Tickets will be required for the graduation ceremony. Every human being (babies included) will be required to have a ticket for graduation. Graduates will be issued tickets with assigned seating for their friends and family members. All available tickets will be distributed to graduates. If you are interested in attending the ceremony, please contact a senior to see if they have tickets available.

Camarillo, CA. - CSU Channel Islands (CI) graduating senior Ashley Bonneau recently received an award from the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) at their annual meeting held in Washington DC.

A biology major at CI, Bonneau won the Thematic Best Poster Award from a field of more than 1,000 poster presentations. In excess of 10,000 attendees, both scientists and students, from around the globe, attended the meeting and shared Bonneau’s triumph at winning the top prize in her category, entitled “RNA Theme.” Her particular poster was titled, “Double knockdown of the Rheb gene in mammalian cells using RNA interference.” This award included a cash prize.

Bonneau, named a Goldwater Scholar last year for her academic excellence, has been working for the past thirty months with Nitika Parmar, Assistant Professor of Biology, investigating the effects of gene silencing on the growth of human cells.

Bonneau has shown a prodigious work ethic and an insatiable curiosity which have fueled her research. Parmar, noted for making herself available to her students whenever they need her, has worked closely with Bonneaeu. Parmar’s passion exists in the research and in infusing young developing scientists with her enthusiasm for discovery. Bonneau has also been able to mentor and inspire younger students as they enter this field.

Bonneau has been accepted at Yale University to pursue a Ph.D. in molecular biology. Parmar admits that she is thrilled at the prospects in Bonneau’s future but will miss having her as a student.

About California State University Channel Islands
CSU Channel Islands (CI) is the only four-year, public university in Ventura County and is known for its interdisciplinary, multicultural and international perspectives, and its emphasis on experiential and service learning. CI’s strong academic programs focus on business, sciences, liberal studies, teaching credentials, and innovative master’s degrees. Students benefit from individual attention, up-to-date technology, and classroom instruction augmented by outstanding faculty research.

Fillmore Unified School District

FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
TUESDAY, MAY 17, 2011 5:30 P.M. – CLOSED SESSION 6:30 P.M. - REGULAR MEETING
627 SESPE AVENUE, FILLMORE, CALIFORNIA

AGENDA

5:30 p.m.
A. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
B. ROLL CALL
C. PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION AND NONAGENDA ITEMS, PETITIONS
This is the time and place to address the Board. State law prohibits the Board from acting on issues not included on the agenda; however, requests may be made for discussion of specific topics at subsequent meetings.
D. CLOSED SESSION
The Board of Education will meet from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. to consider matters appropriate for Closed Session in accordance with Government Code Sections 3549.1, 54956.7 through 54957.7 and Education Code Section 35146. If the Board does not complete Closed Session discussions at this time, the Board may adjourn to Closed Session at the end of the regular meeting. DISCLOSURE OF ITEM(S) TO BE DISCUSSED IN CLOSED SESSION School District Pupils (Education Code 35146)
o Expulsion Case Number 10-11-13 Labor/Negotiations (Government Code 54957.6)
o Update; Direction to District Negotiators (Jeff Sweeney, Mike Bush, Todd Schieferle, Margaret Chidester) for negotiations with the Fillmore Unified Teachers Association (FUTA), the California School Employees Association (CSEA), Confidential Employees, and District Administration. Personnel Matters (Government Code 54957)
o Hiring, Evaluating, Discipline, Dismissal Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957 Regarding Public Employment –
Superintendent Recruitment and Selection Process
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the Superintendent's Office at (805) 524-6038. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the district to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. [In accordance with Government Code 54961 and Board Bylaw 9320(a).]

6:30 p.m.
E. RECONVENE TO CONTINUED »

So who was at the Rally? How did it go? How many were there?
Have you seen & read Mr. Hood's letter to the editor? Here's an excerpt:
"California Teachers Association campaigns for the law makers who will support union salaries and state worker’s pensions. The unions got the budgets and pensions they wanted, but because members have been so mis-educated by the totalitarian left, the inevitable realities of hating our own American capitalist system, and therefore being ignorant of profit and loss, are coming home to roost. Now that we have helped bankrupt the state, we evidently feel it is ethical to shakedown the taxpayers, as the world evidently owes us a living. But should we hold our breath and stomp our feet if we don’t get a raise in our allowance?"
Read the rest of his letter here: http://www.fillmoregazette.com/letters

