Superintendent's Newsline

Helix Charter High School's Class of 2015 Celebrates on June 4

This month, approximately 4,975 students from throughout the Grossmont Union High School District will be donning caps and gowns for commencement exercises. The breakdown includes:

School	2015 Graduates
El Cajon Valley	339
El Capitan	333
Granite Hills	616
Grossmont	525
Helix Charter	499
Monte Vista	365
Mount Miguel	315
Santana	316
Steele Canyon	495
Valhalla	473
West Hills	475
Grossmont Middle College High	35
Alternative & Special Education	104
Adult School	85

Following is a schedule of graduation dates, times, locations, listing of valedictorians and salutatorians by school, and a list of the valedictorians including parent names and communities.

Graduation Schedule:

SCHOOL: Date: Time:

El Cajon Valley High School Wednesday, June 17, 2015 6:00 p.m. El Cajon Valley Stadium

El Capitan High School Wednesday, June 17, 2015 6:00 p.m. El Capitan Stadium

Granite Hills High School Thursday, June 18, 2015 8:00 a.m. Granite Hills Stadium

Grossmont High School Thursday, June 18, 2015 10:00 a.m. Grossmont Stadium

Helix Charter High School Thursday, June 4, 2015 6:00 p.m. Benton Hart Stadium

Monte Vista High School Thursday, June 18, 2015 6:00 p.m. Monte Vista Stadium

Mount Miguel High School Thursday, June 18, 2015 6:00 p.m. Mount Miguel Stadium

Santana High School Wednesday, June 17, 2015 6:00 p.m. Santana Stadium

Steele Canyon High School Wednesday, June 10, 2015 6:00 p.m. Steele Canyon Stadium

Valhalla High School Wednesday, June 17, 2015 5:30 p.m. Valhalla East Lawn

West Hills High School Thursday, June 18, 2015 8:30 a.m. West Hills Stadium

Alternative Education Friday, June 12, 2015 6:00 p.m. Chaparral Outdoor Quad

Grossmont Middle College High School Monday, June 8, 2015 5:30 p.m. Grossmont College Quad

Adult Education Tuesday, June 16, 2015 6:00 p.m. Foothills Adult School

REACH Wednesday, June 17, 2015 10:00 a.m. REACH Facility

ELITE Academy Wednesday, June 17, 2015 1:30 p.m. ELITE Facility

MERIT Academy Wednesday, June 17, 2015 1:30 p.m. MERIT Facility

2015 VALEDICTORIANS:

The Grossmont Union High School District has announced the names of the valedictorians for the senior class of 2015. Twenty-sevenstudents have attained this high honor. The student names, parent names, communities, and schools are as follows:

Valedictorians	Parents	Community
El Cajon Valley High School Nagham Adeeb Chrestina Mansoor Matthew Shearin	Mr. Nada Odesh & Ms. Kadar Rzoki Mr. Ferial Karykus & Ms. Waad Yalda Ms. Wyanett Powell	Lakeside El Cajon El Cajon
El Capitan High School Emily Rivera Rebecca Frisbie Brienna Pies	Mr. & Mrs. Fernando (Irma) Rivera Mr. & Mrs. Paul (Angela) Frisbie Mr. & Mrs. Rick (Christie) Pies	Lakeside Lakeside Lakeside
Granite Hills High School Joshua Kurtz Jordan Jones	Mr. & Mrs. Jim (Julane) Kurtz Mr. & Mrs. Michael (Linda) Jones	El Cajon Lakeside
Grossmont High School Sonia Scott Donald Sheahan	Mr. & Mrs. Eric (Monica Sun-) Scott Mr. & Mrs. Donald (Tess) Sheahan	El Cajon El Cajon
Helix Charter High School Kayla Cartaciano Adrian Lam Spencer McCall Naomi Orosz	Mr. & Mrs. Michael (Bennett) Cartaciano Mr. & Mrs. Henry (Fiona) Lam Mr. & Mrs. Michael (Madhavi) McCall Mr. Jerome Orosz & Ms. Yuehchien Lee	San Diego La Mesa La Mesa Lemon Grove
Monte Vista High School Alissa Gunter Angela Chen	Mr. & Mrs. Arthur (Lori) Gunter Mr. David Tran & Ms. Rong Wu	Spring Valley Spring Valley
Mount Miguel High School Rita Tran	Mr. Phuc Tran & Ms. Huong Le	San Diego
Santana High School Jett Pettus	Mr. & Mrs. William (Jennifer) Pettus	Santee
Steele Canyon High School Brejjette Aljabi	Mr. & Mrs. Nick (Lamya) Aljabi	La Mesa
Valhalla High School Amanda Ly Drew Andersen Elizabeth Horn	Mr. Treu Ly & Ms. Nga Vuong Mr. & Mrs. Brian (Lori) Andersen Mr. & Mrs. Christopher (Ann) Horn	El Cajon El Cajon El Cajon
West Hills High School Megan Bursch Anne Dettinger Jacob Samson Wendy Sigler	Ms. Jackie Reney Mr. Michael Dettinger & Ms. Robin Rierdan Mr. & Mrs. Danilo (Hanna) Samson Mr. & Mrs. Robert (Huong Amy) Sigler	Santee Santee Santee El Cajon
Grossmont Middle College Devon Decker	Mr. & Mrs. Ben (Cynthia) Decker	Lakeside

2015 COMPOSITE DATA BY SCHOOL:

El Cajon Valley High School 339 Graduates (including 5 January grads) Valedictorians: Nagham Adeeb, 4.6 Chrestina Mansoor, 4.6 Matthew Shearin, 4.6 Salutatorian: none	El Capitan High School 333 Graduates (including 1 January grad) Valedictorians: Emily Rivera, 4.857 Rebecca Frisbie, 4.786 Brienna Pies, 4.773 Salutatorian: Dalton Jennings, 4.714
Granite Hills High School 616 Graduates (including 4 January grads) Valedictorians: Joshua Kurtz, 4.841 Jordan Jones, 4.826 Salutatorians: Shayan Afshar, 4.808 Safa Raffo, 4.788 Johannah Meyer, 4.75	Grossmont High School 525 Graduates (including 1 January grad) Valedictorians: Sonia Scott, 4.854 Donald Sheahan, 4.813 Salutatorian: Benjamin Kesner, 4.787
Helix Charter High School 499 Graduates (including 6 January grads) Valedictorians: Adrian Lam, 4.79 Naomi Orosz, 4.78 Kayla Cartaciano, 4.7 Spencer McCall, 4.69 Salutatorian: none	Monte Vista High School 365 Graduates (including 6 January grads) Valedictorians: Alissa Gunter, 4.795 Angela Chen, 4.732 Salutatorian: Jerrimay Algoso, 4.644
Mount Miguel High School 315 Graduates Valedictorian: Rita Tran, 4.738 Salutatorian: Hope Magracia, 4.60	Santana High School 316 Graduates Valedictorian: Jett Pettus, 4.744 Salutatorians: Adrian Dinescu, 4.692 Marissa McKasson, 4.692 Selina Wade, 4.692
Steele Canyon High School 495 Graduates (including 5 January grads) Valedictorian: Brejjette Aljabi, 4.696 Salutatorians: Katie Raya, 4.694 Arya Jahan, 4.689 Sophia Alcaraz, 4.667 Cedar Hobbs, 4.640	Valhalla High School 473 Graduates Valedictorians: Amanda Ly, 4.85 Drew Andersen, 4.818 Elizabeth Horn, 4.818 Salutatorian: Catherine Camara, 4.791
West Hills High School 475 Graduates (including 1 January grad) Valedictorians: Megan Bursch, 4.756 Anne Dettinger, 4.844 Jacob Samson, 4.761 Wendy Sigler, 4.717 Salutatorian: Philip Pentsakov, 4.717	Grossmont Middle College High School 35 Graduates Valedictorian: Devon Decker, 4.721 Salutatorian: Ryan Zentmyer, 4.706
Alternative Education & Special Education 104 Graduates	Grossmont Adult School 85 Graduates

The end of another school year nears as final exams are underway and commencement exercises conclude next week. I am continually impressed by the dedication and quality of our staff as evidenced by the impact we’re having on the lives of our students.

