APRIL 2026 BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT BUSD MONTHLY NEWS Included in this issue Meet Interim Superintendent, Jorge Gutierrez STEM & BJHS Championship Basketball What’s Happening In Our District
Learning Is In Bloom Across BUSD This April
As we welcome the month of April, there is a special feeling in the air across Barstow Unified School District. Spring is here! The days are getting longer, the weather is warming up, and our campuses are filled with energy, growth, and possibility. Just like the season itself, this is a time of renewal, fresh ideas, and exciting “lightbulb moments” for our students. Spring is one of my favorite times of the school year because it’s when so many students begin to truly see how far they have come. A math problem that once felt impossible suddenly makes sense. A reader who struggled at the beginning of the year now turns pages with confidence. A student who was shy in August is now raising their hand and sharing their ideas. Those are the moments when you can almost see the lightbulb turn on—and they remind us why education matters so much. April also brings something many of our students and staff are looking forward to: Spring Break, which will take place the week of April 6th through April 10th. This is an important time to rest, recharge, and spend time with family. Whether you are traveling, enjoying time at home, reading a good book, or simply relaxing, I hope this break brings everyone the chance to pause and return refreshed for the final stretch of the school year. Even during this time of relaxation, spring is a wonderful reminder that learning happens everywhere. Families might notice lightbulb moments at home too—while cooking together, exploring outside, helping with a project, or simply having meaningful conversations. These everyday moments help our students grow not only academically, but as confident, curious young people. As we move through April, I want to thank our incredible staff for the dedication and care you bring to our students every single day. I also want to thank our families for your partnership and support. Together, we are helping our students discover their strengths, believe in themselves, and experience those powerful “I get it!” moments that make learning so exciting. I wish all of our students, staff, and families a joyful and relaxing Spring Break, and I look forward to seeing everyone back, refreshed and ready to finish the school year strong.
Superintendent Deanna Swearingen recently visited 2nd–4th grade students at Cameron Elementary for a collaborative "Lunch with the Superintendent." During the event, students provided insightful feedback on what they would like to see Principal Brent Leslie and the Cameron staff Start, Stop, and Continue doing to improve their school. Over pizza, the students shared their recent "lightbulb moments" and demonstrated exactly what it means to be one of the Cameron K.I.D.S.—leading their community through Kindness, Integrity, Determination, and Support.
-Deanna Swearingen, Superintendent
APRIL 2026
Page 2
BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT SITE EVENTS
BHS Track & Field
BHS CTE Careers in Education Students Visit Montara Elementary
Date
Event
Time
Place
Wed., Apr. 1 DSL Meet
12 p.m.
Silverado HS
Sat, Apr. 11
The Big Meet
TBD
Moreno Valley
Mon. Apr. 13 DSL Meet
12 p.m.
Victor Valley HS
Wed., April 29
DSL Finals
Field @ 9 a.m Running @ 10 a.m.
Silverado HS
Barstow High School CTE Careers in Education students recently visited Montara Elementary School. Students received a tour of the campus, learned about the education field from Principal Dominguez and attended the second grade awards assembly.
BHS Softball
Date
Opponent
Varsity JV Place
Thur. Apr. 2
Adelanto 3:15 p.m.
3:15 p.m.
Home
The Barstow Junior High School Science and Math departments attended a field trip to the Discovery Cube in Orange County. Students and staff enjoyed a wide variety of hands on and interactive activities, as well as a whole group lesson centered on force and motion.
Tue. Apr. 7
Victor Valley
3:15 p.m
3:15 p.m.
Away
Thur. Apr. 9
Victor Valley
3:15 p.m.
3:15 p.m.
Home
Tue. Apr. 21
Silverado 3:15 p.m.
Home
Tue. Apr. 21
Silverado
3:15 p.m.
Away
Thur. Apr. 23
Silverado 3:15 p.m.
Away
BUSD Customer Service Survey
Thur. Apr. 23
Silverado
3:15 p.m.
Home - Varsity Field
BUSD would love to hear about your experience with our staff at the district office, schools, or departments! If you visited us in person, contacted us by phone, or email, please tell us what made your experience exceptional or how we can improve. Scan the QR code to participate in our customer service survey. Your input is crucial to our continuous improvement and success! Thank you for taking the time to help us serve you better!
Tue. Apr. 28
Granite Hills
3:15 p.m.
3:15 p.m.
Home
APRIL 2026
Page 3
BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT SITE EVENTS St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations Around Barstow Unified
Students at Cameron (left), Montara (middle), and Crestline (right) elementary schools marked St. Patrick’s Day by wearing green, building leprechaun traps and hunting for leprechauns. Pupil Services is happy to announce the return of the Positive Action for the 2025-2026 school year!
What is Positive Action?
Positive Action is a six-week parenting course designed to help encourage using positive thoughts, actions, and feelings to help create or maintain a positive family life. The foundation of this course is the philosophy: “You feel good about yourself when you do positive actions, and there is a positive way to do everything”. Participants will receive a “family kit” that includes materials, tips, and lessons on how to implement positive action at home.* (Family kits are currently only available in English) Participation certificates will be provided.* (To receive the participation certificate, participants must attend all six weeks.)
For more information about Positive Action, please contact Jesenia Hinson 760-255-6043 or Alma Esquivel 760-255-6042.
Sign Up for ParentSquare
Barstow Unified School District uses ParentSquare to keep parents and guardians informed and to encourage greater engagement with your child’s school and BUSD. Use the QR Code below to download the ParentSquare app to stay connected with us.
BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
APRIL 2026
Page 4
DISTRICT OFFICE
At the heart of any successful school district is a foundation of financial stability and transparency. In the Barstow Unified School District, that foundation is expertly managed by Julie Carter, the Director of Fiscal Services. With a role that balances complex multi-million dollar budgets with the day-to-day needs of our students and staff, Julie ensures that every dollar is directed toward fostering an environment where academic excellence can thrive. Julie’s deep-rooted commitment to the district spans over two decades. She began her career with BUSD in 2002 within the Fiscal Services Department, where she built a strong technical foundation. Her versatile skill set and leadership potential led her to serve as the Superintendent’s Senior Executive Assistant from 2010 to 2019, a role that provided her with a comprehensive view of district-wide operations and strategy. In 2019, she returned to her roots in finance to take the helm as the Director of Fiscal Services. Today, Julie is known for her meticulous oversight of the district’s financial health, navigating the intricacies of state funding and educational grants with precision. Collaborative and approachable, she works closely with department heads and site principals to ensure that resources are allocated equitably and efficiently. Her dedication to transparency not only keeps the district in compliance with rigorous standards but also builds trust within the Barstow community, proving that their investment in local education is in capable hands. Every pencil, laptop, and desk in our classrooms has a journey, and Jose Cruz is the person who makes that journey possible. As the Director of Purchasing and Warehouse for Barstow Unified School District, Jose oversees how the district buys and stores everything we need to run our schools. His job is to make sure our teachers and students have the right tools at the right time, all while making sure the district gets the best value for every dollar spent. Jose’s career at BUSD moved quickly because of his hard work and knack for organization. He joined the team in 2022 as the District Buyer, where he was responsible for finding vendors and handling everyday orders. He did such a great job streamlining the way we buy supplies that he was promoted to Director in 2025. Now, he leads the entire department, managing both the office staff who handle the paperwork and the warehouse team that keeps our supplies moving. Beyond just ordering boxes and tracking inventory, Jose is a true team player. He works closely with principals and department heads to make sure that whatever they need—from new technology to cleaning supplies—fits the district’s goals and budget. By keeping our "supply chain" running smoothly and our warehouse organized, Jose Cruz provides the behind-the-scenes support that keeps our schools open and our students learning. Ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff is a top priority for the Barstow Unified School District, and Deidre Long stands at the forefront of that mission as the Director of Risk Management. Since stepping into this role in 2016, Deidre has been instrumental in safeguarding the district’s assets and operations. From managing insurance programs and workers' compensation to overseeing safety protocols and emergency preparedness, her work provides the essential security net that allows the district to focus on its core mission: education. Deidre’s journey with BUSD is a testament to her dedication and deep institutional knowledge. She began her career with the district in 2007 as an office assistant substitute, quickly proving her value as she worked her way up to Administrative Assistant in Instructional Support Services. Her sharp analytical skills led to a promotion to Projects Technician in 2012, followed by a pivotal role as the Executive Assistant of Business Services. This upward trajectory through various departments has given her a unique, 360-degree understanding of how the district functions at every level. In her current capacity, Deidre is known for her proactive approach to hazard mitigation and her ability to navigate complex regulatory environments with ease. She is a collaborator at heart, working across departments to implement safety training and wellness initiatives that benefit the entire BUSD community. By balancing technical expertise with a genuine care for the people of Barstow, Deidre Long ensures that our schools remain a safe, secure, and thriving environment for everyone.
Julie Carter Director, Fiscal Services
Jose Cruz, Director, Purchasing & Warehouse
Deidre Long, Director, Risk Management
APRIL 2026 BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Page 5 AROUND THE DISTRICT
Jose Lopez- Govea Barstow Fine Arts Academy
Shelley Carlson Skyline North Elementary
Jossy Zamora-Vargas Crestline Elementary
Amanda Wright Cameron Elementary
Yulissa Godinez Montara Elementary
Francesca Zaffino Lenwood Elementary
Amber Smith Henderson Elementary
Supporting the Whole Child: Meet Our Elementary School Counselors At Barstow Unified, we believe academic success depends on students feeling safe and supported. Our elementary school counselors are proactive partners in every child's well-being, moving beyond just crisis intervention.
What Does an Elementary Counselor Do? Counselors focus on three key areas:
● Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): They teach life skills like empathy and conflict resolution in classrooms. ● Small-Group Support: They lead groups on topics like friendship, self-confidence, and coping with grief or change. ● Individual Check-Ins: They offer a safe, confidential space for students to feel heard.
Supporting the Whole Child Emotional support improves attendance and academic performance. By focusing on the "whole child," counselors remove learning barriers like anxiety. As one counselor said, "Our goal is to be a bridge between the classroom and the home... every student has an advocate." Meet Our Elementary Counseling Team We recognize the dedication of our counselors: Barstow Fine Arts Academy: Jose Lopez-Govea; Cameron Elementary: Amanda Wright; Crestline Elementary: Jossy Zamora-Vargas; Henderson Elementary: Amber Smith; Lenwood Elementary: Francesca Zaffino; Montara Elementary: Yulissa Godinez; Skyline North Elementary: Shelley Carlson. Their compassion and expertise support our students daily. How Families Can Connect Counselors are also resources for families, offering guidance on home routines, local resources, and child development. Connect by: Visiting your school's website, Calling the front office for the counseling department, or Requesting their participation in parent-teacher conferences.
We are proud of our team's impact. Please thank them—they are the heart of our schools.
BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT SPORTS NEWS Newsletter
APRIL 2026
Page 6
BJHS Boys’, STEM Academy Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball Teams win HDAL Titles
Congratulations to the our High Desert Athletic League Champions: Large Schools Champs Barstow Junior High School Boys’, Small Schools Champs Barstow STEM Academy Boys’ and Girls’. The Hawks won their championship on March 13 and the Phoenix Boys’ and Girls’ clinched their titles on March 6.
Barstow Junior High School Boys’ and Barstow STEM Academy Boys’ and Girls’ basketball teams celebrate after winning High Desert Athletic League titles. Photo credit: Dr. McDonald and Barstow STEM Academy.
