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Opening Message from the Superintendent
Welcome back returning families, and a special welcome to all of those families joining us for the first time. The Summer Newsletter is meant to give you information you need to get organized for the school year. You can also check out our newly re-designed website at https://www.montecitou.org/ (with a thank you to our Senior Network and Systems Tech, Colin Valiante for the work).
As superintendent, my job is to work collaboratively with all of you to create the conditions of success for our staff, our students, and each of our MUS Families. I'm thrilled to be starting my 27th year in education, my 17th year as superintendent, and my 9th year as superintendent of this special one-school district: a place where learning is filled with wonderment and awe!
My email is aranii@montecitou.org and my work number is 805.969.3249 ext. 401. One of the joys of working at a small district is that it is easy to get in touch, so please contact me if you have a question, some feedback, or just want to chat! In fact, please keep my cell number handy in case you have an urgent need and can't reach me through other means: 805.698.3083.
At MUS, we believe that together we can launch inspired thinkers who will positively impact the world! I can't wait to see you on the first day of school, August 21, at one of upcoming events (see right column for more information on events), or at an upcoming Board Meeting, MUSF Meeting, or Superintendent Coffee. There's information about all of that and more in this 2025 Summer Newsletter. I hope it's helpful as you look forward to a splendid year at MUS!
--Anthony Ranii, Superintendent |
| Record Breaking Academic Achievement! |
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I want to commend our students, teachers, and staff members for working hard to bring back the best CAASPP (California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress) scores we've ever had! If you remember me saying this last year, you're right...we keep setting new records!
Students in 3rd-6th grade take the test in English Language Arts and Mathematics. As you can see from the charts below, in the area of English and Language Arts, we matched our highest percentage of students who met or exceeded standards at 91%, but improved the number of students who exceeded standards by 3% to 68% and decreased the percentage of students who did not meet standards from 2% to 1%.
In the area of Mathematics, 92% of our students met or exceeded standards, which is our highest showing ever! We also improved the percentage of students who exceeded standards in this area from 2% to 71%, and decreased the percentage of students who did not meet standards from 4% to 2%.
5th graders also take a test in Science that covers several years' of content. 79% of our students met or exceeded standards in that category. |
| Bell Schedule 2025-2026 |
This schedule is likely smaller on your screen than is useful. For a link to this Bell Schedule on our website, please click here.
Please note on the Bell Schedule that Kindergarten students start school with a reduced day and begin their full day schedules on Monday, September 15.
Supervision on the Lower Terraces, Blacktop, and Belltower begins at 8:00am. TK/Kindergarten playground supervision begins at 8:15am.
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| Mission Statement and Strategic Plan |
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Our Mission Statement is: "To Launch Inspired Thinkers Who Positively Impact the World."
Our full Strategic Plan can be found here. For your convenience, our four Strategic Initiatives are shown below.
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| Facilities Projects |
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In addition to deep cleaning and basic repairs, we were kept busy this summer improving our facilities.
The following projects are completed or are scheduled to be completed before school begins:
- Funded by MUSF and the Chakola/Jackson Family: Creation of Mindfulness Pathway (Ribbon Cutting 9/5 @ 7:45am, see right column for details)
- Funded by MUSF, the Miller Family, and a group of Palisades families that joined MUS: Installation of three new Fitness Stations: the Zecher, Palisades, and Gratitude Stations (Ribbon Cutting 9/5 @ 7:45am)
- Funded by MUSF and the La Barge Family: Renovation of La Barge Track and Field (Ribbon Cutting 9/5 @ 7:45am).
- Funded by MUSF: Installation of New PE Shed
- Painting of school (all buildings not already painted as part of the D and E Renovation)
- Installation of bike enclosure and several fence sections across campus
- Resurfacing of Building A Walkway
The following projects will still be in process when school begins:- Auditorium theatrical lighting replacement. This project was delayed due to significant delays in receiving all the ordered equipment.
(Please note, the pictures below are of "in progress" projects that will be completed by the start of school!)
