
AUSD CONNECTION
NEWS FROM ALHAMBRA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

Message from the Superintendent
Dear AUSD Community,
As we prepare for our upcoming spring break, I know we are all looking forward to taking some time to relax, rejuvenate, and be with family and friends. Whether you have travel plans or intend to stay local, I hope you find moments of joy and relaxation during the break.
Those who attend our Board of Education meetings have seen Student Board Member Justin Wang on the dais asking thoughtful questions and sharing student perspectives of District programs, initiatives, and proposals. Justin and members of our Student Advisory Council (SAC) are now familiar faces at community events and our Board meetings. We could not be any prouder of the hard work and dedication these accomplished young men and women have demonstrated, and we look forward to working with the next set of students who will take on these leadership roles.
Elections for the 2024-25 SAC will be coming soon, and I’d like to encourage our current eighth, ninth, tenth, and eleventh grade students to give serious consideration to running to represent their grade level and school, and to help ensure that student voices are part of AUSD’s decision making process. School administrators will be sharing information about the SAC election process and timelines soon, so make sure to keep your eyes and ears open for announcements about SAC if you are interested in making a difference.
Looking ahead, we have a variety of exciting events and activities planned for the remainder of the school year, including student performances, award recognitions, and community outreach programs. I encourage you to stay informed about these opportunities through our district website, online calendar, and social media platforms (@AlhambraUSD).
As a reminder, most of our staff will also be enjoying a well-deserved rest during the week of March 25th. Please expect delays to any voicemails or emails. Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding. I wish you all a wonderful and restful spring break and thank you, as always, for your ongoing partnership and support.
Warmest regards,
Denise R. Jaramillo, Ed.D.
Superintendent
In This Issue...
- OPENING FEATURED EVENT: Read Across America Celebrations Around the District
- March 12th Board Meeting Items
- Staff Report: Second Interim Financial Report for 2023-2024
- Adopted Board Resolutions
- Educational Services
- 2024-25 Dual Language Immersion Program Applications & Informational Video
- LCAP Parent Advisory Committee IN PERSON Meeting - REVISED START TIME
- Early College Program - Summer 2024 Classes
- Technology Updates
- Updated Educational Technology Resource Site
- Student Support Services
- NEW DATE - Family STEAM NIGHT
- Screenagers Under the Influence (Documentary & Discussion)
- PACES - Parent and Caregiver Empowerment Summit
- Community Schools News
- Temporary Change to Permit Application Process
- Facilities and Construction
- Facilities Updates
- Construction Updates
- SMALL SPOTLIGHTS (Little Bits of Good News & Information from Around the District)
- Food & Nutrition Services:
- Harvest of the Month: Cara Cara Oranges
- Read Across America - Green Eggs & Ham
- Cafeteria Menus
- Parent Resources: Community Offerings & News
- City of Alhambra - Sustainable Alhambra Virtual Workshop & Survey
- City of Monterey Park Public Works Community Engagement Meeting - Floral Drive Improvement
- Scholarship Opportunities
- CalKIDS
- Non-Profit Partner Organizations (AEF, ALA, AAA)
- News from AEF
- News from ALA
- News from AAA
- Human Resources
- Game Changers
- Employment Opportunities
- AUSD Calendar
- Upcoming Events and Important Dates
- Open Houses 2024
- Student Calendar 2024 -2025
- High School Spring Performances
- High School Athletics Calendars
- CLOSING FEATURED EVENT: Student Advisory Council - 2023-24 Highlights
- AUSD in the Media
- Publicity Requests
- AUSD is on YouTube
AUSD Website & Social Media - Stay Connected with AUSD!
"AUSD Connection" Archive
Throughout the newsletter, please CLICK ON IMAGES AND HEADLINES to access additional information, embedded links, and larger versions of the photographs/graphics.
Featured Event: Read Across America Celebrations Around the District
We love all the Read Across America events that were held at the various schools around the district. Here are a few highlights of the many celebrations that took place in early March to celebrate a books and encourage a love of reading.
Thank you to the many staff members, parents, and student leaders who worked tirelessly to make these amazing events happen.
