By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, March 14th, 2024
On Wednesday, March 6, 2024, The Ventura County Sheriff’s Department hosted a Coffee and Donuts with Cops event at San Cayetano Elementary. San Cayetano Elementary Principal Krystal Sarabia-Rocha said, “Thank you Ventura County Sheriff’s Department for hosting this wonderful event. It’s a day of fun and learning about law enforcement, and students and staff to get an opportunity to know our local law enforcement officers.” Courtesy San Cayetano Elementary Blog https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/san-cayetano-elementary-eagles-blog/2024/3/6/ventura-county-sheriffs-host-a-coffee-amp-donuts-with-cops. More photos athttps://www.facebook.com/761635201782178/posts/1181414083137619. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, March 7th, 2024
Congratulations to Mountain Vista Elementary on a very successful Read Across America Day. Thank you, Fillmore Fire Department, Ventura County Sheriff’s Department, Mrs. Zamudio, and Deputy Avila, for reading to our students. The National Education Association’s Read Across America is the nation’s largest celebration of reading. This year-round program focuses on motivating children and teens to read through partnerships, events, and reading resources for everyone. Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2024/3/3/read-across-america-day-at-mountain-vista-elementary. See more photos online at www.FillmoreGazette.com. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, March 7th, 2024
On Friday, February 16, 2004, Rio Vista Elementary held its first “Dance with a Loved One” event in partnership with the Rio Vista Parent Club. The evening included a DJ with age-appropriate music, a professional photo booth, and a selfie backdrop area. Pizza and snacks were enjoyed by all. Rio Vista Elementary Principal Beverly Garnica said, “We had an amazing night at our first Dance With a Loved One at Rio Vista event! A huge thanks to our counselor, Mrs. Ibarra, our wonderful Parent Club, and our DJ. It was a great evening!” Courtesy Rio Vista Elementary blog https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/rio-vista-elementary-roadrunners-blog/2024/2/20/dance-with-a-loved-one. Enlarge Photo Courtesy Luther Richmond, MA Education, Rio Vista Elementary School Parent Re: Rio Vista Elementary Dance Gets an A+ on “Dance with a Loved-One Event” On Friday February 16, 2024 Rio Vista Elementary hosted its first annual “Dance with a Loved-One” school dance inside the school multi-purpose room with support from the Rio Vista Parent Club. Each student was given a glow-in-the-dark strobe light foam toy as they entered the venue that was filled with upbeat, age-appropriate music provided by DJ Corona. The event featured a professional photo booth with props and a DIY selfie backdrop area. Pizza, snacks, and beverages were for sale. The event was a great success and exceeded the expectations of many parents and even some of the organizers. The dance floor stayed occupied at all times and at one point, several of the fifth graders started a dance circle and conga line that was joined by other students from every other grade level down to the kindergarteners. At the surface level, the event may be perceived as a fun Friday night dance to start a three day weekend, however, the importance of these types of events cannot be overstated. As a parent of fifth and second grade “Roadrunners,” several years of my children’s and their classmates’ elementary school years were significantly disrupted by the pandemic and connections were lost. This event was a strong effort by the school to bolster community-school relations as many continue forward toward a sense of normalcy. As a result, the school should see positive ripple effects in the near future in regard to parent engagement following the pandemic that disconnected so many of us. Many parents met school staff and the families of their children’s classmates at the event as well. These events must be valued for their ability to unify students, increase parent engagement, and to boost the overall social-emotional health of the campus. The weekend is now over, but our “Roadrunners” are still talking about and energized by Friday night’s dance. On behalf of all of the Rio Vista parents, I am sending a big thank you to Principal Beverly Garnica, the school staff, and all of the parent club members who said yes to this event and put in the extra work to make it happen. |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, February 29th, 2024
On Friday, February 23rd, 2004, Mountain Vista Elementary celebrated student success with their 3rd Annual Student Success Parade. Each student was recognized for their achievements that ranged from perfect scores on tests to being a good friend to others. Mountain Vista Elementary Principal Christine McDaniels said, “We love to celebrate all of our students’ successes with their families and the community. Thank you to all of our families for coming out and supporting our students!” Courtesy Mountain Vista Elementary blog. https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/new-blog/2024/2/23/3rd-annual-student-success-parade. Right are some of the students holding up their work they shared with friends and family. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, February 17th, 2024