I extend congratulations to the Class of 2015 and their families. As graduation occurs next week, we reflect upon our many accomplishments as we wish our nearly 5,000 graduates continued success. We trust they leave us prepared for a great future and with many fond memories of their educational experience.

I thank each employee for their hard work and continued commitment to our students’ success. I also want to acknowledge the administrators, certificated staff and classified employees who are retiring. Thank you for your years of service and commitment to public education.

Please note, the first day of school for students in the fall is Tuesday, September 1. The Superintendent’s Newsline will return at that time.

2014-15 Gold Star Parent Volunteers Recognized by Board

GUHSD Gold Star Parent Volunteers for the 2014-2015 School Year

At the Governing Board meeting last night we honored Gold Star Parent Volunteers. The Gold Star Parent Volunteers program was developed in 2011 to recognize a parent from each school site who goes above and beyond to assist our schools in a variety of different ways.

It was wonderful to hear the stories of service to our schools as each principal introduced their Gold Star Volunteer. We thank you for your efforts on behalf of our students.

2014-15 GUHSD Gold Star Parent Volunteers:

Chaparral High School – Christy Hazlewood

El Cajon Valley High School – Randy Robinson

El Capitan High School – Mary Jorgensen

Granite Hills High School – Sue Sutton

Grossmont High School – Tony Lawrence

Monte Vista High School – Lori Gunter

Mount Miguel High School – Deborah Childers

Santana High School – Darlene Bautista-Homer

Valhalla High School – Maria Gidden

West Hills High School – Yvonne Edwards

Summer Classes for Graduates at Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges

If you’d like to get a taste of what it’s like to attend college, check out the course offerings this summer at Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges. Classes are being offered beginning June 15, June 22, and throughout the summer. It’s a great way to earn some college credits, no matter what school you’ll be attending in the fall.

You’ll find classes that will help you be a better college student, including “College and Career Success,” “Study Skills and Time Management” or “College Reading.” You’ll also find a range of courses, from the history of rock music to classes in English, math, art and history.

Classes are just $46 per credit unit for California residents, plus an $11 health fee and a $1 student government fee. A parking permit costs $18, good for both colleges. Financial aid is also available through the colleges’ financial aid offices.

For a complete list of classes and more information, click here.

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I close by wishing you a wonderful summer. I hope that you will take time to rest, enjoy the company of your family and friends, and reflect upon the wonderful work that you performed this year. Following is a sampling of recent photo highlights that showcase student and staff accomplishments, including several recognitions from last night’s Governing Board Meeting:

Recognition of Valhalla Principal Mary Beth Kastan - San Diego County Art Education Association's Artissimo High School Administrator of the Year

Recognition of Chaparral Assistant Principal Jenee Littrell - recipient of the Department of Justice's Missing Children's Citizen Award

Board recognition of outgoing Student Board Representative Alexis Delmar and Alternate Davanna Ross

Recognition of El Cajon Police Department's Cadet Officer of the Year, Valhalla student Melad Tilko

GUHSD Principals honor retiring Mount Miguel Principal Steve Coover

Recognition of 2015 CIF-SDS Boys Volleyball Division II Champions - Valhalla

Recognition of 2015 CIF-SDS Boys Volleyball Division III Champions - Helix Charter

Recognition of 2014-15 State CIF Spirit of Sport Award recipient, El Cajon Valley student Brian Yeager

Mount Miguel High School's Show Choir earned first place at the Music in the Parks competition

El Cajon Valley Club Inspire students deliver new books to Johnson Elementary

Valhalla ASB receives $1K from CalTrans for placing second in Statewide Safe Driver Challenge

Superintendent's Art Award winner Kendra Constant (Granite Hills) with Superintendent Swenson and Principal Fowler

Steele Canyon student Colin Forman is Grand Prize Winner of the Golden Artistry Jewelry Design Competition. Credit Karen Pearlman

El Cajon Valley student Nagham Adeeb awarded prestigious $15K scholarship from COX

Superintendent Swenson with GUHSD's 2015 COX Cares Scholars

Superintendent's Art Award winner Matham Ali (El Cajon Valley) with Principal Richison and teacher Matt Rabasco

Adult School Students receive high school equivalency certificates at the East County Transitional Living Center

Santana's engineering teams competed in the State Engineering Design Competition, with teacher Jason Kay

Chaparral Golden Bee Award recipients with Principal Napoleon. Credit: Boyd Anderson

Superintendent Swenson, Director of Child Nutrition Vince Scimone and Deputy Superintendent Scott Patterson man the grill at the Classified Employees Picnic

Dear GUHSD Families:

Welcome to the 2015-16 school year! All of us in the Grossmont Union High School District are excited to embark on a new year of discovery, challenge and learning.

If your family is returning, welcome back! If you have not yet experienced GUHSD, you will soon find that we are an exceptional community of learners.

I feel a deep sense of pride in our strong reputation as a District. Our goal is to prepare every student for college and careers with engaging programs that inspire students to reach for their dreams.

As I enter my sixth year as Superintendent in GUHSD, it is a great honor to work alongside such hard-working faculty and staff who are dedicated to making a positive difference for children. The educators in GUHSD truly care about our students, and want to help them grow to be successful.

In the coming weeks, I will share more about our concerted focus on expanding programs, enhancing the support provided to students and teachers, and the impact we're having on preparing students for their future. Click here for a brief overview of our most significant achievements.

Whether you are a long-time member of our school district community or new to GUHSD, you will see reflected in my weekly communications the deep commitment of our staff toward excellence and a strong desire to deliver our very best each day.

Once again, welcome! I look forward to seeing you at our schools!

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

2015 California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress Assessment Results

On September 9, 2015, the California Department of Education released statewide results from the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP). The CAASPP system, established on January 1, 2014, includes the new computer-based Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) summative tests that measure student knowledge of California's English language arts/literacy (ELA) and mathematics standards.

These new assessments replace the former paper-based, multiple-choice assessments for students in grades three through eight and eleven. Student scores are reported across four performance levels Standard Exceeded, Standard Met, Standard Nearly Met, and Standard Not Met. The new ELA and mathematics summative tests allow students to demonstrate analytical writing, critical thinking, and problem solving skills along with their knowledge of facts.

Our students scored at or above the State average on tests that are significantly more rigorous than the prior CST test. Click here for more detailed information. As soon as individual student scores come in, we will mail them home.

New Student Support Center at Granite Hills

Principal Mike Fowler cuts the ribbon as staff, Superintendent Swenson and Trustees Gary Woods and Jim Kelly look on

On Thursday, August 27, in preparation for students’ return, staff participated in a ribbon cutting for the new Student Support Center at Granite Hills High School, which houses many of the support services found at the school.

Several important offices are now located under one roof - Health (nurse), Finance, Attendance, Campus Security, Counseling and Administration. Included in the design is also a college and career center where students can explore and research their options for the future. For the first time, guidance counselors and administrators are able to work side by side to better serve the students. The building also changes the orientation of the campus. Granite Hills now has a "front door" with a visitor parking lot allowing the community easier, less confusing, more convenient access to the school. The new Student Support Center provides a one-stop-shop for Granite Hills' students.

Granite Hills Receives $65K Chargers Champions School Grant

Granite Hills Receives $65K Chargers Champions Grant

Earlier this week, Granite Hills was home to a Chargers media event announcing their 2015 Chargers Champions School Grant recipients. In attendance were #76 Guard D.J. Fluker and #27 Safety Jimmy Wilson.

Granite Hills High opened in 1960, and after three decades of use its weight room had seen better days. All that has changed now, thanks to a $65K grant from the Spanos family and the Chargers Champions program. The school’s new weight room will benefit students at Granite Hills for years to come.

On behalf of the District, I thank the Spanos family and the Chargers for their generous support. Working together, the Chargers and our local schools are creating better opportunities to help our children get and stay healthy and in shape.

West Hills Wins Most 2014-15 League Championships

Principal Robin Ballarin accepts the award on behalf of West Hills' student-athletes

Congratulations to West Hills High School whose athletic teams won eleven League Championships among our eleven schools for the 2014-15 school year. Principal Robin Ballarin along with Athletic Director Don Rutledge and Assistant Principal Josh Reiderer accepted the award on behalf of their student-athletes. Presenting the awards were Conference President Brian Wilbur and CIFSDS Commissioner Jerry Schneipp. I am happy to report that all eleven schools won at least one title last year.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

GUHSD Health Pathways Students Volunteer at Kids Care Fest

GUHSD Health Pathway students volunteer at the 2015 Kids Care Fest

Last weekend, Health Pathway student-volunteers from Granite Hills and Mount Miguel High Schools represented the GUHSD Health Pathways program at the 2015 Kids Care Fest at the Lakeside Rodeo grounds.

