To help students overcome the challenge of paying for college, Moorpark College, Oxnard College, Ventura College and Ventura College East Campus are holding free Cash 4 College workshops via Zoom. A workshop will be held on Feb. 6 and Feb. 20, and students can drop in anytime during the session (details below). Bilingual financial aid staff will assist students in completing applications for the 2021-2022 school-year FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) or the California Dream Act Application (CADAA). The workshops are free and open to the community; people may attend a workshop on either date.

Advanced registration is preferred. For more information, visit vcccd.edu/cash4college

Moorpark College, Oxnard College, Ventura College and Ventura College East Campus
Saturday, February 6
Saturday, February 20
9 a.m. to noon
Zoom link: http://bit.ly/C4Cspring21
Join from PC, Mac, Linux, iOS or Android

Please contact your college’s financial aid office with any questions.
Moorpark College Financial Aid Office Phone:
(805) 378-1462
Email: mcfa@vcccd.edu

Oxnard College Financial Aid Office Phone:
(805) 678-5828
Email: ocfinaid@vcccd.edu

Ventura College Financial Aid Office Phone:
(805) 289-6369
Email: vcfinancialaid@vcccd.edu

Ventura College East Campus Financial Aid Office Phone:
(805) 289-6574
Email: wendolyne_lopez1@vcccd.edu

About Ventura County Community College District
The Ventura County Community College District is a member of the 116-campus California Community College system and serves approximately 31,000 students annually. The District's three colleges--Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura--offer programs in general education for degrees and certificates, transfer to four-year colleges and universities, career technical education and provide opportunities to engage in co-curricular campus activities. For more information, visit www.vcccd.edu.

 


 
The Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund Scholarship program awarded a total of $23,500 to student recipients

The Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) recently recognized 14 graduating high school seniors and college students for their academic achievements and pursuits with Rodney Fernandez Leadership Fund (RFLF) Scholarships.

The RFLF was created in 2011 and honors the legacy of Rodney Fernandez, Cabrillo EDC’s founder and Executive Director for 30 years (1981–2011). The scholarship continues Fernandez’s legacy of community building by cultivating the leadership of residents to attain their goals and empower themselves to take action to improve the quality of life in their communities.

“This scholarship opened up the doors for me to do what I love,” said Alexa Gruener, student recipient of the RFLF Scholarship. “As a freshman in college, this scholarship has helped me pay my tuition for both semesters, allowing me to take on fewer work hours and thus seek out research and internship opportunities. Currently, I am volunteering at Westminster Free Clinic and working for the Boston University Medical School's MANOS project, which does research on chronic kidney diseases in field workers from Central America.”

The RFLF Scholarship awarded a total of $23,500 to its recipients, with $10,000 provided by Edison International (Southern California Edison), $10,000 provided by MUFG Union Bank, and $3,000 from individual donations. The Edison International funds are divided among students with STEM majors, while Union Bank and individual donations are divided among students of any major.

“This award has helped me financially to continue my undergrad education at UCSB,” said RFLF Scholarship recipient Denise Castro. “My goal is to become an international teacher and contribute to educational reform so that every student has a chance to receive a quality education and a mentor who believes in their potential to succeed. I am immensely grateful for the financial support because now I am one step closer to achieving my career goals.”

“I am continuously in awe of each of our scholarship recipients’ passion, commitment, and determination for learning and higher education, said Margarita H. de Escontrias, Chief Executive Officer at Cabrillo EDC. “With Cabrillo EDC’s community-building mission, we are always delighted to help make an impact and support the goals of our youth, and we look forward to seeing all that they will accomplish. “

Applications for 2021 recipients are now open for Ventura County low-income student residents, with Cabrillo EDC residents given priority. To apply, visit https://bit.ly/3oLj9Gc

To learn more or to donate to the RFLF Scholarship fund, please visit https://bit.ly/35E52Lq

 


 

Ventura College’s new degree program in advanced manufacturing is training the future manufacturing workers of Ventura County. Prompted by student interest, employer demand and Ventura County’s strength as a manufacturing sector, Ventura College’s new manufacturing training program will offer the latest information and technology in both lecture and laboratory settings.

Ventura College’s advanced manufacturing degree program offers an associate degree, certificates of achievement, pre-apprenticeships and a Journeyman Machinist program.

It’s a good time for students to get jobs in manufacturing, as the country looks to bring jobs back to the U.S. While learning on the job may have been sufficient in the past, local employers value the streamlined hiring and training process of having entry-level employees who can jump right in. This is particularly important in Ventura County, where manufacturing has been identified by the Economic Development Collaborative as one of six key industries.

