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The Manteca Unified School District Board of Education held a special ceremony to recognize students who have achieved significant growth and met key learning goals in the classroom this year. Only one student from each school was selected for this honor, chosen by their teachers and principal.
This ceremony also acknowledged the families in the audience who play a vital role in supporting and encouraging their children’s learning. When students, parents, and schools work together, amazing things happen!
| | Manteca Unified Announces 2026 Classified Employees of the Year | | |
Elsa Forrest
Food & Nutrition Services
For 21 years, Elsa has been the heart behind nutritious and delicious meals at Manteca Unified.
Elsa’s positive attitude, commitment to nutrition, and strong work ethic make her one of the hardest-working people we know. She consistently gives 100%, ensuring every product served to students meets the highest quality standards while supporting those around her. Her interactions with students and staff are warm and genuine, creating an environment where everyone feels welcome!
Elsa currently works at East Union High School.
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Frances Lopez
Paraprofessional Services
For the past 12 years, Frances Lopez has dedicated herself to supporting students across Manteca Unified as a paraprofessional.
Frances approaches every task with empathy, adaptability, and a deep commitment to student success! She emphasizes the importance of individualized support that paraprofessionals offer in the classroom. She encourages a balanced and structured learning environment that keeps students focused in the classroom, showing that learning can be joyful, inclusive and meaningful for growth.
Francis currently works at Golden West Elementary School.
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Josh Gosnell
Custodial & Maintenance Services
Josh Gosnell has been maintaining Manteca Unified facilities for the past 9 years.
Josh’s work reminds everyone that a well-maintained school is essential for learning. Whether being asked to turn a wrench or strategize creative solutions to solve a problem, he consistently goes above and beyond expectations. His pride in his work is evident in his determination to keep school facilities both functional and welcoming.
Josh currently works in the Operations Department, serving many schools
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Kim Lewis
Transportation Services
Kim Lewis has spent the past 16 years steering students toward bright futures at Manteca Unified.
Kim is more than a bus operator, she is a role model, mentor, and community champion! Beyond merely completing her route, Kim mentors new drivers and fosters teamwork and excellence within the Transportation Department. Kim’s unwavering dedication to safety, love for students, and generous spirit create a safe space where students feel comfortable and supported.
Kim currently works in the Transportation Department.
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Yurica Avila
Clerical & Administrative Services
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For 18 years, Yurica Avila has been a steady force keeping Manteca Unified’s offices running smoothly.
Yurica models respect, care, and composure with every interaction. Yurica is often the steady force behind the scenes, supporting those on the front lines with care and precision. She wholeheartedly understands that everything we do is in service to students, and she lives that mission every day. Yurica is that person — the one who quietly ensures everything runs seamlessly, all while making those around her feel supported and seen.
Yurica currently works in the Business Services Division at the Manteca Unified District Office.
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MUSD Begins the Process of Selecting New K-8 Math Curriculum
Manteca Unified math educators and administrators recently launched the exciting journey of selecting a new K-8 math curriculum. With California's most updated Math Framework now reflecting modern best practices, MUSD is reviewing instructional materials to ensure our students continue to succeed in the subject.
The first meeting kicked off a months-long review and pilot process, which will eventually include testing the various curriculum options in select classrooms. Student and educator feedback will guide the decision-making to ensure the chosen program best supports learning at every level. Once the vetting process is complete, the K-8 Curriculum Committee will present its final recommendation to the Board of Education.
The adoption committee includes teachers from every school and grade level, including Special Education, working collaboratively to support grade-level success for all students.
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MUSD Alumni Earn Highest National FFA Honor
Four former Manteca Unified students were recognized at the 98th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis for earning the American FFA Degree, the highest honor an FFA member can achieve that is awarded to less than 1% of members nationwide.
2025 American FFA Degree Recipients:
- Alyssa Banks, Manteca High FFA
- Anna Page, Lathrop High FFA
- Belle Beglinger, East Union FFA
- Jessica Kinlaw Gutierrez, Lathrop High FFA
This prestigious achievement represents years of dedication, leadership, hands-on agricultural experience, and service to the community.
