MLK Community Newsletter

MLK Community Newsletter A few words from Principal Hale Dear MLK Community, For those of you who were able to attend the MLK Commemoration last Monday, you likely left with a full heart. I loved so many aspects of the event, but my favorite moments were the performances by Performing Stars and our own MLK students. Watching our children contribute so beautifully to the celebration of Dr. King’s legacy was truly inspiring. We are still in the midst of our focus on kindness and the Kindness Challenge. At our most recent assembly, Taylor Scripps shared that one of his accomplishments was going a full day without complaining. Another standout moment came from Tae’von Price, who proudly shared that he smiled at twenty people this week. We were also touched by our first grade who made a thank you poster for Chef G for preparing healthy meals for us. As sweet and meaningful as these moments are, the true purpose of the Kindness Challenge is to remind us that these acts are not just for a single week, they are values we strive to live every day. Please be sure to take a look at our upcoming events, including next week’s Steel Drums Concert and opportunities to volunteer with our Dream Team. We could also use a little extra help in the carline. If you have a few minutes around 3:00 and 1:15 on Wednesdays during the week and are willing to support dismissal, please email me. I’d love to hear from you. (ahale@smcsd.org) Wishing you a wonderful weekend. Warmly, Principal Hale Campus Life Lawana Cook - a beloved SSC Schools are shaped by the people who know them best, and at MLK Academy, few people know our community as deeply as Lawana Cook. For twelve years, Lawana has served our district as a Student Success Coach, but her connection to MLK runs far deeper. She is a lifelong Marin City community member and an MLK alum herself. Her children attended MLK, and today, her grandchildren walk the same halls. What stands out most about Lawana is the way she holds our children and families at the center of everything she does. She lives that commitment daily, and reminded me: “I love the babies and the diversity of our community.” Lawana shared that she attends countless birthday parties because she believes in following through on “anything the children want Ms. Lawana to do.” For her, relationships are not symbolic; they are lived, celebrated, and sustained. We are deeply grateful to have Lawana on our team. She embodies the heart of MLK Academy and the strength of the community it serves. The Great Kindness Challenge - Ideas for Home Dates at a glance News from our Dream Team Hello Parents and Guardians of Dr. MLK Jr. Academy, We have a wonderful week ahead at the Nevada Campus and would love for you to join us! First, please join us in the MPR this Wednesday, January 28th at 5:30 PM to cheer on our talented 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade music students at the Winter Steel Drums Concert. It’s going to be a fantastic performance, and we want to fill the room with support for our middle schoolers! Then, start your Friday morning with us! We’ll be hosting our Dream Team Coffee with Principal Hale on Friday, January 30th at 9:00 AM in the MPR. It’s a great, casual space to connect, share ideas for the new year, and ask any questions you might have. We can’t wait to see you there and celebrate our community together! Lastly: SAVE-THE-DATE!! SpringFest Sunday, April 26th from 12:00-3:00 pm. Details below. Winter Steel Drums Concert by 6th, 7th, 8th Grade Music Students Date: Wednesday, January 28th Time: 5:30 pm concert time Location: MPR, Nevada Campus  This event is open to the whole community of TK-8th grade students, families, and staff to come enjoy the talent of our middle school students. Come one, and come all!  Contact Mr. Mer at amerideth@smcsd.org for any questions. Dream Team Last Friday Coffees with Principal Hale: Date: Friday, January 30th Time: 9:00 am Location: MPR Nevada Campus after morning meeting Let’s connect at our January Friday coffee of the month, and bring along any questions and ideas. Reminder: The last new family TK/K 2026-2027 Campus Tour is Friday, February 6 @ 9:00 AM (families are welcome to join at 8:40 AM in MPR ahead of the tour).  Another reminder that registration for the 2026–2027 school year is now open for new students at https://sausalitomarincity.aeries.net/enrollment/ Dream Team & Rise Up 94965: SpringFest: Date: Sunday, April 26th Time: 12:00 - 3:00 pm Location: Nevada Campus A community celebration with crafts, games, music, food and more. Looking for volunteers: please use this Google Sign up form to let us know where you’d like to help. Whether it’s setting up the crafts station, contributing to the silent auction, or helping us pack up at the end of the day, we are so grateful for your time. Thank you for helping us make SpringFest a success! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeeel00Chx4WQlQncZ5E3WciChnfC_77t6py5HlZqMfmHO03g/viewform?usp=header Have a great weekend! The Dream Team Volunteer Info Questions about volunteering at MLK? Email mlkparentdreamteam@gmail.com  Have a great weekend! Your Dream Team Questions or Ideas? Email: MLKparentDreamTeam@gmail.com Website: https://www.mlkdreamteam.com/ Sign up for our Dream Team Newsletter: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfgkh34m4fl3txlRC7wM-Gv2cPHhiw-TtnmsR4BC5Y2YCi0sA/viewform?usp=header News from our RiseUP Foundation Hello Community! SpringFest Is Coming — and We Can’t Wait!  SpringFest is just around the corner, and we’d love your help making it a huge success! There are two meaningful (and fun!) ways you can support our SpringFest fundraiser: Become a SpringFest Sponsor If you—or your business—are interested in sponsoring our SpringFest fundraiser, we’d love to hear from you! Also feel free to share this opportunity with any individuals or companies who might want to get involved. All donations to our school foundation are tax-deductible and include supporter benefits. Contact natasha@riseup94965foundation.org  Donate to Our Silent Auction Our popular silent auction is always a hit! We’re looking for donations such as: Experiences or services Attraction passes or event tickets Restaurant gift certificates Sporting or entertainment events Unique products Weekend stays or vacation homes…and so much more! Would you consider donating an experience and/or item? Submit auction donations here: riseup94965.org/auction-donation Thank you for helping make SpringFest a huge success! Other ways to support: Calling All Grant Writers (and Aspiring Ones!) Interested in grant writing—or curious to learn? RiseUp! is seeking volunteers to help support our grant-writing efforts. This is a great way to make a lasting impact. Reach out to us at president@riseup94965foundation.org to learn more. In Gratitude, RiseUp! 94965 Foundation riseup94965.org/give Community Updates Seals Spring Swim Season Hi Families! Enrollment is open for the Seals Spring Swim Season! Season Details Spring session: February 23 – June 27 (Champs & Banquet Weekend) Registration opened Monday, January 19th: Review Spring registration info here:  https://www.gomotionapp.com/team/recmrssca/page/2026-springmsl What’s Included Weekly Saturday Marin Swim League (MSL) meets (April–June) Monthly USA Swim meets (with optional USA Swimming registration) Seals social events, including the lap-a-thon and end-of-year awards banquet Additional Information Financial aid available for qualified families Spots fill quickly: Record Fall/Winter enrollment and expect to sell out again for Spring—register early to secure your spot  Registration Questions Email: vp@strawberryseals.com Go Seals!

