What’s Inside –
• Superintendent’s Message
• District / School Information
• Budget / Facilities Update
• NextGen Scholars Program
• Schools to Watch
• Parent Education / Participation Program
• Preparing Our Adult Learners
• SLCUSD’s Family Guides
• Wellness Centers
• Digital Media Program
Dear San Luis Coastal Community,
I am thrilled to present our second annual San Luis Coastal Unified School District Annual Report to the Community. This report serves as a testament to the remarkable journey of growth and achievement we’ve experienced throughout the 2023-2024 school year.
Reflecting on this past year, we witnessed the realization of a promise made to our community back in 2014 when they overwhelmingly supported the D-14 School Facilities Bond Measure. The past decade has been marked by transformative enhancements in our comprehensive high schools. These improvements, both visible and behind the scenes, have reshaped the educational landscape. From cutting-edge classrooms and Career Technical Education facilities to essential upgrades in HVAC systems and safety measures, our commitment to excellence is evident in every corner of our campuses.
As we commemorated the successful conclusion of Measure D with the Board of Trustees at the plaque dedication ceremony, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and anticipation for what lies ahead. The impact of Measure D will be felt for generations to come, setting the stage for continued innovation and growth.
Looking forward, we are poised to embark on another transformative journey with the implementation of Bond Measure C-22. Over the next decade, this funding will breathe new life into our elementary and middle schools, as well as Pacific Beach High School. The vision for our district is one of modernization, accessibility, and inclusivity, ensuring that every student has the tools and resources they need to thrive.
San Luis Coastal Unified School District is more than just a collection of buildings; it is a vibrant community dedicated to nurturing the potential of every child. I invite you to explore this Annual Report and discover the incredible schools, programs, and services that define our district. Together, we are shaping the future of education and empowering our students to reach new heights.
Sincerely,
Eric Prater, Ed.D., Superintendent
San Luis Coastal Unified School District is recognized as one of the finest districts in California, thanks to the efforts of our Board, students, staff, and community. We are proud of the District’s accomplishments, and we look forward to sharing them with you. We welcome your comments directly or invite you to join us at one of our open meetings. Learn more about the Board of Trustees here: https://www.slcusd.org/about/board-of-trustees
Trustee Area 5
Ellen Sheffer, President esheffer@slcusd.org
San Luis Coastal USD prepares each student for a life of purpose. Our students become courageous and creative thinkers. They are college and career ready, skillful collaborators, and productive contributors to a diverse and rapidly evolving world.
San Luis Coastal Unified School District educates students through rigorous, relevant, and engaging experiences provided by caring, connected staff with support of the entire community.
The District identified the following six core principles to illustrate their values and commitment to students, staff, families, and the community as a whole. The School Board and District staff will use these principles as a guide to decision-making for the District’s future.
Trustee Area 1
Marilyn Rodger, Clerk mrodger@slcusd.org
Trustee Area 2
Robert Banfield robertbanfield@slcusd.org
Trustee Area 3
Chris Ungar cungar@slcusd.org
Trustee Area 4
Mark Buchman mbuchman@slcusd.org
Trustee Area 6
Eve Hinton edoblerdrew@slcusd.org
Trustee Area 7
Brian Clausen bclausen@slcusd.org
All staff focus on success for all students. There are many pathways and opportunities for students to learn, achieve, and celebrate their intellectual, creative, personal, and future success.
Expectations for students, parents, and staff are clearly defined, understood, and shared. Students, parents, and staff are empowered, supported, and provided training and professional development opportunities to meet expectations. SLCUSD creates learning environments that empower students to take ownership over their learning in order for them to find purpose, meaning, and joy in their education and to excel beyond high school.
Communication and interactions among and between students, staff, and parents is defined by mutual respect, trust, empathy, and support. SLCUSD strives to create a safe space for students to learn about themselves, other people, and the world around them.
The organization works collaboratively and creatively to ensure student success in a supportive environment. Decisions are made with stakeholder input and participation. Critical thinking, collegial dialogue and civil discourse around challenging problems are expected. Successes are recognized and celebrated.
Schools and all district work sites are safe and secure environments for students, parents, and staff. SLCUSD focuses on the social-emotional needs of our students, values students’ voices, and creates nurturing and inclusive school communities. Students, staff and families are compassionate school community members.
Staff, students, and parents collaboratively evaluate progress using multiple, reliable measures, and make changes when necessary.
