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  • PVSD Newsletter | April 16, 2026 - Academic Suppor...

    Portola Valley School District District Newsletter April 16, 2026 Superintendent's Message Dear Portola Valley School District Families and Community, As we move through the spring, our focus remains steadfast on ensuring every student in our district is Inspired to Explore and Prepared to Succeed. This month’s newsletter highlights the vital systems and forward-thinking initiatives that allow us to meet the diverse needs of all our learners. At the heart of our educational mission is our Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). This comprehensive framework is designed to provide proactive, data-driven intervention for every student—academically, socially, and behaviorally. I am proud to share that our recent winter assessment results reflect the strength of our core classroom instruction, with 81% of students in reading and 86% in math succeeding through Tier 1 support alone. We continue to refine this framework to ensure that whether a student needs universal instruction or more intensive, individualized support, they have the tools to thrive. As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, PVSD is committed to helping families navigate this new landscape. We believe in building AI literacy by encouraging parents to be "co-learners" with their children, setting clear boundaries regarding data privacy, and monitoring digital well-being. Our AI Task Force, composed of dedicated parents and staff, has been working diligently to shape our district's approach. We invite you to join us at the April 23 Board Meeting for a progress update, followed by the formal adoption of our AI policies and plans on June 4. Looking Ahead to Summer Finally, as you begin to plan for the warmer months, we are excited to partner with AlphaBEST for their all-new Summer Circuit program. Held at Ormondale Elementary, these camps offer students ages 5-12 a summer full of discovery, hands-on problem-solving, and collaboration. Thank you for your ongoing partnership and engagement in our school community. I look forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming board meeting as we continue to prioritize both excellence and equity for all our students. Warmly, Roberta Zarea Superintendent   Academic Support in PVSD Supporting Every Student: An Update on MTSS in PVSD At the March 19 Board of Trustees meeting, the Portola Valley School District shared an update on our Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), a framework that ensures every PVSD student receives the academic support they need to thrive. What is MTSS? MTSS is not a single program, but a comprehensive framework designed to support all students - academically, socially, and behaviorally. It focuses on early identification, evidence-based instruction, and proactive intervention to help students grow over time. How It Works MTSS is built on a tiered system of support: Tier 1 (Universal Instruction): High-quality classroom instruction for all students Tier 2 (Targeted Support): Additional small-group instruction for students needing extra help Tier 3 (Intensive Support): Individualized support for a small number of students In PVSD, approximately 80–90% of students are supported through Tier 1, with additional layers of support provided as needed. A Collaborative, Data-Driven Approach PVSD Teachers and staff regularly meet to discuss student progress and determine the best supports. Teams such as the Building Intervention Team (BIT) and Student Success Team (SST) review data, monitor progress, and adjust instruction to ensure students are making meaningful growth. Recent data shows strong outcomes across the district. For example, winter assessment results indicate that 81% of students in reading and 86% in math are succeeding with core instruction alone, reflecting the strength of our Tier 1 program. Continuous Improvement in Action Over the past several years, PVSD has been building and refining its MTSS framework through: Enhanced use of data to guide decisions Improved progress monitoring for students needing support Stronger collaboration across grade levels and teams Focused efforts to support all student groups This year, the district is also deepening its work in early literacy screening, refining intervention processes, and strengthening math instruction with support from WestEd. Our Commitment MTSS reflects PVSD’s commitment to ensuring every student experiences high-quality instruction and receives the support they need to succeed. Through thoughtful systems, collaboration, and ongoing refinement, we continue to prioritize both excellence and equity for all learners. See entire presentation here.   AI In Education: What PVSD Parents Should Know As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, many families are asking how this technology will impact their children's education. To help you navigate this rapidly changing landscape, we are sharing this Guide on how to support your child’s learning while maintaining your family’s values. Strategies for Families at Home You don’t need to be a tech expert to guide your child. Consider these approaches: Be a Co-Learner: Position yourself as a fellow explorer. Ask your child what they’ve heard about AI at school or what they find interesting or concerning about it. Set Clear Boundaries: Discuss what information is safe to share with an AI and what is not. Note that most AI tools have age restrictions (often 13+ or 18+) that should be strictly followed. Monitor Well-Being: Watch for signs of over reliance, such as a preference for AI interaction over human connection or using AI to shortcut necessary intellectual struggle. The PVSD AI Task Force, comprised of parents and staff, will present an update on the work completed thus far at the April 23 board meeting. The Governing Board will adopt the final AI policies and plan at the June 4 meeting. All are welcome to attend!   AlphaBEST Summer Circuit Get ready to plug into adventure with Summer Circuit, AlphaBEST’s all-new lineup of camps designed to keep curiosity flowing all summer long! Each week sparks confidence in every camper as they get hands-on with problem-solving in fun and innovative ways. From creating and building to exploring and experimenting, every experience connects to the next—powering a summer full of discovery, collaboration, and growth. Join the circuit and stay charged for what’s next! More info   PVSD Governing Board Meeting Updates You're invited to the upcoming governing board meeting on Thursday April 23, 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 Ormondale Student Showcase TK-8 ELA and 6-8 Science Year 2 Implementation Update AI Task Force Update Full agenda posted here. March Board Meeting Summary can be found here.  

