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  • November Newsletter

    Community Newsletter A welcoming community that INSPIRES possibilities, CONNECTS people and IGNITES learning. November 14, 2025 Superintendent's Message A Season of Gratitude Dear CRPUSD Families and Community, As we enter the holiday season, I want to share heartfelt gratitude for the everyday acts of care we see across our schools: teachers going the extra mile, students looking out for one another, families volunteering time and talent, and community partners showing up when it matters most. Thank you for being the village that surrounds our children. This time of year brings joy for many, and it can be complicated for others. Some in our community may be experiencing grief, financial stress, health challenges, or separation from loved ones. Let’s hold space for every story. Embracing our differences, our traditions, languages, beliefs, and ways of celebrating (or not celebrating) is part of what makes our community strong. A few gentle reminders as we move through the season: Lead with kindness. A smile, a patient word in the pickup line, or a quick check-in with a neighbor can make someone’s day. Practice welcoming. Encourage students to invite others in, learn about different traditions, and use language that is welcoming to all. Notice and support. If a student or family seems to be struggling, please let a trusted staff member know. Our school teams can help connect families to resources. Care for yourselves. Rest, time outdoors, and simple routines can help us all feel steadier. Thank you for the many ways you show up for our students and for one another. May this season bring moments of gratitude, connection, and peace to you and those you love. With appreciation, Maite Iturri, Ed.D. Superintendent Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District   What our school community is thankful for this season!   Community Coalition Toy Drive We are calling on our CRPUSD community to spread holiday cheer to our students in need this season. If you are able to provide an unwrapped gift for a student ages 4-18, please drop it by the District Office (7165 Burton Ave) from now until December 15th. We are so grateful for our generous community. Food Access Dear Community, Food insecurity affects many neighbors, even if we don’t always see it. With many neighbors about to lose SNAP benefits and local food banks struggling to meet the demand, your help is more important than ever. Access to healthy food supports student well-being, learning, and dignity. If you need help, please see below for local resources.  Ways to Help (Mutual Aid) Give time (volunteer at distributions), goods (shelf-stable items, diapers, toiletries), or funds (small monthly gifts sustain pantries year-round). Share information with neighbors, offer rides, or help with translation/forms. If your family needs support or you want to help, contact your school office.  If you need help (or can offer it), here are local resources: Hot Meals To Go at COTS in Petaluma COTS has hot to-go meals for lunch and dinner, seven days a week, available to any Sonoma County resident, no questions asked. Anyone can visit  900 Hopper Street, seven days a week, to grab hot, pre-packed to-go meals for lunch or dinner. Residents may grab enough to-go meals for their family. Each meal includes a protein, a carbohydrate side, a fruit salad, and a green salad. Lunch: Pick up between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. daily Dinner: Pick up between 5-6 p.m. daily To-go meals are available right outside the lobby door during the hours posted above. Questions? Email info@cots.org for a same-day response. Text 707-353-3882 food/comida  If you, or people you care about, need food, use 707-353-3882 to text or send via WhatsApp the word FOOD or COMIDA and connect with food resources in your zip code, groceries, meals, and more. Living Room in Santa Rosa on North Dutton Our food program partners with local organizations to provide over 100 daily meals, pantry bags with fresh produce, and educational meal kits to support food-insecure families and low-income seniors. We are a collaborative community supporting women and their children during times of housing insecurity and urgent need.  NOAH Food Pantry  Here at NOAH - Neighbors Organized Against Hunger, we are driven to help our community and make a change. We are a food pantry in Rohnert Park, located next to Cross and Crown Lutheran Church, across from RCHS. St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry in Santa Rosa and Cotati Call St. Vincent de Paul to set up an appointment. We're open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday!! Food hotline: Call 707-584-1579 between 8:30 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Additional Resources  Visit REFB’s Get Food Food assistance programs in Sonoma County, visit the Open Doors website under “Food Assistance” Petaluma Bounty offers a comprehensive list of food access options. Celebrations CRPUSD Students, staff, and families celebrate Halloween.   Dia de los Muertos Remembering our loved ones. Thank you to Ballet Folklorico Quetzalen! This performance took place on October 19, 2025, at Rancho Cotate High School in honor of Día de los Muertos/Day of the Dead. Photo Credit: Victor Ferrer   Opportunities and Information Career Technical Education (CTE) at Rancho and THS Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways connect classroom learning to real careers, giving students purpose, skills, and a clear line of sight to college and the workforce. Through sequenced courses, industry-aligned curriculum, dual enrollment, and work-based learning (internships, job shadowing, capstones), CTE pathways build both technical skills and the durable skills employers value: communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and professionalism. They increase engagement and graduation, open doors to industry certifications and living-wage careers, and provide hands-on, relevant learning for every student, including those who will pursue two- and four-year degrees, apprenticeships, or immediate employment.   Percentage of Schools Participation - 10/27 update We are happy to share that we reached 92% participation in this year’s Education Benefit Campaign - a five-point increase over last year’s already successful effort! As with last year, we hope this strong participation will bring additional funding into the district and help ease some of the pressure on our tight budget. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this four-month campaign. This is a 4-year high for CRPUSD! Thank you, Matt Marshall Director of Student Services   Events School Tours This is a great opportunity to see our schools and all the AMAZING programs we have in CRPUSD!   Education Foundation of Cotati & Rohnert Park Save the Date! Save the Date Reminders Mental Health Workshops Great opportunities are being offered by the Sonoma County Office of Education (SCOE). Communication Methods We are working to improve our communication systems to be effective and timely. The CRPUSD communication team worked on a document to outline our commitment to you and to offer some guidelines for social media posts and ParentSquare options. Please click on the links to view the documents. Communication Resources Social Media Guidelines Communication Expectations for Families Parent Square Usage Family video for claiming account: Eng. / Span. Family video for settings change: Eng. / Span. Videos and info can also be found at: Family Tech Resources  Join the CRPUSD Team! "For our own success to be real, it must contribute to the success of others." ~ Eleanor Roosevelt Looking for a meaningful career? CRPUSD offers exciting opportunities to make a daily impact on students’ lives. Join our supportive community and help inspire the future—one student at a time! Link to EdJoin 6/7th Girls Volleyball Coach- Tech Middle School 8th Grade Girls Volleyball Coach - Tech Middle School Administrative Secretary for Expanded Learning Cafeteria Assistant Monte Vista Community Liaison at Rancho Cotate High School Community Liaison at Thomas Page Academy Ed Specialist-District Wide (Home Hospital Instruction) EL Education Assistant at Rancho Cotate Frosh Baseball Coach - Rancho Cotate High School JV Softball Coach - Rancho Cotate High School Noon Duty at Technology Middle School Noon Duty at Thomas Page Academy Noon Duty at University Elementary of La Fiesta Paraprofessional at Evergreen Elementary School Paraprofessional at Lawrence Jones Middle School Paraprofessional at Marguerite Hahn Elementary School Paraprofessional at Monte Vista Paraprofessional El Colegio PE Teacher at Evergreen Elementary Physics/ Biology Teacher at Rancho Cotate High School SDC Paraprofessional at Marguerite Hahn Elementary School Special Day Class Education Specialist at John Reed Elementary School Student Support Advisor at Thomas Page Academy- Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District Varsity Tennis Coach - Technology High School Calendar Mark your calendars! We have lots of exciting events coming up! All school events are available to you on this site. LINK Contact Us Contact info Please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns. We are here to assist. 707-792-4722 rochelle_gregori@crpusd.org www.crpusd.org

