Dear Community,

We have seen a flurry of executive orders impacting education, which may cause concern about the stability of our educational systems. I write today to share that executive orders do not create new laws, change existing ones, or provide legally binding rules for schools. Instead, they direct federal agencies on how the President wants them to enforce current laws. Without action from Congress or the courts, most executive orders do not directly alter legal requirements for districts. Schools do not need to immediately modify their policies or practices based solely on executive orders.

I remain in close contact with our County Superintendent, fellow Superintendents, and our County Attorney’s office regarding legal implications of executive orders and will continue to do so. We are unwavering in our commitment to support students in the inclusive school environments they deserve. We are steadfast in our advocacy for the safety, wellness and academic success of every student.

For those interested, I am linking two recent press releases from California leaders, State Superintendent Tony Thurmond and Attorney General Rob Bonta:

• 2/3/25 – State Superintendent Thurmond Encourages All California Educators to “Stay Focused,” Shares News of Temporary Restraining Order Against Trump Administration’s Efforts to Pause School Programs

• 2/4/25 – Attorney General Rob Bonta: California Schools Will Remain a Welcoming, Inclusive, Safe Place for All

Additionally, I want to highlight that SB54 (California Values Act) remains in effect since its passage in 2018. As a Sanctuary State, California law enforcement does not engage in immigration enforcement. I have spoken with both the Daly City Acting Police Chief, as well as the Pacifica Police Chief, who have assured me that their departments engage only in criminal issues, not immigration issues. Further, I have been assured that ICE has no intent to come onto school campuses. That said, we are prepared with protocols, and a signed warrant must be presented to me, the superintendent, if they do come onto campus.

I thank you for trusting JUHSD with your children. I pledge that I will protect them as my own.

Warm regards,

Toni Presta

Superintendent

@superintendent_tonipresta

On Monday, February 17th, we celebrate the leadership and vision of all the presidents who have shaped our nation's history to support justice and equality for all in our country.

Thank you to all who have fought to keep these values at the core of our nation

It’s Random Acts of Kindness Week! Being kind towards others can inspire our children and youth to be kind as well. It’s also easy to do! We encourage you to do something kind today for those in need, and help encourage others to do the same to make San Mateo County a safe place for all.

Information for the District's 2025 Summer School Program is here!

We are proud to announce a number of learning pathways to support your students and their learning experiences here at JUHSD. To learn more about course offerings and the summer school registration process, please take a look here (Spanish Version, and Tagalog Version). The location is at Westmoor High School, and the first day of summer school is June 4, 2025.

Parents and Guardians, please note that:

• Students who are in need of meeting graduation requirements will be identified by the school counselors, and they will communicate with both students and you about enrolling into the summer school.

• Students can also complete the summer school registration process at Westmoor front office with the drop-in counseling during June 2 - June 6, 2025 from 8:30am to 1:30pm.

• Students who are interested in taking the acceleration/enrichment courses (Math course 3, Spanish 1, and a CTE class) will need to submit an application through this link.

Click for Translation in Spanish, Tagalog, Arabic, Chinese, and Portuguese

We invite you to join our upcoming District Advisory Committee (DAC) Meeting, where we will discuss and review important aspects of our district's Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP). Your input is invaluable in shaping the future of our schools and ensuring the best outcomes for our students.

Agenda:

• Review the current the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP)
• Examine progress towards local and state indicators
• Conduct a needs assessment to identify areas for district improvement and student success

Please RSVP below if you are interested in being a part of the District Advisory Committee Meeting.

https://bit.ly/juhsd-dac2425

For questions, please contact Kareen Baca at kbaca@jeffersonunion.net

JUHSD is dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive space where every child can learn and grow. We uphold the rights and dignity of all students, regardless of immigration status or background.

• Printable Red Cards (available in multiple languages)
• Frequently Asked Questions on Student Records and Immigration (English/Spanish/Tagalog)
• Know Your Rights (English/Spanish/Chinese)
• Daly City Youth Health Center Individual and Family Services - Fridays: 10 am - 1 pm
• Immigration and Student Safety Community Letter

Every family should have a Family Preparedness Plan in case of an emergency. It is critical for immigrant families to think ahead and set more concrete plans for immigration emergencies that can arise. See the Immigrant Legal Resource Center's Family Preparedness Plan.

