SERRANO Living the Good Life in El Dorado Hills
SUMMER 2020
Class of 2020 SIX FEET APART
Footloose in the Foothills EXPLORING DESOLATION WILDERNESS
Serrano’s Custom Home Builders MEET THE VISIONARIES
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Brighter Futures
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A great education is just the start. It isn’t enough though. Providence Christian School provides a learning environment designed to protect your student from the ‘extra’ stuff that kids shouldn’t have to worry about. We are dedicated to strong academics and good hearts. Enrollment now open for the upcoming school year - schedule your tour today. Biblical worldview curriculum blended with today’s technology. Located right off of Hwy 50 – only 10 mins from EDH. Lowest private school rates in the area + extra discounts from our many partner churches.
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FINE CUSTOM HOMES FOR OVER 40 YEARS
SERRANO Living the Good Life in El Dorado Hills serranoeldorado.com sacmag.com
“BEST HOME BUILDER” 2 Years Running — Sacramento Magazine 2018–2019
Serrano—Living the Good Life in El Dorado Hills magazine is a publication of the Serrano community in El Dorado Hills. It is written and produced three times a year for Serrano Associates by Sacramento Media LLC . The magazine is distributed under the authority of Parker Development Company to all Serrano residents, property owners and country club members. Additionally, copies are distributed to businesses and outlets throughout El Dorado Hills and neighboring communities from Folsom to Placerville. Copies are available at the Serrano Visitors Center, at Serrano builders’ model home complexes and at select local businesses. Serrano is being developed by Parker Development Company, a longtime Sacramento-area creator of high-quality and award-winning master-planned communities. CONTACT:
916.989.4028 GRENZHOMES.COM
marketing@serranoeldorado.com or call (916) 939 -3333
EDITED AND PRODUCED BY SACR AMENTO MEDIA LLC PUBLISHER Dennis Rainey EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Krista Minard PROJECT EDITOR Kristin Conner PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Stephen Rice PROJECT DESIGNER Debbie Hurst SENIOR ADVERTISING DESIGNER John Facundo Jr. NATIONAL ACCOUNTS MANAGER Lisa Bonk ADVERTISING MANAGERS Duff y Kelly duff y@sacmag.com Victor Obenauf victor@sacmag.com Carla Shults carla@sacmag.com
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND DIGITAL MEDIA Dan Poggetti MARKETING AND DIGITAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Nicole Kern EDITORIAL & SALES OFFICES: 231 Lathrop Drive, Suite A, Sacramento, CA 95815; (916) 426-1720 PUBLISHED BY SACR AMENTO MEDIA LLC Stefan Wanczyk, CEO John Balardo, President P R I N T ED BY C R EEL P R I N TI N G
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SERRANO Living the Good Life in El Dorado Hills
SERRANO WELCOME TO
Serrano is being developed by Parker Development Company, creator of high - qualit y, award -winning master- planned communities since 1 9 5 6 , including G reenhaven and Riverlake in the Pocket area of S acramento, and The Park way in Folsom .
Living the Good Life in El Dorado Hills
editor’s note: Hello Serrano Magazine Community, We are very excited to bring you the summer 2020 issue! It has been a wild ride so far this year, and we hope you and your families are safe and well during these unprecedented times. This issue is dedicated to our class of 2020 and to those who serve children in education. As one who works in education, I have witnessed firsthand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on students, teachers, staff and parents. Almost overnight, teachers and students had to shelter in place and pivot from teaching and learning in an engaging classroom environment to working together to master distance learning. These past few months have turned lives upside down, as well as produced some wonderful memories and connections across many families and communities.
Serrano’s amenities include miles of hiking and biking trails and more than 1 ,0 0 0 acres of open space. N umerous neighborhood parks are loc ated within the gated villages . El Dorado Count y ’s K–12 schools of fer an exceptional level of educ ation , with test scores that have ranked among the highest in C alifornia . The private , member- owned Serrano Countr y Club of fers elegant and c asual dining as well as tennis , swimming and exercise facilities . Serrano’s 1 8 - hole championship golf course was designed by Rober t Trent J ones , J r. For informa tion about Serrano Countr y Club, call (91 6) 933 -50 05 or visit online: serranocountr yclub.org .
Now, to our amazing class of 2020: Your resiliency through these tough times is inspiring. You could have chosen to give up when days felt like weeks, and weeks felt like months, but you didn’t. You discovered ways to make new memories, whether it was finding alternate ways to communicate with your family and friends or by getting outside and exploring the beautiful area we live in. You adapted, you survived and we’re all stronger knowing we’ll get through this together. We wish you all the successes you deserve as you enter into the next chapter of your lives. For the rest of our El Dorado County students, have a wonderful summer and we’ll see you next school year! Kristin Conner Editor
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Serrano and the Serrano logo are state-registered trademarks
SERRANO SERRANO SUMMER 2020
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Wichert Homes is exclusively a Serrano builder and has built more than a hundred homes in the neighborhood Wichert Homes Construction is a family owned business currently being operated by the owner Craig Wichert and by his daughter and project Manager, Payton Wichert. • Craig personally supervises the construction of all his houses and has a great working relationship with his subcontractors and how they are able to shave months o the building process.
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contents SERRANO
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Living the Good Life in El Dorado Hills SUMMER 2020
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Community Calendar SUMMER 2020
16 On the Porch FAMILY PORTRAITS
20 Serrano’s Custom Home Builders MEET THE VISIONARIES
26 Oak Ridge High School Cheerleading HIGH-FLYING CHAMPIONS
32 Footloose in the Foothills A GUIDED HIKE THROUGH DESOLATION WILDERNESS
38 El Dorado’s New High School Wellness Centers
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A PLACE FOR TEENS TO TALK, FEEL SAFE AND GET HELP
44 Local Musician Inspired by Sierra Foothills MEET PATRICK WALSH
46 Incredible Resiliency APPLAUDING THE REGION’S TEACHERS AND STUDENTS
50 Dr. Ed Manansala NAVIGATING DIFFICULT TIMES WITH GRATITUDE
On the Cover
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Top, Left to Right: Matthew Bryant, Oak Ridge High School Bianca Ariza, St. Francis High School Fatima Vasquez-Rios, Union Mine High School Bottom, Left to Right: Anna Slojkowski, Ponderosa High School Brenna DeKreek, Vista del Lago High School Russel Gallaway, Jesuit High School SUMMER 2020 SERRANO
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Your health is important Don’t delay your medical care
Now, more than ever, we are committed to making it safe and easy for you to access the care you need. Marshall Medical Center is open for all preventive services such as wellness visits, physicals, mammograms and colonoscopies. If you have a chronic condition, or are experiencing new or worsening symptoms, call your doctor to make an appointment today. In-person and virtual visits are available. Marshall Hospital has resumed surgical services for elective and urgent procedures and the Emergency Room is always open, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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Keeping you safe MANDATORY MASKING A third of people with COVID-19 have no symptoms. That’s why we require everyone to wear a mask to protect our elderly and at risk patients. SCREENING AT ENTRY Everyone entering our buildings is screened for COVID-19, including having a temperature check and symptom history. If you have a fever or symptoms, you will still get care; we’ll have the opportunity to prepare by increasing protections for our patients and staff. PHYSICAL DISTANCING We have arranged our clinics to decrease patient interaction and increase distancing. ENHANCED CLEANING Our clinics use CDC-recommended solutions and techniques to ensure a sterile environment, paired with increased frequency. COMMUNITY MONITORING Our leadership monitors COVID-19 disease occurrence on a daily basis. If a surge in cases is observed, we have plans in place to adapt our process and protocol. TESTING Marshall has access to rapid results for COVID-19 tests, giving us the ability to expedite your care while minimizing exposure to others.
