Every Day Counts! Cold and flu season is upon us, and it is important to stay healthy because we all know how important it is for students to be at school, ready to learn, because Every Day Counts!
Tips to Stay Healthy and Avoid Getting Sick
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Consider wearing a face covering while indoors or in crowded places.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Individuals with chronic health issues and/or individuals experiencing severe symptoms should be evaluated by a medical professional.
Regular student attendance is so important for students to maximize their learning. As we just completed the first Trimester on November 14, this is a time for students to continue doing their best so they can really demonstrate their progress and achievements. Report cards will be provided to students on November 22.
Here are this week’s updates and reminders.
Report cards:
The first trimester of the 2025-2026 school year ends on November 14. First trimester report cards will be issued on Friday, November 21. Report cards for elementary school students will be distributed at school. Report cards for middle school students will be delivered by mail.
Thanksgiving recess:
The 2025 Thanksgiving break is scheduled for Monday, November 24, through Friday, November 28. All EUSD schools and the district office will be closed. Friday, November 21, is a minimum day for students.
Opportunity to Serve on the EUSD Personnel Commission
The Escondido Union School District is seeking interested community members to serve on its Personnel Commission for a three-year term beginning February 2026. The Personnel Commission is a non-partisan public body that helps ensure fair and equitable employment practices for classified (non-teaching) employees in our district. Commissioners meet monthly to review and provide oversight of staff recommendations.
To be eligible, applicants must be registered voters, residents of Escondido, and supporters of the merit system principles. Appointees may not be current EUSD employees or members of any school district governing board.
Interested residents are invited to submit an application and résumé by 4:00 p.m. on November 26, 2025, to Ashley Bird at abird@eusd.org or by mail to: Escondido Union School District, 2310 Aldergrove Avenue, Escondido, CA 92029.
Click here for the Personnel Commissioner Application.
Fishing for a cause:
EUSD is a proud member of the Kiwanis Club of Escondido – Hidden Valley, which supports a number of programs in our community with a focus on making a positive impact on the lives of children. We are pleased to invite our families to attend the club’s Trout Derby fundraiser on Saturday and Sunday, November 22 and November 23, at Dixon Lake. All proceeds support programs in Escondido. The park entrance fee is $5 per vehicle. The fishing derby entry fee is $20 for adults, and $14 for children and seniors. This family-friendly event also includes free Kiddie Ponds on the pier for children 7 and younger. In addition, numerous volunteer opportunities are available at the event; to get involved, contact the club by email.
Resources for Food Assistance
We want to make sure families are aware of local resources that offer free food and support for those who may need it. Here are a few options available in our community:
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need help connecting with these resources.
Honor a Caring Heart:
The nomination window is now open for the annual Caring Hearts Awards (PDF), presented by the dedicated group of volunteers behind the Escondido Education Foundation. Directions and forms are now available in all school offices, at the front desk of the Carilyn Gilbert Education Center, 2310 Aldergrove Avenue, and online at this link: Printable Caring Hearts Nomination form (PDF). These awards recognize members of the education community who work under the radar while doing extraordinary work on behalf of students – directly supporting EUSD children in helping them find success and acceptance. These “caring hearts” do not seek recognition for themselves, and the foundation is in need of your nominations for the Caring Hearts Awards. The nominee can be any school staff member, parent volunteer, community member, or community organization. Anyone may submit a nomination. I encourage you to take a minute to think of all the individuals and organizations who go above and beyond in their support of students. Nominations are due by 4 p.m. December 15 at the district office. The awards will be presented at the annual foundation dinner on February 6, 2026. Check the foundation website for future updates.
Breakfast and Lunch Menus:
All EUSD students have access to no-cost breakfast and lunch. Families can view our new online menus. Select your school and menu to see what is being served every day.
– Luis Rankins-Ibarra, Superintendent of Schools