4.5-star rating reflects the expert medicine, seamless care, and outstanding service provided to more than 1.5 million Medicare Advantage members in CA

By Elissa Harrington, Senior Media Relations & PR Representative, Kaiser Permanente Northern California

OAKLAND, Calif. October 27, 2026 — Kaiser Permanente’s Medicare Advantage health plan in California is among the highest rated plans in the state, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ 2027-star ratings.

Kaiser Permanente California earned 4.5 stars. The top rating is 5 stars.

Kaiser Permanente’s Medicare HMO health plan in California has been highly rated for 17 consecutive years (2011-2027) and is tied for the highest performing health plan in the state.

“Every day our Northern California care teams deliver personalized, compassionate care to our Medicare health plan members, helping them lead healthy and productive lives,” said Mike Bowers, FACHE, president of Kaiser Permanente’s Northern California region, which serves more than 1.5 million Medicare health plan members. “We’re proud to be recognized nationally for the high-quality care and outstanding service we provide.”

This high rating reflects the expert medicine, seamless care and outstanding service Kaiser Permanente California and all Kaiser Permanente health plans provide to their Medicare health plan members. For the third year in a row, all Kaiser Permanente Medicare health plans are rated 4 stars or higher.

“Our physicians, nurses, and care teams in Kaiser Permanente Northern California are committed to helping our Medicare health plan members achieve better health outcomes through coordinated, personalized, high-quality care,” said Maria Ansari, MD, FACC, CEO and executive director of The Permanente Medical Group. “These ratings reflect the expertise of our teams and their dedication to supporting the health and well-being of our older adult populations.”

What CMS ratings measure

Every year, CMS publishes Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Medicare prescription drug plan (Part D) ratings. Each year, CMS rates Medicare health and prescription drug plans using a 1-to-5-star scale. The ratings help consumers compare the quality of available plans.

CMS evaluates several key areas to determine star ratings:

• How well health plans help members stay healthy
• How well plans manage ongoing health conditions
• Member experiences
• Customer service
• Access to care
• Pharmacy services

Enrolling in a Kaiser Permanente Medicare health plan

Open enrollment for all 2027 Medicare health plans begins on October 15 and runs through December 7, 2026. Kaiser Permanente is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Kaiser Permanente depends on contract renewal.

Medicare beneficiaries can learn more about the CMS star ratings and Kaiser Permanente’s Medicare health plans by visiting kp.org/medicarestars.

About CMS

CMS is the federal agency that provides health coverage to more than 160 million through Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program and the Health Insurance Marketplace.

About Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.9 million members in 9 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health.

Also arrested in May for assaulting and injuring spouse or cohabitant, more

By Concord Police Department

On Friday, October 23, at about 8:51 p.m., Concord Police Dispatch received a 911 call from a house in the 2300 block of Panoramic Drive in Concord. The caller reported a disturbance between a man and a woman. The man was reported to be armed with a knife. Officers were immediately dispatched and contacted several witnesses.

When the officers attempted to contact occupants of the house, no one responded, and the officers forced entry into the home. Inside the home, a man and woman were found injured with apparent stab wounds. Officers provided immediate medical aid prior to the arrival of Fire/Paramedics. Despite lifesaving efforts, the woman died at the scene. The man was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment and is currently listed in critical condition.

Due to the nature of this incident, detectives from the Concord Police Department – Investigations Division were called to assume the investigation. Investigative follow-up and interviews were conducted. Based on preliminary witness information, there are no outstanding suspects and no ongoing threat to public safety.

On Tuesday morning, Oct. 27th the case was referred to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office for filing considerations. The District Attorney’s Office filed the following charges with additional enhancements against Thomas John Iovenitti (40-year-old Concord male, born 2/27/1986) for the murder of his wife, later identified by the DA’s Office as Alisha Iovenitti:

PC 187(a) – Murder

PC 136.1(b)(1) – Dissuading a Victim or Witness from Reporting a Crime

PC 166(a)(4) – Willful Disobedience of a Court Order

PC 273a(b) x 4 – Child Endangerment

PC 245(a)(1) – Assault with a Deadly Weapon

PC 273.5(a) – Corporal Injury to a Spouse or Cohabitant (Domestic Violence)

Iovenitti remains in custody and is being held on no bail.

