March - June 2019 District Newsletter

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 1

SUPERINTENDENT’S MESSAGE

FOLLOW US It has been another amazing year
for Salinas City Elementary School
AND GIVE US A LIKE! District. Our last newsletter for the
school year captures many of the
@SalinasCitySD extraordinary moments of events
and special recognition of our stu-
Mar-Jun DISTRICT NEWSLETTER dents, teachers, support staff and
administrators.
YEAR: 2019 | ISSUE: 22 Throughout the year, I thoroughly
enjoyed visiting each school. Some
TABLE OF CONTENTS of my most memorable moments
were observing classrooms where
Katie Holt teachers were challenging students
Champion in Education with rigorous materials, implement-
Award Winner ............................................. 5 ing structured writing activities and
Oscar Saavedra engaging students with innovative
Movers, Makers & Bakers learning projects. This year I have
Award Winner ............................................. 6 seen greater evidence of math-
Yolanda Cornejo ematical practices as well as the integration of science, social studies and technology within English
Building Blocks Award Winner............... 7 Language Arts. Thank you for your commitment and effort to provide our students positive learning
experiences to achieve their goals and move towards grade level proficiency.
Most Inspirational ................................... 10 Education has changed greatly since my first days as a teacher. We now shoulder many other re-
Testing and SIS ......................................... 14 sponsibilities as we endeavor to teach to the whole child. This is evident in each of our 14 schools
Curriculum & Instruction ...................... 15 as we teach students to become respectful, responsible and ready to learn. Our PBIS framework is
School Improvement & comprehensive and school-wide efforts permeate each campus. Kudos to Troy Bunke and Claudia
Parent Involvement.................................. 16 Chaidez for receiving recognition as PBIS leaders at the annual Monterey County PBIS Showcase. I was
Seamless Summer ................................... 17 overwhelmed with pride when over 2,000 4-6th grade students from SCESD, SUHS and AUSD joined
Culture & Climate..................................... 18 together to show how important it is to stand up against bullying. This made our March Against Bully-
Technology & Innovation ..................... 20 ing a whopping success. It has become a citywide event to showcase how our students have learned to
Food Services ............................................ 21 become outstanding Upstanders. It is evident to Salinas City and beyond that we are leading the way
Transportation .......................................... 22 to making our schools and community a better place for all.
Parent Leadership Conference ........... 24 Each magazine featured the winners of our SCESD annual winners. Katie Holt, Oscar Saavedra and
Family Resource Center ........................ 27 Yolanda Cornejo deserve a big shout out for their exemplary contributions and service to our district
Lyceum Spelling Bee .............................. 28 and our students. Also, we are so excited for Meredith Jones who was selected as Monterey County’s
Pink Shirt Day ........................................... 29 Teacher of the Year. Meredith will move on to the state level to represent our district and county in the
KION Classroom Makeover ................. 33 California Teacher of Year program. In addition, Leticia Garcia and Sherry Villaneda received Admin-
March Against Bullying ......................... 34 istrator of Year awards from the Region 10 Association of California School Administrators (ACSA).
Open Houses Across SCESD ............... 38 Sherry was selected as the California Co-Administrator of the Year and will honored in November at the
Ride For Reading ..................................... 40 ACSA Leadership Summit.
Senior Walks .............................................. 41 As the year ends, it is always a heartwarming day when seniors visit their elementary campuses. They
Arbor Day ................................................... 43 come to share their childhood memories and their stories of success as they reach this milestone. This
Race for the Medal ................................. 44 year Jeremy Galimba and Martha Ruiz were selected by the Valedictorians from North Salinas High
NASA Family Cafe ................................... 45 School as their most influential teachers. We are proud to validate the excellent work and accomplish-
Foam Run & Jog-A-Thon ..................... 46 ments of so many outstanding SCESD employees.
It has been an honor to serve as Superintendent of Salinas City Elementary School District for the last
four years. We have overcome many challenges and I truly appreciate your support in making this
another successful year for our district. I am looking forward to next year and seeing you on August 5th
at our Welcome Back Breakfast. My hope for everyone is that your summer is filled with joy, relaxation
and laughter, making special memories with your family and friends. Have a fantastic summer vacation!

MarthaMartinez

Superintendent

ON THE COVER BOARD OF TRUSTEES Kathryn Francisco Stephen Art
Ramirez Javier Kim Galimba
Katie Holt Amy Estrada
Ish Trusee Area 3 Trusee Area 5 Trusee Area 1
Teacher at Roosevelt Elementary and Trusee Area 2
Champion in Education Award Winner Trusee Area 4

Read her interview on Page 7

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CHAMPION IN EDUCATION AWARD WINNER

Certificated

KATIE
HOLT

We are entering our final segment of our 3-part series through other teachers working for the district. I really
highlighting our Welcome Back Breakfast Employee Award enjoy the ability to try new things to improve my practice
Winners from the 2018-19 school year. and own knowledge, so that really drew me to SCESD.

