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Friday Letter - November 8, 2024
NOVEMBER 8, 2024 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 7 NO. 13 Dear Mt. Diablo Unified School District Community, As we approach a three-day weekend, I'm excited to share accomplishments and opportunities happening across our District. Our students and staff continue to impress, and it's an honor to share their hard work and successes with you. Last night we held "You Make A Difference" awards , recognizing those employees who go above and beyond for our students with disabilities. Additionally, we’re cheering on the "GOATED Griffins," Foothill Middle School's First Lego League robotics team , as they head to their first competition in San Francisco on Saturday. They’ve designed, built, and programmed a robot to perform up to 15 tasks in just two and a half minutes. We're also proud to celebrate Northgate High School athlete Symone Jewell , who was recognized for her inspiring athletic talents in Girls Flag Football and Wrestling. Through the generosity of the Mt. Diablo Education Foundation , 4th and 5th graders from 11 elementary schools enjoyed a special performance by the California Symphony , an experience that opened doors to the arts for many of our students. Finally, students from Valley View and Pleasant Hill middle schools had the chance to explore hands-on career options in plumbing, fitting, welding, and service tech fields, thanks to a visit to the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices training center. We are also including Social Media School Highlights from: Meadow Homes, Gregory Gardens, Walnut Acres and Monte Gardens elementary schools Diablo View, Riverview and Sequoia middle schools Ygnacio Valley, Olympic, Mt. Diablo and Northgate high schools And we are featuring Staff Social Media Highlights from: Mt. Diablo HS, Hidden Valley Elementary, Pine Hollow MS and Concord HS, and Technology Integration Leader Spotlights from Holbrook Language Academy, College Park HS, the Bridge Program, Sequoia MS, Riverview MS Thank you for your continued support of our students and schools. There is no school Monday due to Veterans Day. Veterans Day is a time for us to honor and thank those who have served. Thank you, Dr. Adam Clark Superintendent Spotlights You Make A Difference Awards celebrate those positively impacting Special Ed. students You Make A Difference Award winners included Woodside Elementary Science Instructional Assistant Deidra Rader (above left), MDUSD Community Schools Coordinator Patricia Coronado (above center) and MDUSD Board Vice President Linda Mayo (above right). MDUSD Board President Erin McFerrin and Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark presented the awards. During a heartwarming gathering on Thursday, MDUSD's Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC) hosted its "You Make A Difference" Awards ceremony at Concord HS celebrating everyday superheroes who go above and beyond in the lives of students with disabilities. The event recognized 19 people who were nominated by District staff, parents and/or students for their exceptional work and the caring relationships they have built with students, parents and their colleagues. "Making a difference means ensuring these students have access to educational opportunities and feel safe in their school environment," said Board President Erin McFerrin, who presented the awards along with Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark. "We are so grateful for your incredible dedication and your boundless hearts. Please continue to do this amazing work." Dr. Clark added: "You all give so much of yourselves. Please accept the spotlight tonight as we recognize your wonderful work with our students." Dorothy Weisenberger, Community Advisory Committee chairperson, who is the parent of children with special needs, said, "My heart warms when I see and hear all the wonderful things you do. Thanks and congratulations to all of you." The award winners are: Keena Armstrong: Special Education Assistant at Monte Gardens Elementary Shawn Carman: Program Specialist at Walnut Acres Elementary Cherie Martin: Speech Therapist at Monte Gardens Elementary Katie Laushman: Deaf and Hard of Hearing early start teacher at Robert Shearer Preschool Sophie Wheeler: Special Education Teacher at Woodside Elementary Valarie Gebhart: Special Education Assistant at Woodside Elementary Deidra Rader: Science Instructional Assistant at Woodside Elementary Angelique Gomez: Special Educational Assistant in the Bridge program Nancy Spier: Special Education Assistant at Robert Shearer Preschool Emilie Paraan: Special Education Assistant at Oak Grove MS Elizabeth Butticci: Intensive Autism Teacher at Ygnacio Valley HS Karen Davis: Resource Teacher at Olympic HS Elizabeth Swanson and Nancy Espino: TK teacher and Instructional Assistant team at Silverwood Elementary Rosa Cornejo: Special Day Class aide at Mountain View Elementary Patricia Coronado: MDUSD Community School Coordinator Gabriella Lejano: Special Education Teacher at Sun Terrace Elementary Janine Payne: Community Advisory Committee Vice-Chair Linda Mayo: MDUSD Board Vice President - Lifetime Recognition Award Thank you and congratulations to all! Award winners also included Walnut Acres Elementary Program Specialist Shawn Carman (above left), Robert Shearer Preschool Special Education Assistant Nancy Spier (above center), and Woodside Elementary Special Education Teacher Sophie Wheeler (above right) . Foothill Middle School's "GOATed Griffins" robotics team heads to local competition The Foothill MS "GOATed Griffins" robotics team includes (back row, l-r) science teacher Adam Thompson, Mateen Lavine, Alex Baluta, Oliver Dong, Rhys Devine, science teacher Devin Jackson; (front row, l-r) Rhea Lokesh, Theo Zacks, Santi Wiesner, Landon Delveccio, Rowan Kloski and Mohammed Wafadar (above). Innovation team members Owen Ng, Alex Baluta, Nico Marin, Mateen Levine and Rhys Devine stand in front of their "Tide Turner" display (below left). The Innovation Team and teacher Devin Jackson interview Marine Mammal Center Teacher Engagement Specialist Raquel Rojas via Zoom (below right). Foothill MS in Walnut Creek is excited to be sending its FIRST LEGO League robotics team, called "The GOATed Griffins," to compete in a FIRST LEGO League Challenge on Saturday, Nov. 9 at Lowell HS in San Francisco. The team, which includes students in grades 6-8, has been working since August on designing, building and coding a Lego robot that can accomplish 15 tasks in the "Submerged" challenge, which deals with ocean exploration and conservation. Some students are on an "Innovation Team," which will present a solution to a real-world problem during the competition. The event, which is open to the public from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., will host 12 teams with a total of 81 students from seven cities. FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a global organization that inspires students to be science and technology leaders by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs. FIRST programs foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, teamwork and leadership. "We will always work together, practice together, and win together," said 7th-grader Oliver Dong. "But, even if we lose, we will do that together, too.” Their team name, GOATed Griffins, combines "Greatest Of All Time" with the school's griffin mascot. Sixth-grade science teachers Devin Jackson and Adam Thompson coach the team after school. Besides the 10-person competition team, the school has three other recreational teams, with a total of about 60 students participating on one of the four teams. Foothill students have participated in the competitions for about 10 years, Jackson said. The robotics team gets three attempts to complete as many tasks as possible in 2-minutes and 30-seconds, presenting their robot design to the judges. The team has come up with three different designs in the past few months, learning through trial and error how to refine the design so it will work most efficiently to accomplish tasks such as pushing and pulling objects, picking them up and placing them in specific areas. The special Lego kits have motors that can move the robot, which the students control through a coding program using their Chromebooks. The Innovation Team designed a solar and battery-powered boat that could collect water contaminated with oil after an oil spill, filter it and put it into containers. They designed their prototype using Google drawings and created a display board to show their concept to the judges. They interviewed Marine Mammal Center Teacher Engagement Specialist Raquel Rojas via Zoom on Wednesday to get feedback on their idea. She commended them on their creativity and research and encouraged them to continue to spread the word about the dangers of oil spills in the ocean. Students said they enjoy working together in teams, using their creativity and learning about engineering and STEM, which many of them are interested in pursuing as potential college majors and careers in the future. Go, GOATED Griffins! District News Annual Holiday Community Fair at Concord High School is Saturday, November 9 The Concord High School Parent Faculty Club will host its Annual Holiday Community Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, November 9 on the campus at 4200 Concord Blvd. in Concord. This festive, fun-filled event all ages is open to the public and will feature: local artisans and vendors, food and refreshments, and live entertainment including local school band and chorus performances. All proceeds from the event will go towards the PFC's support of student activities. “We’re thrilled to welcome families from all around the community to kick off the holiday season with us,” said Julene MacKinnon, Concord HS Principal. “This fair has something for everyone, and it’s a great way to celebrate the students and bring people together.” Admission is free, and parking will be available on-site. The fair will take place rain or shine. For more information or to become a vendor, please contact hackettn@mdusd.org or 925-412-4388. Intradistrict Transfer deadline is Sunday; No school Monday for Veterans Day Holiday Intradistrict Transfer Applications are available for all schools, grades 1-12 and for Sequoia and Monte Gardens elementary schools' Kindergarten through Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024. More information is here . MDUSD schools and District Offices will be closed on Monday, Nov. 11 for the Veterans Day Holiday . Schools and District Offices will reopen on Tuesday, Nov. 12. Board Briefs: Board meets Wednesday, Nov. 13th to make appointments, hear presentations The next Board meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13 in the District Office Boardroom to appoint a Director of Strategic Supports and Interventions, an Interim Chief of Human Resources, an Executive Director of Human Resources and Risk Management, an Operational Program Specialist for African American Student Achievement; and to hear presentations by Food and Nutrition Services on 2024-25 Cafeteria and Serving Redesigns, the Multilingual Department, and the 2024 California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) Results, among other items. The agenda is 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 . In the November election, Thomas McDougall was elected to represent MDUSD Board Area 5, replacing Board President Erin McFerrin , whose term expires in December. McDougall will be sworn in next month and is expected to assume his seat on the Board at the Dec. 18 meeting. Measure J Citizen's Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) meeting is Thursday, Nov. 14 The next Measure J Citizen's Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) meeting will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14 in the MDUSD Dent Center Board Room at 1936 Carlotta Drive in Concord. The meeting, which is open to the public, will also be live streamed here . The agenda is here . African American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) site rep meeting is Thursday, Nov. 14 The next African American Parent Advisory Committee (AAPAC) site representative meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday Nov. 14 at 235 Pacifica Ave. in Bay Point (Gateway High School). It will include check-ins with each site representative about the state of their respective AAPACs and the state of African American student achievement in their schools. The new African American Student Achievement Operational Program Specialist will also be introduced. K-8 Math Adoption Materials Review and Feedback extended through Friday, Nov. 15th The math materials under review will be continue to be available at Willow Creek Center 1026 Mohr Lane in Concord from Tuesday, November 12, to Friday, November 15, between 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. All are invited to review the materials and provide feedback, which will be considered in the evaluation process. So far, community members, parents, administrators, and teachers have visited. F entanyl Awareness & Facts and Tools to Save a Life event is Nov. 20 at Valley View MS Learning to recognize the symptoms of an opioid overdose and being ready to administer naloxone may save a life. Our next Fentanyl Awareness Event will be held at Valley View Middle School at 6 p.m. Nov. 20 including information and resources for families at 5:40 p.m. Snacks and water will be provided. Click on this link to register. Students can Earn College Credit While Still In High School through Dual Enrollment courses MDUSD is excited to announce that it is starting to recruit for the spring semester dual enrollment classes. Dual enrollment allows high school students to take college-level courses while still in high school and earn both high school and college credit for those courses. These courses are offered through partnerships between MDUSD and its high schools and Diablo Valley College (DVC). The benefits of dual enrollment are numerous: students can get a head start on their college education and potentially save time/money by completing college credits early. Classes part of MDUSD’s dual enrollment program are intended to help meet either a certificate requirement or a degree requirement. Dual Enrollment also provides exposure to the rigor of college coursework and helps students transition more smoothly to higher education. A typical college class will earn students one year of high school credit. Additionally, students earning a C or higher in a dual enrollment class will result in a GPA boost for that class – similar to an AP or honors class. Participating in this program demonstrates academic ambition, preparedness, and long term goal setting. Overall, this program offers an opportunity for students to challenge themselves, reduce future college costs, and accelerate their educational journey. MDUSD is offering seven dual enrollment classes this spring. While they are offered on different campuses, they are open to students across the District. Please note that students are responsible for getting themselves to the classes as MDUSD does not provide transportation . The courses include: Graphic Design at Concord HS online and T 3:30-5 pm.; Child Development and Psychology at Ygnacio Valley HS T, Th 3:45-5:10 pm; and Introduction to Community and Public Health M 3:30-4:55 pm, W 2:45-4:10 pm at Mt. Diablo HS . Take a look at our Dual Enrollment Flyer and Spring 2025 Dual Enrollment Schedule for locations, dates and times for all seven classes. Sign up for an information session here . Applications open on November 27! For more information, contact Jorge Salinas-Tognetti at Salinastognettij@mdusd.org and Amanda Witczack at witczaka@mdusd.org MDUSD Wellness Center News - November 2024 MDUSD's Social Work Specialists are pleased to present their November "Wellness Wrap" Newsletter, which highlights the Mt. Diablo HS Drug Awareness & Wellness Fair and the College Park HS Wellness Center. The newsletter also explains "Protect Presentations" to help students recognize the signs of Human Trafficking, and includes Mental Health Resources. The newsletter in English and Spanish is attached. More information about Wellness Centers is here . Support Office for Access and Resources (SOAR) seeks holiday donations through Dec. 20 Give More, Spread Joy - Support SOAR Students The Mt. Diablo Unified School District's Support Office for Access and Resources (SOAR Program - formerly HOPE) is accepting monetary contributions via check and Venmo @MDUSDSOAR. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of students. SOAR Populations Served Unhoused youth, foster youth, newcomers and refugees, LGBTQIA+, justice involved youth, human trafficking survivors, and other extreme circumstances. What Your Donations Provide In past years, donations have provided families with: a wheelchair, umbrellas, warm clothing, hygiene kits, belts, vital documents and other resources. Donations Requested by December 20, 2024 at Willow Creek Center 1026 Mohr Lane, Concord, CA 94519. (925-682-8000 x6242). MDUSD Student News Northgate HS Girls Flag Football Player/Wrestler Symone Jewell is "Inspirational Athlete" Congratulations to Northgate HS Girls Flag Football Player and Wrestler Symone Jewell, who was recently featured on Cal-Hi Sports as an "Inspirational Athlete! The video includes interviews with Symone, her Flag Football Coach Lauren Lahey, her brother Tyler, a senior who also wrestles for Northgate, and her Wrestling Coach Tim Sanchez. Lahey said the sophomore is the most competitive player on the field and Sanchez said she is fearless. The feature also highlights Symone's 2024 preseason Girls Wrestling anking at #28 in the country for 155 pounds, which the school recently announced on Instagram , as well as her NCS Championship win last year as a freshman! School News Mt. Diablo Education Foundation treats elementary students to Symphony performance MDUSD is grateful to the Mt. Diablo Education Foundation (MDEDF), which recently sponsored field trips for 4th and 5th-graders from 11 District Title 1 elementary schools to a special California Symphony Performance at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek. Students from Bel Air, Cambridge, Delta View (pictured above), El Monte, Fair Oaks, Meadow Homes, Rio Vista, Shore Acres, Sun Terrace, Wren Avenue, and Ygnacio Valley elementary schools attended the concert performance of Phiharmonia Fantastique: The Making of the Orchestra , which accompanied animation that introduced students to different instruments in sections of the orchestra with an animated sprite as their guide, said Matt Lovett, of the MDEDF. "The kids LOVED the performances," he said, adding that they applauded loudly after the finale. "For many, it was their first time in a performing arts venue or seeing a real symphony orchestra." Kim Chamberlain, a 4th grade teacher at El Monte Elementary, said her students loved the animation with the music because they could see the instruments and how they worked. "The music was so good, they thought it was a recording and had to keep looping back from the screen to the symphony to remind themselves they were real," she said. "They thought it was wonderful way to learn about the different instruments in the philharmonic." Thank you to the foundation and to the California Symphony for providing this amazing opportunity to our students! Valley View and Pleasant Hill middle school students visit trades training center Continuing a partnership that began last year with the Whole Child Institute started by Tom Torlakson, students from Valley View MS and Pleasant Hill MS were able to visit local trades groups to provide students with hands-on experiences in the trades, said Chris Clausen, Secondary School Support Administrator. "Students were able to view a welding demonstration, learn to connect their own circuit using electrician materials and how to make connections with brass piping." They visited the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices Local 342 (Union of Plumbers, Steamfitters, Welders, & Service Techs) Training Center, which offers a 5-year apprenticeship program in HVAC & Refrigeration, Plumbing, Steamfitting and Welding. Each specialty requires Local 342 apprentices to learn a comprehensive amount of technical knowledge regarding materials, procedures, and regulations. Thank you to Whole Child Institute and Local 342 for providing this opportunity to our students! School Social Media Highlights Meadow Homes, Gregory Gardens, Walnut Acres and Monte Gardens elementary schools MDUSD elementary schools have been busy with a variety of activities. Recent social media highlights include: Meadow Homes and Gregory Gardens elementary schools celebrating Diwali, 3rd-graders at Walnut Acres Elementary casting votes on election day, and students at Monte Gardens Elementary learning about skin color from Counseling and Restorative Practices staff members. Diablo View, Riverview and Sequoia middle schools MDUSD middle school students have also been active. Recent social media highlights include: Diablo View MS celebrating Red Ribbon Week, Riverview MS students becoming medical detectives as they dissected sheep hearts, and Sequoia MS drama students performing in one-act plays. Ygnacio Valley, Olympic, Mt. Diablo and Northgate high schools MDUSD high school students have participated in a variety of academic and recreational activities. Recent social media highlights include: A health career pathways conference hosted by Ygnacio Valley HS , weekly lunchtime staff vs. student challenges at Olympic HS , Mt. Diablo HS students Evelyn Lopez and Melody Gomez receive prestigious John Muir Health "I Belong" scholarships, and Northgate HS athletes celebrate Senior Night. Staff Social Media Highlights Mt. Diablo HS, Hidden Valley Elementary, Pine Hollow MS and Concord HS MDUSD staff members are engaging with students in a variety of ways. Recent social media highlights include: Mt. Diablo HS Head Football Coach Fetuao Mua was named Coach of the Week with 49ers Prep for his strong coaching skills, Hidden Valley Elementary Principal Tosi got help from students with the morning announcements, Pine Hollow MS students bought tickets to throw water balloons at Principal Strawbridge, and Concord HS Athletics proudly announced that Natalie Carrillo is the new Softball Coach. Technology Integration Leader Spotlights Holbrook Language Academy, College Park HS, Bridge Program, Sequoia MS, Riverview MS November's Technology Integration Leader spotlights feature: Persia Islas Enriquez at Holbrook Language Academy, Evan White at College Park HS , Kim Huntley at the Bridge Program , Elisa Mendoza at Sequoia MS , and Mary Acebu at Riverview MS . Community News Vaping/Tobacco/Cannabis & Teens: What Adults Need to Know Webinar is November 14 Join Contra Costa young people and adults to learn about the latest tobacco and cannabis products, including tobacco pouches (Zyn), the impact of tobacco and cannabis on young people, and ways adults can support young people in their lives. The event will be in English with simultaneous Spanish translation. Intended Audience: Parents/guardians, educators, community partners, and other caring adults. Thursday, Nov. 14 from 6-7 p.m. Optional Q&A 7-7:30 p.m. No pre-registration necessary Link to Join the Webinar: https://bit.ly/VapingandTeensWebinar2024 . Important Dates Nov. 11: Schools and District Offices closed for the Veterans Day Holiday Nov. 13: District Governing Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Nov. 14: Measure J Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) meeting at 5 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom; African American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) meeting at 6 p.m. at the Black Family Resource Center in Bay Point Nov. 19: Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord; Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Nov. 20: Fentanyl Awareness: Facts & Tools to Save a Life event at 6 p.m. at Valley View MS in Pleasant Hill Nov. 21: District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center Nov. 25-29: Schools closed for Thanksgiving Recess ; District offices open Nov. 25-27 and closed Nov. 28-29 for Thanksgiving holiday. The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions.
