Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year!
Whether you are returning to Roosevelt or joining our community for the first time, I am so excited to welcome you to another year of learning, connection, and growth. It is truly an honor to serve as your principal, and I feel incredibly fortunate to partner with such a wonderful community of students, families, and educators.
At Roosevelt, we believe that everything begins with relationships. Before children can truly learn and grow, they need to know that they belong. Every child deserves to feel visible — seen and known for who they are; voiced — heard, respected, and empowered to share their ideas; and valued — accepted, celebrated, and recognized for the unique strengths they bring to our community.
Relationships First. Growth for Everyone. Confident in Their Potential.
These words reflect how we want to show up for our students each and every day. Every child who walks through our doors brings their own strengths, experiences, identities, interests, and dreams. It is our responsibility to know them, believe in them, challenge them, and provide the support they need to reach their fullest potential.
At Roosevelt, we also have G.R.I.T.—Growth, Respect, Integrity, and Tenacity. These values are an important part of who we are and guide how we learn, lead, and care for one another. They remind us that education is about more than what our students achieve academically; it is also about helping them become thoughtful, confident, compassionate people.
Our work is deeply connected to the values of Santa Monica–Malibu Unified School District and grounded in equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging, curiosity, and empowerment. We bring these values to life through a simple commitment to every Roosevelt student:
- Every child belongs. We want our students to feel seen, safe, valued, and celebrated for who they are.
- Every child grows. We encourage our students to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, take risks, and celebrate progress.
- Every child leads. We help our students find their voices, take responsibility, and understand their ability to positively influence the world around them.
- Every child serves. We teach our students that kindness, compassion, and caring for others are essential parts of being a member of a community.
Our incredible teachers and staff bring this commitment to life every day. Through strong instruction, culturally responsive practices, meaningful learning experiences, and a focus on the whole child, we will continue working to ensure that every student is both supported and challenged. I am deeply grateful for the dedication our staff brings to this work and excited about what we will accomplish together this year.
One of Roosevelt’s greatest strengths has always been our community. Our families, PTA, teachers, staff, and students each play an important role in making Roosevelt the special place it is. I encourage you to stay connected, attend school events, partner with your child’s teacher, and find ways to be involved throughout the year. When we work together and believe in one another, our children benefit.
Throughout the year, we will continue to communicate important information and reminders through ParentSquare. You can also find school and district information on our Roosevelt school website and SMMUSD website, and I encourage you to subscribe to the Teddy Times Newsletter, published by our wonderful Roosevelt PTA, for upcoming events, reminders, and community highlights.
Save the Dates
Tuesday, August 25 — Minimum Day for All Grades Back-to-School Night | Grades TK–2
- TK & Kindergarten
5:00–5:30 PM — Principals’ Welcome in the Auditorium
5:30–6:30 PM — Classroom Visits - 1st & 2nd Grade
6:00–6:30 PM — Principals’ Welcome in the Auditorium
6:30–7:30 PM — Classroom Visits
Tuesday, September 1 — Minimum Day for All Grades Back-to-School Night | Grades 3-5
- 3rd–5th Grade
5:30–6:00 PM — Principals’ Welcome in the Auditorium
6:00–7:00 PM — Classroom Visits
As we begin this new school year, I am filled with excitement for all that lies ahead — the friendships that will form, the discoveries our students will make, the challenges they will overcome, and the many moments, big and small, that will make this year special.
Most of all, I want every child at Roosevelt to know:
I belong here. I can grow here. I can lead here. I can make a difference here.
Thank you for trusting us with your children and for being such an important part of our Roosevelt community. I’m excited for another incredible year together.
With gratitude,
Dr. Amy Onyendu (Ohn-yehn-doo)
Principal
