The SMMUSD Wave- May 2026
Dear Parents, Guardians, Staff, Students and Community Members,
As we enter the final stretch of the 2025-26 school year, our campuses are filled with celebration, reflection and moments of growth. From student showcases and performances to field trips, athletic competitions, promotions and graduations, I continue to be inspired by the joy, resilience and pride our students bring to their schools and communities each day.
This season is a powerful reminder of the importance of belonging. When students feel seen, supported and connected, they thrive. Across our schools, students are demonstrating curiosity as they ask thoughtful questions, explore new ideas and challenge themselves academically and creatively. With each milestone reached, our students continue to grow in confidence and empowerment as they prepare for the next chapter of their educational journey.
I encourage you to visit your school’s website for information regarding end-of-year events, concerts, promotions and graduation ceremonies. These moments provide meaningful opportunities to celebrate the hard work, perseverance and achievements that have defined this school year.
As we close out the year, I also want to remind families that attendance remains important through the very last day of school. Every school day matters and continues to provide valuable opportunities for learning, connection and growth.
The last day of school for the 2025-26 school year is Thursday, June 11, 2026. I look forward to celebrating alongside many of you in the coming weeks and honoring the incredible accomplishments of our students.
Sincerely,
Dr. Antonio Shelton
Superintendent
You can read prior Superintendent Messages here.
Franklin Elementary School
Grant Elementary School
Lincoln Middle School
Malibu Elementary School
Webster Elementary School
Will Rogers Learning Community
A Statement from Dr. Antonio Shelton Regarding Online Information About Elementary Music Program Discussions
Dear Parents, Guardians, Staff, Students and Community Members,
In recent weeks, questions and concerns have been raised regarding ongoing discussions surrounding the elementary music program and the use of Measure R funding. We recognize the deep passion our community has for music education and appreciate the engagement, advocacy and feedback shared throughout this process.
At the same time, information circulating online and on social media has, in some cases, created confusion regarding what has been proposed, what decisions have or have not been made and how Measure R funding supports music education across the District.
We want to provide additional clarification regarding the current status of these discussions and several topics that have recently been shared publicly.
Read the full message here: https://bit.ly/VAPAWebsiteMisinformation052726.
A Statement from Dr. Antonio Shelton on Launching the District’s Instructional Technology Working Group
Dear Staff, Families, Students and Community Members,
As technology continues to rapidly evolve in our world and classrooms, our District recognizes the importance of engaging in thoughtful conversations about how technology impacts teaching, learning and student wellness. To support this work, we are launching an Instructional Technology Working Group that will meet over the next several months to examine important topics related to student screen time, instructional technology and Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in schools.
The purpose of this working group is to thoughtfully explore how instructional technology can be used purposefully, meaningfully and in developmentally appropriate ways that support both student learning and wellness. As Generative AI continues to emerge in educational settings, this group will also examine opportunities, challenges, ethical considerations and future implications for students and staff.
Read the full message here: https://bit.ly/InstructionalTechnologyWorkingGroup-SMMUSD.
A Statement from Dr. Antonio Shelton on Continuing the Current Elementary School Music Model for the 2026-2027 School Year
Dear SMMUSD Families and Community,
Thank you for the thoughtful feedback, input and advocacy you have shared regarding elementary music education in our schools. We deeply value the perspectives of our students, families, staff and community members, and we appreciate the time so many have taken to engage in this conversation.
Based on the feedback received, the District will continue the current elementary music model for the 2026–2027 school year. This includes maintaining the standard 3rd–5th grade music format and schedule with nine music teachers serving our schools. Continuing the current structure will provide stability for students and staff while also allowing the District time to thoughtfully develop an expansion plan and pilot potential enhancements throughout the school year. The elementary music team has scheduled daylong meetings this June to begin to plan and discuss music programming.
Read the full message here: https://bit.ly/VAPAContinuedElemSchoolMusic052226.
SMMUSD Board of Education Reviews 2025-2026 Third Budget Revision
The Third Budget Revision follows the second interim budget special meeting held March 11 and features a thorough breakdown on the variance between both periods. The revision is part of the District’s routine financial review and annual budget reporting cycle. It provides a current overview of the District’s financial position as of April 30, and includes an analysis of standards and assumptions for financial reporting set by the state.
