June 13, 2025 | Issue No. 25

To the incredible Class of 2025, congratulations on reaching this extraordinary milestone! This moment marks the result of years of hard work, determination, and personal growth, and we are so proud to celebrate each of you.


This year, we honor graduates from across our learning community: North Monterey County High School, North Monterey County Middle School, Central Bay High School, and our Adult Education Programs. Each of you has a unique story—and each journey is a powerful reminder of what is possible when dedication meets opportunity.


To our high school graduates: You have faced challenges with courage and shown remarkable perseverance. Whether you're headed to college, a career, or exploring new paths, you leave North Monterey County High School with the tools, values, and confidence to take on what comes next. Your accomplishments are just the beginning of a future full of promise.


To our promoting middle school students: Transitioning to high school is a major step—and you’ve earned it. Your curiosity, growth, and determination throughout these years at North Monterey County Middle School have laid the groundwork for your continued success. We can’t wait to see how you’ll shine in high school and beyond.


To our Central Bay High School graduates: Your journey may have taken a different path, but your destination is one of pride and achievement. You've shown resilience, grit, and a strong commitment to your goals. Your success is a reflection of your strength and an inspiration to us all.


To our Adult Education graduates: Whether you’ve earned your diploma, completed your GED, or become a U.S. citizen, your determination exemplifies lifelong learning and perseverance. Balancing education with adult responsibilities takes extraordinary resolve, and we are deeply moved by your accomplishments.


To the entire Class of 2025—thank you for showing us what is possible through resilience, hard work, and hope. We celebrate your journey and look forward to everything you will do in the years ahead.



May your future be filled with purpose, opportunity, and joy. Congratulations!

Celebrating Our 2024-2025 NMCUSD Retirees


At the May 22 board meeting, NMCUSD proudly recognized and honored seven of our dedicated employees who are retiring following the 2024–2025 school year. These individuals have made a lasting impact on our schools, students, and community through their years of hard work and commitment.


Classified Staff Retirees:

  • Luis Hernandez, Custodian – 24 years of service
  • Susan Brzovich, Instructional Assistant, Special Education – 18 years of service
  • Martha Arista, Library Technician II – 33 years of service
  • Santiago Castillo, Head Custodian – 6 years of service


Certificated Staff Retirees:

  • Barry Bolduc, Science Teacher – 3 years of service
  • Pamela Lapier, Elementary Teacher – 10 years of service
  • Christen Mouser, CTE Teacher – 8 years of service


We extend our deepest gratitude to each of these outstanding individuals for their dedication, passion, and service to the North Monterey County Unified School District.

Celebrating Student Success: NMCHS Scholarship Banquet 2025


North Monterey County High School proudly hosted its annual Scholarship Banquet on May 21, 2025, honoring the achievements and bright futures of the Class of 2025.


In a heartwarming evening filled with celebration and gratitude, 92 scholarships were awarded to 35 outstanding students.

These scholarships represent the support of generous community organizations, businesses, and individuals who are committed to investing in the next generation of leaders, scholars, and changemakers.


Congratulations to all of our scholarship recipients! Your hard work, perseverance, and dedication have earned this well-deserved recognition.

NMCHS Senior Awarded Prestigious Full-Ride Scholarship to UCSC


North Monterey County High School senior, Samantha Donoso Trujillo, has been awarded the prestigious Sabatte Family Scholarship from the University of California, Santa Cruz. The scholarship provides a full ride to UCSC, where she plans to major in psychology with the goal of becoming a clinical or school counselor.


Donoso Trujillo is a first-generation student and has been part of the North Monterey County Unified School District community since the start of her academic journey. Her dedication, hard work and academic excellence have earned her this life-changing opportunity.


The Sabatte Family Scholarship is UCSC’s highest honor scholarship. It was made possible through an extraordinary bequest from alumnus Richard "Rick" Sabatte (Kresge ’75, psychology). The award fully covers the cost of attendance for high-achieving students with financial need after other grants and scholarships are applied.


NMCUSD celebrates Donoso Trujillo’s accomplishments and wishes her the very best as she begins this new chapter. Congratulations, Samantha — your North County community is so proud of you!

A Celebration of Extraordinary Care in NMCUSD


North Monterey County Unified School District celebrated the remarkable efforts of our school site care teams—those who consistently go above and beyond to support students and families.


These dedicated members of school sites’ Coordination of Support Teams (COST) embody compassion, commitment, and a deep sense of responsibility. Their daily work creates safe, nurturing environments and ensures that every student feels seen, supported, and valued.


Through their care, they have truly defied gravity—lifting others in times of need, breaking down barriers, and helping our entire school community rise together.


We are proud to recognize and honor these teams for the essential role they play in helping our students thrive.

Echo Valley Elementary Wraps Up the Year with Flipper Fest Celebration


Echo Valley Elementary School marked the end of the 2024–2025 school year with its beloved annual event—Flipper Fest—held on Friday, May 30, at the scenic Royal Oaks Park. With sunny skies and a joyful spirit in the air, students, families, and staff came together to celebrate a year of hard work, growth, and achievement.


The day was filled with lively dancing, exciting

games, and delicious food, creating lasting memories for the entire school community. A special highlight of the celebration was a live set by Grammy Award-winning DJ Iz Avila, who brought energy and excitement to the festivities.


Flipper Fest once again proved to be a perfect way to close out the school year—an epic event full of joy, connection, and celebration.

Student Voices Shine During Wallace Foundation Visit to Castro Plaza FRC


During the Wallace Foundation visit at the Castro Plaza Family Resource Center, student voices took center stage as they shared both the assets and needs of our community. We are grateful to the Hartnell Foundation for including North Monterey County Unified School District in this opportunity.


