• September 16, 2026 Board Brief

    SB Unified Board Brief September 16, 2026 September 16, 2026 Board Meeting Recap This article summarizes the September 16, 2026, Board of Trustees Meeting. The full agenda is available on our website: Board Meeting Agenda SB Unified Sets Sights on Higher Achievement Targets as Preliminary Test Scores Show Continued Growth State Assessments, Local Benchmarks, and Classroom Implementation Data to Shape Strategic Priorities for New 3-Year LCAP Preliminary 2025-26 CAASPP results show Santa Barbara Unified continuing a multi-year upward trend in English language arts and mathematics. Districtwide, the percentage of students scoring Proficient or Advanced in ELA grew from 50.1% in 2022-23 to 53.3% in 2025-26. In mathematics, results increased from 38.1% in 2022-23 to 43.9% in 2025-26. “While these results show steady, multi-year growth, our ultimate goal is for every single student to perform at or above grade level,” said Superintendent Dr. Hilda Maldonado. “Steady progress is encouraging, but we need to accelerate our efforts to hit our target goals faster. We are doubling down on what works: high-quality instruction and driving targeted interventions where support is needed most.” The districtwide performance distribution also shifted over the four-year period. In ELA, the share of students in the Minimal performance level declined from 27.1% in 2022-23 to 24.1% in 2025-26, while Proficient/Advanced increased from 50.1% to 53.3%. In mathematics, Minimal declined from 36.3% to 33.5%, while Proficient/Advanced increased from 38.1% to 43.9%. “These encouraging results show gains that align closely with the focused efforts underway across the District and reflect our Core Priorities of academic achievement, supportive school environments, family and community engagement, and sustainable use of resources,” said Board President William Banning. “There is still work to do, but we’re encouraged by the progress and remain committed to high-quality instruction, professional learning communities, and responsive systems of support. We will continue using data to strengthen teaching and learning and ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive.” As Santa Barbara Unified prepares its new three-year Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP), district leadership will use these multi-year trends to establish ambitious performance goals and target funding where it will have the greatest impact on student learning. To establish these higher targets, Santa Barbara Unified is evaluating a comprehensive range of data, including preliminary CAASPP results, local benchmark assessments, and classroom implementation metrics to inform funding and instructional priorities in the upcoming 3-Year Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP). Student-group results also show areas of progress and continued need. The district’s interactive data dashboard provides multi-year results by grade, school and student group, along with English Learner Progress Indicator data. Explore the Dashboard The 2025-26 results are preliminary and were locally aggregated by Santa Barbara Unified from California Department of Education TOMS data as of Aug. 31, 2026. Final state-published results may differ slightly. San Marcos Health Careers Academy and Wellness Center Moves Forward The Board approved the next phase of the San Marcos High School Health Careers Academy and Wellness Resource Center project. The project will replace aging portable classrooms with permanent specialized learning spaces for the Health Careers Academy and modernize the school’s Wellness Resource Center. Construction is scheduled to begin in October 2026 and continue through December 2027. The Board also approved an updated partnership with the Royal Pride Foundation, which is committing up to an additional $1.5 million toward the project. School Highlights Santa Barbara Unified launched a new Superintendent’s Report feature to help the Board and community learn more about each school. Harding University Partnership School Principal Gabriel Sandoval and La Colina Junior High School Principal Jennifer Foster kicked off the series, highlighting their school communities, priorities and work underway this year. Hispanic Heritage Month The Board proclaimed Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month, recognizing the histories, cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. More than 60% of Santa Barbara Unified students identify as Hispanic, and the resolution highlights the value of students’ cultural perspectives, experiences, and home languages. Attendance Awareness Month The Board recognized September as Attendance Awareness Month, emphasizing the connection between regular attendance and student success. Santa Barbara Unified is focusing on prevention, early intervention, family partnerships and personalized outreach to address barriers that can keep students from attending school. District Meets Key Financial Requirements The Board approved Santa Barbara Unified’s 2025-26 unaudited actuals, which provide a year-end accounting of District revenues, expenditures and fund balances. The report shows the District met state and federal requirements for classroom spending, salaries and benefits, special education funding and its minimum 3% General Fund reserve. Finance Committee Reviews Reserve Policy The Board received an update from the Finance Committee on potential changes to the District’s reserve policy. The committee recommended establishing a target range for reserves and conducting a risk analysis to help determine appropriate minimum and maximum levels. The analysis is expected to return to the Finance Committee in October as it develops a final policy recommendation. In-House Legal Counsel Reduces Costs Santa Barbara Unified’s move to an in-house general counsel model is saving the District approximately $343,000 per year, a roughly 50% reduction compared with historical legal costs, fulfilling the projections the Board relied on when it approved the model in 2025. Outside counsel spending has fallen to near zero for routine legal work, while specialized outside attorneys continue to be used when needed. Beyond the dollar savings, the in-house model has provided faster legal support for schools and departments, expanded staff training, and more efficient District systems that support early identification and resolution of legal issues. Teacher Contract Negotiations Santa Barbara Unified and the Santa Barbara Teachers Association publicly presented the topics each proposes to negotiate as part of successor contract negotiations. The District and SBTA both proposed compensation, health and welfare benefits, hours and conditions, and rights and obligations of the parties. The District additionally proposed reassignment provisions, and SBTA additionally proposed safety. This was the first of two Board meetings where the parties will publicly present their bargaining topics, which is required before formal collective bargaining can begin later this fall. District Closed Monday for Board Holiday As a reminder, the District has a Board Holiday on Monday, September 21st. All schools and the District Office will be closed. To see a list of District Board Holidays, along with the school calendar, please visit our website. Celebrations or Questions? If you have an SB Unified celebration or question to share, please email info@sbunified.org.

