Grapevine Winter 2019
C E N T R A L
U N I F I E D
S C H O O L
D I S T R I C T
Table of Contents Superintendent’s Message........................................3
Athletics.............................................................................6-8
CHS NAMI Club..................................................................4
School News............................................................... 9-23
CHS Advanced Placement Program ....................5
DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION Andrew G. Alvarado
Dr. Tami Boatright
Superintendent
Director of K-8 Education
Ketti Davis
Assistant Superintendent, Educational Services
Paul Birrell
Director of 7-12 and Adult Education
Jack Kelejian
Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources
2019 GOVERNING BOARD OF TRUSTEES Terry Cox, President Yesenia Z. Carrillo, Vice-President Jason R. Paul, Clerk Richard Atkins Phillip Cervantes Naindeep Singh Chann Richard A. Solis
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE Sonja Dosti
Communications and Public Relations Officer
Jason Smithberg Digital Communications and Social Media Clerk Ashley Goldsmith, Intern (Fresno State) Isabella Aguila, Intern (Central High School - East)
CENTRAL UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 4605 N. Polk Avenue Fresno, CA 93722 Telephone: 559-274-4700 Fax: 559-271-8200 info@centralusd.k12.ca.us
PROGRAMS PROGRAMS SUPPORTED BY SUPPORTED BY THE THE FOUNDATION FOUNDATION SummerLibrary Library Program Summer Summer Library Program Program Teacher Grants Central Coats for Central Coats for Kids Kids PROGRAMS Peach Ag DayBlossom and FFA Festival programs Peach Blossom Festival SUPPORTED Young AuthorsBY FaireTHE Peach Blossom Young AuthorsFestival Faire Science & Engineering Young Authors’ FaireFair FOUNDATION Science & Engineering Fair Janessa Ramirez Program History Day Janessa Ramirez Program Summer Project Library Program 720 Spelling Bee Project 720 History Day Central Coats forFair, Kids STEM Events: Science RobotHistory Day ics, Odyssey of the Mind, Spring Ag Day PeachOlympaid Blossom Festival Spring Ag Day Science & Hour of Code Agriculture Field Day Young Authors Agriculture Field Day San Joaquin ValleyFaire TourHonor Band nament ofBand Bands Honor Science & Engineering Fair Elementary Music Program Music Festivals Elementary Music Program Medals JanessaVictory Ramirez Program Dance FestivalsMedals and workshops Victory Project 720 Victory Medals www.centralfoundation.org
Day www.centralfoundation.org JanessaHistory Ramirez Scholarship Fund
CoatsAg for Kids Spring Day Holiday Joy Agriculture Field Day CentralHonor Unified Band School District is grateful to the parent-volunteers of Elementary Program the FoundationMusic for Central Schools for their Victory hard work Medals in raising funds to
enhance the education of our students!
www.centralfoundation.org Central Unified School District
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MESSAGE FROM SUPERINTENDENT ANDREW G. ALVARADO
Central Unified is a school district with a strong sense of community. From my first day last year as Superintendent, I was warmly welcomed by staff, parents, students, and community members. Working within the District has allowed me to interact with an incredible, diverse group of people. I’m encouraged by the growth that has already taken place in our District and I’m excited to continue building on these areas. Accordingly, our theme for the 2019-20 school year is “Building on the Best”. We’ve taken this quite literally through the opening of Tilley Elementary’s new campus at the start of the year and the groundbreaking of our new high school. The new high school will be a crown jewel of the Central Valley, marked by a beautiful performing arts center, an outdoormall-style cafeteria, and other state-of-the-art features. We are committed to meeting our goals in the construction of this high school as well as representing the community through our New High School Transition Committee. We are also building on successful programs such as our reading labs. Last school year, we implemented these labs in seven elementary schools. All seven schools experienced gains in both English language arts and mathematics. This year, we’ve implemented reading labs in all of our 14 elementary schools as well as our three middle schools. Another way we build on the best is through uplifting leaders in the District. We’ve imple-
mented the Aspiring Administrators Program, a cohort of District employees who are interested in pursuing their credentials to become administrators. Central is also privileged to welcome five new principals to our schools, many of whom have worked in Central Unified for several years. Every new principal has a coach, a retired administrator, who provides them with mentorship and support in their role. In addition to empowering students and staff, we’re devoted to strengthening relationships with parents. This school year, Central Unified has fully implemented the use of ParentSquare, a communication platform that provides direct communication between principals, teachers, parents, and students. Many parents have shared that the program is already helping them to feel more involved in the lives of their students. We’re dedicated to the continued development of integral programs such as our Attention 2 Attendance campaign, which is focused on reducing the chronic absentee rate and increasing attendance across the District from 95% to 97%. We will continue to focus on early literacy growth, improved performance in ELA and mathematics, career and college readiness, and increased graduation rates. The achievement of these goals is only possible with the continued partnership of our excellent students, parents, teachers, and staff. It’s a privilege to serve you for the second year. Let’s continue building on the best!