    Friday, Nov 14 2025

  • Early Release next week

    Dear Parents & Guardians, Next week is Early Release Week for Parent–Teacher Conferences . You should have received an appointment with your child's teacher. Please let your school office know if you need an appointment or have questions. Dismissal is at 12:35 pm. Thank you for partnering with us to support your student’s progress. 

    Thursday, Oct 30 2025

  • Food Access in Rohnert Park and Sonoma County

    Dear Community, Food insecurity affects many neighbors, even if we don’t always see it. With many neighbors about to lose SNAP benefits and local food banks struggling to meet the demand, your help is more important than ever.  Access to healthy food supports student well-being, learning, and dignity.  If you need help, please see below for local resources.  Ways to Help (Mutual Aid) Give time (volunteer at distributions), goods (shelf-stable items, diapers, toiletries), or funds (small monthly gifts sustain pantries year-round). Share information with neighbors, offer rides, or help with translation/forms. If your family needs support or you want to help, contact your school office.  If you need help (or can offer it), here are local resources: Hot Meals To Go at COTS in Petaluma COTS  has hot to-go meals for lunch and dinner, seven days a week, available to any Sonoma County resident, no questions asked. With CalFresh delays looming, COTS is prepared for increased need. Anyone can visit  900 Hopper Street, seven days a week, to grab hot, pre-packed to-go meals for lunch or dinner. Residents may grab enough to-go meals for their family. Each meal includes a protein, a carbohydrate side, a fruit salad, and a green salad. Lunch: Pick up between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. daily Dinner: Pick up between 5-6 p.m. daily To-go meals are available right outside the lobby door during the hours posted above. Questions? Email  info@cots.org  for a same-day response. Text 707-353-3882 food/comida  If you, or people you care about, need food, use 707-353-3882 to text or send via WhatsApp the word FOOD or COMIDA and connect with food resources in your zip code, groceries, meals, and more. Living Room in Santa Rosa on North Dutton Our food program partners with local organizations to provide over 100 daily meals, pantry bags with fresh produce, and educational meal kits to support food-insecure families and low-income seniors. We are a collaborative community supporting women and their children during times of housing insecurity and urgent need.  https://thelivingroomsc.org/   NOAH Food Pantry  Here at NOAH - Neighbors Organized Against Hunger, we are driven to help our community and make a change. We are here to make a difference in people's lives by providing healthy food for those who need it. We are a food pantry in Rohnert Park, located next to Cross and Crown Lutheran Church, across from Rancho Cotate High.  https://www.noahfoodpantry.org St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry in Santa Rosa and Cotati Call St. Vincent de Paul to set up an appointment. We're open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday!! Lots of good food is bagged for you personally.  Food hotline: Call 707-584-1579 between 8:30 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Additional Resources  • Visit REFB’s Get Food:  https://getfood.refb.org/getfood.html • For food assistance programs in Sonoma County, visit the Open Doors website under “Food Assistance”:  https://opendoorssc.com/ With appreciation, Maite Iturri, Ed.D. Superintendent

