Eye on Education 2018 by Signal

SANTA CLARITA CHRISTIAN S C H O O L

College Preparatory Academics taught from a Christian Worldview CIF Champions: Basketball (2018), Swimming (2014, 2015-17), Girls Volleyball (2014), Football (2008-09), Baseball (2004)

• Dual College Credit/Enrollment & Advanced Placement Classes • Students Accepted into the Nation’s Top Universities

CIF-SS Division 5AAA State Champions: Basketball (2018)

• 12:1 Student-to-Teacher Ratio • Caring, Christian teachers and coaches

Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

• K-12 Competitive Sports: Thirty-five competitive athletic teams offered for grades K-12.

Member of Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI)

CLASS OF 2017

COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE

93% $1.5

of the 2017 graduating class received an academic and/or athletic honor. million in scholarships were offered to the 2017 graduating class.

77 100%

number of schools to which the 2017 graduates were accepted. number of students from the 2017 graduating class who are matriculating into college.

Congratulations Class of 2018!

Now enrolling for the 2018-19 school year!

661.252.7371

Schedule your personal campus tour today! 27249 Luther Drive Santa Clarita, CA 91351 Serving grades K-12

www.sccs.cc

2 • EYE ON EDUCATION

Daniel Curry SCCS Alumni

“When I graduated from SCCS in 2011, I knew I wanted to be a pilot,” shared Daniel. Daniel was nominated and selected for a fullride scholarship to attend the US Merchant Marine Academy. “I have had so many opportunities to travel around the world, as part of the engineering program and training I received,” said Daniel. In December 2016, Daniel received a letter from the Department of the Navy congratulating him on being selected as a Student Aviator and Officer. He began his pilot’s training in Pensacola, Florida in August, 2017 after graduating from the USMMA with an engineering degree and Coast guard license. Daniel has completed the ground school portion of the flight training and has received his student private pilot’s license. He moved to Corpus Christi, Texas in March 2018 to complete Primary Flight Training and will be assigned to the aircraft that he will be trained to fly.

“I appreciate the education I received at SCCS,” said Daniel. “From the teachers to the AP classes offered, the friends made and the sports played, I could not have gotten a better foundation to step up to future endeavors. I was encouraged to stretch myself physically, spiritually and mentally. My relationships with the coaches and teachers continues to be a great encouragement to me.” Daniel is currently a Student Naval Aviator, US Navy Ensign.

Welcome to our School!

Pre-Kindergarten (4-5 year olds) Mon/Wed/Fri $372 monthly Preschool (3-4 year olds) Tues/Thurs $288 monthly Hours AM Classes: 8:15am-11:15am PM Classes: 11:45pm-2:45pm

28310 Kelly Johnson Pkwy Valencia, CA 91355 Off Copper Hill & Newhall Ranch Rd http://www.noahs-park.org cari.byers@northpark.com (661) 621-6010

LIC# 197417908

EYE ON EDUCATION â&#x20AC;¢

TABLE OF CONTENTS 10| 14| 16|

How to Help Kids Learn to Love Reading The Important Role of Vision in the Classroom 4 Ways to Encourage Stem in your Middle Schooler

Vice President & Editor Jason Schaff jschaff@signalscv.com Special Sections Editor Eva Piccolo epiccolo@signalscv.com Publisher Chuck Champion cchampion@signalscv.com

Executive V.P. of Community Relations Russ Briley rbriley@signalscv.com Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer Gary Sproule gsproule@signalscv.com

22| 24| 26|

3 Techniques to Help Kids Concentrate How to Inspire your Teen to Expand their Horizons Jobs for Students Proficient in Math

Chief Revenue Officer Ken DePaola kdepaola@signalscv.com

Executive Administrative Assistant Courtney Briley

Multi-Media Account Executives Maureen Daniels Michael Madigan Toni Sims Peter Smith

Graphic Designer Joshua Fleck

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Noah’s Park Preschool

ou may have heard that a child’s brain goes through it’s most important growth and development between the ages of 3 and 5. At a time when their experiences are so likely to shape who they will become, how can parents best support their child’s needs? With so many different theories in early childhood education, the first place to start is to get to know your options. Our mission at Noah’s Park Preschool is to provide an environment that nurtures sound spiritual and developmental needs. We hope to help each child build the foundation of Christ’s love needed to guide them throughout their lives. We believe children learn through spiritual, cognitive, physical, social, emotional and developmental activities. Our curriculum combines

music, art, games, writing, and imaginative play to provide a variety of ways of learning the Bible, phonics, colors, shapes, math and science. We keep our ratios very low so children can have the individual attention they need to feel nurtured and encouraged. Our preschool is education based, while being thoughtful and keeping it structured in such a manner that the child is learning in a fun and age appropriate way. Our goal is to strike the right balance between hands on exploration, kindergarten readiness, and good old fashioned fun, while keeping Biblical truths interwoven throughout our daily activities. We would love to have you visit us to see if our program is the right fit for your family! Please give us a call at (661) 621-6010 today.

