April brings a unique mix of energy and reflection across our schools. It is a time when classrooms remain focused and engaged, while also beginning to look ahead, to year‑end celebrations, continued growth, and the goals still before us. Throughout this busy and meaningful month, I continue to be deeply appreciative of the care, professionalism, and dedication demonstrated each day across the Burbank Unified School District.

This month also represents an important transition for our district. I am pleased to share that we will soon be welcoming Dr. Tom McCoy as the new Superintendent of Burbank Unified School District. Dr. McCoy brings extensive experience, a strong commitment to students, and a collaborative leadership approach that aligns well with our district’s values and priorities. We are excited for the leadership and guidance he will bring as he begins this new chapter with BUSD on July 1, 2026.

As we move forward together, I am confident that under Dr. McCoy’s leadership, and with the continued dedication of our educators, support staff, administrators, students, and families, we will build upon the strong foundation already in place and continue working toward positive outcomes for all students.

Thank you for the trust, partnership, and support you have shown throughout this transitional period. It has been an honor to serve as Interim Superintendent, and I look forward to supporting a smooth and successful leadership transition.

Wishing you a productive and meaningful month ahead.

In Partnership,

Dr. Oscar Macias

Interim Superintendent
Burbank Unified School District

Dr. Thomas McCoy, the current superintendent of the Oxnard Union High School District (OUHSD), and a former classroom teacher and high school principal has been selected as the next superintendent of the Burbank Unified School District (BUSD).

Dr. McCoy is completing his 34th year serving students in California public schools. Dr. McCoy began his distinguished career as a high school teacher in the Sweetwater Union High School District and went on to serve as a principal in the OUHSD, Escondido UHSD and Poway Unified School Districts. In addition, he served as the assistant superintendent of educational services for five years in OUHSD, and the last six years as their Superintendent. He was recently honored as the Association of California School Administrators Region XIII 2023 Superintendent of the Year. Dr. McCoy earned his bachelor’s degree and his doctorate from UCLA. He also earned a master’s degree in educational counseling from the University of San Diego.

Abby Pontzer Kamkar, the President of the BUSD Board of Education, stated, “We were greatly impressed by the high quality of candidates who applied for this position. After considerable time spent meeting and evaluating candidates, it was clear that Dr. McCoy was the candidate who best addressed the needs and qualities described in the Burbank Unified deserves an experienced Superintendent, and Dr. McCoy’s record is impressive.

Dr. McCoy emerged as the best person to rebuild trust with the community, create stability in District operations, and improve academic outcomes across all campuses. We believe he will lead the necessary changes needed within Burbank Unified, while remaining true to our shared values.

Dr. McCoy stated, “I am excited to begin working with the Burbank Unified School District community. Burbank’s reputation for strong student achievement is something that draws me here. I can’t wait to work with everyone in Burbank and help build on their successes. I am highly aware of challenges that the District is facing, and I believe that together we can address these challenges and return our focus to schools and students.”

Arab American Heritage Month

Autism Acceptance Month

Board of Education - April 9 2026, Thursday @ 6 p.m. at Burbank Unified School District Board Room

Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom HaShoah) (4/13/2026–4/14/2026)

Genocide Remembrance Day (4/14/2026)

National Librarian Day (4/16/2026)

Administrative Professionals Week (April 19–25, 2026)

Board of Education Meeting - April 16, 2026, Thursday @ 6 p.m. at Burbank City Hall

Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day - Friday, April 24, 2026

District Staff Development (Pupil-Free Day) Friday, April 24, 2026

Open House - Elementary Schools ..Thursday, April 30, 2026

Arab American Heritage Month, recognized each April, is a time to honor the rich history, cultures, and contributions of Arab Americans to the United States. Arab Americans trace their roots to more than 20 countries across the Middle East and North Africa, and their contributions span education, science, medicine, business, public service, the arts, and civic life. This month provides an opportunity to celebrate the diversity within Arab American communities and to recognize the important role they have played in shaping our nation.

