What's New in GUHSD

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING CONFIDENTIAL STUDENT DATA

A recent lawsuit against the California Department of Education (CDE) is impacting all school districts across the state, including Grossmont Union High School District.

In April 2012, two organizations, the Morgan Hill Concerned Parents Association and the Concerned Parent Association, filed a lawsuit against the CDE alleging widespread, systemic noncompliance by local education agencies with special education laws. The suit also alleges the CDE fails to monitor, investigate and correct such noncompliance in accordance with the law. The CDE denies these allegations and is actively defending the litigation.

As part of the litigation discovery process, the plaintiffs have requested numerous documents as well as student data collected and stored by the CDE. Many of the requested documents and data stored in the CDE databases contain personally identifiable information (PII) of children, including children with disabilities, children who requested an assessment or who were assessed for special education eligibility, and children who are attending or who have attended a California school at any time since January 1, 2008. Although the CDE has contested the production of such information, the court at this juncture has ordered the CDE to produce to plaintiffs’ legal counsel documents and data that contain student PII. Included in the court’s order to produce documents and data is a Protective Order prohibiting the plaintiffs and their legal counsel from disclosing confidential information acquired in the course of the lawsuit, including PII, to anyone other than the parties, their attorneys and consultants, and the court. None of this information may be used outside the context of this lawsuit; no student’s identifying records will be disclosed to the public.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) sets out the requirements for the protection of privacy of parents and students, including privacy of student records. Generally, parents and/or students must provide written consent before an educational agency may disclose PII. However, there are exceptions to this general rule. Specifically, an educational agency must provide PII when ordered by a court, which the CDE has been ordered to do in this litigation. The CDE is obligated to inform the parent or student that the court has ordered it to produce documents and/or data that includes those individuals’ PII and that such persons may object directly to the court regarding this disclosure.

A copy of the court order along with the form wherein parents can object and opt out of sharing their student information is online at the CDE website here. The form must be submitted by April 1.

Annual PTA Founders Day Celebration

GUHSD Officials and PTSA Representatives at the Founders Day Brunch

On Tuesday, February 23, I joined school administrators, principals, teachers, school board members, superintendents and Parent Teacher Association (PTA) leaders from across San Diego County to celebrate the founding of the PTA and its rich history of accomplishment.

This year’s Ninth District PTA Annual Meeting/Founders Day Celebration Brunch was held at the Scottish Rite Center. Several of our local PTSA presidents were in attendance including Foothills Secondary Council PTA President Lisa Stewart. We deeply appreciate our local PTSA leadership and its service on behalf of our youth.

The Founder’s Day event underscores the dedication and commitment that the members of our school PTAs offer. Parent involvement and presence makes a positive difference at our high schools.

If you are not a member of your school’s PTSA, I encourage you to get involved.  Membership forms are located in your school office and on your school or PTSA website.  Please join today.

El Cajon Valley Invites Public to Grand Re-Opening of Museum on Saturday

Museum Memorabilia on Display at El Cajon Valley

The public is invited to a grand re-opening of El Cajon Valley High School’s museum on Saturday, February 27, 2016, from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The new museum features memorabilia and highlights school events dating back to its inception in 1955. Please join us and learn more about El Cajon Valley’s rich history as the third school in the Grossmont Union High School District. 

Save the Date: Grossmont College Open House on 3/5

Grossmont College is hosting an Open House on Saturday, March 5, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Grossmont College is located at 8800 Grossmont College Drive in El Cajon.

Attend this event to learn about:

·      Financial Aid and other Student Services

·      Short-term training, certificate and degree programs

·      Transferring to a four-year college or university

·      Student leadership and extracurricular opportunities

Students will also be able to apply that day, speak with a counselor, tour the campus and more. To RSVP, visit this link. The first 100 GUHSD students to register will receive a free lunch. For questions, please email lorena.ruggero@gcccd.edu.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

What's New in GUHSD

Sparks Fly at Monte Vista Ribbon Cutting

Student Roxana Garcia cuts through metal ribbon with a plasma cutter

On Thursday, February 18, we hosted a ribbon cutting at Monte Vista High School to mark the completion of construction on three classroom buildings following a major renovation and modernization project to bring the outdated facilities up to modern standards and accommodate the district’s Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways.

In a unique twist on the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony, Monte Vista’s manufacturing technology students fabricated a special metal bow for the event, and senior Roxana Garcia cut through it with a plasma cutter. Funded by Proposition U, the $7.6 million project involved the renovation and modernization of the 700, 800 and 800A Buildings, totaling nearly 32,000 square feet. 

