Monroe Middle School

School News

Updated Wed, Sep 30th

Dear Monroe Families,

I hope this message finds you well. Please check out our website at monroe.campbellusd.org for up-to-date information and be on the lookout for our weekly communication that comes out on Wednesdays.  For a student perspective on school news, please check out the Monday Minutes, our weekly student broadcast.

Upcoming Events

  • Our first progress reports will go home via ParentSquare on September 30th.  Our students do grade checks every Monday in advisory and you can also check grades in the ParentPortal on PowerSchool.

  • Re-Take Picture Day is this Friday, October 2, 2026.  Students will take their picture during their PE class.  Please remind your student to tell their PE teacher they are doing a retake picture.

Reminders

  • Fall Conferences are next week, October 5th through the 9th.  We dismiss early each day at 12:35 PM.  Invitations for conferences went home through Advisory classes in 7th and 8th grade and through core teachers in 6th grade.

  • If your student is bringing money for the snack linet during lunch, we ask that they bring no more that $20 dollars.  All snacks are less than $2.

Family and Community Engagement

  • Our next Cafecito is October 7th at 8:30 AM in LaCasita.  We are hosting Every Woman Counts to share a presentation on breast cancer awareness.  We hope to see you there. 

School Highlights

We had over 80 6th grade families participate in our first Lunch with a Loved One event.  Our 7th and 8th student panel was able to share their perspective about middle school.  A huge thank you to our student panel members and Ms. Yesenia for coordinating the event.  Our next Lunch with a Loved One event is for all grades, so save the date of January 28, 2027.

Health and Safety

We must remind our students to be extra cautious when traveling to and from school. With reduced daylight in the mornings and evenings, road visibility is lower, and we want to ensure every child gets to school safely.

Please take a moment to review these safety tips with your child:

  1. Stay Visible: Encourage your child to wear bright or reflective clothing, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Consider adding reflective tape to backpacks, bikes, and scooters.

  2. Use Crosswalks and Sidewalks: Remind your child to always use crosswalks and obey traffic signals. When riding bikes or scooters, they should stay on bike paths or sidewalks where possible and avoid busy roads.

  3. Be Aware of Surroundings: It’s important that students stay alert by keeping headphones and mobile devices put away while crossing streets or riding.

  4. Helmets and Safety Gear: If your child is riding a bike or scooter, make sure they are wearing a helmet and any other necessary safety gear.

  5. Buddy System: Walking or riding with a friend can increase safety and make the journey to and from school more enjoyable.

Attendance

  • To report an absence, please call our 24-hour voicemail line at 408-341-7022 or monroe_attendance [at] campbellusd.org (when leaving a message or sending an email, please let me know the student's first and last name, grade, and the reason for the absence)

  • For information regarding the CUSD Attendance policy, please click here

Principal's Corner

With fall conferences coming up this is an excellent time to encourage your children to reflect on their progress and set meaningful goals for the months ahead. Goal setting is an essential skill that helps young people build confidence, focus, and resilience—qualities that will serve them well in school and beyond.

Here are some practical ways you can support your child in setting and achieving goals:

  1. Start with a Conversation

  • Ask open-ended questions like, "What is something you're proud of accomplishing this year?" or "What is one thing you'd like to improve on?"

  • Share your own experiences with setting goals, including successes and challenges, to model the process.

  • Break Goals into Steps

    • Help your child identify both long-term and short-term goals. For example, a long-term goal might be improving their grades in math, while a short-term goal could be completing all homework on time for the week.

    • Encourage them to write down their goals and the small steps needed to achieve them.

  • Celebrate Effort and Progress

    • Acknowledge your child’s hard work, even if they don’t fully achieve their goal. This helps reinforce a growth mindset.

    • Celebrate milestones along the way, no matter how small.

  • Encourage Accountability

    • Help your child track their progress. A family calendar, a journal, or even a simple checklist can make tracking fun and interactive.

    • Check in regularly to discuss how things are going and offer support or adjustments if needed.

    • Reinforce that the process of setting goals, staying committed, and learning from setbacks is just as important as the outcome.

    Our school is also working with students on goal setting during Advisory, and we encourage you to continue these conversations at home. Together, we can help our students aim high and develop the skills they need to succeed.

    Thank you for partnering with us in your child’s growth and learning.

    As always, we are here to answer your questions.  We appreciate you and your support for our school.

