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TTUSD District Update

May/June 2025

TTUSD District Update May/June 2025
TTUSD District UpdateMay/June 2025

In this Month's Newsletter In this Month's Newsletter

  • A Message from the Superintendent
  • District Strategic Plan Check-In: Year 2 Accomplishments

Academic Achievement

  • Last Days of School: Important Reminders
  • Discover the Superpowers of Alder Creek Middle School!
  • Donner Trail Elementary: Becoming “Trackers” of the Yuba River
  • Parent Data Confirmation in August

Support Systems

  • Celebrating Our 2025 TTUSD Employees of the Year!

  • Decades of Dedication: Our 2024-2025 Retirees!

  • STOPit: Empowering Our Community for a Safer School

  • Apply Now for 2025-2026 Bus Passes!

  • TTUSD Athletes: Prepare for the Next Season

Community Connections

  • A Mountain of Gratitude to Our Ski Resort Partners!

  • Measure AA Update: Your Dollars at Work!

A Message from the Superintendent A Message from the Superintendent

Dear TTUSD Families,


As the 2024-2025 school year ends, I want to thank you for your incredible partnership. It takes a community – families, staff, and dedicated partners – to empower our students to reach their potential. Thanks to your collective hard work, dedication, and collaborative spirit, we've created another year filled with growth and learning.


To every student, congratulations on your hard work and amazing achievements! You've shown resilience and determination. And to our graduating seniors, a special congratulations! We are immensely proud of your accomplishments and eagerly anticipate your bright futures. Please remember, the doors of TTUSD are always open; come back, say hello, and keep us posted on your adventures – we're honored to have been a part of your journey into adulthood.


Last week brought some heartwarming moments with our Elementary School Grad Walks. Be sure to check out a few photos and videos of our graduating seniors, full of joy and pride, returning to their old campuses to parade in their caps and gowns. This tradition celebrates their achievements and offers our younger students a glimpse into the exciting future that awaits them.


I wish you all a safe, healthy, and fun summer filled with cherished moments and well-deserved rest. We look forward to welcoming you back for another school year in August!


Warm Regards,
Kerstin Kramer
Superintendent Chief Learning Officer

Tahoe Lake Elementary Grad Walk
Glenshire Elem. Grad Walk
KBE Grad Walk 2025
Grad Walk Time Machine

District Strategic Plan Check-In: Year 2 Accomplishments District Strategic Plan Check-In: Year 2 Accomplishments

We're excited to share an update on the 2023-2026 District Strategic Plan as we wrap up another year.


At the June 11, 2025, Board of Trustees meeting, Superintendent Kramer presented an overview of staff's actions and accomplishments from the past year. She highlighted Year 2 achievements and offered a glimpse into the Year 3 action items. There's so much to celebrate!

A 2024-2025 Year 2 Strategic Plan Report Card was shared, showing each action item as complete, in progress, or not yet started. Out of 20 action items:


  • 15 have been completed

  • 4 are in progress

  • 1 has not yet started

Here is a look at some of the accomplishments from this past year:


  • New math curricula were supported with staff training and peer learning.

  • Academic Discourse walkthroughs were conducted at all sites.

  • Classified personal development compensation was added to the CSEA contract.

  • Cross-district teacher collaboration continues.

  • A new online staff evaluation tool was implemented.

  • A work-based learning tracking system was established in Aeries, increasing classroom contacts for work-based learning.

  • Career and Technical Education (CTE) collaboration with middle and elementary school representatives occurred.

  • Wellness Center use is being evaluated annually based on established metrics.

  • A social-emotional learning (SEL) screener was identified for piloting in the 2025-2026 school year.

  • Our attendance education campaign, "Attention to Attendance," continued with positive results.

  • Student representation increased at Superintendent Parent Advisory Committee meetings.

  • Social-emotional learning (SEL) committees were established at school sites.

  • Facilities maintenance work has been identified.

  • Staff recognition activities were increased throughout the district.

  • An update to the district emergency operations plan is in progress for completion at the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year.

  • Special Education parent and community meetings focused on community access.

  • A needs assessment survey was conducted to learn about the transition between 5th and 6th grade.

  • Community engagement strategies were implemented in English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC) meetings throughout the district.

  • A community partners resource document is underway to help streamline partnerships.

  • Rideout School was transformed into the TAHOE Lab and Outdoor School.

We invite you to watch Superintendent Kramer's presentation to learn about these accomplishments.


Our focus now shifts to crafting the Year 3 actions, a process already underway by district staff. The original strategic plan task force has reviewed draft actions, and final refinements are being made before Superintendent Kramer presents them to the board on July 30, 2025.

Last Days of School: Important Reminders Last Days of School: Important Reminders

As we approach the last day of school on Monday, June 16th, please note:


  • Friday, June 13th: Minimum day for all middle and high schools.

