Dear Families of Glendale Unified School District, 

I write today about a serious matter. Just prior to winter break, Glendale Police Department (GPD) launched an investigation into Joseph Vladimir Sanchez, an agency-contracted special assistant who had worked intermittently at our schools. He was arrested and shortly thereafter, posted bond and was released from custody. After further investigation by GPD, Sanchez has been charged with lewd acts with a minor and was remanded back into GPD custody yesterday. The alleged events took place at Glenoaks Elementary School during the 2024-2025 school year and at Columbus Elementary School in December 2025 just before winter break. 

As soon as the district received the report of misconduct, we immediately notified GPD and Child Protective Services. We removed Sanchez from GUSD assignments and he has not returned to any of our schools since the allegations came to our attention. GUSD is cooperating fully with GPD’s criminal investigation. To preserve the integrity of the investigation, public communication regarding this matter was restricted at the request of the Glendale Police Department until now. 

The safety and security of our GUSD students is our highest priority. We have robust policies and procedures in place to maintain a safe and caring environment for all. We continually review and update our practices to enhance our safety protocols. For our employees, we require comprehensive employee background checks required prior to employment, which involve fingerprinting and clearance through the California Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 

In addition, the district utilizes the Department of Justice's subsequent arrest notification program, which provides ongoing alerts should criminal information become available after hire. The District also requires thorough screening and compliance standards from all agency partners. We take every report of misconduct seriously and work with our law enforcement partners to ensure swift and thorough action. 

The families of affected students have been notified by GPD and are being provided resources and support from the District and/or GPD. The Glendale Police Department is asking anyone across the district who has  information regarding these or other incidents to immediately contact GPD directly through the Assaults Bureau at 818-548-3106. 

This news is incredibly distressing for our community, and we recognize that you may have questions. We are not sharing additional details about this matter at this time to protect student privacy and the ongoing police investigation; however, should you need any support in processing this information, please reach out to our Student Wellness Services Department for counseling support by filling out the “counseling referral form.” If you need information on how to discuss body safety issues with your children, please visit our website. Counselors will be on-site at the schools directly impacted by the news.

We will continue to take every precaution to protect our students and employees and we appreciate your continued partnership as we work to maintain the safety, well-being and dignity of our entire school community. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. 

Sincerely, 

Dr. Darneika Watson
Superintendent, Glendale Unified School District