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Community Cornerstone from Supt. Dr. Tracy Smith - September 3, 2026

Posted Date: 09/03/26 (11:44 AM)


Community Cornerstone

from Superintendent Dr. Tracy Smith

September 3, 2026
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Dear NUSD Community,

I want to extend my deepest appreciation for the incredible effort that goes into preparing and delivering Back to School Night presentations. From our teachers and administrators to our support staff, so much hard work happens behind the scenes to make these events informative and welcoming. Meeting the dedicated staff who will be your partners as we navigate the educational systems together is essential to building a strong, collaborative community for our students. We have provided a list of Back to School Nights in this newsletter.

As we look ahead, we also want to address an important reality facing our district. This year, NUSD is navigating significant financial challenges. Ensuring the long-term strength and stability of our schools requires transparent communication and community involvement. Find out more about our current budget landscape by watching the updates provided by our Chief Financial Officer, Joshua Braff, at our Board meetings. Your input and partnership will be invaluable as we work through these decisions together.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to our students and schools. I wish everyone a wonderful, restful, and happy Labor Day weekend with family and friends!

Warmly,

Dr. Tracy Smith
Superintendent, Novato Unified School District

Budget Update from September 1, 2026 Board Meeting

Chief Financial Officer, Joshua Braff, explains how enrollment changes the financial outlook in our district budget and why school closures are not part of any solution for Novato Unified School District. You may watch his presentation by clicking here and going to minute 17:31. 

E-Bikes Are Here. Let's Ride Smart.

For students who live far from school or face hilly terrain, e-bikes can be a great solution for getting there independently. If that's your family, a Class 1 pedal-assist e-bike is the safest option for younger and newer riders. Like any new skill, riding well takes practice and the right foundation, and the stakes are real: kids ages 10–15 are five times more likely than other age groups to need an ambulance after an e-bike crash.

That's why Marin County's Safe Routes to Schools program works with schools countywide to build the skills, awareness, and confidence students need to ride responsibly. From bike handling and road awareness to choosing the right e-bike for your child's age and skill level, we're here to help families make informed decisions together. Before your student heads out, be sure to check your school's recommended route to school

Learn more about e-bike safety at saferoutestoschools.org/e-bike-education

Back to School Nights

Below are the dates for the upcoming Back-to-School Nights. 

Tuesday, September 8, 2026; 6 PM
  • Early Intervention
  • Lynwood Elementary School

Wednesday, September 9, 2026; 6 PM
  • Hamilton TK-8 School
  • Loma Verde Elementary School
  • Lu Sutton Elementary School
  • Olive Elementary School
  • Pleasant Valley Elementary School
  • Rancho Elementary School
  • San Ramon Elementary School
  • Marin Oaks High School

Thursday, September 10, 2026; 6 PM
  • San Jose Middle School
  • Sinaloa Middle School

Thursday, September 17, 2026; 6 PM
  • Novato High School
  • San Marin School

All schools will have a minimum day on Friday, September 11 as well. Please check with your school site for the dismissal time.