    Friday, Sep 18 2026

  • Santa Barbara Unified School District Joins Lawsuit ...

    SB Unified Updates September 3, 2026 Santa Barbara Unified School District Joins Lawsuit Against Social Media Companies Dear Parents and Guardians, The safety, well-being, and academic growth of our students are among our highest priorities at Santa Barbara Unified. We take our responsibility very seriously, both in protecting them and in preparing them for a digital world. In our schools, we use technology with clear intent. Digital tools are incorporated into our classrooms to enhance instruction, foster collaboration, spark creativity, and prepare students for success in higher education and future careers. We want technology to serve as a bridge to learning, not a distraction from real human connection and mental wellness. For that reason, Santa Barbara Unified has chosen to join a national lawsuit against Meta, TikTok, YouTube, and Snapchat for their role in fueling a mental health crisis among students nationwide, harming our youth and draining school resources in the process. We join more than 1,500 school districts from around the country seeking to hold social media companies accountable for design choices and manipulative algorithms that actively harm young people. Millions of minors nationwide have become addicted to these platforms. Research shows that children and adolescents who spend more than 3 hours a day on social media face double the risk of mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. Those conditions directly impact attendance, academic performance, and overall well-being. To ensure technology remains a positive force in our schools, Santa Barbara Unified continues to invest in: Digital Citizenship Education: Teaching students how to navigate online spaces safely, practice cyberbullying prevention, and build healthy habits around screen time. Expanded Mental Health Support: Counseling, wellness centers, and district-wide resources to support students struggling with anxiety or emotional distress. Purposeful Solutions: Curated learning platforms designed strictly for educational growth, critical thinking, and secure collaboration. Santa Barbara Unified is represented by the Frantz Law Group, whose lawsuit seeks policy changes and financial compensation from social media companies for the increased cost of mental health services straining school district budgets nationwide. As adults, we can partner together by modeling responsible social media behavior and establishing healthy technology boundaries at home. When school and home align on intentional technology use, our students thrive both academically and emotionally. Sincerely, Hilda Maldonado, Superintendent Santa Barbara Unified School District

