Superintendent Community Newsletter - October 16, 2026

Superintendent's Message October 16, 2026 Dear JUHSD Community, Help Us Spread the Word! JUHSD High School Fair on October 21 Choosing a high school is an exciting milestone for students and families, and I want to make sure every family has the opportunity to discover all that Jefferson Union High School District has to offer! I invite all middle school students and families in Daly City, Brisbane, Pacifica, and Colma to join us for the JUHSD High School Fair on Wednesday, October 21, from 6–7:30 p.m. at the JUHSD District Office, Building A, 123 Edgemont Drive. Our four comprehensive high schools offer wonderful opportunities for students to explore their interests, discover their strengths, and prepare for their futures. From rigorous academics and career technical education pathways to athletics, arts, clubs, and extracurricular activities, there are many ways for students to find their place and thrive. What makes our schools truly special is the people who bring these opportunities to life. Our dedicated teachers and staff build meaningful relationships with students, support their individual needs, and create learning environments where every student feels a sense of belonging. We are committed to equity, ensuring all students have access to the resources, experiences, and opportunities they need to succeed. Help us spread the word! If you have a middle school student in your family or know a family with a middle school student, please share this invitation with them. We want every family in our community to know about the incredible opportunities available through JUHSD. The High School Fair is a chance to meet school representatives, learn about our programs, ask questions, and begin imagining what the next chapter of a student's educational journey could look like. Thank you for helping us connect with our future students and families. I am proud of our schools, the dedicated educators who serve our students, and the opportunities we create together. I look forward to welcoming our future JUHSD community! With Appreciation, Toni Presta Superintendent Explore JUHSD Schools! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn more about JUHSD’s high schools! Families are invited to attend the District High School Fair and school-site Open Houses to discover the academic programs, Career Technical Education pathways, athletics, activities, counseling and wellness supports, and unique opportunities available at each of our schools. District High School Fair 📅 October 21 at 6:00 p.m. 123 Edgemont Drive - Daly City Oceana High School 📅 November 4 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 ohs.juhsd.net Terra Nova High School 📅 November 12 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 tnhs.juhsd.net Jefferson High School 📅 November 19 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 jhs.juhsd.net Thornton High School | Remote Independent Study 📅 February 10 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 ths.juhsd.net Come explore our campuses, meet educators, learn about programs and supports, and discover the opportunities available to help every student find their path to success. We look forward to welcoming prospective students and families! Election Day is November 3! Make your voice heard and remember to vote! Want to learn more about Measure M? Visit the Jefferson Union High School District website for informational resources to help you understand the measure. Stay informed and make a plan to participate in this year’s election. A Message from the JUHSD Wellness Department We need your help to keep our district's student support programs running. Our district is participating in the California Youth Behavioral Health Initiative Program (CYBHI), which requires health insurance companies to reimburse schools for the counseling and wellness services students already receive. These are the regular services our school counselors, wellness staff, and school psychologists have always provided on campus to all students. ALL JUHSD families received a consent form to collect health insurance information. You should have received a consent form in your email asking for your health insurance information. If you have not filled it out yet, please do so by October 30th, 2026. We will send the email link again soon. Thank you for helping us protect and maintain vital support services for our students! If you have any questions, please contact Michelle Fortunado-Kewin at mkewin@jeffersonunion.net or 650-550-7944. You may also visit our website: www.juhsd.net/wellness. Community Coming Together! Last night’s College, Career, and Community Resource Fair at Serramonte Mall was a huge success! A heartfelt thank you to our JUHSD CTE and Wellness Team for organizing this wonderful event and bringing our community together! A special shout-out to Karina Gamez for her hard work and dedication in helping make this event a success! We’re also grateful to all of our collaborative partners, especially Serramonte Mall, and every vendor who shared their time, resources, and expertise with our community. Your commitment to connecting students, families, and community members with valuable resources and opportunities makes a meaningful difference! When we work together, we create stronger connections and open doors to brighter futures. Thank you to everyone who helped make this event such a success! Link to Parking and Shuttle Info Thornton Students Head to Chinatown "Chinatown Rising" documentarian Josh Chuck led Thornton students on a social justice tour of Chinatown during Intercession Week. Students were able to make connections of the Chinese immigrant community's struggles with our local community's realities around affordable housing and immigration. The week’s best performances by San Mateo County high school athletes - JHS Student Deondre Chism SM Daily Journal Deondre Chism, Jefferson football. In their first league game out of the PAL Lake Division since 2022, the Grizzlies made it look easy with a 40-3 victory at Fremont-Sunnyvale. Chism scored three times, all on glorious chunks of yards. He opened the game with a carry out of the double wing-T and took it 66 yards for a TD. He bettered that distance later in the night by going the distance on a 75-yard scoring run. He also hauled in a 21-yard scoring catch on a slant pattern on a pearl of a throw from freshman quarterback Jeremiah Hodge. Congratulations, TNHS Marching Band! 🎶🥁 Congratulations to the Terra Nova High School Marching Band for earning 3rd place in their category at this past weekend’s marching band competition in Gilroy! 🏆 We are proud of our talented students and grateful for the dedication, teamwork, and hard work they bring to their performances. Way to represent TNHS! 💙 Future Sharks in the Making! 8th-grade students from Cabrillo and FDR visited Oceana High School to explore student life at OHS and learn more about its exciting Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways in Culinary Arts and Computer Science! 🍳💻 These visits give students an opportunity to discover new interests, explore hands-on learning experiences, and imagine the possibilities ahead as they prepare for high school. We love connecting with our future Sharks and helping students discover the many pathways available to them! 🦈 WHS Computer Science Students Exploring Future Possibilities! Westmoor High School Computer Science students recently visited San Francisco State University (SFSU) for an opportunity to explore higher education and learn more about pathways in technology and computer science. Experiences like these help students connect classroom learning to future college and career opportunities while expanding their vision of what’s possible! JUHSD Board Meeting Highlights - October 13, 2026 JUHSD October 13, 2026 Board agenda Watch the recorded meeting through the JUHSD YouTube Channel October 13 Board Meeting Highlights Career Technical Education Update Maintenance and Operations Update Additional Information and Upcoming Board meetings The next regularly scheduled Board Meeting will take place on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. Public open session begins at 7:00 pm (unless otherwise noted) on the JUHSD YouTube channel and in person at the New District Office, 123 Edgemont Drive, Daly City. JUHSD Governance Calendar Board Agendas Online Meet Our Trustees In Memoriam JUHSD has a longstanding tradition of honoring members of our beloved community who have passed. In order to ensure that we are informed, we ask that you follow a new process. If you would like a community member's passing to be acknowledged at a Board meeting, please complete the form and submit it by the Wednesday prior to that Board meeting. Student Programs, Events, and Contest Registration for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is now open! Since 2016, over 50,000 middle and high schoolers across the United States have created apps representing their passions, values, and service to our community. Entries due October 26 at 9am. Environmental Youth Leadership Summit (Students, Grades 6–12) New! Saturday, November 14, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Register by October 30 This summit is organized by students for students across San Mateo County, to help young people take action toward a sustainable future. Students will work together, solve problems and meet peers who share their interests. Breakfast, lunch, and transportation are provided. Learn more. Respect! 24/7 PSA Competition (6-12 Grade Students) New! Due November 1, 2026 The Respect! 24/7 PSA Competition invites students in grades 6-12 to use their creativity and voices to help build safer, more inclusive, and respectful school communities. Learn more. Second Annual Student Art Contest: "America 250" (Middle & High School Students) New! Submissions due Friday, November 6, at 5:00 p.m. Assemblymember Diane Papan and Supervisor Lisa Gauthier invite students ages 11–18 to submit original, two-dimensional, non-digital artwork on the theme "America 250: The American Experience reflected in San Mateo County." Students must live in Supervisor Gauthier's district or attend school in East Palo Alto, Menlo Park, North Fair Oaks, or Redwood City. Winners get their art displayed in district and county offices, a private lunch with both officials, and recognition on social media. Learn more. Family Resources What parents should know about teens’ reliance on AI for mental health support Parent Support Groups through the Children's Council Learn More Get Storm Ready (Community Members, Students, and Families) New! Forecasters expect a very strong El Niño this winter, which raises the odds of heavy storms and high-tide flooding in San Mateo County. Take these steps to prepare and keep your household safe, informed, and dry. Learn more. Student Cancer Education, Detection, and Prevention (SCEDAP) Awareness Week (TK-12 Educators, Community Members, Students, and Families) New! October 12-16 Student Cancer Education, Detection, and Prevention (SCEDAP) Awareness Week is a statewide initiative that equips students with the knowledge to make informed health decisions through education on cancer prevention and early detection. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s California Society of Emerging Leaders has created a new standards-aligned curriculum that includes classroom presentations, interactive activities, and school-wide engagement opportunities that can be adapted to fit a school's schedule and students' needs. Learn more and access the curriculum. Sign up for implementation support. Start the Conversation: What Parents Should Know About Teen Dating Violence October 14, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Empower your teen to have healthy relationships! Learn common myths about teen dating violence, the cycle of abuse, and how to talk with your teen about relationships. Learn more. "The Invisible Mammal" Film Screening (Community & Educators) Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The Citizens Environmental Council presents a free screening of a 90-minute documentary about the fight to save North American bats. Afterward, filmmaker Kristin Tièche will answer questions and talk about a strategy developed by women scientists that could help bat populations recover. The event is free, but you need to register in advance. Learn more. 2026 Commuter Survey (TK-12 Educators, Community Members, Students aged 18+, and Families) New! Complete by October 31 Commute.org is conducting the 2026 Commuter Survey, which will help us better understand how people who live or work in San Mateo County commute, including travel patterns, transportation choices, and what could make commuting easier. The survey is open to adults age 18 or older who are currently employes or attending college and takes approximately 5-8 minutes to complete. Responses are anonymous and confidential. Participants can enter an optional drawing for one of ten $100 e-gift cards. Access a marketing toolkit. Access the survey (opens October 1). Daly City /Colma Chamber of Commerce Events Calendar Housing Support HIP Housing offers a range of housing services including rental housing, supportive housing for low-income parents and former foster youth, home sharing, and senior programs. Learn more. Food Resources The County of San Mateo provides resources for families facing food insecurity. Learn more. Know Your Rights Support Services - Learn More Center for Immigration Legal & Support - Learn More Accessing Oral Health Care Public Health Resources Learn more. San Mateo County Health Vaccine Guidance: (English | Spanish). San Mateo County Health Information: SMC Mobile Clinic Schedule Health Coverage Enrollment Assistance for Low- to Mid-income Residents or San Mateo Medical Center Patients (in English and Spanish) Understanding the California School Dashboard: What parents need to know | EdSource Youth Unlimited (K-12 Students) SamTrans provides free bus travel for eligible students. Learn more. Instagram Scan the QR code or @juhsd1 and use the hashtag #JUHSDProud to follow us on Instagram. Email: communication@jeffersonunion.net Website: www.juhsd.net Location: 123 Edgemont Drive Building A, Daly City Phone: 650-550-7900 .

