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  • How to Access PVSD Board Meetings on New Platform (I...

    How to Access PVSD Board Meetings on New Platform Hello PVSD Families and Community, I wanted to reach out to share an update regarding our transition from BoardDocs to Diligent. Diligent acquired BoardDocs, and BoardDocs is being phased out, which is why the district is migrating to the Diligent platform and why the meeting information may look different.  We now have a  Diligent online landing page where you can access Board Meeting information.  1. To access the agenda (public view), please click 'Regular Meeting of the Governing Board - Jan 15, 2026' under Upcoming Meetings: This will bring you to the Regular Meeting of the Governing Board - Jan 15, 2026 public agenda: 2. There is also an option to subscribe to the Board Meeting agenda. When you subscribe, you will receive a notification each time an agenda is published. To do this, click the 'Home' button, scroll down, and click 'Subscribe, as shown below: You can attend the meeting in person this Thursday at 5 pm, or access it on Google Meet ( https://meet.google.com/dvr-izqr-nuc Or dial: ‪(US) +1 401-753-2880‬ PIN: ‪536 639 416‬#). If you have any questions, please let me know. Best, Roberta

    Tuesday, Jan 13 2026

  • PVSD Newsletter | January 15, 2026

    Portola Valley School District District Newsletter January 8, 2026 Superintendent's New Year's Message Dear Portola Valley School District Families and Community, On behalf of the PVSD administrative team and Governing Board, I wish you a Happy New Year! As we welcome the new year, I would like to reflect on the first half of the school year - there is much to be proud of! The start of the 2025–2026 school year brought renewed energy and connection across the Portola Valley School District. Students and staff at Ormondale School and Corte Madera School engaged in dynamic learning environments centered on academic growth, creativity, and well-being. Throughout the fall, students participated in hands-on instruction, digital citizenship lessons, and rich classroom experiences, while families joined the district for meaningful community learning opportunities. Highlights included an e-bike safety presentation, a Screenagers film screening and student panel discussion, and the launch of the district’s AI Task Force, reflecting PVSD’s commitment to thoughtful innovation and student safety. Family engagement was further strengthened through parent coffee conversations at Ormondale focused on reading screeners and at Corte Madera highlighting the middle school program. Visual and performing arts events across both campuses showcased student talent and creativity, marking a strong and purposeful first half of the year. Looking ahead, the new year brings both opportunity and responsibility. We remain focused on supporting student success while thoughtfully navigating districtwide challenges. With careful planning, open communication, and shared problem-solving, we are committed to making decisions that reflect our values and serve students now and into the future. Above all, our vision remains clear: to provide a positive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment where every student feels supported, challenged, and inspired. I look forward to the year ahead and all that we will accomplish together. Warm Regards, Roberta   Registration for 2026 - 2027 School Year Has Begun! New student enrollment for grades TK-8 for the 2026-2027 school year has begun and continues throughout the school year. Students enrolling for the 2026-2027 school year in Kindergarten must be five years old on or before September 1 of the academic year of enrollment. Students enrolling for the 2026-2027 for TK must be four years old on or before September 1 of the academic year of enrollment. Click here for more information. Please spread the word to friends and/or neighbors!   Thank you, Portola Valley Schools Foundation! Did you know that the Portola Valley Schools Foundation (PVSF) donates nearly 6% of the district's general revenue every year through the Annual Campaign, and that the Endowment Fund supports grants that cross all grades and the entire student body to encourage innovative ways of teaching? At the December 18, 2025 Governing Board Meeting, the PVSD Board accepted PVSF’s donations of $1,050,000.00 for the 2024-2025 Annual Campaign and $83,886.29 for the Fall 2025 Endowment Grants (18 grants funded)! Board President Armsby, on behalf of the Board and as a former Foundation President, commended the Foundation for its continued dedication, increasing participation, and commitment to supporting district priorities and student success.   Corte Madera School STEAM FAIR – JUDGES NEEDED! Corte Madera School needs volunteer judges for our 2025-2026 STEAM fair. The Fair will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 5:30pm - 6:30pm.   Judges play a crucial part of the STEAM Fair. They actively review over 100 projects that will be on display for students and families! Volunteers are asked to judge the projects at CMS on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. It will take about 1 hour. Please sign-up to attend at a block of time that works for you between 8:00am and 4:00pm. We need several volunteers! If you work with graduate students, college students or AP high school students, please share this email with them. Colleagues, friends, and neighbors that you know are welcome too. Is it important that we have enough judges so that we can have a successful STEAM Fair.  If interested, please click on the link below and complete the form. STEAM Fair Judges Form   Rite of Passage Experiences (ROPES) Candidate Information Students in grades 3, 5, 7 and 8 are invited to participate in ROPES (Rite of Passage Experiences). ROPES is an optional opportunity for students to explore a passion and present what they learned about that passion to a group of adults in a relaxed and supportive way. You can learn more about ROPES by visiting our PVSD website. Click on ABOUT and ROPES and you will find all of the information about the project.  For those students wishing to participate, please complete a ROPES Candidate form by January 16, 2026. Students who choose to do a ROPES Project have from now until April to work on their project. We look forward to this rite of passage opportunity for our students each year and hope to continue to increase participation. Please feel free to contact Ormondale Principal, Lynette Hovland at lhovland@pvsd.net if you have any questions.   Screenagers: Elementary School Age Edition On Wednesday December 3, more than 60 PVSD parents oined us for a screening of Screenagers: Elementary School Age Edition, which shares the latest research and practical guidance to help families and educators thoughtfully navigate the digital world with elementary-age students. The movie was followed by a panel discussion, which was facilitated by Dr. Minoo Shah, PVSD Director of Educational Services. Two CMS students, Cameron and Uma, were joined by Laura Horsch Nicolls (clinical psychologist and PVSD parent), Ana Homayoun (author of Erasing the Finish Line and founder of Green Ivy Educational Consulting), and Margaret Daoud-Gray  (Director at Common Sense Media and former teacher). We encourage parents to subscribe to Tech Talk Tuesday, Screenagers Podcast, and the Screenagers YouTube channel. This content helps support productive, constructive conversations with our families, kids, and teens.  Thanks to the PTO for sponsoring the event, and to AlphaBEST for providing free child care!   PVSD Governing Board Meeting Updates You're invited to the upcoming governing board meeting on Thursday January 15, 2026 @ 5:00 pm. The meeting is held at the PVSD District Office (4574 Alpine Road, Portola Valley) or via Google Meet. Discussion topics include: Ormondale and Corte Madera School Updates Student Wellness and Health Curriculum Update CMS Student Showcase Full agenda posted here. December 18, 2025 Board Meeting Summary, including First Interim Budget Approval, 2024 - 2025 Audit Approval, Citizens' Parcel Tax Report, can be found here.  

