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“No school Monday!” says the student to her friend, walking past Gym 1 towards James St. on Friday afternoon. Both students, along with ~8000 of their peers from our district’s high schools, are discussing how they will spend their day away from campus. Sleeping in? Meeting up with friends for an adventure? Catching up on homework? Looking after younger siblings? Grabbing an extra shift at work?

“No school Monday?” pings the text from her parent carpool group chat. She sighs, thinking that their family’s one day off from carpooling duties always seems to fall on a day off from school. She wonders if it’d be possible to skip work and do something fun with her child – just the two of them. How many more opportunities like this will present themselves? High school is going by so quickly. Then the light turns green and she takes her foot off the brake.

Teachers and staff have a different plan for Monday. All school employees will be participating in professional development designed to support ongoing excellence in the Sequoia Unified High School District’s Instructional Goals. They are:

• Active, Engaged, and Inclusive Classes
• Asset-Based Classrooms and Communities
• Student-Centered Feedback and Assessment
• Responsive Instructional Practices
• Integrated Socio-Emotional Learning and Wellness for Students and Educators

Staff select three sessions to attend over the course of the day based on their needs and circumstances. There are 69 total sessions from which to choose. It’s essentially a mini-conference. This year, our school will roll out the purple carpet and host ~750 of our colleagues from the other district schools. The event is planned and executed by our district’s professional development team, and many of the sessions are facilitated by district teachers. It’s a marvel: continental breakfast, boxed lunches, and fun activities interspersed between the impactful professional learning.

For teachers and staff, it’s not the same three-day weekend our students are enjoying, but it does provide a solid mid-semester reload for the final stretch of the school year. I’ll likely attend sessions on teaching students with ADHD (“When ‘Not Trying’ Isn’t the Problem”), on responsive instruction strategies with AI (“Bridging the Gap Between Rigor and Support”), and an afternoon session on effective assessment and feedback strategies. Though I haven’t been in the classroom for 16 years, I am always grateful for opportunities to stay up-to-date on best practices.

I’m also grateful to work in a district that provides such robust support and learning for our teachers and staff. There is a strong culture of reflection and continuous improvement for our educators. Our Professional Development department is stellar. I wish our students could see the joy and enthusiasm with which so many of their teachers embrace opportunities to master new skills and strategies. Our aspiration is to model a self-actualized version of professionalism for our students: showing up every day with open, dedicated hearts and minds, and growing every day in our knowledge and skills.

I hope some of our families have the opportunity to model the values that help you thrive as caregivers on Monday. Even if you can’t take the day off with your students, I hope the extra time provides an extra laugh and hug. Maybe even some chores around the house will magically be completed when you get home!

Have a great week!

Best,

Sean

We are looking for volunteers to serve as judges for the Junior Class Achievement Awards panel this year (see details under "Class Notes" below). The only requirement is that you cannot judge if you have a junior this year.

The program will launch on March 23 and run through April 19. Judging will occur the week of April 20 and require approximately 3-4 hours of your time.

If you are able to contribute some time to help judge the submissions, please contact Andrea Mardesich.

Give your gently used formalwear a new life…for Sequoia Prom 2026! 💃🏻🕺

The Sequoia Family Center, SHSEF and PTSA are organizing our annual Sequoia PROM GALLERY for March 30th & 31st. Each year, Sequoia creates a "store" on our campus so students can "shop" for a prom outfit, completely free. Many hard-working Sequoia teens and their families are excited about Sequoia's upcoming prom, but worried about the huge cost of buying or renting formalwear. Sequoia is committed to making prom an inclusive, fun milestone event for ALL of our students. 

We need modern formal dresses (mostly long styles), modern suits (black or dark preferred), tuxedos, ties, dress shoes (women's and men's), fancy costume jewelry, small clutches, etc. CLEAN and stain-free in ALL sizes! 