“One of the reasons this program is so advantageous is because it trains our local residents to work in an industry where there are high paying jobs in Ventura County,” said John Clark, instructor in the manufacturing technology program. “Our graduates will be able to live here, work here and support their families.”

The advanced manufacturing program aims to prepare students to be career-ready by training them on full-size, industry-worthy CNC machines, which mirror the machines used in the workplace. Students already in the industry can take classes to expand or update their skills for career advancement. Students may also choose to pursue the AS in Advanced Manufacturing to launch their career in industry or transfer to a university to obtain a bachelor’s degree in management, engineering, industrial technology, agricultural engineering or mechanical engineering.

The advanced manufacturing program offers a pre-apprenticeship option to give students real-world experience while providing employers an opportunity to find skilled workers. The goal of the pre-apprenticeship program is to take a student with no knowledge of manufacturing and train them to be capable CNC machine operators in just one semester.

After taking two classes, MT V02 and MT V05, students are eligible to participate in VC’s apprenticeship program and earn approximately $18 an hour. In contrast, the state’s minimum wage is $13-$14 per hour, depending on company size.

For two and a half years, the student will work full-time in local industry to receive on-the-job training while taking at least one class per semester at Ventura College. In just three years, a student will earn a Journeyman Machinist Card from the U.S. Department of Labor, which can transfer anywhere in the U.S. Following program completion, the student may earn $25-$30 per hour.

Ventura College plans to offer two certificates of achievement in manufacturing technology, including CNC Machine Operation and CNC Machinist. The two stackable certificates are pending state approval. The first can be completed in one semester.

To learn more, visit: https://www.venturacollege.edu/departments/academic/manufacturing-techno...

About Ventura College
Ventura College, the first institution of higher education in Ventura County, has provided quality education to the community since 1925. A designated Hispanic Serving Institution, the college enrolls over 13,000 students each semester at two campuses. VC offers over 70 disciplines of study in STEM fields, business, the arts, education, social/behavioral sciences, liberal arts and the health sciences. Named one of the nation’s top 150 community colleges by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program, it is the largest provider of workforce participants in the county in manufacturing, automotive technology and nursing. To learn more, visit VenturaCollege.edu.

 

The November 10, 2020 Ventura County Community College District Board Meeting agenda has been released and is available as follows:

Agenda: BoardDocs: http://go.boarddocs.com/ca/vcccd/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=BUET9E76436C
Meeting date: Tuesday, November 10, 2020
Meeting time: Closed Session 5:00 p.m.
Open Session 6:00 p.m.
Location: Ventura County Community College District
District Administrative Center
761 East Daily Drive, Thomas Lakin Boardroom
Camarillo, CA

Please note: The Board Meeting will be livestreamed. Please follow this link to view:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXd5o60QwjR0JtRZpvYTWig

Public comments should be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on November 9, 2020 to the Clerk of the Board at boardoftrusteesclerk@vcccd.edu. In the subject line, please indicate the Agenda Item Number or note "General Comments" if you are not speaking about a specific item. Your comments will be read by the Board of Trustees Chair for the record. Every effort will be made to read your comments, no more than 250 words, into the record; however, some comments may not be read due to time limitations.

You may provide public comments in person, via Zoom. Please email Clerk of the Board at boardoftrusteesclerk@vcccd.edu for meeting instructions.

Pursuant to the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need any special accommodation or assistance to attend or participate in the meeting, please direct your written request, as far in advance of the meeting as possible, to the Office of Chancellor, VCCCD, 761 East Daily Drive, Suite 200, Camarillo, CA 93010.

 
Beatriz Zizumbo
Beatriz Zizumbo

Written By Lauren Rosenthal

Beatriz Zizumbo has come a long way from her days as a sewing machine operator in Santa Paula. Just 18 years old at the time, she was a new mom who didn’t speak English and had recently relocated from Michoacán, Mexico.

Today, Zizumbo is an academic counselor at Ventura College East Campus (VCEC), where she helps students find their career paths and provides them with tools and resources for academic success.

“My counseling position provides me the opportunity to know the students at a different level. I learn about their families, their dreams and their challenges, and they allow me to be part of their lives to guide them and provide resources to help them accomplish their goals. I see my job as an opportunity to help others achieve a dream job just the way I was helped,” said Zizumbo, who is a first-generation college student.