If you have any information that may be relevant for this investigation, please contact Detective Justin Wilson at (925) 603-5859 or the anonymous tip line at (925) 603-5836.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the five-foot, 11-inch tall, 210-pound Iovenetti is Hispanic but also described as White, and is being held in the Martinez Detention Facility. His next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 28 at 1:35 p.m. in Superior Court Dept. 5 in Martinez.

According to localcrimenewscom, he was previously arrested on May 9th for false imprisonment by violence, assault with a deadly weapon or assault with force likely to produce great bodily injury, inflicting corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant and cruelty to a child by inflicting injury. Iovenetti was also arrested the day before for use or being under the influence of a controlled substance.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Rep. John Garamendi with his wife, Patti as she speaks at his 13th Annual Women of the Year event on Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. Photos: Garamendi’s official Facebook page

52 women total including more from Solano County

By Cameron Niven, Office of Congressman John Garamendi

BENICIA, CA – On Friday, Oct. 23, 2026, at his 13th annual Women of the Year event, Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA-08) honored 52 women from California’s 8th Congressional District, including 22 from Contra Costa County, who are leaders and visionaries in their communities. Each honoree has made a real difference in our community through public service, business, education and the local economy.

“Every year, I’m honored to recognize the remarkable women of California’s 8th District who serve as the backbone of our community,” said Rep. Garamendi. “They come from every corner of our district and from many different backgrounds, and they work in a wide range of fields. Each is united by the profound impact they have on the people around them.”

“Their commitment and passion for service deserve recognition, and through this award, their contributions will be preserved for generations in the official Congressional Record in Washington, D.C.”

In a post on Facebook following the event the Congressman also wrote, “Yesterday I had privilege of recognizing 52 women from California’s 8th Congressional District at my annual Women of the Year celebration. These women are leaders and visionaries who are making a real difference in our community through public service, business, education, and the local economy. Thank you to every honoree for all you do. Congratulations!”

In addition, Contra Costa County District 1 Supervisor posted photos of the event and celebrated the honorees from West County on his Facebook page including pages from the booklet with a narrative of each of the honorees who live in his district.

He also wrote, “A truly epic day celebrating with the #womenoftheyear from West Contra Costa County! Thank you Representative John Garamendi and Patricia Garamendi for honoring and supporting the women who work to lead our communities with compassion, excellence, and fortitude!”

The 2026 Women of the Year Honorees are:

Contra Costa County:

• Laura Jacques (Antioch)
• Lisa Lacy (Antioch)
• Champagne Brown (El Cerrito)
• Stacy Wayne (El Cerrito)
• Susan Duncan (El Cerrito)
• Christine Mathias (El Sobrante)
• Jamela Smith-Folds (Hercules)
• Christine Dean (Martinez)
• Rachel Shoemake (Martinez)
• Annisha Geran (Pittsburg)
• Kaitlin Clink (Pittsburg)
• Annie King-Meredith (Richmond)
• Elana Bolds (Richmond)
• Maria Del Rocio Martinez Luna (Richmond)
• Mary Ann Dawkins-Padigela (Richmond)
• Dr. Mayra Padilla (Richmond)
• Michelle Denise Milam (Richmond)
• Nwaeze Nmereole (Richmond)
• Shasa Curl (Richmond)
• Amanda Jenkins (San Pablo)
• Dr. Rocio Hernández (San Pablo)
• Yolanda Mendoza (San Pablo)

A video of the event can be found here and see more photos here.

Congressman Garamendi represents California’s 8th District in the U.S. House of Representatives which currently includes portions of Contra Costa County along the northern waterfront from Richmond to Antioch. After the 2026 election, the new district will only include portions of West County.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

AVAIO Digital data center rendering. Source: City of Pittsburg

To express concerns about environmental health and why the decision process did not include them.

“A data center raises issues about the moral implications of how we care for creation and our families.” – Oakland-based Faith in Action East Bay spokesperson

By Theresa Henson, Communications Manager, Faith in Action East Bay

PITTSBURG, CA – With concerns about a data center in their neighborhood, community members will meet with the City Manager, Darin Gale, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, October 28, at St. Peter Martyr Church, 740 Black Diamond Street, Pittsburg.

