I am excited to share a new journey with our EUSD community this school year. While messages in the media don't always reflect the incredible reality of our public schools, we know the true story of EUSD lives in our classrooms. Over this year, I will be sharing a multi-part series celebrating the learning happening across our district, starting with Transitional Kindergarten and moving through 8th grade, with our Preschool program featured soon. Each week, we will highlight the dedicated teachers and programs shaping our students' experience, beginning with English-only TK, followed by Dual Language Processing (DLP) TK, and Special Education TK. Together, we are telling the story of who we are.
The beginning of school can be an exciting and sometimes overwhelming experience for our youngest learners. Luckily, in EUSD, our talented teachers are well-trained in developmentally appropriate practices that ease this transition. Before our four- and five-year-olds dive into play-based exploration, our Transitional Kindergarten (TK) teachers and paraprofessionals provide thoughtful direct instruction, setting the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
In Carmen Peralta’s TK classroom, students enjoy rich opportunities to express themselves through play grounded in core content knowledge. These hands-on experiences allow our youngest scholars to discover new concepts, build relationships, and practice independence.
During dramatic and pretend play, students step into real-world roles—even pretending to be the Superintendent! Immersed in these activities, they expand their language skills, build vocabulary, and practice early problem-solving. Learning these foundational skills through structured play in TK seamlessly prepares our students for Kindergarten and beyond.
Here are this week’s updates and reminders.
A Step Beyond for Eligible 3rd- and 4th-Grade Students
A Step Beyond (ASB) provides eligible students with 10 years of free programming and scholarship opportunities, including after-school dance classes, academic support, and social services. The program builds meaningful, lasting relationships with students and families, supporting them from 3rd grade through high school and beyond. From September 8 through September 18, A Step Beyond will visit EUSD classrooms to introduce eligible 3rd- and 4th-grade students to the program. Interested students are invited to Audition Day on Saturday, September 19, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Grape Day Park.
Foundation Fundraiser
Join the Escondido Education Foundation for an afternoon of fashion and fun at an upcoming fundraising event! “Height of Fashion” is scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, October 17, at Trinity Episcopal Church in the Old Escondido neighborhood. Get all the details and purchase tickets online. Tickets are $60 or $100 for a pair; delicious food and drinks are included. The all-volunteer Escondido Education Foundation spends countless hours supporting the innovative learning happening in our schools, particularly through the annual Dr. Mike Caston Innovation Awards. Fundraisers such as “Height of Fashion” help make these generous grant awards possible!
Nominate an Outstanding School Counselor!
Do you know an EUSD school counselor who goes above and beyond to help students feel supported, connected, and empowered? The San Diego County Office of Education is accepting nominations for the 2027 San Diego County School Counselors of the Year. The program recognizes exceptional elementary, middle, and high school counselors for their leadership, advocacy, empathy, and commitment to helping students thrive. Nominations are open through October 5, 2026. Take a few minutes to recognize an outstanding counselor making a difference for our students! Learn more and submit a nomination
Swim Lessons at the Escondido YMCA
Looking for a great way to help your child build confidence in the water? The Escondido YMCA is offering September swim lessons for children ages 3–12 in its heated pool. Certified instructors will help swimmers develop important water safety skills, confidence, and endurance. Lessons are offered on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 11:40 a.m., with options for preschool and school-age swimmers.
Even better, the YMCA has reduced swim lesson fees by approximately 40% to make this opportunity more affordable for local families, and scholarships are also available. Registration opened August 15, 2026. Check out the YMCA Aquatics Flyer for registration and additional information! (PDF) (Spanish Flyer PDF)
Firewater Expo – A Free Family Event!
EUSD families are invited to the annual Firewater Expo on Saturday, September 19, at Escondido Fire Station #4, 3301 Bear Valley Parkway, Kit Carson Park! Join our local Fire Department and Water District for a fun, family-friendly event featuring hands-on activities, demonstrations, and opportunities to learn more about fire safety, water conservation, and the important work of our local first responders and water professionals.
This FREE community event is a great opportunity for the whole family to learn, explore, and have some fun together. Check out the Water Fire EXPO flyer for full event details; we hope to see you there! (PDF) (Spanish Flyer PDF)
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, Superintendent of Schools