June 2010 Archives
POMONA - Bei Collins has a better understanding what her students go through when they get frustrated.
The math teacher from Ramona Junior High in Chino is one of 20 middle school teachers being trained in the Gateway To Technology curriculum at Cal Poly Pomona.
The assignment is one of several for junior high and high school teachers this summer in Project Lead the Way. The intensive two-week program at Cal Poly designed to promote engineering education will be implemented in classrooms the next school year.
"Usually we don't know how students are feeling when they don't get it, and being frustrated can turn them off to whatever it is you're trying to teach them," Collins said.
"Now I know what they're going through, and I can be more patient with the student."
The curriculum covers computer designing and modeling, automation and robotics, energy and the environment.
The math teacher from Ramona Junior High in Chino is one of 20 middle school teachers being trained in the Gateway To Technology curriculum at Cal Poly Pomona.
The assignment is one of several for junior high and high school teachers this summer in Project Lead the Way. The intensive two-week program at Cal Poly designed to promote engineering education will be implemented in classrooms the next school year.
"Usually we don't know how students are feeling when they don't get it, and being frustrated can turn them off to whatever it is you're trying to teach them," Collins said.
"Now I know what they're going through, and I can be more patient with the student."
The curriculum covers computer designing and modeling, automation and robotics, energy and the environment.
Photo: By Jennifer Cappuccio Maher
Continue reading Cal Poly course puts its focus on technology .
CLAREMONT - Attending summer school isn't so bad for Christy Harter, especially if it means not having to hang around her annoying brother.
Christy, a third-grader at Allan Elementary school in San Dimas, is one of almost 150 elementary and middle school students attending Project THINK summer camp at The Old Griswold Hotel near Candlelight Pavilion.
"Being away from home is quite a bit of a treat. I got to learn about oceans and things I didn't know about," said Christy, 8. "It's not so bad being in summer school. It's good to learn things."
Christy, a third-grader at Allan Elementary school in San Dimas, is one of almost 150 elementary and middle school students attending Project THINK summer camp at The Old Griswold Hotel near Candlelight Pavilion.
"Being away from home is quite a bit of a treat. I got to learn about oceans and things I didn't know about," said Christy, 8. "It's not so bad being in summer school. It's good to learn things."
Photos by staff photographer Jennifer Cappuccio Maher
Continue reading Project THINK summer camp brings out curiosity .
ONTARIO - The Big Dipper, Poseidon, greenhouse gases and baking soda were recently part of the Ontario-Montclair School District's second annual Summer Science Academy.
The five-day summer program last week at Vina Danks Middle School had students in fourth through eighth grades working on such scientific topics as chemistry, plate tectonics, genetics and the atmosphere.
"We usually just learn about science or visualize it on a screen, but this is more about experimenting," said Isaac Sanchez, a Vina Danks eighth-grader.
Students in the science academy worked daily in groups for four hours last week.
The five-day summer program last week at Vina Danks Middle School had students in fourth through eighth grades working on such scientific topics as chemistry, plate tectonics, genetics and the atmosphere.
"We usually just learn about science or visualize it on a screen, but this is more about experimenting," said Isaac Sanchez, a Vina Danks eighth-grader.
Students in the science academy worked daily in groups for four hours last week.
Photo by: Jennifer Cappuccio Maher
Continue reading OMSD hosts science academy .
Mt. Baldy School District officials have announced they will implement a full day of kindergarten class for the 2010-11 school year.
The district has one school, consisting of about 106 students in kindergarten through eighth grade.
The full-day classes will begin Sept. 8, six weeks after the first day of school.
"Because we start just after Labor Day I wanted to phase in the full kindergarten day," Superintendent Kevin Vaughn said.
The district will start the first day of school at 8 a.m. and end at the usual dismissal time of 1:05 p.m.
Dismissal time will change to 2:35 p.m. Oct. 25.
Vaughn said other districts have used the same model in extending kindergarten and it has been a success.
Kindergarten classes range from 10 to 12 students, kindergarten teacher Jenny Haushalter said.
"A full day allows kids to be kindergarten kids where they can have a full day of activities in block play, clay, art, writing centers. ... It's just a lot of hands-on experience," Haushalter said.
"In a half day, there is so much pressure to meet the standards that you can't get to it all, but in a full day you can."
For more information, visit www.mtbaldy.k12.ca.us or call 909-985-0991.
The district has one school, consisting of about 106 students in kindergarten through eighth grade.
The full-day classes will begin Sept. 8, six weeks after the first day of school.
"Because we start just after Labor Day I wanted to phase in the full kindergarten day," Superintendent Kevin Vaughn said.
The district will start the first day of school at 8 a.m. and end at the usual dismissal time of 1:05 p.m.
