What's New in GUHSD

National Principals Month Honors Outstanding School Site Leaders

L: Dr. Glover with GUHSD Principals

October is National Principals Month. The role of our principals is essential in preparing our East County students for the challenges of tomorrow. They are among the hardest working, yet often least recognized, individuals in education. Leadership is second only to classroom instruction among all school-related factors that contribute to what students learn at school, according to research conducted by the Wallace Foundation. Responsible for setting the academic tone for their school, it is the principal’s vision, dedication, and determination that provide the mobilizing force behind any school reform effort.

The key to student success is an exceptional school with talented teachers and a great principal. Please join me in honoring the hard work and dedication of GUHSD’s principals.

Third Annual East County Education Alliance Summit

The East County Education Alliance

More than 140 people from the Grossmont Union High School District and the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District attended the third annual East County Education Alliance Summit on October 13 at Cuyamaca College.

The goal of the summit was for work groups to develop a road map of alignment, pathways, dual enrollment and engagement that prepares East County high school students for college and a career, removing any speed bumps that might be in the way.

The Alliance held its first summit in 2014 and was kicked off with a signing ceremony showing support by the districts' Governing Boards. In 2015, the Higher Edge Promise Scholarship was unveiled. Through Higher Edge, a fee-free year at Grossmont or Cuyamaca colleges will be offered to qualifying graduates of the Grossmont Union High School District schools beginning with the class of 2019.

The Higher Edge Promise Scholarship is different from many of the more than 300 promise scholarships being proposed or offered across the nation. Unlike the other programs, Higher Edge is working to better prepare students for college in addition to providing a scholarship. To be eligible, students will be required to attend college engagement events, complete the Higher Edge Plan, and complete a College Success Course.

Mount Miguel Street Painters Chalk up Artwork at FESTA

The Mount Miguel High School Street Painters

On Sunday, October 9, the Mount Miguel High School chalk artists once again wowed crowds at Little Italy’s 2016 “Gesso Italiano” (Italian Chalk), San Diego’s premier chalk event.

The Mount Miguel Street Painters created murals to the delight of attendees who watched as the chalk paintings developed before their eyes.

The Gesso Italiano Festival draws over 150 artists who create spectacular temporary murals on the streets of Festa in Little Italy. The art form has its roots in ancient Italy.

Cristi MacArthur Named First Quarter Outstanding Classified Employee

Board Recognition of Cristi MacArthur as First Quarter Outstanding Classified Employee

At the Governing Board meeting on Thursday, October 20, Cristi MacArthur was recognized as the First Quarter Outstanding Classified Employee of 2016-2017. Cristi serves the Grossmont District as a Senior Secretary at El Capitan High School. She is recognized for her outstanding contributions to her school and community, and for her continued dedication, patience, diligence and compassion in helping students succeed in their education.

Classified employees provide critical support to our educational mission and programs. Congratulations, Cristi MacArthur on being selected as the First Quarter Outstanding Classified Employee of 2016-2017.

Life Saving Actions by Staff at Mount Miguel Recognized

Governing Board Recognition of Mount Miguel Staff

Also at the October Governing Board Meeting, we recognized the heroic actions of two staff members at Mount Miguel High School who saved the life of a student.

Last month, a student went to the nurse's office complaining of chest pains and difficulty breathing. As the student's guardian was being contacted, his chest pains worsened and then his breathing and heartbeat stopped. Nurse Nancy Clark and Campus Supervisor Dave Golden called 9​-​1​-​1, deployed the AED device, and took turns performing chest compressions for about six minutes until paramedics arrived to take over care of the student.

We are very thankful for the quick,​ ​lifesaving actions taken by our two staff members whose quick actions aided the student’s recovery.

Reminder: Parent Safety Forum (with Food Trucks!) Next Week

Bring your appetite and learn more about School Safety, Internet Safety, Current Drug Trends, and Pedestrian Safety.

Our East County school districts are partnering up with local law enforcement and the San Diego County Office of Education to host a Parent Safety Forum on October 27, 2016, at Greenfield Middle School, 1495 Greenfield Drive in El Cajon.  Presentations will begin at 6:00 p.m. Food trucks will be available from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.

There will also be representatives from various community agencies to provide information to parents.

Childcare and translation services will be available.

