SLCUSD Family Communication

Family Communication News and Updates from the Superintendent's Office Superintendent's Update Dr. Eric Prater As we approach the holiday break, I want to take a moment to speak from the heart. The past two years have asked much of our district. Through a prolonged and difficult budget reduction process - alongside a world that often feels heavy - our employees, students, and families have carried uncertainty, change, and loss with remarkable resilience. I know this has not been easy, and it deserves to be named. What has sustained me through this season is the character of our community. I see it in the care our staff show students every day, in the trust families place in our schools, and in the shared belief that public education matters - especially when times are hard. These are not small things. They are the foundation of who we are. As we enter this holiday season, I hope this break offers time to rest, reflect, and reconnect with what brings you peace and meaning. May it be a moment to step back from the noise, tend to one another, and remember that even in challenge, there is strength in community and hope in our shared purpose. Thank you - for your patience, your partnership, and your unwavering commitment to our children. I wish you and your loved ones a restful holiday and a renewed sense of possibility in the year ahead. With gratitude, Eric Business Services Ryan Pinkerton, Assistant Superintendent Food and Nutrition Services Update Food & Nutrition Services is proud to partner with the SLO Food Bank and other local food rescue organizations. As of December 1, 2025, we’ve donated over 22,000 lbs of food to our local community!  Check out this Education Beat Podcast with Food & Nutrition Services Director, Erin Primer. Learn about the district’s commitment to sourcing local food for our students, despite federal cuts. There was also an article featuring SLCUSD’s school meal program and the importance of procuring local food for students.  Congratulations to the Food & Nutrition Services Team for their second CSBA Golden Bell Award! This prestigious recognition is awarded by the California School Boards Association to select California school programs and follows a rigorous nomination and selection process. You can read the Vivid Vision narrative here. Educational Services Lisa Yamashita, Assistant Superintendent As we enter the holiday season, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our families for your continued partnership, support, and trust. Your involvement and encouragement play a vital role in your children’s learning and growth, and we are thankful to be part of that journey with you.  In December, the District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC) met virtually via Zoom and elected new officers, welcoming Maria Quen as president and Ana Hernandez as secretary. The meeting included a presentation by Marci Beddall on the California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program, as well as valuable information from Darius Rogness of SLO Legal Assistance Foundation, who shared resources for family preparedness plans and highlighted upcoming workshops. The committee also promoted CABE 2026, which will be held in San Francisco in March, reviewed district compliance with teacher and instructional aide requirements, and learned about the Dual Language Immersion Pathway from Shannan McFadden-Sullivan, including its upcoming expansion into Los Osos Middle School and information on the Seal of Biliteracy. The next DELAC meeting will take place on Thursday, March 19, at Morro Bay High School. The holiday spirit was also on full display at the Adult School Cooperative Preschool, where Teacher Lisa’s class celebrated with a festive Waffle Breakfast. Families came together to volunteer, bringing potluck dishes and helping toast waffles for the children to enjoy. The celebration included storytime, decorating, and lots of smiles and laughter, creating a joyful and memorable experience for children, families, and staff alike. We extend our warmest holiday wishes to all of our families. May this time be filled with joy, peace, and meaningful moments with loved ones. Thank you for being an important part of our school community—we wish you a safe, restful holiday and a happy New Year.  

Saturday, Dec 20 2025

SLCUSD Family Communication

Family Communication News and Updates from the Superintendent's Office Superintendent's Update Dr. Eric Prater Over the past two years, our district has faced some of the most challenging budgetary circumstances in over a decade. I want to take this opportunity to clearly explain where we are, how we arrived here, and what this means moving forward - while also acknowledging the very real impact these decisions have on our students, staff, and families. Understanding Our Financial Reality Several factors have converged to create a significant structural deficit in our district’s budget. These include: SLCUSD has received two significant budgetary gut punches that must be acknowledged -  loss of SB1090 revenues and an unfunded TK mandate. Together - these revenue shortfalls exceed $10 million dollars annually.  One-time COVID funding has expired per the spending requirements outlined in the law. We used these resources to lower class sizes, minimize combination classes, provide additional counseling and mental health support, and build a complex MTSS model to address our most impacted students.  Employee costs by way of salary, health care, and pension contributions continue to rise significantly.  For context, our total district revenue for the 2024–25 school year is approximately $140 million, which underscores the scale and seriousness of the reductions required. What We’ve Already Done Last year, the district made the difficult decision to reduce nearly $5 million in expenditures, cutting our structural deficit in half. These reductions - along with their impacts - have already been shared, and we recognize the toll they have taken on our system. None of those decisions were made lightly. Every position and program that was reduced was once created because it added value to students and schools. We fully acknowledge the loss felt by staff and the challenges created for students. What Lies Ahead To balance our budget for the 2026–27 school year, we must now reduce an additional $5 million. The recommended reductions that will be brought forward to the Board of Education on Tuesday night reflect this next step. More than 86% of our district budget is dedicated to personnel costs which includes teachers, office support staff, library techs, custodians, administrators, counselors, coaches, grounds crews, bus drivers, food services workers, and so many more. We are, at our core, a people-centered organization. As a result, many of the reductions - both last year and this year - are personnel-related. At the same time, we have worked diligently to make as many non-personnel reductions as possible in order to preserve direct student support wherever we can. Why These Decisions Matter State law requires school districts to maintain specific unrestricted reserve levels. Failing to do so could result in a state takeover of the district, something we must avoid at all costs. These reductions, while painful, are necessary to ensure the district’s long-term stability and local governance. Looking Forward with Hope We continue to advocate strongly for increased revenue, including: State funding for Basic Aid School Districts for Transitional Kindergarten Reinstatement of funding connected to Diablo Canyon, which continues to operate even though PG&E has fully depreciated the plant’s asset - significantly reducing local tax contributions to San Luis Coastal. While these efforts have not yet been successful, we remain committed to working with our legislators and partners at PG&E to pursue solutions. Should either of these funding sources become available, the Board of Education will have the opportunity to consider reinstating some of the reductions. Gratitude and Commitment I know how hard these past two years have been. I am deeply grateful for the professionalism, resilience, and care our staff continue to show every day, and for the trust and support of our community. Even in the face of difficult decisions, our commitment to students remains unwavering. Thank you for taking the time to understand the challenges we face together. Transparency, compassion, and partnership will continue to guide us as we move forward. I’ve included a budget handout for your review. With appreciation and resolve, Eric   Budget Handout - English Budget Handout - Spanish

