Trustees present for the closed session: Cornes, Katz, Levich, Ortiz, Vonnegut
Trustees present for the open session: Cornes, Katz, Levich, Ortiz, Vonnegut, Lai (Student), Schwarzhoff (Student)
STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
Throughout each school year, the MVLA Board of Trustees recognizes the achievements and accomplishments of selected students: MVLA Students of the Month.
Students are selected for this honor based on a variety of factors. A prerequisite for selection as a Student of the Month is outstanding academic achievement, defined as a weighted current GPA of 3.5 or higher, although other factors may be considered in the selection process.
These other factors may include but are not limited to extracurricular successes, community service, character values, involvement on campus, exemplary leadership skills and/or outstanding accomplishments outside of school. Students of the Month shall exemplify the core values, qualities, and vision of the MVLA District.
Some examples of past Student of the Month recipients include academic scholars, presidents of active clubs, multiple sport student-athletes, and students who are widely involved in organizations on campus.
Broad school involvement is not a prerequisite for selection, but all Student of the Month recipients must demonstrate a positive work ethic, moral character, and an appreciation for our community’s diversity.
Jerry Liang, Freestyle Academy, Student of the Year
MVLA proudly honors Freestyle Student of the Year, Jerry Liang. For two consecutive years, Jerry Liang has brought consistent excellence, open-mindedness, and community commitment to our English class and campus culture. He is a sensitive listener who pays close attention to the ideas and needs of others and then takes the initiative to reach out, offer help, and make his classmates feel supported. Congratulations Jerry on this outstanding recognition...Read full write up here.
Jack Clark, Freestyle Academy, Most Improved Student
MVLA congratulates Freestyle Academy's Most Improved Student, Jack Clark on his achievement.
Jack has shown impressive growth as a student, storyteller, and creative collaborator. He is a kind, inquisitive, and imaginative presence in our English class, and what has stood out most is the way his confidence has steadily grown as he has learned to communicate his ideas with greater clarity and purpose. Jack has developed not only a stronger creative voice, but also a greater willingness to revise, reflect, and push his ideas further...
Board members share highlights and information related to their involvement in a variety of meetings and community events. (In speaking order - Listen to full comments by clicking on board member's name below.)
Dr. Esme Ortiz: MVLA Foundation, AVID, College Readiness, and Parent Feedback Survey.
Ms. Catherine Vonnegut: MVLA Foundation grant to MVLA, District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC), LAHS PTSA.
I’m excited to share a few updates that highlight both the academic dedication and student life on our campus.
At this time, AP exams are now in full swing, and students across campus are demonstrating their hard work and preparation. Over the past several weeks, classrooms have been focused on review and skill-building, and it’s been great to see students approach these exams with focus and determination. We’re proud of the effort they’ve put in and wish them continued success throughout the testing period.
In addition to this academic focus, our Student Community Leadership class recently hosted an “Eagle Recharge” week, centered on supporting student wellness during a busy and often stressful time. Activities included a pajama day, interactive games, and small giveaways, all designed to help students relax, recharge, and feel supported. Events like these play an important role in maintaining a positive school climate and reminding students to take care of their well-being.
Another exciting event was the Dance team’s annual Dance Showcase, led by our wonderful dance teacher, Ms. April Oliver. Together, all three of the dance classes created a beautiful and engaging showcase of their talents through the “Midnight in Manhattan” theme, with students participating as not just dancers but also choreographers.
Looking ahead to the post-AP exam period, our ASB is preparing to host their annual dodgeball tournaments, a highly anticipated event on campus. Team signups are currently underway, and students are already showing excitement as they organize teams and get ready to participate. The tournament provides a fun and inclusive way for students to stay engaged and celebrate the end of a demanding academic season.
Overall, it’s been a busy time on campus, with students balancing rigorous academics alongside opportunities for connection and school spirit. Thank you for your continued support of our students and programs. (Written by Lucy Lai, Student Board Rep, LAHS.)
As we enter the final stretch of the school year, our campus is filled with activity as students balance academics, events, and end-of-year celebrations.
Currently, our school is in the midst of AP testing, making this one of the busiest academic periods of the year. Clubs are holding their final meetings and have submitted re-registration materials for next year, including budget reviews, advisor confirmations, and leadership selections. The final COPS, a quarterly info meeting for all club presidents, was held during tutorial last Friday, where students received information about upcoming events and guidance on finishing the year strong. Athletics are advancing into league finals and CCS competitions and the visual and performing arts are also active with the annual student art show, choir performances, and instrumental finals.
Another major schoolwide event approaching is prom, which will take place on Saturday, the 16th from 7–10 PM at Coyote Ranch. The theme is Tangled, and this is the final week of ticket sales, available until Friday at 3 PM for $90 with ASB and $95 without.
Most importantly, as we move through May, the entire school is preparing for the end of the year and graduation. Senior preparations are already underway, including planning meetings and the selection of student speakers. To celebrate seniors committing to their future plans by May 1st, we held a spirit day last Friday, where seniors wore attire representing their next steps, creating a strong sense of community across campus.
During brunch, hundreds of seniors gathered in the back parking lot for photos, with more taken during lunch alongside the junior vs. senior flag football game and the filming of the senior sign-off video. This video, shown at the end-of-year rally, features each senior “signing” the camera lens as a memorable sendoff. And finally, across campus, preparations are underway for end-of-year spirit week and the rally on Monday, with details to be shared soon on Instagram.
Thank you for your continued support of our students and school community. We look forward to closing out the year by celebrating their accomplishments. (Written by Claire Schwarzhoff, Student Board Rep, MVHS.)
Discussion of how/when technology is used in our alternative education programs
Freestyle Exhibition & Graduation in late May
AVHS Closing Activities
Express Your Culture Week with thanks to support from AVHS Leadership Club, LAHS School and Community Leadership, Mentor Tutor Connection, Elevate, League of Women Voters, and West Valley Water Polo.
May 17-23, 2026, has been designated as Classified School Employees Week by the California School Employees Association and the State legislature. The theme this year is "Students Thrive Where Classified Work".
May 13, 2026, will be California's 44th Annual Day of the Teacher. The second Wednesday in May is designated in Education Code 37222 to receognize teachers in our state. The theme this year is "California Public Schools: Home to All Students".
