COMMUNITY CONNECT FEBRUARY 2026 | VOLUME 6 | EDITION 7
LEARN, GROW, CELEBRATE & APPRECIATE
There is a lot to celebrate in February. Not only do we take the time to treasure our 'loved' ones, but take a look at some of what the California Department of Education recognizes and honors this month: American Heart Month ~ Black History Month ~ National Children's Dental Health Month National Freedom Day (2/1/2026) ~ Rosa Parks Day (2/4/2026) ~ Ronald Reagan Day (2/6/2026) National School Counseling Week (February 2–8, 2026) ~ Lincoln Day (2/12/2026) Take Your Family to School Week (February 16–20, 2026) ~ Frederick Douglass Day (2/14/2026) Susan B. Anthony Day (2/15/2026) ~ Presidents Day (2/16/2026) ~ Washington Day (2/16/2026) Lunar New Year (2/17/2026) ~ National Parent Teacher Association Founders Day (2/17/2026) Ramadan Begins (2/17/2026) ~ Lent Begins (2/18/2026) These observances provide a rich tapestry of learning, growth, celebration, and appreciation. We are particularly thankful for our PUHSD Counselors who inspire and guide our students during their high school years and beyond, and our parent groups who support all of our school communities.
Sarah Rath, Communications Officer Sarah Rath Please remember we honor President’s Lincoln and Washington on 2.9.26 and 2.16.26 so there is no school on those days (Holidays). Happy February,
Official Newsletter of the Placer Union High School District
February Board Meeting Tuesday - February 17, 2026 5:30 pm RVO Meeting Room 13000 New Airport Road | Auburn
Superintendent Message As we enter the second month of this term, students will have the chance to choose their courses for the upcoming year. Each of our comprehensive sites hosts a ‘Course Preview Day’ where students can explore various academic and elective opportunities. Additionally,
students will meet one-on-one with their Counselors to confirm that they are enrolled in the necessary courses for graduation and aligned with their future goals. It's important to take advantage of these opportunities, to ask questions, and gather as much information as possible. I am extremely proud of the Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways and opportunities within our District. These courses can provide valuable skills and real-world experience that will enhance our students’ educational journeys. Our CTE programs are designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and the career landscape, equipping students with hands-on experience in fields such as technology, health sciences, and the arts. These pathways not only foster critical thinking and creativity but also prepare students for the challenges of tomorrow's workforce. Whether students are interested in agriculture, culinary arts, or digital media, there's a pathway that can ignite their passion and set them on the path to success. The recent podcast episode highlights two of our programs - one at Colfax High School and one at Del Oro High School. Each of our campuses has invaluable opportunities for our students to access in a variety of industricy sectors. The following image is a snapshot about CTE. Remember, our dedicated staff is here
to support all of our students in exploring these pathways every step of the way. Let's make this a productive and exciting time for everyone involved! Have a great month,
Tom
Apply now to become one of next year’s PUHSD Student Board Members!
The application window for the 2026-2027 Student Board Member positions is OPEN!
The Student Board Members provide the PUHSD Board of Trustees and the Superintendent with information regarding student interests and concerns gathered through diverse student populations and ideas thereby enhancing relevance and effectiveness of many school site and District programs. Eligibility : Interested students who are currently sophomores and juniors at one of our comprehensive sites (Colfax, Del Oro, Foresthill, or Placer) may apply to serve for the following school year. Applicants should be in good standing in their academics, community, and with their social peers. One representative from each school will be selected by a vote of the school’s student body (Grades 9-11).
Student Voice in Board Governance
WHY SHOULD YOU BE A STUDENT BOARD MEMBER? “Great opportunity to represent your peers” “ Student Board Member is a great addition to college applications” “A great way to earn the California State Seal of Civic Engagement”
“Be involved in and learn about Board governance”
All Student Board Members receive a $1250 continuing-education scholarship upon completion of their term.
Visit the PUHSD Website: Go to the "Board of Trustees" tab, click on the "Student Board Members" page for information and application QR Code to Website/Page
Deadline to apply is February 27, 2026
If you have questions or would like more information, we encourage you to speak with your Principal.
STATE SEAL OF CIVIC ENGAGEMENT (SSCE) Be recognized for demonstrating an understanding of civic knowledge, civic skills and action, quality student reflection, and have testimony of student civic-mindedness.
Background
Placer Union High School District (PUHSD) developed and approved the District State Seal for Civic Engagement criteria on August 7th, 2024. We want to recognize and celebrate students for what they are doing to advocate for and serve the needs of our community and our democratic society. PUHSD Adoption
The California State Board of Education (SBE) now awards the SSCE to all California students who demonstrate excellence in civics education through civic participation and an understanding of the United States Constitution, the California Constitution, and the democratic system of government.
