District News

On Wednesday, October 8, the Westminster School District community came together to celebrate National Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day — a joyful morning filled with movement, smiles, and shared purpose.

Across our campuses, students and families arrived on foot, by bike, and on scooters, joining a national effort to promote healthy living and safe routes to school. What made the event truly special was not just the energy of our students, but the spirit of collaboration among families, local police departments, and city partners who all came together to make the day meaningful and safe.

"Walk and Roll to School Day brings our community together in the best way,” said Principal Pam LeMuiex. “Families, staff, and our city partners all shared one goal—to start the day with movement, smiles, and a commitment to keeping our students healthy and safe."

Local police officers and city staff joined the fun, bringing safety tips and special giveaways for participants. Their support underscored Westminster School District’s strong partnerships with the community — a cornerstone of our district’s mission to nurture the whole child through collaboration, engagement, and care.

“As the premier Prek-8 district in Orange County, Westminster School District staff, students and families are pleased to partner with the City of Westminster and Westminster PD to provide a safe and engaging experience for Walk, Bike, and Roll to School emphasizing safe passages to school every day, each day to reinforce regular attendance and educational achievement,” said Superintendent Gunn Marie Hansen.  “With the support of our School Resource Officers and enhanced wellness and safety program, our students attend the safest school district in Orange County.  Thank you to all the partners for making this possible!”

The event also helped raise awareness about traffic safety, encouraging families to consider alternative ways of getting to school while reducing congestion around campuses. More importantly, it gave students the chance to start their day with movement, laughter, and fresh air — habits that inspire lifelong wellness.

From parents cheering on sidewalks to teachers greeting walkers at the gates, National Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day reflected Westminster School District’s dedication to building a connected, healthy, and active community.

Every fall, the Westminster community comes together for a weekend of music, food, and family fun. This year, Westminster School District (WSD) was proud to partner with the City of Westminster at the 4th Annual Fall Festival, held September 25–28 at the Westminster Civic Center.

On the festival’s Cultural Night, students from across WSD took the stage with performances that blended talent and cultural pride. Their energy reminded the community that learning extends far beyond the classroom—it flourishes when students share their voices, gifts, and traditions.

One of the evening’s highlights was the performance by the Vietnamese Culture Club from DeMille My Viet Language Academy. As the first Vietnamese cultural program of its kind at the elementary level, this after-school club—led by dedicated parents and supported by staff—provides 1st through 5th graders with meaningful experiences in Vietnamese language and cultural arts. Their performance was a powerful celebration of cultural and community pride.

Also taking the stage were students from the Spanish Dual Immersion program at Willmore Language Academy, who performed three traditional dances from Mexico. Their joyful and energetic presentation reflected the strength of cultural education and the passion our students bring to learning and performing.

Representing our middle school community, Ballet Folklórico Los Pumas de Stacey, part of the Spanish Dual Immersion program at Stacey Middle School, delivered a dynamic performance of traditional Jalisco dances, including La Madrugada, El Gavilancillo, and Los Alazanes. Their colorful costumes and spirited choreography brought the audience to life.

The celebration also coincided with Hispanic Heritage Month, making the event especially meaningful. WSD is proud to honor the histories, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans—both in classrooms and across the city. From our Dual Language Immersion programs in Spanish and Vietnamese to culturally responsive teaching, WSD continues to elevate student voices while celebrating the diversity that shapes Westminster.

“We are very grateful for WSD’s partnership,” shared a City of Westminster staff member. “Having WSD’s students at our events brings a sense of community, highlights the importance of education, and shows what community is really about—the diverse cultures.” 

Beyond student performances, the Fall Festival was a true celebration of unity. With live entertainment, local vendors, raffles, delicious food, and family fun, it became a gathering place where schools and families lifted one another up.

“People here know each other. At WSD, we are truly focused on building community—bringing teachers from across the district together, helping them connect at events, and showing them what we do well. The experience is fabulous.” reflected by Trustee Tina Gustin-Gurney. 

As families gathered at the festival, one message was clear: every performance, handshake, and smile represented something greater—the power of community to elevate opportunity for students to thrive. 

“The Fall Festival was a beautiful reminder of how our Dual Language Immersion programs, and all of WSD’s specialty programs, elevate our students’ voices and celebrate their cultural heritage” WSD Chief Academic Officer Michelle Watkins said. “From Vietnamese and Spanish DLI performances to our vibrant Early Learning, VAPA, GATE, and STEAM programs, we are proud to showcase how education, culture, and community come together to create opportunities for every child to thrive.”

At Westminster School District (WSD), safety and belonging are at the heart of everything we do. This commitment was recently honored when 16 of our schools received statewide recognition from the California PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) Coalition.