The data center was recently approved by the City of Pittsburg without community input. Through research meetings and presentations by Stanford experts, residents have learned about the environmental risks and respiratory health problems already affecting Pittsburg and how a possible data center would worsen environmental health.

In a formal meeting that will follow a prepared agenda, the community will seek answers to questions about the data center’s impact and why the decision was made without the input of the community.

The October 28 meeting will not be an open forum but a meeting following a prepared agenda that will uphold values of mutual respect of city officials and the sacred space in which the meeting will be held.

The meeting will begin promptly at 7 p.m. and will be conducted in Spanish, with English interpretation.

The meeting will be available on Zoom: https://bit.ly/Oct28Pittsburg

WHAT: Meeting about the recently approved data center in Pittsburg

WHO: Pittsburg residents and City of Pittsburgh Manager Darin Gale

WHEN: Wednesday, October 28, 2026 7 p.m.

WHERE: St. Peter Martyr Church, Parish Hall, 740 Black Diamond Street, Pittsburg

Asked why faith leaders would expect to be involved in such a City decision and what does a data center have to do with faith, Henson responded, “A data center raises issues about the moral implications of how we care for creation and our families. Faith in Action East Bay builds leaders who are motivated by their faith values to bring healthy changes to their communities — processes which often involve research and actions with civic officials.”

(See related articles here, here, here, here and here)

About Faith in Action East Bay [FIAEB]

Faith in Action East Bay is a multi-faith and multi-racial organizing network made up of more than 23 congregations and over 25,000 families. Since 1972, Oakland Community Organization (OCO), now Faith in Action East Bay, has empowered leaders to advance systemic change, racial justice, and economic equity in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report

By James Laughter, PIO, San Pablo Police Department

San Pablo, CA – On Sunday, October 25, 2026, at approximately 2:27 p.m., San Pablo Police Department officers responded to the 1600 block of 16th Street following a report of a male subject who was possibly deceased inside a parked vehicle.

Upon arrival, officers located a 33-year-old San Pablo resident inside a red Toyota. The male was unresponsive and had apparent injuries. Officers and Con Fire medical personnel rendered medical aid; however, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.

San Pablo Police Department detectives responded and assumed responsibility for the investigation The incident is being investigated as a homicide, and the investigation remains active. The identity of the victim is being withheld pending notifications of next of kin. The suspects(s) have not been apprehended, and no additional information is available for release at this time.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the San Pablo Police Department at (510) 215-3150.

Five projects will connect Californians to training and quality jobs in two emerging industries including at two Bay Area sites

By Anna Champe, Communications Manager, California Workforce Development Board

SACRAMENTO, CA – The California Workforce Development Board (CWDB) today announced $5,744,665 million in Workforce Accelerator Fund (WAF) 14 awards to five projects that will help Californians prepare for and access quality jobs in the state’s growing quantum and fusion industries.

The awards build on Governor Newsom’s recent announcement of new investments and legislation to advance California’s leadership in quantum technology and fusion energy. Quantum and fusion are priority sectors identified in California’s State Economic Blueprint, underscoring the need to support a skilled workforce to drive these emerging industries.

“Expanding on recent state investments in quantum, WAF 14 gives regions across the state an opportunity to prepare workers for these emerging industries,” said Kaina Pereira, Executive Director of the California Workforce Development Board. “By bringing together employers, educators, and workforce partners, these investments will help address key barriers to growth, strengthen California’s workforce, and create new opportunities for Californians.”

The Workforce Accelerator Fund has awarded more than $40 million since 2018 to support partnerships that test, scale, and replicate innovative approaches to workforce development. WAF 14 continues this investment by advancing career pathways in quantum, fusion, and related occupations, connecting Californians to industry-recognized credentials, training, and jobs, including those that do not require a four-year degree.

“Accelerator funds are the first grant I’ve ever worked with that allowed us to try out different solutions and figure out what works best for our individuals,” said Marni Roosevelt, WAF 9 grantee and Director of the Family Resource Center at Los Angeles Valley College.

Watch their success story to learn how WAF helps organizations expand services and create opportunities for Californians facing barriers to employment.