Dismissal time will change to 2:35 p.m. Oct. 25.
Vaughn said other districts have used the same model in extending kindergarten and it has been a success.
Kindergarten classes range from 10 to 12 students, kindergarten teacher Jenny Haushalter said.
"A full day allows kids to be kindergarten kids where they can have a full day of activities in block play, clay, art, writing centers. ... It's just a lot of hands-on experience," Haushalter said.
"In a half day, there is so much pressure to meet the standards that you can't get to it all, but in a full day you can."
For more information, visit www.mtbaldy.k12.ca.us or call 909-985-0991.
Mt. Baldy School District and its Science Academy will host a summer science camp next month.
The two-week camp called "Project E-Squared" starts July 12.
"It's going to be a dual focus on on the environment and the ecosystem of the Mt. Baldy area, and the kids will start school each day doing a lot of exploring," Superintendent Kevin Vaughn said.
Located in the San Gabriel Mountains, the district is within walking distance science-related topics on ecology and ecosystems.
The camp is from 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Thursday for two weeks at 1 Mt. Baldy Road, Mt. Baldy.
The cost of the camp is $105. Transportation is not provided.
Information: www.mtbaldy.k12.ca.us or 909.985-0991.
Author: Wes Woods II, Staff Writer
CLAREMONT - Quarrels between school boards and teacher unions over contracts are nothing new.
But in this city of tree-lined streets and high-achieving colleges, the two sides have been locked in their positions, and no end to the bickering seems to be in sight.
Claremont Faculty Association leaders said Claremont Unified officials have "disrespected" union members for a litany of reasons.
Even cockroaches have entered into the decorum.
But in this city of tree-lined streets and high-achieving colleges, the two sides have been locked in their positions, and no end to the bickering seems to be in sight.
Claremont Faculty Association leaders said Claremont Unified officials have "disrespected" union members for a litany of reasons.
Even cockroaches have entered into the decorum.
Continue reading No end in sight in Claremont Unified school dispute .
Author: Wes Woods II, Staff Writer
CLAREMONT - The school district has passed its three- year budget, but is below the state threshold for reserves in its third year.
This could cause Los Angeles County to get involved in Claremont Unified School District's operations, but school officials said they doubt that will happen.
"We're required to have our reserves above 3 percent," board President Hilary LaConte said.
The reserves, which will be at $239,253 for 2012-13, or the third year, are designated for economic uncertainties by the county, LaConte said.
The district needs about $1.6 million, district officials said.
This could cause Los Angeles County to get involved in Claremont Unified School District's operations, but school officials said they doubt that will happen.
"We're required to have our reserves above 3 percent," board President Hilary LaConte said.
The reserves, which will be at $239,253 for 2012-13, or the third year, are designated for economic uncertainties by the county, LaConte said.
The district needs about $1.6 million, district officials said.
Continue reading Claremont Unified School District passes budget .
POMONA - A group of high school students are learning how to not just be users of technology, but creators of it.
Taking instruction on programing from two Cal Poly students, a group of Brea Olinda High School juniors and seniors in a Global IT Academy class learned how to make a Web browser application for an Apple iPhone.
"We didn't know we could even create apps. It's a different coding program. It's something new," said Natty Lee, a senior.
Taking instruction on programing from two Cal Poly students, a group of Brea Olinda High School juniors and seniors in a Global IT Academy class learned how to make a Web browser application for an Apple iPhone.
"We didn't know we could even create apps. It's a different coding program. It's something new," said Natty Lee, a senior.
Photo by Jennifer Cappuccio Maher, staff photographer
Continue reading High schoolers learn to create apps for iPhones .
Author: Neil Nisperos , Staff Writer
CHINO - Chino Valley Unified boardmembers on Thursday approved about $2.5 million in spending cuts to athletic directors, librarians, intervention counselors, athletic transportation, and its International Baccalaureate program.
The cuts come a time when the district is facing a projected $17 million deficit next year, and a $30 million shortfall in two years. School officials characterized the cuts as "agonizing" but necessary.
Prior to the board decision on Thursday, students, a parent, librarians and an athletic director made impassioned last minute arguments for officials to reconsider.
The cuts come a time when the district is facing a projected $17 million deficit next year, and a $30 million shortfall in two years. School officials characterized the cuts as "agonizing" but necessary.
Prior to the board decision on Thursday, students, a parent, librarians and an athletic director made impassioned last minute arguments for officials to reconsider.
Continue reading School board approves $2.5m in cuts .
It's more of the same for California State University students as their fees will increase.
The system's board of trustees voted Friday to raise fees by 5percent for full-time undergraduates and graduate professional programs as well as increase fees for doctoral education students by 10percent.
