Dear Orchard Families,
Welcome to October! Fall is officially in the air, and our school routine is fully in swing. September was a fantastic month across all grade levels filled with dynamic learning, meaningful social connections, and seeing our students implement their daily habits.
As the leaves change and the weather crisps up, we are entering an exciting and rewarding time of the school year. October brings several engaging learning opportunities, seasonal activities, and special events designed to celebrate student progress and foster strong school spirit. Please review the key updates, upcoming dates, and essential reminders below to help your family navigate the busy month ahead.
Welcome to October! Fall is officially in the air, and our school routine is fully in swing. September was a fantastic month across all grade levels filled with dynamic learning, meaningful social connections, and seeing our students implement their daily habits.
As the leaves change and the weather crisps up, we are entering an exciting and rewarding time of the school year. October brings several engaging learning opportunities, seasonal activities, and special events designed to celebrate student progress and foster strong school spirit. Please review the key updates, upcoming dates, and essential reminders below to help your family navigate the busy month ahead.
🩺 Orchard School District Health Information Form – 2026–27
Dear Orchard School Families,
Please take a few minutes to complete the Orchard School District Health Information Form for the 2026–27 school year. This information is important to help us keep your child’s health records up to date and ensure we have the most current information on file.
👉 Please click the link below to complete the form:
Please complete one form for each student.
https://app.informedk12.com/link_campaigns/orchard-school-district-health-information-for-2026-27?token=WLktu2rAAUhCFsKKpWMLZzCT
Thank you for taking the time to complete this important information and for helping us keep our students safe, healthy, and supported throughout the school year! 💙
Thank you,
Orchard School
Dear Orchard School Families,
Please take a few minutes to complete the Orchard School District Health Information Form for the 2026–27 school year. This information is important to help us keep your child’s health records up to date and ensure we have the most current information on file.
👉 Please click the link below to complete the form:
Please complete one form for each student.
https://app.informedk12.com/link_campaigns/orchard-school-district-health-information-for-2026-27?token=WLktu2rAAUhCFsKKpWMLZzCT
Thank you for taking the time to complete this important information and for helping us keep our students safe, healthy, and supported throughout the school year! 💙
Thank you,
Orchard School
Dear Orchard Families,
At Orchard, protecting our students and families is at the heart of everything we do. We understand that news of increased ICE presence in the area brings uncertainty and worry to many in our community, in particular our students. We want to share important information about your rights and our protocols, while reassuring you that our dedication to a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for all students—regardless of immigration status—will never change.
At this time, we want to remind families of the following:
You have educational rights.
All children have a right to equal access to free public education, regardless of their or their parents’/guardians’ immigration status.
Stay informed and prepared.
Families who are concerned may wish to create a family preparedness plan.
Keep emergency contacts up to date with the school or organization.
Carry the contact information of a trusted legal service provider.
For more information and resources, you can visit:
Santa Clara County Office of Education
Family Preparedness Plan
Plan de Preparación Familiar
Our staff is here to support you and your family. Please contact the following staff members if you have any questions or need any guidance.
Dr. Jeff Bowman, Ed.D (Superintendent) 408-944-0397 jbowman@orchardsd.org
Mrs. Kristina Zeballos (Principal, Español) 408-944-0388 kzeballos@orchardsd.org
Mrs. Jasmin Sylvester (Assistant Principal, Español) 408-944-0388 jsylvester@orchardsd.org
Mrs. Julia Carrasco (School Counselor, Español) 408-944-0388 jcarrasco@orchardsd.org
Ms. Cassie Nelson (School Counselor) 408-944-0388 cnelson@orchardsd.org
At Orchard, protecting our students and families is at the heart of everything we do. We understand that news of increased ICE presence in the area brings uncertainty and worry to many in our community, in particular our students. We want to share important information about your rights and our protocols, while reassuring you that our dedication to a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for all students—regardless of immigration status—will never change.