Accelerator 14 Awards

• $1.5 M for San Jose State University Research Foundation, Quantum Computing Hardware Design – creates a three-tier certificate program that prepares students and workers for careers in quantum computing hardware. The program offers flexible pathways from high school through university, with options to enter the workforce or advance to the next certificate level.
• $1.03 M for University of California, Berkeley, Northern California Quantum Training Pipeline – Develops and pilots a regional quantum workforce pipeline from grades 9 through 16, connecting students and job seekers to quantum careers. The project will create an implementation plan for coordinated training at the associate and bachelor’s levels, along with an 8- to 13-week industry-verified credential.
• $993,900 for University of California, Santa Barbara, Q-COAST – establishes a training pathway for hardware technician careers that does not require a four-year degree. The program will prepare workers for jobs in superconductivity, photonic integrated circuits, quantum optics, and fusion.
• $746,040 for Valley Vision, Inc., Quantum Capital – creates a regional workforce system for Greater Sacramento by defining the quantum economy and skills needed, aligning training and credentials with employer needs, and connecting K-12 education through college to quantum careers.
• $1.48 M for University of California, San Diego, Fusion CAL Career Pathway – creates a career pathway from high school through college and university to in-demand fusion jobs. Serving an estimated 160 participants, the pathway includes a stackable, industry-recognized certificate that can be earned in 13 weeks.

Since 2019, CWDB has awarded more than $596 million to support workforce development projects across the state, serving more than 80,500 participants. Grounded in equity, quality jobs, and climate resilience, these investments help Californians with employment challenges, access supportive services, develop in-demand skills, earn industry-recognized credentials, and connect to quality jobs that offer opportunities for long-term career growth.

About CWDB

The California Workforce Development Board forges partnerships with businesses, labor, and government to build an economy defined by equity, quality jobs, and climate resiliency that challenges systemic barriers toward shared economic prosperity.

Photo (top): CCC Superior Court

Free program brings local judges directly to civic, faith-based, educational and nonprofit organizations across the county

By Dan Radovich, ADA and Communications Manager, Contra Costa County Superior Court

MARTINEZ, Calif. – The Contra Costa County Superior Court today introduced its new Judicial Community Engagement Program, which brings judges to community organizations across the county at no cost. Civic groups, service organizations, faith-based organizations, nonprofits, and educational programs may now request a judge to speak at their meetings and events about the work of the courts and how the justice system operates.

The program is part of the Court’s commitment to strengthening its relationships with the community and expanding public understanding of the justice system. Residents have the unique opportunity to gain clarity on commonly misunderstood aspects of court processes directly from members of the bench. This program also supports the Court’s new Strategic Plan for 2027–2029, which names Trusted Courts as one of the its five strategic priorities and calls for greater outreach and education about the role and purpose of the courts.

“The daily business of the courts is rarely seen by members of the public unless they are called as jurors or have a case in court,” said Judge Terri Mockler, who leads the program. “Judges make decisions based on the evidence before them and the law that applies, and those details don’t always fit into a news headline. The goal of this program is to allow members of the community to meet and talk with judges about the work that we do every day. The hope is that the public will walk away with a better understanding of the role of judges and the judiciary in a democratic society. This program gives residents the opportunity to ask questions, hear directly from the judges who serve them, and see the courts as part of their community.”

Who Can Request a Speaker

Requests are welcome from community and civic groups, leadership and service organizations, educational and youth programs, nonprofit and public interest groups, and faith-based organizations. Any organization that brings people together to learn, serve, or engage is encouraged to submit a request.

Presentation Topics

Judges may speak on a range of general educational topics, including:

• The role of the courts in the community
• How cases move through the court system
• The importance of jury service
• How judges reach the bench and the qualifications to become a judge
• Rules of judicial ethics and the judicial discipline system
• Preventing bias
• Judicial training and subject-matter specialties, such as domestic violence, juvenile, family, criminal, and civil law

What Judges Cannot Discuss

Judges are bound by ethical rules that protect the fairness and impartiality of the courts. To uphold those standards, presentations are limited to general educational topics. Judges cannot address the following topics:

• Pending cases. Judges cannot discuss any case that is currently pending.
• Issues that may come before the Court. Judges cannot comment on matters or disputes that may later come before the Court.
• Legal advice or referrals. Judges cannot advise attendees on their own legal matters or provide referrals.

