MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
Dear San Luis Coastal Community,
There’s something truly special about San Luis Coastal - a sense of connection, shared purpose, and a deep belief that every student deserves the chance to shine As we kick off another school year, I’m genuinely excited to welcome you back to our incredible district
What makes us strong is how we show up for each other. When our educators, families, staff, and community members work together, we create the kind of environment where students don’t just learn - they thrive We’re better together More resilient, more inspired, and more impactful when we lift each other up.
From the shores of Avila Beach and Morro Bay to the neighborhoods of San Luis Obispo and Los Osos, we’re united by a powerful sense of community Across all our schools, students, staff, and families work hand-in-hand to build spaces that feel welcoming, inclusive, and full of possibility. Whether a child is just starting TK or getting ready to walk across the graduation stage, they’re part of something bigger - a district rooted in growth, belonging, and opportunity
We’ve earned some meaningful recognition over the years - both of our middle schools are National Schools to Watch, and we’ve been honored with California Distinguished Schools, National Blue Ribbon Awards, and more But what really makes us proud are the everyday moments of student success in SkillsUSA, Mock Trial, the arts, and so much more These achievements speak volumes about the heart and drive of our students and the dedication of the adults who support them
At our core, we’re committed to making sure every student feels seen, valued, and supported We believe that when kids feel like they belong, when they’re engaged in real, meaningful learning, and when they have trusted adults cheering them on, they can accomplish incredible things
We’re also incredibly lucky to have strong partnerships with Cuesta College, Cal Poly, and our local businesses - opening doors for students to explore their passions and prepare for life beyond high school.
I’m especially excited about the work we’re doing alongside the San Luis Coastal Education Foundation Programs like iINNOVATE, Youth Athletics for Achievement, and NextGen are giving students life-changing opportunities and it’s all possible because of the community that surrounds and supports us As we look ahead, I invite each of you to be part of the journey
Let’s keep working together to create the kind of educational experience our students deserve. One rooted in equity, joy, connection, and possibility
Let’s take care of each other this year - and let’s see just how far we can go, together.
Warmly, Eric
District Office: 1500 Lizzie Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
SLCUSD VISION & MISSION:
Looking toward the 2025-26 School Year
At their June 17, 2025 Board Meeting, the SLCUSD Trustees approved their 2025-26 Annual Priorities.
Academic Achievement
Optimize the academic success of all students
Continue to close the achievement gap through first best instruction and academic interventions, while focusing on emotional health and well-being, as informed and measured by data.
Culture of Care
Continue to improve and strengthen our ongoing efforts to engage families and the community
Optimize student wellness
Use School Services audit to analyze current identification practices of SPED students’ and impact on budget, SPED staff workload, and future planning
Talent Development and Staff Support
Continue implementing the plan for recruitment, hiring, and retention of employees including efforts to achieve competitive compensation of employees
Fiduciary Responsibility
Continue careful monitoring of Measure C and appropriate disposition of surplus properties
Develop a plan, with timelines, to identify, assess, and access diverse and ongoing sources of sustainable district revenue
Develop a plan and recommendation for the Board that rectifies our structural deficit and ensures we meet the minimum state guidelines to maintain a positive certification
MISSION
San Luis Coastal Unified School District educates students through rigorous, relevant, and engaging experiences provided by caring, connected staff with support of the entire community
VISION
San Luis Coastal prepares each student for a life of purpose. Our students become courageous and creative thinkers. They are college and career ready, skillful collaborators, and productive contributors to a diverse and rapidly evolving world.
TRUSTEE AREA 1: MARILYN RODGER mrodger@slcusd.org
TRUSTEE AREA 2: ROBERT BANFIELD robertbanfield@slcusd.org
TRUSTEE AREA 3: CHRIS UNGAR cungar@slcusd.org
TRUSTEE AREA 4: MARK BUCHMAN mbuchman@slcusd.org
TRUSTEE AREA 5: ELLEN SHEFFER esheffer@slcusd.org
TRUSTEE AREA 6: ERICA FLORES BALTODANO ebaltodano@slcusd.org
TRUSTEE AREA 7: BRIAN CLAUSEN bclausen@slcusd.org
San Luis Coastal Unified is recognized as one of the finest districts in California, thanks to the efforts of our students, staff, and community. We are proud of the District's accomplishments, and we look forward to sharing them with you. We welcome your comments directly or invite you to join us at one of our open meetings. For more information on the Board and meetings go to: https://slcusd.org/about/board-oftrustees
BUDGET BASICS
SLCUSD is a Basic Aid funded district which means that revenue primarily comes from local property taxes. This is different than LCFF districts who get their revenue primarily from the State of California.
