IN THE NEWS: Hard work earns dancer a summer with Bolshoi ballet

Pt. Loma High freshman Margo van den Helder headed to summer with famed troupe in Moscow. The nine-week program through the Russian American Foundation and the Bolshoi Ballet Academy will allow Margo to train with the academy in New York City and Moscow and also study Russian language, history, arts and culture. Read more from the San Diego Union-Tribune»

Mt. Everest Students' Work on Display At San Diego Air and Space Museum

Antigone and Jeff with "astronaut."

On your next visit to the San Diego Air and Space Museum in Balboa Park, look for an exhibit segment entitled “The Space Race,” created by Mt. Everest Academy students Antigone Brickman and Jeff Meyers.

Antigone and Jeff's exhibit, part of the school's 20th Century Museum, looked at the competition between the USA and USSR beginning in the 1950s to explore space. Their display includes lifesize astronaut models and displays talking about the milestones in the race.

The 20th Century Museum was a school project that allowed students to study individual events and trends during the last century. Other featured topics included: the Russian Revolution, the Jazz Age, the Atomic Age, the Women’s Movement and the Internet.

Family, friends, teachers from other schools, local business representatives and San Diego State University professors were on hand to take a stroll down memory lane and judge students’ work. Students demonstrated their proficiency in displaying blended content from multiple subject areas.

Retirees Saluted by Superintendent, Board of Education

Photo Gallery

San Diego Unified's Class of 2011 Retirees were lauded for their hard work in educating generations of San Diegans and Americans during a special retirement ceremony June 16 at the Education Center.

Board of Education President Richard Barrera, Trustee Shelia Jackson and Superintendent Bill Kowba lead the ceremony, which was attended by about 100 of this year's retirees.

"I thank you for all your hard work in helping each generation take its place," said Barrera. "This is a team effort, whether you are teaching, providing support at a school or central facility, or here at the Ed Center."

Jackson said each would be missed but invited the retirees to return as volunteers.
"We still need your experience and skill, so I hope you will continue to help our kids," she said.

In his remarks, Kowba lauded the retirees for their legacy.

"We commend you for your service and the countless hours you have dedicated to making a difference in the lives of thousands of San Diego students," he said. "We also extend our appreciation to your family and friends for their support and, sometimes, sacrifices.

"You have our best wishes for good health, happiness and all the rewards you so richly deserve."

The ceremony, an annual tradition, was organized by the Human Resources and Communications department. It featured the Monroe Clark Middle School Advanced Band and catering by the Food Services Department. Sponsors of the event included California Coast and Mission Federal credit unions.

IN THE NEWS: Bird Rock students do battle over books

During their last few days of classes at Bird Rock Elementary School, all the third-, fourth- and fifth-grade students participated in the school’s first annual Battle of the Books competition. Read more from the La Jolla Light»

Joyner MicroSociety Named Magnet School of Distinction

Principal Gilbert Gutierrez and Dr. Robert G. Brooks, executive director, Magnet Schools of America

The school that creates a microcosm of society where each student plays a role in running the world has been named a Magnet School of Distinction.

Florence Griffith Joyner MicroSociety Magnet School was honored by the Magnet Schools of America at its 29th annual conference, held May 17 in Indiana.

The merit award recognizes the school’s commitment to high academic standards, curriculum innovation, successful diversity efforts, a specialized teaching staff, and parent and community involvement.

Principal Gilbert Gutierrez received the award from William Magnotta, president of Magnet Schools of America, and Dr. Robert G. Brooks, executive director.
For more information, contact Rebecca Penh, magnet resource teacher, at rpenh@sandi.net or (619) 640-4000.

IN THE NEWS: Volunteers earn PTA service award

Linda Dowley, Kathy Fackler and Sarah Schrier recently received the PTA Honorary Service Award for their “endless hours of volunteering for La Jolla High School,” according to PTA President Betsy Mueller. Read more from the La Jolla Light»

San Diego County Fair Honors Crawford MVAS Websites

Website projects by students at the School of Multimedia and Visual Arts at Crawford High have taken three awards at the San Diego County Fair.

The school's website, a profile on nearby Colina Park and a La Jolla store's website, all designed and maintained by the students, were recognized by judges at the county fair.

The top award at the fair, Best of Show, went to the MVAS School website, http://mvashigh.com with student Ranny Thorn as project leader. The site continues to be maintained by MVAS students. 
A Best of Class award went to the Stories of Colina Park, http://storiesofcolinapark.org/, a multi-year project where students profile the people of Colina Park through personal stories, recipes, art and the Urban Ag garden. This year’s website was created by project leader Diana Nguyen along with Towady Chea, Christina Saycocie, Jhanell Kirkaldy and Uriel Ayala.

Another Best of Class award went to La Jolla Lighting, http://lajollalightingonline.com/, a commercial website created and maintained by MVAS students for a local lighting store. This year the site was maintained and updated by Tan Nguyen.

For more information, please contact Gail Lake, ROP teacher, at glake@sandi.net.

IN THE NEWS: Test-Driving Summer Lunch Program

Now in its eighth year, the San Diego Unified School District’s summer-lunch program is serving free meals to children 18 and under in more than 60 sites throughout the city. What’s cooking at the Summer Fun Cafe? Read more from the San Diego Union-Tribune»

IN THE NEWS: For San Diego Schools, a Fear That Larger Classes Will Hinder Learning

Using state money and federal stimulus dollars, San Diego has held class size to 17 in kindergarten through second grade at its 30 poorest schools. “Small class size is the most important priority for us,” said Richard Barrera, the school board president. “These children are behind when they enter kindergarten. If they’re on grade level by third grade, most will be fine." Mr. Barrera believes that the rise in the district’s state test scores — to 56 percent proficient in English from 45 percent three years ago — is due, in part, to smaller classes.  Read more from The New York Times»

IN THE NEWS: San Diego Schools' Mr. Nice Guy

Everyone likes Bill Kowba. That seems to be one of the few things almost all in the fractured San Diego Unified school system agree on. The superintendent has a spotless reputation and a workhorse schedule. Read more from Voice of San Diego»

Budget crisis 2011-2012: Q&A with John Lee Evans

Board of Education Trustee explains the budget process, issues. Read more»

Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corp Performs Free at Lincoln High

The Drum Corps International World Champion Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corp of Concord, Calif., will be performing at Lincoln High School on Wednesday, June 29.
The event is free to district students, teachers, families and supporters. The performance is scheduled for at 8:30 p.m. in the school auditorium, 4777 Imperial Ave. (92113).

