Dear Colleagues,

I’m pleased to share a highlight from this week’s Board Meeting that truly reflects the heart and voice of our schools—our students. The Student Advisory Council delivered a thoughtful and impactful presentation on three important topics: Outreach and Opportunity, Wellness and Student Body Health, and New Student Integration (English Language Learners (ELLs) and newly enrolled students).

The Student Advisory Council is composed of dedicated student representatives from each of our five schools. These students meet regularly to discuss pressing issues, collaborate on ideas, and bring forward the perspectives of their peers. They serve as student trustees during board meetings, providing the Superintendent, executive cabinet, and School Board with valuable insights into student safety, wellness, and curriculum—directly from the student experience.

We will celebrate their commitment, their voices, and their vision for a more inclusive and supportive school community at 7pm on May 12th at the District Office. Their work not only informs our decisions—it inspires them. Thank you to each of our student trustees for their leadership, courage, and dedication to creating a space where all students can thrive.

Westmoor High School

Chloe Chou, Lauren Tam, Charlotte Tsang, Ryan Chou, and Adam Myat

Jefferson High School

Eden Magbilang, Evelyn Carias, Nathalia Alvarado, Fernanda Moreira, and Angela Chin

Terra Nova High School

Rafferty Perez, Summer Simpson, Alaia Aulachong, Hannah Rosoff, and Wyatt Ryan

Oceana High School

Violet Schueller, Dominic Presta, Eva Imperato, Avani Rajan, and Katlynn Nguyen

Thornton High School

Daniel Gervacio and Sofia Uribe

Warm regards,

Toni Presta

Superintendent

@superintendent_tonipresta

Congratulations to WHS Principal Victor Zou for being named the ASCA Region 5 Co-Administrator of the Year!

His leadership, dedication, and unwavering support for students and staff continue to inspire the Westmoor school community every day. This recognition is well-deserved, and we couldn't be prouder to have him leading Westmoor High School.

A 1937 Jefferson High School time capsule has been uncovered and you’re invited to witness its reveal!

Join us for a Farewell to the JHS Gym
When: May 3rd
Time: Open House from 10AM–1PM
Where: Jefferson High School Gym
RSVP: https://forms.gle/NpFfZqebCT4DqRoo9

Be one of the first to see what’s inside this 87-year-old treasure. Let’s honor the past and celebrate the memories before the gym says goodbye. Special thanks to the incredible JHS Maintenance crew—Steve Hawkes, Giuseppe Sibillo, and Miguel Cardenas—for your hard work uncovering this piece of history.

SMCC Arts Education Conference, a county-wide arts institute for San Mateo County Educators, Teaching Artists, and Staff which will be held at the San Mateo County Office of Education on October 1, 2025.

We are looking for dynamic teaching artists and arts education partners to present a workshop in your arts discipline. A small stipend for presenters will be available.

Applications are due June 1, 2025. Selected presenters will be notified by June 16, 2025.

Please reach out to Allison Gamlen, Arts Coordinator at SMCOE with any questions > agamlen@smcoe.org.