SBCUSD Connect Newsletter - June 2, 2023

In the Spotlight Class of 2023 Valedictorians Dear Class of 2023 Valedictorians, Congratulations on your outstanding achievements as valedictorians! Your hard work, passion, and leadership have made a lasting impact on your respective high schools. Embrace the future with confidence and continue to inspire others. Thank your supporters and cherish the memories. Best wishes for your future endeavors! And, do tell us, how does it feel to be at the top of your class? Use the hashtag #SBCUSDBestInClass to share your amazing valedictorian stories with us!  Arroyo Valley High School Ari Ixcoy 4.8 GPA Future college: UCR Future major: Biology Cajon High School Yusuf Anteur 4.82 GPA Future college: Undecided Future major: Physics Cajon High School Samantha Penaloza Cabrera 4.8 GPA Future college: Undecided Future major: Business Economics Cajon High School Riley Snyder 4.81 GPA Future college: Undecided Future major: Aerospace Engineering Cajon High School Ramsey Doueiri 4.89 GPA Future college: Stanford University Future major: Economics Indian Springs High School Dulce Acevedo  4.77 GPA Future college: Undecided Future major: Political Science  Middle College High School Bianca Galvan  4.9 GPA Future college: Undecided Future major: Neuroscience Middle College High School Jacob Vargas  4.9 GPA Future college: Undecided Future major: Psychology/ Nursing Middle College High School Brianna Perez  4.9 GPA Future college: Undecided Future major: Psychology Middle College High School Tyler Phan  4.75 GPA Future college: Undecided Future major: Aerospace Engineering Middle College High School Sheik Sahadat  4.9 GPA Future college: Undecided Future major: Biology Pacific High School Lizbeth “Liz” Rodriguez-Flores  4.74 GPA Future college: Undecided Future major: Child Development San Bernardino High School Kaida “Karma” Akahoshi  4.66 GPA Future college: Undecided Future major: Illustration Biomed San Gorgonio High School Ashley Aguirre  4.74 GPA Future college: Undecided Future major: Ultrasound Technician San Gorgonio High School Hector Diaz  4.75 GPA Future college: Undecided Future major: Electrical Engineering/ Computer Science San Gorgonio High School Odalys Jacinto 4.75 GPA Future college: UC Davis Future major: Animal Science San Gorgonio High School Sandra Perez Silva 4.75 GPA Future college: Undecided Future major: Nursing Virtual Academy Monica Matul-Carreon 4.37 GPA Future college: Undecided Future major: Pharmacological Chemistry Look to next week’s SBCUSD Connect for a list of all our amazing Class of 2023 Salutatorians! Future in Focus Quick tips, brief updates, and reminders about what’s coming up to help families, employees, and our community make the most of our schools. Summer School Starts Students who are enrolled in summer school will start on June 7, 2023. We look forward to seeing students during summer school, where there will be plenty of learning and fun, too.  First Day of School Reminder The first day of school for the 2023-2024 school year is Monday, July 31, and it’s a minimum day. So stay tuned for minimum day dismissal times, which vary by grade level.  Late Start is Almost Here  As families prepare for the summer break, please remember that SBCUSD is implementing new start and end times effective July 31, the first day of school for the 2023-2024 school year. This is necessary to comply with Senate Bill 328 (Portantino Rule), which requires high schools to begin no earlier than 8:30 a.m. and middle schools no earlier than 8:00 a.m. The option that the Board of Education selected and was also widely supported by families has elementary school students attending class from 8:50 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., as they do now, while middle school students will be in school from 8 a.m. to 2:31 p.m. High school students will attend class from 8:30 a.m. to 3:35 p.m., an hour later than this school year. Summer Graduation Date Announced  The Superintendent’s Summer Graduation will be at 6:00 pm on July 17, 2023. This is a special opportunity for seniors who needed a little extra time to fulfill all their high school graduation requirements! They worked extra hard and deserve a ceremony of their own.  Board of Education Meeting  Tuesday, June 6, 2023 5:30 p.m. Dr. Margaret Hill Community Room 777 North F Street San Bernardino Watch live on YouTube Weekly Bulletin Each Monday morning, SBCUSD publishes the Weekly Bulletin through ParentSquare, where we share a collection of events to keep you connected to SBCUSD and the community. Check out the Weekly Bulletin Mondays at 11 a.m. Highlights of the Week Highlights of key news from the week that will help you stay in the know. SBCUSD Bids Farewell to Class of 2023 As the academic year draws to a close, it's time to shine the spotlight on an exceptional group of students—the graduating Class of 2023 in the San Bernardino City Unified School District. These young individuals, 3,136 to be exact, have overcome challenges, embraced opportunities, and displayed unwavering determination throughout their educational journey. Let's take a moment to celebrate their achievements and acknowledge the impact they have made. The Class of 2023 has demonstrated resilience in the face of unprecedented circumstances. They have weathered a global pandemic, navigating through distance learning, hybrid models, and ever-changing educational landscapes. Their adaptability, perseverance, and ability to thrive amidst adversity are a testament to their strength of character. Have a Safe Summer!  As summer arrives, SBCUSD wants to extend our warm wishes for a safe and enjoyable season.  Remember to stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun, and practice water safety. Prioritize road trip safety, respect nature, and be mindful of COVID-19 precautions. May your summer be filled with wonderful memories and moments that bring joy to your family. Stay safe and have a fantastic summer! See you on Monday, July 31!  Spartan is Air Force Academy Bound Congratulations to San Gorgonio High School senior Jackson Barkley who was presented with an appointment to the US Air Force Academy Prep School located in Colorado Springs! Jackson’s appointment was presented to him during graduation ceremonies by San Bernardino County Superintendent of School Ted Alejandre. Alejandre is a lieutenant colonel in the Air Force Reserves and served 17 years with the 701ST Combat Operations Squadron. He serves as an Air Force liaison officer for local high schools and is responsible for the recruitment/evaluation of prospective students for the Air Force Academy. SBCUSD in the News  San Bernardino High kicks off graduations celebrating Class of 2023 Produced and Distributed by the SBCUSD Communications/Community Relations Department

