Friday Letter - December 8, 2023

DECEMBER 8, 2023 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 6 NO. 17 I am thrilled to share with you the incredible achievements of our students and staff during this past week. It has been a week filled with academic triumphs, literacy milestones, and heartwarming winter celebrations across MDUSD. Our students continue to amaze us with their dedication to learning. They have excelled academically, demonstrating a true commitment to their studies. We've witnessed remarkable literacy achievements, with many students reaching significant reading milestones. Their hard work and enthusiasm for learning are truly inspiring. In the spirit of the winter season, our schools have been buzzing with joyous celebrations. Our students and staff have come together to create festive and inclusive winter events that have brought smiles to faces throughout our district. It's a testament to the strong sense of community that we all share. I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated educators and staff members who have played an integral role in our students' success and in making these celebrations possible. Your unwavering support and commitment to our students are truly commendable. This issue highlights: Spotlight on  Northgate High School's Drama students to share joy of acting with 4th-8th graders in special performances followed by workshops in January District news including Board Briefs about the upcoming School Board meeting on Wednesday, and upcoming meetings and events School news including Ygnacio Valley HS Robotics Club gets $10,000 donation from PG&E  and   Bel Air Elementary makes impressive gains in reading with literacy grant , plus a School Social Media Spotlight on Reading Student news including KTVU to spotlight Ygnacio Valley HS Basketball Scholar Athlete Evan McKnight and a Pioneer Athlete Spotlight on College Park HS athlete Dana Giacomino Staff news featuring Four Business Services employees nominated for a "Magnificent 7 Award," including winner Cindy O'Neill A Parent Spotlight from Strandwood Elementary A Social Media Spotlight on Schools and Student Groups giving back to the community And more! Thank you for your ongoing support, and I look forward to sharing more exciting updates with you in the future. Thank you, Dr. Adam Clark MDUSD Spotlight Northgate HS Drama students to share joy of acting with MDUSD 4th-8th graders in January Northgate HS Drama students share a special moment during their production of "Little Women" in the school's Little Theater.  As the Mt. Diablo Unified School District prepares to expand its arts education with  Proposition 28 funding that starts arriving next spring, Northgate High School's Drama students are getting a head start by offering free performances of "Little Women" to 4th-8th graders in January. Their idea is to inspire a love of acting in elementary and middle school students, creating a pipeline for high school drama programs throughout the District. Northgate HS Drama Artistic Director John Litten is excited to provide his students with the opportunity to spark an interest in drama among younger students, while also challenging them to perform two different versions of "Little Women." On Tuesday, Jan. 23 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon, the cast will perform the same full-length version of the play that has wowed audiences at Northgate HS over the past few weeks, followed by a short workshop with time for Q&A from the student audience. They can accommodate up to 250 audience members in their Little Theater on a first-come, first-served basis by request from MDUSD teachers or administrators.  Then on Jan. 24 and Jan. 25, a small cast is offering "traveling shows" that will visit MDUSD schools and perform a 45-minute version of the play in a classroom or multi-use room. The cast has rehearsed this version in a smaller space with a minimal set so they won't need as much room as they do when they perform on their theater stage. "It's a good reminder that you can take away all the bells and whistles of a production, but you can't take away the heart," said Kayden Ives, 15, who plays Laurie, the boy who lives next door to the four sisters in the play. These touring performances will also be followed by short workshops and are also available on a first-come, first-served basis by request from MDUSD teachers or administrators.  "We had a glorious run!" Litten said. "I was totally blown away by all the talent on stage. We are going to provide an awesome show." And this is only the beginning. Litten hopes to connect with English teachers throughout the District to find out what literature they would like to see brought to life on a stage. He plans to provide schools and teachers who request traveling shows with a questionnaire asking for suggestions. "Based on that data, I can start to create scripts that are customized for MDUSD schools and classrooms," Litten said. "It will open a whole new platform for us while advocating for the Performing Arts." Litten's Drama students are thrilled to share their passion for acting and theater with younger students and are eager to see how MDUSD will use its new arts funding to expand performing arts. Northgate HS is the only District school with a theater, which includes lighting and sound equipment that students operate. They said the equipment could use an upgrade to prepare students who want to pursue theater arts in college with opportunities onstage, in the production crew and as student directors. "I feel so lucky to be in this District," said Bryn Sullivan, a 17-year-old senior who plays Old Ms. Laurence. "We don't just act. We light our own shows. We do our own makeup and costume design." Upgrades to the sound and lighting would benefit everyone who uses the theater, including band, choir and dance students, as well as administrators and others who use it for meetings, cast members said.  But most of all, they want to share their personal stories with younger students. Most got their start in elementary or middle school plays and knew they were hooked. And although Little Women is set in the 1800s, they believe younger students will still be identify with its themes involving siblings, friendships and family dynamics. They said they draw on their own emotions to interpret the characters they play, which brings a timeless quality to the play. And after years of performing and rehearsing together, they form special bonds, said Alex Leahy, a 16-year-old sophomore who plays Amy in the play. "It's the feeling of having a close-knit family," she said. And when the show ends, they share a feeling of triumph, they said.   District News Board Briefs The next MDUSD School Board meeting will be held at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 13 in the District Office Board Room at 1936 Carlotta Drive in Concord. The Board will elect a new President and Vice President at this meeting. Complete meeting details are  here . Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark's Weekly Organizational Update to the Board  which includes detailed District operations reports from Department leaders, is  here . An archive of past reports is here .  Next Fentanyl Awareness and Saving a Life Event is Tuesday, Dec. 12 at Mt. Diablo HS MDUSD's next Fentanyl Awareness and Saving a Life Event will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 12 at Mt. Diablo High School. Check in is at 5:30 p.m. and the event begins at 6 p.m.  Registration is required  so that we know how many Naloxone kits are needed. Registration information is being sent via ParentSquare. The purpose of this event is to share the latest information and data about the dangers of fentanyl and train families and students how to recognize an opioid overdose and administer Narcan/Naloxone to try to save a life. Information about past fentanyl awareness events is here . Free Parent/Teen Anger Class is Wednesday, Dec. 13 at Loma Vista Adult Education Center Mt. Diablo Adult Education is offering a free Parent/Teen Anger Management class at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday that provides strategies and resources for parents and teens to communicate well and maintain positive relationships. It also educates teens on how to address destructive behavior, stress, and anxiety , and many other issues that affect and disrupt teens’ life. The workshop addresses: anger triggers, family communication, anger management techniques, and conflict resolution. Register here .  African American Parent Advisory Committee Kwanzaa Celebration is Thursday in Bay Point The Mt. Diablo Unified School District and the African American Parent Advisory Council presents Kwanzaa Celebration 2023 at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 14th in the Black Family Resource Center at Gateway High School, 235 Pacifica Avenue in Bay Point.  The event will include food, giveaways, and family fun! The seven principles of Kwanzaa are: Umoja = Unity  Kujichagulia = Self-Determination  Ujima = Collective Work and Responsibility  Ujamaa = Cooperative Economics  Nia = Purpose Kuumba = Creativity Imani = Faith  For more information, contact Dr. Lamont Francies at FranciesL@mdusd.org.  Shore Acres Elementary invites MDUSD community to its 1st Pozolada Night on Thursday Shore Acres Elementary invites the MDUSD Community to its first "Pozolada Night" from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 14th in the multiuse room at 351 Marina Road in Bay Point. All schools are invited to join the Shore Acres community for a free potluck style gathering, where they will host a "pozole-off!" (Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup or stew.) The event will include live Mariachi music. Participants are encouraged to wear holiday attire.  Homeless Outreach Program for Education (HOPE)  seeks donations through Friday, Dec. 15 To help provide support and holiday gifts to the District's approximately 545 homeless and foster youth students, MDUSD's Homeless Outreach Program for Education ( HOPE ) is  seeking  holiday donations of gift cards in the amount of $25 or $50  through Friday, Dec. 15th  to be distributed during school and at a HOPE Holiday Fair on Dec. 19. Details about the holiday drive, including flyers in  English  and  Spanish , are  here  and in the attached flyers. School News Y gnacio Valley HS Robotics Program gets $10,000 contribution from PG&E, video feature Ygnacio Valley HS Robotics Club members received a $10,000 check from PG&E on Thursday, when PG&E also previewed a video highlighting the club. The Project 212 Robotics Club at Ygnacio Valley HS is continuing to build momentum, after winning a "Rookie of the Year" award in 2018. It now includes 47 students, with 22 males, 24 females and one non-binary student. Twenty-eight club members are hispanic/Latinx, 12 are Asian, five are white and two are Black/African American. Many of these students would never have decided to join a robotics club or had the confidence to delve into engineering without the encouragement and mentoring of teacher Joseph Alvarico, who was recently named a California Teacher of the Year after previously being named an MDUSD and Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year. During a "Meet and Greet" event on Dec. 7, student leaders in the club talked about how far they have come, and outlined their plans for the upcoming competition season. "Personally, my journey has been transformative," said student Adriel Malapote, who started off helping other team members to build robots and is now a team leader. Like the Northgate HS Drama students profiled above, the YVHS Project 212 students share their love of robotics with students at other schools. They teach robotics in a VEX Camp for middle school students during the summer "to foster the next generation of innovators," said club CFO Justine Latorre. And club COO Sara Venegas said club members "are thrilled to participate in the Sequoia Elementary STEM Fair" on Jan. 6. They have also built strong partnerships with "collaborators" including funders who help support their competitions, including PG&E, which has produced a film featuring the club and Alvarico, which is expected to be available online later this month. After previewing the film during the event, PG&E representatives surprised the club by presenting them with a $10,000 check to help them buy a trailer to transport their robot to competitions. "Your kids are incredible," PG&E representative Josh Reiman said. "It was a privilege to be able to go behind the scenes with them. Putting this story together has been a real treat."    Bel Air Elementary makes impressive gains in reading with literacy grant Bel Air Elementary in Bay Point is one of several schools statewide that has benefited from early literacy grants aimed at improving reading by 3rd grade. Former Principal Robert Humphrey was quoted in a CalMatter story about the grants. He said the school used its grant money — $1 million over three years — to hire reading specialists to work with students in small groups, brought in a new phonics-based curriculum, closely tracked student progress and trained teachers. The results were almost instant. “Students were running up to me saying, ‘Mr. Humphrey, want to hear me read?’ The glimmer in their eyes, the smiles on their faces. I thought, that’s why we’re doing this,” Humphrey said. “It’s been an absolutely amazing turnaround.” He also noticed a decline in behavior problems and an overall improvement in morale, among teachers as well as students. “Walking around campus, you could feel the difference,” he said. He is worried, however, about what happens when the grant money runs out next year. He and the District are looking at ways to continue funding the reading specialists. A June report to the MDUSD School Board about the grant is here . School Social Media Spotlight on Reading Schools engage students in reading through "Book Tastings," sharing books from home!  Click to view the Meadow Homes Elementary , Delta View Elementary and Walnut Acres Elementary tweets featured above. Student News KTVU to spotlight Ygnacio Valley HS Basketball "Scholar Athlete" Evan McKnight Ygnacio Valley High School's Basketball team is attracting media attention in part due to its stellar play last season and one of its star players Evan McKnight, who towers over teammates at 6-foot-11-inches, and is garnering interest from a variety of colleges for his dunks, rebounds and power passes . But even though Evan is a talented player, he has no desire to turn pro after college. He's a "Scholar Athlete" with a 4.0 GPA enrolled in the school's International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme  who wants to pursue a career as a teacher and inspire his future students to become scholar athletes too. Watch for KTVU's "Sports Focus" on Sunday, Dec. 10th after the 49er Football game! Pioneer Athlete Spotlight on College Park HS multi-sport athlete Dana Giacomino Congrats to College Park HS athlete Dana Giacomino, who is featured in a Pioneer Athlete Spotlight  for her softball, wrestling and flag football prowess at the Pleasant Hill school. She played softball through her sophomore year, then gave up softball and concentrated on wrestling as a junior. Then she said, “I heard about the possibility of a flag football team at our school.” And “just because” she again took up a new sport and became a part of the school’s inaugural flag football squad this year. She even earned all-league honors as a center for the Falcons team that reached the championship game of the Diablo Athletic League tournament! Staff News Four Business Services employees nominated for "Magnificent 7 Award," including winner! MDUSD Business Services employees (l-r) Liberato Caparas, DeeDee Blankley, Cynthia O'Neill and Andrea Rose were nominated for the CASBO "Magnificent 7 Outstanding School Employee Award," which O'Neill won for her work as Special Education Transportation Scheduler/Dispatcher. MDUSD is proud that four of its Business Services employees were nominated for “Magnificent 7” awards recognizing them as “Outstanding School Employees” by the California School Business Officials (CASBO) Northern Section, including Special Education Transportation Scheduler/Dispatcher Cynthia O'Neill, who won the award out of a field of 25 nominees from districts in our region! They other nominees were: School Bus Driver Liberato Caparas, Accounting Supervisor DeeDee Blankley,  and Fiscal Analyst Andrea Rose.  “Cindy's dedication to helping with any task that comes her way is a testament to her exceptional work ethic and commitment to her team,” said Transportation Department Director Cris Lepe and Administrative Secretary Julie Carpenter, who nominated O'Neill. " Cindy's journey within the Transportation Department showcases her resilience and adaptability. Starting as a substitute in the shop, she steadily progressed to serve in various roles, from substitute secretary to Dispatcher. She showcased her quick learning ability and comprehensive understanding of the laws, rules, and regulations governing school bus transportation. ” Caparas, who is also known as "Ato," was lauded in his nomination for his unparalleled work ethic. “Dependability is a hallmark of Ato's character," his nomination said. "He is adored by many; thanks to his easy-going demeanor and the respect he extends to everyone he encounters. His willingness to go above and beyond to assist in any capacity is evident in his readiness to operate a van, a large bus, or a wheelchair van, all without a hint of complaint." Blankley's nomination highlighted her continuous on the job learning and the support she gives her staff. “If anyone needs help, Dee Dee has an open door policy for anyone in fiscal," her nomination said. "DeeDee is here to help and pass on her knowledge. She works late and even on weekends."  Rose was praised for her broad interdepartmental experience, including intimate knowledge of Adult Education's inner workings, in her nomination. "She is responsible for her work and pursues a deep understanding of budget accounting," her nomination said. "She is good at doing research and summarizing what she learns and she shares her knowledge with her colleagues. She is considered a very reliable star employee." Congratulations to all! Parent/Family News Parent Volunteer Spotlight from Strandwood Elementary MDUSD is grateful to the countless parent and community volunteers who help our schools and students thrive. This week, we are spotlighting Parent Volunteers at Strandwood Elementary, who were recently featured in the "Roadrunner" PTA Newsletter. An excerpt of the spotlight is below. On behalf of the entire Strandwood Elementary community, we extend our heartfelt thanks to each and every parent volunteer. Your dedication has not gone unnoticed, and we are immensely grateful for the positive energy and enthusiasm you bring to our school. This month we'd like to shine a spotlight on our parent volunteers Raymond Robertson, Pete Dang, Dave Guadagni, Alex Leong and Jin Tsubota.  At the beginning of the school year we received a generous donation of new sit/stand desks, office chairs and office cabinets from T-Mobile.This equipment was used to modernize the front office and classrooms to provide a more comfortable environment for all our hardworking teachers and staff at the strandwood school. Pete, Dave and Jin spent countless hours building, testing and moving the desks and furniture into the building before school year started. In addition, a school PTA project is just wrapping up to upgrade and improve the sound system in the MU. For those that have enjoyed plays, music productions, movies and community events in the past, you may also remember the crackly old speakers and complicated system. Over the last month, Pete, Dave and Alex have installed new speakers, a power amp and music mixer. This will enable many more fun events in the future. It is volunteer work like this that makes our school and community better for all our children and for generations to come. There are many more such projects that the school can use your support for. Thank you again to Ray, Pete, Dave, Alex, and Jin for all your support. Social Meda Spotlight on Schools and Students Giving Back to the Community Schools and student groups adopt families, collect toys and paint inspiring messages Click to view the Social Media posts featured above that show how Valle Verde Elementary, Walnut Acres Elementary, Mt. Diablo High School Cheerleaders and The Jewish Student Union at College Park High School are helping their communities. Important Dates Dec .  12 :   Fentanyl Awareness Event at 6 p.m. (5;30 p.m. check-in) at Mt. Diablo HS (registration is required) . Dec. 13 :   Mt. Diablo Unified School District Governing Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Board Room   Dec.  14:  African American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) Kwanzaa Celebration at 6 p.m. at Gateway HS in Bay Point Dec. 19 :   Parent Advisory Committee meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center Dec. 20 :  End of second quarter, end of first trimester. Last day of school in  2023 Dec. 21-Jan. 8:  Winter School  Recess . All schools closed. District offices closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 Jan. 9:  School resumes Please note: The Superintendent's Organizational Update to the Board can now be found in "Board Briefs" under  District News above. The Friday Letter is written and compiled by MDUSD's Public Information and Community Relations Officer Theresa Harrington Brandt. Reach her at  brandtt@mdusd.org  for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Dec 09 2023