Cover Photos: The Tilley Panther community celebrated the completion and opening of its new facility at the ribbon-cutting event on August 8. Designed by TAM+CZ Architects and built by Harris Construction, the facility is 79,000 square feet, has 31 classrooms, and is the first two-story building in Central Unified. Students from the Central Danzantes de Tláloc attend the groundbreaking of the new high school. Central Unified School District
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Central High forms a NAMI Club CENTRAL HIGH’S NAMI CLUB BRINGS AWARENESS DURING SUICIDE PREVENTION MONTH
Central High School’s National Alliance on Mental Illness club (NAMI) is run by Monica Monroy Cervantes, the East Campus Psychologist. Throughout the year, club members work hard to show their support and make students feel included. The main goal of the club is to bring attention to mental health and provide a safe space for students to be themselves.
From Left: Naiyla Dixon is signing The County of Fresno Department of Behavioral Health green car to show her support for mental health.
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s Shawn Suarez signs the green car to show his support of stopping the stigma of mental illness. s
NAMI Club members at their information booth selling club t-shirts at Central High’s East Campus.
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The County of Fresno Department of Behavioral Health offered students information about mental health during Suicide Prevention Week.
NAMI works to stop the stigma of mental illness and informs students about the importance of mental health and self-care. The club continues to shift social barriers to create a positive environment for everyone. During Suicide Awareness Month in September, NAMI planned a week of dressup days and set up information booths. They coordinated a visit from Fresno’s Department of Behavioral Health and made a wall of helping hands with the help of the Peer Connectors. Their September activities spread the word across campus about the importance of mental health and they look forward to planning more events like these for Central High students. The NAMI Club is already planning an engaging scavenger hunt that will take place during Mental Health Awareness Month in May.
Written by Isabella Aguila, a junior at Central High School-East Campus. She is on the Central High Pep and Cheer team, is the Public Relations Commissioner of East Campus leadership, and is currently a high school intern at the Central Unified School District’s Communications office.
Central Unified School District
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CENTRAL UNIFIED CHS Advanced Placement Program CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS SUCCEED AT THE HIGHEST LEVELS
Central High School is committed to meeting the needs of all of its students. One area that has given the school much pride is its Advanced Placement program. Central High School students can enroll in Advanced Placement courses for various core and elective subjects. These courses are taught at a rigorous college level and students enrolled take an exam at the end of the course. In addition, these exams can earn college credits for students who score 3, 4 or 5. CHS teachers and administration are working hard to provide an even richer learning experience for their AP students. Teachers meet quarterly to align curriculum and plan lessons intended to expose students to college-level courses that foster critical thinking skills. Former AP students state they are grateful to their AP teachers for providing them with skills they can easily implement into higher learning. Below are other exciting facets of Central High School’s AP program for the 2019-2020 school year: Students registered in the fall for their AP exams using their personal College Board® accounts.
AP Scholars with Honors Saira Ambriz Tyree D. Byrd Jose D. Deleon Gillian P. Hinton Tara R. Kent Muskaan K Nijjar Michael A. Rindlisbacher Harjot S. Thiara
s Sarah Yribarren was the 2019 National AP Scholar and Wei Ji Chen was an AP Scholar with Distinction.
AP teachers will continue to work with Albert.io and other monitoring programs to support students in preparing for their exams. Counselors at Central High School are looking forward to hosting more Parent Nights to inform the Central community about academic success. Below are lists of Central High School students who received commendations from the College Board® for their exceptional performance in the last academic school year:
National AP Scholar Sarah R. Yribarren
AP Scholars with Distinction Hodda M. Alazani Yahya M. Alazani Nathan Cervantes Derek F. Chan Luis Chavez Wei Ji Chen Anna Q. Cousineau Juana M. Cruz Maura A Cruz
Avijeet S. Dhaliwal Helen H. Flores Cueto Nathan L. Hernandez Logan N. Kaleva Ashley N. Keobounnam Sonia Khalid Isabella L. Sandoval Gursahil S. Sran Bryan Wu Adam J. Yribarren Emily G. Yribarren Central Unified School District
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CENTRAL UNIFIED Athletics Corner ELEMENTARY & MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETICS
Elementary and middle school athletes in Central Unified had a busy fall semester! October was a full month for elementary athletics with the Championship Jamboree on October 25. Cross-country and football took place at Deran Koligian stadium while volleyball championships were held at East campus. Basketball players started to practice on November 4.
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Middle school sports completed their Central Valley Athletic League (CVAL) seasons with playoffs and championship games. Girls and boys cross-country teams had their championship meet on October 31 at Woodward Park. The boys and girls water polo playoffs started on October 30 and November 1 at the higher seeds pool.
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Rio Vista student-athlete/ cross-country runner, Keira Sorenson Biola-Pershing football team on their new field Biola-Pershing cheerleaders rooting on the football team
The girls’ golf team teed it up on October 22 at Madera Municipal golf course for their championship finale. Girls tennis finished with an individual tournament on October 19 and the girls’ volleyball playoffs commenced October 21 with championship games on October 23 at the higher seeds gym. Finally, football playoffs were held on October 26 and the championship game took place on November 2. Central Unified is proud of these young athletes and looks forward to supporting their hard work through the rest of the 2019-2020 school year! Home Sweet Home In ten years of elementary sports, Biola-Pershing Elementary School has never had a home football game until this year. Biola-Pershing families and staff had to decide whether or not to watch football at the Central High- West campus or stay at Biola-Pershing to watch volleyball or cross-country.
