EUSD continues its commitment to ensure that we are the district of choice for the children of Escondido. As defined in the EUSD Framework for the Future, we have embraced elements of a learner-centered model that promises to be filled with innovative programming for our students. Professionals from all corners of the district continue to work collaboratively to lay the foundation for this framework, which sets up EUSD students to actualize their unlimited potential. In EUSD, we believe learning should be personalized, authentic, competency-based, and inclusive and equitable. Take a look at this video to learn more about EUSD’s Framework for the Future.
All of our students engage in authentic learning experiences. EUSD fifth graders are stepping into nature’s classroom with Nature Collective’s Ecosystem in Action program at the San Elijo Lagoon! Nature Collective is one of EUSD's community partners, providing these unforgettable field trip (also called fieldwork) experiences for all 5th-grade students. During this field trip, students become scientists, exploring ecosystems native to our watershed through hands-on investigations. During the trip, they are tasked to observe interactions between living (biotic) and nonliving (abiotic) elements that make up the lagoon ecosystem. They also investigate the role of insects in tree decomposition and consider how even small things can have great impacts on ecosystems. This immersive field trip deepens students' appreciation for the natural world and inspires the next generation to take care of their native ecosystems. Take a look at Glen View's 5th graders:
Here are this week’s updates and reminders:
6th Grade Camp at Camp Cuyamaca: Exciting News! We’ve opened up more spots for 6th Grade Camp at Camp Cuyamaca! This overnight camp experience takes place during Spring Break from April 14-18. If you haven’t applied yet, don’t worry—there’s still time! Complete the interest form now and secure your chance to join this unforgettable adventure!
Preschool Enrollment: Coming soon! Applications for the 2025-26 school year for EUSD State Preschool will be available online beginning May 1. Applications will be accepted for children who will be age 3 by August 19, 2025. If your child will turn 3 years old during the 2025-2026 school year, you can apply on or after their birthday. Preschool classes are available at seven EUSD elementary schools: Central, Juniper, Glen View, Lincoln, Oak Hill, Pioneer, and Rose. EUSD Preschool is offered through the California State Preschool Program and licensed through the California Department of Social Services. Please visit the EUSD State Preschool website for more information.
February festivities: There is much to recognize in February, such as Lunar New Year, Black History Month, and Presidents Day. We are proud to share highlights from classrooms around the district. The origin of Black History Month dates back to 1915, and it gained official recognition in 1976 thanks to President Gerald Ford, who called upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Around EUSD, lessons on Black American history are incorporated in countless ways and highlighted during this time. At Felicita, school library technician, Ms. Luft shared an inspiring Black History Month project she is doing in collaboration with a fifth-grade class, where students research African-American figures and place themselves on a timeline by their historical figure’s birthdate.
Work with EUSD: Save the date for our next hiring fair! On Tuesday, February 18, Human Resources team members will be on hand to guide individuals seeking classified positions through the application process. The hiring event is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the district office, 2310 Aldergrove Avenue. Walk-ins are welcome for numerous essential full and part-time positions across the district. View this flyer for details on classified positions (PDF); employees who work more than five hours a day are eligible for enrollment in EUSD benefits and retirement programs.
Early Education Enrollment: New Student Enrollment opened on January 7, 2025, for Transitional Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and Special Education Preschool. EUSD offers a full-day Transitional Kindergarten program to bridge the path between preschool and Kindergarten. For the 2025-2026 school year, children are eligible for TK if their date of birth is between September 2, 2020, and September 1, 2021. Students applying for Kindergarten must be age 5 on or before September 1, 2025. Students in EUSD TK and Kindergarten programs are eligible to participate in their school’s optional Expanded Learning program. The Expanded Learning program provides before- and after-school student care, from 6:30 a.m. to the morning bell and from the dismissal bell to 6:00 p.m. To find your neighborhood school of residence, use our online school locator tool. For questions regarding Special Education Preschool or about your student’s Special Education needs for next school year, contact the team at spedsupport@eusd.org.
Library programs: The library is hosting a free Lunar New Year celebration from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 22, in the library’s Turrentine Room. The event will include a visit from Chazz and Queen T, who will provide drums and dancing. View this flyer from the Escondido Public Library (PDF) for more information on the celebration.
Breakfast and Lunch Menus: All EUSD students have access to no-cost breakfast and lunch. Families can view our new online menus. Select your school and menu to see what is being served every day.
And Remember, Every Day Counts in EUSD!
– Luis Rankins-Ibarra, Superintendent of Schools