Dear PESD Families,
The first day of school is almost here! I hope you had the opportunity to enjoy some rest over the summer and are looking forward to the start of a new school year.
Summer is always a busy time at PESD. More than 400 students attended our Summer STEAM Camp, where they spent their days creating, exploring, and discovering through hands-on learning. Thank you to the teachers, staff, and families who helped make this program such a success.
While students were enjoying their summer, our teachers, administrators, and staff were already preparing for the first day of school. Their hard work means we'll be welcoming students back with new opportunities, stronger supports, and exciting programs designed to help every child learn, lead and succeed.
As we count down to this Thursday, August 13th, I wanted to share a few of the highlights we're excited to bring to our students and families this year.
What You Can Expect This Year:
A Better Way to Learn Math
This year, we're introducing Innovamat, a research-based math curriculum that helps students think like mathematicians. Students will explore ideas, solve problems together, and discover how math connects to everyday life. We believe every student can be successful in math. Innovamat is designed to meet students where they are, helping build confidence while making math more engaging, accessible, and meaningful for learners at every level.
Expanded After-School Learning
Our enhanced after-school program creates a seamless extension of the school day across all PESD schools. By maintaining a safe and welcoming environment, reinforcing classroom learning, and offering expanded student enrichment opportunities, we provide a continuous stream of support, encouragement and opportunity to grow throughout the extended day.
Students will have access to:
Wellbeing & Belonging; relationships, confidence, teamwork, and self-regulation.
Academic Support; intervention, tutoring, and homework help.
Enrichment & VAPA; hands-on learning, arts, STEM, and clubs.
Sports & Wellness; physical activity, organized sports, and healthy habits.
Student & Family Voice; leadership, partnership, and co-creation.
We're also excited to continue partnering with Elevo, which will continue to provide sports programming and Saturday tournaments as part of our sports and wellness experiences as we double the number to six tournaments throughout this school year.
Partner With Us
Parents and families are essential partners in every child's success. Whether you volunteer, attend school events, or participate in a parent leadership group, your involvement helps strengthen our schools and support student success.
There are many ways to get involved:
Volunteer at your child's school.
Join a parent advisory group, including:
DELAC (District English Learner Advisory Committee)
ELAC (English Learner Advisory Committee at your child's school)
AAPAC (African American Parent Advisory Committee)
FACE (Family Advocacy Community Engagement)
Attend family workshops and school events.
Participate in English or Spanish language classes for parents.
To learn more, contact your school's Family Advocate (COFA) or check your school's weekly newsletter for upcoming meetings, workshops, and volunteer opportunities.
Let's Stay Connected
This year, I'll be visiting every school for Coffee & Conversation with the Superintendent; an opportunity to brew new ideas, bridge new relationships, and build a sense of belonging together through authentic and real partnership.
I also invite you to join us for our PESD 3.0 Community Connection meeting on August 19, at 9:00 a.m. in the Perris Elementary School MPR where I will share our district initiatives and updates, celebrate our successes, and discuss what's on the horizon for our district.
Thank you for trusting us with your children. We remain committed to creating schools where every student feels they belong here, are able to lead, and have daily opportunities to succeed.
We can't wait to welcome our students back on Thursday, August 13th, and look forward to partnering with you for another outstanding school year here at PESD.
Warmly,
Bruce Bivins, Superintendent