And check out this piece that was sent to me by a Fillmore area resident, it examines this same issue, presents some suggestions for teachers Unions
"Debt the Teachers’ Unions Cause Us
The California Teachers Association is a major contributor to the Golden State’s fiscal woes."
By Larry Sand, May 10, 2011

"California’s chronic fiscal crisis should prompt a substantive debate about the limits of government and the folly of an expansive welfare state. Instead, leaders of the 325,000-member California Teachers Association are using the struggle to close the Golden State’s $15.4 billion budget deficit as an opportunity for some political street theater. The powerful National Education Association state affiliate is spending this week highlighting California’s “state of emergency,” with large rallies planned in Sacramento and around the state Friday to agitate for billions of dollars in higher taxes. "

Read the rest and then come back and comment : http://city-journal.org/2011/cjc0510ls.html

What are you up to this weekend? I am honored to have been invited to attend the Fillmore High School Prom tonight, I hope to get some great photos and will post a "review" here. Happy Weekend.

The Early Academic Outreach Program (EAOP) at UC Santa Barbara held a UC Success Night on April 28 in front of Fillmore City Hall. The hosted event acknowledged seniors from UCSB’s partnership schools who have been admitted to UC campuses. Several of the UC admits will be the first in their families to attend a university.
High School seniors and their families from Fillmore, and Santa Paula High Schools were invited to attend a dinner celebration. The event included an awards presentation; recognition by Ernie Villegas, a representative from the office of Assemblyman Jeff Gorell, 37th District. Among others were the keynote speakers who are now attending UC San Diego, Laura Orozco (Fillmore Alumni) and Elizabeth Velasco (Santa Paula Alumni). In addition, Corina Silva and Ashley Pech, Fillmore High School seniors and Emma Ruiz and Ernesto Valdovinos from Santa Paula High School spoke of their obstacles and future academic goals. Attendees were acknowledged by UCSB faculty and staff members.

Congratulations to Fillmore High School and Santa Paula UC admits! FHS seniors: Brianne Cesario, Sean Chandler, Christian Conaway, Mariela Contreras, Gloria Elias, Claire Faith, Diana Gumber, Elida Hernandez, Miriam Hurtado, Joseph Liu, Arturo Luna, Andrea Mendez, Luz Morones, Garrett Nunes, Jayro Oregon, Joel Orozco Jr, Ashley Pech, Mariah Perez, Claudia Rosales, Corina Silva, Grace Simon, Troy Spencer, Jeffrey Stevenson, Karissa Tarango, Kianna Tarango, Isis Topete, Iruma Trujillo, Javier Valdovinos, Blanca Villa, Juan Villalobos, and Marcelino Zavala. SPUHS seniors: Cindy Alamillo, Sali Colio, Jaime Fontes, Patricia Gomez, Melissa Gwynn, Jolin Magana, Adrianna Nunez, Cristina Vargas, Ricardo Gonzalez, Sonia Ortiz, Maria Uribe, Fernando Romariz, Emma Ruiz, Talon Smith, Tanya Torres, Ernesto Valdovinos, Gladys Valdovinos, and Kannie Valdovinos.

UC Success Nights are co-sponsored by the Office of Academic Preparation, EAOP, and the Mathematics, Engineering, and Sciences Achievement (MESA) program. A special thanks to Karen Ashim and Tim Waddel for the cake donations, Jostens for their generous donation, and for the Fillmore High School staff who helped throughout the event.

The Seniors that did not participate in our fund raisers will have to pay $100 for their Harbor Boat Cruise and Bus ticket this year. The seniors knew at the beginning of the school year and again it was noted in the Senior Packet that the seniors were expected to help in the fund raisers by selling pies, sandwich meals, See's candy, suckers, spa (massage/facials) and working the yard sale (parents also) for Grad Nite Live or pay $100. We have a record of the names of students that did work, so we know who is going to pay if they want to go on the Cruise. The money/check is to be stapled to the permission slip signed by the senior and their parent even if the student is 18. Part of it is a medical release so a parent has to give consent. They are to give the permission slip to Jaci in the attendance office and receive a receipt for their money or check. Even though Grad Nite Live had many fund raisers this year and many of the seniors and their families helped, we find ourselves a bit short of the mark of $21,500.

