This article was underwritten in part by the Mickey Flacks Journalism Fund for Social Justice, a proud, innovative supporter of local news. To make a contribution go to sbcan.org/journalism_fund .
[Update: Fri., Oct. 17, 2025, 9:00pm] Lompoc Unified School District has released a statement on 9-year-old Melodee Buzzard’s disappearance. In the October 17 press release, the district said that Melodee’s mother, Ashee Buzzard first enrolled Melodee in the school district in August 2025. The statement said Buzzard brought Melodee to Mission Valley Independent School to begin the registration process.
Lompoc Unified said that Mission Valley is an independent study program offered through the school district. Children learn lessons at home and parents coordinate with accredited staff. According to Mission Valley’s website, students and staff meet weekly.
