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Castro Valley Elementary School

CVE’s the place to be!

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CVE's First Multicultural Parade
Jersey Day 2025
Multicultural Fair 2025
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Dia de los Muertos Assembly 2024
Lunar New Year
Autumn Moon Festival
LNY Assembly
CVE Assembly
Di de los Muertos
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Three children wearing Santa hats pose in front of Christmas decorations.
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Upcoming Events

View the full calendar to see all the exciting events we have happening in the next few weeks and months!

CVE’s Core Values

The core values of Castro Valley Elementary serve as the foundation for our school’s culture, guiding how we teach, lead, learn, and interact each day. Rooted in our belief that every child deserves to feel a strong sense of belonging and purpose, our values ensure that each student receives an educational experience that allows them to shine—academically, socially, and emotionally.

We believe that when students feel safe, valued, and affirmed, they are empowered to take risks, build confidence, and reach their full potential. Our core values reflect a shared commitment to equity, inclusion, and high expectations for all. They remind us to celebrate the diverse identities, languages, and cultures that enrich our school community, and to create learning spaces where students are seen, heard, and supported.

At CVE, our values are more than statements—they are daily actions. They guide how we build relationships, make decisions, design instruction, and partner with families. They are the heartbeat of a school culture rooted in respect, responsibility, collaboration, and joy in learning.

 

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Honor & Celebrate Diversity

Our school community embraces students’ cultures, languages, and backgrounds as powerful assets that enrich classroom learning, strengthen relationships, and foster a deeper sense of connection and belonging. We intentionally create spaces where students’ identities are affirmed, their lived experiences are honored, and their cultural knowledge is viewed as a source of wisdom and pride. This approach not only enhances academic engagement but also nurtures empathy, respect, and unity across our diverse community.

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Collaboration & Collective Responsibility 

Staff, students, and families work together in partnership to pursue academic excellence and personal growth for every learner. We recognize that when schools and families collaborate with trust and shared purpose, students benefit from a strong network of support that nurtures their confidence, curiosity, and resilience. Through open communication, high expectations, and mutual respect, we create a learning environment where every child is encouraged to thrive and reach their fullest potential—both as a student and as a whole human being.

 

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Equity & “All Means All”

Equity is at the heart of all we do. At Castro Valley Elementary, we believe that every child—regardless of background, identity, or circumstance—deserves a fair and just opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. We understand that equity is not about treating everyone the same, but about meeting each student where they are and honoring their unique needs, strengths, and aspirations. “All means all” is not just a phrase—it is a promise. A promise to hold every child to high expectations, to advocate fiercely for their potential, and to build a school culture where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered to shine.

 

School Profile
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Vision:

At Castro Valley Elementary, we strive to create a nurturing, inclusive, and dynamic learning environment where every student can thrive. We are deeply committed to building a safe and welcoming campus where each child experiences a strong sense of belonging and is valued for their unique identity, voice, and contributions.

Grounded in the power of authentic relationships, we work to understand and support the diverse needs of every learner—fostering their academic, social, and emotional growth. With an intentional focus on equity, we use data-informed practices to tailor instruction and provide targeted support that helps all students reach their full potential.

Our collective mission is to empower confident, compassionate, and curious individuals—equipped with the skills, mindset, and resilience to flourish in school and in life.

 

Mission:

CVE prepares all students to achieve excellence by providing high quality education aimed at empowering lifelong learners who positively impact their families, communities and the world.

Grades: Transitional Kindergarten – 5th
Enrollment: 830 students
Principal: Principal Name
Assistant Principal: Assistant Principal Name
School Hours: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Principal’s Message

Mrs. Contreras brings over 20 years of experience in education, grounded in a deep commitment to student success and equity for all learners. A proud member of the CVE Family for the past 17 years, she cares deeply about the students, families, and staff who make up this vibrant community.
 

A woman with long, wavy brown hair smiles at the camera.To Our CVE Family,

It is an incredible honor to continue serving the Castro Valley Elementary community—a place that has held a special place in my heart for many years. As an educator with 20 years of experience, I have had the privilege of working alongside students, families, and colleagues in a variety of roles, including classroom teacher, RTI Specialist, and proud CVE parent. Each chapter of this journey has strengthened my belief in the power of inclusive, student-centered education and the importance of a connected, caring school community.

Our collective work is grounded in the understanding that every child holds unlimited potential. My continued vision for CVE is to foster an inclusive, welcoming, and equitable learning environment—one where all students feel a strong sense of belonging and are challenged, supported, and celebrated. We will continue to center joy, curiosity, compassion, and high expectations in all that we do.

 

This year, we will build upon the strong foundation we’ve created together. Our focus remains on:

  • Elevating academic excellence through inclusive, rigorous instruction;

  • Honoring the diverse identities and experiences of our students, families, and staff;

  • Deepening our commitment to equity, anti-racism, and social-emotional wellness;

  • Strengthening collaboration between home and school through authentic partnerships.

I believe that trust, transparency, and shared responsibility are essential to student success. When educators, families, and students work together with open hearts and shared purpose, we create the conditions where every child can thrive.

At CVE, we are proud to uphold the CVUSD vision that “All Means All.” This is more than a statement—it is a call to action. We are committed to ensuring that every child, regardless of background or identity, has access to the opportunities, supports, and relationships they need to flourish.

Together, we will continue to live out CVUSD’s Core Values by:

  • Empowering students to thrive in their own academic journey;

  • Celebrating the unique strengths and gifts of every learner;

  • Building a team of caring adults who nurture students’ academic and social-emotional growth;

  • Ensuring our school is a safe, inclusive place where all are treated with dignity and respect;

  • Uplifting students through access, equity, diversity, anti-racism, and human rights;

  • Engaging the voices of our full community to raise compassionate, capable future leaders.

Thank you for your partnership, your trust, and your unwavering commitment to our students. I look forward to another incredible year together at CVE.

With gratitude and excitement,
Elizabeth Duran Contreras
Principal, Castro Valley Elementary