• APC in Action

    May 1, 2022

    Thank you to the 2022 Nominating Committee for your hard work and dedication to filling our APC Executive Board positions. We are proud to announce our slate of nominees for the 2022-2023 school year. The formal vote by the general Parents Club membership will take place Friday, May 13 at Dons Dialogue and our APC General Meeting.

    2022-2023 Parents Club Executive Board Nominees
    President: Veronique Kuhner
    VP Communications: Michele Colaco
    VP Community Partners: Natasha Acuna
    VP Fundraising: Lori MacLeod
    VP Services: Raina Foster
    VP Special Projects: Kelly Daggs
    Co-Head Liaison & ACA Liaisons: Jen Dodge and Heidi Hambidge
    Secretary: Nicole Long
    Treasurer: Katharine Wallace
    Assistant Treasurer: Eng Young
    Auditor: Nina Ruebner
    Past President/Parliamentarian: Kristen Labrosse

  • APC Membership & Fundraising

    May 1, 2022

    Buy a Brick, Leave a Legacy! There’s no better way to honor a Don than with a customized 2022 Legacy Brick on our Dons Legacy Wall. Prominently displayed in the Main Quad, our Dons Legacy Wall provides families a lasting way to recognize their special student, teacher, coach, team, performance group, club, and more. Purchase your brick through the Acalanes Web Store for $250. Contact Legacy Brick Coordinator Leanne Zimmerman with any questions.

  • Acalanes Community Always (ACA)

    May 1, 2022

    Mark your calendar for the AHS Senior Car Rally! Friday, May 20 at 5pm, Downtown Lafayette - Come one, come all! This community-wide celebration is a great way to cheer on Acalanes seniors and their families. Spectators will line Mt. Diablo Blvd. from Oakwood to the Lafayette Library. Groups (AHS teams, clubs, etc) can reserve an area on the route to watch the Car Rally together by emailing Car Rally Co-Chair Linda Choi. It’s a great night to stay and dine in Lafayette!
     
    Volunteers needed for AHS Senior Car Rally! Join one of the best volunteering events of the year. Please consider signing up for a slot to help celebrate our graduates.

  • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)

    May 1, 2022

    Colorado State University tight end Trey McBride is expected to be selected in the NFL draft this week, making him the first NFL player with same-sex parents. His parents, Kate and Jen, said they focused on building character and instilling confidence in their five boys. “More important than [Trey] playing in the NFL or anything is he’s a good human. He’s a good kid. That’s most important,” Kate said.

    Why about gender with youth? Friday, May 6 at 6pm, join us for a movie and conversation to support and to learn how to be better allies to our LGBTQ+ youth. Sign upor get more info.

    Know any young writers? The Young Writers of Color Festival is upon us! The YWCF encourages artists to explore projects about joy, happiness and resilience responding to their current moment. Nata

    And speaking of the arts, Pacific Northwest Ballet is part of a rising generation of gendernonconforming ballet dancers. Apprentice dancer Ashton Edwards is breaking barriers, questioning traditional ballet’s rigid gender roles.

  • Parent Education

    May 1, 2022

    How many of you have been wondering about your teen’s well-being given the losses we have had in our communities recently? How many of you are anxious and fearful that the same could happen to your child? This is a natural thing to be feeling; you are not alone. 

    If you have questions about how to help your teen with grieving and loss, here is a resource from the Center for Loss and another from the Center for Loss and Bereavement. If you are looking for specific language or tips on how to talk with your teen about their loss, consider this resource from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network. Make sure you validate your teen’s feelings and not dismiss them- this can be difficult to do especially when you feel sad yourself, but it demonstrates empathy.

    Contrary to popular belief, talking about suicide with your teens and the reasons why people end their lives does not increase the likelihood that your teen will want to die by suicide. It can open the door for your teen to talk to you about their thoughts and obtain help. People with suicidal thoughts can suffer a range of emotions: sadness, despair, neglect, and anger. Some people who think of suicide may not display any signs. Some potential risk factors may include a break up, struggling with depression or stressful life events, perceived rejection and lack of affirming spaces (e.g. in the LGBTQ+ population), the presence of lethal means in the house, etc. Some possible warning signs for suicide:

    • Talking about death and/or suicide in a casual way
    • Saying they wish they hadn’t been born
    • Asking about death or how to commit violent acts
    • Talking about leaving or going away
    • Saying they won’t need things soon
    • Not wanting to be around people anymore
    • Seeming sad and remote instead of happy and social
    • Becoming more angry or edgy
    • Losing interest in hobbies or events
    • Having trouble focusing
    • Showing changes in normal routine, such as sleeping, eating, or grooming
    • Acting out in harmful ways, such as drinking, using drugs, or hurting themselves
    • Getting in trouble with the law

    If you would like more resources on how to talk with your teen about your concerns, an authentic and caring conversation is usually enough. Here is a document from Kidshealth. If you would like to talk with other parents and guardians or need more support, ParentsAnonymous has online parenting support groups as well as a Parent and Youth Helpline: 855-427-2736. An additional resource for teens is from the JED Foundation and their Mental Health Resource Center.  The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is: 1-800-273-8255 or text GO to 741741 to speak to a crisis counselor 24/7.
     