    Regards,

    Ruth Stephens Radle                     

    rstephensradle [at] campbellusd.org       

    Principal

    Oscar Guzman

    oguzman [at] campbellusd.org

    Assistant Principal        

    Roberto Alcazar

    //ralcanzar [at] campbellusd.org/">ralcazar [at] campbellusd.org

    Dean of Students

     

    Updated Thu, Oct 1st

    Dear Monroe Families,

    I hope this message finds you well. Please check out our website at monroe.campbellusd.org for up-to-date information and be on the lookout for our weekly communication that comes out on Wednesdays.  For a student perspective on school news, please check out the Monday Minutes, our weekly student broadcast.

    Upcoming Events

    • Lunch with a Loved One: A Taste of 6th Grade: September 29, 2026 from 12 PM to 1 PM.  Please register here.

    • Our first progress reports will go home via ParentSquare on September 30th.  Our students do grade checks every Monday in advisory and you can also check grades in the ParentPortal on PowerSchool.

    Reminders

    • Fall iReady Testing: We are conducting Fall iReady testing on September 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, and 22. The testing window is from 9:48 AM to 10:53 AM.   Please try to schedule appointments for your student outside this time frame.

    Family and Community Engagement

    • Our next Cafecito is October 7th at 8:30 AM in LaCasita.  We are hosting Every Woman Counts to share a presentation on breast cancer awareness.  We hope to see you there. 

    School Highlights

    Our Fall Club Rush will be held on September 24th and 25th at lunch.  Students will have the chance to explore over 15 different clubs including, but not limited to Art Club, Dungeons and Dragons Club, Muddy Buddies, and Math Club.  We have lots of reminders going out to students as well.  Students can still submit club proposals to the office through the end of this week.

    Health and Safety

    We must remind our students to be extra cautious when traveling to and from school. With reduced daylight in the mornings and evenings, road visibility is lower, and we want to ensure every child gets to school safely.

    Please take a moment to review these safety tips with your child:

    1. Stay Visible: Encourage your child to wear bright or reflective clothing, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Consider adding reflective tape to backpacks, bikes, and scooters.

    2. Use Crosswalks and Sidewalks: Remind your child to always use crosswalks and obey traffic signals. When riding bikes or scooters, they should stay on bike paths or sidewalks where possible and avoid busy roads.

    3. Be Aware of Surroundings: It’s important that students stay alert by keeping headphones and mobile devices put away while crossing streets or riding.

    4. Helmets and Safety Gear: If your child is riding a bike or scooter, make sure they are wearing a helmet and any other necessary safety gear.

    5. Buddy System: Walking or riding with a friend can increase safety and make the journey to and from school more enjoyable.

    Attendance

    • To report an absence, please call our 24-hour voicemail line at 408-341-7022 or monroe_attendance [at] campbellusd.org (when leaving a message or sending an email, please let me know the student's first and last name, grade, and the reason for the absence)

    • For information regarding the CUSD Attendance policy, please click here

    Principal's Corner

    Our PTA is kicking off its first fundraiser with Charleston Wrap.  As we continue to provide enriching experiences for our students, I’d like to take a moment to share an exciting update from our PTA. This year, the PTA is focusing its fundraising efforts on helping cover the costs associated with field trip transportation. Field trips offer powerful opportunities for our students to expand their learning beyond the classroom. These hands-on experiences bring lessons to life and expose students to new environments, cultural landmarks, and real-world applications of what they’re learning in school. Whether visiting a museum, a nature reserve, or a local business, field trips spark curiosity and allow students to see the world with fresh eyes. However, transportation costs can quickly add up. It costs about $10 per student for transportation to these valuable off-campus experiences. With the PTA’s generous support, we hope to expand our budget for field trips. Your involvement in PTA fundraisers will directly benefit our students, helping us provide them with meaningful experiences that deepen their learning and broaden their horizons. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to working together to make this year’s field trips memorable and enriching for all!

    As always, we are here to answer your questions.  We appreciate you and your support for our school.

    Regards,

    Ruth Stephens Radle                     

    rstephensradle [at] campbellusd.org       

    Principal

    Oscar Guzman

    oguzman [at] campbellusd.org

    Assistant Principal        

    Roberto Alcazar

    //ralcanzar [at] campbellusd.org/">ralcazar [at] campbellusd.org

    Dean of Students

    Updated Wed, Sep 16th

    September 2, 2026

    Dear Monroe Families,

    I hope this message finds you well. Please check out our website at monroe.campbellusd.org for up-to-date information and be on the lookout for our weekly communication that comes out on Wednesdays.  For a student perspective on school news, please check out the Monday Minutes, our weekly student broadcast.

