Weekly News & Announcements

Student Activities

Last week to go! We hope you & your family have a great Thanksgiving break.
 
TODAY is the last day to purchase spiritwear from our winter store.
Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Look no further than some new Acalanes spiritwear. Orders close Nov 16 and will be in hand Dec 16 for pick-up. Proceeds benefit the classes of ‘26, ‘27, ‘28 & 29!
 
As we enter the holiday season, we have a few opportunities for our community to give back:
 
ADOPT-A-FAMILY: Last chance to sign-up this week!
As the holiday season approaches, the Acalanes Community Outreach board is kicking off Adopt-A-Family. This is a tradition at Acalanes and together we were able to support 70 families last year. We partner with Pacific Clinics in Concord. There are two ways to participate:

1. If you would like to adopt an individual along with their wishlist of gifts to buy, please fill out the signup genius link.
2. If you wish to adopt a family, please fill out the google form and we will get back in touch with you once we have received the families request.

All wrapped gifts will be collected on Dec 12 in the morning at the front of the school. As this date approaches, we will be in touch with more details! If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to Anna Motes at (annakmotes@gmail.com) or Katherine Walton at (kwalton@auhsdschools.org)!

ACALANES FOOD DRIVE
We are running a food drive for our very own Acalanes community. We are putting together food bags for anyone who may be impacted by the delay of SNAP benefits.
Collection bins are in front of the attendance office. We are collecting specific items in order to offer grab-n-go meals.  Items we are collecting:

• Canned chicken
• Canned mixed vegetables & canned corn
• Dried rice
• Canned cream of chicken soup
• Canned white beans
• Chicken broth
• Chili seasoning
• Instant mashed potatoes
• Dried stuffing mix
• Shelf-stable milk
• Cereal

If other items are brought, we will make those available. Ultimately, anything not used will be donated to our local food banks.
 
Peek at the Week:
Tuesday @ lunch: Frosh piesgiving
Wednesday @ academy: Clay making in room 314 + a sports mental health panel in the library
Wednesday @ lunch: Senior Friendsgiving
Thursday @ 7:00pm: Fall Jazz Concert
Friday @ academy: Enviro hosts Flower planting & pot decorating in room 314
 
Shop joyfully while giving generously! We are back in the holiday season and this is a perfect time to raise funds for our beloved Acalanes! Minted is offering parents 20% off our purchases AND is giving 10% of the net sales back to our fabulous school! Please use promo code FUNDRAISEACALANES upon checkout to support the Dons!

College & Career

Seniors:
Come See Us to Finish Up Your Apps!
Come in to the College and Career Center ANY TIME (Academy, lunch, 7th period) next week to finish UC applications before Thanksgiving break! We are here to help you...no appointment needed!
 
Upcoming Acalanes Student Alumni Panel:
The College and Career Center is organizing a recent Acalanes Student Alumni Panel during Academy (10:10-11:05am) on Wednesday, Jan 7, 2026. Do you know of a recent alumnus who will be in town on this day and would be willing to share what they wish they had known before college, what they are happy they did, and other tips for juniors and seniors? If so, please let Debbie Levy, dlevy@auhsdschools.org, know. Thank you!
 
Country Spotlight of the Week: The Republic of Ireland:
The Republic of Ireland's universities are highly regarded for their strong academic standards and research opportunities. The Irish education system is focused on research and aligns closely with the needs of the modern job market, providing students with relevant and practical skills. Ireland is also a great location for students seeking international work experience. Many global companies, especially those in technology and pharmaceuticals, have their European headquarters in Ireland. This provides numerous opportunities for internships and employment. Ireland's welcoming policies for international students, including the ability to work part-time while studying and options for post-graduation jobs, make it an attractive destination for students aiming for international careers.  Students can apply to Irish universities via the Common Application. A great Ireland Country Guide can be found on Maia Learning under the Resources tab.
Additional webinar recordings that might be helpful: Essential Information for AdvisingStudents on the Emerald Isle and The Emerald Island Awaits: North America Student & Family Webinar
 

Counseling

Counselor assignments are by student last name:
A-F Anne Schonauer  
G-Ka Erika Vasquez on campus MWTh
Ke-Re Marissa Meadows 
Rh-Z Susan Martin

PROGRESS REPORTS AVAILABLE Nov 17 The next grading period ends on Nov 17. Progress reports will be available in Aeries on Nov 17. This is the last grading period before the final official semester grades!  Those will be available around January 12th.

Performing & Visual Arts

Join us for a celebration of jazz music at the Fall Jazz Concert on Thursday, Nov 20 at 6:30pm in the Performing Arts Center! The concert will feature the Stanley Jazz Messengers, the Acalanes Jazz Combos as well as the Acalanes Jazz Ensemble. Join us to support our talented musicians from both Stanley and Acalanes! We will be live-streaming the event at https://www.youtube.com/live/a8eolPrsZWE
 


For anyone interested in making a donation to support Acalanes music, please refer to the QR code below. Thank you!