The path to where Zizumbo is today started with the idea that while she didn’t know what career she wanted, she was certain her future did not lie in sewing.

After two years at the sewing factory, she was ready for her next challenge: higher education. She enrolled at Ventura College East Campus and graduated in 2001 with an associate degree in accounting.

But Zizumbo wasn’t done. It turns out that she loved school. She continued on to California State University, Channel Islands, where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in Spanish with minors in Chicano studies and business.

After 19 years of pursuing her academic goals, she received her master’s degree in counseling and guidance from California Lutheran University. Though it wasn’t easy juggling the demands of school, work and her family, her persistence and determination to reach her fullest potential paid off.

“After every degree I felt that was the end of the road for me, but there were always people along the way who supported, encouraged and challenged me to continue my education. That is the reason I feel passionate about my job, because I want others to have that support and encouragement to continue their education,” said Zizumbo, who has worked for the Ventura County Community College District for almost 23 years, starting as a student worker.

While she could’ve pursued any career path she wanted, Zizumbo chose a career where she could give back to the community that once encouraged her to pursue her dreams.

Zizumbo is living out her dream, she said. After years of hard work and dedication, she has a job that satisfies her desire to give back and that allows her to focus on her family.

Aside from her work at VCEC, her main hobby is to “watch my boys and husband play soccer and to live a simple life.”

If you would like more information about the academic counseling at VCEC, visit venturacollege.edu/departments/student-services/counseling or call (805) 525-7136 or (805) 289-6448.

Lauren Rosenthal, a Moorpark College student and student worker with the Ventura County Community College District.

 
Program will provide a fast pathway for students to obtain in-demand and high-paying jobs

Oxnard College has established a new Cybersecurity Program that provides graduates with a certificate approved by the California Community Colleges’ State Chancellor’s Office. Starting with the spring 2021 semester, the program will train students to help protect computer networks from internal and external attacks and properly respond to security breaches that inevitably occur, paving the way to lucrative and in-demand career options. Eligible full-time students can attend the program tuition-free by utilizing the Oxnard College Promise Program.

“Oxnard College is proud to launch our new Cybersecurity Program,” shared Luis Sanchez, president of Oxnard College. “This program will train students for high-paying jobs that are available now. There is a shortage of cybersecurity professionals not only in our region but all over the globe, and this training will help our graduates build secure and comfortable lives for themselves and their families.”

The salary range for a cybersecurity analyst is $57,810 to $158,860 with a median annual wage of $99,730, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC)² stated that in order to meet the needs of America’s fast-growing businesses, the cybersecurity workforce will need to increase by 62 percent, meaning the job market for this field will continue to expand with workers being in high demand ((ISC)² Cybersecurity Workforce Study 2019).

The program’s curriculum was developed in partnership with an advisory council of networking and cybersecurity professionals who were intent on providing students with hands-on training and interdisciplinary expertise.

“Now more than ever, organizations and businesses need help protecting their infrastructure and digital assets,” said Alex Lynch, professor of computer networking/IT at Oxnard College. “We at Oxnard College want to equip cybersecurity trainees with the certifications we know are valued in the industry and which will help fill the increasing need companies have to protect their networks and data. This program is streamlined to help students train for cybersecurity careers in a reasonably short timeframe while learning the essential skills of the cybersecurity industry.”

The new certificate program consists of a foundation-level course that covers essential computer networking/IT skills, such as learning Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+, followed by courses mapped to specific cybersecurity certifications such as CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA PenTest+. In these courses, students will learn how to guard computer networking systems against internal and external threats while gaining hands-on experience configuring firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems and virtual private networks (VPNs). In the program’s PenTest+ course, students will learn how to identify and exploit vulnerabilities so they can be patched before a hacker has the opportunity to cause a security breach. This specific skillset is called “white hat” or “ethical hacking,” and it prepares students for a job as a cybersecurity penetration tester.

For more information regarding cybersecurity careers and salaries, visit:

1. https://www.comptia.org/blog/your-next-move-security-analyst

2. https://www.cyberseek.org/heatmap.html

3. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-...

Open registration for the spring semester at Oxnard College starts Nov. 19, and classes begin Jan. 11, 2021. For information regarding Oxnard College’s new Cybersecurity Program and courses offered, visit the program’s website or contact Professor Alex Lynch at alynch@vcccd.edu or (805) 678-5061.

