Upcoming Events
California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress
California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress
CAASPP testing for all 11th-grade students will take place from May 18-29. These state assessments measure student progress in English language arts, mathematics, and science, and provide valuable insight into college and career readiness.
Strong performance on CAASPP, especially on the Smarter Balanced assessments, can support students beyond high school, as results may be used by participating colleges and universities to demonstrate readiness and potentially reduce the need for additional placement testing.
Families will receive a detailed letter before testing with important dates, expectations, and tips to support student success. We encourage all juniors to come well-rested, on time, and ready to do their best. Your support plays an important role in helping students feel confident and prepared.
OC Artist of the Year-
OC Artist of the Year-
Lucius Acker
Lucius Acker
Wednesday night was an unforgettable celebration of the arts, and we could not be more proud of Esperanza High School senior Lucius Acker for being named the 2026 Orange County Artist of the Year in Fine Arts.
Out of more than 80,000 high school students across Orange County, 888 students were nominated by their teachers, including 164 in the Fine Arts category. From there, only 16 students were selected as semifinalists, and ultimately just four finalists remained. After submitting a detailed portfolio, writing an authentic artist statement, and interviewing before a panel of five judges, Lucius was selected for this incredible honor.
Lucius’s life and his art are so deeply connected — Lucius is art, and art is Lucius. His creativity, authenticity, and dedication to his craft are evident in everything he creates, and this recognition is so well deserved. He also delivered a thoughtful and eloquent acceptance speech that reflected the same depth, humility, and artistry that define both his work and his character.
This moment would not be possible without the incredible guidance and mentorship of Esperanza art teacher Lynn Magnin, whose passion, encouragement, and dedication continue to inspire students to find their voice and pursue excellence through the arts. The impact of great teachers can be seen in the success, confidence, and creativity of students like Lucius.
Congratulations, Lucius, and congratulations to Mrs. Magnin on this extraordinary achievement. Esperanza is so proud of you both and grateful for the amazing way you represent our school and community.
EHS Swimmer Qualifies for State
EHS Swimmer Qualifies for State
Congratulations to Esperanza’s own Madeleine Hurley of the Lady Aztecs swim team on an incredible postseason performance! Madeleine captured two gold medals at the Freeway Conference Swim Championships, earning first place finishes in both the 100 Free and the 100 Back.
She continued her outstanding season at the CIF-SS Swim Championships, where she placed 6th in the 100 Free and 5th in the 100 Back. Her impressive time of 56.60 in the 100 Back broke Esperanza’s school record, previously set in 2022.
With that performance, Madeleine’s time now ranks among the top 40 in the state of California. She has also qualified to compete at the CIF California State Swimming & Diving Championships, which will be held May 15–16 at the Clovis Olympic Swim Complex in Fresno/Clovis. Madeleine is expected to compete in both the 100 Free and 100 Back events as she continues her remarkable season.
Congratulations, Madeleine, on these incredible accomplishments and for representing Esperanza with excellence in the pool!
EHS Dance Team Shines at End of the Year Show
EHS Dance Team Shines at End of the Year Show
Esperanza High School’s talented Dance Team dazzled audiences at their End of the Year Show, showcasing an incredible evening of creativity, athleticism, and school spirit. The performance highlighted the hard work and dedication the dancers have demonstrated throughout the year, featuring a variety of routines that reflected their versatility and passion for dance. From high-energy performances to emotional lyrical pieces, each routine demonstrated the team’s growth, artistry, and commitment to excellence.
The evening featured special solo performances, student-choreographed routines, and many heartfelt moments that celebrated the close-knit bond within the program. A special highlight of the night was the recognition of the team’s four seniors — Kaila Gonzales, Ella Dimaio, Maddy Paine, and Hannah Brady — all of whom will continue their dance careers at the collegiate level. Their leadership, dedication, and passion for dance have left a lasting impact on the EHS Dance program.
Special recognition goes to Dance Director Shea and coaches Aubrey and Ashlynn for their dedication, creativity, and leadership in guiding the team throughout the season. Their commitment to supporting and developing student performers was evident in every aspect of the show.