BHS Baseball
Date
Opponent Varsity Time JV Time Place
BJHS Soccer
STEM Soccer
Thur. Apr. 2
Adelanto 3:15 p.m. 3:15 p.m.
Away
Date
Opponents Time
Date Opponents Time
Pathways (Home)
Cedar (Away) Hook (Home) Larrea (Away)
Wed. Apr. 1
4:00 p.m.
Thur. Apr. 2
4:00 p.m.
Tue. Apr. 7 Victor Valley 3:15 p.m. 3:15 p.m.
Home
Desert (Away)
Tue. Apr. 14
4:00 p.m.
Thur. Apr. 9 Victor Valley 3:15 p.m. 3:15 p.m.
Away
Mon. Apr. 13
4:00 p.m.
Pathways (Away) Heritage (Home) Fort Irwin (Home)
Thurs. Apr.16
4:00 p.m.
Tue. Apr. 21 Silverado 3:15 p.m.
Away
Fri. Apr. 17
4:00 p.m.
Hesperia (Away)
Home @ BHS
Tue. Apr. 21
4:00 p.m.
Tue. Apr. 21 Silverado
3:15 p.m.
Tue. Apr. 21
4:30 p.m.
Melva Davis (Away) Quail Valley (Home)
Tue. Apr. 28
4:00 p.m.
Thur. Apr. 23 Silverado 3:15 p.m.
Home
Thur. Apr. 23
4:30 p.m.
Thur. Apr. 30
4:00 p.m.
Laverne (Home) Yermo (Home)
Thur. Apr. 23 Silverado
3:15 p.m.
Away
Tue. Apr. 28
4:30 p.m.
Tue. Apr. 28 Granite Hills 3:15 p.m.
3:15 p.m.
Away
Thur. Apr. 30
4:30 p.m.
Thur. Apr. 30 Granite Hills 3:15 p.m.
3:15 p.m.
Home
BHS Golf
BHS Tennis
Note: All JV Baseball games are played at Barstow Sports Park unless otherwise noted.
Date
Opponent
Time
Place
Date
Opponent
Time Place
Muroc Lake
Granite Hills
Wed. Apr. 1 Cluster 6 11 a.m.
Thur. Apr. 2.
3 p.m.
Away
Mon. Apr. 6 Cluster 7 2 p.m.
MCLB Tue. Apr. 7 Adelanto 3 p.m Home
Mon. Apr. 13 Wed. Apr. 15 Mon. Apr. 20 Wed. Apr 22 Wed. Apr. 29
Apple Valley Green Tree
Victor Valley
Cluster 8 2 p.m.
Thur. Apr. 9
3 p.m.
Away
Cluster 9 2 p.m.
Tue. Apr. 14 AAE 3 p.m.
Home
Thur. Apr. 16
Cluster 10 2 p.m.
MCLB
Silverado 3 p.m.
Home
Apple Valley
Granite Hills
Cluster 11 2 p.m.
Tue. Apr. 21
3 p.m.
Home
Thur. Apr. 23 Wed. Apr. 29
DSL Finals 10 a.m.
TBD
Adelanto 3 p.m.
Away
The Aztecs’ Baseball team will host Desert Sky League foes Victor Valley, Silverado and Granite Hills high schools this month.
Victor Valley
DSL Finals 9 a.m.
BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT HAPPENINGS
APRIL 2026
Page 7
BUSD March Employees of the Month Classified Elementary: Certificated Elementary: We invite the entire Barstow community to help us celebrate these indispensable team members. Whether through a handwritten note, a digital shout-out, or a simple "thank you" during an office visit, your appreciation goes a long way in acknowledging the hard work that often happens behind the scenes. Our administrative professionals do not just fill roles; they build the relationships and provide the stability that hold our BUSD community together. At BUSD, we are proud to honor the four pillars of our administrative support system. Our Office Assistants are the vital pulse of daily operations, providing the flexibility needed to greet families and manage the essential paperwork that keeps our offices flowing seamlessly. Our Principals Secretaries serve as the frontline of our school sites, acting as heroic multitaskers who manage student records and support campus leaders with unwavering dedication. Our Administrative Assistants are logistical masterminds, coordinating complex schedules and budgets to ensure our teachers have the resources necessary for student success. At the district level, our Executive Assistants navigate high-stakes systems with grace, providing indispensable support to the Business Office, the Assistant Superintendents of Personnel Services and Educational Services, as well as the Superintendent and Board of Education to maintain a steady vision for our schools. Behind every successful classroom, every organized school event, and every smoothly running office in the Barstow Unified School District is a dedicated administrative professional. On Wednesday, April 22, 2026, BUSD joins the global community in celebrating Administrative Professionals Day. This observance, which falls on the Wednesday of the last full week of April, serves as a vital moment to pause and recognize the incredible individuals who keep our educational gears turning. As the first faces seen by visitors and the voices that offer clarity to our families, these professionals are truly the "heart of the house." The history of this recognition dates back to 1952, when it was established as "National Secretaries Day" to address a post-WWII labor shortage. Over the decades, the name has evolved—becoming "Professional Secretaries Day" in 1981 and finally "Administrative Professionals Day" in 2000—to reflect the growing complexity and diverse titles within the field. Today, the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) continues to use this day to promote professional development, fair pay, and the recognition of administrative staff as essential business partners who manage the critical "invisible labor" that sustains every organization. Celebrating Administrative Professionals Day
As spring begins, many celebrate April Fools’ Day with harmless pranks. The holiday's exact origin is unknown, but a popular theory traces it to 1582, when France moved New Year's Day from April 1 to January 1; those who continued celebrating in April were called "April fools." Others link it to ancient spring festivals like the Roman Hilaria. Today, April Fools' Day is global, featuring traditions like taping paper fish (Poisson d’Avril!) in France, two-day celebrations with backside jokes in Scotland, and the Greek belief that a successful prank brings good luck. April Fools’ Day: A Little History, A Lot of Laughter Keep the Fun School-Friendly If planning a prank, remember our Golden Rules:
Be Kind : Everyone should laugh.
