Dear MBUSD Parents and Community,

I hope this message finds you well. Here’s an overview of what will be highlighted in this week’s newsletter:

MBUSD is continuing to monitor and engage in conversations at the state level regarding public school funding. As part of this effort, the District has shared a letter with state legislators outlining considerations related to base funding levels, funding adequacy and equity, and the potential impacts of proposed changes to the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF), as well as ongoing cost pressures facing school systems.

In addition, MBUSD is participating in broader, statewide conversations focused on understanding public school funding. The District has joined a collaboration of school districts and organizations, known as Raise the Base, who are working to provide information and raise awareness around funding structures and challenges impacting public education.

Interested in learning more about school funding? MBUSD is offering an opportunity to receive additional information and updates related to school funding. Complete this form to receive additional information and updates. Information submitted may also be shared with partner organizations, including MBEF, MBX, and the MB Council of PTAs, for related informational outreach.

Astrophysics students recently took part in an interactive Sunfest experience, exploring solar energy and the electromagnetic spectrum through hands-on activities. From creating sun prints and testing UV-reactive beads to analyzing sunscreen effectiveness, students connected scientific concepts to real-world applications. The lesson also included a cross-cultural component, as students researched sun mythology from around the world. Thank you to Mrs. Ford for bringing engaging, project-based learning to life!

Jack Moore, Day Custodian at Meadows Elementary, has spent his entire career in MBUSD—serving the last 38 years helping to maintain a welcoming campus for students and staff. He enjoys accomplishing goals and working with positive people, and outside of work, he especially enjoys playing bass guitar and woodworking. Thank you, Mr. Jack, for your dedication to the Meadows community!

Mira Costa High School has been named a recipient of the California Exemplary Arts Education Award, a prestigious honor awarded to just 19 schools statewide out of more than 10,000. Presented every three years, this recognition highlights excellence in arts education. Congratulations to Kate Heredia and Peter Park for their outstanding application and leadership in earning this distinction for Mira Costa!

We’re excited to share that the District, Manhattan Beach Unified Teachers Association (MBUTA), and California School Employees Association (CSEA) have reached a tentative agreement on the 2026–2027 academic calendar. Developed through a collaborative process, the calendar prioritizes student learning while preserving the holidays and breaks our community values, and is thoughtfully structured to support strong instruction throughout the year.

All six MBUSD Odyssey of the Mind teams placed at the Regional Qualifier this past weekend—earning spots at the Southern California State Tournament on March 28 in Moreno Valley. Competing among 41 teams, students demonstrated outstanding creativity and teamwork, with several first-place finishes across divisions. Congratulations to our students, coaches, and volunteers, and best of luck at State!

Five MBMS choir students have earned prestigious honor choir selections this season. Three students—Rose, Amelia, and Delilah—performed in the Regional ACDA Honor Choir in San Jose, while Leo and Julia were selected for the Southern California Honor Choir and will perform in Irvine. Congratulations to our students and to Choir Director Kate Crellin for her leadership and support!

The Manhattan Beach Coordinating Council (MBCC) hosted its March 19 luncheon, recognizing outstanding students from Robinson Elementary, Mira Costa High School, and American Martyrs School. Honorees were celebrated for their character, contributions, and positive impact on their school communities. The program also featured student speakers sharing campus updates and highlighted MBCC’s continued support of student success through its annual scholarship program for graduating Mira Costa seniors.

Join us on Friday, May 8 from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Manhattan Beach Middle School for a fun, family-friendly evening filled with food, music, art, and traditions from around the globe. This special event is a wonderful opportunity for families to come together, learn from one another, and showcase the unique cultures that make MBUSD so vibrant. We especially encourage families to sign up to host a booth and share their heritage—whether through cuisine, clothing, crafts, or performances. Don’t miss this chance to be part of an unforgettable celebration.

All five MBUSD elementary schools recently welcomed families for their annual Open Houses, celebrating student learning and growth. Classrooms were filled with impressive work, reflecting the dedication of both students and teachers. Thank you to our incredible staff and support teams for making the evening such a success, and to our families for being part of this special tradition!

MBUSD would like to share an important community notice regarding a reported “blitz card” scam. The MBX Foundation has been made aware of individuals going door-to-door in the community, identifying themselves as being affiliated with Mira Costa High School Track & Field or Boys Basketball, and attempting to sell a “blitz card.” These cards are not legitimate. Community members are advised that MBX Foundation does not authorize door-to-door sales and does not accept payments through platforms such as Venmo for fundraising efforts. Families are encouraged to exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of any fundraising requests.

MBUSD is excited to launch the KnowGo! Program for first grade students at Meadows, focusing on personal safety awareness and decision-making. Led by counselor Daniel Batistelli, students learned how to recognize safe and unsafe situations and when to seek help. The program will expand to all elementary sites this spring, with family communication and support provided by the Student Services team.

MBMS recently introduced the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program during grade-level assemblies, launching a schoolwide effort to foster a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment. Led by Student Services TOSA Jeff Lee, Principal Matthew Horvath, and MCHS students, the program centers around four key rules that empower students to prevent and respond to bullying. Families are encouraged to continue the conversation at home, with a parent webinar coming soon. A special thank you to Akbar Gbaja-Biamila for joining us as a guest speaker.

The next Superintendent’s Newsletter will be published on Monday, March 30. Let's have a wonderful week!

Dr. John Bowes, Superintendent

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