    Wednesday, Oct 29 2025

  • October Newsletter

    Community Newsletter A welcoming community that INSPIRES possibilities, CONNECTS people and IGNITES learning. October 10, 2025 Photo Credit: Rancho Cotate Seniors Kevin Chavez Adrian Carreno Carreno Thank you to our talented Band students and teachers at LJMS. Superintendent's Message Why Leadership Matters Leadership matters most not during moments of ease but in times of uncertainty, fear, and transformation. When communities face challenges, be they fiscal, social, or emotional, they need not just direction but also vision, courage, and humanity. Authentic leadership steadies the course, models integrity, and invites others to share a purpose. Roland Barth reminds us that "the nature of relationships among the adults in a school has a greater influence on the character and quality of that school and on student accomplishment than anything else." In times of strain, this becomes even more true. Leaders who invest in relationships among staff, with families, and within the broader community build the trust and cohesion necessary to weather adversity. Peter Senge, in The Fifth Discipline, emphasizes systems thinking, noting that "today’s problems come from yesterday’s solutions." Effective leaders resist reactive quick fixes; they seek to understand root causes and engage others in co-creating sustainable solutions. Brené Brown offers a powerful perspective on vulnerability and courage: "Daring leaders who live into their values are never silent about hard things." In hard times, people don’t need false cheer; they need honesty, humility, and a leader willing to speak the truth with compassion. Leadership is not about being fearless; it’s about being brave enough to show up, even when the path feels uncertain. Margaret Wheatley echoes this idea, writing: "In organizations, real power and energy are generated through relationships. The patterns of relationships and the capacities to form them are more important than tasks, functions, roles, and positions." When structures bend under pressure, it’s the human-to-human connection that holds the system together. Leaders who prioritize belonging and interdependence foster resilience and hope. Leadership is not just a position; it’s a daily choice to center people, purpose, and possibility. Especially in hard times, leadership involves creating conditions that allow others to flourish, not despite the hardship, but because of how we choose to navigate it together. The best leaders champion students and their needs in daily interactions and decisions that shape lives. Our certificated (teachers, administrators, nurses, psychologists, etc), classified (paraprofessionals, instructional assistants, administrators, business and technology services, office staff, maintenance, etc.), students, parents, and the board of trustees leaders demonstrate vulnerable, courageous, innovative, and trustworthy leadership every day. Leaders are responsible for their actions, support others, and show up when the road is bumpy. Our leaders lead with an attitude of how can we make this better for everyone, and hold each other to a high standard. I celebrate all our leaders and am very grateful to all of them who continue to show every day, no matter the road conditions. In partnership, Maite Iturri, Ed.D.   Message in English Mesnsaje en Espanol   GREAT SHAKE OUT Dear CRPUSD Families, On Thursday, October 16, all schools will participate in the Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill, a statewide event that encourages schools and organizations to practice how to protect themselves during an earthquake. Safety is a top priority in the Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District, and participating in this annual drill helps ensure that our students and staff are prepared in the event of a real emergency. Additionally, we will have a Transitional Kindergarten and Kindergarten student release practice at two sites. Purpose of the Drill The Great ShakeOut is more than a drop-cover-hold exercise it is part of our broader commitment to emergency preparedness. The drill helps us: Practice safe, calm, and quick responses to an earthquake scenario Test school site evacuation procedures Strengthen coordination between school staff, emergency responders, and the broader community Provide students with confidence and a sense of safety through practiced routines Special Student Release Practice at Two Schools This year, as part of expanding our emergency preparedness, we will also conduct a Transitional Kindergarten and Kindergarten student release practice at two sites: Thomas Page Academy (TPA) University Elementary at La Fiesta (UELF) During this component of the drill, students will be released to families following specific procedures that simulate emergency reunification. If your child attends one of these schools, your principal will provide additional details about how the student release will work, what to expect, and how you can participate. This is a practice drill; only students will not be at risk, and no actual emergency has occurred. In future years, we will expand this student release practice to include other schools across the district. Collaboration with Community Partners We are excited to work alongside our dedicated community partners as we continue to strengthen our shared commitment to the safety and well-being of our students and families. Collaborating across organizations not only enhances our emergency preparedness but also builds trust, consistency, and effective communication between schools, first responders, city agencies, and support networks. These partnerships are essential to creating a unified and coordinated response during emergencies, reflecting our collective responsibility to care for and protect the children and communities we all serve. Together, we are building a culture of readiness, resilience, and support. We are grateful to be working alongside several of our local safety and emergency partners in preparing for and participating in this drill, including Rohnert Park Public Safety, Cotati Police, Sonoma State University, the City of Cotati, the City of Rohnert Park, and North Bay Security. Their involvement strengthens our ability to respond effectively and ensure a coordinated approach to student safety. Celebrations Homecoming Football and Judges Thank you to our HOCO judges! Dan and Vera Blanquie, Trustee Wing, Trustee Johnson, and Rochelle Gregori! Go Rancho Cougars!   Celebrate An article in Sonoma Magazine has great ideas for families who wish to get out and celebrate right here in our beautiful county. Additional resources to explore, including the National Museum of the American Latino, Common Sense Education, LACOE, and ADL. We invite you to explore these excellent resources to honor our Hispanic and Latino community and their significant contributions to American society: National Hispanic Heritage Month: Important Figures — An interactive slide presentation to learn about influential figures throughout the month. Smithsonian Museum Resource — A comprehensive guide to celebrate the achievements and histories of the Latinx/Hispanic community. National Hispanic Heritage Month Reading Room — A virtual library featuring family-friendly read-aloud videos. Special offerings from our Sonoma County Library   No Classes on October 13, 2025   Opportunities and Information Percentage of Schools Participation - 10/1 update Our families are doing great, completing the Educational Benefits forms on PowerSchool! Keep it going.   Conference Week We are excited to announce a change in our elementary parent and teacher conference approach. This year, we have an early dismissal at the elementary schools from November 3rd to 7th for parents/guardians to conference with their child's teacher. Richard Crane conference week is October 20-24. Please be on the lookout for more information from your child's school. Events   Social Media Education for Parents/Guardians     Education Foundation of Cotati & Rohnert Park We are part of a great team We are THE EDUCATION FOUNDATION OF COTATI AND ROHNERT PARK. Our goal is to raise much-needed funds for EVERY SCHOOL in the CRPUSD! Meet your board members: Executive Director/Past President: Vera Blanquie President, Dan Blanquie Vice President, April Johnson Treasurer, Judy Jones Secretary, Megan Jones Barbara Bagileio Jenn Whitright Teacher Liaison, Teresa Ruffoni The Education Foundation of Cotati and Rohnert Park (EFCRP) will be at the HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL with Dia De Los Muertos Celebration on Saturday, October 25th from 12:00-5:00 Look for the EFCRP booth. We will be selling delicious beverages, soda, and water. Fun for the whole family with live performances, wildlife animals, carnival games, magic show, haunted maze, community altars, and more!!! Come join us for a SPOOKTACULAR time!!! Reminders Mental Health Workshops Great opportunities are being offered by the Sonoma County Office of Education (SCOE). Communication Methods We are working to improve our communication systems to be effective and timely. The CRPUSD communication team worked on a document to outline our commitment to you and to offer some guidelines for social media posts and ParentSquare options. Please click on the links to view the documents. Communication Resources Social Media Guidelines Communication Expectations for Families Parent Square Usage Family video for claiming account: Eng. / Span. Family video for settings change: Eng. / Span. Videos and info can also be found at: Family Tech Resources  Join the CRPUSD Team! "For our own success to be real, it must contribute to the success of others." ~ Eleanor Roosevelt Looking for a meaningful career? CRPUSD offers exciting opportunities to make a daily impact on students’ lives. Join our supportive community and help inspire the future—one student at a time! Link to EdJoin Paraprofessional District Wide Staff Secretary Human Resources Paraprofessional Lawrence Jones Paraprofessional Rancho Cotate Paraprofessional Evergreen Elementary Noon Duty Richard Crane Paraprofessional Technology Middle School Noon Duty Monte Vista Noon Duty Marguertite Hahn Noon Duty Technology Middle School Noon Duty University of La Fiesta Cafeteria Assistant District Wide  Calendar Mark your calendars! We have lots of exciting events coming up! All school events are available to you on this site. LINK Contact Us Contact info Please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns. We are here to assist. 707-792-4722 rochelle_gregori@crpusd.org www.crpusd.org