SCCS High School Concert Choir Ministers to Churches and Schools During their Visit to Sydney, Australia

he Santa Clarita Christian High School Concert Choir had the opportunity to visit beautiful Sydney, Australia for a choir tour this Spring. “This was our first international trip and it was a huge success,” shared SCCS Choir Teacher, Susi Johnson. “We sang for three churches, five schools, a community choir and held multiple choir workshops. It was surreal for our students to be able to meet new friends all the way across the world and to see what it’s like to be a high school student in Australia.” Students also sang in front of the Sydney Opera House, toured the Blue Mountains in Katoomba, surfed at Bondi Beach and did a high ropes course! SCCS Choir Chaplain, Ramy Wahba had this to say about our trip, “Australia was full of new friends and experiences, fruitful ministry, beautiful music, genuine worship, and spiritual growth. Truly, the trip gave us a glimpse of an eternity of praise to God and fellowship with other followers of Christ all participating in the goodness He has

laid out for us.” At SCCS we desire to create well-rounded students. We encourage students to foster a deep love of the arts and we teach them about our world and various cultures. As Christians we desire to show them how to serve and love each person that they meet, whether in their neighborhood or halfway across the world! If you are looking for a school that will challenge your child academically, while fostering a Biblical worldview, then consider SCCS. With a low student-to-teacher ratio, competitive sports for grades K-12, dual enrollment and Advanced Placement classes and full and half day Kindergarten programs, SCCS students continue to matriculate into the nation’s top universities. SCCS is now enrolling for the 2018-19 school year. To schedule your campus tour today or for more information call (661) 252-7371 or visit www.sccs.cc or facebook.com/SantaClaritaChristianSchool.

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Westmark Schools Signature Programs Help Transform Lives

uring Westmark School’s recent Spring Open House, classroom demonstrations, student and parent panels, and hands-on instructional student activities showcased the school’s unique teaching methodologies and strategies that have helped transform the lives of thousands of students in grades 2-12 with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and other language-based learning differences. Westmark’s specialized instruction allows their students - who have bright minds but have struggled with their learning differences in other environments - to access the curriculum, sometimes for the first time ever. They discover that, they can learn, find their self-esteem and confidence, and experience the joy of success -- academically, socially and emotionally. Everyone knows how good it feels to succeed at some-

thing…Westmark builds on each student’s strengths so they can know that feeling too, in the classroom, on the playing field or while performing on stage. Using research-based methodologies to tailor curriculum and teach to individualized learning styles, Westmark instills the idea that interesting, innovative thinking only comes from people who think differently. Students come to realize what they are good at, and learn how to advocate for themselves, both inside and outside of school. They emerge with an enduring confidence in their own intelligence and creativity which often changes the trajectory of their entire lives. For more information and to find out more about Westmark’s signature programs or their Summer Academic Program, Summer S.M.A.R.T.S., contact Cindy Goodman, Director of Admissions, cgoodman@westmarkschool.org or 818.986-5045.

The ideal setting

for success.

Bishop Alemany’s spectacular 55-acre campus inspires students to achieve — academically, athletically, artistically, and spiritually. Our superb college preparatory curriculum enables teens to lay solid ground work for scholastic excellence while developing strong core values that last a lifetime. Call today to schedule a tour.

Bishop Alemany High School A Catholic Community of Excellence

www.alemany.org

Curriculum includes 4-year Engineering and Biomedical Science projectbased programs Our renowned Campus Ministry department teaches values, faith and development of the whole student

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

11111 N. Alemany Dr., Mission Hills, CA 91345 • (818) 837-5222 • admissions@alemany.org

www.alemany.org

6 • EYE ON EDUCATION

A game changer for students with language-based learning differences. Since our students learn differently, we teach differently.

Grades 2-12 Transforming the lives of students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia and other language-based learning differences, often combined with ADD/ADHD. n

Individualized Strength-Based Instruction

College Preparatory Curriculum Educational & Assistive Technology

Contact Cindy Goodman, Director of Admissions at cgoodman@westmarkschool.org

EYE ON EDUCATION â&#x20AC;˘

Safety Town

afety Town is a one-week, 3½ - hour day, safety education summer program. Safety awareness is introduced to children (ages 4½ to 6 years) in an age appropriate, fun, and secure environment. The Safety Town program teaches children to evaluate “safe” from “unsafe” situations, through large and small group lessons, daily guest visits and demonstrations from local community safety professionals, songs, lessons, crafts, and pedestrian/driver role play. Safety topics covered each week include: Earthquake & Disaster, Fire / 9-1-1, Personal and Stranger Dan-

ger, Water safety, Vehicle and Passenger safety, Bicycle/Wheels safety, and Animal safety. The “Town” has child-size buildings, street signs, crosswalks, sidewalks, traffic light and small pedal cars with safety belts. Children practice and reinforce basic safety rules and behaviors under the guidance of California-credentialed teachers and youth volunteers. Camps will be held at Charles Helmers Elementary School, daily from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, on June 25 – 29, July 9 – 13, and July 16 – 20. For more information go to www.safetytownscv.com