Observing Arab American Heritage Month is also important for fostering understanding, inclusion, and respect within our school communities. By learning about Arab American history and experiences, students develop broader perspectives, challenge stereotypes, and strengthen empathy. These conversations support our district’s commitment to equity, belonging, and cultural awareness—helping ensure that every student feels seen, valued, and respected.

Autism Acceptance Month, observed each April, is a time to increase understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and to recognize the strengths, talents, and diverse experiences of individuals on the autism spectrum. Autism is a neurological difference that affects how people communicate, interact, and experience the world, and it exists across a wide spectrum. Awareness efforts help build knowledge, reduce stigma, and promote accurate understanding of what autism is—and what it is not.

This month is also an opportunity to emphasize acceptance, inclusion, and support. By fostering autism‑inclusive school environments, we help ensure that students with autism feel valued, understood, and empowered to thrive academically and socially. Celebrating Autism Awareness Month reinforces our shared responsibility to create learning spaces that honor individual differences, encourage empathy, and provide meaningful support so that every student has the opportunity to succeed.

In accordance with California Education Code Section 37230.5, the Burbank Unified School District recognizes April as a time to observe a Day of Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide of 1915–1923, honoring the memory of the 1.5 million Armenians who perished during this period. This observance calls on schools to remember this history through reflection and instruction so that the lessons of the past are preserved and future generations understand the consequences of intolerance, hatred, and injustice.

Commemorating the Armenian Genocide reflects BUSD’s commitment to historical understanding, human rights, and civic responsibility. Through age‑appropriate learning and reflection, students are encouraged to develop empathy, recognize the importance of standing against genocide and mass atrocities, and uphold the values of justice and human dignity. By honoring this day, our district affirms the importance of remembrance, education, and awareness as essential components of a more inclusive and compassionate society.

John Muir Middle School has been officially recognized as a 2026 California Distinguished School earning distinction in the category of Achievement Gap Closers.

This honor places Muir among 408 middle and high schools across California selected by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond for exemplary student outcomes and exceptional schoolwide practices. As Superintendent Thurmond announced, “An excellent public education has the power to transform lives, and I commend the educators and school communities who have dedicated themselves to producing exemplary results.”

Since its inception in 1985, the California Distinguished Schools Award has remained one of the state’s most significant ways to celebrate outstanding schools, districts, teachers, and classified employees. The program recognizes schools that demonstrate innovation, strong instructional programs, and a deep commitment to student success.

This year’s recognition categories include:

- Exemplary High Achievers – Schools with the highest academic performance statewide while maintaining or increasing progress for historically underserved groups.

- Achievement Gap Closers – Schools accelerating academic progress for two or more historically underserved student groups while maintaining strong overall achievement.

- Beacons of Opportunity – Schools serving rural or Title I communities demonstrating multiple high‑level student outcomes.

John Muir Middle School’s recognition as an Achievement Gap Closer reflects the school’s focused work to support all students, strengthen instructional practices, and ensure equitable outcomes. This distinction is based on data from the 2025 California School Dashboard which evaluates academic performance, graduation rates, college and career readiness, and school climate.

Schools need not apply for California Distinguished Schools, as every school’s data is automatically considered in alternating years. To further clarify, elementary schools and kindergarten through eighth-grade schools were considered in 2025 and will next be considered in 2027. Middle schools and high schools are being considered in 2026 and will next be considered in 2028. Schools motivated to achieve this statewide distinction are encouraged to set annual schoolwide goals aligned to their progress and areas of growth on the Dashboard.

All 2026 California Distinguished Schools, along with 2025 Blue Ribbon Schools, 2026 Green Achievers, 2026 Exemplary Dual Enrollment Award Schools, 2026 Exemplary Arts Education Award Schools, and 2025 Civic Learning Award honorees, will be celebrated at the California School Recognition Program Awards Ceremony on Friday, April 24, 2026 at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim.