    Friday, Oct 10 2025

  • September Newsletter

    Community Newsletter A welcoming community that INSPIRES possibilities, CONNECTS people and IGNITES learning. September 17, 2025 Superintendent's Message Bullying: Information & Support for Families Dear CRPUSD Community, At Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District, we are deeply committed to creating safe, inclusive, and supportive school environments where every student feels seen, valued, and protected. As part of that commitment, we want to take a moment to talk about a critical issue that affects school communities across the country, bullying, and what we can do together to prevent and respond to it. What Is Bullying? Bullying is defined as unwanted, aggressive behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance and is pervasive and repeated over time. It can take many forms, including: Physical: hitting, pushing, or damaging someone’s belongings Verbal: name-calling, teasing, threats, or offensive comments Social/Relational: spreading rumors, intentional exclusion, or public embarrassment Cyberbullying: using digital devices to harass, threaten, or spread hurtful content  If Your Child Is Being Bullied or Witnesses Bullying If your child shares that they are being bullied or have witnessed someone else being bullied, please take the following steps: Listen calmly and supportively. Reassure your child that they are not alone and that it is not their fault. Document what happened. Keep records of dates, times, people involved, and descriptions of the behavior. Report the behavior to school staff immediately. All CRPUSD schools have clear procedures in place for investigating reports of bullying. Encourage your child not to retaliate. Instead, help them find safe ways to stand up for themselves or others and seek adult support. Follow up. Stay in communication with your child and school personnel to ensure the situation is addressed and does not continue. Students are also encouraged to report bullying anonymously through school-specific methods, such as a trusted adult, school counselor, or our online reporting system, StopIt.  How CRPUSD Responds Our schools follow a Restorative PBIS approach grounded in education, accountability, and healing. Reports of bullying are taken seriously, investigated promptly, and addressed according to district policies and California Education Code § 48900. We work to support both the student harmed and the student causing harm through appropriate interventions, counseling, and skill-building so that all students can learn in a safe environment. Resources for Families StopBullying.gov – Information for parents, youth, and educators PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center – Resources and toolkits for families California Department of Education We know that bullying prevention takes a whole-community approach. Together with students, families, and staff, we can create a culture of kindness, respect, and accountability. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your school principal or counselor if you have questions, concerns, or would like to talk more about how we can support your child. In partnership, Maite Iturri, Ed.D Superintendent Celebrations Technology High School News Erin Dekleva and her THS science class were highlighted on RadioLab. Below is a link to the student's work. Message from RadioLab to Erin Dekleva Last week we got a lovely note from listener Erin from California: Hi! I’m a huge fan and high school biology teacher. I had students working on a mural in my classroom for a lot of the last school year, and I asked them to incorporate certain elements so I could make it an interactive mural. In preparation for the school year I hung QR codes to link to Radiolab episodes, so kids can choose an interesting looking story and listen at break or lunch. I had the help of two main driving muralists, Verity Priest and Malachi Wickham, so they get 100% of the credit for the beautiful art. I was so lucky to get them on board to work on this long term project for the 2024 - 2025 school year. The mural is also an ongoing work; I plan on having students who are interested keep adding to it next year, so you may notice some of it is unfinished. It does a great job to contribute to an overall classroom atmosphere and environment that makes students really want to be there! I’m going to have them keep building this year :) The QR codes are hanging next to their subjects like ‘Goo and You’ next to the butterfly etc. Thought you would get a kick out of it! Thank you for all that you do! No, thank YOU, Erin! For sharing your classroom and for teaching young people about science. We're always delighted to see the bright and beautiful ways our listeners are making our stories a part of their lives. Click below to see the students work. Radio Lab IntraMURAL Recreation  Community Liaisons 🔹 What Are School Community Liaisons? School Community Liaisons (also called Family Engagement Specialists, Community Outreach Workers, or Parent Liaisons) are staff members hired by school districts to act as a bridge between schools, families, and the community. They often speak multiple languages and ensure access and trust across school populations. They may offer site-based or district-wide support. 🔹 Why Are They Important? Liaisons remove barriers that often prevent families from fully participating in their child’s education, especially in communities impacted by poverty, language barriers, immigration status, or trauma. Their work: Increases family engagement Improves student attendance and outcomes Enhances school climate and trust Strengthens home-school-community partnerships Below is a picture of our amazing Community Liaisons. Idalia Topete - District Liaison Leticia Ontiveros - Hahn and Evergreen Violeta Barosa Romero - Tech Middle School Wendy Lopez Orellana - Univeristy La Fiesta Ana Zuniga - Richard Crane and John Reed Angelica Olmos - Monte Vista Opportunities and Information Mental Health Workshops Great opportunities are being offered by the Sonoma County Office of Education (SCOE). Communication Methods We are working to improve our communication systems to be effective and timely. The CRPUSD communication team worked on a document to outline our