Thursday, Aug. 6 saw students at all grade levels returning to the various campuses within the Escalon Unified School District for opening day of the 2026-27 school year.
“The opening of a new school year is always a special time, and this year was no exception. Across our district, the energy on our campuses was overwhelmingly positive, and it was clear that our students were excited to be back in school, reconnecting with friends, teachers, and the school communities they know and love,” District Superintendent Ricardo ‘Ricky’ Chavez said. “I had the opportunity to visit all of our school sites alongside our Board President (Kate Powell) and Vice President (Martha Coelho). From our elementary schools to our high schools, we were welcomed by enthusiastic students, dedicated teachers, and staff who were ready to make the first day a memorable one.”
In addition to it being the first day back for students, several new teachers have joined the staff for the EUSD, filling spots on multiple campuses.
At the elementary level, new teachers are: Lynnelle Madsen, special education, Dent; Annie Wyrick, art, Dent, Van Allen, Collegeville and Farmington; Sonia Soares-Tinajero, speech language pathologist, Dent and Farmington; Angelica Vargas, fourth grade, dual language immersion, Collegeville.
For the middle school, joining the staff are: Celia Perez, seventh and eighth grade math; Christine Champion, eighth grade history; Sari Holbrook, seventh and eighth grade science; Corina Roberson, sixth grade math and science; Bonnie Krieger, sixth grade English language arts and social studies; Eleonor Sotelo, sixth through eighth grade resource teacher.
New teachers at Escalon High School are: Diamond Rogers, English; Beau Beavers, special education.
Welcomed to the staff at Gateway Charter Academy as consulting teachers are: Tiana Houx, Laura Skavdahl, Ashley Howell, Allie Briceno.
Making the move to Escalon High School to serve as principal is Mark Vos, leaving his post as Assistant District Superintendent. Chavez is filling both the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent roles currently, as the search continues for a new Assistant Superintendent.
Joining Vos at EHS as assistant principal is Sammy Mahmud.
Overall, said Chavez, the first day of school for EUSD was classified as a success.
“One of the most rewarding parts of the day was seeing our youngest learners in transitional kindergarten and kindergarten. Their excitement as they entered their classrooms and explored their new surroundings was a wonderful reminder of why the start of a school year is so meaningful,” Chavez noted. “Teachers and staff greeted students with open arms, creating a welcoming environment where students could feel comfortable, supported, and ready to learn.”
During the summer, projects were done at the campuses to get them ready for the first day as well, with the goal of providing a safe and productive environment for all students.
“As EUSD’s superintendent, visiting our campuses on the first day provides a unique opportunity to see the heart of our schools firsthand. What stood out most was the sense of excitement, connection, and belonging that was evident across every school site,” Chavez added. “Our staff has worked incredibly hard to prepare for the year, and their commitment to our students was visible throughout the day. It was truly a fantastic opening day for our entire district. We are excited about the year ahead and look forward to the many opportunities, accomplishments, and memories our students and staff will create together.”