How to Request a Judge

Organizations may submit requests by email to communityoutreach@contracosta.courts.ca.gov. There is no cost to request a judge. Requests should include:

• Organization name
• Primary contact’s name, phone number, and email address
• Description of the event or meeting
• Topic(s) the organization would like the judge to discuss
• Expected number of attendees
• Preferred date(s), time, and location

More information about the Judicial Community Engagement Program is available on the Court’s website: contracosta.courts.ca.gov/judicial-community-engagement-program.

¡Acompáñanos en nuestro primer Paseo de Halloween en el centro de Richmond!

By Richmond Main Street Initiative

Join us for our first Halloween Stroll in Downtown Richmond!

Take a stroll around The LOT, show off your Halloween costumes, and join us for a Halloween parade starting at 6 PM!

This free, family-friendly event will include:

• Halloween Parade starting at 6 PM
• Slime & Science Station hosted by Chevron, where kids can make monster goo
• Mini pumpkin painting while supplies last
• Trick-or-treating at The LOT and participating local businesses

Bring the family and enjoy Halloween in Downtown Richmond! We hope to see you there!

• Thursday October 29th
• 5 pm to 6:30 pm
• 1401 Macdonald Ave., Richmond, CA.94801 (The LOT)

___________________

¡Acompáñanos en nuestro primer Paseo de Halloween en el centro de Richmond!

Recorre The LOT, luce tu disfraz de Halloween y únete a nuestro desfile de Halloween que comienza a las 6 PM.

Este evento gratuito y familiar incluirá:

• Desfile de Halloween a partir de las 6 PM
• Estación de Ciencia y Slime, presentada por Chevron, donde los niños podrán crear su propio slime monstruoso
• Decoración de mini calabazas, hasta agotar existencias
• Truco o trato en The LOT y en los negocios participantes del centro de Richmond

¡Ven con tu familia y disfruta de Halloween en el centro de Richmond! ¡Esperamos verte allí!

• Jueves 29 de Octubre
• 5 pm to 6:30 pm
• 1401 Macdonald Ave., Richmond, CA.94801 (The LOT)

Presented by the Richmond Main Street Initiative.

The Richmond Main Street Initiative, Inc. is a community-based nonprofit corporation dedicated to revitalizing historic Downtown Richmond as a pedestrian-friendly urban village, offering products, services, arts, and entertainment that reflect the community’s rich and diverse heritage.

For more information visit www.richmondmainstreet.com.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Five local bands unite to promote community and civic engagement bringing live music, costumes, community organizations and nonpartisan voter engagement together ahead of the November election.

By Mike Rodriguez, Founder & President, Rage for Democracy

BRENTWOOD, CA — Five local bands will take the stage at the Brentwood Community Center on Friday, October 30, for Night of the Living Loud, an all-ages Halloween rock concert organized by Brentwood-based nonprofit Rage for Democracy.

Sponsored by the City of Brentwood, the event combines live music, a Halloween costume contest, local vendors, community organizations, and nonpartisan civic engagement just days before the November general election.

The lineup features DownbyDown, Dumpster Pyre, Jimmy Party, The Slums, and WheelHouse, bringing together musicians from the local rock and alternative music scene for an evening centered on music, creativity, and community involvement.

Local Musicians Speak Out on Civic Participation

In preparation for the concert, members of the participating bands recently gathered for a meetup, sharing pizza, taking promotional photos, and discussing why voting and community involvement matter to them.

Jouz, singer and guitarist for DownbyDown, emphasized the importance of neighbors supporting one another.

“It’s important to be involved in your community because you want people to look out for you the same way that you would want to look out for them, and vice versa.”

Thomas, guitarist for Dumpster Pyre, spoke about the direct impact voting can have.

“Biggest reason to come out and vote is to have a direct impact on your community and help shape where you are.”

Sebastian, vocalist and guitarist for Jimmy Party, echoed that message.

“Voting is important to get an overall representation of how people feel and getting your voices heard.”

Tyrese, bassist for Dumpster Pyre, offered a straightforward message about participation.

“Think about it this way. Just make a vote. It makes a big change, and that’s all you really need.”

These perspectives reflect the event’s larger goal: helping people recognize that being involved in their communities doesn’t have to begin in a government building or at a political event. Sometimes, it can start with a conversation at a rock show.

