The SMMUSD Wave- Nov. 2025
Dear Parents, Guardians, Staff, Students and Community Members,
November is a time to reflect on gratitude and community. This season gives us a chance to recognize the values that bring us together and the commitment we share to support every student, family and staff member in the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD).
I am pleased to share an important update about our facilities. SMMUSD has announced Ocean Park School House as the new school name for the neighborhood school in Ocean Park. The Board of Education approved the name at its Oct. 7 regular board meeting. The remodeled campus replaces the former John Muir Elementary and SMASH site, which closed in June 2022, and has been modernized through improvements funded by Measures SMS and QS. As part of planned transitions connected to this project, Olympic High School and the Off Campus Learning Center will move to Ocean Park School House for the spring semester, and SMASH will move to the modernized campus for the 2026-2027 school year. More details are available on our website or below.
I also want to share a brief update on the Malibu unification process. SMMUSD and the City of Malibu are preparing for important public meetings in December 2025 in which both governing bodies will consider three foundational agreements that outline the financial, operational and governance structures for two future independent districts. These agreements are the Property Tax Revenue Sharing Agreement, the Operational Transfer Agreement and the Joint Powers Agreement. Each represents a major milestone in a long-term effort centered on equity, fairness and high-quality education for all students. You can read more about the process and upcoming meetings on our website or below.
Our campuses are full of activity as we move into the holiday season. Students are leading food drives, community service projects, concerts and performances that highlight their creativity and compassion. These moments remind us why our work matters and how our students continue to grow when they feel connected and supported.
As we look ahead to Giving Tuesday on Dec. 2, I encourage you to support the Santa Monica Education Foundation and the Malibu Education Foundation. Your generosity directly supports programs that enrich the educational experience of all students. You can find more information in the Education Foundation Corner below.
With Thanksgiving recess beginning on Wed., Nov. 26, I want to express my sincere appreciation for your partnership and dedication. Thank you for all you do to ensure SMMUSD remains a place where students feel inspired to learn and grow.
I wish you and your loved ones a restful and safe holiday break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back on Mon., Dec. 1.
Dr. Antonio Shelton
Superintendent
You can read prior Superintendent Messages here.
Franklin Elementary School
Malibu Elementary School
Malibu High School
Project Based Learning (PBL) Pathway
Roosevelt Elementary School
Will Rogers Learning Community
Malibu Unification Process Reaches Pivotal Stage: December Votes Set on Key Separation Agreements
The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) and the City of Malibu are taking a major step toward their shared goal of forming two independent school districts, the Malibu Unified School District (MUSD) and the Santa Monica Unified School District (SMUSD), through the unification process. Two special public meetings are planned in December 2025 to update the community and allow each governing body to vote on three foundational agreements essential to the separation process.
Read more here: https://bit.ly/UnificationUpdate111825.
SMMUSD Announces New Name for Neighborhood School in Ocean Park, Campus Relocation Plans
The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) has announced Ocean Park School House as the new school name for the neighborhood school in Ocean Park. The Board of Education approved the school name at its Oct. 7 regular board meeting.
Ocean Park School House replaces the former John Muir Elementary/Santa Monica Alternative School House (SMASH) facility, located at 2526 6th Street, which closed in June 2022. The campus has been remodeled through improvements funded by Measures SMS and QS.
SMMUSD will relocate schools over winter break in preparation for the spring semester, and over summer break in preparation for the 2026-2027 school year.
Read more here.
SMMUSD Students Honored by National Merit Scholarship Program
The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) is thrilled to congratulate five National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists and 29 Commended Students who have been recognized for academic excellence. These students rank among the top-scoring participants in the National Merit Scholarship Program, a distinction achieved by less than 4% of entrants nationwide.
Out of 1.5 million entrants, about 50,000 with the highest Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) and National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test scores qualify for recognition in the National Merit Scholarship Program as semifinalists and commended students.
Read more here: https://bit.ly/NationalMerit2025.
Wicked Actor Marissa Bode Connects with Students at JAMS Boys & Girls Club
The John Adams Middle School (JAMS) Boys & Girls Club community experienced a meaningful moment of connection when actor Marissa Bode returned to speak with students about representation identity and finding confidence in middle school.
Bode, who plays Nessarose in the upcoming Wicked film adaptation, previously worked at the JAMS Boys & Girls Club. Her visit was coordinated in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica, Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Fandango through the national “Wicked: For Good” campaign, which supports youth programs nationwide.
Read more here: https://bit.ly/MarissaBodeJAMSbgClub.
Photo Courtesy of Boys & Girls Club of Santa Monica.
Sara Greenfield, Lincoln Middle School Teacher
Meet Sara Greenfield, seventh grade English and world history teacher at Lincoln Middle School, who has inspired students for nearly three decades. Through curiosity, connection and thoughtful discussion, Sara helps students find their voice, build confidence and understand their place in the world during a time of rapid change.
Read more here: https://bit.ly/SaraGreenfield-Spotlight.
SMMUSD Celebrates Día de los Muertos
Across SMMUSD, families, students and staff came together for Día de los Muertos celebrations that honored tradition, remembrance and the rich cultural diversity that shapes our schools. From student-led experiences to vibrant performances and meaningful art, each event reflected the heart of who we are as a community. These celebrations remind us of the power of belonging, inclusivity and shared connection. We are grateful to everyone who helped make these moments special.