Friday Letter - December 1, 2023

DECEMBER 1, 2023 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 6 NO. 16 This issue highlights: Spotlight on  The International Baccalaureate (IB) program at Ygnacio Valley HS and an 8th grade parent information night on Tuesday District news including Board Briefs about recent and upcoming School Board meetings, and the Organizational Update to the Board; upcoming events including the Adult Education Arts & Crafts Sale is Saturday and the School Community Arts Survey is due Monday,  School news: MDUSD Adult Special Education students participate in the BRIDGE - Department of Rehabilitation "We Can Work" Program ,   Student news: a former Concord HS student who died and will be honored in Rose Parade for his organ donation, Staff news: Ygnacio Valley HS engineering teacher Joseph Alvarico was inducted as a 2024 California Teacher of the Year at the California Department of Education ,  Community news: Light Up the Night Holiday event in  Pleasant Hill on Saturday will feature the College Park HS Choir,    And more! MDUSD Spotlight 8th grade parents invited to learn about prestigious YVHS International Baccalaureate program Ygnacio Valley HS International Baccalaureate Psychology and World History teacher William Kong discusses the factors that go into decision-making with students.  By Theresa Harrington Brandt, MDUSD Public Information Officer The International Baccalaureate (IB) program at Ygnacio Valley High School in Concord provides a world-class education to juniors and seniors who want to challenge themselves by thinking critically and deeply about what they're learning, while exploring a range of subjects through a curriculum that prepares them well for college. It is open to any student who attends Ygnacio Valley HS, including those who transfer to YVHS from other schools. Parents and guardians of 8th-graders throughout the District are invited to an Information Night about the YVHS IB program from 6-7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 5th at Oak Grove Middle School, 2050 Minert Road in Concord, to find out about its unparalleled advantages as they consider the best path for their student's education.  YVHS offers the only IB College Preparatory Program in Contra Costa County, which has significant advantages over the Advanced Placement (AP) programs offered at other high schools. Students earn college credit by taking “IB Exams” that include projects – and they also get the same bump in their Grade Point Average as they would with AP courses. The school provides the internationally recognized IB Diploma Programme – which includes core required courses and six subject areas - as well as the option for students to take selected IB courses if they are enrolled in other programs at the school such as career pathways. It emphasizes " learner profile " traits that are stressed in all IB programs throughout the world, including the Sequoia Elementary program in MDUSD. These traits include: inquiry, critical thinking, and communications skills; self-confidence, global mindfulness, and caring among students. Monte Gardens Elementary and Oak Grove Middle School are also piloting the curriculum as "candidate" IB schools.  Program Specialist Carissa Weintraub, who helped launch the program at the school, said the program not only helps students get into college, but it also prepares them to excel in their postsecondary education by giving them a taste of college-level work while they’re still in high school. She said the program hopes to expand to the point that every YVHS student takes at least one IB course before graduation and all teachers at the school are trained in IB teaching strategies that could benefit every student no matter what class they are taking. She encourages students from outside the YVHS attendance area to transfer to the school as freshmen and apply to the IB program early to ensure they are on track to complete it. Students in the program said they appreciate the academic rigor of the courses and the guidance they get from their teachers, as well as the personal choices they get to make about the projects they pursue. Read more . Claire McKnight (left) and Luis Trinidad (center) show sketches they made in IB Visual Arts class and junior Josue Ramos works on an essay in IB Psychology (right). District News Board Briefs The next MDUSD School Board meeting will be held at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 13 in the District Office Board Room at 1936 Carlotta Drive in Concord. The Board will elect a new President and Vice President at this meeting. Complete meeting details will be available here after 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8th. Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark's Weekly Organizational Update to the Board  which includes detailed District operations reports from Department leaders, is  here . An archive of past reports is here .  The Mt. Diablo Unified School Board formalized the District's La nd Acknowledgement at its Nov. 8th meeting and agreed to place it on all Board agendas.  A Land Acknowledgment  is a formal statement that recognizes and respects Indigenous Peoples as traditional stewards of the land we are on and the enduring relationship that exists between Indigenous Peoples and their traditional territories. MDUSD's Land Acknowledgement states: We recognize that the Mt Diablo Unified School District sits on the territory of the Confederated Villages of Lisjan, the ancestral and unceded land of the Bay Miwok and Northern Yokut, the successors of the sovereign Verona Band of Contra Costa County.  As members of the MDUSD community, it is vitally important that we not only recognize the history of the land on which we learn, but also, we recognize that the land we inhabit and learn on is the ancestral land of these people who are alive and flourishing members of MDUSD and broader Bay Area communities today. MDUSD Adult Education's Annual Open House and Art & Crafts Sale is Saturday, Dec. 2 MDUSD Adult Education's Annual Open House and Art & Crafts Sale will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2 at the Pleasant Hill Education Center, 1 Santa Barbara Road in Pleasant Hill, where adult students will present over 1,000 original works of art! Details are here and in the attached flyer . Winter Adult Education Lifelong Learning Courses in December Mt. Diablo Adult Education's Lifelong Learning program offers three classes in December, including two that are holiday-themed. You can learn to make Tasty Party Appetizers and Potluck Dishes Thursday, Dec. 2; Creative Floral Designs Thursday, December 14; and explore woodworking during Woodturning Independent Projects Open Shop on Friday mornings. Details are in the December newsletter here . School Community Arts survey is due Monday, December 4th  This spring, each school in Mt. Diablo Unified will be receiving funds from State Proposition 28 with the goal of increasing access to the arts at all school sites. To help develop priorities for spending, the we are inviting District parents and guardians to fill out a survey in regards to their school communities. The results will be shared with principals to determine the best use of the restricted funds. We ask that parents and guardians fill out a separate survey for each school their children attend. The survey is open until Monday, December 4th.   We thank parents and guardians for their support in filling out the surveys, which are linked below in English, Spanish and Farsi, and which have also been sent to families via ParentSquare. Survey in English Survey in Spanish   Survey in Farsi - Please return to Kellie Hoover at HooverK@mdusd.org More information is in the Visual and Strategic Arts Plan approved by the MDUSD School Board on November 8th, and the PowerPoint Presentation to the Board. Next Fentanyl Awareness and Saving a Life Event is Tuesday, December 12 at Mt. Diablo High MDUSD's next Fentanyl Awareness and Saving a Life Event will be held on Tuesday, December 12 at Mt. Diablo High School. Check in is at 5:30 p.m. and the event begins at 6 p.m.  Registration is required  so that we know how many Naloxone kits are needed. Registration information is being sent via ParentSquare. The purpose of this event is to share the latest information and data about the dangers of fentanyl and train families and students how to recognize an opioid overdose and administer Narcan/Naloxone to try to save a life. Parents and their students are encouraged to attend. Information about past fentanyl awareness events is here . Homeless Outreach Program for Education (HOPE)  seeks holiday donations through Dec. 15th To help provide support and holiday gifts to the District's approximately 545 homeless and foster youth students, MDUSD's Homeless Outreach Program for Education ( HOPE ) is  seeking  holiday donations of gift cards in the amount of $25 or $50  through Friday, Dec. 15th  to be distributed during school and at a HOPE Holiday Fair on Dec. 19, where families will receive more gifts, such as new shoes, food bags, haircuts, gift cards, and more. Details about the holiday drive, including flyers in English and Spanish , are here and in the attached flyers. School News Adult students participate in BRIDGE - Department of Rehabilitation "We Can Work" Program Alexis Thompson and Edgar Romero organize pavers at Outdoor Supply Hardware (above). Kyra McKinley stocks merchandise at Grocery Outlet (below). Amy Gonzalez and Ronnel Ronnel San Juan stock shelves at Grocery Outlet (above) and Scorpius Huth works in the produce department (below). By Candace Ng, Bridge Program Principal Mt. Diablo Adult Special Education  Bridge Program teacher Gianna Thompson recently won a "You Make a Difference" Award for her amazing work in fostering a relationship between the District and the Department of Rehabilitation. Thanks to her hard work, several of her students now have the opportunity to get paid work experience in the community through the Department of Rehabilitation's "We Can Work" program.  In October, BRIDGE's first cohort of 15 students at three different sites began working on Tuesdays and Thursdays with staff support. They work 6 hours a week and earn slightly more than minimum wage. More students are expected to start working in January. Student worker. Students participating in the program have nothing but good things to say about their experience. Erin McClanahan shared that she likes earning a paycheck and is saving up to buy something special. Alexis Thompson, who works at Outdoor Supply Hardware, said, "I like organizing things and putting things on shelves." Kyra McKinley, who works at Grocery Outlet, said, “I like work, the people are pretty much very nice. It makes me feel like I’m getting a good experience.” Amy Gonzalez shared similar sentiments about her work at Grocery Outlet and added, "I like to work. I like getting more experience." Gianna Thompson is pleased that her students have this new opportunity. "It has been amazing to see the growth of our students and their confidence as they become more independent at their work sites," she said. "This partnership is not only important for the students' experience, it also gives our local community a chance to see our students in action. Our goal is to help students feel more equipped to apply and succeed in the workforce when they age out of MDUSD and to create connections with our local businesses. Students are working at Concord's Grocery Outlets and Outdoor Supply Hardware, and Concord Feed in Pleasant Hill.  Student News Concord HS student who died in 2020 to be honored in Rose Parade for organ donation Former Concord High School student Joseph Barratt, who died after being struck by a hit-and-run driver in 2020, will be honored in the Rose Parade on January 1st for his decision to donate his organs when he got his driver's license, shortly before he was killed. Several news organizations including  KTVU have reported on the posthumous recognition he will receive along with Ted Jung of San Francisco, who received Joe's heart in a transplant that saved his life.  On New Year's Day, Jung will ride on the OneLegacy Donate Life Rose Parade float, which will be adorned with Joe Barratt's picture for millions to see. Joe's mother, Leslie Barratt, says some of the 1,388 days since she lost her son have been unbearable, but knowing that the world will learn about her son's gift will be a gift to her.  "I am so grateful and feel so blessed that Joe has been chosen to be a face for the Donate Life float at the Rose Parade," she said. "A grieving parent's worst fear is that their child will be forgotten." Both families say they hope others will follow Joe's example and check the donor box. Joe ended up donated organs to four different people. Concord HS Principal Julene MacKinnon, who was not the principal in 2020, said: "Joe Barratt being honored at the 2024 Donate Life Rose Parade on New Year's Day is a beautiful way to recognize Joe's impact on the life of another human being. Many students and staff think of Joe's kind heart and loving spirit, and how Joe brightened the room with his smile. Honoring Joe is very fitting for the way he would always lend a hand to others." Staff News Joseph Alvarico of Ygnacio Valley HS inducted as a 2024 California Teacher of the Year Ygnacio Valley HS engineering teacher Joseph Alvarico (right) was  inducted as one of five California 2024 Teachers of the Year on Dec. 1 at the California Department of Education along with (l-r) Gregory Wolf, Andrew Lewis, Hannah Rodriguez, and Casey Cuny - who all teach in Southern California. Mr. Alvarico was the ONLY teacher in Northern California to earn this recognition, after being named a Mt. Diablo Unified Teacher of the Year last spring and a Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year last fall. “Congratulations to these five remarkable educators, who all display deep commitment and innovation in their work—all while supporting their students through a difficult time,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, when the five state Teachers of the Year were first  announced in October. “They make profound differences in their students’ lives and provide both inspiration and the practical tools that students need to succeed. They’re all prime examples of the exceptional work going on in California schools.” As a Filipino immigrant, Mr. Alvarico has attracted media attention from both local and international news outlets, including those in the Philippines. His most recent television interview was with Filipino news outlet ABS CBN News, which visited his engineering classrooms at Ygnacio Valley HS in Concord and interviewed him and his students in both English and Tagalog. You can see the interview  here .                                                                                                      Community News Light Up the Night Holiday event in Pleasant Hill on Saturday will feature College Park HS Choir The College Park HS Choir will perform from 6:30-7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2nd during Pleasant Hill's "Light Up the Night" event on the Main Stage at the end of Crescent Drive downtown.  The family event from 4:30-7:30 p.m. will feature a tree lighting from 5;30-5:50 p.m., as well as crafts, booths, cookies, train rides, hot chocolate, and visits with Santa.   Performances will include: Main stage (north end of Crescent): 5:30 - 5:50     Break for tree lighting 5:55 - 6:25     Studio A Dancers 6:30 - 7:00     College Park HS Choir 7:05 - 7:30     Victorian Carolers Kids Stage  - (south end of Crescent near Crescent Plaza): 5:50 - 6:35      Brian Scott Magician  6:45 - 7:30      Firelight Shadow Theater More information is here . Important Dates Dec. 2 :  Mt. Diablo Adult Education Art & Craft Sale   from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Pleasant Hill Adult Education Center Dec. 5:  IB Information Night for 8th grade parents and guardians at 6 p.m. at Oak Grove MS;  Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC)  meeting /holiday party  at 7 p.m. in the District Office Board Room Dec .  12 :   Fentanyl Awareness Event at 6 p.m. (5;30 p.m. check-in) at Mt. Diablo HS (registration is required) . Dec. 13 :   Mt. Diablo Unified School District Governing Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Board Room   Dec.  14:  African American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC)  meeting at 6 p.m. at Gateway HS and Oak Grove MS Dec. 19 :   Parent Advisory Committee meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center Dec. 21-Jan. 8:  Winter School Recess . All schools closed. District offices closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Please note: The Superintendent's Organizational Update to the Board can now be found in "Board Briefs" under  District News above. The Friday Letter is written and compiled by MDUSD's Public Information and Community Relations Officer Theresa Harrington Brandt. Reach her at  brandtt@mdusd.org  for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Dec 02 2023

Friday Letter - November 17, 2023

NOVEMBER 17, 2023 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 6 NO. 15 A message from Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark Dear MDUSD Parents and Guardians, I am writing to express my gratitude for your continued support and commitment to your child’s education. This week has been a great success for our students, teachers, and staff. We have seen tremendous growth in our students’ academic and social-emotional skills, and we are proud of their achievements. We recognize that this success would not have been possible without your unwavering support and dedication. Your involvement in your child’s education is critical to their success, and we are grateful for your partnership. We look forward to continuing to work together to provide the best possible education for our students. Remain up to date with our latest spotlights, news, and events in this edition of the Friday Letter and be sure to follow our social media platforms.  This week's Friday Letter spotlights:  Ruby Bridges Walk to School events  at Silverwood Elementary and other schools, as well as  District news including our Homeless Outreach Program for Education (HOPE) holiday drive ,  school news including Mt. Diablo Adult Education's COVID/flu Vaccine Clinic was a success  and Diwali celebrations at 4 elementary schools,   student news featuring College Now and Ygnacio Valley HS Education Academy students rated "exceptional" for Project Citizen presentations  and  High School string musicians perform in MDUSD Orchestra Festival ,  alumni news about a College Park HS alum and water polo Olympian inducted into the Stanford Athletics Hall of Fame,  staff news including Food Services Director participates in APEC roundtable hosted by Canadian Prime Minister and social media shout-outs for our wonderful custodians , plus  community news highlighting D iversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts in Pleasant Hill  and "Giving Tuesday" campaigns to benefit MDUSD students .  You'll also find important dates and our Organizational Update to the Board. PLEASE NOTE: There will be no Friday Letter or Superintendent's Organizational Update next week due to the School Recess. Enjoy time with your family during the school recess. Sincerely, Dr. Adam Clark MDUSD Spotlight Silverwood Elementary among schools participating in Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day Silverwood Elementary teacher Chiara Falcone (back) stands with students and volunteers passing out Ruby Bridges Walk to School bracelets, stickers, flags and bags (above). 3rd-grader Jocelyn and her mom Isabel Becerra walk to school (below left). Teacher Terri Huston created a Ruby Bridges Bitmoji resource library (below). To remember the courageous, historic, and nation-changing “walk” of  Ruby Bridges in November of 1960, and to promote healthy living, Silverwood Elementary held its first Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day on Friday, Nov. 17th. Silverwood was one of several District schools to participate in the national event, which is regularly held on Nov. 14th to commemorate the anniversary of the day 6-year-old Ruby Bridges became the first African American child to integrate schools when she walked into the formerly whites-only William Frantz Elementary School in Louisiana. Schoolchildren around the country celebrate her accomplishment by walking to their own schools, reading books about Ruby Bridges and talking about ongoing efforts to fight racism and discrimination. Organized by teachers Chiara Falcone and Shelly Harrison, Silverwood students who walked to school received Ruby Bridges flags, bracelets, stickers and backpacks. The idea for the walk-to-school event was generated by the Silverwood School Site Council when goals were being developed for the school's Single Plan for Student Achievement, said Principal Bruce Burns. The walk was held on Friday because the PTA had previously scheduled a Turkey Trot fundraiser on Dec. 14th. "The School Site Council provided funding for Silverwood to purchase a few dozen Ruby Bridges books for teachers and students to read and learn about Ruby's amazing and courageous story," Mr. Burns said, adding that teacher Terri Huston also developed "an incredible online resource for all staff, students, and parents, which includes virtual books and videos about Ruby Bridges."   Isabel Becerra and her 3rd grade daughter Joslyn were among the parents and students who participated in the walk. Joslyn said she enjoyed walking and she appreciated Ruby Bridges' courage. "She was brave in walking to the school when the white people were yelling at her," Joslyn said. Ms. Falcone, who teaches 4th grade, said the school wanted to honor Ruby Bridges, who was a "courageous world-changer with integrity." Nicole Mora and her husband participated in the walk with their kindergarten twins. "It was great to see all the people doing this," she said. "The kids were excited. I think it's a great message." Escorted by the Concord Police who blocked some roads from cars for the event, Mr. Burns estimated that about 200 students and 100 parents walked to school in recognition of and to celebrate the bravery and determination Ruby Bridges showed us more than 60 years ago. "I'm thrilled with the turnout, the excitement and the positive feedback," he said, adding that the school plans to continue this tradition next year.  Click on the images below to see social media posts from some other District schools that participated in the national event. Fair Oaks Elementary Principal Carolyn Hull  read  "I Am Ruby Bridges" to the entire school (above). Valley View MS staff and students " showed unity " in their "pledge for peace and inclusion" in their school below. Gregory Gardens Elementary Principal Katie Koontz join ed students to "participate in this important day and fight against inequities in our schools" (above). Valle Verde Elementary Principal Mignon Perkins prepared to welcome students to  celebrate  Ruby Bridges "and learn how she made history" below. District News No school next week due to the Fall Break All MDUSD schools will be closed next week, Monday, Nov. 21 through Friday, Nov. 25, for the Fall School Recess.  District offices will be open Monday, Nov. 21 through Wednesday, Nov. 22, but will be closed Thursday, Nov. 23 and Friday, Nov. 24 for the Thanksgiving Holidays. All schools and District offices will reopen on Monday, Nov. 27th. Homeless Outreach Program for Education (HOPE)  seeks holiday donations The Mt. Diablo Unified School District recognizes November as "California Runaway and Homeless Youth Prevention Month." The District "has a significant and growing population of homeless youth" that has grown to more than 500 students in 2023-24, according to a  resolution  adopted by the Governing Board . To help provide support and holiday gifts to the District's 540 homeless students and 61 foster youth students, MDUSD's Homeless Outreach Program for Education ( HOPE ) is seeking holiday donations of gift cards in the amount of $25 or $50 with the amounts clearly marked, or monetary contributions, through Friday, Dec. 15th . "We just passed the 600 mark for our combined programs," said Program Specialist Rosie Reid. "This is up 49% from last year at this time. And we are far lower on donations at this point."  Gift cards can be mailed or delivered to: Willow Creek Center, Mt. Diablo HOPE, 1026 Mohr Lane, A1, Concord, CA 94519. Tax deductible monetary donations can also be made by sending a check to the above address or via Venmo @MDUSDHOPE. Click to see flyers in English or Spanish . Direct questions to (925) 682-8000 x6242 or hope@mdusd.org. New dual enrollment (early college credit) opportunities for high school students this spring MDUSD, in partnership with Diablo Valley College (DVC), is offering students additional opportunities to earn early college credit this spring.  The classes will be offered at Mt. Diablo High School, Ygnacio Valley High School, and Concord High School, but they are open to all high school students in the district.   The classes are below:  PH 130 -- Intro to Community & Public Health at Mt. Diablo High School ECE 124 -- Child Development & Psychology at Ygnacio Valley High School ArtDM 214 -- Intro to Graphic Design at Concord High School CONST 114 -- Print Reading at Concord High School MDUSD is holding workshops from November 27 to December 14 at Mt. Diablo High School, Ygnacio Valley High School and Concord High School to support students with enrolling at DVC and registering for the classes.  There is a QR code on the attached flyer to sign up for these sessions. International Baccalaureate (IB) program information night for 8th grade families Dec. 5  8th grade parents and guardians are invited to an International Baccalaureate (IB) Information Night from 6-7 p.m. Tuesday, December 5th at Oak Grove Middle School, 2050 Minert Road in Concord facilitated by the Ygnacio Valley High School and Oak Grove Middle School IB coordinator.   We hope your student's 8th grade year is off to a great start and you’re eagerly looking at the exciting high school journey ahead. As you consider the best path for your student's education, we're thrilled to share the unparalleled advantages of our International Baccalaureate (IB) program at Ygnacio Valley High School. YVHS is the only IB College Preparatory Program in Contra Costa County. It has significant advantages over the Advanced Placement (AP) programs that are offered at all other high schools. Please join the IB night event at Oak Grove Middle School to learn more about the IB program. A Spanish translator and translation equipment will be provided. School News Mt. Diablo Adult Education's COVID/Flu Vaccine Clinic was a success Mt. Diablo Adult Education students assist at the COVID/Flu Vaccine Clinic sponsored by Contra Costa Health on Nov. 4th. On November 4th, Mt. Diablo Adult Education hosted a COVID/Flu Vaccine Clinic sponsored by Contra Costa Health. The event was a huge success, with 460 vaccinations given out to local community members. Mt. Diablo Adult Education's Medical Assistant and Dental Assistant students were on hand to help guide everyone through the process and to provide complementary blood pressure checks. This has become an annual event for Mt. Diablo Adult Education's Career Technical Education Center in partnership with Contra Costa Health. More information about Mt. Diablo Adult Education's Career Technical Education programs is here .  Four elementary schools celebrate Diwali with art, food, and books Click on the Social Media posts below to see how Gregory Gardens, Monte Gardens, Walnut Acres and Strandwood elementary schools celebrated Diwali with art projects, food tasting, and book reading to learn more about the Hindu festival of lights that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. Monte Gardens Elementary celebrated with chalk art (above). Student News College Now, Ygnacio Valley HS Ed. Academy students rated "exceptional" for presentations The College Now program at Diablo Valley College (DVC) and the Education Academy at Ygnacio Valley High School recently found out that students who were seniors in those programs last spring were rated "exceptional" for presentations they submitted to  The 2023 Project Citizen Research Program National Showcase . The College Now seniors (above left) shared their ideas about incorporating nature in MDUSD school settings and the positive impact this could have on student learning to a panel that included Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark and Board Members Debra Mason, Cherise Khaund, Linda Mayo and Erin McFerrin. Social Studies teacher Erica Shaw submitted the presentations and their written analysis with Project Citizen, along with the feedback Dr. Clark and the Board members provided to the students.  The Ygnacio Valley HS students (above right) focused on providing student voice to policy decisions made on their school campus. Social Studies teacher Bryan Shaw said the students presented their project in the school library as their first semester government final. Both student teams received a score of exceptional representing the "Western States" in the program, which is sponsored by the Center for Civic Education. Congratulations to these graduates and thank you to Erica and Bryan Shaw for providing our students with these outstanding opportunities! (Erica and Bryan were featured in a previous  Friday Letter  for their acceptance into the prestigious James Madison Memorial Fellowship program to pursue master's degrees in U.S. history with an emphasis on the U.S. Constitution.) High School string musicians perform in MDUSD Orchestra Festival on Nov. 16th String musicians from College Park (left), Northgate (right), Concord, and Ygnacio Valley high schools, as well as the MDUSD Honor Orchestra, performed in the 2023 Orchestra Festival on Nov. 16th. The musicians played violins, violas, cellos and basses, with all four schools represented in the Honor Orchestra. Bravo! Alumni News College Park HS alum and water polo Olympian inducted into Stanford Athletics Hall of Fame   The Mt. Diablo Unified School District and College Park HS are very proud to see our 2008 alumna Melissa Seidemann inducted into Stanford's Hall of Fame for her excellence in Water Polo! In this previous Friday Letter , you can find an article about the 3-time Olympic Gold Medalist and see a video message from her to the MDUSD Community when she visited her high school alma mater and inspired our men's and women's water polo athletes (fifth article from top)! A Stanford press release about her induction into the Hall of Fame along with other former Stanford athletes is here . Congrats! Staff News Food Services Director participates in APEC roundtable hosted by Canadian Prime Minister MDUSD's Food and Nutrition Services Director Alexandra Emmott, had the honor of representing the District and the California Universal Meals Program in a roundtable on Food Affordability and Innovation hosted by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (left) and the California Secretary of Agriculture Karen Ross (right) on Nov. 15. The roundtable (center) was part of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in San Francisco. It also included CEOs of Agriculture and Technology companies, the US Ambassador for Canada, California Department of Agriculture, and some industry representatives from Health Care and Food Service. It was held at Arcadio's warehouse within the SF Produce Market, which provides some of the fruits and vegetables served to MDUSD students. Congrats to Emmott on this honor and thanks for representing MDUSD so well! Appreciation for our wonderful custodians with thank you notes, brunch and a helping hand ! Click on these tweets to see how much our custodians are appreciated!  At Walnut Acres Elementary (above left), students wrote heartfelt thank you notes and cards to custodians Francisco and Sandra for #ThankfulThursday! On that same Thursday, MDUSD's Maintenance & Operations Dept. hosted a brunch and lunch for school custodians and lead workers to show their HUGE appreciation! And at Sun Terrace Elementary, a student gave "awesome" custodian "Tito Bobby" a helping hand! Thank you to all our custodians for your tireless work! Community News Pleasant Hill to hold "Unity Walk," Community Conversation on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Unity Walk The Pleasant Hill community is invited to join together on Saturday, November 18 to show that the city stands United Against Hate. As part of United Against Hate Week (November 12-18, 2023), the City’s Diversity Commission will hold a walk to show Pleasant Hill’s commitment to inclusion, equity, and diversity. Click here for more information. Community Conversation on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) The Pleasant Hill community is invited to join in on a Community Conversation on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from 7- 8 p.m. on  Tuesday, November 28 . Be a part of the conversation at the Pleasant Hill Library, 2 Monticello Blvd, as we brainstorm ways to further Pleasant Hill’s commitment to DEI initiatives and how to make Pleasant Hill a more welcoming and inclusive place.  Community Conversations are a way for your voice to be heard on the major issues facing the City and our neighborhoods. "Giving Tuesday" campaigns to benefit MDUSD students Both the Mt. Diablo Education Foundation and the Mount Diablo Music Education Foundation are participating in “Giving Tuesday” campaigns on Nov. 28th to provide garden education and music programs to MDUSD students.  Mt. Diablo Education Foundation The Mt. Diablo Education Foundation has launched a Giving Tuesday campaign to raise $12,000 for garden science programs throughout Mt. Diablo Unified School District. Every dollar donated will support student opportunities for hands-on science in the garden and for nutrition programs. Learn more at mdedf.org or  facebook.com/mdedf.org .  Eva Solis, garden educator at Valhalla Elementary shared that “one of the best parts about this program is trying new foods. Many parents were amazed when their kids came home excited about eating fresh garden vegetables with hummus!” The funding also helps make new exciting projects possible, such as the Rio Vista Food Forest. Rio Vista Elementary is located in Bay Point, where some local neighborhoods have been described as a "food desert" by local news channels because at least one-third of the population lives more than a half-mile from the nearest grocery store. Donations can help transform this “food desert” to a “food forest,” led by students and making produce accessible to the whole community. “I want my kids to be able to come out to nature and learn about where food grows,” said parent and business sponsor Juan Carlos Sanchez. “It’s also such a good opportunity for the children to enjoy working outdoors.”  Mount Diablo Music Education Foundation The Mount Diablo Music Education Foundation is participating in Giving Tuesday on November 28th.  Mount Diablo Music Education Foundation is a non-profit, tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) public charity established in 2009.  It is administered by an all-volunteer board and is dedicated to ensuring all students in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District have equal access to quality Music Education. Since 2011, MDMEF has given over $217,000.00 in program expenditures, including Grants and Programs to schools. The current grants are supporting, 1) Sustaining Current Programs, 2) Technology and Equipment Requests, and 3) Transportation.  All donations received will go towards the Grants programs.  For more information, visit the foundation website at www.mdmef.org .   Important Dates Nov . 20-24 :   School  Recess ; Schools closed all week, District Offices closed Nov. 23-24 Nov.  30 : District English Learner Advisory Committee ( DELAC )  meeting   at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 2 :  Mt. Diablo Adult Education Art & Craft Sale   from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Pleasant Hill Adult Education Center Dec. 5:  IB Information Night for 8th grade parents and guardians at 6 p.m. at Oak Grove MS;  Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC)  meeting /holiday party  at 7 p.m. in the District Office Board Room Dec. 13 :   Mt. Diablo Unified School District Governing Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Board Room   Dec.  14:  African American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) meeting at 6 p.m. at Gateway HS and Oak Grove MS Weekly Organizational Update Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark publishes detailed District operations reports in our weekly Organizational Update to the Board. Click  here  or on the image below to view this week’s update from department leaders, which is also  archived  for reference on the District's website. The Friday Letter is written and compiled by MDUSD's Public Information and Community Relations Officer Theresa Harrington Brandt. Reach her at  brandtt@mdusd.org  for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Nov 18 2023

