May Newsletter

May Newsletter May 7, 2025 During the month of May, SB Unified has historically recognized the outstanding efforts of staff members who support students in every corner of our schools. From the classroom to the lunchroom and beyond, staff appreciation will take place all month long. Celebrations include School Principals Day (May 1), School Lunch Hero Day (May 2), National Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5–9), National Teacher Appreciation Day (May 6), and National School Nurse Day (May 7). Additional recognition will continue later in the month with California Day of the Teacher (May 14), National Speech Pathologist Day (May 18), and Classified School Employee Week (May 18–24).  Please join us in thanking all employees for their continued hard work and dedication to making the student experience a rich and engaging one where they feel pride and belonging.  As we continue into the month of May there will be many opportunities for celebrating student achievements and for sending our seniors into the world. We are very proud of our graduating students as they embark on their next chapter. Whether it's to attend a four-year university, a two-year college, immediately enter the workforce, enlist in the U.S. military or forge other paths, we know they are prepared to face the world! Enjoy the awards ceremonies, promotions and graduations, celebrate every accomplishment that your child achieves. It is through the everyday efforts that our students grow into their full potential.  Let’s celebrate all of them—from our littlest learners to our graduating seniors!  Finding Balance with Media and Tech Use at Home Video  English  Spanish Student & Family Services May Webinar: Social Media, Technology, and Cyber-Bullying We are happy to offer a free parent webinar this month through our partner, Daybreak. This session will help parents understand how social media impacts youth, set healthy digital boundaries, and recognize signs of cyberbullying. Parents will also have the chance to ask questions during a live Q&A with a licensed clinician. Class in English: Wednesday, May 21st | 5:00 PM PST / 8:00 PM EST Register Here Clase en Español: Jueves, 22 de mayo | 5:00 PM PST / 8:00 PM EST Regístrese Aquí Special Education Special Education Advisory Committee Meeting, May 7, 2025 The final Special Education Advisory Committee meeting of the year is scheduled for May 7, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the District Office Board Room. Childcare and snacks will be provided. We hope to see you there! Congratulations to Our 2024–2025 Santa Barbara SELPA Award Recipients! Please join me in congratulating the following outstanding team members for receiving the 2024–2025 Santa Barbara SELPA Award: Rosemary Tafoya, La Colina – Junior High Special Education Teacher Jacob Boone, DPHS – High School Special Education Teacher Kriti Hann, District Office – Special Education Clerk We’re so proud of their hard work, dedication, and the positive impact they make every day. Congratulations! Disability Awareness National Barrier Awareness Day, May 7, 2025 National Barrier Awareness Day is an annual observance that takes place on May 7 to encourage people to break down obstacles responsible for preventing the social integration of persons with disabilities. The day was initiated to dissolve stigmas keeping people with disabilities from advancing in education, social life, work, and other spheres of life. The holiday was initiated by President Ronald Reagan who called upon fellow citizens to observe this day with appropriate programs and activities. How to Observe National Barrier Awareness Day Looking for ideas on getting more involved with National Barrier Awareness Day? Check out a few of these ideas to get started: Speak Up About Barriers and Disabilities Those who have disabilities can use their voices to speak up by writing, speaking and taking other opportunities, like social media. This is a great time to tell stories and experiences about the challenges faced due to disabilities and the ways their communities can help tear down those barriers! Advocate for People with Disabilities One of the barriers that many people with disabilities face is that their voices can often go unheard. In honor of National Barrier Awareness Day, consider engaging with the disability community, learning more, and helping advocate for the needs of others. Become Familiar with Accessibility Features A great way for people in the world to engage with National Barrier Awareness Day is to learn more about the different features that can help people with disabilities online and in person. From making websites easier to read for those who are visually impaired to using an Accessibility Checker to make sure documents and PowerPoint presentations are compatible, just paying a little more attention can make a big difference to someone with a disability! SB Unified Apple Device Deals We're thrilled to announce an exciting partnership between Santa Barbara Unified School District and Second Life Mac. Together, we're hosting a Community Sale offering premium pre-owned Apple devices at incredible discounts, exclusively for our school community. 