At this time, we want to remind families of the following:
You have educational rights.
All children have a right to equal access to free public education, regardless of their or their parents’/guardians’ immigration status.
Stay informed and prepared.
Families who are concerned may wish to create a family preparedness plan.
Keep emergency contacts up to date with the school or organization.
Carry the contact information of a trusted legal service provider.
For more information and resources, you can visit:
Santa Clara County Office of Education
Family Preparedness Plan
Plan de Preparación Familiar
Our staff is here to support you and your family. Please contact the following staff members if you have any questions or need any guidance.
Dr. Jeff Bowman, Ed.D (Superintendent) 408-944-0397 jbowman@orchardsd.org
Mrs. Kristina Zeballos (Principal, Español) 408-944-0388 kzeballos@orchardsd.org
Mrs. Jasmin Sylvester (Assistant Principal, Español) 408-944-0388 jsylvester@orchardsd.org
Mrs. Julia Carrasco (School Counselor, Español) 408-944-0388 jcarrasco@orchardsd.org
Ms. Cassie Nelson (School Counselor) 408-944-0388 cnelson@orchardsd.org
September 14, 2026
Dear Orchard Families, Staff, and Community Members,
With heavy hearts and deep sadness, we write to share difficult news with our school
community. Board Member Renee Lo has passed away following a courageous, hard-fought
battle with cancer.
Renee served on our Orchard Board of Education since 2022, giving generously of her time,
vision, and leadership. She was an extraordinary person who represented Orchard with incredible
dedication, grace, and integrity. Her passion for supporting our students, staff, and families was
evident in everything she did, and her impact on our community will be felt for years to come.
Our deepest sympathies and thoughts are with Renee’s family, friends, and loved ones during
this painful time. We know many in our community knew and worked alongside Renee and, in
turn, share in this loss.
We will share further details about memorial services or ways to express condolences as those
arrangements become available, and if the family wishes to share them.
Our Board President, Virginia Varela Campos, shares the following message:
“It is difficult to put into words what Renee meant to our Board and to our Orchard community.
She brought kindness, wisdom, strength, and heart to everything she did. We are deeply
saddened by her loss, but we are also grateful for the years we had with her, and for the lasting
impact she leaves behind. Renee will always be a part of the Orchard family.”
Thank you for holding Renee’s family in your thoughts as we navigate this difficult loss together
as an Orchard community.
With deepest sympathy,
Jeff Bowman, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Orchard School District
Dear Orchard Families, Staff, and Community Members,
With heavy hearts and deep sadness, we write to share difficult news with our school
community. Board Member Renee Lo has passed away following a courageous, hard-fought
battle with cancer.
Renee served on our Orchard Board of Education since 2022, giving generously of her time,
vision, and leadership. She was an extraordinary person who represented Orchard with incredible
dedication, grace, and integrity. Her passion for supporting our students, staff, and families was
evident in everything she did, and her impact on our community will be felt for years to come.
Our deepest sympathies and thoughts are with Renee’s family, friends, and loved ones during
this painful time. We know many in our community knew and worked alongside Renee and, in
turn, share in this loss.
We will share further details about memorial services or ways to express condolences as those
arrangements become available, and if the family wishes to share them.
Our Board President, Virginia Varela Campos, shares the following message:
“It is difficult to put into words what Renee meant to our Board and to our Orchard community.
She brought kindness, wisdom, strength, and heart to everything she did. We are deeply
saddened by her loss, but we are also grateful for the years we had with her, and for the lasting
impact she leaves behind. Renee will always be a part of the Orchard family.”
Thank you for holding Renee’s family in your thoughts as we navigate this difficult loss together
as an Orchard community.
With deepest sympathy,
Jeff Bowman, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Orchard School District
Dear Orchard Families,
Welcome to September! As the summer season winds down, our school community is energized and ready for a productive month ahead. Every day spent at school helps build the steady habits and personal connections that allow students to thrive both socially and academically. When children attend regularly, they don't just keep up with their lessons—they deepen their sense of belonging, strengthen their friendships, and actively participate in our supportive school community. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership to keep our students engaged and thriving!