The Grossmont Union High School District Health Pathways and Academy programs are designed to meet the demands of the ever-growing healthcare industry. Students interested in the healthcare field usually join as a freshman or sophomore and begin taking A-G core classes with a health/medical emphasis as the labs are focused on healthcare matters.

This public health event, hosted by the Grossmont Healthcare District, provided free health screenings, flu shots, and educational materials to East County families. Our students volunteered at the children's booths, networked with healthcare professionals and gained career exposure, on top of being given the opportunity to make a positive impact on their community. Three health pathway seniors were interviewed by KUSI weatherman, Dave Scott.

These experiences, as well as the hands-on curriculum, including labs that connect students to real-world applications, are designed to expose students to the career opportunities in the healthcare field and to develop skills for success. Ultimately, our programs prepare students to enter into post-secondary education coursework in the health/medical field in order to become our future nurses, physical therapists, dentists, physicians, ultrasound technicians, paramedics and other healthcare providers.

2015 Health-Careers Exploration Summer Institute

GUHSD's 2015 HESI Class is recognized by the Grossmont Healthcare District

For nearly a decade, the Health-Careers Exploration Summer Institute (HESI) has provided Grossmont Union High School District students with a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience healthcare before they go to college. The knowledge our students gain from a hands-on experience like this is irreplaceable.

Participation in the program is very competitive. Of the 42 students who applied this year, 19 were selected and completed all of the program requirements, which included extensive pre-internship studying of anatomy and physiology, nightly research and case studies, and 78 hours of shadowing experience.

Each student rotated through at least ten different departments at Sharp Grossmont Hospital, giving them the opportunity to shadow a wide range of healthcare professionals. It is this exposure to the diverse options healthcare has to offer that helps guide our students into rewarding careers that suit their unique personalities.

The Grossmont Healthcare District began the Health Pathways program with a $25,000 grant in 2002. The financial support has grown to over $160,000 annually just for the Health Pathways. The ongoing grant and program support from the Grossmont Healthcare District has been crucial to maintaining these programs. This truly is a collaborative partnership.

SAVE THE DATE: GOT PLANS? Career & College Fair on Oct. 10

In partnership with the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District, the East County Education Alliance is hosting our twelfth annual Got Plans? Career & College Fair for high school students and parents on Saturday, October 10, 2015, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Grossmont College in El Cajon.

Students and parents will be able to interact with admissions representatives from public and private universities, community colleges, vocational schools, and the military.

Free workshops will be presented on topics including financial aid and career opportunities. Admission to the fair is free and open to the public. More information is available by calling Jason Martinez at (619) 644-7524 or email: jmartinez@guhsd.net.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

GOT PLANS? Career & College Fair on Oct. 10

The East County Education Alliance is hosting the twelfth annual Got Plans? Career & College Fair for high school students and parents on Saturday, October 10, 2015, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Grossmont College in El Cajon.

The annual event awakens students to the many opportunities available to them after high school, both locally and across the country. Once they make contact with college and career representatives at Got Plans?, students begin to think more seriously about their options after high school.

At the event, students and parents will be able to interact with admissions representatives from public and private universities, community colleges, vocational schools, and the military.

Free workshops will be presented on topics including financial aid and career opportunities. Additional information will be available regarding NCAA eligibility for student-athletes, updates and changes to the SAT and ACT tests, transfer options and more.

Grossmont College is located at 8800 Grossmont College Drive in El Cajon. Admission to the fair is free and open to the public.

GUHSD Receives Generous Grant for Health Pathways Program

The Grossmont Healthcare District (GHD), a public agency that supports various health-related community programs and services in San Diego’s East County region, recently awarded the Grossmont Union High School District with a grant of $168,000 for the Health Pathways Program.

The grant will benefit more than 2,000 Health Pathway students at six GUHSD high schools who are pursuing careers in healthcare including: El Cajon Valley, Mount Miguel, Granite Hills, Santana, West Hills, and Valhalla.

The GHD grant will help pay for specialty prepared curriculum materials for biology and chemistry classes, including medically-oriented laboratory experiments and medical case studies, as well as field trips to medical facilities, summer internships, lesson preparation time for teachers and salary for a program coordinator.

The grant also will help support the Health-Careers Exploration Summer Institute (HESI), a program featuring career exploration activities, including summertime community service learning projects and an internship program at Sharp Grossmont Hospital in La Mesa.

Founded in 2002, GUHSD’s Health Pathways Program promotes development of a future-qualified healthcare workforce by strengthening students’ performance in science classes and offering opportunities and experiences that prepare students for a variety of health careers.

High Tech Fair on Oct. 14: Share the Wonder of Science

Students learn about green-screen technology at last year's High Tech Fair

Parents can connect with their children and learn more about Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) at the upcoming High Tech Fair.

The San Diego Science Alliance and the San Diego County Office of Education are organizing this free event, which features hands-on, interactive exhibits from local businesses and organizations. The event is intended for students in middle and high school.

The High Tech Fair will be held in Bing Crosby Hall at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. in Del Mar. A student-parent evening event on October 14, is free and open to the public from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Online registration is encouraged. More details are available here.

The High Tech Fair is an opportunity for businesses, organizations, research institutions and college programs to showcase their work and inspire students to pursue STEM careers and become the next generation of engineers and scientists.

The interactive demonstrations reinforce the concepts students are learning in school and provide them with important insight into possible college majors and careers related to STEM subjects.

The event has grown in the past 17 years to include more than 60 exhibitors, more than 4,000 students, teachers, and parents, and more than 50 schools from across 25 districts. During that time, an estimated 50,000 students from throughout the county have attended and found inspiration.

The High Tech Fair is made possible through the support of corporate sponsors, community partners, and exhibitors.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

Smiles Abound as the Higher Edge Scholarship is Announced

Can college really be free?

It can for our students under a new scholarship program announced this week in which all qualifying graduates of Grossmont Union High School District schools will be offered a free year of classes at Grossmont or Cuyamaca College.

The scholarships, known as the Higher Edge, will first be offered to Class of 2019 graduates within the Grossmont Union High School District.

In addition to the scholarships, high school students will be offered support services and opportunities to explore careers to help them discover a field that excites them and obtain the education they need to meet their goals.

The Higher Edge scholarship program is the first in San Diego County to offer high school students a year of free community college classes. It was created through the East County Education Alliance, a partnership between the GUHSD and the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District.

Students who qualify for the scholarship will be able to take up to 30 units of college coursework without paying a fee, normally $46 a credit unit. They will also receive a free laptop, and free tutoring, counseling, support services, and student success workshops.

A college degree has become increasing important both for the East County workforce needs and for students. Studies have found that by 2021, about 15,000 of the jobs in East County will require at least an associate degree or advanced technical training. And community college graduates earn on average $560,000 more in their lifetimes than someone with a high school diploma.

This is an incredible opportunity for our high school graduates. Every graduate can now have college and career training within their grasp, no matter their economic background.

To qualify for the scholarship, students must have lived in the high school district for at least two years, have at least a 2.0 grade point average, and obtain their diploma from a GUHSD high school. They are also required to fill out a federal financial aid form, begin college within a year after they graduate from high school, and take at least six credit hours of college classes per semester.

To help the new graduates be successful, they also must undergo an orientation and assessment and develop a plan for their college education. Scholarship recipients will also be expected to complete a summer program before starting at Grossmont or Cuyamaca that will better prepare them for college.

Although scholarships will not be available to current juniors and seniors in the GUHSD, they will be eligible for free tutoring, counseling, support services and priority registration through the Leading Edge scholarship.

The scholarship program will cost about $500,000 a year, and much of the money for the first year has already been raised. To donate, go to www.higheredgescholarship.org.

