Joy! Pure joy is what I’ve observed at the Homecoming warehouses as students work to get their Homecoming floats, dances, skits, lip-sync, and murals together! Although exhausting for these kids, parents, and staff, it is the ONE thing many graduates talk about when sharing their high school memories with me. This year is extra special for them because, although different from Homecomings in the past, they get to have a Homecoming! I want to invite you to the Ukiah High School Homecoming Parade and the Football Game next Friday, September 24th. Please join me in our community-wide dress-up day! Wear purple and gold next Friday to support the fantastic work of our students, their families, and faculty advisors!
Please take a moment to check in with your children and talk about the fires. My heart goes out to everyone affected by the fires. I’m so sorry we have to deal with this again after the trauma we’ve experienced in the past. For more information about addressing this tough subject with your children, here is a guide for Helping Children Cope After a Traumatic Event from the Child Mind Institute. We’re here for you. Please reach out to your school counselor if you need support.
Why do we open our schools as soon as possible after a tragic event like the Hopkins Fire? After a tragedy or crisis, school is the best place for our kids because it provides safety and a sense of normalcy for our students. The quicker we can safely re-open schools, the better it is for the social-emotional health of our kids. When life is chaotic, a return to school routines and the distraction of fellow students, teachers, and activities is a much-needed relief from the uncertainty and confusion involved with events like this. Additionally, we have counselors and support available on each campus to help children deal with challenging situations and answer questions. After the recent fires, we brought in additional counselors to support the schools most affected.
COVID-19 Testing Contact your child’s school for testing information. Regular COVID-19 testing is recommended for all Ukiah Unified students and staff, regardless of vaccination status. If you intend to have your child tested for COVID-19 at school, please complete the registration form for each child here.
Have a WONDERFUL weekend, and thank you so much for all of your support! –Deb
Important Links
Ukiah Unified COVID-19 Health Plan
View our complete plan
Parents must verify and update student information each year
Social-Emotional Support & Mental Health Resources
If your child is having difficulties, please reach out for help
Ukiah Unified COVID Response Website
Everything COVID-19 related
Ukiah Independent Study Academy (UISA) Information
Learn about independent study options and how to apply