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calendar serrano
community
SUMMER 2020
Sundays through Oct. 27 EL DORADO HILLS (EDH) CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET— EL DORADO HILLS TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD The region’s most popular farmers market returns with more produce and commodities than ever. Sundays 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, visit eldoradofarmersmarket.com.
LIVE ON THE BOULEVARD— EDH TOWN CENTER AMPHITHEATER CONCERT SERIES Please visit edhtowncenter.com for concert status this summer. Concerts are festival-style seating, so bring your blankets and chairs. Set-up begins at 5:30 p.m., and music runs from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
EDH COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT (CSD) FRIDAY NIGHT SUMMER CONCERTS Please visit edhcsd.org for concert status this summer. Concerts start at 7 p.m. at the CSD community park located at 1021 Harvard Way in El Dorado Hills. The summer lineup includes: Aug. 2: Soultones (Jazz, Funk, R & B) Aug. 16: Swift Country (Taylor Swift and other great country hits)
Aug. 29
SATURDAY NIGHT IN THE CSD PARK CONCERT FINALE—EDH CHAMBER AND EDH CSD PARTNERSHIP This annual event will feature Rock Monsterz, and include the best in entertainment, business showcases, children’s activities, delicious food and more. 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. For concert status information, call (916) 933-1335.
Sept. 12
2ND ANNUAL EL DORADO HILLS BREWFEST AND BEER Choose unlimited tasting privileges from 75 craft breweries, cideries, meaderies and wineries on Serrano’s lush, scenic lawns. Food trucks, music, entertainment, games, and a VIP lounge with swag all promise for a great day! Tickets: entertainment only, general admission, and VIP with swag run $15–$50, with early bird pricing and group discounts available. 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Serrano Village Green. Serrano Visitors Center, 4525 Serrano Parkway in El Dorado Hills. Ticketed and ID-entry are required for adults 21+ (children admitted free with ticketed parent/guardian). The event location, date and times are subject to change in compliance with COVID-19 guidelines. Visit eldoradohillsbrewfest.com or call (916) 9331335 for information.
Sept. 12
SAMPLE THE SIERRA FARM-TO-FORK FESTIVAL Lake Tahoe’s most dynamic farm-to-fork festival brings together local chefs and restaurants with neighboring growers and producers to turn out scrumptious samples craftily paired with the appropriate wine or brew. The festival also features a local artist marketplace where visitors can find unique gifts from the Sierra and the Sierra Chef Challenge, a competition between the region’s most notorious chefs. Noon to 5 p.m. at Bijou Community Park located at 1201 Al Tahoe Blvd in South Lake Tahoe. To purchase tickets, visit samplethesierra.com.
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Sept. 19
CHILI COOK OFF & CLASSIC CAR SHOW— 20TH ANNUAL FUNDRAISER Thirty chili cooks compete to earn your vote. Explore classic cars while enjoying live music, prize drawings, artwork by the Something MORE Artists, and top it off with hot dogs, drinks and face painting. The free car show begins at 10 a.m. with chili tasting ready at noon. Chili tasting: $10/adult; $5/children. El Dorado County Fairgrounds. For chili competition, or car show entry forms, visit morerehab.org, call (530) 622-4848 or email viersk@morerehab.org
Sept. 26
3STRANDS GLOBAL’S 10TH ANNUAL BREAK FREE RUN: THE RACE TO END HUMAN TRAFFICKING This now worldwide event began right here in El Dorado Hills, and we hope our community can make it the biggest event to date! Thank you for your generous support these 10 years. The Break Free Run is a 5K/10K run/walk that mobilizes communities to stand up against human trafficking and supports 3Strands Global Foundation’s prevention education and reintegration programs. Enjoy a variety of local vendors and a beer garden following the run. This family friendly event, complete with a Kids Fun Run and a Kids Zone starts at 8 a.m. at Lakeside Church in Folsom. Register at 3sgf.org/folsom or by texting BFR18 to 41411 for a link. For details, call (916) 3652606 or email at info@3sgf.org. Depending on the COVID-19 status, this may be a virtual race event. Check the website for updates
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WINERY CONCERTS Gather up your friends and family and head to Cielo Estate Winery for a fun night of music and good food. All concerts start at 6 p.m. Due to COVID-19, please check cieloestate.com for the most upto-date information on scheduled performances.
July 17
MerryGold Band
Food provided by Chando’s Tacos
Aug. 7
Jessica Malone Band
Food provided by Holy Grail BBQ
Aug. 21
Jessica Malone
Cash Prophets
Food provided by Steve’s Pizza
Sept. 4
Legal Addiction
Food provided by World Fare Catering
Sept. 18
The Random Strangers
Food provided by Pacific Coast Pasta Company
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PAT SEIDE GROUP SPECIALIZING IN LUXURY ESTATE PROPERTIES
916.712.1617 or 916.941.3006 Pat-Seide.com | patricia.seide@cbnorcal.com CalBRE #00892540
#1 COLDWELL BANKER AGENT IN EL DORADO COUNTY SINCE 1998 Offered at $1,899,000 EL DORADO HILLS
5242 DA VINCI DRIVE, EL DORADO HILLS
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xperience casual living at its finest in this spectacular NEW Wichert Construction home in Serrano. This MODERN FARMHOUSE features 4 beds, home office, formal dining and recreation room with open concept design. Spacious kitchen features chef grade appliances, butler’s pantry and large nook. Hardwood floors highlight the great room that allows seamless indoor-outdoor living. A lavish main level master has a fireplace, spa-like bath, rear yard access and large walk-in closet! An upstairs loft and two guest suites complete this home.