Friday Letter - November 10, 2023

NOVEMBER 10, 2023 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 6 NO. 14 NOTE: This week's Friday Letter is being sent out on Thursday, November 9, since Friday, November 10 is the Veterans Day holiday. This issue highlights:  In an early Veterans Day celebration, Ygnacio Valley HS dedicates two benches in honor of six alumni who died in the Vietnam War District news including no school Friday, November is California Runaway and Homeless Youth Prevention Month, Board approves arts plan and 2024-25 calendar, Tech teachers learn how to better engage students with Promethean panels, and Strandwood Elementary creates sand art for Diwali next week School news featuring Northgate HS opens a new Wellness Center to help relieve stress and anxiety on campus Student news spotlighting MDHS football running back Herschel Turner breaking a record as the team heads into the NCS playoffs on Friday Staff recognition for CA Teacher of the Year Joseph Alvarico includes "rock star" profile on KTVU, kudos from the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco and a radio interview in the Philippines Community news about Free Dental Care available in Walnut Creek on Dental Outreach Day on Nov. 18th And more! Ygnacio Valley HS dedicates two benches in honor of six alumni who died in the Vietnam War During an early Veterans Day Celebration on Thursday, Nov. 9th, Ygnacio Valley HS dedicated two memorial benches in honor of six alumni who died in the Vietnam War.  The alumni honored were:  Randall Bingham Choate (July 25, 1949 - August 3, 1968) James Kevin Koehler (May 2, 1947 - June 11, 1967) Daniel Lee McKechnie (November 24, 1947 – November 25, 1968) Willard Edward Nelson (Oct. 16, 1948 - Jan. 30, 1968) Ronnie Cardoza Pimentel (January 17, 1948 – September 1, 1968) John Charles Sterling (June 15, 1949 – December 15, 1968). Aluma Heidi Coffman Shearer (class of 1972) coordinated the dedication with Principal Jonathan Pike, who is an Army veteran and CA National Guard member. Details about Pike's military service are in a Friday Letter Staff Profile  here .  Shearer read brief comments about each of the alumni and told current students they should enjoy their time in high school, which she considers the best years of her life. Pike said after the ceremony that he wanted to honor Ygnacio Valley alumni who have served, similar to himself. "These ones didn't come home and they need to be recognized and not forgotten," he said. Since he has become principal, Pike said he has enjoyed connecting with alumni, who have been active in beautification projects at the school. "The Ygnacio Valley alumni have a lot of affinity with the school to come back, and I want to honor them," he said. Dan Hartwig, the brother of James Kevin Koehler, told students that James died not long after his 20th birthday, just a few years after he had graduated from high school. Hartwig said afterward that he appreciated the memorial. "I think it's wonderful that Ygnacio Valley High School and the Mt. Diablo school district and Mr. Pike and Heidi have contributed not only these benches, but all the class benches," he said. "It's a tough time of year for my family thinking about how we haven't had James in our life for more than 50 years. But this is an honor and we're very proud." Below are photos and information about the alumni who were honored. District News No school Friday due to the Veterans Day Holiday MDUSD schools and District Offices will be closed on Friday, Nov. 10, in honor of the Veterans Day Holiday, which is Saturday, Nov. 11th. School resumes Monday, Nov. 13th. Thank you to Veteran's who have served our country.  Veterans Day ceremonies for the community will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11 in Todos Santos Plaza, Concord and at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11 at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek .   November is California Runaway and Homeless Youth Prevention Month The Mt. Diablo Unified School District recognizes November as "California Runaway and Homeless Youth Prevention Month." The MDUSD Governing Board adopted a  resolution  that says, in part: "The Mt. Diablo Unified School District has a significant and growing population of homeless youth, with 512 students identified as homeless for the 2023-2024 school year as of November 3, 2023. This represents a 56% increase in the number of students identified from the same date in 2022-2023." In addition, "Mt. Diablo Unified School District has identified a need for increased attention and support for homeless youth through its Local Control and Accountability Plan Goal 4 and the addition of a program specialist to oversee homeless youth programs district-wide, which has led to improved identification and support for homeless youth." During a brief presentation at the Nov. 8 Board meeting, Program Specialist Rosie Reid said the number of homeless students in MDUSD had increased since Nov. 3. More information about the District's Homeless Program for Education (HOPE) and Foster Youth Services is  here . MDUSD Board appoints CPHS Vice Principal, approves Arts Plan and 2024-25 calendar The MDUSD Board met on Nov. 8th appointed Michael Miller as a Vice Principal at College Park HS; approved a Visual and Performing Arts Strategic  Plan , 2024-25  calenda r ,   land acknowledgement , and instructions to negotiate a districtwide Project Labor  Agreement ,  among other items. The complete agenda is  here . Tech teachers learn how to better engage students with Promethean panels Now that nearly every teacher in the District has received a high-tech "Promethean ActivPanel" to use in their classrooms, tech teachers from each site known as "Tech Integration Leaders," or TILS, are getting in-depth training on how to use all of the special features of the panels that they can share with others at their schools to better engage students in their learning. On Nov. 7, about 45 tech leaders spent the day learning how to split their screens to show the work of several students at once, make a wolf appear to be in the room with them, create animations to liven up science lessons, and more! In between watching lessons, they got a chance to collaborate with each other and try out what they learned. Erin Vallejo, MDUSD's Educational Technology Coordinator, said the District wants to be sure teachers are using technology to supplement their curriculum, not just because it's fun. The District has hired two Promethean trainers to work with teachers all year to help them use the panels to their potential. "They were excited to know they could do much more than what they thought," said Promethean trainer Chantel Caldwell, explaining that the first hurdle is getting teachers to understand that these panels are much more than just TV screens or computer monitors.  Sequoia Elementary teacher Mona Ricard was awed by the  lesson that showed them how to go online to search for a 3D wolf, then "place" it in the room with them. "That was the 'wow' factor," she said, adding that she also appreciated "flip charts" that could be downloaded and layered on the screen, with teachers able to show math questions, then the answers to their students. "It's already set up so you don't have to reinvent the wheel," she said, adding that she also appreciated a lesson on Newton's Laws, computer coding, weather and NASA images with astronauts. "It's not just a toy," she said. "It's useful to integrate and make lessons more engaging." She also learned how to record video on her phone, then show it on her screen. "There's a lot it can do," she said. "It's not just an overhead (projector)." Westwood Elementary teacher Marie La Rosa said has found that students are more involved in their learning when they are standing at the Promethean panel showing their work. "The thing I got most excited about was being able to have four different screens at the same time, so you could have students each solve a math problem their own way and talk about what they did." Vallejo said as teachers master how to use the panels, they can shift their focus from the hardware to the software that will enhance their curriculum instruction. Strandwood Elementary staff member and parent creates sand art for Indian Diwali holiday Preeti Pradhan, a Strandwood Elementary special education assistant and parent/PTA member, creates colorful sand art known as "rangoli" in front of the school to help raise awareness of the Indian holiday Diwali, which lasts from Nov. 10-15. it will be on display at the school through Nov. 20th. In keeping with the District's emphasis on promoting diversity, equity and inclusion, Strandwood Elementary special education assistant and parent Preeti Pradhan has created a colorful sand art display known as "rangoli" at the front of the school to help raise awareness of the Indian holiday Diwali, which is celebrated from Nov. 10-15 in India and by Indian immigrants and their families in the U.S. The daughter of immigrants from India, Pradhan said the designs normally center around a peacock, but she decided to feature the Strandwood mascot the roadrunner, which is shaped similar to a peacock. The circular design also includes repeating "mandala" geometric patterns, as well as flowers and tiny lights around the outside. She wrote "Happy Diwali" in English and Hindi across the top of the design. Pradhan presented her idea to the PTA's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee, which approved it along with Principal Leif Utler. She also provided teachers with educational materials that they can use to educate their students about the holiday, which is considered one of the most important and celebrates the new year, the victory of good over evil and the goddess Lakshmi, she said. "Mr. Utler was very enthusiastic to have this artwork visible to all of the Strandwood families and the MDUSD community, as well as bring more DEI initiatives to the school," she said. In India, families and businesses often create rangolis outside their front doors to invoke Lakshmi, who is believed to bring wealth and prosperity to households.  PTA member Connie Sithi, who helped Pradhan fill in the design and smooth out the sand, said she appreciates learning about different cultural traditions. "One billion people in the world celebrate this," she said. "And most of us here don't even know about it."  Pradhan said many immigrants from India live in the Bay Area and she estimates there may be about 12 Indian families at Strandwood. Sithi said a boy at Strandwood asked what she was doing and when she told him it was for Diwali, he answered excitedly: "I celebrate Diwali!"  Pradhan, who is the parent of three children, said she would like to continue this tradition at Strandwood next year. "My kids are mixed race, so it's really important for us to be able to show our kids their culture and also that lots of people at the school can celebrate together," she said, adding that she also wears Indian clothing and creates henna designs to to help spark conversations with students and staff about her culture. She said it's affirming for people from different cultures to be represented among staff and parents, so everyone feels "seen and heard." The rangoli (below) will be on display through November 20th, but since it is made of sand, it may start to blow away due to wind or rain, she added. Strandwood Elementary is at 416 Gladys Drive in Pleasant Hill. YVHS International Baccalaureate (IB) program information nights for 8th grade families continue The International Baccalaureate (IB) program at Ygnacio Valley HS invites MDUSD 8th grade students, parents and families to attend an information night to find out more about this unique program, which is available to all students in the District via  intradistrict transfers  (transfer application deadline is Nov. 15). The program will continue to hold IB information nights, online and in person at District middle schools next week. Choosing IB enhances academic excellence, and can significantly elevate college acceptance rates through its Rigorous Academic Curriculum, Global Perspective, emphasis on Holistic Development, focus on Research Skills, and Preparation for University-Level Work and College. To learn more, attend any of the information sessions listed below: Monday November 13, Valley View MS Tuesday November 14, Sequoia MS 6 PM Tuesday November 14, Diablo View MS 6 PM More information is  here . Parent Advisory Committee to discuss Visual and Performing Arts plan on Tuesday, Nov. 14th The District's Parent Advisory Committee will meet from 5:30-7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 14th at Willow Creek Center, 1026 Mohr Lane in Concord. The agenda includes: District Updates from MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark and a discussion of MDUSD's Visual & Performing Arts Plan led by Curriculum Specialist, Kellie Hoover. Details are here . The next Fentanyl Awareness: Facts and Tools to Save a Life event is Wednesday, Nov. 15th MDUSD's next free Fentanyl Awareness: Facts and Tools to Save a Life event is at 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 15th at Northgate High School. (Check-in is at 5:30 p.m.) The purpose of this event is to share the latest information and data about the dangers of fentanyl and train families and students how to recognize an opioid overdose and administer Narcan/Naloxone to try to save a life. Parents and their students are encouraged to attend. Additional details have been sent to MDUSD staff and families via ParentSquare.  Please check your ParentSquare posts for a link to register. Registration is required to receive the free Narcan/Naloxone. The event will include presentations by Assemblyman Tim Grayson, health professionals, parent voices and a student panel. Intradistrict Transfer application deadline is Wednesday for students in grades 6-12 in 2024-25  Families who want to apply for Intradistrict Transfers for students who reside inside the MDUSD boundaries and are requesting to transfer to another MDUSD school can fill out an application to select a preferred school through Wednesday, November 15th. Intradistrict Transfers are: •    For students who will be in grades 6-12 in the 2024-25 school year •    Available Oct. 15-Nov. 15, 2023 •    Only available by completing an online application on this website: Intradistrict Transfers The transfer application (in English and Spanish) is  here . Only one transfer application will be processed per student per academic year. Unassigned Area High School Choice applications are available for 2024-25 and 2025-26 Families of 7th and 8th-graders who live in an Unassigned High School Attendance Area can now fill out an application to select a preferred high school for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years.  Unassigned Area High School Choice information: •    Application opened Oct. 15, 2023 for the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 school years •    Application is available for 7th and 8th graders currently living in the Unassigned High School Attendance Area (Diablo View MS and Pine Hollow MS attendance areas) •   District high school resident status for unassigned high school areas is only available by completing the online application on this website:  Unassigned Area Students who live in the Diablo View and Pine Hollow Middle School attendance areas will be granted resident status instead of unassigned status by selecting one of the following high schools as their home high school: College Park High School Concord High School Mt. Diablo High School Northgate High School Ygnacio Valley High School School News Northgate HS opens a new Wellness Center to help relieve stress and anxiety on campus Social Worker Merrit Rollins cuts a ribbon to mark the grand opening of Northgate High School's Wellness Center (left). Student aide Jordan Jewell holds the center's "emotional support dog" (center), and inviting couches and relaxing activities await students (right). Northgate HS in Walnut Creek is the most recent District campus to open a "Wellness Center" to provide a space for students to relax and relieve their anxieties. Staffed by Social Worker Merritt Rollins and a part-time San Jose State University intern, the center will also offer counseling or just a place to talk for students who may want to discuss things that are bothering them. Principal Kelly Cooper credited science teacher Todd Bauleke for first bringing attention to the issue of student anxieties and feelings of disconnectedness at the school. He worked to improve student wellness by creating a "link crew" that matches upper class students with incoming freshmen to help welcome them. The school's Parent Faculty Club (PFC) also supported the effort by helping to fund some of the materials and helping to clean out the former classroom and transform it into a homey, comfortable space. With donated furniture and an emotional support dog, Cooper called it "a secret place" tucked away in a corner of the campus, where students will be able to listen to music, warm up under a weighted blanket, read, do puzzles, color, or play games for 10 minutes during class periods. Cooper said everyone at the school supports students' well-being, including office staff, campus supervisors, counselors and college and career advisors. Student Daniel Carranza and his family also helped to create the space, she said. Student aide Jordan Jewell will check students in and out and help "make sure the space maintains its integrity," Cooper said. PFC President Catherine Foster, whose three children attend the school, said the PFC pays for half of Rollins' salary. "I just feel the mental health of our students is so important," she said, adding that the world can be difficult to navigate. She said the Wellness Center gives students "a trusted space where they can talk to somebody or decompress and just take time to chill out." Daniel said he appreciated the space. "The energy in here is cool," he said. Merritt said there is a tremendous amount of anxiety among students, including some who experience panic attacks. "It's really life stress, the times that we live in," she said. A video showing students how to access and use the Wellness Center is here . Student News MDHS football star Herschel Turner breaks a record as the team heads into the NCS playoffs Huge congrats to Mt. Diablo HS football running back Hershel Turner who ended last Saturday on top of the North Coast Section  record books after running for 413 yards and five touchdowns on 23 carries in a 55-40 victory over Berean Christian. The total gives Turner 2,957 rushing yards and 42 touchdowns on 161 carries, moving the senior past the previous regular-season record of 2,623 set by Salesian’s Jahvid Best in 2006. The Red Devils are fired up for their NCS Playoff game v Acalanes at 7 p.m. Friday at Acalanes HS! Staff News Recognition for CA Teacher of the Year Joseph Alvarico includes "rock star" profile on KTVU, kudos from the Philippine Consulate General and a radio interview in the Philippines Ygnacio Valley HS engineering teacher Joseph Alvarico, who has been named a District, Contra Costa County and California Teacher of the Year, is continuing to attract media attention both in the Bay Area, as well as in his native country, the Philippines. In a recent KTVU profi , he said teaching makes him feel like a "rock star" because he likes being the person who students turn to for answers. But he also said he gets to know his students so he understands their needs. "That is what drives me," he said. News reports about his recognition attracted the attention of the Philippine Consulate General , who congratulated him and commented on his Filipino roots in a Facebook post: "Mr. Alvarico’s award is yet another recognition of the invaluable contribution of Filipino American teachers in shaping future generations of Americans. His ability to connect with his students is unmistakably Filipino— pakikipagkapwa-tao —and I am glad that Mr. Alvarico remains deeply rooted to his Filipino heritage,” Consul General Neil Ferrer said. While on a recent leave in the Philippines, Mr. Alvarico was also interviewed in Tagalog interspersed with English by a local radio station. "Teaching is the profession that creates all other professions," he said, explaining the critical role that teachers worldwide play in developing future leaders and workforce members. (Unfortunately, the video of the radio interview is no longer available online.) Mr. Alvarico has also been invited to the Warriors basketball Filipino Heritage Night and has more media interviews in the works. Thank you for shining a light on the opportunities you are providing to STEM students at Ygnacio Valley HS and Diablo Valley College! Community News Free Dental Care available in Walnut Creek on Dental Outreach Day, Nov. 18th Walnut Creek Dentists are hosting a Dental Outreach day in the East Bay on Saturday, November 18th from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm in Walnut Creek, which will include free dental exams, and limited treatment including fillings and extractions. Unfortunately, they are no longer accepting appointments for teeth cleaning. This event is dedicated to serving those in our community who are in need of dental care. Oral health is a critical aspect of overall health, yet many individuals in our community face barriers to accessing dental care. We understand that dental issues can impact one's quality of life, and we are committed to making a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Anyone is in the Mt. Diablo community is welcome and can sign up for a time slot here: https://www.wcdentists.com/dental-outreach-day/ . Important Dates Nov. 10:  Veterans Day Holiday . No school, District Offices closed Nov. 14 :   Parent Advisory Committee   meeting  at  5:30 p.m . at Willow Creek Center   Nov .  15:  Fentanyl Awareness Event at 6 p.m. (5;30 p.m. check-in) at Northgate HS (registration is required) Nov. 16 :   Measure J CBOC  meeting  at 5 p.m.; Measure C CBOC  meeting  at 7 p.m. Nov . 20-24 :   School  Recess ; Schools closed all week, District Offices closed Nov. 23-24 Nov.  30 : District English Learner Advisory Committee ( DELAC )  meeting   at 5:30 p.m. Weekly Organizational Update Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark publishes detailed District operations reports in our weekly Organizational Update to the Board. Click  here  or on the image below to view this week’s update from department leaders, which is also  archived  for reference on the District's website. The Friday Letter is written and compiled by MDUSD's Public Information and Community Relations Officer Theresa Harrington Brandt. Reach her at  brandtt@mdusd.org  for Friday Letter submissions.