The Jaguar community no longer needs to make that decision. Biola-Pershing now has its own field on campus! Several parents and community members have said, “Finally, a game at home!” Biola-Pershing quarterback, Jesus Carbajal, stated, “It’s great to play a game on our own field so we can play how we practice.” There is no place like home! Not Your Average Student-Athlete Being a student-athlete requires more than putting hours into a sport. Yes, it entails practicing every day, dealing with injuries, travel, and weekly competitions. But it also means getting home two hours Central Unified School District
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later than an average student while also keeping up on school work. This takes discipline, organization, and a love for sports and education, all qualities that eighth-grader, Keira Sorenson, exemplifies. Keira has been very successful in cross-country and track and field since elementary school. During her sixth grade year, she won the Central Unified School District Cross-Country Championship over a 2K course then won the 800m and 1500m events at the District Track Championships. “Keira is everything you look for in an athlete. She has a competitive attitude and is coachable,” says her Rio Vista coach, Michael Hess. Last year, as a seventh-grader at Rio Vista, she finished in second place at the CVAL Cross-Country Championships, then went on to the Junior Olympics to compete. At the CVAL Track Championships, she won the 800m, 1500m and was on the winning 4x400 relay team. She achieved all of this while maintaining a 4.0 GPA, taking accelerated courses, and staying involved with leadership at Rio Vista. Striving to be the best in the classroom and on the field is an enormous goal. It is one that Keira has taken on and continues to pursue with the help of her teachers, coaches, and family.
TEFFRA BROTHERS CENTRAL DISTANCE RUNNING ROYALTY
When asked what motivates all seven of his children to run, the proud patriarch of the Teffra family, Teffra Belete, replies with a smile, “They run because they love to do it! I never have to convince them or make them run or go to practice. It all comes from them!” Although born and raised here in the Central Valley, the Teffras show great pride in their Ethiopian heritage. Ethiopia is known internationally for producing distance runners who dominate on the world stage, earning countless Olympic medals and holding numerous world records. The Teffra brothers are making their own mark here in the district and are rewriting Central Unified’s distance running record books along the way. Central’s Varsity Boys cross-country team is currently comprised of the three eldest Teffra brothers: Abel, Abe, and Aron. Abel, the eldest Teffra brother, is blazing a trail for his younger siblings to follow. He is currently being recruited by several universities and is looking to earn a scholarship to continue his running career at the collegiate level. Abel currently holds six Grizzly cross-country records and every Central Track & Field distance running records that exists (800, 1600, Mile, 3200). In 2018, during his junior year, Abel qualified for the State Cross-Country Championships, finishing 22nd out of 203 Division III runners. In the 1600m, Abel took third at the Track and Field Valley Championships and finished 15th overall in that event at the 2019 CIF State Track & Field Championships. Abe, currently an 11th grader at Central, is ranked second and third on Central’s all-time list in the 3200 and 1600m respectively and is ranked among the top five all-time at Central for every cross-country
distance race he has run. Abe plans to follow in his older brother’s footsteps and hopes to earn a scholarship and run collegiately as well. Aron, a 10th grader, is undoubtedly looking at his older brothers’ records and waiting for his chance to step into the spotlight and snag some records of his own. In all, there are seven Teffra siblings and currently, three are competing for the high school, two for Glacier Point Middle School, and one for Polk Elementary. Abel and Abe are likely not the last Teffras whose names will be written at the top of record books! CRAB FEED
On Friday, September 27, 2019 at Holland Park West, Central High School’s Athletics Department hosted its 10th Annual Crab Feed fundraiser dinner. More than 600 people attended this festive event filled with great food, quality silent auction items, and dancing. All the proceeds raised enables the athletics department to purchase equipment, uniforms, and other items that student-athletes need throughout the year.
Central Unified School District
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sTeffra Brothers, From left to right: Abe, Abel, Aron s Crab Feed- Silent auction items are among the highlights at the annual Crab Feed dinner s Crab Feed- Athletic Directors Daren Pittman and Rayshawn Hightower
CENTRAL UNIFIED Athletics Corner NEW CENTRAL COACHES We would like to welcome the following new Directors of Sports for the 2019-2020 season: Matt Terra- Director of Sport, Girls Volleyball Paul Kariuki- Director of Sport, Girls Basketball Alex Stangby- Director of Sport, Girls Soccer
ATHLETE OF THE YEAR 2018-2019 Last year, we honored our male and female athlete of the year for the 2018-2019 season. Male Athlete of the Year- Trent Tompkins Female Athlete of the Year- Madison Steinmann
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From left: Matt Terra-Director of Sport, Girls Volleyball Alex Stangby-Director of Sport, Girls Soccer Paul Kariuki-Director of Sport, Girls Basketball
This award is given to one student-athlete. These student-athletes were nominated during their season by coaches for demonstrating excellence in the following areas:
EXCELLENCE IN THE CLASSROOM 1. A cademics- Shows a strong commitment to their schoolwork. 2. A ttitude- Demonstrates the ability to be a good, responsible learner. 3. A ttendance- Shows a commitment to being at school and on time.
Central Unified School District
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CITIZENSHIP 1. R espect- Treats all people equally and willingly listens to their ideas and concerns. 2. S acrifice- Willingly helps others when they can’t do so themselves. 3. M odesty- Demonstrates pride, but is humble and well-mannered when doing so.
