Dear MBUSD Parents and Community,

At this week’s Board meeting, which can be viewed here, the Board recognized Mira Costa’s Black Scholars Union for leading Black History Month activities celebrating culture and student voice. Student Board Members shared campus updates, and we highlighted student achievements, including Model United Nations awards and recognition of the Mira Costa Band. Families were also reminded that enrollment for 2026–27 is open, with upcoming events for incoming families. The Board approved the Superintendent Search Leadership Profile Report, which reflects extensive community input and will guide the selection of the District’s next superintendent.

The Board also approved required preliminary staffing resolutions as part of the budget process; these are procedural notices and not final determinations. The Board received the LCAP midyear update and parcel tax survey results, which showed strong support for MBUSD but limited support for a new tax measure at this time. Public comment largely focused on budget and staffing impacts.

With that update, here’s an overview of what will be highlighted in this week’s newsletter:

Fourth grade students at Pennekamp are deepening their understanding of topography and fossils through hands-on projects, including creating sedimentary rock models, designing maps, and examining real fossils. These engaging experiences are helping students think like scientists while bringing Earth’s history to life.

Mira Costa High School counselor and Head Counselor Keshia Simmons brings 13 years of counseling experience to supporting students’ academic, career, and social-emotional growth. Inspired by her grandfather, who was also a school counselor, she is passionate about helping students feel supported, confident, and prepared for their future.

Thank you, Keshia, for the dedication and care you bring to MBUSD!

This week MBUSD is celebrating SEL Week, “Skills for Community, Skills for Career,” with activities that promote empathy, belonging, and positive relationships.

The week highlights the District’s commitment to supporting students’ social-emotional growth and Culture of Care.

THIS IS COSTA will be held on March 11 at 6:00 p.m. and is open to incoming 9th-grade families interested in learning more about academics, student life, and opportunities at Mira Costa High School. Families are encouraged to RSVP in advance if they plan to attend.

As CAASPP approaches, we encourage students to focus on skill, will, and strategy. Our students have strong academic skills; pairing that with full effort and smart test-taking strategies helps scores accurately reflect their learning. Like the SAT and GRE, CAASPP is computer adaptive, so early questions matter. A good night’s sleep, a healthy breakfast, and careful pacing go a long way toward success.

The Mira Costa Marching Band & Color Guard were recognized by Los Angeles Chargers Head Coach and Mira Costa parent Jim Harbaugh at the Manhattan Beach Little League Parade, where he praised their dedication and work ethic. We congratulate these students for representing Costa with pride and excellence.

Meadows parent and artist Bob Black recently created a series of painted panels inspired by classic children’s books, now displayed on campus. His artwork brings creativity and inspiration to the Meadows school community, enriching the learning environment for students and staff alike.

The Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk raised $280,000 for the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation, with a record 2,976 MBEF participants—400 more than last year.

Thank you to our families, PTAs, and community members whose incredible support continues to make a lasting impact on our schools.

Earlier this month, Mira Costa’s Model United Nations team earned the prestigious “Best Large Delegation” award at the Harvard Model United Nations Conference in Boston. Eighteen students received individual honors, including six first-place finishes, showcasing the exceptional talent and leadership of our students on an international stage.

REMINDER! The Mira Costa Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame Committee is seeking nominations to honor outstanding Costa graduates. The deadline to nominate is March 15, 2026.

The next Superintendent’s Newsletter will be published on Monday, March 9. Let's have a wonderful week!

Dr. John Bowes, Superintendent

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