Family, friends, staff, and students filled the audience to support and applaud the performers for an unforgettable night of entertainment. Congratulations to the EHS Dance Team, Director Shea, and the graduating seniors on a fantastic performance and a successful season!
Esperanza Entertainment Unit:
Big Band Blowout 2026!
We’re excited to invite you to our upcoming jazz concert on May 21 at 7:00 PM in the Esperanza High School Theater. The evening will feature performances by our three jazz bands, along with Bernardo’s jazz band, and a special guest appearance by acclaimed saxophonist Alexa Tarantino of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra!
Tickets are $15 for theater seating and $10 for floor seating.
Thank you again for your continued support of our music program!
Bradley Davis
EHS Band Director
Teacher/ Staff Appreciation
Teacher/ Staff Appreciation
We are celebrating our Teachers and Staff on May 18th -22nd.
If you are willing and able, we would greatly appreciate any donations to help us make this week extra special:
Gift Cards (around $5 to a variety of places such as Starbucks, Blue Scoop, Chipotle, etc.)
Expo Markers
Tissue Boxes
Pens/Pencils
Air Fresheners
Sticky Notes
Snacks & Drinks – chips, granola bars, soda, sparkling water, trail mix, cookies, candy…anything you’d like to share!
No contribution is too small—every item helps us show our gratitude, and it truly goes a long way. Please drop off donations to the front office
Thank you so much for your generosity and for helping us celebrate the amazing staff who give so much to our Aztec community.
ATTENTION: Unserved Detention & Saturday School Hours!!
Students with unserved hours may be unable to participate in end-of-year activities.
Dear Aztec Families,
As we approach the end of the academic year and prepare for upcoming celebrations, we want to remind you that students with outstanding Detention and/or Saturday School hours are encouraged to complete them as soon as possible.
Students who DO NOT CLEAR THEIR OUTSTANDING HOURS will be placed on the official HOLD-LIST and may be unable to participate in end-of-year activities.
To support students, time has been set aside each school day—before school, during break, lunch, and after school in the Attendance Office—for students to serve their hours. We understand students have many commitments, and this flexible schedule is designed to help them complete their requirements in time.
We appreciate your partnership in ensuring all students clear their hours and are able to fully participate in end-of-year events. Please contact our Dean of Students with any questions.
Mrs. Maldonado-Placentia
Dean of Students
Contact Mrs. Maldonado-Placentia directly at:
dplascencia@pylusd.org (ext. 13110)
Check Out The Flyers Below for Graduation Activities & Info!
Grad InfoActivities Flyer.pdf
Questions? Please contact Taylor Jones at tjones@ocbigs.org
California Men’s Service Challenge:
Mentorship & Scholarship Opportunity!
The California Men’s Service Challenge is a free, public event focused on mentorship, leadership, and connecting young men with local leaders, creators, and entrepreneurs.
Event details:
Saturday, May 16
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Anaheim North Net Training Center
Open to males ages 16–21
Students who attend will have access to mentorship sessions, networking opportunities, and community resources. There will be two $1,000 scholarships awarded and one $1,700 scholarship awarded by the Fire Chief, along with raffle prizes like Disneyland tickets and more.
Please scan the QR code to RSVP! (Deadline is May 15)
Activities
Aztecs on Air
Aztecs on Air
YouTube Channel
YouTube Channel
Please check out the latest news on the NEW Aztecs on Air YouTube channel. Weekly episodes will be uploaded every Monday and Friday. Enjoy!
EHS: Chili Cook Off!
The Esperanza Chili Cook-Off promises to be an exciting, community-centered event that brings together students, families, and local supporters for an afternoon of food, entertainment, and school spirit!
The event takes place on May 30th from 12:00 PM to 3PM at 1830 Kellogg Dr, Anaheim, CA
This event is free admission and offers a wide variety of activities designed to engage guests of all ages. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample a diverse selection of chili recipes prepared by talented student culinary teams from across the district by purchasing tasting tickets, available at $7 for five tickets or $12 for ten.
Enjoy chili tastings along with food and drinks available for purchase, with all proceeds supporting student programs. The event will feature live entertainment, games, and family-friendly activities like face painting, bingo, and carnival-style contests, including watermelon and donut eating challenges. The day begins with a welcome ceremony and concludes with the chili awards recognizing top teams.