ATHLETIC SUCCESS 1. H as a high level of success in interscholastic athletics. 2. H as the ability to make their athletic teams compete at a high level through the use of their skills and abilities.
SPORT REQUIREMENTS 1. A student-athlete must compete in the winter interscholastic sports sanctioned by the CIF. 2. A student-athlete must regularly compete against opposing athletes of opposing schools within CIF rules and guidelines. (play in the majority of the games) 3. A student-athlete must demonstrate that he/ she is a leader during competition by improving the play of his/her teammates.
CENTRAL UNIFIED School News BIOLA-PERSHING WELCOMES A NEW PRINCIPAL
At six-years-old, Chelan Shepherd knew she wanted to work in the education field. She often played “classroom” and loved pretending to be a teacher. Since then, Shepherd worked for 15 years in the Golden Valley School District and about 20 total years in education before taking the job of principal at Biola-Pershing this year. According to Shepherd, Biola-Pershing is the “educational Disneyland” or the “Happiest Place on Earth”. Shepherd is struck by Biola-Pershing’s family atmosphere and points out that teachers treat their students with the same care they show their own children. Older students look out for their younger friends on the playground and parents care for each others’ kids. Teaching fellows have said that Biola-Pershing is the friendliest school they have visited! Raised by a single, hardworking mom, Shepherd has a deep understanding of the transformational power of education. She knows that her education allowed her to move beyond focusing on survival to actively pursuing growth and she wants to help others do the same. Shepherd’s passion is evident in the way she cheers on her staff and students. She looks at issues from various perspectives, regularly asks teachers what she can do to help them, and encourages change if it leads to positive change for students. Over the course of the 2019-2020 school year, Shepherd wants to see a continued increase in student attendance and decreased behavioral struggles through intervention programs. She believes that by maintaining a positive, safe culture, Biola-Pershing will experience continued academic growth and a strengthened community.
EL CAPITAN MIDDLE SCHOOL FROM WEST TO EAST, PRINCIPAL DETTMAN MAKES THE MOVE TO EL CAPITAN
First-year principal, Brenton Dettman of El Capitan Middle School, knows that parent involvement and the thoughtful use of data are vital to student success. Dettman has worked in the Central Unified School District since 2007 and came to El Capitan after serving as Vice-Principal of Central High School – West campus. This experience has given him a better understanding of what middle schoolers need to be successful in high school and beyond. One important goal for Dettman is increasing communication with parents. He also wants to ensure that all students are tested in reading and given the appropriate interventions that will help them to improve. He is passionate about collecting data in areas of academic achievement but also through using tools such as parent surveys to measure family satisfaction. Dettman is committed to educating El Capitan’s staff and students about safety procedures while also promoting social and emotional health. One way he plans to do this is through increased club participation. He’s encouraging teachers to organize clubs based on their interests and even hopes to start a club surrounding his favorite sport: disk golf! Another extracurricular activity Dettman is excited about is El Capitan’s partnership with McKinley Elementary through Reading Buddies. This program allows El Capitan to go to their neighboring elementary school and read books with kindergarteners. Middle schoolers are able to grow in leadership as they watch the influence their behavior has on their young friends. Dettman is excited to build on the best at El Capitan this year with a strategic and intentional approach. Central Unified School District
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El Capitan Principal Brent Dettman with a frisbee used for his favorite sport, frisbee golf
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BIOLA-PERSHING ELEMENTARY
t Biola-Pershing Principal Chelan Shepherd with her students
CENTRAL UNIFIED School News C.L.A.S.S. CENTRAL ALTERNATIVE/ OPPORTUNITY:
This school year, C.L.A.S.S. has modified its independent study program. Students still attend once a week but now work with designated subject teachers to complete their weekly credits. They check in at the beginning of their appointment with a homeroom teacher. During this time, students receive general announcements, go over the past week, and plan the daily appointment schedule with their teacher. Once that is completed, students meet with their subject teachers. This allows students to receive regular instruction from an expert in the subject matter rather than simply having access to them on an as-needed basis. C.L.A.S.S. also added a new teacher, Cristopher Tillery, a new psychologist, Genesee Mendez, and a new speech therapist, Allison Stoddard.
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Adult students improving their computer skills
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Mr. Forbes working with an independent study student Mrs. Marks meets with a student
The home-school liaison has been conducting a monthly “Coffee with Parents� hour. Each month features a speaker who will focus on a different strategy for parents to use that will help their students to become more successful. C.L.A.S.S. is looking forward to an exciting year and to celebrating many achievements and graduates! CENTRAL ADULT EDUCATION:
The adult program is starting the year with some new and exciting programs. Some of the new offerings are classes in citizenship, additional ESL opportunities, Spanish GED/HiSet preparation, technology, medical terminology, and expanded distance learning opportunities. There is an open lab time in the computer lab allowing students to make use of technology to enhance their learning. The adult education staff is excited to meet the educational needs of their adult population during the upcoming semester!
Central Unified School District 10 www.centralunified.org
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GLACIER POINT MIDDLE SCHOOL
HARVEST ELEMENTARY
This year, Glacier Point started the WEB, “Where Everybody Belongs,” program. WEB is a middle school orientation and transition program that welcomes seventh graders and makes them feel comfortable throughout the first year of their middle school experience. Built on the belief that students can help other students succeed, the program trains mentors from the eighth grade class to be WEB Leaders.