    Thursday, Sep 03 2026

  • August 11, 2026 Board Meeting Recap

    SB Unified Board Brief August 17, 2026 August 11, 2026 Board Meeting Recap This article summarizes the August 11, 2026, Board of Trustees Meeting. The full agenda is available on our website: Board Meeting Agenda Summer Learning Recap Educational Services leaders provided an update on the impact summer school had on District students. It was a season of learning, growth, and new experiences across Santa Barbara Unified. Elementary programs served 371 students, with 85% of students assessed showing academic growth. Another 210 students participated in Extended School Year, while secondary students worked toward getting back on track through credit recovery, completing 569 courses. Serving Up Summer Learning wasn’t the only thing happening this summer. Santa Barbara Unified served more than 35,000 free meals to children 18 and under, reaching 500 to 1,500 kids each day. Meals were available at more than 13 locations, bringing healthy food beyond our campuses and into parks, community centers, and the Santa Barbara Public Library. Budget Update Santa Barbara Unified is set to receiveone-time funding through the new state budget, including approximately $9.8 million for student support and professional development and another $2.4 million for learning recovery. Because final amounts and spending plans are still being developed, the District will incorporate the changes into its First Interim Budget, as specific amounts are not yet known and planning for these items still has to be done. Reserve Policy Discussion The Board gave guidance on the process to establish a specific minimum reserve level requirement in Board policy. The conversation builds on the District’s existing policy of maintaining enough reserves to support financial stability and prepare for unexpected costs. The discussion will continue in Tuesday’s Finance Committee meeting before coming back to the Board in a future meeting. Celebrations or Questions? If you have an SB Unified celebration or question to share, please email info@sbunified.org.

    Monday, Aug 17 2026

  • Spaces Available: 26-27 Preschool Enrollment

    SB Unified Updates July 27, 2026 26-27 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 2026-2027. Our program is designed to serve 3 and 4-year-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-served 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 Celebrations or Questions? If you have an SB Unified celebration or question to share, please email info@sbunified.org.

    Monday, Jul 27 2026

  • July 22, 2026 Board Brief

    SB Unified Board Brief July 22, 2026 July 21, 2026 Board Meeting Recap This article summarizes the July 21, 2026, Board of Trustees Meeting. The full agenda is available on our website: Board Meeting Agenda Student Board Member Sworn In The Board of Trustees officially welcomed Victoria Martinez Peñaranda as Santa Barbara Unified's student board member for the 2026-27 school year. Victoria is a student at Alta Vista Middle College and will serve as the voice of students during Board meetings throughout the coming year. She brings a strong background in student leadership and youth mental health advocacy through her work with the Wellness Connection Club and YouthWell Youth Advocacy Board. The District looks forward to the perspective and leadership she will bring as she represents students across Santa Barbara Unified. Board Adopts Technology Resolution The Board of Trustees adopted a resolution establishing a long-term framework for the intentional use of technology to support teaching and learning across Santa Barbara Unified. The resolution affirms the District's commitment to balancing the benefits of technology with student well-being, digital citizenship, privacy, safety, and equitable access to learning. As part of the resolution, the Board directed staff to: Develop a districtwide screen use policy with age-appropriate guidance and bring it back for Board consideration. Continue strengthening student privacy, cybersecurity, and digital citizenship practices. Develop guidance for the responsible use of artificial intelligence in schools. Expand opportunities for family engagement and education around healthy technology use. Return to the Board with implementation plans, cost analyses, and regular progress updates. This resolution establishes the framework for future work. Additional policies and recommendations will come before the Board for public review and consideration in the coming months. Board Honors Two Longtime School Employees The Board of Trustees honored two longtime Santa Barbara Unified educators by dedicating campus spaces in recognition of their lasting contributions to students and school communities. La Colina Junior High School: The Board affirmed the campus's central stage as The David L. Ortiz Palm Stage in honor of former Principal David Ortiz, who led La Colina for 22 years. The stage, a gathering place for promotions, celebrations, and school traditions, reflects his enduring impact on generations of students, families, and staff. Dos Pueblos High School: The Board affirmed naming the campus Greek Theater The Scott Guttentag Greek Theater, recognizing Scott Guttentag's 36 years of service to Dos Pueblos, including 33 years as Activities Director. Affectionately known as "Mr. DP," Guttentag helped shape the school's culture, traditions, and sense of community while supporting generations of students. Celebrations or Questions? If you have an SB Unified celebration or question to share, please email info@sbunified.org.

    Wednesday, Jul 22 2026

  • Santa Barbara Unified Free and Reduced Meal Applicat...