Effective in the fall, full-time fees will increase by $204 for undergraduate students, $234 for teacher-credential program participants and $252 for graduate students.
The undergraduate state university fee will rise from $4,026 to $4,230 per year.
Including the current average campus fee of $867, CSU undergraduate students will pay about $5,097 per year, still the lowest fee rate among comparable institutions and $3,270 below the comparison average.
The system's board of trustees voted Friday to raise fees by 5percent for full-time undergraduates and graduate professional programs as well as increase fees for doctoral education students by 10percent.
Effective in the fall, full-time fees will increase by $204 for undergraduate students, $234 for teacher-credential program participants and $252 for graduate students.
The undergraduate state university fee will rise from $4,026 to $4,230 per year.
Including the current average campus fee of $867, CSU undergraduate students will pay about $5,097 per year, still the lowest fee rate among comparable institutions and $3,270 below the comparison average.
Continue reading CSU raises fees for students .
Ontario-Montclair School District board member Paul Avila may be looking to spread his wings in another school district.
Avila, who has been vocal at previous school board meetings about possibly retiring from the OMSD board after the end of this term in December, implied something new at Thursday's board meeting.
"I had the wonderful opportunity to visit the Chaffey Joint Union High School District board meeting and it was very well done," Avila said. "I visited this particular meeting for a reason ... and if you want to find out what I'm going to do you have to wait until July 12."
Avila, who has been vocal at previous school board meetings about possibly retiring from the OMSD board after the end of this term in December, implied something new at Thursday's board meeting.
"I had the wonderful opportunity to visit the Chaffey Joint Union High School District board meeting and it was very well done," Avila said. "I visited this particular meeting for a reason ... and if you want to find out what I'm going to do you have to wait until July 12."
Continue reading Avila hints he's thinking of run for Chaffey high school board .
For two days last week Mountain View School District teachers and parents rallied in front of their schools to protest layoffs and class-size increases.
The district has planned to eliminate 17 permanent teachers for the 2010-11 school year, as well as seven temporary teachers on a year-to-year contract or on temporary assignment.
The district has also proposed to increase class sizes to one teacher for 25 students, from 1-to-20.
The protests on June 8 and 9 -- organized by the Associated Mountain View Teachers -- were held at the district's four south Ontario school sites and district office, as well as after the eighth-grade commencement ceremony, which was held at Colony High School.
"We have board members who are up for re-election, and we want to let parents know what is happening to their students, and if not then they should vote them out," said Jacqueline Carter, union president.
Continue reading Mountain View teachers protest layoffs.
- In response to recent legislative budget action, the California State University Board of Trustees today voted to raise the State University Fee by five percent for undergraduates and graduate professional programs. Trustees also increased fees for doctoral education students by 10 percent. For full-time undergraduates, that translates into a $204 annual increase, and brings the total State University Fee to $4,230 beginning fall 2010.
"The board's decision to limit the student fee increase to five percent is based on the Assembly budget proposal that provides additional state revenues. It will allow us to move forward with adding classes and sections for students this fall," said CSU Chancellor Charles B. Reed. The board also left open the option of revisiting fee levels in November if the state does not fully fund the proposed budget.
Governor Schwarzenegger's budget proposal for the CSU calls for a restoration of $305 million that would serve to backfill a "one-time" reduction to the CSU budget from 2009-2010, as well as an additional $60.6 million that would fund enrollment expansion.
"The board's decision to limit the student fee increase to five percent is based on the Assembly budget proposal that provides additional state revenues. It will allow us to move forward with adding classes and sections for students this fall," said CSU Chancellor Charles B. Reed. The board also left open the option of revisiting fee levels in November if the state does not fully fund the proposed budget.
Governor Schwarzenegger's budget proposal for the CSU calls for a restoration of $305 million that would serve to backfill a "one-time" reduction to the CSU budget from 2009-2010, as well as an additional $60.6 million that would fund enrollment expansion.
Additionally, the California State Assembly budget committee has advanced a proposal to maintain the Governor's proposed budget, with use of one-time funding for the restoration of $305 million, and also provides additional state revenues as a partial replacement of CSU fee revenues.
Revenue from a five percent fee increase ($50 million), coupled with the funding proposed in the Assembly's version of the budget would provide the CSU with an increase of roughly $466 million over the 2009-2010 budget, a figure that still falls short of the $480 million needed to fully restore resources to 2007-2008 levels.
Continue reading CSU Trustees Vote to Raise 2010-2011 Fees by Five Percent .
Businessman and philanthropist Mickey Segal and his wife, Lee, have pledged $2 million to Cal Poly Pomona, their alma mater.
