How local districts are inspiring creativity, confidence, and community across the Central Coast
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Discover how Monterey County schools are using innovative programs like STEM labs, arts integration, college partnerships, and career pathways to prepare students for the future.
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Monterey County Office of Education, MCOE programs, Monterey County public schools, STEM education Monterey, MPUSD programs, Fab Lab Monterey, MAOS Monterey High, Soledad Unified career pathways, Salinas Union High School District, arts integration Monterey County, college readiness programs, youth support Monterey County
Education Innovation Across 24 Districts
The Monterey County Office of Education (MCOE) oversees 24 school districts that stretch from North County to Bradley in the south. Public schools make up the majority of these districts, each committed to supporting students through forward-thinking programs that nurture creativity, problem-solving, and academic growth.
From STEM education and career navigation to arts integration and restorative justice, Monterey County’s schools are reimagining what education can look like. Below are just a few of the unique and inspiring programs helping students thrive in classrooms and communities across the county.
Creativity Meets Technology at the Fab Lab
Through MCOE’s Media Center for Art, Education, and Technology (MCAET), local students and teachers have access to hands-on experiences that blend creativity and innovation. The department’s Fab Lab provides cutting-edge tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, and robotics equipment—helping students bring their ideas to life.
According to Sean True, who oversees the Fab Lab, the goal is to make technology and engineering accessible to all students. The program travels to schools throughout the county, from Salinas Youth Center to Wellington Smith Juvenile Hall, ensuring that students in all environments have the chance to explore design, robotics, and STEM fundamentals.
The Fab Lab has also partnered with Echo Valley Elementary School in North Monterey County, leading weekly STEM sessions for TK–6 students. It collaborates with organizations like 4-H, Girl Scouts, and Boy Scouts, offering free STEM camps during school breaks.
By combining creativity and technology, the Fab Lab helps youth across the Central Coast develop skills that will serve them far beyond the classroom.
Launchpads for the Future: MPUSD’s Innovative Approach
The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District (MPUSD) exemplifies innovation at every grade level—from transitional kindergarten through dual-enrollment college programs.
“In MPUSD, schools are more than buildings where students pass through,” says Cresta McIntosh, Associate Superintendent of Educational Services. “They are launchpads for the future, beginning with young children discovering the joy of learning and culminating with graduates ready to take on college, careers, and the world.”
Programs such as Raising a Reader introduce students to high-quality, STEM-enriched books that promote family engagement and literacy from an early age. Investing in early education helps children build confidence and curiosity—skills that follow them throughout their school years.
At the high school level, MPUSD partners with Monterey Peninsula College to allow students to earn college credit before graduation. Some students even receive an associate degree at the same time as their high school diploma, giving them a strong head start on their academic and career journeys.
Career Pathways, Arts, and Aviation
Across Monterey County, districts are expanding opportunities for students to explore the arts, science, and real-world careers.
- Salinas Union High School District and Soledad Unified School District both offer career pathway programsthat prepare students for technical and professional fields.
- Washington Union School District and Santa Rita Union School District have integrated the arts into core subjects, encouraging creative thinking and expression.
- Monterey High School’s Monterey Academy of Oceanographic Science (MAOS) immerses students in marine and environmental studies.
- The Bob Hoover Academy, in partnership with MCOE, provides the SAFE Flight Program—a unique aviation initiative that combines STEM learning with flight training. This program earned the Apple of Excellence Award for its innovative approach to aeronautics education in alternative education settings.
These programs exemplify how Monterey County’s schools are giving students new ways to explore their interests and prepare for the future.
Supporting Families Beyond the Classroom
Education extends beyond academics—and MCOE recognizes that. The Connections Program was created to assist students and families experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.
Program coordinator Hermena Cervantes explains, “Our team partners closely with school districts countywide to receive referrals and ensure that families are connected to the right supports at the right time.”
The Connections Program links families with essential services such as food assistance, healthcare, and mental health support, ensuring that every student has the foundation they need to succeed.
Building Brighter Futures
The Monterey County Office of Education continues to champion programs that empower students, strengthen families, and build community resilience. From STEM innovation to social support, MCOE and its districts are investing in the next generation—one classroom, one program, and one student at a time.
Author’s Note:
Thank you to Sean True, Cresta McIntosh, Teri Pemintel, Donna Smith, and Hermena Cervantes for contributing to this article.
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