Ukiah Unified School District (UUSD) is dedicated to providing a high-quality education for the nearly 6,000 students it serves annually. Most parents and community members experience the school district one teacher and one school at a time. It can be surprising to know that we have close to 1,000 dedicated staff members working across six elementary schools, two middle schools, a comprehensive high school, and several alternative education programs. These team members and their schools are a cornerstone of the community, committed to meeting the diverse needs of its families.
And, we see education as a journey we all take together. Teachers and parents working in support of students across a baker’s dozen years of transformative growth.
Freshman and Sophomore students bring the spirit to Ukiah High School’s homecoming rally. Events like these create lasting memories and strengthen school pride. (Photo by Dan Dougherty)Strategic priorities: focused on growth
UUSD’s community-developed strategic plan for 2024-2027 sets clear goals for student achievement, with a commitment to ensuring at least one year of academic growth annually for all students. To achieve this, the district is focused on six strategic priorities:
High-Quality Instruction and Support: By implementing research-based teaching practices and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), UUSD delivers engaging instruction tailored to the unique needs of each student. Metrics such as improved graduation rates and increased college and career readiness guide these efforts.
Supporting Multilingual Learners: UUSD prioritizes helping English language learners achieve English proficiency and master core academic standards. This includes targeted support to reclassify students as proficient in a timely manner and improve academic outcomes in secondary education.
Elevating Educator Expertise: Professional development is at the heart of UUSD’s mission to enhance teaching quality. Through collaborative Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) and targeted training in math and literacy, the district ensures educators are equipped to meet high standards. Research shows that highly effective teachers make the biggest difference in student learning. Our educators are committed to continuous improvement.
A brand-new Transitional Kindergarten classroom at Nokomis Elementary, one of several purpose-built classrooms opening across Ukiah Unified’s six elementary schools next school year. These spaces are designed to support early learning and foster student success. (Photo by Dan Dougherty)Fostering a Safe and Positive Environment: UUSD’s commitment to safety and well-being is evident in its efforts to reduce absenteeism, suspension rates, and dropout rates, while creating nurturing environments where students feel valued and secure. The number one goal for parents is a safe and caring learning environment for their children. And, we are in total agreement.
Strengthening Connections: Recognizing the importance of strong relationships, UUSD fosters positive staff-student connections to ensure every child feels a sense of belonging. Surveys indicate that students who feel supported are more likely to succeed both academically and socially.
Collaborative Partnerships: The district works closely with families, caregivers, and community partners to create a supportive network that enhances learning outcomes. Regular feedback from parents and caregivers helps guide the district’s efforts to meet the needs of its students.
A District built to serve families
UUSD operates a range of programs designed to support students at every stage of their educational journey. From transitional kindergarten to independent study options and adult learning centers, the district ensures that students of all ages and circumstances have access to the tools they need to succeed. For example, each year, the district provides more than one million meals to students, all at no-cost to students.
Eagle Peak Middle School band students practice their skills, building confidence and creativity through music education. The class exemplifies the district’s commitment to arts and enrichment programs. (Photo by Dan Dougherty)The district also emphasizes equity and inclusion, striving to create an environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive. This includes robust support for English language learners and specialized programs tailored to meet the needs of students with varying academic and social-emotional needs. Following the pandemic, the mental health of students became a top priority. Our schools have student success coordinators and counselors who work as part of the educational teams to help support the wellbeing of students.
Starting in the upcoming academic year, 2025-26, all of our Elementary schools will have new, tailor-made Transitional Kindergarten classrooms. These state-of-the art classrooms have the perfect amount of space, right-sized furnishings, private bathrooms, and natural light to help our youngest learners get off to the best start possible. Each classroom is limited to 20 students, with one certified teacher and one dedicated paraprofessional for a 10:1 student to adult ratio. Plus, the students have their own dedicated playgrounds with appropriate sized and fun play structures. The research is clear on early childhood education – students who start in Transitional Kindergarten fare better in school than those who don’t. If your child turns four before September 1, 2025, then they are eligible to register. Please register early as space is limited. Parents can register online or at their local school.
Delivering results for students and families
UUSD’s focus on academic excellence is reflected in its diverse range of programs. The district offers Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways, Advanced Placement (AP), and Dual Enrollment (DE) courses to prepare students for the challenges of college and career. Additionally, robust social-emotional learning initiatives equip students with the skills they need to navigate life’s challenges with confidence.
Each year, we’re graduating students that take positive steps towards their dreams as adults, whether they’re going right to work, enrolling in a school to develop a trade or skill, or enrolling in college – UUSD graduates have options!
These options exist because we strive to ensure that no child goes without the support they need to succeed. Our comprehensive approach extends to all areas of student life, from academics to athletics and extracurriculars, to health and wellness.
A Partnership for success
Education at UUSD is a collaborative journey, bringing together families, educators, and community members to support students’ success. We think of it as an EPIC Journey.
As we guide students toward excellence, we invite parents to visit our Open Houses to see firsthand the warm and supportive learning environments of Ukiah Unified Schools. Visit our website or contact your community school for Open House dates and times.
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