We are incredibly proud of the students, teachers, support staff, leadership, and families at John Muir Middle School. Their dedication, collaboration, and commitment to excellence embody the very best of Burbank Unified.

Joaquin Miller Elementary Student Council Leads Fundraiser for Volunteers of the Burbank Animal Shelter

Joaquin Miller Elementary School’s 4th and 5th Grade Student Council Representatives recently demonstrated the power of student leadership and community compassion through a successful community service project supporting the Volunteers of the Burbank Animal Shelter (VBAS).

As their February 2026 service initiative, Student Council members selected VBAS as the organization they wanted to support. Students and their families responded enthusiastically, donating pet food, supplies, and monetary contributions to help care for the animals at the Burbank Animal Shelter. Through their collective efforts, the Miller Jaguars raised over $550 to support medical supplies and care for shelter animals.

VBAS volunteers play a vital role in supporting the animals at the Burbank Animal Shelter. The organization helps fundraise for critical needs, provides hands-on care for animals, and operates several life-saving programs throughout the shelter. Among these programs is the Kitten Foster Program, which saves more than 300 kittens each year by placing them in temporary homes until they are ready for adoption. VBAS also supports a Medical Program that provides medicines, equipment, and supplies not funded by the City of Burbank.

Additional programs include the Barn Cat Program, which finds homes for feral and otherwise unadoptable cats by placing them in safe working environments, and the Happy Tails Program, where volunteers take shelter dogs on hikes through local parks and canyons to provide exercise, enrichment, and socialization.

VBAS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization entirely operated by volunteers and funded 100 percent through private donations, making community support essential to their mission.

Joaquin Miller Elementary is proud of the Student Council members who organized and promoted this project, demonstrating compassion, civic responsibility, and a commitment to helping animals in need. Their efforts reflect the school’s values of kindness, service, and community engagement.

Joaquin Miller Elementary extends special thanks to teacher leaders Mrs. Pamperin and Mrs. Cabral, whose guidance helped organize and promote this meaningful service project. The school also recognizes the many Joaquin Miller teachers and staff members who reminded students to bring donations and helped collect items throughout the drive.

The Miller community is also grateful for the support of Principal Mrs. Judy Hession, whose encouragement of student leadership and community service helped make this project possible.

Mock Pharmacy Technician Ribbon Cutting at Burbank Adult School

Burbank Adult School proudly offers a comprehensive Pharmacy Technician Training Program designed for adult learners who are ready to take the next step toward a brighter, more secure future. This dynamic program equips students with the practical skills and confidence needed to succeed in today's fast growing healthcare field.

Students receive hands-on training in essential areas such a preparing and packaging medications, maintaining accurate patient records, supporting pharmacist with client care, managing inventory and purchasing, and handling payments and billing processes. Every component of the program is intentionally designed to mirror real-world pharmacy settings, ensuring graduates are job-ready from day one.

In addition to rigorous classroom instruction, students complete 120 hours of externship training, gaining valuable, hands-on experience in professional environments. The program also provides targeted preparation for the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) exam-an industry-recognized credential that opens doors to employment opportunities nationwide.

The results speak for themselves: over the past two years alone, 120 students have successfully earned their certification through Burbank Adult School and gone on to begin rewarding careers as Pharmacy Technicians.

At Burbank Adult School, we are committed to empowering our students with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to transform their lives. Your pathway to a meaningful and in-demand career in healthcare starts here.

Burbank Public Library’s Adult Literacy Services

For one out of five adults in the United States, reading this paragraph is either difficult or impossible. Twenty percent of adults struggle with essential literacy skills, including filling out forms, taking the DMV license exam without assistance, helping their children with homework, addressing an envelope, or writing a check. These everyday tasks become overwhelming barriers to success.

Open New Doors: Improve Your Reading and Writing Skills

Burbank Public Library offers free, private, one-on-one reading and writing tutoring for adults who want to improve their literacy skills in a safe and supportive environment.