Staff Report Presentation Slides
Board Resolutions
At Tuesday's Board of Education meeting, the Board adopted four resolutions. Please download each item to read the full resolutions.
2024-25 Dual Language Immersion Program
We are accepting applications for the 2024-25 TK-8th grade Spanish and Mandarin Dual Language Immersion programs.
This is your opportunity to give your child the gift of bilingualism and give them an advantage in the world.
Access detailed information on the AUSD website HERE and/or watch an informational video HERE.
LCAP Parent Advisory Committee Meeting In Person - REVISED START TIME OF 6:00PM
Please join us Monday, March 18th at 6:00pm for the next Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting IN-PERSON! This meeting will be an interactive opportunity for you to provide input and feedback on the 2024-2025 LCAP Plan. Click HERE or on the flyer for details.
Early College Program- Summer 2024 Classes
Alhambra USD, in partnership with East Los Angeles College, offers FREE College Credit Courses to AUSD high school students. Different options available: 1) Asynchronous, 2) Online Zoom, 3) In Person at San Gabriel High Schools. Click here to view the class schedule: https://tinyurl.com/ausd-cte-classes.
Sign up today!
Technology Updates
Educational Technology Resource Site
We are excited to share our updated Support Site for AUSD families. The site is filled with educational technology resources for all grade levels. You will also find information related to our 1:1 student device program. We believe that by empowering our students with the right technological resources and support, we are setting the foundation for a more engaging, effective, and inclusive learning environment.
NEW DATE - Family STEAM Night
To RSVP click HERE. Registration closes on Friday, April 12, 2024.
SCREENAGERS Under the Influence
Attention AUSD parents and caregivers!
We are excited to announce a FREE SCREENING of the documentary SCREENAGERS UNDER THE INFLUENCE. This film examines the impact of our digital age on teens’ decision-making in relation to substance use, including vaping, alcohol and other drugs. Our goal is to bring you important information about how kids are navigating digital spaces and finding access to drugs and alcohol. The film debunks myths and depicts strategies parents and schools can use to encourage healthy decision-making, support teen mental health, set limits, and create healthy home environments. The film also includes many ways young people are using their wisdom and strength to help each other and themselves through this complicated terrain around substance use. The film will be followed by a panel discussion with adolescent treatment providers and educators.
Date: Tuesday, March 19, 2024
Time: 5:30pm-7:30pm
Location: Alhambra High School Auditorium (101 S 2nd St. Alhambra, CA 91801)
Kids aged 6th grade and up are welcome to attend. No childcare will be provided.
The film will be shown in English, with translation services provided.
Please register at the following link: Screenagers RSVP
Questions & Concerns please email: TUPE@ausd.us and we will be in contact with you as soon as possible.
PACES: Parent and Caregiver Empowerment Summit
SAVE THE DATE! Please join the SSS division for this special day of workshops that aim to empower parents and caregivers as they support the overall well-being of our children.
Join us on Saturday, May 4th from 8:30am-12:00pm at San Gabriel High School (801 S. Ramona St., San Gabriel). For more information or to register, please click HERE.
Change to Permit Application Process
We are temporarily reverting back to paper applications for the permit process. Parents who are interested in applying for a permit for their child should click HERE to go to the Permits page of the AUSD website to download a fillable PDF application and/or to get more information. Once the application is complete, parents will need to email it (along with the required documentation) to transferpermit@ausd.us. Thank you for your patience as we change over to a new online permit system.
Facilities Updates
Alhambra High School
The shot put area has been restored for the athletic students at Alhambra High School.
Before
After
Construction Updates
Brightwood School
Building "F"
Roofing is substantially complete allowing for finishes to kick off.
Electrical and low voltage infrastructure has been substantially completed.
Finishes have started and making the project feel that the end is in sight!
Alhambra High School
Building "A"
Framing the hard lid ceilings continues.
Insulation and drywall scope of work has hit the ground running!
LITTLE BITS OF GOOD NEWS & INFORMATION FROM AROUND THE DISTRICT
(Visit our social media platforms to see additional photos of many of these events/activities.)
