Education Guide 2013

education &enrichment a special presentation by

THIRST FOR KNOWLEDGE

LOCAL GENIUSES TEACH GIFTED STUDENTS IN NEED OF A CHALLENGE AT SOUTH PASADENA’S INSTITUTE FOR EDUCATIONAL ADVANCEMENT

LEARNING FOR LIFE CONTINUING EDUCATION CAN GIVE EMPLOYEES AN EDGE IN THE WORKPLACE

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE A MOTHER’S WISH FOR HER SON TO ‘GET THAT DEGREE’ IS FINALLY FULFILLED

SURVEY SAYS… SLOAN CONSORTIUM RELEASES RESULTS OF 10-YEAR STUDY OF ONLINE LEARNING

INCHING TOWARD EXCELLENCE SCHOOLS MADE MODEST API CLIMB IN 2012, BUT PASADENA UNIFIED CONTINUES AS ‘PROGRAM IMPROVEMENT’ DISTRICT

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PRIVATE SCHOOL PRIVATE DIRECTORY YOUR GUIDE TO SCHOOL PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN THE DIRECTORY GREATER-PASADENA AREA YOUR GUIDE TO PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN THE GREATER-PASADENA AREA

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INCHING TOWARD EXCELLENCE Schools made modest API climb in 2012, but Pasadena Unified continues as ‘Program Improvement’ district

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SELECTED PRIVATE SCHOOL DIRECTORY THIRST FOR KNOWLEDGE Local geniuses teach gifted students in need of a challenge at South Pasadena’s Institute for Educational Advancement

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CRIB NOTES Local professor pens advice ebook to help students excel in college

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IT’S NEVER TOO LATE A mother’s wish for her son to ‘get that degree’ is finally fulfilled

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LEARNING FOR LIFE Continuing education can give employees an edge in the workplace

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SURVEY SAYS… Sloan Consortium releases results of 10-year study of online learning

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UPWARD BOUND Eagle Rock teacher goes the extra mile to get more students enrolled in college

ABOUT THE COVER: Illustration by Luis Bellagamba

EDITOR Kevin Uhrich DEPUTY EDITOR André Coleman FEATURES EDITOR Sara Cardine ART DIRECTOR Kent Bancroft JUNIOR DESIGNER Carla Cortez PRODUCTION DESIGNERS Richard Garcia, Rochelle Bassarear ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Dina Stegon SALES AND MARKETING Brenda Clarke, Joseluis Correa, Leslie Lamm OFFICE ASSISTANT Ann Weathersbee VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE Michael Nagami HUMAN RESOURCES Andrea Baker BUSINESS MANAGER Angela Wang ACCOUNTING Alysia Chavez, Monica MacCree VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS FOR SOUTHLAND PUBLISHING David Comden PUBLISHER Jon Guynn

CONTACT US PHONE (626) 584-1500 FAX (626) 795-0149 MAILING ADDRESS 50 S. De Lacey Ave. Suite 200 Pasadena, CA 91105 ©2013 Southland Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Inching toward excellence

SCHOOLS MADE MODEST API CLIMB IN 2012, BUT PASADENA UNIFIED CONTINUES AS ‘PROGRAM IMPROVEMENT’ DISTRICT

BY SARA CARDINE The passage of No Child Left Behind in 2001 created a systematic process for evaluating students and schools using standardized test scores and the meeting of certain benchmarks. Since then, many schools have made steady academic gains, especially in testable categories. Testing data also allows officials to see where improvement is needed, whether within a certain ethnic or socioeconomic subgroup or within an entire school or district. ” To measure progress, the US Department of Education implemented the Academic Performance Index (API), whose

scores range from 200 to 1000. The statewide target for all schools, regardless of location, spending or demographics, is 800.

In October, Pasadena Unified School District learned its districtwide API score for 2012 was 761, three points above the projected progress point set when last year’s scores were tabulated. PUSD officials called the growth “steady” and highlighted some API standout schools, including Washington Accelerated Elementary School, which jumped 49 points to earn —CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

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an API of 810.

“I congratulate the schools that had impressive increases in their API scores, but I recognize that there is still room for improvement, especially among schools that lost ground this year,” said PUSD Superintendent Jon Gundry in an Oct. 11 news release.

That release lauded the district for gaining an overall 41 points from its 2008 API score of 720. But while the district has made API gains, it’s failed to meet what the government calls Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) goals for a lack of student proficiency in math and English and for a graduation rate that missed the 2012 target by less than 1 percent. Those shortcomings caused PUSD last year to be declared a district in need of “Program Improvement,” a designation that could lead to stiff penalties if not corrected.

Meanwhile, out of 26 PUSD schools tested, only 10 met API target scores set last year, compared to 12 schools that saw no growth or experienced a decline in test scores and failed to meet their targets.

Among those schools that failed to meet testing benchmarks is Altadena Elementary School, which earned a 783 but came up 35 points short of its growth target of 818, and Madison Elementary School, which missed its target API score of 734 by 23 points. Those schools, along with 12 others, have been designated by the state Department of Education as “Program Improvement” schools. If these schools continue to fail to meet state and federal benchmarks, they are placed on a corrective course that could lead to a change in school governance through administrative reassignment or dismissal, takeover by the state or a contracted outside entity or the restructuring of the campus into a charter school. ■ For more information on local API score results, visit cde.ca.gov/ta/ac/ap.

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Selected Private Schools YOUR GUIDE TO PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN THE GREATER-PASADENA AREA NON-RELIGIOUS AGBU HIGH SCHOOL 2495 E. Mountain St., Pasadena, 91104 (626) 794-0363 agbuphs.org ENROLLMENT: 156 TUITION (APPROX.): $650/month AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: 9th-12th THE ALMANSOR CENTER 1955 Fremont Ave., South Pasadena, 91030 (323) 257-3006 redesignlearning.org ENROLLMENT: 118 TUITION (APPROX.): Varies AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: K-22 yrs ALTADENA BOYS & GIRLS ACADEMY 2151 N. Lake Ave., Altadena, 91001 (626) 345-0540 ENROLLMENT: 20 TUITION (APPROX.): Varies AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-1st ARCADIA COLLEGE PREPARATORY 145 E. Duarte Road, Arcadia, 91006 (626) 576-8868 arcadiaprepschool.org ENROLLMENT: 50 TUITION (APPROX.): $18,650 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: 6th-12th ARIA MONTESSORI SCHOOL 693 S. Euclid Ave., Pasadena, 91106 (626) 793-3741 ariamontessori.satxweb.com ENROLLMENT: 72 TUITION (APPROX.): $9,500 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-K ARROYO PACIFIC ACADEMY 41 W. Santa Clara St., Arcadia, 91007 (626) 294-0661 arroyopacific.org ENROLLMENT: 150 TUITION (APPROX.): $14,500 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: 9th-12th CAMELLIA MONTESSORI SCHOOL 922 E. Mendocino St., Altadena, 91001 (626) 794-2244 ENROLLMENT: 26 TUITION (APPROX.): $720-1050/month AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-K CAMPBELL HALL 4533 Laurel Canyon Blvd., North Hollywood, 91607 (818) 980-7280 campbellhall.org ENROLLMENT: 1,062 TUITION (APPROX.): $28,490 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: K-12th

CHANDLER SCHOOL 1005 Armada Drive, Pasadena, 91103 (626) 795-9314 chandlerschool.org ENROLLMENT: 450 TUITION (APPROX.): $18,635-20,745 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: K-8th CHILD’S WORLD SCHOOL 1540 Manley Drive, San Gabriel, 91776 ENROLLMENT: 80 TUITION (APPROX.): $575/month AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: Nursery, PK, K, CRESTVIEW PREPARATORY SCHOOL 140 Foothill Blvd., La Cañada Flintridge, 91011 (818) 952-0925 crestviewprep.org ENROLLMENT: 220 TUITION (APPROX.): $14,950 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: K-6th DELPHI ACADEMY 11341 Brainard Ave., Lake View Terrace, 91342 (818) 583-1070 delphila.org ENROLLMENT: 167 TUITION (APPROX.): $12,350-14,650 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: K-12th DRUCKER SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT 1021 N. Dartmouth Ave., Claremont, 91711 (909) 607-9064 drucker.cgu.edu ENROLLMENT: 350 TUITION (APPROX.): $1,524/unit AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: Graduate EXCELSIOR SCHOOL 1539 E. Howard St., Pasadena, 91104 (626) 398-2388 excelsiorschool.com ENROLLMENT: 64 TUITION (APPROX.): $8,900-21,350 (boarding) AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: 9th-12th FAIR OAKS ACADEMY 2704 Fair Oaks Ave., Altadena, 91001 (626) 797-0758 fairoaksacademy.blogspot.com ENROLLMENT: 49 TUITION (APPROX.): $9,000 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-6th FIVE ACRES THERAPEUTIC SCHOOL 760 W. Mountain View St., Altadena, 91001 (626) 798-6793 5acres.org ENROLLMENT: 69 TUITION (APPROX.): $5,270 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: K-10th

