We Can’t Do It Alone! Supporting Organizations, & Updates to Volunteer & Allergy Plans

Dear Albany Community, 

Creating a joyful environment for teaching and learning takes all of us. It begins with the talent, dedication, and creativity of our teachers and staff, who bring learning to life in ways that inspire and challenge our students. It is also sustained by the support of our families and community, whose partnership ensures that our schools have the resources, encouragement, and care needed for students to thrive.

I am deeply grateful for our volunteers and our fundraising organizations. Their time, generosity, and commitment provide opportunities and experiences that go far beyond what our district budget can support. They help make Albany a truly special place for students to learn and grow.

When we bring these pieces together, with skilled educators, committed staff, engaged families, and generous community partners, we create joyful and safe conditions where students flourish. Please support SchoolCARE, Albany Education Foundation (AEF), Albany Athletic Boosters, Albany Music Fund, Albany Theater Fund, and all of the PTA/PTSA organizations!

Update On Volunteer & Allergy Plans  

There have been many recent questions about our Allergy and Volunteer Plans as we work to align practices across all schools with current board-adopted policies (BP 5141.27). Our intent was to ensure compliance with policy and to create a safe environment for all students. However, the timing was difficult, the communication was unclear, and there were unintended consequences.

In response, we are taking a step back. Over the next few months, we will build out more thorough plans that prioritize student safety, while balancing the valuable connection and engagement between Albany schools and our community. This process will include a review of current policies at the September 16 Board Policy Review Committee meeting, opportunities for community and staff engagement, and clear timelines for when any changes will take effect. Until we complete those plans, we will proceed with only two changes.

Volunteer Plan:

Volunteer I Status:  Volunteer I status will continue this year. This level is for volunteers who support classrooms and school activities with direct student contact, always under the supervision of certificated staff. Site leaders will make the final determination about which activities qualify for Volunteer I status.

The Volunteer I application is available here. The application asks for basic personal information (name, phone number, student/school affiliation), includes consent for a Megan’s Law clearance at no cost to you, and has four short TB screening questions. Processing typically takes about one week.

Allergy Plan:

All AUSD sites and staff spaces will be designated as nut-free zones. This includes all sites, PTA & PTSA events, clubs, sports and staff-only areas.

The start of the school year is always exciting and busy. I know the early rollout of these plans created confusion, and I regret the impact this has caused. I appreciate your feedback and will keep you updated as we refine and move these plans forward in the coming months.

Calendar Highlights: 

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

• August 26: Board Retreat, 6pm, Albany City Hall

• Wednesday, August 27:  Back-To-School Nights at Cornell, Marin, and Ocean View Elementary Schools, 6–7pm. Parents/Guardians only. 

• Monday, September 1:  Labor Day, all schools and offices closed.

• Wednesday, September 3: Albany High School Back-To-School Night, 7pm.

• Thursday, September 4:  Albany Middle School Back-To-School Night, 6:30pm.  

• September 23: Regular Board Meeting, 6pm, Albany City Hall

Important Links

• Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)

• MTSS for Educators and Students

• Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain

Sincerely, 

Sara Stone

Superintendent

Albany Unified School District