COMMUNITY CONNECT MAY 2026| VOLUME 6 | EDITION 10
Official Newsletter of the Placer Union High School District My years in PUHSD as a student, a parent, and an employee have made me realize the value of this incredible District. As a community member, I will continue to contribute to ensure our schools remain a place where students, staff, and families can thrive. Goodbye and thank you for a remarkable journey. PUHSD Proud, AND THANK YOU... This feels completely surreal; I can hardly believe this is my last newsletter. What a privilege this journey has been. While not every communication I've crafted over the years has been celebratory, they have all been infused with empathy, in collaboration with remarkable teams, and supported by a community that genuinely cares—for this, I am profoundly grateful. Each edition of this newsletter has been a testament to the strength and resilience of our District, and I have cherished every moment of being your voice. As I prepare to step away and enjoy retirement, I am filled with appreciation for the opportunities I’ve been given, the friendships I’ve forged, and the lessons I’ve learned. It has been an honor to witness the growth and achievements of our students and staff. Remember, each of you plays a crucial role in shaping the future, and it is your collective spirit that will continue to illuminate the path ahead. Keep striving for excellence, supporting one another, and nurturing what makes our District special.
May Board Meeting Tuesday - May 19, 2026 5:30 pm RVO Meeting Room 13000 New Airport Road | Auburn
Sarah Rath, Communications Officer Sarah Rath
Superintendent Message
Welcome to the final month of this school year!!! That, in and of itself, is completely crazy to me! A year ago, I was going through the process and final steps of realizing my life was headed in a completely new direction...a new puppy (yes, she has given us a run for our money), a new home, and serving new communities. And, although it seems like yesterday, I have had so many incredible experiences since then. As we approach the end of this academic year, I can't help but reflect on the journey we've all shared. This year has been filled with challenges and triumphs, learning and growth. We've celebrated achievements, supported each other through difficulties, and built memories that will last a lifetime. I am immensely proud of the dedication and resilience
shown by both our students and staff.
Not only am I wishing the Class of 2026 a fond farewell as my ‘first’ graduating class working for this District, but I am also getting the privilege of celebrating over 39 employees as they leave public service and enjoy well-deserved retirements. Their contributions have been invaluable, and their impact will be felt for years to come. I feel truly fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from them. Thank you all. To our teachers and staff, your hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. Your commitment to providing quality education and nurturing a positive environment for our students is truly inspiring. As we wrap up this year, I hope you take some time to relax and recharge, knowing the profound difference you've made. To our students, continue to dream big and strive for excellence. Your potential is limitless, and I have no doubt you will achieve great things. Remember, the end of the school year is not just a conclusion but a new beginning. Embrace it with open hearts and minds. Let's cherish these last few weeks, embracing every moment with enthusiasm and gratitude. Whether you're preparing for graduation, looking forward to summer adventures, or planning for next year, remember that each step you take is shaping your future.
Thank you for being an essential part of this District. I’m excited to see what the future holds for each of you.
Here's to a remarkable finish and an even brighter future ahead.
Congratulations Class of 2026
Tom Thank You & HAVE A GREAT SUMMER!!
2025-2026 Teachers Who Make A Difference
Haley Biles Colfax High School
Keith Powers Del Oro High School
Izzy Watson Del Oro High School
Nate Swesey Confluence High School
Christina Nokes Foresthill High School
Joanie Lutz Maidu Virtual Charter Academy
Katy Fries Placer High School Laurel Raymore Placer School for Adults Well Deserved!! Tracy Rohde Placer High School Honorees will be recognized at a reception this month hosted by the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA).
The California Department of Education (CDE) has curated a monthly list of items to celebrate. In May, we recognize numerous school personnel for their contributions. We invite you to join us in expressing gratitude and honoring these individuals who play a crucial role in creating environments where our students can learn, grow, and flourish.
School Principals Day (5/1/2026) The CDE encourages you to annually recognize May 1 as School Principals Day. School Lunch Hero Day (5/1/2026) The CDE encourages you to recognize May 1, 2026, as School Lunch Hero Day. School Lunch Hero Day is celebrated annually on the first Friday in May. National Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4-8, 2026) The CDE encourages you to recognize May 4-8, 2026, as National Teacher Appreciation Week. Teacher Appreciation Week is celebrated during the first full week of May each year. National Teacher Appreciation Day (5/5/2026) The CDE encourages you to recognize May 5, 2026, as National Teacher Appreciation Day. National Teacher Appreciation Day, also known as National Teacher Day, is observed on Tuesday during Teacher Appreciation Week. National School Nurse Day (5/6/2026) The CDE encourages you to recognize May 6, 2026, as National School Nurse Day.
