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.

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

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.

Campbell Union School District (CUSD) is making strides in supporting a growing number of "newcomer students"—those who are new to the country and the U.S. school system—who enroll in our schools. In response to this trend, CUSD, under the direction of the Governing Board, launched several initiatives to foster a welcoming and supportive environment for these students and their families.  

“Our new students, many from Latin America and Southeast Asia, often have strong educational backgrounds but lack English language skills,” said Campbell Union School District Board President Danielle Cohen.

Student reads lesson translated into Tagalog.

“It’s a unique challenge: they are educated but not proficient in English, making integration into our schools difficult. By improving access to lesson content and building a strong sense of community for them and their families, the District is helping these students succeed academically and setting the stage for a bright future in their new home.” 

Leading these efforts is Denise Kilpatrick, the district’s Coordinator of English Language Development (ELD) Programs. Under her guidance, the school district introduced specialized newcomer resources to help students acclimate socially and academically. One of the standout initiatives was a pilot program at a middle school.

“Last year, we piloted a program at a middle school, which provided dedicated newcomer support,” Kilpatrick explained. “The teacher in charge built strong relationships with students and their families, while collaborating with other teachers to provide necessary resources. Due to its success, we’ve expanded this support across the district.”

Program Expands

In January 2024, to support teachers with newcomer students in their classrooms, the school district assigned two full-time ELD specialists to work across four schools. These specialists provided instruction and resources for newcomer students and their families, to equip the entire family for success. Community liaisons also play a pivotal role in the district’s support network, linking families with vital resources and organizing family connection events.

“We are formalizing the support systems we used last year and ensuring that teachers are ready to help newcomers, regardless of when they arrive or their current skill level,” said Cohen.

Technology Supports Language Access

Technology is also playing a key role in these efforts. Through a loaner iPad program, CUSD ensures that students have access to educational and informational apps that ease their transition into the U.S. school system. Additionally, parents can use the iPads to access community services, take English language classes, and more, helping them establish a support network for their families.

By placing the needs of newcomer students and their families at the forefront, CUSD is fulfilling its mission to create an inclusive environment where all students can thrive.

“With the right support early on, these students will need fewer resources over time. Just as we do with our focus on TK and Kindergarten readiness, addressing newcomers’ needs early helps them acclimate and integrate into the community more quickly,” Cohen added.

“Our goal is to ensure that every newcomer feels embraced and supported from the moment they step into our district,” said Kilpatrick. “Students can only succeed when they feel safe, and we are committed to providing that environment for all of our students.”

As the district moves forward, the success and expansion of the newcomer program will continue to depend on the needs of the community. One thing is clear: CUSD is dedicated to creating a welcoming space for all students, regardless of where they come from or what challenges they face.