Superintendent’s Fall 2026 Welcome Message

Dear Duarte Unified Families, Staff, Students, and Community,

Welcome to Duarte Unified School District! It is an honor to serve as Superintendent and to be part of a community that cares deeply about its students, its schools, and one another.

Since joining Duarte Unified, I have had the opportunity to spend time in classrooms, meet with students and staff, connect with families, and work alongside our community partners. What continues to stand out to me is the tremendous heart of our district and the commitment of our people to creating the very best opportunities for every student.

As we begin the 2026–27 school year, our theme is Better Together. It reflects a simple belief: our greatest impact happens when we work together, with students at the center of our decisions.

Across Duarte Unified, we are focused on strengthening teaching and learning, expanding college and career opportunities, supporting student well-being and belonging, and building strong partnerships with our families and community. We are also committed to responsible stewardship of our resources and to ensuring that our schools are places where students and staff can learn, grow, and thrive.

Duarte Unified is a small district with big opportunities. From our innovative academies to the future-focused pathways, early college opportunities, athletics, arts, and programs available to our high school students, we want every student to discover their strengths, pursue their interests, and see a future filled with possibility.

None of this work happens alone. It takes talented educators and staff, engaged families, supportive community partners, a committed Board of Education, and, most importantly, students who inspire us every day.

I am proud of the work underway across Duarte Unified and excited about our future. Thank you for being part of our community and for partnering with us as we continue building a district where every student is known, supported, challenged, and prepared for what comes next.

We truly are Better Together.

Warmly,

Jessica Medrano, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Duarte Unified School District