In the Loop
In the Loop Staff Newsletter - September 4, 2026
Aaron Belman
Upcoming Events
Weekly Wrap Up
Watch this week’s Weekly Wrap Up here, to catch up on the highlights from the week ending September 4, 2026.
Supt’s Corner
In the Know with Dr. Robyn Castillo - Ep. 2 Read to Succeed
Watch or listen to In the Know with Dr. Robyn Castillo - Episode 2 Read to Succeed, as Dr. Castillo discusses the district’s ongoing Read to Succeed Early Learners Initiative:
- The Science of Reading: How foundational skills are taught in NUSD classrooms.
- Teacher Support: How professional development and coaching empower educators.
- Home-to-School Connection: Simple, effective strategies for families supporting readers of all ages.
- Watch & Listen: Stream the episode on YouTube or your favorite podcast streaming platform.
- Family Literacy Hub: Access free reading guides and activities through the Read to Succeed Early Learners Initiative webpage.
Staff Reminders
2027 Open Enrollment and Health Benefit Premium Rates
Staff, the following message was sent via email earlier this week. For your convenience, we are resharing the following information, you may also visit the Open Enrollment webpage for the latest updates.
Open Enrollment for the 2027 plan year will take place September 14 through October 9, 2026, using American Fidelity’s new online enrollment platform.
All employees must confirm their health benefit elections through the platform, and paper enrollment forms will no longer be accepted. Instructions for accessing the new platform will be sent by September 10th. New premium rates and plan elections will take effect January 1, 2027.
We encourage all employees to carefully review the 2027 rates, even if you have not considered changing plans in the past. With the District’s increased contribution toward health benefits, employee costs for all plans have changed significantly since the last Open Enrollment period.
American Fidelity representatives will be available at each school site, the Service Center, and the Education Center to assist employees. You will need to schedule an appointment if you require assistance; however, walk-ins will be accommodated based on representative availability. You can view the schedule and book an appointment here. Employees only need to meet with a representative if making changes to a Flexible Spending Account, cancer or accident insurance plan, or hospital indemnity coverage.
A Health Benefits Fair will be held at the Education Center (1901 Arena Blvd.) on September 14th from 4-7 p.m., where employees can ask questions directly of health plan providers. A virtual meeting will also be held on September 24th from 5-7 p.m.
Please note the following changes for NTA members only:
- Sutter Health will be available as a new medical plan option beginning January 1, 2027.
- UnitedHealthcare Alliance will no longer be available. Employees currently enrolled in this plan must select a new medical plan during Open Enrollment.
Attached are the 2027 Health Plan Rates for each employee group, including the District’s increased contributions and employee costs for 2027.
If you have questions, please contact the Payroll/Benefits Department at payrollbenefits@natomasunified.org.
Join Our Athletic Coaching Team!
We often have athletic coaching opportunities available throughout the school year for teams at the 4th - 12th grade levels. Opportunities may include a variety of sports and team levels, depending on the season and school site. While openings may vary, we encourage you to review potential coaching positions and apply through EdJoin. Join us in making a positive impact on our student-athletes—on and off the field!
Safety
Keeping Our Students Safe: Essential E-Vehicle Guidelines for NUSD Families
There has been growing concern surrounding the safety of e-vehicle use by minors. With safety always being a top priority for Natomas Unified, we wanted to provide our families with an easy-to-follow graphic that outlines what is and what is not allowable for minors based on California law. Let's work together to keep our students safe.
Read to Succeed
NUSD Reads: Pete the Cat Picked by NMS Scholar Isaiah
For Natomas Middle School scholar Isaiah, Pete the Cat is where it's at! Isaiah recommends the book to early learners because "it has informational and fictional text that can support readers in comprehension," shared the Leadership scholar.
Borrow the Book: Search our community partner's catalog at the Sacramento Public Library to check out a copy.
Family Literacy Hub: Visit the Read to Succeed Early Learners Initiative webpage for free reading resources, read-alongs, and activity guides.
School Spotlight
Brittany "Ms. Attendance" Baker is back on campus! In honor of Attendance Awareness Month, Ms. Attendance visited Natomas Middle School to ask Leadership students a fundamental question: "What motivates you?" Their answers are heartwarming, earnest, and inspiring.
You can watch the full video segment here.
September is Attendance Awareness Month, and Natomas Unified reminds all families of the vital importance of coming to school every day and on time as we “Build Our Future Together.”
Warm Smiles and Free Books: Coffee with CAFE at Bannon Creek School 2026
NUSD's CAFE (Communications and Family Engagement) team collaborated with Bannon Creek School’s Family Engagement team on Tuesday for a morning filled with music, free coffee, and free books! Thank you to all the families and staff who stopped by to connect.