You can donate by:

Leaving items at the organizer’s home at 43 Finger Ave, Redwood City from 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. after work hours. Send Ann a text at (617) 835-9586, so she knows the items are arriving. *Donations accepted until Friday, 3/27.*

Dropping donations off at the Sequoia Family Center on campus Rm 129 8:00 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. Let Elvira know you’re coming at (650) 367-9780 ext. 63110

We also need volunteers to staff the Prom Gallery!

You can volunteer by signing up at the link:

Prom Gallery Volunteer SignUp

Thank you for your help making everyone feel and look great at Sequoia’s Prom!

Bridging the Gap: College & Career Preparedness–SPRING is here!

March is a big kickoff for our 11th graders as they plan for their futures after high school. 165 are signed up to sit for the School Day SAT on March 25th. And starting this week, junior history classes will receive a workshop on “Developing a College List” from the College and Career Center. Thank you to our donors for supporting both these programs for College & Career Preparedness and others, including:

• Additional Credentialed College Counselor
• On-Campus school day SAT for Juniors (165 students)
• Multi-day College Trip for AVID Students (48 students & 5 chaperones)

SHSEF has received a two-year grant from Sobrato Philanthropies to pilot a Career Readiness Program at Sequoia to ensure we are supporting ALL students—including those who will go directly into the workforce after high school. With this funding, Sequoia has hired a Career Readiness Specialist who will develop and facilitate pathways for students into careers that advance stability and economic mobility. This specialist will work in partnership with community programs and businesses to equip students with the skills, experience, and confidence to succeed in the rapidly changing world. 

The purpose of our education foundation is to raise funds from parents, community members, and grantors to help close the gap in state and local funding. Our fundraising goal for the 2025-26 school year is $650,000, and our recommended ask per student is $1,500, or any gift meaningful to your family. Learn more and DONATE TODAY!

Follow us on Instagram

Looking for a way to get your SHSEF information and news and engage with our community? Follow us on Instagram: @SequoiaEdFoundation 

Both home and away games have been added to the Sequoia High School Calendar –and don't forget to follow @seqboosters on social media.

Junior Achievement Award

Calling all Juniors! Applications will open for the Junior Achievement Award on March 23rd. This award recognizes students for academic success, community service, and/or resilience. This is a great opportunity to start your college essays, to be recognized for your hard work, and to earn some extra money to continue your education. The deadline for submitting is Monday April 19th, 2025 at 10:00 p.m. For more information about the award please go to https://www.sequoiaptsa.org/junior-scholarships. This year we have multiple awards of at least $125 to offer.

Grad Night ’26 Tickets—Get them now!

Grad Night is right around the corner! Join us June 5–6 aboard the luxurious San Francisco Spirit for an unforgettable night. From the comfort of the yacht, take in stunning views of the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz while enjoying activities across three decks—including dancing, casino tables, karaoke, and a photo booth. It’s a night you won’t want to miss! Tickets are available at a discounted price of $100 when purchased in March.

Prices increase to $125 in April and May, and $135 for last-minute purchases in June, so buy early! Each ticket includes admission, all activities, food, beverages, and transportation. Students will check in at Sequoia on June 5 at 9:00 p.m. and return the following morning around 4:00 a.m. Tickets can be purchased online HERE.

Boletos para la Fiesta de Graduación de 2026: ¡Cómpralos ya!

¡La fiesta de graduación está a la vuelta de la esquina! Acompáñanos del 5 al 6 de junio a bordo del lujoso San Francisco Spirit para una noche inolvidable. Desde la comodidad del yate, disfruta de impresionantes vistas de San Francisco, el Puente Golden Gate y Alcatraz, mientras participas en actividades en tres cubiertas—que incluyen baile, mesas de casino, karaoke y una cabina fotográfica. ¡Es una noche que no te querrás perder! Los boletos están disponibles a un precio reducido de $100 si los compras en febrero y marzo.

El precio sube a $125 en abril y mayo, y a $135 para las compras de última hora en junio, ¡así que compra con anticipación! Cada boleto incluye la entrada, todas las actividades, comida, bebidas y transporte. Los estudiantes se registrarán en Sequoia el 5 de junio a las 9:00 p.m. y regresarán a la mañana siguiente alrededor de las 4:00 a.m. Puedes comprar boletos en línea AQUI. 

