Golden Bell Awards 2020

The CSBA Golden Bell Awards, now in its 41st year, promotes excellence in education and school board governance by recognizing outstanding programs and governance practices of school boards in school districts and county offices of education throughout California. Golden Bell Awards reflect the depth and breadth of education programs and governance decisions supporting these programs that address students’ changing needs. This awards program highlights best practices in education in all areas of operations, instruction and support services by:

Seeking out and recognizing key governance practices that support, sustain and inspire the creation and continuance of exemplary education programs
Seeking out and recognizing sustainable, innovative or exemplary programs which have been developed and successfully implemented by California teachers and administrators
Recognizing and supporting educators who invest extra energy and time to make a demonstrated difference for students
Promoting models with positive student outcomes
Focusing on the commitment to ensure that the needs of targeted students are met

Identifying exemplary programs serves as a way to share information about effective educational strategies. The Golden Bell Awards program also serves to boost confidence in public education by focusing attention on success in our schools. Finally, it enables the California School Boards Association, on behalf of school governing boards throughout the state, to express appreciation to dedicated educators who strive to provide a high-quality education that challenges all students to succeed.

This year, 116 entries in 19 categories were received. Experts from school districts and county offices of education comprised the 26-member judging panel.

Sponsored by

Premier

High School

10th-Grade
Opportunity Program

Fullerton Joint Union HSD, La Sierra High School

Tenth-Grade Opportunity targets students who demonstrated poor academics and behavior in ninth grade. The program addresses gaps in basic skills through intensive reading and math intervention instruction. Students’ social-emotional issues are also addressed using a variety of supports including full-staff training on trauma-informed instruction, weekly restorative circles and access to group and individual counseling. Finally, an after-school program addresses students’ inappropriate behavior.

Congratulations

V. Scott Scambray
Superintendent

Andrew Montoya
Board President

Sandi Layana
Principal

Gavin Beglin
Teacher

Tamara Wouters
Teacher

Kristina Dean
Teacher

Cathy Sverev
Teacher

Ken Lentz
Teacher

Ben Nguyen
Teacher

Brian Cuevas
Counselor

V. Scott Scambray
Superintendent

Andrew Montoya
Board President

Sandi Layana
Principal

Gavin Beglin
Teacher

Tamara Wouters
Teacher

Kristina Dean
Teacher

Cathy Sverev
Teacher

Ken Lentz
Teacher

Ben Nguyen
Teacher

Brian Cuevas
Counselor

Alternative education classroom in session

Multi-level/Districtwide

Redlands eAcademy: A Model for Blended Learning

Redlands USD

sponsor winner

Redlands eAcademy provides a rigorous alternative K-12 educational program in a safe and supportive environment, combining standards-based curriculum with digital, small group instruction. The goal is to equip students with the academic, critical thinking, interpersonal and leadership skills necessary to achieve post-secondary educational and career goals. This program provides each student a unique combination of academic rigor and socioemotional support that adapts to their family situation.

Congratulations

Mauricio Arellano
Superintendent

Patty Holohan
Board President

David Finley
Principal, eAcademy

Julie Swan
Director, Secondary Education

Multi-level/Districtwide

Monte Vista School: An Independent Learning Academy

Simi Valley USD

Monte Vista School, the independent learning program for the Simi Valley USD, has seen phenomenal enrollment growth over the last five years due to the district’s strategic enrollment-boosting campaign that included attracting non-traditional students and homeschool families back to our programs. By providing a permanent campus, expanding to a K-12 program, and assigning a dynamic and dedicated principal, Monte Vista School is now a thriving school.

Congratulations

Jason Peplinski
Superintendent

Dawn Smollen
Board President

Stephen Pietrolungo
Principal of Monte Vista School

Hani Youssef
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services

Kareem Jubran
Clerk of the Board/Trustee

Scott Blough
SVUSD Trustee

Robert LaBelle
SVUSD Trustee

Dan White
SVUSD Trustee

Jake Finch
Coordinator of Public Relations and Resource Development

Jason Peplinski
Superintendent

Dawn Smollen
Board President

Stephen Pietrolungo
Principal of Monte Vista School

Hani Youssef
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services

Kareem Jubran
Clerk of the Board/Trustee

Scott Blough
SVUSD Trustee

Robert LaBelle
SVUSD Trustee

Dan White
SVUSD Trustee

Jake Finch
Coordinator of Public Relations and Resource Development

Career Technical Education

Includes the display of successful models, techniques and supporting data focused on efforts to prepare students for both career and college, such as linked learning, career pathways, regional occupation programs, career exploration opportunities, etc. in supporting programs that focus on career and technical education.

Sponsored by

Multi-level/Districtwide

Anaheim Innovative Mentoring Experience (AIME)

Anaheim Union HSD

sponsor winner

The goals of the Anaheim Union HSD’s Anaheim Innovative Mentoring Experience (AIME) program are to prepare our students to be college, career and life ready by offering academically challenging college and career pathways that equip them with the 21st-century skills to succeed in an increasingly competitive and diverse global community. AIME provided 8,000-plus total mentoring experiences in four tiers, which included speakers, trips, a mentoring series and internships.