Saturday, Dec 13 2025

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, colleagues, or even strangers who quietly go out of their way to help, I encourage each of us to take a moment to notice these everyday acts of kindness and to be thankful for them. I also recognize that this time of year can be difficult for many. Some in our community are coping with the loss of loved ones, struggling with basic needs, or feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of our world. I want to acknowledge these hardships and gently remind you that gratitude can be a healing balm - something that steadies us, brings comfort, and helps us see what is still good and meaningful in our lives. It is something I lean on personally, and it continues to guide me toward 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. I am deeply grateful for each and every one of you. Wishing you a peaceful and restorative Thanksgiving. With gratitude, Eric Budget Update At Tuesday’s Board Meeting, we shared the potential budget reductions being considered for the 2026-27 school year. You can view the presentation here. As we continue to address our structural deficit, now in the second year of required reductions, our focus remains clear: protect essential services for students while continuing our steadfast advocacy for the funding our community deserves. The Board direction is clear. In their annual priorities, they tasked staff with developing a plan and recommendation for the Board that rectifies our structural deficit and ensures we meet the minimum state guidelines to maintain a positive certification. Further, in their 2025-30 Strategic Direction, they directed staff to establish a reserve level of a minimum of 10% of expenditures in unrestricted funds. Over the past several months, we’ve kept staff and families updated through meetings, newsletters, and public forums. You can find all related resources on the District website here, including the Fiscal Update and Programmatic Impacts document. This effort to be transparent remains a priority as we navigate another challenging budget cycle. We have not stopped fighting for sustainable, long-term solutions. Last year, we advocated for Transitional Kindergarten funding and the return of unitary tax or continuation of funding for every year Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant remains in operation. While we have been unsuccessful to date, we are continuing intentional advocacy efforts. Receiving funding from either of these two sources of revenue would allow the board to reassess and redefine its priorities. We remain committed to pressing our case at the state and local levels. After reducing costs at the District level, we are now facing cuts that touch more areas across departments and school sites. These include intervention supports, counseling, library staffing, custodial and grounds services, and other non-personnel adjustments, as outlined in the Board presentation and Budget Reduction Informational Guide. While these decisions are difficult, our intent is always to protect the programs that most directly impact students. Despite the need for reductions, we are safeguarding several key programs and services that directly support student learning and well-being: Classrooms remain our top priority. Elementary class sizes will not increase beyond the levels set last year. Transitional Kindergarten is protected as a state mandated program and something we believe in as a district core-value. Student transportation is fully maintained. Counseling, library services, and intervention supports will continue, though at reduced levels. Special education and student services will remain staffed at levels above many comparable districts. We will continue to invest in supports that serve our most vulnerable learners. The California Department of Education DataQuest chart (Slide 13 of the Budget Presentation) shows that even after last year’s reductions, SLCUSD continues to maintain lower teacher-to-student ratios than our similar neighboring districts. The Board will take formal action on the proposed reductions at its December meeting, in accordance with state deadlines. In the months that follow, we will: Monitor the Governor’s January budget Continue gathering community and staff input through the LCAP process Engage in negotiations with all three unions Finalize the 2026–27 budget for Board approval in June We know this work is challenging, and yet our community continues to show resilience, care, and commitment to students. Thank you for staying informed and engaged as we advocate for the resources our schools need and protect the programs that matter most. Educational Services Lisa Yamashita, Assistant Superintendent Artificial Intelligence Implementation Task Force Panel Speakers In January, we’ll begin work with our Artificial Intelligence Implementation Task Force made up of staff, students and families to make recommendations for how our students and staff will interact with Artificial Intelligence.  