🍎 What: Santa Barbara Unified Community Sale on Apple Devices 📅 When: May 1 to June 13, 2025 🔗 Where: store.secondlifemac.com 🏷️ School Discount Code: SantaBarbaraSummer Why this partnership matters to our school community: Access high-quality Apple technology at a fraction of retail prices Support our school's sustainability initiatives Enhance learning opportunities both in the classroom and at home Bridge the digital divide among our students and families Santa Barbara Unified Board Recap: May 6, 2025 The Santa Barbara Unified School District Board of Education convened on May 6, 2025, to discuss a range of important updates, including school planning presentations, personnel actions, and recognitions. SPSA Roundtable Presentations The meeting featured a structured roundtable session where principals from each school site presented key highlights from their 2025–26 School Plan for Student Achievement (SPSA). These presentations provided an opportunity for principals to outline how each school will address site-specific student needs, aligned to district-wide Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) goals. Each principal was allotted 20 minutes to present their site’s three LCAP/SPSA goals, followed by a 10-minute Q&A with board and cabinet members. Presentations were held in breakout groups with participation from all five board members, one student board member, district cabinet staff, and 17 school principals. The roundtable format allowed for more in-depth discussion and tailored feedback prior to the final SPSA approvals scheduled for the May 27 board meeting. A link to each SPSA document and presentation is available here: SPSA Presentations & Drafts. Human Resources Actions The Board approved a variety of Human Resources recommendations, including appointments, reassignments, leaves of absence, resignations, and retirements. These actions support ongoing staffing adjustments across school sites and departments. The recommendations covered both certificated and classified employees, including the formal recognition of a temporary assignment now made permanent. Ethnic Studies Curriculum Implementation Update Artnelson Concordia, Teacher on Special Assignment, provided an update to the board on the progress in implementing the new curriculum for Ethnic Studies courses. The board learned that ES teachers engage in year-round Professional Learning designed to 1) cultivate teacher identity development and critical reflexivity 2) facilitate foundational content and pedagogical knowledge and skills 3) build a community of learning through praxis (action & reflection). It was reported that overall teachers have responded favorably to the professional learning provided. Community members and supporters were also present, providing validation for the field of Ethnic Studies and emphasizing its importance in our community. A video from the celebration of Ethnic Studies can be found here: Ethnic Studies Celebration Mental Health Awareness Month The Board adopted a resolution declaring May as Mental Health Awareness Month. The resolution acknowledges the vital role mental health plays in student success and well-being and encourages ongoing collaboration to reduce stigma, expand access to care, and support mental health initiatives across the district. The resolution reflects the district’s commitment to improving school climate and academic outcomes through comprehensive support systems. For additional updates and full agenda details, visit the SBUSD BoardDocs portal. Classroom Champion AVIS/Quetzal- Mr Boyce is an exceptional math teacher. He works with students both in our Quetzal and Alta Vista independent study programs. His down-to-earth and supportive nature is very assuring to students and his way of making difficult mathematical concepts accessible is to be commended. Help Inform Future Smartphone Use Policies at SB Unified! Dear SB Unified Families, Teachers, Staff, and Students, The Tech Use Committee is exploring ways to support student learning and well-being, specifically considering policies to reduce smartphone distractions during school hours. Your voice is critical as we evaluate the potential impact and interest in adopting a policy like all-day smartphone restrictions. Please take a moment to complete this short survey. Your thoughtful feedback will directly shape our next steps and recommendations. Thank you for your valuable input! Warm regards, Santa Barbara Unified School District SURVEY LINK