State Seal of Civic Engagement Project & Application
Where Please visit the PUHSD webpage dedicated to the SSCE to learn more. PUHSD TIMELINE for the 2025-2026 school year: The State Seal of Civic Engagement (SSCE) application deadline is March 26, 2026.
ACT NOW! You may already be doing things that will help you qualify for this seal! Seals are placed on Diplomas signifying the achievement.
PLACER UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
National School Counseling Week
National School Counseling Week is February 2 through February 6th this year! Our School Counselors are the unsung heroes on our campuses as they work tirelessly to provide social, emotional, and academic support to all of our students! nd Be sure to let them know how much you appreciate them! Thank You Counselors!!!!
The following icons are links to our sites' Counseling Pages or home page. There is a lot of resources put on these pages by the Counseling staff...upcoming college visits, how to
enroll for a class at Sierra College, what a FAFSA is and why it's important, academic guidance by grade level, transcript requests and so much more . Be sure to check these sites often as they are invaluable...just like the Counselors and support staff in our Counseling Offices.
We ’ re all here for the students because that ’ s...
The
P INT
SEAS N 3 It’s hard to believe that we are starting the third season of our podcast episodes! Superintendent O’Malley and Deputy Superintendent Dr. Caminiti will be co-hosting. We’ll be airing an episode per month over the course of the school year. Be sure to follow us on Spotify! Episode #1 (25-26) ~ Welcome Back!!
Podcasts will be aired once a month during the school year (unless that needs
adjusting due to topics/schedule).
Follow us on Spotify
Episode #2 (25-26) ~ Clubs on Campuses Episode #3 (25-26) ~ College Visits & More!
Episode #4 (25-26) ~ Maidu Virtual Charter Academy Episode #5 (25-26) ~ Reflection on Fall 2025 Term Episode #6 (25-26) ~ Career Technical Education (CTE)
Stuffed animals for display purposes only
Placer and Confluence High Schools will be the showcase at the February 17, 2026 Board Meeting. Come hear all of the great things happening on these campuses!!
PLACER HIGH SCHOOL
Placer High School is the District's first high school with the year 1897 marking the beginning. Originally named Auburn High School, the first graduating class in 1900 consisted of 10 students. Five of them went on to attend the University of California. Placer High School's history and rich traditions are evident on the campus. The attendance boundaries are Auburn and the surrounding areas. Placer's current enrollment is approximately 1,200 students. "In the best of times, the worst of times,
Placer offers a wide variety of activities for student engagement. These include band, FFA, student government, and career technical classes. Additionally, Placer High School offers a variety of clubs to give students the opportunity to socialize with other students with common interests and talents. Most clubs meet once a month to plan, organize and develop club activities, events and/or community improvements and partnerships. Clubs are free and open to students and there is no limit to the number of clubs a student can join. Placer High School has over 700 student athletes participating in at least one of the many sports offered. Placer is part of the Foothill Valley League.
and at all times, it is great to be a Hillmen!"
Placer High School 275 Orange Street Auburn, CA 95603
Placer High School is FULL of traditions and history established over many decades that continue to thrive today. One event is the Kendall Arnett Basketball Tournament. Like years in the past, this year’s 83rd Championship Game came down to two of our PUHSD schools - Del Oro and Placer. It is always a great event to attend and the history behind it, makes it even more special. KENDALL ARNETT BASKETBALL TOURNEY
Thank you Brenn Montafi for putting this story together!!
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CONFLUENCE HIGH SCHOOL ( P l a cer Ca mpus ) A ltern a tive E duc a tion H igh S chools (Placer Campus) Alternative Education High Schools
School as Community, Community as School
A main component of education at Confluence High School is the LTI (Learning through Interests) internship program. In internships with an expert mentor in a field of the student’s interest, students complete an authentic project that benefits both the student and the mentor’s worksite. These projects are a key part of deepening student learning and academic growth. Internships provide students with multiple opportunities to explore fields of interest, interact professionally with adults in a variety of areas, and complete real-world projects that develop their academic skills. POWERED BY A PASSIONATE STAFF COMMITTED TO REAL-WORLD LEARNING & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Students, parents, and Confluence staff work together to secure internships for students based on each student’s interest area. Through the search process, students develop networking and communication skills, self-advocacy, and initiative. Students are encouraged to stretch outside of their comfort zone and immerse themselves in the adult world.
