candy-cane-header.jpg

Anisha Munshi, Ed.D.

Superintendent

Gilroy Unified School District

Happy holidays!


As we approach the end of another year, it is hard to believe how quickly time has passed. We were delighted to kick off the season with the Holiday Parade organized by the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce. It was wonderful to see our staff and students participate, cheered on by our community.


This season often brings reflection—on gratitude, acts of kindness, and anticipation for the year ahead. This year, I have taken time to consider what I am most thankful for and to set personal intentions for the months to come. I am deeply grateful for my loving family, wonderful friends, dedicated colleagues, and the supportive community that continually grounds me, inspires me, and fills me with hope.


Serving the staff, students and families of the Gilroy Unified School District is not just a role—it is truly an honor and a privilege. I am proud of the progress we have made together and excited about the opportunities we continue to create for all of our students. At the heart of our work is the belief that students can thrive only when they are physically, emotionally, and mentally well. We remain committed to fostering an environment where both students and staff can perform at their very best.


None of this work would be possible without the invaluable support of our community partners. This month, two of our trusted partners—the YMCA and The Neon Exchange—continued their tradition of hosting the House of Toys, where families were able to select toys, books, and clothing for their children. We are incredibly thankful for the many volunteers who dedicated countless hours and for the generous donations from across our community.


Additionally, we were proud to partner with the Rotary Club of Gilroy to install 30 new benches across several school sites as part of their Trees to Read Under initiative. This project also brought 100 trees and numerous boxes of books to each of our district libraries. There are many other agencies that support our daily operations and families, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of them.


Before Thanksgiving break, we were also grateful for the support of South County Heals, which helped us serve hundreds of hot meals to families over three weekends. These efforts were made possible by a generous donation from the Bay Area nonprofit Community Seva. Initiatives like these highlight the power of community and remind us that it takes a village to raise our children.


Academically, we look forward to expanding our collaboration with higher education partners including Gavilan College and San José State University, creating even more opportunities for our students to succeed.


As we reflect on all that we have accomplished together, I wish you and your loved ones a restful and joyful holiday season. May your homes be filled with warmth, laughter, and peace. We look forward to seeing you in the new year as we continue our work with renewed hope and energy.


My best,

Anisha Munshi, Ed.D.

Superintendent


GUSD partners with Gavilan College to support MMHS students


The Gilroy Unified School District is thrilled to announce a partnership with Gavilan College on a new initiative that expands early access to higher education for Mt. Madonna High School students.


This collaboration supports MMHS students as they begin exploring college pathways, building their confidence through early exposure to post-secondary education, and reflects a shared commitment between GUSD and Gavilan College to access and equity for all learners.


We are proud of this partnership and the opportunities it creates for students in our community.

Josh Adams, Norm MacKenzie Rookie Athletic Director of the Year


Congratulations to Gilroy High School Athletic Director, Josh Adams, for being named the Central Coast Section 2025 Norm MacKenzie Rookie Athletic Director of the Year, by the California State Athletic Directors Association (CSADA).


The Norm MacKenzie Rookie Athletic Director of the Year Award is presented by the California State Athletic Directors Association (CSADA) to Athletic Directors who, within their first four years, have demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to their rofession. Recipients are nominated and selected by their respective sections throughout the state.


Candidates for this award exemplify the qualities of an outstanding educational leader who maintains athletics as an integral part of the total educational program. 


The recipient administers an exemplary athletic program, effectively utilizing school and community resources while providing opportunities for broad student participation. 


Additionally, candidates must meet the following criteria:

  • Have completed a minimum of one year and no more than four years as an active Athletic Director
  • Have made a significant and positive impact on the lives of students
  • Have used athletics as a catalyst to promote meaningful progress within the social and cultural environment of the school and/or community.


Mr. Adams is committed to student success, educational leadership, and the advancement of interscholastic athletics. 


Congratulations Josh! We are proud of you!

CAASPP/ CAST Recognitions


Congratulations to the 58 GUSD students who received top scores on the CAASPP and/ or CAST exams last year.


The CAASPP, or California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress, assesses student performance in English language arts/literacy, mathematics, and science based on California's academic content standards.


The CAST, or California Science Test, assesses students' knowledge and skills in science based on the California Next Generation Science Standards.


It covers three main domains: Life Sciences, Earth and Space Sciences, and Physical Sciences.


31 students received the top score on the CAASPP in mathematics. 20 received the top score on the CAASPP in English Language Arts.


Five students received the top score on BOTH CAASPP exams!


Six students earned the top score on the CAST.


Students earning top scores on the CAASPP and/ or CAST are recognized for their accomplishments at a board meeting.


Registration for incoming TK and kindergarten students to enroll in the GUSD Dual Immersion program opens January 4, 2026.


Dual Immersion (DI) is a dual-language education program in which native English speakers and native Spanish speakers are integrated for academic content instruction through both English and Spanish. Instruction is at least 50% in Spanish. Students begin the program in transitional kindergarten in elementary school and can continue through 12th grade.


Students who enroll in the DI program will attend school at either Glen View Elementary (TK-1st grades), Las Animas Elementary (2nd through 5th grades), or Rod Kelley Elementary (kindergarten through 5th grades).


If you are interested in the dual immersion program, a parent or guardian MUST attend an orientation prior to applying. All orientation meetings will be conducted in English and Spanish. There are two options for orientation: virtual (registration required) or in-person (no registration required, but attendance will be verified.


Virtual:

  • Wednesday, January 28, 6:30 pm, via Zoom (registration is required). Register online.

In Person:

  • Tuesday, February 12, 6:30 pm at Glen View Elementary (600 W. Eighth Street)
  • Wednesday, February 25, 6:30 pm at Rod Kelley Elementary (8755 Kern Avenue)


Questions? Please contact Dorien Koene (dorien.koene@gilroyunified.org)


For more information, visit: https://www.gilroyunified.org/enrollment-registration/dual-immersion-program


Enrollment in GUSD


Enrollment in the Gilroy Unified School District is open and ongoing! To enroll your student in GUSD, visit our website, or visit your student's neighborhoood school.

  • December 18-- Board Meeting at the District Office, at 7 pm. Watch the livestream.
  • December 22-January 2—No school for students. Winter break. ** GECA students are off December 1-January 6.
  • January 19—No school for students. Martin Luther King Day.
  • January 23—No school for students. Staff development day.
What's Up in GUSD

We want you to join Team GUSD! The Gilroy Unified School District is currently hiring for a number of positions, including: paraeducator, campus supervisor, music coach, substitute food service assistant, substitute site supervisor, substitute custodian, substitute paraeducator, substitute teacher, special day class teacher, Director of Child Nutrition, bus drivers, head and assistant coaches.


For more information, contact our Human Resources Department.

Gilroy Unified School District | (669) 205-4000 | 7810 Arroyo Cir., Gilroy, 95020 | gilroyunified.org
Facebook  Linkedin  Instagram  Youtube