IUSD Insights

An Unwavering Commitment to Arts Education

On Tuesday, April 16, more than 600 IUSD students will participate in the 40th Annual Donald Bren Honors Concert at the Renée & Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. The Bren Honors Concert is a signature event for the District and a reflection of IUSD’s commitment to music and the arts.

This annual concert is the result of months of planning and practice by both students and our music educators. The Bren Honors Concert is also made possible by the generosity of the Irvine Company, which has committed to contribute nearly $50 million over 20 years through the Excellence in Education Enrichment Fund to ensure that every student in grades four through six receives instruction from highly qualified teachers in art, science and music. More...

Proposition 28: A Boost for Arts Education in IUSD

In 2022, California voters resoundingly approved Proposition 28: The Arts and Music in Schools (AMS) Funding Guarantee and Accountability Act. For IUSD, these funds augment the District’s existing investments and commitment to the arts by providing additional opportunities and enrichment for students. Leveraging Prop. 28 funds, IUSD has hired full-time arts teachers and expanded arts instruction. From doubling visual art lessons for pre-kindergarten to 6th grade to introducing innovative classes and programs at the secondary level, IUSD has embraced a multifaceted approach to using the funds to enhance the educational experiences for all students. More...

IUSD’s Sustainability Initiatives Aim to Forge a Greener Future
Insights with Sustainability Supervisor, Jennifer Razo

In celebration of Earth Month, IUSD Insights sat down with Sustainability Supervisor, Jennifer Razo, to delve into the innovative sustainability initiatives at IUSD. Earth Day, observed annually on April 22nd, serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting our planet and inspiring action to address environmental challenges. Razo discusses IUSD’s Sustainability Steering Committee, carbon-negative goals, what school sites are doing to help reduce their carbon footprint and more! More...

You’re Invited to the IUSD Abilities Awareness Event!

Save the date! The Irvine Unified School District’s Special Education Department and Community Advisory Committee are hosting a free Abilities Awareness Event on Wednesday, April 24 from 5-7:30 p.m. at Woodbridge High School! More...

Senate Bill 906: Safe Storage of Firearms 

With the passage of Senate Bill 906, California’s schools and districts are required to notify families annually about safe gun storage. In addition to providing this information in the District’s Annual Notification to Parents prior to the start of each school year, the Irvine Police Department has also provided some basic safety rules and tips for parents. Please read this article for more information and for additional safety tips related to toy gun safety and the nationwide game known as “Water Wars” or “Senior Assassins.” More...

Supporting Student Success: Mental Health and Academic Resources in IUSD

As we near the end of another school year and amidst the busyness of academic commitments and end-of-year activities, we would like to remind our families of the mental health and academic supports available through IUSD. Care Solace provides free and confidential connections to outside mental health providers. Additionally, to enhance student and parent access to mental health and wellness services, IUSD has established Speak Up, We Care. Alongside these initiatives, academic resources such as Khan Academy and Paper Tutoring are available to help alleviate stress and support academic success. Amidst busy schedules, we encourage you to slow down and prioritize self-care. More...