Welcome to the 2013-14 school year!  I hope you enjoyed a restful and rejuvenating summer, as well as some time to relax with your family and friends.  The first few days of summer are always filled with such high expectations; it doesn't seem possible that it is again time to get ready for the first day of school.  I am looking forward to meeting all of you at the Welcome Back Breakfast.

     As the new Superintendent of the McFarland Unified School District, my vision is to work in collaboration with all stakeholders.  I plan to create a community of learners and teachers who dedicate themselves to serving all students in our community.  I am committed to make student achievement our number one priority.  Together, we can build one of the best school districts in Kern County. With the participation of our school board members, parents, community members, administrative, classified and certificated staff, there’s no stopping us now!  I plan to lead the McFarland Unified School District by providing a rigorous curriculum, high expectations, collaboration, resources, support and holding all stakeholders accountable. 

     In McFarland, all students will be valued and respected.  I will expect the very best from my staff.  We will provide the finest educational institutions in Kern County.  This is our community and we will advocate for our students together.  During the new school year, we will work on making the transition from the California State Standards to the Common Core national Standards and the Smarter Balanced Assessments.

     In closing, I want each of you to know that you are all very important to our success.  We must instill strong collaboration within our professional learning communities and a willingness to work together, and we must hold each other accountable for the success of our students. Truthfully, we just can’t do it without you. The McFarland Unified School District board members and the administrative staff appreciate you for your dedication and your willingness to share your talents, your knowledge, and your wisdom with our students.

     Your input is important to us, and I encourage you to call or email me if you have questions or comments.  I wish everyone a great 2013-14 school year

Best regards,

Raul Maldonado