Saturday, Nov 09 2024
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Friday Letter - November 1, 2024
NOVEMBER 1, 2024 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 7 NO. 12 Dear Mt. Diablo Unified School District Community, Happy Friday! I’m always so excited to share some incredible stories and achievements from across our District. We’re inspired by the rich cultural celebrations and exceptional accomplishments of our students, staff, and community members. This week, we spotlight the vibrant Día de los Muertos educational ofrenda at Willow Creek Center , which honors tradition and remembrance. I’d also like to highlight the incredible German American Partnership Program (GAPP) exchange bringing cultural learning to life at College Park and Northgate high schools . At Strandwood Elementary, a beautiful Diwali rangoli art installation , created by parent and special education assistant Preeti Pradhan , continues to brighten the campus, celebrating light and joy. The Mt. Diablo Unified School District and Mt. Diablo High School are mourning the loss of student Mariella Gonzalez and send our deepest condolences to her family and friends. The Concord High School’s 500 wing has been dedicated to longtime teacher Kathy Koch , and El Dorado Middle School has unveiled a new mural that reflects the school’s spirit. Congratulations to the Mt. Diablo High School football team for being crowned DAL league champions for the first time since 1962! For those who read the Concord Pioneer, check out Concord High’s standout student athlete Paradise Mahasin , a star in Flag Football and Basketball. On a personal note, I had the pleasure of reading to TK students at Delta View Elementary l ast week. This was a highlight of the week, what a delight to see their bright eyes and curiosity! These students are so fortunate to have such wonderful and thoughtful teachers and assistants! We also have exciting staff news: Ygnacio Valley High School teacher Joseph Alvarico has been recognized as one of the 75 Most Influential Filipino Americans of 2024 and received The Outstanding Filipino Award in Education. Additionally, YVHS social studies teacher Bryan Shaw has been selected as one of only 40 teachers nationwide to serve as a facilitator for the Smithsonian Democracy Dialogue Virtual Exchange program this spring. Other highlights include: Concord HS student s pre-register to vote Mt Diablo Elementary creates an ofrenda to celebrate Dia de los Muertos Mt. Diablo Adult Education co-hosts 2024 Central Contra Costa County Career & Resource Fair Food and Nutrition Services staff get into the holiday spirit for Halloween Thank you all for making our District a welcoming and safe place to learn and grow. Have a great weekend! Dr. Adam Clark Superintendent Spotlights Día de los Muertos ofrenda in honor of children who have died on display at Willow Creek Latina and Latino staff members including counselors, a teacher, community school coordinator, and college and career advisor together created an educational Día de los Muertos ofrenda (altar) at the Willow Creek Center that is dedicated to children who have died in recognition of Dia de los Angelitos, or Day of the Little Angels on Nov. 1. The ofrenda includes a dedication in the center, along with six framed descriptions of children being recognized, including those who have died in war, of hunger, or in other ways. It also features traditional offerings including some that would appeal to children, such as candy and toys. Visitors can honor their loved ones by writing on paper flowers and placing them in a basket on the ofrenda (below).. Continuing a tradition they began two years ago, four Latina counselors in the District with Mexican ancestry teamed up with other Latino and Latina District staff members to create a "Día de los Muertos" ofrenda (or altar) at Willow Creek Center 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." Because District students 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, and Mt. Diablo HS college and career advisor Erika Ramos to create an ofrenda dedicated to children who have died in recognition of Dia de los Angelitos , or Day of the Little Angels on Nov. 1. Adults are traditionally remembered on Nov. 2. The ofrenda includes a dedication in the center, along with six framed descriptions of children being recognized, including those who have died in war, of hunger, or in other ways. It also features traditional offerings including some that would appeal to children, such as candy and toys. Visitors can honor their loved ones by writing on paper flowers and placing them in a basket on the ofrenda. A traditional ofrenda provides a place for the living to reunite with their loved ones, to whom it is dedicated, Ordaz said. Their ofrenda also includes "pan de muerto" - or Day of the Dead bread, fruit, marigold flowers, candles, water, incense and salt, along with written descriptions of the importance of these elements. It is decorated with "papel picado," which means "cut paper" in Spanish and is a traditional Mexican craft with intricate designs. It will be on display through Thursday, Nov. 7 in the Willow Creek Center at 1026 Mohr Lane in Concord. "For us, the biggest joy we get is to provide Mt. Diablo employees and families an opportunity to learn about the elements of the ofrenda," Ordaz said, explaining that nationwide, only 10% of counselors are Latinx, so it is not the norm for a school District to have four Latina counselors who can share their Mexican culture with the community and help Latinx families feel included and represented. The counselors call themselves "Las Consejeras," which means "the counselors" in Spanish, and they hold "Cafecitas de las Consejeras" throughout the school year as part of their outreach to Spanish-speaking families. "The four of us consejeras choose to intentionally center our ancestral, cultural, ethnic and racial identities because we understand the value of representation for our families and students and our hope is that by being vocal about our identities that they feel seen," Ordaz said. Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark, who visited the ofrenda on Thursday, said it's important for our students and staff to understand each other's cultures. "I want to support the ones who are doing this work," he said. Torres said they included the written descriptions to help people understand the meaning of the ofrenda and to provide a model for others who may want to create ofrendas at their schools. Check out the "School News" below to see how Mt. Diablo Elementary celebrated Día de los Muertos. Read more about the four Latina counselors and their outreach to Latinx parents here . College Park HS & Northgate HS students learn German language and culture through GAPP College Park HS German language students stand with teacher Frau Zehra Otus and German exchange students and teachers before attending a school play together (above left). Northgate HS German language teacher Frau Nancy Grabow, GAPP teacher Rosanna Saur and Northgate student Kaitlyn Young wear traditional dirndl German dresses for an Oktoberfest celebration (above right) that included German food and games (below). German language students at College Park and Northgate high schools have been hosting students and teachers from Germany since Oct. 16 through the German-American Partnership Program ( GAPP ), which is sponsored by the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany and the US Department of State. College Park students are hosting 11 students and two teachers, while Northgate students are hosting 20 students and two teachers. In June, 11 College Park students and 20 Northgate students will travel to Germany with their teachers to stay with the families of the students they hosted here. While visiting, the German students "shadow" the MDUSD students at school and also tour the Bay Area, to experience an American high school firsthand and also get a taste of American culture and local landmarks, visiting sites such as UC Berkeley, Alcatraz and San Francisco. Those visiting Northgate went to the homecoming rally, football game and dance, and also attended a Marching Band Review in Santa Cruz and helped to organize an Oktoberfest that included German food and games. Those visiting College Park HS enjoyed a school play and gave presentations about "digital agriculture" in Germany, including using AI for farming. Teachers and students from both schools said the program gives MDUSD students the chance to speak German to teenage peers and to better understand their culture by spending time with them. And likewise, it gives the German students the opportunity to speak English to American teens and learn about our culture by living in students' homes for more than two weeks. The Northgate group attended the Oct. 23 Board meeting and gave a short presentation about the program. Before the school play at College Park HS on Oct. 24, German student Hailey Klaus, 17, said she likes staying with an American family to see what their daily life is like, including their school routines, such as a fun ceramics class that incorporated glass and mirrors into the artwork. "In Germany, we don't have art classes like that," she said. CPHS senior Bella Alkhoury said she is excited to visit Germany to learn more about the culture, language and school. "And it will be cool to try different food," she said. At the Northgate Oktoberfest on Oct. 28, German student Sarah Herdzina, 16, said she wanted to come to America to improve her English speaking and get to know new people. "I really like the experience in high school," she said, adding that she also enjoyed visiting San Francisco. Her classmate Nina Amann, 16, said their Oktoberfest included a game where a person holds 1 liter of water out to the side for as long as possible, and a relay game where students walked across the blacktop carrying a golf ball (instead of an egg) in a spoon, then had to recite three German words and their meanings. Northgate junior student Julianne Cullen said it's interesting to compare German and American daily life and school systems. "And the game was fun," she said. The German students flew back home on Nov. 1st. District News Board Briefs: Native American Heritage Month & Runaway and Homeless Youth Prevention Month The MDUSD Board recognizes November as Native American Heritage Month and California Runaway and Homeless Youth Prevention Month . The next Board meeting will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13 in the District Office Boardroom. The agenda will be posted here by 5 p.m. Nov. 8. 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 . K-8 Math Adoption Materials Review and Feedback through Nov. 8 at Willow Creek Center Math curriculum that is being reviewed by elementary and middle school teachers is available for review at Willow Creek Center for the next week. Teachers, families, and community members are welcome to view the materials and give feedback. Materials will be available at Willow Creek Center, 1026 Mohr Lane in Concord from 1:30-4:30 p.m. weekdays through Friday, November 8. Annual Holiday Community Fair at Concord High School is Saturday, November 9 The Concord High School Parent Faculty Club will host its Annual Holiday Community Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, November 9 on the campus at 4200 Concord Blvd. in Concord. This festive, fun-filled event all ages is open to the public and will feature: local artisans and vendors, food and refreshments, and live entertainment including local school band and chorus performances. All proceeds from the event will go towards the PFC's support of student activities. “We’re thrilled to welcome families from all around the community to kick off the holiday season with us,” said Julene MacKinnon, Concord HS Principal. “This fair has something for everyone, and it’s a great way to celebrate the students and bring people together.” Admission is free, and parking will be available on-site. The fair will take place rain or shine. For more information or to become a vendor, please contact hackettn@mdusd.org or 925-412-4388. Intradistrict Transfer deadline is Sunday, Nov. 10 for most grades in 2025-26 From October 10 - November 10, 2024, Intradistrict Transfer Applications are available for all schools, grades 1-12 and for Sequoia and Monte Gardens elementary schools' Kindergarten. Currently enrolled students complete the application using their Aeries Homelink Portal. Students that are not currently enrolled can use a link available on the District website here . More information is here . MDUSD's Adult Education Lifelong Learning program offers new classes in November MDUSD's Adult Lifelong Education program has plenty to offer in November, including cooking, crafts including gift wrapping, finance, home improvement, personal enrichment, technology, woodturning and woodworking! Details are in the program's November newsletter here . More information about Mt. Diablo Adult Education is on the MDAE website here and the Fall catalog here . MDUSD Student News Mt. Diablo HS mourns the loss of student Mariella Gonzalez The Mt. Diablo Unified School District and Mt. Diablo HS are mourning the loss of student Mariella Gonzalez. Principal Dr. Markell McCain said in an Oct. 28 announcement to his school community: "It is with profound sadness that we inform you of the passing of Mariella Gonzalez, a beloved member of our school community. Mariella was a promising sophomore student and will be deeply missed by friends, classmates, and staff who were touched by her kindness, talent, and warmth. We extend our deepest sympathies to Mariella's family, and we ask that you keep them in your thoughts. ... In this difficult time, it is natural to seek connection and to share in each other’s grief. We ask everyone to remember the importance of respecting each other's experiences and privacy as we come together to support one another. By focusing on Mariella's memory and honoring her impact on our lives, we should ensure that our conversations reflect the same kindness and empathy that she showed to others. Let’s continue to be a source of strength and positivity for one another, offering space, comfort, and understanding as we navigate this challenging time together..... Thank you for your compassion and for being part of our supportive community." Mariella's mother, Jeanette Espinoza, has shared that the family has established a memorial fund in her honor. More information is here . Pioneer Athlete Spotlight on Concord HS Flag Football & Basketball Player Paradise Mahasin Congratulations to Concord HS Girls Flag Football and Basketball player Paradise Mahasin, who was recently featured in a Pioneer Athlete Spotlight . As a recent transfer student to the school, she started off her senior year as quarterback for the Bears flag football team, but has also impressed Coach Kahil Boykin in other positions on offense and defense. She has scored as a runningback, wide receiver and defensive back, and has one passing touchdown to her credit. “Paradise is an explosive athlete that changes the game every time she touches the football," Boykin said. "She is shifty, and with one cut she is up the field in a flash. She is tough as nails for her small frame and wants nothing more than to compete and play hard for her team.” We can't wait to see her on the basketball court this winter! Concord HS students find pre-registration voting process quick and easy The Pioneer also included an article that featured early voter registration for juniors and seniors at Concord HS provided by the Contra Costa Election Department's mobile voting unit on Oct. 2. Melissa Hickok, assistant to Kristin B. Connelly, county clerk-recorder and registrar of voters, collected 130 registration affidavits, including at least one 17-year-old who will turn 18 before the election. She also watched her twin sons, Cody and Connor, take advantage of the opportunity to fill out the brief, one-page form. The duo will get their first chance to vote in the 2026 March Primary, unless a local special election comes up before then. “Students at Concord High were very engaged in this event and had good questions about the democratic process,” she said. School News 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" with her children and other students in front of the school to help raise awareness of the Indian holiday Diwali, which lasts from Oct. 31-Nov. 1. it will be on display at the school through Nov. 13th. Following a successful debut last year, Strandwood Elementary special education assistant and parent Preeti Pradhan has created another 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 Oct. 31-Nov. 1 in India and by Indian immigrants and their families in the U.S. The daughter of immigrants from India, Pradhan said her design this year includes 12 overlapping circles, known as "The Lotus of Life" in Sacred Geometry. She also created a border of roadrunners, the school's mascot. The circular design includes repeating "mandala" patterns, as well as flowers and white swirls around the outside, which are also known as "the Golden Ratio." Diwali is a Hindu and South Asian celebration that is known as "the festival of lights." Pradhan has also been visiting classrooms and offering students the opportunity to create their own mandala patterns on paper, or rangolis, which are made from sand or other materials including flowers or colored rice. Other parents and students also helped Pradhan fill in the design and smooth out the colorful sand. "We just wanted to learn," said Ashley Flores, whose daughter Nora is in Kindergarten They watched some videos about the meaning of Diwali and wanted to see the rangoli taking shape, she said. Pradhan, who is half Hindu and half Jain, said Diwali celebrates the victory of good over evil and the goddess Lakshmi, but its meaning can vary in different parts of India and in different religions. She created the artwork at the front of the school so it would be visible to all Strandwood families and the MDUSD community. "We hope this can be a tradition at the school," she said, adding that the school also celebrated cultural diversity by creating an ofrenda in honor of Dia de los Muertos. Like ofrendas, rangolis often include marigold flowers, as well as bright colors. Fourth-grade teacher Dylan Brown said he appreciates Pradhan's willingness to create the rangoli for the school and visit his class to explain Diwali to his students, since she can share her firsthand knowledge and personal cultural experiences. "I think it absolutely helps add to a sense of community," he said. Parent Eima Pandher created a beautiful fabric backdrop behind the rangoli, featuring garlands of marigolds to complement the design. And parent Rikita Gakhar helped to stabilize the backdrop so it wouldn't blow over in the wind and said she would also be willing to read books about Diwali or show students henna hand tattoos. "I'm Indian too," she said. "I just wanted to help. I saw this last year and wanted to have a way for my kid to participate in our cultural tradition. It's really nice to be able to help and contribute." Pradhan, who is the parent of three children, said she plans to continue this tradition at Strandwood next year and to purchase even more colored sand so that students can make their own mini-rangolis. She is happy that the school community is embracing the celebration of different cultures and said the PTA auction dinner theme this year is: "A world of color." The rangoli (below) will be on display through November 13th, 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. Concord HS names 500 Wing "Kathy Koch Hall" in honor of teacher's 40 years of service Concord High School dedicated its 500 wing as “Kathy Koch Hall” in honor of former teacher Katherine Koch’s 40 years of service to the school and the community. The ceremony took place during the school’s varsity homecoming game on October 25. Koch became a full-time teacher at Concord High after first working in various positions at other MDUSD schools since she was hired in 1974. She taught an array of subjects over her four decades, including physical education, driver’s education, math, U.S. history, work experience, and freshman science. Throughout her tenure, she worked under every principal at Concord HS, except the first and the current Principal Julene MacKinnon. Beloved by generations of students, teachers, and staff, Koch has made an indelible mark on the Concord High community. Alumni and colleagues alike admire her dedication and passion for teaching. A Pioneer article highlighting her recognition is here . El Dorado MS builds community with new mural El Dorado MS Principal Megan Estenson is proud to share photos from the school's Mural Painting/Beautification Day on October 19th. This was a wonderful community event hat brought together community volunteers including students, families, teachers, and other community members to bring color to our campus, she said. It was coordinated and supported by Miller Knoll, Sherwin Williams, Dome Construction, and the non profit Project Color Corps, supported by donations and designer volunteers. This mural process began last year with students completing a color survey where they were able to voice how they wanted to feel on campus. Some of the most popular responses were: happy, excited, safe, good, smart, ready, calm, joyful and comfortable. The second step was participating in a color assembly where the designers shared the results of student surveys and connected how they wanted to feel to colors that matched their words. Colors chosen included red, blue, black, pink, purple, green, turquoise, orange, white and yellow. Based on the results of surveys and assembly, professional designer Jennifer Morla designed this mural, she said, noting that it extends to two walls that line the main entrance of the school to welcome in the community. "The community has already felt the impact of color and the mural on our campus and it has been a really positive impact overall." Mt. Diablo HS Football celebrates winning league title with win over Berean Christian Mt. Diablo High School's football team made headlines after capturing its first league title since 1962 with an impressive triumph over Berean Christian. The Bay Area News Group story is here . The coaching staff also made headlines when sports reporters and photographers got a good look at their "fly kicks," writing Mt. Diablo's shoe game is strong in their Monday Morning Lights roundup here . The team celebrated their DAL Mountain Division championship win with a highlight Instagram reel here . Delta View Elementary TK students and teachers enjoy visit from Superintendent Dr. Clark Superintendent Dr. Clark reads a book to TK students (above left) and poses for a selfie with (l-r) teachers Lauren Wood and Ruth Montgomery (above right). Delta View Elementary TK students and teachers Ruth Montgomery and Lauren Wood were pleased to welcome Superintendent Dr. Clark to their campus recently, where he read two books: "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie" and "The Very Hungry Caterpillar." "The TK scholars were hanging on every word and as their teacher it was so nice to witness this," said Mrs. Montgomery. "This is my 19th year teaching at Delta View and my 2nd year teaching TK and I just love both TK and Delta View. I know Mrs. Wood feels so proud of our TK classes as well. Dr. Clark’s visit really was special. He just seemed to connect so easily with our TK kiddos. It was such a fun day!" Dr. Clark said he was thrilled to have the opportunity to read to the students. "I shared with the teachers how fortunate those students are to have that experience before entering Kindergarten. I was so impressed with how patient they were. The reading and the recess were the highights of my week! That was a lot of fun." Mt. Diablo Elementary creates an ofrenda to celebrate Dia de los Muertos Mt. Diablo Elementary Vice Principal Miranda Romo is pleased to share that third grade teacher Michelle Howisey organized an ofrenda/altar to celebrate Dia De Los Muertos at the school. She created a parent flyer asking families to contribute materials and photos of loved ones, then put together the beautiful display (above), Romo said. "We have welcomed families to come visit our ofrenda/altar, and each classroom has been to visit it as well," she said, adding that the project helped the community to learn about this important cultural holiday. Bel Air Elementary and Mt. Diablo HS also held Dia de los Muertos celebrations. Mt. Diablo Adult Education co-hosts Central Contra Costa County Career & Resource Fair On October 24th, Mt Diablo Adult Education and Loma Vista Adult Center hosted the 2024 Central Contra Costa County Career & Resource Fair in partnership with the Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County. "The event was attended by nearly 40 local employers from Contra Costa County, and hosted prospective employees from all over the county, including students from our own English as a Second Language, Career Technical Education, High School Diploma, and Adults with Disabilities," said Drew Foerder, Loma Vista Vice Principal. "The MDUSD HR team also attended the event, and provided information and opportunities for prospective employees in the community to learn more about job possibilities in our school district." Charles Brown III, the Business Services Representative for the Workforce Development Board and his team planned all of the employer tables and logistics of the event, while Foerder and Vittoria Abbate, Director of College & Career and Adult Education, coordinated the event space and student involvement. Andrea Murphy, America’s Job Center of California Coordinator, and her team also provided resume writing support and guidance to attendees, Foerder said. "It was a highly attended event and provided prospective employees a unique opportunity to meet with employers face to face, and even interview for specific positions throughout the day.: A wide range of employers participated, including Military Ocean Terminal Concord, East Bay Municipal Utility District, Tesla, Bio Rad, County Connection, AC Transit, the US Postal Service, Fremont Police Department, Pacific States Petroleum, NorCal Ambulance, and the Employment Development Department (EDD). Staff News YVHS teacher Joseph Alvarico receives 2 prestigious Filipino Awards for his work in Education Congratulations to Ygnacio Valley HS engineering teacher Joseph Alvarico, who recently received two prestigious awards in recognition of his contributions to society as an influential educator who is Filipino. Alvarico received The Outstanding Filipino Award (TOFA) in Education and was also named one of the 75 Most Influential Filipino Americans (MIFA) for 2024. He received the TOFA at the 14th Annual awards ceremony on October 27 at Blue Note Hawaii. "I’m honored to have received the TOFA National Award in Education," he said. "To be recognized nationally by the Filipino American community for my work as an educator is a humbling reminder of the impact we can have on students and communities alike." When he accepted the award, he emphasized how that it is not just a personal achievement—it’s a tribute to his community and everyone who has supported him on my journey as an educator. "I’m especially grateful to the Mt. Diablo Unified School District for providing opportunities for educators like me," he said. "Mt. Diablo Unified is a place where Filipino educators thrive and make a difference, and I am proud to represent our shared achievements!" Receiving both these honors during Filipino American History Month in October was incredibly meaningful, he said, noting that he has shared personal reflections on social media, as he has received district, county, and state Teacher of the Year recognition, and now the national stage as a prominent Filipino American educator. “This recognition is a tribute to the generations of Filipinos who came before us, who faced struggle with resilience and built solidarity within our communities,” he said. “As we commemorate the first recorded arrival of Filipinos in Morrow Bay, California, I am deeply grateful to be part of a legacy that celebrates our strength, unity, and shared history. Thank you to all who support and inspire me on this journey. Let’s continue lifting each other up and making a positive impact for future generations.” YVHS social studies teacher Bryan Shaw selected as Smithsonian Democracy Dialogue Facilitator Congratulations to Ygnacio Valley HS social studies teacher Bryan Shaw, who has been selected as a Smithsonian Democracy in Dialogue Virtual Exchange Facilitator in the spring! Shaw announced the recognition on social media, saying : "My students will collaborate with peers from across the nation to showcase our community's role in 250 years of the American experiment." He will fly to Washington, D.C., on January 26th to participate in a three-day workshop where he will be paired with another U.S. teacher. The pair will construct a project that will enable their students to participate in a virtual exchange in which their students will answer the question: "How has our community played a role in 250 years of the American experiment?" Shaw's students will have 8 "points of contact" with the other class, including four synchronous and four asynchronous "touch points." More on the program is here . Food and Nutrition Services staff get into the holiday spirit for Halloween Food and Nutrition Services Director Alexandra Emmott passed along these photos, saying: "Thought you might like to see some of the amazing Halloween spirit in the cafeterias today :)" Kudos for keeping our students well fed and entertained! Important Dates Nov. 11: Schools and District Offices Closed for the Veterans Day Holiday Nov. 13: District Governing Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Nov. 14: Measure J Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) meeting at 5 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom; African American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) meeting at 6 p.m. at the Black Family Resource Center in Bay Point Nov. 19: Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord; Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Nov. 20: Fentanyl Awareness: Facts & Tools to Save a Life event at 6 p.m. at Valley View MS in Pleasant Hill Nov. 21: District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions
Saturday, Nov 02 2024
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Friday Letter - October 25, 2024
