TTUSD District Update

A Message from Superintendent Kramer
Strategic Plan Check-In

Halfway There & Moving Forward!

Academic Achievement

California School Dashboard | Successes and Opportunities
Find the Perfect Fit | Elementary Preview Nights
Measure AA | Your Support in Action
Academic Achievement | Help Your Child Thrive through Partnership

Support Systems

Celebrating Our School Board Trustees
North Tahoe School Showcase | Leading with Heart and Connection
A Spotlight on Tahoe Lake Elementary | Growing Hearts, Growing Minds
New Year, New Habits
Wellness Today | Optimism Breeds Resilience

Community Connections

Help Us Plan for a Safer Future | Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Breathing Easier | New Stock Albuterol Program
TNT Tech Teens | A "VIP Pass" to Local Career Paths
Upcoming Important Dates

Dear TTUSD Families,

As we settle into the second half of the school year, I’ve been reflecting on the dedication that defines our district. Whether we’re celebrating academic milestones or navigating complex state requirements, our focus remains on the success and well-being of our students.

I am thrilled to congratulate North Tahoe High School and Truckee High School for their recent recognition on the College Board’s AP School Honor Roll! North Tahoe High achieved Gold status, and Truckee High earned Bronze status. This recognition is a testament to the hard work of our students and the dedicated schoolwide effort by our teachers and counselors to make Advanced Placement access a priority. It’s a proud moment for our community to see our academic excellence recognized on a national level.

While we celebrate these wins, we are also working through several complex issues together. Regarding our current athletics transition, we want to ensure you feel heard and informed. To increase transparency, the Board has added a standing athletics agenda item at the beginning of every board meeting until the situation is resolved, and a new Athletics Question Submission Form to ensure your questions are included in our board meeting presentations.

You also recently received a message regarding SB 98, a new state law about immigration enforcement notifications. While the likelihood of such activity on our campuses remains very low, we shared our communication plan, so you know exactly how we will provide accurate information if needed. Please know that our "Safe Places" commitment stands firm: every student has a right to a free public education, and their safety, privacy, and sense of belonging are our highest priorities while in our care.

Navigating these challenges requires immense dedication. Since January is School Board Appreciation Month, I want to end with a moment of gratitude for the difficult work our Trustees do. As volunteers, they spend countless hours ensuring our district remains stable and focused on student needs. I am incredibly grateful for their leadership on behalf of our community.

Sincerely,

Kerstin Kramer

Superintendent Chief Learning Officer

Can you believe we’ve already reached the halfway mark of the school year? At our January 21 Board Meeting, Superintendent Kramer shared a mid-year check-in on our district’s Strategic Plan. This plan is our collective roadmap—built with your input—to ensure every student thrives.

We are proud to share that 15 of our 16 major actions for the year are currently on track or successfully completed. Each month in this section, we provide updates on these specific goals. Our progress chart (below) uses a color-coded system: Green means the action is on a path for success, Orange indicates work has started, but key steps remain, and Red signals a project hasn't launched or requires a shift.

Superintendent Kramer highlighted the momentum we're seeing in our classrooms, specifically regarding our efforts to elevate the classroom experience. We’ve seen strong momentum with our new math curriculum and the launch of Satchel Pulse in our first year. In classrooms, teachers are blending English Language Development (ELD) strategies into math lessons—a "Tier 1" practice that breaks down complex academic language to make learning clearer for all students. Meanwhile, our new Satchel Pulse tool provides real-time social-emotional data, helping teachers provide more personalized support and lessons.

This progress is a team effort. Thank you for helping us stay the course as we head into the spring!

The state recently released the 2024-2025 California School Dashboard, an online tool that reports on performance areas like academics, attendance, and graduation rates. It uses a color-coded system (red to blue) that primarily tracks progress or change from the previous year. Because the focus is on growth, a "red" or "orange" rating can occur even when our district's overall performance stays well above state averages.