We’ll develop a vision statement and consider responsible use guidelines.  I would like one of our meetings to include a panel discussion of people who currently work in Technology or other sectors primarily using Artificial Intelligence on a regular basis.  If you would be willing to participate as a speaker panel member, please fill out this interest form. The Ravenfall Series Author Visit at Monarch Grove Elementary Monarch Grove Elementary was thrilled to host a visit from New York Times bestselling author Kalyn Josephson, a graduate of SLCUSD schools, for the 4th and 5th-grade students last week! Ms. Josephson, known for her New York Times’ bestselling middle-grade fantasy series Ravenfall, delivered an engaging presentation focused on her journey of becoming a writer. Students learned about her creative process, specifically exploring the unique challenges and joys of writing animals as characters and weaving elements of magic into their storytelling. Our young readers and writers were captivated and eagerly jumped at the chance to ask thoughtful questions about her writing career and her new upcoming middle grade books. It was an inspiring experience for all the young readers and aspiring writers! Many thanks to the Monarch Grove PTA for financially supporting the library program and the Monarch Grove library tech and staff for planning the author visit for students. Transform Education This Giving Tuesday Tuesday, December 2nd is Giving Tuesday—a global movement that inspires generosity and empowers communities to create meaningful change. It’s the perfect day to make a difference in our schools by supporting the San Luis Coastal Education Foundation. Did you know that more than 40% of students in our district face socioeconomic barriers?  The Foundation partners with our schools and community to expand access, remove barriers, and open doors for all students. From early classroom experiences to real-world career exploration, every Foundation initiative is part of a larger effort to equip students for success in a changing world. Watch your mailbox for the Foundation’s first-ever holiday giving catalog, where you’ll find meaningful gifts that empower teachers and inspire students. You can also visit slcef.org/gifts to give in honor of a loved one this holiday season! This Giving Tuesday, join us in supporting the Foundation’s mission to enrich education for all students in the district. City of San Luis Obispo Voter Survey The City of San Luis Obispo held a public hearing and vote in November 2024 to approve the Citywide Single Vote for City Council. They are currently surveying city residents to find ways to raise awareness of this change prior to next year’s election. If you have a moment, please click here for their short survey. Bishop’s Peak Reaches Out to Local Leaders Our third graders, as part of their history curriculum-tied instruction, wrote letters to city leaders. The San Luis Obispo Police Chief and Head Librarian wrote personal letters back. Mayor Stewart came to visit. Way to go BP teachers! Thanks for bringing these opportunities to our Bobcats. Morro Bay High School Library Genrefication Morro Bay High School is excited to celebrate their school’s new library technician, Ms. Devin Florendo, whose innovative changes have already made a positive impact on the school’s library environment. Ms. Florendo has successfully genrefied the entire library collection, making it much easier and more engaging for students to find books they love and providing a bookstore-style browsing experience. Her efforts have made the library a vibrant, student-centered space that is regularly filled with students before classes begin and during lunch, proving that books, reading, and community connection are thriving at MBHS. NextGen Scholars Focus Groups The NextGen Scholars had the opportunity to participate in focus groups with the San Luis Coastal Education Foundation and discuss the program highlights and express areas of growth for the program. Program highlights include college and industry trips and mentorship with Cal Poly students. Students also discussed the relationship they have with their counselor through our cohort counseling model as being very successful. Some areas of growth include more in person tutoring and mentorship and additional parent outreach. The NextGen Scholars are currently posting a combined GPA average of 3.87 and 17 students have a 4.0 or higher. Culinary Field Trip Chef Jaggers took his capstone students to the Kitchen Terminal in San Luis Obispo to hear about their business model of cooperative kitchens and food trucks. Our students were able to tour the kitchens, walk through a working food truck and buy beignets! Our capstone students for their culminating project will be designing their own food trucks in conjunction with the graphic design pathway at the end of the trimester.  