WHAT ARE THE RESTRICTED FUNDS?
Facility Bond Funds - Can only be used for facility modernization
Nutritional Services - Free school meal program for all
Career Technical Education - Can only be used for career pathway programs Extended Learning Opportunity Program (ELOP) - Summer Experience and Childcare
Federal Title and IDEA Funds - Can only be used for Special Education and programs that serve economically disadvantaged students
Local Control Accountability Plan - Funds can only be used for supporting English Learners, Foster/Homeless Youth, and Socio-economically disadvantaged students
Adult School - Grant-funded and fee-based programs that serve adult community
BUDGET TIMELINE
ADVOCACY IN ACTION:
PROTECTING THE FUTURE OF SAN LUIS COASTAL SCHOOLS
At San Luis Coastal Unified School District, our core mission is to provide an exceptional education for every student. For decades, we’ve built one of California’s highest-performing school systems by staying focused on what matters - excellent teaching, innovative programs, and strong community support
But today, we are facing serious funding challenges that threaten the foundation we’ve worked so hard to build
Shrinking Support from Diablo Canyon
For many years, SLCUSD received about $10 million annually in tax revenue from the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant. These funds helped support teachers, academic programs, and student services across our district But in 2016, PG&E announced the closure of the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant in 2026 We negotiated Senate Bill SB 1090, which provided a soft-landing by providing $4.5 million annually to San Luis Coastal as the plant closed its doors This seemed like a fair outcome In 2022, PG&E in conversation with the Governor’s Office, declared that they would remain open past 2026 which was reflected in Senate Bill SB 846 As we approach the end of funding per the SB 1090 agreement, San Luis Coastal is expecting a seat at the table if Diablo Canyon remains open We should not have to eliminate programs and services for students - if the plant remains open
We believe this is simply not fair
We are actively working with state leaders to reassess the tax structure tied to Diablo Canyon If the plant remains open, then the local schools that support its employees, their families, and our broader community must also be supported We’re not asking for special treatment - we’re asking for fairness, for sustainability, and for our students’ future
Unfunded Transitional Kindergarten Mandate
At the same time, we are embracing the opportunity to expand Transitional Kindergarten (TK), knowing how powerful early learning can be for young minds However, the state’s current funding model has left San Luis Coastal students out of the conversation We receive no funding for this critical program from the state of California.
To offer TK to every eligible child, we must invest $5-6 million each year in teachers, classrooms, materials, and facilities Right now, we’re forced to redirect resources from other vital programs - like class sizes, counseling, wellness centers, arts education, and transportation - just to make it work.
We’re proud of the Parent Advocacy Committee and TK teachers who worked so hard to support Assembly Bill 1391 (Addis), a proposal that aimed to fund TK equitably across the stateregardless of a child’s zip code. While the bill didn’t make it through the legislative process, their advocacy sparked important conversations - and we’re not done yet
Federal Funding Delays Threaten Critical Educational Supports
San Luis Coastal remains in a holding pattern as we await formal approval and disbursement of key federal funds for the 2025–26 school year Despite projected allocations based on previous years $90k for Title III, $74k for Title IV-A, $156k for Title II, and over $29k for Adult Education we have received no funding to date.
These funds are essential for sustaining vital programs, including support for our English Learner Coordinator, technology and social-emotional learning initiatives, professional development for educators, and Adult Ed services. With no official communication from the federal government, we are relying on updates from CASBO and School Services of California The uncertainty creates significant challenges in staffing and planning for the year ahead
Moving Forward: Advocacy in Action
We are now turning our focus to Diablo Canyon, pushing for common-sense solutions to restore the tax revenues that our local community needs and deserve This isn’t just a budget issue It’s about preserving the quality of education for every student in Avila, San Luis Obispo, Los Osos, and Morro Bay.
