Educational Services

Educational Services Department

Educational Services supports high-quality teaching and learning across all schools, ensuring that every student receives rigorous, engaging instruction and the support they need to thrive.

How We Support the District:

Curriculum and instruction oversight
Professional development for educators
Assessment and accountability
Multilingual learner supports
Instructional materials adoption
Expanded learning programs
Family and community engagement

Quick Links:

Contact Info:
Katie Sommer
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services
(707) 472-5053
[email protected]

Transitional Kindergarten (TK)

With the passage of the 2021-2022 California budget, Transitional Kindergarten will be expanded, with full implementation of Universal TK slated for the 2025-26 school year. Expansion began in 2022-23 and incrementally increases eligibility for TK based on children’s birthdates until Universal TK is achieved by 2025-26 and will include all children who turn four before September 1 of the current school year.

What is Transitional Kindergarten?

Transitional Kindergarten is a bridge between preschool and kindergarten for children turning five between September 2, 2024, through June 2, 2025. It provides young learners a head start and the opportunity to learn and grow in an environment that is tailored to meet their academic and social needs.

The TK curriculum is a blend of California Common Core Kindergarten standards and the CA Preschool Foundations for five-year-olds. The TK program gives students an additional opportunity to continue to build their skills and abilities. Their time in TK will help them to succeed in Kindergarten, become leaders in the classroom, and confidently navigate the school day routine.

The TK class provides more opportunities for social-emotional and language development, including mathematics functions through interactive, hands-on activities, which help students develop and build upon existing skills to be successful in kindergarten, and stimulating classroom centers, which focus on science, mathematics, writing, arts and crafts, and community role play.

TK is part of the public school system and is free to participating students. Registration in the program is optional. Students attend the one-year program and the following year begin Kindergarten. Credentialed teachers using the district-adopted curriculum teach Transitional Kindergarten.

Registration for the 2025-26 School Year

For the upcoming school year, parents of students who turn five between September 2, 2024, and June 2, 2025, may choose to register their children for TK, which is part of the public school system and is free to participating students. Contact your child’s school directly if you have any questions.

Dual Language Immersion Plan (DLIP)

The Dual Language Immersion Program is a “choice” program that serves both Engish and Spanish learners. This program is open to students throughout the District and has been designed to maximize the benefits of second language learning for student participants, based on the premise that the earlier a child is introduced to a language, the greater the likelihood that the child will become truly proficient.

The Ukiah Unified School District will continue to support the development of its unique Dual Language Immersion Program as part of a growing movement recognizing the importance of supporting and promoting multilingualism.

Dual Language Immersion Plan in English | In Spanish

Gifted and Talented Education

At Ukiah Unified School District, we are committed to supporting the unique needs of gifted and talented students. Guided by the State of California's standards, we identify gifted and talented students through universal screening assessments to ensure a fair and comprehensive process.

We believe that the best way to nurture the abilities of gifted and talented students is through differentiated instruction within the classroom. Our educators are trained to provide challenging and engaging learning opportunities tailored to each student's strengths and potential.

For more information about our gifted and talented services, please contact Kara Blanco, Director of Instruction and Curriculum, at [email protected].

Math, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA)

Math, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) was designed to meet the needs of deserving, capable students who were typically under-represented in college admissions. Students in this program are expected to do the following:

Maintain above-average grade point averages of 3.0 and above
Take the classes required to attend college
Perform community service
Be role models on campus

MESA provides supervised study groups, motivational guest speakers, industry and college field trips, student recognition, and assistance with college and scholarship applications, as well as the opportunity for hands-on competition.

Ukiah High School MESA students attend the University of California and California State University campuses at a 30% higher rate than non-participants. High school MESA students receive leadership opportunities, scholarships, and letters of recommendation.

Students can participate during school at Pomolita Middle School and Ukiah High, where MESA is offered as an elective class. Students at Eagle Peak Middle School can attend an after-school MESA program.

If you have any questions about this program, please contact David Weber.

Redwood Valley Outdoor Education Project (RVOEP)

The Redwood Valley Outdoor Education Project (RVOEP) is a community-supported environmental education program of the Ukiah Unified School District (UUSD). Located on 45 acres of mixed oak woodland bordered by the west fork of the Russian River, it is a place where students can directly experience the natural world. They learn how to use eagle eyes, deer ears, and put on silent magic slippers to discover vital lessons found in nature. During the winter months environmental education is brought into the classroom by the RVOEP staff.

RVOEP is a Project where:

Over 2,000 UUSD students directly experience the natural world.
Young people learn about community and interdependence.
Students are instilled with a sense of stewardship and caring for the earth.
Curiosity is sparked.
Students hone their senses, practice observation, and engage in the scientific process.
The present generation passes on a legacy of our natural world to future generations.

English Learner & Migrant Education

English Learner & Migrant Education
Our English Learner & Migrant Education team ensures that students learning English or experiencing frequent relocations due to migratory work are supported with targeted services, high‑quality instruction, and meaningful family engagement.

How We Support the District:

Provide tailored instructional strategies and professional development to help English Learners accelerate language proficiency and succeed academically
Administer the District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC), guiding district plans, needs assessments, reclassification criteria, and notifications
Coordinate the Migrant Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) to engage migrant families in program planning and improvement
Identify and recruit eligible migratory students through outreach and region‑wide coordination
Deliver supplemental supports—academic tutoring, health and social services, enrichment programs, and after‑school opportunities—to mitigate disruptions from frequent moves
Partner with educators and families to assess needs and maintain equity‑focused compliance with Title III, LCFF, and federal guidelines under ESEA and California regulations

Quick Links:

DELAC Agendas and Minutes
English Learner Master Plan & Needs Assessment