Golden Bell Awards 2022

Introduction

The CSBA Golden Bell Awards, now in its 43rd 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 all 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 California’s 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, 205 entries in 21 categories were received. Experts from school districts and county offices of education comprised the 49-member judging panel, and a total of 51 Delegates and board members across the state conducted in person or virtual validations.

Sponsors

CSBA Leadership

Dr. Susan Heredia
CSBA President

Susan Markarian
CSBA President-elect

Albert Gonzales
CSBA Vice President

Xilonin Cruz-Gonzalez
CSBA Immediate Past President

Vernon M. Billy
CEO & Executive Director

2022 Program Staff

Rimma Sadyrova
Program Coordinator, Member Services

Naomi Eason, Ed.D.
CSBA Chief, Research and Education Policy Development

Shandi Fraser
Director, Conferences, Member Services

Andy Rolleri
Director, Marketing, Communications

Kerry Macklin
Director, Graphic Design and Branding, Communications

Amanda Moen
Senior Graphic Designer, Communications

Contents

Golden Bell Judges

Anne Staffieri
Escondido Union HSD

Barbara Nemko
Napa COE

Barry Reed
California School Boards Association

Bob Caine
California School Boards Association

Brad Mason
Whittier City ESD

Cheryl Jordan
Milpitas USD

David Gordon
Sacramento COE

David Haglund
Pleasanton USD

David Olney
Hesperia USD

Doreen Osumi
Yuba City USD

Frances Esparza
El Rancho USD

Gabriela Mafi
Garden Grove USD

Gina Potter
San Ysidro ESD

Gordon Amerson
Duarte USD

Gunn Marie Hansen
Orange USD

Heather Armelino
Enterprise ESD

Hilaria Bauer
Alum Rock Union SD

Jeff Roberts
Plumas Lake ESD

Jim Coombs
Lowell Joint ESD

Joanne Jung
Norwalk-La Mirada USD

John Lopez
Norwalk-La Mirada USD

Jose Manzo
Oak Grove SD

Julie Mitchell
Rowland USD

Kelly May-Vollmar
Desert Sands USD

Kirk Nicholas
Lammersville Joint USD

Leisa Winston
Huntington Beach City ESD

Linda de la Torre
San Marino USD

Maria Poulin
Los Angeles COE

Martinrex Kedziora
Moreno Valley USD

Mary Ann Dewan
Santa Clara COE

Mary Sieu
ABC USD

Mauricio Arellano
Redlands USD

Merrill Grant
Fall River Joint USD

Mike Swize
Palm Springs USD

Norma Martinez
Centralia SD

Regina Rossall
Westside Union ESD

Renee Hill
Riverside USD

Richard Barrera
San Diego USD

Robert Taylor
Walnut Valley USD

Samuel Buenrostro
Corona-Norco USD

Samuel Resendez
McFarland USD

Simon Canalez
Brawley Union HSD

Steve Betando
Evergreen ESD

Torie Gibson
Amador County USD

Tracy McSparren
Bellflower USD

Trenton Hansen
Jurupa USD

Wesley Smith
Newport-Mesa USD

Zandra Galvan
Greenfield Union SD

Golden Bell Validators

Region 3
A.C. Ubalde, Vallejo City USD

Region 4
Greg Forest, Wheatland Union HSD

Region 5
Carrie Du Bois, Sequoia Union HSD

Region 6
Darrel Woo, Sacramento City USD
Jackie Wong, Washington USD

Region 7
Thuy DaoJensen, Brentwood Union SD

Region 9
David Kong, Greenfield Union SD

Region 10
Daniel Babshoff, Kerman USD
Kathy Spate, Caruthers USD

Region 11
Darlene Bruno, Hueneme ESD
Debra Cordes, Oxnard USD
Shelly Griffen, Ojai USD
Wendy Sims-Moten, Santa Barbara USD

Region 12
Cathy Mederos, Tulare Joint Union HSD

Region 15
Barbara Schulman, Saddleback Valley USD
Bonnie Castrey, Huntigton Beach Union HSD
Candi Kern, Cypress USD
Carrie Flanders, Brea Olinda USD
Karin Freeman, Placentia-Yorba Linda USD
Marilyn Buchi, Fullerton Joint Union HSD
Susan Henry, Huntigton Beach Union HSD

Region 16
Christina Cameron-Otero, Needles USD
Eric Swanson, Hesperia USD
Karen Gray, Silver Valley USD

Region 17
Debra Schade, Solana Beach ESD
Katrina Young, San Diego Union HSD

Region 18
Deborah Rex, San Jacinto USD
Diahna Garcia-Ruiz, Central Union HSD
Elizabeth Marroquin, Corona-Norco USD
Eric Ditwiler, Jurupa USD
Karen Bradford, Jurupa USD
Mary Ybarra, Corona-Norco USD

Region 20
Bridget Watson, Sunnyvale SD

Region 21
Nick Melvoin, Los Angeles USD

Region 22
Nancy Smith, Palmdale SD
Sharon Vega, Palmdale SD

Region 23
Christina Lucero, Baldwin Park USD
Gary Scott, San Gabriel USD
Eileen Miranda Jimenez, West Covina USD
Florencio Briones, El Monte Union HSD
Lisette Mendez, El Monte City SD
Shant Sahakian, Glendale USD
Steven Llanusa, Claremont USD
Zahir Robb, South Pasadena USD

Region 24
Ann Phillips, Lawndale ESD
Esther Mejia, El Rancho USD
Jaime Lopez, Whittier Union HSD
Jan Baird, South Whittier ESD
Jorge Tirado, Norwalk-La Mirada USD
Margaret Bove-LaMonica, Hermosa Beach City ESD
Yesenia Cuarenta, Paramount USD

Golden Awards Review Committee

Dr. Susan Heredia
Committee Chair
CSBA President
Natomas USD

Darrel Woo
Region 6 Director
Sacramento City USD

Sabrena Rodriguez
Region 11 Director
Ventura USD

Kathy Spate
Region 10 Director
Caruthers USD

Renee Nash
Region 4 Director
Eureka Union SD

Frank Magarino
Region 1 Director
Del Norte County & USD

Accountability/ Assessment

Includes successful approaches, techniques and innovative use of data to assess student achievement and/or program effectiveness on a districtwide basis and for ensuring continuous improvement and accountability. May include the use of summative, formative and performance assessments, including locally developed assessments, as well as surveys and other data sources. Other options include strategies that emphasize systems approaches such as articulation between grade levels, differentiating instruction and equitable placement policies.

Faculty Members from Hermosa Beach City School District

Districtwide

Equity Dashboard

Hermosa Beach City School District, Hermosa View, Hermosa Vista and Hermosa Valley schools

In the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder in 2020, Hermosa Beach City SD explored what it could do to improve diversity, equity and inclusion for its students. The board of education created a resolution, and an Equity Task Force was formed. During 2020–21 school year, the task force created a report of recommendations for the board, which were adopted as the Equity and Inclusion Action Plan. This plan provided 12 objectives ranging from professional development to student intervention. The Equity Dashboard was one of the objectives achieved in the 2021–22 school year. This dashboard provides public access to student achievement and wellness data. It is a unique, public collection of triangulated data to support school improvement with an equity-based lens.

Congratulations

Jason Johnson
Superintendent

Sylvia Gluck
Director of Administrative Services

Maggie Bove-LaMonica
Board President

Jen Cole
Board Member/Committee Member

Eva Asiddao
Student/Committee Member

Jen Cederquist
Teacher/Committee Member

Carey Grange
Parent/Committee Member

Tonikiaa Orange
UCLA Center X Consultant

Jessica Bledsoe
Principal

Hillary Overbeck
Principal

Jason Johnson
Superintendent

Sylvia Gluck
Director of Administrative Services

Maggie Bove-LaMonica
Board President

Jen Cole
Board Member/Committee Member

Eva Asiddao
Student/Committee Member

Jen Cederquist
Teacher/Committee Member

Carey Grange
Parent/Committee Member

Tonikiaa Orange
UCLA Center X Consultant

Jessica Bledsoe
Principal

Hillary Overbeck
Principal

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 and career exploration opportunities in supporting programs that focus on career and technical education.

Districtwide

Brea Olinda USD Career Technical Education Program

Brea Olinda Unified School District

Brea Olinda USD’s CTE pathways provide significant opportunities for students to apply core curriculum in areas of personal interest, reinforce academic competency, and develop the skills and experience necessary to enter the Orange County workforce at or above a living wage. This program provides students with the opportunity to explore careers starting in elementary school, build skills in junior high school, continue their pathways into high school and earn college credit and professional certification.

Congratulations

Brinda Leon
Superintendent

Carrie Flanders
Board President

Paul Ruiz
Board Member

Gail Lyons
Board Member

Deana Miller
Board Member

Nicole Colon
Board Member

Philip D’Agostino
Assistant Superintendent

Richard Champion
Assistant Superintendent

Kelly Kennedy
Principal, Brea Junior High

Joshua Porter
Principal, Brea Olinda High School

Krisitn Risberg
Principal, Brea Canyon High School

Brandi Augenstein
Career Counseling Coordinator

Brinda Leon
Superintendent

Carrie Flanders
Board President

Paul Ruiz
Board Member

Gail Lyons
Board Member

Deana Miller
Board Member

Nicole Colon
Board Member

Philip D’Agostino
Assistant Superintendent

Richard Champion
Assistant Superintendent

Kelly Kennedy
Principal, Brea Junior High

Joshua Porter
Principal, Brea Olinda High School

Krisitn Risberg
Principal, Brea Canyon High School

Brandi Augenstein
Career Counseling Coordinator

Middle/High School

BUSD Arts, Media, & Entertainment Career Pathways Program

Burbank Unified School District, Burbank High, John Burroughs High, Luther Burbank Middle School, John Muir Middle School, Dolores Huerta Middle School

The Burbank Unified Arts, Media, and Entertainment (AME) Career Pathways Program prepares students for success in college and careers in the AME Industry Sector. A collective effort of educators, community colleges and industry partners has resulted in exemplary programming that leads directly to successful job placement and/or college after high school. It is a model program that is highly regarded throughout the state and often held up as a model of what can be accomplished and sustained over time through collective impact.

