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Education + Communication = A Better Nation ®
Covering the Wiseburn School District
VOLUME 2, ISSUE 5 JUNE – OCTOBER 2010
SUPERINTENDENT
Maintaining Excellence
Chess Challenge!
I would like to begin our final
issue of School News for 2009-10
by thanking the entire Wiseburn
Community for all of your sup-
port this year. The education of
our children is truly a community
effort and our school district is
Dr. Tom Johnstone very blessed to enjoy unparal-
leled support from all of you.
The theme for this edition of School News is
“Maintaining Excellence.” These two words take
on a special meaning this year as Wiseburn schools
continue to battle what has been officially named
as the “Great Recession.” Though funding for our
schools has been cut by the State of California by
nearly 23% since 2008, Wiseburn Schools con-
tinue to make positive strides. The teachers at
Juan de Anza School strengthened their initial
literacy program this year with the introduction of
DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early
Literacy Skills). DIBELS is used with students in
grades K-2 for screening purposes, identifying
next instructional steps, student grouping and Dr. Chris Jones, Principal For the final and deciding round, the top six
targeting specific areas for intervention. Students from Juan de Anza and scorers from each team were called to the stage to
At Juan Cabrillo School, second grade teachers compete in a game of Speed Chess using a clock
have launched the Accelerated Reader program Peter Burnett faced off in the and a giant chess set. After an action-filled game,
that strengthens each student’s reading skills and annual Wiseburn Chess Challenge. Anza came away with the trophy, with the final
encourages students to read more and strive for score of 51 to 39 points.
higher levels. Cabrillo School is also in the process This tournament event was held in the Guerrero Chess is promoted at both Burnett and Anza as a
of launching a Growing Great program with 14 Multi-Purpose Center on Friday, April 30, 2010. game that builds important life skills such as logic,
brand new planter boxes. Students participated in a 60 minute round of strategic planning, and spatial reasoning. A big thank
SEE SUPERINTENDENT • PAGE 11 general play, earning points for each check mate or you goes out to Chess Test Tutors for sponsoring
stale mate. At the end of the first round only two and coordinating the event.
points separated the two schools. Congratulations to all of our participants.
Wiseburn School District Board of Education Your Reading
Electives Inside:
Neighborhood Assoc. ..........Page 2
PTA’s ....................................................2
Wiseburn Ed. Foundation ..............3
Wiseburn District Schools:
Da Vinci Charter Schools ..........4–5
Juan de Anza ....................................6
Peter Burnett ....................................7
Vistamar..............................................7
Dennis Curtis Nelson Martinez Roger Bañuelos Israel A. Mora Brian Meath
President Member Member Member Juan Cabrillo......................................8
Clerk
Richard Henry Dana ........................9
www.schoolnewsrollcall.com
Neighborhood Associations PTA’s
Del Aire
John Koppleman, President • 310/531-7111 www.del-aire.info
Anza PTA
Spring has Sprung Gwen Perius, President
Cherry season is upon us at the Hawthorne Del Aire Farmers Market. Very Important Volunteers
Our little Market is growing and has a very nice collection of flowers, fruits,
vegetables including Asian vegetables like bok choy, Dwarf Choy Sum, Pak Choy At Juan de Anza, we love our volunteers. At our April PTA meeting, we
and more. Our apple and pear farmer also carries jujube for making jujube tea. recognized each of our Very Important Volunteers. The evening was attended by
There are spices, fresh fish and lobsters. Not to forget the farm fresh eggs and many of our volunteers, teachers and staff. We enjoyed a wonderful dinner
chicken. We now have added an all organic farmer to the mix! donated by Delzano’s by the Sea, Tony’s Pizza and Subs and Whole Foods. To
Come join us on Saturdays from 9:00 AM until 1:00 PM at 135th and Aviation date, we have a record of more than 6,700 volunteer hours! Thank you everyone.
(Divinci school) and let our reflexologist rub your feet with essential oils! In May, we had another successful evening at Island’s Restaurant in Manhattan
Village. We are always grateful for this well-attended and fun family event.
In June we had our first annual Adult Social Fundraiser Night at Delzano’s by
Wiseburn the Sea in Redondo Beach. The evening gave us a spectacular beach sunset,
email: wiseburnwatch@aol.com fantastic food, and dancing to a DJ. This event was well-attended by teachers,
staff and parents, who were happy to celebrate the end of the school year in a
way that will boost our budget for the coming year.
Watch Update The Anza PTA has worked very hard this past year and is planning for our
future. We wish everyone in our community a safe and healthy summer, and look
Wiseburn Watch is a neighborhood watch program dedicated to the Wiseburn forward to seeing you in the fall.
community. The goals of Wiseburn Watch are to maintain, protect, and enhance
our neighborhood. Wiseburn Watch strives to create and maintain positive,
productive relationships with law enforcement, county officials, and other groups
with common interests. We are working to decrease crime and graffiti in the Burnett PTA
community, provide for the needs of the neighborhood and increase disaster pre- Jennifer Morgan, President • 310/990-5455
paredness.