  • Monday, June 16th: Minimum day for all TTUSD schools.


We look forward to a strong finish to the school year!

Discover the Superpowers of Alder Creek Middle School! Discover the Superpowers of Alder Creek Middle School!

At the April 2, 2025, TTUSD board meeting, Principal Hien Larson and the incredible Alder Creek Middle School (ACMS) team gave us a peek into what makes ACMS truly special. They shared the school's unique "superpowers" – collective passions, strengths, and values that empower students and guide the school's vibrant culture.


ACMS staff identified their superpowers, including integrity, humor, kindness, compassion, and collaboration. These core values set a foundation for a positive school environment where staff members' unique strengths contribute to student success. They also discussed the brain science behind the unique developmental stage of middle schoolers, showing how ACMS creates an environment that embraces individuality, taps into their natural curiosity, and develops crucial skills. They're building a school full of everyday superheroes!


A highlight was hearing from the Latinas Unidas student club. These incredible young women shared how they're developing leadership skills, building confidence, and positively impacting their school. They spoke about organizing an "All Belong" event to raise awareness about immigration issues and rights, showcasing their commitment to creating a welcoming space for everyone. Their presentation, delivered with poise in both English and Spanish, was inspiring!

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Donner Trail Elementary: Becoming “Trackers” of the Yuba River Donner Trail Elementary: Becoming “Trackers” of the Yuba River

Donner Trail Elementary presented at the April 23, 2025, Board meeting on its enhanced outdoor education program. Principal Amy King, alongside proud students, shared their journey, including the exciting decision to adopt "The Donner Trail Trackers" as their new mascot. This identity is rooted in the school’s history with outdoor education and a deep connection to the Yuba River outside their classroom doors.


This year, they embarked on a "year-long experiment" to evolve their outdoor program. They focused on expanding their Yuba River Day tradition into regular "Tracker Days." Once a month, the entire school participates in hands-on learning stations with multi-age groups. Students shared, "We love to learn on the go!", perfectly capturing the spirit of these engaging days. Teachers integrate lessons and skills, while community partners like VILDA Outdoors, South Yuba River Citizens League, Headwater Science Institute, Bear League, and the Lahontan Audubon Society provide invaluable expertise.


A cornerstone of the program is multi-age learning, where older students mentor younger ones, fostering leadership, confidence, and deeper understanding. Students record observations in their "Tracker Journals," learning to measure river and snow temperatures, test water health, and understand their local ecosystem. Thanks to an Excellence in Education Grant, game cameras are set up to track local animal visitors. Donner Trail's "Tracker Days" exemplify many TTUSD strategic plan initiatives, especially outdoor education and learning from our natural environment.


The presentation wrapped up with a powerful message from the fourth—and fifth-grade classes. They said Donner Trail's identity is "magic," creating a bond that is built on respect, acceptance, and learning from mistakes. They emphasized their flexibility and perseverance, like the Yuba River, and their deep connection to teachers, community, and wildlife.

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Parent Data Confirmation in August Parent Data Confirmation in August

As we prepare for the 2025-2026 school year, please keep an eye on your inbox! We'll send an email at the beginning of August with important information about Parent Data Confirmation. Completing this required process makes sure we have the most up-to-date information for your student.

Celebrating Our 2025 TTUSD Employees of the Year! Celebrating Our 2025 TTUSD Employees of the Year!

Join us in a round of applause for our 2025 TTUSD Employees of the Year! These exceptional individuals were nominated by their colleagues and recognized through the California School Recognition Program for consistently going above and beyond for our students and community.


We are incredibly proud to announce the winners, who were honored at the Placer County Office of Education's annual Awards Reception. Please join us in celebrating their dedication and hard work!

  • Erin Smith | K-8 Teacher of the Year
  • Kate Teller | 9-12 Teacher of the Year
  • Rachel Koles | School Counselor of the Year
  • Blanca Carrillo | Classified Employee of the Year - Clerical & Administrative Services
  • Salvador Guerrero | Classified Employee of the Year - Custodial & Maintenance Services
  • Julia Nunez | Classified Employee of the Year - Food & Nutrition Services
  • Irene Gomez | Classified Employee of the Year - Health & Student Services
  • Teresa Ketron | Classified Employee of the Year - Paraprofessional Services
  • Keenan Mock | Classified Employee of the Year - Technical Services
  • Scott Heckendorn | Classified Employee of the Year - Transportation Services

Decades of Dedication: Our 2024-2025 Retirees! Decades of Dedication: Our 2024-2025 Retirees!

We were thrilled to honor a truly special group: the members of our TTUSD family embarking on well-deserved retirements! At the May 21st Board Meeting, we celebrated these incredible individuals who collectively represent over 346 years of service to TTUSD.