Congratulations

Matt Hill
Superintendent

Char Tabet
Board President

Peggy Flynn
Arts and CTE Coordinator

Sharon Cuseo
Assistant Superintendent

High School

Ruben S. Ayala High School CTE Engineering Academy Pathway

Chino Valley Unified School District & Baldy View ROP, Ruben S. Ayala High School

Since 2015, Ayala CTE Engineering Academy has grown from one class with 35 students to a four-year Project Lead The Way Engineering Pathway with approximately 190 students per year and 30 CTE completers per annum. The multi-year project-based STEM program has increased female participation in the engineering pathway by 50 percent. Since 2018, 89 percent of all eligible students have received college credit. In the fall of 2022, 96 percent of the program’s seniors are attending college, with the remainder entering trade schools.

Congratulations

Norm Enfield
Superintendent, Chino Valley USD

Christina Gagnier
Board President, Chino Valley USD

Shelley Adams
Superintendent, Baldy View ROP

Rose Bomentre
Assistant Superintendent, Baldy View ROP

Julian Rodriguez
Director, Secondary Curriculum and Instruction, Chino Valley USD

Diana Yarboi
Principal

Yvette Taylor
Assistant Principal

Michael S. Collins
CTE Engineering and Design Instructor

Brinda Leon
Superintendent

Carrie Flanders
Board President

Paul Ruiz
Board Member

Gail Lyons
Board Member

Deana Miller
Board Member

Nicole Colon
Board Member

Philip D’Agostino
Assistant Superintendent

Richard Champion
Assistant Superintendent

Kelly Kennedy
Principal, Brea Junior High

Joshua Porter
Principal, Brea Olinda High School

Krisitn Risberg
Principal, Brea Canyon High School

Brandi Augenstein
Career Counseling Coordinator

High School

Northview High School FAME Academy

Covina-Valley Unified School District, Northview High School

Northview High School FAME Academy students learn how to become nationwide news correspondents while in high school. The FAME Academy program is open to all students as an A-G CTE pathway. The FAME Academy provides students with a world-class education in the fields of digital filmmaking and broadcast journalism while teaching them to find their journalistic voice. The Covina-Valley USD Board of Education is at the forefront of developing CTE programs that prepare students for college and careers. The FAME Academy is a shining example of CTE success.

Congratulations

Rachael Robles
Board President

Sue L. Maulucci
Board Vice President

Gary C. Rodriguez
Board Clerk

Maria M. Caceres
Board Member

Maria E. Cruz
Board Member

Elizabeth Eminhizer
Superintendent

Jonathan Blackmore
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services

Julie Harrison
Director of Curriculum and Instruction

Amy Woods
FAME Academy Teacher

Leo Magallon
Assistant Principal

Rachael Robles
Board President

Sue L. Maulucci
Board Vice President

Gary C. Rodriguez
Board Clerk

Maria M. Caceres
Board Member

Maria E. Cruz
Board Member

Elizabeth Eminhizer
Superintendent

Jonathan Blackmore
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services

Julie Harrison
Director of Curriculum and Instruction

Amy Woods
FAME Academy Teacher

Leo Magallon
Assistant Principal

High School

BEAST – Biology, Engineering, Arts, Science Technology Program

Fullerton Joint Union High School District, Fullerton Union High School

BEAST is an award-winning CTE program dedicated to hands-on STEAM-based learning through the careers of the special effects (SFX) industry. BEAST students link art, science and technical skills through original artworks and animatronics in their Laboratory of Artistic & Industrial Resources (LAIR). With its many industry partners, BEAST allows students to tour theme parks’ backstage and meet award-winning SFX artists. BEAST brings the world of professional SFX career education into the lives of its students.

Congratulations

Steve McLaughlin
Superintendent

Lauren Klatzker
Board President

Laura Rubio
Principal

Scott Hudson
Teacher/Advisor

Jim Pitochelli
Teacher/Advisor

Steve McLaughlin
Superintendent

Lauren Klatzker
Board President

Laura Rubio
Principal

Scott Hudson
Teacher/Advisor

Jim Pitochelli
Teacher/Advisor

a student is supervised while cutting a piece of wood with a power tool

High School

Preparing Students for Lifelong Skills through a Collection of CTE Pathways

Natomas Unified School District, Discovery High School, Inderkum High School, Natomas High School

Recognizing that students will choose different pathways after graduation, Natomas USD has created 10 Career Technical Educational Pathways based on the interest of students and the demand in the job industry. These pathways are designed to increase student’s options after high school and to develop lifelong skills that will support their success as adults.

Congratulations

Chris Evans
Superintendent

Micah Grant
Board President

Angela Herrera
Chief Academic Officer

AJ Giersch
Executive Director

elementary aged students do CTE/ STEAM group work in a Porterville Unified School District class

Districtwide

K-12 CTE/STEAM Districtwide System

Porterville Unified School District

In 2006, Porterville USD embarked on a long-term commitment to prepare every student for success in college and career — not just one or the other. Central to that commitment was creating personalized learning plans for students, which combine college preparatory academics with real-world application. Business and community partners brought authentic projects and work-based learning to schools and defined clear pathways that connect students with postsecondary options and career opportunities. Over the years, a college and career continuum from kindergarten to high school has been continually developed. The continuum offers CTE/STEAM-related experiences that tie high-tech lab research to the world of work and hands-on projects based on student strengths and interests.

Congratulations

Nate Nelson
Superintendent

Lillian Durbin
Board President

Donna Berry
Board Vice President

Juan Figueroa, Jr.
Board Clerk

Felipe A. Martinez
Board Member

Pete Lara, Jr.
Board Member

James Carson
Board Member

Tom Velasquez
Board Member

Martha Stuemky
Assistant Superintendent, Instructional Services

Cynthia Brown
Director of Student Pathways

Nate Nelson
Superintendent

Lillian Durbin
Board President

Donna Berry
Board Vice President

Juan Figueroa, Jr.
Board Clerk

Felipe A. Martinez
Board Member

Pete Lara, Jr.
Board Member

James Carson
Board Member

Tom Velasquez
Board Member

Martha Stuemky
Assistant Superintendent, Instructional Services

Cynthia Brown
Director of Student Pathways

two Poway School District students wearing gloves and hard hats work with power tools in a Career Technical Education class

Districtwide

Career Technical Education: Jump-Starting Pathways to Rewarding Careers

Poway Unified School District

Through its CTE: Jump-Starting Pathways to Rewarding Careers initiative, Poway USD has achieved dramatic results with pathway outcomes, particularly for underrepresented student populations. Strategies at the core of this effort include recognizing and remedying misalignment in courses and pathways, promoting and celebrating pathway completions, increasing opportunities for early college credit, and promoting cross-grade, course-alike planning bringing middle and high school teachers together.

Congratulations

Marian Kim-Phelps
Superintendent

T.J. Zane
Board President

Darshana Patel
Board Vice-President

Michelle O’Connor-Ratcliff
Board Clerk

Ginger Couvrette
Board Member

Cindy Sytsma
Board Member

Prisha Puntambekar
Student Board Member

Carol Osborne
Associate Superintendent

Kathleen Porter
Executive Director

Lynn McConville
Assistant Principal

Marian Kim-Phelps
Superintendent

T.J. Zane
Board President

Darshana Patel
Board Vice-President

Michelle O’Connor-Ratcliff
Board Clerk

Ginger Couvrette
Board Member

Cindy Sytsma
Board Member

Prisha Puntambekar
Student Board Member

Carol Osborne
Associate Superintendent

Kathleen Porter
Executive Director

Lynn McConville
Assistant Principal

Civic Education

Includes comprehensive strategies to engage students in the democratic process; collaborations with civic organizations to advance civic education and/or programs; and opportunities for hands-on civic engagement experiences, including school governance and participatory action research.

Ramona Elementary Staff Holding a their "California Democracy School"

Elementary School

The Ramona Civics Education Program

Bellflower Unified School District, Ramona Elementary School

Ramona scholars are envisioned as active members of society, fully prepared to engage in their civic duties. This led to the Ramona Civic Education Program, which provides scholars with the opportunity to engage in a yearlong civic inquiry based on a compelling question that is investigated, researched and debated, culminating in a policy proposal to bring about positive change in the school or community.

Congratulations

Renita Armstrong
Board President

Tracy McSparren
Former Superintendent

Arlene Whitney
Principal

Dr. William Avila
Assistant Superintendent,
Educational Services

Bonnie Carter
Assistant Superintendent,
Instruction and Student Support

Sulema Holguin
Associate Superintendent,
Business and Personnel Services

Renita Armstrong
Board President

Tracy McSparren
Former Superintendent

Arlene Whitney
Principal

Dr. William Avila
Assistant Superintendent,
Educational Services

Bonnie Carter
Assistant Superintendent,
Instruction and Student Support

Sulema Holguin
Associate Superintendent,
Business and Personnel Services

Kids working in a group on a project about the word "sacrifice"

Elementary school/districtwide

Medal of Honor Character Development Program: Elementary Resources

Simi Valley Unified School District

After seeing a missing piece to a popular character education program, elementary teachers from Simi Valley USD took the initiative to write elementary-based curriculum for the Medal of Honor Society, which is available for use, free of charge, throughout the country. Before that, the Medal of Honor Character Development program was open for middle and high school classrooms but was not age-appropriate for our youngest learners. All K-12 students now benefit from this program.