Save the Date: GUHSD Marching Band and Color Guard District Fall Showcase on 11/17

I’d like to inform you of an upcoming student performance you won’t want to miss - the GUHSD Marching Band and Color Guard District Fall Showcase on Thursday, November 17, 2016, at 6:00 p.m. at Monte Vista High School. This annual fundraiser features musical performances by our schools. Tickets are $8 at the gate. Middle schoolers and under are free.

Dr. Tim Glover

Superintendent

What's New in GUHSD

Celebrating Valhalla Modernization with an Open House

School, District and Community Officials Celebrate Modernization at Valhalla

On Tuesday, October 11, we held a ribbon cutting ceremony and open house with building tours to view the newly modernized main building at Valhalla High School. Elected officials and community stakeholders joined students and staff for the event.

The Main Building, which is over 40 years old, and the theater at Valhalla High School have been dramatically modernized. The 14-month project has completely transformed the building while preserving some historical elements. The modernization work included new technology upgrades, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, fire alarm and much more. 

The round, four-story main building provides academic classrooms and teaching spaces. Level 200 features the renovated Theater, Choral room, Food Services, CTE classrooms, and Special Education Suites.  Level 300 includes Student Support Services, consisting of Administration, Guidance, and Health Services. The District also installed LED lighting, solar carports over the student parking, and other energy-saving measures, which are expected to offset 90% of the main building’s anticipated electricity usage.

Construction on these projects concluded in time for students’ arrival on the first day of school. I thank our taxpayers, board members and district staff who support our efforts to provide quality instruction and modern facilities for our students.

The modernization work at Valhalla High School was part of the Proposition U bond passed in November 2008 by East County voters.

IDEA Center Student Showcase/Senior Humanities' Mock Election 2016

R: Presidential Candidate Jose Aranda wins Mock Election Aided by Campaign Manager Caitlyn Morris & Speech Writer Noah Larive

On Tuesday, October 11, IDEA Center High School held a well-attended open house to showcase student presentations in a station format on an exciting range of topics from Cool Chemical Reactions, Ecology and Human Impact Projects, Art and Construction, and a Humanities Political Party Campaign project to name a few.

IDEA Center seniors have been hard at work on a presidential campaign for the showcase. Senior English and Government/Economics students explored the question, “What do you stand for?” Groups created their own political parties, selected a candidate, developed campaign staff roles and researched and developed issues-based campaign platforms. The seven-week project included the creation of websites, commercials and argumentative papers from an individual and group platform.

The presentations were followed by a 12th grade Humanities Presidential Candidate Panel Discussion in the main quad.

You may review the candidate websites here. This link will give you access to each political party's website, candidate profile, and campaign commercials.  The information was shared with all students so that they could begin to think about who they were going to vote for on Tuesday after the panel presentation.

Santana’s Brooke Crocker Named California Teacher of the Year Finalist

Santana Teacher Brooke Crocker with Principal Tim Schwuchow

L. Brooke Crocker, a history and geography teacher at Santana High School was one of eight finalists for the California Teacher of the Year Program, which began in 1972 to honor outstanding teachers and encourage new teachers to enter the profession.

County offices of education nominate teachers for the California Teachers of the Year competitions through their county-level contests. A state selection committee reviews candidates' applications and conducts site visits to evaluate the teachers' rapport with students, classroom environment, presentation skills, and teaching methods.

The teachers are interviewed by the California Department of Education. The State Superintendent then selects the five awardees.

The 2017 California Teachers of the Year, finalists, and semifinalists will be honored by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson at a gala in Sacramento.

Congratulations to Ms. Crocker on achieving this high honor!

Industry Reinforces Skills Taught in CTE

Manufacturing Panel Featuring Representatives from Chuao Chocolatier, Dr. Bronner's Soap and Calbiotech 

The San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and the Center for Applied Competitive Technologies (CACT) at San Diego City College hosted a San Diego Manufacturing Elected Representative Reception on October 7 at the Liberty Station Conference Center.  The legislative reception was an opportunity for Teri Sprecco, Director II of College and Career Readiness, Frank Luera, Work-Based Learning Specialist, and Eileen Bagg-Rizzo, CTE Curriculum Specialist, to interact with San Diego manufacturers and elected officials to open a dialogue about the importance of manufacturing.  

In addition, the CTE team attended the 2016 San Diego Manufacturing Day Breakfast immediately following the reception, which included a panel of leaders who discussed manufacturing trends in San Diego County.  