Safety Town Safety First for Santa Clarita’s Kids

Fire/9-1-1 • Personal • Pedestrian • Vehicle • Bicycle • Playground

SAFETY TOWN teaches young children 4 ½ - to – 6 years of age, essential safety skills for everyday life. Child dren tour a fire truck, drive pedal cars, learn about safety crossing streetss, water safety and more.

From 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM at Charles Helmers Elementary School $150 PER CHILD (includes a T-shirt, school bag, healthy snacks). Some scholarships available for qualifying families.

For an Ap pplication and Information visit w ww ww.Safety ww yTownSCV.com Tel: (661) 360-6457 » Email: susan@santaclaritaoptimistfoundation.org

The Santa Clarita Optimist Foundation sponsors Safety Town, and is and IRS-designated Public Charity, Federal Tax ID #46-4800950

8 • EYE ON EDUCATION

Explore Extended Studies at the California Institute of the Arts

xtended Studies at CalArts (California Institute of the Arts) offers unique credit and non-credit bearing courses for students interested in exploring the arts on or off-campus. Developed with the same artistic flavor and integrity as CalArts’s curricular courses, Extended Studies offers on-campus portfolio development workshops, summer residencies, and Project Lab, the recently launched online option to accommodate a professional’s busy work schedule. New this summer, Discover Animation is an intensive program

for young artists, ages 14-17, who want to explore the fundamentals of animation on campus. The wide array of Extended Studies courses include acting and theater, animation, creative writing and critical studies, film and video, graphic design, and visual art. CalArts’s faculty, practitioners, and lecturers create a dynamic learning environment for students each year. Many of CalArts’s alumni now serve as Extended Studies instructors, guest speakers, and mentors. For more information, please visit extendedstudies.calarts.edu or call 661-222-2746.

extendedstudies.calarts.edu

Continue your education with innovative arts courses designed to meet your needs, whether you’re an emerging artist or a lifelong learner.

EYE ON EDUCATION •

HOW TO HELP KIDS LEARN TO LOVE READING

eading is a passion for many people. But even avid readers may not know just how far back their love of reading stretches. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children who find pleasure in reading have the potential to become lifelong readers. In addition, studies have shown that reading to children can help kids become familiar with sounds, words and language, helping them in their earliest stages of cognitive development. So adults who love books might be able to trace their passion for page-turners to those times their mothers and fathers read aloud to them as youngsters. Parents who want to their children to learn

to love reading can rely on various techniques to accomplish that goal. Make reading a routine. Routine is a necessity for parents, helping children learn when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to eat, play and go to sleep, among other things. Parents can include reading to their children as part of their daily routines. As noted, doing so will promote language skills and cognitive development while also acclimating children to books and providing valuable time for them to bond with their parents. Create a distraction-free reading environment. When reading to children, parents can create an environment with little to no distractions. This allows kids to focus on their Continued on page 12

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The Silver Tsunami Creating Fulfilling Careers in Health Care

s more and more Baby Boomers retire, they’re opening up employment opportunities, while also tending to need more care themselves. The silver tsunami, as it has been called, is creating a demand for employees in all areas of health care. This is one of the reasons Charter College Canyon Country offers medical assistant and dental assisting certificate programs. With a medical assistant education, graduates have a variety of options, including: Medical Assistant, Clinical Assistant, Medical Reception-

ist or Medical Office Assistant. The Charter College dental assisting program prepares them for entry-level employment as Chairside Dental Assistants or Dental X-Ray Technicians in dental offices. Both programs can be completed in less than a year. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to help our students get the skills they need to help our local health care facilities better serve our community,” said Campus President Juan Tabanera. For details on these programs, visit www.chartercollege. edu/locations/canyon-country-ca.

