SLCUSD Family Communication

​ ​ Family Communication News and Updates from the Superintendent's Office ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Superintendent's Update Dr. Eric Prater ​ ​ ​ ​ Budget Update and Reflections ​ I want to take a moment to address the concerns many of you have expressed regarding the recent discussions surrounding potential budget reductions, particularly the impact on our beloved Transitional Kindergarten (TK) program. I understand that the conversation at the last Board meeting left many of you feeling upset, anxious, and uncertain about the future. Please know that your concerns have been heard, and I deeply apologize for the distress this situation has caused. In reflecting on the way the potential cuts were presented, I acknowledge that we could have communicated these difficult discussions more thoughtfully. I understand the emotional and practical impact that any changes, especially to the TK program, may have on our families, staff, and community. The TK program is a vital part of our early education system, and I share your commitment to ensuring its continued success. That said, I am encouraged to report that the district's TK team, working collaboratively with my office and the San Luis Coastal Teachers Association (SLCTA), came together to explore creative solutions that will allow us to keep the TK program intact in the 2025-26 school year and beyond. We will continue to pursue state and local funding while working proactively with our elected leaders. I have been in communication with Assemblymember Dawn Addis, who has committed to working with us, along with other Basic Aid districts in California, to find an innovative solution to current policy. ​ ​ ​ ​ I would like to express my appreciation for the dedication and willingness of the TK team to engage in this work, along with their collaborative spirit. We had promising discussions about finding cost-effective solutions that preserve the heart of the program and assist us in lessening the impacts on K-12 programming. Additionally, our partners in the early childhood education community have offered resources and support to help us in this effort. We feel that we can contain costs and keep the program aligned to its current model. I am confident we will maintain this valuable educational opportunity for our children. We still have to confront a sizable budget deficit in San Luis Coastal. We recognize that these proposed reductions affect not only our students but also the hardworking professionals who provide critical support to our schools. Our goal is to meet our budget reduction targets while minimizing negative impacts on teaching and learning. We will work diligently to ensure that we continue to prioritize the needs of our students, staff, and community throughout this process. I also want to share with you that we will present a formal and detailed reduction list for Board discussion (not action) at the upcoming Board meeting on February 4, 2025. On February 18, 2025, the Board will be asked to take formal action in order to address the structural deficit that we are facing in San Luis Coastal. I greatly appreciate and value all of the engagement, feedback, and concern that our community has shared with us during this time. We are listening, and we will continue to work hard to find solutions that balance our fiscal responsibility with our commitment to providing an exceptional education for all students. Thank you for your understanding, support, and dedication to our students and community. ​ ​ ​ ​ Community Forum on Immigration: A Moment of Support and Solidarity ​ On January 16, 2025, we hosted a powerful Community Forum on Immigration at Pacheco Elementary School, where hundreds of concerned families gathered to discuss the current and future changes in immigration policies. The forum provided vital information and resources, helping our families navigate the complexities of immigration issues that are affecting many of our students and their families. It is an undeniably frightening and uncertain time for many in our community, and we want all San Luis Coastal families to know that our schools remain a safe haven for your children. We are committed to ensuring that every student feels welcome, valued, and supported during these challenging times. A special thank you goes out to Principal Marcelo Huizar and former San Luis Coastal leader Rick Mayfield, whose leadership and dedication made this event possible. I also want to extend our gratitude to all the presenters who generously shared their time and expertise to provide clarity, support, and resources to our families. We recognize the immense challenges that many of our families are facing, and we will continue to do everything we can to support you through this difficult period. Our commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment for all students remains steadfast. Thank you for being part of the San Luis Coastal community. We are here for you. Sincerely, Eric ​ ​ ​ ​ Educational Services Lisa Yamashita, Assistant Superintendent ​ ​ ​ ​ California Dashboard - State Indicators Board Presentation ​ During the most recent Board meeting, district representatives shared an overview of the 2024 State Indicators that were released in December. The presentation contained detailed information outlining the status level for each of the seven state measures. The last slide within the presentation contains additional resources for members of the public who wish to learn more. ​ ​ ​ ​ Leading Equitable Schools ​ This week our middle schools hosted their respective high school Site Equity teams for training sessions with the University of Washington Leading Equitable Schools Program as part of the Equity Action Plan.  The training focused on school culture and students’ sense of belonging at school, as viewed through student perspectives via interviews, discussions and culture walks throughout each middle school.  