Superintendent's Newsletter

You may also read the Superintendent's Newsletter on our homepage in the "Latest Headlines" section.

All of our schools enthusiastically participated in the Hour of Code this month to celebrate Computer Science Week. From December 5 through December 15, students took a deep dive into coding. Thanks to funding from the Los Altos Education Foundation (LAEF), all students at all grade levels receive top-quality computer science education through our STEM and CSTEM programs. Learn more from LAEF about our computer science curriculum at every grade level here.

Los Altos School District is a pioneer in computer science education, beginning its program in 2009. Our district is one of the first to implement "Computer Science for All," with all K-8 students learning to code and integrate this skill into other content areas.

LASD's computer science program provides early access to coding and allows students to harness their creativity for projects that are personally relevant. Project-based learning, small group lessons and peer reviews help students hone their collaboration skills through computer science education.

Learn more about computer science in LASD by watching the video below.

This month, our junior high school students put their creativity and entrepreneurial skills to work at the annual Holiday Faires. Although participation is voluntary, the majority of students at both schools participate in the annual event.

Students work individually or in groups to generate ideas, design their products, create business plans, and make unique display booths to market their handcrafted wares at the Holiday Faire. The Holiday Faire challenges students to reach beyond their comfort zones to challenge themselves, creating products they market to their clientele. This community event provides great learning opportunities for students, but also gives back to the school. Much of the proceeds and registration fees are donated to Blach and Egan to support libraries, school events, and educational resources.

With a focus on educational equity for all children, our administrators and teachers always look for opportunities to support students in need.

This month, Almond Elementary School partnered with the Los Altos Assistance League to bolster literacy education for eighteen TK-5th grade students through a fun and educational event. After reading the students a story in the library, Almond's Principal Raquel Matteroli provided each student with a package of 5 grade-appropriate books to boost their home libraries, challenge their literacy skills and inspire their love of reading. Each student left the event with the "homework" to choose their favorite book from the collection, which they will read to a volunteer in January when they return from winter break.

We want to thank the Los Altos Assistance League for its support and generously providing all of the students' books. Community partnerships like these are a big reason why we can provide an excellent education to every child and ensure all students achieve to the highest standards.

Your school's PTA and the Los Altos Educational Foundation support your child's learning by funding critical educational materials, classroom instruction and vital academic programs. If you haven't had the chance to donate yet, please consider giving your tax deductible donation before the end of the year by visiting LAEF or your school's PTA web page today! For more information on why these donations are so critical to protecting top quality education in LASD, please check out this video. Thank you for supporting our neighborhood schools.

Website: losaltosschools.org
Location: 201 Covington Road, Los Altos, CA, USA