We asked our award winners questions to describe what What keeps you motivated and inspired
thier award means to them and what advice would they give on a daily basis?
to new educators beginning their journey.
The students in our classes are definitely inspirations for me.
For our first interview, we spoke with Champion in Educa- Even though they come from various backgrounds, native
tion Award Winner, Katie Holt. languages, and academic abilities, they’re still young kids
who deserve every opportunity and chance in life! Seeing
What’s your title and site location? students let go of what they bring from home and interact
and learn with each other despite their challenges or differ-
Teacher, Roosevelt Elementary ences is really inspirational and keeps me motivated.

How many years of teaching/experience? What does your award mean to you?

3 years I was extremely surprised and humbled to receive an
award! Everyone at our school sites work so hard and it
What brought you to Salinas City truly has become a community so I was not expecting to
Elementary School District? be nominated at the very least. It has been very meaning-
ful to me to be recognized and inspires me to continue to
I had heard very positive things about SCESD and the differ- work hard for our students!
ent programs for both students and teachers they offered
What is the most gratifying thing
about your job?

The most gratifying thing about teaching is seeing how
excited students are when they’re able to grasp or explain
a new concept to someone else, academically or socially.
Knowing that they have understood a lesson and are in
return able to communicate it to someone else, and to see
the excitement is such a rewarding feeling!

Any advice for new educators?

The best advice I can give for new educators is don’t be
afraid to ask for help! Whether that’s finding a mentor on
campus, reaching out to other teachers, or even bouncing
ideas for lessons/behavior off of admin, a little help can go
a long way!

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 7

MOVERS, MAKERS & BAKERS AWARD WINNER

Classified Custodian. I heard from others that Salinas City Elemen-
tary School District was a great place to work at, so I
OSCAR decided, why not, and here I am enjoying myself working
SAAVEDRA at SCESD for the last 5 years at a wonderful school.

For our second interview, we spoke with Movers, Makers & What keeps you motivated and
Bakers Award Winner, Oscar Saavedra. inspired on a daily basis?

What’s your title and school location? What keeps me motivated are the simple things, like a
“Thank You” from a teacher for replacing a light bulb in
Head Custodian, Natividad Elementary
their room, a “Good Morning”
How many years of teaching/experience? from a parent dropping off
their child, or a note from a
5 years as Head Custodian student thanking me for help-
ing them find his backpack.
What brought you to Salinas City These are the simple things
Elementary School District? make my day.

I was really looking for a stable job, a place where I could use What does your
some of my work experience and learn more about being a award mean to you?

Being honored with this award
means I’m doing my job. This
is something I really enjoy and
it makes me proud that others
appreciate what I do for them.

What is the most gratifying thing
about your job?

Probably the most gratifying thing is knowing that I ‘m
part of a team that is helping students succeed in their
education and in life. Although I am not a teacher, I hope
that having a clean classroom and workspace to study in
and learn will let them know, we all care about them.

Any advice for new educators?

Keep doing your best, our students need you.

8 ||MMAARRCCHH--JJUUNNEEDDIISSTTRRIICCTTNNEEWWSSLLEETTTTEERR || IISSSSUUEE2222

BUILDING BLOCKS AWARD WINNER

YOLANDACertificated What keeps you motivated and inspired
CORNEJO on a daily basis?

For our final interview of our 3-part series honoring our What keeps me motivated and inspired is experiencing
Welcome Back Breakfast annual award winners, we spoke the pleasure of seeing how each day children surpass
with Building Blocks Award Winner, Yolanda Cornejo. their goals. Another thing, is seeing my student’s desire
when learning something new.
What’s your title and school location?
What does your award mean to you?
SPED Instructional Aide, Sherwood Elementary
Last year was very challenging for me. I had six stu-
How many years of teaching/experience? dents with behavior problems and it was really stress-
ful for me. At the end of the tough days, I would say
22 years to myself “tomorrow will be a better day”. This award
means that all the effort and time I invested into my
What brought you to Salinas City students, carrying out and teaching the lessons every
Elementary School District? day, was all worth it.