If you know someone who may need help with their reading and writing, please have them reach out to the Burbank Library Adult Literacy services at
818-238-5577 or visit us in person at
Burbank Central Library (110 N. Glenoaks Blvd).

English Naturally: A Conversation Group

For those looking to enhance their English conversation skills, English Naturally provides a welcoming and supportive environment. Whether you need to learn new American expressions or gain confidence in speaking, we have options for all levels:

For All Levels: Tuesdays, 4:30 – 6:00 PM
at Burbank Central Library
For Intermediate and Advanced Speakers: Wednesdays, 1:30 – 3:00 PM and Thursdays, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM at Burbank Central Library
For Beginners: Saturdays, 10:30 AM –
12:00 PM at Buena Vista Branch Library

No registration is required. Check out any of our conversation groups today!

Literacy opens doors to opportunities and brighter futures. Whether you’re looking to improve your reading skills, enhance your English conversation abilities, or volunteer as a tutor, Burbank Public Library’s Literacy Services can help. Together, we can transform lives - one word at a time.

Celebrating Excellence: Burbank Council PTA Honors 2026 Honorary Service Award Recipients

In the heart of Burbank, a powerful engine of volunteers, educators, and community partners works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure our students have everything they need to thrive. Each year, the Burbank Council PTA takes a moment to pause and recognize those who go above and beyond through the Honorary Service Awards (HSA).

These prestigious awards are designed to recognize individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the well-being of children and youth in our community. Whether it’s through artistic mentorship, mental health support, or rigorous financial stewardship, this year’s honorees embody the "service above self" spirit that defines Burbank.

We are proud to introduce our 2026 award recipients:

Burbank Arts and Education Foundation (BAEF) Honorary Service Award - The BAEF is a cornerstone of our district, bridging the gap between budget cuts and excellence. From providing STEM supplies and yoga mats to funding instrumental music coaches and outdoor classrooms, BAEF ensures that every student has access to a diverse, high-quality education. Driven by a dedicated board of volunteers and parents, the Foundation's commitment to inclusivity and innovation makes our community thrive.

Erica Bootchk Continuing Service Award - Erica is more than an artist; she is a community builder. Having left her creative mark on Jefferson Elementary, Muir Middle School, and Monterey High School, Erica ensures every child has a voice in the artistic process. Her projects are not just about paint and clay—they are about giving students a sense of pride and a way to leave a positive, lasting legacy on their campuses.

Ms. Gabby Sharaga Continuing Service Award - As a counselor at Monterey High School, Ms. Sharaga has redefined student support. Known for her "student-centered" approach, she has been instrumental in expanding college access and prioritizing mental health. Those who work alongside her describe her as forward-thinking, exceptionally talented, and deeply empathetic. Burbank is a better place because "Counselor Extraordinaire" Gabby Sharaga is in our students' corner.

Shauna Millman Honorary Service Award - Shauna is a "champion for children" in every sense of the word. From managing the complex finances of the McKinley PTA and Burbank Council PTA to volunteering for school musicals at sites where she doesn't even have children enrolled, Shauna’s dedication is unparalleled. She is the person the community calls when they need a leader, a mentor, or a helping hand. Her meticulous work and heart for service have elevated every program she touches.

These awards represent more than just a certificate; they represent the gratitude of thousands of Burbank families. We are a better, stronger district because of the passion and dedication of the BAEF, Erica Bootchk, Gabby Sharaga, and Shauna Millman.

Please join us in celebrating these incredible individuals who continue to make Burbank a wonderful place for our children to learn and grow!

Burbank Arts and Education Foundation

https://givebutter.com/GiveBAEF

We are navigating a period of transition and challenge within the broader educational landscape, yet the Burbank Arts & Education Foundation (BAEF) remains steadfast in our mission. As your dedicated education foundation, we do more than just fill budget gaps; we invest in the limitless potential of our children. We remain deeply committed to ensuring every student in Burbank receives the world-class education they deserve.