Friday, Oct 16 2026

Superintendent Community Newsletter - October 9, 2026

Superintendent's Message October 9, 2026 Dear JUHSD Community, Planning for the Future: Financial Aid & Community Resource Fair College financial aid applications for the 2027–28 academic year are now open! I encourage all 12th-grade students and families to apply as soon as possible to maximize financial aid opportunities. Grants and scholarships can help make college, vocational school, and career training more affordable. Students should complete the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (CADAA), depending on their eligibility. Many scholarships also require a financial aid application, so it's worth applying even if you think you may not qualify. California's financial aid priority deadline is March 2, 2027. Learn more at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa You're Invited: College, Career, & Community Resource Fair Join us for an opportunity to explore options after high school and connect with valuable community resources! 🗓 Thursday, October 15, 2026 🕔 5:00–7:00 p.m. 📍 Serramonte Mall Meet representatives from California community colleges, CSU and UC campuses, private universities, trade schools, apprenticeship programs, local government agencies, and community organizations offering resources and support for students and families. Whether you're planning for college, exploring career pathways, or looking for community services, this fair is a great opportunity to ask questions and discover what's possible. We look forward to supporting our students and families as they plan for a successful future. Wishing you a wonderful weekend! With Appreciation, Toni Presta Superintendent Don’t Miss These Upcoming Community Events! JUHSD is proud to be part of the communities we serve! Come say hello and visit the JUHSD table at most of these upcoming community events to learn more about our schools, programs, and opportunities for students and families. 📍 College, Career & Community Resource Fair October 15 | Serramonte Mall 📍 Top of the Hill Daly City October 17 We look forward to connecting with our community, sharing what makes JUHSD special, and helping families learn more about the opportunities available to our students. See flyers below for more information about each event. Link to Parking and Shuttle Info Explore JUHSD Schools! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn more about JUHSD’s high schools! Families are invited to attend the District High School Fair and school-site Open Houses to discover the academic programs, Career Technical Education pathways, athletics, activities, counseling and wellness supports, and unique opportunities available at each of our schools. District High School Fair 📅 October 21 at 6:00 p.m. 123 Edgemont Drive - Daly City Oceana High School 📅 November 4 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 ohs.juhsd.net Terra Nova High School 📅 November 12 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 tnhs.juhsd.net Jefferson High School 📅 November 19 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 jhs.juhsd.net Thornton High School | Remote Independent Study 📅 February 10 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 ths.juhsd.net Come explore our campuses, meet educators, learn about programs and supports, and discover the opportunities available to help every student find their path to success. We look forward to welcoming prospective students and families! Election Day is November 3! Make your voice heard and remember to vote! Want to learn more about Measure M? Visit the Jefferson Union High School District website for informational resources to help you understand the measure. Stay informed and make a plan to participate in this year’s election. A Message from the JUHSD Wellness Department We need your help to keep our district's student support programs running. Our district is participating in the California Youth Behavioral Health Initiative Program (CYBHI), which requires health insurance companies to reimburse schools for the counseling and wellness services students already receive. These are the regular services our school counselors, wellness staff, and school psychologists have always provided on campus to all students. ALL JUHSD families received a consent form to collect health insurance information. You should have received a consent form in your email asking for your health insurance information. If you have not filled it out yet, please do so by October 30th, 2026. We will send the email link again soon. Thank you for helping us protect and maintain vital support services for our students! If you have any questions, please contact Michelle Fortunado-Kewin at mkewin@jeffersonunion.net or 650-550-7944. You may also visit our website: www.juhsd.net/wellness. Avani Receives Youth Volunteer of the Year! Congratulations to Oceana High School student Avani Rajan for receiving the City of Brisbane Youth Volunteer of the Year Award! The award was presented during last Saturday’s Brisbane Day in the Park. We are proud to see our students recognized for their dedication to serving their communities and making a positive difference. Thank you to the City of Brisbane for recognizing the contributions of young people and for helping build a stronger, more connected community! Oceana Food and Nutrition Visits Pie Ranch! On Friday, October 2, Oceana’s Food and Nutrition students spent the day at Pie Ranch learning about sustainable farming and connecting classroom learning to real-world experiences. Students prepared a delicious Mediterranean lunch, baked apple pies, and explored the program garden, identifying herbs, peppers, and beans. A wonderful day of hands-on learning, fresh food, and discovering where our food comes from! 🍎🌿 OHS Culinary Arts - From Farm to Table at Pie Ranch! On Thursday, October 8, Oceana High School Culinary Arts students kicked off the first of six internship experiences at Pie Ranch! Students got hands-on experience creating a delicious farm-to-table meal using fresh ingredients from the ranch. This exciting opportunity connects classroom learning with real-world culinary skills while helping students explore sustainable food systems and career pathways in the culinary arts. Future RAMS, we loved welcoming you to Westmoor! On October 5, Westmoor High School hosted its Open House for future RAMS, and it was a huge success! Thank you to everyone who joined us to learn more about the school, meet the community, and explore all that Westmoor has to offer. Missed the Open House? There’s still time to learn more! Join us at the JUHSD High School Fair on October 21 at 6 p.m. at the District Office to explore our schools and discover the opportunities available to your student. We look forward to seeing you there! Terra Nova Asian Club and Latinos Unidos On October 6, Asian Club and Latinos Unidos came together for a joint lunchtime potluck celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15–October 15) and Filipino American History Month (October 1–31). With the two heritage celebrations overlapping, students from both clubs brought dishes that reflected their cultures and shared them with one another—turning lunch into an opportunity to eat, learn, connect, and celebrate together. This collab between Asian Club (Advised by Ms. Marlene Gutierrez) and Latinos Unidos (advised by Mr. Juanmanuel Venegas, Mr. Eric Cabrera, and Mr. Jorge Vilchez) created a celebration that highlighted the cultural richness and diversity of the Terra Nova community. More than just a potluck, the gathering was a chance for students to share a piece of their heritage, discover something new, and build connections across cultures. TN Digital Journalism Visits SF State Terra Nova High School Digital Journalism students visited San Francisco State University’s Journalism Department to learn more about the program and explore future opportunities in the field. Experiences like these connect classroom learning to college and career pathways, opening doors to a world of possibilities in journalism and media. Student Programs, Events, and Contest Pasifika Mental Health Conference October 16, 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The Pasifika Mental Health Conference strengthens mental health and well-being across Pasifika communities. Learn more. Registration for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is now open! Since 2016, over 50,000 middle and high schoolers across the United States have created apps representing their passions, values, and service to our community. Entries due October 26 at 9am. Environmental Youth Leadership Summit (Students, Grades 6–12) New! Saturday, November 14, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Register by October 30 This summit is organized by students for students across San Mateo County, to help young people take action toward a sustainable future. Students will work together, solve problems and meet peers who share their interests. Breakfast, lunch, and transportation are provided. Learn more. Respect! 24/7 PSA Competition (6-12 Grade Students) New! Due November 1, 2026 The Respect! 24/7 PSA Competition invites students in grades 6-12 to use their creativity and voices to help build safer, more inclusive, and respectful school communities. Learn more. Second Annual Student Art Contest: "America 250" (Middle & High School Students) New! Submissions due Friday, November 6, at 5:00 p.m. Assemblymember Diane Papan and Supervisor Lisa Gauthier invite students ages 11–18 to submit original, two-dimensional, non-digital artwork on the theme "America 250: The American Experience reflected in San Mateo County." Students must live in Supervisor Gauthier's district or attend school in East Palo Alto, Menlo Park, North Fair Oaks, or Redwood City. Winners get their art displayed in district and county offices, a private lunch with both officials, and recognition on social media. Learn more. Family Resources What parents should know about teens’ reliance on AI for mental health support Parent Support Groups through the Children's Council Learn More Get Storm Ready (Community Members, Students, and Families) New! Forecasters expect a very strong El Niño this winter, which raises the odds of heavy storms and high-tide flooding in San Mateo County. Take these steps to prepare and keep your household safe, informed, and dry. Learn more. Student Cancer Education, Detection, and Prevention (SCEDAP) Awareness Week (TK-12 Educators, Community Members, Students, and Families) New! October 12-16 Student Cancer Education, Detection, and Prevention (SCEDAP) Awareness Week is a statewide initiative that equips students with the knowledge to make informed health decisions through education on cancer prevention and early detection. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s California Society of Emerging Leaders has created a new standards-aligned curriculum that includes classroom presentations, interactive activities, and school-wide engagement opportunities that can be adapted to fit a school's schedule and students' needs. Learn more and access the curriculum. Sign up for implementation support. Start the Conversation: What Parents Should Know About Teen Dating Violence October 14, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Empower your teen to have healthy relationships! Learn common myths about teen dating violence, the cycle of abuse, and how to talk with your teen about relationships. Learn more. 2026 Commuter Survey (TK-12 Educators, Community Members, Students aged 18+, and Families) New! Complete by October 31 Commute.org is conducting the 2026 Commuter Survey, which will help us better understand how people who live or work in San Mateo County commute, including travel patterns, transportation choices, and what could make commuting easier. The survey is open to adults age 18 or older who are currently employes or attending college and takes approximately 5-8 minutes to complete. Responses are anonymous and confidential. Participants can enter an optional drawing for one of ten $100 e-gift cards. Access a marketing toolkit. Access the survey (opens October 1). Daly City /Colma Chamber of Commerce Events Calendar Housing Support HIP Housing offers a range of housing services including rental housing, supportive housing for low-income parents and former foster youth, home sharing, and senior programs. Learn more. Food Resources The County of San Mateo provides resources for families facing food insecurity. Learn more. Know Your Rights Support Services - Learn More Center for Immigration Legal & Support - Learn More Accessing Oral Health Care Public Health Resources Learn more. San Mateo County Health Vaccine Guidance: (English | Spanish). San Mateo County Health Information: SMC Mobile Clinic Schedule Health Coverage Enrollment Assistance for Low- to Mid-income Residents or San Mateo Medical Center Patients (in English and Spanish) Understanding the California School Dashboard: What parents need to know | EdSource Youth Unlimited (K-12 Students) SamTrans provides free bus travel for eligible students. Learn more. Instagram Scan the QR code or @juhsd1 and use the hashtag #JUHSDProud to follow us on Instagram. Email: communication@jeffersonunion.net Website: www.juhsd.net Location: 123 Edgemont Drive Building A, Daly City Phone: 650-550-7900 .