Friday, Jan 23 2026

SMCSD Community Newsletter- Winter Break

Message from the Superintendent Dear SMCSD Community As we head into the holiday season, I want to wish you and your loved ones a joyful and restful holiday. Thank you for the care, trust, and partnership you continue to show our school. Winter break will take place from December 22 through January 6, and students will return to school on Wednesday, January 7. We are especially excited to welcome students back to a brand-new chapter for our district. On January 7 at 8:15 a.m., we invite families and community members to join us for a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at our new building. Come see the new space, enjoy a cup of coffee, and walk with your child to their new classroom as we celebrate this important milestone together. We also encourage you to stay engaged in the weeks ahead: Regular Board Meeting: January 8 at 5:00 p.m., via Zoom and in person at the Board Room, 200 Phillips Drive. Coffee with the Superintendent: January 14 at 9:00 a.m., at the new Nevada campus. Families and community members will have time to walk the campus and explore common spaces. Community Tour of the New Building: January 14 at 5:30 p.m. Facilities and IT Committee Meeting: January 20 at 5:30 p.m., at the new Nevada campus. This will include a guided tour of the new space. LCAP Engagement Meeting: January 27 at 5:30 p.m. We are entering the new year with tremendous momentum, a beautiful new learning environment, and a shared commitment to our students’ success. I look forward to welcoming you back in January and continuing this exciting journey together. Happy Holidays! LaResha Huffman Superintendent   Celebrating our Middle School Girls Soccer Team! Huge shout-out to our MLK–BTG Middle School SCORES Girls Soccer Team, who played their final game of the season on Sunday — 9:15 AM start in 45° weather that felt much colder. For some of the team, this was their first time formally touching a soccer ball. They’ve come so far! Big thanks to Levian for willing this team into existence and leading with so much heart; to our families for on-going support and help with transportation; Ms. Miller for showing up this Sunday to cheer them on; and Platon and Muhammad for making the trek to San Rafael to support all season long. So proud of this team- Emry, Lupita, Kira, Sherlyn, Levian, Vijaya, Osheanna, Skylar, Kira, Giana, Alis, Keziah, Astrid! Already looking forward to the Spring Season! Latest Board Meeting Board Leadership Update The Sausalito Marin City School District Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Trustee Tiziani as Board President, Trustee Lytle as Vice President, and Trustee Diego as Clerk. We look forward to their leadership and continued service to our students, staff, and community. We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Trustee Walters for his dedicated service as Board President in 2025. His leadership and commitment to the district are deeply appreciated. Intent to Return Survey Families are asked to complete the Intent to Return Survey to help the district plan for the upcoming school year. Your response lets us know whether your child plans to return and supports decisions around scheduling, class sizes, and resources. Please take a moment to complete the survey at the link below. Thank you for your time and partnership. Intent to Return Survey Food Services - Parent Survey Happy Holidays! We kindly invite you to complete this brief survey to help us improve our lunch program. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and will play an important role in making the program even better. Thank you for your time and support. Contact: Chef G gpfahl@smcsd.org MLK Jr. Academy Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Families, students, and community members are invited to join us as we celebrate the official opening of the new Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Academy. Please join us on Wednesday, January 7 at 8:15 a.m. at the main entrance for a ribbon cutting ceremony marking this exciting milestone. We look forward to welcoming our community, celebrating our new learning space, and starting the day together as students return to campus. Budget Advisory Recap This past Tuesday, we held a Budget Advisory Committee meeting focused on district finances and upcoming priorities. Thank you to everyone who joined the discussion. If you were unable to attend or would like to revisit the conversation, click here to view the recording. Sensory Sensitive Movie Screening Join Dedication to Special Education for a sensory-friendly screening of Disney’s Zootopia 2 on Saturday, December 13 at 2:00 PM at Larkspur Landing Cinema. This inclusive event is designed to create a comfortable, welcoming movie experience for all families. Admission is free, but registration is required. Reserve your spot today using the Eventbrite link or QR code on the flyer. Contact: Daceia Malone, dmalone@smcsd.org Sibshops-Fun for Siblings Dedication to Special Education invites siblings ages 8–13 to Sibshops, a fun and supportive space just for them. Taking place on Friday, December 12 from 5:00–8:00 PM at the Mill Valley Community Center (Forest Room), this free event gives siblings a chance to play games, connect with peers who “get it,” and build confidence and self-advocacy skills. Dinner is provided. Registration is required—see the flyer for details. Contact: Daceia Malone, dmalone@smcsd.org Vigilant Parenting Training The Marin County Office of Education and the Marin County District Attorney’s Office invite parents and caregivers to a free workshop focused on keeping children safe online. This training will cover youth social media trends, vault apps, privacy and security settings, and practical strategies to prevent online exploitation. Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 PM. Spanish interpretation is available upon request with advance notice. Registration is required—see the flyer for details. Contact: Daceia Malone, dmalone@smcsd.org   Contact Information If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach out via the following links: (415) 332-3190 communications@smcsd.org https://www.smcsd.org  

