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General Announcements
New Trustee by Area Election
Our District is moving forward with the transition to “by-trustee-area” elections, as required by the California Voting Rights Act (CVRA). We’ve just released three new draft map options (2A, 2B, and 5), bringing the total to seven maps for review.
You’re invited to take a look at the maps and share your feedback! Community input is a big part of this process, and your comments will help shape the final decision. More information can be found at this District webpage.
Oct 15, 2025 – Third Public Hearing on final map options, 7:20pm at the District Office Community Room. At this meeting, the Board will select the final trustee-area map for the Nov 2026 elections.
Can’t make it? You can still email your feedback to trusteeareafeedback@auhsdschools.org or call (925) 942-9649.
Thanks for staying engaged and helping shape our District’s future! -
APC in Action
SEPTEMBER APC DONS DIALOGUE – Slides!
Thank you to all who attended our September Dons Dialogue on Friday, we had a packed room. We kicked off the meeting with a brief General APC meeting with approval of the 2025-26 budget. This Dons Dialogue topics included: LPIE "In the Know", Transitioning to "By-Trustee-Area" Elections for Governing Board, ACA Friday Nights Committee, Homecoming, and ASB Activities Update and Q&A w/ Principal Shawn. If you were not able to attend, here are the slides from the discussion.
Thank you again to our APC Hospitality Co-Chairs, Mia Heglie and Monica Stassi, for providing the welcoming coffee and treats! The next Dons Dialogue will be on Friday, Oct 17. Click here for the full schedule of upcoming Dons Dialogues.
Fall 2025 Grants Applications: Deadline extended one more week!
Have you seen the giant blue Adirondack chair? How could you miss it?! Thanks to an APC grant, Dan Appel and his students built it last year – turning a fun woodworking project into a great team effort and a heartfelt way to honor Amin.
The APC grant application deadline has been extended! Teachers, parents, and students are invited to submit ideas for innovative programs or equipment that will enrich learning and build school spirit at AHS. Applications are due Friday, Sept 26.
Click the link for more information and to access the application.
Preparing for a Teen Driver – Free Parent Information Night
We know that the process of teaching your teen how to drive and earn their license can feel daunting. That’s why we are excited to offer an informative presentation by driving experts and Greenlight Simulation founders. Their team will lay out the steps to acquire a license and provide some foundational tips on how to approach behind-the-wheel driver training with your teen. *Flyer to follow.- What: Parent Pit Stop - A Guide To Getting Your Teen Behind The Wheel
- When: Tuesday, Oct 7, 6:30-8:00pm
- Where: Acalanes High School Library
We hope you can join us, space is limited so please be sure to RSVP here.
Stay Connected: Follow the Acalanes Parents Club on Instagram to keep up to date on what's happening at Acalanes and reminders for important dates. Please reach out to APC here with any questions. -
Acalanes Community Always (ACA)
Our registered PSAT and SAT testers need YOUR help!
We are searching for 15 folks to help with Proctoring our PSAT on the morning of Oct. 8, 2025. It is expected that the exams start promptly at 8am. Registered students will be told to show up 30 minutes prior to start time for check in. Proctors for these exams are to arrive and be ready at 7:15am. Restrictions: Parents, you are NOT allowed to proctor if you have a sophomore or junior taking the PSAT. The majority of the help needed will be for our regular time testers (PSAT can take up to 3hrs to complete) and there's a smaller group for our accommodated testers who have been approved for extra time that we can also use help with.
You can volunteer your time, or receive pay.If you are interested in learning more about proctoring these exams, please contact the Acalanes Testing Coordinator, Jamielle McDonald at jmcdonald@auhsdschools.org
Lafayette Reservoir Run
Registration is NOW OPEN for the Lafayette Res Run for Education!
Run/walk downtown Lafayette in the 2-mile fun run/walk or 5k, or strive for your best 10k time, which includes going around the Lafayette Reservoir on race day, Sunday, Oct 19. There is also a virtual option around the paved trail of the reservoir from Oct 11-18.
Lafayette's public schools are beneficiaries of this event, with 15% percent of each registration going back to Acalanes – so be sure to choose Acalanes during the registration process!- The first 100 students to register from each school will receive a voucher at packet pickup for 1/4 lb of bulk candy from Zoonie’s Candy Shop! Yes, even high school students!
- The school who increases their number of runners most compared to last year will receive an additional $500 beneficiary check!
Summer Trip to the Basque Country
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
We will be hosting an informational meeting on Tuesday, Sept 30 at the lawn in front of Sideboard, at 6:30pm. If you have any questions please reach out to Erin Field or TinaGullberg. This is not a school-sponsored trip. -
Campus Culture Committee
Black African American Advisory Meeting
Acalanes Parent Club – Campus Culture Committee (CCC) Update
Sept 15–Oct 15: National Hispanic Heritage Month
Sept 25: California Native American Day
We are the Acalanes Parent Club (APC) Campus Culture Committee (CCC) – formerly known as DEIB. This year, we are focused on building a stronger parent support system for all student groups on campus and working closely with staff on issues that impact our students. We believe that supporting students begins with supporting parents – which is why our mission includes providing mental health support, opportunities for connection, and a strong collective voice for families.