At this time we are $600 short of the boat balance due 5/13/11, $600 for the Magician (has not raised his fee in 20 years), $400 for breakfast, buses (are $1300 each) we need 2 buses for the 100 seniors that are eligible to go now. $2600. The students that pay $100 will be paying for the next buses. So right now we "need" $4200. Money is tight as we all are experiencing just for the necessary things, i understand that and these so called 'extra' things are really hard to come up with, but think of this organization as not just giving a party but a life saving party - the graduated seniors of 2011 are not only safe from drugs, alcohol and accidents, but they have parents and extended family that are sleeping better knowing their senior is safe.

Thank you for all that you have done and will do for us. Please call Mrs. Chaney at 407-5759 or 525-4909. Thank you.

Camarillo, CA. - CSU Channel Islands (CI) will graduate its largest class to date with over 1,300 students at the University’s ninth-annual Commencement ceremony scheduled for Saturday, May 21 at 9 a.m. Students eligible to receive degrees or credentials include: 169 master’s degrees, 68 teaching credentials, and 1,074 bachelor’s degrees.

Former State Superintendent of Public Instruction and longtime supporter of CI, Jack O’Connell, will receive an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters (L.H.D.) and will serve as keynote speaker for the ceremony.

The University expects more than 10,000 guests and roads near the University may be impacted before and after the ceremony which is anticipated to conclude by 11 a.m. Students, family and guests should plan to arrive early on campus to allow sufficient time for parking, student check-in and guest seating. For additional information visit http://www.csuci.edu/commencement/index.htm.

Parking on campus will be limited to graduating students who have requested special parking passes for family and guests, as well as University faculty, staff and special guests. Limited off-campus parking on a first-come, first-served basis will be available at the Camarillo Metrolink Station located off Hwy 101, near the Lewis Road and Ventura Boulevard intersection. The VISTA bus and campus shuttles will provide free trips to and from the campus for guests who park at this location. For exact VISTA bus times at either the Camarillo or Oxnard locations, visit www.goventura.org.

About California State University Channel Islands
CSU Channel Islands (CI) is the only four-year, public university in Ventura County and is known for its interdisciplinary, multicultural and international perspectives, and its emphasis on experiential and service learning. CI’s strong academic programs focus on business, sciences, liberal studies, teaching credentials, and innovative master’s degrees. Students benefit from individual attention, up-to-date technology, and classroom instruction augmented by outstanding faculty research.

THOUSAND OAKS, CA. - A dedication for the new KCLU Broadcast Center will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, May 20.

The $2.9 million center on the California Lutheran University campus in Thousand Oaks houses four state-of-the-art production rooms. Dubbed The Paulucci Studios, they will include the National Public Radio station’s first dedicated newsroom.

The two-story KCLU Broadcast Center also provides facilities for educational opportunities and community events that the previous center couldn’t accommodate. The Martin V. and Martha K. Smith Education Suite features a fully digitized classroom next to a student lab, providing an observation and workshop environment to train CLU broadcast journalism students. The second student lab will house a student-run digital Internet radio station.

There is also a community room that will be used for meetings and special events.

The new 6,570-square-foot center will replace the tiny studio in CLU’s Mountclef Residence Hall where the KCLU staff has produced award-winning local news and public affairs programs since it signed on in 1994. KCLU, which serves about 70,000 weekly listeners in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties, has received more than 140 awards for broadcasting excellence in the last decade.

The public is invited to the dedication. Following the ceremony, people can take self-guided tours of the center.

The site is north of Olsen Road on Campus Drive in Thousand Oaks. It is located on the east side of the street.

KCLU, a community service of CLU, broadcasts local and national programming in Ventura County on 88.3 FM and in Santa Barbara County at 1340 AM and 102.3 FM. Live streaming and archives are available at http://www.kclu.org.

Wow, as if we didn't have enough local news I received word this morning from several FUSD staff members and parents that this morning (Thursday, May 5, 2011) an email was sent out from Superintendent Jeff Sweeney announcing his retirement effective June 30, 2011. His email included the letter that he delivered to the school board presumably during closed session on Tuesday (May 3) night. Here is the text of his email to staff:
********************
Hi,

This is not a budget update, although there is some optimism coming from Sacramento. We will know better in two weeks after the May Revise. For now, we will wait and hope…

I wanted to share the following letter that I gave to the Board Tuesday night:

Dear FUSD Board of Education,

I wanted to thank you for the last five years of serving the Fillmore Unified School District. It has been a distinct pleasure working with you, the staff, the students, and the community.

I wanted to let you know that I plan on retiring effective June 30, 2011. I will carry with me lifelong memories of working with all of you.