District Advisory Council (DAC) Parent Forum on 10/6

Please join us on Tuesday, October 6, 2015, from 6:00 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. at the District Office where I will deliver a State of the District report at the District Advisory Council meeting. This forum is open to all parents of the Grossmont Union High School District. Representatives from all parent groups on all campuses are encouraged to attend, including PTSA, PTO, ELAC, foundations, school site councils, parent booster organizations, etc.

The District Office is located next to Grossmont High School at 1100 Murray Drive in El Cajon.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

Got Plans? is TOMORROW!

The East County Education Alliance is hosting our twelfth annual Got Plans? Career & College Fair for high school students and parents tomorrow, Saturday, October 10, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Grossmont College in El Cajon.

At the event, students and parents will be able to interact with admissions representatives from public and private universities, community colleges, vocational schools, and the military.

Grossmont College is located at 8800 Grossmont College Drive in El Cajon. Admission to the fair is free and open to the public.

We hope to see you there!

Celebrating 25 Years of Saluting Teachers

GUHSD nominees Matt Norris and Andrea Cooke

Saturday, October 10, is the 25th anniversary of "Cox Presents: A Salute to Teachers." The annual event celebrates and honors the county’s 26,000 public school teachers.

We will cheer on GUHSD’s nominees Andrea Cooke (El Capitan) and Matt Norris (West Hills). Of the 44 nominees, five finalists will go on to represent the region at the California Teacher of the Year program later this year.

The Academy Awards-style extravaganza will be held at 8:00 p.m. at the Balboa Theater in downtown San Diego. The show will honor the county’s hardworking teachers and feature student performances. The host this year will be Emmy Award-winner Sherri Shepherd of “The View.”

The show will air live on Channel 4 San Diego.

Best wishes to Andrea & Matt!

District Advisory Council (DAC) Parent Forum

Superintendent Swenson discusses recent District achievements

On Tuesday, October 6, at the District Office, I delivered a State of the District report at the District Advisory Council meeting. My report is available here.

The forum was open to all parents of the Grossmont Union High School District. Representatives from parent groups on all campuses attended, including PTSA, PTO, ELAC, foundations, school site councils, and parent booster organizations.

Proposition U Bond Program Update

In closing, click here to view Proposition U Bond program updates from several of our schools, including a spotlight on the major renovation underway at Valhalla High School.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

L: 2014/15 Teacher of the Year John Berray with 2015/16 nominees Matt Norris, Andrea Cooke and Superintendent Swenson

On Saturday, October 10, two of Grossmont’s finest educators were honored at “A Salute to Teachers,” the San Diego County Teacher of the Year awards. Representing GUHSD in the competition were this year’s nominees, Matt Norris (West Hills) and Andrea Cooke (El Capitan), who competed against many outstanding teachers countywide. Also present was 2014-15 San Diego County Teacher of the Year from West Hills High School, John Berray.

The annual event honors San Diego County’s public school teachers and was televised live on Channel 4 San Diego from the Balboa Theatre in downtown San Diego. This year’s telecast marks 41 years of honoring teachers in San Diego County.

The culminating event of the evening was the naming of the five San Diego County Teachers of the Year.

The San Diego County Teacher of the Year Awards program is the official stepping-stone to the California Teacher of the Year and National Teacher of the Year events. The five Teachers of the Year selected last week will represent San Diego County in the California Teacher of the Year program, which will be announced later this year. Nominees for San Diego County Teacher of the Year were selected based on student achievement, teaching philosophy, familiarity with current issues in education and community involvement.

El Capitan Hosts Halftime Ceremony to Honor Synthetic Field Contributions

L: Travis Lyon (EC Foundation), Clifford LaChappa (Barona), Supervisor Jacob and Rich Hurst (EC Stadium Association) are recognized for donations

A brief halftime ceremony took place on Friday, October 9, to honor those whose contributions resulted in the replacement of the synthetic turf playing field at El Capitan High School over the summer. Asphalt sealing work was also completed, with a total construction cost of $430,000.

The synthetic turf stadium field was replaced with grants awarded by: The County of San Diego Neighborhood Reinvestment Grant - $200,000, El Capitan Stadium Association - $60,000, The Barona Band of Mission Indians and the El Capitan High School Foundation - $30,000, and the Grossmont Union High School District - $140,000.

The Field Turf synthetic field features CoolPlay infill, which is made of cork instead of rubber, reducing the surface temperature on the field.

Jason Van Named First Quarter Outstanding Classified Employee

Jason Van is honored by the Governing Board

At the Governing Board meeting on Thursday, October 15, 2015, Jason Van was recognized as the First Quarter Outstanding Classified Employee of 2015-2016.

Jason serves the Grossmont District as a Special Education aide at REACH Academy. He is recognized for his exceptional dedication in the classroom and his ability to motivate and lead students to success on the sports fields.

Classified employees provide critical support to our educational mission and programs. Congratulations, Jason Van, on being selected as the First Quarter Outstanding Classified Employee of 2015-2016!

Ambassador to Senegal Addresses Granite Hills Students

US Ambassador to Senegal James P. Zumwalt talks with students at Granite Hills

On Tuesday, October 13, advanced level IB/AP Spanish and French classes gathered in the new College/Career Center at Granite Hills to hear from a distinguished guest, U.S. Ambassador James P. Zumwalt. An El Cajon native, he is the brother of teacher Fran Zumwalt and is currently serving as the United States Ambassador to Senegal. He has an extensive career in Foreign Service and spoke to students about foreign service, the importance of learning a second language, and he told interesting tales of his service to our country.

Jim Zumwalt was sworn in as United States Ambassador to the Republic of Senegal and the Republic of Guinea Bissau on January 9, 2015. Previously he served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Japan and Korean affairs from 2012-2014 and as Embassy Tokyo’s Deputy Chief of Mission from 2008-2012.

Academic League Season Schedule

The 33rd Academic League season schedule is here. Matches begin on Wednesday, November 5. All schools play each other at least once during the ten-game season. The team with the best record will advance to the County Championship in May.

I hope you will find an opportunity to view a Wednesday afternoon match at your school before the season draws to a close.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

Grossmont High School Celebrates 95th Anniversary

2015 Inductees into the Grossmont High School Hall of Honor

Our flagship school, Grossmont High, celebrated its 95th Anniversary at homecoming last Friday. Grossmont is the oldest high school in San Diego County to have its original school building still standing in what is now the District Office. The granite “Castle,” an East County landmark since its construction, has been beautifully restored.

That afternoon I led a tour of the renovated original school that included many members of the Class of 1955. It was a pleasure to hear tales as they relived their memories while wandering the halls.

The 95th Anniversary included the induction of six alumni and two faculty members into the Grossmont Hall of Honor. Six inductees were present along with the families of Merle Donahue and “Woody” Clarke. Each were presented with a commemorative plaque. The 2015 Hall of Honor Induction Ceremony included performances by Grossmont's Red Robe Choir and Royal Blue Regiment Band.

The eight inductees included:

Jean Landis, Class of 1936, WASP (Women’s Air Force Service Pilot) during WWII

Timothy Miller, Class of 1956, Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon for Combat Wounded through Operation Mend

Bill Woolman, Class of 1962: Grossmont High School Benefactor

Brian Sipe, Class of 1967, NFL MVP Quarterback for the Cleveland Browns

“Woody” George Clarke, Class of 1969, SD Superior Court Judge and National DNA expert

Julia Stewart, Class of 1973, Chairman and CEO of DineEquity, Inc., Restaurant Businesswoman

Merle Donahue: 1929-1962 GHS Choral Director

Jim Nichols: 1959-1988 GHS Instrumental Music Director

The event program is available here. Grossmont High School also has a museum, which opened in 2008. It celebrates the traditions and the pride that have distinguished Grossmont since it began in 1920. More information is available here.

El Cajon Valley Students Explore STEM Careers

An El Cajon Valley science student examines a marine invertebrate

On Thursday, October 5, Health Pathway students from El Cajon Valley High School participated in three fields. They interacted with STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) professionals at the High Tech Fair on the the Del Mar Fairgrounds, toured Grossmont College, and Torrey Pines State Beach, where students connected learning about ocean ecology to an actual ecosystem.

The High Tech Fair, hosted by San Diego Science Alliance, is designed to excite and inspire students through hands-on demonstrations from colleges and STEM industry professionals. Our students were exposed to dozens of careers in STEM, while connecting what they are learning in the classroom to the world around them.

