Principal's Welcome

Principal’s Message

Vivian Banks Charter School
Home of the Eagles
Welcome Back Letter to Families – 2025–2026 School Year

Dear Vivian Banks Families,

Welcome to a brand-new school year at Vivian Banks Charter School—the proud home of the
Eagles! My name is Tina Calabrese, and I am truly honored and excited to begin this journey
with you as your new principal. Many of you may already know me from my previous roles
within the Bonsall Unified School District, where I have served proudly for the past 11
years—nine of those years as principal of Bonsall West and the last two as principal of Bonsall
Virtual Academy. I am thrilled to now serve as principal for both Bonsall Virtual Academy and
Vivian Banks Charter School.

In my many years in education—as an instructional aide, classroom teacher, and
administrator—I can honestly say I’ve never worked a day in my life because I absolutely love
what I do. I believe deeply in the power of education to change lives and in the importance of
creating strong, meaningful relationships with students, staff, and families. Vivian Banks is a
truly special place—rich in history, culture, and community—and I feel incredibly privileged to
help lead this next chapter in its legacy.

As we prepare for the 2025–2026 school year, we are embracing a theme of connection,
community, and courage for resiliency. This year, we will focus on creating a strong sense of
family and belonging for all of our students, rooted in the Circle of Courage—a powerful
framework for building self-worth through belonging, independence, mastery, and generosity.
Through this approach, we aim to create a safe and supportive environment where every student
feels seen, valued, and empowered.

We have an exciting calendar of events ahead, including the return of our Fall and Spring
Festivals, Movie Night, and Literacy and Math Nights, as well as a variety of student assemblies
and family engagement opportunities. We are especially proud to be celebrating Vivian Banks’
30th anniversary this year, and we plan to make it truly special. With the help of community
partners, we hope to bring in elders and relatives to read with students and lead culturally
relevant experiences such as beading, gourd painting, basket weaving, and bird singing/dancing.
If you or someone you know would like to get involved, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we
welcome your participation and wisdom!

Here are a few important updates as we begin the year:

First Day of School and Welcome Back Breakfast: Wednesday, August 13th at 8:15 AM:
Join us from 7:55-8:15 on the first day to kick off the year together! We will have light
breakfast items and a photo booth!
Data Confirmation: Please complete your Data Confirmation in AERIES online AERIES
portal to finalize your child’s enrollment. If you need assistance, contact Nancy Mata in
our school office.
Back to school night/BBQ will be August 21st from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Please bring yourselves and your appetite for hot dogs, chips, drinks and dessert as you meet your child’s teacher/partner for the school year.
Student Assemblies: Weekly in the quad to celebrate student attendance, character, and
achievement—we invite you to join us!
Attendance Matters: We saw great improvement last year thanks to your efforts. Let’s
continue to prioritize daily attendance for every student!

At Vivian Banks, we believe in the power of unity. It truly takes a village, and we are so grateful
for your continued support, partnership, and trust. Together, we will build a school year full of
growth, joy, and lasting memories! As a welcome gift to all the families, I would like to give a
homemade batch of brownies to each of you. Please reach out to Nancy Mata in the office to let
us know when you plan to come in for your brownies so we can ensure they are fresh. Please
reach out and contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

With gratitude and excitement,

Tina Calabrese
Principal
Vivian Banks Charter School