Celebrating Curiosity and Creativity in Math
Fourteen SMMUSD teachers, teachers on special assignment, instructional coaches and administrators attended the CMC-South Math Conference in Palm Springs, California, Nov. 7-8. The theme was “Celebrating Curiosity and Creativity in Mathematics.”
They returned energized and ready to bring new ideas to classrooms across the district. This learning will support students and help make math even more engaging, joyful and creative in SMMUSD schools.
Celebrating Native American Heritage Month at McKinley Elementary
McKinley Elementary School students enjoyed a special assembly featuring Master Navajo storyteller Richie Castro from Colorado, who captivated the audience with the legend of Kokopelli. The event offered a meaningful way to honor Native American Heritage Month through powerful storytelling and cultural learning.
Day of Awesomeness at John Adams Middle School
John Adams Middle School students recently took part in the Day of Awesomeness, a high-energy field day experience that brought students together for obstacle courses, music and interactive games. The event gave students a chance to have fun, try new activities and build connections with classmates in a supportive environment. Activities inspired by shows like American Ninja Warrior and Wipeout encouraged teamwork, confidence and school spirit. Events like these help strengthen community on campus and create memorable experiences for students throughout the year.
Samohi Orchestras Winter Concert
Samohi Orchestras will present their winter concert on Tuesday, Dec. 9, at 6:30 p.m. in Barnum Hall. Concessions will be open by 5:30 p.m. with tacos, burgers and baked goods for sale, plus a raffle for a chance to conduct the Symphony Orchestra’s performance of “Sleigh Ride” on stage. Tickets are available at samohiorchestras.org, $5 for students and $10 for adults.
Malibu Optimist Club Celebrates Local Students
The Malibu Optimist Club honored students from Malibu Elementary, Webster Elementary, Malibu Middle School and Malibu High School. The event recognized students for their positivity and optimism, uplifting the values of kindness, character and hope during a challenging time.
Thank you to the Malibu Optimist Club for continuing to highlight character, empathy and care within the Malibu community.
McKinley Students Support Community Through Care Kit Drive
In recognition of Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, McKinley Elementary Student Council organized a Care Kit Drive to support unhoused neighbors. The effort reflects the strong sense of community shared by McKinley Lions and highlights the spirit of care students carry forward in their learning and daily actions.
Lincoln Middle School Boys Varsity Flag Football Wins Championship
The Lincoln Middle School Boys Varsity Flag Football team defeated Culver City Middle School to claim the championship. It was an outstanding season for the Lions, and the school community is proud of their hard work and teamwork.
The JAMS Journal
The JAMS Journal, John Adams Middle School’s (JAMS) student-led newspaper, is back with a new edition full of student perspectives, campus highlights and creative storytelling. Our young journalists continue to showcase their voices, curiosity and commitment to keeping their school community informed.
Read the latest edition here.
Jewish Community Alliance Welcomes New Members
The Jewish Community Alliance of SMMUSD is entering its third year and is inviting new members to join. This parent, staff and student group works to promote Jewish cultural identity, support SMMUSD Jewish students, combat antisemitism and foster a sense of community.
Those interested in upcoming events or membership can email JCA.SMMUSD@gmail.com for more information.
SMC Public Policy Institute and Westside School of Ballet Present The Nutcracker
Santa Monica College (SMC) and the Westside School of Ballet are presenting live performances of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker from Nov. 29 to Dec. 7 at The Broad Stage. In partnership with SMMUSD, special shows will give fifth graders the chance to experience classical ballet and orchestral music in a professional theater setting. This annual event brings together SMC musicians and dancers with Westside Ballet to create a magical holiday tradition for families. More information and tickets are available at westsideballet.com.
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Samohi to Host Celebration of New Deal Art and Architecture
The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District and the Santa Monica Conservancy will host a community celebration on Wednesday, Dec. 3 from 4 to 6 p.m. to highlight restored New Deal era art and architecture at Santa Monica High School. The open house will feature Works Progress Administration projects including Barnum Hall, the Viking Statue, the Senior Bench and an art gallery installation of paintings created under the Federal Arts Project, including Conrad Buff’s large-scale work “Westward Ho.”
The event will open with a presentation in Barnum Hall, followed by student guided tours and a reception in the Art Gallery. Parking will be available in the Civic Center lot off 4th Street with campus access through the 4th Street gate.
Malibu Education Foundation (MEF)
Wishing all SMMUSD families a wonderful Thanksgiving.
As the holiday season begins, we invite you to the MEF Holiday Tree Lot, opening Nov. 28 in Malibu. Join us for Community Night on Dec. 12 and Dick Van Dyke’s 100th birthday celebration on Dec. 13, complete with cake and a community card designed by an MHS student.
In honor of his 100th birthday, families can also make a $100 donation to the Van Dyke Endowment for the Arts, supporting arts programming for Malibu students. Donate at donorbox.org/vandyke100. .
More information on the tree lot and other events is available at MalibuEducationFoundation.org.
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