    Upcoming Events

    • Picture day is September 4, 2026.  Students will have their pictures taken through their PE class.

    • Lunch with a Loved One: A Taste of 6th Grade: September 29, 2026 from 12 PM to 1 PM.  Please register here.

    Reminders

    • There is no school on Monday, September 7th, in observance of Labor Day.

    School Highlights

    The week of September 14th is our first school spirit week of Maverick Unidos.  Each day will have a spirit theme.  They are as follows:

    ⚽ Kick off Cultura: Soccer Jersey Day

    🤠 Howdy, Vaquero: Break out your hats, boots, denim, and western wear

    👯 Dos Son Mejor Que Uno: Twin Day

    🎨 Cut, Color, and Celebrate: Where your bright colors

    🚩 Show your Colores: Where the colors of your flag

    Family and Community Engagement

    • School Site Council Members Needed: We are looking for parent/guardian volunteers who would be willing to join our School Site Council.  This is an elected position; the term is two years, and we have two openings.  The School Site Council provides feedback and input into school programming and budgeting.  If you are interested, please email Ms. Radle by August 26th with a brief personal introduction. Language is not a barrier; please feel free to apply.

    Health and Safety

    We must remind our students to be extra cautious when traveling to and from school. With reduced daylight in the mornings and evenings, road visibility is lower, and we want to ensure every child gets to school safely.

    Please take a moment to review these safety tips with your child:

    1. Stay Visible: Encourage your child to wear bright or reflective clothing, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Consider adding reflective tape to backpacks, bikes, and scooters.

    2. Use Crosswalks and Sidewalks: Remind your child to always use crosswalks and obey traffic signals. When riding bikes or scooters, they should stay on bike paths or sidewalks where possible and avoid busy roads.

    3. Be Aware of Surroundings: It’s important that students stay alert by keeping headphones and mobile devices put away while crossing streets or riding.

    4. Helmets and Safety Gear: If your child is riding a bike or scooter, make sure they are wearing a helmet and any other necessary safety gear.

    5. Buddy System: Walking or riding with a friend can increase safety and make the journey to and from school more enjoyable.

    Attendance

    • To report an absence, please call our 24-hour voicemail line at 408-341-7022 or monroe_attendance [at] campbellusd.org (when leaving a message or sending an email, please let me know the student's first and last name, grade, and the reason for the absence)

    • For information regarding the CUSD Attendance policy, please click here

    Principal's Corner

    Fall iReady Testing: We will be conducting Fall iReady testing on September 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, and 22. The testing window is from 9:48 AM to 10:53 AM. iReady testing is an important diagnostic assessment that helps teachers understand each student's current academic progress in Reading and Math, which allows for personalized instruction and targeted support to help every student succeed. Please ensure students arrive at school well-rested and prepared to do their best. We kindly ask that you avoid scheduling appointments during this time.

    As always, we are here to answer your questions.  We appreciate you and your support for our school.

    Regards,

    Ruth Stephens Radle                     

    rstephensradle [at] campbellusd.org       

    Principal

    Oscar Guzman

    oguzman [at] campbellusd.org

    Assistant Principal        

    Roberto Alcazar

    //ralcanzar [at] campbellusd.org/">ralcazar [at] campbellusd.org

    Dean of Students

     

    Updated Fri, Aug 21st

    August 5, 2026

    Dear Monroe Families,

    I hope this message finds you well. Please check out our website at monroe.campbellusd.org for up-to-date information and be on the lookout for our weekly communication that comes out on Wednesdays.  For a student perspective on school news, please check out the Monday Minutes, our weekly student broadcast.

    Upcoming Events

    • 6th grade and new student orientation is August 18th from 5 PM to 6:30 PM.  Students can pick up paper schedules and will complete a tour of campus and visit 10 stations to learn more about our school.

    • Student Schedules will be available on PowerSchool at 5 PM on August 17th. 

    • Returning 7th and 8th grade students may pick up their schedules from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM on Tuesday, August 18th.

    Reminders

    • There is no school on Monday, September 7th in observance of Labor Day.