Respectfully,

Jeff Sweeney

Superintendent

The brief note above does not begin to express the experience I have had working with you. I will share more in a future communiqué. Until then, I wish you enough…

Jeff

I Wish You Enough

I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright.

I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun more.

I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive.

I wish you enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much bigger.

I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.

I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.

I wish you enough “Hello’s” to get you through the final “Goodbye.”

- – - written by Bob Perks
********************************

This announcement comes after a tough year of budget reductions including the noticing of many employees. Sweeney as the top administrator in the District has at times been the target of complaints. According to Mr. Sweeney's contract his employment agreement is renewed and approved annually, so in terms of any side meeting any contract requirements this will be an easy shift.
Now what? According to FUSD Board policy (online at www.gamutonline.net ; login: Fillmore; password: public) BP 4111 pertaining to Personnel:

The Board of Education desires to employ the most highly qualified and appropriate person available for each open position in order to improve student achievement and efficiency in district operations.

BP 2121 Superintendent Recruitment and Selection:
The Board of Education recognizes that it has a direct responsibility to select and employ the Superintendent. Whenever it becomes necessary for the Board to fill a vacancy in the position of Superintendent, the Board shall work diligently to employ a person whose management and leadership abilities are most closely aligned with district needs.
The Board shall establish and implement a search and selection process that includes consideration of:

1. The district's current and long-term needs, including a review of the district's vision and goals
2. The desired characteristics of a new Superintendent, including professional experience, educational qualifications, leadership characteristics, philosophy of education, and other management, technical, interpersonal and conceptual skills, as well as the priorities the Board wants to place on different abilities, traits and levels of knowledge

3. The scope of the search, including whether to promote from within the district or broaden the search to include both internal and external candidates and, if external candidates will be considered, whether to conduct a statewide or nationwide search

4. The salary range and benefits to be offered

5. Basic elements to be included in the Superintendent's contract

6. Whether to hire a professional adviser to facilitate the process

7. How and when to involve the community in certain phases of the selection process
(the section of Board policy that relates to Citizen Advisory Committees cf. 1212 was not available online, I have requested that the text of it be emailed to me, I will post as soon as I can)

8. The best methods for advertising the vacancy and recruiting qualified candidates

9. The process for screening applications and determining how the screener(s) will be selected

10. Interview questions, processes and participants

11. How and when candidates' qualifications will be verified through reference checks

12. Other actions necessary to ensure a fair selection process and a smooth transition to new leadership

Even if a professional adviser is used to facilitate the process, the Board shall retain the right and responsibility to oversee the process and to review all applications if desired.

The Board shall select candidates to be interviewed based on recommendations of the screener(s) and the Board's own assessment of how candidates meet the criteria established by the Board.

The Board shall interview preliminary and final candidates in closed session and determine the most likely match for the district. (Government Code 54957)

The selected candidate shall hold both a valid school administration certificate and a valid teacher's certificate. The Board may waive any credential requirement, but shall not employ a person whose credential has been revoked by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing pursuant to Education Code 44421-44427. (Education Code 35028, 35029, 35029.1)

Before offering the position to the selected candidate or making any announcements, Board members may visit that candidate's current district, as appropriate, to obtain verification of his/her qualifications.

The Board shall deliberate in closed session to affirm the selection of the candidate and shall report the selection in open session. (Government Code 54957)

The Board shall conduct these proceedings in accordance with legal and ethical obligations regarding confidentiality and equal opportunity.
As necessary, the Board may appoint an interim superintendent to manage the district during the selection process.

Regarding the Contract with the Superintendent:
In approving employment contracts with the Superintendent, the Board of Education wishes to encourage the Superintendent's long-term commitment to the district and community while carefully considering the financial and legal implications of the contract in order to protect the district from any potentially adverse obligations.

The Board shall designate a representative to negotiate with the Superintendent on its behalf and shall consult legal counsel to draft the contract document.

The Board shall deliberate in closed session about the terms of the contract.

Terms of the contract shall remain confidential until the ratification process commences.

The Board shall ratify the Superintendent's contract in an open meeting, which shall be reflected in the Board's minutes. Copies of the contract shall be available to the public upon request.

The contract shall include, but not be limited to, provisions for salary and benefits, annual evaluations, term of the contract, and conditions for termination of the contract. The contract should also include general responsibilities and duties of the Superintendent.