GUHSD Health Pathways Students Participate in Breast Cancer Walk

GUHSD students participated in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk

GUHSD Health Pathways participated in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk at Balboa Park last Sunday. The team, comprised of health pathway students, parents, and staff, joined over 25,000 participants to walk the four-mile course. The team was thrilled to be a part of the monumental event. Students were particularly excited to have the chance to march on a closed section of the 163 freeway.

Save the Date: GUHSD Marching Band and Color Guard District Fall Showcase on 11/19

I’d like to inform you of an upcoming student performance you won’t want to miss: the GUHSD Marching Band and Color Guard District Fall Showcase on Thursday, November 19, 2015, at 6:00 p.m. at West Hills High School Stadium. This annual fundraiser by the Parent Music Advocacy Group (PMAG) features spectacular musical performances by students throughout the district. Tickets are $8.00 at the gate.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

L: Director of Instructional Technology Dan McDowell and Superintendent Swenson at the White House

This week I have been in Washington, DC, along with our Director of Instructional Technology Dan McDowell, for the kick-off event of the U.S. Department of Education's Open Education Symposium and the launch of #GoOpen.

We're meeting with other Future Ready school leaders at the White House to engage with senior administration officials and demonstrate the positive impact that openly licensed educational resources can have on teaching and student learning. For our district, Open Educational Resources (OERs) serve as a major piece of the bigger puzzle, which is balancing the financial challenges of maintaining updated curriculum and giving students a viable education that prepares them for a digital world. GUHSD is excited to explore this new opportunity.

In the last few years, a movement called Open Educational Resources has started gaining traction. Various organizations and districts have been pooling digital content resources together in dynamic units and making them available online at no cost. Teachers are able to use this curriculum, modify, add to, and even share it with others. As part of the national Future Ready program, the Office of Educational Technology in the White House is developing a program called #GoOpen to better harness and grow these resources across the country. They are building partnerships between tool providers and school districts to start expanding this program.

Traditionally, we have relied upon textbooks and other printed materials, but FutureForward and Chromebooks are changing the educational culture of GUHSD. As students gain increased access to a device and a web of resources, teachers are starting to think differently about content creation and delivery.

I look forward to communicating with you more on this important initiative.

In the meantime, click here for a summary of our 2015 Goals and Objectives, which underscores the progress we are making in ensuring that our students are prepared for their future.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

Dear Parents and Staff:

Over the past year, I have communicated with you regularly regarding the Alpine lawsuit and its impact in blocking 11 of 14 bond-related school improvement projects on campuses throughout the Grossmont Union High School District.

Today, I am writing to update you with information regarding the recent series of decisions and rulings related to the lawsuit filed against our school district by a small group of Alpine residents.

This week, after reviewing the evidence, Superior Court Judge Joel Pressman issued his final ruling in the case, dismissing the lawsuit and canceling all scheduled court dates, including a December trial date.

On the heels of that decision was an opinion entered by the Court of Appeals on GUHSD’s appeal to the Superior Court’s earlier granting of a preliminary injunction (which forced us to set aside $42 million). The preliminary injunction would have remained in place pending the outcome of the permanent injunction trial in December, unless the matter was overturned on appeal or the final matter was decided or dismissed.

On Wednesday, we received word that Judge Pressman had vacated his final ruling in light of the Fourth District Court of Appeal’s decision. Judge Pressman indicated he will set a hearing to reconsider his ruling. He has requested that both parties appear in court today at 1:45 p.m. for a Status Conference and to set dates for the new hearing.

We remain optimistic that after further consideration of the evidence, the court will come to the same conclusion as issued in the final ruling and ultimately dismiss this matter. We will update you as this matter unfolds.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

26th Annual JROTC Veterans Day Ceremony at Mount Miguel

Mount Miguel JRTOC Cadets render honor to those who have served

Veterans were remembered with honor on the morning of Monday, November 9, as the JROTC Program at Mount Miguel High School held its 26th Annual Veterans Day Ceremony. Principal Kim Hedrick was joined by parents and staff who witnessed the ceremony as more than 200 JROTC Cadets honored military personnel who have served our country throughout history.

The morning ceremony began with Cadet Battalion Executive Officer Dearmin Kassab introducing the key leaders of the battalion and their companies, and he delivered a brief message on the significance of this important day.

Battalion XO Kassab with his Principal & Supt.

He addressed the crowd with a message that from the first battle of the American Revolution to our ongoing war against terrorism in conflicts around the globe, and in humanitarian missions at home and abroad, our veterans have saved countless lives. Over 250,000 American soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines are deployed and stationed in more than 100 countries. Their determination and readiness to go where needed serve as compelling symbols of liberty, justice and hope for freedom all over the world.

The program also included the Corps of Cadets conducting ceremonial procedures and marching in formation. The Flag Detail raised the flag in conjunction with the playing of Reveille, which was followed by the National Anthem.

To all our service members, past and present, whether far from home or here in the United States, we thank you for your countless contributions and selfless sacrifices.

Thank you to our students for honoring our veterans’ service to this great country.

Grossmont NJROTC Marksmanship Team Aims High

Grossmont NJROTC's Marksmanship Team

In further JROTC news, the Grossmont High School’s NJROTC program participated in the Area 11 Qualifier Match in Phoenix on Saturday, October 24. The match was hosted by Thunderbird High School and fired at the Ben Avery Range Complex.

Grossmont High School’s Marksmanship Team Captain Anah Rosas fired a 276 to win the Area 11 Qualifying match in Phoenix, Arizona, on Saturday, October 24, besting the entire compliment of Arizona shooters along with shooters from three California schools.

Following up her impressive win was Cadet Khaing who fired a 272 to finish fourth. The team fired a school record of 1,030 to take third place in the intensely competitive match. The team also earned five individual medals. Cadet Rosas earned a medal for first overall and top kneeling shooter. Cadet Than earned medals for second place in both the standing and prone categories. Cadet Callista Zaenger earned a medal during the JV match for the top score in the prone position. The Grossmont High Cadets have now qualified for the Area 11 Championship Match in January.

Mount Miguel Hosts Visiting Dignitary

Mount Miguel JROTC Cadets with LTG Jeffrey Talley

Mount Miguel High School hosted an Army Advisory Council luncheon with Lieutenant General Jeffrey W. Talley, Chief of Army Reserve and 7th Commanding General, United States Army Reserve Command, on Thursday, November 12.

Lieutenant General Talley holds a PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Carnegie Mellon, Executive MBA from Oxford University, and several masters degrees. He has taught at LSU and Notre dame and was recently named a Harvard Fellow. He is notably the strongest proponent of education in the US Army.

Mount Miguel JROTC’s Armed and Unarmed Drills Teams performed for the large audience that included representatives from the Union Tribune, San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, QUALCOMM, The Heroes, Point Mortgage, Interfaith Community Services, Cubic Corporation, T-Mobile, Solar Heroes and more.

Monte Vista Students Outdo Competition at Surrealism Hair Show

Monte Vista Cosmetology Pathway Students

On October 18, Monte Vista High School Cosmetology Pathway students competed at the Surrealism Hair Show. The event was hosted by the California Hair Design Academy at the Joan Kroc Theater in La Mesa. The event theme was “Flight of the Imagination.”

Monte Vista students swept the competition, taking home first, second and third place in the hair, costume and make-up division. Congratulations to all of our competing Monarchs!

Upcoming Annual Marching Band and Color Guard District Fall Showcase

The District Fall Showcase is an annual tradition

On Thursday, November 19, 2015, West Hills High School will host the GUHSD Marching Band and Color Guard District Fall Showcase at 6:00 p.m. in their stadium. More information is available here.

Please come out and support our music programs. This annual fundraiser by the Parent Music Advocacy Group (PMAG) features spectacular musical performances by students throughout the district. Tickets are $8.00 at the gate.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

27th Annual Thanksgiving Feast at Chaparral

Students enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal at Chaparral

Chaparral High School hosted the 27th Annual Thanksgiving Feast on Wednesday, November 18. Students and staff were treated to a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.

The annual tradition is a fitting close to the week before break. Sponsored by Chaparral’s ASB, the event has its origins in the staff wanting to ensure that students at the continuation school received a Thanksgiving dinner and that this time-honored tradition enjoyed by so many is not taken for granted.