This is a follow up session that reciprocates a training earlier in the year when the high schools hosted the middle schools’ teams.  Both days were filled with deep reflection and rich conversations about current and possible future practices and policies that may or may not be contributing to students’ feeling of belonging and how to increase that as a part of a powerfully inclusive school culture. ​ ​ ​ ​ Middle School Programs and the "Grow Teach" Parent Initiative Board Presentation ​ This past Tuesday at the board meeting, Mrs. Yamashita shared the history of how the Grow Teach Parent Initiative began earlier this school year. The Board had the opportunity to hear from our middle school principals and staff regarding current programs and initiatives to support students in the middle grades. Additionally, the Board heard from the Grow Teach Parent Initiative representatives to better understand their interest in expanding Teach Elementary to include 7th and 8th grades. Heather Contreras, Principal of Los Osos Middle School, and Vanessa Parsons, Assistant Principal of Los Osos Middle School, presented an update on the recent developments and initiatives at Los Osos Middle School. Nathan Meinert, Principal of Laguna Middle School also provided an update on Laguna Middle School. These presentations highlighted key initiatives and the academic rigor at both schools. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Opera SLO's production of The Wizard of Oz ​ Students of all ages are invited to audition for Opera SLO's production of The Wizard of Oz! Opera San Luis Obispo will produce the region's first GRAND PRODUCTION of the 1939 movie version of The Wizard of Oz on May 17-18, 2025 at Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo. This production will feature a large full orchestra, expansive two-story sets, vivid costumes, and all the songs you remember from the movie! SAN LUIS OBISPO AUDITIONS: Saturday, January 25 / 2PM SLO Methodist Church on Fredericks Ave. NORTH COUNTY AUDITIONS: Sunday, January 26 / 2PM Community Church of Atascadero Please see the flyer for audition requirements and rehearsal timeline. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Celebrate National Science Fiction Day with SLCUSD Libraries ​ Join us in celebrating National Science Fiction Day in our school libraries! Science fiction engages with futuristic concepts like space exploration, advanced science and technology, time travel, parallel universes, and extraterrestrial life. Reading science fiction often inspires children and teens to learn more about science and technology and to consider ways to improve the future for humanity and our planet. Please watch this short video for a few excellent science fiction recommendations by Mrs. Spoeneman, Teach Elementary Librarian, and encourage your students to check out the amazing science fiction books (and any other genres they love) in their own school library this month. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ San Luis Obispo FFA's Famous Drive-Thru Tri-Tip BBQ ​ The only drive-thru in SLO is back! Ticket sales are open today for San Luis Obispo FFA's famous Drive-Thru Tri-Tip BBQ.  Dinner includes a whole tri-tip, beans, salad, and a full loaf of buttery garlic bread delivered right to your car! This delicious dinner feeds 4-6 people and all proceeds benefit the SLO FFA Program, students, and Ag Department. Purchase a dinner for yourself, as a gift for a friend, or donate to a family in need on our website. No need to print out a ticket - recipient's name will be on our will-call list at pick-up.  You can pick up your dinner January 23rd between 4:00 - 6:00 pm at the Adult School/Taylor Field off Lizzie Street. Buy now because ticket sales close on January 21st at 10 pm. **Mention your favorite FFA STUDENT in the 'comments' section at check out for students to receive their FFA credits.** ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Business Services Ryan Pinkerton, Assistant Superintendent ​ ​ ​ ​ SLCUSD Family U-Pick ​ Join us next Saturday (1/25) from 9am-12pm at Cal Poly Farm for an SLCUSD Family U-Pick Event! We’re picking citrus and the first pound is free for all SLCUSD students, staff, and families (additional fruit is $2.50/lb). Directions and more information can be found here. ​ ​ ​ ​ Human Resources Dr. Greg Puccia, Assistant Superintendent ​ ​ ​ ​ District Receives Recognition ​ San Luis Coastal USD was recognized by the California School Personnel Commision Association (CSPCA) for Excellence in Innovative Solutions. The following is from the CSPCA award letter: The California School Personnel Commission Association (CSPCA) is proud to announce that San Luis Coastal Unified School District (SLCUSD), is the recipient of the prestigious CSPCA Innovation Award for Excellence in Innovative Solutions for the 2025 school year.  This distinguished honor is awarded to educational agencies who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and creativity in implementing innovative solutions that enhance educational services, equity, inclusion and exceptional implementation of the Merit System values. San Luis Coastal’s tireless dedication and visionary approach to improving educational outcomes for students, staff, and the community at large have earned this recognition as a leader in the Merit system and in education as a whole. This award is a testament to the countless hours of dedication by the SLCUSD HR Team, with Rachel Robinson-Vang leading the charge under the guidance of the SLCUSD Board of Education and Personnel Commission. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the CSEA and SEIU leadership and members for their invaluable partnership in this effort. Together, we successfully updated nearly every job classification district-wide and secured a total of $550K in pay increases for many of our dedicated classified staff. ​ ​