Friday, Oct 09 2026

THS Newsletter 10/9/2026

Thornton High School Newsletter October 9, 2026 Principal's Message Dear Thornton High School Students and Families, We’ve reached the end of our first quarter! This is a great time to recognize the progress students have made, learn from the first quarter, and prepare for a fresh start. There will be no school Monday, October 12th, and our new quarter begins Tuesday, October 13th. As we begin the new quarter, our biggest area of focus continues to be attendance. Simply put, attendance is the number one reason some of our students are falling behind and not earning credits toward graduation. Being at school and arriving on time every day gives students the best opportunity to stay connected, complete their work, and make progress. For students experiencing significant attendance challenges, we will continue meeting with families to understand what is getting in the way and problem-solve together. We need your partnership. Our goal isn’t just better attendance. It’s helping every student make consistent progress toward graduation. Our new cell phone policy is scheduled to begin Tuesday, October 13th. However, if we have not yet received our Yondr pouches, we will continue with our current cell phone policy until the pouches arrive. We will keep students and families informed. This link is attached for additional information. Finally, this is what GRIT by Design is all about. When we create an environment focused on Growth, Relevance, and Innovation, we continuously improve our community so that everyone can Thrive. New quarter. Fresh start. Let’s show our GRIT and make every day count! Dennie Marenco, Ed.D. Principal School News & Updates PSAT/SAT INFORMATION JUHSD is offering the SAT and PSAT this year. PSAT (Date TBD, but will fall between October 1 -30) Cost $18 - district will cover the cost! SAT School Day (Date TBD, but will fall between October 1 -30) Cost $60 - students will pay on their own Interested? Complete THS SAT & PSAT Interest Form 2026-27 Community Events PASEO ARTISTICO - 10/10 From DJ Quest out of Horizons SF: The DJ Project will be part of the festival event Paseo Artistico this Saturday, 10/10, 11am-6pm at 24th and Harrison in San Francisco. DJ Quest is working with an almost all-girl cohort with their first dj performance ever. Enjoy other veteran DJs and other performances! DJ Quest scheduled to do a scratch set at 2:15pm. SKYLINE CASH FOR COLLEGE - 10/13 Attend Cash for College Workshop on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Skyline College in Building 2, Level 1 – Assessment Center. Students can register here. This workshop is an opportunity for students to receive assistance with completing their financial aid applications and learn more about available scholarship opportunities. We would greatly appreciate your help in sharing this information with your students, staff, and faculty so we can reach as many students as possible. We also encourage students to apply for scholarships, especially the SMCCCD Scholarship, for students planning to attend one of our three colleges. The application deadline is Friday, February 19, 2027. COLLEGE, CAREER & COMMUNITY RESOURCE FAIR - 10/15 Thornton students who volunteer at CCC can earn Community Service Hours toward Elective Credit! CCC Permission Form - THS CCC Volunteer Form DALY CITY'S TOP OF THE HILL FESTIVAL - 10/17 Sign up to volunteer and collect hours toward elective credit! Multiple shifts Top of the Hill Volunteer Sign-Up Form Community Resources NAMI SAN MATEO COUNTY'S UPLIFT TEEN GROUP The Uplift Teen Group is an interactive 6-week support group is designed to help youth (ages 11-18) learn coping skills and improve their overall wellbeing. Each session is one hour long, featuring peer discussions and interactive activities to practice techniques that help change negative thoughts to positive ones. Please fill out the interest form below so we can be in touch about next steps. If you have any questions, please reach out to our Youth Outreach Associate, Yvette Morales, at ymorales@namisanmateo.org Uplift Teen Group Interest Form SamTrans is working hard to ensure that you have all the information you need for your child to enjoy a safe and sustainable commute to and from school. In partnernship with the San Mateo County of Education, they've produced a new SamTrans Safety Video. HIP HOUSING enables people with special needs, either from income or circumstance, to live independent, self-sufficient lives in decent, safe, low-cost homes. Core Service Agencies Daly City Partnership is a Core Service Agency that serves Broadmoor, Colma and Daly City residents. For their list of programs, see https://www.dcpartnership.org/programs/. Call to schedule an appointment at (650) 991-8007. Pacifica Resource Center (PRC) is a Core Service Agency that serves Pacifica residents. For their list of programs, see https://www.pacresourcecenter.org/services. Call to schedule an appointment at (650) 738-7470. Support student & parent-owned businesses Thanks to our Community Partners! Thornton High School (650) 550-7840 https://ths.juhsd.net/

Friday, Oct 09 2026

Superintendent Community Newsletter - October 2, 2026

Superintendent's Message October 2, 2026 Dear JUHSD Community, Celebrating Filipino American History Month October is Filipino American History Month, a time to celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Filipino Americans and to recognize the many ways Filipino Americans have shaped our communities, our country, and our schools. As a school district serving a diverse community, Jefferson Union High School District is proud to honor the Filipino American students, families, educators, staff, and community members who are an important part of JUHSD. Their stories, traditions, accomplishments, and experiences enrich our schools and strengthen the connections that bring our community together. Filipino American History Month also provides an opportunity for our students to learn about the history and experiences of Filipino Americans, including the generations who have contributed to California’s agricultural, labor, military, educational, healthcare, and civic communities. I encourage our school communities to use this month as an opportunity to learn, celebrate, and share the stories and contributions of Filipino Americans. By recognizing the histories and cultures represented in our schools, we create greater understanding, connection, and belonging for all. Happy Filipino American History Month! With Appreciation, Toni Presta Superintendent Don’t Miss These Upcoming Community Events! JUHSD is proud to be part of the communities we serve! Come say hello and visit the JUHSD table at most of these upcoming community events to learn more about our schools, programs, and opportunities for students and families. 📍 Brisbane Day in the Park and Derby October 3 📍 College, Career & Community Resource Fair October 15 | Serramonte Mall 📍 Top of the Hill Daly City October 17 We look forward to connecting with our community, sharing what makes JUHSD special, and helping families learn more about the opportunities available to our students. See flyers below for more information about each event. Link to Parking and Shuttle Info Explore JUHSD Schools! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn more about JUHSD’s high schools! Families are invited to attend the District High School Fair and school-site Open Houses to discover the academic programs, Career Technical Education pathways, athletics, activities, counseling and wellness supports, and unique opportunities available at each of our schools. District High School Fair 📅 October 21 at 6:00 p.m. 123 Edgemont Drive - Daly City School Site Open Houses Westmoor High School 📅 October 5 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 whs.juhsd.net Oceana High School 📅 November 4 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 ohs.juhsd.net Terra Nova High School 📅 November 12 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 tnhs.juhsd.net Jefferson High School 📅 November 19 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 jhs.juhsd.net Thornton High School | Remote Independent Study 📅 February 10 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 ths.juhsd.net Come explore our campuses, meet educators, learn about programs and supports, and discover the opportunities available to help every student find their path to success. We look forward to welcoming prospective students and families! October at JUHSD: A Month of Recognition, Awareness & Appreciation Jefferson Union High School District honors and acknowledges the many important observances recognized throughout the month of October. These occasions provide opportunities to celebrate our communities, recognize important contributions, raise awareness, and strengthen our commitment to belonging and inclusion. 🌎 Hispanic/Latine Heritage Month — September 15–October 15 Celebrating the rich histories, cultures, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latine communities and recognizing the many ways they have enriched our schools, communities, and nation. 🧡 Filipino American History Month Celebrating the rich history, culture, and contributions of Filipino Americans. 🏳️‍🌈 LGBTQ+ History Month Recognizing the history, achievements, and contributions of LGBTQ+ communities. 💙 Bullying Prevention Month Promoting kindness, respect, empathy, and safe and supportive schools for every student. 📚 National Dyslexia Awareness Month Raising awareness and understanding of dyslexia and celebrating the strengths and diverse ways students learn. 🎀 Breast Cancer Awareness Month Raising awareness about breast cancer, honoring those affected, and supporting education and early detection. 🍎 World Teachers' Day — October 5 Celebrating educators and recognizing the important role teachers play in inspiring, supporting, and empowering students. 🌿 Indigenous Peoples' Day — October 12 Recognizing and honoring the histories, cultures, contributions, and resilience of Indigenous peoples. At JUHSD, we believe learning is fundamentally social. Throughout October and every month, we celebrate the people, cultures, experiences, and educators who help make our schools stronger and more connected. 