Started in 2007, Wiseburn Watch has grown to over three hundred members A Busy Spring for the PTA
strong. We invite any homeowner, property owner, or leaseholder within the
Wiseburn community (properties east of the 405 freeway, west of Inglewood We were able to provide two field trips to each grade level, thanks to the
Avenue and south of El Segundo Blvd., north of Rosecrans) to attend a Watch fundraising efforts of our members.
meeting or contact us at wiseburnwatch@aol.com for more information. Our Growing Great Nutrition program was a huge success! The program is
Wiseburn Watch is involved in a variety of community activities and issues of paid for by the Wiseburn Education Foundation. We were able to teach five
concern. Wiseburn Watch has worked closely with County officials to improve safety lessons to each class at Peter Burnett. Thank you to all our Parent volunteers,
conditions along the La Cienega corridor. Wiseburn Watch is currently looking to as this program would not be possible without you!
bring much needed open green space to our neighborhood. This has been an ongoing The school year is coming to an end with many more exciting things to come
cooperative effort with the Watch and Supervisor Mark Ridley Thomas’ office. for students. We will miss all our fifth grade families moving to Dana next year.
We are continuing our effort to get the Wiseburn community disaster prepared. We have many open PTA positions for the 2010-11 school year. If you are
We have begun to form a committee to create a disaster plan for Wiseburn. We interested in volunteering, please contact Jennifer Morgan at 310-990-5455.
encourage all families to create their own disaster plan and have a disaster supply
kit with enough food, water and supplies to sustain your family for 7-10 days.
Wiseburn Watch is planning a community event for National Night Out on the Cabrillo PTA
evening of Tuesday August 3rd at the Oceangate Baptist Church. The event will Andra Taylor, President • 310/297-0855
include a raffle of a brand new cherry red Beach Cruiser. Tickets will be pre sold
at our meetings and the evening of the event. Look for more information to come! 1st Annual Casino Night
We hope all Wiseburn residents will take an interest in the community and
join us at a watch meeting! Date: Friday, June 18, 2010
Time: 7:00- 11:00pm
Place: The Proud Bird, 11022 Aviation Blvd., Los Angeles
Join us for a parents night out and support the Cabrillo PTA.
Tickets for the event are $35 a person and include a selection of appetizers
and pastries, coffee and tea, and 200 “Funny Money” dollars to spend on
gambling at the blackjack, poker, craps or roulette tables. A selection of raffle
prizes will also be available and gambling chips/ Funny Money may be exchanged
for raffle tickets. Adult beverages, sodas, and additional Funny Money will be
available for purchase at the event.
ADULTS ONLY, PLEASE!
A limited number of tickets available. June 11 is the last day to purchase
tickets. Tickets will be available for purchase at Cabrillo’s Open House on
May 26th, and before school on June 9th & 11th.
For tickets or questions contact Janine Gertsch at 310-740-1982 or
janinegertsch@gmail.com
2 S CHOOL N EWS R OLL C ALL
Wiseburn Education Foundation
13530 Aviation Blvd., Hawthorne, CA 90250
310/643-3025 ext. 55 www.wiseburnedfoundation.org
board@wiseburnedfoundation.org
Rock Around the Block
By Scott Morgan, President
On Saturday, April 24th the Wiseburn Education
Foundation held their annual Rock Around the Block
event at the new Juan Cabrillo School campus. For
the first time ever, our event was opened with our
very own Dana jazz band playing our national anthem. We had a record number
attendance for this year’s event that enjoyed the many rides and games such as
the bungee jump, train ride, human hamster ball, dunk tank, video game truck,
balloon pop and the dual obstacle course. With the tough economic times in our
country and within our own state’s budget cuts, we raised over $20,000 that will
be used for programs that support all four schools. Our annual event cannot take
place without the energy from our volunteers. The WEF would like to thank the
many volunteer heroes who made this year’s event possible. You truly “stepped
up” again this year.
We would also like to thank the following contributors to this year’s event.
Windstar, Directv, Pipkin Family Foundation, The Goodlick Company, Rick
Porter & the Rainbow River Staff, Celestron Telescopes, California Highway Patrol,
LA Fire house #160, National Food Service, U.S. Food Service & David Gilner,
Teen Challenge, Mr. Rod, New Zealand Ice Cream, Southbay Ford, Chevron and
Anthony at AMK Design (who donates our volunteer shirts each year).
A “Thank You” also goes out to the many families for attending and your
donations to our cause, which is to help our school district continue to be strong
and provide our students with the resources they need to prevail.
COVERING THE W ISEBURN S CHOOL D ISTRICT JUNE – OCTOBER 2010 3
Da Vinci Charter Schools
13500 Aviation Blvd., Hawthorne, CA 90250
310/725-5800 www.wiseburncharters.org
By Dr. Matthew Wunder, Executive Director If your family has moved into the area after the lottery application deadline,
WASC Accreditation please contact us. We have set aside a small number of enrollment slots for resi-
We are extremely proud to announce that Da Vinci Design and Da Vinci dents who meet eligibility requirements.
