Welcome to Meaningful May!

This May, we are celebrating a month dedicated to small daily actions that bring purpose and joy to our lives. Each day offers a simple prompt to help us reflect, connect, and act with intention. Let us make this month one of kindness, connection, and meaning together.

Click here to download and print the calendar.

Staff Spotlight: Monroe's Lynette Watkins

From the words of her peers: Who supports every student, every day, making sure their needs are met? Who shows up for staff to make their days easier, organizes family and school events, created a care closet for the community, and still finds time to cover classes and meet with others during her “regular” day? It’s Lynette Watkins!

Lynette has stepped into a new role this year as our Community School Coordinator, but going above and beyond has always been her way. Even when she was teaching PE, she brought so much more, always finding ways to support, uplift, and serve. She is a woman of many talents, a generous heart, and unwavering dedication. Monroe is better because of her, and the entire San Leandro community has felt the impact of her work.

Thank you, Lynette, for everything you do. You do a lot, and it shows.

We love celebrating the incredible people who make SLUSD shine, and we need your help to do it. Do you know a staff member who goes above and beyond, brings positivity to their school or department, or helps make our district a truly special place to work and learn? Let us know by submitting a shoutout, and we’ll feature them in this newsletter. It’s time to give our everyday stars the spotlight they deserve!

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental health matters. Many people around us are facing challenges we may not see, and they deserve care, understanding, and support. Mental health struggles do not define who someone is. They are simply part of being human.

By speaking openly and compassionately, we can help break the stigma and build a culture where everyone feels safe asking for help.

You are not alone. Help is always available.

San Leandro Unified School District offers free and confidential support through Care Solace, a mental health care coordination service that can connect you to the right provider quickly and easily.

Here is how to connect:

• Call 888 515 0595 — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with multilingual support
• Visit www.caresolace.com/slusdfamilies — to search for a provider or click “Book Appointment” for personalized help through video, phone, or email

Managing Stress Supports Your Wellbeing

Stress is a normal part of life, but when it builds up it can affect your mood, sleep, focus, and even your immune system. The good news is that small, consistent habits, such as staying active, getting enough rest, and connecting with others, can make a significant difference. Taking time to manage stress is not a luxury; it is a necessity. It is an essential part of maintaining your overall health and wellness.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, consider taking this quick and confidential anxiety screening to better understand your stress levels and how to get support.

May is National High Blood Pressure Education Month

High blood pressure often has no symptoms, but it can lead to serious health problems like heart disease and stroke. The good news is that it is both preventable and manageable. This month is a reminder to check your blood pressure, know your numbers, and take small steps to protect your health, such as eating well, moving more, and managing stress. A few simple changes can make a big difference.

14 Benefits of Strength Training

Regular strength training can improve your strength and flexibility, and decrease your risk of injury and falls. Keep reading for more benefits and tips to get the most out of your strength routine. Get powered up here.

Mindset for Success: Simple Shifts for Positive Change

Your mindset—how you see yourself and the world—shapes your thoughts, emotions, and actions. It influences your ability to bounce back from challenges and pursue your goals.

From family and health to finances and culture, many factors shape your mindset. But with the right tools, you can shift it in ways that support greater well-being and success.

Explore mindset frameworks, practical tips, and resources to help you build a mindset that supports a happy and healthy life.



Discover your mindset framework here.

How Forgiveness Changes You and Your Brain

The three systems of the brain involved in forgiveness can improve our well-being in other areas of life. Read more here.

How Long Does It Take to Build a Habit (and How to Make It Stick)?

Curious how long it really takes to form a new habit—and why it matters? Discover the science behind habit building and explore six mindful strategies to help you create lasting, positive change. Start your habit journey here.

SLUSD Pet of the Month: Meet Boomer and Ronin Aguilera

Say hello to Boomer and Ronin, the feline duo behind Afelda Aguilera, our newest Office Assistant in Personnel Services.

Boomer is the tiny newcomer, just 2 months old, with black, brown, and white fur and a very big appetite. He insists on four meals a day. When he is not napping, he is climbing anything he can, including his humans.

Ronin, the 4-year-old big brother, is a black and brown tabby who lives for chicken treats, long sunbathing sessions, and waking his family up at exactly 6 o'clock in the morning for breakfast. No exceptions.

The two cats are about to meet for the first time this month. Wish them and Afelda good luck!

Do you know an adorable SLUSD pet that deserves some virtual tummy kisses? Send to communications@slusd.us and share the joy!

Sheet Pan Veggie Buddha Bowl

Have a healthy and delicious dinner with this Sheet Pan Veggie Buddha Bowl. It’s really simple to make and full of amazing nutrients.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 sweet potato, cubed
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 (15 oz.) can chickpeas, drained
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups cauliflower florets
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• Juice from 1 lemon
• 4 cups kale
• 1 tablespoon flax seed
• 1/4 cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
• 1/2 avocado, sliced
• 2 cups cooked farro* (1 cup per serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and line two sheet pans with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, toss cubed sweet potato with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on one half of a sheet pan. In the same bowl, toss the chickpeas with another tablespoon of oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them on the other half of the pan.
3. Toss the broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and spread evenly on the second sheet pan. Roast both pans in the oven for about 35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and golden.
4. While the vegetables are roasting, toss the kale with lemon juice. Sauté it over low heat in a pan until it just begins to wilt. Remove the kale and set it aside.
5. In the same pan, toast the pepitas and flax seed over low heat, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes.
6. To assemble, place 1 cup of cooked farro in each bowl. Top with roasted vegetables, chickpeas, sautéed kale, and toasted seeds. Finish with sliced avocado and serve immediately.

Notes

• You can substitute farro with quinoa, bulgur wheat, or your favorite whole grain.

Carrot Cake Smoothie

Protein-packed Carrot Cake Smoothie! Made with 2 whole carrots and many other wholesome ingredients it's healthy, satisfying, tastes like dessert, and contains 17 grams of plant protein!

Ingredients

• 1 medjool date (or 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave)
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced (about 1 cup or 120 grams)
• 1 frozen banana
• Heaping 1/3 cup (40 grams) rolled or old fashioned oats (gluten free if needed)
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) pineapple (canned, fresh, or frozen — or sub mango, orange, or apple)
• 1 tablespoon flax, chia, or hemp seeds (ground or whole)
• 1 tablespoon nut or seed butter (or raw pecans, walnuts, sunflower, or pumpkin seeds)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon
• Pinch of fine sea salt
• 3/4 cup (180 ml) milk of choice (soy milk adds extra protein)

Instructions

Start by removing the pit from your date and placing it in a mug or small bowl. Cover it with hot water and let it soak for a couple of minutes while you prep the rest of the ingredients. Even if you are using a high powered blender, soaking the date helps it blend more smoothly.

Add all the ingredients to your blender, including the soaked and drained date. Blend until completely smooth. Check the consistency and add more milk if needed. If you use frozen fruit, especially pineapple, you may need to add a bit more milk to thin it out.