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FLINTRIDGE MONTESSORI 1739 Foothill Blvd., La Cañada Flintridge, 91011 (818) 790-8844 flintridge-montessori.com ENROLLMENT: 120 TUITION (APPROX.): $855/month AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-K FLINTRIDGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL 4543 Crown Ave., La Cañada Flintridge, 91011 (818) 790-1178 flintridgeprep.org ENROLLMENT: 500 TUITION (APPROX.): $28,700 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: 7th-12th FOOTHILL PROGRESSIVE MONTESSORI 4526 Indianola Way, La Cañada Flintridge, 91011 (818) 952-0129 foothillprogressivemontessori.com ENROLLMENT: 75 TUITION (APPROX.): $780/month AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-8th FRIENDS WESTERN 524 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena, 91104 (626) 793-2727 friendswesternschool.org ENROLLMENT: 20 TUITION (APPROX.): $8,755 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: K-6th FROSTIG SCHOOL 971 N. Altadena Drive, Pasadena, 91107 (626) 791-1255 frostig.org ENROLLMENT: 120 TUITION (APPROX.): $26,000 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: 1st-12th HARRIET TUBMAN 36 W. Montana St., Pasadena, 91103 (626) 794-5620 harriettubmanpreschool.webs.com ENROLLMENT: 45 TUITION (APPROX.): $500/month AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-2nd HATHAWAY-SYCAMORES, NPS 2933 N. El Nido Drive, Altadena, 91001 (626) 395-7100 hathaway.sycamores.org ENROLLMENT: 25 TUITION (APPROX.): $140/day AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: K-12th HIGH POINT ACADEMY 1720 Kinneloa Canyon Road, Pasadena, 91107 (626) 798-8989 highpointacademy.org ENROLLMENT: 350 TUITION (APPROX.): $12,000 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: K-8th

HILLSIDE SCHOOL AND LEARNING CENTER 4331 Oak Grove Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, 91011 (818) 790-3044 hillsidelc.org ENROLLMENT: 70 TUITION (APPROX.): $15,400 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: 7th-12th HILLSIDES EDUCATION CENTER 940 Avenue 64, Pasadena, 91105 (323) 255-0978 hillsideseducationcenter.org ENROLLMENT: 84 TUITION (APPROX.): Varies AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: K-12th HOGG’S HOLLOW EDUCATION CENTER 4490 Cornishon Ave., La Cañada Flintridge, 91011 (818) 790-1700 hoggshollowschool.com ENROLLMENT: 30 TUITION (APPROX.): Varies AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-K LA CAÑADA PREPARATORY SCHOOL 4490 Cornishon Ave., La Cañada Flintridge, 91011 (818) 952-8099 thelearningcastle.com ENROLLMENT: 380 TUITION (APPROX.): $11,225 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: K-8th LINDSAY SCHOOL 2450 N. Lake Ave., Altadena, 91001 (626) 666-0066 ENROLLMENT: 33 TUITION (APPROX.): Varies AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: 9th-12th LYCEE INTERNATIONAL OF LA 30 N. Marion Ave., Pasadena, 91106 (626) 793-0943 lilaschool.com ENROLLMENT: 120 TUITION (APPROX.): $11,000 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-5th MEHER MONTESSORI SCHOOL 943 E. Altadena Drive, Altadena, 91001 (323) 724-0683 mehermontessori.org ENROLLMENT: 150 TUITION (APPROX.): $888/month AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: 1 1/2 - 12 yrs OAK KNOLL KINDERHAUS MONTESSORI 1200 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena, 91104 (626) 345-9929 okkms.org ENROLLMENT: 81 TUITION (APPROX.): $9,750 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-9th —CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

Thirst for knowledge LOCAL GENIUSES TEACH GIFTED STUDENTS IN NEED OF A CHALLENGE AT SOUTH PASADENA’S INSTITUTE FOR EDUCATIONAL ADVANCEMENT

PHOTO: Mercedes Blackehart

BY JUSTIN CHAPMAN

While some mentoring programs meet the needs of students who are struggling through school, the Institute for Educational Advancement serves a very different need. For gifted students who may not be challenged by a traditional classroom setting, the Institute’s Academy in South Pasadena fills that gap.

Students from greater Pasadena and throughout Southern California take advanced classes year round at the Institute (IEA) to feed their hunger for learning. During the school year classes are held on Saturdays, and during summer they are held all day.

Currently, classes include chemistry, astronomy, calculus, self-paced math, ecology and humanities, with fun classes like Games and Theory, Playwriting and the Female Hero in Myth and Literature.

IEA was founded in 1998 by Elizabeth Jones, former associate director of The Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth, and Jim Davis, former Superintendent of La Cañada Unified School District. The nonprofit organization receives funding from individual donors, corporations and foundations.

“IEA is dedicated to supporting our nation’s brightest students in pursuing their full academic and personal potential,” says program coordinator Jen Mounday, adding that the Academy provides “programs that help gifted children balance intellectual ability with social, emotional, physical and spiritual growth.”

Mounday said students accepted into the Academy do not necessarily need to be identified as a GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) student. Their application takes into account an array of factors to determine a child’s ability, including extracurricular activities, test scores, parent feedback and the student’s own interest.

“It’s a completely different dynamic, because it’s for kids who actually want to be here, who are capable of taking in more than what’s given to them at school,” says Tony Travouillon, who teaches astronomy and self-paced math at IEA and has a doctor-

ate in astrophysics from Caltech. “In terms of social and intellectual skills, there’s such a spectrum, so it makes it tough because you have to reach everyone in different ways. You want them to keep coming back each week. Enjoyment is important,” he says.

According to Mounday, IEA began after-school and weekend enrichment classes for gifted youth in response to funding cuts for gifted education in California public schools.

“Our brightest students weren’t being challenged in school and were looking for alternative education,” says Mounday. “Based on a gifted education concept called ‘telescoping’ — taking an advanced class and compressing it into a short term experiential unit of study — IEA built its program. Many of our students admit to being bored in school and enjoy coming to a small, focused classroom setting where they can learn creatively at an accelerated pace with other exceptional minds.”

The Academy also provides an outlet for gifted students struggling to make friends with like-minded peers. As Mounday pointed out, many students develop lasting relationships at the Academy, bonding over topics like neuro-energy and chemistry.

It’s also a place where professors from such institutions as Caltech and UCLA can do some extra teaching.

“It’s a good way for me to do more education, which I like,” says Travouillon. “And the kids are amazing, because they’re very proactive. They’re here because they want to know more, so they’re always pushing me. I have to come up with the right pace and keep up with as much as they’re willing and capable of learning. And with most kids here, it’s a lot.” ■ IEA also offers scholarships for Pasadena-area students. For more information about the Academy and to learn how to apply, visit educationaladvancement.org or call (626) 403-8900.

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Crib notes LOCAL PROFESSOR PENS ADVICE EBOOK TO HELP STUDENTS EXCEL IN COLLEGE

BY SARA CARDINE Gwendolyn Dolske has seen waves of students come through the door of her philosophy classes at Cal Poly Pomona in the past seven years — some are ready to pass in a flash, to get their credits and move on, while others seem to be struggling with the many demands campus life places on their academic and social calendars.

For years, the Sierra Madre resident used the natural rapport she had with students to impart practical or personal advice about maintaining a healthy work-life balance and what professors look for when they grade; things she wishes she’d known when she was in their shoes. Dolske eventually got into the habit of writing down these sage tidbits to possibly compile into a book one day, and last year published the ebook, “Tips from the Professor: A Guide for College Success,” now available on Amazon.com.

“It really came from a desire for students to have a window into what the professor was thinking,” Dolske says of the book’s genesis. “I’ve seen some students who are quite bright, but they just don’t have the [best] habits. I want students to really take time to actually enjoy what they’re learning.”

The ebook discusses how professors gauge a student’s knowledge of a subject based on their own observations of that student’s behavior in class and attitude toward the class and material, and how that impression can impact final grades.

Oftentimes, Dolske says, the biggest obstacles in a college student’s life stem from personal problems he or she may be experiencing, and so in addition to chapters on homework, essays and time management, “Tips from the Professor” covers personal finances, extracurricular activities and being mindful of the company one keeps.

Dolske admits her own undergraduate career at San Diego State University didn’t exactly start off with a bang. She’d originally hoped to attend another school and was slightly disgruntled as a result. After one semester, however, she discovered philosophy and threw herself into her studies and on-campus clubs. That change in attitude, she says, made all the difference.

