Bolsa Grande Senior Named National Merit Semifinalist

Lena Giang, an outstanding scholar from Bolsa Grande High School, has been named a semifinalist in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program — a prestigious honor earned by less than one percent of high school seniors nationwide. In addition, five Bolsa Grande students were recognized as National Merit Commended Students, highlighting their exceptional academic achievement and dedication. GGUSD celebrates these remarkable scholars and their hard work!

GGUSD Continues to Achieve Growth on State Benchmarks

GGUSD continues to show positive growth on state benchmarks! The 2025 California School Dashboard was recently released and highlights the success of our students, including:

• Increased 4.1 Points in English Language Arts
• Increased 3.6 Points in Mathematics
• Increased 2% on English Learner Progress
• Increased 2.3% on College and Career Readiness

These results reflect the dedication of our staff to equip all students with the academic and personal skills for lifelong success.

Mock Trial Students Step Into the Courtroom

Students from the Mock Trial Clubs at Garden Grove High School and La Quinta High School stepped into the courtroom recently for an exciting Mock Trial competition at the Orange County Superior Courthouse. Both teams brought their A-game—arguing their cases, thinking on their feet, and showcasing the kind of confidence and critical-thinking skills needed in the courtroom.

Kudos to GGHS Club Advisor Mr. Holguin and LQHS Club Advisor Mr. Poredi for guiding their teams, and extra kudos to the students who dedicated time every week to practice and prepare.

Will your child be entering TK or Kindergarten next year? If so, now is the perfect time to learn about GGUSD’s Dual Immersion programs! GGUSD’s Dual Language Immersion programs — Spanish at Monroe, Russell, and Simmons and Vietnamese at Murdy — help students become confident, bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural learners. Join us at an upcoming Parent Information Session this December or January to learn more about enrolling your TK/K student for the 2026–27 school year. Reserve your spot today and discover why our dual language programs are among the best — preparing students for lifelong success in a global society. Check out the graphic for the December Parent Orientation dates. More to come in January.

La Quinta High School Students Light Up the Stage

La Quinta High School’s Performing Arts students lit up the stage recently with their spectacular performances of Frozen! Students from Drama, Choir, and Dance have been rehearsing since the very beginning of the school year, pouring their talent, dedication, and creativity into bringing this magical production to life. Kudos to the performers and the staff who supported them—what an unforgettable show from the La Quinta Performing Arts program!

Cook Elementary is Buzzing with Learning

This week, Cook’s 3rd graders participated in Philosophical Chairs — an engaging activity where students agree or disagree with a statement and explain their reasoning. It’s a powerful way for scholars to practice listening, consider different perspectives, and build strong critical-thinking skills.

Meanwhile, 6th graders took a deep dive into their Benchmark testing results, learning how their progress connects to class placements as they prepare for intermediate school. Such an important step in helping students understand their growth and take ownership of their learning! Plus, the Cook PTO is spreading holiday cheer with a Holiday Gift Shop running all week! Students can purchase affordable gifts for family members while practicing budgeting skills and experiencing the joy of giving. So much learning, leadership, and holiday spirit at Cook Elementary!

Doig Intermediate Continues to Build Strong Family-School Connection

Strong family–school connections play a vital role in helping students thrive, and Doig Intermediate is a shining example of this partnership in action.

At Doig, school administrators regularly collaborate with parents through Family Council meetings, creating a meaningful space to share important information, discuss key topics, and work together to support student success. These conversations help ensure that families feel informed, empowered, and connected—leading to stronger outcomes for students.

GGUSD is proud to see schools like Doig fostering a supportive community where families and educators unite to help every student reach their full potential.

GGUSD Student Art in Anyang Exhibit

Twenty pieces of artwork from GGUSD students, grades kindergarten through 12, were displayed in the 2025 Anyang City International Sister City Virtual Student Art Exhibition, in Anyang, Republic of Korea. Requested by the Sister City Association of Garden Grove, a local non-profit organization dedicated toward enhancing the relationship between Garden Grove and its sister city, Anyang Republic of Korea, the 20 pieces of artwork are within the exhibition’s theme of memory.

GGUSD Recognizes December 2 as National Special Education Day

GGUSD is proud to celebrate the incredible students, staff, and families who make our Special Education programs outstanding. Every day, GGUSD educators empower students of all abilities to learn, grow, and shine — and today is the perfect day to recognize their hard work, achievements, and limitless potential. Thank you to our dedicated Special Education teachers, support staff, and service providers who make a lasting impact across our district.

Important Dates for the 2025-26 School Year

Looking for important dates and holidays during the school year? View our GGUSD 2025-26 school year calendar and bookmark this page to keep track of the important dates this upcoming school year!

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.