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  • Covina-Valley Unified’s Colt Outfitters Thrift Shop ...

    Covina High School’s student-run thrift shop, Colt Outfitters, has won a Golden Bell award from the California School Boards Association, recognizing the shop’s innovation and impact on supporting students. COVINA, CA – Covina High School’s student-run thrift shop, Colt Outfitters, which offers students affordable access to clothing, school supplies, backpacks, books, and toiletries, has won a Golden Bell award from the California School Boards Association, recognizing the shop’s innovation and impact on supporting students. Established in the 2021-22 school year by the school’s Interact club, Colt Outfitters offers students essentials, with most items priced at $2 or less. Colt Outfitters serves not only as a resource for students but also as a learning environment for those in the Life-Skills Education Advancement Program (LEAP), which helps special education students develop real-world skills. LEAP students assist with running the store and learning social skills that will help them succeed in future jobs and life beyond high school. “Colt Outfitters is different from other school thrift shops,” said Gianna Herrera, a Covina High senior and president of the Interact Club. “Our store is filled with Colt pride and teaches us the need to be involved in our community. It’s a small step to show us the impact we can have on the future, and really helps our whole school become closer.” Colt Outfitters aims to help students who may not have the time, resources, or access to shop for essentials on their own. Additionally, administrators, counselors, supervisors, staff, and faculty members at Covina High actively identify students dealing with special circumstances, such as homelessness, financial challenges, or those who are recent immigrants. These students are taken to the thrift store discreetly and are allowed to take as many items as they need for free. “Colt Outfitters is more than just a thrift shop; it’s a support system,” Covina High principal Dr. Daisy Carrasco said. “It ensures that every student has access to the essentials they need to thrive, while also creating opportunities for personal growth, community involvement, and meaningful connections.” The shop has grown significantly over the years, continuing to receive donations from local families and the community. “The response to Colt Outfitters has been overwhelming,” Herrera said. “We have a whole room next to the shop filled with boxes of donations that we can’t fit into the shop itself yet. Each year, the impact just continues to grow.” For the fourth consecutive year, Covina-Valley Unified high schools have earned the prestigious Golden Bell award, with Covina High School achieving back-to-back recognitions. In the 2023-24 school year, Covina High was recognized for its Agriculture Career Technical Education (CTE) program. The previous year, Northview High School received the award for its Fine Arts, Media, and Entertainment CTE pathway. In the 2021-22 school year, South Hills High School was recognized for its innovative on-campus Wellness Center and Peer Counseling program. “Colt Outfitters is just one example of the outstanding work happening across our schools,” said Covina-Valley Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Eminhizer. “Our programs go beyond the classroom, blending compassion, community service, and practical skills to prepare students for lifelong success. The continued achievements of all our high schools demonstrate our dedication to supporting and empowering every student for success.” Colt Outfitters serves as a learning environment for those in the Life-Skills Education Advancement Program (LEAP), which helps special education students develop real-world skills. LEAP students assist with running the store and learning social skills that will help them succeed in future jobs and life beyond high school.

    Saturday, Dec 07 2024

  • Superintendent Video Update: October 2024

    Dear Covina-Valley Unified Community, Our October Superintendent’s Update is here! This month's video features Grovecenter student Penelope Canas sharing the amazing things student leaders are doing for the community. This month's video also highlights the State of the District event, the District College Fair, Fall Sports Updates, and National Hispanic Heritage Month. CLICK BELOW to watch the full update! Thank you!             THANK YOU FOR WATCHING

    Tuesday, Oct 22 2024

  • Covina-Valley Unified Senior’s Resilience and Passio...

