Chanticleer at AHS, California Dashboard Results, & Zoom Participation Back At Board Meetings 

Dear Albany Community, 

It has been a short but full week. On Wednesday, Albany High choir students were treated to a special visit from Chanticleer, the renowned Grammy Award-winning men’s a cappella ensemble based in San Francisco. The group, one of the finest choirs in the country, performed for our students free of charge. Students were captivated by the performance and eager to learn more, asking thoughtful questions about rehearsals, auditions, and who could hit the highest note. A huge thank you to AHS choir teacher Kate Huizinga for organizing such an inspiring and memorable experience.

2025 California Dashboard Released

Yesterday, the California Department of Education released data from the last school year on the California School Dashboard. The Dashboard provides a comprehensive look at how schools and districts are supporting students by combining state test results with other measures of student success.

We review this information closely, alongside our local assessments, to understand student learning and growth across the district. Analyzing the data will take time, and we will share a detailed review at the Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, along with our Vital Signs update. Vital Signs is Albany Unified’s data review process, held three times a year. It brings together key academic, attendance, and well-being indicators to help us monitor progress toward district goals, identify areas for improvement, and align supports for students. In the meantime, please explore the Dashboard using the link above. Your student’s individual assessment scores are available through the Aeries Parent Portal.

AUSD as a whole scored in the two highest brackets (green and blue) for all of the seven top indicators

English Language Arts — 5.5 pt increase

Math — 7.1 pt increase

English Learner Progress — 2.4% decrease

Chronic Absenteeism — 1.3% decrease 

College/Career Readiness — 5.8% increase

Suspensions — 0.2% (maintained) 

Graduation Rate — 3.7% increase

While not all student groups experienced these gains, we are actively working to close those gaps through early intervention, culturally responsive teaching, and ongoing curriculum updates. Our mission calls us to empower every student to realize their full potential, and that remains at the heart of this work. These results reflect both our students’ perseverance and the commitment of our incredible educators who support them every day.

Hybrid Zoom Board Meetings Returning

Earlier this year, the Board of Education paused the Zoom option for public comment while maintaining full access through in-person attendance and KALB’s live broadcast. In response to community feedback, concerns about the presence of ICE, and our commitment to equitable participation, the Board will reinstate the Hybrid Zoom format, allowing virtual attendees to raise their hand during public comment. We still encourage in-person participation, as recent meetings have been among our most well-attended and engaged. The updated format begins Tuesday, November 18.

ParentSquare Overview & FAQs

If you have questions about ParentSquare, (officially Aeries Communications Powered By ParentSquare), this Overview & FAQ may be helpful. Our goal is to make it easy for every family to stay engaged with their student’s education. 

Calendar Highlights: 

Please see messages from your school for complete information about events. 

• November 13–15: This Murder Was Staged, Albany High School's Theatre Ensemble, AHS Little Theater. Tickets available here.

• November 18: Regular Board Meeting

• November 24–28: NO SCHOOL, Thanksgiving Holiday

Food Resources:

Please see this notice from our Executive Chef.

Sincerely, 

Sara Stone

Superintendent

Albany Unified School District