Saturday, Nov 22 2025

SLCUSD Family Communication

Family Communication News and Updates from the Superintendent's Office Superintendent's Update Dr. Eric Prater Across our district this month, students are stepping into the world of Healthcare and Life Sciences through the K12 Regional Skills Lab, a hands-on learning program that connects classroom learning to careers right here on the Central Coast. In classrooms from kindergarten through sixth grade, students are not just reading about science, they’re becoming scientists, problem-solvers, and caregivers. They’re exploring how the human body works, diagnosing mock patient cases, and learning how professionals in healthcare and life sciences help people heal and live healthier lives. This work matters deeply. Healthcare is one of the fastest-growing and most essential industries in our region, employing thousands of residents in hospitals, clinics, and biotech firms. As our population grows and ages, demand for skilled healthcare workers continues to rise, creating opportunities for today’s students to become tomorrow’s doctors, nurses, radiologic technologists, respiratory therapists, and biomedical engineers. Through the Skills Lab, students are gaining foundational skills that will serve them in any future career such as critical thinking, teamwork, empathy, and communication. Just as important, they’re beginning to see themselves as capable contributors to their community’s well-being and success. The response from our teachers has been very positive. In a survey, we received feedback like,  "The students were highly engaged and enjoyed every part of this activity.  They are looking forward to the next activity." And, "We are excited for our next box to come!" This districtwide effort represents what public education does best: inspiring curiosity, building purpose, and preparing every child to thrive in a changing world. Veterans Day Veterans Day is a time to honor and acknowledge everyone who has served in the United States Armed Forces. Celebrated each year on November 11, the holiday originated as Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I in 1918. In 1954, it was renamed Veterans Day to recognize veterans of all wars. I want to personally thank our veterans for their service. Enjoy the long weekend, Eric Business Services Ryan Pinkerton, Assistant Superintendent Measure C Update: Elementary Schools Much of the early work has focused on modernizing and expanding Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Kindergarten spaces. Once those classrooms are complete, attention will shift to the rest of each campus.T Bishop’s Peak The new Kindergarten classrooms are complete, and the TK wing has been modernized. This summer, two central classroom wings will be demolished to make way for a brand-new classroom building. Los Ranchos Work continues on the new TK classrooms, as well as the three new Kindergarten modular classrooms. Some progress was delayed recently when the government shutdown made it difficult to secure a crane operator to put the new rooms in place; FAA clearance was required due to the site’s location. The good news is that approval has now been granted, and the new classrooms will be moved from the blacktop into place next week.h C.L. Smith Kindergarten classrooms and campus restrooms have been modernized, and new childcare rooms are temporarily serving as classrooms. The next phase is expected to clear the Department of the State Architect (DSA) in January, with additional classroom modernization planned for spring. Sinsheimer TK and Kindergarten classroom modernization is complete, and design work is underway for the remainder of the campus. Phase 2 construction is expected to begin in spring or summer. Hawthorne Modernization of the main classroom building is ongoing and will continue into next school year. Because the campus has limited extra space, we are not able to modernize a full wing at once. The new childcare classrooms are finished and currently being used as temporary housing. Pacheco Modernization of the first classroom wing (on the north end of campus) is underway, with a new PG&E service installation starting this winter. That first wing should be completed by summer, with work on the second wing starting next school year. Teach With SLOCA vacating the site in June, planning is now underway for campus modernization. We walked the site with Mr. Martin this week, and an architect will soon be brought on board to begin design work. Baywood Plans for the new campus are complete, though progress has been delayed by the county planning department. We are working closely with the county on their requirements and anticipate submitting plans to the Department of State Architects this spring. A construction start date will be determined once all approvals are in place. Monarch Grove Campus modernization continues through the school year and into the summer, with additional small Phase 2 projects to follow. Two new Kindergarten classrooms have been added. Del Mar Two new kindergarten classrooms were added to campus, and the former TK/Kindergarten rooms have been modernized. The new front security fencing and landscaping are finished, and the parking lot has been repaved. Plans for modernizing the remaining classroom wings will be submitted soon. This summer, a new childcare portable and Parent Participation classroom will be added. Measure C Update: Secondary Schools Laguna Middle School All multi-stall restrooms on campus have been fully modernized, and temporary classrooms have been added behind the gym to support ongoing construction. The gym and annex are receiving new roofs, updated heating and ventilation systems, and a fresh coat of paint. The newly completed quad area is open, with landscaping for the planter boxes coming soon. As modernization continues, crews are also upgrading essential infrastructure—including electrical, sewer, water, and gas systems. Work has begun on the first classroom wing, with additional wings scheduled over the next two years. Temporary classrooms will be used to minimize disruption during this process.T Los Osos Middle School All multi-stall restrooms on campus have been fully modernized. The main office building is currently undergoing a complete renovation, including the addition of a new entry feature. Once the office