Mr. Steve Kuykendall (Mr. K) – Principal

Welcome to the 2025-2026 school year at Thomas Olaeta Elementary School! It is truly an honor to continue serving as your principal. This year, we are excited to embark on a new adventure under our theme, "Tigers R.O.A.R.ing into the Future." Alongside the district’s “Make This The Year” initiative, we are all about setting bold goals and making them happen together.

For over 50 years, Thomas Olaeta Elementary has been at the heart of the Atwater community, and it’s our mission to nurture the leaders of tomorrow—today. We believe that success comes from the strong partnership between school and home, and we’re counting on your involvement to help make this a truly exceptional year for our Tigers.

Here’s how you can help support your child’s learning journey:

• Attendance Matters: The key to success is being present. We encourage you to ensure your child attends school every day, on time, and ready to learn. Consistent attendance is vital for academic growth and ensures they stay engaged. Please remember to schedule appointments outside of school hours whenever possible.

• Parental Involvement: We love when our parents get involved! Join our Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), help out at school events, and actively participate in your child’s education. Your voice and support make a huge difference in shaping their school experience.

• READ, READ, READ!: The foundation of learning starts with reading. Whether you’re reading to your child or encouraging them to read independently, fostering a love for books is essential. Let’s make reading a nightly habit, it’s the gateway to success.

• Rigorous and Fun Learning: At T.O., we believe learning should be both challenging and fun. With a balanced curriculum that fosters curiosity, creativity, and academic excellence, we’re setting the stage for a year full of exciting educational adventures.

If you have any questions, concerns, or ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Open communication is the key to a successful partnership, and I’m always available to chat.

We are thrilled to have you as part of our T.O. family. Once a Tiger, always a Tiger! Let’s make this year unforgettable!