October 29, 2025

Dear Parents, Guardians, Staff, Students, and Community Members,

With the school year in full swing, it has been inspiring to see our classrooms, fields, and stages filled with the energy and enthusiasm of our students and staff. The Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District remains committed to fostering extraordinary achievement for all students while continuing our focused work to close the achievement gap. Every day, I see that commitment reflected in the efforts of our teachers, classified staff, administrators, and families who create the conditions for each student to thrive.

This fall, our schools are vibrant with learning and activity, from academic enrichment programs and social-emotional wellness initiatives to athletics, music performances, and family engagement events. I encourage you to visit your school’s website and follow our district channels to stay connected to upcoming opportunities and celebrations.

Recently, we shared our District’s Educational Results Partnership (ERP) outcomes, which recognized several of our schools for their outstanding academic growth and student success. These recognitions affirm the ongoing dedication of our educators and students as we continue our mission of ensuring equitable access to a high-quality education for every child. You can learn more about the ERP results and what they mean for our District here.

This month, we also had the honor of welcoming our friends from Fujinomiya, Japan, to Santa Monica High School in celebration of the 50th anniversary of our sister city partnership. This visit highlighted the power of global connections and the shared values that unite our communities: belonging, curiosity, and empowerment. Through our Japanese language and student ambassador programs, students continue to build bridges of understanding and carry forward the spirit of friendship that has connected Santa Monica and Fujinomiya for half a century.

As we move through October, please remember that Election Day is Tuesday, November 4. I encourage all eligible community members to make their voices heard. Voting is one of the most powerful ways to support the future of our students and schools.

Finally, do not forget to set your clocks back one hour on Sunday, November 2, as Daylight Saving Time ends.

Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting our students. Together, we are creating welcoming, inclusive, and high-achieving schools across SMMUSD.

Sincerely,

Dr. Antonio Shelton
Superintendent

You can read prior Superintendent Messages here.