Santa Clara Unified School District

While the holiday season is typically seen as a time of joy and celebration, it can also be filled with complex emotions. Remember to prioritize taking care of yourself, check in with loved ones regularly, and make space for messy feelings like grief that may arise — know you are never alone. We wish you a peaceful and restorative November break filled with gratitude, and we look forward to seeing you back at school on December 2.

Did you know Mission Early College High School (MECHS) students can earn college credits while working towards their high school diploma? ?? Applications for the 2025-2026 school year are open now through January 18, 2025. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity! Learn more on our website at https://trst.in/juRCn0.

Tomorrow (November 22) is Substitute Educators Day! ?? Let's thank the incredible educators who step in and make a difference every day. Their essential help ensures that our students continue to learn and grow, no matter what. We are so grateful to all our SCUSD substitute educators!

Want to help shape the future of our schools? SCUSD is accepting applications for the Independent Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee! Gain behind-the-scenes insight into facilities planning, funding, and construction. Learn more about the committee roles and responsibilities on our website at https://trst.in/uJDIrS.

Check out this week's District Update for a message from Superintendent Dr. Waddell, details about a mental health webinar, a heartwarming story of kindness, and more. View our newsletter for the latest updates at https://trst.in/C4UoNc.

Join us for a 60-minute webinar on November 21, 5:30–6:30 p.m., hosted by our partners at To Be Honest (TBH). This session teaches participants practical strategies to support students' mental health, recognize warning signs, and create a safe environment for open conversations. All are welcome! Learn more on our website and save a seat at https://trst.in/YMMPYF.

Last week, our community experienced a tragic loss. Our district shares the overwhelming sadness and regret that many in our community have expressed. Please take a moment to listen to this important message from Superintendent Dr. Waddell. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Jose Zamora as our community mourns together. If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health or bullying, please reach out to your school office right away — we are here to help. For someone in more urgent need, call 988, the National Suicide Hotline for 24/7 support.

?? Celebrate National STEM Day with a double act of kindness! ???? Starting November 13, every donation toward SCUSD's STEM projects will be doubled — thanks to a generous matching gift from the TV show "Young Sheldon". Whether it’s calculators for math, new software for design, or hands-on science kits, your kindness can make a huge impact in our classrooms. Let’s bring more STEM learning opportunities to our students and make a difference that reaches even further. To contribute to our district's STEM projects, visit?https://trst.in/SlvwAs. #DoubleTheKindness #STEMeducation #SCUSDkind

This Veterans Day, we honor our heroes, past and present. Thank you to those who have served this country, showing great sacrifice and bravery. In honor of this day, all SCUSD schools and District offices are closed on November 11, 2024. ??????

It's National STEAM Day! STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. It is celebrated annually on November 8 to encourage students to explore and develop an interest in pursuing STEAM careers.