This Thanksgiving Break, SSUSD has been able to support a select group of students with “Snacks in Packs”—bundles filled with non-perishable, easy-to-heat, or ready-to-eat meals and snacks.
We are happy to extend this support to any additional SSUSD families who could use a little extra help during the break.
📍 Pick-Up Location: SSUSD Family Resource Center, 1305 N. Norma
🗓 Dates: Thursday, November 19 and Friday, November 20
⏰ 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
First come, first served.
Please provide student names and school sites upon pick up.
Through community funding in partnership with Leadership Ridgecrest, we are grateful to be able to provide this support and wish all of our families a warm and restful Thanksgiving Break. 🧡
We are happy to extend this support to any additional SSUSD families who could use a little extra help during the break.
📍 Pick-Up Location: SSUSD Family Resource Center, 1305 N. Norma
🗓 Dates: Thursday, November 19 and Friday, November 20
⏰ 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
First come, first served.
Please provide student names and school sites upon pick up.
Through community funding in partnership with Leadership Ridgecrest, we are grateful to be able to provide this support and wish all of our families a warm and restful Thanksgiving Break. 🧡
📢 Vieweg STEM Academy Information Night
Join us on Thursday, December 3 at 5:00 PM to learn about our innovative Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math programs, enjoy a brief presentation, and get your questions answered!
✅ Location: Vieweg STEM Academy (TK–8 grades)
We look forward to seeing you there!
You are invited to attend the next Parent Info Series session, Why Cerro Coso? Are you interested for your student, for yourself, or both?
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, November 12 from 6:00-7:00 p.m. at 1325 N. Norma St.
Intent: To provide an overview of who we are, how we educate, innovate, include, and serve, and why you belong here
Description: We will share information about our 70+ degrees, certificates, and certification options, and detail the many student support services and resources available to ensure all individuals feel supported throughout their educational journey and they find the success they seek. Whether it be Financial Aid, personalized Counseling, Military & Veteran Services, our Umoja or UndocuSuccess affinity programs, ACCESS programs, Transfer or Career assistance, Basic Needs support, or Adult Education and Early College opportunities for high school students…Cerro Coso is here to improve the lives of the students and communities we serve.
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, November 12 from 6:00-7:00 p.m. at 1325 N. Norma St.
Intent: To provide an overview of who we are, how we educate, innovate, include, and serve, and why you belong here
Description: We will share information about our 70+ degrees, certificates, and certification options, and detail the many student support services and resources available to ensure all individuals feel supported throughout their educational journey and they find the success they seek. Whether it be Financial Aid, personalized Counseling, Military & Veteran Services, our Umoja or UndocuSuccess affinity programs, ACCESS programs, Transfer or Career assistance, Basic Needs support, or Adult Education and Early College opportunities for high school students…Cerro Coso is here to improve the lives of the students and communities we serve.
🎓 GET A HEAD START ON COLLEGE!
Did you know your student can start college as a high school freshman?
SSUSD High Desert School's Middle College Program offers students an incredible opportunity to earn college credit while completing their high school education!
Here's what makes this program special:
✨ Take college courses taught by college professors on a college campus.
✨ Attend college tuition-free and earn up to two years of college credit!
✨ Start as a freshman!
✨ Complete A–G high school requirements through independent study.
📣 Calling all incoming 9th graders for Fall 2027! We also have limited openings for students entering 10th and 11th grade.
📅 Family Information Meeting
November 12, 2026
6:00 PM
Mesquite Campus
Bring the whole family and learn more about this exciting opportunity!
🔗 Visit www.ssusd.org/o/highdesert for more information.
FIND YOUR FIT!
Looking for a school that matches your child's interests, talents, and learning style? Sierra Sands Unified School District offers exciting Schools of Choice opportunities for the 2027–28 school year!
📅 Schools of Choice Open Enrollment: November 1 – December 15, 2026
Explore these unique educational opportunities:
🎨 Pierce Academy of the Arts (TK-6th grade) – Inspire creativity and learning through the arts.
🚀 Vieweg STEM Academy (TK-8th grade) – Explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
💻 High Desert School (7th-12th grade) – An independent study school featuring a Middle College program.
Every student is unique. Find the school that's the right fit!
📲 Scan the QR code on the flyer or visit https://www.ssusd.org/page/schools-of-choice for more information and to apply.
🧥💙 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!