Douglas Unified Welcomed Students Back with a Challenge to RISE to Excellence
As students in Douglas prepare for a new school year, the Douglas Unified School District welcomes families with the message "RISE to Excellence." One Team. One Goal. Every Student. Every Day. Superintendent Alma Samaniego emphasizes this as a shared commitment to guide students, teachers, staff, and families throughout the year.
During the Welcome Back Staff Convocation on August 4, the spirit of collaboration was evident as staff celebrated their mission to provide every student with opportunities and support. The acronym RISE represents four key values:
Responsibility: Every employee plays a role in student success and takes ownership of their work.
Integrity: Trust is based on honesty, respect, and making the right choices.
Success: Achieved through perseverance and teamwork, emphasizing that every student has potential.
Excellence: Defined as a commitment to continuous improvement and high expectations.
The World Cup theme symbolizes teamwork, with every member contributing to collective success. Education extends beyond the classroom, with families supporting students through challenges and achievements. Teachers create safe environments that encourage curiosity and learning from mistakes.
Samaniego highlights the pride in being part of the Douglas community, emphasizing that every student can succeed. As challenges arise, the district reminds everyone that students are not alone; a supportive team stands behind them.
As the school year begins, Douglas Unified invites all students, parents, educators, and community members to work together. With Responsibility, Integrity, Success, and Excellence at the forefront, the district is ready to RISE to Excellence, keeping Every Student, Every Day at its heart.

Let’s Work Together
The Douglas Unified School District is passionately devoted to empowering parents and students by utilizing a wide array of communication channels. Guided by the inspiring leadership of Superintendent Ana Samaniego, the district champions collaboration among parents, teachers, and students, ensuring that everyone is engaged and well-informed throughout the educational journey.
Beyond digital communications, the district hosts regular parent-teacher meetings, fostering meaningful face-to-face interactions. These gatherings offer a priceless opportunity for parents and educators to connect, celebrate student progress, and address questions or concerns within a supportive atmosphere.
By prioritizing transparent, open communication, the Douglas Unified School District demonstrates its unwavering commitment to ensuring students thrive and succeed in their educational pursuits. The district believes that by involving all stakeholders in the educational process, it cultivates a nurturing environment that inspires student achievement and well-being.