💙 A Message from the JUHSD Wellness Department We are excited to share that our school is participating in California’s Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI). This state program allows our school to get reimbursed by insurance companies for counseling and wellness services we already provide on campus by our school psychologists, school counselors, and wellness counselors. By recovering these costs, we can keep these vital services running and expand our support for ALL students. What this means for your family: 100% Free: All services remain completely free to you. No co-pays, deductibles, or surprise bills. No Impact on Personal Care: This will not limit or change your family's ability to see your own private doctors or therapists outside of school. Guaranteed Coverage: By state law, insurance companies must reimburse the school for these services. Insurance information is Confidential: It will only be used to receive reimbursement for services provided. Whether or not you provide your insurance information, your student will continue to receive the services they need. A consent form was sent to parents/guardians via email on Tuesday to collect your health insurance information. If you have not completed the form, please do so by October 30th, 2026. We will resend the consent form again. For more information, please visit: www.juhsd.net/wellness or contact Michelle Fortunado-Kewin at mkewin@jeffersonunion.net, 650-550-7944. JUHSD at Fogfest! JUHSD was proud to be part of Pacifica Fogfest this past weekend! Our team connected with community members at our booth, sharing information about our schools, programs, and opportunities for students and families. We were also excited to have Oceana High School Cheer, Jefferson High School Band, and Terra Nova High School Cheer participate in the Fogfest Parade on Saturday! We love getting out into the community and connecting with our families and neighbors. Come see us next! 📍 Brisbane Day in the Park & Derby — This Saturday 🏫 JUHSD High School Fair — October 21 We look forward to seeing you there! 💙 Learning Beyond the Classroom! - WHS & JHS Dance Westmoor and Jefferson High School Dance students visited American Conservatory Theater (A.C.T.) for a special opportunity to experience a live performance and participate in a behind-the-scenes workshop with the actors. Students gained firsthand insight into the performing arts while connecting classroom learning to the professional theater world. A great day of inspiration, creativity, and learning! Jefferson HS Mission Fusion! This past weekend, Jefferson High School’s Mission Fusion took the stage at the San Mateo Arts Festival! Our talented students shared their creativity and passion for the arts with the community through an exciting performance. We’re proud to see our students representing JHS and JUHSD on the community stage! Behind the Scenes at the Terra Nova Times! Take a look behind the scenes at the Terra Nova Times and see our student journalists in action as they research, write, edit, and bring stories to the Terra Nova community. We’re proud to showcase the creativity, collaboration, and journalism skills of our students! Be sure to follow the Terra Nova Times on Instagram and Facebook to keep up with their latest stories and school news! Instagram at terranovatimes Facebook at Terra Nova Times From Salmon to Scat: Fat Bear Week Meets the Nitrogen Cycle Who says science can't be fun, furry, and a little bit chunky? This fall, AP Environmental Science (APES) students used Fat Bear Week as a real-world phenomenon while learning the nitrogen cycle. Students explored how salmon bring nutrients from the ocean into freshwater and forest ecosystems, while tracking the Fat Bear Week competition with their own bear brackets. To wrap up the lesson, teams took on the “Chonky Poster Sprint: Salmon, Scat, and Super-Sized Bears!” With just 15 minutes, students raced to create posters tracing how nitrogen travels from the ocean, through salmon and brown bears, and into the forests of Katmai National Park. Students in Ms. Daria’s and Ms. Cayabyab’s Life Skills classes also joined the fun by reading about bears, watching videos, and voting for their favorites. And the bear predictions were on point: several APES and Life Skills students—and Ms. Daria—picked Backpack as their champion, who ultimately won! A fun way to discover that ecosystems are connected—and sometimes a very hungry bear can make the lesson unforgettable! TNHS Students Join Youth Climate Ambassadors Retreat On Saturday, September 26, 11th graders Jolee Betts, Joshua Reeder, and Gavin Beck joined high school students from across San Mateo County for the opening retreat of the San Mateo County Youth Climate Ambassadors (YCA) Leadership Program. The retreat kicked off an eight-month journey focused on connecting young people who care about their communities and want to make a difference. Students explored climate and sustainability issues, built leadership skills, connected with fellow youth climate leaders, and began thinking about solutions they can bring back to their own schools and communities. We are excited to see what Jolee, Joshua, and Gavin will bring back to Terra Nova as they take on their roles as our newest youth climate leaders! LaRussell’s Backyard Concert Comes to Daly City! Hip-hop artist LaRussell, known for his “I’m From The Bay” music and the incredible video filmed on the Jefferson campus, brought his Backyard Concert Series to Daly City on Sunday, September 27. The Jefferson Adult Education basketball court became a lively community gathering place as LaRussell performed and connected with local families. The afternoon featured music, food, and plenty of fun for kids, including bouncy houses. It was a wonderful, family-friendly celebration that brought music and community together right here in Daly City! YouthPoint Health Advisory Board Meeting A look at our recent YPH Advisory Board meeting! We appreciate the staff and community members who come together to share ideas, build connections, and help shape opportunities for youth health in our community. 📅 Our next meeting is October 5! Interested in joining the Advisory Board? We welcome new members! Contact one of the following team members to learn more about getting involved: Shane Beltran, Operations Coordinator: shane.beltran@jeffersonunion.net Juleen Mallari, YAG Leader: juleen.grace08@gmail.com We hope to see you at an upcoming meeting! Student Programs, Events, and Contest United States Senate Youth Program - Transforming Schools: Superintendent’s Initiatives (CA Dept of Education) Deadline 10/7 Learn More Joy is a Risk Worth Taking October 7, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. As Stanford psychologist Kelly McGonigal, PhD, reveals in her new book, Joy Is a Risk Worth Taking, joy gives life meaning, sustains hope, and helps us feel close to others. Learn more. Pasifika Mental Health Conference October 16, 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The Pasifika Mental Health Conference strengthens mental health and well-being across Pasifika communities. Learn more. Registration for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is now open! Since 2016, over 50,000 middle and high schoolers across the United States have created apps representing their passions, values, and service to our community. Entries due October 26 at 9am. Respect! 24/7 PSA Competition (6-12 Grade Students) New! Due November 1, 2026 The Respect! 24/7 PSA Competition invites students in grades 6-12 to use their creativity and voices to help build safer, more inclusive, and respectful school communities. Learn more. Family Resources What parents should know about teens’ reliance on AI for mental health support Parent Support Groups through the Children's Council Learn More Get Storm Ready (Community Members, Students, and Families) New! Forecasters expect a very strong El Niño this winter, which raises the odds of heavy storms and high-tide flooding in San Mateo County. Take these steps to prepare and keep your household safe, informed, and dry. Learn more. Virtual Event: Joy is a Risk Worth Taking (Parents, Educators, Community Members) New October 7, 5:30-6:30pm As Stanford psychologist and educator Kelly McGonigal, PhD, reveals in her new book, Joy Is a Risk Worth Taking, joy gives life meaning, sustains hope, and helps us feel close to others. Join this free virtual event. Simultaneous Spanish interpretation will be available. Register. Student Cancer Education, Detection, and Prevention (SCEDAP) Awareness Week (TK-12 Educators, Community Members, Students, and Families) New! October 12-16 Student Cancer Education, Detection, and Prevention (SCEDAP) Awareness Week is a statewide initiative that equips students with the knowledge to make informed health decisions through education on cancer prevention and early detection. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s California Society of Emerging Leaders has created a new standards-aligned curriculum that includes classroom presentations, interactive activities, and school-wide engagement opportunities that can be adapted to fit a school's schedule and students' needs. Learn more and access the curriculum. Sign up for implementation support. Start the Conversation: What Parents Should Know About Teen Dating Violence October 14, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Empower your teen to have healthy relationships! Learn common myths about teen dating violence, the cycle of abuse, and how to talk with your teen about relationships. Learn more. 2026 Commuter Survey (TK-12 Educators, Community Members, Students aged 18+, and Families) New! Complete by October 31 Commute.org is conducting the 2026 Commuter Survey, which will help us better understand how people who live or work in San Mateo County commute, including travel patterns, transportation choices, and what could make commuting easier. The survey is open to adults age 18 or older who are currently employes or attending college and takes approximately 5-8 minutes to complete. Responses are anonymous and confidential. Participants can enter an optional drawing for one of ten $100 e-gift cards. Access a marketing toolkit. Access the survey (opens October 1). Daly City /Colma Chamber of Commerce Events Calendar Housing Support HIP Housing offers a range of housing services including rental housing, supportive housing for low-income parents and former foster youth, home sharing, and senior programs. Learn more. Food Resources The County of San Mateo provides resources for families facing food insecurity. Learn more. Know Your Rights Support Services - Learn More Center for Immigration Legal & Support - Learn More Accessing Oral Health Care Public Health Resources Learn more. San Mateo County Health Vaccine Guidance: (English | Spanish). San Mateo County Health Information: SMC Mobile Clinic Schedule Health Coverage Enrollment Assistance for Low- to Mid-income Residents or San Mateo Medical Center Patients (in English and Spanish) Understanding the California School Dashboard: What parents need to know | EdSource Youth Unlimited (K-12 Students) SamTrans provides free bus travel for eligible students. Learn more. Instagram Scan the QR code or @juhsd1 and use the hashtag #JUHSDProud to follow us on Instagram. Email: communication@jeffersonunion.net Website: www.juhsd.net Location: 123 Edgemont Drive Building A, Daly City Phone: 650-550-7900 .

