Board of Education Recognizes 2026 California Distinguished Schools

At its meeting on Tuesday, GGUSD's Board of Education proudly celebrated nine secondary schools for earning 2026 California Distinguished School honors—the highest number in district history, with 53% of eligible campuses receiving the award. Notably, GGUSD earned more Distinguished School recognitions than any district in California except LAUSD and San Diego USD.

Dr. Stephanie Heflin, Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools, credited this achievement to the dedication of educators and staff, the support of engaged families, and strong research-based instructional practices. School teams from Bell, Irvine, McGarvin, Ralston, Bolsa Grande, Los Amigos, La Quinta, Pacifica, and Santiago were recognized by the Board for this outstanding accomplishment.

Board of Education Recognizes New Student Senate

The Board of Education proudly recognized the district's inaugural Student Senate, a new group amplifying student voice and advising district leadership. Representing all eight high schools and feeder schools, these students serve on the Superintendent’s Advisory Group and act as liaisons to the Board Representative Council.

Superintendent Gabriela Mafi thanked the group for their valuable feedback on topics like student safety, grading, and interventions. The Student Senate has already made an impact through schoolwide surveys and campus engagement. Click here to watch the video to hear from our student representatives!

Murdy Elementary Hosts Annual Gratitude Project

GGUSD proudly celebrates Murdy Elementary School’s Gratitude Project and its powerful culminating event, where students and special guests came together to reflect on months of meaningful learning and shared experiences.

As part of the project, students conducted interviews with veterans and others who have faced hardship—gaining a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made to create better opportunities for future generations. Students shared these impactful stories and expressed heartfelt gratitude for the lessons learned.

In a touching tribute, students also created artwork inspired by guest speakers’ experiences and presented these pieces as gifts. This year’s speakers included Republic of Vietnam Veterans Dien Van Ho and Hung Quoc Le, U.S. Navy SEAL and Vietnam Veteran Andy McTigue, U.S. Marine Corps and Vietnam Veteran Jim Webber and U.S. Army and Vietnam Veteran Kevin Davenport.

Led by dedicated Murdy teachers Valerie Del Carlo, Mark Keller, Candice Evans, and Stacy Hoang, the Gratitude Project is a shining example of GGUSD’s Goal 2: Personal Skills in action—fostering empathy, appreciation, and connection.

GGUSD Community Advisory Committee for Special Education Hosts Student Recognition Awards

GGUSD’s Community Advisory Committee for Special Education recently hosted a beautiful Student Recognition Awards event at the Garden Grove Community Center honoring the incredible academic and personal growth of our Special Education students.

This special celebration reflects Goals 1 and 2 in action, while also highlighting GGUSD’s outstanding Special Education program and the caring staff who consistently support student success (Goal 3).

A big thank you to our dedicated CAC parent volunteers who partnered with our Special Education Department to make this meaningful event possible!

Rosita Elementary Hosts Cultural Festival

Rosita Elementary School’s Cultural Festival last Friday was made even more meaningful as the school community welcomed the Palomino family as honored guests.

As two of the original plaintiffs in the landmark Mendez v. Westminster case, Frank and Irene Palomino helped challenge school segregation in California—paving the way for Brown v. Board of Education and transforming public education. As two of the original plaintiffs in the landmark Mendez v. Westminster case, Frank and Irene Palomino helped challenge school segregation in California—paving the way for Brown v. Board of Education and transforming public education across the nation.

It was especially meaningful to welcome their grandchildren to Rosita’s Cultural Festival, continuing a deep family connection to the school. Three generations of the Palomino family have lived just across the street, attending Rosita and growing alongside this vibrant community.

With the Board of Education set to consider a proposal to rename Rosita Elementary in their honor, this evening offered a special opportunity for the family to connect with the school community that has long been part of their story.

We are grateful to the Palomino family for their courage, their legacy, and for joining us for such a memorable night.

GGUSD's Career Exploration Program is a Success

The spring session of GGUSD’s new after-school career exploration program just wrapped—and it was a big success!

More than 110 students from across the district participated in the after-school program from January-April, gaining hands-on experience in high-interest pathways like automotive, culinary arts, and skilled trades at Rancho Alamitos High School. Students in grades 8–12 engaged in project-based learning led by industry experts, building real-world skills in three of GGUSD's most popular Career Pathways.

