Friday during flex period, I had the privilege of sharing the following with Sequoia students via the loudspeaker. They’ve impressed us in these first few days with their positive energy and curiosity. Here’s what I said:

Hello Sequoia students! Thanks for the great start to the year. Heading into our first weekend, here are my top five ways to make your year at Sequoia as amazing as possible:

1. Find a favorite tree: this is a beautiful campus and it’s alive in ways that aren’t always obvious. Pay attention to our wise trees and you’ll start to notice other ways in which the beauty of our school holds power.  
2. When you appreciate something that your teacher does or says, big or small, let them know. There are lots of great things happening every day and when you appreciate something, why keep it to yourself? We humans actually have a physical reaction to gratitude. Saying “thanks” actually changes your body in positive ways. It really is that simple.
3. Try not to step on anyone’s shoes. If you do, just say you’re sorry. Sequoia has a great shoe culture. (It’s also a metaphor).
4. Ask at least one question every day. It’s a geat reminder that you don’t know everything. Nobody does, that’s what makes life fun.
5. Wear purple every Friday. Every Friday. It’s a simple tradition that affirms our community.  

Life is challenging. Not only is the world unpredictable but the older you get, the more challenges come your way. Some days it will seems like nothing is going your way – and maybe even that nothing will change. But remember how many thousands and thousands of things in an infinite universe needed to happen just the way they did for any of us to even be here together today at Sequoia. What a miracle. Every day is a miracle. These five tips help me remember this and I believe they can do the same for you.  

So in review: Have a favorite tree, say thank you, try not to step on shoes, but if you do, just say sorry, ask at least one genuine question every day, and wear purple on friday.

Thanks for listening and have an awesome day!

On Friday, September 1 (the morning after Back to School Night), the PTSA will treat our staff and teachers to espresso drinks and breakfast.

Show your appreciation and support for our hard-working Sequoia team by donating breakfast items or volunteering on campus. Multiple shifts are available. Sign up to contribute food or volunteer your time. It’s a great way to spend time on campus and thank staff in person! Reach out to Linda Solon with questions. Thank you!

All Sequoia families are cordially invited to the 2023 Principal's Welcome in Carrington Hall on Tuesday September 5, 2023 at 7 p.m. Hear from Principal Priest on his vision for the upcoming school year, and bring your questions! It's a night you don't want to miss!

Todas las familias de Sequoia están cordialmente invitadas al mensaje de bienvenida del director en Carrington Hall el martes 5 de septiembre del 2023 a las 7:00 p.m. Escuche la visión del director Priest para este año escolar y ¡haga sus preguntas! ¡no querrá perderse esta noche!

To show how much we appreciate all they do, the PTSA kicked off the school year by hosting a picnic lunch for teachers and staff on Monday, August 14. A huge thank you to all of the families who contributed food and drinks, and especially to the parents who took time out during the last few days of summer break to help set up, serve food, and clean up.

We couldn’t have done it without you!

Your $20 annual membership shows your commitment to a group whose purpose is to help make Sequoia a place where, Parents, Teachers, and Students are welcome and can feel the UNALIYI spirit!

Whether you are able to be involved just a little or a lot, we can't wait to meet you! JOIN TODAY

Did you know SHSEF supports staff, projects and programs to ensure that every student has the opportunity to reach their highest potential? We raise funds for college services, academic enrichment programs, staff professional development, and student and family support. Donate today and help us reach our goal of $650K!

URINETOWN is a hilarious and resonating tale of greed, corruption, love, and revolution. There will be an information meeting and audition workshop Friday, August 18 after school in Carrington Hall. Auditions are August 21-23 after school.

Visit www.sequoiadrama.com to sign-up to audition or register for the tech crew.

What: All Sequoia freshmen will visit a Bay Area College Campus.

When: Thursday October 12, 2023

Where: Past schools have included UC Berkeley, San Jose State, University of San Francisco, Sonoma State, San Francisco State, University of the Pacific, or Santa Clara University

Complete the permission slip today!

Looking for a parent to come in Wed. mornings for two hours to help with clerical work on a specific project. Person needs to be an independent worker. Past volunteers worked the same job for an average of three years while their students were attending SHS. Please contact Teresa Ignaitis if interested. Thanks!

Check out the Media Center website to learn more about this great resource for Sequoia students.

This week in sports



Thursday 8/24 - Boys water polo will scrimmage Half Moon Bay at home starting at 4:00 p.m.

Friday 8/25 - Varsity football travels to Kona, Hawaii for their first game vs the Kealakehe Waveriders.

Purchase your football season pass or game day tickets at GoFan.co and don’t forget to follow individual Sequoia sports on Instagram!

Join the Boosters or renew your membership early to support all of our 2023-24 athletic programs.

Membership starts at just $10 and Boosters platinum, gold and silver members receive free entry to all regular season home sporting events, plus exclusive donor gifts including:

• Sequoia branded tote bag*
• Rechargeable SEQ branded handwarmers*
• Insulated Sequoia tumbler with lid*
• Boosters magnets

*Learn more about Boosters Benefits and Donor Levels.