Superintendent's Message: December 2025: Presence, Partnership, and Learning

Superintendent Dr. Rubalcaba welcomes the RCSD community to the 2026–27 school year and shares his  All In for Kids leadership philosophy, emphasizing a shared commitment to putting students at the center of every decision. He reflects on his first months listening and learning across RCSD, invites the community to participate in his 90-Day Entry Plan, celebrates the accomplishments highlighted in the Our Year Together Community Report, and outlines priorities focused on academic growth, instructional leadership, equity, and long-term fiscal health.

As I retire, I do so with tremendous gratitude and confidence in the future of this district. RCSD is filled with caring people, talented educators, dedicated staff, and extraordinary students. The future is bright because of all of you.

RCSD received five national awards recognizing district efforts to support family engagement, student success, and major milestones during the 2025-26 school year. The honors highlight communication projects that helped families navigate attendance, celebrate student achievement, stay informed during a superintendent transition, and access information in multiple formats.

RCSD celebrates members of the Class of 2026 from Hoover and Kennedy school who earned the Biliteracy Attainment Recognition in Mandarin and Spanish. This achievement reflects students’ dedication to multilingual learning and supports RCSD’s commitment to preparing students to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world.

More than 30 RCSD teachers reached important milestones this spring through the district’s Teacher Induction Program, including 22 teachers who completed the program and earned eligibility for a clear teaching credential. Through mentorship, reflection, and professional learning, the program supports new educators in strengthening instructional practices and creating inclusive classroom environments that support student success.

Redwood City School District honored 26 retiring employees this spring, celebrating a combined 576 years of service to students, families, and schools. This year’s retirees include Superintendent Dr. John Baker, whose more than four decades serving RCSD students have left a lasting impact on the district and community.

Students from Orion Alternative and Kennedy Middle were recognized with the 2026 San Mateo County API Heroes Legacy Award during the San Mateo County Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Dinner. Their performances celebrated AAPI Heritage Month while highlighting the power of student voice, cultural pride, and community connection.

Superintendent Dr. John Baker was honored during the 2026 San Mateo County School Boards Association Kent Awards Celebration for more than four decades of service to students, families, schools, and public education. The surprise recognition celebrated his lasting impact on RCSD and his decade of leadership as superintendent.

Redwood City School District’s Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) has been recognized with a Kent Award and an Exemplary Program distinction for its whole-child approach to supporting students beyond the school day. Serving more than 2,200 students daily, the program provides academic support, enrichment, mentorship, and wellness opportunities designed to help students feel connected, supported, and engaged.

RCSD is moving forward with the next phase of classroom HVAC upgrades at Henry Ford and Roy Cloud schools. Building on earlier work already completed or underway, this phase continues the district’s effort to improve classroom comfort and air quality. Construction is expected in Summer 2027 through Measure S funding.

As the Class of 2026 prepares to graduate, Superintendent John Baker marks a meaningful milestone as he participates in his final promotion and graduation ceremonies before retirement. In his message, he reflects on the accomplishments of RCSD students, celebrates their bright futures, and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community throughout his career.

Redwood City School District students earned top honors at the CLTAC Mandarin Chinese Speech Contest, demonstrating strong language proficiency, confidence, and cultural understanding. With 13 students recognized across elementary and middle school levels, these results highlight the strength of RCSD’s multilingual programs and students’ ability to apply their learning in real-world settings.

Roosevelt Elementary School’s library has been transformed through a partnership with Access Books Bay Area, bringing more than 1,200 new books and a refreshed, student-friendly space to campus. Supported by 60 volunteers, the revitalization expands access to high-quality reading materials and creates an engaging environment that inspires students to explore, learn, and build a love of reading.

District students, teachers, and staff earned countywide recognition for efforts that “drive sustainable transformation across San Mateo County.” 

RCSD has released the graduation and promotion schedule for the Class of 2026, as nearly 700 eighth-grade students prepare to complete their PreK–8 journey and transition to high school. Ceremonies will take place June 4–5 across school sites, with additional celebrations for nearly 350 fifth graders promoting to middle school.

Adelante Selby Spanish Immersion School Principal Patricia Alcocer has been named Principal of the Year by Acknowledge Alliance, recognizing her leadership in building inclusive, student-centered school environments. Her work reflects a strong commitment to bilingual education, equity, and fostering meaningful connections that support student success and well-being.

Princess Margaret G. Paz, 7th-grade science teacher at Kennedy Middle School, who was awarded a scholarship to attend the 2025 conference hosted by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) in Minneapolis. She represented Kennedy and RCSD on a national stage, leading multiple presentations and sharing her work with educators from across the country.

Redwood City School District is beginning the next phase of its Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) work by reviewing and refining goals for the 2026–27 school year. Building on recent progress—including improved attendance, reduced suspensions, strong academic growth, and gains for English Learners—the district is now engaging families, staff, and students to help guide future priorities. Community input gathered through surveys and meetings will play a key role in shaping the next LCAP cycle and ensuring continued focus on equity and student success.

RCSD’s 2025 School Accountability Report Cards (SARCs) are now available, providing families with important information about each school’s programs, staffing, safety, and student demographics. The reports are required by state and federal law and are accessible online in English and Spanish, with printed copies available upon request.

RCSD’s Second Interim Budget Report provides a required midyear update on the district’s finances as of January 31, 2026. The report shows projected revenues of $158.1 million and expenditures of $159.8 million, resulting in a planned $1.7 million deficit covered by reserves. The district maintains a Positive Certification and reserves above state-required levels.