DEI

💙 Acalanes Parent Club – Campus Culture Committee (CCC) Update
May 2026
 
🌟 Campus Culture Committee Highlights
The Campus Culture Committee is wrapping up a meaningful and impactful 2025–2026 school year. While there are no additional meetings scheduled for the remainder of the year, we are proud to reflect on the connection, care, and community that have defined our work together.

On April 24, the APC Campus Culture Committee hosted its inaugural Wellness and Restoration Event—a special opportunity for members of our school community to pause, recharge, and connect. Participants experienced a calming sound bath, shared a meal, and enjoyed moments of laughter and reflection together.


We extend our gratitude to Patrick Turner (AHS Wellness Coordinator), Paul Chopra (AUHSD Board Member), and Neku Pogue (AHS Associate Principal) for joining us and supporting this space of restoration. A heartfelt thank you as well to Beverly Jane for leading the sound bath and hosting us at the beautiful Big Magic Village Barn.
At our final meeting of the 2025–2026 school year, we also began planning for the year ahead. Highlights for 2026–2027 include:

• Quarterly Meetings (August, November, February, May)
  • Department updates
  • Board reports
  • Volunteer sign-ups
• May Meeting: Special team-building activity
• Monthly Engagement Opportunities Between Meetings:
  • Volunteering at school events such as Back-to-School Night
  • Hosting lunches for student clubs
  • Donating supplies for events like Homecoming

🌟 May Days of Recognition & Celebration

• May is Asian/Pacific Heritage month
• May is Mental Health Awareness Month
• May is Jewish American Heritage Month
• May 5 – Cinco de Mayo

May offers meaningful opportunities to honor culture, identity, and well-being:

• Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month
   A time to reflect on and celebrate the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders across fields such as science, arts, business, and government.
• Jewish Heritage Month
   Celebrates the achievements and cultural contributions of Jewish Americans in areas including law, medicine, politics, philanthropy, and the arts.
• Mental Health Awareness Month
  Observed since 1949, this month focuses on reducing stigma, increasing awareness, and promoting support for mental health. The 2026 theme centers on community and well-being. Look out for Wellness Center events designed to support students during AP testing and finals. You can also participate by wearing green, sharing stories, and accessing resources from NAMI or SAMHSA.

📅 Join Us Monthly! (In-Person & Virtual Meetings)
 Meeting Schedule | 6:00–7:30pm

✨ April Reflections


Acalanes Cultural Fair
On Apr 24, Acalanes hosted another vibrant and successful Cultural Fair during academy. Students engaged in cultural performances and interactive experiences that deepened understanding and appreciation for the diverse backgrounds represented within the school community. The event was a powerful reminder of the importance of inclusion, representation, and shared learning.
 
💚 Wellness Center Reminder
If you are ever concerned about your student or one of their peers, please submit a Wellness Referral.

• Our team follows up within one week
• All services are confidential and voluntary

🌟 Campus Culture Committee Highlights
 
It has been a wonderful 2025–2026 school year with the Campus Culture Committee! There are no additional meetings scheduled for the remainder of this school year.
At our final meeting, we discussed plans for the 2026–2027 school year, including:

• Quarterly Meetings (August, November, February, May)
  • Department updates
  • Board reports
  • Volunteer sign-ups
• May Meeting: Special team-building activity
• Monthly Engagement Between Meetings: Opportunities to volunteer at school events, such as:
  • Back-to-School Night
  • Hosting lunches for student clubs
  • Donating supplies for events like Homecoming

📅 Upcoming Important Dates

• April – Autism Acceptance Month
• April – Arab American Heritage Month

🧩 Autism Acceptance Month (April)
Autism Acceptance Month focuses on fostering understanding, inclusion, and celebration of autistic individuals.
Did you know?

• Approximately 1 in 36 children are diagnosed with autism.

Ways to Participate:

• Wear blue or gold to show support
• Share resources and stories from autistic voices
• Promote awareness and inclusion in your community

🌍 Arab American Heritage Month (April)
This month honors the rich culture, history, and contributions of over 4 million Arab Americans. It celebrates achievements across fields such as science, arts, and public service while promoting inclusivity and cultural appreciation.
 
💚 Wellness Center Reminder
If you are ever concerned about your student or one of their peers, please submit a Wellness Referral.

• Our team follows up within one week
• All services are confidential and voluntary

💙 Acalanes Parent Club – Campus Culture Committee (CCC) Update
March 2026
 
🌟 Campus Culture Committee Highlights

It has been a wonderful 2025–2026 school year with the Campus Culture Committee! There are no additional meetings scheduled for the remainder of this school year.
At our final meeting, we discussed plans for the 2026–2027 school year, including:

• Quarterly Meetings (August, November, February, May)
  • Department updates
  • Board reports
  • Volunteer sign-ups
• May Meeting: Special team-building activity
• Monthly Engagement Between Meetings: Opportunities to volunteer at school events, such as:
  • Back-to-School Night
  • Hosting lunches for student clubs
  • Donating supplies for events like Homecoming

Acalanes High proudly hosted the annual Special Olympics on Apr 17, welcoming over 600 student-athletes from across the county for a joyful day of track & field competition. Thanks to the dedication of our teachers and students—along with valuable parent support—the event ran smoothly and was full of encouragement, sportsmanship, and memorable moments.
 