I was in the search for a better job and I wanted to be with What is the most gratifying thing
my kids more often. I saw that Salinas City Elementary about your job?
School District was hiring, and I took the chance and ap-
plied. I’ve never looked back since then. The most gratifying thing about my job is knowing
that I am helping students and giving them different
strategies and the right tools so they can have better
understanding of school subjects. Also offering support
so they can have more confidence in themselves in and
out of the classroom.

Any advice for new categorical analyst
or people starting for the District?

You must have a lot of patience, give your best, treat
children with care and a lot of respect.

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 9

HONORING OUR LEADERS

BY RICHARD GEBIN

CO-VALEDICTORIANS

HONOR MOST INSPIRATIONAL TEACHERS

MAKAELAH CRYSTAL
NAPOLITANO
QUINTERO-AHUMADA
JEREMY
GALIMBA MARTHA
RUIZ
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HONORING OUR LEADERS

A s graduation season quicky ap- Don’t make fun of me, but as I said I am What college will you attend next
proaches (and passes) for the big on math so it was really memorable to year?
class of 2019, Seniors have the measure my variety of circle foods in order
to eat it. Makaelah: I will be attending UC Santa
opportunity to bestow thanks, Cruz.
Crystal: My favorite memories with Mrs.
gratitude and appreciation to those who Ruiz have taken place when I have been Crystal: I will be attending UC Berkeley in
doing community service in the main of- the Fall.
have supported them throughout their fice with Mrs. Ruiz. While doing community
service, Mrs. Ruiz has always taken time to What do you want to study in col-
journey to graduation. talk to me about what and how I am doing lege? and, Why?
and my plans for the future. These times are Makaelah: I want to study biomedical
Two students, in particular, have acknowl- my favorite memories with her because it engineering and further specify in the de-
edged two individuals as their “Most In- reflects her good hearted and kind nature. velopment of making prosthetics. I have al-
spirational Teachers” in their educational My favorite memory of Mr. Galimba has ways been a hands-on person and a lover of
careers. been during class (in sixth grade) when we math, so engineering was always the route
would discuss the presidential election and I knew I was going to take. However, I also
Makaelah Napolitano and Crystal Quin- had class debates. This is my favorite mem- wanted to be able to help people, therefore,
tero-Ahumada, both North Salinas High ory because through these times in class I making prosthetics for those in need called
School (NSHS) graduates and co-Valedicto- learned so much and my interest for politics my name.
rians for the NSHS Class of 2019. and government grew. Crystal: I will be studying Biology at UC
Berkeley because I aspire to become a doc-
Makaelah and Crystal are former students What inspired you most with Mr. tor, specifically a family practitioner.
of El Gabilan Elementary School where they Jeremy Galimba and/or Mrs. Mar-
attended from Preschool through their tha Ruiz? What inspires you (now) to work
Sixth grade years. They were taught by for- hard and do good in school?
mer teachers Jeremy Galimba and Martha Makaelah: I had nominated Mr. Galimba Makaelah: Again, my mom and my broth-
Ruiz. Jeremy is now an Academic Coach as my most inspirational teacher because ers are my biggest inspirations, always. They
and Martha is an Administrative Secretary he embedded key values into my brain say I inspire them with my achievements but
for El Gabilan who both have a combined that resonated with me all the years after. they forget to recognize how much they in-
total of close to 30 years of teaching expe- He taught life lessons in his class that sur- spire me.
rience. Jeremy and Martha were nominated passed just the academic portions of school Crystal: I am inspired by the goals I have
as Makaelah and Crystal’s most influential and it opened my perspectives and helped and my vision for my life in the future. I
teachers. me develop my own morals. know in order to have the life I want and to
help my parents, I need to work hard and
We interviewed both Makaelah and Crystal Crystal: Mrs. Ruiz inspired me through do good in school so I can get the job of
to gain insight on their elementary school her good heart and kind nature, she is so my dreams.
journey and to see what next steps and kind and genuinely cares about students,
goals they have planned for the future. In which has always inspired me to be a bet- What advice do you have for elemen-
addition, we interviewed Jeremy and Mar- ter person. Mr. Galimba inspired me by be- tary students who are working hard
tha to see how being teachers, has positiv- ing a very kind and knowledgeable person, to promote to middle school?
iely changed and enhanced their lives. his class taught me to always be informed Makaelah: Elementary and Middle school
about the world around you and take into is confusing and you may lose friends, but
Did you graduate with any honors consideration all perspectives. stick to those ones who stay true to you.
or accolades? They will help light up even the darkest of
What was your motivation while times.
Makaelah: I graduated as Co-Valedictorian being at El Gabilan? Why?
and with the Seal of Biliteracy.
Makaelah: In all my schooling years, my
Crystal: I graduated as co-Valedictorian mom has always been my motivation be-
and was the California Scholarship Fed- cause everything that I do, is for her. We are
eration Seal Bearer, recognized as part of not the most blessed family in the sense of
National Honors Society and community finances, however, I am the most blessed for
service. her. I will be a first-generation college grad-
uate, speaking it into existence now.
What is your most favorite memory of
Mr. Galimba and Mrs. Ruiz, and why is Crystal: My motivation to do well while be-
it your favorite? ing at El Gabilan was my own desire to do
well and excel in school as well as the moti-
Makaelah: For Mrs. Ruiz, my favorite mem- vation of my teachers.
ory was walking into my class for the first
time. Being the little preschooler I was, I
bawled my eyes out, however, she reassured
me with a hug and she became the first
teacher on my academic journey. My favor-
ite memories of Mr. Galimba was Pi Day.