Congratulations

Michael Matsuda
Superintendent

Annemarie Randle-Rejo
Board President

Jaron Fried
Assistant Superintendent, Educational Services

Manuel Colón
Chief Academic Officer

Carlos Hernandez
Director, Curriculum and Instruction

Scott Reindl
Program Administrator, Career Education

MaryJo Cooke
Director, AIME

Patty Hatcher
Program Coordinator, AIME

Amanda Bean
Program Administrator, Curriculum and Instruction

Renae Bryant
Director, English Learner and Multilingual Services

Diana Fujimoto
Curriculum Specialist

Michael Matsuda
Superintendent

Annemarie Randle-Rejo
Board President

Jaron Fried
Assistant Superintendent, Educational Services

Manuel Colón
Chief Academic Officer

Carlos Hernandez
Director, Curriculum and Instruction

Scott Reindl
Program Administrator, Career Education

MaryJo Cooke
Director, AIME

Patty Hatcher
Program Coordinator, AIME

Amanda Bean
Program Administrator, Curriculum and Instruction

Renae Bryant
Director, English Learner and Multilingual Services

Diana Fujimoto
Curriculum Specialist

A mentor and student training with software

Multi-District

Mountain Desert Economic Partnership

Mountain Desert Career Pathways Joint Powers Authority

The Mountain Desert Economic Partnership (MDEP) is facilitated by Mountain Desert Career Pathways, a nine-district consortium focused on aligning school programs to local industry needs. MDEP brings together industry, government, education and community partners in a collaborative, collective-impact approach to building a sustainable culture of high-quality, local employees surrounded by an engaging and attractive community.

Congratulations

Ryan Holman
Superintendent

Christina Behringer
Board President

Trenae Nelson
Superintendent, Apple Valley Unified School District

Jeff Malan
Superintendent, Barstow Unified School District

Cecil Edwards
Superintendent, Baker Valley Unified School District

David Olney
Superintendent, Hesperia Unified School District

Peter Livingston
Superintendent, Lucerne Valley Unified School District

Ted Alejandre
Superintendent, San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools

Jesse Najera
Superintendent, Silver Valley Unified School District

Jairo Arellano
Superintendent, Trona Joint Unified School District

Ron Williams
Superintendent, Victor Valley Union High School District

Matthew Wells
Director, Mountain Desert Career Pathways

Ryan Holman
Superintendent

Christina Behringer
Board President

Trenae Nelson
Superintendent, Apple Valley Unified School District

Jeff Malan
Superintendent, Barstow Unified School District

Cecil Edwards
Superintendent, Baker Valley Unified School District

David Olney
Superintendent, Hesperia Unified School District

Peter Livingston
Superintendent, Lucerne Valley Unified School District

Ted Alejandre
Superintendent, San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools

Jesse Najera
Superintendent, Silver Valley Unified School District

Jairo Arellano
Superintendent, Trona Joint Unified School District

Ron Williams
Superintendent, Victor Valley Union High School District

Matthew Wells
Director, Mountain Desert Career Pathways

Closing the Opportunity Gap through LCAP Implementation

Includes the display of successful models, techniques and supporting data focused on programs that help narrow and close the academic achievement gap for under-performing student groups that have been prioritized in the budgeting process and included in the Local Control and Accountability Plan. Such efforts may include data driven intervention strategies, meaningful disaggregation of student performance data, culturally relevant pedagogy, a focus on integration, course access and professional development focused on closing the gap.

Saddleback Valley USD classroom in session

Jr. High/Middle/Intermediate School

First 20 Days — Supporting Student Success

Saddleback Valley USD, La Paz Intermediate

La Paz Intermediate’s First 20 days — Supporting Student Success program strategically and systematically teaches and monitors social-emotional and academic literacy skills across all content areas. By establishing foundational learning skills in a matter of weeks, not months or years, all students achieve academic success, with significant subgroups experiencing exponential growth. In addition, students transfer these skills and reach their full potential as contributing and compassionate global citizens.

Congratulations

Crystal Turner
Superintendent

Edward Wong
Board President

Jean Walker
Principal

Community Schools through Partnerships and Collaboration

Includes efforts to implement the community school strategy, which is both a place and a set of partnerships between the school, city, county and the community. Characteristics include a shared vision, shared leadership and shared accountability; core educational programming; strong family engagement; expansion of learning opportunities; shared resources and a comprehensive set of integrated services designed to meet the full range of learning and developmental needs of the students.

Sponsored by

Principal

ONE GLENDALE After School Youth Sports team celebrating

Pre-K/K-8

ONE GLENDALE
After School Youth Sports Program

Glendale USD, Cerritos Elementary, Columbus Elementary, Thomas Edison Elementary, Thomas Jefferson Elementary, Horace Mann Elementary, John Marshall Elementary, John Muir Elementary, and Richardson D. White Elementary

sponsor winner

The ONE GLENDALE After School Youth Sports Program is a collaboration between Glendale USD and the City of Glendale with community partnerships. The program provides free after-school co-ed recreational sports (flag football, basketball, soccer and volleyball) and builds positive health, character and academic outcomes for fourth- and fifth-graders in eight Glendale schools.

Congratulations

Vivian Ekchian
Superintendent

Armina Gharpetian
Board President

Multi-District

R.I.S.E. Academy

Trinity COE, Trinity County Community School

CCBE Apple for Excellence Award Winner

R.I.S.E. Academy is a one-of-a-kind comprehensive school serving at-promise students. Our vision is “Changing Lives and Renewing Hope.” We value diversity and recognize that every student has a unique voice, developmental rate and learning modalities. We are committed to serving a population of students who have struggled in the traditional school setting. We believe we can and we will make a difference — a lifelong impact in the lives of these students that will not only make a difference to them personally, but also leave a positive impression on the community as a whole.

