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Lynwood Dual Immersion School

Community Cornerstone from Supt. Dr. Tracy Smith - October 15, 2026

Posted Date: 10/15/26 (01:25 PM)
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Community Cornerstone

from Superintendent Dr. Tracy Smith

October 15, 2026
Dear NUSD Community,

The beautiful fall days are upon us. This time of year also brings so much excitement around the district from festivals to homecoming games to parades to performances to field trips. These types of activities bring life and connection to school communities like nothing else. We appreciate everyone’s involvement, dedication and planning that goes into making these events possible. We know our students are benefitting from the efforts in so many ways.

See below for Board Meeting updates and our first Modeling the Way award winners. 

Respectfully,

Dr. Tracy Smith
Superintendent, Novato Unified School District
A cozy autumn illustration featuring stacked pumpkins, a warm drink, a rolled plaid blanket, and fall leaves against a light checkered background.

Teaching and Learning Update

Hear about how the District Teaching and Learning goals and plans for continuous improvement. Click here to listen

Hamilton 6-8th Grade Program Transition to San Jose

Trustees heard a report of the Voluntary Equity Impact Analysis that outlines the considerations that need to be a part of a program transition of the 6th-8th grade program at Hamilton over to San Jose starting in 2027-28 school year. 
In addition, Trustees approved a resolution directing staff to implement the 6th-8th grade program transition using the recommendations in the Equity Impact Analysis Report. Click here to listen

Budget Update: Restricted Funds

Hear a budget informational piece regarding restricted funding. These budget updates are being shared to help staff and public understand various parts of school financing. Click here to listen

Board Discussion: Budget Reductions Process

With great pressure to maintain fiscal solvency in NUSD, the Board of Trustees and district staff are facing $6.5 million in reductions to programs and services. This discussion outlines the challenges that lie ahead and begins to explore how decisions might be made. Click here to listen

Congratulations to Our October 2026 Modeling the Way Recipients!

Here are our outstanding October 2026 Modeling the Way recipients! These individuals, whether classified staff, certificated staff, or administrators, exemplify leadership, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. 

Julio Amezquita

Julio is a District wide Craftsworker. 👏👏👏

"Julio, you are the epitome of what an NUSD employee should look like and NUSD is so lucky to have you."

Daniel Chamoff

Daniel is a RSP Teacher at San Marin High School. 👏👏👏

"Beyond your organization and preparation, you bring a warm, welcoming, and positive “can-do” attitude to every interaction. You create an environment where others feel comfortable, supported, and valued."

Marie Kennedy

Marie is a Yard Supervisor at Olive Elementary School. 👏👏👏

"Marie you are a force of nature and we are so lucky to have you be a part of our Olive community. We love and appreciate you and your "can do spirit" more than you know!"

Livia Petronio

Livia is an Occupational Therapist serving Lu Sutton Elementary, San Jose Middle School, and Hamilton. 👏👏👏

"You work consistently alongside educators, parents, and support staff to ensure seamless service delivery. We are grateful for your commitment, expertise, and ongoing dedication to our school community."

Modeling the Way Reminder

“Modeling the Way” is an NUSD employee recognition program, and anyone can nominate an employee. Do you know someone who is going above and beyond to help make NUSD amazing? Please tell us about them! Nominate our exemplary staff members for our Modeling the Way program by filling out the form here. 

Stellar employees will be honored monthly from October to May. Thank you for helping to recognize staff members for their acts of kindness and outstanding professionalism!