    Thursday, Jan 08 2026

  • 2026 - 2027 Academic Calendar has been board approved!

    2026 - 2027 Academic Calendar Great news! The PVSD Board of ​Trustees has approved the 2026 - 2027 Academic Calendar at their meeting last night. Click here to see the calendar. Major Holiday Breaks: First Day of School: Wed Aug 19, 2026 Thanksgiving Holiday: Nov 23 - Nov 27, 2026 Winter Holiday Break: Dec 21, 2026 - Jan 1, 2027 Presidents' Week Break: Feb 15, Feb 19, 2027 Spring Break: April 12 - April 16, 2027 Last Day of School: June 10, 2027 [Friday, Nov 14 at 12:12 PM] Update: please note that the calendar that was sent out earlier this morning had an error on dates in Sept. Please refer to the updated and corrected calendar. Thank you!

    Friday, Nov 14 2025

  • IMPORTANT E-Bike Policy Change in PVSD and Link to "...

    IMPORTANT E-Bike Policy Change in PVSD and Link to "E-Bikes and Youth: What Parents Need to Know" Parent Presentation At this morning’s E-Bike Parent Presentation, new information was brought to our attention, which caused an immediate change in our e-bike policy:   Prohibited Vehicles on PVSD Campuses:  Students are prohibited from bringing  Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes, e-motos, e-scooters, and e-boards  to campus, or parking/storing them on school property.  Any other bike with a throttle is also prohibited.  (Note that this is a change from Principal Shima’s Sept 30 newsletter on this topic, which stated that both Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are allowed at CMS “at this time - subject to change.”) Permitted Vehicles:  Only  Class 1 e-bikes  that are permanently labeled and do not have a throttle or exceed 20 mph are permitted. Rationale:  The policy aims to safeguard student physical safety due to the unique risks posed by motorized vehicles in the school's congested environment, citing concerns of lack of adequate training/experience and difficulty in identifying non-street-legal models (e-motos). Enforcement:  Vehicles in violation will be  locked and held  by the school and must be retrieved by a parent/guardian. The policy does not apply to adults (parents/guardians, staff) over the age of 16. E-Bikes and Youth: What Parents Need to Know Parent Presentation Here is the  link  to the presentation. Presentation Summary: As e-bikes and motorized scooters become more popular, safety and legality have become growing concerns—especially for young riders. Recent data show that many of the vehicles marketed to children and teens are not actually “e-bikes” under California law and may pose serious legal and safety risks.   Legally, a true e-bike: Has  pedals , A motor of  750 watts or less , and A top speed of  20 mph . Vehicles that exceed these limits are considered  e-motorcycles  and must be  registered with the DMV ,  insured , and  driven only by licensed riders . These cannot be used on roads, sidewalks, or bike paths. It matters because: Youth ages  10–15 are five times more likely  to suffer serious e-wheel injuries than other age groups. In recent Marin County incidents,  all crashes involved illegal e-motos , most driven by minors under 16. Parents can be held  legally and financially responsible  for crashes involving unlicensed riders. What the Law Says It’s a  crime  to drive or allow someone to drive an unregistered or unlicensed motor vehicle. Police can impound  illegal e-motos and cite unlicensed riders. Parents may face  misdemeanor or even felony charges  if a child’s safety is endangered. E-scooters require a drivers’ license, so middle school students must not ride scooters. Why to Say “No” to Throttle “E-Bikes” Throttle-powered bikes that accelerate without pedaling often exceed legal limits. Labeling them as “Class 2 e-bikes” doesn’t make them legal. Beyond the safety risks, parents could be held liable in civil court for injuries or damages caused by an unlicensed rider.   

    Wednesday, Nov 12 2025

  • PVSD Newsletter | Nov 6, 2025 - World Kindness Day,...

    Portola Valley School District District Newsletter November 6, 2025 World Kindness Day — Where Heart Meets Habit In one week we celebrate a legacy that began with a whisper in Tokyo in 1998 — a whisper that grew into a global chorus. World Kindness Day was created by the World Kindness Movement, a coalition of nations united under one timeless idea: kindness is our shared language — one that speaks to both heart and science. Research continues to show what we’ve always known intuitively: kindness changes us, inside and out. Twenty-seven years later, this day is a living reminder that kindness connects us all. On November 13, we invite you to join us in celebrating kindness — not only through your actions but through awareness. Every smile, note, and good deed you share becomes part of something measurable and magnificent. In 2026, The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation will take the Science of Kindness exploration even deeper — studying how compassion reshapes our brains, strengthens our bodies, and builds the bonds that make us human. Every act matters. Every ripple counts.   