"I have this bell in my head. It says, 'You know you have been extremely successful and if you want to stay successful, it's your obligation to give back.' That bell keeps me driven and motivated," said Segal
Segal's ties with the university run deep: 1980 cum laude graduate, member of the Accounting Hall of Fame, 1998 Distinguished Alumnus, member of the University Educational Trust and the National Development Council, vice chair of planned giving for the upcoming comprehensive campaign and major donor to the new College of Business Administration complex.
Continue reading Mickey and Lee Segal Pledge $2 Million to Cal Poly Pomona.
Author: Neil Nisperos , Staff Writer
CHINO - Samantha Arroyo and Ameris Bocardo both found the challenge of teenage pregnancy in high school, but they also found the promise of scholarship through a supportive environment.
Arroyo and Bocardo were honored as valedictorian and salutatorian of Buena Vista High School, the continuation high school of the Chino Valley Unified School District, at the school's graduation ceremony.
"Samantha had our highest GPA," said Buena Vista principal Rigoberto Vasquez. "Besides having a child, she kept up with her studies. Many times she stayed up until 2 or 3 in the morning to take care of the baby, but also to finish homework. She made it through and was able to perservere thanks to her parents and grandparents. Ameris went through the same situation."
Arroyo and Bocardo were honored as valedictorian and salutatorian of Buena Vista High School, the continuation high school of the Chino Valley Unified School District, at the school's graduation ceremony.
"Samantha had our highest GPA," said Buena Vista principal Rigoberto Vasquez. "Besides having a child, she kept up with her studies. Many times she stayed up until 2 or 3 in the morning to take care of the baby, but also to finish homework. She made it through and was able to perservere thanks to her parents and grandparents. Ameris went through the same situation."
Continue reading Buena Vista honors top students .
School may be out for Ontario-Montclair School District students, but it's just beginning for the district's new superintendent.
In the next three weeks, James Hammond said he expects to visit every school, meet with union representatives, get to know his staff and make sure everyone knows his mission is all about students and education.
"I'm excited for OMSD families and the district's future," Hammond said. "I want to be able to continue the upward trend we've been seeing in test scores these recent years and finding ways where I can add to that - wether it's from my own experience or bringing in new relationships to the district and to the education of these children."
In the next three weeks, James Hammond said he expects to visit every school, meet with union representatives, get to know his staff and make sure everyone knows his mission is all about students and education.
"I'm excited for OMSD families and the district's future," Hammond said. "I want to be able to continue the upward trend we've been seeing in test scores these recent years and finding ways where I can add to that - wether it's from my own experience or bringing in new relationships to the district and to the education of these children."
Continue reading Ontario-Montclair School District welcomes new superindendent .
Monte Vista Water District recently announced the winners of its annual "Water is Life" art poster contest.
The contest was open to students enrolled in K-12 grades schools within the water district's service area, who were requested to create an art poster depicting various water uses or water conservation topics.
The water district received 185 entries representing 11 classrooms in six schools.
K-3 grade division winners:
First place winner was third-grader Rebecca Schober Lyle Briggs Fundamental School in Chino.
Second place winner was third-grader Susana Ferris of Lyle Briggs Fundamental School in Chino.
Third place winner was second-grade Vanessa Sagredo at Howard Elementary School in Montclair.
Continue reading Monte Vista Water District announces poster winners.
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell released the results of a survey of local district to find out how state budget cuts to public education are affecting them.
O'Connell held a news conference earlier this month in the Natomas Unified School District in Sacramento County where all eight elementary school libraries were shut down to close a budget gap.
"The survey results make clear that school administrators are making heartrending decisions to balance their dwindling budgets while trying valiantly to keep students' best interests in mind," said O'Connell.
"Sixty-five percent of districts that responded to this survey made cuts to building and school grounds maintenance, 58 percent cut funding for instructional materials, and 58 percent reduced funding for district administration.
Continue reading Study shows how state cuts affects education.
Westwood College will host a free criminal justice career fair on Thursday.
The fair is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 2890 Inland Empire Blvd., Ontario.
The event will include a live broadcast from 99.1 KGGI as well as a LifeStream blood drive.
As well as the Riverside Sheriff, Bureau of Prisons, San Bernardino County POST Training, Riverside Area Rape Crisis Center, LA Victim/Witness Assistance, Operation Safehouse and San Gabriel Children's Center.
Information: 909-931-7599.
CLAREMONT - A majority of homeowners said they would support a parcel tax or bond to help cash-strapped Claremont Unified School District.
The district conducted a survey of 600 voters between April 23 and May 4, and support for such a measure is solid, said Jared Boigon, a partner of the firm TBWB, which conducted the survey with True North Research.