is finished, modernization will continue throughout each classroom wing. The tennis courts are also being upgraded, with new pickleball courts planned once the work is complete. Pacific Beach High School Construction of the new school is underway, with foundations now being built following extensive site preparation. The new campus is being built behind the current campus. Morro Bay High School The stadium is receiving new bleachers, lighting, and turf. San Luis Obispo High School New turf is being installed in the stadium, and plans for a new classroom building are currently under DSA review. The new building will replace the portables in the center of campus, and additional portables near the old gym will be removed once construction is complete. The restroom portable from Measure D will be relocated next to Taylor Field. We’re excited to see these improvements taking shape and grateful to our community for making them possible. Your support through Measure C is helping create safer, more modern, and inspiring learning environments for all our students. Educational Services Lisa Yamashita, Assistant Superintendent The San Luis Obispo High School Marching Band concluded its competitive season on a high note, earning second place in the Percussion, Drum Major, and Division categories at the ROAR Competition in Pismo Beach on Saturday. Later that day, SLOHS proudly hosted the ROAR event, welcoming talented marching bands from across San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. The band’s dedication, teamwork, and musicianship were on full display, marking a successful end to an exciting season. That same weekend, the SLOHS Cross Country team continued its tradition of excellence while hosting the County Championship meet at Laguna Golf Course. The girls’ team delivered a strong performance, finishing a close second to Arroyo Grande, while the boys’ team captured their sixth consecutive County Championship title—an incredible milestone for the program and a testament to their hard work, determination, and team spirit. Meanwhile, over at Morro Bay High School, the Drama Department brought laughter to the stage with The Play That Goes Wrong, a comedy about the accident-prone Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society attempting to stage a 1920s murder mystery. As the set collapsed, props disappeared, and the cast struggled to keep the show going, audiences were treated to a hilariously chaotic performance that promised an evening of fun and entertainment. In district libraries, creative programs inspired students to discover a love of reading. At Pacheco Elementary, Library Technician Danielle Clarke guided 5th and 6th grade students through a three-week exploration of reading genres. Students began by taking genre personality quizzes to identify their top reading interests, then participated in a “book tasting,” browsing titles matched to their preferences. The personalized approach led to an impressive surge in book checkouts as students found books that felt specially chosen for them. Across the district, similar programs are helping students explore new genres, engage with diverse stories, and cultivate a lifelong passion for reading. The California Industrial & Technology Education Association (CITEA) also brought cause for celebration this season, recognizing two exceptional educators in the district. Theo Wendorff, Engineering Teacher at Morro Bay High School, was named the CITEA Outstanding Teacher of the Year for 2024–2025 for his commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and technical skill development among his students. In addition, Donald Repucci, Shop Teacher at Laguna Middle School, received the CITEA Middle School Award for his outstanding efforts in engaging younger learners in technology education. Their achievements highlight the district’s dedication to excellence in hands-on, future-focused learning. Rounding out the month, Morro Bay High School AVID students embarked on a college exploration trip through Northern California, visiting San Francisco State University, UC Davis, Sacramento State, and Stanford University. At each campus, current MBHS graduates met with the students to share their college experiences and provide personalized tours. The trip offered valuable insights into college life and inspired many students to expand their list of potential universities. This memorable experience strengthened their motivation to pursue higher education and envision new possibilities for their futures. In other district news, Ms. McFadden-Sullivan, Ms. Shepherd, and Mr. Neff provided an update on the SLCUSD English Learner Program, highlighting key developments and progress. The presentation included current student enrollment numbers, reclassification data, an overview of the program tailored to English Learner students, and plans for the school year. This comprehensive update underscored the district’s commitment to supporting the academic growth and success of its English Learner community. San Luis Coastal also continues to expand its dual enrollment opportunities, offering students a variety of college-level courses in multiple career clusters. Through collaboration with Cuesta College, dual enrollment counselor Jessica Hoyt, and site administrators, the district works to grow course offerings that connect with career and technical education pathways such as automotive and culinary programs. While teacher qualification requirements can sometimes limit offerings, the district remains committed to aligning dual enrollment with certificated programs at Cuesta to help students gain career-ready skills more quickly. Please see this presentation on dual enrollment for further information.  On Tuesday, November 4, Dan Neff and Stephanie Shepherd presented the 2025–26 Single Plans for Student Achievement (SPSAs) for Board approval. Principals Diana Jones of Bishop’s Peak, Nathan Meinert of Laguna Middle School, and Rollin Dickinson of San Luis Obispo High School attended to share highlights from their sites.  The Board approved the SPSAs, which can be viewed here: Elementary SPSAs | Secondary SPSAs Together, these accomplishments and experiences reflect the passion, creativity, and dedication that define the students, educators, and programs throughout the San Luis Coastal Unified School District.  