Friday, Oct 02 2026

Superintendent Community Newsletter - September 25, ...

Superintendent's Message September 25, 2026 Dear JUHSD Community, One of the things that makes Jefferson Union High School District special is the strong connection we share with the communities we serve. Throughout the year, our staff and schools have opportunities to connect with students, families, and community members beyond our campuses. I invite you to stop by the JUHSD table at many of the upcoming community events listed below. Come say hello, meet our team, and learn more about our schools, programs, and the opportunities available to our students and families. Upcoming Community Events 📍 Pacifica Fogfest September 26 & 27 | Palmetto, Pacifica 📍 Bayshore Block Party September 26 | Bayshore School 📍 Daly City Community Candidate Forum September 26 | TRP Middle School 📍 Ram Invitational Saturday, September 26 | Westmoor High School Cross Country Meet 📍 Brisbane / Derby Day in the Park October 3 | Brisbane Park 📍 College, Career & Community Resource Fair October 15 | Serramonte Mall 📍 Top of the Hill Daly City October 17 | Mission St. Daly City These are just a few of the many events happening throughout our local communities this Fall. There are additional community events that are not included on this list, so we encourage families to check the Pacifica Community Calendar and Daly City Community Calendar for more opportunities to get involved and stay connected. I look forward to seeing you in the community! Thank you for continuing to partner with us and for helping make our schools an important part of the communities we serve. With Appreciation, Toni Presta Superintendent Link to Parking and Shuttle Info Explore JUHSD Schools! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn more about JUHSD’s high schools! Families are invited to attend the District High School Fair and school-site Open Houses to discover the academic programs, Career Technical Education pathways, athletics, activities, counseling and wellness supports, and unique opportunities available at each of our schools. District High School Fair 📅 October 21 at 6:00 p.m. 123 Edgemont Drive - Daly City School Site Open Houses Westmoor High School 📅 October 5 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 whs.juhsd.net Oceana High School 📅 November 4 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 ohs.juhsd.net Terra Nova High School 📅 November 12 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 tnhs.juhsd.net Jefferson High School 📅 November 19 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 jhs.juhsd.net Thornton High School | Remote Independent Study 📅 February 10 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 ths.juhsd.net Come explore our campuses, meet educators, learn about programs and supports, and discover the opportunities available to help every student find their path to success. We look forward to welcoming prospective students and families! Westmoor - Celebrating Academic Achievement! Congratulations to Westmoor High School seniors Ryan Chou and Shu Ming Teon, who have been named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists for the Class of 2027! These students are among more than 16,000 semifinalists nationwide recognized through the National Merit Scholarship Program. The honor recognizes high-achieving students who now have the opportunity to continue in the competition for National Merit Scholarships. We are proud to celebrate RC and ST and their outstanding academic accomplishments! Read more: The Mercury News: National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists from the Bay Area, Class of 2027 Spreading Kindness at Oceana High School As part of Suicide Awareness Week, Oceana High School students participated in a Chalk Wall of Kindness, filling the space with messages of encouragement, hope, and support for one another. A beautiful reminder that small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference and that we all have a role in creating a caring and supportive school community. Jefferson CTE Culinary Pathway Jefferson High School Culinary students visited the City College of San Francisco Culinary & Hospitality program for an exciting hands-on field trip! Students learned more about the front and back of the restaurant, gaining insight into the many career opportunities within the culinary and hospitality industry. A great opportunity for students to connect their classroom learning with real-world experiences and explore their future career pathways! Terra Nova Participates in CA Coastal Clean Up Day Terra Nova students took their learning outdoors—and into action—during California Coastal Cleanup Day last Saturday! In collaboration with the Pacific Beach Coalition, about 20 TN students and science teacher Ms. Gutierrez joined community volunteers at San Pedro Creek, helping remove litter from an important local watershed. The creek is especially significant because it provides habitat for Pacifica’s steelhead trout: young steelhead spend their early lives in the creek before migrating downstream to the Pacific Ocean, and adults later return to their home stream to spawn. Leading the TN effort at San Pedro Creek was TN junior Giana Smith, a Pacific Beach Coalition teen site captain. TN students were also part of the cleanup at Esplanade Beach, where TN seniors Alex Martinez and Kalina Ricketts serve as teen site captains. Through this partnership, our students are demonstrating that environmental stewardship goes beyond learning about our local ecosystems—it means showing up and taking care of them. Terra Nova Youth Climate Ambassadors Terra Nova students are putting climate leadership into action! Three TN 11th graders—Jolee Betts, Joshua Reeder, and Gavin Beck—have been accepted into the San Mateo County Youth Climate Ambassadors Program, joining students from across the county in learning about climate and environmental issues, developing leadership skills, and creating projects that educate and engage their school communities. At the district level, TN students are also making their voices heard through the JUHSD District Sustainability Committee, where Sebastian Manalac, Kevin Lee, Jolee Betts, Jocelyn Lam, Veronica Oo, Bianca Salazar, Adelaide Twomey, and Geneva Chan represent Terra Nova and contribute student perspectives to district sustainability efforts. From district-wide sustainability planning to county-wide climate leadership, these students are showing that student voice matters and that our young people are ready to be part of the solution. Student Programs, Events, and Contest California State Board of Education is currently accepting applications for the 2027–28 Student Board Member position. Students who qualify for the Student Board Member position and wish to apply can access the application via the State Board of Education Student Board Member Recruitment web page at https://www.cde.ca.gov/be/ms/mm/sbestudentmember.asp, which also has more details on how to apply. Complete application packages must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026. Please submit your application at sbe@sbe.ca.gov or at https://www.cde.ca.gov/be/ms/mm/SBEStudentMemberApplications.asp. Suicide Prevention: What to Notice, What to Say, How to Help September 30, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. In recognition of Suicide Prevention Month, join Taylor Coutts, ASW, of Felton Institute’s Peninsula Suicide Prevention for an important conversation about suicide prevention, awareness, and crisis support. Learn more. California Student Mock Election - Young people have the potential to be a powerful force in elections, but only if they get involved and make voting a habit. The 2026 California Student Mock Election will take place on October 6, for the General Election. Sign up by September 30 to participate. Learn more and register. United States Senate Youth Program - Transforming Schools: Superintendent’s Initiatives (CA Dept of Education) Deadline 10/7 Learn More Joy is a Risk Worth Taking October 7, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. As Stanford psychologist Kelly McGonigal, PhD, reveals in her new book, Joy Is a Risk Worth Taking, joy gives life meaning, sustains hope, and helps us feel close to others. Learn more. Pasifika Mental Health Conference October 16, 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The Pasifika Mental Health Conference strengthens mental health and well-being across Pasifika communities. Learn more. Registration for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is now open! Since 2016, over 50,000 middle and high schoolers across the United States have created apps representing their passions, values, and service to our community. Entries due October 26 at 9am. Respect! 24/7 PSA Competition (6-12 Grade Students) New! Due November 1, 2026 The Respect! 24/7 PSA Competition invites students in grades 6-12 to use their creativity and voices to help build safer, more inclusive, and respectful school communities. Learn more. San Mateo County Human Service Agency's Community Report The Human Services Agency’s eight branches work together to serve San Mateo County residents with coordinated, people-centered support. By collaborating across programs, they help connect individuals and families to food, housing, child welfare, employment, technology, financial assistance, and other essential services, creating a stronger, more responsive safety net for the community. In the pages that follow, we highlight the work of these branches and share stories that refect their collective impact. Each branch plays a distinct role, and together they help meet the diverse needs of the community. HSA Community Report Family Resources Suicide Prevention: What to Notice, What to Say, How to Help September 30, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. In recognition of Suicide Prevention Month, join Taylor Coutts, ASW, of Felton Institute’s Peninsula Suicide Prevention for an important conversation about suicide prevention, awareness, and crisis support. Learn more. Virtual Event: Joy is a Risk Worth Taking (Parents, Educators, Community Members) New October 7, 5:30-6:30pm As Stanford psychologist and educator Kelly McGonigal, PhD, reveals in her new book, Joy Is a Risk Worth Taking, joy gives life meaning, sustains hope, and helps us feel close to others. Join this free virtual event. Simultaneous Spanish interpretation will be available. Register. Start the Conversation: What Parents Should Know About Teen Dating Violence October 14, 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Empower your teen to have healthy relationships! Learn common myths about teen dating violence, the cycle of abuse, and how to talk with your teen about relationships. Learn more. Daly City /Colma Chamber of Commerce Events Calendar Housing Support HIP Housing offers a range of housing services including rental housing, supportive housing for low-income parents and former foster youth, home sharing, and senior programs. Learn more. Food Resources The County of San Mateo provides resources for families facing food insecurity. Learn more. Know Your Rights Support Services - Learn More Center for Immigration Legal & Support - Learn More Accessing Oral Health Care Public Health Resources Learn more. San Mateo County Health Vaccine Guidance: (English | Spanish). San Mateo County Health Information: SMC Mobile Clinic Schedule Health Coverage Enrollment Assistance for Low- to Mid-income Residents or San Mateo Medical Center Patients (in English and Spanish) Understanding the California School Dashboard: What parents need to know | EdSource Youth Unlimited (K-12 Students) SamTrans provides free bus travel for eligible students. Learn more. Instagram Scan the QR code or @juhsd1 and use the hashtag #JUHSDProud to follow us on Instagram. Email: communication@jeffersonunion.net Website: www.juhsd.net Location: 123 Edgemont Drive Building A, Daly City Phone: 650-550-7900 .

Friday, Sep 25 2026

THS Newsletter 09/25/26

Thornton High School Newsletter September 25, 2026 Principal's Message Dear Thornton High School Students and Families, We are approaching the end of the first quarter on October 9th, and now is the time to finish strong! Students, please check your progress, get caught up on missing work, and talk with your teachers about where you need support. There is still time to make progress and earn credits, but every school day matters. Families, we especially need your partnership around attendance. Attendance continues to be the number one reason some of our students are falling behind and not earning the credits they need toward graduation. If you are receiving attendance letters from Thornton, please make sure we are talking. These letters are not simply notices. It is a chance for us to work together. We will also follow-up with phone calls to reach out further to support conversations on the support needed to address repeated absences. For students with significant attendance challenges, we will be meeting with families to better understand what is getting in the way and to develop a plan for improvement. Our goal is to problem-solve together and help students get back on track where needed. Being at school and being on time every day makes a difference. When students miss school, catching up becomes harder, and missed work can quickly add up. This is GRIT by Design in action. By creating an environment focused on Growth, Relevance, and Innovation, we continuously strengthen our community so that everyone can Thrive. Let’s show our GRIT, make every day count, and finish the quarter strong! Dennie Marenco, Ed.D. Principal School News & Updates Student Equity Team (SET) Convening As a new team at Thornton this year, we learned about what the Student Equity Team is and talked about our goals as a district to address racism on our campuses. Students and staff broke out into separate affinity groups to discuss campus culture, experiences, and what inequality might look like at different schools. It was meaningful to have time together as a school site but also collaborate with others from different schools to listen and learn about their perspectives and how we can come together to make positive changes in our communities. PSAT/SAT INFORMATION JUHSD is offering the SAT and PSAT this year. PSAT (Date TBD, but will fall between October 1 -30) Cost $18 - district will cover the cost! SAT School Day (Date TBD, but will fall between October 1 -30) Cost $60 - students will pay on their own Interested? Complete THS SAT & PSAT Interest Form 2026-27 Community Events PACIFICA'S FOGFEST IS THIS WEEKEND - 9/26 & 9/27 Come visit the JUHSD table. If volunteering, submit hours on the Yellow Sheet toward elective credit! COLLEGE, CAREER & COMMUNITY RESOURCE FAIR - 10/15 Thornton students who volunteer at CCC can earn Community Service Hours toward Elective Credit! CCC Permission Form - THS CCC Volunteer Form DALY CITY'S TOP OF THE HILL FESTIVAL - 10/17 Sign up to volunteer and collect hours toward elective credit! Multiple shifts Top of the Hill Volunteer Sign-Up Form Community Resources NAMI SAN MATEO COUNTY'S UPLIFT TEEN GROUP - 9/26 The Uplift Teen Group is an interactive 6-week support group is designed to help youth (ages 11-18) learn coping skills and improve their overall wellbeing. Each session is one hour long, featuring peer discussions and interactive activities to practice techniques that help change negative thoughts to positive ones. Please fill out the interest form below so we can be in touch about next steps. If you have any questions, please reach out to our Youth Outreach Associate, Yvette Morales, at ymorales@namisanmateo.org Uplift Teen Group Interest Form SamTrans is working hard to ensure that you have all the information you need for your child to enjoy a safe and sustainable commute to and from school. In partnernship with the San Mateo County of Education, they've produced a new SamTrans Safety Video. HIP HOUSING enables people with special needs, either from income or circumstance, to live independent, self-sufficient lives in decent, safe, low-cost homes. Core Service Agencies Daly City Partnership is a Core Service Agency that serves Broadmoor, Colma and Daly City residents. For their list of programs, see https://www.dcpartnership.org/programs/. Call to schedule an appointment at (650) 991-8007. Pacifica Resource Center (PRC) is a Core Service Agency that serves Pacifica residents. For their list of programs, see https://www.pacresourcecenter.org/services. Call to schedule an appointment at (650) 738-7470. Support student & parent-owned businesses Thanks to our Community Partners! Thornton High School (650) 550-7840 https://ths.juhsd.net/

Friday, Sep 25 2026

Superintendent Community Newsletter - September 18, ...