Fillmore Middle School hosted a “Coffee & Donuts with Cops” event on Wednesday, February 7th. Everyone enjoyed getting to know and thank our Fillmore local law enforcement. Photo courtesy Rio Vista blog; https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/rio-vista-roadrunners. “After numerous days of rain, the sun came out to say hello, and we are glad we did it! The morning of February 7th, we had the honor of hosting “Donuts with A Cop” at Fillmore Middle School. Thank you to Fillmore Middle School and staff for providing us the opportunity to continue strengthening relationships with your students and with the community. Go Bulldogs!” Courtesy https://www.instagram.com/fillmorepd/. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, February 17th, 2024
Pictured right is Mr. Albin’s 2nD grade class from Rio Vista Elementary. The class celebrated 100 days of learning excellence! Photo courtesy Rio Vista Blog. https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/rio-vista-roadrunners. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, February 1st, 2024
UCLA’s “I’m Going to College” program couples the excitement and tradition of UCLA athletic events with a message about the importance of higher education. Mountain Vista Elementary Principal Christine McDaniels said, “Mountain Vista Elementary Wildcats were in Bruin Country today! We went to UCLA’s ‘I’m Going to College’ event. Students learned about the importance of going to college, watched a great women’s basketball game, and had a fabulous experience!” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=874448848014880&set=pcb.874449571348141. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, January 25th, 2024
Fillmore High School Principal Keith Derrick and Fillmore High staff presented an update on the success of 2023-2024 school year programs, activities, and initiatives. Classified Employee of the Month Rupa Torres, and Certificated Employee of the Month Jeremy MacMahon, both were recognized for their excellent work contributing to the success of Fillmore High students. Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2024/1/19/fillmore-highs-successful-programs-presented-at-school-board-meeting. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, January 20th, 2024
Ventura, Calif.—Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2023, the Ventura College Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides resources and financial assistance to Ventura College students and school programs, distributed $809,995 in direct assistance support to over 5,000 students during the 2022-2023 academic year and another $1.17 million to 68 Ventura College programs across 16 departments and divisions. "Since the foundation’s inception, it’s raised over $48 million to benefit Ventura College students and programs. There is no better way to celebrate the foundation’s 40th anniversary than to contribute another $2 million to help remove the financial barriers to education that students face," says Anne Paul King, Ventura College Foundation executive director. In 2022-23, the foundation provided $75,000 in gap funding for 2,082 students to ensure tuition costs of the Ventura College Promise program were covered due to state budget cuts. The program covers all tuition and fees for eligible students for up to two years. The foundation awarded 439 scholarships to 235 applicants. Its lending library and veterans' textbook program provided textbooks to 2,688 students including 58 veterans. The foundation also provided financial support to the Ventura College Basic Needs Program including its pantry and the Jordana Ybarra-Telias Emergency Grant Program. “The pantry was previously serving 250 students per week. It’s now serving 200 students daily,” says King. “Food insecurity is just one of the challenges facing our students. About 55 percent of the college’s student population is classified as extremely low income or low income.” Community colleges are the least funded of all educational systems in the state according to the Community College League of California (CCLC) 2023 Fast Facts Sheet “K-12, UC and Cal State schools all receive more funding per student,” says King. “Our generous donors enable us to eliminate financial barriers, increase access to education, bridge equity gaps in academic achievement, and empower more students to thrive. Their support has given tens of thousands of students over four decades an opportunity to fulfill their dreams of a rewarding career, higher income, and a better quality of life.” For more information on the Ventura College Foundation's 2022-23 Impact Report, go to https://venturacollegefoundation.org/foundation-impact. To learn about Ventura College Foundation donation options, click https://venturacollegefoundation.org/giving. Ventura College Foundation Established in 1983, the Ventura College Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and operates financially independent from Ventura College. It 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. For more information, contact Julie Harvey at (805) 289-6502 or jharvey@vcccd.edu or visit www.VenturaCollegeFoundation.org. |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, January 12th, 2024