Offered at $2,199,000 El Dorado Hills
5251 DA VINCI DRIVE, EL DORADO HILLS
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very luxurious element is captured in this stunning custom estate by Wichert Homes in Serrano. A spacious 4 bed, 4 ½ bath home on a greenbelt, features 1st floor primary living with professional-grade kitchen, magnificent great room, guest suite, office and a breath taking master suite and spa quality master bath. Second level boasts a massive bonus room and two bedroom suites with golf course views, perfect for entertaining and guest retreats. Premium wood floors, beamed ceilings and high quality windows highlight this open floor plan.
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on the porch
in el dorado hills PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARM PHOTOGRAPHY
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This Easter, families celebrated the holiday very differently than in previous years. There were no big Easter gatherings, and traditional celebrations were encouraged in one’s own home. Charlene Lane of Charm Photography in El Dorado Hills had hopes of bringing a splash of excitement and memories to families in El Dorado Hills, Folsom and Cameron Park. Using her long lens to ensure social distancing protocols were followed, she spent her day traveling to more than 25 homes, where she photographed families on their porches or in front of their homes. El Dorado Hills resident and a respiratory therapist, Jennifer Anderson, was one of those happy moms who had her portrait taken with her family before leaving for New York to help care for COVID-19 patients. We thank Jennifer for her incredible sacrifice in doing this. The Easter Porch Portraits mini sessions were so well received that Lane Lane offered the sessions for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduation celebrations and even newborn baby events. She plans to continue porch portraits as a part of her ongoing photography services to the community. To learn more about Charm Photography’s Porch Portraits, visit charmphotography.com.
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Do what you can to shop local first. Every dollar you spend locally will help open doors of local and regional businesses and support jobs in our communities.
Shop safely. Follow our local health guidelines and respect others around you.
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Share on social media how you are safely open for business using the hashtag #OpenForBusiness, tag Sacramento Magazine and we’ll reshare your posts. For Facebook use @sacramentomagazine, for Instagram use @sacmag and for Twitter use @SacMag
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Serrano’s
CUSTOM HOME B
A place like Serrano doesn’t just happen. It’s the result of masterful planning, a clear vision and a commitment to a higher standard in everything from the landscapes to the rooftops. The most visible aspect is, of course, the homes themselves. Every custom home is like an original work of art, and the builders of these masterpieces are as unique as the homes themselves. If there’s a common thread among them, it’s that building is in their blood, and the passion they bring to their work is a signature element of what makes Serrano special. You know their work already. Now here are their stories. by BILL ROMANELLI photography provided by SERRANO BUILDERS
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E BUILDERS
MEET THE V ISIONAR IES
Wichert Homes
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CRAIG WICHERT—WICHERT HOMES
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Craig Wichert
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raig Wichert never thought about a career in anything other than homebuilding. Both his father and grandfather were builders, and Wichert spent most of his early years on the job site learning the trade. He ultimately went on to launch Wichert Homes in 1989. Now, 31 years later, his work can be found throughout Serrano, and he’s recognized as an authority on custom homebuilding throughout the Sacramento area. “I’ve always felt the key to client satisfaction was partnering every step of the way, before, during and after the build,” Wichert says. “Building your dream home from the ground up can be a very stressful process, but it doesn’t have to be. As a turn-key builder, we walk clients through picking the best lot to their backyard and pool. Our No. 1 goal is to make sure our clients are always happy and content throughout the process.” A Serrano resident himself, Wichert bears the unique distinction of being one of the first homeowners inside Serrano’s gates, as well as the proud builder of more than 100 custom Serrano homes. No two homes are alike, and where they do share some common features, those are a reflection of his commitment to design endurance and long-term integrity. “We try to build our homes completely bulletproof,” Wichert says. “That means everything from the roof to the windows, and ensuring the drainage systems can stand up to long-term weather while, at the same time, each is designed with great curb appeal. From initial design to the finished product, a home is the reflection of each client’s taste and style, and built upon a foundation of planning, craftsmanship and pride.” wicherthomes.com
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TIM LANCASTER AND MIKE ROTH— EPIC DESIGN GROUP, INC.
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pic Design LLC was founded in 2015 when Tim Lancaster and Mike Roth—who together have more than 45 years of home building and real estate development experience as general contractors—decided to launch a firm that would build distinct architectural wonders that help people bring their dream homes into reality. “The creation of a custom home should be a positive experience; it’s where you and your family are going to enjoy many years of your lives,” Lancaster says. “Our goal is to deliver an outstanding experience throughout the entire design and construction process.” The company has so far built nine homes in the Serrano community, with six more slated to start this summer. The firm’s partners, who are both second-generation builders, pride themselves on offering in-house interior design and construction crews. That capability enables them to merge creative design solutions, engineering, masterful construction and the expertise to manage a project from start to finish. At the same time, every project is developed in close coordination with the Serrano Design Review Committee to ensure it complements Serrano’s aesthetics—something Lancaster and Roth have a vested interest in preserving. Both have lived in Serrano for more than 16 years. “We both love the rolling hills, great views, excellent schools and family-focused community that make Serrano a great place to call home,” Lancaster says. “Our goal with every home we build is to enhance the value of this community for everyone, and to deliver a dream home that, on day one, has an appraised value that exceeds the project cost.” epicdesignllc.com
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RAY AND SHERINE LEE— LEE LUXURY HOMES
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Sherine and Ray Lee
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ay and Sherine Lee founded Lee Luxury Homes in 1991, after both had enjoyed successful careers in and around the construction industry. Ray is a secondgeneration builder who built homes “on the side” while he was working for C.C. Myers as a bridge builder. Sherine was a college director where, among her many accomplishments, she was responsible for building a Sacramento college campus from the ground up. Together, they also have developed an impressive reputation for building exceptional custom estates. “We approach every new home as a husband and wife team, with Ray focusing on project specifications and craftsmanship and me employing my management, administration and interior design background,” Sherine says. Both natives of Northern California, Ray and Sherine moved to Serrano from Rocklin in 2001, after discovering it was the perfect place to raise a family while offering a great lifestyle for adults. Together they’ve built more than 70 homes throughout the Serrano community and, having built and remodeled several luxury homes of their own, they understand the intricacies of home construction from the standpoint of both the homeowner and their contractor. Ultimately, of course, their goal is to ensure every client’s dream home is created with only the highest standards in design, material and craftsmanship. Ask them about the hallmark of their homes, and they will always answer with “quality, quality, quality.” But the true measure of their success isn’t just a job well done, it’s the relationships they form with their clients. “We treasure the long-lasting friendships we have developed with our clients over the years,” Sherine says. “Friendship is a gift, and for us that’s the greatest compliment we can ever receive for our hard work.” leeluxuryhomes.com