    SB Unified Updates Family Newsletter July 9, 2026 In the coming weeks, Santa Barbara Unified School District will be mailing Free and Reduced Meal Applications to all families for the upcoming school year. Families who would like to complete their application sooner may do so online at https://www.myschoolapps.com/. Confidential Information: All the information provided on this application is strictly confidential. Federal and state laws (such as the National School Lunch Act) require schools to protect your family's income and application data. This information can only be used to determine eligibility for school nutrition programs or in connection with authorized state educational and health programs. We strongly encourage every family to complete a Meal Application. Completing a Meal Application provides far more than just meal eligibility information. The data collected from these applications directly impacts the amount of state and federal funding our district receives. This funding helps support vital educational resources, smaller class sizes, student support programs, and other important services that benefit all students. In addition, qualifying households may be eligible for valuable benefits, including: College application fee waivers Discounts on standardized testing, such as the SAT and ACT Reduced athletic or extracurricular participation fees Sun Bucks summer grocery benefits for eligible children An approved Meal Application is required for many families to automatically receive these important benefits. We encourage every household to complete a Meal Application, regardless of income. Your participation helps strengthen our schools and ensures families receive all of the benefits for which they may qualify. Thank you for supporting Santa Barbara Unified and helping us provide the best possible educational experience for all students. Celebrations or Questions? If you have an SB Unified celebration or question to share, please email info@sbunified.org.

    Thursday, Jul 09 2026

  • Santa Barbara Unified Board of Education Recap

    Welcoming New District and School Leaders As part of Santa Barbara Unified's tradition of introducing leaders who are stepping into new roles, the Board welcomed several administrators who will help guide our schools and district in the year ahead. Dr. Marianne Hew was introduced as the district's new Assistant Superintendent of Student and Family Services after serving as Executive Director of Secondary Education. Kimberly Sheriff Brown was welcomed as the permanent principal of Monroe Elementary, following her time as interim principal and previous service as assistant principal at Washington Elementary. The Board also welcomed Xochitl Tafoya as the new principal of Cleveland Elementary, where she will bring her leadership experience from La Cumbre Junior High and Franklin Elementary. Planning for Student Success in 2026–27 Trustees adopted three interconnected planning documents that will guide the district's work during the coming school year: the 2026–27 Budget, the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP), and School Plans for Student Achievement (SPSAs) for all 18 schools. Together, these plans align resources and goals around academic achievement, student wellness, school culture, family engagement, and pathways to college and careers. District leaders also highlighted progress in improving Santa Barbara Unified's financial outlook, reducing the structural deficit from $20.6 million to $9.7 million through increased local revenue and strategic spending reductions. The adopted budget continues investments in literacy, mathematics, mental health services, and student support programs while maintaining a focus on long-term financial stability. Agreements and Compensation for Employees The Board approved negotiated agreements with both the Santa Barbara Teachers Association (SBTA) and the California School Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 37. The agreements include updates to compensation, working conditions, professional learning opportunities, and employee benefits. In addition, compensation increases were approved for employees across the district. Teachers, certificated managers, and classified managers will receive a $1,500 salary increase, while classified employees represented by CSEA and confidential employees will receive a 2.5% salary increase effective July 1, 2026. These actions recognize the contributions of the employees who support student learning, school operations, and family services throughout the district. Community Schools Grant Expands Student and Family Supports The Board approved Year 2 implementation plans for the Community Schools Grant at Harding University Partnership School, La Cuesta Continuation High School, La Cumbre Junior High School, and McKinley Elementary School, and received an update on the program's first year of implementation. Funded through a five-year state grant, the initiative brings hubs of services and programs for students, staff, families, and surrounding communities to community school campuses. The program emphasizes expanded learning opportunities, family partnerships, integrated student supports, and collaborative decision-making to help remove barriers to learning and strengthen outcomes for students. Track Repairs at Peabody Stadium During ongoing repairs at Santa Barbara High School's Peabody Stadium, crews discovered significant underground erosion and drainage issues that were not visible during the initial project assessment. To address these findings, the Board authorized additional work to stabilize the area, repair storm drainage infrastructure, and restore affected sections of the facility to be ready by the start of school. Completing these repairs now will help protect the long-term safety, reliability, and usability of one of the district's most heavily used athletic venues. Next Step for San Marcos Health Careers Academy and Wellness Center The Board held a public hearing to gather community input on a proposed state-funded grant application for the construction of the San Marcos High School Health Careers Academy and Wellness Center. The project is designed to expand career pathway opportunities in healthcare while enhancing student wellness resources on campus. The hearing marks an important step in the district's effort to secure state funding for the project and continue creating innovative learning environments that prepare students for future careers while supporting their overall well-being. Technology Resolution Reviewed by Board The Board reviewed a proposed board resolution on the intentional use of technology in teaching and learning, which included recommendations related to student screen time, digital learning, student privacy, and artificial intelligence. Following the discussion, the Board requested additional refinement, including a more clearly defined implementation plan and revised language, before considering the resolution at a future meeting.

