Beyond School Rankings: A More Holistic Approach to School Ratings

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.

For me, this season carries special meaning. I am preparing to help turn the tassels for my final class of RCSD graduates.

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.

Redwood City School District’s (RCSD) work helping families understand programs, access resources, and stay connected to their child’s education has earned statewide recognition. The district received four 2026 Excellence in Communications Awards from the California School Public Relations Association (CalSPRA), highlighting the impact of clear, accessible communication in strengthening trust and partnership across the community.

Kennedy Middle School and North Star Academy students had an impressive showing at the Bay Area Regional Science Olympiad this month at the College of San Mateo, highlighting Redwood City School District’s (RCSD) commitment to real-world application of student learning.

Redwood City School District’s February 2026 mid-year LCAP update highlights encouraging progress toward its 2027 goals, including improved attendance, reduced suspensions, strong student growth in reading and mathematics on local assessments, and continued gains for English Learners. The update also identifies areas for focused acceleration as the district continues strengthening supports and instructional practices to close equity gaps.

The RCSD Board of Trustees voted to place a parcel tax measure on the June 2, 2026 ballot. If approved by voters, the measure would generate an estimated $12.2 million annually through a tax based on building square footage, with exemptions for eligible seniors and individuals with disabilities. Voters within the district will decide the outcome in June.

Maizha Mendoza received the Elementary Education Specialist Award from San Mateo County SELPA, which supports improved outcomes for students and the effective delivery of special education services across San Mateo County public schools. 

Cristina Ryffel, school librarian at Orion Alternative, was named the recipient of the California School Library Association’s “I Love My Classified Library Staff Award.” The award honors classified library staff whose work strengthens school communities and supports student learning.

Superintendent Dr. John Baker and Incoming Superintendent Dr. Christian J. Rubalcaba express gratitude for families’ continued trust and partnership while outlining a thoughtful leadership transition ahead of July 1. They emphasize continuity for students and staff, highlight Dr. Rubalcaba’s relationship-centered leadership style and experience in inclusive and community-based education, and invite families to participate in upcoming opportunities to connect, listen, and help shape the district’s future together.