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KENT SCIUTTO—TURN-KEY CONSTRUCTION GROUP
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ent Sciutto is the president and founder of Turn-Key Construction Group, a company he launched in 2003. As a general contractor and master craftsman who was born into construction, he made a name for himself in the Bay Area before falling in love with El Dorado Hills, and subsequently moving to Serrano in 2002. “I have a deep passion for custom homes and custom construction, and I thank God for the blessing I’ve been given to share my talents and passion this way,” Sciutto says. “I’ve never built the same home twice; every home is personalized to the owner, and it’s very satisfying when they tell me their new home is exactly what they wanted.” Sciutto and his team have been building homes for 35 years, including 12 custom homes in Serrano, with five more in the planning stages, and have completed remodels in all of Serrano’s villages. They work with clients through every step in the process, from lot selection to interior design, with a focus on best practices in construction design and innovation. “From the beginning, I like to start with the exact budget clients want to spend so we can design a project that fulfi lls their dreams and meets their expectations,” Sciutto says. To ensure his projects add value to the quality of life, Sciutto serves as an alternative on the Design Review Committee. In his spare time, he enjoys hunting, cooking, entertaining and exploring the Serrano outdoors with his family. turnkeyconstructiongroup.com
Kent Sciutto
SUMMER 2020
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s at the Divisio n 1 cha mpion ion al in 201 9 SJS Holiday Invitat
l o o h c S h g i H Oak Ridge
g n i d a e l r Chee G HI
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LYING CHAMPION F H S by KK ROBERTS EN ROEDER photography by KRIST
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Training begins with summer camps in June, ramping up to six days a week, two and a half hours a day. Perseverance and commitment are absolute musts. Workouts are intense and physically draining; they include mastering stunts, tumbling skills and complicated choreography. Competitive cheerleading is a sport of champions in many ways, and the Oak Ridge High School (ORHS) cheerleaders proved themselves more than worthy in the 2020 National Championships held in Orlando, Florida this past February. After placing in the top three in their division three times in the six years they have been competing at the national level, the ORHS cheer team won first place in the UCA Super Varsity Division I. Says junior Kailey Timms, “Competing is the best feeling ever because it’s all of the hard work you put into the season wrapped up in less than three minutes. There is nothing like the rush of putting it all out there on the mat. The championship is like the work of the past six seasons all paying off for one amazing moment that makes it all worth it.” According to Head Coach James Blunk, who has managed the team since 2015, “We have the highest scoring difficulty in our team’s routine. Skill levels evolve and change every year, and we push the envelope and practice skills no one else has.” Bearing this in mind, the ORHS cheer squad’s accomplishment is even more impressive.
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Cheerleading came to America from Cuff is a British former footballer and England in the late 1800s, consisting cheerleader who believes that, of the two, initially of Princeton University men cheer is the tougher sport. In writing shouting on the sidelines of football about cheerleading finally getting provigames. Inevitably, the sport’s evolution has sional recognition by the International been one of gradual and definitive change. Olympic Committee, Brinkhurst-Cuff From the originally male-dominated roots emphasizes that it’s exceptionally difficult to the inclusion 40 years later of women, to “master the trifecta that cheerleading is the meteoric rise of competitive cheer essentially made up of [sic]: gymnastics, acrobatics and dance. Stunting—throwing has created a sport that showcases team people high into the air, catching spirit, athleticism, dedication and, above them, and holding them above your all, trust in your fellow teammates. Senior head, safely—is no Tessa Roeder elaborates mean feat.” on that, saying, “My fa“The experience of In this vein, vorite part of this team competing at nationals is Brinkhurst-Cuff is definitely the family unmatched. It gives you notes, “In 2013, it atmosphere. We are all the best feeling walking so close and that is what was named the most off that floor knowing makes our team special!” dangerous sport in everything you worked Recognized as an America for women. for paid off. Actually official sport in 1999, According to the report winning was the cherry competitive cheer it accounted for 66% on top of the cake and is overseen by the of catastrophic sports Universal Cheerleadinjuries for girls, and still doesn’t seem real.” ers Association (UCA), 37% of the cheerleaders —Lucy Bunce, Oak Ridge founded in 1974 by Jeff they studied had sympHigh School junior Webb. Webb, chairman toms of concussion that of the International hadn’t been reported.” Cheer Union, is also credited with changAs with any sport, injuries can occur, ing cheer from a school-based endeavor but safety is a crucial and integral part of to a competitive sport. Sideline cheer the training. According to USA Cheer, routines developed into challenging feats the national governing body for the sport of tumbling, tossing, stunting and even of cheer, “Safety is paramount to the “flying.” Rule changes over the last decade protection of athletes and a vital part of have generated more daring routines. “We the mission of USA Cheer.” Coach safety have been able to add some things that certifications are mandatory for entry into were allowed in colleges,” says Blunk. competitions, and regulations are strictly The rigorous training and practice reenforced. quired to make the grade as a cheerleader Because of the COVID-19 outbreak, cannot be overstated. Charlie Brinkhurstsafety instruction has been modified to be
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available online. According to usacheer. org, “With the recent COVID-19 health crisis and its effect on gatherings and travel, cheer coaches and officials have missed opportunities for rules and safety training at state and national conferences . . . USA Cheer will be offering access to comprehensive rules training through its education platform.” Training has also been suspended due to COVID-19. Blunk says, “Everything has been put on hold. We’re all trying to adjust to the new guidelines.” Unfortunately, the medical crisis also impacted the squad’s chance to celebrate
their victory. “They couldn’t receive all the usual accolades, and they didn’t get a chance to celebrate together at a banquet with an awards ceremony,” Blunk notes. “We will have to special deliver the championship rings.” The UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship is the most prestigious high school championship in the country, nationally televised on ESPN every year. The first UCA Championship was held in 1980 with only 20 teams competing. Held this year in Orlando, Florida, the UCA competition hosted 950 teams. According to tv.varsity.com,
“That’s 19,848 spirited athletes and 3,173 passionate coaches dreaming of white satin jackets!” In total, cheer squads from nine countries and 34 states competed this year. To clarify, the eponymous white jackets were introduced in the early 1980s to accompany gold medals, and they have been a coveted representation of cheerleading excellence ever since. The ORHS squad is usually comprised of between 20 to 30 cheerleaders, and this year’s team had 28 members, with all high school grades from freshman to seniors represented. “[The COVID-19 crisis] is really hard for the seniors who deserved to
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celebrate with their team before they head to college,” says Blunk. Nonetheless, the victory was a sweet reward. “Winning was absolutely amazing. I’ve been cheering most of my life, so for all of the years of hard work to pay off being surrounded by my teammates was a once-in-a-lifetime privilege I will never forget,” says Roeder.