Congratulations

Sarah Supahan
Superintendent

Steve Canale
Board President

Fabio Robles
Deputy Superintendent of Schools & Superintendent R.I.S.E. Academy

Steve Hiscock
Teacher/Principal of R.I.S.E. Academy

Sue Kilmer
Teacher Assistant, R.I.S.E. Academy

Bonnie Hammond
Teacher Assistant, R.I.S.E. Academy

Jaime Green
Superintendent Trinity Alps Unified School District

AnnMarie Swanstrom
Superintendent Mountain Valley Unified School District

Daniel Beans
Trinity Alps Unified School District Board President

Angela Riggs
Mountain Valley Unified School District Board President

Sarah Supahan
Superintendent

Steve Canale
Board President

Fabio Robles
Deputy Superintendent of Schools & Superintendent R.I.S.E. Academy

Steve Hiscock
Teacher/Principal of R.I.S.E. Academy

Sue Kilmer
Teacher Assistant, R.I.S.E. Academy

Bonnie Hammond
Teacher Assistant, R.I.S.E. Academy

Jaime Green
Superintendent Trinity Alps Unified School District

AnnMarie Swanstrom
Superintendent Mountain Valley Unified School District

Daniel Beans
Trinity Alps Unified School District Board President

Angela Riggs
Mountain Valley Unified School District Board President

Curriculum and Instruction through the California Standards Implementation

Includes models that utilize interdisciplinary teaching, thematic instruction, learning styles, technology and other innovative or exemplary instructional strategies and integrated programs that will be successful within the lens of the California Standards.

English / Reading / Language Arts

Includes programs and strategies for the effective implementation of California’s English Language Arts standards and framework, with an emphasis on equitable, innovative, engaging and rigorous instruction.

Jr. High/Middle/Intermediate School

The Youth Cinema Project

Brawley ESD, Barbara Worth Junior High School

The Youth Cinema Project facilitates project-based student learning emphasizing communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking through the lens of filmmaking. The program creates lifelong learners through the use of hands-on and real-world experiences. Students that come into the program leave with self-confidence, a greater sense of responsibility, accountability and a new love of learning.

Congratulations

Richard Rundhaug
Superintendent

Kathy Prior
Board President

Armando Padilla
Board Trustee

Amy Quarcelino
Teacher

Richard Rundhaug
Superintendent

Kathy Prior
Board President

Armando Padilla
Board Trustee

Amy Quarcelino
Teacher

Curriculum and Instruction through the California Standards Implementation

Includes models that utilize interdisciplinary teaching, thematic instruction, learning styles, technology and other innovative or exemplary instructional strategies and integrated programs that will be successful within the lens of the California Standards.

Mathematics

Includes programs and strategies for the effective implementation of California’s Common Core State Standards for Mathematics, with an emphasis on equitable, innovative, engaging and rigorous instruction.

An instructor from the Middle School Math Summer Enrichment Program and his teaching materials

Jr. High/Middle/Intermediate School

Middle School Math Summer Enrichment Program (MSMSEP)

Hacienda La Puente USD, Cedarlane Academy, Fairgrove Academy, Grandview College Preparatory, Lassalette School, Newton Middle School, Mesa Robles School, Orange Grove Middle School, Sierra Vista Middle School, Sparks MS, Valinda School of Academics

In support of the district’s vision of ensuring equity, access and expanded learning opportunities, the Instructional Division is proud to provide the Middle School Math Summer Enrichment Program, aimed to enrich and/or accelerate students’ math education. Through this free program offered to all seventh- and eighth-graders, students receive algebra enrichment and Integrated 1 readiness as an accelerated pathway. These courses place students on the path to success, particularly for those who desire careers in math or science fields. Summer 2020 marks the sixth year of implementation.

Congratulations

Alfonso Jimenez
Superintendent

Anthony Duarte
Board President

Joseph Chang
Board Vice President

Judy A. Fancher
Assistant Superintendent, Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment PK-12

Angela H. Lin
Executive Director, Elementary (TK-8)

Helene Cunningham
Director, Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment

Gabriel Ward
Technology TOSA

Christina Skaggs
Science TOSA

Jean Hamabe
Teacher

Brian Mahaffey
Teacher

Alfonso Jimenez
Superintendent

Anthony Duarte
Board President

Joseph Chang
Board Vice President

Judy A. Fancher
Assistant Superintendent, Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment PK-12

Angela H. Lin
Executive Director, Elementary (TK-8)

Helene Cunningham
Director, Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment

Gabriel Ward
Technology TOSA

Christina Skaggs
Science TOSA

Jean Hamabe
Teacher

Brian Mahaffey
Teacher

Curriculum and Instruction through the California Standards Implementation

Includes models that utilize interdisciplinary teaching, thematic instruction, learning styles, technology and other innovative or exemplary instructional strategies and integrated programs that will be successful within the lens of the California Standards.

Visual and Performing Arts

Includes programs and strategies for the effective implementation of California’s Visual and Performing Arts standards and framework, with an emphasis on equitable, innovative, engaging and rigorous instruction.

Students Acting Out A Scene in "The Little Mermaid" On stage

Multi-level/Districtwide

Musical Theater Supporting and Enhancing Academic Excellence

El Monte City SD

Title 1 research shows that students who participate in theater programs are 20 percent more likely to be advanced readers by their 12th-grade year of school. El Monte City School District believes the arts are a critical component to achieving academic excellence. In 2019, we had five schools designated as CA Distinguished Schools, and we attribute much of that success to our inclusion of the arts in our curriculum. Our musical theater program is what we highlighted for this prestigious Golden Bell.

Congratulations

Maribel Garcia
Superintendent

Jennifer Cobian
Board President

Julia Ruedas
Board Vice President

Lisett Mendez
Board Clerk

Beth Rivas
Board Member

David Siegrist
Board Member

Virginia Castro
Assistant Superintendent, Educational Services

Heidi Ragan
Teacher on Special Assignment

Jesse Jackson
Music Teacher

Art Arias
Teacher

Pre-K/K-8

Valencia Learning In and Through the Arts Program

El Rancho USD, Valencia Academy of the Arts

Valencia Academy of the Arts offers an integrated arts curriculum, along with instruction in music, dance and visual arts. Our instructional program combines the rigors of the Common Core State Standards and the visual and performing arts. In 2015, Valencia contracted with the Los Angeles Music Center and provided arts instruction to students, and professional development in arts integration for teachers. Through our efforts, Valencia was recognized as a Top LA County Public School in 2020 for student achievement in English language arts among our Latino youth.

