JAN 2021
COVER STORY
BAY ECO TOURS Save the Monarchs
In-Person LEARNING
GUIDE
Visit us at GrowingUpSC.com
Spring Hill School Now Enrolling
K-6th Grade Fall 2021 & Transfers (Campus or Distance)
Open House
Jan. 23rd, 2021 10am & 1pm Virtual Open House
Email: admissions@springhillschool.org www.springhillschool.org 831.427.2641 250 California St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Big learning.
Small classes...
50 YEARS of
COLLABORATION
Tours by Appointment January 19 & 20, 9:30am-3:00pm
GATEWAY SCHOOL W H E R E E X P E R I E N C E A N D I N N O VAT I O N M E E T
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JANUARY 2021 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz
Visit www.gatewaysc.org to schedule a tour.
Features
EDITOR/PUBLISHER
Brad Kava, Jennifer Ford, Steve Dinnen ART DIRECTOR
Zelzi Belle | Christy Shults DISTRIBUTION & SUBSCRIPTIONS
Susan Bernstein CONTRIBUTORS
Dana Abbott, Ashley Carone, Lisa Catterall, Mimi Chappelear, Seb Frey, Zach Friend, Laura Maxson, Gretchen McNelis, Kevin Painchaud, Samantha Petovello, Jeanette Prather, Logan Ryan, Sandi Schwartz, Kim Young, Nicole M. Young PHOTOGRAPHER
Kevin Painchaud AD REPRESENTATIVES
Ann Fitts ann@ growingupsc.com Linda Kay linda@ growingupsc.com Sophie Veniel sophie@ growingupsc.com CONTACT US
831.239.3444 editor@growingupsc.com
P.O. Box 3505, Santa Cruz, CA 95063
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Jim Booth Swim School
Evenings • Saturday Classes • Birthday Parties
The BEST in Baby Swimming! Start at 4 months in our 94 ° indoor pool!
Teacher of the Month:
Krista Holt
16 Monarch Butterflies
JAN 2021 | VOL. 26 NO. 1 Printed lovingly by Fricke-Parks Press.
Growing Up in Santa Cruz copyright 2019. Printed in the U.S.A. All views expressed represent those of the individual authors. The contents of this publication are meant as information only and should not take the place of a medical doctor’s recommendations. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part, in any form, electronic or otherwise is prohibited without permission by the publisher. This publication does not knowingly accept deceptive or misleading advertising. Growing Up is printed on recycled paper with soy-based inks.
19 LovingKindness
Continuity of education is a top priority for Kirby. Ask us about our
Now at Harvey West in Santa Cruz and Watsonville indoor and outdoor pools.
722-3500
JimBoothSwimSchool.com • Like us on Facebook
Empowering Students to Shape Their Futures with Confidence.
increased commitment to Tuition Assistance. Contact our Ask Nicole........................................................................ 5 Admissions Office to help you through the application process. 7 Teacher of the Month....................................................... (831) 423-0658 x 202 or email admissions@kirby.org. Birth Matters.................................................................... 8 County Scoop................................................................... 9 Education......................................................................... 10 January Celebrations........................................................ 12 Teacher's Desk.................................................................. 14 Healthy Eating.................................................................. 15 Monarch Butterflies......................................................... 16 Your Health...................................................................... 18 Parenting......................................................................... 19 Local News....................................................................... 20 Cover Story...................................................................... 21 Your Home....................................................................... 22 Local Artist...................................................................... 23 Independent Schools Guide............................................. 24 Kirby School is an independent college prep school in Santa Cruz for grades 6-12.
We’re asking for help from our readers to keep us printing. VISIT OUR GoFundMe at gofundme.com/f/keep-growing-up-publishing
Learn more about our Tuition Assistance program, challenging academic curriculum, and high-quality distance learning opportunities. Register for an upcoming virtual admissions event at kirby.org. GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2021
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Editors’ Note
11 Years
in Santa Cruz County!
January is Positive Parenting Awareness Month! Start the new year with tips and tools to renew, refresh, and recharge your relationship with your child or teen. Triple P – a scientifically proven, world-renowned positive parenting program – is celebrating 10+ years in Santa Cruz County and is available to all families. Find a Triple P class or practitioner:
triplep.first5scc.org
Made possible through a partnership between First 5 Santa Cruz County, Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency (MHSA Prop 63 funds) and Santa Cruz County Human Services Department
INFORMATION: First 5 Santa Cruz County 831.465.2217 triplep@first5scc.org • triplep.first5scc.org
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JANUARY 2021 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz
Can we make the new normal better? That’s our goal for 2021, to take what we’ve learned during the long shelter-inplace directive and save some of the best things for the new year. Those include more board games and less video games; more walks and fewer drives; more socializing with neighbors; more time spent looking over homework and school work; more time to slow down and quit running around like an Uber service. One thing we’ve learned is that the county’s bike lanes aren’t safe. We’ve spent more time cruising on two wheels than ever and now we are really worried about what happens when kids go back to school and smash their bikes into ubiquitous potholes and road crack. An article in the current issue by Supervisor Zach Friend notes that our county is fifth worst in the state for bike collisions. No wonder, when the bike lanes look like obstacle course and bikes have to pull out into the roadway. Once upon a couple of decades ago, Santa Cruz looked like it was in the cutting edge of bike safety with marked lanes for bikes, something that few other states had. Now, through neglect and lack of financing, those lanes are like a minefield. In his County Scoop column, Friend notes there is funding for two new bike and pedestrian bridges and five miles of buffered lanes along Soquel Drive. Yay. That’s great news. But it’s just a start. There’s no reason with tens of thousands of students in town, we can’t do more to protect them. Sometimes it just takes riding the roadways on two wheels to realize what a crisis we have here and how much better we can be doing. Have you traveled in the Netherlands? Bikes there are treated like the top mode of transit. You will even see students riding on two wheels to their prom in tuxedos and evening dresses. There are so many reasons to get out and bike, not the least of which is that it helps save the environment. And now, even older people or those who can’t negotiate an unpowered bike, can buy E-bikes and make them serious commuting vehicles most of the year. Some bikers reported that Department of Public Works head Matt Machado has
responded to urgent problems, such as a big crack on the hill at Rio del Mar, near the area where one rider recently died when he lost control of his bike. You can file a report with Machado by searching for the Public Works page or linking to it via the My Santa Cruz County App, available at all your app stores. You can also use your camera or GoPro and send them here (editor@ growingupsc.com), where GUISC is compiling a list of the most dangerous streets to see if we can spur some action. The videos really paint a picture of how bad and dangerous our roads are. If we show them the problem, we hope officials will find more money to help fix it. Other issues in this new year’s GUISC include an article showing what local schools are doing to keep students safe for in-class lessons during the pandemic. On the positive side, we have a great feature on a new Eco-teaching boat tour through Elkhorn Slough. What a great thing to do as a family. We have good reason to worry about one of the most beautiful local pieces of nature, our orange and black Monarch butterflies. Their numbers have been dismal this year and they are on the verge of being an endangered species. What can you do? Our experts will tell you. Can a pandemic be the right time to have a baby? Writer and mother Ashley Carone says, yes. Read her article to see why. Let’s hope our vision for 2021 isn’t just better than the misnamed and muckladen 2020, but that we figure ways to come back from a tragedy with brilliant and inspiring new ideas. Thanks for reading. Brad Kava, Jennifer Ford and Steve Dinnen
About the Cover Captain Wendy had a vision to take people on environmentally friendly and educational tours of the Monterey Bay’s animal-filled Elkhorn Slough. With a specially designed boat, she’s pulled it off in one of the most exciting new ventures in the area. Writer and photographer Kevin Painchaud documented it and had a great time with his daughter, Tess. These days we are hunting for great educational things to do with the kids
during lockdown and this is at the top of our list. Read the full story on page 21. About the Photographer Kevin Painchaud is a professional photographer located in Aptos for over 30 years. If you wish to contact Kevin, please email him directly at kpainchaudphotography@gmail.com. You can view his work on Instagram at @painchaudkevin
ASK NICOLE Positive Parenting is Vital to Well-being BY NICOLE M. YOUNG, MSW
YOU
Dear parents, foster parents, grandparents, relative caregivers, and other adults raising children and teens: We’re celebrating you in January 2021! The County Board of Supervisors has partnered with First 5 Santa Cruz County to declare January as Positive Parenting Awareness Month for the ninth year in a row. Other California counties are doing the same, and the California Assembly will pass a resolution any day now, declaring January 2021 as Positive Parenting Awareness Month across the state. What does this mean? It means that local and state elected officials recognize that positive parenting is vital to the current and future well-being of children, families, and the entire community. It means that across the state, we’re calling attention to the fact that raising children and youth to be confident, capable, caring, and independent is the most demanding, exhausting, important, rewarding (and underpaid) job many of us will ever have. It means that as a community, we recognize that being a parent or caregiver can be difficult, confusing, stressful, and isolating during “normal” times, and this past year has been nowhere near normal. The multiple health, financial, and social-emotional crises created by the global pandemic, wildfires that ravaged communities, and continued racial injustices have led some people to wonder whether this is the right time to emphasize the joyful, rewarding aspects of positive parenting when so many people are sick, grieving, or struggling to make ends meet. At the same time, others have pointed out that the crises and chaos of this past year make positive parenting more vital than ever. Decades of research show that a child’s relationships and experiences shape the developing brain throughout childhood and adolescence, laying the foundation for future social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development. Children and youth who experience responsive, nurturing caregiving in safe and engaging environments are better able to learn, grow, and thrive. Positive parenting acts as a protective “buffer” that supports children’s emotional well-being, even when families are experiencing hunger, unemployment, unstable housing or homelessness, social isolation, or discrimination and racism. Positive parenting alone won’t solve these enormous challenges, but we also can’t afford to wait to promote positive parenting until there’s are “better days” with fewer problems or challenges. So, dedicating the first month of the year to parents and caregivers is an opportunity to renew our commitment to the five principles of positive parenting: 1. Create a safe, interesting environment for children and youth of all ages;
Create a positive learning environment that promotes growth and development; 3. Use assertive discipline that teaches (instead of punishes) and helps children and youth develop skills for communication, cooperation, problem-solving, and managing emotions; 4. Have realistic expectations of yourself and your children (because there’s no such thing as a perfect parent or child); and 5. Take care of yourself so you have the emotional, physical, and mental energy it takes to be a positive parent/caregiver. Positive Parenting Awareness Month is a reminder that community members, businesses, early care and education providers, schools, and faith-based, nonprofit, and government organizations all play a crucial role in supporting parents and caregivers to apply these positive parenting principles – even (or especially) during challenging times. Thankfully, many organizations in Santa Cruz County offer support and concrete resources such as food, housing, health care, financial assistance, childcare, and other essential services for families (Dial or text 2-1-1 or visit 211santacruzcounty. org/ to get help with accessing resources). Another resource for families is the Triple P - Positive Parenting Program, an evidence-based program that offers a “tool kit” of strategies to strengthen relationships, promote children’s development, and handle common parenting challenges. Triple P providers have helped thousands of Santa Cruz County families in English and Spanish since 2010, and they quickly shifted to providing virtual services during the pandemic to maintain continuity of support. Check First 5’s calendar (first5scc.org/calendar/parent-trainings) and follow Triple P on Facebook (facebook.com/triplepscc) to find Triple P classes, fun family activities, and a chance to win prizes throughout January! 2.
Nicole Young is the mother of two children, ages 17 and 20, who also manages Santa Cruz County’s Triple P - Positive Parenting Program, the world’s leading positive parenting program. Scientifically proven, Triple P is made available locally by First 5 Santa Cruz County, the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency (Mental
Health Services Act) and the Santa Cruz County Human Services Department. To find a Triple P parenting class or practitioner, visit http://triplep. first5scc.org, http://www.facebook. com/triplepscc or contact First 5 Santa Cruz County at 465-2217 or triplep@ first5scc.org.
Final Thoughts
During January – and every day throughout the year – let’s recognize positive parenting as vital to the wellbeing of children and families and essential to the community’s health, economic, and environmental recovery and revitalization. Although life will not magically return to “normal” on January 1, Positive Parenting Awareness Month sets a hopeful tone for the year by elevating the importance of positive parenting and everyone who’s doing their best to raise healthy, happy, resilient children. Parents and caregivers: we see you, we celebrate you, and we’re here for you!
GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2021
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JANUARY 2021 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz
“ Teacher of the Month WESTLAKE ELEMENTARY
Teacher of the Month is a monthly feature in Growing Up in Santa Cruz. We honor local teachers based on your nominations. Send your nominations to editor@growingupsc.com and please stop in and thank Kianti’s for their uplifting community spirit!
BY SAMANTHA PETOVELLO
Kindergarten Teacher
Krista Holtz I wanted to nominate Krista Holt, who teaches my daughter kindergarten at Westlake. In addition to having great communication and organization, she manages to create empathy and community with the students. She has connected with my daughter in a way I didn’t think possible over a virtual schooling platform. She goes above and beyond by being available for her students. When my daughter couldn’t find her dice for a math game, after class, Ms. Krista rode her bike to our house and dropped one off in our mailbox. When my daughter’s whiteboard marker ran out, another one was hand delivered to our door after class. It would have been easy for her to ask us to get these materials ourselves or wait for the next materials pick up day (which we would have done either), but she didn’t. But the day that confirmed that Ms. Krista is just a special human is the day that we unexpectedly had to take
my daughter for some lab work. My daughter is terrified of needles, and even though we discussed and prepared as a family, she was still uncertain and asked to talk to Ms. Krista. I emailed Ms. Krista that day and she set up a zoom with my daughter right away that afternoon before her test. She related to her, talked about calming breathing techniques and ways to handle her fears. While Ms. Krista is an amazing teacher (my daughter is reading her sight words!), she was there emotionally for my daughter which is paramount during these crazy times. Some words from Krista: I started teaching in 1991 in Los Gatos at Lexington School where I taught for 13 years. Kindergarten was the best fit for me and it more or less chose me-- it was the job I was offered and I fell in love with it. I love kindergarten for so many reasons -- the magic of the young learner and their belief in themselves before life
Krista Holt is pictured below with her puppets, Puppy and Snail, who are important “friends” in our class and help us with our Social Emotional & Growth Mindset lessons each week. “We end every class meeting with the class poem, ‘Let love shine through in all you do,’ says Holt.
starts giving mixed messages about our worthiness or abilities. I love singing with and to the students--it always calms them right down. I love their joy of learning and their genuine emotions, quick to feel big feelings and just as quick to say “let’s be friends again!” I adore the 5-6 year old openness to the world and their willingness to try new things. Distance learning has been a wild ride but each day I just show up with a caring heart, ready to make everyone feel special and loved and safe. We have talked a lot in our class meetings about managing our feelings and how to get centered and calm with breathing practices. I am in awe of how well it has gone and for our class. The parents have been incredible with their support, patience, and resilience. Distance learning for our youngest students relies so heavily on the parents and adults at home. One of my favorite practices has been riding my bike to my
students’ homes in the Spring and this Fall to do read alouds in the driveway. These face-to-face connections have made our time on Zoom even stronger. I also ride my bike to homes when they need a new white board marker or dice or extra paper. I grew up in Mill Valley, California and moved to Santa Cruz in 1986 to attend UCSC. I decided to be a teacher when I was a young girl. I loved “teaching” my fellow classmates how to make cookies or do a favorite art activity. My teachers were great about inviting me to contribute what I was interested in sharing. I also come from a long line of teachers--my mother, my aunt, my sister, as well as my maternal and paternal grandparents were all teachers. Perhaps it is in my DNA. (I took a number of years off from teaching when my children were little so overall I have been teaching 19 years now.)
hank TYou This month Kianti’s Pizza & Pasta Bar at 1100 Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz donated gift cards, wine and keepsakes.
GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2021
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BIRTH MATTERS Make time to Focus on Childbirth Classes BY LAURA MAXSON, LM Families have let go of many activities as they shelter together in the safety of their homes during the COVID-19 outbreak. But one activity expectant parents - especially first-time parents should not give up is attending a good childbirth class. Expectant parents should plan on becoming well educated and prepared for labor. At this point in the pandemic, birth doulas--as well as grandparents, friends, and relatives-are not allowed in the hospital at all, unless replacing the one allowed visitor, which is usually the co-parent. Pregnant people are already experiencing fewer in-person prenatal visits and these usually exclude partners or support people. Having another person along to help remember instructions and information is so beneficial and parents are missing out on that option right now. Many are also missing the connection that comes with sharing prenatal visits together. With the background stress of COVID-19, normal questions about pregnancy and birth can feel a bit frivolous and it is easy to forget to ask all the questions on this week’s list when talking with a care provider.
Happy New Year!
However, questions are not frivolous. In fact, it’s how people learn, and questions are vital to preparing for the upcoming experience of childbirth and parenting. The authors of A Good Birth, A Safe Birth, Diana Korte and Roberta Scaer, said, “If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any.” Truer words were never spoken. Knowing the rhythm of labor and possible scenarios in advance can help parents understand options and make informed choices. With labor support options at a minimum, parents will need to step up to be there for each other. Childbirth is still childbirth, pandemic or not, and childbirth education is one of the best ways to learn about relaxation and labor coping techniques that allow the laboring body to get to work. These techniques can include protecting privacy, learning a variety of laboring positions, anticipating the flow of labor, avoiding interventions and much more. There are fewer options for childbirth classes right now with some instructors choosing to wait until in-person classes can resume. Luckily, live online classes are available for group classes and for individuals. Instructors who have
Virtual Meet the Doulas Saturday, January 23, 4pm
Learn about how doulas support families though the birth and postpartum experience during our current COVID19 situation. Preregister to join our FREE LIVE ZOOM EVENT: BirthNetSantaCruz.EventBrite.com
One-stop-shopping for pregnancy, birth & parenting services
www.BirthNet.org 8
JANUARY 2021 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz
embraced distance education are getting more comfortable with the technology that allows parents to get together in their own homes to learn about birth while getting to know other families. Hospital-based classes. During the pandemic, many hospital and clinic classes that weren’t cancelled have become video-based, with fewer and fewer opportunities to interact with a live instructor to ask questions. Empowering parents to make independent decisions can sometimes lead to problems for hospital-based instructors. It can be difficult to present evidence-based information that is not necessarily in line with their hospital’s current practices. A plus is that hospital-based classes are more likely to be covered by insurance. Independent classes. There are many varieties of independent classes. Some teach a specific technique, such as Birthing From Within or Hypnobirthing, but more often than not independent classes contain a mix of techniques that cover more wide-ranging topics than hospital-based classes. Many birth doulas are offering pre-birth consultations/education packages on an individual basis. Make time to be together to focus on
birth. Life is busy and everyone is getting Zoomed out, but make an effort to get to a full series of classes. Will several two-hour classes be more doable than a couple of 4 or 6 hour classes? See what works and make the time for it. When labor gets challenging, couples will want to be able to lean on each other for support. The book The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin is a great resource for the person providing labor support. It has a great index for looking up ways to help for specific complaints or situations.Reach out. Many birth doulas have updated their support package in response to the pandemic to include virtual help and/or on-call advice if needed during labor. Make a plan to reach out virtually (even at 2 am) to a doula or an experienced family member or friend. The one expertise most partners already have is intimacy and love that can provide a baseline of support that is invaluable. Build on that with knowledge from a childbirth class - something as simple as suggesting a shower or tub, turning the lights down and the music up for some slow dance swaying, or adjusting the bed to try a new position can make all the difference.
COUNTY SCOOP Local Transportation Project Funding Approved BY ZACH FRIEND, COUNTY SUPERVISOR
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In early December the California Transportation Commission (CTC) approved over $107 million in grant funding for multi-modal improvements to our local transportation network. The funding was due to a grant application from the local Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) and is a result of funding from Senate Bill 1: the Solutions for Congested Corridors Program and Local Partnership Competitive Program. Our competitiveness for these programs was due in large part to our passage of Measure D, which provides a local match for these major transportation projects.
What challenges will the funding address?
The funding works to address a number of issues that are particularly acute in the mid and south county areas. First, Highway 1 congestion. As many of you know, congestion on the highway impacts everyone including those simply trying to get to work or back home, emergency vehicles, buses and delivery vehicles. The second issue is cut-through traffic. As a result of the highway congestion, many vehicles exit the highway and create safety issues (including for bike and pedestrians) on Soquel and other side streets. The third issue is bike and pedestrian safety. Our area is the fifth worst in the state for bike collisions -- there is a need for improve bike and pedestrian safety facilities and the increased vehicle usage of Soquel and other side streets is a contributing factor to these increased collisions.
What will be funded?
Three new sets of auxiliary lanes on Highway 1 between Soquel Drive and State Park Drive - in one of the most congested corridors in the County. Additionally, it will allow for the first 5.75-miles of a 7.5-mile hybrid bus-onshoulder/auxiliary lane facility, where transit buses can travel in the auxiliary lane between intersections and on the shoulders at intersections to bypass traffic. Two new Highway 1 bicycle/pedestrian
overcrossings (Chanticleer Avenue and the long-awaited Mar Vista Drive project). A bridge replacement at Capitola Avenue, with new pedestrian and bike facilities is also part of the funding. Lastly, a significant improvement on Soquel including 5 miles of buffered/ protected bicycle lanes, 46 green bike boxes for left turn movements, new sidewalks (to connect to existing sidewalk facilities) ADA improvements, 96 crosswalk upgrades, crosswalk warning devices at 10-mid block locations, and adaptive traffic signal control with transit prioritization at 23 intersections (to improve bus transit time).What are the benefits of these projects?As the CTC noted in their staff report, “the project will increase multimodal options, reduce vehicle miles traveled, reduce congestion, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.” It will increase safety and reduce transportation times on this congested corridor with an innovative package of projects to improve and integrate transit, active transportation, and highway/local roadway modes of travel. Transit buses can bypass traffic at intersections by traveling on the new Highway 1 shoulder and can also travel more efficiently on Soquel with signal prioritization. Safe routes to school will increase with new buffered bike lanes and new sidewalks and crosswalk improvements on Soquel as well as two new bike and pedestrian overcrossings to ensure connection between neighborhoods and new safer bike and pedestrian routes. The highway improvements will mean less cut through traffic on side streets and Soquel improving neighborhood safety and congestion. Overall, the projects will have equity and environmental benefits with a level of investment that hasn’t been seen in our county. Lower-income residents often are impacted the most by longer commutes and unreliable transit times and in many communities have higher rates of bike and pedestrian incidents. These improvements will improve bike and pedestrian safety, reduce commute times and improve bus service - which,
The funding works to address a number of issues that are particularly acute in the mid and south county areas.
while this benefits the entire community - it has the greatest impact on those that often live the furthest from employment options due to affordable housing challenges and rely on major transit. The grant funding was supported by Caltrans, the California Highway Patrol, METRO, and the RTC. Supervisor Bruce McPherson (the current Chair of the RTC), joined Guy Preston (the Executive Director of the RTC) and me to speak in support at the virtual meeting of the California Transportation Commission. Assemblymember Mark Stone also sent in a letter of support to the Commission. The Commission voted unanimously to support the funding.
What are the next steps?
The RTC is partnering with Caltrans, METRO, and the County for project delivery. The County will be the lead agency in implementation of the multimodal improvements on Soquel.
The Highway 1 improvements will be constructed by Caltrans with the RTC implementing environmental clearance and final design. The RTC anticipates that all components of this extensive project will be under construction by 2023 with some sooner. For more information on the Watsonville-Santa Cruz Multimodal Corridor Program visit sccrtc.org/ projects/multi-modal/wsc-mc/ As always, I appreciate any feedback you may have on this (or any other County issue). I’m maintaining regular updates on social media at www.facebook.com/ supervisorfriend and I’ve been hosting regular tele-townhalls with County and community leaders on most Tuesday nights from 6-7 pm. The call in information for the town halls is 454-2222 with the Meeting ID: 145384# - you are welcome to speak about any issue during the town halls or you can always call me at 454-2200.
GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2021
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Face
Face
to
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Demonstrating an admirable resilience in the face of a pandemic, students have adapted and adjusted to the times, and teachers have shown that their valiant efforts and unwavering passion can and will educate children across many platforms and over a variety of wavelengths.
BY JEANETTE PRATHER
Jeanette got her BA in journalism, French, international studies, and dance at Cal State, Long Beach circa 2007. Since then, she has published thousands of articles and blogs from zines to dailies to traditional glossies, as well as four books, and six musicals. She runs a local business, Stellaria Creative Company, and resides in Santa Cruz with her husband and two children.