“Cheer is everything to me. It’s fun, challenging, exciting, and has shaped me into who I am. I love the sport and the people who are a part of it. I’ve done it my whole life, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.”
—Ashlyn Keledjian, Oak Ridge High School senior Blunk, a former Sacramento State cheerleader and the college’s current cheer coach, has been an instructor with UCA for 10 years. His passion for both cheerleading and his team is clear. “Training
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is physically and mentally challenging. There is not one person on the team who doesn’t want to be there,” he says. Eighty cheerleaders have already registered for summer camps, but ironically, as a team, they have had to adjust to being apart. Says freshman Miah Baro, “My favorite part about being on Oak Ridge’s team was just getting to work with all my teammates and being able to have gotten such close relationships with many of them.” Th is sentiment is echoed by sophomore Mia Ricci, who says, “My favorite part was we were all there to do the same thing, and we had all the same goals.” Blunk says, “Because we won the championship, ESPN televised not just part, but our entire performance.” The visibility and popularity of com-
petitive cheerleading is growing by leaps and bounds, in more ways than one. For these cheerleaders, the common overriding passion is how much cheer means to them personally. “Cheer means everything to me. I feel at home on that mat and in the tumbling gym,” says Timms. “Cheer has gotten me through loss and pain and given me happiness and hope. Cheer is the best escape.”
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CATTLEMENS STEAKHOUSE & SALOON Serving exclusively Harris Ranch “Natural Beef”, Cattlemens ages and hand-cuts all beef selections on site. Signature steaks include the famous “Sizzling Prime Rib”, “King of Steaks” 32-oz. Porterhouse, New York Strip and Filet Mignon. Other popular items are Baby Back Pork Ribs, Grilled Salmon, Chicken and Pasta. All entrees are served up with all the fixin’s — All-You-Can-Eat tossed salad, hot sourdough bread and ranch-style beans. A popular spot for “More Beef for Your Buck” weeknight dinner specials and kid friendly dining. Seven days a week, Happy Hour is 4-6 pm in the saloon with savory small plates and thirst quenching handcrafted cocktails served nightly. Full banquet and reception facilities are available for both day and evening events. Reservations accepted. Open at 4 p.m. seven days per week. 2000 Taylor Rd., Roseville | 916-782-5587 12409 Folsom Blvd., Rancho Cordova 916-985-3030 Hwy 80 at Currey Rd., Dixon | 707-678-5518 www.cattlemens.com
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FOOTLOOSE IN THE FOOTHILLS
A GUIDED HIKE THROUGH
Desolation Wilderness Just to remind us how good it is to be outside these days, we’re tempted to call this segment of Footloose in the Foothills “Desolation After Isolation.”
A view from Desolation Wilderness, looking toward Wrights Lake
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by JOLAINE COLLINS photography by ROB COLLINS
a
fter staying at home for so long this spring, there’s more incentive than ever to get outdoors this summer. One nearby destination to consider for hiking or backpacking is Desolation Wilderness. Although the name sounds daunting, this 64,000-acre federally protected wilderness area in El Dorado County just west of Lake Tahoe has a number of trailheads that offer relatively easy access to hikers of most abilities. Last summer, my husband and I had the opportunity to accompany Kathryn Reed, author of the hiking guide “The Dirt Around Lake Tahoe: Must-Do Scenic Hikes,” on a day trek to Twin Lakes in Desolation Wilderness—less than an hour from El Dorado Hills. We were taken by the beauty of the destination and impressed by Reed’s knowledge of the region’s trail system. A longtime resident of Tahoe, she’s compiled several firsthand stories about local hikes into this 5-by-8-inch paperback that’s easy to slip into a daypack or suitcase if you’re visiting the Tahoe area. “I’ve done all the hikes in the book,” Reed says. “When I was choosing which of them to include, I decided there should be something for everyone, whether they’re looking for an adrenaline rush or a stroll in the woods.” Reed, who calls herself an average athlete, scored each hike according to difficulty and scenic value, and she organized the book geographically. It’s a catalogue of short stories about hikes, rather than being crammed with factual details, so you don’t need to be a hiker to enjoy reading it. Reed suggested meeting at the Wrights Lake parking lot early because it’s typically full by midmorning. To get there, look for Wrights Lake Road, located five miles east of Kyburz SUMMER 2020
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Kathryn Reed leads the hike into Twin Lakes, featured in her guidebook.
While following creeks and ponds along largely shaded paths, we stopped to study wildflowers, including purple lupine, blue columbine, and several shades of shooting stars and Indian paintbrush.
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on Highway 50. Turn left (north) on Wrights Lake Road and drive eight miles, following signage for Grouse and Twin Lakes. Drive past the campground to the Wrights Lake trailhead parking area. The winding road takes longer than you might expect, but it’s worth slowing for the vista views to breathe in the smell of pine as temperatures drop and the road climbs in elevation. We began our journey after completing the wilderness permit and snapping cell phone pictures of posted maps at the Twin Lakes trailhead for reference along the way. Reed brought her topographical map, which proved helpful as we made our way up the mountain. Much of the trail is granite and it’s easy to get off track if you don’t pay attention to the rock cairns that serve as markers. The out-and-back trip is about six miles and is a moderate hike with a gradual climb. Some sections are a bit strenuous due to their steep pitch and huge granite
slabs. Anyone with bad knees will surely be reminded of the rocky trail the next day. You begin the hike at an elevation of about 7,000 feet, and there’s an elevation change of about 1,300 feet by the time you reach Twin Lakes. Reed pointed to many off shoots and beautiful rock-and-water views along the trail—making the journey just as remarkable as the destination. “You really don’t need to feel obligated to hit an end point on this trip,” she says. “You could enjoy a side trip and turn around just about anywhere, then go home satisfied by the views.” It was definitely worth completing the trek to Twin Lakes and taking in the area’s 360-degree beauty. Our path began near a lush, green marsh and led us to a glacier-carved alpine lake fed by waterfalls cascading over walls of granite. While following creeks and ponds along largely shaded paths, we stopped to study wildflowers, including purple lupine, blue
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Rock cairns and cool streams are landmarks along the way to Twin Lakes. SUMMER 2020
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There is a dichotomy of scenery, with hardy root trees like pines and manzanita pushing up from rocky slabs of granite, not far from lush bunches of ferns leaning into bubbling streams.
