State Superintendent Tony Thurmond Welcomes Salinas Students Back to Campus, Celebrates Community Schools

SALINAS—State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond visited Salinas High School in the Salinas Union High School District and Boronda Meadows Elementary School in the Salinas City Elementary School District today to highlight the back-to-school season and the importance of literacy and whole-child education.

“I’m also proud to see the work Salinas High and Boronda Meadows Elementary are doing as community schools. I have championed community schools across California because we know students do their best when we support the whole child academically, socially, emotionally, and physically,” said Superintendent Thurmond. “That means strong instruction in the classroom, but it also means making sure students and families have access to the support and opportunities they need to thrive.”

At Salinas High, he visited a classroom and connected with students and educators. At Boronda Meadows Elementary, Superintendent Thurmond read to third-grade students and met with student leaders.

Both schools participate in the California Community Schools Partnership Program (CCSPP)—a groundbreaking, $4.1 billion initiative and the largest of its kind in the nation—designed to eliminate barriers to learning and ensure equitable outcomes for all students. Community schools serve as neighborhood hubs, connecting educators, school staff, families, and local partners to support students’ academic and social–emotional needs. By offering integrated services, such as mental and physical health care, academic support, social services, and after school enrichment, community schools create environments where all students can thrive.

For more information on community schools, see the California Community Schools Partnership Program web page.

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Tony Thurmond — State Superintendent of Public Instruction
Communications Division, Room 5602, 916-319-0818, Fax 916-319-0100