The term of the contract shall be for no more than four years. (Education Code 35031)

During the term of the contract, the Board may reemploy the Superintendent on those terms and conditions mutually agreed upon by the Board and Superintendent. (Education Code 35031)

The Superintendent's contract shall be extended only by Board action and subsequent to a satisfactory evaluation of the Superintendent's performance.

In the event that the Board determines not to reemploy the Superintendent, the Board shall provide written notice to the Superintendent at least 45 days in advance of the expiration of the term of the contract. (Education Code 35031)

The Superintendent's contract shall include a provision specifying the maximum cash settlement that the Superintendent may receive upon termination of the contract. However, if the unexpired term of the contract is greater than 18 months, the maximum cash settlement shall be no more than the Superintendent's monthly salary multiplied by 18. The cash settlement shall not include any noncash items other than health benefits, which may be continued for the unexpired term of the contract up to 18 months or until the Superintendent finds other employment, whichever occurs first. (Government Code 53260, 53261)

(cf. 4117.5/4217.5/4317.5 - Termination Agreements)

If the Board terminates the Superintendent's contract upon its belief and subsequent confirmation pursuant to an independent audit that the Superintendent has engaged in fraud, misappropriation of funds, or other illegal practices, the maximum settlement shall be within the limits prescribed by law, as determined by an administrative law judge. (Government Code 53260)
*************************
Next I'll post the stated duties of the Superintendent.

What kind of skills do you think the new superintendent should have?
Bilingual? experience with low income community? success in turning around low performing schools?
What is important to you in your superintendent?
Remember every resident within FUSD has a stake in this. Schools are the foundation of the community and create lifelong links within that community. The quality of schools also affects property values, what companies come to town, job availability, and so on.

Do you think the School Board should form a Community Advisory Committee to assist in the selection process of a new superintendent? I have read about other Districts actually having open town hall interview sessions with final candidates, where the community can meet the final two or three, ask them questions and chat.

here is a link to a PDF report from a district in Pittsburgh, I thought this was very interesting... the questions asked are insightful. http://www.aplusschools.org/SuperReport.pdf

Keep an eye out for full article about Mr. Sweeney's retirement in next weeks Gazette.

Attend the Rally for Education in front of FUSD offices on sespe street next wednesday, here's a link for more info: http://www.fillmoregazette.com/community/fillmorepiru-rally-education

Community members and educators will assemble to rally in support of Fillmore Schools on May 11. Those attending will be encouraged to target their legislators in Sacramento with postcards urging them to pass a timely budget that protects education from another year of severe cuts. People are invited to bring their families, blankets, and lawn chairs at 3:00 to the grass in front of the District Office where they can join others from the community to show support for the students and staff whose education and jobs are threatened by the ongoing budget crisis. Hot dogs and drinks will be served. After eating, a march along the nearby sidewalks will give attendees another opportunity to express their concerns and raise awareness of the inadequate funding level for education in California. If the underfunding of schools continues students in the local elementary schools may face larger class sizes, while students in high school may have larger class sizes and fewer class choices. The academic school year will remain shortened. The California’s budget battle has left the Fillmore Unified School District with great uncertainty as it builds its budget for the 2011/2012 school year. The School Board has been forced to send pink slips out to many district employees. These pink slips have been received by numerous classified, certificated, and administrative district employees. As Fillmore Unified is the largest employer in Fillmore these pink slips could adversely affect the financial health of the City of Fillmore for years to come. Rally planners are looking for a large turnout of community members and school employees to target Sacramento for its failure to adequately fund schools.

Fillmore Unified School District

FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2011 5:30 P.M. – CLOSED SESSION 6:30 P.M. - REGULAR MEETING
627 SESPE AVENUE, FILLMORE, CALIFORNIA

AGENDA

5:30 p.m.
A. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
B. ROLL CALL
C. PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION AND NONAGENDA ITEMS, PETITIONS
This is the time and place to address the Board. State law prohibits the Board from acting on issues not included on the agenda; however, requests may be made for discussion of specific topics at subsequent meetings.
D. CLOSED SESSION
The Board of Education will meet from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. to consider matters appropriate for Closed Session in accordance with Government Code Sections 3549.1, 54956.7 through 54957.7 and Education Code Section 35146. If the Board does not complete Closed Session discussions at this time, the Board may adjourn to Closed Session at the end of the regular meeting. DISCLOSURE OF ITEM(S) TO BE DISCUSSED IN CLOSED SESSION Labor/Negotiations (Government Code 54957.6)
o Update; Direction to District Negotiators (Jeff Sweeney, Mike Bush, Todd Schieferle, Margaret Chidester) for negotiations with the Fillmore Unified Teachers Association (FUTA), the California School Employees Association (CSEA), Confidential Employees, and District Administration. Personnel Matters (Government Code 54957)
o Hiring, Evaluating, Discipline, Dismissal Public Employee Performance Evaluation: Superintendent (The Board and
Superintendent meet periodically to provide feedback to one another concerning
the achievement of goals.)
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the Superintendent's Office at (805) 524-6038. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the district to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. [In accordance with Government Code 54961 and Board Bylaw 9320(a).]

