TVUSD COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Walk & Talk with Dr. Velez follows TVUSD Superintendent Dr. Kimberly Velez as she visits school sites across the district, connecting with students and listening to their perspectives. Through real conversations and meaningful moments, the series highlights student voice and the experiences that shape our schools.

In this episode, Dr. Velez visits Chaparral High School and talks with 11th-grader Gianna Caponigro about her commitment to Unified Sports and students with special needs within the Puma community.

This year, our Behind the Scenes: The ♥️ of TVUSD spotlight series shines a light on the incredible certificated and classified employees who elevate experiences, opportunities, and each other across our schools and departments.

Check out this month's spotlight videos to see how our staff bring the spirit of TVUSD to life!

From inspiring student performances to powerful moments of reflection and celebration, our first State of the District captured what makes TVUSD so special.

This highlight video truly reflects the heart of the evening, and the incredible students, staff, and community that make it all possible.

🎬 Watch the full State of the District journey on our YouTube channel.

On March 14th, students from across Temecula Valley Unified School District put their curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking to the test at the Inland Empire Regional Science Olympiad - and their efforts paid off in a big way.

Nine TVUSD schools proudly represented the district at the competition, demonstrating strong participation across all divisions. Temecula Luiseno Elementary School was the district’s sole representative in Division A. In Division B, Temecula Middle School, Bella Vista Middle School, Gardner Middle School, Vail Ranch Middle School, and Margarita Middle School competed with distinction. At the high school level, Great Oak High School, Chaparral High School, and Temecula Valley High School represented TVUSD in Division C. Together, these teams showcased the power of scientific inquiry, collaboration, and perseverance.

One of the standout performances came from Great Oak High School, where students delivered an exceptional showing. Competing against top teams from across the region, Great Oak placed 1st, 3rd, and 11th overall, with an impressive 38 out of 45 students earning at least one medal. In total, the team brought home 89 medals, an incredible testament to their dedication and preparation. Their season has already included competitions at USC, Stanford, and UC San Diego.

Temecula Middle School also celebrated a major milestone, earning a coveted spot at the state competition. Their success wasn’t defined by just a few standout moments, but by the dedication, preparation, and perseverance of all students across every event. From Meteorology and Disease Detectives to Anatomy & Physiology and Boomilever, TMS students showed that perseverance and teamwork can elevate an entire program, understanding the importance of earning every possible point. It was truly a “back-end victory,” where consistent effort, attention to detail, and a team-first mindset kept them climbing in the rankings throughout the day.

Bella Vista Middle School students also made their mark with strong performances in multiple events. Highlights include a 2nd-place finish in Anatomy & Physiology, as well as top placements in Write It Do It. Additional competitors in Heredity demonstrated determination and teamwork, contributing to a strong overall showing for the school.

Congratulations to our students, coaches, and school communities for an exceptional showing at the regional competition. Representing nine schools, TVUSD participants exemplified the true spirit of Science Olympiad by supporting one another, rising to challenges, and applying their knowledge through engaging, hands-on experiences. Their achievements highlight the district’s ongoing commitment to innovation, collaboration, and a love of learning. We are especially proud to celebrate Gardner Middle School and Temecula Middle School, along with Chaparral High School, Great Oak High School, and Temecula Valley High School, for earning advancement to the Science Olympiad State Competition. These teams will represent TVUSD this Saturday, April 11, at Caltech in Pasadena, and we wish them the very best as they take on this next level of competition.

Students from the CHES Composting Club and BES Garden Club recently joined together for a field trip to the TVHS Hillside Project, where they explored the principles of regenerative agriculture through hands-on learning. Students and staff from both sites, the TVUSD Nutrition Services admin team, and the Business Support Services support staff were guided through composting systems, vegetable growing, hydroponics, and more, while also participating in interactive stations featuring chickens, bees, ladybugs, seed planting, and soil health.

This collaborative experience highlighted the power of experiential education and sparked excitement for expanding sustainable agriculture programs and opportunities for our students at all levels.

The Business Services division is looking forward to partnering with our sites to incorporate the educational components of healthy eating habits and composting to create more robust and sustainable opportunities for kids!

Students from Great Oak High School’s girls golf team recently stepped onto a world-class stage at the annual LPGA Pechanga Pro-Am, gaining a one-of-a-kind experience that went far beyond the scorecard.

Held at Pechanga Resort Casino and Journey at Pechanga, the event brought together 25 LPGA professionals, celebrities, and community leaders for a day of competition and giving back. Among them were Great Oak’s Girls' Golf Team, invited to serve as official scorers, placing them just steps away from some of the best golfers in the world.

For the students, the experience offered rare, behind-the-scenes access to professional play. As they walked alongside LPGA athletes, they observed strategy, asked questions, and gained valuable insight into what it takes to compete at the collegiate and professional levels.