💙 Thank You!
A big thank you to the families who helped make our first Wellness & Community Building Workshop for Parents a success! Supporting students can sometimes be challenging and can cause us to forget about our own well-being. Coming together as a parent community helps us stay strong – for ourselves and for our students. The Sept 15 workshop was just the beginning! Be on the lookout for upcoming workshop dates throughout the school year; but in the meantime, you can join us for one of our scheduled monthly meetings:
2025–26 Monthly Meeting Schedule- October 20 – Virtual
- November 17 – In-Person
- December – No Meeting
- January 12 – Virtual
- February 9 – In-Person
- March 16 – Virtual
- April 20 – In-Person (Last Meeting of the Year)
- May – No Meeting
California Native American Day – Sept 25
California Native American Day is a celebration of Native American culture and contributions. Learn more about events and activities happening throughout California at nativeamericanday.org.
If you would like to get involved or if your student group needs support, please email us at diversityandinclusion@acalanesparentsclub.com. All are welcome!
Acalanes is a No Hate Zone.
If your student experiences hate or bias, please encourage them to use the Bias Incident Reporting Tool (BIRT) Bias Incident Reporting Tool (BIRT). Let’s continue working together to ensure a safe, inclusive campus for all.
Questions? Email us: diversityandinclusion@acalanesparentsclub.com -
Student Activities
HOMECOMING 2025: ACALANES GOES TO THE MOVIES
We are just 7 days away from HOCO 2025 and want to make sure that you (and your student) know the various ways to get involved in the week!- Don’t miss taking a few minutes to read the comprehensive HOCO Overview document.
- Make sure you have purchased the HOCO 2025 T-shirt. Orders close tonight!
- Our annual canned food drive begins tomorrow! There are 2 ways to donate:
- Three community events throughout the week:
- The community walkthrough of our homecoming hallways next Sunday, Sept 28, from 5:00-6:00pm. The hallways are incredible!
- The girls volleyball game on Thursday, Oct 2 at 6:30pm. Let’s pack the gym!
- Friday Night Lights on Friday, Oct 3, at 7:00pm. Let’s pack the stadium!
- Make sure your student has purchased a ticket to HOCO Night Out! Last year we had 1135 students attend & we expect the same this year. There is something for everyone at the event.
- Lastly, there are daily dress-ups, daily lunchtime activities, the HOCO rally with class skits, and student dodgeball on Wednesday, Oct 1, at 7:30pm (a not to miss night!)
Looking to stay informed? Follow us on Instagram for the latest on student activities and class happenings.
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College & Career
All Families 9-12: Unlock the Secrets to College Financial Aid: 2025–2026 Edition
Join us for this must-attend webinar hosted by College Aid Pro designed to help your family confidently navigate the college financial aid process. They'll break down what you really need to know to avoid costly mistakes and make the most of every opportunity. Can’t attend live? Register anyway and they'll send you the recording!
What you’ll learn:- Why filling out the FAFSA matters— even if you think you won’t qualify.
- How to uncover financial aid opportunities you didn’t know existed.
- Where to find scholarships— regardless of income.
- FAFSA dos and don’ts, plus key updates for 2025–2026.
- What business owners and homeowners need to know.
- Special considerations for divorced or separated families.
Sept 25, 2025, 7:00pm PT: Register here
Don’t leave money on the table—register now and take the first step toward a smarter college plan! -
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
CSF APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN SEPT 1-30: CSF (California Scholarship Federation) is an honor society. Current 10th, 11th and 12th graders are encouraged to apply. A complete CSF application has 2 parts: an application form and a payment on the webstore. Turn in forms in the counseling office. The deadline is Tuesday, Sept 30 for both the form and the payment! Students who are members for at least 4 semesters, including during senior year, will get a special stole to wear at graduation. Read the FAQ on the application form and contact Ms. Schonauer for any clarification.
INDIVIDUAL SENIOR APPOINTMENTS: Beginning the week of Sept 8, Counselors will begin calling in each senior for an individual appointment. We will review graduation status, and discuss post-high school planning and the specific support each student needs from us (such as a letter of recommendation, help refining their college list, handling logistics like matching Maia with Common App, and requesting transcripts and letters from teachers). -
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
Flag football
Monday, Sept 22 at Alhambra HS. JV 6:30pm and Varsity 7:45pm.
Tuesday, Sept 24 JV hosts Dougherty Valley HS at 6:00pm and Varsity hosts Mt. Diablo HS 7:30pm.
Girls volleyball
Tuesday, Sept 23 at Campolindo HS. Freshmen 4:30pm, JV 5:30pm, Varsity 6:30pm.
Thursday, Sept 25 hosts Northgate HS. Freshmen 4:30pm, JV 5:30pm, Varsity 6:30pm.
Saturday, Sept 27 JV hosts Acalanes Invitational.