Friday, Nov 10 2023

Friday Letter - November 3, 2023

NOVEMBER 3, 2023 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 6 NO. 13 This issue highlights:  7 Latina staff members including counselors emphasize influential Latinx educators in Día de los Muertos ofrenda (altar) District news including November is Native American Heritage Month, Board discusses arts plan, District reaches Tentative Agreement with teachers' union, and upcoming events School news featuring Shore Acres Elementary families create Día de los Muertos diorama ofrendas and some staff and students dress as "Catrinas" Student news including Concord HS students participate in the school's 13th annual "Scare Away Hunger" campaign, Monte Gardens students trick or treat at the District Office, and a Robert Shearer Preschool student is in the news Staff spotlights on Sequoia Elementary's "bewitching" Halloween costumes and Oak Grove MS Filipino Heritage Month staff party And more! Latina staff including counselors emphasize Latinx  educators in  Día de los Muertos ofrenda Latina counselors, a dual immersion teacher, community school coordinator, and college and career advisor together created an educational Día de los Muertos ofrenda (altar) at the Willow Creek Center to highlight their Mexican culture and influential Mexican educators. Titled "Latinx Legacy in Education," the ofrenda includes profiles of 9 prominent Latinx educators who have died, traditional offerings for the dead, and student art from the sites where the staff who created it work (below). Continuing a tradition they began last year, four Latina counselors in the District with Mexican ancestry helped to create a "Día de los Muertos" ofrenda (or altar) to help educate the community about the special importance of Nov. 1 and Nov. 2 in many Latin American cultures, also known as the "Day of the Dead." This year, the counselors reached out to three more District staff members of Mexican heritage to broaden the scope of their project and to reflect the community of Latinx MDUSD employees who are helping to educate District students, who are about 44% Hispanic/Latinx. Counselors Angela Ordaz (Holbrook Language Academy and Mountain View Elementary), Marcie Torres (Shore Acres Elementary), Leidi Arias and Yaretzie Amaya (both at Mt. Diablo HS) partnered with Shore Acres Elementary dual immersion 2nd grade teacher Andrea Navarro, District community school coordinator Pati Coronado and Mt. Diablo HS college and career advisor Erika Ramos to create an ofrenda titled "Latinx Legacy in Education," which features profiles of nine prominent Latinx educators who have died, as well as traditional offerings for the dead and student art from the sites where they work. The traditional ofrenda provides  a place for the living to reunite with their loved ones. It includes angel's wings made of cardboard by Mt. Diablo HS students, on which visitors can write the names of loved ones they wish to honor. It will be on display through Thursday, Nov. 16  in the Willow Creek Center at 1026 Mohr Lane in Concord. The unique ofrenda includes descriptions of the items included and their significance, such as  candles, salt, a food offering (apples for educators), water, and "pan de muerto" - or Day of the Dead bread, "copal" incense made of resin from a Mexican tree to ward off evil spirits so that only authentic spirits of loved ones return, marigold   flowers and "papel picado," which means "cut paper" in Spanish and is a traditional Mexican craft with intricate designs. Navarro's students made marigolds out of 10 layers of orange tissue paper as they learned about Día de los Muertos. Born in Mexico, Navarro said she immigrated to the U.S. when she was 4 years old and she grew up celebrating the special days to honor loved ones who had died and "keep them present." Although she attended MDUSD schools, they didn't recognize Día de los Muertos and she's happy that many District schools are now exploring the cultural heritage of a high percentage of students with activities related to it. "It's important to learn about everyone's culture," she said. Similarly, Ramos, who also attended MDUSD schools and graduated from Mt. Diablo HS, said if her schools had created ofrendas when she was a student, she would have felt "at home." "It's really essential to build awareness," she said, adding that for the ofrenda, she provided the profile of Dr. Helen Rodriguez-Trias, an American pediatrician who advocated for both education and healthcare for all. These are both vitally important to MDUSD students as well, Ramos said. Arias said the Latinx educators highlighted in the ofrenda "paved the way for us to be where we are today." She profiled Arturo Islas, a Mexican-American researcher who earned undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees from Stanford University, "which is one of the most prestigious universities in the world." "It's very inspiring," she said. Amaya said her Mt. Diablo HS students were excited to create the angel's wings and she feels that the ofrenda represents her "family" of staff members from different sites who came together with the common goal of sharing their heritage with the larger District community. Ordaz said the group plans to continue the tradition next year, including even more Latinx staff members and schools in the project. Check out the "School News" below to see how Shore Acres Elementary celebrated Día de los Muertos! Read more about the four Latina counselors and their outreach to Latinx parents  here . District News November is Native American Heritage Month The Mt. Diablo Unified School District recognizes November as "Native American Heritage Month." The MDUSD Governing Board adopted a resolution that says, in part: "the American culture has been greatly influenced by the customs and traditions of native peoples and their close relationship to the earth and all its inhabitants" and the history curriculum "must reflect the experiences of men and women and of different racial, religious, and ethnic groups and must be integrated at every level." On Wednesday, Nov. 8, the Board expects to discuss and potentially approve a land acknowledgement recognizing the history of the land the District inhabits, and the indigenous peoples who came before us and who continue to flourish today.  MDUSD Board discusses Visual and Performing Arts Strategic Plan In March of 2023, an Arts Planning Team was created bringing together a diverse team of constituents to envision the way forward for increased access and equity in arts education for all Mt. Diablo Unified School District students from TK-12th grade. The team met in person for three full days from March 2023 to June 2023 and included the Superintendent, Board Members, local artists, local business partners, parents, teachers and students representing a diversity of voices, perspectives and lived experiences. The meetings were facilitated by outside Consultant, Peggy Burt, from Mindfulness Strategies.  Burt and MDUSD Visual and Performing Arts curriculum specialist Kellie Hoover presented the culmination of the team's work to the MDUSD Board on Oct. 30th. Here are the presentation and Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) Strategic Plan: Arts Equity for All Students 2023-2028 , which were shared with the Board. The Board expects to discuss and potentially approve the plan at its Nov. 8th meeting .  MDUSD reaches a tentative agreement with Mt. Diablo teachers' union (MDEA) for 2024-25 MDUSD is pleased that we have reached a tentative agreement with our Mt. Diablo Education Association (MDEA) teachers' union for the 2024-25 school year, which is subject to approval by union members and the School Board. Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark's announcement about the agreement is here . Free COVID and Flu Vaccine Clinic this Saturday at Mt. Diablo Adult Education in Concord Contra Costa Health in partnership with Mt. Diablo Adult Education is pleased to offer a free COVID and Flu Vaccine Clinic this Saturday to anyone ages 6 months or older (minors must be accompanied by a parent or caretaker). Date: Saturday, November 4, 2023 Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Location: Mt. Diablo Adult Education, 1266 San Carlos Avenue, Concord, CA 94519 Cost: FREE! For details, please see the flyers in English and  Spanish .  More information is is cchealth.org/flu or 925-313-6740. MDUSD invites Black male high school students to a free Youth Summit on Saturday at DVC MDUSD is proud to invite Black male High School students from the District and throughout the East Bay to Youth Summit 2023: Breaking Barriers to Achieving Black Excellence from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4 at Diablo Valley College. The free event is being organized by The Miles Hall Foundation to "explore the importance of creative expression (art, music, writing, etc.) along with mental health, as pathways to Black Excellence," according to a flyer promoting the summit. The goal is to help the young men who attend to become change-makers in their community. Details are here . Rio Vista Elementary "Food Forest" tree planting event is Saturday, Nov. 4th in Bay Point MDUSD families, staff and community members are invited to join the Growing Healthy Kids program from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov 4th as a volunteer to help plant over 50 trees and edible shrubs in the "Food Forest" at Rio Vista Elementary! Water and snacks will be provided and all ages and abilities are welcome. Please enter through the main entrance at 611 Pacifica Ave. in Bay Point. You can be part of history in building an Oak Understory Outdoor Classroom. Service hour credit is available for MDUSD students who participate. Please register online here . YVHS International Baccalaureate (IB) program information nights for 8th grade families The International Baccalaureate (IB) program at Ygnacio Valley HS invites MDUSD 8th grade students, parents and families to attend an information night to find out more about this unique program, which is available to all students in the District via intradistrict transfers (transfer application deadline is Nov. 15). The program will hold IB information nights, online and in person at District middle schools. Choosing IB enhances academic excellence, and can significantly elevate college acceptance rates through its Rigorous Academic Curriculum, Global Perspective, emphasis on Holistic Development, focus on Research Skills, and Preparation for University-Level Work and College. To learn more, attend any of the information sessions listed below: Monday November 6, Foothill MS 6 PM Tuesday November 7, Holbrook Language Academy 6 PM Tuesday November 7, Pine Hollow MS 6 PM Wednesday November 8, Pleasant Hill MS 6 PM Thursday November 9, (Online) 6:30 PM* Monday November 13, Valley View MS Tuesday November 14, Sequoia MS 6 PM Tuesday November 14, Diablo View MS 6 PM More information is here . MDUSD Board meets Wednesday to appoint VP, discuss Arts Plan, approve 2024-25 calendar  The MDUSD Board will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday in the District Office Board Room to appoint a vice principal for College Park HS; discuss and potentially approve a proposed Visual and Performing Arts Strategic  Plan , 2024-25  calenda r,   land acknowledgement , and instructions to negotiate a districtwide Project Labor  Agreement ,  among other items. The complete agenda is  here . Ygnacio Valley HS to host Vietnam War Alumni Bench Dedication on Thursday, Nov. 9 MDUSD schools and District Offices will be closed on Friday, Nov. 10, in honor of the Veterans Day Holiday, which is Saturday, Nov. 11th. On Thursday, Nov. 9th at 11 a.m., Ygnacio Valley High School will celebrate Veterans Day early with a Bench Dedication to all YVHS Alumni who lost their lives during the Vietnam War. The event will also celebrate and honor all Veterans who served in the military. The following alumni will be honored: Willard Edward Nelson (Oct. 16, 1948 - Jan. 30, 1968) Randall Bingham Choate (July 25, 1949 - August 3, 1968) John Charles Sterling (June 15, 1949 – December 15, 1968) Ronnie Cardoza Pimentel (January 17, 1948 – September 1, 1968) Daniel Lee McKechnie (November 24, 1947 – November 25, 1968) If any community members know how to contact the families of the alumni listed above, please contact Principal Jonathan Pike at pikej@mdusd.org. The school would be honored to share this dedication with them. The next Fentanyl Awareness: Facts and Tools to Save a Life event is Wednesday, Nov. 15th MDUSD's next free Fentanyl Awareness: Facts and Tools to Save a Life event is at 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 15th (Check-in is at 5:30 p.m.) The purpose of this event is to share the latest information and data about the dangers of fentanyl and train families and students how to recognize an opioid overdose and administer Narcan/Naloxone to try to save a life. Parents and their students are encouraged to attend. Additional details have been sent to MDUSD staff and families via ParentSquare. Please check your ParentSquare posts for a link to register. Registration is required to receive the free Narcan/Naloxone. The event will include presentations by Assemblyman Tim Grayson, health professionals, parent voices and a student panel. Intradistrict Transfer applications for students in grades 6-12 in 2024-25 available through Nov. 15 Families who want to apply for Intradistrict Transfers for students who reside inside the MDUSD boundaries and are requesting to transfer to another MDUSD school can fill out an application to select a preferred school through November 15th. Intradistrict Transfers are: •    For students who will be in grades 6-12 in the 2024-25 school year •    Available Oct. 15-Nov. 15, 2023 •    Only available by completing an online application on this website: Intradistrict Transfers The transfer application (in English and Spanish) is  here . Only one transfer application will be processed per student per academic year. Unassigned Area High School Choice applications are now available for 2024-25 and 2025-26 Families of 7th and 8th-graders who live in an Unassigned High School Attendance Area can now fill out an application to select a preferred high school for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years.  Unassigned Area High School Choice information: •    Application opened Oct. 15, 2023 for the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 school years •    Application is available for 7th and 8th graders currently living in the Unassigned High School Attendance Area (Diablo View MS and Pine Hollow MS attendance areas) •   District high school resident status for unassigned high school areas is only available by completing the online application on this website:  Unassigned Area Students who live in the Diablo View and Pine Hollow Middle School attendance areas will be granted resident status instead of unassigned status by selecting one of the following high schools as their home high school: College Park High School Concord High School Mt. Diablo High School Northgate High School Ygnacio Valley High School School News Shore Acres Elementary families create "Día de los Muertos" ofrendas in shoebox dioramas displayed along with one large school ofrenda The stage in the Shore Acres Elementary multi-use room is decorated with a large school Día de los Muertos ofrenda, along with family ofrendas created in shoeboxes The school sponsored a contest and the 1st, 2nd and 3rd-place winning dioramas are left to right above Shore Acres Elementary Noon Supervisor Estella Mojia, secretary Evelyn Delgadillo (Mojica's daugher) and instructional assistant Leticia Gomez dress in Día de los Muertos "Catrina" costumes (left), while TK student Olivia Ramirez and Kindergarten student Alexandra Cabrera wore similar costumes on Nov. 2 (right). Día de los Muertos ofrendas (or altars) are becoming more common at MDUSD schools as communities recognize the cultural traditions of our many Latinx students. Usually, staff and students will supply mementos or items to create one large ofrenda. But at Shore Acres Elementary this year, staff came up with an idea to get the whole family involved. They asked each family to create its own miniature ofrenda as a diorama in a shoebox or other small box. To add to the fun, they created a contest and gave out prizes for the top three creations. And in the school where about 90% of students are Hispanic or Latino, many staff and students chose to dress in "Catrina" costumes, which are often part of the Día de los Muertos tradition.  A total of 66 dioramas were created, with tiny altars, marigold flowers and pictures of loved ones. English Language Development support teacher Lourdes Hernandez said the family ofrendas gave families an opportunity to talk about Día de los Muertos and express their feelings about loved ones who have died. Maricel Calderon, the school's English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC) President, said she enjoyed working with her twin 1st-graders on the project. "It was a way for me to teach my kids about our culture and about family members who have passed away," said Calderon, who immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico. And the Calderons ended up winning second prize! Instructional assistant Leticia Gomez said the school hopes to get more families involved next year. They combined all of the dioramas on the multi-use room stage, creating a beautiful display in one large ofrenda.  Hernandez said the large ofrenda also included classroom projects, such as colorful "papel picado," or "cut paper" designs made by 4th and 5th-graders that were hung above the stage. Several staff members and students dressed in "Catrina" costumes, traditional Mexican clothing with marigolds in their hair and makeup to signify life and death. "I like to celebrate this day and I think it's important for our kids to see our culture," said Noon Supervisor Estela Mojica. Her daughter Evelyn Delgadillo added: "I feel the Catrina is important to this Day of the Dead, so I wanted to show those emotions."  The school also invited students to write short notes about family members or friends who have died and something they remember of miss about them, combining art with writing in their celebration. Special Education teacher Miran Chung said she spent three weeks creating lessons around Día de los Muertos for her students, so when the contest was announced, they understood it and many of their families participated in making the dioramas. Her students also colored paper skulls, which were part of the large ofrenda. "It was an awesome tie-in to the whole lesson we had," she said. "They really took their time and it turned out great." Student News Concord HS students participate in the school's 13th annual "Scare Away Hunger" campaign About 125 Concord HS students in seven clubs or groups participated in the school's 13th Annual "Scare Away Hunger" food and donation drive on Halloween night. Seven teams of Concord High students participated in the 13th annual "Scare Away Hunger" donation drive to collect donations of food and money for the  Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano counties on Halloween. All items collected will be donated back to the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano County, who serve upwards of 450,000 people each month. Community members can also contribute to the Scare Away Online Fundraiser  here . “Seeing these students involved in their community is very inspiring,” said Nichol Carranza, Adv. Community Investments Rep at Marathon Petroleum, which sponsored the event. “We are proud to be helping to inspire the future generation to give back." Marathon donated $5,000 directly to the food bank and another $5,000 to the school. It also provides meals and prizes for the teams, which included: Band, Choir, Cross Country, Leadership, AVID, Link Crew and Key Club/CSF. Emmalee Usedom, a 16-year-old junio who plays trombone in the band, said she enjoyed participating in the event. "You get to have fun with your friends, but also help the community," she said.   Teacher Azeema Yahya, who participated in the drive herself when she was a Concord HS student, said she encouraged the "Link Crew" to get involved this year. Link Crew includes upper classmen who team up with 9th-graders to help them transition socially and academically. "When I did it as a student, it was a very fulfilling experience for me," she said. "And I think kids need that - something to work toward that is not all about them."  Jonathan Perez, a 17-year-old senior who plays tenor sax in the band, said he likes to make people smile. And as a senior, he is hoping to set a good example for younger band members showing them to take time to help others.  Monte Gardens Elementary students trick or treat and judge decorating contest at District Office It has been a tradition that the District office invites the Monte Gardens Elementary Special Day Classes to Trick Or Treat and the tradition continued this year, with the counseling enriched classroom joining in the fun, said Principal Bess Inzeo. The students walk through various departments that are decorated for a District Office contest. "Our students come trick or treating in each department and are AMAZED at the Halloween magic that is created at the District office," Inzeo said. "Our 5th grade student council representative came to judge each Department (above right). They took this task very seriously. There was a Halloween rubric for the judges to base their scores on such as creativity, costumes and more...The 5th graders worked collaboratively to make the very important decisions for the Halloween awards." The Special Education and Student Services Dept. won "most creative," Educational Services won "best decor," Information Technology won "best costume," Fiscal Services won "most original theme," Human Resources won "best individual costume" and an honorable mention went to the "support dogs" in the Special Education "camping area." Congrats to all! Robert Shearer Preschool student in the news KPIX broadcast a heartwarming story about an MDUSD student at Robert Shearer Preschool in Pleasant Hill who is fighting a rare disease, but was able to enjoy the school's Halloween Parade in a costume custom-made by his parents to fit over his wheelchair. Milo McCormack's extremely rare neurodegenerative disease is called Spastic Ataxia-5. In 2022, the McCormack family started the "Miracles for Mighty Milo" foundation, focusing on drug repurposing projects and fundraising efforts potentially reaching hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars for gene therapy.  Collaborating with an Italian researcher, the family is in a race against time to save Milo's life.  "Milo's health and abilities continue to decline. It's really challenging, but it's all about what we can do today for him to continue to learn and engage with others," explained Robert Shearer Preschool Principal Jessica Phillips, who is also a Special Education administrator for the Mt. Diablo Unified School District's preschool programs, highlighting the community's dedication to Milo's wellbeing. More information on Milo's fight can be found at the "Miracles for Mighty Milo" foundation website here: https://www.mightymilo.org/ . Staff News Spotlight on Sequoia Elementary's "bewitching" Halloween costumes Every year, Sequoia Elementary staff choose a group costume for Halloween, says Principal Becky Vichiquis. "We start with a group brainstorm of ideas, have all staff rank their top choices and finally vote between these top choices," she said. "This process provides input and results in a theme we all go with." The winning theme this year was "Bewitching!" "Our community looks forward to seeing our costumes each year and we enjoy seeing our students (and parents!) dress up for the school-wide Halloween Parade," Vichiquis said. Oak Grove Middle School Filipino teachers treat staff to a Filipino American Heritage Month feast! Filipino Heritage Month was celebrated 🇵🇭🇺🇸 at Oak Grove MS as Filipino teachers and staff prepared a sumptuous lunch for staff and admin, tweeted teacher Jeffrey Juico. "We got some games and prizes for the brave to try some exotic Filipino delicacy." The feast included Lumpia from the Delos Santos duo’s Mama’s Lumpia restaurant,.Savory Pansit with veggies, Yummy Senorita Bread, Crispy Banana Turon (like fritters), fluffy Mamon cake & delicious & refreshing tropical drinks of Mango & Calamansi juice! Yum! Important Dates Nov. 3:  End First   Trimester   Nov. 4 : Growing Healthy Kids Tree Planting   from 10 a.m. to noon in the Rio Vista Elementary Food Forest;  Breaking Barriers to Achieving Black Excellence   Youth  Summit  from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Diablo Valley College; Free  flu and COVID   vaccine clinic  from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mt. Diablo Adult Education (See District News above for all)   Nov .  6:  Mt Diablo Business Education Alliance ( MDBEA ) meeting from 4-5:30 p.m. at College Park HS Nov. 7 :   Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Board Room Nov . 8 :   MDUSD  Board   meeting  at 6 p.m. in the District Office Board Room Nov.  9 : Veterans Day Bench Dedication at 11 a.m. at Ygnacio Valley HS (See District News above);  AAPAC   meeting  from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Black Family Resource Center at Gateway HS in Bay Point and Oak Grove MS in Concord Weekly Organizational Update Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark publishes detailed District operations reports in our weekly Organizational Update to the Board. Click  here  or on the image below to view this week’s update from department leaders, which is also  archived  for reference on the District's website. The Friday Letter is written and compiled by MDUSD's Public Information and Community Relations Officer Theresa Harrington Brandt. Reach her at  brandtt@mdusd.org  for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Nov 04 2023