Drum Corp is considered the “major league” for marching bands -- much like musical theater on a football field.

Founded in 1957, The Blue Devils' objective is to develop personal character through challenging physical, emotional, mental, and social activities while promoting the values of dedication, hard work, and commitment to a team effort. More than 450 young people currently participate in The Blue Devils programs, and more than 8,000 young people, in 2,000 families, have been served by The Blue Devils organization since 1957.

For more information,visit www.dci.org or http://bluedevils.org/programs/a/2011/.

Madison High School Stadium Ready for Action

Madison High School’s graduates were the first to walk across the new turf field, and their families were the first to sit in the new bleachers on June 13 in the newly renovated stadium complex, which was completed earlier this month.

The $7.6 million, Prop. S-funded project involved installing a new synthetic turf football field and all-weather running track, new steel and aluminum grandstands, press box, ticket booths, restrooms and snack bars. Accessible parking and field lighting were also added.

Project partners included Mele Amantea Architects and Soltek Pacific Construction. The complex is ready for competition and will welcome Warhawk athletes and their fans in the fall.

For more project information, visit our school facilities projects page at http://fpcprojects.sandi.net. For media inquiries, contact Cynthia Reed-Porter at creed-porter@sandi.net or call 619-546-3378.

Fair Tests Auto Students Carburetor Rebuild Skills, Nets Scholarships

Winners Joey Torres and Natalie Mota

San Diego Unified students placed second and fourth in the Ohio Technical College – Edelbrock Carburetor Challenge at the San Diego County Fair, earning more than $5,000 in scholarships.

Four student teams from ROP automotive programs: three from Crawford High IDEA and one from Madison High School.
After a written test, teams raced against one another to tear down and build up an Edelbrock carburetor in the fastest time possible; four heats were held, with teams eliminated after each round. The top three teams will won $5,000, $4,000 and $3,000 scholarships per team member for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place, respectively. 

Two Crawford IDEA teams made it to the final heat. Joey Torres and Natalie Mota took second place honors and received a $4,000 scholarship to Ohio Technical College. The fourth place team, Andrew Watkins Blackshear and Mizraim Reyes, received a $1,500 scholarship to Ohio Technical College.

Teams were given Edelbrock carburetors in advance on which to practice. The competition focused on tearing down and building up the carburetor in the fastest time possible. Extra time was taken off depending on how well the team did on their OTC – Edelbrock Carburetor tests. Edelbrock is a San Diego Unified partner, helping with high school automotive technology programs.

For information, contact Greg Quirin, program specialist, at gquirin@sandi.net.

IN THE NEWS: Serra Teacher a Finalist for Presidential Award

A science teacher at Serra High School in Tierrasanta who has been a county teacher of the year is one of six state finalists for a prestigious presidential math and science teaching award. Ericka Senegar-Mitchell was nominated by state Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson yesterday. She is the only nominee from San Diego County.

• Read more from the San Diego Union-Tribune»
• News release from state Superintendent Tom Torlakson»
• More on Ericka Senegar-Mitchell»

Eight Students Receive Scholarships from California Masonic Foundation

Students from Hoover, SCPA, Garfield, Madison, Mira Mesa and Kearny high schools will have help with college expenses, thanks to the California Masonic Foundation's Investment in Success Scholarship Program.

Part of a $49,000 grant by the organization, the scholarships are an opportunity for students who may not appear to be college-bound or may not be recognized for academic success, but who possess the desire but who possess the desire and determination to overcome personal obstacles to achieve their goals.

Winners are: Beatriz Chavez and Josefina Garcia from Hoover High; Goni Dubnov from SCPA; Yadira Garcia, Garfield High; Cristian Hernandez and Zehn Wang, Madison; Yazmin Hernandez, Mira Mesa; and Jaleesa Johnson, Kearny School of International Business.

For more information on the program, contact the California Masonic Foundation at (415) 776-7000.

Budget Update: Board Scheduled to Adopt 2011-12 Budget on Tuesday

The Board of Education is scheduled to vote on the resolution to adopt the 2011-12 district budget and certify fiscal solvency for the subsequent two fiscal years at its June 28 meeting. The meeting is scheduled to start at 2 p.m. The 2011-12 budget includes $115 million in reductions and, by state law, must be adopted and submitted to the county Office of Education by July 1.

 

At its June 21 meeting, the board approved spending $1.5 million to restore VAPA resource teachers, as well as the music teachers at Crown Point Junior Music Academy and Oak Park Music Academy. The funding for these restorations comes from $1.3 million in energy savings the district will get from a new solar panel system next year, and about $300,000 it will save by having six area superintendents instead of eight.

The board also voted to restore certificated and classified jobs, as well as reduce K-3 class sizes if the district receives $36 million in additional revenue once a state budget is approved.

The meeting is open to the public and will be held at the Auditorium, Eugene Brucker Education Center, 4100 Normal St. (92103). It will also be televised on ITV Cable 16 and streamed live on the web.

Retired Teachers Give 10 Scholarships

Front row: Catherine Russell, Kieu Nguyen, Heather Bui, Rodgers BwayoBack row: Francesca Brown, Christina Luu,Tony Chau, Susana Jimenez, Ailin Zhao, Kendall Condon

The local chapter of the California Retired Teachers Association has awarded 10, $1,500 scholarships to students from eight schools in the San Diego Unified School District.

The students are: Francesca Brown, Clairemont High; Rogers Bwayo, Crawford CHAMPS; Kieu Nguyen, Hoover; Catherine Russell, La Jolla; Heather Bui, Mira Mesa; Ailin Zhao, Scripps Ranch; Christina Luu, Serra; Kendall Condon, University City; Susana Jimenez, Health Sciences High and Middle College Charter; and Tony Chau, Preuss-UCSD Charter.

High school seniors were judged on their academic achievement, school leadership, extra curricular activities, financial need, community and volunteer service, as well as work and home activities.

The California Retired Teachers Association is proud of its scholarship program that recognizes hard working, intelligent young people and it's a great pleasure for association members to support and contribute to the education of San Diego students.

