San Mateo-Foster City School District

Superintendent

Superintendent's Letter - June 2017

Dear San Mateo-Foster City Community,

A demanding but productive school year has drawn to a close.  As we move into summer break, it is fitting to take a moment to reflect on how far we have come and to enjoy the end of the year activities.

To the families of eighth graders, I send you warm congratulations and appreciation.  Thank you for the privilege of educating and nurturing your children in order to prepare them for their high school careers.  Thank you for your efforts in supporting them and their schools in such significant ways.

I also want to recognize each of our staff members for the talent, energy and care they bring to their work.  Together, they are making a visible difference for our students, families and community.  

Last but not least, I would like to wish our retirees all the best in their next endeavors.  Their service and dedication to our students and community will be appreciated for years to come.

Measure X Facilities
We are full steam ahead with our Phase 1 projects which include a new elementary school in Foster City, the gyms and classrooms at Abbott and Borel Middle Schools, and a gym at the Bayside Academy.  Phase 2 projects are slated to begin in 2019 and include replacing and adding classrooms at Bowditch Middle School, new classrooms and multipurpose rooms at Sunnybrae and George Hall Elementary Schools and a new neighborhood elementary school on the undeveloped portion of the College Park/Turnbull campus.  Please continue to follow our progress on the Measure X page of the SMFCSD website.

Special Meeting: Parcel Tax/Budget Study & School Board Candidate Info. Session
On Thursday, June 8, 2017 Trustees for the San Mateo–Foster City School District held a special meeting to review the budget shortfall created by the loss of the Measure Y Parcel Tax and escalating STRS and PERS costs.  This structural deficit must be addressed, as a balanced, three-year budget must to be submitted to the San Mateo County Office of Education for approval this June.  Trustees examined reductions that will be made in the 2017-2018 year as well as potential reductions needed in the 2018-2020 years.  They also examined potential revenue enhancements over the same three year period. 
 
A renewed effort to pass a parcel tax was discussed by the Trustees with the parent and community members who were in attendance that evening.  As you know, Measure Y was narrowly defeated by a 1.47% margin.  The District thanks our volunteers and those who came out in support of the Measure for bringing it so close to renewal.  Further discussions regarding a ballot measure will be placed on upcoming Board agendas.
 
The evening ended with an opportunity for the assembled group to hear why our Trustees chose to run for election to the School Board and to ask questions about the process and their roles and responsibilities.  This November 2017, three of the present Trustees on the San Mateo–Foster City School Board have decided not to run for re-election.  If you were not able to attend the Candidate Forum and have questions about the process, please contact our Board President, Chelsea Bonini, or any member of the Board of Trustees.  Additionally, if you would like to know more about the work of the District, you can contact me at jrosas@smfcsd.net.  I would be happy to discuss our special projects with you!

Thank you for your devotion, individually and collectively, to our schools as we educate and inspire students to live, lead, and learn with integrity and joy. Best wishes for your summer!

Sincerely,
Joan Rosas, Ed.D.
Superintendent

Q:  How do I pre-register my children for school?

A: Please visit the How to Register page for information about school registration.

Q: What school is closest to me?

A: Use the SchoolFinder to find out. You can also look at the district map.

Q: What are SMFCSD's Magnet Schools/Programs?

A: Yes. View the list of Magnet Schools.

Q: How old must a child be to enter Kindergarten or Transitional Kindergarten (TK)?

A: To be eligible for Kindergarten, the student’s 5th birthday must be on or before September 1.  To be eligible for TK, the student’s 5th birthday must fall on or between September 2 – December 2.  Attend a SMFCSD Kindergarten Information Meeting in November/January to find out more about what to expect - Enrollment & Student Registration.

San Mateo-Foster City School District is hiring. View openings:

• Employment Opportunities – Certificated
• Employment Opportunities – Classified
• Employment Opportunities – Management
• Employment Opportunities – Other Positions

Substitute Teaching Positions

Do you have a Bachelor’s degree and teaching, coaching or other experiences working with students? Consider becoming a substitute teacher for our District. View details