“A School Where Everyone Knows Your Name”
Imagine a school where every student is known by name, a place that nurtures young minds and helps them flourish in a global society. Welcome to Somis Union School District, a cornerstone of education in Somis, California. For over a century, this small yet vibrant district has provided a holistic learning environment that bridges academic excellence with community values.
Founded on February 6, 1895, the Somis Union School District has a proud legacy of educational excellence. The current school site, established in 1924, reflects over a century of commitment to nurturing young minds. This enduring tradition of excellence is grounded in the district’s mission to equip students with essential skills: to understand the world around them, think critically, communicate effectively, solve problems, and become productive, educated members of a global society.
From its inception, the district has fostered a family-oriented environment that blends tradition with innovation. Serving students from Transitional Kindergarten (TK) through eighth grade, Somis School provides families with a seamless educational journey, emphasizing continuity and personalized instruction.
Transformative Programs That Inspire
At the heart of Somis Union School District’s success are its transformative programs. These initiatives go beyond traditional academics, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and community engagement:
- Music Program (TK-12): This program covers all grades and encourages self-expression while fostering a lifelong appreciation for the arts. They learn performance, composition, and music theory, which prepares them for creative futures.
- Film and Drama: In these programs, students explore storytelling, acting, and production. They build confidence and teamwork skills, opening doors to careers in the arts.
- Outdoor Science Education: This program allows students to connect with nature through hands-on learning. They tackle real-world ecological challenges and nurture environmental stewardship and curiosity about science.
- Project-Based Learning: Students work on interdisciplinary projects that involve inquiry and problem-solving. This hands-on approach helps them succeed academically and in their future careers.
- Extended Day Learning (TK-8): Designed to support working families, these programs offer enriching activities beyond regular school hours, enhancing academic and social growth.
- Mentoring and Tutoring with CSU Channel Islands: In partnership with California State University, this initiative offers students one-on-one mentoring and tutoring. This partnership enhances academic achievement while providing CSUCI students with valuable teaching and mentoring experience.
- Summer Enrichment Program: In this program, students participate in cultural exchanges with teachers from the U.S. and Mexico. They receive bilingual education and enjoy creative activities, gaining different perspectives.
Besides, the district demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through the use of electric vehicles, promoting environmental awareness while ensuring safe and reliable transport for students. Nutrition is also prioritized with fresh, balanced meals that support students’ health and wellness.
A Community-Driven Admissions Process
Somis School values inclusivity and accepts students from the local area and nearby communities through an Interdistrict Transfer Process. This approach ensures that all families have equal access to the district’s excellent educational opportunities. The school focuses on personalized instruction and creates a caring environment where every child feels valued and supported.
Dedicated Educators Driving Student Success
At Somis School, the teaching staff is a cornerstone of the school’s success. All educators hold professional clear multiple-subject credentials, ensuring students receive instruction from highly qualified and dedicated teachers. These teachers are not only experts in their fields but are also committed to lifelong learning. They actively pursue professional development opportunities to enhance their skills, staying current with the latest educational practices to serve their students better. This dedication to growth reflects their passion for teaching and their unwavering commitment to providing the best educational experience possible.
The teachers’ strong work ethic and enthusiasm create a nurturing environment where every child feels valued and inspired to learn. Their approach goes beyond the classroom, fostering an atmosphere of continuous learning and growth, which contributes significantly to the success of Somis School’s students. It is clear that the faculty’s dedication is what makes the school truly exceptional.
Furthermore, the support staff plays an equally critical role by maintaining the campus’s cleanliness and safety, managing effective communication, and providing nutritious meals. Together, this team ensures a holistic educational experience for all students.
Dr. Jesus Arturo Vaca, the dynamic Superintendent and Principal of Somis School leads the charge with passion and commitment. His vision aligns with the district’s rich legacy: fostering an inclusive and innovative educational experience that prepares students to be lifelong learners and responsible global citizens.
Modernizing Education: The Campus Experience
In November 2013, Somis voters approved a $9 million GO bond with a 67% majority. As a result, modernization at Somis School continues to take place.
- Kinder and Primary Playgrounds: Safe, engaging spaces designed for the youngest learners.
- Futsal Court: A dedicated space for students to enjoy sports and physical activity, promoting teamwork and healthy lifestyles.
- Outdoor Science Lab: A hands-on learning space that brings science lessons to life, fostering curiosity and environmental awareness.
- Modern Classrooms: Classrooms with new furniture and tools to enhance learning.
- State-of-the-Art Security: Advanced security features to ensure a safe and secure campus for students, staff, and visitors.
- Upgraded Infrastructure: Better plumbing and electrical systems to support the growing school community.
These upgrades reflect a commitment to creating an innovative and safe environment where students can flourish. Specifically, with the bond money, a modern Futsal court was installed in 2022. In the summer of 2023, a major project was completed, including much-needed exterior paint, new cabinets, new blacktop, and paint. The school colors (blue and gold) have brightened the campus.
Recently, a new sound system and projection equipment were installed in the multipurpose room. New soccer goals have been purchased for physical education and after-school programs. New landscaping is next on the agenda. On behalf of the Board Members, Staff, and Students, the Somis community is thanked for their support and for ensuring students and staff have the facilities to offer the highest level of education.
Addressing Chronic Absenteeism
In a remarkable achievement, Somis School reduced chronic absenteeism by 15.8% in 2023-24, bringing it down to 8.4%. This success is attributed to tiered interventions, student and family engagement, and robust district support. Recognized by the County Superintendent of Schools, this accomplishment underscores the district’s commitment to student success and well-being.
A Culture of Inclusion
Celebrating the diverse heritage and traditions of its students, Somis Union School District fosters an inclusive environment that values every individual’s contributions. The Binational Summer Program is a prime example of this commitment. It provides students with engaging arts and cultural lessons through a teacher exchange program with Mexico. This initiative deepens students’ understanding of global perspectives while celebrating their unique identities.
Extracurricular Excellence
Somis School’s Extended Day and ASES programs provide students with opportunities to explore their interests and develop new skills. These programs focus on holistic development through activities such as gardening, STEM projects, art, 3D printing, and various sports. Both programs also offer extended learning hours.
In addition to extracurricular sports like soccer and flag football, students receive social-emotional support. The school psychologist and counselor provide comprehensive assistance through tailored individual and group sessions to address students’ social-emotional well-being.
Beyond these essential services, students actively contribute to the school community by leading initiatives such as establishing a school garden and organizing noontime activities to recognize and celebrate perfect attendance.
Key Achievements
Somis School recently achieved a high ranking in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Elementary Schools list. Additionally, the Somis Union School District has been recognized on the Educational Results Partnership’s 2024 Honor Roll, which highlights the top-performing school districts in California.
Leadership That Inspires
At the helm of Somis Union School District is Dr. Jesus Arturo Vaca, Superintendent, and Principal, whose vision and dedication have been instrumental in driving the district’s success. His message to students and parents emphasizes the importance of community involvement and personalized instruction:
“We encourage you to visit our beautiful school and see that we are committed to children, with a college and career focus. You will find that this is an energetic and engaging community of teachers and learners. One of our greatest strengths is our powerful family and community support.”
“We believe that your involvement is an essential component of the academic success of your child. I encourage you to visit our website often, meet your child’s teacher, and get engaged in all that Somis has to offer. We appreciate your active participation!”
“As the Superintendent/Principal, my door is always open to you. Educating children through exceptional school programs is our business and our passion. I look forward to meeting all of you and keeping our commitment to knowing all of our students by name.”
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Also Read: The 10 Most Admired School Districts in California.