Kathryn Reed
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columbine, and several shades of shooting stars and Indian paintbrush. There is a dichotomy of scenery, with hardy root trees like pines and manzanita pushing up from rocky slabs of granite, not far from lush bunches of ferns leaning into bubbling streams. Along the way, we passed backpackers who had ventured farther to Desolation Wilderness lakes such as Island, Hemlock, Grouse and Smith. (It’s worth noting these high-elevation lakes often are obscured by snow even in mid-summer, and trekking poles are recommended. If you plan to go, call the El Dorado Forest ranger station for trail conditions before setting out.) We also met up with U.S. Forest Service wilderness ranger Tim Excell who was clearing trails after camping for a few days near the higher lakes. We learned more about Desolation Wilderness as he explained how wilderness rangers are rehabilitating some longtime campsites
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U.S. Forest Service wilderness ranger Tim Excell says his job is to protect Desolation Wilderness and help people enjoy it.
and trails so the area maintains its natural beauty and solitude. “We have two goals,” Excell says. “Helping people enjoy themselves and helping protect the area.” He explained: “On the lakes, 100 feet from the water’s edge—about 35 big steps—is considered a restoration area. We ask people not to camp in that area so everyone can enjoy the pristine beauty of the lakes.” Excell shared another camping tip. “If you see rocks on what looks like a campsite, it’s a sign from a ranger not to camp there.” “The Dirt Around Lake Tahoe” includes hikes on every shore of the lake. “Tahoe offers beautiful hiking year-round,” Reed says. “Sometimes you get the bonus of wildflowers and blooming foliage or flowing waterfalls.” For early summer hikes, Reed recommends Tahoe’s east shore because snow typically melts there before melting on the lake’s other shores.
Her book also includes hikes along El Dorado County’s American River Canyon that don’t require driving into the Tahoe Basin. Other destinations she recommends involve a slightly longer drive east from El Dorado Hills toward Carson Valley or Alpine County. “Winnemucca Lake and Showers Lake are both good day trips from El Dorado Hills, and can be nice places to see wildflowers in the summer,” she says. Reed recently released a winter companion book to her first guide, called “Snowshoeing Around Lake Tahoe.” It offers readers a similar approach to discovering new snowshoeing terrain around the lake that’s rated on scenic quality and difficulty. Perhaps it will provide inspiration for a winter edition of “Footloose in the Foothills.” Summer and winter both provide opportunities in El Dorado County. To follow the words of John Muir: “The mountains are calling, and I must go.”
Desolation Wilderness Hiking Tips ● Wear sturdy shoes and dress in layers. ● Consider
using trekking poles.
● Bring
a lunch, snacks and plenty of water. ● Wear
a hat and sunscreen.
● Carry
a map of the area and a first aid kit. ● Be
aware you’re hiking at altitudes above 7,000 feet—higher than Lake Tahoe. ● Pack
out what you’ve packed in.
● Check
to confirm trails are dog friendly. Bury any waste. ● Fishing
is allowed.
● Read
and complete a Desolation Wilderness permit at the trailhead. ● Let
someone know where you’re going. ● There’s
a pit toilet at the Twin Lakes trailhead. SUMMER 2020
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El Dorado’s New
High School Wellness Centers
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A Place for Teens to Talk, Feel Safe and Get Help
hen the Oak Ridge High School Class of 2020 lost a classmate to suicide earlier this year, it shook the entire student body. For students like Diana (not her real name), the new wellness center on campus was nothing short of a lifeline. “I’ve suffered from anxiety and depression since eighth grade, and having someone to talk to right there at the school, right when I needed it, was really important for me,” Diana says. “It reminded me I was not alone, and that there are resources available to help get you through some really hard times.” Diana’s story is a common one among high school students. Guidance counselors across America have been reporting ever-growing numbers of students experiencing more anxiety, depression, stress and personal crises. Locally, the El Dorado Union High School District (EDUHSD) has not been immune to the problem, and that was the case even before COVID-19 sent everyone home. According to the American Psychological Association, members of Generation Z (people aged 15–21) have the worst mental health of any generation currently alive; a fact punctuated by Time Magazine’s recent headline, “More than 90% of Generation Z is Stressed Out.” Closer to home, the California Healthy Kids Survey, commissioned by the California Department of Education, reported between 33 and 39 percent of high schoolers in the EDUHSD said they’d “felt sad or hopeless feelings” in the last 12 months, and a frightening 19–20 percent— one out of five—had “seriously considered attempting suicide” in the past year. by BILL ROMANELLI photos by CHARM PHOTOGRAPHY and DINA GENTRY
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Right: Taylor Johnson, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Sierra Child & Family Services (SCFS) and Katie Hacker
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Sierra Child & Family Services (SCFS) executive director Barry Harwell
SCFS counselor Carlie Regan
SCFS counselor Katie Hacker shares some time with a student.
Anyone who’s a parent or works in education would be justifiably alarmed by those numbers, considering those are just the individuals willing to be honest about it. Even more concerning is the need is growing. It was this need that launched a partnership between EDUHSD and Sierra Child & Family Services to establish new “wellness centers” at five campuses throughout the district. Each is staffed one day a week by two counselors, and are funded primarily from California’s Mental Health Services Act, which makes millions of dollars in grants available to counties throughout the state. “As an organization, we felt we could be doing more to help schools meet students’ crisis needs,” says Barry Harwell, Sierra Child & Family Services’ executive director. “Guidance counselors at schools were being overwhelmed. We wanted to create a program with dedicated people to help guide students and their families into the broader system of community resources and ongoing support.” The idea was modeled after similar programs in Roseville and Whittier in California. In essence, when
guidance counselors recognize students are in crisis (defined as a situation in which a student may be a danger to themselves or others), or who may simply need more help than the guidance office is set up to provide, those students are referred to the wellness center on campus. However, that only starts them on a path to mental wellness. “We’ll have three, maybe four sessions with the students, give them some skills to help them deal with what they’re facing, and assess whether there’s a need for more intervention,” says Kim Hughes, clinical direc-
s
“
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ometimes they just need to talk to someone they can trust, but if they need more, a big part of our job also involves helping them and their parents get the longterm care they need.”
