"THE BUSD BRIDGE"

Dear BUSD students, families, faculty, support staff, administrators, and community partners,

Spring is a season of growth, and across Burbank Unified I see that spirit everywhere: in the joyful energy of our classrooms, the creativity on our stages, the teamwork on our fields, and the steady kindness that defines our school communities.

John Muir Middle School has been officially named a California “School to Watch.” This is a major honor reserved for middle schools that excel in academics, support the whole child, champion equity, and lead with collaboration. Achieving this recognition takes a rigorous application, a thorough site visit, and proven results, Muir has all of that and more. They now join an elite group of schools that mentor others and share their best practices statewide.

Monterey High School has been recommended as a CCEA Plus Model School—a powerful affirmation of the innovative, caring, and student‑centered work happening on that campus. Monterey’s staff and leaders open doors for students every day, creating personalized pathways to graduation and beyond. This spring’s CCEA Plus Annual Conference will be here in Burbank, and Monterey’s story will help inspire educators from across California. We’re proud of you, Monterey thank you for proving what opportunity, encouragement, and perseverance can accomplish.

A hopeful, honest look at our finances

As we celebrate, we are also doing the careful work of stewardship. Like many districts in California, BUSD is experiencing declining enrollment, which directly reduces our state funding over time. Costs, particularly in Special Education services, transportation, contracted providers, and rising salary/benefit obligations, have continued to grow. When temporary COVID‑era relief funds sunset, those underlying pressures became more visible, creating a structural deficit we must address.

To move forward responsibly, we will bring our Second Interim Budget and a Fiscal Stabilization Plan to the Board. These are long‑term, structural corrections that realign our spending with today’s enrollment while protecting core classroom instruction. This plan doesn’t erase every challenge, but it slows reserve erosion, reduces risk, and keeps BUSD on a steady path, so our schools can continue focusing on what matters most: students and their learning.

Clarity, care, and community

We know budget conversations can feel complex and personal. To make the process clearer, we created FAQs for staff, families, and the community. These FAQs explain what the Fiscal Stabilization Plan is, why it’s needed, what’s being proposed, and how the timeline works—because transparency and trust are essential as we navigate this together.

What won’t change

Even as we right‑size and plan ahead, our values remain constant:

• Students first. We will protect core instruction and meaningful learning experiences.
• Belonging and well‑being. We will continue to support the social‑emotional needs of students and staff.
• Excellence through partnership. We will listen, learn, and problem‑solve with our educators, families, and community, because we are stronger together.

Thank you for the many ways you lift our schools—volunteering in classrooms, cheering at concerts and games, mentoring students, and offering thoughtful feedback. Your support fuels our momentum and helps every child feel known, challenged, and supported.

In Partnership,

Dr. Oscar Macias

Interim Superintendent
Burbank Unified School District

National Women's History Month - March 2026

Board of Education - March 5, 2026, Thursday @ 6 p.m. at Burbank City Hall

Open House - High Schools - March 11, 2026

Open House - Middle Schools - March 12, 2026

Spring Recess - March 16 - March 20

School Resumes - March 23, 2026, Monday

Board of Education Meeting - March 26, 2026, Thursday @ 6 p.m. at Burbank City Hall

National Women’s History Month: Celebrating the Women Who Lead, Inspire, and Shape Our Future

Every March, school districts across the country join a national tradition of honoring the remarkable contributions women have made to our history, our communities, and our collective progress. What began as a grassroots celebration in Santa Rosa, California in 1978 grew into a national observance when President Jimmy Carter proclaimed the first Women’s History Week in 1980. In 1987, Congress expanded this recognition to the entire month of March, now known as National Women’s History Month.

Today, Women’s History Month is a dedicated time to reflect on the resilience, leadership, creativity, and courage of women who shaped our past and continue to shape our future. This year’s national theme, selected by the National Women’s History Alliance—“Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future”—highlights the vital role women play in building strong, equitable, and thriving communities. From environmental stewardship to educational leadership, from community advocacy to scientific innovation, women continue to drive change that benefits us all.

In Burbank Unified, we see these examples of leadership every day.

We see it in the educators who ignite curiosity in our youngest learners; the counselors who help students navigate challenges; the coaches, directors, and advisors who guide students toward their passions; and the administrators who lead with integrity and compassion. We also see it in the countless women behind the scenes, our office staff, librarians, instructional assistants, food service professionals, custodians, and so many others, whose work ensures our schools are safe, welcoming, and vibrant places to learn.

