A note from Superintendent Bassanelli: San Juan Unified’s commitment to college and career readiness

Sept. 12, 2023

Hello San Juan Unified families,

As we wrap up our first month of school, I wanted to share a few highlights around the work being done to ensure our students graduate from our schools both college and career-ready. 

San Juan Unified students have access to a wide range of college and career readiness opportunities including over 20 Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways, Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) programs at high schools and a dual enrollment option at local community colleges.

As I’ve taken some time to reflect on the career readiness opportunities offered at San Juan Unified, I was reminded of a student who enrolled in our CTE fire technician pathway. Through her participation in the program, she discovered an interest in Emergency Medical Technician work, of which had not previously been on her radar. Our programs and staff are actively opening our students’ eyes to the endless possibilities which wait for them after graduation.

This month, I invite our students and families to participate in an exciting week of career-readiness programming. Our K-12 College Week begins next week and stands as an excellent opportunity for students to explore their futures. One event that I’m particularly excited to attend is our Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Recruitment Fair, which will be held this week on Sept. 14, preceding next week’s daily activities. I’m looking forward to witnessing first-hand as students receive on-the-spot admissions to college.

For a full schedule of College Week activities and spirit days, visit www.sanjuan.edu/collegeweek.

I recently had the opportunity to chat with our district’s Lead Counselor Tracie Locke and San Juan High School alum Nanik Tagore about the importance of college and career exploration and upcoming College Week activities. I encourage you to listen to our conversation to learn more about how San Juan Unified prepares its students for post-graduation success.

As I reflect on the positive impact our alumni have made in our world, I am proud of the programs and opportunities that we continue to grow and offer our students in San Juan Unified. Together, we all play a crucial role in empowering those around us to reach their fullest potential.

In community,

Melissa Bassanelli

Superintendent