From the Activities Director

Student Activities

THIS WEEK is SENIOR WEEK & SPIRIT WEEK!

  • MONDAY: Tropical shirts; a carnival at lunch in the pumpkin patch
  • TUESDAY:  Camo; senior athletic recognition, senior car painting and a study session after school in the library
  • WEDNESDAY: Flip flops; innertube waterpolo at lunch
  • THURSDAY: Country vs. country club; therapy dogs at lunch
  • FRIDAY: Red, white & blue; end of year rally during academy. We are bringing the summer energy through a USA theme for our final rally. We will have multiple live performances, 4 v 4 basketball, a surprise senior showing & our end of year video. Cannot wait to spend time together in community!

Acalanes Senior Rally in the Park!
We’re thrilled to introduce a brand new tradition for the Acalanes Class of 2025- the inaugural Acalanes Senior Rally in the Park! On Thursday, May 22nd from 3-4:30pm in Lafayette Plaza, across the street from Sideboard in downtown Lafayette, all seniors and their families will gather to celebrate this amazing class in the heart of downtown. We invite our Acalanes community to drive by with cheers and horns, and/or stop by to high-five a senior and take a picture. There will be live music by Acalanes Junior Everett Shore and his band Andromeda, games, and a whole lot of Dons spirit as we gather to mark this exciting milestone. It’s a new way to celebrate, connect, and make lasting memories for our seniors before graduation day.
We need volunteers: Please sign up here to help with decorating/event set-up.
Parking: We strongly encourage carpooling to this event! Parking is available at city metered spots along Mt. Diablo Boulevard and La Fiesta Square and nearby residential streets. After 3:30pm, the blacktop at Lafayette Elementary School will also be open for additional parking. Access via School Street between Moraga Road and First Street.
Important note! Parking in the Safeway/Plaza Center lot is not recommended. This lot is privately owned and is known to tow vehicles quickly if someone parks and leaves the premises.
Summer webstore is now open! Place your orders now through August.
 
DATES NEXT YEAR:

  • Aug 11 at 12pm: Frosh orientation
  • Sep 28-Oct 4: Homecoming 2025
  • Apr 25, 2026: Junior & Senior prom

A year full of programming & memorable moments is not possible without the larger community support. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for everything you have done to make the 2024-2025 school year positive for our young people. From the little asks to the larger asks, thank you thank you thank you. -K. Walton
 
Looking to stay informed? Follow us on Instagram for the latest on student activities and class happenings.
 
Katherine Walton, Activities Director

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Student Activities

THIS WEEK:
Wednesday @ academy: Grad cap decorating
Wednesday @ lunch: Innertube water polo
Thursday @ lunch: Frosh ice cream social
Friday @ lunch: ACA Buddies
Friday @ 7pm: Spring Choral Concert
Saturday @ 10am-1pm: Acalanes Car Show in the APL
Sunday @ 4pm: Senior Time of Reflection
 
Amin shirts are for sale via the webstore. Proceeds will be donated to the GoFundMe for Amin’s family💙Once ordered, feel free to have your student stop by room 314 to pick up.
 
Week of May 19: Summer Send-Off Spirit Week
We will have a jam packed week full of lunchtime fun culminating in our end of year rally on May 23 during academy.
 
DATES NEXT YEAR:
Aug 11 at 12pm: Frosh Orientation
Sep 28-Oct 4: Homecoming 2025
April 25, 2026: Junior & Senior Prom
 
Summer webstore is now open! Place your orders now through August.
 
Looking to stay informed? Follow us on Instagram for the latest on student activities and class happenings.
 
Katherine Walton, Activities Director

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Student Activities

Schedule for the week:
TODAY @ 2pm: Matinee showing of Spongebob, the musical
TODAY @ 4pm: Spring Flag Football Tournament in the stadium
Wednesday @ lunch: Blue Heart Award Winner luncheon with Mr. Shawn
Wednesday @ 7pm: SPRING 10 event: Instrumental Concert
Thursday @ 5pm: 2029 Activities & Athletics Night
Friday @ lunch: ACA Buddies

Cards for the Noroozi Family. If you would like to make a card for the Noorozi family, there is stationary available in the front quad along with a basket to drop it off. We will make sure all cards are given to the family.