How our Local Schools are Teaching In Person BY JEANETTE PRATHER
It is safe to say that the domino effect of having schools halt in-person education for the majority of 2020 has been … disruptive. Parents, students, school faculty and anyone who has a concept of what it takes to educate youth understands the complexity of “the system.” Demonstrating an admirable resilience in the face of a pandemic, students have adapted and adjusted to the times, and teachers have shown that their valiant efforts and unwavering passion can and will educate children across many platforms and over a variety of wavelengths. So, when it was announced that schools and small cohorts were allowing in-person education, following specific and rigid guidelines, it’s not surprising that most private and public schools jumped at the opportunity. “We are carefully following all of the protocols and guidelines laid out by the County Health Department and the County Office of Education,” said Jennifer Graham, Gateway School’s Director of Advancement. “We created a very detailed guide that documents all of our procedures to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff. Examples of things we are doing include: Staggering arrival and dismissal times; conducting daily temperature checks upon arrival; building a dozen outdoor classroom structures; creating cohorts of students that don’t mix; allowing only pre-packaged food for birthday and other classroom celebrations; assigning bathrooms, playground materials, and classroom supplies to specific cohorts; replacing water fountains with touchless sinks for washing hands and filling water bottles; suspending our optional catered lunch program; requiring all students to use water bottles; creating one-direction paths of travel; and installing touchless hand sanitizer stations throughout the campus.” This seems to be a common thread woven between private, public, and even local pre-schools. Spring Hill Elementary, for example, followed closely multiple reputable online resources and
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databases that garnered more detailed information on in-person, children education. They consulted the Santa Cruz County Public Health Information and Guidance, Santa Cruz Public Health Press Releases, California Department of Public Health Travel Advisory, California Department of Public Health Gatherings Order, Guidance on Cohorts (California Department of Public Health - CDPH)), Guidance for Schools (State of California, CDPH, Cal/OSHA), Guidance for Employers (State of California, CDPH), Campus Checklist (State of California, CDPH, Cal/OSHA), Guidance for Use of Face Coverings (CDPH), Handwashing: How to, why, the science (CDC), and What if someone is sick and/or suspected of having COVID-19 (Santa Cruz County Health Services), to name just a few on the extensive list. “It is working!” Said Marielle Warren, Head of School at Spring Hill School. “We have had students on campus since late September, and we are still going strong. We have an extensive COVID-19 Prevention Plan in place, have been following it and letting it do its job.” Some of the precautions that Spring Hill have taken, involve cohorts not utilizing the same bathroom, eating outside, not sharing the same eating area, and weekly rotations for using outdoor space. Spring Hill and Gateway Schools are not the only facilities to have taken up extensive precautions with opening small cohorts of children. “To educate and protect the health and well-being of our community, signs, such as symptoms and signs of COVID-19, how to properly wear and use cloth face covering, healthy hygiene habits, are posted at each entrance of the school,” said Leigh Ann Clifton, the Director of Marketing & Communications at Mount Madonna School. “Students, faculty and staff undergo pre-screening using the Imhealthytoday (IHT) screening app and on-site temperature screening for COVID-19 at designated screening
JANUARY 2021 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz
points. We have partnered with IHT, a ‘data-driven, data-Managed’ program to assist in maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our community.” While in school at Mount Madonna, students, faculty, and staff are required to wear face coverings, maintain at least six feet of distance, and reinforce proper handwashing techniques following CDC guidance. “Mount Madonna School (MMS) prioritizes the safety of our school and extended community. We have built-in layers of strategies to mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” said Clifton. Kirby School was also among those taking major precautions while they were serving student in-person education during October. According to their website, the school has adopted intensive cleaning and disinfecting procedures, limiting visitors, facilities modifications (like installing Plexiglas barriers in the lobby and dual sink hand washing stations for crowding prevention, for example), and maintaining constant physical distancing. “In October, we opened for in-person classes for 6th and 7th grade stable cohorts (groups completely independent of one another),” said Paige Berardo, Communications Director at Kirby School. “We were at the threshold of expanding in-person classes to all grades when Santa Cruz reverted to the purple tier under the considerable weight of the third wave of COVID, at which point we decided, given the success of our online program, to return to distance learning.” Something that all schools agree upon is overall safety for students, teachers, and other school faculty. “Everyone has some level of anxiety about the current situation of the pandemic – it would be strange not to, wouldn’t it?” Asked Graham. “[Gateway School’s] invested a lot in improving our site and developing protocols to keep everyone safe, and we’re focused on the four major factors that contribute to transmission: duration, distance, directness, and ventilation.” Prior to allowing students to attend a small cohort on campus, DeLaveaga
Montessori has been open for in school instruction since Elementary sent out a 14-page document outlining what is expected of parents and students, as well as a three-page contract for families to sign. Much of the document specifies what the other cohorts contain, with a strong emphasis on consistent attendance. “If your child has three unexcused absences or tardies, we will need to discontinue your child’s participation in the cohort program and select another student to take their place,” wrote the document. “Students will enter campus at the gate on Prospect Heights at 8:15 am. The gate will be locked at 8:30 am.” For public schools, priority for inperson education seemed to be given to those students with Individual Education Plans or needing other special resources. For the private school sector, it seemed a
Gateway School
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Mount Madonna School
e late September but have been following strict Covid protocols for all students, parents and teachers. bit easier to accommodate small cohorts of students. “[In-person learning] is not a one-size fits all situation,” said Warren. “[Spring Hill] works because we are small. Large schools have many more hurdles to clear in order to bring children on campus while also following all of the guidelines. In addition, some students do quite well online. It also varies quite a bit depending upon the age of the student. The education community has learned a lot this year about how students thrive.” Younger children, those preschoolers and earlier, have been able to return to their facilities since July. “Santa Cruz County gave the ok to open at the end of June, so we decided to open on July 1 to our families,” said Krishanie Weera, Head of School at Children’s Preschool Santa Cruz. “The virus numbers at
that point seemed to remain steady and weren’t really going up. We had to open in order to survive.” Deemed essential businesses over the summer, daycare and preschool facilities have already explored the in-person education obstacles that many other schools are now going through. “It’s been wonderful to have Gateway students on campus,” said Graham. “They are so excited to be together again. It’s exciting to see how our teachers help students learning at home connect and participate with those learning on campus.” “While the ‘how’ in the classroom might appear different this year, the ‘why’ and the intention are still present,” said Clifton. “Although the cohorts are designed to limit the interaction
Younger children, those preschoolers and earlier, have been able to return to their facilities since July.
of students with other grade-levels, we employed technology in the classroom to continue building community. Mount Madonna has a rich history of supporting the social and emotional health of our students. As we know, this is now more important than ever.” When asked if each school thought the students participating in the small cohorts were benefiting from that type of learning experience, they all unanimously agreed that it was. “Definitely,” said Berardo. “I also believe that the online learning experience was improved by students getting to be together [at Kirby], even if only two days per week.” “Humans have a need for connection,” said Mount Madonna’s Upper School Director, Shannon Kelly. “The pandemic has disrupted our lives and prevented us from connecting in most of the ways we are used to. I am grateful that we are able to provide a safe space for our students, faculty, and staff to come together to learn, bond, and care for one another.” “One of our guiding values [at Spring Hill] is to be a supportive school community,” said Warren. “In these challenging times, that value has shone through with everyone’s cooperation and commitment to maintaining the health and safety of our students, families, faculty and staff. We could not be doing this without them.” “For the month they were in-person, the small cohorts of 6th and 7th graders [at Kirby] went brilliantly,” said Berardo. “It was a positive experience for everyone including our teachers. Our desire to create a sense of class unity was achieved. Safety protocols were followed well, and we were able to remain flexible to adapt to changing health guidance as it came.” Santa Cruz Montessori school has also managed in person learning by cutting back students and upping safety protocols. “Santa Cruz Montessori reopened in person with small summer programs in June of 2020,” said Head of School Kim Saxton. “Throughout the summer, a thorough operating plan was created
to ensure the safety and well being of students and staff as we worked to reopen the whole school for in person learning in September. “Our primary and toddler programs were able to open with modifications in person at the beginning of the school year. Staff follow all safety measures required by child care licensing and the health department, groups are limited to half the usual size, and children have learned to wear masks and adapt to small changes in their day that ensure their safety. They are thrilled to be back to school in person and are thriving. “Our elementary and junior high programs started the school year in distance learning and some students have continued with distance learning, while many returned in person when these programs reopened later in September. Elementary and junior high teachers are teaching both in person and distance learners throughout the day. The flexibility of Montessori allows for this and the dedication of the teachers has continued to connect our at home students with their in-person classmates. Students may work together via Zoom to attend lessons and work together. “We were able to purchase electrostatic misters in the summer and use them each day when the children are gone for cleaning. “I also believe that our high quality air filters in each classroom is helping. Children can work outside as well. “Temperature checks and a list of health questions are asked daily of all students and staff. No one can enter the community unless they are 100 percent symptom free. All of these things are mentioned in our Operation Plan. I also want to note that I am extremely grateful for the support of Faris Sabbah, County Superintendent of Schools, for his ongoing support of the Independent Schools. Without his thoughtful guidance the task of opening our school would have been much more challenging, if not impossible. His care and guidance along the way has been instrumental in the success of our opening.” GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2021
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FRIDAY 1
WEDNESDAY 6
New Year’s Day
Happy Mew Year for Cats Day National Science Fiction Day
National Bean Day National Cuddle Up Day Since January has some of the coldest temperatures of the year, it’s a great excuse to warm up by cuddling with those closest to you! Plus, if you’ve got a fireplace and cozy blankets, it’s even better. National Technology Day
SUNDAY 3
THURSDAY 7
SATURDAY 2
National Bobblehead Day
FRIDAY 8
Mt Madonna School Conversations of Meaning, 7pm-8:30pm. Join us via Zoom for a glimpse into the Values program. Values in World Thought spans 11th and 12th grades and engages students in meaningful conversations. True dialogue is a collaborative process of active listening and discussion that helps the students develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter, and respect and curiosity about the ideas of others. RSVP to school@ mountmadonnaschool.org for the Zoom link.
WEDNESDAY 13 National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day (Above Image: Sergeant Pascale Wowak with Scotts Valley PD)if you have a police officer as a friend or family member, National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day on January 9 is the perfect time to show officers we understand how difficult their job is. So it’s important to show officers how much we understand their difficult work and appreciate their sacrifice and risk.
SUNDAY 10
International Mind-Body Wellness Day an opportunity to celebrate how a healthy mind and healthy emotions means a healthy body! The mind, body and soul connection plays an integral role in our overall health and well-being. Our emotions, purpose, spirituality, experiences, goals, beliefs, habits and actions all have an important impact on mind-body harmony and overall health. That is why we celebrate International Mind-Body Wellness Day at the start of each year, because nothing is more important than creating the best you possible, and what better time than the new year for a new you? JRR Tolkien Day National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day
MONDAY 4 National Spaghetti Day National Trivia Day
TUESDAY 5 National Bird Day National Whipped Cream Day National Screenwriters Day National Keto Day
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National Houseplant Appreciation Day Houseplants convert carbon dioxide into oxygen for us to breathe, improving the air quality in your home. Plants also release moisture into the air, conditioning it with refreshing humidity that can actually make your house feel cooler! Whether your green thumb has driven you to amass an impressive indoor garden or you’re just kicking around the idea of a low-maintenance cactus for your desk, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and join us in bringing the outdoors inside on National Houseplant Appreciation Day.
Earth’s Rotation Day Most of us probably know the Earth rotates on an almost-vertical axis every 24 hours, which gives us one Earth day. But this basic knowledge wasn’t always so undisputable. In 1851, French physicist Leon Foucault demonstrated how our planet rotates using his now-famous pendulum. Today, Foucault’s Pendulums are a fixture in science museums around the world. The simple but brilliant contraption uses a suspended lead ball to indicate the rotation of the Earth over the course of a day. The pendulum is surrounded by small pins arranged in a circle, which the pendulum knocks down one by one, eventually completing a full rotation. National Bubble Bath Day National Winter Skin Relief Day
SATURDAY 9 Virtual Led Campus Tour, 4pm Santa Catalina School Virtual Open House Series. January 9–21 See website to for events offered and to register santacatalina.org/upperschool/admission/admission-fairs/open-houses
JANUARY 2021 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz
MONDAY 11 National Clean Your Desk Day National Human Trafficking Awareness Day National Human Trafficking Awareness Day on January 11 raises awareness of the persistent issue of human trafficking. Though the entire month of January has already been recognized as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, this day is specifically dedicated to awareness and prevention of the illegal practice. This holiday is also separate from the World Day Against Trafficking Persons, as established by the United Nations. Since the Senate established this day of observance in 2007, it has drawn massive public support from individual donations to governmentorganized events.
