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  • Invitation: Community Forums - ADDITIONAL DATE!

    The SLCUSD Board of Education is asking for your help in selecting our next superintendent. To ensure this is a collaborative and inclusive process, the Board’s search firm will be hosting two THREE community forums. Translation will be provided at each forum. Wednesday, April 29, 2026 5:30 - 6:30 PM 1500 Lizzie Street, Room J2 San Luis Obispo, CA Thursday, April 30, 2026 6:00 - 7:00 PM Via Zoom ( Click here ) Monday, May 4, 2026 5:30 - 6:30 PM Los Osos Middle School Library 1555 El Morro Avenue, Los Osos, CA If you are unable to attend one of the forums, the Board is providing an anonymous online survey and encourages your participation. This is an opportunity for the Board to receive input from students, staff, parents, and community. Please follow this link to provide your input. The survey will be open from April 27, 2026 - May 11, 2026, at 4:00 PM For more information, visit our website at: https://www.slcusd.org/about/superintendent-search

    Wednesday, Apr 29 2026

  • The SLCUSD Board of Education Wants to Hear from You!

    The SLCUSD Board of Education is asking for your help in selecting our next superintendent. To ensure this is a collaborative and inclusive process, the Board’s search firm will be hosting two community forums. Translation will be provided at each forum. Wednesday, April 29, 2026 5:30 - 6:30 PM 1500 Lizzie Street, Room J2 San Luis Obispo, CA Thursday, April 30, 2026 6:00 - 7:00 PM Via Zoom ( Click here ) If you are unable to attend one of the forums, the Board is providing an anonymous online survey and encourages your participation. This is an opportunity for the Board to receive input from students, staff, parents, and community. Please follow this link to provide your input. The survey will be open from April 27, 2026 - May 11, 2026, at 4:00 PM For more information, visit our website at: https://www.slcusd.org/about/superintendent-search

    Monday, Apr 27 2026

  • SLCUSD Family Communication

    Family Communication News and Updates from the Superintendent's Office Board Message The SLCUSD Board of Education is asking for your help in selecting our next superintendent. To ensure this is a collaborative and inclusive process, the Board’s search firm will be hosting two community forums. Translation will be provided at each forum. Wednesday, April 29, 2026 5:30 - 6:30 PM 1500 Lizzie Street, Room J2 San Luis Obispo, CA Thursday, April 30, 2026 6:00 - 7:00 PM Via Zoom (Click here) If you are unable to attend one of the forums, the Board is providing an anonymous online survey and encourages your participation. This is an opportunity for the Board to receive input from students, staff, parents, and community. Please follow this link to provide your input. The survey will be open from April 27, 2026 - May 11, 2026, at 4:00 PM For more information, visit our website at: https://www.slcusd.org/about/superintendent-search Superintendent's Update Dr. Eric Prater Last week, people around the world paused to watch something remarkable: NASA’s Artemis II spacecraft journeying around the moon. For a brief moment, humanity looked outward - and then, just as powerfully, inward. From space, our planet appears as one small, bright, and beautiful sphere suspended in the vastness of darkness. Borders disappear. Differences fade. What remains is a shared home - fragile, interconnected, and full of life. As I followed this mission, I found myself thinking about our daily lives here in San Luis Coastal. Each of us is navigating our own path - supporting our children, balancing responsibilities, facing challenges, and celebrating small victories. At times, those challenges can feel immense. Our view becomes close-up, focused on the next task, the next worry, the next step. But Artemis II offers us a powerful reminder of what I like to call the “Zoom Out” effect. When we zoom out - when we step back, even just for a moment - we gain perspective. We remember