From Platinum to Bronze, every campus was celebrated for creating positive school environments that prioritize safety, inclusion, and student well-being. This recognition reaffirms WSD’s standing as the safest elementary school district in Orange County—and a leader in anti-bullying programs that truly make a difference in students’ lives.

“Having all Westminster School District schools recognized with PBIS awards is a testament to the strong relationships among staff, students, and families,” shared Superintendent Dr. Gunn Marie Hansen. “Together, we are creating award-winning anti-bullying programs that lead to student success.”

Award Highlights

• Platinum: Stacey Middle School, Warner Middle School
   
• Gold: Finley Computer Science Magnet, Fryberger Elementary, Anderson Elementary, Clegg Elementary, Meairs Elementary, Hayden Elementary, Schmitt Elementary, Schroeder College and Career Academy, Sequoia Gate Magnet, Webber Elementary, Willmore Language Academy
   
• Silver: DeMille Mỹ Việt Language Academy, Johnson Middle School
   
• Bronze: Eastwood Elementary

This recognition reflects more than awards—it’s a reflection of WSD’s identity as the destination school district for anti-bullying programs and school safety in Orange County. At WSD, we believe that safety, respect, and inclusion are the foundation of learning. With every student supported, every voice valued, and every school recognized, our community continues to shine.

Westminster School District (WSD) is proud to welcome Officer Karlo Muñoz as the third School Resource Officer (SRO), a key step in strengthening the district commitment to student safety and community trust.

For the Westminster School District, safety is more than policies and procedures — it’s about creating an environment where students can focus on learning, families feel confident, and staff are supported. 

More Than a Uniform

When students see a School Resource Officer walking the halls, they don’t just see law enforcement — they see a mentor, a role model, and someone who will listen. SROs like Muñoz are present not only in moments of crisis but also in the everyday experiences that shape a student’s sense of belonging. Whether it’s teaching bike safety, encouraging positive behavior, or sharing a laugh during recess, these moments add up to a sense of security that allows students to reach their full potential. 

Safety as a Promise, Not Just a Practice

“The safety and well-being of our students is our top priority,” said Superintendent Dr. Gunn Marie Hansen. “Welcoming Officer Muñoz to our team strengthens our ongoing efforts to create a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for every child.”

That promise is lived out every day through our School Resource Officers, whose presence brings visibility that deters potential threats, training that ensures quick response, and foresight that helps prevent issues before they escalate. They show students that safety isn’t just about being protected—it’s about being cared for.

With Officer Muñoz now on board, Westminster School District further strengthens its position as the safest elementary school district in Orange County. This recognition is the result of comprehensive, proactive safety measures designed to prevent incidents before they occur. WSD’s layered protections include a single point of entry during school hours, visitor background screening, campuswide camera systems, officer buzz-in locks, tall perimeter fencing, fast-locking classroom doors, and staff training focused on preventing bullying and predatory behavior.

A Bridge to the Community

Officer Muñoz, alongside other dedicated School Resource Officers will also be a bridge between school and community. By being present at events, leading programs such as DARE and Red Ribbon Week, and guiding students through conflict resolution, the SROs embody the message that school safety extends beyond the gates — it’s a partnership with parents, staff members, and neighbors. 

“Officer Muñoz is a strong addition to our safety team—a father, mentor, and trusted leader,” said Westminster School District Trustee David Johnson. “Our partnership with the Westminster Police Department sets the gold standard for campus safety. With more SROs per student than any other elementary district in Orange County, WSD remains committed to protecting every child, every day.”

Looking Ahead

With the addition of Officer Muñoz, WSD reaffirms its position as the safest elementary school district in Orange County. Beyond the recognition, what matters most is that every student who walks into each school can focus on learning, growing, and dreaming because of the safe environment. 

Westminster School District’s 5th Annual Backpack Distribution Event set a new standard for community impact, supporting nearly 1,000 students and their families with essential school supplies and so much more. 

For the first time, WSD introduced a hybrid model to expand access beyond McKinney-Vento families while ensuring those with the most urgent needs received priority invitations. The day started with more than 1,100 backpacks ready for distribution, thanks to the combined contributions from WSD and the Westminster Police Department, Costco, and 4H4. By the time registration closed, the event had welcomed 643 parents and guardians and served 987 students — a record-setting reach for the district.