    CIF-SS named Northview High School senior Ysabella Hinojosa one of its Champions for Character for 2024, recognizing her resilience as a standout student-athlete with strong character. COVINA, CA –  Northview High School senior Ysabella Hinojosa first discovered her passion for wrestling at five years old after begging her father to let her compete in the same sport as her brothers. After years of dedication to the sport, the California Interscholastic Federation-Southern Section (CIF-SS) named Hinojosa as one of its 2024 Champions for Character, recognizing her resilience as a standout student-athlete with strong character. The CIF-SS Ethics in Sports Committee created the Champions for Character awards to recognize student-athletes who combine a fierce competitive nature with the Six Pillars of Character: trustworthiness, responsibility, respect, fairness, caring, and citizenship. “This award is priceless to me,” Hinojosa said. “It’s not only a testament to my athletic ability but to the work I put in to be a good person and have good character both inside and outside the wrestling room.” Hinojosa has wrestled for various club teams over the years and competed for Northview all four years of high school. She has faced numerous challenges during her wrestling career, including injuries to both ACLs and a torn UCL. Despite these setbacks, Hinojosa has remained steadfast in her commitment to her team and her sport and helped the Vikings win the CIF-SS Division 1 Dual Meet Championship during the 2023-24 school year. “I’ve had one heck of a ride with injuries the last few years, but each time I’ve picked myself up and returned to the mat ready to go again,” Hinojosa said. “We have the closest-knit team I’ve ever seen in wrestling at Northview and I am just so proud to be repping the black and gold for one more season!” In addition to her athletic accomplishments, Hinojosa has made her mark off the mat. She was part of a group that founded Empower Her, a women’s empowerment club at Northview and participates in several other clubs, including the Bakers Club, Fashion Club, and the National Honor Society. She has also completed the criminal justice career technical education pathway and has taken classes at Mt. San Antonio College. Looking ahead, Hinojosa said she is exploring her options for college, with plans to major in political science and eventually attend law school. While girls’ wrestling is still growing at the collegiate level, Hinojosa knows wrestling will always be a part of her life. “I’m really thankful for all the support I’ve received from my coaches, family, and teammates,” Hinojosa said. “Wrestling has taught me so many valuable life lessons, like responsibility, discipline, and holding yourself accountable, that I know will stay with me forever.” Hinojosa and other Champions for Character honorees attended a banquet ceremony on Sept. 23, where she was presented with a banner to hang in the Northview gym, a trophy commemorating the award, and scholarship money. “Ysabella is an exceptional student-athlete who embodies the values we strive to instill in all our students,” Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Eminhizer said. “Her resilience, dedication, and outstanding character are truly inspiring. We are incredibly proud of her great accomplishments.” Northview High School senior Ysabella Hinojosa has wrestled for various club teams over the years, including the Northview team for all four years of high school. She overcame several injuries before helping the Vikings win the CIF-SS Division 1 Dual Meet Championship last school year.

    Wednesday, Oct 09 2024

  • Covina-Valley Unified Teacher Advocates for Awarenes...

    COVINA, CA – Grovecenter Elementary School kindergarten teacher Jennifer Ritter is building a more inclusive learning environment for students by writing and publishing two children’s books about food allergies, using her own personal experience with gluten intolerance to educate students and families about dietary restrictions. Ritter’s diagnosis of gluten intolerance came two and a half years ago. Her daughter and grandson were also both recently diagnosed with celiac disease, an illness caused by an immune reaction to consuming gluten. This experience, she said, fueled her passion to educate others on the importance of understanding and accommodating food allergies in schools. “Before my diagnosis, I was aware of food allergies, but now I’m much more conscious of the impact they can have on students," Ritter said. "When I read my books to my class, students lit up when they saw themselves represented. It was eye-opening to see how much it meant to them." Ritter released her two books, “The Magical Cookie” and “Jacq Has Celiac,” in June 2024. She presented both books in June at the Allergy & Free From Show in London, where she connected with influencers and shared her story with more than 20,000 attendees. Ritter said she was touched at the overwhelmingly positive response she saw, and the gratitude parents expressed for the representation her books provided for their children. “I was inspired to write these books because of the exclusion I have felt in my own life and the exclusion I all too often see students face due to their food restrictions,” Ritter said. “My dream is to create a space where no child feels left out, and where educators have the tools to help all students feel included.” Grovecenter Elementary School kindergarten teacher Jennifer Ritter released her two books, “The Magical Cookie” and “Jacq Has Celiac,” in June 2024. She presented both books at the Allergy & Free From Show in London in June. Ritter’s advocacy has also extended to the digital realm, where she has built a community of more than 5,000 followers on Instagram under the handle “ glutenfreetravelstheworld .” Through this platform, she shares tips, safe restaurants, and resources for others navigating celiac disease. Ritter said she hopes to get her books in school systems, allowing for discussions in classrooms that will limit the explanation children have to give to their teacher and peers about their dietary needs. “Food allergies can be isolating, especially for young students,” Ritter said. “I hope my books and advocacy work inspire other educators to be more aware of these challenges and to create classrooms where all students feel safe and included.” Ritter’s work aligns with Covina-Valley Unified’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and equitable practices, ensuring that all students feel supported. “Mrs. Ritter’s dedication to her students and her work in raising awareness about food allergies exemplify the inclusive culture we strive to foster in Covina-Valley Unified,” Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Eminhizer said. “We are proud to have educators like Mrs. Ritter who go above and beyond to ensure that every student feels seen, valued, and safe.” Ritter’s books are available for purchase online through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Target, and she plans to continue her advocacy through future projects and events. Grovecenter Elementary School kindergarten teacher Jennifer Ritter is building a more inclusive learning environment for students by writing and publishing two children’s books about food allergies, using her own personal experience with gluten intolerance to educate students and families about dietary restrictions.