Friday, Dec 19 2025

Reminder: Budget Advisory Committee Meeting

Our next Budget Advisory Committee (BAC) Meeting will take place tonight, Tuesday, December 16, at 5:30 PM. The meeting will be held via Zoom and is open to all families and community members interested in learning more about the district budget and financial planning. Tuesday, December 16, 2025 5:30 PM Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87906622364 Meeting ID: 879 0662 2364 We hope you can join us.

Tuesday, Dec 16 2025

SMCSD Community Newsletter

Message from the Superintendent Dear SMCSD Community I hope you had a restful and well-deserved Thanksgiving break. This first week back always feels like a reset, and it’s been wonderful seeing our students and staff settle back into their routines with good energy. We have a few important dates ahead that I want to keep on everyone’s radar: Board Meeting – December 11 Our next regular Board Meeting will take place on Thursday, December 11. You’re welcome to join us in person, 200 Phillips Dr., or via Zoom. This meeting will also serve as our annual organizational meeting. Board Retreat – Saturday, December 13 at 10am The Board will hold its retreat on Saturday morning. These sessions help us reflect, plan, and stay aligned on the work ahead. Budget Advisory Committee – Tuesday, December 16 at 5:30pm (Zoom link) All are welcome to join as we continue our collaborative work around the district’s financial planning and priorities. Winter Break Reminder Winter break begins December 22 and runs through January 6. Students will now return on January 7, and the last day of school has been extended to June 11. This slight shift gives our teachers the time they need to unpack and prepare their new classrooms when we return from the break. Click here to view the updated calendar. As we close out the calendar year, I want to express my gratitude for your ongoing support, flexibility, and partnership. Our students thrive because of the dedication of our families, staff, and community. Thank you for everything you do each day! Wishing you a smooth and joyful December. LaResha Huffman Superintendent   Transitional Kindergarten (TK) Planning for 2026–27 The District will conduct a family survey to project TK enrollment for the 2026–27 school year, gather intent-to-return data from current families, and review census and birth rate data for the 94965 ZIP code. This analysis will inform facility and staffing needs. While the District fully supports TK, we currently have a space challenge related to adding more classrooms. Some options that the board may want to explore after further discussion are enrollment caps or a lottery system for TK. Click here to submit. Contact: Nixon Diaz, ndiaz@smcsd.org INTENT TO RETURN SURVEY Food Services Update New School Lunch Item: Pig in a Blanket! We’re excited to announce a fun and tasty addition to our school lunch menu: Pig in a Blanket! This warm, savory favorite—featuring an all- beef hotdog wrapped in a soft, golden biscuit dough. This was a hit in our recent student survey, earning some of the highest ratings from our students. Thank you to everyone who shared feedback. We’re proud to bring student-approved options to the cafeteria, and we hope you enjoy this new menu item! Contact: Chef G, pfahl@smcsd.org Superintendent Huffman Appointed to CSBA Advisory Council We’re proud to share that Superintendent LaResha Huffman has been appointed to the California School Boards Association(CSBA) Superintendent Advisory Council. This statewide group brings together a select team of district leaders who help shape policy, provide insight on emerging issues, and elevate the voices of California’s public schools. Superintendent Huffman’s appointment reflects her strong leadership, her commitment to student success, and the innovative work happening across Sausalito Marin City School District. Her perspective will now help inform statewide conversations while continuing to advocate for the needs of our community. Please join us in congratulating Superintendent Huffman on this well-deserved honor. Marin City Evacuation Exercise – Be Ready Before It’s Real Disasters can strike without warning, and being prepared can make all the difference. The Marin County Fire Department invites all who work or live in Marin City to participate in a community-wide evacuation exercise on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Everyone registered for AlertMarin using a Marin City address will receive a notification signaling the start of the exercise. As part of this event, the Marin City Emergency Siren will also be tested for the first time. Please avoid calling 9-1-1 when you hear the siren, this is only a drill, not an active emergency. This siren system uses loudspeakers to broadcast clear, action-based messages during emergencies. Because it has never been used in Marin City, periodic testing is needed to ensure it is fully functional and ready to support the community. Participating in this exercise helps you practice what to do under pressure, identify any gaps in your plan or supplies, and build confidence in protecting your family, neighbors, and community. To take part, register for AlertMarin using your Marin City address. If you need assistance, call (415) 473-6584 Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. During the exercise: · Participants will be directed to the Temporary Evacuation Point at Marin City Gateway Shopping Center, 190 Donahue St. · This is a slow-motion drill, take your time, evacuate safely using one vehicle, and follow the steps you would take in a real emergency. At the site: · Participants who work or live in Marin City will be entered into a drawing for a Grocery Outlet shopping spree. · County of Marin agencies will be on-site offering resources to help strengthen your emergency preparedness. Emergency preparedness is a shared responsibility. Don’t wait for a real disaster, take action now. Learn how to get prepared at ReadyMarin.org. EVERY STUDENT, EVERY DAY! Hello families, As the holiday season draws closer, we want to remind families that attendance still matters! We encourage families to maintain positive attendance by being mindful of some of the following trends:  Bundling up during the winter season to stay healthy and cold free  Scheduling trips and vacation after we officially break for winter recess Friday December 19, 2025 Planning to return to school promptly on Wednesday January 7, 2026 In the month of December, we are observing our “Finish Strong” Attendance Campaign. Students who attend 13 or more days during the month of December will earn the opportunity to take part in our custom Holiday Hot Chocolate Bar, Friday December 19. See  Contact: Phil Logan plogan@smcsd.org Girls on the Run Bay Area Our nonprofit is dedicated to helping young girls build confidence through running, mentorship, and our nationally recognized empowerment curriculum. We’re proud to offer our after-school program across elementary and middle schools in the Sausalito Marin City School District. We’re excited to share that preparations are underway for our Spring 2026 program, stay tuned for updates! Parent Connection A casual get-together for families of students receiving special education services in Marin County.   Contact Information If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach out via the following links: (415) 332-3190 communications@smcsd.org https://www.smcsd.org  

