As educators, we know that student success doesn’t happen overnight. Success is the result of sustained effort, community partnership, and a deep belief in the potential of every student. At Pajaro Valley Unified School District, I’m proud to say that those values are fueling real progress across our classrooms, campuses and communities. In just the past year, we have seen remarkable growth in student engagement, innovation in learning and renewed collaboration with our local partners. From expanding dual enrollment opportunities through Cabrillo College to strengthening impactful after-school programs. Pajaro Valley Unified is creating new pathways to achievement for every learner. This fall, we are thrilled for the successful launch of PV Advance, a unique partnership between Pajaro Valley Unified School District and Cabrillo College that allows high school students to earn free, transferable college credits while still in high school. The inaugural class of 70 ninth-graders from Pajaro Valley High School will have the chance to earn at least 24 college units, the equivalent of two semesters, by the time they graduate. These courses are UC and CSU transferable, giving students a significant head start on higher education while saving their families thousands of dollars. This initiative, in partnership with Pajaro Valley Federation of Teachers, reflects our shared belief that college access should never depend on a family’s financial situation. It is one more way Pajaro Valley Unified is helping students dream big, plan ahead and graduate with confidence. Beyond academics, the district continues to offer one of the region’s most comprehensive Expanded Learning programs, serving more than 4, 000 students across 20 sites. These after-school programs combine academic support with enrichment opportunities in the arts, athletics and career exploration, helping students thrive socially and emotionally as well as academically. We are also proud of PV Elevate, our flexible learning option that allows students to personalize their education through independent study and optional in person labs. This program model is built around student choice and access. These are core values that define who we are as a district and how we support our students. Our commitment to advancing student readiness goes far beyond test scores. We also partner with the California College Guidance Initiative to help students and families navigate financial aid, college applications and career pathways. Efforts like these help reinforce the message that Pajaro Valley Unified is proactively opening doors to opportunity, creating conditions that provide stability and fostering a consistent belief in lifelong growth as one of the most important investments that we support our students in making for themselves and for our community. At the heart of our mission is a deep respect for the diversity and resilience of the Pajaro Valley community. Our Family Engagement and Wellness Center and Pajaro Family Resource Center both support students and families through collaborative partnership with community organizations providing access to mental health resources, parenting workshops, nourishing food and community connections. And across our schools, we celebrate cultural events and heritage months, from Indigenous Peoples’ Day to LGBTQ+ History Month, to ensure that every student feels seen and valued. This spirit of inclusivity extends to our leadership team as well. Earlier this year, six Pajaro Valley Unified administrators were recognized regionally as “Administrators of the Year” by the Association of California School Administrators, a testament to the dedication of those who serve our schools every day. Every success story in the Pajaro Valley Unified School District is a reflection of the community that surrounds and supports us. Parents, educators and community partners are standing shoulder to shoulder, doing everything they can to make sure every child feels supported, seen and given the chance to thrive, no matter what challenges they or their families face. Even as we navigate significant budget challenges, our dedication to students and families does not waver. Together, we will keep building a future rooted in strength, opportunity and hope. Our commitment is simple but powerful: to prepare students for the future by giving them the tools, confidence and opportunities they deserve. And that commitment is carried every day by our entire PVUSD family, administrators, educators, staff and parents who work together to make it happen for every child. Heather Contreras is the Pajaro Valley Unified School District superintendent of schools.
https://www.santacruzsentinel.com/2025/11/22/pvusd-community-message-investing-in-our-students-future-pajaro-valley-unified-is-on-the-rise/
PVUSD Community Message | Investing in our students’ future: Pajaro Valley unified is on the rise