commitment to you and to offer some guidelines for social media posts and ParentSquare options. Please click on the links to view the documents. Communication Resources Social Media Guidelines Communication Expectations for Families Parent Square Usage Family video for claiming account: Eng. / Span. Family video for settings change: Eng. / Span. Videos and info can also be found at: Family Tech Resources    Our Community and Immigration We are aware of recent immigration enforcement activity near school communities, and we recognize that this may be causing concern, fear, and anxiety for some of our students and families. These actions can create deep uncertainty, especially for those trying to get to and from school and work, and care for their families. Over the past few months, we have heard from many members of our community, including students, families, teachers, staff, and local organizations, about how these events are affecting their sense of safety and well-being. At CRPUSD, we want to be clear: our schools are places where all students are welcomed, supported, and free from fear or discrimination. A Right to Learn Every child has the right to attend public school and receive an education, regardless of immigration status. This right is protected under Plyler v. Doe (1982) and Assembly Bill 699 (2017), which require California public schools to provide equal access to education and maintain the privacy of student records. We are committed to upholding these rights for every student, every day. Safety, Respect, and Belonging Our schools are places where students should feel valued, respected, and safe. We do not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or fear based on immigration status or any part of a student’s identity. No student should feel targeted, isolated, or unsafe because of who they are. Privacy and Protection CRPUSD does not collect or inquire about immigration status. Our focus is on learning, not labels. Every child deserves to come to school confident that their identity will be respected and their presence welcomed. What Families Can Do Stay informed by reading communication from reliable sources. Keep your emergency contact information up to date at your child’s school. Consider preparing a Care Giver Affidavit  We know these are challenging times for our community. Please know that you are not alone. Our district staff is here to listen, support, and help ensure that all students feel safe, seen, and supported. Together, we will continue to uphold our shared values of safety, and opportunity for every student. CRPUSD is stronger because of the resilience and unity of our community, and every child deserves the chance to thrive.   Percentage of Schools Participation - 9/10 update Our families are doing great, completing the Educational Benefits forms on PowerSchool! Keep it going.   50th Anniversary of IDEA (The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), originally enacted in 1975 as the Education for All Handicapped Children Act, emerged from the civil rights movement to guarantee equal educational access for students with disabilities. Rooted in landmark cases such as Brown v. Board of Education and PARC v. Pennsylvania, IDEA mandates that eligible students receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). Renamed IDEA in 1990, the law expanded to include categories such as autism and traumatic brain injury. Amendments over the years (notably in 1997 and 2004) further strengthened the law by emphasizing parental involvement, transition planning, early intervention, and alignment with general education reforms like standards-based accountability. Despite never fully meeting its funding promise, IDEA remains the cornerstone of special education in the United States—ensuring that students with disabilities have the right to learn, grow, and reach their full potential.   Fire Season - Watch Duty Watch Duty is a great app that gives you up-to-date information about wildfires. It is essential to stay informed and aware of what is happening in our county and the surrounding areas. Watch Duty is a great way to access the latest information. Events     Education Foundation of Cotati & Rohnert Park THE EDUCATION FOUNDATION OF COTATI AND ROHNERT PARK (EFCRP) So happy you asked who we are.... We are THE EDUCATION FOUNDATION OF COTATI AND ROHNERT PARK! (EFCRP)   Since 1983, we have raised close to 2 million dollars for every school in Cotati and Rohnert Park! We are a nonprofit, completely volunteer organization. One hundred percent of our fundraising proceeds go directly to support the students and teachers of the Cotati/Rohnert Park Unified School District. In 202,5 EFCRP was able to donate over $63,000.00! Where did the money go? It went directly into your child's classroom.   Teachers were able to purchase books, audio-visual equipment, musical instruments, playground equipment, Computer Software, Science models, coding programs, learning activities for problem-solving skills, STEM and STEAM textbooks (integrated into many lessons), LEGO robots, and technology for 6th graders and SO MUCH MORE!   If you feel the need to do something positive for a great cause and a great organization, call the Executive Director, Vera Blanquie, 707-480-6408 Verab55@comcast.net Join the CRPUSD Team! "For our own success to be real, it must contribute to the success of others." ~ Eleanor Roosevelt Looking for a meaningful career? CRPUSD offers exciting opportunities to make a daily impact on students’ lives. Join our supportive community and help inspire the future—one student at a time! Link to EdJoin Paraprofessional District Wide Staff Secretary Human Resources Paraprofessional Lawrence Jones Paraprofessional Rancho Cotate Paraprofessional Evergreen Elementary Noon Duty Richard Crane Paraprofessional Technology Middle School Noon Duty Monte Vista Noon Duty Marguertite Hahn Noon Duty Technology Middle School Noon Duty University of La Fiesta Cafeteria Assistant District Wide  Calendar Mark your calendars! We have lots of exciting events coming up! All school events are available to you on this site. LINK Contact Us Contact info Please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns. We are here to assist. 707-792-4722 rochelle_gregori@crpusd.org www.crpusd.org