Each team member listed below has poured their passion and talent into our schools, shaping the lives of countless students and enriching our community for years. They've dedicated their careers to our students and district, leaving an indelible mark.


We are deeply grateful for their years of service. We encourage you to watch the celebration and hear the heartfelt tributes, highlighting each retiree's impact.


Join us in extending our gratitude as they embrace this exciting new chapter. We wish them a retirement filled with joy, relaxation, and happiness!

  • Dow Higginbotham | District Office | Facilities, Maintenance and Operations | 38 Years of Service
  • Ingrid Bourke | Tahoe Lake Elementary School | Teacher | 34 Years of Service
  • Michelle Reed | Donner Trail Elementary School | Teacher | 34 Years of Service
  • Scott Everist | North Tahoe High School | Teacher | 30 Years of Service
  • Rob Koster | District Office | Facilities, Maintenance and Operations | 25 Years of Service
  • Deborah McKechnie | Glenshire Elementary School | Secretary | 24 Years of Service
  • Andrea Batie | Glenshire Elementary School | Teacher | 23 Years of Service
  • Jennifer Smith | Truckee High School | Teacher | 23 Years of Service
  • Maggie Bockius | Alder Creek Middle School | Teacher | 22 Years of Service
  • Jane Miller | Glenshire Elementary School | Teacher | 22 Years of Service
  • Karen Rathbun | District Office | Business Services | 18 Years of Service
  • Jody Burrill | Truckee High School | Teacher | 13 Years of Service
  • Tamara Chisholm | Truckee High School | Teacher | 13 Years of Service
  • Charlene Desler | North Tahoe School | Library Media Assistant | 12 Years of Service
  • Desiree Jones | Transportation | Bus Driver | 10 Years of Service
  • Mindi Brenner | District Office | Educational Services | 5 Years of Service

STOPit: Empowering Our Community for a Safer School STOPit: Empowering Our Community for a Safer School

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We're excited to introduce STOPit, an anonymous reporting app that empowers students and parents to contribute to a safer school environment. We encourage talking directly to school staff, but we also understand there are times when anonymous reporting feels safer.


With STOPit, our school community can:


  • Anonymously report concerns: Including bullying, self-harm, inappropriate behaviors, and safety concerns.

  • Submit photo or video evidence.

  • Access the 24/7 Crisis Text Line: For immediate support, day or night.

  • Connect directly with school leaders.

  • Request wellness checks from law enforcement when needed.


STOPit is now on all student Chromebooks and can be downloaded to personal devices through the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Our schools provided age-appropriate training to ensure effective and responsible use.


This app strengthens our existing safety measures, ensuring no incident goes unreported. We urge families to download STOPit and discuss it with their children. Thank you for your partnership in creating a safe and supportive environment for all our students.

Summer Parent Workshops: Data Confirmation Support Summer Parent Workshops: Data Confirmation Support

As you prepare for the 2025-2026 school year, remember you can complete Parent Data Confirmation at home once it opens. However, if you'd like in-person support, we're excited to once again offer four (4) Summer Parent Workshops in August!


Join our multilingual TTUSD staff for assistance with:


  • Parent Data Confirmation

  • Free and Reduced Meal Applications (available starting July 1st at www.linqconnect.com – all meals are free, but applying can unlock additional significant benefits!)

  • Bus Information

  • Volunteer sign-ups and free fingerprinting (bring a valid U.S. ID if you are interested in volunteering!)

Workshop Schedule

  • Truckee Elementary School Gym: August 12 & 13, from 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM
  • Kings Beach Elementary School Gym: August 19 & 20, from 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM

We'll have Chromebooks and supervised activities for children, and every student who attends will receive a free book courtesy of Excellence in Education!

Apply Now for 2025-2026 Bus Passes! Apply Now for 2025-2026 Bus Passes!

Heads up, families! An important email regarding 2025-2026 bus pass applications was sent on May 21st. A new, school-specific application is required for each student. To secure your child's seat for next year, please check your email for the link and full details, or visit our district website to apply by the July 31st deadline.

TTUSD Athletes: Prepare for Next Season TTUSD Athletes: Prepare for Next Season

Thank you for understanding as we navigate the evolving requirements for student-athlete participation. Your flexibility and support are greatly appreciated during this ever-evolving situation.


Aktivate is now open for TTUSD athletes who plan to try out and compete in sports in the upcoming 2025/2026 school year!

All Athletes

Register with Aktivate: Every athlete needs an active Aktivate account (www.registermyathlete.com) to try out and play. We recommend registering by July 29th.

High School Athletes

  • Football practice starts on July 28th, with other fall sports beginning in early August. Please ensure your student-athlete is ready!

  • Annual Physicals: All high school student-athletes must have a current physical to try out.

  • NEW NIAA Physical Form: The most current NIAA physical form is uploaded into Aktivate and must be used.

