In this uplifting episode of the oneSMFC podcast, Director of Communications Diego Perez is joined by Lead Elementary Principal Natalie Delahant, Fiesta Gardens International School Principal Daniel Robles, Boys & Girls Club Site Director Lorena Alcayaga, and Hector Lopez, a proud parent from Sunnybrae Elementary.

Together, they explore the real impact of the San Mateo-Foster City School District’s Community Schools Initiative—one year into receiving a $5 million grant from the California Department of Education. From after-school enrichment like ukulele and coding to empowering parents through PIQE workshops, this episode highlights how wraparound services are transforming school culture, family engagement, and student pride.

Hear powerful stories of parent empowerment, growing student confidence, and authentic partnerships with the Boys & Girls Club that extend far beyond the school day.

If you’ve ever wondered what’s really possible when a school becomes the heart of a community, this is the episode to tune into.

Learn more about the Community Schools Initiative on our website.

Interested in learning more? Check out our recent On the Road to Year 3 Annual Report!

In this special episode of the oneSMFC podcast, Board Clerk Maggie Trinh and Board Trustee Gene Kim join Director of Communications Diego Perez to offer valuable insights into the Board Trustee Area 3 vacancy. Together, they walk the community through the district's transparent and thoughtful approach to selecting the newest board member.

If you’re interested in applying and live within one of the eligible school neighborhoods, check out the details below to learn more about the process and how you can get involved!

The San Mateo-Foster City School District is accepting applications for appointment to the Trustee Area 3 vacancy. Please contact the Superintendent’s Office at (650) 312-7348 to request an application packet. You may also email Superintendent Ochoa at diegoochoa@smfcsd.net. Applications can be found online by visiting www.smfcsd.net.

Any person is eligible to be a member of the Board of Trustees if he/she is:

• 18 years of age or older
• a U.S. citizen
• a resident of the SMFCSD Trustee Area 3
• a registered voter
• not legally disqualified from holding a civil office

A person is disqualified from holding any office upon conviction of designated crimes specified in the Constitution and laws of the state. (Government Code 1021) An employee of a school district may not be sworn into office as an elected or appointed member of that school district’s governing board unless and until he or she resigns as an employee. If the employee does not resign, the employment will automatically terminate upon being sworn into office. (Education Code 35107)

The complete application and any supporting materials must be received via email or in the Superintendent’s Office at the San Mateo-Foster City School District office located at 1170 Chess Dr. Foster City, CA, no later than 5:00 p.m. on December 6, 2024.

Open Board Position - Trustee Area 3

The current board vacancy seat is in Trustee Area 3 with a 4-year term. The following schools are located within the area boundary:

• Borel Middle School
• Baywood Elementary School
• Highlands Elementary
• Meadow Heights Elementary
• San Mateo Park Elementary School

Interested candidates may view the Board Trustee Seats in the Trustee Area Map to view the 5 Board Trustee Areas and their associated neighborhood schools (Printable PDF Board Trustee Seats in Trustee Area Map). If you reside within the boundary of Trustee Area 3, you are eligible to apply if you meet the additional requirements listed above. [Click here to access the PDF printable and fillable application.]

It is anticipated that the Board of Trustees will interview applicants and make an appointment on December 12, 2024.

Interested in learning more? Check out our recent On the Road to Year 3 Annual Report!

In this heartwarming episode of the oneSMFC Podcast, Superintendent Diego Ochoa joins two dedicated preschool teachers, Miroslava Salmeron and Doa Higazi, along with parent Brisi Bautista, to delve into the impactful world of early childhood education.

Together, they discuss the transformative benefits of free preschool access and how it enriches the whole child in the San Mateo-Foster City School District. With stories of children's first steps in socialization, play, and self-discovery, they share how preschool helps kids develop essential life skills, from building friendships to fostering a love for learning.

Brisi's experience underscores the challenges faced by new families and the profound support the district offers, ensuring that every child finds a welcoming, vibrant learning environment. This episode celebrates the joy, dedication, and essential community that free preschool brings to families and students alike.

Learn more about the Preschool Equity Summit and other District Summits by visiting our website.

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Translations for Spanish speaking guest:

:10-:20
“I liked that he is with other students, learned new things, and began to form their character.”

3:20 - 3:40

“My name is Brisi. I am 23, and I have a student who is named Kayler, and he is four years old”

8:00 - 8:30

“Did you enroll your child in Turnbull at the age of three?”

“Yes”.

“Why was it important for you to do it at that age?”

“First of all, because he's an only child and we do not have other kids to play or talk to. We like that. He's talking with other kids. They learn new ideas, learn from each other, discover new things and find their personalities.”

“From a young age, enrolling him to Turnbull. Was it easy? Was it difficult? How did it go?”

“Well, we arrived three years ago, in our first year, we enrolled him. To us, is something completely new. Back in our country, it was easy, but here it was tough. We didn't have medical insurance. It was expensive in the hospital to get his physical exam. We faced some difficulties, but the teachers helped us.”

“I appreciate you telling us all of that because people behind us want it to be free, everything has to be free. We have to help the families receive services so it doesn't cost much, perhaps just time signing the papers, but it's part of what we want to change in this community: open the doors to preschool, not close them. When your kid goes to school, how does he feel? What does he say when he comes back home?”

“Sometimes I asked him, How was your day? And he says, the teacher gave me a burger. Gave me fries. We were singing. We played in the park.”

“For him, playing outside is their park.”

10:40 - 11:40

“It's accessible for children in wheelchairs too. Everything is new. The grass is new, the toys are new. It's our way to tell the families that we want their children to have a pretty space, fully accessible. As a parent, what do you think we can do to help families even more? What could we do to help you and your son even more?”

“Well, personally, I really like the assistance at the principal office. I like that it's fast when we take and pick up our child, how they receive us, the teachers are always kind and welcoming, and it's something that makes us happy.It's not like, Oh no, why do I have to bring him here? Everyone is so kind.”

16:10 - 16:27

“We had free classes for many years, and the district shut them dow

Interested in learning more? Check out our recent On the Road to Year 3 Annual Report!