“It took me some time to fall in love with school, but once

there was this shift, there was no going back,” she recalls.

After graduating with a degree in philosophy in 1999, Dolske went on to pursue her graduate degree from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium. Since then, she has been published in The Camus Society Journal and the Film and Philosophy Journal and is presenting papers at the International Simone de Beauvoir Conference and at The Pacific Society for Women in Philosophy.

She encourages college students to take advantage of opportunities to travel abroad, to learn and use foreign languages and learn about other cultures. Dolske also discusses the importance of cultivating a healthy curiosity, as this is what separates the good students from the excellent ones.

“Education is a process, and it can’t be treated like another industry where being extremely quick is the key,” she says. “Education is something that’s unique, in that it takes time. There has to be an engagement.” ■ “Tips from the Professor: A Guide for College Success,” the Kindle edition, is available for $4.99 on Amazon.com E D U C A T I O N G U I D E 2 0 1 3 P A S A D E N A W E E K L Y • 11

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It’s never too late

A MOTHER’S WISH FOR HER SON TO ‘GET THAT DEGREE’ IS FINALLY FULFILLED

BY KEVIN UHRICH My mother, God bless her sainted soul, was fairly easy-going about most of the challenges her eight children presented her with as youngsters. But there was one thing on which Mom would not equivocate: The importance of higher education.

To Mom, a registered nurse, education was the only key that could open doors to a fulfilling and possibly prosperous life after we had left the roost; the life we would lead long after we had put aside our footballs, hockey sticks and baseball gloves.

All of my siblings heeded this sage advice, with one sister attending a university while in the convent, three sisters going to nursing school and three brothers enrolling in the local college.

Being the last and most rebellious of our brood, however, I had other plans instead of college after high school, ideas that included packing up and following some of my friends from southeastern Pennsylvania to California — the “Promised Land,” a

place famous for movie stars, beaches, sunshine and beautiful girls, as well as state universities and junior colleges that were essentially free to attend, except for the cost of books.

I heeded Mom’s admonition to “get that degree,” that allimportant “sheepskin,” as she called it, first attending LA Valley College in Van Nuys, and later enrolling at Cal State, Northridge (CSUN). However, in the short span of a few years, I became a father, and acquiring a well-paying job replaced education as a major priority.

Probably because I simply loved writing, I have managed to stay in journalism without a degree since that time, working as a daily reporter at the Simi Valley Enterprise, the Pasadena StarNews and the LA Times, as well as regularly writing for the old LA Reader, the LA Weekly, a few magazines, and finally the —CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

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RELIGIOUS

Selected Private Schools CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 NON-RELIGIOUS OUR SCHOOL 1800 E. Mountain St., Pasadena, 91104 (626) 798-0911 ourschoolofpasadena.com ENROLLMENT: 68 TUITION (APPROX.): $885/month AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-K PACIFIC OAKS CHILDREN’S SCHOOL 714 W. California Blvd., Pasadena, 91105 (626) 397-1372 pacificoakschildrensschool.org ENROLLMENT: 220 TUITION (APPROX.): $600/month AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian PASADENA WALDORF SCHOOL 209 E. Mariposa St., Altadena, 91001 (626) 794-9564 pasadenawaldorf.org ENROLLMENT: 265 TUITION (APPROX.): $10,295-19,925 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-10th PINEWOOD ACADEMY OF LITERACY 4490 Cornishon Ave., La Cañada Flintridge, 91011 (818) 952-1900 ENROLLMENT: 16 TUITION (APPROX.): Varies AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: 5-12th POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL 1030 E. California Blvd., Pasadena, 91106 (626) 396-6300 polytechnic.org ENROLLMENT: 860 TUITION (APPROX.): $22,420-30,180 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: K-12th RENAISSANCE ACADEMY 4490 Cornishon Ave., La Cañada Flintridge, 91011 (818) 952-3055 renaissanceacademy.com ENROLLMENT: 145 TUITION (APPROX.): $5,340 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: K-12th ROSEMARY SCHOOL 36 S. Kinneloa Ave., Suite 110 Pasadena, 91107 (626) 844-3033 rosemarychildren.org ENROLLMENT: 37 TUITION (APPROX.): N/A AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: 7th-12th ST. GREGORY A. & M. HOVSEPIAN SCHOOL 2215 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, 91107 (626) 578-1343 hovsepianschool.org ENROLLMENT: 210 TUITION (APPROX.): $525-625/month AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-8th

SAN MARINO MONTESSORI SCHOOL 444 S. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena, 91107 (626) 577-8007 sanmarinomontessori.org ENROLLMENT: 200 TUITION (APPROX.): $625/month AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-8th SEQUOYAH SCHOOL 535 S. Pasadena Ave., Pasadena, 91105 (626) 795-4351 sequoyahschool.org ENROLLMENT: 192 TUITION (APPROX.): $19,100 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: K-8th SOUTHWESTERN ACADEMY 2800 Monterey Road, San Marino, 91108 (626) 799-5010 southwesternacademy.edu ENROLLMENT: 134 TUITION (APPROX.): $16,550-30,750 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: 6th-12th VILLA ESPERANZA SCHOOL 2116 E. Villa St., Pasadena, 91107 (626) 449-2919 villaesperanzaservices.org/children ENROLLMENT: 80 TUITION (APPROX.): $125/day AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-12th WALDEN SCHOOL 74 S. San Gabriel Blvd., Pasadena, 91107 (626) 792-6166 waldenschool.net ENROLLMENT: 210 TUITION (APPROX.): $17,763 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-6th THE WAVERLY SCHOOL 67 W. Bellevue Drive, Pasadena, 91105 (626) 792-5940 thewaverlyschool.org ENROLLMENT: 318 TUITION (APPROX.): $11,466-20,962 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: PK-12th WESTRIDGE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 324 Madeline Drive, Pasadena, 91105 (626) 795-1153 westridge.org ENROLLMENT: 503 TUITION (APPROX.): $24,000 AFFILIATION: Nonsectarian GRADE LEVELS: 4th-12th

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ALL SOULS CATHOLIC SCHOOL 29 S. Electric Ave., Alhambra, 91801 (626) 282-5695 ascschool.org ENROLLMENT: 100 TUITION (APPROX.): $6,500 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: PK-3rd ALVERNO HIGH SCHOOL 200 N. Michillinda Ave., Sierra Madre, 91204 (626) 355-3463 alverno-hs.org ENROLLMENT: 225 TUITION (APPROX.): $11,600 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: 9th-12th ANNUNCIATION CATHOLIC SCHOOL 1307 E. Longden Ave., Arcadia, 91006 (626) 447-8262 acschargers.org ENROLLMENT: 120 TUITION (APPROX.): $4,781 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: K-8th ARCADIA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 1900 S. Santa Anita Ave., Arcadia, 91006 (626) 574-8229 acslions.com ENROLLMENT: 250 TUITION (APPROX.): $7,000 AFFILIATION: Christian GRADE LEVELS: PK-8th ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY 2660 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena, 91107 (626) 793-2089 abvmschool.net ENROLLMENT: 305 TUITION (APPROX.): $4,529-6,967 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: K-8th THE BARNHART SCHOOL 240 W. Colorado Blvd., Arcadia, 91007 (626) 446-5588 barnhartschool.org ENROLLMENT: 220 TUITION (APPROX.): $11,474 AFFILIATION: Christian GRADE LEVELS: K-8th BETHANY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 93 N. Baldwin Ave., #B, Sierra Madre, 91204 (626) 355-3527 bcslions.org ENROLLMENT: 220 TUITION (APPROX.): Varies AFFILIATION: Christian GRADE LEVELS: PK-8th B’NAI SIMCHA JEWISH COMMUNITY PRESCHOOL 550 S. 2nd Ave., Arcadia, 91006 (626) 445-4805 bnaisimcha.org ENROLLMENT: 55 TUITION (APPROX.): $614/month AFFILIATION: Jewish GRADE LEVELS: 2 yrs-PK CLAIRBOURN SCHOOL 8400 Huntington Drive, San Gabriel, 91775 (626) 286-3108 clairbourn.org ENROLLMENT: 350 TUITION (APPROX.): $11,875-19,650 AFFILIATION: Christian Science GRADE LEVELS: PK-8th

