Board of Education to Hold Special and Regular Meetings on May 19 and May 20, 2025

The Board of Education will hold a special meeting on May 19, 2025, followed by the regular board meeting on May 20, 2025, both at the District office. The special meeting on May 19 will begin with a closed session at 5 p.m., followed by an open session at 6:30 p.m. The regular meeting on May 20 will also start with a closed session at 5 p.m., with the open session beginning at 6:30 p.m. Visit our website here to read the agendas, submit public comments, and watch the meetings live.

SAUSD Honors Top Seniors from the Class of 2025

On May 15, 2025, SAUSD celebrated the top academic achievers from the Class of 2025 during its annual Top Seniors Awards Ceremony. The event recognized students for their exceptional accomplishments and hard work throughout their academic journey. Members of the SAUSD Board of Education — President Hector Bustos, Vice President Katelyn Brazer Aceves, Clerk Valerie Magdaleno, and Board Members Dr. Alfonso Alvarez and Brenda Lebsack — were present to help honor these outstanding scholars. Visit www.sausd.us/ClassOf2025 to catch the replay of the ceremony, read the program, view event photos, and watch a short highlight video.

SAUSD Scholars Shine at AVID 8th Grade Standout Recognition Celebration

This month, students from nine SAUSD schools were honored at the OC Department of Education’s AVID 8th Grade Standout Recognition Celebration held at Angel Stadium. Among the honorees, Ann Nong from MacArthur Fundamental and Danett Guevara from Mendez Fundamental were named Angels Scholars—two of only eight students countywide to receive this prestigious honor. Each Angels Scholar was awarded a $10,000 college scholarship from the Angels Baseball Foundation. We are incredibly proud of all our standout scholars for their achievements! Learn more about this year’s honorees here and click here to view photos. 

SAUSD Seniors Honored as 2025 AVID Standouts

Congratulations to our incredible SAUSD senior scholars who have been recognized by the Orange County Department of Education as 2025 AVID Senior Standouts. Students from across the District were recently celebrated for their hard work and dedication during a special ceremony at the Irvine Barclay Theatre. We’re so proud of all of their accomplishments. Learn more about this year’s honorees here.

Lathrop Principal Cesar Flores Honored with Prestigious Administrator Award

Lathrop Intermediate Principal Cesar Flores was formally recognized with the Marcus Foster Memorial Award for Administrator Excellence during ACSA Region 17’s Administrator of the Year Celebration Dinner at the Irvine Marriott. This distinguished award celebrates Principal Flores’ unwavering commitment to equity-driven leadership and student success. We are proud to have such a dedicated and visionary leader serving the SAUSD community. Click here for photos.

SAUSD Board of Education Proclaims May 18, 2025 National Speech-Language Pathologist Day

The SAUSD Board of Education officially proclaimed May 18, 2025, as National Speech-Language Pathologist Day in our district. We celebrate the incredible speech-language pathologists who help our students find their voice and thrive. We thank them for all their dedication and hard work. Click here to read the full resolution.

SAUSD Arts Recognized as One of the Best Communities for Music Education

SAUSD Arts was honored as one of the Best Communities for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation. This prestigious national award recognized the district’s dedication to delivering high-quality music education to all students. We extend our gratitude to the incredible educators, staff, and community members whose ongoing support has made this achievement possible.

Saddleback High Hosts Delegation from Korea National University of Education

Saddleback High School had the distinct honor of welcoming a delegation from the Korea National University of Education (KNUE), following their visit to the SAUSD district office the previous day. The group, made up of more than 50 first-year principals, heard from staff about how SAUSD is bringing the SAUSD Graduate Profile to life through programs like Career Technical Education (CTE), International Baccalaureate (IB), dual enrollment, Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA), and more. It was a memorable day of learning and connection—thank you to our visitors from KNUE for joining us! Click here to view photos.

Get Ready to Celebrate: 2025 Commencement Ceremony Schedule Released

Graduation season is here! SAUSD is proud to share the schedule for this year’s high school commencement ceremonies. Click here to view the full lineup of dates, times, and locations. Please note: Admission tickets are required for in-person guests. All ceremonies will also be live streamed at www.sausd.us/ClassOf2025 so everyone can join in the celebration!

Class of 2025: What’s Next After Graduation?

SAUSD wants to celebrate your next chapter—whether you're headed to college, joining the workforce, enlisting in the military, or exploring another path. Share your post-graduation plans by logging into your sausdlearns account, completing our interest form here, and uploading a photo. You could be featured in our upcoming #SAUSDClassof2025 social media campaign!

Video: SAUSD Immigration FAQ: Empowering Our Community Through Knowledge

In a recent video interview, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Lorraine Perez speaks with legal expert Gabriel Sandoval about key legal protections for undocumented students and school staff. The conversation covers how to respond to immigration-related inquiries, the meaning of "sanctuary campus," and the rights of staff who support undocumented students. A must-watch for educators, parents, and advocates—empowerment begins with knowing your rights. Click here to watch.

SAUSD Committed to Safety and Support for All Families

SAUSD reaffirms its commitment to keeping schools safe and welcoming for all families, and is offering Know Your Rights workshops, Red Cards, and Family Preparedness resources to help empower and support our community. Click here to read more.

