• Updated September 24, 2023

    National Hispanic American Heritage Month is not only a time for people of Hispanic and Latino descent to celebrate their cultural roots but also an occasion for people from all backgrounds to learn, appreciate, and celebrate the rich tapestry of Hispanic and Latino cultures. Schools throughout the district will explore, learn, and celebrate the vibrant heritage and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities to our world to commemorate the month as well as serve as a source of inspiration for all of us who recognize the power of diversity in shaping our shared humanity. National Hispanic American Heritage Month is from September 15 to October 15. The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30 day period.

    September is also Attendance Awareness Month. Here are some important evidence-based claims related to attendance:

    • Students should miss no more than 9 days of school each year to stay on track to graduation.
    • Absences can be a sign that a student is losing interest in school, struggling with school work, dealing with mistreatment or facing other serious problems.
    • By 6th grade, absenteeism is a sign that a student may drop out of high school.
    • By 9th grade, regular attendance is a better predictor of graduation rates than 8th-grade test scores.
    • Students can be chronically absent even if they only miss a day or two every few weeks.
    • Attendance is an important life skill that will help your child graduate from college and keep a job.

    It's important to get your children's school year off to a great start. Follow these tips:

    • Demonstrate a positive attitude about education.
    • Stay connected with your children's schools through Aeries, Parent Square, and school events.
    • Monitor your children's television, video game, and Internet use.
    • Encourage your children to read.
    • Talk with your children about school safety and if they see something, to say something.
    • Encourage your children to dream big and challenge themselves.
    • Encourage your children to communicate with their teachers.
    • Encourage your children to use the library.
    • Encourage your children to be responsible, work independently, and do their homework.
    • Encourage participation in sports, arts, clubs, and other extra curriculum opportunities.
    • Extend learning for your children through our after school programs

    If you have not yet completed the 2023-24 registration and data confirmation process, please log-in to Aeries here and choose the Parent Portal to complete the process. For assistance via phone, please call 951-509-5014 from 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM daily. For in-person assistance with registering a new student or re-registering a returning student, call your school for an appointment.

    IMPORTANT DATES
    Staff Development Day: 10/9/23 (No School)
    Veteran's Day: 11/10/23 (No School)
    Thanksgiving Break: 11/20-11/24 (No School)
    Winter Break: 12/15-1/2 (No School)

    Stay current and engaged as an education partner by reading my weekly message in our newsletter, The Alvord Round-Up, every Sunday evening at 6 pm via Parent Square. Find current and archived messages here.

    On behalf of the Board of Education and the entire Alvord USD family, we consider ourselves privileged to serve our students, their families, and our community.

    Please direct your concerns and questions to me via email here or call 951-509-5000.

    Stay healthy. Be well.

    Allan Mucerino

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