We also celebrate the young women in our classrooms, students who are emerging leaders, creators, scholars, athletes, and changemakers. Their voices and ideas remind us that the future is bright, inclusive, and full of possibility.

National Women’s History Month invites each of us to honor the women who opened doors, challenged limits, and created opportunities we benefit from today. But it also calls us to recognize and uplift the women who continue this important work in our schools and across our community.

As we move through March, we encourage all students, staff, and families to take time to explore women’s stories, local and global, historic and contemporary, that inspire reflection and action. Whether through classroom discussions, library displays, writing projects, or celebrations on campus, let us use this month to recognize the extraordinary women whose contributions shape and strengthen Burbank Unified School District.

Together, we honor the past.
Together, we celebrate the present.
And together, we uplift the women who are shaping a sustainable, equitable, and hopeful future.

As we approach the presentation of the Second Interim Budget and the Fiscal Stabilization Plan for 2026–27, we want to ensure our entire community has clear and accessible information about the District’s financial reality, what it means for our schools, and the steps ahead.

Over the past several months, our team has been working closely with the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) to address significant fiscal challenges, including structural deficit spending, declining enrollment, rising Special Education costs, and the expiration of one‑time COVID relief funds. These pressures—experienced by school districts across California—require BUSD to take thoughtful and responsible action now to protect our long‑term financial stability.

Because this information is detailed and often complex, the District has created a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document to help staff, families, and community members understand the root causes of our budget challenges and the purpose of the Fiscal Stabilization Plan.

Why We Created the FAQ

We know that conversations about budget reductions can feel overwhelming, and it’s important to us that our community has factual, transparent information in plain language.
The FAQ was created to:

• Explain why the Fiscal Stabilization Plan is required
  (LACOE mandates a corrective plan for districts facing structural deficits.)
  

• Show how declining enrollment impacts revenue
  (446 fewer students this year alone means reduced ADA and decreased long‑term LCFF funding.)

• Highlight why costs have outpaced revenue
  (Special Education expenses, staffing costs, transportation, and reliance on contracted services.)
  

• Summarize the proposed reductions for 2026–27
  (Approximately $5.99 million in ongoing structural corrections across administrative, certificated, classified, and non‑personnel areas.)
  

• Clarify how the plan protects classrooms and maintains services
  (Prioritizing instructional programs while aligning staffing to enrollment.)
  

• Outline the timeline and next steps
  (Including notification deadlines, Board hearings, and State budget milestones.)

• Share the District’s ongoing commitments
  (Transparency, community engagement, regular updates, and collaboration with SBAC.

Key Points from the FAQ

Here are several important takeaways:

1. Enrollment decline is a major driver of the deficit.

BUSD has lost 446 students year over year, and lower ADA directly reduces state funding. Even with a temporary three‑year average, long‑term revenue declines as lower years replace higher ones.

2. The District is still spending more than it receives.

The Multi‑Year Projection shows deficit spending of:

• –$13.9M in 2025–26
• –$11.6M in 2026–27
• –$12.0M in 2027–28
  

3. Reserves are approaching the State minimum.

District reserves drop from 9.97% this year to 3.02% next year—barely above the 3% requirement.

4. A total of $5.99 million in ongoing reductions is required for 2026–27.

This includes administrative restructuring, certificated/classified staffing alignment, and reductions in contracted services.

5. Additional structural corrections may be needed in 2027–28.

Projected reductions include an estimated $1.17M in certificated and $694K in classified savings (approximately $3.19M when including benefits). These estimates will be reviewed with SBAC and the Board.

6. Special Education cost growth is the largest budget pressure.

Increased needs, contracted provider costs, and transportation demands are outpacing revenue. The FSP introduces multi‑layered containment strategies..

Our Commitment to You

We remain committed to:

• Being transparent about our fiscal challenges
• Protecting core classroom instruction
• Supporting our students and staff throughout this process
• Maintaining open communication as the Second Interim moves forward
• Preserving long‑term stability and local control

Where to Find the FAQ

The full FAQ will be available on our district website and will continue to be updated as new information becomes available.

Thank you for your continued partnership and engagement during this important phase of our budget process. Together, we will navigate this challenge with clarity, honesty, and a shared focus on providing the best possible education for all BUSD students.

The Burbank Unified School District is proud to announce that it has been recommended for the prestigious Model High School Award by the California Continuation Education Association (CCEA) Plus. This distinction honors continuation high schools that demonstrate exceptional commitment to academic excellence, innovative programming, student support systems, and equitable pathways to graduation.