    Thursday, Jul 02 2026

  • 6/9 Board Meeting Recap

    Board Honors Graduating Student Representative The Board of Education started the meeting with honoring  Carlos Taft Vazquez , who is wrapping up his year of service as the student board member. Board members praised Taft Vazquez for his clarity, leadership, and unwavering commitment to keeping the student voice at the center of every district decision. He graduated from San Marcos High School on Wednesday. The district thanks Carlos for his dedicated service and wishes him the best in his next chapter. Public Hearing Held for 2026-2027 Proposed Budget The Board held a public hearing to gather feedback on the District’s proposed budget for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year. Presented by Conrad Tedeschi, assistant superintendent of business services, the preliminary budget details estimated financial spending, revenues, and general fund summaries for the next year. State law requires school boards to hold a formal public hearing to listen to community input before any final budget can be officially approved. Community Shares Input on District Strategy Plan (LCAP) Along with the budget, the board hosted a public hearing for the 2026-2027 Local Control and Accountability Plan, commonly known as the LCAP. The LCAP is a state-required, three-year roadmap that details the district's goals for student success and outlines exactly how budget resources will be spent to support all students, with a specific focus on English learners, low-income students, and foster youth. The public hearing provided an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to share their feedback on the district's priorities. What’s Next?  The board will review the community feedback and cast a final vote to adopt the 2026-2027 school year budget and LCAP at its next scheduled meeting on Tuesday, June 23. 106-Unit Affordable Housing Project Approved for District Staff The board officially approved agreements to build a 106-unit affordable apartment complex near San Marcos for local teachers and school staff. Located on 3.65 acres near Hollister Avenue, the project is designed to help educators afford to live in the high-cost community where they work. Notably, the project will cost local taxpayers nothing; the developer is bringing in $60 million in private and federal financing, meaning no district general funds or bond money will be used. Key Details: The Setup:  The district retains ownership of the land under a 99-year lease, and the property will be managed by the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara. Priority Housing:  Out of the 106 apartments, Santa Barbara Unified employees will be prioritized for 97 units. Rent will be income-restricted to keep units affordable. Community Support:  The remaining units include eight set aside for veterans and one for an on-site manager. Board Approves Emergency Learning Plan The board approved a new Instructional Continuity Plan, a state-required roadmap that ensures all students can keep learning without disruption during a natural disaster or unexpected school emergency. Evolving from the lessons learned during the 2020 pandemic closures, the updated plan ensures families and schools stay connected. Key parts of the plan include: Fast Communication:  The district guarantees two-way communication with families within five days of an emergency using ParentSquare in both English and Spanish. Tech and Lessons:  Learning will resume within 10 days. Junior high and high school students will use their district-issued iPads, while preschool through sixth-grade students will primarily use paper-based learning materials. Meals and Mental Health:  If schools close, the district will launch "grab-and-go" meal services at central hubs. Staff will also prioritize live, virtual wellness check-ins with students to provide mental health and counseling support. Extra Support:  The plan builds in specific protections to ensure students with disabilities, English learners, and foster or homeless youth have full access to their lessons, therapies, and school materials. Secondary Math Update: Real Feedback and Smarter Rollouts The board received a progress report on the district's junior high and high school math curriculum, Amplify Desmos Math. To see how the rollout is going, the district partnered with WestEd to survey nearly 3,000 students and 55 teachers. The baseline surveys provided valuable feedback: The Good News:  A strong majority of students (79% in high school and 88% in junior high) say their teachers are pushing them to explain  why  they think the way they do, rather than just memorizing answers. Areas for Growth:  Only 29% of high schoolers see how what they are learning connects to real life, and teachers expressed a need for better training to support students who are performing below grade level. What’s Next?  Instead of rushing into the next phase, the district is intentionally slowing down the rollout of Math II and Math III for the 2026–2027 school year. This adjustment gives teachers more time to collaborate, align their pacing, and focus on student group discussions and real-world connections. Individual schools are also introducing new classroom routines next year to boost student confidence and teamwork. Board Reviews Annual Teacher Feedback Survey The board reviewed the annual State of the Union report, which surveyed its members to identify areas for systemwide improvement. District leadership will use this baseline feedback to guide upcoming planning and improve working conditions across all campuses. Anniversary Pins The District celebrated 62 employees who served the District for 25, 30, 35, 40, and 45 years in the District. To give two, three, or even four decades of your professional life to one mission is a profound statement. It means they didn't just take a job; they chose a calling. Those employees have been the steady hands, the familiar faces, and the bedrock of support for generations of Santa Barbara’s children. Please join us in celebrating and thanking them!

