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Embracing the New Year: January SLUSD Update!
 
SAN LEANDRO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
"Making Excellence Our Tradition"
January, 2024

(Pictured New Lincoln High School multipurpose room)

Dear SLUSD Community,

Welcome back! I hope you are returning from break rejuvenated and ready for all that 2024 has to offer. As we enter the new year, it’s a great time to refocus on our goals and commit to continuous improvement.
To keep improving our schools, we need to upgrade our facilities consistently. In SLUSD, we've worked on better classrooms, libraries, and school spaces for the past decade. We're committed to continuing this trend and creating engaging 21st-century learning environments that'll benefit students for years to come. Learn more about Measure J on the March 5th ballot later in this update, and find out how it affects your school from your principals. Your support is essential for the future of our schools.

We invite you to join us for district and school planning sessions in the next few months to shape our future directions in SLUSD. Keep an eye out for details from your schools soon.

Here's to a productive and successful new year!

Dr. Mike McLaughlin
Superintendent


FACTS ABOUT MEASURE J


On Tuesday, March 5, San Leandro residents will vote on Measure J, a $174 million facilities improvement bond measure, to fund critical facility upgrades & improvements for SLUSD schools.

Funds will be used at schools throughout SLUSD for

Repairing deteriorating roofs, plumbing, and electrical systems
Funding up-to-date technology for high-quality instruction and career technical education in science, math, and engineering
Building a new library, music rooms, classrooms, and a student center at San Leandro High School
Upgrading existing and building new classrooms, allowing all of San Leandro’s four-year-olds to attend public school
Improve outdoor areas, including playgrounds, outdoor learning and meeting areas, and landscaping
Design, acquire, and construct housing for teachers and staff, including all related amenities and facilities

Clear accountability measures, including a Citizens Oversight Committee and annual independent audits, ensure funds are spent in accordance with the ballot measure. All money stays in San Leandro and benefits San Leandro's children. No money can be used for school administrator salaries. There is no increase to current estimated tax rates for San Leandro property owners. Look for more information about what this means for your school from your school leaders.

See the previous construction improvements we accomplished with Measure N in this video:



SCHOOLS SHOWCASE

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Garfield Elementary
13050 Aurora Drive, San Leandro, CA 94577
Phone: 510-618-4300
Principal Anna Malki

Before the break, Garfield Gators were encouraged to arrive at school before 8 AM to enjoy a cup of hot cocoa, and they got so many takers! The line stretched around the playground! Thank you, students and families, for coming out to build community!


 

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Halkin Elementary
1300 Williams Avenue, San Leandro, CA 94578
Phone: 510-618-4370
Principal Virginia Quock

At Halkin, we understand that music is key to building community and deepening learning! We have learned that scientists in Sweden found that when people sing together, their hearts begin to beat in the same rhythm. We also know that music helps us learn and fortify language structures. For example, we sing: "Snowflakes falling on the ground, snowflakes fall in front of my eyes," instead of just saying, "I see snow." Music keeps older students in middle school and high school engaged and offers opportunities for leadership. Music is a lifelong journey, and we are so grateful to begin it here at Halkin!


 

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Jefferson Elementary
14300 Bancroft Avenue, San Leandro, CA 94578
Phone: 510-618-4310
Principal Natalie Valencia

Jefferson enjoyed a visit from the Grinch and Jaggy the Jaguar before the winter break. Laughter and cheer filled the halls as students and staff embraced the mischievous charm of the Grinch while Students of the Month got a special photo opportunity.


 

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Madison Elementary
14751 Juniper Street, San Leandro, CA 94579
Phone: 510-895-7944
Principal Paulette Smith


We are thrilled to share that Computer Science at Madison School Community provides our students with incredible opportunities to engage in hands-on Computer Science activities! Our students are working with Lego Education, Dash, and Sphero robots and exploring Scratch Coding! Additionally, they have been participating in unplugged computer science activities, allowing them to learn and explore without needing screens. We are especially thrilled to see how this experience is not only exciting for the students but also helping to level the playing field in STEM. 


 

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McKinley Elementary
2150 E. 14th Street, San Leandro, CA 94577
Phone: 510-618-4320
Principal Malika Campbell


This year, McKinley TK students are featured in the annual informational campaign for SLUSD! Look for these sweet faces on billboards and buses throughout San Leandro, and thank you to the staff, students, and families for supporting the district in getting the word out about enrollment opening on January 1. Everyone BELONGS in SLUSD!


