Dear Parents and Guardians,

The SAMOHI English Department is pleased to share an update on our ongoing work and our plans to expand meaningful learning opportunities for our students.

Our department continues to strengthen instruction through ongoing professional development, aligned best practices, and a unified vision for supporting all students. We are proud of the tremendous progress we have made with our inclusive 9th and 10th grade English program and the positive outcomes we are seeing for students across all classrooms.

Our teachers also continue to develop and refine the use of digital portfolios, which will remain a key part of every student’s English experience. Portfolios allow students to reflect on their learning over time, showcase their strongest work, and build the digital literacy skills needed for college and career success.

New for the 2026–2027 School Year: 11th Grade English Elective Choice

Beginning in the 26-27 school year, we are excited to introduce new English elective options for 11th graders.

For many years, 11th grade General Education students have had only two choices:AP English Language and Composition or English 11. This limited structure has unintentionally narrowed the range of learning experiences available to students and has not allowed us to fully honor the diverse strengths and interests they bring.  Expanding elective options will offer our students more meaningful pathways to college and career readiness and a more inclusive and engaging English experience.

By offering multiple rigorous electives, we aim to:

• Provide students with meaningful and relevant choices
• Increase engagement and ownership in learning
• Maintain high expectations while honoring individual interests
• Ensure equitable access to advanced skills across pathways
• Prepare all students for success in 12th grade, AP courses, college, and beyond

In addition to our current elective options, we are thrilled to add two new English electives:

• Modern Media & Storytelling: Students will explore narrative craft, digital media, and contemporary forms of storytelling
• RU/LA: a nontraditional English class where Los Angeles becomes your classroom. Students will explore the city’s people, neighborhoods, and stories while using design thinking to tackle real issues that matter to them.

These additions reflect our commitment to offering engaging, relevant, and academically rich pathways for all students.

 We are grateful every day for our students and the families who support them. Thank you for partnering with us as we work to create learning environments that challenge, inspire, and empower.

Most Sincerely,
The Samohi English Department