Benicia School District focuses on equity and student support at multiple campuses

The Benicia Unified School District (BUSD) Board Meeting on May 1, 2025, highlighted a strong commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and academic growth across all schools. Key discussions centered around the implementation of new initiatives aimed at enhancing student support and engagement.

A significant focus was placed on the development of a home school survey, set to launch early next year, to gather essential feedback from families. This initiative aligns with the district's equity goals, emphasizing the importance of academic support and ensuring that every child and family feels included.

At Benicia Middle School, the administration reported on the revitalization of the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework, which aims to create a supportive school culture. The introduction of "Viking values"—a set of principles developed with student input—will guide students in embodying qualities such as kindness and supportiveness. Additionally, quarterly Viking rallies are planned to boost school spirit and community.

Liberty High School's report underscored the importance of a growth mindset and the need for continuous data analysis to track student progress. The school is committed to professional development for teachers, focusing on universal design for learning to accommodate diverse learning styles. The administration aims to create a supportive environment where every student feels valued and empowered to succeed.

Benicia High School is also making strides, particularly in staff collaboration to establish essential standards across core classes. This initiative will ensure equitable access to a cohesive curriculum. The school is piloting an intervention program to maximize the effectiveness of the access period, ensuring that students who need additional support are utilizing this time effectively.

Overall, the meeting showcased BUSD's dedication to enhancing educational experiences through community engagement, data-driven strategies, and a focus on inclusivity. As these initiatives roll out, the district anticipates a positive impact on student achievement and well-being.