California Day of the Teacher (5/13/2026) The CDE encourages you to recognize May 13, 2026, as California Day of the Teacher. California Day of the Teacher, celebrated on the second Wednesday of May, arose out of legislation co- sponsored by the California Teachers Association and the Association of Mexican American Educators. Senator Joseph Montoya wrote the bill, which was adopted in 1982. California has patterned its celebration after the traditional El Dia del Maestro festivities observed in Mexico and other Latin American countries. California Student Mental Health Week (May 13-19, 2026) The CDE encourages you to recognize May 13-19, 2026, as California Student Mental Health Week. National Speech Pathologist Day (5/18/2026) The CDE encourages you to annually recognize May 18 as National Speech Pathologist Day. In 2010, the United States dedicated May 18th as ‘National Speech Pathologist Day'. Classified School Employee Week (May 17-23, 2026) The CDE encourages you to recognize May 17-23, 2026, as Classified School Employee Week. Classified School Employee Week is celebrated on the third full week in May each year, from Sunday to Saturday.
All of our District/School websites are getting a make- over, and we couldn't be more excited to share the new look with you! As a District that uses ParentSquare for our communications, we have partnered with them to host our websites using ‘Smart Sites’, which will streamline many of the messaging and information sent out to our communities.
NEW DISTRICT & SCHOOL WEBSITES COMING SOON!
Our goal is to create a user-friendly and engaging online experience that reflects the vibrant spirit of our schools and community. The updated websites will feature improved navigation, updated content, and enhanced accessibility to ensure everyone can easily find the information they need.
Until the launch date (planned for July 1, 2026), please continue to monitor information on current webpages and through messaging from the District/Schools via ParentSquare. If you haven’t
already done so, please download the ParentSquare app to enhance your communication experience! Once you have registered your account, you can customize settings for language, notifications, and more!
Stay In Touch!
We ’ re all here for the students because that ’ s...
The
P INT
SEAS N 3 Episode #1 (25-26) ~ Welcome Back!! Episode #2 (25-26) ~ Clubs on Campuses Episode #3 (25-26) ~ College Visits & More! Episode #4 (25-26) ~ Maidu Virtual Charter Academy Episode #5 (25-26) ~ Reflection on Fall 2025 Term Episode #6 (25-26) ~ Career Technical Education (CTE) Episode #7 (25-26) ~ Music in Our Schools
Follow us on Spotify
Episode #8 (25-26) ~ Performing Arts
Final Episode (25-26) ~ Reflection of the Year
E- B I
K E S
Readiness Workforce
Workforce Readiness Week (April 27 - May 1) in California. “The chief goals of the new law are to prepare students to enter the workforce knowing their rights as young workers, enable minors to recognize when they are encountering illegal labor practices and unsafe working conditions and to self-advocate when necessary to protect themselves, create awareness of the power of unions to protect labor rights and the right to organize, and inform students of the benefits and opportunities provided by state-approved apprenticeships.”
PUHSD & CTE
On Friday, April 10th, Dr. Steve Caminiti, the Deputy Superintendent of PUHSD, hosted a Career Technical Education (CTE) Business Partners Luncheon. This event welcomed individuals from across our communities to discuss their respective industries and share insights. The gathering provided a unique opportunity for students, educators, and business leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue about the evolving job market and the skills required for future success. Attendees were encouraged to collaborate on strategies to enhance career readiness. Our industry partners gave valuable feedback to the District on what current job skills are relevant in their sectors. Dr. Caminiti emphasized the importance of partnerships between schools and industries, highlighting how these collaborations can bridge the gap between education and employment.
From the desk of Crystal Eatherton, Director Child Nutrition Services Department
OUT & ABOUT IN THE DISTRICT
“Water – Every Which Way” Whether running or reflective, still or crashing, frozen, falling, or misting — capturing water in all its forms is one of watercolor’s greatest challenges. Students rose to this challenge for both their own benefit and the enjoyment of our community. To showcase the work from Sonja Hamilton’s Intermediate/Advanced watercolor classes at Placer School for Adults, students’ artwork will be on display at an upcoming exhibit. The school offers both in-classroom teaching as well as online learning as part of the Enrichment programs they offer. Below are paintings from online students Tiffany Segel and Betty Johnson.
“Fontana Nella Piazza”,Tiffany Segel
“Avoiding Puddles”, Betty Johnson
The exhibit will be from May 1 to June 30, 2026, for the public to enjoy at:
Tango Frozen Yogurt 940 Lincoln Way, Auburn, CA
We hope you’ll stop by to check out the incredible work of these individuals.
Exhibiting Students: Jeff Anstrom, Dick Cerruti, Lois Granstrom, Beverly Heinze, Jan Hinds, Liz Honeycutt, Lorna Ingram, Betty Johnson, Kathy Maddox, Charlene Messner, Rose Oates, Dave Petersen, Renee Regacho-Anaclerio, Kathleen Ritchie, Tiffany Segel, Barbara This, Jan Wechsler, and Sonja Hamilton, Instructor.
For additional class information, call Placer School for Adults, 530-885-8585.