For more information about the association, contact Vi Huprich at mailto:vihuprich@cox.net or http://area11.calrta.org/Div4.html.

For more district news, subscribe to the Superintendent's Friday Notes.

Panasonic "School Change Award" goes to Kearny School of International Business

In 1999, the Panasonic Corporation of North America created the School Change Award to recognize schools that rose from being underperforming to exemplary.

Kearny High School of International Business was one of only six winners in the country to receive the Twelfth Annual Panasonic National School Change Awards this year. It is the only award of its type in the nation and includes a cash grant and donation of Panasonic products totaling more than $5,000.

A special ceremony was held June 2 on the Kearny campus to celebrate this outstanding achievement.

For more information, contact Erica Heinzman, Math/AVID/English teacher, at eheinzman@sandi.net or (858) 496-8370, ext. 4415

View more photos from the event.

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Prop. S Update: Access and Safety Improvements, Other Projects Under Way at Sessions Elementary

A new parking lot and student pick-up and drop-off zone are being constructed in order to improve traffic and parking, and to ensure safer conditions at the school. Read more at Prop. S News»

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Field Day Brings Fun for Visually Impaired Students

Visually impaired students from around the county enjoyed a wide variety of activities during the recent 29th annual County Wide Field Day for Students with Visual Impairments.

The approximately 120 students in attendance and their families made crafts, played games, participated in field events, had a barbecue lunch and had the opportunity to swim at the South Clairemont Recreation Center and Pool during the event on May 20.

At Field Day, students hang out with old friends and make new ones. The event also gives teachers and family members a chance to connect.

Thanks to the North Park Lions Club, San Diego Kite Club, Puppy Raisers with the Guide Dogs for the Blind and Girl Scout Troop 1765 for donating time and services.

For more information, contact Leia Morgan at lhook@sandi.net.

For more district news, subscribe to the Superintendent's Friday Notes.

Restaurant Group Honors Garfield Culinary Student

Juan Ramos, a culinary arts student at Garfield High School, has been named Student of the Year by the San Diego chapter of the California Restaurant Association.

In making the award, the association lauded Ramos for his can-do attitude.

"Juan knows the meaning of work.  Rarely has there been a student with such a strong work ethic.  He never quits until the job is done.  He does not let ego get in the way of doing whatever job needs to be done, no matter how menial."
Ramos has graduated from Garfield and is now taking classes at San Diego City College. His future includes more culinary training.

This is the first time the association has presented a Student of the Year award. It goes to a student who shows  leadership, exemplary citizenship,  excels in their class and plans to work in the hospitality industry.

The California Restaurant Association is a major supporter of San Diego Unified's College, Career and Technical Education (CCTE) programs, with many of its members providing internships, serving as mentors and advisors to on-campus programs, and financial support for students and programs. San Diego Unified School District appreciates the support that the California Restaurant Association and its members give to our students and staff.

For more information, please contact Angela Croce, CCTE program specialist, at (858) 503-1750 or acroce@sandi.net.

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IN THE NEWS: Hoover Teacher Honored by National Football League

Former San Diego Chargers and Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Burt Grossman has been honored as the 2011 NFL Teacher of the Year, an award that recognizes former NFL players who have become teachers.

Grossman, 44, who teaches at Hoover High in San Diego, was chosen by a panel of educators and civic leaders that includes NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and former Commissioner Paul Tagliabue and will receive a $5,000 award. The NFL also will present a $5,000 grant to Hoover High School.

Read more

• Official NFL announcement»
• San Diego Union-Tribune»

$50 Million Savings Eyed as New Solar Energy Projects Begin Work

San Diego Unified is on a pace to save as much as $50 million through expansion of its solar energy program. District leaders, local dignitaries and representatives of AMSolar Corporation broke ground on a solar carport system recently at Clairemont High School, as AMSolar begins its installation of 23,000 solar panels on rooftops and carports around the district.

When completed, approximately 30 percent of the district's total energy usage will be offset by solar. These combined projects have the potential to save as much as $50 million in avoided costs to the district over the 20-year life of the system.

The sites receiving new solar systems are: Baker, Benchley/Weinberger, Boone, Edison, Emerson, Encanto, Freese, Gage, Johnson, Sherman and Valencia Park elementary schools; Kearny, Lincoln, Madison, Mission Bay, Morse, Scripps Ranch and University City high schools, along with the Revere Center administrative site.

AMSolar is one of two companies that will be installing solar systems throughout the district. Last fall, the Board of Education approved two new solar programs that will create 9.4 megawatts (MW) of solar power at 49 additional schools and three administrative sites. As with the current system, the district will purchase the solar power generated from these sites directly from the service providers at a discounted rate compared to the SDG&E rate, with no taxpayer investment.

Since 2003, the district has utilized roof-top solar systems at 28 district schools and administrative sites to convert the sun's energy into electricity and reduce overall energy costs. The two new programs will more than triple the district's solar capacity from 4.17 MW on 28 sites to 13.5 MW on 80 sites.

For more information, visit the district website at www.sandi.net/energy or contact Janet Whited, recycling specialist, at (858) 637-6268 or jwhited@sandi.net.

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IN THE NEWS: Is San Diego Unified 'Failing' Its Students? Nope.

Next year, San Diego voters will be asked to consider an initiative to dramatically overhaul the governance structure of the San Diego Unified School District. The proposal would change the way school board members are elected and create four new appointed seats on the school board. Read more from the Voice of San Diego»

Mission Bay High Students Wrap Up Mossy Toyota Internships

Students at Mossy Toyota

The staff member who recently helped with your Toyota service, parts, rental car or administrative needs at Mossy Toyota in Pacific Beach might have been a student at nearby Mission Bay High School.

Four students from the bayside campus have finished up semester-long internships in the service, parts, administrative and rental car departments, part of the school's internships through the College, Career and Technical Education (CCTE) program.

"It was a great experience working with the students," said Dale Snow, Mossy Toyota's fixed operations director. "They were all very enthusiastic.  My staff enjoyed the interaction and showing them the insides of our business."

San Diego Unified's College, Career and Technical Education program's internships are just one of the options available to high school students. The internships, which are after the school day, allow students to work with local businesses in a variety of capacities. They gain valuable experience and get a chance to refine their career goals in a real business.

For more information on the Mission Bay High School program, contact teacher David West at dwest@sandi.net. If you'd like to have your business participate in the internship program, call Shawn Loescher, director, College, Career and Technical Education, at (858) 503-1754.

