Friday Letter - January 9, 2026

JANUARY 9, 2026 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 8 NO. 20 Dear MDUSD Community, Welcome back and Happy New Year! We are thrilled to have our students return to their schools and classrooms. Our students bring with them fresh energy and enthusiasm. Actually, they are the only reason why MDUSD exists. So with that said, let’s dive into this week’s Friday Letter! As we begin 2026, we are focused on supporting each student’s growth and success. This week’s Friday Letter offers just a little glimpse into the remarkable things our students are doing - such as community service, academics, athletic excellence and artistic expression. Their stories inspire us and reflect the values of leadership, creativity, and compassion that we work hard to nurture every day within our schools. We’re excited to spotlight the 3rd Annual Middle School Career Technical Education (CTE) Fair, held Thursday at Riverview Middle School . Hundreds of 8th grade students from across the District, along with  5th graders from Shore Acres Elementary , had the opportunity to explore high school pathways and career options. This event was a powerful reminder that it’s never too early to start planning to accomplish big things. Over Winter Break, Valley View Middle School 7th grader Maya Alonso created her own community service project by delivering gift baskets and handmade ornaments to local law enforcement agencies, and also helped stuff stockings for families in need.  Zachary Lee, a College Now 11th grader originally from Northgate High , earned second place in Diablo Valley College’s “Business Pitch” competition for his creative idea, “Leftoverly,” a business concept designed to help restaurants sell surplus food.  In athletics, five MDUSD High School Football players  were recognized with Honorable Mentions by the Bay Area News Group for their standout performances, including  Jayden Auld (College Park HS); Andrew Lopez (Concord HS); Antonio Campbell III and Michael Vasquez (Mt. Diablo HS); and Dax Gordon (Northgate HS) . Other highlights include: Art from Sequoia MS students on display at Pleasant Hill City Hall Northgate HS earns AP Honor Roll "Gold" Distinction School Social Media Highlights featuring the MS CTE Fair and other activities Thank you for continuing to support our students and schools. Here's to a new year filled with learning, opportunity, and the continued celebration of our incredible MDUSD students! Dr. Adam Clark Spotlight 3rd Annual Career Technical Education Fair for 8th-graders shows students HS career pathways MDUSD Middle School students learned about Career Technical Education pathway courses available at District high schools and careers options after graduation, such as welding in the Transportation Tech pathway at Concord HS (above left), the BioMed pathway at College Park HS (above center), the Engineering pathway at Ygnacio Valley HS (above right), the Patient Care pathway at Mt. Diablo HS (below left), and the Animation pathway at Northgate HS (below right). The 3rd Annual MDUSD Career Technical Education (CTE) Fair for middle school students on Jan. 8th at Riverview MS gave 8th-graders from all middle schools in the District the opportunity to learn about career options after high school such as working for local agencies including the Contra Costa Water District or PG&E, and to find out about the different career pathways in MDUSD high schools such as construction, engineering, healthcare, auto tech, digital media and JROTC. "The goal of this event is for students to learn about some careers in different industries," said Heather Fontanilla, MDUSD's Director of College & Career Readiness. "Another goal is for them to learn about the different pathway programs at the high schools so that they can consider the options when they are completing course cards for the 2026-2027 school year."  The event featured 13 different education and industry partners, as well as 11 career pathways from District high schools, with teachers and high school students showcasing the work they do and offering hands-on experiences to the middle school students. It also included post-secondary education providers including MDUSD Adult Education, Diablo Valley College and Cal State East Bay. "We're very excited to be hosting the fair," said Riverview MS Principal Veronica McLennan. "It's a great opportunity for our students to learn about the different programs in our schools and what's offered in our community." To help keep students engaged, they were given a "BINGO Card" that asked them to visit booths and to share feedback about what they learned, said Anna Ramos, MDUSD's Manager of Youth Development & Support Services, who coordinated the fair. She said Shore Acres Elementary 5th-graders, who will attend Riverview MS next year, also got a sneak peak at the campus and the fair. The hands-on activities included welding, practicing CPR and interacting with a robot, under the supervision of MDUSD Career Pathways high school students. Concord HS Transportation Tech student Mario Rodriguez, who taught 8th-graders how to weld at the event, said his classes teach students life skills that will benefit them even if they don't end up becoming auto technicians. Mario said career pathways can "lead you to what you want to do in life." CHS Auto Tech teacher Greg Golson said the Fair gave 8th-grade students the opportunity to get a glimpse of the skills they can develop in high school that they wouldn't ordinarily get to see.  Mt. Diablo HS Patient Care pathway seniors Tiffany Dong and Elsey Campos Perez said they both want to work in healthcare after graduation and their pathway courses are giving them a head start on what they need to learn, including CPR. Similarly, the Principles of Biomedical Science Pathway at College Park HS also attracts students interested in healthcare fields. Riverview MS 8th grader Bryan Alvarez said he wants to learn more about the human body. "I really like science, but I also like acting," he said. Mt. Diablo HS also has a Digital Arts program in which some students create videos. Bryan's sister Stephanie Alvarez, who is the Riverview MS Community School Coordinator, said the fair exceeded the expectations of many 8th graders, who thought it wouldn't be very interesting before they attended, but who were excited after they went. "It's a great idea," she said.  Ygnacio Valley HS Engineering teacher Joseph Alvarico, whose students demonstrated a robot they created in the school's  Robotics Club , said the fair helped 8th graders get hands on experience related to careers they could pursue in the future, and helped his high school students build presentation, leadership and communications skills. "So, it serves both of them well - the high school and the middle school students," he said. High school career pathway programs that participated in the fair were: Biomedical Science, and Photography at College Park HS; Engineering, Art & Digital Media/Photography, and Transportation at Concord HS; Auto/Transportation Tech, Culinary Arts, Patient Care and JROTC at Mt. Diablo HS; Animation at Northgate HS; and Education, and Engineering at Ygnacio Valley HS. Students interested in programs not offered at their "home" high schools would need to apply for an intra-district transfer to participate in some programs.  Click here to watch a reel  featuring highlights from the event and check out the School Social Media highlights below to see more photos from the Fair. District News January is Attendance Intervention Month Welcome back to school! January is a great time to re-establish strong attendance routines. Being at school every day helps students stay connected, confident, and on track. MDUSD is recognizing January as Attendance Intervention Month . Here are a few ways to support your child this winter: Health questions: If your student is sick or you're unsure whether they should attend school, contact your child's medical provider or call the school office. Click HERE for Guidance (English). Click HERE for Guidance (SPANISH). Cold weather clothing: If your student needs a coat, hat, or gloves, please contact the SOAR Office at (925) 685-1011 x62042 or soar@mdusd.org Staying on track: If your child must stay home, encourage them to check Google Classroom and Classlink for assignments and learning resources. If you need support with attendance or resources, please contact your child's school office. Click HERE to locate your students' school website(s). January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month For  National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, the SOAR Program presents learning opportunities for parents, staff, and community members  Online Self-Paced Courses  (see attached PDF flyers for embedded links) For Staff 1-hour training with interactive scenarios, downloadable resources, and a certificate of completion [ Click Here to Enroll ] Student Curriculum (K-12) Age-appropriate lessons for the classroom [ Click Here to Enroll ] For Parents and Caregivers Interactive online courses with downloadable resources in English and Spanish [ Click Here to Download ] Learning Objectives Identify human trafficking and the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC) Recognize possible risk factors and vulnerabilities Understand how youth are affected Learn how to help and services available Live Events Human Trafficking 101 Training Wednesday, January 14th, 2026; 6 PM - 7 PM [ Registration Link ] Virtual Film Screening and Documentary Discussion  (Mature Audiences Only) January 15th, 2026; 6:30 PM - 8 PM [ Registration Link ] Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC) 101 Training Monday, January 19th, 2026; 6 PM - 7 PM [ Registration Link ] Human Trafficking 101 Training (In Spanish) Tuesday, January 20th, 2026; 6 PM - 7 PM [ Registration Link ] Buying Her (Film Screening and Panel Discussion) Friday, January 23rd, 2026, 6 PM, El Campanil Theatre, W. 2nd St., Antioch [ Link to Flyer ] MDUSD Adult Education Lifelong Learning program offers new classes in January MDUSD's Adult Lifelong Education program has plenty to offer in January, including: art, cooking, crafts, dance, finance, fitness, home improvement, language, music, personal enrichment, technology, woodcarving, woodturning (pictured right), and woodworking!  Details are in the program's  January newsletter here .  More information about Mt. Diablo Adult Education is on the MDAE website here .  California mental wellness health initiative  MDUSD would like to remind families about the California Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI) which is a five-year, more than $4 billion initiative that is transforming the way California supports children, youth, and families. The State of California is partnering with districts and health plans to improve the behavioral health and well-being of children, youth, and families by investing in mental health promotion, prevention, and public awareness—and by removing barriers to accessing these supports. Under the CYBHI fee schedule program, California’s health plans and insurers are now required to reimburse public schools for covered mental health services provided to students. This means more resources for Mt. Diablo Unified School District students and families! State law prohibits health plans and insurers from passing any of the cost of these services on to families. Health plans and insurers will pay for mental health services provided to your child in a school-linked setting, and there will be no out-of-pocket expenses (such as co-payments or deductibles) for you or your family. To help Mt. Diablo Unified School District obtain this important funding from health plans and insurers, including the Medi-Cal program, please fill out the  CYBHI consent form . For more information please visit MDUSD's CYBHI webpage and view our CYBHI Video . Board Briefs: Board meets Wednesday to hear report on Yondr pouches, approve MDSPA contract The MDUSD Board will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14 in the District Office Boardroom to hear a report on the impact of Yondr Cell Phone Pouches at College Park and Northgate high schools, and review and potentially approve the Tentative Agreement between the Mt. Diablo School Psychologist Association (MDSPA) and the District, among other items. The agenda is here . Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark's Weekly Organizational Update to the Board, which includes detailed District operations reports from Department leaders, i s here . An archive of past reports is here . Information night for MDUSD Teacher Residency Program with St. Mary's College of CA is Jan. 15 MDUSD, in collaboration with St. Mary’s College of California, launched a  Teacher Residency Grant Program this school year and is preparing to enter into the second year of the program for the 2026–27 school year. This hands-on residency supports candidates pursuing a Multiple Subject, Special Education, or Single Subject (Math or Science) California preliminary teaching credential, with an option to add a Bilingual Spanish Authorization. Program highlights include: • Monthly stipend • Individualized mentorship in an MDUSD classroom • Guaranteed substitute teaching opportunities • Priority consideration for future MDUSD teaching positions We invite you to attend our upcoming Information Session from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15 at Willow Creek Center in Concord to learn more about the program and application process.  More information about the program is here .  Please Click Here to Register . Martin Luther King Jr. District-Wide Celebration is Jan. 15; schools closed Jan. 19 MDUSD's Martin Luther King Jr. District-Wide Celebration is at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15 at Concord HS, 4200 Concord Blvd. in Concord. The event, “Examining the Legacy and Last Days of MLK,” will provide an opportunity for our District community to come together in reflection, learning, and celebration of Dr. King’s enduring impact on education, equity, and social justice. Schools and District Offices will be closed on Monday, Jan. 19 for the MLK Jr. Holiday. MDUSD's SOAR (Support Office for Access and Resources) is collecting donations through Jan. 30 SOAR's annual donation drive helps support our students who are unhoused, foster youth, newcomers and refugees, LGBTQIA+, justice involved youth, human trafficking survivors or other extreme circumstances. Funds raised may be used to provide families with resources, clothing and other essentials. Monetary donations may be made via check, cash or Venmo (@MDUSDSOAR). Send checks to SOAR at Willow Creek Center, 1026 Mohr Lane, Concord, CA 94518. Donations are being accepted through Jan. 30, 2026. MDUSD Transportation Survey available through Jan. 31st MDUSD's Transportation Department survey is now available on the District website . We encourage families and staff to participate and share their feedback through Jan. 31. Please access the survey here .  Student News Valley View MS 7th Grader thanks local first responders through Community Service project  Maya Alonso and Concord Police (above), and with Assemblywoman Avila Feria (below). Over the winter holiday break, Valley View MS 7th grader Maya Alonso initiated her own community service project to thank local first responders. She reached out to Concord Police, Pleasant Hill Police and Contra Costa County Sheriffs to find out what items they could accept and what officers would most appreciated having in their break rooms. She then gathered donations of sweet and savory snacks from her family and friends to help spread holiday cheer. To supplement these donations, Maya created large, homemade wooden holiday ornaments, adding a personal and lasting touch to her gifts. On December 22, Maya delivered the care packages and ornaments to the Concord Police Department (above right), Pleasant Hill Police Department, and the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Custody Unit at the Martinez Detention Facility (above left). She was especially excited to learn that Pleasant Hill Police Officer Bradley Pon (above center), whom she met while making the deliveries, graduated from College Park HS, which she expects to attend as well!  “I’ve always wanted to do things for first responders,” Maya said. “Seeing how much this brightened their day meant a lot to me. I plan to keep this going every year!” Maya also participated in Assemblywoman Ávila Farías’ (D-Martinez) Stocking Stuffing Community Event  on Dec. 19 (above lower left), where she helped stuff holiday stockings for youth in our local juvenile hall, as well as for children and families who attended a Community Toy Drive on December 20.   College Now 11th grader Zachary Lee earns 2nd Place in DVC “Business Pitch” competition MDUSD is proud that College Now 11th grader Zachary Lee, who transferred into the program at Diablo Valley College (DVC) from Northgate HS, earned Second Place in the recent "4CD Business Pitch Competition" held on the campus.  Student entrepreneurs from across the Contra Costa Community College District showcased ideas spanning wellness technology, food sustainability and student support services at the event, reported DVC Journalism Teacher Charleen Earley in the  East Bay Times .  Second place and $500 was awarded to Leftoverly, founded by Zachary Lee, a dual-enrolled College Now DVC student. His platform is said to be designed to help restaurants reduce food waste by selling surplus meals at affordable prices. Lee lives in Concord and said Leftoverly was inspired by a short video he encountered online. “I saw a man go into a Little Caesar’s at closing time and ask if he could have the leftover food, and they gave it to him for free,” Lee said. “It made me think about how many restaurants struggle with food waste and how many people don’t realize how much good food goes unused.” Lee said participating in the competition was exciting and intimidating at the same time, particularly as a 16-year-old competing against older community college students. “It taught me a lot about presenting and pitching in front of judges,” he said. “This was my first time participating, and it was a great learning experience.” Leftoverly has two primary goals, Lee said: reducing food waste in local communities and improving food affordability by selling recovered food at reasonable prices for students and low-income families. While he plans to focus on his coursework for now, Lee said he may continue developing the business in the future. 5 MDUSD HS Football players receive Honorable Mentions from Bay Area News Group MDUSD is proud that five of our High School Football players were recently recognized with Honorable Mentions by the Bay Area News Group for their standout performances:  Quarterbacks — Michael Vasquez (Mt. Diablo HS) Utility players —Antonio Campbell III (Mt. Diablo HS) and Dax Gordon (Northgate HS)  Wide Receivers —Jayden Auld (College Park HS) and Andrew Lopez (Concord HS) Art from Sequoia MS students on display at Pleasant Hill City Hall The City of Pleasant Hill invites community members to come check out the new art exhibit by students at Sequoia Middle School on display at City Hall, 100 Gregory Ln.  "Students took on the theme of ReUse to create fantastic self portraits using recycled materials," the city posted on Facebook . "The student art program is brought to you by the City of Pleasant Hill Education Commission." Display cases are in the main lobby of City Hall, open during regular business hours. School News Northgate High School Named to Advanced Placement School Honor Roll for 2nd Year The College Board announced that Northgate High School has been named to the 2025 Advanced Placement® Program (AP®) School Honor Roll, earning Gold distinction. The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results for students while broadening participation. Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness. Northgate had 68% of seniors who took at least one AP Exam during high school, 56% of seniors scoring a 3 or higher on at least one AP Exam, and 26% of seniors who took five or more AP Exams! Northgate has seen a steady increase both in participation and in pass rate for their AP courses, with several subject areas boasting 100% pass rates for their students in 2025, including 2D Art, Drawing, PreCalculus, and US History. Some highlights of Northgate’s AP program include: 24 Courses Offered 44 Sections 17 Teachers “This recognition celebrates our students who are willing to stretch themselves academically and teachers who support them every step of the way," said Principal Kelly Cooper. "The AP Honor Roll Gold Award affirms that our students are taking on rigorous coursework, persisting through challenge, and succeeding! I am incredibly proud of their commitment, resilience, and excellence.” Trevor Packer, head of the AP program, added: “AP gives students opportunity to engage with college-level work, earn college credit and placement, and build professional career skills they can use no matter what path they choose after high school. Congratulations to this year’s AP School Honor Roll recipients for proving it’s possible to expand participation in these rigorous courses and still drive strong performance.” School Social Media Highlights Gregory Gardens Elementary, Walnut Acres Elementary, Shore Acres Elementary at Riverview MS MDUSD elementary students have been enjoying their time together after Winter Break!  Recent Social Media highlights include: Gregory Gardens Elementary teachers and students happily reconnecting; Walnut Acres Elementary 2nd graders participating in a “Book Tasting” activity; and Shore Acres Elementary 5th graders attending the CTE Fair at Riverview MS and getting a campus tour from alumni!   Oak Grove MS, Riverview MS, College Now and Concord HS  MDUSD middle and high school students have been busy launching into their Second Semester. Recent Social Media highlights include: Oak Grove MS students learning to weld at the CTE Fair; Riverview MS proudly hosting MDUSD’s 8th grade CTE Fair; College Now students beginning their 2nd semester with crowns, kind words and community circles; and the Concord HS Bears Men's Soccer team is ready for action! Community News Concord Juneteenth Art Contest deadline is February 1 Organizers of the Concord Juneteenth Celebration invite youth artists to create an original design inspired by freedom, culture, and Black History to be considered for use as the official event flyer.  The event will take place June 27th at Todos Santos Plaza in Concord from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Email art to ConcordJ19@gmail.com. The deadline is February 1st.  . Important Dates Jan. 13 : Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC)  meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Jan. 14 : District Governing Board  meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Jan 15:  Information night for MDUSD Teacher Residency Program with St. Mary's College of CA at 4:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center (See District News above); District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center; Martin Luther King Jr. District-Wide Celebration at 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15 at Concord HS Jan. 19:  Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday (Schools and District Offices closed) Jan. 20: District Parent Advisory Committee (PAC)  meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord Jan. 21 : District Governing Board  meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Jan. 27:  District Budget Advisory Committee (BAC)  meeting at 6 p.m. at the District Office The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Jan 10 2026