    • Picture day is September 4, 2026.  Students will have their pictures taken through their PE class.

    • Annual Parental Notification and Agreements via ParentSquare

    • Campbell Union School District Family Resources

    School Highlights

    • Our amazing custodial team has been working hard all summer to get our campus ready for the new year.  When you see our team, please be sure to thank them for their hard work.

    Family and Community Engagement

    • Back to School Night is Tuesday, September 1, 2026, starting at 6 PM.  We will send home schedules with students next Wednesday through 7th period and post the schedule on our website.

    Health and Safety

    If your student needs to take medication at school, be sure to bring an updated note and the medication to the office.  You may bring it to school starting on August 19th, or we are happy to help you on the first day of school.

    Attendance

    • To report an absence, please call our 24-hour voicemail line at 408-341-7022 or monroe_attendance [at] campbellusd.org (when leaving a message or sending an email, please let me know the student's first and last name, grade, and the reason for the absence)

    • For information regarding the CUSD Attendance policy, please click here

    Principal's Corner

    We are absolutely thrilled to welcome you and your students to the 2026–2027 school year. Whether your child is returning as a seasoned Maverick or joining our Monroe community for the very first time, we are committed to making this year one filled with deep growth, meaningful connection, and academic success.

    At Monroe, we believe that students truly thrive when they are in a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where they know they belong and can envision a bright future ahead. Over the past year, your thoughtful feedback has helped us celebrate what makes Monroe special and identify key areas where we can continue to strengthen our school culture.

    To ensure every student has the tools and environment to succeed, we are focusing on three foundational pillars this year:

    Advisory Time That Builds Belonging

    Each student will begin their day with a dedicated Advisory period. This structured time is focused on goal setting, building positive peer and teacher relationships, developing essential social-emotional skills, and creating a strong community where every voice is heard.

    AVID = College, Career, and Life Readiness

    As a proud AVID school, we support all students in developing a college- and career-ready mindset. Through school-wide strategies in organization, critical inquiry, collaborative learning, and reading/writing to learn, we empower our students to tackle high-level academic content with confidence and prepare for high school and beyond.

    A Safe, Supportive, and Distraction-Free Campus

    • The "Human Touch" & Staff Excellence: Our educators and staff members are dedicated to treating every child with kindness, respect, and individual attention.

    • Safety & Clear Expectations: We know that true learning requires a safe environment. This year, administrative leadership and staff are renewing our commitment to fair, transparent communication and proactive discipline. We are actively strengthening our support for teachers in maintaining focused, disruption-free classrooms and welcoming classroom environments.

    • Cell Phone Policy: We will continue our successful policy of putting away cell phones during the school day with the support of the Yondr Pouches. Parents and staff agree that removing phone distractions allows students to engage fully in learning, build real friendships, and enjoy a healthier social environment.

    Middle school is a time of discovery, and we are expanding opportunities for creative energy and hands-on engagement:

    • Student Ownership & Campus Pride: We are launching student-led projects, giving our Mavericks a tangible sense of pride and ownership in their school environment.

    • Thriving Sports & Clubs: From athletics to our Fall Club Rush and student clubs, we encourage every Maverick to get involved in extracurricular activities that foster social-emotional health and teamwork.

    We know students succeed when families and schools work closely together. We look forward to partnering with you through regular updates via ParentSquare, our school website, and weekly Principal Messages.

    We also invite you to join us on campus throughout the year for our beloved community events, including:

    • "Lunch with a Loved One" Series

    • Cafecito

    • Volunteer Opportunities like School Site Council, PTA, ELAC, Field Trips

    Thank you for trusting us with your children's education and well-being.

    As always, we are here to answer your questions.  We appreciate you and your support for our school.

    Regards,

    Ruth Stephens Radle                     

    rstephensradle [at] campbellusd.org       

    Principal

    Oscar Guzman

    oguzman [at] campbellusd.org

    Assistant Principal        

    Roberto Alcantar

    //ralcantar [at] campbellusd.org/">ralcantar [at] campbellusd.org

    Dean of Students

     

    Updated Fri, Aug 21st

    August 5, 2026

    Dear Monroe Families,

    I hope this message finds you well. Please check out our website at monroe.campbellusd.org for up-to-date information and be on the lookout for our weekly communication that comes out on Wednesdays.  For a student perspective on school news, please check out the Monday Minutes, our weekly student broadcast.