Rewarding healthcare careers start here. Now enrolling: Medical Assistant Dental Assisting Launch a medical or dental career in just 10 months. We offer the hands-on training, supportive learning environment, and job search help that lead to success.

chartercollege.edu | 661.252.1864 19034 Soledad Canyon Road • Canyon Country Important information about the educational debt, earnings, and completion rates of students who attended this program is available at http://ow.ly/oSVO30dC8Dn

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HOW TO HELP KIDS LEARN TO LOVE READING CONT. parents’ voices as well as the story they’re being told. Parents can turn off the television and the radio when reading to their kids. In addition, moms and dads should leave smartphones or tablets in another room so they aren’t distracted by alerts or tempted to check for incoming messages or emails. Read aloud together. Some children may shy away from reading if they struggle in their initial efforts to read. That does not mean kids won’t ultimately enjoy reading, it just means a little more effort may be required on parents’ part to help kids overcome any issues they have. Reading aloud to children can help little ones learn how to become good readers, as they will learn how to pronounce words and form sentences. Kids who know how to read

can be encouraged to read to their parents, which can instill self-esteem. If kids struggle with certain words or sentences when reading aloud, parents can read those words and/or sentences aloud to them and ask them to repeat the phrases back. Let kids pick their own books. When reading to youngsters, whether they’re babies, toddlers or already in school, parents can let sons and daughters choose their own books. Children might be especially enthusiastic about reading if they’re allowed to choose their own books and stories. Reading can benefit children from the earliest stages of their lives all the way through adulthood. Parents can take various steps to foster a love of reading in their children. (MC) 

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Castaic Union School District

astaic Union School District, in partnership with the community, provides children with a creative and collaborative learning environment supported by a safe, nurturing atmosphere that creates lifelong learners and empowers them to be critical thinkers in a global community. Castaic serves students in transitional kindergarten through eighth grades. Additionally, we offer a variety of preschool programs. Our modern classrooms use innovative, cutting-edge technology, including Chromebooks, iPads and Smart Boards, to enhance student learning. Many of our classrooms offer flexible seating and students are encouraged to collaborate in group settings. Our high-achieving schools offer a number of unique STEM programs, including Drone education and technology, Makerspaces, and Coding. We also offer music programs at all of our schools, including choir, band, keyboarding, guitar

and hands-on music instruction. In addition, our schools offer a Visual and Performing Arts focus as well as teachers trained in Arts Integration. We are proud to offer our Artist in Residency Workshops, our nationally-recognized CMStv (media broadcasting and journalism), and student-led performances. To better prepare students for the future, we offer Career Pathway programs along with presentations by community members representing a variety of career fields. We also ensure that our students participate in rigorous physical education programs. In addition to the many educational programs, Castaic also offers after-school childcare and enrichment programs, including Spanish and Robotics. Student achievement and engagement are at the forefront of our educational focus. We offer a personalized learning approach for all students. Call today for a tour of our campuses: 661-257-4500.

Keep the Music Going All Summer Long! LITTLE SCHOOL OF MUSIC BY MINDY CABRAL

f you are considering not taking summer music lessons, think again. Summer is a great time to get started and continue in lessons since most kids aren’t in school and don’t have the same time restraints from homework or tests to study for. Summer music lessons allow students to keep up on good playing habits and prevents them from losing the skills they spent so much time working on. Playing an instrument includes physical strength and coordination. Your muscles and brain are being trained simultaneously. This means when you return to lessons after an extended break, you will not necessarily just pick it up where you left off. You will most likely have to review material already learned to

“get your chops back” (or get back into shape) before you are able to move forward. That sets the student back and can be very discouraging and frustrating for them and their teachers. I often hear people say they wished they had just kept their lessons going. Students planning to join their school band or orchestra next year should consider taking private lessons to get a head start! Some instruments can be more difficult at the beginning and having one-on-one instruction helps get started. A variety of music programs are available all summer including: private lessons, group classes, camps, performance ensembles/bands, and concerts. If you’re new to music or have played before, there is something for for you! Call the friendly staff at Little School of Music for more information: 661-222-2239

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THE IMPORTANT ROLE OF V

arents often go to great lengths to help their children succeed in the classroom. Offering homework help and/ or hiring tutors can help kids achieve their academic potential, but parents should not overlook the effects their children’s vision can have on their performance in the classroom. The American Optometric Association notes that students perform visual tasks in the classroom throughout a typical school day. Kids rely on their vision when reading, writing or using computers. When that vision is not functioning properly, students’ performance may suffer. What are some warning signs that kids may be struggling with their vision? The AOA notes that

undeveloped or poorly developed visual skills can make it difficult or stressful for youngsters to learn. But children may not always inform their parents if they’re struggling with their vision. Rather, the AOA says children with poor visual skills will typically avoid reading or other near visual work as much as possible. Students also may attempt to do their work, but do so with a lowered level of comprehension or efficiency. Discomfort, fatigue and shortened attention spans are other potential indicators of undeveloped or poorly developed visual skills. Children experiencing eye and vision problems also may suffer from frequent headaches, cover one eye, tilt their head to one side, lose their place when