Glacier’s WEB program is one of the many ways they are cultivating a welcoming, positive environment for students!
Harvest is committed to building a positive school culture. Staff members were thrilled to welcome all of their new students and families to the community and school. At the beginning of the year, the students received a special visit from Kevin Bracy, their greatness coach. He spoke to the students about believing in themselves, being kind to one another, and reaching for greatness. Throughout the year, Coach Bracy will continue to visit and build on the positivity.
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Over 250 seventhgraders and 60 eighth grade leaders attended Glacier Point’s first-ever WEB (Where Everybody Belongs) event.
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Harvest Character award winners for Respect Students applying real world math application with decimals and time trails with cars
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Harvest students are a big reason for the school’s success! Twenty-seven leadership students stepped up as the welcome ambassadors, greeting students before school and serving as buddies to new students. They planned fun activities like dress-up days and service projects to make the community a better place. Harvest wants their students to create positive changes on the campus, in the city, and throughout the world by taking initiative and being kind. Harvest Hawks are soaring!
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At Glacier Point’s orientation, held before school started, over 250 seventh-graders attended and played games, took tours, and interacted with over 60 WEB Leaders. On the first day of school, the WEB leaders wore their special shirts so the seventh-graders knew who to ask for help. In September, WEB hosted a seventh-grade dance with over 200 students and WEB Leaders in attendance.
E-cigarettes and Youth: What Parents Need to Know WHAT ARE E-CIGARETTES? Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are battery-powered devices that deliver nicotine, flavorings, and other ingredients to the user. Using e-cigarettes is sometimes called “vaping.” E-cigarettes do not create harmless “water vapor” – they create an aerosol that can contain harmful chemicals.
HOW MANY YOUTH ARE USING E-CIGARETTES?
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E-cigarettes have been the most commonly used tobacco product among U.S. youth since 2014. In 2018, CDC and FDA data showed that more than 3.6 million U.S. youth, including 1 in 5 high school students and 1 in 20 middle school students, were past-month e-cigarette users. During 2017 and 2018, e-cigarette use skyrocketed among youth, leading the U.S. Surgeon General to call the use of these products among youth an epidemic in the United States.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS FOR YOUTH?
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Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. Nicotine exposure during adolescence can: »
Harm brain development, which continues until about age 25.
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Impact learning, memory, and attention.
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Increase risk for future addiction to other drugs.
Young people who use e-cigarettes may be more likely to go on to use regular cigarettes. Many e-cigarettes come in kid-friendly flavors – including mango, fruit, and crème – which make e-cigarettes more appealing to young people. E-cigarette aerosol is not harmless. It can contain harmful substances, including: »
Nicotine
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Ultrafine particles
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Cancer-causing chemicals
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Flavorings that have been linked to lung disease
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Volatile organic compounds
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Heavy metals such as nickel, tin, and lead
www.CDC.gov/e-cigarettes Central Unified School District
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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WHAT DO E-CIGARETTES LOOK LIKE?
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E-cigarettes come in many shapes and sizes. Some look like regular cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. Larger e-cigarettes such as tank systems – or “mods” – do not look like other tobacco products. Some e-cigarettes look like other items commonly used by youth, such as pens and other everyday items. New e-cigarettes shaped like USB flash drives are popular among youth, including JUUL and the PAX Era, which looks like JUUL and delivers marijuana.
WHAT CAN YOU DO AS A PARENT OR CAREGIVER? As a parent or caregiver, you have an important role in protecting children from e-cigarettes. »
Talk to your child or teen about why e-cigarettes are harmful for them. It’s never too late.
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Set a good example by being tobacco-free.
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Learn about the different shapes and types of e-cigarettes and the risks of e-cigarette use for young people at www.CDC.gov/e-cigarettes.
www.CDC.gov/e-cigarettes
ABOUT USB FLASH DRIVE-SHAPED E-CIGARETTES As a parent or caregiver, you may have heard about the use of USB flash drive-shaped e-cigarettes, including JUUL (pronounced “jewel”). JUUL is the top-selling e-cigarette brand in the United States. JUUL is being used by students in schools, including in classrooms and bathrooms. JUUL’s nicotine liquid refills are called “pods.” According to the manufacturer, a single JUUL pod can contain as much nicotine as a pack of 20 regular cigarettes. JUUL delivers nicotine in a new form called “nicotine salts,” which can make it less harsh on the throat and easier to use by youth. JUUL also comes in flavors that can appeal to youth.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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CENTRAL UNIFIED School News HERNDON-BARSTOW ELEMENTARY
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Herndon-Barstow believes that showing up for school matters. Students can’t benefit from highquality instruction and engaging, rigorous curriculum unless they are in their classrooms. As early as the first month of school, chronic absences (missing 10 percent or more of school days) can be an early warning sign of academic trouble. Children who miss too many days of school often struggle to read proficiently. Herndon-Barstow is dedicated to ensuring that their Lobos show up to class every day.