Congratulations

Hani Youssef
Superintendent

Sofya Bagdasaryan
Board President

Climate Change Innovation

Includes programs that address climate justice initiatives and partnerships that promote awareness of the effects of global climate change and engage students in creative solutions. Includes areas of school facilities and operations, resource conservation and energy efficiency, as well as student-centered curricula that promotes an understanding and action on climate change and climate justice.

Districtwide

Farm Lab

Encinitas Union School District

Through a visionary, green lens, Encinitas Union SD leadership transformed a 10-acre dirt lot into Farm Lab. The project expanded farm-to-school efforts and boasts the first regenerative organic farm owned by a school district. It is also home of the award-winning DREAMS satellite sustainability campus (Design, Research, Engineering, Art, Math and Science) that provides innovative, project- and place-based environmental education to all 5,000 of the district’s K-6 students.

Congratulations

Andree Grey
Superintendent

Marla Strich
Board President

Emily Andrade
Board Member

Marlon Taylor
Board Member

Jodie Williams
Board Member

Raquel Pfeifer
Board Member

Amy Illingworth
Assistant Superintendent,
Educational Services

Julie Burton
Farm Lab Coordinator

Tim Baird
Retired Superintendent

Nina Nelson
Lead Teacher

Ian Schimmelfennig
Lead Farmer

Andree Grey
Superintendent

Marla Strich
Board President

Emily Andrade
Board Member

Marlon Taylor
Board Member

Jodie Williams
Board Member

Raquel Pfeifer
Board Member

Amy Illingworth
Assistant Superintendent,
Educational Services

Julie Burton
Farm Lab Coordinator

Tim Baird
Retired Superintendent

Nina Nelson
Lead Teacher

Ian Schimmelfennig
Lead Farmer

Sponsored by

Students working outside in enclosed garden

Districtwide

Rialto STEM CARES

(Science, Technology, Engineering & Math, Cultivating Active Responsible Environmental Stewards)

Rialto Unified School District

Students in Rialto STEM CARES are volunteers, advocates and activists, raising awareness and taking action on climate-related challenges. This program establishes climate change innovation through environment-based learning experiences that address climate justice, promote awareness of the effects of global climate change in our community, and engage students in creative solutions.

Congratulations

Cuauhtémoc Avila
Superintendent

Edgar Montes
Board President

Stephanie E. Lewis
Board Vice President

Nancy O’Kelley
Board Clerk

Joseph W. Martinez
Board Member

Dina Walker
Board Member

Patricia Chavez
Education Services, Lead Innovation Agent

Diane Romo
Business Services, Lead Agent

Edward D’Souza
Education Services, Lead Academic Agent

Juanita Chan
Education Services, Science and Career Programs Agent

Cuauhtémoc Avila
Superintendent

Edgar Montes
Board President

Stephanie E. Lewis
Board Vice President

Nancy O’Kelley
Board Clerk

Joseph W. Martinez
Board Member

Dina Walker
Board Member

Patricia Chavez
Education Services, Lead Innovation Agent

Diane Romo
Business Services, Lead Agent

Edward D’Souza
Education Services, Lead Academic Agent

Juanita Chan
Education Services, Science and Career Programs Agent

Closing the Opportunity Gap

Includes the display of successful models, techniques and supporting data focused on programs that increase access to a rich and rigorous curriculum for student groups prioritized in the LCAP, with the goal of improving student outcomes and reducing achievement gaps. Such efforts may include data-driven intervention strategies, meaningful disaggregation of student performance data and culturally relevant pedagogy focused on closing opportunity gaps.

Districtwide

Santa Ana USD Speech and Debate

Santa Ana Unified School District

The Santa Ana USD Speech and Debate program is both inspirational and transformative. The program does more than develop verbal skills in children; it develops how each child feels about themselves. Empowerment comes from the disciplined work plan participants outline in their career as a Santa Ana USD Speech and Debate competitor. Winning three elementary state titles and six national middle and high school championships has inspired youth to feel connected and a part of something much bigger than themselves.

Congratulations

Sal Tinajero
Communications Specialist

Jerry Almendarez
Superintendent

Rigo Rodriguez
Board President

Celeste Migliaccio
Director of Secondary
Student Achievement

Emily Benavides
Certificated Learning and
Achievement Specialist

Leonor Plaza
Department Specialist

Sal Tinajero
Communications Specialist

Jerry Almendarez
Superintendent

Rigo Rodriguez
Board President

Celeste Migliaccio
Director of Secondary Student Achievement

Emily Benavides
Certificated Learning and Achievement Specialist

Leonor Plaza
Department Specialist

Districtwide

Multi-Tiered System of Supports

Twin Rivers Unified School District

Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in Twin Rivers USD is a K-12 systematic approach to providing equitable supports to all students, staff and families. MTSS provides interventions and resources to all students in order for them to be successful, while also addressing the needs of staff, families and administrators as they act as teams around the children that they support. These supports range from social-emotional learning to academic and behavioral domains.

Congratulations

Michelle Rivas
Board President

Steve Martinez
Superintendent

Lori Grace
Associate Superintendent

Cynthia Andrews
Executive Director, K–8 and
Charter Schools

Christine Flok
Coordinator of MTSS and Interventions

Carrie Davis
MTSS Intervention Specialist

Michelle Rivas
Board President

Steve Martinez
Superintendent

Lori Grace
Associate Superintendent

Cynthia Andrews
Executive Director, K–8 and Charter Schools

Christine Flok
Coordinator of MTSS and Interventions

Carrie Davis
MTSS Intervention Specialist

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 students.

Districtwide

Education through Imagination: Redlands USD Partners with Garner Holt Education for STEAM and Innovation

Redlands Unified School District

Redlands USD is the first K–12 institution in the country to partner with Garner Holt to form the first-ever AniMakerspace learning environment. Garner Holt Education is a miniature version of Garner Holt Productions, the world’s largest producer of theme park animatronics. Students experience making, tinkering, collaborative learning, career exploration and invention. This space opens a world of tasks and skills previously available only to experts.

Congratulations

Mauricio Arellano
Superintendent

Jim O’Neill
Board President

Ken Wagner
Assistant Superintendent

Ryan Rainbolt
President, Garner Holt Education through Imagination

Rebecca Acosta
Principal, Franklin Elementary

Estella Patel
Principal, Victoria Elementary

Kimberly Lium
Principal, Beattie Middle School

Wes Cullen
Principal, Clement Middle School

Danielle Day
Innovation Teacher, Franklin Elementary

Karen Burk
Teacher, Innovation Victoria Elementary

Chris Hunt
Teacher, Innovation Beattie Middle School

Michael Hettrick
Innovation Teacher, Clement Middle School

Mauricio Arellano
Superintendent

Jim O’Neill
Board President

Ken Wagner
Assistant Superintendent

Ryan Rainbolt
President, Garner Holt Education through Imagination

Rebecca Acosta
Principal, Franklin Elementary

Estella Patel
Principal, Victoria Elementary

Kimberly Lium
Principal, Beattie Middle School

Wes Cullen
Principal, Clement Middle School

Danielle Day
Innovation Teacher, Franklin Elementary

Karen Burk
Teacher, Innovation Victoria Elementary

Chris Hunt
Teacher, Innovation Beattie Middle School

Michael Hettrick
Innovation Teacher, Clement Middle School

Curriculum and Instruction through CA Standards Implementation —
Ethnic Studies

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

High School

Ethnic Studies

Coachella Valley Unified School District, Coachella Valley High School, Desert Mirage High School, West Shores High School

Coachella Valley USD Ethnic Studies program engages students in a critically rigorous academic discourse that challenges repressive hegemonic constructs in order to examine their own standing in a highly globalized world. This allows students to build collective power and transform their community to become critically conscious and reimagine a more just society. Ethnic studies is much more than a legal mandate. It is an opportunity to create a social justice agenda that honors and advances the ethnic heritage, legacies and contributions made by Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC).

Congratulations

Blanca Hall
Board President

Adonis Galarza-Toledo
Board Vice President

Joey Acuna
Board Member

Luis Valentino
Superintendent

Josie Paredes
Assistant Superintendent Educational Services

Elizabeth Sotelo
Principal

John Gonzalez
Teacher

Luis Pinedo
Teacher

Alfonso Taboada
Teacher

Wilson Quintana
Teacher

Blanca Hall
Board President

Adonis Galarza-Toledo
Board Vice President

Joey Acuna
Board Member

Luis Valentino
Superintendent

Josie Paredes
Assistant Superintendent Educational Services

Elizabeth Sotelo
Principal

John Gonzalez
Teacher

Luis Pinedo
Teacher

Alfonso Taboada
Teacher

Wilson Quintana
Teacher

Curriculum and Instruction through CA Standards Implementation —
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.

High School

Mathematics

Marysville Joint Unified School District, Marysville Charter Academy for the Arts

Marysville Charter Academy for the Arts set out to determine a path to success when it comes to math proficiency. There were two main goals when developing the math department program. The first goal was to increase proficiency levels in the annual CAASPP testing, and the second goal was to reduce the number of D’s and F’s students were receiving. The math interventions provide a safety net for all students. With this approach, the belief that all students can achieve in math is reality.

Congratulations

Fal Asrani
Superintendent

Randy Davis
Board President

James Lohman
Principal

Todd Devlaming
Math Teacher

Dallas McBride
Math Teacher

Chor Yang
Math Teacher

George Land
Math Teacher

Fal Asrani
Superintendent

Randy Davis
Board President

James Lohman
Principal

Todd Devlaming
Math Teacher

Dallas McBride
Math Teacher

Chor Yang
Math Teacher

George Land
Math Teacher

Sponsored by

Curriculum and Instruction through CA Standards Implementation — STEM/STEAM

Includes programs and strategies that support the teaching and learning of content in science, technology (including computer science), engineering and mathematics, with an emphasis on equitable, innovative, engaging and rigorous instruction. May also include approaches that integrate STEM content with the arts.