    Saturday, Sep 28 2024

  • Student Accident and Sickness Insurance

    Dear Covina-Valley Families,  We want to inform you of the option to purchase Student Accident and Sickness Insurance for your child through Myers-Stevens & Toohey. For more details, please see the attached brochure in English and Spanish. If you're interested in this coverage and think it will benefit your child throughout the school year, sign up online by clicking  HERE  or reach out for more information by calling 1-800-827-4695. Kindly be aware that Myers-Stevens & Toohey is a separate entity that is not directly associated with the Covina-Valley Unified School District. Thank you!

    Saturday, Aug 17 2024

  • We Want to Hear From YOU! Complete the Parent Worksh...

    Hello Covina-Valley Parents, Covina-Valley Unified School District is dedicated to partnering with parents and families to ensure every student reaches their unlimited potential. We offer workshops and training to support this collaborative effort. To better understand your needs and preferences for these workshops and training, we kindly request that you complete this brief survey. Your input will help us tailor our assistance to meet your needs effectively. Once this survey is completed, we will offer workshops and training on the selected topics. We look forward to working with you! CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE THE SURVEY Thank You!

    Friday, Aug 09 2024

  • Superintendent Video Update: June 2024

    Dear Covina-Valley Unified Community, Our June Superintendent’s Update is here! This month’s video highlights our Class of 2024 graduates, our dedicated Teacher and Classified Employee of the Year, the Golden State Partnership Pathways Grant, and more.   CLICK HERE  to watch the full update! Thank you! THANK YOU FOR WATCHING

    Friday, Jun 28 2024

  • Covina-Valley Unified Celebrates Class of 2024 with ...