The program gave students a unique chance to explore future careers, try pathways not available at their home school, and connect with peers who share their interests—all with transportation provided to ensure access for everyone.

GGUSD continues to expand opportunities in Career & Technical Education, now offering 15 pathways across high schools and STEM courses at every intermediate school.

GGUSD Staff Are Gearing Up for Our 60th Anniversary Celebration

GGUSD staff are gearing up for an unforgettable 60th Anniversary Celebration! Join the GGUSD community on Friday, May 15 from 4–8 p.m. at Bolsa Grande High School Stadium as we celebrate six decades of excellence, connection and pride.

From exciting activities to time spent reconnecting with friends and family, it’s a night you won’t want to miss! Homegrown attendees are encouraged to show their GGUSD pride by wearing their school gear or attire.

Mark your calendars and come celebrate 60 years of GGUSD!

Stanley Elementary Performs The Lion King

Stanley Elementary School’s recent performance of The Lion King was a smashing success. Students brought the beloved story to life with incredible talent, creativity, and heart. From vibrant costumes to powerful musical numbers, the production showcased the dedication and hard work of both students and staff.

The stage came alive as performers captivated the audience with their singing and storytelling—highlighting the confidence and collaboration that make the arts so impactful for student growth.

Bravo to Stanley Elementary for an unforgettable show and for fostering a love of the arts in our students!

Violette Elementary Hosts Scholar Awards Assembly

Violette Elementary School's Scholar Awards Assembly brought together scholars, families, and staff to recognize the hard work, perseverance, and growth demonstrated on state assessments. These accomplishments reflect not only student dedication, but also the unwavering support and encouragement provided by teachers and families.

GGUSD commends all scholars for their commitment to excellence—whether achieving growth or reaching proficient and advanced levels. As state testing approaches, this celebration served as a meaningful moment to reflect on a year of learning and look ahead with excitement for continued success.

Walton Intermediate Welcomes Families to Campus for Open House

Walton Intermediate School recently welcomed families to campus for a fantastic Open House event! Classrooms were filled with excitement as students proudly showcased their hard work and achievements, while teachers connected with families to share the meaningful learning happening every day.

From engaging projects to interactive activities, the evening highlighted the dedication of Walton’s students and staff and the strong partnership between school and home. GGUSD is proud of the vibrant learning community at Walton Intermediate and the continued commitment to student success!

Monroe Elementary Language Academy Hosts International Festival

Monroe Elementary Language Academy recently brought the community together for a vibrant International Festival celebrating cultures from around the world. Families, students, and staff enjoyed an evening filled with colorful cultural booths, lively dance performances—including baile folklórico—and a variety of delicious food vendors. A special thank you to Board of Education President Bob Harden and Trustee Walter Muneton for joining Monroe to celebrate

The event highlighted the rich diversity of the Monroe community and provided students with a meaningful opportunity to share and learn about different cultures. GGUSD is proud to support events that celebrate inclusion, connection, and global learning!

GGUSD Highlights Homegrown Staff in Honor of Our

60th Anniversary Year

As part of GGUSD’s “Then vs. Now” campaign celebrating homegrown staff in honor of our 60th Anniversary, we are proud to highlight Rita Hanna Yost. In 2006, during her senior year at Rancho Alamitos High School, Rita captured a special moment with her sister Rania, then a member of the women's basketball team.

Today, Rita is in her 13th year teaching at Morningside Elementary, where she continues to inspire and support her students every day. Her journey from GGUSD student to dedicated educator reflects the strong sense of community and pride that lives on across generations.

Way to go, Mustangs—and thank you, Rita, for being such an important part of GGUSD’s legacy!

GGUSD Welcomes New Employees to the District

It was great to see some the newest GGUSD employees at our Office of Personnel Service's second new employee orientation of the year. This event is a great way for new employees to be introduced to our assistant superintendents, see an overview of the each district department, as well learn what the Garden Grove Way is all about!

Employees in attendance represented positions that serve in different areas including office staff, classroom support, food service workers, and IT support have joined a team of over 5,600 employees who are dedicated to serving and providing our students with the quality education they deserve!