Boigon said 58 percent were in support of a bond measure, and 65 percent favored a parcel tax.
The district conducted a survey of 600 voters between April 23 and May 4, and support for such a measure is solid, said Jared Boigon, a partner of the firm TBWB, which conducted the survey with True North Research.
Boigon said 58 percent were in support of a bond measure, and 65 percent favored a parcel tax.
Continue reading Survey shows support for parcel tax or bond for Claremont Unified schools .
Author: Neil Nisperos , Staff Writer
CHINO HILLS - With revenue declines impacting state and local agencies, council members will soon consider dipping into the city's general fund reserve.
The city has enacted a number of cost-saving measures to help fill $3.2 million deficit resulting from lower revenue projections.
Officials blamed current budget challenges on the economic downturn, decline in the real estate market and interest rates as well as exhausted one-time revenues.
The city has enacted a number of cost-saving measures to help fill $3.2 million deficit resulting from lower revenue projections.
Officials blamed current budget challenges on the economic downturn, decline in the real estate market and interest rates as well as exhausted one-time revenues.
Continue reading Chino Hills cuts budget as revenues decline .
The Etiwanda School District will reduce the 2010-11 school year by 2.5 days to help close a $14.5 million budget gap.
Teachers will work a half day on Aug. 4 and classes will not be in session Aug. 27 as well as March 28, said Sylvia Kordich, district assistant superintendent of instruction and pupil services.
The schedule changes will save $1.2 million, said Jerry Schumacher, director of fiscal services.
Etiwanda officials selected the dates based on a district study, Superintendent Shawn Judson said.
Board members on Thursday announced the shortening of the schedule.
The district's 2009-10 school year was reduced by three days, which resulted in almost a 2 percent salary reduction.
Earlier this year, Ontario-based Chaffey Joint Union High School District reduced its school year by three days. The district canceled classes on March 29, April 26 and May 17.
"We are two separate districts but we share the same families," Judson said. "What we noticed in our study is when students were off from Chaffey we saw a decrease in our attendance and what equates to is less revenue for average daily attendance."
Teachers will work a half day on Aug. 4 and classes will not be in session Aug. 27 as well as March 28, said Sylvia Kordich, district assistant superintendent of instruction and pupil services.
The schedule changes will save $1.2 million, said Jerry Schumacher, director of fiscal services.
Etiwanda officials selected the dates based on a district study, Superintendent Shawn Judson said.
Board members on Thursday announced the shortening of the schedule.
The district's 2009-10 school year was reduced by three days, which resulted in almost a 2 percent salary reduction.
Earlier this year, Ontario-based Chaffey Joint Union High School District reduced its school year by three days. The district canceled classes on March 29, April 26 and May 17.
"We are two separate districts but we share the same families," Judson said. "What we noticed in our study is when students were off from Chaffey we saw a decrease in our attendance and what equates to is less revenue for average daily attendance."
Los Angeles Universal Preschool has selected a Claremont educator as a recipient of the "Los Angeles County Preschool Teacher of the Year Awards."
Shawn James, who teaches preschool at Mountain View Elementary operated by the Claremont Unified School District, is one of six preschool teachers countywide who were selected to receive the award.
Winners needed to demonstrate a strong commitment to a quality preschool education and a dedication to making a positive contribution to the children they serve, using creative instructional strategies as well as contributing to the well-being of the child, preschool and community.
James was nominated by Kristen Wilson, a parent whose daughter Abigail attends his class.
"All of the parents are grateful to have such an amazing teacher for our kids," Wilson said. "All of the kids light up when they see him in class; he makes learning fun and exciting for them."
Wilson added James encourages his students to be creative and expressive, adding he spends much of his lunch breaks preparing lessons and crafts for the benefit of children.
LAUP created the Los Angeles County Preschool Teacher of the Year Awards in 2008 to recognize the contributions of preschool teachers, and to highlight the importance of a high-quality preschool experience.
The Alta Loma School District board of trustees held a closed session meeting last week to discuss the employment of the superintendent.
"There were no announcements out of the closed session meeting, the board is continuing to work on a plan for the future leadership of the district," said Michael Whisenand, the district's assistant superintendent of personnel/support services.
In April, the district and Superintendent Rebecca Lawrence agreed to go their separate ways after less than two years.
School district officials announced Lawrence's resignation after extensive discussions about the needs of the district.
Officials have not disclosed additional details about Lawrence's departure.
According to a letter sent to district staff members, "The board and superintendent have had extensive discussions regarding the leadership needs of the district and have come to a mutual agreement that a change would be in the best interest of both parties."
The letter also said the board would support Lawrence's efforts to seek a new job.