Friday Letter - October 27, 2023

OCTOBER 27, 2023 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 6 NO. 12 This issue highlights:  MDUSD partners with The Miles Hall Foundation and DVC to present Youth Summit 2023: Breaking Barriers to Achieving Black Excellence on Nov. 4 District news including Board hears student report on Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program at Westwood Elementary, Teacher of the Year continues to shine School news including student HOSA future health professionals participate in weekend trainings, YVHS hosts MDUSD's 11th Annual College Fair Community news featuring upcoming community events including Youth Shark Tank competition And more! MDUSD partners with The Miles Hall Foundation and DVC to present  "Breaking Barriers to Achieving Black Excellence" on Nov. 4 MDUSD is partnering with The Miles Hall Foundation and DVC to present a Youth Summit aimed at Breaking Barriers to Achieving Black Excellence (left). Taun Hall (right) is the mother of Miles Hall, who was killed by Walnut Creek police during a mental health crisis. She formed the foundation to raise awareness of mental health issues and provide resources to students, among other goals MDUSD is proud to invite Black male High School students from the District and throughout the East Bay to Youth Summit 2023: Breaking Barriers to Achieving Black Excellence from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4 at Diablo Valley College. The free event is being organized by The Miles Hall Foundation to "explore the importance of creative expression (art, music, writing, etc.) along with mental health, as pathways to Black Excellence," according to a flyer promoting the summit. A  flyer aimed at parents and adults who work with Black teens urges them to "help us reach East Bay Black male high school students for a day of connection, exploration and envisioning." (Both flyers are attached below.) The goal is to help the young men who attend to become change-makers in their community. Taun Hall is the mother of Miles Hall, who was shot and killed by Walnut Creek police during a mental health crisis in 2019. She said she started the foundation in her son's memory and came up with the idea for the summit to let Black men and boys know how important, valued and special they are and discuss challenges including race and social justice issues, while also giving them "tools and strategies on how to maneuver life when it’s not easy." The summit will include breakfast and lunch, along with interactive breakout sessions on navigating the streets, setting goals and being the best you can be, and five strategies related to mental wellness. There will also be raffles including more than $9,000 worth of tutoring hours from C2 Education, as well as AirPods, DoorDash, Burger King, Footlocker and other gift cards. And every student will receive the book, "Black Boy Poems," by  Tyson Amir , who is the guest speaker. "He's basically setting the tone for the event," Hall said, explaining that Amir will discuss systemic problems in society and offer tools for success. "He’s basically talking about his Black experiences with hip hop and social justice, and inspiring students to become their best selves." Students will also receive a workbook to help them implement what they learn. The summit has already attracted about 25 teens from the MDUSD, Pittsburg, Acalanes, Oakland and Dublin school districts, Hall said, adding that she and other District organizers are helping to get the word out with a goal of hosting 100 students. Hall recently visited the Black Student Union at Northgate HS to invite students and talk about her work, which U.S. History and Ethnic Studies teacher Meg Honey called "incredibly inspiring" and "critically important." Career pathways administrator Heather Fontanilla said the District is partnering with The Miles Hall Foundation because MDUSD recognizes the importance of supporting all of its students in combating systemic racism and in removing the stigma surrounding mental illness. "MDUSD recognizes the continuing achievement gap for Black males and is working with The Miles Hall Foundation to address that gap by supporting this summit, which will focus on empowering MDUSD Black males, as well as Black males from other school districts, to achieve Black excellence," she said. District News Board hears student report on Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program at Westwood Elementary  MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark (l-r) stands with Board Vice President Erin McFerrin, Westwood Elementary student Jayden Yanez, Board Member Cherise Khaund, students Anahi Garcia Gonzalez and Pablo Cabrera, Board Member Linda Mahyo and Student Board Member Susana Barrios after their presentation. The Mt. Diablo Unified School District Board was delighted to hear a presentation from three Westwood Elementary students about the Deaf and Hard of Hearing program at the school on Wednesday, Oct. 25th. Students Pablo Cabrera, Anahi Garcia Gonzalez and Jayden Yanez talked about what it's like to be deaf and other information that they previously presented to their classmates in September for Deaf Awareness Month. You can watch their presentation  here . Board Member Cherise Khaud said the presentation made her want to learn American Sign Language and Board Member Linda Mayo said her children learned sign language and were able to use it to communicate with people while shopping and in other public places. Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark thanked the students for sharing their report with the Board. "I’m your biggest advocate and your biggest fan," he said. "And I definitely want to thank the parents for trusting us with your beautiful children." The Board also received presentations on Recommendations to Improve Services for Refugee and Immigrant Youth , and The Pros and Cons of Districtwide Project Labor Agreements . In addition, the Board appointed Joseph Bruno as an Elementary School Principal for the 2024-25 school year with a site to be determined at a later date, approved the Initial Successor Agreement Proposal for Mt. Diablo Education Association (MDEA) and Mt. Diablo Unified School District's Initial Successor Agreement Proposal to MDEA, and approved International Baccalaureate instructional materials, and  among other items. The complete agenda is here . 2024-2025 School Calendar Survey The Human Resources Department, in partnership with all staff bargaining units, has begun to develop the 2024-2025 school year calendar. Before presenting any draft calendars to the Board of Education, we are seeking community input via an online survey.  Please note the following parameters used when building a school year calendar:  * School year must include 180 instructional days * First and second semesters need to have a similar number of days * The first semester ends prior to the winter break * Attention is given to days or periods of time when student attendance has been particularly low or staff absences have been high * Specified federal and state holidays are observed Please complete the survey by clicking here . District, County and CA Teacher of the Year Joseph Alvarico featured in KPIX TV report Ygnacio Valley HS engineering teacher Joseph Alvarico is featured in a KPIX TV report highlighting his selection as one of five California Teachers of the Year (above).  As the only Northern California teacher selected among five state Teachers of the Year, Ygnacio Valley HS engineering teacher Joseph Alvarico and his students are suddenly in the media spotlight. Mr. Alvarico and his students were featured in a KPIX TV  report highlighting his selection on Tuesday. He was also interviewed by a KTVU reporter while he was taking his students on a field trip to DVC on Tuesday, then spoke to a Bay Area News Group education reporter on Wednesday for a story about teachers recruited from other countries. A Filipino immigrant, Alvarico came to the U.S. in 2004 to teach science at Oak Grove MS, then transferred to Ygnacio Valley HS 12 years later.  MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark was so impressed with Alvarico and the news report that he sent it to all District staff with the message: "I will continue to celebrate this huge accomplishment. A true professional who inspires students to reach amazing heights! Thank you, Mr. Alvarico." Dr. Clark also lauded Alvarico during his Superintendent's Report to the Board, calling him "a model of what we should strive to be." Board Member Cherise Khaund agreed, and encouraged everyone to watch his speech at the Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year Awards ceremony. You can watch his speech here . Ygnacio Valley HS teacher Joseph Alvarico speaks about his teaching philosophy at the Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year Awards Ceremony in September. Besides teaching full-time at Ygnacio Valley HS, Alvarico also teaches as an adjunct faculty member at Diablo Valley College and teaches dual enrollment college level courses to some of his high school students. We are pleased to celebrate his success with the Contra Costa County Office of Education and Diablo Valley College! You can find out more about the District's Dual Enrollment classes during a Dual Enrollment meeting Nov. 4th (see below). Cafecito Con Las Consejeras (Coffee w/the counselors) is Saturday at Holbrook Language Acad. Four MDUSD Latina  Counselors   will host "Cafecito con las Consejeras" (Coffee with the Counselors) from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 28 at the Holbrook Language Academy, Room 20, 3333 Ronald Way in Concord. The counselors will chat with parents about academic success, colleges and universities, career exploration and other topics of interest. Hablamos Español. Please RSVP  here .  For more information, contact Angela Ordaz at ordaza@mdusd.org, Marcie Torres at torresmm@mdusd.org, Yaretzie Amaya at amaya@mdusd.org or Leidi Arias at ariasl@mdusd.org.  Dual Enrollment (College Credit) information night is Thursday, Nov. 2nd at Willow Creek Center MDUSD and Diablo Valley College (DVC) are collaborating to expand opportunities for students to earn early college credit. Research shows that students who graduate from high school with at least 6 college credits are more likely to enroll in college, and, more importantly, are more likely to successfully complete college. One of the ways students can earn early college credit is through dual enrollment, where students are taking a college class and students earn both high school and college credit for that course. MDUSD and DVC will be offering more dual enrollment classes beginning in Spring semester. These classes will include Introduction to Public Health, Child Development & Psychology, Print Reading, and Introduction to Graphic Design.  If you are interested in taking one of these classes or you just want to learn more about the different early college opportunities available to MDUSD students, please join us on November 2 at 6:00 pm at the Willow Creek Conference Center for an Information Night. A virtual option is available as well. We will be discussing the different types of early college credit opportunities available to students and the programs MDUSD has developed to support these opportunities. Please check out the flyers in English and Spanish for more information.   Please join the CARES Expanded Learning Program's annual Fall Fest on Saturday, Oct. 28th! . Please join the CARES Expanded Learning Program for their annual FREE Fall Fest at the Bay Point Garden Academy from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, October 28th (next to Riverview Middle School at 205 Pacifica Ave in Bay Point). All District families are highly encouraged to attend (you don't need to be enrolled in the CARES program) as there will be various free, fun activities for students that include potion, broom, bendable mummy and wand-making along with face painting, games and food!  There will also be many different raffle prizes.  More information about the CARES Expanded Learning Program is at (925) 691-0351 or on the District website here .  We are hoping to see you at the Fall Fest! November Adult Education Lifelong Learning classes including holiday preparations and more! MDUSD's Adult Education Lifelong Learning program is offering a number of classes in November that can brighten your day including floral design, using hypnosis to boost your mood, gift wrapping, and lots and lots of cooking classes. You can register for classes now at https://mdae.mdusd.org/ . Our refreshed Lifelong Education website is here:  https://mdae.mdusd.org/programs/lifelongeducation . For questions, call us at (925) 937-1530, or email us at lifelonged@mdusd.org. Rio Vista Elementary "Food Forest" tree planting event is Saturday, Nov. 4th in Bay Point Come Plant Trees with Us!  Join the Growing Healthy Kids program from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov 4th as a volunteer to help plant over 50 trees and edible shrubs in the "Food Forest" at Rio Vista Elementary! Water and snacks will be provided and all ages and abilities are welcome. Please enter through the main entrance at 611 Pacifica Ave. in Bay Point. You can be part of history in building an Oak Understory Outdoor Classroom. We are filling this site with plant life that will yield fruits and flowers all year. Service hour credit is available for MDUSD students who participate. Please register online here . Intradistrict Transfer applications for students in grades 6-12 in 2024-25 available through Nov. 15 Families who want to apply for Intradistrict Transfers for students who reside inside the MDUSD boundaries and are requesting to transfer to another MDUSD school can fill out an application to select a preferred school through November 15th. Intradistrict Transfers are: •    For students who will be in grades 6-12 in the 2024-25 school year •    Available Oct. 15-Nov. 15, 2023 •    Only available by completing an online application on this website: Intradistrict Transfers The transfer application (in English and Spanish) is  here . Only one transfer application will be processed per student per academic year. Unassigned Area High School Choice applications are now available for 2024-25 and 2025-26 Families of 7th and 8th-graders who live in an Unassigned High School Attendance Area can now fill out an application to select a preferred high school for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years.  Unassigned Area High School Choice information: •    Application opened Oct. 15, 2023 for the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 school years •    Application is available for 7th and 8th graders currently living in the Unassigned High School Attendance Area (Diablo View MS and Pine Hollow MS attendance areas) •   District high school resident status for unassigned high school areas is only available by completing the online application on this website:  Unassigned Area Students who live in the Diablo View and Pine Hollow Middle School attendance areas will be granted resident status instead of unassigned status by selecting one of the following high schools as their home high school: College Park High School Concord High School Mt. Diablo High School Northgate High School Ygnacio Valley High School School News Student HOSA future health professionals participate in weekend trainings Mt. Diablo HS HOSA Future Health Professionals recently hosted the 2023 Virtual/Live Fall Leadership Conference Region 2 at Mt. Diablo High School (above left). "The Future Health Professionals from College Park, Ygnacio Valley and Mt.Diablo high school had live and Virtual workshops that enriched our students' academic portfolios," said Mt. Diablo HS teacher David Pintado. "We thank Dr. Heather Fontanilla,  Dr. Markell McCain, Principal Kevin Honey and Principal Jonathan Pike for their firm and continued support to our Career Technical Student Organizations."  In addition, Pintado said "some of our most dedicated students volunteered at the City of Concord Emergency Response and Volunteer Services Final Drill event" on Sunday (above right). Some of them dressed as victims with simulated wounds who needed to be treated by emergency services workers. "They will be awarded with a 'Thank You' letter and community service hours," Pintado said. Ygnacio Valley HS hosts MDUSD's 11th Annual College Fair Ygnacio Valley HS, student volunteers (above) and parent volunteers hosted MDUSD's 11th Annual College Fair on Thursday, Oct. 26th, featuring about 80 representatives from colleges throughout the state and country. The fair was attended by students from all District high schools and MDUSD's Adult Education program. Thank you to all who volunteered to make this free event a success! Community News Upcoming community events include Youth Shark Tank competition The Adolescent Brain and Marijuana in 2023: What Every Adult Should Know Assemblywoman Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (16th District) will join experts from the California Department of Public Health, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, John Muir Behavioral Health, Contra Costa County CourAGE Youth Health Coalition and Stanford University's REACH Lab for a discussion on the impacts of marijuana use on adolescents' brain development. Called "The Adolescent Brain and Marijuana in 2023: What Every Adult Should Know," the event will be held from 6:30-7:30  p.m. Tuesday, November 14th at the San Ramon Community Center, Fountain Room,  12501 Alcosta Blvd. in  San Ramon. RSVP  here . For more information, call Bauer-Kahan's office at (925) 244-1600.   Students are invited to enter the first Contra Costa Shark Tank Youth Competition Introducing the first Contra Costa Shark Tank Youth Competition! Win $1,000 to launch or grow your business. No idea is too small! The competition is a fun way to promote youth entrepreneurship among K-12 students in Contra Costa County. When young people succeed as entrepreneurs, they improve their own lives while also contributing to the economic development of their local communities. Visit www.contracostasharktank.org to learn more and apply.  Finalists will be selected by the Campolindo High School Entrepreneurship Club, and winners selected by a panel of judges on February 6, 2024, at the Lafayette Library. The deadline to apply is November 15th! Important Dates Oct .  28 : Cafecito con las Consejeras from 10 a.m. to noon at Holbrook Language Academy; CARES Fall Fest from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bay Point Garden Academy (See District News above for both events)  Oct. 30 :   MDUSD Board  study session  on the Visual and Performing Arts Strategic Plan at 5 p.m. in the District Office Board Room Nov. 3:  End First   Trimester   Nov. 4 : Growing Healthy Kids Tree Planting   from 10 a.m. to noon in the Rio Vista Elementary Food Forest; Breaking Barriers to Achieving Black Excellence Youth Summit from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Diablo Valley College (See District News above for both)   Nov .  6:  Mt Diablo Business Education Alliance (MDBEA) meeting from 4-5:30 p.m. at College Park HS Nov. 7 :   Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Board Room Weekly Organizational Update Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark publishes detailed District operations reports in our weekly Organizational Update to the Board. Click  here  or on the image below to view this week’s update from department leaders, which is also  archived  for reference on the District's website. The Friday Letter is written and compiled by MDUSD's Public Information and Community Relations Officer Theresa Harrington Brandt. Reach her at  brandtt@mdusd.org  for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Oct 28 2023