Science—known collectively as Da Vinci Schools—are now fully accredited by
the Schools Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Da Vinci Students Win First, Second Place at L.A. County Science Fair,
(WASC). Da Vinci Schools have been granted a four-year term of accreditation Headed to State Science Fair
retroactive to the opening of the schools in August 2009 and continuing through Da Vinci sophomore Jared C. and freshman Brian V. took home top honors at
June 30, 2013. the 60th Annual Los Angeles County Science Fair that was held April 14-16,
The WASC Visiting Committee singled out for recognition our high-quality 2010. Jared took First Place in Physics for his “Thermal Conductivity of Roof
learning environment and our supportive partnerships with local businesses and Color” project. Brian earned Second Place for his Engineering Applications
corporations. project, “Blowout: Acoustic Fire Extinguisher.” Jared and Brian qualified to
In addition to the areas of strength noted above, the WASC Visiting compete in the California State Science Fair that will be held on May 17-18 at
Committee found that Da Vinci Schools have developed a system to serve the California Science Center in Los Angeles. Jared and Brian were supported by
students with different learning needs; we have a clear sense of purpose and Da Vinci engineering teacher Mario Rodriguez and parent Marshall Vallelunga.
direction; parents and students feel valued and connected to our schools; Congratulations to our young scientists, and to their teacher and mentor!!
students are happy and productive; and teachers have positive attitudes about
students and their learning, providing students with high levels of self-confidence.
This accreditation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, Project-Based Learning and Exhibition
faculty, staff, families, board members, and community partners. Da Vinci Schools prepare students for future success via a real-world, “learn
WASC is one of six regional associations that accredit public and private by doing” curriculum that is aligned with the California content standards and
schools, colleges, and universities in the United States. WASC accreditation is a exceeds the UC and CSU “a-g” requirements. Da Vinci students do not sit
voluntary process that provides a certification to the public that schools must be passively at desks listening to teacher-directed lectures and memorizing facts.
worthy of the trust placed in them to provide high-quality learning opportunities Instead, students are actively engaged in authentic, real-world tasks that are
and clearly demonstrate continual self-improvement. Graduation from an relevant and meaningful. Students “learn by doing” in an immersive, project-
accredited high school is required by most colleges and universities and financial based environment that emphasizes critical thinking, problem solving, technology
aid institutions. For more information about WASC, please contact: Western literacy, and teamwork—all skills that are vital to academic and lifelong success.
Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Schools,
533 Airport Blvd., Suite 200, Burlingame, CA 94010, Tel. (650) 696-1060.
We are thrilled with the recognition that this accreditation brings us, and we
will continue our commitment to ensuring that all Da Vinci students graduate
college-ready, career-prepared, and community-minded.
Congratulations to the entire Wiseburn/Da Vinci community!
Enrollment Update
Da Vinci Schools will admit about 240 new students in 9th grade and about
16 students in 10th and 11th grades for the 2010-2011 school year. These are
approximate numbers because the number of returning students can only be
estimated.
The residents of Wiseburn receive an admission preference to attend the
Da Vinci Schools because the high schools were developed to serve Wiseburn
residents. If Wiseburn students/families submit a “Resident Intent to Enroll
(Lottery Form)” by the last working day in January they are guaranteed
admission. (In 2011, the last working day in January is Monday the 31st.)
Charter law requires that a lottery be held if the number of students applying
for admission exceeds the number of students we are accepting. Residents
must still fill out the Resident Intent to Enroll (Lottery Form) indicating
their desire to attend Da Vinci. The reasons for this are: (1) to stay in com-
pliance with charter school law; (2) not all Dana Middle School 8th graders
will choose to attend Da Vinci; (3) we wish to be fair to all students who are
on our waiting list. Next year, in addition to the extensive communication
about our lottery process that currently occurs, we will attempt to contact
each resident with an 8th grader attending Dana Middle School if we do not
receive their lottery form within a week of the lottery, which will be held in
February 2011. The lottery date has been moved from January to February
to allow more time for residents to let us know their intention of attending
Da Vinci Schools.
For those applicants who have been wait listed, your continued patience
is appreciated. There’s no way to predict the timing or number of applicants
who may be admitted from the wait list. We just ask that you notify us if
you no longer wish to remain on the wait list and that you provide us with Alyssa T., a ninth grade Science student, thoughtfully discusses Augustin Pinochet’s
up-to-date contact information. rise to power with parent Mauricio Lopez. Alyssa created a paper mache balloon
documenting the life of the Chilean dictator who she called the “Hitler of Chile.”
4 S CHOOL N EWS R OLL C ALL
Early College
Da Vinci students are required to complete at least three community
college classes on-site as they simultaneously earn a high school diploma.
At Da Vinci Schools, we believe Early College is an important tool to
increase both high school graduation and college enrollment rates, preparing
students for high-skill careers by engaging them in a college preparatory
curriculum and compressing the number of years to earn a college degree.
Currently, Da Vinci Schools offer two college level courses in collaboration
with El Camino College: Group Discussion (Speech) and Robotics. The
robotics curriculum is developed in partnership with Project Lead The Way,
the nation’s premier provider of science, technology, engineering and math
(STEM) education curriculum. Da Vinci students begin taking Early College
classes once assessment demonstrates their readiness to succeed at college-
level work. For some students, this may be as early as the second semester
freshman year; for others, it may not be until senior year. There is no cost
associated with Da Vinci Schools’ Early College program.
