Building Belonging: RCSD Expands Social Emotional Learning

During the October 16 Board Study Session, the Board of Trustees presented three conceptual scenarios outlining possible approaches for implementing Measure S projects identified in the Facilities Master Plan (FMP). 

The presentation highlighted the deep partnership among RCSD, Stanford University’s Graduate School of Education’s John W. Gardner Center for Youth and Their Communities, and Stanford Psychiatry’s Center for Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing. Together, these partners have developed a model that strengthens school-based mental health systems, improves coordination of care, and ensures that students and families have equitable access to the support they need.

The 2025 ceremony highlighted the district’s commitment to fostering multilingual excellence and empowering students to reach their full potential.

Regular attendance sets students up for success, ensuring students stay on track in their courses and build the habits necessary for the rigor of high school and beyond. Even a few missed days can disrupt learning and make it harder for students to feel caught up and confident in class

This fall, we have been working with a district committee made up of parents, teachers, administrators, and union representatives to provide feedback and perspective on this important work. This process is about ensuring that, even as we make necessary budget reductions, our priorities remain centered on what matters most—supporting every student’s success.

This award recognizes RCSD’s trauma-informed, student-centered approach that helps students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. Counseling Services play an important role in meeting RCSD’s LCAP Goal One to Strengthen Social Emotional Support and School Climate by working to ensure that every student feels supported, safe, and connected at school.

Social Emotional Learning, known as S-E-L, teaches students strategies to manage stress, build resilience, and strengthen relationships. This year, five more schools launched Wayfinder, a Stanford-developed program that helps children build purpose, adaptability, and confidence.

Chronic absenteeism means missing 10% or more of school days, and it adds up quickly—even when the absences are excused. Doctor’s appointments, family celebrations, and vacations all matter, but if they happen during the school day, they still count toward a student being chronically absent and thus lost instructional time. 

The School Board approved two contracts that move forward permanent HVAC upgrades scheduled for summer 2026.

A child’s school journey begins the moment they step into the classroom, and showing up every day helps set them up for success now and in the future.

For more than four decades, it has been my honor to serve the children and families of Redwood City. Together, we have walked through both victories and challenges, always centering our work on what is best for students. From strengthening our academic programs, to expanding wellness supports, to modernizing our schools for future generations, I have seen how much can be accomplished when a community believes in its children. 

This year, our focus remains on creating joyful, rigorous, and inclusive learning environments where all students thrive. None of this would be possible without our incredible teachers and staff, our engaged families, and our supportive community. Thank you for standing with us as we move forward—intentionally and together.

These new leaders will guide and support their school communities while advancing RCSD’s mission of creating safe and supportive, inspirational and rigorous, joyful and inclusive environments for all learners.

Three RCSD schools are topping the charts in this year’s Bay Area Parent “Family Favorites” Awards. 

The School Board approved the next phase of permanent air conditioning upgrades—this time at Clifford, Kennedy, and Orion Alternative schools. Construction is set for summer 2026. The upgrades are funded by Measure S, thanks to Redwood City voters.

Policy 5131.8: Mobile Communication Devices, adopted at the Board’s June 25 meeting, encourages healthy boundaries with technology while preserving access in situations where devices are necessary for safety, health, or learning.

North Star Academy is earning fresh praise from California’s and San Mateo County’s top education leaders. State Superintendent Tony Thurmond and San Mateo County Superintendent Nancy Magee publicly recognized the school this year for its continued academic excellence as a 2025 California Distinguished School. 

These awards highlight RCSD’s commitment to transparency, family partnership, and keeping our community connected to the organization’s strategic work. 

The School Board has approved a $151 million budget for the 2025–26 school year that invests in classroom instruction, student support, and competitive pay. With revenues near $149 million, the district will use savings from prior years, known as the ending fund balance, to maintain programs for 2025–26. As student enrollment keeps declining, RCSD plans to adjust services to match the reality of a smaller student population. Leaders say this careful planning will keep finances strong.

The plan charts the course for improving classrooms, infrastructure, and learning spaces across RCSD—identifying more than $819 million in needed repairs, upgrades, modernization, and construction over the next 8 to 10 years.