“This is incredible access you would not otherwise get,” shared Coach Rachel Reif. “They get to watch the pros right next to them, ask those questions.”

That access made a lasting impression. Students described the opportunity as both inspiring and eye-opening, giving them a clearer picture of the path ahead in the sport.

The event also highlighted the power of mentorship, as LPGA players took time to connect with students and share advice from their own journeys. In addition to the experience, the Great Oak Girls' Golf program received a $2,000 contribution to support the continued growth of the team.

The Pechanga Pro-Am also featured a charitable component, with celebrity participants and professional golfers raising funds for youth and veteran-focused organizations, further reinforcing the event’s commitment to community impact.

Experiences like this reflect TVUSD’s commitment to expanding opportunities for students, connecting them with real-world learning, mentorship, and inspiration beyond the classroom.

Earlier this year, we proudly celebrated Riya Rakesh, a 5th grader from Temecula Luiseno Elementary School, as the 2026 TVUSD Spelling Bee Champion. Last month, Riya took the next step in her spelling journey, representing TVUSD at the Riverside County Office of Education (RCOE) Spelling Bee held on March 26th in Riverside.

The county competition brought together top spellers from across Riverside County, each having advanced through their school and district bees to earn a place on the stage. Riya demonstrated incredible composure and determination as she competed among the county’s best, advancing to the 5th round, an impressive accomplishment in such a competitive field.

We are incredibly proud of Riya for representing TVUSD with excellence, confidence, and perseverance. Her achievement reflects not only her hard work and preparation, but also the bright academic talent across our district.

Congratulations, Riya, on an outstanding performance! 🐝

"Appreciation can make a day, even change a life. Your willingness to put it into words is all that is necessary." - Margaret Cousins

The TVUSD Community High Five Program is designed to empower and encourage the community to acknowledge and appreciate the dedicated employees of the district. This program serves as a platform for parents, students, and local residents to recognize and celebrate the relentless commitment and hard work put forth by district employees.

Fill out this quick form, and the Communications Department will create and send a digital certificate to the employee for their hard work. As an added recognition, one employee will be selected each month as a "Community High Five Spotlight," and their shout-out will be recognized in a future edition of the Community Connection.

TVUSD is considering a Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program that would start in kindergarten, possibly next fall at Temecula Elementary School. A Dual Language Immersion Program has the goals of full bilingualism and biliteracy in English and a second language, Spanish.

More details about the program can be found in the Dual Language Immersion Program survey, linked here. Please take a moment to fill out the survey and help guide the district as we explore this opportunity.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are excited to share an important update about elementary mathematics in our district—and an opportunity for you to be involved. TVUSD is beginning the process of selecting a new elementary math curriculum during the 2026-2027 school year, and we want your voice to be a part of it.

Over the past two years, many of our elementary teachers have participated in a research-based project using the Bridges in Mathematics, Third Edition curriculum. Through this work, students have engaged in learning aligned to the California Mathematics Standards and the California Math Framework. As a result, we’ve seen growth in students’ understanding of math concepts, problem-solving skills, and overall confidence in mathematics.

As part of the California Education Code, school districts are required to pilot instructional materials before adopting a new curriculum. We are now entering the next phase of this process for elementary mathematics with a team of elementary teachers and administrators.

We believe family partnership is essential in making the best decisions for our students. In addition to teacher involvement, we are forming a Parent Advisory Committee to provide input and feedback throughout the math pilot process.

• Attend informational meetings about the math programs being considered

• Preview sample lessons and materials

• Share feedback on your child’s experience with math learning

• Provide valuable parent perspective to help guide the adoption process

If you are interested in serving on the Parent Advisory Committee, please fill out the Google Survey included in the Smore Newsletter from your child’s site. Committee members will be selected and notified in April.

Join us along with local and county-wide vendors offering incredible programs and services designed to support students with special needs of all ages. A fun evening of music, snacks, activities, and raffle prizes!

• English flyer
• Spanish flyer

• 📆 Wednesday, April 22, 2026
• 🕓 4:00pm - 6:00pm
• 📍 MSJC Temecula, 41888 Motor Car Pkwy, Temecula, 2nd Floor elevator access
• 🚗 Registered families receive FREE parking! Use the QR code to register.

TVUSD is seeking members for the Special Education Community Advisory Committee.

Use the link below to fill out an application. Deadline to submit is April 29, 2026.

• Parents, educators, and community members
• Advocate for effective special education programs and services
• Provide parent trainings and community resources

Please join us for an evening of celebration as we listen to our inspiring students in our Special Education programs talk about their classroom and school experiences.

📆 Wednesday, May 6, 2026

🕕 6:00 - 7:30 pm

📍 TVUSD Conference Rooms A, B, C, 31350 Rancho Vista Road, Temecula, CA

Device inspections will take place from April 20 through May 15, 2026 to ensure all student devices are in good condition for the upcoming school year and eligible for insurance coverage.