El Capitan Shines at National FFA Convention & Expo

El Capitan FFA student Tatiana Woliung with her project

The El Capitan High School FFA program competed at the 88th National FFA Convention in Louisville, Kentucky on October 28-31. The National FFA Convention & Expo is the organization’s premier gathering during which all FFA competitive events, programs and awards are recognized on a national stage. The event brings FFA members together to learn, be inspired and celebrate their accomplishments in the organization.

Top honors recognizing outstanding student achievement went to:

Tyler Mellott and Danny McMullen

3rd place

Gold Award

Food Products and Processing Advanced Team

Tatiana Woliung

9th place

Silver Award

Animal Systems Advanced Individual

Ralph Eastham

12th place

Silver Award

Food Products and Processing Individual

We are very proud of our students for their hard work in reaching this level of competition as well as the outstanding program at El Capitan High School.

Health Pathways Students Attend Men in Nursing Conference

A Health Pathway senior observes valves in a cow heart

On Friday, November 6th, GUHSD Health Pathway students attended the Men in Nursing conference, hosted at Grossmont College. Students interacted with industry professionals, explored nursing as a career, met with local nursing programs, dissected a cow heart, toured the simulation nursing lab, and practiced the skill of manually taking a blood pressure. The hands-on experience, coupled with the mentorship of actual health care practitioners has helped prepare these future nurses to succeed in their future programs of study!

Special Education Hosts Dutch Educators

Dutch Educators meet with Superintendent Swenson

Last month, the Special Education Career Center and the El Cajon Valley High School Mod/Severe Special Education Department hosted eleven Special Education teachers from the Netherlands. The opportunity grew out of a partnership with the SDSU Interwork Institute and Director Dr. Caren Sax. This was the third year that the two departments collaborated in hosting the Dutch educators. The visit included the sharing of programs, curriculum, and strategies and services to assist the teachers in developing inclusive education and experiences for students with special needs. The group was treated to a visit by Superintendent Swenson, who shared his family's experience of when he hosted a Dutch Foreign Exchange Student.

In 1973, the United States passed the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504), the first groundbreaking legislation regarding education for students with disabilities. This Act ensured all students, regardless of the disability, a free and appropriate education. The Netherlands enacted their first legislative act, the Act of Inclusive Education, thereby strengthening the expectation that individuals with disabilities be educated and employed alongside their non-disabled peers. The goal of the Dutch Educator tour is to assist, educate, collaborate and support our fellow teachers around the world to provide what is every student’s right regardless of (dis)ability.

UPCOMING ATHLETIC EVENTS . . .

The Grossmont Athletic Conference is experiencing quite a bit of success in the CIF-SDS Fall sport playoffs.

Tonight we have six quarterfinal football games scheduled. Helix Charter, Grossmont, Valhalla, and Granite Hills will all be at home, while Steele Canyon travels to Grossmont, and Santana plays at University City. All games begin at 7:00 p.m.

The Volleyball Division 4 Championship will be decided tonight with El Capitan taking on Calexico at 7:00 p.m. at Canyon Crest High School.

On Saturday the Cross Country Championships will be held at Morley Field in Balboa Park. Ten races are run, with the first at 8:30 a.m. and the last race going off at 1:25 p.m. All eleven of our schools will be represented.

Two more Volleyball Championships are scheduled for Saturday at Cathedral Catholic High School. In the Division 3 Final, Steele Canyon vs. Mission Bay will begin at 11:00 a.m., with Valhalla trying to defeat Olympian at 1:15 p.m. to claim the Division 2 crown.

Also on Saturday, Valhalla's water polo match will be held at La Jolla High School at 4:45 p.m. to determine the Division 1 title.

Local news media will highlight our Football semifinals to be played over Thanksgiving weekend. We should also have teams playing in the State Volleyball playoffs and runners competing in the State Cross Country meet on Saturday, November 28.

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I end this issue by wishing you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday. It is my hope that each of you has an opportunity to spend time with your loved ones next week and that your holiday is safe and enjoyable.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

November Camp LEAD

Over 100 GUHSD and Mountain Empire students and staff joined forces at Camp LEAD (Leadership, Education and Development) from November 19 - 21, in Pine Valley.

The three-day, two-night leadership and human relations development program provides an engaging and interactive learning environment where participants gain heightened interpersonal and personal-awareness skills.

During this program, students and staff members come together to explore personal beliefs, challenge their biases and attain a better understanding of others. After attending camp, many students are inspired to make more positive choices for themselves and to serve as change-agents within their schools and communities.

Camp LEAD empowers students to "be the change they want to see in the world" and opens their minds to new ideas, perspectives and cultures. Participating GUHSD schools included Monte Vista, El Cajon Valley, Chaparral, IDEA Center, REACH Academy, El Capitan and Mount Miguel High Schools.

Mount Miguel Students Receive Budgeting Lesson at JA's Finance Park

On December 2, the Mount Miguel High School Matador Business Academy's (MBA) junior class was the first GUHSD-CTE pathway to participate in Junior Achievement's new Finance Park. Students received financial literacy training prior to the visit, and upon arrival at the facility, were assigned "virtual" life scenarios.

In this high-tech simulation, students experienced real-world decision making and consequences involving personal finance, career and educational choices. Through various savings and investment scenarios, students found that it was helpful to learn financial literacy lessons virtually before "real dollars" were used.

GUHSD Student Art Exhibit Opens this Weekend

The Mission Trails Regional Park (MTRP) Foundation is pleased to present, "Natural Views," an exhibition featuring art from students of the Grossmont Union High School District. This will be the fifth annual exhibit at Mission Trails in which GUHSD teachers selected five pieces of student art to submit to the Mission Trails Regional Park Visitors Center Gallery.

The exhibit will be on display in the Mission Trails Regional Park (MTRP) Visitor Center Art Gallery from December 5, 2015 – January 1, 2016. The public is invited to an opening reception in honor of the artists on Saturday, December 12, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

The MTRP Visitor and Interpretive Center is located at One Father Junipero Serra Trail in San Diego and is open daily from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Admission is free.

We thank Mission Trails Regional Park for recognizing the quality art produced in our East County high schools.

Save the Date: 11th Annual East County Young Men’s Leadership Conference on 1/23

Mount Miguel High School will host its 11th Annual East County Young Men’s Leadership Conference on Saturday, January 23, 2016, from 8:15 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Presenters will include esteemed educators, professionals, college students as well as community activists who spend a day sharing their expertise. Workshops and breakout sessions by prominent educators and professionals will provide an innovative and engaging atmosphere for those in attendance.

The conference is open to all young men in grades 6 – 12 throughout San Diego County. The goal is to motivate, support and encourage them to effect positive change in their lives through self-empowerment and wise decision-making.

For more information on how to sponsor or attend the free conference, please contact Mike Love at mlove@guhsd.net.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

El Cajon Valley & El Capitan High Schools Named 2015 Golden Bell Award Winners

El Cajon Valley & El Capitan celebrate receiving Golden Bell Awards

On Saturday, December 5, El Cajon Valley High School’s Newcomer Academy and El Capitan High School’s Excellence through Community programs received the prestigious honor of being named 2015 Golden Bell Award winners.

The CSBA Golden Bell Awards, now in its 36th year, recognizes outstanding programs and governance practices of school boards in school districts and county offices of education throughout California. The awards program highlights best practices in education in all areas of operations, instruction and support services.

The Golden Bell Awards program recognizes exemplary programs in 19 major categories, which are essential to support effective governance and teaching and learning.

El Cajon Valley’s Newcomer Academy was selected for the English Language Acquisition category. This interdisciplinary academy serves students who score low on tests and have been enrolled in U.S. schools for less than a year. Before the academy, students at this level did not receive access to core content classes. Because of this program, all students, regardless of their English proficiency, take classes in the core departments. The majority of the students come from Iraq, followed by Mexico, other Latin American countries and Afghanistan. Many of the students come with gaps in their education due to experiencing war, trauma, violence, poverty, and other unimaginable hardships. The goal is to accelerate the English language acquisition process and provide support for developing literacy, so students can catch up to their English-proficient peers and experience academic success.