6:30 p.m.
E. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION Any Action From Closed Session
F. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
G. CLARIFICATION OF AGENDA AND TIME ALLOCATIONS FOR DISCUSSION ITEMS
H. PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS AND NONAGENDA ITEMS, PETITIONS
This is the time and place to address the school board. State law prohibits the Board from acting on issues not included on the agenda; however, requests may be made for discussion of specific topics at subsequent meetings.
I. STUDENTS FIRST Tim Hagel
J. WRITTEN CONTINUED »

Jack O’Connell

THOUSAND OAKS, CA. - California Lutheran University will honor 690 students* receiving bachelor’s degrees at the Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 14, in Mt. Clef Stadium.

The 534 students* receiving master’s and doctoral degrees will be honored during the Graduate Commencement Ceremony at 6 p.m. Friday, May 13, in Mt. Clef Stadium.

Jack O’Connell, California’s former State Superintendent of Public Instruction, will address the graduates and receive an honorary doctor of laws degree from CLU at both ceremonies.

As chief of the state’s public school system and leader of the California Department of Education from January 2003 to January 2011, O’Connell focused on closing the achievement gap, smoothing transitions between segments of education, and strengthening school accountability and assessment systems. He was a leader in the national effort to increase flexibility and fairness in the federal No Child Left Behind system.

The former high school teacher also worked to improve public education as a member of both the state Assembly and Senate, authoring numerous landmark education bills. The longtime legislator once received both the Republican and Democratic nominations for the Assembly. O’Connell grew up in Oxnard, graduated from Oxnard High School and returned to his alma mater to teach government. He currently serves as chief education officer for School Innovations and Advocacy in Sacramento and on the board of directors of Education Credit Management Corp.

Skyler Butenshon, an Astoria, Ore., resident who is majoring in music and minoring in philosophy, will speak on behalf of his fellow traditional undergraduate students at the undergraduate ceremony. Butenshon sang with the CLU Choir and Kingsmen Quartet, performed with the CLU Improv Troupe and in university productions, and studied in Oxford and other European cities while earning his degree.

Josefina Garong, a 46-year-old native of the Philippines who now lives in Oxnard, will speak on behalf of the Adult Degree Evening Program students at the undergraduate ceremony. Putting her education on the back burner as her children finished degrees and her husband earned promotions, the mother of three took nine years to complete her degree. She is now graduating magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in accounting.

*Number based on Registrar’s Office data on April 28, 2011.

Professor Sean Anderson

Camarillo, CA. - Sean Anderson, Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies at CSU Channel Islands (CI), will be recognized at CI’s Honors Convocation on Friday, May 6, and receive the President’s Award for Innovations in Teaching and Learning. The award is given in recognition of an individual who has made unique and significant contributions to the teaching mission of the University.

To be eligible for the award a nominee must have taught at least two years at CI and be full-time faculty, either tenure-track or lecturer. The application packages are judged by reviewers from outside CI on the applicant’s impact on and involvement with students; his or her scholarly approach to teaching and learning; contributions to undergraduate education, community and profession and support from colleagues and students.

Anderson was selected for his use of innovative strategies in teaching by using technology and service learning projects, such as the use of the iTunesU application, podcasts and lab exercises including conservation role playing. He has engaged his students extensively in service learning projects in his course “Restoration in New Orleans,” giving his students the opportunity to travel to New Orleans to engage in ongoing research, construction and cultural activities. The course also deals with environmental justice and policy. Anderson’s course “Ecological Restoration Design and Construction” is taught in partnership with the National Park Service where students are given extensive hands-on experience. His work with his students is characterized by classroom components, coupled with strong real world experience to illustrate the academic principles.

Anderson, as a teacher-scholar, has published in the field of ecological restoration and has also contributed to the scholarship of teaching and learning, describing in various articles his efforts to design innovative leaning opportunities for his students.