We are thrilled to share that we have already awarded more than $53,000 in grants this school year - a total that continues to climb! Thanks to an incredible response to our latest call for proposals, this was our largest Spring Grant cycle to date. We look forward to announcing our newest recipients in the coming weeks and thank you for your generous support of our educators and students.

To continue this vital work, we need your partnership. Our goal is to raise $20,000 by June 30th to sustain and enhance essential resources.

There are several ways you can make a difference:

Become a "Friend of BAEF": For just $30 a month, you can provide consistent, reliable support for our schools. In return, you’ll receive special recognition in our newsletters and discounted tickets to our annual event.
Make a Spring Gift: A one-time donation provides an immediate boost of hope and resources as we close out the school year.
Honor a Graduate: Celebrate a promoting student or graduate with a tribute gift. We will proudly recognize your student’s achievement on our website and social media.

A contribution of any size ensures that Burbank remains a vibrant community where every student has the tools to succeed. Thank you for standing with us.

Burbank is a community that deeply cares about the well-being of its residents, especially our young people. When difficult issues arise in public conversations, it’s important to remember the many resources our community offers to support families and individuals who may be struggling.

Since 1953, the Burbank Family Service Agency's (FSA) mission has been to support the mental health and safety of the entire Burbank community. In 2004, in partnership with the city of Burbank, our mission expanded to include contracted support for Burbank Unified schools, students, and staff, offering no-cost, in-person clinical services for students (K-12) on campuses, crisis support on demand for all schools, and student CARE Centers at the Burbank and John Burroughs campuses.

With just a referral or a phone call, we are here! Our dedicated staff has worked with children, teens, parents, adults, and seniors—providing counseling, family support services, prevention programs, long-term transitional housing, and care during challenging times. Many people may not realize that the Burbank Family Service Agency is open to anyone in the community who needs support.

Whether a family is managing stress at home, a young person is struggling, or someone simply needs guidance, our doors are always open. Communities are strongest when people know where to find help and feel safe reaching out. We are proud to be one of many organizations working every day to support the health, safety, and well-being of Burbank’s families. If you or someone you know could benefit from support, we are just a call away

"THE BUSD BRIDGE"

Thoughts for the Month of April 2026

Joaquin Miller Elementary Student Council Leads Fundraiser for Volunteers of the Burbank Animal Shelter

Mock Pharmacy Technician Ribbon Cutting at Burbank Adult School

Burbank Public Library’s Adult Literacy Services

Celebrating Excellence: Burbank Council PTA Honors 2026 Honorary Service Award Recipients

Burbank Arts and Education Foundation

Message from Dr. Macias, Interim Superintendent Message from Dr. Macias, Interim Superintendent

Welcome to our New Superintendent, Dr. Thomas McCoy Welcome to our New Superintendent, Dr. Thomas McCoy

Important Upcoming Dates Important Upcoming Dates

Click To View 2025 - 2026 Instructional Calendar Click To View 2025 - 2026 Instructional Calendar

Arab American Heritage Month Arab American Heritage Month

Autism Acceptance Month Autism Acceptance Month

April 24, 2026 - Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923 April 24, 2026 - Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1923

John Muir Middle School - A 2026 California Distinguished School John Muir Middle School - A 2026 California Distinguished School

Joaquin Miller Elementary School Joaquin Miller Elementary School

Joaquin Miller Elementary Student Council Leads Fundraiser for Volunteers of the Burbank Animal Shelter

Burbank Adult School Burbank Adult School

Mock Pharmacy Technician Ribbon Cutting at Burbank Adult School

Burbank Public Library Burbank Public Library

Burbank Public Library’s Adult Literacy Services

Education Partners Updates Education Partners Updates

Burbank Council Parent Teachers Association (PTA) Burbank Council Parent Teachers Association (PTA)

Celebrating Excellence: Burbank Council PTA Honors 2026 Honorary Service Award Recipients

Burbank Arts and Education Foundation

Family Service Agency - Burbank Family Service Agency - Burbank