Ninth grade Science students Ariana M. and Catherine R., representing Zimbabwe, show off Community Partners
traditional drums, bows and arrows to Kyle L. of Team Macedonia. Ariana and Catherine Da Vinci Schools’ Community Partners are essential to our success.
studied Tourism, Cultural Pride & the Arts. They learned the ways in which Zimbabwe’s Da Vinci Schools have as one of our highest priorities to integrate students’
culture is similar to and different from American culture, as well as the importance of learning experiences with the real world. Through strategic community
looking at the world from a different perspective. Zimbabwe won the proposal competition partnerships, Da Vinci Schools faculty and students gain access to expert
to host the Olympic Games at Da Vinci Schools. Way to go, Team Zimbabwe!! knowledge, a cutting-edge curriculum, internship opportunities, academic
mentoring, teacher training, early college programs, career guidance, job
At our recent shadow experiences, and much more. In addition, industry is able to
Exhibition Night, genuinely affect learning outcomes by defining the skill sets needed for
students presented 21st century jobs that are hard to fill while developing a talent pool of
their major projects diverse and well-trained employees.
from the semester to Some of our Community Partners include: Northrop Grumman, Belkin
an audience of International, The Boeing Company, Cal Poly Pomona, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo,
students, parents, Cal State University-Los Angeles, Chevron, Com Dev USA, El Camino College,
faculty, subject- Grandparents as Parents, High Tech High, iNACOL, Los Angeles Small School
matter experts, Center, LMU School of Education, Mattel, Otis College of Art & Design, Project
mentors, community Lead The Way, Raytheon, reDiscover Center, UCLA, United Friends of the
members and industry Children, USC, and West L.A. College.
professionals. Using Chevron has been instrumental in helping Da Vinci Schools create a rigorous
oral presentations and and engaging engineering culture where students learn real skills, solve real
digital media, students problems, and make real discoveries about the world. With the academic
demonstrated how support and financial backing we have received from Chevron, Da Vinci Schools
they were able to created two challenging robotics courses in collaboration with El Camino College
tackle real-world and Project Lead The Way. Da Vinci students enrolled in the college robotics
complex problems. class earn college level credit for the work they complete in high school. Our
This semester, students’ interest in robotics and their recent second place finish in the Northrop
students participated Grumman Innovation Challenge would not be possible without Chevron’s
in a school-wide support. Chevron’s funding has also been used for PLTW teacher training and to
Olympics project. purchase equipment and supplies used in PLTW courses.
Students selected a In addition, Chevron recently awarded Da Vinci Schools an “Energy for
country to study, Learning” grant as part of its $1 million investment in South Bay schools to
learned about its stimulate interest in STEM careers. The funds will be used to develop the
history, culture, new Chevron Center at Da Vinci Schools, which will allow students from both
economic condition, schools to connect, collaborate and innovate with STEM and design experts
government, tourism, from around the world. The funds will also be used to purchase laptop
Michael S., a ninth grade Design student, shows off his research on and transportation, as computers, video conferencing technologies, and mobile laptop carts. The
China’s People’s Liberation Army. The PLA is the world’s largest well as the physics of Chevron Center will also allow students who are ill or not enrolled in Da Vinci
military force with 2.3 million active troops. Military service in Olympic sports. Schools to virtually attend our project-based learning classrooms and to
China is compulsory for all men ages 18 and over. However, a draft
The countries also collaborate with other students.
has never been enforced due to large numbers of volunteers.
competed in an We gratefully acknowledge Chevron and the invaluable assistance of Lily
Academic Decathlon Craig, Chevron’s External Affairs Manager, for supporting STEM success at
and competed against each other for the privilege to host the Olympic Games on Da Vinci Schools and for leading the way in developing innovative public-
campus. Congratulations to Team Haiti and Team Zimbabwe, the winners of the private partnerships to enhance education and drive the future growth of
Academic Decathlon and Host Proposal, respectively. California. Chevron is a vital community partner and friend committed to
Exhibitions are an important component of project-based learning and assess- empowering students to acquire the 21st century skills needed for college
ment, and provide a comprehensive view of each student’s knowledge and and career success.
mastery of the curriculum. Our real-world “learn by doing” curriculum keeps
kids engaged, focused, and on task so they can acquire the skills necessary to be
successful in college and the 21st century workplace.
COVERING THE W ISEBURN S CHOOL D ISTRICT JUNE – OCTOBER 2010 5
Juan de Anza
Elementary School (K–5)
12110 S. Hindry Ave., Del Aire, CA 90250
310/725-2100
By Sean Syed
I am ten years old, and I attend fifth
grade at Juan De Anza Elementary
School. I have recently been accepted
into the Junior National Young Leaders
Conference, which I will be attending
for six days starting on July 3rd. This
program is for middle school students
Dr. Chris Jones
around the country who excel in
Principal
school and show great leadership
potential. I was nominated by my school principal,
Dr. Chris Jones, because he noticed these special
qualities that I posess. I believe that when people will read about this program,
they will realize that if they put forth more effort in their school, career, or any
other manditory applications that are in our every day lives, in the long run,
there will be many benefits, and that if everybody helps, it will lead to a better
community.
Additional Chess Challenge pictures from page 1.