Baywood
Elementary (E: 337)
1330 9th St.,
San Luis Obispo, CA 93402
Phone: 805.534.2856
https://ba.slcusd.org/
Dual Language Immersion Program Offered
Bishop’s Peak
Elementary (E: 368)
451 Jaycee, Dr., San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Phone: 805.596.4030
https://bp.slcusd.org/
C.L. Smith
Elementary (E: 484)
1375 Balboa St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Phone: 805.596.4094
https://sm.slcusd.org/
Del Mar
Elementary (E: 265)
501 Sequoia St., Morro Bay, CA 93442
Phone: 805.771.1858
https://dm.slcusd.org/
Hawthorne
Elementary (E: 415) 2125 Story St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: 805.596.4070
https://ha.slcusd.org/
Los Ranchos
Elementary (E: 502)
5785 Los Ranchos Rd., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: 805.596.4075
https://lr.slcusd.org/
Monarch Grove
Elementary (E: 336)
348 Los Osos Valley Rd., Los Osos, CA 93402
Phone: 805.534.2844
https://mg.slcusd.org/
San Luis Coastal Unified School District represents the communities of Avila, Edna Valley, Los Osos, Morro Bay, North Pismo Beach, and San Luis Obispo and currently has an enrollment of approximately 7,500 students. Small neighborhood schools are a hallmark of the District where students are educated from TK through twelfth grade, and a world-class adult school program offers unique, life-improving courses to thousands of community members.
Pacheco
Elementary (E: 485)
261 Cuesta Dr., San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Phone: 805.596.4081
https://pa.slcusd.org/
Dual Language Immersion Program Offered
Sinsheimer
Elementary (E: 370)
2755 Augusta St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: 805.596.4088
https://si.slcusd.org/
Teach Elementary (E: 168)
145 Grand Ave., San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Phone: 805.596.4100
https://te.slcusd.org/
Laguna Middle School (E: 845)
11050 Los Osos Valley Rd., San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Phone: 805.596.4055
https://lams.slcusd.org/
Los Osos Middle School (E: 486)
1555 El Moro Ave., Los Osos, CA 93402
Phone: 805.534.2835
https://loms.slcusd.org/
Morro Bay
High School (E: 773)
235 Atascadero Rd., Morro Bay, CA 93442
Phone: 805.771.1845
https://mbhs.slcusd.org/
Pacific Beach
High School (E: 67) 11950 Los Osos Valley Rd., San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Phone: 805.596.4023
https://pbhs.slcusd.org/
San Luis Obispo
High School (E: 1,651)
1499 San Luis Dr., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: 805.596.4040
https://slohs.slcusd.org/
The Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) is how California funds public schools, with a focus on supplemental funding for high-needs students. The LCFF provides a base funding level connected to each district’s average daily attendance (ADA) and additional funding for low-income students, foster youth and English learners. In SLCUSD, we are fortunate to have property taxes that exceed the amount of money we would receive from the LCFF state funding. The state allows districts to keep excess property tax funds, making us a “Community Funded” district. This excess property amount has dropped dramatically over the past 5 years due to increased state funding; current projections have us $7.7 million in revenues over what we would receive from the LCFF.
Property taxes and the LCFF account for most of the District’s revenue, making up about 75% of the Districts’ general fund revenue. Another 17% came from state and federal aid for specific programs. This included state and federal onetime COVID Pandemic Relief funds. As shown in the chart (below right), over 80% of the District’s budget is spent on people (employee salaries and benefits).
The Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) is a planning tool used to set goals, plan actions, and leverage resources to improve student outcomes. The LCAP addresses the needs of all students, including specific student groups, and all districts must specifically address English learners, foster youth, and students who are socio-economically disadvantaged. In addition, the LCAP must address the state of California’s eight priority areas, and each school district’s spending plan must align to these priorities. Annually, we invite our community, staff and students to participate in our LCAP planning.
To learn more go to: https://www.slcusd.org/about/lcap
The district has begun designing and planning for Measure C, a $349 million property tax bond measure passed by voters in November 2022. Following a very successful Measure D bond program that completely modernized the two comprehensive high schools, Measure C is focused on elementary and middle schools, as well as our continuation high school. Districts must rely on the local community to fund these projects through bond measures because of how public schools are funded in California. Thanks to the continued generosity of our community, SLCUSD will be able to bring all of our facilities into the 21st Century.
“Our community has entrusted us to spend school bond funds wisely, efficiently, and as promised on much-needed facilities improvements,” said Superintendent Dr. Eric Prater. “Together with our Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee, we will continue to demonstrate that this trust is well placed.”