Friday Letter - December 19, 2025

DECEMBER 19, 2025 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 8 NO. 19 Dear MDUSD Community, Good bye to 2025! Our schools have been buzzing with fun and energy that only the holiday season can bring. From winter concerts and festive celebrations to classroom projects and creative showcases, this week has been a beautiful reflection of the spirit and heart of Mt. Diablo Unified. In this Friday Letter we are proud to spotlight the work of Social Studies teachers Erica Shaw from College Now and Bryan Shaw from Ygnacio Valley High School.  These outstanding educators recently  presented at the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) Conference, highlighting powerful, inquiry-driven lessons that put students at the center of their learning . Through initiatives like Project Citizen, which asks students to research real-world issues and present policy solutions to local leaders and deeply personal Oral Family History projects, Erica and Bryan are helping students connect with their communities, their cultures, and one another in tremendous ways. Throughout the District, this week has been nonstop! We’re excited to feature the Bridge Program students’ latest newscast and their behind-the-scenes visit to KTVU, providing a real-world learning experience they will never forget. Families came together at Mountain View Elementary for a Winter Education Night , Shore Acres hosted its 3rd Annual Pozolada ,  students from Valle Verde and Walnut Acres displayed their artwork during the Orchards Shopping Center’s Annual Art Walk,  and   College Park High School reopened its Wellness Center . In this season of giving, we also want to recognize the incredible compassion and community-building efforts happening in our schools. At  Hidden Valley Elementary, parent liaison Cynthia Duarte Bishop  partnered with the PFC, community organizations, and our SOAR office to support 23 families with gifts, food, and warm coats. This is just one of the many examples of how our staff go above and beyond to care for our students and families. As we say goodbye to 2025 and look ahead to 2026, I want to thank each of you, including our students, families, staff, and community partners for your continued support and commitment to Mt. Diablo. I am incredibly proud of the progress we've made together this year, and excited for what lies ahead. Wishing you all a happy and safe winter break! Dr. Adam Clark Spotlight MDUSD Social Studies teachers showcase inquiry-based student lessons at national conference Social studies teachers Bryan Shaw (Ygnacio Valley HS) and his wife Erica Shaw (College Now) present a workshop on inquiry-based instruction at a national educators conference (left). College Now students Nathan Wehrmeister, Soha Ahmadzi and Samuel Utoikamanu researched immigrants' rights for their Project Citizen presentation (center). Bryan Shaw discusses a student's Oral Family History project video in his Ethnic Studies class at Ygnacio Valley HS (above right). MDUSD strives to graduate students who think critically, respect diverse cultures, are self-directed learners, and understand how our local, state and federal governments work so they can advocate for themselves and others through civic engagement. Social Studies teachers Bryan and Erica Shaw - who teach at Ygnacio Valley HS and the College Now program at Diablo Valley College - are so passionate about helping students to develop these skills that they have spent years creating and/or implementing inquiry-based, student-driven projects that require students to delve deeply into topics that interest them or are personally relevant to them, sparking discussions that help their classes better understand complex societal issues such as immigration, cultural identities, equitable education, and the importance of individual voices in democracy. Based on the successes they have experienced with these projects, the Shaws ( who are married ) recently presented their lesson ideas to educators from around the country at the National Council for the Social Studies Conference (NCSS). The lessons include " Project Citizen, " which involves in depth research into a problem and the creation of a proposed policy solution presented to a panel of local civic leaders, and Oral Family History projects that require students to explore their cultural heritage and family history by interviewing a family member, then creating videos shown to the class, which help build empathy and understanding among diverse students. "The goal of the Project Citizen curriculum is to develop civic-minded students and to get them engaged in some sort of civic action," said Erica, after her seniors presented their projects on Dec. 16 to Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark, along with some school Board Members, District Administrators and two Concord City Council members. "Our hope is that we can introduce more teachers in the District to this." Erica has also written a U.S. History project for juniors in which they study struggles for equity in the U.S. among African Americans in the first quarter, then choose a different group - such as Hispanics, Asians, LGBTQ people, women or Native Americans - and read a book in English class about that group, and create a social media campaign to inform their peers about a social issue they're facing. "Juniors analyze what has changed and what has stayed the same," she said. In both projects, students do their own thinking and come to their own conclusions, Erica said. "One of my core values is that I don't want to teach students what to think. They're asking questions and coming to conclusions and I'm teaching them how to access resources. Speaking to a panel of civic leaders shows students that their voices matter and as adults, they will know that they have the right to speak up for what they want in their local governments and they learn how to." Two classes of College Now students collaborated on projects that they voted to research. One advocated for the expansion of Ethnic Studies in schools and the other advocated for public displays of "Know Your Rights" cards for immigrants who may encounter ICE agents. They researched existing laws and discussed the advantages and disadvantages of their proposals. After the presentations, Dr. Clark said he was extremely proud of the students and that the projects were much more beneficial to them than simply taking a final exam. "You will always remember this," he said, adding that the issues they raised, including cultural competency and protecting immigrant families, are also important to the MDUSD School Board. He praised their research, which included surveys and interviews, as well as their balanced presentation of the facts on both sides of the issues. "Our future is in great hands with leaders such as yourselves." Students KiMaya Friedman and Mya Santiago, who advocated for the expansion of Ethnic Studies, said the project was beneficial because it helped them and their classmates understand the importance of learning about other cultures. "It would be great if school districts across the entire U.S. could also come up with this kind of structure so everyone is inclusive and able to understand each others' backgrounds," said KiMaya, who is African American, adding that she realized after talking to her classmates that she is not the only one who has experienced racism. "I can connect with these people and make change." Mya, who is Mexican American, said she was pleased by the diversity of the panel that listened to their presentations and was encouraged by Dr. Clark's feedback. "It boosted my confidence in my role in government and my community and my city and my district," she said. "This has given us an insight into what we are capable of doing. It’s very beneficial and it’s helped me to be more confident that the words I have to say are able to be heard and I have a lot of knowledge to share and people are ready to listen."  Students Nathan Wehrmeister, Soha Ahmadzi, and Samuel Utoikamanu - who advocated for wide distribution of Know Your Rights information for immigrants - said the project was more beneficial than just taking a test because it taught them about the process for changing policies in their local communities. And they all agreed that Erica is a fantastic teacher who respects their individual backgrounds. "It makes you feel included and want to learn more about the subject," said Soha, who is Middle Eastern. "Her energy is contagious. When you first walk into class, she has a big smile on her face, ready to talk about history. We all love her.:" Bryan's 12th grade Government students are also working on Project Citizen presentations, which they will give after the Winter Break. This week, his Ethnic Studies class students presented their Oral Family History video projects, which Bryan developed six years ago. Since then, he has collaborated with other Education Academy and International Baccalaureate ( IB ) teachers to expand the project as a cross-curricular final. Next semester, in Ethnic Studies, students will do a Memorial Project, in which they find a group, person or event that deserves a Memorial, but doesn't have one. They create a memorial in their education class, then create a 10-minute podcast in their English class, which helps them to earn the  State Seal of Civic Engagement , if they complete the required paperwork. The goal of the oral history project, Bryan said, "is to elevate marginalized voices and add them to historical narratives." Often, he explained, students are not interested in the figures they learn about in U.S. history because they cannot identify with them. Sharing their family histories builds empathy and builds community, as they honor each other's family experiences and sacrifices.   In two hours, the class watched intensely personal video interviews produced by nine students, covering topics including immigration; the death, incarceration or deportation of a parent; and enduring family bonds. The videos included captions, since some interviews were in languages other than English, as well as some tears, as students' parents and grandparents talked about their family's challenges and hopes for the students' futures. Bryan encouraged students to look for commonalities among the diverse stories. Students noticed that many families faced struggles and a majority of them were immigrants. But all of the family members interviewed said they wanted the students to graduate from high school and go onto college and/or fulfilling careers, and to live happy lives.  Precious Johnson, who interviewed her 67-year-old grandmother, said she enjoyed learning about her family history and was proud of her grandma's service in the military. "I liked this way better than a test or an essay," she said, adding that it helped her to understand her classmates. "I liked seeing different people's cultures and families." Bryan said the class will finish watching all of the student videos after winter break. He said project-based learning requires students to dig around and do research and produce something they are proud of. "Especially since so many of our students are first or second generation, we're hoping it motivates them to see why education is important, both formal and informal," he said. Education is very important to Bryan and Erica. They are still students themselves - both pursuing Masters Degrees in U.S. History with an emphasis in Constitutional Studies, funded in part by competitive fellowship grants  they received from the James Madison Foundation. They are both attending Gettysburg College and are writing their thesis papers in the spring. Bryan will focus on the Port Chicago Mutiny trial and Erica will focus on the influence of Black women in Oakland after the Suffrage movement, looking at their role in the formation of the Black Panthers. "We have great conversations," Bryan said, with a smile.  District News No school during Winter Recess from Dec. 22 through Jan. 2 MDUSD schools will be closed for Winter Recess from Dec. 22 through Jan. 2. District Offices will be open to the public Dec. 22-23 and Dec. 29-30. District Offices will be closed to the public Dec. 24-25 and Dec. 31-Jan. 2. Schools and District Offices will reopen on Monday, Jan. 5, 2026. Happy Holidays! There will be no Friday Letter during Winter Recess.  Board Briefs: Next Board meeting is Jan. 14; January is Attendance Intervention Month Due to the Winter Recess, the MDUSD Board will not hold a second meeting in December. The next meeting is at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14 in the District Office Boardroom. The agenda will be posted here after 5 p.m. Jan. 9. Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark's Weekly Organizational Update to the Board, which includes detailed District operations reports from Department leaders, is here . An archive of past reports is here . The MDUSD Board has adopted a resolution designating January as Attendance Intervention Month , renewing the "Here today, ready for tomorrow" attendance campaign begun in September.  MDUSD Transportation Survey available through Jan. 31st MDUSD's Transportation Department survey is now available on the District website . We encourage families and staff to participate and share their feedback through Jan. 31. Please access the survey here.   MDUSD's SOAR (Support Office for Access and Resources) is collecting donations through Jan. 30 SOAR's annual donation drive helps support our students who are unhoused, foster youth, newcomers and refugees, LGBTQIA+, justice involved youth, human trafficking survivors or other extreme circumstances. Funds raised may be used to provide families with resources, clothing and other essentials. Monetary donations may be made via check, cash or Venmo (@MDUSDSOAR). Send checks to SOAR at Willow Creek Center, 1026 Mohr Lane, Concord, CA 94518. Donations are being accepted through Jan. 30, 2026. Fourth Annual Districtwide Kwanzaa Celebration brings together families, staff, and community  MDUSD proudly hosted its Fourth Annual Districtwide Kwanzaa Celebration at Rio Vista Elementary School, bringing together students, families, staff, and community members for an evening rooted in culture, unity, and reflection, said Dr. Lamont Francies, Family Engagement Coordinator. The event highlighted the seven principles of Kwanzaa (Nguzo Saba), presented by district and community leaders. Dr. Francies opened the evening with Umoja (Unity), later sharing reflections on Imani (Faith) and leading the Ancestral Libation. Additional presenters included Raymond Lenard, Vice Principal of Concord High (Kujichagulia), Dr. Lawrence Rasheed of P.O.W.E.R. Black Male Literacy (Ujima), Dr. Carrie Frazier, Director of Village Keepers (Ujamaa), Caprisha Moody of Holbrook Academy (Nia), and Dr. Ronald Richardson, Principal of College Park High (Kuumba). Storytelling by Ms. Floranne Dunford added cultural depth to the celebration, Dr. Francies said. Families and students participated in a districtwide literacy activity and gained access to vital community resources shared by Dr. Carrie Frazier and Village Keepers. The evening concluded with fellowship over delicious jerk chicken and jollof rice, as families from across the district came together to celebrate shared values and connection.  "Thank you to the district administrators, staff, families, and community members who made this celebration a success," Dr. Francies said, adding that the event "was a powerful reminder of the district’s commitment to honoring cultural traditions, strengthening family engagement, and building community. A great time was truly had by all!!" Student News  Bridge Program students create monthly newscast and go on behind-the-scenes visit to KTVU Bridge Program students tour the KTVU studio (above and below right). Bridge students' December newscast (below right).                                                                                                                                                      MDUSD's Bridge Program is proud to share that students have begun creating a monthly newscast this school year, after School Administrator Joel Miner came up with the idea, said teacher Gianna Thompson. "I gladly took that task on with my class," she said. "Our students participate in every aspect of creating a newscast. They research stories, decide on people to interview in the community and at Bridge, they write scripts, record videos and edit the newscast using  Canva . It has been a great project which lends to so many learning opportunities." Recently, the students had the opportunity to visit KTVU. "Since starting this project we thought it would be exciting to see what a real news station is like," Thompson said. "Through a connection I have with a retired news anchor, we were able to set up a behind the scene tour. We toured the different filming areas, learned about the production process and met some of the anchors. Our students explained our news process to the KTVU anchors. They gave us some basic pointers and were very proud of our students for creating our own in-house newscast. It was a great tour and the people at KTVU were very kind and engaging with our students." Miner called this a "super cool" Community Based Instruction outing for the students and he credited Thomspon, along with Special Education Assistants Joline Sewell and Janelle Huerta for the difference they make and their impact on student learning. The BRIDGE Program is for persons 18-22 with disabilities who have completed four years of high school, and may be working towards the Alternative Pathway Diploma. The goal of the BRIDGE Program is to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills they need in order to make a successful transition to adult life.  More information is here . School News Mountain View Elementary hosts a Winter Education Night featuring math, literacy and hot cocoa Mountain View Elementary Principal Stacy Campbell is pleased to share that the school hosted a Winter Education Night on Tuesday, December 16th in the MultiUse Room.  "Our school community came out to participate in literacy and math activities, receive free hot cocoa from our PFC, choose free books to take home with them, and have photos taken by one of our teachers," Campbell said. "It was a fun event. Students learned how to play math games that focused on math fluency and grade level essential standards. All families were able to take home all materials to play the games at home."  Happy Holidays!    Shore Acres Elementary hosts its 3rd Annual Pozolada A Mariachi band performs at the Shore Acres Elementary Pozolada (above left). Pozolada winners receive prizes (above right). Board President Debra Mason and her husband unveil his pozolada (below left), and families line up to taste the Pozolada (below center and right). Shore Acres Elementary was excited to host its 3rd Annual  Pozolada on Thursday,  The event started off with sharing the history of  pozole,  said Evelin Delgadillo Mojica, the school's Office Manager and a Shore Acres Alumna, who helped organize it. For some attendees, this was their first time trying pozole, which is a traditional Mexican soup made primarily from hominy corn, meat (usually pork or chicken), and a flavorful broth, Delgadillo Mojica explained. Its origins trace back to pre-Hispanic Mesoamerica, where Indigenous cultures such as the Mexica prepared it for ritual and ceremonial purposes, giving the dish deep historical meaning  There were 14 different pozole entries in a taste contest, all with different and unique flavors. The entries were from community members such as parents, relatives, and alumni. There was even an entry from Board President Debra Mason's husband Lee Mason. Nine judges made up of teachers, staff, and community members selected three winners: 1st Place - Cassandra Placenscia who is a community member and alumni; 2nd place - Eserpanza Martinez who is a parent; and 3rd Place - Camerina Perez who is also a parent.  The  pozolada also included a mariachi performance, which featured Shore Acres alumni Angelo Ledesma Gomez,  who is currently in his first year at UC Davis. There was also a visit from Santa Claus and a toy give away for all the kids in attendance.  This event was made possible by our noon supervisors, Estela Mojia and Liliana Hernandez, with the help and support from the Shore Acres families, Delgadillo Mojica said.  Valle Verde and Walnut Acres elementary student art displayed at Walnut Creek shopping center The Art Walk at the Orchards Shopping Center in Walnut Creek featured a close-to-two-month-long exhibit of student art from Valle Verde and Walnut Acres Elementary (above) that brings a lot of holiday cheer not only to our school but also the greater community, said Walnut Acres parent Amanda Regenstein, who helped coordinate the event.  It started five years ago with Valle Verde Elementary, then Walnut Acres Elementary joined the event last year and both participated again this year. Walnut Acres student artwork will be on display through Jan. 6 and featured a "grand event night" on Dec. 3. Details about the  Valle Verde display are here . "Thank you so much to art instructor Mrs. Paulin for helping our students create all of the amazing art. Thank you to all the parent volunteers who helped mount and hang art," Valle Verde said on Instagram.  At the event, students stopped into stored to collect free art goodies, grooved to tunes with DJ Brandon (from Enriquez Events, who played near the big Xmas tree), took home free balloon art from a professional twister, struck poses on the red carpet, and strolled the exhibit with work from students. Parents and caregivers took a day off from cooking -- with seven generous merchants giving back to our school. We had lunch and dinner plus dessert at The Orchards, Regenstein said. Families also multitasked by crossing some holiday gifts off of their shopping list with two additional merchant givebacks coming straight back to our school. Our art teacher, Kristin Kyono, and also our TK teachers put so much hard work into co-curating this event, Regenstein said. The Orchards will be generously donating $2,000 to Walnut Acres for our participation in this event, Regenstein said. We raised an additional $966.33 in givebacks from participating vendors at our grand event, she added. More i nformation about the Walnut Acres event is here . Thank you to The Orchards for hosting this event to benefit our schools! College Park High School reopens its Wellness Center, holds Open House During lunch on December 12th, College Park High School hosted a Wellness Center Open House to highlight the Wellness Center and the wellness resources available to students, said Marcela Ardema, Social Work Specialist/Wellness Administrator, who led the event, along with Social Work Interns Naomi Bareket and Rose Gluck. Students and staff generously volunteered their time, and many students stopped by to participate and learn more about the supports available on campus, Ardema said. Event volunteers included (l-r, above left) Morgan Gillette (Counselor), Mary Lucido (WISP, CCCOE), Marcela Ardema (SWS), Norma Lopez (Program Admin, Wellness Programs & Alliance), Dayana Rodríguez (Senior), João Freitas Lima (Junior), Tamara Prosise (Counselor), Anureet Sandhu (MHCS), Rose Gluck (SW Intern), and Naomi Bareket (SW Intern). More information about the CPHS Wellness Center is here . School Social Media Highlights Gregory Gardens Elem., Holbrook Language Academy, Walnut Acres Elem., Westwood CARES MDUSD Elementary students have been participating in fun and educational activities together. Recent Social Media Highlights include: Gregory Gardens Elementary student production of “Annie Kids”; Holbrook Language Academy Winter Holiday Spirit Week “Match your Teacher Day!"; Walnut Acres Elementary 2nd Annual 4th and 5th Grade “Makers Market”; and the Westwood Elementary CARES  program creates a Yayoi Kusama Art Exhibit featuring student work! Diablo View, Oak Grove, Sequoia, Foothill, and Valley View middle schools MDUSD middle school students have been building community together. Recent social media highlights include: The Diablo View MS  student Film Makers Film Festival; Oak Grove MS students visit the Marine Mammal Center as part of the Ocean Ambassadors program; Sequoia MS thanks its student Teacher's Assistants for helping the office run smoothly; Foothill MS choir students perform holiday songs during lunch on Friday; and Valley View MS Leadership students decorate festive ornaments! College Park, Mt. Diablo, Northgate and Ygnacio Valley high schools MDUSD students have been celebrating together. Recent Social Media Highlights include: College Park HS BSU  learns about Kwanzaa from Dr. Francies; Mt. Diablo HS Girls Basketball Team wins Red, White and Blue Classic tournament; Northgate HS Girls Wrestling team wins “Roger Briones Tournament,” finishing 1st out of 69 teams; and Ygnacio Valley HS students celebrate Yalda!  Staff News Hidden Valley Elementary Parent Liaison Cynthia Duarte Bishop helps support 23 families Hidden Valley Elementary's amazing parent liaison, Cynthia Duarte Bishop, has supported 23 families in need at our site with food, presents, and warm coats, said School Counselor Megan Davis.  She collaborated with the PFC, local community organizations, and the SOAR office. "The outpouring of support from Hidden Valley families and staff who purchased gifts and donated food was inspiring," Davis said. "Thanks to Cynthia for making sure our families are supported!" Staff Social Media Highlights Family Engagement, Mt. Diablo HS, Ygnacio Valley HS, and Robert Shearer Preschool MDUSD staff members have been preparing for the holidays. Recent Social Media Highlights include: MDUSD Family Engagement Coordinator Dr. Lamont Francies attends Black Educators conference and meets former 49ers quarterback; Mt. Diablo HS counseling team wishes students good luck on finals; Ygnacio Valley HS staff  uses teen slang in reel to send warm wishes to students for a safe and happy holiday season; and Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark  wishes Robert Shearer Preschool students and staff Happy Holidays and helps students learn about the size concepts Big and Little! Important Dates Dec. 22-Jan. 2 : Winter Recess (Schools closed; District Offices open to the public Dec. 22-23 and Dec. 29-30; District Offices closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1; limited staff available by phone and email in District offices Dec. 24, 26, 31 and Jan. 2) Jan. 13 : Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC)  meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Jan. 14 : District Governing Board  meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Jan. 19 :  Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday (Schools and District Offices closed) Jan. 20 : District Parent Advisory Committee (PAC)  meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord Jan. 21: District Governing Board  meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Jan. 27 : District Budget Advisory Committee (BAC)  meeting at 6 p.m. at the District Office The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Dec 20 2025

Friday Letter - December 12, 2025

DECEMBER 12, 2025 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 8 NO. 18 Dear MDUSD Community, I want to send out a huge high five to our incredible students, families, and staff who continue to make Mt. Diablo Unified School District a special place to learn. Our students have shown remarkable resilience and kindness throughout the year. These young people give me great hope for the future of our community. To our parents and caregivers, thank you for your continued support and partnership. Your role in our students’ success is invaluable, and we are grateful for the trust you place in our schools. Your efforts to support learning are making a lasting difference. With winter break just around the corner, we are all looking forward to time to rest and connect with family and friends. Although we are excited for the holiday season, we will definitely miss our students during the time away and are already looking forward to their return in January. In this week’s Friday Letter, we’re excited to take a closer look at a wonderful  field trip taken by students from El Monte, Meadow Homes, and Shore Acres elementary schools. These students had the opportunity to experience literature come alive on stage at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek during a performance of A Christmas Carol by Center Repertory Company. This event was made possible by the generosity of the Diablo Regional Arts Association’s Women’s Artistic Alliance, and both students and teachers deeply appreciated the experience. We’ll also share news from this week’s  Board of Education meeting, where the Board elected a new President and Vice President! The District also recognized the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) , a critical law that continues to shape inclusive educational practices across our schools. We have linked my recent Superintendent’s Message on the 2025 California School Dashboard,  which provides important information related to our District’s progress and areas of focus moving forward. You’ll also find a highlight from the  Community Advisory Committee’s joyful holiday party , which brought together students, families and staff to celebrate the season. Finally, we are proud to share  recognition of our outstanding student-athletes. This week’s letter includes a summary of  MDUSD’s Fall Sports Diablo Athletic League (DAL) All-League selections, highlighting athletes from all five of our comprehensive high schools. We are celebrating four MVPs and numerous First Team, Second Team, and Honorable Mention recognitions across nine boys’ and girls’ sports in three DAL divisions. Other highlights include:  Board recognizes College Park HS graduate Mathys Joseph for his recent ACSA Every Student Succeeding Award School and Staff Social Media highlights including Winter Concerts and more! Thank you for your continued support of our schools and your partnership in the success of every child.  Dr. Adam Clark Spotlight MDUSD students from 3 elementary schools see "A Christmas Carol" at the Lesher Center The cast of "A Christmas Carol" receives applause at the end of the show (above left). Shore Acres, El Monte and Meadow Homes elementary students in the theater (above right). Meadow Homes Elementary 5th graders before the show (below left). Shore Acres Elementary teachers and students in lobby (below right).  By Theresa Harrington Brandt MDUSD Public Information Officer On Thursday, students from El Monte, Meadow Homes and Shore Acres elementary schools had the opportunity to see "A Christmas Carol" at the Lesher Theater in Walnut Creek, sponsored by the Diablo Regional Arts Association's Women's Artistic Alliance. Students and teachers said they appreciated the chance to see a dramatic production, which prompted claps, cheers, laughter, and oohs and aahs throughout the show. "I'm happy because I've never been here and it's something new for me," said Meadow Homes 5th-grader Madelin Marroquin as she lined up with her classmates outside the theater before the show. Teacher Elora Hinckley pointed out the "Content Advisory," which warned that the performance included ghosts and spirits, loud noise, fog effects, strobe lighting effects, and "bursts of holiday cheer."' "This is my favorite thing that we do, because a lot of the students have never seen live theater before, so it's very special," said Women's Arts Alliance member Carole Wynstra, who sat in the balcony near the Meadow Homes and El Monte elementary students.  During intermission, after the Ghost of Christmas Past had visited Ebenezer Scrooge, three Meadow Homes students gave the show a positive review. "I think it's pretty cool," said Alex Jacobo. Emiliano Moreno added: "Some parts are scary." But Daniel Ortiz was undaunted. "It's a good show," he said. "I like the ghost. It's not too scary." By the end of the show, Emilio said he liked it and Alex raved, "I loved it. It was amazing!"   As Shore Acres students and teachers gathered in the lobby after the show, teacher Elvira Martinez said her students acted out the play the previous day in class, so it was fun for them to see it on the stage. Student Melanie Castañeda said enthusiastically, "I loved it! My favorite characters were Scrooge and Tiny Tim." The Center Rep cast and Lesher Center staff and volunteers enjoy introducing students to first-time theater experiences, said Lesher Center General Manager Carolyn Jackson. "The buzz, the excitement - it brings us joy," she said. Since 2008, the Diablo Regional Arts Association's "Arts Access" school time performances have provided more than 60,000 East Bay students, teachers, and chaperones with the opportunity to experience high-quality live performances and visual arts exhibitions at the Lesher Center for the Arts, with a focus on students from Title 1 schools, primarily from the Mt. Diablo School District, said Diablo Regional Arts Association Executive Director Peggy White. "We also provide study guides for teachers that meet the MDUSD Curriculum standards."   MDUSD thanks the Association, Lesher Center and Center Rep for providing these opportunities for our students and we look forward to more exciting and educational field trips in the future! District News Board Briefs: Board elects new President and Vice President during Board Organization meeting The MDUSD Board met Dec. 10 and elected Debra Mason as President and Keisha Nzewi as Vice President.  In addition, the Board recognized College Park HS graduate Mathys Joseph for his selection as the Association of CA School Administrators Region 6 Every Student Succeeding Award winner (far left), and received a report on the 50th anniversary of IDEA ( the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) (left), which was enacted on Nov. 29, 1975, changing the lives of people with disabilities and the communities in which they live. Also at its Dec. 10 meeting, the Board received a 2025 CA Accountability Dashboard report (See Superintendent's Message below), and a Food and Nutrition Services Program update and Wellness Policy Triennial Assessment report . In addition, the Board approved Sunshine Proposals  for the 2026-29 successor contract between MDUSD and Teamsters, and the First Interim Budget Report for 2025-26, a Title I Schoolwide Program for Concord HS, and School Plans for Student Achievement (SPSAs) for Olympic HS and Riverview MS, among other items. The agenda is here . Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark's Weekly Organizational Update to the Board, which includes detailed District operations reports from Department leaders, is here . An archive of past reports is here . Superintendent Message: MDUSD CA Dashboard Data / Presentation MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark sent a message titled, "MDUSD CA Dashboard Data/Presentation" to the District Community on Dec. 12, 2025. Click here to read the message . Click here to see the presentation .  More than 120 families attend Special Education Community Advisory Committee Holiday Event On Tuesday December 9th, the MDUSD Special Education Community Advisory Committee hosted a holiday event, which over 120 families attended. The night included games, crafts, food and fun for all in attendance. Please see the Social Media Highlights below to view photos from the event. Enrollment Services: Families will be notified of Intradistrict Transfer Lottery results by Dec. 19th The Intradistrict Transfer Lottery was conducted on Thursday, December 11, 2025, and was open to the public through an online video session. The session link was shared in advance with all applicants and posted on the district website. The lottery determined the order in which students will be considered for transfers for the 2026–27 school year. District staff has established projected enrollment for each site, which will be used to determine the number of transfers that can be awarded in accordance with previously adopted Board priority criteria. All applicants were assigned a priority number, and families will be notified of their individual lottery results by Friday, December 19, 2025.  SOAR (Support Office for Access and Resources) is distributing free jackets and sweatshirts MDUSD's SOAR (Support Office for Access and Resources) program has received donations of more than 300 new and gently used jackets and about 1,000 sweatshirts that it is distributing free to any MDUSD student or parent/guardian in need of winterwear. The jackets and sweatshirts are available in all sizes and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at the SOAR Office at 1026 Mohr Lane in Concord, while supplies last. For more information, call 925-685-1011 ext. 62042 or email soar@mdusd.org MDUSD's SOAR (Support Office for Access and Resources) is collecting donations through Jan. 30 SOAR's annual donation drive helps support our students who are unhoused, foster youth, newcomers and refugees, LGBTQIA+, justice involved youth, human trafficking survivors or other extreme circumstances. Funds raised may be used to provide families with resources, clothing and other essentials. Monetary donations may be made via check, cash or Venmo (@MDUSDSOAR). Send checks to SOAR at Willow Creek Center, 1026 Mohr Lane, Concord, CA 94518. Donations are being accepted through Jan. 30, 2026. 4th Annual MDUSD Kwanzaa celebration is Dec. 18th in Bay Point The Mt. Diablo Unified School District African American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) will host the Fourth Annual Districtwide Kwanzaa Celebration at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18 at Rio Vista Elementary, 611 Pacifica Ave. in Bay Point. "This year’s celebration will honor the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa  and will include a libation ceremony to pay tribute to our ancestors," said Family Engagement Coordinator Dr. Lamont A. Francies. "We look forward to an evening filled with community, culture, food, give-aways, and family fun." MDUSD students, families, and community partners are invited.  "Thank you for your continued support," Dr. Francies said. "We look forward to celebrating with you." Diamante Scholars at DVC accepting applications from HS seniors through January 11th! The  Diamante Scholars Program at Diablo Valley College (DVC) is designed to help motivated high school seniors with overlooked, unseen potential find their career path and build the professional skills for success after they graduate and enter DVC.  As a Diamante Scholar, students join a cohort of high school seniors who receive opportunities for early college credits, internships, career exploration, industry visits and career skills workshops that set them up for a powerful first year and future career. They’ll make friends, build confidence, and get connected to the people and resources that will help them thrive at DVC.  This program offers is one of the best ways for incoming freshmen to start college with confidence, support, and a community that truly cares about their success. High school seniors looking for a program that will guide them, support them, and cheer them on as they work toward their goals are encouraged to explore Diamante Scholars. The application deadline has been extended to January 11th. High school seniors can apply now and start their college journeys in the spring with a team that believes in their success. Please  fill out the interest form or view the attached brochure.  Diamante Scholars will have a chance to earn early college credit by taking a CAREER 101 course at Mt. Diablo HS in the spring, then participating in a summer internship program. MDUSD is currently recruiting for Spring 2026 semester dual enrollment classes MDUSD is currently recruiting for Spring 2026 semester dual enrollment classes, which allow high school students to take college-level courses while still in high school, earning both high school and college credit for those courses. These courses are offered through partnerships between MDUSD and Diablo Valley College (DVC). The benefits of dual enrollment are numerous: students can get a head start on their college education and potentially save time/money by completing college credits early. MDUSD’s dual enrollment program also helps students meet a certificate requirement or a degree requirement. Dual enrollment provides exposure to the rigor of college coursework and helps students transition more smoothly to higher education. Finally, students earning a C or higher in a CSU/UC transferable dual enrollment class will earn a GPA boost for that class – similar to an AP or honors class. Participating in this program demonstrates academic ambition, preparedness, and long term goal setting. Overall this program offers an opportunity for students to challenge themselves, reduce future college costs, and accelerate their educational journey.  MDUSD has a variety of dual enrollment classes for Spring semester. While they are offered on different campuses, they are open to students across the district – please note that students are responsible for getting themselves to the classes as MDUSD does not provide transportation. We are especially looking for students to register students for our College & Career, Diamante Scholars (see above item), Hospitality, and Engineering Technology courses being offered at Concord, Mt Diablo, and Ygnacio Valley high schools.  Look at our course schedule below for days, times, and course details: ' High Schools and Course Types  Concord High School : College & Career Mt. Diablo High School : Diamante Scholars, Engineering, Hospitality, Public Health, and Sociology. Ygnacio Valley High School : College & Career, Early Childhood Education, Engineering Technology, and Sociology Northgate High School : Sports Medicine If students are interested in taking the course please fill out our  Spring 2026 Dual Enrollment form  so we can support them through the dual enrollment process.  For more information, please contact Jorge Salinas-Tognetti ( salinastognettij@mdusd.org ) and Amanda Witczak ( witczaka@mdusd.org ) or visit the MDUSD Early College Credit website .  Student News MDUSD’s Fall Sports Diablo Athletic League (DAL) All-League selections Congratulations to the dozens of MDUSD high school athletes who were named to the Diablo Athletic League (DAL) Fall Sports All League Teams, including four MVPs: Girls Golf MVP Armani Stark  (Northgate HS); Foothill Div. Football Offense MVP Michael Vasquez (Mt. Diablo HS); Mountain Div. Boys Water Polo Goalie MVP JD Hopkins (Concord HS); Valley Div. Girls Water Polo MVP Makena Meyers (College Park HS); Valley Div. Click on the images above to see selections for Girls and Boys Cross Country ; Girls Golf, Girls Tennis and Girls Volleyball ; Boys and Girls Water Polo; and Football and Flag Football. You can see the complete lists of DAL All League Selections on the DAL website here . School Social Media Highlights Gregory Gardens and Valle Verde elementary schools, Holbrook Language Academy and CAC  MDUSD elementary students have been enjoying fun and educational activities. Recent Social Media Highlights include: Gregory Gardens Elementary students enjoy their stints as “principals for a day”; Valle Verde Elementary music teacher and student perform “Jingle Bells” in a violin duet for the office staff; Holbrook Language Academy 4th-graders use “lines of communication” to anchor learning about poem features; and families enjoy the Holiday Party hosted by MDUSD's Community Advisory Committee ! Diablo View, Oak Grove, Sequoia and Valley View middle schools MDUSD middle school student music students have been performing in Winter Concerts! Recent Social Media highlights include: Diablo View MS Winter Concert  features wonderful student musicians; Bravo to student Winter Concert performers at Oak Grove MS , led by music and vocal teachers Ms. Zaragoza and Mr. Hutchinson; All  three Sequoia MS bands amaze the audience with incredible performances during their winter concert; and Valley View MS Orchestra students shine on stage under the incredible leadership of Ms. Nesmith!  College Park, Concord, Mt. Diablo and Northgate high schools MDUSD high school students have been participating in sports and performing together. Recent Social Media Highlights include: College Parl HS girls wrestling  wins Albany Invitational, coming in first place out of 60 teams; Concord HS Boys Soccer teams up with De La Salle HS for a soccer match and toy drive “competing for a great cause”; Mt. Diablo HS Chamber Music Groups perform Christmas Carols, spreading holiday cheer at the Ambrose Community Center; and Northgate HS “Bella Voce” choir students perform at their Winter Concert! Staff Social Media Highlights Mt. Diablo High School, Sequoia Middle School, Walnut Acres Elementary & Special Education Mt. Diablo staff members have been celebrating together. Recent Social Media Highlights include: Mt. Diablo HS staff and students “channeling their flannel” during #holidayspiritweek; Sequoia MS teacher Mrs. Horne  receives a CalRTA grant; Walnut Acres Elementary  thanks custodian trainer Michael and welcomes new custodian Benny; and MDUSD Special Education staff members enjoy a visit with Santa during the Annual Holiday Party hosted by the Community Advisory Committee (CAC)! Important Dates Dec. 16 : District Budget Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting at 6 p.m. at the District Office; District Parent Advisory Committee (PAC)  meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord Dec. 18 : 4th Annual Districtwide Kwanzaa Celebration at 6 p.m. at Rio Vista Elementary in Bay Point (hosted by the African American Parent Advisory Council) (See District News above) Dec. 22-Jan. 2 :  Winter Recess (Schools closed; District Offices open to the public Dec. 22-23 and Dec. 29-30; District Offices closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1; limited staff available by phone and email in District offices Dec. 24, 26, 31 and Jan. 2) Jan. 13: Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC)  meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Jan. 14 : District Governing Board  meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Jan. 19 :  Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday (Schools and District Offices closed) Jan. 20 : District Parent Advisory Committee (PAC)  meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord T h e Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Dec 13 2025

