Discover your desired story effortlessly: simply select one of the buttons below for instant navigation.

The first day of school was filled with excitement and joy as we welcomed students back to our campuses across the Claremont Unified School District. Classrooms and hallways buzzed with energy as students reconnected with friends, met their new teachers, and settled into their routines. From the warm smiles of our youngest learners starting their educational journey to our high school students' enthusiasm to take on new challenges, the sense of community was palpable. It was wonderful to see our campuses come alive again, and we are looking forward to a fantastic school year filled with learning, growth, and memorable moments!

Thanks to a generous donation by the Claremont Sunrise Rotary, San Antonio High School students enjoyed Kona Ice on the first day of school. Sunrise Rotary is a huge supporter of the Model Continuation High School supporting students so that they have a full high school experience. Dr. Rick Lopez, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, Cindy Rainey and Emily Moultrie-Brown receive a warm thank you from a group of seniors. 

As the new school year begins, Claremont Unified School District is deeply grateful for the incredible support from our community partners, who have played a crucial role in ensuring our students are ready to thrive. Through generous donations of backpacks, shoes, and school supplies, our partners have lightened the load for families and set our students up for success.

Project Boon, a nonprofit dedicated to combating food insecurity and supporting the community, made a significant impact by donating 120 backpacks filled with essential supplies. Known for its mission to leverage local businesses to help under-resourced individuals, Project Boon has been a steadfast ally, providing crucial support to students in need.

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Claremont also played a key role, donating 50 backpacks for CUSD students, and Shoes That Fit provided both shoes and backpacks. Shoes That Fit's mission of empowering children to step forward into a bright future is evident in every donation, aiming to boost students' confidence, attendance, and joy. Additionally, Claremont Toyota, in partnership with the Claremont Police Foundation, hosted a Back-to-School Giveaway, ensuring students received the shoes and backpacks they need. These efforts reflect the values of our community and the incredible power of working together to support our youth.

CUSD deeply appreciates these community partners' ongoing generosity and dedication. Their continued support and partnership make a real difference in the lives of our students, helping them start the school year equipped, confident, and ready to learn. Thank you for making an impact in our community and for continuing to stand behind our students!

Claremont Unified School District recently welcomed 28 teachers, including those who joined mid-year last school year, with a special two-day orientation event before the start of the new academic year. The orientation kicked off with a red carpet arrival, where district staff greeted and cheered for the teachers, making them feel celebrated and supported. Board President Bob Fass and Superintendent Dr. Jim Elsasser set the tone for the day, highlighting the unique qualities of CUSD and expressing their excitement to have these educators join the team. Throughout the event, the teachers learned about essential classroom tools, set up their iPads, and explored strategies to hit the ground running as CUSD employees.

The second day of orientation featured a bus tour of the district's school sites, led by Assistant Superintendent of Student Services Kevin Ward, who shared the history and stories behind each school. This unique experience helped the new teachers connect with the district's community and legacy, providing a deeper understanding of CUSD's impact on its students and families. The orientation was a great blend of practical learning, inspiration, and a warm welcome, setting the stage for these new teachers to thrive in their roles. We're thrilled to have them on board and look forward to the positive impact they will make!

To kick off the 2024-2025 school year, Claremont Unified School District's Educational Services Department hosted a vibrant professional development day for teachers themed "Igniting Our Why." Held at Claremont High School, the day began with a special Welcome Back Rally inside the gym, where three distinguished CUSD alumni shared how their experiences in our schools shaped their lives. Their powerful stories underscored the impact that every teacher can have, setting an inspiring tone for the day. These heartfelt testimonies reminded our educators of their significant role in shaping their students' futures.

After the rally, teachers had the opportunity to attend breakout sessions tailored to their interests and teaching needs, which they had selected in advance. The sessions covered various topics, including strategies for integrating performing arts into the classroom, effective grading practices, STEAM, and the science of reading. From learning about culturally and linguistically responsive teaching tools to exploring innovative approaches to leveraging AI in writing letters of recommendation, educators are left with new ideas and resources to enhance their teaching practice. The varied workshops were designed to equip teachers with practical skills and fresh perspectives to start the school year strong.