Thursday, May 08 2025

Friday Flyer May 2,2025

Friday Flyer May 2, 2025   Preschool Enrollment Dear Parents and Guardians, We are thrilled to announce that SB Unified Preschool Program is now enrolling for our half-day preschool program for the upcoming school year 2025-2026. Our program is designed to serve 3 old children offering both AM and PM sessions. Our high-quality licensed facilities are equipped with everything your child needs to have a fun and engaging learning experience.  We take pride in providing a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment that fosters your child’s development and prepares them for a successful transition to TK or kindergarten.  Enrollment is on a first-come, first serve basis, so we highly recommend that you enroll soon to secure your preferred session (AM/PM) and ensure that you are able to enroll at your home school. To pick up an enrollment packet, please visit us at 1030 E Yanonali st, room 33. We look forward to welcoming you and your child to our preschool program. Sincerely, Early Education & Support Office   Black Grad Celebration 2025  Join us in honoring the accomplishments of Black students from TK through City College across South Santa Barbara County. Hosted by SBCC Umoja in partnership with Santa Barbara Unified School District, this event celebrates promotion, culmination, graduation, and transfer. Sunday, May 18 | 2:00–5:30 PM SBCC East Campus – Student Services Courtyard Presented in collaboration with SBCC Foundation, NAACP Santa Barbara, Gateway Educational Services, BSU Alliance, Juneteenth SB, and Healing Justice Santa Barbara. RSVP by Friday, May 16:  https://forms.gle/jVhFyqGeBdRMhfJRA A-OK Performing Arts Showcase Join us for an exciting evening of music, dance, and creativity as our talented students take the stage to show what they've been working on in our after-school performing arts program! Salsa, Bachata, Hip-Hop & More! Featuring performances from partnerships with: Creative Netwerk Kathy's Music & Movement ME Sabor Jackie's Kids Come support our amazing young performers and celebrate their hard work and creativity. Friends, family, and community members are all welcome! Date:  May 14th Time:  5pm Location:  SB Sunken Garden Informational meeting about Alta Vista Middle College 5/20/25 Santa Barbara Unified families: Alta Vista Middle College at SBCC is hosting another informational meeting on Tuesday, May 20, for students looking to earn their high school diploma while also exploring college and career pathways at Santa Barbara City College.   Middle College is a hybrid independent study/college program, located on the SBCC campus. It combines independent study coursework delivered during one-on-one meetings with high school teachers, as well as SBCC classes with college professors and students. Middle College predominantly serves high school juniors and seniors, but also occasionally enrolls mature sophomores.  As students work towards earning their high school diploma, they also actively experience and learn how to succeed in a college environment. Some of the most important skills students report learning are time management, communication, and learning how to be resourceful and reach out for extra support as needed on campus.  It's also an excellent opportunity for motivated students to sample various potential college majors and career pathways. Students often graduate Middle College with about one year of college units on their transcript. Many students continue on at SBCC, while others apply to and attend four-year universities upon graduating from high school.  The upcoming Information Night is set for Tuesday May 20 at 6 pm in room A-160 at SBCC.  Students (along with their families) interested in joining Middle College in Spring or Fall 2025, are invited to attend. Please RSVP for the meeting by contacting Regina Freking at 805-897-3561 or  rfreking@sbunified.org 25-26 Preschool Enrollment Flyer.pdf Black_Grad_save_the_date_3.pdf A-OK Performing Arts Showcase 2025.pdf

Saturday, May 03 2025

Update: on Reduction in Force

The Santa Barbara Unified School District has avoided large-scale layoffs while still meeting its fiscal obligation to reduce the $9.4 million deficit.  After weeks of reviewing data on enrollment, staffing, and unfilled positions, the district identified a need to lay off only 3-5 employees. Arts and music are not impacted by the final layoffs, and there are no layoffs in the elementary schools. Following the board's direction, district staff identified other areas such as transportation and contracts in order to reinstate 3.5 FTE in the elementary arts, music and STEAM and the Instructional Support Specialists in English and Math.  This was achieved as a result of a combination of retirements, resignations, use of unfilled positions for impacted employees, and employee transfers to other positions. Actual enrollment at our high schools and junior high schools have increased slightly, and that also contributed to a lower number of layoffs.  Santa Barbara Unified is proud to employ the most dedicated and hard-working educators and support staff in the region. While the District would prefer that no employees are ever laid off, we are thankful for our work directly with CSEA and SBTA in navigating this challenging period, as together we were able to minimize the number of employees who would lose their jobs.  Employees affected will receive a compensation package, additional resources, and priority consideration in the rehiring process should future positions become available. Our commitment to serving our students, families, and community remains steadfast, and our mission remains unchanged: every child, every chance, every day.

