Building Momentum for Sierra Unified’s Future Through Careful Planning

At Sierra Unified School District, we believe every student deserves the opportunity to thrive academically, socially, and professionally. That belief continues to guide the work of District leadership as Sierra Unified advances a bold vision focused on student achievement, engagement, and future readiness.

This year, the District has celebrated measurable progress while laying the groundwork for even greater success in the years ahead. Goals and priorities for the upcoming years were recently highlighted at the District’s May Board meeting.

One of Sierra Unified’s most important priorities is increasing academic outcomes that prepare students for college and career pathways after high school. The District has established ambitious goals to improve student proficiency in English language arts and mathematics by 2029, with targeted annual growth in both CAASPP and diagnostic assessment performance.

Already, we are seeing encouraging results. Student performance in English language arts on the SBAC increased by more than 4.5 percent in the 24-25 school year, while both ELA and math indicators improved on the California Dashboard. These gains reflect strategic investments in classroom instruction, including expanded literacy coaching, math professional development, multi-tiered systems of support implementation at the junior high level, and the expansion of tools for K–6 students.

The District is also strengthening pathways that prepare students for success beyond graduation. We aim to increase the percentage of students graduating A-G eligible from 40.5 percent to 60 percent by 2029. To support this work, counselors now meet monthly, parent presentations have been expanded, and a new four-year academic planning system will launch next year.

Early literacy continues to remain a foundational focus. Sierra Unified has prioritized ensuring students are reading on grade level by third grade, recognizing the long-term impact literacy has on academic achievement. This year alone, the percentage of third graders reading on grade level increased by 6 percent by the third diagnostic assessment.

Beyond academics, we are equally committed to ensuring students feel connected, engaged, and supported throughout their educational experience. Our District goals emphasize meaningful instruction, inclusive activities, and a strong sense of belonging across all school sites.

Student participation in athletics, visual and performing arts, and clubs is helping establish strong baselines for future growth in engagement. The District is working to expand project-based learning experiences like those found in LEAP Lab so that more students across Sierra Unified can benefit from meaningful, real-world learning opportunities that build creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking skills.

In addition, Sierra Unified is investing in training for TK–12 teachers on California’s Native American model curriculum to encourage the inclusion of lessons that teach students about Native American history, culture, and contributions throughout California. This work reflects the District’s commitment to providing students with inclusive learning experiences that honor the diverse histories and perspectives that shape our state and communities.

At the same time, the District is working toward increasing attendance from 91 percent to 95 percent by 2029 while strengthening student connections with trusted adults on campus. These efforts recognize that student success is about more than test scores. Success is reached by ensuring every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to participate in school life.

Career Technical Education is another area where we continue to build momentum. The District’s College and Career Indicator on the California Dashboard improved from orange to green last year, reflecting expanded opportunities and improved student readiness. The District has also implemented surveys to better understand student interest in CTE pathways and expanded career exploration tools for students in grades 7–12.

While these accomplishments are worth celebrating, we recognize there is still important work ahead. Our goals are about creating opportunities for every Sierra Unified student to succeed, whether that path leads to college, career training, military service, or direct entry into the workforce.

The progress already underway demonstrates what is possible when educators, families, staff, and the broader community work together with a shared commitment to student success. We are not only preparing students for the future, but we’re also building a stronger future for the entire community.

As we close out the 25-26 school year, I am immensely proud and encouraged by our progress and eager to continue moving toward accomplishing our goals. For more information on the District’s goals and initiatives, visit sierrausd.org/sierra-excellence.

With gratitude,
Dr. Lori Grace, Superintendent
Sierra Unified School District