Together, We Will Continue to Lead
We are proud of our tradition of excellence - and we are determined to protect it. That means advocating passionately for the resources our students and educators need to thrive
Thank you for your continued support, your partnership, and your voice in this important effort Together, we can ensure that San Luis Coastal students continue to receive the world-class education they deserve
DISTRICT AWARDS
&RECOGNITIONS
DISTRICT
Parsec Data-Driven Hero Award
Cal Poly Learn By Doing Award Outstanding Campus Community Collaboration
SAN LUIS OBISPO HIGH SCHOOL
US News & World Report Best High Schools - National
US News & World Report Best High Schools - STEM
MORRO BAY HIGH SCHOOL
US News & World Report Best High Schools - National
LAGUNA MIDDLE SCHOOL
National Forum of Middle Schools: Schools to Watch
LOS OSOS MIDDLE SCHOOL
National Forum of Middle Schools: Schools to Watch
BISHOP’S PEAK
SEL4CA Thriving Schools Award Schoolwide PracticesGold (2024-25)
Community Food Source School Garden Certification
MONARCH GROVE
California Distinguished School
PACHECO
California Distinguished School
Educational Results Partnership - 2024 Honor Roll School
SINSHEIMER
California PBIS Bronze Implementation Award
SEL4CA Thriving Schools Award - Classroom Practices
CL SMITH
Leader In Me Lighthouse Award
PACIFICBEACHHIGHSCHOOL WINSMODELCONTINUATION SCHOOLAWARD
We are proud to announce that Pacific Beach High School has received the Distinguished Model Continuation High School award from the California Department of Education The Model Continuation High School (MCHS) Recognition Program identifies and recognizes outstanding programs and creates a resource list for model school visits These schools provide comprehensive services to at-risk youth through the use of exemplary instructional strategies, flexible scheduling, and guidance and counseling services. This is a testament to the dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment demonstrated by the Pacific Beach school community in serving students and preparing them for success
FRESH,LOCAL& AWARDWINNING
SLCUSD’s Food & Nutrition Team Honored for Produce Excellence
San Luis Coastal is excited to share that the Food & Nutrition Services team has been nationally recognized by the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) with a 2025 Produce Excellence in Foodservice Award!
This prestigious award honors chefs and foodservice teams across the country for their creativity, innovation, and excellence in showcasing fresh produce, and our very own team has set a shining example
Under the leadership of Erin Primer, Director of Food & Nutrition Services, SLCUSD has reimagined what school meals can be, bringing vibrant, seasonal, and locally sourced fruits and vegetables to students every day From flavorful salads to colorful produce bars and scratch-made meals, our Food & Nutrition team goes above and beyond to make fresh food both fun and accessible.
The team will be honored at the IFPA Foodservice Conference in Monterey, CA, where the best in the industry come together to celebrate outstanding achievements in fresh food innovation
This recognition is more than just an award it’s a celebration of the passion, dedication, and hard work our “School Lunch Heroes” bring to the table every single day Their efforts not only nourish students but also help instill lifelong healthy eating habits
A NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL
Tucked just outside the San Luis Obispo city limits, Los Ranchos Elementary feels like a step back in time in the best way The school has retained its charm and welcoming spirit since opening in 1958
“There is still much work to be done! The teachers and I are committed to ensuring that every individual student finds success during their experience at Los Ranchos. We enthusiastically work hard each day, with an optimistic attitude, in an effort to contribute to the wonderful community that we live in.”
- Principal McMillen
Step onto campus, and you’ll be greeted by a warm, friendly office staff and dedicated educators who are passionate about student success At Los Ranchos, relationships matter and they go hand-in-hand with high expectations and academic excellence It’s all captured in their school motto: “We take care of ourselves, we take care of each other, and we take care of this place.”
As new homes spring up in the area once dominated by farmland, Los Ranchos has experienced steady growth In the last four years alone, the student population has risen from 372 to 521 Despite this increase, the school has maintained a consistent demographic makeup, and a strong sense of community remains at its core
Since 2021, Principal James McMillen has led the school with a vision rooted in academic rigor and meaningful partnerships with families The school has expanded opportunities for students to explore their passions and build confidence from Robotics Club and the iINNOVATE lab, to a hands-on Garden Program, afterschool athletics, and a vibrant visual and performing arts scene "Los Ranchos offers a wellrounded education that supports every learner," said McMillen “We believe in the power of enrichment, leadership, and community involvement ”
As a proud Leader in Me school, Los Ranchos empowers students to take ownership of their learning and their school environment Leadership isn’t just a concept it’s a daily practice, with students stepping up in big and small ways to help shape a positive school culture Classrooms buzz with engaging lessons, and every minute of the day is maximized for learning
In May 2023, Los Ranchos received exciting news: an invitation to apply for the prestigious National Blue Ribbon Schools award a distinction based on exceptional academic performance and growth. The school’s success, particularly in closing achievement gaps for socio-economically disadvantaged students, caught the attention of state and national leaders. In fact, Los Ranchos’ SED subgroup scored in the top 40% statewide and showed improvement that placed them in the top 15% of similar student groups across California
This fall, Los Ranchos joined an elite group: just 32 schools in California and 356 nationwide were named 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools It's the school’s first Blue Ribbon honor since 1989 and the entire community is beaming with pride. A new flag now waves outside the school as a symbol of that recognition
At Los Ranchos Elementary, tradition and innovation walk hand in hand and the future is brighter than ever
A LOOK INTO OUR NEXTGEN SCHOLARS & AVID PROGRAMS
In Spring 2023, San Luis Coastal Unified School District launched a powerful new initiative NextGen Scholars in partnership with the San Luis Coastal Education Foundation (SLCEF). This transformative program is designed to support high-achieving, firstgeneration students with the tools and resources they need to thrive on the path to a four-year university
From one-on-one tutoring and enhanced counseling to a $1,000 scholarship for AP exams, SAT/ACT fees, and college applications, NextGen Scholars goes beyond traditional support systems to ensure students are prepared, academically, financially, and emotionally, for the journey ahead.
To stay on track, students must maintain a minimum 3 5 GPA, complete 20+ hours of community service each year, and enroll in at least one AP, Honors, or dual enrollment course starting
sophomore year These rigorous expectations are in addition to participation in AVID, our nationally acclaimed college-readiness program.
This past year, we’ve made exciting strides in fully integrating NextGen Scholars with our already thriving AVID programs across all four of our secondary schools. Together, these programs provide a comprehensive, coordinated support system for students navigating the college admissions process
Real-World Connections & Inspiring Experiences
This year’s highlights included unforgettable college visits and career exploration opportunities One standout moment for NextGen Scholars was an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of ACI Jet, featuring motivational talks from Cal Poly first-generation students and former Olympian Sharon Day-Monroe These experiences continue to ignite passion and purpose in our students' academic journeys
Celebrating Student Success
Our AVID and NextGen Scholars students have shown incredible dedication and growth and the results speak for themselves: 60% of SLOHS AVID students and 54% of MBHS AVID students are enrolled in AP or Honors classes 100% of AVID seniors at both SLOHS and MBHS were accepted to at least one four-year university!
Here’s a snapshot of where the AVID Class of 2025 has been admitted so far: Cal Poly SLO, UC Santa Cruz, UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC Riverside, UC Merced, San Diego State, CSU Long Beach, University of Colorado Boulder, Colorado State, University of Oregon, Oregon State, Occidental College, Chapman University, and many more!
Together with the San Luis Coastal Education Foundation, we remain deeply committed to preparing every student for success in college and in life. Stay tuned as we continue to celebrate the achievements of these remarkable young scholars!