No Messes : Avoid extra cleanup.
Keep It Quick : Don't interrupt learning.
The best prank leaves everyone smiling!
551 South Avenue H - Barstow - CA 92311 (760) 255-6000 - Fax: (760) 255-8965 - www.busdk12.com
March 5, 2026
Dear Business Partner,
Barstow Unified School District is reaching out to ask for your support for our upcoming annual Employee Appreciation Picnic. The District is actively accepting donations and would greatly appreciate your consideration. Your support allows us to celebrate BUSD’s staff and the work they do every day to enrich the lives of children in Barstow.
Our donors typically donate within the following sponsorship levels: ●
Platinum: $2,500 (Platinum level includes a business card ad in our District Newsletter - reaching 6,000 students and 700 staff)*
Gold: Silver: Bronze:
$2,000 $1,500 $1,000
● ● ●
Gabriela Nunez-Martinez - Crestline Amanda Sabblut - Cameron Briana Simonaitis - Central High Rachel Ham - Barstow High Uta Harrell Jarriana Stone Margarita “Maggie” Pina - ISS Michael Prado -Sky
Checks can be made payable to:
Classified Secondary: Certificated Secondary: Classified Substitute: Certificated Substitute: District Classified: Management Team: Superintendent’s Choice:
Barstow Unified School District 551 S. Avenue H Barstow, CA 92311 Annotated: 2026 Employee Appreciation Picnic *Tax ID will be provided upon donation. The District looks forward to this event each year and as such it tends to draw a large crowd of approximately 800 -1,000 people. Your donation will help cover costs. Your donation and support are genuinely appreciated and a tremendous help in celebrating BUSD staff. If you would like to set up a booth to speak with BUSD staff about your products and services, please contact the Business Office by calling 760-255-6009
Jeanette Dominguez - Henderson
We are Hiring! www.edjoin.org/barstowusd
Respectfully,
Click the QR code for a complete list of career opportunities at BUSD.
Deanna Swearingen, Superintendent
BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
APRIL 2026
Page 8
SCHOOL BOARD School Board of Trustees
Elizabeth Givens Trustee
Leonard Williams President
Aaron Heldreth Vice President
Anthony Yslas Clerk
Ray Perea Trustee
Barstow Unified Approves New Math Curriculum for K–8
The Barstow Unified School District Board of Education approved a new math curriculum, HMH’s California Into Math , for K–8 students on March 10, 2026. This six-year program will launch in the 2026–2027 school year. The adoption followed a careful, multi-step process beginning with state-level approval by the California Department of Education (CDE) and the State Board of Education.
BUSD's district-level review involved a collaborative committee of educators and specialists.
They:
Identified district needs.
●
● Evaluated materials against state standards and frameworks. ● Reviewed social content standards. ● Piloted the materials in classrooms. The committee, which included diverse educators supporting all learners (including English learners and students with disabilities), recommended California Into Math after months of review and testing.
This new program is designed to help students:
Build strong problem-solving skills.
● ● ● ●
Understand mathematical reasoning, not just solutions.
Connect math to real life. Boost confidence and curiosity.
Students will engage with hands-on activities, discussions, visual models, and technology.
Teachers will receive professional development and training before the 2026–2027 launch to ensure a smooth transition. BUSD is enthusiastic about this new chapter in math education, aiming to equip every student with skills for school, careers, and daily life.
When and how to contact the School Board You should contact the school board when you have concerns or questions about the district’s policies, budget, school programs, or safety issues. It's also a good idea to reach out if you want to participate in public meetings, share ideas, or provide feedback about your child’s school. For specific personal issues, like student discipline or individual school matters, it's often best to first contact the school or district administration.
School Board Emails: aaron_heldreth@busdk12.com ray_perea@busdk12.com anthony_yslas@busdk12.com leonard_williams@busdk12.com elizabeth_givens@busdk12.com
APRIL 2026 Page 9 SCHOOL BOARD NEWS BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
From Classroom to District Leadership: Mr. Jorge Gutiérrez to Lead BUSD as Interim Superintendent
The Barstow Unified School District Board of Trustees is preparing for the future by outlining a proposed process to identify the district’s next Superintendent. The plan includes working with Education Support Services (ESS), a firm experienced in conducting leadership searches for school districts across California. The proposed search would follow a structured four-phase process: Engagement, Activation, Selection, and Transition. Early in the process, the Board would gather input from staff, parents, students, and community members through focus groups, community forums, and an online survey. This feedback would help create a Leadership Profile describing the qualities and experience the community hopes to see in the district’s next leader. Once the profile is developed, the position would be widely advertised while advisers recruit and screen qualified candidates. The Board would review applications, conduct interviews, and identify a preferred candidate before moving forward with contract negotiations. If approved, the Board would aim to select the new Superintendent in spring 2027, with a potential start date of July 1, 2027. The final phase of the process would focus on supporting a smooth transition and setting the stage for the district’s next chapter of leadership. Proposed Superintendent Search Process
The Barstow Unified School District is proud to announce that Mr. Jorge Gutierrez will serve as our Interim Superintendent beginning July 1, 2026. With more than two decades of dedicated service to the Barstow community and a long history of leadership within our district, Mr. Gutierrez brings both experience and a deep understanding of what makes BUSD special. Mr. Gutierrez is not new to our schools or our families. His career in education began in 1994, and for more than 22 of those years he has served the students, staff, and community of Barstow Unified School District. During that time, he has worked in many different roles, giving him a unique perspective on how every part of a school district works together to support student success.