A landscape photograph of BP STEM Academy (Baldwin Park Unified School District) students at a robotics world championship event

High School

Birth of a STEM Academy

Baldwin Park Unified School District, BP STEM Academy

The creation, development and implementation of the BP STEM Academy provides the necessary framework for systemic change to a community traditionally underrepresented in STEM education. Engineering, biomedicine and computer science instruction have been brought to life in the classroom in a hands-on collaborative environment. BP STEM Academy has removed barriers to access by creating an all-inclusive atmosphere that encourages all students to get active in STEM.

Congratulations

Betsabel Lara
Board President

Diana E. Miranda-Dzib
Board Clerk/Vice President

Santos Hernandez, Jr.
Board Member

Christina Lucero
Board Member

Deanna C. Robles
Board Member

Froilan N. Mendoza
Superintendent

Angela A. Salazar
Assistant Superintendent,
Student Achievement

Margie Clark
Director of Student Achievement

Mike Rust
Principal BP STEM Academy

Tom Lau
Department Chair Science/STEM and
Lead Robotics Coach

Betsabel Lara
Board President

Diana E. Miranda-Dzib
Board Clerk/Vice President

Santos Hernandez, Jr.
Board Member

Christina Lucero
Board Member

Deanna C. Robles
Board Member

Froilan N. Mendoza
Superintendent

Angela A. Salazar
Assistant Superintendent,
Student Achievement

Margie Clark
Director of Student Achievement

Mike Rust
Principal BP STEM Academy

Tom Lau
Department Chair Science/STEM and
Lead Robotics Coach

Curriculum and Instruction through CA Standards Implementation — 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 participate in the Honors Musical performance at the Fox after coaching with Broadway actors

High School/Districtwide

Honors Musical and Arts Experience

Riverside Unified School District

Riverside USD’s Honors Musical and Arts Experience provides extensive training to prepare students to perform in a fully produced, professional-level musical, and guides students through the preparations of a digital portfolio for future arts college and career auditions. With world-class mentorship and job shadowing, student actors, dancers, singers, musicians, composers and theater techs engage in an extraordinary learning environment to prepare for a future in the arts.

Congratulations

Renee Hill
Superintendent

Brent Lee
Board President

Kathy Allavie
Board Member

Patricia Lock Dawson
Former Board Member/Riverside Mayor

Ryan Turley
Live Nation

Cynthia Wright
Riverside Fox Foundation

Lauri Byers
Riverside Educational Enrichment Foundation President

Dan Sosa
Assistant Superintendent

Annemarie Guzy
Arts Specialist

Michelle Grotness
Honors Musical Director

Brenda Perez
Arts Administrative Assistant

Chris MarkerMorse
Theater Teacher

Renee Hill
Superintendent

Brent Lee
Board President

Kathy Allavie
Board Member

Patricia Lock Dawson
Former Board Member/Riverside Mayor

Ryan Turley
Live Nation

Cynthia Wright
Riverside Fox Foundation

Lauri Byers
Riverside Educational Enrichment Foundation President

Dan Sosa
Assistant Superintendent

Annemarie Guzy
Arts Specialist

Michelle Grotness
Honors Musical Director

Brenda Perez
Arts Administrative Assistant

Chris MarkerMorse
Theater Teacher

Early Childhood Education

Includes all programs and initiatives that support developmentally appropriate learning for children 5 years old or younger, including full-day kindergarten, transitional kindergarten and 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.

Early Learning

Early Learning Center

Menlo Park City School District, Early Learning Center

The Early Learning Center nurtures young children’s curiosity, sense of wonder, belonging and deep engagement with their world. A unique program in partnership with Menlo Park City SD, the ELC serves children from diverse socioeconomic and family backgrounds, bringing young learners together to ensure they enter kindergarten ready to engage, achieve and thrive. In four years, the ELC has grown from 40 to 100 children and has incorporated Spanish immersion and inclusion programming.

Congratulations

Erik Burmeister
Superintendent

Kristen Gracia
Assistant Superintendent

Jammie Behrendt
Assistant Superintendent

Scott Saywell
Board President

David Ackerman
Board Member

Terry Thygesen
Former Board Member

Chana Stewart
ELC Director

Jessica Mihaly
Founding ELC Director

Lisa Walton
Heritage Oak Children’s Center Coordinator

ELC Teachers and Staff

Erik Burmeister
Superintendent

Kristen Gracia
Assistant Superintendent

Jammie Behrendt
Assistant Superintendent

Scott Saywell
Board President

David Ackerman
Board Member

Terry Thygesen
Former Board Member

Chana Stewart
ELC Director

Jessica Mihaly
Founding ELC Director

Lisa Walton
Heritage Oak Children’s Center Coordinator

ELC Teachers and Staff

English Learners/
Biliteracy

Includes programs and strategies that assist English learners in achieving proficiency in English and in other academic subjects, including dual language immersion, developmental/maintenance language programs and heritage language programs. Includes strategies that support all students in achieving proficiency in written and spoken English and other languages so that they graduate from high school bilingual and biliterate.

English Learner students writing on a piece of paper

Districtwide

Saturday Language Academy (SALA)

Anaheim Union High School District

The Anaheim Union HSD Saturday Language Academy (SALA) was created three years ago as a part of the board’s vision and Local Control and Accountability Plan goals to increase language acquisition for English learners, biliteracy, and college, career and life preparedness. SALA is a culturally and linguistically sustaining teaching and learning program established to meet the needs of the growing numbers of newcomer students to this country speaking different languages. The academy is significant because it helps scholars explore who they are and how to become part of their new communities, without giving up their identity and culture, while integrating Youth Participatory Action Research. Three years of data reflects how this program positively affected students and has led to replication in other districts.

Congratulations

Michael Matsuda
Superintendent

Al Jabbar
Board President

Jaron Fried
Assistant Superintendent Educational Services

Robert Saldivar
Executive Director, Educational Services

Renae Bryant
Director, Plurilingual Services

Joe Saldana
Program Administrator, Student Services

Diana Fujimoto
Coordinator, Professional Learning

Ferran Rodriguez-Valls
Professor, California State University, Fullerton

Alison Dover
Professor, California State University, Fullerton

Vy Hoang
Plurilingual Services Curriculum Specialist

Robert Saldivar
Executive Director, Educational Services

Paola Rosenberg
Kennedy High School Teacher Leader

Juan Garcia
Anaheim High School Teacher Leader

Michael Matsuda
Superintendent

Al Jabbar
Board President

Jaron Fried
Assistant Superintendent Educational Services

Robert Saldivar
Executive Director, Educational Services

Renae Bryant
Director, Plurilingual Services

Joe Saldana
Program Administrator, Student Services

Diana Fujimoto
Coordinator, Professional Learning

Ferran Rodriguez-Valls
Professor, California State University, Fullerton

Alison Dover
Professor, California State University, Fullerton

Vy Hoang
Plurilingual Services Curriculum Specialist

Robert Saldivar
Executive Director, Educational Services

Paola Rosenberg
Kennedy High School Teacher Leader

Juan Garcia
Anaheim High School Teacher Leader

Kids from the Dual Immersion Program holding certificates

Multi-Level

CUSD Dual Language Immersion Program

Capistrano Unified School District

Since 1992, Capistrano USD has proudly promoted the importance of multilingualism through its preschool through grade 12 language immersion programs in Spanish and Mandarin. As one of the oldest and most comprehensive language immersion programs in the county and the state, goals of the program are steadily focused on bilingualism, biliteracy, academic achievement and sociocultural competence. While the program carries significant benefits to the academic and linguistic enrichment of students, its true legacy is the lifelong passion for languages and culture that students take with them long after program completion.

Congratulations

Kirsten M. Vital Brulte
Superintendent

Martha McNicholas
Board President

Greg Merwin
Associate Superintendent,
Education and Support Services

Cary Johnson
Assistant Superintendent,
Education and Support Services

Uma Mainprize
Mandarin Immersion Program Teacher, Bergeson Elementary

Nicole Loh
Mandarin Immersion Program Teacher, Newhart Middle School

Kristen Nelson
Principal, RH Dana Elementary School

Maria Cristina Barrosa
Principal, Las Palmas Elementary School

Elizabeth Lewis
TWI Teacher, Newhart Middle School

Catherine Thompson
Principal, Marco Forster Middle School

Marlen Tong
TWI Teacher and LI Site Coordinator, San Juan Hills High School

Nic Dewald
TWI Teacher and LI Site Coordinator, San Clemente Hight School

Kirsten M. Vital Brulte
Superintendent

Martha McNicholas
Board President

Greg Merwin
Associate Superintendent,
Education and Support Services

Cary Johnson
Assistant Superintendent,
Education and Support Services

Uma Mainprize
Mandarin Immersion Program Teacher, Bergeson Elementary

Nicole Loh
Mandarin Immersion Program Teacher, Newhart Middle School

Kristen Nelson
Principal, RH Dana Elementary School

Maria Cristina Barrosa
Principal, Las Palmas Elementary School

Elizabeth Lewis
TWI Teacher, Newhart Middle School

Catherine Thompson
Principal, Marco Forster Middle School

Marlen Tong
TWI Teacher and LI Site Coordinator, San Juan Hills High School

Nic Dewald
TWI Teacher and LI Site Coordinator, San Clemente Hight School

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.

High School

College Connect

Rowland Unified School District, Nogales High, Rowland High and Santana High schools

College Connect removes barriers and provides students who did not see college as an option with personalized, differentiated, individual support to successfully navigate the college process. Rowland Unified supports its most vulnerable students with exploring different colleges, applying for college and obtaining financial aid. Most important, College Connect dismantles the myths and stereotypes of who can go to college and empowers students to know they are capable. Students from College Connect have been accepted and attend Harvard, UCLA and many other four-year public and private colleges.