Congratulations

Frances Esparza
Superintendent

Teresa Merino
Board President

Pre-K/K-8

Oakbrook Academy of the Arts Integration

Fairfield-Suisun USD, Oakbrook Academy of the Arts

Oakbrook Academy of the Arts is a TK-8 public school where staff enchants the Common Core district curriculum with arts integration for student academic and social-emotional success. Students use dance, visual arts, theater and music to build confidence, leadership and communication skills as well as enhance academic comprehension. Students practice cooperation, cope with failure and revising, persevere in hard practice, and revel in group celebration of a well-done performance with our community.

Congratulations

Kristin Corey
Superintendent

Judi Honeychurch
Board President

John Silva
Vice President

Joan Gaut
Clerk

David C. Isom
Board Member

Jonathan Richardson
Board Member

Bethany Smith
Board Member

Craig Wilson
Board Member

Justine Turner
Principal

Chantel Martino
Student Board Member

Multi-level/Districtwide

MVUSD Visual and Performing Arts Program

Moreno Valley USD

The Moreno Valley USD Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) program was created in 2015 as an investment for all students. Reviewing research, securing quality leadership and implementing critical skill sets in art education was essential for a solid curriculum foundation. VAPA has dramatically enhanced the learning experiences for over 41 percent of the 32,763 students and successfully survived the COVID-19 pandemic via virtual lessons, performances and exhibits.

Congratulations

Martinrex Kedziora
Superintendent

Marsha Sue Locke
Board President

Darrell Peeden
Board Vice President

Susan Smith
Board Clerk

Jesus Holguin
Board Member

Cleveland Johnson
Board Member

Sue Buster
Director of Professional Development & Digital Learning

Greg Solomon
Coordinator of Visual & Performing Arts

Teacher Showing Off Students' Drawings in Classroom

Multi-level/Districtwide

Horizons Unlimited

Murrieta Valley USD, All Elementary Schools

The Horizons Unlimited arts program focuses on bringing equitable arts opportunities into elementary classrooms, exposing students to a diversity of genres in the arts. Early exposure increases developmental potential and benefits students for the rest of their lives. The program creates a safe space for students to explore their talents and build their confidence under the direction of a professional. The program provides a unique approach to teaching cultural awareness and empathy.

Congratulations

Patrick Kelley
Superintendent

Linda Lunn
Board President

Paul Diffley
Board Member

Ken Dickson
Board Member

Oscar Rivas
Board Member

Kris Thomasian
Board Member

Mary Walters
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services

Faythe Mutchnick-Jayx
Executive Director of Elementary Instruction

Carol Hernandez
Visual and Performing Arts, Coordinator, Murrieta Educational Foundation for the Arts

Early Childhood Education

Includes all programs and initiatives that support developmentally appropriate learning for children five years old or younger, including full-day kindergarten; transitional kindergarten; preschool; and collaborations with cities, counties and other organizations. May include strategies for expanding access to current programs while maintaining quality, for improving alignment between K-12 and early childhood systems and for increased early childhood education teacher training, recruitment and retention.

Young Boys Playing with Toys in Classroom

Pre-K/K-8

Preschool Child Centered Early Intervention and Assessment Teams

Riverside USD, Early Childhood (State Preschool and Head Start)

The Riverside USD Preschool Study Team and Wellness Intervention Team were designed to support our youngest students and their families with their developmental and social-emotional needs. Focusing on wellness and academic interventions, the preschool staff at Riverside USD has partnered with our special education personnel and community mental health professionals to assist families and staff in providing child-centered services and support revolving around social-emotional learning.

Congratulations

David Hansen
Superintendent

Kathy Allavie
Board President

Joseph Nieto
Early Childhood Coordinator

Luz Romero
Early Childhood Services Specialist

Lupe Arellano
Student Health Care Specialist

Shawn Hartmann
Preschool Teacher on Special Assignment

Ivan Campos
Bilingual Speech and Language Pathologist

Sara Pokrajac
Speech and Language Pathologist

Ines Anderson
School Psychologist

Heather Hawks
Schools Program Coordinator, Catholic Charities

Diana Lloyd
LMFT, Riverside University Health System – Behavioral Health

Lynne Craig
Program Coordinator, Riverside University Health System – Public Health

English Learners/ Multiliteracy

Includes programs and strategies that assist English learners in achieving English proficiency and proficiency in other academic subjects, including dual language and multilingual programs. Also includes strategies that support all students in achieving proficiency in English and other languages so that they graduate from high school multilingual and multiliterate.

Teacher Taking Photo of Young Female Student In Front of Artwork

Multi-level/Districtwide

Advocating & Celebrating Bilingual/Multilingual Learners

Santa Clara COE

The Santa Clara COE hosts a month-long celebration in April featuring activities and events that recognizes the cultural contributions of local educational agencies, ensures equity in district policies and supports bi/multilingual language programs. In response, 27 LEAs have adopted at least one board resolution that supports developing academic, multilingual and/or socio-emotional skills for students, impacting over 231,000 students in Santa Clara County.

Congratulations

Mary Ann Dewan
Superintendent

Claudia Rossi
Board President

Anisha Munshi
Assistant Superintendent, Professional Learning & Instructional Support Division and Human Resources Division

Yee Wan
Director, School Climate, Leadership and Instructional Services, Santa Clara County Office of Education

Santa Clara County Office of Education, School Climate, Leadership & Instructional Services Department

Santa Clara County Office of Education Media & Communications Team

Roxane Fuentes
Superintendent, Berryessa Union School District

Norma Rodriguez
Assistant Superintendent, Milpitas Unified School District

Guadalupe Arciga
Parent Leader, Alum Rock Union School District

Iskandar Daoud
Recent Graduate, Santa Clara Unified School District

Edy Mourtos
Superintendent, Luther Burbank School District

Victoria Sorensen
Director of Equity Programs, Morgan Hill Unified School District

Young Children Dressed in Traditional Hispanic Costumes Smiling

Pre-K/K-8

Willmore Language Academy

Westminster SD, Willmore Elementary School

Willmore Language Academy was started in response to the Westminster SD Board’s vision of closing the achievement gap by increasing language acquisition for English learners, and providing all students with 21st-century learning skills. Willmore’s Spanish Dual Language Immersion program includes children as young as 3, building on the research that the best time to learn a second language is under the age of 5. When students begin TK the language of computer coding is added, forming a true multi-language academy.