With the help of volunteers and guest judges, and a focus on safety and inclusivity, the Esperanza Chili Cook-Off promises a fun, community-filled afternoon for all!
If you would like to help contribute, donate, or volunteer (Gift baskets, gift cards, etc for raffles and prizes):
Please contact jcallahan-rop@pylusd.org
Senior Graduation Talks/ Packets
Senior Graduation Talks/ Packets
Click here for all the Senior packet with all the info. Click Here for a summarized slide show of events.
BLOOD DRIVE
BLOOD DRIVE
We have our final blood drive of the year on Thurs, May 21st. If you are 16 years or older you are more that welcome to donate. Get a permission slip outside the ASB room and turn it in by May 20th.
Every donor will get a $10 gift card to In n Out.
Parents and family members are welcome to donate as well.
Thanks for saving lives!
LINK CREW LEADER
LINK CREW LEADER
Want to welcome the Freshmen class of 2030 to Esperanza? Sign up to be a link crew leader! You can earn up to 10 hours of Community Service!
Applications due by Wed, May 20th.
Summer obligations:
Mandatory summer Training: Sat, Aug 8th from 8am -12pm
Mandatory Link Crew Orientation: Mon, Aug 10th from 8am -12pm
CardBoard Boat Race
CardBoard Boat Race
Want to test your luck in building a cardboard boat to get across the pool? Now is your chance! Click the link to get all the rules and to sign up. The boat race will take place on Thurs, May 28th, in the pool at lunch. Sign Up Here
Get in the game with go fan
Get in the game with go fan
The GoFan Link for tickets to all Athletics games is listed below. The QR code also takes you to the link.
Spring Sports Physicals!
Student-athletes can complete their required sports physical at the district’s upcoming Spring Physicals event for only $40. Physicals are required for all current high school students and incoming freshmen who plan to participate in high school athletics or band.
Students may attend either event:
May 20 – Valencia High School, Main Gym (4–7 PM)
A permission slip is required for entry and students 14 and under must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.
Football - Parent Meeting (incoming 9th,returners, new players @ EHS)
Football - Parent Meeting (incoming 9th,returners, new players @ EHS)
5.20.26 - 6:00 PM Esperanza Library
LaCrosse
LaCrosse
5.18 .26 - W. LaCrosse Banquet
Track and Field
Track and Field
5.21 .26 - Banquet
Boys Tennis
Boys Tennis
5.21.26 - Banquet
Boys Volleyball
5.27.26 Banquet
Boys Golf
5.21 Banquet
Softball
Softball
5.21 Banquet
ATTention seniors: Important transcript information
ATTention seniors: Important transcript information
"Do you need your transcript?"
As we approach the end of the year, start thinking about setting up your Parchment account so you can easily access and send your school transcripts!
When placing your order, please pay close attention to these two options:
Select "Send Now": If you need your current, official transcript sent immediately for applications or personal use.
Select "Hold for Grades": If you want Parchment to wait until the end of the semester to send your final, official transcript once your newest grades are posted.
Attention Rising Seniors!
Attention Rising Seniors!
You are invited to join in virtual 3-day UC Application Summer Bootcamps to learn about the UC system, majors, and the UC application process! See flyer with all the details. Space is extremely limited, so students are encouraged to RSVP here by the May 22 deadline. Available sessi are: June 23-25 or July 7-9.
Required Sessions
Day 1: Major vs. Career | UC Overview
Day 2: UC Application Overview | Academic History
Day 3: Activities & Awards | PIQ Overview
Don’t Miss a Step: Community College Enrollment Guide
Not sure what steps to take for community college? Check out the Community College Cheat Sheet to guide you. You can access this form with direct links on the EHS website, under Counseling tab, Community College Cheat Sheet or copy and paste the link below. It’s also available on the EHS Class of 2026 Google Classroom.