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IN THE NEWS: San Diego Students Will Have Additional Requirements For High School Diploma

SAN DIEGO - The San Diego Unified School District Board of Education voted Tuesday to change high school graduation requirements to include career readiness courses beginning with freshman entering high school during the 2012-2013 academic year. Read more from San Diego 6»

Celgene Donation, SD High SciTech Initiative Helps Students Around County

International biopharmaceutical company Celgene Corporation teamed up with students from SciTech School at San Diego High to benefit science students all over San Diego County.

With the donation of $5,000 and the skill of the SciTech students, more than 300 transformation and protein purification lab kits were produced by the students during the school year. They'll be used by more than 9,000 students county-wide in the 2011-12 school year.

All aspects of kit production were managed by the students, from culturing bacteria to distribution -- managing teacher requests over a secure online ordering system.

For more information, contact teacher Sara Dozier, at sdozier@sandi.net.

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IN THE NEWS: Serving Hungry Kids through the Summer

Every child deserves a carefree summer vacation, but for many kids, summer break means an end to the free and reduced price school meals they depend on during the school year. Thankfully, in many communities across the nation, school nutrition programs are stepping up to make sure children don’t go hungry this summer. Read more from Tray Talk»

Conductor Jung-Ho Pak Visits With String Players at Crown Point

Jung-Ho Pak at Crown Point.

Former San Diego Symphony conductor Jung-Ho Pak recently visited with string players in grades 3-5 at the Crown Point Junior Music Academy in Pacific Beach.

Pak demonstrated examples of how the conductor and musician communicate during a performance. According to Pak, the orchestra and music send emotions to the audience, inviting the listeners to be part of the experience.

For more information, contact Barbara Boone, principal, at (858) 273-9830.

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Point Loma, Lincoln Student Journalists Honored

Online newspapers produced by student journalists at Pt. Loma and Lincoln high schools have been recognized by the Voice of San Diego, the pioneering local online news service.

Pt. Loma High's pointernews.com was honored as Best Website by the organization. Voiceofsandiego.org presented the school's journalism program with a $500 grant. Lincoln High's voicesoflincoln.com received honorable mention.

Voice of San Diego's first Excellence in High School Journalism awards were presented in five categories: Best News Story, Best Editorial, Best Feature, Best Photo or Video, and Best Website. Each student winner receives a $500 scholarship to college, and the school winning the best website receives $500 for their journalism program.

"With 100 entries representing 14 schools in San Diego County, the contest was highly competitive," said Camille Gustafson of Voice of San Diego. "The contest celebrates excellence in student news and promotes online platforms for high school journalism. Moving student newspapers online brings the advantages of lower cost, more frequency and relevance, and offers a learning environment closer to the real world."

For more information on the contest, visit Voice of San Diego at www.voiceofsandiego.org.

Digital news sites are now online at Clairemont, Kearny, Lincoln, Mission Bay, Pt. Loma and Serra high schools. These schools have news sites similar to professional publications such as Voice of San Diego and the San Diego Union-Tribune. A feed of articles from these news sites is available on the San Diego Unified website; from the main page, www.sandi.net, look for the "News" button and select "Student Media."

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Schools Salute Volunteers, Partners as Integral to Education

District leaders thank Chuck Wootton for his dedicated volunteerism at Loma Portal Elementary

The district’s most dedicated volunteers and partners in education from local business and community groups were honored at the End-Of-Year Partner/Volunteer Awards Ceremony, presented by the Community Relations Department on May 25, at the Harold Ballard Parent Center.

More than 150 attendees were on hand for the festivities. Sponsored by California Coast Credit Union, the event offered an opportunity for the district to thank those who continue to put kids and their neighborhood schools first – from retired teachers to Naval officers and local retail stores. 

2011 Volunteer of the Year Awardees include: Trudy Lederer (Bird Rock Elementary), Charles “Chuck” Wootton (Loma Portal Elementary), Shirley Altieri (Washington Elementary), Maria Gibson (Millennial Tech Middle) and Becky Breedlove (Crawford CHAMPS High).

2011 Partners of the Year include the Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Center-Pacific (Cabrillo Elementary), the San Diego Bar Association Children at Risk Committee (Porter Elementary), SeaWorld San Diego and Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (Pacific Beach Middle), the National Association of Women in Construction San Diego Chapter (Construction Tech Academy at Kearny High), and Pfizer Inc. (district-wide). Ten-year, 20-year and 25-year partners across the district were also honored.

View the End-of-Year Partner/Volunteer Awards Ceremony program for volunteer bios and a complete list of honorees.

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Freese Readers Top 120 Million Words, Breaking 2009-10 Record

Supt. Kowba talks with a student.

When students at Freese Elementary Arts and Culture Magnet read 100 million words during the 2009-10 school year, the community may have thought it was a big deal.

Well, they smashed that record in 2010-11, reading 120 million words.

To recognize their students' achievement, Freese recently held a celebration, with trophies for top readers and students from each class parading through the auditorium. Superintendent Bill Kowba was on hand, praising students for the importance of their accomplishments.

For more information, contact Alma Hills, principal, at (619) 479-2727 or ahills@sandi.net.


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Hancock Elementary Science Teacher Sets Sites on Space

Science class at Hancock Elementary School.

She's not going into space, but Kerri Felcyn, Science Resource Teacher for Hancock Elementary School in Tierrasanta, will be getting some of the training that astronauts receive.
Felcyn is heading to Huntsville, Ala.,and the U.S. Space and Rocket Center for a week at the Honeywell Educators @ Space Academy.

The program includes astronaut-style training and simulations, as well as study of space science and space exploration. A program aimed at teachers, she'll be able to bring back lessons on the space program, math and science that will help her students along a path that might put them in space.

Sponsorship from Honeywell includes airfare to and from Huntsville, lodging and meals while in Huntsville, and program materials.  This week-long program offers approximately 45 hours of intensive classroom and laboratory training.

For more information, visit the Honeywell Educators @ Space Academy website.

Prop. S Update: Kearny CTA Students Present Project Designs

Two groups of 11th-grade students from Kearny’s Construction Tech Academy recently presented project design ideas for one of the school’s Prop. S projects to the Prop. S Independent Citizens’ Oversight Committee (ICOC). Read more»

Alert Officer Connects On-Campus Taggers to Off-Campus Vandalism

School Board Member Shelia Jackson, left, Officer Ivan Picazo, and Chief Don Braun.