    Upcoming Events

    • 6th grade and new student orientation is August 18th from 5 PM to 6:30 PM.  Students can pick up paper schedules and will complete a tour of campus and visit 10 stations to learn more about our school.

    • Student Schedules will be available on PowerSchool at 5 PM on August 17th. 

    • Returning 7th and 8th grade students may pick up their schedules from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM on Tuesday, August 18th.

    Reminders

    • There is no school on Monday, September 7th in observance of Labor Day.

    • Picture day is September 4, 2026.  Students will have their pictures taken through their PE class.

    • Annual Parental Notification and Agreements via ParentSquare

    • Campbell Union School District Family Resources

    School Highlights

    • Our amazing custodial team has been working hard all summer to get our campus ready for the new year.  When you see our team, please be sure to thank them for their hard work.

    Family and Community Engagement

    • Back to School Night is Tuesday, September 1, 2026, starting at 6 PM.  We will send home schedules with students next Wednesday through 7th period and post the schedule on our website.

    Health and Safety

    If your student needs to take medication at school, be sure to bring an updated note and the medication to the office.  You may bring it to school starting on August 19th, or we are happy to help you on the first day of school.

    Attendance

    • To report an absence, please call our 24-hour voicemail line at 408-341-7022 or monroe_attendance [at] campbellusd.org (when leaving a message or sending an email, please let me know the student's first and last name, grade, and the reason for the absence)

    • For information regarding the CUSD Attendance policy, please click here

    Principal's Corner

    We are absolutely thrilled to welcome you and your students to the 2026–2027 school year. Whether your child is returning as a seasoned Maverick or joining our Monroe community for the very first time, we are committed to making this year one filled with deep growth, meaningful connection, and academic success.

    At Monroe, we believe that students truly thrive when they are in a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where they know they belong and can envision a bright future ahead. Over the past year, your thoughtful feedback has helped us celebrate what makes Monroe special and identify key areas where we can continue to strengthen our school culture.

    To ensure every student has the tools and environment to succeed, we are focusing on three foundational pillars this year:

    Advisory Time That Builds Belonging

    Each student will begin their day with a dedicated Advisory period. This structured time is focused on goal setting, building positive peer and teacher relationships, developing essential social-emotional skills, and creating a strong community where every voice is heard.

    AVID = College, Career, and Life Readiness

    As a proud AVID school, we support all students in developing a college- and career-ready mindset. Through school-wide strategies in organization, critical inquiry, collaborative learning, and reading/writing to learn, we empower our students to tackle high-level academic content with confidence and prepare for high school and beyond.

    A Safe, Supportive, and Distraction-Free Campus

    • The "Human Touch" & Staff Excellence: Our educators and staff members are dedicated to treating every child with kindness, respect, and individual attention.

    • Safety & Clear Expectations: We know that true learning requires a safe environment. This year, administrative leadership and staff are renewing our commitment to fair, transparent communication and proactive discipline. We are actively strengthening our support for teachers in maintaining focused, disruption-free classrooms and welcoming classroom environments.

    • Cell Phone Policy: We will continue our successful policy of putting away cell phones during the school day with the support of the Yondr Pouches. Parents and staff agree that removing phone distractions allows students to engage fully in learning, build real friendships, and enjoy a healthier social environment.

    Middle school is a time of discovery, and we are expanding opportunities for creative energy and hands-on engagement:

    • Student Ownership & Campus Pride: We are launching student-led projects, giving our Mavericks a tangible sense of pride and ownership in their school environment.

    • Thriving Sports & Clubs: From athletics to our Fall Club Rush and student clubs, we encourage every Maverick to get involved in extracurricular activities that foster social-emotional health and teamwork.

    We know students succeed when families and schools work closely together. We look forward to partnering with you through regular updates via ParentSquare, our school website, and weekly Principal Messages.

    We also invite you to join us on campus throughout the year for our beloved community events, including:

    • "Lunch with a Loved One" Series

    • Cafecito

    • Volunteer Opportunities like School Site Council, PTA, ELAC, Field Trips

    Thank you for trusting us with your children's education and well-being.

    As always, we are here to answer your questions.  We appreciate you and your support for our school.

