🧥💙 COATS FOR KIDS! 💙🧥
Help keep our SSUSD students warm this winter! We’re collecting gently used coats in sizes 4T–4XXL, free of tears and stains.
📅 Help us prepare for cooler temperatures November 2–6. Donations are welcome all season!
📍 SSUSD Family Resource Center
1305 N. Norma St. (Sierra Vista Shopping Center)
🕗 Monday–Friday | 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
☕ Bring a coat, grab a hot coffee or hot chocolate, and help warm our community—one coat at a time!
Thank you for supporting our students and families! 💙
Help keep our SSUSD students warm this winter! We’re collecting gently used coats in sizes 4T–4XXL, free of tears and stains.
📅 Help us prepare for cooler temperatures November 2–6. Donations are welcome all season!
📍 SSUSD Family Resource Center
1305 N. Norma St. (Sierra Vista Shopping Center)
🕗 Monday–Friday | 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
☕ Bring a coat, grab a hot coffee or hot chocolate, and help warm our community—one coat at a time!
Thank you for supporting our students and families! 💙
You are invited to attend the next Parent Info Series session, Navigating IEPs and SSTs! We provide a light dinner and child care. Please see details and sign up at:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSew4AbvmOnjZ_ChNmyvee6H2hvQY3KKnbyVqhDK6BEeOkKMKg/viewform?usp=header
Thursday, October 22 from 6:00-7:00 p.m. at 1325 N. Norma St.
This session is provided by Nicole Henson, SSUSD Coordinator of Special Education, SELPA.
In this session, parents will gain a clear, step-by-step understanding of the Student Success Team (SST) and Individualized Education Program (IEP) processes to help advocate effectively for their child's unique needs. We will cover key roles, timelines, and practical strategies for collaborating as an equal partner with teachers and school staff.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSew4AbvmOnjZ_ChNmyvee6H2hvQY3KKnbyVqhDK6BEeOkKMKg/viewform?usp=header
Thursday, October 22 from 6:00-7:00 p.m. at 1325 N. Norma St.
This session is provided by Nicole Henson, SSUSD Coordinator of Special Education, SELPA.
In this session, parents will gain a clear, step-by-step understanding of the Student Success Team (SST) and Individualized Education Program (IEP) processes to help advocate effectively for their child's unique needs. We will cover key roles, timelines, and practical strategies for collaborating as an equal partner with teachers and school staff.
♻️ Big thanks to Waste Management for stopping by Pierce Academy of the Arts today for an awesome all-school assembly!
Our students had a blast learning all about the importance of recycling, reducing waste, and taking care of our planet. 🌍✨
The highlights of the day? Our students put their new knowledge to the test in an exciting recycling game—and walked away with some fantastic prizes! 🏆🎉
We are so proud of our young eco-heroes for their enthusiasm in keeping our community clean and green. Let’s keep that recycling momentum going at home! 💚👏
The SSUSD Family Resource Center Community Care Closet is moving OUTSIDE for the day! Stop by Monday, October 5 from 8:00 AM–5:00 PM for free seasonal clothing for kids, women, and men.
We hope to see you there! 🍁
We hope to see you there! 🍁
💙 Parent Information Session #2: Early Learning & Child Safety
📅 Thursday, September 24 | 6:00–7:00 p.m.
📍 1325 N. Norma Street (Sierra Vista Shopping Center)
Join us for our second Parent Information Session, featuring Eric LeBarbe’ from Oasis at CAPK!
Learn about resources to support your child’s early learning and development, including:
👶 Ages & Stages Questionnaires (ASQs) for children ages 0–5
🧩 Early learning and child development resources
🚗 Child car seat safety
💡 Local resources and support for families
This is a great opportunity to get practical information, ask questions, and connect with a local community partner!
🌟 Each session in our series features a different topic and community partner, with resources designed to support our families.
You’re welcome to pop in, but dinner and childcare are guaranteed when you sign up in advance.