    Tuesday, Jun 16 2026

  • Summer iPad Update

    Dear Students, As the school year comes to a close, we want to let you know about changes to student iPads for Summer 2026. What Will Happen to Student iPads This Summer? Students currently in grades 3–7 Your iPad will be collected and kept at your school over the summer. Current 7th-grade students (who will be 8th graders next year) will also leave their iPads at school so they can be updated with a new content filter before the next school year. Current 8th-grade students (who will be 9th graders next year) Your iPad will remain with you, but it will be disabled during the summer. This is intended to encourage a healthy balance of screen-free time during the break. Students in PEAC and students enrolled at Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) are exempt and will continue to have access to their devices. Need Access to Your iPad This Summer? If you are a current 8th-grade student and need your iPad re-enabled, you can: - Complete the summer access  request form - Visit the high school you will attend in August - Parents can call the ETS Helpdesk at (805) 963-4338 ext. 4357 - Visit the ETS Helpdesk at 720 Santa Barbara Street High School Students Students currently in grades 9–11 (who will be in grades 10–12 next year) will keep their iPads over the summer. Families may request that a device be disabled for the summer by completing the  summer access request form . All devices will be re-enabled before the start of the new school year so students can receive important school information and updates.

    Tuesday, Jun 09 2026

  • June Family Newsletter & Summer Reminders

    Unified Link Santa Barbara Unified Family Newsletter June 3, 2026 Dear Santa Barbara Unified Families, One week left and for many in our community, this year has been anything but easy. Yet we persevered together. Our students showed up with resilience, curiosity, and heart, even when the world outside felt uncertain. Thank you to the staff and families who held them steady every step of the way. Enjoy and celebrate these last days together, and have a restful, peaceful summer. As summer approaches, I encourage students to also find ways to keep learning. Summer is a great chance to unplug, recharge, and try something different. Here are some ideas to help our students thrive during the break: Dive Into a Good Book: Let’s trade some screen time for reading. Picking up a book during the summer keeps our minds active and helps us discover new ideas. Step Into Nature: We’re lucky to live in a beautiful place. I encourage families to get outside, enjoy our local trails and beaches, and take a break from screens. Explore and Create: Summer is perfect for creativity. Encourage your children to paint, write, build, cook, or play music. Learning by doing helps them grow. Connect and Give Back: Learning can happen anywhere. Volunteering, joining a summer program, or making new friends at the park all help build community. Celebrating Pride Month As June begins, Santa Barbara Unified is proud to celebrate Pride Month. We want every student to feel safe, valued, and accepted for who they are. Our diversity makes us stronger, and we will keep working to make our schools welcoming and inclusive. Thank you for partnering with us this year. Let’s finish the last week strong, celebrate our graduates, and look forward to a summer filled with discovery, joy, and rest. Warmly, Dr. Hilda Maldonado Superintendent Santa Barbara Unified School District Summer Device & Technology Updates As we wrap up the school year, Santa Barbara Unified’s Educational Technology Services (ETS) team is focusing heavily on preparing student devices for a safe, successful upcoming school year. Please review the critical updates below regarding summer maintenance, device returns, and account access. On-Device Safety & Maintenance (Summer Work) To improve student safety, device reliability, and ensure proper grade-level settings, ETS will be performing mandatory maintenance on student iPads: 7th-Grade iPads: In June, ETS will collect all current 7th-grade iPads to install and test a new on-device content filter to ensure safer, more reliable browsing. Elementary iPads: The team will be updating and checking all elementary student iPads to ensure they have