    Regards,

    Ruth Stephens Radle                     

    rstephensradle [at] campbellusd.org       

    Principal

    Oscar Guzman

    oguzman [at] campbellusd.org

    Assistant Principal        

    Roberto Alcazar

    //ralcantar [at] campbellusd.org/">ralcantar [at] campbellusd.org

    Dean of Students

     

    Updated Wed, Jun 3rd

     

    Dear Monroe Families,

    I hope this message finds you well. Please check out our website at monroe.campbellusd.org for up-to-date information, as well as be on the lookout for our communication that comes out on Wednesdays every two weeks.  For a student perspective on school news, please check out the Monday Minutes, our weekly student broadcast.

     

    Upcoming Events

    • No School, May 25, 2026, in observance of Memorial Day

    • June 9, 10, and 11 are short days, and school ends at 1:35 PM

    • The 2026-2027 School year begins on August 18, 2026 at 8 AM

     

    Reminders:

    • 8th Grade Families: Please note that during Advisory, we are sharing reminders with 8th-grade students about end-of-year events and due dates.  Additionally, please take the time to review the 8th-grade end-of-year memo sent on April 27th to 8th-grade families.

     

    Health and Safety

    Report an absence, please call our 24-hour voicemail line at 408-341-7022 or monroe_attendance [at] campbellusd.org (when leaving a message or sending an email please let me know the student's first and last name, grade, and the reason for the absence)

    For information regarding the CUSD Attendance policy please click here

    ATTENDANCE MATTERS - REPORT STUDENT ABSENCES
    Students that are marked unexcused are unable to receive credit for assignments missed that day. If you call the school to verify your child’s absence with an allowed reason, your child can receive full credit for assignments missed that day. Please call the main office to report your child’s absence and refer to our student handbook for additional school policies.


    The Tdap vaccine and 2 doses of the chickenpox vaccine are required for all incoming 7th graders. 

    Please check your student's immunization records and/or check with your doctor. Please email murquhart [at] campbellusd.org () if you have any questions. 

     

    Principal's Corner

    The mid-year feedback that was collected in February highlights a deep appreciation for the "human element" that defines our school community. Parents and students consistently praised the dedication and professionalism of our staff to foster an environment where students feel both respected and capable. This supportive atmosphere has translated into tangible academic growth and high school readiness, with many families expressing a renewed sense of pride in the school’s rising reputation. Beyond the core curriculum, our thriving sports programs, popular extracurricular clubs, and community-building events have been instrumental in nurturing students' social-emotional well-being—a mission further supported by our successful "phones away" policy.

    To build on this strong foundation, we are proactively evolving our school culture by shifting toward restorative, instructional responses to student behavior. Rather than relying on exclusionary practices, we are leveraging our talented team to facilitate "Accountability Projects" and conflict mediation, ensuring students remain in the building and engaged in learning while they make amends. This shift is paired with an exciting vision for the future, including a desire for more "hands-on" outlets like student-led murals and expanded electives in gardening and the arts. By streamlining our administrative processes and prioritizing the peer-to-peer collaboration our teachers value so much, we are committed to maintaining a high standard of accountability while teaching the social-emotional skills necessary for long-term success.

    We want to thank everyone for their feedback and helping out team to keep improving and plan for next year.

    Regards,

    Ruth Stephens Radle                     

    rstephensradle [at] campbellusd.org       

    Principal

    Pat Sieler 

    psieler [at] campbellusd.org

    Assistant Principal        

     

    Laura Hammersmith

    lhammersmith [at] campbellusd.org

    Dean of Students

     

    Updated Wed, May 20th

    May 6, 2026

    Dear Monroe Families,

    I hope this message finds you well. Please check out our website at monroe.campbellusd.org for up-to-date information, as well as be on the lookout for our communication that comes out on Wednesdays every two weeks.  For a student perspective on school news, please check out the Monday Minutes, our weekly student broadcast.

     

    Upcoming Events

    Spring Testing Schedule continues through May 13th (Testing Session 9:38 AM to 11:18 AM).  If students need additional time or were absence we will be conducting extended time and make-up sessions through the end of May.

     

    Reminders:

    • 8th Grade Families: Please note that during Advisory, we are sharing reminders with 8th-grade students about end-of-year events and due dates.  Additionally, please take the time to review the 8th-grade end-of-year memo sent on April 27th to 8th-grade families.

