Board Member Corner: Jesse vanZee |
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While we usually use our “Friday Brights” update to highlight the many positive things happening across SRVUSD, I want to be authentic about the challenges the district is facing. Over the past several months, our Board has been working through the difficult reality of addressing a $24 million budget shortfall for the 2025-2026 school year. On January 14, the Board approved a series of budget reductions to meet county and state requirements for a balanced budget, with many of these cuts still subject to labor negotiations.
These decisions were incredibly difficult because the vast majority of these cuts directly impact our students. I worked closely with the Budget Advisory Committee and the district’s executive team to ensure that management absorbed a higher relative percentage of the cuts compared to our principals, teachers, and support staff. I also advocated striking a balance between retaining more counselors than originally outlined in our December budget proposal and keeping K-3 classroom sizes smaller. While I’m proud of these priorities, I won’t pretend that these cuts are good for our schools—they were simply necessary if we want to retain local decision-making for our district.
I also spent time focused on finding solutions to prevent the district from facing cuts like this in the future. I am actively evaluating creative, out-of-the-box ways to generate additional revenue for SRVUSD. At the same time, I am partnering with teachers and staff to advocate for long-term change to California’s public school funding model. Districts like ours are disproportionately impacted by the state’s current funding model. It’s time for Sacramento to reexamine how schools are funded so we can ensure all students have the resources they deserve.
Despite the difficulty of these decisions, I am incredibly grateful for the input and engagement of the SRVUSD community. Thank you to everyone who has shared your thoughts and ideas throughout this process. Your voices are essential as we move forward together. For those who wish to share additional feedback or ideas, please contact me at jvanzee@srvusd.net.
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#WeAreSRVUSD: Cammack Connection |
This was a challenging week for all. The Board approved a revised Budget Reduction Plan for next year. We now begin the collaborative work to adjust and adapt programs and workloads in light of staff reductions and a decreased budget. I remain committed to honest and productive negotiations with our union partners which will begin in the coming week. As I stated in my email to all families this week, the approved reductions, although necessary, are being done with a heavy heart, knowing this is not what is best for our kids. I am grateful to serve the SRVUSD staff, students, and families as we work through these challenges together.
Given the overall somber tone of the week, there were a few bright spots to share. Today, I had the privilege of presenting our Above and Beyond awards to outstanding staff members Lapondza Woolridge, paraeducator at Cal High, and Eric Johnson, Teacher, Venture/Del Amigo. I also met with the local NAACP to discuss our ongoing partnership and ways to improve the overall experience and outcomes for our students and families of color. Today, I also joined the staff at Golden View to phone bank for changes in our funding for SRVUSD by the state of California - one of the many ways we are advocating for increased state and local funding for our schools.
Wishing all our families a good long weekend as we reflect on the amazing work of Dr. Martin Luther King. |
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SRVUSD is proud to have many former students return to the district as employees. These staff members have lifelong connections with our community, and our students benefit! This week, we highlight Rebecca Shea, SDC Teacher at Iron Horse Middle School. |
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School Highlight: Deep Learning and Innovation in Action |
At Tassajara Hills, students gained a new perspective through a meaningful experience supporting the Wheelchair Foundation. Following an assembly to build an understanding of disabilities and wheelchair needs, students had the chance to navigate life in a wheelchair during PE class. This interactive experience reinforced the lessons from the assembly, helping students develop empathy, understanding, and a broader view of the challenges others face - all while raising money for a meaningful cause.
Reflecting on the experience with PE teacher Laura Richey, students described it as eye-opening - using phrases like, “It was harder than I thought,” and “I felt low and small compared to other people.” Through hearing and doing, they gained valuable insights into the lives of others and the importance of compassion - a perfect activity to take place during Inclusive Schools Week. |
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Students helping students - that was the theme as San Ramon Valley High School students visited Charlotte Wood Middle Schoolers to help them open up about their feelings and navigate the challenges of middle school. Using prompts like, “I feel disappointed when…” or “I feel safe when…,” they encouraged honest conversations and created a supportive space for sharing. Their message was simple but powerful: sometimes, just feeling heard can make all the difference. During Inclusive Schools Week, the visit was a powerful reminder of the strength in connection and support. Even Shadow, the therapy dog, agreed!
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This week’s shoutout goes to Leslie Nash, who organized the above-mentioned visit of SRVHS students to Charlotte Wood. Leslie, who doesn’t even have students at SRVHS yet, is ready to jump in and help wherever needed. Thank you to Leslie and to all our amazing parents, caregivers, and community members who volunteer in countless ways to support our students and staff. We are grateful! |
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Leslie is pictured in the back row, far right |
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Talk with a Trustee: Upcoming Opportunities |
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SRVUSD IMPORTANT INFORMATION EVENTS Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Open Mic Celebration
Monday, January 20, 2:00 - 3:30 pm
San Ramon City Hall Rotunda
This family-friendly event offers an open mic opportunity to share how the work and legacy of Dr. King has influenced the community and why it is still important in the 21st Century. The program runs from 2:00-3:30, with a reception following until 4:30 pm.
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Drive-Thru Donation Event for LA Fire Victims
Saturday, January 25, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Pine Valley Middle School
Pine Valley is hosting this drive-thru event to aid victims of the LA fires. Cash donations will be accepted (all proceeds going to the American Red Cross). Items including non-perishable food, toiletries, clothing, etc. will be accepted. See flyer for more details.
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Innovate to Elevate Art Display and Reception
January 30, 5:00 - 7:00 pm
Village Theatre Art Gallery
The Town of Danville and SRVUSD are hosting an art show featuring the work of SRVUSD student artists beginning January 30 to March 28. Join us at the opening reception on January 30th to support and celebrate the artistic expression and innovation of our students!
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Celebrate Innovation in Education Luncheon
February 12, 11:30 am
Diablo Country Club, Danville
This luncheon, sponsored by the San Ramon Valley Education Foundation, features a State of the District address by Superintendent CJ Cammack. Proceeds will benefit the SRVEF Major Gifts and Endowment Fund for long-term innovative educational programs in SRVUSD. All are welcome to attend! Register here.
- Campus Safety Town Hall for SRVUSD families
Thursday, February 13, 6:00 - 7:30 pm, SRVUSD Boardrooms
Parents, come and learn how to stay informed and do your part to keep our schools and community safe. Topics will include school safety plans, logistics, emergency communications, and mental health.
OPPORTUNITIES - American Association of University Women - Scholarship Opportunities
The Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek (DAW) branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is offering college scholarships to individuals who identify as women. Current high school students who will be at an accredited college or university in the fall of 2025, and staff who are undergrad/graduate students are eligible to apply. Applicants must currently or in the past attended high school in Danville, Alamo, or Walnut Creek, or currently reside or work in these communities.
Applications are open now and are due by March 1, 2025. To apply, see the AAUW DAW Local Scholarships webpage: https://daw-ca.aauw.net/local-scholarships/
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