CHOOL BUDGETS
ANNUAL BUDGET CYCLE The mandated budget cycle for school districts and the constitutional cycle for the State have various deadlines throughout the year, and unfortunately, these deadlines are never in alignment. While the Governor proposes budgets at the State level, the State Legislature is part of the process as well. Throughout the entire process, the Legislature will negotiate priorities with the Governor because both entities must be in agreement for the actual State Budget to pass. By January 10th each year, the Governor has a constitutional obligation to present his budget proposal for the upcoming fiscal year. School districts use this proposal to begin budgeting for the upcoming fiscal year, and sometimes, that process includes teacher and staff reductions. These reductions by law must happen by March 15th. By May 14th, the Governor is constitutionally required to present a May revision. At this point in the year, most Californians have completed their taxes, and the Governor can better plan based on actual State revenues and has a better idea of what the priorities of the legislature are. The May revision is what school districts use to propose their official budgets. Around mid-June, school districts hold public hearings on their budget proposals, and after input has been received, the official budget is considered by their School Boards seven days later. After the May revision is published, the Legislature has a constitutional duty to pass a Budget Bill itemizing expenditures by June 15th. This Budget Bill has been a work in progress since early February, ensuring the Governor and Legislature are on the same page for enactment of the new budget. If the legislature fails to provide the budget by June 15th, they forfeit pay until the Budget Bill is finished. Although school districts have already adopted their budgets by the Legislature’s deadline, they will complete a 45-day budget adjustment in mid-July. The foregoing is an excerpt from a Yucaipa-Calimesa Joint Unified School District Article - Public School Funding in California
PUHSD follows this budget cycle and is awaiting the May Revise by the State to prepare for our 2026-2027 Budget. Our LCAP Community Meeting is scheduled for May 20, 2026, and we welcome all of our educational partners.
For more information about the District’s budget, please visit our dedicated webpage:
Business Department (Scroll to Budget Information)
Graduation Information
SCHOOL
DATE
TIME/LOCATION
7:00pm Parkside Church 3885 Richardson Drive, Auburn
Placer School for Adults
June 4, 2026
5:00 pm Placer HS Auditorium
Maidu Virtual Charter Academy
May 28, 2026
Confluence High School
6:30 pm Placer HS Auditorium
May 28, 2026
8:00 am Tony Martello Stadium
Colfax High School
May 30, 2026
Confluence West/Del Oro High School
8:00 am Del Oro Golden Eagle Stadium
May 30, 2026
Foresthill High School
9:00 am Sebastian Stadium
May 30, 2026
8:00 am LeFebvre Stadium
Placer High School
May 30, 2026
Please watch for information from each site with details about Graduation.
2026-2027 School Year
CHECK SITE CALENDARS FOR MINIMUM DAYS. EACH SITE’S MINIMUM DAYS VARY BASED ON EVENTS, NEEDS, ETC. SITE CALENDARS WILL BE AVAILABLE ON OR BEFORE THE START OF SCHOOL. SUMMER STUFF
Monitor current websites until notified (via Parent Square) of the new site launch. Student Schedules will be available after Data Confirmation is completed (late July). You will be notified about Data Confirmation. If participating in Fall Sports, be sure to monitor information for athletic clearance and summer schedules. Working during the Summer? See the information in the graphic on how to obtain a Work Permit.
Great job Class of 2026!!! Looking forward to hearing about your future successes!!!
Congratulations and best wishes to all of our Retirees!!! Go have some fun!
Thank You PUHSD Staff & Communities! Enjoy the rest of the school year and have a fantastic Summer break! ~ Sarah
13000 New Airport Road Auburn, CA 95603 Phone: 530.886.4400 Fax: 530.886.4449 Placer Union High School District
LET’S connect
The Placer Union High School District (PUHSD) is committed to ensuring equal, fair, and meaningful access to employment and education services and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. PUHSD understands and will address the intersectionality of identities and how they can lead to unique forms of discrimination or harassment. PUHSD prohibits discrimination, harassment (including sexual harassment), intimidation, or bullying in any employment practice, education program, or educational activity on the basis and/or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics of age, ancestry, color, ethnic group identification, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical information, national origin, disability, parental status, political affiliation, pregnancy and related conditions, race, religion, retaliation, sex, sexual orientation, military or veterans status, homelessness, foster status, or any other basis prohibited by California state and federal nondiscrimination laws consistent with Education Code 200 and 220, Government Code 11135, and Title IX. If you believe you have been subjected to discrimination, harassment (including sexual harassment), intimidation, or bullying, you should contact Title IX Coordinator (Students) Steve Caminiti, 13000 New Airport Road, Auburn, 530.886.4402, scaminiti@puhsd.k12.ca.us; Title II (Students) and Section 504 Coordinator Carrie Warda, 13000 New Airport Road, Auburn, 530.886.4433, cwarda@puhsd.k12.ca.us; and/or Title IX and Title II Coordinator (Staff) Elena DalFavero, 13000 New Airport Road, Auburn, 530.886.4426, edalfavero@puhsd.k12.ca.us.
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