Office Ivan Picazo of the San Diego Unified School District Police Department has been recognized by San Diego County Crimestoppers for his work in helping solve a vandalism spree in Ocean Beach.

The case involved suspects etching windows in the beach community, with damages exceeding $100,000.
Officer Picazo, who is assigned to Mission Bay High School, connected the incidents with taggers at the school, where arrests had been made. Using his excellent relationship with students, Picazo identified the primary suspect, who is now facing an 18-year jail term.

By his alert actions, Officer Picazo showed how school policing can help the community at large.

On hand at the Crimestoppers "Enough is Enough" luncheon on May 26 were San Diego Unified Board of Education Member Shelia Jackson, and SDUSD Police Chief Don Braun. Congratulations to Officer Ivan Picazo for a job well done!


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Save the Date: New ERAA Back to School Conference Set for Aug. 20

The annual New ERAA Back to School Conference, Rally for Education and Festival, will be held Saturday, August 20, at Lincoln High School. Registration begins at 7 a.m., general assembly at 8:30 a.m.; Rally for Education begins at 1 p.m.

The free, one-day event includes workshops for parents and students grades K-12, a Rally for Education and a festival featuring nearly 70 exhibitors who will provide relevant information and resources for New ERAA attendees. During the festival, every child will receive a backpack/backsack filled with educational supplies.

New ERAA, which stands for Everybody Recommitting to Academic Achievement, was founded by Pazzaz Inc. and the Center for Parent Involvement in Education.
Look for more information on the Pazzaz website at www.pazzaz.org.



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University City High Artists Celebrate Accomplishments

ArtsTECH student shows off his work.

Art, videos, monologues and a fashion show were the highlights as the fifth graduating class of the ArtsTECH Academy at University City High recently showed off their works.

The innovative program provides students with a visual and performing-arts focus, incorporating computer literacy and technology skills.

The academy opened in 2004 and is funded through a California Partnership Academy grant. Business and community partners include Cox Media, the San Diego Museum of Art, the Visual Arts Foundation, Groovy Like A Movie, Mesa Community College.

For more information, please contact the Office of College, Career and Technical Education at (858) 503-1738.

IN THE NEWS: Long, Unusual Road for Crawford IDEA Valedictorian

Its been a long and unlikely road to Stanford University for the Crawford IDEA 2011 valedictorian. See more from KPBS-FM: http://www.kpbs.org/news/2011/jun/13/long-and-unlikely-road-stanford/

Clairemont High Students Wrap Up Bus Maintenance Internship

Fleet maintenance staff and students celebrate a job well done.

Keeping a bus fleet up and running is a big job and four Clairemont High students just wrapped up a semester as interns in San Diego Unified's Transportation Fleet Maintenance Department.

The program, now in its fourth year, takes students through tasks such as engine diagnostics, preventative maintenance, upholstery repair, glass replacement and tire repair.

Students Samuel Ramirez, Tanner Camerena, Geovany Lopez, and Simon Rodriguez spent the semester at the districts Transportation Facility in Kearny Mesa, in addition to taking classes Clairemont. If their career path goes in the direction of fleet maintenance, they can use the experience on their resume.

For additional information, please contact Pablo Rios, fleet supervisor at (858) 496-8463 or prios@sandi.net.

Construction Under Way On Emergency Operations Center

Still a construction zone at the Emergency Operations Center expansion.

Construction is under way on School Police's Emergency Operations Center expansion, with the September opening on track.

Funded through a $400,000 homeland security grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency, the new facility will serve as an emergency dispatch center, centralizing public safety communications during a state of emergency.

The new EOC is be a self-contained building, equipped with a bathroom and sleeping facilities to house key officials during an emergency. The building will include one large conference room with air conditioning and new technology, as well as two additional private interview rooms.

Once construction is complete, parking will be restored and restriped, resulting in a dozen new open parking spaces for visitors.

Rooms may be used by other departments for meetings, training, conferences, etc. School Police Services will regulate use of the space when not in use for public safety matters. To request a room or for more information, contact School Police Services at (619) 725-7088.


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Free Lunch for Kids Begins June 21; Kickoff Barbecue June 22

Enjoying the free barbecue. Watch video from last year's kickoff»

The annual free summer lunch for kids program for kids is back.

The Summer Fun Café program begins June 21 in parks, schools and other locations (see locations). The program offers free lunches and snacks to children age 18 and under in low-income neighborhoods.

The program kicks off on Wednesday, June 22, a free community barbecue at the Skyline Hills Recreation Center, 8285 Skyline Drive (92114). In addition to great barbecue, it will feature a nutrition decathlon, prizes, food giveaways by local food banks, the San Diego Padres’ Friar and Pad Squad, as well as information from community social service and support programs.

The Summer Fun Café is sponsored by the San Diego Unified School District and the City of San Diego Park and Recreation Department through a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Summer Food Service Program.

For program details go to Summer Fun Café website. For more information contact Norma Johnson at njohnson4@sandi.net.


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IN THE NEWS: Four Students Take Different Paths to Graduation

Profiles of four students who each took different paths to high school graduation, from the San Diego Union-Tribune: http://m.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/jun/11/kevin-groarke-online-school/

Kearny Construction Tech Receives Linked Learning Certification

Students at Stanley E. Foster Construction Tech Academy (CTA) at Kearny celebrated achieving their Linked Learning Certification from ConnectEd, the California Center for College and Career.

At the ceremony, Superintendent Bill Kowba was joined by ConnectEd president Gary Hoachlander. The award notes that the school connects strong academics with real-world experience in a wide range of fields, such as construction, architecture and engineering.

Pathways that link learning with student interests and job preparation lead to higher graduation rates, increased college enrollments, and higher earning potential.

Contact Construction Tech Academy Principal Laura Bellofatto at lbellofatto@sandi.net or (858) 496-8370, ext. 2400.


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Taft Sweet Tart Scientists Score Savings Bonds in eCYPERMISSION

Award-winning scientists and their teacher from Taft Middle School.

A study of the best way to keep food fresh has scored $500 saving bonds for four sixth-grade scientists at Taft Middle School.