Friday Letter - October 20, 2023

OCTOBER 20, 2023 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 6 NO. 11 This issue highlights:  MDUSD and County Teacher of the Year Joseph Alvarico is named a CALIFORNIA Teacher of the Year, helping to celebrate Filipino Heritage Month! Special events spotlights on The Northgate High School and MDUSD community honored Harvey Milk and the historic Proposition 6 debate that took place in the school gymnasium 45 years ago; District Career Education Fair at Concord HS shows hundreds of high school students options after graduation District news including upcoming school and District meetings and events including Red Ribbon Week is October 23-31, 2023 School news featuring Ron Redding Field at Olympic HS gets new sign to honor retired teacher who coached softball And more! Ygnacio Valley HS Teacher Joseph Alvarico is named a CALIFORNIA Teacher of the Year! As a Filipino immigrant, Mr. Alvarico is also proud to highlight Filipino Heritage Month! State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond has named Ygnacio Valley HS teacher Joseph Alvarico as one of five 2024 California Teachers of the Year! He immigrated to the U.S. from the Philippines in 2004 to begin his career teaching in MDUSD and is proud to help the District celebrate Filipino Heritage Month!   The Mt. Diablo Unified School District is thrilled to announce that State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond on Monday named Ygnacio Valley HS teacher Joseph Alvarico as one of five 2024 California Teachers of the Year! Alvarico was named a Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year in September and one of  MDUSD's Teachers of the Year last Spring. He teaches high school Engineering Essentials, Introduction to Engineering Design, and college level "dual enrollment" courses through a partnership with Diablo Valley College, and is also the advisor of the school's robotics club, "Femineer" STEM club and Interact Rotary Club for youth.  “I am both thrilled and humbled at the same time to have been selected as one of the 2024 California Teachers of the Year," Alvarido said. "This distinction is a reflection of the long hours and unwavering commitment that I have put into my teaching career. My gratitude extends to multiple people in my life who have guided me along my professional path and supported my classroom every step of the way.  Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat! ("Thank you all!" in Tagalog.) Without you, I wouldn't be able to give my students the greatest service that I possibly could. I am excited to continue making a positive impact on the lives of my students, our local community, and the educational world at large.” California Teachers of the Year are considered to be "ambassadors for the profession and serve as representatives of the state for the calendar year," according to the California Department of Education (CDE)  news release announcing Alvarico's selection. Thurmond said he was pleased to recognize the "remarkable educators, who all display deep commitment and innovation in their work—all while supporting their students through a difficult time. They make profound differences in their students’ lives and provide both inspiration and the practical tools that students need to succeed. They’re all prime examples of the exceptional work going on in California schools.” Alvarico is the only Northern California teacher to receive this distinguished honor this year as the other four teachers reside in Los Angeles and Santa Barbara counties.  Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey said she was proud that a Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year was named one of the state’s top educators. “Joseph is a great example of the high-quality teaching and learning going on in Contra Costa County schools every day and it’s a great honor for him to be selected as a California Teacher of the Year," she said. "Congratulations to him, his colleagues and MDUSD for the support they have given him throughout this process and his career.” Born in the Philippines to a family of educators, Alvarico has a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a Bachelor of Secondary Education degree. After answering an MDUSD ad seeking teachers in the Philippines, Alvarico immigrated to the United States in 2004 and initially began his MDUSD teaching career at Oak Grove MS, along with several other teachers hired from the Philippines. After 12 years, Alvarico transferred to Ygnacio Valley HS, where he has worked for seven years. He combines previous on-the-job experience in the tech industry in the Philippines into his lessons while also focusing on community-building with his students. He strives to show all his students their potential and the possibilities available when they leave high school, no matter their economic status. "As a Filipino immigrant who didn't have much growing up, I believe education is a way out of poverty," he wrote in his CDE application. "Education has brought me here to the U.S. And it's through education that I find myself among the best educators in California." His selection as a California Teacher of the Year coincides with Filipino Heritage Month in October, which he says he is proud to help celebrate with his students, the District, County and state. The heritage month recognition raises community awareness of positive contributions Filipinos have made in the past and are continuing to make in California.  Thurmond chose the state Teachers of the Year based on CDE selection committees review of applications; evaluation of the teachers’ rapport with students and their classroom environments, presentation skills, and teaching techniques; and interviews with the teachers. As part of his application, Alvarico submitted this video , in which he explains how he engages his students in learning and helps to develop their leadership and career skills. He begins with a traditional Filipino "Mabuhay" greeting, which is a formal way of saying, "hello," and includes laying the palm of his right hand over his chest in a welcoming gesture. KPIX TV reporter Ryan Yamamoto spent several hours visiting Alvarico's classroom and robotics lab on Wednesday, Oct. 18th, speaking with students for an upcoming report on Alvarico's selection as a California Teacher of the Year. And KRON TV plans to interview him on Nov. 4th. Stay tuned! Special Events   Northgate HS community honors Harvey Milk and historic debate that took place 45 years ago Stuart Milk, Harvey Milk's nephew and President of The Harvey Milk Foundation, stands in front of a commemorative plaque dedicated at Northgate HS on Oct. 16, 2023 to honor Harvey Milk and his 1978 debate in the school gym in opposition to Proposition 6 (above). Speakers at the event included Stuart Milk and (below l-r) teacher Meg Honey, Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark and Contra Costa County Supervisor Ken Carlson. The Northgate High School and MDUSD community honored Harvey Milk, the first openly gay San Francisco City Supervisor, and the historic televised Proposition 6 debate that took place in the Northgate High School gymnasium 45 years ago with a plaque dedication event on Oct. 16, 2023. Proposition 6 was a 1978 ballot initiative that would have banned LGBTQIA+ people and their supporters from working in public schools. Supervisor Milk debated State Senator John Briggs, the author of the initiative, which was defeated two months later, largely due to Milk’s advocacy. Supervisor Milk was assassinated three weeks after the ballot initiative’s defeat. His debate with Sen. Briggs at Northgate High School was one of his final public appearances. A re-enactment of the debate was featured in the Oscar Award-winning film,  Milk . More information about Milk's legacy and the Northgate debate is in this Mercury News article and this KCBS report . "I am so proud to be part of a school community that uplifts the experiences and contributions of marginalized groups,” said U.S. History and ethnic studies teacher Meg Honey, who organized the event. “Harvey Milk helped protect the human rights of school employees, and it is time that his courageous leadership during the debate at Northgate High is honored." She also noted that the District is recognizing  LGBTQ+ History Month in October. Speakers at the commemorative event included Honey, MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark, Contra Costa County Supervisor Ken Carlson, Rainbow Community Center Board President Dr. Jonathan Lee, Northgate student Ares Foster, Northgate teacher Lauren Lahey, Northgate Principal Kelly Cooper, and special guest Stuart Milk, Harvey Milk's nephew and President of the Harvey Milk Foundation.    Speakers said they were inspired by Harvey Milk and want to ensure that his legacy continues inspire future generations. "History does not look favorably on those who support discrimination," said Dr. Clark, pointing out that it is important to speak up against unjust attacks on personal freedoms. Carlson, who is the first openly gay Contra Costa County Supervisor, said he considered Harvey Milk to be one of his "heroes," and he vowed to be a voice fighting for those who are oppressed. Stuart Milk said "everyday heroes" include LGBTQ+ people who "come out" and people who don't tolerate jokes or ridicule of LGBTQ+ people. Although Harvey Milk did not live to see gay marriage legalized and other LGBTQ+ rights initiatives passed throughout the country, "he dreamed of it," Stuart Milk said. "And you are all making that dream come true." Cooper thanked Northgate teachers who are allies to LGBTQ+ students and provide safe spaces for them and those who are role models for students. She also thanked her students and for parents who are affirming them. "I can use my position to advocate, listen and to support," Cooper said. "And I will continue to do so." Click on the Social Media posts below for more highlights from the Northgate HS event. District Career Education Fair at Concord HS shows high school students options after graduation MDUSD high school students check out career training opportunities from organizations including (l-r), IronWorkers Local 378 (welding and wiring) Contra Costa Firefighters during the annual Career Education Fair at Concord HS on Oct. 18th. About 1,000 high school students from throughout the District had the opportunity to meet with representatives from 50 organizations offering training and career opportunities during the annual Career Education Fair at Concord High School on Oct. 18th. The MDUSD Career Pathways Program event highlighted many options that don't necessarily require 4-year college degrees, but offer high salaries and excellent benefits, said Sheila Bergum, the CHS College and Career Advisor, who coordinated the fair. These included unions for carpenters, electricians, plumbers and other trades that offer apprenticeship programs; Mt. Diablo Adult Education and community colleges; the U.S. military; local law enforcement; and public services agencies. "This is to provide alternative options for postsecondary education after high school," Bergum said. "I tell students: 'Think about your interests and your strengths - and if that leads to career education training, that’s what you need."   Students from other schools were bused to Concord High and given a list of participating organizations to investigate, with a goal of visiting at least three information booths. They asked questions about training, costs, salaries, benefits and career opportunities. For example, students speaking to members of Ironworkers Local 378 learned that they can learn to weld through an apprenticeship program and can make $50 an hour to start and later up to $150,000 a year, then get retirement benefits after they finish their careers. Ygnacio Valley HS junior Bryan Ramirez, who got a chance to cut a piece of metal using a welding tool, said said he loved the hands-on experience. "It was fun," he said, adding that he was also interested in plumbing and electrician training opportunities. Meanwhile, YVHS senior Angelica Saldierna donned a tool belt and worker's gloves before using pliers and wire cutters to twist wires around rebar, then cut off the ends. She also said she was having fun and was glad she came to the event. "I wanted to see what other careers there are so I have more ideas and more options, so I can try something new," she said, adding that she liked ironworking, but was also interested in going to college to major in criminal investigation, which she explored at the Los Medanos College booth.  And Concord HS sophomore Hunter Wasserman enjoyed putting on firefighters' gear at the CONFIRE booth, and checking out the variety of training opportunities available. "A lot of kids my age don't know what they want to do and I think being a firefighter would be good because you can be a first responder." He was also interested in military options such as the Coast Guard, but said he appreciated being able to see academic, trades and public agencies such as police all in one place. Bergum said she and the other organizers plan to continue the fair next year, always aiming to provide more opportunities to more students. "I'm super passionate about this project," she said. "I just want everyone to feel like they have a chance to do something meaningful after graduation. And after the COVID isolation, just building 'soft skills' talking to the representatives is a really good thing for the kids." Click on the Social Media posts below to see more highlights from the event. District News Intradistrict Transfer applications for students in grades 6-12 in 2024-25 available through Nov. 15 Families who want to apply for Intradistrict Transfers for students who reside inside the MDUSD boundaries and are requesting to transfer to another MDUSD school can fill out an application to select a preferred school through November 15th. Intradistrict Transfers are: •    For students who will be in grades 6-12 in the 2024-25 school year •    Available Oct. 15-Nov. 15, 2023 •    Only available by completing an online application on this website: Intradistrict Transfers The transfer application (in English and Spanish) is  here . Only one transfer application will be processed per student per academic year. Unassigned Area High School Choice applications are now available for 2024-25 and 2025-26 Families of 7th and 8th-graders who live in an Unassigned High School Attendance Area can now fill out an application to select a preferred high school for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years. Unassigned Area High School Choice information: •    Application opened Oct. 15, 2023 for the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 school years •    Application is available for 7th and 8th graders currently living in the Unassigned High School Attendance Area (Diablo View MS and Pine Hollow MS attendance areas) •   District high school resident status for unassigned high school areas is only available by completing the online application on this website:  Unassigned Area Students who live in the Diablo View and Pine Hollow Middle School attendance areas will be granted resident status instead of unassigned status by selecting one of the following high schools as their home high school: College Park High School Concord High School Mt. Diablo High School Northgate High School Ygnacio Valley High School Growing Healthy Kids Autumn Harvest Fair is Saturday, Oct. 21st at Riverview Middle School Every fall, the Growing Healthy Kids program holds a FREE workshop and gathering to give staff and students the chance to experience the joys of the garden and the harvest.  This year's Harvest Fair event is from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 21 in the Riverview Middle School Garden at 205 Pacifica Ave. in Bay Point. Activities for all ages will include cooking squash flatbread, apple tasting, a "tree passport," crafts, games and more! Additional information is in the attached flyers. RSVP on the Growing Healthy Kids events web page .  Red Ribbon Week is October 23-31: Be Kind To Your Mind. Live Drug Free.  The Mt. Diablo Unified School District recognizes "Red Ribbon Week" from October 23-31, 2023. The MDUSD Governing Board adopted a resolution in recognition of Red Ribbon Week.  "The Red Ribbon Week Campaign theme promotes responsibility for living healthy, drug-free lifestyles, without illegal drugs or the illegal use of legal drugs," the resolution says, adding that the Governing Board "encourages its staff and students to participate in drug prevention education activities, making a visible statement that we are strongly committed to a drug-free community." The Board urges its students, parents/guardians, teachers, administrators, and employees to pledge ongoing support of the 2023 Red Ribbon Week Theme: "Be kind to your Mind. Live Drug Free."  MDUSD Board to meet Wednesday to receive presentations, approve IB instructional materials  The Mt. Diablo Unified School District Board will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25 in the District Office Board Room to receive presentations on Westwood Elementary's Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program, Recommendations to Improve Services for Refugee and Immigrant Youth, and the Pros and Cons of Districtwide Project Labor Agreements. The Board also expects to approve International Baccalaureate instructional materials, among other items. The complete agenda is here . MDUSD’s 11th Annual College Fair is Thursday, Oct. 26th at Ygnacio Valley HS The 11th Annual MDUSD College Fair will be held from 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, October 26 in the Ygnacio Valley High School Gym at 755 Oak Grove Road in Concord. The MDUSD College Fair is only open to students attending an MDUSD High School or MDUSD Adult Education Program (student ID or proof of attending an MDUSD Adult program required). The fair is geared towards students in High School, particularly those in their Junior or Senior Year. Students will be able to meet representatives from colleges and universities across the country and more. Details are here and in the attached flyers. Cafecito Con Las Consejeras (Coffee with the counselors) Oct. 28 at Holbrook Language Academy Four MDUSD Latina Counselors will host "Cafecito con las Consejeras" (Coffee with the Counselors) from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 28 at the Holbrook Language Academy, Room 20, 3333 Ronald Way in Concord.  The counselors will chat with parents about academic success, colleges and universities, career exploration and other topics of interest. Hablamos Español. Please RSVP  here .  For more information, contact Angela Ordaz at ordaza@mdusd.org, Marcie Torres at torresmm@mdusd.org, Yaretzie Amaya at amaya@mdusd.org or Leidi Arias at ariasl@mdusd.org.  A spotlight on the counselors and their outreach is here . Please join the CARES Expanded Learning Program's annual Fall Fest on Saturday, Oct. 28th! Please join the CARES Expanded Learning Program for their annual FREE Fall Fest at the Bay Point Garden Academy from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, October 28th (next to Riverview Middle School at 205 Pacifica Ave in Bay Point). All District families are highly encouraged to attend (you don't need to be enrolled in the CARES program) as there will be various free, fun activities for students that include potion, broom, bendable mummy and wand-making along with face painting, games and food!  There will also be many different raffle prizes.  More information about the CARES Expanded Learning Program is at (925) 691-0351 or on the District website here .  We are hoping to see you at the Fall Fest! School News Ron Redding Field at Olympic HS gets new sign to honor retired teacher who coached softball Retired Olympic HS teacher Ron Redding stands proudly below a new sign leading onto the field that was named after him in 2011 in recognition of his work starting a softball team at the school (left). Redding, wearing his Olympic HS baseball jersey and cap, stands with Vice Principal Rick Correa and Principal Courtney Lyon (center) in front of the field named for him. MDUSD Maintenance & Operations Dept. (l-r) Director Melanie Koslow and carpenter Chris Swanson stand with Redding and M&O carpenter James Buscemi, administrative secretary Janet Richardson and glazier Ramon Rodriguez after installing the new sign on Oct. 16, 2023 (right). Below are three Olympic HS Softball teams coached by Ron Redding in the late 1990s and early 2000s, before the District built the regulation softball field in 2007. Although retired Olympic HS teacher Ron Redding is no longer a regular fixture on the continuation high school campus, he is still fondly remembered as one of the beloved educators and coaches who made a positive difference in the lives of countless students during his years teaching Social Studies and guitar. In fact, he was so dedicated to keeping his students motivated that he started up a softball team at the school, even though it wasn't part of the regular athletic divisions in which MDUSD's comprehensive high schools competed. Instead, Redding's fledgling teams participated in the California Continuing Education Association League, which was spread throughout the Bay Area and the state, Redding said. They went onto win league championships, even though they didn't have a regulation softball field at the school. They didn't get official jerseys until 2001, after printing their own T-shirts before that. Later, Chevron donated caps and a van the team used for transportation to games. That changed when the District decided to fund a new ball field for the school with 2002 Measure C and Proposition 55 money as part of a $2.9 million renovation at the school. The field was opened in 2007 and renamed and dedicated to him in 2011 after he retired. The original sign was made at Mt. Diablo HS in the wood shop out of a piece of wood donated by a parent in former teacher Jesse Forsland's class, Redding recalled. Forsland took over coaching the team after Redding stepped down from that position.  The teams eventually disbanded and now the school uses the field for P.E. and the District rents it out to community softball teams for their practices. Yet Redding, who is now 75, is pleased that his name is still memorializing his role in bringing athletic facilities and pride to the campus. "It looks fantastic," he said, as he gazed up at the sign, over the softball dugout facing Willow Pass Road, wearing his Olympic softball jersey and cap.  Olympic HS Principal Courtney Lyon said the field is the school's only athletic facility, since it doesn't have a gym. Students also use the grassy part of the field to play soccer, she added. "There is a lot of rich history here that is related to staff members," she said. "He is definitely one who is mentioned who was able to get kids excited about coming to school. I think that's one of the special things about Olympic. People here really care about the kids." Important Dates Oct. 21 : Growing Healthy Kids Autumn  Harvest  Fair   from 10 a.m. to noon in the Riverview Middle School Garden   Oct .  23-27 : Elementary minimum days for  Parent-Teacher conferences Oct. 25 :   MDUSD Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Board Room Oct. 26:  11th Annual MDUSD College Fair from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Ygnacio Valley High School Gym (See District News above) Oct. 30 :   MDUSD Board study session at 5 p.m. in the District Office Board Room Nov. 3:  End First Trimester   Weekly Organizational Update Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark publishes detailed District operations reports in our weekly Organizational Update to the Board. Click  here  or on the image below to view this week’s update from department leaders, which is also  archived  for reference on the District's website. The Friday Letter is written and compiled by MDUSD's Public Information and Community Relations Officer Theresa Harrington Brandt. Reach her at  brandtt@mdusd.org  for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Oct 21 2023

