Strandwood Elementary was selected as one of only three MDUSD elementary schools to host teacher residents from St. Mary's College of California for 2025-26, as part of the district's new Teacher Residency Program. The school, led by Principal Leif Utler in his first year, is also working to expand its multilingual learner support through a newly active English Learner Advisory Committee that began meeting in August 2025.

Q1. What does the MDUSD Teacher Residency Program mean for Strandwood families?

Ans. In 2025-26, Strandwood was selected as one of only three MDUSD elementary schools to host teacher residents from St. Mary's College of California. These are credentialed teachers-in-training working three days a week under a mentor teacher. For families, it means smaller effective group sizes and additional classroom support — not a substitute teacher situation.

Q2. Does Strandwood offer before and after school programs?

Ans. Yes. Before and after care is available on campus, with rates varying between full-time and part-time enrollment. Summer programming is also available. The school's website at strandwood.mdusd.org has current details, or families can call (925) 685-3212.

Q3. How does the school involve parents in decision-making?

Ans. Strandwood has an active School Site Council that meets monthly and gives parents a direct voice in how the school's budget is used. The English Learner Advisory Committee also meets regularly for families of multilingual learners. Principal Leif Utler has been transparent about both meetings from the start of the 2025-26 year.

Q4. What is Strandwood's mascot and school identity?

Ans. The school's mascot is the Roadrunner. School spirit days feature blue and gold — the official school colors — and the campus has a reputation for a tight-knit community feel. The school's Twitter account (@strandwoodel) posts regular updates for families.

Q5. What middle and high school do Strandwood students attend?

Ans. Strandwood feeds into Pleasant Hill Middle School, then to College Park High School. This feeder pattern is consistent and keeps students together as they move through the MDUSD system — a factor many families in the attendance zone consider when choosing where to live.