El Capitan’s Excellence through Community program was selected for the School Climate Category. The Grossmont Union High School District, the Governing Board, students, families, and the entire staff at El Capitan High School, developed a positive school climate program that has truly made a difference for their school. The vision for the high school soon became, “Excellence through Community,” and four years later, the school is a completely different place. Students have been empowered and the school now has upperclassmen who have realized their undiscovered leadership potential to make positive change among their peers.

Congratulations to our 2015 Golden Bell Award winners!

GUHSD Students Tour Two Local Manufacturers

CTE students tour Computer Integrated Machining in Santee

On Thursday, December 3, Career and Technical Education (CTE) students from Santana and El Cajon Valley High Schools received an insiders’ tour of two local manufacturing plants. The tour was offered by the East County Economic Development Council (ECEDC) and was open to the Advanced Manufacturing Pathway students.

The tour was a product of the ECEDC’s Manufacturing, Education, and Workforce Subcommittee and was spearheaded by Mike Brown of Computer Integrated Machining (CIM), which manufactures complex machined components and assemblies. The tour engaged our high school students in the manufacturing industry and helped them discover the many career opportunities in that field.

In addition to touring the facility at Computer Integrated Machining in Santee, students also visited the Deering Banjo factory in Spring Valley.

During the tours, students were guided through facilities and developed an understanding of what it takes to produce products that are made to exact tolerances for the aerospace, oil and gas, music and medical industries. The tours concluded with a luncheon panel discussion at Cuyamaca College.

We extend our deepest appreciation to the ECEDC and our many partners and industry leaders for making this successful event possible. Special thanks are also extended to GUHSD’s CTE Work-based Learning Specialist Jeff Wood and the event sponsors: Wells Fargo, SDG&E, Bank of America, US Bank, Comerica Bank and Cuyamaca College.

George Yousif Named Second Quarter Outstanding Classified Employee

Board recognition of George Yousif as Second Quarter Outstanding Classified Employee

At the Governing Board meeting on Thursday, December 10, George Yousif was recognized as the Second Quarter Outstanding Classified Employee of 2015-2016. George serves the Grossmont District as a Community Liaison at El Cajon Valley High School. He is recognized for his outstanding contributions to his school and community in helping Arabic speaking students succeed in their education.

Classified employees provide critical support to our educational mission and programs. Congratulations, George Yousif, on being selected as the Second Quarter Outstanding Classified Employee of 2015-2016!

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

GUHSD Announces Early Start Calendar for 2016-17 School Year

On December 10, 2015, the Governing Board of the Grossmont Union High School District adopted an early start calendar for the 2016-2017 school year. Click here to view it. School year calendars were also adopted for the 2017-18 and 2018-19 school years. Click here to view all three adopted calendars.

Benefits of the new calendar include:

•Better alignment with elementary and middle schools

•More instructional time to prepare for Advanced Placement (AP and IB) exams

•Fewer school days after AP testing

•Fall semester ends before Winter Break

•Eliminates need for review in January before finals

•More time to complete college applications and submit transcripts

•Allows students to attend community college summer programs, internships, and college orientations

•Creates greater opportunity for dual enrollment (students taking college courses)

Grossmont High Hosts “Topping Out” Ceremony

Trustees and school officials pose with signed beam

On Tuesday, December 15, we held a “Topping Out” Ceremony today for the new student support services and arts classroom buildings under construction at Grossmont High School.

“Topping Out” is a ceremony held when the last structural beam is placed at the top of a building. Students, staff and construction workers signed the beam before it was lifted into place.

These new buildings will provide modern classrooms and offices to support our award-winning Associated Student Body, Art Department and Student Support Services.

The new art building will be a modern two-story building housing our art department in three classrooms – one for photography and digital design, one for 2-D art, and one for 3-D art (clay and metal). There will be two other rooms in the art building; one will house a portion of the school’s special education transition program and the other room will be used by the Associated Student Body, the finance office, and a student store.

The new student support services building will be a two-story modern facility that will be home to the school’s Administrative Offices, Counseling Department, College and Career Center, and the Grossmont Resource Center.

I thank our taxpayers, board members and district staff who support our efforts to provide quality instruction and modern facilities for our students.

Construction of the new $13 million student support services and arts classroom buildings began this past summer and is expected to be complete by the end of July 2016.

Student Talent Shines at Senator Anderson's Holiday Party

Culinary students from Granite Hills High School

The culinary skills of GUHSD students from IDEA Center, Granite Hills, and Santana High Schools delighted guests at State Senator Joel Anderson’s Annual Holiday Legislative Open House on Thursday, December 10, at Toyota of El Cajon. Our students shined as they represented GUHSD and offered hors d’oeuvres and refreshments to guests. In addition, the beautiful floral arrangements made by the floral design students at IDEA Center made the event more festive.

Teachers Jill Enright (Granite Hills), Donna Small (Santana) and Laureen Botticelli and Brenda Davis-Landini (IDEA Center) did an exemplary job of guiding their students as they prepared for this event.

District Office Holiday Luncheon

Grossmont's Red Robe Choir performs at the Holiday Luncheon

The staff in the district office held their annual holiday party on Thursday, December 17. It was a fun event, made even more meaningful by the generous donations of our staff. Again this year, several families in need were selected from within our GUHSD family of schools and staff purchased clothing, gift cards, bikes and toys. After the holiday luncheon, the gifts were delivered to the families.

The luncheon itself was overseen by our talented Food Services Director, Vince Scimone and his staff. The meal was underwritten by District Cabinet members.

This act of combined generosity, along with all the many wonderful donation programs occurring at our school sites, embodies the true holiday spirit. I’m proud to be part of this amazing, dedicated and compassionate team.

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As we begin our long-awaited holiday this weekend, I wish each and every one of you the very merriest holiday season. Please enjoy a safe and joyous time with your family and friends over the next couple of weeks. Classes resume on Monday, January 4.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

As you begin making plans for the year ahead, I wish to remind you that in December we adopted a new, early start calendar for the 2016-2017 school year. You may click here to view it. Similar calendars were also adopted for the 2017-18 and 2018-19 school years. Click here to view all three of the adopted calendars.

Key benefits of the new calendars include:

•Better alignment with our client districts (Fall semester ends before Winter Break)

•More instructional time to prepare for Advanced Placement (AP) exams

•Allows students to attend community college summer programs, internships, and college orientations

•Creates greater opportunity for dual enrollment (students taking college courses)

El Cajon Valley Students Perform Surgery

Teacher Lynette Smith instructs her Physiology students

Health Pathway students at El Cajon Valley High School learned to perform open-heart surgery. Teacher Lynette Smith's Physiology students learned about congenital heart defects and studied cardiovascular anatomy in preparation to perform surgery on a "four-year old patient with an atrial septal defect and a ventricular septal defect,” that was actually a prepared sheep's heart.

Working in surgical teams, students learned how to garb Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), simulated the surgical procedure, practiced their suturing skills and were tested on their knowledge of the related anatomy. These future health professionals now have a greater understanding of not only the anatomy of the heart, but also about healthcare careers, teamwork in medicine and basic medical skills.

Grossmont Students Compete in Technology Challenge

Grossmont students compete at the Women's Hackathon

Students in the Information Technology pathway at Grossmont High School recently participated in a Cal State San Marcos-sponsored Women’s Hackathon. The 12-hour semi-annual event was open to all female high school and college students who work collaboratively to design a website, game, or mobile app that addresses a selected real world challenge.

Prior to the event, teams can plan, storyboard, and determine what they want to do and how they will go about building their solution. The only caveat is that no programming is allowed until the day of the event.

Our students won awards for Creativity, and Originality & Impact. Afterward, they were invited to a special dinner presentation at the Sony headquarters in Rancho Bernardo.

Upcoming Events . . .

IDEA Center High School Showcase on 1/14

On Thursday, January 14, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., IDEA Center High School is holding an open house to showcase pathway classes and provide campus tours. CTE classes will be showing off student work in culinary, construction, digital arts, cosmetology, and floral design. IDEA Center High School is located at 1600 North Cuyamaca Street in El Cajon.

11th Annual East County Young Men’s Leadership Conference on 1/23

Mount Miguel High School will host its 11th Annual East County Young Men’s Leadership Conference on Saturday, January 23, 2016, from 8:15 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Here is a downloadable flyer.

The keynote speaker for the event is Ms. Sade Burrell, author, motivational speaker, college counselor and Mount Miguel High alumnus. She will be giving away 100 copies of her latest book, What Are You Reaching For?