All of the members of the panel stated that they struggle to find skilled labor and expressed an interest in promoting work-based learning in community colleges and high schools. They also expressed the need for skilled workers who understand the importance of the soft skills needed in the workplace. The trends in manufacturing reflect the goals in the GUHSD career technical education pathways.

GUHSD has Manufacturing pathways at El Cajon Valley, Monte Vista, West Hills, and Santana High Schools as well as Engineering at Grossmont and Santana.

Parent Safety Forum on Oct. 27

East County school districts are partnering with local law enforcement and the San Diego County Office of Education to host a Parent Safety Forum on October 27, 2016, at Greenfield Middle School, 1495 Greenfield Drive in El Cajon. Presentations will begin at 6:00 p.m. Food trucks will be available from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Topics discussed in brief presentations include School Safety, Internet/Social Media Safety, Current Drug Trends, and Pedestrian Safety.

There will also be representatives from various community agencies to provide information to parents.

Childcare and translation services will be available.

Dr. Tim Glover

Superintendent

What's New in GUHSD

Got Plans? College & Career Fair is Tomorrow! 

A student and parent interact with a recruiter at last year's Got Plans? event

The East County Education Alliance is hosting the thirteenth annual Got Plans? Career & College Fair for high school students and parents tomorrow, Saturday, October 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Cuyamaca College at 900 Rancho San Diego Parkway in El Cajon.

Please do not miss this once a year event that will have you and your child exploring college and career options. Whether your child is a freshman or senior, now is the time to visit with representatives from over 100 colleges, industries and military institutions to facilitate a deeper discussion of the many options after high school. The event also includes 17 breakout sessions ranging from financial aid and college and career workshops.

Academic League Season Schedule

The 34th Academic League season schedule has arrived. Matches begin on October 26. A new addition to the roster this year is Grossmont Middle College High School. All schools play each other at least once during the ten-game season. The team with the best record will advance to the County Championship in May.

The schedule is available here.

I hope you will find an opportunity to view a Wednesday afternoon match at your school before the season draws to a close. Save the date today for the Annual Awards Dinner which will be held on March 8 at 6:30 p.m. at Santana High School.

Come See Valhalla’s Remodel on Oct. 11

The Grossmont Union High School District is hosting a Building Rededication and Open House for Valhalla High School's Modernized Main Building and Theater on Tuesday, October 11. 

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will begin at 3:30 p.m., followed by tours of the facility from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. More information is available here.

IDEA Center Student Showcase on Oct. 11

On Tuesday, October 11, from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m., IDEA Center High School is holding an open house to showcase student presentations structured in the format of a gallery walk.

Presentations will include:

11th Grade Humanities Comic Books and Children's Books
12th Grade Humanities Political Party Campaign Stations
9th Grade Humanities Culture Expo
Culinary Projects
Cool Chemical Reactions
Ecology and Human Impact Projects
Art and Construction

Presentations will be followed by a 12th grade Humanities Presidential Candidate Panel Discussion that will occur in the main quad at 11:45 a.m. You are invited for all or part of the day. IDEA Center High School is located at 1600 North Cuyamaca Street in El Cajon.

Parent Safety Forum on Oct. 27

East County school districts are partnering with local law enforcement and the San Diego County Office of Education to host a Parent Safety Forum on October 27, 2016, at Greenfield Middle School, 1495 Greenfield Drive in El Cajon. Presentations will begin at 6:00 p.m. Food trucks will be available from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Topics discussed in brief presentations include School Safety, Internet Safety, Current Drug Trends, and Pedestrian Safety.

There will also be representatives from various community agencies to provide information to parents. Childcare and translation services will be available.

Dr. Tim Glover

Superintendent

What's New in GUHSD

Grossmont High’s New Student Support Services and Art Classroom Buildings

A ribbon cutting ceremony marks the completion of  new facilities at Grossmont High

On Wednesday, September 28, we held a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the completion of the new student support services and arts classroom buildings at Grossmont High School. Elected officials and community stakeholders joined students and staff for the event.

These new buildings provide modern classrooms and offices to support our award-winning Associated Student Body, Art Department and Student Support Services.

The new art building is a modern two-story building housing our art department in three classrooms – one for photography and digital design, one for 2-D art, and one for 3-D art (clay and metal). Two other rooms in the art building include a classroom that supports the school’s special education transition program and the other room is used by the Associated Student Body, the finance office, and a student store.