If your student runs a club this year, encourage them to re-register this club NOW so they don’t have to do it in spring. We are offering spring club re-up and applications are available now and due May 7th.
 
Lafayette Community Day & Drive to ThriveTHIS week we are running a donation drive for Drive to Thrive, which benefits local foster youth and youth impacted by trauma. Donate used clothing, accessories and housewares to the bin in front of the attendance office. Runs through Friday, May 2.
 

Students can now apply to be an ACA Buddy for the 2025-2026 school year. In this club, students meet in room 314 every other Friday to hang out and do crafts with our Special Education students. There are also fun events throughout the year, including a Valentine’s dance and unified sports. Members are expected to be at 80% of all events and be committed to the program. Applications are due tomorrow.

Women’s History Month Video: Take a few minutes to watch this highlight video, which features interview questions exchanged between many inspiring women from our student body. From athletics to visual and performing arts, they all have voices that deserve to be heard: Acalanes Dons


Looking to stay informed? Follow us on Instagram for the latest on student activities and class happenings.

Katherine Walton, Activities Director

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Student Activities

 

Schedule for the week:
Monday @ lunch: Earth Week documentary + talk in room 314
Tuesday @ lunch: Recycled paper flower making in room 314
Wednesday @ academy: Cultural Fair in the big gym + nature walk
Wednesday @ lunch: Blue Heart Awards + Earth Week: Story of a Cup
Friday: Special Olympics
 
Acalanes Earth Week Apr 21-25
On Monday, Apr 21 students can watch the documentary “The Science of Our Planet” in room 314 during lunch. After, there will be a group discussion about how to improve current habits. Pizza will be provided.

On Tuesday, Apr 22 there will be recycled paper flower making in room 314 during lunch. Students can make a bouquet of paper flowers while learning about the importance of recycled paper and why using it has a positive impact on our environment.

On Wednesday, Apr 23 there will be a nature walk at BRIONES. To participate, students need to pick up and drop off a permission slip in room 314 (Walton), then sign up for Paniagua’s academy, as she will be the one chaperoning!

On Wednesday, Apr 23 during lunch a speaker from RecycleSmart will be holding a discussion group about the documentary, “Story of the Cup”. There will be a quick Q&A afterwards and a group discussion.

On Thursday, Apr 24 during lunch there will be a Sustainability Information Booth in the frosh quad! Students who answer a question about sustainability get a prize!
 

Students can now apply to be an ACA Buddy for the 2025-2026 school year. In this club, students meet in room 314 every other Friday to hang out and do crafts with our Special Education students. There are also fun events throughout the year, including a Valentine’s dance and unified sports. Members are expected to be at 80% of all events and be committed to the program. Applications are open now through Monday, Apr 28.

 
Cultural Fair Wednesday Apr 23!
The Cultural Fair is a unique event and opportunity to celebrate diverse cultures. This is the time to share traditions and educate our community through interactive displays. Students will be able to experience amazing performances, enjoy food and activities. We want to highlight authentic cultural experiences while fostering appreciation and learning. The fair is on Wednesday, Apr 23 in the Chris Huber gym during academy and students must sign up for Walton’s academy.
 

Women’s History Month Video: Take a few minutes to watch this highlight video, which features interview questions exchanged between many inspiring women from our student body. From athletics to visual and performing arts, they all have voices that deserve to be heard: Acalanes Dons

 
Acalanes is holding a $15 tickets fundraiser with the SF Giants this season! Make sure to use code: AcaHigSch25. Our student night is on Friday, Apr 25 @7:15 pm. Grab some tickets with your friends and come watch the game with us! 
Looking to stay informed? Follow us on Instagram for the latest on student activities and class happenings.