the correct configuration and settings for their upcoming grade level. Action Required: Device Returns Are you leaving the district or graduating? All departing students must return their school-issued equipment. Please note: Students cannot keep or purchase their school-issued devices. What to return: Your district-issued iPad, charging block, and charging cable. When & Where: Return your equipment during your school's scheduled collection times during the last week of school. Missed the deadline? You can drop off your device at the ETS District Office by June 27, 2026 (Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). Looking to buy a personal device? If your family would like to purchase a refurbished iPad or laptop, you can visit our partner site at Second Life Mac. Use coupon code SBUsummer for a $20 discount (a portion of the sale is donated back to our district). Summer Account Access & File Backups Returning Students: You will retain full access to your District accounts (Google, Aeries, Canvas, etc.) over the summer break. Graduating Seniors / Non-Returning Students: Your access to district accounts will end shortly after the school year concludes. Action Item: If you want to keep your schoolwork, projects, or files, you must export them before your account is deactivated. Click here for step-by-step instructions on how to export your Google Drive files. Additional News: AI Task Force The District’’s AI Task Force recently held its first focus group. This team of teachers, students, parents, and district leaders is collaborating to develop district recommendations regarding AI governance, academic integrity, data privacy, and professional learning. Thank you for your cooperation, and have a wonderful, safe summer break! Enroll Now: SB Unified’s State Preschool Program for 2026-2027! The Office of Early Education & Support is now enrolling 3- and 4-year-olds for our high-quality State Preschool Program for the upcoming school year. Our programs help spark curiosity, build social skills, and prepare children for a lifetime of learning. Program Highlights: Who: Serving 3 & 4-year-old children Where: Convenient school district campuses When: Both AM & PM sessions available Cost: Eligibility is based on state income qualifications How to Enroll: You can pick up an enrollment packet in person at: Franklin Children’s Center, Rm 33 📍 1030 E. Yanonali St. 📞 For questions, call (805) 963-8685 Spaces are limited, so visit us today to secure your child's spot for a bright school year ahead! Free Summer Meals Summer is almost here, and we want all our students to stay healthy, energized, and active! SB Unified is proud to offer FREE, nutritious meals to all kids 18 and under in our community this summer. No registration, no cost, and no paperwork are needed; just stop by! Please remember, all meals must be eaten on-site. Important Note: All sites will be CLOSED on June 19th and July 3rd in observance of holidays. Adults can also buy meals (Breakfast: $4.25 / Lunch: $6.50). If you have questions, contact Director Matt Dittman at 805-963-4338 ext. 6387. Let’s have a happy, healthy summer! Unplug & Unfold a Book with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library! Summer is here! Trade some screen time for storytime with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, brought to you locally by SB Unified, First 5, and United Way. If you have a child from birth to age 5, you can sign up to get a free, high-quality book mailed to your home every month. Let’s help our little ones unplug, explore, and read outside this summer! Sign up today: Visit unitedwaysb.org/imagination-library to enroll for free. IEP Family Participation Survey Your input is important for supporting your child’s education. Please take a few minutes to complete this survey about your experience with your child’s IEP. Your feedback helps us understand how families experience IEP meetings and guides us in improving our support for students, families, and school teams. Together, we can make positive changes where needed. SBUSD IEP Family Participation Survey Link - English SBUSD IEP Family Parent Participation Survey Link - Spanish Celebrations or Questions? If you have an SB Unified celebration or question to share, please email info@sbunified.org.

    Thursday, Jun 04 2026