14 • EYE ON EDUCATION

VISION IN THE CLASSROOM reading, see double, and/or hold reading materials close to their face. Are poor visual skills always diagnosed? Because undeveloped or poorly developed visual skills elicit many of the same symptoms associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, some kids struggling with their vision may be misdiagnosed with ADHD. To ensure kids are accurately diagnosed, the AOA recommends that children receive routine eye examinations. This is especially important for school-aged children, as vision changes frequently during this period. Visual problems like myopia (nearsightedness) or refractive errors like farsightedness or astigmatisms can adversely affect students’ academic performance. When should

kids receive eye exams? The AOA recommends children receive annual eye examinations. More frequent examinations are recommended for children experiencing specific vision problems. School screenings are not sufficient, as the AOA notes that such screenings only test for distance visual acuity. Comprehensive optometric examinations are more thorough than school screenings and can reveal issues that can adversely affect students in the classroom. Undeveloped or poorly developed visual skills can adversely affect kids’ academic performance. But annual optometric examinations can detect vision problems that may otherwise go undiagnosed. (MC) 

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STEMMING THE LEAK:

4 WAYS TO ENCOURAGE STEM IN YOUR MIDDLE SCHOOLER

ven though many Americans understand the importance of STEM education, children in the U.S. continue to lose interest in science, technology, engineering and math subjects at young ages. Not surprisingly, 44 percent of U.S. adults say they felt more excited about science when they were kids, reports the State of Science Index, a global study commissioned by 3M examining the general population’s attitudes toward science. Maintaining students’ interest in science during the middle school years is crucial to increasing the likelihood they’ll pursue STEM careers. That’s important, since studies show our nation will need to produce an additional one million STEM workers between 2012 and 2022 alone. That said, we’re still not on track to meet demand, partly because students continue to lose interest. What’s the answer? Creating a rich culture of STEM education in schools requires professional development, suggests Cindy Moss, vice president of global STEM initiatives for curriculum

developer Discovery Education. She points to research showing teachers need 80 hours of cumulative targeted professional development before effectively teaching STEM-promoting classes. “Many educators in our country believe we need to accelerate our approach to STEM education,” Moss says. “There are three to four million STEM job openings in the U.S. right now, and companies can’t find American workers with the skills they need. Fifty percent of everybody’s jobs right now are STEM, and they’re predicting that in the next 10 years about 75 percent of all jobs will involve STEM.” What can parents and educators do to foster more interest? Consider the following: Find role models. If a child doesn’t know anyone working in STEM, he or she may be unable to imagine a career in such roles. Introduce him or her to people actively working in such fields, then encourage discussion and/or job shadowing. Teachers might bring in speakers who can answer candid questions about the rewards and challenges in their fields - including significant Continued on page 18

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Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Lose Ground This Summer

magine training an athlete for nine months, getting them to the perfect level of conditioning...then telling them to take three months off and do nothing! Now, imagine getting them back on the field of competition at the end of those three months and expecting them to perform at their training peak. While every good coach will build varying levels of intensity into their training programs, none would ever recommend extended periods in which not even minimal skills are practiced. Ironically, however, this is the very thing that parents routinely do over summer vacation. This can have profound consequences on the ability of children to remain at or above grade level in critical academic areas. Studies have shown that, on average, students lose nearly 2.6 months of grade level equivalency in mathematical computation skills over the summer months: nearly one third of a school year! The same thing can happen with reading and writing skills. Parents can do a lot for their children during the summer to keep their interest in learning alive. It is easy to underestimate the academic progress that can be made with even a few hours of tutoring each week during these months. The Tutoring Club provides the setting and expertise to develop and maintain academic skills over the summer months. Tutoring can help a child return to school with increased confidence, and a greater likelihood of quickly picking up and moving past the academic level they were at when summer began. For more information call Tutoring Club at 661-7029956 or visit us online at www.tutoringclub.com

HUGE SUMMER DISCOUNT!

EYE ON EDUCATION â&#x20AC;˘

STEMMING THE LEAK CONT.

demand and attractive pay scales. Seek achievement opportunities. Introducing children to engaging events like the annual Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge may spark their sense of competition and passion for STEM. The annual contest, invites innovators in grades five through eight to develop one- to two-minute videos describing their ideas for creative solutions to tackle everyday problems. The top 10 finalists receive a summer mentorship with a 3M scientist, and the winner will receive $25,000. Last year’s winner, Gitanjali Rao, developed a device that measures lead levels in drinking water, inspired by the recent water crisis in Flint, Michigan. Keep participating. Reducing involvement in your child’s daily academics once he or she enters middle school may backfire. One study shows middle schoolers maintain a more positive attitude toward science when their parents continue to display interest. The Rao family, for example, frequently visits museums and holds game nights focusing on problem solving. “We encourage our children to communicate their ideas clearly and concisely and understand real-world issues,” notes Bharathi Rao, Gitanjali’s mother. “We hope we can instill the value of compassion while helping them understand they

have the power to create change.” Discourage snap decisions. During adolescence, Moss notes, kids struggling to figure out who they are can easily form inaccurate perceptions of their academic weaknesses. Reassure your child one challenging assignment or bad grade need not rule out a future career. “Kids often make up their minds by sixth grade whether they’re capable of doing science and math,” says Moss. “We have definitive evidence that by age 6, girls have already started to internalize negative stereotypes that science and math are not for girls.” In reality, she notes, understanding science and math simply requires more thinking for some people than others; it’s not a skill based on gender. According to State of Science Index findings, 96 percent of U.S. parents want their kids to know more about science. It’s critical for us to maintain interest during the middle school years, and according to Moss it’s our responsibility to help children see the possibilities. “Kids in fifth through eighth grade have a whole lot of empathy and really do want to make the world a better place,” she says. “They have the power, but we need to instill confidence and give them the tools and encouragement to pursue STEM.” (BPT) 