Friday, May 02 2025

Your Voice Matters: Choose the Look of Our New Website

We are selecting a new website design for the district and our schools, and we need your feedback! We want to be sure it supports your work and communication needs.  Please take a few minutes to: Review the three finalist templates: Bethel Redding Madison Share your thoughts using THIS SURVEY on: What features or design elements you would like to see in our new website Which template do you prefer and why Anything you’d like us to avoid or change

Thursday, May 01 2025

Friday Flyer April 25,2025

Black Family Cookout Hosted by Healing Justice Santa Barbara, join us for a fun and meaningful event where our community can come together to laugh, learn, and create lasting memories.

Saturday, Apr 26 2025

Santa Barbara Unified Board Recap April 22, 2025

Santa Barbara Unified Board Recap April 22, 2025 April 23, 2025 Santa Barbara Unified Board Recap: April 22, 2025 The Santa Barbara Unified School District Board of Education convened on April 22, 2025, to discuss a range of important updates, take action on several key initiatives, and review committee proposals intended to shape the district’s future. Poetry Contest Winners Announced Superintendent Hilda Maldonado started her Superintendent report by inviting a sampling of winners for the 2nd annual poetry contest. Ms. Balcazar’s TK class from McKinley charmed the audience with their poem. This year’s theme was “change” and each winner shared their unique perspective on the theme. You may view their submissions on our webpage https://www.sbunified.org/ Employee Service Recognition Employees with longstanding service were honored for their dedication to the district, recognizing those who have served for 25, 30, and 35 years. Their enduring commitment reflects the heart and community of Santa Barbara Unified School District. They are also posted on our webpage. 35 Years Alfonso Romero - Head Custodian III Antonio Perez - Head Custodian II Evelyn Leyva - Library Technician Janette Peinado - Teacher Jorge Hernandez - Fire Al. Low Voltge Tech Rosalba Almanza - Accts Payable Tech Tracy Womack - Teacher 30 Years Carlos Ojeda - Teacher Carole Nevarez - Asst Principal Desa Mandarino - Teacher Elizabeth Mortensen - Teacher Eva Diaz Ortiz - Registrar Gerardo Gil - Teacher Gloria Medina - El Office Mnger II Jeannine Forslund - Career Counselor Jeffrey Weinbender - Teacher Jessie Wayne - Intrptr Hearing Imprd Kurt Berghold - Teacher Margaret Nicholson - Teacher Marilyn Garza - Teacher Roberta Ortega - Teacher Roxanna Stern - Induction Prog Coord. Tamara Montag - Teacher Vicki Hanes - Teacher William Zeledon - Teacher 25 Years Athena Sims - Counselor Blanca Hernandez - Spec Ed Para 1 Christopher Jones - Teacher Chrystee Bradley - Teacher Dominic Freking - Teacher Gina Cuevas - Food Srvc Prog Coord. Gwen Patterson - Spec Ed Para II Heather McBurnie - Teacher Jennifer Capshaw - Teacher Jennifer Cornejo - HR Info Splst Con Juan Lopez - Spec Ed Para IBI Judith Gonzalez-Sanchez - Program Liaison Julie Tabacchi-Grimes - Spec Ed Teacher Karen Polinsky - Teacher Marc Fidel - Teacher Marcia Gonzalez - Ed Data Splst I Olivia Perdices - Spec Ed Para 1 Raymond Ramos - Head Custodian II Regina Freking - Teacher Rita Newhouse-Czegledi - Spec Ed Teacher Robin Selzler - Teacher Rogelio Gallardo Gonzalez - Custodian Ruston Slager - Spec Ed Para IBI Tania Viscarra - Teacher Warren Takaya - Teacher Recognizing Employee Appreciation Month The Board unanimously approved a resolution designating May 2025 as Employee Appreciation Month. The resolution celebrates the contributions of certificated, classified, management, and other educational professionals who support the academic, social, and emotional development of SBUSD students. It recognizes specific appreciation days, including:  School Principals Day (May 1) School Lunch Hero Day (May 2) National Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5-9) National Teacher Appreciation Day (May 6) National School Nurse Day (May 7)  California Day of the Teacher (May 14) National Speech Pathologist Day (May 18) Classified School Employee Week (May 18-24) Approval of the Five-Year Facilities Master Plan The Board approved the district’s comprehensive Five-Year Facilities Master Plan (FMP), a strategic roadmap to modernize and maintain school facilities. Developed through community engagement and a Facilities Condition Assessment, the plan prioritizes critical repairs (e.g., HVAC, restroom upgrades, security enhancements), addresses longstanding needs at campuses such as San Marcos High School, and aligns infrastructure investments with enrollment trends and educational goals. Approval of this plan is also essential for the district’s eligibility for future state funding under Proposition 2. The board also requested a feasibility study to obtain recommendations on the future of the Armory, as well as enrollment projections to inform the future use of school facilities and programs. Second Amendment to COO Employment Agreement The Board approved a contract amendment for Chief Operations Officer Steven Venz, extending his employment through June 30, 2027.   Discussion Items Proposal: Special Technology Use Committee (2025) The Board reviewed a proposal to establish a Special Technology Use Committee, which would address compliance with California’s Phone-Free School Act by developing age-appropriate student smartphone policies ahead of the July 1, 2026 mandate. Beyond phone use, the committee would guide the responsible integration of classroom technology and artificial intelligence tools, promote digital citizenship, and recommend district-wide best practices.  Board member Beall will be working alongside Rob Cooper to explore the current structure of the committee and get feedback from its members.  Establishment: Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) A second proposal for the Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) was discussed, introduced to support long-term financial planning and promote fiscal transparency. The board will continue to discuss and explore its configuration and role. 

