Monterey County Office of Education

Thank you to all the amazing, passionate and dedicated individuals who keep our young people safe and engaged during out-of-school time! During this week of #LightsOnAfterschool, we’ve celebrated true collaboration and witnessed pure joy on the young faces of those we serve. From urban to frontier, Region 5 Expanded Learning Programs definitely Lead with Love! #MountPleasantElementarySchoolDistrict #EmpowerInspireUnite #SalinasCityElementarySchoolDistrict #SanBenitoCountyOfficeofEducation #SantaCruzCountyOfficeofEducation Monterey County Office of Education Santa Clara County Office of Education Michael Funk

Join MCOE on November 2 from 9 AM to 3 PM for the 6th Annual ALL IN for Equity Conference, featuring dynamic keynote speakers who are shaping inclusive discussions in schools and communities. Registration check-in, breakfast, and networking will begin at 8:30 AM. Register here: https://lnkd.in/g3wE3t-i This energizing event will foster collaboration and action building inclusive learning communities to support all students. The day will amplify student voices, share community spotlight practices, and spark innovation and inspiration with dynamic featured speakers. Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and empowered! ✔ Keynote speakers ✔ Workshops and breakout sessions ✔ Continental breakfast/ lunch provided ✔ *The cost to attend is $100. *Some sponsored tickets may be available for Monterey County educators.

Join the MCOE Team! MCOE is seeking qualified applicants for a variety of open positions, including Paraeducators! With competitive pay, excellent benefits, and a strong retirement plan, MCOE offers a fantastic opportunity to kickstart your career in education while making a difference in Monterey County! If this sounds like the right fit for you or someone you know, apply today at edjoin.org/montereycoe. #MCOEHiring #JoinOurTeam #EducationCareers #MakeADifference

Monterey County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deneen Guss, along with Deputy Superintendent Dr. Ralph Porras and Monterey County Board Members Annette Yee Steck and Mary Claypool, recently visited several schools within the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District (MPUSD). The visit, part of a series of district site visits scheduled throughout the year, was an opportunity to observe the innovative teaching methods and student engagement taking place in classrooms across the district. MPUSD Superintendent Dr. PK Diffenbaugh led the tour, which included stops at Monte Vista TK-8, Monterey High School, Marshall Elementary, and Crumpton Elementary. Each school proudly demonstrated the unwavering commitment of its educators, staff, and students to fostering a dynamic and supportive learning environment. One particularly memorable experience was observing the students in Monterey High School's bio-med program, where they watched an exciting egg drop competition. This project showcased students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills and was a replica of what would occur during a concussion. This exciting opportunity allowed for a glimpse into the hands-on, experiential learning opportunities available to MPUSD students. Throughout the visit, Dr. Guss and her colleagues were impressed by the passion, creativity, and dedication of both the staff and students. The tour highlighted MPUSD’s efforts to cultivate a rich educational experience that prepares students for future success while nurturing a lifelong love of learning.

The MCOE Special Education Division hosted a vibrant lunch-hour game of Loteria, featuring nachos, dulces (candies), De La Rosa Mazapan, and a delightful assortment of other treats. Held on Friday, September 27, this event was part of the ongoing celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, observed each year from September 15 to October 15. MCOE is committed to promoting wellness and engagement activities like this to strengthen connections across departments and celebrate the rich diversity of our staff. By gathering for these shared experiences, we not only support one another but also honor the cultural heritage that reflects MCOE’s dedication to fostering inclusivity.