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 11

Do you have a favorite book you
like to read?

Makaelah: I have read many books, rang-
ing from children books to nonfiction nov-
els throughout the year, but since I was
younger, it has always been The Giving Tree
by Shel Silverstein.

What are your top three apps you
have on your smartphone?

Makaelah:
1. Instagram
2. Twitter
3. Lumosity

Crystal:
1. YouTube
2. Snapchat
3. Netflix

Crystal: My advice would be to work hard Crystal: The quote by Martin Luther King Makaelah and Crystal are well on their way
and continue to move forward. Prioritize Jr. that states, “If you can’t fly, then run. If in acheiving everything they want in life.
yourself by knowing that your end goal is you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, With hard work, commitment, and continu-
graduating high school some day and go- then crawl. But whatever you do, you have ing their superb effort to reach their goals,
ing on to college to get the job of your to keep moving forward.” they’ll succeed in anything they put their
dreams. While you will have to work hard mind to.
for a long time, your end goal will be worth If you can take a trip to anywhere
it in the long run. in the world, where would you go? We don’t succeed alone. We succeed by
having supportive individuals around us,
What advice do you have for Makaelah: Somewhere in the Philippines pushing us forward and providing us mo-
teachers who want to inspire stu- because I have never been there so I want tivation and inspiration along the way. We
dents to do great? to see where my family came from and ex- conducted an interview with Martha and
plore my own culture and heritage. Jeremy to see what type of inspiration they
Makaelah: gave to Makaelah and Crystal and how they
1. Connect with your students. Crystal: If I could go anywhere in the use these milestone moments as fuel to in-
Students cannot retain information or feel world, I would want to visit France because spire our current and future students.
motivated to learn if they don’t feel any sort that has always been a lifelong dream of
of relationships with their teachers. mine and I am interested in the culture and Jeremy Galimba, former classroom teacher
history of the country. and now Academic Coach, has been with
2. Be open to more.
Reach beyond just the world of science,
math, english, and history. Expose your stu-
dents to things that are happening in the
world around them.

3. Support your students.
Failure is when students give up on them-
selves, so help them see that they have the
potential to succeed.

Crystal:
1. Teachers can truly inspire students to ex-
cel in school when teachers show their true
passion for the subject they are teaching.

2. Students truly appreciate and are mo-
tivated to do better when teachers reach
out to students when they need help or are
struggling in class.

Is there a quote or saying that you
live your life by?

Makaelah: “Grasp the world for what it is
then you will find true happiness.”

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Salinas City for 13 years, and Martha Ruiz, former preschool Who was your most influential teacher or mentor
teacher and now Administrative Secretary has been with the Sa- growing up?
linas City for 21 years. Jeremy: Mr. Corpus, my 2nd and 4th grade teacher

What do you remember most about Makealah Na- Martha: My most influential mentor was my beloved aunt Maria.
politano and/or Crystal Quintero?
So many students admire you. How do you make those
Jeremy: I was fortunate to have both of these amazing students connections?
in my 6th grade class. They were very conscientious as learners, Jeremy: The strongest connections happen when students feel
and carried with them a very mature perspective on life. Crystal known, loved, and challenged.
was so kind and respectful, and would regularly have something
clever to say with the biggest smile on her face. Makaelah was a Martha: I truly loved teaching preschool. I think strong connections
born leader with incredible integrity, whose warmth and laughter were made when students know and feel that you truly care about
brightened up the whole world around her. them.

