BUSD News May 29, 2026

BUSD News BUSD News May 29, 2026 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  Not displaying correctly? View in browser     IMPORTANT: Please scroll to the bottom of the email thread, select “view entire message” to read and view the full newsletter       Can’t make it in person? Join us LIVE as we celebrate the incredible achievements of the Class of 2026! We will be live steaming all three high schools on our YouTube Channel - @BellflowerUSD Somerset High School: June 2nd, 2026 at 7:00 PM PST Mayfair High School: June 3th, 2026 at 7:00 PM PST Bellflower High School: June 4th, 2026 at 7:00 PM PST       Dear Residents, We are excited to celebrate the graduating Class of 2026! As a longstanding tradition, fireworks will be launched each evening to honor our students’ achievements. We are notifying residents who live close to Ron Yary Stadium in advance to ensure everyone is aware of the celebrations and can prepare accordingly—whether that means making accommodations for pets, individuals sensitive to noise, or simply stepping outside to enjoy the show! Thank you for your understanding and for joining us in celebrating this special milestone for our students. Date: June 3rd-4th, 2026 Approximate start time: 8:30 PM PST (conclusion of ceremonies) Location: Ron Yary Stadium 15301 McNab Ave, Bellflower, CA 90706 Bellflower Unified School District is committed to protecting student data privacy while providing access to high-quality digital learning tools and educational resources. Below is a list of vendors and applications that have been reviewed and categorized as Approved, Not Approved, or Pending Approval based on their compliance with student data privacy requirements. If you do not see a program, website, or vendor you would like to use, please complete the Student Data Privacy App Request Form here. Once the request has been reviewed and approved, the district will work to initiate the vendor approval process. As technology continues to play an important role in education, it is essential that school districts implement practices that ensure student information is handled responsibly, securely, and in compliance with all applicable laws. Bellflower Unified School District is dedicated to maintaining a balance between utilizing digital tools to enhance student learning and safeguarding student privacy. Federal and state laws, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), establish guidelines for how student information may be collected, shared, and protected. The district’s Educational Technology and Administrative Services teams work collaboratively to review vendors and ensure compliance with these legal and privacy standards. Certain websites and online services may require parental consent before student information can be shared. Under FERPA, districts may share limited student data with educational service providers without parental consent when the service qualifies under the “School Official Exception” and is used for legitimate educational purposes. An example of this includes district-managed student accounts for educational platforms such as Google Workspace for Education. To learn more about Student Data Privacy please visit our website:  https://www.busd.k12.ca.us/departments/business-services/technology/student-privacy The Board of Education recognized student athletes who have earned the distinction of League Champions, the Mayfair Color Guard Championship, our top scholars, and our student board member.  Bellflower High School Boys Tennis — Mid Cities League Champions Coach Jose Ordinario Coach Andrew Malonzo The Bellflower High School Boys Tennis Team has captured the Mid Cities League Championship, finishing the season with a remarkable 18-0 record. Samuel Mendoza Edward Menchu Jonathan Gonzalez Gavin Taboclaon Isaac Ovalle Victor Serrano Justin Garcia Fernando Mendez Jaime Delgado Issac Ramirez Miguelangel Calero Vaca Alex Frias Joshua Contreras Martin Garcia Axel Bonilla Mid Cities League Doubles Champions Gavin Tabaclaon and Victor Serrano Mayfair High School Varsity Boys Baseball The Mayfair Monsoons had an outstanding season, finishing 20-8 and capturing the Mid Cities League Championship in back-to-back seasons. This year's team featured: - 2nd Team All-League: Isaac Mendez & Matthew Anaya  - 1st Team All-League: Gabriel Diaz, Maxx Gamez, Zion Verduzco & Jacob Brown  - Mid Cities Pitcher of the Year — "Cy Young" Award: Spencer Cummins  - Mid Cities All-League MVP: Aidan Sullivan  Led by Manager Frank Ravelo and Coaches Andrew Diggle and Jeff Van Fossen—what a season, Monsoons! Matthew Anaya Damien Andrade Jacob Brown Ryan Corros Spencer Cummings  Gabriel Diaz Dennis Ferrer Maxx Gamez Lucas Gonzales Isaac Mendez Austin Munoz David Perez Erik Salcedo Austin Scofield Brayden Smith Gabriel Soto Aidan Sullivan Dominic Uffmann Zion Verduzco Mayfair High School — Swimming Josh Price is a back-to-back CIF Champion in both the 50-meter freestyle and 100-meter butterfly. Josh went on to compete at the State Championship Finals at Clovis West High School in Fresno, placing 10th in the 100-meter butterfly and 13th in the 50-meter freestyle— a tremendous accomplishment on the state stage. Mayfair High School Winter Color Guard — WGASC 1st Place, HSA Division The Mayfair Winter Color Guard earned a 1st Place finish in the WGASC High School A Division — one of the largest and most competitive winter guard organizations in Southern California. This achievement reflects their dedication, teamwork, and commitment to representing Mayfair and our district with pride. Color Guard Director Malika Bookout Advisor Lauren Dominguez Advisor Alfonso Gastelum Band Director Gerardo Ramirez Analia Alvarez Montes Emily Charles Alysa Garcia Parker Hirschy Esmeralda Islas Madison Jardiniano  Kimberly Pelayo Hayden Svay Haylie Trinh VALEDICTORIANS We are proud to present one of the two Valedictorians representing Bellflower High School:   Victor Covarrubias Victor has earned a cumulative grade point average of 4.56. Victor has been in the Bellflower Unified School District for 11 years, attending Washington Elementary School before promoting to Bellflower Middle and High School. Victor has been actively involved on our campus and participated in numerous academic, athletic, and extracurricular activities including Cross Country, Swim, Track, Art Club, Thespians, Red Cross Club, Academic Program of Excellence (APEX), California Scholarship Federation (CSF), National Honors Society (NHS), Ceramics Club, Key Club, and Mu Alpha Theta.Victor shared that his favorite class at Bellflower Middle and High School was AP Precalculus because of the positive classroom climate, where learning was both fun and enjoyable. This experience reflects the importance of building meaningful connections and creating an environment where students can thrive.Victor’s involvement and dedication both inside and outside the classroom reflect his commitment to excellence and embody what it means to be a Bellflower Buccaneer. Victor will attend the University of California San Diego, where he plans to major in Bioengineering. Looking ahead, he is considering a future career in medicine, with interests in becoming a radiologist, pathologist, or anesthesiologist. Congratulations Victor! Our second Valedictorian for the Class of 2026 at Bellflower High School is  David Loza.  David has earned an impressive cumulative grade point average of 4.56. He began his educational journey in Bellflower Unified School District at Washington Elementary School before promoting to Bellflower Middle and High School. David has challenged himself academically throughout high school, completing an impressive 11 Advanced Placement courses. In addition to his academic rigor, he has been actively involved on campus through organizations including Mu Alpha Theta, Academic Program of Excellence (APEX), California Scholarship Federation (CSF), and Key Club. David shared that his favorite class at Bellflower Middle and High School was AP Precalculus because of Dr. Kim’s teaching and the satisfaction that came from solving challenging problems. He enjoyed the process of working through difficult concepts and experiencing the reward of finding the solution. David’s dedication to academics and involvement on campus demonstrate his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. His journey reflects the perseverance and determination that define Bellflower Buccaneers. David will attend the University of California, Irvine, where he plans to major in Biological Sciences. Looking ahead, he hopes to pursue a career as a doctor and is currently interested in becoming either a hematologist or a general surgeon. On behalf of the board, we are proud to extend recognition to  Eiryl Aquino   for her exceptional achievement as Mayfair High School’s Valedictorian for the class of 2026. Eiryl has been a dedicated student within the Bellflower Unified School District since her elementary years at the Intensive Learning Center (ILC), eventually moving on to complete her secondary education at Mayfair. Throughout her journey, she has maintained a remarkable 4.63 GPA, demonstrating a tireless work ethic and a profound commitment to both her studies and her community.  Eiryl's academic experience is highlighted by her success in eight AP classes, yet it is her passion for AP United States History, Anatomy, and the Mariners program—where she currently serves as President that has truly defined her high school career. These subjects have not only prepared her for the rigors of higher education but have also inspired her to find joy in the learning process. Eiryl credits these classes with solidifying her goal of pursuing healthcare, showing her that a challenging curriculum can be both rewarding and engaging.  Beyond her academic pursuits, Eiryl has been an active leader in campus organizations such as Key Club and the Care Crafts Project. In these roles, she has consistently shown a desire to help others and improve the world around her. This fall, Eiryl will attend UCLA to pursue a degree in Physiological Science. We congratulate Eiryl on her outstanding success and look forward to seeing the impact she will make. SALUTATORIANS Bellflower High School  Salutatorian for the Class of 2026 is  Mayte Esparza . Mayte has earned an impressive cumulative grade point average of 4.44. She has been part of the Bellflower Unified School District family for the past 12 years, beginning her educational journey at Ramona Elementary School before promoting to Bellflower Middle and High School. Mayte has demonstrated outstanding leadership and involvement throughout her time at Bellflower Middle and High School. She has served as Color Guard Captain, Band Council member, APEX Secretary, Mu Alpha Theta President, Link Crew Cabinet member, and has also been actively involved in National Honors Society (NHS), California Scholarship Federation (CSF), and Red Cross Club. Through her many leadership roles and activities, Mayte has consistently shown dedication, service, and a commitment to making a positive impact on our campus community. Her involvement reflects both her passion for helping others and her drive to lead by example. Mayte will attend Mount Saint Mary’s University, where she plans to major in Nursing. Looking ahead, she hopes to pursue a career as a Registered Pediatric Nurse, dedicating her future to caring for and supporting children and families. The Mayfair 2026 Salutatorian is  Austin Lynch . Austin started in Bellflower Unified School District at the Intensive Learning Center and then was promoted to Mayfair Middle and High School. He is graduating with an impressive 4.6327 GPA. Austin challenged himself, taking many Advanced Placement courses in all subjects including: Human Geography, World History, Psychology, Spanish Language, Spanish Literature, Computer Science Principles, English Language and Composition, United States History, Biology, Chemistry, Statistics, Computer Science A, Calculus AB, English Literature, Economics, and Government. Austin is president of the Debate Club, Co-President of the Robotics club and the treasurer of the Environmental Science Club. Austin has been accepted and plans to attend Tufts University in the fall and will major in Bio Psychology. 2025-2026 Student Board Member On behalf of the Board of Education, we are proud to recognize  Chibuike   Iwuanyanwu  for his exceptional service as the student board member representative for the Bellflower Unified School District.  At Mayfair High School,  he is known for his leadership, dedication to academics and campus involvement in various clubs and programs.  Chibuike ’s passion for learning is evident in his depth and breadth of learning across multiple subjects. He has earned an impressive 4.3 GPA and the title of AP Scholar with Distinction for passing 8 AP exams. He attended ILC and is a member of our First BUSD Dual Immersion class, Captain of our Mayfair HS ESports Champion Team, CTE and Calaps Pathway Completer and Spanish Language Department Award winner in 2025. He is an exceptional scholar who has taken advantage of all BUSD has to offer and is excited and prepared to embark on the next chapter of his education.  