TUESDAY 12 Meet Our Students, 4pm. Santa Catalina School Virtual Open House Series. January 9–21 See website to for events offered and to register santacatalina.org/upper-school/admission/ admission-fairs/open-houses
National Rubber Ducky Day The popular toy has seen a lot of variations in its history. First designed in the 1800s when rubber manufacturing began, the duck was then made out of plastic and vinyl during both World Wars, as rubber was scarce. The ducky toy was first patented in 1928 by Landon Smart Lawrence, but the toy was a little heavier back then—he put a weight in it to make sure it would always stay upright. If you’re every out in the ocean, you might just run into a rubber ducky. 28,000 rubber ducks on their way via boat to Washington went overboard during a storm in 1992. It’s been said that the ducks floated north to the Arctic, got trapped in the ice, and were slowly thawed out into the Atlantic Ocean. National Sticker Day
THURSDAY 14 National Dress Up Your Pet Day
FRIDAY 15 Martin Luther King’s Birthday National Bagel Day National Hat DayArts & EntertainmentFashion
SATURDAY 16 National Fig Newton Day National Nothing Day
JANUARY CELEBRATIONS SUNDAY 17
WEDNESDAY 20 SATURDAY 23
Catalina's Curriculum, 4pm. Santa Catalina School Virtual Open House Series. January 9–21 See website to for events offered and to register santacatalina.org/upper-school/admission/ admission-fairs/open-houses Michelle Obama's Birthday
Gateway School Tours by Appointment January 19 and 20, 2021, 9:30am-3:00pm. Gateway School, 255 Swift Street. Come and learn how Gateway School inspires curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking through innovative education for a fast-changing world. You’ll have the opportunity to see the health and safety protocols of our facilities while also learning more about our curriculum. Visit www.gatewaysc.org to make an appointment for a personalized, individual tour of our campus. National Cheese Lover’s Day
MONDAY 18
Spring Hill School Virtual Open House 10:00 am and 1:00 pm. Small classes. Big learning. Email admissions@ springhillschool.org. 831-427-2641 Birth Network of Santa Cruz County presents this FREE live Zoom event: Meet the Doulas at 4pm. Learn about how doulas support families through the birth and postpartum experience during our current Covid situation. Preregister at BirthNetSantaCruz.EventBrite.com and for more information visit BirthNet.org Birth Network of Santa Cruz County presents this FREE live Zoom event: Meet the Doulas at 4pm. Learn about how doulas support families through the birth and postpartum experience during our current Covid situation. Preregister at BirthNetSantaCruz.EventBrite.com and for more information visit BirthNet.org National Pie Day Sponsored by the American Pie Council (yes, that’s a real thing!), National Pie Day lets us enjoy one of our favorite desserts guilt-free. While pie exists in some form all over the world, the United States has an inextricable relationship with the flaky dessert.
SUNDAY 24 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Each year on the third Monday of January we observe Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and reflect on the work that still needs to be done for racial equality. This January 18, make the holiday more than just a day off and take time to reflect and take action on civil rights issues across the globe. The concept of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as a holiday was promoted by labor unions. After King’s death, US representative John Conyers and US Senator Edward Brooke introduced a bill in Congress to make King’s birthday a national holiday. National Thesaurus Day National Winnie the Pooh Day
TUESDAY 19 Gateway School Tours by Appointment January 19 and 20, 2021, 9:30am-3:00pm. Gateway School, 255 Swift Street. Come and learn how Gateway School inspires curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking through innovative education for a fast-changing world. You’ll have the opportunity to see the health and safety protocols of our facilities while also learning more about our curriculum. Visit www.gatewaysc.org to make an appointment for a personalized, individual tour of our campus. Meet Our Parents, 5pm. Santa Catalina School Virtual Open House Series. January 9–21 See website to for events offered and to register santacatalina.org/upper-school/admission/ admission-fairs/open-houses National Popcorn Day
National Penguin Day We love penguins for lots of reasons: They walk around in tuxedos, they have a cute waddle, and they’re unique! And to show that we care, we observe National Penguin Day on January 20. While this day celebrates the penguins, it’s also a time to think about saving them. Many penguin colonies have been lost to climate change and it’s estimated that half the population of emperor penguins will vanish by the end of this century. We can start to help these endangered creatures by focusing on environmental issues.
WEDNESDAY 27
International Holocaust Remembrance Day From 1941 to 1945 Nazi Germany and its collaborators committed the systematic murder of over six million Jews. The Holocaust, also known as the Shoah, was Nazi Germany’s “Final Solution” for eliminating all Jewish people within Nazi Germany’s grasp. By the end of this heinous act, roughly two-thirds of Europe’s Jewish population had been murdered. The United Nations General Assembly’s resolution 60/7 designated International Holocaust Remembrance Day on November 1, 2005, during the 42nd plenary session. Join us on January 27 for International Holocaust Remembrance Day when remember the Nazi’s act of genocide so that no one else will suffer like that again.
THURSDAY 28 National Lego Day
FRIDAY 29 National Puzzle Day
THURSDAY 21 In the Classroom, 4pm. Santa Catalina School Virtual Open House Series. January 9–21 See website to for events offered and to register santacatalina.org/upper-school/admission/ admission-fairs/open-houses National Banana Bread Day National Hugging Day National Squirrel Appreciation Day
FRIDAY 22 National Answer Your Cat's Questions Day Your kitty has questions and January 22 is the day to be answering them, hence it is known as Answer Your Cat’s Questions Day. What child hasn’t promised their cat that if they just reveal they can speak, they’ll keep the secret? On this special day, we’re listening to each meow and trying to understand just what that cat is getting at – we just wish they had speech bubbles above their head like Garfield!
National Compliment Day The power of a compliment is pretty remarkable: either giving or receiving one can boost your happiness and confidence — making the act a win-win. You never know when someone could use some good vibes, so spread the positivity by giving someone a reason to smile!
SATURDAY 30
National Peanut Butter Day
National Backward Day
MONDAY 25
Source: NationalToday.com
National Fun at Work Day National Irish Coffee Day Opposite Day
TUESDAY 26 National Peanut Brittle Day National Spouses Day
National Croissant Day
SUNDAY 31 GUiSC will attempt to update the calendar listings as needed; however, it is the responsibility of the organization listed to provide updated information. GUiSC assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Readers are encouraged to check the accuracy of the information provided. Events that are free or cost less than $10 can be submitted for inclusion in the calendar. GUiSC does not guarantee that a submitted event will automatically be included. Preference is given for events of interest to children and/ or parents. Calendar entries must be received by the 15th of the month prior to the month of the event. Calendar entries and photos will be selected by the Calendar Editor. Please email christy@growingupsc.com.
GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2021
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TEACHER'S DESK Carry Forward BY LISA CATTERALL The past gets carried with us. It’s always there. – Ann Pearlman Two days ago the sky finally poured a real amount of rain on our beautiful mountaintop school. The next day the sun shone brightly and the forest looked as if every twig was decorated with a tiny sparkling diamond. The moss was so green it seemed lit from within. During the last week before the holiday break, I always give myself permission to enjoy my students in a different context than the normal “delivering of curriculum and pouncing on the learning moments” that helps them to develop. We have time to simply be together. We can’t have a potluck and holiday movie this year, but we can certainly go for a walk. I took my sixth graders to a clearing with rope swings suspended from one of the biggest oak trees I’ve ever seen, and as I watched them play joyfully, something began to settle back to normal for me. There’s no logic to feeling that way as the pandemic worsens, but perhaps I was feeling a new normal. That made me wonder what we will carry forward from this unusual year. The sad thing would be to call it “baggage.” I’m hoping if we have baggage, it’s a lovely brand-new bag by
our favorite designer or gear company, filled with goodies. I can already see some of the treasures in that bag. The greatest treasure is appreciating coming together and gathering. Truly being grateful for it. I’ve always loved spending time with my students and colleagues, but I know that the first time we can do that with no masks and with freedom from worry, I will embrace it like never before. I know that I will have a lingering memory of this time of distance and when the pattern of this pandemic emerges in my thoughts or habits, I will be grateful it’s over, all over again. I will have many moments of simply appreciating the magic of things I never gave a thought to before. Like seeing my students’ full, present faces while I teach. There are practical treasures. I suddenly work with a team of expert online teachers who are more creative and resourceful now than they have ever been. Together we will imagine new experiences and possibilities, and new connections we can make for our school community using an entirely new toolkit. We have all expanded our vocabulary and our language and we can talk about new ways of doing school that add to the old way.
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The greatest treasure is appreciating coming together and gathering. Truly being grateful for it.
Our school went back to in-person instruction, so we all found new ways to teach outdoors. We have a new amphitheater to allow our performing arts instruction to continue during the pandemic, and when the pandemic is over, I think we will use it every day. If I get to return to my classroom one year after closing the door, it will feel like coming home. There is a treasure in how this year has confirmed that curriculum delivery is one of the least important functions of a teacher. We know that we can be here for our students when times are hard, but this year we all felt it more deeply. Teachers who made it through this year did it for their students, because when all the tools glitched or quit, expressing compassion for each other was what was left. And it was just too hard, with too many obstacles, to do it for any other reason. Students and their families saw this, and expressed more gratitude and appreciation than ever before, and I believe that will not end when the world is vaccinated. I was watching a holiday movie in
which an eight year old goes shopping in a grocery store by himself. As I watched him walk the aisles I was thinking about the germs coming from the people he passed, not the movie, and I wondered if I will ever stop doing that. Maybe another treasure will be that we understand better is how to avoid giving each other colds every year. Whatever happens, I have no doubt that schools, teachers, and parents will not go back to functioning together in exactly the same way. There isn’t a single person in any school community who was never touched by this, and most everyone was called to do things they had not imagined. I’d like to imagine that we will emerge from this year, and this winter, ready to carry forward, stronger and more compassionate. Lisa Catterall teaches STEAM, math, science, and art at Mount Madonna School and is a senior associate of the Centers for Research on Creativity. She lectures and trains teachers and administrators on innovation in education in Beijing, China. Lisa has five children and lives in Santa Cruz County.
salesianschool.org l 831-728-5518 14
JANUARY 2021 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz
HEALTHY EATING Approaching Health in the New Year
Recipe
Ketogenic Winter Cabbage Soup
Winter Wellness Through an Ayurvedic Lens BY GRETCHEN MCNELIS
INGREDIENTS:
It is 2021! Congratulations! You made it! We all deserve a pat on the back now that the long haul we have called 2020 is over. 2021 will start with its share of bumps, I am sure. Yet, I cannot help but have a real sense of hope for this coming year. The beginning of the year finds us smack in the middle of winter. In the natural world, things have slowed down, retreated even for the season. Light is shorter, dark is longer. Keeping in sync with the rhythms of the planet, winter is for long slumbers—a time to rest and reflect, to hold space and process. And what a year behind us to process! COVID-19, fires, distance learning for most families, financial and political stress. We have all felt it. Ayurveda is the ancient, traditional medicine system of India. The oldest continuously practiced branch of healing arts is known to us. One of Ayurveda's foundational principles is keeping in time with the seasons, in both diet and lifestyle. Ayurveda in depth, becomes very personalized to an individual's unique body composition and personality. The following are winter health tips accessible to all body types (referred to as your dosha) and personality types, no matter where you fall on the spectrum. With the downtime that naturally comes with winter, this one offering extra with COVID-19 restrictions, the introspection at times can feel heavy. Self-care has been vital all year; starting 2021 will be no different in this area. Getting 7 to 8 hours of good rest is essential, as well as an energizing morning routine. Consider starting your morning off with warm lemon water. Yes, before caffeinating. If your digestion is sluggish, add some bitters. If things are not digesting and moving too fast for you, add some mint or ginger. Bitters will help hydrate you, is a vitamin C boost, and helps prime your digestion for the day. Add a pinch of sea salt for some added electrolytes after sleeping. In winter, the body is busy spending more energy to keep itself warm. Go for warm, cooked foods that are well-spiced to help with winter digestion. Healthy
fats like coconut oil, grass-fed ghee, and olive oil are super nourishing to the cells. Heartier vegetables such as cabbage, beets, squashes, onions, and braising greens are winter go tos. Use warming spices in the kitchen. At the end of this article, I will include a simple recipe for an all-purpose ayurvedic winter spice blend to incorporate these spices into everyday meals. Reach for warm teas and milk over cold beverages. Always eat with leaving a little room for digestion in mind and have an earlier, lighter dinner. In Ayurveda, digestion is peak midday. Lunch should be the largest, most substantial meal. Working out in winter can seem unmotivating at times. Gyms are also restricted. However, you do not need a gym to get moving. Depending on where your body, heart, and mind is, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor winter home workout options. A brisk paced walk is an exercise that is instantly available to the majority of us. A bodyweight HIIT workout with just you, your body, and a floor can be helpful. Yoga can offer a range of experiences, from beginner to advanced vinyasa flow to restorative yoga to move lymph and calm the nervous system. Restorative yoga is an excellent choice for evenings or when you are feeling a lot of emotions. When you need an emotional pick me up, as well as a physical boost, turn on some music and dance it out! Not only is it fun, but studies show dancing improves the mental outlook, releases endorphins, and can torch calories in half an hour. Loving ourselves through good nutrition and lifestyle habits that reflect our inherent roots in nature will help get us through the winter and set us up for a beautiful spring season. I look forward to witnessing the days getting longer and the first blossoms of spring make their appearance for 2021, to seeing new, green growth in our wounded but so resilient Redwood forests. May 2021 be a year of collective healing for all the Earth's "tissues" and living beings.
