DEI

Our First Cross-Campus Opportunity!
The Campolindo DEIB Parents invite parents and guardians from all AUHSD schools to join them for an evening of connection and community. All AUHSD parents and guardians are welcome!
This is just the beginning of what we hope will be more opportunities for families across our schools to connect, learn from one another, build relationships, and work together to support all students throughout AUHSD.
We hope to see some of our Acalanes families there!
📅 Wednesday, Sep 30
 ⏰ 6:00–8:00pm
 📍 Campolindo High School Library

Join Us for Our First CCC Meeting!
September 21 | 6:30–7:30pm | Acalanes High School
We hope you will join us for our 2026–2027 CCC Kickoff Meeting!

2026–2027 CCC Meeting Schedule | 6:30–7:30pm

• Sept 21 – CCC Kickoff Meeting | In Person
• Dec 14 – Wellness Workshop with Patrick Turner | In Person
• Jan 11 – CCC Meeting | Virtual
• May – CCC Year-End Retreat | In Person, Date TBD

🖤 Black Student Union (BSU)
 BSU students will have several opportunities to connect, learn, and build community throughout the year, including:

• Friday, Sep 18 – HBCU College Fair
• Monday, Oct 19 – BSU Summit
• November 16–18 – State BSU Conference
• February – Districtwide BSU Dance/Social

🏳️‍🌈 LGBTQ Council will continue to meet quarterly with student leaders, advisors, and district staff to collaborate on activities and opportunities that support LGBTQ+ students across AUHSD.

♿ Special Education Parent Advisory Committee meets monthly to provide families with an opportunity to connect, share information, and support the needs and experiences of students receiving special education services.

🌎 DELAC – District English Learner Advisory Committee provides an important opportunity for families of English Learner students to participate in district conversations and provide input regarding programs and services. Meetings are held at Las Lomas High School (LLHS).

💙 Have Something You’d Like Us to Bring Forward?
These districtwide parent meetings are also an opportunity for Acalanes families to have their voices represented at the district level. If there is a topic, concern, student need, or idea related to school culture, climate, inclusion, belonging, or student support that you would like us to bring forward, please reach out:
📧 diversityandinclusion@acalanesparentsclub.com

August Important Dates
August 26 – Women’s Equality Day, commemorates the certification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1920, which expanded voting rights for women in the United States. The day provides an opportunity to recognize women’s contributions to our communities and reflect on the continued importance of working toward equity and opportunity for all.

Acalanes is a No Hate Zone 
At Acalanes, we are committed to maintaining a campus where every student feels safe, respected, and valued. If your student experiences or witnesses an incident involving hate or bias, please encourage them to use the Bias Incident Reporting Tool (BIRT) BiasIncident Reporting Tool (BIRT) available on the Acalanes High School website. Reporting helps our school respond appropriately and continue fostering a culture of belonging for all.

What an amazing start to the 2026–2027 school year! It was wonderful to see so many parents, caregivers, and students at Dons Day. The students were excited, the energy was infectious, and it was a great way to kick off another year at Acalanes! We hope your students had a great start last week and, most importantly, that they felt welcomed, connected, and excited to be back on campus.

There are many ways to participate in the Acalanes Parent Club Campus Culture Committee (CCC), from attending a meeting to volunteering at an event, supporting a student club, donating needed supplies, participating in a parent activity, or simply sharing an idea or concern with us.

Join Us for Our First CCC Meeting!
September 21 | 6:30–7:30pm | Acalanes High School
We hope you will join us for our 2026–2027 CCC Kickoff Meeting!

2026–2027 CCC Meeting Schedule | 6:30–7:30pm

• Sept 21 – CCC Kickoff Meeting | In Person
• Dec 14 – Wellness Workshop with Patrick Turner | In Person
• Jan 11 – CCC Meeting | Virtual
• May – CCC Year-End Retreat | In Person, Date TBD

Continuing Our Districtwide Commitment to Belonging
As many of our families know, AUHSD experienced budget reductions that resulted in the elimination of several positions, including the Director of Student Support, Equity & Inclusion position. While this position has been eliminated, the District’s commitment to creating schools where all students feel seen, heard, valued, safe, and supported, and where their academic needs are met continues. This year, Superintendent Dr. John Nickerson will lead districtwide Culture & Climate Parent Meetings with parent leaders from each school. Our CCC will continue to serve as a connection between Acalanes families and these districtwide conversations.

August Important Dates
August 26 – Women’s Equality Day, commemorates the certification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1920, which expanded voting rights for women in the United States. The day provides an opportunity to recognize women’s contributions to our communities and reflect on the continued importance of working toward equity and opportunity for all.

Acalanes is a No Hate Zone 
At Acalanes, we are committed to maintaining a campus where every student feels safe, respected, and valued. If your student experiences or witnesses an incident involving hate or bias, please encourage them to use the Bias Incident Reporting Tool (BIRT) BiasIncident Reporting Tool (BIRT) available on the Acalanes High School website. Reporting helps our school respond appropriately and continue fostering a culture of belonging for all.

Welcome Back Dons! 

Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year! We hope you and your family had a wonderful, restful summer. As we begin a new school year, we are excited to welcome back our returning students and extend a warm welcome to those who are joining the Acalanes community for the first time.

At Acalanes, we believe every student, family, and staff member deserves to feel seen, valued, respected, and connected. We invite you to join us in helping make our campus a place where everyone feels a sense of belonging every time they walk through our doors.

The Acalanes Parent Club Campus Culture Committee (CCC) works to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging across our school community. Through partnerships with students, staff, and families, we support opportunities for learning, meaningful conversations, parent education, and community building.

• Wednesday, Aug 12 – International Youth Day: Recognized annually by the United Nations, International Youth Day celebrates the contributions of young people while bringing attention to issues affecting youth around the world. It reminds us that young people are leaders, innovators, and changemakers whose voices are essential in building stronger communities.
• Wednesday, Aug 26 – Women’s Equality Day: Women’s Equality Day commemorates the certification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which granted many women the right to vote in 1920. The day celebrates the ongoing pursuit of gender equity and recognizes the many contributions women have made—and continue to make—to our communities and society.

2026-2027 Meeting Schedule
6:30–7:30pm

• Monday, Sept 21 – In-Person Meeting
• Monday, Dec 14 – Parent Wellness Workshop (In Person) with Patrick Turner
• Monday, Jan 11 – Virtual Meeting
• May – CCC Year-End Retreat (In Person – Date TBD)

Whether you’re attending for the first time or returning as a longtime volunteer, all families are welcome! We hope you’ll join us as we continue building a connected, inclusive, and welcoming Acalanes community.

Acalanes is a No Hate Zone 
At Acalanes, we are committed to maintaining a campus where every student feels safe, respected, and valued. If your student experiences or witnesses an incident involving hate or bias, please encourage them to use the Bias Incident Reporting Tool (BIRT) Bias Incident Reporting Tool (BIRT) available on the Acalanes High School website.
 👉 Submit a BIRT Report Here » Reporting helps our school respond appropriately and continue fostering a culture of belonging for all.

Thank you for partnering with us to create a school community where every student can thrive. We look forward to an exciting year of learning, connection, and community with all of our DONS families!

💙 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.
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

🌟 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.

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

💚 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
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