The initial focus of Measure C at our elementary schools is our growing transitional kindergarten programs. Starting next year, all 4-year-olds will be eligible to attend our schools. This has created a need for larger classrooms with restroom facilities, and modernizing our current kindergarten classrooms. Updating our heating, ventilation, and air conditioning at sites along with new security fencing along school perimeters are also initial priorities at all of our schools.
We will continue to update our Measure C website as plans are approved by the Department of State Architecture and construction starts. Please visit our website to learn more about how school facilities are being transformed throughout our District to benefit students, staff and community. If you have not seen the new facilities at Morro Bay High School and San Luis Obispo High School, you can also visit our Measure D website.
Measure C: https://www.slcusd.org/about/measure-c
Measure D: https://measured.slcusd.org/
SLCUSD recently celebrated the formal completion of the Measure D School Facilities Bond, marking a significant milestone in the history of our District. Staff, students, families, and community members gathered at both San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay High Schools in April to honor and celebrate the successful completion of Measure D. This bond measure, passed with the overwhelming support of our local voters in 2014, has been the cornerstone of our efforts to modernize and rebuild Morro Bay and San Luis Obispo High Schools, providing our students with cutting-edge 21st-century learning facilities.
“Passing this bond measure demonstrates our community’s hope and belief in the necessity of high-quality public education and how that reflects on our community and the people who live here,” said Ellen Sheffer, SLCUSD Board of Education President. “This entire process has truly been a team effort and we recognize the importance of the collaboration between the community and our schools.”
Images from the Plaque Dedication Ceremonies at Morro Bay and San Luis Obispo High Schools, commemorating the completion of the Measure D School Facilities Bond Program.
Locally grown food and a creative menu are just the beginning of what sets SLCUSD’s Food Services program apart. The program places an equal emphasis on professional development for staff, as well as a state-of-the-art kitchen infrastructure. This dual focus ensures that students not only receive healthy and delicious meals but also benefit from the care and expertise of highly trained professionals and quality tools.
Understanding that quality meals are foundational to student success, SLCUSD has committed to an ongoing professional development program for its Food Services staff. From chefs to servers, each team member is seen as a crucial contributor to the well-being of the students they serve.
In August, 2023, the District took a Food Services team to the Culinary Institute of America in Napa for a two-day, hands-on training program. “Most people wouldn’t think that school district staff could attend such a prestigious training program, but we did and were able to bring everything we learned back to the District to benefit our students,” said Erin Primer, SLCUSD’s Director of Food and Nutrition Services.
“It was a great investment in our people –as a result they have all continued to grow tremendously in their skills.”
In addition, the District has invested heavily in its kitchen and meal preparation infrastructure. The kitchens are outfitted with advanced equipment that enhances the ability to cook from scratch, reduce waste, and efficiently serve a large student population (the District serves approximately 8,500 meals per day across breakfast, lunch, and afternoon meal support).
This combination of skilled staff and modern facilities allows SLCUSD to offer a menu that is both diverse and appealing, catering to a variety of tastes and nutritional requirements. The Food Services Program takes pride in sourcing locally when possible, supporting community agriculture and providing students with the freshest ingredients.
“I am excited that we are doing exceptional things for kids – and the quality of our food and programs is way beyond what you normally see in schools,” said Primer.
The Food Services Program is about more than just feeding students; it’s about nurturing a healthier, smarter, and more sustainable future. With a passionate team and top-notch facilities, SLCUSD is setting the table for success, one meal at a time.
For more information or to see each school’s daily menu, go to https://www.slcusd.org/departments/food-services
In August 2023, the District took a Food Services team to the Culinary Institute of America in Napa for a two-day, hands-on training program.
Paying $100 to take an SAT preparation course or pay for a college application fee may not sound like a huge barrier to gaining access into a college or university. For some, however, it is exactly that. The San Luis Coastal Education Foundation (SLCEF) is doing something about it – through its NextGen Scholars initiative. This unique program offers a comprehensive suite of support services to high-potential students in the San Luis Coastal Unified School District who may not otherwise have the means to access some of the opportunities that could help prepare them for college and beyond.
At the heart of the NextGen Scholars Program is the belief that every student, regardless of socioeconomic status, deserves the chance to reach their full academic and leadership potential. The program identifies promising students early on (7th and 8th grade) and provides them with the tools, resources, and guidance necessary to address some of the barriers that stand in their way during their academic journey. Students in the program receive up to $1,000 in scholarships to cover costs for things like SAT prep courses and college applications, while also gaining access to a family liaison who connects with each family to help understand the support each student needs in order to reach their goal.