The Rotary Club of Alhambra has extended its support of AUSD educators by awarding 29 teacher mini-grants (amounting to
a total of $6,000). This is the 33rd year of the Rotary Club’s partnership with AUSD schools and brings their total donation to $244,330 in funding for teacher mini-grants. Dr. David Snyder (Rotary Teacher Mini-Grant chairperson) and other members of the Rotary Club were on hand at the February 27th Board meeting to present mini-grant checks directly to the teacher recipients in attendance. For complete list of recipients click HERE.
Baldwin School participated in Agricultural Education Day at the Old Grove Farm in Redlands during a special field trip on February 15th. The students visited 100-year-old orange groves, compost windrows and vegetable fields, while learning about how farmers work with nature.
On Friday, March 1st, the Los Angeles County of Education hosted an amazing Women’s Leadership and Empowerment Conference ("Leading the Way in Education"). It was a powerful day of conversation, leadership, and empowerment. AUSD’s own superintendent, Dr. Denise Jaramillo, was one of the five accomplished LA County District Superintendents who shared their experiences and words of wisdom with the attendees. AUSD had a great turnout of female leaders who participated in the conference. It was the perfect way to celebrate International Women’s Day and Women's History Month.
Congratulations to Mrs. Debbie Stone, principal of San Gabriel High School. Mrs. Stone was announced at the last principals meeting as Alhambra Unified School District’s latest recipient of the “Excellence in Leadership" award, which is given to an AUSD principal who has demonstrated hard work, dedication and leadership with the students, families and staff members of SGHS.
Join Mark Keppel High School and Mark Keppel Alliance for a day of fun family-friendly activities, entertainment, and running at the 2024 FEAR THE SPEAR 5k on Saturday, April 6th. All proceeds raised will benefit MKHS educational programs, sports and clubs. For more information or to register, scan the QR code or visit: https://fearthespear5k.weebly.com/.
Attention all Monterey Highlands Elementary alumni: Monterey Highlands Elementary PTA is excited to announce their Senior Scholarship program for the graduation class of 2024. They will be awarding three $500 scholarships. To be eligible, you must:
- Be a graduate of Monterey Highlands Elementary.
- Be a current PTA member (either the student or the parent/guardian).
- Have received an acceptance letter from a post-secondary institution or training program for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Submit your application along with any required documentation by scanning the QR code or visiting http://tinyurl.com/4jwnezz6. The deadline is Wednesday, April 17, 2024 at 11:59pm.
The community is invited to support Brightwood School as they present their enchanting production of Into the Woods Jr. (music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim). Mark your calendars for April 25th & 26th at 6:00pm to witness the magic unfold on stage. This performance promises to be a treat for all ages. Tickets are available at the door for just $2, so don't miss out on this opportunity to experience the talent and creativity of Brightwood's young performers.
Harvest of the Month: Cara Cara Oranges
Alhambra USD teachers can sign up for our Farm to School Program, "Harvest of the Month" (HOTM). Our Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) division is excited to bring locally grown produce to the classroom for teachers to integrate a little "nutrition", "ag", and "CA grown" with their students. Each month will feature a different fruit or vegetable. February's HOTM is CARA CARA ORANGES.
Green Eggs & Ham for Breakfast
Our Food & Nutrition Services (FNS) department celebrated Read Across America on Friday, March 1st with a delicious breakfast of GREEN EGGS & HAM at our elementary schools.
Here are a few photos that were taken at Repetto School. It definitely looks like the students enjoyed this fun and tasty treat!
City of Alhambra - Sustainable Alhambra Virtual Workshop & Survey
The City of Alhambra is holding a virtual workshop for SUSTAINABLE ALHAMBRA, the City’s Comprehensive Sustainability Plan. Take the Community Questionnaire to share your opinions on sustainability, tell Alhambra what matters most to you, and describe how you envision a Sustainable Alhambra. Respond to the short 7-question survey and you be entered in an opportunity drawing for one of four $25 Visa gift cards at: www.surveymonkey.com/r/MS7LGXT
You are also invited to attend the Sustainable Alhambra Virtual Workshop to learn about the sustainability plan and share ideas, concerns, and feedback on Tuesday, March 19th at 6:00pm-7:00pm. Go to Zoom Link: ow.ly/J6oh50QJI78 to attend.
