A Word from Our Superintendent

Dear SUSD Students, Families, and Staff,

Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year! It is with great excitement and optimism that we begin a new year grounded in our theme: Greater Things Yet to Come. This theme reflects both our progress and our promise. It honors how far we have come as a district while looking ahead to the even greater opportunities we will create together for our students, families, and staff.

In SUSD, we continue to center our work on the belief that every student deserves a world-class education so they can reach the futures they desire and deserve supported by strong relationships, high expectations, and meaningful opportunities. Through our continued commitment to the Whole Child, Whole Family, Whole Community, we are building a system where students are seen, supported, and inspired to reach their fullest potential.

Over the past year, we have seen powerful evidence that our collective efforts are making a difference. One of the most important indicators of long-term student success early literacy, has shown significant growth. Our K–3 students have demonstrated notable gains in reading proficiency, with a continued increase in the number of students meeting or exceeding grade-level expectations. These early literacy gains are critical, as reading at grade level by third grade is a strong predictor of future academic success, graduation, and expanded life opportunities. This progress reflects the dedication of our teachers, the support of our families, and the resilience and hard work of our students.

As we move forward into this school year, we will continue building on this momentum and advancing our systemic transformation efforts. You will see our theme, Greater Things Yet to Come, reflected in our continued progress and key priorities:

• Continued increases in early literacy outcomes, ensuring all students build strong foundational reading skills by the end of third grade
• Sustained historically high graduation rates
• Expansion of Community Schools to deepen wraparound supports for students and families
• Ongoing investments in safe, secure, and welcoming learning environments including camera coverage and fencing projects
• Increased access to rigorous, engaging programs including Dual Enrollment, Career Technical Education, Visual and Performing Arts, and Ethnic Studies
• Continued improvements to our facilities through our Facilities Master Plan including improved science classrooms, renovated theaters, and portable replacements
• Expanded student supports, including mental health services, intervention programs, and school safety staff
• Strengthened communication and engagement with families and the community

These accomplishments and priorities are only possible because of the collective strength of our SUSD community. Our students, families, staff, and community partners each play an essential role in shaping a future filled with opportunity, achievement, and hope.

As we begin this new school year, we reaffirm our commitment to listening, learning, and leading together. We will continue to innovate, to elevate student voice, and to ensure that every student is prepared for college, career, and life, connected to their passions, interests, and talents.

The work ahead is important, and the possibilities are endless. Together, we believe that the best is not behind us, it is ahead of us. Greater Things Yet to Come.

 

Sincerely,

Dr. Michelle Rodriguez
Superintendent of Schools