Points of Pride: Academic Success

We are proud of our progress this year and remain committed to continuous improvement. Key highlights include:

English Language Arts: Scores increased by 4.6 points, putting us 23.7 points above state standards.
Mathematics: We saw a 7.1-point increase during our first year with a new curriculum—a testament to the hard work of our students and teachers.
Graduation Rate: We achieved a Blue rating (the highest possible) with a 95.4% graduation rate.
College & Career Readiness: We saw a 2.7% increase and remain nearly 9 points above the state average.

Areas for Growth and Improvement

Attendance

Our Chronic Absenteeism status is currently "red" (13.8%). While this is partly due to changes in how we track excused absences and independent studies, we take this data seriously. Despite this rating, TTUSD’s overall attendance remains 3.3% above the state average. We are actively using our "Attention to Attendance" platform and "Tier 1" strategies to ensure every student feels a sense of belonging and shows up ready to learn.

English Learner Progress

After a strong 2024, our progress declined by 9.6% this year, moving us into the orange category. While we remain above the state average, we are already working to reverse this trend. One strategy we are focused on, which was highlighted in the November newsletter, is integrating English Language Development (ELD) strategies directly into our core curriculum. This helps students master the complex "academic language," a strategy that clarifies challenging content for both English Learners and native speakers.

A Deeper Dive

Assistant Superintendent Shaun Roderick presented a full overview of this year’s Dashboard at the January 7th board meeting. We encourage you to watch the recording or explore the Dashboard website to learn more.

Do you, or anyone you know, have a little one ready for their first school adventure? TTUSD is excited to welcome our newest learners for the 2026-2027 school year! Families with students new to the district are invited to our Elementary Preview Nights to explore our campuses and meet our dedicated staff.

While many attendees will be families of future Transitional Kindergarten (TK) students, these evenings are also the perfect starting point for Kindergarten families new to TTUSD. If your child is currently enrolled in a TTUSD TK program, you don’t need to attend these preview nights.

These evenings are an excellent chance to:

Tour our Classrooms: Get a firsthand look at the learning environment.
Meet our Teams: Connect with the amazing principals and teachers who support our students.
Ask Questions: Learn more about our curriculum, specialized programs, and the enrollment process.

Eligibility & Enrollment

Transitional Kindergarten (TK): Children born between September 2, 2021, and September 1, 2022.
Kindergarten: Children turning five on or before September 1, 2026.

All five TTUSD elementary schools offer full-day TK programs. If you are interested in SELS (Sierra Expeditionary Learning School), keep in mind that they begin with Kindergarten, and attendance at their preview night is required to enter their enrollment lottery.

Spanish interpretation will be available at all sites.

Help Us Spread the Word!

Do you know a neighbor or friend with a child ready for TK or Kindergarten? Please share this info! Word of mouth is the best way to ensure every family finds the perfect fit for their child.

At the December Measure AA Citizens Oversight Committee meeting, we were once again blown away by the incredible opportunities our community provides TTUSD students through the $148 parcel tax. These funds are the heartbeat of many of our specialized programs, ensuring students have access to the staffing and resources that make a TTUSD education so special.

The Committee meets regularly to review how the funds are spent. We are excited to share that Chairperson Hayden Pruitt is now supported by Amanda Helm, who was elected as Assistant Chairperson. Thank you to both of these community members for their leadership!

School Highlights

A highlight of each meeting is hearing how Measure AA funds impact specific campuses. At the December meeting, we heard from two schools:

Truckee Elementary School (TES)

With $759,302 in Measure AA funding this year, TES supports 4.4 staff positions, including a full-time counselor and funding for P.E., science, and music teachers. Beyond staffing, these funds provide items like:

Student Enrichment: The K-Swim program, "Morning Boost" intervention, and the Wild Things schoolwide assemblies.
Tools & Technology: Musical instruments, P.E. equipment, science curriculum, and iPad accessories.
Social & Emotional Learning: "Toolbox" social-emotional learning curriculum, SEL books of the month, and re-engagement tools.