18 • EYE ON EDUCATION

Behavioral Learning Center, Inc.

ur Philosophy Grounded in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Behavioral Learning Center, Inc. (BLC) specializes at improving socially significant skills for individuals living with developmental challenges. Working with caregivers, BLC strives to provide learning experiences that will benefit families long

after services have ended. BLC is a provider with the North Los Angeles Regional Center. We are in network with multiple commercial insurance plans as well as medi-cal managed care providers. Please contact us directly at insurance@blcca.com or 661-254-7086 to confirm we accept your plan.

SERVICES • Intensive Applied Behavior Analysis • Discrete Trial Training • Adaptive Skills Training • Behavior Modification

• School Services • Counseling Services • Social Skills Groups

A Record of Academic Excellence Empowering students to excel in the Common Core State Standards. • Critical Thinking • Collaboration • Communication • Creativity With a focus on science, technology, and the arts, the Newhall School District has opportunities for all students. Highlights Include: • Highest State test scores in the SCV year after year • Dedicated science facilities at all campuses • A 1:1 computer-to-student ratio • Strong parent involvement • And so much more!

There’s a place for your child in the Newhall School District. Contact us today for information on enrollment opportunities.

(661) 291-4182 newhallschooldistrict.net Facebook.com/NewhallSchoolDistrict

25375 Orchard Village Road, Ste. 200, Santa Clarita, CA 91355 lts compare, State test resu To see how our rict.net ist old allscho visit www.newh

EYE ON EDUCATION •

Working Strategically and Getting Results NEWHALL SCHOOL DISTRICT PAUL CORDEIRO, SUPERINTENDENT

n 2017, the Newhall School District, again, ran the table on CAASPP testing. For the third consecutive year, its scores were the highest in every grade and subject in the Santa Clarita Valley and, by far, higher than LA County and the State (see results on our website). Notable was our huge jump in math scores pushing us head and shoulders above everyone else. Question: How are you doing it? Answer: We keep on it, over multiple years, providing unceasing support, the best new materials, and obsessive oversight, to wit: • We selected and trained four teachers on special assignment (math coaches) who modeled lessons, assisted with lesson planning, created assessments and, overall, helped teachers improve their practice. • We hired an expert math consultant, Sarah

Schuhl of Solution Tree, who mentored our coaches and worked directly with grade level teachers to help them master math content, organize lessons using our newly adopted math programs (Bridges and College Preparatory Math), and learn researched-based pedagogy. • We made sure that our math programs were implemented with fidelity. • We created formative and summative assessments, administered on-line, and carefully monitored results through our grade level PLCs. • We provided training to new teachers and to teachers changing grade levels. • We involved our site administrators at every step in the process. Substitute another challenge (e.g., accelerating ELs’ progress toward reclassification) and the strategy will be the same. We set clear goals. We implement. We stay focused. We review/revise. Newhall’s method is working and 2018 results will be even better.

20 • EYE ON EDUCATION

Better Grades Start This Summer

ummer is quickly approaching! Valencia Tutors Learning Center has designed a unique summer program to meet the individual needs of students. Valencia Tutors Learning Center is a WASC and NCAA accredited institution, committed to the highest level of instruction. We have been serving the Santa Clarita Valley for over a decade and strive to be an educational leader in comprehensive solutions to education. Our summer offerings include Hart District approved courses for credits, college essay SAT/ACT prep, as well as elementary, junior high and high school readiness programs, each designed with current curriculum standards. Our educators hold graduate level degrees as well as credentials in high school counseling, resource services, single and multiple subject education, administration, occupational therapy and speech/language pathology. Summer is a great time to rethink, redirect and retool academic efforts. Better grades begin this summer. For more details, visit www.valenciaeducators.com

EYE ON EDUCATION â&#x20AC;˘

3 TECHNIQUES TO HELP KIDS CONCENTRATE

lassrooms are now vastly different from the ones today’s parents were accustomed to when they were children. Technology has changed the face of classrooms, and while digital classrooms have revolutionized the ways kids learn, they also can make it more difficult for students to concentrate. Computers, tablets and smartphones can be invaluable resources for teachers and students. But when such devices compromise a student’s ability to concentrate, parents may need to embrace various techniques aimed at improving kids’ ability to concentrate.