Friday Letter - December 5, 2025

DECEMBER 5, 2025 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 8 NO. 17 Dear MDUSD Community, I can not believe we are in December! Thank you for taking time to read this week’s Friday Letter. The Friday Letter is such a weekly treat, where we celebrate the amazing accomplishments of our students, schools and staff.  I am always proud to see how MDUSD continues to put students at our center. This week, we are proud to spotlight three outstanding team members who were recognized at the California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO) regional luncheon.  Congratulations to Payroll Analyst Sherry Geisler, who received the CASBO Excellence in Business Services Award, and to School Bus Driver Laura Garibay Gonzalez and Senior Account Clerk Krista Hobbs , who were also nominated for their hard work and dedication. We are lucky to have such committed professionals supporting our students every day. In student news, we celebrate two winners of the Concord Mayor's Art Contest. Congratulations to  Monte Gardens Elementary student Isabella Engelbert and El Dorado Middle School student Jaqueline Torres Eufracio  for their neat and creative work. We are also celebrating the  Northgate High School Girls and Boys Cross Country Teams, who both set new school records at the State CIF meet.   Our schools continue to show what it means to care for one another.  Ygnacio Valley High School  counselors held their first thrift store event of the year, helping students access clothing and other items. They also partnered with the Wellness Center to provide food for families in need. The school also hosted a Parent Night with Contra Costa Health to share important information about Medi-Cal eligibility and how to apply before the December 31 deadline. In alumni news, we are excited to highlight College Park High School alum Natalie Gonzalez, who performed as a vocalist in the movie Wicked . All of MDUSD honors  retired Ygnacio Valley teacher Kelly Perkins, who received Diablo Magazine’s "Threads of Hope" award for founding Carson’s Wings of Hope. Her work helps families struggling with addiction, in honor of her son. Finally, I want to remind everyone about two important events next week: our  Adult Education Open House and Art & Crafts Sale on Saturday and the Board of Education Reorganization Meeting on Wednesday evening . I hope you can join us or tune in. Other news includes: Walnut Acres Elementary teacher Heather Garcia-Roy battling cancer School and Staff Social Media Highlights Thank you again for your ongoing support of our students and schools. It is your partnership that keeps Mt. D strong. Thank you, Dr. Clark Spotlight MDUSD employees recognized in regional Business Services Excellence Awards event MDUSD School Bus Driver Laura Garibay Gonzalez (left), Payroll Analyst Sherry Geisler (center) and Senior Account Clerk Krista Hobbs (right) were all nominated for California School Business Officials (CASBO) Central Bay Section Excellence in Business Services awards. Geisler was named the regional winner on Friday. MDUSD is proud that three of our Business Services employees were recently nominated for regional “Excellence in Business Services” awards recognizing them as Outstanding School Employees by the California School Business Officials (CASBO) Central Bay Section. The three nominees were:  School Bus Driver Laura Garibay Gonzalez, Payroll Analyst Sherry Geisler, and Senior Account Clerk Krista Hobbs. All three were recognized today (Friday) at the organization's annual luncheon in Dublin, where Sherry was named the regional winner. Sherry has been working in her current position for a little over a year and has already demonstrated a strong ability to proactively find solutions to issues and maintain patience and responsiveness when supporting staff at all levels, said Gustavo Aguilera, Executive Director of Fiscal Services, "She takes the time to clearly explain procedures, resolve concerns, and follow up promptly. Her ethical conduct, strong communication skills, and collaborative spirit make her a trusted resource across departments, and her dedication to continuous improvement strengthens both the efficiency and reliability of the Payroll Department." Laura came to MDUSD during the pandemic to help students, said Transportation Director Cris Lepe. "From her first day, she demonstrated a level of dedication that has set her apart. Whether she is assigned to a regular route, asked to cover an uncovered run, or called upon to 'rescue' a student who needs transportation, Laura always responds with readiness, professionalism, and heart." Krista has been doing outstanding work in her current position for three years, handling numerous responsibilities, said Accounting Supervisor Derrick Miranda. She has strong technical and communication skills, and has developed strategic collection methods while maintaining customer relationships. She is also an expert at interpreting data to make informed decisions, tracking and proactively mitigating risks like bad debt. She is very responsible, dependable and is an asset to our District, Miranda concluded. Congratulations to all! District News Mt. Diablo Adult Education Annual Open House Art & Crafts Sale is Dec. 6th in Pleasant Hill Mt. Diablo Adult Education invites community members to its Annual Open House and Art & Crafts Sale from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6th at Mt. Diablo Adult Education, One Santa Barbara Road in Pleasant Hill. Follow the signs to the back of the campus to find unique handmade gifts for family and friends. Over 1,000 original works of art and crafts by current students and instructors will be on sale, including: wooden toys and gifts; ceramics; unique jewelry; handmade greeting cards; original paintings; sewn, quilted and hand knit items; woodcarvings, wood turned objects; and more.   Come enjoy folk guitar minstrels, creative writing readings, a dance demo, and hot cider! Visit woodworking and woodturning shops and the quilt gallery and sale. The local La Guerita Food Truck will be available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to provide delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine. Consider a Gift Certificate for a Lifelong Education class! We offer hundreds of year-round day and evening classes to choose from taught by expert instructors. The December Adult Education Lifelong Learning newsletter is here SOAR (Support Office for Access and Resources) is distributing free jackets and sweatshirts MDUSD's SOAR (Support Office for Access and Resources) program has received donations of more than 300 new and gently used jackets and sweatshirts that it is distributing free to any MDUSD student or parent/guardian in need of winterwear. The jackets and sweatshirts are available in all sizes and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at the SOAR Office at 1026 Mohr Lane in Concord, while supplies last. For more information, call 925-685-1011 ext. 62042 or email soar@mdusd.org MDUSD's SOAR (Support Office for Access and Resources) is collecting donations through Jan. 30 SOAR's annual donation drive  helps support our students who are unhoused, foster youth, newcomers and refugees, LGBTQIA+, justice involved youth, human trafficking survivors or other extreme circumstances. Funds raised may be used to provide families with resources, clothing and other essentials. Monetary donations may be made via check, cash or Venmo (@MDUSDSOAR). Send checks to SOAR at Willow Creek Center, 1026 Mohr Lane, Concord, CA 94518. Donations are being accepted through Jan. 30, 2026. Video highlights recent MDUSD Building Trades Parents Night                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       MDUSD is pleased to share the above video recapping our recent Building Trades Night at Concord HS presented in partnership with the Torlakson Whole Child Institute and the State Building and Trades Council of California. Click here for more information about the event . Board Briefs: Annual Board Reorganization meeting is Wednesday, December 10 The MDUSD Board will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10 in the District Office Boardroom. This will be the annual Board Reorganization meeting, where Board members will elect a new President and Vice President. In addition, the Board expects to recognize College Park HS graduate Mathys Joseph for his selection as the Association of CA School Administrators Region 6 Every Student Succeeding Award winner and to receive reports on the 50th anniversary of IDEA (the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), the 2025 CA Accountability Dashboard, and a Food and Nutrition Services Program update and Wellness Policy Triennial Assessment. The Board also expects to review and potentially approve Sunshine Proposals for the 2026-29 successor contract between MDUSD and Teamsters, and the First Interim Budget Report for 2025-26, a Title I Schoolwide Program for Concord HS, and School Plans for Student Achievement (SPSAs) for Olympic HS and Riverview MS, among other items. The agenda is here . Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark's Weekly Organizational Update to the Board, which includes detailed District operations reports from Department leaders, is here . An archive of past reports is here .  4th Annual MDUSD Kwanzaa celebration is Dec. 18th in Bay Point The Mt. Diablo Unified School District African American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) will host the Fourth Annual Districtwide Kwanzaa Celebration at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18 at Rio Vista Elementary, 611 Pacifica Ave. in Bay Point. "This year’s celebration will honor the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa  and will include a libation ceremony to pay tribute to our ancestors," said Family Engagement Coordinator Dr. Lamont A. Francies. "We look forward to an evening filled with community, culture, food, give-aways, and family fun." MDUSD students, families, and community partners are invited.  "Thank you for your continued support," Dr. Francies said. "We look forward to celebrating with you." Student News Monte Gardens Elementary and El Dorado MS students win Concord Mayor's Art Contest Concord City Councilman Pablo Benavente (l-r) stands with Mayor Carlyn Obringer, Councilman Dominic Aliano, Monte Gardens Elementary student Isabella Engelbert, Anova Center for Education student Fineas Mitchell-Schmidt, El Dorado MS student Jaqueline Torres Eufracio, and Councilwomen Laura Nakamura and Laura Hoffmeister to recognize the Mayor's Art Contest winners (above). Isabella's art (below left) and Jacqueline's art (below right) is on display at City Hall through Jan. 9th. MDUSD is proud to announce that Monte Gardens student Isabella Engelbert and El Dorado MS student Jaqueline Torres Eufracio were  recognized on Dec. 2 by Concord Mayor Carlyn Obringer and the Concord City Council as winners of the 2025 Mayor's Art Contest, along with an Anova Center for Education student. Isabella and Jaqueline's art will be on display in City Hall through Jan. 9, 2026. Isabella won the Elementary Grade Level Award and Jaqueline won the Middle School Grade Level Award. "It was a wonderful night of community recognition, made even more special by the attendance of El Dorado art teacher, Mr. Cerezo, who was there to celebrate Jaqueline and her family," said El Dorado MS Principal Jeanne Johnson. "Congratulations to our talented young artists for sharing their creativity with the City of Concord and representing MDUSD with excellence!" Isabella's teacher Jennifer Evans said Monte Gardens Principal Mr. Bennett also attended the recognition to celebrate Isabella's award. "Isabella is an exceptionally talented young artist," Evans said. "She has a natural gift that can't be taught!!" Isabella used acrylic paint on canvas to create her artwork, said her mother, Elisa Engelbert.   Johnson added that Jaqueline's artwork depicts BART winding through downtown Concord. "It's really cool," she said.  Northgate HS Boys and Girls Cross Country Teams set new school records at the State CIF meet Congratulations to the Northgate HS Boys Cross Country Team (left), only the fifth team in school history to qualify for the State Meet, and collectively ran the fastest Northgate HS Boys team time ever, improving the school's 2021 time by almost 1 minute! And congratulations to the Northgate HS Girls Cross Country team (right), which etched their names in history with the highest team finish at the State Meet, battling to 6th place in their Division with the fastest team time in school history, improving the time from last year by over 5 minutes!!! "Northgate HS Principal Kelly Cooper is proud to share that the Broncos Boys and  Girls Cross Country teams made some great strides and school history at the State Championship meet in Fresno.  Cross Country Coach Ruth Seabrook said this was only the fifth time the school's Boys Team has qualified for State since the meet began back in 1987 "They ran the fastest team time in Northgate history," she said, adding that Senior Francis Chmielewski led the boys, whose collective time was 83:28, which averages 16:42 for the 5k race distance run at Woodward Park. Francis' average mile pace was 5:14.6,   according the CI F . "This is only the second time in school history we have qualified both teams simultaneously and the girls continued to cement their performance this season as the strongest we have ever seen," Seabrook continued. They placed 6th in their Division in State, improving on the 1994 team led by Alison Lambert that was 7th. This year's team ran a collective team time of 93:25, almost 5 minutes faster than the one they set the prior year. The team was led by 17th place finisher Olivia Joseph, whose mile pace averaged 5:48.4. School News Ygnacio Valley HS counselors thrift store event and food distribution helps families in need  On November 21st, Ygnacio Valley HS counselors proudly kicked off the school year’s first Thrift Store event, providing students with access to clothing and other useful items, said Jessica Pozos, MDUSD's Assistant Director of Mental Health Programs. "Partnering with this occasion, the Wellness Center launched its first-ever food giveaway, providing pantry staples to families in need," Pozos added. "These successful events demonstrate the school’s commitment to uplifting and caring for its community, and they look forward to hosting more opportunities that bring support and connection to their campus."   Y gnacio Valley HS Parent Night with Contra Costa Health shares Medi-Cal and other information Ygnacio Valley HS recently held a parent workshop in partnership with Contra Costa Health and One Day At A Time that provided important information about Medi-Cal services and several other helpful programs, said Community School Coordinator Marcela Solsa. The county team emphasized that anyone who does not apply for Medi-Cal before the end of December may not be able to apply later. The information shared by the county team was extremely valuable, Sosa said, adding that parents were very grateful and wanted elementary and middle school parents to have access to the same resources. The school plans to host a workshop about computers and apps at 6 p.m. Jan. 29. "I would like to invite the whole community to attend," Sosa said.   Staff News Walnut Acres Elementary teacher Heather Garcia-Roy battling cancer Walnut Acres Elementary has shared on Instagram that "our beloved Mrs. Garcia-Roy has been diagnosed with cancer. Her family has created a GoFundMe page to help with some of the unexpected costs. If you know Mrs. Garcia-Roy—especially if your child was lucky enough to to be in her TK class—you know how big her heart is, and how much she means to the Walnut Acres community." Her husband Francisco Garcia is asking for the community's help for his wife, "a dedicated teacher for over 25 years," who "has touched the lives of countless students and families in our community." Alumni News College Park HS alum Natalie Gonzalez performed as a vocalist in the movie  Wicked College Park HS Choirs are pleased to share that you can look for CPHS choir alum Natalie Gonzalez in the vocal credits when you see the  Wicked movie!  "She graduated from our program in 2016, went on to study voice at Cal State Long Beach, and is now one of the most sought after singers in Hollywood! She won her first Grammy last year, and we're so proud of her," the Choirs posted on  Facebook . Natalie was highlighted in February 9, 2024 Friday Letter Alumni News when she won her Grammy. "Natalie Gonzalez - who was in my choir program, College Park HS class of 2016 - sings with the  Tonality a cappella choir, which won the Grammy for Best New Age, Ambient or Chant album," said College Park HS Choir Director Bruce Rockwell.  You can read more about Natalie, who is now known as Natalie Gonzalez Dubois, here . Her website also includes clips of her singing! Community News Retired Ygnacio Valley HS teacher Kelly Perkins receives "Threads of Hope" award MDUSD congratulates retired Ygnacio Valley HS special education teacher Kelly Perkins, who is a  Diablo Magazine "Threads of Hope" award recipient for her nonprofit Carson's Wings of Hope, which she formed after her 21-year-old son died of a drug overdose in 2022.  Perkins spoke about her son's tragic death during MDUSD Fentanyl Awareness events. She recently stepped back from teaching and is developing a new wellness ambassador program that involves recruiting student leaders to provide peer support on Contra Costa County middle and high school campuses. She is working on grant funding and hopes to debut a pilot program at a couple of MDUSD schools in early 2026. School Social Media Highlights Ayers, Bancroft, Bel Air and Meadow Homes elementary schools MDUSD elementary students have been enjoying a variety of fun and educational activities. Recent Social Media Highlights include: Ayers Elementary is the newest Walk’n Roll Contra Costa school, joining several other MDUSD schools that participate in the program; Bancroft Elementary Walkathon reel  highlights the fun event; Bel Air Elementary students learn about how worms improve soil and support a healthy garden; Meadow Homes Elementary students drumming  with Mr. Manolo!  Diablo View, Pleasant Hill, Sequoia and Valley View middle schools MDUSD middle school students have been have been participating in activities together. Recent Social Media Highlights include: Diablo View MS students learn strategies for self-care and managing stress during the school's Inaugural Wellness Day; Pleasant Hill MS art students create a candy and dessert display; Sequoia MS students hear from College Park HS reps about their upcoming transition to high school; Valley View MS students enjoy their Scholastic Book Fair. College Now, Concord HS, Ygnacio Valley HS, and Northgate HS and College Park HS  MDUSD high school students have been building community with each other. Recent Social Media Highlights include: College Now seniors  create a “Celebration Tree,” listing all their accomplishments as they prepare for their futures after high school; Concord HS reel  highlights Boys and Girls Weekend of Wrestling; Ygnacio Valley HS Project 212 Robotics Team completes Week 3 of its “Mock Build Season;" Northgate HS Girls Wrestling hosts College Park HS Girls Wrestling in friendly scrimmage “making each other better”! Staff Social Media Highlights Superintendent and Student Board Member, Mt. Diablo HS, Northgate HS, Delta View Elementary MDUSD staff members have been spending time together on and off campuses. Recent Social Media Highlights include: Superintendent Dr. Clark and Student Board Member Alan Barrera Orellana attend the California School Boars Association (CSBA) Conference in Sacramento; Mt. Diablo HS announces winter sports head coaches; Northgate HS welcomes new Wrestling Assistant Coach Gage Mettler , who is an NHS alum wrestler; Delta View Elementary staff enjoys “Flannel Day” during Spirit Week! Important Dates Dec. 6:  Mt. Diablo Adult Education Annual Open House Art & Crafts Sale from 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Pleasant Hill Education Center, 1 Santa Barbara Road in Pleasant Hill (See District News above) Dec. 9: Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC)  Holiday Party at 6 p.m. Monte Gardens Elementary (RSVP required) Dec. 10: District Governing Board  meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Dec. 16: District Budget Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting at 6 p.m. at the District Office; District Parent Advisory Committee (PAC)  meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord Dec. 18 : 4th Annual Districtwide Kwanzaa Celebration at 6 p.m. at Rio Vista Elementary in Bay Point (hosted by the African American Parent Advisory Council) (See District News above) Dec. 22-Jan. 2:  Winter Recess (Schools closed; District Offices open to the public Dec. 22-23 and Dec. 29-30; District Offices closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1; limited staff available by phone and email in District offices Dec. 24, 26, 31 and Jan. 2) Jan. 13 : Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC)  meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom. The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Dec 06 2025