Saturday, Jan 18 2025

SLCUSD Board Meeting Agenda

Regular Board Meeting Agenda Tuesday, January 14, 2025 ******************************************** CLOSED SESSION - 4:30 p.m. OPEN SESSION - 6:00 p.m. ******************************************** VIA Teleconference & District Office Complex 1500 Lizzie Street - Room J2 San Luis Obispo, CA ******************************************* Zoom link will be available on the day of the meeting. *******************************************

Saturday, Jan 11 2025

Important Community and Staff Forums on Budget Chall...

Dear San Luis Coastal Community, As mentioned in my December 18 communication, we are hosting important employee and community meetings to address the budget challenges our district is currently facing. These sessions will provide essential information, allow us to share our recommendations, and create an opportunity for staff and the community to voice concerns and offer feedback. Meeting Details: San Luis Obispo Meeting Date:  Wednesday, January 15, 2025 Staff Forum:  4:30–5:30 PM Community Forum:  6:00–7:00 PM Location:  District Office, 1500 Lizzie Street, Room J2, San Luis Obispo Coastal Meeting Date:  Wednesday, January 22, 2025 Staff Forum:  4:30–5:30 PM Community Forum:  6:00–7:00 PM Location:  Morro Bay High School Theater, 235 Atascadero Rd, Morro Bay Spanish translation will be provided at both sessions. We value your participation and hope to see you at one of these important meetings. Dr. Eric Prater Superintendent

Wednesday, Jan 08 2025

SLCUSD Board Meeting Agenda

Regular Meeting - Study Session Agenda Thursday, January 9, 2025 ***************************** 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Open Session VIA TELECONFERENCE & District Office 1500 Lizzie Street - B3 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 and 835 Main Avenue, Suite 215 Durango CO 81301 ***************************** Zoom link available on the day of the meeting. *****************************