The day was about professional growth and, reconnecting and reaffirming the core purpose of teaching. As educators attended workshops like "The Trauma Informed Educator" and "Empowering Student Voices Through Digital Storytelling," they were reminded of the power they have to make a difference in each student's life. The event highlighted the district's commitment to supporting teachers with ongoing learning opportunities and fostering a collaborative environment where educators can thrive. CUSD set the stage for an impactful and inspiring school year ahead by reigniting their passion and sense of purpose.

The Claremont High School orchestra and band kicked off the school year by visiting all CUSD elementary schools, performing for students to spark interest in the Elementary Music Program. Their lively performances gave students a taste of what it’s like to be part of a music ensemble, encouraging them to explore their musical talents. Registration for the Elementary Music Program is now open for 4th, 5th, and 6th graders at all CUSD elementary schools, with classes beginning the week of October 7-11, 2024. To participate, students must submit registration forms to their school office by September 13, 2024, for priority placement. Instrument rentals are available through local vendors or on loan from the district, and students should have instruments ready by the first day of class. For more details, visit the Elementary Music page on the CUSD website or email elementarymusic@cusd.claremont.edu. Don’t miss the opportunity to make music this year—register today!

We are thrilled to share that “On The Curb,” a PSA created by Claremont High School graduates Talina Shariatzadeh, Eli Kupetz, Kailey Wen, Christian Godoy, and Conor Distaso in their 2018 Advanced Video Production class, is making a national impact. Starring Kailee Landis, this compelling road safety film was selected by GSTV and Streets Are For Everyone (SAFE) to be featured on gas pump screens across the country during National Traffic Awareness Month. Running from August 19 through September 15, this 15-second clip will reach millions of drivers, reminding them of the importance of road safety as they refuel. GSTV, which reaches 115 million unique viewers each month across 49 states, provides a powerful platform for these talented students to share their message and make a difference. We are incredibly proud of our Claremont High School alumni for using their creativity to promote safer streets!

This year's Fourth of July Parade in Claremont had a special touch of CUSD pride, with two of our own leading the way. Dr. Brett O'Connor, former Principal of Claremont High School and current Interim Child Development Director, was honored as the Grand Marshal. Known for his 16 years at Claremont High and deep ties to the community, O'Connor embraced the honor with gratitude, reflecting on the many years he has spent fostering growth in and out of the classroom. Following his role as Grand Marshal, O'Connor could be found working the Rotary Club's dunk tank, a nod to his longstanding commitment to local service.

Kevin Ward, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services, was recognized as an Honored Citizen. A fixture in Claremont since 1994, Ward has been a dedicated advocate for students and families through his work in the district and his volunteer efforts as a Scoutmaster with Boy Scouts Troop 402, where he helped guide 28  Scouts to earn the rank of Eagle Scout. The parade served as a unique celebration of Ward's dedication, bringing together his past and present roles in the district and community.

The participation of O'Connor and Ward in this year's parade is a testament to their strong ties to Claremont and their commitment to community service. Their presence highlighted their decades of dedication to education and youth development and underscored the values that make Claremont Unified School District a proud part of our city.

Claremont Unified School District is proud to celebrate the retirement of Olivia Vioral, a dedicated educator who has served in numerous roles throughout her impactful career. Olivia began and concluded her time at CUSD as a paraeducator supporting English Learners, a role in which she truly made her mark. She also spent years at Vista del Valle Elementary School as a paraeducator and Media Lab Tech, always bringing a warm, welcoming presence to her students. Her dedication to student success was evident in every interaction, especially as she worked with newcomers to the United States, offering them a friendly face and a calm, caring approach during their initial English Learner testing. Olivia's commitment to these students ensured their first academic experience in CUSD was filled with understanding, trust, and high expectations.

Before her retirement, Assistant Superintendent Julie Olesniewicz presented Olivia Vioral with a CUSD Challenge Coin to honor her incredible contributions to the district. Dr. Natalie Taylor Barbiera, Director of Educational Services, who worked closely with Olivia, shared, "I have worked with Olivia for twenty years, and I know that her thoughtful approach to caring for English Learner students has set the bar for every person who will perform this duty after her. I am grateful to have been her partner in education and wish her well in her retirement." Olivia's legacy is one of compassion, dedication, and unwavering support for English Learner students. We are grateful for her many years of service and wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement!

You are signing up for the CUSD Celebrates! mailing list. If you are interested in being featured, please email ekong@cusd.claremont.edu.