Welcome to September! As the summer season winds down, our school community is energized and ready for a productive month ahead. Every day spent at school helps build the steady habits and personal connections that allow students to thrive both socially and academically. When children attend regularly, they don't just keep up with their lessons—they deepen their sense of belonging, strengthen their friendships, and actively participate in our supportive school community. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership to keep our students engaged and thriving!
Dear Parents,
You’re invited to join Mrs. Zeballos, our Principal, for Coffee with the Principal!
📅 September 17th
⏰ 8:15–8:45 AM
📍 Library
Come enjoy a cup of coffee, connect with our school community, and learn more about what’s happening at our school. We hope to see you there! 💙🐾
BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT!
2026-27 Orchard Student Support Services
Dear Orchard Families,
We are here to support you! If you are facing financial hardships, housing transitions, foster care, or other challenges that affect your child's schooling, please use this form to request school assistance.
Please complete the sections below for the services you are requesting.
https://forms.gle/YWg6MBgnMP4n1sGYA
Dear Orchard Families,
We are here to support you! If you are facing financial hardships, housing transitions, foster care, or other challenges that affect your child's schooling, please use this form to request school assistance.
Please complete the sections below for the services you are requesting.
https://forms.gle/YWg6MBgnMP4n1sGYA
Dear Orchard Families,
Dear Families,
Welcome to the new school year! To help our students acclimate smoothly and build confidence in their daily routines, parents and guardians are welcome to walk their students directly to their classroom lines in the morning for the first 2 days (8/5 & 8/6) of school. We kindly ask that once your student has found their line, you promptly exit through the gates.
Starting on the third day of school, our campus will return to its standard closed-campus policy:
Morning Drop-Off: Parents will drop students off at the designated gates rather than walking them to line.
Campus Visitors: Anyone needing to enter campus after drop-off or during school hours must check in and sign at the front office first.
Thank you for your partnership as we prioritize both a smooth transition and the ongoing safety and security of our students and staff. We look forward to a great year!
Warmly,
Mrs. Zeballos
Orchard School Principal
Welcome to the new school year! To help our students acclimate smoothly and build confidence in their daily routines, parents and guardians are welcome to walk their students directly to their classroom lines in the morning for the first 2 days (8/5 & 8/6) of school. We kindly ask that once your student has found their line, you promptly exit through the gates.
Starting on the third day of school, our campus will return to its standard closed-campus policy:
Morning Drop-Off: Parents will drop students off at the designated gates rather than walking them to line.
Campus Visitors: Anyone needing to enter campus after drop-off or during school hours must check in and sign at the front office first.
Thank you for your partnership as we prioritize both a smooth transition and the ongoing safety and security of our students and staff. We look forward to a great year!
Warmly,
Mrs. Zeballos
Orchard School Principal
Orchard Families,
Please save the date for either August 3rd anytime between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm OR August 4th anytime between 4:00 pm and 6:30 pm for our Schedule Pick Up events. Plan to spend around 30 minutes on campus completing required forms and getting schedule and classroom assignments for the year.
This event is for all grades TK-8th.
Have a great summer!
Please save the date for either August 3rd anytime between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm OR August 4th anytime between 4:00 pm and 6:30 pm for our Schedule Pick Up events. Plan to spend around 30 minutes on campus completing required forms and getting schedule and classroom assignments for the year.
This event is for all grades TK-8th.
Have a great summer!
Hi Everyone,
Just a reminder that our monthly Second Harvest Distribution is happening tomorrow, July 15th from 2-4PM in the district office parking lot.
Please stop by for free food! Don't forget your carts and wagons!
See you all tomorrow!
Just a reminder that our monthly Second Harvest Distribution is happening tomorrow, July 15th from 2-4PM in the district office parking lot.