     

    Health and Safety

    Report an absence, please call our 24-hour voicemail line at 408-341-7022 or monroe_attendance [at] campbellusd.org (when leaving a message or sending an email please let me know the student's first and last name, grade, and the reason for the absence)

    For information regarding the CUSD Attendance policy please click here

    ATTENDANCE MATTERS - REPORT STUDENT ABSENCES
    Students that are marked unexcused are unable to receive credit for assignments missed that day. If you call the school to verify your child’s absence with an allowed reason, your child can receive full credit for assignments missed that day. Please call the main office to report your child’s absence and refer to our student handbook for additional school policies.


    The Tdap vaccine and 2 doses of the chickenpox vaccine are required for all incoming 7th graders. 

    Please check your student's immunization records and/or check with your doctor. Please email murquhart [at] campbellusd.org () if you have any questions. 

    Principal's Corner 

    This week we celebrate Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week.  I find myself reflecting on the incredible heart and soul of our school. While we see the results of our students' hard work every day, I want to take a moment to shine a light on the people who make those successes possible: our dedicated educators and staff members.

    What Makes Our Team Special?

    • Unwavering Dedication: Whether it’s staying late to provide extra help, sponsoring a new club, or meticulously planning a lesson that "clicks," our staff goes above and beyond the call of duty.

    • A Culture of Collaboration: Great schools don’t happen in isolation. I am constantly inspired by how our teachers work across departments and grade levels to ensure every student is supported, challenged, and seen.

    • Strong Relationships: We believe that learning starts with connection. Our staff prides itself on building authentic relationships with students, creating a safe and welcoming environment where every Mustang feels they belong.

    Join Us in Saying "Thank You"

    Our staff doesn't do this for the recognition, but a kind word from a family member or a student can truly fuel their spirit for the rest of the year.

    As we head into this special week, I encourage you to reach out—via a quick email, a handwritten note, or a simple "thank you" in the hallway—to the teachers and staff members who have made a difference in your student’s life this year.

    Thank you for being such an integral part of our school community and for trusting us with your children’s education.

    Regards,

    Ruth Stephens Radle                     

    rstephensradle [at] campbellusd.org       

    Principal

    Pat Sieler 

    psieler [at] campbellusd.org

    Assistant Principal        

     

    Laura Hammersmith

    lhammersmith [at] campbellusd.org

    Dean of Students

     

    Updated Wed, May 6th

    April 22, 2026

    Dear Monroe Families,

    I hope this message finds you well. Please check out our website at monroe.campbellusd.org for up-to-date information, as well as be on the lookout for our communication that comes out on Wednesdays every two weeks.  For a student perspective on school news, please check out the Monday Minutes, our weekly student broadcast.

     

    Upcoming Events

    • Del Mar High School Cultural Fair, May 24th from 5-8 PM.  Please visit there website for more information.

    • Our final Cafecito for the year is May 6th at 8:30 AM- “Dreaming Big with our Teenagers” by 

    De Colores Collective: Join us for an inspiring presentation focused on reconnecting with your parenting journey and strengthening positive relationships with your teenager. Led by an experienced psychologist who will share powerful tools to support your family.

    • Spring Testing Schedule begins May 4th for all students.  8th-grade students begin on April 27th with the Science test. (See below for more details)

     

    Reminders:

    As we approach the midpoint of Trimester 3, we encourage you to check in with your students about their academic progress. This is a great time to log into PowerSchool together to review current work completion, grades, and upcoming tests.

    It is especially important to stay on track during these final months, as many of our end-of-year activities and celebrations have specific grade and behavioral requirements for participation. We want every Maverick to have the opportunity to join in these special events, and staying proactive now ensures they remain eligible.

    Quick Check-In Tips:

    • Review Grades Weekly: Ask your student to show you their current progress every Monday.

    • Discuss Deadlines: Check if there are any missing assignments that can still be submitted for credit.

    • Celebrate Growth: Acknowledge the hard work they’ve put in so far this trimester.

    • Support with PowerSchool: Please check in with our office team with questions.

    Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting your student’s success! 

     

    Health and Safety

    Report an absence, please call our 24-hour voicemail line at 408-341-7022 or monroe_attendance [at] campbellusd.org (when leaving a message or sending an email please let me know the student's first and last name, grade, and the reason for the absence)

    For information regarding the CUSD Attendance policy please click here

    ATTENDANCE MATTERS - REPORT STUDENT ABSENCES
    Students that are marked unexcused are unable to receive credit for assignments missed that day. If you call the school to verify your child’s absence with an allowed reason, your child can receive full credit for assignments missed that day. Please call the main office to report your child’s absence and refer to our student handbook for additional school policies.


