NEST Newsletter

Hello to our NEST Community,

We are excited to celebrate a successful launch to the 2026–2027 school year! All six NEST school sites (CV, EV, EH, PD, MS, and HS) are up and running, with over 1,000 students enrolled in our after-school program in grades TK through 12.

As we look ahead, we are excited to continue to support our students throughout the school year. Students can look forward to expanded academic support, enrichment activities, clubs, and engaging opportunities before and after school, as well as during our winter and spring intersessions.

There are plenty of exciting activities and special events planned for our students and families, and we look forward to another year of learning, growth, and community connection.

Thank you to our families, staff, and community for your continued support. We are grateful to be part of such a wonderful community!

NEST is the BEST

The Expanded Learning Department staff had the opportunity to attend the annual Region 5 Rev-Up Conference in Gilroy September 19th. Staff was able to engage in workshops to grow their skills and get inspired by the other 750+ participants from all over the Region 5 area, which includes Expanded Learning programs in Monterey, Santa Clara, San Benito, and Santa Cruz County.

Elkhorn NEST Coordinator, Cathy Machuca was recognized for being the recipient Region V Excellence Award for NMCUSD for the 2025-2026 School year. Congratulations Ms. Cathy!

What Is Lights On Afterschool?

The week of October 19th-23rd, we celebrate the 27th annual Lights On Afterschool, a nationwide celebration recognizing the importance of afterschool programs and the positive impact they have on students, families, and communities.

As the only national celebration dedicated to afterschool programs, Lights On Afterschool brings communities together to highlight the learning, growth, creativity, and connections that happen beyond the traditional school day.

With more than 8,000 events taking place nationwide and over one million Americans participating, this annual celebration shines a spotlight on the accomplishments of afterschool programs and the incredible opportunities they provide for students.

At NEST, we are proud to be part of a community that supports student success, encourages exploration, and creates meaningful opportunities for every student to learn and thrive! Elementary NEST sites celebrated Lights On with their students and families on October 22nd and 23rd.

Castroville NEST is the BEST because... we promote student leadership and voice through student-led clubs and engaging activities based on students' interests that include sports, arts and crafts, and STEM. We also provide daily academic support to help students complete their homework, strengthen their skills, and develop responsibility. By combining academics, leadership, and enrichment, we create a safe and supportive environment where students feel heard, motivated, and excited to learn.

-Castroville NEST Team

Echo Valley NEST is the BEST because....

Elkhorn NEST is the BEST because....

Prunedale NEST is the BEST because....

Middle School NEST is the BEST because....

The NEST Secondary Program (Middle & High School) went on a field trip on Monday, October 12th. Both of the schools went to visit the #1 rated museum in San Francisco, The Exploratorium STEAM Public Learning Laboratory. One of the attractions open to the group was The Human Phenomena Exhibit. It allowed our NEST students to experiment with thoughts, feelings, and social behavior.

High School NEST is the BEST because....