Chibuike  is set to study Computer Science at Cal Poly Pomona in the Fall, eager to continue his pursuit of knowledge and academic success. On behalf of the entire BUSD community we offer our heartfelt congratulations to Student Board member  Chibuike  Iwuanyanwu.   Facilities Master Plan https://simbli.eboardsolutions.com/Meetings/Attachment.aspx?S=36030522&AID=1539391&MID=66268 simbli.eboardsolutions.com Review of the draft LCAP 2026-2027 Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) Board Presentation LCAP May 28, 2026.pdf Download 647.9 KB Board Presentation LCAP May 28, 2026 SPANISH.pdf Download 669.1 KB School Board / Board Meeting Dates June 11, 2026 Board Meeting - 6:30 PM June 25, 2026 Board Meeting - 6:30 PM All Board of Education meetings are held in the Board Room of the District Administration Building, 16703 South Clark Avenue, Bellflower, CA 90706. Regular and Special Meetings are held at 6:00 PM on selected Thursdays, unless otherwise indicated below. Meetings Now Available on YouTube: @BellflowerUSD Board Meetings On Youtube BUSD First Burger Competition Students created original burger recipes, and students from MHS and BHS voted on the finalists, with the winning burger becoming our first official BUSD Burger —  “The Good Burger,”  named by the winning team.  The two teams are as follows:  (Runner up) Red burger:  Maria Boktor, Elijah Davis, Ruby Mejia, Daylah Olguin, Yessenia Ortega Carbajal. (Winner) Blue burger:  Ruby Valdivia, Adriana Varela, Jorge Rodriguez, Josiah Sorto, Jaden Hernandez. Big Wins For Bellflower Middle/High School Institute of Public Strategies and Avance Latino worked with BMHS 7th and 8th grade students during the CalKIDS Scholarship enrollment process.  They helped 312 students claim their CalKIDS Scholarships, totaling  $238,020.31! This is an incredible accomplishment a Sports Day 2026 was a blast! Sports Day 2026 was a blast! Huge shoutout to our amazing 4th grader, Brielle Camacho, for pitching this incredible idea to  @busd_superintendent  Dr. Simon! From soccer to kickball, and everything in between, we filled the day with excitement and teamwork.  @stephenfosterelementary  vs  @intensivelearningcenterbusd . So happy to revive this tradition for Bellflower Unified! Here’s to many more fun-filled days ahead!    Summer Recreation Catalog is here! Online registration is open for the 2026 Summer Recreation Catalog, delivered to Lakewood homes over the weekend.  The catalog offers many fun, family friendly opportunities along with information on special events and programs such as Block Party, Concerts in the Park, summer camps and the aquatics program. Priority mail-in registration and online registration for Lakewood residents is open now, and begins Monday, June 1 for non-residents. Online registration is fast, easy and convenient. Most classes and activities begin the week of June 15.  Register online  or call 562-866-9771, ext. 2408 for assistance or to request an alternative format. Supporting teen mental health is a community effort May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and suicide prevention is an important issue that affects families, schools, and neighborhoods throughout our city—especially when it comes to our young people. Today’s teens face many challenges. From school stress and social media pressure to friendships and personal identity, it’s a lot to handle. According to the CDC, suicide is the second leading cause of death among people ages 10 to 24. And a national study found that 1 in 6 teens experiences a major depressive episode each year. Sadly, many teens don’t reach out for help. Stigma, fear, or simply not knowing where to turn can keep them silent. That’s why supporting teen mental health needs to be something we all take part in—whether you're a parent, teacher, neighbor, coach, or friend. Together, we can create a community where young people feel seen, heard, and supported. Watch the video for how Care Solace can help teens and families. The City of Lakewood is proud to partner with Care Solace, a free and confidential care coordination service that helps individuals—including teens and families—connect with mental health providers, substance use treatment, and social services. Call  888-515-7881  for 24/7/365 multilingual support. Visit  caresolace.com/lakewoodca  to search independently or click “Book Appointment” for personal guidance. Learn the warning signs of a teen in crisis and what you can do to help Lemonade Day Application Deadline Nears Kids are encouraged to sign up by June 1 for the 2026 Lemonade Day Lakewood project, a fun hands-on program designed to teach third to fifth grade students how to start, own and operate their own business—a lemonade stand—while learning about financial literacy, self-reliance and entrepreneurial skills. The program will conclude with each "graduate" ready to operate their own lemonade stand on Lakewood Lemonade Day, Saturday, Aug. 1. Apply by June 1 to be a part of the 2026 Lemonade Day program Recreation Services Hosts Kids Poster Contest Local youth are invited to celebrate July as Parks and Recreation month by submitting a poster depicting the theme: The Power of Play.  The contest is open to Cerritos residents ages 5 to 14 and to students currently attending schools in the ABC Unified School District, Valley Christian Schools, or the Bellflower Unified School District. Posters should be no larger than 11" x 17" and may use any drawing/painting materials (pencils, chalks, pastels, crayons, watercolors, or acrylics). Entries must be delivered to the Recreation Services Division at Cerritos City Hall no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 10. Winning posters will be posted on the City's website starting on Monday, July 6, and will remain there through the month of July.  Learn more about the Post Contest on the  City's website . AANHPI Heritage Month at Craig Williams In honor of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, 3rd-grade scholars in Ms. Ishida’s class presented speeches on Dodger players of Asian heritage. The Dodger players who were honored were Shohei Ohtani, Roki Sasaki, Dave Roberts, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Hyeseong Kim, and Tommy Edman. Each scholar did an amazing job and spoke with poise, confidence, and passion. Let’s go, Dodgers!  Washington Elementary College and Career Week To our amazing Team at Washington (Mr. Ayala, School Counselor, Ms. Letti (CSW) and Ms. Rios (Library Tech) we were able to complete the following in our Early College Awareness Program: •Facilitated a 5-week parent workshop series designed to build early college awareness and strengthen family engagement • Used Graciela’s Dream through the Latino Family Literacy Project to support discussions around college exploration and educational aspirations • Invited a recruiter from Cerritos College to provide families with information about college pathways and educational opportunities • Provided parents with firsthand perspectives through a current student and a Washington Parent from CSULB sharing her educational journey and experiences • Led parent activities aligned to each chapter to promote reflection, discussion, and family planning for students’ future educational goals • Provided families with books, materials, and resources to continue college-going conversations at home  ETM-LA at Woodruff Elementary With this being our third year implementing the Education Through Los Angeles (ETM-LA) program, our TK–4 students continue to enjoy and benefit from its rich musical experiences. Through engaging lessons, students are building confidence, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for the arts. Our spring performance was entertaining for students, staff, and families, and truly showcased the hard work and talent of our learners.  Woodruff Wolves Adventures at Science Camp Our 6th graders had an incredible experience during their four days at science camp at Emerald Cove Outdoor Science Institute, where they engaged in hands-on outdoor activities and meaningful lessons. Students explored nature, built new skills, and created lasting memories while learning outside the classroom.  Somerset Student Film Showcase Students at Somerset participated in the 2nd annual student-made film showcase this week. Student films The Silence Between Us and Adam Project were shown following a special guest Q&A with TV and movie producer Will Allegra. Mr. Allegra has received four Academy Award Nominations for his work on productions such as 21 & 22 Jump Street, Solo: A Star Wars Story, and Brigsby Bear. He’s also worked extensively in animation on such films Spider-Man: Into The Spider-verse, The Lego Movie 1 & 2 and Lego: Batman, as well as The Mitchells vs The Machines, and the television shows, The Last Man on Earth and Brooklyn 99. He spoke to the students about breaking into the entertainment industry and the importance of following one's passions in life. Somerset is grateful for the support of Creating Creators, who facilitated our Prop 28 funded film production class and coordinated this event with the class teacher, Mr. Brian Ahumada.  Las Flores 6th Grade Camp Adventures! 6th-grade students challenged themselves and built confidence during exciting camp activities like rock climbing and archery!  Through teamwork, perseverance, and encouragement, students stepped outside their comfort zones, tried new skills, and created unforgettable memories with their classmates. We are proud of their courage, positive attitudes, and willingness to take on new challenges!  Mayfair and Bellflower Students Unite to Celebrate Inclusion Mayfair Middle/High School and Bellflower Middle/High School came together to celebrate an incredible year of inclusion. This special gathering beautifully showcased the power of inclusiveness, giving students from both campuses the opportunity to connect, share experiences, and build lasting friendships. While we may sport different team colors, we are united in lifting one another up and creating a community where everyone feels valued and belongs. It was truly an inspiring day that reflected the very best of collaboration, kindness, and school spirit. Thank you Nothing Bundt Cakes, for donating 7 dozen cakes for our students to enjoy! Honoring the Artistic Talents of Mayfair Students We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who attended the Art Show. Congratulations to all the students who exhibited their artistic endeavors this year. Mayfair High/Middle School is truly home to some remarkable artists. A special thank you is also due to all the students who helped make this event a success. We would particularly like to acknowledge Jasper and Abbi for their significant assistance in matting the majority of the artwork this year. Your contributions were invaluable.   Wildcats Honored at the Sue Kunitomi Embrey Student Award Luncheon Over the weekend, Ms. Omura attended the Sue Kunitomi Embrey Student Awards Luncheon, where we proudly celebrated several of our Wildcat award recipients! The Sue Kunitomi Embrey Awards honor students whose work reflects themes of social justice, history, community, and advocacy. Sue Kunitomi Embrey was a Japanese American educator and civil rights activist who dedicated her life to preserving the history of the Japanese American incarceration camps during World War II and educating future generations about the importance of equity and justice. Congratulations to our amazing students for this well-deserved recognition and for representing Craig Williams Elementary so well!  A special thank you to Ms. Omura for going beyond the classroom to support, encourage, and celebrate our students. Your dedication and care continue to make a lasting impact on our Wildcats!  Ramona 5th Graders Make a Lasting Impression at In-N-Out Ramona's 5th graders went on a walking field trip to In-N-Out this week. Their outstanding behavior made a memorable impression on everyone they met. In fact, the restaurant manager, Elvis, praised the students and shared that they were the best group he’s had all year. We are incredibly proud of our Ramona students for representing their school with excellence. Way to go, Ramona 5th graders! Legacy Day at Ramona We had a very exciting and heartfelt Legacy Day at Ramona today. Seniors gave Ramona Rams great advice and shared their future paths and endeavors.  Bellflower Unified is HIRING! If you have the skills to empower our team and students in shaping brighter futures, we invite you to apply to join BUSD! Some of the Available Openings: Assistant Principal - High School (Mayfair Middle High School) Special Education Program Administrator Adaptive Physical Education Teacher Human Resources Technician 🍎🍉Food & Nutrition Services🥦🥑 Food & Nutrition Services updates the menus monthly. May Menus Got ideas or feedback to make our newsletter even better? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop your suggestions in the comments below.  Click Here Instagram Facebook X (Twitter)   Bellflower Unified School District https://www.busd.k12.ca.us/  

