Delano Union School District’s love for children delivers results

Its Promise 180 initiative ensures that every learner maximizes each school day of the year.

Delano Union School District (DUSD) is more than just a collection of 12 schools—it’s a community dedicated to nurturing and guiding over 6,200 students from TK (transitional kindergarten) through 8th grade. Nestled in California’s Central Valley, DUSD is renowned for its strong commitment to academic excellence and its holistic approach to student development.

“We are a progressive and innovative learning community where our students recognize and develop their talents and strive to give their personal best each day. We’re a highly responsive district. Whether it’s an academic, emotional or physical need, we are always ready to answer the call,” says DUSD Superintendent Rosalina Rivera.

This responsiveness is the bedrock of DUSD’s success, as shown by its “Promise 180: Every School Day Counts” initiative. Unlike other schools still struggling to recover from the impacts of the recent health crisis, the New York Times noted that the district surpassed its pre-pandemic math performance. With Promise 180, excellence is achieved by ensuring that every day counts, caring for each student and staff member individually, and fostering an enthusiastic and energetic family-focused environment where students can maximize their full potential every single school day.

The district further takes pride in its robust after-school programs and its thriving dual language academy, both designed to engage students in meaningful ways beyond the classroom. From knitting to piano, from art to dance, students can explore their interests under the guidance of passionate teachers.

DUSD’s innovative philosophy can be summed up by a powerful phrase used often within the district: “Love meets results.” According to Rivera, “It is not enough to say we love our students. Real love means ensuring our students achieve the results they deserve. This approach blends personal care with a data-driven focus, ensuring every child grows academically, emotionally and socially.”

For parents, the message is equally compelling. At DUSD, it’s clear that every learner is part of a family.

“We will never give up on your child. We partner with you to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed,” says Rivera. “Our district offers not just academic excellence but a nurturing, loving environment—a rare combination.”

Learn more about Delano Union School District (DUSD) at www.duesd.org.