      Covina High School recognized three AP Scholars with Distinction, four AP Scholars with Honor, and seven AP Scholars during its Class of 2024 commencement ceremony on June 4. COVINA, CA –  Covina-Valley Unified School District celebrated the culmination of a year filled with accomplishments from its talented and diverse Class of 2024 with five vibrant commencement ceremonies, held June 3-6, that honored the achievements of more than 1,000 graduates. Among the many standout graduating seniors, the District recognized 49 valedictorians who achieved 4.0 GPAs. Class of 2024 graduates from South Hills, Covina, and Northview high schools will go on to attend esteemed schools in the fall such as Yale University, Columbia University, Northwestern University, Arizona State University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the University of Colorado Boulder, the University of Oregon, the University of California, Berkeley, the University of California, Los Angeles, the University of Southern California, and many more. Many C-VUSD graduates have been awarded prestigious scholarships including a full tuition, housing, and materials scholarship through the Park Scholar Program, an $80,000 Steinhardt scholarship, a $50,000 Edison scholarship, and more. "We are immensely proud of the Class of 2024 and their many remarkable achievements during their time at Covina-Valley Unified," Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Eminhizer said. "As they embark on their future endeavors, we are confident they will accomplish extraordinary feats - continuing to achieve their limitless potential." Northview High School graduates earned 129 Golden Seal Merit Diplomas and four Advanced Placement Capstone Diplomas during its Class of 2024 commencement ceremony on June 5. Northview High School graduates earned four Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone Diplomas, nine AP Scholars, and three AP Scholars with Honors on June 5. One particularly inspiring story is that of Northview High graduate Isabella Castaneda. Despite facing significant personal difficulties – including financial struggles, living out of motels, and the unexpected death of her mother – Castaneda turned her life around. She devoted herself to summer courses, significantly improved her grades and attendance, and ultimately earned two scholarships and acceptance to California State University, Los Angeles. “As I prepare to graduate, I'm incredibly grateful for the support from my family, friends, and Northview mentors, especially my counselor, Shana Jackson, who believed in me and never gave up,” Castaneda said. “Northview High School gave me the opportunity for greatness, and I'm ready and excited to embrace my future." South Hills High School began the ceremonies on June 3, recognizing many standout students including five International Baccalaureate Diploma scholars, nine AP Scholars with Distinction, six AP Scholars with Honor, 18 AP Scholars, and eight Deaf or Hard of Hearing graduates. Additionally, 35 graduates participated in a work-based learning program through the Medical Career Technical Education Pathway, with three securing positions as Medical Assistants post-graduation. A South Hills High School graduate celebrates during the school’s Class of 2024 commencement ceremony on June 3. “Starting tomorrow, we will each venture down a different path, some of which will take us away from everything we know,” South Hills valedictorian Mia Del Real said in her speech. “So, as we walk down those stairs, flip our tassels, and toss our caps, let’s hit the pause button one more time – listen to the sounds of the laughter, the happiness of our friends, the cheers of our families – and hold onto this special moment just a while longer.” Covina High School recognized three AP Scholars with Distinction, four AP Scholars with Honor, and seven AP Scholars on June 4. One of those AP Scholars, Eunice Chung, immigrated from Hong Kong eight years ago and speaks Cantonese, Mandarin, English, and Spanish. She will attend UCLA in the fall, majoring in biochemistry on the pre-med track with a minor in entrepreneurship. “My time in high school flew by and I can’t believe I’m already graduating,” Chung said. “I will miss everyone from Covina High, especially all my supportive friends and staff members. But most importantly, I’m beyond excited to explore and enjoy the next chapter of my life at UCLA. My advice for everyone is to stay hungry, stay ambitious, and grind on for success!” A Fairvalley High School graduate celebrates with principal Rebecca Handzel and Covina-Valley Unified Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Eminhizer during the school’s June 5 ceremony. Fairvalley High School and the Covina Learning Options Academy added to the District's diverse success stories. Fairvalley graduated 60 students who overcame significant obstacles, including experiencing housing insecurity and the foster care system, throughout their lives during its June 5 ceremony. These students' determination is exemplified by their extra work, taking night classes and online courses to catch up on credits, often while working part-time jobs. Tri-Community Adult Education, with 101 graduates, added to the commencement celebrations on June 6. Graduate Julia Zavalza had previously attended five high schools and a trade school before enrolling at Tri-Community. She now plans to join the U.S. Navy and pursue a career in nursing with hopes of joining the Expeditionary Medical Facilities. “If it wasn't for our staff’s patience, care, and helpfulness none of us would be here with a cap and gown moving onto the next chapter of our lives,” Zavalza said in her graduation speech. “I’m sure many of us faced setbacks and a long journey to be here sitting in this very spot, but we did it! Congratulations, Class of 2024!” Tri-Community Adult Education celebrated 79 Class of 2024 graduates during its June 6 commencement.  

    Thursday, Jun 13 2024

  • Covina-Valley Unified Schools Shine as Seven Element...