Read more here: https://bit.ly/ThirdBudgetRevision20252026.
A Statement from Dr. Antonio Shelton on the Use of Technology and Digital Tools in the Classroom
Dear Santa Monica-Malibu Community,
Our teachers are true instructional leaders who develop the lessons our students engage with everyday. Teachers drive instruction. SMMUSD’s approach to using technology and digital tools in the classroom is to supplement our teachers, who remain at the center of our classroom environment.
When our educators integrate devices like Chromebooks or other digital platforms into their curriculum, they do so with the intention and purpose of enhancing student learning.
Chromebooks entered our classrooms and were an instrumental tool during the pandemic to ensure our students were able to continue their education during an unprecedented time. Now that we are back in the classroom holding in-person learning everyday, there are concerns about the continued use of Chromebooks, and allowing students to use YouTube during the school day..
Read more here: https://bit.ly/UseOfTechUpdateMay2026.
SMMUSD Shares Update on Elementary Music Program Review, Emphasizes Expansion and Equity
The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) held its regularly-scheduled Visual and Performing Arts District Advisory Committee (VAPA DAC) meeting April 29, where District staff shared an update on the ongoing review of the elementary music program and engaged in dialogue with committee members and the community.
The discussion focused on a draft proposal under consideration that aims to expand access to music education for students in Transitional Kindergarten through second grade, while also strengthening how music instruction is sequenced to support long-term student success.
Read more here: https://bit.ly/VAPADACMeetingRecap042926.
Olympic High School Earns California Model Schools Award
The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) proudly recognizes Olympic High School for receiving the California Model Schools Award and designation during a ceremony held May 2.
Read more here: https://bit.ly/OHSModelSchoolAward2026.
John Adams Middle School Student Receives Marian Huhn Memorial Award for Excellence and Service
John Adams Middle School (JAMS) eighth-grade student Steven Hernandez has been named a regional recipient of the Marian Huhn Memorial Award, recognizing his academic excellence and service to both his school and the broader community.
Read more here: https://bit.ly/StevenHernandezCJSF2026.
2026 Sustainable Santa Monica Student Poster Contest
SMMUSD students were among those recognized in the 2026 Sustainable Santa Monica Student Poster Contest, presented by the City of Santa Monica and Sustainable Works. This year's theme, “Reducing Emissions While Creating Resilient Communities,” encouraged students to explore sustainability through art. SMMUSD students earning recognition included:
Kindergarten-2nd Grade
Grand Prize: Phoebe Kaiser, Grant Elementary School
Second Place: Reina Bustamante, Grant Elementary School
Third Place: Sophia Berry, Grant Elementary School
Honorable Mention: Beatrice Suchkova, Grant Elementary School
3rd-5th Grade
Grand Prize: Daenerys Smith, Grant Elementary School
Second Place: Juniper Cogswell, Grant Elementary School
Third Place: Emily Yin, Grant Elementary School
Honorable Mention: Amelia Chen, Grant Elementary School
6th-8th Grade
Grand Prize: Eloise Alexopoulos, John Adams Middle School
Third Place: Angelica Huang, John Adams Middle School
9th-12th Grade
Grand Prize: Mia Patricio-Ramirez, Santa Monica High School
Second Place: Graciela Buccioni, Santa Monica High School
Third Place: Sasha Lu, Santa Monica High School
Honorable Mention: Genesis Buezo, Santa Monica High School
Read more here.
(Photo by Kathleen Murphy)
Gabrielle “Gabby” Smith, Malibu High School ‘23
Meet Gabrielle “Gabby” Smith, a Malibu High School Class of 2023 alumna whose passion for travel, conservation and lifelong learning has taken her from Australia to South Africa and beyond. Currently studying at the University of Montana, Smith is pursuing multidisciplinary studies in GIS, photojournalism, wildlife conservation and business management while embracing opportunities that continue to push her beyond her comfort zone and expand her perspective on the world.
Read more here: https://bit.ly/GabbySmith-Spotlgiht.
