CVUSD Community Connection Newsletter - September 11, 2026

As we pause to remember September 11, 2001, we honor the many lives lost, the families and communities forever changed, and the extraordinary courage of the first responders and everyday people who stepped forward to help others. Twenty-five years later, September 11 remains a solemn reminder of both the devastating impact of hate and the remarkable strength that can emerge through compassion, courage, and unity. As an educational community, we have an important responsibility to help our students understand this history, while also modeling the values we hope they will carry forward…kindness, empathy, respect, and care for one another. Today, we remember those we lost, honor those who served and sacrificed, and recommit ourselves to building school communities where every person feels safe, valued, and connected. 

Volunteers make a meaningful difference in our classrooms, schools, activities, and special events. Whether you are planning to help in a classroom, chaperone a field trip, support a school event, or drive students, please be aware that CVUSD has updated its volunteer clearance requirements for the 2026–27 school year.

The clearance level you need will depend on the type of volunteer service you plan to provide. Families are encouraged to review the new guidelines and begin the appropriate clearance process early so they are ready when volunteer opportunities arise.

We are pleased to share CVUSD’s 2025–26 Annual Report, celebrating a year of learning, growth, collaboration, and achievement across our district.

The report highlights the accomplishments of our students and staff, progress toward district priorities, new and expanded programs, 

community partnerships, financial information, and the work taking place across our schools to support every student.

We invite you to explore the report and learn more about the people, programs, and progress that made the 2025–26 school year memorable.

During the first weeks of school, Canyon Middle School’s WEB student leaders helped create a welcoming and supportive environment for students as they adjusted to a new school year.

Through classroom activities, campus connections, and informal time together, WEB leaders helped younger students become familiar with Canyon, build new friendships, and feel more confident as members of the school community. Their leadership, encouragement, and school spirit helped set a positive tone for the year ahead.

On September 10, Chabot hosted its second annual Multicultural Night, bringing together students, families, and staff to celebrate the rich diversity of our school community. The evening featured cultural displays, traditions, and foods representing countries and cultures from around the world. We were also pleased to welcome CVHS students, who shared special performances with our community. It was a wonderful evening of connection, learning, and celebration.

Palomares Elementary students and staff recently welcomed representatives from the Castro Valley Sanitary District and celebrated the school’s Green Ribbon recognition. The award honors Palomares’ continued commitment to reducing waste, promoting environmental awareness, and encouraging responsible stewardship across campus.

At its September 9 meeting, the Board of Education received an update on CVUSD’s longstanding partnership with the Castro Valley Sanitary District (CVSan).

For more than 30 years, CVSan has supported environmental education and waste-reduction efforts in local schools through classroom presentations, field trips, Green Ribbon certification, staff training, recycling and composting resources, equipment donations, and school garden support.

Thousands of CVUSD students participate in CVSan programs each year. The partnership has also produced measurable results: CVUSD schools have significantly reduced garbage service levels, saving the district more than $271,000 annually while supporting more sustainable campuses.

At its September 9 meeting, the CVUSD Board of Education adopted a resolution recognizing September 15 through October 15, 2026, as Hispanic Heritage Month.

Throughout the month, CVUSD joins communities across the nation in celebrating the histories, cultures, achievements, and contributions of Hispanic and Latiné Americans. Schools are encouraged to commemorate the month through meaningful learning experiences and activities that help students recognize the individuals and communities whose contributions have shaped our local community, California, and the nation.

During the 2025–2026 school year, CVUSD’s Child Nutrition Services team served more than 1.3 million meals to students across the district!

Each breakfast and lunch helps ensure students have access to nutritious meals that keep them fueled, focused, and ready to learn. Thank you to our dedicated Child Nutrition Services employees for preparing and serving meals to students every school day.