• March 16 - No Classes

Come see Sequoia Drama's spring play production of JANE AUSTEN IN 89 MINUTES by Syrie James!

Shows are March 20-22, Friday and Saturday at 7:00 p.m. & Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 p.m. 

Tickets are available at https://our.show/janeausten89minutes 

Come celebrate the creativity of Sequoia High School’s visual art students! Their incredible artwork is on display at the Redwood City Main Library now through March 29th.



Stop by and be inspired!

We’re hosting several spring events and would love your help! Sequoia Career Technical Education (CTE) students will visit our local community colleges to explore career-readiness opportunities, including mock interviews. Whether you can volunteer for just 1–2 hours or join us for all three mock interview events, your time and expertise will help students build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and better understand real-world career pathways. If you’re able to share this opportunity with friends or colleagues, we’d appreciate that too. Thank you for being part of this important work!

When: Friday, April 17, 2026, 10:00-11:00 a.m., 11:00-12:00 p.m., and 12:00-1:00 p.m.

Where: Cañada College, 4200 Farm Hill Blvd, Redwood City, CA 94061

How: Sign Up Here (Canada College)

When: Wednesday, April 22, 2026, 10:45-11:55 a.m. and 11:55-1:10 p.m.

Where: Foothill College, 12345 El Monte Rd, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022

How: Sign Up Here (Foothill College)

When: Wednesday, April 29, 2026, 10:15-11:15 a.m. and 11:15-12:15 p.m.

Where: Skyline College, 3300 College Dr, San Bruno, CA 94066

How: Sign Up Here (Skyline College)

For any additional questions, contact Faith Velschow at fvelschow@seq.org.

The SUHSD Middle College program at Cañada College still accepting applications for Fall 2026

Middle College is a collaboration between the SUHSD and Cañada College, and students earn both high school and college credits, enabling them to complete their high school requirements and earn college credit simultaneously. All classes are held at Cañada College, and there is no cost. 

Learn more here: Middle College Video

Interested sophomores should speak to their counselor. Limited space for rising seniors. 



All application components must be submitted by Friday, 3/20/2026 at 4:00 p.m.

Email us at canadamiddlecollege@smccd.edu for questions or visit the website for more information, or call 650-306-3120.

The Sequoia High School Alumni Association is looking to honor a Purple Patriot and is soliciting nominations for its annual Purple Patriot Award, purple and white being Redwood City's Sequoia High School's official colors. Recipients will receive a framed certificate as well as have their name inscribed on a perpetual trophy on permanent display at the high school. 

The Purple Patriot Award is an annual award instituted to honor both individuals and organizations who have demonstrated outstanding service or provided a significant benefit directly to Sequoia High School. Nominees may be from Sequoia High School or the community at large. 

Please indicate the nominee's individual name or organization name, stating why the nominee should receive this award. Indicate specifically what role the nominee played in directly providing the service or benefit to Sequoia High School and explain in detail what the service or benefit was. 

Nominations must be submitted in writing to the Sequoia High School Alumni Association, P. O. Box 2534, Redwood City, CA 94064, emailed to shsaa@sequoiaalumni.org, or placed in the Sequoia High School Alumni Association mailbox near the Principal's office no later than

Thursday, March 19, 2026.

Ken Rolandelli

President, Sequoia High School Alumni Association

Phone: (650) 368-0805

Email: president@sequoiaalumni.org

To sign up for the free Parent Venture newsletter, click here. 

Questions? Contact Charlene Margot, MEd, Co-Founder and CEO, The Parent Venture, at cmargot@parentventure.org.

¿Preguntas? Comuníquese con Charlene Margot, MEd, co-fundadora y Directora Ejecutiva de The Parent Venture, al correo electrónico cmargot@parentventure.org.