     
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Useful Tips, Reminders, and Requests |
- If your child is going to be out, please email the teacher and the attendance account at attendance@montecitou.org
- Please park only in designated “visitor” spaces during normal operating hours (from 7:00-3:00)
- Students are welcome on campus at the blacktop, terraces, and courtyard starting at 8:00am. Supervision at the TK playground begins at 8:15am
- Please refrain from using cell phones when in our lots to support safety
- If students choose to bring cell phones and other smart devices such as smartwatches to school, they must keep them off and in their backpacks during the school day. As we have seen some near misses, we strongly recommend that students who are walking home do not use their phones for safety concerns
- Please clearly label sweaters, jackets, lunchboxes, and water bottles. Our lost and found team can easily return items when they are clearly labeled
- Please keep dogs and other pets at home
- Students only need to bring a backpack and reusable water bottle to school (and a snack and lunch if they are not using the free school food program). We provide all other school supplies
- Your child should know their pick-up plan each day. This helps keep students safe and lowers their anxiety. This also protects instructional time by minimizing disruptions to classrooms when plans are changed
- Bikes should be walked while on campus and placed in our bike corral. Bikes should not be ridden anywhere on campus either during or after school hours. This includes the terraces
- Students arriving late to school or returning to campus must check in through the front office
- Your child should know emergency phone numbers in case of the need to call home
- Please send your child to school prepared and limit material drop offs during school hours (water bottles, lunch, clothing). Food delivery services such as Grubhub may not be delivered to the school
- Early pick up release requirements (doctor appts, vacations, etc.)
- To release your child to an adult that isn't the legal guardian, the adult must either be on the contact page for the child or front office staff must be notified ahead of time
- The child must be picked up and signed out on campus (nurse’s office, front office), not in the parking lot
- Our website, at www.montecitou.org, has a calendar, links to Board Meeting materials, links to our Board Policies, and much more
- Parent in-person visiting hours are limited to before and after school (up to 8:30am & after 3:00pm) unless pre-approved (ex: volunteering at events, attending classroom or school wide activities)
- To check-in: please enter through the front office, sign the visitor log, and place a red visitor badge visibly on your person
- We will be sending out more detailed information by August 15th in our back to school slides
 We are excited to continue our partnership with the YMCA. All of the MUS/YMCA after school programs are held on the MUS campus. These are fee-based programs, though if a student is an English learner, foster youth, or meet income eligibility guidelines (contact Virginia Alvarez at valvarez@montecitou.org for more details), they may qualify for free After School and/or Gap Care through MUS's Extended Learning Opportunities Program.
TK: After School Care Program
- Option 1: Dismissal until 3:00 pm
- Option 2: Dismissal until 6:00 pm
Kindergarten-1st Grade: Gap Care Program
- Dismissal until 3:00 pm is available for families needing a single pick up with older siblings
- K/1 Gap Care starts September 15
- Gap Care is not available during conference weeks
Kindergarten-6th Grade: After School Care Program
Please note that a communication describing all after school offerings will be sent to all families in the coming weeks. We have several offerings in addition to the YMCA programs described above.
| New Teachers, Class Configurations, and Class Sizes |
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With two retirements and the addition of two new classes, we are absolutely thrilled to welcome four new teachers to MUS!
Megan Combs, Transitional Kindergarten
Since beginning her teaching career in 2012, she has brought passion, dedication, and expertise to classrooms across Santa Barbara County, with a particular focus on Transitional Kindergarten and Kindergarten. Her commitment to early childhood education is reflected not only in her extensive experience in Goleta and Santa Barbara schools, but also in her deep belief that teaching is "not merely my vocation, but my calling." Beyond the classroom, she has enriched school communities by directing the Kindergarten class play, leading and facilitating a school-wide Variety/Talent Show, and serving as a Technology Mentor for Kindergarten, inspiring both students and colleagues alike.
Abbie Lynn Stirling, Physical Education
Since 2010, she has taught in both public and private schools, working with students from Kindergarten through 8th grade and bringing a dynamic, interdisciplinary approach to education. Her professional development includes specialized training in Mindfulness, Universal Design for Learning, Yoga Education, and Project-Based Learning—reflecting a commitment to inclusive, whole-child teaching. A Presidential Scholarship recipient, Fulbright Scholarship nominee, and Research and Awards Grant recipient through the Latino Leadership Opportunity Program, she brings academic excellence and a global perspective to her work. Her philosophy centers on integrating academic themes into physical education, emphasizing movement, rhythm, self-regulation, group dynamics, and overall wellness to foster deeper understanding and student growth. Rebecca Faanes, 6th Grade
A dedicated educator since 2017, she is a proud graduate of Montecito Union School and has devoted her teaching career to serving students in the Santa Barbara community. Trained in the Science of Reading practices, she brings evidence-based literacy instruction to her classroom and collaborates closely with her grade-level team to design and implement differentiated, data-driven strategies that meet the needs of all learners. Her teaching philosophy centers on "developing engaging lessons, integrating technology with curriculum when appropriate, and creating a supportive learning environment for students to take risks, ask questions, and think creatively," fostering both academic growth and a love of learning.