    Final thought: please do not forget to take care of yourselves. Just like on airplanes, make sure you put on your face mask first before you put the mask on your child.  Taking care of yourself IS taking care of your kids as your kids will need you as their homebase and touchpoint. Finally, if your teen is struggling with academics or feeling down or frustrated about school, don’t forget to connect with our Counselors, our Nurse, and our Wellness Center.

  • Student Activities

    May 1, 2022

    An Aca Leader is a role model that shows leadership and plays a big role throughout our school community. Each week, one student who stands out is chosen to be our week's Aca Leader. This week we are proud to have chosen Luke Brightbill, a junior on Varsity Tennis. Our Aca Leader has made such an impact on their team and represents what an Aca Leader is!
     
    Thank you for your enthusiasm & support for student activities. Katherine Walton, the Student Activities Director, is out on maternity leave. For any student activity questions, please contact Kat Bautista.

  • College & Career

    May 1, 2022

    Seniors

    Juniors

    • College Essay Workshops at Acalanes - Mark your calendars for Wednesday, June 15 and Wednesday, June 22 in the am. Details to follow, but students will brainstorm and create outlines for their college essays.
    • Additionally, the College Essay Guy offers insightful sessions on the college essay process. Students leave with tangible ideas and drafts too! Our school is registered and courses are FREE! I highly recommend checking some of these out! They are a fun and simple way to start/finish essays.
    • Community College Summer Classes Open: Enrollment for summer courses at California Community Colleges has begun. You can likely take them asynchronously at many schools. If you’d like to explore a subject you are passionate about, click here.  

    Sophomores/Freshmen

    Resources:

  • Counseling

    May 1, 2022

    Counselor assignments are by last name.
    A-Dr Anne Schonauer  
    Du-Kr Christine Todd  
    Ku-Rog Marissa Meadows 
    Roh-Z Susan Martin
     
    Summer School Applications Available
    If your student has D or F grades currently or from past semesters and they want to make them up, they can enroll in our SummerSchool program. F grades in required classes need to be made up, D grades can be made up to stay 4-year college-eligible. Please have your student see their counselor to sign up.
     
    Geometry for Advancement - Summer School
    If your 9th grader is doing well in Algebra 1 and wants to advance in math, we offer a summer Geometry class that enables students to enroll at the Algebra 2 level in 10th grade. Please contact your counselor for more information.
     
    Junior Meetings
    Counselors recently presented to juniors in their USH classes and provided information about post-high school planning and Naviance. Counselors are calling in juniors individually to review graduation requirements and discuss summer/fall plans regarding college application prep. Students interested in 4-year colleges are encouraged to also make an individual appointment with Debbie Levy, our College and Career Advisor.

  • School Nurse

    May 1, 2022

    Parenting Teens in Uncertain Times Still going through Wednesday, May 4! This is a 10-day free summit for parents, caregivers and anyone who wants to create a better future for our teens.

    COVID-19 Information:

    • New Masking Mandate  As of Saturday, Mar 12, the state masking mandate has transitioned from “required” to “strongly recommended”. While masks will no longer be required,  “masks remain one of the most effective and simplest safety mitigation layers to prevent transmission of COVID-19 infections” (CDPH). Masks will still be available to those who need or want one. Students who return after Day 5 of Covid infection must mask through Day 10.
    • Remain Alert to COVID symptoms, continue to report COVID+ cases to us (especially Attendance) and keep your students home when they are ill.
    • COVID Isolation, Quarantines and Test Kits The current guidelines for return to school after COVID illness require a negative COVID test (if returning before 10 days). Please see Principal Shawn’s COVID FAQ’s for more details. We continue to update policy based on the County Health Department guidance.

    Please be in touch with me to discuss any medical, health, or wellness concerns.

    Stay healthy and be well,
    Dvora Citron, RN, MS
    dcitron@auhsdschools.org
    925-280-2970 x7128
    Acalanes School Nurse Google Site
    IG:  acalanesschoolnurse

  • Performing Arts

    May 1, 2022

    Mark your May calendars because you don't want to miss any of these upcoming musical events!

    Join Music Director Lauren Gibson as she hosts two concerts:

    • Tuesday, May 10 at 7pm in the AHS Performing Arts Center. Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and Wind Ensemble are performing. Admission is free, $5 donation suggested for adults.
    • Thursday, May 12 at 7pm in the AHS Performing Arts Center. Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and Jazz Band are performing. Admission is free, $5 donation suggested for adults.

