On Monday, at their regular meeting, the Board of Education honored Tustin Girls Basketball Coach Claire Gocke in celebration of her receipt of the CIF Southern Section Champion of Character Award.  Coach Gocke was recognized for exemplifying the finest in sportsmanship, character, integrity and athletics. 

In addition, the Board heard reports from Student Board Members Samara Delgado (Hillview), Malaika Fortes (Foothill), Andres Garcia (Beckman), Jaiden Lee (Legacy), Valerie Ontiveros (Tustin) and Erin Song (Beckman).  Students shared an overview of events from their campuses, while Andres Garcia highlighted the elementary and middle schools across TUSD.  These students are to be commended for their outstanding reports!

Moreover, the Board of Education heard from Karen Knudson, Megan Venezia, Lisa Ryan, Monica Wyman, Elizabeth Diaz and Monica Sharp, as they shared an overview of our elementary summer school program and professional learning opportunities.  The great success of summer school, serving 320 students, and the summer scholars week of learning for GATE students, were celebrated.  In addition, the well attended professional learning opportunities available to staff this summer were highlighted.

This week, Foothill Knights participated in Club Rush. With 74 clubs on campus focused on everything from service to academics, hobbies and cultures, there is something for every student. Similar club rush events occurred at all of our high schools over the last two weeks. It is wonderful to see a large percentage of TUSD students connect to peers through at least one on campus club. As Foothill ICC President Briana Castellon explained, "Clubs give students a sense of belonging and connection with other students who have similar passions. These clubs provide services and support, and help to make Foothill and our local community a better place."

On November 6, the Tustin Public Schools Foundation (TPSF) will host its 31st Annual Dino Dash Ride and Run for Education.  Join the more than 10,000 expected community members as they enjoy activities for all ages in support of our TUSD schools.  Dino Dash includes the Smart and Final 2K Fun Run, 5K and 10K races, in addition to closed-course 5K, 15K and 50K bike rides.  All events begin at the Tustin Market Place where a family-friendly expo and food court will be available all morning.

To join us in support of all of our schools, register for the Dino Dash.  We look forward to seeing you on November 6!

A revised State Public Health Officer Order issued by the California Department of Public Health on September 13, indicated that school employees not vaccinated against COVID-19 will no longer have to undergo weekly testing, effective September 17. The Orange County Health Care Agency also amended its own public health order to reflect the changes.

As a reminder, TUSD will continue to offer weekly COVID Community Testing at Tustin High School as a courtesy service. In addition, protocols for reporting COVID positive cases remain in place.