SCESD Shines

Dear SCESD Community,

As we head into Spring Break, I want to take a moment to acknowledge something that many in our community may be reflecting on. Like many of you, I am holding a heavy heart as I learn of recent allegations connected to César Chávez, particularly within agricultural and Latino communities. For generations, his legacy has represented courage, sacrifice, and the pursuit of justice. Hearing these allegations can bring a range of emotions, including confusion, disappointment, and even pain.

As educators, and as a community, we are often called to hold both truth and complexity. We can acknowledge that individuals may be flawed, while also affirming that the values of dignity, justice, and advocacy for others remain deeply important and continue to guide our work each day.

Above all, we want to be clear about what we stand for. In Salinas City Elementary School District, we are unwavering in our commitment to the safety, dignity, and well-being of every child and every adult in our community. Our students must always know that they are safe, that their voices matter, and that trusted adults are here to listen and support them.

At the same time, we recognize that this moment may prompt thoughtful reflection about how we honor history and how we move forward together. For this school year, César Chávez Day will continue to be observed as a holiday on April 6, as reflected in our current school calendar and agreements with labor partners.

Looking ahead, we will be engaging with our labor partners in the coming weeks to thoughtfully review the 2026–27 school calendar. This will include reflecting on how, and whether, this day is observed within our collective bargaining agreements, and ensuring that any future decisions are grounded in our shared values, our commitments, and the voices of our community.

Moments like this remind us that education is not only about what we teach, but how we lead an live through complexity with care, honesty, and respect for one another.

As we move into Spring Break, I hope this time offers each of you space to rest, recharge, and reconnect with what brings you joy. Thank you for the trust you place in us and for the partnership we share in supporting every child, every day.

Warmly,

Rebeca Andrade, Ed.D.

March 23-27: Spring Break and Spring Intersession Camp. See flyers below for details.

March 30-April 2: School resumes March 30, and "March Madness" Attendance Power Week takes place.

April 3: District holiday, no school or After School program, District Office also closed.

April 6: State holiday observed, no school or After School program, District Office also closed.

April 14: Board of Trustees meeting takes place at the District Office.

The District's Extended Learning Department is planning a great week with Spring Intersession Camp. Our theme is "Score Big: Sports, Stats & Smarts" that blends movement, math and imagination. Camp runs from 8am-5pm each day of Spring Break, and includes breakfast, lunch and dinner. Transportation will be provided to the two host sites.

See flyers below for details!

Did you know? Our Attendance Dashboard gives a real-time look at how students are showing up for learning across our schools. With just a click on the image below or this link, you can explore attendance patterns for each school and see how we are doing as a district. By sharing this information openly, we invite our community to stay connected to the daily rhythm of our schools and join us in supporting strong attendance so every student can thrive.

Please use this link, or click the photo below to view the Dashboard.

When school resumes after Spring Break, we will have a four-day week, as April 3 is a Districtwide holiday and April 6 is a statewide holiday. The District and schools are planning a series of friendly, competitive events with an "Attendance Madness" theme, all aimed at building energy and excitement about being at school.