As summer comes to an end, students and educators in the Point Loma Cluster are gearing up for the start of a new school year on Monday, Aug. 12. The cluster, which consists of nine schools including Cabrillo, Dewey, Loma Portal, Ocean Beach, Silver Gate, and Sunset View elementary schools, along with Dana and Correia middle schools, and Point Loma High School, is part of the San Diego Unified School District, the second-largest school district in California.
With a student population of over 6,400 in grades K-12, the Point Loma Cluster prides itself on its diversity. More than 40% of students qualify for the federal free and reduced lunch program, showcasing the economic diversity within the cluster. Additionally, about 25% of students come from outside the cluster, while 14% are English learners, highlighting the multicultural environment of the schools.
Tara Mcnamara, SDUSD information services specialist, expressed the district’s excitement in welcoming students back for the new school year. The earlier start date this year is part of the final transition in the academic calendar as outlined by the Board resolution adopted in 2022. This change allows the first semester to end before the December winter break, giving students the opportunity to enjoy the break without the stress of end-of-semester projects and exams. It also provides more instructional days before standardized assessments such as CAASPP, AP, SAT, and ACT.
In terms of school policies, Mcnamara clarified that there is no district-wide policy on bikes or electric bikes. However, the district encourages walking and biking as a healthy and environmentally friendly way to commute to school. Students who ride bikes are reminded to wear helmets and follow all bicycle laws for safety. Regarding cell phones, there have been no changes in policy, and existing guidelines for families can be found in the 2024-25 Facts for Parents publication.
As the new school year approaches, safety improvements have been made at Loma Portal Elementary and Point Loma High School by the City’s Transportation Department. Crosswalks at key school intersections have been added or refreshed to enhance safety for students and pedestrians. These upgrades include continental crosswalks for better visibility, thermoplastic pavement painting, school crossing signs, and street infrastructure enhancements based on data-driven decisions.
Point Loma High School is also gearing up for its 100th-anniversary gala in fall 2025. The school is seeking volunteers to help with PA fundraising initiatives for the celebration. Those interested in supporting this milestone event can fill out a Google form to indicate their willingness to assist as committee leads, members, underwriters, sponsors, or in any other capacity.
As the Point Loma Cluster prepares to kick off the new school year, students, parents, and educators are looking forward to a successful and enriching academic journey ahead. With a focus on diversity, safety, and community involvement, the cluster is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students.