Confluence High School 275 Orange Street Auburn, CA 95603
From the desk of Crystal Eatherton, Director Child Nutrition Services Department
OUT & ABOUT IN THE DISTRICT
CHOOL BUDGETS
MASTER SCHEDULES
As students complete their course previews and begin the process of selecting courses for the upcoming school year, the work of creating the 2026-2027 master schedules starts in earnest. This intricate task involves collaboration among school administrators, department heads, and counselors, all working together to ensure that each student has access to the courses they need and desire. The process typically starts with analyzing student course requests and matching them with available resources. This includes evaluating teacher availability and credential certification, classroom space, and any prerequisites required for advanced courses. Administrators then use this information to draft a preliminary schedule, which is often adjusted multiple times to accommodate changes in student enrollment numbers or staffing. Ultimately, the goal is to create a master schedule that maximizes educational opportunities, supports diverse learning needs, and aligns with the District/school's mission and values.
HOW CLASS SIZES ARE DETERMINED
High school class sizes are determined by balancing what is best for students with the practical realities of staffing, facilities, and funding. Each year, students complete the course selection process and meet one-on-one with their counselor to ensure they are on track for graduation and personal goals. Based on that information, schools then build a master schedule and assign teachers to courses. When many students need or request the same class—such as English, Math, or Science—those classes may be larger simply because they are required for graduation. Class size is also influenced by: The number of available teachers and their credentials District and State guidelines for class size Classroom space and safety limits, especially in labs or hands-on courses Budget considerations and constraints Some classes are intentionally smaller, such as specialized electives, advanced courses, or classes that serve students who need additional academic support. While we aim to keep class sizes at an ideal level, enrollment changes, scheduling needs, and our budget constraints make variations unavoidable. Administrators regularly review class sizes and make adjustments when possible to best support student learning.
CAASPP TESTING DATES!!! The CAASPP State-wide testing happens in the CAASPP (ELA, Math, Science) 11th Graders
Spring. CAASPP stands for the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress, California's statewide testing program that measures student achievement in English Language Arts/Literacy (ELA), Math, and Science to gauge college and career readiness. The results help schools improve instruction and better support students.
Colfax: April 15, 16, 22, 23 Placer & Confluence: April 14, 15, 21, 22 Del Oro & Confluence West: April 16, 17, 21, 22
Foresthill: April 15, 16, 17, 20 Maidu: April 22, 23, 29, 30
Students’ presence and effort matter. Being at school, prepared, and giving their best on testing days helps reflect what they know and supports them and our school communities. HELP NEEDED !!!
Unfortunately, each of our campuses is experiencing devastating vandalism to bathrooms. This results in closures and costly repairs. Last year, the District spent over $60,000 repairing the vandalized facilities. These monies could be used to support school programs instead of these unnecessarily damaged spaces. We need help to address this issue. Unfortunately, school staff cannot be in all areas of campus throughout the day to stop these incidents from happening. We need all of our school communities to come together to find solutions and help promote a culture of respect and responsibility. Let’s hold each other accountable and take pride in our schools. If you see something, say something! Your voice matters, and together, we can make a positive change.
13000 New Airport Road Auburn, CA 95603 Phone: 530.886.4400 Fax: 530.886.4449 Placer Union High School District
LET’S connect
The Placer Union High School District (PUHSD) is committed to ensuring equal, fair, and meaningful access to employment and education services and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. PUHSD understands and will address the intersectionality of identities and how they can lead to unique forms of discrimination or harassment. PUHSD prohibits discrimination, harassment (including sexual harassment), intimidation, or bullying in any employment practice, education program, or educational activity on the basis and/or association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics of age, ancestry, color, ethnic group identification, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical information, national origin, disability, parental status, political affiliation, pregnancy and related conditions, race, religion, retaliation, sex, sexual orientation, military or veterans status, homelessness, foster status, or any other basis prohibited by California state and federal nondiscrimination laws consistent with Education Code 200 and 220, Government Code 11135, and Title IX. If you believe you have been subjected to discrimination, harassment (including sexual harassment), intimidation, or bullying, you should contact Title IX Coordinator (Students) Steve Caminiti, 13000 New Airport Road, Auburn, 530.886.4402, scaminiti@puhsd.k12.ca.us; Title II (Students) and Section 504 Coordinator Carrie Warda, 13000 New Airport Road, Auburn, 530.886.4433, cwarda@puhsd.k12.ca.us; and/or Title IX and Title II Coordinator (Staff) Elena DalFavero, 13000 New Airport Road, Auburn, 530.886.4426, edalfavero@puhsd.k12.ca.us.
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