Friday, Jun 02 2023

SBCUSD Weekly Bulletin Board - May 29, 2023

Weekly Bulletin Board  |   May 29, 2023     Attention 8th Grade Parents!  Enroll your children in the 9th Grade Summer Bridge Program To all current 8th Grade Parents, "Have an 8th grader going to high school for the 23-24 school year? Want to ensure they have a successful school year? Enroll them in the 9th grade Summer Bridge program at their high school.  This program will help them get acclimated to their school and give them the skills needed to succeed in their 9th grade classes. Contact your child's 23-24 high school to register them." Before & After School Program Registration is  now open for 2023-24 School Year Want to here more about the Expanded Learning Program,  download our May 2023 Newsletter attached to this email. Concerned about your child's development?  Join us for Early Start Information Days Important Bulletins from the San Bernardino Public Library Bulletins from the City of San Bernardino Parks, Recreation & Community Services Other Bulletins

Monday, May 29 2023

SBCUSD Connect Newsletter - May 26, 2023

In the Spotlight San Bernardino City Unified Celebrates Successful Inaugural LGBTQIAA+ Pride Celebration, Uniting Over 400 Students and Supporters Event Drew Representative from Governor Newsom’s Office                  San Bernardino City Unified proudly held its highly successful LGBTQIAA+ Pride Celebration on Saturday, May 20, bringing more than 400 students, families, and supporters to Indian Springs High School. The inaugural event brought together students, educators, and members of the community in an inspiring display of unity, acceptance, and celebration of the LGBTQIAA+ community that also drew a representative from Gov. Gavin’s Newsom’s office. With an overwhelming attendance of enthusiastic participants, the LGBTQIAA+ Pride Celebration exceeded all expectations, said Colleen Williams, Director of Student Wellness and Support Services, the department that organized what will become an annual event. More than 400 students and supporters joined forces to create a memorable day filled with love, acceptance, and meaningful connections. The event featured a rich program of engaging activities, designed to foster understanding, promote inclusivity, and raise awareness about LGBTQIIA+ rights. Students actively participated in interactive discussions and thought-provoking presentations, which provided valuable insights into the challenges faced by the LGBTQIAA+ community and the importance of creating encouraging spaces for all. Board of Education member Abigail Rosales-Medina delivered a heartfelt and inspiring keynote address about her own difficult journey of coming out as an adult and also accepted a $1,500 donation from the local Teamsters union on behalf of the District. Rosales-Medina told attendees she was proud of SBCUSD for setting an example for the region, state, and nation for how Districts can be more inclusive and prioritize the health and wellness of all students. “Our students need to feel loved and respected, and they need to be treated with dignity,” Abigail-Rosales said. “At the end of the day, we want to make sure everyone is doing well, not just in academics but also making sure their well-being and their mental health needs are being met.” According to the most recent results of an annual District survey that measures student sense of belonging and whether they feel safe, about 47 percent of LGBTQIAA+ students in grades  6 through 12 rated their sense of belonging as favorable, compared to 53 percent for all other students. Throughout Saturday’s event, vibrant performances by talented students showcased their artistic abilities and highlighted the diversity within the LGBTQIAA+ community. Attendees were treated to an array of artistic expressions, including dance, music, and poetry, creating an atmosphere of celebration and empowerment. Arroyo Valley High School senior Yahaira Dominguez, 18, was among the students who participated in a youth discussion panel. Yahaira, a student organizer with Inland Congregations United for Change (ICUC) and Prism Collective, encouraged LGBTQIAA+ young people to stay strong and find ways to be catalysts for change. “Throughout your life, you will find people who will support you,” said Yahaira, who is headed to UC Berkeley to major in legal studies this fall. “I’ve come so very far. That’s why I want to empower students and give back to the community.” In addition to a diverse array of LGBTQIAA+ community groups, the day’s supporters also included the San Bernardino Teachers Association (SBTA), Teamsters, ICUC, District nurses, and local churches. Carina Tamayo, Southern California Regional Coordinator of External Affairs for Gov. Newsom, was also in attendance Saturday. “The LGBTQIAA+ Pride Celebration at Indian Springs High School was an incredible success, thanks to the dedication and enthusiasm of our students, staff, and community members,” Williams said. “This event has reaffirmed our commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, promoting understanding, and celebrating diversity.” SBCUSD extends its heartfelt appreciation to the event coordinators, volunteers, and the entire school community for their unwavering support and commitment to creating an unforgettable celebration. The success of the LGBTQIAA+ Pride Celebration is a testament to the unity and strength that can be achieved when people come together in the spirit of acceptance and love, Williams said. Future in Focus Quick tips, brief updates, and reminders about what’s coming up to help families, employees, and our community make the most of our schools. Monday’s a School Holiday All SBCUSD schools and administrative offices will be closed on Monday, May 29 in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. We look forward to welcoming students back to school on May 30.  Summer Bridge for Incoming Ninth-Graders   Attention families of eighth-graders. You can now enroll your children in the ninth-grade  Summer Bridge Program.  