    Wednesday, Sep 17 2025

  • August Newsletter

    Community Newsletter A welcoming community that INSPIRES possibilities, CONNECTS people and IGNITES learning. August 22, 2025 🎉 LIVE FROM CRPUSD... IT'S THE 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR! We kicked off the 2025-26 school year in true CRPUSD fashion with energy, excitement, and a little Saturday Night Live flair! Last week, we rolled out the red carpet for our incredible staff and launched the year with music, laughter, and team spirit. From surprise visits by iconic SNL characters to unforgettable performances by our Rancho band, Color Guard, and cheerleaders, the event was a celebration to remember. A huge shout-out to all our schools for bringing the energy during the Team Spirit Competition. Your creativity was next-level! And congratulations to Technology Middle School, this year’s Spirit Trophy winner! We’re ready to make this school year one of the best yet. Let’s keep the momentum going because at CRPUSD, we don’t just start school... we kick it off LIVE! Superintendent's Message Finding Joy in the School Year Dear CRPUSD Community, As we begin another school year together, I would like to take a moment to discuss something that often gets lost in the busy days of schedules, homework, and activities: joy. Joy is not just a nice extra; it’s a vital part of learning and living. When our students experience joy, they are more engaged, more creative, and more willing to take on challenges. Joy gives them the confidence to explore, to take risks, and to connect with others in meaningful ways. As a school community, we are dedicated to fostering environments where joy can flourish. That means making time for celebrations big and small, encouraging curiosity, and recognizing the unique strengths and successes of each child. Sometimes it’s the spontaneous laughter during a group project, the pride of mastering a new skill, or the simple kindness of a friend that makes all the difference in a student’s day. We also know that joy needs room to grow. Just as we protect time for academics, we must also protect time for play, for creativity, for friendship, and for inspiration. These moments don’t take away from learning; they fuel it. So, as partners in your child’s education, I encourage you to look for opportunities at home to pause and share in the joy your child experiences. Ask them what made them smile today. Celebrate their efforts as much as their achievements. And remind them that their happiness matters! Here’s to a year filled with connection, laughter, and moments of pure joy for our students, for our families, and all of us. With gratitude and joy, Maite Iturri, Ed.D. Superintendent Celebrations CRPUSD Years of Service Celebration 35 YEARS- Teresa Ruffoni 30 YEARS - Michelle Talbot 25 YEARS - Amy Riebli, Kathryn McGerity, Michelle Yanglin, Michelle Dunbar 20 YEARS - Heather Brown, Julia Rinaldi, Amber Baum, Susie Grahn, Larry Hendrickson 15 YEARS - Kevin White, James Gregoretti 10 YEARS - James Phegan, Ashley Tamba, Kristen Bunner, Georgina Dassow Guillory, Kelly Sanborn, Carrie Weaver, Jeffrey Johnson, Katherine Munski, Kelly Peterson, David Pfeiff, Cara Mia Pilar, Oliver Steinfels, Jeremy Sullivan, Shirley Weyker, Shannon Lindeman, Amanda McCarthy, Maya Russell Nava, Angelio Tinoco Perez, Anna Gordon Fargo, Timothy Miller, Kimberly Blas, Kathryn Gingras, Mary Williamson 5 YEARS - Virginia Sousa, Dylan Ellis, Rosa Schwartz, Cassie Ellis Ciotlos, Alexandra Hartman, Lucia Papineau, Christina Lunde, Kristie Vitalone, Jessica Ballou, Angelica Diaz Ochoa, Carmen Ayme Abarca, Ashley Groom, Ashley Cook, Heather Rodriguez, Monica Zamora, Micaela Einselen, Brandy Tibbets, Melanie Medeiros Opportunities and Information New City Ordinances New City Ordinance Updates Affecting Students On July 22, 2025, the Rohnert Park City Council approved updates to the Municipal Code: Daytime Loitering: Minors are now prohibited from loitering off-campus between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., matching school hours. This includes University Square, next to Rancho Cotate High School. Tobacco Definition Update: The law now includes vapes, e-cigarettes, and other vaping products as "tobacco products." These changes took effect July 23, 2025, and will be enforced at the start of the 2025–26 school year. The Department of Public Safety is taking these steps to reduce off-campus issues and ensure a safe and positive school experience for all students. Loitering means hanging around in public without a clear purpose and may involve blocking pathways or ignoring requests to leave.   Why we recommend the PowerSchool Parent Portal Website over the PowerSchool Parent Portal App PowerSchool App – What Families Should Know We want to share a few important details about using the PowerSchool app so you can get the best experience: 1. Logging In (Single Sign-On) Students log in using their school Google account. On some devices, the app may try to use the Google account already signed in—often a personal one. Switching to the school account can be tricky, and sometimes it’s not possible on that device. 2. Missing Features in the App Our district has added many custom features to PowerSchool. The mobile app is designed for the standard version, so it won’t show all the same features you’ll see on the website. 3. Older Devices As the app is updated for better speed and security, it may stop working on older devices or operating systems. Unfortunately, this is set by the app developers and can’t be changed by the district. The Best Way to Get All the Information The PowerSchool app is still helpful for many families, but for the most complete and up-to-date information, we recommend logging in through the web version on a computer or browser.   CRPUSD is excited to partner with you in supporting your students’ success! One of the best ways we can stay connected and work together is through PowerSchool, our student information system. PowerSchool keeps your family’s contact information up to date and allows us to share important school updates with you. Over the summer, the district invited families to create a PowerSchool account and complete the required forms. If you’ve already updated your forms, thank you so much! You’re helping us start the school year strong. Completing these forms increases our funding and benefits our students. How our students benefit from your participation includes: Increased support for homeless & foster children Increased funding for after-school programs Increased communication with our families Strengthened collaboration with our parents and community Enhanced mental health and student support services If you haven’t yet set up an account or updated this year’s forms, we encourage you to take a few minutes to do so soon. It’s quick and easy, and you’ll find the forms in your parent portal on the left-hand navigation bar. Need help? We’re here for you! -Call your student’s school office, we’re happy to walk you through it in person or over the phone. -You can also reach out to the Student Services office at (707) 792-4700 for support with setting up your account. Thank you for partnering with us we’re looking forward to a great year together! Percentage of Schools Participation Our families are doing great, completing the Educational Benefits forms on PowerSchool! Keep it going.   E-Scooter Law in California As we transition back to school, we just wanted to provide a reminder about the California E-Scooter law. We want to make sure all our students are safe as we start our 2025-2026 school year! Thank you for your support. ● Age: Riders must be 15.5 and have a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit. ● Helmets: Riders under 18 must wear helmets. Failure to do so can result in a traffic stop and a fine of up to $200. ● Side Walks: California law prohibits the use of motorized scooters on sidewalks. ● Where to ride: E-scooters can only be driven on bicycle paths, trails, or bikeways, not sidewalks. ● Speed limit: E-scooters can't go faster than 15 miles per hour. Going over the speed limit can result in a traffic stop and a ticket of up to $250. ● Lighting: E-scooters must have adequate lighting in low-light conditions. ● No Passengers: E-scooters can only safely accommodate one person. ● Traffic rules: E-scooters must follow traffic rules as a motor vehicle does.   October is Earthquake Preparedness Month Help your child understand what to do in an earthquake! Great ShakeOut Drill is October 16, 2025. Link to more information. Events   The Rapid Training Institute is offering a Free Community Narcan Education Event: Event: Community Narcan Education Day Date: September 7th, 2025 Time: 11 am to 1 pm Location: Coyote Sonoma, Healdsburg **Free for all teens and families What we’re offering — completely free of charge: Narcan training + take-home doses Fentanyl testing strips Basic CPR instruction Straightforward education that empowers teens to protect themselves and their peers. The fentanyl crisis is not slowing down. We’re seeing fatal overdoses in every age group, including high schoolers. This event is about equipping the public with real tools and real knowledge to save lives. Here is the link for RSVP: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/family-narcan-day    Join the CRPUSD Team! "For our own success to be real, it must contribute to the success of others." ~ Eleanor Roosevelt Looking for a meaningful career? CRPUSD offers exciting opportunities to make a daily impact on students’ lives. Join our supportive community and help inspire the future—one student at a time! Link to EdJoin Paraprofessional District Wide Staff Secretary Human Resources Paraprofessional Lawrence Jones Paraprofessional Rancho Cotate Paraprofessional Evergreen Elementary Noon Duty Richard Crane Paraprofessional Technology Middle School Noon Duty Monte Vista Noon Duty Marguertite Hahn Noon Duty Technology Middle School Noon Duty University of La Fiesta Cafeteria Assistant District Wide  Calendar Mark your calendars! We have lots of exciting events coming up! All school events are available to you on this site. LINK Contact Us Contact info Please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns. We are here to assist. 707-792-4722 rochelle_gregori@crpusd.org www.crpusd.org

