Greetings, MCS Community!
With excitement for our district’s bright future, I begin serving as your Superintendent. I am energized by the prospect of building upon what our schools already offer and improving the way in which our students and families experience Modesto City Schools. As a graduate of Modesto City Schools, I am grateful for the academic and extracurricular opportunities that paved the way for my college and career success. Now, it is time for me to pay it forward by ensuring that every student graduates with the skills, knowledge, and character traits essential to thrive and contribute to society.
During my time as a student, I had loved ones and educators who believed and invested in me. It was that same collective effort that proved to be transformational for the hundreds of students I have known over the past two decades as an educator. Undoubtedly, students need and deserve our high expectations, encouragement, and exposure to rigor with necessary support.
Our Board of Education and staff have begun this work and I am eager to lead this next phase. During the 2025-2026 academic year, we will remain laser-focused on increasing achievement and equitable access, building staff capacity through professional learning, creating safe and welcoming environments, engaging in responsible fiscal and operational practices, and meeting our staffing needs.
Together, we will work tirelessly until we can proudly say that we have come through for every student, every day. Our purpose is to empower our students, facilitate opportunities that will open doors for them, and ensure they are prepared for what may come once they walk through the door of their choice.
As a framing for my 100-Day plan, I note that my leadership centers on intentionality, transparency, community, and excellence. These four values inform my decisions and actions. I also share with you commitments that I consider non-negotiable as we move forward:
We demonstrate care for, belief in, and commitment to every young person every day. At MCS, every student matters; every moment counts.
We invest in people.
We commit to collective efficacy and continuous growth.
We develop and make progress towards aligned goals and strategic actions.
We partner with students, families, and the community.
I am overjoyed to be back in my hometown, leading the district where I attended elementary, junior high, and high school. I am deeply committed to our students; I don’t just see myself in them, I was once one of them. They are my “why”.
In partnership with you,
Dr. Vanessa BuitragoSuperintendent
Modesto City Schools
To view the plan in English, click here
To view the plan in Spanish, click here