Announcement of PVSD Board Seat Vacancy WHO CAN APPLY: Residents of the Portola Valley Elementary School District who are 18 years of age or older, and are registered to vote. (Please Note: PVSD employees are not eligible to apply.) HOW TO APPLY: Obtain and complete the Candidate Application. Submit the application via email to: Ms. Liza Benabbas  lbenabbas@pvsd.net, or deliver in hard copy form to: The Portola Valley School District Office, 4575 Alpine Road (on the campus of Corte Madera School), Portola Valley CA 94028.  APPLICATION DUE: Candidate applications are due to the District Office by 5 PM by the end of the day on November 12, 2025.  INFORMATION to learn more about the role of a Trustee: Read the PVSD Governance Handbook Informational sessions: Tuesday November 4 @ 9:00 AM Thursday November 6 @ 5:30 PM The link to the virtual meetings is: meet.google.com/rih-ckef-cxw.  Contact current Trustees to gain more information about the role.  Contact the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent, Liza Benabbas lbenabbas@pvsd.net. if you have any questions. INTERVIEWS  Candidates must be available for interviews which will be held at a special board meeting on Monday November 17 at 5:00 PM. More specific information will be announced in the near future.  BOARD ACTION  It is anticipated that the Board will take action to appoint one new Trustee immediately following the candidate interview process on Nov 17. QUESTIONS  For further questions or additional information please contact the District Office: (650) 851-1777 or lbenabbas@pvsd.net.   In case you missed it... Wildfire Preparedness: Keeping Our Schools and Community Safe On October 14, PVSD and WFPD shared vital information on wildfire preparedness. Key topics included emergency protocols, school closure procedures, and strategies for reducing wildfire risk. We also outlined how the District collaborates closely with emergency partners—such as the Fire Protection District and the Sheriff's Department—to prioritize student and staff safety. Communication methods during emergencies were also discussed. Please review this important information and share it with friends and others in your network. Staying informed helps keep our entire community safe! Link to presentation Meeting recording Recording    Parent Presentation on E-Bike Safety: What Families Should Know E-bikes are becoming increasingly popular among students, offering freedom and convenience—but they also come with new safety responsibilities.  Join us for a Parent E-Bike Safety Presentation to learn about California laws, readiness tips, and local resources to help keep students safe on the road. Date/Time: 8:45 - 9:30 am Wednesday November 12, 2025  Location: District Office Annex 4575 Alpine Road, PV (on the Corte Madera School campus - building to the right of the District Office, down the driveway) Co-presented by Town of Portola Valley, SMC Sheriff's Department, SMC County Office of Education, & Portola Valley School District   Message from the Portola Valley Schools Foundation The Portola Valley Schools Foundation (PVSF) is excited to launch its 2025–26 Annual Fundraising Campaign next week. The funds raised by PVSF are essential to maintaining the high-quality education our students receive. Each year, Foundation contributions make up 5–7% of the district’s total budget, filling critical gaps left by limited state and federal funding. This support enables the district to attract and retain exceptional educators and sustain the programs that make our schools truly special. Without PVSF funding, we could not guarantee continued support for key programs such as music, art, physical education, Spanish, STEAM instruction and facilities, social-emotional learning, counseling services, and beloved experiences like the Ormondale chicken coop and school gardens. Our goal this year is to raise $1.2 million and achieve 100% family participation by November 21. Every contribution—no matter the size—makes a meaningful difference. Please donate today to help us reach our goal. You can find more information and donate here.   PVSD Governing Board Meeting Updates You're invited to the upcoming governing board meeting on Thursday November 13, 2025 @ 5:00 pm Discussion topics: Ormondale and Corte Madera School Updates Resolution Providing All Children Equal Access to Education, Regardless of Immigration Status Report on 2024 CAASPP Student Performance Results Approve 2026 - 2027 Academic Calendar Board Succession Planning due to vacancy District Office Annex (on CMS Campus) 4575 Alpine Road, Portola Valley Full agenda posted here. October 13 Board Meeting Summary here.  