About Oxnard College
Oxnard College is one of three colleges in the Ventura County Community College District and annually serves more than 7,000 students. Founded in 1975, Oxnard College is fully accredited and has been ranked the 4th Best Community College in California. It is also a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution. Oxnard College’s signature programs include marine biology; culinary arts, restaurant management and hospitality management; auto technology and fire technology, among many other undergraduate study and career technical education programs. The Dream Resource Center is a valuable student and community resource. Oxnard College’s dental hygiene program has a 100% pass rate on national and board exams. To learn more, visit oxnardcollege.edu and Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.

 

To commemorate Ventura College's 95th anniversary this year, the Ventura College Foundation has created a new web page where alumni, employees, and friends of the community can share their college years' stories and photos. The collected memories will then be used as part of Ventura College's 100th celebration in 2025.

Ventura College began in 1925 and was the first institution of higher learning in the county. Since its inception, Ventura College has been driven to provide high-quality and affordable instruction and services to community members. Today, it serves over 13,000 students each semester.

To ensure the health and safety of the public, and to allow opportunities for greater community participation, in-person celebrations for Ventura College’s 95th anniversary have pivoted to online platforms this year due to COVID-19. In addition to the virtual event arrangements, the college decided to jumpstart plans for the 2025 centennial commemoration.

“We are excited to hear how Ventura College has impacted, influenced or changed your life or the life of someone you know,” says Ventura College President Kim Hoffmans. “If you started your athletic career at VC, for example, or if you have several generations of Ventura College students in your family, we can’t wait to hear your stories and see your photos.”

The Ventura College Foundation's web page, Ventura College 100th (https://venturacollegefoundation.org/venturacollege100th) is where the community can upload Ventura College memories and images, and make donations that will go toward the college's centennial celebration.

The collected remembrances may be added to the college's historical archives, used for videos, website, social media or other marketing materials for Ventura College.

About Ventura College
Ventura College, the first institution of higher education in Ventura County, has provided quality education to the community since 1925. A designated Hispanic Serving Institution, the college enrolls over 13,000 students each semester at two campuses. VC offers over 70 disciplines of study in STEM fields, business, the arts, education, social/behavioral sciences, liberal arts and the health sciences. Named one of the nation’s top 150 community colleges by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program, it is the largest provider of workforce participants in the county in manufacturing, automotive technology and nursing. To learn more, visit VenturaCollege.edu.

About Ventura College Foundation
Established in 1983, the Ventura College Foundation transforms students’ lives through education by providing innovative and vital resources and financial support. The Foundation collaborates with Ventura College to enhance human potential, civic engagement, careers, and academic success of students enabling their effective impact and legacy on the college, local workforce, and our community. The Foundation also hosts the Ventura College Foundation Marketplace, an outdoor shopping experience held every weekend on the Ventura College campus parking lot. For more information, contact Julie Harvey at (805) 289-6502 or jharvey@vcccd.edu or visit www.VenturaCollegeFoundation.org.

 

Estefania Olivares was named to Biola University's Dean's List for academic excellence.

Olivares from Fillmore CA was one of approximately 1,500 students who were named to the dean's list in spring 2020. Biola students are placed on the dean's list to honor those with a GPA of 3.6 or higher while enrolled in 12 or more credits and whose cumulative GPA is at least 3.2.

"Inclusion in Biola University's Dean's List is reserved for students who demonstrate exceptional performance in their academic studies. This honor signifies hard work, engagement, and investment in scholarship," said Tamara Anderson, Associate Provost of Academic Effectiveness and Administration. "These attributes are the building blocks of continued success, not only in the classroom, but in the workplace and in the student's personal lives. We celebrate these students and their achievement, looking forward to their future accomplishments."

Biola University is a nationally ranked Christian university in the heart of Southern California. It was recently recognized as one of America's best colleges, earning a spot in the top tier of the "best national universities" category of U.S. News and World Report's Best Colleges 2021 rankings. Founded in 1908, Biola is committed to the mission of biblically centered education, scholarship and service - equipping men and women in mind and character to impact the world for the Lord Jesus Christ. With more than 6,000 students at its Southern California campus and around the world, Biola's nine schools offer more than 150 academic programs at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels. For more information, visit biola.edu or call (562) 777-4061.

 
Fillmore Unified School District student Tina Chea, a 2nd grader at Rio Vista Elementary, learning from home in Mrs. Harbert's distance learning class.
Fillmore Unified School District student Tina Chea, a 2nd grader at Rio Vista Elementary, learning from home in Mrs. Harbert's distance learning class.
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Job Ready Alumni Forum Series to Highlight CTE Programs

Moorpark, Calif. (August 21, 2020) – The Moorpark College Foundation is pleased to announce its first Job Ready Alumni Forum at 6 p.m., on Sept, 2. This first hour-long panel discussion with questions and answers will focus on the Moorpark College Nursing program.

