Welcome Back OUSD! A New Year of Joyful Learning Starts Monday, August 10

It’s almost here! This Monday, August 10, we welcome students, families, and staff back to our campuses for the first day of the 2026-27 school year. 

I truly cannot wait. 

Before we dive into day one, however, I want to pause and share my heartfelt gratitude for our incredible OUSD team. So many of our staff members haven't stopped moving since the final bell rang in May. While most of our kids were away enjoying summer, our custodial and maintenance teams were deep cleaning, painting, and polishing campuses so they shine. Our dedicated support staff worked tirelessly helping families navigate enrollment. And our educators have spent time honing their craft and turning classrooms into inspiring places to learn. At the same time, our principals have been collaborating, sharing best practices and setting big goals for the year ahead. It truly takes a village, and I am deeply grateful to everyone in the District who chooses to serve our young people every day.

No matter how long I have been in the education business - and the number of years is significant - there is nothing quite like the start of a new school year. From wide-eyed TK and Kindergarten students taking their first brave steps onto campus with a mix of jitters and wonder, to high school seniors walking tall, hugging old friends, and counting down to senior traditions and graduation, you can see the magic everywhere you look.

I am excited to visit eight schools across the city on Monday where I’ll get to share high fives, observe teaching and learning starting up again, listen to stories from students and staff, and celebrate day one in our school communities. Beyond the excitement, I am also looking at the big picture - ensuring our operations run smoothly so that we are delivering on our promise to give every child the quality education they deserve.

It is my profound honor to serve as your Superintendent and I hope you’ll join me in doing everything within your power to support our students. As we step into the new year, here are simple yet important ways that you can partner with us:

• Remind your students that starting this year, every day is a Cell Phone-Free School Day at all schools. Students will be locking their phones, smartwatches, and other personal electronic devices from the start of school until the end of the day. This policy is based on state law. 
• Ensure good student attendance. Students cannot learn if they are not in class. We need every student in class, on time, every day, ready to learn. Building these good habits now is so important for their future successes.
• Lend a hand. Whether you have two hours a week or two hours a year - there are so many ways to make a difference in our schools. Learn about opportunities to join a committee or how to volunteer on a school campus.
• Get Involved & Be Informed. Partner with us in your child’s educational journey. Join your school’s PTA, attend a Board of Education meeting, and keep up with district and school newsletters. Your presence and voice make all the difference.

Let’s make it a great year, Oakland!

Dr. Denise Saddler
Superintendent