January 30, 2026

Dear MBUSD Parents and Community,

I hope this newsletter finds you well. In today’s issue, we will highlight:

MBUSD is confronting a projected $6.8 million budget shortfall and will need to make difficult reductions in the coming months. A key piece of context is the Governor of California’s January Budget proposal, which starts (but does not finish) the state budget process that ultimately determines TK–12 funding.

Released each January, the Governor’s Budget estimates expected state revenue and proposes how funds could be allocated, including assumptions about the economy, enrollment, staffing, and cost increases. Because most school funding flows through the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF), which is driven by enrollment and “unduplicated” student counts, districts like MBUSD that receive very limited supplemental and zero concentration funds can feel statewide constraints more sharply.

For 2025–26, the state cites per-pupil funding totals that include many programs MBUSD does not receive, which results in MBUSD receiving significantly less in state revenues per pupil that many surrounding and statewide districts. Specifically, in 2025-26, MBUSD’s state revenues were at about $14,165 per pupil, compared with a statewide figure of around $25,803.

Proposals in the Governor’s January Proposal with potential local impact include a lower cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) than previously anticipated, a possible one-time discretionary block grant (with distribution still under debate), about $75,000 in restored Learning Recovery funds, and more stable support for the mandated Extended Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP) for “Tier 2” districts like MBUSD. The Governor also proposes withholding $5.6 billion tied to Proposition 98, raising longer-term uncertainty.

See this link to read a full explanation of the MBUSD budget

How to Stay Informed?

We will continue to share updates as the state budget process moves forward, including how changes at the state level affect MBUSD’s planning and decision-making. Transparency and shared understanding are essential as we navigate this work together.

To help clarify how this unfolds, here’s an overview of the annual state budget timeline:

This evolving timeline is why district budgets are not static and need to be updated and refined as state information becomes clearer.

MBUSD families and staff deeply value the exceptional programs, educators, and learning opportunities that define our schools. Many of these experiences are made possible through the strong partnership between MBUSD and the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation (MBEF), a partnership that remains a cornerstone of our shared commitment to educational excellence.

Each year, MBEF’s Annual Appeal plays a critical role in sustaining these programs. As the campaign comes to a close tomorrow, MBEF is just short of its $5.2 million fundraising goal. The more the community is able to raise through the Annual Appeal, the more educators, programs, and learning opportunities MBEF can support in the coming school year.

This year’s Appeal is especially important as school districts across California, including MBUSD, navigate ongoing fiscal challenges and increased budget uncertainty. In times like these, community-supported funding through MBEF becomes even more critical, helping the District preserve the educational experiences that families value and students rely on.

To the families who have already contributed, thank you for your generosity and continued investment in our schools. For those who have not yet had the opportunity to give, we respectfully encourage you to consider making a donation before the campaign concludes. Every gift, at any level, makes a meaningful difference.

There is still time to participate. The Annual Appeal ends Saturday, and families are encouraged to make a gift by visiting the MBEF donation page. Thank you for your continued support of MBUSD. Together, we can finish the Annual Appeal strong and continue to ensure excellence in education for all our students.

The 4th grade students at Grand View are currently engaging in a book club unit of study titled, Reading for Empathy and Advocacy. The unit is part of the Grade 4 English Language Arts curriculum, building both empathy and literacy skills through the analysis of text through rich, student-centered discussion. Students are reading novels that highlight themes of inclusion, belonging, and perseverance, including Rules, which explores life with a sibling with autism; The Way of the Warrior Kid, which resonates with students who struggle with confidence and school expectations; Fish in a Tree, addressing dyslexia and learning differences; and Beatrice Zinker, Upside Down Thinker, which highlights social belonging and a sense of self.

Through this work, students are deepening their analysis and critical thinking by referring to details and examples in the text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences (RL.4.1), determining themes and reflecting on the messages authors communicate (RL.4.2), and describing characters in depth, including their motivations, traits, and responses to challenges (RL.4.3).

Working collaboratively, students identify themes connected to these topics, engage in thoughtful group discussions, and make meaningful text-to-self connections. Students support their thinking by referring to details and examples in the text, and as they compare the experiences of characters across different novels, they build an understanding of how authors craft stories to help readers see multiple perspectives.

This learning seamlessly extends into the writing curriculum, where students are crafting literary essays by developing clear thesis statements supported by three strong reasons and relevant textual evidence. Students explain how specific parts of a text contribute to meaning, including how chapters, scenes, or key moments build themes and deepen understanding of important issues, while also expanding academic vocabulary and strengthening comprehension through close attention to the language authors use to convey emotions, tone, and character traits.

