Blackford Elementary School

District News

Updated Wed, Nov 13th

In the past two annual surveys, parents told us they wanted to receive more positive messages from the school about their child. Our teachers listened and are using our ParentSquare tools and other ideas to do just that!

In the first few months of this school year, teachers increased direct messages (DMs) by 17% district wide compared to the same period last year. Many schools are also sending “positive postcards” to families by mail, letting parents know about good things they notice about their students.

  • See answers to parents’ frequently asked questions here.
    ParentSquare FAQs  
  • Download the ParentSquare app.
Updated Wed, Nov 6th

New resources in our school libraries and online are the latest examples of our district’s commitment to fostering inclusivity, understanding, and support for all students. Thanks to the California State Superintendent's Anti Bias Education Grant, awarded to the Campbell Union School District in 2023, we’ve expanded our library resources to foster inclusion and a sense of belonging for all.  We want to honor students’ diverse cultures, heritage and perspectives as part of what enriches their learning experience.

“Our Anti-Bias Mission is to make time and space to continually challenge ourselves and invite others to identify and address barriers that impact our students and their communities,” said Dr. Pamela Cheng, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning. "This project is building community. It has helped our community liaisons and administrators connect with our newest families by using books to build a bridge between our school communities and home cultures."

The library websites will feature carefully curated books, articles, and digital tools that promote awareness of diversity and inclusion. One unique section celebrates special days from different cultures, showing how our shared values unite us, no matter our traditions, heroes, or holidays. See it online at our Celebrations and Values website.

We invite you to explore the resources available, and join us in creating a more inclusive and supportive school environment for everyone.

Updated Wed, Nov 13th

The dedicated community members who serve on our volunteer committees strengthen our district in many ways. These individuals, many of whom do not work in education, bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and an essential layer of transparency to district decision-making.

2 men talking and writing ideas on large white paper
Two Innovation Council members discuss what is
needed to prepare students for the future. 

For example, our Innovation Council, composed of district, business, and community leaders, closely examines workforce trends and student needs. Together, they discuss how we can enhance learning to ensure that our students are prepared for future success. This group was instrumental in developing our five Profile of a Graduate competenciesour commitment to preparing ALL students for their yet-to-be-defined workplace.

logo for school linked servicesCampus Collaboratives, formed through our School Linked Services partnership, connect local service agency representatives, civic and municipal leaders, and school administrators who work together to identify local needs and coordinate resources that benefit our students and families. 

The Citizens Oversight Committee, another crucial group, reviews expenditures tied to voter-approved bonds and parcel taxes, ensuring that funds are allocated as promised. Members serve two-year terms.

icon for Community BuildersMembers of the District English Language Acquisition Committee (DELAC) meet to advocate for students and support programs that enhance language learning, further enriching our educational community.

“Educating students to their highest potential is a big job, and one that we cannot do alone,” said Superintendent Shelly VIramontez. “These committees are invaluable to our schools, and we thank each member for their time and commitment to partnering with us to support student success.”

Updated Wed, Nov 13th
Campbell Union School District
BOARD MEMO
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE MEETING ON OCTOBER 17, 2024
To provide our community with timely and transparent information about actions taken at our Governing Board meetings, please enjoy our inaugural edition of Board Memo.
 
Principal Amy Vanderbosch presenting


Principal Amy Vanderbosch presenting


Marshall Lane Presents Plans for Addressing Learning Gaps for ELLs
Principal Amy Vanderbosch and Assistant Principal Michelle Beddo presented an overview of the school's continuous improvement work and how the work is aligned to the district's core values, pillars, and Local
Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) goals. The presentation was candid and focused on the strategies being used to address the learning gap among students who are English Language Learners (ELL).

Transparency and Progress in Student Achievement Data
Dr. Pamela Cheng, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, and Emalie McGinnis, Director of Data Analysis and Accountability, presented the district's 2024 CAASPP results, offering a yearly snapshot of student performance. Although overall data shows little change, key strategies like Common Formative Assessments (CFA) analyzed in the Professional Learning Communities (PLC) are allowing for more frequent and targeted response to address skill gaps. The district plans to expand these efforts across all schools. See the PDF of the slides or visit Board agenda Item 10.6.
 


Safe and Adaptive Infrastructure


Engaged Families and Communities


Good News from Independent Auditors
Independent auditors from Eide Bailly, Certified Public Accountants, commended the district’s prudent fiscal management and sound practices as they presented the financial and performance audit results for the 2023-24 fiscal year, Measure CC, Measure G, and Measure T.
See Budget web page, www.campbellusd.org/budget


Thank You, Donors!
  • $2,077 donated by Angel Island Immigration Foundation to Sherman Oaks for Angel Island field trip
  • $500 donated by Hong Liu to Marshall Lane for general school needs


Policy Updates
The Board unanimously approved updates to the policies in the Guide Sheet (PDF) found under Item 11.3 on the agenda. These revisions will be added to district’s online Policy Manual.


 
test
Next Meeting: November 14, 2024
Governing Board:
Danielle M.S. Cohen,
Chris Miller,
Richard Nguyen,
William Slade,
Michael Snyder
Superintendent
Dr. Shelly Viramontez
 
CampbellUSD’s Board Memo is published within one week of regular board meetings and does not represent officially approved meeting minutes. For official minutes, agendas, and other information about the governing Board, please visit our website. www.campbellusd.org/board
WE ARE LEARNERS. WE ARE COLLABORATORS. WE ARE COMMUNITY BUILDERS.
Updated Wed, Nov 13th

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of teachers, support staff, administrators, and community partners, Campbell Union School District (CUSD) is becoming a model district locally and nationally.