Music, Community, and Voter Engagement

Beyond the performances, Night of the Living Loud will feature a Halloween costume contest, band merchandise, local vendors, and tables hosted by community organizations.

Rage for Democracy is also working in partnership with HeadCount, a national nonpartisan nonprofit that promotes voter registration and civic participation through music and live events.

The collaboration reflects a shared belief that music can provide a meaningful connection between young people, their communities, and the democratic process.

The concert is nonpartisan and is not intended to promote any political party or candidate. Instead, the focus is on encouraging individuals to become informed, participate, and recognize the power of their own voices.

The organization is still accepting inquiries from local vendors and businesses interested in participating, providing an opportunity for small businesses, creators, and community groups to connect with concertgoers.

Those interested in vendor spaces, sponsorship opportunities, or community organization participation can contact mike@ragefordemocracy.com for more information.

Building Community Through Music

Rage for Democracy is a Brentwood-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that uses music, civic education, and community service to bring people together.

Its programs include Citizens Civics Club, a free community civics education program; Rage Clean, a volunteer neighborhood cleanup initiative; and the Instrument Closet, a program that makes musical instruments more accessible to the community.

Night of the Living Loud expands on that mission by bringing local musicians, community organizations, businesses, and residents together under one roof.

With the City of Brentwood sponsoring the event’s venue costs, the organization hopes to create an accessible concert experience while supporting the local music scene and introducing attendees to opportunities to get involved in their community.

EVENT INFORMATION

Night of the Living Loud

Friday, October 30, 2026 | 6:00 PM

Brentwood Community Center – 35 Oak Street

Featuring: DownbyDown, Dumpster Pyre, Jimmy Party, The Slums, and WheelHouse

Tickets: $15 in advance | $20 at the door

Admission: All ages

Sponsored by: City of Brentwood

Tickets and additional event information are available at https://www.ragefordemocracy.com.

For vendor inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or additional information, email mike@ragefordemocracy.com.

About Rage for Democracy

Rage for Democracy is a Brentwood-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through nonpartisan civic education, volunteer service, music and creative expression. Guided by the belief that everyone deserves a place to gather, create, connect, and belong, the organization works to make civic and community participation accessible to everyone. www.ragefordemocracy.com.

Source: Educational Results Partnership

By Marcus Walton, Director, Communications and Special Projects, Contra Costa County Office of Education

PLEASANT HILL, Calif.— Forty-six schools and six school districts in Contra Costa County have been named to the 2026 California Honor Roll, a recognition presented by Educational Results Partnership (ERP) and the Campaign for Business and Education Excellence.

The recognition highlights schools and districts that are demonstrating strong student achievement, making measurable progress in closing achievement gaps among historically underserved student groups, and improving outcomes for all students. Among the 2,080 schools and 168 districts recognized statewide, Contra Costa County schools and districts continue to stand out for their commitment to student success.

“It is meaningful to see the business community recognize the outstanding work taking place in our schools and districts,” Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey said. “This distinction highlights how public education in Contra Costa County is preparing students to be future ready with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities they need to thrive in college, careers and their communities.”

The six Contra Costa County school districts named to the 2026 California Honor Roll are: Acalanes Union High School District, Brentwood Union School District, Lafayette Elementary School District, Moraga Elementary School District, Orinda Union School District, and San Ramon Valley Unified School District.

The following 46 schools in the county were also honored: 