“NextGen Scholars is an aspirational program – I think of it as a ‘talent-based’ program,” said Christine Robertson, Executive Director for the San Luis Coastal Education Foundation. “We try to be thoughtful and restore dignity through this process, understanding that, while we know the primary need might be financial, we also try to erase any of the stigmas associated with the support we provide.”
According to Robertson, the Foundation, in partnership with the school district, focuses on students in middle school so as to incentivize students with the idea that hard work pays off. “We essentially are pre-pledging to students (and appealing to their families) that we are here to help them along their journey – so when the time comes for
...every student, regardless of socioeconomic status, deserves the chance to reach their full academic and leadership potential.
SAT preparation or completing their college applications, we are there for them to meet them at their need.”
There are currently 44 middle school students in the program, each of whom works with their family liaison and/ or school counselor to help understand how the NextGen program can be as supportive and efficient as possible to help them reach their goal of higher education.
The program offers a blend of rigorous academic support, mentorship opportunities, and exposure to real-world experiences that are sometimes beyond the reach of many students. Participants have access to meaningful experiences like field trips to college campuses and local business partners that provide a glimpse into future potential career paths.
SLCEF’s commitment to these scholars is a long-term investment, following students from middle school through high school graduation and beyond. With robust support systems and a community rallying behind them, NextGen Scholars are positioned to become the trailblazers of tomorrow, driving innovation and progress within the San Luis Coastal community and beyond.
The NextGen Scholars Program is more than an educational initiative; it is a commitment to equity, a nod to the power of opportunity, and a testament to the transformative impact of nurturing young minds. As this program grows, so too does the promise of a brighter, more inclusive future for our community. Our goal is to continue to discover how we can best help launch these students into a bright future, and with the understanding that they are stakeholders in what this community has to offer.
In a remarkable affirmation of educational excellence, the San Luis Coastal Unified School District celebrated a prestigious accolade as both Laguna Middle School and Los Osos Middle School were awarded the “Schools to Watch” designation. This national recognition is reserved for middle schools that meet rigorous criteria in academic excellence, developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational structures.
The “Schools to Watch” program, led by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform, identifies schools across the country that serve as models of effective school practices.
Los Osos Middle School and Laguna Middle School have demonstrated a consistent commitment to providing high-quality education that is both challenging and inclusive. This designation serves as a testament to the schools’ dedication to fostering nurturing environments where students can thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.
These two middle schools have set themselves apart with innovative teaching methods, outstanding leadership, and active community involvement. They have shown a commitment to continuous improvement through data-driven strategies that cater to the diverse learning needs of their students. This holistic approach ensures that every student has access to a balanced and comprehensive educa-
tion, preparing them for high school and beyond.
The “Schools to Watch” designation also highlights the district’s focus on creating equitable learning opportunities for all students. Los Osos and Laguna Middle Schools have implemented programs and policies that close achievement gaps and promote a culture of inclusivity. Their efforts ensure that every student, regardless of background, is given the tools to succeed.
As SLCUSD reflects on this national recognition, it is clear that the efforts of the students, faculty, staff, and parents have cultivated an environment where excellence in middle school education is not just an aspiration, but a reality. The “Schools to Watch” designation is not merely an honor; it is a challenge to maintain and exceed the high standards that Los Osos and Laguna Middle Schools have set, inspir-
ing other schools within the district and across the nation to follow in their footsteps.
The San Luis Coastal community is filled with pride as these two institutions shine on the national stage, setting a benchmark for educational success and innovation. The future looks bright for SLCUSD’s middle schools, poised to continue their journey as exemplars in the educational community.
San Luis Coastal USD proudly launched its new Parent Education Series in February 2024. Through the month of March, the District held the following four sessions for parents and caregivers in our schools:
• Session 1: Social Media and Its Impact on Youth
• Session 2: Drugs, Sexting, and Human Trafficking
• Session 3: Mental Health, Counseling, Student Privacy Rights
• Session 4: Windows and Mirrors in San Luis Coastal
Over 200 people registered for the sessions, with approximately 80 attendees. The Series is part of a broader focus to provide opportunities for families to be better engaged in our schools. These opportunities include comprehensive college nights at the high school level, four/six-year plan meetings, Literacy and STEAM Nights at the middle and elementary schools, and the long-standing Parent Participation Program that engages young parents at high levels in learning parenting skills including positive discipline, encouraging independence, emerging literacy, nurturing gratitude, and positive sleep and mealtime routines. For more information, visit our District website and YouTube channel.