Congratulations

Julie Mitchell
Superintendent

Donna Freedman
Board President

Miriam Kim
Director

Ricardo Ramirez
College Liaison

Valerie Varela
Team Member

Yvette Martinez
Team Member

Myra Galaviz
Team Member

Marlo Moreno
Team Member

Jake Magnant
Team Member

Julie Mitchell
Superintendent

Donna Freedman
Board President

Miriam Kim
Director

Ricardo Ramirez
College Liaison

Valerie Varela
Team Member

Yvette Martinez
Team Member

Myra Galaviz
Team Member

Marlo Moreno
Team Member

Jake Magnant
Team Member

Sponsored by

Bronze

Valle Lindo School District students involved in a music performance

Elementary/Middle School

All Aboard: Equity and Access in Action

Valle Lindo School District, New Temple Elementary and Dean L. Shively Middle schools

All Aboard: Equity and Access in Action fosters an environment where all students are welcomed, valued, affirmed, and college and career ready. The program provides ongoing districtwide professional development to aid teachers and staff in meeting the needs of every student. Through All Aboard, individuals have learned to embrace and celebrate differences while fostering a sense of community.

Congratulations

Veronica Lauria
Board President

Rey Soto
Vice President

Larry Rodriguez
Clerk

Rudy Martinez
Board Member

Veronica Castillo
Board Member

Elizabeth Evans
Superintendent

Ryan Bonde
New Temple Principal

Daniela Perez
Dean L. Shively Principal

Emily Guerra
Dean

Rosio Canchola
CSEA VLSD President

Veronica Lauria
Board President

Rey Soto
Vice President

Larry Rodriguez
Clerk

Rudy Martinez
Board Member

Veronica Castillo
Board Member

Elizabeth Evans
Superintendent

Ryan Bonde
New Temple Principal

Daniela Perez
Dean L. Shively Principal

Emily Guerra
Dean

Rosio Canchola
CSEA VLSD President

Expanded
Learning and Opportunities

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, student government, before- and after-school programming, summer programming and independent study.

Students dancing traditional folklore dances

Districtwide

Extended Learning Program

Alisal Union School District

The Extended Learning Program of the Alisal Union SD provides underprivileged youth with a variety of enriching experiences beyond the regular school day, focusing on developing the whole child. Designed to build self-esteem, parent involvement and a positive outlook towards school to foster student achievement, activities range from STEM academies to sports to performing arts that would not be accessible to students otherwise due to limited resources.

Congratulations

José Antonio Jiménez
Board President

Guadalupe Gilpas Barrera
Board Vice President

Fernando Mercado
Board Clerk

Leticia García
Board Member

Robert Ocampo
Board Member

Jim Koenig
Superintendent

Rosa Carranza
Program Manager

Alicia Fletcher
Former Program Manager

Rosario Delgadillo
Foklórico Program Assistant

Ramón Silva
Tonatiuh, Danzantes del Quinto Sol

Joshua Alfaro
Alisal Community Arts Network

Daniel Algayz
Alisal Community Arts Network

Anthony Santos
Sports Program Assistant

José Antonio Jiménez
Board President

Guadalupe Gilpas Barrera
Board Vice President

Fernando Mercado
Board Clerk

Leticia García
Board Member

Robert Ocampo
Board Member

Jim Koenig
Superintendent

Rosa Carranza
Program Manager

Alicia Fletcher
Former Program Manager

Rosario Delgadillo
Foklórico Program Assistant

Ramón Silva
Tonatiuh, Danzantes del Quinto Sol

Joshua Alfaro
Alisal Community Arts Network

Daniel Algayz
Alisal Community Arts Network

Anthony Santos
Sports Program Assistant

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.

a masked woman and young man sit in chairs during a discussion

countywide

Silicon Valley Reads

Santa Clara County Office of Education

Since 2003, Santa Clara COE has co-chaired Silicon Valley Reads in collaboration with the Santa Clara County Library District and San José Public Library. This community engagement program encourages readers to explore common ideas around featured books and an annual theme. It promotes literacy, fosters an appreciation of books and brings the community together, encouraging thousands of students and families to read collectively, participate in events and discuss topics.

Congratulations

Mary Ann Dewan, Ph.D
Superintendent

Peter Ortiz
Board President

Grace Mah
Board Member

Allison Book-Arango
Director of Grants, Partnerships, and Operations

Lonni Gause
Educator Resource Center Technical Specialist

Barb Flores
CCLA Assistant Director

Michael Bromberg
Graphic Designer

Kelly Wylie
Creative Impact Director

Abby Almerido
Coordinator of Workforce Development and Organizational Culture

Mary Ann Dewan, Ph.D
Superintendent

Peter Ortiz
Board President

Grace Mah
Board Member

Allison Book-Arango
Director of Grants, Partnerships, and Operations

Lonni Gause
Educator Resource Center Technical Specialist

Barb Flores
CCLA Assistant Director

Michael Bromberg
Graphic Designer

Kelly Wylie
Creative Impact Director

Abby Almerido
Coordinator of Workforce Development and Organizational Culture

Districtwide

Family Engagement Program

Victor Valley Union High School District

The Family Engagement Program of the Victor Valley Union HSD is connecting with families and making a difference in the community. Recognizing the importance of family engagement in student outcomes, the VVUHSD Board of Education established the program in 2016, hiring family engagement liaisons at seven school sites and adding a dedicated director of Student Services position. The team has undertaken many engagement and outreach actions over the past several years, with tangible results including improved graduation rates and lower dropout rates.

Congratulations

Carl J. Coles
Superintendent

Joshua Garcia
Board President

Michael Williford
Director of Student Services

Yessika Barrientos
Family Engagement Liaison

Donovan Botelho
Family Engagement Liaison

Veronica Ginorio
Family Engagement Liaison

Nancy Martinez
Family Engagement Liaison

Mari Mercado
Family Engagement Liaison

Latonya Myers
Family Engagement Liaison

Ana Parrilla-Hernandez
Family Engagement Liaison

Cristionna Pitts
Family Engagement Liaison

Carl J. Coles
Superintendent

Joshua Garcia
Board President

Michael Williford
Director of Student Services

Yessika Barrientos
Family Engagement Liaison

Donovan Botelho
Family Engagement Liaison

Veronica Ginorio
Family Engagement Liaison

Nancy Martinez
Family Engagement Liaison

Mari Mercado
Family Engagement Liaison

Latonya Myers
Family Engagement Liaison

Ana Parrilla-Hernandez
Family Engagement Liaison

Cristionna Pitts
Family Engagement Liaison

Veronica Ginorio
Family Engagement Liaison

Sponsored by

Districtwide

COVID Vaccination Education, Outreach and Availability

Wilsona School District

Wilsona SD provided comprehensive outreach to the entire school community during COVID, to educate about the virus and connect families to resources. The district actively pursued partnerships to provide regular COVID testing and vaccine clinics that were open to the public, and committed resources to manage the large turnouts. Due to the relentless commitment, communication efforts and community partnerships, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health reported that Wlisona’s geographical location had the highest percentage of vaccinated youth in the county.

Congratulations

Susan Andreas-Bervel
Superintendent

Kathy Harris
Board President

Robert Harris
Board Vice-President

Anne Misicka
Board Clerk

Vladimir Gomez
Board Trustee

Victoria Green
Board Trustee

Debbie Lopez
Chief Academic Officer

Darrin Davis
Chief Business Official

Chelsey Urban
Executive Assistant

Patricia Crook
Data Systems Secretary

Lucy Perez
Educational Services Secretary

Yojayra Lopez
District Parent Liaison

Susan Andreas-Bervel
Superintendent

Kathy Harris
Board President

Robert Harris
Board Vice-President

Anne Misicka
Board Clerk

Vladimir Gomez
Board Trustee

Victoria Green
Board Trustee

Debbie Lopez
Chief Academic Officer

Darrin Davis
Chief Business Official

Chelsey Urban
Executive Assistant

Patricia Crook
Data Systems Secretary

Lucy Perez
Educational Services Secretary

Yojayra Lopez
District Parent Liaison

Innovation in a Time of Crises

Includes programs and services created in response to a public health emergency, natural disaster or other significant disruptions to learning. Programs and services might include, but are not limited to, strategies to provide opportunities to access the curriculum remotely, learning hubs, access to mental health and trauma services for students and staff, responsive resource distribution, public health and safety measures, and effective communication and family outreach.

High school

Dream Resource Center

Alhambra Unified School District, Alhambra High School

The Alhambra High School Dream Center is an inclusive, student-centered safe space that grew out of the work of two clubs: VISA and IDEAS. Both clubs champion our recent immigrant and undocumented communities through leadership, advocacy and support. The anti-immigrant climate unleashed during the 2016 election fueled an urgency to create a “Dream Resource Center” haven for the district’s immigrant community for social-emotional, academic and legal assistance. To date, over 25,000 students have signed into the center.

Congratulations

Denise Jaramillo
Superintendent

Marcia Wilson
Board President

Kaysa Moreno
Board Vice President

Joanne Russell-Chavez
Board Clerk

Robert L. Gin
Board Member

Kenneth Tang
Board Member

Javier Gutierrez
Teacher and Dream Center Supervisor

Karen Jacobson
Teacher and Dream Center Supervisor

Travis Corona
Teacher and Dream Center Supervisor

Bryan Kim
Dream Center Community Coordinator

Tammy Scorcia
Alhambra Teachers Association President

Adele Andrade-Stadler
Alhambra City Council Member

Denise Jaramillo
Superintendent

Marcia Wilson
Board President

Kaysa Moreno
Board Vice President

Joanne Russell-Chavez
Board Clerk

Robert L. Gin
Board Member

Kenneth Tang
Board Member

Javier Gutierrez
Teacher and Dream Center Supervisor

Karen Jacobson
Teacher and Dream Center Supervisor

Travis Corona
Teacher and Dream Center Supervisor

Bryan Kim
Dream Center Community Coordinator

Tammy Scorcia
Alhambra Teachers Association President

Adele Andrade-Stadler
Alhambra City Council Member

Sponsored by

Gold

High school

The COVID-19 Experience

Compton Unified School District, Compton Early College

The COVID-19 pandemic created a disruption of the educational system, thereby allowing Compton USD to explore opportunities to revitalize it by leveraging the power of technology to differentiate, individualize and redefine the learning experience. To that regard, all students became proficient distance learners. Compton Early College had the goals of continuing student engagement, maintaining a semblance of in-person school, and for students to be able to continue their learning without widening the achievement gap.

