Dear SSD Families,

Summer is approaching once again with what seems to be impossible speed. Our teachers are already facing typical end-of-year emotions: a little sadness mixed with joyful celebration as their students prepare to leave their class and move up to the next grade level. It’s the core of our work – preparing students for the next level of learning, the next year of life – and one we take to heart in our district, working to improve our effectiveness every day. This year we made great steps forward, completing our new strategic plan and, with tremendous support from our community, passing Measure C.

Our new strategic plan outlines the specific goals we are working to achieve, and the new Portrait of a Sunnyvale Learner serves as our guide. We strive to build students who:

• Are critical thinkers and effective communicators
• Are resilient lifelong learners
• Have healthy minds and bodies
• Are effective collaborators in a global society

The plan captures strategic actions that are designed to boost student learning and put our values into action in a real and tangible way.

Measure C will allow us to continue to support our Facilities Master Plan, which timelines facilities improvements that align with our educational goals. The Measure will bring in funds to renovate older schools, improve our instructional technology, and increase safety and security for schools across the district. The bond passed far beyond the necessary 55% majority vote, which reflects the importance our neighbors place on education and our community’s regard for its children. I speak for our entire district when I say I am grateful to every person who supported this effort. We thank you for your trust.

Thank you to our faculty, classified staff, partners, volunteers, and student families. You’ve made this year’s accomplishments possible, demonstrating your dedication and passion through your work every day, benefiting our children and earning our deepest gratitude.

I wish you all a lovely summer.

Michael Gallagher, Ed.D.

Our Promise:  

Every student is known by name, strength, and need, ready to excel in high school and beyond, and to lead a life of joy and purpose.