Martha: What I remember the most about Crystal Quintero is What tips can you give other educators about building
how well spoken she was when she was only 4 years old! rapport and connections with their students?
Jeremy:
Do you have an amazing memory of either Make- 1. Take the time to know your students. Quality time only happens in
alah, Crystal or both? the context of quantity time.
2. Love students unconditionally. Make sure they know it is okay to
Jeremy: I remember us having several class-wide debates during make mistakes, as long as you fail forward.
the election season, where Crystal developed a comprehensive 3. Always challenge students to be a better version of themselves.
argument for her position. Let’s just say the opposing viewpoint They don’t need to go for perfection, just better than before.
was not left with much to say. I also remember Makaelah design-
ing an innovative water rocket for our annual competition. It still Martha: Be a good listener. Be kind. Make learning fun.
holds the record at El Gabilan for the most epic rocket launch
ever, clearing the entire grass field and finally landing in a nearby What is one mantra you live by as an educator?
backyard. Jeremy: “Be like bacon”...because bacon makes everything better!

Martha: Both Crystal and Makealah were my little leaders in pre- Martha: Teach them well, love them much!
school. Always ready to help anyone that needed help. I remem-
ber them comforting students that were missing their moms on How do you want to be remembered as an educator?
the first few days of school. Helping students understand direc- Jeremy: I would love to be remembered as a lifelong mentor who
tions on how to do certain activities, tying shoe laces for their inspired and influenced others to be the best version of themselves.
friends, etc...... Very smart and kind little ladies!
Martha: I would like to be remembered as someone that inspired love
Tell me your feelings when finding out you were of learning.
considered as a student’s most inspirational
teacher? Congratulations to Makaelah, Crystal, the class of 2019, and our ed-
ucators who are insprining our future generations and going above
Jeremy: I was thoroughly honored to make that kind of impact and beyond their call of duty to positively effect the lives of so many!
on a student’s life. My deepest satisfaction comes from being a
mentor that guides someone to be the hero they have always
wanted to be.

Martha: I felt very joyful and honored!

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 13

ASSESSMENT & ACCOUNTABILITY

BY VIRGINIA GARZA NUNEZ

GREETINGS FROM THE
TESTING & SIS DEPARTMENT

ADA (AVERAGE DAILY ATTENDANCE):

The district’s ADA average for Months 1-9 was 95.63 % and 95.75% including Saturday attendance recovery (AARC).
Congratulations to Boronda Academy for meeting the State ADA goal of 97%. Please continue to communicate to parents
and students the importance of making everyday count!

THIS CHART REPRESENTS OUR THIS CHART REPRESENTS OUR
ADA MONTH 9 BY GRADE LEVEL. 2018/19 ADA BY MONTH COMPARED

14 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | ISSUE 22 TO LAST YEAR’S ADA BY MONTH.

CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTION BY RON DILLENDER

TIS’ THE END
OF ANOTHER YEAR

WITH ANOTHER YEAR COMING FAST TO AN END, LET’S PAUSE

AND REFLECT ON HOW FAR WE HAVE COME TOGETHER!
I n this season of graduations, many of this year’s graduates
from local high schools visited the elementary schools they that inspired a love for Life Science and nurtured a love for
attended. I was honored today to listen to teachers from all members of our community. Thank you Ms. Christensen
for always pushing me to think of things in different ways and

our district share experiences and fond memories of these stu- never accepting less than my best effort. Thank you Mr. Colón

dents. One described that when a former student visited their who helped me gain a love of the Spanish language and hold

site, they saw the teacher from the other side of the campus myself and others to the highest of standards. I remember

and broke into a sprint across the blacktop right toward them. them fondly and each lives on holding a place in my heart. I

Their reunion ended in an embrace of gratitude to this teacher know that in these acknowledgements I am not alone. We

and many others who had helped them along the way. A sec- have those who influenced us. We remember the way we felt

ond teacher was humbled to be invited by the graduating class about them and the way that we think they felt about us. Their

Valedictorian to be their special VIP guest in recognition of classes were more than worksheets and lectures, these were

being their “Most Influential Teacher.” The student expressed classrooms where we felt welcomed, we were challenged, and

how inspired and supported this teacher made them feel and in many cases, we were loved.

how even after all these years, they hold reverence for them.

Other teachers added their own memories of these and other So as we head out into the summer months, remember that

students that they have taught over the years. while it may be our job, “Teacher” is our calling as well.