Monday, Jan 06 2025

SLCUSD Family Communication

​ ​ Family Communication News and Updates from the Superintendent's Office ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Superintendent's Update Dr. Eric Prater ​ ​ ​ ​ Board Reorganization ​ I want to take a moment to celebrate the recent November election and acknowledge our newly elected and re-elected members of the Board of Trustees. Congratulations to Brian Clausen (Trustee Area 7), Chris Ungar (Trustee Area 3), and newly elected Erica Flores Baltodano (Trustee Area 6). Additionally, the Board voted unanimously to select Marilyn Rodger as the 2025 Board President and Ellen Sheffer as the 2025 Board Clerk. ​ ​ ​ ​ Fiscal Update ​ As we look ahead to the 2025-26 school year, our district faces significant financial challenges that demand thoughtful, yet difficult, decisions. I am writing to share the realities of our budget situation and the steps we must take to ensure fiscal responsibility while continuing to prioritize student success. Since 2020, our district has worked diligently to support students as they recovered from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic through the use of State and Federal issued one-time COVID funds. Thanks to these additional supports, our students have returned to pre-pandemic performance levels, with many achieving greater success than ever before. These targeted academic and social-emotional interventions have proven highly effective in meeting the needs of our students and fostering their growth. ​ ​ ​ ​ Scope of the Issue ​ The financial challenges we face today are rooted in several factors: 1. One-Time COVID-19 Funding: From 2019-2022, the district received over $28 million in State and Federal one-time funding. These funds allowed us to provide 173 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions, focusing on academic interventions and mental health supports that helped students achieve pre-pandemic levels of success. The spending requirements for these monies were strict and had to be spent over a three to four year period to support student needs. These funds have now been fully expended, leaving us unable to sustain all programs and staff added during this time. The Board of Education and staff discussed these one-time funding realities when we approved the spending plan with the full understanding that, absent additional funding, these supports would need to be significantly reduced. 2. Basic Aid Status and Unfunded Mandates: As a basic aid or community-funded district, our primary revenue source is property taxes. The depreciation of Diablo Canyon Power Plant has resulted in a $9 million annual loss in property taxes for San Luis Coastal. While SB1090 has provided temporary relief, the final $4.6 million installment will come in 2025-26, further reducing our revenues in the out years. Additionally, the state-mandated Transitional Kindergarten (TK) program has added substantial costs to our general fund — projected at $4 million annually by 2025-26 with no state funding. ​ ​ ​ ​ 3.Personnel Costs: While enrollment has remained mostly flat, San Luis Coastal has added over 173 full-time equivalent positions since 2019-20. Personnel costs now comprise 88% of our budget, exceeding the 85% threshold recommended for fiscal health. We have provided competitive salary increases of 13% over three years to retain quality staff, but these costs, combined with rising retirement and healthcare expenses, have strained our budget. 4.Structural Deficit: These factors have contributed to a structural deficit, with a $7 million shortfall in 2023-24 and a projected $6 million deficit in 2025-26. Without corrective action, this deficit will grow by another $3.6 million in 2026-27. ​ ​ ​ ​ Need for Budget Reductions ​ Given that personnel costs are the primary driver of our structural deficit, reductions will inevitably affect staffing levels. While we will explore all areas of district spending, it is clear that reducing personnel expenses is necessary to bring our budget into alignment. This is not unique to our district; many others across California are facing similar challenges due to the expiration of one-time funding and rising costs. The following chart shows where the increases have taken place: ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Thanks to the expansion of academic interventions and mental health supports, our students are now performing at pre-pandemic levels—a significant achievement that not all districts in California can claim. We are incredibly proud of the dedication and hard work of our staff, students, and parents, who have played a vital role in helping students get back on track.  While the need for these supports remains high, we face the challenge of sustaining all the programs and staff we’ve added, as the one-time funds that made them possible are no longer available. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Timing and Process ​ California Education Code requires us to notify employees of any status changes by March 15. To meet this deadline, we have established the following timeline: Board Meetings: On January 14, 2025 the Board will hear from staff regarding the scope and severity of the potential reductions. On February 4, 2025, the Board will review and discuss proposed reductions and adopt a resolution to address a reduction in force. Employee and Community Meetings: We will host employee and community meetings leading up to the February 4, 2025, Board meeting. These sessions will be held on Wednesday, January 15 in the City of San Luis Obispo at the District Office Board Room (J2) and Wednesday, January 22 on the Coast at Morro Bay High School. These sessions will provide critical information, allow us to share our recommendations, and give the staff and community an opportunity to voice concerns and share feedback. More information regarding times will be provided in early January 2025. Employee Notifications: Notifications to impacted employees will be sent out in compliance with statutory deadlines. ​ ​ ​ ​ Moving Forward Together ​ We recognize that these decisions will impact our students, staff, and families. However, they are necessary to preserve the district’s financial stability and ability to serve our community at a high-level in the long term. I encourage you to participate in the upcoming employee and community meetings, where we will discuss these reductions and share ways to navigate its challenges. Thank you for your continued support and understanding. Despite these difficulties, we will maintain the quality of our schools in San Luis Coastal while commiting to the success of every student. I wish I had a more festive message for you as we break for the holidays. I do hope that you are able to find time to enjoy your family, friends, and loved ones.  Warmly, Eric ​ ​ ​ ​ Educational Services Lisa Yamashita, Assistant Superintendent ​ ​ ​ ​ Career Technical Education ​ The San Luis Obispo High School CTE courses have been collaborating with a variety of partners recently. The SLOHS culinary and agricultural pathways collaborated on a joint lesson of processing poultry for the animal protein unit in culinary. The two courses came together to go through the steps of processing chicken with intent for sale. Over 60 students from both pathways participated in this partnership!  An additional partnership occurred between the Construction Management pathway and the girls soccer program. The girls soccer program was in need of benches for the sideline, and rather than purchase them from a vendor, they partnered with Joe Sanchez and his Wood 2 students to build them. The students worked with soccer players to determine the best materials based on environmental elements and dimensions for maximum comfort.  This was not only a fun joint project, but the girls’ soccer team has gained a new fan following. The Construction Management students have been cheering them on matches as they rank #1 in the state. ​ ​ ​ ​ San Luis Coastal Education Foundation ​ As 2024 comes to a close, I invite you to reflect on the vital role education plays in San Luis Obispo—not just in shaping the lives of our students, but in building the future of our community.   Supporting the San Luis Coastal Education Foundation is one of the most impactful ways to help advance education and create lasting change right here at home. If you are thinking about making a year-end tax-deductible gift to a charity, would you consider giving to the Foundation? The Foundation partners with our district to provide resources that foster innovative programs, hands-on learning, and equitable opportunities for all students. Together, we’re equipping young minds with the skills they need to succeed and lead in a rapidly evolving world. Your support ensures our schools remain vibrant hubs of learning and creativity, and your gift by December 31st is tax deductible.   Join us in strengthening the future of San Luis Coastal schools and our community. Visit slcef.org/donate to give today. ​ ​ ​ ​ Elementary & Secondary Instructional Services: Learning and Achievement Department ​ As we approach the close of another year, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for your dedication and support. During this holiday season, we hope you find time to relax, recharge, and enjoy meaningful moments with your loved ones. May the new year bring joy, health, and exciting opportunities for each of you. Thank you for all that you do to support our students and our school community. Wishing you and your family a warm, happy, and safe holiday season! ​ ​

Thursday, Dec 19 2024

SLCUSD School Board Agenda

Regular Board Meeting Agenda Tuesday, December 17, 2024 ******************************************** OPEN SESSION - 6:00 p.m. ******************************************** VIA Teleconference & District Office Complex 1500 Lizzie Street - Room J2 San Luis Obispo, CA ******************************************* Zoom link will be available on the day of the meeting. *******************************************