Mr. Jorge Gutierrez will serve as Interim Superintendent of the Barstow Unified School District beginning July 1, 2026. With more than 22 years of service to BUSD, he brings a deep commitment to student success and strong relationships with students, staff, and families across the district.
He began his journey at Crestline Elementary School, where he was part of a team that helped the school successfully exit Program Improvement status by focusing on strong instruction in literacy and mathematics. From there, he continued serving students as a Pre-Algebra teacher and department chair at Barstow Junior High School, where student achievement in mathematics increased significantly during his time in the classroom. Mr. Gutierrez later served the entire district as an Instructional Coach and English Learner Coordinator, supporting teachers, strengthening curriculum alignment, and helping ensure that every student — including English Learners — received the support they needed to succeed. He also worked closely with families through ELAC and DELAC to make sure parent voices remained an important part of district decision-making. As Principal of Barstow Junior High School, Mr. Gutierrez led efforts that improved student outcomes across all state priorities and helped the school move out of Comprehensive Support and Improvement (CSI) status. Most recently, he has served as the Assistant Superintendent of Personnel Services, where he has supported staff, worked closely with school leaders, and helped guide the district through the many staffing and organizational challenges that followed the pandemic. As Interim Superintendent, Mr. Gutierrez will focus on providing steady leadership during this transition while continuing the district’s important work in student academic success, district improvement efforts, and major facility projects. His long-standing relationships with students, families, employees, and community partners will help ensure that the district continues moving forward without interruption. Mr. Gutierrez has shared that he is passionate about the success of every BUSD student and is committed to upholding the Board’s vision for our schools and community. We are excited to welcome him into this leadership role and look forward to the continued progress of Barstow Unified School District under his guidance.
Public Comment T he board meeting is a business meeting of the board held in a public forum. This is not a town hall meeting with the board. There is time during the meeting to receive public comment from citizens to present problems or questions they feel the board should discuss. Individuals are encouraged to address the full board, not individual Board members. The law prohibits the Board from taking action on items not on the agenda. Request to speak cards should be filled out in advance and presented to the Superintendent's Executive Assistant. Instructions for submitting remote public comment can be found on our website www.busdk12.com under the tab “Board of Trustees.”
BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
APRIL 2026
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BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
APRIL 2026
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BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
APRIL 2026
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Down : 1.
The long break from school that comes in April. The name of the City where our schools are located.
2.
4. 6. 9.
Something you fly on a windy day.
What do you do with a book in the library?
The number of days in April.
11.
The season where flowers bloom and we have a break. A holiday that falls on a Friday in April this year.
12. 14. 16. 17.
The month that comes right before April. We go to school to _____________. You use these to write or draw in class.
Across: 1.
The “S” in BUSD.
3. 5. 7. 8.
In April, the weather gets_______. The month of this crossword.
The name of the “S.A.F.E” Center (Student and Family ____).
BUSD is a school _______.
10. 13. 15.
The wild horse mascot for Lenwood Elementary.
The fastest bird in Barstow.
March Crossword Answers: Across: 4. CAREER 7. LUCK 8. CALICO 10. SOPHOMORE 13. DRIVEIN 14. HSTREET 18. GREEN Down: 1. JACKRABBITS 2. DAFFODIL 3. PIE 5. RAIN 6. WILLIAM 8. CLOVER 9. SPRING 12. KITE 15. SKYLINE 16. THREE 17. LEARN
The color of the big vehicles that take kids to BUSD schools. “Learning is an_______ process.” (BUSD’s core belief). The California ______ is the state flower that is in full bloom from February to May.
18. 19.
Word search answers can be horizontal, vertical, or diagonal.
SPRINGBREAK GOODFRIDAY
MUSTANG BARSTOW
APRIL READ ENGAGEMENT
DISTRICT WARMER POPPY ROADRUNNER YELLOW
SPRING ACTIVE SCHOOL
PENCIL MARCH KITE
LEARN THIRTY
APRIL 2026 BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICIAS MENSUALES DE BUSD
Incluido en este número
STEM y BJHS Campeonato de Baloncesto
Conozca al superintendente interino, Jorge Gutiérrez
¿Qué está sucediendo? en nuestro distrito
El aprendizaje florece en todo el BUSD este abril.