Congratulations

Darin Brawley
Superintendent

Charles Davis
Board President

Sandra Moss
Board Vice President

Ayanna Davis
Board Clerk

Denzell Perry
Legislative Representative

Alma Pleasant
Board Member

Satra Zurita
Board Member

Micah Ali
Board Member

Dr. Pamela Maddox
Principal

Mona Walker
Assistant Principal

Darin Brawley
Superintendent

Charles Davis
Board President

Sandra Moss
Board Vice President

Ayanna Davis
Board Clerk

Denzell Perry
Legislative Representative

Alma Pleasant
Board Member

Satra Zurita
Board Member

Micah Ali
Board Member

Dr. Pamela Maddox
Principal

Mona Walker
Assistant Principal

an Corona USD instructor sits at a computer during a virtual class session

Multi-Level

Evolution of the Virtual Program

Corona-Norco Unified School District, Academy of Innovation

The Academy of Innovation provides an alternative virtual education model to support Corona-Norco USD’s goal of ensuring all students have opportunities to achieve high academic success. This unique course-based independent study model provides unparalleled flexibility and support for students and families. Through effective use of technology, Corona-Norco strives to inspire and empower learners as they continue to adapt to change and focus on connecting and building positive relationships with the community.

Congratulations

Sam Buenrostro
Superintendent

Elizabeth “Lisa” Marroquin
Board President

Lisa Simon
Deputy Superintendent

John “Mr. Z” Zickefoose
Board Vice President

Joseph Fuertsch
Principal

Brad Hellickson
Assistant Principal

Maria Purcar
Assistant Principal

Sam Buenrostro
Superintendent

Elizabeth “Lisa” Marroquin
Board President

Lisa Simon
Deputy Superintendent

John “Mr. Z” Zickefoose
Board Vice President

Joseph Fuertsch
Principal

Brad Hellickson
Assistant Principal

Maria Purcar
Assistant Principal

an elementary aged student sits at a desk wearing headphones and using a tablet to study math

Districtwide

Information Technology

Hemet Unified School District

Hemet USD is proud to recognize its Information Technology Department and their districtwide Tech Improvement Plan. Due to their exemplary dedication, innovation and forethought, Hemet USD was uniquely prepared for the COVID crisis. The IT team took swift action by deploying devices, creating community internet cafes and parent resources, and even performing component-level hardware repairs when supply chains were low. Their role in preparing the district for online learning will be well-remembered.

Congratulations

Christi Barrett
Superintendent

Tracy Chambers
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services

Ben Markley
Chief Technology Officer

Joshua Killebrew
Coordinator of Infrastructure and Operations

Matthew Forys
IT Manager

Derek Rouch
Edtech Administrator

Natalie Flikkema
Admin Secretary III

Hemet USD Board of Education

Hemet USD IT Department

Christi Barrett
Superintendent

Tracy Chambers
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services

Ben Markley
Chief Technology Officer

Joshua Killebrew
Coordinator of Infrastructure and Operations

Matthew Forys
IT Manager

Derek Rouch
Edtech Administrator

Natalie Flikkema
Admin Secretary III

Hemet USD Board of Education

Hemet USD IT Department

an elementary school aged child holds a frame sign reading "I just got vaccinated"

Countywide

LACOE COVID-19 Response & Communication Program

Los Angeles County Office of Education

Los Angeles COE’s COVID-19 Response & Communication program was essential in providing critical, timely and accurate information to the 80 school districts of Los Angeles County to share with parents, students and staff. The program encompassed a variety of communication channels, such as newsletters, toolkits, level-alike networks and weekly calls with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health as well as resource deployment, including COVID-19 vaccines, testing and personal protective equipment.

Congratulations

Debra Duardo
Superintendent

James Cross
Board President

Maria Martinez Poulin
Deputy Superintendent

Karen Kimmel
Chief Financial Officer

Elizabeth Graswich
Executive Director for Public Affairs and Communications

Susan Chaides
Project Director for Community Health and Safe Schools

Debra Duardo
Superintendent

James Cross
Board President

Maria Martinez Poulin
Deputy Superintendent

Karen Kimmel
Chief Financial Officer

Elizabeth Graswich
Executive Director for Public Affairs and Communications

Susan Chaides
Project Director for Community Health and Safe Schools

masked middle school aged female students hold shirts that read "Girls who code make waves"

Elementary/Middle School

Staying Connected through STEAM

Montebello Unified School District, Rosewood Park School

During distance learning, Rosewood Park School’s priority was to stay connected with students and families using STEAM as the focus. Students were challenged to engage in STEAM projects, helping to build their confidence and stay connected to their learning. Many of these projects were highlighted at the Virtual STEAM Open House, supporting the home–school connection for underrepresented students within Montebello USD. The goal is to create lifelong learners and expose students to STEAM fields so they can have endless opportunities for their future.

Congratulations

Mark Skvarna
Superintendent

Jennifer Gutierrez
Board President

Kaivan Yuen
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services

Gladys Garcia
Principal

Kimberly Lazaro
Assistant Principal

Janice Corona
School Secretary

Elizabeth Gasca
Teacher

Rocio Gomez
Teacher

Esther Ceren
Teacher

Melissa Aguilar
Teacher

Peter Rico
Teacher

Maria Quezada
Teacher

Mark Skvarna
Superintendent

Jennifer Gutierrez
Board President

Kaivan Yuen
Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services

Gladys Garcia
Principal

Kimberly Lazaro
Assistant Principal

Janice Corona
School Secretary

Elizabeth Gasca
Teacher

Rocio Gomez
Teacher

Esther Ceren
Teacher

Melissa Aguilar
Teacher

Peter Rico
Teacher

Maria Quezada
Teacher

elementary aged students stand up against a wall that reads "Have courage, Be kind"

Elementary School

The Owl’s Nest

Ocean View School District, Oak View Elementary School

Oak View Elementary created the Owl’s Nest, a safe learning haven designed to keep students on campus, increase in-person instruction, provide internet access, and strategically incorporate intervention into students’ days to fill in the gaps that may have been exacerbated by the pandemic. This innovation continues to evolve and keep students engaged mentally, emotionally and physically. Students continue to persevere in the face of insurmountable challenges with resilience, courage and kindness.

Congratulations

Gina Clayton-Tarvin
Board President

Patricia Singer
Board Vice President

John Briscoe
Board Member

Jack C. Souders
Board Clerk

Michael Conroy
Superintendent

Jenna Landero
Principal

Sherri Medrano
Community Liaison

Meredith Kliem
Teacher

Gina Clayton-Tarvin
Board President

Patricia Singer
Board Vice President

John Briscoe
Board Member

Jack C. Souders
Board Clerk

Michael Conroy
Superintendent

Jenna Landero
Principal

Sherri Medrano
Community Liaison

Meredith Kliem
Teacher

Districtwide

Return to Health

Sacramento City Unified School District

Utilizing the principles of continuous improvement and equity consciousness, Sacramento City USD successfully navigated its COVID-19 response to keep schools open throughout the 2021–22 school year by implementing an aggressive and comprehensive COVID testing program and establishing a requirement that all students and staff get vaccinated or test routinely. Sacramento City USD serves a highly diverse and high-poverty student population, and includes schools located in communities that had the highest COVID transmission rates in the county. The district managed the delta and omicron variant waves by rapidly adjusting layered health and safety mitigation measures as COVID conditions improved or worsened, and worked closely with the Sacramento County Office of Public Health during all phases of this ongoing pandemic, learning together along the way.

Congratulations

Jorge Aguilar
Superintendent

Bob Lyons
Chief Information Officer

Brian Heap
Chief Communications Officer

Alexander Goldberg
Communications Manager

Nicole Kangas
Community Engagement Manager

Board of Education

Jay Elmquist
K12 Project Manager

Alexa Hankard
Legal Counsel

Victoria Flores
Executive Director Student Support and Health Services

Lisa Musser
Health Services Coordinator II

Jorge Aguilar
Superintendent

Bob Lyons
Chief Information Officer

Brian Heap
Chief Communications Officer

Alexander Goldberg
Communications Manager

Nicole Kangas
Community Engagement Manager

Board of Education

Jay Elmquist
K12 Project Manager

Alexa Hankard
Legal Counsel

Victoria Flores
Executive Director Student Support and Health Services

Lisa Musser
Health Services Coordinator II

Districtwide

SMUSD COVID-19 Compliance Team

San Marino Unified School District

San Marino USD rose to the challenge with the COVID-19 Compliance Team — a small but diverse group of educators that ensured compliance with public health orders and implemented risk-mitigating protective measures to reopen schools after the shutdowns. The team developed unique model programs and used data-driven decision-making processes with school board leaders to facilitate partnerships to exemplify that innovation in schools is attainable, even during a global pandemic.