LPIE

LPIE Gala "Punchlines with Purpose" Tickets on Sale at 6:00am on Thursday, Nov 6!
For the first time ever, the LPIE Gala will feature a nationally acclaimed headliner—comedian Tom Papa, one of the top comedic voices in the country. With more than 20 years on stage and six stand-up specials—including his latest Netflix special Tom Papa: Home Free—Tom brings humor, heart, and perspective on life, family, and everything in between. His sharp wit and warmth have made him a favorite on Netflix, SiriusXM, and stages across the nation.
 
Get Your Tickets Now!
 
Funds raised through this event directly benefit our students by supporting exceptional programs in science, art, music, technology, electives, AP classes, and classroom support—programs that simply wouldn’t exist without community funding.
 
Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind night! Tables and tickets are limited, and this year’s event will sell out quickly.

Sports

*The game schedule reflects dates and times as of last Friday. Games may change for several reasons, including weather. If you have questions or comments, please contact Acalanes Sports Boosters.

This week’s can’t miss events:

Girls water polo
Tuesday, Nov 18 CIF NorCal Quarterfinal.
Thursday, Nov 20 CIF NorCal Semifinal.
Saturday, Nov 22 CIF NorCal Championship.
 
Girls basketball
Thursday, Nov 20 at California HS.  JV at 5:30 pm and Varsity at 7:00pm.
Saturday, Nov 22 Host American HS and Salesian HS scrimmage.  JV at 8:30am and varsity at 11:00am.
 
Tackle football
Friday, Nov 21 or Saturday, Nov 22 NCS Semifinal.
 
Cross country
Saturday, Nov 22 NCS Championship at Hayward HS.
 
Boys basketball
Saturday, Nov 22 Host Branson HS scrimmage.  Varsity at 11:00am, JV at 12:30pm, and Freshmen at 1:00pm.
 
Wrestling
Saturday, Nov 22 Berkeley Novice Tournament.

You may view the full 2025-2026 Athletic Schedule by clicking HERE.

General Announcements

Parking Lots Safety Reminders

Students and families, it is essential to drive slowly and safely in the parking lot. We have had several small accidents, and individuals have reported almost being hit because of reckless driving. Please be mindful of pedestrians at all times and move slowly through the lot. Do not swerve around cars. Be patient. If you want to avoid traffic, please make a plan to leave earlier. Any students involved in serious accidents or reported for reckless driving will have their school parking permits revoked, or will not be given the opportunity to apply for one next year. DONS DRIVE SAFE!

APC in Action

Staff Appreciation Grateful Lunch
Our Acalanes teachers and staff were treated to a “Grateful Lunch” hosted by APC! We’re so appreciative of all the families who contributed to our Fall Staff Appreciation Lunch, and we’re especially grateful for our wonderful Staff Appreciation Co-Chairs, Stacey Hastings and Dominique Mickelson, for organizing such an amazing spread!


Get your holiday gifts!
Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Look no further than some new Acalanes Spiritwear! Orders close Nov 16 and will be in hand Dec 16 for pick-up. Proceeds benefit the classes of ‘26, ‘27, ‘28 & 29! Order here!
 
Peer Tutoring — Walk-Ins Welcome
If your student needs help from a peer tutor but the Academy session is full, students can still come to room 107. Peer tutoring accommodates “walk-ins” and we will find a way to get your student the help they need.

Acalanes Community Always (ACA)

Acalanes Food Drive
Please join us in making a positive impact on the lives of those facing food insecurity. Food donations will go to local families in our community. Collection bins are in front of the attendance office. We are collecting specific items in order to offer grab-n-go meals.
Items we are collecting:

• Canned chicken
• Canned mixed vegetables & canned corn
• Dried rice
• Canned cream of chicken soup
• Canned white beans
• Chicken broth
• Chili seasoning
• Instant mashed potatoes
• Dried stuffing mix
• Shelf-stable milk
• Cereal

If other items are brought, we will make those available. Ultimately, anything not used will be donated to our local food banks.

International Trip This Summer
Acalanes staff are taking students on a trip to the Basque Country this summer, starting in Madrid, exploring northern Spain, then Southern France, and ending in Paris. Students from any grade and any of the four high schools can attend! The only requirement is an interest in travel! This trip has a little bit of everything -- ancient/historical sites, awe-inspiring locations, amazing food, and a once-in-a-lifetime bonding experience with Lamorinda peers. Send your student on the trip of a lifetime where they become a global citizen who values travel and exploration. 
For anyone interested in going on the trip to Europe this summer, please follow this link to preview the trip and to register: The Basque Country. The deadline to sign up is November 30. 
If you have any questions please reach out to Erin Fieldor Tina Gullberg. This is not a school-sponsored trip.

Campus Culture Committee

Acalanes Parent Club – Campus Culture Committee (CCC) Update
As we continue the 2025–2026 school year, the Campus Culture Committee (CCC) is focused on building a stronger parent support system for all student groups on campus. We’re also working closely with staff on issues that impact our students.

