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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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Upcoming Events

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News & Announcements

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Summer Meals and Food Assistance

San Carlos School District wants to ensure that all students have access to nutritious meals and other food assistance during the summer months when school is not in session. We encourage families to consider the following resources available in San Mateo County.


Seamless Summer Option and Summer Food Service Program are two programs that provide meals without charge to all children ages 18 and under, regardless of income level, prior qualification, or district of residence. The following organizations are offering free breakfast and lunch this summer. Visit our School Lunch page for more information.
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Family Summer Social: Save the Date

Join us for an Arroyo-Central summer social at Burton Park on Thursday, July 30, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Come catch up with old friends and meet new families and future classmates before school begins. We'll provide an ice cream sundae bar. Feel free to bring something to share! RSVP in the Evite.
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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 Mariposa 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 TOGETHER WE SOAR!
 
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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