Dear Garvey Parents/Guardians,
I hope you and your family are having a wonderful summer! Thank you for your continued partnership in support of your child's education and wellness. In about one week, we welcome our students and families back to campus, and I'm excited to share some important updates for the 2026-2027 school year.
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL: Thursday, August 20, 2026
Elementary Schools: 8:20 a.m. – 2:35 p.m. | Intermediate Schools: 8:05 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
WOODCRAFT RANGERS AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
The District will again offer free after school programs through Woodcraft Rangers, available every school day until 6:00 p.m., with homework support and club activities. Due to high registration, some students may be placed on a processing list until more staff are secured. If you registered and haven't heard back by Tuesday, August 18, contact your school's coordinator (listed in the attached letter). Not yet registered? You still can, through the school office or at garvey.k12.ca.us/after-school-program.
AT-HOME CHROMEBOOKS
Loaner Chromebooks are available for students without a computer at home. Pick up an "At-Home Chromebook Request Form" from the school office and return it to your child's teacher by August 28, 2026.
SECURITY CAMERAS ON CAMPUS
Cameras are now installed districtwide and will be fully operational within the first month of school. They're placed only in public-facing areas, record video only (no audio), and footage access is limited to authorized personnel. Signage is posted at entrances.
FOOD/BEVERAGES ON CAMPUS (NEW)
To comply with USDA and state nutrition guidelines, the District has updated its Food/Beverages on School Campus guidelines. See the attached "Guidelines for Food/Beverages on School Campus 2026-2027" for details, or contact Student Support Services at (626) 307-3427.
STUDENT USE OF PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Under California's new Phone-Free Schools Act (AB 3216), personal devices (phones, smart watches, etc.) are prohibited during the school day, including recess and lunch. Students who bring one will be issued a phone case; the phone must stay in the case, closed, all day, and unlocks at dismissal ($20 fee if lost/damaged). Devices used in violation may be collected, with parent pickup possibly required. The District isn't responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged devices. Exceptions apply for emergencies, staff authorization, medical need, or IEP/504 requirements.
DISTRICT OFFICE RENOVATION
The Main Office Entrance is temporarily closed for renovation. Please use the Southeast "Side Door" and ring the doorbell; avoid the back parking lot. School offices remain open, 7:45 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
This is a summary of our full welcome-back letter. The complete message, with full details, is attached in English, Spanish, Mandarin, and Vietnamese. Questions? Contact your child's school office or the District Office at (626) 307-3400.
Anita Chu, Superintendent