👉 Sign up: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1UyD7u_SzqEvxc1mQfsnWaIO6-slM3s1VrpFEU-OwRy4/edit
We hope to see you there! 💙
📅 Thursday, September 24 | 6:00–7:00 p.m.
📍 1325 N. Norma Street (Sierra Vista Shopping Center)
Join us for our second Parent Information Session, featuring Eric LeBarbe’ from Oasis at CAPK!
Learn about resources to support your child’s early learning and development, including:
👶 Ages & Stages Questionnaires (ASQs) for children ages 0–5
🧩 Early learning and child development resources
🚗 Child car seat safety
💡 Local resources and support for families
This is a great opportunity to get practical information, ask questions, and connect with a local community partner!
🌟 Each session in our series features a different topic and community partner, with resources designed to support our families.
You’re welcome to pop in, but dinner and childcare are guaranteed when you sign up in advance.
👉 Sign up: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1UyD7u_SzqEvxc1mQfsnWaIO6-slM3s1VrpFEU-OwRy4/edit
We hope to see you there! 💙
🍳 Breakfast Is Available at All School Sites!
A nutritious breakfast helps students start the school day ready to learn, focus, and succeed. Make breakfast part of your child’s morning routine!
🥣 One free breakfast per student is available every school day, at every school site.
🌟 Scratch breakfast is offered a minimum of three days a week, with muffins, bagels, cereal, and other whole grain options available daily.
The Child Nutrition department does its best to provide your student with the fuel they need for a great day. To view our breakfast menus, visit ssusdcafe.com
Start the morning with breakfast! 💙📚
A nutritious breakfast helps students start the school day ready to learn, focus, and succeed. Make breakfast part of your child’s morning routine!
🥣 One free breakfast per student is available every school day, at every school site.
🌟 Scratch breakfast is offered a minimum of three days a week, with muffins, bagels, cereal, and other whole grain options available daily.
The Child Nutrition department does its best to provide your student with the fuel they need for a great day. To view our breakfast menus, visit ssusdcafe.com
Start the morning with breakfast! 💙📚
💚 Join Us for the Fall 2026 Parent Information Series! 💚
Parents and families—join us for one session or all six! This series brings families valuable information and resources on health care, early learning, child safety, resilience, special education, mental health, and college opportunities.
📅 Thursdays | 6:00–7:00 p.m.
📍 1325 N. Norma St. (Sierra Vista Shopping Center)
🎓 Session Topics:
✨ Sept. 3 — “Medi-Cal with KFHC”
✨ Sept. 24 — “Early Learning and Child Safety”
✨ Oct. 8 — “Mindful Toolbox: Raising Resilient Kids”
✨ Oct. 22 — “Navigating IEPs and SSTs”
✨ Nov. 5 — “Mental Health: Resources and Support”
✨ Nov. 12 — “Why Cerro Coso?”
🍽️ Dinner and child care are provided with sign-up. Limited slots available.
📲 Scan the QR code on the flyer for details and reservations! Or, click link here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1UyD7u_SzqEvxc1mQfsnWaIO6-slM3s1VrpFEU-OwRy4/edit?ts=6a7f7166
For more information: (760) 499-1780 | sdastrup@ssusd.org
Parents and families—join us for one session or all six! This series brings families valuable information and resources on health care, early learning, child safety, resilience, special education, mental health, and college opportunities.
📅 Thursdays | 6:00–7:00 p.m.
📍 1325 N. Norma St. (Sierra Vista Shopping Center)
🎓 Session Topics:
✨ Sept. 3 — “Medi-Cal with KFHC”
✨ Sept. 24 — “Early Learning and Child Safety”
✨ Oct. 8 — “Mindful Toolbox: Raising Resilient Kids”
✨ Oct. 22 — “Navigating IEPs and SSTs”
✨ Nov. 5 — “Mental Health: Resources and Support”
✨ Nov. 12 — “Why Cerro Coso?”
🍽️ Dinner and child care are provided with sign-up. Limited slots available.