ATHLETICS:
FOSTERING GROWTH, OPPORTUNITY, AND LIFELONG SKILLS FOR ALL STUDENTS
The San Luis Coastal Unified School District (SLCUSD) is committed to developing well-rounded, confident, and capable students through its athletics programs. Using the Aspen Institutes Play Sport Initiative and the Children’s Bill of Rights, SLCUSD has set out to reimagine how students engage in sports At the heart of this initiative is the belief that athletics should be more than just about competition - it’s about fostering physical, social, and emotional growth in a collaborative, safe, and inclusive environment This approach is outlined in the district’s new Athletic Vision Statement, which emphasizes the importance of providing all students with the opportunity to grow under the guidance of qualified, caring coaches
Breaking Barriers with Athletics for Achievement
To ensure all students, regardless of background or financial circumstance, have access to the benefits of sports, SLCUSD partnered with the Education Foundation launched the Athletics for Achievement program This initiative, which spans both elementary and middle school levels, works to eliminate financial barriers, making sports participation accessible to every student Along with offering a safe and supportive environment, the program emphasizes the development of valuable life skills, including teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinkingskills that will benefit students both inside and outside the classroom
Coaches’ Development and Training
SLCUSD is also dedicated to supporting its coaches with the development of a Coaching Academy linked to the Safe Sports & Extracurricular Program policy. The district has enlisted high school head coaches to share their expertise in coaching development through recorded sessions and in-person training This will ensure that both new and seasoned coaches are equipped with the tools they need to support students and foster a positive, growth-oriented athletic environment Coaching manuals, designed by high school head coaches, will also be provided to elementary coaches, helping to establish continuity across all grade levels
Exciting Plans for Growth
The district has developed clear, forward-thinking plans for each level of its athletics program:
Elementary Athletics: A five-year plan includes modifications to the current program, with a focus on more skill-building opportunities and increased playing time
Middle School Athletics: A two-year plan introduces the Athletics for Achievement model for sports that typically have cuts, such as volleyball and basketball, as well as an intradistrict league for collaboration between local middle schools High School Athletics: The introduction of the Sunday City League offers students a chance to play sports without the pressure of formal school teams, providing valuable opportunities for growth, connection, and enjoyment
With these new programs, SLCUSD is creating an athletics experience that is truly accessible, collaborative, and designed to benefit students for years to come Whether on the field, in the classroom, or in the community, students are learning lessons that will last a lifetime SLCUSD
CREATING A HEALTHY TECHNOLOGY ENVIRONMENT FOR STUDENTS
Earlier this year, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 3216, the Phone-Free School Act, requiring all school districts to limit smartphone use by July 1, 2026 At the same time, many parents expressed concerns about their children’s screen time, particularly on Chromebooks and social media apps during the school day.
In response, SLCUSD launched the Future Ready and Healthy Technology Use Task Force in October 2024 Its mission was to develop a balanced approach to technology that prioritizes student learning, safety, and well-being. The task force was a collaborative effort, including students, parents, teachers, principals, and district staff, and focused on creating an Educational Technology Plan, refining our Digital Citizenship and Media Literacy programs, and establishing clear guidelines for technology use by students and staff.
Our Vision for Technology Use
We began by defining a shared vision: “Students and staff will engage with technology responsibly, fostering creativity and ensuring age-appropriate interactions while prioritizing safety and well-being This approach prepares them for academic success and future opportunities in an ever-changing world "
Key Areas of Focus
The task force worked in several focused groups, each addressing different aspects of technology use, such as classroom hardware, content filtering, AI, cell phone policies, and parent education Research, current practices, and future possibilities were discussed in depth to ensure that technology enhances, rather than detracts, from learning
Additionally, we sought feedback from the Superintendent’s Student Senate, allowing students to share what’s working well and what could be improved in terms of technology use
Highlights of the Technology Plan
The Future Ready and Healthy Education Technology Plan outlines 28 action steps over the next three years Key highlights include:
Cell Phone Policy: Phones will be "away for the day" in elementary and middle schools High school students will experience distraction-free learning environments.
Social Media Restrictions: Students will not have access to social media during school hours
Chromebooks: In elementary and middle schools, Chromebooks will be restricted during lunchtime unless used for academic purposes.