 
Katherine Walton, Activities Director

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Student Activities

Schedule for the week:
Monday @ lunch: Kick-off spring flag football practice + Student Makers Market + Voter registration drive
Tuesday @ 7 PM: SPRING 10 event-Boys Volleyball vs. Campolindo
Friday @ lunch: Flag football safety + rules meeting + ACA Buddies
Friday at 3:30 PM: SPRING 10: Boys baseball vs. SRV
Saturday @ 5 PM: Junior & Senior Prom (see below for final information)
 

Prom is this Saturday!
We are so excited for Junior & Senior Prom on Saturday! Here are a few important reminders for your student:
  1. They must be at Acalanes no later than 5 PM on Saturday as we will begin loading buses. We should be back to Acalanes at 11 PM.
  2. Please ensure your student eats breakfast and lunch. Although there will be delicious appetizers at Prom, it is not an endless buffet of food. Please ensure they take care of themselves as they get ready and take pictures.
  3. There is so much to do at the Academy of Sciences-visit the aquarium, watch the penguins while playing casino games, go in the earthquake simulator and more. We are looking forward to a great & safe night with our students.
Special Olympics Training
If your student is signed up to volunteer at the special olympics, there is a mandatory training during academy on Wednesday, April 16 in room 314. Please make sure they show up.

Apply to be an ACA Buddy for the 2025-2026 School year. In the club we meet in room 314 every other Friday to hang out and do crafts with our Special Education students. We also hold fun events throughout the year like the Valentine dance and attending unified sports. Members are expected to be at 80% of all events and be committed to the program. Applications are open now through Monday, April 28.
 

Principal’s ACA Blue Heart Award
Each year, Principal Shawn will recognize a handful of  students in each grade who emulate the spirit of Acalanes Community Always (ACA) outside the classroom. Nominations will be solicited by adults, along with student peer-to-peer nominations. All nominations should be made through a google form. Award criteria includes one or more of the following:

  • Engagement Proactively shows up for peers in thoughtful, diverse and/or creative ways.
  • Inclusion Actively seeks ways to connect with peers on campus.
  • Spirit Leads formal or informal efforts on campus to foster a sense of spirit and belonging on campus.
  • Care Exhibits simple ways to show care for peers, teachers, staff, the ACA community and physical campus.

The nomination form is open until Apr 15.
 
Cultural Fair Wednesday Apr 23!
The cultural fair is a unique event and opportunity to celebrate diverse cultures. This is the time to share traditions and educate our community through interactive displays. Students will be able to experience amazing performances, enjoy food and activities. We want to highlight authentic cultural experiences while fostering appreciation and learning. The fair is on Wednesday, Apr 23 in the Chris Huber gym during academy.
 
If your student would like to represent a culture and share its traditions, they can sign up now! Booths are on a first come first serve basis and if your student would like to collaborate on a booth with a friend, that is also welcome!
 
Acalanes is holding a $15 tickets fundraiser with the SF Giants this season! Make sure to use code: AcaHigSch25 . Our student night is on Friday, April 25th @7:15 pm. Grab some tickets with your friends and come watch the game with us!
 
Looking to stay informed? Follow us on Instagram for the latest on student activities and class happenings.


 
Katherine Walton, Activities Director

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Student Activities

Schedule for the week:
Monday @ lunch: Bus sign-ups + candy kabobs in the frosh quad
Tuesday @ lunch: Bus sign-ups + tye dye in the front quad
Wednesday@ academy: Puppy yoga
Wednesday @ lunch: Bus sign-ups + staff/student ping pong + therapy dogs in between the gyms
Thursday @ lunch: Bus sign-ups + staff/student ping pong + cookie decorating in the front quad
Friday @ lunch: Bus sign-ups + staff/student ping pong + bouquet making in 314
Saturday: Garden Work Party
 
UPCOMING:

  • Junior & Senior Prom: Apr 19
    • Purchase your ticket on Go Fan. Friday is the LAST day to get a ticket (by 3pm) and a bus assignment.
    • Bus assignments continue this week everyday at lunch.
  • Special Olympics @ Acalanes: Apr 25

