Directors Message

Hello Child Development Parents and Families,

I am very excited and honored to be serving as your new Director of Child Development Programs. I have proudly worked in the El Monte community for the last 30 years. I have served as a bilingual teacher K-5, as a principal at the elementary and middle school levels, and I have also served as a district-level Director.

I believe a child’s growth is developmental. Every child is unique in terms of life experiences, developmental readiness, and cultural heritage. I believe our Child Development program’s role is to build a strong foundation for our children and families that focuses on each child’s Intellectual, Physical, Emotional, and Social Development. Our vision is to prepare our children for success by providing the best early childhood education in California. We will strive to implement new ways of effectively educating your child and provide the flexibility you need for your family’s schedule.

We are aware of the challenges that we are facing across the country and in our community, and I want to assure you that we have been working throughout the summer to ensure everyone's health and safety. We will continue to work effortlessly on safety throughout the year and follow the latest COVID-19 safety protocols outlined by the State and the Los Angeles County Office of Public Health.

All classrooms have medical-grade “High-Efficiency Particulate Air” (HEPA) dual filters, a supply of PPE, and sanitation products. The current Los Angeles County Health Officer Order, requires all individuals to, regardless of vaccination status, wear a mask in all indoor public settings and businesses. This order, and the state’s requirement for masking at child-serving sites, applies to children 2 years (24 months) and older, employees, staff, volunteers, parents and all visitors. Some exceptions to the masking requirement still apply.

We look forward to a safe and productive school year and we encourage everyone to follow all COVID safety guidelines and receive vaccinations if they are eligible.

If you have any questions or concerns during the school year, please contact the Child Development Programs office at 626-452-9164. We look forward to a great year together.

Respectfully,

Juan Castillo, Director

Child Development Programs

El Monte City School District