July 27, 2026

Dear Ramona Elementary School Families and Staff,

Today we are sharing difficult news about the start of the 2026–2027 school year.

After receiving the results of a facilities investigation, the Oxnard School District has made the difficult decision to temporarily relocate the Ramona Elementary School community. This means that students and staff will begin the school year at other District schools while we develop a long-term plan to address the conditions identified at the Ramona campus.

We understand this news is unexpected. We sincerely apologize for the short notice and recognize the disruption this will cause for your family. Please know that this decision was not made lightly.

Why is this happening?

Over the past year, the District has been monitoring and investigating moisture concerns at Ramona Elementary. This work included air quality monitoring, moisture investigations, and targeted remediation.

During the summer, a more extensive forensic investigation was completed. That investigation identified building deficiencies that require further evaluation and repair. Based on the information we have at this time, addressing these concerns will require a comprehensive assessment, additional expertise, and the development of a detailed plan to guide next steps.

After carefully reviewing these findings with architects, engineers, facilities staff, and other experts, the District determined that the safest course of action is to temporarily relocate students and staff.

Where will students attend school?

To support continued learning while allowing the District to address identified facility needs and minimize disruption, Ramona students will temporarily attend the following schools:

• TK: Lemonwood School
• Kindergarten: Driffill School
• Grade 1: Lemonwood School
• Grades 2–3: Rose Avenue School
• Grades 4–5: Cesar Chavez School

The Ramona school office and administrative team, including Principal Jorge Mares, will also be temporarily located at Cesar Chavez School on the Juanita side of campus.

How will we support families?

We know families will have many questions, and we are committed to supporting you throughout this transition. To answer all questions and concerns about relocation, we will provide:

• Zoom Community meeting on Thursday, July 30 at 6:00 PM
• In-person community meeting on Friday, July 31 at 9 AM at Cesar Chavez Elementary Cafeteria
• The Ramona office will be temporarily located in the old office for Cesar Chavez Elementary, located on Juanita Street on the back side of 301 Marquita Street.
• The school phone number will remain the same (805) 385-1569, and calls are being routed to support staff
• Main Email address (RamonaElem@oxnardsd.org) for family support.
• A website with updates and frequently asked questions.
• Regular communication as additional information becomes available.

We will ensure transportation, after-school programs, special education services, our biliteracy program, and other student programs continue with as little disruption as possible. Information on transportation and programs will be available by August 7, 2026.

How will we support staff?

We are working with our staff and labor partners to ensure that our teams are supported. Staff will be provided an opportunity to pack their personal items, and teams will be brought in to assist in moving school and instructional materials to their new locations. We want to ensure all impacted staff are ready to start with students on the first day of school.

Our Commitment as We Look Ahead

Ramona Elementary is much more than a school building; it is a community. We know this transition will be challenging, and we share in the disappointment that many families and staff are feeling.

While we determine the next steps and timelines, we promise to keep you informed every step of the way. As we move through this process, we will provide regular updates. We will continue to communicate openly, listen to your questions, and work together to ensure every Ramona student and staff member has a safe, welcoming, and successful school year.

Thank you for your patience, understanding, and partnership as we navigate this unexpected transition together.

Sincerely,

Dr. Anabolena DeGenna
Superintendent
Oxnard School District