While the official statewide announcement will be made in the coming weeks, CCEA Plus has authorized Monterey High School to begin celebrating this remarkable achievement.

“This recognition is a powerful validation of the dedication, heart, and hard work that defines Monterey High School,” said Dr. Oscar Macias, Interim Superintendent of Burbank Unified. “Our staff, students, and families have built a community deeply committed to student success, and we are honored that CCEA Plus has acknowledged their excellence.”

“While it is an honor to receive the Model School designation, it does not surprise me!” said Daniel Di Mundo, the new Principal of Monterey High School. The work of the staff and leadership over the past several years has created a pathway towards high school graduation for students who need more support than offered in a traditional setting. This results in students being able to thrive and experience academic success where they previously had not. It is an honor to have the opportunity to lead Monterey and find even more ways to strengthen our program.”

CCEA PLUS ANNUAL CONFERENCE — HOSTED IN BURBANK

As part of the early celebration, Monterey High School is invited to participate in the CCEA Plus Annual Conference, taking place April 30 – May 3, 2026, right here in Burbank, California. This premier event brings together educators from across the state to collaborate, network, and advance best practices in alternative education.

Statewide, schools that, like Monterey High School, create life‑changing pathways for students.

A CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE & A COMMITMENT TO STUDENT SUCCESS

Monterey High School’s recommendation reflects its strong instructional programs, personalized supports, and innovative approaches to student engagement. This recognition showcases:

• A campus-wide commitment to meeting students where they are

• Staff who consistently go above and beyond to support academic achievement

• Programs that prepare students for college, career, and lifelong success

• A culture centered on belonging, resilience, and empowerment

ABOUT MONTEREY HIGH SCHOOL

Monterey High School is BUSD’s continuation high school, dedicated to providing flexible, supportive, and rigorous academic pathways for students who benefit from a personalized approach to learning. Monterey empowers students to overcome challenges, build confidence, and successfully transition to college, career, or postsecondary opportunities.

ABOUT CCEA PLUS

The California Continuation Education Association Plus promotes high-quality alternative education across California. Each year, it recognizes exemplary continuation high schools that demonstrate innovative programming, strong student outcomes, and exceptional school culture through the Model School Award.

Congratulations again to Monterey High School on this outstanding achievement!
Burbank Unified School District is proud to celebrate your excellence and continued commitment to student success.

Burbank Unified School District is proud to announce that John Muir Middle School has been officially designated a California “School to Watch” (STW), a prestigious statewide recognition awarded to exemplary middle schools demonstrating academic excellence, developmental responsiveness, social equity, and strong, collaborative leadership. This designation is part of the California Schools to Watch program, coordinated by the California League of Middle Schools and the California Middle Grades Alliance in association with The National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform.

A Rigorous, Research‑Based Recognition

To earn this designation, middle schools must complete an extensive application and undergo a rigorous site visit by trained middle‑grades experts. Schools must show evidence of:

• Academic Excellence – challenging instruction aligned to standards and data‑driven practices.

• Developmental Responsiveness – programs that support adolescents’ academic, physical, social, and emotional needs.

• Social Equity – equitable access and meaningful support for all learners.

• Innovative and Collaborative Leadership – leadership structures that drive continuous improvement.

California Schools to Watch sites serve as statewide models, sharing best practices, hosting school visits, and supporting other middle schools pursuing improvement.

A Model for the State

Each year, the Schools to Watch program identifies high‑performing middle schools across California that demonstrate sustained success and innovative approaches to meeting the needs of young adolescents. These schools “teach deeply to standards, assess ongoing student progress, use data to make decisions, and provide effective interventions,” according to California STW program descriptions.

Designation as a School to Watch places John Muir Middle School among a select group of model schools statewide recognized for closing opportunity gaps, promoting student engagement, and preparing students for success through the middle grades and beyond.

Superintendent’s Statement

Dr. Oscar Macias, Interim Superintendent of Burbank Unified School District, praised the achievement:

“John Muir Middle School’s designation as a School to Watch is a reflection of the dedication, innovation, and commitment of its educators, staff, students, and families. This honor highlights the school’s strong academic programs, inclusive culture, and ongoing commitment to ensuring every student thrives during these critical middle‑grade years.”

Statement from Principal Dr. Greg Miller

“We are extremely proud to be recognized as a School To Watch. This recognition is a product of the hardwork, devotion, and innovation of Muir’s faculty and staff. We are fortunate at Muir to have a team of employees committed to providing the best school experience for our students. They go above and beyond every day in ways large and small for students and families. We look forward to collaborating with other middle schools and joining the state and national network of Schools To Watch.”