Elizabeth Caruso, Music Teacher
An accomplished music educator since 2008, she brings extensive experience in general music instruction, strings, and choral ensembles to her teaching. Since 2015, she has been a vital part of the Santa Barbara arts education community, inspiring students through dynamic and inclusive music programs. In addition to her school-based work, she serves as Director of both the Nick Rail Summer Band Camp and the Soundwaves Music and Movement Camp, extending her impact beyond the classroom. Her dedication and excellence were recognized in 2021 when she was honored as the Santa Barbara County Performing Arts Teacher of the Year.
Class Sizes
We currently expect 383 students spread over 24 classes for a school-wide average of 15.95 students per class, though this is of course subject to change. TK and K classes have 11-14 students, 1st-3rd have 15-17 students, and 4th-6th have 15-20 students currently.
Classroom Assignments:
- TK: 2 classes (Stokes and Combs)
- Kindergarten: 3 classes (Allison, Luna, Mather)
- 1st: 3 classes (Cloud, Marsh, Soderborg)
- 2nd: 3 classes (Compton, Craine, Judy)
- 3rd: 4 classes (Hammer, Monson, Noble, Trent)
- 4th: 3 classes (Bruski, Gallup, Gonzales)
- 5th: 3 classes (Brown, Carrington, Nimitarnun)
- 6th: 3 classes (Berman, Faanes, Weill)
Please note that your child's teacher will introduce you to other staff members that support your child's class, including an instructional assistant. Those assignments are being finalized, and your child's teacher will introduce you to these key staff members once school begins.
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| MUS Character Education and Habits of Mind |
The MUS Student Pledge captures much of what we strive for in character education, and we hope you hear the words, "kindness, respect, and integrity" at home as we use these words all the time at school.
As a certified International Habits of Mind school, we teach the sixteen Habits of Mind, with particular focus on 1) Metacognition, 2) Listening with Understanding and Empathy, 3) Managing Impulsivity, 4) Thinking Interdependently, and 5) Taking Responsible Risks. These lessons occur during Mustang Meetings in class, at Friday Flags (see the "You Are Invited!" section), and are integrated in the academic learning with teachers and specialists.
We also emphasize safe behavior, and often ask kids to reflect on positive ways to play, learn, and socialize. We will continue to maintain high expectations of students demonstrating strong character both in the classroom and during other times such as recess, lunch, and before and after school. |
| Staffing Opportunities |
| We have offered positions to fill all our vacant positions, and hope to be fully staffed to start the school year. That said, we are always looking for high quality substitute teachers, and employment opportunities can come up suddenly. See here for the latest on our employment opportunities. |
Free Breakfast and Lunch for All; Pre-Ordering Required |
Breakfast and lunch are free to all students through the CA Universal Meals Program. Pre-ordering is required, and additional information will be sent to all families in a separate post by August 15. To learn more, please click here or reach out to Melissa Spink, Student Meals Program Coordinator, at mspink@montecitou.org or (805) 969-3249 x331.
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The First Day of School is Thursday, August 21. Please note the schedule for that day:
TK: 8:30am-12:50pm
K: 8:30am-1:00pm
1st-3rd: 8:30am-12:45pm
4th-6th: 8:30am-1:00pm
Events
August 15; 4pm sharp: Class Lists Posted: We will send these through email to parents. A physical copy will also be located in the school office.
August 18; 4:00pm-6:00pm: Welcome Event for New MUS Parents/ Guardians: If you are a new family you will soon receive an invitation with details of the event.
August 19; 4pm-7pm: Montecito Union School District Board of Trustees Meeting: Join us in Room D-17
August 20; 9:00am: MUS School Tour for New Families: Join us for a family-led tour of MUS to help your new student/s ease their
first-day-of-school jitters.
We will be walking around campus, pointing out the MUS play areas, restrooms, water stations, lunchtime activity locations, and more! Please see attached invitation for more details.