EMMAUS LUTHERAN SCHOOL & PRESCHOOL 840 S. Almansor St., Alhambra, 91801 (626) 289-3664 emmauslutheranchurch.org ENROLLMENT: 140 TUITION (APPROX.): $5,855 AFFILIATION: LCMS GRADE LEVELS: PK-8th FIRST PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL 556 Las Tunas Drive, #107 Arcadia, 91007 (626) 294-9219 firstpresbyterianschool.org ENROLLMENT: 60 TUITION (APPROX.): $14,000 AFFILIATION: Christian GRADE LEVELS: 9th-12th FLINTRIDGE SACRED HEART ACADEMY 440 Saint Katherine Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, 91011 (626) 685-8300 fsha.org ENROLLMENT: 410 TUITION (APPROX.): $20,250-44,250 (boarding) AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: 9th-12th THE GOODEN SCHOOL 192 N. Baldwin Ave., Sierra Madre, 91204 (626) 355-2410 goodenschool.org ENROLLMENT: 170 TUITION (APPROX.): $12,650-13,750 AFFILIATION: Episcopal GRADE LEVELS: K-8th GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN CHURCH AND SCHOOL 6338 N. Figueroa St., Highland Park 90042 (323) 255-2786 goodshepherdla.org ENROLLMENT: 80 TUITION (APPROX.): $400/month AFFILIATION: Lutheran GRADE LEVELS: PK-6th GRACE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 73 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena, 91106 gracechristianacademy.org ENROLLMENT: 75 TUITION (APPROX.): $6,000 AFFILIATION: Lutheran GRADE LEVELS: K-8th HARAMBEE PREPARATORY 1609 N. Navarro Ave., Pasadena, 91103 (626) 798-7431 harambee.org/harambee.preparatory.school/ ENROLLMENT: 35 TUITION (APPROX.): $7,000 AFFILIATION: Christian GRADE LEVELS: PK-5th HOLY ANGELS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 360 Campus Drive, Arcadia, 91007 (626) 447-6312 holyangelsarcadia.org ENROLLMENT: 302 TUITION (APPROX.): $6,072 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: PK-8th HOLY FAMILY 1301 Rollin St., South Pasadena, 91030 (626) 799-4352 school.holyfamily.org ENROLLMENT: 316 TUITION (APPROX.): $5,775 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: K-8th

JOY CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL 425 Sierra Madre Villa Ave., Pasadena, 91107 (626) 795-4608 joychristianpreschool.com ENROLLMENT: 40 TUITION (APPROX.): $741/month AFFILIATION: Protestant GRADE LEVELS: 2 yrs-K JUDSON INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL 1610 E. Elizabeth St., Pasadena, 91104 (626) 398-2476 judsonschool.org ENROLLMENT: 165 TUITION (APPROX.): $6,825 AFFILIATION: Christian GRADE LEVELS: K-10th LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL 3880 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena, 91107 (626) 351-8951 lasallehs.org ENROLLMENT: 710 TUITION (APPROX.): $14,616 AFFILIATION: Christian GRADE LEVELS: 9th-12th LAKE AVENUE CHURCH SCHOOL 393 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena, 91101 (626) 844-4755 school.lakeAvenue.org ENROLLMENT: 166 TUITION (APPROX.): $4,800 AFFILIATION: Christian GRADE LEVELS: PK-K MARANATHA HIGH SCHOOL 169 S. Saint John Ave., Pasadena, 91105 (626) 817-4000 maranatha.hs.org ENROLLMENT: 656 TUITION (APPROX.): $16,750 AFFILIATION: Christian GRADE LEVELS: 9th-12th MAYFIELD JUNIOR SCHOOL OF THE HOLY CHILD JESUS 405 S. Euclid St., Pasadena, 91101 (626) 796-2774 mayfieldjs.org ENROLLMENT: 515 TUITION (APPROX.): $18,190 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: K-8th MAYFIELD SENIOR SCHOOL 500 Bellefontaine St., Pasadena, 91105 (626) 799-9121 mayfieldsenior.org ENROLLMENT: 300 TUITION (APPROX.): $20,000 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: 9th-12th NEW HORIZON SCHOOL 651 N. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena, 91103 (626) 795-5186 newhorizonschool.org ENROLLMENT: 200 TUITION (APPROX.): $4,978 AFFILIATION: Islamic GRADE LEVELS: PK-8th PASADENA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 1515 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, 91104 (626) 791-1214 pasadenachristian.org ENROLLMENT: 450 TUITION (APPROX.): Varies AFFILIATION: Christian GRADE LEVELS: PK-8th

PASADENA MONTESSORI SCHOOL 280 S. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena, 91101 (626) 792-0115 pasadenamontessori.com ENROLLMENT: 45 TUITION (APPROX.): $595/month AFFILIATION: Christian GRADE LEVELS: PK-K THE PEACE & JUSTICE ACADEMY 1041 N. Altadena Drive, Pasadena, 91107 (626) 345-0504 thepeaceacademy.org ENROLLMENT: 20 TUITION (APPROX.): $12,500 AFFILIATION: Christian GRADE LEVELS: 6th-12th PROVIDENCE HIGH SCHOOL 511 S. Buena Vista St., Burbank, 91505 (818) 846-8141 providencehigh.org ENROLLMENT: 411 TUITION (APPROX.): $12,900 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: 9th-12th RAMONA CONVENT SECONDARY SCHOOL 1701 W. Ramona Road, Alhambra, 91803 (626) 282-4151 ramonaconvent.org ENROLLMENT: 271 TUITION (APPROX.): $11,055 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: 7th-12th SAHAG.MESROB ARMENIAN CHRISTIAN 2501 Maiden Lane, Altadena, 91001 (626) 798-5020 sahagmesrobschool.org ENROLLMENT: 195 TUITION (APPROX.): 572/month AFFILIATION: Christian GRADE LEVELS: Nursery-8th ST. ANDREW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 42 Chestnut St., Pasadena, 91103 (626) 796-7697 school.standrewpasadena.com ENROLLMENT: 209 TUITION (APPROX.): $4,396 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: PK-8th ST. ANTHONY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 1905 S. San Gabriel Blvd., San Gabriel, 91776 (626) 280-7255 saintanthonyschoolsg.org ENROLLMENT: 190 TUITION (APPROX.): $425/month AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: PK-8th ST. BEDE THE VENERABLE SCHOOL 4524 Crown Avenue, La Cañada Flintridge, 91011 (818) 790-7884 stbedeschool.net ENROLLMENT: 270 TUITION (APPROX.): Varies AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: K-8th ST. EDMUNDS NURSERY SCHOOL 1175 S. San Gabriel Blvd., San Marino, 91108 (626) 792-7742 saintedmunds.org ENROLLMENT: 106 TUITION (APPROX.): Varies AFFILIATION: Episcopal GRADE LEVELS: 3 yrs-PK

ST. ELIZABETH PARISH SCHOOL 1840 N. Lake Ave., Altadena, 91001 (626) 797-7727 saint-elizabeth.org ENROLLMENT: 260 TUITION (APPROX.): $5,000 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: PK-8th ST. FELICITAS AND PERPETUA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 2955 Huntington Drive, San Marino, 91108 (626) 796-8223 saintfelicitas.org ENROLLMENT: 277 TUITION (APPROX.): $5,100 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: K-8th ST. FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL 200 Foothill Blvd., La Cañada Flintridge, 91011 (818) 790-0325 sfhs.net ENROLLMENT: 650 TUITION (APPROX.): $13,300 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: 9th-12th ST. JAMES PARISH DAY 1325 Monterey Road, South Pasadena, 91030 (626) 799-6906 sjcsp.org ENROLLMENT: 131 TUITION (APPROX.): Varies AFFILIATION: Episcopal GRADE LEVELS: Nursery-K ST. MARK’S SCHOOL 1050 E. Altadena Drive, Altadena, 91001 (626) 798-8858 saint-marks.org ENROLLMENT: 331 TUITION (APPROX.): $12,942 AFFILIATION: Episcopal GRADE LEVELS: PK-6th ST. MONICA ACADEMY 301 N. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena, 91103 (626) 229-0351 stmonicaacademy.org ENROLLMENT: 222 TUITION (APPROX.): $6,600 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: 1st-12th ST. PHILIP SCHOOL 1363 Cordova St., Pasadena, 91106 (626) 795-9691 stphiliptheapostle.org ENROLLMENT: 542 TUITION (APPROX.): Varies AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: K-8th ST. RITA ELEMENTARY 322 N. Baldwin Ave., Sierra Madre, 91204 (626) 355-6114 st-rita.org/school ENROLLMENT: 282 TUITION (APPROX.): $5,000 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: K-8th SAN GABRIEL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 117 N. Pine St., San Gabriel, 91775 (626) 287-0486 sgucandcs.org ENROLLMENT: 403 TUITION (APPROX.): $7.550 AFFILIATION: Christian GRADE LEVELS: PK-8th