Friday, May 29 2026

BUSD News May 22, 2026

BUSD News BUSD News May 22, 2026 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  Not displaying correctly? View in browser     IMPORTANT: Please scroll to the bottom of the email thread, select “view entire message” to read and view the full newsletter This week, we celebrate the invaluable contributions of our dedicated support staff who make our school a better place every day! From administrative heroes to cafeteria champions, your hard work does not go unnoticed. Thank you for all that you do!    LA County Superintendent Edition  https://schoolnewsrollcall.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/LACounty_2026-2027.pdf schoolnewsrollcall.com In observance of Memorial Day, there will be no school on Monday,  May 25, 2026 . School will resume on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.  Craig Williams Classified Appreciation Week! Thank you to the Tovar Family, parents from Ms. Garcia’s class, for the generous donation and for catering a delicious taco spread.  We appreciate our parents and our classified staff!   Mayfair Legacy Day Mayfair seniors bid a heartfelt farewell to the hallways they once walked and the playgrounds they cherished. A beautiful tradition of Bellflower Unified School District as they revisit their elementary roots, from Foster, ILC, Jefferson, Craig Williams, and Lindstrom … they’re celebrating memories that will last a lifetime!   Supporting teen mental health is a community effort May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and suicide prevention is an important issue that affects families, schools, and neighborhoods throughout our city—especially when it comes to our young people. Today’s teens face many challenges. From school stress and social media pressure to friendships and personal identity, it’s a lot to handle. According to the CDC, suicide is the second leading cause of death among people ages 10 to 24. And a national study found that 1 in 6 teens experiences a major depressive episode each year. Sadly, many teens don’t reach out for help. Stigma, fear, or simply not knowing where to turn can keep them silent. That’s why supporting teen mental health needs to be something we all take part in—whether you're a parent, teacher, neighbor, coach, or friend. Together, we can create a community where young people feel seen, heard, and supported. Watch the video for how Care Solace can help teens and families. The City of Lakewood is proud to partner with Care Solace, a free and confidential care coordination service that helps individuals—including teens and families—connect with mental health providers, substance use treatment, and social services. Call  888-515-7881  for 24/7/365 multilingual support. Visit  caresolace.com/lakewoodca  to search independently or click “Book Appointment” for personal guidance. Learn the warning signs of a teen in crisis and what you can do to help Recreation Services Hosts Kids Poster Contest Local youth are invited to celebrate July as Parks and Recreation month by submitting a poster depicting the theme: The Power of Play.  The contest is open to Cerritos residents ages 5 to 14 and to students currently attending schools in the ABC Unified School District, Valley Christian Schools, or the Bellflower Unified School District. Posters should be no larger than 11" x 17" and may use any drawing/painting materials (pencils, chalks, pastels, crayons, watercolors, or acrylics). Entries must be delivered to the Recreation Services Division at Cerritos City Hall no later than 5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 10. Winning posters will be posted on the City's website starting on Monday, July 6, and will remain there through the month of July.  Learn more about the Post Contest on the  City's website . Super Special Day at ILC Our alumni from the Class of 2020 and the Mayfair Class of 2026 visited our campus.  Woodruff Wolves Perform Shrek Jr! An outstanding performance by our Woodruff learners in Shrek Jr. at the Bellflower Middle/High School auditorium! Our students and staff dedicated countless hours after school rehearsing, preparing, and bringing this production to life. Thank you to our incredible theater teacher, Summer Frey, along with Ms. Katherine Aguirre, Ms. Charlie Grant, and Ms. Andrea May, for their time, passion, and commitment to supporting our learners. Because of their efforts, our students were able to engage, connect, and shine through the performing arts.  Senior Legacy Day at Thomas Jefferson We were excited to welcome a special group of seniors back to Thomas Jefferson Elementary School! Many of these students once walked the same hallways and sat in the same classrooms as our current Jackrabbits, making their visit especially meaningful. Our students enjoyed hearing words of encouragement from these future graduates as they shared the importance of working hard, staying focused, and never giving up on their goals. It was inspiring to hear about their future plans, including college, careers, and the exciting opportunities ahead. Seeing our former students return reminded us that the future is bright at Thomas Jefferson. Today’s Jackrabbits are tomorrow’s leaders, dreamers, and difference-makers, and we cannot wait to see all they will accomplish!  Thank You, Woodruff Classified Staff! We would like to thank our Woodruff Elementary classified staff for their incredible work on the frontlines and behind the scenes. Woodruff could not operate without you. We appreciate you every day! College & Career Week was a success at Stephen Foster! A huge shout-out to the amazing school counselor, Mrs. Hernandez, for putting together such a meaningful week for students! We are so grateful for the time, care, and planning that went into helping our Bolts dream big about their futures. Thank you to all of our wonderful volunteers who helped make the events possible, and a special thank you to the Fire Department, Cerritos College, and Inglewood Police Department for inspiring our students and showing them the many paths their futures can take. Dream big, Bolts! Career Day at Las Flores! What an incredible and inspiring day at Las Flores! Our students had the opportunity to explore a wide variety of careers and learn directly from professionals who shared their experiences, passion, and career journeys.  A heartfelt thank you to our amazing parents who volunteered their time to showcase their careers and inspire our students to dream big and think about their future goals. Your stories made a lasting impact!  We also extend our appreciation to our college partners for supporting our students and helping build excitement about college pathways and opportunities.  Our students left Career Day energized, curious, and more excited than ever about their future possibilities. It was truly an awesome day of learning, inspiration, and connection!    Lindstrom celebrated Legacy Day A special visit from our former Lindstrom Lions graduating from Mayfair High School! S tudents loved cheering them on as they walked onto campus in their caps and gowns. Such a special full-circle moment! Some favorite memories of Lindstrom, they stated: Mr. Hedgpeth Space monkey Fall festival Kick ball Field Trips Mrs. Driscoll Mrs. Chong Sci Con Buddy Bench   Local Heroes Visit Washington Students This week, Washington Elementary students received a special visit from LA County Bellflower Fire Station #98 ! The young learners had an exciting time exploring the fire truck and learning about fire safety. A big thank you to our local heroes!    Bravo for Bellflower Middle School choir and Vocal Students! Shout out to Bellflower Middle School Mixed Choir and Jr. Vocal Ensemble for an awesome concert tonight! That’s a wrap for middle school concert seasons for 2025-2026! Bravo to the growth of these students!   Congratulations to MHS 2026 Scholarship Recipients! Mayfair Middle/High School PTSA was proud to award 5 scholarships totaling $2,000 to outstanding students who will continue their education after graduation. These scholarships recognize students who have demonstrated leadership, perseverance, resilience, academic achievement, service, and dedication to their future goals. Congratulations to our recipients in the photo with Mayfair PTSA President Silvia Jones and Principal Dr. Jennifer Morgan:  Rising Star Scholarship – Michaela H.   Sports Scholarship – Miles M.   CalAPS/CTE Scholarship – Spencer C.  Student Excellence Scholarships – David P. & Kyi A.  We are incredibly proud of each of these wonderful students and all they have accomplished during their time at Mayfair. We wish them continued success as they pursue their goals and future careers!   Monsoons Celebrate Student-Athletes College Signings Huge congratulations to our student-athletes for signing their letters of intent to continue their education and athletic careers at the next level! We are so proud of you all!!   School Board / Board Meeting Dates May 28, 2026 Board Meeting - 6:30 PM All Board of Education meetings are held in the Board Room of the District Administration Building, 16703 South Clark Avenue, Bellflower, CA 90706. Regular and Special Meetings are held at 6:00 PM on selected Thursdays, unless otherwise indicated below. Meetings Now Available on YouTube: @BellflowerUSD Board Meetings On Youtube Bellflower Unified is HIRING! If you have the skills to empower our team and students in shaping brighter futures, we invite you to apply to join BUSD! Some of the Available Openings: Special Education Mild/Moderate Teacher 2026-27 School Year Speech Language Pathologist Elementary Music Teacher 2026-2027 School Year Substitute Counselor 🍎🍉Food & Nutrition Services🥦🥑 Food & Nutrition Services updates the menus monthly. May Menus Got ideas or feedback to make our newsletter even better? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop your suggestions in the comments below.  Click Here Instagram Facebook X (Twitter)   Bellflower Unified School District https://www.busd.k12.ca.us/  

Friday, May 22 2026

BUSD News May 1, 2026

BUSD News BUSD News May 1, 2026 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  Not displaying correctly? View in browser     IMPORTANT: Please scroll to the bottom of the email thread, select “view entire message” to read and view the full newsletter We are excited to share the important dates and times for the upcoming 6th-grade and 8th-grade promotions, as well as our Graduating Class of 2026. These events mark significant milestones in our students' educational journeys, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements together. BUSD Elementary Promotions - June 4, 2026 Albert Baxter: 9:00 a.m.  Stephen Foster: 9:00 a.m.  Intensive Learning Center: 9:00 a.m.  Thomas Jefferson: 9:00 a.m.  Las Flores: 9:00 a.m.  Ernie Pyle: 9:00 a.m.  Esther Lindtrom: 9:00 a.m.  Ramona: 9:00 a.m.  Washington: 9:00 a.m.  Craig Williams: 9:00 a.m.  Frank E. Woodruff: 9:00 a.m.  BUSD Middle School Promotions Bellflower:  June 3, 2026,  at 11:00 a.m.  Las Flores:  June 4, 2026,  at 9:00 a.m.  Mayfair:  June 4, 2026,   at 11:00 a.m.  BUSD High School Graduations Somerset:  June 2, 2026 ,  at 7:00 p.m.  Mayfair:  June 3, 2026,  at 7:00 p.m.  Bellflower:   June 4, 2026,  at 7:00 p.m.  BUSD Culmination Ceremony - June 2, 2026 Adult Transition Center: 11:00 a.m. Bellflower’s 75th Birthday Bash was a huge success, bringing together students, families, staff, and a strong showing of alumni to celebrate 75 years of Buccaneer pride and tradition. The evening was filled with student performances, community connections, and moments honoring the school’s rich history and bright future. A special highlight of the event included a certificate presentation from Mayor Pro Tem Victor Sanchez and Council Member Dan Koops, recognizing the school’s lasting impact on the Bellflower community. The celebration truly reflected the spirit, legacy, and unity that have defined Bellflower for generations. Huge Congratulations To Our Mesa Coding Champions! We are thrilled to announce that the tandem of  Gregory Mejia and Ryder Hitt  (both 10th graders) took home 1st PLACE   in the MESA Regionals Coding Competition (Experienced Category) using Python 3! They traveled over 2 hours to UC Santa Barbara to represent CSULB and compete against the best young programmers in the region (first-place winners from UCLA, USC, UCSB, CSULA), bringing home the gold through hard work and incredible technical skill. Their dedication to mastering Python 3 and their stellar teamwork paid off! Please join us in congratulating them on this outstanding achievement! A HUGE congratulations to BHS ASB A HUGE congratulations to our  ASB Co-Presidents Steven & Zuleima and their incredible team  for earning the Outstanding Leadership Program Award (OPLA)… for the  9TH YEAR IN A ROW!!  Nine straight years of excellence, leadership, and Buc PRIDE—this is what it’s all about. We are beyond proud of the impact you continue to make on our campus and community. Once a Buc, always a Buc!  Congressional Art Competition Finalists Congratulations to the talented students of the Art Academy who were recognized as finalists in the Congressional Art Competition hosted by Congressman Robert Garcia. Notably, Kyleigh Tan received first place. Her artwork will be exhibited in the U.S. Capitol for one year. Additionally, Joanne Banez and Kendyl Gutierrez were ranked among the top 20 participants, reflecting their dedication and artistic ability.    City of Bellflower Bravo Award Huge congratulations to our amazing Bellflower Unified students for winning the City of Bellflower Bravo Award for their outstanding essays!  Shoutout to Angel Bazan from Bellflower High School and Andre Pena from Somerset High School for their incredible achievements! You both make us so proud!  LYS baseball/softball/T-ball registration opens April 18 Signups for Lakewood Youth Sports baseball, softball and T-ball teams will take place from April 18 through May 2.  T-ball teams are for boys and girls ages 4-5 and coach-pitch teams are for children ages 6-7. Baseball and softball teams are for boys and girls ages 8-17.  Registration is available online through the City’s  Recreation eCatalog . Select the Activities tab, then choose Sports League.  There are no registration fees for Lakewood residents . Proof of residency is required. The non-resident registration fee is $20. Birth certificates must be provided to the park office where you register before play begins. Alternative arrangements are available upon request. If you need assistance with registration or would like to request an accommodation, please contact  AccessRecreation@lakewoodca.gov  or  562-866-9771 , ext. 2408. Clifton M. Brakensiek Library - Smarty Pants Storytime Let’s get ready for school! Enjoy books, songs, rhymes, and movement while learning school readiness skills and having fun. For ages 2 - 5 with their parent or caregiver. When:  Thursday,  Apr 30, 2026   Time:  11:00am - 11:30am  This program is part of  Smart Start at the Library , LA County Library's collection of programs and services for early learners ages 0 - 5 and their caregivers. Attendance is limited, and advance registration is required. Please register every individual in your party, including kids. This will be used to save your spots in the program. We cannot guarantee availability for any unregistered attendees.  Program and materials provided in collaboration with DMH and MHSA. Register Here:  https://visit.lacountylibrary.org/event/15919842   Clifton M. Brakensiek Library - Mosaic Coasters Celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and learn about the significance of mosaics by creating your own mosaic coaster. Ages 13-17  When:   Saturday, May 02, 2026  Time:  2:00pm - 3:00pm Register Here:  https://visit.lacountylibrary.org/event/16257326   2026 Henry Lozano Memorial Scholarship The Hispanic Employees Association (HEA) sponsors the Henry Lozano Memorial Scholarship, a merit-based scholarship open to deserving students sponsored by our members in honor of HEA’s Founding President. To combat the glass ceiling he and many others faced, Henry Lozano founded HEA in 1975 to promote equal employment opportunities at all levels of the Metropolitan Water District (MWD). Throughout his career as HEA President, Lozano assisted in organizing and establishing various other diversity organizations at MWD and in promoting equal employment across Southern California. This year, the HEA will award five (5) $1,000 scholarships.  To be eligible, you must :   1. Be a student with primary residence in California, even if attending an out-of-state institution; or  2. Be a student recommended and sponsored by a Metropolitan employee  In addition, you must:    1. Be enrolled (or in the process of enrolling) in an accredited post-secondary (universities, colleges, trade and/or vocational) school  2. Be pursuing a course of study that leads to a certification (vocational/trade school), two-year, four-year, or graduate degree  3. Maintain a 2.50 grade point average or higher on a 4.0 scale  4. Not have been previous recipients of the Henry Lozano Memorial Scholarship, although previous applicants who were not recipients are encouraged to reapply  To apply, you must submit the following items as PDFs:   1. Complete high school or college transcripts, whichever is most recent  2. One written letter of recommendation  3. A short essay or video presentation answering question A or B from the checklist  4. A resume, including a list of community service, extracurricular activities, awards, etc.  5. Your signature on the scholarship application. If your primary residence is outside of California, please include a recommendation from a Metropolitan sponsor. If you do not have a Metropolitan sponsor, please email a short introduction about yourself to the  HEA@mwdh2o.com  to be connected with a potential sponsor.  To submit a completed application, please:  - upload all completed documents using this Google Form (requires access to a Google Account):   https://forms.gle/WXVCZuBMKoeQnfBSA OR email all completed documents to HEA@mwdh2o.com OR - email all completed documents to   HEA@mwdh2o.com 2026 Scholarship Applications will be accepted until May 17, 2026. Eric & Christine Alegria Public Service Scholarship The Greater Los Angeles Education Foundation is proud to offer this scholarship award to graduating high school students in Los Angeles County who are committed to continuing their education and building careers that service and strengthen their communities. Applicants should demonstrate strong academic achievement as well as financial need. Students should have an interest in fields such as political science, public policy, public administration, government, international relations, urban planning, education, or criminal justice, and aspire to career pathways in government agencies, nonprofits, policy advocacy, or other community-focused roles that improve people’s lives.   All eligible students are encouraged to apply today! Eligibility Requirements To be eligible for scholarship consideration, applicants must: Be a current senior and graduate from a public high school in Los Angeles County by June 2026 Have a 3.5 grade point average or higher (cumulative unweighted) Attend a 2- or 4-year university in 2026-2027 Plan to pursue degrees or careers in fields such as government, public administration, and public policy. Have a demonstrated financial need Selection Criteria  Applicants will be evaluated on the following criteria: Interest in pursuing studies and a career in public service Community awareness Financial need Application Timeline  Application Open: March 23, 2026 Application Deadline: May 8, 2026, by 11:59 pm PST Scholarship Award Disbursements: No later than August 1, 2026 Awards Selected students, known as Alegria Scholars, will receive up to $2,500 toward their college tuition for the 2026-2027 school year. Award disbursement can be made directly to students or sent to their college/university.  QUESTIONS Contact Kerry Franco at the Greater Los Angeles Education Foundation at kfranco@glaef.org or (323) 455-7071.  Click here for more information Lights, Camera, Baxter Bears This music video features the original voices of our amazing 5th & 6th-grade students, mixed by a local Bellflower mixing engineer. You’ll also spot students, teachers, and staff throughout this music video, bringing it all to life! Our video aims to inspire all of our students to do their best on the test! Special shoutout to Mrs. Barrios and Ms. Wada, our intervention teachers, for writing the original lyrics and handling filming and editing  A parody of “Golden” inspired by K-pop Demon Hunters. Baxter Bears, you truly are GOLDEN!    Baxter Bears Golden Music Video   Woodruff Elementary's Open House Woodruff Elementary students and teachers proudly showcased highlights of their engaging learning experiences and outcomes during our Open House, including college and career projects that reflected students’ post-high school goals and aspirations.  Hatching Curiosity: Woodruff Kindergarten Students Explore Life Cycles of Chickens Baby chicks have hatched in our Kindergarten classrooms! Students have been actively learning about the life cycles of chickens and butterflies, observing growth and change firsthand through hands-on experiences.  Celebrating our Amazing ILC Principal Sam Platis! Your leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our students and staff make a lasting impact every single day. Thank you for leading Amazing ILC with heart, vision, and purpose. We appreciate all that you do, Mr. Sam Platis!  Foster’s Young American Poetry Finalists We are so proud of our 6th graders! Their creativity and talent truly shine through in the beautiful poems and creative haikus they wrote. We’re especially excited that so many of our students had their work selected for publication in a poetry book! Congratulations authors — your words inspire us all!   Las Flores Students Build Skills in ELO Woodworking! Las Flores students are getting hands-on experience in creativity, problem-solving, and craftsmanship through the woodwork class from Nexplore through the Expanded Learning Program! From measuring and designing to safely using tools and bringing their ideas to life, students are learning patience, precision, and pride in their work. It’s amazing to see confidence grow with every project they complete! Future builders, designers, and creators in the making!  Camryn Hyde From BHS Makes History Huge congratulations to Camryn Hyde on earning All Team Athlete honors and making history as part of Bellflower’s very first STUNT team!  Your hard work, resilience, and dedication truly set you apart, especially competing in such a tough league alongside D1-level talent. You’ve raised the standard and shown what Bellflower athletes are made of. We’re so proud of you for putting your name in the history books!    Mayfair Celebrates 15 Students Achieving Reclassification We are incredibly proud to celebrate 15 outstanding students from Mayfair Middle/High School who have officially been reclassified! Reclassification is a significant academic milestone in which students who originally entered the school system as English Learners demonstrate English fluency and high proficiency through state testing, teacher evaluations, and strong overall classroom performance. Achieving Fluent English proficiency requires immense dedication, perseverance, and hard work over many years. We are absolutely thrilled to honor these students for this incredible achievement and look forward to watching them continue to thrive and excel in their educational journeys. School Board / Board Meeting Dates May 14, 2026 Board Meeting - 6:30 PM May 28, 2026 Board Meeting - 6:30 PM All Board of Education meetings are held in the Board Room of the District Administration Building, 16703 South Clark Avenue, Bellflower, CA 90706. Regular and Special Meetings are held at 6:00 PM on selected Thursdays, unless otherwise indicated below. Meetings Now Available on YouTube: @BellflowerUSD Board Meetings On Youtube Bellflower Unified is HIRING! If you have the skills to empower our team and students in shaping brighter futures, we invite you to apply to join BUSD! Some of the Available Openings: Dance Teacher (Grades K-12) 2026-2027 School Year Teacher Dual Immersion Elementary Speech Language Pathologist Elementary Music Teacher 2026-2027 School Year 🍎🍉Food & Nutrition Services🥦🥑 Food & Nutrition Services updates the menus monthly. May Menus Got ideas or feedback to make our newsletter even better? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop your suggestions in the comments below.  Click Here Instagram Facebook X (Twitter) Bellflower Unified School District https://www.busd.k12.ca.us/  

