Welcome Back MUSD families! I hope you had a relaxing and enjoyable Spring Break and that your first week back to school has been smooth and energizing. We enter the state testing season and we know how important your role is in supporting your child’s academic journey. These assessments help us understand student progress and tailor support to help every learner thrive.

Here are a few simple but powerful tips to help your child feel confident and prepared during testing:

💤 1. Prioritize Sleep - A well-rested brain is a ready brain!
Help your child get 8–10 hours of sleep each night. Try keeping a consistent bedtime routine—turn off screens at least 30 minutes before bed, and encourage winding down with a book or quiet activity.

🥣 2. Start the Day with a Healthy Breakfast - Fuel their focus.
A balanced breakfast with protein, whole grains, and fruit can improve attention and stamina. If mornings are rushed, take advantage of free breakfast at school—we’re here to help!

🗓️ 3. Arrive on Time - A calm start sets the tone for the day.
Being on time helps students settle in and reduces anxiety. Avoid scheduling appointments during testing days if possible.

💬 4. Talk About the Test Calmly - Encourage effort, not perfection.
Remind your child that tests are just one way to show what they’ve learned. Help them manage stress by encouraging a positive mindset: “Just try your best, and that’s enough.”

🧘 5. Practice Mindfulness or Breathing - Simple techniques go a long way.
Before a test, your child can take 3 deep breaths, stretch, or use a short mindfulness activity. These help relax the body and clear the mind.

❤️ 6. Offer Encouragement - Your words matter.
A note in their lunchbox or a morning hug with a “You’ve got this!” can make a big difference. Let them know you’re proud of their hard work.

🧠 7. Keep Learning Fun at Home - Stay curious together.
Talk about what they’re learning, play word or math games, or read together. Your interest in their school life shows that learning is valuable.

📆 State Testing Dates - Be sure to check with your child’s school for specific testing dates. Each school will provide details about when and what students will be taking.

We’re in this together. Thank you for your partnership in helping every child feel supported and successful. If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to your school site directly—we’re here for you.

Sincerely,

Dr. Patricio Vargas

The Morongo Unified School District is proud to announce that Friendly Hills Elementary School has been named a 2025 California Distinguished School by the California Department of Education. This prestigious honor recognizes schools that demonstrate exceptional student performance and success in closing achievement gaps.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced the award, highlighting elementary schools across the state that have excelled in academic achievement, student engagement and creating a positive school climate.

“It is my pleasure to honor and recognize these 336 elementary schools for their efforts to provide exemplary public education to all students,” Superintendent Thurmond said. “Excellent elementary schools play a critical role in the life outcomes of our young people.”

To select California Distinguished Schools, the California Department of Education (CDE) uses multiple measures to identify eligible schools based on their performance on the state indicators as specified on the California School Dashboard (Dashboard). Specifically, schools were selected by analyzing data reported through the 2024 Dashboard, with a focus on demonstrating excellence and growth in academic achievement and ensuring a positive school climate.

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our teachers, staff, students and families,” said MUSD Superintendent Dr. Patricio Vargas. “At MUSD, we are committed to fostering an environment where every student can thrive, and Friendly Hills Elementary’ s achievement exemplifies this mission.”

Morongo Unified School District congratulates the entire Friendly Hills Elementary community on this outstanding achievement. For more information about the California Distinguished Schools Program, please visit the California Department of Education website.

Morongo Unified School District is proud to announce that two of its exceptional staff members have been honored by the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools as Classified Employees of the Year for 2025. Lori Thomas, Administrative Assistant at La Contenta Middle School, and Lisa Soliz, Librarian at Twentynine Palms High School, have been selected for this prestigious distinction and will now advance to compete at the state level in the California Department of Education's Classified School Employees of the Year program.

“We are incredibly proud of Lori and Lisa,” said MUSD Superintendent Dr. Patricio Vargas. “Their dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment to students and staff make them truly deserving of this recognition. They are shining examples of the vital role classified employees play in the success of our schools.”

Lori Thomas has served La Contenta Middle School and the Morongo Unified School District for over 20 years, becoming a cornerstone of the school’s administrative team. She is celebrated for her calm presence, tireless work ethic, and deep commitment to the entire school community. Lori was honored in the Administrative Services category.

Lisa Soliz has transformed the Twentynine Palms High School library into a dynamic center for learning and creativity. Her passion for literacy, innovative programming, and student-centered approach have left a lasting impact on the school community. Lisa received recognition in the Paraprofessional Services category.

Both honorees will represent San Bernardino County in the upcoming statewide competition, where their achievements will be considered among top classified employees across California.

“MUSD is fortunate to have such remarkable individuals serving our students,” added Superintendent Vargas. “We wish Lori and Lisa the best as they continue to the state level. They have already made us incredibly proud.”

Nearly 300 students from across the district participated in the Spring Leadership Camp over spring break, an enriching experience designed to foster personal growth and leadership skills. The camp featured a diverse range of activities, including team-based leadership exercises, creative art projects and outdoor athletic challenges. Students also had the opportunity to engage in reflection stations, allowing them to process their experiences and set personal goals.