OCTOBER 25, 2024 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 7 NO. 11 Dear Mt. Diablo Unified School District Community, I am excited to provide evidence of the wonderful things happening across our District. This week’s letter highlights the incredible efforts of our students, families, and staff. On Monday we held an “ Experience Dyslexia ” event, bringing together educators, families, and community members to increase awareness and understanding of dyslexia. I am proud of our District’s early rollout of a dyslexia screener for K-2 students, which is further evidence of our commitment to ensuring that all students have what they need to succeed. We are also celebrating the achievements of the Y gnacio Valley High School InvenTeam members , who are working to address the challenges of communication and daily task completion for people with limited hand mobility. This team is one of only eight selected nationwide to participate in the prestigious MIT InvenTeam program. Their work is evidence of what our students can accomplish when they are supported and encouraged. I want to congratulate our girl golfers from Northgate and College Park High School , who completed undefeated seasons in the DAL! Individual girl golfers from Concord and Mt. Diablo high schools also received league recognition for their outstanding performances. These athletes have excelled on the course while also representing our District with honor. On Wednesday, we celebrated the grand opening of the new InFab Lab at Concord High School , a cutting-edge classroom designed to support student creativity, engineering, and hands-on learning. The InFab Lab is more than just a classroom—it is evidence of our commitment to providing students with real-world learning experiences that prepare them for college and career. Other highlights include: Career Pathways student s from three high schools participate in Manufacturing Day A College Now student earns 2nd place in speech and debate competition at Santa Rosa Junior College Olympic HS students participate in Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce First Friday Coffee Mt. Diablo Adult Education Surgical Technology Students Receive Scholarships School Social Media Highlights from Gregory Gardens, Bel Air and Valle Verde elementary schools; Pleasant Hill, Sequoia and Oak Grove middle schools; and Northgate, Olympic, and Concord high schools and the College Now program at DVC Staff Social Media highlights from Valle Verde Elementary, Delta View Elementary, Northgate HS and MDUSD Career Pathways Thank you to our incredible students! Dr. Adam Clark Superintendent Spotlight "Experience Dyslexia" shows what it feels like to have dyslexia as MDUSD rolls out K-2 screener MDUSD parents try to draw a star while they look in a mirror to see their hands moving their pencils under a cardboard tent (above left). MDUSD Special Education Parent Advisory Council (CAC) Chair Dorothy Weisenberger speaks about her children's dyslexia at the Experience Dyslexia event on Oct. 14 (above right). In recognition of Dyslexia Awareness Month in October, MDUSD held two "Experience Dyslexia" events this month that gave participants the opportunity to better understand the challenges that people with dyslexia face every day. MDUSD is ahead of many other districts in screening students in grades K-2 for dyslexia, which will be required by the state in all districts in 2025-26. The District's Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC) created a dyslexia task force and obtained the Experience Dyslexia simulations through a grant they received, said Dorothy Weisenberger, CAC Chair, during the Monday night event. "This is about getting our kids help and about us as parents understanding what our kids go through," said Weisenberger, who is the mother of three children with dyslexia. After she first participated in the simulations, Weisenberger told parents at the event, "I cried and went home and hugged my kids. I kept thinking, 'It has to be easier.' But it doesn't get easier. They have to learn a different way." The simulations helped parents understand the immense effort and focus that students with dyslexia need to complete tasks that may be easy for those without dyslexia, as well as the frustration and helplessness they may feel when they cannot complete classwork or homework as quickly as their peers. In the simulations, Weisenberger and MDUSD Special Education staff members played the roles of teachers giving assignments to students with time limitations. Participants played the roles of students, trying to accomplish tasks while attempting to overcome barriers that made it difficult to process the information they were given. The simulations included: trying to read unfamiliar symbols and decode their meanings based on context and repetition in texts, trying to write down information dictated by the teacher while significant background noise makes it difficult to hear instructions, trying to draw a star shape while looking in a mirror to watch your hand moving your pencil under a cardboard tent, trying to write letters and unknown symbols with your non-dominant hand, taking a spelling test three times, once with the audio simulating hearing loss, once with low level sound, and finally with some amplification simulating a hearing aid. After each simulation, participants talked about how they felt when they were unable to easily complete the assignments. Many said they felt frustrated and anxious. "It hurt my brain," some one parent. Special education teacher Mabel Ventriglia, who participated in the simulations, said: "I felt like I had to retrain my brain." She also noted that some students who have trouble reading act out in class or make excuses, such as needing to go to the restroom, to avoid reading aloud in front of their peers. MDUSD Special Education Director Amy Sudrla and other facilitators told parents that early screening can help identify students with dyslexia so they can get interventions and learn to read by the end of 3rd grade, which is essential for them to be able to read to learn in grades 4-12 and into adulthood. Parents can also ask for accommodations such as a quiet place to take assessments, additional time or no time limits, and assistive technology to help with auditory processing challenges. Sudrla said dyslexic students are often exhausted by the end of the school day and need a break to decompress when they get home before plunging into homework. They should also be praised by teachers and parents for incremental improvements, in recognition of the extra work they are putting in to process information. After the event, a parent named Anna said she appreciated the simulations and information provided. "It was super helpful," she said, adding that it not only showed her what it feels like to have dyslexia, but also gave her practical steps for advocating for her child. A CAC presentation about MDUSD's mClass dyslexia diagnostic screener and interventions including Spire and LindaMood Bell is here . Details about dyslexia screening and curriculum materials approved by the MDUSD School Board in June are here . Information about the CAC is here . California Dyslexia Guidelines (2018) are here . District News Board Briefs: Board met Oct. 23 to approve meeting bylaw revision and resolutions, hear report The Board met Oct. 23 to hear a report on the German Partnership Program at Northgate HS, and approve a minor revision to a Board meeting bylaw to align with current practices, among other items. The agenda is 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 . MDUSD continues to recognize Oct. 23-31, 2024 as Red Ribbon Week and 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 2024 Red Ribbon Week Theme that "Life is a movie, film drug free." The District also encourages the community to take part in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 26 (see flyer ). K-8 Math Adoption Materials Review and Feedback through Nov. 8 at Willow Creek Center Math curriculum that is being reviewed by elementary and middle school teachers is available for review at Willow Creek Center for the next two weeks. Teachers, families, and community members are welcome to view the materials and give feedback. Materials will be available at Willow Creek Center, 1026 Mohr Lane in Concord on weekdays October 28 - November 8 from 1:30-4:30pm. Fentanyl Awareness: Facts & Tools to Save a Life event on Oct. 30 at Diablo View MS MDUSD will host a Free Fentanyl Awareness and Saving a Life Event at 6 p.m. Wednesday, October 30 at Diablo View Middle School, 300 Diablo View Lane in Clayton. We will 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. Each adult who registers will receive a free Naloxone Kit. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get the tools you can use to save a life. Use this link to register for this event. Information about past fentanyl events is here . 2025-26 and 2026-27 School Year Calendar Survey available through Thursday, Oct. 31st MDUSD is seeking input to help us create 2025-26 and 2026-27 academic calendar schedules that meet the needs of our students, parents, and staff. We are asking interested parents, staff and high school students to complete a survey in English or Spanish that includes questions about the Fall Break; start of the school year; end of the school year; Thanksgiving, winter and spring breaks; and 3- or 4-day weekends. In addition, elementary parents and staff will be asked about parent-teacher conferences. There is also space for other suggestions or comments. Please click here to complete the survey, which closes at 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31st. No school on Friday, November 1st for Teacher In-Service Day Applications for most Intradistrict Transfers in 2025-26 are available through Nov. 10 There will be no classes for MDUSD students on Friday , Nov. 1 due to a Teacher In-Service Day. District offices will be open. From October 10 - November 10, 2024, the Intradistrict Transfer Applications are available for all schools, grades 1-12 and for Sequoia and Monte Gardens elementary schools' Kindergarten. Currently enrolled students complete the application using their Aeries Homelink Portal. Students that are not currently enrolled can use a link available on the District website here . More information is here . Annual Holiday Community Fair at Concord High School is Saturday, November 9 The Concord High School Parent Faculty Club will host its Annual Holiday Community Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, November 9 on the campus at 4200 Concord Blvd. in Concord. This festive, fun-filled event all ages is open to the public and will feature: local artisans and vendors, food and refreshments, and live entertainment including local school band and chorus performances. All proceeds from the event will go towards the PFC's support of student activities. “We’re thrilled to welcome families from all around the community to kick off the holiday season with us,” said Julene MacKinnon, Concord HS Principal. “This fair has something for everyone, and it’s a great way to celebrate the students and bring people together.” Admission is free, and parking will be available on-site. The fair will take place rain or shine. For more information or to become a vendor, please contact hackettn@mdusd.org or 925-412-4388. MDUSD Career Pathways students participate in Contra Costa County Manufacturing Day On October 17th, Manufacturing Day provided an invaluable experience for students from Mt. Diablo, Concord, and Ygnacio Valley high schools, thanks to a collaboration between the City of Concord, the Contra Costa Community College District, the Contra Costa Office of Education, the Contra Costa Economic Partnership, and Earn & Learn, said Anna Ramos, MDUSD's Manager of Youth Development & Support Services. Students toured the Bollman Water Treatment Plant in Martinez, Marathon Petroleum in Concord, and an active Lennar Homes build site in Antioch. These tours offered a behind-the-scenes look at energy production, water treatment, and construction, connecting students with local industry partners and exposing them to diverse careers in manufacturing and building trades, Ramos said. After the tours, students visited Diablo Valley College's Pleasant Hill campus to explore the Robotics, Electrical Engineering, and Construction labs. Guided by DVC instructors, they engaged in hands-on activities, including constructing mini-building frames and building electrical circuits. This experience illuminated the practical skills and projects available within DVC's Engineering and Construction programs, Ramos said. MDUSD Work Based Learning Coordinator Isaiah Harper, who attended the event with students, added, "Opportunities don't just happen. You create them, and DVC has so many for our students." Manufacturing Day showcased potential career pathways in the manufacturing industry, aligning with career technical education (CTE) initiatives. By fostering connections with local industry partners and emphasizing relevant skills, this event aimed to inspire students to envision their futures in these vital sectors, Ramos said. MDUSD's 12th Annual College Fair on Thursday at Ygnacio Valley HS in Concord was a success MDUSD's 12th Annual College Fair on Thursday at Ygnacio Valley HS attracted high school students and their families from throughout the District interested in connecting with representatives from more than 60 colleges and universities in California and beyond. The District's Career Pathways program also participated in the fair to spread the word about dual enrollment opportunities for students to earn college credit at Diablo Valley HS while taking high school courses. More information about MDUSD career pathways is here . Click on the social media posts below to see more highlights from the event. MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark featured on "Superintendents Unplugged" Podcast MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark was recently featured on a "Superintendent's Unplugged" podcast titled " Mastering Educational Leadership with Dr. Adam Clark: Lessons from Mt. Diablo Unified ." Dr. Clark discusses the district’s focus on fostering student-centered environments and building strong relationships with parents and the community to ensure every student feels supported. He emphasizes the importance of strong leadership and board collaboration, his approach to leadership, advocating for clear communication, relationship-building with staff, and a focus on student outcomes as the central goal of the district’s initiatives. He highlights the importance of fostering connections to engage students and prevent absenteeism, underscoring the District’s efforts to make schools welcoming spaces. MDUSD IT Department in the News: Unlocking the Secrets That Protect Mt. Diablo’s Student Data MDUSD's IT Department was recently featured in an EdTech Magazine video focused on cybersecurity. This was the second video in a planned three-part series on MDUSD technology. The first video , published in September, focused on instructional technology including Chromebooks, teacher laptops and Promethean Boards. In this month's video, Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark and Director of Technology and Innovation Robert Sidford describe the importance of protecting the District against cyberthreats with a series of technologies that prevent against cyberattacks. The video was produced in partnership with CDW, an information technology corporation, which helped MDUSD to implement our technology plan. MDUSD Student News Ygnacio Valley HS students receive grant to invent technological solution to a real-world problem Ygnacio Valley HS engineering teacher Joseph Alvarico (l-r) stands with InvenTeam members (back): Alexander Sanchez Cruz (11), Landon Love (9), Raymundo Martinez Garcia (11), Steven Cornejo Argueta (12), Leqi Li (12), Brianna Marie Woods (10); (middle holding sign) Aniyah Taylor Carroll (11), Justine Latorre (12), Angelina Monroy Villalon (12), Gabrielle Love (11), and math teacher Tabatha Box (right); and (front) Althea Danae Vivar (10), and Rubab Haris (9). (Grade levels are in parentheses.) An Ygnacio Valley High School team of 12 students led by engineering teacher Joseph Alvarico and math teacher Tabatha Box has been awarded a Lemelson-MIT InvenTeam® grant in the amount of $7,500 to create an invention geared towards helping people with limited hand mobility regain their independence and reconnect with loved ones and their community. Ygnacio Valley High is one of only eight high schools nationwide to be selected as an InvenTeam this year, and it is the only school in California to earn this honor. The Ygnacio Valley High School InvenTeam is inventing a solution to assist those with limited ability— whether due to arthritis, cerebral palsy, or other conditions—to use their hands to overcome challenges in their daily lives, such as gripping utensils or using hand gestures to communicate. With more than 50 million adults in the U.S. affected by arthritis and 764,000 people living with cerebral palsy, these challenges are widespread and can become frustrating struggles, leading to feelings of isolation. The YVHS InvenTeam’s goal is to not only improve quality of life for people with limited hand mobility, but also to promote a more inclusive and connected society. Alvarico, who is a 2024 California Teacher of the Year, hand-picked the 12 members, who are both male and female students in grades 9-12 including many who are also members of the after-school robotics club he advises, have taught robotics to middle school students, and participate in dual enrollment engineering classes for which they are earning college credit through Diablo Valley College (DVC). "I thought it would be really cool for students from Ygnacio Valley, with limited resources from low socioeconomic backgrounds, to have the same opportunities that other students do, so we are making this a vehicle not just to help the community, but for the kids to see what’s outside of California," he said, explaining that the project culminates in a presentation at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The team hopes to attract outside mentors in the field of technology and/or Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) support, as well as in-kind donations or monetary support, since the grant will not cover all of the group’s expenses as they develop a working prototype that could lead to a patent. The eight teams were chosen by a respected panel of university professors, inventors, entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and college students including former InvenTeam members now working in industry. “The InvenTeams are focusing on solving problems that impact their local communities,” said Leigh Estabrooks, Lemelson-MIT’s Invention Education Officer. “Teams are focusing their technological solutions — their inventions — on inequities in health and wellbeing, environmental issues, and safety concerns. These high school students are not just problem-solvers of tomorrow, they are problem solvers today helping to make our world more equitable, healthier, and safer.” Students on the YVHS InvenTeam were inspired to pursue their invention after meeting a special education student at their school who is nonverbal and has difficulty moving his hands. "We decided to help him by working on a project to improve hand mobility and fine motor skills for people with lack of ability," said senior Leqi Li. The students also met with MDUSD Special Education Department staff members who work with students needing Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) supports to better understand their challenges. Team members said they are excited to learn how the invention process works and some have personal reasons for joining the team. Althea Danae Vivar, a sophomore, said her grandmother works in a senior care home, where residents sometimes struggle with disabilities. "Sometimes, my grandma would say how lonely they were at the care home and their disability would lead to frustration because they cannot do the things they used to be able to do. This is something that could help." You can follow the team's progress on Instagram here . MDUSD Girls Golf team members at the top of their games Northgate HS VP Tucker Farrar (l-r) stands with Principal Kelly Cooper, head Golf Coach Ron Otero, and golfers Maddy Guinalda, Elizabeth Meyer, Peyton Glaves, Cami Barajas, Audrey Cheng, Mischa Peña, Armani Starke, Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark and Assistant Coach Adrian Peña (above left). College Park HS golfers Avery Rodriguez, Michaela Salalila, Ciera Alkhoury, Bella Alkhoury, Athena Alkhoury and Olivia Divers celebrate Senior Night (above right). Concord HS celebrates Girls Golfer Kaitlyn Sakurai (above left), while Mt. Diablo HS gives a shout-out to Girls Golf standout Jacquely (above right). Congratulations to the Girls Golf teams at Northgate HS and College Park HS, which are both celebrating undefeated streaks this season in their respective Diablo Athletic Leagues! Northgate is in the DAL Foothill Division, while College Park plays in the DAL Valley Division. Northgate HS announced its victory Monday on Instagram posting: "This is our 7th year in 10 years going undefeated through league! These girls put their blood sweat and tears into this season and finally get to see it all pay off. We will see you at NCS in two weeks." College Park HS announced its achievement in the Block CP Falcon Report , noting: "The Falcons finished League play undefeated for the 5th year!" Concord HS was also proud to congratulate Girls Golf team member Kaitlyn Sakurai on her NCS qualification on Instagram , noting that she is the first girls golfer o make NCS in more than 15 years from the school! And Mt. Diablo HS congratulated Girls Golf team member Jacquelyn on her DAL All League Honorable Mention on X. Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark recently played a round of 9 holes with the Northgate HS Girls Golf team on the Boundary Oak Golf Course in Walnut Creek. "I was impressed with their driving, with their course knowledge and how they supported each other," he said. "We had a great time, but they were very competitive - and very supportive." We are proud of all our MDUSD Girls Golfers! College Now student earns 2nd place in speech and debate competition at Santa Rosa JC The College Now program at Diablo Valley College is pleased to share that several students recently participated in a speech and debate competition at Santa Rosa Junior College as part of DVC's Speech and Debate Club. "One of our College Now students, Hali Hussein took home second place in the 'Informative Speech-Novice' category," said Dr. Heather Fontanilla, MDUSD's Director of College & Career Readiness. "Her speech was about using AI and VR technology for rehabilitation. Hali competed in three rounds, with the last round being the finals for her category, where they awarded prizes to the top 5 speakers." Hali's achievement is especially noteworthy because she was competing with students from other community colleges and some 4-year universities, including CSU Chico and Arizona State University. Congratulations! Olympic HS students participate in Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce First Friday Coffee Olympic HS students Crystal Ochoa and Bradley Torres participated in the Greater Chamber of Commerce First Friday networking event on Oct. 4 (right), through a collaboration between the MDUSD Career Pathways team and the chamber. Career Pathways students from other high schools will attend in future months. The goals are to provide the opportunity for students to practice professionalism skills, build their professional network, cultivate potential internships and other work-based learning opportunities, and continue strong Career Pathway partnerships. Mt. Diablo Adult Education Surgical Technology Students Receive Scholarships On October 18, 2024, Nikki West, the Healthcare Education Program Director for NCAL Regional Patient Care Services, presented 10 students from the Mt. Diablo Adult Education Surgical Technology Program with a $1,000 scholarship from the Kaiser Permanente Scholars Academy/Kaiser Permanente Fund for Health Education. "This generous scholarship aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with the students' clinical rotation externships," said Tricia Ouellette, Assistant Director of MDUSD Adult Education. To graduate, each student must complete a minimum of 400 hours in area hospitals, assisting surgeons in 120 different operating procedures. Currently, students are gaining invaluable experience at various Bay Area facilities, including Kaiser Permanente Richmond and Fremont, Sutter Health Roseville, Oakland and Berkeley, UCSF Walnut Creek, John Muir Concord, and Martinez VA hospitals. "The scholarship funds will significantly aid in covering transportation costs, tolls, parking fees, and other related expenses," Ouellette said. "The students expressed their excitement and gratitude for this support, thanking the KP Scholars Academy for acknowledging their hard work and dedication to completing the program. This assistance not only helps them financially but also motivates them to continue their journey in surgical technology." More information about MDUSD Adult Education programs is here . School News Concord HS celebrates opening of InFab Lab with Greater Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark (left) joins Director of College & Career Readiness Heather Fontanilla, Board Member Debra Mason, Concord HS teacher Tom Trowbridge, members of the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce, Principal Julene MacKinnon, DVC Dean of Career & Community Partnership Beth Arman, Board Member Cherise Khaund, Director of College & Career and Adult Education Vittoria Abbate, Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce CEO/President Kevin Cabral and CHS students Angie Flores, Aaron Vaino and Jacob Anderson for the InFab Lab ribbon cutting at Concord HS on Oct. 23. MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark speaks to Concord HS engineering students (above left), InFab Lab key chains created with lab equipment (above center), Principal Julene MacKinnon watches a machine create an InFab Lab sign (above right) . Members of the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce joined Concord HS engineering and construction teacher Tom Trowbridge, Principal Julene MacKinnon, students, Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark, Board Members Cherise Khaund and Debra Mason, and other MDUSD administrators for a ribbon cutting on Oct. 23 to celebrate the opening of the InFab Lab at the school. Trowbridge said he started off teaching Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) and robotics in the lab and enlisted the help of students to design the space, which includes about a dozen 3D printers, laser cutters, cricket cutters, a large flat iron that can be used for t-shirt transfers, and even sewing machines that can embroider. "We can crank out a bunch of things," he said, pointing to a piggy bank and other items created with 3D printers, as well as embossed wooden InFab Lab keychains, and a Concord HS Bears sticker. "So, we have a 'cool factor,' which is engaging, and we have the fundamentals." He said students use industry-standard vector-based software to create designs that will direct the laser technology to create professional grade items. "We're not just cutting shapes," he said. "We're actually designing." Eventually, he said students may design "wearable technology" using the sewing machines. "I can teach them how to design and they can take it from there," he said, adding that the lab's motto is: "imagine, create, and inspire." Dr. Clark thanked those who attended the event, calling the lab "a gem" and adding: "I want to standardize this passion" and connection to real life things. "It is imperative that our educators find things that interest our students," he said, adding that the District supports innovation and is committed to preparing students for college and careers. Career Integrated Manufacturing students Jacob Anderson, Angie Flores and Aaron Vaino, who are all sophomores, said they appreciated the InFab Lab and enjoyed working with robotic arms and other technology. Jacob, who was encountering a problem with the robotic arm, said he understood that he could learn through trial and error. Angie said she wants to major in engineering in college and is having fun learning in the lab. Aaron said the InFab Lab is a big improvement over the classroom they worked in last year for their Engineering Essentials class, which he said was a computer lab that was an offshoot of wood shop. "We can do things much faster now," he said. "And the robotic arm is really fun to use and it's interesting." School Social Media Highlights Gregory Gardens, Bel Air and Valle Verde elementary schools MDUSD Elementary Schools continue to inform the community about what's going on at their sites through social media. Recent highlights include: a variety of activities inside and outside the classroom at Gregory Gardens Elementary, Dr. Francies educates Bel Air Elementary students about how to address microaggressions, and Valle Verde Elementary thanks an Eagle Scout for his project providing garden benches for the campus. Pleasant Hill, Sequoia and Oak Grove middle schools MDUSD middle school students have been enjoying time outdoors. Recent Social Media highlights include: Pleasant Hill MS students celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, Sequoia MS students enjoying a delicious BBQ lunch provided by MDUSD's Food Services Dept., and Oak Grove MS students visiting the College Now program at Diablo Valley College . Northgate, Olympic, and Concord high schools and the College Now program at DVC MDUSD high school students are enjoying a variety of academic, social and athletic activities. Recent social media highlights include: The Northgate HS girls wrestling team learns from Olympic Champ Amit Elor, Olympic HS students enjoy pan dulce and hot chocolate during Latin Heritage Month, College Now senior Nayely submits her CSU application as teachers cheer for her and other seniors, and the Concord HS Girls Flag Football team celebrates its win vs. Las Lomas and honors seniors in a “Ladies Night” instagram reel. Staff Social Media Highlights Valle Verde Elementary, Delta View Elementary, Northgate HS and MDUSD Career Pathways MDUSD staff members are coming and going. Recent social media highlights include: Valle Verde Elementary says “goodbye” to retiring office manager Debi Massey, Delta View Elementary staff members demonstrate safe trike riding to kinders, Northgate HS announces new girls basketball assistant varsity coach Ali Bamberger, Career Pathways introduces new counselor Jorge Salinas-Tognetti. Important Dates Oct. 30: Fentanyl Awareness: Facts & Tools to Save a Life event at 6 p.m. at Diablo View MS in Clayton (See District News above) Nov. 1: No school: Teacher In-service Day ; District Offices open Nov. 11: Schools and District Offices Closed for the Veterans Day Holiday Nov. 13: District Governing Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Nov. 14: Measure J Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) meeting at 5 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom; African American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) meeting at 6 p.m. at the Black Family Resource Center in Bay Point: Nov. 19: Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord; Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions
Saturday, Oct 26 2024
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Friday Letter - October 18, 2024
OCTOBER 18, 2024 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 7 NO. 10 Dear Mt. Diablo Unified Community, I am thrilled to introduce this week's Friday Letter, filled with inspiring stories and events happening across our District! One of the most exciting events of the year is the Career Education Fair held at Concord High School . This is an incredible opportunity for students to engage with professionals from a variety of industries. Whether students are considering college, career paths, or hands-on vocational training, this event offers a peek into those pathways. I’m also excited to share that Concord High football star Jayden Reger has been featured by WestCoast Preps as the "comeback player of the year" after overcoming huge challenges, and Mt. Diablo High’s Tennis Team Captain Samantha Bravo Ortega is in the spotlight for her leadership and achievements on and off the court! Our school news this week highlights a field trip taken by the students from Mt. Diablo Adult Education's High School Equivalency Program to the newly renovated Pleasant Hill Library . These adult learners had the chance to sign up for library cards and check out books. Other items of interest include: A news story by Northgate HS journalist Caroline Donohoe , Pleasant Hill MS art students celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month , and School and Staff Social Media Highlights . There’s no shortage of exciting stories this week, and I’m so proud of all our students, staff, and programs across the District. Thank you for your support as we work to support all our learners! Have a great weekend! Thank you, Adam Clark, Ed.D. Superintendent Spotlight Career Education Fair at Concord HS shows District students variety of options after graduation MDUSD high school students learn about career training opportunities from organizations including (l-r), Contra Costa Firefighters, Operating Engineers Local 3 and Kaiser Permanente during the annual Career Education Fair at Concord HS on Oct. 16th. Students from all District high schools had the opportunity to meet with representatives from nearly 50 organizations offering training and career opportunities during the 7th annual Career Education Fair at Concord High School on Oct. 16th. The MDUSD Career Pathways Program event, organized in partnership with CHS College and Career Advisor Sheila Bergum, highlighted many options that don't necessarily require 4-year college degrees, but offer training, high salaries, excellent benefits. 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. "Not all students are going to go directly to college," said Heather Fontanilla, MDUSD Director of College and Career Readiness, explaining that the fair exposes them to what else is out there. She said news reports have recently noted that plumbers and HVAC techs can become millionaires, showing the value of skilled trades. The District's 21 high school Career Pathways programs also help to expose students to a variety of career fields including healthcare, digital arts, engineering, culinary arts, and hospitality, she added. Students from other schools were bused to the fair and given time to browse the career booths, ask questions, and sign up for more information, along with Concord HS students. Concord HS senior Nicholas Gutlalenko said he really enjoyed finding out about healthcare careers such as becoming a medical assistant at the Kaiser booth. His classmate Rosh Well, a junior, said he appreciated the fair because he hasn't yet decided what kind of career he wants to pursue and it was interesting to see the variety of options available. He said he might consider sports medicine, since he is an athlete and his mother is a nurse. A few organizations also offered hands-on experiences. Outside the gym, students were able to try on Contra Costa firefighters' gear and sit in a fire engine, or operate an excavator while they learned about careers as Operating Engineers from the Local 3 union. Contra Costa Fire Captain Denis Ware told students firefighting pays well and provides a lot of camaraderie. "I love it," he said, adding that he enjoyed speaking to students about his career because a lot of people don't consider firefighting unless they have relatives in the field. College Park HS senior Dante Nishizawa, who tried on some firefighting gear, said he is interested in becoming a firefighter. "I think I'd enjoy it," he said. Meanwhile, Operating Engineers Local 3 Apprenticeship Coordinator Richie Dominguez was showing students how to operate the excavator and telling them the benefits of joining his field. The starting salary is $32.87 per hour and goes up based on years of experience. The job includes family medical coverage and a pension after retirement. He currently oversees 120 apprentices, including 13 women, he said proudly. "They are our future," he said, adding that the fair gives organizations like his the opportunity to recruit the next generation of equipment operators. Anna Ramos, manager of youth development and support services, praised Bergum for continuing to spearhead the event she started several years ago. "It's been really beneficial to a lot of the students," Ramos said, adding that some of the most popular booths were PG&E, the U.S. Army, Pacific States Aviation, and Operating Engineers. Each year, the organizers try to improve the fair, she said. This year, they included students from all the District's alternative high school programs and provided sign-up sheets to follow up with students who are interested in specific organizations. The District will offer a similar career fair to 8th-graders in January. Click on the Social Media posts and reel below to see more highlights from the event. Olympic HS students (above) and College Now students (below) enjoy the fair. Mt. Diablo HS students check out the fair (above) and students visit indoor booths as well as outdoor displays (below) District News 2025-26 and 2026-27 School Year Calendar Survey available through Oct. 31st MDUSD is seeking input to help us create 2025-26 and 2026-27 academic calendar schedules that meet the needs of our students, parents, and staff. We are asking interested parents, staff and high school students to complete a survey in English or Spanish that includes questions about the Fall Break; start of the school year; end of the school year; Thanksgiving, winter and spring breaks; and 3- or 4-day weekends. In addition, elementary parents and staff will be asked about parent-teacher conferences. There is also space for other suggestions or comments. Please click here to complete the survey, which closes at 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31st. Mt. Diablo Adult Education hosts a successful MDUSD Parent Conference Latina counselors held a parent workshop on families and school systems systems (above left and center) and Concord Police presented a workshop on responsibly navigating a digital world (above right) at the MDUSD Parent Conference on Sept. 28 at the Loma Vista Adult Center in Concord. Mt. Diablo Adult Education hosted another successful annual MDUSD Parent Conference on Saturday, September 28th at the Loma Vista Adult Center in Concord. Each year, MDUSD's Adult Education and K-12 programs work together to bring a fun-filled day of workshops and community resources to the parents of our community, said Adult Education Vice Principal Maureen Campbell. "This year we offered everything from High School graduation requirements to how to raise a culturally sensitive student," she said. "It is a truly rewarding experience to witness our families' excitement and engagement with community members. We thank everyone who came out for this event and look forward to another great Parent Conference next year." California releases standardized test results in English Language Arts and math On Oct. 10, the state released standardized test scores for students in grades 3-8 and 11 last spring in English Language Arts (ELA) and math for all Districts and schools. Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark sent a message to families and staff comparing the statewide results to MDUSD results, which can be found on the state website here . EdSource has also created a searchable database that shows Mt. Diablo Unified School District results here . You can also search by schools to see how students at your child's school performed on the tests. In addition, parents can access their students' scores in their Aeries Homelink accounts. MDUSD celebrates National School Lunch Week, promotes fruits and vegetables in school meals MDUSD Food & Nutrition Services Director Alexandra Emmott (left) and Center for Ecoliteracy and Executive Director Alexa Norstad joined KRON "Live! In the Bay" host Rachael Maurer on Oct. 9th to chat about how they are helping to educate students on the importance of choosing fresh, local foods and working with local farmers to include tasty fruits and vegetables in school meals. You can watch the interview here . MDUSD also celebrated National School Lunch Week Oct. 14-17, with special "Pirate's Treasure" menu items. The District serves over 12,000 lunches daily and almost 2.2 million annually, all at no cost. You can find this month's menus here and see some photos from Ayers Elementary School's lunch week celebration below (and check out Staff Social Media highlights to see the Food and Nutrition staff)! Ayers Elementary students celebrate National School Lunch Week with Pirate's Treasure theme. Free Community Vaccine event at Mt. Diablo Adult Education in Concord on Saturday, Oct. 19 Mt. Diablo Adult Education is collaborating with Contra Costa Health to host a free Community Vaccine Clinic from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19 at the Loma Visa Adult Center, 1266 San Carlos Ave. in Concord. Everyone is welcome regardless of immigration status or health insurance. Vaccines are available for flu; Tdap, HPV & Meningococcal for adolescents; COVID-19 (Moderna) upon availability. Free at-home COVID test will also be available while supplies last. Additional details are here and in the attached flyers. Experience Dyslexia Simulation is Monday, Oct. 21 at Willow Creek Center in Concord MDUSD's Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC) is offering a free "Experience Dyslexia Simulation" Workshop at 6 p.m. Monday, October 21 at Willow Creek Center, 1026 Mohr Lane in Concord. This workshop provides hands on experiences that allow participants to experience some of the challenges and frustrations that people with language based learning disabilities face daily. Six interactive stations will be available to experience and understand how dyslexia impacts decoding, comprehension, and writing. Register here or by scanning the QR code in the flyer. Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meets Tuesday, Oct. 22 at Willow Creek Center in Concord MDUSD's Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) will meet at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22 at Willow Creek Center, 1026 Mohr Lane in Concord. The agenda includes: Introductions and the State of the District by Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark, as well as a discussion of the Local Control and Accountability Plan, or LCAP . The meeting is open to the public. The agenda is here . Board Briefs: Board met Oct. 16, meets again Wednesday, Oct. 23 The MDUSD School Board met Oct. 16 to approve a resolution declaring October 23-31, 2024 as Red Ribbon Week , and approve updates to Board policies, among other items. The complete agenda is here . The Board will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 23 to hear a report on the German Partnership Program at Northgate HS, and approve a minor revision to a Board meeting bylaw, among other items. The agenda is 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 . The MDUSD School Board has declared Oct. 23-31, 2024 as Red Ribbon Week and 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 2024 Red Ribbon Week Theme that "Life is a movie, film drug free." The District also encourages the community to take part in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Oct. 26 (see flyer ). Central Contra Costa/Mt. Diablo Adult Education Career & Resources Fair is Thursday, Oct. 24 The Central Contra Costa/Mt. Diablo Adult Education Career & Resources Fair is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24 at the Loma Vista Adult Center, 1266 San Carlos Ave. in Concord. The free event will include networking, job opportunities, and resources for professional development and community services. Participants can connect with local businesses, organizations, and experts in various fields to explore career options. It is especially beneficial for veterans, youth and individuals with disabilities and will include career counseling and resume review services. RSVP here . 12th Annual MDUSD College Fair is Thursday, Oct. 24th at Ygnacio Valley HS in Concord The 12th Annual MDUSD College Fair is from 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24 at Ygnacio Valley HS, 755 Oak Grove Road in Concord. It is open only to students and parents/guardians from MDUSD high schools or Adult programs. Students must show a student ID or proof of attending a MDUSD Adult program to enter the fair. ● Meet more than 90 representatives from colleges and universities. ● Learn about other post-secondary options and gather resources. ● Get answers to questions and make an informed decision about the right fit. ● Ideal for HS juniors and seniors! This event is run entirely by volunteers. To volunteer or ask questions, email mdusdcollegefair@gmail.com. Fentanyl Awareness: Facts & Tools to Save a Life event on Wednesday, Oct. 30 at Diablo View MS MDUSD will host a Free Fentanyl Awareness and Saving a Life Event at 6 p.m. Wednesday, October 30 at Diablo View Middle School, 300 Diablo View Lane in Clayton. We will 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. Each adult who registers will receive a free Naloxone Kit. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get the tools you can use to save a life. Use this link to register for this event. Information about past fentanyl events is here . Most applications for Intradistrict Transfers in 2025-26 are available through Nov. 10 From October 10 - November 10, 2024, the Intradistrict Transfer Applications are available for all schools, grades 1-12 and for Sequoia and Monte Gardens elementary schools' Kindergarten. Currently enrolled students complete the application using their Aeries Homelink Portal. Students that are not currently enrolled can use a link available on the District website here . The Intradistrict Transfer Application window for Kindergarteners (except Sequoia and Monte Gardens) will continue to take place in the Spring (February - March). All families with students eligible to apply for an Intradistrict Transfer during the October-November timeframe were sent a Parent Square notice as a reminder prior to October 10th. MDUSD Students in the News Concord HS Football Player Jayden Reger a "Comeback Player of the Year," by WestCoast Preps Concord HS Football's senior running back Jayden Reger has been through a lot over the past football season. In 2023, Reger suffered a season-ending ankle injury early on in the year. "This season, Reger has made a comeback, scoring 10 touchdowns for the Bears in their first five games," says WestCoast Preps, in an article titled: "Concord's Jayden Reger: Comeback Player of the Year." You can read more about the senior at https://westcoastpreps.com/concords-jayden-reger-comeback-player-of-the-year/ . Congrats and Go, Bears! Pioneer Athlete Spotlight on Samantha Bravo Ortega, Mt. Diablo High Girls Tennis Team Captain Congratulations to Mt. Diablo HS Girls Tennis Team Captain Samantha Bravo Ortega, who was featured recently in a Pioneer Athlete Spotlight ! Samantha, is also a College Now student at DVC, who wants to be an engineer. “I love coming to practice, I learn and have so much fun, I just can’t wait to go see my team every day,” says the junior captain. Head coach Ryan Leuschen says Bravo took the No. 1 singles position when she joined the team a year ago and has never relinquished it. "Samantha is the epitome of what a student athlete should and needs to be," he said. "She puts academics as her first priority-excelling in the classroom, attending College Now–and then brings that same mentality to the court, pushing and motivating her teammates to get better every practice. As the captain of our team, she stands as the best role model with admirable character and leadership.” Assistant coach Olin Caban adds that not only is she "a role model to her teammates, she also is an inspiration to us coaches. She is the quintessential student scholar athlete. She leads by example in the classroom and on the court." Congrats, and Go, Red Devils! Northgate HS student journalist Caroline Donahoe reflects on school violence across the country Northgate HS student journalist recently wrote an article published by Bay City News as part of the Contra Costa Youth Journalism Project. In the well-written and well-researched article, Caroline reflects on violence on school campuses across the Bay Area, state and country and includes interviews with MDUSD Board Member Cherise Khaund, Northgate HS Vice Principal Tucker Farrar, Northgate HS teacher Brian Corbett, and NHS student Taelyn Jriyasetapong. The article also includes a student poll she conducted on campus and highlighted the SAVE Promise Club , a youth-led club through Sandy Hook Promise. "SAVE stands for Students Against Violence Everywhere," she wrote. "The program seeks to improve campus safety in many ways, including educating students about Sandy Hook Promise programs, giving youth a way to voice their opinions and concerns, engaging the community in events and assemblies, and encouraging prioritizing mental health and self-care." She also pointed to the school's Wellness Center opened in 2023, writing that it provides "a safe space on campus where students can go at any time to take a break or speak with a counselor. Many Northgate students said they have not needed to visit the wellness center yet, but those who had said it helped them. School News MDUSD Adult School students take field trip to the Pleasant Hill Library Adult Education student Maya Jackson logs onto a library computer to fill out a form for a new library card (above left). Instructors Tiffany Paynton Silveira (second from left) and Elizabeth Brooking (third from right) stand with students in the library (above right). Several students from the Mt. Diablo Adult School's High School Equivalency program took a field trip to the Pleasant Hill Library on October 5th with Academic Programs Coordinator Robin Bielman and instructors Tiffany Paynton Silveira and Elizabeth Brooking. "The field trip was a great way for us to bring the community and our students together, and share all of the resources that our county libraries have to offer." Bielman said. "All of the students got library cards, and everyone checked out books. It was a great event that we plan to continue every term!" Pleasant Hill MS art students celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month Thank you to Pleasant Hill MS art teacher Lyn Bergen, who sent photos of her students creating a Hispanic Heritage Month display and recognizing the month with face-painting and multicultural flags decorating the campus. You can see their finished display in the Middle School Social Media Highlights below. School Social Media Highlights Meadow Homes, Westwood, Walnut Acres and Shore Acres elementary schools After the Fall Recess, elementary students hit the ground running with a variety of academic and community-building activities. Social media highlights included: Meadow Homes Elementary held a walk and roll to school event, Westwood Elementary held a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, Walnut Acres Elementary students enjoyed "ghost math" in the library, and Shore Acres Elementary students created banners and discussed empathy and how to be a buddy for Bullying Prevention Month. S equoia, Pleasant Hill and Pine Hollow middle schools MDUSD middle school students have recently enjoyed group activities, such as inspiring assemblies for Sequoia MS AVID and journalism students, a beautiful Hispanic Heritage Month display created by Pleasant Hill MS art students, and Pine Hollow MS students showing their Mustang Pride by wearing school t-shirts. Mt. Diablo, Ygnacio Valley, Concord, and Northgate high schools MDUSD high school students are supporting each other both inside and outside the classroom. Recent Social Media Highlights include: Mt. Diablo HS band students enjoying the school's new music program after its 5-year absence, Ygnacio Valley HS girls volleyball players excited to watch the UC Berkeley volleyball team play and meet Oski the Bear mascot, Concord HS Bilingual Ambassadors helping to translate for ELD 1 students at the school's Career Education Fair, and Northgate HS fans and athletes celebrating the Bronco's football win over Las Lomas in the Battle of the Creek! Staff Social Media Highlights Valle Verde Elementary, Ayers Elementary, Mt. Diablo HS and Oak Grove MS Staff members throughout MDUSD have enjoyed celebrating Custodian Appreciation Day, National School Lunch Week and the Week of the School Administrator! Recent Social Media highlights include: A belated custodian appreciation post by Valle Verde Elementary praising custodian Mr. Doug, Ayers Elementary Food and Nutrition Services staffers getting into the Pirate theme during National School Lunch Week, and counselors celebrating Mt. Diablo HS and Oak Grove MS administrators during the CA Week of the School Administrator! #MDUSDProud! Important Dates Oct. 22: Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord Oct. 23: District Governing Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Oct. 24: Central Contra Costa/Mt. Diablo Adult Education Career and Resources Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p,.m. at the Loma Vista Adult Center in Concord; District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center; MDUSD College Fair at 6:30 p.m. at Ygnacio Valley HS in Concord Oct. 30: Fentanyl Awareness: Facts & Tools to Save a Life event at 6 p.m. at Diablo View MS in Clayton Nov. 1: No school: Teacher In-service Day; District Offices open Nov. 11: Schools and District Offices Closed for the Veterans Day Holiday The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions.
Saturday, Oct 19 2024
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Friday Letter - October 4, 2024
OCTOBER 4, 2024 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 7 NO. 9 Dear MDUSD Community, I hope everyone is looking forward to our first October Break and take this opportunity to relax and recharge! We are excited to welcome all students and staff back to school on Monday, October 14, refreshed and ready for the busy months ahead. This week, we have a few exciting highlights to share. First, I’m proud to spotlight the incredible work happening at Gregory Gardens and Robert Shearer Preschool with our Young Athletes Program . It's a wonderful initiative that supports inclusion and early development through sports and play. We also want to celebrate Concord High School student Kevin O'Connor, who was featured on KTVU for his work in the school's cafeteria, helping to bring fresh fruits and vegetables to our students . In student news, there’s much to celebrate! Cambridge Elementary students recently showcased their leadership skills by creating posters for their student council elections and received a surprise visit from me during their preparations. Additionally, Concord High School's Link Crew Program held a successful field day for the younger students at Mountain View Elementar y. We are thrilled to announce that two Northgate High School students, Caroline Donahoe and Sylvana Vuong, have been selected to join the Contra Costa Youth Journalism program . Lastly, Ygnacio Valley High School's football team continues to make headlines with three consecutive wins. Come support the team at tonight’s homecoming game against San Lorenzo! In school news, Pleasant Hill Elementary’s Bike PHE program was recently recognized at the Bike East Bay 2024 Biketopia event, winning the Best Bike Advocacy award , and Northgate High School earned two prestigious honors: being named to the College Board AP Honor Roll for the second year and receiving the AP Access award for increasing participation among historically underrepresented students . We also celebrate staff achievements, including a national Girl Scout award for Megan Gerdts' outstanding service to the Northern California Girl Scout Council . Check out the social media highlights, including special recognition for our custodians and Technology Integration Leaders who continue to have an impact in our schools. Thank you, Dr. Adam Clark Superintendent, Mt. Diablo Unified School District Spotlights Young Athletes program at Robert Shearer Preschool and Gregory Gardens Elementary builds inclusive student relationships Robert Shearer Preschool student Lucas Tank shoots baskets the the assistance of Gregory Gardens Elementary 5th grade buddies (left); 5th-graders Ana Paixao and Neila Geagan help preschooler Logan with the bean bag toss (center); and Julio Soriano helps his son Velentino walk on the balance beam (right). Robert Shearer Preschool students, parents and staff members joined 5th-grade "buddies" at Gregory Gardens Elementary on the playground on Friday for the 3rd Special Olympics Young Athletes program, which helps the youngsters - who are all in special education classes - to learn about sports while also helping to build relationships and a sense of community with the older kids. The preschool students are in a variety of special needs programs, such as for deaf, hard of hearing, autism and other disabilities. Currently, 80 students are enrolled in the school, but site administrator Jessica Phillips said the school adds new students throughout the year. The Deaf and Hard of Hearing program serves students ages 18 months to 3 and the preschool serves 3 and 4-year-olds before they enter Transitional Kindergarten. Sheri Roberti, the Special Olympics Schools Partnership Program coordinator for the Contra Costa County Office of Education, said the goal of the program is to introduce young children to the world of sports so they will feel comfortable participating in other Special Olympics sports events as they get older, such as soccer, bowling, swimming, basketball and track. The Young Athletes event included about 10 different activity stations such as basketball, a bean bag toss, walking a balance beam, playing with a giant parachute, soccer, crawling through a tunnel, bowling, and more. Brooke and Trevor Tank's 4-year-old son Lucas jumped up and down excitedly after he tossed basketballs into hoops with the aid of cheering Gregory Gardens buddies, as his parents watched. "I think this is really cool," Brooke said. "He loves basketball." Trevor added: "It's nice that the older kids are helping out." Fifth-grader Cassidy Willforn said he enjoyed working with the younger kids, as he and two other boys shouted encouragement, such as "You've got this! You can do it!" Francy Soriano, whose 3-year-old son Valentino is autistic, said he enjoyed playing basketball, bowling, and playing with the parachute with his older buddies, before getting help on the balance beam from his Dad. "Playing with balls is his favorite thing to do," Francy said. "I'm glad they have this for kids with special needs. The older kids are very friendly. I like how they cheer him up and they have a lot of patience with him." Gregory Gardens buddies Neila Geagan and Ana Paixo said they were excited to be able to interact with the younger kids playing bean bag toss. "Little or big, it doesn't matter, as long as you're having fun together," Ana said. The girls have even learned a little sign language so they can communicate more easily with those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. "They look up to us and we try to be a good role model," Neila said. Fifth-grader Damien Meija proudly wore his Special Olympics " Unified Sports " ribbon after helping out the younger kids during the morning session. "Just seeing the kids happy and laughing, with a smile on their face - it makes my heart feel very warm," he said. "It makes me happy to see kids with special needs happy." Phillips coordinated with Gregory Gardens Principal Katie Koontz to launch the program on their joint campus two years ago. "One of our goals is to try to plan activities where we can have parents involved," Phillips said, adding that the preschool is the parents' first experience with school, so it is important to build community and create a safe space where educators and parents can work together for the benefit of students. The event also served as an introduction to a yearlong "buddies" program where interested 5th-graders continue working with the preschoolers, forming special bonds of friendship, both school administrators said. Click on the reel (left) to see highlights from the day, as well as on tweets (above and right) showing photos from the event. Concord HS student Kevin O'Connor highlights fruits and vegetables in school meals on KTVU To help bring attention to "Farm-to-School Month" in October, MDUSD has teamed up with the Center for Ecoliteracy to highlight the fresh fruits and vegetables that are now being served in local schools. Concord HS senior Kevin O'Connor, who works in the Concord HS cafeteria, was featured today (Friday) as part of this promotion on KTVU's "Mornings on 2" program with Alexa Norstad, Executive Director of the Center for Ecoliteracy. Kevin showed how to make panzanella salad with lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, fresh-made croutons and parmesan cheese. He also talked about yogurt parfaits served for breakfast, made with homemade granola, locally-sourced yogurt and fresh fruit. You can watch Kevin's interview here . Next week, MDUSD's Food and Nutrition Services Director Alexandra Emmott will appear on KRON TV to discuss the District's commitment to locally-sourced, nutritious foods. "Serving fresh produce supports student health and the local economy," Emmott says. "We pride ourselves on supporting a variety of small organic farmers and producers. Yogurt parfaits, made with Sierra Nevada Creamery Greek yogurt, is a fixture on our menus and panzanella salad is a seasonal treat that features fresh Durst Farm tomatoes." District News No School during Fall Recess next week: October 7-11 MDUSD schools will be closed next week, October 7-11, for our Fall Recess. However, District Offices will be open during this time. The complete 2024-25 Academic Calendar is here . There will be no Friday Letter on Oct. 11. The Friday Letter will resume on Oct. 18. Intradistrict Transfer Changes: Most applications for 2025-26 available starting Thursday, Oct. 10 From October 10 - November 10, 2024, the Intradistrict Transfer Application will be available for all schools, grades 1-12 and for Sequoia and Monte Gardens elementary schools' Kindergarten. Currently enrolled students will complete the application using their Aeries Homelink Portal. Students that are not currently enrolled will use a link available on the District website starting October 10th. The Intradistrict Transfer Application window for Kindergarteners (except Sequoia and Monte Gardens) will continue to take place in the Spring (February - March). All families with students eligible to apply for an Intradistrict Transfer during the October-November timeframe will be sent a Parent Square notice as a reminder prior to October 10th. Board Briefs: Next Board meeting is Oct. 16 due to Fall Recess Although the MDUSD School Board normally meets the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, the first meeting of October will take place at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 16 due the the Fall Recess the prior week. The Board expects to approve a resolution declaring October 23-31, 2024 as Red Ribbon Week, among other items. The agenda will be posted here after 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11th. 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 . Social Work Wellness Wrap newsletter highlights work at School Wellness Centers MDUSD's Social Work Specialists are pleased to present a new monthly Newsletter, " Wellness Wrap ," highlighting events from September. This issue includes: What is a Wellness Center? A Wellness Center Spotlight on Olympic HS Wellness Center locations Mental Health Resources Click on the attached newsletters for more information. MDUSD's Adult Education Lifelong Learning program offers new classes in October MDUSD's Adult Lifelong Education program has plenty to offer in October, including cooking, crafts including candle making, finance, fitness, home improvement, Spanish language, personal enrichment, technology, woodturning and woodworking! Details are in the program's October newsletter here . More information about Mt. Diablo Adult Education is on the MDAE website here . MDUSD African American Parent Advisory Council and MDUSD Black Educators updates Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark stands with (l-r) Valle Verde Elementary School Principal Mignon Perkins, Diablo View Middle School Vice Principal Ify Obi, Student Services Director Dr. Felicia Stuckey-Smith, Concord Vice Principal Nashon Williams and Program Specialist Dr. Diane Fitzpatrick at the recent Black Educators Association meeting (left), Dr. Clark and Dr. Stuckey-Smith chat (center), and Dr. Stuckey-Smith presents to the group (right). As MDUSD works to continue strengthening supports for African American students and families, we are excited that 17 District schools have expressed interest in hosting their own site-level African American Parent Advisory Councils (AAPACs), said Dr. Lamont Francies, Black/African American Family Engagement Coordinator . The first site-level AAPAC meeting was held by Sequoia Middle School on Sept. 19, followed by Sequoia Elementary on Sept. 20. Other schools that have expressed an interest in holding their own AAPACs are: Bel Air, Fair Oaks, Gregory Gardens, Meadow Homes, Monte Gardens, Mt. Diablo, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Acres, and Wren Avenue elementary schools; El Dorado, Pine Hollow and Riverview middle schools; and College Park, Concord and Olympic high schools. Representatives from each school site AAPAC will meet at the next District-level AAPAC on Oct. 17th. In addition, MDUSD's Black Educators held their first meeting Sept. 26, where members were able to network, meet new MDUSD employees, learn about support systems, gain practice advice from veteran educators and discover ways to increase African American student educational outcomes, Dr. Francies said. "We were honored to have our very own MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark drop in," Dr. Francies added. "He was elated to see the existence of this organization and offered his support for our objectives." Dr. Clark is the current president of the California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators ( CAAASA ), which is a group of educational leaders committed to identifying and addressing critical issues in education through public policy relative to the status and performance of African-American students in California. Dr. Felicia Stuckey-Smith, Director of Student Service, "did an amazing job" presenting the history of the MDUSD Black Educators Association and the opportunities it provides, Dr. Francies said. "She gave us seasoned advice on navigating educational spaces as Black professionals." The group plans to meet again on Oct. 15. 12th Annual MDUSD College Fair is Thursday, Oct. 24th at Ygnacio Valley HS The 12th Annual MDUSD College Fair is from 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24 at Ygnacio Valley HS, 755 Oak Grove Road in Concord. It is open only to students and parents/guardians from MDUSD high schools or Adult programs. Students must show a student ID or proof of attending a MDUSD Adult program to enter the fair. ● Meet more than 90 representatives from colleges and universities. ● Learn about other post-secondary options and gather resources. ● Get answers to questions and make an informed decision about the right fit. ● Ideal for HS juniors and seniors! This event is run entirely by volunteers. To volunteer or ask questions, email mdusdcollegefair@gmail.com. Fentanyl Awareness: Facts & Tools to Save a Life event on Wednesday, Oct. 30 at Diablo View MS MDUSD will host a Free Fentanyl Awareness and Saving a Life Event at 6 p.m. Wednesday, October 30 at Diablo View Middle School, 300 Diablo View Lane in Clayton. We will 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. Each adult who registers will receive a free Naloxone Kit. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get the tools you can use to save a life. Use this link to register for this event. Information about past fentanyl events is here . Student News The Link Crew Program at Concord HS holds field day at Mountain View Elementary Concord HS Link Crew members lead Mountain View Elementary students in Field Day activities (above) and pose for a photo in front of the school (below). Link Crew members at Concord HS wanted to volunteer at a local elementary school to give back to the community they grew up in, so they said led a Field Day at Mountain View Elementary on Sept. 27th, said CHS teacher and Link Crew coordinator Azeema Yahya. "This experience fostered a sense of responsibility and gratitude for the opportunities they’ve received," Azeema said. "In addition, students enjoyed the opportunity to act as role models and mentors for younger kids - as they do for 9th graders on our campus. By volunteering, high school students not only contributed to the well-being of younger students, but also gained valuable experiences that benefit their own personal and academic growth." The Link Crew led the activities for 3rd-graders, said Mountain View Elementary Principal Stacy Campbell. "They split students into groups and ran stations that included kickball, chalk drawing, corn hole, duck-duck-goose, and more," she said. "It was a really fun afternoon seeing the high school students connect with our elementary school students." More information about the Link Crew at Concord HS is here . Two Northgate HS students selected as reporters for Contra Costa Youth Journalism program Contra Costa Youth Journalism student journalists (l-r) Milan Barney, Keerthi Eraniyan, Emma Mayta Canales, Oscar Villalobos, Loujain Habibi, Hannah Grossetete, Anushka Kabra, Ishita Khanna, Cindy Alvarenga, Sylvana Vuong (NHS ), Madeleine Hanavan, Nakayla Conner and Caroline Donahoe (NHS) . Photo by Joshua Wagner. Northgate HS students Caroline Donahoe and Sylvana Vuong (Northgate HS) (Northgate HS) are among 13 students from 10 high schools across Contra Costa County selected as reporters for the Contra Costa Youth Journalism (CCYJ) program. Sponsored by the Contra Costa County Office of Education (CCCOE) in collaboration with various California news organizations and the Dean & Margaret Lesher Foundation, this six-month program offers high school students an opportunity to report on their schools and local communities. Under the mentorship of Bay Area professional journalists, the students will develop and publish their stories online at CCSpin.net, LocalNewsMatters.org, and other news outlets starting this month. This is the second CCYJ program cohort, which originally launched in January 2024. “Journalism is a crucial aspect of this democracy and encouraging students to bring their critical thinking, research and communication skills to bear on the issues affecting their communities is something all educators should support,” said Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey. “It is my hope that we are able to sustain the Contra Costa Youth Journalism project and encourage the expansion of student journalism programs throughout the county.” More information is here . School News Cambridge Elementary holds Student Council elections and gets surprise visit from Dr. Clark Cambridge Elementary Student Council candidates hold their campaign posters (above) and Dr. Clark reads to a 1st grade class (below). Students at Cambridge Elementary in Concord have been very busy recently! Fourth and fifth grade students ran for student council positions by making campaign posters and giving speeches to the school before the election on Sept. 26th, said Vice Principal Madyson Souza Benz. Then on Sept. 27th, the first grade students got a surprise visit from Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark. "They asked him questions about being superintendent and he read them a book, ' Abuela ,' by Arthur Dorros, to help them continue celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month." ("Abuela" means "Grandmother" in Spanish.) Hispanic Heritage Month is Sept. 15-Oct. 15. Pleasant Hill Elementary's "Bike PHE" walk'n roll program wins Bike Advocacy Award Pleasant Hill Elem. Bike PHE parent volunteers (l-r) Jennifer Parenti, Cat Hodgson, Cara De Jong, Council Member for Concord Laura Nakamura, Morgan Segal, student Sage Tennessen, parents Danny Milks and Kristin Tennessen, student Skye Tennesen and parent Tara Walsh attend Biketopia and accept the award (above). Congratulations to the "Bike PHE" walk'n roll program at Pleasant Hill Elementary, which received the "Best Bike Advocacy" award at the Bike East Bay 2024 Biketopia event on Sept. 30th for their outstanding work in bike advocacy, accessibility and education in the East Bay! "Started in September 2022, as a school bike club, the program has inspired hundreds of people to walk and bike to school, and other places," said parent volunteer Cat Hodgson. "It has worked with other members of the community to get the first Bike and Pedestrian Plan in Pleasant Hill passed and hosted three bike festivals." Several parent volunteers including Hodgson attended the event and accepted the award (photos above). More information about Bike PHE is here . Northgate HS earns Advanced Placement "Honor Roll" recognition for second year Northgate HS proud to share that the school has been named the College Board AP Honor Roll for a 2nd year, earning Gold level recognition in 2023-24, increasing its metrics towards platinum! "The recognition I am most proud of however is the AP Access award , which recognizes that our percentages of underrepresented or historically marginalized populations taking AP courses represents a proportional total of students," Principal Kelly Cooper said. "This was a goal of mine when I first arrived, and it is great to see," she added. The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools that have done outstanding work to welcome more students into AP courses and support them on the path to college success, according to the College Board. " Research shows that students who take AP courses and exams are more likely to attend college and graduate on time," said Head of AP and Instruction Trevor Packer in a congratulatory letter to Northgate HS. "The students who enter four-year colleges with credit from AP accelerate their path to graduation and build confidence for college success. And even for those who don’t earn college credit, AP coursework provides early exposure to college-level work and contributes to a college-going school culture." "We know it takes a significant schoolwide effort—dedication from teachers, counselors, administrators, students, and parents—to make AP access a priority," the letter continued. "We join you in celebrating this inspiring achievement for your community." Ygnacio Valley HS Football team continues to make news with first winning record since 2019 After winning its third game in a row last week by beating Richmond 44-0, the Ygnacio Valley HS Wolves Football team continues to garner attention from Bay Area News Group's football reporters, achieving top-billing in their " Monday Morning Lights " feature with a highlight titled: "Ygnacio Valley: Wolves Revitalizing Community," noting that coaches from other teams are starting to scout YVHS, which Coach Rae Jackson Sr. has never seen before. “Our whole valley is waking up and everybody is trying to figure out what is going on at YV," Jackson said...“This is going to be the start of what is probably going to be a resurgence of Ygnacio Valley football.” According to Jackson, both home games this season were packed and he has gotten positive feedback from local residents about how well the Wolves have started to play. “We’re revitalizing the community and giving them a team,” he said. “We got the A’s gone, the Warriors gone, the Raiders gone. People can come on and be a YV fan.” And for the first time any of the reporters could remember, they discussed the upcoming Friday night homecoming game against San Lorenzo in their Weekly Predictions column and video , with all five reporters predicting YVHS will beat their opponent in the 7 p.m. game. One praised freshman quarterback Jalen Fayad, another said the team is building momentum. "I don't think anyone's taking YV lightly anymore," said reporter Joseph Dycus, remarking on this unprecedented "clean sweep" positive predictions. Go, Wolves! School Social Media Highlights Ayers, Cambridge and Valle Verde elementary schools and Holbrook Language Academy MDUSD elementary schools have been participating in community-building events. Recent social media highlights include: A Micro Forest Tree Planting event at Ayers Elementary , a Family Literacy Night at Cambridge Elementary , a Walk and Roll to school day in partnership with the Concord Police at Holbrook Language Academy , and a Viking Fun Run at Valle Verde Elementary . Diablo View, Oak Grove, Sequoia and Pine Hollow middle schools MDUSD middle schoolers have enjoyed a variety of activities inside and outside of the classroom. Recent social media highlights include: Diablo View MS SAVE Club members greeting families on Say Hello Day; Oak Grove MS students and staff showing school spirit for Dia de Loteria; a Sequoia MS students' serenade for Hispanic Heritage Month; and Pine Hollow MS 6th-graders getting hands-on Ocean Ambassadors science lessons. Northgate, Mt. Diablo and Olympic high schools and College Now MDUSD high school students, staff and even alumni have been busy lately. Recent social media highlights include: A Northgate HS 50-year anniversary football/alumni event; College Now students studying their own copies of the U.S. Constitution; Mt. Diablo HS tennis team members playing their first-ever night games; and Olympic HS students participating in Mock Elections. Staff News MDUSD Curriculum Specialist Megan Gerdts earns "Thanks Badge" National Girl Scout Award Megan and Kathy Gerdts (above) and with her sister Erin Lagier (below). Congratulations to MDUSD Curriculum Specialist Megan Gerdts on the recent "Thanks Badge" National Girl Scout Award she received in recognition of her volunteer work at the Girl Scouts of Northern California Council's Two Sentinels High Sierra Camp at Lake Kirkwood, which serves approximately 300 girls in 4th grade through high school! "I've been attending the camp as a camper from 1990-1995 and volunteer since 1996," Megan said, adding that her mom Kathy Gerdts - who is a retired El Monte Elementary teacher - was a volunteer staff member and director. "I am currently a volunteer director and my sister and two nephews also attend camp." The camp is located in the High Sierra at 8000 ft elevation. "We have no roads to our camp and all electricity is from a generator," she said. "This means that all materials must be rowed or carried in." During the past year, the generator that was installed in 1982 failed. "In order for camp to run, we must have power to keep our food cold," she said. "I worked with another volunteer to research generator systems that would work at 8000 ft and be able to withstand our long winters. We found a generator that would work and a company to install it. I worked with GSNorCal to support funding the system. The last hurdle was figuring out how to get an 1800-pound generator and two 400-pound batteries into camp." She and other volunteers researched the issue and determined that the equipment needed to be airlifted into the camp by helicopter. On June 5, a new generator and battery system were flown in (pictured above right). "Our new electrical and battery system was installed in time for camp to open this summer," she said. "We are our council's only camp that offers a graduated backpacking program which starts young campers with a day hike, up to our Superpackers who go on an 11-day trip, often trekking 60+ miles. We recruit, train, and support over 100 volunteer staff members. It truly takes a village!" In recognition of Megan's heroic efforts, she was given the "Thanks Badge," which notes that it is for “Outstanding service that benefitted the total council and is so above and beyond the call of duty that no other award is appropriate.” Kudos! Staff Social Media Highlights Technology Integration Leaders We continue our Technology Integration Leader spotlights with Rebecca Campos at Hidden Valley Elementary ; Allison Faghih at Concord HS ; Samantha Hopper at Ygnacio Valley HS ; and Brian Prentiss at Mountain View Elementary Technology Integration Leaders - continued And more Technology Integration Leaders including: Karith Vera at Silverwood Elementary ; Michael Tranate at Fair Oaks Elementary ; and Megan Belenkov at Gregory Gardens Elementary . Custodian Appreciation Day Schools and District Offices throughout MDUSD recognized custodians on Custodian Appreciation Day. Some social media highlights included: Recognition for Gregory Gardens Elementary/Robert Shearer Preschool custodian Eugene Torwell ; Fair Oaks Elementary custodians Mr. Richard and Mr. Ferdinand ; Valhalla Elementary custodians Mr. Ken and Mr. Nate ; and Holbrook Language Academy custodian Mr. Hernandez . Thank you to all MDUSD custodians for your tireless work on behalf of our students and staff! Community News Community Youth Center hosts early Halloween Block Party event on Friday, Oct. 18 in Concord The Community Youth Center will host an early Halloween Block Party event from 7-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18 at 2241 Galaxy Court in Concord. They are also looking for high school-aged volunteers. The cost is $20 per person for those ages 7 or older and free for children 6 and under, according to CYC Program Director Mawuko Tugbenyoh. More information is at www.communityyouthcenter.org/halloween and https://www.tickettailor.com/events/communityyouthcenter/1410218 . Those interested in volunteering can email aawasti@CYCMail.org. Important Dates Oct. 7-11: No School: Fall Recess (See District News above) Oct. 15: Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Oct. 16: District Governing Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Oct. 17: African American Parent Advisory Committee (AAPAC) meeting at 6 p.m. at the Black Family Resource Center in Bay Point Oct. 22: Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center in Concord Oct. 23: District Governing Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions.
Saturday, Oct 05 2024
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Friday Letter - September 27, 2024
SEPTEMBER 27, 2024 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 7 NO. 8 Welcome to this week’s Friday Letter! In celebration of Deaf Awareness Month, International Week of Deaf People, and International Day of Sign Languages , we are excited to feature the American Sign Language (ASL) program at Concord High School . As the only high school in the District to offer ASL as a World Language, this program provides a unique learning experience for our students. The course, taught by Matt Moyers, who is deaf, is supported by interpreters who also assist our Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) students. Concord High is part of the DHH continuum in MDUSD, which includes Robert R. Shearer Preschool, Westwood Elementary, and El Dorado Middle School. In other news, volunteers from the Rossmoor Pickleball Club are sharing their love of the game with students at El Dorado Middle School, using equipment funded through a grant. Also, Monte Gardens Elementary recently hosted a yummy International Food Festival , while the Wren Avenue Elementary PTA's Car Show fundraiser was a huge success. See more school, student and staff news in our Social Media Highlights ! We are proud of the many ways our schools and community are coming together to create enriching opportunities for all students. Enjoy the weekend! Thank you, Dr. Adam Clark Superintendent, Mt. Diablo Unified School District Spotlight American Sign Language courses taught by deaf teacher at Concord HS attract students interested in world language alternatives American Sign Language teacher Matt Moyers, right, who is deaf, communicates with his class by signing, while interpreter Marina Renfrow (left) vocalizes his words (above). Student Cody Hickok signs "Happy" (below left), Alexis Von Raesfeld signs "What?" (below center), and Rachel Fischer signs "Who?" (below right). As MDUSD continues our Deaf Awareness Month recognition in September, we are also highlighting the International Week of Deaf People this week (Sept. 23-29) and the International Day of Sign Languages, which was Monday, Sept. 23. Concord HS is the only high school in the District that offers American Sign Language (ASL) as a World Language, with three years so students can move from beginner to advanced levels, meeting graduation and A-G requirements. Teacher Matt Moyers, who is deaf, communicates with students using sign language, with interpreters who vocalize his words. He teaches about 185 students, including roughly 75 who are in the first level course. This is his sixth year of teaching and his third year teaching ASL at Concord HS. "I'm really enjoying it," Moyers said, adding: "I feel like they are my kids." In his 5th period Level 1 course on Tuesday, the 37 students in his class were learning to sign questions such as: "Who, where, what, why, how many, and which?" Moyers stressed that facial expressions are very important to help communicate meaning, similar to voice inflections when speaking. "The only way to learn ASL is by watching carefully and really copying and emulating the teacher," he said, adding that muscle memory will eventually kick in. "The more you use sign language, the better you become, just like with other languages." Students said they chose ASL instead of Spanish because it is less well-known and offers a unique way for them to express themselves, as well as to communicate with Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) students at the school. "I wanted to take this class because I don't think many people know how to do sign language and I wanted to learn it," said freshman Alexis Von Raesfelt, whose older brother is in his third year of ASL as a junior. Alexis said she also appreciates having a deaf teacher, which gives her a new perspective. "He's really sweet," she said, adding that she can have conversations with him even when the interpreter isn't there, using the sign language she has already learned. Freshman Rachel Fischer said she took American Sign Language because "it just kind of spoke to me more than other languages" and she likes using facial expressions to communicate. "It's really a lot about using your eyes and your eyebrows," she said, noting that her classmate Alexis scrunched her eyebrows when she signed, "what?" Rachel said learning from Moyers is "really cool because you get more insights into what it's like to be deaf and he's a really good teacher. You can tell he loves to teach." Freshman Xavier Niemeier said he took ASL because he was inspired by a friend of his who learned it on her own. "It's a lot of fun," he said. "At first, it was kind of challenging to move my fingers around, but after a while, I got used to it." Junior Cody Hickok said he likes communicating in sign language. "It allows me to vividly express my feelings," he said. "When I'm confused or happy, I can easily communicate with my facial expressions, when normally you wouldn't pay attention to that." For example, he smiled when he signed "happy" and frowned to express confusion as he signed "what?" Interpreter Marina Renfrow began taking ASL classes when she attended Berean Christian School, then she transferred to Concord HS to continue taking Level 3, graduated from CHS in 2002, went onto become an interpreter and has worked at CHS since 2008. "I fell in love with the language," she said. "I had taken Spanish, but it wasn't a good fit. I knew I wanted to become an interpreter." She works with Moyers in his 1st and 5th period Level 1 classes, and works with the school's Deaf and Hard of Hearing students the rest of the day. Freshman Alicia Paredes, who is Hard of Hearing, is a student in Moyers' 6th period Level 2 class, since she already knew sign language from attending Westwood Elementary and El Dorado MS, which are part of the District's DHH continuum. Visual Arts teacher David Hevel, who previously taught at Northgate and Mt. Diablo high schools, said having DHH classmates and seeing interpreters in their classes is "normalized" for all students at Concord HS. Deaf students are just like everyone else, and their interpreters "are actually a voice for the teacher or the student," he said. Moyers said he appreciates Deaf Awareness Month and the DHH and ASL programs at Concord HS. "It’s really nice to see more and more people signing," he said. "It makes the world a little better place for the deaf community in general. These students are our future and they’ll become company managers, and when a deaf person comes in, they will have already been exposed to a deaf person, and they’ll have some basic fundamentals." The only thing deaf people can't do, he said, is hear. Click on the reel (below left) to see Moyers and some of his students signing. Posters in Matt Moyers' ASL classroom urge students to participate (above), and stress that deafness is an identity not a disability (below and right). District News Board Briefs: Board received IB report, revised transfer request timelines The MDUSD School Board met Wednesday, Sept. 25 to receive a report on International Baccalaureate programs at Monte Gardens Elementary, Sequoia Elementary, Oak Grove MS and Ygnacio Valley HS in MDUSD; and approve several resolutions (see below), as well as updates to Board Policies including for Intradistrict transfers (see below), among other items. The complete agenda is here . Intradistrict Transfer Changes Beginning October 10 - November 10, 2024 the Intradistrict Transfer Application will be available for all schools, grades 1-12 and for Sequoia and Monte Gardens' Kindergarten. Currently enrolled students will complete the application using their Aeries Homelink Portal. Students that are not currently enrolled will use a link available on the District website starting October 10th. The Intradistrict Transfer Application window for Kindergarteners (except Sequoia and Monte Gardens) will continue to take place in the Spring (February - March). All families with students eligible to apply for an Intradistrict Transfer during the October-November timeframe will be sent a Parent Square notice as reminder prior to October 10th. The Board also approved resolutions in recognition of October as Filipino American History Month ; Disability Awareness Month ; Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ) History Month ; Dyslexia Awareness Month , and Anti-Bullying Awareness Month . The Board also approved resolutions recognizing Oct. 14 as Indigenous Peoples Day , and Oct. 13-19 as the California Week of the School Administrator , and Oct. 14-18 as National School Lunch Week . And the Board approved a resolution In Support of Proposition 2 , the Kindergarten through Grade 12 and Local Community College Public Education Facilities Modernization, Repair, and Safety Bond Act of 2024, in a vote of 4-0-1, with Trustee Debra Mason abstaining. 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 . Free Parent Conference on Saturday, Sept. 28th will include workshops and community resources MDUSD's Adult Education program will host the District's annual free Parent Conference for families of students in grades TK through high school from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28 at the Loma Vista Adult Center, 1266 San Carlos Avenue in Concord. Details are in the attached flyers in English , Spanish and Farsi . The event will include workshops on topics including communication, learning styles, navigating the school system, positive behavior, academic success, early childhood education, emotional development, and more. The complete list of workshops is attached . The conference will allow parents to engage with educators, exchange ideas with other parents, and learn parenting skills. After the workshops, parents can connect with experts at a Community Resource Fair and find information about parenting, child development, education, health, and more! Childcare will be provided for children ages 3-10 (no diapers), and registered participants will receive a BBQ lunch. Registration will take place from 8-8:30 a.m. the morning of the event. The Opening and Welcome are from 8:30-8:40 a.m., followed by two workshop sessions from 8:45-noon. Lunch is from noon to 1 p.m., along with a Community Resource Square. Volunteers needed for Ayers Elem. Micro Forest Planting Day on Saturday, Sept. 28th The Mt. Diablo Unified School District, in partnership with the city of Concord, invites community members to join us for a Micro Forest Planting Day from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28 at Ayers Elementary, 5120 Myrtle Drive in Concord. Volunteer with us and plant more than 700 trees and shrubs! The Ayers Elementary School Micro Forest is made possible thanks to an IRA-funded, U.S. Forest Service (USFS), Urban and Community Forest grant. In 2024, the City of Concord received a $1 million grant to improve management, condition, and education of its Urban Forest. As part of this grant, the City of Concord committed to collaborating with local educators at MDUSD to create an educational and outreach opportunity to engage students on the value of trees in the community. The City and MDUSD are excited to bring this amazing opportunity to the community and look forward to seeing the forest grow and produce a compact, environmentally friendly, and sustainable green space on an otherwise unused area of Ayer’s campus. Sign up here or by scanning the QR code on the attached flyer to be part of our community beautification event. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring water bottles, gloves, sun hat and sunscreen. Rio Vista Elem.: Small Crew Work Party at Pacifica Garden Farm on Sunday, Sept. 29 Growing Healthy Kids invites community members to join in a volunteer day from 9 a.m. to noon Sunday, Sept. 29 at Pacifica Garden Farm at Rio Vista Elementary, Pacifica Avenue and Mariners Cove Drive in Bay Point (about a block down from the main school entrance). Service hours are available for MDUSD students. Projects Include: weeding, sheet mulching, and outdoor classroom table assembly. Bring water bottles, sun protection, and shoes that can get dirty. Optional tools include: Wrenches, Socket Wrenches, Gloves, and shovels. RSVP here . Fentanyl Awareness: Facts & Tools to Save a Life event on Tuesday, Oct. 1 at Foothill MS MDUSD will host a Free Fentanyl Awareness and Saving a Life Event at 6 p.m. Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at Foothill Middle School, 2775 Cedro Lane in Walnut Creek. We will 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. Each adult who registers will receive a free Naloxone Kit. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get the tools you can use to save a life. Use this link to register for this event. Nominations for Special Ed. "You Make A Difference" Awards accepted through Friday, October 4 The MDUSD Community Advisory Committee for Special Education is seeking nominations for “You Make A Difference Awards" for people or organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the lives of MDUSD students with disabilities. The awards will be presented at a ceremony the evening of Nov. 7. The theme is Everyday Superheroes. Nominations are due by Friday, Oct. 4. Click here to nominate or scan the QR code in the attached flyers. No School during Fall Recess the week of October 7-11 MDUSD schools will be closed the week of October 7-11 for our Fall Recess . However, District Offices will be open during this time. The complete 2024-25 Academic Calendar is here . MDUSD Anonymous Tip Reporting Reminder: See Something, Say Something In recognition of National See Something, Say Something Awareness Day earlier this week, MDUSD would like to remind families, staff and the community that we have partnered with the Sandy Hook Promise to provide an anonymous reporting system here: https://www.sandyhookpromise.org/say-something-tips/ . You can help save lives by reporting observed threats, behaviors, actions, and harassment. Here are examples of some of the most common behaviors and incidents to report: Acts of violence, with or without weapons; Verbal or physical abuse, assault or harassment; Sexual abuse, assault or harassment; Threats seen on social media; Bullying, fighting, harassment or intimidating behaviors; Bragging about weapons or a planned attack; Depression, anxiety or loss of self-control; Hopelessness, excessive guilt or worthlessness; Reckless behavior, theft and petty crimes; Social isolation or withdrawal; Substance or alcohol abuse; Suicide threats, cutting or other self-harm; or Any other troubling situation or behavior. School News Rossmoor Pickleball Club shares love of the game with students at El Dorado MS Rossmoor Pickleball Club volunteer Cynthia Davis works with EDMS students (above left), PE class plays Pickleball (above right), Pickleball Club volunteers (l-r) Linda Bower, Judi Heydon, Vicki Andersen, Mariann Siu, Patty Andrews, Danny Wong, Carol Cerioni, Eric Polk, Natalee Fairbanks, Scott Burrell, and Mary Ramos at EDMS (below left) and another volunteer works with students (below right). Since last school year, volunteers from the Rossmoor Pickleball Club have come to El Dorado Middle School in Concord to teach students the popular and fun game of pickleball. Every Thursday, approximately 10-14 members of the Club teach students during the school's 1st and 2nd period PE classes. Club President Carol Cerioni said the Club became involved simply because "we want to give back to underserved schools in the community." Cerioni noted that she is a friend of El Dorado MS Vice Principal Denise Carneiro, who told her that the Title I school would appreciate the Club’s support. The Club received a $350 grant from the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) that it used to purchase equipment, including nets and paddles. The Club also put out a call for volunteers, and more than 20 Club members responded. "We all love working with the kids," said Cerioni, who is a retired school psychologist. "Many of the volunteers are retired educators, so they know kids and they were really excited about this program." She credited lead volunteer Danny Wong, who is a retired principal, with spearheading the project. He writes lesson plans each week that the volunteers follow with the students. It's a nine-week program, so they work with 8th graders for 3 weeks, then 7th-graders for 3 weeks, and finally 6th-graders for 3 weeks. "We have a blast out there with the kids," Cerioni said. "We started the program last year and it was so much fun that we wanted to do it again this year. It’s been a really pleasant and rewarding experience for everyone involved." In fact, they are hoping to expand to another middle school within the district in the spring. “Part of what makes the experience so rewarding is the relationships we developed with the students,” Cerioni said. Wong chants with them before they start playing, shouting, "I say 'pickle,' you say, 'ball.' Let’s play Pickleball!" Although Cerioni initially thought the 8th-graders would think the chants were corny or silly, they do not, she said. "They're all taking part and enjoying themselves," she said. The volunteers first give verbal instructions, then demonstrate how to play, sharing their joy and camaraderie. "It’s a great way to reach kids and the beauty of pickleball is it doesn’t require a lot of money, so kids at any economic level can play," Cerioni said. "It’s pretty easy to learn. You find some pretty talented kids who have great hand-eye coordination, but the kids who don’t have great hand-eye coordination can play too and enjoy it just as much. We want to get the kids enjoying themselves and having fun, which in turn, makes school fun." Apparently, their plan is working. She said Vice Principal Carneiro has told her that students bring out the pickleball nets at recess to play. Another benefit, Cerioni said, is connections being made between older people and young people. "There are things we have in common," she said. "We still like to play and have fun and laugh and so do they, and that’s always a good thing! The students get to see that older people are still kids at heart, especially the pickle-ballers! It enriches our lives because we have something we love to do, it’s physical, it gets us out of the house and it's social. And that's true at any age!" Monte Gardens Elem. celebrates diverse community with International Food Fest Monte Gardens Elementary families enjoy an International Food Fest Potluck as they celebrate their diversity (above and below). Monte Gardens Elementary is on our journey to becoming an International Baccalaureate School, says Principal Bess Inzeo. "Our focus this year is to be internationally minded and inclusive," she said. "We celebrated our diverse school community by having families bring food from around the world to share with one another and to build community." She thanked the school's Parents Club and second grade teacher Cindy Aguilar for making this event happen. More information about the International Baccalaureate Program at Monte Gardens is here and in their presentation to the School Board here . Wren Avenue Elementary PTA Car Show is a success Congratulations to Wren Avenue Elementary PTA on a successful car show fundraiser held on Sept. 15th! It was a first-time event for the group, yet had a fantastic turnout of 24 awesome cars, trucks, and motorcycles. "Despite the cold morning and intense wind, we had a blast seeing the variety of cool cars and enjoyed the food, vendors, and raffle," said PTA President Yukiko Anonuevo, in a car show recap. The PTA raised funds through the showcase, vendors, t-shirt sales and donations. It hopes to grow the event next year. School Social Media Highlights Gregory Gardens & Sequoia Elem., Holbrook Language Academy and Rio Vista CARES MDUSD elementary school students and families are enjoying a variety of activities as September comes to and. Recent Social Media Highlights include: Pleasant Hill Community Service Day projects at Gregory Gardens Elementary and Sequoia Elementary , Holbrook Language Academy students celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month by making Papel Picado designs, and Rio Vista Elementary CARES program students having fun with Zumba. Highlights from Pine Hollow, Oak Grove, Sequoia and Diablo View middle schools MDUSD Middle School students are participating in a variety of academic and social activities. Recent Social Media highlights include: Pine Hollow MS leadership students get new t-shirts and make new plans for the school year, Oak Grove MS students recognize Suicide Prevention Month by writing positive affirmations, Sequoia MS students use homemade astrolabes to track the sun's angle above the Earth, and Diablo View MS students showed their spirit by dressing up for "Character Day." Highlights from College Park, Mt. Diablo, Concord and Ygnacio. Valley high schools MDUSD high school students are getting outdoors! Recent Social media highlights include: College Park HS student Jack Rattary breaks a school record, Mt. Diablo HS JROTC Raiders won 1st place at the Weston Ranch competition that involved a variety of athletic feats, the Concord HS football team beat Archie Williams 45-14 in its second win of the season, and Ygnacio Valley HS Education Academy students enjoyed Team-building Day activities including gunny sack races! Staff Social Media Highlights Olympic HS, and Shore Acres, Gregory Gardens and Walnut Acres elementary schools We love to see MDUSD staff members giving shout-outs to each other and the community as they work together! This week's Staff Social Media Highlights include: Olympic HS Principal Courtney Lyons and staff members enjoying sweater weather together; Shore Acres Elementary Counselor Marcie Torres reading "Fiesta" to TK students and thanking counselor Angela Ordaz for the great idea; Gregory Gardens Elementary custodian "Mr. Eugene" sending "thank you" to the community for a leaf blower and Preschool sweater, and getting this reply from Principal Katie Koontz: "Well deserved!!!!!! We love you Mr. Eugene!"; and Walnut Acres Elementary teacher Amanda Graves tweets a "thank you" to IT Tech Don Macauley "for your patience, and for walking me through my teach issue today!" Important Dates Sept. 28: MDUSD Parent Conference from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Loma Vista Adult Center; Ayers Elementary Micro Forest Planting Day from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Ayers Elementary (See District news above) Sept. 30: Measure J Citizens Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) special meeting at 5 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Oct. 1: Fentanyl Awareness and Saving a Life Event at 6 p.m. at Foothill Middle School (See District News above) Oct. 7-11: No School: Fall Recess (See District News above) Oct. 15: Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Oct. 16: District Governing Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions.