North Tahoe High School (NTHS)

With $746,167 in Measure AA funding this year, NTHS supports 3.3 academic enhancement positions, including full-time art and music teachers, a librarian, and several AP-level courses. A few other highlights include:

Career & Arts: Culinary supplies, engineering kits, and equipment for visual and performing arts.
Science & Tech: Lab equipment (like Newton demonstrators and centrifuges) and classroom Chromebooks.
Academic Support: New York Times subscriptions and the "Library of Things" (including a sewing machine!).

Join the Conversation

The Measure AA Citizens Oversight Committee is open to all community members. We invite you to join us to learn more about how your parcel tax dollars are being invested!

Date & Time: March 17, 2026, 3:45 pm - 4:45 pm
Two Locations: TTUSD District Office and NTHS Library (connected via video conference)

January marks School Board Appreciation Month, a time for us to pause and recognize the five dedicated individuals who guide the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District. Our Trustees are more than just volunteers; they are neighbors, parents, and community members who carry the responsibility of shaping the future for every student in our district.

We are honored to be led by:

Dianna “DeeDee” Driller, Board President, Trustee Area 5 (West Shore to Dollar Hill)
Cris Hennessey, Board Clerk, Trustee Area 3 (Cedar Flat to Stateline)
Patrick Mooney, Trustee Area 1 (Truckee and Tahoe Donner)
Kirsten Livak, Trustee Area 2 (Glenshire and Prosser Lakeview)
Denyelle Nishimori, Trustee Area 4 (Northstar and Sierra Meadows)

The past year has been a reminder of the complexity of school leadership. As our community has navigated polarizing and challenging topics, our Trustees have modeled what it means to lead with both an open ear and a steady hand. We are grateful for their commitment to truly hearing all perspectives while never losing sight of the fiscal health and long-term educational stability of our district.

From late-night board meetings and budget sessions to cheering on students at local events, our Trustees demonstrate an unwavering belief in the potential of every child.

Thank you, Trustees, for your thoughtfulness, your courage, and your steadfast commitment to TTUSD!

At the January 7 Board meeting, North Tahoe School (NTS) took center stage to share the vibrant culture of their WEB (Where Everyone Belongs) program. Principal Chad Lindeen and Assistant Principal Betys Pillsbury, alongside Wellness Center Specialist Danielle Segal and Campus Monitor Cassie Frock, introduced eighth-grade student leaders Gabby and Suvi, who demonstrated how the WEB team is building a foundation of kindness and belonging at their school.

Mentorship in Action

WEB is a powerful dual-purpose program. It helps incoming sixth graders feel comfortable and successful as they transition to middle school, and also provides eighth-grade students with phenomenal leadership and mentorship skills. Gabby and Suvi shared how these connections change lives:

Building Confidence: Gabby recalled how her own WEB leaders supported her as an English Learner in sixth grade. Today, she is a confident leader paying that kindness forward.
Creating Lifelong Friendships: In a true "full circle" moment, Suvi and Gabby shared that they actually met in their sixth-grade WEB group and are now close friends—proving that the program builds connections.
Modeling Leadership: These student leaders aren't just there for orientation; they spend the year hosting lunch meetings, teaching advisory lessons, and acting as "trusted peers" for younger students.

A highlight of the presentation was when the student invited Board members to join in the "straw activity." The interactive trust-building challenge filled the room with laughter and perfectly illustrated how a little play and teamwork can break down social barriers.

The Board was blown away by the students' poise and public speaking skills. Trustee Mooney noted that WEB "helps miraculously" during the nerve-wracking transition to middle school, while Board President Driller praised the students for their full circle growth from mentees to mentors.

Thank you to the NTS team for showing us that when students lead with heart, the whole school thrives!

A highlight of our January 21 Board Meeting was the Tahoe Lake Elementary school showcase, where staff shared the incredible strides their "Cubs" are making! Principal Foucek began by sharing some exciting news: student progress is soaring. According to the latest CA Dashboard results, 88.9% of students showed growth in English Language Arts, and 93.8% in Math last year.

