Dear Families,
As I begin connecting with you in this new role, I want to start by thanking Dr. Ibarra for his incredible leadership and the strong foundation he has built here in the Escondido Union School District. I know I’m stepping into some big shoes, but also into a community that cares deeply about its students and families, and for that, I am truly grateful.
I am excited to take my experience here in EUSD to a new level and to be working in partnership with you. In the time I’ve spent visiting schools and connecting with the community, I’ve already seen what makes this district so special: it’s the people. The care, support, and commitment to student success are evident everywhere.
As we head into the final stretch of the school year, I look forward to continuing to listen, learn, and connect, visiting school sites, meeting families, and seeing the great work happening across our district.
Thank you for the warm welcome. I am excited about what’s ahead and about working together in support of every EUSD student.
Here are this week’s updates and reminders.
2026-27 Before and After School Program (BASP) Interest Form Is Now Open!
The Expanded Learning Program opened the 2026-27 Before- and After-School Program Interest Form on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. An email with details and a link to the form was sent to all current EUSD families. The form was also posted on our website, so families of incoming or new students may also express their interest. Please note that enrollment is not first-come, first-served. Our programs are funded through the California Department of Education (CDE), and priority enrollment will be given to foster/homeless youth, students eligible for free or reduced price meals, and English learners. If interest exceeds space available, a lottery will be conducted. While the interest form will remain open throughout the 2026-27 school year, the first round of applications will be reviewed in May. The deadline for form submission to be considered for Round 1 is Friday, May 8, 2026.
Upcoming EUSD smART Festival
Mark your calendars for the 14th Annual smART Festival on Saturday, May 2, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido. This year’s theme, "EUSD Grows Creativity," celebrates our students’ artistic journeys as their work is displayed in the Center’s Museum alongside professional artists and performed on the Center Theatre stage. Whether your student is a featured artist or simply enjoys the visual and performing arts, we invite all families to join us for a day of inspiration, including hands-on activities for everyone. We can’t wait to see our community flourish through the arts!
CAASPP Testing
Beginning the week of April 20, 3rd- through 8th-grade students will start taking the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress, or CAASPP tests.
The CAASPP is a computer-based assessment that will measure students' progress in English language arts and math. Additionally, students in Grades 5 and 8 are required to take a science assessment. Each school has developed its own testing schedule. The testing window will be open through May 22.
While a good night’s rest, a healthy breakfast, and encouragement to do their best are always important for students, please take a moment to ensure these steps happen on testing days.
The CAASPP is designed to promote high-quality teaching and learning by giving information to teachers, students, and their families about what students know and can do. For complete details, view the official CAASPP notification here.
Physical Fitness Test - Grades 5 and 7
Beginning the week of April 14, 5th and 7th-grade students started taking the state-required Physical Fitness Test, also called the PFT. The main goal of the PFT is to help students start lifelong habits of regular physical activity. For complete details, view the official PFT notification here.
Celebrating STEM Challenge Day 2026!
Our annual STEM Challenge Day was a resounding success, featuring nearly 180 students competing in science, technology, engineering, and math. Following nine weeks of diligent training, 5th and 8th-grade teams showcased their skills in complex math and science tasks, as well as high-stakes engineering challenges like Tower Defense, Formula Tech, Drone Sports, and STEM Boats.
We are incredibly proud of the teamwork and problem-solving demonstrated by every student. Special thanks to our coaches, the EUSD Teachers on Special Assignment, and our partners at Treobytes for making this event possible.
Congratulations to our 2026 Winners!
Math & Science Category Winners:
5th Grade Emerald Cohort: 1st: L. R. Green, 2nd: Bernardo, 3rd: Reidy Creek
5th Grade Ruby Cohort: 1st: Rose, 2nd: Glen View, 3rd: Conway
5th Grade Sapphire Cohort: 1st: Quantum, 2nd: Rock Springs, 3rd: Farr
8th Grade Diamond Cohort: 1st: Quantum, 2nd: Bear Valley, 3rd: Rincon
Engineering Category Winners:
Tower Defense: 1st: Del Dios, 2nd: Quantum, 3rd: Hidden Valley
Formula Tech: 1st: N. Broadway, 2nd:Conway, 3rd: Rose
Drone Sports: 1st: Quantum, 2nd: Farr, 3rd: Felicita
STEM Boats: 1st: Reidy Creek, 2nd: L. R. Green, 3rd: Pioneer
Resources for Food Assistance
We want to make sure families are aware of local resources that offer free food and support for those who may need it. Here are a few options available in our community:
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need help connecting with these resources.
Breakfast and Lunch Menus:
All EUSD students have access to no-cost breakfast and lunch. Families can view our new online menus. Select your school and menu to see what is being served every day.
– Andy McGuire, Incoming Superintendent of Schools