    The Tdap vaccine and 2 doses of the chickenpox vaccine are required for all incoming 7th graders. 

    Please check your student's immunization records and/or check with your doctor. Please email murquhart [at] campbellusd.org () if you have any questions. 

     

    Principal's Corner

    We want to provide you with a clear roadmap for our upcoming state assessments. By now, you should have received a formal notification from the district regarding these evaluations, but we want to ensure you have our specific school-site details and dates.

    • 8th Grade Science (CAST): Begins April 27. Students will complete this assessment during their regular science periods with Mr. Pizzica or Mr. vanAken.

    • ELA & Math Assessments: These will be administered during a special block schedule to allow students ample time to focus.

    Date

    Testing Window

    May 4 & 5

    9:38 AM – 11:18 AM

    May 7 & 8

    9:38 AM – 11:18 AM

    May 11 & 12

    9:38 AM – 11:18 AM

    To help your student perform their best, we recommend:

    • Consistency: Ensuring they arrive at school on time, especially during the 9:38 AM testing block.

    • Rest: A good night’s sleep makes a world of difference for focus.

    • Tech Ready: Please remind students to bring their fully charged school-issued devices and headphones.

    • Appointments: Please try to schedule appointments outside the testing window.

    We appreciate your partnership in supporting our students during this season. If you have any questions regarding the schedule or specific testing accommodations, please feel free to reach out to the main office.

    Regards,

    Ruth Stephens Radle                     

    rstephensradle [at] campbellusd.org       

    Principal

    Pat Sieler 

    psieler [at] campbellusd.org

    Assistant Principal        

     

    Laura Hammersmith

    lhammersmith [at] campbellusd.org

    Dean of Students

     

     

    Updated Wed, May 6th

    School lunch is an important part of the school day because it gives students energy to learn and focus in class. In a student survey conducted by the leadership class, students shared their opinions on school lunch. The students provided honest feedback about what they enjoy and what they would like to change.

    The students’ favorite school lunches include pizza, grilled cheese with tomato soup, ramen, fruit, salad, parfaits, Taco-nadas, and carne asada tacos. They especially enjoy pepperoni pizza and would like to see it served more because pepperoni pizza often runs out more than cheese pizza. They also like having fruit and would enjoy more variety, such as fruit bowls and olives. The students mentioned that they prefer food that is fresh rather than frozen or overcooked.

    Some foods students do not enjoy include wings, hot dogs, corn dogs, pancakes with sausage, gravy with mashed potatoes, and leftover apples. They also said they would like fewer oranges served at lunch because many students do not like them or often leave them uneaten.

    When asked what they would like to see added to the menu, students suggested more tacos and a wider variety of cultural foods. They also think it would be nice to have Tajín packets available for fruit. In addition, they would like more side dishes, chips, and a greater variety of drinks instead of just milk.

    Overall, the students’ feedback shows that while they enjoy many school lunch options, there are clear areas for improvement. Adding more variety, cultural foods, and fresh options could make lunch more enjoyable and satisfying for everyone.

    By: Arianna M. and Azul A.

     

    Updated Mon, Apr 20th

    Adjusting to a new school can be challenging, especially when starting middle school. Compared to elementary, rules tend to be different and expectations are higher. Many sixth graders at Monroe learn how to balance managing these new responsibilities while getting used to a new environment.

     

    Many sixth graders have agreed that the increase in homework and other students were big adjustments. Sixth grader Jhenna stated, “The biggest change was the pressure of classwork. Also, I was definitely surprised by the amount of people.” They also shared that teachers were welcoming & supportive, allowing them to feel more comfortable as they settled in their new school.

     

    Another challenge many students agreed on was learning where everything was located, such as classrooms, the library, and the office. Even though it was a bit confusing at first, most students mentioned it was easy for them to adjust to this change. Other students also appreciated the more open environment of Monroe and felt as if it increased ‘freedom’ and it helped them become more independent.

     

    Even though the transition to middle school can feel overwhelming at first, most sixth graders have stated that it became easier over time. As they learn the layout of the school, adjust to their schedule & classes, make new friends, and get used to their new surroundings, many students start to feel more comfortable. By the end of the first few weeks of school, Monroe starts to feel less like a scary new place, and more of a place where students belong.

    By Leadership Students Hailey B. and Cali E