Back to School Preparations Underway in Pasadena Unified School District

The much-anticipated start of the new school year in the Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) is just around the corner, with the first day of classes set for Monday, August 14. As students and families gear up for another academic year, PUSD is offering valuable tips and information to ensure a successful start.

To ensure punctuality and a smooth start to the day, the District is recommending students and parents carefully plan routes to school, whether by walking, driving, or utilizing the LA Metro public transportation system.

For students who opt for public transportation, LA Metro provides convenient bus passes to facilitate their daily commute, encouraging eco-friendly travel options.

All TK-12 students in the district are now eligible to ride the Metro for free, thanks to a new program called the LA Metro Fareless System Initiative. The pilot program is geared towards helping students ride transit without the worry of paying fare. Students will have access to unlimited rides until June 30, 2024, on buses and trains run by LA Metro and other participating transit systems, at no cost to families.

In order to start riding for free, families will have to pick up a special GoPass TAP card and new eligibility code from your school and then register it online or via phone to activate.  For more call TAP at 866.TAPTOGO (M-F, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm) or email (in English or Spanish) to Sandra Vaca with PUSD Transportation at vaca.sandra@pusd.us.

A nourishing start to the day is paramount, and students are encouraged to begin their morning with a nutritious breakfast. Breakfast can be enjoyed at home or at school, with the latter offering complimentary meals to all students.

Registration days have been bustling across the district, featuring events at schools such as Blair, Marshall, and PHS. Students and parents have seized the opportunity to participate in after-school programs, sports, and clubs, while parents glean essential information about engagement in parent groups.

A range of engaging events awaits students and parents, including ice cream socials and “popsicles with the principal,” fostering a strong sense of community and involvement.

Those seeking guidance on the registration process are advised to contact their school’s registrar or visit the PUSD Office of Enrollment for assistance at (626) 396-3639.

Food and drink are a vital part of the school experience, with meals including breakfast, lunch, and supper set to begin on the inaugural day of school, August 14.

For families, it’s important to note that there is no fee for these meals and no requirement to complete a meal application from the Food & Nutrition Services Department. Instead, families are encouraged to complete the alternative income form during registration.

In an ongoing effort to cater to student preferences, PUSD’s Food and Nutrition Services department will conduct a survey in September, soliciting input from students and families to shape menu offerings.

Further, this academic year introduces a registered dietitian collaborating closely with PUSD’s Health Programs staff, ensuring specialized dietary needs, such as allergies or insulin dependency, are meticulously addressed.

As part of an enriched educational experience, PUSD has unveiled expanded learning programs, inviting students to participate in an array of engaging activities. Offerings include computer coding, visual/performing arts, karate, homework assistance, cooking, and sewing, among others.

Daily offerings encompass academic support, enriching classes, physical fitness activities, and a nutritious supper, extending from dismissal to 6:00 p.m. on regular school days.

Notably, priority enrollment is extended to English Learners, students in foster care, those facing homelessness, and students qualifying for free/reduced-price meals based on family income.

To accommodate diverse schedules, morning programs are available at select schools including Don Benito, Field, Marshall, Norma Coombs, and San Rafael.

Applications for these programs can be obtained from school offices or the LEARNs website at www.pusd.us/learns. Given the popularity of these programs, prospective participants are encouraged to apply promptly to secure their spots.

The beginning of the school year marks a period of anticipation and readiness, as students, parents, and educators prepare for a successful year ahead in the Pasadena Unified School District.