Anderson will receive not only the President’s Award but will also be nominated by CI for the Carnegie Foundation’s U.S. Professors of the Year Award, which honors those who excel as educators and influence the lives and careers of their students. Sponsored by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) and The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, it is the only national program to recognize excellence in undergraduate teaching and mentoring.

President Richard R. Rush stated, “Dr. Anderson is an outstanding educator whose efforts in support of the mission and goals of the University have resulted in phenomenal student success. His enthusiasm for both his students and his academic field has been recognized both on and off campus, providing leadership for his colleagues through his innovations in teaching and practice.”

About California State University Channel Islands
CSU Channel Islands (CI) is the only four-year, public university in Ventura County and is known for its interdisciplinary, multicultural and international perspectives, and its emphasis on experiential and service learning. CI’s strong academic programs focus on business, sciences, liberal studies, teaching credentials, and innovative master’s degrees. Students benefit from individual attention, up-to-date technology, and classroom instruction augmented by outstanding faculty research.

At the April 26, 2011 Board meeting Superintendent Jeff Sweeney provided on paper the Mission, Vision and Goals for the District. It should be noted that all of this information is laid out in Board policies that are available to every member of the public at any time through the Districts website. Keep in mind that many of the policies have been updated recently and you would need to confirm with the District that the policy online is the most up to date version.

The Vision is what the District “looks like” when the Mission has been successful. A Vision is the ultimate goal that all actions are working towards. When the District is exactly the way described in the Vision, it means the Mission has been wholly successful.

VISION:
Rooted in tradition and committed to excellence, FUSD works collaboratively with parents and the community to empower students to succeed in an ever-changing world.

The Mission of an organization, company or school district is the underlying intention for all actions it takes as it works towards its Vision.

MISSION:
To ensure that each students will develop the skills and attitudes essential for success in school and in a diverse society, we are committed to:

-All students learning
-A competent and caring staff participating in decision-making
-Parents as partners
-Effective management of resources
-A safe, healthy and inviting environment
-Excellence in all we do

GOALS for 2010-2011 as laid out by the Board:

To improve the achievement of all students it the goal of all staff, parents, community members and board members within FUSD.
-Special focus will increase the academic achievement of English language learners.

In order to do this we will:
-Provide the highest quality staff for the students in the school district

-Special emphasis will be placed on the salary parity, positive, collaborative workplace environments, retaining quality staff, hiring highly qualified teachers and helping all staff improve and grow professionally through performance evaluation.

-Review and improve District and school discipline plans and procedures to increase the attendance of all students.

-Increase parent outreach, parent involvement, and parent education opportunities.

-Improve communication within the school district and with parents and community partners.

-Maintain clean, orderly and safe facilities for students and staff.

-Evaluate all facets of the instructional program, including the use of technology as an instructional tool, to ensure all curriculum is research-based and effectively implemented.

Do you think the District has met any of its goals? Which ones? Which ones has it failed to meet?

Assistant Superintendent, Director of Business Services Michael Bush, presented the following list to the Board and those in attendance. It is based on recommendations from the Superintendent.
All positions related to the items on this list have been noticed. See notes below the list regarding direction given by the Board that resulted in a few items being moved on the list and which should result in notices being rescinded.

Group A: Superintendent recommends cutting even if no reductions in budget required.
Group B: Superintendent recommends cutting if State reduction is $349 per pupil
Group C: Superintendent recommends cutting if State reduction is $620 per pupil
Group D: Superintendent recommends these items are “untouchable”. *I added the Group D designation for ease of reporting, this list was presented but with no Group designation.

(A note on the formatting, I am unable to make nice columns on the blog, so the top line tells you the 4 bits of info for each item, Expense, Savings, Group and # of Students impacted. The info you see for each "expense" is in that order following the item, sorry it is a bit confusing)

Expense Savings Group # of students impacted
Two FHS Teachers $ 155,374 A 988
(- Due to declining enrollment)
Director of Special Projects 70,330 A NA
FHS Asst. Principal 44,781 A 988
(Becomes part-time Dean)
FHS Health Clerk 31,334 A 988
5 Additional Furlough Days 550,000 B 0
Mechanic 77,145 B NA
Align Funding of Facility Mngment 64,548 B NA
Adjusted Site Budgets 31,000 B 3764
One Cabinet Position 150,000 C NA
Raise grades 4-5 by two 117,200 C NA
Raise secondary class size by one 117,000 C 1787
One Educational Services Coord. 100,000 C 3764
General Fund Support of Libraries* 86,653 C 3764
Elementary Music Teacher* 85,782 C 200
Counselor 83,796 C 799
One Cabinet Secretary 80,000 C NA
One Groundsman 64,216 C NA
One Custodian 60,000 C NA
Grade 4-5 Class Size Relief 46,880 C NA
Athletic Director/Clerk 45,487 C NA
Site Administration 807,396 D 3764
Class Size Reduction 580,890 D 1207
2 Vice Principals 235,133 D 1787
Raise Secondary Class Size by 2** 117,200 D 1787
Special Ed Coordinator 114,568 D 3764
Zangle Support 80,923 D NA
Data Specialist 79,059 D NA