6 S CHOOL N EWS R OLL C ALL
Peter Burnett Elementary School (3–5)
Vistamar School
5403 W. 138th St., Hawthorne, CA 90250 737 Hawaii St., El Segundo, CA
310/725-2151 310/643-7377
Celebrating Chess Club By Ryan Tillson, Director of Admissions and External Relations
As the 2009- 2010 School year comes to an end Peter Burnett ryantillson@vistamarschool.org or 310-643-7377
is reflecting on the successes we have been able to celebrate this
school year. During our Wednesday morning assemblies we have Oxfam America Board Chair, Janet McKinley, Spoke at Vistamar
saluted many students for their hard work and dedication With the stated purpose of “working together to end poverty and injustice,”
throughout the year. Oxfam America has recently been at the forefront of relief efforts in Haiti and
Mr. Keith Pittluck sponsored our Chess Club, which allowed Darfur, while maintaining long-term efforts in micro-financing, education, and
third, fourth, and fifth grade boys and girls an opportunity to learn public health to promote independence and sustainable development throughout
Laura Sullivan
rules, strategies and how to play chess. The students enjoyed the the third world. A new project is identifying and countering the devastating
Principal
challenge and welcomed opportunities to show their talent. effects of climate change on the world’s poorest communities. Ms. McKinley’s
A culminating chess tournament was held at Anza School on April 29, 2010. presentation, “Doing Good Well” and a follow-up conversation with audience
All participants had a wonderful time and both schools competed well and members explored what she has learned about the recalcitrant problems of
enjoyed the hospitality from Anza School and principal, Dr. Chris Jones. global poverty and ways to make philanthropic intervention effective.
Burnett is anxiously awaiting another school year, to compete again and learn Ms. McKinley is recognized throughout the world as a philanthropic leader
more strategies to support their skills and chess knowledge. who has brought the highest level of executive skill and business savvy to
Chess Club members were recognized at a Wednesday morning assembly. international charitable efforts. After 25 successful years in business, including
Mr. Pittluck introduced the chess club participants to the entire student body. directorship of Capital Research and Management Company, which oversees
We are looking forward to more success stories next year. mutual fund assets in excess of $1.3 trillion, she redirected her full attention to
global volunteer efforts. In addition to her work at Oxfam America, she serves on
the boards of Oxfam International, the Deutsche Bank Global Commercial
Microfinance Consortium, MicroCredit Enterprises, and Smith College, from
which she graduate summa cum laude.
Vistamar School is located at 737 Hawaii Street in El Segundo. Please RSVP
to 310-643-7377 or by e-mail to forum@vistamarschool.org .
Vistamar held its last Open House of the year on Thursday, May 20th. We
were excited to be welcoming over 50 new families to our School next year, but
will continue to offer rolling admissions over the coming months. This event was
a great opportunity for families with rising eighth graders to get a jump start on
their high School options along with anyone who is still considering an
Independent High School option for this September. Questions can be directed
to Ryan Tillson at ryantillson@vistamarschool.org or 310-643-7377.
On May 21st, 22nd, and 23rd, the Vistamar Drama Club presented its first
musical, “Guys and Dolls.” Full of memorable songs, exciting dance sequences,
and a vast array of comedic interchanges, “Guys and Dolls” transports its
audience to the underworld of New York City where gamblers and sinners run
the streets. In “Guys and Dolls,” all the hot gamblers are in town, and they’re all
depending on Nathan Detroit to set up this week’s incarnation of The Oldest
Established Permanent Floating Crap Game in New York. Throw in Sarah Brown,
who’s short on sinners at the Save-A-Soul Mission; Sky Masterson, who accepts
Nathan’s $1000 bet that he can’t get Sarah Brown to go with him to Havana;
Miss Adelaide, who wants Nathan to marry her; and Police Lieutenant Brannigan,
who always seems to appear at the wrong time, and you’ve got quite the show!
The performance included a live pit orchestra.
Success Stories
Peter Burnett students celebrated success stories on April 17, 2010. This was
a special day at the Wiseburn Library, where Mrs. Barbara Johnson, Wiseburn
librarian, held the 14th Annual Wiseburn Library Story Writing Contest. There
were over one hundred entries from the various Wiseburn schools. All of the
entries were well written, organized and interesting.
The Burnett Staff found ways to incorporate writing stories into their cur-
riculum, and the boys and girls were thrilled. Teachers and families were invited
to read the winning stories, and see the students receive their special recognition
from the Wiseburn Library. The Burnett families were proud of all the children
for writing outstanding stories and sharing them with the Wiseburn community.
The following teachers and students participated in the contest:
Mrs. Flanders, Gabriel Rodriguez, Emma Hall, Mr. Norman, Molly DeSimone,
Mrs. Lee, Michelle Gil, Kevin Villa, Lawrence D’Souza, Mrs. Thompson, Diego
Gonzalez, and Diamond Bookman.
What a great way to get students ready for the summer reading program!
COVERING THE W ISEBURN S CHOOL D ISTRICT JUNE – OCTOBER 2010 7
Juan Cabrillo Elementary School (K–2)
5309 West 135th St., Hawthorne, CA 90250
310/725-5400
Maintaining Excellence
Cabrillo School is maintaining excellence in our school with the
amazing talents and generosity of our parents working with
teachers to support students! In this issue we highlight 3 events
that thanks to our home-school connection are building and main-
taining excellence: the construction of our Cabrillo garden, a Coast
Guard helicopter landing and visit to Cabrillo School, and our
annual Read-A-Thon.