    Friday, Aug 22 2025

  • New Human Resources Senior Executive Director

    Dear CRPUSD Parents and Community,    Please join me in welcoming Ms. Rachel Allen to her new position as Executive Director of Human Resources! Ms. Allen has worked for our District for 8 years and is very excited to join the CRPUSD Human Resources Department. We look forward to having Ms. Allen lead our Human Resources Team, bringing her extensive knowledge of the District to her new role.  In Partnership,  Maite Iturri Ed.D.,  Superintendent Welcome, Rachel Allen, Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District New Executive Senior Director of Human Resources We are excited to announce the selection of Rachel Allen as the new Senior Executive Director of Human Resources for Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District, pending formal Board approval on August 19, 2025. Most recently, Ms. Allen served as the District’s Director of Special Education, overseeing services from preschool through age 22. In this role, she led staffing, budget planning, and developed program improvement plans aligned with state and federal standards. She represented the district in labor negotiations, due process proceedings, and collaborative labor-management work. She has consistently demonstrated her ability to be a strong team player and effective communicator.  Ms. Allen brings nearly two decades of experience in public school leadership, along with a lifelong connection to the field of education, having grown up in a family of teachers. This deep-rooted commitment has guided her work in creating systems that value and support the people who make schools thrive. Her earlier leadership roles include serving as an Assistant Principal, Special Education Supervisor, and Content Specialist in the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD). While serving in SFUSD, Ms. Allen directly supported school sites with advanced professional learning that championed inclusive education and creative learning strategies. Ms. Allen’s career began in the classroom and in community-based program experiences that continue to shape her people-first, equity-driven leadership style. As Executive Director of Human Resources, Ms. Allen will lead the District’s Human Resources Team in supporting employee success across all departments, focusing on recruitment, employee retention, labor relations, and cultivating a workplace culture that reflects the values and mission of Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified. Please join us in welcoming Rachel Allen to this critical leadership role!