📲 Scan the QR code on the flyer for details and reservations! Or, click link here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1UyD7u_SzqEvxc1mQfsnWaIO6-slM3s1VrpFEU-OwRy4/edit?ts=6a7f7166
For more information: (760) 499-1780 | sdastrup@ssusd.org
🎉 You're Invited to our "Party in the Parking Lot" Community Resource Fair This Week! 🎉
Explore valuable local services while enjoying:
🎁 Free supplies and giveaways
🎶 Live DJ with music
🌮 Delicious food truck
🚒 Interactive static displays
🎲 Games and activities for all ages
Whether you're looking for helpful resources, family fun, or a chance to connect with your community, there's something for everyone.
Everyone is welcome—bring your family, invite your friends, and join us for a great day! We can't wait to see you there!
🎉 Everyone's Invited! 🎉
The countdown is on—just 2 weeks until SSUSD's inaugural "Party in the Parking Lot" Community Resource Fair!
📅 Thursday, July 30
🕕 6:00–8:00 p.m.
📍 Sierra Vista Shopping Center (1305 N. Norma)
This is your chance to connect with organizations and services that support our students, families, and community—all in one place!
Here's what you can look forward to:
⭐ 35 community resource organizations (and counting!)
⭐ SSUSD departments
⭐ 3 static displays
⭐ 1 mobile health clinic
⭐ 2 food trucks
⭐ 4 Sierra Vista Shopping Center storefronts
⭐ Live DJ
⭐ Drone obstacle course
⭐ CPR demonstrations
⭐ Hands-on building activities
⭐ Lawn and table games
⭐ FREE school supplies, giveaways, and swag!
We're still adding participants, so stay tuned for the final list the week of the event.
Bring your family and friends and join us for an evening of fun, learning, and community. We can't wait to see you there!
The countdown is on—just 2 weeks until SSUSD's inaugural "Party in the Parking Lot" Community Resource Fair!
📅 Thursday, July 30
🕕 6:00–8:00 p.m.
📍 Sierra Vista Shopping Center (1305 N. Norma)
This is your chance to connect with organizations and services that support our students, families, and community—all in one place!
Here's what you can look forward to:
⭐ 35 community resource organizations (and counting!)
⭐ SSUSD departments
⭐ 3 static displays
⭐ 1 mobile health clinic
⭐ 2 food trucks
⭐ 4 Sierra Vista Shopping Center storefronts
⭐ Live DJ
⭐ Drone obstacle course
⭐ CPR demonstrations
⭐ Hands-on building activities
⭐ Lawn and table games
⭐ FREE school supplies, giveaways, and swag!
We're still adding participants, so stay tuned for the final list the week of the event.
Bring your family and friends and join us for an evening of fun, learning, and community. We can't wait to see you there!
Summer is flying by! If you have not already registered, now is a great time to sign up for the free 2026–27 Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) with Elevo. Registration and information is located at https://sierrasandsusdca.sites.thrillshare.com/page/expanded-learning.
🎉 Just One Month Away! 🎉
Join us for a fun-filled Back-to-School event as we get ready for an amazing new school year together!
📚 Community Resources
💡 Helpful Information
💉 Immunizations
🌮 Food Trucks
🎶 DJ & Music
🚌 Static Displays
✨ And so much more!
Bring your family, connect with community partners, and get everything you need for a successful start to the school year. We can't wait to see you there!
Join us for a fun-filled Back-to-School event as we get ready for an amazing new school year together!
📚 Community Resources
💡 Helpful Information
💉 Immunizations
🌮 Food Trucks
🎶 DJ & Music
🚌 Static Displays
✨ And so much more!
Bring your family, connect with community partners, and get everything you need for a successful start to the school year. We can't wait to see you there!