SAN GABRIEL MISSION ELEMENTARY 416 S. Mission Drive, San Gabriel, 91776 (626) 281-2454 sangabrielmission.org ENROLLMENT: 220 TUITION (APPROX.): $4,370 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: K-8th SAN GABRIEL MISSION HIGH SCHOOL 254 S. Santa Anita St., San Gabriel, 91776 (626) 282-3181 sgmhs.org ENROLLMENT: 260 TUITION (APPROX.): $8,050 AFFILIATION: Catholic GRADE LEVELS: 9th-12th SAN GABRIEL SDA ACADEMY 8827 E. Broadway St., San Gabriel, 91776 (626) 292-1156 san25.adventiSt., schoolconnect.org ENROLLMENT: 253 TUITION (APPROX.): $410-626/month AFFILIATION: Seventh Day Adventist GRADE LEVELS: K-12th WEIZMANN DAY SCHOOL 1434 N. Altadena Drive, Pasadena, 91107 (626) 797-0204 weizmann.net ENROLLMENT: 73 TUITION (APPROX.): $14,266 AFFILIATION: Jewish GRADE LEVELS: K-7th WESTMINSTER ACADEMY 1206 Lincoln Ave., Pasadena, 91103 (626) 398-7576 ENROLLMENT: 104 TUITION (APPROX.): $6,340 AFFILIATION: Christian GRADE LEVELS: K-8th

* FOR MORE INFORMATION, SEE THE DIRECTORY OF SERVICES ON PAGE 18

E D U C A T I O N G U I D E 2 0 1 3 P A S A D E N A W E E K L Y • 15

16 • P A S A D E N A W E E K L Y E D U C A T I O N G U I D E 2 0 1 3

—CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

Pasadena Weekly. Come 1998, things were going pretty well, and I decided to enroll at CSUN once more.

At that time, I took a number of classes in my major, political science, and a few requirements, like geology, and ended up on the dean’s list. But, shortly after the Times bought the paper from former owner Jim Laris, my educational advancement came to another abrupt standstill after I accepted the job of PW editor. Within a month of taking the job, Mom died at the age of 83, and I rarely, if ever, thought again of returning to school.

More than a decade would pass before I finally decided to go back to CSUN and finish what I had started. And over the course of a year and a half, I completed the 24 units needed to graduate, taking 12 units in the fall of 2011 while working fulltime at the paper. I didn’t want anyone to know what was going on, so I scheduled classes for either 8 a.m. or 6 p.m., and other classes on light production days, like Thursday and Friday.

Luckily, I got every course I needed. I was fortunate as well to fall into a small inheritance, which was enough to help pay for tuition, which, as we know, is no longer free, much as it was during the first Jerry Brown administration in 1979.

My second semester was a little more difficult, primarily because I had a math requirement to fulfill. Knowing I would need tutoring in that subject, I took three classes instead last spring. Then, over the summer, I spent a few bucks on a tutor and took the math class in the fall.

I ended up with an A in math — perhaps the only person in my family to do so — finishing my last year of college with a GPA of 3.8. Who would have thought such a thing was possible at age 53? Apparently, it really is never too late to learn.

She won’t be there in May to see me walk down the aisle, but I’m sure Mom would be very proud of me just the same, even if it has taken 30 years to finally “get that degree.” ■ E D U C A T I O N G U I D E 2 0 1 3 P A S A D E N A W E E K L Y • 17

ou can have a good, authentic French restaurant that imports pâté in a can from Paris and uses Caviar Helper from Trader Joe’s. But for genuine ethnic cookery — the kind that truly reflects the time and place of its concern — you have to really know the territory.

Abel Ramirez was raised in a Yucatan village with five brothers and four sisters. The brothers took turns riding to and fro on horseback around the side of a mountain to their father’s cattle ranch.

Each night they’d return with saddlebags filled with fresh ADVANCED EDUCATION ACADEMY milk, fruit and vegetables including the size Advanced Education Academy is—a small private“avocados school in La Canada, CA,of which cantaloupes, so sweet and tempting,” recalled “thatuntil many specializes in student, paced learning.

Each student doesRamirez, not move forward full the materials is achieved. OurBut student is low,and giving of understanding them didn’tofmake it to guacamole.” theteacher wholeratio family each student individualized help needed to progress friends madethe it to the barbecue pit for dinner.swiftly on their personal program. child may come for a and free visiting andvalues, see if thisthe environBeyond Your teaching freshness familyday. as Come lasting ment would be a good fit for you and your family. 4490 Cornishon Ave., La Canada environment helped instill in Ramirez a proclivity toward fun and Flintridge, CA 91011 (818) 952-1900 - www.aeaschool.com fiesta.

“Dad raised fighting bulls, but they were used only for caping ALL SOULS SCHOOL All Souls School is at thevarious first Catholic elementary school in the said SG Valley to offer aThere dual demonstrations village celebrations,” Ramirez. language immersion program. tracks to pick or so was no blood, no death inWith thetwo afternoon, nofrom ear(Spanish/English for Ava Gardner, Mandarin/English), we offer a rigorous curriculum in a nurturing environment. Our among the fiesta crowd perhaps only Hemingway might have shown credentialed teachers focus on the education of the whole child with the goal of leading disappointment. students to become fully bilingual and biliterate individuals who are ready for the Before purchasing El Portal 13 years ago, Ramirez learned about challenges of the 21st century. www.ascschool.org. what to do at places where very particular people congregate: He ALTADENA served for CHRISTIAN 17 years CHILDREN’S as generalCENTER manager of Caltech’s Athenaeum, At ACCC, the programs whothen-Huntington range in age from 2 months preceded by families a stintofofthe 14children yearsinatour Pasadena’s Hotel. to prekindergarten find programs that meet the needs of the whole child within a Ask him some day about smuggling hamburgers to Ohio State developmentally appropriate framework. Our family-centered approach helps to nurture football who had teachers been sent to bedashungry.

Coach Woody healthy players partnerships between and parents we all work together to support Hayes, the legendary had tucked them in after to they missed the children.

We are eagermeanie, to help families from diverse backgrounds discover that ACCC ison thethe besteve place child’s early education. Join us for our summer curfew offora their Rose Bowl game. programs whichthere combine andtime learning and nature!

At El Portal arefunfew limits on weekend romance with Contact Director Toni Boucher at (626) 797-6142 or visit accc-kids.org. mariachi, the pouring of award-winning tequilas and the serving of

Y

signature Yucatecan and Mayan dishes such as cochinita pibil.

Chef Cesar Soberanis puts his signature on pork-butt chunks longsimmered down to juicy tatters in a classic achiote recado marinade (herbed and spiced with brick-red achiote paste, peeled garlic cloves and salt as well as sweet and bitter orange juice) before being wrapped and baked in banana leaves.

In such dishes one can still hear echoes of genuine heritage.

Ramirez says he hopes to someday dig a genuine Mayan cooking stove —STABLES rock-lined, wood-fired, covered with fragrant leaves and ALTADENA bags of earth seal in the heat.

I could an for your Altadena Stables isto a full-service facility and “This offers a way safe and friendlysteam environment armadillo in the parking he joked, the citycaretakers of Pasadena riding enjoyment.

Boarded horses lot,” are attended to 24/7“but by experienced who live on the property.

The location is next to the Arroyo Seco and its beautiful forest trails. won’t let me.”

Instruction is provided horses byback, skilledIprofessionals trainers, Otherwise, lifeonisreliable good.stable “A while bought a and condo at who offer lessons, camps, clinics and groups for riders of all ages and skill levels Rosarito Beach, and lately I’ve been practicing retirement there on www.altadenastables.com (626) 797-2012 weekends and sometimes on Mondays and Tuesdays. But quitting now is out the question. I so love what I’m doing.”

ALVERNO HIGHof SCHOOL

DIRECTORY OF EDUCATORS AND SERVICES

18 • P A S A D E N A W E E K L Y E D U C A T I O N G U I D E 2 0 1 3

Alverno High School provides girls with a full college preparatory curriculum in a distinctly beautiful environment.

The Summer Academicpique Conservatory for Middle School Girls welcomes Do any other area restaurants his culinary interest? sixth, seventh, and eighth grade girls to enjoy a summer developing their leadership potential, building healthy relationships, and learning through classes including math, “ForHSPT/ISEE me, a special theperforming rack ofarts, lamb Maison English, test prep, treat culinaryisarts, andnext more! door Both fullatand half day Akira are [713 E. Green Pasadena; (626) 796-9501].

Myperson lovely options available to help St., empower your daughter to become exactly the she wife wants Rosalia eatsAve., lamb, never cooks ■ to be. 200 N.never Michillinda Sierraand Madre, CA 91024, (626)it.”

355-3463 www myalverno.org A NOISE WITHIN A Noise Within - Take charge onstage and meet fellow young artists in Summer With Shakespeare - a three-week conservatory-style camp focusing on acting, improvisation, voice, and movement led by professional actors, choreographers, and designers!