Al dar la bienvenida al mes de abril, se percibe una sensación especial en el ambiente en todo el Distrito Escolar Unificado de Barstow. ¡La primavera ya está aquí! Los días se hacen más largos, el clima se vuelve más cálido y nuestros planteles se llenan de energía, crecimiento y posibilidades. Al igual que la propia estación, este es un tiempo de renovación, de ideas frescas y de esos emocionantes «momentos de revelación» para nuestros estudiantes. La primavera es una de mis épocas favoritas del año escolar, ya que es cuando muchos estudiantes comienzan a ver realmente cuánto han avanzado. Un problema de matemáticas que antes parecía imposible, de repente cobra sentido. Un lector que tenía dificultades al principio del año, ahora pasa las páginas con confianza. Un estudiante que era tímido en agosto, ahora levanta la mano y comparte sus ideas. Esos son los momentos en los que casi se puede ver cómo se enciende la bombilla de la comprensión, y nos recuerdan por qué la educación es tan importante. Abril también trae consigo algo que muchos de nuestros estudiantes y miembros del personal esperan con ansias: las vacaciones de primavera, que tendrán lugar durante la semana del 6 al 10 de abril. Este es un momento importante para descansar, recargar energías y pasar tiempo en familia. Ya sea que viajen, disfruten de su tiempo en casa, lean un buen libro o simplemente se relajen, espero que este descanso brinde a todos la oportunidad de hacer una pausa y regresar renovados para el tramo final del año escolar. Incluso durante este tiempo de descanso, la primavera es un recordatorio maravilloso de que el aprendizaje ocurre en todas partes. Las familias también podrían notar esos momentos de revelación en casa: al cocinar juntos, explorar al aire libre, ayudar con un proyecto o simplemente mantener conversaciones significativas. Estos momentos cotidianos ayudan a nuestros estudiantes a crecer, no solo en el ámbito académico, sino también como jóvenes seguros de sí mismos y curiosos. A medida que avanzamos en el mes de abril, quiero agradecer a nuestro increíble personal por la dedicación y el cuidado que brindan a nuestros estudiantes cada día. También quiero agradecer a nuestras familias por su colaboración y apoyo. Juntos, estamos ayudando a nuestros estudiantes a descubrir sus fortalezas, a creer en sí mismos y a experimentar esos poderosos momentos de «¡Ya lo entiendo!» que hacen que el aprendizaje sea tan emocionante. Deseo a todos nuestros estudiantes, personal y familias unas vacaciones de primavera alegres y relajantes, y espero con entusiasmo verlos a todos de regreso, renovados y listos para terminar el año escolar con fuerza. -Deanna Swearingen, Superintendent
Superintendent Deanna Swearingen recently visited 2nd–4th grade students at Cameron Elementary for a collaborative "Lunch with the Superintendent." During the event, students provided insightful feedback on what they would like to see Principal Brent Leslie and the Cameron staff Start, Stop, and Continue doing to improve their school. Over pizza, the students shared their recent "lightbulb moments" and demonstrated exactly what it means to be one of the Cameron K.I.D.S.—leading their community through Kindness, Integrity, Determination, and Support.
ABRIL 2026
Página 2
BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
Eventos en el sitio
Atletismo de BHS
Estudiantes del programa CTE en Carreras de Educación
Fecha
Event
Hora
Lugar
Wed., Apr. 1 DSL Meet
12 p.m.
Silverado HS
Sat, Apr. 11
The Big Meet
TBD
Moreno Valley
Mon. Apr. 13 DSL Meet
12 p.m.
Victor Valley HS
Wed., April 29
DSL Finals
Field @ 9 a.m Running @ 10 a.m.
Silverado HS
Los estudiantes del programa de Formación Profesional y Técnica (CTE) en Educación de la preparatoria Barstow visitaron recientemente la escuela primaria Montara. Los estudiantes recorrieron las instalaciones, aprendieron sobre el campo de la educación de la mano del director Dominguez y asistieron a la ceremonia de entrega de premios de segundo grado.
Softbol BHS
Fecha Oponentes Hora V
Hora JV
Lugar
Thur. Apr. 2
Adelanto 3:15 p.m.
3:15 p.m.
Home
Los departamentos de Ciencias y Matemáticas de la escuela secundaria Barstow realizaron una excursión al Discovery Cube en el condado de Orange. Estudiantes y personal disfrutaron de una gran variedad de actividades prácticas e interactivas, así como de una lección grupal centrada en la fuerza y el movimiento.
Tue. Apr. 7
Victor Valley
3:15 p.m
3:15 p.m.
Away
Thur. Apr. 9
Victor Valley
3:15 p.m.
3:15 p.m.
Home
Tue. Apr. 21
Silverado 3:15 p.m.
Home
Tue. Apr. 21
Silverado
3:15 p.m.
Away
Thur. Apr. 23
Silverado 3:15 p.m.
Away
Encuesta de servicio al cliente de BUSD
Thur. Apr. 23
Silverado
3:15 p.m.
Home - Varsity Field
A continuación se presenta la traducción al español: ¡A BUSD le encantaría saber acerca de su experiencia con nuestro personal en las oficinas del distrito, escuelas o departamentos! Si nos visitó en persona, nos contactó por teléfono o correo electrónico, por favor díganos qué hizo que su experiencia fuera excepcional o cómo podemos mejorar. Escanee el código QR para participar en nuestra encuesta de servicio al cliente. ¡Su opinión es crucial para nuestra mejora continua y éxito! ¡Gracias por tomarse el tiempo para ayudarnos a servirle mejor!
Tue. Apr. 28
Granite Hills
3:15 p.m.
3:15 p.m.
Home
ABRIL 2026
BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Página 3 Eventos en el sitio
Celebraciones del Día de San Patricio en el Distrito Escolar Unificado de Barstow
Los alumnos de las escuelas primarias Cameron (izquierda), y Montara (derecha), Crestline (centro), celebraron el día de San Patricio vistiendo de verde, construyendo trampas para duendes y buscando duendes. El Servicio de Alumnos se complace en anunciar el regreso de la Acción Positiva para el curso 2025-2026
¿Qué es Acción Positiva?
Acción Positiva es un curso para padres de seis semanas diseñado para ayudar a fomentar el uso de pensamientos, acciones y sentimientos positivos para ayudar a crear o mantener una vida familiar positiva. La base de este curso es la filosofía "Te sientes bien contigo mismo cuando realizas acciones positivas, y hay una forma positiva de hacerlo todo". Los participantes recibirán un "kit familiar" que incluye materiales, consejos y lecciones sobre cómo poner en práctica acciones positivas en casa.* (Actualmente, los kits familiares y el material didáctico sólo están disponibles en inglés) Se entregarán certificados de participación.* (Para recibir el certificado de participación., los participantes deben asistir a las seis semanas). Para obtener más información acerca de Acción Positiva, póngase en contacto con Jesenia Hinson 760-255-6043 o Alma Esquivel 760-255-6042.
Sign Up for ParentSquare El Distrito Escolar Unificado de Barstow usa ParentSquare para mantener informados a los padres y tutores, y para fomentar una mayor participación con la escuela de su hijo y con el BUSD. Use el código QR a continuación para descargar la aplicación ParentSquare y mantenerse conectado con nosotros.
