Superintendent's Update - December 5, 2025

From the Office of the Superintendent

Board Agenda Calendar

View Calendar of Board Items 2025-26

Superintendent Austin’s Message . . .

I just completed a conference with our Board of Education to learn more about issues affecting school districts across the state. It is also a yearly opportunity to calibrate with other superintendents and school board members representing nearly 1,000 school districts. Common topics included massive staff reductions, budget cuts, labor strikes, school closures, and growing achievement gaps. 

Sometimes we just had to put our heads down and be quiet. Palo Alto is fortunate to have very different and favorable conditions. It’s easy to lose perspective until we have face-to-face conversations with our colleagues from other places.  We will also read soon that some of the things I mentioned above will be impacting our neighbors. This includes places that have traditionally been immune to these issues. In short, it was a good reminder that we are well-positioned to remain a leader in our space. 

I want to thank our school board for their efforts. All five made time to attend and fully engage for several days. They all have families and responsibilities in addition to their roles on the board. They represent our district well and are appreciated!  

A New Way to High School: Meet Palo Alto Middle College High School!

Have you heard? PAUSD has a 3rd high school! Palo Alto Middle College High School (PAMC) serves students in grades 9-12 and is located on the Foothill College campus. Students are enrolled in a small and supportive high school while also completing college coursework that earns both high school and college credit.

Join one of our live webinars to learn more about the school and hear from current PAMC students and families: December 10th, January 9th, and January 27th.  meet.google.com/jhy-kich-zkc

Additionally, interested students and families can visit the PAMC website to sign up for in-person campus tours, at  mc.pausd.org. Reach out to the PAMC office for more information! (650) 949-7771,  mloomis@pausd.org.