Friday Letter - November 21, 2025

NOVEMBER 21, 2025 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 8 NO. 16 Dear Mt. Diablo Community, We are so excited to head into Thanksgiving week. I want to wish each of you a happy and safe break. I hope you’re able to enjoy time with family and friends, while eating good food! Also, to anyone who has challenges or heavy feelings during this time, please know we’re thinking of you and holding you close in our hearts. This week’s Friday Letter is packed with the kind of student brilliance that makes Mt. D. shine. We’re spotlighting the  visit from Concord Mayor Carlyn Obringer to the 3rd-grade classes at Highlands Elementary,  where students finished their local government unit.  After researching issues affecting Concord and  holding their own classroom city council elections, our students came with good questions and ideas for the Mayor.  We’re also highlighting the  Northgate HS Mock Congress , a two-day tradition that turns the entire Social Studies Department into a live model of how laws are crafted, debated, and passed. It’s an incredible example of how our students can take a concept and turn it into a real life experience where the classroom comes alive. I enjoyed watching the professionalism of our students! Student News this week features some amazing accomplishments, including  Mt. Diablo HS Patient Care Pathway students Vincent Tran and Mahsa Safi, who were awarded the prestigious John Muir Health “I Belong” Scholarship. They and other MDHS students also led a workshop for educators at the CAL HOSA Fall Leadership Conference . This was such an impressive moment for our student leaders. We’re also celebrating the  Northgate HS art students , who placed fourth in the nation in the Crosley record player design contest. I loved what these students did with those record players. FYI…parents, you may have to give your student a quick history lesson on the meaning of record player.  At  Ygnacio Valley HS, the Community Cultural Club continues to bring students who speak Dari and Farsi together, building strong community connections between students, families, and staff. It’s a beautiful example of culture, belonging, and student voice in action. In School News, we’ll feature the  Bridge Program Friendsgiving .  And finally, we’ve got lots of fun stuff happening in our school and staff social media highlights, including turkey trots, 67th-day-of-school celebrations, and even a spirited staff-vs-students soccer match at Oak Grove MS. Wishing you a warm Thanksgiving week. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back after the break! Thank you, Dr. Adam Clark Spotlights Concord Mayor visits Highlands Elementary 3rd graders to discuss local government after students hold their own mock Concord City Council elections Highlands Elementary 3rd graders (l-r) Sebastian Baculpo, Titan Vogl, Kemryn Candejas, Himala Johnson and Parsa Kaviana celebrate their mock election as Concord City Council members representing Districts 2, 3, 1, 5 and 4 respectively (above left). Concord Mayor Carlyn Obringer speaks to 3rd graders (above center and right).  Third graders Almond Daluyaya (left), Sebastian Baculpo (center) and Shayla Prasad (right) hold campaign posters for their mock Concord City Council campaigns. Third-graders at Highlands Elementary learned about local government by researching the Concord City Council and issues of importance in their city, holding a mock City Council election that included campaigns focused on what they would do to address those issues, then following up with questions for Concord Mayor Carlyn Obringer when she visited them on Nov. 17th. "We are currently studying local government as a part of our 3rd grade social studies curriculum," said teacher Amy Bilson, adding that Mayor Obringer agreed to visit the school "to provide a hands-on, experiential learning experience for our students." Mayor Obringer represents  District 2 in the city, which includes the downtown area where Todos Santos Plaza is located. Each year, one of the city's five council members rotates into the role of Mayor, but Obringer's council term will last until 2028. "Our students held a mock election, complete with campaigning, voting, and speeches given on the three most concerning issues to Concord residents according to the City web site," Bilson said. "Those three issues are public safety, housing costs, and homelessness. Our students were assigned one of five districts (about 6 students in each group) and had to run a campaign based on one or all of the three main concerns. Once elections were certified, we held a mock City Council meeting to solidify their learning of the process of local government. We also wrote questions for the Mayor." During Obringer's visit, she gave students an overview of her job and answered lots of questions. She said the City Council assists people who are unsheltered and takes care of roads, parks, public safety and quality of life. The city works with the county on regional homelessness to provide shelters and mental health assistance and provides one of two shelters in the county. She invited students to check out a new playground a Todos Santos Plaza and said she often joins community groups to help pick up trash on weekends and has been involved in city tree planting projects. She said the city is working with developers to build new housing and has adopted rent control laws to help rentals remain affordable. When one student asked if people are happy with her, Obringer said, "I was re-elected last year with 76% of the votes, so I think on election day they were happy with me." She also urged families to shop in Concord to return money to the local economy, which helps fund improvements. One boy asked about the restaurant Chick-fil-A and Obringer said there is one in the city, but she doesn't anticipate any more opening in Concord. One teacher said, "We actually had a very heated discussion about Chick-fil-A." Obringer said she hopes a new restaurant will open soon in the former EJ Phair space downtown, noting that businesses provide jobs and serve people who live in the city, as part of its ecosystem. After the visit, students debriefed in their classrooms, reflecting on what they learned. Bilson said some main take aways they noted were: there are only two homeless shelters in 19 cities in Contra Costa County, and the Mayor plants a lot of trees and picks up garbage. They also learned that their voice matters. Student Himala Johnson, who was elected to the District 5 City Council seat in the school's mock election, was most excited about getting the Mayor’s business card, Bilson said.    Northgate HS students learn how to craft, debate and pass laws during annual Mock Congress  Mock Senate Clerks Rachel Tucker and Molly Stryker confer with Party Leader Adam Novik (above left). The Blue Senate (above right).  Student Charlie Agulles prepares to provide his statement on a bill (left). Student Carter Goodfellow listens as Ilsa Flynn comments during a bill debate (center). Social Studies teaders (l-r top row) Jennifer Collier, Mitchell Woerner, Paula Dillon, Jon Burchett, Brian Corbett and (l-r bottom row) Jenny Krnich, Jim Rogers, Meg Honey, and Christine Reimer facilitated the event (not pictured: Scott Harris). This week, Northgate High School's Senior class participated in Mock Congress: a two-day learning simulation that provides students with a transformative experience about lawmaking, said U.S. History and Ethnic Studies teacher Meg Honey. Mock Congress has been part of Northgate High School's Government classes for 45 years. Over the course of the fall semester, Seniors research an issue, construct bills, meet in committees, and elect Party leaders. During the two day simulation, Seniors assume the role of United States Senators where they debate, amend, and vote on the student authored bills in four simultaneously run Senates, with over 400 students participating.  Government teacher Jon Burchett shares that Mock Congress is a powerful and formative capstone project for Seniors: "Providing students with the opportunity to understand the legislative process by DOING has resulted in so many positive outcomes,” he said. “Our Seniors meaningfully collaborate and debate, and several of our students choose to pursue careers in public policy as result of their experience in Northgate's Mock Congress." Honey added: "I vividly remember my own Mock Congress experience as a student here at Northgate, and it is so exciting to watch our Senior class fully engage with the process. This incredible capstone project also meets the requirements for the California State Seal of Civic Engagement, and we are proud that the hard work of our students is honored with this important recognition." Senior Adam Novik served as a Party leader in the Blue Senate and commented on how many of voting outcomes transcended party affiliation. "Our Senate worked to pass bills on a variety of issues based on collective agreement,” he said. “We collaborated and cooperated across party lines. I loved my Mock Congress experience." Bill topics included ending unrestricted taxpayer funded support to nations committing genocide, safeguards on AI, ICE restrictions, gun control, and a bill to stop the exploitation/forced labor of child YouTube influencers, Honey said. District News No school next week for Thanksgiving Break, District offices open to public Monday and Tuesday MDUSD schools will be closed Nov. 24-28 for the Thanksgiving School Recess. There will be no Friday Letter or Organizational Update next week. District offices will be open to the public Nov. 24-25 and will be closed to the public Nov. 26-28 for the Thanksgiving holidays. Limited staff may be working on Nov. 26th and may be available by phone and/or email on that day.  Schools and District Offices will reopen on Monday, Dec. 1st. MDUSD is continuing upgrades to VOIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone system MDUSD is continuing to upgrade the District’s phone system to VoIP - Voice over Internet Protocol . The VoIP systems are being upgraded in phases, which started last school year, as part of Technology Infrastructure improvements. Sites upgraded: Mt. Diablo Elementary, Meadow Homes Elementary, Rio Vista Elementary, Silverwood Elementary, Willow Creek Center and Northgate HS. Upgrading in early winter 2025: Loma Vista Adult Education, Wren Avenue Elementary and Ayers Elementary. Upgrading in Spring, 2026: Gregory Gardens Elementary and the Dent Center (District Office)  Upgrading in Summer, 2026: Central Services (M&O, Food & Nutrition Services, Purchasing & Warehouse, Transportation) Upgrading in Early 2027: Sun Terrace and Hidden Valley elementary schools Board Briefs: Next Board meeting is December 10 due to Thanksgiving School Recess The MDUSD Board will not hold a second meeting in November due to the Thanksgiving School Recess next week. The next Board meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10 in the District Office Boardroom. This will be the annual Board Reorganization meeting, where Board members will elect a new President and Vice President. In addition, the Board expects to receive a report on the 2025 CA Accountability Dashboard and the First Interim Budget Report for 2025-26, among other items. The agenda will be posted here after 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5.   Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark's Weekly Organizational Update to the Board, which includes detailed District operations reports from Department leaders, is here . An archive of past reports is here . There will be no Organizational Update next week due to the Thanksgiving School Recess. Mt. Diablo Adult Education Annual Open House Art & Crafts Sale is Dec. 6th in Pleasant Hill Mt. Diablo Adult Education invites community members to its Annual Open House and Art & Crafts Sale from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6th at Mt. Diablo Adult Education, One Santa Barbara Road in Pleasant Hill. Follow the signs to the back of the campus to find unique handmade gifts for family and friends. Over 1,000 original works of art and crafts by current students and instructors will be on sale, including: wooden toys and gifts; ceramics; unique jewelry; handmade greeting cards; original paintings; sewn, quilted and hand knit items; woodcarvings, wood turned objects, and more.   Come enjoy folk guitar minstrels, creative writing readings, a dance demo, hot cider and more! Visit woodworking and woodturning shops and the quilt gallery and sale. The local La Guerita Food Truck will be available from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. to provide a variety of delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine! Consider a Gift Certificate for a Lifelong Education class! We offer hundreds of year-round day and evening classes to choose from taught by expert instructors.  MDUSD's SOAR (Support Office for Access and Resources) is collecting donations through Jan. 30 MDUSD's SOAR (Support Office for Access and Resources) program is holding their annual donation drive to support our students who are unhoused, foster youth, newcomers and refugees, LGBTQIA+, justice involved youth, human trafficking survivors or other extreme circumstances. Funds raised by this drive may be used to provide families with a wide variety of resources, clothing and other essentials. Monetary donations may be made via check, cash or Venmo (@MDUSDSOAR).  Checks may be sent to SOAR directly at: Willow Creek Center, 1026 Mohr Lane, Concord, CA 94518. Student News Mt. Diablo HS Patient Care Pathway students win Scholarships, attend Leadership Conference Mt. Diablo HS Patient Care Pathway teacher Dr. David Pintado and the school's HOSA-Future Health Professionals students attend the CAL HOSA Fall Leadership Conference (above). Students Vincent Tran (below left) and Mahsa Safi (below center) were awarded the John Muir Health “I Belong” Scholarship. Students Erika Santiago and Andrea Zermeno in a Phlebotomy workshop (below right). Mt. Diablo HS Patient Care Pathway teacher Dr. David Pintado (who is one of MDUSD's 2025 Teachers of the Year) is very proud to share that the school's  HOSA-Future Health Professionals student s recently participated in the 2025 CAL HOSA Fall Leadership Conference at Las Lomas High School in Walnut Creek. They presented the workshop "CTE Healthcare Industry Free Online Certifications" to the teachers of Dozier Libbey HS, Ygnacio Valley HS, Casa Grande HS, Oak Grove HS, Dublin HS, Novato HS, Castro Valley HS, Emerald HS, Monte Vista HS, Strattford Preparatory Blackford HS, and Las Lomas HS, he said.  He also shared the great news that two of his students, Vincent Tran and Mahsa Safi, were recently awarded the prestigious John Muir Health "I belong Scholarship." The HOSA students also participated in other activities including a Phlebotomy workshop, learning to draw blood for a Therapeutic Healthcare career. "Our MDHS Career Technical Student Organization (CTSO) is a leader in our Region," Dr. Pintado said, noting that he and his students appreciate the support they receive from the school and District's Career Pathways Program .  Northgate HS art students place 4th in nation in the Crosley record player design contest After weeks of incredible creativity and thousands of votes, Crosley Radio announced that Northgate HS was named a Runner Up in the 2025 Crosley Custom Cruiser Record Player Design Contest, placing 4th in the nation behind 1st place Edison HS (Edison NJ), 2nd Place Central HS (Knoxville, TN), and 3rd Place Lakeside HS (Atlanta, GA).  Earning 4th Place, Northgate HS in Walnut Creek (and MDUSD) finished ahead of the 5th Place finalist Carl Junction HS (Carl Junction, MO), after Northgate was named the Regional winner for the Western states based on online voting. "A huge congratulations to the talented students and teachers that put all their hard work into this contest," Crosley said in its announcement . MDUSD and Northgate HS are proud of the recognition the students received. More information about their entry is here.   Ygnacio Valley HS Community Cultural Club brings students who speak Dari and Farsi together Ygnacio Valley HS Community Service Assistant Azam Rasuli is pleased to share that the Community Cultural Club that she organized on the campus after she arrived at the school last year is flourishing. "Since then, I have focused on building strong relationships between families and staff," said Rasuli, who speaks Dari and Farsi along with the students in the club. "We started to make big changes at our school," she said, adding that she hopes other campuses will also have the opportunity to hire Dari/Farsi-speaking community helpers.  "We created a Ramadan protocol to support our students, and I helped families connect and understand one another better," Rasuli said. "I had the opportunity to organize different events that helped families feel a sense of belonging. I also created the  Cultural Community Club  where students from many backgrounds can make friends, celebrate their traditions, and share their cultures with others." For example, she said one Arab girl is best friends with a girl from Bangladesh.  "My goal has always been to help students feel proud of their heritage while also integrating into new cultures," Rasuli explained. "I’m sharing this because it’s important for others to understand the value of hiring community support staff on their campuses." Thank you, Azam, for helping to improve the sense of community at Ygnacio Valley HS! School News Bridge Program hosts inaugural Friendsgiving, expressing thankfulness for students Bridge Program Administrator Joel Miner and staff help serve food (above left) at the program's inaugural Friendsgiving (above and below right). Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark visits with a student and staff member Liliana Cuevo (below left). The  Bridge Program  at the Loma Vista Adult Education Center hosted its inaugural "Friendsgiving" on Thursday, Nov. 20.  "This is an opportunity for our entire program of students and staff to share in a meal in the spirit of giving thanks," said Program Administrator Joel Miner. "We as a program have so much to be thankful for. Our students are unique and a blessing to each of us who get the opportunity to support them." During the week, students worked on an appreciation they could choose to share during the event using their preferred method of communication ranging for verbal, written, and/or Augmentative and Alternative Communication ( AAC ) supported communication. Classes focused on reading, writing, art, and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) lessons that centered around thankfulness and appreciation. Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark, who attended the Friendsgiving, thanked Miner and "the amazing staff of the MDUSD Bridge Program" for hosting the event. "It was a great experience with fantastic food," he said. The BRIDGE Program is for persons 18-22 with disabilities who have completed four years of high school with a Certificate of Completion or who are working towards a Certificate of Completion and have turned 18 years old. More information is here.   School Social Media Highlights Ayers, Gregory Gardens, Meadow Homes and Walnut Acres elementary schools MDUSD elementary students have been enjoying fun, festive and educational activities. Recent social media highlights include: a Turkey Trot at Ayers Elementary , celebrating the 67th day of school at Gregory Gardens Elementary , engaging in fantastic math lessons at Meadow Homes Elementary , and Walnut Acres Elementary 5th-graders enjoying a trip to the beach! Diablo View, Oak Grove, Sequoia and Pleasant Hill middle schools MDUSD middle school students have been celebrating in a variety of ways. Recent social media highlights include: Diablo View MS student Turkey Trot winners collect their prizes, Oak Grove MS celebrated students with perfect attendance, Sequoia MS students crushed their annual 1-mile turkey trot, and Pleasant Hill MS art students create plaster cake slices and paper mache donuts, getting into the spirit of sharing sweet treats at this time of year! Concord, Northgate, Olympic and Ygnacio Valley high schools MDUSD high school students have been getting out and about. Recent social media highlights include: Congrats to the Concord HS Bears Football team,  which won its NCS Div. 7 First Round Playoff game against Vallejo last week and is facing Middletown in the semifinals tonight, Northgate HS Girls Wrestler Symone Jewell has been ranked #6 in the nation in the 150-pounds category by Sports Illustrated, Olympic HS students learned a lot on a field trip to the Exploratorium, and Ygnacio Valley HS students raced in their Turkey Trot highlighted in this reel! Staff Social Media Highlights College Park HS, Oak Grove MS, Gregory Gardens Elementary and Walnut Acres Elementary MDUSD staff members have been building community. Recent social media highlights include: College Park HS Principal Dr. Richardson  jumps into the pool to help the CPHS Girls Water Polo team celebrate their DAL win, Oak Grove MS staff took on students in a soccer game that ended in a 3-3 tie, Gregory Gardens Elementary Kindergarten teachers Kristin Hagstrom and Olivia Watson celebrate the 67th day of school, and Walnut Acres Elementary staff posed for a group photo wearing their "67" shirts to celebrate the 67th day of school! Important Dates Nov. 22:  Martinez City Tree Planting from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hidden Valley Park (See attached flyer) Nov. 24-28:  Thanksgiving School Recess (Schools closed all week; District Offices open to the public Nov. 24-25; limited staff available via email and phone Nov. 26; closed Nov. 27-28) Dec. 6 : Mt. Diablo Adult Education  Annual Open House Art & Crafts Sale from 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Pleasant Hill Education Center, 1 Santa Barbara Road in Pleasant Hill (See District News above) Dec. 9:  Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC)  Holiday Party  at 6 p.m. Monte Gardens Elementary (RSVP required) Dec. 10:  District Governing Board  meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Dec. 16 : District Budget Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting at 6 p.m. at the District Office;  District Parent Advisory Committee (PAC)  meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord Dec. 22-Jan. 2:  Winter Recess (Schools closed; District Offices open to the public Dec. 22-23 and Dec. 29-30; District Offices closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1; limited staff available by phone and email in District offices Dec. 24, 26, 31 and Jan. 2) The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Nov 22 2025