Principal’s ACA Blue Heart Award
Each year, Principal Shawn will recognize a handful of  students in each grade who emulate the spirit of Acalanes Community Always (ACA) outside the classroom. Nominations will be solicited by adults, along with student peer-to-peer nominations. All nominations should be made through a google form. Award criteria includes one or more of the following:

  • Engagement Proactively shows up for peers in thoughtful, diverse and/or creative ways.
  • Inclusion Actively seeks ways to connect with peers on campus.
  • Spirit Leads formal or informal efforts on campus to foster a sense of spirit and belonging on campus.
  • Care Exhibits simple ways to show care for peers, teachers, staff, the ACA community and physical campus.

The nomination form is open until Apr 15.
 
Cultural Fair Wednesday Apr 23!
The cultural fair is a unique event and opportunity to celebrate diverse cultures. This is the time to share traditions and educate our community through interactive displays. Students will be able to experience amazing performances, enjoy food and activities. We want to highlight authentic cultural experiences while fostering appreciation and learning. The fair is on Wednesday, Apr 23 in the Chris Huber gym during academy.
 
If your student would like to represent a culture and share its traditions, they can sign up now! Booths are on a first come first serve basis and if your student would like to collaborate on a booth with a friend, that is also welcome!

Looking to stay informed? Follow us on Instagram for the latest on student activities and class happenings.
 
Katherine Walton, Activities Director

Read more

Student Activities

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SCHEDULE FOR THE WEEK:

  • Tuesday @ lunch in 314: Movie watching “The Lorax”
  • Tuesday at 7pm in the APC: Talent Show
  • Wednesday @ lunch: Class Cup indoor soccer + disability awareness month kahoot in room 314
  • FRIDAY: Crazy Sock Day for Down Syndrome Awareness
  • Friday academy in 314: Service event- make cards for hospitalized children
  • Friday lunch in 314: Spring kick-off- seed planting + indoor soccer in the gym

UPCOMING:

  • Junior & Senior Prom: Apr 19
    • Purchase your ticket on Go Fan now before prices go up on Mar 28
    • Bus assignments start Mar 26 at lunch
  • Special Olympics @ Acalanes: Apr 25
    • Volunteer opportunities are now open in room 314! Please encourage your student to volunteer for this incredible day.

Come to the annual Talent Show this TUESDAY at 7pm in the PAC, hosted by seniors Jake Colaco and Brady Quinn! There will be ten awesome different acts, food, and fun!

New Crew Leader Applications are available now and open to current sophomores and juniors! Being a New Crew Leader is a super fun way to be involved in the campus community and support next year’s frosh! Students can click here to apply! Applications are due March 24th!
 
Black Excellence recap video: Take a few minutes to watch this highlight video featuring all the fun things that happened in February, such as the making of the BEM Doordecks, Dr. Ty, the Quad City Dance and more ! Check it out.
 
Encourage your student to sign up to create motivational cards that spread hope, joy, and magic to hospitalized children across America! They can join us on Mar 21 in room 314 during academy to make a difference. The cards will be sent to Cards for Hospitalized Kids, a non-profit organization that distributes them to children every month. Plus, you can earn a volunteer hour on Helper Helper if you attend!
 
The Enviro board is holding a prom dress drive this year through Mar 29. There are two locations with bins where people can drop off prom dresses and accessories: the Lafayette Community Center and in front of the Acalanes attendance office. The dresses will go to the San Francisco Princess Project which distributes the prom dresses to people who need them.
 
Hey Acalanes Parents! We’re super excited to be hosting our annual Special Olympics on Apr 25! We are looking for parent volunteers to help manage parking. The time slot is from 8-10am and you can sign up here to sign up. We can’t wait to see you all there, thank you for helping out! Go Dons!
 
SALE- Support the Garden Club and buy Acalanes grown succulents! Plants are purchased through the Acalanes webstore for $3.25. Once purchased you will receive an email with pick up instructions. Thanks for your support!

Looking to stay informed? Follow us on Instagram for the latest on student activities and class happenings.
 