 
Join Us - APC Campus Culture Committee (CCC) Meeting 
Monday, November 17 | 6:00pm
Acalanes Library
Please join the Acalanes Campus Culture Committee for the second session in our 3-part “Wellness for Parents” series. This session will focus on strategies to support our own wellness and the wellness of our students. As we move closer to the end of the semester—with finals, senior applications, and holiday stress—this is an important time to come together as a community to share ideas, resources, and encouragement.

Campus Culture Committee – November Highlights & Upcoming Events

• All Month: National Native American Heritage Month
• Nov 11: Veterans Day
• Nov 13–19: Transgender Awareness Week
• Nov 16: Dumplings for Good Fundraiser (4:00-6:00pm) – Lafayette United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 955 Moraga Road, Lafayette
• Nov 20: Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR)
• Nov 27: Thanksgiving
• Nov 28: Native American Heritage Day

Transgender Awareness Week & Day of Remembrance
Transgender Awareness Week, observed Nov 13-19, is a week dedicated to raising visibility and awareness for the transgender community through education and advocacy.
It leads into Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR) on Nov 20, founded in 1999 by Gwendolyn Ann Smith in memory of Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was tragically killed in 1998. The day honors transgender individuals lost to violence and stands as a reminder of the ongoing need for compassion, understanding, and action.

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

• Nov 17 – In-Person (Library, 6-8pm): Part 2 of the Wellness Workshop Series
• Dec – No Meeting
• Jan 12 – Virtual
• Feb 9 – In-Person
• Mar 16 – Virtual
• Apr 20 – In-Person (Final Meeting)
• May – No Meeting

Student Activities

Two more weeks to go until a well deserved break!
 
As we enter the holiday season, we have a few opportunities for our community to give back:
 
ACALANES FOOD DRIVE
We are running a food drive for our very own Acalanes community. We are putting together food bags for anyone who may be impacted by the delay of SNAP benefits.
Collection bins are in front of the attendance office. We are collecting specific items in order to offer grab-n-go meals.  Items we are collecting:

• Canned chicken
• Canned mixed vegetables & canned corn
• Dried rice
• Canned cream of chicken soup
• Canned white beans
• Chicken broth
• Chili seasoning
• Instant mashed potatoes
• Dried stuffing mix
• Shelf-stable milk
• Cereal

If other items are brought, we will make those available. Ultimately, anything not used will be donated to our local food banks.

ADOPT-A-FAMILY: Sign up today!
As the holiday season approaches, the Acalanes Community Outreach board is kicking off Adopt-A-Family. This is a tradition at Acalanes and together we were able to support 70 families last year. We partner with Pacific Clinics in Concord. There are two ways to participate:

1. If you would like to adopt an individual along with their wishlist of gifts to buy, please fill out the signup genius link.
2. If you wish to adopt a family, please fill out the google form and we will get back in touch with you once we have received the families request.

All wrapped gifts will be collected on Dec 12 in the morning at the front of the school. As this date approaches, we will be in touch with more details! If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to Anna Motes at (annakmotes@gmail.com) or Katherine Walton at (kwalton@auhsdschools.org)!
 
Peek at the Week:
Monday: 1,2,3,7 block day
Tuesday: Happy Veteran’s Day! Thank you to everyone who has served.
Wednesday: 🙂
Thursday: 9th grade movie during lunch in room 314
Friday:
Academy: Native American Heritage Month speaker: Marge Grow Eppard
Lunch: Aca Buddies!
 
Native American Heritage Month speaker: Marge Grow-Eppard
Friday, Nov 14 during academy in the library
Marge is a Bay Miwok Tribe Elder, a women's spiritual leader, President of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women & People of California. She is an amazing speaker. Please attend!

SEED Friendship Circle: Nov 20 at LOPC
Please volunteer at SEED Friendship Circle on Nov 20 at 4:30pm. It is hanging out and socializing with youth with special needs. Please let Susan know you plan to attend by emailing her at susan@lopc.org

Shop joyfully while giving generously! We are back in the holiday season and this is a perfect time to raise funds for our beloved Acalanes! Minted is offering parents 20% off our purchases AND is giving 10% of the net sales back to our fabulous school! Please use promo code FUNDRAISEACALANES upon checkout to support the Dons!

College & Career

Counseling

Counselor assignments are by student last name:
A-F Anne Schonauer  
G-Ka Erika Vasquez on campus MWTh
Ke-Re Marissa Meadows 
Rh-Z Susan Martin

COLLEGE NIGHT FOR JUNIOR PARENTS Junior Parents, we will host a college night just for you on Thursday, Nov 13 at 6:30pm in the Acalanes Library. Come hear College and Career Advisor Debbie Levy and Counselor Susan Martin talk about all things college and what you can do to support your junior as they prepare and plan for this next important step in their lives! 
 
PROGRESS REPORTS AVAILABLE Nov 17 The next grading period ends on Nov 17. Progress reports will be available in Aeries on Nov 17. This is the last grading period before the final official semester grades!  Those will be available around Jan 12.