Saturday, Dec 06 2025

SMCSD Community Newsletter- Thanksgiving Break

Message from the Superintendent Dear SMCSD Community As we head into the Thanksgiving break next week, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for this remarkable community. Our students show up eager to learn, our families continue to show support, and our staff give their very best every day. I hope this break brings you time to rest, reflect, and enjoy special moments with loved ones. School will be closed Monday, November 24 through Friday, November 28. We look forward to welcoming students back on Monday, December 1. I also want to share a few important updates to our school calendar. The last day of school has been extended by two days and is now June 11. Winter Break will also be extended by two days and will now run from December 22 through January 6, with classes resuming on January 7. These two extra days will allow teachers the time they need to unpack, set up, and prepare their new classrooms in our new school building. When students return after Winter Break, they will begin the second half of the school year in our brand-new space, an exciting milestone for all of us. Looking ahead, we have several opportunities for families to stay engaged: Board Meeting – Thursday, December 11 Budget Advisory Committee (Zoom) – Tuesday, December 16 Coffee with the Superintendent – Wednesday, December 17 at 9:00 AM Thank you to everyone who joined us for the recent Special Education Town Hall and Dinner & Data night. These gatherings help us strengthen our partnership, share progress, and celebrate the many wins happening across our district. I encourage you to keep marking your calendars and participating. Wishing you a restful and joyful Thanksgiving break. See you December 1. In community, LaResha Huffman   Transitional Kindergarten (TK) Planning for 2026–27 The District will conduct a family survey to project TK enrollment for the 2026–27 school year, gather intent-to-return data from current families, and review census and birth rate data for the 94965 ZIP code. This analysis will inform facility and staffing needs. While the District fully supports TK, we currently have a space challenge related to adding more classrooms. Some options that the board may want to explore after further discussion are enrollment caps or a lottery system for TK. Click here to submit. Contact: Nixon Diaz, ndiaz@smcsd.org INTENT TO RETURN SURVEY SMCSD Afterschool Programming for 2026-2027 School Year and Summer Programming for 2026 SMCSD will be engaging in an RFP process to select a new afterschool provider for the 2026-2027 school year. The RFP will be released in December and more information will be discussed at December’s school board meeting.  We will also make announcements about SMCSD summer programming in December. Contact: Liz Henry, ehenry@smcsd.org Turkey Drive Thank you to Dr. G, Student Government, and Chef G for organizing such a thoughtful and generous Turkey Drive. They gave away 25 turkeys and nearly cleared out the entire food pantry supply! It’s inspiring to see our students step into leadership and give back to our community with such care and purpose. SpEd Town Hall Thank You! 11/17/25 Presenter Mike Webb joined us to highlight how neuroscience informs teaching, learning, and well-being. The District was also honored to host a panel which included the SELPA Director-Rebecca Minnich, the special education attorney for the District-Lenore Silverman, as well as our very own principal and resource teacher-Principal Hale and Julianne Edmondson, respectively.  Thank you for joining us that night! Contact: Daceia Malone, dmalone@smcsd.org LCAP Engagement: Dinner and Data Thank you to all of the staff, families, community partners and students who came to our LCAP engagement event on November 18! It was a night of celebration for the academic growth and progress our district has made towards reaching our LCAP goals. We also received essential feedback around improving our LCAP action plan to continue progressing forward. Contact: ehenry@smcsd.org Volunteers Needed! We are looking for volunteers to provide support for our SMCSD food pantry. Our pantry operates weekly, every Wednesday morning, from 8:30am-11:00am. If you are interested in serving, please sign up here: SMCSD Food Pantry Volunteer Form. Contact: Phil Logan, plogan@smcsd.org Marin’s Community Foundation Marin’s Community Foundation has launched a website soliciting donations specifically to support families that will be impacted by the CalFresh disruption expected to begin on Saturday. This donation portal represents the countywide effort. Please feel free to share with your staff and families. A focused effort on monetary donations, in lieu of food drives (although those may arise, too), was made because of concerns about food distribution locations being tracked by ICE. Play time at Marindale Families of children ages 8 and under who receive special education services are invited to join Dedication to Special Education for a morning of play and connection! Enjoy an accessible playground, both indoor and outdoor play areas, and fun—rain or shine. When: Monthly on Saturdays, 10am–12pm Where: Marindale School, 850 Del Ganado Rd., San Rafael Next sessions: Dec 6, Jan 10, Mar 7, May 2, Jun 6   Contact Information If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach out via the following links: (415) 332-3190 communications@smcsd.org https://www.smcsd.org  