The new student support services building is a two-story modern facility that is now home to the school’s Administrative Offices, Counseling Department, College and Career Center, and the Grossmont Resource Center.

Extensive site work included additional parking, new accessible pathways and a revamped bus drop-off area, new site lighting and security cameras for improved safety and a new ADA restroom building to support the student population during the day and stadium events after hours.

I thank our taxpayers, board members and district staff who support our efforts to provide quality instruction and modern facilities for our students. These new student support services and arts classroom buildings at Grossmont High School are a part of the Proposition U bond, passed in November 2008 by East County voters.

More detailed information on the project is available here.

Upcoming District Events . . .

GOT PLANS? Career & College Fair on Oct. 8

The East County Education Alliance is hosting the thirteenth annual Got Plans? Career & College Fair for high school students and parents on Saturday, October 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Cuyamaca College at 900 Rancho San Diego Parkway in El Cajon.

At the event, students and parents will be able to interact with admissions representatives from public and private universities, community colleges, vocational schools, and the military.

Free workshops will be presented on topics including financial aid and career opportunities. Additional information will be available regarding NCAA eligibility for student-athletes, updates and changes to the SAT and ACT tests, transfer options and more.

Admission to the fair is free and open to the public.

Save the Date: Building Rededication & Open House at Valhalla on Oct. 11

The Grossmont Union High School District is hosting a Building Rededication and Open House for Valhalla High School's Modernized Main Building and Theater on Tuesday, October 11. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will begin at 3:30 p.m., followed by tours of the facility from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. More information is available here.

Save the Date: Parent Safety Forum on Oct. 27

East County school districts are partnering with local law enforcement and the San Diego County Office of Education to host a Parent Safety Forum on October 27, 2016, at Greenfield Middle School, 1495 Greenfield Drive in El Cajon. Presentations will begin at 6:00 p.m. Food trucks will be available from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Topics discussed in brief presentations include School Safety Procedures, Internet Safety, Current Drug Trends, and Pedestrian Safety.

There will also be representatives from various community agencies to provide information to parents.

Childcare and translation services will be available.

We hope to see you there!

Dr. Tim Glover

Superintendent

What's New in GUHSD

Theresa Kemper Honored with Prestigious Women In Leadership Award 

Theresa Kemper with Dr. Glover and  East County Chamber CEO Eric Lund

GUHSD Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services Theresa Kemper was honored as a Women in Leadership winner last Friday at the San Diego East County Chamber of Commerce's 14th Annual Women in Leadership Luncheon. Ms. Kemper was selected as one of seven women for the prestigious award that honors dynamic women who are leaders in their fields and communities.

I was pleased to nominate Theresa for this award because she daily demonstrates exemplary character, integrity, and outstanding leadership as a member of my senior management team. Grossmont Cuyamaca Community College District Chancellor Cindy Miles actively supported Theresa's nomination as a powerful agent for change in our East County, embodying the leadership skills that are improving educational options for our East County youth.

The inspirational event was held at the Town and Country Resort in Mission Valley. We thank the East County Chamber of Commerce for recognizing Theresa Kemper's tireless commitment to our community and for honoring the other women who are role models in their respective fields.

Helix Charter Wins Most 2015-16 League Championships

Executive Director Kevin Osborn & Athletic Director Damon Chase Accepting for Helix

Congratulations to Helix Charter High School, whose athletic teams won or shared eleven league championships, the most among our eleven Conference schools for the 2015-16 school year. Helix Executive Director Kevin Osborn, Grade Level Principal/Athletic Director Damon Chase, and recently-retired Executive Director Dr. Mike Lewis accepted the award on behalf of their student-athletes. Presenting the awards were Conference President Brian Wilbur and CIF-SDS Commissioner Jerry Schniepp. Brian was happy to report that ten of our eleven schools won at least one title last year.

Brian Wilbur and Jerry Schniepp with Mindy & Mike Lewis

The Conference was also proud to honor Dr. Mike Lewis, as he recently retired as CEO/Principal of Helix High School. Dr. Lewis was a star athlete in high school, capturing the 300 meter low hurdle conference championship as a senior at Monte Vista. He served our district over the next 30 years as a teacher, coach, Assistant Principal, Principal, and Assistant Superintendent. He twice served as Athletic Conference President, member of the CIF-SDS Coordinating Council, Board of Managers, and State Federated Council. He also was Chair of the Board of Managers for three years, expertly guiding the San Diego Section through some difficult times. Dr. Lewis and his wife Mindy were presented with a trophy and a GUHSD life pass. Congratulations to Dr. Lewis.