To the voices and thanks of these students, I add my own to Let’s once again commit to making a difference with Every
some of the teachers who had such an impact on me and Student, Every Lesson, Every Day.
inspired me to want to be an educator like them. Thank you
Mr. Ferrera for a classroom of structure, consistency, and Thank you again for the chance to serve and work with each of
support; who remembered me and helped me during a very you. Have a wonderful summer!
difficult part of my life. Thank you Ms. Foster for a classroom

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 15

SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT &

PARENT INVOLVEMENT

BY ELIZABETH LOPEZ

GETTING READY
FOR SUMMER

S ummer is a great time for all kinds of learning op- SUMMER PROGRAMS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT BORONDA
portunities for kids. This year, SCESD has planned a MEADOWS AND NATIVIDAD SCHOOL TO STUDENTS NOT
variety of intensive intervention programs to boost MEETING STANDARDS IN READING AND MATH.
critical literacy and math skills.
A Kinder Bridge program will also be offered at both Boronda
Summer programs will be available at Boronda Meadows and Meadows and Natividad school to support students with no
Natividad School to students not meeting standards in reading preschool experience.
and math.
Extended School Year (ESY), per IEP, will also be at Boronda
Jump Into Math is a four week program for students in grades Meadows and Natividad for students in Special Day Class-
1-6 that will run from June 17-July 12. Students will receive 2 es. Academic and the same enrichment opportunities will be
hours of math intervention followed by 60 minutes of outdoor offered. ESY will run from June 17-July 12. ESY RSP students
physical activities and 60 minutes of art with instructors from will be included in the Jump into Math intervention, and receive
Hijos del Sol. additional instruction per their IEP.

Springboard Collaborative is a 5 week intensive literacy pro- Employment opportunities will be available for both certificated
gram that will be offered at Natividad School for students who and classified staff. Openings will be posted during the next
qualify for the Low Performing Student Block Grant and will run posting cycles.
from June 17 - July 19, 2019.

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FOOD SERVICES

BY CARLOS MURTA

SEAMLESS SUMMER PROGRAM
IS BACK!
Boronda Meadows 915 Larkin Dr.

T he Salinas City Elementary School
District is pleased to announce its 2019
Seamless Summer Food Program Sites June 17 - July 12 // Monday-Friday
schedule. Free meals will be made Breakfast 8:15 - 8:45am | Lunch 12:45 - 1:15pm
available to all attending children who
are 18 years of age or younger at the
following school sites:

Henry F. Kammann 521 Rochex Ave. Natividad 1465 Modoc Ave.

June 10 - July 31 // Monday-Friday June 17 - July 19 // Monday-Friday
Lunch 12:00 - 12:30pm Breakfast 8:00 - 8:30am | Lunch 12:30pm - 1:00pm

Sherwood 110 South Wood St. Hacienda Apartments 245 Calle Cebu

July 8-July 31 // Monday-Friday June 10 - July 31 // Monday-Friday
Breakfast 8:30 - 9:00am | Lunch 12:00 - 12:30pm Lunch 11:30 - 12:00pm

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 17

CULTURE & CLIMATE BY RAFAEL ZAVALA

PBIS
MCOE AWARDS

PHOTOS FROM SHERWOOD ELEMENTARY’S
SPEAK UP EVENT. WATCH THE VIDEO ON
YOUTUBE AT bit.ly/2FFFL6I

T his year, an AMAZING group of PBIS leaders have OVERALL SUSTAINABILITY AWARD
worked diligently in rolling out Tier 1 classroom
practices. There were a few outstanding individu- Sherwood
als that “kicked it into high-gear” this year in devel-
oping warm, safe and inviting school climates and cultures. Sherwood has been implementing PBIS for quite a while. They have
Here are this year’s PBIS MCOE Awards recipients. implemented and sustained many PBIS interventions and supports with
high levels of fidelity. Their courage and will to take action is palpable.
Walking into Sherwood one quickly sees and feels caring relationships
with students. Congratulations to the Sherwood team for all your hard
work in sustaining PBIS!!

We are so proud to have SCESD receive this County award for a third
year in a row…GO SCESD!!...#SCESDSHINES!

18 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | ISSUE 22

CULTURE & CLIMATE

DISTRICT ADMINISTRATOR AWARD DISTRICT CHAMPION AWARD

Claudia Troy
Chaidez Brunke

Boronda Meadows Elementary School has improved their PBIS Troy is new to SCESC but has already made a huge impact. He
implementation greatly under Claudia’s leadership this year. She works at Sherwood Elementary School as the school psychologist.
has overseen all three tiers and worked closely with the staff to He has brought with him a sense of joy, lightness and energy. He
help improve the overall culture and climate. She helped lead advocates for all students attending COST, SST and IEP meetings.
the school wide charge to focus on advocacy, and mindfulness, He has presented a series to staff on behavior management in the
always maintaining clear and consistent expectations. She and classroom and spoke about creating an ideal environment for all
the PBIS team have worked diligently to find supports for all stu- students, discussing strategies for specific behaviors. He works
dents. Claudia loves her site and it shows!! She oversees student closely with the staff and students on CICO as well as multiple
leadership and peer mediators, wears crazy spirit day outfits and social groups for students. He runs weekly ukulele groups for
gets everyone one moving at the Cha Cha Slide dance parties. students, as well as an early morning staff lessons. He has brought
You can’t help but get swept up in her excitement and care for all a passion about reminding teachers to focus on self care. Truly,
she meets. Troy has demonstrated he is a champion for all. This award is well
deserved!!