• Campolindo High School — Acalanes Union High School District
• Miramonte High School — Acalanes Union High School District
• Adams (J. Douglas) Middle School — Brentwood Union School District
• Edna Hill Middle School — Brentwood Union School District
• Garin Elementary School — Brentwood Union School District
• Isaac R. Montañez Elementary School — Brentwood Union School District
• R. Paul Krey Elementary School — Brentwood Union School District
• Ron Nunn Elementary School — Brentwood Union School District
• Discovery Bay Elementary School — Byron Union Elementary School District
• Burton Valley Elementary School — Lafayette Elementary School District
• Happy Valley Elementary School — Lafayette Elementary School District
• Lafayette Elementary School — Lafayette Elementary School District
• M. H. Stanley Middle School — Lafayette Elementary School District
• Springhill Elementary School — Lafayette Elementary School District
• Heritage High School — Liberty Union High School District
• Martinez Junior High School — Martinez Unified School District
• Donald L. Rheem Elementary School — Moraga Elementary School District
• Joaquin Moraga Intermediate School — Moraga Elementary School District
• College Park High School — Mt. Diablo Unified School District
• Hidden Valley Elementary School — Mt. Diablo Unified School District
• Monte Gardens Elementary School — Mt. Diablo Unified School District
• Pleasant Hill Middle School — Mt. Diablo Unified School District
• Rocketship Futuro Academy — Rocketship Public Schools
• Sequoia Middle School — Mt. Diablo Unified School District
• Walnut Acres Elementary School — Mt. Diablo Unified School District
• Del Rey Elementary School — Orinda Union School District
• Glorietta Elementary School — Orinda Union School District
• Orinda Intermediate School — Orinda Union School District
• Sleepy Hollow Elementary School — Orinda Union School District
• Wagner Ranch Elementary School — Orinda Union School District
• Alamo Elementary School — San Ramon Valley Unified School District
• Bollinger Canyon Elementary School — San Ramon Valley Unified School District
• Coyote Creek Elementary School — San Ramon Valley Unified School District
• Creekside Elementary School — San Ramon Valley Unified School District
• Diablo Vista Middle School — San Ramon Valley Unified School District
• Golden View Elementary School — San Ramon Valley Unified School District
• Hidden Hills Elementary School — San Ramon Valley Unified School District
• John Baldwin Elementary School — San Ramon Valley Unified School District
• Pine Valley Middle School — San Ramon Valley Unified School District
• Rancho Romero Elementary School — San Ramon Valley Unified School District
• Sycamore Valley Elementary School — San Ramon Valley Unified School District
• Tassajara Hills Elementary School — San Ramon Valley Unified School District
• Tice Creek School — Walnut Creek School District
• Middle College High School — West Contra Costa Unified School District
• Richmond College Preparatory School — West Contra Costa Unified School District
• West County Mandarin School — West Contra Costa Unified School District

Now in its 12th year, the California Honor Roll uses California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) results from 2024-26 to recognize schools and districts that are driving academic growth and improving student outcomes. The honor highlights educational communities that help students build the foundational skills needed for college, career, and life.

According to ERP, the Honor Roll identifies schools that are helping students build the foundational skills needed for college, career and life. ERP partners with business leaders and chambers of commerce throughout California to recognize schools and districts making measurable progress in student achievement. The Honor Roll is the only school recognition program presented in partnership with business leaders and based solely on student achievement outcomes.

To view the full list of California Honor Roll schools and districts, visit www.honorrollschools.com.

About Educational Results Partnership 

Educational Results Partnership (ERP) is a nonprofit organization that applies data science and predictive analytics to identify successful public education systems, practices, programs, and policies that deliver the best results for students. ERP has accumulated the nation’s largest database on student achievement from kindergarten into the labor market. In partnership with educators and employers, ERP charts the pathways that lead to academic success and living-wage jobs. ERP’s goal is to ensure that more students are equipped to enter the workforce with the skills today’s global economy demands. For more information visit: edresults.org.

About Campaign for Business and Education Excellence 

The Campaign for Business and Education Excellence (CBEE) aims to improve economic mobility for the next generation of learners by matching talent to jobs and career opportunities. Aligning academic achievements with job market needs, the campaign engages employers while helping learners pursue careers matched to their existing skills and abilities. Learners across the United States can discover how their education opens doors to immediate career opportunities. For more information visit: edcampaign.org.

About Contra Costa County Office of Education

One of 58 counties in California, Contra Costa County has the 11th largest public-school student population in the state (approximately 169,225 students). Officially established in 1932, CCCOE has a long history of providing direct services to some of the county’s most vulnerable students, including young people who are incarcerated, homeless, or in foster care, as well as students who have severe physical or emotional challenges.

CCCOE also provides support services to schools and school districts in Contra Costa County; services that can be handled most effectively and economically on a regional basis rather than by each of the county’s 286 schools or 18 school districts. These services range from budget approval and fiscal support to technology infrastructure, communication support, and high-level professional development opportunities for educators. CCCOE maintains a website at www.cocoschools.org.