Mental Health Awareness Month
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and John Adams Middle School is leading with care, connection and community.
Students and staff recently came together for a Mental Health Awareness celebration highlighting the systems of support that help every student thrive. The event reinforced the importance of building strong relationships, creating safe and inclusive spaces, and ensuring students feel seen, supported and empowered every day.
Together, we are reminding students that mental health matters and support is always within reach.
Learn more about student wellness in SMMUSD: https://www.smmusd.org/departments/mental-health/mental-health-services.
Supporting Student Wellness at Lincoln
Lincoln Middle School proudly hosted a Mental Health and Wellness Fair focused on supporting the well-being of students and the broader school community. Students connected with valuable resources, participated in meaningful activities and explored the importance of mental health and self-care. Special thanks to Lincoln’s counseling team for organizing the event and continuing to foster a supportive, caring environment for all students.
Connecting Families to Learning and Resources
Dr. Frank Dussan, Director of Student Services, met with Malibu schools families for an instructional event focused on using the District website to access school information, review protocols and learn about educational practices.
Bike It! Walk It! Bus It! Week
Bike It! Walk It! Bus It! celebrations took place May 4-8 across SMMUSD with block parties at John Adams Middle School (JAMS), Will Rogers Learning Community, Grant Elementary School and Franklin Elementary School. Students, staff and families participated in events highlighting alternative ways to get to school, including walking, biking and public transit. Congratulations to Grant Elementary, Lincoln Grade 7 and JAMS Grade 7 for topping the charts in this month’s challenge!
JAMS Topping Off Ceremony
On April 30, we celebrated the topping off ceremony for the new STEM building at John Adams Middle School with Superintendent Dr. Antonio Shelton, students, school leadership, Board of Education members and community partners in attendance. The milestone marks continued progress on a facility designed to support innovative hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Once completed, the building will provide students with expanded opportunities to learn, collaborate and engage in future-ready instruction.
Samohi Education Tour
Parents, students, staff and community members recently participated in the Samohi Education Tour, where attendees explored new and modernized learning spaces across campus. Guests learned about programs in STEM, the arts, health sciences and social studies, and heard from students and staff about how these spaces are supporting hands-on learning and helping move education forward.
OPSH Westward Movement
Ocean Park School House (formerly SMASH) welcomed students and their families for an exhibition of learning showcasing their Westward Movement project-based learning work in the school’s new multipurpose room. The program covers the history of the American West, the concept of Manifest Destiny and the impact on Native Americans.
Leading With Heart at Webster Elementary School
Webster Elementary School proudly celebrated Juanae Johnson, recipient of the Optimist Club of Malibu Ronald E. Merriman Excellence in Education Award, recognizing educators who embody excellence in teaching and leadership. Presented by SMMUSD Board Member Stacy Rouse, the honor highlighted Johnson’s lasting impact on students through her creativity, compassion and commitment to fostering confidence and belonging in the classroom. A proud Santa Monica High School alumna, Johnson continues to inspire the next generation through her leadership, authenticity and dedication to the Webster community.
Curiosity Took Center Stage at Grant’s Science Fair
Grant Elementary School students showcased their creativity, innovation and love of learning during the 2026 Science Fair, presenting projects that explored everything from marine-safe sunscreen and milk plastic to DNA extraction and paper towel absorbency. The event highlighted the curiosity and scientific thinking of students across all grade levels while bringing together families, teachers, volunteers and community members in support of hands-on learning. A special thank you goes to Cynthia Leonard and the many staff members, judges and volunteers whose dedication helped make this year’s Science Fair such a memorable success.
Celebrating Earth Day Week at Edison Language Academy
Edison Language Academy students celebrated Earth Day Week through hands-on learning focused on sustainability and environmental stewardship. Fifth grade students helped design and plant upstairs garden planters with water-wise native plants, while students across campus learned about water conservation during a schoolwide assembly.
Cinco de Mayo at Will Rogers Learning Community
Color, culture and community came together at Will Rogers Learning Community’s Cinco de Mayo celebration. Students, families and staff enjoyed a vibrant festival filled with music, dance and traditions that reflect the rich cultural heritage honored on this day.
Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s victory at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, and today serves as an opportunity to celebrate Mexican culture and history.
Thank you to the Will Rogers community for creating such a joyful and meaningful event.
Congratulations to Ben Ross! From Samohi’s stage to Broadway’s biggest night!
Congratulations to Samohi Class of 2016 alum Ben Levi Ross (@benlross) on his 2026 Tony Award nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical for “Ragtime.”
A proud alum of Santa Monica High School’s theatre and choir programs, Ben previously starred as “Jack” in Samohi’s 2013 production of “Into the Woods.”
We are proud to celebrate this incredible milestone and wish Ben the best at the Tony Awards.
Celebrating a Milestone for Lincoln’s Multilingual Scholars
Lincoln Middle School celebrated students who achieved reclassification as Multilingual Scholars, recognizing their hard work, perseverance and dedication in reaching this important milestone. The celebration highlighted the strength and resilience multilingual students bring to the school community each day. Special thanks to Rozita Moazzez, Amanda McCoy, Dinora Duarte and Nallely Gutierrez, along with Lincoln families and staff, for supporting students throughout their journey.
Webster Students Reach New Heights at AstroCamp
Webster Elementary School fourth grade students returned from AstroCamp in Idyllwild-Pine filled with new knowledge, confidence and unforgettable memories after an immersive outdoor science experience. Through hands-on STEM activities including rocket launches, electricity experiments and Mars-inspired simulations, students explored science in action while building teamwork, resilience and problem-solving skills. The trip also fostered personal growth and connection, creating meaningful experiences that students will carry with them long after leaving camp.
SMMUSD Names Elizabeth Cangelosi as New Facility Use Manager
Elizabeth Cangelosi joined SMMUSD as Facility Use Manager on May 18. In her role, she oversees the scheduling, coordination and permitting of district facilities for school, community and performing arts use.
Read more here.
Santa Monica Education Foundation (SMEF)
Attn: Rising 11th- and 12th-grade families
Now is the time to secure your student’s spot in the online College Essay Writing Workshop, led by Samohi English teacher Kyle Koehler. In a supportive, small-group setting, students will craft a strong, standout college essay and leave with a polished working draft in just one week. Sessions are filling quickly, so sign up now to set your rising senior up for success!
For more information or to sign up, click here. (Scholarships available.)
“My daughter gained so much value from 1) being on task to write and revise one prompt a day, 2) getting critical and candid feedback from the teacher, and 3) providing and receiving peer feedback. This workshop accomplished more than I expected. Mr. Koehler not only gave her a great jumping-off point for her PIQs and Common App essay prompts, but more importantly reinforced in her, her ability to write with specificity and candor to make her answers personal and unique.” - Parent (Summer 2025)
Summer Adventure
Attn: Rising TK-6 grade parents
There are still a few spaces left for Summer Adventure. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity for students to explore, create and grow in this five-week enrichment program.
Monday, June 22-Friday, July 24, at Roosevelt Elementary
For more information, visit summer-adventure.org or email info@summer-adventure.org.
Malibu Education Foundation (MEF)
Thank You From the Malibu Education Foundation
To every family, staff member, neighbor and business that gave this year, thank you. Your support funded staff for arts, athletics and academics across our four schools and helped our community recover and grow. And congratulations to the MHS Class of 2026. Your resilience will carry you far.
A few easy ways to continue supporting Malibu schools:
- Dine out. Our Food for Thought partners, OLLO, Marmalade Cafe, Howdy Malibu, Malibu Sushi by Howdy and Prince Street Pizza, donate 10% of sales to our students on the third Tuesday of each month. (All day, no code needed.)
- Leave a legacy. Dedication plaques ($2,000) are available at the Mike Mulligan Pool Deck, Malibu Middle School Quad and Arlene & Dick Van Dyke Theater, invested into endowments that fund our pool, quad and the arts for generations. Info → malibueducationfoundation.org
- Save the date. Gala: Oct. 10, 2026, and Malibu Moves: Oct. 24-25. Use code MEF26 for 10% off and 10% back to MEF. Register at malibumoves.com and join Team MEF.
Summer is coming, but MEF works year-round so our students have what they need to succeed.
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