Saturday, Nov 22 2025

SMCSD Community Newsletter 11/10/2025

Message from the Superintendent Dear SMCSD Community As your Superintendent, I am thrilled to share that Sausalito Marin City School District has made tremendous growth. This growth reflects the hard work, dedication, and collective effort of all staff, our students, parents and community. Change is never easy, but our focus on shifting mindset, Special Education supports, Professional Learning Community (PLC) collaboration, data analysis, new curriculum implementation, and targeted interventions has made a measurable difference for our students. A special thank you to our partners at Bridge the Gap who continue to support our intervention efforts. One of the goals for me as Superintendent has been to reduce and close the gaps between African-American and Latino students and we have done that in 2 years. Our students’ success tells the story: +6% increase in students meeting or exceeding standards in ELA. Double-digit gains for African American and Latinx students in both ELA and Math. Students with Disabilities showed growth of +16% in ELA and +10% in Math. SMCSD outperformed the state average in Math and matched or exceeded Marin County growth in ELA. These results highlight that our collective focus on equity, data, and high-quality instruction is working. We are closing gaps, accelerating learning, and building a stronger academic foundation for all students, especially our students of color and students with exceptional needs. Special Education Town Hall: Empowering Every Learner Monday, November 17th | 5:00–7:30 PM Join us for an evening dedicated to collaboration and inclusion. We will share updates on special education services, celebrate our students’ progress, and engage in meaningful dialogue about how we can continue empowering every learner. Dinner & Data Night Tuesday, November 18th | 5:30–7:30 PM Superintendent Huffman, Cabinet Members, teachers, and students will host a community conversation focused on student data, academic growth, and next steps to support success for all students. Dinner will be provided from 5:30–6:00 PM followed by table discussions and a data presentation. Board Meeting Thursday, November 13th | 5:00 PM. Click here to view agenda. Tuesday, November 11- Veterans Day (No School) We honor and thank all who have served. Parent-Teacher Conferences November 17th–21st Conferences provide a valuable opportunity for families and educators to connect about student progress and goals. Thanksgiving Break November 24th–28th We wish all families a restful and joyful holiday. As the holidays near, let’s celebrate the kindness, diversity, and unity that make our district family so special. I’m proud of all we’ve accomplished together and honored to serve this incredible community. In partnership, LaResha Huffman   MLK Academy Latest Newsletter   Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day November 14, 2025 Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day is taking place Friday, November 14. Students, families, and community members will honor the legacy of Ruby Bridges by marching from our District Office to our school site. There are 2 entry points to participate. Marchers can meet our staff at our district office at 7:45am (200 Phillips Drive) or at MLK Park at 8:10am (610 Coloma Street). See flyer attached for details and join the race! Contact: Phil Logan, plogan@smcsd.org Dinner and Data LCAP November 18, 2025 Our district will host Dinner and Data/ LCAP night Tuesday, November 18. Come and learn about the work that SMCSD is doing to accelerate outcomes for our students and families. See Flyer attached for details. Contact: communications@smcsd.org Transitional Kindergarten (TK) Planning for 2026–27 The District will conduct a family survey to project TK enrollment for the 2026–27 school year, gather intent-to-return data from current families, and review census and birth rate data for the 94965 ZIP code. This analysis will inform facility and staffing needs. While the District fully supports TK, we currently have a space challenge related to adding more classrooms. Some options that the board may want to explore after further discussion are enrollment caps or a lottery system for TK. Click here to submit. Contact: Nixon Diaz, ndiaz@smcsd.org INTENT TO RETURN SURVEY Music Program Location (2026 and Beyond) Per the 2023–24 agreement following the relocation of the middle school to Sausalito, the music program will operate in the TK/K Wing. Soundproofing modifications, identified as a significant facilities project are scheduled for summer 2026. This work was not included in the original Measure P budget and will require additional planning and funding. Portable Classrooms and Facilities Considerations All existing portables will be removed to accommodate the DSA approved Field construction. Any new portables must receive Division of the State Architect (DSA) approval, a process that can take a year or longer. Current cost estimates are approximately $575,000 for a three-year lease or $800,000 for purchase, noting that districts may no longer lease portables beyond three years under new state law. Any delay in portable placement or facility relocation may impact the middle school demolition and Creek Project timelines, both funded through Measure P. To explore long-term options, staff will request DSA plans for possible portable placement in the TK/K yard or upper campus parking lot, though both options have significant drawbacks, including cost, loss of play space or parking, and reduced security. At this time, no additional classroom space is available, and all existing office space has been repurposed. After site review, facilities staff and administration are in full agreement regarding next steps and current constraints. Contact: Facilities@smcsd.org SMCSD Summer Program 2026 SMCSD will be releasing information about summer programming in December 2025. SMCSD Extended Learning Update SMCSD will be seeking applications for a new after school program provider for the 2026-2027 school year. We will be releasing an RFP in the coming months to select a provider who meets all required funding and program components.  Volunteers Needed! We are looking for volunteers to provide support for our SMCSD food pantry. Our pantry operates weekly, every Wednesday morning, from 8:30am-11:00am. If you are interested in serving, please sign up here: SMCSD Food Pantry Volunteer Form. Contact: Phil Logan, plogan@smcsd.org Marin’s Community Foundation Marin’s Community Foundation has launched a website soliciting donations specifically to support families that will be impacted by the CalFresh disruption expected to begin on Saturday. This donation portal represents the countywide effort. Please feel free to share with your staff and families. A focused effort on monetary donations, in lieu of food drives (although those may arise, too), was made because of concerns about food distribution locations being tracked by ICE. Play time at Marindale Families of children ages 8 and under who receive special education services are invited to join Dedication to Special Education for a morning of play and connection! Enjoy an accessible playground, both indoor and outdoor play areas, and fun—rain or shine. When: Monthly on Saturdays, 10am–12pm Where: Marindale School, 850 Del Ganado Rd., San Rafael Next sessions: Dec 6, Jan 10, Mar 7, May 2, Jun 6 We Wear Green November is recognized nationwide as National Youth Homelessness Awareness Month (NYHAM)—a time to bring attention to the challenges faced by children and youth experiencing homelessness and to strengthen our collective efforts to prevent it.   Since Congress first recognized this observance in 2007, November has served as an opportunity to elevate awareness, honor the organizations and individuals who support youth without stable housing, and renew our shared commitment to ensuring that every young person has a safe, supportive place to call home. Wear green on Thursday, November 13, to show your support for youth experiencing homelessness.   Contact Information If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach out via the following links: (415) 332-3190 communications@smcsd.org https://www.smcsd.org  

