Allie Ceralde: 'MPUSD is a big piece of the heart in this whole community'

Allie Ceralde
Office Support Clerk
Marina Vista Elementary Arts Academy

Not often do individuals get to work in the same community they live, but Marina Vista Elementary Arts Academy Office Support Clerk has the opportunity to do just that in Marina, California. Allie is in her second year supporting students, families, and the community in her role.

“I am really familiar with a lot of the kids and it’s great to be there for them,” she says.

Two of Allie’s children (kindergarten and 6th grade) attend Marina Vista and one is in preschool. She began as a supervisory assistant at the school and enjoyed the opportunity to be surrounded by children. As she was learning about all the roles at the school, she felt she would be a better fit in the office because she could proactively reach out and support families.

“I keep track of attendance, but I also support the families for any outside services they need. I am able to be a contact for them and get them resources they need to help their kids be successful here,” she says.

Allie appreciates the sense of community at Marina Vista, and loves to connect beyond the students to siblings who are not yet attending the school, their families, including parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

"Everyone comes together and it’s really nice - it’s like a family feeling,” she says.

Marina Vista Elementary Arts Academy has a positive school culture.

“There is always someone you can go to if you need help and advice. Everyone listens to each other. Someone’s always there to hold your hand regardless of what it is,” she says.

Moreover, her hope for students is that they know there is an open door at the school and that there is somebody who's there for them.

“Whether it's someone to listen to or advice, or sometimes it’s just a hug. I want them to know that I am here,” she says.

Prior to her journey to Marina Vista, Allie managed inventory for Fox Racing in Watsonville, California. Outside of work, Allie and her family are very active. Her oldest daughter plays travel softball, and when not attending games, they can be found outdoors walking trails, camping or even swimming.

Allie knows firsthand the types of programs, services, and resources the district offers.

“MPUSD overall helped me get my daughter to where she is now and there’s just so much that the district has to offer not just at one school site,” she says. “MPUSD is a big piece of the heart in this whole community and I’m just really honored to be part of it.”