Pictured above is Principal Krystal Sarabia-Rocha with San Cayetano Elementary students marching in the 2023 Lions Club Christmas Parade. Photo credit Brandy Hollis. Enlarge Photo Article by Brandy Hollis Let me introduce you to Krystal Sarabia-Rocha. Mrs. Rocha is the current principal at San Cayetano Elementary, and her smile is genuine, just like she is. We will say I am very passionate about my children, a real momma bear. The first time I walked into her office four years ago, I knew she was new and said, “Did they warn you about me?” She looked somewhat bewildered, said no and shut the door so we could talk in private. She immediately addressed my concerns. She was so sweet and professional, I was impressed. Thankfully she didn’t hit this over-protective momma bear with a tranquilizer dart, and her genuine concern and understanding won me over that day. About 10 minutes after I got home, she sent me a follow-up email to confirm she had made the requested changes. I know this sounds a little silly but, in this day and age, you don’t always get people who stay calm, let alone follow up with you and keep their word. It’s been love ever since. Mrs. Rocha can be found almost every morning outside the school in the drop-off line, helping keep the line moving smoothly, greeting all the kids warmly, and assisting them if they need it. Her smile is worth a thousand words! I’m blessed to know and have friendships with many teachers and staff at the school and I have never heard anything but the upmost respect from her peers. I have been told she makes the environment comfortable for the staff to do their jobs and is on the ball. I know my children will get the education they need, and are in a safe environment. I am challenging everyone I know to take the time to get to know the staff at their kids’ schools. So many people take their kids out of district or enroll in private school. There are quality teachers and administrators here in Fillmore. Mrs. Rocha is also blessed with a Superintendent who is devoted to Fillmore education as well. We need to keep Fillmore’s education money here. First and foremost, parents are responsible for their children’s education—an involved parent is an informed parent. Test scores are not the only measure of success. Hopefully with other parents’ involvement and a plan coming into place, Nancy Hernandez (fellow C.A.R. Commissioner) and I would like to reconvene a PTA/PTO program to assist with the teachers’ efforts. Besides having been at San Cayetano for four years, Mrs. Rocha has been at FUSD for eight years, and in education for 16. If you drive up Mountain View during the week at 8 a.m. and it’s not at a complete standstill, wave at your crossing guard, say good morning, and thank Mrs. Rocha for a phenomenal job with our children. And Mrs. Rocha, I am so thankful for you; seeing you at school, at meetings you are involved in, serving on site council, and always being open to new ideas. I love to see you at different sporting events with your own beautiful children, knowing our community and school district are amazing. |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, January 12th, 2024
(Camarillo, Calif.) January 3, 2024 — Moorpark College, Oxnard College, Ventura College and Ventura College East Campus are holding free Cash 4 College workshops to help students apply for funds to help with college costs. Funds can be used for tuition, books, housing, transportation, childcare, computers and more. In-person workshops are scheduled for February and March. The workshops are free and open to the community; anyone may attend a workshop at any location and can drop in at any time during the events. Bilingual financial aid staff will assist students in completing applications for the 2024-2025 school-year Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act Application (CADAA). Students can also access information about basic needs support (food, clothing and housing assistance), tutoring, academic counseling, mental health services and other student services. AB 469 requires school districts to confirm seniors have completed the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application before graduating in 2024. Cash for College events can help students get ahead. Moorpark College *** Oxnard College *** Ventura College *** Ventura College East Campus ****** 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 30,000 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. |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, January 5th, 2024