Friday, Sep 27 2024
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Friday Letter - September 20, 2024
SEPTEMBER 20, 2024 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 7 NO. 7 Dear MDUSD Community, Welcome to this week's Friday Letter! I’m excited to share the incredible updates and events that showcase the talent within our District. We celebrated Constitution Day at the Loma Vista Adult Education Center, bringing together students, staff, and community members in an exploration of our nation’s history. I’m also thrilled to highlight our 2024-25 MDUSD Teachers of the Year, Mia Carella and Ingrid Wright, who were honored at the Contra Costa County Office of Education ceremony. A huge congratulations to both of them! Our very own Joseph Alvarico delivered an inspiring speech reflecting on the incredible work of educators after being named a California Teacher of the Year last year. Our students continue to impress with their achievements. Northgate High School’s Mark Burenko, Sophia Mitchell, and Anthony Shen have been named National Merit Scholar Semifinalists —a prestigious honor that recognizes their academic excellence. This week, we also celebrate Olympic High School's successful resource fair and our dedicated MDUSD counselors and college and career advisors , who recently attended the CSU Counselor Conference. They now have the latest admissions updates to support our students as they pursue college and career aspirations. Finally, be sure to check out our social media highlights for an inside look at the great things happening in our district. Thank you for your continued support of the MDUSD community! Thank you Dr. Adam Clark Superintendent, Mt. Diablo Unified School District Spotlight Mt. Diablo Adult Education students celebrate Constitution Day with Assemblyman Tim Grayson Assemblyman Tim Grayson speaks to Mt. Diablo Adult Education students on "Constitution Day" Sept. 17 (above left). Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark and MDUSD Director of College & Career and Adult Education Vittoria Abbate recite the Pledge of Allegiance along with students (center). Assemblyman Grayson stands with Maria Nakhla and Maher Ghobrial (above right), who recently passed the U.S. Citizenship test after studying through the Adult School's Citizenship Preparation course. To help MDUSD Adult Education students understand the importance of the U.S. Constitution, administrators at the school invited Assemblyman Timothy Grayson (D-Concord) to speak on "Constitution Day," which is observed on Sept. 17th to recognize the day in 1787 that delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the document in Philadelphia. Grayson, who previously served as a Concord City Councilman, thanked the Adult Education students for taking advantage of the various programs at the school to further their education in career technical education, English as a Second Language, programs for adults with disabilities, and other courses. "When you come here, you go away better and more in tune with the community and you make the whole community better," he said. "Thank you all for helping yourselves and the entire community rise." The U.S. Constitution is one of the most studied, debated, and talked about "living documents" in the country today, with people who devote their lives to interpreting it and enforcing it in the court system, Grayson said. He compared it to the foundation of a house, calling it the "framework" for our country that holds it together and includes the Bill of Rights, which "we all hold very dear." The most important words, he said, are at the very beginning, in the Preamble : "We the people...." "We all have the same rights and we all should be treated in an equitable fashion," Grayson said, noting that each state also has a constitution, but the U.S. Constitution "preempts all." A few students asked questions after Grayson's remarks, including: "How long did it take to create the Constitution?" "What motivates you?" and "Why has the U.S. Constitution survived the test of time when those in other nations have failed?" Grayson said he believed the ideas for the Constitution began to be formed when people moved here from other countries where they didn't have the freedoms and liberties they deserved. He said he entered politics to improve the quality of life for those in our community. And Grayson said our Constitution has stood the test of time because we are all united and protected by it, no matter what language we speak, how much money we make, or how much education we have. This message resonated with the students, including many who are immigrants. MDUSD's Adult Education program offers a Citizenship Preparation Distance Learning Class to help immigrants study to become U.S. Citizens. Husband and wife Maher Ghobrial and and Maria Nakhla immigrated from Egypt, took the citizenship course, passed the test and have been sworn in as U.S. Citizens. Although they spoke Arabic and very little English when they arrived, they have been learning English and are on the waiting list to take English as a Second Language courses through Mt. Diablo Adult Education. They came to the U.S. seeking more opportunities for their two children, they said. Details about the Mt. Diablo Adult Education Citizenship Preparation and English as a Second Language courses are at: https://mdae.mdusd.org/programs/esl . Adult education program coordinator Karen Lingenfelter (l-r) stands with academic programs coordinator Robin Bielman, Assemblyman Tim Grayson, MDUSD Board Member Debra Mason, Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark, Adult Education VP Drew Foerder and Vittoria Abbate, Director of College & Career and Adult Education. District News MDUSD Teachers of the Year recognized at County Teacher of the Year celebration MDUSD is proud that three of our teachers were recognized during this year's Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year Celebration and that the Northgate HS Madrigals performed at the event. Joseph Alvarico , who was a 2023-24 District Teacher of the Year and went onto be named a County Teacher of the Year and State teacher of the Year, spoke about his experiences being interviewed for numerous news programs both in the U.S. and the Philippines, highlighting his work as an Ygnacio Valley HS engineering and robotics teacher. He congratulated the 22 2024-25 District Teachers throughout the County, who include 1st grade teacher Mia Carella at Walnut Acres Elementary and 4th-grade teacher Ingrid Wright at Bancroft Elementary. “Moments like this remind me of how far I’ve come, yet also how much more there is to learn,” Alvarico said. “Even at the peak of my career, I realize that continuous growth is vital to staying impactful. Meeting other Teachers of the Year has shown me how much more knowledge and innovation there is to embrace.” In pre-recorded videos, Carella and Wright spoke about what motivates them to teach everyday. For both of them, it is the relationships they build with their students. Carella said her favorite time of the year is in April, "when I can look around the classroom and know every students’ strengths, interests, challenges, dreams - and use those to bring learning to life in the classroom.” Wright said it’s very rewarding to to see students reach their academic goals. "If there’s no significant relationship, there will be no significant learning," she said. "I enjoy providing a developmentally appropriate learning environment in which all students are wiling to take risks and grow as learners." The Northgate HS Madrigals directed by teacher Georgia Friend performed “Modimo” a song of praise and celebration from South Africa. The group is a premiere mixed choir renowned for their a cappella performances, high level of musicianship and diverse repertoire, said program host Reyna Harvey. Congrats to all. MDUSD Career Pathways Fall Report highlights Work Based Learning programs The MDUSD Career Pathways program's Fall 2024 Newsletter highlights Work Based Learning programs throughout the District, including Dual Enrollment in partnership with Diablo Valley College, a relaunched Transportation program at Mt. Diablo HS, and a recap of the Summer Internship program. A career pathway is a structured sequence of courses that provides students with hands-on experiences related to a specific industry sector while reinforcing academic standards. Each pathway involves at least 250 hours of coursework and includes a "capstone" course, which offers real-world experience and guidance from industry partners. MDUSD collaborates with community partners to keep industry skills up-to-date and ensure meaningful learning experiences. The district offers pathways across eight sectors, including Art & Digital Media, Automotive Technology, Building Trades, Education, Engineering & Manufacturing, Health Care, Hospitality & Tourism, and Information Communication Technology. Details are in the attached newsletter. 4th Annual Battle of the Bands is Saturday, Sept, 21st at Concord HS The Concord High Instrumental Music Program is hosting its 4th Annual Battle of the Bands at Concord High School at 5 p.m. Saturday, September 21. This event will be jam-packed with live entertainment! It will include performances by Concord, Northgate and Ygnacio Valley high school bands from MDUSD, as well as from Clayton Valley, Antioch/Deer Valley, and De La Salle/Carondelet high schools. Tickets are $5 at the door. Guests who bring a can of food get $2 off their admission. Donations go to the Contra Costa/Solano Food Bank. Families and guests can order customizable t-shirts by GIC Graphic Wear and enjoy the following food trucks: Hella Mas, Dad’s BBQ, Black Oak Hot Dogs, CREAM, Ice Barbers and Squeezy D’s Lemonade! Please join us for an amazing night of music, friendship and fun! Monday is International Day of Sign Language; Sept. 23-29 is International Week of Deaf People MDUSD continues its recognition of Deaf Awareness Month next week, with special recognition of International Day of Sign Language on Monday, September 23rd and the International Week of Deaf People from September 23-29th. The MDUSD Board resolution says, in part: "The purpose of Deaf Awareness Month is to increase public awareness of the issues and the culture of people who are deaf, as well as to promote equal access to information and services for deaf individuals, to educate the public about the misconceptions of being deaf, and to learn about the types of educational programs, support services, and resources available to people who are deaf, deafblind, or hard of hearing...International Week of Deaf People, September 23-29, 2024 will focus on promoting positive aspects of deafness, encouraging social inclusion, and raising awareness of the organizations that support those who are deaf..." and the UN General Assembly has proclaimed September 23 as the International Day of Sign Languages to raise awareness of the importance of sign language in the full realization of the human rights of people who are deaf. MDUSD Parent Advisory Committee meeting is Tuesday MDUSD's Parent/Family Advisory Committee will hold its first meeting of the 2024-25 School Year at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24 at Willow Creek Center, 1026 Mohr Lane in Concord. The agenda includes: Introductions; the State of the District by Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark; Table Share Out including Highlights, Questions, and/or Concerns; Planning for 2024-25 by Identify Topics for the Year; and Announcements. The agenda is here . Board Briefs: Board meets Wednesday to receive IB report, hold textbook sufficiency hearing The MDUSD School Board will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25 in the District Office Boardroom to receive a report on International Baccalaureate programs in MDUSD, and approve updates to Board Policies. It will also consider a resolution verifying that each K-12 pupil has sufficient textbooks and instructional materials in the four curricular areas for the 2024-2025 school year and certify that the textbooks are aligned to state standards. The public is invited to comment on this issue during a Public Hearing before the Board makes its decision. The complete agenda is 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 . Training to help parents learn the Special Education IEP process to advocate for your child MDUSD is offering three Zoom training sessions to help parents of Special Education students become effective IEP team members. The training will help parents learn the IEP process and how you can become your child's strongest advocate. The training will be offered from 6:30-9 p.m. on Sept. 25, Oct. 2 and Oct. 16. September 25: IEP - A User’s Guide This session will provide an overview of the IEP process, from assessment to signing the IEP. October 2: IEP - Assessment, Goals and Services This session will focus on understanding how assessment information identifies goal areas, level of service and placement. October 16: IEP - Being an Effective IEP team member This session will review parental rights, procedural safeguards and how to have better communication with your IEP team. Register here or by scanning the QR code on the attached flyer. Free Parent Conference on Saturday, Sept. 28th will include workshops and community resources MDUSD's Adult Education program will host the District's annual free Parent Conference for families of students in grades TK through high school from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28 at the Loma Vista Adult Center, 1266 San Carlos Avenue in Concord. Details are in the attached flyers. The event will include workshops on topics including communication, learning styles, navigating the school system, positive behavior, academic success, early childhood education, emotional development, and more. It will allow parents to engage with educators, exchange ideas with other parents, and learn parenting skills. After the workshops, parents can connect with experts at a Community Resource Fair and find information about parenting, child development, education, health, and more! Childcare will be provided for children ages 3-10 (no diapers), and registered participants will receive a BBQ lunch. Registration will take place from 8-8:30 a.m. the morning of the event. The Opening and Welcome are from 8:30-8:40 a.m., followed by two workshop sessions from 8:45-noon. Lunch is from noon to 1 p.m., along with a Community Resource Square. Volunteers needed for Ayers Elementary Micro Forest Planting Day on Saturday, Sept. 28th The Mt. Diablo Unified School District, in partnership with the city of Concord, will host a Micro Forest Planting Day at Ayers Elementary from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28. We are seeking volunteers to help plant more than 700 trees and shrubs to create a micro forest on the school campus at 5120 Myrtle Drive in Concord. A micro forest is a small, densely planted area that enhances urban biodiversity and environmental health. Sign up here or by scanning the QR code on the attached flyer to be part of our community beautification event. Please wear sturdy shoes Bring water bottles, gloves, sun hat and sunscreen This project is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act and the USDA Forest Service Fentanyl Awareness: Facts & Tools to Save a Life event on Oct. 1 at Foothill MS in Walnut Creek MDUSD will host a Free Fentanyl Awareness and Saving a Life Event at 6 p.m. Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at Foothill Middle School, 2775 Cedro Lane in Walnut Creek. We will 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. Each adult who registers will receive a free Naloxone Kit. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get the tools you can use to save a life. Use this link to register for this event. Information about past fentanyl events is here . Experience Dyslexia Simulation is Thursday, October 3rd MDUSD's Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC) is offering a free "Experience Dyslexia Simulation" Workshop at 6 p.m. Wednesday, October 3 at Willow Creek Center, 1026 Mohr Lane in Concord. This workshop provides hands on experiences that allow participants to experience some of the challenges and frustrations that people with language based learning disabilities face daily. Six interactive stations will be available to experience and understand how dyslexia impacts decoding, comprehension, and writing. Additionally, there will be an overview of dyslexia and impacts on classroom. Register here or by scanning the QR code in the flyer. Nominations for Special Education "You Make A Difference" Awards accepted through October 4 The MDUSD Community Advisory Committee for Special Education is seeking nominations for “You Make A Difference Awards" for people or organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the lives of MDUSD students with disabilities. The awards will be presented at a ceremony the evening of Nov. 7. The theme is Everyday Superheroes . Nominations are due by Friday, Oct. 4. Those eligible include Parents, Students, Teaching Staff, Support Staff, and Community members or organizations. Click here to nominate or scan the QR code in the attached flyers. Student News Congrats to 3 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists at Northgate High School MDUSD is proud to announce that Northgate HS students Mark Burenko, Anthony Shen and Sophia Mitchell (above, l-r) have been named Semifinalists in the 70th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. They are among 100 high school seniors in Contra Costa County who have earned this recognition. "Congratulations to our outstanding National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists," said Contra Costa County Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey in a news release . "Achieving Semifinal status is no small feat. The dedication, determination, and perseverance of these students have led them to this remarkable milestone. I also want to also recognize the invaluable support of their families, teachers, and school communities in fostering their success. We wish these scholars the best as they represent our county and move forward in the competition for National Merit Scholarships." These exceptional seniors will now advance in the competition for approximately 6,870 National Merit Scholarships, collectively valued at $26 million, which will be awarded next spring. To qualify for a Merit Scholarship, Semifinalists must meet specific criteria to progress to the Finalist stage. It is anticipated that about 95% of Semifinalists will achieve Finalist standing, and around half of those Finalists will be selected as National Merit Scholars, earning this prestigious title. Over 1.3 million high school juniors across 21,000 schools entered the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®). Semifinalists represent less than one percent of U.S. seniors, marking the highest scorers in each state. National Merit Scholarship winners for 2025 will be announced between April and July. For more information on the National Merit Scholarship Program, visit www.nationalmerit.org . School News Olympic High School's Community Resource Fair was a success On Thursday night, Olympic High School hosted an incredible Community Resource Fair, drawing in families from across our community to connect with vital local organizations, said Principal Courtney Lyon. "We were thrilled to have partnered with Monument Crisis Center, La Clinica, CocoKids, and many others who shared valuable services. A special shoutout to Contra Costa Health for providing free school-required immunizations, helping nearly 25 families get their children the necessary school-required immunizations. Olympic staff had interactive and dynamic tables showcasing student work and had the opportunity to connect and partner with families. The event was a huge success, full of community spirit and collaboration. We can’t wait to make next year’s event even bigger and better! " School Social Media Highlights Highlights from Gregory Gardens, Rio Vista, Bel Air and Fair Oaks elementary schools As schools get ready for Fall starting next week, students are enjoying some new activities and surroundings, while also getting used to familiar routines. Recent Social Media highlights include; A new Farm Stand at Gregory Gardens Elementary, a new library at Rio Vista Elementary , engaging learning activities at Bel Air Elementary , and fun, collaborative learning at Fair Oaks Elementary Highlights from Valley View, Sequoia, Pine Hollow and Diablo View middle schools MDUSD middle school students also enjoying a variety of activities both inside and outside of classes. Recent Social Media highlights include: "Start with Hello" week at Valley View MS , 6th-graders at Sequoia MS exploring cells with microscopes, Pine Hollow MS students working collaboratively in math classes, and Diablo View MS Leadership students collecting 281 pairs of shoes for their GotSneakers fundraiser! Highlights from Concord, Olympic, College Park and Northgate high schools MDUSD high school students are showing spirit and pride in sports, academics and class activities. Recent social media highlights include: Concord HS students celebrating their football team's first win of the season, Olympic HS celebrating recent grads including Brian, College Park HS students celebrating "USA Night," and Northgate HS students enjoying their senior picnic! Staff News MDUSD high school counselors and college and career advisors attend CSU conference MDUSD School Counselors and College/Career Advisors from College Park, Concord, Mt. Diablo, and Northgate high schools attended the CSU Counselor Conference Sept. 18th in Rohnert Park to learn about updates in admissions for all 23 California State University campuses. Those who attended included (above, l-r): Meg Yagi (Concord HS), Magali Mercado Barajas (College Park HS), Morgan Gillette (College Park HS), Mitzi Chacon (College Park HS), Tamara Prosise (College Park HS), Leanne Owen (Norgate HS), Janine Santos (Northgate HS), Lauren Mercado (Northgate HS), Sheila Bergum (Concord HS), Khushnuma Driver (Northgate HS), Amanda Witzcak (College & Career Pathways), Diego Briones (Olympic HS), Mala Datta (Mt. Diablo HS), Isa Sapo (Olympic HS), Laura Siragusa (Concord HS), Jennifer Ramirez (College Park), Jorge Salinas-Tognetti (College & Career Pathway), Erika Ramos (Mt. Diablo HS), and Yaretzie Amaya (Mt. Diablo HS). "Our counselors and college career advisors attended the CSU High Counselor Conference to learn about the newest implementations and guidelines for the 2024 Fall application process," said Amaya. "This conference allows us to connect with CSU educators and bring back all the latest exciting information to our students who are thinking of pursuing a higher education." And the group got a special shout-out from CSU, which retweeted their photo, saying: "We love to see it! 👏 Who else is attending a CSU College Night " Thanks for representing MDUSD so well! Staff Social Media Highlights College Now, Northgate HS, Monte Gardens Elementary and Holbrook Language Academy MDUSD staff members have been having fun together and with students recently. Social Media highlights include: The College Now and District team attending the CA Dual Enrollment Conference together, Northgate HS math teacher Mark Tobin finding a drawing by his students on his Promethean Board picturing him atop a "bagel mountain," Monte Gardens Elementary Principal Bess Inzeo and teacher Jennifer Johnston celebrate "Start with Hello" week, and Holbrook Language Academy Counselor Angela Ordaz tweets: "At Holbrook we affirm, celebrate and honor our Latino/a heritage every day, this month we do so even more 👏🏼👏🏾👏🏿. Gracias teachers who welcomed me into their classrooms for Consejera story time with books written by Latino/a authors 📚. Que siga la Fiesta!" Important Dates Sept. 21: Battle of the Bands at 5 p.m. at Concord HS (See District News above) Sept. 24: District Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center Sept. 25: District Governing Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Sept. 28: MDUSD Parent Conference from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Loma Vista Adult Center; Ayers Elementary Micro Forest Planting Day from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Ayers Elementary (See District news above) Sept. 30: Measure J Citizens Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) special meeting at 5 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Oct. 1: Fentanyl Awareness and Saving a Life Event at 6 p.m. at Foothill Middle School (See District News above) The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions.