Start by claiming your Student Portal. Once you're in, complete the Online Orientation and, if required, an Assessment Questionnaire. After finishing those, you’ll need to Meet with a Counselor to create your Educational Plan—this may involve scheduling an in-person or virtual drop-in appointment. Once your plan is set, you can Register for Classes. Be sure to also explore the Promise Program to ensure you meet all the requirements for up to two years of Free Tuition.
https://canva.link/bivjr9fb4xzn7oa
Last Chance! SCC Early Welcome Registration – May 22
Last Chance! SCC Early Welcome Registration – May 22
Attention Seniors! Planning to attend Santiago Canyon College this fall but couldn’t make it to the Early Welcome field trip? Here’s one final chance to get the support you need. Santiago Canyon College is hosting a last Early Welcome (Registration) event:
Early Welcome: Final Call
📅 Friday, May 22, 2026
⏰ 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
This event mirrors the previous Early Welcome sessions and is ideal for students who:
Missed their original Early Welcome date
Were unable to attend the make-up session
Have just recently applied to SCC
Students who participate will earn priority registration for the spring semester as first-year SCC students! 🙌
See Mrs. Botello in the College and Career Center for details.
Seniors Attending Fullerton College Next Fall:
For students who still need to meet with a counselor, there are currently two available options:
Virtual Counseling Sessions These appointments fill quickly since many students still need counseling support. Sessions are held via Zoom on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout May from 4:00 PM–6:00 PM. Sign-up link: https://esars.fullcoll.edu/eSARS/Outreach_Online/eSARS.asp?WCI=Init&WCE=Settings
Future Hornet Sessions These in-person sessions begin in June and take place at the Fullerton College Counseling Center on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Students can meet with a counselor and receive assistance with class registration during these sessions. Sign-up link: https://fullcoll.event451.sites.451.io/event/1365939?p=ZnVsbGNvbGwuZXZlbnRzLjEzNjU5Mzk%3D
Three courses have been added to the fall Collegelink lineup!
Three courses have been added to the fall Collegelink lineup!
New 👮 AJ 223 Criminal Investigation
New 👮AJ 151 Police Report Writing
NUTR 🥗210 Human Nutrition
Get a jumpstart on your future by earning free college credit while still in high school through Fullerton College’s CollegeLink Program. These engaging courses transfer to most four-year universities and help prepare you for success after graduation.
Even better, all classes are fully online, so you can learn from anywhere while balancing your high school schedule.
Students currently enrolled in a Spring 2026 Dual Enrollment class do not need to reapply. (Fall 2025 students also do not need to reapply.)
Why take a college class in high school?
* Earn college credit early and save time and money
* Get a head start on your college pathway
* Experience real college-level courses
* Enjoy the flexibility of online learning
Fall 2026 Collegelink Courses
Fall 2026 Collegelink Courses
🤖 NEW: BUS 256 Artificial Intelligence & Prompt Engineering
🎨 ARTH 100 Introduction to Visual Culture
📚 ETHS 150 Introduction to Chicano Studies
🥗 NEW: NUTR 220 Sports Nutrition
👮 AJ 100 Introduction to Criminal Justice
👮 NEW: AJ 223 Criminal Investigation
👮 NEW: AJ 151 Police Report Writing
🥗NUTR 210 Human Nutrition
🎤COMM 100 Introduction to Public Speaking
🕹️ NEW: CISG 103 History of Video Games
🏠 IDES 100 Introduction to Interior Design
📰 NEW: JOURN 100 Mass Media Survey
🌍 SOC 101 Introduction to Sociology
Ready to get started?
Complete the CollegeLink Interest Form HERE to receive a call slip and begin the process.
You can also find the flyer with direct links on the school website under Counseling → CollegeLink: Free College Courses.
Students in grades 9-11th grade!
Exciting new dual enrollment courses from Cypress College are launching this fall! 🎉
Interested in the Health Science field? This is your chance to get ahead in high school while earning college credit at the same time.
👉 Check out the new course offerings!
⚡ Get a head start: Complete Step 1 on the flyer by beginning your Fall 2026 application early. We’ll help you with the remaining steps!
📝 Ready to join?
Follow the steps on the flyer, or
Complete the Cypress College dual enrollment interest form to receive a call slip and get started.