Thursday, Apr 24 2025

Support Santa Barbara Unified – Help Secure Funding ...

Starting in the 2025-26 school year, California is expanding transitional kindergarten (TK) eligibility to all 4-year-olds—but districts like Santa Barbara Unified were left out of the state funding formula. Despite being required to add a full new grade level, community-funded districts like Santa Barbara Unified receive  no  additional per-student funding  to support this mandate. Unlike LCFF-funded districts, we rely on local property taxes and do not receive the same base support from the state. This is not a choice—it’s determined by a state formula. All districts in Santa Barbara, Goleta, and Carpinteria fall into this category, so this funding gap directly affects our entire region. If Santa Barbara Unified were funded for TK at the same rate as LCFF districts, we would see an additional  $3,600,000  annually to support our students. Without this funding, TK programming is at serious risk and K–12 resources may be impacted. Here’s How You Can Help: We are urging community support for  AB 1391 , a bill introduced by Senator Dawn Addis (Morro Bay) to fix this funding inequity. Please take 5 minutes to send a letter of support before  Wednesday, April 23 : Download & Personalize the Letter  Add your name and details to the template letter (highlighted sections), print it, sign it, and scan it. Create an Account  Go to   https://calegislation.lc.ca.gov/Advocates/ , click  “Create an account,”  and follow the quick steps. Submit Your Letter  Log in, click  “Submit a Letter”  at the top left, and upload your signed letter for  AB 1391 . You can  personalize this template  by making a copy, editing, printing and signing your letter, and then scan or snap a photo of your completed form. Spread the Word  Ask friends, family, and neighbors to submit letters as well. Celebrate Your Impact  You just helped advocate for essential funding for our local students! Thank you for helping us fight for fair funding and protect the future of transitional kindergarten in our district.