Saturday, Nov 08 2025

SLCUSD Board Agenda

Regular Board Meeting Agenda Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. (Following 5:00 Closed Session in Room B3) District Office Complex 1500 Lizzie Street - Room J2 San Luis Obispo, CA and  320 Sherwood Drive Paso Robles, CA 93446  

Friday, Oct 31 2025

SLCUSD Family Communication

Family Communication News and Updates from the Superintendent's Office Superintendent's Update Dr. Eric Prater As we move through this unusual season, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the impact the federal government shutdown is having right here in our community. For many of us, it’s easy to think of a “shutdown” as something that happens far away in Washington, D.C. But the truth is - it’s affecting our neighbors, our colleagues, and even some of our families here in San Luis Coastal. Some parents in our schools work for federal agencies and may be experiencing pay delays. Others rely on federal programs that help keep food on the table or cover the essentials. When those supports are interrupted, the effects ripple through our classrooms, workplaces, and neighborhoods. How This Affects Our Community This month, nearly 30,000 people in SLO County will experience a delay in receiving their CalFresh benefits. That means about $6 million normally spent on groceries won’t make it into our local stores and homes when families need it most. When this happens, our community steps up - because that’s what San Luis Obispo County does best. The SLO Food Bank, which already serves more than 45,000 people each month, expects that number to rise sharply in the weeks ahead. They’re expanding their Neighborhood Food Distributions and working closely with their Hunger Relief Network to make sure families have access to the food and support they need. How the School District and the Food Bank Work Together While the SLO Food Bank provides food and resources to families in need, our school district continues to support students and families in other critical ways. We see firsthand how hunger and financial stress can affect a child’s ability to learn and thrive. Our staff, counselors, and food service teams are here to make sure every student has what they need - whether that’s a nutritious meal at school, someone to talk to, or help connecting with local resources. We work in partnership with organizations like the SLO Food Bank, but our roles are different. They provide food and emergency assistance across the county, and we make sure every child in our schools and district is cared for, supported, and ready to learn. How You Can Help If you’re looking for ways to make a difference, here are a few meaningful options: Share with Your Network: Spread the word so neighbors know where to turn for help. Anyone in need of food can call the SLO Food Bank at 805-238-4664 or visit findfoodslo.org to find local food resources. Donate or Volunteer: If you’re able, donations to the SLO Food Bank go directly toward helping families weather this difficult time. They’re also in need of volunteers to help distribute food throughout November. We’re in This Together If your family is directly affected by the shutdown, please reach out to your school office or a trusted staff member. We are here to help connect you with support and resources - no one should feel alone in this. The strength of our community has always been in the way we care for one another. Thank you for showing up with compassion, for your neighbors and for our students. Together, we can make sure that even in challenging times, no one in San Luis Coastal goes hungry or unsupported. With appreciation and care, Eric Business Services Ryan Pinkerton, Assistant Superintendent Budget Update We continue to update our budget page on the district website. Last week, we hosted staff and community forums and I made a video of the presentation shared during those sessions. At both the Board meeting and the forums, I explained the reasons behind our structural deficit, as well as the reductions the Board of Education has already implemented.  This is the final year we will receive SB 1090 Diablo Canyon closure mitigation payments, which amounted to $4.6 million this year. Consequently, we are anticipating the need to reduce our spending by approximately $4.6 to $5 million for the 2026-27 school year.  The next step will be for Dr. Prater to present his recommended reductions at the Board meeting on November 18. We will then seek the Board’s approval of the reductions at the December meeting. Educational Services Lisa Yamashita, Assistant Superintendent Sinsheimer Elementary’s 5th and 6th grade students were thrilled to welcome Emma Bland Smith, California Young Reader Medal award-winning author of The Gardener of Alcatraz: A True Story. The picture book tells the inspiring story of Elliott Michener, a prisoner who found purpose and transformation through gardening on Alcatraz Island. As he cultivated the island’s gardens, he discovered new skills, dignity, and hope—a legacy that endures today through the Gardens of Alcatraz, which continue to symbolize humane treatment and the possibility of personal growth. During her visit, Emma Bland Smith shared her journey as a writer, discussed her research process, and offered insight into bringing historical stories to life. Students eagerly engaged with her presentation, asking thoughtful questions about writing and history. The visit left many young readers and aspiring authors feeling inspired. Special thanks go to the Sinsheimer PTA for financially supporting the library program and to the Sinsheimer library staff for organizing this enriching experience.T The district’s Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) Parent Advisory Committee convened for its first meeting of the year on October 14, 2025, via Zoom, bringing together 33 representatives, including families, staff, union members, and students. The meeting focused on reviewing the committee’s purpose, analyzing achievement data for key subgroups, previewing the annual LCAP surveys, and viewing a live presentation of this year’s LCAP Roadshow. Participants also completed the annual survey, ensuring valuable input from across the district community. At the October 7, 2025 Board meeting, the most recent results from the Spring 2025 California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) were presented. The report highlighted data from the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) in English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science for students in grades 3 through 8 and grade 11. These results will continue to inform instruction and support student learning throughout the district. The Parent Participation Program celebrated the fall season with a series of joyful field trips across San Luis Obispo County. Families enjoyed exploring local destinations together, sharing laughter and learning along the way—it was hard to tell whether the parents or the children had more fun! San Luis Coastal Adult School also had reason to celebrate, as student Juan Vargas achieved an incredible milestone by earning his high school diploma after two and a half years of hard work and dedication. Joined by family, classmates, and staff, Juan proudly donned his cap and gown for a heartfelt celebration complete with smiles, donuts, and coffee. His perseverance and determination serve as an inspiration to all. Laguna Middle School and San Luis Obispo High School AVID students took part in college field trips this month as part of their ongoing college and career readiness journeys. Laguna’s 7th and 8th graders visited the University of California, Santa Barbara, through the Early Academic Outreach Program, which supports students in preparing for college. San Luis Obispo High School AVID students toured the University of California, Santa Cruz, where they connected with SLOHS alumni currently attending the university. The alumni shared their experiences and advice, offering encouragement to AVID seniors as they navigate the college application process. Rounding out the month’s activities, San Luis Coastal sponsored a field trip for 54 juniors and seniors to attend a trades and apprenticeship event at the local Union #403 location. Students learned about apprenticeship programs, explored a wide range of career opportunities in the skilled trades, and heard from local leaders, including politicians, school board members, and union representatives. The event highlighted the importance of the trades and the promising career pathways available to students right here in San Luis Obispo. Pacheco Elementary celebrated Dia de los Muertos Carnaval today with songs and dances. This beloved tradition honors cultural diversity. The Pacheco PTA expressed their appreciation to the ELAC families who worked so hard to organize and prepare activities. The entire parent community came together for a fun afternoon. Altogether, October was a month filled with inspiration, achievement, and opportunity across the district—celebrating learning in all its forms, from classrooms to campuses to career paths.  

Saturday, Oct 25 2025

SLCUSD Board Meeting Agenda

Regular Board Meeting Agenda Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. (Following 5:00 Closed Session)   Los Osos Middle School Library 1555 El Moro Avenue, Los Osos, CA  and 11280 South River Heights Drive, South Jordan, UT 84095