PHOTOS FROM MCOE’S PBIS SHOWCASE AT SALINAS HIGH SCHOOL

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 19

TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION

BY MONIKA MACIAS

INNOVATING

FOR 21ST CENTURY TEACHING & LEARNING

Ms. Macias takes a pic with the team at Omnipro
after receiving their donation of Chromebooks.

H ello, Colleagues,
We have great news to share.
One of Salinas City’s partners, the Chromebook vendor,
Omnipro, Inc. of San Francisco, has generously donated ten (10)
new HP G6 Chromebooks that we gave away at our First Annual
STEAM Showcase!
Ranjan de Costa, CEO of Omnipro, will be here on that day to give
away the Chromebooks to the ten lucky winners.
Also, access the explanation document: http://bit.ly/2019-STEAM
20 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | ISSUE 22

FOOD SERVICES

BY CARLOS MURTA

OPANPTUHSEAMENU

W e are pleased to announce that our Food Pupusa is a thick cornmeal flatbread from the Maya/
Services Department added Pupusa to Pipil culture of El Salvador. It is stuffed with various
our fantastic menu. ingredients. It is typically accompanied by curtido (a
spicy cabbage slaw) and is traditionally eaten by hand,
It is important for our studens to try new things and get without the use of utensils.
exposure to new dishes. This begun in April, and has
been featured as our new cultural dish: Bean and Cheese
Pupusas.

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 21

TRANSPORTATION BY RICK ENRIQUEZ

OPERATION
LIFESAVER

T past few weeks have been busy for our
Transportation Department. Not only
are they driving our students around,
they are also always learning and edu-

cating themselves to keep their cre-

dentials up-to-date and keep their students safe.

Here, they attended a presentation by Operation

Lifesaver regarding railroad crossing safety.

INTERTWINING PBIS
& BUS SAFETY

Our Transportation Department is committed to
implementing and applying our PBIS framework
in everything they do. In the photo, our Trans-
portation team finishes a training at Monterey
Park led by our District’s PBIS team.

222|2M| AMRACRHC-HJU-JNUENDEIDSTISRTICRTICNTENWEWSLSELTETTETRER| I|SSISUSEU2E222

Keynote speaker, Senator Anna
Caballero, welcomes over 200
people during our Spring Parent
Leadership Conference.

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 23

PARENT LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

SPRING

Parent Leadership Conference

Our Spring Parent Leadership Conference was a huge success!
Over 200 parents came to learn about the support and resourc-
es they have at their fingertips. Thank you to all of our pre-
senters and community partners who helped make this event
equitable for all who attended. We look forward to the Fall!

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PARENT LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

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PARENT LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

COMMUNITY RESOURCE FAIR AT THE PLC PROVIDED RESOURCES, APPOINTMENTS,
GIVEAWAYS FOR PARENTS FROM 28 AGENCIES. HOSTED BY THE FRC STAFF.

26 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | ISSUE 22

FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER

ADDITIONAL LOCATION
IN NORTH SALINAS TO
OFFER MORE SERVICES
Additional Family Resource
Center opened in February
to give SCESD families an
option of location for
appointments.

FRC STUDENTS GET
SPECIAL INVITE TO
PEBBLE BEACH
Our Family Resource
Center Students were
invited to the Chevron
Golf Shoot Out at Pebble
Beach to watch profes-
sional athletes compete
in a putting contest.

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 27

LYCEUM SPELLING BEE

Clark Kent, Mission Park

Lyceum
Spelling Bee

This last Saturday, six schools participated in the Lyceum
Spelling Bee. Every student was ready to go for the big
day! Majority of our SCESD participants made it to the
2nd, 3rd & 4th rounds. HUGE KUDOS to our students
who did their best and their families who supported!
Clark Kent Apuada from Mission Park
finished in 3rd Place overall.

Mission Park Elementary Loma Vista Elementary Sherwood Elementary

Natividad Elementary Laurel Wood Elementary El Gabilan Elementary

Loma Vista Elementary
28 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | ISSUE 22

PINK SHIRT DAY

Pink Shirt Day

At the end of February, Salinas City schools participated in our annual Pink Shirt
Day. Students wear Pink in honor of Anti-Bullying Day, which is celebrated
across the nation in support of bully-free campuses and to always be mindful
to treat everyone with kindess and respect.