Please stop by for free food! Don't forget your carts and wagons!
See you all tomorrow!
I hope you are enjoying your summer and staying cool!
Please see the June 2026 Community School Newsletter. Thank you for a wonderful year.
Please see the June 2026 Community School Newsletter. Thank you for a wonderful year.
Hi Bruin Families,
We are always looking for ways to make our extracurricular activities even more exciting and rewarding for your students. To help us do that, we’ve put together a super quick survey. Your feedback will directly shape the activities we offer next term.
Please submit your responses by June 8th. Thank you so much for your time and for helping us create the best possible experience for our students!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSevFNhpPY2AC8Hp0UxzsLXeWcH7uEpVQTqMRLhdPti6JRPpvg/viewform?usp=dialog
We are always looking for ways to make our extracurricular activities even more exciting and rewarding for your students. To help us do that, we’ve put together a super quick survey. Your feedback will directly shape the activities we offer next term.
Please submit your responses by June 8th. Thank you so much for your time and for helping us create the best possible experience for our students!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSevFNhpPY2AC8Hp0UxzsLXeWcH7uEpVQTqMRLhdPti6JRPpvg/viewform?usp=dialog
End-of-Year Message from the Principal
The last day of school is Thursday, June 4, and it will be a minimum day.
Please note that Wednesday, June 3, will also be a minimum day. We wish all of our students and families a safe and enjoyable summer break!
Safety and Community Update
Dear Orchard Families,
At Orchard School, we are committed to maintaining a safe, transparent, and supportive environment for all of our students. With that commitment in mind, I want to share a brief and important update regarding an isolated incident that occurred on campus today.
One of our primary students experienced a severe emotional and behavioral crisis today, becoming highly dysregulated. Out of an abundance of caution, our staff immediately implemented safety protocols to ensure the well-being of the student, as well as the nearby classes.
The situation moved briefly to an outdoor area near the bike racks. Our Superintendent and Assistant Principal, who are both fully trained in specialized crisis de-escalation, immediately intervened. Working together, they were able to safely redirect the student and bring the situation to a peaceful resolution.
What You Need to Know:
All Students Are Safe: At no point was there an external threat to the school, nor was the wider student body in any danger.
Privacy & Compassion: To respect the privacy of the child and family involved, we cannot share further specific details. We appreciate your partnership in refraining from speculation.
Business as Usual: School routines resumed promptly following the incident.
We are incredibly proud of our staff's swift response and the expertise of our leadership team in handling this matter with both safety and empathy at the forefront. Thank you for your continued trust and support of our school community.
Sincerely,
Orchard School
Dear Orchard Families,
At Orchard School, we are committed to maintaining a safe, transparent, and supportive environment for all of our students. With that commitment in mind, I want to share a brief and important update regarding an isolated incident that occurred on campus today.
One of our primary students experienced a severe emotional and behavioral crisis today, becoming highly dysregulated. Out of an abundance of caution, our staff immediately implemented safety protocols to ensure the well-being of the student, as well as the nearby classes.
The situation moved briefly to an outdoor area near the bike racks. Our Superintendent and Assistant Principal, who are both fully trained in specialized crisis de-escalation, immediately intervened. Working together, they were able to safely redirect the student and bring the situation to a peaceful resolution.
What You Need to Know:
All Students Are Safe: At no point was there an external threat to the school, nor was the wider student body in any danger.
Privacy & Compassion: To respect the privacy of the child and family involved, we cannot share further specific details. We appreciate your partnership in refraining from speculation.
Business as Usual: School routines resumed promptly following the incident.
We are incredibly proud of our staff's swift response and the expertise of our leadership team in handling this matter with both safety and empathy at the forefront. Thank you for your continued trust and support of our school community.
Sincerely,
Orchard School
Please see the attached flyer for important information regarding our class promotion ceremony, including the date, time, location, and event expectations. We look forward to celebrating our students’ achievements with family and friends!