Friday, May 01 2026

BUSD News April 24, 2026

BUSD News BUSD News April 24, 2026 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  Not displaying correctly? View in browser     IMPORTANT: Please scroll to the bottom of the email thread, select “view entire message” to read and view the full newsletter What an unforgettable evening at the 2nd annual BUSD STAR Awards hosted at The Centre in Lakewood! It was a true privilege to honor our Spectacular, Terrific, Amazing, and Remarkable (STAR) employees who inspire us every day. Congratulations to our 2026 Teachers of the Year and Classified Employees of the Year. Congratulations to  Sjondrala Hill , our District Teacher of the Year! Congratulations to  Kaye Pettit , our District Classified Employee of the Year! A special thank you to our talented BUSD Elementary Choir, the Long Beach Blues Society, the IT department, and our Human Resources team for making this event possible. Thank you all for your dedication and hard work! 💙 We extend our sincere appreciation to our administrative staff for their professionalism, efficiency, and unwavering support. Your contributions are essential to our daily operations and continued success. Thank you! On Wednesday, April 29th, from 5:00–7:00 PM, our campus will come alive as we honor 75 years of tradition, pride, and Buccaneer excellence. This celebration is open to everyone — students, families, alumni, staff, district personnel, and members of our greater Bellflower community. 📍 15301 McNab Ave, Bellflower, CA 90706 This free community event will include: Student performances Historical displays showcasing our school’s legacy Food trucks Entertainment and special surprises And a few memorable moments you won’t want to miss! For 75 years, our school has been more than just a campus — it has been a cornerstone of the Bellflower community. We would love for you to join us as we celebrate the past, recognize the present, and look ahead to an exciting future. We hope to see you there!  Alumni RSVP here:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdRaVDLbR6BNy7McJYbC7lBDtqoMvk0UvS4q_Ru39cZ8T_2Jg/viewform?pli=1 Big Wins for CalAPS at Skills USA State! During Spring Break, CalAPS students competed at the SkillsUSA State Leadership and Skills Conference, and we could not be prouder of how they represented CalAPS. From Firefighting and EMT to Baking & Pastry, Drone, and beyond, our students demonstrated incredible skill, professionalism, and determination. They showed up prepared, supported one another, and truly embodied what it means to be part of a high-quality CTE program. Congratulations to two of our MakerSpace students (also Bellflower High students) -   Julian Luna   and  Dylan Becerra,  who earned a Gold Medal at SkillsUSA for Commercial Drone!! This means, they  were  the top team in the state of California! Next step, they are headed to Atlanta, Georgia to represent CalAPS and California at SkillsUSA Nationals in early June! We are also proud to share that the CalAPS SkillsUSA Chapter was recognized as a  Chapter of Distinction and earned GOLD  through the Chapter Excellence Program (CEP). Every chapter is encouraged to participate in the CEP, which includes three award levels that recognize program involvement and impact. Chapters that earn Gold—like CalAPS—are designated as Chapters of Distinction and are eligible for national selection as a   Models of Excellence  chapter. 1st Place Victory for Mayfair Color Guard! Congrats to the Mayfair High School color guard for finishing 1st at the WGASC color guard championships.  Congratulations to Ms. Vanessa Gonzalez from ILC! Ms. Vanessa Gonzalez has been recognized with the Mid-Cities SELPA Community Advisory Committee’s Impact Award!  Ms. Vanessa’s work ensures our students who attend RSP are provided with high-quality, dedicated support. She consistently goes above and beyond, especially in helping her students feel seen, appreciated, and a sense of confidence in their abilities.  On behalf of BUSD, congratulations, Ms. Vanessa! You make us all proud, and it is an honor to work with you! Final Superintendent Student Advisory Council Meeting As we wrap up the year with our final Superintendent Student Advisory Council meeting, it’s inspiring to see each student recognized for their dedication and hard work.  This year, all representatives from our schools have showcased incredible commitment, collaboration, and innovative ideas that truly reflect their passion for making a difference. During the last meeting, our student leaders shared their final insights for the LCAP goals, ensuring that every voice was heard! Here’s to our remarkable students – thank you for your hard work and commitment to excellence this year! Bellflower Council PTA honored with Social Media of the Year Award Bellflower Council PTA was honored to receive the Social Media of the Year Award from the 33rd District PTA. This recognition highlights our commitment to inclusive, engaging communication and our ability to connect not only with our local community, but also with neighboring cities and broader areas across Los Angeles County. Our goal has been to ensure that families, units, and community members stay informed, involved, and connected through meaningful and accessible outreach. Mayfair baseball scores in 7th to beat Lakewood in back-and-forth game Aiden Sullivan’s two-run triple in the seventh helps Mayfair continue its hot streak with a victory in the nonleague matchup Saturday. presstelegram.com Volleyball Game Preview: Mayfair Monsoons vs. Firebaugh Falcons + How To Watch Volleyball Preview: Mayfair Monsoons vs. Firebaugh Falcons maxpreps.com Volleyball Recap: Mayfair Picks Up Third Consecutive Win + How To Watch Volleyball Recap: Mayfair Monsoons vs. Firebaugh Falcons maxpreps.com The Board of Education celebrated Lennox Scott, a senior from Mayfair High School, as the Student Spotlight of the Month. Lennox has been part of the Bellflower Unified School District (BUSD) since elementary school and has greatly impacted his school community. Lennox has been involved in Mayfair's leadership program since seventh grade. He is the voice of the Monsoons, starting their days with the morning announcements. His maturity, talent, and unwavering reliability make him a standout leader. Director of Secondary Education, Gil Castañeda Jr., presented the high school graduation requirements overview. Presentation Available Here Superintendent of Educational Services, Bonnie Carter, presented district data progress overview. Presentation Available Here School Board / Board Meeting Dates May 14, 2026 Board Meeting - 6:30 PM May 28, 2026 Board Meeting - 6:30 PM All Board of Education meetings are held in the Board Room of the District Administration Building, 16703 South Clark Avenue, Bellflower, CA 90706. Regular and Special Meetings are held at 6:00 PM on selected Thursdays, unless otherwise indicated below. Meetings Now Available on YouTube: @BellflowerUSD Board Meetings On Youtube LYS baseball/softball/T-ball registration opens April 18 Signups for Lakewood Youth Sports baseball, softball and T-ball teams will take place from April 18 through May 2.  T-ball teams are for boys and girls ages 4-5 and coach-pitch teams are for children ages 6-7. Baseball and softball teams are for boys and girls ages 8-17.  Registration is available online through the City’s  Recreation eCatalog . Select the Activities tab, then choose Sports League.  There are no registration fees for Lakewood residents . Proof of residency is required. The non-resident registration fee is $20. Birth certificates must be provided to the park office where you register before play begins. Alternative arrangements are available upon request. If you need assistance with registration or would like to request an accommodation, please contact  AccessRecreation@lakewoodca.gov  or  562-866-9771 , ext. 2408. Clifton M. Brakensiek Library - Smarty Pants Storytime Let’s get ready for school! Enjoy books, songs, rhymes, and movement while learning school readiness skills and having fun. For ages 2 - 5 with their parent or caregiver. When:  Thursday,  Apr 30, 2026   Time:  11:00am - 11:30am  This program is part of  Smart Start at the Library , LA County Library's collection of programs and services for early learners ages 0 - 5 and their caregivers. Attendance is limited, and advance registration is required. Please register every individual in your party, including kids. This will be used to save your spots in the program. We cannot guarantee availability for any unregistered attendees.  Program and materials provided in collaboration with DMH and MHSA. Register Here:  https://visit.lacountylibrary.org/event/15919842   Clifton M. Brakensiek Library - Mosaic Coasters Celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and learn about the significance of mosaics by creating your own mosaic coaster. Ages 13-17  When:   Saturday, May 02, 2026  Time:  2:00pm - 3:00pm Register Here:  https://visit.lacountylibrary.org/event/16257326   2026 Henry Lozano Memorial Scholarship The Hispanic Employees Association (HEA) sponsors the Henry Lozano Memorial Scholarship, a merit-based scholarship open to deserving students sponsored by our members in honor of HEA’s Founding President. To combat the glass ceiling he and many others faced, Henry Lozano founded HEA in 1975 to promote equal employment opportunities at all levels of the Metropolitan Water District (MWD). Throughout his career as HEA President, Lozano assisted in organizing and establishing various other diversity organizations at MWD and in promoting equal employment across Southern California. This year, the HEA will award five (5) $1,000 scholarships.  To be eligible, you must :   1. Be a student with primary residence in California, even if attending an out-of-state institution; or  2. Be a student recommended and sponsored by a Metropolitan employee  In addition, you must:    1. Be enrolled (or in the process of enrolling) in an accredited post-secondary (universities, colleges, trade and/or vocational) school  2. Be pursuing a course of study that leads to a certification (vocational/trade school), two-year, four-year, or graduate degree  3. Maintain a 2.50 grade point average or higher on a 4.0 scale  4. Not have been previous recipients of the Henry Lozano Memorial Scholarship, although previous applicants who were not recipients are encouraged to reapply  To apply, you must submit the following items as PDFs:   1. Complete high school or college transcripts, whichever is most recent  2. One written letter of recommendation  3. A short essay or video presentation answering question A or B from the checklist  4. A resume, including a list of community service, extracurricular activities, awards, etc.  5. Your signature on the scholarship application. If your primary residence is outside of California, please include a recommendation from a Metropolitan sponsor. If you do not have a Metropolitan sponsor, please email a short introduction about yourself to the  HEA@mwdh2o.com  to be connected with a potential sponsor.  To submit a completed application, please:  - upload all completed documents using this Google Form (requires access to a Google Account):   https://forms.gle/WXVCZuBMKoeQnfBSA OR email all completed documents to HEA@mwdh2o.com OR - email all completed documents to   HEA@mwdh2o.com 2026 Scholarship Applications will be accepted until May 17, 2026. Eric & Christine Alegria Public Service Scholarship The Greater Los Angeles Education Foundation is proud to offer this scholarship award to graduating high school students in Los Angeles County who are committed to continuing their education and building careers that service and strengthen their communities. Applicants should demonstrate strong academic achievement as well as financial need. Students should have an interest in fields such as political science, public policy, public administration, government, international relations, urban planning, education, or criminal justice, and aspire to career pathways in government agencies, nonprofits, policy advocacy, or other community-focused roles that improve people’s lives.   All eligible students are encouraged to apply today! Eligibility Requirements To be eligible for scholarship consideration, applicants must: Be a current senior and graduate from a public high school in Los Angeles County by June 2026 Have a 3.5 grade point average or higher (cumulative unweighted) Attend a 2- or 4-year university in 2026-2027 Plan to pursue degrees or careers in fields such as government, public administration, and public policy. Have a demonstrated financial need Selection Criteria  Applicants will be evaluated on the following criteria: Interest in pursuing studies and a career in public service Community awareness Financial need Application Timeline  Application Open: March 23, 2026 Application Deadline: May 8, 2026, by 11:59 pm PST Scholarship Award Disbursements: No later than August 1, 2026 Awards Selected students, known as Alegria Scholars, will receive up to $2,500 toward their college tuition for the 2026-2027 school year. Award disbursement can be made directly to students or sent to their college/university.  QUESTIONS Contact Kerry Franco at the Greater Los Angeles Education Foundation at kfranco@glaef.org or (323) 455-7071.  Click here for more information Woodruff Kindergarten Adventures at Tanaka Farms Woodruff kindergarteners enjoyed an exciting field trip to Tanaka Farms, where they picked fresh strawberries and had the opportunity to pet friendly farm animals. For many students, the adventure was even more special as it included their very first bus ride. Celebrating Woodruff Volunteers In honor of Volunteer Appreciation Week, Woodruff Elementary would like to thank our amazing volunteers who truly support the growth of our school community! Their dedication helps create meaningful learning and social-emotional experiences that empower our students to grow and achieve. We are incredibly grateful for all that they do!   YMCA fun Activities at Thomas Jefferson During the morning enrichment block, students in our YMCA program have been engaging with Ozobots, creating an exciting and interactive start to their day. Ozobots are small, programmable robots that follow color-coded paths and respond to patterns, introducing students to the basics of coding in a fun and accessible way. As students design their own routes and experiment with different commands, they build problem-solving skills, creativity, and collaboration. This hands-on activity has quickly become a favorite, bringing energy, curiosity, and lots of smiles to our morning routine.   Washington’s March Madness Attendance Tournament Ms. Konyalian’s class had the highest attendance percentage for the month of March.  Stephen Foster is striving for excellence! We’ve got some major brain power in Ms. Reeser’s first grade class! We are proud to share that these bolts have completed their first grade ST Math journeys! Keep striving for excellence!    Esther Lindstrom Elementary Welcomes Mayfair Unified! We loved hosting a special assembly for our upper graders! Students from Mayfair Unified joined us to share about their incredible programs, including Unified P.E., leadership, cheer, and more opportunities available at Mayfair. Unified classes are a wonderful way for students with strong leadership qualities to connect with and support peers of all abilities while promoting inclusion and building a positive school community . BHS Angels and Ensemble performing at Fullerton Jazz Festival Angels and Ensemble had a great time performing at Fullerton Jazz Festival! They did a fantastic performance. It was also inspiring to watch other groups perform. Bravo everyone! ATC Students Meet Long Beach Mayor ATC students met the mayor of Long Beach at the farmers market today! Bellflower Unified is HIRING! If you have the skills to empower our team and students in shaping brighter futures, we invite you to apply to join BUSD! Some of the Available Openings: Bus Drivers Instructional Assistant Series & Avid Tutor Substitute Teacher 2025-2026 School Year Moderate Severe Special Ed Teacher 🍎🍉Food & Nutrition Services🥦🥑 Food & Nutrition Services updates the menus monthly. April Menus Got ideas or feedback to make our newsletter even better? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop your suggestions in the comments below.  Click Here Instagram Facebook X (Twitter) Bellflower Unified School District https://www.busd.k12.ca.us/  

