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Introducing “Inside the District” –  Making school decisions make sense—for busy families.

In our first episode, we introduced Inside the District, a new podcast created to help busy families stay connected and informed about the decisions shaping our schools. We’re committed to breaking down complex topics into clear, meaningful conversations, without jargon or fluff.

This week we are sharing two episodes - one on our middle school modernization and one on school assignment and class placement practices.

Episode Two: In this episode, we focused on the Middle School Modernization Project, a major effort to reimagine and improve the learning environment for our middle school students. While originally envisioned as a rebuild of our almost 60-year old middle school, the project has turned out to be far more complex than anticipated, with multiple factors significantly impacting the project’s scope and timeline. In this episode, we unpack what’s happening, why it’s more complicated than expected, and what the district is doing to move forward responsibly.

Episode Three: We’ll explore a topic that affects every family in the district: how students are placed in schools and in classes.

From enrollment priorities and the role of a family’s home address, to how class groups are formed each year, we’ll walk through the policies, the process, and the people involved—so families can better understand how these important decisions are made.

Episode Four: Welcome to episode four of Inside the District, the Mill Valley School District podcast, where we open the doors to our schools and shine a light on the people and partnerships that make our community so special.

In today’s episode, we’re celebrating three of the cornerstone organizations that enrich the educational journey of every Mill Valley student: the Kiddo! Education Foundation, the Mill Valley Parent Teacher Association Council, and It Takes a Village Special Education Parent Teacher Advisory.

Together, these organizations form a powerful partnership with our schools—helping to create an environment where every child can grow, thrive, and be happy and proud to be part of the Mill Valley School District.

Episode Five: Here by popular request!  Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Kaufman joins MVMS coding teacher Sarah Petrini, STEAM TOSA Katie Fisher, and six middle schoolers to share how coding is rolling out—and why it matters. Listen for the kids’ voices—and practical ways to support curiosity at home.

Episode Six: On December 15^th, the district will present its staff recommendation for the Middle School modernization project to the Board of Trustees. This episode explains what the recommendation is, why it was chosen, and what families can expect in terms of timelines and on-campus impact. If you would like a clear overview before the Board meeting, this is the place to start!

Episode Seven: In the latest episode of "Inside the District", Board President Natalie Katz and Trustee Elli Abdoli discuss what Measure E is and what it represents for MVSD.  The conversation puts the scale of Measure E in plain terms: “Measure E… accounts for about 25% of the district’s budget.”  “25% of our budget is equivalent to closing two elementary sites.”  We encourage you to listen, review the official ballot materials, and make an informed decision.  

Open Enrollment

Whether you’re longtime learners or new to the district, we’re glad you’re here. Enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year is now open!