El Cajon Valley Hosts 2nd Annual Leadership Symposium

El Cajon Valley Alumnus Daryl Priest ('77) Addresses Students

El Cajon Valley High School was proud to host its 2nd Annual Student Leadership Symposium on Saturday, September 17. This year's theme was Service Leadership.

Following powerful keynote addresses by El Cajon Valley alumni Abraham Muheize and Daryl Priest, students were given the opportunity to choose from nine different leadership workshops hosted by alumni and community leaders. Students were exposed to inspirational stories and provided with tools to build their leadership capacity.

El Cajon Mayor Bill Wells also spoke, sharing his thoughts on service leadership and encouraged the students to continue doing positive work on campus and in our community. Mayor Wells attended last year’s Inaugural Leadership Symposium and was so impressed that he wanted to come back again this year. Students were exposed to inspirational stories and provided tools to build their leadership capacity.

The growth of student leadership on campus has been a high priority at El Cajon Valley, as positive work continues to build student connectedness and engagement. Students were motivated to immediately apply their learning to their respective organizations on campus as El Cajon Valley High School continues its mission to “work together, learn together, and succeed together!” Special thanks is extended to Daryl Priest for sponsoring the event.

Valhalla Football Volunteers at American Heart Association’s Heart Walk

Valhalla Norsemen Football Squad at Heart Walk

On Saturday, September 17, the entire Valhalla Norsemen football squad, families, and coaching staff volunteered at the American Heart Association’s San Diego Heart Walk in Balboa Park. Over 60 student athletes gave back to their community by guiding walkers, cheering on finishers, and helping to keep the route clean and safe for participants of all ages. Head Football Coach Charles Bussey initiated a mandatory community service project for his players this year; a new tradition at Valhalla High School. The community supports Valhalla's team in so many ways, and he felt it was time for them to start giving back in other ways.

Following the event, Lara Diamond Phillips, company leader responsible for Sharp HealthCare's employee participation and fundraising for the San Diego Heart & Stroke Walk, sent a personal note letting Valhalla know how impressed she was with the group of young men. She wrote, “Not only were they helpful and hardworking, but every single thing they did was carried out with a smile and a great attitude. In my role at Sharp, I work with a number of employees who volunteer for our large special events, and we are proud to deliver ‘The Sharp Experience’ by exceeding expectations in every interaction. I don't know what you’re doing or what's in the water over there, but your boys truly exemplified what we call the Sharp Experience -- they were kind, courteous, positive, earnest and a pleasure to be around.”

We're exceedingly proud of Valhalla High School and these young men!

Monte Vista Participates in Coastal Cleanup

Monte Vista Students at Coastal Clean-up in Mission Beach

On the morning of Saturday, September 17, over 70 Monte Vista students made their way to Mission Beach. Instead of towels and surfboards, these students were geared with latex gloves and plastic bags as they scoured the beach for trash.

This is Monte Vista's sixth year participating in I Love A Clean San Diego's Coastal Clean-up Day. The Monarch Team is led by Paula Delgado and Marisa Alvarado, who teach Oceanography and AP Environmental Science respectively. The students arrived at 9:00 a.m. and were assigned a section of the beach to patrol. In a three-hour shift, the students collected approximately 150 lbs. of trash.

Another great student volunteerism story – thanks to our students at Monte Vista!

International Newcomer Center Parent Forum Tomorrow!

The District’s English Learner Programs is proud to present its first Parent Forum on Saturday, September 24, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at El Cajon Valley High School. This parent training will provide parents with the tools to access their children's grades, attendance, and transcripts on Infinite Campus.

Parents will also have opportunities to increase their understanding of the high school system and English Learner Programs. The goal of the Parent Forum is to empower parents to be an integral part of their children's success. This informative session is intended for all parents, but is especially useful for parents of English Learners. Interpreters will be available in Spanish and Arabic. Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m.

El Cajon Valley High School is located at 1035 E. Madison Avenue in El Cajon.

Dr. Tim Glover

Superintendent