September 15, 2026

 

KEEPING YOU CONNECTED

Take a look at some of the latest news, highlights and updates from across Rowland Unified School District, including student achievements, district news, and upcoming events.


In this issue:

  • Nogales Fine Arts & Aquatics Center Opening
  • Music for All Program
  • Jellick Elementary Jaguars present at ISTE
  • School Spotlight on Blandford Elementary
  • Varsity Home Game Schedule
  • Upcoming College and Career Fair
 
 

DIVING INTO THE FUTURE

of Arts & Athletics

Nogales High School Celebrates New Fine Arts & Aquatics Center

 
 

A new chapter for Nogales High School began this August with the opening of its Fine Arts & Aquatics Center, providing students and the community expanded spaces for athletics, academics, music and the arts. The $36 million project was funded by Measure R, approved by more than two-thirds of voters in 2012.

“All of us are grateful for the community, which stepped up its commitment to education by approving the bond measures that provided the financial resources needed for this and many other school improvement projects,” said Rowland Unified School District Superintendent Alejandro Flores. “We truly want to thank everyone for their continued support for the District, and more importantly, our students.”


The new energy-efficient Aquatics Center features a 14-lane pool for water polo, swimming competitions, physical education and community swim classes, along with larger locker rooms, classrooms, coaching offices and spectator seating.



The adjoining Fine Arts Center expands opportunities for Nogales’ music and arts programs with larger Band and Choir rooms, music storage and rehearsal spaces. The new second-floor Nobles Pride Room overlooks the playfields and central quad and provides additional space for dance, aerobics and school and community events. 



THE SOUNDS OF SUCCESS

A Commitment to the Arts & MUSIC FOR ALL

Music is part of the school day for every RUSD student in grades 1–6. Through the District’s Music for All program, students receive weekly music instruction from credentialed music teachers and can explore general music, strings, and band. This year, more than 900 students received District-provided instruments, including violins, violas, cellos, flutes, trumpets, saxophones, clarinets and trombones.

 

“Rowland is proud to ensure that all students have the opportunity to explore the different areas of music,” said Dr. Celia Munguia, Director of Elementary Education (Strong Start, Preschool–Grade 3). “Whether it’s General Music, Strings or Band, each program offers a unique and meaningful learning experience.”



As students discover the musical experience that interests them most, they also build confidence, creativity and skills they can carry with them beyond the classroom. The District also provides the stage for students interested in showcasing their talents. 

Visit www.rowlandschools.org to learn about this program and our RUSD Performing Arts Center.

 

JELLICK JAGUARS

GO GLOBAL 

Jellick Elementary Jaguars took their student newscast, JJTV, to the international spotlight this summer, presenting at the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Conference in Orlando, Florida. The conference brought together more than 15,000 educators from all 50 states and 86 countries.



“It is such a wonderful experience for our students to not only share their creative projects at such a largely attended conference, but to also communicate with educators from across the globe,” said Jellick teacher Nancy Buck, who traveled with students alongside teacher Deborah Park. The students realize not everyone has access to the same programs they do, and that the creative projects they’ve worked on are unique.

This marks the fifth time Jellick Jaguars have presented at ISTE, following previous presentations in New Orleans, Philadelphia, Denver and San Antonio.


The team also enjoyed visiting the EXPO HALL where they met many of the hard-working people behind the scenes of their education companies.


Representatives from companies such as Clever, Padlet, WeVideo, BrainPop, EPIC, LineWize, Prodigy, and ParentSquare were excited to meet the Jaguars and hear how they use their platforms back at school.



This year’s student team included Sienna (kindergarten), Ethan (5th grade) and Carol (6th grade). The event allowed Jaguars to showcase JJTV, explore new education technology and connect with educators from around the world.

To see what all the buzz is about, check out the JJTV YouTube channel.

BLANDFORD

ELEMENTARY

The Blandford Bears brought their school spirit to the August 20 Board of Education meeting, filling the Board Room and congratulating the people who make their school community special.


The Board also recognized Blandford PTA President Karina Jimenez for her outstanding volunteer service, with Principal Marci Chavez sharing in the celebration.

Watch the Board Meeting & Presentations 

 

GAME

ON!



Check Out the Upcoming Varsity Home Games and Support Our Student Athletes.


Game times may change on a weekly basis due to weather conditions. Schools monitor the Wetbulb Globe temperature (WBGI) and must adjust athletic activity based on specific conditions.


For the latest athletics news follow on Instagram @RowlandUSDAthletics

 

START THE NEXT STEP

Toward Your Successful Future

High school is a great time to start thinking about a career and life after graduation.


Join us at our College & Career Fair, where students and families can explore options ranging from universities and community colleges to career and technical education, private colleges, and military service, and connect with representatives to learn what each path offers.

 

Tuesday, Sep. 15, 2026

5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.


Rowland High School

2000 S. Otterbein Ave.

 

All students in grades 9-12 and their families are invited to attend. 

Learn more details about the College & Career Fair.

Proud to Serve Our Communities of City of Industry, La Puente, Rowland Heights, Walnut & West Covina

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September 15, 2026, Issue | Contact: gward@rowlandschools.org

www.RowlandSchools.org