As we move further into the school year, I am reminded that the culture of our schools is shaped by the words we use, the way we treat one another, and the choices we make each day. CVUSD is committed to ensuring that every student, family, and staff member feels safe, welcomed, respected, and valued. There is no place for hate or discriminatory language in our schools.
This commitment is reflected in our ongoing work to interrupt harm, create welcoming and inclusive spaces, and provide learning experiences that honor the identities and experiences of our students. It is also visible in everyday moments across CVUSD from family gatherings and student celebrations to community partnerships and acts of kindness.
Our theme, “CVUSD Culture Starts With Us—Every Interaction Matters,” is more than a message; it is a shared responsibility. Thank you to our students, staff, families, and community partners for helping us build schools where everyone feels a sense of belonging and can thrive.
Regards,
Dr. Nia Rashidchi
Superintendent
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CVE Celebrates the Autumn Moon Festival
Castro Valley Elementary hosted its third annual Autumn Moon Festival Potluck, bringing students, families, and staff together for an evening of food, culture, and community.
The celebration concluded with a special performance by the Castro Valley High School Lion Dance team, whose energy and talent provided a memorable ending to the evening. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this meaningful tradition such a wonderful celebration!
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Independent Elementary Shines at the Rainbow Fun Run
Independent Elementary students brought energy, color, and school spirit to the campus Rainbow Fun Run on September 18.
Students ran, walked, cheered one another on, and enjoyed an active day with classmates, staff, and families. The event offered a joyful opportunity to promote wellness, strengthen connections, and celebrate the vibrant Independent Elementary community.
Thank you to the staff, families, volunteers, and supporters who helped make the event such a colorful and memorable experience for students!
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CVHS Honors First Responders at Inaugural Staff Tailgate
CVHS staff came together at a recent home football game for the inaugural staff tailgate—an opportunity to connect, build community, and cheer on our students.
During halftime, the school remembered those who lost their lives in the September 11 attacks and honored the first responders who serve our community. Representatives from the local fire department, California Highway Patrol, Alameda County Sheriff’s Office, and Falck Emergency Services joined the recognition and completed a ceremonial lap around the track in their emergency vehicles.
Thank you to everyone who participated and helped launch this meaningful new tradition. Moving forward, CVHS plans to dedicate the second home football game each year to a staff tailgate and halftime recognition honoring members of our community.
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Canyon Supports Multilingual Learners and Builds Belonging
Canyon Middle School students and staff shared how academic support, student leadership, and community-building opportunities are helping students thrive.
The presentation highlighted Canyon’s use of Words of the Week and AVID Excel, a course focused on academic language, literacy, and college-preparatory skills for multilingual learners. AVID Excel students demonstrated positive outcomes, including approximately 25% fewer disciplinary referrals per student than comparable multilingual learners and no out-of-school suspensions during the year.
Students also shared how their English Language Development courses have strengthened their communication skills, confidence, and preparation for college and future careers.
Canyon’s commitment to belonging extends beyond the classroom through student clubs, WEB transition activities, and opportunities for students to connect and enjoy the school’s new athletic fields.
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Celebrating Excellence at Canyon Middle School
At its September 23 meeting, the Board of Education recognized two outstanding members of the Canyon Middle School community.
Student Board Member Sophia Bonilla presented Adithi Subramanian with a certificate honoring her as an outstanding student. Vice President Gary Howard presented Nitya Narayan with a certificate recognizing her exceptional service as a school volunteer.
Congratulations to Adithi and Nitya, and thank you for the positive contributions you make to Canyon Middle School and the CVUSD community!
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Board Approves ELOP Provider Contracts
At its September 23 meeting, the Board of Education approved master contracts with AlphaBEST Education and the YMCA of the East Bay to provide CVUSD’s Expanded Learning Opportunities Program beginning January 1, 2027.
AlphaBEST will operate ELOP at Chabot, Proctor, Stanton, and Vannoy elementary schools and Canyon and Creekside middle schools. The YMCA will serve Castro Valley, Independent, Jensen Ranch, Marshall, and Palomares elementary schools.
The District will share registration details and additional transition information with eligible families in October.
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Creating a Clearer Path to California State University
The Board approved CVUSD’s participation in the California State University Direct Admissions Program and an accompanying data-sharing agreement with the CSU Chancellor’s Office.
Through the program, CSU may proactively notify eligible students of admission opportunities based on their completion of required A–G courses and qualifying grade-point average. Students must still complete the Cal State Apply application process, but receiving an early admission opportunity can reduce uncertainty and help students see college as an attainable next step.
CVUSD counselors and staff will help review eligibility information, support students with applications and financial-aid forms, and provide families with clear information about the program. The agreement also includes parent notification, an opt-out process, and student-data privacy protections.
The initiative is intended to expand college access, particularly for first-generation students and those who have historically been underrepresented in higher education.
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Summer Learning Supports Students Across CVUSD
The Board received a report on CVUSD’s 2026 summer learning programs, which provided academic intervention, enrichment, special education services, career exploration, and credit recovery.
Elementary students strengthened their reading, writing, mathematics, and English-language skills through engaging lessons, small-group instruction, and personalized support. The Dual Language Immersion summer program provided additional learning opportunities for participating students.
Extended School Year services supported students whose Individualized Education Programs identified a need for continued instruction over the summer. Fourteen classes were offered across several school sites, serving students from preschool through the Adult Transition Program.
At the secondary level, 452 students participated in multilingual learner enrichment, Eden Area ROP career exploration, or high school credit recovery. Students described the programs as welcoming and helpful in strengthening academic skills, exploring possible careers, and preparing for the school year ahead.
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CVUSD volunteer clearance requirements vary depending on how you plan to help.
Volunteers assisting under direct staff supervision complete Level 1 clearance, while chaperones and others who may have frequent or unsupervised contact with students need Level 2 clearance. Volunteers who drive students for school activities must complete Level 3 clearance.
Some clearance steps may take time, so families are encouraged to begin the process early—before a field trip, classroom activity, or special event arises.
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For official and time-sensitive district and school communications, families should continue to monitor ParentSquare.
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Oct 9, 12, 13 - Fall Non-School Days
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Oct 14 - Board of Education Meeting (6:00 PM, District Office)
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Oct 28 - Board of Education Meeting (6:00 PM, District Office)
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