SLCUSD’s commitment to educating students doesn’t stop at 12th grade. With a broad spectrum of programs, the district is dedicated to providing educational resources that cater to diverse community needs, including High School Diploma attainment, English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, Guided Pathways for career education, and transformative Jail Education programs.
The High School Diploma program stands as a cornerstone of the district’s Adult Education offerings. Tailored for adults who aspire to complete their secondary education, this program offers a flexible schedule and personalized curriculum that accommodates the unique lifestyles and learning paces of adult learners. Through this initiative, SLCUSD reopens the doors to education, empowering adults to achieve a milestone that is pivotal for career advancement and personal growth.
“We have an incredible diversity of adult learners, from UPS drivers to people in the medical field who, for whatever reason, have not completed their diploma,” said Leslie O’Connor, Director of Secondary Education.
“Our instructors meet the students where they are, in order to get them to where they need to be for the next step in their journey. This could be in their path toward the world or work, higher education, or that next step toward their passion – whatever that is.”
Complementing the diploma program is the district’s comprehensive
Our instructors meet the students where they are, in order to get them to where they need to be for the next step in their journey.
ESL curriculum. It includes a unique partnership with Cuesta College, and equips non-native speakers with the linguistic tools necessary for effective communication, opening up new personal and professional avenues.
SLCUSD also introduces adults to Guided Pathways, a streamlined set of courses that pave the way to career readiness. This initiative helps individuals carve out clear vocational paths, providing guidance and education in fields that are in high demand. Whether it’s upskilling for a current job or preparing for a new vocation, Guided Pathways lays out a road map to success.
Lastly, the district’s Jail Education program is a testament to its commitment to inclusive education. Recognizing the transformative power of learning, SLCUSD extends its educational resources to the incarcerated, offering courses that nurture hope and encourage rehabilitation. This program not only educates but also serves as a catalyst for positive change, supporting re-entry into society.
Together, these programs underscore SLCUSD’s belief in the transformative power of education at all stages of life, fostering a culture of continuous learning and community support.
San Luis Coastal Adult School (E: 1,112)
1500 Lizzie Street H2
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: 805.549.1222
https://ae.slcusd.org/adult-education
Our mission is to meet the diverse educational needs of our community by empowering lifelong learners to reach their professional, personal, and family goals.
We offer classes from the following programs online:
• High School Diploma/Equivalency
• High School Equivalency for Spanish Speakers
• Lifelong Fitness
• Parent Education
San Luis Coastal recognizes that the foundation of a child’s education is laid long before they start school. With this in mind, SLCUSD’s Parent Participation Program offers a vital resource for new parents to develop their parenting skills, fostering a nurturing environment for the youngest members of the community.
The program, which is more than 50 years old, is specifically tailored to guide new parents through the early stages (0-4) of child-rearing. Through a series of workshops and collaborative classes, the program equips parents with practical tools and evidence-based strategies to support their child’s development from the very beginning.
Parent Participation operates through the District’s Adult Education Program and, classes fill up fast! “We cap our classes at 16-18 participants, and they are always full,” said Leslie O’Connor,
The Parent Participation Program is specifically tailored to guide new parents through the early stages (0-4) of child-rearing.
Director of Secondary Education. “We employ about 10 instructors, all of whom are expert, credentialed teachers in the field of child development.”
The Parent Participation Program also recognizes the dual role of parents as both caregivers and teachers. As such, it emphasizes the importance
of creating a stimulating home environment that promotes learning through play, reading, and everyday interactions. By doing so, parents are empowered to be their child’s first and most influential educators.
“We hit a winning recipe from the very beginning,” said Denise Indvik, Program Coordinator. “Through this program, families have their first introduction to our school district, and it sets them up for success long before their children even step foot into our classrooms.”
SLCUSD’s commitment to early childhood development reflects a broader understanding that a child’s success is greatly influenced by their upbringing. The Parent Participation Program is not just an educational venture; it’s an investment in the future, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive from the very start.
Family engagement is not just encouraged in SLCUSD – it is actively facilitated in many ways, including the innovative use of their “Grade Level Family Guides for Learning.” These guides are carefully crafted tools designed to provide families with a clear understanding of the academic expectations for their children at each grade level, thus empowering parents to play an active role in their child’s educational journey.