Digital Citizenship: A comprehensive program to help students navigate online spaces responsibly
Artificial Intelligence: Updating staff policies and training to include emerging technologies like AI
Preparing Students for an Ever-Changing World
As educators, it’s our job to prepare students for a future filled with technology and innovation Our technology plan ensures that students are not only adept at using the tools of today but are also adaptable to those of tomorrow. At the same time, we will continue to focus on building foundational skills in reading, writing, math, and critical thinking, while valuing screen-free interactions that foster genuine connections
The SLCUSD Technology Plan is a living document, designed to evolve with the needs of our students and the technology that shapes their education Together, we can create a healthy, futureready learning environment
STUDENT SENATE & YOUTHTRUTH
SURVEY EMPOWER STUDENT
LEADERS
How this innovative program has been shaping the future of SLCUSD for the past nine years by giving students a direct platform to share their experiences and insights, creating a vital connection between the district’s decision-makers and the voices of those it serves: the students.
At San Luis Coastal, we believe that when students speak, we should listen - and act That’s why, in 2016, we launched the Superintendent’s Student Senate a space created to ensure student voices play a central role in shaping the future of our schools.
What began with just 45 secondary students has now grown into a dynamic group of over 150 student leaders from grades 5 through 12, representing every corner of our district Their mission is simple yet powerful: to share their experiences, advocate for their peers, and help create schools that are safe, inclusive, and inspiring for all
Each year, students across the district participate in the YouthTruth survey, sharing honest feedback about their school experiences from academic engagement and friendships to safety and wellbeing These insights give us a clear picture of what’s working, and where we can do better
The Student Senate takes this data and turns it into meaningful, actionable goals. Their recommendations are shared directly with school leaders, teachers, and our Board of Education As a result, their voices have helped shape key priorities in our Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) and influence how we allocate resources to support student success especially for those who have traditionally been underserved.
What makes the Student Senate so powerful is its commitment to equity and improvement Year after year, these students meet with school staff and district leaders to review data, discuss challenges, and propose solutions. Their ideas directly influence school improvement plans and have helped drive important changes in areas such as safety, mental health, and academic opportunity
Now in its ninth year, the Student Senate continues to be a shining example of student leadership in action. It shows us what’s possible when we listen to our students - not just as learners, but as partners in shaping a better future for everyone
I’m incredibly proud of the work our Student Senate has accomplished and excited about where they’re headed next. Their passion, courage, and insight are helping us build stronger schools and a stronger community
Together, we’re proving that student voice matters and that when we center it, amazing things can happen.
“You can’t help the kids, if you don’t know what the kids want.” - Nelson, Student Senator
MEASURE C: BUILDING TOMORROW’S SCHOOLS
A glimpse of the new elementary and middle schools, and Pacific Beach High School
Pacific Beach High School is getting a completely new building in the current field area at the east of the campus. The old campus will be demolished.
Measure C-22 passed with 63% approval in November 2022 The $349 million bond provides money for badly needed security and classroom upgrades for all the elementary and middle schools in Morro Bay, Los Osos and San Luis Obispo Measure C will transform our campuses and create inspiring learning environments where our students will thrive
Most of our schools are more than half a century old, and are in need of major modernization and infrastructure improvements These include leaky roofs, outdated classroom technology, inefficient heating and cooling systems, and disability access needs
This measure will also focus on schoolwide safety upgrades, such as perimeter fencing, inner locking doors, fire alarms, and cameras These tools are necessary to keep our children as safe as possible.
For more information on individual site projects, visit the Measure C website at: https://www slcusd org/about/measure-c
The website contains a link to each school site where you can find a project list, schematics, site plans, and pictures
THE MEASURE C CITIZENS' BOND OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
On March 21, 2023, the San Luis Coastal Unified School District Board of Trustees appointed a diverse and dedicated group of volunteers to serve on the Measure C Citizens’ Oversight Committee Their mission? To ensure that every dollar from the $349 million Measure C bond is spent exactly as promised improving and modernizing our local elementary and middle schools
The committee includes representatives from across our region, including voices from education, business, taxpayer groups, senior organizations, students, and the broader community. Careful attention was given to ensure the committee reflects the diversity and values of the communities served by the district
This team meets quarterly to:
Review project updates and budgets
Visit school sites and see the construction work in progress
Prepare an annual public report to the Board of Education
Their work helps ensure transparency, accountability, and trust in how bond funds are used The committee will continue to meet until the final Measure C dollars are spent, helping to guide the transformation of our campuses from start to finish.