Tuesday, Nov 11 2025

SMCSD Community Newsletter 10/21/25

Message from the Superintendent Dear SMCSD Community I hope you are enjoying the Fall season and all the good things that come with it. I want to take a moment to thank each of you for getting this school year off to such a strong start. Over the past three years, we have faced big challenges and achieved incredible milestones, many of which were highlighted in our Annual Report. None of this would be possible without the dedication of our teachers, support staff, and everyone who works tirelessly behind the scenes, each day, including our amazing volunteers. This year, we will be revisiting our Strategic Plan goals, as we have already surpassed many of them. We will take time to review our data, share updates through the Annual Report, and gather feedback from our teachers to help guide our next steps. Please join us tonight, Tuesday, October 21, at 5:00 p.m. for a regular Board Meeting, followed by a Town Hall about the field project at 5:30 p.m. We have begun reaching out to potential donors to help bring this project to life. If you know any potential donors who might support our effort, please help us spread the word. If you missed my weekend letter, you can read it here. You can join tonight's Board Meeting in person at 200 Phillips Dr., or via Zoom by clicking here. To view the full agenda, click here. As the holidays approach, let’s remember to be kind to one another and celebrate the beautiful diversity that makes our school community so special. I’m excited to see the progress we’re making together and proud to serve as superintendent of such an incredible community. In partnership, LaResha Huffman   Message from the Principal Dear Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Academy Community,  We’re off to a wonderful start at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Academy. Classroom cultures are taking root, and all of the children dance by my window and wave with such enthusiasm each time they walk by. It’s probably my favorite part of the day, besides hearing the school song at our TK–5 assembly last week. Those voices, those lyrics - it’s the sweetest thing. Please know that families are always welcome to join us on Fridays for our short, schoolwide assembly, which includes an MLK Way talk, updates, recognitions, and of course, the singing of our school song. This month, a parent conversation reminded me of a shift I made in my own dinner table dialogue with my now almost-grown children. When they were young, I would ask, “Did you have a good day?” And unsurprisingly, I always got the same one-word response: “Yes” So, I changed my approach. I introduced a little ritual we called “apples and onions” which included the sharing of the best part of the day (the apple) and the not-so-great moment (the onion). This practice grew into storytelling, problem solving, and often belly laughing. I still remember some of the stories they told me. I got the best details out of them.  Talking with our children is so important. While they may not always want to share, catching them at the right moment, and with the right question, can open doors. Instead of closed questions, try prompts that invite a story: What made you feel proud today? What’s the coolest thing you learned today? How did you help a friend today? Tell me about recess: Who did you play with, and what did you do? I can’t wait to hear about the stories that will unfold at your tables. Maybe you’ll even hear about the impromptu basketball practice I’ve been running during recess. I’m working on everyone’s left hand.  With gratitude and excitement for all that’s ahead, Principal Hale MLK Academy Latest Newsletter   Student Data Summit We will be reviewing our 2024 CAASPP Data and beginning of the year student data at our November Board Meeting. Please join us to celebrate the growth we’ve made and learn about the strategies we are putting in place for continued success. Contact: Elizabeth Henry   Parent & Caregiver Education Series Delaying Social Media. Together presented by ScreenSense. October 29th, 6:30 - 7:45 pm via Zoom. English & Spanish flyer. Register here. Reeling in Social Media Use. What Parents Need to Know presented by ScreenSense. November 5th, 6:30 - 7:45 pm via Zoom. English & Spanish flyer. Register here. Strengthening Partnerships for Students with Disabilities Join the California Department of Education and Seeds of Partnership for a free monthly webinar series focused on building stronger connections between families and educators. Each session explores communication strategies, family engagement, and best practices to support students with disabilities. See flyer attached. Playtime at Marindale Families of children ages 8 and under who receive special education services are invited to join a morning of play and connection at Marindale School in San Rafael. Enjoy accessible indoor and outdoor play spaces—rain or shine—on select Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. No RSVP needed! See flyer Counted Out The Marin County Office of Education is excited to host a special community screening of the documentary Counted Out, directed and produced by Vicki Abeles. This film explores how math education, shaped by technology, data, and algorithms, impacts equity, opportunity, and the future success of our students. Watch the trailer here. Join the Marin COE Team on Thursday, October 30th from 5:30 – 7:45 PM. Filmmaker Vicki Abeles will join us for a conversation following the screening. REGISTRATION.   Bienvenidos Good afternoon families and community,  Join us for our second district community engagement of the year! (Tuesday ​October 28, 2025) As Hispanic Heritage Month comes to a close we will use the evening to highlight the stories, customs and contributions of our Latino/ Hispanic families and community members. We look to see you there! Contact: Phil Logan   Latest Board Meeting   Contact Information If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach out via the following links: (415) 332-3190 communications@smcsd.org https://www.smcsd.org  