In the meantime, assistant superintendents have been responsible for the district's management.
Author: Sandra Emerson , Staff Writer
POMONA - Thousands of Cal Poly Pomona graduates clad in their caps and gowns gathered in the university quad this weekend for the school's 54th annual commencement ceremonies.
More than 3,800 students are receiving their bachelor's degrees, while more than 500 students are receiving their master's degrees.
The eight colleges on campus are holding their own ceremonies from Friday through today.
Andrew Arons, 22, spoke to his fellow graduates during the College of Business Administration ceremony Saturday.
More than 3,800 students are receiving their bachelor's degrees, while more than 500 students are receiving their master's degrees.
The eight colleges on campus are holding their own ceremonies from Friday through today.
Andrew Arons, 22, spoke to his fellow graduates during the College of Business Administration ceremony Saturday.
Continue reading Thousands receive Cal Poly degrees from 8 colleges .
Author: Wes Woods II, Staff Writer
CLAREMONT - Scripps College announced a new interim dean of students on Friday.
Rebecca Lee will replace vice president and dean of students Debra Wood. Wood on July 1 will leave the school after 12 years.
"I know Bekki will be an effective advocate and counselor for students, and that she will encourage active communication among students and the larger Scripps College community," Scripps College President Lori Bettison-Varga said. "I am looking forward to having such a capable leader on my team."
Lee has almost 30 years of student development experience. She has expertise in academic advising, residential life, supporting as well as promoting diversity and career counseling.
"I am delighted to have the opportunity to partner with staff, faculty, trustees, alumnae-and most important-students, to contribute to a campus environment of support, exploration and growth," Lee said.
Scripps College spokesman Steve Sabicer said no immediate welcoming would be held for Lee because there is not a lot of faculty on campus during summer.
"We'll probably do something in August," Sabicer said.
Rebecca Lee will replace vice president and dean of students Debra Wood. Wood on July 1 will leave the school after 12 years.
"I know Bekki will be an effective advocate and counselor for students, and that she will encourage active communication among students and the larger Scripps College community," Scripps College President Lori Bettison-Varga said. "I am looking forward to having such a capable leader on my team."
Lee has almost 30 years of student development experience. She has expertise in academic advising, residential life, supporting as well as promoting diversity and career counseling.
"I am delighted to have the opportunity to partner with staff, faculty, trustees, alumnae-and most important-students, to contribute to a campus environment of support, exploration and growth," Lee said.
Scripps College spokesman Steve Sabicer said no immediate welcoming would be held for Lee because there is not a lot of faculty on campus during summer.
"We'll probably do something in August," Sabicer said.
Author: Neil Nisperos Staff Writer
Two Chino Valley Unified district teachers were recently honored as elementary and secondary teachers of the year for 2010.
The annual honor is bestowed after a vote by fellow union members, said Associated Chino Teachers union president Justine Cunningham.
"They are well-thought-of by their peers, they have made vast contributions to the students they've taught, and our committee felt they were the best candidates for this year," Cunningham said.
Carol Koutzoukis and Harry Tooley said they were both very honored for the recognition.
The annual honor is bestowed after a vote by fellow union members, said Associated Chino Teachers union president Justine Cunningham.
"They are well-thought-of by their peers, they have made vast contributions to the students they've taught, and our committee felt they were the best candidates for this year," Cunningham said.
Carol Koutzoukis and Harry Tooley said they were both very honored for the recognition.
Continue reading CVUSD teachers named Teachers of the Year .
The National Science Foundation has awarded the California State University three grants totaling $2.1 million to support rigorous and innovative science masters programs that prepare students for careers in industry settings.
The NSF received more than 200 applications for funding, and awarded only 21 grants across the nation. In this highly competitive funding climate, the three CSU programs represent the only California-based projects funded by NSF with CSU receiving 14 percent of the overall funding awarded across the nation.
CSU's science masters programs are designed to prepare a scientifically trained workforce for the nation's high growth science and technology industries.
Over the past five years, CSU has developed 25 specially-designed Professional Science Master's programs on 18 campuses that function as distinctive graduate programs in the sciences.
They involve industry partners in program design, instruction, and evaluation and create strong corporate partnerships through industry advisory boards that help to ensure graduate education is relevant. In addition, each student is required to complete an internship, typically in an industry setting.
Continue reading California State University receives $2.1 million.
Rancho Cucamonga Middle School eighth-grade class graduated on May 26 with nine valedictorians.
The students received straight A's in sixth, seventh and eighth grade.
The valedictorians:
Jennifer Alvarado
Cassandra Cao
Rebecca Espindola
Rebekah Gonzales
Shannen Maghanoy
Jacqueline Moreno
Kelsey Ortega
Ezra Panjaitan
Aaron Woodward
Back for another term will be San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Gary Thomas.