ABRIL 2026 Página 4 OFICINA DE DISTRITO BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
En el corazón de cualquier distrito escolar exitoso reside un cimiento de estabilidad financiera y transparencia. En el Distrito Escolar Unificado de Barstow (BUSD), este cimiento es gestionado con maestría por Julie Carter, Directora de Servicios Fiscales. Con una función que equilibra complejos presupuestos multimillonarios con las necesidades cotidianas de nuestros estudiantes y personal, Julie asegura que cada dólar se destine a fomentar un entorno en el que la excelencia académica pueda prosperar. El profundo compromiso de Julie con el distrito abarca más de dos décadas. Inició su carrera en el BUSD en 2002, dentro del Departamento de Servicios Fiscales, donde forjó una sólida base técnica. Su versátil conjunto de habilidades y su potencial de liderazgo la llevaron a desempeñarse como Asistente Ejecutiva Principal del Superintendente entre 2010 y 2019; un cargo que le brindó una visión integral de las operaciones y la estrategia de todo el distrito. En 2019, regresó a sus raíces en el ámbito financiero para asumir el liderazgo como Directora de Servicios Fiscales. Hoy en día, Julie es reconocida por su minuciosa supervisión de la salud financiera del distrito, navegando con precisión por las complejidades de la financiación estatal y las subvenciones educativas. Colaborativa y accesible, trabaja en estrecha colaboración con los jefes de departamento y los directores de los planteles para garantizar que los recursos se asignen de manera equitativa y eficiente. Su dedicación a la transparencia no solo asegura que el distrito cumpla con rigurosos estándares, sino que también fomenta la confianza dentro de la comunidad de Barstow, demostrando que su inversión en la educación local se encuentra en manos competentes. Cada artículo en nuestras aulas tiene una historia, y José Cruz, Director de Compras y Almacén del BUSD, es clave en ella. Supervisa la adquisición y el almacenamiento de todo lo necesario para las escuelas, asegurando que maestros y estudiantes tengan las herramientas adecuadas al mejor precio. José inició en el BUSD en 2022 como Comprador del Distrito, destacándose por optimizar los procesos de adquisición. En 2025, fue ascendido a Director, liderando ahora tanto al personal administrativo como al equipo del almacén. Es un jugador de equipo, colaborando con directores y jefes de departamento para alinear las necesidades (desde tecnología hasta limpieza) con el presupuesto. Al mantener la "cadena de suministro" fluida y el almacén organizado, José Cruz ofrece un apoyo esencial, aunque invisible, para el funcionamiento de nuestras escuelas y el aprendizaje de los estudiantes. Garantizar la seguridad y el bienestar de los estudiantes y del personal es una prioridad absoluta para el Distrito Escolar Unificado de Barstow, y Deidre Long se sitúa a la vanguardia de esta misión en su cargo de Directora de Gestión de Riesgos. Desde que asumió este rol en 2016, Deidre ha desempeñado un papel fundamental en la salvaguarda de los activos y las operaciones del distrito. Desde la gestión de programas de seguros y compensación para trabajadores hasta la supervisión de protocolos de seguridad y la preparación ante emergencias, su labor proporciona la red de seguridad esencial que permite al distrito centrarse en su misión principal: la educación. La trayectoria de Deidre en el BUSD es un testimonio de su dedicación y de su profundo conocimiento institucional. Inició su carrera en el distrito en 2007 como asistente de oficina suplente, demostrando rápidamente su valía a medida que ascendía hasta ocupar el puesto de Asistente Administrativa en los Servicios de Apoyo Instruccional. Sus agudas habilidades analíticas le valieron un ascenso a Técnica de Proyectos en 2012, seguido de un papel crucial como Asistente Ejecutiva de Servicios Comerciales. Esta trayectoria ascendente a través de diversos departamentos le ha brindado una comprensión única y de 360 grados sobre el funcionamiento del distrito en todos sus niveles. En su cargo actual, Deidre es reconocida por su enfoque proactivo en la mitigación de riesgos y por su capacidad para desenvolverse con soltura en entornos normativos complejos. Es una colaboradora por naturaleza, trabajando transversalmente con los distintos departamentos para implementar capacitaciones en seguridad e iniciativas de bienestar que benefician a toda la comunidad del BUSD. Al combinar su pericia técnica con un interés genuino por la gente de Barstow, Deidre Long asegura que nuestras escuelas sigan siendo un entorno seguro, protegido y próspero para todos.
Julie Carter Director de Servicios Fiscales
Jose Cruz, Director de Compras y Almacén
Deidre Long, Director de Gestión de Riesgos
ABRIL 2026 BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Página 5 ALREDEDOR DEL DISTRITO Apoyando al niño integral: Conozca a nuestros consejeros de primaria
En Barstow Unified, creemos que el éxito académico depende de que los estudiantes se sientan seguros y respaldados. Nuestros consejeros de primaria son socios proactivos en el bienestar de cada niño, y su labor va más allá de la simple intervención en crisis.
¿Qué hace un consejero de primaria? Los consejeros se centran en tres áreas clave:
Aprendizaje socioemocional (SEL): Enseñan habilidades para la vida, como la empatía y la resolución de conflictos, directamente en las aulas. Apoyo en grupos pequeños: Dirigen grupos de trabajo sobre temas como la amistad, la autoconfianza y cómo afrontar el duelo o los cambios. Seguimiento individual: Ofrecen un espacio seguro y confidencial para que los estudiantes se sientan escuchados. Apoyo integral al niño El apoyo emocional mejora la asistencia escolar y el rendimiento académico. Al centrarse en el "niño de manera integral", los consejeros eliminan barreras para el aprendizaje, como la ansiedad. Como dijo uno de nuestros consejeros: "Nuestro objetivo es servir de puente entre el aula y el hogar... para asegurar que cada estudiante tenga un defensor". Conozca a nuestro equipo de consejería de primaria Reconocemos la dedicación de nuestros consejeros: Barstow Fine Arts Academy: Jose Lopez-Govea; Cameron Elementary: Amanda Wright; Crestline Elementary: Jossy Zamora-Vargas; Henderson Elementary: Amber Smith; Lenwood Elementary: Francesca Zaffino; Montara Elementary: Yulissa Godinez; Skyline North Elementary: Shelley Carlson. Su compasión y experiencia brindan apoyo a nuestros estudiantes día tras día.