Total District Reductions: $4,076,696

*Denotes item moved to Group D by Board on April 26th. Presumably positions affected that have been noticed will be reinstated.
**Denotes item moved from Group D to Group C
Note: Board agreed with all Group D, so all notices attached to those cuts will presumably be rescinded. Mr. Sweeney indicated this on April 26.
***************************************

Here is a blurb about the school where the video was written/performed etc. Link to video on youtube is below.

DreamYard Teaching Artist - Renée Watson
Video - David Flores

www.dreamyard.com
www.dyprep.org
www.reneewatson.net
www.dflo.net

The DREAMYARD PREPARATORY SCHOOL cultivates Scholarship, Artistry and Character within its students to develop successful individuals and responsible citizens.

DY Prep provides a rigorous arts integrated curriculum that emphasizes problem solving and critical thinking while deepening students' understanding of all subject areas. All of our classes empower students with skills to engage the world creatively and pursue professional careers. Community, creativity and leadership inform a school culture that nurtures the growth of articulate and thoughtful adults. DY Prep is committed to providing the support and guidance that will allow each student to graduate with a Regents diploma, acceptance to a college or university, and a clear path toward a fulfilling and meaningful career.

DreamYard transforms Bronx public schools and communities through the power of project-based arts learning. As the largest arts education provider in the Bronx, DreamYard impacts the social and intellectual growth of thousands of Bronx students through safe, positive and creatively challenging programs.

DreamYard's professional artists partner with classroom teachers and community educators to help students learn in new ways and develop literacy and communication skills. Through year-long programs offered during the school day, after-school, on weekends and during the summer, DreamYard supports youth development, enhances life-long learning skills and promotes creative thinking and expression

Link to "PUBLIC EDUCATION" http://youtu.be/cp6u21F6Wiw

Camarillo, CA. - The third annual CSU Channel Islands (CI) Faculty-Student Research Forum will be held Saturday, May 14, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the John Spoor Broome Library on campus. The event, sponsored by SAGE Publications and the Division of Academic Affairs, is free and open to the public.

The Forum will highlight research, scholarship, creative activities and grants featuring faculty-student collaborative presentations, faculty research presentations and student research/capstone presentations. There will be 90 posters on display around the room. These represent the students’ final projects.

The program will provide original research and insights and many choices of topics. The 30 faculty-student presentations will cover topics as diverse as:

Congressional Appropriations Earmarks and Representation in American Politics
Psychosocial Adjustment and Recidivism in At-Risk Youth
The Urbanization of Wildlife: A Case Study Focusing on Humpback Whales within Breeding Grounds
Homeless Women in Ventura County
Solar Power Integration for California State University Channel Islands
Lost and Found: A Dance Film Short Collaboration
The forum was designed in response to CI’s desire to strengthen research activities as part of its academic foundation and to increase the number of faculty and student research activities. The faculty-student projects have encouraged community partnerships that enhance the research projects through resources, information and education. CI recognizes and encourages student and faculty research and scholarly projects, activities that are integral to CI’s mission and student learning.

Please follow the directional signs indicating event location and parking areas. Free bus service to and from the campus is also provided for attendees from the Camarillo Metrolink Station every 30 minutes. For exact times, check the schedule at www.goventura.org.

For additional information contact Merissa Stith, Events Coordinator at CSU Channel Islands, at 805-437-8548 or merissa.stith@csuci.edu.

About California State University Channel Islands
CSU Channel Islands (CI) is the only four-year, public university in Ventura County and is known for its interdisciplinary, multicultural and international perspectives, and its emphasis on experiential and service learning. CI’s strong academic programs focus on business, sciences, liberal studies, teaching credentials, and innovative master’s degrees. Students benefit from individual attention, up-to-date technology, and classroom instruction augmented by outstanding faculty research.