Congratulations

Cyndi Paik
Superintendent

Frances Nguyen
Board President

Willmore Staff

Willmore Spanish Dual Immersion Teachers

Eva Matthews
Principal, Willmore Language Academy

Michelle Watkins
Executive Director, Specialty School Programs

Beverlee Mathenia
Senior Executive Director, Educational Services

Westminster School District Board of Trustees

Equity and Access

These programs strive to break down barriers that have prevented student access to an equitable education, including those that foster genuine cross-cultural understanding and inclusiveness, strategically target services to students based on their needs, and promote a more equitable distribution of resources. These programs put into action the belief that all students can learn when they have access to high-quality education programs and the supports they need to succeed.

Sponsored by

Professional

Little Girl Wearing Paper Bunny Ears and Drawing in Classroom

Pre-K/K-8

Universal Access Program

Central ESD, Coyote Canyon Elementary

Universal Access at Coyote Canyon has proven to (1) increase academic outcomes for English Language Arts, (2) narrow achievement gaps and (3) provide equity and access. All students get what they need in order to advance their learning! This program is uniquely innovative as it is purposely designed not as a stand-alone intervention but serves as one element of three additional schoolwide systems, including Professional Learning Communities, Learning Talks and teacher-led classroom observations.

Congratulations

Donna Libutti
Superintendent

Joan Weiss
Board President

Kathy Thompson
Board Clerk

Barbara Rich
Board Member

Hugh Jackson
Board Member

Stacy Henry
Board Member

Michelle Dynes
Assistant Supt. Human Resources

Charles Boulden
Principal

Melanie Ruiz
Assistant Principal

High School

College and Career Readiness

Chaffey Joint Union HSD

Our vision, adopted by the Board of Trustees, “All students will graduate ready for college and careers,” demonstrates a shared commitment to prepare students to be contributing citizens of the 21st century. The board helped to create a comprehensive intervention plan that provides individualized attention and support for all students. As a result, thousands of additional students have benefitted by becoming eligible to attend four-year universities as well as developing career-related skills.

Congratulations

Mathew Holton
Superintendent

Arthur Bustamonte
Board President

Shari Megaw
Board Vice-President

Sue Ovitt
Board Clerk

Gil Zendejas
Board Member

John Rhinehart
Board Member

Arlene Avila
Student Board Representative

High School

All-Stars Foster Youth Program

Corona-Norco USD, Eleanor Roosevelt High School

Foster youth are often the “invisible” under-served population, and it has been our mission to help close this invisible achievement gap by making our foster students feel they are a part of a community that cares and is invested in their success. The All-Stars program is a comprehensive academic and social/emotional program serving the needs of today’s foster youth. The program includes academic supports, on-campus programs, mentoring, district and community outreach, higher education planning, resources and building meaningful relationships with this at-risk population.

Congratulations

Michael Lin
Superintendent

Mary Ybarra
Board President

Bill Pollock
Board Vice-President

Elizabeth Marroquin
Board Clerk

Jose Lalas
Board Member

John Zickefoose
Board Member

Samuel Buenrostro
Deputy Superintendent

Milisav Ilic
Administrative Director

Jeremy Goins
Principal, Eleanor Roosevelt

Anita Shirley
Coordinator

Jenna Mendez
Foster Youth Counselor

Annie Havard
Teacher

Pre-K/K-8

College and Career Mentoring Program

Garden Grove USD

The College and Career Mentoring Program provides alumni-led mentoring to the most at-risk sixth-grade students in the district. The intent of the program is to strengthen students’ personal skills specifically around motivation and grit leading to greater academic achievement and college/career readiness. The curriculum and focus is intentionally aligned to the district’s Strategic Plan Goals and is grounded in research around motivation, self-efficacy, mindset and self-regulation.

Congratulations

Gabriela Mafi
Superintendent

Walter Muneton
Board President

Teri Rocco
Board Vice President

Bob Harden
Board Member

Dina Nguyen
Board Member

Lan Q. Nguyen
Board Member

Lorena L. Sanchez
Assistant Superintendent, K-12 Educational Services

Luisa Rogers
Director, English Learner Programs

Melissa Sais
Director, Evaluation and Research

Samantha Baltazar
College Worker

D.D. Johnson Elementary School Teacher Working With Students in Class

Pre-K/K-8

ExCEL – Excellence: A Commitment to Every Learner

Norwalk-La Mirada USD, D.D. Johnston Elementary School

Johnston’s ExCEL – Excellence: A Commitment to Every Learner is more than a program. It was established to strategically target services based on the needs of all. ExCEL provides tiered support in reading using a balanced literacy approach, built through our shift to a collaborative culture with a clear focus on learning and results. ExCEL breaks down barriers for under-represented students, many of whom have now reached and exceeded grade level proficiency, on their journeys towards greatness!

