Year 2 Overview

One of the most lasting ways the Community Schools Initiative supports student success is through what happens every day in the classroom. One approach we use is community and project-based learning, which connects what students are learning in each grade to real-world experiences such as visits from community speakers, field trips, and class projects that reflect students’ own interests and identities. You can see an example of this work from our campus on our Grade 3 PBL website.

Priority Focus: Academic Success 

Our families and students shared that they wanted more opportunities for sports at Walker on our 2025 Needs and Assets Survey. We took this feedback to heart, and this school year we’ve expanded our after-school sports options! So far, we’re offering AYSO soccer, VEBA basketball, and VEBA volleyball. We’re excited to share that 40% of our students are now participating in sports programs.

Priority Focus: Enrichment

Student Council has been part of our campus for many years, but this school year our School Coordinator has been working alongside our School Counselor to bring new energy to the program. Our Student Council members now lead the morning announcements each day and are building the skills and confidence to lead our Friday assemblies as well.

Priority Focus: Enrichment, Engagament

On our 2025 Needs and Assets Survey, our school staff shared that they wanted students to have a more engaging and fun recess experience each day. Over the summer, our School Coordinator worked to make that vision a reality so that staff returned to campus with a plan already in place. From the very first day of school, our field has been open for play, which is something new for our campus, and it has been wonderful for both students and staff. We have also added new signage and purchased additional equipment to make recess even more enjoyable for everyone.

Priority Focus: Enrichment

Our community was excited to have the chance to come on campus before the school year officially began. Families and students met their teachers, picked up books and backpacks, and enjoyed a sweet treat from Kona Ice. It was a wonderful event, with more than 400 community members in attendance.

Priority Focus: Engagement

We want to celebrate our students and families who are coming to school each and every day! Throughout the school year, our School Coordinator is organizing special events to encourage strong attendance and to connect with families who are already making great choices about being at school consistently.

Priority Focus: Academic Success, Engagement

The Eagle Endeavors group is made up of Walker staff and family members who are working together to better understand our school community’s needs. This year, the group is taking a closer look at the 2025 Needs and Assets Survey to identify the root causes of some of the challenges we see on campus. Throughout the school year, we will use research-based strategies to create and track meaningful solutions.

Priority Focus: Academic Success, Engagement, Enrichment

Our School Coordinator is making sure that all staff voices are heard throughout the Community Schools Initiative process. Staff are engaged not only through Eagle Endeavors but also during operational meetings and professional development sessions. This includes sharing updates about what is happening on campus and gathering input from staff. Presentations can be found here. This approach ensures that every staff member has the opportunity to share their thoughts and feedback.

Priority Focus: Engagement

Many families shared on the 2025 Needs and Assets Survey that they would like their students to have more assemblies and field trips. In partnership with our School Counselor, we are working to provide each grade level with at least one additional assembly and one field trip this school year. We are also partnering with local organizations that offer low- or no-cost programs for our students, and we are excited to have already secured partnerships with six organizations!

Priority Focus: Enrichment, Academic Success

Engagement is a top priority on our campus! We want our current families to feel connected to all that is happening at Walker, and we also want the broader Mira Mesa community to feel included and informed. To keep everyone up to date, we share news and updates through Instagram (NEW), ClassDojo, and email. These channels help families and community members stay connected to events, student achievements, and opportunities to get involved.

Priority Focus: Engagement