Margaret Lynch
Principal
Coast Guard Helicopter Landing
Cabrillo students, staff and our community neighbors experienced an actual
Coast Guard helicopter landing on the Cabrillo field. Commander Platt father of
Amelia Platt, in Kelly Schumacher’s Kindergarten TEDDE class, landed the
helicopter and greeted each Kindergarten class that filed by to see this unique
mode of transportation up close. One student expressed the delight of everyone
Cabrillo parents and staff work together to fill the garden boxes with dirt and mulch.
present saying, “This was the best day ever!”
Cabrillo Garden
Cabrillo parents and staff are giving new meaning to our school motto of
“where we grow and learn to together” with the creation of a Cabrillo garden.
Bill Denney, district maintenance director, Liza Hough-Skovron, Cabrillo first
grade teacher, and Michelle Nieves, Cabrillo parent of first grader Allison Nieves,
are coordinating the purchase of materials and parent volunteer efforts to build
and paint the 14 garden boxes that will create an outdoor classroom. Siobhan
and Cameron Scott, parents of first grader Aiden, provided the plumbing line
from the drinking fountain so we can have drip irrigation in each box. This year’s
students will have a spring planting for a fall harvest. A donation to PTA specifi-
cally supports bringing the garden to life.
Read-A-Thon
Reading excellence at Cabrillo is recognized and celebrated throughout the
year. Most recently, top readers for quantity of pages and top readers for quantity
of pledges for our spring read-a-thon were honored. Top readers from each grade
went to story hour at Barnes and Nobles and selected their own new book. Top
pledge earners from each grade went to lunch at Islands. Cabrillo students read
over 23,000 pages. All students who participated in the read-a-thon received a
bookmark. Congratulations to all our readers!!
Commander Platt (far right), father of Amelia Platt in TEDDE, explains to
Kindergarten students how helicopters can be used to rescue people from the water.
Malaika Campbell (1st), Ben Jussen (2nd), and Clayton Skaggs (K) Natalie Mazzio (K), Dylan Ryan (1st), and Debbie Recinos (2nd) select books at Barnes and
enjoy lunch at Islands as top pledge earners in the Cabrillo Read-a-thon. Nobles as the top readers in the Cabrillo Read-a-thon.
8 S CHOOL N EWS R OLL C ALL
Richard Henry Dana
Middle School (6–8)
5504 W. 135th St., Hawthorne, CA 90250
310/725-4700
Dana Math Teachers Learn Together Students Compete in
This year Dana’s math teachers have participated in the Underwater Robotics
California Math and Science Teaching (CMAST) program through Competition
Loyola Marymount University (LMU). Funded by a Boeing Dana’s Remotely Operated
Corporation grant, teachers meet monthly to collaborate with Vehicle (ROV) team placed third
CMAST mentors in trainings dedicated to increasing student behind the California Academy of
engagement and achievement in mathematics. CMAST mentors Math and Science (CAMS) and
also work in teachers’ classrooms, keeping a focus on finding Palos Verdes High School at the
Aileen Harbeck solutions to challenges faced by mathematics students. With 10th annual Southern California
Principal
CMAST, Dana’s teachers remain dedicated to transforming the Flyoff, an underwater robot com-
teaching and learning of mathematics. petition sponsored by the Center
out of Monterey Bay. This year’s
Engaging Students Is Key to an Excellent Education event attracted over 20 local
Dana continues to move students into the 21st century with technology in the college, high school, and middle
classroom. Classroom sets of wireless student response devices provide the tools school ROV teams. Dana’s team
needed to actively engage every student in a classroom. Using these devices in was the only middle school
classes, students are eager to participate and can see results immediately. Dana competing in the Ranger Division.
continues to offer the most up-to-date technology to support students as they More information is available at
learn and grow. www.marinetech.org.
Marathon Team Succeeds
Twelve determined Dana students, along with PE teacher Mr. Rodriguez, running on weekends and afternoons. For several runners, this is a second
completed the LA Marathon this past March. The team trained for six months, marathon achievement, and for one outstanding eighth grade student, a third.