Through this integrated approach, students are strengthening reading comprehension, analytical writing skills, and social-emotional awareness, hallmarks of deep, purposeful learning in our classrooms.

A special thank you to Principal Tara Grings and the fourth grade team at Grand View including Carrie Fairbrother, Jeannette Shaw-Bueno, and Marianne Slater for contributing this story and for her ongoing dedication to supporting students at Grand View.

Trisha Gonzalez is a 7th grade English teacher and 7th grade Success teacher at Manhattan Beach Middle School, where she is now in her 16th year with MBUSD. She takes joy in the opportunity to work with students during one of the most energetic and formative stages of their lives, supporting them both academically and as developing learners.

In her role, Trisha provides English instruction while also guiding students through the MBMS Success program, helping them build organizational, social, and self-advocacy skills. She values supporting students not just in what they learn, but in how they learn and grow. In addition to teaching, Trisha currently serves as the Chair of the English Department, collaborating closely with colleagues to strengthen instruction and student support.

Trisha describes her time at MBUSD as incredibly rewarding, highlighting the strong relationships she has built with students, families, and her MBMS colleagues over the years. She remains grateful to be part of such a collaborative and supportive school community. What Trisha enjoys most about her work is watching students grow in confidence as they think critically, make connections, and engage in meaningful discussions. She also values the classroom rapport that develops over time and takes pride in creating a space where students feel safe to take risks and be themselves.

Prior to joining MBUSD, Trisha taught 7th and 8th grade English at Cesar Chavez Middle School in Lynwood and completed her student teaching at Magruder Middle School in Torrance, experiences that helped shape her instructional approach and passion for teaching adolescents.

Her journey into education began with an inspiring high school English teacher who sparked her love of reading, writing, and critical thinking. While she originally envisioned teaching high school, her student teaching experience confirmed that middle school was where she truly belonged.

Outside of the classroom, Trisha enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with family, friends, and her dog, Pippa. She is also currently pursuing an M.S. in Clinical Counseling, with the goal of continuing to support adolescents and address the growing mental health needs she has observed throughout her career.

Thank you, Trisha, for all that you have done and continue to do for our students. Your dedication and impact do not go unnoticed.

Mira Costa High School kicked off the new semester with energy and excitement at last week’s Winter Pep Rally. The celebration began with welcome music from the MCHS Band, setting the tone for a spirited event led by ASB emcees who energized each class through fun spirit competitions. Highlights included a crowd-favorite dodgeball matchup between teachers and students, as well as a special performance by the Coterie a cappella group.

The pep rally was a great way to bring the school community together, celebrate Mustang pride, and kick off the semester on a high note. A big thank you to our ASB students, ASB Director Lisa Claypoole, and Athletic Director Mike Rosenthal for organizing a memorable event that truly showcased the enthusiasm and spirit of Mira Costa.

After a five-year hiatus, the Pennekamp Scholastic Book Fair made a much-anticipated return to campus, running all week and welcoming students and families back to a beloved tradition that celebrates literacy, joy, and community. Throughout the week, students had the opportunity to explore new books, share their excitement for reading, and enjoy time together in a fun and engaging environment.

The Book Fair also featured special events, including a Winter Warm Up Party and the Snowflake Spectacular, which added to the excitement and helped create lasting memories for our students. A heartfelt thank you to the Pennekamp PTA for the tremendous amount of time, care, and coordination that went into making this experience possible. Special appreciation goes to Book Fair Chairs Lisa, Krystal, and Gina for their leadership, creativity, and dedication in bringing this wonderful event back to Pennekamp.

MBUSD has prepared a Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Mira Costa High School Field Renovation, Lighting Improvements, and Facilities Master Plan Project. Developed in conformance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and CEQA State Guidelines, the Draft EIR evaluates the potential environmental impacts associated with the proposed project.

MBUSD is serving as the Lead Agency for this process and invites responsible and trustee agencies, interested public agencies, organizations, and community members to review the Draft EIR and submit written comments.

The Draft EIR is available for public review and comment period commencing on Friday, January 30, and ending on Monday, March 16 at 5:00pm. The document may be accessed via the District’s website or through the State Clearinghouse CEQAnet Web Portal. All comments must be submitted in writing and received by the close of the review period. Commenters are should indicate a contact person for your agency or organization and send written comments to the below address:

Attn: Dawnalyn Murakawa-Leopard, Deputy Superintendent

Manhattan Beach Unified School District

325 South Peck Avenue

Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

310.318.7345

dmurakawa@mbusd.org

Hard copies are also available for in-person review at the following locations:

MBUSD appreciates community engagement and encourages interested parties to participate in the CEQA review process by providing feedback during the public comment period. 