A Community Achievement

The School to Watch designation recognizes the entire Muir community, teachers, support staff, parents, and students who continue to foster a learning environment that is collaborative, future‑focused, and grounded in equity.

BUSD extends its deepest appreciation to the California League of Middle Schools, the California Middle Grades Alliance, and The National Forum for their leadership and for recognizing schools that model excellence.

Next Steps

As a School to Watch, John Muir Middle School will participate in statewide professional learning networks, host visiting educators, and contribute to strengthening middle‑grades practices across California.

For more information about the Schools to Watch program, visit the California STW page at https://www.joinclms.org/stw

At Joaquin Miller Elementary, our Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program plays a central role in shaping a safe, supportive, and joyful learning environment for all students.

Our Miller Jaguars proudly live by our PAWS Promise, which is recited daily in classrooms and reinforced through weekly announcements, schoolwide posters, and monthly spirit assemblies.

The Miller Jaguar PAWS Promise:

As a Miller Jaguar...I PAWS for success in all I do.

I Persevere and never quit.

I Act responsibly every day.

I Work together and do my share.

I Spread kindness everywhere."

These consistent reminders help students internalize our shared behavior expectations and contribute to a strong, positive school culture.

Each month, we focus on a Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) theme.

For March, our focus is Responsibility. Students participate in weekly PBIS challenges such as: “I can be responsible by helping others when I say I will, and I can take ownership of my actions and fix my mistakes.” These simple but powerful statements help students reflect on their choices and build lifelong character skills.

Students are recognized for demonstrating PAWS expectations through PAWS Tickets, which they place in their grade-level community boxes. Grade levels with the highest participation earn fun incentives like extra lunch playtime or hat days, favorites among our Jaguars. By intentionally “looking for the good,” we find that when we seek out positive behaviors, we see more of them. This mindset continues to transform our school culture in meaningful ways.

In addition, our Miller Jaguars Problem-Solving Wheel empowers students on the playground to independently work through conflicts and practice communication and decision-making skills. These everyday moments help students develop the life skills they will carry with them far beyond elementary school.

Through teamwork among students, staff, and families, our educational learning partners, we are committed to nurturing responsible, kind, and resilient learners. We truly believe the world will be a brighter place with our Miller Jaguars leading the way.

Distracted driving is dangerous and continues to take lives. In 2024, about 3,275 people died in the U.S. because of distracted driving. In California, it's one of the top causes of deadly crashes, with nearly 4,000 fatal accidents linked to it.

In Burbank — and across California — it’s against the law to use a handheld cell phone while driving, unless it’s an emergency. Getting caught can be expensive. A first-time ticket could cost over $160 once court fees and other charges are added.

What Is Considered Distracted Driving?

Using a handheld cell phone
This includes texting, using social media, maps, or any app, even if the phone is on speaker.

Other visual, manual, or cognitive distractions
Actions like eating, drinking, grooming, smoking, adjusting the radio, or even talking to passengers can be considered distracted driving.

Stay protected from unexpected emergency medical costs with the Burbank Fire Department EMS Membership Program!

For a monthly or annual fee, this program helps Burbank residents cover out-of-pocket ambulance and paramedic costs that insurance doesn’t pay, with coverage for your entire household.

Sign up today and gain peace of mind knowing you’re covered when you need it most.

For more information: https://www.burbankca.gov/web/fire-department

The City of Burbank invites residents to participate in a series of upcoming public meetings focused on the potential new Central Library and Public Plaza project, including a City Council Study Session and multiple Community Town Halls. These meetings are part of the City’s ongoing effort to share information, gather feedback, and continue exploring how a future library and public plaza could best serve the Burbank community.

The City Council will hold a public Study Session on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, from 5:00 to 6:00 PM, to share early conceptual plans for the potential new Central Library and Public Plaza. The Study Session will be open to the public and broadcast live and will be followed by the regular City Council meeting beginning at 6:00 PM. This Study Session will be one of the first opportunities for the public to view conceptual ideas and learn more about the project’s direction.

Following the Study Session, the City will host a series of Community Town Halls designed to provide more detailed information about the proposed architecture and planning approach, while also collecting feedback on community priorities, concerns, and suggestions. Each Town Hall will include a presentation by the project team, followed by opportunities for questions and discussion.