Herndon-Barstow student winners, Nehemiah Burrus & Neaven Lopez, from the PBIS Assembly
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Herndon-Barstow strives to improve student attendance which aligns with the district’s overall approach to promote academic achievement. The positive school culture helps students to become more invested in their learning and excited about attending school. When students feel safe, welcomed, and supported, it nurtures the behaviors that create a positive school culture. Herndon-Barstow staff want Lobo scholars to be in school every day, learning from their choices. This is why they rely on proactive approaches to resolving issues and cultivating good attendance at their site. At Herndon-Barstow, Lobos know that good attendance and great behavior equals student success at school! Central Unified School District 14 www.centralunified.org
HOUGHTON-KEARNEY K-8 HOUGHTON-KEARNEY HAS A NEW TIGER AT THE HELM Ezequiel Gutierrez’s passion for the education field was sparked while serving in a teaching role during college. He later worked as an English and religion teacher at San Joaquin Memorial High School and a VicePrincipal at Central High School-East. Going into his first year as principal of Houghton-Kearney K-8, Gutierrez heard many positive things about the school. He’s excited to confirm the rumors are true. Houghton-Kearney is full of dedicated families with strong ties to the community and students who go into high school prepared for success. Gutierrez speaks highly of the programs Houghton-Kearney has in place that help cultivate a positive, secure environment. B y demonstrating the school’s core values, Positivity, Responsibility, Integrity, Discipline, and Excellence, students earn tiger bucks or “G Money” that they turn in on Fun Friday for prizes. Another program that is largely driven by students is the Kindness Initiative. The first phase of this initiative is called PAWS (Positive Affirmations Win Smiles), which focuses on demonstrating kindness through words. Students practiced this by giving encouraging notes to classmates and teachers. The next phase of the Kindness Initiative will focus on expressing kindness through actions. A successful year in Gutierrez’s eyes would be one marked by academic growth and enthusiasm in students who are eager to come back to school. To achieve this, Gutierrez plans to be as collaborative and available as possible. With an approach of humble servant-leadership, Guiterrez is guiding Houghton-Kearney toward growth during the 2019 - 2020 school year.
LIDDELL ELEMENTARY The Liddell Lions started off the year with a focus on improving attendance. Their goal is to reach at least 97% of students in overall yearly attendance. Attending school regularly helps students to feel better about school and themselves. To encourage this, Liddell has started a friendly competition. Every month, both the lower and upper grade levels with the highest attendance will be celebrated in the morning announcements and given a trophy.
Liddell is committed to making school a place where students love to be!
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In addition, students with the highest attendance rate each month will have their names entered into a drawing for a prize. Students with the highest attendance rate for the year, along with most improved attendance, will also be celebrated.
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Kindness rally and Houghton-Kearney Tiger Principal Gutierrez Rock your school camping theme day Houghton-Kearney Carnival Principal Gutierrez
t Liddell Lions reading together. Liddell attendance board in the cafeteria
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CENTRAL UNIFIED School News
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Mother Goose reading to Madison students during Family Literacy Night.
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t Madison Passport Day Madelyn Yaj dressed as her favorite superhero, Dr. Temple Grandin. Superhero “Guardian” visited McKinley to teach kids how to be true HEROs by Helping Everyone Respect Others. Students and teachers also dressed up as their favorite heroes.
MADISON ELEMENTARY
MCKINLEY ELEMENTARY
Madison kicked off the year with a Disney theme, teaching their students how Walt Disney made his dreams come true. Through participating in their career-based after school programs, students have had opportunities to learn about areas that interest them such as running small businesses or producing network news programs. The fabulous after school program is a finalist this year for the After School Program of the Year Award in Fresno County!
McKinley is continuing to build leadership skills with the “Leader in Me” process through implementing the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. McKinley teachers are empowering students to lead their learning by teaching them to solve real-world problems.
Students also learn that coming to school each day and making positive choices are important steps to achieving their dreams. During Passport Days and positive behavior rallies, students get their passports stamped as they learn about expectations all over campus. Students who are following expectations are recognized each day by receiving feathers and tickets. Kids who come to school every day each month receive a special monthly prize. To bolster literacy, Madison held its first parent literacy night of the year with a “Summer Whales” theme. More than 70 people attended! Parents learned a key literacy strategy that they were able to practice with their students during the evening. Families received resources including a hardcover book to support literacy at home. Monthly reading and math literacy nights will take place throughout the year. In the words of Walt Disney, “All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.”
Central Unified School District 16 www.centralunified.org
McKinley’s new science curriculum allows students to apply science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematical concepts to everyday, real-life problems. This approach to learning prepares students for college, career, and community involvement. Through the adoption of a new social emotional learning curriculum, students are hearing about positive behavioral expectations. Omega Man, a superhero who fights bullying, visited the school and now the students are working to apply the skills they learned from him to situations they encounter on the playground. PTA and learning partners have teamed up to bring community events to campus during the first semester. Some of the events that have been sponsored by
McKinley’s PTA and Learning Partners have included Movie Night Under the Stars, Mission to Mars from Fresno State, Trunk or Treat, 50th Day of School, a fire department presentation, student-created assemblies of the 7 Habits, and Breakfast with Santa. McKinley is moving full steam ahead to prepare students to think critically, creatively, and collaboratively.
PATHWAY COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL
Pathway’s mission is to help students learn skills that set them on the path to achievement in school, their communities, and future careers. The staff at Pathway is dedicated to student success!