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SCFS Kim Hughes, clinical director, Barry Harwell, Carlie Regan, Katie Hacker, Taylor Johnson, Mandy Fiedler, guidance counselor, Oak Ridge High School and Alison Lishman, assistant principal, Oak Ridge High School
tor of School-Based Mental Health Services with Sierra Child & Family Services. “Sometimes they just need to talk to someone they can trust, but if they need more, a big part of our job also involves helping them and their parents get the long-term care they need.” In those cases, families can face what seems like a maze of doctors, therapists, support programs and insurance companies, leading to interruptions in the student’s care. Helping navigate this maze quickly is a big part of the wellness centers’ function, and it’s fair to say the team is doing yeoman’s work. So far, more than 400 students have been served by the centers, which only opened this past October. It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly what’s causing so much mental and emotional distress among today’s teens and young adults. It’s fair to say today’s high schoolers are dealing with challenges unlike anything faced by generations before them. Th row a pandemic in there, and it only increases everyone’s anxiety. It’s no surprise then that wellness centers are springing up in high schools and districts across the country and
being welcomed with open arms by school staff. “It’s really been a warm blanket to have these centers and their resources available,” says Mandy Fiedler, who’s worked as a guidance counselor at Oak Ridge High School since 2006. “The investment being made in these wellness centers to help teach young people skills in resiliency and to deal with hard times as they are about to enter the adult real world is priceless.” It’s also no surprise that everyone involved is looking for more long-term funding. The current grant of about $208,000 allows for centers to be open one day a week at five campuses in the district. To operate full time at each school every day would require sustained annual funding just north of $1 million. The need is clearly there, so it begs the question: Will more of this kind of support simply treat the symptoms of whatever’s causing so much anxiety and depression today, or will adequately funding mental health needs start to reverse the trend? “The goal here is early intervention. If we can catch kids before they’re in crisis, before they’re in an extreme
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Resources for Parents and Students General Wellness Center Contact Number: (530) 280-2009
●
EDUHSD Wellness Site: scfswellness centers.org/
●
ORHS Teen Wellness: orhs.eduhsd.k12. ca.us/Counseling—Career-Center/ Counseling/Teen-Wellness/index.html ●
Barry Harwell, El Dorado Union High School District board trustees Jessicca Rodgers, David Del Rio, Lori Veerkamp, Kevin Brown (president), Timothy Cary and Superintendent Ron Carruth perform the ribbon cutting this past fall.
situation, then we can be more successful at helping them transition into being healthy adults,” says Pam Bartlett, senior director of student success with the EDUHSD. “We won’t have good data for a couple more years, but we will be able to measure success by a decrease in the number of students who need crisis intervention.” Until then, it’s also important to equip parents as much as possible to recognize if and when their kids need help. That may sound easier said than done, especially since the last people most teens say they want to talk to are their parents, but there are some helpful strategies parents can employ.
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f I could pass any message on to my classmates, I’d tell them don’t be afraid to communicate or talk to someone,” Diana says.
ORHS Wellness Center email: trojan wellness@eduhsd.k12.ca.us
●
“Simply spending time with them is important,” says Taylor Johnson, a clinician, licensed nurse and family therapist who staff s the centers. “And watch for changes in behavior. If they start to get withdrawn, or grades start to drop, or they’re just not being themselves, that’s the time to start asking them questions.” Importantly, those questions can’t sound like an interrogation or judgment. It’s OK to let kids know they don’t have to talk “right now” and it’s better to ask if they are alright instead of asking “what’s wrong with you?” If you’re not sure where to start, but you’re concerned something’s wrong, call their school guidance counselor and let them know what you’re seeing. They can help. “If I could pass any message on to my classmates, I’d tell them don’t be afraid to communicate or talk to someone,” Diana says. “That was my biggest fear, but once you start opening up it gets so much better. These wellness centers are a place where you can feel safe, and where you can count on someone to listen.”
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Get the digital edition. NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE OR VIA THE APP
SACMAG.COM/DIGITAL-EDITION
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LOCAL MUSICIAN INSPIRED BY SIERRA FOOTHILLS
Meet Patrick Walsh
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El Dorado County songwriter and performer Patrick Walsh is a musician whose work is difficult to classify by genre. Walsh, a popular artist who performs at venues from Sacramento and El Dorado County to South Lake Tahoe, likes to switch things up with bluegrass, jazz and a reggae island vibe during every show. His quest for musical diversity is likely rooted from a lifetime of playing multiple instruments, including piano, trumpet, guitar and harmonica. And that quest could be fueling his current evolution, which focuses on performing Americana-inspired acoustic guitar instrumentals rather than singing and performing as a one-man band. Walsh explains his approach was deliberate from the start. “As soon as I began performing and creating albums, I decided I didn’t want to be held to one genre,” he says. “I like being spontaneous and hop styles from song to song during a performance.” He’s transitioned to performing the instrumental versions of melodies he originally performed with lyrics, often recording himself playing rhythm guitar and then playing live guitar solos and melodies over the recordings. “People who know my music recognize the instrumentals,” he says. “I try to set a mood and take people away on little journeys,” says Walsh. “That’s partly why I like instrumental music so much. I’m very happy with the lyrics of my songs, but instrumentals allow listeners to think about whatever, and pay attention to the music as much as they want. I don’t like to make music that is too intrusive—just something that fits pleasantly into daily activities like driving, where you can just sort of daydream along with it.” A prolific writer, Walsh has performed and produced more than 60 albums of original music on his LoCal Music label, sold on his website and on Spotify, iTunes and Amazon. He records at his Hangtown Studio in Placerville. “I keep busy with recording,” he says. Walsh finds song inspiration in the Sierra foothills, or in everyday experiences. “I’m inspired by anything and everything in life including the daily grind,” he says. “I even wrote a song that sounded sort of like a love song, but it was about a fork. It was just to see how boring and mundane a topic I could take and turn it into a song.” Walsh’s musical career has been anything but mundane. He began playing piano just after kindergarten, when his musically inclined mother enrolled him in lessons. By the fourth grade, he was playing trumpet in the school band, and by junior high school, he was writing his own music. Walsh continued playing both piano and trumpet through community college, and joined his brother-in-law’s rockabilly band as a rhythm guitarist at the age of 19. Walsh taught himself to play guitar, harmonica and drums. He’s delighted audiences by playing multiple instruments—sometimes at the same time—during performances. Look for Walsh to be playing this summer at local venues throughout El Dorado Hills and Placerville, including regional wineries. For details, check out patrickwalshmusic.com.
by JOLAINE COLLINS photography by LISA CHARRIE SUMMER 2020
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Incredible Resiliency This spring, when the state’s stay-at-home orders came down and the region’s students were moved to distance learning, school and district officials, faculty and support staff abruptly shifted gears—as did the kids. Here, let’s applaud them all on a job well done, starting with our high school seniors.
