A teacher described her desire to monitor her unruly classroom with a
camera,  but was told by an administrator that surveillance violates
privacy laws.  This seems a misinterpretation. Does anyone have
definitive knowledge supporting either side?

Todd Groves

Todd:
I moved to NC in 2005.  They have cameras in the schools here.  The
only place they don't have them is in the locker rooms and the
restrooms.  They are in the classrooms, hallways and monitor around the
outside of the school.  This is how they caught a couple of kids who
tagged the school as well as fights.  I don't know about CA laws but
there may/may not be a federal law that allows it.  I know that the
privacy laws for a student do not apply when it comes to searching
their lockers, so I am wondering how an obvious camera can violate the
same privacy laws.  The principal at our school told me that it not
only helps catch fights and other problems, but also prevents them.  My
kids have never felt safer in school.

Jennifer Felix

--- In wccusdtalk@yahoogroups.com, "Todd Groves" <tag1022@...> wrote:
>
> A teacher described her desire to monitor her unruly classroom with a
> camera,  but was told by an administrator that surveillance violates
> privacy laws.  This seems a misinterpretation. Does anyone have
> definitive knowledge supporting either side?
>
> Todd Groves
>

Todd,

This would be my suggestion.

The teacher should get a log book of some type. Every infraction that happens in
her classroom she would document. Date, time, student name and how it was
handled with follow up included.

Example:

2/3/08
10:20 am

Student: John Smith

John would not stay in his seat and was causing a distraction during a history
quiz. I felt he was a security risk.

I asked John to return to his seat and he refused. He was becoming more
aggressive and I feared for the safety of the other students. I called for
security and when they came John had returned to his seat and he told security
he had a cramp and needed to walk around but he was ok now. The other students
would not say anything. Security felt he was not a threat and left him in the
room. After security left John got out of his seat and came up to my desk in a
threatening manner. I immediately gave him a pass to go see the Principal and he
left the room.

I followed up with the Principal and found that John had not go down to the
office. I asked the Principal to call John out of his next class and talk with
him. The Principal said she would take care of it.

The next day John came to class and when I asked him if the Principal spoke with
him he said, "That bitch knows better than to mess with me." He went to his seat
and slept through the class.

End of scenario.

Now the teacher has written documentation and can take it to the next level, her
union and the school board.

If she is trying to run a educationally sound classroom and not getting support
from the school administration than she has no alternative than to try and
change or correct the administration of the school.

Easier said than done, but as long as the teachers remain silent, then we the
public will continue to get the fluff pieces mailed out by the Superintendent
stating how safe and educationally sound our schools are. The teachers are the
publics eyes and ears as to what goes on in the classrooms. If the teachers
remain silent then, poor administrators and unruly students, will continue to
get away with making the classrooms of our district unsafe and non educational
environments.

Kevin




To: wccusdtalk@...: tag1022@...: Sun, 2 Mar 2008
21:37:47 +0000Subject: [wccusdtalk] security cameras in school




A teacher described her desire to monitor her unruly classroom with acamera, but
was told by an administrator that surveillance violatesprivacy laws. This seems
a misinterpretation. Does anyone havedefinitive knowledge supporting either
side? Todd Groves






_________________________________________________________________
Helping your favorite cause is as easy as instant messaging. You IM, we give.
http://im.live.com/Messenger/IM/Home/?source=text_hotmail_join

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

At Island High School in Alameda, they have installed cameras in several
indoor areas of the school to curb and monitor student behavior.  They have
had problems with fighting, graffiti, destruction of property, theft, etc.
I believe they have had success in identifying students that have misbehaved
and also have videotape as evidence if the matter becomes criminal or needed
for expulsion hearings.  I am not sure what legal postings, declarations or
agreements were needed but it seems to have curbed behavior at the school
site.



Michael Wasilchin

Business Agent

Public Employees Union, Local One

4197 Lakeside Dr., Suite # 170

Richmond, CA 94806

Telephone # - (510) 222 - 5012

Fax # - (510) 222 - 8858



   _____

From: wccusdtalk@yahoogroups.com [mailto:wccusdtalk@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf Of imcookielady
Sent: Sunday, March 02, 2008 7:44 PM
To: wccusdtalk@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [wccusdtalk] Re: security cameras in school



Todd:
I moved to NC in 2005. They have cameras in the schools here. The
only place they don't have them is in the locker rooms and the
restrooms. They are in the classrooms, hallways and monitor around the
outside of the school. This is how they caught a couple of kids who
tagged the school as well as fights. I don't know about CA laws but
there may/may not be a federal law that allows it. I know that the
privacy laws for a student do not apply when it comes to searching
their lockers, so I am wondering how an obvious camera can violate the
same privacy laws. The principal at our school told me that it not
only helps catch fights and other problems, but also prevents them. My
kids have never felt safer in school.