Building features include:

• 700 Building – features an all-new kitchen, which supplies meals for the entire campus, and two classrooms for the school’s music programs
• 800 Building – includes new computer labs to support the school’s game design CTE pathway, new ASB facility, new student weight room, restrooms, office space and storage
• 800A Building – houses the auto and metals CTE programs 

The building re-dedication ceremony was attended by school, community and district officials, including GUHSD Board Members Jim Kelly, Dr. Gary Woods and Jim Stieringer. Guests heard from students and teachers from the automotive and game design pathways. GUHSD business partner Ryan Ogden, owner of ASMAR Auto Care & Ed Hansen Muffler, spoke to the value of the auto program from an industry perspective.  

Following the event, tours were provided as students demonstrated brake, tire and fluid maintenance operations, welding and fabrication.

The district’s CTE classes utilize higher levels of academic and applied skills in preparing students for college and careers, and all CTE teachers have California teaching credentials and industry experience. More information about our CTE program is available here. 

ASB Presidents and GUHSD Schools Honored at Laurels for Leaders

GUHSD ASB Presidents at Laurels for Leaders 2016

On Wednesday, February 17, GUHSD principals, ASB Presidents and Advisors and District Administrators attended the 59th Annual San Diego County Laurels for Leaders Luncheon. The event honors San Diego County’s high school student body presidents. A Color Guard from Grossmont High School’s NJROTC program presented the colors at this year’s event.

School ASBs enhance campus life. They are concerned with the entirety of the high school experience and maximizing student activities and options while on campus. During the event, leadership awards were presented to high school ASB presidents.

I am very proud of our ASB students for their participation in the 7th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. High School ASB Food Drive Challenge. Granite Hills and Grossmont High Schools were recognized for finishing in second place and fourth place consecutively, for the number of cans donated for needy families. Their efforts, combined with other participating county schools will provide nutritious meals to San Diegans in need.

Granite Hills Students Have Their Day in Court

US Magistrate Judge David Bartick addressing Granite Hills students

On Friday, February 12, Granite Hills teachers Brenden Sexton and Gerald Lopez took 45 government students on a field trip to the United States District Court for the Southern District of California. 

The students had the opportunity to watch actual sentencing proceedings before the Honorable Janis Sammartino and the Honorable Dana Sabraw. Seeing the ramifications of smuggling drugs, weapons and people over the international border was an eye-opening experience for these young adults. Court observation was followed by a presentation on the criminal justice system hosted by the Honorable David Bartick, a former criminal defense attorney who now presides as United States Magistrate Judge. 

Students had the opportunity to ask questions about Judge Bartick’s experiences both as a defense attorney and as a judge. Finally, the students participated in a mock trial presided over by the Honorable Karen Crawford in which they took on all the roles including witnesses, attorneys, judge and jury. Students acted out the scenario of a teen accused of manslaughter when he was involved in a car accident and evidence was presented that he was texting while driving. The day was a great opportunity for teachers to offer students a look at how what they are learning in the classroom relates to the real world. Other teachers interested in participating in a similar field trip may contact Community Outreach Programs coordinator Kathleen Walford.

IB Diploma Student Earns Top Award

Granite Hills student Dana Bakke with her mom, Principal Fowler and teachers Joni Mah and Matt Davis

Granite Hills High School senior Dana Bakke was awarded the inaugural Garry Prather Memorial Scholarship from the California Association of World Schools (CAWS), a network of International Baccalaureate (IB) schools throughout California. Her IB Coordinator Matt Davis nominated Dana for this highly competitive $11,000 scholarship due to her perfect academic record. This award recognizes her as being the top academic IB Diploma Program student for the Southern California region.

In addition to her academics, Dana has contributed greatly to the Granite Hills community as an editor on the school newspaper, co-captain of her academic league team, and as a leader in several service clubs on campus. She is greatly respected by her peers, not only for her intellect, but also for her willingness to help them succeed. Joni Mah, her current English teacher, said Dana “possesses maturity, insights and ability far beyond her years” and “in 23 years of teaching, she is one of the very best students I’ve ever had the privilege to teach.” 

Congratulations, Dana!

Third Public Hearing on Board Elections Moving to By-Trustee-Area Selection

The next opportunity for the public to provide oral input on the establishment of Trustee Areas will be held at a Special Meeting of the Governing Board on Thursday, February 25, 2016, at 4:00 p.m. The meeting venue is the East County Regional Education Center located at 924 East Main Street in El Cajon.

Following the third public hearing on February 25, the Governing Board will choose a trustee area plan to submit to the San Diego County Committee on School District Organization (SDCCSDO) and will also vote to submit a General Waiver Request to the California Department of Education. 

More information is available here.