Check the Community section on the district website for upcoming meeting dates and public access info
Examples of architect renderings for (from top) Baywood Elementary, Hawthorne Elementary, and Los Ranchos Elementary
With Measure C projects touching nearly every San Luis Coastal campus, take a moment to meet the team working hard behind the scenes.
MEASURE C PROJECT MANAGERS
RYAN HARRIGAN
SITES: LOS RANCHOS, PACHECO, SLOHS
Ryan Harrigan brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles as Director of Facilities for the Guadalupe Union School District and Project Manager for the Lucia Mar Unified School District. With a strong commitment to enhancing educational environments, Ryan combines his expertise in project management with a passion for community service Outside of his professional achievements, he cherishes family time with his wife of 27 years, their four children, and their precious granddaughter An avid golfer, Ryan enjoys spending his spare time on the greens, where he finds relaxation and joy.
DAVE LASSARRE
SITES: SINSHEIMER, HAWTHORNE, C.L. SMITH, PBHS
Dave Lassarre is proud to bring 40 years of construction knowledge and expertise to the SLCUSD team He began his career while still in high school. After graduation, he enlisted in the world's largest construction company: the U.S. Navy Seabees (Construction Battalions), where he traveled the world, serving in both humanitarian missions and becoming a decorated Gulf War veteran After he left the military, he pursued a career as a general contractor He is married to his junior high crush, Lisa, and they have five sons ranging in age from 23 to 33
CHRIS PEOPLES
SITES: DEL MAR, BISHOP’S PEAK, MONARCH GROVE, BAYWOOD
Chris Peoples is a lifelong local who attended Morro Elementary, Los Osos Middle School, and graduated from Morro Bay High School After earning a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, he worked in production supervision and technical service Chris has spent the past 11 years with SLCUSD, serving in various roles within the BG&T department. In his free time, Chris enjoys camping and traveling with his wife and two children. Chris takes pride in contributing to the improvement of school facilities in the same community where he and his children have grown up
INSIDE SLCUSD’S PARENT PARTICIPATION PROGRAM
Before a child ever steps foot into a classroom, their most important learning happens at home and parents are their first teachers. That’s where San Luis Coastal Unified School District’s Parent Participation Program steps in
For over 50 years, this beloved community program has supported families with children ages 0–4, giving parents the tools, confidence, and connections they need to navigate the early years of parenting Through weekly collaborative classes, families come together to learn, grow, and build strong foundations for lifelong learning
“This program is clearly beloved by the community,” says Dan Neff, Director of Secondary and Adult Education “We employ about 10 expert instructors who are truly dedicated to the families they serve ”
Run through the Adult Education Program, Parent Participation classes combine a rich children’s curriculum with hands-on activities, crafts, and music with an empowering parenting curriculum focused on topics like positive discipline, early childhood development, and postpartum mental health
The program also recognizes that parenting is more than caregiving it’s teaching Parents learn how to create engaging, enriching environments at home where learning happens through play, conversation, and everyday moments
“We see the impact of supporting and encouraging new parents,” says Denise Indvik, Coordinator of the Parent Participation Program “When parents feel equipped with positive tools, they’re more connected to their children, more confident, and better able to provide the loving guidance their little ones need ”
More than just a class, the Parent Participation Program is often a family’s first connection to SLCUSD, a warm welcome into a supportive educational community It’s a place where lifelong friendships are made, parenting challenges are met with compassion, and families are empowered to give their children the very best start.
This program isn’t just about parenting it’s an investment in our future Because when we support families, we help every child thrive
PREPARING OUR ADULT LEARNERS
San Luis Coastal’s commitment to educating students doesn’t stop at 12th grade. With a broad spectrum of programs, the District is dedicated to providing educational resources that cater to diverse community needs, including High School Diploma attainment, English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, Guided Pathways for career education, and transformative Jail Education programs
High School Diploma Program
The High School Diploma program stands as a cornerstone of the district's Adult Education offerings. Tailored for adults who aspire to complete their secondary education, this program offers a flexible schedule and personalized curriculum that accommodates the unique lifestyles and learning paces of adult learners Through this initiative, SLCUSD reopens the doors to education, empowering adults to achieve a milestone that is pivotal for career advancement and personal growth
“Our students are from all types of backgrounds, from transportation to medicine who desire to complete their diploma Our faculty work incredibly hard to meet our students where they are and facilitate them to accomplish their goals We are so proud of our graduates!” said Dan Neff, Director of Secondary and Adult Education.