Congratulations to these exceptional young leaders who continue to make MUSD proud.
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First Manteca Firefighter Hired from CTE Program
Manteca Unified is thrilled to celebrate Brandon Bean, an Advanced Health Careers Pathway graduate, who was proudly pinned as a firefighter with the Manteca Fire Department during a special ceremony earlier this month.
Manteca Unified's Career Technical Education pathways play an essential role in college and career readiness, giving them real-world experience, industry-aligned training, and a clear vision for their future. Brandon's story is a perfect example of how these pathways open doors. What began in the Advanced Health Careers classroom grew into a career of service with the Manteca Fire Department, and his success reflects the strength of our pathways and the incredible opportunities they create for students across our district.
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This month, TK-6 grade students and families received their first trimester Standards-Based Report Card, which provides meaningful information about how your child is progressing toward individual learning standards.
It is important to celebrate the areas where your child is already "Proficient" or "Exceeding." However, this is also an important time to pay special attention to the areas marked "Approaching" or "Beginning," as these are the skills where your child needs your support the most.
Once you’ve reviewed your child’s report card, you may be asking: What comes next? Your child’s teacher is your best partner in understanding their progress and how to support continued growth at home.
| | Expanded Learning Programming During Winter Break | | Looking for enrichment opportunities for your child during Winter break? Express interest in enrollment for Winter Intersession for your TK-6th grade student! | | |
At Manteca Unified, there’s a role for anyone who believes every student can achieve! We’re proud to serve the communities of Manteca, Lathrop, French Camp, and Weston Ranch — and we’re looking for passionate individuals to join our team.
We have exciting opportunities available now, including:
- Paraprofessionals (Bilingual, Early Childhood Education)
- Bus Operator
- Campus Monitors
- Custodians
- Nutrition Services Assistants
- Purchasing Technician
- School Site Assistants
…and more!
Explore all open positions and apply today at edjoin.org/musd
Want to stay in the know about the current job openings? Fill out our MUSD Interest form to receive the latest job opportunity updates.
| | Updates from the November Board of Education Meeting | | School Board Adopts Student Calendar 2026-27 School Year | | |
Manteca Unified School District and Manteca Educators' Association collaborated on the newly adopted student calendar for the 2026-27 school year.
| | Soroptimist International Presents Donation to MUSD | | |
Manteca Unified received a $7,500 donation towards Health Services initiatives from Soroptimist International, bringing the grand total of donations from their organization to $392,000!
| | Sierra High "World Traveler's Club" Headed to Spain | | |
Sierra High School’s World Travelers Club is gearing up for an exciting journey with the approval of their next international trip — Spain during Spring Break 2027!
The Timberwolves’ club continues to offer unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences for MUSD students. Past adventures have taken students to Paris in 2024, Rome and Athens in 2025, and a trip is currently planned for Japan in 2026!
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Staying Prepared This Winter
With winter weather and fog rolling in and the sun setting a bit earlier each day, it’s a good moment to think about simple ways our MUSD students can stay safe this season.
Whether headed to and from school or after-school activities, encourage students to walk with a buddy, use well-lit paths, and take extra care on wet or slippery sidewalks and streets.
To support families during the colder months, Manteca Unified has put together helpful winter safety tips for our families.
Take a moment to review these tips and stay ready for the season ahead:
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Superintendent Dr. Clark Burk Serves Lunch
Superintendent Dr. Clark Burke rolled up his sleeves, tied the apron and tightened the hat, and joined the Nutrition Services team at McParland Annex to serve student's lunch.
"There is a lot of love that goes into these well-balanced meals. They help students fuel up so they can play hard and learn," expressed Dr. Burke. "I'm just really excited to share the day with the students."
AgVenture Hosted at Manteca Unified Farm
Third-grade students from Manteca, Ripon, Escalon, and Tracy Unified get the chance to explore agriculture up close at this annual event.
