Last week, Señora Molina, her Spanish students, and faculty guests organized a captivating Dia De Los Muertos assembly for the Upper School. Milton Lopez-Plascencia '25 served as the host, introducing Camila Cuevas '27 as Frida Kahlo, interviewed in Spanish by other Spanish 4 Honors students. Sra. Molina recited a beautiful poem, followed by Katja Broomberg '25 moving rendition of La Llorona, accompanied by Mr. Chiment, Mr. Wallace, and Mr. Shertzer on guitars. Spanish 3 Honors students concluded with songs from the film Coco, and everyone savored pan de muerto in the senior quad, where an ofrenda was displayed.

During yesterday's assembly, our US students were honored to host a special guest, Robert Swan. Revered as one of the most extraordinary explorers in history, Mr. Swan holds the distinction of being the first individual to journey to both the North and South Poles on foot. He is a globally recognized champion for renewable energy and a highly acclaimed public speaker.

On Saturday, Performing Arts students in Grades 7-12 performed alongside Providence students in the Vocal Ensemble showcasing tunes from cherished Broadway shows. The Vocal Ensemble consisted of Maritza Barrera '27, Madalyn Becerra '25, Asher Gottesdiener '26, Camilla Joffrey '27, Violet Johnson '29, Scarlett Lustfield '26, Opal Peltz '25, Paisley Thomson '28, and Grace Trautwein '24. Stage crew: Shaia Engel '27 and Cooper Green '27.

Sixth Grade French learners researched the Eiffel Tower, creating presentations on its creator Gustave Eiffel, highlighting fun facts like its expansion in higher temperatures, and crafting impressive tower models from recycled materials or anything available around the house. The students' sculptures will be showcased in a library contest for the Best Tour Eiffel, with voting open until December 20. Madame Maillard encourages all students and staff to submit their ballots!

In a cross-grade level collaboration, first graders teamed up with Ms. Molina's Upper School Spanish Class to craft Ojo De Dios, or "God's Eye," in their Lower School Spanish class. This cultural activity originated a couple of years ago from a former first grade student, Olive Mathern '33. Under the guidance of Lower School Spanish Teacher Maestra Martinez and with assistance from Upper School friends, Olive—now in third grade—led the class in weaving their vibrant Ojo De Dios. Maestra Martinez shared insights into the Huichol Tribe, fostering an understanding of the craft's cultural roots in the Sierra Madre mountains of Mexico. Beyond cultural appreciation, the Ojo De Dios project enhances fine motor skills, eye-hand coordination, and fosters creativity. This collaborative effort also aligns with the first grade ethos of teamwork, where students learn together and take turns being teachers.

Upper School students from the Foodbank Club are hosting a food drive for Thanksgiving and looking for donations next week November 13-17. Bags of non-perishable and canned food can be dropped off in designated boxes in the Middle and Upper School drop-off/pick-up areas in Hope Ranch.

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, the club, All Voices Heard along with Director of DEI (Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion) Ms. Chan distributed packets of California Native Wildflower seeds to our community. They want to recognize that Native Americans are the original caretakers and stewards of this land, and part of taking care of the land we live on is ensuring our biodiversity is healthy and supportive of our wildlife.

Get your hands on our exclusive Holiday Glass Ornaments by Laguna Wear, featuring an elegant etching of Laguna Blanca 2023. Each 3-inch ornament comes in a beautiful box, making it the perfect addition to any festive tree or bush. Act fast—limited stock available.

Mingle with other Laguna Blanca parents whilst enjoying wine tasting and snacks. Adults 21+. Advance ticket purchase required ($45).

Come along for a leisurely 4-mile hike. The group will wait 5-10 minutes before setting off. No registration needed. Any questions, please contact Philippe d'Offay.

Meet the committee chairs and learn all about the Golden Oak Gala event which takes place on March 16, 2024. We will discuss details of the event and the various committee volunteer opportunities.

Come socialize and have fun playing a friendly pickleball game, which is open to all levels! A coach will be on hand for instruction. Registration required ($35).

Join our new Book Club's inaugural meeting at Gina Nelson's home. Bring book suggestions and a small dish or bottle to share. Together, we will choose our first book and set a date and time for our next meeting. Email Gina for the address and to RSVP.

Head of School Ron Cino invites all parents and caregivers for some holiday cheer, Please join us for drinks and light bites. Kindly RSVP by December 1.

The Family Association is hosting a Holiday Luncheon for all parents and caregivers. Please join us for festive food, Lower School carolers, and holiday camaraderie. Kindly RSVP by December 4 (capacity is limited to 100 guests).

Gr. 7-8 Dance

6:30-8:30PM

Gr. 5 Holiday Musical

For all parents

Lower School Winter Concert

Music Academy of the West

6-7:30PM

Gr. 6-12 Winter Showcase

For all parents

FA Hiking Group

9AM

FA MS/US Hot Cocoa Bar For students during lunch

The Owls defeated Coast Union 50-32 in the opening round of the CIF-SS Division 2 8-Person Football Playoffs last week. Shout out to Josh Hansen '24, Nahum Duron-Angeles '26, Spencer Hlavaty '24, Gabe Lea '24, Sam Narva '25, and James Couvillion '24. Owls take on Milken Community School on Saturday, November 11 at 7PM (doors open at 6:15PM). Note that CIF requires ticket purchases for attendance. No cash admission.

Kira Rameson '26 was the lone Owl to qualify for the CIF prelims, finishing in eighth place in the girls race with an improvement of 40 seconds from a year ago. This is Kira’s second straight year qualifying for the prelims. Shout out also to Tanner Murphy '24 for improving his time by two minutes and Andreas McClintock '24 for a solid performance. Go Owls!

Marshall Graham '27 (pictured right) clinched the gold medal at the Santa Clara Junior Silver squash tournament on Sunday! Way to go, Marshall! Owl Pride!

Laguna Blanca offers a Sailing Club Team through SB Youth Sailing Foundation. Students in Grades 8-12 practice with other high school teams and race in competitive regattas. Practices are Tuesday and Thursday with occasional weekend regattas. This program qualifies for Independent PE credit. Email Parent Coordinator Peggy Polos for details.

5:30PM

3PM

Join this webinar to learn practical parenting skills to reduce inattention and hyperactivity. Held Thursday, November 16 at 2:30PM.

Upcoming dates, deadlines, reminders, and important logistical information by division.

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