The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District recently welcomed education leaders from across California as part of the CISC Symposium in Monterey.
It was an opportunity to showcase our community schools in a presentation format, as well as site visits to two of our schools. We highlighted how MPUSD is using its community schools model to strengthen belonging, coherence, and student success.
Our team shared a clear message: Community schools are not an add-on or separate initiative. They are how we bring alignment to academics, wellness, and family engagement across our system.
During the visit, leaders saw community schools in action at the Dual Language Academy of the Monterey Peninsula and Seaside Middle School.
At DLAMP, visitors observed two-way bilingual instruction, strong student leadership, and a school culture that celebrates identity and belonging. At Seaside Middle School, leaders highlighted expanded family engagement, wraparound student supports, restorative practices, and enrichment opportunities that deepen student voice and ownership.
MPUSD also shared how we are narrowing priorities to increase impact by moving from many disconnected initiatives to a focused, coherent strategy across all sites. Through learning walks, shared metrics, and aligned goals, we measure not just programs, but student experience.
This work is ongoing. We are learning in what we call the “messy middle” and building systems that reflect identity, relevancy, and ownership in classrooms every day.
We are proud to share our journey and continue strengthening community schools to ensure every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.