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PINK SHIRT DAY

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KION CLASSROOM MAKEOVER

Ms. Gonzalez awarded by
KION and Central Coast
Federal Credit Union

Congratulations to Ms. Gonzales from Roosevelt
Elementary for being awarded a $500 Classroom
Makeover from KION and Central Coast Federal
Credit Union. Students were so surprised and ex-
cited to use some of the money for Science equip-
ment and other project-related material.

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 33

MARCH AGAINST BULLYING

Three Districts.
One Message.

Our 3rd Annual March Against Bullying finished with major suc-
cess! With three districts in attendance including Alisal Union
School District and Salinas Union High School District, and with
over 2,000 students, parents, staff, administration, media and
community members, the stands were full in support of our
anti-bulling rally that culminates our year-long effort in our Pos-
itive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) initiative. Stu-
dents were completely engaged in a fun-filled, message-driv-
en event packed with music, live performances, student-led
speeches and so much more! We’ll be back next year for an
even bigger event!

If you haven’t watched it yet, watch the video!
http://bit.ly/2MyoMZy

34 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | ISSUE 22

MARCH AGAINST BULLYING

Congrats!!

to our 2019
contest winners

Sticker

Contest Winner

Sarah Fematt

6th Grade | Laurel Wood

Essay

Contest Winner

Dalylah Neligh

6th Grade | Monterey Park
Winners were honored
during the event in front
of over 2,000 students,
parents, staff, admin and
community members.

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 35

MARCH AGAINST BULLYING

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MARCH AGAINST BULLYING

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OPEN HOUSES ACROSS SCESD

MISSION PARK BORONDA MEADOWS
SHERWOOD
ROOSEVELT LAUREL WOOD LOMA VISTA

EL GABILAN

LINCOLN LINCOLN

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OPEN HOUSES ACROSS SCESD

MONTEREY PARK

MISSION PARK ROOSEVELT

LOS PADRES UNIVERSITY PARK LAUREL WOOD

EL GABILAN

NATIVIDAD UNIVERSITY PARK

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 39

“RIDE FOR READING” EVENT

Salinas High
Bike Team
Visits Roosevelt.

What a great gift! Salinas High School’s Mountain Mike
Team visited Roosevelt Elementary to bring throw their
“Rides for Reading” event. The team brought free books
to hand out to our students and also showcased some of
their awesome biking skills! Our students loved it!

40 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | ISSUE 22

ALISAL HIGH “SENIOR WALK”

AHS Senior Walk

Alisal High School Seniors visited their old stomping grounds,
Los Padres Elementary, during their ‘Senior Walk’ tour. Students
were so excited to high-five senior graduates and are motivated
and inspired to be just like them in the future!

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 41

NORTH SALINAS HIGH “SENIOR WALK”

NSHS Senior Walk

North Salinas High Vikings came for their 3rd Annual ‘Senior Walk’ to
Boronda Meadows, El Gabilan, Natividad, Kammann and Laurel Wood
Elementary schools. Graduates spoke to our students about their fond-
est memories of elementary school, inspired our students to dream big
and to work hard in everything they do so they can graduate like them.

42 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | ISSUE 22

ARBOR DAY

Monterey Park
Leads The Way
for Arbor Day

Sixth grade students from Monterey Park were invited to
participate in launching the City of Salinas’ “Adopt-A-
Tree” program. Monterey Park students planted the first
maple tree in the center of Claremont Park.

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 43

4TH ANNUAL RELAY RACE

Los Padres Students
Race to the Finish

On the mark... Get set... GO!!!! In front of screaming and cheering fellow
classmates, students were able to showcase their speed by participated in
Los Padres Elementary’s Fourth Annual Relays. Winners even recieved
medals for winning their race!

44 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | ISSUE 22

NASA FAMILY CAFE

NASA
Family Cafe

Families celebrated the conclusion of NASA Academy by
attending the NASA Family Cafe. Students display their hard
work and lead instruction by having their families complete
small projects.

ISSUE 22 | MARCH-JUNE DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | 45

MISSION PARK’S FOAM RUN

Mission Park
Has Fun in Foam

Mission Park Elementary held their Second Annual Foam
Run and Jog-A-Thon. With the help of amazing parent
volunteers and staff, the kids were able to experience
something truly amazing!!

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“STUDENTS ARE THE
FOCUS OF OUR WORK”

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