For the month of August, I would like to recognize some star Los Banos Unified School District students in the community.

From Los Banos Junior High, Ingrid Langarica is competing in the Spanish Creed FFA National competition, Rilee Ciuffo is being recognized on the FFA National stage for Division 1: Plant

Systems in the Agri-science Fair and Elenny Rodriguez and Camila Rodriguez are being recognized on the FFA National stage for Division 2: Food Products & Processing Systems in the Agri-science Fair.

Los Banos High School Junior Jaylene Barriga was selected as a National Delegate representing the California Association FFA at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis Indiana this coming October. She will be involved in the voting processes for changes or additions to the association’s bylaws, electing the next National Officer Team and any other items that cross the table for the benefit of the members of the association.

From RM Miano Elementary, sixth-grade student David Barreras has been selected to represent the United States on the USA Muaythai Youth Team, a significant honor as USA Muaythai is recognized by the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee. David Barreras will be competing at the international level during the upcoming Muaythai championship in Bangkok, Thailand in September.

Los Banos Unified school district’s mission is to provide all students with an unparalleled education in a safe learning environment. We want to ensure that graduates are confident, prepared citizens positively impacting the world in their ongoing pursuit of knowledge.

We believe that communities are fundamental in shaping our shared identity. Los Banos Unified values a student-centered culture built on respect, pride and inclusivity among all. Because we embrace the unique cultural make-up of Los Banos, we foster strong partnerships with families, businesses and the wider community, working collaboratively to support and enrich the educational journey of every student.

We promote acceptance and value each individual’s unique qualities and perspectives. We believe that equity in education is the key to unlocking human potential.

Los Banos Unified promotes learning experiences that empower each student to dream, grow and thrive regardless of background or circumstances. Students explore a future beyond high school with the support of educators who are diverse in their approaches and backgrounds.

We value leadership that ignites and develops a sense of purpose and inspiration for all. Through visionary guidance, mentorship and opportunities for growth, leadership thrives, creating a community of confident and impactful student and adult leaders, both within and beyond the classroom. Nurturing leadership qualities in students empowers them to invoke positive change for themselves, their communities and the world.

We cultivate a community where all members, united by mutual respect and support, never lose faith in their abilities or those of their peers. Los Banos Unified values effort, patience, determination and the well-being of students and staff.

Perseverance and dedication fuel us to surpass perceived limitations and unlock our full potential, achieving beyond expectations. We are committed to collaboration, respectful engagement and partnership between students, families and educators and value trust and open communication in fostering a positive and effective learning environment.

We value excellence in the pursuit of the highest standards of academic achievement, personal growth and character development. Los Banos Unified fosters a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and a commitment to developing the skills to succeed in an ever-changing world. We believe in recruiting and supporting talented, dedicated and empathetic educators, staff and leaders who build communities where all can succeed.

Over the next three to five years, we will follow our beliefs to guide us to address the following priorities.

All LBUSD students will have equal access to a physically safe environment with social-emotional support.

LBUSD will model a culture of communication and collaboration among educational partners.

LBUSD Educators will develop the healthy mindsets and necessary skills and tools to engage students in learning that is engaging, rigorous, and relevant, while meeting the needs of all students.

LBUSD will provide and maintain state-of-the-art facilities, promoting a high-quality education that emphasizes 22nd Century skills.

LBUSD will partner with families to support their students throughout their academic career.

All LBUSD students will read at grade level by third grade, and will be prepared for high school math standards when entering ninth grade.

LBUSD will maintain fiscal stability to support district programs and growth.

Dr. Mark Marshall

Superintendent, Los Banos School District