“When other districts seek our input and advice, it’s a clear sign we’re on the right path,” said Governing Board Member Michael Snyder.

Superintendent Dr. Shelly Viramontez and district leaders have been invited to speak at several conferences and legislative hearings, sharing CUSD’s progress on topics like educational equity, student wellness, community partnerships, and leadership.

Recent Speaking Engagements:

  • California legislative budget and education subcommittee hearings
  • UCSF: Reopening CA Schools Safely (Feb 2021)
  • CSBA Conference: Educational Equity (Dec 2022)
  • National Association of School Superintendents: Navigating Social Media (Feb 2023)
  • What’s Right in Education: Continuous Improvement (Oct 2023)

Key Accomplishments:

  • Golden Bell Award for Every Child a Reader
  • California Model SARB Award
  • Triple-A financial ratings from Moody’s and Fitch
  • Strong community partnerships

CUSD’s achievements continue to gain recognition, setting a positive example for districts nationwide. The CUSD is off to a strong start for the 2024-25 school year, and the Governing Board extends its gratitude to the staff, students, and families for their contributions to our success.

Updated Wed, Oct 30th

In response to feedback from parents and teachers, the AIM program was designed to offer hands-on, engaging experiences in art, innovation, and music for all K-5 students across the district throughout the school year. Middle school students can also enjoy AIM programs through lunchtime clubs and integrated opportunities.

While students enjoy learning from a skilled team of AIM specialists, their classroom teachers have time to review student progress data and collaborate on lessons targeted to support achievement at every level.

The program was created through the one-time Art & Music Block Grant funds, and we are able to sustain it through the new Proposition 28 Arts & Music funding. Parents can explore grade-specific examples on the AIM Blog.

Updated Wed, Oct 16th

Campbell Union School District is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all students and staff, from offering counseling and wellness support to managing crisis situations. 

Please watch this safety message from the Superintendent, Dr. Viramontez

Updated Wed, Oct 16th

Concerned about the impact of online bullying? You're not alone. Studies show that 55% of students have experienced some form of cyberbullying.

Join a LIVE virtual event hosted by SmartSocial and the Campbell Union Superintendent to learn strategies for reducing cyberbullying and promoting positive behaviors.

Smart Social is offering a $5 Starbucks gift card to those coming to the event to learn how to support your child, your school, and your community in navigating the dangers of cyberbullying.

What: “Combat Online Bullying: Supporting Positive Student Behaviors on Campus and at Home” Live, virtual events
When: Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024 at 4 p.m. (PT)
Where: Join online!

Secure your spot at this important event.
https://smartsocial.com/events?org=campbellusd

Updated Wed, Oct 16th

The week of October 7 through 11 is Parent–Teacher Conference Week across all CUSD schools—a valuable time for families and teachers to connect and discuss your child’s progress.

Whether your student is in elementary or middle school, these conferences provide an important opportunity for you to ask questions, share insights about your child’s strengths, and collaborate with the teacher to support their continued growth throughout the school year.

By working together, you and your child’s teacher can partner to ensure a successful and fulfilling school year for your student.

Updated Tue, Oct 8th

CUSD values student feedback in improving their school experience. When students suggested enhancements for school lunches, we listened: “More salad bar options,” “Reduce waste,” “Use less plastic,” “Healthier meals.” 

We’ve implemented many of these ideas, except when limited by costs or federal regulations.

“Sometimes, I think students expect school meals to taste like what they get at McDonald’s or KFC,” said Superintendent Shelly Viramontez. “That’s probably not going to happen since our meals are healthy and meet strict USDA dietary requirements that limit salt, sugar, and trans fats. Sellers of fast food and convenience snacks don’t have these restrictions.”

Each day, CUSD’s Child Nutrition team prepares 3,800 lunches, 2,000 breakfasts, and 650 after-school meals, many from scratch, in our Central Kitchen. Here are some of the requirements our meals must meet:

  • Milk: Only fat-free (skim) or low-fat, must be offered at every meal
  • Fruits: One cup daily, five cups weekly
  • Grains: 80% whole grain-rich, offered at every meal
  • Sodium: Breakfast under 540 mg, lunch under 1,110 mg
  • Trans Fat: Zero grams per serving

“Our goal is to provide healthy, tasty meals that support student success,” said Benny Calderon, Child Nutrition Department Manager.

Beyond the menu, students learn about nutrition through fun programs like Tasty Tastings, on-campus Farmer’s Markets, and cooking competitions.  We’ve also hosted menu option tastings to have students provide input on potential menu items.

In response to students’ requests to be more eco-friendly, the department increased its recycling efforts, and is taking additional steps to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability. By the end of September, all school lunch lines will offer compostable utensils, and by late October, large condiment dispensers will eliminate the need for individual condiment packets.

“Our students are our primary clients, and we value their input—not only about meals, but on all aspects of their school experience. While we may not be able to implement every suggestion, when possible, we do,” Viramontez said.