  • Where to Get Your Physical (Updated Tahoe Forest Health System Guidance): On May 30, 2025, Tahoe Forest Health System provided updated information regarding their ability to complete the new NIAA physical forms. They notified us that:


"Tahoe Forest Health System providers will be allowed to sign the new NIAA form if they are comfortable doing so. As medical professionals, their obligation is solely to the health and wellness of their patients, not to verify personal information. Genital examinations are not performed as part of pre-participation sports physicals. Additionally, we will not require a birth certificate to be presented. Our providers will rely on the student and/or his or her parents/guardians to self-proclaim their eligibility for sports participation.”


  • Students can work with their primary care provider for a full Well Child exam through insurance or get a sports physical through the Urgent Care facility for a fee. They are also working to organize dedicated events where TTUSD athletes can have their forms completed. Those dates and times will be shared when they are available.
  • Expiration Dates Matter: Aktivate will not accept physicals that expire during a respective sports season. Please ensure the physical is valid for the entirety of the season of participation. Getting physicals between May 30th and August 1st is strongly encouraged to ensure the physical is valid for the entire school year.

Middle School Athletes

  • First-Time Physicals: The first time a middle school student tries out for a sport, they need a current physical on file.

  • OLD NIAA Physical Forms Accepted: Middle school athletes participate in the Tah-Neva League. At this time, the Tah-Neva League will continue to allow the old NIAA physical forms to be used. These forms have been uploaded into Aktivate and can be completed by TFHD providers and other licensed physicians.

  • Annual Encouragement: After that initial physical, it's strongly encouraged to get one each year, ideally within the May 30th to August 1st window, to ensure it’s valid for the entire school year.

  • Incoming 9th Graders: Remember, incoming ninth graders must meet the high school requirement of an annual physical on file and use the new NIAA form.

Please reach out to your coach if you have any questions.

A Mountain of Gratitude to Our Ski Resort Partners! A Mountain of Gratitude to Our Ski Resort Partners!

On behalf of the entire school district, we want to extend a huge thank you to Achieve Tahoe, Palisades Tahoe, Northstar California, Sugar Bowl, Royal Gorge, Boreal, Auburn Ski Club, Tahoe XC, and Tahoe Donner Cross Country for their winter collaborations. Their dedication, expertise, and generosity allowed students to experience the joy of downhill and cross-country skiing this past season.


For many, this was a first-time experience, highlighting the unique opportunities our mountain community provides. Whether introducing students to the slopes, fostering a love for downhill skiing, guiding them through scenic cross-country trails, or getting our students with disabilities on the snow through the incredible programs at Achieve Tahoe, our partners created unforgettable memories. Watching students build skills and confidence in our winter wonderland was inspiring.


We're incredibly grateful for their commitment to student learning and safety. Their partnership enriches our students' lives, connecting them to our region’s natural beauty and ensuring every child experiences our stunning winter landscape. Thank you for these lasting memories!

Measure AA Update: Your Dollars at Work! Measure AA Update: Your Dollars at Work!

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Our Measure AA Citizens Oversight Committee wrapped up its final meeting for the school year on April 29th. We're happy to share that Hayden Pruitt was elected as the committee chairperson for next year.


Measure AA, a voter-approved $148 parcel tax, provides crucial funding for our schools, and we are incredibly grateful for your continued support! During the meeting, we heard how this funding directly impacts our students at Donner Trail Elementary and Alder Creek Middle School.

Donner Trail Elementary School

Donner Trail Elementary received $81,630 for 2024-2025. These funds provide partial funding for a counselor, STEAM, and PE teacher, and support vital programs and supplies such as:


  • Instructional Materials: Books like "The Wild Robot" and school essentials.

  • PE Equipment: New badminton, pickleball, and baseball gear.

  • Technology: DreamBox Math, a portable laminator, and sheets.

  • Emotional/Social Learning: Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) materials and Wellness Center supplies.

  • Science: Supplies for River Day and Tracker Days.

  • Library & Music: Reading programs, new books, drumsticks, and play materials.

Alder Creek Middle School

ACMS received $782,683 for 2024-2025. This significant funding supports academic enhancement teachers such as Spanish, science, technology, PE, music, and partially funds two counselors and provides a $3,680 music stipend. It also supports:


  • Music: Instruments, repairs, books, and supplies.

  • Technology: A 3-D printer, supplies, ink, and general classroom tech.

  • Instructional Materials/Supplies: A wide range of classroom essentials.

  • Academic Enhancement: Social Studies classroom supplies.

  • PE Equipment: Balls, uniforms, and various gear.

  • Library Materials: New book sets and essential supplies.

  • Science: Live organisms, microscopes, field trip support for all grades, and project supplies.

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We are so grateful for your continued support of Measure AA, thank you!

Tahoe Truckee Unified School District
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