Inspection timing will vary by grade level:

• ➡️ Elementary (K–5): During library time
• ➡️ Middle School: Scheduled through classes
• ➡️ High School: Students may visit the library on their own time

TVUSD also offers optional device insurance for added peace of mind. We know accidents happen, and this coverage helps protect against unexpected damage or issues.

• Cost: $30 per device

The insurance webstore will be open May 22–June 12, 2026. More information on how to purchase insurance will be shared in May.

Temecula Valley Unified School District is currently reviewing Board Policy 5132: Dress and Grooming as part of an effort to ensure our policies remain relevant, equitable, and supportive of a positive learning environment for all students.

As part of this process, a subcommittee has been convened to consider potential updates to the existing policy. Your feedback as a parent is an important part of this work. Your insights and experiences will help inform thoughtful recommendations that reflect the needs of our schools, uphold student safety, and support an inclusive and respectful school community.

We invite you to review the current policy below and share your perspectives through this survey. Your input will directly contribute to the subcommittee’s work and the development of any proposed revisions.

Thank you for taking the time to provide your feedback and for your continued commitment to our students and school community.

• April 28th
• April 29th

Questions? Email Mikel.Alford@TemeculaCA.gov

2025 Inside Temecula Newsletter

This is the City's first “Citywide Projects Edition” newsletter, which was printed and mailed to every address in Temecula. If you did not receive this newsletter in your mailbox, it is available electronically here, and we have extra copies at City Hall. Moving forward, we will produce this every January to provide Temecula residents and businesses with a snapshot of infrastructure projects recently completed or in progress for the coming year. Additionally, over the last few months, the City team created/enhanced an online Project StoryMap Webpage where you can find information about some of the more prominent projects in progress throughout the City.

It is now time to complete your Annual Family Update in your Infinite Campus Parent Portal. This update is REQUIRED FOR ALL STUDENTS RETURNING TO TVUSD FOR THE 26/27 SCHOOL YEAR.

Any student who does not have a completed Annual Update:

• may not be enrolled in a class for the 26/27 school year
  
• may not receive a schedule
  
• and may not be able to participate in school business days in August.
  

Take a moment to let us know if your child(ren) WILL NOT be returning for next school year. If your student(s) will be continuing their enrollment within any TVUSD school, there is no need to complete this questionnaire.

• Registration dates assigned by the school site
• Step-by-step enrollment directions for TK and Kindergarten
• Link to submit a Let's Talk message if you are having technology issues or have specific questions
• Call 951-506-7937 to speak with a CEC Technician
• Grade-Level placement for 2026-2027

Enrollment for 1st-12th grade students for next year will start on April 3, 2026, with prioritization for 6th & 9th graders in the first few days.

Our students thrive because of the dedicated people who support them every day. From classrooms to offices to playgrounds, every role matters. Join the TVUSD family and discover the rewarding opportunities waiting for you right here in our community.

Thank you to our amazing community partners who have supported the TVUSD Attendance Challenge!

Studies show that regular attendance is crucial for academic and life success. Here are some tips to keep your student on track:

• Prioritize attendance: Make sure your student is in school every day.
• Address health issues: Work with your student's doctor to minimize absences.
• Partner with the school: Stay involved and communicate regularly.

Remember: Chronic absence – missing just two days a month – can have a significant impact. Let's work together to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive!

🖐️ Our next Staff High Five spotlight is Michelle Stump, VHES Attendance Clerk. "Ms. Michelle is always smiling and energetic. When you enter VHES, whether you're a student, parent, or a staff member, Ms. Michelle's bright smile and warm hello are there to greet you everytime. " 🙌

@tvusd.parentcenter

Care Solace's care navigation services are confidential and complimentary to TVUSD students, staff, and their families. Care Solace's team is available 24/7/365 and can support you in any language.

• Call 888-515-0595
• Visit www.caresolace.com/tvusdfamilies and either search on your own OR click "Book Appointment" for assistance by video chat, email, or phone.

🧠 Mental Health & 💊 Substance Abuse: Find community-based providers & secure appointments.

🍲 Food Assistance: Access food pantries, home delivery meal programs, and government/non-profit programs.

🏠 Shelter Support: Find transitional housing, shelters, and housing programs.

🏥 Community Health Services: Connect with low-cost or free medical and dental care, female health services, and preventative care.

Catch up on past newsletters by visiting the Community Connection Newsletter Archive webpage.

Temecula Valley Unified School District is committed to building strong partnerships with parents in support of all students. Part of this commitment includes ensuring that families are informed of their rights and the right to opt their children out of certain instructional activities or assessments, as provided under state and federal law. The Frequently Asked Questions document linked below is designed to clarify the legal requirements, district procedures, and options available to parents regarding opt-outs.

For more information, visit: Know Your Rights and TVUSD Annual Notification for Parents

Location: 31350 Rancho Vista Road, Temecula, CA, USA
Phone: (951)676-2661