On Thursday, September 19, school district superintendents from throughout the county gathered for their monthly Superintendents’ Council meeting, with an offsite gathering at the Salinas Union High School District’s (SUHSD) Student Wellness Center located at Washington Middle School. The meeting, which included school district leaders, provided an opportunity to tour the facility and explore how it supports student well-being. Superintendent Dan Burns led the group through the center, showcasing the impactful services provided to students. Following the tour, the Superintendents’ Council received an insightful presentation from Claudia Gomez and Noel Teixeira from the Child Abuse Prevention Council on the Pathways to Safety program. This community referral system plays a crucial role in connecting families and children to essential resources. Additionally, Monterey Peninsula Unified School District Superintendent PK Diffenbaugh shared insights into MPUSD’s Youth-Led Mental Health Council, highlighting how students are taking an active role in promoting mental health awareness and support within their schools. Overall, the meeting reinforced the critical role schools play in fostering student wellness and mental health and encouraged ongoing collaboration to strengthen these vital support systems.

The Frazier Lake Airport Association welcomed students and staff from the Bob Hoover Academy at MCOE to their Open House and BBQ. The event drew over 130 paid attendees, along with enthusiastic recreational pilots and members of an antique car club. Despite the soaring 100-degree temperatures, attendees found comfort in the shaded hangars while enjoying lunch and cool drinks. Bob Hoover Academy at MCOE students made a strong impression, excelling in food preparation and assisting the host organizers. Their enthusiasm and work ethic left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance, contributing to the event’s success. The Open House was a fantastic opportunity for the BHA students to engage with the aviation community and contribute to a well-attended event, showcasing the positive impact of the academy on both its students and the wider community.

Congratulations to Ruby Villalobos Llamas, Paraeducator at MCOE’s Arthur B. Ingram School, who is our October employee of the month! Ruby exemplifies what it means to be exceptional in her role. Ruby consistently creates a nurturing environment for students with severe cognitive and medical conditions. Her patience and empathy shine through in every interaction, fostering a sense of safety and support that allows students to thrive. Ruby possesses deep knowledge of the conditions affecting her students and is able to communicate effectively with both staff and families, ensuring everyone involved is informed and aligned. Ruby’s keen observational skills allow her to anticipate the needs of her students and act accordingly, always with precision and care. Her ability to follow instructions closely while maintaining flexibility in the face of unexpected challenges speaks to her adaptability and commitment to each student’s success. She approaches her work with a deep respect for student dignity, always ensuring that each child feels valued and included. Ruby also plays a key role in collaborating with her colleagues, seamlessly contributing to the team and handling high-pressure situations with grace. Her commitment to continuous learning and professional growth further enhances her ability to support her students. For her unwavering dedication, compassionate nature, and exceptional contributions to the educational team, Ruby Villalobos Llamas is a vital asset to our school community.

Congratulations to Edward Brown, an exceptional educator at Bob Hoover Academy, who is our October employee of the month! Edward is renowned for building strong, meaningful relationships with his students. Through dynamic and engaging lessons, Mr. Brown stimulates curiosity while tailoring his approach to meet the unique needs and strengths of each student. His charismatic and compassionate nature fosters trust and respect, ensuring that every student feels understood and valued. During his time at the Monterey County Youth Center, Edward inspired students to envision positive futures and guided them toward opportunities beyond high school. Now at Bob Hoover Academy, Edward approaches his role with humility and enthusiasm, learning from colleagues while embedding aeronautics concepts into his lessons, which is a natural extension of his passion for rocketry. His fresh perspective has brought renewed energy to the program, earning him the admiration of both students and peers alike. Beyond the classroom, Edward serves as a mentor to newer staff, sharing insights from his experience in Alternative Education. He is committed to personal and professional growth, constantly refining his teaching methods to better support his students. Edward Brown’s unwavering dedication to his students' success, his collaborative spirit, and his innovative approach make him an invaluable asset to the team.

Join the MCOE Team! MCOE is seeking qualified applicants for a variety of open positions. We're hiring! With competitive pay, excellent benefits, and a strong retirement plan, MCOE offers a fantastic opportunity to kickstart your career in education while making a difference in Monterey County! If this sounds like the right fit for you or someone you know, apply today at edjoin.org/montereycoe. #MCOEHiring #JoinOurTeam #EducationCareers #MakeADifference