English as a Second Language
The Adult School offers a comprehensive ESL curriculum It includes a unique partnership with Cuesta College, and equips non-native speakers with the linguistic tools necessary for effective communication, opening up new personal and professional avenues
Career Readiness
The Adult School also provides Guided Pathways, a streamlined set of courses that pave the way to career readiness. This initiative helps individuals carve out clear vocational paths, providing guidance and education in fields that are in high demand Whether it's upskilling for a current job or preparing for a new vocation, Guided Pathways lays out a road map to success
Jail Education
Lastly, the district’s Jail Education program is a testament to its commitment to inclusive education Recognizing the transformative power of learning, SLCUSD extends its educational resources to the incarcerated, offering courses that nurture hope and encourage rehabilitation. This program serves a catalyst for positive change, supporting reentry into society.
We are currently offering Financial Literacy in Jail Education classes as a new resource for inmates It is an excellent class for understanding finances and how they may have changed and operated differently within this day and age.
Together, these programs underscore SLCUSD’s belief in the transformative power of education of all stages of life, fostering a culture of continuous learning community support
“Our instructors meet the students where they are, in order to get them to where they need to be for the next step in their journey This could be in their path toward the world or work, higher education, or that next step toward their passion –whatever that is ”Dan Neff, Director of Secondary Education & Adult School
1500 Lizzie Street H2 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805-549-1222
https://ae.slcusd.org/adult-education
Our mission is to meet the diverse educational needs of our community by empowering lifelong learners to reach their professional, personal, and family goals.
We offer classes from the following programs online:
High School Diploma/Equivalency
High School Equivalency for Spanish Speakers
Lifelong Fitness
Parent Education
EXPANDING PROGRAMS TO PREPARE STUDENTS FOR A FUTURE READY WORLD
The San Luis Coastal Education Foundation (SLCEF) is proud to announce major strides in our mission to ensure every student in our district is prepared to thrive in a rapidly changing world This year, the Foundation is significantly increasing our investment in hands-on learning and enrichment programs that build the skills and experiences students need for future success.
Our iINNOVATE Initiative continues to reach every K–6th grade classroom with dynamic, hands-on learning experiences As part of this work, this past year we launched the K12 Skills Lab, a monthly career exploration series that introduces students to high-demand industries such as clean energy, biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing through engaging, real-world learning experiences connected to our region's economic development strategy.
The success of the Skills Lab has positioned San Luis Coastal as a leader in this space, prompting the formation of a new regional coalition of six additional school districts that will now adopt this programming for their students. Together, we are building a homegrown talent pipeline and creating meaningful pathways to upward mobility for the 44% of our students who are socioeconomically disadvantaged We are proud that San Luis Coastal is on the leading edge of future-ready learning, serving as a model for other communities across the region.
We’re also thrilled to be launching the Trust Automation Advanced Manufacturing Apprenticeship Program, a partnership with a premier local company to provide specialized, high-skill training. Advanced manufacturing is a future-facing, high-wage industry that supports a range of emerging sectors like aerospace, semiconductors and advanced technologies This program will offer students a direct pathway from K-12 into this growing field right here on the Central Coast
Our NextGen Scholars program is growing after welcoming a second cohort of first-generation, college-bound 9th graders at
Morro Bay and San Luis Obispo High Schools. These students are committed to a rigorous journey of academic achievement, service, and skill-building We are excited to continue removing barriers and uplifting talented young people across our district
Finally, our Athletics for Achievement program is leveling up. After strong student participation across all ten elementary schools, we’re adding academic and leadership development components, increasing game time, and launching a new Coaching Academy to train staff in our expanded goals ensuring students grow both on and off the field
To learn more about the San Luis Coastal Education Foundation and it’s program, donate, or get involved, visit www slcef org