Friday, Apr 24 2026

BUSD News April 3, 2026

BUSD News BUSD News April 3, 2026 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  Not displaying correctly? View in browser     IMPORTANT: Please scroll to the bottom of the email thread, select “view entire message” to read and view the full newsletter We gathered to honor Las Flores as both a 2026 California and National “School to Watch.” This recognition highlights our commitment to academic excellence, equity, and continuous improvement—all made possible through the hard work of our dedicated staff, inspiring students, and supportive families. A special thank you to our speakers, Superintendent Dr. Erin M. Simon, Director Tami Zylla, and Board President Mayra Garza, along with our Board of Education members and community representatives who joined us in this celebration. It’s a proud moment for our entire community! Let’s keep the momentum going as we strive to reach new heights together! CalAPS registration is now open for incoming 9th grade - 12th grade students. Visit our website for the Fall 2026 registration form, under the registration tab. See our course videos for more details about each course. Call the CalAPS office for more information. 562-866-9011 ext. 2186 Important Reminders: Reminder! There will be no school April 6th - 10th , 2026, for the Spring Break - School Closed.  School will resume on Monday, April 13, 2026. Congratulations Dr. Jovani Flores from BMHS On Wednesday, March 25, counselor Jovani Flores successfully completed the defense of his dissertation at Cal State University Fullerton. Mr. Flores is a mentor and an example to all students on the Bellflower high school campus. We are so proud of him and his commitment to showing our students that learning never stops. Congratulations Dr. Flores. A proud achievement for Dr. George Torres from BMHS George Torres athletic trainer and teacher at Bellflower high school has completed his degree in organizational leadership from the university of La Verne. He has been studying barriers and facilitators to interprofessional education: exploring, athletic training, students experiences, and readiness for collaborative practice. Congratulations on your amazing accomplishment Dr. Torres! BRAVO Essay Winners Congratulations to this year’s Bravo Essay Award winners, Andre Melgar-Pena from Somerset High School and Angel Bazan from Bellflower High School. These outstanding 12th Grade students will each receive a $500 scholarship from the City of Bellflower and will be honored at the 30th Annual Bravo Awards on Thursday, April 23 at the Bellflower Civic Center.  Thank you Sean Collins from Somerset We are incredibly proud of our talented student, Sean Collins, for the hard work, dedication, and craftsmanship shown in creating a beautiful commemorative plaque for congresswoman, Nanette Barragan. This special piece will be proudly displayed in the Congresswoman’s Office in Washington, D.C., serving as a lasting symbol of our student’s creativity and excellence. We celebrate this outstanding achievement and the meaningful impact of their work. Project Shepherd offers year-round help Lakewood Project Shepherd is more than just a holiday program. Emergency help is available year-round for Lakewood residents.  If you are a Lakewood resident facing tough economic times, your neighbors want to help.  Families in need may apply any time of year for help with the emergency food pantry or for one-time utility bill payment assistance and scholarships for recreation programs.  Details on Project Shepherd's programs and eligibility information Spring Break Day Camp is next week There are still a few spots left for next week's Spring Break Day Camp for children ages 6-12 held Monday, April 6 through Friday, April 10 at Monte Verde Park. The program will provide supervised activities from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on a 1:12 staff-to-camper ratio. Programmed activities will include a variety of arts and crafts, outdoor sports, indoor games and specialized activities. The fees for camp will be $155 for Lakewood residents ($170 for non-residents) and will include an excursion to Boomers Park in Irvine on Wednesday, April 8.  Register online  and search with the keywords “spring break” or activity #32718 or call 562-866-9771, ext. 2408. Free Cerritos Library Access for BUSD Families Parents: Grab a $100/year Cerritos Library card FREE for your BUSD student—simple steps linked. Click Here The Cerritos Library offers Storytimes, family activities, cultural programs, and special classes for children and teens. Details about these events can be found in the latest issue of Cerritos Library News . 2026 Congressional Art Competition The 2026 Congressional Art Competition for high school students is officially underway! Congressman Robert Garcia is hosting his 4 th  annual contest this spring, and  submissions are  now open!  Please help us spread the word by sharing the provided information with your high school students.   All students attending a high school within  California’s 42nd Congressional District,  regardless of where they reside, are invited to participate. Students residing in the district but not attending school in CA-42 are also eligible.   This year’s deadline is Wednesday, April 8, 2026, by 11:59 p.m.  You can  view the form and the submission instructions here  — PDF and PNG flyers are also attached.   The winning artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol, and the winning artist will be invited to a reception in Washington, D.C., celebrating their work.   A note: you must have a free Google account to access the form.  Don’t have a Google account? Go to  accounts.google.com/signin  and click “ Create Account .”  It is also accessible via the QR code on the flyer (the QR is clickable on the PDF version). Cerritos Library Contests for Talented Teens The 27th Annual Teen Contests are free and open to all students with valid Cerritos Library cards and attending grades 7 through 12. All entries must be original. One entry per person is allowed for each category. Gift certificates to a bookstore will be presented to the winners at a reception in May. The contests are sponsored by the Friends of the Cerritos Library.  For more information, please call Pedro Orellana at (562) 916-1342, ext. 2416 Contests For Talented Teens Form Download 362.0 KB Grow & Give at ILC! Huge news, ILC Eagles! Fourth grader Caleb Holmes had a big dream: a school garden where we could grow together. As a true young entrepreneur, Caleb pitched his vision to Principal Platis, secured a grant, and turned that dream into reality! We are officially blooming with "Grow & Give at ILC!" Building Connections Through Writing Las Flores and Woodruff Elementary students are building meaningful connections through pen pal letters. This collaboration with another district school has strengthened communication skills, and made learning both relevant and enjoyable for our students. Woodruff Wolves Take the Stage Another phenomenal chorus show coordinated by Ronn Williams, Jennifer Huntington, and Stephanie Marker! Our Woodruff Wolves sang, danced, and acted in an entertaining performance all about the need for a vacation. Just in time for spring break! Happy Spring From Woodruff Elementary! Woodruff Wolves had a blast during the egg hunt, where some lucky finds included special tickets for prizes! A big thank you to our PTA for making this fun event possible. Albert Baxter 4th graders visit Cal state Fullerton Albert Baxter 4th graders just touched down at Cal State Fullerton….. and let’s just say, the campus wasn’t ready for this level of curiosity! The Junior A-G Breakfast was a huge success at BHS We welcomed 207 juniors for a morning full of encouragement, inspiration and fun! Students enjoyed a presentation, heard from an amazing panel of successful 12th graders, and wrapped it all up with a fun A-G Kahoot ✨🌟 a special thank you to  @basel_awad10  for creating & printing our stickers! Mayfair's Career Fair 2026! Mayfair’s Career Fair gave students a fun way to explore future careers through hands-on activities, games, and conversations with professionals from a variety of fields! Dr. Cassandra Villa visits Somerset Somerset had the honor of welcoming Dr. Cassandra Villa, who shared a powerful insight on turning dreams into plans and plans into reality. Thank you for empowering our students to think bigger and aim higher! Such a successful College & Career Fair at Somerset A successful College & Career Fair filled with inspiration and opportunity. Students gained valuable insight, explored new paths, and took meaningful steps toward their future. Thank you to everyone who made this day memorable ! School Board / Board Meeting Dates April 23, 2026 Board Meeting - 6:30 PM All Board of Education meetings are held in the Board Room of the District Administration Building, 16703 South Clark Avenue, Bellflower, CA 90706. Regular and Special Meetings are held at 6:00 PM on selected Thursdays, unless otherwise indicated below. Meetings Now Available on YouTube: @BellflowerUSD Board Meetings On Youtube Bellflower Unified is HIRING! If you have the skills to empower our team and students in shaping brighter futures, we invite you to apply to join BUSD! Some of the Available Openings: Elementary Principal - Esther Lindstrom Director of Student Support Services Director of Secondary Education Elementary Principal - Stephen Foster Elementary 🍎🍉Food & Nutrition Services🥦🥑 Food & Nutrition Services updates the menus monthly. April Menus Got ideas or feedback to make our newsletter even better? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop your suggestions in the comments below.  Click Here Instagram Facebook X (Twitter) Bellflower Unified School District https://www.busd.k12.ca.us/  