Friday Letter - November 14, 2025

NOVEMBER 14, 2025 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 8 NO. 15 Dear MDUSD Community, Happy Friday! This has been an inspiring (four day) week in Mt. Diablo. This newsletter is evidence of the incredible work happening across our District. Each week we put this communication together, I’m reminded of the gifts every child possesses! In this edition of the Friday Letter, I’m thrilled to spotlight our brand-new  Teacher Residency Program in partnership with St. Mary’s College of California . We welcomed 12 residents this year, and we’re already seeing their impact in classrooms across the District.  We’re also highlighting Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day,  which was celebrated at Delta View Elementary and Riverview Middle School with support from our Focal Scholars Program. Other campuses participating in this powerful event included Gregory Gardens, Monte Gardens, Silverwood, Strandwood, Sun Terrace, Valhalla, Walnut Acres and Westwood elementary schools, Holbrook Language Academy, and Sequoia and Valley View middle schools. These events are a meaningful reminder of the importance of equity, bravery, and the student experience. Our students continue to make us proud with their achievements. The Ygnacio Valley High School Math Team recently participated in the big time UC Berkeley Math Tournament, solving challenging problems through advanced reasoning and teamwork. Also,  members of the Beauty for Ashes club at YVHS  led a schoolwide cleanup effort that inspired others to join in. Their leadership and care for their campus is exciting. At  Northgate High School, an art student team  has been named one of five national finalists in the Crosley record player design contest. Thank you to everyone who cast a vote in support of their creative work. The winners will be announced Thursday, November 20.  In District news, I’m pleased to report that the  Board of Education has officially ratified the new contract with the Mt. Diablo Education Association. This agreement reflects our shared commitment to supporting our educators and advancing student achievement. Other highlights include:   Pleasant Hill MS 7th grader Charlotte Proctor won the 2025 local Lions Club Peace Poster Contest Don’t forget to check out our social media spotlights this week, where we recognize schools and staff members who are doing awesome things! Thank you for your ongoing  support and involvement in our schools. Together, we are creating and sustaining successful learning environments where all students can thrive.  Dr. Adam Clark  Superintendent Spotlight MDUSD Teacher Residency Program with St. Mary’s College of CA provides unique opportunities for District and aspiring educators; information night is Tuesday, Nov. 18 MDUSD-St. Mary's College of California Teacher Resident Dre Walker teaches current events and life skills to special education students (above left), poses with student "Alex" and Mentor Teacher Mary Acebu (above right), collaborates with para-educator Kimberley Montano and Acebu on a science experiment (below left), reviews the upcoming school schedule with students (below center) and practices a special handshake with Alex (below right).  Information night is Tuesday, Nov. 18 (flyer below) MDUSD is excited to have launched a new Teacher Residency program in partnership with St. Mary's College of California, which offers teachers in training the opportunity to work alongside a highly qualified teacher mentor in our District three days a week. This year, 12 teacher residents have been placed in Hidden Valley, Strandwood and Wren Avenue elementary schools; and at El Dorado and Riverview middle schools. They include residents pursuing multiple subject, single subject math, and special education credentials, who receive stipends of $31,400 per year and are given priority for substitute teaching positions while they are residents and for teaching positions after they earn their preliminary credentials at the end of this school year. "I think it's going really well," said Christina Nelson, MDUSD's Teacher Residency Program Coordinator. "We're hoping to fill hard-to-fill positions and we are focused on diversifying the workforce."  MDUSD and St. Mary's College are co-hosting a  virtual information night from 4-5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18  f or those who are interested in participating in the second year of the program in 2026-27 (see flyer for details). The application deadline to St. Mary's is March 1 and candidates can apply to the MDUSD residency after they are accepted. At Riverview MS, teacher resident Dre Walker said he feels blessed to have been accepted into the program and paired with Special Education teacher Mary Acebu, a 13-year veteran who teaches Special Day Class students in grades 7-8. "I have to step up my game this year, in terms of lesson planning and being able to group the students strategically," she said, explaining how she is adapting to having another educator in the classroom along with para-educator Kimberley Montano. The students shift from one class to the next because many are mainstreamed for part of the day. "I'm here to show him the ropes on IEPs (Individualized Education Programs), testing, using different technologies to reach the kids, district requirements, and getting him ready for next year, once he becomes a full-fledged special education teacher." Both Walker and Acebu agree that it is rewarding to teach special education. "Kids light up in the classroom once they understand something - that's always the goal," Acebu said. "They'll say, 'Oh, you taught me that last week,' and it just clicks. Those 'aha' moments - I live for those. I love that the most - being with the kids. I know if I can change even one student's life, I think I've fulfilled my purpose." Walker sees the strong relationships that Acebu has built with her current and former students and he is working to establish his own connections with students. "She has found the students' superpowers," he said. "Most of our students have a skillset they don't realize. We bring it to light, so they can see it and run with it. These kids need an opportunity to be with quality teachers who believe in them." One student named Alex said she likes both Acebu and Walker. "She's fantastic," Alex said of Acebu. "She's the fun teacher. She's nice and she's kind. And Mr. Dre - he's kind and he likes my artwork and how I try my best when I'm doing my work." Walker and Alex get along so well that they have created their own handshake, which they excitedly demonstrated. Both Acebu and Walker are on the same wavelength in terms of blending academic and social and emotional learning by making their classroom a positive place where students feel safe, respected, academically challenged, welcome and valued. "We teach them to love themselves and to love others," Walker said. "Our kids are not afraid to ask questions," Acebu added. Relying on the Universal Design for Learning, they design lessons to meet students' individual needs. Acebu, who is one of the school's Technology Integration Leaders, uses multimedia, websites and creates her own virtual lessons taking students places they have never been, such as Japan. When they use videos, such as  CNN 10  current events, Acebu and Walker stop the program often to talk about it and how it relates to students' lives, explaining vocabulary words that may be unfamiliar. Acebu tries to make lessons engaging by rephrasing questions, alternating between multiple choice, writing and oral lessons. When some students said they didn't know why they were getting Tuesday off, that sparked a discussion about Veterans Day and why it's important - and Acebu learned that some students have military family members. "She's fluid," Walker observed. "She's constantly changing based on the surroundings and characteristics of her students." By listening to the students, Acebu said she is able to figure out what they are interested in and what they have questions about. She also gives them short breaks during lessons so they don't feel bombarded by too many questions in a row. And she encourages students to ask questions if they don't understand something, which helps them feel confident and prepares them for high school.  Walker attends staff meetings and is included in Acebu's communications to other staff members and to parents, which include weekly reports about what students are learning. Acebu said teaching life skills is Walker's forte. He loves explaining things like Native American History and Digital Citizenship to students. Both Acebu and Walker said they would highly recommend the Teacher Residency program to aspiring teachers, as well as to veteran teacher mentors. "It can seem overwhelming to work with another person in the class, but it takes skill, patience and leadership," Acebu said. "When you know what you're able to bring to the table to help someone be the best teacher they can be, this is the perfect program to help people who want to be teachers in the future." Walker said Acebu welcomed him with open arms and treated him as an equal when he first arrived. "At age 57, I'm learning new things," Walker said. "She's amazing." Delta View Elementary among several schools to celebrate Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day Delta View Elementary 4th- and 5th-graders parade around the block carrying Ruby Bridges pennants (above) after participating in playground and art activities (below left and center), and hearing presentations about Ruby Bridges from students in the KTH Learning after-school tutoring program (below right).  To help educate students about the courageous, historic, and nation-changing “walk” of Ruby Bridges in November of 1960 to integrate schools, MDUSD's Focal Scholar program helped to coordinate a  Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day event at Delta View Elementary on Friday. Delta View was one of several District schools participating in the nationwide event, which is held on Nov. 14th to commemorate the anniversary of the day 6-year-old Ruby Bridges became the first African American child to integrate the formerly whites-only William Frantz Elementary School in Louisiana. Schoolchildren around the country celebrate her accomplishment by walking to their schools, reading books and watching videos about Ruby Bridges, and talking about both historic and ongoing efforts to fight racism and discrimination. At Delta View, 4th and 5th graders worked on art projects in the cafeteria focused on Ruby Bridges, and played games outside that Ruby Bridges enjoyed, such as jumping rope. They then watched a video about Bridges that explained her role in ending segregation in public schools. Then, several students in the after-school KTH Learning program presented short reports based on research they had done about Bridges. The event culminated with students re-enacting Bridges' walk by parading around the block carrying Ruby Bridges pennants. Other schools that participated in similar events on their campuses include: Gregory Gardens, Monte Gardens, Silverwood, Strandwood, Sun Terrace, Valhalla, Walnut Acres and Westwood elementary schools, Holbrook Language Academy, and Riverview, Sequoia and Valley View middle schools The Delta View and Riverview events were hosted by members of MDUSD's Focal Scholars Team, which is helping K-12 students from seven Focal Scholar schools within MDUSD - including Delta View and Riverview - with their attendance, behavior, and academic endeavors to show growth in each area. Students receive free tutorial and counseling services as a benefit of being in this program.  Focal Scholar Program Instructional Program Specialist Jaylani Cortes, who coordinated the Delta View program, said the purpose is to celebrate Ruby Bridges as one of the first African American girls to help integrate schools and to recognize her continued work as a Civil Rights activist.  Fourth-graders Leilani Mar and Mary Diop said they enjoyed the activities. On a poster, Leilani wrote: "Be brave, kind, helpful and loving." Mary wrote: "We love you Ruby Bridges." Mary said Ruby made everything fair so that black people and white people could go to the same school together. Students who gave the presentations talked about Ruby, as well as how they can be like her. "I can show courage and respect at school by being nice to others and treating everyone equally," one boy said. Another boy added: "She taught me not to give up and don't let anyone get to me." Another student concluded: "I can learn to be brave. I can also respect others. Unity starts with us." The Riverview MS event included a walk, as well as discussions about civil rights, racial justice, anti-racism and anti-bullying. It aimed to inspire the next generation to be leaders who promote positive change in their schools and communities.  Check out the school social media highlights below to see how other schools celebrated the event, including Strandwood Elementary, which may be featured on KTVU. District News Board Briefs: Board approves 3-year Mt. Diablo Education Association (MDEA) contract MDUSD Board Members (back row) stand with Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark (left) and District and MDEA Bargaining team members after approving a 3-year MDEA contract on Nov. 12, 2025. The MDUSD Board held a Special Meeting as the MDUSD Education Facilities Financing Corporation on Nov. 12 and elected the Board President as the MDUSD Education Facilities Financing Corporation President, and the Board Vice President as the corporation's Vice President. Then, they unanimously approved a Resolution Authorizing and Directing the Execution and Delivery of a Lease Agreement with MDUSD to Provide Financing for School Facilities of the District and Approving Related Documents and Official Actions. The agenda is here . During its regular meeting on Nov. 12, the Board appointed Rory O'Connor as District Athletic Compliance Officer ; and approved the Tentative Agreement  between the Mt. Diablo Education Association (MDEA) and MDUSD. In addition, the Board approved a Title 1 Schoolwide Program for Westwood Elementary, and an Updated Facility Use Fee Structure, among other items. The complete agenda is here . Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark's Weekly Organizational Update to the Board, which includes detailed District operations reports from Department leaders, is here . An archive of past reports is here. State releases updated California School Dashboard data for districts and schools The state released updated California School Dashboard data for districts and schools on Thursday, which include metrics in a variety of categories including Chronic Absenteeism, Suspension Rates, English Learner Progress, Graduation Rate, College and Career readiness, and English Language Arts and Math standardized test performance, among other indicators. MDUSD's Dashboard is here. The Board expects to receive a Dashboard report on Dec. 10. Click "View All Schools" to see MDUSD School Dashboards African American Parent Advisory Council College & Career Night provides resources & info The district-wide African American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) meeting on Nov. 13, hosted by El Dorado Middle School, took place in a library full of parents, community members, and school staff, said Family Engagement Coordinator Dr. Lamont Francies. "The meeting offered valuable insights into supporting students' educational journeys," he said. Youth Development & Support Services Manager Anna Ramos shared important information about  dual enrollment options and how students can meet the A-G requirements necessary for college eligibility. Her presentation provided clear steps for families to understand how to navigate this process. In addition, Dr. Charles Brown III, a Business Service Representative with the Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County, spoke about post-secondary opportunities for students. He highlighted the importance of mentoring and discussed scholarship opportunities available to help students pursue higher education or workforce training after high school. "The meeting was well-received, offering valuable resources for students and families, and it was a great networking opportunity for everyone involved," Dr. Francies said. Our next district-wide AAPAC meeting will be our Kwanzaa celebration, hosted by Rio Vista Elementary School, on December 18 at 6 PM . We hope to see you there! MDUSD is accepting 2026-27 Teacher of the Year Nominations through Tuesday, Nov. 18 MDUSD invites District staff, students, parents/guardians and community members to nominate a teacher for the 2026-27 MDUSD and Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year. Nominations are due by 12 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. Candidates must have a minimum of 8 years of teaching experience to move forward to the County Office of Education competition. Click here for the nomination form in English . Click here for the nomination form in Spanish . The District hopes to receive at least one nomination from each school recognizing classroom teachers who have demonstrated a passion for teaching, an ability to differentiate instruction to meet students' needs, and teachers who connect with and support their school community. Two teachers will represent the District in the County competition MDUSD's SOAR (Support Office for Access and Resources) is collecting donations through Jan. 30 MDUSD's SOAR (Support Office for Access and Resources) program is here to help families get connected with the resources and support they need. We provide basic necessities for all students, whether they are enrolled in the SOAR Program or not — including backpacks, school supplies, clothing, hygiene kits, and referrals to local food resources. If you or someone you know could use assistance, please reach out to soar@mdusd.org or call 925-685-1011, ext. 62042. If you’re in a position to help others, please consider making a donation this holiday season to support families in need within our community. Every dollar donated goes directly to supporting MDUSD students in need. Please see the flyer for details. SOAR also encourages staff, families and community members to wear green on Fridays in November to shine a light on National Homeless Youth Awareness Month.  Student News Pleasant Hill MS 7th grader Charlotte Proctor wins 2025 local Lions Club Peace Poster Contest Pleasant Hill MS art teacher Lyn Bergen is pleased to share the news that 7th-grader Charlotte Proctor is the the winner of the 2025 local Lions Club Peace Poster Contest. Charlotte will be awarded $50 and a chance to move on to the State competition, Bergen said. The 2025 contest theme is "Together as One." More information is here .  Congrats!  Ygnacio Valley HS Math Team competes in annual UC Berkeley Math Tournament On Saturday, November 8, the Ygnacio Valley HS Math Team represented our school at the annual UC Berkeley Math Tournament, joining over 1,400 students from across the region on the UC Berkeley campus, said Math Department Chair Tabatha Box. "Students participated in three rigorous competition rounds—the Power Round, Focus Test, and Guts Team Round—each designed to challenge and strengthen mathematical problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking skills in a collegiate academic environment," she said. "These competitions also support the development of students' mathematical stamina and endurance. This opportunity allowed students to apply higher-level math reasoning beyond the classroom, work as a cohesive academic team, and experience the energy of a university learning community. We are proud of our students for their engagement, perseverance, and teamwork throughout this full-day competition." Well done! Ygnacio Valley HS Beauty for Ashes club cleanup effort inspires others to join in Students from the Beauty For Ashes club at Ygnacio Valley HS recently volunteered to clean the school after classes, said Community Coordinator Marcela Sosa. "They were very excited to serve and take care of their school," she said. "Parents who saw them cleaning as they were leaving were delighted and expressed their appreciation. Even a teacher, Ms. Nassrallah, joined in to help!"  The goal of this activity is to teach students—and inspire their peers—about the importance of maintaining a clean school environment, Sosa explained. It not only keeps our surroundings beautiful, but also reflects who they are and the pride they take in their community.  "Beauty for Ashes" is essentially about the idea that no matter how challenging your grades, personal life, or other struggles may be, they can be transformed into something beautiful. Is also to provide an inclusive environment for members to reflect and explore their spirituality, Sosa added. Northgate HS art team named 1 of 5 national finalists in Crosley record player design contest The Northgate HS student art team that entered the Crosley Custom Cruiser Record Player Art Design contest has been named a finalist in the National Contest!!  Thank you to all who voted for these talented artists! They will now compete against four other regional winners in the final round of judging by a panel from Crosley that will judge the entries based on overall creativity, relevance to the theme of "Band Together," execution, and engagement. The national winner will be announced Thursday, Nov. 20th!  More information about the Northgate HS entry is here .  School Social Media Highlights Holbrook Language Academy, and Strandwood, Valhalla and Walnut Acres elementary schools MDUSD elementary students on many campuses participated in the Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day on Friday. Social media highlights include: Holbrook Language Academy  celebrated its first Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day accompanied by Concord Police Officers, Strandwood Elementary 's Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day included a presentation by Principal Utler and a visit from KTVU, Valhallha Elementary Principal Theodora Pappas  explained the significance of the event, and Walnut Acres Elementary families and staff honored Ruby’s legacy with love and unity. Holbrook Language Academy, Diablo View MS, Valley View MS and Sequoia MS MDUSD middle school students have been participating in a variety of activities including Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day. Recent social media highlights include: Holbrook Language Academy middle school students worked collaboratively on a vocabulary activity, Diablo View MS students celebrated and honored our Veterans, Valley View MS recognizes Ruby Bridges’ bravery and commitment to equality, and Sequoia MS students stand together for kindness, courage and inclusion on Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day! Concord, Mt. Diablo, Northgate and Ygnacio Valley high schools MDUSD high schools have been engaging students and parents in educational and fun activities. Recent social media highlights include: Reel highlights Winter Sports teams starting to practice at Concord HS , Mt. Diablo HS hosted a successful 9th grade parents night that included information about graduation requirements and a raffle, the Northgate HS wrestling team went on a hike for some team bonding; and an Ygnacio Valley HS reel highlights the school's Homecoming Rally! Staff Social Media Highlights Riverview MS, Sequoia MS, Delta View/Wren Avenue elementary schools, and Latina Consejeras MDUSD school psychologists received special shout-outs during School Psychology Week and four Latina Counselors hosted another successful event! The psychologists recognized were: Riverview MS School Psychologists  Mr. Collins and Ms. Aguilar, Sequoia MS School Psychologist Rachel Utler, Delta View and Wren Avenue elementary School Psychologist  Marin Bako, and Consejeras Marcie Torres, Yaretzie Amaya, Leidi Arias and Angela Ordaz led another successful "Cafecito con las Consejeras" at Shore Acres Elementary! Important Dates Nov. 18 : District Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord; Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC)  meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Nov. 20: Measure J Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) meeting at 5 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom; District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC)  meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center  Nov. 22 : Martinez City Tree Planting at Hidden Valley Park (community volunteers needed; see attached flyer) Nov. 24-28:  Thanksgiving Recess (Schools closed all week; District Offices open to the public Nov. 24-25; limited staff available via email and phone Nov. 26; closed Nov. 27-28) Dec. 9: Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC)  Holiday Party at 6 p.m. Monte Gardens Elementary Dec. 10 : District Governing Board  meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Dec. 16 : District Budget Advisory Committee (BAC) meeting at 6 p.m. at the District Office; District Parent Advisory Committee (PAC)  meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord Dec. 22-Jan. 2 :  Winter Recess  (Schools closed; District Offices open to the public Dec. 22-23 and Dec. 29-30; District Offices closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1; limited staff available by phone and email in District offices Dec. 24, 26, 31 and Jan. 2) The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Nov 15 2025

