MARYSVILLE, CA (MPG) - Leaders at the Marysville Joint Unified School District have cause for celebration. Marysville Joint Unified School District is one of just three districts recognized out of 89 statewide for their commitment to SIP's mission and was honored on April 9 with the Heart of Inclusion Award by SIP (Supporting Inclusive Practices), a statewide non-profit. 

SIP, partially funded by the California Department of Education, is dedicated to equipping school districts with training and resources to ensure students with disabilities flourish academically and beyond. "As educators, our greatest achievement is in creating environments where every student can thrive,” said Fal Asrani, Superintendent for Marysville Joint Unified School District. “Receiving this award for inclusion is a testament to the dedication of our entire school community in ensuring that every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential."

MJUSD became a study site for SIP during the 2019-2020 school year, sparking the district's initiative to integrate inclusive practices into its educational framework. Ella, Linda, Olivehurst, and Kynoch Elementary Schools have seamlessly incorporated SIP strategies into their preschool classroom settings. This practice aims to provide students with special needs equal access to opportunities and foster their success within traditional classroom environments. 

"Our team's unwavering dedication and relentless determination throughout the three-year journey of implementing this project have been unparalleled," remarked Jolie Critchfield, Director of Early Education at MJUSD. "The commitment of our staff to mastering inclusive practices through ongoing professional development and peer coaching, aimed at empowering them to effectively engage with all students and foster vital skills for academic and life success, has been truly exceptional."

Special Education Director, Shevaun Matthews, was also invited earlier this year to present the district's practice at a conference in Southern California.

In the 2022-23 academic year, MJUSD initiated the process to take back the district's Special Education programs operated by Yuba County Office of Education and the first program was the Preschool program. This award underscores the importance of serving students with special needs within regular school campuses, ensuring access to tailored educational opportunities. MJUSD eagerly anticipates operating the additional special education programs that have now returned to the district. In 2024-25, the district will operate all the secondary programs and the following year will complete all elementary program transfers. MJUSD remains committed to furthering inclusive practices across all its programs.