A January 2026 Rooted in Service, Celebration, and Community at Aspire Public Schools and East Palo Alto Charter School

January 2026 marked a powerful beginning to the new year at Aspire Public Schools and East Palo Alto Charter School (EPACS) grounded in service, joy, and deep community connection.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Principal Kawi and the EPACS team for starting 2026 strong and for continuing to cultivate a school culture centered on belonging, professionalism, and collective care. Throughout the month, EPACS created meaningful opportunities for students, families, and staff to come together, strengthening the bonds that make this community so special.

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., EPACS proudly held its annual MLK Garden Work Day, bringing together students, families, staff, and community partners in a shared act of service. This year’s event was made possible through partnership with the Ivy and Pearls Foundation and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, whose presence and commitment reflected a shared dedication to service, legacy, and community uplift.

The event was led by Fresh Approach, formerly Collective Roots, an organization deeply committed to growing, sharing, and cooking nutritious food as a pathway to improved health, economic independence, and community connectedness in East Palo Alto. Notably, the EPACS garden was Fresh Approach’s very first flagship garden when the organization opened, making this day of service not only a tribute to Dr. King’s legacy, but also a celebration of a long standing partnership rooted in sustainability, education, and care for the land.

Beyond the garden, January was filled with moments of recognition and joy. EPACS hosted a middle school awards ceremony to celebrate student growth, leadership, and achievement, affirming the importance of honoring both academic progress and character. The month also included a community Bingo Night, bringing families together for laughter, connection, and shared celebration.

These moments reflect who EPACS is at its core. A community that values service, celebrates its students, and believes in coming together as one. Students, families, staff, and partners building something meaningful together. As we move forward into 2026, we do so inspired by the strength of this team, the legacy of our partnerships, and the collective spirit that continues to define EPACS.