Katherine Walton, Activities Director

Read more

Student Activities


SCHEDULE FOR THE WEEK:

  • Monday: Students should wear BLUE for autism awareness + Unified Basketball at lunch + wellness fair at lunch
    • New Crew leader applications are also available – see the Daily Don.
  • Wednesday academy: Job/Career/Volunteer Fair in the front quad.
  • Wednesday lunch: New Crew Leader informational meeting in room 415
  • Thursday at 3pm: Spring 10- boys tennis vs. Miramonte
  • Friday @ lunch: ACA Buddies
    • Spring flag football tournament entries due
  • Sunday @ 9 AM: Annual Color Run + Holi Celebration
    • Open to all in our community – get your ticket on Go FAN today!

UPCOMING:

  • Talent Show: Tuesday, Mar 18 at 7pm
    • Hosted by Jake Colaco and Brady Quinn, and featuring 10 acts, it is a not to miss event in the PAC.
  • Junior & Senior Prom: Apr 19
    • Get your ticket on Go Fan now before prices go up on Mar 28
    • Bus assignments start Mar 26 at lunch
  • Special Olympics @ Acalanes: Apr 25
    • Volunteer opportunities are now open in room 314! Please encourage your student to volunteer for this incredible day.

Students should plan to come to the Wellness Fair tomorrow during lunch in the front quad! Organizations and Acalanes clubs will provide mental health resources and activities.
 
Does your student have a small business? Would they be interested in selling used items? Do they want to make money? Then they should fill out this form for the Acalanes Makers Market in April (tentatively Apr 15) to show interest! This is a wonderful opportunity for clubs to fundraise and small businesses to expand their business.
 
The Enviro board is holding a prom dress drive this year through Mar 29. There are two locations with bins where people can drop off prom dresses and accessories: the Lafayette Community Center and in front of the Acalanes attendance office. The dresses will go to the San Francisco Princess Project which distributes the prom dresses to people who need them.
 
Support the Garden Club and buy Acalanes grown succulents! Plants are purchased through the Acalanes webstore for $5.25. Once purchased you will receive an email with pick up instructions. Thanks for your support!

  •  

 

Looking to stay informed? Follow us on Instagram for the latest on student activities and class happenings.
 
Katherine Walton, Activities Director

Read more

Student Activities


SCHEDULE FOR THE WEEK:

  • Monday @ lunch: Championship 3 v 3 staff/student basketball + Legally Blonde watch party to celebrate Women’s History month
  • Tuesday @ lunch: Intramural Flag Football informational meeting in rm 314
  • Wednesday @ lunch: Legally Blonde watch party to celebrate Women’s History month
  • Thursday @ lunch: Frosh Carnival
  • Friday academy: Enviro council on changing weather & water
  • Friday @ lunch: Legally Blonde watch party to celebrate Women’s History month

UPCOMING:

  • Color Run + Holi celebration: Mar 16 at 9am
    • Get your ticket on Go FAN today!
    • A wonderful community event
  • Talent Show: Mar 18 at 7pm
    • A not to miss event for our community!
  • Junior & Senior Prom: Apr 19
    • Get your ticket on Go Fan now before prices go up on Mar 28
    • Bus assignments start Mar 26 at lunch
  • Special Olympics @ Acalanes: Apr 25
    • Volunteer opportunities are now open in room 314!
  • Intramural girls flag football sign-ups: tournament play is Apr 27
    • Informational meeting this Tuesday at lunch in room 314

On Mar 7 during Academy, students are invited to room 314 to listen to a presentation on the changing weather and water on our planet. Students will be educated on how the environment has changed and what that will cause in the future. The purpose of the event is to show students what is going on around us, as well as ways to help fix it.
 
Join us on Mar 16 for Acalanes’ annual Color Run, a vibrant Hindu holiday Holi celebration sponsored by local businesses! The event features student speeches about Holi, an exciting raffle, and a 1 or 2 mile run through our campus course where participants will be showered with colorful powder, and plenty of snacks. This fun-filled day is a chance to celebrate culture, community, and school spirit while supporting the classes of 2026 & 2027. Tell your family and friends, spread the word, and make this our biggest Color Run! Go Dons! Register today!
 
