Superintendent’s Message

Graduating class of 2025 visits AVES before they say goodbye
Welcome to the 2025–26 school year in the Anderson Valley Unified School District! It is with great pride and excitement that I welcome you to our community of learners, where tradition, innovation, and student success go hand in hand.
 
At Anderson Valley Elementary School, Anderson Valley Junior/Senior High School, and Peachland Preschool, we are proud to serve generations of families—many of our students walk the same halls their parents and grandparents once did. This deep connection to our schools reflects the strong bonds and shared commitment that define our valley.
 
This year brings continued growth and exciting improvements across our campuses. At AVHS, we are thrilled to see the all-weather track taking shape and recently completed renovations to classrooms and science labs that will provide students with modern, engaging learning spaces. Planning is also underway for a full renovation of the high school gym. Meanwhile, AVES is preparing to unveil a brand-new kitchen and upgraded facilities designed to better serve our elementary students. These projects reflect our commitment to creating safe, vibrant, and inspiring environments for all learners.
 
Our dedicated staff are the heart of our schools. Their passion for teaching, focus on student engagement, and unwavering belief in every child’s potential make our district truly special. We are especially proud of our FFA program—recognized as one of the best in the state—which provides students with exceptional opportunities for leadership, learning, and growth.
 
We are deeply grateful to our community, whose generous spirit helps make dreams possible. Last year, nearly $400,000 in local scholarships were awarded to a graduating class of fewer than 30 seniors—an incredible testament to our collective investment in the future.
 
As we look ahead, we remain committed to meeting every student’s unique needs through our implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). This framework ensures that each learner receives the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional support necessary to thrive. We are also excited about the promising potential of joining the California Community Schools Partnership Program, which would further expand our ability to support students and families.
 
In Anderson Valley, we value our diversity and strive to be an inclusive community where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported. I invite you to join us in making this a year of learning, connection, and shared success.
Here’s to a fantastic 2025–26 school year!
 
Sincerely,

 Kristin Larson Balliet
 Superintendent, Anderson Valley Unified School District