Friday, Apr 03 2026

BUSD News March 27, 2026

BUSD News BUSD News March 27, 2026 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  Not displaying correctly? View in browser     IMPORTANT: Please scroll to the bottom of the email thread, select “view entire message” to read and view the full newsletter Important Reminders: Reminder! There will be no school April 6th - 10th , 2026, for the Spring Break - School Closed.  School will resume on Monday, April 13, 2026. Lakewood Youth Hall of Fame event Congratulations to our Mayfair students honored at the Lakewood Youth Hall of Fame! Their hard work, leadership, and achievements make our school community proud. Congratulations Dr. Nancy Lopez Hernandez from Albert Baxter & Thomas Jefferson On Friday, March 13th, Assistant Principal Ms. Lopez-Hernandez successfully completed the defense of her dissertation at USC. This is an incredible professional and personal achievement, and a testament to her commitment to learning and growth. Congratulations, Dr./Dra. Lopez-Hernandez! We are so proud of you! Mayfair vs Downey JV Beach Volleyball - Mar 23, 2026 View pregame, live and post-game details from the Mayfair vs Downey California game on Mar 23, 2026 si.com Volleyball Game Preview: Warren Bears vs. Bellflower Buccaneers + How To Watch Volleyball Preview: Warren Bears vs. Bellflower Buccaneers maxpreps.com Volleyball Recap: Dominguez Takes a Loss + How To Watch Volleyball Recap: Dominguez Dons vs. Mayfair Monsoons maxpreps.com Mayfair Girls Wrestling team captured its first-ever CIF Northern Division Championship and was recognized by the Board of Education for their hard work, dedication, and trailblazing spirit. Proud is an understatement. Mayfair Boys Wrestling squad sent multiple athletes to CIF, with several punching their ticket to Masters — and their hard work was recognized by the Board of Education. Proud of every athlete who battled, represented, and raised the bar. School Board / Board Meeting Dates March 30, 2026 Special Board Meeting - 6:30 PM March 31, 2026 Special Board Meeting - 6:30 PM April 23, 2026 Board Meeting - 6:30 PM All Board of Education meetings are held in the Board Room of the District Administration Building, 16703 South Clark Avenue, Bellflower, CA 90706. Regular and Special Meetings are held at 6:00 PM on selected Thursdays, unless otherwise indicated below. Meetings Now Available on YouTube: @BellflowerUSD Board Meetings On Youtube Bellflower Noon Lions - Free Vision Screening & Recycled Glasses Bellflower Noon Lions are Sponsoring Free Vision Screening & Recycled Glasses All Ages Are Welcome - First Come, First Served - Come Early Saturday, March 28th, 2026 8:00 AM To 2:00 PM Calvary Baptist Church 14722 Clark Ave.. Bellflower Contact  Robert Wilson: ROBERT@EXPRESSAPPRAISAL.COM  (562) 201-3406 The vision screening is not intended to replace a comprehensive eye exam and refraction conducted by a doctor. Its purpose is to evaluate ocular health concerns and offer a functional pair of recycled eyeglasses as a temporary solution until professional care and prescribed materials are obtained.  Free Cerritos Library Access for BUSD Families Parents: Grab a $100/year Cerritos Library card FREE for your BUSD student—simple steps linked. Click Here The Cerritos Library offers Storytimes, family activities, cultural programs, and special classes for children and teens. Details about these events can be found in the latest issue of Cerritos Library News . 2026 Congressional Art Competition The 2026 Congressional Art Competition for high school students is officially underway! Congressman Robert Garcia is hosting his 4 th  annual contest this spring, and  submissions are  now open!  Please help us spread the word by sharing the provided information with your high school students.   All students attending a high school within  California’s 42nd Congressional District,  regardless of where they reside, are invited to participate. Students residing in the district but not attending school in CA-42 are also eligible.   This year’s deadline is Wednesday, April 8, 2026, by 11:59 p.m.  You can  view the form and the submission instructions here  — PDF and PNG flyers are also attached.   The winning artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol, and the winning artist will be invited to a reception in Washington, D.C., celebrating their work.   A note: you must have a free Google account to access the form.  Don’t have a Google account? Go to  accounts.google.com/signin  and click “ Create Account .”  It is also accessible via the QR code on the flyer (the QR is clickable on the PDF version). City of Bellflower LEAD LEAD is a year-round volunteer leadership initiative that provides meaningful opportunities to gain real-world experience and build professional skills! This program is now continuous, and only one application is needed per participant. Meetings will be held from 4:30–6:30 p.m. during the school year and 3:30–5:30 p.m. during the summer season.  Applicants must be current high school students. Apply today:  https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=ELvqDMKw-0-v7uYxCJak17qEgnbS9yZNhDk2V6Q2I21UM1dSSDlHOE5QQVlXMElKRlVCVEU2Q0hZSSQlQCN0PWcu Join Us for a Special Celebration at Las Flores! We invite our community to join us on OPEN HOUSE NIGHT, April 2 at 5:15 PM as we celebrate Las Flores Home Education Independent Study Academy receiving the Schools to Watch designation! This is a historic moment as we are the first school in BUSD to receive this honor. Open House classroom visitations will follow—come celebrate with us and see the amazing learning happening at Las Flores! We look forward to seeing you there!  Family STEM Night at Woodruff Elementary Woodruff Wolves had an exciting time at Family STEM Night, where students and families designed and built paper roller coasters with STEMNETICS! Hands-on learning, creativity, and collaboration were on full display as our Wolves explored engineering concepts in a fun and engaging way . Joy, comfort, and connection at Foster Elementary! Our students enjoyed a magical bubble party in the forest and came dressed in what makes them feel their best—because honoring sensory differences means creating spaces where everyone can truly be themselves. Here’s to embracing uniqueness, building understanding, and making every child feel seen, safe, and included.  Lindstrom’s Kindergarten visit Tanaka Farm Our Kindergarten Classes all enjoyed a fun trip to Tanaka Farm this week! They got to go on a hay ride, learn about all the food they grow on the farm, and the best part was picking their own strawberries. Craig William’s Modern Band at Music Unites the World Festival Modern Band had a busy and fun month of performances. Early this month they had their first performance outside the classroom in the Music Unites the World Festival. This week they performed, Snack Attack, with a Modern Band event. BMHS Honors World Down Syndrome Day BMHS staff and students showed their support by wearing blue and yellow. Welcome to the Mayfair Backyard BBQ Huge shoutout to our friends at Power 106  @power_106  for coming out and turning up the energy.   Keep up the great work, Monsoons – such a fun vibe all around!  Bellflower Unified is HIRING! If you have the skills to empower our team and students in shaping brighter futures, we invite you to apply to join BUSD! Some of the Available Openings: Speech/Language Pathology Assistant Bus Drivers Instructional Assistant Series & Avid Tutor Substitute Counselor 🍎🍉Food & Nutrition Services🥦🥑 Food & Nutrition Services updates the menus monthly. March Menus Got ideas or feedback to make our newsletter even better? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop your suggestions in the comments below.  Click Here Instagram Facebook X (Twitter) Bellflower Unified School District https://www.busd.k12.ca.us/  

Friday, Mar 27 2026

BUSD News March 20, 2026

BUSD News BUSD News March 20, 2026 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  Not displaying correctly? View in browser     IMPORTANT: Please scroll to the bottom of the email thread, select “view entire message” to read and view the full newsletter A Step Toward a Healthier Campus Bellflower Unified School District is pleased to announce that vape detectors have been installed and are now active in the bathrooms of both middle and high schools. This initiative aims to create a healthier environment for all students by discouraging vaping on campus, ultimately supporting better academic focus and well-being. Thank you for your cooperation in fostering a safe and positive school atmosphere! What's it like to attend Bellflower Unified School District? More than a school district- it’s a family. Our students share all the reasons they love BUSD. Congratulations to Superintendent Dr. Simon on Being Sworn in as President Elect of CAAASA! The Superintendent of Bellflower Unified School District was sworn in this week as the President Elect for the California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators (CAAASA). In addition to this prestigious appointment,  she presented and led two panel discussions at the association's conference , engaging with fellow educators and leaders in the field. Bellflower Unified School District Expands Career Exploration with zSpace AR/VR Laptop Lab in Mayfair High School SAN JOSE, Calif., March 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- zSpace, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZSPC), a leading provider of augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) solutions for education, today highlighted how Mayfair High School in Bellflower Unified School District is using immersive augmented and virtual reality laptops to expand access to career exploration and Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways. Through a dedicated zSpace lab managed by campus CTE Technology Technician Javier Beanes, students are gaining finance.yahoo.com Bellflower Unified School District Expands Career Exploration with zSpace AR/VR Laptop Lab in Mayfair High School SAN JOSE, Calif., March 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- zSpace, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZSPC), a leading provider of augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) so... markets.businessinsider.com Baseball Recap: Bellflower's Win Ends Three-Game Losing Streak on the Road Baseball Recap: Bellflower Buccaneers vs. Legend Titans maxpreps.com Free Cal South youth soccer clinic on March 28 As excitement builds for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, young Lakewood players have a chance to sharpen their soccer skills close to home.  Boys and girls ages 5 to 14 are invited to take part in a free Cal South youth soccer clinic on Saturday, March 28, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at San Martin Park. The clinic will be led by experienced coaches from Cal South (California State Soccer Association – South) and is a great opportunity for young players to build skills, have fun, and enjoy the game. Participants will also: Meet the Cal South mascot Receive a free T-shirt Enjoy giveaways and other activities Check-in begins at 9:30 a.m. Registration is required.  Sign up for the Soccer Clinic  now. San Martin Park is located at 5231 Ocana Ave. Cal South is a nonprofit soccer organization affiliated with U.S. Soccer that provides recreational and competitive opportunities for players of all ages throughout Southern California. 2026 Congressional Art Competition The 2026 Congressional Art Competition for high school students is officially underway! Congressman Robert Garcia is hosting his 4 th  annual contest this spring, and  submissions are  now open!  Please help us spread the word by sharing the provided information with your high school students.   All students attending a high school within  California’s 42nd Congressional District,  regardless of where they reside, are invited to participate. Students residing in the district but not attending school in CA-42 are also eligible.   This year’s deadline is Wednesday, April 8, 2026, by 11:59 p.m.  You can  view the form and the submission instructions here  — PDF and PNG flyers are also attached.   The winning artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol, and the winning artist will be invited to a reception in Washington, D.C., celebrating their work.   A note: you must have a free Google account to access the form.  Don’t have a Google account? Go to  accounts.google.com/signin  and click “ Create Account .”  It is also accessible via the QR code on the flyer (the QR is clickable on the PDF version). City of Bellflower LEAD LEAD is a year-round volunteer leadership initiative that provides meaningful opportunities to gain real-world experience and build professional skills! This program is now continuous, and only one application is needed per participant. Meetings will be held from 4:30–6:30 p.m. during the school year and 3:30–5:30 p.m. during the summer season.  Applicants must be current high school students. Apply today:  https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=ELvqDMKw-0-v7uYxCJak17qEgnbS9yZNhDk2V6Q2I21UM1dSSDlHOE5QQVlXMElKRlVCVEU2Q0hZSSQlQCN0PWcu Woodruff Celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with STEM and Fun! In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, Woodruff students wore green, searched for gold coins to trade in for prizes, and participated in engaging STEM activities. Students designed and built leprechaun traps, and explored math concepts using Lucky Charms and the colors of the rainbow. Celebrating Excellence at Woodruff Elementary We proudly celebrated our English Learners who met the high standards for reclassification. Congratulations to our outstanding Wolves on this incredible achievement! Foster Hosts First Unified Soccer Game History was made at Stephen Foster Elementary with their first Unified Soccer game, an unforgettable moment of inclusion, teamwork, and joy. Students celebrated every student, every ability, and the power of coming together as one community. So much fun is happening in Las Flores ELO classes! Students had a great time exploring their new Martial Arts and Jewelry Making classes. From building strength and focus to creating their own unique designs, it was a day full of hands-on learning and smiles. Kindergarten Leprechauns Mrs Ortega and Mrs. Scofield’s from Esther Lindstrom Elementary class enjoyed their St. Patrick’s Day Celebration.  Unified Kickball Game at BMHS Join us for an exciting Unified Kickball Game on Friday, March 27, 2026, as the Bellflower Buccaneers take on the Mayfair Monsoons at Bellflower High School! Festivities kick off at 11:30 AM, bringing together students, staff, and community members for a day filled with fun, friendship, and school spirit. Come cheer on both teams and celebrate inclusion through Unified Sports—where we play together and win together. Don’t miss this action-packed event! MMHS Students Want to design the future? Join the Art Academy on Wednesday, April 1st in the Steam Amphitheater to meet our guest speaker—a professional Graphic Designer! Learn how to combine art and digital design into an awesome career. We’ll be meeting during lunch and end during 8th period, so please make sure to get a permission slip from Rm 635 if you have a class. Come find out how to make your passion into an exciting career! Bellflower Unified is HIRING! If you have the skills to empower our team and students in shaping brighter futures, we invite you to apply to join BUSD! Some of the Available Openings: Substitute Counselor Bus Drivers Moderate Severe Special Ed Teacher Instructional Assistant Series & Avid Tutor School Board / Board Meeting Dates March 26, 2026 Board Meeting - 6:30 PM All Board of Education meetings are held in the Board Room of the District Administration Building, 16703 South Clark Avenue, Bellflower, CA 90706. Regular and Special Meetings are held at 6:00 PM on selected Thursdays, unless otherwise indicated below. Meetings Now Available on YouTube: @BellflowerUSD Board Meetings On Youtube 🍎🍉Food & Nutrition Services🥦🥑 Food & Nutrition Services updates the menus monthly. March Menus Got ideas or feedback to make our newsletter even better? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop your suggestions in the comments below.  Click Here Instagram Facebook X (Twitter) Bellflower Unified School District https://www.busd.k12.ca.us/  

