Last Spring, we completed a strategic plan which the Board of Trustees approved in June. My Superintendent goals for the next three years are aligned to that plan and were accepted by the Board at the August board meeting. A longer detailed version will be published on our website, but here is a condensed one page version of these aspirational  goals which will guide our work going forward.

1. Safe, Clean, and Modern Schools

We’re improving all of our school buildings so that every student learns in a clean, safe, and modern space. We’ll also respond faster to maintenance needs.

2. Strong Academics and Future-Ready Skills

We’re helping students do better in reading, writing, and math—while also teaching skills like critical thinking and responsible use of AI. We’re setting high standards and using data to help every student grow.

3. More Music, Art, Language, and Enrichment

We’re expanding access to electives like music, Spanish, cooking, sports, and arts—no matter where students go to school. We want learning to be engaging and creative!

4. Great Teachers and Future Leaders

We’re focused on hiring, supporting, and growing excellent teachers and leaders—people who care about your children. We’re also building programs to help educators move into leadership roles.

5. Wellness, Belonging, and Healthy Choices

We want every student to feel welcome, supported, and safe. We’re building wellness rooms, using restorative practices, and offering healthy meals and physical activity.

6. Better Communication with Families

We’re making it easier for families to get the information they need—through a new website, newsletters, and school events. We’re also increasing outreach to multilingual and migrant families.

7. Using Data to Improve Every Day

We’re using student data to make smart decisions—tracking progress, adjusting teaching, and making sure no student falls through the cracks.

• Anzar - Carol Storckman - ELD/Math Intervention

• Aromas - Karen Aldridge - SDC/Special Education

• District - Monica Nicasio - Curriculum and Career Pathways Administrative Assistant

• District - Laura Valdez-Chavez - Preschool Program/Early Education Director

• Food Services - Rosalia Martinez - Cook 

This week we received the news that ANZAR HIGH SCHOOL was recognized as a BEST HIGH SCHOOL in this annual ranking report.  We are also proud to be the highest ranked high school in San Benito County and have exceeded the rankings of many other high schools in adjacent counties. 

One of our datapoints that shows our progress is our growth in Advanced Placement test takers and score results. We have a three-year high with more students taking more AP tests and more are achieving passing scores.

We have added yet another new Advanced Placement course this year: AP Research. Upon successful completion of AP Seminar, AP Research and 4 other AP exams, students will earn the AP Capstone Diploma. Students who successfully complete AP Seminar and AP Research will earn the AP Capstone certificate which is highly favored by colleges and universities.

Demolition of part of the campus has occurred. Site work related to underground utilities has been occurring this fall with foundations next.  New Modular Classrooms are being built at the factory to be placed on site in the spring of 2026. 

The entire project should be completed by Fall of 2027. This week we finally received notice that all four segments of the project have been approved by DSA (Department of State Architecture). A long awaited milestone!  

Even as work continues on San Juan School, we are beginning the conversation about projects for improvements at Aromas School and Anzar High School.

Please consider bringing your ideas to our September 17 Town Hall where we will review and prioritize facility projects for the future.

• Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025 

• Time: Light Supper: 5:30 – 6:00 PM 

• Town Hall Meeting: 6:00 – 8:00 PM 

• Location: Anzar High School Library

Why Attend? 

We’re planning for the future of Aromas School and Anzar High School — and we need YOUR input. Join us for a collaborative evening with parents, teachers, and community members to help prioritize possible facility upgrades with our architectural team, Peartree+Belli.

RSVP Required 

Please RSVP by September 12, 2025 to msoto@asjusd.org 

Thank you for helping us reach our goal to confirm all parent data this fall. Aromas is the big winner to reach 100% DATA confirmation! San Juan is close behind and Anzar third. This will be an annual requirement as we must have up to date contact information, transportation information, etc. and receive required annual notifications. This also helps us to continue offering free meals for all students as we use accurate information to secure reimbursement for meal costs. Please mark  your calendar for next year when we will be asking you again for the same level of commitment and data confirmation.

• Board of Trustees Meeting on Wednesday, September 10, 2025

• Ed Foundation Fundraiser - Saturday, September 13, 2025

• Town Hall Wednesday, September 17th, 2025

• Facilities Committee Meeting - September 24, 2025