Understanding that a child’s first and most enduring teachers are their family members, SLCUSD has developed the Family Guides as a roadmap for parents and guardians. The guides demystify the curriculum, highlighting state standards and key learning objectives students are expected to know and be able to do. This allows families to align their support at home with the instructional goals set by their children’s teachers.
The process to create the guides involved pulling together a team of teachers at all grade levels who were
extremely familiar with the state standards and were willing to dig a little deeper. They were asked, “what are some of the things you recommend to parents to help them support their children?” Answers included not only ways to talk about their learning, but also structured activities that help enhance students’ learning beyond the classroom.
The Family Guides include practical tips for parents to facilitate learning, suggest activities to reinforce skills, and offer strategies to encourage academic and personal growth. The resources reinforce the district’s recognition that informed and involved families are integral to student achievement.
The guides also serve as a bridge, strengthening the vital partnership between home and school. By providing a common language and clear expectations, they facilitate meaningful conversations during parent-teacher conferences, PTA meetings, and beyond. This collaborative approach ensures that every child in the SLCUSD
has the robust support system they need to thrive.
The Family Guides have tremendous power in the community. They help families who are new to the district and find it really helpful to know and understand what is expected of their children.
For more information, visit https://www.slcusd.org/academics/ grade-level-family-guides-for-learning
San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay High Schools recently introduced SLCUSD’s latest effort aimed at prioritizing the mental and emotional well-being of their students: Wellness Centers. These centers, situated within the school campuses, serve as safe spaces where students can access a variety of mental health resources.
The centers, which opened in early March, allow students to access social-emotional support while on campus. “We know kids need help while they are in school, and we are trying to destigmatize the idea that support only happens outside of school,” said Angela Ryals, Student Support Services Program Coordinator for SLCUSD. According to Ryals, between 75 and 100 students already accessed services in the first month. “Meeting this commitment has never been more important, and we are already seeing a good number of our students choosing to take advantage of this opportunity for support.”
Prior to opening the physical spaces, the District received State grant funding to hire a full-time social- emotional learning counselor at both high schools. The counselors are also licensed social workers and have been working directly with students since the Fall.
Once the counselors were in place, the District then focused on opening the wellness centers, which were made possible thanks to a $30,000 grant from SLO County Behavioral Health. San Luis Obispo High School converted the old Band room into its Wellness Center, while Morro Bay used existing classroom space. The introduction of Wellness Centers comes at a time when concerns about mental health challenges among adolescents are on the rise. Students can be referred by various staff members and parents/caregivers to access support. They can also access the centers at drop-in times before school and during lunch. The centers are part of a comprehensive plan to address student wellness and represent a significant step forward in ensuring that all students have access to the support they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
In today’s digital age, the demand for skilled professionals in digital media continues to soar. Recognizing this trend, San Luis Obispo High School has taken proactive steps to prepare its students for success in this dynamic field through its innovative Digital Media program. Serving as one of 17 comprehensive college and career pathways, the program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to thrive in the fast-paced world of digital media.
“Our message to our students in this pathway has always been ‘you bring the idea, and we will help you make it real’,” said Zach Roper, Digital Media Teacher and Career Technical Education Department Chair at San Luis Obispo High School. “They have a goal, and we give them the software and skills to make it happen.”
Approximately 400 students are enrolled in one or more of the Digital Media pathway classes each year, with about 120 freshmen testing the waters by taking an introductory class. From there, students have the choice to officially enter the pathway and continue their journey through intermediate and advanced coursework in Graphic Design and/or Film/Video Production. Using programs like Adobe Creative Cloud, students have access to high level, industry standard programs and can even dabble in video game design and 3-D animation.
employee recruitment efforts.
“One of our recent graduates recently starred (acted) in a movie with Christopher Lloyd,” said Roper. “Another is currently attending Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and is also working as graphic designer for the campus.”
The program recently held its biggest event this year, partnering with the SLO International Film Festival in late April. The Film Festival was held at all the public theaters in downtown San Luis Obispo, and featured hand painted and digitally printed skateboards as part of the 30th anniversary of the 2001 documentary, “Dogtown and Z-Boys.” In addition, students in Advanced Graphics classes designed and printed t-shirts for the event.
For more information about Career Technical Education in SLCUSD, visit: https://www.slcusd.org/academics/cte.
District Office: 1500 Lizzie Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Phone: (805) 549-1200
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