Girls tennis
Tuesday, Sept 23 Las Lomas HS at 4:00pm. Varsity away, JV home.
Thursday, Sept 25 Northgate HS at 4:00pm. Varsity home, JV away.
Saturday, Sept 27 Varsity in Freedom Invitational.
Boys water polo
Tuesday, Sept 23 Varsity hosts Rodriguez HS at 5:30pm.
Girls water polo
Wednesday, Sept 24 hosts Archbishop Mitty HS. JV at 4:00pm and Varsity at 5:00pm.
Saturday, Sept 27 v. Soquel HS at Campolindo HS.
Girls golf
Wednesday, Sept 24 Silverado Invitational at Silverado GC.
Cross country
Wednesday, Sept 24 DAL Center Meet at Hidden Valley Park at 3:30pm.
Saturday, Sept 27 Be the GOAT Invitational at Pinole Multi-Use Trails.
Tackle football
Thursday, Sept 25 Freshman hosts Granada HS at 6:00pm.
Friday, Sept 26 at Mt. Diablo HS. JV at 4:30pm and Varsity at 7:00pm.You may view the full 2024-2025 Athletic Schedule by clicking HERE.
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General Announcements
New Trustee By Area Election
Our District is moving forward with the transition to “by-trustee-area” elections, as required by the California Voting Rights Act (CVRA). We’ve just released three new draft map options (2A, 2B, and 5), bringing the total to seven maps for review. You’re invited to take a look at the maps and share your feedback! Community input is a big part of this process, and your comments will help shape the final decision. More information can be found at this District webpage.
Upcoming Public Hearings:- Sept 17, 2025 – Second Public Hearing on draft maps, 7:20pm at the District Office Community Room (1212 Pleasant Hill Road, Lafayette).
- Oct 15, 2025 – Third Public Hearing on final map options, 7:20pm at the District Office Community Room. At this meeting, the Board will select the final trustee-area map for the Nov 2026 elections.
Can’t make it? You can still email your feedback to trusteeareafeedback@auhsdschools.org or call (925) 942-9649. Thanks for staying engaged and helping shape our District’s future!
Student Email Information
The District is committed to providing a safe and secure online environment for our students. The following protocols are in place to support a safe and secure network:- Restrictions on External Email to AUHSD Student Accounts – Students do not receive email from outside the District unless the email is from an approved organization. Organizations on the approved list include curriculum providers for AUHSD courses, select educational platforms, and educational organizations such as the College Board, the provider of the PSAT, SAT, and Advanced Placement exams.
- Internal Email Limits – Students may send email to no more than 25 recipients at one time.
The following are examples of when students should use their AUHSD email account and when they should use a private email account:
E-Bike Safety
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APC in Action
Peer Tutoring
The 2025-2026 Peer Tutoring Program is off to a great start!
Peer Tutoring aims to better the educational, social and emotional well-being of all Acalanes High School students and support them in developing the skills necessary to succeed in academics and life post high school.
We are open and ready to welcome students in Room 107. Students can drop in to receive help from junior and senior student tutors in any AHS academic subject, or just come in to do homework, read or study.
We are thankful to the Acalanes Parents Club for continuing to fully fund and support this program.
Hours of operation: Everyday @ lunch, Monday & Wednesday @ Academy, 7th period, and Monday through Thursday after school for 1 hour after the last school bell rings.
We look forward to seeing your students! Follow us on our new Instagram page: @acalanespeertutoring
Fall 2025 Grants Application Now Available!
Calling all teachers, parents, and students in the Acalanes community! Acalanes Parents Club is looking to award grants that will enhance and enrich the educational experience of AHS students in new and innovative ways. Teachers, staff, and students are encouraged to submit ideas for meaningful programs and educational equipment. Applications are due by Friday, Sept 19.
Click here to read more and access the application!
Lunchtime Volunteer Opportunity!
We have an amazing opportunity to volunteer on campus! We are looking for volunteers to help oversee the student lunch line in the cafeteria and keep it running smoothly on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Volunteer shifts are less than an hour, and there are a lot of dates to choose from. Sign up once or for multiple shifts! Volunteer with a friend! This is a super easy and fun way to volunteer on campus during lunch and support our students. Click here to learn more and to sign up! Please check in at the front office when you arrive for your volunteer shift. Go Dons!!
Preparing for a Teen Driver– Free Parent Information Night
We know that the process of teaching your teen how to drive and earn their license can feel daunting. That’s why we are excited to offer an informative presentation by driving experts and Greenlight Simulation founders. Their team will lay out the steps to acquire a license and provide some foundational tips on how to approach behind-the-wheel driver training with your teen. *Flyer to follow.- What: Parent Pit Stop - A Guide To Getting Your Teen Behind The Wheel
- When: Tuesday, Oct 7, 6:30-8:00pm
- Where: Acalanes High School Library
Stay Connected: Follow the Acalanes Parents Club on Instagram to keep up to date on what's happening at Acalanes and reminders for important dates. Please reach out to APC here with any questions.
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Acalanes Community Always (ACA)
A Few Important Dates!
Social Media
