March 28, 2025 Please note: Friday Brights will resume publication on Friday, April 18, following Spring Break (April 7-11). Wishing you a wonderful and safe Spring Break! |
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Board Member Corner: Shelley Clark |
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The past month has been a whirlwind of activity, beginning with a meeting with Assembly Member Rebecca Bauer-Kahan to advocate for increased funding for our district. It's vital that we continue to raise our voices in support of higher base funding under the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF).
One of the most rewarding aspects of being a board member is attending our students' music and instrumental performances. In March, I had the pleasure of attending both the Cal High and SRVHS feeder school choir events. We are fortunate to have such talented students and dedicated performing arts educators. Other highlights this month included the Town of Danville Liaison meeting, the Founder's Day celebration with the SRVCPTA, my regular visit to the Student Senate, and the SLAM meeting at SRVHS. I also enjoyed attending the “Be Reel” Video Contest for Street Smarts at the Village Theater, where our students showcased impressive creativity and messaging around bike safety.
On March 19th, we celebrated our Classified Employees of the Year with an awards ceremony at John Baldwin Elementary. It was a meaningful opportunity to recognize their hard work and dedication. I wrapped up the week with site visits alongside Superintendent Cammack to Dougherty Valley High School, John Baldwin Elementary, Hidden Hills Elementary, and Bella Vista Elementary. It’s always inspiring to see the great work happening across our schools. |
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#WeAreSRVUSD: Cammack Connection |
As I’ve often shared, visiting schools, talking with students, and experiencing the energy on a campus reaffirm why I choose to work in education and deepen my appreciation for the incredible work happening at our schools.
This week, I spent time at John Baldwin, Rancho Romero, Hidden Hills, and Bella Vista. Hearing directly from the students and staff gives me a better understanding of what is happening at the ground level- what we are doing well, where we need to improve, and what our priorities must be moving forward. At Rancho Romero, I heard about the “Positivity Project”, where students cheer on one another’s successes. Initiatives like this are a powerful reminder of the importance of building a culture of encouragement and support.
This week, four of our schools were named 2025 California Distinguished Schools- Creekside, Greenbrook, John Baldwin, and Neil Armstrong. This recognition acknowledges the excellent learning and teaching happening not only at these schools but across our entire district. I am extremely proud of our students and staff, and as a firsthand witness to their passion and resilience, I am continually inspired by their commitment to excellence.
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SRVUSD is proud to have many former students return to the district as employees. These staff members have lifelong connections with our community, and our students benefit! This week, we highlight Kerri Knapp, Teacher Librarian at Dougherty Valley High. |
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School Highlight: Deep Learning and Innovation in Action |
At Green Valley Elementary, creativity and kindness take center stage! “Maker Space” Instructional Assistant Meredith Goelding has been leading students through two hands-on projects that inspire both innovation and compassion. Younger students, with the help of some 4th graders, created a kindness banner- a visible reminder that how we treat one another matters. For the second project, multiple classes reimagined an outdoor area. Student teams designed and constructed models entirely from recycled materials, presenting their visions to teachers and soon to the PTA. As they research materials and funding for their design, they are gaining real-world knowledge and experience. Using Learner Profile skills such as critical thinking and collaboration, these young makers are turning their ideas into action and building a brighter, kinder future for their school and beyond.
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*Correction: Last week, we mistakenly shared that Windemere Ranch science teacher Mrs. Acquistapace received an SRVEF grant to fund two student labs. The labs were actually made possible through a grant from the Windemere Ranch Education Foundation. |
This week, the Contra Costa County Elections Department visited Dougherty Valley High School to recognize student poll worker volunteers! With over 30 students stepping up to serve on Election Day in November—more than any other school in the county—DVHS proved its commitment to democracy in action.
From setting up polling stations to assisting voters to ensure a smooth election process, students impressed officials with their knowledge, quick learning, and positive energy. Each student received a certificate and a pin as a token of appreciation for their outstanding service. A huge shoutout to these civically minded students and the teachers who inspire them to take an active role in the democratic process. Way to go, Wildcats!
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The Hidden Hills staff knows how to keep things fun! Lately, they’ve planned a few Reverse Spirit Days where they pick a theme and wait to see if the students catch on. What was a recent challenge? ‘Drink out of anything but a cup’ day. From trophies to flower pots, the staff got creative. Did the students notice? You bet they did! These little moments of unexpected fun bring joy and camaraderie to our campuses and remind us that school spirit isn’t just for students! |
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Four SRVUSD elementary schools have been named 2025 California Distinguished Schools by the California Department of Education!
Congratulations to the students and staff at Creekside, Greenbrook, John Baldwin, and Neil Armstrong. We are so proud to celebrate this prestigious award and the incredible teaching and learning happening across all our campuses. Read our recent press release for more information. |
Talk with a Trustee: Upcoming Opportunities |
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SRVUSD IMPORTANT INFORMATION Ethnic Studies Curriculum: Community Preview and Feedback until April 21, 2025
We invite our community to review the proposed Ethnic Studies curriculum and provide feedback on this new graduation requirement for incoming 9th grade students next school year. Adoption of the instructional materials is planned for the April 22, 2025, Board of Education meeting. The materials are also available for in-person viewing at the District Office, Building C, 699 Old Orchard Drive, Danville, from 7:30 am - 4:00 pm Monday through Friday. See the Ethnic Studies webpage for more information, or refer to the letter sent to all families on March 20th.
- Student Cell Phone Policy Forums and Feedback Form
Space is still available at the Student Virtual Cell Phone Forums on March 31 and April 2. Middle and High School students can sign up to give feedback on the creation of SRVUSD’s Cell Phone Board Policy. Anyone who missed the prior forum opportunities can view the presentation and share their feedback through this Google Form, which closes April 4, 2025.
- Culture of Responsiveness Survey
On March 24th, you should have received this survey link directly from the district, asking you to tell us how we are doing and to help guide our culture of responsiveness work moving forward. Please take 10 minutes to complete the survey before April 4, 2025.
Student Applications for County Board of Education
The Contra Costa County Board of Education (CCCBOE) is now accepting applications for a student member for the 2025-26 school year from rising juniors and seniors. The Board will accept applications until Friday, April 18, 2025, at 5 p.m. The position comes with a monthly stipend of $250. For more information, please visit https://bit.ly/4iUdWIl.
OPPORTUNITIES -
Redefining Mobility Student Art Contest
April 11, 2025 submission deadline
The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) is sponsoring an Art & Engineering Design Contest open to all high school students in Contra Costa County. The contest features two categories: an “Art in Any Medium” and an “Engineering Design” challenge. First prize is $1,000.
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