Friday, Mar 20 2026

BUSD News February 20, 2026

BUSD News BUSD News February 20, 2026 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  Not displaying correctly? View in browser     Kindergarten is an important milestone in your child’s life marking the beginning of their formal education and a meaningful step toward lifelong learning, independence, and social development. We invite you and your child to visit our elementary school sites during our Transitional Kindergarten and Kindergarten Visitation Days. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to: Take a brief tour of the campus Observe TK and Kindergarten classrooms in session Meet the school principal and members of our team Transitional Kindergarten Students will turn 4 by September 1, 2026 Kindergarten Students will turn 5 by September 1, 2026 We look forward to welcoming your family and supporting you as you prepare for this exciting next step. Thomas Jefferson - Wednesday, Feb. 25, From: 9:30 - 10:00 am Intensive Learning Center - Thursday, Feb. 26, From: 8:30 - 9:30 am Esther Lindstrom -  Friday, Feb. 27, From: 9:00 - 10:00 am Stephen Foster -  Friday, Feb. 27, From 9:00 - 10:00 am Las Flores -  Tuesday, Mar. 3, From 8:45 - 9:45 am Frank E. Woodruff -  Wednesday, Mar. 4, From 9:00 - 10:00 am Albert Baxter -    Thursday, Mar. 5, From: 9:30 - 10:30 am Ernie Pyle -  Thursday, Mar 5, From: 9:30 - 10:30 am Ramona -  Thursday, Mar 5, From: 9:30 - 10:30 am Craig Williams -  Friday, Mar. 6, From: 8:45 - 9:45 am Washington - Friday, Mar. 6, From: 9:30 - 10:30 am Don't miss Bellflower Unified's 2nd annual Career Expo & Resource Fair! This is your chance to explore job opportunities in our district. You can apply on-site and even interview for positions the same day! Share with a family member, friend, recent college grad, or neighbor!  Saturday, February 21, 2026 Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Bellflower Middle High School - 15301 McNab Ave. Bellflower, CA 90706 (inside the gym) You can apply, take tests, and have interviews on-site for many Bellflower Unified School District (BUSD) jobs. Some of these jobs include: Bus Driver Credential Analyst Electronic Repair Technician Instructional Assistant Series & Avid Tutor Occupational Therapist Substitute Counselor Moderate Severe Special Ed Teacher + MORE February 19, 2026 First Reading Of New Board Policy 1445: Response to Immigration Enforcement Bellflower USD is updating its Response to Immigration Enforcement policy to comply with AB 495 (2025) and the California Attorney General’s model guidance by March 1, 2026. The new Board Policy 1445 consolidates and expands previous rules to better protect the rights and privacy of students, families, and employees during any immigration-related inquiries or actions.  https://simbli.eboardsolutions.com/Meetings/Attachment.aspx?S=36030522&AID=1406534&MID=50788 Administrative Regulation: Response to Immigration Enforcement  https://simbli.eboardsolutions.com/Meetings/Attachment.aspx?S=36030522&AID=1406521&MID=50788 PBK Architects Presents Facilities Master Plan  Bellflower Unified School District is currently engaged in a comprehensive effort to create a new Facilities Master Plan for 2025-2035. The 2025-2035 FMP will identify the need for new schools, describe modernization and renovation projects, and ensure that students, educators, and the Bellflower Community will have a road map to informed investments to school facilities for the next decade and will align with the needs of Proposition 2. https://simbli.eboardsolutions.com/Meetings/Attachment.aspx?S=36030522&AID=1406485&MID=50788 Chief Business Officer Renee Arkus presented the Multi-Year Projection (MYP) for Bellflower Unified School District  https://simbli.eboardsolutions.com/Meetings/Attachment.aspx?S=36030522&AID=1416434&MID=50788 AVID Strategic Implementation Roadmap: 2025-2026 presented by Washington Elementary and Bellflower Middle & High School https://simbli.eboardsolutions.com/Meetings/Attachment.aspx?S=36030522&AID=1406488&MID=50788 School Board / Board Meeting Dates February 26, 2026 Board Meeting  - 6:30 PM All Board of Education meetings are held in the Board Room of the District Administration Building, 16703 South Clark Avenue, Bellflower, CA 90706. Regular and Special Meetings are held at 6:00 PM on selected Thursdays, unless otherwise indicated below. Meetings Now Available on YouTube: @BellflowerUSD Board Meetings On Youtube #BUSDFutureReady Bellflower USD’s first-ever College & Career Expo! So proud to see our students and families come together to explore the many pathways their future can take—college, careers, trades, military, and more. Here’s to big dreams, bold goals, and bright futures for all our BUSD students.  Schools annually update their School Accountability Report Card (SARC) by February 1. You can access your school site’s report card on the BUSD  website . You may also request a copy at the school site or at the district office, and it will be provided upon request.  Students ride FREE with a Metro GoPass! We are pleased to offer GoPass to our students in the Bellflower Unified School District. The GoPass program is a partnership with Metro to provide FREE access to Metro buses and trains anywhere, anytime. The information below tells you how to get your GoPass TAP card and activate it. Pick up a GoPass TAP card from your participating school. Activate your new  GoPass online  or by calling 866.TAPTOGO Wait 4 hours for your card to be activated. Once active, ride on Metro and participating partner agencies for free Take a photo of the back of your GoPass TAP card in case it is lost or stolen. You can contact your school administration to request a replacement card, then activate it. Download TAP App More information:  https://www.busd.k12.ca.us/resources/students/go-pass-for-students Kenny Washington Memorial Scholarship Los Angeles Rams Kenny Washington Memorial Scholarship Los Angeles Rams  Eligibility:  2.0 GPA Graduating from high school in Spring 2026  Planning to attend a 4-year or 2-year college in Fall 2026 Must be eligible to apply for the FAFSA (U.S Citizen, permanent resident, eligible non-citizen, T-Visa holder) or CA Dream Act (undocumented students, valid or expired DACA, U-Visa holders, Temporary Protected Status) Priority will be given to those who are first-generation college students Kenny Washington Memorial Scholarship Los Angeles Rams Woodruff Elementary: Learning Beyond the Classroom Woodruff’s 4–6 Grade Extended Support Program had an exciting opportunity to explore the wonders of marine life at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Our 4th graders also expanded their knowledge of California history during their visit to Irvine Regional Park, where they learned about significant historical events and the early development of our region. These learning opportunities continue to enrich our students’ academic growth and bring learning to life beyond the classroom. Woodruff Elementary's Sweetheart Dance Woodruff Wolves traveled back in time during our 50s-themed Sweetheart Dance! From poodle skirts to slicked-back hair, our students had a blast celebrating in true retro style. A huge thank you to our amazing PTA for the awesome decorations, fun activities, and for creating such a memorable evening for our school community. 5th grade Wax Museum at Stephen Foster Our BOLTS brought history to life as they stepped into the shoes of influential figures from the past. From scientists to leaders, their hard work, creativity and confidence truly shined today!  Mayfair Wrestling’s first ever girls CIF Championship It’s been a long time coming, but the Lady Monsoons, after a dominant showing, finally bring home the gold! Introducing the 2026 CiF Southern Section Northern Division Champions! Mayfair Wrestling’s first ever girls CIF Championship. A testament to the discipline, dedication, hard work and sacrifice of our girls program. Congratulations to all the coaches and families. Time to hang another banner and get those rings! Bellflower Unified is HIRING! If you have the skills to empower our team and students in shaping brighter futures, we invite you to apply to join BUSD! Some of the Available Openings: Substitute Counselor Moderate Severe Special Ed Teacher Bus Driver Instructional Assistant Series & Avid Tutor 🍎🍉Food & Nutrition Services🥦🥑 Food & Nutrition Services updates the menus monthly. February Menus Got ideas or feedback to make our newsletter even better? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop your suggestions in the comments below.  Click Here Instagram Facebook X (Twitter) Bellflower Unified School District https://www.busd.k12.ca.us/  