Have an eighth-grader going to high school for the 2023–2024 school year? Want to ensure they have a successful school year? Enroll them in the ninth-grade Summer Bridge program at their high school. This program will help them get acclimated to their school and give them the skills needed to succeed in their ninth-grade classes. Contact the high school your child will attend during the 2023–2024 school year to register them. Free Medical Clinic Coming Up The Tzu Chi Foundation is hosting a free medical clinic on Sunday, June 11 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Indian Springs High School, 650 North Del Rosa Dr., in San Bernardino. Appointments are recommended, but not required and services include: Blood sugar testing Adult and pediatric medicine Western medicine and acupuncture services Dental services Pharmacy services, and  Vision screening Weekly Bulletin Each Monday morning, SBCUSD publishes the Weekly Bulletin through ParentSquare, where we share a collection of events to keep you connected to SBCUSD and the community. Check out the Weekly Bulletin Mondays at 11 a.m. Highlights of the Week Highlights of key news from the week that will help you stay in the know. Dominguez Elementary School Celebrates Diversity with San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran was the guest of honor Wednesday, May 24 at a Dominguez Elementary School event celebrating diversity.  Students, staff, and families came together at the school’s inaugural multicultural event to celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our vibrant community. Mayor Tran, known for her commitment to inclusivity and community engagement, spoke to students about the importance of cultural diversity and unity within San Bernardino. As the first Asian-American woman to hold the esteemed position of mayor in San Bernardino’s history, she serves as a role model for students, illustrating the power of perseverance, leadership, and embracing one’s heritage. Dominguez Elementary Principal Alejandro Hernandez expressed his excitement about Mayor Tran's participation, saying, “Having Mayor Helen Tran as our guest is a tremendous honor. Her presence inspired our students and reinforced the values of inclusivity and unity that we strive to instill in our school community.”  SBCUSD Celebrates Our Extraordinary Classified Employees        This week was Classified School Employees Week and SBCUSD recognized and honored the truly exceptional classified staff who are key members of our school community. Superintendent Mauricio Arellano kicked off a weeklong recognition on May 22 with his own personal recorded message for SBCUSD classified staff.  Every day, our dedicated classified employees work tirelessly to support and nurture our students, ensuring their success both inside and outside the classroom. SBCUSD is deeply grateful for our classified employees’ outstanding contributions to our school community. We value their contributions and recognize the vital role they play in creating a nurturing and thriving educational environment this week and all year long. Reclassification Ceremony Honors the Achievement of English Learners Congratulations to all the amazing English learner students on reaching a significant milestone in your language journey! On Saturday, May 20, SBCUSD honored the hardworking and dedicated students who have been reclassified as English proficient this school year at an event so large it was held at San Manuel Stadium! From the early days of struggling to communicate in a new language to now confidently expressing themselves in English, these students have proven that with perseverance, anything is possible!  The goal of the Multilingual Programs Department is to reclassify English learner students before, or by the end of, their sixth year in a U.S. school. SBCUSD has reclassified more than 10,000 students over the past several years and a special Reclassification Ceremony is held annually to celebrate this momentous achievement.      SBCUSD Breaks Ground on Welcoming Resource Center    Families joined community leaders, elected officials, and SBCUSD staff at the groundbreaking ceremony for the highly anticipated Welcoming Resource Center on May 24. The center, located at the corner of E and Seventh Streets near downtown San Bernardino, is a $45-million transformative project set to streamline services for families and breathe new life into the city’s core. This state-of-the-art, three-story facility will serve as a hub for supporting and empowering families within our community, fostering a sense of unity and providing essential resources for every child’s educational journey. The project is slated for completion in December 2024. Superintendent Mauricio Arellano told the more than 100 attendees that the District’s goal is to create an environment that fosters collaboration between families, educators, and community organizations, ensuring that our students receive the comprehensive support they need to excel both inside and outside the classroom. “Our Welcoming Resource Center will be so much more than just a building—it will be a symbol of unity and empowerment for San Bernardino,” Arellano said. “It will be a place where families will find not only assistance with enrollment and registration, but also a wide range of services aimed at nurturing and supporting the holistic development of our students. Yes, we’re talking about taking care of the whole child.” Cowboys Rope Solar Challenge Trophy  Cajon High School teacher Roger Light's Auto Tech Team recently won the overall Inland Solar Boat Challenge!  In this labor of love, sport, industry, and community, the Cajon Auto Tech pathway partnered with Andrew Espinoza's Building & Construction pathway and Erick Hendrickson's PSA film crew to finish as the best in the Inland Empire. The solar boat competition takes place annually at Yucaipa Regional Park.  In addition to winning the overall event, the Cajon Cowboy team took first place in the following: Sprint: Winner Slalom: Winner  Endurance: Winner  SBCUSD in the News SBCUSD Celebrates Inaugural Pride Event $45 million center in San Bernardino ‘will be a symbol of unity,’ schools superintendent says A place for all – San Bernardino district breaks ground on $45 million resource center Produced and Distributed by the SBCUSD Communications/Community Relations Department