🌞 Sierra Sands USD Summer Programs Are Underway! 🌞
We’re excited to welcome students and families to both our Extended School Year (ESY) and High School Summer School programs! We look forward to a successful and enriching summer for all our students! 💙
#SierraSandsUSD #SummerSchool #ESY #StudentSuccess #RidgecrestSchools
We’re excited to welcome students and families to both our Extended School Year (ESY) and High School Summer School programs! We look forward to a successful and enriching summer for all our students! 💙
#SierraSandsUSD #SummerSchool #ESY #StudentSuccess #RidgecrestSchools
☀️ HDLL has officially started its first full week of the Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) Summer Intersession! ☀️
We're excited to welcome students for a summer filled with learning, enrichment, fun, numerous guest presenters, and special activities designed to keep students engaged all summer long.
🕖 ELOP Program Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
🏢 High Desert Leapin' Lizards (HDLL) Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
📍 1311 N. Norma
🏢 SSUSD Expanded Learning Program Coordinator Office: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
📍 1305 N. Norma
If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to your site supervisors. For additional support, contact the Expanded Learning Program Office at:
📧 expandedlearning@ssusd.org
📞 760-499-1780
We look forward to a safe, enriching, and memorable summer with our students and families! 🌞📚🎨⚽
We're excited to welcome students for a summer filled with learning, enrichment, fun, numerous guest presenters, and special activities designed to keep students engaged all summer long.
🕖 ELOP Program Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
🏢 High Desert Leapin' Lizards (HDLL) Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
📍 1311 N. Norma
🏢 SSUSD Expanded Learning Program Coordinator Office: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
📍 1305 N. Norma
If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to your site supervisors. For additional support, contact the Expanded Learning Program Office at:
📧 expandedlearning@ssusd.org
📞 760-499-1780
We look forward to a safe, enriching, and memorable summer with our students and families! 🌞📚🎨⚽
More Learning, More Fun, More ELOP!
Now is the perfect time to plan ahead for fall! Register early for the 2026–27 Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) with Elevo.
The Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) provides free before-school, after-school, and intersession enrichment programs (winter, spring, and summer) for students in transitional kindergarten through sixth grade. Students in seventh and eighth grade at Vieweg STEM Academy are also eligible.
Register online now with Elevo for the 2026–27 school year. Register at https://elevolearning.com/sierra-sands-unified-school-district/. Learn more at https://sierrasandsusdca.sites.thrillshare.com/page/expanded-learning.
You’re invited to our next “Meet and Greet” community connection event featuring the Ridgecrest Crisis Stabilization Unit.
This open-house style event is an opportunity for parents, educators, staff, and community professionals to learn more about the services and supports available for children, teens, and families in crisis. Whether you’re seeking information for yourself, a student, a family member, or someone you may refer, we welcome you to attend.
📍 SSUSD Family Resource Center (1305 N. Norma)
📅 June 2
⏰ 5:00–6:00 p.m.
Why attend?
• Learn what the Crisis Stabilization Unit does
• Understand how referrals and support services work
• Connect with local mental health resources
• Ask questions in a relaxed, informal setting
• Strengthen our community network of support for students and families
We hope to see you there!
This open-house style event is an opportunity for parents, educators, staff, and community professionals to learn more about the services and supports available for children, teens, and families in crisis. Whether you’re seeking information for yourself, a student, a family member, or someone you may refer, we welcome you to attend.
📍 SSUSD Family Resource Center (1305 N. Norma)
📅 June 2
⏰ 5:00–6:00 p.m.
Why attend?
• Learn what the Crisis Stabilization Unit does
• Understand how referrals and support services work
• Connect with local mental health resources
• Ask questions in a relaxed, informal setting
• Strengthen our community network of support for students and families
We hope to see you there!
☕ Coffee with the Superintendent ☕
Please join us for Conversation & Community on Thursday, May 21, from 7:30–8:30 AM at Beansters in Ridgecrest.
This is a relaxed, open time to connect, listen, and answer questions. As a school district, we value community input and partnership, and we welcome your ideas and feedback.
All are welcome. We hope to see you there!
Please join us for Conversation & Community on Thursday, May 21, from 7:30–8:30 AM at Beansters in Ridgecrest.
This is a relaxed, open time to connect, listen, and answer questions. As a school district, we value community input and partnership, and we welcome your ideas and feedback.