Congratulations

Linda de la Torre
Superintendent

Jeanie Caldwell
Board President

C. Joseph Chang
Board Clerk

Stephen Choi
Chief Technology Officer/COVID-19 Compliance Officer

Asha Lee
COVID-19 Coordinator/COVID-19 Support Staff

Joanne Javier
Health Coordinator/Health Department

Gil Cardenas
Maintenance and Operations Director/M&O Department

Francesca Gil
Purchasing Manager

SMUSD COVID-19 Compliance Team

SMUSD School Reopening Task Force

Linda de la Torre
Superintendent

Jeanie Caldwell
Board President

C. Joseph Chang
Board Clerk

Stephen Choi
Chief Technology Officer/COVID-19 Compliance Officer

Asha Lee
COVID-19 Coordinator/COVID-19 Support Staff

Joanne Javier
Health Coordinator/Health Department

Gil Cardenas
Maintenance and Operations Director/M&O Department

Francesca Gil
Purchasing Manager

SMUSD COVID-19 Compliance Team

SMUSD School Reopening Task Force

emotional support dogs and their attendants stand at the head of a conference room for a group photo

countywide

Supporting Student Recovery from Natural Disaster Trauma

Sonoma County Office of Education

This program deploys Sonoma COE resources to provide support to students, staff, schools, districts and their communities at the time of a natural disaster and during recovery. There are three objectives: 1) provide a mental health crisis response team trained to implement a stepped triage-to-care system; 2) implement a COE support plan at the time of a crisis or disaster and in its aftermath; 3) share the tools, models and strategies used successfully by SCOE and other disaster-impacted COE partners.

Congratulations

Steven Herrington
Superintendent

Peter Kostas
Board President

Herman G. Hernandez
Board Vice President

Gina Cuclis
Board Member

Andrew Leonard
Board Member

Lisa Wittke Schaffner
Board Member

Steven Herrington
Superintendent

Peter Kostas
Board President

Herman G. Hernandez
Board Vice President

Gina Cuclis
Board Member

Andrew Leonard
Board Member

Lisa Wittke Schaffner
Board Member

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/county office of education. Also includes programs that offer successful strategies to attract and keep teachers in critical shortage areas.

Fresno Rural Teachers and faculty on stage together

Countywide

Fresno Rural Teacher Residency Partnership

Fresno County Office of Education, Kerman, Mendota, Firebaugh, Golden Plains and Laton Unified School Districts

Through intentional partnerships with its rural districts, local university and community-based expanded learning organization, the Fresno Rural Teacher Residency Partnership has created an equitable, accessible and innovative grow-your-own teacher pipeline model. The partnership aims to transform recruitment and retention efforts to support a teacher workforce that reflects community demographics and positions candidates to thrive by providing equity-driven professional development, intentional partnerships with mentor teachers, and wraparound supports through induction.

Congratulations

Jim Yovino
Superintendent

Kimberly Tapscott-Munson
Board President

Hank Gutierrez
Deputy Superintendent

Brooke Berrios
Program Coordinator

Angela Bowlin
Executive Assistant to the Deputy Superintendent

Jim Yovino
Superintendent

Kimberly Tapscott-Munson
Board President

Hank Gutierrez
Deputy Superintendent

Brooke Berrios
Program Coordinator

Angela Bowlin
Executive Assistant to the Deputy Superintendent

CCBE Apple for Excellence Award Winner

LVUSD Center EdX faculty members together in front of building

Multi-Level

LVUSD Center EdX: Growing Teacher and Administrator Development Pipelines Amidst Staffing Shortages

Las Virgenes Unified School District

The Las Virgenes USD Center for Educational Excellence has become a statewide leader in expanding the quantity and quality of faculty, staff and administrators in the California workforce. With more than 30 districts participating, the program has become a model of capacity building and quality professional development. Thousands of students have benefited from the hundreds of teacher and administrator graduates of LVUSD Center EdX’s five accredited credential programs.

Congratulations

Angela Cutbill
Board Member

Lesli Stein
Board Member

Linda Menges
Board Member

Kate Vadehra
Board Member

Dallas Lawrence
Board Member

Dan Stepenosky
Superintendent

Ryan Gleason
Assistant Superintendent/CBO

Valerie Louthian
Program Coordinator

Hallie Chambers
Director of Human Resources

Tina Wilkie
Credential Analyst

Angela Cutbill
Board Member

Lesli Stein
Board Member

Linda Menges
Board Member

Kate Vadehra
Board Member

Dallas Lawrence
Board Member

Dan Stepenosky
Superintendent

Ryan Gleason
Assistant Superintendent/CBO

Valerie Louthian
Program Coordinator

Hallie Chambers
Director of Human Resources

Tina Wilkie
Credential Analyst

School Culture
and Safety

Includes programs that effectively prevent or reduce school violence by promoting a safe, 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.

Lynwood USD faculty in an active shooter training seminar

Districtwide

School Safety Task Force Committee

Lynwood Unified School District

The Safety Task Force Committee collaborates to increase safety and prevent crime in the school community. Representatives include parents, safety and security personnel, social and emotional experts, and others who unite to develop protocols and procedures for all school sites and improve communication and awareness. The task force recently implemented new safety tools and technology in Lynwood USD and has created greater synergy between students, staff, community and law enforcement.

Congratulations

Gudiel R. Crosthwaite
Superintendent

Alfonso Morales
Board President

Julian Del Real-Calleros
Board Vice President

Gary Hardie Jr.
Board Clerk

Alma Carina Castro
Board Member

Maria Lopez
Board Member

Gregory Fromm
Assistant Superintendent,
Business Services

Paul Garcia
Chief of Security

Gudiel R. Crosthwaite
Superintendent

Alfonso Morales
Board President

Julian Del Real-Calleros
Board Vice President

Gary Hardie Jr.
Board Clerk

Alma Carina Castro
Board Member

Maria Lopez
Board Member

Gregory Fromm
Assistant Superintendent, Business Services

Paul Garcia
Chief of Security

Sponsored by

Silver

Social/Emotional Health/Wellness

Programs focusing on a holistic approach to the social, emotional and mental health and well-being of the LEA community including students, teachers, administrators, superintendents, board members and all other staff. Plans can include, but are not limited to, the expansion of counseling, professional development, trauma services, innovative use of district resources for mental health supports, and family and community mental health programming.

Districtwide

Integrated School Based Mental Health Wellness:

Promoting & Providing Essential Strategies for Student Achievement

Desert Sands Unified School District

Desert Sands USD Integrated School Based Mental Health Wellness prioritizes student mental health by embedding wellness practices to promote student success in and out of the classroom. Objectives include creating a multidisciplinary team at schools to develop an integrated framework of educational, social, emotional and behavioral health support for every student, enhance mental health literacy, and reduce stigma and other barriers to access mental health services. The board continues to prioritize mental health-focused initiatives, such as expanding mental health staff and committing district resources to prioritize mental health as aligned with the district mission, “To inspire and nurture every student … one opportunity at a time.”

Congratulations

Kelly May-Vollmar
Superintendent

Ana Conover
Board President

Districtwide

JUSD Behavioral Health — Mentors and Peer Support

Jurupa Unified School District

The Jurupa USD Behavioral Health Mentors/Peer Support program was launched in 2018 as a way to bring better services to students in need. The program began with mental health interns who offered peer support for at-risk students. The district saw an uptick in need for mental health support during the pandemic. Additional peer support staff were added to address these issues, with behavioral health peer specialists at every secondary site as well as parent peers available for the whole family.

Congratulations

Trenton Hansen
Superintendent

Melissa Ragole
Board President

Robert Garcia
Board Clerk

Karen Bradford
Board Member

Eric Ditwiler
Board Member

Joseph Navarro
Board Member

Rosa Santos-Lee
Assistant Superintendent, Pupil Services

Dave Doubravsky
Assistant Superintendent, Education Services

Jose Campos
Director of Parent Involvement and Community Outreach

Trenton Hansen
Superintendent

Melissa Ragole
Board President

Robert Garcia
Board Clerk

Karen Bradford
Board Member

Eric Ditwiler
Board Member

Joseph Navarro
Board Member

Rosa Santos-Lee
Assistant Superintendent, Pupil Services

Dave Doubravsky
Assistant Superintendent, Education Services

Jose Campos
Director of Parent Involvement and Community Outreach

Sponsored by

Districtwide

WorkWell to LiveWell

Redondo Beach Unified School District

WorkWell to LiveWell is an employee wellness program empowering staff to lead happier and healthier lives, thus creating a healthy work environment and positive student interactions. This unique program is a holistic model with five essential elements of well-being: purpose, social, physical, financial and community. It includes biometric screening, health risk assessments, wellness challenges and more. Redondo Beach USD values employee wellness, resulting in low attrition and high staff morale.

Congratulations

David Witkin
Board President

Rachel Silverman Nemeth
Board Vice President

Raymur Flinn
Board Presiding Officer

Dan Elder
Board Member

Rolf Strutzenberg
Board Member

Steven Keller
Superintendent

Nicole Wesley
Assistant Superintendent

Tom Bakaly
Beach Cities Health District Chief Executive Officer

Tiana Rideout-Rosales
Beach Cities Health District Well-Being Programs Supervisor

David Witkin
Board President

Rachel Silverman Nemeth
Board Vice President

Raymur Flinn
Board Presiding Officer

Dan Elder
Board Member

Rolf Strutzenberg
Board Member

Steven Keller
Superintendent

Nicole Wesley
Assistant Superintendent

Tom Bakaly
Beach Cities Health District Chief Executive Officer

Tiana Rideout-Rosales
Beach Cities Health District Well-Being Programs Supervisor

Districtwide

Center for Behavior Education

Sanger Unified School District

The Center for Behavior Education (CBE) provides intensive classroom-based behavior support for students in Sanger Unified. The team consists of a board certified behavior analyst, resource support program teacher and seven paraprofessionals with training in data collection and behavior principles. The team designs and implements social, emotional and behavior plans in classrooms. Since 2017, CBE has served 319 students ages 3 to 21 and 98 percent have maintained their placement at time of referral due to reductions in high-intensity behaviors.