RAFT Summer Camp still has openings available! This is a great opportunity for students to stay engaged, learn new skills, and enjoy fun hands-on activities during the summer. Spaces are limited, so please register soon if you are interested. See the flyer for more information and registration details.
May Newsletter
May 8, 2026
Dear Orchard Families,
Welcome to a very busy and exciting May! This month is a true celebration of our students’ diverse talents and growth, starting with our vibrant Starting Arts performances and our campus-wide Arts Extravaganza. Beyond the arts, we are focused on preparing our students for the future through Middle School Career Day and prioritizing their well-being with essential Water Safety presentations. We also look forward to celebrating our students' hard work at the Tiki Dance and, most importantly, honoring our transitioning classes during our upcoming Promotion Ceremonies. Thank you for your continued partnership as we navigate this action-packed "home stretch" and celebrate these major milestones together!
Warmly,
Mrs. Zeballos
Orchard School Principal
Updates/Reminders:
CAASPP Testing:
It is that time of year! Our students have been working hard all year, and it is finally time for them to showcase what they’ve learned. The California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) testing window is officially here.
These assessments help us understand how our students are growing and where we can provide more support. Our goal is to make this experience as positive and stress-free as possible!
📅 SAVE THE DATES
Our school’s specific testing window will take place from May 11th to May 15th.
Grades 3–8 & 11: Smarter Balanced Summative Assessments for ELA and Math.
Grades 5th & 8th: California Science Test (CAST).
WAYS TO HELP YOUR STUDENT:
You don’t need to be a math or English expert to help your child do well! The best support comes from a prepared home environment.
Rest & Recharge: Ensure your child gets a full night’s sleep. A rested brain is a focused brain!
Brain Power Breakfast: A healthy breakfast with protein (eggs, yogurt, or nuts) helps maintain energy levels throughout the morning.
The "Fully Charged" Rule: If your student uses a school-issued device, please ensure it is plugged in and 100% charged every night.
Punctuality: Please ensure students arrive at school on time. Testing sessions often begin immediately after the bell, and late arrivals may have to wait for make-up sessions.
May 8, 2026
Dear Orchard Families,
Welcome to a very busy and exciting May! This month is a true celebration of our students’ diverse talents and growth, starting with our vibrant Starting Arts performances and our campus-wide Arts Extravaganza. Beyond the arts, we are focused on preparing our students for the future through Middle School Career Day and prioritizing their well-being with essential Water Safety presentations. We also look forward to celebrating our students' hard work at the Tiki Dance and, most importantly, honoring our transitioning classes during our upcoming Promotion Ceremonies. Thank you for your continued partnership as we navigate this action-packed "home stretch" and celebrate these major milestones together!
Warmly,
Mrs. Zeballos
Orchard School Principal
Updates/Reminders:
CAASPP Testing:
It is that time of year! Our students have been working hard all year, and it is finally time for them to showcase what they’ve learned. The California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) testing window is officially here.
These assessments help us understand how our students are growing and where we can provide more support. Our goal is to make this experience as positive and stress-free as possible!
📅 SAVE THE DATES
Our school’s specific testing window will take place from May 11th to May 15th.
Grades 3–8 & 11: Smarter Balanced Summative Assessments for ELA and Math.
Grades 5th & 8th: California Science Test (CAST).
WAYS TO HELP YOUR STUDENT:
You don’t need to be a math or English expert to help your child do well! The best support comes from a prepared home environment.
Rest & Recharge: Ensure your child gets a full night’s sleep. A rested brain is a focused brain!
Brain Power Breakfast: A healthy breakfast with protein (eggs, yogurt, or nuts) helps maintain energy levels throughout the morning.
The "Fully Charged" Rule: If your student uses a school-issued device, please ensure it is plugged in and 100% charged every night.
Punctuality: Please ensure students arrive at school on time. Testing sessions often begin immediately after the bell, and late arrivals may have to wait for make-up sessions.
