IUSD Insights

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IUSD Insights Masthead

​In this edition:

  • Final message from Superintendent Walker
  • Annual Survey now open
  • FAFSA 2025 updates and information

 

  • Planning for elective course selection
  • Explore open job positions
  • And more!
Message from the Superintendent 
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Collage of photos of Superintendent Walker through the years of his career

The Power of US: Reflecting on Our Journey Together

As I reflect on my time as Superintendent of the Irvine Unified School District, I am filled with immense gratitude and pride. It has been the honor of my lifetime to serve this extraordinary community—one that embodies the essence of collaboration, dedication, and excellence.

Since its inception, our district’s success has not been the result of a single person, group, or department – it is the collective efforts of our dedicated teachers and staff, engaged parents and families, talented students, and committed community partners, who are collectively the “US” at the center of IUSD. Together, we have built a foundation of adaptability and innovation that continues to make IUSD one of the highest-performing school districts in the state and nation.

To our teachers and staff, your tireless dedication to nurturing and educating our students is inspiring. Each lesson you plan, every moment you spend encouraging a student, and the countless hours you dedicate to refining your craft have a profound impact that goes far beyond the classroom. IUSD administrators, teachers, and staff are the driving force behind the success of our students and the heart of our district. Thank you for all you do to serve students and families each and every day.

To our parents and families, thank you for your commitment to supporting your children’s education and our schools. From late nights helping with homework to cheering on the sidelines, attending performances, and volunteering in classrooms, your engagement has not only supported your child but it has helped make a difference for your school communities.

As I draft this final message for IUSD Insights, I carry with me a deep appreciation for each of you and the work we have accomplished together. Thank you for the privilege to lead, learn from, and grow alongside you. IUSD will always hold a special place in my heart. More...

Insights Features
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Annual survey is now open with computer image

Annual Survey: Help Us Set Funding Priorities for Your Child’s Education

IUSD’s Annual Survey is open now through Monday, February 10. The Annual Survey tells us what is important to our families, students and staff, including but not limited to several key areas, such as teaching and learning, students’ social and educational experiences on campus (school climate), student successes and challenges, bullying, mental health and parent and family engagement. 

As part of the survey, you’ll be asked to share your school and child’s grade level. Please know that your responses are completely anonymous. This information simply allows us to better understand the unique needs of your school community.

Every survey response is reviewed by district and school staff, and your feedback is shared with the Board of Education. Your voice has a significant impact on identifying educational priorities that help determine funding and resources at your school(s) and districtwide. Please take a moment to complete the Annual Survey today!

Learn more…

Insights spotlights
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FAFSA Information

Do you know the new 2025-26 FAFSA updates that may impact funding for your student?

​Attention seniors and families: The U.S. Department of Education has made several changes to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to streamline the application process for students seeking financial aid. Key changes include:

A tool to help students determine which parent needs to provide financial information
A new "Student Aid Index" replaces the "Expected Family Contribution" to be more reflective of a family's actual ability to pay for college
All students and parents now need a Federal Student Aid ID to sign the FAFSA form electronically
Students and parents now complete their respective sections through "role-based" logins

The deadline to apply is March 3, 2025.

Seniors are encouraged to access and complete the FAFSA through CaliforniaColleges.edu, which simplifies the process, keeps applications organized, and ensures deadlines are met. Reach out to your school counselors for assistance! More...


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CTE pathway options

Plan your 2025-26 electives schedule with Career Technical Education

Elective course selection season is approaching, and although this time can be overwhelming for many students and families, we have outlined various course options that may be available at your school. Among these options are Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways, which offer an exciting opportunity to explore interests, gain real-world skills and prepare for future success. For those planning to attend a two or four-year college, CTE pathways can add an edge to applications by demonstrating commitment to a specific area of interest. Explore CTE pathways today! More...


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Science fair dates

The IUSD Annual Science Fair is Happening Now!

We are excited to announce the start of the 44th Annual Science Fair! This year’s fair, sponsored by the Irvine Public Schools Foundation in partnership with the Broadcom Foundation, is now live. The Science Fair features a variety of cutting-edge projects designed to tackle real-world challenges and explore scientific principles. The IUSD community is invited to view the projects online by visiting the Science Fair website. More...


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Three bin systems explanation and images of bins

Promote Campus Sustainability This New Year by Properly Sorting Your Trash!

As we begin the New Year and welcome our students back from winter break, we would like to remind our community about the three-bin waste sorting system to help keep our campus and planet clean. The system includes a bin for recycling, organics and landfill. More...

 

HR Corner

 

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We're Hiring text overlayed on photo of teacher talking to student

We’re Hiring–Explore open positions!

We are hiring dedicated individuals to join our team as Instructional Assistants, Nutrition Services staff and Custodians—each playing a vital role in supporting the success and well-being of our students. IUSD offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package, including paid sick leave, holidays and vacation time. If you’re ready to make a difference, apply today! More...
 

Speak up, We Care
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Notebook with "2025 Goals" written on it

 New Year, New Goals: Setting Realistic Goals

Many people set goals for themselves at the start of the New Year—whether academic, personal or family-focused. To establish realistic goals for 2025, start small and ask yourself why the goal is important to clarify your purpose and maintain motivation. Use the SMART framework to structure your goals: make them Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-based. Remember to be kind to yourself if setbacks occur. View them as opportunities to adapt or pivot as needed. More...

News around the district
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News graphics in a collage

In case you missed it, the following is news from around the District!  Throughout each month IUSD Communications posts the latest District news and information in the News Center section of iusd.org. Please check this site regularly or follow us on FacebookInstagram and Tik Tok.