March 17: 3 Practical Ways to Use Technology Safely

This practical workshop helps families and their children use technology and social media in safe and healthy ways. Jamie Nuñez is the Senior Manager of Outreach and Training at Common Sense Media.

Register

17 de marzo: 3 Maneras prácticas para usar la tecnología con seguridad

Este taller práctico ayuda a las familias y sus hijos a usar la tecnología y las redes sociales de manera segura y saludable. Jamie Nuñez es el gerente sénior de divulgación y capacitación en Common Sense Media.

Registro

In this timely Neurodiversity Education Series event, Dr. Jackie Rodriguez, CEO of the National Center for Learning Disabilities, will outline recent legal changes and what they mean for students and schools. For more information, visit www.neurodiversityeducationseries.org.

Register

En este evento de la Serie de Educación sobre Neurodiversidad, la Dra. Jackie Rodriguez, CEO del National Center for Learning Disabilities, describirá los cambios legales recientes y lo que significan para los estudiantes y las escuelas. Para más información, visite www.neurodiversityeducationseries.org

Registro

THE SEQUOIA MEDIA CENTER

What will you learn in the Media Center?

The Spring 2026 Sequoia Media Center Newsletter is here!

Summit Education hosts virtual summer programs for high-achieving students interested in STEM. In 2026, Summit will run two programs: 

• Summit STEM Fellowship (SSF): SSF empowers the next generation of STEM leaders by helping students explore a wide range of STEM fields and career pathways while building leadership and life skills. The fellowship is a flexible 10–15 hour per week commitment, allowing students to participate alongside other summer activities. 

• Summit Research Scholars (SRS): SRS equips students with the tools to conduct original research, covering essential research methods and technical skills. At the end of the program, students complete a Research Capstone and practice applying their skills to solve real-world problems. 

Applications for Summer 2026 programs have recently opened. Admissions are rolling, and students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. To learn more and apply, please visit www.summiteducation.org. and check out our video here!

Join us for the fourth annual San Carlos Parks and Recreation Foundation No Foolin' Foot Race on Saturday, April 18, 2026! Take on the challenging 5K, 10K, or 15K trail race and younger kids can run the 1-mile kids race through beautiful Big Canyon, Eaton, and Pulgas Ridge (15K only) Parks to benefit San Carlos trail maintenance and improvements. Sign up to run or to volunteer at the race. Register Today!

Students from the Sequoia Union High School District are invited to apply to a unique Spanish immersion and cultural experience in Costa Rica. Participants live with local families, practice Spanish daily, and engage in meaningful cultural and community activities.

Questions? Contact Ilba Prego, Director 

ilba@youthcr.org

www.highschoolspanish.org  

High school scholars will have the exciting opportunity to spend 8 weeks during the summer engaged in hands-on research within our cutting-edge laboratories. Throughout this period, scholars will collaborate on existing research projects under the direct supervision of graduate scholars, postdocs, and experienced lab managers. The commitment involves 15-30 hours of work per week, providing a rich and immersive research experience. Furthermore, we’re proud to offer honorarium scholarships to support and celebrate a diverse range of talents and perspectives among our interns for those who qualify.

To apply, please visit our website using our homepage link provided above, or click here.

The application deadline is TODAY, March 15, 2026. Letters of recommendation are due one week later.

We strongly encourage applicants to review the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section for additional information.

The Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability comprises seven departments, each offering unique opportunities for research exploration. Explore the internship options page on our website to gain insights into the diverse fields of research available within each department.

This spring, the 17th District PTA is calling all middle and high school artists, writers, and change makers to join the Earth Day Sustainability Challenge. This year's theme “One Choice” invites students to envision and promote solutions to pressing environmental problems in their communities. Together, let’s imagine a future where our shared choices create lasting positive change for the planet!

Participants will be able to choose from four environmental issues to create a Video, Podcast, Essay, Poem, Infographic, or Visual Art (2 Dimensional). 

Submissions are due March 31st and winners will be announced in late April. Please find information on the challenge here.

Questions can be directed to esarver@17thdistrictpta.org.