August 22; 4pm-6pm: Montecito Union School Foundation (MUSF) Back to School Picnic: Bring your picnic dinners or purchase food at school. There will be activities for the kids and a chance for adults to meet each other. Location: Terraces
Thursday, August 28 Back to School Night:
5:00 TK-1st Presentations
5:35 2nd-3rd Presentations
6:05 Admin Address
6:45 4th, 5th, & 6th Presentations
September 1, Labor Day: No School.
Friday, September 5 at 7:45am: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and 1st Running Club: Come to the terraces to see the ribbons cut for 1) The LaBarge Track and Field, 2) the Mindfulness Pathway, and 3) the Zecher, Palisades, and Gratitude Fitness Stations. This will also be the first Running Club of the Year. Please see attachment for more details.
Friday, September 5 at 8:35am: Friday Flag followed by Superintendent's Coffee: See the section below entitled "You Are Invited!" for more details.
Saturday, September 27: MUSF Pancake Breakfast: This Saturday morning event is fun for the whole family! Mark your calendars now.
October 11: MUSF Fall Carnival: This Saturday event is one of the highlights of the year for all students!
YOU ARE INVITED!
All MUS Families are invited and encouraged to be an active part of our school community. Here are some of the many ways you can get involved and be a part of the MUS Family!
Friday Flag: The first Friday of every month (with some adjustments when we're not in session that day), we host a Friday Flag at our Bell Tower. The students say the Pledge of Allegiance, recite the Student Pledge (this links to the Strategic Plan; the Student Pledge is on the bottom right corner), hear important messages regarding Habits of Mind, and sing the school song (listen here...scroll to bottom of page). We encourage family members to join us! It's a great way to start the day and to stay connected to your school.
Superintendent's Coffees: After each Friday Flag, please consider staying a bit longer for the Superintendent Coffee. It's a chance to hear from Mr. Ranii, ask him questions, give him feedback, and connect with other parents and guardians. Please note, when school performances or other events follow Friday Flag, the date of Superintendent's Coffees can move.
MUS School Board Meetings: School Board Members set the vision for the district, approve the budget, decide upon facilities projects, and make other lasting decisions for our one-school district. They are always available to you if you have a question or just want to chat. Click here for their names and links to their email addresses.
Before every Board Meeting, you'll receive an overview of the topics as well as a link to the agenda and Board Packet. Meetings are open to the public, published on our calendar, and you always have the opportunity to make comments. Click here for access to the Board Packet and our Board Policies.
Montecito Union School Foundation (MUSF) Board Meetings: MUSF is our "parent Teacher Organization" and also serves as our fundraising organization. These meetings are open to all, published on the calendar, and you will also receive an email invitation as a reminder. These meetings are a great way to get involved, volunteer, or just get to know the school a little better. Click here to go to the MUSF website.
Email, Call, or Stop By: We encourage you to email your teacher. Additionally, please don't hesitate to email, call, or stop by the office of any of the administrators. We truly want to hear from you, so if there's something on your mind, let's connect!
Anthony Ranii, Superintendent
- aranii@montecitou.org
- direct: 805.969.3249 ext. 401
- cell: 805.698.3083
Nick Bruski, Principal
- nbruski@montecitou.org
- direct: 805.969.3249 ext. 402
Rusty Ito, Assistant Principal
- rito@montecitou.org
- direct: 805.969.3249 ext. 410
Virginia Alvarez, Chief Business Official, HR)
- valvarez@montecitou.org
- direct: 805.969.3249 ext. 420
Access the School Calendar: Click here for our one-page school calendar. Our homepage, available here, lists upcoming events. You can even subscribe to our calendar through ParentSquare:
On the ParentSquare website:
- Navigate to the Calendar section.
- Click the "Subscribe" button (usually in the top right corner).
- Follow the instructions provided by ParentSquare or your calendar application to complete the subscription.
In the ParentSquare app:
- Open the app and tap the triple bar menu.
- Go to "Account" and then "Preferences".
- Toggle on the "Automatically add events to calendar" option.
- If this is the first time, you may need to grant ParentSquare access to your calendar.
Important Notes:
- Ensure you are logged into ParentSquare with the same account your school uses for communication.
- If you have multiple students, you can subscribe to calendars from different schools or groups.
- You can usually choose to sync the calendar with your iPhone, Outlook, or other calendar applications.
- Subscribing ensures that any updates or changes to the school calendar are automatically reflected in your personal calendar.
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