Community Forum on Next Superintendent Selection

The Executive Search Firm of Dave Long & Associates is assisting the Grossmont Union High School District Board of Education in selecting its next superintendent of schools.  Wishing to have the greatest field of qualified candidates from which to choose, the Board has decided to conduct a high-profile search. Its members have also directed the search firm to meet with members of the staff, community and other interested parties in order to obtain input about the qualities, traits, experience, and other criteria that will describe the ideal candidate for the position.  

A Community Forum will be held on Tuesday, March 1, 2016, at 6:00 p.m., in the Main Conference Room at the District Office, located at 1100 Murray Drive in El Cajon, to gather input from parents, community members and staff.

Once expectations for the traits of the best superintendent match have been identified, the search firm will begin an active and aggressive recruitment process that will conclude with the selection of several candidates who meet the Board’s criteria. Following reference checking, interviews, selection of a finalist, community visitations by the Board to the finalist’s current community and district, and successful negotiation of a contract of employment, the Board will take action to hire the new superintendent. Current plans call for the superintendent to be named prior to my departure in July.  

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee Issues 2015 Annual Report

The independent Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC) has issued its 2015 Annual Report to community.

It is publicly accessible via this link. It will be available in all school offices, county libraries within the district, and at CBOC and Governing Board meetings.

CBOC community volunteers met a total of 15 times last year. They reviewed all planned projects and expenditures, the district’s Deferred Maintenance program, and annual performance and financial audits completed by an independent auditor.

The CBOC annual report provides a comprehensive review of the CBOC’s role as well as challenges and accomplishments of the Prop H/U program. Included in the report is a review of the financial status, projects, and results of the latest audits.

We appreciate the work of these volunteers’ steadfast commitment to actively review and report on the proper expenditure of taxpayers’ money for school construction.

Third Public Hearing on Board Elections Moving to By-Trustee-Area Selection

The next opportunity for the public to provide oral input on the establishment of Trustee Areas will be held at a Special Meeting of the Governing Board on Thursday, February 25, 2016, at 4:00 p.m. The meeting venue is the East County Regional Education Center located at 924 East Main Street in El Cajon.

Following the third Public Hearing on February 25, the Governing Board will choose a trustee area plan to submit to the San Diego County Committee on School District Organization and will also vote to submit a General Waiver Request to the California Department of Education. 

More information is available here.

El Cajon Valley Students Explore Health Occupations

An El Cajon Valley student learns to check a radial pulse

El Cajon Valley Health Pathway students benefited from learning hands-on skills from students and professors at our District's Health Occupations Center (HOC). Following a presentation from director, Mrs. Carol Otjens, students rotated through classrooms to tour each health-professions program offered at HOC.

The Health Pathway students were able to work directly with Medical Assistant students to practice taking a radial pulse and learned how to take a blood pressure from the Licensed Vocation Nursing class. Our students observed how to make medication in the Pharmacy Tech lab, learned how to take dental X-rays, and witnessed the Phlebotomy students practice capillary pricks on each other. This tour exposed students to post-secondary educational options in a health-related field.

2015 Fall All-Academic Football Team Captain for San Diego County and All-CIF San Diego Section Honored

Governing Board Recognition of Santana student Jake Kitten

Santana High School student-athlete Jake Kitten was recognized by the Governing Board for his selection as the 2015 Fall All-Academic Football Team Captain for San Diego County and All-CIF San Diego Section.

The 6-foot-2 Center also helped coach Santana’s JV offensive line this season. Coach Tim Estes said that in 15 years of coaching at Santana, Jake’s the best offensive lineman he has ever worked with. Jake maintains a 4.447 GPA, and envisions himself as a future math teacher and high school football coach. 

He is considering several universities to study engineering or math. Jake volunteers his time at the Leo Club and beach clean-ups.

Laurie Tong Named Third Quarter Outstanding Classified Employee

Governing Board Recognition of Laurie Tong

At the Governing Board meeting on Thursday, February 11, Laurie Tong was recognized as the Third Quarter Outstanding Classified Employee of 2015-2016.  Ms. Tong has served the Grossmont District as an Office Assistant in the Library/Media Services Department for over 20 years. She is recognized for her expertise and diligence in ensuring the smooth operation of the department, which provides multimedia and information resources across the District. 

Classified employees provide critical support to our educational mission and programs. Congratulations, Laurie Tong, on being selected as the Third Quarter Outstanding Classified Employee of 2015-2016!

Mike Love Recognized for Continuing Success of Annual Young Men’s Leadership Conference

Mount Miguel teacher Mike Love is honored by the Governing Board. Joining him are teacher Thomas Gomes, two students and Principal Kimberlee Hedrick

Also at the Governing Board meeting on Thursday, February 11, Mount Miguel High School teacher Mike Love was recognized for his outstanding work on behalf of East County youth. 