Saturday, Sep 21 2024
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Friday Letter - September 13, 2024
SEPTEMBER 13, 2024 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 7 NO. 6 Dear Mt. Diablo USD Community: What an exciting week it's been across MDUSD! At Wednesday’s Governing Board meeting, leaders from Olympic High School unveiled their brand-new Phoenix mascot —a symbol of resilience and rebirth that perfectly represents our students' perseverance. We also have news from Rio Vista Elementary, where the Granjita Pacifica Garden Farm was awarded a generous $10,000 grant from the Sprouts Foundation to grow their impactful program. At El Dorado Middle School , students were treated to a high-energy rally, setting the tone for an awesome year ahead! And let’s give a huge round of applause to the Ygnacio Valley High School football team, who just won their first game since 2019 —Wolfpack pride is back! Check out the social media posts of school and staff showing campus life from across MDUSD . Keep an eye out for a new tech feature on our amazing Technology Integration Leaders who are bringing cutting-edge tools into the classroom. Have a fantastic weekend, and thank you for all you do to make our District a place where all students can learn and grow! Thank you, Adam Clark Superintendent, Mt. Diablo Unified School District Spotlight Olympic Continuation HS gets a mascot - the Phoenix Phoenix mascot (above) with school name (below). The Olympic Continuation HS Phoenix mascot (left). Leadership/Social Studies teacher Scott Ananos stands with (l-r) Principal Courtney Lyons, Student Board Member and OHS student Crystal Ochoa, and OHS students Romeo Medina, Kezzibelle Morel, and Sylad Vasquez by a school mural that includes a phoenix (above right). Although Olympic Continuation High School opened in 1975, the school has never had a mascot to represent its spirit, culture and values. Last year, students and staff and the school began meeting to discuss a potential mascot and students voted on three recommendations submitted by students and staff: Pegasus, Unicorn and Phoenix. Several other ideas were also proposed by students, staff and community members during the feedback period, resulting in a final survey asking students to choose between the Pegasus, Phoenix, Lions, Torch and Owls. The Phoenix was the winner, attracting 40.5% of students' votes. Principal Courtney Lyons and Leadership teacher Scott Ananos presented a proposal to adopt the Phoenix as the school's official mascot to the School Board last Wednesday, where it was unanimously approved by the entire Board, including Student Board Member Crystal Ochoa, who attends Olympic HS. "We know that a school mascot represents more than a symbol," Lyons said. "It embodies the spirit, pride and unity of our school community." Previously, the Torch has unofficially been used as a school symbol, but the current campus community has not identified strongly with that, Lyons said. The Phoenix has been incorporated into a more recent mural on campus as a symbol of rebirth, along with butterflies and flowers. But the school wanted to get input from students and work with a professional logo designer to come up with an official mascot image, which will be used on future murals and signage, as well as a mascot costume for school events, Lyons said. The Board enthusiastically embraced the idea. Board Member Cherise Khaund said she appreciates the way the school works with students, staff and community members to get buy-in for its initiatives. "It's really beautiful and it really represents the kinds of things that you and your community have been talking about at your school," she said. Board President Erin McFerrin agreed, saying, "The symbolism is so beautiful and I'm really excited." Board Member Keisha Nzewi echoed their sentiments, adding that the symbolism of the Phoenix rising reminded her of Trustee Ochoa's journey to Olympic and she looked forward to seeing the mascot costume. Student Board Member Ochoa said she voted for the Phoenix herself during the school survey and she appreciated that the staff included all the students in the decision instead of implementing it themselves. She also had the honor of making the motion before the Board vote. "Olympic High School is dedicated to nurturing students who are empowered to reach their full potential, who demonstrate resilience and tenacity, and who possess the competence and confidence to make decisions that positively impact their communities," the Board-adopted resolution says. "The students and staff at Olympic High School have thoughtfully engaged in a mascot selection process, choosing the Phoenix as their symbol - a representation of hope, renewal and perseverance, perfectly reflecting our commitment to second chances and the transformative power of education." You can find out more about Olympic HS at the school's Open House and Resource Fair on Thursday (see below). District News Free Childhood Immunization Clinic and Resource Fair at Olympic HS on Thursday, Sept. 19th Olympic HS is hosting a Free Childhood Vaccine pop-up clinic in partnership with Contra Costa Health from 3-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19 at 2730 Salvio Street in Concord. Everyone is welcome regardless of immigration status or health insurance. Children 18 and under can receive school-required immunizations at NO COST. Free at-home COVID tests will also be available while supplies last. More information is here and in the attached flyers. Olympic HS is also turning its Back to School Night into a Resource Fair for the MDUSD community from 6-7 p.m. Thursday, including 14 community partners such as Contra Costa Health, La Clinica health center, Monument Crisis Center, Rainbow Community Center, Center for Human Development, Community Youth Center, NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), and more. The event provides a great opportunity for MDUSD families to access resources, enjoy free dinner, and learn more about the programs at Olympic HS. All MDUSD families are welcome! For more information, call 925-697-0363 or visit www.olympic.mdusd.org . Elementary Parent-Teacher conferences and Hispanic Heritage Month We would like to remind elementary school parents that Parent-Teacher conferences will be held Sept. 16-25, which means students will be released from schools early on those dates. Please plan accordingly. MDUSD is also recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15-Oct. 15. The Board's resolution is here . 4th Annual Battle of the Bands is Saturday, Sept, 21st at Concord HS The Concord High Instrumental Music Program is hosting its 4th Annual Battle of the Bands at Concord High School at 5 p.m. Saturday, September 21. This event will be jam-packed with live entertainment! It will include performances by Concord, Northgate and Ygnacio Valley high school bands from MDUSD, as well as from Clayton Valley, Antioch/Deer Valley, and De La Salle/Carondelet high schools. Tickets are $5 at the door. Guests who bring a can of food get $2 off their admission. Donations go to the Contra Costa/Solano Food Bank. Families and guests can order customizable t-shirts by GIC Graphic Wear and enjoy the following food trucks: Hella Mas, Dad’s BBQ, Black Oak Hot Dogs, CREAM, Ice Barbers and Squeezy D’s Lemonade! Please join us for an amazing night of music, friendship and fun! Board Briefs: Board met Wednesday to approve OHS mascot, approve financial report The MDUSD School Board met Sept. 11 to approve a Phoenix mascot for Olympic HS (see Spotlight above), ratify the appointment of Eric Stephens as the Technology User Support Manager, and approve Certification of the District's 2023-24 Unaudited Actuals Financial Report, among other items. The complete agenda is 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 . Public Hearing on Textbook Sufficiency at Sept. 25 Board Meeting On September 25th, 2024, the MDUSD School Board will consider a resolution verifying that each K-12 pupil has sufficient textbooks and instructional materials in the four curricular areas for the 2024-2025 school year and certify that the textbooks are aligned to state standards. The public is invited to comment on this issue during a Public Hearing before the Board makes its decision. The Public Hearing will take place during the MDUSD Board meeting, which begins at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25 in the MDUSD Dent Center at 1936 Carlotta Drive in Concord. The complete agenda will be posted here by 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20th. Free Parent Conference on Saturday, Sept. 28th will include workshops, and community resources MDUSD's Adult Education program will host the District's annual free Parent Conference for families of students in grades TK through high school from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28 at the Loma Vista Adult Center, 1266 San Carlos Avenue in Concord. Details are in the attached flyer. The event will include workshops on topics including communication, learning styles, navigating the school system, positive behavior, academic success, early childhood education, emotional development, and more. It will allow parents to engage with educators, exchange ideas with other parents, and learn parenting skills. After the workshops, parents can connect with experts at a Community Resource Fair and find information about parenting, child development, education, health, and more! Childcare will be provided for children ages 3-10 (no diapers), and registered participants will receive a BBQ lunch. Registration will take place from 8-8:30 a.m. the morning of the event. The Opening and Welcome are from 8:30-8:40 a.m., followed by two workshop sessions from 8:45-noon. Lunch is from noon to 1 p.m., along with a Community Resource Square. Volunteers needed for Ayers Elementary Micro Forest Planting Day The Mt. Diablo Unified School District, in partnership with the city of Concord, will host a Micro Forest Planting Day at Ayers Elementary from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28. We are seeking volunteers to help plant more than 700 trees and shrubs to create a micro forest on the school campus at 5120 Myrtle Drive in Concord. A micro forest is a small, densely planted area that enhances urban biodiversity and environmental health. Sign up here or by scanning QR code on the attached flyer to be part of our community beautification event. Please wear sturdy shoes Bring water bottles, gloves, sun hat and sunscreen This project is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act and the USDA Forest Service. Fentanyl Awareness: Facts & Tools to Save a Life event on Oct. 1 at Foothill MS in Walnut Creek MDUSD will host a Fentanyl Awareness and Saving a Life Event at 6 p.m. Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at Foothill Middle School, 2775 Cedro Lane in Walnut Creek. We will 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. Each adult who registers will receive a free Naloxone Kit. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to get the tools you can use to save a life. Use this link to register for this event. Information about past fentanyl events is here . School News Growing Healthy Kids awarded $10,000 to develop the Pacifica Granjita at Rio Vista Elementary Rio Vista Elementary Principal Janis Heden and Vice-Principal Julie Johnson accept a $10,000 check from Sprouts along with Growing Healthy Kids Founder Tamara Helfer and Executive Director Laney Cline King (above left) to develop the Pacifica Granjita (above right). MDUSD and Growing Healthy Kids are proud to announce that we have been awarded a $10,000 Sprouting School Gardens Grant from Sprouts Community Foundation . This generous support will help continue to build the 1-acre educational Garden Farm, called Granjita Pacifica ("Little Farm") at Rio Vista Elementary School in Bay Point. The award will be used for plants and labor to implement the next design phases of the project, including the Oak Grove understory plantings, Pomegranate Tunnel, Fig Tree Grove and Outdoor Classroom, and Compost Outdoor Classroom. El Dorado MS students show their Toro Spirit during "Welcome Back" rally Students at El Dorado MS in Concord showed their "Toro" spirit during a "Welcome Back" rally on Sept. 10th! All students participated in the event, which included some healthy competition including a Skittles Sorting Race (above left) and a Golf Ball on a Spoon relay (above right). And of course no rally would be complete without the Toro mascot cheering the students on (above center)! Ygnacio Valley HS Football Team wins first game since 2019, inspired by "Wolpack Pride" Last Friday, Sept. 6th, was a day filled with "Wolfpack Pride" at Ygnacio Valley HS in Concord! It began with Leadership students and staff including Principal Peter Crutchfield (above l-r), VP Carissa Weintraub and, Mr. Belga, Ms. Nassrallah, Mr. Navarro, Mr. Martinez, Mrs. Wagner, Mrs. Flanagan-Schmidt, Mrs. Roth and Mr. Hubble welcoming students, especially freshmen, to the "Wolf Pack" (center) and ended with the Wolves beating the visiting Redwood Christian team 26-20 (above right). The early morning spirit was also captured in a tweet video (above left) that includes the Jazz Band playing as the Leadership students cheer for their football team. The win caught the attention of the East Bay Times, which published a file photo of Quarterback Fred Fine (above right) with a story below the headline: "Losing streak broken! Ygnacio Valley beats Redwood Christian, snaps state’s longest active skid. Senior Fred Fine totaled 147 all-purpose yards and two touchdowns as YV breaks 35-game losing streak dating back to 2019." "For the first time in nearly five years, the Ygnacio Valley football team looked up at the scoreboard and saw they scored more points than their opponent at the end of the game," the story began. "The Wolves fended off Redwood Christian on Friday night, beating the Eagles 26-20 to capture their first win since 2019 and break a 35-game losing streak, the longest active winless run in the state. “A win would definitely mean more than I can explain,” Fine told the Bay Area News Group last month. “The feeling of getting my first victory with this team. I know it’s coming, and I can feel it.” He was right! Congrats and Go, Wolves! You can read the entire story here . School Social Media Highlights Gregory Gardens, Monte Gardens, El Monte and Mountain View elementary schools As we enter the second month of the school year, elementary schools are enjoying lots of activities to build community spirit! Social media highlights include: Gregory Gardens Elementary families at Bike Family Fest in Pleasant Hill; Monte Gardens Elementary students and staff celebrating their Mountain Lion Mascot; El Monte Elementary students shopping at the student store with "Monte Money" earned for being safe, respectful, responsible and an ally; and the Mountain View Elementary "lunch bunch" making new friends while playing games together. Highlights from Pine Hollow, Sequoia and Diablo View middle schools MDUSD middle school students have also been showing school spirit! Recent Social Media highlights include: Pine Hollow MS students dressed in western wear to show their #MustangPRIDE, Sequoia MS students coming together through common interests during Club Rush; and Diablo View MS students enjoying a Bobcats pep rally! Highlights from Olympic HS, College Now and Ygnacio Valley HS MDUSD high school students are also participating in a variety of fun activities as they spend time together inside and outside of classes. Recent social media highlights include: Olympic HS students treated to a Pancake and Fruit Bar to end their first term; College Now mentors getting to know other students with games and crafts; and a lively Ygnacio Valley HS reel featuring students and staff during jersey and spirit day! Staff Social Media Highlights Pine Hollow MS, and Meadow Homes, Strandwood and Monte Gardens elementary schools MDUSD staff members also love to show school spirit and camaraderie! Recent Social Media Highlights include: Pine Hollow MS staff members "twinning" for spirit day; Meadow Homes Elementary 2nd and 3rd grade teachers winning the gold for their diligent iReady test completion; Strandwood Elementary Principal Leif Utler gets an ice bath as part of fun run school fundraiser; and MDUSD's International Baccalaureate Coordinator Kellie Hoover and Monte Gardens Elementary Principal Bess Inzeo go on on IB Instructional rounds together. Technology Integration Leader Spotlights Mt. Diablo HS, Northgate HS, Horizons Center for Independent Study & Strandwood Elementary As a way to highlight the work of the District's Technology Integration Leaders, Education Technology Coordinator Erin Vallejo is creating TIL Team Spotlights, posting a few each month on Social Media. "Technology Integration Leaders (TILs) are teacher-leaders who support teachers and students across the District in the integration of technology to encourage interactive, collaborative, creative, and purposeful learning," Vallejo said. This month's spotlights include Mt. Diablo HS 's Alexander Econome, Deborah Rosa at the Horizons Center for Independent Study and Strandwood Elementary 's Gina Zeppegno answering the question: "If you could bring any historical figure to life through a hologram for a classroom discussion, who would it be and why?" and Northgate HS 's Leanne Debella-O'Neil answering the question: "What's one thing you wish your teachers knew about using technology in the classroom?" Community News Youth Empowerment Conference is September 21st in Pittsburg Contra Costa County District 5 Supervisor Federal Glover is hosting the free UpliftED 2024 Youth Empowerment Conference from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21 in the Los Medanos College Student Union at 2700 E. Leland Road in Pittsburg for students in grades 6-12. It is a transformative, day-long event dedicated to empowering youth and shaping the leaders of tomorrow, offering an experience designed to equip young people with the tools, resources, and inspiration they need to succeed Important Dates Sept. 16: Mt. Diablo Business Education Alliance (MDBEA) meeting at 4 p.m. at Mt. Diablo HS Sept. 17: Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom and on Zoom to view. Sept. 19: District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center; Olympic HS childhood vaccine event from 3-7 p.m. and Community Resource Fair 6-7 p.m. Sept. 21: Battle of the Bands at 5 p.m. at Concord HS (See District News above) Sept. 24: District Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center Sept. 25: District Governing Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions
Saturday, Sep 14 2024
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Friday Letter - September 6, 2024
SEPTEMBER 6, 2024 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 7 NO. 5 Dear Mt. Diablo Unified School District Community, Welcome to this week’s Friday Letter! We’re excited to spotlight a new video featured in EdTech Magazine showcasing MDUSD’s recent technology upgrades. These include Chromebooks for every student and Promethean panels in every classroom, ensuring all students have equal access to learning resources. This is just the first of three videos highlighting ongoing tech improvements across the District, including network upgrades at Silverwood Elementary, which will soon be replicated districtwide. We’re also proud to celebrate Mt. Diablo High School’s volleyball and basketball star, Loraine Aicel Sotto, who was recently featured in the Pioneer Athlete Spotlight. Her dedication to both academics and athletics sets a shining example for all students. Additionally, we’ll be cheering on MDHS football standouts Jakorey Robinson and Jeremiah Owens , named by the Bay Area News Group as players to watch this season, as well as Northgate HS Flag Football player Symone Jewell , named a "dual threat." Mt. Diablo High is eagerly anticipating Friday’s rematch against Acalanes High after last year’s NCS Division IV playoffs. And Ygnacio Valley High School's Project 212 Robotics Team has some exciting activities coming up! Finally, check out our School and Staff social media highlights , showcasing the exciting new activities of students and staff. From classrooms to playgrounds, the energy and enthusiasm across our campuses continue to support a strong sense of community, where everyone feels welcomed. Thank you, Adam Clark Superintendent, Mt. Diablo Unified School District Spotlight MDUSD's technology upgrades featured in EdTech Magazine video focused on equity Silverwood Elementary student Subhan talks about Promethean boards in his classroom (above). Silverwood Elementary teacher Roxayn King is shown using a Promethean Board in her 4th grade classroom in a new EdTech magazine video highlighting technology in MDUSD (right). MDUSD's use of technology throughout the District - including Promethean boards in all classrooms and Chromebooks for all students - has attracted the attention of EdTech magazine, which recently featured a video highlighting the way we are focusing on equity to ensure there is not a disparity between the "haves and the have-nots." The District's "digital equity initiative focused on making sure that every student and teacher had exactly what they needed to teach and learn effectively," said Robert Sidford, MDUSD's Director of Technology and Innovation, during an interview in the first of three planned videos looking at MDUSD's technology improvements districtwide and at Silverwood Elementary. The upgrades have been funded largely through Measure J, approved by voters in 2018. "We are teaching in a 21st Century classroom," said Silverwood Elementary teacher Roxayn King, who asks her 4th grade students to use their Chromebooks to work on a research project, while she guides them using a Promethean board in the video. "One of the best things that our District did was when they rolled out the Promethean boards." Student Subhan said the Promethean board is much easier to see than the white board and projector his previous teachers used. And Silverwood Principal Bruce Burns said the interactive Promethean boards have "had a significant impact in engagement," captivating students and providing visual stimulation, while also allowing them to manipulate shapes, write, draw and color on them in front of the class, then get immediate feedback. The video also shows MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark speaking with Concord HS students about their plans after graduation. "Our goal here in Mt. Diablo is to prepare each and every student for college and career," Dr. Clark said in an interview. "In our world, technology is everywhere." The District provides students with the technological tools they need to access the curriculum, and strives to expose them to what technology could become, as well as what's available to them, he said. Sidford said that standardizing technology districtwide saves money because it is managed centrally and no longer requires the District to replace individual equipment that varies from one classroom to another. He noted that the District partnered with CDW an information technology corporation, to implement its technology plan. The Board expects to approve the final phase of the Promethean Board project on Wednesday. More information about MDUSD'S work with CDW is here . District News Board Briefs: Board meets Wednesday to approve Olympic HS mascot, approve financial report The MDUSD School Board will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11 in the District Office Boardroom to review and potentially approve a Phoenix mascot for Olympic HS, the appointment of a Technology User Support Manager, and Certification of the District's 2023-24 Unaudited Actuals Financial Report, among other items. The complete agenda is 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 . Elementary Parent-Teacher conferences and Hispanic Heritage Month We would like to remind elementary school parents that Parent-Teacher conferences will be held Sept. 16-25, which means students will be released from schools early on those dates. Please plan accordingly. MDUSD is also recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15-Oct. 15. The Board's resolution is here. M DUSD's Adult Education Lifelong Learning program offers new classes starting week of Sept. 16 MDUSD's Adult Lifelong Education program has plenty to offer in September, including art, cooking, crafts, dance, finance, fitness, home improvement, foreign language, music, personal enrichment, technology, and woodworking! Details are in the program's September newsletter here . More information about Mt. Diablo Adult Education is on the MDAE website here . 4th Annual Battle of the Bands is Saturday, Sept, 21st at Concord HS The Concord High Instrumental Music Program will present its 4th Annual Battle of the Bands at Concord High School on Saturday, September 21 at 5 p.m. This event will be jam-packed with live entertainment! It will include performances by Concord, Northgate and Ygnacio Valley high school bands from MDUSD, as well as from Clayton Valley, Antioch/Deer Valley, and De La Salle/Carondelet high schools. Tickets are $5 at the door. Guests who bring a can of food get $2 off their admission. Donations go to the Contra Costa/Solano Food Bank. There will also be a cash only 50/50 Raffle, customizable t-shirts by GIC Graphic Wear and the following food trucks: Hella Mas, Dad’s BBQ, Black Oak Hot Dogs, CREAM, Ice Barbers and Squeezy D’s Lemonade! Please join us for an amazing night of music, friendship and fun! Free Parent Conference on Saturday, Sept. 28th will include workshops, and community resources MDUSD's Adult Education program will host the District's annual free Parent Conference for families of students in grades TK through high school from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28 at the Loma Vista Adult Center, 1266 San Carlos Avenue in Concord. Details are in the attached flyer. The event will include workshops on topics including communication, learning styles, navigating the school system, positive behavior, academic success, early childhood education, emotional development, and more. It will allow parents to engage with educators, exchange ideas with other parents, and learn parenting skills. After the workshops, parents can connect with experts at a Community Resource Fair and find information about parenting, child development, education, health, and more! Childcare will be provided for children ages 3-10 (no diapers), and registered participants will receive a BBQ lunch. Registration will take place from 8-8:30 a.m. the morning of the event. The Opening and Welcome are from 8:30-8:40 a.m., followed by two workshop sessions from 8:45-noon. Lunch is from noon to 1 p.m., along with a Community Resource Square. Student News Mt. Diablo HS volleyball and basketball player Loraine Aicel Sotto Athlete Spotlight Congrats to Mt. Diablo HS volleyball and basketball player Loraine Aicel Sotto , who was recently featured in a Pioneer Athlete Spotlight for her "unwavering commitment to both her academics (3.5 GPA) and athletic career." Now a senior, Loraine has played volleyball since she was a freshman and basketball since she was a sophomore. "She's an outside hitter for the Red Devil volleyball team and a shooting guard who averages 40% from the three-point line for the basketball squad," the Pioneer wrote. "This fall she’s leading her volleyball team in kills while basketball coach Ronnie McGee says her basketball IQ will definitely benefit the team during her senior season this winter." Mt. Diablo HS Football players and team in the news As football season gets underway, we are pleased to share that Mt. Diablo HS football players Jakorey Robinson (above left) and Jeremiah Owens (above center), were both named by the Bay Area News Group as players to watch this fall! Jakorey, a 6-3, 216-pound senior, was named an Athlete to watch, with this recap: "Named first-team all-DAL Valley on offense and second-team on defense. Will be asked to carry the offense as both a rusher and passer with the graduation of record-breaking running back Herschel Turner Jr." Jeremiah, a 5-7, 175-pound senior, was named a linebacker to watch, with this recap: "Earned all-league honors last season. Had 59 tackles, seven for loss, and 2.5 sacks." The team was also featured in a Pioneer article this week as it faces rival Acalanes HS tonight (Friday) in an away game. Red Devils Coach Fetuao Mua (above right) sought a rematch with Acalanes after the Lafayette team stopped MDHS from advancing in the opening round of the NCS Division IV playoffs last year. Both Acalanes and MDHS won their season openers last week. "We're excited," Mua said. Northgate HS Flag Football player Symone Jewell named a "dual threat" by Bay Area News Group In the second season of Girls Flag Football as a sanctioned sport in California, Northgate HS player Symone Jewell is already turning heads and was named a "dual threat" who can make plays with her arm and on the ground by Bay Area News Group. You can see the Northgate HS quarterback in action in this Instagram post (far left), where she cuts through the opposition easily as she runs the ball. The article neglected to also name Symone as a "two-sport athlete," who earned accolades last year as an NCS wrestling champion (left)! Go, Broncos! Ygnacio Valley HS Robotics Team participates in Tinkers & Thinkers Faire, documentary screening After attracting a lot of media attention last year when Ygncacio Valley HS engineering teacher Joseph Alvarico was named a California Teacher of the Year for his work mentoring students, the Project 212 Robotics club that Alvarico advises is getting off to an active start this year. Robotics students plan to participate in the annual Tinkers and Thinkers Innovation Faire from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 14 at the Pleasant Hill Park and Senior Center along with Falcon X College Park HS Robotics team members, showcasing the incredible robots they built from scratch (photos from last year above left and center). The event includes hands-on activities for kids of all ages and club members are eager to help spark creativity and curiosity in younger kids! Then on Thursday, Sept. 19, a documentary called "Project 212: Engineering the Future," about the YVHS Robotics Team (above right) will be screened during The 22nd Oakland International Film Festival , which starts at 5:30 p.m. As the second of five films to be screened that evening, it is described with this intro: "Life isn’t fair, and that’s especially true in the world of high school robotics competitions. Project 212, a robotics team from Ygnacio Valley High School, faces more challenges than most. Experience is short and resources are limited. Project 212 believes in itself though. But is grit, devoted mentors, and an unwavering focus on teamwork enough to compete against the best teams in the world?" "This inspiring documentary chronicles our team’s journey as we overcome obstacles and rise to the challenge," say team members, who will attend the screening at the historic Grand Lake Theater. "Don’t miss this chance to witness an unforgettable story of perseverance, teamwork, and determination!" Tickets cost $15 each. Click here to purchase a ticket. To help raise money for its robotics competitions, the team is also participating in a "Kendra Scott Giveback event with Project 212" on Saturday, September 7th, from 2-4 p.m. at 91 Broadway Lane in Walnut Creek, with 20% of all proceeds to be donated to the team. Details are here . School Social Media Highlights Meadow Homes, Gregory Gardens, Shore Acres and Woodside elementary schools After finishing up the first month of 2024-25, elementary schools are keeping students and families engaged and informed in a variety of ways. Recent Social Media highlights include: Meadow Homes Elementary stressed the importance of getting to school on time everyday so students don't miss out on important morning routines, with the attendance awareness hashtag #bepresentbepowerful Gregory Gardens Elementary Principal Katie Koontz tweeted: "Nothing is as magical as being back in the garden with friends💜🐊🐝students got to taste fresh local honeydew melon from local farm @HHI360 and notice what has been growing over the summer. Ms. Clausen even spotted a praying mantis!" Shore Acres Elementary counselor Marcie Torres tweeted: "Celebrated our first month at school with a spirit week! Check out these Super Sharks! 🦈" And Woodside Elementary Principal Christopher Chenault posted a video thanking the PFC for the school's new marquee, tweeting the message: "Woodside PFC Rocks!" Highlights from Pine Hollow, Sequoia, Diablo View and El Dorado middle schools MDUSD middle schools are also continuing to welcome students and families back to campuses. Recent Social Media highlights include: Pine Hollow MS introduces the school's Mustang Madness Mascot Max, who provides "a great way to celebrate our #PHMSMustangsPRIDE! " Sequoia MS Principal Corbin chats with PE students about the school's expectations and how to get extra support. "We're all about keeping Sequoia a fun and positive place to learn!" tweeted VP Carolyn Hull, with the hashtag #SequoiaStrong. Diablo View MS Labor Day Weekend Spirit Day photos of students wearing red, white and blue. And El Dorado MS tweeted photos from its Back to School Night! Highlights from Concord, College Park, Mt. Diablo and Olympic high schools Students and families at MDUSD high schools are building community spirit through campus activities. Recent Social Media highlights include: Concord HS Athletics tweeted that the football team "came up short, but not due to lack of effort or energy. @concord_high families, friends & students brought the noise all night, including a surprise guest appearance from Grizz the mascot!" College Park HS Girls Flag Football posted the victorious message: "Both JV & Varsity protectThe Nest!!! Congrats Falcons!!! Keep working hard!" Mt. Diablo HS tweeted a montage of Back to School Night photos, with this message added by English Language Learner Program Administrator Suleyma Moss: "So great to see families come out for our school events! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 #mdhsfamilia" And Olympic HS tweeted photos of students writing positive messages in chalk on the campus, with this explanation: "What better way to start the week than with positive affirmations after learning about growth mindset?! These positive affirmations were great reminders before the last week of the term. Even @ConcordPD_CA‘s Officer Cherry got in on the action with students! 🩶🩵🖤" Staff Social Media Highlights Holbrook Language Academy, Meadow Homes & Monte Gardens elementary, Oak Grove MS MDUSD staff members are building connections with each other, as well as with students and families. Recent Social Media highlights include: Holbrook Language Academy tweeted a photo of Principal Silvia Orellana enjoying a visit from Multilingual Learners Department Assistant Director Chitra Bhardwaj, saying it was "amazing," with "lots of student ownership of learning, academic language and Dual Language practices highlighted #WeAreHolbrook #SomosHolbrook #HOLAproud." Meadow Homes Elementary teachers Jesus Jimenez Almaras and Hailey Salome were awarded Olympics-style medals (along with teacher Gabriel Telles-not pictured) for sending out the most ParentSquare Direct Messages to communicate with families. Oak Grove MS Counselor Mrs. Harris tweeted this Back to School invitation to families: "Come meet your counselors, Ms. Mendez & me, and social worker, Ms. Puma!" And Monte Gardens Elementary thanked the Food and Nutrition Department for "making the magic happen" during "Pancake and PJ Day," including a photo of Cafeteria Lead Dannette Ruger wearing a pancake hat to add to the festivities! Important Dates Sept. 11: District Governing Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Sept. 12: African American Parent Advisory Committee (AAPAC) meeting at 6 p.m. in the Black Family Resource Room at 236 Pacifica Ave., Bay Point Sept. 16: Mt. Diablo Business Education Alliance (MDBEA) meeting at 4 p.m. at Mt. Diablo HS Sept. 17: Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom and on Zoom to view. Sept. 19: District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC) meeting at 5:30 p.m. at Willow Creek Center The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions.
