Forest Hill Elementary School

District News

Updated Wed, Jun 11th

Students, staff and families celebrated achievements this week, as we completed another school year together. 

As we wrap up the school year, I want to thank you—our families—for your partnership, support, and trust. This has been a year of growth and achievement, and we’re proud of all our students, especially those moving on to middle or high school.

To our staff, thank you for nurturing both the minds and hearts of our students. And to our students—keep building on the lessons you’ve learned. The competencies we focus on—self-direction, critical thinking, collaboration, innovation, and empathy—will guide you in whatever comes next.

Wishing you all a safe and joyful summer!

Sincerely,

Dr. Shelly Viramontez, Superintendent

Updated Wed, Jun 11th

As summer begins, online safety shifts from school-based protections to home-based supervision, because our administrators will also be enjoying a bit of time off. While students can still log into Clever and other learning apps using personal devices, district internet filters and safety tools like Gaggle will not be active.

Additionally, take-home Chromebooks assigned to students in grades 6–8 will be disabled for the summer and reactivated before school resumes on August 20, 2025.

We encourage families to stay involved in their children’s digital lives:

  • Actively supervise online activity
  • Set tech-free zones and time limits
  • Foster in-person connections and model good digital behavior

Helpful Resources for Families

Together, we can help students build safe and responsible online habits—at school and at home.

Updated Wed, Jun 11th

To help students retain their math and literacy skills over the summer, Campbell Union School District offers a variety of free resources for families. Visit our Help at Home web page for tools, tips, and activities you can do with your child that support learning in fun and engaging ways. 

Updated Thu, Jun 5th

Thanks to the generosity of Friends of the Heritage Theatre, more Campbell Union School District students will have the opportunity to shine on a professional stage next year.

Through a new partnership with the district, Friends of the Heritage Theatre is providing up to $10,000 to help two upper-grades productions—Rolling Hills Middle School’s winter show and a joint spring production by Monroe Middle School and Campbell School of Innovation—take the stage at the historic Campbell Heritage Theatre during the 2025–26 season.

In addition to supporting production costs, the organization has created a $5,000 scholarship fund to help cover student participation fees, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to being part of the experience.

“This collaboration enhances our arts programs and creates lasting memories, enriching our students’ educational journey,” said Martha de Ojeda, Director of Expanded Learning. “We are deeply grateful for their commitment to our students and community.”

The Friends of the Heritage Theatre raise funds through tax-deductible donations from the community and concession sales during the theatre’s regular season events. Their support helps bring the arts to life for the next generation of performers.

Updated Thu, Jun 5th

Campbell Union School District is helping children stay nourished and engaged all summer long!

Free Summer Meals
From June 23 to August 1 (closed July 4), children 18 and younger can enjoy a free lunch through the Seamless Summer Meals program.
Lynhaven Elementary, 881 S. Cypress Ave., San Jose
11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
No ID or school enrollment is required—just come by and enjoy a healthy meal on site.

Read, Watch, Listen, Learn
Every CUSD student also has a free library account through the Santa Clara County Library District. They can explore thousands of books, audiobooks, videos, and more—perfect for summer learning and fun!

Questions about summer meals?
408-341-7210 | Food [at] Campbellusd.org

Updated Thu, Jun 12th

Nearly 300 people attended the May 22nd celebration where we recognized the outstanding individuals whose dedication and impact truly stood out this year. Each school’s administrator presented their 2024-25 Teacher of the Year, Classified Employee of the Year, and Volunteer of the Year, describing their contributions to their school community. 

With so many exceptional nominees, it wasn’t easy for the District leadership to choose just one person for each category—but three individuals rose to the top to represent our entire district this year.

  • District Volunteer of the Year: Kathy Hawkes, Village School
    For more than a decade, Kathy has given her time and energy in countless ways—from field trip coordination to leading the PTA. Her inclusive leadership and strong partnerships with staff and families have helped create a connected, welcoming school community.
  • District Classified Employee of the Year: Diana Duarte, Capri Elementary
    As a Behavior Specialist, Diana plays a vital role in supporting students and staff. Her calm, practical approach and unwavering dedication foster growth, resilience, and a “we can” spirit throughout the school.
  • District Teacher of the Year: Pati Curiel, Blackford Elementary
    With over 30 years in CUSD, Pati has built a classroom where students feel seen, supported, and challenged. Her passion for education and commitment to student success make her a standout educator and leader.

The Superintendent also acknowledged two school administrators—Melissa Rojek and Sarah Williams— for receiving Administrator of the Year awards from the local chapter of the Association of California School Administrators.