that we are part of something larger than ourselves. We see the importance of kindness, of patience, of connection. We recognize that the relationships we build - with our children, our families, our neighbors, and our community - are what truly matter. From space, Earth is not defined by conflict or division, but by its beauty and possibility. And here at home, that same truth applies. A sunny afternoon, a shared laugh, a supportive word, a moment of understanding - these are the things that ground us and give meaning to our lives. Our students are growing up in a world that moves quickly and often feels complex. They benefit when the adults around them model perspective - when we show them how to pause, reflect, and appreciate the simple and meaningful parts of life. When we zoom out, we create space for empathy, for inclusion, and for a deeper sense of belonging. The journey to the moon is a bold and inspiring achievement. But perhaps its greatest gift is the perspective it brings us back here on Earth. It reminds us that we are all part of one planetary family, sharing this extraordinary place we call home. As we move forward together, I encourage each of us to take a moment to zoom out. Appreciate the beauty around you. Cherish the people in your life. Extend care and understanding to others. In doing so, we strengthen not only ourselves, but our entire community. Skills Lab in Action: Growing the Future Through AgTech This month, students across our district are exploring Agricultural Technology (AgTech) through the K12 Regional Skills Lab - engaging in hands-on learning that brings real-world innovation into the classroom. From farming systems and self-driving tractors to GPS monitoring, advanced irrigation, soil science, and AgTech entrepreneurship, students are discovering how technology is transforming the way we grow food and solve complex challenges. This work is especially meaningful on the Central Coast, where agriculture is a cornerstone of our economy and a hub of innovation. With leadership from institutions like California Polytechnic State University and University of California, Santa Barbara, our region is helping lead the future of AgTech—creating opportunities that connect science, technology, and sustainability. Through these experiences, students are building critical skills like problem-solving, collaboration, and adaptability, while gaining exposure to meaningful career pathways. This is what future-ready education looks like - relevant, engaging, and connected to the world our students are preparing to lead. Thank you for all you do each day to support our students and one another. Eric Educational Services Lisa Yamashita, Assistant Superintendent District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC) Meeting On Monday, April 13, the San Luis Coastal DELAC met via Zoom. The committee approved previous meeting minutes and discussed options for the Parent Education Funds for the 2026-2027 school year. The DELAC reps will take this information back to ELACs to discuss the priorities of the multilingual learner parent community. Maribel Chavez presented valuable information about the role of counselors in schools and resources available to students and families in schools as well as in the community. The committee discussed moving meeting dates to Mondays next year so as to not overlap with SLO Farmers Market, an important community event. The meeting concluded with public comment and site reports and the final meeting will be on Thursday, May 14 at the district office in J2. Literacy Night On Monday, April 20, SLCUSD hosted a Literacy Night at Pacheco Elementary for TK–1st grade students and their families. The event focused on building early literacy skills through the use of wordless picture books, encouraging creativity, storytelling, and language development. Families explored The Snowman by Raymond Briggs and created their own snowman craft as an extension of the book, using it to support storytelling and reinforce key literacy skills.