Participants will be placed in age-appropriate groups and perform for an audience on A Noise Within’s Main Stage, culminating in a presentation of scenes & monologues from Shakespeare’s timeless canon. 3352 E Foothill Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91107 (626) 356-3104 - www.anoisewithin.org/SWS —CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

E D U C A T I O N G U I D E 2 0 1 3 P A S A D E N A W E E K L Y • 19

ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

ANGELS SCHOOL SUPPLY Angels School Supply carries a large selection of teaching materials! From Arts & Crafts, Bulletin Boards, Children's Books, Classroom Furniture, Flash Cards, Homeschooling Materials, Manipulatives, Musical Instruments, Puzzles, Religious Materials, Resource Books, Spanish Materials, Trimmers & Borders, Workbooks, Educational Toys and a lot more. Come visit our wonderful store. We also offer a great shopping atmosphere. 600 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 584-0855 www.angelsschoolsupply.com ART CLASSES OF PASADENA Art Classes of Pasadena is a small private studio that is artist owned and operated.

The teachers are professional artists and illustrators who love teaching and sharing the joy of creating art with their students. We offer instruction in traditional painting and drawing, cartooning, and computer arts for kids ages 4 and up, teenagers and adults.

You are welcome to visit us for a no obligation FREE TRIAL CLASS! Call (626) 993-4021 to set up an appointment! www.artclassesofpasadena.com.

AXIA LEARNING Axia Learning promises happier school nights through expert and professional in-home instruction and test preparation, parent coaching, consultations, and academic and learning behavior assessments. We specialize in identifying and meeting each student’s unique educational needs and goals. Our Director of Education is a credentialed teacher with a Master’s Degree in Education, specializing in Curriculum & Instruction.

She serves as Chairperson of the St. Gregory Hovsepian School Board in Pasadena and regularly presents parent workshops on "Happier School Nights." 327 Arden Avenue #103, Glendale, CA 91203. (818) 240-4044 BARNHART SCHOOL Barnhart School offers a private elementary and middle school education for children in kindergarten through 8th grade from the Arcadia, Pasadena, Sierra Madre and other San Gabriel Valley communities. Distinguished programs of Barnhart School are the Writers’ Workshop, the 7th grade Biotech project sponsored by Amgen, Spanish at all grade levels with a conversation club in 8th grade, early literacy emphasis, the Virtues character development program, and continued integration of technology, arts, and physical education. 240 W. Colorado Blvd., Arcadia. barnhartschool.org (626) 446-5588 CIAM MBA The California Institute of Advanced Management offers an 11 month affordable MBA in Executive Management and Entrepreneurship in the Los Angeles-Pasadena area. Our Immediate Applied Theory for Enhanced Performance learning model means students graduate with a portfolio of real accomplishments for business clients. Program includes Weekly sessions with potential employers participating as visiting executives.

All faculty possess doctorates; e-professors from prestigious universities supplement face-to-face and online instruction. Visit www.GOCIAM.org or call (866) 295-5118.

CAMP SHI’INI Camp Shi’ini - Established in 1947, Camp Shi’ini is a 5-week Native American Indian themed day-camp in Pasadena’s Arroyo Seco. Camp Shi’ini offers door-to-door pickups and drop-offs in brand new vans to campers who live in the greater Pasadena area. Activities include: archery, canoeing, horseback riding, swimming, totem pole painting, hiking, bear hunting, beach trips, and an amazing month-long treasure hunt adventure! Camp Shi’ini is extremely proud of its stellar 6:1 camper-tocounselor-ratio! 1768 East Washington Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91104 (626) 922-0945 www.campshi-ini.com

COTTAGE CO-OP NURSERY SCHOOL Cottage Co-op Nursery School is an intimate community of families and teachers that embraces child-directed, creative play and nourishes our children’s curiosities that nurtures social and emotional developments, teaching key conflict resolution skills, that depends on, and supports, active parent participation in our school and accepts and celebrates the uniqueness of us all. Cottage Co-op serves children 2 years through entry into Kindergarten, has small class sizes with a capacity enrollment of 62 and has a low adult:child ratio of 1:3 for our younger students and 1:4 for our older preschoolers. 169 Arlington in Pasadena.

(626) 799-0387 www.cottagecoop.org.

DRUCKER SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT The Drucker School of Management in Claremont offers a world-class graduate management education through our MBA, Executive MBA, Financial Engineering, and Arts Management degree programs. Our programs infuse Peter Drucker’s principle of management as a liberal art along with our core strengths in strategy and leadership. We offer individualized, flexible course scheduling, an innovative curriculum focusing on values-based management, and the opportunity to learn from world-renowned faculty. To learn more, visit us at www.drucker.cgu.edu.

EMMAUS LUTHERAN SCHOOL Since 1943, Emmaus Lutheran School has nurtured students with rigorous academic standards and Christian based life skills to produce well-rounded students whose academic careers hold no limits. Our graduates go on to schools including Johns Hopkins University, West Point and USC. Before and after school care, sports, student government, field trips, music, art, and SMALL CLASSES and INDIVIDUALIZED CARE help students become anything that they want to be. Join the Emmaus family! Visit our website: www.emmauslutheranchurch.org. 840 So. Almansor St., Alhambra,Ca 91801. 626-289-3664 FLINTRIDGE MONTESSORI PRE-SCHOOL We offer one of the most outstanding Preschool and Kindergarten Montessori programs within the Los Angeles area. We serve ages 2-6 with a student capacity of 120. Our Mission is to provide children with quality education and attentive care in an atmosphere of love, which promotes learning and successful socialization. In addition to encouraging academic achievement, we strive to help the children develop joy in sharing and take pride in selfreliance. Visit us today and take a tour.

1739 Foothill Blvd. La Canada (818) 790-8844 www.Flintridge-montessori.com FULLER THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY Fuller Theological Seminary offers master’s and doctoral level education in theology, psychology, and intercultural studies. Fuller is an innovative multi-denominational seminary committed to the highest standard in academic excellence, thoughtful evangelicalism, missional and community diversity, creative engagement with the church and culture, and spiritual formation of men and women for the manifold ministry of Christ and his church.

135 N. Oakland Ave. Pasadena, CA 91101 (626) 584-5200 - www.fuller.edu HIGH POINT ACADEMY HPA has incorporated efforts to preserve the planet through earth-friendly practices into everyday curriculum. Students are taught to separate trash and learn how landfills affect the environment. The Lunch Bunch club studied problems created by trash and came up with practical solutions that students could incorporate at school and at home. Lunch Bunch submitted their results to Lexus Eco Challenge 2010-2011 and was awarded a $10,000 grant. They were also honored with Pasadena’s Outstanding Recycler award. 1720 Kinneloa Canyon Rd., Pasadena. (626)798-8989 highpointacademy.org

CHILD EDUCATION CENTER The Child Educational Center (CEC) offers stimulating before- and after-school enrichment in relaxed, child-centered environments at seven sites in Pasadena and La Canada. The program provides children in kindergarten - grade 6 with outdoor learning, excellent ratios, highly qualified teachers and a variety of activities, healthy snacks, homework support and plenty of physical activity. Transportation is provided from many area schools. The CEC also offers a dynamic summer program June 10 through August 14. www.ceconline.org (818) 354-3418

INSTITUTE FOR EDUCATONAL ADVANCEMENT IEA is an independent, national non-profit dedicated to supporting our nation's most talented young people in pursuing their full academic and personal potential. IEA matches gifted children with customized programs and services promoting academic rigor, high standards, excellence in the arts and educational innovation. These initiatives foster intellectual curiosity, the acquisition of knowledge, confidence, creativity, responsibility and moral decisiveness. IEA programs include: Apprenticeship, Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship, Academy and Yunasa Summer Camps for the Gifted. Visit www.educationaladvancement.org for more information on these and other programs and services.

CONCORDE CAREER COLLEGE – CANHY Technology, advances in medicine and population growth continue to create a high demand for skilled healthcare workers. Concorde Career Colleges has been training medical professionals nationwide to meet this demand for over 40 years. Concorde’s North Hollywood campus offers programs for Medical Assistant, Dental Assistant, Medical Office Administration and more. Call (888) 705-8635 right now and find out how you could be working in the growing healthcare field in as few as 9 months.

ISLAND PACKER CRUISE Island Packer Cruise established in 1968 is the exclusive boat concessionaire to the Channel Islands National Park and operates year around from Ventura and Channel Islands Harbor.

Half day and all day nature tours are available to hike, camp or kayak on one of five of the northern Channel Islands. Whale watching trips in summer and winter months, opportunity to view pelagic birds, dolphins, seals, sea lions and other marine wildlife year around. Also half day island wildlife cruises and dinner cruises. www.islandpackers.com (805) 642-1393.