    Thursday, Apr 16 2026

  • Corte Madera School Named 2026 California Distinguis...

    Corte Madera School Named 2026 CA Distinguished School! We’re proud to share that Corte Madera School has been recognized as a 2026 California Distinguished School—one of the state’s highest honors! Corte Madera earned this recognition as an Achievement Gap Closer, highlighting its success in accelerating progress for historically underserved student groups while maintaining strong achievement for all students.  Selection for the California Distinguished Schools Program is based on data from the 2025 California School Dashboard, the state’s accountability system that measures student performance across multiple indicators. To qualify, schools must also meet rigorous criteria, including at least 95 percent participation in statewide assessments and positive school climate indicators, such as low suspension rates and strong attendance. Corte Madera is known for its strong academics, whole-child approach, and a culture of belonging, curiosity, and excellence. Students benefit from engaging learning experiences in core subjects, hands-on science, the arts, and meaningful opportunities for leadership and collaboration. Under the leadership of Principal Kristen Shima, staff partner closely with families to support every student’s success. This recognition reflects the incredible dedication of our teachers, staff, students, and families—and the collective commitment to ensuring all students thrive! Press Release

    Friday, Mar 20 2026

  • PVSD Newsletter | March 17, 2026 - AI Task Force Up...

    Portola Valley School District District Newsletter March 17, 2026 Superintendent's Message Dear Portola Valley School District Families and Community, As we welcome the arrival of spring, there is a wonderful sense of renewal and energy throughout our district. This season of growth provides a perfect backdrop for the many exciting initiatives and events currently taking place across our schools. In this week's newsletter, we are highlighting several key updates that reflect our commitment to innovation, student well-being, and community engagement: AI in Our Schools: We are deeply grateful to the 118 parents who shared their insights through our recent survey. Your feedback is essential as the PVSD AI Task Force works to develop thoughtful policies and guardrails for classroom use. Universal Meals Program: At our upcoming Board meeting on March 19, we will share updates on our free breakfast and lunch program. We are currently exploring new, high-quality meal vendor options through a collaborative bidding process that includes student voice in menu tastings. Rhinestone Rodeo Fanfare Event: Mark your calendars for March 21 for a "boots-not-bowties" fundraiser at Ormondale Elementary. It promises to be a fantastic evening featuring a margarita truck, barbecue, and even a mechanical bull, all benefiting our incredible schools. I also encourage you to attend our next Governing Board Meeting this Thursday, March 19, at 5:00 pm, where we will enjoy a Corte Madera Student Showcase and a STEAM presentation, as well as the Second Interim Budget presentation. Thank you for your ongoing partnership and support as we work together to ensure our students are inspired to explore and prepared to succeed. Warmly, Roberta Zarea Superintendent   PVSD Community Input: AI in Our Schools Thank you to the 118 parents who completed the recent AI in Our Schools Survey! This feedback will be used to develop PVSD's policies and guardrails on AI use in the classroom. At a high level, parents are divided on AI use for students, acknowledging its potential for administrative relief for staff and personalized learning, but expressing deep-seated apprehension. The primary concern is that AI will erode critical thinking and foundational skills by allowing students to skip the necessary "struggle" of the learning process. Consequently, a strong sentiment exists to delay the introduction of generative AI until high school or college, arguing younger students are not mature enough to use it judiciously. Additional worries focus on data privacy, the potential for misinformation, and