Beyond skill-building, the camp provided a supportive environment for students to collaborate, build confidence and form lasting friendships.

Brushes, Beats & Beyond! celebrates the incredible creativity of MUSD ELOP students, guided by the talented teaching artists of Groundwork Arts. This vibrant exhibit features artwork from east-end students and is currently on view at the Twentynine Palms Visitor Center.

A companion exhibit showcasing west-end student work opens next Thursday at the Black Rock Campground.

Every Wednesday, ELOP students dive into visual art, music, and performance through the award-winning Groundwork Arts program, learning alongside practicing artists from the Morongo Basin community. Check out their amazing work.

As part of our new Disconnect to Reconnect campaign, we’re exploring the real impact that constant cell phone use is having on students. This week, we're focusing on mental health—an area where the effects are becoming harder to ignore.

Anxiety, Depression and the Endless Scroll

Recent studies show a strong connection between high cell phone use and increased levels of anxiety, depression and loneliness in adolescents. Why? Social media platforms are designed to hook attention—and they often leave kids comparing themselves to filtered lives, fearing they’re missing out, or feeling pressured to be “always on.”

Sleep Deprivation = Emotional Strain

Many students go to bed with their phones by their side. Notifications throughout the night disrupt rest and the blue light emitted by screens suppresses melatonin, making it harder to fall asleep. Sleep deprivation can worsen mood swings, increase irritability and make it harder to concentrate and manage emotions.

The Adolescent Brain on Screens

Teens' brains are still developing, especially in areas related to impulse control and emotional regulation. Constant phone use reinforces instant gratification—and makes it harder to focus, reflect or simply be still. Over time, this can lead to increased stress and reduced ability to manage it.

What Can Parents Do?

• Start with Awareness - Talk with your child about how they feel after using their phone. Are they relaxed—or drained?
• Set Boundaries Together - Create tech-free zones (like bedrooms) and times (like dinner or the hour before bed). Make it a family effort, not a punishment.
• Model the Behavior - Kids notice how we use our phones, too. Try unplugging during key moments—show them it's okay to be bored, present or quiet.
• Check In, Not Just Check Phones - Be intentional about asking how they're really doing—offline.

We’ll continue sharing resources, strategies and family challenges in the months ahead. Thank you for partnering with us to build healthier, happier more connected students.

We are thrilled to invite your child to join our Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) for grades TK-6.

Your child will participate in engaging project-based activities that spark creativity and exploration. Each day features age-appropriate academic lessons, interactive group activities and more. We also provide meals—breakfast, snacks and lunch—to keep your child energized and focused.

Important Details:

• Program Dates: June 12 to July 11, 2025

• Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

• Registration Deadline: May 12th, 2025

Registration is open now in Parentvue! Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to register early. If you have any questions, please contact us at (760) 367-9191 x4285.

We look forward to this exciting learning journey with your child!

Have you heard about our online menus? These K-12 online menus are designed to make your meal planning easier and more convenient. Say goodbye to the days of wondering what's for breakfast or lunch at school. With just a few clicks, you can access your full menu online at My School Menus.

• Easy Access: View the menu anytime, anywhere from your computer or mobile device.

• Detailed Information: Get nutritional information and allergen details for each meal.

• Multiple Languages: Our menu is available in various languages. Simply select your preferred language from the options provided.

But wait, there's more! We also have dedicated mobile apps for both Google and Apple devices, making it even easier to stay connected with our school's meal options.

Download our Mobile Apps:

We hope these tools will enhance your dining experience and keep you informed about the delicious and nutritious meals we offer. Happy eating!

Stay up-to-date with the latest from the Board of Education with the Board News, a snapshot of MUSD Board of Education Meetings.

We are proud to recognize Teri Markley, Administrative Assistant at Yucca Valley Elementary School, as our Employee of the Month!

Teri was nominated for her exceptional knowledge of school operations and her unwavering dedication to supporting both staff and students. She consistently goes above and beyond, offering help with a calm and kind demeanor that makes everyone around her feel supported and valued. Whether it's assisting with day-to-day logistics, answering questions, or stepping in to help wherever needed, Teri does it all with a positive attitude and a can-do spirit.

Her approachable nature, professionalism and commitment to excellence make her an essential part of the YVES team. Colleagues describe her as someone who is always available, extremely dependable, and a true team player who helps keep the school running smoothly.

Congratulations, Teri, and thank you for being such a valuable part of our school community!

The Morongo USD Board of Education will hold its next regular meeting on May 13. Open session starts at 6 p.m. For more information visit the link below.

Click on the link below to download our new app. The app has some useful features for MUSD families including contact information, up-to-date news from the district and more.

Website: www.morongousd.com

Location: 5715 Utah Trail, Twentynine Palms, CA, USA

Phone: 760-367-9191

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialMUSD

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morongousd/

X: @Dr_Vargas_MUSD and https://twitter.com/MorongoUnified

April 11, 2025