Highlights:

• More than 600 participants competed across multiple track and field events
• Smooth event coordination by staff and student volunteers
• Strong community spirit and inclusive support from parents and spectators

Thank you to everyone who volunteered, cheered, and made this one of the best weeks of the year for our athletes.
 
📅 Upcoming Important Dates

• April – Autism Acceptance Month
• April – Arab American Heritage Month
• April 22- Earth Day
• April 24 – Acalanes Cultural Fair

Earth Day — Apr 22
 
Earth Day raises awareness and shows support for environmental protection with events held around the world. It’s a great time to think about ways to create a more sustainable school community. Ways your student can participate:

• Join or organize a campus cleanup during lunch or after school
• Bring reusable water bottles, utensils, and lunch containers
• Walk, bike, or carpool to school
• Reduce energy use: turn off lights and devices when not in use
• Plant native flowers, trees, or start a small garden
• Create posters or presentations for class about conservation
• Start or join an environmental club or pledge to one new green habit

Acalanes Cultural Fair — Apr 24
During Academy on Apr 24, students are invited to the big gym to enjoy cultural performances and learn about the diverse cultures that make up our Acalanes community. Informational booths will feature culture, food, and more. Students interested in hosting a booth and sharing a part of their culture can sign up with Mrs. Walton in Room 314.
 
🧩 Autism Acceptance Month (April)
Autism Acceptance Month focuses on fostering understanding, inclusion, and celebration of autistic individuals.
Did you know?

• Approximately 1 in 36 children are diagnosed with autism.

Ways to Participate:

• Wear blue or gold to show support
• Share resources and stories from autistic voices
• Promote awareness and inclusion in your community

🌍 Arab American Heritage Month (April)
This month honors the rich culture, history, and contributions of over 4 million Arab Americans. It celebrates achievements across fields such as science, arts, and public service while promoting inclusivity and cultural appreciation.
 
💚 Wellness Center Reminder
If you are ever concerned about your student or one of their peers, please submit a Wellness Referral.

• Our team follows up within one week
• All services are confidential and voluntary

💙 Acalanes Parent Club – Campus Culture Committee (CCC) Update
March 2026
 
🌟 Campus Culture Committee Highlights
 
It has been a wonderful 2025–2026 school year with the Campus Culture Committee! There are no additional meetings scheduled for the remainder of this school year.
At our final meeting, we discussed plans for the 2026–2027 school year, including:

• Quarterly Meetings (August, November, February, May)
  • Department updates
  • Board reports
  • Volunteer sign-ups
• May Meeting: Special team-building activity
• Monthly Engagement Between Meetings: Opportunities to volunteer at school events, such as:
  • Back-to-School Night
  • Hosting lunches for student clubs
  • Donating supplies for events like Homecoming

🎲 “Lead the Way” Celebration
The “Lead the Way” Celebration at Acalanes High School was a joyful and successful multi-generational event that brought the community together for an afternoon of connection, inspiration, and fun. Attendees enjoyed lunch, engaging speakers, music, games, and activities while building relationships across generations. Rooted in the shared values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, the event created a welcoming space for meaningful conversation and community building. A highlight of the day was the recognition of Acalanes students whose leadership and contributions continue to make a positive impact, leaving attendees inspired to carry this important work forward.
 
📅 Upcoming Important Dates

• April – Autism Acceptance Month
• April – Arab American Heritage Month
• April 14 – Holocaust Remembrance Day

🧩 Autism Acceptance Month (April)
Autism Acceptance Month focuses on fostering understanding, inclusion, and celebration of autistic individuals.
Did you know?

• Approximately 1 in 36 children are diagnosed with autism.

Ways to Participate:

• Wear blue or gold to show support
• Share resources and stories from autistic voices
• Promote awareness and inclusion in your community

🌍 Arab American Heritage Month (April)
This month honors the rich culture, history, and contributions of over 4 million Arab Americans. It celebrates achievements across fields such as science, arts, and public service while promoting inclusivity and cultural appreciation.
 
💚 Wellness Center Reminder
If you are ever concerned about your student or one of their peers, please submit a Wellness Referral.

• Our team follows up within one week
• All services are confidential and voluntary

It has been a wonderful 2025–2026 school year with the Campus Culture Committee! There are no additional meetings scheduled for the remainder of this school year.

At our final meeting, we discussed plans for the 2026–2027 school year, including:

• Quarterly Meetings (August, November, February, May)
  • Department updates
  • Board reports
  • Volunteer sign-ups
• May Meeting: Special team-building activity
• Monthly Engagement Between Meetings: Opportunities to volunteer at school events, such as:
  • Back-to-School Night
  • Hosting lunches for student clubs
  • Donating supplies for events like Homecoming

🎲 Community Impact: Games for Good
On Mar 22, Acalanes students supported the Games for Good event, raising funds to combat food insecurity in Contra Costa County—because no one should go hungry.

