GGUSD Celebrates January 2026 Employees of the Month

At its meeting on Tuesday, GGUSD's Board of Education honored two extraordinary staff members as Employees of the Month for their outstanding contributions to our schools and community. These individuals consistently exemplify excellence, leadership, and dedication in their roles — going above and beyond each and every day.

Certificated Employee of the Month

Vicky Lieu, Chemistry and Physics teacher at Santiago High School. Vicky is known for her passion for teaching, commitment to students, and innovative classroom experiences — including AP boot camps, field trips, and competitive opportunities that truly elevate student learning. Her dedication has helped her students thrive and succeed.

Classified Employee of the Month

Jessica Terrones, School Office Clerk I at Patton Elementary. Jessica’s warm positive energy and genuine care for families and students create a welcoming environment for all who walk through the doors. Her commitment to customer service and support makes a meaningful difference in the Patton community.

Please join GGUSD in thanking Vicky and Jessica for their outstanding service and for embodying the spirit of excellence that supports student success! Watch the full video to meet our honorees and learn more about their stories!

GGUSD Honors Athletes & Coaches of Character

GGUSD's Board of Education proudly recognized Athletes and Coaches of Character from each of our eight high schools at the January 20 Board meeting. Representing a wide range of sports, these outstanding student-athletes and coaches exemplify integrity, teamwork, perseverance, and positive sportsmanship—both on and off the field.

With nearly 5,500 high school athletes competing across 22 sports and 13 leagues,

GGUSD athletics continues to build character, leadership, and excellence through teamwork and dedication. Congratulations to all of our Athletes and Coaches of Character for strengthening our athletic programs and inspiring our school communities every day!

Student Creativity on Display at Imagine This! Art Exhibit

Student creativity was on full display at this year’s Imagine This Art Exhibit! The unique project showcased drawings from transitional kindergarten and kindergarten students, brought to life by GGUSD high school Visual Arts students using the techniques and training they’ve developed through their art education.

From imaginative ideas to skilled execution, the exhibit highlighted dozens of artistic interpretations of space—and the power of collaboration across grade levels. Thank you to Board of Education Trustees Teri Rocco and Walter Muneton who attended to show their support for our wonderful visual and performing arts programs. We loved seeing the incredible talent and creativity on display!

Latinos Unidos Conference Inspires Students to Lead

Nearly 400 GGUSD students proudly united for an incredible day of leadership, learning and connection at the district’s 13th Annual Latino Unidos Conference held Saturday at Cal State Fullerton!

Planned and led by inspiring Latino Unidos student leaders, the conference kicked off with powerful remarks from Superintendent Dr. Gabriela Mafi and United Way OC’s Sergio Contreras, uplifting students with messages of resilience, opportunity and the power of student voice

Students engaged in dynamic, hands-on workshops focused on college and career planning, time management, scholarships and overcoming barriers. Board of Education Trustee Teri Rocco attended the conference, and Trustee Walter Muneton led one of the workshops, highlighting the Board’s strong commitment to uplifting and supporting Latino Unidos students

Students engaged in meaningful leadership development activities, showcasing the role that the Latinos Unidos Club has had in increasing Latino growth on state test scores and a-g rates as well as empowering students with scholarly habits and motivation. Throughout the day, students connected with community organizations, explored future career pathways, toured the campus and connected with other like-minded student leaders.

Latino Unidos continues to shine as a powerful force in GGUSD — honoring culture, fostering belonging and building confident leaders for the future!

Hands-On Learning Swims Into Crosby

The Long Beach Aquarium brought their mobile aquarium to Crosby last week, giving students an unforgettable opportunity to learn about—and even touch—real, live sea animals. The excitement and curiosity were contagious! A big thank-you to the Crosby PTA for hosting this fin-tastic experience that made learning come alive.

GGUSD Schools Celebrate the 100th Day of School

Hazard Elementary students proved that 100 days of learning makes you wise beyond your years! From gray hair and rollers to suspenders and big smiles, they celebrated the 100th day of school by dressing up like adorable "100-year-olds."

Learn How to Enroll Your Child in One of Our Dual Immersion Programs!

Don’t miss out! Attend an upcoming Parent Orientation Meeting to learn how to enroll your TK/Kindergarten child in one of our Spanish Dual Immersion programs at Monroe, Russell, or Simmons for the 2026–27 school year.

Our Spanish Dual Immersion programs help students grow into confident, bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural learners. Discover why our dual language programs are among the best—preparing students for lifelong success in a global society

Remaining Parent Orientation Meetings:

Monroe Elementary

January 27 at 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Russell Elementary

January 26 at 8:30 a.m.

Simmons Elementary

January 29 at 9:00 a.m.

Learn More About CTE Pathways at Our Parent Info Session!

Considering a School Transfer for the 2026–2027 school year?

While most GGUSD students attend their school of residence or the neighborhood school closest to home, GGUSD offers transfer options for families who would like to explore other opportunities. Families living within GGUSD boundaries may apply for an intradistrict transfer, and families living outside GGUSD boundaries may apply for an interdistrict transfer. The 2026–2027 transfer application window is open now through February 13, 2026.

Applications are 100% online—no need to visit the district office or a school site.

Apply at ggusd.us/transfers

Transfer Window Timeline (2026–2027):

• Priority Window: January 12 – February 13, 2026

(Intradistrict Parental Choice and specified reason intradistrict/interdistrict applications)

• Applications received after this window will be processed as space allows

Dual Language Academies:

For Spanish Dual Language at Monroe, Russell, or Simmons or Vietnamese Dual Language at Murdy, the priority enrollment period ends January 31, 2026. Learn more and sign up for a parent orientation at ggusd.us/dual.

Questions or need support? Contact the Office of Student Services at (714) 663-6391 or visit ggusd.us/transfers for more information.

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.