1. DISCOURAGE PERSONAL DEVICES IN THE CLASSROOM

Computers and tablets can expand learning opportunities in the classroom, but parents who want their kids to focus on lessons can discourage the use of personal devices, such as smartphones or personal tablets, in the classroom. As noted by the Child Mind¨ Institute, apps and web content are designed to be user-friendly and addictive. In addition, modern youngsters socialize through their smartphones. Alerts or messages from social media apps or friends can distract kids from their lessons, which may adversely affect their academic performance. Unless teachers ask students to bring their personal devices to class, parents can discourage, if not restrict, their children to bring their smartphones or tablets with them to class.

22 • EYE ON EDUCATION

2. LIMIT MULTITASKING

A 2009 study from researchers at Stanford University found that heavy media multitaskers were more susceptible to interference from irrelevant environmental stimuli and from irrelevant representations in memory than light media multitaskers. Students who try to do too much at once may think they’re getting a lot done, but dividing their attention among several subjects may make it harder for them to fully understand or learn their class lessons. When studying, students who concentrate on one subject or task may understand materials more fluently than those who divide their attention among subjects or those who focus on studying while also performing other tasks.

3. ENCOURAGE STRATEGIC BREAKS

The Academic Success Center at Oregon State University notes that taking breaks can improve concentration and make studying more efficient and effective. When taking study breaks, students should set time limits on their breaks and change their scenery. Walking away from a book, device or computer screen for 10 minutes can help students avoid fatigue that can develop when they study for too long without a break. That fatigue can affect students’ ability to absorb the lessons they’re trying to learn, so parents can encourage students to take strategic breaks. Once per hour might be enough, but some students may benefit from more frequent breaks. The competition for kid’s attention in the classroom is greater than ever before. As a result, parents may need to encourage their children to embrace various strategies that can improve their concentration. (MC) 

Our Philosophy Grounded in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Behavioral Learning Center (BLC) improves socially significant skills for individuals living with developmental challenges. Working with caregivers, BLC strives to provide learning experiences that will benefit families long after services have ended. We are committed to the philosophy that learning occurs across a lifetime. Our Services • Adaptive Skills • Behavior Modification • Applied Behavior Analysis • Parent Education • Social Skills • Counseling We are a provider with the North Los Angeles Regional Center. BLC is in network with multiple commercial insurance plans, as well as medi-cal managed care providers. Please contact us directly at insurance@blcca.com or call one of our offices to confirm we accept your plan.

www.blcca.com Questions? Email us at info@blcca.com or call us at 661-254-7086

EYE ON EDUCATION •

HOW TO INSPIRE YOUR TEEN TO EXPAND THEIR HORIZONS AND FIND THEIR PASSION

ith mounting pressures and expectations, the high school years can feel overwhelming - for students and parents alike. Teens grapple with questions like: Which colleges should I apply to? What should I choose as a major? What do I really want to do with my life? What if I don’t have a clue? As a parent you naturally want to give advice and steer them in the right direction, but you also know it’s a tricky balance. It’s their life, after all, as they’ll often remind you. So how can you help? Encourage them to explore different interests, with no strings attached. Look for activities beyond the usual choices. Research extracurricular programs at your school, in your community, even overseas so they can see the breadth of what’s out there. Expose them to a range of possibilities and see what they pick. Does your teen already have a clear focus? Look for innovative programs that allow them to dig even deeper in real-world settings. Or maybe your son or daughter is shy or stuck in a rut and needs a gentle nudge to try something new? It’s amazing how a change of scenery can inspire students and tap hidden talents. Over time they’ll gravitate toward one thing or another, and the journey will be rich with self-discovery. From local to global, there are many valuable

paths that help spark new interests while building self-knowledge, confidence and 21st century skills along the way. Global clubs and activities spark interest in the world at large. Most high schools offer a range of extracurricular opportunities to get involved in a topic of interest or try out something new, from sports and theater to robotics and debate. Many offer programs with an international theme as well. After-school language clubs provide a chance to practice conversational skills in a relaxed environment while joining in cooking and other cultural activities. And bonding with other language enthusiasts inspires many to want to travel to experience different cultures first-hand! Larger high schools offer more languages, from French, Spanish and German to Mandarin, Arabic and Japanese, while teens with more limited offerings can often find regional programs a bus ride away. Model UN is another valuable program that teaches students about the world around them, and builds confidence as well as leadership and communication skills. A new activity picked up on a whim may turn into a lifetime source of joy or even a career. If options are limited at school, branch out. Urge your teen to get involved in the local community, meet new people, and bond with others who share similar interests. They’ll see what’s out there in the bigger world while