Click on Image(s) to Access in Spanish and Tagalog

Jefferson Union School District is cordially invited to join Canada College as strategic partners by bringing JUHSD students and parents to participate in the 13th Annual OYE Latinx Youth Conference on Saturday, March 22, 2025 at Cañada College. Last year, more than 500 youth and parents participated, exploring ideas and engaging in meaningful conversations about culture, identity, community challenges, and future possibilities. The conference included interactive workshops, inspiring keynote speakers, resource and networking sessions.

On Saturday, February 8th, 25 dedicated members of Westmoor High School’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter competed at the Bay Section Conference, held at Homestead High School. Demonstrating outstanding skill, preparation, and professionalism, Westmoor students excelled in various competitive events, earning top placements in multiple categories. Their hard work and dedication paid off, with several students qualifying for the prestigious California FBLA State Conference in April. Congratulations to all participants for their achievements and for representing Westmoor with excellence!

Note: Highlighted competitors qualified for the State conference.

On February 8th, 70 high school juniors from Jefferson and Westmoor High School participated in the Future Grads Personal Narrative Writing event at Skyline College. Through engaging workshops and hands-on activities, students gained a deeper understanding of college essay prompts, equipping them with valuable skills for their college and scholarship applications. In addition to refining their writing, they had the opportunity to explore Skyline College’s vibrant campus, getting a firsthand look at its academic resources and student life. This experience not only strengthened their confidence in personal storytelling but also inspired them to envision their future in higher education.

March 1st, 12-4 pm All City Music and Art Festival

On Monday, February 3rd, the TN Counseling Department took a group of students to the College of San Mateo to participate in the CSM Block Party! This exciting event showcased a wide range of career opportunities and academic programs, giving students a firsthand look at the possibilities waiting for them at CSM. From hands-on career education pathways to dynamic student clubs and powerhouse athletics, TN students had the chance to connect with faculty, explore future careers, and experience the vibrant CSM community.

Oceana High School’s Culinary Pathway recently hosted a successful pop-up event, showcasing student-made Chili Crisp and Pickled Garlic. The event highlighted students’ creativity and culinary skills, drawing enthusiastic support from the school community. Their delicious, handcrafted flavors were a hit, demonstrating the program’s commitment to hands-on learning and innovation in the kitchen.

Thornton High School's Jayden Reate stands with Principal Dr. Dennie Marenco after being named the District's Student of the Month for February! Superintendent Presta, the JUHSD Board, Thornton staff, and Jayden's family celebrate his many accomplishments. Congratulations, Jayden!

Great news: college financial aid applications are now being accepted! Apply today to maximize your financial aid opportunities and see if you qualify for free money to attend a California college, university, or vocational school – regardless of your documentation status. This year, students have through March 2nd to submit their applications. Even if you think you don’t qualify, many college scholarships require you to apply for financial aid. Learn more at www.smcoe.org/financialaid.

The YAC's mission is to empower students like you to have a direct voice in shaping education policy and advocating for equity in California's schools. As a member, you’ll work alongside peers from all over the state to close achievement gaps, promote fairness, and make a real impact on education.

This is your chance to be part of something BIG. If you’re ready to contribute to meaningful change and make a difference in the lives of students across the state, apply today!

Don’t miss out on this incredible chance to amplify your voice and shape the future of education in California. Submit your application now! Deadline is Feb. 17, 2025.

Be the Change Youth Council (BTC) is a group of youth leaders from Oceana High School who work together to reduce youth substance use and raise awareness about mental wellness. BTC would like to invite students and families to join us for our 7th annual Youth Summit.

Date: Saturday March 15th

Location: Ingrid B. Lacy Middle School

Time: 11:00 am - 2:30 pm

It will be a great day including youth-led workshops, live streamed podcast, free photobooth and door prizes. Free lunch is included for all attendees!

If you have any questions feel free to contact Program Director Mary Bier: mbier@jeffersonunion.net

What is the Youth Voting Advisory Committee?

The mission of the committee is to advise and to help spread election and voting information and to increase pre-registration, registration and voting among young voters.