Congratulations

Adela M. Jones
Superintendent

G. Brandon Vang
Board President

Timothy Lopez
Associate Superintendent of Educational Services

Jason M. Stricker
Director, Pupil Personnel Services

Nancy Ramirez
School Psychologist

Yesuly Pereschina
Resource Specialist

Wendy Puga
Paraprofessional

Karina Martinez
Paraprofessional

Andria Gonzales
Paraprofessional

Adela M. Jones
Superintendent

G. Brandon Vang
Board President

Timothy Lopez
Associate Superintendent of Educational Services

Jason M. Stricker
Director, Pupil Personnel Services

Nancy Ramirez
School Psychologist

Yesuly Pereschina
Resource Specialist

Wendy Puga
Paraprofessional

Karina Martinez
Paraprofessional

Andria Gonzales
Paraprofessional

Group of people posing on a bench with the words "Buddy Bench" on it

Districtwide

Holistic and Culturally Sensitive School-based Mental Health Program

South Whittier School District

South Whittier SD’s motto, “Success for Every Student,” has been the driving force for developing a holistic and culturally sensitive school-based mental health program. Licensed clinical social workers established telehealth procedures and policies from the ground up to ensure proper service delivery that students, families and staff could access virtually. Using Erika’s Light House curriculum, the social workers visit classrooms, providing mental health awareness to students. Students learn about the importance of taking care of their mental health, strategies to manage overwhelming feelings, and when to reach out to a trusted adult for help. Data from parent, student, teacher and community surveys will inform Jurupa’s goals and objectives.

Congratulations

Gary Gonzales
Superintendent

Natalia Barajas
Board President

Jan Baird
Board Member/Committee Liaison

Rebecca Rodriguez
Associate Superintendent,
Educational Services

Reanna Mendoza
Director of Accountability and Assessment/Parent Engagement

Cynthia Casebere
Lead Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Myra Martinez
Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Cathy Vera
Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Aaron John Villon
Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Rachel Mayer
Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Gary Gonzales
Superintendent

Natalia Barajas
Board President

Jan Baird
Board Member/Committee Liaison

Rebecca Rodriguez
Associate Superintendent,
Educational Services

Reanna Mendoza
Director of Accountability and Assessment/Parent Engagement

Cynthia Casebere
Lead Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Myra Martinez
Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Cathy Vera
Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Aaron John Villon
Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Rachel Mayer
Licensed Clinical Social Worker

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. May also include innovative programs and resources developed to address the learning and social impacts resulting from distance learning or independent study resulting from learning disruptions.

Kids and School Leaders playing a game with a giant rainbow tarp in a soccer field

Elementary School

Celebrating Diversity with our Autism Focus Program

Little Lake City Elementary School District, William Orr Elementary

Developed in 2007, William Orr’s Autism Focus (AF) program focuses on students’ academic, social and adaptive living skills. The goal of the program is to provide access to grade-level standards while meeting the unique needs of students through the use of routine structures and evidence-based strategies. Through its innovation, everyone benefits from the AF program, not just its students. The AF program has positively impacted the entire school culture by celebrating diversity and function as one student body with a goal to be successful and caring citizens.

Congratulations

William Crean
Superintendent

Hilda Zamora
Board President

Manuel Cantu
Board Vice President

Gina Ramirez
Board Clerk

Janet Rock
Board Member

Gabriel Jimenez
Board Member

Rebecca Casillas
Principal

David Hardy
Special Education TOSA

Kaci Carroll
Special Education Teacher

Nicole Sato
Special Education Teacher

Megan Hill
Special Education Teacher

Shannan Kelly
Special Education Teacher

William Crean
Superintendent

Hilda Zamora
Board President

Manuel Cantu
Board Vice President

Gina Ramirez
Board Clerk

Janet Rock
Board Member

Gabriel Jimenez
Board Member

Rebecca Casillas
Principal

David Hardy
Special Education TOSA

Kaci Carroll
Special Education Teacher

Nicole Sato
Special Education Teacher

Megan Hill
Special Education Teacher

Shannan Kelly
Special Education Teacher

A group of students and teachers posing for a picture dressed in various costumes

Multi-Level

Special Education

Mt. Diablo Unified School District, Sunrise Social Emotional Educational Collaborative

Sunrise School is a special education center-based program, serving Mt. Diablo USD students in kindergarten through sixth grade, and students in surrounding districts. Sunrise is a part of the district’s Social Emotional Educational Collaborative program, operated in partnership with Contra Costa County Behavioral Health Services. This comprehensive therapeutic program is designed to facilitate academic achievement and social development, providing a safe, structured and caring atmosphere for all students where they can develop their abilities to become successful learners and productive citizens.

Congratulations

Adam Clark
Superintendent

Debra Mason
MDUSD Board of Education President

Jennifer Sachs
Chief of Educational Services

Wendi Aghily
Chief, Pupil Services and Special Education

Lisa Gonzales
Chief Business Officer

Jessica Pozos
Assistant Director, Special Education, Mental Health

Marji Calbeck
Director of Elementary Support

Jenny Vargas
Principal, Sunrise Social Emotional
Educational Collaborative

The Sunrise Staff

Adam Clark
Superintendent

Debra Mason
MDUSD Board of Education President

Jennifer Sachs
Chief of Educational Services

Wendi Aghily
Chief, Pupil Services and Special Education

Lisa Gonzales
Chief Business Officer

Jessica Pozos
Assistant Director, Special Education, Mental Health

Marji Calbeck
Director of Elementary Support

Jenny Vargas
Principal, Sunrise Social Emotional
Educational Collaborative

The Sunrise Staff

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 support, counseling and mental health supports, intervention programs, peer assistance and nutrition programs, and interventions that reduce chronic absence.

A group of students posing for a picture inside a classroom

High School

Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) School Counseling and Support Services

Norwalk La Mirada Unified School District, Norwalk High School

Norwalk High is the first Title I high school in LA County to earn RAMP recognition. The counseling team implemented a Multi-Tiered, Multi-Domain System of Supports framework using data-driven practices to serve all students and intentionally provide support for those in need such as students with disabilities, English learners, low income, foster youth and homeless students. One-on-one counseling sessions, small groups and core curriculum has led to an increase in A-G completion, community college free tuition, Seals of Biliteracy, FAFSA submissions, and dual and postsecondary enrollment.

Congratulations

John Lopez
Superintendent

Norma Amuezca
Board President

Jessica Medrano
Assistant Superintendent

David Olea
Principal

Vanessa Iaquinta
Counselor

Candida Hernandez
Counselor

Jerry Koppe
Counselor

Michelle Lobendahn
Counselor

Sonia Perez
Counselor

Liliana Tovar
Counselor

Marvin Ramirez
Counselor

John Lopez
Superintendent

Norma Amuezca
Board President

Jessica Medrano
Assistant Superintendent

David Olea
Principal

Vanessa Iaquinta
Counselor

Candida Hernandez
Counselor

Jerry Koppe
Counselor

Michelle Lobendahn
Counselor

Sonia Perez
Counselor

Liliana Tovar
Counselor

Marvin Ramirez
Counselor

Systems of Support

Includes county offices of education that exemplify effective and collaborative support for continuous improvement in the districts they serve. Support can include those identified for differentiated improvement, with an emphasis on a systems approach. Among possible examples of supports, COEs might offer facilitated strategic planning, connecting districts with resources tailored to identified needs; networked improvement communities or inter- and intra-district collaboration; professional learning opportunities; or assistance with LCAP development and implementation.

High School

Brave Academy

Chaffey Joint Union High School District, Alta Loma High School

The Brave Academy is a schoolwide intervention program embedded into the instructional day and serving all Alta Loma High School students. It provides support and connection for freshmen as well as tutoring, study and enrichment sessions for sophomores, juniors and seniors. The academy, having just completed its 10th year, is teacher initiated and led, and was overwhelmingly adopted by the staff as its implementation has resulted in improved test scores and increased rates of students on track for graduation and A-G completion.

Congratulations

Mathew Holton
Superintendent

Christopher Hollister
Assistant Superintendent

Susan Ovitt
Board President

Gilbert Zendejas
Board Vice President

Arthur Bustamonte
Board Clerk

Donald English
Board Member

Jason Kaylor
Principal

Desiree Kimberly
Teacher

Lamar Veal
Teacher

Mathew Holton
Superintendent

Christopher Hollister
Assistant Superintendent

Susan Ovitt
Board President

Gilbert Zendejas
Board Vice President

Arthur Bustamonte
Board Clerk

Donald English
Board Member

Jason Kaylor
Principal

Desiree Kimberly
Teacher

Lamar Veal
Teacher

Technology Innovation

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 the technology essential to their education (including broadband, media and other resources).

Three elementary students working on a PCB

Elementary School

STEAM Innovation Lab: Unlocking Students’ Imagination, Creativity
and Discovery

Lowell Joint School District, El Portal Elementary School

El Portal Elementary is full of creative thinkers and problem solvers. In 2014, data showed that some subgroups were not making desired academic growth. Since then, El Portal has developed a STEAM lab that is equipped with supplies and countless ways for students to create, imagine, test and solve. Current data shows that the students who raised the largest concerns continue to succeed and enter a space where their voices are heard and their ideas make way for innovation and solutions.

Congratulations

Kari Daniel
Teacher

Becky Champion
Technology Teacher on Special Assignment

Amanda Malm
Principal

Rhonda Overby
Director of Educational Services

Jim Coombs
Superintendent

Melissa Salinas
Board President

Kari Daniel
Teacher

Becky Champion
Technology Teacher on Special Assignment

Amanda Malm
Principal

Rhonda Overby
Director of Educational Services

Jim Coombs
Superintendent

Melissa Salinas
Board President

California School Boards Association
www.csba.org | (800) 266-3382

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