the risk of diminished human interaction in the classroom. More information about survey results can be found here. Thank you to these parents, staff, and board members for serving on the PVSD AI Task Force: Parents/Community Members: Gennady Galanter  Barbara Muller Lance Downing Christine McLeavey Marta Sanchez Rachel Reilly Angel Roeding Laurie Richardson Jonathan Hirata Staff & Board Members Patrick Fu Patrick Dowd Riley Gorodsky Tristin McNall Peter Smith Marcus Bonfiglio Kristen Shima Lynette Hovland Karrie Amsler Mauricio Romero Bob Bauer KX Jin   Parents' Ultimate Guide to Generative AI You've probably heard of generative AI, but what is it, and how does it affect your family? Whether it's helping with homework, creating art, or answering questions, gen AI is likely already a part of your kids' lives, both in school and at home. A lot of teens are using these tools, but many parents don't even realize it. As AI evolves and becomes more common in our everyday lives, it's important to talk about it. Research shows that when families discuss generative AI, kids feel more confident in using it safely and responsibly. But we know it can be tough to start these conversations if you don't fully understand it yourself. That's why Common Sense Media created this guide—to help you and your family learn about and safely navigate gen AI together.   Universal Meals Program Update At the March 19, 2026 Board meeting, the Board of Trustees will receive an update on PVSD’s Universal Meals Program, which provides free breakfast and lunch to all students. PVSD is currently in the fourth year of our five-year contract with meal provider LunchMaster. As we plan ahead, the district is collaborating with three neighboring school districts to explore new meal vendor options through a joint Request for Proposals (RFP). The RFP was sent to 11 food vendors to ensure we consider a broad range of choices and high-quality meal options for our students. A panel of students and adults will participate in menu tastings to help inform the final vendor selection—because student voice matters when it comes to meals they will enjoy and eat. The Board presentation will also include updates on USDA nutrition standards and how these guidelines shape the meals served in our schools. We look forward to continuing to provide nutritious, appealing meals that support student health and learning.   Rhinestone Rodeo - PVSF Fanfare Event Tickets The 2026 Fanfare event, Rhinestone Rodeo is March 21, 2026! PVSD’s bi-annual charity event and biggest party of the year is just over a week away — a wild rodeo you won’t want to miss! Join us on March 21, 6–10 PM at Ormondale Elementary School. Highlights Live auction: a week in Baja, a year of sports with the 49ers/Warriors/Giants, prime Ormondale parking for two years, and even a fire‑truck ride to school. Food and drinks: Capelo’s BBQ, Specialty drinks, plus an open bar, and Churros for dessert. Entertainment: DJ, VW photo‑booth bus to capture the memories, and a mechanical (or inflatable) bull — challenge your friends to see who stays on longest. Buy‑in parties: Tickets to the event give priority access; buy‑in parties for non‑attendees and open to all open when the online auction begins. Silent Auction & Online Bidding The silent auction runs online Thursday through Saturday night and closes at 10 PM Saturday. If you can’t attend in person, set up an account to bid and monitor your status. We will be sharing instructions on how to do this soon. Why Your Support Matters Proceeds fund our Fund‑A‑Need: outdoor education enhancements — e.g., a new outdoor games area for CMS and a sensory path for Ormondale. If you can’t make the event, you can still donate via the website. Buy tickets    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!   PVSD Governing Board Meeting Updates You're invited to the upcoming governing board meeting on Thursday March 19, 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 Corte Madera Student Showcase STEAM Presentation MTSS Academic Supports Update Universal Meals Update 2nd Interim Budget Approval Full agenda posted here. February Board Meeting Summary can be found here.  

