Superintendent's Office

Interim Superintendent's Message - December 12, 2025

Dear Pacifica School District Community,

Celebrating Community & Commemorating History

Dear Pacifica School District Students, Staff, Families, and Community Members,
I am writing to share my sincere appreciation and excitement regarding the recent Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day event on Thursday, November 14th. This important day provided a powerful opportunity for our community to come together to honor the courage and legacy of Ruby Bridges, who, at just six years old, became a pioneer of the Civil Rights Movement.

Community Participation and Partnership

It was a truly inspiring sight to see our students and staff joined by key local leaders who demonstrated their commitment to our students and the values of equity and inclusion.

• City Leadership: We appreciate the presence of Mayor Sue Beckmeyer, Vice Mayor Christine Boles, Council Member Mary Bier, Council Member Mayra Espinosa, and Council Member Greg Wright, underscores the strong partnership between the City of Pacifica and the Pacifica School District.
• Pacifica Police Department: The invaluable support and presence of the Pacifica Police Department helped ensure the safety of our students and amplified the event's positive impact. We specifically noted and appreciated the following highlights of their participation:
• Positive Interaction: The officers generously gave out high fives and positive encouragement to the students along the route. This simple gesture reinforced the importance of their courageous walk and helped create lasting, positive memories.
• Building Community: The opportunity for our students and participating adults to interact directly with the officers in a supportive and celebratory setting was highly beneficial. This type of community engagement is vital for building trust and fostering strong relationships between our schools and the Police Department.

Your department’s support in making the day safe and inspiring truly amplified the event’s
educational and community impact.

A Special Note of Thanks to Our School Teams

I would like to extend a special and heartfelt thank you to our principals, teachers, and all dedicated school staff across the Pacifica School District. The success of the Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day, and the deeply meaningful experience it provided for our students and families, is a direct result of your exceptional effort and dedication. Your meticulous planning, organization, and enthusiasm ensured that the event ran smoothly, and served as a powerful, positive learning experience for every child. Thank you for creating a truly great event that celebrates both history and community!

The Significance of the Walk

The Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day is an important observance for the District, teaching students about courage, equality, and the Civil Rights Movement. It encourages us to reflect on the historical struggle for equality and to carry forward the torch of courage, kindness, and inclusion in our schools every day. By walking together, we reinforce the message that every child belongs, and we are all responsible for creating a welcoming environment where diversity is celebrated. I extend my gratitude to all who organized, participated in, and supported this meaningful event. It is through these shared experiences that we strengthen the bonds of our Pacifica community and educate our future leaders.

Sincerely,
Dr. Carisa J. Bowman
Interim Superintendent
Pacifica School District