The appointed incumbent, Thomas has been at the county office for six years and took over after longtime Superintendent Herb Fischer retired before the 2008-09 school year.
The chief administrative officer of the County Superintendent of Schools executes the policies established by the County Board of Education.
Voters chose Thomas over Rita Ramirez-Dean and Art Delgado during the primary election last week.
Continue reading SB County re-elects incumbent superintendent.
Some neophyte politicians spent megabucks gained from their famous companies to persuade California voters Tuesday to grant them a spot on the November ballot.
Then there was Larry Aceves.
The retired superintendent of San Jose's Franklin-McKinley, a school district obscure even in its own county, stumbled onto the ballot for California's superintendent of public instruction after a low-budget campaign tour of the Rotary and PTA circuit. Topping 11 other candidates,
Aceves won 18.8 percent of the statewide vote, the secretary of state's office reported Wednesday.
"I pinched myself several times to make sure this wasn't a dream," Aceves said.
Assemblyman Tom Torlakson, D-Martinez, won 18 percent and the chance to face Aceves in a November runoff. Sen. Gloria Romero, D-Los Angeles, earned 17.2 percent of the vote, while nine others each got less than 10 percent in their quest to replace outgoing schools chief Jack O'Connell.
Torlakson, fortified with generous contributions from school employee unions, won 15 counties in the Bay Area and north coast.
Ontario-based Mountain View School District Superintendent Rick Carr was pleased to hear Aceves reached the runoff.
"He truly understands the needs of students," Carr said. "Because there are so many intricate elements that come with the job of state superintendent, you have to be someone who's been there, done that. I do believe he would be the best person to serve the students of California."
Aceves, 66, who retired four years ago as Franklin-McKinley's superintendent, said he worked hard to get that attention, speaking at Rotary clubs, chambers of commerce, PTA conferences and "anywhere that people would invite me."
-The San Jose Mercury News and Staff Writer Canan Tasci contributed to this report.
Author: Neil Nisperos , Staff Writer
CHINO - Dread over new budget cuts hangs over the Chino Valley Unified School District as officials face a potential $30 million deficit in the next two years.
Officials warned the district's projected shortfall of $17 million next year could grow to more than $30 million in 2013 if a deficit spending trend remains unchecked.
"I don't mean to be the prophet of doom and I'm not an alarmist, but you've heard figures of $30 million, which means that these contingency (cuts) I'm bringing to you next Thursday are just a piece of this," Superintendent Wayne Joseph said to board members at a budget study session on Tuesday.
Officials warned the district's projected shortfall of $17 million next year could grow to more than $30 million in 2013 if a deficit spending trend remains unchecked.
"I don't mean to be the prophet of doom and I'm not an alarmist, but you've heard figures of $30 million, which means that these contingency (cuts) I'm bringing to you next Thursday are just a piece of this," Superintendent Wayne Joseph said to board members at a budget study session on Tuesday.
"If this continues to spiral out of control, this board is going to have to make some very, very tough key decisions about this budget. It is not going to be pretty. It's going to be very ugly, and I just want us to be ready because it's going to happen."
Continue reading Chino district readies for deficit .
ONTARIO - For two days, Mountain View School District teachers and parents have rallied in front of their schools to protest layoffs and class-size increases.
The district has planned to eliminate 17 permanent teachers for the 2010-11 school year and seven temporary teachers on year-to-year contracts or temporary assignments.
The district has also proposed increasing class sizes from 20 students for every teacher to 25.
The district has planned to eliminate 17 permanent teachers for the 2010-11 school year and seven temporary teachers on year-to-year contracts or temporary assignments.
The district has also proposed increasing class sizes from 20 students for every teacher to 25.
Continue reading Mountain View teachers protest layoffs .
Author: Wes Woods II, Staff Writer
CLAREMONT - Claremont Unified School District will soon lose decades of experience to retirement.
Jim Coombs, assistant superintendent of educational services, is set to become principal at Buena Park High School in Fullerton.
"I've enjoyed this, but my real passion is being with kids," said Coombs, a 20-year education veteran. "I'm going to miss Claremont a great deal. I've been in the city for 10 years. My kids go here."
Coombs' last day with Claremont Unified will be June 30. He will start at Buena Park High on July 1.
Applications for Coombs' position will be taken until Friday.
Coombs won't be alone among Claremont Unified employees making retirement plans. Director of Human Services Devon Freitas, who is set to retire July 1, is helping train Oakmont Elementary School Principal Kevin Ward to take over her position on June 21. Freitas has spent almost 40 years in education.