The Moorpark College Foundation Job Ready Alumni Forum is an open discussion on how alumni found their way to Moorpark College and how the college positioned them for transfer to a four-year university and/or workforce preparation.

It explores the relationships that exist between Moorpark College and local industries and how these relationships help students transition into the workforce. The intended audience is current students, returning adult-learners in career transition or members of the community.

The forum will be hosted by Moorpark College Nursing Coordinator, Christina Lee, and will be delivered via Zoom webinar. Panelist for this first Job Ready Alumni Forum will be:

Kathy Trigueiro, Los Robles Hospital, Market Director of Clinical Professional Development.

Gabriel Guillen, RN Coordinator, Palliative Care at Dignity Health - Gabriel graduated from the nursing program at Moorpark College in 2009 with his RN degree and later transferred to CSU Channel Islands for his Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN)

Alisha Taylor RN, BS – Alisha graduated from Moorpark College School of Nursing in 2004 and has worked through different clinical experiences at many of the local hospitals in the Intensive Care Unit and the Emergency Room in Ventura County.

“We’re excited to offer this first Job Ready Alumni Forum in Nursing,” said John Loprieno, Interim Director of Institutional Advancement, Public Relations, and Marketing. “The Nursing students at Moorpark College have a 95% pass rate on the National Nursing Exam and so many of our alumni are on the front line right now in our community with the Covid-19 crisis. This forum will both inform our students and community about the job placement process within our Nursing program as well as celebrate the work that Moorpark College alumni are doing in healthcare in our community."

Future Forums will feature discussions on one of the 23 other Career Education programs available at Moorpark College. The Moorpark College Foundation is proud to sponsor this first event of our Job Ready Alumni Forum series.

Registration for the free Moorpark College Job Ready Alumni Forum can be found at
https://cccconfer.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_DymCD_CFR-Wh3nrqJe5ykg

If you would like more information on the Alumni Forum on Nursing event or the Moorpark College Foundation please call (805) 378-1469 or by emailing mcinfo@vcccd.edu

About Moorpark College The Moorpark College Foundation is a not-for-profit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) corporation that accepts and solicits gifts, donations, trusts, and bequests for college-related use. It provides taxdeductible advantages to the donor. It also provides a method for the college to interact with businesses, government, and other nonprofit agencies in the broader Southern California community and provides hundreds of students with the financial assistance, recognition and encouragement needed to realize their academic goals. This spring alone, more than $160,000 was awarded to 245 students. To learn more, visit MoorparkCollege.edu or follow @MoorparkCollege on social media.

 
FHS Class of 2020 Billboards
FHS Class of 2020 Billboards
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We take pride in our community pulling together in support of our graduating students. We would like to thank our Alumni and community members of Fillmore who contributed to the billboards entering the East and West sides of town. Donations by Todd & Chrissy Schieferle, Judy Martin Towner, Sherri & Dave Wright, Dena & J.T. Wyand, Keith & Sandy Gurrola, Lori & Bobby McLain, Lucy Rangel, Tracie & Jerry Davis, John & Julia Wilbur, David & Susan Dollar, Fillmore High Athletic Boosters, The Fillmore High Alumni Association, and Bob & Trisha Gradias.
Thank you,
Mark Ortega
Fillmore High Alumni President

 

VCCCD is going to make our over 5,000 students who are graduating next week feel special and hope that you’ll help us celebrate them. On Saturday, Ventura College East Campus will hold a “Grad Drive Thru” event for students to pick up a congratulatory lawn sign (pictured above) and 2020 commemorative tassel. The details for VCEC are below.

Moorpark College
Saturday, May 9, 11am-1pm
7075 Campus Road, Moorpark
Pick Up location: Parking Lot D (Observatory Lot)

Oxnard College
Saturday, May 9, 12-2pm
4000 South Rose Ave., Oxnard
Pick Up location: In front of the Admin Building, entering Parking lot G.
Oxnard College has 31 volunteers that will be at the event (6ft apart) and they will have balloons, music, bells, whistles!

Ventura College
Saturday, May 9, 11am-1pm
4667 Telegraph Rd, Ventura
Pick Up location: South Campus Way, the one-way road which is north of Telegraph Rd and east of the parking lot labeled as A-Lot on the campus map.