Friday, May 26 2023

SBCUSD Weekly Bulletin Board - May 22, 2023

Weekly Bulletin Board  |   May 22, 2023     Join SBCUSD for the upcoming  Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) Community Meeting Tuesday, May 23, 2023 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.  777 North F Street, San Bernardino, CA 92410 TOPIC: Draft Review and Questions for the Superintendent Childcare and Interpretation Services are available. Participation is also available via Zoom. Registration is required.  Register at:  https://sbcusd.com/lcapmeeting . For more information, please contact Categorical Programs: (909) 473-2064. Attention 8th Grade Parents! Enroll your children in the 9th Grade Summer Bridge Program To all current 8th Grade Parents, "Have an 8th grader going to high school for the 23-24 school year? Want to ensure they have a successful school year? Enroll them in the 9th grade Summer Bridge program at their high school.  This program will help them get acclimated to their school and give them the skills needed to succeed in their 9th grade classes. Contact your child's 23-24 high school to register them." Before & After School Program Registration is  now open for 2023-24 School Year Concerned about your child's development? Join us for Early Start Information Days Preschool Enrollment is opening for 2023-24 School Year The SBCUSD Child Development Program Preschool Program Enrollment is opening for the 2023-24 school year. Please see the following information if you are interested: For children who are 3 and 4 years old. You must fill out the eligibility list application prior to the enrollment dates by visiting the Child Development Program website Enrollment packets can be picked up after April 3, 2023 at the schools listed below or at the Preschool Office located at 1535 West Highland Avenue, Room 7, San Bernardino, CA 92411. See the attached in enrollment packet for a list of required documents. Incomplete packets will not be accepted. Four year olds and children under protective services have first priority. Enrollment is NOT in a first come first-served bases and does NOT guarantee placement in the program. Enrollment Schedule - 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at the Inland Career Education Center  (1200 North E Street, Building D, San Bernardino, CA 92405): Davidson - April 18 Del Rosa - April 19 Kendall - April 20 Emmerton - April 24 Harmon Room 2/Room 3 - April 25 Hillside - April 26 Hunt - April 27 Inghram - May 1 Jones - May 2 Lankershim - May 3 Lincoln Room 5/Room 6 - May 4 Lytle Creek - May 8 Monterey - May 9 Mt. Vernon - May 10 Muscoy - May 11 Newmark - May 15 Riley - May 16 Roberts - May 17 Roosevelt - May 18 Salinas - May 22 Urbita - May 23 Vermont - May 24 Warm Springs - May 25 Wilson - May 30 Rio Vista - May 31 Important Bulletins from the San Bernardino Public Library

