North Star News
January 16, 2026
Principal's Letter
Dear North Star Community,
We had a wonderful week on campus, filled with learning, laughter, and great energy across our community. It has been a joy to see our students engaged and thriving, and we are very much looking forward to the exciting community events ahead: Family Dodgeball, the Family Dance, and our groovy NSA Auction.
You’ll find more information about these events below and in the coming weeks. As always, thank you for the incredible community we continue to build together. Enjoy the three-day weekend, and I hope your family finds time to relax, recharge, and do something you love.
With gratitude,
Erin Kekos
Principal, North Star Academy
Approved 2026-2027 Instructional Calendar
The RCSD Board recently approved the 2026–27 instructional calendar. This includes confirmed start/end dates, school breaks, and conference weeks for all TK–8 students in the district.
Key Dates
First day of school: Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Last day of school: Friday, June 4, 2027
We encourage you to use this calendar to help plan vacations and routine medical appointments during breaks to avoid missing school days. :)
Parcel Tax Discussion | Jan 22
Addressing Budget Challenges in Our Schools
A group of Redwood City parents, staff, and community members is hosting a meeting to explore options for a potential parcel tax measure for the 2026 school year. The discussion will focus on addressing the District’s projected $5.5 million budget deficit and the potential impacts on programs, staffing, and services at local schools.
Meeting Details:
Date: Thursday, January 22, 2026
Time: 5:30 pm
Location: Sports Basement, The Grove
This is an opportunity for parents, teachers, and staff to learn more, ask questions, and share ideas about ways the community might respond to funding challenges. The meeting is open to anyone interested in understanding how a parcel tax could address the budget deficit in Redwood City schools.
Celebration of Cultures Meeting | Jan 28
Help Plan NSA’s Celebration of Cultures!
- Join our committee to organize this May's cultural extravaganza by connecting with us at our kick-off meeting on Wednesday, January 28th at 7pm via Zoom.
- If you'd like to host a cultural table or have a recommendation for a cultural performer, let us know here!
What is the Celebration of Cultures?
Held outdoors on the North Star campus, insightful displays are shared by families proudly showcasing their heritage. Kids are engaged in cultural activities and games while groups from around the Bay Area are singing, dancing, and performing their unique cultural talents. Top off the night with delicious food from samples to our popular food trucks. It's a night of celebration for the whole family!
🔸 Contact Keri at events@nsaparents.com
Family Dodgeball Night | Jan 31
Join your fellow North Star families for an action-packed evening full of dodgeball fun! Whether you're a dodgeball pro or a first-timer, this night is all about family fun with our awesome North Star community.
- Saturday, January 31
- 5 - 7pm
- SportsHouse, Redwood City
🔸Contact: Kelley
Spirit Day | Jan 23
Friday, Jan 23-Cancer Awareness Day
Wear your grade’s assigned color to help raise awareness and show support!
Third Grade: Red
Fourth Grade: Orange
Fifth Grade: Yellow
Sixth Grade: Green
Seventh Grade: Blue
Eighth Grade: Pink
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