Ventura College East Campus
Saturday, May 9, 11am-1pm
957 Faulkner Road #106, Santa Paula
Pick Up location: Main parking lot of East Campus off Faulkner Road

Quantities are limited, as we purchased the same number of signs/tassels as the number of graduates we usually see participate in our annual on-ground ceremony. Items will be given away on a first-come, first-served basis.

NOTE: This is a drive thru event. We ask that students remain in their cars as we practice safe, social distancing.

About Ventura County Community College District
The Ventura County Community College District is a member of the 115-campus California Community College system, and serves more than 32,000 students annually. The District’s three colleges--Moorpark, Oxnard, and Ventura--offer programs in general education for degrees and certificates, transfer to four-year colleges and universities, career technical education, and provide opportunities to engage in co-curricular campus activities. For more information, please visit vcccd.edu.

 
Fillmore Unified School District
Fillmore Unified School District

Resolution 19-20-15 Staff Appreciation Week
The Governing Board approved of Staff Appreciation Week.

Approve Bid for E-Rate Year 23 (FY 7/01/2020 - 6/30/2021), Category 2 for Network Equipment
The Governing Board approved and awarded the bid for network electronic equipment districtwide to the lowest
qualified bidder, AAA Network Solutions, Inc.

Approve School Plans for Student Achievement (SPSA)
The Governing Board approved the School Plans for Student Achievement.

Approve Change Orders #1-2 for Fillmore High School Existing CTE Building Demolition and CTE New
Building Construction Project, 555 Central Avenue, Fillmore, CA 93015, Project 2020-003
The Governing Board approved Change Orders #1-2.

Adoption of Resolution 19-20-16 for Approval of Award of Contract to Scott & Sons Electric for Certain
Additional Work at Fillmore High School Electrical Yard Infrastructure Upgrade
The Governing Board approved Resolution 19-20-16.

Approve Amendment No. 3 to Employment Agreement with Dr. Adrian Palazuelos
The Governing Board approved Amendment No. 3 to Employment Agreement with Dr. Adrian Palazuelos

Personnel Recommendations
The Board approved all personnel recommendations including new hires, promotions, resignations, and leaves.

Temporary Procedures for Virtual Public Participation in School Board Meetings
Temporary procedures for virtual public participation in FUSD school board meetings will be held until further notice.

Approve the 2020-2021 School Calendar
The Board approved of the 2020-2021 school calendar for the upcoming school year.

 

The economic fallout of the COVID-19 crisis is impacting local nonprofit community organizations in unforeseen ways. One of those affected is the Ventura College Foundation. The foundation's operating expenses are funded almost entirely from proceeds generated by its Ventura College Weekend Marketplace on the Ventura College campus. With the Marketplace closed until large gathering restrictions are lifted, funds to keep the foundation running are drying up.

To help cover operating expenses until the crisis is over and in conjunction with Giving Tuesday Now, a global day of giving and unity on May 5, the Ventura College Foundation is launching an urgent fundraising campaign, "Stronger Foundation, Stronger Future."

Income from the Marketplace has paid the operating costs of the Ventura College Foundation for 35 years. "With the Marketplace shut down and little income coming in, we've had to drastically reduce our professional staff while still trying to keep our student support programs running," says Anne Paul King, executive director of the foundation. "We are in crisis mode."

If the foundation offices were to close, there would be no staff to oversee the $24 million in endowment investments, the more than $650,000 in annual scholarship awards ($683,748 was distributed earlier this month, the most in foundation history) and numerous other student support programs. In 2019, nearly 6,000 students were served by the foundation including 248 scholarship recipients and nearly 4,500 students who checked out textbooks from the foundation's lending library.

"About 70 percent of Ventura College students can't attend school full time so they don't qualify for the state-sponsored tuition-free schooling program, the VC Promise. They rely on foundation scholarships, financial aid and our textbook support programs so they can afford to stay in school," says King.

King says the foundation is reaching out to Ventura College Foundation supporters, alumni and community members for donations. Foundation board members and staff have already pledged $30,000 through a leadership giving challenge.

"Just like everyone, we want to see an end to this crisis as soon as it’s safely possible. We are working hard on fundraising to sustain the foundation until the Marketplace reopens," says Rob van Nieuwburg, Ventura College Foundation board chair. "Change isn't always easy. The board has approved a new policy where we are not relying primarily on Marketplace revenue to operate. A 10 percent operations sustainability gift will be applied to all future donations to ensure a stronger foundation for a stronger future of service to our students."