Please join us in congratulating these exceptional professionals for their outstanding contributions to our schools and community!

Updated Thu, Jun 5th

At its May 15th meeting, the Campbell Union School District (CUSD) Governing Board joined with employee organizations CETA and CSEA to unanimously adopt a resolution reaffirming our commitment to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for every student—regardless of immigration status.

“We want to ensure all of our students are welcomed and feel a sense of belonging, and we want to protect our students’ privacy and rights,” said Superintendent Shelly Viramontez.

The joint resolution reflects the united efforts of our Board, teachers, classified staff, and administrators to ensure that all children feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed in school and life. View the full resolution.

Updated Thu, Jun 5th

“When I walk through a TK or kindergarten classroom, I think, ‘What in the world will these young people be walking into in the 2045 workforce?’” said Campbell Union School District (CUSD) Superintendent Shelly Viramontez. “A few years ago, we thought access to technology was the digital divide. The new divide will be between students who can leverage AI tools and those who have never had exposure to them.”

As part of an ongoing effort to prepare students for the future, CUSD is carefully exploring how artificial intelligence (AI) can support teaching and learning.

While AI is not yet in widespread use across our schools, the district has been testing select tools in limited and monitored settings. For example, at the May 15 Board meeting, Math Specialist Cheryl Lee shared results from a pilot using two AI-supported tools—Magma Math and Khanmigo—to enhance math learning. Based on student progress and teacher feedback, the district will move forward with Magma Math, introducing it to 4th–8th grade teachers to support instruction and develop a set of standards-aligned assessments.

District leaders emphasize that AI will be used to support teachers, allowing them to focus on high-impact activities such as small-group instruction and individualized feedback.

“AI will not be a one-and-done initiative,” said Superintendent Viramontez. “This will be an ongoing, thoughtful process to equip students with the tools and experiences they’ll need for the future.” Click here to see the video: Leveraging AI as a Tool for Teaching and Learning.

Updated Wed, May 28th

Behind every student’s success is a team of dedicated professionals and volunteers working together to create safe, welcoming, and enriching schools. The commitment, care, and teamwork that each contributes plays a vital role in helping students learn and thrive.

That's why the Campbell Union School District Governing Board brings it all together with Employee Appreciation Week, May 19-23. 

Throughout the year, we take time to recognize the many individuals who contribute to our schools in meaningful ways—from teachers, counselors and paraprofessionals to office staff, custodians, bus drivers, volunteers, and so many others. Employee Appreciation Week is a districtwide opportunity to show gratitude for ALL of the people who make CUSD a great place to work and a great place to learn. 

As part of the celebration, the District will host its annual recognition event to honor the Teachers of the Year, Classified Staff of the Year, Volunteers of the Year, and Administrators of the Year for their outstanding service during the 2024–25 school year.

These people, together with our families and community partners, make a difference in the lives of our students every day.

Updated Tue, May 20th

“In an effort to give our students the support and care they need to be successful in school and life, we are committed to addressing the needs of the whole child,” said Superintendent Shelly Viramontez. “Our teachers incorporate social-emotional learning and regulation into daily instruction, provide calm corners in classrooms, and work with counselors and staff to support our students experiencing a challenge or needing help managing their big feelings.”  

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re highlighting how we prioritize student well-being every day of the year..

“Our partnerships with local organizations help connect our students to vital resources—medical care, counseling, emergency housing, food programs, and more,” said Veronica Gutierrez, Supervisor of School Linked Services. District administrators, nurses, and Community Liaisons collaborate closely with families to access support from our health and wellness partners.

Expanding Wellness Center Access

The Wellness Center at Monroe Middle School—launched in 2021 in partnership with the Santa Clara County Office of Education—has become a successful model for student support. Since then, the District has been building on that success, expanding its support through partnerships with the Seneca Family of Agencies and a grant obtained to fund Wellness Coaches.

This year, Sherman Oaks opened a Wellness Center under the leadership of School Counselor Yesenia Marquez. “I saw how much our students carry—stress, pressure, and sometimes silence,” she said. “I wanted to create a space where they feel safe, accepted, and heard—a space that says, ‘You matter, and your well-being matters.’”

Our model is now expanding to Blackford, with services provided by CUSD Counselor Leah Adams, a Wellness Coach, and San Jose State University interns. “While all classrooms have Calm Kits, some students need extra time or adult support to reset,” Adams said. “We help them regulate emotions and return to class ready to learn.”