All are welcome. We hope to see you there!
Registration season is here! ☀️ Sign up now for ELOP summer programs, get ahead with 2026–27 registration, and submit your Attendance Recovery (AR) preference—all in one place.
The Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) provides free before- and after-school, and intersession (winter, spring, and summer) school enrichment programs for transitional kindergarten through sixth grade. *Seventh and eighth graders at Vieweg STEM Academy are also included.
Click here to register online with Elevo for School Year 26-27:
https://elevolearning.com/sierra-sands-unified-school-district/
Click here to register online with HDLL for School Year 25-26 and summer (in English):
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1wf4fOk0OyCiYb57WG-sf6_e-Ej4OM4Zrtm0nQwIVm10/viewform?edit_requested=true
Click here to register online with HDLL for School Year 25-26 and summer (in Spanish):
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1fXELSQATGczX_vV-GBdmjrtXy4nqb2oEXGOSuntSZEY/viewform?edit_requested=true
Families interested in participating in the ELOP Summer 2026 Program must submit a hard copy participation intent form or fill out the online participation intent form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1qm8ghKSTPiQ9J0GFjNqAsK3RKwV7hiCN9gifxDopIfA/edit?ts=69f3be8f
If your child attends an elementary school and participates in the Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP), Attendance Recovery (AR) is available as part of the program.
During this time, students may choose to attend one of the following one-hour options offered concurrently:
--Homework Time with HDLL staff (School Year 2025–2026) / Homework Coaching & Academic Support with Elevo staff (School Year 2026–2027 and beyond)
--Attendance Recovery (AR) with a certificated teacher, which will include homework help, study packets, and/or educational activities
Students may choose to participate in either option each day.
If you prefer that your student not attend Attendance Recovery, please complete the online form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1lARLdtbonY6ue1fYS9WbfJWASJwbCAOfMiinvKQqTLU/edit
Submit one AR form per student.
The Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) provides free before- and after-school, and intersession (winter, spring, and summer) school enrichment programs for transitional kindergarten through sixth grade. *Seventh and eighth graders at Vieweg STEM Academy are also included.
Click here to register online with Elevo for School Year 26-27:
https://elevolearning.com/sierra-sands-unified-school-district/
Click here to register online with HDLL for School Year 25-26 and summer (in English):
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1wf4fOk0OyCiYb57WG-sf6_e-Ej4OM4Zrtm0nQwIVm10/viewform?edit_requested=true
Click here to register online with HDLL for School Year 25-26 and summer (in Spanish):
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1fXELSQATGczX_vV-GBdmjrtXy4nqb2oEXGOSuntSZEY/viewform?edit_requested=true
Families interested in participating in the ELOP Summer 2026 Program must submit a hard copy participation intent form or fill out the online participation intent form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1qm8ghKSTPiQ9J0GFjNqAsK3RKwV7hiCN9gifxDopIfA/edit?ts=69f3be8f
If your child attends an elementary school and participates in the Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP), Attendance Recovery (AR) is available as part of the program.
During this time, students may choose to attend one of the following one-hour options offered concurrently:
--Homework Time with HDLL staff (School Year 2025–2026) / Homework Coaching & Academic Support with Elevo staff (School Year 2026–2027 and beyond)
--Attendance Recovery (AR) with a certificated teacher, which will include homework help, study packets, and/or educational activities
Students may choose to participate in either option each day.
If you prefer that your student not attend Attendance Recovery, please complete the online form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1lARLdtbonY6ue1fYS9WbfJWASJwbCAOfMiinvKQqTLU/edit
Submit one AR form per student.
Big news for the Sierra Sands community! 🌟 We are thrilled to introduce our new partnership with Elevo Learning to the Sierra Sands Unified School District.
Elevo brings a fresh approach to our schools, focusing on the whole child. Their team works alongside ours to boost student engagement and make learning active, fun, and meaningful. All at no cost to parents.