    Saturday, Apr 25 2026

  • SLCUSD Study Session Agenda

    Regular Board Meeting - Study Session ( Click Here ) Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 11:00 AM  District Office 1500 Lizzie Street - B3  San Luis Obispo, CA 93401   

    Monday, Apr 13 2026

  • SLCUSD Family Communication

    Family Communication News and Updates from the Superintendent's Office Superintendent's Update Dr. Eric Prater I hope this message finds you well and you are enjoying the spring season. I am grateful each day to serve such a caring, engaged, and resilient community. I’d like to share a few important updates and celebrations from across our district. Celebrating Student Creativity at SLOMA I am excited to invite you to attend a special student art installation hosted and curated by the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art (SLOMA). This inspiring exhibition features work presented by DPLA (Dedication, Purpose, Leadership Academy), a student leadership organization at San Luis Obispo High School that shares strong connections with our NextGen Scholars. We are also grateful to our San Luis Coastal Education Foundation, which is a proud sponsor of this event at no cost to attendees. Event Details: Friday, May 1 5:00 – 8:00 PM https://sloma.org/who-we-is/ SLOMA invites the public to experience this unique outdoor exhibition on the Museum lawn, showcasing powerful student work centered on identity, origins, and possibility. Through striking black-and-white photography, students use objects, places, and scenes as symbolic representations of who they are and who they are becoming. Each piece is paired with a personal prose reflection, offering insight into the artist’s past, present, and imagined future. This evening exhibition celebrates youth voice, storytelling, and the meaningful ways personal narratives shape our shared community. I hope you will join us in supporting and celebrating these remarkable students. Welcoming a New Leader: Ms. Petra Reynolds I am pleased to introduce Ms. Petra Reynolds as our new Executive Director for Student Support Services. Ms. Reynolds currently serves as Principal at Grover Beach Elementary School in the Lucia Mar School District and brings a wealth of experience, strong leadership, and a deep commitment to student advocacy - especially for our youth who struggle with disability or multiple hardships. In addition to her professional experience, Ms. Reynolds is also a member of our San Luis Coastal community, with children attending C.L. Smith Elementary and Laguna Middle School. She has already begun her transition, working closely with our departing Executive Director, Ms. Janet Gould, to ensure continuity and a strong start. I would also like to take a moment to recognize Ms. Gould, who was recently honored as San Luis Obispo County SELPA’s High Impact Award Winner -  Administrator of the Year. This recognition reflects her outstanding service and dedication to students with diverse needs. We are deeply grateful for her leadership and lasting impact. Looking Ahead: Senate Bill 931 We are also encouraged by recent developments at the state level. Senate Bill 931, co-authored by Senator John Laird and Assemblymember Dawn Addis, represents an important step forward for our district and local partners. Over the past several years, I have had the privilege of hearing from many of you - board members, parents, staff, and community members - who have spoken passionately about the importance of sustaining strong schools in San Luis Coastal. One message has stood out: “Our schools are the heart of this community, and investing in them is investing in our future.” That shared commitment has helped elevate this issue and ensure our collective voice was heard. This bill proposes to provide five years of funding (2026–2030) aligned with the continued operations at the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant. During this time, PG&E and the state legislature will evaluate the possibility of extending the plant’s operation further and potentially restoring Unitary Tax revenues that directly benefit our region. If these efforts come to fruition, San Luis Coastal could restore critical reserves, reinstate previously reduced programs, and address long-standing employee compensation needs. This would represent a meaningful step toward strengthening our district for the future. I am truly appreciative of Senator Laird and Assemblymember Addis for recognizing the impact these issues have had on our schools and community. Their advocacy - combined with the ongoing efforts of our School Board, the Parent Information Network Group, and many engaged and concerned citizens - has made a significant difference in bringing this forward. I am optimistic about the path ahead and grateful for the collective effort that continues to support our students. Thank you for your continued partnership, support, and dedication to our students. It is an honor to serve alongside you in this remarkable community. With appreciation, Eric Educational Services Lisa Yamashita, Assistant Superintendent Recently, our school community has been buzzing with supportive initiatives, exciting performances, and outstanding recognitions. Earlier this month, on April 2nd, Lisa Yamashita, Erin Roberts, and Angela Ryals hosted an important Parent Conversations presentation (click here) focused on technology and Apple parental controls. The session thoughtfully explored the impact of technology on our children, providing parents with hands-on guidance for applications designed to monitor online activity. Importantly, it also offered actionable strategies to help protect children’s mental health in today's increasingly digital world. The focus on student engagement and talent continues on the stage, as Morro Bay High School’s Theater Department is thrilled to announce their production of Mamma Mia! The highly anticipated performances kick off on April 10th and will run for two weeks. We encourage everyone in the community to try and attend to show their support for this great show and the hard-working cast. Looking a bit further ahead, a beautiful evening of art, music, and giving back is scheduled for May 14th from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at SLOHS located at 1499 San Luis Drive. Admission is free. A collaborative art show will showcase the creative talents of students from both SLOHS and LAMS. This inspiring showcase will run concurrently with a LAMS Choir concert and our Empty Bowls event at SLOHS, which raises vital funds for CAPSLO 40 Prado homeless shelter services. For a $20 donation, you will receive a handmade ceramic bowl, soup of your choice, dinner seating, and admission to the student art gallery. For more information, contact thoulle@slcusd.org. Amidst all these wonderful events, we also have a fantastic ongoing achievement to celebrate. Hawthorne Elementary School has officially been designated a Teach Kindness 2025-2026 Kind School! This special designation recognizes schools that are intentionally building cultures of kindness, belonging, and positive relationships for their students. We are incredibly grateful for the dedication of the Hawthorne team as they continue to do the vital work of creating a warm environment where every student feels genuinely supported and valued.

    Friday, Apr 10 2026

  • SLCUSD Board Meeting Agenda

    Regular Board Meeting Agenda ( CLICK HERE ) Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 4:30 p.m.  (Following 4:00 Closed Session in Room B3)  District Office Complex - 1500 Lizzie Street - Room J2 San Luis Obispo, CA   **Please note the 4:30 start time**