COVERING THE W ISEBURN S CHOOL D ISTRICT JUNE – OCTOBER 2010 9
Maintaining Excellence in Wiseburn Appeal
The following is a list of individuals and companies that have made generous contributions as of Thursday, May 13, 2010
SUPPORTERS Collins, Caroline Pasco, Angelina Chilton, Samantha Dill, Karen
Pankratz, Emery/Elaine Colwell, Denise Perius, Mr. & Mrs. Todd Conde, Pamela Dizon, Arlene
Feuerborn, Kathleen Conley, Melanie/Steven Phelps, Ellaine/Marc Davis, Keith Dulmage, Jill/Dan
Friends Unlimited Cornejo, Maria/David Piercy, Gina Dsouza, Lordwin Ely, Tyler
Libby, Rodney Crain, Susan/William Pita, Robert Duncan, Patricia/Larry Garcia, Juan
Martin, Rhonda Crist, Brian Quintanilla, Ethel Espana, Kathleen Golden, Venus
MedReach, Inc. Davies, Laura Rachal, Marie/Gregory Felt, Debbie/Marc Golston, Lon/Renee
Krauss, Randi/William Denliner Family Ramos, Beatriz/Eric Flores, Carol/Jorge Gonzalez, Cynthia
Silva, Jennifer DeVarona, Gina Rampen, Katie/Ernst Gebhart, Sharon Gray, Candy
Silverman, Maddy Dizon, Arlene Ramsey, Nancy Gebhart, Gary Hamilton, Johnny/Theresa
Sophiea, Marylynn Downer, Liza Raymond, Jacqueline Glenn, Bernadette/Clayton Harbeck, Aileen
Spiwak, Steven/Jody Ekejiuba, Jane/Kingsley Reynoso de Gomez, Yvette Guzman, Veronica Henriquez, Elmer
Spiwak, Michael/Jane Fausto, Cecilia Rivera, Wanda Hubler, Renee Hirsch, Margaret/Howard
Unihealth Foundation Fong, Adela Rodriguez, Y Jantzen, Esther Hosier, Joyce
Zielonka, Rhamona Ford, Ramona/Brian Romero, Paul Jasko, Jim Ilaya, Daisy
Fuso Family Rowe, Kimberly Kehl, Mediatrix/Russel Jackson, Gerry
RETIREES Garrison, Cameron Schaeffer, Jennifer Lallemand, Maria/Maurice Kacvinsky, Susan/Thomas
Bell, Helen Givens, Laura Sieve Family Longley, Sherry Keahey, Karen
Blyther, Jo Alice Giverink, Jamie/John Smith-Konecny, Patricia Ludwig, Jennifer/John LaCour, Sheila
Brann, Donald Gonzalez Family Spencer, Shon/Shanay Lynch, Margaret/Patrick Lagunas, Esther/Juan
Churnside, Phil Grundman, Patty/Tom Sutton, Jeanne Miller, Eileen Laszacs, Rebecca
Comitz, Jane Gwynne, Steve Syed, Karni/Bobby Montgomery, P. A. Lelea, Ruzana/George
Elliott, Constance Hardy, Aquanetta Taylor, Nichole/Richard Nguyen, Trang/Dao Letchworth, Tara
Goethe, Anne Hernandez, Ana & Eduardo Thomas, Sharon Odell, Glen/Mary Martinez, Carol
Hillman, Virginia Herrera, Monica Tsukahira, Lupe Post, Vendetta McCloud, Janine/Eric
Martin, Lolita Hill-Ray, Stacy Vadgama, Sara/Sanjay Primbsch, Amy/Michael Mendoza, Cynthia
Rogers, Jo Ann Hirsch, Margaret/Howard Valente, Hector Requena, Robin Mojonnier, Scott
Sedillo, Rise Hobson, Nancy Whitfield, Nicole Rodas, Erika Moreno, Anabela
Smiley, Jeanne Hosier, Joyce Wilson, Mary/Tanya Rodriguez, Maria O’Louglin-Villa, Ellen/Jaime
Ibrahim, John Ryan, Teri Ornelas, Louie/Collette
EMPLOYEES Ibrahim, R. PETER BURNETT SCHOOL Ryan, Karla/Matt Overby, Cassandra
Bullocks, Anthony Jeffery, Jana’e Andriacchi, Susan/John Salazar, Elmer Perez, Oscar
Chow, Debbie Jimenez, Jorge Banuelos, Rogelio/Minerva Schubert, Catherine Quintero, Michelle
Cox, Thomas Johnstone, Tom/Terry Bautista, Yolanda/Damaso Schumacher Family Rams, Cheryl/Jose
Denney, Bill Jones, Dr. Chris Cime, Victor Seekins, Jon Riley, Marjorie
Frederick, Denise Kartvedt, Nan Marie/Mikal Cortez, Bernadino Simms, Richard Rivera, Wanda
Gonzalez, Gilbert/Zonnia Kattan, Vicki/Rudolph Diette, Joan Spiwack, Michael Robles, Paula
Houzvicka, Grace/Todd Kramer, Jon/Sandra Eusebio, Jocelyn Thatcher, Laura Romero, Dulce/Paul
Johnstone, Tom/Terry Lam, To Trinh/Andrew Flanders, Jennifer Torres, Angelica/Leonardo Russell, Carolyn
Montes, Ana Leake, Daphne/Carlos Kawamoto, Yoshiaki/Yoshiko Trobaugh, Sue/Alex Salgado, Luz/Javier
Tecun, Silke Lelea, Ruzana/George Le, Dep Thi Valiente, Barbara/Joe Smith, Rufus
Letchworth, Tara Major, Bill Velevski, Violeta Snider, Elizabeth
JUAN DE ANZA SCHOOL Levenson, Carla Matthias, Melissa/Bill Zirbel, DeeDee/Joseph Soriano, Rose/Dennis
Abril, Niurka Malone, Rita Mazzotti, Carol Strings, Cynthia/Mark
Akinwole, Victoria/Rotimi Mashal, Lane/Steven Meskill Family DANA MIDDLE SCHOOL Stuart, Bessie/David
Altholz, Andrew Medina, Martha/Jose Morgan, Jennifer/Scott Andrade, Evelyn Svorinich, Catherine
Andal, Celestina Menke, Dawn/Harold Nabors, Betty Aragon, Liliana Tani, Robin
Belisle, Danielle Mills, Corrine/Fred Primbsch, Amy/Michael Barnett, Vincent Taylor, Victor
Bellante, Stacy/Michael Mills, Kristin Rourke, Darlene Basany, Daniel Tetreault, Denise
Bredow, Jill/Rob Miyahara, Chiyo Rubio’s Landscape, Inc. Bradley, Deborah Theus, Reggie/Elaine
Brown, Maria/Durrell Mohammedi, Ali Saldana, Maria Brown Taylor, Didra Thomas, Curtis
Brown, Kelvin Moore, Allison Sanchez, Denise Butze, Stephan/Elaine Thompson Family
Brown, Kelvin Morales, Carmen Sweeney, Dorothy/James Castillo, Danette/Eloy Tran, Debbie
Carr, Glafy Morris, Hyacinth Williams, Sharon/Steven Clark, Marti/Ray Trejo, Luis
Carrillo, Maria/Manuel Neal, Mary Colwell, Denise Valdez, Lillian/Kevin
Castro, Sonia Ngai, Kevin JUAN CABRILLO SCHOOL Conley, Melanie/Steven Velez, Carlos
Ceja, Elizabeth/Mareclino Norton, Daniel Frank & Kristin Anaya, Sarah Cordero, Graciela Williams, Brenda/Richard
Cessor, Christina/Linda Offokansi, Chika Andriacchi, Susan/John Coulbourne, Susan
Colebank, Julia/Scott Ortega, Christina/Sabino Brenner, Michael Croft, Lori
Collins, Anita/Chuck Paranal, Brenda/Victor Cawthon, Bridget Davis, Richard Thank You!