Friday Letter - November 7, 2025

NOVEMBER 7, 2025 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 8 NO. 14 Dear MDUSD Community, It has been another great week in Mt. Diablo Unified. I want to start this message off with recognizing the incredible energy and creativity of our students! On Wednesday, we had the pleasure of hosting the  Building Trades Parent-Student Night at Concord High School , where students and families were exposed to pathways into skilled trades and apprenticeship programs. Events like this prove the power of partnership and how we can work together to prepare our students for the future. Our schools continue to do great things. The Concord High School “Scare Away Hunger” campaign is an example of student-led service. They’ve already collected over 12,000 pounds of food, raised nearly $4,300 in donations, and helped provide 18,705 meals for those in need.  Donations are still being accepted through Friday, November 14 . We’re also proud of the many ways students are excelling and expressing themselves. Northgate High art students are showing off their talents in a neat design competition that blends visual art and music. Congratulations to  Foothill MS student Marcus Lee, who won the Juvenile Boys Free Skate in the 2026 Pacific Coast Sectional Singles  and will move onto the "Development Team." Our commitment to preparing students for life after high school was on full display as  Ygnacio Valley High’s varsity football team became the first athletic program in the District to complete Career Pathways Work Readiness Workshops , earning certification in skills like resume writing, time management, and professionalism. From Olympic High School’s festive activities to Mountain View Elementary students taking a “selfie from space” thanks to their teacher’s creative outreach to YouTuber Mark Rober, there’s no shortage of greatness across MDUSD. Pleasant Hill Middle School’s trip to Levi’s Stadium  and  Walnut Acres Elementary’s Halloween Parade on their newly paved track  are just a few more examples of the wonderful experiences happening every day in Mt. D! We are sad to share the recent passing of EJ Barna, a valued afterschool program staff member at Riverview Middle School . EJ made a deep and lasting impact on students and staff alike, and we hold his family and the Riverview community in our hearts.  All schools and offices will be closed on Tuesday, November 11 in observance of Veterans Day , as we honor those who have served. We give a special thank you and acknowledgement to all veterans. Other highlights include: Mt. Diablo Adult Education hosts the Contra Costa Central Career Expo School and Staff Social Media Highlights As always, thank you for your continued support and for being part of this incredible MDUSD community. Thank you, Dr. Adam Clark Spotlight Building Trades Night shows families pathways to skilled trades and apprenticeship programs MDUSD students learn about welding (above left) and plumbing and pipefitting (above right). Parents and students talk to tradeswomen (below left and center). A student and parent look at a display at the Building Trades Parent Night at Concord HS on Nov. 5, 2025. Hundreds of MDUSD parents/guardians and students had the opportunity to meet with representatives from several trades unions during the District's first ever Building Trades Night on Nov. 5 at Concord HS, where they learned about training and career opportunities. The event was presented through a partnership between MDUSD, the Torlakson Whole Child Institute and local trades unions.  It included hands-on demonstrations, information booths and remarks from MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark, Mae Cendaña Torlakson, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier, CA Building and Construction Trades Council President Chris Hannan, and a College Park HS grad who is now in a plumber's apprenticeship program, as well as his mom. Thurmond said California and Contra Costa County need trades workers to build the infrastructure and housing our communities need. Hannan said trades workers can proudly build anything the state or country can imagine, while earning middle class wages without student debt, since they get paid while they are in the apprenticeship programs - and also receive health benefits and retirement pensions. Hannan also stressed the importance of math in the trades, saying: "If you are mechanically inclined, if you like to build things, if you like to be able to see what you've accomplished, if you like to be part of a sisterhood or a brotherhood, the trades are for you!" Rep. DeSaulnier said he was pleased to be part of such a special evening. "In this whole country," he said, "there is nothing like this unique partnership happening." Second year plumbing apprentice Dylan Woodhall said he enrolled in a pre-apprenticeship program at  Diablo Valley College before becoming an apprentice, where he uses math every day and works hard, while making great pay. "I'm 23 years old and I just bought a condo right down the street," he said. His mom, Jennifer Woodhall, told parents at the event: "I think it's a fabulous program."  El Dorado MS math teacher Jodi Masongsong and Oak Grove MS math teachers Jeffrey Juico and Gian De Los Santos talked to parents about the math skills they teach, which are important in the trades, including measuring, converting units such as inches to feet or ounces to pounds, estimation, geometry and fractions. "Some need to calculate voltage and they all need to know how to problem-solve and think critically," Masongsong said. De Los Santos added: "And if your boss asks you for half of something, you need to know how to calculate that half."   Celeste Sanchez, a member of the Laborers Union, said construction workers do a variety of jobs from pouring concrete to demolition, shoveling, and cleaning up debris. "I love it," said Sanchez, who is a petite 4'11" tall. "If I can do it, anyone can do it!" MDUSD parent Magdalena Rodriguez, who attended the event with her four children, said she came to learn more about options for them after graduation. Her son Oseas, who is a Sequoia MS 6th-grader, said he liked the copper pipe-fitting demonstration. Concord HS Sophomore Arjen Swift-Wade, who attended the event with his father, said he appreciated the opportunity to learn about a variety of jobs and what they entail. He suggested expanding the program to include lesser-known jobs such as mural artists, fine woodworking including furniture making, and music production. He was most interested in drywall, glazier, flooring and painting jobs and said he heard the message about the importance of math loud and clear. Arjen praised his Concord HS math teacher Jose Soltero, saying he explains geometry really well. Parent Juana Cisneros, who attended the event with her children including Concord HS sophomore Juan Villafan, said she enjoyed learning more about the trades and benefits. Juan said he found the laborer job opportunities interesting.    MDUSD Board President Linda Mayo, who attended the Trades Night along with the rest of the Board members, expressed her gratitude afterward to everyone who organized and facilitated the event, including MDUSD and Concord HS staff members. "Your efforts showed our community and elected officials from throughout the county, and the Trades, what a shining star MDUSD is," she said.   Click here to see a reel highlighting the event . More information about MDUSD's Career Pathways programs is here .  District News Instradistrict transfer application deadline is Monday, Nov. 10 for the 2025-26 school year No School Tuesday for Veterans Day holiday; Parent/Caregiver - Teacher conferences next week The Intradistrict Transfer application deadline is Monday, Nov. 10, 2025, for all schools, grades 1-12 and for Sequoia and Monte Gardens' elementary schools' Kindergarten. This application is only for students living within the MDUSD boundaries who want to attend a school other than their school of residence. The  transfer application links are on the District website here . The Intradistrict Transfer Application window for Kindergarteners (except Sequoia and Monte Gardens) will take place in Spring 2026  (February - March).  MDUSD schools and District Offices will be closed Tuesday, Nov. 11 in honor of the  Veterans Day Holiday .   MDUSD Elementary Parent/Caregiver - Teacher Conferences for students in grades TK-5 will continue next week on Nov. 10 and Nov. 12-14. During this week, elementary students will be released early to allow time for the conferences after school. The complete 2025-26 MDUSD Academic Calendar is here . SOAR program offers resources for families in need; County approves emergency CalFresh aid MDUSD's SOAR (Support Office for Access and Resources) program is here to help families get connected with the resources and support they need . We provide basic necessities for all students, whether they are enrolled in the SOAR Program or not — including backpacks, school supplies, clothing, hygiene kits, and referrals to local food resources. If you or someone you know could use assistance, please reach out to soar@mdusd.org or call 925-685-1011, ext. 62042. If you’re in a position to help others, please consider making a donation this holiday season to support families in need within our community. Every dollar donated goes directly to supporting MDUSD students in need. Please see the flyer for details.  The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Declared an Emergency Over the CalFresh Funding Disruption Due to the federal shutdown, and has allocated $21 million to purchase debit cards for distribution to CalFresh November eligible households starting Nov. 10 at 400 Ellinwood Way in Pleasant Hill and 3 other locations. Here is the County press release in English and Spanish .  Information about how to apply for CalFresh is here . The press release also includes other information about food resources, including the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano.  A list of places offering free food is here .  If you would like to donate to the Food Bank, please see information about the Concord HS Scare Away Hunger Campaign  under "Student News" below. "Cafecito Con Las Consejeras" (Coffee with the counselors) is Saturday, Nov. 8 in Bay Point MDUSD's next "Cafecito Con Las Consejeras" (Coffee with the Counselors): A Chat with Latina Counselors, is from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 8 in the Shore Acres Elem. Cafeteria at 351 Marina Road in Bay Point. Topics will include: academic success, colleges & universities, and career exploration. RSVP here .  For more information, contact Ms. Angela Ordaz at ordaz@mdusd.org or (925) 682-8000 x85671, Ms. Leidi Arias at ariasl@mdusd.org or (925) 682-4030 x3406, Ms. Marcie Torres at torresmm@mdusd.org or (925) 682-8000 x6418, or Ms. Yaretzie Amaya at amayay@mdusd.org or (925) 682-4030 x3414. Hablamos Español. HS seniors can apply by November 9th to the Diamante Scholars Program at Diablo Valley College High School seniors from Concord, Mt. Diablo, Olympic, and Ygnacio Valley high schools who are still exploring college and career options are encouraged to apply by Sunday, November 9th to the Diamante Scholars Program at Diablo Valley College . Designed for students with overlooked potential, the program builds confidence and career readiness through mentoring, internships, and hands-on learning. It begins in the spring of senior year with a DVC class on college success, followed by a summer internship and continued support through the first two years at DVC. Click here to apply and see the attached brochure for more information. MDUSD Adult Education Lifelong Learning program offers new classes in November MDUSD's Adult Lifelong Education program has plenty to offer in November, including cooking, crafts (including Marsha's Succulents and Backyard Gardening, pictured left), finance, personal enrichment, technology, woodturning and woodworking! Details are in the program's November newsletter here .  More information about Mt. Diablo Adult Education is on the MDAE website here .    Board Briefs: Board Subcommittee met with Martinez City Schools Subcommittee  Next regular Board meeting is Wednesday Superintendent Clark (left) speaks to an MDUSD Board Subcommittee of (l-r) Board Vice President Debra Mason and Trustee Keisha Nzewi, in a joint meeting with the Martinez City Schools Subcommittee including Public Works Director Joe Enke, City Manager Michael Chandler, Mayor Brianne Zorn and Councilman Satinder Malhi. An MDUSD Board Subcommittee consisting of Vice President Debra Mason and Trustee Keisha Nzewi held a Joint Meeting with the Martinez City Schools Subcommittee consisting of Mayor Brianne Zorn and Councilman Satinder Malhi on Monday, Nov. 10 to discuss issues of interest. The group discussed Safe Routes to Schools , 511 Contra Costa's Walk'N Roll Program and a planned  Tree Planting project at Hidden Valley Park  near Hidden Valley Elementary. The complete agenda is here . The  meeting recording is here . Potential agenda items to be discussed at a future meeting included: emergency preparedness, youth participation in Martinez commissions, and joint use of the city-owned Community Garden near Hidden Valley Elementary. After the meeting, staff from both the District and city finalized the  tree planting project to include two events for which they are seeking community volunteers  (see attached flyer with registration QR code): Hidden Valley Park: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, November 22 Pine Meadow Park: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, December 6 The MDUSD Board will hold a Special Meeting as the MDUSD Education Facilities Financing Corporation at 5:45 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12 in the District Boardroom to appoint a MDUSD Education Facilities Financing Corporation President and Vice President, and consider a Resolution Authorizing and Directing the Execution and Delivery of a Lease Agreement with MDUSD to Provide Financing for School Facilities of the District and Approving Related Documents and Official Actions. The  agenda is here . The MDUSD Board will hold a regular meeting at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12 in the District Office Boardroom to appoint a District Athletic Compliance Officer; and review and potentially approve the Tentative Agreement between the Mt. Diablo Education Association (MDEA) and MDUSD, a Title 1 Schoolwide Program for Westwood Elementary, and an Updated Facility Use Fee Structure, among other items. The complete agenda is here . Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark's Weekly Organizational Update to the Board, which includes detailed District operations reports from Department leaders, is here . An archive of past reports is here. Experience Dyslexia Event is Thursday, Nov. 13 at the District Office in Concord The District’s Special Education Dept. will host its second “Experience Dyslexia” event from 4-6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13 at the District Office, 1936 Carlotta Drive in Concord.  The free event will include updates on the Universal Screener for students at risk of reading difficulties for all students in grades K-2.  MDUSD parents, staff and community members are invited to attend to learn more about this new program. Registration is required here. Information about the first event is here . (This event will be the same as the first event.) Dual Enrollment Parent Night is Thursday, Nov. 13 virtually and at Willow Creek Center MDUSD invites parents/guardians to our Dual Enrollment Parent Night from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13 at Willow Creek Center in Concord.  Parents can also attend this event virtually here . See the flyers in English and Spanish or visit the MDUSD Early College Credit web page for more information. Email Salinastognettij@mdusd.org if you have questions. African American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) College Readiness Night is Thursday, Nov. 13 Interested families are invited to attend the Districtwide African American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) meeting/College Readiness Night at 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13 at El Dorado Middle School at 1750 West. St. in Concord. The meeting will feature presentations on how students of all ages can prepare for both college and careers. It will provide an opportunity to connect as a community and strengthen our collective commitment to supporting African-American students across MDUSD. Families are essential partners in creating school cultures where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed. All are welcome. For more information, contact Family Engagement Coordinator Dr. Lamont Francies at franciesL@mdusd.org. MDUSD is accepting 2026-27 Teacher of the Year Nominations through Nov. 18 MDUSD invites District staff, students, parents/guardians and community members to nominate a teacher for the 2026-27 MDUSD and Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year. Nominations are due by 12 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. Candidates must have a minimum of 8 years of teaching experience to move forward to the County Office of Education competition. Click here for the nomination form in English. Click here for the nomination form in Spanish . The District hopes to receive at least one nomination from each school recognizing classroom teachers who have demonstrated a passion for teaching, an ability to differentiate instruction to meet students' needs, and teachers who connect with and support their school community. Two teachers will represent the District in the County competition.  Teacher Residency Grant Program with St. Mary’s College of CA information night is Nov. 18 MDUSD, in collaboration with St. Mary’s College of California, is excited to enter the second year of our Teacher Residency Grant Program for the 2026–27 school year. This program offers an exceptional opportunity for aspiring teachers pursuing a Multiple Subject, Single Subject (Math or Science), or Education Specialist (Mild/Moderate Support Needs) preliminary credential. As a Teacher Resident, you will be placed in an MDUSD classroom, learning alongside an experienced mentor teacher. Through this hands-on experience, you’ll develop skills in lesson planning, classroom management, instructional strategies, and student support—all while earning your credential through St. Mary’s College of California. Additional benefits include: tuition stipend, individualized mentorship, guaranteed substitute teaching opportunities, and priority consideration for teaching positions within MDUSD. If you’re passionate about making a difference and ready to begin your teaching career with strong mentorship and real-world classroom experience, we invite you to attend the upcoming information session, being held virtually from 4-5 p.m. Nov. 18. Register here . For questions, contact Christina Nelson at nelsonc@mdusd.org. Student News   Concord HS Scare Away Hunger campaign collects more than 12,030 pounds of food & $4,340! Last Friday, on Halloween, over 100 Concord High students participated in the school's 15th Annual Scare Away Hunger event — and the results were incredible, said teacher Azeema Yahya, who coordinated the event. "Together, they collected 12,030 pounds of food, $889 in cash donations, and $3,451 through their online fundraiser for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. That’s a total of 18,705 meals made possible for our local community!" The students are still collecting canned goods and monetary donations through next week (from 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. through Friday, Nov. 14) — every bit helps! You can: Drop off canned goods in the Food Bank bin outside the main office, or Donate online through this link: https://www.foodbankccs.org/events.../scare-away-hunger/ "During a time when so many families are facing food insecurity, it truly warms my heart to see our students step up in such a big way and our community respond with so much generosity," Yahya said. "I also wanted to shout out all the teachers who volunteered and gave up their Friday night; so thank you to Becca Dell, Andrew Francis, Ivan Orona, Anthony West, Felicia Yu, Megan Coddington, Vincent Salazar, Shannon Carr, and Nichole Hackett (and her entire family!). Thank you for helping us continue to make a difference! " Northgate High art students enter design competition that blends visual art and music Northgate HS art students designed a custom Crosley Cruiser record player case reflecting the theme of "Band Together," above, and created a reel demonstrating the process they used in creating their finished project (below). Art students at Northgate HS entered a design competition celebrating creativity and collaboration through art and music, led by teacher Carolyn Moore. Students designed a custom Crosley Cruiser record player case reflecting the theme of "Band Together," emphasizing music and unity. Although voting ended today, they are hoping they will be named the Region 1 finalist so they can go onto the second round of the competition. They created a reel demonstrating the process they used in creating their project. Their statement about the project said, in part: "Just like music connects people with different sounds and stories, this project brought together students with all kinds of artistic styles. We had painters, illustrators, and ceramicists — each with a totally different vision...Through group discussions, we figured out how to blend everything into one design that made sense. Using transfer paper drawings, we layered our ideas until they visually clicked — like a remix of styles that flow together. We collaborated with Advanced Ceramics students to add small 3D details...When the player opens, color bursts out — symbolizing how music brings life and unity. Inside, we painted teens hanging out at a record store...A variety of students truly banded together — combining their ideas into one piece that shows how creativity and music unite us all." MDUSD Director of College and Career Readiness Heather Fontanilla praised their "amazing project," saying it "reflects those work readiness skills we are always talking about -- collaboration, creative problem solving, and communication." More  information is here . Foothill MS student Marcus Lee wins Juvenile Boys Free Skate in the 2026 Pacific Coast Sectional Foothill MS Principal Crystal Stull is proud to announce that student Marcus Lee is an accomplished figure skater! Marcus won the 2026 Pacific Coast Sectional Juvenile Boys Free Skate competition and will advance to the “National Development Team” in U.S. Figure Skating! You can watch a video of Marcus’ winning performance here . Congrats! Ygnacio Valley High’s varsity football team completes Work Readiness Workshops MDUSD's College & Career Readiness Department is thrilled to celebrate the Ygnacio Valley High School Varsity Football team for reaching a remarkable milestone as the first athletic program in the District to complete a full series Work Readiness Workshops, consisting of 8 hours of training, said Isiah Harper, Career Pathways Work-Based Learning Coordinator, who led the sessions. "These engaging sessions highlight the team’s commitment to building essential workplace skills and preparing for success beyond the field," Harper said. "This accomplishment reflects their dedication to personal growth and sets an inspiring example for other athletic programs across the district!" Harper set as a goal for the year working with sports teams in implementing the District's Work Readiness Workshops, said Heather Fontanilla, MDUSD's Director of College and Career Readiness. Students who complete the full 8 hours receive a certification in work readiness. Workshops topics include career exploration, time management, professionalism, and resume development. "This is a great example of how MDUSD is working to ensure all students graduate college and career ready," Fontanilla said. Other athletic teams interested in completing the workshops are encouraged to email Harper at harperi@mdusd.org.   School News Olympic and Crossroads high school students and staff enjoy festive fall activities  Last week, the Olympic and Crossroads high school campuses were alive with spirit, and maybe a few friendly ghosts, as students and staff celebrated a frightfully fun Halloween week, said Olympic HS Principal Courtney Lyon. "From themed spirit days to a thriller of a haunted house and festive pumpkin painting parties, the campus was buzzing with energy and creativity," she said. Olympic HS student Zada Linville said, "I enjoyed the haunted house because it was really fun to be able to do that with friends. I also liked watching staff and students dress up. It made the week enjoyable for everyone." On Friday, some of the district’s youngest Crossroads students wore their costumes and went door-to-door trick-or-treating through Olympic’s offices and classrooms, which is a beloved annual tradition by all and eagerly anticipated each year. Afterwards, Olympic scholars joined in the fun for a little trick-or-treating of their own - because who says you can ever be too old for candy? Even Dr. Clark got into the spirit, joining District Administrators Christina Filios and Chris Clausen to brave the haunted house, and they definitely had a few jump scares along the way. The week wrapped up with smiles, laughter, and plenty of sweet treats, sending our Olympic and Crossroads communities off into a spirited Halloween weekend, Lyon added.  "It’s truly special to see some of MDUSD’s youngest and oldest scholars come together for lighthearted fun that feels safe, inclusive, and full of joy," Lyon said. "School should absolutely be a place where students work hard, but also where they celebrate the community we’ve built together. Our Wellness teams and support staff went above and beyond to make this an extra-special week for students of all ages." Crossroads Administrator Coleen Martin added: "Every year, the Olympic school community opens its doors and its hearts to welcome our Crossroads students and their little ones for trick-or-treating. What they create is more than a fun Halloween tradition — it's a safe, loving space where our babies can experience the joy, wonder, and warmth of childhood. Their kindness, smiles, and generosity remind us that our shared campus is truly a gift. We thank them for wrapping our young families in community and showing them what it means to belong."  Check out the School Social Media Highlights below to see more photos from their "spooky week!" Mountain View Elementary students take a “selfie from space” Mountain View Elementary 3rd grade teacher Brian Prentiss and his students recently took a "selfie in space!"   Mark Rober, a rocket scientist turned Youtuber, launched a satellite named SatGus into space, Prentiss said. "His goal was for people to take selfies in space with where they were located on Earth in the background," Prentiss explained. "It is a little hard to tell, but Mountain View is to the left of the picture. My students were really excited to learn how difficult it is to get something into space and to think like an engineer. Mark Rober also created Crunch Labs, a company that creates engineering boxes for students to learn to think like an engineer while building awesome gadgets." Here is the video  of Rober launching the satellite. Here is the website to take your own selfie in space. Pleasant Hill Middle School 8th-grade trip to Levi’s Stadium for STEM educational experience This month, Pleasant Hill Middle School 8th graders got to visit Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara for an amazing STEM educational experience and stadium tour, said Counselor Lily Moore. "While on the field trip, students got to work in the only NFL stadium educational center while utilizing hands-on learning through applying physics and statistics to football," she said. "The tour guides led the students through the stadium’s history museum, hall of fame, and locker room. Students then got to enjoy some time together overlooking the stadium while seeing it get ready for its upcoming game along with prepping for the World Cup and Super Bowl. Pleasant Hill Middle had a great time learning about the stadium and STEM, rooting for their favorite team together, and enjoying community. They look forward to more experiences like this one and hope to be back again soon!" Moore is also happy to share that she and the school team have launched a new X account, where you can follow more news from Pleasant Hill MS @PlhmsSocial  Check out the School Social Media Highlights below to see what the school's Community Service Club has been doing! Walnut Acres Elementary students enjoy Halloween Parade on their newly paved track The Walnut Acres Elementary community was pleased to celebrate its new track, which was paved by the District over the Fall break, said Parent Faculty Club member Brian Caughell. The school held a grand opening ceremony complete with a ribbon-cutting with PFC President Amy Thompson and Principal Nicole Berglund, and the rest of the PFC executive team looking on behind them.  Then, students happily paraded around the track in their Halloween costumes. Caughill said the PFC has been working on getting the paving done for years in collaboration with the facilities team.  Mt. Diablo Adult Education hosts the Contra Costa Central Career Expo Rubicon Programs Workforce Director Vi Ngo (l-r) stands with Rubicon Programs Business Services Manager Gloribel Pastrana, County Supervisor Shanelle Scales-Preston's Chief of Staff Dr. David Fraser, Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County Business Services Representative Charles Brown III, Program Manager of the Adult and Dislocated Worker program at the Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County Verneda Clapp, and Mt. Diablo Adult Education and Career Director Vittoria Abbate (above left). Mt. Diablo Adult Education staff speaks to expo participants (above right). Mt. Diablo Adult Education (MDAE) is proud to share that it hosted the Contra Costa Inaugural "Fair Chance Career Expo" on October 30th. "Adult education students and community members attended the expo and were able to connect with over 35 'fair chance' employers and resource providers," said Andrea Murphy, MDAE's CTE Business Programs & Financial Aid/Student Services Coordinator. "A fair chance employer provides justice-involved individuals a more equitable opportunity for employment by focusing on an applicant's qualifications and delaying background checks until after a conditional job offer. All job seekers were welcome at the career expo, which was well-attended and a big success." Staff News Riverview MS mourns the loss of EJ Barna, a valued afterschool program staff member It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of EJ Barna, a beloved member of our Riverview Middle School After School Program staff. EJ was deeply involved in our school community and made a positive impact on the students he worked with and the colleagues he supported. During this incredibly difficult time, we extend our heartfelt condolences to EJ's family and loved ones. Our thoughts are with them, and with all who are mourning his loss. School Social Media Highlights Bel Air Elem., Meadow Homes Elem., Robert Shearer Preschool and Shore Acres Elem. MDUSD preschool and elementary students enjoyed Halloween and fall celebrations, and also learned important lessons in October. Recent social media highlights include: Bel Air Elementary students had a great time in their Halloween Parade, Meadow Homes Elementary students had a wonderful time at the Fall Festival planned by their teachers, Robert Shearer Preschool students had Halloween fun, and Shore Acres Elementary students had conversations and participated in lunchtime and spirit week activities to promote empathy and kindness as part of National Bullying Prevention Month in October!   Diablo View, Pleasant Hill, Riverview and Sequoia middle schools MDUSD middle school students have been participating in a variety of outdoor activities together. Recent social media highlights include: A Red Ribbon Chalk Art Contest at Diablo View MS ; the Pleasant Hill MS Community Service Club cleaning up the campus and gardening; Riverview MS students learning about science on a field trip to the Exploratorium; and Sequoia MS students dressing up in stylish Halloween costumes! College Park, Mt. Diablo, Northgate and Olympic HS MDUSD high school students have been learning and having fun. Recent social media highlights include: College Park HS students dressing up in eye-catching Halloween costumes, Mt. Diablo HS students and staff hosting a Wellness Fair, Northgate HS girls wrestler Symone Jewell visiting the Olympic Training Center in Colorado to learn from Olympic and World Team coaches and train with national and international level partners before wrestling season kicks off; and Spooky Week photos from Olympic HS ! Staff Social Media Highlights Sequoia MS, Westwood Elementary, Valley View MS, Valle Verde Elementary and MDUSD HR MDUSD staff members got into the holiday spirit for Halloween and Dia de los Muertos. Social media highlights include: Sequoia MS staff  Halloween costumes; Westwood Elementary  Bee and Bee-Catcher office staff costumes; Valley View MS Spanish teacher Ms. Encisco and her students celebrating Día de los Muertos with pan de muerto and hot chocolate, an ofrenda and Spanish vocabulary focused on family, memory and tradition; Valle Verde Elementary staff  Halloween costumes; and MDUSD’s HR Department  decorating as the “HR Farms” Harvest Festival - planting the seeds of education - with hay, corn, gourds and pumpkins donated by Concord Feed! Important Dates Nov. 8: " Cafecito Con Las Consejeras " (Coffee with the Counselors): A Chat with Latina Counselors, from 10 a.m. to noon in the Shore Acres Elem. Cafeteria Nov. 10, and Nov. 12-14: Parent/Caregiver Teacher  Conferences (Grades TK-5)  Nov. 11:  Veterans Day Holiday . Schools and District Offices closed Nov. 12: Regular District Governing Board  meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom (Special meeting at 5:45 p.m.) Nov. 13:  Experience Dyslexia event from 4-6 p.m. Nov. 13 at the District Office in Concord,  Dual Enrollment Parent Night  from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center or virtually, Districtwide AAPAC meeting at 6 p.m. at El Dorado MS (See District News above) Nov. 18 : District Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord; Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC)  meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Nov. 20 : Measure J Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) meeting at 5 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom; District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC)  meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center  Nov. 24-28 :  Thanksgiving Recess (Schools closed all week; District Offices open to the public Nov. 24-25; limited staff available via email and phone Nov. 26; closed Nov. 27-28) The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Nov 08 2025