PERSHING CONTINUATION HIGH SCHOOL Pershing students were thrilled to start off the school year with five students participating in dual enrollment at both Pershing and Fresno City College. Pershing also had an outstanding turnout of parents and families at Back to School night! Students attended Fresno City College’s Open House and Pershing has had multiple trips planned to tour Fresno State. They also sponsored a bus for students to attend Career Tech Night on October 16. Pershing’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) welcomed a new teacher, Ms. Monique Morgan. Ms. Morgan has deep roots in FFA. On top of earning her American Degree, her mother, Laurie Kimbler, was an agriculture teacher at Central High School-West! Ms. Morgan was busy working with her students this semester to prepare their displays for the Fresno Fair’s Landscape Competition where they placed fourth out of thirteen schools and won $165 in prize money.
POLK ELEMENTARY Polk Elementary School is taking the district theme, “Building on the Best,” and running with it. At the start of the school year, Polk was honored to be one of the first schools in Central Unified to receive the Silver Level Award from the State of California for their Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS) systems. Polk also successfully kicked off its positive attendance campaign, which includes recognizing students monthly who have zero absences or tardies. Pioneer athletics builds on previous success as their football, volleyball, and cross-country teams pursue victory with honor each Friday afternoon. Pioneer visual and performing arts are preparing for another great performance this year with Disney’s Aladdin Kids Please see POLK, next page Central Unified School District 17 www.centralunified.org
Students begin the Mt. Olympus Challenge with Pershing’s partnership with the Fresno Elks. t
As Pathway Hornets practice positive behavior and focus on social and academic success, they have taken field trips to the Chaffee Zoo, Fresno Fair, and Fresno State. Seniors began the process of registration with Fresno City College and Pathway congratulated its first graduate of the 2019-20 school year, Trent Cervantes!
Pershing went into its sixth year of partnership with the Fresno Elks, starting with the Mt. Olympus Challenge. This unique class teaches students about the value of giving back. It culminates in a competition where students convince local judges and Elks members to support a charity idea that they created to help meet a need in their community. Pershing is grateful for the ongoing support they have received from the Fresno Elks. Overall, Pershing has had a great fall semester and looks forward to finishing strong in the second half of the school year!
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Pathway Elementary and Secondary Community Day Schools had a great start to the new school year with a record-breaking Back to School night. Thank you to Bravo Bites for the delicious food!
Pershing students practice volleyball
tPolk Grandparent Celebration
CENTRAL UNIFIED School News POLK, continued and plans to expand their dinner show performance.
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Students are working hard in the classroom to continue the academic growth seen last year in their Smarter Balanced State assessments. That growth was highlighted with a 5.1% increase in math year after year. Polk works to continue strengthening their academic intervention and support through their reading lab and after school tutoring programs. Polk’s Parent Teacher Association continues to grow in providing their Pioneer community with opportunities to be involved, events to participate in, and support of their many programs. Polk Pioneers on the First Day of School
Through academics, arts, athletics, and programs that help students to develop positive behavior choices, Polk Elementary strives for excellence. They aim to build on the best by honoring their past, embracing the present, and preparing for the future.
Central Unified School District 18 www.centralunified.org
RIO VISTA MIDDLE SCHOOL
RIVER BLUFF ELEMENTARY
RV P.A.R.K. is now open and accepting visitors at Rio Vista Middle School. No, it is not an RV Park. P.A.R.K. is an acronym for Practicing Attendance, Responsibility, and Knowledge, and this is a place where students at Rio Vista can earn a VIP lunch experience for themselves and a friend.
The Dot, by Peter H. Reynolds, is the story of a caring teacher who dares a doubting student to trust in her own abilities by being brave enough to make her mark. What begins with a small dot on a piece of paper becomes a breakthrough in courage and begins the student’s journey toward self-discovery and sharing.
Academics, behavior, and attendance will continue to be areas of focus at Rio Vista Middle School. Academically, students continue to show tremendous
River Bluff students celebrated International Dot Day on September 13 by creating projects to celebrate the uniqueness and creativity of every student. Students were encouraged to embrace and share their talents, whether through writing, painting, drawing, or another creative medium. River Bluff classes read books, created affirmation bracelets, art projects, and participated in STEM projects to celebrate the differences in each person.
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Rio Vista students enjoying a VIP lunch at our RV P.A.R.K.
River Bluff staff reminds students, “We all have a creative spark that we can ignite with a little bit of bravery and encouragement. Whether big or small, how will you make your mark?” s
growth in state testing and Rio Vista wants that trend to continue. Rio Vista believes that developing positive adult-student relationships on campus will help to improve the school culture. This will also allow their school community to exhibit the Fantastic Four Expectations to address behavior goals: Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be There Be Ready, and Follow Directions.
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The final goal Rio Vista has for this school year is to improve overall school attendance by at least 1%. Positive attendance is a major factor in a student’s academic achievement, the likelihood of graduation, and college prospects. RV P.A.R.K. is an incentive for students to meet or exceed site expectations. The students who earn an invitation to the VIP lunch will have access to a special area filled with games, music, and activities that make lunchtime the best part of a school day!
Central Unified School District 19 www.centralunified.org
Dot Day Celebrations at River Bluff
CENTRAL UNIFIED School News ROOSEVELT ELEMENTARY
SAROYAN ELEMENTARY
Roosevelt Elementary started off the year with an exciting new way for students to connect and build positive relationships at school. Teachers created and implemented a “house” system with fourth through sixth grade students. The houses are Altruismo, house of givers; Amistad, house of friendship; Isibindi, house of courage; and Reveur, house of dreamers.
