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Principal's Message

August 1, 2025


Dear Gulf Families,


Welcome back to the start of another exciting school year at Gulf Avenue Elementary School!  I hope you all had a restful and enjoyable summer break.  As we step into this new academic year, I am filled with enthusiasm for the opportunities and experiences that lie ahead for our students.


At Gulf, we are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment where every student can thrive. Our dedicated teachers and staff are here to ensure that each child receives a high-quality education and is encouraged to reach their fullest potential. 


I wanted to share some exciting data with you to highlight the awesome work that our teachers and staff are doing at Gulf Avenue Elementary School:


  • In 2023, 27% of our students in grades 3 – 5 met or exceeded their grade level goal on the state tests (CAASPP/SBA) in Math and 25% met or exceeded their grade level goal in ELA.  This year (2025), both our Math and ELA proficiency levels reached 39%!!!  

  • In 2023, 49% percent of our students met or exceeded their state reading goals (DIBELS).  This year (2025), our K – 2 proficiency levels increased to 70%!!!  

  • In 2023, the number of students with more than 12 absences (chronically absent) reached 36%. This year (2025), we brought that number down to 21%!!! 

As we begin this new school year, I strongly encourage you to stay involved and engaged in your child's education. Your PARTICIPATION and SUPPORT are vital to our success.  Communication is key to a successful school experience, and I encourage you to communicate with your child’s teacher beginning the first week of school.  


HOW CAN YOU HELP US AT HOME?  

  1. READING IS IMPORTANT!  Please model the importance of reading for your child by reading to/with them at home, at least 15 minutes, 4 times a week.  SUCCESSFUL STUDENTS READ AT HOME! This helps to build their fluency, vocabulary, and reading stamina.  
  2. ATTENDANCE IS IMPORTANT!  Please model good attendance habits and have your child at school, on time, every day.  WE CANNOT TEACH AN EMPTY SEAT!  Instruction begins promptly at 8:00am, with foundational literacy skills.
  3. TESTING IS IMPORTANT! Please continue to encourage your student to do their best on every test they take at Gulf.  We use this testing data to identify the best way we can help your child ACCELERATE THEIR LEARNING.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Let's make this year a memorable and successful one for our entire Gulf Avenue community.


Arturo Salazar, Principal