Friday, Oct 17 2025

SLCUSD Family Communication

Family Communication News and Updates from the Superintendent's Office Key Information Board Op-Ed on Funding: Our Board of Trustees recently authored an OpEd highlighting the ongoing challenges and priorities in California’s public school funding system — an important conversation that directly impacts our classrooms and operations. Budget Briefings: You’re invited to join upcoming Staff and Community Budget Briefings to learn more about our district’s financial outlook and priorities. A+ Rating: San Luis Coastal recently received an “A+” grade from a statewide ranking analysis — a reflection of your dedication, professionalism, and the exceptional learning environments you create every day. Golden Bell Award: Our Food and Nutrition Services team was selected for the California School Boards Association Golden Bell Award, recognizing their Vivid Vision initiative and commitment to health, wellness, and equity in student nutrition. Superintendent's Update Dr. Eric Prater Despite the occasional negative noise, public education has always been one of America’s greatest strengths. I’m proud to dedicate my professional life to this vital work. It’s more than classrooms and textbooks - it’s the foundation of opportunity, democracy, and shared prosperity. When we invest in education, we invest in stronger communities and brighter futures for all. Public schools bring our nation’s promise to life by preparing every child to learn, grow, and thrive. They strengthen the economy by developing a skilled workforce, nurture democracy by cultivating informed citizens, and promote fairness by ensuring every student - regardless of background - has access to a high-quality education. Education also benefits society as a whole, improving public health, reducing crime, and helping families build stable, hopeful futures. Bringing Learning to Life: The iINNOVATE Regional Skills Lab Here in our district, we see these values in action through the launch of the iINNOVATE Regional Skills Lab - a bold new initiative bringing monthly, hands-on STEM learning to more than 13,000 students across 35 schools in Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara counties. The idea is simple but powerful: What if real-world learning began right alongside reading, writing, and math? Each month, elementary classrooms receive colorful, ready-to-use kits filled with materials and activities that invite students to tinker, build, and explore key local industries - from healthcare and aerospace to agricultural technology and clean energy. Every lesson also includes short videos featuring local professionals sharing their stories, helping students connect what they learn in school to real careers in our own community. As longtime SLCUSD teacher Katie Peters explains, “At this age, exposure to career possibilities can have a transformative impact. We designed the Skills Lab to bring careers into classrooms so that students can see their potential — not years from now, but today.” Connecting Curiosity with Opportunity The Skills Lab is designed to be fun for students and simple for teachers - every box comes with all the supplies and step-by-step guidance needed for an engaging STEM experience. But beyond the hands-on excitement, the program carries a deeper purpose: equity and opportunity. By introducing career-connected learning in elementary school, we help every child - regardless of background - see themselves as capable, creative, and full of potential. As Christine Robertson, Executive Director of the iINNOVATE Regional Skills Lab, puts it, “Our goal is to give children equitable access to 21st-century learning opportunities that make them feel capable, curious, and confident in their potential.” Supported by the Uplift Central Coast Coalition and aligned with California’s Jobs First strategy, the Skills Lab is more than a STEM program - it’s an investment in our region’s future. It connects learning to local industries, strengthens community partnerships, and helps ensure our students are prepared to lead and succeed in the years ahead. A Shared Vision for the Future Public education has always been about possibility - for our children, our families, and our nation. The iINNOVATE Regional Skills Lab embodies that same spirit of hope and opportunity, showing students that their dreams matter and their futures are within reach. Together, we are preparing students not only for the jobs of tomorrow, but for meaningful, fulfilling lives of purpose, creativity, and contribution. With gratitude and optimism, Eric Business Services Ryan Pinkerton, Assistant Superintendent Staff and Community Budget Briefings We are in the second year of needing to make budget reductions to cure our district’s structural deficit. We will be holding a staff and community budget briefing at the County Office of Education Maintenance and Operations Conference Room, 3420 Watson Drive, SLO, on October 16, 2025. The staff briefing will be held from 4:00 to 5:00pm and the parent/community briefing will be held from 5:30 to 6:30pm. The meeting will review the current budget situation the district is facing, the reductions made to date, and next steps. If you are unable to attend, we have shared the information at our Board meetings (8/19/25 - Budget Update, 9/16/25 - Budget Update), as well as on our district website. I also created the following video of a budget presentation from the September 16 Board Meeting that shares much of the information we will share at the briefings. Next steps: October 16, Staff Briefing 4:00-5:00pm, Community Briefing 5:30 -6:30pm SLOCOE conference room November 18 - Board Meeting: Superintendent will present Superintendent’s Reductions to the Board End of November - SLCUSD will receive Property Tax information December 16 - Board Meeting: 1st Interim Budget, Board approves 2026-27 reductions Human Resources works with staff to implement reductions by March 15, 2026 Food & Nutrition Services Food & Nutrition Services was nationally recognized with the Breakfast Trailblazer Award.  Learn more here.  Also check out SLCUSD Food’s international spin on pizza. Instead of a traditional crust, this recipe uses naan and is topped with pesto sauce, mozzarella, and a mixture of fresh-from-the-earth local vegetables. It flies off the trays. Read more here. Educational Services Lisa Yamashita, Assistant Superintendent In celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month, SLCUSD Libraries invite you to explore the rich contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to our nation’s history and culture. One meaningful way to participate is by watching Pacheco Elementary Librarian Danielle Clarke read aloud from Sembrando historias: Pura Belpré: bibliotecaria y narradora de cuentos (Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré), presented in Spanish. This beautifully illustrated picture book shares the inspiring story of Pura Belpré, New York City’s first Puerto Rican librarian, who brought the cuentos folklóricos of her homeland to American audiences beginning in 1921 and became a champion of bilingual literature. We encourage you to watch this story with your child and reflect on the power of storytelling to preserve culture