Dear Castro Valley Unified School District Students, Families, Staff, and Community,
Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year!
There is something special about the beginning of a new school year. It brings fresh starts, new opportunities, renewed hope, and excitement for all that we can accomplish together. Whether you are joining CVUSD for the first time or returning for another year, I am delighted to welcome you.
I continue to be inspired by this incredible community. Through visits to classrooms, celebrations of student achievement, conversations with families, and collaboration with our dedicated staff, I have witnessed firsthand the extraordinary care and commitment that make our schools so special. Thank you for your continued trust, partnership, and support.
This year, we will continue moving forward with a shared commitment to our vision that every student thrives academically, socially, and emotionally. We remain focused on providing engaging learning experiences, creating safe and welcoming schools, expanding opportunities, and preparing our graduates for college, career, and life.
As we begin this new year, I also want to issue a simple, but powerful challenge to our entire community…Choose kindness.
We know that the words we use matter. Whether in person or online, our words have power.
They can divide or unite…They can hurt or heal…They can diminish or inspire.
Our students are always watching, listening, learning, and repeating.
As educators, leaders, parents, caregivers, and community members, we have both an opportunity and a responsibility to model the respect, empathy, dignity, and belonging we hope to see throughout our schools.
Kindness has the power to transform a classroom, a school, and an entire community. It is reflected in the way we greet one another, include someone who feels alone, celebrate each other's successes, listen with empathy, and extend grace during difficult moments. Every smile, encouraging word, helping hand, and act of compassion matters more than we often realize. CVUSD culture starts with us and every interaction matters.
To our students: Dream big, work hard, ask questions, and never be afraid to try something new.
To our families: Thank you for entrusting us with your children. Your partnership is essential to their success, and we look forward to working alongside you throughout the year.
To our incredible staff: Thank you for the passion, expertise, and heart you bring to our schools each day. The difference you make in the lives of students extends far beyond the classroom, and our district is stronger because of your dedication.
I truly believe this will be an outstanding year for CVUSD. Together, we will build on our successes, embrace new opportunities, and ensure every student has the support needed to learn, grow, and thrive.
I can't wait to see all that we accomplish together. Have a wonderful school year!
With gratitude,
Dr. Nia Rashidchi
Superintendent
Castro Valley Unified