Saturday, Feb 21 2026

BUSD News February 6, 2026

BUSD News BUSD News February 6, 2026 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  Not displaying correctly? View in browser     IMPORTANT: Please scroll to the bottom of the email thread, select “view entire message” to read and view the full newsletter  Honoring the start of Black History Month, Bellflower Unified School District stands in deep gratitude for the Black leaders, scholars, and trailblazers whose courage fuels today’s ongoing fight for equity and justice. We reflect on Black history not just to look back, but to move forward with purpose and intention. This year, we were proud to kick off Black History Month with an incredible guest speaker: former NBA and Los Angeles Lakers player Brian Cook at Ramona Elementary. ALL BUSD Students and Families - Please save the date   (Feb 11, 2026)  for the First EVER upcoming College and Career Expo. Whether you’re considering college, university, technical training, or entering the workforce, this event will offer valuable resources to help you take the next step.  Connect with admissions representatives, BUSD counselors, and industry professionals who are here to provide support as you plan for your future.  Date: February 11, 2026 Time: 6:00 PM  Where: Bellflower High School Campus (15301 S. McNab Ave., Bellflower, CA, 90706) Shuttle services will be provided for district families who live further distances from Bellflower Middle and High School.  More information is available on the BUSD Career and Expo webpage. https://www.busd.k12.ca.us/departments/educationalservices/secondary-education/college-career-expo Runs continuously every 15–20 minutes 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM Pickup & drop-off: Front of each school campus First pickup: 5:45 PM at Mayfair High School *Shuttle bus arrival times may vary slightly; times are approximate (please note the time change *9AM) Don't miss Bellflower Unified's 2nd annual Career Expo & Resource Fair! This is your chance to explore job opportunities in our district. You can apply on-site and even interview for positions the same day! Share with a family member, friend, recent college grad, or neighbor!  Saturday, February 21, 2026 Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Bellflower Middle High School - 15301 McNab Ave. Bellflower, CA 90706 (inside the gym) You can apply, take tests, and have interviews on-site for many Bellflower Unified School District (BUSD) jobs. Some of these jobs include: Bus Driver Credential Analyst Electronic Repair Technician Instructional Assistant Series & Avid Tutor Occupational Therapist Substitute Counselor Moderate Severe Special Ed Teacher + MORE Get to know Albert Baxter Elementary School Students at Albert Baxter Elementary School are excited to welcome new families into their school community and share all that they have to offer and why they love their school.  Happy National School Counseling Week, BUSD Today, we honor the beating heart of our schools — our school counselors. Every day, you: - Open new worlds of possibility, one conversation at a time - Help students dream, plan, and pursue their futures - Change the trajectory of entire families, especially our first‑generation college students - Offer wisdom, compassion, and unwavering support So much of this critical work goes unseen, but it never goes unfelt. Millions of students across the country wouldn’t be the same without you — and neither would we. To our counselors: thank you. Please never forget the impact you make, every single day. Schools annually update their School Accountability Report Card (SARC) by February 1. You can access your school site’s report card on the BUSD  website . You may also request a copy at the school site or at the district office, and it will be provided upon request.  Football Claims Nation's Fifth Best FCS Recruiting Class; Welcomes 23 Aggies To Shredville - UC Davis Athletics With yet another deep run in the NCAA Division I Football Championships behind them, UC Davis football sets its sights on the next chapter of Aggie football, doing that by welcoming the fifth-best Football Championship Subdivision recruiting class in the nation to "California's College Town" with 23 new Aggies making up the most recent incoming class ahead of the 2026 season. 16 signed Aggies make up a true freshman class that looks to build its own foundation and legacy over the coming seasons, while eight Aggies come to Davis as transfers. Three Aggie transfers come from the Football Bowl Subdivision level, two enter from FCS programs while two more make the transition from the junior college level, rounding out a class that measures up as one of the best in the country. ucdavisaggies.com Press-Telegram boys basketball Top 10: St. John Bosco stays at No. 1 St. John Bosco, La Mirada and Millikan lead the teams in the Press-Telegram Top 10 boys basketball rankings going into the final days of the regular season. presstelegram.com #ICYMI Financial Aid 101 Join us for an informative presentation designed to help parents and students understand the financial aid process. Learn about scholarships, grants, loans, FAFSA, and the California Dream Act, as well as tips for maximizing aid eligibility and avoiding common mistakes. Where: Virtual Bellflower Unified YouTube Channel Upcoming Events Join us for Webinar Wednesdays! All Virtual Offerings beginning Spring 2026. These presentations will be recorded. 3/4/2026 Career Exploration & Course Planning This presentation will help parents and students learn about the foundations of career exploration, including how to support students' assessment of their strengths. Learn about different CTE pathways and course options at both Secondary schools as students register for classes and meet with their School Counselors. YouTube - @BellflowerUSD Time: 7:00 PM PST 5/13/2026 Supporting Transitions in Education Is your student preparing to move from elementary to secondary school? Graduate and move on to college? Whatever your next step, join the BUSD Future Ready Team as we discuss ways to make these transitions as smooth as possible. Learn about what to expect academically and socially. YouTube - @BellflowerUSD Time: 7:00 PM PST Your input is valuable! Please help us improve the services, programs, and support for BUSD by completing a survey regarding school climate, student behavior and attitudes, and school programs and policies.  Our BUSD community will be invited to take a survey related to their respective group. Parents/guardians are invited to take the California Parent Survey  Staff are invited to take the California School Staff Survey Students in grades 5, 7, 9, and 11 will take the California Healthy Kids Survey Together, these surveys form the California School Climate, Health, and Learning Survey (Cal-SCHLS) System that is developed for and supported by the California Department of Education. These surveys provide schools and districts with information about the learning and teaching environment, the health and well-being of students, and support for parents, school staff, and students that promote learning and school success. The surveys are confidential and anonymous. Every school has its own unique URL, so please be on the lookout for the links from your school. The survey opens on  Monday, February 2,  and closes on  Friday, February 20. Thank you in advance!  Apply for the Pan Am Association Scholarship Program by March 6 The Lakewood Pan American Association's annual scholarship program is accepting applications to help high school seniors living in Lakewood pay future college or trade school costs. Scholarships will be awarded in the range of $750 to $2,000. High school seniors are eligible to apply if they: Reside in Lakewood (2 years or longer). Attend any public or private school in Lakewood or the surrounding area. Are enrolled at any accredited college, university or trade school for the Fall 2026 term. Are active in the community and at school (not restricted to Lakewood). Submit three letters of recommendation from employer, clergy, teacher or school counselor. Submit an essay of no more than 300 words. The theme for the 2026 scholarship essay is “What does it mean to belong? Describe a place where you feel you belong and why." Completed applications must be submitted online by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 6.  Open the application for the Pan Am Association Scholarship. This year, the Lakewood Pan American Association celebrates 80 years of providing diverse cultural and educational opportunities for residents of Lakewood. Learn more about the  Lakewood Pan American Association ’s history and programs. Paralympian, Disability Rights Advocate, and Author Visits ILC For three days, Mr. Brent Poppen -- a bronze-medal Paralympian, disability rights advocate, and author -- led assemblies for all grade levels and visited all 28 of our classrooms, cultivating understanding, empathy, and appreciation among our students. The "buzz" on our campus was tangible, palpable, and undeniable during his visit! 100 Days Smarter — ILC Eagles Soar! Our ILC Eagles celebrated the 100th day of school! Teachers and students dressed up as 100-year-olds, and classrooms enjoyed fun activities centered around the number 100. 100 Days of School Celebration at Woodruff! Woodruff Elementary celebrated 100 days of school with dress-up fun, engaging activities, and special awards honoring students with perfect attendance! We’re so proud of our Wolves and excited for all that’s still ahead! In Appreciation of Mrs. Martinez at Woodruff! In honor of Counselor Appreciation Week, Woodruff would like to give a big shout-out to our amazing counselor, Mrs. Martinez! Thank you for your kindness, patience, and unwavering support of our students, families, and staff. We are so grateful for all you do to support our Woodruff community. This National School Counseling Week, Baxter Celebrates This National School Counseling Week, we want to take a moment to thank Ms. Hernandez for all her hard work and dedication to our students, staff, and our school. She works tirelessly to support our Baxter students’ social and emotional well-being, guiding them through a difficult day and acknowledging their success at school. Lunch with the Principals was a hit at Foster! It was so nice to connect, listen to music, and play round after round of “Would you rather?” with our bolts! See? Coming to school has its perks! Be on the lookout for the next attendance incentive! Parent-Led Enrichment Day Fun at Las Flores Mrs. Chang’s 3rd- and 4th-graders had an absolute blast exploring and learning during a special activity led by our amazing parent, Mrs. Alvarado! Thank you, Mrs. Alvarado, for sharing your time, energy, and creativity with our Leopards—it was a memorable day full of laughter, learning, and fun! 🌟 Q & U Wedding at Lindstrom Mrs. Ashton’s TK class cordially invites you to join them in the union of Q & U. Thank you to all of our students and parents who attended this fun union! 101 Dalmatians at Lindstrom Dr. Robinson’s TK Class celebrated the 101st Day of school with a 101 Dalmatian celebration!  Fun starts at BMHS lunch! Catch the College & Career Center in front of ASB during MS & HS lunch on select dates for friendship bracelet making, Gold Coin scavenger hunt, Easter Bunny photos 🐰📸, and unforgettable memories!  African American Jazz & Blues Renaissance Night at MHS Families are invited to join Mayfair Middle/High School for our African American Jazz & Blues Renaissance Night on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. in front of the STEAM Building, featuring live music, organizations selling food items, PTA participation, and a welcoming atmosphere to celebrate and enjoy our Mayfair community. Students ride FREE with a Metro GoPass! Pick up your GoPass at Somerset's front office and ride all year!  Bellflower Unified is HIRING! If you have the skills to empower our team and students in shaping brighter futures, we invite you to apply to join BUSD! Some of the Available Openings: Electronic Repair Technician Occupational Therapist Speech/Language Pathology Assistant Moderate Severe Special Ed Teacher 🍎🍉Food & Nutrition Services🥦🥑 Food & Nutrition Services updates the menus monthly. February Menus School Board / Board Meeting Dates February 19, 2026  Special Board Meeting -  6:30 PM February 26, 2026 Board Meeting  - 6:30 PM All Board of Education meetings are held in the Board Room of the District Administration Building, 16703 South Clark Avenue, Bellflower, CA 90706. Regular and Special Meetings are held at 6:00 PM on selected Thursdays, unless otherwise indicated below. Meetings Now Available on YouTube: @BellflowerUSD Board Meetings On Youtube Got ideas or feedback to make our newsletter even better? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop your suggestions in the comments below.  Click Here Instagram Facebook X (Twitter) Bellflower Unified School District https://www.busd.k12.ca.us/  

Saturday, Feb 07 2026

BUSD News January 23, 2026

BUSD News BUSD News January 23, 2026 ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌ ‌  Not displaying correctly? View in browser     You’re invited! We are excited to introduce our first-ever ELEMENTARY Showcase, designed specifically for new families navigating enrollment in Preschool (age 3), TK, and Kindergarten. Join us to discover what makes our elementary schools exceptional and receive step-by-step guidance for a smooth start! Saturday, January 24, 2026 9:00 AM–11:00 AM Stephen Foster Elementary 5223 E. Bigelow St., Lakewood, CA 90712 FREE event! New families and students—welcome! 🎉 What to expect: Meet and greet with Rams NFL Cheerleaders. Come support our hometown team as they face the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday Explore school programs ✨ Meet principals & teachers 👋 Learn about the enrollment process 📝 Attend FREE parent workshops 🧩 Enjoy refreshments & activities 🧃 Cheer on student performances 🎶 Register now -  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd9sugwC0ZQPvr9tmWRSX0-xtUvmMci8SkY-QSHQShV7i1KGw/viewform?usp=send_form Fiscal Services Review Presentation At the recent Board of Education meeting, School Services of California Inc. (SSC) presented the results of a Fiscal Services Functional Review for Bellflower Unified School District. The review examined the District’s fiscal policies and procedures, staff training and cross-training, and key functions such as accounts payable/receivable, payroll and benefits, purchasing, and budget. SSC also analyzed comparative staffing to determine whether current staffing levels are equitable and aligned with similar districts. Fiscal Services Review Presentation.pdf Download 462.2 KB School Board / Board Meeting Dates February 19, 2026  Special Board Meeting -  6:30 PM February 26, 2026 Board Meeting  - 6:30 PM All Board of Education meetings are held in the Board Room of the District Administration Building, 16703 South Clark Avenue, Bellflower, CA 90706. Regular and Special Meetings are held at 6:00 PM on selected Thursdays, unless otherwise indicated below. Meetings Now Available on YouTube: @BellflowerUSD Board Meetings On Youtube Basketball Recap: Bellflower Picks Up Third Consecutive Victory Basketball Recap: Bellflower Buccaneers vs. Malibu Sharks maxpreps.com AVID Students Experience College Life at UCLA Principal Sam Platis from the Intensive Learning Center and Mr. Davis took students to UCLA for the “I’m Going to College” event as part of the AVID College and Career Readiness program. Students toured the campus, learned about college opportunities, and then attended a UCLA women’s basketball game, getting a firsthand look at life as a college student. Feel Good Friday Vibes at Ramona On Feel Fab Fridays, Ramona staff come together before school to warmly welcome students and families as they arrive on campus. With smiles, greetings, high-fives, music, and positive energy, staff help start the day on a joyful and connected note. Sprinkling Kindness Throughout Woodruff Elementary Over this last week, our Woodruff Wolves enjoyed an exciting assembly where they watched cool BMX tricks while reflecting on the importance of anti-bullying and kindness. In addition, during our monthly Wolf Den activity, students created a Chain of Kindness, with each Wolf designing a link to express how kindness can be spread throughout our school and beyond. When linked together, it is a reflection of how small acts of kindness truly can make a significant impact. Lindy Lions “Dream. Believe. Build” Congratulations to our Lindy Lions who were recognized by the city of Lakewood for their winning submissions in the “Dream. Believe. Build” contest in honoring the life and celebrations of Martin Luther King Jr. Day! We are so proud of you! You both ROAR! 🦁 💙 Congratulations to Mimi Cannizzaro Mayfair’s Teacher of the Year! Congratulations to Mimi Cannizzaro, Mayfair Middle/High School’s 2025–2026 Teacher of the Year! Mimi exemplifies the very best of Mayfair and is a truly deserving honoree. An exemplary educator and a positive, solution-oriented member of our Special Education team, Mrs. Cannizzaro cares deeply about every student on campus—whether or not they are currently in her class—welcoming them for tutoring, reacquainting herself with their current curriculum, and advocating tirelessly for their success. She teaches bell-to-bell with purpose, delivering challenging, thoughtfully modified lessons that prepare students for their next academic steps. At the same time, her compassionate and friendly approach creates a classroom where students feel supported and inspired. This year, she embraced the challenge of co-teaching with outstanding results, earning the respect of students and colleagues alike as she consistently checks for understanding and ensures students remain engaged and successful. Her specialized teaching strategies benefit all learners, her advocacy reflects her unwavering belief in students’ potential, and her positive energy elevates everyone around her. Mimi’s students leave her classroom stronger in math, more confident, and better prepared for the future—there is truly no one more deserving of this honor. College & Career Readiness Future Ready Future Ready is an initiative of Bellflower Unified School District’s Secondary Education Department supporting College & Career Readiness District-wide. Together, we aim to make information accessible as we partner in supporting students as they plan for their futures. Upcoming Events Join us for Webinar Wednesdays! All Virtual Offerings beginning Spring 2026. These presentations will be recorded. 1/28/2026 Financial Aid 101 Join us for an informative presentation designed to help parents and students understand the financial aid process. Learn about scholarships, grants, loans, FAFSA, and the California Dream Act, as well as tips for maximizing aid eligibility and avoiding common mistakes. Where:  Virtual Bellflower Unified YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@BellflowerUSD Time: 7:00 PM PST 1st Annual Bellflower USD College and Career Fair BUSD Students and Families - Please save the date for the First EVER College and Career Expo on Feb. 11, 2026. Whether you’re considering college, university, technical training, or entering the workforce, this event will offer valuable resources to help you take the next step. Connect with admissions representatives, BUSD counselors, and industry professionals who are here to provide support as you plan for your future. Date: February 11, 2026 Location: Bellflower High School Campus Time: 6 pm Bravo Awards $500 Scholarship Each year, the City of Bellflower has a $500 scholarship essay contest for high school seniors that reside in the City of Bellflower. The subject is, “What can residents do to make their community a safe place to live?” Recipients of the scholarship also get to attend the BRAVO Awards ceremony. Seniors residing in Bellflower will receive information about this opportunity from their government teacher. Essays must be limited to two double-spaced pages and are due to teachers by Friday, January 23, 2026. This is an excellent opportunity for our students, as two BUSD students will receive this scholarship. Bellflower Unified is HIRING! If you have the skills to empower our team and students in shaping brighter futures, we invite you to apply to join BUSD! Some of the Available Openings: Bus Drivers Instructional Assistant Series & Avid Tutor 🍎🍉Food & Nutrition Services🥦🥑 Food & Nutrition Services updates the menus monthly. January Menus Got ideas or feedback to make our newsletter even better? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop your suggestions in the comments below.  Click Here Instagram Facebook X (Twitter) Bellflower Unified School District https://www.busd.k12.ca.us/  

Friday, Jan 23 2026