Superintendent's Message September 18, 2026 Dear JUHSD Community, ¡Celebremos el Mes de la Herencia Hispana! Each year from September 15 through October 15, we celebrate Hispanic/Latine Heritage Month, a time to recognize and honor the rich histories, cultures, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latine communities. At Jefferson Union High School District, this celebration is especially meaningful because our schools are enriched by the many cultures, experiences, languages, and traditions represented within our student and family community. Hispanic/Latine Heritage Month gives us an opportunity to learn from one another, celebrate the stories that have shaped our communities, and recognize the many contributions of Hispanic and Latine Americans whose families have roots in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Our theme this year, “Learning is fundamentally social,” reminds us that learning happens through connection. When students have opportunities to see their cultures and histories reflected, share their experiences, and learn about the experiences of others, we strengthen our sense of belonging and deepen our understanding of one another. I encourage our JUHSD community to celebrate the contributions of the Latine community, explore its diverse histories and cultures, and celebrate our Hispanic and Latine students, families, staff, and community partners. These stories are an important part of our shared history and the vibrant community we are building together. ¡Celebremos juntos! Happy Hispanic/Latine Heritage Month! To learn more about Hispanic/Latine Heritage Month and explore resources, visit HispanicHeritageMonth.gov. With Appreciation, Toni Presta Superintendent Don’t Miss These Upcoming Community Events! JUHSD is proud to be part of the communities we serve! Come say hello and visit the JUHSD table at most of these upcoming community events to learn more about our schools, programs, and opportunities for students and families. 📍 Pacifica Fogfest September 26 & 27 📍 Bayshore Block Party September 26 📍 Daly City Community Candidate Forum September 26 |TRP Middle School 📍 Brisbane in the Park October 3 📍 College, Career & Community Resource Fair October 15 | Serramonte Mall 📍 Top of the Hill Daly City October 17 We look forward to connecting with our community, sharing what makes JUHSD special, and helping families learn more about the opportunities available to our students. See flyers below for more information about each event. Explore JUHSD Schools! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn more about JUHSD’s high schools! Families are invited to attend the District High School Fair and school-site Open Houses to discover the academic programs, Career Technical Education pathways, athletics, activities, counseling and wellness supports, and unique opportunities available at each of our schools. District High School Fair 📅 October 21 at 6:00 p.m. 123 Edgemont Drive - Daly City School Site Open Houses Westmoor High School 📅 October 5 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 whs.juhsd.net Oceana High School 📅 November 4 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 ohs.juhsd.net Terra Nova High School 📅 November 12 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 tnhs.juhsd.net Jefferson High School 📅 November 19 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 jhs.juhsd.net Thornton High School | Remote Independent Study 📅 February 10 at 6:00 p.m. 🌐 ths.juhsd.net Come explore our campuses, meet educators, learn about programs and supports, and discover the opportunities available to help every student find their path to success. We look forward to welcoming prospective students and families! A Message from the IT Department We are writing to inform you of a serious security incident. A student email account has been compromised and is being used to send phishing emails to students regarding a fake job opportunity . We strongly urge you to exercise extreme caution when opening emails, especially those with unexpected attachments or suspicious links. Do not click on links or open attachments in emails that seem suspicious or come from an unfamiliar sender. If you receive an email that appears to be from a known sender but seems unusual or out of character, please verify the sender's identity by contacting them directly through a known phone number or in person. Our IT team is actively working to contain the issue. To help prevent future incidents, we recommend the following: Be vigilant: Always be wary of suspicious emails, even if they appear to be from someone you know. Strong passwords: Use complex passwords for all your accounts and avoid reusing passwords. Report suspicious activity: If you believe you have been a victim of phishing or have encountered any suspicious activity, be sure to get in touch with your principal or the IT department immediately. Thank you for taking the time to look into this matter. A Message from SamTrans As we head into a new school year, SamTrans is here to make getting to and from school easier than ever. Whether you're a student hopping on your first route or a family looking for a reliable, stress-free commute, SamTrans school routes are ready to get you there. And this year is extra special — we're celebrating 50 years of connecting San Mateo County communities, and we'd love for you to be part of it. Start the school year on the right route and learn more at https://www.samtrans.com/schedules. Join the SamTrans 50th Anniversary Community Celebration on September 26, learn more at https://samtrans.com/50 We would like your input, the survey will evaluate familiarity with our various youth serving products and provide opportunities to give feedback on our current youth fares. Youth Fares Survey Last night, Oceana High School welcomed families to Back to School Night! It was a wonderful evening for families to connect with teachers, learn more about their students’ classes and experiences, and strengthen the school-home connections that make our community so special. Thank you to our Oceana staff, students, and families for making it a great night! Oceana's 90's Dance Highlights Oceana High School took it back to the ’90s last Friday with a fun-filled school dance! From the throwback looks to the music and school spirit, students had a great night celebrating together. Terra Nova Student Spotlight Dylan J., a Digital Journalism 2 student at Terra Nova High School and editor of the Terra Nova Times, is featured in the KQED Youth Media Challenge! In the podcast, Dylan explores “The Importance of Media Literacy in the Age of AI” and the critical role media literacy plays in helping us navigate today’s rapidly changing media landscape. Listen to Dylan’s podcast and hear his perspective! And don’t forget to follow the Terra Nova Times on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with the latest student journalism, stories, and school news. Instagram at terranovatimes Facebook at Terra Nova Times Attention all JUHSD Schools! The Westmoor Math Club is sponsoring administrations for the American Math Competition (at both the AMC10 and AMC12) level for students across the district. These are great chances to receive recognition for your mathematical skills, have fun with challenging math problems, and join a community of math enthusiasts across the district! Find the link to register by joining our Google Classroom: avnatnd Career Technical Education Our JUHSD CTE Advisory Board came together on Monday, September 14, to connect, collaborate, and help strengthen career-connected learning opportunities for our students. We’re grateful to our industry, education, and community partners for sharing their expertise and helping us ensure our CTE programs continue to prepare students with the skills, experiences, and connections they need for their futures. Together, we’re building meaningful pathways from classroom learning to college and careers! Pacifica Resource Center Fundraiser JUHSD Board Member Andy Lie and JUHSD staff were proud to join community members at Pacifica Resource Center’s annual fundraiser! Terra Nova cheer performed at the event. It was a wonderful evening celebrating PRC’s ongoing work to support local individuals and families through food assistance, housing support, emergency services, and more. We’re grateful to be part of a community that comes together to support our neighbors. Want to help? Every donation makes a difference! 💜 Donate or learn more at Pacifica Resource Center JUHSD Board Meeting Highlights - September 15, 2026 JUHSD September 15, 2026 Board agenda Watch the recorded meeting through the JUHSD YouTube Channel September 15 Board Meeting Highlights Installation of Student Trustees INSPIRE AOD Prevention Service Program Update Additional Information and Upcoming Board meetings The next regularly scheduled Board Meeting will take place on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. Public open session begins at 7:00 pm (unless otherwise noted) on the JUHSD YouTube channel and in person at the New District Office, 123 Edgemont Drive, Daly City. JUHSD Governance Calendar Board Agendas Online Meet Our Trustees In Memoriam JUHSD has a longstanding tradition of honoring members of our beloved community who have passed. In order to ensure that we are informed, we ask that you follow a new process. If you would like a community member's passing to be acknowledged at a Board meeting, please complete the form and submit it by the Wednesday prior to that Board meeting. JUHSD 2026/27 Student Trustees Superintendent Presta and the JUHSD Board proudly welcome the 2026–27 JUHSD Student Trustees! These outstanding student leaders will represent their peers, share their voices, and help shape the future of our district. We are excited to see the impact they will make this school year! Westmoor High School Ryan Chou, Ethan Tam, Katelyn Tan, Shu Ming Teon, and Francis Martinez Jefferson High School Edward Miles, Juno Monce, Lanulelei Taliva'a, Victoria Joe-Ijioma, and Elmeranda Jennica Para Terra Nova High School Bianca Slater-Santos, Valerie Yen, Kasey Seipel, Taylor Nguyen, and Veronica Oo Oceana High School Avani Rajan, Marina Sergeeva, Elise Griffith, Bryce Thiele, and Chloe Yoberd Middle College Ramona Orlando Student Programs, Events, and Contest 2026 Roots & Wings Youth Symposium | 1990 Institute Due September 19 California State Board of Education is currently accepting applications for the 2027–28 Student Board Member position. Students who qualify for the Student Board Member position and wish to apply can access the application via the State Board of Education Student Board Member Recruitment web page at https://www.cde.ca.gov/be/ms/mm/sbestudentmember.asp, which also has more details on how to apply. Complete application packages must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026. Please submit your application at sbe@sbe.ca.gov or at https://www.cde.ca.gov/be/ms/mm/SBEStudentMemberApplications.asp. California Student Mock Election - Young people have the potential to be a powerful force in elections, but only if they get involved and make voting a habit. The 2026 California Student Mock Election will take place on October 6, for the General Election. Sign up by September 30 to participate. Learn more and register. United States Senate Youth Program - Transforming Schools: Superintendent’s Initiatives (CA Dept of Education) Deadline 10/7 Learn More Registration for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is now open! Since 2016, over 50,000 middle and high schoolers across the United States have created apps representing their passions, values, and service to our community. Entries due October 26 at 9am. Youth Unlimited - SamTrans provides free bus travel for eligible students. See your school cashier. San Mateo County Human Service Agency's Community Report The Human Services Agency’s eight branches work together to serve San Mateo County residents with coordinated, people-centered support. By collaborating across programs, they help connect individuals and families to food, housing, child welfare, employment, technology, financial assistance, and other essential services, creating a stronger, more responsive safety net for the community. In the pages that follow, we highlight the work of these branches and share stories that refect their collective impact. Each branch plays a distinct role, and together they help meet the diverse needs of the community. HSA Community Report Family Resources Your Role in Disrupting Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC) (Educators, Staff, Administrators, Parents/Caregivers, Community Members) New September 17, 5:30-6:30 p.m. In this presentation, Jeremy Latta, MSW, will help parents and educators understand Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC), including warning signs, recruitment tactics, and the prevalence of CSEC in San Mateo County. Register. Virtual Event: Joy is a Risk Worth Taking (Parents, Educators, Community Members) New October 7, 5:30-6:30pm As Stanford psychologist and educator Kelly McGonigal, PhD, reveals in her new book, Joy Is a Risk Worth Taking, joy gives life meaning, sustains hope, and helps us feel close to others. Join this free virtual event. Simultaneous Spanish interpretation will be available. Register. Daly City /Colma Chamber of Commerce Events Calendar Housing Support HIP Housing offers a range of housing services including rental housing, supportive housing for low-income parents and former foster youth, home sharing, and senior programs. Learn more. Food Resources The County of San Mateo provides resources for families facing food insecurity. Learn more. Know Your Rights Support Services - Learn More Center for Immigration Legal & Support - Learn More Accessing Oral Health Care Public Health Resources Learn more. San Mateo County Health Vaccine Guidance: (English | Spanish). San Mateo County Health Information: SMC Mobile Clinic Schedule Health Coverage Enrollment Assistance for Low- to Mid-income Residents or San Mateo Medical Center Patients (in English and Spanish) Understanding the California School Dashboard: What parents need to know | EdSource Youth Unlimited (K-12 Students) SamTrans provides free bus travel for eligible students. Learn more. Instagram Scan the QR code or @juhsd1 and use the hashtag #JUHSDProud to follow us on Instagram. Email: communication@jeffersonunion.net Website: www.juhsd.net Location: 123 Edgemont Drive Building A, Daly City Phone: 650-550-7900 .

