Welcome to New Ways November!

This month, we’re invited to step outside our comfort zones and explore new ways to grow, connect, and care for ourselves and others. Whether it’s trying a different route to work, learning a new skill, or simply seeing an old challenge with fresh eyes, small changes can open big possibilities. Let’s use this month to stay curious, embrace creativity, and remind ourselves that every new beginning is a chance to rediscover joy.

Click here to download and print the calendar.

Staff Spotlight: SLUSD's Efrain Ortiz and Daniel Franco Gomez

This month, we’re shining the spotlight on two behind-the-scenes heroes who keep our district running smoothly: Efrain Ortiz, District Carpenter, and Daniel Franco Gomez, Craft Maintenance Helper.

Colleagues describe Efrain and Daniel as “hardworking, friendly, and able to handle any situation with grace.” Another shared, “They’re the kind of teammates who make everything work seamlessly and always with a smile.”

Together, this dynamic duo brings creativity, teamwork, and good humor to every task. They can repair almost anything and often handcraft clever solutions to challenges that seem impossible. With their bottomless tool kit and even bigger hearts, Efrain and Daniel make our district better every day.

Thank you, Efrain and Daniel, for your dedication, skill, and positivity!

We love celebrating the people who make SLUSD shine—and we need your help! Do you know a staff member who consistently goes above and beyond, bringing positivity to their school or department? Submit a shoutout here and we’ll feature them in an upcoming newsletter. It’s time to give our everyday stars the spotlight they deserve!

25 reasons to use your EAP benefits

Through our Claremont Employee Assistance Program, you and your family have access to free, confidential support for life’s challenges—big or small. You can connect with a licensed counselor (in person or by video), access 24/7 emotional support through an AI chatbot, and explore online tools to manage stress and build resilience. Claremont also offers free legal and financial consultations, childcare and elder care referrals, and over 120 personal growth webinars. Call 800-834-3773 or visit claremonteap.com to get started anytime.

November 13 is World Kindness Day

How short mindfulness practices can help you get through the workday

Five-minute mindfulness practices helped students in the Mindfulness and Resilience to Stress at Work course feel more focused, calm, and kind. Read more here.

November is National Diabetes Month

Five unexpected benefits of walking backwards

Did you know that simply trying a few minutes of backward walking can bring some surprising health benefits? According to the Cleveland Clinic, walking backward can strengthen different muscle groups, burn more calories, improve posture by encouraging an upright stance, give your brain a bit more of a workout, and even help with joint health when done safely. If you’re up for a new way to move, mix in short bursts of backward walking on a smooth path or even a slow treadmill, and you might just feel the difference. Read more here.

How relationships feed your brain

Did you know your brain is wired to thrive on human connection? Research shows that relationships don’t just make us feel good; they literally nourish our brains, boosting our mood, reducing stress, and strengthening our resilience. Read more here.

November is National Healthy Skin Month

November is the time to emphasize the importance of skincare and raise awareness about maintaining radiant, well-nourished skin. As temperatures drop and humidity levels decrease, it's a perfect opportunity to explore the best practices for protecting and rejuvenating your skin. Whether using moisturizers and sunscreen or adopting a skincare routine, this month encourages everyone to prioritize the health of their skin, promoting a glowing and vibrant complexion all year long. Read about 7 tips to adopt this November for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair, and nails here!

Why Movement Matters So Much

Physical activity can help preserve and improve your cognitive function and fend off dementia, stroke and other health concerns. Read more here.

SLUSD Pet of the Month: Penny Santillan

Our own Jazmin Santillan, Information Data Specialist in the Technology Department, and her husband Anthony have a brand new furbaby — Penny!

At almost three months old, Penny is all puppy energy and pure joy. She loves chasing her fursister KoKo, snuggling up for naps, and giving endless kisses. We’re paws-itively thrilled to welcome Penny to the SLUSD family!

Do you know an adorable SLUSD pet that deserves some virtual ear scratches and tail wags? Send to communications@slusd.us and share the love!

Baked Apple Cider Donuts

These tender, cinnamon-spiced apple cider donuts are baked instead of fried and made without yeast, so they’re easy and quick to make.

Ingredients

For the donuts:

• 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (100 g) packed brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cardamom
• 1½ cups (355 mL) apple cider
• ⅓ cup (80 g) unsweetened applesauce
• ⅓ cup (75 g) melted vegan butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the cinnamon sugar topping:

• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3 Tbsp (45 g) melted vegan butter

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan with oil or nonstick spray.
2. Reduce the apple cider (optional but recommended): In a small saucepan, simmer apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to about ¾ cup. This concentrates the flavor. Let it cool slightly before using.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cardamom.
4. In another bowl, whisk the reduced apple cider, applesauce, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently fold until just combined. Do not overmix—the batter should be slightly thick.
6. Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
7. Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into a donut comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
8. In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon. Brush each warm donut with melted butter and roll in the cinnamon sugar until coated.

Servings

1. Makes 12 donuts (about 250 calories each).

Vegan butternut squash soup

This Vegan Butternut Squash Soup is colorful, warm, and full of nutrients! Serve it with crusty gluten-free bread for a comfort food meal at its best.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (12 oz / 330 g) peeled and chopped butternut squash
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced (about ½ cup)
• 1 Tbsp light olive oil
• Pinch of sea salt
• 1 Tbsp unsalted or plant-based butter
• 1 cup chopped onion (about ½ large onion)
• 1½–2 tsp minced garlic (2 cloves)
• 1 celery stick, chopped
• 1 tsp dried thyme or leaves from 2 fresh sprigs
• 1 medium heirloom tomato or Fuyu persimmon, peeled and diced (about ½ cup)
• 2½ cups vegetable broth (use less for a thicker soup)
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ⅛–¼ tsp allspice or nutmeg, to taste
• Pinch of cayenne, to taste
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 cup coconut milk or light coconut milk
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Optional toppings: toasted nuts or seeds, roasted chickpeas, fresh herbs

Instructions

1. Roast the vegetables: Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss squash and carrot with olive oil and sea salt. Spread on a foil-lined baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, until tender.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, celery, and thyme. Cook for about 2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the tomato or persimmon and cook another 5 minutes.
3. Add broth and spices: Stir in the vegetable broth, cumin, allspice (or nutmeg), cayenne, and salt. Bring to a light boil, then reduce to low and simmer for 5 minutes, until slightly thickened.
4. Blend until smooth: Add the roasted squash and carrot to the pot. Blend the soup (using a blender or immersion blender) until creamy and smooth.
5. Finish and serve: Return to the pot, stir in coconut milk and pepper, and simmer on low for 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.