Upcoming Coffee with CAFE Stops (during morning drop-off):
- Monday, Sept. 14: Two Rivers Elementary
- Wednesday, Sept. 16: Paso Verde School
- Thursday, Sept. 17: American Lakes School
To view the complete calendar of family engagement opportunities, visit natomasparentuniversity.com.
Sports
Tiger Spirit Shines at 2026 Inderkum High Football Home Opener
Friday night football is officially back at Inderkum High School. It was a fantastic evening filled with crisp fall weather, packed stands, outstanding performances from the band and cheer squad, and incredible energy from "The Jungle" student section. While the game did not end with the outcome we hoped for, the community support and atmosphere were remarkable. We are excited for the rest of the season. Go, Tigers!
Natomas High Girls Volleyball Secures First Win of the 2026 Season
Congratulations to the Natomas High School girls' volleyball team on defeating Hiram Johnson, marking their first victory of the season. Way to go, Nighthawks!
Parent University
Register for Natomas Parent University: Raising Digital Citizens on Sept. 8
While social media keeps scholars connected, balancing screen time and online safety is a priority for many families. Join Natomas Unified for an interactive Parent University session, Raising Digital Citizens, focused on fostering safe, positive online habits.
Session Details:
When: Tuesday, September 8, 2026 | 6-7 p.m.
Where: Virtual via Zoom
Advance registration is required. Sign up now at natomasparentuniversity.com.
NUSD Safety Advisory Council Invites Parent Input at Upcoming Focus Groups
The NUSD Safety Advisory Council invites parents and guardians to participate in a Parent Focus Group to provide valuable input on district safety supports and resources.
Session #1 Details:
- Date: Wednesday, September 16, 2026
- Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
- Location: Natomas High School Library
- Who Can Attend: All NUSD parents and guardians
Save the Dates for Future Sessions:
- Session #2: Tuesday, October 27, 2026
- Session #3: Monday, November 9, 2026
Please complete the NUSD Parent Focus Group Registration Form to register.
NUSD Offers Free 2026 "Parenting the Love and Logic Way" Program
Join Natomas Unified for Parenting the Love and Logic Way, a free multi-week program designed to give you practical tools to raise confident, motivated, and resilient children. Learn how to handle everyday parenting challenges, build your confidence, and feel more relaxed in your parenting journey.
Program Details:
- Dates: Sept. 21, Sept. 28, Oct. 5, Oct. 12, and Oct. 26
- Schedule: Free Dinner & Childcare at 5:30 p.m. | Class from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
- Location: Details provided upon registration
Space is limited, so advance registration is required. Reserve your spot today at natomasparentuniversity.com.
Prepare Your Student for College: Register for NUSD's September 2026 Mentoring Workshop
NUSD offers a variety of mentoring programs at the high school level to support students and prepare them for college and career success. Join us at the upcoming Natomas Parent University meeting to learn about:
- How mentoring programs drive college and career readiness
- Eligibility requirements and enrollment steps
- Academic tutoring and mentoring opportunities
- College field trips, application guidance, and financial aid support
- On-campus Student Center supports available at secondary schools
Event Details:
- Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2026
- Time: 6 – 7:30 p.m.
- Location: Virtual via Zoom
Register today at natomasparentuniversity.com.
Bulletin Board
Plan for College: Join NUSD at the Annual College Fair on Sept. 30
NUSD students and families are invited to explore higher education pathways at the 2026 Annual College Fair! Connect directly with college representatives, explore academic programs, and attend helpful preparation workshops.
Event Details:
- Date: Wednesday, September 30, 2026
- Time: 6 – 8 p.m.
- Location: Inderkum High School
Workshops Available:
- 5:30 p.m. – Which College Best Fits Your Student
- 6:00 p.m. – How to Pay for College
Register for workshops at natomasparentuniversity.com.
Earn Your Bus Certification Through NUSD
Natomas Unified is offering a Bus Certification Course this fall for individuals interested in driving for our district.
Course Details:
- Dates: September 19 – October 11, 2026
- Schedule: Every Saturday and Sunday
- Location: 1931 Arena Boulevard
For more information or to register, please contact Marlene Tucker at 916-928-5220 or email mtucker@natomasunified.org.
Now Hiring: Substitute Food Service Assistants
Join the NUSD Nutrition Services team and make a positive impact on our students every day!
Position Highlights:
- Flexible day shifts (work while your kids are in school!)
- Comprehensive training and support provided
- Serve and support our local school community
Multiple positions are currently available. Apply online today at edjoin.org/natomasunified.
Questions? Reach out to our team:
- Call: 916-995-6634
- Email: ericalee@natomasunified.org
Visit the NUSD Literacy Table at the Natomas Farmers Market on Sept. 12
Stop by the NUSD Literacy Corner at District 1’s Natomas Farmers Market, hosted by Councilmember Lisa Kaplan, to pick up free books and discover engaging reading activities the whole family can enjoy!
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: North Natomas Regional Park (2501 New Market Drive)
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