Monterey County Office of Education

MCOE’s Infrastructure Team, including Network Systems Engineers Francisco “Frank” Garcia, Jonathan Schneider, and Ugendra Raj from the Information Technology Services Department have demonstrated outstanding dedication and expertise, earning them each the well-deserved recognition as Employee of the Month. Their exceptional performance in the recent Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Cybersecurity Penetration Test placed the organization among the top 10% nationwide for cybersecurity resilience. This achievement is not just a reflection of the test results but a testament to the ongoing, proactive efforts dedicated to safeguarding data. Through continuous investment in security measures, rigorous monitoring, and a commitment to best practices, this team has set a benchmark for protecting our network. Out of more than 60 tests conducted by the assigned CISA team, only three other organizations have successfully prevented full domain administration access. MCOE is now among them, thanks to our Infrastructure Team’s proactive approach and strong security measures. Beyond this technical achievement, the CISA team was particularly impressed by the Infrastructure Team’s curiosity about the testing process and the willingness to use the findings for improvement. Despite MCOE’s Infrastructure Team being a relatively small group, they accomplished what many larger organizations have struggled to achieve. Their expertise and commitment not only protect MCOE but also serve as a model of excellence. Congratulations to the MCOE Infrastructure Team on this well-earned recognition!

School communicators from across California gathered in San Diego for the annual California Association of School Public Relations (CalSPRA) Conference. The event brought together education professionals to exchange ideas, explore innovative communication strategies, and learn about emerging tools and trends to enhance school communications. Through a variety of workshops, breakout sessions, keynote presentations, and networking opportunities, attendees deepened their expertise and built stronger professional connections across the state. A standout moment of the conference was the celebration of excellence in school communications. Monterey County was proudly represented, with the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District (MPUSD) Communications team earning two Awards of Merit—one for their Bond Dollars at Work newsletter and another for their engaging Preschool Registration Reel. The honored team included Chief of Communications Marci McFadden, Communications Specialist Marissa Schwartz, and Administrative Assistant and Graphic Designer Isai Ogarrio-Martinez. Their recognition underscores the team’s creativity and commitment to keeping families and communities informed. In addition, Salinas Union High School District’s (SUHSD) Communications and Public Relations Officer, Sitem Aytar, was honored with the prestigious Rising Star Award. This award celebrates early-career professionals who demonstrate exceptional promise and dedication to improving school communications. Aytar was recognized for her outstanding efforts to connect with students, families, staff, and administrators and elevate the district’s communication practices. CalSPRA, a nationally recognized leader in school communications, supports more than 850 members from school districts and county offices of all sizes. The organization is dedicated to advancing the field of school public relations through professional development, training, and the sharing of best practices. Each year, CalSPRA’s Excellence in Communication Awards showcase the impactful work of school communicators who are making a difference in education. Monterey County’s success at this year’s conference highlights the region’s ongoing commitment to clear, transparent, and effective communication. These efforts help build trust, strengthen school communities, and support student achievement. Congratulations to all the honorees on their well-earned recognition!

The Monterey County School Boards Association (MCSBA) remains committed to ensuring a high-quality education for every student through advocacy, education, and outreach. As part of this mission, the MCSBA hosted its fifth school board member session of the school year on the critical topic of Local Control Accountability Plans (LCAP) and the intricacies of school budgeting. This comprehensive training provided school board members with an in-depth understanding of the LCAP process, equipping them with the knowledge needed to ensure transparency, accountability, and strategic planning in their districts. The session fostered dynamic discussions on best practices, compliance requirements, and strategies to engage families, educators, and community members in the development of these plans. Participants also examined the complexities of school funding, and resource maximization strategies that align financial decisions with long-term student achievement goals. Through these informative sessions, the MCSBA continues to empower school board members with the tools and knowledge necessary to make informed, student-centered decisions that enhance educational outcomes for all students in Monterey County.

In March, Monterey County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deneen Guss, along with County Superintendents from across California, traveled to Sacramento to meet with legislators about critical educational needs. There, they met with state leaders and legislative staff to advocate for continued investment in programs essential to student success and the sustainability of key educational initiatives. During these discussions, Dr. Guss emphasized the need for ongoing support for programs such as Community Schools, Early Learning Programs, the Migrant Education Program, Title I funding, and Student Nutritional Services. Many of these initiatives rely on federal and state funding allocated through county offices and play a vital role in supporting Monterey County students. By working closely with policymakers, Dr. Guss reinforced the needs of public education in Monterey County and across the state.

Monterey County Office of Education (MCOE) Communications and Public Relations Officer Teri Pimentel visited Pacific Grove High School to introduce students to the Gladeo Monterey County career navigation platform. This innovative tool, developed as part of the Monterey County Board of Education's ongoing commitment to career readiness and student success, is designed to help students explore career pathways, discover educational opportunities, and explore diverse opportunities within our region and beyond. The Gladeo platform aligns with the County Board's goal of enhancing career exploration resources, ensuring students have the tools they need to make informed decisions about their futures. By offering a dynamic, interactive approach to career discovery, Gladeo Monterey County empowers students to see the vast opportunities available to them beyond high school. During the school’s lunch period, Mrs. Pimentel hosted an interactive information table in the library, allowing students to explore the platform firsthand. She also delivered a formal presentation showcasing the tool’s features, including career exploration videos, job market insights, and personalized career matching. MCOE is excited to bring this engaging and informative resource to students and looks forward to empowering the next generation of professionals. To learn more and explore Gladeo Monterey County, visit mcoe.gladeo.org.