For more information on Sustainable Alhambra, visit: www.cityofalhambra.org/sustainability
City of Monterey Park Public Works Community Engagement Meeting - Floral Drive Improvement
The City of Monterey Park is working on a safety improvement project along Floral Drive from College View to Monterey Pass Road. They would like to hear from you!
Please join them on: Monday, March 18, 2024 at 6:30pm at Brightwood Elementary School (1701 Brightwood St., Monterey Park). For any questions, please contact (626)307-1320
Have you heard about CalKIDS?
CalKIDS also provides “seed” money for ALL children (regardless of family income level) born in California after July 1, 2022.
The state automatically provides a $25 initial deposit. Parents who register through CalKIDS.org to view their child’s account will receive an additional $25. Parents can also visit ScholarShare529.com and open a college savings account for their children. If parents link it to their CalKIDS account, they will receive an additional $50 contribution. This means EVERY child born in California July 1, 2022 or later can receive up to $100 of FREE money for college.
Low-income families whose children were in grades 1-12 at a California public school as of October 6, 2021 already have CalKIDS accounts in each child’s name with an initial deposit of $500. Foster youth receive an additional $500, and those identified as homeless receive another $500 (potentially $1,500 total for children who are most in need). New students will continue to be identified as eligible each fall through the public school system.
Non-Profit Partner Organizations
Alhambra Educational Foundation (AEF)
Alhambra Latino Association (ALA)
Asian American Association (AAA)
News from AEF
Adopt-A-Camper Program - PLEASE DONATE!
Alhambra Unified School District is partnering with AEF to launch the Adopt-A-Camper program. Every AUSD sixth grader has been given the opportunity to go to science camp this spring. PLEASE help AUSD/AEF fund this new annual tradition by making a donation through AEF.
Use this LINK to donate. Thank you in advance for your generosity. More information is available from Superintendent Dr. Jaramillo's letter that was sent home on February 7th (linked below).
AEF Summer Program
News from ALA
ALA Scholarship
The Alhambra Latino Association (ALA) 2024 Scholarship Applications is due TODAY, March 15, 2024!
Click HERE to apply.
Save the Date!
Please join the Alhambra Latino Association at their Scholarship Awards Dinner & Dance. This year ALA will be honoring Assistant Superintendent Janet Lees and AUSD High School scholarship recipients. The dinner & dance will be held on Friday, May 3, 2024 at 5:30pm at Almansor Court in Alhambra. More information will be provided in future newsletters.
News from AAA
Enjoy these highlights from the 2024 Asian America Association's Lunar New Year Banquet. Proceeds from this annual event support student scholarships for Alhambra USD seniors and eighth graders.
Thank you to San Gabriel High School senior CARLA HAU (IG: @carlahauphoto) for filming and editing this impressive video.
March Game Changers
Congratulations to our March 2024 Game Changers: Kimberly Ng, Certificated Game Changer from Brightwood School and Erin Halla, Classified Game Changer from Moor Field and LIFT Schools. Nominations for the next AUSD Game Changers are open. Nominate a deserving certificated or classified to be a Game Changer HERE.