Heart and Soul: Social Emotional Learning

Believing that education involves the heart as much as the mind, Tahoe Lake is a place where every child is taught they belong. Using TTUSD’s Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener, Satchel Pulse, the school is leaning into what they do best: building a kind, inclusive culture. Some highlights include:

Relationship Building: From "Grade Buddies," where younger and older graders team up, to writing each other letters with the student-run Tahoe Lake Post Office, students are learning that they are better together.
Respect for Others: In the Peacemakers program, student volunteers are easily identified by their Peacemaker vest to use conflict-resolution training to help peers navigate playground issues with kindness.
Appreciating Diversity: Almost every classroom starts the day with a Morning Meeting or check-in. This consistent routine creates a safe space for students to share their unique perspectives and connect with classmates, creating an environment where students feel welcome and valued.

Students Leading the Way

To keep the momentum going and focus on skills they see room for growth in, Tahoe Lake launched the "S.E.L. WIN" group. In this program, 4th graders work on skills like goal-setting and stress management, then head into younger classrooms to teach those same lessons. By letting students lead, Tahoe Lake is building a foundation of confidence that will last long after these kids leave elementary school.

January is the perfect time to reset routines and refocus on well-being. Whether it's showing up to class or making healthy choices, small changes build a strong foundation for your child’s future.

Reset Attendance Goals

Attending school every day is one of the best ways to make sure your child feels connected and successful. Consider setting a family attendance goal for the rest of the school year, such as:

“We will set a consistent bedtime so everyone wakes up feeling rested. This eases our mornings and helps us get to school on time.”
“We will check attendance weekly to celebrate improvements and quickly address any missed time together.”
“We will reach out to school staff for support if getting to school is a struggle. We can create a plan together.”

Healthy Choices: Keeping the Conversation Open

Part of our Tobacco Use Prevention Education (TUPE) is empowering parents to talk about health choices without the "lecture" feel. Use these conversation starters to check in on how your child is navigating social pressures:

"Have you felt any pressure lately around things like vaping or drinking?"
"Is there anything you’ve heard at school or online about health choices that you’re curious or confused about?"
"Who do you feel most comfortable talking to when something is bothering you?"

By keeping these lines of communication open, you can help your child navigate the new year with confidence and health!

Since June 2025, we’ve been working with a group of experts and community partners to develop our Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. This plan helps us prepare for natural challenges such as heavy snow and wildfires, and it ensures the district remains eligible for federal safety grants.

We want to hear from you! Your feedback helps make sure our hazard mitigation strategies meet the needs of our students, families, and staff.

How to get involved

Review the Draft: The plan is available for public review on our website.
Share Your Thoughts: You can submit your comments and feedback through THIS Google Form.
Dates: The public comment window is open through February 9, 2026.

Once the community review is complete, we’ll submit the plan to state and federal agencies for final approval. Thank you for helping us keep our district prepared and resilient!

Following a recent change in state law, our dedicated TTUSD nursing team is making our schools even safer! In December, our nurses rolled out a new program to support students and staff who experience breathing difficulties, whether they have a diagnosed condition like asthma or not.

Every school site will now have a stock albuterol inhaler on campus. Similar to our existing stock Epi-Pen program, this medication is available for emergency use to help anyone in respiratory distress.

Why This Matters

Safety First: Immediate access to medication can be life-saving during a breathing emergency.
Maximizing Learning: By addressing breathing issues promptly on campus, we can reduce the instructional time students miss.

If a stock inhaler is used, our team will coordinate a follow-up with the family's medical provider to ensure ongoing care.

A huge thank you to the Truckee Rotary Community Foundation for their generous sponsorship, which made this safety program possible! If you have questions or want to learn more, please reach out to your school nurse.

Does your high schooler have an interest in technology or a curiosity about how our local agencies operate? The Truckee North Tahoe Tech Teens (TNT Tech Teens) program is an incredible—and free—opportunity for 9th–12th graders to explore the high-tech careers powering our community.

Hosted by the Truckee Chamber of Commerce, this program gives students a "behind-the-scenes" look at the professional world, helping them connect classroom learning to real-world career paths in our community.