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JUDSON INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Judson is small private TK-10th grade Christian school. Judson’s dual emphasis on Christian and International education creates a unique perspective which prepares students well for the 21st century. Our students use an investigative learning approach to explore and discover their world. The Judson experience includes a rigorous academic curriculum, field trips, speech meets, math competitions and musicals. Specialized teachers instruct in art, music, computer, PE and Spanish. Extra-curricular opportunities abound, including a flourishing sports program.

1610 E. Elizabeth St., Pasadena, Ca 91104 (626)398-2476 www.Judsonschool.org JUSTINE SHERMAN & ASSOCIATES, INC. Justine Sherman & Associates is a nonpublic agency serving the speech-language, orofacial myology, and educational needs of young toddlers through adults. We strive to provide our clients with exceptional therapy and support so that they may achieve their greatest potential. Call (626) 355-1729 or visit www.justineshermanslp.com.

KIDS ART KidsArt teaches a classical, realistic drawing and painting program. Students learn to draw and paint subjects such as still-life, the figure, landscapes, cartoons, and more. During the summer, we offer a variety of week-long summer camps. Camps are offered to children ages 4 and up, including Clay Sculpture, Anime/Cartooning, Figure Drawing, Storybook (ages 4-6), a NEW Pirates and Princesses camp, and more. Visit our website at www.kidsartclases.com for the studio location nearest you. Call today to schedule a FREE introductory class: La Crescenta 818-248-2483 • Pasadena 626-577-7802 • Arcadia 626-447-4ART(4278) THE LEARNING CASTLE/LA CANADA PREPARATORY Review, reinforcement and advancement are not only the primary goals of our SummerSchool Program, but also the fundamental ingredients for a successful transition between grades. With small, teacher-to-student ratios and an individualized approach, TLC/LCP’s program is the smart choice to keep your student sharp over summer. (818) 952-8008, (818) 952-8099 - www.thelearningcastle.com LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER ACADEMY & SPORTS CAMP La Salle High School is dedicated to excellent student performance in academics, arts and athletics. La Salle Summer Academic Institute is for 5th to 12th graders. Courses provide opportunities to hone skills and to learn new concepts in the more relaxed environment of summer. Students earn high school academic credit in some courses, and many courses satisfy UC standards. Sports Camps are available throughout the summer for student athletes. 626.696.4300. www.lasallehs.org LICE SCHMICE The Head Lice Experts provide mobile in-home head lice removal in Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Valley. They come to you! They also offer a newly opened head lice removal salon in Glendale. They use a natural enzyme treatment that is safe for the whole family. LICE SCHMICE provides daily service from 7am to 8pm. Best Google Reviews and Best Pricing in L.A. $75hr In-Home Lice Removal, $60hr Salon Lice Removal, $20 Enzyme Head Lice Check.

(818) 241-4054 or (626) 208-7635 www.liceschmice.com LINEAGE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (LPAC) LPAC is a community hub offering specialized dance classes, theatre, music and dance performances, fundraising events, film screenings and more. LPAC is home to the Lineage Dance Company, a contemporary dance company dedicated to raising support and awareness for nonprofit organizations and making the arts accessible to all. Join us April 27 for an exciting day of classes for all levels, and evening concert performances at the 6th Annual Pasadena Dance Festival at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. 89 S. Fair Oaks, Pasadena. (626) 844-7008 www.lineagedance.org.

LYCEE INTERNATIONAL Educators know that bilingual education paves more pathways in the brain resulting in better academic performance. Students at LILA (Lycée International de Los Angeles) a French-American school with four campuses (Pasadena, Los Feliz, Tarzana, Orange) benefit from a bilingual education. The goal of this Preschool–12th school is to create modern “Renaissance Students” who are able to reason clearly, think critically and creatively, and effectively express their knowledge in two languages and through two cultures. Pasadena Campus (626) 793-0943 - www.lilaschool.com OPTIONS Options – A Child Care and Human Services Agency was founded in 1981 and today serves 10,000+ children per day with 750+ professional staff. Services include: Free child care referrals for parents. Training and subsidies for licensed family child care providers to provide nutritious meals . Training and quality improvement programs for child

care providers . Voucher child care programs allowing parental choice in selecting care for their children For information, call (626) 856-5900.

PACIFIC OAKS COLLEGE Adult learners at Pacific Oaks College know from the moment they walk into the classroom, everything they’ve experienced in life matters. That’s what sets this Pasadena institution apart from the rest. Founded on principles of social justice, diversity, and an experiential learning model that values the individual, Pacific Oaks College is a nonprofit, accredited higher education institution offering bachelor’s-completion, master’s, and certificate programs in human development, counseling, education, early childhood education, and teacher credentialing. Learn about Pacific Oaks’ at pacificoaks.edu. Pacific Oaks College 55 Eureka St., Pasadena, CA 91103 (800) 201-2296 PASADENA CITY COLLEGE Founded in 1924, with a student enrollment of 267 and currently serving nearly 27,000 students, Pasadena City College offers 60 academic program areas, and 76 career and technical program areas. The college offers Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degrees, Certificates of Achievement and Occupational Skills. PCC is recognized for a high student transfer rate, and Honors at Entrance Scholarship awards and more than $28 million in student scholarships and financial aid. The College offers semester abroad in Oxford, England and Florence, Italy.

PASADENA LANGUAGE CENTER Pasadena Language Center offers language classes for kids. Languages offered: ASL, Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish. Other languages available upon request. We have a variety of kids programs: Weekend classes, After-school classes, Mommy and Me classes, Language Summer Camp. Our classes are affordable so anyone can learn a new language. We also offer classes for adults in 35 languages. 46 Smith Alley, Suite 240 • Pasadena, CA 91103 • 626-844-5003 • www.pasadenalanguage.com PASADENA WALDORF SCHOOL Pasadena Waldorf School ignites a life-long love of learning; the arts -infused curriculum advances from play-based early childhood classes to a vigorous academic program through middle and high school. Lively lessons inspire creative thinking, and students distill concepts of knowledge through joyful learning experiences. Call the Admissions Office (626794-9564) to tour the school many a parent has said is “the kind of school I wish I went to.”

209 E. Mariposa St., Altadena 91001 - www.pasadenawaldorf.org REALTIME CAPTIONING/ONPOINT CAPTIONS CLOSED-CAPTIONING, COMMUNICATION ACCESS REALTIME TRANSLATION (CART) for classrooms, businesses, neighborhood council meetings, corporate events and more! We specialize in educational captioning for ADA compliance. Based in the Crescenta Valley, Diana Brandin serves the San Gabriel Valley, Greater Los Angeles Area, Orange County (and more) onsite and remotely via the Internet. Read captions via laptop, smartphone, tablet, monitor, projector-to-screen, jumbotron and more. Please visit www.dianabrandin.com.

FREE DEMOS – call now!! 818-279-8136 SPACE - SOUTH PASADENA ARTS CENTER Change your life today by exploring the world of art. We offer workshops and classes for children and adults, including painting, drawing, ceramics, creative writing, photography and more. Plus Summer Arts Camp and Birthday Parties, check our website for more info.

SPACE is at 1506 Mission St., South Pasadena. For more information, call (626) 441-4788 or visit spaceartscenter.com ST. ELIZABETH PARISH SCHOOL A Creative Experience! The favorite place on the campus is the new Transitional Kindergarten (4 year olds)! The room is buzzing with activity and a sense of joy! Ms. Betsa, the TK teacher has a gentle spirit that permeates throughout the class. Science, math, art, language and social skills are being developed in a loving creative environment. Upper grade students, parents, and visitors are delighted by the magical experience of our TK! Come and experience it for yourself! 1840 N. Lake Avenue Altadena, CA. 90032 (626) 797-7727 www.saint-elizabeth.org WEIZMANN DAY SCHOOL Pasadena’s Weizmann Day School is a K-8 Jewish school established in 1983. The school, known for small classes, excellent teaching, enriched academic curriculum and warm community, welcomes families from Jewish, interfaith and diverse backgrounds.

Weizmann graduates transition seamlessly to leading private secondary schools and public school honors and gifted programs. Alumni have gone on to attend selective universities including UC Berkeley, USC, NYU and Columbia. Learn more at www.weizman.net or please call (626) 797-0204.

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Learning for Life

PHOTO: Stockbyte

CONTINUING EDUCATION CAN GIVE EMPLOYEES AN EDGE IN THE WORKPLACE A volatile economy and tough job market have revived American workers' interest in continuing education. Now more than ever, adults are returning to educational environments to advance their skills, training and knowledge.districts.

“Continuing education generally refers to any type of postsecondary education for the purpose of keeping current with changes in a particular field of study or for preparation to obtain a certification,” says Dr. Marianne Greenfield, a program chair at Argosy University, Atlanta. “Some professions require that you earn continuing education credits in order to maintain a license.