Saturday, Apr 19 2025

Friday Flyer

Dear families, As spring fills our days with more sunshine, we’re also seeing the blooming growth and success from our students across every grade level, from our youngest learners in TK to our Seniors. This week, third-grade students had a special opportunity to bring their learning to life by attending a live performance by the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at the Granada Theater. As part of our new reading program, students have been learning about the life and impact of Alvin Ailey, a groundbreaking African American dancer and choreographer.  While the performance was open to all students in grades 3–6, it was especially meaningful for third graders who have been studying Ailey in their Wit & Wisdom lessons throughout April. This curriculum, adopted by the district last year, is already helping students build strong literacy skills, thanks to the dedication of our teachers. Through our partnership with UCSB Arts & Lectures, and at no cost to the district or families, students were able to experience this powerful and inspiring event. This is just one example of how our district nurtures a “garden of learning” that extends into the community. When students see their learning come to life beyond the classroom, they experience a deeper sense of connection, belonging, and safety. In the coming days and weeks, our students will be participating in state and national testing, including CAASPP/CAA, Advanced Placement exams, and/or English proficiency assessments. You can support your child’s success by encouraging a calm morning routine, making sure they get a good night’s sleep, and providing a quiet space to study. In the spirit of spring, we also recognize our gardeners behind the growth. Student success would not be possible without the dedication of our teachers, nurses, psychologists, counselors, social workers, family engagement liaisons, youth outreach workers, paraprofessionals, curriculum specialists, custodians, food service workers, maintenance staff, district office teams, and administrators. Together, they work tirelessly, both behind the scenes and in classrooms, to ensure every student receives an excellent educational experience and is prepared for their future. We are looking forward to celebrating all staff throughout the month of May and thanking them for everything they do to lay the foundation for our students’ growth and success. Humbly yours, Hilda Human Resources Update HR leaders are currently ahead of schedule in finalizing layoff decisions and identifying Reductions In Force Notices (RIF) notices that can be rescinded. This involves careful consideration of factors such as  enrollment, student course requests, site budgets, contract language, credential areas, seniority, and attrition . Key Updates: Elementary Schools: Starting this past Monday, work began on assessing the elementary RIF notices, and impacted employees will be notified on changes to their status.  Secondary Schools: Secondary staffing analysis is also ongoing. Staff are working towards finalizing all decisions by Friday, April 25th. We know that the uncertainty is difficult and are doing everything possible to inform staff on any updates to reduce this. We appreciate your patience during this process. School Site Plans for Student Achievement School principals are currently working with staff, parents and their School Site Councils to develop their plans for next year’s priorities and investments. These will be presented to the board on May 6th. The SPSA is  a comprehensive document that outlines a school's plan for improving student outcomes and overall performance. It serves as a framework for continuous improvement, focusing on raising the academic performance of all students and is connected to the District’s Local Control Accountability Plan known as the LCAP.  News & Media Literacy K-5     Help Kids Spot Fake News and  Decode Media Messages    English       6-12    Help Kids Spot Fake News and Decode Media Messages   English       SBUnified’s 2025 Poetry Contest All SBUSD students were invited to participate in the SBUnified Poetry Contest by submitting an original, unpublished poem related to the theme of: CHANGE! Winners will be announced on April 21, and honored during the April 22 Board Meeting. Follow SBUnified on social media or visit SBUnified.org for that announcement. Help Your Student Be Ready for Testing ELPAC, CAASPP, and AP testing season is here! It’s important that students come to school each day with their district iPads fully charged. A charged, up-to-date device helps ensure smooth testing and classroom learning.  Special Education Parent Trainings IEP Basics , Alternate Pathway to a High School Diploma for Students with Extensive Support Needs  from 5-6 pm via Zoom on the following dates: 4/17/2025  Meeting Link   4/28/2025  Meeting Link   4/30/2025  Meeting Link NAMI Speaker Meeting Join us for a conversation with Rachael Steidl, Executive Director and Founder of YouthWell, a nonprofit organization working to prevent youth mental health crises in our community. Rachael will share her insights into mental health resources available for young adults and their families. Black Family Cookout Hosted by Healing Justice Santa Barbara, join us for a fun and meaningful event where our community can come together to laugh, learn, and create lasting memories. Call for Nominations for SBUSD Committee Advancing Black Achievement, Wellness, and Excellence (CABAWE) - Due April 25 SBUSD is seeking your nominations for the Committee Advancing Black Achievement, Wellness, and Excellence (CABAWE), which advises on efforts to support the success and well-being of Black students, families, and staff in our district.