Tuesday, Oct 21 2025

Join Us in Revitalizing Phillips Field

SAUSALITO MARIN CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT Students First    |    Belonging    |    Accountability  October 18, 2025 Dear Families, Community Members, and Friends, I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to share an exciting and important update about a project that has been years in the making — the revitalization of Marin City Field. For more than two decades, this historic field has sat unused, representing both a missed opportunity and a call to action for all of us who care deeply about the future of our students and our community. Thanks to the support of our voters and the passage of Measure P, the Sausalito Marin City School District has secured $3.5 million in bond funding to begin this transformation. However, to bring the project fully to life, we need an additional $2 million to launch construction in April 2026 and complete Phase 1 by fall 2026 — before state approvals expire in early 2027. A Field that Represents Equity, Community, and Hope Marin City is a vibrant and resilient community, rich in culture and spirit. Nearly 70 percent of our students identify as Black or Latino, and many live in areas historically under-resourced when it comes to access to safe, high-quality recreational spaces. The revitalization of Marin City Field represents far more than turf and track — it symbolizes equity, belonging, and opportunity for every child and family we serve. As I’ve shared with many of you, our students deserve a space that reflects pride in their community and belief in their potential. This project is about creating a shared place for learning, play, and connection — a true community hub for generations to come. The Project and Its Vision Phase 1  of the project will deliver a new, multi-sport turf field and running track designed for soccer, football, and rugby. Future phases will include lighting, a baseball diamond, and additional outdoor learning and recreation areas. These enhancements could bring the total project cost to over $8–10 million, with Phase 2 estimated to exceed $3 million. Importantly, Phillips Field will remain a public community asset governed by California’s Civic Center Act (Education Code §§ 38130–38138), which ensures that public school facilities are available for community use when not being used for school purposes. Town Hall Invitation We invite all families, community members, funders, and partners to join us for a Town Hall Meeting on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 200 Phillips Drive in Marin City. During this meeting, we will share updates on the Measure P Bond, field design plans, project timelines, and opportunities for partnership and giving. How You Can Help We are asking for your partnership and generosity to help make this dream a reality. If you, your organization, or your foundation is interested in supporting the revitalization of Marin City Field, please contact me directly. Contributions of any size will help create a lasting impact for students, families, and the community as a whole. Contact Information Office of the Superintendent Sausalito Marin City School District ndiaz@smcsd.org | (415) 332-3190 x104 Together, we can restore Marin City Field as a place where students thrive, families gather, and our community shines. Thank you for your continued belief in our mission and your unwavering support of our children. With gratitude and hope, LaResha Huffman Superintendent Sausalito Marin City School District