Friday, Sep 18 2026

THS Newsletter 09/11/26

Thornton High School Newsletter September 11, 2026 Principal's Message Dear Thornton High School Students and Families, We are already in Week 6 of the first quarter! With the quarter ending on October 9, now is an important time for students to stay focused and finish strong. Parents and guardians, please take time to review your student’s progress report. If you have questions or concerns about grades, credits, or progress toward graduation, please reach out to us. We are here to help. Thank you to all the students and families who joined us for our Family Community Celebration on September 10! We appreciate you spending time with us, connecting with our staff and community, and helping make Thornton a welcoming place for everyone. As we move forward, attendance must be a priority. For some students, missing school or arriving late has become a serious concern. Every missed day means missed learning, missed opportunities to earn credits, and potentially more time needed to reach graduation. We will be reaching out and meeting with families of students experiencing attendance challenges. Our goal is to work together, understand what is getting in the way, and find solutions that help students attend school on time, every day. This connects directly to GRIT by Design. When we focus on an environment of Growth, Relevance, and Innovation, we continuously improve our community so that everyone can Thrive. Let’s make every day count and keep moving toward graduation! Dennie Marenco, Ed.D. Principal School News & Updates WELCOMING OUR WELLNESS INTERN Hi, I'm Ashley! I'm a Wellness Intern at Thornton for the 2026-2027 school year. I'm currently in my second year studying to get my Master's in Social Work at SF State. I have previous experience working with adults in mental health recovery as a Service Coordinator and working with youth at the Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco as a Behavioral Health intern. I look forward to working with the students and staff at Thornton! Fun fact: I like going to art museums and trying new bakeries. SNAPSHOTS OF LAST NIGHT'S FCC PSAT/SAT INFORMATION JUHSD is offering the SAT and PSAT this year. PSAT (Date TBD, but will fall between October 1 -30) Cost $18 - district will cover the cost! SAT School Day (Date TBD, but will fall between October 1 -30) Cost $60 - students will pay on their own Interested? Complete THS SAT & PSAT Interest Form 2026-27 Community Events Community Resources SamTrans is working hard to ensure that you have all the information you need for your child to enjoy a safe and sustainable commute to and from school. In partnernship with the San Mateo County of Education, they've produced a new SamTrans Safety Video. HIP HOUSING enables people with special needs, either from income or circumstance, to live independent, self-sufficient lives in decent, safe, low-cost homes. Core Service Agencies Daly City Partnership is a Core Service Agency that serves Broadmoor, Colma and Daly City residents. For their list of programs, see https://www.dcpartnership.org/programs/. Call to schedule an appointment at (650) 991-8007. Pacifica Resource Center (PRC) is a Core Service Agency that serves Pacifica residents. For their list of programs, see https://www.pacresourcecenter.org/services. Call to schedule an appointment at (650) 738-7470. Support student & parent-owned businesses Thanks to our Community Partners! Thornton High School (650) 550-7840 https://ths.juhsd.net/

Friday, Sep 11 2026

Superintendent Community Newsletter - September 11, ...

Superintendent's Message September 11, 2026 Dear JUHSD Community, Today, we pause to remember September 11, 2001, and the lives forever changed by the events of that day. As we mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11, we remember the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives, the families and loved ones who continue to carry their loss, and the countless first responders, service members, and ordinary people whose courage and compassion shaped the days and years that followed. For many of our students, September 11 is a moment in history they know through stories, photographs, and lessons in the classroom. For those of us who remember that day, the emotions and uncertainty remain vivid. Across generations, the anniversary gives us an opportunity to reflect on what we can learn from our history and how we can care for one another today. This year, our JUHSD theme is “Learning is fundamentally social.” September 11 reminds us of the truth at the heart of that theme: some of our most important learning happens through our relationships with one another. We learn history by listening to those who experienced it. We learn empathy by hearing perspectives different from our own. We learn resilience by witnessing how communities come together in difficult times. And we learn the importance of caring for others by practicing it every day. Our schools are places where we teach more than academic content. We help young people understand their place in a larger community and develop the knowledge, empathy, and courage to contribute to it. Remembering September 11 gives us an opportunity to have meaningful conversations across generations and to help our students understand that history is not simply something we study, it is something that shapes people, communities, and the world we share. As we remember those we lost 25 years ago, let us also reflect on the responsibility we share today: to look after one another, to lead with compassion, to listen and learn from one another, and to build communities where every person feels valued, connected, and safe. We remember. We learn. We connect. With Appreciation, Toni Presta Superintendent District Professional Development Day All Sites will be closed on September 16 for a District professional development day. A Message from the JUHSD Business Department We are looking for teachers, staff, students, parents and guardians in the JUHSD community that are interested in serving on a short term Budget Committee. Purpose - to discuss the status of JUHSD finances and determine recommendations for the Board of Trustees Minimum Commitment - Four meetings via Zoom on Wednesdays, 4:00pm-5:30pm on the following dates: September 23, October 14, November 4, and December 9 Optional Commitment - assist in preparing a report and presenting to the Board of Trustees, tentatively scheduled for the evening of January 12 There is no prior knowledge necessary to participate and all voices are valued. If you would like more information, please contact Tina Van Raaphorst at tvanr@jeffersonunion.net or (650) 550-7954 We hope you will consider participating: JUHSD Budget Committee Interest Form. A Message from the IT Department We are writing to inform you of a serious security incident. A student email account has been compromised and is being used to send phishing emails to students regarding a fake job opportunity . We strongly urge you to exercise extreme caution when opening emails, especially those with unexpected attachments or suspicious links. Do not click on links or open attachments in emails that seem suspicious or come from an unfamiliar sender. If you receive an email that appears to be from a known sender but seems unusual or out of character, please verify the sender's identity by contacting them directly through a known phone number or in person. Our IT team is actively working to contain the issue. To help prevent future incidents, we recommend the following: Be vigilant: Always be wary of suspicious emails, even if they appear to be from someone you know. Strong passwords: Use complex passwords for all your accounts and avoid reusing passwords. Report suspicious activity: If you believe you have been a victim of phishing or have encountered any suspicious activity, be sure to get in touch with your principal or the IT department immediately. Thank you for taking the time to look into this matter. A Message from SamTrans As we head into a new school year, SamTrans is here to make getting to and from school easier than ever. Whether you're a student hopping on your first route or a family looking for a reliable, stress-free commute, SamTrans school routes are ready to get you there. And this year is extra special — we're celebrating 50 years of connecting San Mateo County communities, and we'd love for you to be part of it. Start the school year on the right route and learn more at https://www.samtrans.com/schedules. Join the SamTrans 50th Anniversary Community Celebration on September 26, learn more at https://samtrans.com/50 We would like your input, the survey will evaluate familiarity with our various youth serving products and provide opportunities to give feedback on our current youth fares. Youth Fares Survey Thornton's Family Community Celebration Last night, Thornton High School brought families and staff together for a wonderful Family Community Celebration! The evening was filled with food, music, laughter, and plenty of family fun. Board Trustees Andy Lie and La Saundra Gutter joined Thornton staff and families in celebrating the strong sense of community that makes Thornton special. Terra Nova Celebrates California Biodiversity Week Terra Nova High School celebrated California Biodiversity Week (September 5–13) for the first time this year, engaging students and the school community in exploring local biodiversity. AP Environmental Science students conducted biodiversity walks around campus, using iNaturalist to identify and document organisms and trees. Their observations are being featured in a “Trees of Terra Nova” exhibit in the school library. During Biodiversity Week, APES students also participated in Biodiversity Bingo, while a daily Mystery Organism Challenge invited the broader school community to identify organisms featured in the school bulletin. Biology students will participate in their own Biodiversity Bingo activity later this fall, adapted from a California Academy of Sciences activity. Life Skills classes also contributed drawings of organisms found in Pacifica. Together, these activities help students see their campus as an accessible outdoor laboratory while building greater awareness and appreciation of local biodiversity. Jefferson stuns Capuchino with big kickoff return Terry Bernal Daily Journal staff It was quite the wild swing of events during the last five minutes of Jefferson’s 20-19 comeback win Thursday night over Capuchino at Carl Reyna Field. With the two teams meeting in non-league preseason play for the third time in three years — a head coaching matchup of former College of San Mateo teammates between Jefferson’s Imani Stewart and Capuchino’s Jay Oca — it’s safe to say this was their most fantastic finish yet. Billy Garcia, Jefferson football. The Grizzlies pulled off a dramatic 20-19 comeback victory at Capuchino thanks to an explosive kick return from Garcia. Cap jumped ahead 19-12 with under five minutes to play on a pick-6 from senior safety CJ Xerri. But Jeff fired right back, as Garcia cued up an 80-yard kickoff return to pull to within a point. An unsportsmanlike conduct penalty pushed the ensuing conversion attempt back to the 18-yard line, but that didn’t stop freshman quarterback Jeremiah Hodge connected with junior Dante Burch in the back of the end zone for the game-winning 2-point conversion. Read more in the San Mateo Daily Journal WHS Senior Sunrise Class of 2027 honored the school's time-honored tradition of meeting at the WHS field to watch the sunrise on this new school year, with donuts and hot cocoa in hand. We're excited to watch these 12th graders start and finish their final year here at Westmoor strong! Learning Beyond the Classroom! Culinary Arts students recently visited the Heart of the City Farmers’ Market in San Francisco, where they had the opportunity to connect directly with local farmers and learn more about where fresh, local ingredients come from. A great hands-on experience that brings classroom learning to life! Student Programs, Events, and Contest Congressman Kevin Mullin Military Service Academies Information Night September 8, 4:30-6:30pm Rep. Mullin will be hosting an information night for students interested in attending U.S. service academies at the San Mateo Main Library. Learn more and register. Safe Routes to School High School Transportation Advisory Board Sign-ups - Applications due September 11 The San Mateo County Safe Routes to School program encourages and enables students to walk and bike to school. Its High School Transportation Advisory Board brings students together who are passionate about making a difference in their communities. Apply. Sustainable San Mateo County Accepting Applications for Youth Advisory Council (Youth Ages 15 - 24) Apply by September 14 Sustainable San Mateo County is a nonprofit that works with local government and community leaders to address environmental, economic, and social equity issues. Learn more and apply. The Gates Scholarship - Apply Today! The Gates Scholarship (TGS) is a highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for outstanding high school seniors from low-income households. Applications accepted until September 15 For additional information, please visit our website. 2026 Roots & Wings Youth Symposium | 1990 Institute Due September 19 California State Board of Education is currently accepting applications for the 2027–28 Student Board Member position. Students who qualify for the Student Board Member position and wish to apply can access the application via the State Board of Education Student Board Member Recruitment web page at https://www.cde.ca.gov/be/ms/mm/sbestudentmember.asp, which also has more details on how to apply. Complete application packages must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026. Please submit your application at sbe@sbe.ca.gov or at https://www.cde.ca.gov/be/ms/mm/SBEStudentMemberApplications.asp. California Student Mock Election - Young people have the potential to be a powerful force in elections, but only if they get involved and make voting a habit. The 2026 California Student Mock Election will take place on October 6, for the General Election. Sign up by September 30 to participate. Learn more and register. United States Senate Youth Program - Transforming Schools: Superintendent’s Initiatives (CA Dept of Education) Deadline 10/7 Learn More Registration for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is now open! Since 2016, over 50,000 middle and high schoolers across the United States have created apps representing their passions, values, and service to our community. Entries due October 26 at 9am. Youth Unlimited - SamTrans provides free bus travel for eligible students. See your school cashier. Family Resources Your Role in Disrupting Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC) (Educators, Staff, Administrators, Parents/Caregivers, Community Members) New September 17, 5:30-6:30 p.m. In this presentation, Jeremy Latta, MSW, will help parents and educators understand Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC), including warning signs, recruitment tactics, and the prevalence of CSEC in San Mateo County. Register. Virtual Event: Joy is a Risk Worth Taking (Parents, Educators, Community Members) New October 7, 5:30-6:30pm As Stanford psychologist and educator Kelly McGonigal, PhD, reveals in her new book, Joy Is a Risk Worth Taking, joy gives life meaning, sustains hope, and helps us feel close to others. Join this free virtual event. Simultaneous Spanish interpretation will be available. Register. Daly City /Colma Chamber of Commerce Events Calendar Housing Support HIP Housing offers a range of housing services including rental housing, supportive housing for low-income parents and former foster youth, home sharing, and senior programs. Learn more. Food Resources The County of San Mateo provides resources for families facing food insecurity. Learn more. Know Your Rights Support Services - Learn More Center for Immigration Legal & Support - Learn More Accessing Oral Health Care Public Health Resources Learn more. San Mateo County Health Vaccine Guidance: (English | Spanish). San Mateo County Health Information: SMC Mobile Clinic Schedule Health Coverage Enrollment Assistance for Low- to Mid-income Residents or San Mateo Medical Center Patients (in English and Spanish) Understanding the California School Dashboard: What parents need to know | EdSource Youth Unlimited (K-12 Students) SamTrans provides free bus travel for eligible students. Learn more. Instagram Scan the QR code or @juhsd1 and use the hashtag #JUHSDProud to follow us on Instagram. Email: communication@jeffersonunion.net Website: www.juhsd.net Location: 123 Edgemont Drive Building A, Daly City Phone: 650-550-7900 .