Orange County United Way, in partnership with Doug Chaffee’s office, is offering a free Youth Career Connections Summer Career & Life Prep Academy at Fullerton College from June 16 to July 10. This program is open to current 7th–11th grade students in the Anaheim, Fullerton, Brea, and Placentia-Yorba Linda school districts.
Students will have the chance to explore different careers, visit local companies, and build their resumes, and will receive a $250 scholarship along with a certificate upon completion.
The application deadline is May 29 — scan the QR code to apply.
Save the date, future Mounties! 📅
🎓 Mt. SAC High School Outreach invites you to Spring Info Day!
🗓️ Saturday, May 30, 2026
⏰ 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
📍 Summit Event Center (Building 410)
✨ What to expect:
🚶 Campus tours
📊 Resource presentations
🍔 Food & 🎶 music
💡 A chance to learn more about college life and opportunities
👉 Don’t miss this opportunity to explore campus and get informed about your future at Mt. SAC!
Repeat Announcements
Need extra help?
Check out the flyer for details about tutoring every Tuesday at lunch in Room 258, hosted by Esperanza’s National Honor Society students. Tutoring is available for all subjects, so don’t miss this great opportunity to get support!
ESY: HIGH SCHOOL VOLUNTEER!
Looking for a meaningful way to give back this summer? Students are invited to volunteer for the Extended School Year (ESY) program!
This is a great opportunity to earn community service hours while gaining hands-on experience in education, building leadership and communication skills, and making a positive impact in the community. Volunteers will work alongside staff and students at various school sites throughout the program dates from late June through July.
We are seeking responsible, patient, and positive individuals who have an interest in education or working with students.
Be part of something that truly makes a difference—sign up today using the QR code or link on the flyer!
Hello Aztecs! Summer CollegeLink registration is now open (9th-11th)!
Get a head start on your future by earning free college credit while still in high school through Fullerton College’s CollegeLink Program. These engaging courses transfer to most four-year universities and can help prepare you for success after graduation.
Best of all, most classes are fully online, allowing you to learn from anywhere while still managing your high school schedule. (The only exception is Introduction to Biotechnology with Lab, which meets in person at Fullerton College.)
Summer 2026 CollegeLink Courses
🎸MUS 119 History of Rock (Class is full)
🎨ARTH 100 Introduction to Visual Culture
📚ETHS 150 Introduction to Chicano Studies (Class is full)
🥼BIOL 190 Introduction to Biotechnology with Lab (see details below)
🚔NEW: AJ 230 Crime Scene Techniques
Note: Students currently enrolled in a Spring 2026 Dual Enrollment class do not need to reapply. (Fall 2025 students do not need to reapply also)
Don’t miss this opportunity to jumpstart your future!
Introduction to Biotechnology with Lab🔬
This course must be taken together with the lab and meets in person at Fullerton College. It is designed for students entering 11th or 12th grade, and Chemistry is recommended as a prerequisite.
Ready to get started: Complete the Collegelink Interest Form to receive a call slip to get started.
Important: Seniors, claim your cal grant award!!
Important: Seniors, claim your cal grant award!!
Seniors: If you received notice that you’re eligible for a Cal Grant, be sure to claim your award! To do this, you’ll need to create a WebGrants for Students (WG4S) account and confirm your school of attendance (see Step 3A on the flyer). After graduation, log back into your WG4S account to verify your high school graduation status (Step 3B). Once both steps are complete, your Cal Grant award will be officially claimed.
Be sure to review the remaining steps as well.
https://mygrantinfo.csac.ca.gov/
OC Pathways Student Ambassador Program – Now Accepting Applications!
The Orange County Department of Education is now accepting applications for the 2026–27 OC Pathways Student Ambassador Program, a unique leadership opportunity for students in grades 7–12 enrolled in career technical education pathways. This program empowers students to build leadership skills, connect with industry professionals, and collaborate with peers while working on real-world projects that address community challenges.
Participants will engage in monthly virtual leadership sessions, attend in-person events, and complete a capstone project focused on creating meaningful solutions within their communities. Students will also gain valuable experience in communication, problem-solving, and professional networking.
Applications are open from April 20 through May 22. Interested students can apply through the OC Pathways website.
https://goodnews.pylusd.org/?s=esperanza
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