Saturday, Oct 18 2025

Thank You for Your Continued Support of Phillips Field

SAUSALITO MARIN CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT Students First    |    Belonging    |    Accountability  October 10, 2025  Dear Parents, Guardians, and Community Members, On behalf of the Sausalito Marin City School District Board of Trustees, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to each of you for your passionate engagement and advocacy regarding the future of Phillips Field. Your voices were heard, and your commitment to ensuring this project reflects the needs and values of our community has made a meaningful impact. At our most recent Board meeting, President Walters shared the following statement after closed session: “In closed session, the Board discussed price and terms of potential agreements related to Phillips Field. The Board determined it needed to reconsider those provisions and potential agreements. As a result, the Board is pausing all negotiations at this time.” In response to community feedback, the Mill Valley Soccer Club has withdrawn its interest in the field revitalization project. The Board respects and appreciates the thoughtful input that led to this outcome and remains committed to ensuring that Phillips Field serves the entire Marin City and Sausalito community equitably. Moving forward, the Board is actively encouraging recognized local community groups to take the lead in fundraising and partnership efforts to bring the field to life. Over the next 120 days, the District will: Encourage active fundraising from local organizations to support improvements to Phillips Field. Provide official letters of support to groups requesting them to assist with their fundraising efforts. Work collaboratively with community organizations to develop fair-use agreements for scheduled access to the field. Retain District oversight of the facility, ensuring that no single group has exclusive control and that all use complies fully with the Civic Center Act, which guarantees public access to school facilities for community benefit. Ensure community access so that the field remains an open, shared space for students, families, and the public. Continue District-led fundraising efforts and encourage cooperation among all interested community partners. We are proud of the community’s collective advocacy and the collaboration that continues to define this project. Together, we can transform Phillips Field into a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable resource for generations to come. The District will host a Town Hall meeting on  Tuesday, October 21, from 5:30–7:00 p.m. at 200 Phillips Drive, in place of our regular Facilities Meeting. This in-person session will provide an overview of the Phillips Field project, updates on Measure P, and an opportunity to address community questions. Additional details will be shared soon on the District website and via ParentSquare. Thank you again for your partnership, passion, and unwavering support for our students and community. With appreciation, LaResha Huffman Superintendent Sausalito Marin City School District  

Friday, Oct 10 2025

Phillips Field Update

SAUSALITO MARIN CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT Students First    |    Belonging    |    Accountability  October 7, 2025  Dear Sausalito Marin City School District Community,  Thank you for your letters and for your continued advocacy on behalf of students and families in Marin City and Sausalito. We recognize and deeply value the important role that all sports programs play in expanding access to competitive soccer, football, baseball, track and field for local youth, particularly those who have historically faced barriers to participation. At this time, the Sausalito Marin City School District Board of Trustees has not entered into any final agreement with the Mill Valley Soccer Club (MVSC) or any other organization regarding the Phillips Field. We remain in ongoing negotiations, and no decision has been finalized. Our Board’s commitment is clear: Phillips Field must serve as a community asset that provides opportunities for students and families across Marin City, Sausalito, Mill Valley, and beyond. Project Timeline and Funding Needs The Phillips Field project has been in planning for more than a decade. Unfortunately, the field has been unusable for over 10 years. With the community’s support of Measure P, the District now has $3.5 million in funds to bring the project to life. However, to start Phase 1 of construction, we require an additional $1.5–$2 million. Our goal is to begin construction in April 2026 and complete the field by September/October 2026. Phase 1 will deliver a multi-sport field and track that can support soccer, football, and rugby. For Phase 2, the District has provided PlayMarin with a letter of support to share with potential funders; this phase could add lighting, a baseball diamond, and other enhancements to further expand the field’s use. Importantly, the Division of the State Architect (DSA) plans for Phillips Field will expire in early 2027. If the District does not act before then, we would need to restart the entire state approval process, losing time and increasing costs. Equity, Access, and Community Use We understand the community’s concerns about ensuring fair and equitable access to Phillips Field. The Board is committed to ensuring that the field is available to multiple organizations that serve our students and families. Groups like Play Marin, Marin City Sausalito FC, and Mill Valley Soccer Club all provide athletic and developmental opportunities for youth, and we want this space to reflect the diversity and inclusiveness of our broader community. While funding partnerships are critical to moving the project forward, the District will not give up its oversight or responsibility for managing Phillips Field. The field is public property, and any agreement must comply with the Civic Center Act to guarantee fair community access. The Civic Center Act is a California state law (Education Code §§38130–38138) that requires public schools to make their facilities available for community use when not being used for school purposes. We also recognize that beyond funding, this project touches on issues of equity, inclusion, and trust. We are mindful of these dynamics and are working carefully to ensure a process that honors our students and community. Next Steps We are committed to transparency and will continue to provide accurate information as negotiations continue. We also value input from all community stakeholders and will ensure that any final agreement reflects the District’s priorities.  Prioritize Student access and equitable use. Fiscal responsibility and completion of the project within available resources. Long-term community benefit. Begin construction in April 2026 and complete the field by September/October 2026.  The next opportunity for public discussion will be at the Board of Trustees Meeting on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 5:00 PM. All community members are welcome to participate, either in person or online. A Zoom link for the meeting is available on our district website. Following the board meeting, we will schedule a Town Hall to provide further discussion about the field. We appreciate the strong voices in our community, and we look forward to continued dialogue as we work toward a solution that ensures Phillips Field is finally restored as a vibrant, inclusive space for all children. In Partnership, LaResha Huffman  On behalf of the Sausalito Marin City School District Board of Trustees  

Tuesday, Oct 07 2025