Week Four - Spring 2026

Principal’s Message: 

It was Senior Night for our boys and girls basketball teams last Friday, and with Granite Bay as the opposing team, the gym was packed and loud in all the best ways. Del Oro won both games, and the energy from the rival student sections made it a memorable night. Our Black Hole theme was Star Wars, complete with light sabers, Vader helmets, and a few well-timed Wookie sounds. The moment that stood out most came after the final buzzer, when two students, still in full Star Wars gear, walked through the stands and picked up every piece of trash they could find. Thank you, Hepana and Evan, for living out the Del Oro character pillars and making us proud.

• A Thankful Oak Ridge Parent: After our girls' basketball game last week, an Oak Ridge parent reached out to our athletic director with a heartfelt message thanking our coach, players, and fans for their kindness, empathy, and sportsmanship. While the scoreboard didn't turn out the way we'd like, the way our community demonstrated outstanding character mattered far more. Moments like this are a powerful reminder of who we strive to be. Please take a moment to read this thoughtful note from a grateful parent.
• Student Leadership Opportunity: We are now accepting applications for the PUHSD Student Board Member for the 2026–2027 school year. This role is best suited for a current 10th or 11th-grader looking for a great way to positively influence our school and district. It'll be a great experience to brag about on a resume or college application. The Student Board Member serves as a liaison between students and the school board, sharing student perspectives to help inform conversations and decisions. It is a meaningful opportunity to grow as a leader, contribute to the broader school community, and earn a $1,250 continuing education scholarship. Applications are due February 27.  Don't hesitate to come see me if you are interested or want more info.
• Dance Team Champs: The Del Oro Dance Team took home first place again in the Musical Theater category at their competition this weekend.  Check out these pics, and you'll see that they've got a thing or two to brag about (see what I did there?) If you are interested in watching them perform, there's an opportunity tomorrow at Bella Vista High School.  Here are the expected times of their performances.
• Rickabaugh's Awesomeness: Monday night was the annual "Administrator of the Year" dinner for Placer County, and this year we got to celebrate one of our own.  Matt Rickabaugh has been positively shaping the Del Oro community since he was a student here back in the 1900s.  He spent several years as a teacher here and, for the last 5 years, has served this community as an assistant principal.  The thoughtful positivity he brings every day makes us all better.  The honor of Placer County Admin of the Year is well-deserved! 
• Closet & Cupboard: In partnership with the Del Oro Parents Club, we are excited to announce the opening of Closet & Cupboard, a space designed to support Del Oro and Confluence West students and families in need. Beginning today, Closet & Cupboard will be open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 2 to 4 PM. Donations may also be dropped off in the front office during school hours. Whether you are shopping or donating, thank you for being part of our community.
• Registration Time: It is that exciting time of year when students are registering for next year’s classes. On Wednesday, we hosted our annual course preview day, giving current 9th, 10th, and 11th-graders a chance to explore options they might pursue next year. At the same time, our soon-to-be Golden Eagles are beginning to choose their first high school classes. When several of my friends realized their 8th graders had lots of questions about the Del Oro experience, we solved the problem the Del Oro way. We hosted a registration session in my living room for students and parents. Lots of great questions, good conversations, and excitement about what lies ahead.
• It's Fight Song Time: The Del Oro Fight Song is a unifying part of our community.  This week, we had the chance to teach one of our newest staff members a trick for faking it until she can learn the words.  Take a look at the video to see how she pulled it off.