Friday Letter - October 13, 2023

OCTOBER 13, 2023 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 6 NO. 10 This issue highlights:  Lights on After-school event highlights MDUSD C.A.R.E.S. after-school programs in 23 schools! Special School Announcements: The Concord HS Marching Band wins Fleet Week HS Band Challenge; Fair Oaks Elementary community rallies to support student with Leukemia District news including School Board met Oct. 11th, MDUSD Teachers of the Year featured in videos, upcoming school and District meetings and events School news including Olympic HS opens a new Wellness Center, 3 schools celebrate Hispanic/Latinx Heritage month, and 2 high schools welcome college reps to their campuses Student social media shout-outs feature students from Monte Gardens Elementary, Holbrook Language Academy, Pine Hollow MS, and Concord, Mt. Diablo and Northgate high schools! Staff news about retired teachers returning as substitutes And more! Lights on After-school event highlights MDUSD CARES after-school programs CARES after-school program students showcase cheer and cultural performances during the "Lights On Afterschool" event (above). CARES Coordinator Eric Rego (l-r) and Holbrook Language Academy CARES Program Support Manager Jeremy Macahilig received a proclamation from Concord Councilwoman Carlyn Obringer along with CARES Managers Rosa Palomino and Nicole Prins and CARES Teacher Leader Cherie Gann; and CARES programs created display boards (below). MDUSD's C.A.R.E.S. (Collaborative for Academics, Recreation, & Enrichment for Students) Expanded Learning  Program celebrated 24 years of support for District students during a "Lights On Afterschool" event on Oct. 12th that highlighted the many activities available to students at 23 schools. The event included student performances showcasing cheer and cultural dances - as well as art, robotics, and sports. In addition, each program created a display board with photos spotlighting students engaged in gardens, STEM, homework help, clubs and other programs. Cambridge Elementary CARES cheer coach Vianney Juarez said she was proud of the boys and girls in the 7-member cheer squad, which includes students in grades 3-5, for their enthusiasm, hard work and "positive energy." Student Ronald Flores said he was happy that both boys and girls were welcome to cheer together for the Cambridge Coyotes. Program coordinator Karen Garcia said the Cambridge program also includes Girl Scouts, journalism, cooking and other activities that give students a variety of experiences that help build their self-confidence and create friendships. Riverview Middle School "student ambassadors" led visitors around the campus to see various activities such as art, robotics and sports. Mia Juarez, a 7th-grader, and 8th grader Mayrely Gonzalez said they enjoy participating in their after-school program, which includes a garden, opportunities to cook, create artwork and get homework help. While walking by students creating pumpkin-themed art led by Dominique, Mayrely said: "She's one of the best teachers here!" Gregory Gardens Principal Katie Koontz said she is especially excited about a new before-school program on her campus that allows parents to drop off students at 7 a.m. before they head to class at 7:50 a.m., in addition to the after-school program. Riverview MS sports coach Mr. E.J. said he loves working in the program, which helps students from different backgrounds get to know each other better and learn from each other, as well as from the program leaders.  Concord Councilwoman Carlyn Obringer presented a proclamation to the CARES programs, noting that they build stronger communities because they involve students, parents, and business and community leaders. Citig the programs' academic enrichment, science, technology, engineering and math, garden and recreation, homework help, computer science, and arts and crafts themes, Obringer said the Concord City Council enthusiastically endorses lights on after-school and recommends that their community participate in after-school activities to ensure that "the lights stay on and the doors stay open." Click on the tweets below to see more highlights from the event. Special school announcements Congrats to the Concord HS Marching Band on winning the SF Fleet Week HS Band Challenge Concord HS Marching Band members pose with their SF Fleet Week HS Band Challenge 1st place trophy and $10,000 check (above). The CHS marching band wowed the judges (below) during a 20-minute performance on the Golden Gate Park Bandstand.  Congratulations to the Concord HS Marching Band, which was named the 1st place winner in the San Francisco Fleet Week Band Challenge in their first-ever appearance at the event on Oct. 9th!  "Each band had 20 minutes to wow the judges," said Principal Julene MacKinnon. "Although they weren’t the biggest band there, the judges said they put on a set which showcased 'audience engagement, diversity, inclusion, and so much energy!' Their show earned them 1st place, $10,000, and the title of Best Band in the Bay!" You can see a video clip of their performance here . And you can watch this KPIX news report about how hard they practiced beforehand to beat last year's champion Pittsburg HS, which came in second place this year! Rallying Together for Mustafa - A Call for Community Support from Fair Oaks Elementary Principal Earlier this week, Fair Oaks Elementary Principal Carolyn Hull shared the message below with her school community regarding a 1st-grade student who has been diagnosed with leukemia. With the family's permission, we are sharing it in the Friday Letter, "I am writing to you with a heavy heart as I share some challenging news that has affected one of the amazing families within our school community. Recently, we learned that one of our 1st grade students, Mustafa, has been diagnosed with leukemia. This heartbreaking diagnosis has had a profound impact on Mustafa and his family, including his older sister and younger brother, who are also students at Fair Oaks.  It reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of coming together as a community to offer support and comfort during difficult times. A  GoFundMe has been established to help Mustafa's family with the financial burdens that will arise during this time. Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant difference. We will also be planning ways that our students can provide ongoing love and support for Mustafa and his family. We understand that everyone's circumstances are different, and any form of support, be it financial or emotional is genuinely appreciated.  We know that this may come up at home and that discussing such a sensitive topic with your child may be difficult. To assist you in this process, I'm including a resource to learn more about talking to your child about cancer ( English |  Spanish ). Also, our school counselors and support staff will be available to provide guidance and answer any questions you may have. Please keep Mustafa and his family in your thoughts and prayers as they embark on this challenging path. Thank you for your support, empathy and love. Together, we can provide their family with strength and hope during this challenging time. With warm regards, Carolyn Hull, Principal" District News School Board met Wednesday to proclaim Red Ribbon Week, "sunshine" MDEA proposals The Mt. Diablo Unified School District Governing Board met Oct. 11th to proclaim Oct. 23-31 as " Red Ribbon Week " and "sunshine" initial successor agreement proposals for the MDEA teachers' union, among other items.  The complete agenda is here .  MDUSD and Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year Joseph Alvarico featured in KRON report Ygnacio Valley HS engineering teacher Joseph Alvarico, who has been named one of two Contra Costa County Teachers of the Year and has advanced to the CA Teacher of the Year competition, was recently featured in a KRON interview along with with Freedom HS teacher Annalouisa Gonzalez-Ortega. An immigrant from the Philippines, Alvarico offers a unique perspective on the importance of education in his life, as MDUSD celebrates Filipino American History Month in October. The state expects to name the California Teachers of the Year later this month. MDUSD and Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year Finalist Danya Townsend featured in Video Danya Townsend, an MDUSD Teacher of the Year who was named a Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year Finalist for her work at Olympic HS, is featured in a County Video Profile that spotlights her dedication to her students. “I truly enjoy seeing students have new experiences, knowing that those opportunities could change the trajectory of their life or give them options and opportunities that they might not have had otherwise," she said. "And seeing them thrive in different surroundings is such a special gift to receive. There’s no other reason to teach except for the students.” Townsend is now a vice principal at Riverview MS in Bay Point. MDUSD Board Member Debra Mason honored as one of 53 “Women of the Year” by Congressman Congratulations to MDUSD Board Member Debra Mason, who was honored on Oct. 12th by Congressman John Garamendi as one of 53 "Women of the Year" from the 8th Congressional District of California who are leaders and visionaries in their communities. "The service and dedication each honoree has shown their community is deserving of recognition, and by receiving this award, their work will be commemorated and chronicled at the Library of Congress in Washington, DC." Garamendi said. Mason was recognized for her work as the Executive Director of the Bay Point Community Foundation and the Bay Point Municipal Advisory Council, as well as her service on the MDUSD Board, her work with after-school programs, and her advocacy for students, parents, schools, and her community. Bike.PHE Community Family Fest & Swap is Saturday, Oct. 14th at Pleasant Hill Elementary The Bike.PHE Community Family Fest & Swap is Saturday, Oct. 14th at Pleasant Hill Elementary! The community event will include bike riding, vendors, activities, food and fun for 2-11 year olds and their families!!  The Fest will include stations for kids to visit and earn stamps on their passport and charms! Every child gets a free raffle ticket to enter to win items from participating vendors. Adults can enjoy Ecargo and Ebike demos on our car-free blacktop! Other fun activities will include riding obstacle courses, learning how to fix bikes, getting a function check from our free mechanic station, decorating bikes with reflectors, food trucks and prizes. The Swap will help facilitate bike sales and swaps. Fill out the form and bring your bike and Venmo details. Children's and adult bikes are welcome! Intradistrict Transfer and Unassigned Area High School Choice applications available Oct. 15th Starting Sunday, Oct. 15th, families who want to apply for Intradistrict Transfers for students who reside inside the MDUSD boundaries and are requesting to transfer to another MDUSD school or who live in an Unassigned High School Attendance Area can fill out an application to select a preferred school. Intradistrict Transfers are: •    For students in grades 6-12 in the 2024-25 school year •    Available Oct. 15-Nov. 15, 2023 •    Only available by completing an online application here: Intradistrict Transfers Unassigned Area High School Choice information: •    Application opens Oct. 15, 2023 for the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 school years •    Application is available for 7th and 8th graders currently living in the Unassigned High School Attendance Area (Diablo View MS and Pine Hollow MS attendance areas) •   District high school resident status for unassigned high school areas is only available by completing the online application here: Unassigned Area Northgate HS to commemorate Harvey Milk Prop. 6 debate on campus on Monday, Oct. 16th The Northgate High School community will host a community event at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 16th to honor Harvey Milk, the first openly gay San Francisco City Supervisor, and the historic Proposition 6 debate that took place in the Northgate High School gymnasium 45 years ago between Milk and Republican state Sen. John Briggs. The event will feature special guest and student speakers, a viewing of film footage and photographs from the 1978 debate, and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque that will be installed in the Northgate High gymnasium. Proposition 6 was a 1978 ballot initiative that would have banned LGBTQIA+ people and their supporters from working in public schools. The debate took place at Northgate High School in September of 1978. More information is here . MDUSD's Parent/Family Advisory Committee meeting is Tuesday, Oct. 17th at Willow Creek Center MDUSD's Parent Advisory Committee will meet from 5:30-7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17 at Willow Creek Center, 1026 Mohr Lane in Concord. Agenda items include: Introductions, District Updates from Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark, A Food and Nutritional Services Department Update from Director Alexandra Emmott, and Announcements. The complete agenda is here . The PowerPoint presentation is  here . More information about the Parent Advisory Committee is here . Concord HS will host Career Education Fair on Wednesday, October 18th  Concord High School will host the annual District Career Education Fair from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 18th.   The school is partnering with the  MDUSD Career Pathways Program to bus students from across the District to this school-day event.  Seniors, juniors, and career pathway students are signing up for this event through their College & Career Advisors at each high school.  More than 40 representatives from Mt. Diablo Adult Education, community colleges (such as DVC, LMC, CCC, and Laney College), trades and apprenticeship programs (such as plumbers, iron workers, carpenters, pile drivers, electricians, and more), healthcare training programs, digital and graphic arts programs, public service training programs, cosmetology, hospitality and the military will be available to connect with MDUSD students to help them explore their futures. Details are in the attached flyer . Fentanyl Awareness: Facts and Tools to Save a Life event is Thursday, Oct. 19 at College Park HS MDUSD's next Fentanyl Awareness: Facts and Tools to Save a Life event is at 6 p.m. Thursday, October 19 in the multi-use room at College Park High School, 201 Viking Drive in Pleasant Hill. Check-in is at 5:30 p.m. The purpose of this event is to share the latest information and data about the dangers of fentanyl and train families and students how to recognize an opioid overdose and administer Narcan/Naloxone to try to save a life. Parents and their students are encouraged to attend. Use this link to register for the free event, which is sponsored by the College Park HS PTSA. Additional details are in the flyers. Growing Healthy Kids Autumn Harvest Fair is Saturday, Oct. 21st at Riverview Middle School Every fall, the Growing Healthy Kids program holds a FREE workshop and gathering to give staff and students the chance to experience the joys of the garden and the harvest.  This year's Harvest Fair event will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 21 in the Riverview Middle School Garden at 205 Pacifica Ave. in Bay Point. Activities for all ages will include cooking squash flatbread, apple tasting, a "tree passport," crafts, games and more! Additional information is in the attached flyers. RSVP on the Growing Healthy Kids events web page .  MDUSD’s 11th Annual College Fair is Oct. 26th at Ygnacio Valley HS The 11th Annual MDUSD College Fair will be held from 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, October 26 in the Ygnacio Valley High School Gym at 755 Oak Grove Road in Concord. The MDUSD College Fair is only open to students attending an MDUSD High School or MDUSD Adult Education Program (student ID or proof of attending an MDUSD Adult program required). It is geared towards students in High School, particularly those in their Junior or Senior Year. Students will be able to meet representatives from colleges and universities across the country and more. Details are in the attached flyers. Cafecito Con Las Consejeras (Coffee with the counselors) Oct. 28 at Holbrook Language Academy Four MDUSD Latina Counselors will host "Cafecito con las Consejeras" (Coffee with the Counselors) from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 28 at the Holbrook Language Academy, Room 20, 3333 Ronald Way in Concord. The counselors will chat with parents about academic success, colleges and universities, career exploration and other topics of interest. Please RSVP here . For more information, contact Angela Ordaz at ordaza@mdusd.org, Marcie Torres at torresmm@mdusd.org, Yaretzie Amaya at amaya@mdusd.org or Leidi Arias at ariasl@mdusd.org. A spotlight on the counselors and their outreach is here . School News Olympic HS opens a new Wellness Center Congratulations to Olympic and Alliance HS, which held a Grand Opening for its new Wellness Center on Oct. 12th! The festive event included games, food, face painting, and other fun things "to celebrate this special space for our students," said Principal Courtney Lyons. Social Work Specialist Emilio Perdomo, Social Work intern Mariano Villalon, and Lyons welcomed various District staff and Board Members who attended. Students were all smiles and fully engaged in painting, drawing, games and other fun, healthy activities.  "A special thank you to all who came out to celebrate with our community today," the school staff said in a tweet , which features a video highlighting the event. "This space is truly special for the Oly family, and we couldn't be prouder to show it off! Come one, come all- there’s a space for you here " Valle Verde Elementary, Pine Hollow MS and Mt. Diablo HS celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month During Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, several District schools have celebrated in a variety of ways. At Valle Verde Elementary (above left) "Mr. Liebe’s 5th graders have spent the last few weeks honoring Hispanic Heritage Month by learning about astronauts, artists, athletes, musicians, actors, writers, and politicians (the list goes on)," according to a school Instagram post . "Students chose a focal person, researched their life and notable achievements, and created a pennant that will be added to a banner and will be on display for others to see and learn more about. Awesome job! 💙💛" Meanwhile, students at Pine Hollow MS (above center) enjoyed a performance by Grupo L to help them celebrate. And students at Mt. Diablo HS (above right) celebrated Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month with Lotería and fruta picada during lunch!   "   Concord HS and Mt. Diablo HS students learn about college options from DVC and CSU reps Concord High's College and Career Center recently hosted representatives from five colleges to speak to students about their course offerings and student activities. The largest event was 'DVC Day,' where students were able to go to the College and Career Center to talk to more than a dozen groups from Diablo Valley College, said teacher Rebecca Dell. “At the event, different groups set up tables with information, flyers, and swag to hand out to students,” she said. ”Students could ask questions and get information about the different certificates and degrees offered at DVC, as well as make connections with staff at DVC. Mrs. Bergum, Concord High’s College & Career Advisor, organized the event and helped over 300 students find out information about DVC.” Smaller college visits included reps from UC Davis, Hawaii Pacific University, and San Francisco State. “So many options for our students!” the counselors tweeted . Mt. Diablo High's College and Career Center has also been busy welcoming college reps to its campus to speak to students about educational opportunities after graduation. During the past week, reps from Chico State told MDHS students about Chico's admission requirements, programs and school culture on Tuesday. Then on Wednesday, MDHS held its own " DVC Day ." And on Thursday, Sacramento State University presented campus updates and assisted MDHS students with their CSU applications! Student Social Media Shout-outs Students from Monte Gardens Elementary, Holbrook Language Academy, Pine Hollow MS, and Concord, Mt. Diablo and Northgate high schools are making a difference! It's exciting to see school's proudly tweeting about the accomplishments of their students, including those who are helping students from other schools or classmates at their own schools. Recent examples include Monte Gardens Elementary happily tweeting about Concord HS construction helping 4th-graders in their garden, and Holbrook Language Academy and Pine Hollow MS  highlighting the important work their TUPE (Tobacco Use Prevention Education) peer educators are doing to warn classmates about the dangers of smoking and vaping.  Meanwhile, Mt. Diablo HS is touting its medical career pathways students ' internship success, as well as the head-turning prowess of football player Herschel Turner, who was featured in a KTVU news report about the attention he is getting as he leads the nation in rushing his team to wins! Over at Northgate HS, Principal Kelly Cooper is pleased to report that the Girls Golf team is going into its last match undefeated! #MDUSDProud! Staff News In the News: Retired teachers return to substitute in MDUSD and other districts A recent Bay Area News Group news article highlighted MDUSD and other districts that are welcoming retired teachers back into classrooms as substitutes. The article featured Kathy Young, who retired in 2021 from teaching at Highlands Elementary School in Concord, then returned as a substitute who now spends five to 10 days a month subbing for both special and general elementary education classes. “(My pension) is enough to make the bills, but subbing pays for the extras,” said Young, who mentioned that teaching summer school helped her pay for an upcoming trip to Ireland. “I knew I wanted to be a teacher ever since I was a little girl … so (even when I retired), there was a pull back. Teaching is just what I do.” Thank you for your dedication to our students! Important Dates Oc t. 16 : Northgate HS  commemoration  of Harvey Milk debate at 6 p.m. in school gym Oct .  16-27 : Elementary minimum days for  Parent-Teacher conferences Oct. 17:  Parent Advisory Committee  meeting  at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center Oct. 18 :   Career Education  Fair  from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Concord HS (See District News above) Oct. 19:  District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC)  meeting  at 5:30 p.m.; Fentanyl Awareness: Facts and Tools to Save a Life at 6 p.m. College Park High School (See District News above; registration is required to receive free Narcan)   Oct. 21 : Growing Healthy Kids Autumn  Harvest  Fair   from 10 a.m. to noon in the Riverview Middle School Garden   Oct. 25 :   MDUSD Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Board Room Weekly Organizational Update Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark publishes detailed District operations reports in our weekly Organizational Update to the Board. Click here or on the image below to view this week’s update from department leaders, which is also archived for reference on the District's website. The Friday Letter is written and compiled by MDUSD's Public Information and Community Relations Officer Theresa Harrington Brandt. Reach her at  brandtt@mdusd.org  for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Oct 14 2023