 

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Monroe Elementary
3750 Monterey Blvd., San Leandro, CA 94578
Phone: 510-618-4340
Principal Jeannette McNeil

Monroe spent the last day before Winter Break with a book and a blanket to celebrate the community connections that come with the holiday season. All of the Eagles enjoyed snuggling up, soaking up their time together, and reading as a family.


 

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Roosevelt Elementary
951 Dowling Blvd., San Leandro, CA 94577
Phone: 510-618-4350
Principal David Kumamoto

Roosevelt held a Fishing Derby at Lake Chabot, generously sponsored by Mr. Gatus, on Saturday, December 2. Despite the overcast weather, students and parents had a blast hanging out. Fishing took a bit of a hit, but the real catch was the good times had by all at this community builder.


 

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Washington Elementary
250 Dutton Avenue, San Leandro, CA 94577
Phone: 510-618-4360
Principal Monica Manriquez

Washington Elementary is proud to share the talent of their Ballet Folklorico group! The 4th and 5th-grade students dazzled the audience with an amazing performance. The energy and skill on display showcased the vibrant spirit of Washington Elementary's artistic and cultural community.


 

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Bancroft Middle School
1150 Bancroft Avenue, San Leandro, CA 94577
Phone: 510-618-4380 
Principal Jeff Sloane
 

Broncos enjoy Fun/WIN Days at Bancroft! These days serve a dual purpose for students. If they have passing grades, they have a blast in Fun Classrooms! These specially designated spaces offer various activities such as basketball, soccer, movie screenings, crafts, and more. Students needing extra support and those with any failing grades to WIN (What I Need) Classrooms. Here, targeted assistance is provided to help students catch up and connect with their teachers. It's a day of fun and academic empowerment! See the recap video here!


 

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John Muir Middle School
1444 Williams Street, San Leandro, CA 94577
Phone: 510-618-4400 
Principal Elisa Alvarez
 

Muir wrapped up 2023 on a high note with the 12 Days of Cheer tradition, courtesy of the leadership class. Students enjoyed daily activities for the last 12 days of school to spread joy and build camaraderie. Not just about fun and games, two standout events—silly stringing the administrators and a staff versus students volleyball game—pulled double duty as fundraisers for a family in need. The celebration wasn't just about bringing happiness; it was also a meaningful way to support the community.


 

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San Leandro High School
2200 Bancroft Avenue, San Leandro, CA 94577
Phone: 510-618-4600 
Acting Principal Maite Barloga

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined and backed this year's holiday door decorating contest! The array of stunning and imaginative entries truly illuminated the holiday spirit. Congratulations to our 1st place winners who tied for the top spot: Ms. Meersman's enchanting "Winter Wonderland" in Room 102 and Ms. Lo's delightful "Minions" creation, also in Room 102. Your creativity made this festive season even more magical!


 

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Lincoln High School
1700 Leonard Drive, San Leandro, CA 94577
Phone: 510-618-4460
Principal Matt Steinecke

Lincoln students conducted a scientific inquiry to determine which fake snow was the best.  Following a unit on polymers and chemical reactions, students were able to “test” which substances made the best snow.  There's a definite difference between looks and texture!


 

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San Leandro Virtual Academy
1700 Leonard Drive, San Leandro, CA 94577
Phone: 510-618-4460
Principal Matt Steinecke

SLVA Sharks came together to celebrate the end of the semester with hot chocolate and games. Teachers, students, and parents were able to sit with each other, share some snacks, and play games.  We are always happy to see our students and build community!

 

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San Leandro Adult and Career Education Center
1448 Williams Street, San Leandro, CA 94577
Phone: 510-667-6287
Principal Bradley Frazier

The Winter/Spring schedule of classes is online, and now registering! Check out new classes like Clinical Medical Assistant, Medical Terminology II, and Your Creative Self. Go to their website to learn more and register today! https://www.slusd.us/sladultschool/.



UPCOMING FAMILY LEARNING SERIES

SLUSD offers online parent and community educational support sessions that provide essential information and strategies for parents/caregivers to support their child’s growth and development. Join an upcoming session:

Wednesday, January 10 from 5:00 – 6:00 pm
Topic: New Year, New Routines
Happy New Year! Instead of New Year's resolutions, let's focus on setting clear and achievable intentions for 2024. Join us, parents and guardians of TK-12th grade students in San Leandro, to reflect on your goals and aspirations. The session includes discussions, raffle prizes, and translations in Spanish and Chinese.