Friday, Sep 11 2026

Superintendent Community Newsletter - September 4, 2026

Superintendent's Message September 4, 2026 Dear JUHSD Community, September is National Preparedness Month, a time to reflect on the importance of being prepared and knowing what to do in an emergency. At JUHSD, the safety and well-being of our students and staff is an ongoing priority. Our schools work closely with our local partners and San Mateo County Office of Education to ensure that we have clear plans, communication systems, and procedures in place to support our community during an emergency. While we hope our schools never need to put these plans into action, being prepared helps us respond calmly and effectively when unexpected situations arise. All San Mateo County schools follow The Big Five, a countywide emergency response framework that provides consistent guidance for keeping students and staff safe in a variety of emergency situations. I encourage families to take a few minutes to learn more about these procedures at The Big Five. JUHSD also has tools in place to help our community report concerns and respond quickly when help is needed. Our STOPit anonymous reporting system is available to students 24/7, and our Centegix badge system gives staff the ability to quickly alert administrators during an emergency. Preparedness is a shared responsibility. Thank you to our students, staff, families, and community partners for working together to create schools where everyone feels safe, supported, and connected. Have a wonderful weekend, and thank you for being an important part of the JUHSD community. With Appreciation, Toni Presta Superintendent A Message from the JUHSD Business Department We are looking for teachers, staff, students, parents and guardians in the JUHSD community that are interested in serving on a short term Budget Committee. Purpose - to discuss the status of JUHSD finances and determine recommendations for the Board of Trustees Minimum Commitment - Four meetings via Zoom on Wednesdays, 4:00pm-5:30pm on the following dates: September 23, October 14, November 4, and December 9 Optional Commitment - assist in preparing a report and presenting to the Board of Trustees, tentatively scheduled for the evening of January 12 There is no prior knowledge necessary to participate and all voices are valued. If you would like more information, please contact Tina Van Raaphorst at tvanr@jeffersonunion.net or (650) 550-7954 We hope you will consider participating: JUHSD Budget Committee Interest Form. A Message from the IT Department We are writing to inform you of a serious security incident. A student email account has been compromised and is being used to send phishing emails to students regarding a fake job opportunity . We strongly urge you to exercise extreme caution when opening emails, especially those with unexpected attachments or suspicious links. Do not click on links or open attachments in emails that seem suspicious or come from an unfamiliar sender. If you receive an email that appears to be from a known sender but seems unusual or out of character, please verify the sender's identity by contacting them directly through a known phone number or in person. Our IT team is actively working to contain the issue. To help prevent future incidents, we recommend the following: Be vigilant: Always be wary of suspicious emails, even if they appear to be from someone you know. Strong passwords: Use complex passwords for all your accounts and avoid reusing passwords. Report suspicious activity: If you believe you have been a victim of phishing or have encountered any suspicious activity, be sure to get in touch with your principal or the IT department immediately. Thank you for taking the time to look into this matter. September is Attendance Awareness Month Let's make this year a success for your child! Studies show that regular attendance is crucial for academic and life success. Here are some tips to keep your child on track: Prioritize attendance: Make sure your child is in school every day. Address health issues: Work with your child's doctor to minimize absences. Partner with the school: Stay involved and communicate regularly. Remember: Chronic absence – missing just two days a month – can have a significant impact. Let's work together to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive! Learn more on Attendance Works' website at www.attendanceworks.org. September is Suicide Prevention Month Did you know that more than 13,000 calls were made last year to the San Mateo County Crisis Line? Reaching out for help is a sign of strength—not weakness. Support looks different for everyone, and there’s no wrong way to ask for it. Together, as a community, we stand with those who are struggling and commit to guiding each other to the help we need. Learn more this Suicide Prevention Month at smchealth.org/suicide-prevention. September is National Preparedness Month Are you prepared for an emergency? San Mateo County schools use The Big Five - a common emergency plan adopted by all schools and law enforcement agencies. Knowing The Big Five can help you and your child stay safe in case of an emergency. Let’s raise awareness about the importance of being prepared for emergencies and disasters that could happen at any time. Learn more about The Big Five at www.smcoe.org/thebigfive. Jefferson High School’s Mission Fusion at San Mateo Arts Fest! Come support our talented Mission Fusion performers as they take the stage at Arts Fest San Mateo! They’ll be bringing their energy and creativity to the Cinema Plaza Stage from 1:15–1:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 26. We’re proud to see our students sharing their talents and representing Jefferson High School in the community. Don’t miss their performance! Downtown San Mateo - Free to Everyone Oceana Kicks Off the Year with Its First Rally! Oceana students came together for the first rally of the school year, bringing plenty of school spirit, energy, and excitement! It was a great opportunity to celebrate our community and kick off the year together. Tiger Pride was on full display at Terra Nova! Students and staff showed off their Tiger Pride for School Gear Spirit Day! From jerseys and T-shirts to school colors and gear, the Terra Nova community came together to celebrate their school spirit. Planning for What’s Next at Thornton! The Thornton Counseling Team has launched weekly Future Focus workshops for seniors and early graduates. These sessions guide students through the many postsecondary pathways available after high school—from college and career training to other opportunities—helping each student explore their options and create a plan for their future. Westmoor High School: Student elections are happening today! Link Crew is helping students understand the importance of participating in the election and making their voices heard as members of the Westmoor community. JUHSD Board Meeting Highlights - September 1, 2026 JUHSD September 1, 2026 Board agenda Watch the recorded meeting through the JUHSD YouTube Channel September 1 Board Meeting Highlights Transportation Department Update Confidential Salary Schedule Update Assistant to the Deputy Superintendent Job Description Additional Information and Upcoming Board meetings The next regularly scheduled Board Meeting will take place on Tuesday, September 15, 2026. Public open session begins at 7:00 pm (unless otherwise noted) on the JUHSD YouTube channel and in person at the New District Office, 123 Edgemont Drive, Daly City. JUHSD Governance Calendar Board Agendas Online Meet Our Trustees In Memoriam JUHSD has a longstanding tradition of honoring members of our beloved community who have passed. In order to ensure that we are informed, we ask that you follow a new process. If you would like a community member's passing to be acknowledged at a Board meeting, please complete the form and submit it by the Wednesday prior to that Board meeting. Student Programs, Events, and Contest The City of Pacifica is reaching out to once again share an exciting opportunity for teens to be a part of the City’s Library Advisory Committee and Climate Action and Resilience Committee. The application deadline is NOON on Friday, September 4, 2026. Please apply via https://tinyurl.com/PacificaCommittee. More information can be found on the City of Pacifica website via http://www.cityofpacifica.org/committees. Must be a Pacifica resident to Apply. Congressman Kevin Mullin Military Service Academies Information Night (High School Students and Parents) New September 8, 4:30-6:30pm Rep. Mullin will be hosting an information night for students interested in attending U.S. service academies at the San Mateo Main Library. See presentations about each academy and the nomination process. Students will also have an opportunity to meet and chat with representatives from the academies prior to submitting their applications. Learn more and register. California Student Mock Election - Young people have the potential to be a powerful force in elections, but only if they get involved and make voting a habit. The 2026 California Student Mock Election will take place on October 6, for the General Election. Sign up by September 9 to receive a printed toolkit and September 30 to participate. Learn more and register. Safe Routes to School High School Transportation Advisory Board Sign-ups - Applications due September 11 The San Mateo County Safe Routes to School program encourages and enables students to walk and bike to school. Its High School Transportation Advisory Board brings students together who are passionate about making a difference in their communities. Apply. Sustainable San Mateo County Accepting Applications for Youth Advisory Council (Youth Ages 15 - 24) Apply by September 14 Sustainable San Mateo County is a nonprofit that works with local government and community leaders to address environmental, economic, and social equity issues. Learn more and apply. The Gates Scholarship - Apply Today! The Gates Scholarship (TGS) is a highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for outstanding high school seniors from low-income households. Applications accepted until September 15 For additional information, please visit our website. 2026 Roots & Wings Youth Symposium | 1990 Institute Due September 19 Registration for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is now open! Since 2016, over 50,000 middle and high schoolers across the United States have created apps representing their passions, values, and service to our community. Entries due October 26 at 9am. Youth Unlimited - SamTrans provides free bus travel for eligible students. See your school cashier. Family Resources Virtual Event: The Role AI Should—and Should Not—Play in Education (Parents, Educators, Community Members) New September 10, 5:30-6:30pm In this free virtual event, author and educator Rebecca Winthrop, PhD, will explore how generative AI is reshaping learning and how parents and educators can help students maximize its benefits while reducing its risks. Simultaneous Spanish interpretation will be available. Register. Virtual Event: Joy is a Risk Worth Taking (Parents, Educators, Community Members) New October 7, 5:30-6:30pm As Stanford psychologist and educator Kelly McGonigal, PhD, reveals in her new book, Joy Is a Risk Worth Taking, joy gives life meaning, sustains hope, and helps us feel close to others. Join this free virtual event. Simultaneous Spanish interpretation will be available. Register. Daly City /Colma Chamber of Commerce Events Calendar Housing Support HIP Housing offers a range of housing services including rental housing, supportive housing for low-income parents and former foster youth, home sharing, and senior programs. Learn more. Food Resources The County of San Mateo provides resources for families facing food insecurity. Learn more. Know Your Rights Support Services - Learn More Center for Immigration Legal & Support - Learn More Accessing Oral Health Care Public Health Resources Learn more. San Mateo County Health Vaccine Guidance: (English | Spanish). San Mateo County Health Information: SMC Mobile Clinic Schedule Health Coverage Enrollment Assistance for Low- to Mid-income Residents or San Mateo Medical Center Patients (in English and Spanish) Understanding the California School Dashboard: What parents need to know | EdSource Youth Unlimited (K-12 Students) SamTrans provides free bus travel for eligible students. Learn more. Instagram Scan the QR code or @juhsd1 and use the hashtag #JUHSDProud to follow us on Instagram. Email: communication@jeffersonunion.net Website: www.juhsd.net Location: 123 Edgemont Drive Building A, Daly City Phone: 650-550-7900 .

Friday, Sep 04 2026