    Tuesday, Mar 17 2026

  • PVSD Newsletter | February 8, 2026

    Portola Valley School District District Newsletter February 8, 2026 Superintendent's New Year's Message Dear Portola Valley School District Families and Community, This week’s newsletter includes several important updates and opportunities to stay engaged with our schools. We invite you to share your input on the district’s thoughtful exploration of Artificial Intelligence through a brief community survey, which will help guide the work of our AI Task Force. You’ll also find reminders about enrollment intentions and new student registration for the 2026–27 school year, details about the upcoming PVSF Fanfare fundraiser, volunteer opportunities for the countywide STEM Fair, updates to ParentSquare text messaging, and information about our next Governing Board meeting. Thank you for your continued partnership and support of our students and schools. Warm Regards, Roberta   PVSD Community Input: AI in Our Schools PVSD is thoughtfully exploring how to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) in ways that enhance learning while keeping students safe and supported. Your input is essential. Feedback from this survey will help inform the work of the PVSD AI Task Force—made up of parents, community members, and staff—as we develop district guidelines that reflect our community’s values and priorities.  Please take a few minutes to complete this brief survey by Monday February 23 at 5:00 PM.  Thank you! The PVSD AI Task Force   2026 - 2027 PVSD Student Enrollment Intention Form In order to help the District plan for next school year’s enrollment, we ask that each family take about five minutes to complete this enrollment intention form for each currently-enrolled child in grades TK-7th grade (as well as for new students who will be age-eligible for PVSD enrollment in 2026-2027) by February 12, 2026 at 5 pm.     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!   Rhinestone Rodeo - PVSF Fanfare Event Tickets The 2026 Fanfare event, Rhinestone Rodeo is March 21, 2026 & Tickets go on sale Monday, Feb 9th. Join us for a boots-not-bowties fundraiser benefiting our incredible schools. Bid on unique experiences in the silent and live auction, join unforgettable buy-in parties, and enjoy a DJ, margarita truck, Capelo’s barbecue, specialty churros—even a mechanical bull! So saddle up and save the date: March 21, 6-10 pm, at Ormondale Elementary School. HOW CAN I HELP? Parent support is the engine that drives every PVSF Fanfare event. Thank you to all of the families who have already agreed to host a buy-in party, support a teacher event, or donate to the silent auction. At this time, we are seeking additional support for the silent auction and teacher-led buy-in parties: Every donation helps! If you are ready to donate, please fill out the google form   Judges Needed for San Mateo County’s 39th Annual STEM Fair Community volunteers are needed to judge student projects for San Mateo County Office of Education’s upcoming STEM Fair, held virtually on March 14, 2026. This event is for students from all of San Mateo County. Volunteer Qualifications: To qualify as a judge, you must meet one of the following criteria:  A Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in a STEM field. 5+ years of professional experience in a related field. A valid teaching credential. (Please note: A volunteer only needs 1 of these 3 criteria to be a judge.) Commitment Details: Prep Work: 10–12 hours of project review (the week prior). Fair Day: Available virtually on March 14, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Tasks: Review and score approximately 10–15 student entries. Volunteers are the heart of this event— San Mateo County truly can’t do it without you! Register to Judge on the STEM Fair Website   A Change to How You’ll Get Texts From Our School/District Soon, many of the text messages you get from our school and district will come from regular 10-digit phone numbers. This will make it easier to see who is messaging you. For example, a message from your child’s teacher will come from a different phone number than a message from the school office.  What’s changing?  Right now, most texts come from a 5-digit number. Soon, you’ll start getting texts from different regular 10-digit phone numbers for:  Direct messages Classroom and group posts School posts  Messages from the district, digests and alerts will still come from the 5-digit number.  What should you do? When you receive a message from one of these new 10-digit numbers, save it to your contacts. Here are some suggestions: Save a teacher’s number as: Ms. Davis - 4th Grade Save classroom/group posts as: Lincoln Elementary Classes Save school posts number as: Lincoln Elementary Updates Read more about this change and some helpful tips: Changes to ParentSquare Text Messages.   PVSD Governing Board Meeting Updates You're invited to the upcoming governing board meeting on Thursday February 12, 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 Math Update Midyear Local Control Accountability Plan Update Governor's Preliminary Budget Review 2026-27 Facilities Update Ormondale Student Showcase Full agenda posted here. January Board Meeting Summary can be found here.  

    Monday, Feb 09 2026

  • 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