Saturday, Dec 14 2024

SLCUSD Family Communication

​ ​ Family Communication News and Updates from the Superintendent's Office ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Superintendent's Update Dr. Eric Prater ​ ​ ​ ​ As we approach Thanksgiving, I find myself reflecting on the many things I am grateful for in our community. This season reminds me of the power of gratitude—especially for those around us who give more than they take. Whether it’s family, friends, or even strangers who go out of their way to help, I encourage each of us to find ways to be grateful. I also recognize that this time of year can be difficult for many, particularly those who have lost loved ones, are struggling with housing, or feel overwhelmed by the challenges of our world. I want to acknowledge those struggles and remind you that gratitude can be a healing balm—a form of medicine for the soul. Personally, it has helped me focus on what is good, what is meaningful, and what we share in common. I am especially thankful for the community we have here in the San Luis Coastal Unified School District. We are truly fortunate to live and work in a place where people care for one another, and where the spirit of love, compassion, and integrity thrives. It is because of the dedication of our families, students, and employees that our district is so special, and I am deeply grateful for each and every one of you. ​ ​ ​ ​ SLCUSD Reaffirms Safe School Zones ​ As a district, we remain committed to the safety and well-being of all our students and families. Our schools are safe places where students can thrive, learn, and grow without fear. That’s why, as part of our ongoing commitment, our Board of Education reaffirms the District’s Safe School Zone Resolution (Spanish), which ensures that our students' rights are protected, regardless of their family’s immigration status. ​ ​ ​ ​ Giving Tuesday ​ On Tuesday, December 3, we’ll be celebrating Giving Tuesday, a global movement that inspires generosity and empowers communities to create meaningful change. I encourage you to consider supporting the San Luis Coastal Education Foundation, which partners with our schools to fuel innovation, provide essential resources, and create hands-on learning opportunities for our students. Every contribution makes a difference, and together, we can continue to transform education for our children. As a nonprofit partner, the Foundation works hand-in-hand with our teachers, school sites, and district leadership to turn bold ideas into reality. By providing essential resources, they fuel innovation and create hands-on learning opportunities that prepare our students with the critical thinking skills they need for the future. This Giving Tuesday, join us in supporting the Foundation’s mission to enrich education for all students in the district. Every contribution makes an impact. ​ ​ ​ ​ This Thanksgiving, I hope you are able to enjoy the company of loved ones, savor some good food, and take time to reflect on the blessings in your life. And when we return from Thanksgiving Break on December 2, we’ll do so with renewed energy and focus, ready to continue our important work together. With gratitude, Eric ​ ​ ​ ​ Educational Services Lisa Yamashita, Assistant Superintendent ​ ​ ​ ​ Upcoming Holiday Performances Showcase Local Student Musicians ​ San Luis Obispo County's student musicians are set to deliver a series of holiday performances this December. Laguna Middle School and San Luis Obispo High School will join forces for two events: the Holiday Parade on December 6th and a performance at the Cal Poly Performing Arts Center on December 16th. Laguna's band will also present a special performance in front of Mission San Luis Obispo on December 13th at 6 p.m., near Santa’s House, offering a delightful evening of music. Meanwhile, student musicians from Los Osos Middle School and Morro Bay High School will participate in the Los Osos Holiday Parade on December 14th and share the stage at the Cal Poly Performing Arts Center on December 17th. These performances provide an excellent opportunity to celebrate the season while supporting the hard work and talent of local student musicians. Don’t miss these festive events! ​ ​ ​ ​ National Special Education Day - December 2, 2024 ​ Please join me in recognizing and honoring the dedicated professionals who support our students with disabilities. They are an outstanding group of professionals who have dedicated their life’s work to improving outcomes for students. Thank you to all of our Special Educators for the important work that you do and the difference that you make! The SLCUSD School Board resolution proclaiming December 2, 2024 as the day of the Special Educator can be read HERE. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Culinary Students Compete in Chop Classic ​ SLOHS was represented by two teams of student chefs in the inaugural Central Coast Chop Classic - Student Chef Culinary Competition hosted by Arroyo Grande High School. Each student team was presented a box of produce from Talley Farms and had to make a dish in one hour with at least four vegetable items plus boneless chicken breast. Students formulated their own recipes, prepared, cooked, and plated four dishes that were anonymously submitted to a tasting panel of four local chefs and food experts. Our team students learned a lot while performing under pressure and were winners amongst the other Central Coast culinary high school programs - Arroyo Grande, Atascadero, Paso Robles, and Santa Maria. Both teams received high praises and compliments from the chef judges! ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Automotive Students Travel to Las Vegas ​ Morro Bay and San Luis Obispo High School CTE students took a joint field trip to the SEMA automotive industry convention in Las Vegas. These students were privy to over 1,400 vehicles on display and had access to 2,400 vendors from the automotive industry. This unique student show program allows automotive focused students in high school, college and trade schools to participate in events and network with CEOs, business owners, and recruiters. Additionally they had access to view scholarship opportunities that are being offered to students interested in entering the automotive industry. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Four Local Students Selected for Prestigious California All-State Bands ​ Four young musicians from San Luis Obispo County have earned spots in the highly competitive California Band Directors Association (CBDA) All-State Bands, a significant honor in the music world. Each year, thousands of students from public, private, and charter schools across California audition for a chance to join these elite ensembles. Two 8th-grade students from Laguna Middle School were selected for the Symphonic Band, often regarded as the top-tier middle school ensemble. Linnae Knutson, who plays the French horn, and Zoe Clancy, on baritone saxophone, will represent their school in this distinguished group. San Luis Obispo High School also boasts two all-state honorees. Junior Mary Kate Fidopiastis earned her place in the ensemble on flute, while senior Marshall Lin was chosen for trumpet. Notably, Marshall secured a spot in the state’s most prestigious group, the Symphony Orchestra, marking his second consecutive year in this elite ensemble. These remarkable achievements highlight the dedication and skill of these young musicians and reflect the strength of music education programs in the community. ​ ​ ​ ​ Elementary Libraries Update ​ Elementary Librarians met this week to share what’s happening in their vibrant libraries. Some of the main topics were author/illustrator studies, new read-alouds that students will love, and developing and maintaining student library assistant programs. Jane Hawley, District Librarian, also shared information about the Benchmark ELA curriculum’s K-6 progression of unit topics and enduring understandings with the group. The librarians then discussed ways to support teachers and students with the Benchmark curriculum through library time, collection development, and research resources. ​ ​ ​ ​ Leading Equitable Schools ​ On Tuesday teams from our secondary sites (Laguna, Los Osos, MBHS, SLOHS) continued their training with the University of Washington Leading Equitable Schools Program as part of the Equity Action Plan.  Teams engaged in conversations and reflection about data collected from students via student panels and individual/group interviews, focusing on engagement, belonging and connectedness to school and staff.  Teams worked on identifying themes within the student experience data as a beginning point to building a vision learning and instructional practice for all students. The teams will continue their collaborative work with the University of Washington Jan 19th. ​ ​ ​ ​ SLCUSD Middle and High Schools ranked highly in California by U. S. News and World Report - All Award Winning Status ​ U. S. News and World Report evaluates schools based on their students' performance in mathematics and reading, which is determined by state assessment tests. The ranking formula consisted of two parts: one half was based on the test results themselves, while the other half considered these results in relation to the students' socioeconomic backgrounds. In essence, the highest-ranked schools are those that not only excel academically but also effectively educate all of their students. Click here to view the full article See how each school ranked: Los Osos Middle School Laguna Middle School San Luis Obispo High School Morro Bay High School ​ ​ ​ ​ 2024-25 Single Plans for Student Achievement (SPSA) approved ​ On Tuesday, ISLA Elementary Director Stephanie Shepherd and Secondary Director Dan Neff formally presented the 2024-25 School Plans for Student Achievement (SPSA) from elementary and secondary sites for Board approval. Baywood Principal Kirsten May, Los Osos Middle School Principal Heather Contreras, and Morro Bay High School Principal Scott Schalde were in attendance to share highlights from their site SPSAs. The SPSAs were approved unanimously by the Board.  These plans encompass hours of work devoted to a continuous improvement process that is data-driven and involves input from site staff, as well as the school community. Prior to these plans being finalized, each site meets with their leadership team and School Site Council to develop goals that are intended to increase student achievement; these groups also ensure SPSA alignment to the broader district, Board and LCAP goals. Each school completed a SPSA summary page that highlights some of the site’s celebrations, areas of growth, and action steps that the School Site Council selected in order to address their identified growth areas. ​ ​