Check out the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yrimjpmd1R0
With Elevo on campus, our students get to experience:
• Engaging activities that keep kids moving and thinking
• Innovative programs designed to build social skills and confidence
• Full support for our district’s commitment to holistic education
We want every child to thrive both inside and outside the classroom, and this partnership gives us incredible new tools to make that happen.
We invite our parents and community members to see what Elevo is all about. Click the link below to learn more about how this exciting program benefits our students and families.
Elevo Methodology: https://elevolearning.com/methodology-results/
#SierraSands #ElevoLearning
👏 Celebrating Career Readiness in Our CTE Pre‑Apprenticeship Program! 👔📝
This past week, students in our CTE Aerospace Pre‑Apprenticeship Program participated in mock interviews—an exciting and important step in preparing for future careers.
As part of the program’s work readiness training, students practiced professional interview skills, shared their experiences, and received valuable feedback to help them build confidence and real‑world readiness. These mock interviews are a key component of preparing students for success beyond the classroom.
This grant‑funded program is made possible through a strong partnership with the Kern County Superintendent of Schools and the South Bay Workforce Investment Board, working together to create meaningful career pathways for our students.
We are proud of our students for stepping up, dressing professionally, and putting their skills into action—and grateful to our partners for supporting opportunities that connect learning to the world of work.
📸 Photos showcase students during their mock interviews.
This past week, students in our CTE Aerospace Pre‑Apprenticeship Program participated in mock interviews—an exciting and important step in preparing for future careers.
As part of the program’s work readiness training, students practiced professional interview skills, shared their experiences, and received valuable feedback to help them build confidence and real‑world readiness. These mock interviews are a key component of preparing students for success beyond the classroom.
This grant‑funded program is made possible through a strong partnership with the Kern County Superintendent of Schools and the South Bay Workforce Investment Board, working together to create meaningful career pathways for our students.
We are proud of our students for stepping up, dressing professionally, and putting their skills into action—and grateful to our partners for supporting opportunities that connect learning to the world of work.
📸 Photos showcase students during their mock interviews.
🎶 Outstanding Performances by Our BHS Music Ensembles! 🎶
We are so proud of our talented Burroughs High School musicians and their recent achievements at CMEA (California Music Educators Association) Ratings Festivals!
On March 19, our BHS Madrigals traveled to Bakersfield High School to perform for an audience and a panel of four regional choral experts. Their dedication and artistry earned them a Unanimous Superior* rating for both performance and sight reading!
The following week, the Burroughs Symphonic Orchestra traveled to Tulare Union High School for the CMEA High School Orchestra Ratings Festival. They also received a Unanimous Superior* rating — with one judge awarding the ensemble a perfect score of 100! 🎉
Both ensembles are excited to share their award‑winning music with the Ridgecrest community at their Spring Concerts:
📅 May 13 & May 14
📍 BHS PPAC
⏰ 6:30 p.m.
We hope to see you there to celebrate these incredible students!
* Unanimous Superior is the highest rating awarded.
📸 Photos include warm‑ups, stage performances, sight reading, and moments outside the festival venues.
We are so proud of our talented Burroughs High School musicians and their recent achievements at CMEA (California Music Educators Association) Ratings Festivals!
On March 19, our BHS Madrigals traveled to Bakersfield High School to perform for an audience and a panel of four regional choral experts. Their dedication and artistry earned them a Unanimous Superior* rating for both performance and sight reading!
The following week, the Burroughs Symphonic Orchestra traveled to Tulare Union High School for the CMEA High School Orchestra Ratings Festival. They also received a Unanimous Superior* rating — with one judge awarding the ensemble a perfect score of 100! 🎉
Both ensembles are excited to share their award‑winning music with the Ridgecrest community at their Spring Concerts:
📅 May 13 & May 14
📍 BHS PPAC
⏰ 6:30 p.m.
We hope to see you there to celebrate these incredible students!
* Unanimous Superior is the highest rating awarded.
📸 Photos include warm‑ups, stage performances, sight reading, and moments outside the festival venues.
