As we head into Spring Break, I want to take a moment to thank our students, staff, and families for the energy and dedication you bring to our schools each day. The weeks leading up to this break have been filled with meaningful learning, student achievements, caregiver volunteerism, and community celebrations across Castro Valley Unified.

From students competing at statewide academic conferences to cultural celebrations and events that bring our school communities together, it is inspiring to see our students exploring their passions, supporting one another, and representing Castro Valley with pride.

Spring Break offers an important opportunity for everyone to pause, recharge, and spend time with family and friends. I hope this time provides moments of rest and renewal for our students, staff, and families.

When we return, we will enter the final stretch of the school year, a time filled with continued learning, performances, competitions, and celebrations as we prepare to honor the accomplishments of our graduating seniors and the many milestones our students achieve throughout the spring.

Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting our students and schools. Wishing all of our Castro Valley Unified families a safe, relaxing, and joyful Spring Break.

Warmly,

Dr. Nia Rashidchi

Superintendent, Castro Valley Unified School District

Students, staff, and families recently came together for the “We Are INDY” event, a celebration of the unique culture, pride, and spirit of the school community. The event highlighted student voice, creativity, and the strong sense of belonging that defines the campus.

From student performances and activities to opportunities for families to connect with staff and one another, the evening reflected what makes Castro Valley schools special — a community that supports and celebrates every student.

Students also enjoyed a vibrant lion dance assembly, where performers brought traditional music, movement, and storytelling to life. Assemblies like this help students experience and learn about different cultural traditions while building excitement and school spirit.

Moments like these help create inclusive learning environments where students can explore culture, history, and global traditions in engaging and memorable ways.

CVHS students in Ms. Bittner's Ceramics classes are competing in the Lowell Milken Center ARTEFFECT Unsung Heroes program. Students bring history to life by researching an unsung hero of the past to gain inspiration for a ceramic art piece. Students research and write a biographical Impact Statement celebrating the individual and their positive contribution to world history. 

Students will additionally submit their entries to the National ArtEFFECT competition during the week; students are eligible to win prizes from the Lowell Milken Center.

Several CVUSD leaders recently attended the California Association of Asian & Pasifika Leaders in Education (CAAPLE) Conference, which focused on strengthening leadership, community connection, and culturally responsive practices in schools.

The conference also recognized Castro Valley High School senior Maggie Xie, who received the Aspiring Young Advocates Award for founding the Red Envelope Collective, a student-led initiative that promotes Asian heritage and youth leadership.

We are proud of the leadership demonstrated by both our students and staff in representing Castro Valley Unified at the statewide event.