Principal Maria Baro said, “Piru Elementary Condors took center stage this week and performed many holiday favorites, as well as introduced some new holiday songs. Thank you to all of our teachers for their dedication in working with students. On behalf of the Piru staff, we wish you and your loved ones a most wonderful holiday season! May the New Year bring you many blessings and health.” Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/756397931999384/posts/1090821831890324. More photos online at www.FillmreGazette.com. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, January 5th, 2024
Fillmore Middle School’s six AVID students visited Moorpark College before leaving for winter break. They toured the zoo, learned about educational opportunities, and were able to experience student life on campus. Photos courtesy https://www.facebook.com/497825872344899/posts/873754248085391. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Sunday, December 31st, 2023
On Wednesday, December 20, 2023, students from Ms. Gutierrez’s 3rd grade class at San Cayetano Elementary were recognized right before winter break as they hit 2-million AR words! Accelerated Reader (AR) books are a reading system Fillmore Unified Schools use to encourage students to read more books. Ms. Gutierrez’s students want to keep striving for 4-million before they get to 4th grade! The overall goal is to encourage students to set high academic goals and achieve them by working together as a team, as well as develop a love for reading. Her 3rd graders want to remind everyone to curl up with a good book this winter! Courtesy Ashley Gutierrez, M. Ed., 3rd Grade Teacher, San Cayetano Elementary School. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, December 21st, 2023
On December 5, 2023, Fillmore Unified School District’s Governing Board recognized Fall Sports First-Team All-League Athletes for their athletic achievements and high grade point average (GPA). Athletic Director Kimberly Tafoya and all Fillmore High coaches emphasize both citizenship and academics throughout Fillmore High’s Athletics Program. Congratulations FHS athletes for all your excellent achievements! Pictured above and to the right are the Athletes who were recognized from the FHS Football team and bottom right are those recognized from the FHS Cross Country Team. Photos courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district. See more photos online at www.FillmoreGazette.com. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, December 21st, 2023
At the December 5, 2023, Fillmore Unified Board Meeting, Principal Christine McDaniels presented Mountain Vista Elementary school program highlights and recognized Elementary Attendance Tech Erica Garcia, and 5th Grade Teacher Rachel Hoffman. Thank you for everything you do for our students! Photo courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2023/12/8/mountain-vista-staff-recognized. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, December 15th, 2023
Fillmore Unified School District continues to prioritize mental health and wellness. On Monday, December 4, 2023, Fillmore USD celebrated the Grand Opening of the Piru Elementary School’s Wellness Center. The wellness center will provide support to students and families in Piru. They would also like to welcome licensed social worker Sylvia Gonzalez, who has joined the FUSD Wellness Team. Thank you to FUSD Governing Board, Piru Neighborhood Council and Ventura County Office of Education, Gold Coast Health Plan, and FUSD and Piru staff for their support. As well as a thank you to FHS Mariachi, “Los Rayos” for providing an amazing evening of entertainment. https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2023/12/8/piru-elementary-wellness-center-grand-opening. More photos online at www.FillmoreGazette.com. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, December 15th, 2023
Thank you, Ventura County Sheriff’s Department for hosting another great Coffee with the Cops event! They brought donut holes for all the Roadrunners at Rio Vista Elementary, and McGruff the Crime Dog made a special appearance! https://www.face book.com/484802076 990777/posts/79236836 6234145. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, December 7th, 2023
On Saturday, December 2, Fillmore Unified School District participated in the Annual Lions Club Christmas Parade. Pictured right is Mountain Vista School, above are FUSD Board Members and students from Fillmore Middle School, all ready to begin their march. Photos courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2023/12/2/2023-christmas-parade. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, December 7th, 2023
San Cayetano Elementary 5th grade students had the opportunity to tour CSUN, the California State University at Northridge. CSUN offers nine different overall degree and certificate programs including Communication, Business, and Engineering. Exposing students to colleges at a young age helps them to better understand college and gets them excited about going after completing high school. Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/761635201782178/posts/1120205102591851. Enlarge Photo |