Dear Berryessa community, 

Thank you for your dedication to creating a positive and supportive learning environment for our students. Together, we’re making a real impact, and we would like to highlight some key initiatives that are helping our students thrive.

• We’re focusing on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to create a school climate where our students feel valued and motivated to succeed. By promoting positive behaviors, we’re building a strong foundation for their future.
• Through Red Ribbon Week and other efforts, we’re empowering students to make safe choices and educating them about the dangers of drugs and alcohol.
•  We know that regular attendance is crucial to academic success. Even a few absences can impact learning, so let’s work together to ensure our students are in class, ready to learn, every day.

Finally, we’re proud to announce that our district was recognized as the 2024 District Partner of the Year by the Silicon Valley Education Foundation, a testament to our shared commitment to educational excellence.



Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Together, we’re creating a brighter future for our students.

With BUSD pride,  



Dr. Roxane Fuentes 

Superintendent 

Watch this video about the start of the school year at BUSD!

At BUSD, we're dedicated to creating a positive and supportive environment for every student through Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). This approach is already making a difference, with ten of our schools in their first year of PBIS implementation and three more set to join during the 2025-26 school year. We’re thrilled to report that this initiative has already led to a noticeable reduction in discipline issues across the district!

PBIS focuses on teaching and reinforcing positive behaviors, helping students feel more connected, valued, and supported at school. It’s all about creating an inclusive atmosphere where good behavior is recognized and encouraged, making our schools safer and more welcoming for everyone.

Here's how PBIS is making an impact at some of our schools:

• Tiered Supports: Our schools use tiered interventions to meet every student's needs, from universal support for all to targeted help for those who need a little extra guidance.
• Behavioral Incentives: At Morrill Middle School, "Tiger Tickets" reward positive behavior. Students earn these tickets and can redeem them for fun prizes, creating a buzz of excitement and motivation.
• Restorative Practices: Some schools blend PBIS with restorative practices, teaching students conflict resolution skills that help build stronger, more empathetic peer relationships.

We’re excited to continue expanding PBIS in our district, knowing that it’s creating a lasting, positive impact on our students' well-being, academic performance, and sense of belonging. Thank you for supporting this important effort to make every BUSD school a place where all students can thrive!

It is exciting to share that our District has been recognized with the 2024 District Partner of the Year Award, by the Silicon Valley Education Foundation. Their annual DreamMakers SV[e]F event was an inspiring celebration of the best in education - teachers, students, college mentors and BUSD. We look forward to continuing our work together to enhance educational opportunities for all.

Our BUSD School Consolidation Committee continues to meet to review the data to assist in developing their school consolidation proposal. Additional meetings have been determined as follows:

Committee Meetings at the Santa Clara County Office of Education, 1290 Ridder Park Dr, San Jose, CA 95131

• Oct. 17, 2024 at 6 pm.
• Oct. 24, 2024 at 6 pm. (if needed)

Board Study Session & Public Hearing

• November 12, 2024 at 6 pm.

From October 23rd to 31st, we will celebrate Red Ribbon Week, the nation’s largest substance prevention program. This annual event educates students, parents, and communities about the dangers of drugs and alcohol, reaching millions of young people every year. It empowers students to resist peer pressure, make positive choices, and build a strong foundation for their future.

Our district is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive learning environment for all. We encourage everyone to engage with students, peers, teachers, and the community to learn more about substance prevention. For resources and ways to get involved, visit the official Red Ribbon Week website at redribbon.org. Together, let's commit to a healthier, drug-free future! 

Regular attendance is key to student success, and BUSD is committed to helping every student thrive. Unfortunately, our average daily attendance has dropped from 97.2% in 2019 to 94.4% in 2023. This decline not only impacts our resources but also has serious effects on students' learning. Even in early grades, missing just two days a month can cause learning setbacks, with gaps in reading and math by third grade.

To tackle this challenge, BUSD is taking a restorative approach. We’re strengthening connections with families through our community liaisons, using Positive Behavior Interventions and Support (PBIS), and rewarding good attendance. We’re also partnering with the District Attorney’s office to offer mediation, workshops, and home visits to address issues leading to absenteeism.

Parents play a vital role in building strong attendance habits. Simple steps like setting regular routines, preparing the night before, and scheduling appointments outside of school hours can make a big difference. If your child struggles with school anxiety, reach out to teachers or principals for support. Together, we can ensure every day counts in your child’s education.

We are looking forward to participating in the District 4 Pumpkin Giveaway, on Monday, October 21, 5-7PM, 1376 Piedmont Rd. This is an annual tradition, engaging and fun! The limit is one pumpkin per child, while supplies last. See you there!

Our next Board of Trustees meeting is on October 16, 2024.

To enhance accessibility, board meetings are live-streamed! You can stay up-to-date by watching from the convenience of your home. Please remember that in-person attendance is required if you wish to participate or make comments during a meeting.

For more information about the BUSD Board Meetings, please click here.