and spark imagination. English subtitles are available by selecting the CC icon on the video. This book, along with many others by and about Hispanic and Latino Americans, is available in your school library. Encourage your student to ask their librarian for a personalized recommendation. As we continue to plan for the future of our schools, we are also seeking your voice through this year’s YouthTruth Family Survey, which includes the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) feedback questions. By embedding the LCAP questions into one streamlined survey, we hope to reduce the number of surveys sent home while still gathering essential input. Your feedback is critical in helping us prioritize focus areas and resource allocation for the 2026–27 school year. The deadline to complete the survey is Friday, October 24, and you can access it at ytsurvey.org/slcusdfamily25. For context, the LCAP is a three-year plan that outlines how SLCUSD will use Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) funds to support English learners, foster and homeless youth, and socio-economically disadvantaged students. In 2026–27, we will allocate approximately $7 million toward improving academic outcomes for these groups. Our current plan focuses on three core areas: providing rigorous, relevant, and engaging instruction; implementing effective academic interventions; and fostering an intentional culture of care. More information, including English and Spanish versions of the LCAP overview, can be found on our LCAP website, along with this year’s LCAP Roadshow video (Spanish Version)and community presentations. In support of this work, our LCAP Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) will hold its first meeting of the year on Monday, October 13 from 3:45–4:45 PM via Zoom. The meeting will include a review of the PAC’s role, an analysis of achievement data for LCAP student groups, a walkthrough of the LCAP survey, and a live presentation of the LCAP Roadshow. Representatives from families, staff, students, and unions make up this committee, ensuring a broad and diverse range of input. SLCUSD also recently held the first two meetings of the District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC). The cycle began on September 24 with an in-person Parent Education Night, led by Tony Orozco of Disciplina Positiva. This event focused on family well-being and explored the impact of technology and screen time at home. The second DELAC meeting took place on October 9 and included a review of English Learner (EL) data, election of new committee leadership, and feedback on reclassification processes. Assistant Superintendent Mrs. Yamashita presented information on the LCAP, and participants had the opportunity to complete the YouthTruth survey. The next DELAC meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 10, and will be held on Zoom. For your convenience, here is the full schedule of DELAC and EL PAC meetings. Our NextGen Scholars continue to impress with their hard work in academics, athletics, and community service. We invite you to check out their latest achievements by clicking the NextGen Scholars link. In statewide assessment news, the California Department of Education has released the 2024–25 CAASPP and ELPAC results, now available on the Test Results for California’s Assessments website. Meanwhile, within SLCUSD, all English departments and middle school math departments will be trained by the end of October on how to access and utilize STAR assessment data. This year, all students K–12 will use the same screener for reading and English, enabling teachers to identify support needs earlier and align interventions with CAASPP performance. San Luis Coastal Unified School District has been actively participating in the development of a statewide program called the California Youth Behavioral Health Initiative, CYBHI. This program is part of a Master Plan for Mental Health in California, funded by Governor Newsom and the Department of Health and Child Services (DHCS). There are many aspects to the CYBHI program in which SLCUSD has been actively engaged with. Most notably, we are one of only a handful of districts throughout the state to help develop and pilot the CYBHI MultiPayer Fee Schedule.  This MultiPayer Fee Schedule will allow School Counselors and other mental health providers on campuses throughout San Luis Coastal to bill both MediCal and private insurance for mental health services students receive at or through school. There is no cost to parents, no copays or deductible requirements for insurers, and it will not impact insurance covered services students receive outside of the school setting. The goal is to create sustainable funding for counseling and mental health support in schools.  We encourage you to learn more about this program by visiting our SLCUSD CYBHI Website and most importantly watch this quick 2 minute video put together by SLO County Office of Ed about the fee schedule (you might see some of our SLCUSD superstars in it as well!).  HOW CAN YOU HELP? This year, during Parent Data Confirmation we asked for families to provide their insurance information. This is needed for billing insurance for our mental health services, and recouping necessary funds to keep these important programs funded and supported in our schools. Families were also asked to consent to billing for the services provided. If accurate insurance information was provided and you consented to bill for services, then we have all we need to receive some portion of reimbursement for the important programs we provide to your students. If you are unsure if you consented to these services or provided insurance information, you can check your AERIES portal, or complete a POINT OF SERVICE permission slip from your school front office or School Counselor. Watch this short 30 second video to better understand (VIDEO Eng.   VIDEO Span.) If you would like to gain more information about the program please check out our SLCUSD CYBHI Website. The more you know about the program, the more you can help us support this important work that is happening across our schools and communities.  Finally, a key curriculum development is underway in our high schools. Teachers from both Morro Bay and San Luis Obispo High Schools recently gathered to select a new textbook for AP U.S. History. After reviewing four strong options, they invited current APUSH students to participate in the process. Student feedback focused on readability and engagement and played an important role in the final decision. We thank you for your continued involvement in your student’s education and for taking the time to stay informed and engaged. Your voice helps shape a more equitable, responsive, and thriving learning environment for all.  

Friday, Oct 10 2025

SLCUSD Special Board Meeting Agenda

Special Board Meeting Agenda Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 11:00 AM 1500 Lizzie Street, Room B1, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 AND 835 Main Avenue Suite 215 Durango CO 81301

Wednesday, Oct 08 2025

Invitation: Community and Staff Budget Briefings

Click  here  for screen reader version. Click  HERE  for directions from your location.

Wednesday, Oct 08 2025