At last week's school board meeting, Ward said that he looked forward to staying with Claremont Unified for "many more years."
Also, Linda Hunt, administrative assistant to Superintendent Terry Nichols, is expected to retire this month. Hunt is training her replacement, Elizabeth Jefferson.
Jim Coombs, assistant superintendent of educational services, is set to become principal at Buena Park High School in Fullerton.
"I've enjoyed this, but my real passion is being with kids," said Coombs, a 20-year education veteran. "I'm going to miss Claremont a great deal. I've been in the city for 10 years. My kids go here."
Coombs' last day with Claremont Unified will be June 30. He will start at Buena Park High on July 1.
Applications for Coombs' position will be taken until Friday.
Coombs won't be alone among Claremont Unified employees making retirement plans. Director of Human Services Devon Freitas, who is set to retire July 1, is helping train Oakmont Elementary School Principal Kevin Ward to take over her position on June 21. Freitas has spent almost 40 years in education.
At last week's school board meeting, Ward said that he looked forward to staying with Claremont Unified for "many more years."
Also, Linda Hunt, administrative assistant to Superintendent Terry Nichols, is expected to retire this month. Hunt is training her replacement, Elizabeth Jefferson.
Author: Neil Nisperos , Staff Writer
CHINO - As state education funding continues to decrease, the Chino Valley Unified school board is projecting another severe shortfall in its two-year budget outlook.
School district officials are projecting a $17 million deficit for the 2011-12 school year, according to the district's third interim fiscal report.
Geri Partida, assistant superintendent of business services, warned the shortfall could grow to more than $30 million by fall 2013 if spending trends remain unchecked.
School district officials are projecting a $17 million deficit for the 2011-12 school year, according to the district's third interim fiscal report.
Geri Partida, assistant superintendent of business services, warned the shortfall could grow to more than $30 million by fall 2013 if spending trends remain unchecked.
Continue reading Chino Valley board must deal with more budget woes .
Author: Neil Nisperos , Staff Writer
CHINO - After months of wrangling over a location, officials are set to open one of the largest independent charter schools in the country at a vacant district elementary school in the city.
Oxford Preparatory Academy, a charter school for students in K-8, is expected to open at the former site of El Rancho Elementary School on Sept. 7.
Steven Holguin, an official with the California Charter Schools Association, said he and other staff members with the charter school support organization couldn't recall a larger independent startup charter school opening in California.
Oxford Preparatory Academy, a charter school for students in K-8, is expected to open at the former site of El Rancho Elementary School on Sept. 7.
Steven Holguin, an official with the California Charter Schools Association, said he and other staff members with the charter school support organization couldn't recall a larger independent startup charter school opening in California.
Continue reading Oxford Prep to open at former Chino school .
Author: Wes Woods II, Staff Writer
SAN DIMAS - The Bonita Unified School District has a handle on its budget problems for now.
School board officials discussed their proposed approximately $73.8 million budget in 2010-11 on Wednesday night.
The district has been able to use some of its reserves to balance the budget, a situation Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Ann Sparks said was a "fortunate" one.
"I think we were fortunate to have adequate reserves to be able up to this point save some of the onerous budget and expenditure reductions," she said.
"But we're probably a year different than other districts. We've had to make significant cuts. And if the state revenue troubles continue, we'll have to look at everything again for budget reductions."
The final budget will be presented before the board on June 23.
School board officials discussed their proposed approximately $73.8 million budget in 2010-11 on Wednesday night.
The district has been able to use some of its reserves to balance the budget, a situation Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Ann Sparks said was a "fortunate" one.
"I think we were fortunate to have adequate reserves to be able up to this point save some of the onerous budget and expenditure reductions," she said.
"But we're probably a year different than other districts. We've had to make significant cuts. And if the state revenue troubles continue, we'll have to look at everything again for budget reductions."
The final budget will be presented before the board on June 23.
Continue reading Bonita budget averts major pain, for now .
Brett Hernandez-Henderson of Ontario is a recipient of the Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC) scholarship.
The scholarship has awarded $28,000 in scholarships to two dozen California teenagers.
PORAC representing more than 62,000 rank-and-file peace officers and 890 local public safety associations.
Students were selected throughout the state of California because of their community involvement and school achievements.
The PORAC Scholarship process begins in January and the pool consists of more than 125 applicants. Scholarship winners must be the child of an active, retired or line of duty member of PORAC.
Applicants must provide a one- page essay on why they should win the award, as well as information on community activities, school activities and current transcripts.
Pomona Unified School District board of trustees will not meeting this Wednesday for a meeting.
Instead, the district officials will meet 7:30 p.m. June 9 at the Education Center board room, 800 S. Garey Ave. Information: 909-397-4800.