Saturday, Nov 23 2024

SLCUSD Board Meeting Agenda

Regular Board Meeting Agenda Tuesday, November 19, 2024 ******************************************** CLOSED SESSION - 5:00 p.m. OPEN SESSION - 6:00 p.m. ******************************************** VIA Teleconference & Los Osos Middle School Library 1555 El Moro Avenue Los Osos, CA 93402 ******************************************* Zoom link will be available on the day of the meeting. *******************************************

Saturday, Nov 16 2024

SLCUSD Parent Communication

​ ​ Family Communication News and Updates from the Superintendent's Office ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Superintendent's Update Dr. Eric Prater ​ ​ ​ ​ As we continue our journey together in the world of public education, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on a topic that is fundamental to our work with students and to the success of our school community: the importance of high expectations. We often hear the phrase “high expectations” used when discussing the goals we set for our students, teachers, and staff. But what does it really mean, and why is it so important that we continue to hold ourselves and each other to high standards? The answer lies not just in academic performance or achievement, but in the deeper, often unspoken language of opportunity, respect, and belief in human potential. ​ ​ ​ ​ The Hidden Language Behind High Expectations ​ When we talk about having high expectations for students, we are really talking about our belief in their potential. High expectations communicate to students that we believe they are capable of achieving greatness, regardless of the challenges they may face. These expectations serve as a powerful motivator, setting a vision for what is possible and pushing students to rise to the occasion. But the same principle applies to our expectations for adults in the educational community—teachers, staff, coaches, and administrators. When we hold ourselves to high standards, we are showing our students, our colleagues, and our community that education is not just a job, but a calling. We show them that learning is a lifelong endeavor and that growth, excellence, and accountability are integral parts of the educational process. The hidden language behind high expectations is rooted in belief: belief in our students’ ability to overcome barriers, belief in our educators’ capacity to inspire and lead, and belief in the school community as a whole to provide a supportive, challenging, and enriching environment. When we maintain high expectations, we are saying, “We believe in you.” This message transcends words and becomes an unspoken agreement that we will support each other in the pursuit of greatness. ​ ​ ​ ​ Why Are High Expectations So Important? ​ High expectations matter because they shape the entire culture of a school and community. When we set the bar high, we provide a clear, compelling vision for what is possible. We do not settle for mediocrity because we know that our students—each and every one of them—have the potential for greatness. This mindset drives innovation in teaching, creates a climate of continuous improvement, and fosters a belief that each child, regardless of their background, can achieve success. For our teachers, coaches, and staff, high expectations mean that we strive for professional excellence. We challenge ourselves to engage with the latest research, adapt our practices, and refine our skills so that we can better support our students. It means that we are committed to professional growth, not just for the sake of personal achievement, but because our students deserve the best we can offer. But high expectations are not about perfection—they are about growth and progress. They are about creating a safe environment where people feel encouraged to take risks, try new strategies, and learn from their mistakes. High expectations give us the courage to ask tough questions, to challenge ourselves, and to push beyond what we thought was possible. This culture of growth benefits everyone involved, from the youngest learners to the most experienced educators. As superintendent, I have made plenty of mistakes along the way, but I am firmly committed to learn and grow from each of them. ​ ​ ​ ​ What Does It Say When We Don’t Hold High Expectations? ​ On the flip side, when we fail to hold high expectations—either for our students or for ourselves—we send a very different message. We signal that we do not believe in the full potential of our students, or worse, that we don’t believe they are worth the effort it takes to push them to be their best. Without high expectations, complacency can take root. Students may begin to believe that “good enough” is acceptable, and educators may stop striving for the best possible outcomes for their students. Low expectations create a self-fulfilling prophecy. If we expect little from our students, they will likely rise to meet those low expectations, not because they are incapable, but because they have not been given the opportunity to challenge themselves. Likewise, when we as educators set the bar too low for ourselves, we limit our ability to inspire our students to do more. We all come up short. At its core, not holding high expectations is an abdication of our duty as educators and leaders. It is an unwillingness to fully invest in the success of every student. It is an unwillingness to believe in the transformative power of education and the potential of each individual. ​ ​ ​ ​ A Call to Action ​ As we move forward, I urge all of us—parents, staff, coaching and students alike—to continue setting and holding high expectations. Let’s challenge one another to do our best work, to aim for excellence, and to embrace the idea that we are all capable of achieving more than we might initially believe. Our expectations should be a mirror: reflecting the brilliance we see in each student, and reminding us of the power we have to shape the future. By holding high expectations, we not only help our students succeed academically, but we also help them grow into confident, resilient, and motivated individuals ready to take on the challenges of the world beyond school. It also gives us educators hope and inspiration. Hope - that what we do each day makes a difference in the lives of our students. And - inspiration - knowing that excellence is a team sport. Together, we can build an educational community where excellence is the standard, growth is the goal, and every student—without exception—can achieve greatness. Have a nice Veterans Day weekend. Eric ​ ​ ​ ​ Educational Services Lisa Yamashita, Assistant Superintendent ​ ​ ​ ​ National Blue Ribbon Schools Awards Ceremony ​ Stephanie Shepherd, Elementary Director of Instructional Services, joined Principal James McMillan and teacher Teri Block in Washington, DC this week to attend the National Blue Ribbon Schools Awards Ceremony on behalf of Los Ranchos Elementary. You can see the video of them accepting their award here. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe ​ Morro Bay High School drama is excited to present CS Lewis’s classic The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe at Morro Bay High School’s Theater beginning on November 8 starting at 7:00 p.m. For more information and travel to Narnia to help defeat the White Witch and her evil army, click here. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Adult School - Parent Participation and Cooperative Preschool ​ Once again, the district office halls and offices were filled with Parent Participation Program families  celebrating imagination and seasonal fun.  Our annual parade features little ones (and often their parents) in sweet costumes--this year we had everything from pumpkins to pirates, and even a baby Voting Ballot!  Meanwhile, PPP teachers continued their professional development with a fall focus on "Calm and Confident Leadership in Adult Education".  We are proud to be bringing the Parent Participation Program into its 5th decade of supporting the families of SLCUSD. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Career Technical Education in San Luis Coastal ​ San Luis Coastal takes pride in offering diverse and robust career technical education (CTE) options throughout our secondary schools, particularly at our two comprehensive high schools. Morro Bay High School has 11 different CTE pathways and San Luis Obispo High School has 17. Within those pathways 21 courses are dual enrolled with Cuesta College. The California Dashboard began including CTE as an indicator in 2023 and San Luis Coastal far out performs our county counterparts in college and career readiness. Please click HERE to learn more about CTE in San Luis Coastal!  ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Career Technical Education Students Attend Apprenticeship and Trades Job Fair ​ San Luis Coastal organized a field trip for students of all grade levels to attend the Apprenticeship and Trades Job Fair. We had over 60 students sign up to explore trades related jobs such as electrical, plumbing, and solar. Students had the opportunity to hear the importance of industry trades and the opportunities that are available to them here in San Luis Obispo. Students were also able to hear from current apprentices, which included former San Luis Coastal students. We were joined by two school board members, Chris Unger and Mark Buchman. We will be organizing a smaller gathering of Seniors in the Spring to visit the IBEW 639 to have a more individualized experience and be able to see the training modules first hand. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ AVID Field Trip ​ Laguna Middle School 7th and 8th grade AVID students had the opportunity to go on a day-long field trip to Cal Poly as part of a college and career exploration event. The students were hosted by the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers and the Manufacturing Engineering Department. Students took part in a campus tour, bridge building challenge and metal casting engineering activity where they created a custom Laguna Lancer metal plate to take home. They were able to embody Cal Poly's "Learn By Doing" model of hands-on learning which showed them one of many career opportunities available at a university. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ California’s Early Educator Award - “Be the One” ​ Our very own Andi Proulx, who is an Education Specialist in our special education preschool program, was selected as California’s Early Educator of the year, receiving the “Be the One” award at the California Early Childhood Special Education (CALECSE) Conference on October 22nd. She was selected for her work with the District’s Preschool Early Education Program (PEEP) and for her passion and dedication to improving outcomes for young children, as they grow to reach their full potential. Her colleagues respect and adore her and are the ones who nominated her for this recognition. While accepting the award, Andi spoke to how lucky she is to be able to do the work that she does with our young children and the support that she has from the most amazing team of educators, that are like a family.  ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ CAASPP Student Score County & State Comparisons ​ Here’s the presentation from Tuesday night’s Board meeting about San Luis Coastal’s Student Performance on California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress. We are celebrating our student’s amazing growth and closing the achievement gap for students with disabilities and students identified as socio-economically disadvantaged. ​ ​ ​ ​   ​ ​ ​ ​ Business Services Ryan Pinkerton, Assistant Superintendent ​ ​ ​ ​ Sustainability Highlight ​ This week we are focusing on the efforts of our Information Services and Technology (IS&T) department and their efforts toward sustainability. The IS&T section on our Sustainability page highlights the energy saving efforts they have implemented over the past few years. From servers to switches to sleep settings, we are using technology advances to save energy. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Human Resources Dr. Greg Puccia, Assistant Superintendent ​ ​ ​ ​ SLCUSD Employee Recognition ​ On October 21st, SLOCOE recognized exemplary employees from across the county at Cuesta College. SLCUSD leadership and Board of Trustee members attended the county’s Employee and Teacher of the Year celebration, where we proudly celebrated two outstanding staff members, April Stover and Josh Waldman. Both are vital members of the Morro Bay High School team and represented SLCUSD with distinction. Josh Waldman has been a valued member of SLCUSD since 2015, serving as a Social Science teacher and Mock Trial Coach of MBHS’s award winning team. Currently, he is the department chair of Social Studies and has been an active and influential teacher leader at Morro Bay High School throughout his tenure. Josh is a MBHS  and LOMS parent himself, which provides him with a unique perspective. We extend our heartfelt thanks for his dedication to our students and congratulate him on being named the 2024 SLCUSD Teacher of the Year! You can view his video here. April Stover joined SLCUSD in 2016 and currently serves an Office Clerk at Morro Bay High School. As a proud MBHS parent of a current student and recent graduate she plays a vital role in the daily operations of the school. April currently serves her fellow CSEA members as their President. April consistently greets staff, parents, and students with a smile and a warm welcome, making her an invaluable part of our community. We are truly fortunate to have her as a member of the larger SLCUSD family and extend our heartfelt congratulations to her for being recognized as the Classified Employee of the Year at the county level! You can view her video here. ​ ​