    Mesa Elementary students celebrate Lunar New Year’s Day with a parade and assembly while wearing traditional Mandarin robes and gowns. Mesa Elementary offers students a robust Mandarin Dual Immersion program and was recently named to the Educational Results Partnership’s 2023 Honor Roll Schools list. COVINA, CA –  Seven Covina-Valley Unified elementary schools have been named to the Educational Results Partnership’s (ERP) 2023 Honor Roll Schools list, highlighting the schools’ exceptional performance, commitment to closing achievement gaps, and dedication to accelerating student learning. The ERP is the only school recognition program presented in partnership with state and local business leaders, recognizing successful schools and districts that are preparing students with the skills needed to be successful in the workforce. This year, only 17% of all eligible schools in California made the ERP’s Honor Roll list. Honorees were chosen based on student outcome data on the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress from 2019 through 2023. In addition to these school recognitions, Covina-Valley Unified was named an ERP California Honor Roll District. “These recognitions reflect the collective effort of our schools, educators, and administrators to ensure all students acquire the skills and knowledge needed for future success,” Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Eminhizer said. “We are deeply honored to have our schools and District highlighted in this way and remain steadfast in our commitment to providing students with the resources and support they need to thrive.” The seven ERP 2023 Honor Roll schools — Barranca, Grovecenter, Manzanita, Merwin, Mesa, Rowland Avenue, and Workman Avenue elementary schools — each offer unique and innovative programs to set students on the path to success from an early age. Each school site offers a robust coding program, providing hands-on programming experience starting as early as transitional kindergarten. “Grovecenter Elementary stands out due to its commitment to innovative teaching practices, a supportive learning environment, and consistent academic success across a diverse student population," Grovecenter principal Ann Anderson said. “We are honored to receive this recognition that reflects the hard work of all our students, teachers, and staff.” Strong reading comprehension is a priority across all school sites, with personalized one-on-one classroom attention to help students achieve their reading goals. Teachers, staff, and administrators work to ensure every student has access to the opportunities and resources needed for success, including offering numerous after-school programs to support students with their homework. Additionally, Mesa and Manzanita elementary schools offer dual language immersion programs in Mandarin and Spanish, respectively, giving students the unique opportunity to become bilingual and bi-literate while developing unique cultural perspectives. “As a Dual Language Magnet School, Manzanita exemplifies a learning environment where students and language are valued, and education thrives with limitless possibilities,” Manzanita principal Beth Mossman said. “This recognition underscores the collective effort of Manzanita's teachers and staff in advancing every student toward proficiency in Math and English Language Arts and beyond.” A Barranca Elementary kindergarten student participates in a class activity. Seven Covina-Valley Unified elementary schools were named to the Educational Results Partnership’s 2023 Honor Roll Schools list, highlighting the schools’ exceptional performance, commitment to closing achievement gaps, and dedication to accelerating student learning.

    Saturday, Jun 01 2024

  • Covina-Valley Unified Student's Passion and Dedicati...

     Northview High School senior Marcus Tolentino has earned a full-ride wrestling scholarship to the United States Merchant Marine Academy thanks to his hard work and dedication. Tolentino has been on the varsity wrestling team all four years at Northview and has qualified for State three times. COVINA, CA –  As a child, Marcus Tolentino kept his parents on their toes with his boundless energy. They introduced him to wrestling in seventh grade to help channel his energy, igniting an instant passion for the sport in the process. Now a senior at Northview High School, Tolentino’s passion and hard work have earned him a full-ride wrestling scholarship to the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA). USMMA is one of the five United States service academies and trains future officers for the Merchant Marine, branches of the military, and the transportation industry. Out of 2,000 qualified applicants, only 200 were granted an appointment to the school. “Receiving this scholarship is what my parents and I have been dreaming of for years,” Tolentino said. “All the hard work and dedication I’ve put in both inside the classroom and in the wrestling room have finally paid off and I’m just so grateful!” In his freshman year at USMMA, Tolentino will begin working toward his bachelor of science degree in systems engineering. He said that he also looks forward to becoming a certified Emergency Medical Technician and going through the academy’s firefighter program. During his sophomore and junior years, Tolentino will gain hands-on experience working on a cargo ship as a merchant marine, where he will travel to 36 different countries in a span of 18 months, earning money for his work and juggling school at the same time. While on the cargo ship, Tolentino will continue practicing wrestling and will return to the mainland for school tournaments. Tolentino is looking forward to learning more about all the options available to him after graduating from USMMA and is especially interested in either joining the Air Force or becoming a merchant marine. “It’s definitely going to be a busy time, but I’m so excited,” Tolentino said. “Wrestling is my favorite thing in the whole world, and I’ve loved every step of my wrestling journey and seeing all the paths it’s opened up for me.” Tolentino has been on the varsity wrestling team at Northview High all four years and has qualified for the elite California Interscholastic Federation State Championships three times. In his time at Northview, Tolentino has also enjoyed being part of the Associated Student Body and the school’s arts program, where he gained unique skills in animation and photography. “Marcus is a remarkable example of what dedication and perseverance can achieve,” Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Eminhizer said. “He not only excels in wrestling but has also demonstrated leadership and high achievement inside the classroom throughout his time at Northview. The United States Merchant Marine Academy is gaining an exceptional student, and we're thrilled to have been part of his journey." Northview High School senior Marcus Tolentino will attend the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in the fall after receiving a full-ride wrestling scholarship. While at USMMA, Tolentino will earn a bachelor of science degree in systems engineering with hopes of either joining the Air Force or becoming a merchant marine.

    Friday, May 24 2024