The researchers, members of Kristina Anderson's class at the Mission Village school, were California's second-place winners in the eCYPERMISSION program, a web-based science, technology, engineering and math competition for grades 6-9.

Sixth graders Samantha Munz, Callie Sehlhorst, Erin Maule and Maura Smith -- The Sweet Tarts -- studied the best storage method to keep food freshest the longest. Their findings resulted in discovering that bags with zipper closing worked best; less effective were plastic containers, sandwich fold-over bags and exposed food on a plate.

"Taft Middle School is proud of the efforts that these four students made in the competition," said Mike George, principal. "Wed look forward to all of them continuing their love for scientific research in high school and college."

For more information, contact George at (858) 496-8245 or mgeorge@sandi.net.


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Message from Supt. Kowba

Dear Colleagues, Parents, Students, and Community Members,

Monday, June 13, marks the last day of instruction for the traditional school year. Before many of our staff and students leave for summer break, I want to extend my deepest gratitude for everyone’s hard work and dedication during a year of intensified cluster development, sobering budget cuts and collaborative sacrifices. You have stayed the course and continued to make our students the top priority. The wonderful teaming of staff, students, and parents is reflected in a solid trend of academic excellence.

Congratulations to the graduating Class of 2011, their parents and families. More than 7,000 seniors from the district’s 31 high schools will be attending their commencement ceremonies today through Monday. We are proud of your achievements and wish you the very best in all future endeavors.

I also want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the administrators, certificated staff and classified employees who are retiring or leaving the district. Thank you for your countless years of service, loyalty and commitment to public education. We will miss your expertise and experience and wish you well.

For those who will open our classrooms at the start of the new school year, we appreciate your continued focus on excellence and dedication to a job well done. Remember, the first day of school for students is Tuesday, September 6.

Again, thank you for all that you do for our students.

Sincerely,

Bill Kowba

IN THE NEWS: Project Ujima Highlighted

Program is built upon the shared sense of responsibility all of us have for the educational success of African American children in the San Diego Unified School District. Read more from Voice and Viewpoint»<http://sdvoice.info/san-diego-unified-school-district-parent-outreach-and-engagement-departmen-p1062-93.htm>

IN THE NEWS: Camp Palomar Set to Close

As budget cuts force an end to a 60-year program, students from Chollas/Mead, Grant and Taft schools reflect on their visits. Watch story from Fox 5 San Diego»<http://www.fox5sandiego.com/news/kswb-camp-palomar-closing,0,7178084.story?track=rss>

MTM Students Celebrated for Being Test-Ready for CSTs

Congratulations to all students at Millennial Tech Middle School for staying focused and doing their best on California Standards Testing. For extra encouragement, MTM teachers awarded prize tickets to students for arriving to class on time, attending school every day during testing and practicing successful test-taking strategies learned all year.

To celebrate their success and to motivate and inspire them to keep up the great job, three separate grade-level assemblies were held with prize giveaways to recognize the students’ hard work. The more tickets earned, the better chance students had to win gifts and prizes totaling more than $1,000, generously donated by parents, staff and community supporters. Three lucky students held the winning tickets for autographed NFL footballs, signed by two-time, Super Bowl champ and MVP, Howard Griffith, #29 of the Denver Broncos. After school reopens in the fall, MTM will hold another motivational rally to celebrate and recognize individual students for CST results.

For more information, contact Principal Helen Griffith at hgriffith@sandi.net or (619) 527-6933.

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Balboa Park Volunteer Profile Earns Muir Website Honors

A website created by students at John Muir School has received a Platinum Award in the Local Leaders category from the International Schools Cyberfair.

Students wrote about an all-school trip they took in January to the park, going behind-the-scenes at several museums, including the Natural History Museum, Air and Space Museum and the San Diego Zoo.

"The fact that people sacrifice their time to make sure that the museums are in top shape is truly inspiring,” said student Jonathon, grade 8.

Meanwhile, student Steven, grade 7, is headed to the San Diego Automotive Museum.

“I like everything about cars, so I would volunteer at the museum to help repair and restore them,” he said.

International Schools CyberFair, sponsored by the Global SchoolNet Foundation, encourages youth to connect the knowledge they learn in school to real-world applications. Students are challenged to publish original research projects that focus on how the positive actions and contributions of their local citizens have the power to improve, preserve and unite their community. Touted as the largest international cyber event for schools, the annual contest involves more than two million students from 45,500 schools in 115 countries.

This is the seventh year that Muir School has been part of the competition.

For more information, contact Anne Lambert, teacher librarian, at (858) 268-1954 or muirlib@gmail.com.

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Counseling Chief is Cal-SOAP Visionary Award Winner

Congratulations to Melissa Janak, director, Counseling and Guidance/Placement and Appeal, for being awarded the California Student Opportunity and Access Program (Cal-SOAP) Visionary Award in May.

The award recognizes an individual in a post-secondary institution, K-12, or in the community who has demonstrated a commitment to the mission and goals of Cal-SOAP and has gone above and beyond to ensure that students succeed academically to pursue their college dreams.

Since joining the district in 1986, Janak has served as a counselor, head counselor and counseling program manager. She has been a member of the Cal-SOAP Executive Board since 2005 and served as its chair in 2009 and 2010. She is a current member of the College Board-SAT Advisory Committee and is involved with the National Office for School Counselor Advocacy—Urban School Counselor Initiative. She helped develop and coordinate new counseling initiatives for the district and is currently a member of the GEAR UP leadership team, which oversees a federal college readiness program for more than 7,000 district students and brings in more than $3 million annually for students at some of our neediest high schools.

Melissa Janak is known as a great collaborator who works tirelessly to bring programs and activities to students and has repeatedly demonstrated her commitment to students, their college dreams, their future careers and the empowerment of their parents. San Diego Unified congratulates her on this tremendous achievement.


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Laura Bush Foundation for America’s Libraries Gives $5K to Cabrillo School

Cabrillo Elementary has been awarded $5,000 from The Laura Bush Foundation for America’s Libraries to expand, update and diversify its library collection.

Cabrillo is one of 241 school libraries being awarded grants for 2011.

"A big thanks to our library assistant, Jose de la Luz," said Nestor Suarez, principal. "He applied for the grant and Cabrillo Elementary has been selected to receive the maximum amount."

The new books will supplement Cabrillo's selections, which are enjoyed daily by students at the Pt. Loma neighborhood.