Friday Letter - October 6, 2023

OCTOBER 6, 2023 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 6 NO. 9 This issue highlights:  October is Disability Awareness, Dyslexia Awareness, LGBTQ+ History, Filipino American History, and Anti-Bullying Awareness Month Spotlight on Special Olympics Young Athletes and buddy program at Robert Shearer Preschool and Gregory Gardens Elementary District news including no school Monday and National School Lunch Week surprises next week School news including a One School, One Book Celebration at Highlands Elementary and a Walk and Roll event at Holbrook Language Academy Student news features Concord HS band members to compete in the Fleet Week Band Challenge on Monday! Community News about the county seeking input regarding Youth Centers coming to Central and East county And more! October is Disability Awareness, Dyslexia Awareness, LGBTQ+ History,  Filipino American History, and Anti-Bullying Awareness Month   The MDUSD Board has recognized October, 2023 as:  Disability Awareness Month Dyslexia Awareness Month Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning History Month Filipino American History Month and  Anti-Bullying Awareness Month . Click on the links above to read the Board resolutions. Special Olympics Young Athletes and buddy program at Robert Shearer Preschool and Gregory Gardens Elementary builds meaningful relationships between students Robert Shearer Preschool student Greyson Lutz, 3, holds hands with a Gregory Gardens 5th-grade buddy (above left) and gets soccer advice from Gregory Gardens buddy Liam George (below right). Preschool student Joseph Ardans, 4, high-fives his Dad after playing basketball (above right) and Preschool student Valeria (below left) kicks a soccer ball as Gregory Gardens buddy Josh Isaacs watches the action on the field. Robert Shearer Preschool students, parents and staff members joined 5th-grade "buddies" at Gregory Gardens Elementary on their playground on Tuesday, Oct. 3rd for the Second Annual Special Olympics Young Athletes program, which helps the youngsters - who are all in special education classes - to learn about sports while also building their social skills. The preschool students are in a variety of special needs programs, such as for deaf, hard of hearing, autism and other disabilities, including some who work with speech therapists. Currently, 80 students are enrolled in the school, but site administrator Jessica Phillips said she anticipates it will reach its capacity of 150 students by the winter holiday as new 3-year-olds enroll.  Sheri Roberti, the Special Olympics Schools Partnership Program coordinator for the Contra Costa County Office of Education, said the buddies regularly interact with the preschoolers and learn to understand their disabilities, as part of a "unified" sports program that extends from elementary through high school grades to help prevent bullying of students with disabilities and promote inclusiveness. The Young Athletes Program introduces preschool students to sports and physical activities they may have never tried before, including soccer, baseball, crawling through tunnels and walking on low balance beams.  Erin Anderson's 4-year-old son Joseph Ardens smiled brightly as he tossed basketballs into low hoops with the aid of Gregory Gardens buddies and encouragement from his parents. "This is wonderful," said Anderson, who is a special education assistant. "It's good for them to get in some community play and get some exposure to turn-taking. And it's building great social skills." Brandon Lutz, whose 3-year-old son Greyson enjoyed playing soccer and baseball with his older buddies, was also impressed by the program. "I think it's great," he said. "Just seeing him out really engaged with other people and other activities - he just seems really joyful, and that's really great to see." Gregory Gardens buddies Josh Isaacs and Liam George said they enjoy working with the younger kids. "It's really fun," Josh said, as he showed preschoolers how to kick the soccer ball. "I like seeing all the little kids smile." Liam agreed, saying he recalls being involved in a different "buddy" program at the school when he was a 1st-grader and he was paired up with an older 3rd-grader who befriended and mentored him. "I think it's a great idea," he said.  Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark was also smiling happily as he cheered for the young athletes. He said he appreciates the access the program provides for all students to engage in sports with supportive children and adults. "You can see just how special this is," he said. "I'm glad that we do this and I'm happy to support it." Phillips coordinated with Gregory Gardens Principal Katie Koontz to launch the program on their joint campus. "It's a really lovely partnership," Phillips said. "It was one of our favorite days for both of us last year. The benefits are innumerable. It's been incredibly positive." She said it builds empathy in the elementary school children and helps them to feel like they are making an important difference in the lives of their young buddies.  Koontz agreed. "We love our year-long volunteering partnership with our Robert Shearer Preschoolers," she said. "The strong bonds our students are building are so sincere - they truly connect with each other on a different level. It is wonderful to have this showcasing event where we can see their friendships blossoming and share those relationships with their teachers and parents. Not only is this a powerful and inspiring day for our young athletes, but our 5th grade volunteers shine in this role. You can see their compassion and strong leadership skills coming out in their interactions. As we continue this annual tradition, it will become a highlight of the school year for students and our staff. It is an annual event that links our entire District, bringing our special education and general education teams together." Click on the Social Media posts below to see more highlights from the event., including a video (below left). District News No school Monday for Teacher In-Service, School Lunch Week surprises next Tuesday through Friday There will be no school on Monday, Oct. 9th due to a Teacher In-Service Day. District Offices will be open. School will resume on Tuesday, Oct. 10th, when the District will celebrate National School Lunch Week through Oct. 13th and the Week of the School Administrator through Oct. 14th. All elementary schools will celebrate school lunch week with “tray days," where students will receive special prizes from the cafeteria. We continue to offer a variety of local produce including watermelon and are featuring organic cherry tomatoes and fresh Jicama in salad bars. View our full menus here . The School Board has also recognized Oct. 9 as Indigenous Peoples Day . Surrogate parents sought for unaccompanied and foster youth students MDUSD's Foster Youth and HOPE (Homeless Outreach Program for Education) programs are seeking volunteer surrogate parents for unacccompanied and foster youth students.  Duties include standing in for special education IEP meetings, making decisions related to graduation and educational placement, and student advocacy.  To qualify, surrogate parents cannot have a conflict of interest that might restrict or bias their ability to advocate for a student's free appropriate public education. Free training will be provided.  For more information or to sign up for the training, please contact Program Specialist Rosie Reid at 925-682-8000 ext. 6242 or reidr@mdusd.org. School Board meets Wednesday to proclaim Red Ribbon Week, "sunshine" proposals The Mt. Diablo Unified School District Governing Board will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 11th in the District Office Board Room to proclaim Oct. 23-31 as "Red Ribbon Week" and "sunshine" initial successor agreement proposals for the MDEA teachers' union, among other items. The agenda is here .  Promethean ActivPanel Update: 26 sites are fully deployed As MDUSD continues to rollout Promethean ActivPanels Districtwide, Educational Technology Coordinator Erin Vallejo reports that 26 sites "are fully deployed." The District is delivering about 75 to 100 panels per week to various sites. The District also plans to provide its Tech Integration Leaders (known as TILs) with a Promethean STEAM Forward Workshop next month, which will include national Promethean virtual live training along with MDUSD-specific discussions on how to apply the curricular ideas in our district, Vallejo said. MDUSD Adult Education offers Parent Education Classes in English and Spanish MDUSD's Adult Education program is offering several Parent Education Courses in English and Spanish, including: Anger Management for Teens and their Parents  (in English), Taller del Trauma y Recuperación y Bienestar (in Spanish), Loving Solutions (in English), From Trauma to Wellness Workshop (in English), and Clase Para la Crianza de los Hijos (in Spanish). See the attached flyers or click here for more information.  MDUSD's Adult Education Program offers several Lifelong Learning courses this fall MDUSD's Adult Education Program is offering dozens of lifelong learning courses this fall in a variety of areas including cooking (left), crafts, finance, fitness, home improvement, personal enrichment, technology, and woodworking. Details are in the October Lifelong Education newsletter here , in the Adult Education Course Catalogue here or on the Adult Education website  here .  You can register for courses online here .  Lights On Afterschool event is Thursday, Oct. 12th at Riverview Middle School The MDUSD CARES Expanded Learning Program would like to invite you to celebrate this year's Lights On Afterschool event on Thursday, October 12th from 3:45-5:15 p.m. at Riverview Middle School. This year's event will spotlight enrichment programs and community partners with hands-on activities from elementary through high school, with a focus on students engaging in activities that inspire a generation of innovators.  CARES will showcase the many ways expanded learning programs are serving their communities and providing opportunities to learn and grow. Activities will include student art galleries, STEM-based learning, drone and robotics camps, sports, student performances, the "Rethink Your Drink" campaign, garden education and more.  Please join us as we celebrate Lights On Afterschool and support expanded learning programs across the nation all month long. Bike.PHE Community Family Fest & Swap is Oct. 14th at Pleasant Hill Elementary The Bike.PHE Community Family Fest & Swap is coming on Saturday, Oct. 14th at Pleasant Hill Elementary! It’s an awesome community event of bike riding, vendors, fun, and food and is fun for 2-11 year olds!! 🌮🚲🎉 For the Fest: we will have a number of stations for kids to visit and earn stamps on their passport and CHARMS! Every child who comes gets a free raffle ticket to enter to win items from Mike’s Bikes, WheelKids, Honeystinger and more! For adults there will be Ecargo and Ebike demos to try out with Mike’s Bikes on our car-free blacktop! Other fun things to do: Ride obstacle courses (from Cleary Bikes and WheelKids), Learn how to make basic fixes on your bikes, Get a proper function check from our free mechanic station with First Mile Cycle Works, Decorate bikes with reflectors, Food trucks and prizes. For the Swap: If you need to upsize your bike, fill out the form and bring your bike and Venmo account to the Swap. We will sell your bike for you! Need to buy? Come down and find the right size for your growing child! Also adult bikes are welcome! Northgate HS to commemorate Harvey Milk Prop. 6 debate on campus on Oct. 16th The Northgate High School community is hosting a community event at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 16th to to honor Harvey Milk, the first openly gay San Francisco City Supervisor, and the historic Proposition 6 debate that took place in the Northgate High School gymnasium 45 years ago between Milk and Republican state Sen. John Briggs. The event will feature special guest and student speakers, a viewing of film footage and photographs from the 1978 debate, and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque that will be installed in the Northgate High gymnasium. Proposition 6 was a 1978 ballot initiative that would have banned LGBTQIA+ people and their supporters from working in public schools. Supervisor Milk debated state legislator Briggs, the author of the initiative, at Northgate High School in September of 1978.  Proposition 6 was defeated two months later, largely due to the coordinated resistance efforts of Milk and other activists. Supervisor Milk was assassinated three weeks after the ballot initiative’s defeat. His debate with Sen. Briggs at Northgate High School was one of his final public appearances. A re-enactment of the debate was featured in the Oscar Award-winning film, Milk.  The event will be headlined by guest speakers Stuart Milk (President, The Harvey Milk Foundation/nephew of Harvey Milk), Dr. Jonathan Lee (President, The Rainbow Community Center Board of Directors), and County Supervisor Ken Carlson. Mt. Diablo Unified School District leadership, Northgate teachers, and Northgate students will also share reflections.  Concord HS will host Career Education Fair on October 18th  Concord High School will host the annual District Career Education Fair on Wednesday, October 18 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.  Concord High is partnering with the MDUSD Pathways program to bus students from across the District to this school-day event.  Seniors, juniors, and career pathway students are signing up for this event through their College & Career Advisors at each high school site.  Representatives from community colleges, trades and apprenticeship programs, healthcare training programs, digital and graphic arts programs, public service training programs, cosmetology, hospitality and the military will participate.  Fentanyl Awareness: Facts and Tools to Save a Life event is Oct. 19 at College Park HS MDUSD's next Fentanyl Awareness: Facts and Tools to Save a Life event will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, October 19, 2023 in the multi-use room at College Park High School, 201 Viking Drive in Pleasant Hill. Check-in is at 5:30 p.m. The purpose of this event is to share the latest information and data about the dangers of fentanyl and train families and students how to recognize an opioid overdose and administer Narcan/Naloxone to try to save a life. Parents and their students are encouraged to attend this event. Use this link to register for this event, which is sponsored by the College Park HS PTSA. The event will include information from Mariella Sanding of the CCC Meds Coalition and from the Tobacco Use Prevention Education Program (TUPE), details about health support on our school campuses, parent voices and a student panel, and distribution of Naloxone (Narcan). Seating is limited and reservations are required to receive the free Narcan. Growing Healthy Kids Autumn Harvest Fair is Oct. 21 at Riverview Middle School Every fall, the Growing Healthy Kids program holds a FREE workshop and gathering to give staff and students the chance to experience the joys of the garden and the harvest. This year's Harvest Fair event will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 21 in the Riverview Middle School Garden at 205 Pacifica Ave. in Bay Point. RSVP on the Growing Healthy Kids EVENTS web page . Information is also in the attached flyers.  School News   One School, One Book Celebration at Highlands Elementary Highlands Elementary held its Second Annual One School, One Book celebration on Oct. 2nd, after the entire school community read the book, "Gooseberry Park," by Cynthia Rylant. Fourth-grade teacher Laura Torrez (above left) organized the event and science teacher Jessica Langevin (above center) drew a mural illustrating the book's four main characters gathered around a tree. In addition to celebrating a love of reading, the school also unveiled two portable lending libraries that were handmade in partnership with Highlands alum Eagle Scout Nate Mahoney, said Principal Kelly DeTorres. The PTA purchased the books using money raised through a Read-a-thon, Torrez said. "I love to read and I love to get the kids excited about reading," she said, explaining that students read the books with their classmates in school, then go home and read them with their parents. Campus supervisors also read the book and chatted with students about it during recess. The theme of this year's book was friendship between the main characters, who were a squirrel, a dog, a hermit crab and a bat. Langevin said the program helped the school community feel unified around a common goal and theme. "It kind of brings us together," she said. Walk and Roll event at Holbrook Language Academy Holbrook Language Academy staff, parents, students and community members participated in a "Walk and Roll" walk and bike to school event on Wednesday, Oct. 4th sponsored by Street Smarts Diablo. Makenna Jacquet, 11, said she has been riding her bike or walking the two blocks from her home to school for the past seven years. Her mother, Erin Jacquet, said walking and biking is good for the environment and helps families get some exercise.  PFC President Briana Espindola, who walked to school with her two children, helped to coordinate the event. She said it promotes good health, while also building community. She also said she appreciated the Concord Police providing motorcycle officers to help keep the walkers and bikers safe.  Principal Silvia Orellana said the event has become an annual tradition at the school and is growing each year. "This is an incredible community event," she said. "It really brings us all together." Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark said he would like to see more schools participate. "It's a great event to get cars off the street," he said, adding that he was pleased to see so many families and community members involved. "I appreciate it." Click on the Social Media posts below to see highlights from Walk and Roll events at Holbrook, Pleasant Hill Elementary and Walnut Acres Elementary. Student News Concord HS band members to compete in the Fleet Week Band Challenge on Monday! Concord High School's Marching Band will take the stage in Golden Gate Park in San Francisco at 11 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 9th to compete to be named the Bay Area's Best Band in the "Fleet Week Band Challenge!" They are the only band in the District participating in the challenge and are determined to unseat last year's winner, Pittsburg High School, as the contender to beat. The KPIX news video above highlights the Contra Costa County high school marching band rivalry and the hours of practice Concord's band has been putting in to ensure they wow the judges next week! Community News Contra Costa County seeks input regarding Youth Centers coming soon Contra Costa County Employment and Human Services (EHSD) is pleased to announce several upcoming Community Engagement opportunities for all Contra Costa community members to offer input regarding new Measure X-funded Youth Centers coming soon to Central and East County. The feedback received from community members will be analyzed to identify emerging themes and takeaways which will then be used to create recommendations as to locations, ages served, and services provided for the future Youth Centers. This is YOUR chance to make your voice heard.  For more information on Measure X and the funded projects, please click here . For more information on the community input sessions, please click here . Important Dates Oct. 6 : End First Quarter Oct. 9 :   Teacher In-Service Day ; no school for students; District Offices open Oct. 11 : MDUSD Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Board Room Oct. 12 :   Lights on Afterschool event from 3:45-5:15 p.m. at Riverview MS (see District News above) Oc t. 16 : Northgate HS commemoration   of Harvey Milk   debate at 6 p.m. in school gym (see District News above) Oct .  16-27 : Elementary minimum days for  Parent-Teacher conferences Oct. 17:  Parent Advisory Committee meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center Weekly Organizational Update Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark publishes detailed District operations reports in our weekly Organizational Update to the Board. Click here or on the image below to view this week’s update from department leaders, which is also  archived for reference  on the District's website. The Friday Letter is written and compiled by MDUSD's Public Information and Community Relations Officer Theresa Harrington Brandt. Reach her at  brandtt@mdusd.org  for Friday Letter submissions.

Saturday, Oct 07 2023

Friday Letter - September 29, 2023

SEPTEMBER 29, 2023 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 6 NO. 8 This issue highlights:  Guest Spotlight on Ethnic Studies pilot at Northgate HS by teacher Meg Honey District news including the MDUSD Board hears report on CAASPP results, holds textbook sufficiency public hearing, and  approves resolutions in support of Disability Month, Dyslexia  Awareness Month, LGBTQ+ Month, Filipino American History Month, Indigenous Peoples Day, Anti-Bullying Awareness Month, California Day of the Administrator and School Lunch Month Staff Social Media Shout-out to School Bus Driver Tracy J.! Community News about the Break A Sweat 5K Fun Run and Walk for Education on Saturday at Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek Community News about Concord High March-a-Thon supporting Instrumental Music at the school And more! Guest spotlight on Ethnic Studies pilot at Northgate High School By Teacher Meg Honey Students actively engaging in class at Northgate High School. Ethnic Studies is Officially Launched at Northgate High School By Meg Honey, Teacher It has been an exciting and busy first quarter in Northgate High School’s brand new Ethnic Studies classes. Northgate is currently piloting two sections of Ethnic Studies, ahead of the 2025 course offering requirement , and our classes are made up of students from 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grade.  We spent the first part of the quarter exploring the concept of identity. Students have thoughtfully examined the components of their own identity as well as those of many other groups. They wrote moving and deeply personal “Where I’m From” poems, considering their families of origin and significant moments in their lives.  At the end of our identity unit, students utilized the vast collection of antiracist books in our classroom, donated by Rise Up Against Racism , to explore how the many dimensions of identity are celebrated in children's literature. Students learned about the research of Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop and thoughtfully applied her Mirrors, Windows, and Sliding Glass Doors framework in their analysis. Ethnic Studies students have also read and discussed poetry written by Japanese Americans who were incarcerated during World War II as a result of Executive Order 9066. Having the opportunity to consider the lived experiences, resiliency, and courage of the incarcerees and artistically represent the poems made for a meaningful learning experience for us all.  We are currently exploring the history of Ethnic Studies. Students have spent time learning about the 1969 student protests at San Francisco State University and UC Berkeley while analyzing the demands presented by the diverse student coalition of the Third World Liberation Front. The films “Walkout” and “Precious Knowledge” have expanded our understanding of student agency and serve as inspiring models for action. Thanks to a successful DonorsChoose campaign (and generous donors!), every Northgate student in Ethnic Studies has a copy of A Different Mirror for Young People to use as our seminar discussion text. Written by Ronald Takaki, the founder of UC Berkeley’s Ethnic Studies program, the adapted book uplifts the history of diverse groups through stories, poems, songs, images, and letters.  An upcoming field trip and class visits from guest scholars are planned as we look forward to our continued study of the four core groups at the center of Ethnic Studies: Indigenous people, African Americans, Chicanx/Latinx people, and the Asian American/Pacific Islander community. I am grateful for the professional learning community of educators who are teaching Ethnic Studies in our district or preparing to launch the course at their sites. We meet regularly and are working with the UC Berkeley History Social Science Project team as we build curriculum, discuss important components of the course, and collaborate on projects.  Senior Arya Shaghasi has enjoyed her experience in Ethnic Studies thus far and finds the class to be “very welcoming and informational.”  She appreciates the opportunity to “learn about my own identity and where I stand in society. Ethnic Studies has taught me many things that I use in my day-to-day life. Through the short time I have been in this class,   I have adapted my language and knowledge into understanding others. I am excited to learn more about myself and many diverse communities in the near future.”  Here’s to a great year of learning, listening, affirmation, and activism in Ethnic Studies! Ethnic studies is also offered at Mt. Diablo HS, Olympic HS and Ygnacio Valley HS and will be a graduation requirement at all CA high schools in 2025-26. District News MDUSD Board hears report on CAASPP results and holds textbook sufficiency public hearing The MDUSD Board of Education held a Public Hearing on Wednesday, September 27th regarding Textbook Sufficiency and adopted a resolution verifying that each K-12 pupil has sufficient textbooks and instructional materials in the four curricular areas for the 2023-2024 school year and certified that the textbooks are aligned to state standards. The Board also adopted several resolutions for the month of October and heard a report on CAASPP results.  Two new administrators were welcomed into MDUSD. Stacy Campbell was appointed as principal at Mountain View Elementary and Melanie Buck as Vice-Principal at Mt. Diablo Elementary.  Congratulations to both!  The complete meeting agenda is here . In addition, the board passed eight (8) resolutions in support of: Disability Awareness Month Dyslexia Awareness Month Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning Month Week of the School Administrator October 8-14, 2023 Filipino American History Month Indigenous Peoples Day October 9, 2023 Anti-Bullying Awareness Month National School Lunch Week October 9-13, 2023 2023-24 signed resolutions may be reviewed here . Secondary ELA materials under consideration available for public review at Willow Creek Center Secondary English Language Arts materials being reviewed for potential district adoption are available for public review weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m September 18 - 29 at the Willow Creek Center, 1026 Mohr Lane in Concord. Secondary ELA teacher teams are evaluating the materials using the ELA Adoption Selection Tool , which addresses the instructional shifts outlined in the CDE ELA/ELD Framework and the Common Core Standards for English Language Arts. Say Something Anonymous Reporting System Coming Soon Earlier this month, MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark sent a message to the District community regarding a new anonymous tip reporting system to be implemented in District middle and high schools. "The Say Something Anonymous Reporting System trains youth and adults how to recognize warning signs -- especially within social media -- of individuals who may be in crisis, and to tell a trusted adult directly or via the anonymous reporting system," he said. "Specifically, the Say Something program educates participants to: Recognize the warning signs of someone who may be at-risk of harming themselves or others; Take every warning sign and threat seriously; act immediately to get help by talking to a trusted adult OR reporting it through the telephone hotline, mobile app, or website that is available 24/7/365; Sustain the curriculum and awareness via student clubs, in-school activities, call-to-action weeks, and on-going trainings." This program is provided at no cost by Sandy Hook Promise (SHP), a national nonprofit organization. More than 14 million people have participated in their research-based “Know the Signs” programs that includes Say Something. Staff News Staff Social Media  Shout-out  to School Bus Driver Tracy J.! Community News  Break A Sweat 5K Fun Run and Walk for Education is Saturday at Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek The Break a Sweat for Education 5K Run and Walk and Kids Fun Run will take place on Saturday, Sept. 30th at Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek. Yours Humanly, the nonprofit that is organizing the event, has announced that the Northgate HS Madrigals will sing the National Anthem to open the 9th annual event, which is being held in partnership with the Mt. Diablo Education Foundation that supports STEAM enrichment and programs for District students. Details are  here . Families and community members are encouraged to participate, and can set up a team to walk or run at this event. Kids 10 and under can participate for free and earn a finisher medal, but must register and have the option to purchase a T-shirt. The registration cost for those over 10 is $45 through Sept. 29th. Registrants will earn finisher medals as well as T-shirts, if desired. Those who can't attend the event can register as Virtual Participants for $45 and complete the distance at their own convenience. A race t-shirt (if desired) and finisher medal will be mailed to these participants. Thanks to all who join in the fun! Concord High Instrumental Music March-a-Thon is this Saturday Concord High School's Instrumental Music Program's Annual March-a-Thon Fundraiser is Saturday, September 30th.  We kick off at 8AM with a new route this year! 6.5 miles long, with our usual route through Bishop Estates, however we are also adding in Dana Estates (a neighborhood where we know many of the families of our community reside). The marching band will be marching along, playing some songs, spreading the joy of music to our community as a thank you for their constant support. We will also be making stops for performances at Safeway on Denkinger mid-morning, and Dana Plaza near 7-11 late morning.  All donations on the spot of $100 or more receive a special performance right in front of their house. It’s going to be an incredible day!  Please click on the letter image for additional information. Battle of the Bands Brings More than 350 Students Together Group photo of Battle of the Band participants The 3rd Annual Battle of the Bands took place at Concord High on Saturday, September 23rd. Nine different schools from the district and surrounding area were there, showcasing their songs, moves, and spirit. The finale was a song performed by all the schools together; more than 350 students playing Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way.”   Each school performed their favorite songs, with a wide variety of songs from every decade from the 70s to today. The bands enjoyed a half time drum circle while the other sections had activities and games of their own. The overall feeling on the field was one of camaraderie and a celebration of music. Attendees brought canned food to support the Contra Costa Food Bank and the high schools had concession booths to raise money for their programs. CHS Band Director Martin Lejano and his students were setting up for the event starting at 8am, making sure that all participants and audience members had the best experience possible. Lejano has worked tirelessly to instill a love of music in his students, which was evidenced by their enthusiasm, spirit, and support of ALL bands during the program. The collaboration of the band directors, led by Lejano, clearly translates into the students’ love of music; their joy of playing was evident to all at this event. Important Dates Sept. 30 :   Break a Sweat for Education 5K  Run  at 8 a.m. in Heather Farm Park in Walnut Creek Sept. 30 : Concord High  March-a-Thon  through Bishop Estates at 8:am Oct. 3:  Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC)  meeting  at 7 p.m. in the District Office Board Room Oct. 6 : End First Quarter Oct. 9 :   Teacher In-Service Day ; no school for students; District Offices open Oct. 11 : MDUSD Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Board Room Oct .  16-27 : Elementary minimum days for  Parent-Teacher conferences Weekly Organizational Update Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark publishes detailed District operations reports in our weekly Organizational Update to the Board. Click here or on the image below to view this week’s update from department leaders, which is also archived for reference on the District's website. The Friday Letter is written and compiled by MDUSD's Public Information and Community Relations Officer Theresa Harrington Brandt. Reach her at  brandtt@mdusd.org  for Friday Letter submissions.

Friday, Sep 29 2023