Congratulations

John Lopez
Superintendent

Jude Cazares
Board President

Patricio Vargas
Assistant Superintendent, Educational Services

Michael Gotto
Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources

Rosa Isiah
Director, Elementary Education, Equity, and Access

Angela Togia
D.D. Johnston Elementary Principal

Daniel Calma
D.D. Johnston Elementary 3rd Grade Teacher

Kelly Barnett
D.D. Johnston Elementary Kindergarten Grade Teacher

Tanya Loumakis
D.D. Johnston Elementary Intervention Teacher on Special Assignment

Kathy Perez
D.D. Johnston Elementary 5th Grade Teacher

Nancy Rhodes
K-5 ELA/ELD District Teacher on Special Assignment

Multi-level/Districtwide

SLCUSD Student Senate

San Luis Coastal USD

sponsor winner

The San Luis Coastal USD Student Senate brings together middle school and high school students from a diverse range of cultures, religions, socio-economic backgrounds and gender groups to collect and analyze student data and then set school and district goals that promote student equity. In the three years since its conception, the Student Senate has empowered student voices, created actionable goals based on peer feedback that are incorporated into site and district plans, and assisted the district in taking swift action to address equity issues.

Congratulations

Eric Prater
Superintendent

Ellen Sheffer
Board President

Elementary Students Looking at Text Book In Class

Multi-level/Districtwide

Sanger Learns – Curriculum & Instruction Website

Sanger USD

In August of 2015, Sanger USD’s Curriculum & Instruction team unveiled a new website, Sanger Learns. This website has streamlined the sharing of best practices and has provided clarity to expectations and resources across the district in order to ensure equity and access for all students. During the 2019–20 school year, the received an average of 750 page views per day and allowed the district to maintain equity of instructional opportunities during school closures.

Congratulations

Adela Jones
Superintendent

Peter Filippi
Board President

Nichole Rosales
Curriculum Coordinator

Katie Gault
District Instructional Specialist

Theresa Blanchard
EL Program Specialist

Rachel Groft
District Instructional Specialist

Rhonda Siqueiros
District Instructional Specialist

Thomas Soto
Director of Educational Services

Expanded Learning and Engagement

Includes programs offered during expanded learning time that meet the needs of students and engage them in activities to strengthen their human potential, including athletics, visual and performing arts, enrichment, debate, mock trial and student government.

Young students in Magnolia ESD Summer STEM Academy program working together

Pre-K/K-8

MSD Summer STEM Academy

Magnolia ESD

The Magnolia ESD Summer STEM Academy provides third-graders with four weeks of high-quality academic instruction and hands-on learning in engaging STEM curriculum. Students learn about science concepts and how they impact everyday life through high-interest units of study. The lessons also integrate a range of technology skills. District data and observation have shown that this unique summer program has had a great impact on third-grade students, including higher levels of academic achievement and high levels of motivation and enthusiasm for learning.

Congratulations

Frank Donavan
Superintendent

Barbara Clendineng
Board President

Barbara Quintana
Board Clerk

Connie Martin
Trustee

Gary Shields
Trustee

Nathan Zug
Trustee

Frank Donavan
Superintendent

Barbara Clendineng
Board President

Barbara Quintana
Board Clerk

Connie Martin
Trustee

Gary Shields
Trustee

Nathan Zug
Trustee

Family/ Student/ Community Engagement

Includes programs that encourage or facilitate family involvement in their child’s education, including innovative approaches to outreach and effective involvement of families from diverse communities. Also includes programs in which LEAs incorporate student engagement in site and district/COE decision-making, as well as broader community engagement efforts such as community partnerships.

Azusa USD Parent Advisory Committee Plus meeting in session

Multi-level/Districtwide

Parent Advisory Committee Plus (PAC+)

Azusa USD

Parent Advisory Committee Plus is a stakeholder engagement committee that has evolved into a critical forum for collaborative decision-making. Through authentic engagement driven by transparency, collaborative practices and empowerment/agency growth of all members, PAC+ has evolved into a promising practice shared statewide. PAC+ is a bilingual forum and includes representatives from key stakeholder groups. PAC+ plays a critical role in the development, implementation and monitoring of the LCAP, as well as collaborating with the district on other initiatives and focus areas.

Congratulations

Arturo Ortega
Superintendent

Jeri Bibles-Vogel
Board President

Linda Kaminski
Superintendent (Retired)

Dayna Mitchell
Assistant Superintendent, Education Services

Jennifer Edic Bryant
Director, Metrics & LCAP

Arturo Ortega
Superintendent

Jeri Bibles-Vogel
Board President

Linda Kaminski
Superintendent (Retired)

Dayna Mitchell
Assistant Superintendent, Education Services

Jennifer Edic Bryant
Director, Metrics & LCAP

Professional Development and Teacher Recruitment/ Retention

Includes all professional development programs for staff, including teachers, administrators and classified personnel, focused on improving cultural proficiency. May include beginning teacher support and assessment programs, as well as intern, credentialing and “grow-your-own” programs. Recruitment programs include those that have proven success in hiring and retaining teachers, particularly teachers of color and multilingual educators, in the district or county office of education. Also includes programs and strategies that offer successful strategies to attract and keep teachers in critical shortage areas.

A workshop meeting for the Partnership with Administration and Labor

Multi-level/Districtwide

Partnership with Administration and Labor (PAL) 2 Equity Workshops

ABC USD

The Partnership with Administration and Labor (PAL) 2 was born out of a desire to work together around the contract and to provide professional growth opportunities for employees. Since 2013, over 360 employees have participated in workshops about Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports, trauma informed care and equity and cultural proficiency, to build awareness and agency in working with students and staff, especially with foster, homeless and minority students.