Each year, thousands of Monterey County third-grade students step into the world of agriculture through Farm Day events in Salinas, King City, and Monterey. Hosted by Monterey County Agricultural Education, this hands-on learning experience connects students with the industry that sustains our communities. Elementary students from the Monterey Peninsula gathered at the Monterey Fairgrounds for an unforgettable day of discovery. Farm Day brings together local agricultural businesses to showcase their industry, offering interactive exhibits on food safety, processing, recycling, and cutting-edge agricultural technology. Students explore the journey of food from farm to table while engaging in hands-on learning about farming and healthy eating. One of the most anticipated moments of the day is the chance to experience farm animals up close, sparking curiosity and joy among the young learners. Monterey County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deneen Guss attended the event, showing her support for agricultural education and engaging with students as they explored the exhibits. A dedicated group of Monterey County Office of Education (MCOE) employees also volunteered their time, embodying MCOE’s commitment to hands-on learning and student engagement. Their enthusiasm and willingness to serve ensured a meaningful and enriching experience for students, reinforcing the connection between classroom learning and real-world applications. Monterey County Agricultural Education, a nonprofit organization of agriculturalists, educators, and dedicated community members, has championed agricultural awareness since the mid-1980s. Recognized at local, state, and national levels, the program exemplifies the power of collaboration between businesses, industry leaders, and volunteers to enhance education. Farm Day continues to inspire students, broadening their understanding of agriculture’s vital role in their daily lives while celebrating Monterey County’s rich farming heritage.

Monterey County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deneen Guss and Deputy Superintendent Dr. Ralph Porras visited San Antonio Union School District (SAUSD) and San Ardo Union Elementary School District (SAUESD), two small districts in South Monterey County. The visit was part of the Monterey County Office of Education’s (MCOE) ongoing efforts to better understand the needs of rural small schools and enhance support for students and educators. At SAUSD, the tour featured a newly remodeled kitchen designed to support the district’s innovative Scratch Kitchen initiative, which focuses on preparing nutritious meals from fresh, whole ingredients to enhance students' health and cognitive development. Meanwhile, at SAUESD, Dr. Guss and Dr. Porras observed young students actively engaging in phonemic awareness activities, a key reading intervention strategy that strengthens early literacy skills. This hands-on approach reflects the district’s deep commitment to fostering strong foundational reading abilities. With Dr. Guss taking part in a legislative trip to the California State Capitol days following, the visits provided an opportunity to gather firsthand insights on local challenges and advocate for needed resources with state legislators. During their time at these two school sites, Dr. Guss met with district leaders, including SAUSD Superintendent Amy Sweet and SAUESD Superintendent Dr. Catherine Reimer, to discuss both the successes and challenges their schools face. These discussions offered valuable perspectives on the support and policies necessary to address key issues. These visits reaffirm MCOE’s commitment to advocating for and supporting all schools in Monterey County, ensuring that every student has access to high-quality education and essential resources.

After an intense competition filled with tricky words and impressive focus, Monterey County has a new spelling champion! Seren Kim, a 6th grade student from La Mesa Elementary School in the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District, outspelled 23 other middle school students to take first place in the Countywide Spelling Bee held on Saturday, March 1 at the Monterey County Office of Education. Seren secured the championship title by correctly spelling the winning word: bibliopegist. With this victory, she earned the opportunity to represent Monterey County at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C., from May 26 to May 30. Thanks to generous community sponsors Seren and a parent will have their airfare and expenses covered. In addition to this incredible honor, Seren received a Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary and a one-year subscription from Merriam-Webster, a one-year membership to Britannica Online Premium, the Samuel Louis Sugarman Award, a six-night stay at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center during Bee Week, and a $300 cash prize on behalf of the Monterey County Office of Education's community partners. The competition also recognized the outstanding efforts of the second finisher Charlotte Beiderwell, a 7th-grade student from Carmel Middle School in the Carmel Unified School District and third-place finisher Laia Davis-Santos, an 8th-grade student from Santa Catalina School. These top finishers received cash prizes and a Merriam-Webster dictionary. Additionally, all of the student participants walked away with a good bag filled with fun items. A heartfelt thank you to the parents, school coaches, and educators who guided and encouraged these students along their spelling journey. Their dedication and support helped each competitor achieve the honor of being the top speller at their middle school, a remarkable accomplishment that reflects their hard work and perseverance.  A special thank you to our community partners, including the Boys & Girls Club of Monterey County, Read to Me Project, and Monterey County Free Libraries for their support in making this event a success. MCOE sends its warmest congratulations to all the participants for their dedication and hard work.

The 2024-2025 Inside Education Monterey County Cohort will host its next tour on Friday, March 21. Guests who sign up to experience this unique hands-on experience will dive deep into the topic of Science and the Arts in Monterey County schools. Inside Education Monterey County provides participants with a first-hand, interactive look at local educational programs, services, and partnerships. Each half-day session focuses on a specific theme/curricular area and includes site visits. The program is free to participants, with two more tours remaining. To register to join the next Inside Education Monterey County tour, visit https://lnkd.in/gSGCftfV.

Community College and Career Fair! Explore a world of possibilities! Connect with representatives from local colleges and universities, gain valuable insights, and discover opportunities to shape your academic journey and future career. Learn about scholarships, financial aid, and programs designed to help you succeed. This event is open to the public, and all Monterey County students are invited to attend. Join us on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the National Steinbeck Center, 1 Main Street, Salinas. For more information, call 831-755-0300 ext. 1004 or email aferguson@montereycoe.org.