Each year, the Peachjar Extra Credit Award gives us the opportunity to do one of our favorite things—shine a spotlight on schools that go above and beyond to engage their communities and create welcoming, thriving environments for students and families. This year, we’re thrilled to announce that El Camino Creek Elementary, part of Encinitas Union School District our 2025 Peachjar Extra Credit Award recipient! 🎉
El Camino Creek Elementary exemplifies what the Extra Credit Award is all about: meaningful family engagement, strong community connections, and a school culture where students feel supported and celebrated.
Among many strong submissions, El Camino Creek Elementary stood out for its intentional, inclusive approach to community engagement and the meaningful relationships it fosters with families.
One nomination beautifully captured the heart of their work:
“I would like to nominate El Camino Creek and Kim Heinze for going above and beyond in building community engagement and fostering meaningful relationships through their outstanding school events. Their commitment to creating inclusive, welcoming, and enriching experiences is evident in the after-school and evening events they consistently organize.”
The nomination went on to highlight how these thoughtfully planned events ensure every family feels connected:
“These events are designed to reach all students and families, ensuring that everyone feels connected to the school community. Whether it's a cultural celebration, a family night, or an educational activity, their efforts help create a strong sense of belonging and partnership between the school and its families.”
At the center of this work is strong leadership and a genuine commitment to community:
“Kim Heinze's leadership and dedication are instrumental in making these events successful, impactful, and memorable. She exemplifies what it means to build bridges between the school and the wider community.”
On a recent visit to campus, Keeley Barnes, Tabassum Bhaghani, and Kellie Brickel had the pleasure of presenting El Camino Creek Elementary with the Peachjar Extra Credit Award, along with a $1,000 check to support their school community. The visit was filled with smiles, pride, and well-deserved recognition for the incredible work happening on campus.
Now in its fourth year, the Peachjar Extra Credit Award honors an individual school that demonstrates exceptional effort in engaging families and cultivating a positive, inclusive school environment. Our goal is simple: to celebrate schools for doing what they do best—supporting students and strengthening their communities.
Each fall, we invite school districts to nominate schools that stand out for their community engagement and family communication. As always, we were inspired by the thoughtful nominations and stories shared this year.
Every year, we’re amazed by the incredible schools we partner with and the positive impact they have on students and families. While only one school receives the award, every nomination reflects the hard work and heart educators bring to their communities every day.
Curious about past Peachjar Extra Credit Award recipients? Be sure to check out last year’s winner and see how schools across the country are making a difference.
Congratulations again to El Camino Creek Elementary on being named the 2025 Peachjar Extra Credit Award winner. We’re honored to spotlight your school and can’t wait to read next year’s submissions!