    Thursday, Nov 06 2025

  • Oct 2025 Statement on Immigration - San Mateo County...

    Dear San Mateo County Students, Families, Residents, Friends, and Partners, The San Mateo County Office of Education has received credible reports of increased federal immigration enforcement activity in the Bay Area. We know many students, families, and educators are feeling fear and uncertainty, and we want to reassure you that our schools are, and will remain, places of safety, learning, and belonging for every child. What is true today: • Every student is entitled to a free public education regardless of immigration status. This is settled law under Plyler v. Doe. • Schools do not ask about a student’s or family’s immigration status as a condition of enrollment. • Student records are protected by federal and state privacy laws. We do not release personally identifiable student information without a lawful court order. • We will maintain safe and supportive campuses. Learning cannot happen when students are afraid, so we will take concrete steps to reduce fear, share facts, and keep routines stable. What we are doing now: • Coordinating with district leaders to ensure consistent information goes out to families in the top languages spoken in our county. • Communicating with school districts about student and family rights, attendance, and privacy to ensure staff can respond accurately to questions. • Increasing mental health and wellness support for students who may be experiencing stress, anxiety, or trauma. • Working with trusted community partners to connect families with legal information, Know Your Rights materials, and rapid response support. What families can do: • Keep children in school. School is a safe and stabilizing place for learning, nutrition, and support. • Make an emergency family plan. Identify a trusted adult who can pick up your child if needed and ensure the school has current contact information. • Reach out to your principal, counselor, or family liaison with questions. If you see ICE activity in San Mateo County or if you know someone who has been detained, please call the Rapid Response Hotline for San Mateo County: (203) 666-4472 (or 203 NO-MIGRA). Click here for additional resources. To our students : You belong in our schools. You are valued. Your dreams strengthen this community. Together, we will continue to protect the dignity, safety, and promise of every child who walks through our school doors. In solidarity and commitment, Nancy Magee San Mateo County Superintendent of Schools