Cómo pueden conectarse las familias Los consejeros también son un recurso valioso para las familias, ofreciendo orientación sobre rutinas en el hogar, recursos locales y el desarrollo infantil. Puede conectarse con ellos de las siguientes maneras: visitando el sitio web de su escuela, llamando a la oficina principal para solicitar comunicarse con el departamento de consejería, o solicitando su participación en las conferencias de padres y maestros.
Estamos orgullosos del impacto que genera nuestro equipo. Por favor, agradézcales su labor; ellos son el corazón de nuestras escuelas.
Jose Lopez- Govea Barstow Fine Arts Academy
Shelley Carlson Skyline North Elementary
Jossy Zamora-Vargas Crestline Elementary
Amanda Wright Cameron Elementary
Yulissa Godinez Montara Elementary
Francesca Zaffino Lenwood Elementary
Amber Smith Henderson Elementary
ABRIL 2026 BARSTOW UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Newsletter Página 6 NOTICIAS DEPORTIVAS Los equipos de baloncesto masculino de BJHS y de la Academia STEM ganan los títulos de la HDAL.
Felicitaciones a nuestros campeones de la Liga Atlética de High Desert: campeones de escuelas grandes, Barstow Junior High School Boys’, y campeones de escuelas pequeñas, Barstow STEM Academy Boys’ and Girls’. Cada equipo ganó su respectivo campeonato el mes pasado.
Los equipos de baloncesto masculino de la escuela secundaria Barstow y de la Academia STEM de Barstow, tanto masculino como femenino, celebran tras ganar los títulos de la Liga Atlética del Alto Desierto. Crédito de la foto: Dr. McDonald y Academia STEM de Barstow.
Béisbol BHS
Fecha
Oponentes Hora V Hora JV Lugar
Fútbol de BJHS
Fútbol de STEM
Thur. Apr. 2
Adelanto 3:15 p.m. 3:15 p.m. visitante
Fecha
Oponentes Hora
Fecha Oponentes Hora
Pathways (Home)
Cedar (Away) Hook (Home) Larrea (Away)
Wed. Apr. 1
4:00 p.m.
Thur. Apr. 2
4:00 p.m.
Tue. Apr. 7 Victor Valley 3:15 p.m. 3:15 p.m. casa
Mon. Apr. 13
Desert (Away)
visitante
Tue. Apr. 14
4:00 p.m.
Thur. Apr. 9 Victor Valley 3:15 p.m. 3:15 p.m.
4:00 p.m.
visitante
Pathways (Away) Heritage (Home) Fort Irwin (Home)
Thurs. Apr.16
4:00 p.m.
Tue. Apr. 21 Silverado 3:15 p.m.
Fri. Apr. 17
4:00 p.m.
Hesperia (Away)
casa@ BHS
Tue. Apr. 21
4:00 p.m.
Tue. Apr. 21 Silverado
3:15 p.m.
Tue. Apr. 21
4:30 p.m.
Melva Davis (Away) Quail Valley (Home)
Tue. Apr. 28
4:00 p.m.
Thur. Apr. 23
Thur. Apr. 23 Silverado 3:15 p.m.
casa
4:30 p.m.
Thur. Apr. 30
4:00 p.m.
visitante
Laverne (Home) Yermo (Home)
Thur. Apr. 23 Silverado
3:15 p.m.
Tue. Apr. 28
4:30 p.m.
visitante
Tue. Apr. 28 Granite Hills 3:15 p.m.
3:15 p.m.
Thur. Apr. 30
4:30 p.m.
Thur. Apr. 30 Granite Hills 3:15 p.m.
3:15 p.m. casa
Golf de BHS
Tenis de BHS
Nota: Todos los partidos de béisbol de la categoría juvenil se juegan en el Barstow Sports Park, a menos que se indique lo contrario.
Fecha Oponentes Hora
Lugar
Fecha Oponentes Hora
Lugar
Muroc Lake
Thur. Apr. 2.
Granite Hills
Wed. Apr. 1 Cluster 6 11 a.m.
3 p.m. visitante
Mon. Apr. 6 Cluster 7 2 p.m.
MCLB Tue. Apr. 7 Adelanto 3 p.m casa
Mon. Apr. 13 Wed. Apr. 15 Mon. Apr. 20 Wed. Apr 22 Wed. Apr. 29
Apple Valley Green Tree
Victor Valley
Cluster 8 2 p.m.
Thur. Apr. 9
3 p.m. visitante
Tue. Apr. 14 Thur. Apr. 16 Tue. Apr. 21 Thur. Apr. 23 Wed. Apr. 29
Cluster 9 2 p.m.
AAE
3 p.m. casa
Cluster 10 2 p.m.
MCLB
Silverado 3 p.m. casa
Apple Valley
Granite Hills
Cluster 11 2 p.m.
3 p.m. casa
DSL Finals 10 a.m.
TBD
Adelanto 3 p.m. visitante
El equipo de béisbol de los Aztecs recibirá este mes a sus rivales de la Desert Sky League, las escuelas secundarias Victor Valley, Silverado y Granite Hills.
Victor Valley
DSL Finals 9 a.m.
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