Friday Letter - October 31, 2025

OCTOBER 31, 2025 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 8 NO. 13 Dear MDUSD Community, I cannot believe that we are moving into November. We are proud to highlight the ways our schools and community are coming together to encourage students, families, and one another. This week, we shine a spotlight on our  Experience Dyslexia event , where families and staff participated in simulations and conversations to better understand the challenges of Dyslexia. The event also provided information about our new K-2 reading screeners, which are now being used across MDUSD to identify and support young students with reading difficulties. In honor of National Homeless Youth Awareness Month and National Native American Heritage Month in November, our Board of Education passed resolutions recognizing the importance of visibility, support, and understanding for our students and families. As part of our commitment to raising awareness, t he SOAR program has started a donation drive and is encouraging staff and community members to wear green on Fridays throughout November  to show solidarity with youth experiencing homelessness . We are also excited to share news from  Mt. Diablo High School, where a generous donation from the Las Vegas Raiders is helping restore the football field . The timing is perfect, as MDHS hosts its Homecoming game this Friday night against Ygnacio Valley High School. In student news, we celebrate Ygnacio Valley High newcomer students  who supported Red Ribbon Week by distributing materials to staff while learning more about the importance of drug and alcohol prevention. At  Oak Grove Middle School, eight 7th-grade Accelerated Math students represented MDUSD at the Stanford Middle School Math Tournament , working together to solve complex problems. At  College Park High School, we are proud to recognize a Suicide Prevention Awareness activity organized by the ASB Leadership students. During lunch, students wrote positive, encouraging messages on a banner for all to see. What an important reminder of the strength of kindness and positive connection. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to the excellence of our students. Dr. Adam Clark Spotlight "Experience Dyslexia" event shows challenges of dyslexia, includes info on K-2 screener MDUSD Chief of Pupil Services and Special Education Wendi Aghily explains dyslexia and the District's K-12 screener (above left). A parent tries to draw a star while looking in a mirror to see her hand moving a pencil under a cardboard tent to better understand Dyslexia challenges (above right).   In recognition of  Dyslexia Awareness Month in October , MDUSD is holding two "Experience Dyslexia" events to give participants the opportunity to better understand the challenges that people with dyslexia face every day. In addition, the events describe the District's reading curriculum and screener for reading difficulties in grades K-2, as well as ongoing monitoring and support through grade 12 for those who need accommodations such as audio books to help them work at grade level while learning to read. During the first event on Tuesday, MDUSD's Chief of Pupil Services and Special Education Wendi Aghily explained dyslexia during a presentation called "Identifying Dyslexia & Effective Reading Intervention s." She noted that the state is now requiring districts to screen students for reading difficulties, which can identify issues with hearing and processing what they hear. Students with auditory dyslexia have trouble sounding out words, she said. Of the roughly 15% of students in MDUSD who have Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) through special education, about 6-7% are identified with a print reading disability, Aghily said. "Our goal is to get kids reading to the maximum ability we can, understanding that not everybody loves reading - and that's OK," she said. One of the reasons dyslexic students may not enjoy reading is because it is exhausting for them to try to decode letters, sound out words, read fluently and comprehend the meaning at the same time, she explained. In MDUSD, students are assessed three times per year in reading so teachers can monitor their progress. Results of the screening tests, which are administered in January, will be available in February. If students are identified as being at risk for reading difficulties, staff will meet to discuss interventions and may refer the student for a special education assessment, Aghily said. However, the district does not diagnose dyslexia, since that is a medical diagnosis.  After the presentation, parents and others who attended participated in simulations intended to help them understand the immense effort and focus that students with dyslexia need to complete tasks that may be easy for those without dyslexia, as well as the frustration and helplessness they may feel when they cannot complete classwork or homework as quickly as their peers. In the simulations, special education staff members played the roles of teachers giving assignments to students with time limitations. Participants played the roles of students, trying to accomplish tasks while attempting to overcome barriers that made it difficult to process the information they were given. The simulations included: trying to read unfamiliar symbols and decode their meanings based on context and repetition in texts,   trying to write down information dictated by the teacher while significant background noise makes it difficult to hear instructions, trying to draw a star shape while looking in a mirror to watch their hands moving their pencils under a cardboard tent, trying to write letters and unfamiliar symbols with non-dominant hands, taking a spelling test three times, once with the audio simulating hearing loss, once with low level sound, and finally with some amplification simulating a hearing aid.  After each simulation, participants talked about how they felt when they were unable to easily complete the assignments. Many said they felt frustrated and anxious. "I just spaced out," said one parent. "I felt lost," said another. One participant felt so overwhelmed in the simulations with many people talking at the same time and loud background noises that he didn't ever pick up his pencil, said Special Education Administrator Bryan Cassin, who led that activity. He noted that students in these situations often cope by looking at other students' papers to copy their work, becoming disengaged, or acting out. With early intervention, he said, students can transition to assistive technology that can help them process information. At the end of the event, participants came together to debrief. "Hopefully, you've gotten some empathy and some understanding," Aghily said to the parents whose children have reading difficulties. "When your kids say they're tired, they're not kidding." After the event, Holbrook Language Academy Resource Teacher Rosie Medina, who participated in the simulations, said she was glad she came and got useful information that she will share with parents at her school. "Parents want more information," she said. El Monte Elementary parent Giusy Dileo said more teachers should experience these simulations. And Valley View MS parent Shanna Santana she the event helped her empathize with her son. "It helps me understand what he's going through," she said. "I'm going to go home and give him a hug."  The second “Experience Dyslexia” event will be held from 4-6 p.m. Nov. 13 at the District Office, 1936 Carlotta Drive in Concord.   It will include updates on the Universal Screener for students at risk of reading difficulties for all students in grades K-2. MDUSD parents, staff and community members are invited to attend.  Registration is required here . (This will be the same program that was presented on Oct. 28th.) District News November is National Native American Heritage and National Homeless Youth Awareness month On Oct. 22, 2025, the MDUSD Board adopted resolutions designating November as: National Native American Heritage Month National Homeless Youth Awareness Month Our  SOAR (Support Office for Access & Resources) Department encourages staff, families and community members to wear green on Fridays in November to shine a light on National Homeless Youth Awareness Month.  SOAR has also begun its annual donation drive. Donations are requested through Jan. 30th to provide students with essential resources needed to thrive in school.  See flyer for details. Food Resources in Contra Costa County The federal shutdown is having an adverse impact on Nutrition programs, including SNAP. Click here for a list of food resources for families within Contra Costa County. Click here for a map of free food distribution locations searchable by address or zip code. Click here for a list of nearby food distribution locations in English.  Click here for the list in Spanish .  Donate to the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano is accepting donations from community members who would like to donate food or money to help those in need.  Click here for more information .  Concord HS Scare Away Hunger Campaign is collecting Food Bank donations Oct. 31 and Nov. 3-7 This year marks the 15th Annual Scare Away Hunger campaign at Concord HS, where students go trick-or-treating for canned goods or monetary donations to support the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. Concord High is proud to be part of this community tradition to help fight hunger! With the federal shutdown impacting SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, many local families are facing increased food insecurity. Most-needed items include canned proteins (tuna, chicken, beans), peanut butter, pasta, rice, canned fruits and vegetables, and cereal. How to Donate: Drop off canned goods at Concord High School on Halloween night (October 31) from 5–8:30 p.m. in the parking lot or the following week (Nov. 3-7) from 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. in the front office.  Donate online here: https://www.foodbankccs.org/events-promotions/scare-away-hunger/ Every can and every dollar helps local families in need. Thank you to Concord HS for continuing this valuable community service project this year! Mt. Diablo HS football field restored with the aid of $250,000 from Las Vegas Raiders The Mt. Diablo High School football team will play its next home game on a fully restored home field that has been returned to its previous state-of-the-art condition less than two months after a destructive fire that was started by illegal fireworks melted the artificial turf, forcing the Red Devils to play their first three home games off site. The team and Mt. Diablo Unified School District are deeply grateful to the Las Vegas Raiders, who pledged a donation of $250,000 to assist with the cost of restoring the field, after learning of the fire and needed repairs. “As a lifelong Raiders fan and past season ticket holder, I couldn’t be more pleased with their generous contribution,” said MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark. “The Mt. Diablo High School student body, alumni and community deserve a learning environment that they can be proud of. With the help of Mark Davis, owner of the Raiders, we have restored the field to its original state!” Although the turf was repaired last month, the Mt. Diablo High School logo was installed more recently this month, because it had to be special-ordered. Since that installation, the team has played several “away” games. The team is excited to play on its completely restored home field for its “Homecoming” game at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 31, as it hosts cross-town MDUSD competitors, the Ygnacio Valley High School Wolves. The Raiders’ donation will cover the cost of the insurance deductible, which the District would have had to pay out of its own funds toward the total repair costs of nearly $350,000. Elementary Parent/Caregiver - Teacher Conferences begin next week for grades TK-5 MDUSD Elementary Parent/Caregiver - Teacher Conferences for students in grades TK-5 will take place: Nov. 3-7 Nov. 10 Nov. 12-14 During this time, students will be released early to allow time for the conferences after school. Schools will be closed on Nov. 11 for the Veterans Day Holiday . The complete 2025-26 MDUSD Academic Calendar is here .    Board Briefs: Board Subcommittee to meet with Martinez City Schools Subcommittee An MDUSD Board Subcommittee consisting of Vice President Debra Mason and Trustee Keisha Nzewi will hold a Joint Meeting with Martinez City Council School Liaisons at 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 3 in the District Office Boardroom  at 1936 Carlotta Drive in Concord.  Topics to be discussed are:  Safe Routes to Schools 511 Contra Costa's Walk'N Roll Program The agenda will be posted here  by 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31.   The meeting will be live streamed and recorded.  Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark's Weekly Organizational Update to the Board, which includes detailed District operations reports from Department leaders, is here . An archive of past reports is here . MDUSD and Mt. Diablo Education Association (MDEA) Reach Tentative Agreement On Oct. 24, 2025, MDUSD's Chief of Human Resources Ryan Sheehy announced that the Mt. Diablo Unified School District (MDUSD) has reached a tentative agreement with the Mt. Diablo Education Association (MDEA) on a new three-year contract covering the 2025-26 through the 2027-28 school years. The  complete announcement is here . MDUSD is accepting 2026-27 Teacher of the Year Nominations through Nov. 18 MDUSD invites District staff, students, parents/guardians and community members to nominate a teacher for the 2026-27 MDUSD and Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year. Nominations are due by 12 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. Candidates must have a minimum of 8 years of teaching experience to move forward to the County Office of Education competition. Click here for the nomination form in English . Click here for the nomination form in Spanish . The District hopes to receive at least one nomination from each school recognizing classroom teachers who have demonstrated a passion for teaching, an ability to differentiate instruction to meet students' needs, and teachers who connect with and support their school community. Two teachers will represent the District in the County competition. "Cafecito Con Las Consejeras" (Coffee with the counselors) is Saturday, Nov. 8 MDUSD's next "Cafecito Con Las Consejeras" (Coffee with the Counselors): A Chat with Latina Counselors, is from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 8 in the Shore Acres Elem. Cafeteria at 351 Marina Road in Bay Point. Topics will include: academic success, colleges & universities, and career exploration. RSVP here .  For more information, contact Ms. Angela Ordaz at ordaz@mdusd.org or (925) 682-8000 x85671, Ms. Leidi Arias at ariasl@mdusd.org or (925) 682-4030 x3406, Ms. Marcie Torres at torresmm@mdusd.org or (925) 682-8000 x6418, or Ms. Yaretzie Amaya at amayay@mdusd.org or (925) 682-4030 x3414. Hablamos Español. Instradistrict transfer window open through Nov. 10 for the 2025-26 school year From October 10 through November 10, 2025, MDUSD's Intradistrict Transfer Application is available for all schools, grades 1-12 and for Sequoia and Monte Gardens' elementary schools' Kindergarten.  This application is only for students living within the MDUSD boundaries who want to attend a school other than their school of residence. The transfer application links are now available on the  District website . The Intradistrict Transfer Application window for Kindergarteners (except Sequoia and Monte Gardens) will take place in Spring 2026  (February - March).  Dual Enrollment Parent Night is Thursday, Nov. 13 virtually and at Willow Creek Center MDUSD invites parents/guardians to our Dual Enrollment Parent Night from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13 at Willow Creek Center in Concord. Parents can also  attend this event virtually here . See the flyers in English and Spanish or visit the MDUSD Early College Credit web page  for more information. Email Salinastognettij@mdusd.org if you have questions. African American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) College Readiness Night is Nov. 13 Interested families are invited to attend the Districtwide African American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) meeting/College Readiness Night at 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13 at El Dorado Middle School at 1750 West. St. in Concord. The meeting will feature presentations on how students of all ages can prepare for both college and careers. It will provide an opportunity to connect as a community and strengthen our collective commitment to supporting African-American students across the MDUSD. Families are essential partners in creating school cultures where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed. All are welcome. For more information, contact Family Engagement Coordinator Dr. Lamont Francies at franciesL@mdusd.org. Student News  Ygnacio Valley HS newcomer students support Red Ribbon Week and learn about it Ygnacio Valley HS newcomer students worked on Friday, Oct. 24,  distributing pencils and flyers to teachers and students for  Red Ribbon Week .  "Many of our newcomers were not familiar with the meaning behind Red Ribbon Week, so this was a wonderful opportunity for them not only to collaborate while preparing the packages, but also to learn about its importance," said Community School Coordinator Marcela Sosa. "Through this activity, students helped raise awareness about the dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use, promoting prevention and education across our school community." Oak Grove MS Accelerated Math students participate in Stanford MS Math Meet Oak Grove MS math teacher Jeffrey Juico (right) stands with his 7th-grade Accelerated Math students who participated in the Stanford MS Math Mini Meet (above). The students worked in two teams of four to solve puzzles and math problems (below).  Eight Oak Grove MS 7th-grade Accelerated Math students participated in the Stanford Middle School Math Mini Meet Tournament last weekend, called the SM3, which is run entirely by Stanford students, said teacher Jeffrey Juico. It is one of the largest university-run math contests, with over 2000 participants globally in 2025. They are proudly supported by the Stanford Undergraduate Mathematics Organization (SUMO) and the Stanford Department of Mathematics. This year they hosted the first Stanford Mini Math Meet tournament for middle school students. The SM3 is designed to make math competitions accessible and enjoyable. Teams of three or four students take part in a Treelay (Quiz relay) and a Puzzle Hunt (with the Coach). The students represented the Oak Grove MS Wildcats on two teams, "Wildcats Accel" and "Wildcats Accel 2.0," Juico said. "I took the team for them to experience competition outside the school and meet other students from all over California." In fast-paced Treelay Round, students were asked 40 questions in 40 minutes, racing through the problems utilizing various "power ups" (opportunities to earn extra points) sprinkled throughout. Teams start out with five questions and for each correct answer they hand in, they get another question. Teams get three attempts for each question. Once the three attempts are used up, the team receives another problem.  The Puzzlehunt was a series of puzzles. Teams race outdoors to solve a variety of unique puzzles across Stanford's campus. "Our school got free registration because Stanford wants to be inclusive of all schools, especially low income and historically underrepresented students," Juico said, adding that parents also came along to support their students. "The students enjoyed the experience and can't wait to do these again next year."  Juico also plans to bring his students to a math tournament at UC Berkeley next year. Go, Wildcats! School News College Park HS Leadership students organize Suicide Prevention Awareness activity  College Park HS ASB Leadership students (above left) partnered with Social Work Specialist Marcela Adema and CPHS Counselor Morgan Gillette (above right) to host a Suicide Prevention Awareness activity during lunch at College Park High School, said Jessica Pozos, Assistant Director of Mental Health Programs for Special Education and Student Services. "Students and staff showed incredible support by writing notes of encouragement to their peers on colorful post-its, which were displayed on an 'Are You OK?' banner." In addition, suicide support resources and fidgets were made available to promote mental health and well-being, Pozos added. "It was a powerful turnout and a meaningful show of community care!" School Social Media Highlights Valle Verde, Delta View, Gregory Gardens and Walnut Acres elementary schools MDUSD elementary schools have hosted a variety of activities. Recent social media highlights include: While schools were closed on Monday for a Teacher In-Service Day, a squirrel enjoyed the peace and quiet at Valle Verde Elementary ; Delta View Elementary Book Club students decorated "book character” pumpkins; Gregory Gardens Elementary  celebrated its first “Gator Spotlight Awards” recognizing hard work, character and Gator pride; and Walnut Acres Elementary kindergartners  learned about firefighting from local firefighters! Diablo View MS, Sequoia MS, Mt. Diablo HS and Ygnacio. Valley HS MDUSD middle and high school students have been participating in fun and educational activities together. Recent social media highlights include: Diablo View MS students  had fun at their Fall Fest; Sequoia MS Girls Flag Football team celebrates its championship win; Mt. Diablo HS students help out at the Concord PD "Trunk or Treat" event; and Ygnacio Valley HS  robotics, engineering and Interact Club students enjoyed a campus "Rotary Means Business" event. Staff Social Media Highlights: Teacher In-Service Day Walnut Acres Elem., Sequoia MS, Valley View MS, Student Services & MLL, CSAs, CSCs MDUSD teachers and other staff members were busy on the Teacher In-Service Day on Monday, meeting for Professional Development Training. Social Media Highlights include: Walnut Acres Elementary teachers  created pumpkins to represent their group's personalities and who they are as educators; Sequoia MS teachers enjoyed learning, collaborating and getting inspired; Valley View MS teachers discussed AVID skills across all subjects, including a school-wide focus note-taking activities; and MDUSD's Community Service Assistants and Community School Coordinators met with Student Services & the Multilingual Education Dept. to recognize their vital roles in supporting our students and school communities! Community News County  Surrogate Parent Training Program seeks volunteers to advocate for students when no parent or guardian is available The Contra Costa County Office of Education is excited to announce its upcoming  Education Surrogate Parent Program Training , designed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to serve as educational decision-makers for students who do not have a parent or guardian available.  "This role is vital in ensuring every student receives the support and advocacy they deserve," said Gina Bills, County Education Liaison for Youth Services.  Surrogate parents attend meetings, advocate for students' rights, and help ensure the student receives the support they need to succeed. Register for training  via Zoom from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5 and Wednesday, Nov. 12 .    Ygnacio Valley HS Community Service Assistant to speak at Project Connect Event The Family Justice Center is hosting a Project. Connect event that will focus on "How to Raise Your Children in the American School System," featuring guest speaker Azam Rasuli, the Community Service Assistant at Ygnacio Valley High School. It will take place at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 11 at 2151 Salvio Street, Ste. 201 in Concord.  Rasuli will discuss: the Do’s and Don’ts and navigating your child’s education in the U.S. Participants will learn: How to support your child academically and socially Common mistakes parents make and how to avoid them. Tips for helping your child succeed in school For more information, email Rasuli at rasulia@mdusd.org Important Dates Nov. 3-14 : Parent/Caregiver Teacher  Conferences (Grades TK-5) (See District News above) Nov. 3 : MDUSD Board Subcommittee  Joint Meeting with Martinez City Council School Liaisons at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom (See Board Briefs under District News above) Nov. 5: Building Trades Parents Night from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Concord HS ( Registration is full) Nov. 8 : " Cafecito Con Las Consejeras " (Coffee with the Counselors): A Chat with Latina Counselors, from 10 a.m. to noon in the Shore Acres Elem. Cafeteria Nov. 11: Veterans Day Holiday. Schools and District Offices closed Nov. 12:  District Governing Board  meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Nov. 13: Experience Dyslexia event from 4-6 p.m. Nov. 13 at the District Office in Concord,  Dual Enrollment Parent Night  from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center or virtually, Districtwide AAPAC meeting at 6 p.m. at El Dorado MS (See District News above) Nov. 18: District Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord; Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC)  meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Nov. 20 : Measure J Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) meeting at 5 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom; District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC)  meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions

Friday, Oct 31 2025

Friday Letter - October 24, 2025

OCTOBER 24, 2025 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 8 NO. 13 Dear MDUSD Community, Happy Friday! We’re excited to bring you another Friday Letter filled with celebrations and student success from across Mt. D. This week, we are showing off the “ Lights On Afterschool ” event held Thursday at Meadow Homes Elementary! Students, families and staff came together to showcase the fun happening in our Expanded Learning After-school Programs at 23 MDUSD schools. It was a reminder of how impactful after-school activities can be for our students. In District news, please remember that there will be no school on Monday, October 27, as it is a Teacher In-Service Day . We also had a huge turnout at our  annual College Fair last night at Ygnacio Valley High School . Take a look at some photos that capture the excitement and energy of the event. In student news, we're featuring the latest edition of  The Foundry at Olympic HS , a newsletter that highlights first-quarter achievements and learning experiences. These opportunities are helping students explore careers, and program coordinator and teacher Danya Townsend welcomes partnerships with local businesses and organizations looking to support young people. We’re also cheering on the  Mt. Diablo High School football team , who made headlines this week! All four Bay Area News Group sports reporters like their chances this Saturday at noon against Berean Christian! In school news, we’re proud to highlight a beautiful  garden mural at El Monte Elementary, revived through a collaboration between garden educator Marian Woodard and Pine Hollow 8th grader Anabelle Vollmer. This work of art reflects the high level of learning and creativity in our schools. At  Gregory Gardens Elementary, this week’s GatorFest featured something new and very special: a Sensory-Friendly hour to help make the event welcoming for all students, including those who benefit from a quieter, more supportive environment. The response was so positive that the school plans to expand this next year! Thank you for being a part of the MDUSD community. We hope you enjoy this week’s stories, and we wish you a restful weekend! Dr. Adam Clark Spotlight Lights on After-school event highlights MDUSD Expanded Learning after-school programs MDUSD CARES Expanded Learning after-school program students showcased cheer performances during the "Lights On Afterschool" event (above left). Parents and students looked at program displays (above center) and program booths for music (above right), math tutoring (below left) and robotics mentoring (below center) provided by Ygnacio Valley HS students to Oak Grove MS students, and Tysen Knight's Art Experience (below right). MDUSD's  C.A.R.E.S. (Collaborative for Academics, Recreation, & Enrichment for Students) Expanded Learning Program celebrated 25 years of support for District students during a "Lights On Afterschool" event on Oct. 23rd that highlighted the many activities available to about 3,000 students at 23 schools. The event included student performances showcasing cheer and cultural dances - as well as art, robotics, and sports. In addition, each program created a display board with photos spotlighting students engaged in gardens, STEM, homework help, clubs and other programs. Expanded Learning Administrator Cherie Gann said the annual event recognizes the importance of afterschool programs and the impact they have on our students - expanding and extending their learning and giving them a safe place to be after school. She said each individual site had its own celebration, then they all came together for the districtwide event to showcase their TK-12 programs.  Ygnacio Valley HS International Baccalaureate (IB) students Teresa Duran and Jakob Rihnavsky are Expanded Learning program interns at Oak Grove MS, where they tutor students in math. Teresa and Jakob said they enjoy working with middle school students to help their community and teach others. Oak Grove MS students Heidi Chiquillo and Ramiro Ochoa said they have fun participating in the afterschool program's activities, such as a "Breakout Box" that requires students to solve problems or puzzles, as well as the math tutoring they are receiving, which gives them a preview of what to expect in high school. Both said that they would like to be program tutors when they get to high school. Ygnacio Valley HS robotics club students Alexander Sanchez Cruz, Joseph Huerta Arias and Gabrielle Love also provide mentoring to OGMS students who participate in the FIRST Lego League competitions. They said they like to show younger students their options in high school, which can provide paths to future careers.    Three-year-old Melissa Urbano smiled as she tried out a drum at the Afterschool Music booth. Program operator Ozer Ozturk said the program will offer music and movement classes at Expanded Learning sites.  Artist Tysen Knight, who collaborates with students on art projects, said students worked on canvases decorated with lightbulbs and other creations they added during the event. Each canvas is signed on the back by the students and given to the program to display after it is completed. Tyson said he also teaches students to use "MoxieBox" kits to create art at afterschool program sites.  You can see more photos from the event in the School and Staff Social Media highlights below.  District News No school Mon., Oct. 27 for Teacher In-Service Day, Red Ribbon Week continues through Oct. 31 There will be  no school on Monday, October 27th for a Teacher In-Service Day . District Offices will be open. The MDUSD Board has declared Oct. 23-31, 2025  Red Ribbon Week and urges its students, parents/guardians, teachers, administrators, and employees to pledge ongoing support of the 2025 Red Ribbon Week Theme “Life is a Puzzle, Solve it Drug Free.” Experience Dyslexia Event is Oct. 28th and Nov. 13th at the District Office in Concord The District’s Special Education Dept. will host an “Experience Dyslexia” event from 7-9 p.m. Oct. 28 and from 4-6 p.m. Nov. 13 at the District Office, 1936 Carlotta Drive in Concord.  The free event will include updates on the Universal Screener for students at risk of reading difficulties for all students in grades K-2. MDUSD parents, staff and community members are invited to attend to learn more about this new program. Registration is required here. Board Briefs: Board hears test results presentation, amends policies At its Oct. 22 meeting, the MDUSD Board heard the Superintendent's Report on CAASPP (California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress) test results , and approved some policy changes, among other items. The complete agenda is here . Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark's Weekly Organizational Update to the Board, which includes detailed District operations reports from Department leaders, is here . An archive of past reports is here .  College Fair at Ygnacio Valley HS connects students and families to college reps MDUSD's 13th Annual College Fair at Ygnacio Valley HS on Thursday was a success, bringing together high school and adult school students and families from throughout the District to meet with representatives from more than 60 colleges and universities, as well as the Mt. Diablo Adult Education program and High School Career Pathways and Dual Enrollment programs. Ygnacio Valley HS Principal Peter Crutchfield thanked the volunteer coordinators and said it was a wonderful event that was truly appreciated by our students and families.  "We had a fantastic turnout, with students and families from across the district exploring college options," he said. "Hosting the College Fair at Ygnacio Valley High School has become a proud tradition, and it’s always inspiring to see our community come together to support students’ future goals." You can see more photos from the event in the Staff Social Media highlights below. Students can take Spring 2026 Dual Enrollment classes to earn College Credits in High School MDUSD is excited to announce that it is starting to recruit for Spring 2026 semester Dual Enrollment classes.  Dual enrollment allows high school students to take college-level courses while still in high school, earning both high school and college credit for those courses. These courses are offered through partnerships between MDUSD and Diablo Valley College (DVC). The benefits of dual enrollment are numerous: students can get a head start on their college education and potentially save time/money by completing college credits early. MDUSD’s dual enrollment program also helps students meet a certificate requirement or a degree requirement. Dual enrollment provides exposure to the rigor of college coursework and helps students transition more smoothly to higher education. Finally, students earning a C or higher in a CSU/UC transferable dual enrollment class will earn a GPA boost for that class – similar to an AP or honors class. Participating in this program demonstrates academic ambition, preparedness, and long term goal setting. Overall this program offers an opportunity for students to challenge themselves, reduce future college costs, and accelerate their educational journey.  MDUSD has a variety of dual enrollment classes for Spring semester. While they are offered on different campuses, they are open to students across the district – please note that students are responsible for getting themselves to the classes as MDUSD does not provide transportation. Look at our course schedules below for days, times, and course details:  High Schools and Course Types   Concord High School : College & Career Mt. Diablo High School : Diamante Scholars, Engineering, Hospitality, Public Health, and Sociology. Ygnacio Valley High School : College & Career, Early Childhood Education, Engineering Technology, and Sociology Northgate High School : Sports Medicine MDUSD’s College & Career Readiness Dual Enrollment Team will be visiting high school sites starting Oct. 28 to talk to students about these opportunities.  If students are interested in taking a course, please fill out our  Spring 2026 Dual Enrollment form so we can support students through the dual enrollment process.  For more information, please contact Jorge Salinas-Tognetti  ( salinastognettij@mdusd.org ) and Amanda Witcak ( witczaka@mdusd.org ) or visit the MDUSD Early College Credit web page .  Dual Enrollment Parent Night is Thursday, Nov. 13 virtually and at Willow Creek Center Mt. Diablo Unified School District warmly invites parents and guardians to our Dual Enrollment Parent Night on Thursday, November 13th from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord. Parents can also attend this event virtually.  Here is the link .  This important informational evening will introduce families to the incredible opportunity for MDUSD high school students to take college-level courses —  at no cost  — while still in high school, earning both high school and transferrable college credit at the same time. During the event, families will learn how Dual Enrollment empowers students to get a head start on their college journey , explore potential career pathways early, and save money in tuition costs . We will walk you through how our courses work, our partnership with Diablo Valley College, the types of classes offered, and how students can start building a strong college transcript before graduating from high school. Our team will also cover important topics such as  eligibility, enrollment steps, support systems in place for students, and how participation can boost college admissions and career readiness . Parents will have the chance to ask questions and find out how to best support their student in early college credit.  We strongly encourage all high school families to attend and learn how this opportunity can make a meaningful difference in your student’s future. We look forward to seeing you there! Please email Salinastognettij@mdusd.org if you have any questions Intradistrict Transfer Window continues through Nov. 10, 2025 for 2026-27 From October 10 through November 10, 2025, MDUSD's Intradistrict Transfer Application is available for all schools, grades 1-12 and for Sequoia and Monte Gardens' elementary schools' Kindergarten.  This application is only for students living within the MDUSD boundaries who want to attend a school other than their school of residence. The transfer application links are now available on the District  website . The Intradistrict Transfer Application window for Kindergarteners (except Sequoia and Monte Gardens) will take place in Spring 2026  (February - March).  Building Trades Parents Night is Wednesday, Nov. 5 at Concord HS MDUSD is hosting a Building Trades Parents Night from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Nov. 5 at Concord HS, 4200 Concord Blvd., for MDUSD students and families to learn about apprenticeships/careers in the trades and how students can earn $32+ per hour right after high school. The free event is presented in partnership with the Torlakson Whole Child Institute and trades unions. Advance registration is required here . All registered attendees will receive a free dinner and the opportunity to participate in Q&A with union representatives, and hands-on activities. See flyers for details. "Cafecito Con Las Consejeras" (Coffee with the counselors) is Saturday, Nov. 8 in Bay Point MDUSD's next "Cafecito Con Las Consejeras" (Coffee with the Counselors): A Chat with Latina Counselors, is from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 8 in the Shore Acres Elem. Cafeteria at 351 Marina Road in Bay Point. Topics will include: academic success, colleges & universities, and career exploration. RSVP here . For more information, contact Ms. Angela Ordaz at ordaz@mdusd.org or (925) 682-8000 x85671, Ms. Leidi Arias at ariasl@mdusd.org or (925) 682-4030 x3406, Ms. Marcie Torres at torresmm@mdusd.org or (925) 682-8000 x6418, or Ms. Yaretzie Amaya at amayay@mdusd.org or (925) 682-4030 x3414. Hablamos Español.  Student News Olympic HS Foundry Career Pathway students participate in real-world learning experiences Olympic HS teacher Danya Townsend, who is the mentor and coordinator of the school's " The Foundry " career pathway program, is proud to share the Quarter 1 Summary for new program, which started in August. The newsletter summary (above and attached) highlights the program's continued progress and student achievements.  "This quarter, students have engaged in meaningful real-world learning experiences, including career fairs and resume development, entrepreneurial projects like our  Agua Fresca pop-up , and in-depth career research and financial literacy projects," Townsend said. "These opportunities continue to strengthen our mission of connecting students to the community, building career readiness, and fostering creativity and purpose in their learning." She is grateful to the support she and her students have received from the District and community for their growing program and invites anyone interested in partnering with them to contact her at townsendd@mdusd.org Mt. Diablo HS Football Team in the News: Bay Area News Group reporters predict team will win Each week during the High School Football Season, Bay Area News Group sports reporters predict which teams will win in upcoming hotly contested games. They base their predictions on stats such as wins and losses, as well as their own observations of the teams and how they are progressing. They also consult "the computer," which makes predictions about who will win and gives a predicted point spread. Often, the reporters disagree with each other and/or with the computer.  But this week, all four sports reporters - and the computer - predict that the Mt. Diablo HS Football team will beat Berean Christian HS when they play at Berean at noon Saturday, Oct. 25th. Both teams have records of 4-3.In their  video discussion of the game, reporter Christian Babcock noted that the Mt. Diablo team has overcome challenges related to its football field being burned, and having to play games on other fields while it was being repaired. "I look for them to continue to roll this week," he said. Reporter Darren Sabedra added that the computer picked Mt. Diablo to win big - 40-14! Go, Red Devils! School News El Monte Elem. Garden Educator teams up with Pine Hollow MS student to revive garden mural Marian Woodard, a dedicated garden educator, has long been an enthusiastic advocate for connecting students with nature, said El Monte 3rd grade teacher Stephanie Vollmer. Known for her love of all things green, Mrs. Woodard recently asked Pine Hollow MS student, Anabelle Vollmer, a talented 8th grade artist who is Mrs. Vollmer's daughter, to repaint one of the garden murals at El Monte Elementary (above).  "With her nurturing spirit, Mrs. Woodard sees gardening as more than just growing plants—it's about cultivating a love of learning and fostering a sense of calm and creativity," Mrs. Vollmer said. "The mural, now revived in vibrant colors, brings the garden to life. Through this simple act, the mural will serve as a reminder to all who see it as the importance of both nature and art in shaping a well-rounded, joyful life. In this way, Mrs. Woodard continues to share her love of gardening with her students and young members of the community, using every opportunity to inspire them as growing individuals. She is the perfect individual to lead Growing Healthy Kids at El Monte Elementary." Gregory Gardens adds "Sensory-Friendly" time to GatorFest for students who prefer calm space Students enjoy early "Sensory-Friendly Hour" (above left and below) before the crowds arrived  (above right) at the Gregory Gardens Elementary GatorFest. Making GatorFest Inclusive for Every Gator 💚💜 This year’s Gregory Gardens Elementary "GatorFest" on Wednesday, Oct. 22 was one of our biggest and most joyful community nights ever—but what made it truly special was the way our community came together to ensure every child had a chance to belong, said Principal Katie Koontz. "For the first time, we added a Sensory-Friendly Hour to help make GatorFest accessible for students who thrive in calmer environments with reduced crowds, lower noise, and extra support," she said. The response from families has been heartfelt and powerful: “The sensory portion of Gator Fest was fantastic! Having less crowd and lower music at the beginning of the event was appreciated… I definitely saw how Isaiah began to feel overwhelmed as the crowd grew along with the noise level. Isaiah loved the variety of games and was able to participate in them easily.” —  Isaiah’s Mom “It was such a clear reflection of your loving and intentional commitment to inclusion. The quieter environment, supportive staff, and access to the playground for quiet breaks helped our son self-regulate and engage without overwhelm… Thank you for modeling what an inclusive school community looks like in practice.” — Maverick’s Family “Though Lucas isn’t too sensitive to loud music, it was thoughtful and kind for the kids who are. It was also nice to have emptier lines earlier, as some neurodivergent kids get anxious waiting in line for a long time. Thank you for doing this!” —  Lucas’s Mom These messages remind us why inclusion matters—it’s not about doing something extra, it’s about doing what’s right so every student can participate with joy, comfort, and dignity, Koontz said. "We are proud of the care and collaboration that made this possible, and we’re already planning to expand the sensory area next year so even more families can benefit," she added. "Thank you to our community for always leading with heart." School Social Media Highlights Gregory Gardens, Mt. Diablo, Meadow Homes and Sun Terrace elementary schools MDUSD elementary students, families and staff have been enjoying time together. Recent social media highlights include: Gregory Gardens Elementary families celebrate Diwali; the Mt. Diablo Elementary Fall Fest included games, food, pumpkins and a petting zoo; Meadow Homes Elementary was proud to host the “Lights On Afterschool” Event; and Sun Terrace Elementary  families celebrated Halloween early with “Trunk or Treat.” Diablo View MS, Sequoia MS, Valley View MS and Oak Grove MS MDUSD middle and high school students have been enjoying a variety of activities. Recent social media highlights include: Diablo View MS students have a fun-filled Fall Fest; Sequoia MS Tobacco Use Prevention Education (TUPE) peer educators attended a training together; Valley View MS drama students present fantastic monologues; and Oak Grove MS TUPE Peer educators also had fun at their training! Northgate, Ygnacio Valley, Mt. Diablo and Olympic high schools MDUSD high school students have been enjoying a variety of fun and educational activities. Recent social meda highlights include: Northgate HS drama students celebrated their successful performance of "Carrie," Ygnacio Valley HS students celebrated Diwali with Mrs. Dhillon; Mt. Diablo HS celebrated its 1st Quarter Honor Roll students; and Olympic HS  students enjoyed a recent visit from their festive Joybound dog friends! Staff Social Media Highlights MDUSD Latina Consejeras, Walnut Acres Elementary, Ygnacio Valley HS and Career Pathways  MDUSD staff members have been getting out and about together for school events and field trips. Recent social media highlights include: MDUSD Latina Consejeras promote their Cafecitos (see District news above) at the Lights on Afterschool event; Walnut Acres Elementary 2nd grade teachers Rebecca Cowles, Cheryl Gerbacio and Staci Mierzwa loved exploring the Jelly Belly Factory and tasting the fun with their students; Ygnacio Valley HS Vice Principals Rimy Dhillon and Kevin Honey enjoyed the College Fair with Principal Peter Crutchfield; and CTE Program Coordinator for Allied Health Programs Lesley Garcia joined Career Pathways Counselors Amanda Witczak and Jorge Salinas-Tognetti at the College Fair!  Technology Integration Leaders (TILs): Hidden Valley Elem., Mountain View Elem., Oak Grove MS, Riverview MS & Valley View MS MDUSD is bringing back its Technology Integration Leader (TIL) highlights for 2025-26, featuring their answers to short questions, which give insights into their priorities and interests. The first TIL highlights of the year feature: Rebecca Campos at Hidden Valley Elementary ; Brian Prentiss at Mountain View Elementary ; Kathleen Dawson at Oak Grove MS : Mary Acebu at Riverview MS ; and Jennifer Martin at Valley View MS !  Important Dates Oct. 27 :  Teacher In-Service Day (No school, District Offices will be open) (See District News above) Oct. 28 : District Parent Advisory Committee (PAC)  meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord Nov. 3-14 :  Caregiver Conferences  (Grades TK-5) Nov. 5:  Building Trades Parents Night from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Concord HS (See District News above) Nov. 11:  Veterans Day Holiday . Schools and District Offices closed. Nov. 12: District Governing Board  meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Nov. 18: District Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord; Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC)  meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Nov. 20 : Measure J Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) meeting at 5 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom; District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC)  meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions

Saturday, Oct 25 2025

Friday Letter - October 17, 2025

OCTOBER 17, 2025 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 8 NO. 12 Dear MDUSD Community, Welcome back! I hope everyone had a restful and enjoyable Fall Break. On Monday we observed Indigenous Peoples Day! We celebrated the cultures and contributions of Indigenous communities across our nation. It is great to  have our students, staff, and families back! Fall is such an exciting time in MDUSD. This week’s Friday Letter highlights that energy, starting with a spotlight on the  Annual Career Education Fair hosted at Concord High School . It was an incredible event, full of hands-on experiences and conversations that showed our students just how many paths they can take towards their future after high school.. In District news, we’ll highlight our recent College and Career Update to the Board of Education , as well as the upcoming Trades Parent Night on November 5 . This night is a wonderful opportunity for families to explore high-demand, high-wage career pathways in the skilled trades. We also share important updates on the Budget Study Session , the release of CAASPP scores , and the generous  Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce donations supporting Concord High School’s Construction Pathway and Mt. Diablo High School’s Culinary Pathway .  We’re excited about  Saturday’s CARES Garden Academy Fall Fest, and the annual College Fair at Ygnacio Valley High School on Thursday, October 23. Both events will connect our families with resources and fun activities. This week’s social media highlights include photos and stories from the Career Education Fair, celebrations of our amazing coaches for National Coaches Day, shout-outs for our dedicated administrators, and a big hand to our Transportation and Maintenance & Operations Departments for expanding our Electric Vehicle fleet, a major step toward a greener and more sustainable MDUSD. Other highlights include: Health Pathway students from Mt. Diablo HS and Ygnacio Valley HS volunteer at Concord Emergency Preparedness Fair California Crunch "Farm to School" event at Meadow Homes Elementary Mt. Diablo Adult Education hosts Constitution Day, which MDHS multimedia students videotaped and photographed Mt. Diablo HS Transportation students participate in welding demonstration  led by Los Medanos College instructor  To our incredible students, committed staff, and supportive families, thank you! I’m proud to serve such a dynamic and caring community. Thank you, Dr. Adam Clark Spotlight Career Education Fair at Concord HS shows District students variety of options after graduation The Career Education Fair at Concord HS on Oct. 15 included booths from education organizations such as Mt. Diablo Adult Education's Dental Assistant program (above left), and Iron Workers union apprentice programs demonstrating welding (above center) and virtual high rise building construction (above right). More than 1,000 students from all District high schools had the opportunity to meet with representatives from 50 organizations offering training and career opportunities during the 8th annual Career Education Fair at Concord High School on Oct. 15th. The event was organized by CHS College and Career Advisor Sheila Bergum, in partnership with MDUSD's College & Career Readiness Department, to highlight the many options that students can pursue after graduation, which don't necessarily require 4-year college degrees, but offer training, high salaries, and excellent benefits. These included unions for carpenters, electricians, plumbers, iron workers and other trades that offer apprenticeship programs; Mt. Diablo Adult Education and community colleges; the U.S. military; local law enforcement; and public services agencies. "The purpose is to educate students on other alternative options to a four-year college education," Bergum said. "There are so many careers out there that don't necessarily require a 4-year degree as entry level possibilities." She said on-the-job training allows trades workers to earn a paycheck while they are learning new skills. The District's high school Career Pathways programs also help to expose students to a variety of career fields including healthcare, digital arts, engineering, culinary arts, and auto tech (see school news below). Students from other schools were bused to the fair and given time to browse the career booths, ask questions, and sign up for more information, along with Concord HS students. Concord HS senior Langton Akin said he enjoyed trying out welding for fun, but he was most interested in career opportunities at the  Contra Costa Water District . "They have engineer jobs," he said, explaining that he plans to major in engineering at Diablo Valley College (DVC), then transfer to a UC or CSU. Senior Natalie Ahrendt, who tried walking on a beam while wearing a virtual reality mask that simulated walking across a steel beam in a high-rise building under construction, said she also appreciated the opportunity to check out all the booths. She said the hair dressing booth was cool, as well as makeup and cosmetology, but she is planning to pursue a career as an elementary school teacher. Ken Miller from Iron Workers Local 378, said he likes to introduce students to the jobs available, which start at $34 per hour plus benefits for entry-level jobs and pay $62 per hour or about $110,000-$120,00 for a journeyman. A foreman can make about $140,000 per year, he said. Concord HS senior Lorena Cardenas and her friends got to look inside a Concord Police SUV, which included reinforced windows to prevent people from breaking out. She also liked the Tesla booth and said she is considering the  Tesla program or business administration at DVC after she graduates, but the Fire Department's Paramedic program also appealed to her. "I like to help people," she said.  The MDUSD School Board heard a presentation about the District's College & Career Readiness programs, including the fair, during its Oct. 15 meeting. (See Board Briefs below). The District will offer a similar career fair to 8th-graders in January. Click on the High School Social Media Highlights below to see a reel and more photos from the event. District News Board Briefs: MDUSD Board holds Budget Study Session, hears College and Career update MDUSD Board Declares Oct. 23-31, 2025 Red Ribbon Week The MDUSD Board held a Budget Study Session on Oct. 14 that included a detailed presentation showing budget projections for three years through 2027-28, including potential costs related to collective bargaining and benefits, as well as potential risks to revenues. The meeting recording is online here .  The MDUSD Board held a regular meeting on Oct. 15 and adopted a resolution declaring Oct. 23-31, 2025 Red Ribbon Week. The Board also received a Career & College Readiness Update , which included a report on the Career Education Fair at Concord HS (See Spotlight above), a testimonial from a College Park HS alum who is now a trades apprentice, and an invitation to the upcoming Trades Parent Information Night in partnership with the Torlakson Whole Child Institute (See District News below). The complete agenda is here . The Board will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22 to appoint a District Athletic Compliance Officer, and hear a presentation on CAASPP test score results during the Superintendent's Report, among other items. The agenda is here . Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark's Weekly Organizational Update to the Board, which includes detailed District operations reports from Department leaders, is here . An  archive of past reports is here . 2024-25 CAASPP English Language Arts, Math and Science standardized test scores released On Oct. 9, the state released standardized test scores for students in grades 3-8 and 11  last spring in English Language Arts (ELA) and math for all Districts and schools, as well as Science test scores for students in grades 5, 8 and one high school grade. Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark sent a message to families and staff that included test results for MDUSD elementary, middle and high schools, as well as alternative high school programs. These reports showed the changes from 2023-24 to 2024-25, including growth in each subject area. You can also search by schools on the state's CAASPP website here . In addition, parents can access their students' scores in their Aeries Homelink accounts. The School Board will receive a detailed report on the District results at its Wednesday, Oct. 22nd meeting (see Board Briefs above). Statewide, 48.82% of students met or exceeded standards in ELA and 37.3% met or exceeded standards in Math. Statewide growth averaged 1.8% increases in ELA and Math, and a 2% increase in Science. In MDUSD, several schools scored above statewide averages and recorded more impressive growth. Schools where 50% or more students scored proficient in both ELA and Math are highlighted in the " MDUSD CAASPP Spotlights On Success " graphic above, along with schools where 50% or more students scored proficient in Science. In addition, schools that recorded growth of 5% or more in ELA, Math, or Science are also highlighted.   Greater Chamber of Commerce donates $1,000 each to two MDUSD Career Pathways programs MDUSD thanks the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce for its donation of $1,000 each to the Construction pathway at Concord HS and the Culinary pathway at Mt. Diablo HS. Chamber President and CEO Kevin Cabral, who is a Concord HS alum from the Class of 1984, proudly presented the checks to Construction Pathway teacher Tom Trowbridge and Culinary Arts teacher Chef Betsy Paiz at their schools on Oct. 14. The donations came from the Chamber's Community Alliance for the Future nonprofit, which is earmarked for education-related programs. Cabral said he was excited to donate to programs that help students to live and work in Concord after they graduate. Trowbridge will use the donation to support his Construction Technology students' participation in the Design Build Competition in the spring. Paiz, who was hired in August, will use her donation to help restructure the culinary arts pathway and to reopen its student-run Serendipity restaurant. Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark thanked Cabral and stressed the importance of community partnerships, telling the students: "We're all in your corner, rooting for you!"  AAPAC discusses afterschool programs, academic excellence, equity, and school culture On October 16, families from across MDUSD gathered at the Willow Creek Center in Concord for the monthly African-American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) meeting. The event brought together parents from several district schools to engage in important conversations about the district’s commitment to equity and culturally responsive education, said Dr. Lamont Francies, Black/African American Family Engagement Coordinator. The evening began with an insightful presentation on the district’s  afterschool programs , highlighting the opportunities available for students and how these programs help foster academic growth and community engagement. Parents learned about the various resources designed to support their children's educational journeys. The new Director of Student Services, Melissa Brennan, gave a key presentation sharing the district's ongoing efforts to advance equity and cultural responsiveness, emphasizing the importance of inclusive practices that ensure African American students receive rigorous instruction in a welcoming and supportive environment. Brennan spoke passionately about the district’s commitment to  Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) Goal #4 , which focuses on academic excellence, equity, and fostering a positive, inclusive school culture for all students. The meeting also provided an opportunity for parents to voice their concerns, ask questions, and offer suggestions for further improving the educational experience for African American students. "It was a productive evening filled with collaboration, as families, educators, and district representatives worked together to ensure that every student thrives," Dr. Francies said. "As always, the AAPAC meeting underscored the importance of community partnership in advancing educational equity and creating a school environment where all students feel valued, respected, and empowered to succeed."  Fall Fest Community Event is Saturday, October 18th in the Bay Point Garden at Riverview MS MDUSD's Expanded Learning Program invites District Families to a Fall Fest Community Event on Saturday, October 18th, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Bay Point Garden at Riverview Middle School, 205 Pacifica Ave. in Bay Point.  This year’s theme is "Monster Ball." Please join us for games, food, prizes and crafts. We hope to see you there. Please see the attached flyers for more information.   Intradistrict Transfer Window continues through Nov. 10, 2025 for the 2026-27 school year From October 10 through November 10, 2025, MDUSD's Intradistrict Transfer Application is available for all schools, grades 1-12 and for Sequoia and Monte Gardens' elementary schools' Kindergarten.  This application is only for students living within the MDUSD boundaries who want to attend a school other than their school of residence.  The transfer application links are now available on the District  website . The Intradistrict Transfer Application window for Kindergarteners (except Sequoia and Monte Gardens) will take place in Spring 2026  (February - March).  MDUSD College Fair is Thursday, October 23 at Ygnacio Valley HS in Concord The 13th Annual MDUSD College Fair is from 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 23 at Ygnacio Valley HS, 755 Oak Grove Road in Concord. It is open only to students and parents/guardians from MDUSD high schools or Adult programs. Students must show a student ID or proof of attending a MDUSD Adult program to enter. Meet more than 80 college and university representatives, learn about other post-secondary options, gather resources, ask questions and make an informed decision about the right fit. Ideal for HS juniors and seniors! To volunteer or ask questions, email mdusdcollegefair@gmail.com.  No school on Monday, Oct. 27 for Teacher In-Service Day, Experience Dyslexia Event is Oct. 28 There will be no school on Monday, October 27th for a Teacher In-Service Day. District Offices will be open. The District’s Special Education Dept. will host an “Experience Dyslexia”  event from 7-9 p.m. Oct. 28 and from 4-6 p.m. Nov. 13 at the District Office, 1936 Carlotta Drive in Concord. The free event will include updates on the Universal Screener for students at risk of reading difficulties for all students in grades K-2. MDUSD parents, staff and community members are invited to attend to learn more about this new program. Registration is required here. Building Trades Parents Night is Wednesday, Nov. 5 at Concord HS MDUSD is hosting a Building Trades Parents Night from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Nov. 5 at Concord HS, 4200 Concord Blvd., for MDUSD students and families to learn about apprenticeships/careers in the trades and how students can earn $32+ per hour right after high school. The free event is being presented in partnership with the Torlakson Whole Child Institute and local trades unions. Advance registration is required here. It will include free dinner for all registered attendees, Q&A with union representatives, and hands-on activities. See flyers for more information. Student News MDHS and YVHS Health Pathway students volunteer at Concord Emergency Preparedness Fair Students from the Ygnacio Valley HS Health Pathway' who have received Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training (above left and center) participated in the  Concord Emergency Preparedness Fair on Sept. 4 at Todos Santos Plaza, along with two Mt. Diablo HS Patient Care Pathway students who are interns in teacher Dr. Pintado's East Bay CPR business (above right). All 5 students volunteered their time to participate in the event, which taught community members to prepare for earthquakes and other disasters, use a fire extinguisher, shut off utilities, access shortwave radio communication, and contact 911 dispatchers.  The students and others who participated in the event had the opportunity to connect with members of theConcord Police Department, Contra Costa Fire & HazMat, Contra Costa County CWS (Community Warning System), Contra Costa County Aging and Adult Services, Contra Costa County Animal Services, American Red Cross, California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, PG&E and other local organizations and businesses.  Congrats on this great community service opportunity! School News Meadow Homes Elementary students participate in California Crunch "Farm to School" event MDUSD's Food & Nutrition Services Dept. hosted a California Crunch  event at Meadow Homes Elementary on Thursday in partnership with CARES, Frog Hollow Farm, and Conscious Kitchen, said Food & Nutrition Services Director Alex Emmott. "Students learned about organic farming and munched on organic Asian pears from Frog Hollow - so good," she added. "This was part of our National Farm to School Month celebrations." More information is here . Mt. Diablo Adult Ed hosts Constitution Day, MDHS students videotaped & photographed Mt. Diablo HS students Jizelle Ayala and Nathalia Jimenez stand with Dr. Clark (left); and with Caroline Francois and Concord Mayor Carlyn Obringer (center); and work together to photograph the event (right).  Mt. Diablo Adult Education held an all-school Assembly to honor Constitution Day on September 17th. Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark kicked off the event with uplifting words for the students and staff in attendance, said Anna Ramos, MDUSD's Manager of Youth Development & Support Services. "Carlyn Obringer, Mayor of Concord, and Caroline Francois, Community Relations Director for Congressman Mark DeSaulnier, took center stage after that. They spoke on what the Constitution means to them, how it shapes their work, and answered students' questions."  In collaboration with the College & Career Readiness Department, Mt. Diablo HS seniors Jizelle Ayala and Nathalia Jimenez in the school's Multimedia Pathway were on hand to videotape the event and take pictures.  "The hour-long event taught us something new about the Constitution, emphasized the importance of each person's rights, and spurred lively discussions in the classrooms afterward," Ramos said. Congrats to all for a successful event, which gave "on the job training" to Jizelle and Nathalia!  Mt. Diablo HS Transportation class gets welding demo from Los Medanos College instructor Mt. Diablo HS Transportation (Auto Tech) Pathway students were visited by Los Medanos College Welding Instructor Joe Meyer on Friday, who gave them a presentation on his welding program. "Students also had the opportunity to participate in a live welding demonstration, gaining valuable insight into postsecondary and career opportunities in the skilled trades," said MDUSD Career Pathway Work Based Learning Coordinator Daisy Romero-Briseño, who helped coordinate the special opportunity with Transportation Tech teacher Neil Bertson.  The school  tweeted proudly: "Students welded pieces of metal to create a stand for their phones!" Kudos on this wonderful collaboration!   School Social Media Highlights Delta View Elementary, Diablo View MS, Riverview MS and Sequoia MS MDUSD elementary and middle school students, staff and families have been participating in a variety of group activities. Recent social media highlights include: Delta View Elementary established its own African American Parent Advisory Committee (AAPAC); Diablo View MS honored its Top Spirit Homeroom Teams led by Mrs. Ruff, Mrs. Ballard and Mrs. Parker; Riverview MS 6th-graders created cuneiform tablets like ancient Mesopotamians; and the Sequoia MS Spanish for Spanish Speakers class celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month by serenading the office staff with a Spanish song!  College Park HS, College Now, Concord HS and Mt. Diablo HS MDUSD high school students have been having fun and learning together. Recent social media highlights include: College Park HS Girls Varsity Tennis Team's "Twin Day"; College Now students visiting the MDUSD Career Education Fair; a Concord HS reel highlighting the Career Education Fair; and Mt. Diablo HS students  enjoying the Career Education Fair.  Staff Social Media Highlights College Park HS, Mt. Diablo HS tennis & admins, Transportation and Maintenance & Operations MDUSD staff members have been earning well-deserved recognition for their hard work and collaboration! Recent social media highlights include: College Park HS softball  team thanks its coaches on National Coaches Day; Mt. Diablo HS Girls Tennis thanks its coaches - including 3 MDHS alumni and a former Riverview MS educator - on National Coaches Day; Transportation and Maintenance & Operations Departments  collaborate to expand Electric Vehicle fleet; and Mt. Diablo HS thanks its administrators during CA Week of the School Administrator! Important Dates Oct. 18:  CARES Fall Fest from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Riverview MS Garden (See District News above) Oct. 21: Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC)  meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Oct. 22: District Governing Board  meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Oct. 23: District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC)  meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center; College Fair from 6:30-8 p.m. at Ygnacio Valley HS (See District News above) Oct. 27:  Teacher In-Service Day (No school, District Offices will be open) Oct. 28: District Parent Advisory Committee (PAC)  meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord Nov. 5:  Building Trades Parents Night from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Concord HS (See District News above) The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Oct 18 2025