Does your student have a small business? Would they be interested in selling used items? Do they want to make money? Then they should fill out this form for the Acalanes Makers Market in April (tentatively Apr 15) to show interest! This is a wonderful opportunity for clubs to fundraise and small businesses to expand their business.
 
The Enviro board is holding a prom dress drive this year through Mar 29. There will be two locations with bins where people can drop off prom dresses and accessories: the Lafayette Community Center and in front of the Acalanes attendance office. The dresses will go to the San Francisco Princess Project which distributes the prom dresses to people who need them.
 
Support the Garden Club and buy Acalanes grown succulents! Plants are purchased through the Acalanes webstore for $5.25. Once purchased you will receive an email with pick up instructions. Thanks for your support!

Looking to stay informed? Follow us on Instagram for the latest on student activities and class happenings.
 
Katherine Walton, Activities Director

Read more

Student Activities

SCHEDULE FOR THE WEEK:

  • Monday @ lunch: 3 v 3 staff/student basketball
  • Tuesday: Blood Drive (8 am-2 pm). Sign up to donate!
  • Wed-Fri: ASB, Class Officer & Spirit Commissioner Elections
  • Wednesday @ lunch: BEM trivia + 3 v 3 basketball
  • Friday @ lunch: 3 v 3 basketball
  • Friday @ 7:30 PM: Quad City district dance hosted by AUHSD BSU’s

UPCOMING

  • Color Run + Holi celebration: Mar 16 at 9am
  • Talent Show: March 18th at 7 PM
  • Junior & Senior Prom: Apr 19
    • Invitations will be passed out in English classes this Tues. & Wed.
  • Special Olympics @ Acalanes: Apr 25
  • Intramural girls flag football sign-ups: tournament play is April 27

Student Government Elections this week
Encourage your student to vote for next year’s ASB, Class Officers & Spirit Commissioners. Voting begins Wednesday and the link to vote is in their school email. Results will be announced March 3rd.
 
Encourage your student to attend FRIDAY’S Quad City Dance at Las Lomas from 7:30 to 9:30! It’s the perfect chance to meet students from all across the district while enjoying delicious food and an unforgettable night of fun. Grab your tickets on GoFan for just $10 and get ready for an amazing time—great vibes, new friends, and a night you won’t want to miss!
 
The Enviro board is holding a prom dress drive this year through Mar 29. There will be two locations with bins where people can drop off prom dresses and accessories: the Lafayette Community Center and in front of the Acalanes attendance office. The dresses will go to the San Francisco Princess Project which distributes the prom dresses to people who need them.
 
Support the Garden Club and buy Acalanes grown succulents! Plants are purchased through the Acalanes webstore for $5.25. Once purchased you will receive an email with pick up instructions. Thanks for your support!
 
Join us on March 16th for Acalanes’ annual Color Run, a vibrant Hindu holiday Holi celebration sponsored by local businesses! The event features student speeches about Holi, an exciting raffle, and a 1 or 2 mile run through our campus course where participants will be showered with colorful powder, and plenty of snacks. This fun-filled day is a chance to celebrate culture, community, and school spirit while supporting the Classes of 2026 & 2027. Tell your family and friends, spread the word, and make this our biggest Color Run! Go Dons! Register today!
 
Introducing the 2nd Annual Contra Costa Shark Tank Youth Competition
Your student can win $2,000 to launch or grow their business! No idea is too small! This competition is a fun way to promote youth entrepreneurship among K-12 students in Contra Costa County. When young people succeed as entrepreneurs, they improve their own lives while also contributing to the economic development of their local communities. Visit www.contracostasharktank.org to learn more. Finalists will be selected by the Campolindo High School Entrepreneurship Club and winners selected by a panel of judges on May 1 at the Lafayette Library. Deadline to apply is Mar 15!

Looking to stay informed? Follow us on Instagram for the latest on student activities and class happenings.
 
Katherine Walton, Activities Director

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