Join Zoom Meeting

Wednesday, January 17 from 5:00 – 6:00 pm
Topic: Special Families 
Join us to connect, reflect, and renew. This interactive session is a landing pad for parents and families to share experiences, strategies, and tips, offering support and celebration. Let's intentionally acknowledge the end of one chapter in our story to make space for the next beginning. Spanish/Chinese translation provided.

Join Zoom Meeting

Tuesday, January 30 from 5:30 – 6:30 pm
Topic: Single & Co-Parenting Family Landing Pad
Ring in the new year with gratitude, joy, and purpose. Clarify achievable goals to boost success. Take a moment for self-reflection and discussion in the Family Landing Pad virtual space for SLUSD families. This session supports single and co-parent families with TK-12th grade students. Raffle prizes available! Spanish and Chinese translations provided.

Join Zoom Meeting


DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. ORATORICAL FESTIVAL & POETRY SLAM


SECONDARY PROGRAMS/SUBJECTS FAMILY PATHWAY NIGHTS 2023-2024

Math Pathways Information Night -  Jan 11 @ 6 pm
What does your student’s math journey look like in middle school and high school? What are their course options, supports, and opportunities from grades 6 to 12? Join us on Thursday, January 11 at 6 pm on Zoom for an overview of secondary math course pathways in SLUSD for your current or future middle or high school student. Spanish and Cantonese interpretation will be provided, and the session will be recorded and shared with all schools.
Zoom link:  https://slusd-us.zoom.us/j/86998349866?pwd=SUIwMERVS084TFdJZjlmNG5aWUlUZz09

History-Social Science/ Science Pathways Information Night - Tues Jan 23 @ 6 pm
What does your student’s History/Social Studies and Science journey look like in middle school and high school? What are their course options from grade 6 to 12? Join us on Tuesday, January 23 at 6 pm on Zoom for an overview of secondary history-social science and science course pathways in SLUSD for your current or future middle or high school student. Spanish and Cantonese interpretations will be provided.
Zoom link: https://slusd-us.zoom.us/j/85877288008?pwd=QktpemN4S2R5YnM0dy9FVTZhbHcydz09

Career Technical Education with Pre-Apprenticeship Pathways Information Night - Mon Jan 29 @ 6 pm
What does your student’s journey look like in middle school and high school when it comes to career technical education and pre-advocation pathways? What are student course options from grades 6 to 12? Join us on Monday, January 29 at 6 pm on Zoom for an overview of course pathways in SLUSD for your current or future middle or high school student. Spanish and Cantonese interpretations will be provided.
Zoom Link: https://slusd-us.zoom.us/j/87020447021?pwd=dUQrNmtZaDMzcjVJV1RLc2JPQm9IUT09

World Language Pathways Information Night - Thurs Feb 1 @ 6 pm
What does your student’s World Language journey look like in middle school and high school? What are course options from grade 6 to 12? Join us on Thursday, February 1 at 6 pm on Zoom for an overview of secondary world language course pathways in SLUSD for your current or future middle or high school student. Spanish and Cantonese interpretations will be provided.
Zoom link: https://slusd-us.zoom.us/j/85760399071?pwd=UTRxa1FsMEdwM0lRNWFaSTAwS0xpZz09

English Language Arts/English Language Development Pathways Information Night - Monday February 5 @ 6 pm
What does your student’s English Language Arts (ELA) journey look like in middle school and high school? What are their course options, supports, and opportunities from grades 6 to 12? What if they are an English Learner? 
What are the requirements and benefits of English Language Development (ELD)? Join us on Monday, February 5 at 6 pm on Zoom for an overview of secondary ELA/ELD course pathways in SLUSD for your current or future middle or high school student. Spanish and Cantonese interpretations will be provided.
Zoom link: https://slusd-us.zoom.us/j/84145271575?pwd=YVhGTkl2aC9wOW81R2x1a0pubDlJQT09

San Leandro Unified School District | 835 E. 14th Street, Suite 200, San Leandro, CA 94577
Phone: (510) 667-3500
Email: communications@slusd.us

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