For questions about "Stronger Foundation, Stronger Future" or to make a tax-deductible donation, contact King at 805-289-6503, aking@vcccd.edu. More information can be found at www.VenturaCollegeFoundation.org.

Established in 1983, the Ventura College Foundation provides financial support to the students and the programs of Ventura College to facilitate student success and grow the impact and legacy of Ventura College as a vital community asset. The Foundation also hosts the Ventura College Foundation Marketplace; an outdoor shopping experience held every weekend on the Ventura College campus east parking lot. For more information, contact Julie Harvey at (805) 289-6502 or jharvey@vcccd.edu or visit www.VenturaCollegeFoundation.org

 
Congratulations to Timmy on his selection for our February Student of the Month. Timmy enjoys hiking and playing video games. He is very smart, has a strong mindset and is interested in Aerospace Engineering. Timmy’s five-year plan is to be an intern as an aerospace engineer. His ten-year plan is to be working for the government on new technology. Some of the things he likes about Sierra High School are the connections with teachers and he has gained confidence.
Congratulations to Timmy on his selection for our February Student of the Month. Timmy enjoys hiking and playing video games. He is very smart, has a strong mindset and is interested in Aerospace Engineering. Timmy’s five-year plan is to be an intern as an aerospace engineer. His ten-year plan is to be working for the government on new technology. Some of the things he likes about Sierra High School are the connections with teachers and he has gained confidence.
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Halloween is coming—in March!

There will be plenty of “spooky science” at the 11th Annual CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Science Carnival set for Saturday, March 7 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Rio Vista Middle School at 3050 Thames River Drive in Oxnard.

The Science Carnival was originally scheduled for Nov. 2, 2019, but the fires of late October required that it get rescheduled for March of 2020.

Science Carnival organizer and founder Phil Hampton, Ph.D. wanted to recreate everything the kids would have experienced — including Halloween.

“Science Carnival is usually a spooky science kind of event normally held around Halloween,” Hampton said. “There were so many people who came on the night of the Science Carnival in November of 2019 and kids who were disappointed to learn it had been cancelled, so we’re reinventing this well-loved event as Halloween in March.”

Kids can come in costume and there will be plenty of creepy, gooey, deliciously gross exhibits to pique kids’ interest in science such as screaming Gummi bears; do-it-yourself glow-in-the-dark slime; and Moorpark College Chemistry will be running an activity where kids learn how a substance derived from algae can be used to make slimy worms.

Also on display will be the always-popular air-powered marshmallow shooters, Flubber and Oobleck (the goop in the Dr. Seuss book “Bartholomew and the Oobleck.”).

The 120 exhibits are designed to delight and intrigue pre-K through 8th grade guests and their families, but at the heart of the carnival is the hope that kids develop an interest in some form of science, technology, engineering and math that makes them want to continue exploring the field.

“My goal is to let kids experience the wonder and love of science in a fun environment where both the kids and parents can see the mystery, awe and wonder in science and be inspired,” Hampton said. “Hopefully they consider science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) as a potential future for their kids.”

The exhibits are staffed by CSUCI volunteers as well as volunteers from other partner groups such as all three community colleges; the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Paula and Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme; all three commands from Naval Base Ventura County; Sunny Smiles Dentistry (with a toothbrush robot!); Pacifica High School Physics and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers who will show kids how to create their own simple motor.

Families from Santa Barbara are also encouraged to attend. The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and MOXI, the Wolf Museum of Exploration & Innovation in Santa Barbara, will also set up displays.

The event is free and open to the public and usually draws almost 3,000 kids and parents. Limited snacks will be provided for purchase and families are encouraged to bring a picnic or arrange to eat off-site.

 

In a continuing effort to help women advance their education, the local Fillmore chapter of P.E.O. (Philanthropic Education Organization) will be offering financial awards this spring. To be eligible, you must be a woman who attends, or has applied to, an accredited undergraduate degree program or a vocational/skills training program, live within the 93015 Zip code area, and have at least a 3.5 grade point average. Anyone interested should contact the College and Career Center if you are a student at Fillmore or Sierra High School or contact Patricia Morris at tallpat@earthlink.net or (805)231-4085. The deadline for application is March 5, 2020.

 

The Ventura College Foundation Board of Directors has added two new board members: Harald Wulff and Abra Flores.