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IN THE NEWS: SD High School of Business Wants Your Vote

BigLots! contest could win school $20,000; vote for video online. Donations to school can also be made at stores. Read more from KNSD-TV»

• Watch video.

PTA Celebrates 75 Years at Lindbergh Schweitzer Elementary

PTA members Mary Morgan and Rita Brandt hold the California Ninth District Legacy Award Certificate

Back in 1935, a new home cost $3,925 and a gallon of gas was 10 cents. A new Studebaker automobile would set you back $665 and a ladies swimsuit was $6.95.

And in San Diego, a new school called Sunshine School was opening to help disabled students. A PTA was formed at that school, then located on 35th Street.

Fast forward to 2011, what was Sunshine School is now the legacy of Lindbergh-Schweitzer Elementary School in Clairemont, and the PTA is still active and involved in helping kids and their school.

To honor this legacy, the Ninth District PTA recently recognized the school, its parents and community with a Legacy Award Certificate.

For additional information contact Julie Harris, Media Production Assistant at Lindbergh Schweitzer Elementary School, (858) 496-8400, jharris2@sandi.net.

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Midway's 'Operation Frequent Wind' Blows to SD High Int'l Studies and Met

Students interact with live broadcast from USS Midway.

The USS Midway, historic retired aircraft carrier now a museum in San Diego Bay, has received help from two schools as it develops a new, interactive exhibit.

Students from the San Diego Met High School at Mesa College and the School of International Studies at the San Diego High Educational Complex have experienced the new video conference exhibit, dubbed "Operation Frequent Wind."

The exhibit will bring a big part of the Midway's history to classrooms. The 50-minute interactive broadcast allows students to experience, through vintage photos and video clips, the evacuation of Saigon, April 29-30, 1975. The exhibit also discusses happenings after this date, the migration of more than 700,000 Vietnamese, Cambodians and Laotians to the United States from 1974-78.

Thanks to the students testing the program, it's on track to launch statewide in January.

For more information on the new program, contact Sara Hanscom, Education Director of the USS Midway Museum, at shanscom@MIDWAY.ORG.

For further information, please contact Jill Badger at (619) 388-2296 or jbadger@sandi.net.

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IN THE NEWS: SD Unified Helps Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual Teens Avoid Compromising Health

According to a national study, "San Diego is one of four areas included in the survey that already train staff on how to address issues faced by sexual minority students." The study author "hoped the data would spur more school districts to take similar action. Read more from KPBS»<http://www.kpbs.org/news/2011/jun/06/gay-lesbian-bisexual-teens-more-likely-compromise-/>

Spirit Week Celebrates Testing Success at Adams Elementary

Principal Derek Murchison and a student on Crazy Hair Day.

After several days of hard work and concentration on the recent California Standards Tests, the Student Council at Adams Elementary School proclaimed it to be Spirit Week.

"We showed a lot of school spirit and we had a bunch of fun!" said Principal Derek Murchison.

Activities included Crazy Hair Day, Mixed Match Day (different socks, shoes, etc.) and Twin Day, where students paired up and dressed alike.

Murchison got into the spirit on Crazy Hair Day, sporting the ultimate "fro" as did another student.

For more information on Adams Elementary, contact Murchison at (619) 284-1158 or dmurchison@sandi.net.

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Salsa In Garden Leads to Dance Floor at Encanto

Encanto Elementary School has undertaken a three-year project that will help the school and the community. Called Connecting Cultures Using Common Causes, the program has ambitious goals. Go to slideshow»

A new organic salsa garden will be linked to a new music and dance program, which the school is planning once the ingredients for the salsa have grown and been prepared. A recipe book is planned, as are other activities that cross cultures and incorporate art into gardening, science, nutrition, language arts and math.

Next school year, plans are to register the school's pond and garden as wildlife corridors, with the goal of attracting migrating and native species of plants and animals. The school will also encourage the community to develop its own wildlife habitats in yards and open spaces. Finally, they will ask National Geographic and Google to show these linked open spaces on maps.

Here's a slide show of the school meeting the first goal, creating the garden.
For more information, contact Debra Baker, principal, at (619) 264-3191 or dbaker@sandi.net

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Cadets Head to Lake Arrowhead for Summer Camp

JROTC cadets from high schools all over the San Diego Unified School District will be heading to Lake Arrowhead the week after school ends for the annual Leadership Camp.

Sponsored by the U.S. Army Cadet Command, the trip away from home allows new student leaders to experience their new role, while all participants learn skills such as map-compass orientation, wildlife and habitat sciences, environmental safety and wilderness safety.

They'll also have time for fun activities such as horseback riding, archery, canoeing, rappelling, mountain biking and obstacle courses.

JROTC teachers at individual schools picked cadets that had excelled throughout the year in academics, physical fitness and leadership potential. Most importantly, this outward-bound camp experience rewards students for their personal achievements and gives them an opportunity to build new friendships.

For more information, please contact LTC David Guzman, Program Manager JROTC Military Sciences, at (858) 496-8203 or dguzman1@sandi.net.

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Parent Empowerment Summit Set for June 25

Parents, staff and community members are invited to discuss education issues at a community meeting from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 25.

The "Parent Empowerment Summit" is being presented by "Voice For Our Kids and Parents for Quality Education." Former California state Sen. Gloria Romero (D-Los Angeles) is keynote speaker.

Other speakers include: Cindy Marten, principal, Central Elementary School; Dr. Alberto Ochoa, chairperson, Superintendent's Latino Advisory Committee; and Assembly members Nathan Fletcher and Marty Block.

Cost of the event is $10, which includes lunch and a free raffle. The first 100 to register at www.parentsforqualityed.org will receive a copy of the movie "Waiting for Superman."

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Bay Park Students in Visually Impaired Program Delight the Audience

Students in Bay Park Elementary's Visually Impaired program are featured in a video of the school's annual variety show. Under the direction of teacher Wendy Hardy, the students delighted the audience with their performance of Waving Flags.
Part of the district's Special Education division, the Program for Students with Visual Impairments serves a wide variety of students from infancy through age 22. It is the goal of the program to support district curriculum and enable all students with visual impairments to attain their fullest potential.

Watch the video.

