Dear Team PUSD,
It is so exciting to see so many of our students engaged and contributing to our schools and community. I believe it's never too early to develop students as leaders. One of those groups is my Superintendent’s Student Advisory Committee, pictured above. This is a diverse group of students from all six of our high schools. We meet every month, and I am so impressed by their passion, willingness to learn, and desire to represent all students in District decisions. I am excited for what we will accomplish together!
It really seems like October might be one of the busiest months for our schools! I didn't think it was possible to fit so many events into 31 days! From PUSD's Annual College and Career Fair, to multiple band and color guard field tournaments and high school homecomings, to Red Ribbon Week and the Great Shakout Drill, it's been quite a whirlwind! Please continue scrolling through the newsletter below to enjoy some photos and read more about what's been going on in our schools this month. I am so grateful to the staff and volunteers who work behind the scenes to ensure the success of these events and activities on behalf of our students.
Last week, I was invited to represent PUSD in Washington, D.C. to receive our official acceptance into the National Network of Innovative School Districts. It is an honor to be invited to join this group of forward-thinking leaders in education. It's also a good reminder that our work is never finished, as we continue to look for more ways to empower our students to become world-class learners. We know our students are already making an impact in our community and beyond: like Westview's Kara Fan, who was just named America's Top Young Scientist in 3M's national challenge for her project on liquid bandages!
Congratulations to Kara and to all of our students and staff who work so hard each and every day to ensure college, career, and life readiness for all.
I look forward to the upcoming State of the District event next month, where our new leadership team will be able to share all of the progress and accomplishments that #TeamPUSD has achieved in the past year, including academic gains, fiscal improvements, impacts to safety and security, as well as technology and innovation initiatives. Look for more information on the State of the District and our many successes, coming to you soon!
Best,
Marian Kim Phelps, Ed.D.