10 S CHOOL N EWS R OLL C ALL
SUPERINTENDENT • FROM PAGE 1
At Peter Burnett School, teachers are refining the Response
to Intervention program and are addressing specific needs of
individual students through “universal access.” Burnett
teachers and students are in the process of moving into four
new classrooms, a new computer lab and a new library.
Planning is also under way for a beautiful new multi-purpose
room.
Sixth grade math/science teachers at Dana Middle School
and the seventh and eighth grade math teachers are working
Dr. Tom Johnstone with Loyola Marymount University’s Center for Math and
Science Teaching (CMAST) program to build on the success of
the math department and support the professional development of our teachers.
The Boeing Corporation, Northrup Grumman and Raytheon have been extremely
supportive of mathematics instruction at Dana.
All students in grades 2 through 8 are taking the California Standards Tests
(CST) during the month of May and the results will be made public in August.
The strong instructional program continues to be our Number One priority.
As all of you in the community are well aware, the Wiseburn Community
(Chief Petitioners) and the Wiseburn School District have been actively pursuing
unification (a process where Wiseburn high school age students would be able to
leave Centinela Valley Union High School District and Wiseburn would become a
K-12 district). Overall, the Wiseburn community has been dissatisfied with the
performance of the high schools in Centinela Valley for the past 20+ years. Since
2004, Centinela Valley has been the lowest performing school district in Los
Angeles County and ranks among the 12 lowest achieving districts in the entire
state of California (over 1,000 districts). In September 2009, only 21 students from
Dana Middle School’s 8th grade graduating class enrolled in Centinela Valley
schools, while 157 Dana graduates enrolled in the Da Vinci Charter Schools.
It is a huge concern to taxpayers in Del Aire, Hollyglen and Wiseburn that
they will need to continue to pay for future school construction projects in
Centinela Valley, even though or very few Wiseburn students go to school there.
The unification issue was scheduled to go before the California State Board of
Education on May 7. The California Department of Education (CDE) recom-
mended that the State Board approve Wiseburn’s Unification Petition and that
this issue be put on the ballot for a public vote. However, the CDE also recom-
mended that the public vote be conducted throughout the Centinela Valley, to
include voters in Hawthorne, Lawndale, Lennox and Wiseburn. This is a 180° flip
flop from the CDE recommendation in 2004 where CDE ultimately recommended
a Wiseburn-only vote. This 2004 recommendation was approved by the State
Board on a 10-0 vote. Before the unification issue could be brought before the
Wiseburn voters in the spring of 2005, Centinela Valley filed a lawsuit alleging
that the unification issue had insufficient environmental review. It has taken
nearly six years for the State to complete the Environmental Impact Report so
Wiseburn unification could again be placed on the State Board Agenda.
The wide-area vote that includes the entire Centinela Valley is very problematic
for the Wiseburn community. Voters from outside of Wiseburn will be able to
vote on whether or not Wiseburn should be able to continue to pay off the
school construction bonds from Centinela Valley’s Measure C (2000) and
Measure CV (2008). The communities of Hawthorne, Lawndale and Lennox will
also be able to determine if Wiseburn taxpayers should continue to pay on all
future Centinela Valley School Construction Bonds, even though less than 8% of
our Dana graduates are enrolling in Centinela Valley schools. Wiseburn is
drastically outnumbered in a wide-area election as only 12.2% of the total voters
in Centinela Valley live within our district boundaries.
A wide-area vote pits Wiseburn voters against nearly insurmountable odds.
For this reason, the Chief Petitioners and the Wiseburn School District
requested a delay of our hearing with the State Board while we consult with
legal counsel and explore other options for a local solution to our high school
dilemma. We will continue to provide the community with updated and accurate
information as this issue continues to unfold.
Wiseburn School District
13530 Aviation Blvd., Hawthorne, CA 90250
(310) 643-3025
COVERING THE W ISEBURN S CHOOL D ISTRICT JUNE – OCTOBER 2010 11