    Tuesday, Aug 05 2025

  • Early Dismissal for 2025–2026 School Year

    Dear CRPUSD Elementary Families, While you are just beginning to enjoy your summer, we are excitedly planning to welcome your children back for the 2025–2026 school year! We wanted to communicate some dismissal information to assist in your planning for the 2025-2026 school year.  New Wednesday Early Release Time Our elementary schools observe early release days each Wednesday throughout the school year. These days provide valuable opportunities for our faculty to participate in professional development, which our students benefit from year-round.  This year, our Wednesday early release time has changed from 11:35 AM to 12:35 PM.   Students will now eat lunch before dismissal, and all regular procedures will remain in place. First Three Days for Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Kindergarten (K) ONLY For TK and K, we feel it’s vital to support a smooth transition into the new school year for our youngest learners. As such, the first three days of school will be early release days for all TK and K students.  Dismissal will be at 12:35 PM for the first three days: Wednesday, July 16, through Friday, July 18, for Richard Crane Year Round Elementary Wednesday, August 13, through Friday, August 15, for all other elementary and TK-8 sites  This gentle start is especially helpful for our TK and K students, as it allows them to begin adjusting to the structure and expectations of a full school day in a gradual and supportive way. Easing into longer days helps reduce fatigue, learn new routines, and create a positive foundation for a successful school year. The YMCA will be open to accept students during early release days; students must be pre-registered. We appreciate your support as we prioritize a smooth and developmentally appropriate start for all students.  Elementary Parent-Teacher Conference Week: November 3-7, 2025  Historically, CRPUSD has held parent-teacher conferences throughout the school year as needed. In collaboration with our educators, we are pleased to introduce a  dedicated Elementary Parent-Teacher Conference Week   from   November 3–7, 2025   (October 20–24, 2025 for Richard Crane Year-Round Elementary ). During these weeks,  student dismissal at all elementary schools, including Thomas Page Academy, will be at 12:35 PM  to allow time for conferences. This unified approach allows us to strengthen our communication with families, provide consistent support to students, and create opportunities for collaboration with other staff members when needed. It also enables site administrators and special education staff to be more readily available for consultation and support. Families will receive additional information about scheduling and logistics from their school principal at the beginning of the 2025–2026 school year. We are excited to continue building strong partnerships with families in support of every student’s success. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your School Principal. In partnership, Maité Iturri, Ed.D., Superintendent

    Thursday, Jun 12 2025

  • Special Day Class moves in CRPUSD

    Dear Parents, Guardians, and Staff, As the overall student population of the Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District (CRPUSD) grows, the existing configuration of housing special day classes (SDCs) on only two Elementary campuses (Evergreen and Monte Vista) has become increasingly unsustainable. To address this, the district is expanding SDCs to five elementary school campuses.  More sites will allow the district to accommodate the growing number of students needing SDC placements.  This will enable better resource allocation and provide students with improved access to schools within their neighborhood, rather than a model that frequently relocates students from their school of residence. It also allows more campuses to experience the benefits of a continuum of support services and access to an inclusive learning environment. Students can attend programs closer to home, reducing travel time and fostering community inclusion. Lastly, this promotes equitable access to special education services throughout the district. We have also added a co-taught Early Education program to our year-round school, Richard Crane. Moving and expanding programs across multiple campuses requires significant planning and coordination. Thank you to the teachers, paraprofessionals, service providers, administrators, and families who have provided input and helped plan these moves. Each Elementary site with Special Day classes will have a special education program specialist assigned to help develop and support our programs.  We understand that change can cause uncertainty and concern about how programs will function. We are here to support you and address any questions that arise. Our special education staff is outstanding and strives for the best for our students and families.  In partnership, Maité Iturri, Superintendent  Rachel Allen, Director of Special Education  For the 2025-2026 school year, the following services will be available at the following Elementary sites: SCHOOL SITE  RSP INCLUSIVE  EARLY EDUCATION CO-TAUGHT CLASSES MILD/ MODERATE  SOCIAL SUPPORT NEEDS EXTENSIVE SUPPORT NEEDS COUNSELING ENRICHED (BEST)  MARGUERITE HAHN  TK-5 X  K-5 EVERGREEN TK-5 X   TK-5  2-5 THOMAS PAGE ACADEMY TK-8 X TK and K JOHN REED TK-5 X  TK-5 RICHARD CRANE TK-5 X TK UELF  TK-5 X TK and K TK-5 MONTE VISTA  TK-5 X  TK-5

    Monday, Jun 09 2025

  • Incident on Trail

    Dear CRPUSD Community.  We would like to bring to your attention an incident that occurred after school yesterday on the trail behind the school, located between Evergreen and LJ. A man reportedly yelled at a middle school student and exposed himself. Law enforcement responded promptly, and the individual was apprehended and arrested. We are deeply grateful that the student involved is safe and that the situation was resolved quickly. However, this serves as an important reminder for all members of our community to remain alert and exercise caution when using the trail. We encourage families to have conversations with their children about staying aware of their surroundings, traveling in groups when possible, and immediately reporting anything that feels unsafe or uncomfortable to a trusted adult, school staff member, or local authorities. The safety and well-being of our students, staff, and school community remain our highest priority. Please do not hesitate to contact the school or district office if you have any questions or concerns. We realize that messages like these in our community are scary and can generate a high level of anxiety and distress in students. You can reach out directly to your child’s principal for support. We encourage you to contact your healthcare provider or the  Petaluma People Services Center for community services  at  (707) 765-8488. If you are not currently receiving Nixel updates, please text your zip code to 888777 to receive alerts.  Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping our schools safe. In Partnership, Maité Iturri, Ed.D., Superintendent 

    Friday, May 30 2025