Ms. Mumm and Ms. Miller did a wonderful job setting conditions for collaborative learning with embedded literacy growth opportunities across content areas. A focus on reading to learn, written responses, and vocabulary development were apparent across science and social science instruction. Way to go, Mustangs! It was an exciting week last week for Monterey High School as their multi-use field stadium lights were installed. Take 30-seconds to watch  a quick reel on this exciting progress. Monte Vista TK-8 School   proudly shares that last year the school held two school wide art shows, exhibited at the Monterey Airport, unveiled online individual art portfolios through Artsonia, and all students received art instruction every week. This year, MVTK8 will host two school wide art shows, participate in one community art exhibit, connect additional families to Artsonia, and conduct TK-1st grade art classes in the Art Room/Makerspace. Our earliest learners at the  Seaside Child Development Center  are focusing on the 'First 6 Weeks of School' from Creative Curriculum. This program helps children build a strong foundation for both academic and social success by creating a classroom environment where they feel safe, valued, and ready to learn. During this time, our teachers are introducing key routines and building essential relationships with students. Seaside High School  showcased its positive school culture with expectation assemblies, a successful Back to School Night, and a vibrant Club Fair last week. These events helped students and families feel welcomed and engaged. Classroom walkthroughs highlighted a strong focus on academic vocabulary and Grade Level Explanatory Writing (GLEW), with word walls and explicit vocabulary instruction standing out. At  Seaside Middle School , every staff member is committed to inciting excellence and inspiring meaningful change. School administration has observed teachers diving straight into planning and data analysis, driving learning forward to ensure that Eagle scholars are fully prepared to  soar into high school. With a relentless focus on strong first instruction, SMS' approach emphasizes response to intervention, timely data, effective feedback, and retake opportunities throughout the year, ensuring every student has the support they need to succeed. MPUSD Way We love highlighting our staff. Share about a peer or supervisor for us to highlight in future editions throughout the school year. Email information to mmcfadden@mpusd.net or replying to this ParentSquare post. We’re better together - Shout out to the  La Mesa School   kindergarten team! Their hard work and collaboration during the meet and greet and connection conferences with parents and guardians ensured every kindergarten student and family felt welcomed. Thanks to the team’s efforts, the school was able to create four balanced and equitable classes during the first two-week soft opening of kindergarten. Well done, Shark team. Every person matters and each day counts - Kudos to the short-term Independent Studies team at  La Mesa School . Last year, they helped support families by creating 206 Independent Study contracts, recovering over 1,000 student school days. This year, after just six days of school, the team has already created 17 contracts, helping to recover 134 school days.  Positive Culture - The administration at Los Arboles Middle School   gave shoutouts and congratulated   Ms. Rodriguez   and   Ms. Hendricks   for completing their first week and a half of their first year teaching. They also complimented Ms. Sujero   and  Ms. D’Souza for their many years of teaching experience in the Philippines, and integrating their knowledge and skills into LAMS and the educational systems! Positive Culture  - Ord Terrace Elementary School is buzzing with positive energy and dedication as the new school year kicks off. Principal Joe Sampson and Assistant Principal Chanelle Cecchi  have gone above and beyond by creating a data-driven and thoughtful literacy professional development program. Their efforts have provided valuable time for teams to collaborate around this crucial data, fostering growth and understanding. Special thanks go to Reggie and Isaac for their tireless work in preparing the campus. The site looks beautiful, and their commitment has made a significant impact in creating a welcoming environment for everyone. A huge round of applause for  Bobbee and  Jocelyn , who have brought a fresh wave of enthusiasm to the school. Their new-teacher energy is not only inspiring students but also spreading a contagious excitement for teaching throughout the school. Their passion is truly lighting up Ord Terrace! Why MPUSD Why I Work Where I Work - We're excited to launch our first Why MPUSD of the new school year featuring Olson Elementary Office Support Clerk Donna Manuel. She shares why attendance is so important and how some families need extra support. Read about Donna and her work here and take a minute to  watch her testimonial . Reminders: Info in Previous Editions Worthy of Repeat CPR/AED Classes - Have you ever wanted to take a CPR/AED course? Do you need to renew your CPR/AED card? An upcoming workshop focused on adult, child, and infant CPR/AED is being offered outside of MPUSD. Classes are $70 per person and come with a certification card valid for two years. To register for classes, please visit our website  www.elevateservice.org . For any questions you have, you can submit via their website or email info@elevateservice.org .  This offering is not sponsored by MPUSD and being promoted in the event employees are interested in a course. Classes are available this fall in Monterey as follows: September 2 (Labor Day ) | 9 - 11 a.m. September 16 | 5:30 p.m. October 7 | 5:30 p.m. October 21 | 5:30 p.m. November 7 | 5:30 p.m. November 25 | 5:30 p.m. December 2 | 5:30 p.m. December 16 | 5:30 p.m.

    Tuesday, Aug 20 2024