Congratulations

Mary Sieu
Superintendent

Olga Rios
Board President

Rebecca Michel-Macias
President, CSEA Chapter #24

Gina Zietlow
Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources

Cheryl Correia
Secretary III, School Services

Dorothy Garcia
Secretary III, Haskell Middle School

Martha Gardea
Secretary II, Gahr High School

Lourdes Johnson
Budget Technician, Accounting

Karla Kroese
Secretary II, Human Resources

Vanessa Weseman
Personnel Technician, Human Resources

Polette Zepeda
Secretary I, Hawaiian Elementary School

Kester Song
Supervisor, Human Resources

Mary Sieu
Superintendent

Olga Rios
Board President

Rebecca Michel-Macias
President, CSEA Chapter #24

Gina Zietlow
Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources

Cheryl Correia
Secretary III, School Services

Dorothy Garcia
Secretary III, Haskell Middle School

Martha Gardea
Secretary II, Gahr High School

Lourdes Johnson
Budget Technician, Accounting

Karla Kroese
Secretary II, Human Resources

Vanessa Weseman
Personnel Technician, Human Resources

Polette Zepeda
Secretary I, Hawaiian Elementary School

Kester Song
Supervisor, Human Resources

School Culture & Safety

Includes programs that effectively prevent or reduce school violence by promoting a safe and positive school climate, and by teaching students to resolve conflicts. May also include other prevention or intervention strategies such as programs that promote school safety using planning, monitoring and assessment tools; programs that support students’ sense of belonging and engagement in order to increase motivation and achievement; and successful efforts to reduce school suspensions and expulsions.

Sponsored by

Elementary class sitting in a circle on rainbow carpet

Pre-K/K-8

Social-Emotional Learning

Cypress ESD, Clara J. King Elementary School

At Clara King Elementary School, all students learn strategies that promote emotion regulation, peaceful conflict resolution, empathy and responsible decision-making. The curriculum used to support social-emotional learning at King provides age-appropriate lessons for students in transitional kindergarten through sixth grade.

Congratulations

Anne Silavs
Superintendent

Candice Kern
Board President

Jacki Teschke
Principal

Vickie Ohlman
School Office Assistant

Tina Cuellar
Teacher

Cara Patton
Teacher

Jennifer Christofilis
Teacher

Anne Silavs
Superintendent

Candice Kern
Board President

Jacki Teschke
Principal

Vickie Ohlman
School Office Assistant

Tina Cuellar
Teacher

Cara Patton
Teacher

Jennifer Christofilis
Teacher

Firefighters teaching students safety drills in school auditorium

Multi-level/Districtwide

LUSD Safety Committee

Lammersville Joint USD

Public school safety has evolved extensively in the first 20 years of the 21st century. The Lammersville USD board recognized that to meet this challenge, one entity was needed to prioritize the district’s responsibilities into one committee whose sole purpose is to identify, organize, coordinate, study and make recommendations related to all areas of district safety. The Safety Committee is playing a highly impactful role in support of teachers, staff and students by linking safety practices across the district.

Congratulations

Kirk Nicholas
Superintendent

David Pombo
Board President & Safety Committee Member

Matthew Balzarini
Board Member & Safety Committee Member

Sharon Lampel
Board Member

Colin Clements
Board Member

Anne Bonilla
Board Member

Thor Harrison
Associate Superintendent

Kirk Nicholas
Superintendent

David Pombo
Board President & Safety Committee Member

Matthew Balzarini
Board Member & Safety Committee Member

Sharon Lampel
Board Member

Colin Clements
Board Member

Anne Bonilla
Board Member

Thor Harrison
Associate Superintendent

Students attend an outdoor assembly for R.E.A.C.H.

Jr. High/Middle/Intermediate School

R.E.A.C.H. Success for all students

Lowell Joint ESD, Rancho-Starbuck Intermediate School

R.E.A.C.H. — Responsibility, Effort, Attitude, Character and Honor — is a motivational and reward program at Rancho-Starbuck that encourages students to REACH their potential and be the best they can be academically and in their character. The REACH program creates a climate that places an importance on student achievement and rewards and celebrates excellence. With the goal of motivating all students, it is clear that REACHing for success is a way of life at Rancho-Starbuck.

Congratulations

Jim Coombs
Superintendent

Fred Schambeck
Board President

William Hines
Board Vice President

Melissa Salinas
Board Clerk

Staci Shackelford
Member

Karen Shaw
Board Member

Linda Takacs
Principal

Nathan Howe
Assistant Principal

Tamara Irving
Reach Coordinator

Beverly Schambeck
Reach Circle Coordinator

Jim Coombs
Superintendent

Fred Schambeck
Board President

William Hines
Board Vice President

Melissa Salinas
Board Clerk

Staci Shackelford
Member

Karen Shaw
Board Member

Linda Takacs
Principal

Nathan Howe
Assistant Principal

Tamara Irving
Reach Coordinator

Beverly Schambeck
Reach Circle Coordinator

Hope View Elementary class posing for an outdoor group photo

Pre-K/K-8

A Community of Caring

Ocean View SD, Hope View Elementary School

Hope View is committed to being a “Community of Caring” where all students are encouraged to “Hope for the Future and Make a Difference Today!” Students endeavor to incorporate key principles of character into their daily lives and to show empathy for self and others. The integration of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports, social-emotional learning and a guide dog on campus has transformed the school culture into a safe, welcoming environment with rich educational experiences, an inspiration for learning and an involved community of learners.

Congratulations

Carol Hansen
Superintendent

Gina Clayton-Tarvin
Board President

Julianne Hoefer
Assistant Superintendent

Kristi Hickman
Coordinator

Christy Luckey
Principal

Holly Sjogren
Teacher

Grace Sidell
Teacher

Jen Paulino
Teacher

Alana Cooper
PTO President

Rene Bousard
PTO Member

Carol Hansen
Superintendent

Gina Clayton-Tarvin
Board President

Julianne Hoefer
Assistant Superintendent

Kristi Hickman
Coordinator

Christy Luckey
Principal

Holly Sjogren
Teacher

Grace Sidell
Teacher

Jen Paulino
Teacher

Alana Cooper
PTO President

Rene Bousard
PTO Member

Poway USD students creating a poster together

Multi-level/Districtwide

No Place for Hate

Poway USD

sponsor winner

Following multiple hate and race-related incidents at local schools, Poway USD adopted a systemwide, multi-faceted approach to improving school culture and safety by implementing the No Place for Hate initiative in partnership with the Anti-Defamation League, students, community leaders and law enforcement. Under that umbrella, the district addressed issues of bias and bullying, increased threat reporting and empowered students and staff to create safer, more inclusive campuses for all.