The goal of continuing education is to offer adults who already possess a college or university degree further opportunity for learning without having to enroll in a degree program.”

“Now more than ever, it's important for employees and professionals to keep up with all the latest skills and relevant knowledge necessary to compete in today's workforce,” says Dr. George Spagnola, chair of the College of Education at Argosy University, Sarasota. “While a traditional education is necessary in today's workforce, it is also a cornerstone upon which one can build a better future through continuing education.”

Greenfield agrees. “As more and more people are obtaining academic degrees, the advantage lies with the candidate whose skills and knowledge are current and relevant in the workplace,” she says.

“Continuing education is especially important in areas such as human resources, engineering, technology, finance and health care, where rapid advances occur, leading to constantly evolving practices.” For many professions, certifications and licenses are requirements for employment opportunities, so continuing education is important for job seekers and professionals in those fields.

And obtaining continuing education is more convenient for learners. “Advances in technology have made continuing education more accessible,” says Spagnola. “Options are available to pursue continuing education online, at a physical location or in a

combination of both. These technology breakthroughs help so many to continue their education and advance their professional knowledge while working and raising a family.”

Given the number of people raising families and working, that flexibility of education can be key to continuing education success.

Look for an institution or provider that can meet your educational needs while still allowing you to meet your personal and professional obligations. “Seek out a student-centered institution that meets your needs both academically and non-academically,” says Spagnola.

“Although there are many course providers who cater to those seeking continuing education, it is important to find an accredited institution to ensure your efforts yield results,” says Greenfield.

“Look for programs that offer you access to and learning from quality instructors with real-life experience in the specific field of study.” Make sure that the program you are considering is compatible with any requirements you will face for licensure.

And while there are costs associated with continuing education, many people can find financial assistance in the form of tuition assistance programs offered through their employers. “Tuition assistance programs are of huge benefit to employees and the company,” says Spagnola. “As an employee, you receive financial assistance for your education and your employer, in turn, gets an employee advancing their knowledge and skills and applying them to the organizations.”

“The benefits far outweigh the expense and many private sector employers will pay for or reimburse the expense if a compelling case is made for the added competitive advantage for the organization,” agrees Greenfield. “And if your employer isn't able to assist you with the costs, the Internal Revenue Service allows you to deduct a portion of qualifying continuing education expenses on your federal tax return. If you pay the expense on behalf of a spouse or a dependent child, you can also claim the deduction.” ■ Courtesy Brandpoint E D U C A T I O N G U I D E 2 0 1 3 P A S A D E N A W E E K L Y • 23

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Survey says…

SLOAN CONSORTIUM RELEASES RESULTS OF 10-YEAR STUDY OF ONLINE LEARNING

BY REBECCA KUZINS

The number of students taking online courses has substantially increased in the past decade and is a crucial part of the long-term instructional strategy for universities and colleges across the nation, including Pasadena City College and Caltech.

According to the survey “Changing Course: Ten Years of Online Education in the United States,” sponsored by the Sloan Consortium and conducted by the independent Babson Survey Research Group, 6.7 million students were enrolled in online courses in 2012, compared with only 1.6 million in 2012. In the same 10-year period, the percentage of students taking at least one online course rose from 9.6 percent to 32 percent.

Assessing students’ readiness for online coursework is a focus of discussion on the Web site for PCC Online, the PCC division that administers distance education programs. The site provides self-assessment tools that help students determine if they are comfortable with technology, possess time management and communication skills and have learning styles that will enable them to succeed in online programs.

According to a PCC spokesman, about 10,000 students each semester enroll in classes that are either completely online, are hybrids, which combine computerized instruction with in-class sessions, or are telecourses, in which instruction is available via inclass lectures, DVDs and video streaming. About 200 online classes are available each semester, and the school will add more than 40 others in its late-spring and summer terms.

Online courses can be more convenient, the spokesman continues, enabling students to “have 24/7 access through the Internet and mobile apps.” Online instruction enables students to have “increased interaction with instructors and students through

online discussions and collaborative projects,” and gives students a range of learning activities to accommodate their needs, he adds.

In comparison, Caltech provides far fewer online classes, including some massive open online courses (MOOCs). A relatively new creation, MOOCs are prepared and offered by for-profit companies and are available free, usually without academic credit, to large numbers of students. “They may have as many as 50,000 students enrolled in a single course,” explains I. Elaine Allen, a professor and co-director of the Babson Survey Research Group.

Caltech currently offers three classes sponsored by Coursera, a Mountain View-based company that provides MOOCs to more than 30 universities. A Caltech spokeswoman says the school “recognizes that some courses may benefit from massive online enrollment” because “a large number of online students creates a large sample size if you are doing a poll or asking for input from students. This bigger data set can have advantages for teaching some concepts.”

Caltech also offers some course content and lectures through iTunes and YouTube, and for the past several years has taught another course, Learning from Data, offered to students worldwide.

This course allows participants to hear the same lectures and do the same homework as students on campus.

While Caltech is evaluating the potential to expand its online offerings, the spokeswoman says some classes do not lend themselves to this format, such as the introductory chemistry labs and the robotics design contest. “Freshman seminar courses are designed to be small and very interactive, and that needs to be experienced in-person,” she adds. “Caltech also offers courses with a field component that must be attended in-person, such as geology courses, where students learn to interpret geologic formations.” ■ E D U C A T I O N G U I D E 2 0 1 3 P A S A D E N A W E E K L Y • 25

Upward bound EAGLE ROCK TEACHER GOES THE EXTRA MILE TO GET MORE STUDENTS ENROLLED IN COLLEGE

It takes dedication to be an effective teacher, and Eagle Rock High School’s Susan Ward-Roncalli has that in spades. The 26-year Eagle Rock veteran wants to see as many students as possible go to an institution of higher learning. That’s why, when the federal grant for the GEAR UP program recently ran out after 10 years, she committed time out of her already busy schedule to keep the mentoring component of the program alive.

The GEAR UP program was designed to encourage more students to attend post-secondary institutions. Out of that program, Ward-Roncalli has maintained a group of about 100 juniors and seniors who go into seventh-grade classrooms and teach mentoring lessons, strategies for academics and how to avoid bullying, among other topics. With her help, a small group designs the lessons, which they then share with the larger group.

“For seventh-graders, it’s starting that process of eventually going to college,” Ward-Roncalli says. “They see that these juniors and seniors are academically oriented and they talk to the seventh-graders about how important it is to get involved with academics and sports and to keep their grades up. Having it come from other teenagers has a bigger impact than just adults telling them again and again.”

Under Ward-Roncalli, a service learning coordinator, students learn content objectives by performing a service for their community, she explains. All seniors must complete a service learning project, and with roughly 500 kids, that can be quite a task.

“For example, if they were learning about nutrition, they could put together a food basket for the homeless that would meet nutritional guidelines, versus making a poster where they show their knowledge,” says Ward-Roncalli, adding that it’s sometimes difficult to get outside agencies to participate. “We’ve had partnerships with Habitat for Humanity, through our woodshop 26 • P A S A D E N A W E E K L Y E D U C A T I O N G U I D E 2 0 1 3

class, through our gardening and horticulture class; we do some LA Food Bank stuff and Cell Phones for Soldiers through US History classes when they’re talking about different wars. We try to have some connections, but it’s kind of challenging because of the time limitations.”

She said students are not enthusiastic about these community service-based projects until they actually do them and realize the good they’re doing.

“They moan and groan and then they get out there and actually see a live person that they’re helping and think, ‘Oh, this isn’t so bad,’” she says.

Students also work closely with LA County and the city of Los Angeles as poll workers. Registrars recruit high school students to work for the elections — they get their service learning project done, get paid and are more likely to vote afterward, the teacher says.

Ward-Roncalli turned an American literature class into an advanced placement class for juniors, including students who never thought they’d take an AP class. In order to convince them to move on to the senior AP class, she made a bargain that she would go with them. More than 85 percent of the students stayed with her.

“So they’ll have two AP classes under their belt when they go to college,” says Ward-Roncalli, who tied with fellow Eagle Rock High teacher Laurie Bollman-Little for Teacher of the Year in Pasadena Weekly’s annual Best of Pasadena contest in 2011.

“They haven’t had much exposure to rich literature or the opportunity to do a lot of writing. We have to sort of supplement.

We’ll sit here as long as it takes to make up work so they will get college credit, and it takes all of both of our energy to have them write essays that are good enough, but they’re willing to stay and do it. They’re sort of connected now, they’re a team here, but it does take a lot of energy to build that team.” ■

PHOTO: Mercedes Blackehart

BY JUSTIN CHAPMAN

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