Saturday, Nov 09 2024

Message from the Superintendent

Dear San Luis Coastal Community, On Tuesday, voters will cast their ballots in a variety of local, state, and federal elections. At times, the rhetoric around these campaigns has become intense, and we know that the debates around many of today’s issues can quickly get emotional. We encourage all members of our school district community to remain especially respectful and empathetic in our interactions with others. Whether you are happy with the election results or not, we ask that we all focus on maintaining a safe, supportive, and welcoming learning environment for ourselves and our peers. A key part of the San Luis Coastal Unified School District mission is to build and nurture a culture that develops a deeper understanding of each unique person, while recognizing and valuing diversity and individual differences.  With this in mind, we remind all students that the use of any language that is harassing, threatening, hateful, or vulgar will not be tolerated, per district policy. Any students found to have violated this policy will be subject to disciplinary action. We do not expect to take this action, but we wanted to make sure everyone was aware of our policy.  We also know that the nature of politics right now causes additional stress at a time when we are already dealing with social, emotional, and economic turbulence. This has been especially difficult for our students. Please know that our counselors are available to speak with students if they need any support at all.  We are fortunate to live, work, and learn in a school district community made up of people who truly care about and support one another. Let’s continue to make San Luis Coastal Unified School District an exceptional place to learn, work, and live. Thank you for your support. Dr. Eric Prater, Superintendent

Tuesday, Nov 05 2024