Newsletter

Newsletter

Hi Cold Spring families,

I returned late last night from the annual conference of the Small School Districts’ Association (SSDA), which represents districts serving 2,500 students or fewer, about 60% of the districts in California. It was an inspiring few days connecting with over 500 educational leaders from across the state who are deeply committed to ensuring small districts continue to thrive. I’m honored to currently serve as Vice President of the SSDA Board and Chair of the Legislative & Policy Committee, where we advocate for policies that support small school districts and the students and families we serve.

One highlight of the conference was a panel discussion featuring former State Senator Josh Newman, who is currently running for California State Superintendent of Public Instruction. Senator Newman is a great friend of Cold Spring and a strong supporter of the innovative work happening here. I was thrilled to have him join us at our AI Summit last summer, and I am excited that he plans to return again this year. It was also wonderful to connect with Christian Jackson from Edapt, who continues to support districts across California and the nation as they thoughtfully implement artificial intelligence in schools.

Another fun highlight was an early 6:00 a.m. run with a few superintendents around the Capitol in Sacramento, about four miles with some bright neon swag thanks to the time change! It was a great way to start the day and connect with colleagues in a more informal way.

In addition to the conference, I supported our legislative advocacy day, where we had 12 scheduled meetings with members of the legislature and the Department of Finance. Some of the key issues we are working on include:

  • Support for “necessary small schools” — advocating for an additional 20% funding increase for very small districts serving low-socioeconomic communities to ensure educational equity.

  • Reducing administrative burden — currently districts must complete more than 120 different state plans. We are advocating for consolidation so educators can spend more time working directly with students.

  • Increased special education funding — special education is currently funded at about 40% of the actual cost, and we are advocating for progress toward full funding to better support students with special needs.

  • Expanded professional learning for educators — ensuring teachers and leaders continue to grow and learn just as we ask our students to do.

With over 1,400 Assembly and Senate bills currently in discussion, we will continue monitoring legislation closely as the state budget process unfolds and the Governor releases the May Revision.

Thank you for being such an incredible community and for your continued partnership in supporting our students and staff. I’m looking forward to finishing this trimester strong together.

My best,

Dr. Alzina


The Variety Show is Tomorrow!

Variety Show

Friendly Reminder: Dolphin Center will not be attending the Variety Show. If your child would like to be in the audience, please plan accordingly. Students will not be signed out to attend unless they are picked up by a parent or guardian.


Please Complete the Intent to Enroll Survey

As we begin planning for the 2026–2027 school year, we kindly ask that each family complete the Intent to Enroll form to let us know your plans for next year. Please take a moment to complete the form by Friday, March 13th to help us with planning and staffing for next year. Thank you for your time and for being part of our school community!


March 17th School Tour


Yearbook Cover Design Contest

Yearbook Cover ContestCalling all student artists! We are hosting a Yearbook front and back cover design contest for the 4th-6th graders.

Submit an original design that reflects our school spirit and what the school means to you. Turn in your hand drawn artwork with your name and grade to your class teacher by April 7.

Please indicate whether it is for the front cover or the back cover. You can submit a design for one or both.

We are looking forward to your creative submissions!


Conference Week


Spring Break