The Community Town Halls will be held:

· Wednesday, March 25, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Burbank Central Library

· Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 7:00 to 8:00 PM online

· Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Burbank Central Library

Residents who cannot attend the events are encouraged to share feedback in any of the following ways:

· Submit comments online at www.newburbanklibrary.com

· Leave a voicemail at (818) 239-7024

· Email burbankpubliclibrary@burbankca.gov

For the latest updates on the project and additional engagement opportunities, please visit www.newburbanklibrary.com.

Burbank Council PTA is proud to uphold the mission of the California State PTA: to positively impact the lives of all children and families by promoting family engagement and advocating for the health, education, and safety of every child.

This year, we put that mission into motion through key programs like our Fire Prevention Safety Night and our Growing up in the Digital Age series. These events are designed to strengthen the bond between home and school while giving parents the tools they need to navigate today’s world.

Your Voice, Our Mission

As we look toward the 2026-2027 school year, we want to ensure our programming continues to focus on equity, inclusivity, and the well-being of our students. To do that effectively, we need to hear from our most important partners: you.

Please take a moment to share your insights in our short programming poll. Whether you attended every event this year or are looking for something new, your feedback directly shapes our future calendar.

Link: Share Your Feedback Here

Your feedback ensures that Burbank Council PTA remains a strong advocate for your family. We appreciate your partnership in making our schools a supportive environment for every child.

A sincere thank you goes out to the Burbank PTSA for recently organizing two impactful screenings of the documentary Screenagers. By hosting dedicated events for both the elementary version and the adolescent/secondary version of the film, the PTSA provided an invaluable space for elementary families, as well as secondary students and their parents, to discuss one of today's most pressing topics: growing up in the digital age.

The events featured engaging post-film discussions expertly moderated by Jim Festante. He guided a diverse and highly insightful panel that included district administrators, school psychologists, counselors, current students, and alumni. This blend of professional expertise and authentic student experience made for a truly well-rounded and eye-opening conversation.

During the discussion, families asked poignant, thoughtful questions about parenting in an era where screens are ubiquitous both at school and at home. In response, school officials and panelists provided practical guidance and reassured parents by outlining the proactive steps the district is taking. Leaders shared vital information about how our schools are working to providing safe-guards as well as providing a balance of technology-driven and non-technology learning activities and environments.

Thank you again to the Burbank PTSA, Jim Festante, our fantastic panelists, and all the families who attended for making these events a night of meaningful connection and collaborative learning!

The Burbank Arts & Education Foundation (BAEF) raises funds to directly support Burbank’s TK-12 public schools.

The Burbank Arts & Education Foundation was honored to be selected for the New York Film Academy’s Community Film Project. As part of the class, students are tasked with producing a pro-bono short film for a local nonprofit.

We were deeply impressed by the talent and professionalism these students brought to the table. The result is an engaging seven-minute documentary that perfectly captures our mission. We invite you to watch Strong Roots: Bright Futures.

Dear Burbank Unified Families, Staff and Friends,

Another month, another milestone.

What’s happening in Sacramento?

1) Friday, February 20th was the bill introduction deadline. My team and I are currently working with twenty active bills, including four two-year bills. Stay tuned as I share more on my website and social media.

2) Protect your data with DROP. Starting August 1, 2026, data brokers are required by law to begin deleting requested data and must continue checking for new requests every 45 days. DROP (Delete Request and Opt-Out Platform) is a free, state service that lets Californians request that data brokers delete their personal information and stop selling it. Learn more on how it works and why to use it here: https://privacy.ca.gov/drop/

What’s happening in Assembly District 44?

My District Director, Diane Rana, and Field Representative, Amanda Faissal, attended the Burbank Arts and Education Foundation’s special documentary short film screening and presented Certificates of Recognition to honor the students’ work, and their contributions to BUSD and the Burbank community. Congratulations to the students who produced the film in partnership with the New York Film Academy.

My District Office continues to accept bill comments and constituent service requests through my website.

Please visit https://schultz.asmdc.org/ to share your comments or request assistance with a state agency. We are also accepting Certificate of Recognition requests for graduating students and teacher or administrative milestones.

Please contact my Burbank Field Representative at Amanda.Faissal@asm.ca.gov for more information.

Stay up-to-date with California legislation and engaged with my District and Capitol Offices throughout the year:

• Track my bills, view votes, analysis, and status here: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/.

• Submit bill comments: https://a44.asmdc.org/contact.

• Livestream Session and Committee hearings: https://www.assembly.ca.gov/

More updates in the months ahead. Until then, stay connected with me on social media: • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AsmNickSchultz • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asmnickschultz/ • Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/asmnickschultz.bsky.social

Sincerely,

Assemblymember Nick Schultz, 44th District