Avocado Oil 4 Minced Garlic Cloves Diced Sweet Onion Bell Pepper, Color of Choice, Diced 3 Diced Celery Stalks 32 oz Chicken Bone Broth 4 Cups Water 2 tbl Apple Cider Vinegar 15 oz Can Fire Roasted Tomatoes 2 Cups Fresh or Frozen Green Beans Sea Salt and Pepper 2 Bay Leaves 1 Bunch Fresh Thyme, Taken Off Stems 1 Bunch Oregano, Chopped 1 Tbl Winter Warming Spices (See Below) 2 Cups Shredded Green Cabbage
DIRECTIONS:
In a large soup pot over medium heat, add avocado oil and sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery. Add minced garlic. Cook for 5 minutes. Add bone broth, water, and cider vinegar. Add remaining ingredients. Turn heat to low and cook for another 15 minutes or until cabbage and green beans are tender. Remove bay leaves and season with sea salt and black pepper. Enjoy
Winter Warming Spices
2 tbl ground cumin, fennel, and turmeric 1 tbl ground fenugreek, coriander and dried basil 2 tsp ground ginger 2 tsp sea salt and black pepper
Recipe by Biscuits & Beets
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BY KIM YOUNG Kim Young is an ambassador for the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation
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The decline of the monarch butterfly began in the 1980s and continues today but there is hope. Many species have been brought back.
The Western Monarch is in Peril The western monarch butterfly (Danas plexippus) is in peril and not just dire but enough to be of such concern that in 2014 a petition was submitted to the United States Fish and Wildlife for consideration as an endangered species. On December 15th, 2020 we finally got that decision, United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) deemed the western monarch butterfly was “warranted but precluded” to be put on the Endangered Species Act. Western monarch butterflies are in what is called an extinction vortex. Western monarchs have declined from millions in the ’80s to less than 2,000 from the current western monarch Thanksgiving count done by the Xerces Society every year. What is of more concern is another count is done at New Years and typically there is about a 40% reduction in butterflies from the Thanksgiving count to the New Year’s count. Much is needed to save this iconic butterfly but the actions needed to take a concerned collective effort from cities, large landowners, many private landowners, and citizen scientists. The thing that we can do on the central coast is plant habitat, lots of nectar plants for the monarch butterflies. Planting nectar plants give them much needed fuel for their migration and breeding cycle. I am a Monterey Peninsula native. I was born in Carmel and grew up on the Monterey Peninsula and remember looking up from the playground in the fall and seeing thousands of monarch butterflies flying overhead returning to the overwintering sites along the central coast. Also, our local school district from kindergarten on always had the monarch butterfly in our curriculum. This butterfly has often stirred immense desire to work diligently to save it and yet we are now facing a most dire situation. What can be done, I’m often asked.
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Many try to plant more milkweed but milkweed alone will not save monarchs. There is no one reason but many reasons why the numbers keep falling of this iconic butterfly. It is degradation of overwintering sites, loss of habitat, climate change, our summers are getting hotter and the wildfires have contributed to a loss of habitat, loss of native plants and chemical use regarding insecticides and herbicides. There was a current study that sampled milkweed and found pesticide contamination in all samples. Their findings found 25 different insecticides 27 fungicides, 11 herbicides and 1 adjuvant. It is important to note that Tropical milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) commonly sold in box stores and a colorful milkweed but should be avoided in planting as it has been problematic regarding OE (Ophryocysis elektroscirrha) a debilitating protozoan parasite that infects monarchs and can possibly be contributing to the decline as well. One of the other factors of tropical milkweed which is not a native milkweed and such does not die back in the winter as native milkweeds do is continue to grow year-round on the central coast. The OE spores continue to collect on the plant and since the plant does not get cut back or die the monarchs stay to feed and lay eggs and not go into diapause (a form of rest, of suspended development during the winter) and then when conditions are favorable such as temperature and season change the monarch begins their migration and leave over-wintering sites breeding, looking for milkweed and nectar for their migration journey. Milkweeds should not be planted in areas that are within five miles of the coast as they were not historically growing there and as to not disrupt the reproductive cycle
JANUARY 2021 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz
of the monarch butterflies. Also, there is a concern from the latest studies that hand-raising monarch butterflies can contribute to weakening their migratory instincts and also alter their DNA. Then quite possibly as they mate with wild monarchs weaken and alter the gene pool.
The decline of the monarch butterfly began in the 1980s and continues today but there is hope. Many species have been brought back. There is hard work ahead of us for it will take a collective effort to bring up the numbers. Please contact the Xerces Society xerces.org for more information.
Observing Monarchs Magical Daily Dance BY MIMI CHAPPELEAR
Mimi is a local Santa Cruz artist and photographer. She recently helped take care of monarch butterflies. If you want to see a video of a monarch emerging check out her Instagram account @beach_scavenger. There you will also see my passion for sea glass and local fossils.
BUTTERFLY The female monarch butterfly lays a tiny egg on the underside of a milkweed leaf or on top of the plant.
THE EGG The egg stage lasts from 4 to 8 days. When the egg hatches, the caterpillar will eat the eggshell from the inside until it emerges and there it will continue to feast on the leaf.
TINY CATERPILLAR The caterpillar stage lasts between 10 to 14 days.
ADULT CATERPILLAR Caterpillars do not stay in this stage very long as they quickly double in size in just a few days
GREEN CHRYSALIS Inside the chrysalis, the caterpillar is rapidly changing. The body of the caterpillar is undergoing a transformation, called ‘metamorphosis,’ to become the beautiful monarch butterfly that will emerge.
TRANSPARENT CHRYSALIS The chrysalis becomes transparent and the wings can be seen as clear as day. At this stage, the butterfly will come out at any moment!
MALE BUTTERFLY The male Monarch Butterfly can be easily distinguished from the female. The male has two highly visible black spots on the insect's hind wings and the black webbing is thinner.
FEMALE BUTTERFLY Unlike the male monarch, the female has thicker black webbing and does not have black spots on each side of the wings.
Butterfly Gardening
Bring Beauty and Biodiversity to Your Yard BY DANA ABBOTT
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Planting nectar flowers to attract butterflies, adds color to your yard and sustains a variety of pollinators, including hummingbirds and bees.
Families working from home are discovering the rewards of butterfly gardening. Planting nectar flowers to attract butterflies, adds color to your yard and sustains a variety of pollinators, including hummingbirds and bees. “I purposefully landscape with pollinators in mind,” says Kathy ReimerPearson, a docent at the Monarch Butterfly Trail at Natural Bridges State Park in Santa Cruz. Monarchs, painted ladies, buckeyes, and gray hairstreaks feed on the Mexican sunflowers and pincushions in Kathy’s yard. “The gold fritillary love passion vine,” Kathy notes. Aside from the fresh air, and increase in bird life, gardening gives Kathy perspective on how dependent we are on butterflies to pollinate our food crops. Native plants delight an entire ecosystem of insects and birds, require minimal care, and thrive in our area. “Some native flowers attract so-called “specialist” butterflies that are drawn to one species
of plant with specific characteristics,” says Taelor Whittington of Central Coast Wilds Nursery, in Santa Cruz. Taelor recommends asking your local nursery where the plants have been sourced. Plant with seeds that have been collected locally but “if local genetics aren’t available,” says Taelor, “using plants from a similar ecoregion is a great next step.” Santa Cruz native shrubs and trees, including varieties of manzanita, blue blossoms, buckeyes, and yerba santa, can collaborate with flowers, such as salvias, buckwheats, seaside daisy, and yarrow in enticing butterflies to your yard. Loss of habitat, forest fires, and climate change have greatly reduced the butterfly population. Pesticides kill butterflies. Employ ladybugs, or a mild solution of dish soap and water, for aphids. Check the label on any plant soap for neonicotinoids, which kill pollinators. The Xerces Society For Invertebrate Conservation advises local residents
to avoid planting milkweed within five miles of the coast. Planting milkweed too close to our coastal overwintering grounds can interrupt the monarch’s natural migration cycle, leading to a higher risk of mortality. If you live inland, planting milkweed that is native to your area is the best option. Avoid tropical milkweed sold in many nurseries. This variety is a host to the “OE” parasite that disrupts the development of the monarch and decreases its survival. The Xerces Society’s Western Monarch Thanksgiving Count for 2020 suggests that the monarch migration is at an all-time low. No monarchs showed up at the Pacific Grove Sanctuary as of early December, and only 550 monarchs were seen at Natural Bridges State Beach area this season. The Western Monarch population has declined by 99 percent, and may soon be classified as an Endangered Species by US Fish and Wildlife. Overall, most butterfly species are in decline in California, as reported at the low-elevation monitoring sites. Informed gardeners can play a crucial role in helping butterflies survive. For more information and pollinator plant lists: xerces.org | calscape.org
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YOUR HEALTH Creative Workouts When the World is Running Down BY JEANETTE PRATHER
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Over 25 local women shared their pandemicclad workouts, expanding beyond their limits and quite literally pushing boundaries.