Saturday, Sep 07 2024
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Friday Letter - August 30, 2024
AUGUST 30, 2024 FRIDAY LETTER VOLUME 7 NO. 4 Happy Friday, MDUSD Community! We’ve had another incredible week across our District, and I’m thrilled to share some exciting updates and spotlights with you! First, let's cheer for Mt. Diablo High School’s very own Heather Hollis, who has been named the CA Varsity Cheer Coach of the Year by Nfinity ! Heather, who is a proud MDHS graduate from the Class of 2007 and former cheerleader herself, has been making a positive impact on her students, and this recognition is well-deserved. We are so proud of her dedication to our students and community. In addition, we’re shining a light on the important Gun and Campus Safety event held at Northgate High School, as well as our September recognitions for Attendance Awareness, Deaf Awareness, and Suicide Prevention Awareness. And don’t forget— Hispanic Heritage Month kicks off on September 15th and runs through October 15th . Also, a huge shoutout to everyone who joined us for the 3rd Annual Black Family Night Extravaganza ! Dr. Francies and Dr. Fitzpatrick emphasized the importance of attendance, reminding us all that being on time and present every day is key to unlocking the full potential of our students. And if you’re looking for a great spot to grab a coffee or snack, make sure to stop by the Bridge Program’s Friends Cafe , now open for business. It’s a wonderful initiative that supports our students while serving up some delicious treats. Finally, take a look at our School and Staff social media highlights ! Clearly students and staff are enjoying all that MDUSD has to offer. Here’s to another week of celebrating our fantastic MDUSD students and those who support them! Thank you, Dr. Adam Clark Superintendent, Mt. Diablo Unified School District Spotlight Mt. Diablo HS Cheer Coach Heather Hollis named CA Varsity Cheer Coach of the Year by Nfinity Mt. Diablo HS Cheer Coach Heather Hollis, above right, smiles as she works with her Cheer Team on Aug. 26, as they prepare for the first football game on Friday. Mt. Diablo HS Cheer Team Coach Heather Hollis (back, l-r) stands with team members Audrey Dunn-Leal, Emily Hernandez, Brisa Torres , Denise Romero, Perla Cordova and (front l-r) Team Captain Damariz Ramirez, Nyomi Cedeno, Allison Parada, Nevaeh Buckmaster and Asia O’Neal (above left). The team's other Captain, Zafirah Laguide (above right) attends the College Now program at DVC, then practices with the team after school. MDUSD sends a big cheer of congratulations to Mt. Diablo HS Cheer Team Coach Heather Hollis, who has been named the California Varsity Cheer Coach of the Year by cheer athletic apparel company Nfinity, which based the award on an anonymous nomination in its annual nationwide contest and a followup interview with Hollis. "These leaders have inspired, motivated, and elevated their teams to greatness, and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate their incredible achievements," Nfinity said, when it announced winners including Hollis and others from around the country earlier this month. "Your passion, dedication, and impact on the cheerleading world are truly unmatched. We are so proud of each of you for the hard work and heart you bring to the sport!" The company would not reveal who nominated Hollis or what the nomination said. But Nfinity Sales Director Erin Connors, who interviewed Hollis based on the nomination, said Hollis was a great fit for the award. "For the longest time, coaches were like the unsung heroes," Connors said. "We were looking for somebody that's made an impact, not just won a competition. It has nothing to do with competitions. It has to do with making changes, helping kids, and being a good influence." Hollis' cheer team members and volunteer Assistant Coach Kelly Bartlett, who is also the school's Head Softball Coach, said Hollis definitely deserves the award for her tireless work to elevate the team's status at the school since she arrived last year, while nurturing team members like a second Mom. She teaches team members life lessons - such as the importance of doing their homework, setting goals and giving back to the community - while also restructuring the way they practice by starting with the basics to avoid injuries, then working to build on a strong foundation. "She's very understanding," said Damariz Ramirez, a senior who is one of two Captains of the team. "She's done a lot for us." Before Hollis arrived, the team had no designated room on campus to practice in. Now, they practice in a room in the Girls Gym and feel more included in schoolwide activities, Damariz said, adding, "I'm so thankful for her." Senior Denise Romero, who has been on the team since she was a freshman, said Hollis is warm and approachable. "You can talk to her when you need help with something and she will listen to you and she gives us feedback even if it's outside of class or in cheer. She's very caring." Nyomi Cedeno, who joined the team as a senior in June, said Hollis was very welcoming and easy to talk to. The girls also said Hollis stresses community service, such as working on school supply donation drives and volunteering at KidFest . In addition, Hollis helps them look at potential colleges, said Damariz, who wants to study fashion design at an out-of-state college. Denise wants to study business focusing on the retail industry and Nyomi wants to study business, cosmetology and real estate. As a 2007 MDHS grad and former cheerleader herself, Hollis said she wants her team members to feel empowered to complete college or an apprenticeship program. "I don't want them to think: 'I can't because I came from here' or 'I can't afford it,'" Hollis said, noting that the 11 team members live in Bay Point or Concord and many can't afford expensive gear. They fundraise to buy uniforms and pay for bus transportation. And sometimes, Hollis pays out of her own pocket for extras like makeup and bows. "I don't mind," she said, "because I want to grow the program. I lived in a homeless shelter when I went here and my captain paid for everything. I tell the girls, 'We always give more than we take, which can also mean a smile or a compliment." Hollis also tells the girls, "You can make an impact on someone." She stresses working as a team, developing leadership skills, and having a positive attitude. "I treat them the way I would want someone to treat my own daughter," Hollis said. "I'm really big on them being advocates for themselves." Hollis was especially proud of the team's enthusiasm and hard work when they attended a three-day Cheer Camp at St. Mary's College of Moraga last month and earned several awards and recognitions, including "most improved" out of 22 teams, which she called "the highlight." Because it was too expensive to stay overnight at the camp, team members' parents dropped them off every morning at 6 a.m. and picked them up at 9 p.m., Hollis said. Bartlett, who has assisted Hollis since last year, was on the MDHS cheer team with Hollis, graduated with her and remains one of her best friends. "She does everything from her heart," Bartlett said. "She just pours her all into the program and the girls." They both have a "big vision for the program" that includes a cheer team, flag team and dance team, Bartlett said. When the flag team coach left this year, Hollis and Bartlett took on the 14-member team in addition to cheer, even though they are still learning about flag themselves. A dance team has yet to be formed, but Hollis and Bartlett said they want the school to have the same types of spirit squads it had when they were MDHS students. Bartlett said she's happy that Hollis has earned the Coach of the Year award, which brings a lot of attention to Hollis, Mt. Diablo HS, and their cheer program. The team already knows 21 cheers and four chants, and plans to work on stunts as they develop their skills, with six new members this year. Planning is underway for Its first fundraiser in September, with details to follow on Instagram . Anyone wishing to donate to the program can send a check to the school in care of the cheer team or contact Hollis at hhollis8831@gmail.com. Click on the Instagram posts and reel below to see the team's Summer Camp experience , stunt routine last year , and practice for this week's Friday Night Football game at 7 p.m. at Deer Valley HS in Antioch. MDHS Cheer Team wins Camp Spirit Stick (above) and enjoys overall great Camp learning experience (below). MDHS 2023-24 Cheer Team stunt routine (above) and 2024-25 Coach Hollis recognition reel (right). District News Gun and Campus Safety event at Northgate HS includes Walnut Creek and MDUSD information Panel members (l-r) Walnut Creek Mayor Loella Haskew, Walnut Creek Police Chief Jamie Knox, Northgate HS Social Work Specialist Merritt Rollins, Northgate HS Principal Kelly Cooper and MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark speak about gun and campus safety at Northgate HS on Aug. 27. To help MDUSD parents and caregivers understand how they and the District can work together with local police departments to keep students safe, a small group of parents is organizing Gun and Campus Safety events in communities including Walnut Creek, Concord and Pleasant Hill. The first event was held Tuesday at Northgate HS in partnership with the city of Walnut Creek. Mayor Loella Haskew and Police Chief Jamie Knox stressed the importance of safe gun storage in homes to prevent accidental shootings. Knox and MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark also explained how the police department and school district train staff to respond to potential shootings or other school emergencies. And Dr. Clark reminded parents of the " Say Something " anonymous reporting system implemented in the District, which allows people to alert authorities about potential threats. Northgate HS Social Work Specialist Merritt Rollins discussed the school's Wellness Center , which provides a safe space where students can relax from stress, play games, pet her dog, and discuss anxieties or other issues with Rollins or a Social Work intern. "We offer crisis support and intervention," Rollins said, noting that she and others in the school and District can refer students to outside agencies for support or mental health treatment, if necessary. "I want everyone to feel like there's someone who wants to listen to them and hear what they have to say. And I do." Northgate HS Principal Kelly Cooper said Northgate HS has implemented "phone spas" on campus, meaning students are required to turn their phones off and place them in a designated "spa" location in each classroom so they will not be distracted during class. Some teachers allow students to charge their phones in the "spa." She said the school piloted the spas last year and teachers reported student engagement increased as a result. Like Rollins, Cooper said all staff at the school focus on making strong connections with students, "making sure they feel welcome, included and heard," to ensure that every student has a trusted adult on campus they can talk to. She said the " Link Crew " connects freshmen with juniors and seniors to help build a sense of community. And she has her own anonymous reporting system that goes straight to her, which students have already used this year to report concerns. The panel also answered several questions from the audience about training, suspensions and expulsions, campus safety plans and other issues. Dr. Clark also discussed the Yondr cell phone pouches being used at Olympic HS, Prospect HS, Mt. Diablo HS and Ygnacio Valley HS, saying they are not required districtwide yet, but a policy could be considered next year at more schools if they are interested. He said students were hesitant at first, but many say the pouch - in which cell phones are locked during the school day - is effective in keeping them focused on school instead of on cell phone distractions and they like it. Please see the attached flyer for Campus Safety Resources distributed after the event. Board Briefs: Board met Wednesday to receive reports, vote on developer fees The MDUSD School Board met Wednesday to receive annual reports from the 2018 Measure J Citizens Bond Oversight Committee and the 2010 Measure C Citizens Bond Oversight Committee, approve a Developer Fee Justification Study Report and adopt a resolution increasing developer fees, and approve a Revised 2024-27 Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP), among other items. The Board also approved several resolutions for the month of September (see below). The complete agenda is 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 . During her Board report, Board President Erin McFerrin announced that she is not seeking re-election in November so that she can spend more time with her family, including a baby expected next summer. Board Member Keisha Nzewi previously announced that she is running for re-election unopposed. Candidates Thomas McDougall and May Jabeen Patel have qualified to be placed on the November ballot in the Area 5 election to replace McFerrin. During its Aug. 28 meeting, the MDUSD Board approved the following resolutions for the month of September: Attendance Awareness Month Deaf Awareness Month , including International Week of Deaf People Sept. 23-29 and International Day of Sign Language on Sept. 23 Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 15-Oct. 15 (see below) 3rd Annual Black Family Night Extravaganza informs parents about District student supports Dr. Lamont Francies discusses African American Parent Advisory Committees (above left), Dr. Diane Fitzpatrick explains the Focal Scholar Plan (above center) and Board Member Keisha Nzewi talks about her experiences as a District parent (above right). Members of the Black Educators Association pose for a photo (below). At MDUSD's 3rd Annual Black Family Night Extravaganza on Thursday at Ygnacio Valley HS, District administrators and Board Member Keisha Nzewi discussed supports for African American students and families, and stressed the importance of getting involved in schools. Ygnacio Valley HS Principal Peter Crutchfield welcomed families to his campus. "Hosting this event is an honor as we come together to strengthen the bonds that define us," he said. "Your presence is a very powerful reminder that when we stand together, we can achieve great things." Dr. Lamont Francies, Community & Family Engagement Coordinator for African American Student Achievement, said the District is changing the structure of the African American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) by encouraging parents to establish school-based committees, then meeting once a month with the representatives of those committees in a District AAPAC. So far, parents at Bel Air, Meadow Homes and Wren Avenue elementary schools have pledged to create their own AAPACs, as well as parents at Riverview MS and Olympic HS. Dr. Diane Fitzpatrick, Program Specialist for MDUSD's Focal Scholar Plan, explained that the District has identified "Focal Scholars" for targeted support, who are concentrated at seven schools: Bel Air, Delta View, Fair Oaks and Rio Vista elementary schools; Riverview MS; and Mt. Diablo and Ygnacio Valley high schools. According to the District's criteria, a minimum of 50% of focal scholars are African American, and all focal scholars have at least one area of academic, disciplinary or attendance need. Focal scholars also include Foster Youth, Homeless Youth and Multilingual students. Those who were identified last year will be carried over in this year's plan, she said. Dr. Fitzpatrick urged parents to take advantages of intervention supports available to Focal Scholars including a reading program, math program, tutoring, and mental health support. Board Member Keisha Nzewi said she is running for re-election to her second term unopposed, after finishing up her first term as the District's first Black trustee. She shared her experiences as the parent of a high school junior, who moved into the District when her daughter was in 5th grade. "When they're at school, our children need the freedom to be their full and authentic selves," Nzewi said. The event also highlighted the District's Black Educators Association and included outside community resources such as Delta Bay IMPACT, P.O.W.E.R. Consulting, Family Purpose, and the Miles Hall Foundation. More information about the District's African American Student Achievement Department is here . Please see the attached handout for details about the AAPAC. Labor Day Holiday, Elementary Parent-Teacher conferences and Hispanic Heritage Month Schools and District Offices will be closed Monday, Sept. 2 for Labor Day. Parent-Teacher conferences are Sept. 16-25. Hispanic Heritage Month is Sept. 15-Oct. 15. 4th Annual Battle of the Bands is Saturday, Sept, 21st at Concord HS The Concord High Instrumental Music Program is holding its 4th Annual Battle of the Bands at Concord High School on Saturday, September 21 at 5 p.m. This event will be jam-packed with live entertainment! It will include performances by the Concord, Northgate and Ygnacio Valley HS bands from MDUSD, as well as from Clayton Valley, Antioch/Deer Valley, and De La Salle/Carondelet high school bands. Tickets are $5 at the door. Guests who bring a can of food get $2 off their admission. Donations go to the Contra Costa/Solano Food Bank. There will also be a cash only 50/50 Raffle, customizable t-shirts by GIC Graphic Wear and the following food trucks: Hella Mas, Dad’s BBQ, Black Oak Hot Dogs, CREAM, Ice Barbers and Squeezy D’s Lemonade! See the See the attached flyers for details. Please join us for an amazing night of music, friendship and fun! School News Bridge Program "Friend’s Cafe" Now Open at the Loma Vista Adult Education Center in Concord Students in the Bridge Program serve customers at the Friends Cafe at the Loma Vista Adult Education Center (above). Guest article by Bridge Program Teacher Chloe Page Welcome to the Friends Cafe ! Opened in 2018, we have been serving delicious coffee, cookies, and other snacks and drinks to fellow students, staff, and the general public! The Friends Cafe is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9-11 a.m. and is open to the public. We are located on the Loma Vista Adult Education Campus at 1266 San Carlos Ave., Concord (94518) in Room C1. At the Friends Cafe, our students work in various jobs, including cashier, barista, greeter, and server. The Friends Cafe is also an official Employer through a joint program with the Department of Rehabilitation, which enables our students to earn a real paycheck. By working in the cafe, Bridge students have the opportunity to learn applicable, real-life skills that will empower them to enter the workforce and live their most independent lives possible. We are all so proud of the work that our student-workers do and the smiles they bring to everyone's faces! MDUSD's Bridge Program is for persons 18-22 with disabilities who have completed four years of high school with a Certificate of Completion or who are working towards a Certificate of Completion and have turned 18 years old. More information is here . School Social Media Highlights Highlights from Bel Air, Valhalla, Ayers, Mt. Diablo and Gregory Gardens elementary schools Now that we have reached the end of August, we can take a look back at some of the fun activities that have already happened in our elementary schools. Recent Social Media highlights include: Back to School Night at Bel Air Elementary , a Welcome Back Dance at Valhalla Elementary , Ayers Elementary students enjoying fresh cantaloupe from the salad bar, a smile-filled "Welcome Back" video reel from Mt. Diablo Elementary , and 5th and 2nd grade buddies reading together at Gregory Gardens Elementary! Highlights from Pine Hollow and Valley View middle schools Students at both Pine Hollow and Valley View middle schools have been busy using their measuring skills recently! Pine Hollow MS 8th-graders had an 80's-themed "Measurement Party" in their science class, while students at Valley View MS were featured in a recent Pioneer news article measuring and cutting wood in their woodshop class. The article also highlighted the woodshop class at Sequoia MS! (And Foothill MS also has a thriving woodshop program). Highlights from Concord, Olympic & Northgate high schools & the College Now program at DVC MDUSD high school students have been active giving back to the community, socializing, and working collaboratively on class projects. Recent Social Media highlights include: Cross country runners from Concord HS joined teams from other DAL schools in cleaning up the course at Hidden Valley Park in Martinez, an ice cream social at Olympic HS , College Now orientation activities such as sharing their "why" statements, and the Northgate HS spirit team and marching band entertaining families at the Walnut Acres Elementary ice cream social and "crushing it," according to Principal Kelly Cooper! Staff Social Media Highlights District offices, Gregory Gardens & Shore Acres elementary & Holbrook Language Academy We love to see MDUSD staff collaborating with colleagues from different schools, uplifting our MDUSD community. It's also fun to see staff and students sharing special moments together. A recent high school Social Media post featured: "An impactful and inspiring day of learning" with the MDUSD Ethnic Studies team (l-r) Counseling and Restorative Practices Program Specialist Pedro Arroyo; teachers Lauren Weaver, Shannon Carr, and Laura Valdez; curriculum specialist Susan Hartwig; Ricky Aguirre from the UC Berkeley History-Social Science Project; and teachers Meg Honey and Bryan Shaw. "So grateful for this amazing group and our work with the UC Berkeley History-Social Science Project," Honey said. Meanwhile, elementary staff highlights included: Accidental "twinning" by Elementary School Support Director Erin DeMartini and Elementary School Support Administrator Lauren Ashton wearing matching Mountain View Elementary Mustangs t-shirts; Gregory Gardens Elementary teachers Megan Belenkov and Marlene Yarosh sharing birthday recognitions with three students; and a shout-out to Shore Acres Principal Lisamarie Gascot Reyes for gifting a puzzle to the Holbrook Learning Academy "lunch bunch," followed up with a return shout-out to Counselor Angela Ordaz for "supporting our kiddos!" Important Dates Sept. 2: Labor Day Holiday ; schools and District offices are closed Sept. 11: District Governing Board meeting at 6 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom Sept. 12: African American Parent Advisory Committee (AAPAC) meeting at 6 p.m. in the Black Family Resource Room at 236 Pacifica Ave., Bay Point Sept. 16: Mt. Diablo Business Education Alliance (MDBEA) meeting at 4 p.m. at Mt. Diablo HS Sept. 17: Special Education Community Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting at 7 p.m. in the District Office Boardroom and on Zoom to view. The Friday Letter is written and compiled by Theresa Harrington Brandt, Public Information and Community Relations Officer. Reach her at brandtt@mdusd.org for Friday Letter submissions.
Saturday, Aug 31 2024