Welcome back, LBUSD!

View Images, Videos and Media Coverage of the First Day of School

We Are Excited to Welcome Our Students Back to School

The air was buzzing with excitement as students across the Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) returned to school for the 2024-25 academic year. Smiling faces, racing hearts, and high-fives filled the campuses as students eagerly stepped foot back into their learning environments.

At Stephens Middle School, the recipient of the prestigious 2024 California Distinguished School Award, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric. Students were greeted with lively music, enthusiastic cheers, and the joyful sight of waving pom poms. Superintendent Dr. Jill Baker, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Tiffany Brown and members of the Senior Team added to the excitement, chanting alongside students and families as they entered the campus, setting the tone for an inspiring year ahead.

This year, as we continue to bring our Vision 2035 to life, we are thrilled to launch our 2024-2029 Strategic Plan: Creating a Better Future Together. Over the next five years, this plan will guide our actions to better prepare our students for the future, address historical inequity and transform our district into a liberatory/ equitable, affirming and forward-thinking organization. 

One of our key initiatives this year is implementing the new Equitable Grading Policy at all secondary schools. This policy, aligned with our commitment to excellence and equity, ensures that grading practices are fair, consistent and accurately reflect student learning while supporting their growth. Additionally, in the upcoming months, we will proudly open the Center of Black Student Excellence, a dedicated hub for resources, mentorship and community engagement, furthering our commitment to equity and inclusion across the district.

Superintendent Dr. Jill Baker expressed her enthusiasm for the new school year, stating, “We are beyond excited to welcome our students and families back to school! This year marks a significant step forward in our journey toward Creating a Better Future Together through Vision 2035. With the launch of our new Strategic Plan, the introduction of the Equitable Grading Policy, and the upcoming Center of Black Student Excellence, we are committed to providing an inclusive, equitable and high-quality education for all. Let’s make this year one to remember!”

Welcome back, LBUSD! Let’s embark on this incredible journey together, where every day brings new opportunities for learning, growth, success and infinite possibilities.