As the proud principal of Arroyo Vista Elementary, it is my pleasure to welcome our returning families, our new faces, and our entire South Pasadena community to the 2026 - 2027 school year.

Every year, we select a theme to guide our work, inspire our students, and focus our collective energy. This year, our journey is inspired by the jigsaw puzzle. A jigsaw puzzle is a beautiful metaphor for a thriving school. On its own, a single piece is unique and interesting, but it is only when it connects with others that the clear, overall picture comes into focus. This year at Arroyo Vista, we are celebrating the fact that every single person is an essential piece of our puzzle. From our staff to our dedicated parents and, most importantly, our incredible students, our picture is incomplete without you.

This theme is especially meaningful as we enter the new school year with staff members stepping into new, exciting positions and roles across our campus. Just like putting together a puzzle, growth often requires us to look at things from a new angle, shift our perspective, and practice patience. As a school community, we are embracing a mindset of adaptability by discovering how our unique strengths fit together to create the best possible environment for our students to learn and thrive.

The support of our South Pasadena community is the framework that holds our puzzle together. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to SPUSD leadership, SPEF, and the Arroyo Vista PTA. Their dedication and behind-the-scenes work provide the vital connections that enrich our students’ daily experiences.

This year, we invite every student, parent, and community member to bring their unique shape, color, and spirit to our campus. Together, we will fit the pieces together for an extraordinary year!

Emily Blaney

Principal

Arroyo Vista Elementary School