AUSD Employment Opportunities
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Upcoming Events & Important Dates
- March 15: MKHS Spring Musical - MEAN GIRLS 7:00pm (Flyer, Tickets)
- March 16: MKHS Spring Musical - MEAN GIRLS 2:00pm (Flyer, Tickets)
- March 17: AUSD Booth at Alhambra Farmers Market 9:00am-11:00am
- March 18: Parent Advisory Committee 6:00pm-7:30pm (Flyer)
- March 25-29: SPRING BREAK (No School)
- April 1: SBAC Testing Window Starts (Elementary & Secondary Schools)
- April 2: Board of Education Meeting (Agendas & Minutes)
- April 5: "AUSD Connection" Newsletter Emailed to Parents, Students, and Staff Members
- April 7: AUSD Booth at Alhambra Farmers Market 9:00am-11:00am
- April 12: SGHS Spring Musical - IN THE HEIGHTS 6:30pm (Flyer, Tickets)
- April 13: SGHS Spring Musical - IN THE HEIGHTS Barrio Block Party 12:00pm-2:00pm (Barrio Block Party, Flyer, Tickets)
- April 13: SGHS Spring Musical - IN THE HEIGHTS 2:00pm (Barrio Block Party, Flyer, Tickets)
- April 14: AUSD Booth at Alhambra Farmers Market 9:00am-11:00am
- April 17: SGHS Spring Musical - IN THE HEIGHTS 4:00pm (Flyer, Tickets)
- April 19: AHS Spring Musical - Disney's THE LITTLE MERMAID 6:30pm (Flyer, Tickets)
- April 19: SGHS Spring Musical - IN THE HEIGHTS 6:30pm (Flyer, Tickets)
- April 20: SGHS Spring Musical - IN THE HEIGHTS 2:00pm (Flyer, Tickets)
- April 20: AHS Spring Musical - Disney's THE LITTLE MERMAID 6:30pm (Flyer, Tickets)
- April 21: AUSD Booth at Alhambra Farmers Market 9:00am-11:00am
- April 23: Board of Education Meeting (Agendas & Minutes)
- April 24: NEW DATE - SSS Family STEAM Night 3rd-5th grades 5:00pm-7:00pm (Flyer, RSVP)
- April 26: AHS Spring Musical - Disney's THE LITTLE MERMAID 6:30pm (Flyer, Tickets)
- April 26: "AUSD Connection" Newsletter Emailed to Parents, Students, and Staff Members
Open Houses 2024
AUSD Open Houses take place February through May.
Please download a copy a list of all AUSD Open House dates/times. (🔸 NOTE: Park School has changed their Open House date from April 3rd to May 15th.)
More information will be provided by your child's teacher/school.
Student Calendar 2024 - 2025
Please mark your calendar with these important dates for the upcoming 2024 -2025 school year.
High School Spring Performances
Click on images for more information
AHS Theater Boosters and Thespians present: Disney's THE LITTLE MERMAID. Performance dates and times are Fridays, April 19th & 27th at 6:30pm and Saturdays, April 20th, & 27th at 6:30pm and Saturday, April 27th at 11:00am.
Ticket prices are $20 adults and $15 students/child. To purchase tickets online, please go to: alhambratheaterboosters.ludus.com.
MKHS Theatre Company had a fabulous opening weekend of their spring musical: MEAN GIRLS. There is still one more weekend of shows. Remaining performances will be on Friday, March 15th (tonight) at 7:00pm and Saturday, March 16th at 2:00pm. See below for a preview of the show.
Tickets are $15 online and presale from the Student Bank or $20 at the door. To purchase tickets online, please go to: mkhs.myschoolcentral.com.
SGHS Theater presents it's spring musical: IN THE HEIGHTS. Performance dates and times are Fridays April 12th & April 19th at 6:30pm, Saturdays April 13th & April 20th at 2:00pm, and Wednesday April 17th at 4:00pm.
* Join them on Saturday, April 13th for their Barrio Block Party at 12:00pm and a PAY-WHAT-YOU-CAN Performance at 2:00pm.
Ticket prices are $15 general and $10 students. To purchase tickets online, please go to: sghsdrama.ludus.com.
High School Athletics Calendars
Featured Event: Student Advisory Council - 2023-24 Highlights
SAC Recruitment & Highlights Video
Interested in becoming part of the 2024-25 Student Advisory Council (SAC)? Check with your school for their election process and timeline.
AUSD in the Media
Read about AUSD in these Local Community Papers
📰 NEW to the AUSD website (www.ausd.us): Press Coverage
Alhambra Unified School District is often featured in local media (print and television news). Click below to access some of our favorite stories, featuring AUSD students, staff members, schools and programs!
Do you have something newsworthy to share? Click on the Publicity Request button so we can spread the word!
AUSD is on YouTube
Mark Keppel High School's Spring Musical: MEAN GIRLS
About Alhambra Unified School District
CONTACT US:
Website: www.ausd.us
Address: 1515 West Mission Road, Alhambra, CA, USA
Email: AlhambraUSD@ausd.us
Phone: (626) 943-3000
Facebook: @AlhambraUSD
Instagram: @AlhambraUSD
Twitter/X: @AlhambraUSD
YouTube: @AlhambraUSD