The Youth Voting Advisory Committee also provides recommendations identifying and prioritizing activities, programs, and policies to ensure young voters have equal access to the ballot and understand how to register to vote.

The committee was formed in collaboration with Congresswoman Anna Eshoo, Congressman Kevin Mullin and the Registration and Elections Division.

Committee members will be expected to attend virtual meetings online via Microsoft Teams every other month, except during election season when meetings will be held monthly. This is a volunteer committee. There is no stipend or reimbursement for participating on the committee.

Who can participate?

In order to be a Youth Voting Advisory Committee member, applicants must:

• Attend a high school in San Mateo County;
• Have an interest in or are familiar with contemporary issues affecting youth and engaging young people in community activities, politics, or government;
• Have and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above

What is the timeline for the Youth Voting Advisory Committee?

• Online application is available at www.smcacre.gov.
• Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, March 2, 2025.

The deadline to apply for the Daly City/Colma Chamber of Commerce 2025 scholarship is quickly approaching on March 1, 2025! Graduating students living in the towns of Daly City, Broadmoor, or Colma have a chance to receive $750 - $1,000+ in scholarship money. Application available here.

• Black Youth Movie Night February 14, at 7:00 p.m. Register here. Learn more.

• Youth Voting Advisory Committee Deadline 2/16/25
• SMCOE Golden Sneaker Contest Deadline 2/28
• Escribo en Español Deadline 2/28
• 2025 Ninth Circuit Civics Contest Deadline 3/7/25
• Pre-Med Scholarship Deadline 3/10/25
• 2025 San Mateo County Farm Bureau Scholarship Program Deadline 3/14

• Ruby Bridges Multimedia Contest Submissions due March 15 Learn more.

• Burlingame CEC Film Festival Deadline 3/23
• SMC Crop Report Art Contest Deadline 3/28/25
• OCAP Kids’ Art Contest Deadline 4/9
• Youth Unlimited (K-12 Students) Ongoing - SamTrans provides free bus travel for eligible students. Learn more.
• Take Space to Pause

• San Mateo County Health Coverage Enrollment Assistance

• Transition to Adulthood: Connections California | Transición a la Edad Adulta: Connections California

• ODE Parent Project Classes Begin March 4th Learn More (ENG) March 5th Spanish
• Silicon Valley Reads
• Preventing Underage Drinking

• Public Health Resources Learn more.

• San Mateo County Health Information

• SMC Mobile Clinic Schedule
• Health Coverage Enrollment Assistance for Low- to Mid-income Residents or San Mateo Medical Center Patients (in English and Spanish)

• San Mateo County Health Vaccine Guidance (English | Spanish).

• Mama's Unidas (Spanish Speaking) - DCYHC Mother's support Group. Learn More

• Mama's United (English Speaking) - DCYHC Mother's support Group. Learn More

• Connections California - Parents helping Parents. Learn More

• Oral Health Resources - San Mateo County oral health resources for children and families. Learn More

• Daly City/Colma Chamber of Commerce Events Calendar

• Valentine’s Boogie 2/15 at 2:30 pm

• Film Screening: KINTSUKUROI 2/22

• Bowling at SF Presidio (Young Adults 18 - 35) 2/23 at 12 pm
• Trampoline Party 3/2 at 6 pm
• Chinatown Rising Film Screening - March 8th Learn More
• Pacifica 4-H Family Movie Night - March 14th 6:00 pm Learn More
• Noe Music “Carnival of the Animals” 3/8 at 12 pm
• Noe Music “The Living Earth” 4/12 at 12 pm

• JUHSD February 11, 2025 Board agenda
• Watch the recorded meeting through the JUHSD YouTube Channel

February 11th Board Meeting Highlights

• Jayden Reate - Thornton High School February Student of the Month
• 2024-25 LCAP Mid Year Report
• Board votes on Delegate Assembly Ballot - Subregion 5-B (San Mateo County)
• Approval of job description updates

Additional Information and Upcoming Board meetings

The next regularly scheduled Board Meeting will take place on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. Public open session begins at 7:00 pm (unless otherwise noted) on the JUHSD YouTube channel and in person at the New District Office, 123 Edgemont Drive, Daly City.

• JUHSD Governance Calendar
  
• Board Agendas Online
  
• Meet Our Trustees