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demonstrating to colleges and employers that they’re engaged beyond the standard classroom requirements. Service programs help teens gain valuable perspective. When teens offer their time and talent to nonprofits and worthy causes, they gain more than just real-world experience for their college resumes. They gain maturity, perspective, practical skills and a greater appreciation for what they’ve got. Volunteering can be customized to one’s own interests, whether it means walking dogs at an animal shelter or building a website for an environmental group. Adventurous students can take it one step further by participating in service programs abroad. Whether working to raise social awareness, lending a hand with environmental and conservation project, or mentoring underprivileged youth, teens grow exponentially during a summer far away from their usual routine. Study abroad transforms the way a teen looks at fields of study - and life Studying abroad is not just for college. More and more high school students are making the leap overseas for summer programs or for a semester or gap year. As many students, parents and guidance counselors have discovered, this is an opportune time to develop valuable lifelong skills, learn a new language and discover career interests in a way that is not possible in an everyday classroom

environment. Perhaps the ultimate opportunity for personal growth, studying abroad also expands communication skills and helps students understand different cultures and ways of living. Not sure study abroad has crossed your teen’s mind? Surf the web together for resources and get on mailing lists for brochures. CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange), a nonprofit that operates high school study abroad programs in more than 30 global destinations, is a good place to start. Transported to a world far different from their own, teens find themselves fully immersed in a new topic and a foreign culture. Programs range from three weeks in the summer to a full semester or academic year. Planning ahead is key. By involving a teacher or counselor in the discussion early on, you’ll ensure a smooth transition to and from the study abroad experience. It also gives you more time to plan finances and research scholarships to make the opportunity possible. Do your research sooner rather than later: Organizations like CIEE offer scholarships based on merit and financial considerations, but be sure to check the application deadlines so you don’t miss out. To learn more about CIEE’s Global Navigator High School Study Abroad program and available scholarships, visit ciee.org/globalnavigators. (BPT) 

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ath is an important subject and school and proficiency in arithmetic serves people well when it comes time to leave the classroom and enter the workforce. As demand for workers proficient in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics continues to grow, students can benefit by working as hard as possible when studying such subjects. People with strong math skills who thrive on data and crunching numbers may find a diverse array of jobs available to them when they are ready to enter the workforce. The following are just some of the positions that require math skills, courtesy of the Occupational Information Network, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and CareerCast. ECONOMIST: Economists study and analyze the effects of resources on costs and their relation to industry and government. ACCOUNTANT: Accountants are responsible for keeping accounting records and preparing financial statements for businesses or individuals. GAME DESIGNER: Mathematics is involved in game theory, and programmers regularly utilize trigonometry, physics and calculus. The same can be said for movie or television animators. STOCKBROKER: Stockbrokers purchase and sell stocks, bonds and other securities. Exchanging large sums of money involves a strong command of math. CHEMIST: Chemists conduct analyses and experiments in laboratories that require qualitative and quantitative computation.

ENGINEER: Mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering and civil engineer go hand-in-hand with math. Engineers in various fields perform a host of tasks, including designing equipment and evaluating the adaptability of materials. PILOT: Navigating, calculating wind speeds and fuel ration and much more are involved in piloting an aircraft. Math skills can be life-saving when pilots have to make adjustments and calculations thousands of feet in the air. SPORTS BROADCASTER: Math is involved in many aspects of sports. Sports broadcasters often must add up statistics on the fly and proficiency in math makes that easier. ASTRONOMER: Observing, researching and interpreting astronomical phenomena requires a strong understanding of mathematics. INSURANCE UNDERWRITER: Underwriters rely on math to assess risk as they make recommendations to insurance companies before such companies will issue policies. FINANCIAL PLANNER: Financial planners help businesses and individuals map out the ways to grow their money so they can secure their financial futures. ACTUARY: Actuaries measure risk and uncertainty as they evaluate the likelihood of future events occurring as they apply to certain areas, including insurance and pension programs. Strong math skills can provide an entryway into a lucrative and stable career. (MC) ď Ž

26 â&#x20AC;˘ EYE ON EDUCATION

MUSIC LESSONS for all ages, levels, and instruments

Call today to learn more about our music programs and schedule a FREE consultation!

661-222-2239 28306 Constellation Rd. Valencia, CA 91355 LittleSchoolofMusic.com EYE ON EDUCATION â&#x20AC;¢

EMPOWERING THE LEARNERS OF TODAY FOR THE CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF TOMORROW “Castaic Union School District teaches our students how to think, not what to think."

-Castaic Parent

We are now enrolling for the 2018-2019 school year. Contact us today to learn about our strong academic and enrichment programs: STEM • Music • Makerspaces Career Pathways • Innovative Technology Visual and Performing Arts

School tours available upon request.

Castaic Union School District Preschool through Eighth Grade

28131 Livingston Avenue Valencia, CA 91355 ( 661) 257-4500 info@castaicusd.com www.castaicusd.com @castaicunionschooldistrict @castaicusd

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