Monday, May 22 2023

SBCUSD Connect Newsletter - May 19, 2023

In the Spotlight Groundbreaking Ceremony For Welcoming Resource Center Marks New Beginning For San Bernardino City Unified School District And Downtown Area The San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) is proud to announce the groundbreaking ceremony for the highly anticipated Welcoming Resource Center, a $45-million transformative project set to streamline services for families and breathe new life into the downtown area. This state-of-the-art, three-story facility will serve as a hub for supporting and empowering families within our community, fostering a sense of unity and providing essential resources for every child’s educational journey. The groundbreaking ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 24 at the site of the future Welcoming Resource Center, located at 736 North E Street in San Bernardino. District officials, community and parent leaders, and members of the public will come together to celebrate this monumental occasion and mark the beginning of a renaissance for the downtown area. The project is slated for completion in December 2024. The Welcoming Resource Center aims to provide a centralized space that offers a wide range of resources and services to students, families, and community members. This dynamic facility will house various departments and programs, including Family Engagement, Enrollment and Placement Services, Specialized Programs, and much more. It was families who lobbied SBCUSD for a place to call their own. The center will provide comprehensive support services for families, such as parent education workshops, counseling, and assistance with navigating school-related processes.  The construction of the Welcoming Resource Center is not only a testament to the San Bernardino City Unified School District's commitment to empowering families but also a catalyst for revitalizing the downtown area, said Superintendent Mauricio Arellano. The District's investment in this project demonstrates its dedication to community development and ensuring that all families have access to the resources necessary for their success. “The Welcoming Resource Center will be a beacon of hope and opportunity for our families,” Arellano said. “This project represents our commitment to providing comprehensive support and resources to empower every student and family in San Bernardino and Highland. We are also excited to contribute to the revitalization of our downtown area.” The groundbreaking ceremony signifies a significant milestone in this ambitious project, and the San Bernardino City Unified School District welcomes the school community to join them in celebrating this momentous occasion.  Celebrate with SBCUSD Who: San Bernardino City Unified School District  What:  Welcoming Resource Center Groundbreaking Ceremony  When: 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 24, 2023 Where: 736 North E Street, San Bernardino Future in Focus Quick tips, brief updates, and reminders about what’s coming up to help families, employees, and our community make the most of our schools. Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) Community Meeting Tuesday, May 23, 2023 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.  777 North F Street, San Bernardino, CA 92410 TOPIC: Draft Review and Questions for the Superintendent Childcare and Interpretation Services are available. Participation is also available via Zoom. Registration is required.  Register at: https://sbcusd.com/lcapmeeting For more information, please contact Categorical Programs at (909) 473-2064. Class of 2023 High School Graduation Information SBCUSD is excited to celebrate our Class of 2023! This school year, about 3,186 SBCUSD students are expected to graduate from District schools. Graduation ceremony details are below: Arroyo Valley High School Graduation: Thursday, June 1, 6 p.m.,  San Manuel Stadium, 280 South E Street, San Bernardino   Cajon High School Graduation: Friday, June 2, 10 a.m., Glen Helen Amphitheater, 2575 Glen Helen Pkwy, San Bernardino, CA 92407 Indian Springs High School Graduation: Thursday, June 1, 6 p.m.,  Indian Springs Athletic Complex Inland Career Education Center  Graduation: Monday, May 22, 11 a.m.,  California Theatre of Performing Arts, 562 West 4th Street, San Bernardino Middle College High School Graduation: Thursday, May 25, 6 p.m.,  San Bernardino Valley College Greek Theater, 701 S. Mt. Vernon Avenue, San Bernardino Pacific High School Graduation: Thursday, June 1, 6 p.m., San Bernardino Valley College, 701 S. Mt. Vernon Avenue, San Bernardino San Andreas High School Graduation: Thursday, June 1, 6 p.m., California Theatre of Performing Arts, 562 West 4th Street, San Bernardino San Bernardino High School Graduation: Thursday, June 1, 2 p.m., San Bernardino Valley College, 701 S. Mt. Vernon Avenue, San Bernardino San Gorgonio High School Graduation: Thursday, June 1, 6 p.m., Phil Haley Stadium, San Gorgonio High School Sierra High School Graduation: Monday, May 22, 6 p.m., San Manuel Stadium, 280 South E Street, San Bernardino Virtual Academy Graduation: Tuesday, May 30, 7 p.m., Indian Springs High School Performing Arts Center, 650 North Del Rosa Drive, San Bernardino We Need Your Input! The 2021-2024 Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) is a three-year plan that outlines the actions and services funded with Supplemental and Concentration State funding. Please take a few minutes to respond to our survey on the Annual Update of the LCAP:  https://sbcusd.com/lcapsurvey . We are nearing the end of the second year of implementation of our three-year plan.  