    Concert at the Res (Lafayette Reservoir) Saturday, May 14 from 11am to 12:30pm at Lafayette Reservoir, Outdoor Stage. Lafayette Rotarians are hosting an afternoon of wonderful music featuring local bands including Acalanes High School Wind Ensemble, Stanley Middle School, Bentley School and the Rossmoor Big Band.This annual concert helps to raise money to supply Lamorinda and Bay Area Schools with new instruments for their music programs. Live entertainment and food and drinks for purchase. Free admission.

    Jazz Cafe 2022 Friday, May 20 from 5:30 to 9pm in Stanley Middle School, Multi-Use Room. Always a popular community event, this year’s Jazz Cafe will feature talented Jazz Bands from Acalanes, Stanley Middle School, Campolindo and more. All will be coming together for an evening of music and to honor Mr. Bob Athayde after 35 years of inspirational service to the Lamorinda Community.
     
    The APAB Board is seeking New Board Members. Are you interested in volunteering for a role that can make a difference in Acalanes’ performing arts? Acalanes Performing ArtsBoosters (APAB) is looking to fill open roles for next year. This is a great opportunity to get involved and connected to our performing arts community!
    Open 2022-23 APAB roles:

    • President
    • Secretary
    • Treasurer
    • Publicity & Communications   

    In addition, Instrumental Music has the following board openings for the coming year (must have a student enrolled in Instrumental Music):

    • Secretary
    • Treasurer
    • Reception Committee

    Please contact Paulie Proffett or Mary Beth Towery for more information.

     

  • LPIE

    May 1, 2022

    Please join us for Project LPIE Awards Ceremony May 3, 3:30 pm. Project LPIE Winners will be announced and celebrated at the Acalanes Performing Arts Center. All are welcome in a public reception featuring the creative entries as we announce the winners of the 2022 Project LPIE Awards. This annual event showcases and acknowledges Acalanes High School students for their project-based learning. This year LPIE received 82 student project submissions in 13 categories that recognize students' skills both within and outside the curriculum. We look forward to seeing you there!

    Jennifer Palmer and Michele Colaco, Acalanes LPIE School Chairs
    www.lpie.org, Follow us on Instagram

  • Sports

    May 1, 2022

    This week’s can’t miss events:

    Boys golf
    Monday, May 2 DAL Championships at Diablo Creek GC.
     
    Softball
    Monday, May 2 Varsity at Campolindo HS at 4:30 pm.
    Tuesday, May 3 Las Lomas HS at 4:30 pm. Varsity is away and JV is home.
    Thursday, May 5 Varsity at Mt. Diablo HS at 4:30 pm.
     
    Baseball
    Tuesday, May 3 Benicia HS at 4pm. Varsity is home and JV is away.
    Thursday, May 5 Benicia HS at 4pm. Varsity is away and JV is home.
     
    Boys volleyball
    Tuesday, May 3 NCS First Round Playoffs.
    Thursday, May 5 NCS Quarterfinals.
     
    Boys lacrosse
    Tuesday, May 3 NCS First Round Playoffs.
    Thursday, May 5 NCS Quarterfinals.
     
    Girls lacrosse
    Tuesday, May 3 NCS First Round Playoffs.
    Thursday, May 5 NCS Quarterfinals.
     
    Boys tennis
    Friday, May 6 and Saturday, May 7 NCS Singles and Doubles Championships.
     
    Swimming
    Friday, May 6 NCS Trials at Concord Community Pool at 10:30 am.
    Saturday, May 7 NCS Finals at Concord Community Pool at 10:30 am.
     
    Track & field
    Saturday, May 7 NCS Trials at Campolindo HS.

  • APC in Action

    April 24, 2022

    Campus Clean-Up now Saturday, Apr 30 from 11am to 2pm
    This is a new date for the Acalanes Spring Campus Clean Up! Please join for this great opportunity to connect as a community and show that we are ACA Strong, all while beautifying our campus! Everyone is welcome - students, parents, teachers, staff, and community members. Click here to sign up. Email Denise Cain with questions or for more information.

    Thank you to the 2022 Nominating Committee for your hard work and dedication to filling our APC Executive Board positions. We are proud to announce our slate of nominees for the 2022-2023 school year. The formal vote by the general Parents Club membership will take place at the Friday, May 13 Dons Dialogue and APC General Meeting.

    2022-2023 Parents Club Executive Board Nominees
    President: Veronique Kuhner
    VP Communications: Michele Colaco
    VP Community Partners: Natasha Acuna
    VP Fundraising: Lori MacLeod
    VP Services: Raina Foster
    VP Special Projects: Kelly Daggs
    Co-Head Liaison & ACA Liaisons: Jen Dodge and Heidi Hambidge
    Secretary: Nicole Long
    Treasurer: Katharine Wallace
    Assistant Treasurer: Eng Young
    Auditor: Nina Ruebner
    Past President/Parliamentarian: Kristen Labrosse