    Saturday, Oct 25 2025

  • Announcement of PVSD Board Seat Vacancy

    Announcement of PVSD Board Seat Vacancy WHO CAN APPLY :  Residents of the Portola Valley Elementary School District who are 18 years of age or older, and are registered to vote. (Please Note: PVSD employees are not eligible to apply.) HOW TO APPLY :  Obtain and complete the  Candidate Application . Submit the application via email to: Ms. Liza Benabbas  lbenabbas@pvsd.net , or deliver in hard copy form to: The Portola Valley School District Office, 4575 Alpine Road (on the campus of Corte Madera School), Portola Valley CA 94028  APPLICATION DUE :  Candidate applications are due to the District Office by 5 PM by the end of the day on  November 12, 2025 .  INFORMATION  to learn more about the role of a Trustee: Read the PVSD  Governance Handbook Informational sessions: Tuesday November 4 @ 9:00 AM Thursday November 6 @ 5:30 PM The link to the virtual meetings is:  meet.google.com/rih-ckef-cxw .   Contact current Trustees to gain more information about the role.  Contact the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent, Liza Benabbas  lbenabbas@pvsd.net . if you have any questions. INTERVIEWS     Candidates must be available for interviews which will be held at a special board meeting on  Monday November 17 at 5:00 PM . More specific information will be announced in the near future.  BOARD ACTION     It is anticipated that the Board will take action to appoint one new Trustee immediately following the candidate interview process. QUESTIONS     For further questions or additional information please contact the District Office: (650) 851-1777 or  lbenabbas@pvsd.net .

    Thursday, Oct 23 2025

  • PVSD Governing Board Trustee Resigns

    PVSD Governing Board Trustee Resigns After three years of service on the Portola Valley School District Board, Trustee Amod Setlur has submitted his resignation, effective November 13, 2025. Trustee Setlur was elected to the board in November 2022 and his term was slated to end in December 2026. Mr. Setlur shared, “I am grateful for the opportunity I have had to work alongside my fellow Trustees, the dedicated administration, staff, and the community to support our students. This decision was made after careful consideration of personal and professional changes that require my full attention.” “Trustee Settlur has been an invaluable member of our governing board, and his intellect, curiosity and compassion have contributed so much to the leadership of the District. We are so appreciative of his contributions to the PVSD community,” said Board President Aimee Armsby. Superintendent Roberta Zarea commented, “On behalf of the Portola Valley School District, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Trustee Setlur for his three years of dedicated service. His thoughtful leadership and steadfast commitment to the continuous improvement of our schools have made a lasting impact. We are especially grateful for his expertise in the areas of technology, safety, and facilities, which have strengthened our schools and supported the success and well-being of every student.” At its meeting last night the Board of Trustees moved to launch the appointment process dictated by law in the event of a vacancy on the Board. Announcements of the vacancy and directions about application procedures are being posted in local newspapers, and on the District’s website. Applications to fill the remaining 13 months of Mr. Setlur’s term are due by 5:00 p.m. on November 12 and the Board will interview applicants at a Special Meeting during the week of November 17, with the successful applicant being identified and seated at that meeting. The provisionally appointed trustee will serve until the end of the term in December 2026. 10.17.25 Press Release

    Friday, Oct 17 2025

  • 2024 - 2025 PVSD CAASPP SCORES PRESS RELEASE

    2024 - 2025 PVSD CAASPP SCORES PRESS RELEASE Last spring, PVSD students participated in the 2025 California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) in English Language Arts/Literacy (ELA) and Mathematics (grades 3–8), and Science (grades 5 and 8). On October 9, 2025, the California Department of Education released statewide results, available at   caaspp-elpac.ets.org . PVSD students once again demonstrated strong achievement and growth: ELA:  86% met or exceeded standards (+1% from 2024) Math:  84% met or exceeded standards (+1% from 2024) Science (CAST):  84% met or exceeded standards (+5% from 2024) CAASPP results, together with local assessments, help guide instruction and provide families and educators with a fuller picture of student learning through the   California School Dashboard , which also includes data on attendance, graduation rates, and more. Superintendent Zarea shared, “I’m encouraged by the continued growth of our students in ELA, Math, and Science. I’m so proud of our talented and hard-working students, staff, and families. Our team is digging into the data to ensure we keep fostering an inspiring learning environment where every student can thrive.”

    Friday, Oct 10 2025

  • PVSD Newsletter | Oct 9, 2025 Virtual Wildfire Prep...