Middle and high school students were present and shared thoughtful insights alongside community partners, Superintendent Matt Turkie, and district staff.


There are ten applicants under consideration for Wallace Foundation funding. If selected, the Hartnell Foundation will support the implementation of mentorship and internship programs designed to uplift students in rural and underserved communities like ours—communities that often lack sufficient partnerships and resources.

Join Us: Special Education Committee Meeting on June 17


North Monterey County Unified School District invites families to attend our upcoming Special Education Committee meeting on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, from 5:00 to 6:30 PM at North Monterey County Middle School, Room 1.

This meeting will provide updates and information on key initiatives supporting students with disabilities and their families.


Topics include:

  • An update on the Alternative Pathway to a Diploma plan


  • Information about the WorkAbility Grant, which supports career readiness


  • Parent engagement planning and opportunities to give feedback


To ensure access for all families, the event will include Spanish interpretation, free dinner, and child care.


This is a valuable opportunity for parents, caregivers, and community members to connect, stay informed, and actively participate in shaping the future of special education in NMCUSD.

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Year-End Message from Superintendent Dr. Turkie


As we reach the end of the 2024-25 school year, our Superintendent, Dr. Matt Turkie, has shared some thoughtful reflections on this remarkable year.

The NEST Summer Academy is Underway!


The North Monterey County Unified School District (NMCUSD) NEST Summer Program began June 12th and will run until July 11, 2025.. The program accommodates all grade levels.

     

Elementary sessions in Castroville and Prunedale for grades TK-5 run from 8:00am to 2:00pm will include academic mornings led by certificated staff members. Middle school programs run from 8:30am to 2:30pm at the middle school.


The NEST Summer Academy provides fun and educational activities for students, including in language arts, math, STEAM, dance, e-Sports, soccer and more. 


The Summer Program will be closed on June 19, Jul 4, 2025.For more details, contact the NEST Coordinator, call the Expanded Learning office, or visit our website.

Free Summer Meals Available for Kids and Teens 18 & Under


North Monterey County Unified School District is proud to continue its commitment to student health and well-being by offering free summer meals for children and teens 18 years old and under. Through our partnership with No Kid Hungry, nutritious breakfasts and lunches will be served at several sites across Castroville and Prunedale, with no registration or application required.



These meals are available Monday through Friday, beginning June 9 at most locations. Service dates vary slightly by site, so please see below for full details.


Meal Sites and Serving Times:

  • El Cerrito Town Homes

860 Vista De Tierra Cir, Castroville

Breakfast: 8:00–8:30 a.m. | Lunch: 12:30–1:00 p.m.

June 9 – August 8

  • Sea Garden Apartments

10603 Axtell St, Castroville

Breakfast: 8:00–8:30 a.m. | Lunch: 12:45–1:15 p.m.

June 9 – August 8

  • Castroville Rec Center

11261 Crane St, Castroville

Breakfast: 8:00–8:30 a.m. | Lunch: 12:00–12:30 p.m.

June 9 – August 8

  • Castroville Elementary

11161 Merritt St, Castroville

Breakfast: 8:30–9:00 a.m. | Lunch: 12:00–12:30 p.m.

June 9 – August 8

  • Prunedale Elementary

17719 Pesante Rd, Salinas

Breakfast: 8:30–9:00 a.m. | Lunch: 12:00–12:30 p.m.

June 9 – July 11

  • NMC Middle School

10301 Seymour St, Castroville

Breakfast: 9:30–10:00 a.m. | Lunch: 12:00–12:30 p.m.

June 9 – July 11

  • NMC High School

13990 Castroville Blvd, Castroville

Breakfast: 8:00–8:30 a.m. | Lunch: 12:00–12:30 p.m.

June 16–20 and July 14 – August 8


Please Note: There will be no meal service at any site on Thursday, June 19 and Friday, July 4.


This summer meal program ensures that students continue to receive the nourishment they need to grow, learn, and thrive—even when school is not in session.


For more information, please contact NMCUSD Nutrition Services at (831) 633-3343 ext. 1401.

The 2025–2026 Academic Calendar Is Here!


North Monterey County Unified School District is excited to share that the official academic calendar for the 2025–2026 school year is now available. The calendar includes important dates such as the first and last days of school, holidays, breaks and staff development days. 


Click the button below to view the calendar and start planning for the year ahead.

Elkhorn Elementary Parents and Guardians Graduate from Positive Discipline Series for 2024–2025 School Year


Elkhorn Elementary proudly celebrated a major milestone as a dedicated group of parents completed the Positive Discipline Parent Education Series for the 2024–2025 school year. This impactful program, offered through the North Monterey County Unified School District (NMCUSD), supports families in building stronger, more respectful, and nurturing relationships at home and in the classroom.


Over the course of several weeks, participating parents engaged in hands-on workshops that focused on effective communication, mutual respect, emotional regulation, and solutions-focused discipline strategies. Facilitated by trained Positive Discipline educators, the series provided practical tools that empower parents to raise confident, responsible, and resilient children.


The graduation ceremony, held at Elkhorn Elementary, was a heartwarming celebration of the parents' commitment to personal growth and community involvement. Graduates received certificates of completion and were honored for their enthusiasm and dedication. Many shared heartfelt testimonials about how the program positively impacted their families, deepening their connections and improving daily routines at home.


NMCUSD remains committed to fostering strong partnerships with families by continuing to offer parent education opportunities like the Positive Discipline series. Congratulations again to our Elkhorn graduates — your leadership and dedication are helping to build a stronger school community!

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