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Crowds, Cans, Careers at CCTE Showcase

Read more from the San Diego Union-Tribune» Photo slideshow»

Culinary arts students providing hors d'oeuvres, JROTC performing precision drills, robots doing what they're programmed to do and SpongeBob SquarePants made from 2,868 cans were just a few things going on at this year's College, Career and Technical Education Showcase.

With 54 presentations from 26 schools, the showcase displayed the best of the projects completed this year as students prepare in practical ways for life after high school.

Award winners included:

• Coolest Project: Construction Tech Academy at Kearny won the Coolest Project award by building a replica of SpongeBob SquarePants out of 2,868 cans of beans, fruit and other foods. The students participate in CANstruction, an annual community project where local artists and community group build artwork out of cans, then donate the food to local food banks.
  
• Showcase Rookie award was won by students from Construction Tech Academy at the Kearny High Educational Complex for their Zoomanity Exhibit and Interpretive Design.  The project was a partnership with the San Diego Zoo. Students interviewed zoologists, architects and construction workers at the zoo to  profile career paths and find out how each species' needs determines the careers' work.
  
• Showcase Veteran Award went to "Urban Ag: Bridging the Divide Between the Farm and Your Table," from Crawford MVAS. The students studied how to convert usable urban land into productive and beautiful food sources, as well as the benefits of growing local.
  
• Showcase Open Award, "A Biotechnology Business in the Classroom," from SciTech at San Diego High. As interns, student worked with lab kit providers to develop a new kit for science classes that costs one-tenth as much as current kits, which are used by 20,000 students around the county.

The RV from the popular PBS series RoadTrip Nation also visited, holding a contest to create videos on individuals' passions, dreams, aspirations and hopes for the future. The winners for the Rookie RoadTrip Nation category were students from Lincoln High School who interviewed Battalion Chief, Bob Steadman. In the Veteran Roadtrip Nation category, winners Hoover High School students for their interview with an Ichiban Restaurant waitress, Michiyo Seaman.

The event was produced by the ROP Marketing, Meetings and Special Events students at San Diego High School of International Studies.  They worked on everything from venue selection to rentals to contracting with other ROP courses in the district to produce the program and awards banners/trophies.  The district’s culinary programs from Garfield and Morse high schools served hors d’oeuvres throughout the event.

For more information, please contact Ralph West, CCTE Program Manager Instructional and Community Development, at (858) 503-1747 or rwest1@sandi.net.

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Globalization and Education Examined by Lincoln Social Justice 10th Graders

Students from Lincoln Center for Social Justice at the University of San Diego.

The effects of globalization on education were studied by 20 students from Lincoln High's Center for Social Justice at a recent University of San Diego conference.

The 10th graders attended the SOLES Action Research Conference to find out the latest research on whether communities and the subjects taught to students are responding to the global world market. Participatory action research was examined with the help of scholars, graduate students and other high school students.

The visit, thanks to a partnership with the AJA Project, allowed the students to talk with some of the top experts in this area. They were also invited to make a presentation at next year's conference.

For more information, contact Ana Shapiro, principal, Lincoln High School of Social Justice, at (619) 266-5555.

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County Recognition for California Distinguished Schools

2011 California Distinguished School award winners Albert Einstein Academy Middle School, Mira Mesa High School, Preuss School UCSD and San Diego High School of International Studies were honored at the County Office of Education’s annual recognition ceremony last week.

The California Distinguished School Award identifies and honors those schools that have demonstrated educational excellence for all students and progress in narrowing the achievement gap. Schools are invited by the California Department of Education to apply for Distinguished School honors by meeting a variety of eligibility criteria, including designated federal and state accountability measures based on Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP), and the Academic Performance Index (API) requirements. Elementary and secondary (middle and high) schools are recognized during alternate years. For the 2011 cycle, eligible middle and high schools were invited to participate. San Diego Unified is proud to recognize all four schools for this outstanding accomplishment in student achievement.  See the complete list of 2011 California Distinguished Schools.

County Superintendent of Schools Randall E. Ward, Ed.D. (left) presented the awards.

Albert Einstein Middle School

Mira Mesa High School

Preuss School UCSD

San Diego High School of International Studies

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Lindbergh Schweitzer Honors Memory of Chelsea King with Invitational Mile Run

Students line up for the Chelsea King Invitational Mile.

Lindbergh Schweitzer Service Learning Magnet School was host to 194 students from around the county who came to compete in six races in the Second Annual Chelsea King Invitational Mile on May 26.

Students in grades 3-6 qualify to gain entry to their races, and were greeted and supported by VIP National class runners Milena Glusac, Paul Greer, James Sheremeta, and Janice Penrose, as well as parents and school staff.

"This day is all about honoring Chelsea, as the excellent runner, competitor, and student that she was," said Mary Lou Baranowski, Lindbergh Schweitzer physical education teacher and organizer of the event.

Posting a winning time for the Sixth Grade boys final race of the day is Brendan Santana from Carmel Del Mar (repeat champion from last year) with a time of 5:20 for the mile. The top girl finisher was Ireland McCaughley from Dana with a time of 5:49. Second place finisher was Alex Lopez from Lindbergh Schweitzer.

Other schools which had students that participated in this event were Birney, Creekside, Cubberley, Dana, Golden Hill, Grant, Longfellow, Marston, Painted Rock, Perkins, Silver Gate, Skyline, Solana Pacific, Sunset View, The Language Academy and Walker.

For additional information contact Julie Harris, media production assistant, Lindbergh Schweitzer Elementary School, (858) 496-8400, jharris2@sandi.net.

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Investing Principles, Theories Studied by SD MET Students

Seminar leaders Zinc Zeenkov, left, and Dale Davis, far right, join Met students Hannah Brown, Sharmaine Gozo, Stephen Hern and Noah Thoron.

The world of stock-market investments was opened to San Diego Met High School students recently as four students attended a seminar on fundamental investing principals.

The fifth-annual conference by InvestEd, a company that helps train individual investors, provided scholarships so four Met students could attend. Sophomores Hannah Brown, Sharmaine Gozo and Stephen Hern, along with freshman Noah Thoron, spent three days hearing about alternative investment theories and use of technology for stock analysis. The students also networked with successful investors and major company sponsors.

Starting her own portfolio was Hannah Brown, who won two shares of General Electric at the seminar.

For more information, contact Jill Badger at jbadger@sandi.net or (619) 388-2296.

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