A Year-End Message from Board President Chris Norwood
As we close the 2025-26 school year, I find myself filled with gratitude, pride, and optimism for the future of Milpitas Unified School District.

This year, I had the privilege of witnessing countless examples of what makes MUSD special. Whether it was visiting classrooms, attending student performances, celebrating athletic achievements, recognizing volunteers and educators, or hearing directly from our students, one thing became abundantly clear:

The future is bright because of the people who make up our MUSD community.

Throughout this year, we continued our commitment to Building a Culture of We—a culture where every student is seen, every family is valued, every employee is appreciated, and every member of our community plays a role in helping students succeed.

That culture is not created by a strategic plan alone. It is built through relationships, trust, collaboration, and a shared belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive.

This year brought many accomplishments worth celebrating.

We saw Thomas Russell Middle School earn recognition as a California Distinguished School. Our students excelled in Science Olympiad, Speech and Debate, Model United Nations, mathematics competitions, music, athletics, visual and performing arts, and community service. Milpitas High School continued to expand opportunities for students through Advanced Placement courses, career pathways, dual enrollment opportunities, and extracurricular programs. Across the district, students demonstrated extraordinary resilience, creativity, leadership, and compassion.

We also continued investing in the future.

The opening of the Milpitas Performing Arts Center created new opportunities for artistic expression and community engagement. Our Innovation Campus continued to grow as a hub for workforce development, career exploration, dual enrollment, and innovative learning experiences. Students gained access to new pathways in STEM, esports, digital media, engineering, and career-connected learning that will prepare them for success in an ever-changing world.

At the same time, we remained focused on our core mission: ensuring every student has access to a high-quality education and the support they need to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.

Through our Local Control and Accountability Plan process, we listened to students, families, staff, and community members. Their voices continue to shape our priorities and guide our work. We know that learning happens best when students feel safe, connected, challenged, and supported. Our commitment to educational equity remains stronger than ever.

None of these accomplishments happen by accident.

I want to thank our outstanding teachers, classified professionals, administrators, and support staff who dedicate themselves every day to serving our students. Your passion, expertise, and commitment make an incredible difference in the lives of young people.

I would also like to extend a special and heartfelt thank you to our retirees. This year, we celebrate a remarkable group of educators, support staff, administrators, and employees who have dedicated decades of service to the students and families of Milpitas Unified School District. Collectively, you have helped shape generations of learners, strengthened our schools, and built the foundation upon which our district stands today. Your impact extends far beyond classrooms and campuses—it lives on in the success of thousands of students, the traditions you helped create, and the culture of excellence you nurtured over many years.

Many of our retirees have devoted 20, 30, and even 40 years of service to public education. They have taught lessons that students still remember, coached teams that built confidence and character, directed performances that inspired audiences, and supported families during some of life's most important moments. They helped create the reputation and brand of excellence that Milpitas Unified School District enjoys today.

On behalf of the Board of Education and the entire MUSD community, thank you for your extraordinary service, commitment, and legacy. While retirement marks the end of one chapter, please know that MUSD will always be your home. We hope you continue to attend our performances, athletic events, graduations, and celebrations. We look forward to staying connected and celebrating your continued contributions to our community in the years ahead.

I also want to thank Superintendent Cheryl Jordan for her exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to students, staff, and families. Super shoutout to the man who keeps the positive news circulating throughout the community - Board Communication Specialist Scott "Washington Redskins Fan" Forstner. Together with our dedicated Board of Education, they continue to move our district forward while remaining focused on what matters most: student success.

To our families and community partners, thank you for your trust, support, and partnership. Education is a team effort, and our students benefit when schools and communities work together.

Most importantly, I want to thank our students.

You inspire us every day.

Your achievements remind us why this work matters. Your dreams challenge us to think bigger. Your perseverance motivates us to continue improving and innovating.

As we look ahead, we know there will be challenges. But we also know that MUSD has never been defined by obstacles. We are defined by how we come together to overcome them.

The 2025-26 school year demonstrated what is possible when we lead with purpose, embrace innovation, and remain committed to one another.

Together, we are preparing students not only for graduation, but for life.

Together, we are creating pathways to college, career, leadership, and service.

Together, we are building a stronger Milpitas.

And together, we will continue Building a Culture of We.

Thank you for an incredible year.

Have a safe, restful, and joyful summer.

With gratitude and optimism,

Chris Norwood
President, Board of Education
Milpitas Unified School District

#WeAreMilpitasUnified