Wulff is a retired chemical industry executive. He served on the management board of Henkel KGaA headquartered in Dusseldorf, Germany. As the business was spun off into a self-standing entity called Cognis GmbH, he served as CEO of the new company, and became chairman of the board after it was sold to Goldman Sachs and Permira.

"Industry needs young people with technical skills and young people need well-paying, challenging jobs," says Wulff. "I hope to see Ventura College expand its STEM and STEAM programs, particularly in vocational training."

Flores retired in 2018 after a decades-long career as the resident costume designer at Ventura College. She initiated and developed costume design and makeup programs at the college where she currently teaches classes in these subjects part-time.

As a child, Flores was in and out of the foster care system. She understands how difficult learning can be. It was a simple $50 scholarship, given by her undergraduate university, which made a huge impact on her education. That small grant created a feeling that success was possible, and that her dreams had validity. Flores instituted and funded a scholarship program at Ventura College known as the "Excellence in Volunteering in Costume Design." It is awarded each year to performing arts students who show excellence in production work.

"I'd like to do more outreach to high schoolers about the college's theatre department and the available funding and resources through the foundation and the VC Promise paid tuition program," says Flores. "The more we can help students access educational funding, the better chances for success in their career path."

"Harald and Abra bring different skills and experiences to the board," says Rob van Nieuwburg, Ventura College Foundation board chair. "What unites them is their love of learning and their desire to share the value of education to our students. We look forward to their contributions and insight."

Established in 1983, the Ventura College Foundation provides financial support to the students and the programs of Ventura College to facilitate student success and grow the impact and legacy of Ventura College as a vital community asset. The Foundation also hosts the Ventura College Foundation Marketplace; an outdoor shopping experience held every weekend on the Ventura College campus east parking lot. For more information, contact Julie Harvey at (805) 289-6502 or jharvey@vcccd.edu or visit www.VenturaCollegeFoundation.org.

 
Tuesday, November 26th the City of Fillmore participated in Fillmore High School’s Career Day. Students got a chance to stop by and learn about businesses, job opportunities, college classes, volunteer community service projects and more. Courtesy City of Fillmore Facebook page.
Tuesday, November 26th the City of Fillmore participated in Fillmore High School’s Career Day. Students got a chance to stop by and learn about businesses, job opportunities, college classes, volunteer community service projects and more. Courtesy City of Fillmore Facebook page.
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October 29th Fillmore FFA student leaders hosted the “Fall on the Farm” event for all the FUSD preschools, Pre-K, Kindergartens, and K-1 classes. Pictured above are the students who lead this year’s “Fall on the Farm” event. Read article below for more details. Photos courtesy Jadyn Brant.
October 29th Fillmore FFA student leaders hosted the “Fall on the Farm” event for all the FUSD preschools, Pre-K, Kindergartens, and K-1 classes. Pictured above are the students who lead this year’s “Fall on the Farm” event. Read article below for more details. Photos courtesy Jadyn Brant.
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By Jadyan Brant

“Fall Banquet” - On October 1, 2019 all Fillmore Exhibitors for the Ventura County Fair were honored for their hard work and accomplishments at the Ventura County Fair 2019. We want to congratulate all 33 exhibitors that participated this year and all of our winners! We also want to congratulate our 56 Greenhand Degree Recipients!

“Opening and Closing Contests” - On October 9, 2019 Fillmore FFA students traveled to Santa Paula High School where 8 teams competed on the Sectional Public Speaking Contests. Students took home multiple awards including 1st place Novice Team, and Outstanding Novice Positions!

“Fall on the Farm” - On October 29th the Fillmore FFA hosted “Fall on the Farm” for all FUSD preschools, Pre-K, Kindergartens, and K-1 classes. They had 350 students attended the new event held at the School Farm. Students were toured around the farm by FFA members, they also got to pick their own pumpkins and learned about the livestock animals and projects the high school students have there. Thank you to Golden State Hay in Santa Paula for working with us on this event! Fillmore FFA had a wonderful time hosting the young students and are looking forward to making it an annual event!

“NNN Parli Pro Workshop and B.I.G Contest” - On November 13, 2019, Fillmore FFA hosted the sectional Parliamentary Procedure Workshop and Best Informed Greenhand Contest where Fillmore FFA took 1st place as a team. They also took 1st, 2nd, and 5th place as Individuals! Go first year students!

We are currently selling our chapter shirts through @fillmore.ffa on Instagram if you are interested and selling our FFA 2020 Calendars! Please contact Ms. Lemus for more details!