This event was more than just a distribution; it became a true celebration of community. Families explored interactive booths from Grocery Outlet, Healthy Smiles, Westminster Police Department, OC Social Services, and many others. The City of Westminster’s Mobile Parks and Recreation Van transformed the space into a lively outdoor play area, while Kona Ice and the WSD First Aid team blended fun with safety education. Warm greetings from Superintendent Dr. Hansen and Trustee Gurney, along with a photo slideshow showcasing WSD’s specialty programs, added a personal and inspiring touch to the day.

“This year’s event was more than just about school supplies, it was about meeting the needs of the whole child and wrapping our arms around our families with support, trust, and care alongside our community partners,” reflected by Dr. Elsie Briseño Simonovski, Director of Whole Child and Family Engagement. “Together with our incredible partners, families, and staff, we created a space that celebrated every child and every connection.”

Events like this send a powerful message: WSD is more than a district — it is a hub of community care and opportunity. By connecting with families before the first bell rings, WSD builds trust, strengthens relationships, and elevates parents to see the district as the best place for their child’s educational journey.  

“This year, we witnessed what’s possible when schools, partners, local law enforcement, and service organizations come together with a shared mission: to uplift our youth and empower families,” said Superintendent Gunn Marie Hansen. “The event’s success proves that collective impact works, and that our students are strongest when their academic and social-emotional needs are met in a unified way.”

Looking ahead, WSD is committed to building on this momentum. With the dedication of staff, principals, district leadership, and community partners, the district will continue expanding resources, creating engaging experiences, and ensuring every student is prepared to succeed from day one. 

Families who want to be part of a district that nurtures the whole child academically, socially, and emotionally are encouraged to learn more about WSD schools and the programs that make them a place where students thrive from day one. Enroll today via the link here. 

On April 30, 2025, the City of Westminster gathered at Sid Goldstein Freedom Park to solemnly commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Fall of Saigon—an event that marked the end of the Vietnam War and changed the lives of millions. Known as Black April, or Tháng Tư Đen, this annual remembrance reflects on the profound sacrifices made during the war, honors those who lost their lives, and pays tribute to the enduring strength of the Vietnamese-American community.​

A moving highlight of the ceremony came from the approximately 30 students from Warner Middle School who are part of the award-winning Vietnamese Dual Language Immersion (VDLI) program—the first and best of its kind in California. These students took the stage to present a touching tribute, singing a song about traditional Vietnam in both Vietnamese and English. Their performance, televised on multiple news broadcasts, was a powerful testament to cultural preservation and pride. 

At the beginning of their presentation, one student led the group in bowing first to the left and then to the right side of the audience, a traditional gesture of respect and honor to elders and war veterans. The crowd erupted in applause during this powerful moment, which many described as the most emotional part of the day—especially for the elders and veterans, who were visibly moved by the respect and understanding demonstrated by the next generation, taught and nurtured by Westminster School District (WSD). 

A City Shaped by History and Hope

In 2019, Westminster made history by becoming the first city in the world to officially recognize Black April Memorial Week, reaffirming its deep connection to the Vietnamese diaspora and commitment to preserving historical truth. Each year, the South Vietnamese flag is flown at half-staff from April 23 through April 30 at the Vietnamese-American War Memorial, a solemn reminder of the lives lost and the hopes carried forward.​

This year's ceremony was especially poignant, marking five decades since the fall of South Vietnam. Community members, students, and elected officials came together for a powerful morning of reflection that included musical tributes and speeches honoring the resilience of those who fled war, rebuilt lives, and now contribute so deeply to the cultural fabric of Westminster.​

WSD Trustee Frances Nguyen delivered a moving speech reflecting on her personal journey of fleeing Vietnam in pursuit of freedom and justice. Drawing from her lived experiences, she highlighted the emotional and historical significance of Black April—commemorating the fall of Saigon in 1975—and its lasting impact on the Vietnamese American community. Her remarks served as a powerful reminder of the resilience of those who have sought refuge in the United States and underscored the deep cultural ties that continue to shape the identity of the Westminster community.

As part of the commemoration, WSD Trustees collectively presented a ceremonial flower wreath to honor and remember the countless individuals who sacrificed their lives in the fight for freedom. The gesture was a solemn tribute to veterans, refugees, and all those affected by the Vietnam War, reflecting the district's respect for the diverse histories that enrich its schools and community.