    Portola Valley School District District Newsletter October 9, 2025 Dear PVSD Parents and Guardians, Keeping our students safe—on campus, on the road, and online—is always our top priority. This October, we’re focusing on how we can all work together to keep our community prepared and connected. From wildfire and earthquake preparedness to everyday school safety protocols, PVSD staff trains regularly so we’re ready for any situation. Your partnership—by staying informed, following procedures, and reviewing family plans—helps keep every child safe. We’re also reminding families about e-bike and e-scooter safety. Students must follow all safety laws and campus rules, including walking bikes and scooters on school grounds and not riding illegal vehicles to or from school. These guidelines help keep everyone—students, families, and neighbors—safe. In addition, we’re celebrating Digital Citizenship Week (Oct. 20–24), a time to help students learn how to be safe, kind, and responsible online. Families play a big role too, and we encourage you to explore Common Sense Media’s tips and activities to continue these important conversations at home. Thank you for being such a vital part of the PVSD safety and digital community team! With gratitude, Roberta   Wildfire Preparedness: Keeping Our Schools and Community Safe On October 14 at 6:30pm, PVSD and the Woodside Fire Protection District (WFPD) will to share important information with parents about how our schools prepare for wildfires and other emergency situations. The presentation, led by Fire Marshal Kim Giuliacci, Public Education Officer Selena Brown, and PVSD Superintendent Roberta Zarea, will outline the District’s coordinated plans to keep students and staff safe. Please spread the word and share the information about this presentation: When: Tues Oct 14 6:30 - 7:15 pm Where: Google Meet (meet.google.com/mba-adgr-kha) Important topics that will be covered: Emergency Protocols: PVSD follows the San Mateo County Office of Education’s “Big 5” Immediate Action Protocols, which guide decisions around evacuation, sheltering in place, and communication during emergencies. Evacuation & Closure Plans: Decisions to evacuate, dismiss early, shelter in place, or close schools are made in collaboration with WFPD and law enforcement, based on site safety, transportation access, and fire conditions. Parents are notified through ParentSquare Urgent Alerts. Student Release: A controlled process ensures students are safely reunited with authorized adults, with ID verification and clear procedures for both on-site and off-site reunification. Campus Safety: PVSD campuses have defensible spaces, fire-resistant building materials, and remote-controlled ventilation systems to reduce ember intrusion. Routine vegetation management and tree risk assessments are ongoing. Communication & Awareness: Families are encouraged to stay informed through multiple channels, including SMC Alerts, Portola Valley Radio 1680 AM, and local emergency websites. Together with our partners at WFPD, PVSD is committed to maintaining clear plans, effective communication, and strong community partnerships to keep everyone safe!   The Great Shakeout Keeping our students and staff safe during emergencies is a top priority. One of the most effective ways to stay safe during an earthquake is to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.” If you feel shaking or receive an alert: DROP to your hands and knees COVER your head and neck HOLD ON until the shaking stops Practicing these steps helps everyone respond quickly and confidently. On the morning of October 16, Ormondale and Corte Madera students and staff will participate in a districtwide Drop, Cover, and Hold On drill as part of the Great ShakeOut. We encourage families to talk about and practice these steps at home too. Learn more at EarthquakeCountry.org and ShakeOut.org   Emergency Preparedness The safety of our students is our top priority. Our staff is trained in emergency procedures to handle various scenarios and keep your child safe. In the event of an emergency during school hours, it’s crucial to stay calm and follow specific protocols. Your cooperation and understanding are essential as we work together to maintain a secure learning environment for all students.  When An Emergency Happens During School Hours  Please remain calm. Every staff member at every campus regularly trains in emergency procedures in numerous scenarios. They will do everything possible to keep your child safe.  Please do not call the school. The phone lines need to be kept open for emergency calls.  Please do not come to the school. Parents could impede the ability of emergency vehicles to get to the school. Please remain at home or at work until you are given instructions by the school.  Do not immediately drive to the school. Parents could impede the ability of emergency vehicles to get to the school. Please remain at home or at work until you are given instructions from the school.  Remember that your child will only be released to the adults you listed on your emergency contact list! It’s important to update this information through PowerSchool each year. Whoever comes to the school to remove your child will be asked for identification and will have to sign your child out. Never take your child from the school without signing out with the staff member in charge. IMPORTANT -- PLEASE READ: School Safety and Emergency Information for Parents link and also accessible on the District website.   