Annually, we request feedback, update metrics, and solicit feedback with regard to our LCAP. The SBCUSD values input received from various Educational Partners, including our students, parents/families, and staff, and uses this feedback throughout the development and monitoring of the LCAP. Input from surveys in the past has been helpful in informing investment priorities included in our plan. Weekly Bulletin Each Monday morning, SBCUSD publishes the Weekly Bulletin through ParentSquare, where we share a collection of events to keep you connected to SBCUSD and the community. Check out the Weekly Bulletin Mondays at 11 a.m.  Highlights of the Week Highlights of key news from the week that will help you stay in the know. Board of Education Honors Thinkwise Credit Union  The Board of Education honored Thinkwise Credit Union with the Outstanding Partner Award at its meeting on Tuesday, May 16. This accolade recognizes the remarkable contributions and unwavering commitment that Thinkwise Credit Union has demonstrated in supporting the San Bernardino City Unified community through scholarships, sponsorships, and more. The Outstanding Community Partner Award is a testament to Thinkwise Credit Union's dedication to fostering positive change and making a lasting impact in the lives of students, teachers, staff, and families in the San Bernardino and Highland area. The credit union has consistently shown exceptional leadership in creating innovative programs, like Bite of Reality, and initiatives that enhance educational opportunities and empower young minds. Belvedere Elementary’s Trilingual Immersion Program is Thriving  Four years after SBCUSD set out to give elementary students the opportunity to become fluent in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese, the Trilingual Immersion Program at Belvedere Elementary School is thriving and growing due to demand.   This innovative program, one of a few offered at a California public school, aims to cultivate a deep understanding and appreciation for languages and cultures, setting students on a path to success in our increasingly interconnected world. The trilingual program is similar to the highly successful Dual Language Immersion Program, with 80 percent of instruction in Spanish, 10 percent in English, and 10 percent in Vietnamese starting in kindergarten. As students progress through the program, English-language instruction is increased by 10 percent each school year, with Vietnamese-language instruction remaining consistent at 10 percent each year. The comprehensive curriculum integrates English, Spanish, and Vietnamese into daily classroom activities, said Belvedere Elementary Principal Erika Rios. And the program offers a balance of language instruction, cultural exploration, and interactive learning experiences to ensure students become confident speakers, readers, and writers in all three languages. High levels of parental involvement and communication are necessary in order to maintain an active parent-school partnership. Ongoing communication between the school and home is required. Parents must attend an informational orientation meeting prior to their children entering the program. Find out more about the Trilingual Immersion Program by calling the Multilingual Programs Department at (909) 891-1013.  Pacific High Breaks Ground on Key Projects  Pacific High School held a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, May 17 to celebrate the start of a major construction project that will bring a biomedical training facility to the campus. The Career Technical Education Biomedical facility is a $10 million dollar endeavor that will serve as a hub of innovation, where students will gain hands-on experience and expertise in the field of biomedical technology, preparing them for careers in healthcare, research, and scientific exploration.  This state-of-the-art facility will rival what is in place at many medical universities around the country, offering our students access to advanced laboratories, cutting-edge hospital equipment, a simulation clinic, and industry-standard technologies, fostering an environment where they can delve into the realms of biology, chemistry, medical imaging, and more. It is slated to be completed in the fall of 2024. Produced and Distributed by the SBCUSD Communications/Community Relations Department

Friday, May 19 2023