At Stockton Unified School District, education is more than academics — it’s about building strong relationships, creating meaningful opportunities and preparing students for a lifetime of success. SUSD continues to provide rich opportunities to grow and learn with students, families and staff. Built on joy, trust and belief in its collective commitment, this year’s powerful theme is Rising Stronger Together. SUSD is inspiring growth, achieving excellence and embracing change.
“We believe that every person in our educational ecosystem including students, families, staff and the community contributes to developing vibrant, confident students on the pathway to fulfilling their individual aspirations,” says Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michelle Rodriguez.
That vision is already taking shape. With the support of dedicated staff, community partners and families, SUSD has mobilized and will continue efforts to bridge the gap between its collective vision for the future and the implementation of equitable and culturally and linguistically relevant learning.
“Our commitment remains focused on the whole child, whole family and whole community while preparing all students for college, career and life.” — Dr. Michelle Rodriguez, SUSD Superintendent of Schools
“Our commitment remains focused on the whole child, whole family and whole community while preparing all students for college, career and life,” says Rodriguez.
Highlights of SUSD’s systemic transformation efforts include having the highest graduation rate in the history of SUSD. The district has also invested in safety systems including visitor management systems, entry access control and security cameras. It also has an enhanced curriculum of career technical education (CTE), music, theater, visual and media arts (ARTS) and ethnic studies.
SUSD offers CTE pathways in construction, agriculture, health, automotive, robotics and more. SUSD leaders say students are offered a pathway to fit their passions, interests and talents.
“We have pathways that provide students with hands-on, real-world experience that allow them to form a network of mentors to guide them into successful careers,” says Director of Career Technical Education Nathan Haley.
“When we put children first — when we care about them most — we make the best decisions,” says Rodriguez. “We pledge to collaborate with all stakeholders, listen actively and innovate to accelerate student success. Together, we are rising stronger together — inspiring growth, achieving excellence and embracing change.”
As SUSD rises stronger together this 2025/2026 school year, one thing is clear: the future belongs to every student and that future looks bright.