Check out more Manteca Unified REELS by following us on Instagram 👉 @proudtobemusd
| | Reclassification Ceremonies | | |
Throughout the month of November, Manteca Unified is hosting its annual Reclassification Ceremonies, recognizing over 400 students who have worked diligently to meet the criteria of becoming proficient in the English language.
Through the support of MUSD’s English Language Development (ELD) program, these students strengthened their skills in speaking, reading, writing, and understanding English — overcoming academic challenges and proving their readiness to soar in the classroom.
There are five total Reclassification Ceremonies this year, three of which have already been hosted at Weston Ranch High, Lathrop High, and Walter Woodward Elementary. Each one has been filled with cheers, proud families, and inspiring student stories that share their journey of becoming bilingual.
We are immensely proud of every student who has reached this milestone, and to the families, teachers, and staff who supported them along the way.
📲 Want to join in the celebration? Visit our MUSD social media channels to catch highlights from those already hosted, and the final two ceremonies.
| | Fall Star Olympics Shines for a Second Year | | |
What began as one teacher’s dream is now a beloved MUSD tradition! East Union High School’s Phenix Leadership Class hosted the second annual Fall Star Olympics, bringing together students from every comprehensive high school, the Adult Transition Program, and SJCOE for a morning of inclusive, student-led games and activities.
From beach ball volleyball to e-sports and cornhole, the gym was filled with cheers, teamwork, and joy, including a spirited opening parade and visit from Superintendent Dr. Clark Burke, who even joined in on the games.
| | Manteca Unified Hosts HOSA Area Leadership Conference | | |
MUSD hosted the HOSA, Future Health Professionals San Joaquin Area Leadership Conference this month, welcoming students from Lathrop, Manteca, and Weston Ranch High Schools, alongside participants from Linden Unified, Venture Academy and Health Careers Academy.
Students competed in a range of exam-based and hands-on events, including CPR/First Aid, sports medicine, medical math, medical terminology, and public service announcements, all to prepare them for the state leadership conference in March 2026.
The district also welcomed nursing students from Delta College, who assisted in leading interactive labs and serving as competition judges.
The day concluded with a closing ceremony where 18 of Manteca Unified’s students received awards for a top-three finish.
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December 3rd marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a global observance dedicated to championing the rights and celebrating the strengths and contributions of differently abled individuals.
This day celebrates the achievements of individuals with disabilities and underscores the importance of inclusive practices in our schools and communities.
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Computer Science Education Week
This annual event promotes the importance of computer science education and encourages students to explore programming and computational thinking. A key highlight is the "Hour of Code," which introduces coding to millions of learners worldwide.
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Human Rights Day
This United Nations Day marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing global efforts to secure human dignity, equality, and justice for all.
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Stay connected with us throughout the year by following Manteca Unified on social media and visiting our website for the latest news, events, resources, and more!
📲 Follow us & turn on notifications:
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MANTECA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT |
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Superintendent's Cabinet
Dr. Clark Burke, Superintendent
Roger Goatcher, Deputy Superintendent
Victoria Brunn, Assistant Superintendent
Clara Schmiedt, Assistant Superintendent
Melanie Greene, Assistant Superintendent
Dr. Jody Burriss, Senior Director of Special Education
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MUSD Board of Education
President Stephen J. Schluer, Area 6
Vice President Cathy Pope-Gotschall, Area 5
Board Clerk Marie Freitas, Area 4
Eric Duncan Sr., Area 1
Kathy Howe, Area 2
Denise Mathews, Area 3
Bob Wallace, Area 7
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Our Vision
Every student works to achieve grade level standards, feels safe and is supported to realize individual success.
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Our Mission
Through smart actions and decisions, MUSD will work together using meaningful, measurable and aligned data for all students to achieve mastery of grade level standards in all subjects based on their unique educational pathway in a safe environment inclusive of design, security and climate.
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