The Manhattan Beach Coordinating Council (MBCC) welcomed the new year with a luncheon on Thursday, January 29, bringing together city staff, local elected officials, school district personnel, nonprofit partners, and community members to celebrate outstanding students from Manhattan Beach Middle School, Mira Costa High School, and American Martyrs School.

Students were recognized for their achievements and contributions, reflecting the strong partnership between MBCC and local schools. The MBMS student honored was Quinley Kagan, presented by David Bainer, who spoke highly of Quinley’s exceptional management skills and her ability to balance the many facets of her academic and extracurricular life. He shared his enthusiasm for seeing her continue to excel throughout the remainder of her academic career.

The Mira Costa student honored was Charlie McCulloch, a junior at Mira Costa High School, presented by David Halushka. Charlie was recognized for the positive impact he has on campus, particularly through his involvement in LINK Crew, where he consistently works to support, welcome, and help other students feel a strong sense of belonging.

The program also featured student speakers who shared updates from their campuses, including Valeria Garlic, MBMS student body secretary, and Mira Costa students Riley Marsh and Nurah Abokar.

In addition to student recognition, the luncheon included community updates and highlighted MBCC’s ongoing commitment to student success through its annual scholarship program. Each spring, MBCC awards scholarships to graduating seniors from Mira Costa High School, funded entirely through community sponsorships and opportunity drawings.

Thank you to the Manhattan Beach Coordinating Council for continuing to champion public education, recognize student excellence, and invest in the future of MBUSD students.

Next week, Mira Costa High School will host its first-ever Costa Course Fair on February 3 and February 5, offering students an exciting opportunity to explore course options ahead of Academic Planning sessions with their counselors. Held during two Office Hours days, the Course Fair allows students to connect directly with teachers and fellow students, ask questions, and gain valuable insight to help make informed choices for the upcoming school year.Each day of the fair will feature different subject areas:

Following the event, course one-pagers will be posted on the school website, giving students and families a helpful reference throughout the academic planning process. Students are also encouraged to check out this short video created by Mira Costa’s Link Crew leaders, which offers a preview of what to expect and tips for making the most of the experience.

Next Friday, February 6, is the final opportunity for families, staff, students, and community members to share input on Manhattan Beach Unified School District’s Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP).

The LCAP guides how the District prioritizes programs, services, and resources to best support student learning and well-being. Community feedback plays a critical role in shaping these decisions and ensuring our goals reflect the needs and values of our school community.

If you have not yet participated, we encourage you to take a few minutes to share your perspective before the window closes. Please check your inbox for your personalized survey link, as links are unique and cannot be shared. If you are unable to locate your survey email or need assistance, please contact Kate Juge at kjuge@mbusd.org.

Join our MBUSD Student Services Department for a Parent Tech Support Night on Wednesday, February 18 from 6:00–7:00 pm in the MBUSD District Office Board Room. This hands-on event is designed to support families in setting healthy boundaries around technology use. District staff and parent volunteers will be on site to walk you through how to place restrictions and parental controls on both Apple and Android devices. Please bring your child’s device(s) so you can set them up during the session with support - make sure you have those passwords with you! Even if you are planning ahead, come on out and learn about current technology settings. Please see and share the event flyer HERE. 

We are also looking for a few tech-savvy parent volunteers to assist other families during the event. If you’re interested in volunteering or have questions, please contact Kerry Riccio Aguero.

We hope to see you there for this collaborative and supportive evening!

Mira Costa ASB students continue to make a powerful difference through their ongoing partnership with the UCLA Blood & Platelet Center. Coordinated by the ASB Community Relations Team (Lila Schroeder, Lily Kasower, Sidney Weinbaum, and Hayley Kase), Costa ASB hosts blood drives three times each year - an effort that has placed the school at the top of all Southern California high schools for blood units donated for the past two years. Last year alone, the Mira Costa community donated an incredible 360 units. With just one pint of blood able to save up to three lives, these donations represent a meaningful and far-reaching impact. Each blood donation takes only an hour, yet the results can be life-saving.

From welcoming participants and helping them get settled, to assisting with bandaging, snacks, water, and recovery space, students ensured a smooth, supportive experience for all donors. 

A special thank you to Lisa Claypoole and our dedicated ASB students for their leadership, compassion, and commitment to serving others through this important effort. Acts like this truly reflect the amazing community that has been fostered on campus.

The next Superintendent’s Newsletter will be published on February 6. Have a wonderful weekend!

Dr. John Bowes, Superintendent

325 S. Peck Ave.
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
(310) 318-7345