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Who We Are

At Arroyo, we embrace the unique and exciting transition of the fourth and fifth grade years—a time when students are growing in independence, confidence, and curiosity. We support each child’s development by fostering ownership of learning, encouraging goal setting and a growth mindset, and engaging students in meaningful, project-based experiences that build collaboration, communication, and critical thinking.
 
We also value strong partnerships with families, recognizing the important role parents play in each child’s educational journey.
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A woman and four girls smile for the camera, all wearing matching shirts and outdoor hats.
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Upcoming Events

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News & Announcements

Preschool Enrollment Flyer

Early Learning Center/Preschools are Now Enrolling for Next Year!

Looking for a nurturing, engaging preschool program for your 2- or 3-year-old? San Carlos School District’s Early Learning Preschool Program is enrolling for next year!

Our play-based early learning programs help young children build confidence, friendships, independence, and the foundational skills they need for a successful transition to school.

We offer preschool programs at all four SCSD elementary campuses — Arundel, Brittan Acres, Heather, and White Oaks — with several program options to fit the needs of our families. Attending preschool on an elementary campus is also a wonderful way for children and families to become part of their future school community and start building friendships early.

FREE Preschool May Be Available!
State-funded preschool spaces are currently available at Arundel Elementary School for eligible families. For example, a family of four earning up to $127,338 annually may qualify for FREE preschool — and our team can help you determine your eligibility.

Tours start THIS WEEK! Sign up HERE

Check out our new website and learn more today!
Measure K Information

Measure K Parcel Tax Information

The San Carlos School Board placed Measure K on the November 3rd ballot. The cost to local property owners could be $489 a year or $40.75 a month. State funding alone is unable to provide SCSD with sufficient funds to maintain the district’s high-quality education.

Measure K could support the people and programs that directly serve students, including:
• Teachers and staff
• Core academic programs
• Student support services
• High-quality educational programs and learning opportunities
• Maintaining strong instruction across our schools

Parcel Taxes = People + Programs

Learn more about how local funding supports San Carlos schools and the upcoming Measure K Parcel Tax.
Arroyo Eagle Eye - October 4, 2026 Featured Photo

Arroyo Eagle Eye - October 4, 2026

IN THIS ISSUE: Principal’s Message, Conference Week, 5th Grade Family Outdoor Ed Survey, Academics, Author Visit, other announcements, and weekly menu
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Principal's Message

Welcome to Arroyo Upper Elementary! Our Arroyo mascot is the Eagle and Together We Soar,  as we come together as a school community to support our students in connecting with their peers and growing socially and academically. 
 
The fourth and fifth grade years are such a special time of transition and growing independence. At Arroyo we strive to support each child’s developmental needs at this stage. This includes: 

- Helping students develop a sense of ownership for their learning and encouraging independence, goal setting, and a growth mindset
- Engaging students in project-based learning to deepen their collaboration, communication and critical thinking skills
- Supporting parents as partners in their child’s educational journey
 
These same student skills, mindsets and dispositions are also embedded in the Learner Profile in our newly updated SCSD Strategic Plan. The Learner Profile is our roadmap for bringing SCSD’s mission to life, and you’ll hear us talking more throughout the upcoming year about the ways in which we are leaning into this with our 4th and 5th graders.  The Learner Profile states:
 
“SCSD learners are curious problem solvers, self-aware learners, and kind citizens. They understand that learning is not only about acquiring knowledge but also about developing strong interpersonal skills, taking ownership of their learning, developing the ability to adapt and reflect, and being prepared to contribute to their community and the world at large.”  
 
Beyond our goals for students as learners, our broader aim is to make every student and family at Arroyo feel valued and connected. Without that sense of belonging, we cannot accomplish any of our larger academic goals for our students. Because of this, you’ll notice events for families throughout the year to help you build connections with our campus, our staff, and with other students and families.
 
We hope you’ll take the time to connect with our Arroyo community, because WE SOAR HIGHER WHEN WE SOAR TOGETHER!
 
Warmly,
Mindy Shelton
Principal
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Our Vision

Our vision is to nurture well-rounded, capable learners who are prepared to think critically, communicate effectively, and contribute positively to their community. Guided by the SCSD Learner Profile, we create opportunities for students to explore, innovate, and lead—strengthening their academic, social, and emotional skills along the way. Through flexible learning environments, collaborative experiences, and intentional leadership opportunities, we empower students to grow as confident learners and responsible citizens.
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