Congratulations

Marian Kim-Phelps
Superintendent

Michelle O’Connor-Ratcliff
Board President

Ginger Couvrette
Board Vice President

T.J. Zane
Board Clerk

Kimberley Beatty
Board Member

Darshana Patel
Board Member

Emily Bylsma
Student Board Member

Marian Kim-Phelps
Superintendent

Michelle O’Connor-Ratcliff
Board President

Ginger Couvrette
Board Vice President

T.J. Zane
Board Clerk

Kimberley Beatty
Board Member

Darshana Patel
Board Member

Emily Bylsma
Student Board Member

Special Education

Includes, but is not limited to, programs designed to serve students with special needs, from birth to age 22, such as preschool programs, full-inclusion programs, programs designed to reduce non-public school placements and adult-transition programs.

Sponsored by

Associate

Multi-level/Districtwide

Unified Sports

Bellflower USD, Mayfair Middle High School

sponsor winner

Bellflower USD believes that “positive relationships and strong sense of community connect students to learning,” which is evident in its mission to empower students to “demonstrate respect for themselves and others in a dynamic, diverse, and global society.” Unified Sports is an innovative program that exemplifies this mission as its goal is to promote inclusion and acceptance by providing students opportunities to “train together and play together” in team sports.

Congratulations

Tracy McSparren
Superintendent

Jerry Cleveland
Board President

Stacey Stewart
Assistant Superintendent

Maricela Lopez-Harvin
Program Administrator

Veronica Vallecillo
Program Specialist

Lindsey Hutton
Education Specialist

Khristina Robertson
Adaptive Physical Education Teacher

Anne-Marie Sharp
Adaptive Physical Education Teacher

Unified Sports Students, Teachers, Parents & Community

Student Support Services

Includes programs and strategies that provide students with the supports and services they need to be successful in school. May include on-campus student service centers, parent education programs, foster and homeless youth supports, counseling and intervention programs, peer assistance and nutrition programs, and interventions that reduce chronic absence.

High School

Farm to School

Oxnard Union HSD

The Farm to School Program’s strength and value come from the students. Their voices guide program priorities, which include nutrition, school gardens, locally grown food and leadership. Through grants and donations, the program has established 11 school gardens, provided nutrition and garden education to over 10,500 students, and harvested over 1,500 pounds of food that is used for Nutrition Education, student activities (such as health fairs), culinary programs and in cafeteria meals.

Congratulations

Tom McCoy
Interim Superintendent

Penelope DeLeon
Former Superintendent

Karen Sher
Board President

Gary Davis
Board Member

Beatriz Herrera
Board Member

Wayne Edmonds
Board Member

Steve Hall
Board Member

Marianne Ramos
Director of Instructional Support Services

Stephanie Gillenberg
Director of Nutrition Services

Anna Jackson
Farm To School Coordinator

Anna Litz
Farm Manager and Educator

Ali Villegas
Nutrition Educator

Multi-level/Districtwide

Student Wellness and Support Services

San Bernardino City USD

Student Wellness and Support Services is a multi-tiered, systematic approach to mental health, which spans from proactive and preventative social-emotional competency development within welcoming, safe and nurturing learning environments. The program ranges from early, small-group interventions through school counseling supports, mentoring and skill development to intensive, individualized intervention of mental health therapy through in-district clinical services and community-based partner services.

Congratulations

Harold Vollkommer
Interim Superintendent

Gwendolyn Rodgers
Board President

Lorraine Perez
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services

Rachel Monarrez
Assistant Superintendent of Continuous Improvement

Sandra Rodriguez
Assistant Superintendent of Student Services

Colleen Williams
Director of Student Wellness and Support Services

Multi-District

FOCUS (Focusing on Children Under Stress)

Stanislaus COE

Research shows exposure to violence and trauma can seriously undermine a child’s ability to learn, form relationships and focus in the classroom, potentially leading to school failure, truancy, suspension, expulsion, dropping out or involvement in the juvenile justice system. The Stanislaus COE’s FOCUS (Focusing On Children Under Stress) program was designed with the specific goal of decreasing the effects of a child’s exposure to violence and trauma in order to help them achieve academically, at their highest levels, despite any adverse circumstance(s) they may have endured.

Congratulations

Scott Kuykendall
Superintendent

Alice Pollard
Board President

Birgit Fladager
Stanislaus County District Attorney

Vicki Bauman
Prevention Programs Director III

George Papadopoulos
Stanislaus County Criminal Investigator

Maribel Garcia
Stanislaus County Probation Officer

Yen Tran
Information Systems Administrator/Web Developer

Technology

Includes the use of technology as an instructional tool that supports students in engaging with the curriculum, provides them with the skills to be successful in an increasingly technological world, expands access to educational services and promotes equal access to technology essential to their education (including the internet, media and other resources).

Sponsored by

Multi-District

Digital Innovator Program at NCOE

Napa COE

sponsor winner

The Digital Innovator Program provides educators with high-quality professional learning opportunities that accelerate technology-infused teaching and learning in Napa County classrooms. Through a series of hands-on, in-depth workshops led by some of Napa’s most acclaimed educators, participants become exposed to new skills and tools that they can use to boost engagement, productivity and academic achievement in their own learning environments.

Congratulations

Barbara Nemko
Superintendent

Ann Carr
Board President

Pamela Redmond
Chair, Innovative Learning and Leadership, Touro University

Peg Maddocks
Executive Director, NapaLearns

Mario Piombo
Director of Innovation, NapaLearns

California School Boards Association
3251 Beacon Blvd., West Sacramento, California 95691
www.csba.org | (800) 266-3382

Return to Cover