    Friday, Apr 03 2026

  • SLCUSD Family Communication

    Family Communication News and Updates from the Superintendent's Office Superintendent's Update Dr. Eric Prater As we head into spring break, I want to take a moment to thank you for your continued partnership and support. The care and guidance you provide at home, combined with the work of our educators, plays a vital role in helping our students grow, learn, and feel supported. I also want to share a trend that is beginning to gain attention and may be reaching some students - particularly adolescents. Recently, I listened to a podcast about online “prediction markets” (such as Polymarket). These platforms allow users to place money on the outcome of real-world events, ranging from elections and sports to broader cultural topics. While they are often presented as interactive or educational, they function in ways that are very similar to gambling. Adolescence is an important time for developing decision-making skills, managing risk, and understanding consequences. Engagement with platforms like these can sometimes lead to: Increased interest in risk-taking or gambling-like behavior Viewing real-world events as “wins and losses” rather than complex issues Frustration, anxiety, or stress tied to outcomes Greater appeal for students drawn to competition or high-risk environments You may notice this coming up in conversations at home or in how students talk about current events. This can be a helpful opportunity to check in, ask questions, and encourage thoughtful discussions about online activity, decision-making, and responsible choices. As always, our goal is to work together to support students in navigating an ever-changing digital world with confidence and awareness. I hope this break provides time for rest, connection, and recharge for you and your family. Thank you for being such an important part of our school community. Sincerely, Eric Educational Services Lisa Yamashita, Assistant Superintendent Sinsheimer Elementary Earns Gold for Schoolwide SEL Practices Congratulations to the entire staff at Sinsheimer Elementary on being featured in the recent CYBHI newsletter (Click here) from SLOCOE. This recognition highlights the outstanding work being done around Tier 1 and schoolwide social emotional learning practices (SEL). Their hard work is clearly paying off, not only in the significant decrease in referrals from last year to this year, but also in the positive culture and climate they continue to build at their school. These accomplishments are a testament to their dedication and commitment to their students and community. Parent Conversations: Technology and Apple Parent Controls Lisa Yamashita, Erin Roberts, and Angela Ryals will host a presentation for parents exploring the impact of technology on our children on April 2, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at the District Office in Room J2. The session will provide hands-on guidance with applications designed to monitor online activity, while also focusing on actionable strategies to protect children’s mental health in a digital world. The presentation will cover: Is your child truly ready for social media? We'll go beyond "magic ages" to help you evaluate your child's digital literacy and resilience. Protecting their Peace: Understand the "Social Media Effect" and how to prevent "panic scrolling" and sleep displacement. Outsmarting the Loopholes: Your kids are clever - learn how to move past "unbreakable fortresses" and start better digital conversations instead. Mentor, Don't Just Monitor: Discover how to shift your approach from being a "digital cop" to a trusted mentor. We hope to see you there!

    Friday, Mar 20 2026

  • SLCUSD Board Meeting Agenda

    Regular Board Meeting Agenda ( CLICK HERE ) Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Los Osos Middle School Library  1555 El Moro Avenue, Los Osos, CA

    Friday, Mar 13 2026

  • Message from the Superintendent

    Dear San Luis Coastal Families and Staff, I wanted to share a personal update with our school community. After thoughtful reflection and conversations with my family, I’ve decided to retire as Superintendent of San Luis Coastal Unified School District in July 2027. By that time, I will have had the privilege of serving 17 years in San Luis Coastal and 34 years in public education in California. It has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life to work alongside such dedicated educators, staff members, families, and community partners in service of our students. I also want to share a personal note of gratitude. This community has helped shape, educate, and support my three sons over the years from Parent Participation to Cal Poly. Watching them grow in our schools, guided by caring teachers, support staff, coaches, and site leaders, has meant the world to my family and deepened my connection to San Luis Coastal in ways that go far beyond my role as superintendent.  Over the coming weeks, the Board of Education will begin the process of selecting an executive search firm to help lead the superintendent search. The firm will work with the Board to gather input from staff, students, families, and community members through surveys and engagement opportunities to help identify the qualities our community hopes to see in the next leader of San Luis Coastal. The Board expects to select the next superintendent in early fall 2026, with a start date of July 2027. This timeline allows for a thoughtful transition and meaningful onboarding so our next leader is well prepared to continue the important work underway in our district. Between now and then, my focus remains the same as it has always been: supporting our students, our staff, and our schools. I look forward to continuing this work together over the next year and helping ensure a smooth and successful transition for the district we all care so deeply about. Thank you for your partnership, your trust, and for all you do each day to support the students of San Luis Coastal. With appreciation, Eric

    Friday, Mar 13 2026

  • SLCUSD Study Session Agenda

    Regular Board Meeting - Study Session Agenda ( click here ) Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 11:00 AM Pacific Beach High School 11950 Los Osos Valley Road San Luis Obispo, CA

    Monday, Mar 09 2026