September 2022

A Place for Teachers to Grow: Professional Learning Communities in MUSD

We all know that teachers spend the majority of their workday in a classroom with students. But have you ever wondered how teachers connect and learn from one another – even when they teach at different schools?

In The Classroom:

French Camp Learning Commons

French Camp Elementary School has a new building on campus! Known as the "M-wing" the building features 8 brand-new classrooms, modern furniture, and a collaborative common area.

Phase #1 of Expanded Learning Opportunities in MUSD

Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (E.L.O.P.) is a new state initiative which provides school districts with funding for enrichment programs outside of the school day for TK-6th grade students.  

This means that elementary students will soon have access to before school, after school, summer and/or intersession learning programs that focus on developing the academic, social, emotional and physical needs and interests of students through engaging learning experiences. 

Our District is very excited to offer even more learning opportunities to students!

Thank You Custodians!

October 2nd is National Custodians Day! Custodians work hard each day, ensuring our District campuses are safe and maintained. They also play an important role supporting school events, athletic games and so much more! Without custodians, school operations would not be possible.

Be sure to thank your custodians! Need some ideas?

• Give them a hand-drawn card!
• Write them a thank you note!
• Tell them you appreciate them!
• Clean up after yourself whenever you can!

Parent Engagement in Manteca Unified

MUSD’s new parent engagement program has been designed to be practical, high-impact, and easy to implement at each school site. The official kickoff took place on August 29th, with each participating school sending a selected “facilitator team” of 4-6 individuals – a mix of parents and staff – to attend a two-day training at the District Office!

Buzz-ing with Delight Over Shasta Elementary's Chess Club

This school club was founded six years ago, beginning organically when RSP Specialist teacher Danny Resendiz had two students ask to hangout in his classroom during lunch.

It's National Hispanic Heritage Month!

This four-week celebration recognizes the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States! Hispanic heritage includes all Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. 

Celebrating Mexican Independence Day with Dance!

Filled with bright costumes, lively music and fast dance moves, students at French Camp Elementary School celebrated Mexican Independence day with dance!

Click below to watch ABC10's segment on this exciting annual event!

Food Literacy Month

September is Food Literacy Month! Food Literacy is understanding the impact of your food choices on our health, environment, and economy–and understanding that these impacts are not experienced equitably.

For more information on food literacy and educational activities for children click the button below!

We are excited to share that The Mark Highlights will now publish student work each month, spotlighting future journalists!

Check out a few of their projects below:

Weston Ranch High School students, led by teacher Patrick Windschitl, wrote stories this month to highlight events on campus.

MEChA Kicks Off Hispanic Heritage

Month with Ballet Folklorico

By Aaron Martinez (The Prowl)

WRHS’s MEChA Club kicked off the celebration when they performed the Ballet Folklorico de Mexico on September 16 on the quad. 

Cougars Take Talent to Top

By The Prowl Staff

Fourteen acts came to the stage in the Performing Arts Center and dazzled the packed house with various acts showcasing the many talents of the Weston Ranch students.

Manteca High School students, led by teacher James Burns, wrote peer profiles this month to highlight their fellow Buffaloes!

Drawn to Art

By Saeed Safi (Tower News)

Manteca High senior Christina Telles sees the world through the lens of an artist, from the buildings on campus with their many murals to movies and animations, and everything in between.

Schools March On

By Ronnie Fuentes and Nicole Herrera

(Tower News)

The three drum majors are the leaders of the Manteca High band, guiding the group through rehearsals and performances. Each of them carries out the instructions of the band director. They’re in charge of keeping everyone coordinated and making sure performances portray their true potential.