October 20 - 24 is Digital Citizenship Week Digital Citizenship Week is a great reminder that learning how to be safe, kind, and responsible online is just as important as learning how to read and write. In PVSD, our students will be exploring what it means to make smart choices online—whether that’s thinking critically about what they see, protecting their privacy, or treating others with respect in digital spaces. Families play a key role too! Common Sense Media has excellent tools to help you start conversations at home—on everything from screen time to social media use. Check out these quick, age-appropriate tips and activities: Common Sense Media: Digital Citizenship for Families. Together, we can help our children grow into thoughtful and confident digital citizens!   E-Bike Safety Student safety is our top priority. Illegal e-bikes, gas bikes, motorcycles, or e-scooters are not permitted on campus. If a student brings one to school, the Sheriff’s Department will be contacted to determine next steps. All traditional bikes, Class 1 & 2 e-bikes, scooters, and skateboards must be walked on campus and parked in designated racks. Please do not allow your child to ride illegal vehicles to or from school—they’re not permitted for this age group and may result in legal consequences. See Principal Shima's post from Sept 30 for more information. SAVE THE DATE! PVSD, SMC Sheriff's Department, and the Town of PV will be holding a Parent Coffee about E-Bikes: When: Wed Nov 12 8:45 - 9:30 am Where: PVSD District Office Knowing the e-bike rules and riding safely is critical! Know the Law California classifies e-bikes into three types: Class 1 – Pedal-assist only, up to 20 mph. Class 2 – Pedal-assist plus a throttle, up to 20 mph. Class 3 – Pedal-assist only, up to 28 mph. Riders must be 16+, wear a helmet, and cannot ride on multi-use paths. Just like regular bikes, e-bikes must follow the rules of the road: stop at intersections, ride with traffic, use hand signals, and stay off sidewalks unless posted otherwise. Build the Right Skills E-bikes are heavier and faster than traditional bikes, which means they handle differently. Before kids head out on their own, make sure they’re comfortable with: Navigating intersections and traffic safely Signaling turns and following speed limits Riding a safe distance from parked cars Stopping quickly and in control without swerving Riding with your child at first is a great way to build confidence and make sure they know how to handle different road situations. A Shared Responsibility Safe riding isn’t just about the rider—it’s about everyone on the road. Being predictable, respecting pedestrians, and avoiding distractions like texting keep our entire community safer. Learn More Together We encourage families to check out these helpful resources: California E-Bike Law Q&A E-Bike Handbook for Students & Parents 12-Minute E-Bike Safety Video CHP Online Safety Training   Message from the Portola Valley Schools Foundation The Portola Valley Schools Foundation (PVSF) is excited to launch its 2025–26 Annual Fundraising Campaign next week. The funds raised by PVSF are essential to maintaining the high-quality education our students receive. Each year, Foundation contributions make up 5–7% of the district’s total budget, filling critical gaps left by limited state and federal funding. This support enables the district to attract and retain exceptional educators and sustain the programs that make our schools truly special. Without PVSF funding, we could not guarantee continued support for key programs such as music, art, physical education, Spanish, STEAM instruction and facilities, social-emotional learning, counseling services, and beloved experiences like the Ormondale chicken coop and school gardens. Our goal this year is to raise $1.2 million and achieve 100% family participation by November 21. Every contribution—no matter the size—makes a meaningful difference. Please donate today to help us reach our goal. You can find more information and donate here.   News from the Woodside Fire Protection District This October, we’re highlighting Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 5–11) with the theme “Charge into Fire Safety™.” This flyer provides easy tips on safe charging, spotting battery issues, proper storage, and reducing wildfire risks. Mark your calendar for the Great ShakeOut on Oct. 16 at 10:16 a.m. — a nationwide earthquake drill and a great reminder to review your family’s emergency plan.   PVSD Governing Board Meeting Updates You're invited to the upcoming governing board meeting on October 16! Discussion topics: Ormondale and Corte Madera School Updates Report on Multi- lingual learners Professional Development Update Approval of Comprehensive School Safety Plans Board Succession Planning due to vacancy ​ Thursday, October 16, 2025 4:00 pm Closed Session 5:00 pm Regular Meeting District Office Annex (on CMS Campus) 4575 Alpine Road, Portola Valley Full agenda posted here. September 18 Board Meeting Summary here.  

    Thursday, Oct 09 2025