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Top right: Saroyan Jog-a-Thon
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Left side Roosevelt Elementary:
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Altruismo House Leaders
•Damiah Dodson
Students met weekly with their house leaders to celebrate accomplishments and good choices. Kids were excited about this new system and teachers did an amazing job celebrating their houses. Everyone enjoyed engaging in friendly competitions for the house cup! Additionally, Roosevelt has added new staff members to support students’ academic and social skills. Their intervention team is working to ensure all students continue to grow and learn at their potential. Roosevelt is excited by advances in student literacy and leadership skills this year and are looking forward to continued growth!
is the first student to spin the wheel and be sorted into her house.
Saroyan kicked off the year with a focus on staying healthy, being active, and increasing attendance as a result! Attendance is the number one predictor of a student’s academic success. Saroyan is teaching students that attendance represents responsibility, commitment, and a strong work ethic!
•Amistad House
Leaders
•Reveur House Leaders
Students participated in a fun run to encourage good health and movement while raising funds for their classrooms. Teachers and students were excited to spend a morning outside being active together! Another way they’re committed to promoting health and wellness is through a partnership with CalFresh. They teach students how to stay healthy and focused on increasing attendance at school. Saroyan students will also have opportunities to taste fresh produce throughout the year and experience a farmers market. They will get Stallion Bucks to buy their own fruit and vegetables. Saroyan Stallions will continue to pursue health in all areas, work hard, and strive to be “Better Than the Best!” Central Unified School District 20 www.centralunified.org
STEINBECK ELEMENTARY STEINBECK AIMS HIGH AND DREAMS BIG
Steinbeck Elementary students and staff were full of excitement to start the 2019-20 school year with a Back to School Rally. The message, “Aim High, Dream Big” was shared with students to encourage them to believe in themselves, set big goals, and remain positive throughout their journey. Schoolwide expectations have been taught and reinforced throughout campus. Students earn Shark
Fins for demonstrating these expectations which they can then redeem for prizes at the Shark Store every Friday. Steinbeck’s commitment to student success was reflected in their achievement of earning Bronze Level as a Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) model recognition school! Through academics, supports, and interventions, Steinbeck is committed to helping students develop positive behaviors and “Aim High, Dream Big”.
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Steinbeck Back to School Rally
Central Unified School District 21 www.centralunified.org
CENTRAL UNIFIED School News TEAGUE ELEMENTARY At the beginning of the new school year, Teague welcomed a new Principal, Dr. Brian Clark. With a doctorate in social justice and 20 years of experience in the field, Principal Clark demonstrates a passion for education that permeates his words. “I want Teague Elementary to be a place where all students, staff, and visitors feel safe. I want us to be marked by a culture of academic growth and social understanding, where students learn how to be good citizens and good neighbors,” said Clark. t
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Dr. Clark reads to students The Fresno Association of Realtors made a generous backpack donation to Teague students.
Principal Clark’s hobbies include teaching, weightlifting, reading, and watching Westerns such as Bonanza. He also enjoys playing outdoor games with his competitive family and especially loves encouraging the success of young people. Clark believes that coaches, parents, and teachers play the most important
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He felt incredibly supported by the Central Unified community during his first few months in the district. Through challenges, he witnessed staff, teachers, and parents rally together. Clark says that Teague is a place where people possess an urgency for the well-being of students. This year, Clark plans to “work collaboratively with staff and stakeholders to offer as many opportunities for students to flourish, grow, and feel as though they’re the most important focus on campus.”
Central Unified School District 22 www.centralunified.org
TILLEY ELEMENTARY In addition to unveiling their beautiful new campus this year, Tilley Elementary School witnessed Guidance Instructional Advisor, Kristen Ginger, become the new principal in August. Born in Fresno, Ginger spent most of her life in the Central Valley. She has worked in Central Unified School District for thirteen years and served as the GIA of Tilley Elementary for the 2018-2019 school year under the leadership of the late Karen Davis. She loves spending time with her 22-year-old son and 9-year-old daughter and enjoys an active lifestyle. Her ideal afternoon would include a barbeque at home followed by a game of cornhole with her large blended family! Ginger is motivated to lead well and create a positive environment at Tilley Elementary. This year, Tilley absorbed 200 overflow students and seven staff members from Madison
Elementary. Through various events and intentional interactions, Ginger is committed to making Tilley a place where all students, staff, and parents feel heard and known. Parent involvement is vital in Ginger’s eyes. She’s encouraged to see that ParentSquare is already helping many parents feel more connected to the school. Ginger is also excited about Tilley’s Parent Workshops organized by Valley PBS. These workshops took place every Tuesday in October and included dinner for families, parent training on relevant topics, and interactive activities for kids. Principal Ginger is personable and makes herself accessible to her staff, students, families and community members. She stands in front of the school with students almost every morning and afternoon, so be sure to introduce yourself the next time you’re at Tilley!
From top: s A Tilley panther shows his moves during the 80’s dance Tilley opens its new facility on the first day of school t
Tilley staff wear patriotic colors on 9/11 t Principal Ginger and Seth Jaroch on 80’s day (credit: Shannon Jaroch)
Central Unified School District 23 www.centralunified.org
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Central Unified School District 24 www.centralunified.org