Saturday, Apr 19 2025

Support Santa Barbara Unified – Help Secure Funding ...

Starting in the 2025-26 school year, California is expanding transitional kindergarten (TK) eligibility to all 4-year-olds—but districts like Santa Barbara Unified were left out of the state funding formula. Despite being required to add a full new grade level, community-funded districts like Santa Barbara Unified receive  no  additional per-student funding  to support this mandate. Unlike LCFF-funded districts, we rely on local property taxes and do not receive the same base support from the state. This is not a choice—it’s determined by a state formula. All districts in Santa Barbara, Goleta, and Carpinteria fall into this category, so this funding gap directly affects our entire region. If Santa Barbara Unified were funded for TK at the same rate as LCFF districts, we would see an additional  $3,600,000  annually to support our students. Without this funding, TK programming is at serious risk and K–12 resources may be impacted. Here’s How You Can Help: We are urging community support for  AB 1391 , a bill introduced by Senator Dawn Addis (Morro Bay) to fix this funding inequity. Please take 5 minutes to send a letter of support before  Wednesday, April 23 : Download & Personalize the Letter  Add your name and details to the template letter (highlighted sections), print it, sign it, and scan it. Create an Account  Go to   https://calegislation.lc.ca.gov/Advocates/ , click  “Create an account,”  and follow the quick steps. Submit Your Letter  Log in, click  “Submit a Letter”  at the top left, and upload your signed letter for  AB 1391 . You can  personalize this template  by making a copy, editing, printing and signing your letter, and then scan or snap a photo of your completed form. Spread the Word  Ask friends, family, and neighbors to submit letters as well. Celebrate Your Impact  You just helped advocate for essential funding for our local students! Thank you for helping us fight for fair funding and protect the future of transitional kindergarten in our district.

Friday, Apr 18 2025

April 8, 2025 Board Recap

Santa Barbara Unified Board Meeting Update April 9, 2025 The Santa Barbara Unified School District Board of Education convened on April 8, 2025, to discuss a range of important updates, including the ongoing implementation of the new secondary math curriculum, appointments to the Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee, and appointment of Assistant Superintendent for Business Services. Secondary Math Curriculum Implementation Report The board received its second update on the phased implementation of the Amplify Desmos Math curriculum for grades 7–12. This year marks Year 1 of the rollout, covering Math 7, Math 7/8 Compaction, and Math 8. Key highlights include: Professional Learning: Teachers engaged in multiple training sessions throughout the year—led by Amplify Desmos coaches—focused on unit assessments, math language routines, and collaborative planning within PLCs. Observation & Coaching Tools: Administrators are using the Amplify Desmos Observation and Coaching Tool, which provides a framework for assessing instructional delivery, classroom procedures, and differentiation. Teacher Feedback: Teachers noted the higher rigor of the new materials and increased student engagement, particularly with interactive digital elements. Student Assessment & Data Use: Teachers are piloting digital assessments via the Amplify Desmos platform. Next Steps: The district will continue refining practices for Tier 1 instruction, expand feedback loops, implement a systemwide math assessment and data use strategy in 2025–26, and prepare for the Math I curriculum launch next year. Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee Appointments The board approved the appointments of Joanna Kettmann and Sujittra Barnick to the Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC). Ms. Kettmann joins as a parent and PTA member, while Ms. Barnick brings her perspective as an at-large community representative. Congratulations to both appointees, and thank you for volunteering to support transparency and accountability around the district’s use of bond funds. Your service plays a critical role in maintaining public trust and oversight. Employment Agreement Approved: Conrad Tedeschi The board also approved a new employment agreement with Conrad Tedeschi, who will assume the role of Assistant Superintendent for Business Services effective July 1, 2025. His responsibilities will include oversight of the district’s business and non-instructional operations such as budget and fiscal management, facilities, transportation, nutrition services, purchasing and payroll. Conrad brings deep leadership experience to the district, and we look forward to his strategic contributions to Santa Barbara Unified’s continued financial stewardship and operational excellence.

Thursday, Apr 10 2025