WSD Honors Community Builders with Inaugural Partnership Award

In alignment with the Black April commemoration, the Westminster School District (WSD) introduced the WSD Inspires! Community Partnership Award—a new initiative celebrating local partners whose values align with WSD’s vision of educational excellence and cultural inclusion.​

WSD proudly presented this inaugural honor to Ms. Kim Dinh Nguyen and Dr. Kim Anh Nguyen Dang, two esteemed community leaders who have preserved and promoted Vietnamese culture, heritage, and education among Westminster students and families.​

Education Rooted in Community

WSD’s participation in this meaningful civic event underscores the district’s dedication not only to academic success but also to community partnerships that reflect the richness and diversity of the city it serves. Events like the Black April commemoration offer a chance for students and families to engage deeply with history while building empathy and cross-generational understanding.​

“Westminster School District is honored to participate in the annual Black April commemoration to ensure the future generations of our community understand the sacrifices made by so many to secure their freedom after the Fall of Saigon in 1975,” WSD Superintendent Dr. Gunn Marie Hansen said. “We are dedicated to supporting the flourishing Vietnamese community in our Westminster Schools and honoring the memories of their families and the significant contributions to our history."

Through initiatives like the WSD Inspires! Award, the district continues to elevate those who strengthen the bridge between schools and community—ensuring students are seen, supported, and inspired.​

In the Westminster School District, excellence in education goes beyond academics—it’s woven into the very land our schools are built on. Through initiatives like the Influential Walls mural project, funded by the Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP), students actively shape their campus identity—working alongside artists, learning the value of creative expression, and honoring the powerful legacy of families like the Munemitsus and Mendezes.

The district’s commitment to safe and inclusive environments and vibrant enrichment opportunities can be seen in every brushstroke of the student-designed mural and in programs that connect history with identity. As Superintendent Dr. Hansen has championed, Westminster doesn’t just promise belonging—it practices it, every day on every campus.

On April 8th, Johnson Middle School proudly unveiled a powerful mural honoring the Munemitsu family and the land on which the school stands—bringing to life our commitment to student enrichment, cultural literacy, and belonging for all.

The mural now displayed on the Sylvia Mendez Gymnasium wall honors Seima and Seiko “Tad” Munemitsu, Japanese American farmers whose legacy helped shape a turning point in civil rights history. During WWII, the Munemitsus were forcibly incarcerated under Executive Order 9066, a U.S. government mandate that led to the internment of over 120,000 Japanese Americans. In a quiet act of solidarity and resilience, they leased their family farm in Westminster to the Mendez family—unwittingly planting the seeds for the groundbreaking Mendez v. Westminster case. This case desegregated California public schools and paved the way for Brown v. Board of Education, which ended school segregation nationwide.

This impactful project emerged from the Johnson Middle School Mural Academy, part of the district’s ELOP. Through this after-school enrichment initiative, students partnered with professional artists from Influential Walls to co-create the mural. The students were involved in every step of the creative process—shaping its design, painting it after school, and learning about careers in the arts and creative industries. This collaboration reflects WSD’s vision of enrichment at every campus and reinforces the district’s commitment to fostering creativity and excellence at California’s top middle schools.

The mural’s creation was more than just a painting project—it was an opportunity for students to reflect on the role of art in storytelling and history. Each brushstroke helped students gain a deeper understanding of resilience and social justice, lessons that go beyond textbooks. By working directly with professional artists, students explored careers in the creative industries, gaining hands-on experience that enriched their understanding of the arts as a viable career path.

Author and spiritual director Janice Munemitsu, who shared her family’s story in The Kindness of Color, joined the dedication and offered this reflection:

“ON THIS LAND – In 1942, my grandfather was arrested unjustly by the FBI here, the rest of the family had to leave everything except for a few suitcases behind. And it was here that the Mendez family lived when they found out that Sylvia, Gonzalo Jr., and Jerome had to go to a segregated Mexican school that had no educational curriculum! 

Great thanks to Westminster School District, Board, Principal Daniel Owens, Influential Walls and the STUDENTS for capturing this history for years to come! My dad and grandpa would be speechless, amazed, and grateful that this history is shared to new generations.”

The mural is more than a piece of art—it’s a powerful lesson in justice, resilience, and community.This student-led effort is a shining example of WSD’s dedication to excellence in education and the holistic development of every learner. The mural is not just an artistic addition to the site; it’s a symbol of the school’s commitment to creativity and community involvement. 

As Principal Daniel Owens emphasized:

“I wanted something deeper than just a mural or logo to define our campus. I wanted our students to leave their mark and be part of the creative process. That’s when Influential Walls caught my attention. They weren’t just offering to paint a mural—they were offering mentorship, a chance for our students to learn the creative process and express themselves through art. Thanks to their collaboration, our students had the opportunity to contribute, shaping the design with their ideas, and working alongside talented artists to create something truly meaningful for our school community.”

Visit our LinkedIn page to read more articles like this! To learn more about what makes WSD one of California’s top school districts—where enrichment begins early, after-school programs thrive, and every student’s story matters, visit https://www.wsdk8.us.