Welcome to the 2011-2012 School Year

To all of our students, parents, staff, and community members, welcome to the 2011-12 school year in Milpitas Unified School District! I am thrilled to serve as your new superintendent and look forward to getting to know you and the entire Milpitas community. By way of background, I am beginning my thirty-second year in education, with the majority of my time spent in districts in Santa Clara County. I taught for seventeen years at the middle and high school levels, teaching sciences, math, and computer science. I have been an assistant principal at Lynbrook High School, district coordinator in Fremont Union High School District, and principal of Cupertino High School. My last position was superintendent of Los Gatos – Saratoga High School District so I know and understand the importance of education in the context of Silicon Valley. 

My priority as superintendent is to create the best possible learning environment for students and staff. Teaching and learning involve two key individuals – the student and the teacher. Our students are the future. They will become the workers, leaders, and members of society that we need to sustain a strong nation. Each student represents the hopes and dreams of parents, and we will do all that we can to work with parents to help each student develop their talents and dreams. As I get to know the teachers of Milpitas Unified, I am encouraged by their commitment to teach and support all students. This is a great school district, and I look forward to creating a future filled with hope and progress. 

The economy and state budget continue to be a challenge, but the board of trustees and management team have positioned the district to weather this extended recession. The district has made financial decisions to protect the integrity of the learning environment for students and they will continue to receive an excellent education. We are grateful for the expression of support for Milpitas Unified through the recently passed parcel tax in June 2010. Your local tax dollars make an immediate positive impact every year and help us sustain the excellent programs that our students enjoy. 

Finally, school opens on Monday, August 29th. You will be receiving communication from your local school as we prepare for the year. Thank you for reading, and once again, welcome to the 2011-12 school year. 

Cary Matsuoka 
Superintendent