• The event benefited Together We Stand
• Over 200 families currently on their waitlist will receive support thanks to these efforts
• We are proud of our students for their leadership and service!

📅 Upcoming Important Dates

• April – Autism Acceptance Month
• April – Arab American Heritage Month
• April 1–9 – Passover
• April 5 – Easter
• April 14 – Holocaust Remembrance Day

🧩 Autism Acceptance Month (April)
Autism Acceptance Month focuses on fostering understanding, inclusion, and celebration of autistic individuals.
Did you know?

• Approximately 1 in 36 children are diagnosed with autism.

Ways to Participate:

• Wear blue or gold to show support
• Share resources and stories from autistic voices
• Promote awareness and inclusion in your community

🌍 Arab American Heritage Month (April)
This month honors the rich culture, history, and contributions of over 4 million Arab Americans. It celebrates achievements across fields such as science, arts, and public service while promoting inclusivity and cultural appreciation.
 
✡️ Passover (Apr 1–9)
Passover commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. Traditions include:

• Seder meals
• Eating matzah and bitter herbs
• Retelling the story of Exodus

✝️ Easter (Apr 5)
Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is a central holiday in Christianity. It concludes the season of Lent, a time of reflection, fasting, and prayer.
 
💚 Wellness Center Reminder
If you are ever concerned about your student or one of their peers, please submit a Wellness Referral.

• Our team follows up within one week
• All services are confidential and voluntary

March is a month rich with celebration, reflection, and community connection. Please join us as we honor and recognize the many religious observances, cultural celebrations, and awareness months taking place.

Awareness & Heritage Months

• Women’s History Month
• Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
• Gender Equality Month

Religious & Cultural Observances

• Feb 17 – Mar 19: Ramadan
• Feb 23 – Apr 11: Great Lent
• March 4: Holi
• March 20: Nowruz (Persian New Year)
• March 31: Transgender Day of Visibility

We look forward to celebrating the diversity within our community. Throughout the month, we will spotlight inspiring women and uplift individuals with developmental disabilities. If there is a person, story, or organization you would like us to highlight, please let us know here.

 
Games for Good – Community Game Night & Fundraiser
Sunday, Mar 22 | 4:00–6:00pm
 Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church
Join us for an evening of global-inspired games, friendly competition, and connection to support Together We Stand.
Enjoy:

• Easy-to-learn games for all ages
• Snacks and beverages
• Small prizes
• A chance to make a meaningful local impact

Your suggested donation ($45 adults / $25 youth) and optional pantry-item contributions will directly support Together We Stand’s work providing food and essential services to immigrant and vulnerable families facing food insecurity in our community.

Teen Volunteer Sign-Up: https://forms.gle/jZan32gpZoPhDNEc9

 
Wellness Center Update

If you’re ever concerned about your student or their peers, please don’t hesitate to submit a Wellness Referral. Our team follows up with each referred student within one week, and all services are completely voluntary.

 
Join Us Monthly! (In-Person & Virtual Meetings)
Meeting Schedule | 6:00–7:30pm

• Mar 16 – Virtual
• Apr 20 – In-Person (Final Meeting)
• May – No Meeting

We welcome all families to join us as we continue building a supportive, inclusive, and connected Acalanes community.

 

📬 Stay Connected
If you’d like to get involved or learn more, please reach out:
📧 diversityandinclusion@acalanesparentsclub.com

March is a month rich with celebration, reflection, and community connection. Please join us as we honor and recognize the many religious observances, cultural celebrations, and awareness months taking place.
Awareness & Heritage Months

• Women’s History Month
• Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
• Gender Equality Month

Religious & Cultural Observances

• Feb 17 – Mar 19: Ramadan
• Feb 23 – Apr 11: Great Lent
• March 4: Holi
• March 20: Nowruz (Persian New Year)
• March 31: Transgender Day of Visibility

 Ash Wednesday

 Annual ACA Color Run / Holi Celebration – Go Dons!

 Games for Good – Community Game Night & Fundraiser
Sunday, Mar 22 | 4:00–6:00pm
 Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church
Join us for an evening of global-inspired games, friendly competition, and connection to support Together We Stand.
Enjoy:

• Easy-to-learn games for all ages
• Snacks and beverages
• Small prizes
• A chance to make a meaningful local impact

Your suggested donation ($45 adults / $25 youth) and optional pantry-item contributions will directly support Together We Stand’s work providing food and essential services to immigrant and vulnerable families facing food insecurity in our community.

 
Wellness Center Update

 
Join Us Monthly! (In-Person & Virtual Meetings)
Meeting Schedule | 6:00–7:30pm

• Mar 16 – Virtual
• Apr 20 – In-Person (Final Meeting)
• May – No Meeting

📬 Stay Connected
If you’d like to get involved or learn more, please reach out:
📧 diversityandinclusion@acalanesparentsclub.com