Presenters will include esteemed educators, professionals, college students, and community activists who will spend the day sharing their expertise. Workshops and breakout sessions by prominent educators and professionals will provide an innovative and engaging atmosphere. One activity will involve Michael D. Love, college counselor and Mount Miguel alumnus, offering a lesson on how to tie a necktie. Every young man participating will receive a free necktie along with the lesson.

For more information on how to sponsor or attend the free conference, please contact Mike Love at mlove@guhsd.net. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged.

2016 Cox Scholars Program

Cox is excited to launch its 2016 Cox Scholars program. Each year, The Cox Cares Foundation awards college scholarships to graduating high school seniors looking to pursue their dreams of a college education. This year, Cox will award up to $110,000 in scholarships to students across their Southern California service area (San Diego County, Orange County, Palos Verdes and Santa Barbara).

Here is a downloadable flyer. Eligibility requirements and application details can be found on their website. The deadline to submit an application is February 3, 2016.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

The Governing Board of the Grossmont Union High School District held its first board meeting of 2016 last night, during which I announced my plan to retire as Superintendent on July 1, 2016, after six years of service to GUHSD. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such a fine collection of teachers, staff and administrators. Our district is home to innovative and creative teacher leaders who are gaining recognition on the state and national level for the work we are doing in preparing our students to be college and career ready upon their graduation.

My retirement letter is available here. Please know that my full attention will be on the many pressing matters and important initiatives in which we are presently engaged over the next several months.

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GUHSD 2016 Governing Board Officers

In further Governing Board news, at its annual organizational meeting in December the Board appointed Robert Shield to serve as President, Dr. Gary Woods as Vice President, and James Kelly as Clerk. President Shield reaffirmed his continued commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of students as he leads the Board through 2016.

Jim Stieringer, who joined the Board in 2012, and Priscilla Schreiber, who began serving in 2000, are the district’s other trustees.

Board Elections Moving to By-Trustee-Area Selection, Effective November 2016 Election

The Governing Board of the Grossmont Union High School District will host three public hearings to receive input and testimony regarding proposed trustee areas. The Board has determined to apply to the San Diego County Committee on School District Organization to change the District’s method of electing its Governing Board from “at-large” voting to “by-trustee area” voting, in which members of the Board are elected by the voters of the trustee area in which they reside. The Board will consider plans prepared by the District’s demographic consultant and based on the 2010 Census.

The proposed maps and related materials will be available online at: www.guhsd.net after January 22, 2016. The public hearings are scheduled to take place on: January 26, 2016, at 4:00 p.m.; February 11, 2016, at 6:00 p.m.; and February 25, 2016, at 4:00 p.m. The first and third public hearings will take place as part of Special Governing Board meetings and will commence at 4:00 p.m.; the second public hearing will take place as a part of a regularly-scheduled Governing Board meeting and will commence at 6:00 p.m. The meetings will be held at the East County Regional Education Center located at 924 East Main Street in El Cajon.

More information is available here.

Grossmont Tops La Mesa Urban Trails Design Competition

Grossmont Students win La Mesa Urban Trails Design Competition

Last fall, students at Grossmont High School accepted an invitation from the La Mesa Urban Trails Design Committee to participate in a high school competition to redesign University Avenue in La Mesa from Troy Street to La Mesa Boulevard. Students were encouraged to use Sketchup, a 3D modeling and design application for the drawings. Teacher Patrick Giovengo introduced the idea to his AP Computer Science students and had seven teams from freshmen to seniors prepare designs using Sketchup, Maya 3D animation software, and paper drawings.

Design firm KTU+A sent two representatives who presented to students the general parameters and displayed some creative urban ideas from other cities. The students made decisions based on the amount of space to work with and the general layout of University Avenue. Students had about four weeks to complete their designs and submit them to KTU+A. The designs were printed and mounted for display at the La Mesa Block Party in downtown La Mesa.

Students Jacob Ennis and Jack Curtin won the overall contest by designing a dry creek bed with designated bicycle and pedestrian paths. Their design beat out nine other submissions that came from Grossmont and Helix Charter High Schools. The design greatly improves the concrete landscape that currently exists and made it a more natural area to walk or ride.

The picture that follows is the winning design. I think you will agree that exceptional student talent is on display here:

Valhalla Student Named an Essay Contest Winner

Valhalla Junior Cameron Elliott with his winning essay

Students in Valhalla teacher Stephanie Sellers’ AP English Language and Composition were given the opportunity last fall to enter an essay contest for extra credit. The contest was part of The LegiSchool Project, which is a civic education collaboration between California State University, Sacramento, and the California State Legislature, administered by the Center for California Studies. The Project's mission is to engage young people in matters of public policy and state government by creating opportunities for students and state leaders to meet and share ideas on the problems affecting Californians.

The essay contest’s theme was "political participation by youth," challenging students to write about why they think voter turnout among youth is low and the importance of voting to them and their peers.

Valhalla Junior Cameron Elliott, was named one of ten winning essayists who will receive round-trip travel to Sacramento to take part in a Legislative Summit on March 2, 2016. Winners will have the chance to meet with state leaders and share their thoughts on this important topic.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

IDEA Center Students Become Beta Testers

Technology guru Robert Wagner helping IDEA Center students learn programming

Last Thursday, January 14, IDEA Center High School held a well-attended open house to demonstrate its array of pathway classes and provide campus tours. Students showcased their work in culinary, construction, digital arts, cosmetology, and floral design.

In Digital Arts teacher Diann Kueny's classroom, student-crafted presentation boards “came alive” by linking subject matter areas of interest to YouTube videos on Chromebooks. Students were excited to learn that for the first time ever, they would link a physical project to digital media from a Chromebooks. Assisting in the effort was a device called a HyperDuino, which was wired to sensor lights that connect the project boards with a Chromebook. The effect was to transform a static presentation board into an interactive, digital media presentation.

With the guidance and passion of Robert Wagner, a technology entrepreneur and CUE (Computer Using Educators) Board Member, students began learning the fundamentals and application of programming as they explored the possibilities of linking digital media along with physical projects.

Students selected subjects ranging from literature and art to the history of hip-hop and computer components for their projects. Next, they conducted research on their topics and began to create interactive displays with digital content.

The assignment involves beta testing this innovative technology with an overseas programmer. During the day students are testing their skills with various inputs and outputs, while at night, the programmer fixes any glitches that may have occurred.

We thank our CTE teachers as well as business leaders like Roger Wagner, who share their time and talent with our students, helping them explore possibilities while developing a real world application to what they are learning in the classroom.

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Last week, we honored the athletic prowess and achievement of two programs - Helix Charter Football and Steele Canyon Volleyball:

2015 CIF-SDS Football Open Division Champions Honored

Governing Board recognition of the Helix Charter Varsity Football Team

2015 CIF-SDS Volleyball Division III Champions Honored

Governing Board recognition of the Steele Canyon Varsity Volleyball Team

Save the Date: GUHSD Honor Band and Orchestra to Perform on 1/30

The GUHSD Honor Band and Orchestra will perform on Saturday, January 30, at 7:00 p.m. at Helix Charter High School. The ticket booth opens at 6:00 p.m.

The Honor Band and Orchestra are comprised of talented high school musicians who have auditioned from throughout the District. We are fortunate to have guest conductors working with these students. Dr. Travis Cross will be conducting the Honor Band. He serves as the Associate Professor of Music and Department Vice Chair at UCLA. Michael Gerdes will conduct the Honor Orchestra. Mr. Gerdes is the Director of Orchestras at San Diego State University. Please join us for an evening of wonderful music.

Superintendent Ralf Swenson

2015 Graduation Information

Superintendent's Summer Send-off

Welcome to the 2015-16 School Year

What's New in GUHSD

What's New in GUHSD

What's New in GUHSD

New Scholarship to Offer Free Year of Community College

What's New in GUHSD

What's New in GUHSD

What's New in GUHSD

What's New in GUHSD

Update on the Alpine Lawsuit

What's New in GUHSD

What's New in GUHSD

What's New in GUHSD

What's New in GUHSD

New Three-Year Calendar Released

Welcome to 2016 in GUHSD!

Superintendent Swenson to Retire on July 1, 2016

What's New in GUHSD