As I reflect on the 2025–2026 school year, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude for all that our community has accomplished together.

At Los Encinos School, we believe that education is about far more than what happens inside a classroom. It is about cultivating curiosity, building confidence, developing character, and giving children the courage to ask questions, take risks, make connections, and discover who they are becoming. This past year, I had the privilege of watching our students do all of these things – and so much more.

Our theme, “Exploring Diverse Systems & Structures,” invited students to look at the world through new lenses and to understand how the many systems around us work, interact, and evolve. Across grade levels, our teachers and specialists created opportunities for students to investigate, collaborate, and think deeply. From hands-on science experiments to the arts and athletics, learning at Los Encinos continued to be active, joyful, and purposeful. In addition, let's not forget the field trips, Eagle Days, and countless classroom discoveries that round out our expansive program.

We also continued to invest in the spaces and experiences that make our school distinctive and productive. The growth of our STEM Exploration Lab, the redesign of our music room and art studio, and the continued development of creative and experiential learning spaces reflect our commitment to providing children with opportunities to learn by doing. Plus, each classroom received new cabinetry. These investments are possible because of the generosity and partnership of our families and supporters.

Perhaps most meaningful, however, are the moments that cannot be measured in numbers. They are the sixth grader who found the confidence to stand before an audience, the kindergartner who walked into school with growing independence, the third-grader who discovered a new passion, the friend who reached out to someone who needed support, and the times when children surprised themselves with what they could accomplish.

None of this happens alone. Our faculty and staff bring extraordinary dedication, creativity, and care to their work every day. Our Parent Association, Board of Trustees, volunteers, and families contribute so much of their time, along with their ideas, resources, and encouragement. Together, we create the environment in which children can thrive.

As I look ahead, it's with tremendous optimism. We know that the world our students will inherit will continue to change, and our responsibility is to prepare them not simply to navigate that world, but to influence it for the better. Our theme for the coming year, “Identity, Influence, and Impact,” reflects that aspiration beautifully. We want our students to understand who they are, recognize the influence they have on others, and appreciate the impact they can make in their communities and beyond.

Thank you for entrusting your children to us, for believing in the mission of Los Encinos, and for being such an important part of our community. The accomplishments celebrated in this annual report belong to all of us.

Most of all, thank you for allowing us to share in the extraordinary journey of your children. Their curiosity, creativity, and kindness are the greatest measure of our success – and the greatest source of our pride.