GGUSD Recognizes April 22 as

Administrative Professionals Appreciation Day

Garden Grove Unified School District honors the incredible administrative professionals who are the heartbeat of its schools and departments. Each day, they serve as the first welcoming faces on campus while keeping daily operations running smoothly with professionalism, care, and efficiency.

Their dedication plays a vital role in supporting students, families, and staff, helping create the warm and supportive environments that define GGUSD. Their commitment to the district’s mission—equipping all students with the academic and personal skills for lifelong success—does not go unnoticed.

GGUSD is deeply grateful for the hard work, positivity, and heart these outstanding individuals bring to their roles every single day.

Join Us at Our Choose Wellness Education & Resource Fair!

Garden Grove Unified School District invites families and community members to its annual Choose Wellness Education & Resource Fair on Wednesday, April 29!

The event will take place at Fitz Intermediate Language Academy and will feature an afternoon and evening full of valuable resources and engaging activities for all ages. From 4:00–5:00 p.m., attendees can explore a resource fair with community partners, followed by informative workshops from 5:05–6:30 p.m., and student performances from 6:35–7:00 p.m.

Families can enjoy food, games, giveaways, wellness resources, and health screenings while learning about important topics like bullying prevention and supporting children’s mental health. Students will also have access to age-appropriate workshops focused on building healthy relationships and being an upstander.

Can’t attend in person? Select workshops will be available via livestream, making it easy for everyone to participate! Interpretation and childcare will also be provided to ensure all families feel welcome and supported.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and prioritize wellness—plus, attendees will have the chance to win exciting prizes!

Join Us at Our 60th Anniversary Celebration!

GGUSD is proud to welcome current and former students, staff, families, and community members to join in celebrating its 60th Anniversary on Friday, May 15 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Bolsa Stadium.

This exciting milestone event will honor GGUSD’s rich history, celebrate the incredible achievements of its students and staff, and look ahead to a bright future. It’s an event designed for all ages—truly something the whole family can enjoy!

Guests can look forward to:

🎭 Student performances showcasing musical and artistic talent

🍔 A variety of delicious food trucks

🚗 A mini car show featuring classic and unique vehicles

🏫 A History Walk highlighting 60 years of memories and milestones

🎧 Live music from a DJ throughout the evening

🎓 Alumni Association booths to reconnect with fellow graduates

📸 Photo stations to capture special moments

🎯 Fun games and activities for children

🎁 Prizes and giveaways from community partners and local businesses

This is a wonderful opportunity to come together, reconnect with friends, celebrate community pride, and honor the people who have helped make GGUSD so special over the past 60 years.

We looks forward to celebrating with the community for an evening filled with music, memories, and GGUSD pride!

GGUSD is Hiring College Tutors!

GGUSD is seeking dedicated undergraduate and graduate students to support programs like AVID, AVID Excel, Academies, and Resource Centers. This is a great opportunity to make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable experience in education.

College tutors play an important role in mentoring students, supporting their academic success, and helping build confidence for the future. With a positive work environment, competitive pay, and a strong team, GGUSD offers a rewarding way to give back to the community.

Pre-Enroll Your Child for the 2026/27 School Year!

GGUSD has opened pre-enrollment for the 2026-27 school year. We encourage families registering children in Preschool, Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Kindergarten to get started today!

Parents should pre-enroll online at enroll.ggusd.us and contact their child’s home school for support.

GGUSD Cohosts Webinar on Teen Mental Health in the Age of Social Media

GGUSD invites families to a special webinar on Teen Mental Health in the Social Media Age, presented in partnership with UC Irvine, UC Irvine Health and Assemblyman Tri Ta. Hear from leading experts about how social media impacts adolescent well-being and learn about practical tools and resources to help support healthy, resilient teens. RSVP: asmrc.org/gz/socialmedia

Free Live-Chat Tutoring for All GGUSD Students

GGUSD has partnered with Varsity Tutors to offer FREE 24/7 live chat tutoring and one-hour tutoring sessions to support students in their academic success (Goal 1). The program is accessible from home through ClassLink using a district-provided device.