Hey, Santa Cruz! There is no stopping you from getting into shape, despite SIP orders. From social distancing-appropriate outdoor workouts, to at-home individual exercising, to participating in an online accountability group, to spending time in nature while you sweat, creativity is abundant around these parts. Over 25 local women shared their pandemic-clad workouts, expanding beyond their limits and quite literally pushing boundaries. Let’s take a deep dive into the ways that you made the best use of working out while staying safe in 2020:
APPS “I’ve been using the app Seven (Seven.app) first thing in the morning, as well as taking long walks.” - Elizabeth Tavenner Anderson “I’ve been getting workouts off TikTok (TikTok.com/en). If I see something that I like or want to try, I save it. It’s a fun way to try different things that can fit into my lifestyle. And I can build my own regime with them.” - Kristin Suzanne Wyatt
IN-PERSON & ONLINE WORKOUTS “Jennifer Hardwick and Perfect Union (facebook.com/ PerfectUnion)! They pivoted so fast and are awesome for their super supportive community!” - Crissy Diaz “I did tons of workouts via Popsugar Fitness (Active.Popsugar. com), but after the SIP was lifted, I started working out with GOAT Santa Cruz (GoatSantaCruz.com). This outdoor training changed my body within weeks and lifted my mood tremendously.” - Patricia Eggers “I’m a member of Toadal Fitness (ToadalFitness.com) on the Westside, and at the beginning of SIP orders, they offered their equipment to members for athome use free of charge! I can’t speak more highly of Toadal Fitness during this time and what they’ve done for their members. I also participated in a lot of the Zoom classes from home, about five days per week. Staying connected to my trainers is very motivating and has kept me sane. Now, I’m working out in their parking lot doing T.X.T (Toadal Cross-training) with my favorite trainer. There are a lot of safety measure that they’ve put in
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place, I’m very impressed. I feel safe taking classes outside.” - Bonnie Friedenbach “In addition to offering our outdoor socially distanced workouts (both early morning mom-only and mid-morning stroller-based) with FIT4MOM Santa Cruz (Fit4Mom. com), we also have OnDemand virtual workouts, too.” - Jessica Hassani “I’ve been a member of our local Jazzercise group (Jazzercise.com/ location/jazzercise-santa-cruz) since 2017 and absolutely love it. I highly recommend getting in touch with the franchise owner, Robin Berkery. She’s done an awesome job of adapting to this crazy time! Classes are streamed on their private Facebook page. Jazzercise Inc. (Jazzercise.com) has given all members access to a few classes a week that can be re-watched. They’re also doing one-to-two outside classes a week in Seabright that are streamed, or you can RSVP and attend in person.” - Sascha Landry “Worldanz (Worldanz.com) on Zoom with Gina Garcia, she’s awesome and local.” - Reyna Marie “Running in neighborhoods I’ve always wanted to explore. Echelon (Echelonfit.com) bike while listening to podcasts. Zoom and outdoor Jiu Jitsu at Gracie (GracieSantaCruz.com).” - Shell Mc Neal “I’m taking advantage of all the online pole and acro classes. I usually have time to do my ab routine and splits routine before I start [remote] working. Whenever I have a work break, I try to do something like a set of pull-ups. I highly suggest a pull-up bar to anyone who is missing the gym or aerial studio.” - Jody Ryker
ONLINE-ONLY COMMUNITIES | PLATFORMS “I used to teach in-person Pilates classes, but had shifted to online offerings about two years ago. I have a subscription service with on-demand Pilates workouts, meditations, and live Zoom classes (KyAutumn.com). Workouts are short and designed to be done daily for maximum stress relief benefits.” - Ky Carnell Russell “Synergy (SynergyMoves.com) is offering online dance, fitness, and yoga classes through a Zoom membership. They are live-
JANUARY 2021 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz
streamed and then available to members for replay via YouTube. I mostly do a time-efficient intense workout, which includes running the stairs at our apartment building, circuit training with Dumbbells, and Tabata HIIT.” - Caitlin Fahey “I used to teach yoga in person at Luma Yoga and La Madrona, plus my own private yoga students. Since COVID, I’ve gone to completely distanced teaching. Now I teach private sessions of one-to-five people on Zoom and on my outdoor deck (or theirs, if they have one), and have built an online class library (linktr.ee/ RobinPenneyYoga).” - Robin Penney “I take two yoga classes via Zoom a week, do Zumba videos online, and go jogging. I’m also teaching three yoga classes a week online (CapitolaFitness.com and PacificCultural.org), which has been its own learning experience!” - Rachel Sonnenblick “I’ve been a Beach Body (BeachBody.com) coach for three years out of Scotts Valley (facebook. com/AmandaPapanda). Prior to that, I was 30 lbs. overweight with two young children and some health problems. If I don’t have accountability doing something, I’m less likely to finish a goal. That’s what this online community is about. I offer a virtual workout every morning, share recipes, nutrition information, and have over 100 members in my group. I’ve seen friendships form because of this platform, and it’s really fun to complete a program with a bunch of other people. There is more engagement since COVID because people just really need that connection right now. The community thrives together, it’s so valuable.” - Amanda McEachen Steele “Palomar (PalomarBallroom.com) Zoom dancing.” - Ruby Straehley “I’m a Santa Cruz-based Beach Body coach (mysite.Coach.TeamBeachBody. com/?coachId=2331758&locale=en_US) and I offer a challenge group locally. We follow all the programs that Beach Body has to offer and being a coach over these past six months has been amazing. I give my group access to nutrition plans and recipes, supplements, as well as workouts. You can do everything from your house or even go outside and do it; you don’t need that much space. Also, a lot of people aren’t making the same type of money they used to, and Beach Body is cost-effective. You have a coach that comes with your membership and helps walk you through everything. I’ve made more friends in the community than doing anything else. It’s changed my life; how I am and how I interact with people.” - Amanda Torrente
OUTDOOR WORKOUTS “I started running circles in my notoverly large backyard. Some people think I’m nuts, but me and my newly 40lb. lighter self, do not care.” - Andrea Hills “I hike, bike, and walk on the regular.” - Amy Jellison “I get cardio in by walking my dog twice a day, and then I do chair yoga for my sanity and strength.” - Deborah Jellison “Handstands! I try to get myself to jog (at a glacial pace, at least) a mile at least twice per week. Aerial improv/noodling whenever I feel like it.” - Caitlin Lackey “Daily 4-mile jogs after Zooming with TK/K students for more than two hours is a must physically and mentally. Hikes/walks with my kiddos three to four times a week, yoga, Pilates or a night workout with the Gaia app (Gaia.com) when children are sleeping.” - Michelle Schwindler “Dancing on my mini trampoline.” - Heather Troy
PELOTON | SPIN BIKES “I got a Peloton (OnePeloton.com) and while I’m not a crazy cycler, the instructors are amazing and even a 10- or 20-minute class crushes me! I love the strength, bootcamp and barre classes.” - Melissa Banks “I rode my non-Peloton spin bike and did kettlebell training at home. When I was able to get some mommy alone time, I rode my mountain bike on the various trails in Henry Cowell Redwoods and steeper roads in my neighborhood.” - Jessica Lindsey “I ride [Peloton] every day and take many of the other classes, too. Investing in my health and happiness is always important.” - Sara Martinez Bass Aluffi “Peloton.” - Seanna wchantz
PARENTING How to Teach Children Lovingkindness Meditation BY SANDI SCHWARTZ
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We must love ourselves before we can love others and offer kindness to the world around us. This month is all about love, so what better way to expand our love for ourselves and others than by learning how to practice lovingkindness meditation and sharing the experience with our children?
Understanding Loving kindness Meditation
Also called Metta or compassion meditation, lovingkindness meditation is one of the most commonly practiced types of meditations out there. Quite simply, it is the practice of directing positive thoughts and well wishes to ourselves and others. It may seem odd at first, but you can easily learn it. As you sit comfortably with your eyes closed, imagine what you wish for your life. The four phrases that you either say out loud or think silently during the practice are typically: May I/you be safe. May I/you be healthy and strong. May I/you be happy. May I/you be peaceful and at ease.
You repeat these wishes, directing them first to yourself and then towards different people in your life as follows: 1. Start by directing the phrases to yourself. 2. Next, direct the metta towards someone you feel thankful for or who has helped you. 3. Now visualize someone you feel neutral about—people you neither like nor dislike. Direct the thoughts to that person. 4. Next, direct the thoughts to someone you don’t like or who you are having a difficult time dealing with. 5. Finally, direct the metta towards everyone universally: May all beings everywhere be happy.
Benefits Of Lovingkindness Meditation
Practicing loving kindness meditation ultimately changes how we relate to ourselves and others; we start to feel less isolated and more connected. According to meditation expert and author Sharon Salzberg, “When we practice it, we acknowledge that every one of us shares the same wish to be happy, and the same vulnerability to change and suffering. We can shift the way we view ourselves and others—with kindness instead of criticism.” Scientific research shows how lovingkindness meditation leads to positive changes in the brain. Just as performing acts of kindness gives us a natural high, sitting and practicing this meditation can cause the same changes in our bodies and minds. Loving kindness meditation brings so many amazing benefits to our lives such as: • Reducing stress and anxiety • Lifting our mood and producing more positive emotions • Increasing feelings of hope • Decreasing physical and emotional pain • Reducing anger • ncreasing positive social emotions toward new people as well as loved ones • Activating empathy • Improving social connection • Increasing self-love and how we feel about ourselves
Practicing loving kindness meditation ultimately changes how we relate to ourselves and others; we start to feel less isolated and more connected.
them like a bully at school. Children can develop a sense of power as they gain self-love and compassion for others. The practice is special since it goes beyond cultural barriers, economic situations, educational backgrounds, and geographic locations. It is also very simple and does not require any equipment. We can teach our children about lovingkindness by helping them send the four wishes to different people in their lives. Don’t be afraid to get creative and ask your children to come up with their own loving thoughts. They can also send their wishes to favorite objects in their lives like a pet, television or book character, toy, or stuffed animal. You can also go through the wishes by saying them to each other. One mother explained how she incorporated lovingkindness meditation into their family’s bedtime routine. She says May You Be Happy and then the children repeat it back to her. They go through
this process a few times, repeating the different phrases. This month is the perfect time to teach your children how to spread love through lovingkindness meditation. It is also a tool that they can take with them throughout the year, helping them to feel happier, calmer, healthier, and better connected to others.
Enjoy these children’s books about lovingkindness meditation: Audrey’s Journey: Loving Kindness by Kerry Alison Wekelo Loving-Kindness Meditation by Sami Jo Meditation for Kids: The Loving Kindness by Olivia Brown Moose’s Mindful Mantra by Mernette Martin Zen Learns Lovingkindness (A Boy Named Zen) by Jeremiah Lee Olson
How To Share This Practice With Your Children After learning about all the benefits, don’t you just want to share some lovingkindness with your kids right now? This type of meditation allows children to get in touch with their feelings. It can help guide them in sending positive and healing energy to people and children in other places—even those who have hurt
GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2021
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LOCAL NEWS Giving Birth During a Pandemic Can Be the Right Time BY ASHLEY CARONE
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I gave birth at home during the pandemic. Here is why there has never been a more appropriate time to birth at home. Because my first child was born during the 2013 Ebola scare, I was somewhat mentally prepared when this year, at six months pregnant, I heard the first reports of coronavirus. I never imagined it would escalate to its current state which has created a world far different than the one my older daughter was born into. And yet, because I chose home birth, my pregnancy, birth and postpartum experiences have been largely unaffected due to the choice I made to birth at home. The pandemic has brought our family a gift. In shedding light on the many disparities that are present in our societywidening the gaps in areas of healthcare, poverty, education, able-ism, sexism, the list goes on, this great unveiling has also shown us what is ultimately important at the root of it all—family, human connection, relationships, nature and our health. If you find yourself pregnant or wanting to start a family in the midst of this, don’t let the most foundational human experience of our lives be marred by the virus. It still can be a beautiful and connected experience if you choose healthcare that supports it. I want to paint a picture for you of how it can be to birth at home, versus the “that’s just how it is” in the western medical model of birth. Currently, prenatal appointments happen only when there is something clinical that needs to occur, like an exam or a lab test. These appointments are 15 minutes and you go alone. One of the most special moments in pregnancy is hearing your baby’s heartbeat for the first time. Do you want that to be over FaceTime or be holding your partner’s hand? Once you are in labor, you go
into the hospital for triage alone and masked, subjected to temperature checks, exposure questionnaires and nasal swab tests, while having contractions. Only when you are deemed in active labor and admitted, is your partner allowed to be with you, and only your partner is allowed— no doulas, no family members. Depending on hospital policies, you are forced to labor while wearing a mask— heavy breathing and all. Your baby’s first visual of your face is masked, and all the hospital staff is masked and suited up, face shields, gowns, the works. It is a sterile environment and you are whisked in and out in as little time as possible to avoid excessive exposure. Once you are home, you are alone for six weeks straight before you are seen by someone who can support you in your postpartum period, unless you have money to pay for a postpartum doula to come to your house. When you take your baby to the pediatrician, it is another quick, sterile, masked experience, if you even go in person, many practitioners are doing everything on Telehealth that they can. I have heard that the infamous six-week checkup is often even done over Telehealth. A recent study on pre-pandemic vs pandemic postpartum depression showed rates were up to 40 percent from their previous 15 percent— I wonder why. You could choose this reality, OR, you could choose something that is as old as humanity itself, birth at home, attended by skilled and licensed professional midwives. All your appointments are in person, either in their office or in your home, depending on which midwife you hire. Your partner as well as your kids or other family members are welcome at your appointments. You can listen to your baby’s heartbeat for the first time surrounded by people you love. When
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The silver lining of the pandemic is the added layer of insulation that it gives new parents.