The Value of Real-World Tech Exposure

Exclusive Hands-On Tours: Students see technology in action at sites like an air traffic control tower, a TV station, and a medical lab.
Professional Networking: Participants meet the experts who run our local agencies, gaining insight into the education and skills needed for these high-paying careers.
Resume Building: Students who complete the program receive a certificate presented by the Mayor of Truckee—a fantastic addition to college and job applications.

Collaborative Community Partners

This year’s program is made possible through partnerships with the California Highway Patrol, the Town of Truckee, Cal Fire, Tahoe Forest Health System, Truckee Donner Public Utilities District, the Tahoe Truckee Airport, and TTUSD. Together, these agencies provide students with a comprehensive look at the diverse tech landscape in our region.

Program Details

When: Thursdays, 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Dates: March 19 – May 7 (No program on April 16)
Application Deadline: February 20, 2026

Space is limited! If you have a student ready to explore their future, please encourage them to apply by February 20. And more information on Tech Teens and the Truckee Chamber of Commerce can be found at Truckee.com.

February 2-6 | National School Counseling Week

February 11 | Minimum Day for All TTUSD Schools

February 12 | THS Spring Back to School Night

February 16 & 17 | No School, President’s Day & Lincoln’s Birthday (Observed)

February 24 | Truckee High School 8th Grade Parent Night

February 26 | Tahoe Lake Elementary Preview Night

March 3 | Truckee Elementary Preview Night

March 3 | Nurtured Heart Parent Workshop in English

March 4 | Nurtured Heart Parent Workshop in Spanish

March 5 | Donner Trail Elementary Preview Night

March 5 | Glenshire Elementary Enrichment Reluctant Dragon Performance

March 6 | Truckee Elementary Spring Showcase

March 10 | Nurtured Heart Parent Workshop in English

March 11 | Nurtured Heart Parent Workshop in Spanish

March 11 | Minimum Day for All TTUSD Schools

March 17 | Measure AA Citizens Oversight Committee Meeting

March 17 | Nurtured Heart Parent Workshop in English

March 18 | Nurtured Heart Parent Workshop in Spanish

March 19 | Glenshire Elementary School Preview Night

March 24 | Truckee Zone Concert at ACMS

March 25 | Minimum Day for All Middle Schools

In this Month's Newsletter In this Month's Newsletter

Academic Achievement

Support Systems

Community Connections

A Message from Superintendent Kramer A Message from Superintendent Kramer

Strategic Plan Check-In | Halfway There & Moving Forward! Strategic Plan Check-In | Halfway There & Moving Forward!

California School Dashboard | Successes and Opportunities California School Dashboard | Successes and Opportunities

Points of Pride: Academic Success

Areas for Growth and Improvement

A Deeper Dive

Find the Perfect Fit | Elementary Preview Nights Find the Perfect Fit | Elementary Preview Nights

Eligibility & Enrollment

Help Us Spread the Word!

Measure AA | Your Support in Action Measure AA | Your Support in Action

School Highlights

Truckee Elementary School (TES)

North Tahoe High School (NTHS)

Join the Conversation

Celebrating Our School Board Trustees Celebrating Our School Board Trustees

North Tahoe School Showcase | Leading with Heart and Connection North Tahoe School Showcase | Leading with Heart and Connection

Mentorship in Action

A Spotlight on Tahoe Lake Elementary | Growing Hearts, Growing Minds A Spotlight on Tahoe Lake Elementary | Growing Hearts, Growing Minds

Heart and Soul: Social Emotional Learning

Students Leading the Way

New Year, New Habits New Year, New Habits

Reset Attendance Goals

Healthy Choices: Keeping the Conversation Open

Help Us Plan for a Safer Future | Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Help Us Plan for a Safer Future | Local Hazard Mitigation Plan

How to get involved

Breathing Easier | New Stock Albuterol Program Breathing Easier | New Stock Albuterol Program

Why This Matters

TNT Tech Teens | A "VIP Pass" to Local Career Paths TNT Tech Teens | A "VIP Pass" to Local Career Paths

The Value of Real-World Tech Exposure

Collaborative Community Partners

Program Details

February February

March March