CONGRATULATIONS, CLASS OF 2020! Most of them were born in the wake of 9/11, lived through the Great Recession and graduated in the time of COVID-19. Their senior proms, sports and academic awards nights, end-of-year dinners, Disneyland trips, traditional graduation ceremonies and Sober Grad Night: cancelled. They face uncertainty in their college plans. But they have stayed hardy and optimistic, and we salute them.
“
“Class of 2020—In a time of great challenge, you are resilient, strong, and exemplify great promise! You will go far. Congratulations on your significant achievement!”
—Dr. Ed Manansala, El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools
“Congratulations, you’ve conquered this level of education and endured COVID-19’s challenges; now go create your new destiny and, remember, nothing’s impossible if you put your mind to it!”—Brian K.
Veerkamp, County Board of Supervisor (Chair), Lori M. Veerkamp, El Dorado Union High School District Board Member
“High school graduation is a defining, yet bittersweet moment. Virtually overnight, one chapter of life
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ends while another one begins. My wish for all of you is that you follow your dreams and achieve great things, because the best is yet to come. Class of 2020, congratulations on one of many successes!” —Andrea Howard, Principal Planner, Parker Development Company
“To the graduating class of 2020—Congratulations! You have undertaken the first critical step on a sure pathway to success, and I hope that you will continue on this course. Your whole lives are ahead of you, and what you have the potential to accomplish is incalculable. Your journey going forward will certainly have more of the diversity that you have encountered, and conquered, during your final semester of high school. Keep conquering it, and keep perse-
vering. Godspeed.”—Vern Pierson, El Dorado County District Attorney
“Having a grandchild graduating this year, I know how much effort is involved for the student and the parents. Your lives have been actionpacked with school, sports and other activities. You’ve accomplished great things and now have experienced this strange time as young adults with great resilience. I am very proud of the tenacious class of 2020.—Bill Parker, President, Parker Development Company
“Congratulations, class of 2020. I offer these words of wisdom from President Harry S. Truman, “It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.”—John D’Agostini, El Dorado County Sheriff
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GIVING THANKS FOR LEADERSHIP Not one of the people below would want to sit in the spotlight. Instead, they would shine it on the principals, teachers, support staff, board members and, of course, the students. But someone’s got to lead the charge, so let’s give credit where it’s due—to the men and women who make daily decisions that impact the lives of so many in our educational system: the superintendents.
“D
uring these unprecedented times, our El Dorado County school district superintendents have navigated tremendous challenges, ranging from supporting families with basic needs to empowering educators in the transition to distance learning. I feel privileged to work alongside these educators, and am grateful for their steadfast strength and leadership.” —Dr. Ed Manansala, El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools
Jeremy Meyers, Superintendent, Black Oak Mine Unified School District
Dr. David Roth, Superintendent, Buckeye Union School District
Matt Smith, Superintendent, Camino Union School District
Dr. Ron Carruth, Superintendent, El Dorado Union High School District
Meg Enns, Superintendent, Gold Oak Union School District
Scott Lyons, Superintendent, Gold Trail Union School District
Grant Coffin, Superintendent, Indian Diggings School District
Dr. James Tarwater, Superintendent, Lake Tahoe Unified School District
Natalie Miller, Superintendent, Latrobe School District
Annette Lane, Superintendent, Pioneer Union School District
Dr. Marcy Guthrie, Superintendent, Mother Lode Union School District
Eric Bonniksen, Superintendent, Placerville Union School District
Pat Atkins, Superintendent, Pollock Pines/ Silver Fork School Districts
Cheryl Olson, Superintendent, Rescue Union School District
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HEROES IN THE MAKING In mid-March, teachers sent home from their classrooms dove into the digital depths of distance learning, while food service providers and other support staffers stepped in to help however they could. Whether setting up virtual classrooms, providing tech help or packing meals for delivery or curbside pickup at bus loops, people helped people, even from six or more feet away.
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1. Camino Polytech story time. 2. Despite school closures, Indian Diggings supports students with distance learning and continues their Veggie Starts fundraiser. 3. Placerville Union School District teacher reads story. 4. Lake Tahoe Unified School District delivers meals. 5. Georgetown School of Innovation teachers Mr. and Mrs. Appleby sing a good morning song.
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7. Camerado Springs full inclusion program and Valley View Charter Montessori students engage in distance learning. 8. El Dorado Union High School District food service team at Ponderosa High School. 9. Lake Forest Elementary teacher Amy Schulze spends an afternoon doing mobile visits. 10. Latrobe School packets ready for pick up.
6. Mother Lode Union School District Superintendent Marcy Guthrie greets families with learning packets.
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COME EXPERIENCE THE
of
AT DOCO
OCT. 8, 2020 5:30 to 10 pm
The Best Sta s Here
#bos2020
BOS House.indd 49
405 K St, Sacramento 6/11/20 11:51 AM
Dear El Dorado County Family and Friends by DR. ED MANANSALA
T
DR. ED MANANSALA
EL DORADO COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION SUPERINTENDENT
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he year 2020 has been a challenging one. COVID-19 has impacted all of us, changing the way we live and work and relate to one another. When the El Dorado County Office of Education (EDCOE), our 15 school districts and El Dorado County Public Health Officer, Dr. Nancy Williams, first closed school facilities on March 14, we could hardly imagine the closures would remain in effect through the end of the school year. We were faced with the daunting task of serving students in an entirely new way. I have seen individuals and organizations step forward in amazing ways, providing hope and encouragement, and demonstrating incredible resiliency. EDCOE and school district teams overcame intense challenges to support our students and families with everything from food service to distance learning. Food service is critical for many of our students – some receive their meals primarily from their school site. Our schools made it a top priority to continue feeding students, providing hundreds of meals each day. Teachers
quickly transitioned, accelerating their distance teaching abilities so students could continue to grow through online platforms and printed take-home packets. Technology teams worked countless hours to provide devices and internet connectivity to students who did not have digital access. Our special education and English-Learner teams implemented innovative methods to support every student. I remain grateful for the solid collaboration at every level in El Dorado County. County agency leaders have worked hand-in-hand to make the best decisions for our communities. In partnership with our nonprofit sector, we have been working to ensure families receive crucial services such as food, financial assistance, childcare and more. While our school buildings may be closed for now, our commitment to educating and caring for our students remains the same. We will continue to evolve and navigate these challenges together. Th ank you, El Dorado County, for your enduring dedication and compassion.
SERRANO SUMMER 2020
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6/19/20 3:51 PM
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Gracious Retirement Living 8476 Sheldon Road Elk Grove, CA 95624
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