you go to your appointments there is no cold, sterile environment and front office to first pass through, no receptionist asking you questions about exposure and taking your temperature. You just go to the office, wear a mask of course, and have an entire hour to check-in with your midwife and chat about anything that is coming up for you during your pregnancy— stress, your relationships, supplements and herbs to take, your baby’s movement, dreams you’ve had, discomforts you’ve been experiencing, your visions for the birth- anything that comes to mind. When it comes time to birth, you are home in the comfort and safety of the nest you have carefully built for yourself over the past months in preparation for your baby’s arrival. Your midwives come to you quietly and sit patiently at your side, present but not interfering or prodding. You and baby are taken care of and if anything starts to veer outside of what is medically safe, the hospital is always an option, but due to the preventative high-quality care that midwifery requires, it is rare, and if a transfer to the hospital is called for, it is usually done far in advance of anything becoming an emergency. Once your baby is born into your (or your partner’s) own hands, they are on your chest, never separated. Their first vision is your face beaming down at them in its entirety. The first words they hear are only your partner’s and yours. The birth is your own. After the birth you are cared for at home for several hours until you are stable and tucked into bed, fed and given instructions on how to care for your body and baby. 24 hours later your midwives return to check on you and baby, then three days later, a week later, three weeks later, and of course, the six-week appointment. All of these visits occur at home with the latter occurring in the office once you are back up on your feet. Your postpartum time is supported, and your midwives are licensed to provide medical care to both you and your newborn through six weeks. I write this in great detail because many people are shocked to hear they don’t have to go anywhere after their baby is born, that the midwives come to them rather than the other way around. Isn’t that the way it should be? Your body just went through a marathon and it is time to rest! The silver lining of the pandemic is the added layer of insulation that it gives new parents. There is nowhere to go, nothing to do, no FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), and being at home
is what is best for baby at this pivotal and delicate time of life. I want you and your baby to have the best start to life possible, and I know that if more people knew about midwifery care, and if it were more accessible financially, it would be the more common choice. A midwife in Santa Cruz charges between $5000-$6000 for her entire package which includes all your prenatal care (about 15 hour long prenatal visits), your entire birth and postpartum care at home and often includes a tub for water birth as well as the service of being able to get your blood draws and other labs done in the privacy and convenience of her office. This expense may appear quite high if you look at it as one big chunk of money out of your pocket. I don’t know a single midwife in this town who would turn down a pregnant client with an earnest desire for home birth - and I know them all. Where there is a will, there is a way, I have known people to trade services for home birth fees, to take out lines of credit, to be gifted money from family, to receive miraculous checks in the mail that they were owed and forgot about, to create long term payment plans of a few hundred dollars a month, the list goes on. The average couple will spend $30k on their wedding, but when it comes to the birth for some reason the expense is not seen as valued. There are also options for the same kind of close, supportive and personalized care for pregnant people who desire or require a hospital birth. Midwives can provide “cocare”, which means you get the highquality preventive and personalized care face to face in the office for your pregnancy alongside your care from your obstetrician, have your birth in the hospital, and then the midwives come to your home to follow up and continue with your postpartum care. All pregnant people deserve this type of care, no matter where they end up birthing. Most midwives in the area offer this option! I’m writing this to implore you to consider new choices for your pregnancy and birth- especially during the pandemic. There has never been a more appropriate time to choose home birth! There has never been a more pivotal time in human history to make the more human choice- to choose human connection, to invest in preventative healthcare, and to welcome these new babies in a way that is the most gentle and loving way possible.
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One of our guiding philosophies is that viewing the natural beauty of the Elkhorn Slough should have minimal impact on the wildlife and environment.
BY KEVIN PAINCHAUD
Kevin Painchaud is a professional photographer located in Aptos for over 30 years. If you wish to contact Kevin, please email him directly at kpainchaudphotography@gmail.com. You can view his work on Instagram at @painchaudkevin To view more images from this photoshoot please visit GrowingUpSC.com
A Unique and Wonderful Experience
On a beautiful fall afternoon, my daughter Tess and I boarded an all electric catamaran owned by the company Monterey Bay Eco Tours and spent the next hour and a half exploring wildlife of the Elkhorn Slough. It proved to be a unique and wonderful experience that that kept us both excitedly pointing out sea otters, various harbor seals and seal lions and birds of all types. The naturalist on board, Wyatt Henry, provided us with interesting information all about the wildlife, the land and history of the slough. It was such a wonderful trip that was safe not only from sea sickness, but is also a wonderful Covid-safe adventure for all ages. It was also such a pleasure to be onboard this 37-foot custom built catamaran, because it was very quiet and did not give off any noxious fumes, that you often get from other boat charters. The captain and owner of the electric catamaran, Wendy Kitchell, spent some time with me explaining her company,
Monterey Bay Eco Tours. This is a new company on the local charter boat scene that has partnered up with Moss Landing Boat Works for an operating base with the objective of changing the face of the charter boat industry, both locally and beyond. They began the build almost two years ago and went through rigorous Coast Guard testing for the new boat. They opened in March and then closed soon after because of the Covid outbreak With safety features at hand, it opened ing again in June. “One of our guiding philosophies is that viewing the natural beauty of the Elkhorn Slough should have minimal impact on the wildlife and environment,” says Kitchell. “A great step in that direction is the elimination or massive reduction of the noise and pollution caused by fossil fuel powered engines. Utilizing the ancient form of the canoe below the waterline and modern design additions has resulted in
an extremely light, efficient catamaran powered entirely with electricity.” Combining what is currently being developed in battery technology, materials, and manufacturing processes, the owners believe they cannot only change the charter industry, but transform the boat building industry as well. Builder, Joe Kitchell, Wendy’s brother, has spent over 20 years developing not only the design, but also the methods involved in building these boats. The El Cat, is a fully electric, 32-passenger, Coast Guard-certified vessel. It was designed specifically to tour the waters of the Elkhorn Slough, an incredibly diverse and fragile ecosystem vital to the health of Monterey Bay. The Slough is a nursery for fish, a haven for birds and a filter for the system of rivers and creeks that run into the bay. “It is vital we take care of this body of water for future generations,” says Kitchell. “I believe we provide an amazing way to educate the public
about this precious resource aboard an electric vessel, gliding silently through the water so as not to disturb the flocks of migrating birds, families of sea otters, seals, leopard sharks and many more species of marine animals.” The crew includes naturalists with years of giving guided tours of the Elkhorn Slough. They both have degrees in Marine Biology and are both pursuing careers in education and marine research. Kitchell is a licensed captain with 24 years in the Maritime Industry who has captained 500-ton ships. She has worked on boats all over the world as well as captained quite a few passenger charter boats specifically working on the East Coast and the Caribbean where the charter industry is very competitive and so highly innovative. The Eco Tours, she says, “are designed to educate, inspire and intrigue children of all ages.” For more information, check out montereybayecotours.com
GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2021
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YOUR HOME How to Pay for a Home in Santa Cruz BY SEB FREY To write this month’s article, I called my preferred mortgage lender and had a good long chat. He’s one of the top mortgage brokers in town and works with buyers of all stripes. Most of his client’s aren’t platinum-plated Silicon Valley tech elites, they’re mostly ordinary folks from all walks of life who happen to have the wherewithal to actually buy a home in Santa Cruz.
I started by asking about down payment assistance & first-time buyer programs.
It was as I had feared: there’s not much available. The County of Santa Cruz and City of Watsonville still have a first-time buyer program called HOME, but it tops out at a purchase price of $543,000 which limits it to condos and smaller townhomes. CalHFA also offers up to 3% Down payment assistance but charges a premium to participate which essentially washes out any benefit. Outside of this, there is effectively no public assistance for down payments available in Santa Cruz county today.
So then I wanted to know where everyone is getting these down payments, since the government isn’t handing out money.
He was quick to explain that most firsttime home buyers don’t have big down payments. He said he sees a lot of 3%, 3.5%
and 5% down buyers. But even 5% down on a $700,000 purchase is $35,000 – and to that, you’ll need to add another $10-$14K for closing costs. We’re talking $50K as the minimum cash on hand most folks will need to get into a property in Santa Cruz, and that’s a big nut for most people.
be homebuyers is that it’s nearly impossible to save up for a down payment when rents are eating up 50% of their income. As unpalatable as this may sound, many families make the decision to move back in with a parent or other family member to save on rent. If you’re saving $2-3K/month in rent, in a couple of years, you will have saved $50-$70K. INHERITANCE OR GIFT MONEY This happens more than you’d think…but what happens even more frequently is that a parent or other relative gives gift money which is used as a down payment. Contrary to popular belief, there isn’t really a limit on gift money – unless you plan to gift more than $11 million in your lifetime, in which case, there’s a limit. This money is received tax-free and is a great way to come up with a down payment. Understandably, many adult children are hesitant (to say the least) to ask their parents for help with a down payment. However, this is a conversation that happens millions of times per year, going back many decades and spanning continents. You may find that your parents or “rich uncle Chris” may be more willing than you believe to help you out in this regard. Many parents might not have tens of thousands of dollars to gift, so a lot of them turn to tapping into their home’s equity, either with a HELOC (home equity line of credit), cash out refinance, or perhaps a reverse mortgage. RETIREMENT PLAN Lastly, many homebuyers tap into their retirement accounts for the down payment. You can withdraw up to $50K loan from your retirement account to use for the down payment of a home, with many years to pay it back and no impact on your qualifying with the new payment.
income as someone with bad credit. Another issue which I touched on in last month’s article is that buyers have other debts: credit cards, car loans, and student loans are the three biggies. All of these impact your debt to income ratio and reduce the amount of mortgage you can qualify for. Unless you have a really healthy income, eliminating these other debts will likely be a make-or-break factor in terms of your ability to qualify for a large-enough loan. While you are working to save for a down payment you should simultaneously be working to pay off whatever other debts you have. Many would-be homebuyers again reluctantly turn to their family for help with the mortgage payment – at least for the purposes of qualification. You can ask a relative to co-sign the loan for you – which is a big ask, because it makes them responsible for the payments if you fail to. It’s an option that many turn to, because in some cases there is simply no other way forward. The Santa Cruz real estate market is being reshaped by out-of-towners moving in now that so many people can work anywhere they choose. However, it seems not to have occurred to many people here that they can do the same thing: get an “out of town” job without the commute out of town. There are many well-paying jobs “over the hill” that no longer require a daily commute. Contrary to popular belief, not all of these jobs require IT skills or an advanced degree. It may be easier than you think to quickly boost your income to where it is sufficient to qualify for a mortgage for at least a modest home in Santa Cruz. After expending so much ink, I wish I’d been able to share the magic bullet that will let you buy an affordable home without a lot of sweat and anguish. The truth is that unless you have plenty of cash and a very strong income, there’s no easy way to become a homeowner in Santa Cruz county.
I should mention that some homebuyers qualify for VA (Veterans Administration) loans, which have a $0 down payment requirement with no mortgage insurance – and there’s no fixed loan limit for a VA loans (you just have to qualify for the payment). As it stands, the VA loan is the only zero-down loan option most buyers might have access to. Once you’ve solved the down payment part of the problem, the next problem would-be buyers have is qualifying for a big enough loan to purchase a home that will work for them. One thing that can help with this is having a good credit score. People with good credit will enjoy mortgage interest rates that are 0.5-1.0% lower than people with bad credit…which means a buyer with good credit can qualify for a larger loan with the same monthly
Many are moving to Sacramento, or out of state to Oregon, in search of more affordable housing. Others are looking closer to home, like Prunedale, Seaside/ Marina, and Salinas. I know that leaving Santa Cruz is rarely an easy decision to make; I’ve been watching people struggle with the idea of leaving town since the early 1990’s for this very reason. But if you intend to raise a family, I believe home ownership should absolutely be a part of the plan. There are many reasons why home ownership is so important. In next month’s article, I will discuss what makes home ownership so beneficial, for reasons that have little or nothing to do with finances. I think you’ll be surprised!
Before I get to the down payment, I want to address the closing costs. These are things like the appraisal fee, loan origination fee, underwriting fee, pre-paid interest, loan discount points, and pre-paid property tax and insurance. The good news here is that most sellers will be happy to pay some or all of these costs for you – with a sufficiently high purchase price. By having the seller pay these, you are in effect rolling the closing costs into the loan amount. It was much more common 10 years ago, but still today, about 20% of Santa Cruz buyers ask the seller to pay some or all of their closing costs.
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Now, about that pesky down payment.
First time buyers get their down payments from four main sources: savings, inheritance, gift money, and taking a loan from the contributions they’ve made to their retirement plan. • SAVINGS A common lament among would-
Valerie Mishkin Realtor® 831.238.0504 | 831.426.4100 Cal Dre# 02092111 VMishkin@BaileyProperties.com ValerieMishkin.MyHomeHQ.biz
Topped Ranked
•
Total Students
SCCOE
SCHOOLS
Enrolled
Independent
SCHOOLS Santa Cruz among highest concentration of top ranking schools
36,919 82 Public
21
Alternative
34 Independent
Make Your Santa Cruz Realty Dream
a Reality 22 JANUARY 2021 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz
This explains the exodus out of the county.
LOCAL ARTIST Logan Ryan FOURTH GRADE | SAN LORENZO VALLEY ELEMENTARY Logan Ryan is a fourth grade student at San Lorenzo Valley Elementary. Besides drawing he loves playing with his two hamsters, Peanut and Goober,
playing the piano, baking sweets and playing video games. Logan has always enjoyed drawing and prefers drawing in pencil.
GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2021
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INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE SCHOOLS Gateway School
255 Swift Street Santa Cruz, California 95060 (831) 423-0341 gatewaysc.org admissions@gatewaysc.org Grades K-8 The Learning Continues – 2020 marked an important milestone in Gateway’s history – 50 years of providing families with an exceptional educational experience. Students and alumni proudly embody the school’s values and inspire future generations as Gateway embarks on its next 50 years. Gateway School is a co-ed day school in Santa Cruz, CA for students in grades Kindergarten through 8th. We are a community dedicated to nurturing academic excellence and intellectual curiosity, high character and personal compassion, and individual agency and engagement. We invite all families interested in Gateway School to visit, ask questions, and get to know our community! For more information and to schedule a tour, please email our Admissions Manager or visit our website at gatewaysc.org. Kirby School
Grades 6 through 12 425 Encinal St, Santa Cruz 831.423.0658 kirby.org Kirby School empowers students to shape their futures with confidence. Our independent, non-sectarian middle and high school has been preparing students for college for 25 years. In classes averaging 12 students, teachers are responsive to each learner’s strengths and interests. Our rigorous academic and arts curriculum, intensive study paths, and inspiring faculty challenge each student based on their interests and readiness, rather than grade level. Kirby graduates go on to attend excellent four-year colleges and universities. Monarch Community School
840 N. Branciforte Ave. Santa Cruz 95062 831-429-3898 sccsbssc.ss8.sharpschool.com/schools/monarch We believe that learning happens best when we work together (students, teachers, and parents), to develop learning environments spanning home, school, and the greater community. We are committed to providing developmentally appropriate learning experiences where students ‘construct’ their own knowledge connected to their lives and building upon prior experiences. We believe that students learn best when they are involved and engaged in purposeful learning where they have:
Ownership and responsibility, A balance of choice and direction, experience and practice, Knowledgeable guides (teachers, parents, mentor students) We nurture a culture of respect, each individual working toward their academic and social personal best. Pacific Elementary School
Located in Davenport. A public school serving ~150 students. Families throughout the county choose us for our: High-quality Preschool, Traditional K-6 Classrooms, Full-time K-6 Home Study Program with optional online classes, Hybrid K-6 Independent Study Program with some classroom days and some home study days each week. Students participate in our award-winning garden and lunch programs in which students grow, cook, study, and eat healthy food. We emphasize experiential learning, including FOSS science, field trips, media literacy, filmmaking, and drama. We offer a gifted and talented education (GATE) program and accelerated math. To express interest, visit: pacificesd.org/new-family-enrollment.html Mount Madonna School, Pre/K-12
491 Summit Road, Mount Madonna 408.847.2717 MountMadonnaSchool.org Mount Madonna School: bridging tradition and innovation, where individuals are honored and the community is celebrated. Imagine ONE school, where your preschooler can move through to kindergarten and elementary, be part of a middle school community, and graduate from high school! Accepting mid-year transfers in January, and offering inperson, on-campus, and remote learning options. Featuring a play-based hybrid Pre/K program on a 375-acre forested campus, environmental education, performing and visual arts, and excellent academics. We strive to prepare wellrounded human beings who succeed in college, value collaboration, form meaningful relationships, and engage with their communities, nation, and the world. Transportation available, with convenient bus stops throughout Santa Cruz County. Orchard School K-6
2288 Trout Gulch Road, Aptos 831.688.1074 orchardschoolaptos.org Orchard School is a small, independent school set on a 14-acre campus with climbing trees, meadows, an organic garden, farm animals, and no concrete. We create magic together in this amazing setting with a down-to-earth educational philosophy that nourishes the developing child while honoring and celebrating childhood. Small classes in core academics taught by specialized teachers provide
24 JANUARY 2021 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz
GUiSC’s Annual Guide to Independent Schools offers snapshots of Independent Schools in our community. Reading all of the entries will provide information for assessing a school and may very well illuminate new or additional considerations when choosing a learning environment. Many factors can enter into the evaluation and selection of a school for your child: academics, so-called non-academics, teaching philosophy, social environment, level of parental involvement, funding, values, unique programs, teacher/student ratio, physical education program. The importance of each varies from family to family and with each child and may involve prioritization. Is a fine arts program offered? Are computers readily available? Are children encouraged to set goals? Will the school provide for my child’s interests as well as offer new interest? The Annual Guide to Independent Schools provides contact phone numbers for you to request additional information, ask questions and arrange for a meeting or tour. Be sure to ask about open houses–and check our calendar each month in print and online–they are an excellent opportunity to view the entire facility, meet staff members and chat with parents of children already attending the school. Whether you are enrolling your child in a Santa Cruz community school for the first time or seeking a new setting for a child whose needs or interests have changed, the process of finding the right school for your child is challenging and timeconsuming and can also be a fascinating and exciting learning experience.
hands-on, individualized instruction. Other weekly classes include drama, circus, art, music, Spanish, leadership training, and gardening. All students participate in theater productions, help grow food for our hot lunch program, and care for our animals. Such opportunities provide life-shaping experiences that keep children excited and engaged about learning. Salesian Elementary and Junior High School TK-8
605 Enos Lane, Corralitos 831-728-5518 info@salesianschool.org salesianschool.org For more than 40 years, Salesian Elementary and Junior High has been Empowering the youth with Knowledge, Faith and Love! Located five miles from Highway 1, our beautiful hillside campus has the spirit of a home where every child feels loved. Rooted in the Catholic faith, we are a school that celebrates childhood, fosters a passion for learning, and develops moral depth through acts of service. Credentialed teachers and staff educate the whole child with a balanced curriculum that includes art, music, Spanish, and physical education. Our 50-acre campus also provides endless opportunities for students to learn from the natural environment. Santa Catalina School
1500 Mark Thomas Drive Monterey 831.655.9300 santacatalina.org Set against the scenic California coast in Monterey, Santa Catalina School is where you can discover the true you. Our boarding and day school is where inspired, powerful, active learning happens—in the classroom, on the field or the stage, and in the dorms. Catalina girls take ownership of their academics—including a marine ecology program that takes advantage of Monterey Bay—and they pursue their passions. True sisterhood creates a community that is fueled by curiosity, kindness, and confidence. Spring Hill School
250 California Street, Santa Cruz 831.427.2641 springhillschool.org/ We are a community of educators and families who inspire curiosity and a love of learning by creating a supportive and welcoming school experience. Our approach develops inner confidence and encourages a willingness to risk imperfection. With our small class sizes, each teacher comes to know each student, and we can prioritize effective communication with families. Students
leave Spring Hill with a strong preparation for middle school both academically and on a social emotional level. With a focus on developing the tools to take on the world, a Spring Hill experience is designed to last a lifetime. Tara Redwood School
Preschool-6th Grade 5810 Prescott Road, CA. Soquel Tel. 831.462.9632 tararedwoodschool.org Tara Redwood School offers children a strong academic foundation, rich in the sciences, emotional intelligence, and the arts. Our global curriculum is a blend of Montessori and Creating Compassionate Cultures (CCC), a framework known as the 7 Steps to Knowledge, Strength, and Compassion developed at the school for more than 30 years. The CCC pedagogy provides a unique approach that nurtures the children’s innate positive qualities through critical thinking and contemplative practices, empowering them to have a positive impact on the world through their thoughts and actions. Our integrated approach to learning has a strong focus on environmental studies and exploration of the natural world. Our classrooms extend into the outdoors and our playground is 108 acres of redwood forest and creeks in Soquel.
CHARTER SCHOOLS Pacific Coast Charter School
294 Green Valley Road, Watsonville 831.786.2180 pccs.pvusd.net Pacific Coast Charter School is a K-12 homeschool/independent studies charter within for the Pajaro valley United school District. We offer a unique blend of home, community, and campus-based learning that gives students the opportunity to realize their potential through personalized educational plans which complement their diverse learning styles. Students work 20 hours a week on school work and attend optional on-site general and college prep classes or enrichment workshops 2- 3 times per week. We provide We provide credentialed teachers, free tutoring and a wide variety of standards-based curriculum to assist your child to reach their fullest academic potential. SLVUSD Charter School
325 Marion Ave, Ben Lomond 831-335-0932 charter.slvusd.org/ Founded in 1993, we continue to maintain
student-centered learning built on strong connections between teachers, students, and parents. Dynamic, diverse learning environments and parent involvement are essential to our school. We integrate Life Skills into students learning, using collaboration and creativity to foster personalized interests. We have many program options. Based on the scholaradventurer, Nature Academy (6-8) offers a 5 day-a-week program to challenge students. We have six classroom/ homeschool programs supporting individualized pacing and passions: Coast Redwood High School (9-12), Quail Hollow Integrated Arts (6-8), Coast Redwood MS (6-8), Quail Hollow (K-5), Fall Creek (K-5), Mountain Independent Study (K-6).
ENRICHMENT
Coming in
FEBRUARY Preschools & Childcare Guide Outdoor Exercise Each themed box comes with: Hardback Picture Book + Kid-friendly Recipe Card Baking Tool + Project
Adventure Sports Unlimited
303 Potrero St., #15, Santa Cruz 831.458.3648 asudoit.com Adventure Sports Unlimited (ASU) is the premier school for aquatics instruction in Santa Cruz. We teach infants through adults the joy of water through our swim, SCUBA and our many ocean adventure programs. We want to make your entry into the water world truly enjoyable. Come play with us! The Bookakery
BookakeryBoxes.com Check out our Bookakery Boxes, monthly subscription boxes filled with picture books, recipes, baking tools, and activities, curated to foster a love of reading and baking in kids, and encourages parent-child activities. Bookakery Boxes facilitate activity-based learning of reading, following instructions, counting, and more. Bookakery Boxes are perfect for preschoolers and early elementary-age children.
Come see what we’re mixing up!
www.BookakeryBoxes.com Available as 1, 3, 6 and 12 month packages Coupon good for any length subscrip�on. Renews at standard rate. Expires 12/31/2021
is your home hive humming? join our new
Bee Smart Pods
International Student Services Santa Cruz
831-419-9633 sandispan@aol.com Host Families being sought now for 2021-'22 high school term and semester. Friendship between families here and overseas is an amazing experience providing enriching connections for a lifetime. Getting to know about our world through their eyes and sharing cultures creates an understanding in love and acceptance. It is a lot of fun! Make a friend you can visit. Italian, German & French students for the 2021-'22 school term are coming to become part of an American Host Family. All students will be COVIDtested. Student interests: tennis, soccer, art, Scouts, cooking! and more! . Call now for more information
Sign up for one or more of our three pods:
• Banana Slug Pod : Tuesday * • Honey Bee Pod : Thursday * • Monarch Pod : Friday * K through 3rd grade • 12–3pm Starts Tuesday, September 8th, 2020 8 weeks = $360 / 4 weeks = $200 10% sibling discount available.
junebugs gym gymnastics junebugsgym
*To insure safety, pod days are not interchangeable.
C A L L U S O R C H E C K O U R W E B S I T E F O R D E TA I L S :
831-464-BUGS(2847) •www.junebugsgym.com 391O PORTOLA DRIVE SUITE 2 & 3 • SANTA CRUZ, CA 95O62
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COLORING PAGE
26 JANUARY 2021 | Growing Up in Santa Cruz
Healthy hearts love longer. At Dignity Health – Dominican Hospital, we understand that your heart doesn’t just beat for you. It’s our mission to help you and your family access comprehensive and safe care here in Santa Cruz—and receive it from doctors who excel at cardiology and humankindness. Because your heart should be full of love, not worry. Don’t delay the important care you need. Learn more and find a cardiologist near you at DignityHealth.org/DominicanHearts.
GrowingUpSC.com | JANUARY 2021
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Pacific Elementary School Small public school, quality programs, close diverse community, preschool through 6th grade.
Choose p reschool, tr aditional K-6 classro oms, full-time home ependent study , or a hy brid i nd study p rogr a m with some classroom days and some home school days each week.
A ward-win ning scho ol lunch program featuring organic and help cook local food. Students from scratch daily. phasis: E xperiential learning em year-round garden program, hands-on science, drama, field trips, high-tech innovation lab, annual student film festival.
Gifted an d Ta lented Ed ucation (GATE) Progr am, including enrichment classes and accelerated math. Graduating place above students often grade-level in math. Just 10 from Cruz, miles Santa attracti ng studen ts from around the cou nty . After school programs available. Pacific Elementary School 50 Ocean Street, Davenport (831) 425-7002 www.pacificesd.org
Enquire now: www.pacificesd.org/new-family-enrollment.html