Milpitas Unified says several high schools sustained over 96% attendance; district highlights inclusion-focused PD

A district presenter reported on Jan. 9 that several Milpitas Unified schools, including Milpitas High School and Calaveras Hills High School, sustained average daily attendance above 96% despite minor dips after winter break. "They have done a tremendous job in maintaining over 96% average daily attendance," the presenter said, noting prior years sometimes saw rates in the low 90s or high 80s.

The presenter framed the numbers as part of a broader state-of-the-district update and said middle and elementary schools also show strong attendance, helping explain an overall improvement districtwide.

The report turned to professional development. The presenter said the district held a colleague-to-colleague Milpitas Unified professional development day on Jan. 5 that included "over 700 participants, certificated and classified." The event focused on three strategic commitments—"building a culture of we," "designing pathways" and engaging learners for social, emotional and academic gains—with a stated emphasis on inclusion and ensuring students who require special services are included in general classrooms where appropriate.

The presenter described the PD as a large collaborative effort: organizers ran more than 22 small breakout rooms, and the district tapped 11 certificated managers from learning and development and nine classified managers from departments including maintenance of operations (MOT), student nutrition, business and human resources to facilitate sessions. The presenter also listed contributions from four teachers, speech-language pathologists, four mental health counselors, behavior intervention therapists and three teachers on special assignment.

Union and outside partners participated. The presenter said the CSEA president presented at the event and named MTA leaders Clarissa Isbell, Brett Webber and Alicia Salcedo as contributors. External presenters included representatives from the New Teacher Center, the Milpitas Fire Department and a national speaker on inclusion. The presenter credited district leads Kristen Stonehouse, Preeti Jahari, Mary Jude Dorpinghaus and Sherry Ames with designing the PD.

The presenter also recognized student achievements, citing competitive cheer and scholar athletes who earned state and national awards and thanking coaches Franklin and Williams. The presenter noted 12 students had contacted Mr. Forsner about submitting videos for a "building a culture of we" contest and said the district looks forward to unveiling the submissions.

The presenter closed by thanking staff and volunteers for organizing the PD and concluded the state-of-the-district report.