Annually, Mike Love spearheads the East County Young Men’s Leadership Conference at Mount Miguel High School. Last month, we celebrated the 11th year of inspiring, supporting and encouraging young men to effect positive change in their lives through self-empowerment and good decision-making. I complement Mike Love and his team on this important effort.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

February is Career Technical Education Month

Students, faculty and community partners across the San Diego region will join others across the nation during the month of February to celebrate national Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month. It provides CTE programs across the country with an opportunity to demonstrate how CTE educates students to be college and career ready and prepares them for high-wage, high-demand career fields. 

CTE in Action: Monte Vista Auto Students Take Home Gold

Monte Vista Auto Students Showcase their Awards

On January 30, Monte Vista CTE Auto teacher Mike Fleming, accompanied 22 automotive students to the Skills USA Regional Competition at San Bernardino Community College. The competitions, for both basic and advance categories, were very competitive and challenging. Every team competed at multiple stations and grading was comparable to common core. The basic competition consisted of a four-person team while the advanced competition was an individual event. Approximately 15 high schools competed in the competition.

In the four-person team competition, Monte Vista captured 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, and 6th places. The Gold Medal team consisted of Ashley Martinez, Angeles Hernandez Cruz, Jesus Mendoza Villasenor, and Miguel Castaneda Escobar. They were the only team to have two females. The Silver Medal team was Guillermo Sanchez, Jonathan Gonya, Keven Fletes, and Jeremiah Gaddie. All of these teams will advance to the state conference/competition at the Town and Country Resort & Convention Center, San Diego, on March 31 – April 3, 2016.

Prudential Overall Supply Company provided uniforms for the students who competed. Entertainment during the day was provided by Bass Pro Shop. The students ended their whirlwind day with a celebratory ice cream party at Baskin Robbins.

Congratulations, Monarchs! Good luck in the pursuit of your next goal!

GUHSD Students Honored for Achievement in the Arts

Monte Vista Student Ian Navarro with his Winning Clay Art Sculptures

Monte Vista and El Capitan High School PTSAs both received entries for the National PTA Reflections program this year. The annual program encourages students of all ages and abilities to explore and be involved in the arts. Through the program, National PTA, Ninth District PTA, and PTAs across the country urge students in preschool through grade 12 to create and submit original works of art in the medium of their choice— dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography and visual arts — reflecting on a specific theme.

There also is a special artist division option for students with disabilities to ensure that all students have the opportunity to participate in the program. Students are recognized each year for their artistic ingenuity to bring the theme to life in a way that is personal and meaningful. 

This year’s theme was “Let your imagination fly.” Awards honor imagination, creativity and interpretation of the theme. The following GUHSD students have been honored by the El Capitan and Monte Vista High School PTSAs:

AWARD OF EXCELLENCE:

Ian Navarro - Grade 12, Monte Vista (Special Artist category)

AWARD OF MERIT:

Courtney Reiter - Photography - Grade 10, El Capitan

Cierra Ross - Photography- Grade 11, Monte Vista

HONORABLE MENTION:

Courtney Reiter - Photography, Grade 10, El Capitan

Maya Vallejo - Visual Arts, Grade 9, Monte Vista 

Zachary Petrie - Visual Arts, Grade 11, Monte Vista

Julian Lorenzana - Visual Arts, Grade 12, Monte Vista

Desiree Rodriguez - Visual Arts, Grade 12, Monte Vista

Monte Vista High School student Ian Navarro received an Award of Excellence and his 3-D clay art entry will move to the California PTA state level of judging. The Award of Excellence, Award of Merit and Honorable Mention entries will be on display at the Ninth District PTA Reflections Showcase held at the County Office of Education on April 7 in the evening. Congratulations to ALL!

Important Information Regarding Confidential Student Data

A recent lawsuit against the California Department of Education (CDE) is impacting all school districts across the state, including Grossmont Union High School District.

In April 2012, two organizations, the Morgan Hill Concerned Parents Association and the Concerned Parent Association, filed a lawsuit against the CDE alleging widespread, systemic non-compliance by local education agencies with special education laws. The suit also alleges the CDE fails to monitor, investigate and correct such non-compliance in accordance with the law. The CDE denies these allegations and is actively defending the litigation.

Our district was not involved in the lawsuit and is not the subject of any of the suit’s allegations.

Nonetheless, as a part of this lawsuit, CDE has been ordered by the court to release all data it has collected on general and special education students since January 1, 2008.

For more information regarding the release of this data and how you can file an objection with the court to consider not releasing your data, visit this link. You may also contact the California Department of Education at 916-319-0800.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson