San Juan Scene - Oct. 7, 2025

Check out our latest issue of San Juan Scene! For the best viewing experience, try viewing this newsletter in your browser to easily navigate sections using the Table of Contents.

Student and staff pride filled Lichen’s campus upon receiving the Gold Implementation Award for their PBIS practices on campus, one that has become the school’s culture.

“I feel pretty good because I have been here my whole life,” shared seventh-grader Aryana.

California PBIS recognized over 2,500 schools across the state, including six San Juan Unified School District sites, as a part of their 2024-25 Recognition program.

Congratulations to Pershing Elementary School, Del Paso Manor Elementary School, Starr King K-8, Thomas Edison Language Institute and Will Rogers Middle School for receiving a Silver Implementation Award.

With three of her children enrolled in the San Juan Unified School District, Jesica Reyna wanted to find more ways to support her students’ success. Through volunteering, she supported with different projects, made copies, prepared packets, graded homework and helped students one-on-one.

After three years of volunteering, a job opportunity presented itself for Reyna. She applied for the school playground recreation aide position at Green Oaks and is now working in the role.

“I would always admire seeing the rec aides and the teachers, thinking, ‘One day I hope that I could be here,’” she recalled.

San Juan Unified is seeking student, family and staff input on proposed instructional materials for a variety of subjects now through Dec. 17.

Feedback is crucial to making informed decisions about proposed instructional materials. Families, students, community members and staff play a crucial role in reviewing materials and providing input. The feedback gathered from these materials will guide each curriculum adoption committee to make the most informed recommendations.

There are many ways to get involved in the materials selection feedback process. Anyone can provide in-person feedback by scheduling an appointment or via the online form. Proposed instructional materials and full details on how to provide feedback are available on the curriculum webpage.

On Sept. 24, San Juan Unified partnered with the California Aerospace Museum to host the annual Women in STEAM event, providing middle school girls with a firsthand look at careers in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.

Students toured aircraft, explored interactive exhibits, participated in hands-on demonstrations, and heard from inspiring women leaders working in high-demand STEAM fields — all designed to build confidence and show them they belong in these industries.

Starting mid-September, San Juan Unified School District rolled out its pilot of halal-certified bean and cheese burritos across all schools.

Halal meals are foods prepared according to Islamic dietary guidelines, which include specific rules for how ingredients are sourced and handled.

For many students and families, the program is about more than just a meal. It's about ensuring students feel respected and included. For 11th-grade student Yalda at Encina High School, the news feels like a milestone.

“This is the best opportunity for Muslim students in American schools,” she said. “It means we don’t have to go home hungry. Our parents will be happy too. It is the best news for us.”

During the 2024-25 school year, select San Juan Unified School District teachers and students participated in a program to evaluate two generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools for students.

As a result of the evaluation of these tools, San Juan Unified has purchased a license for Magic Student for grades 2 and above. With Magic Student, teachers can:

• Provide structured learning and experiences with and about generative AI in order to prepare them for life and work in an AI-integrated world

• Select tools for students to use as needed to access a range of academic supports

Schools across San Juan Unified came together to celebrate College Week, inspiring students to explore their post-secondary education options. From decorating college-themed doors at Encina High School to showing school spirit on College Gear Day, students engaged in creative and exciting ways to think about their futures.

High school students also connected directly with colleges during our Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Recruitment Fair and College Night held at Encina Fundamental High School and Rio Americano High School, gaining valuable insights into programs, admissions and scholarships.

These experiences help ensure our students are prepared, confident and ready to take the next step after high school.

The STARS Hall of Fame shines a spotlight on alumni who show excellence and creativity in their career field, inspired by a San Juan Unified School District education. Honorees are selected thanks to nominations submitted by our community, making this recognition especially meaningful.

Meet this year’s honorees:

• Melissa Lloyd, Mira Loma High School 1990 - Deputy Director, Child Protective Services at Sacramento County

• Joanna Rowland, El Camino Fundamental High School 1996 - Children's Author

• Josh Emmett, El Camino Fundamental High School 2003 - MMA Fighter

Join us in celebrating these honorees at the “An Evening with the STARS” gala on Oct. 10 at The Center at 2300 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.