Weekly communication from the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District.
Breaking News
MPUSD Celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month - From September 15 through October 15, MPUSD proudly celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the rich histories, cultures, traditions and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. This year’s theme, “Unidos, Somos Más” - “Together, We Are More,” beautifully reflects our MPUSD Way commitment that we're better togetherr. Join us as we celebrate the students, families, staff and community members whose cultures, voices and contributions enrich MPUSD every day. Read full story on our website.
Community School Coordinator Week - September 14 - 18 is Community School Coordinator Appreciation Week, and what better time to take a closer look at the important work our coordinators do each day. MPUSD is proud to have seven community school coordinators serving schools throughout our Seaside community, connecting students and families with resources, strengthening family engagement, and building partnerships that help students thrive. Recently, our coordinators came together at Ord Terrace Elementary School for a Community of Practice Learning Walk. Learn more about our coordinators and watch the work in action below.
Information of Interest
From MPUSD Residents to Teachers - Could this be you? Applications are now open for the 2027 - 2028 MPUSD Teacher Residency through Alder Graduate School of Education. Earn your master’s degree and teaching credential in one year while gaining hands-on experience alongside an MPUSD mentor teacher. The priority application deadline is October 9, 2026. Learn more and apply at aldergse.edu/apply. Participants may also receive:
$15,000 residency stipend
$5,000 Community Scholarship
$10,000 Golden State Grant
Afterschool Programming at MPUSD - Students participating in Expanded Learning Opportunities program are learning, creating and exploring through exciting enrichment opportunities. During a recent visit from Montage Health, students at our Crumpton Elementary School site learned about MyPlate, the five food groups and how healthy food choices can help fuel their growing bodies. Students were engaged, asking questions and having fun while learning about nutrition. They also kicked off our new Robotics Program with Sparkmakers! Offered every Wednesday throughout the school year, the program gives students hands-on opportunities to explore robotics, problem-solving, creativity and STEM skills. A big thank you to community partners Montage Health and Sparkmakers for these meaningful, hands-on learning experiences.
Hot Off the Reel
Reading is Key Initiative Continues at MPUSD - It’s National Literacy Month, and we’re stepping inside Clarissa Murillo’s first grade classroom at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School. Students are building their reading and writing skills through phonics instruction and her passion for helping every student become a confident reader shines through. Plus, she has a few helpful tips for parents to support literacy learning at home. Reading is Key is a districtwide literacy initiative that aims to ensure all students are reading at or above grade level by the end of third grade.
Board of Education
Board of Education Meeting- The Board of Education met this past week in the community at Marina High School. If you missed the meeting and want to know what actions the Board took, you may read Board Highlights or watch Spotlight on Board Highlights below.
Reminders
Coffee & Cars Open to the Entire Community - As a community school, our Central Coast High School invites the entire MPUSD community to its coffee and cars event on Monday, October 26 from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Support the school's student-run coffee shop, check out the car show, and check out the auto detailing competition.
UPDATED: Free Food for MPUSD Families - NOTE: The Ord Terrace Elementary School time has changed to 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. We are excited to share chef-prepared, take-home meals for MPUSD families. Visit one of four school sites on various days, including Central Coast High School, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School, Ord Terrace Elementary, and Seaside High School.
Upcoming MPUSD Events
Most events are linked to MPUSD's website to receive more information. You may also access the district's school year calendar here. (Event dates subject to change. Check with your school site and this section regularly.) 9.15.26 Board Policy Committee Meeting (subset of the Board of Education) 9.17.26 Monterey Child Development Center Back to School Night 9.22.26 Board of Education Meeting 10.5.26 Fall Break - No School 10.6.26 Fall Break - No School 10.7.26 Fall Break - No School 10.8.26 Fall Break - No School 10.9.26 Fall Break - No School 10.13.26 Board of Education Meeting 10.21.26 District English Learner Advisory Council 10.27.26 Board of Education Meeting