SAUSD Campuses Remain Safe Havens for All

On Dec. 17, 2024, the SAUSD Board of Education reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity, equity, and safety by adopting a resolution designating all district sites as welcoming spaces for every student. This resolution ensures that district resources will never be used for immigration enforcement and reinforces our promise to provide a supportive learning environment for all. Together, we stand united in empowering our community and ensuring every student feels safe, valued, and supported. Click here to read the full resolution.

Superintendent Almendarez Reaffirms SAUSD’s Support for Students and Families Amid Immigration Enforcement

At SAUSD, our commitment to students and families is unwavering. Our schools are safe havens for everyone, regardless of immigration status. We provide vital resources such as mental health services, legal assistance, and educational opportunities to ensure our campuses remain inclusive and welcoming spaces for learning and growth. Learn more about how SAUSD stands with our community—today, tomorrow, and always. Click here to read and watch a video message from Superintendent Jerry Almendarez.

The State of California Launches Comprehensive Immigration Resource Hub for Families and Organizations

This website, available at https://www.ca.gov/immigration/, provides vital information for families with mixed immigration statuses and for groups such as schools, local governments, and community organizations. The resources aim to clarify public program eligibility, federal immigration policy implications, and more. The site will be regularly updated to ensure resources remain current and helpful as policies evolve. Resources are available in English, Spanish, and other languages to ensure accessibility for diverse communities. Additionally, the California Attorney General’s Office has released updated quick reference guides for school staff, students, and families. These guides, building on previous guidance, offer essential information on educational rights for immigrant students. The complete guides are available in English, Spanish, and additional languages at oag.ca.gov/immigrant/resources, with translations in more languages coming soon to further support all families.

Free Virtual Doctor Visits for SAUSD Families

Exciting news for SAUSD families! Students now have access to free virtual doctor visits at home through Hazel Health. To get started, simply log into the Aeries parent portal, give permission to share your student's data, and complete Hazel’s consent form. Ensure your student has access to care anytime they need it! Get started today at: getstarted.hazel.co/district/sausd.

Celebrate Our Heartbeat of SAUSD: Nominations Open for 2024-25

SAUSD is excited to continue our "Heartbeat of SAUSD" recognition program. This special honor celebrates the dedicated staff members who embody the spirit, resilience, and commitment that drive our district's success. We are seeking nominees who:

• Have multiple family members working in various roles across SAUSD
• Are proud alumni or have attended SAUSD schools

If you or your family exemplify these values and have a deep connection to our educational community, we want to hear from you! Submit your nomination here. Thank you for helping us recognize the heart and soul of SAUSD!

Plan Ahead with SAUSD's Academic Calendars

The academic calendars for the 2024-25, 2025-26, and 2026-27 school years are available on our website. Stay informed and plan your school year ahead! Click here to access the calendars!

Flyers: Community Resources and More: Week of May 14-20, 2025

Looking to connect with groups that provide free groceries, diapers, parenting workshops and more? Check out this week's flyer round-up here for details on these and other helpful resources.

Concert of the Century Showcases SAUSD Student Talent

The 3rd Annual Concert of the Century was a night to remember as students from across SAUSD lit up the stage with powerful performances that highlighted the strength of our alternative music programs. Thank you to Board Member Dr. Alfonso Alvarez and all who joined us in celebrating our students' creativity and passion. Click here to watch a short video!

Discover Resources and Support at the CAC Resource Fair

Families of children with special needs are invited to attend the annual CAC Resource Fair on Thursday, May 22, 2025, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Godinez Fundamental High School. This event offers a valuable opportunity to connect with local organizations and explore a wide range of resources, services, and supports. Watch a short promo video in English here and in Spanish here.

Exploring Creativity Through Graphic Design at Valley High School

SAUSD offers a wide range of Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways for students in grades TK-12. Click here to take a peek inside the Graphic Design classroom at Valley High School, where students are unleashing their creativity while building real-world design skills that can lead to exciting future careers.

Creative Career Pathways at Godinez Fundamental

SAUSD offers a wide range of Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways for students in grades TK-12. At Godinez Fundamental High School, students in the Film Production & Adobe Certification class are gaining hands-on experience with Adobe Premiere and Photoshop while delving into careers in video editing, graphic design, and more. These real-world skills help prepare them for college and future careers. Click here for a glimpse into their learning in action!

SAHS Fashion Show Shined Bright in Downtown Santa Ana

On May 14, 2025, Santa Ana High School’s Fashion Design and Merchandising students dazzled the crowd with their annual student-run fashion show in Downtown Santa Ana. The event showcased their creativity, hard work, and accomplishments from the school year in a stunning celebration on the runway. Watch a short highlight video of the event here.

SAUSD Community Schools Convened at Delhi Center to Reflect and Dream Big

On May 15 2025, 15 SAUSD Community Schools gathered at the Delhi Center to reflect on their progress, share insights, and envision a bright future for students and families. The convening included powerful presentations, showcases, and heartfelt testimonials from staff, parents, and students, all emphasizing their shared commitment to thriving schools and communities. We thank Board Clerk Valerie Magdaleno for joining us and supporting this important work! Watch a short highlight video of the event here.

SAUSD Rewind for Week of May 12-16, 2025

Join us in taking a quick look back at our top headlines of the week. Click here to watch.