Jennifer Felix

--- In wccusdtalk@yahoogro <mailto:wccusdtalk%40yahoogroups.com> ups.com,
"Todd Groves" <tag1022@...> wrote:
>
> A teacher described her desire to monitor her unruly classroom with a
> camera, but was told by an administrator that surveillance violates
> privacy laws. This seems a misinterpretation. Does anyone have
> definitive knowledge supporting either side?
>
> Todd Groves
>





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

-------- Original Message --------
Subject:  March 5 board meeting
Date:  Mon, 3 Mar 2008 11:47:34 -0800
From:  Ehara, Paul <PEhara@...>



The February 29 e-Weekly incorrectly listed the date of the next board
meeting as March 3.  The correct date is March 5.  I apologize for any
inconvenience this may have caused.



Best,

Paul



*   *   *

Paul Ehara, director of communications

West Contra Costa Unified School District

1108 Bissell Avenue, Rm. 215

Richmond, CA 94801-3135

PEhara@... <mailto:PEhara@...>

Office: 510.231.1133 / Cell: 510.619.6964 / Fax: 510.620-2242

-------- Original Message --------
Subject:  March message from Superintendent Bruce Harter
Date:  Mon, 3 Mar 2008 11:43:31 -0800
From:  Ehara, Paul <PEhara@...>



Superintendent Harter’s March message is also posted at
www.wccusd.net/superintendent/message/2008/03.shtml
<http://www.wccusd.net/superintendent/message/2008/03.shtml>.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

March 2008

*Listening to Our Community*

Text Box: In February the district’s Community Budget Advisory Committee
hosted six meetings to gather feedback about the serious financial
challenges that the district faces. With ever-increasing costs,
particularly in health benefits, the decline in student enrollment, and
the Governor’s budget proposal, we’re looking at a reduction of $10.4
million in expenses going into 2008-09.

In 2003-04 the district faced a similar situation. That year the
district eliminated 22 jobs and cut $1.3 million from expenses in
mid-year. For 2004-05 the district reduced another 106 positions, cut
another $2 million to the 2005-06 budget, and sliced off an additional
$2.6 million for 2007-08. During these years we’ve eliminated 162 jobs.
But all that looks small compared to what we face for 2008-09. The same
three factors—rising health benefit costs, declining enrollment, and
reductions in state funding—will make this spring the most financially
difficult in many years.

More than 600 people—parents, staff and community members—attended the
meetings in February. After making a brief presentation of the financial
challenges* we’re facing, Associate Superintendent Sheri Gamba asked
attendees to respond to three questions: What programs and services
should never be cut? What programs and services, while important, are
ones that could be reduced or eliminated? And how should the district go
about enhancing its revenues?

Text Box: Among the most frequently cited items that should never be cut
were the core academic programs—reading, math, writing, science, social
studies and second language acquisition. Keeping the class size
reduction program was also mentioned often. Others include the arts,
athletics, advanced placement, special education, after-school programs,
and maintenance of the school buildings. Teachers, counselors,
librarians and principals headed the list of staff that many felt
shouldn’t be reduced. Maintaining the safety program—which includes
school resource officers and campus supervisors—and not cutting employee
benefits were also frequently mentioned.

When those in attendance were asked what they’d be willing to reduce,
the list was shorter but included suggestions for reducing outside
consultants, central office administrators, class-size maximums, utility
expenses, limiting new adoptions of text books, employee as well as
retiree health benefits, overtime, and travel. A number of participants
suggested that small schools should be closed and the property sold.
Quite a few items showed up on both lists, with some people declaring
them untouchable while others were willing to give them up.

Text Box: The final question to which meeting participants responded
concerned raising revenue and the possibility of bringing another parcel
tax measure before the voters. Suggestions for enhancing revenue
included beginning a campaign to increase enrollment and improve
attendance, and initiating a political effort to influence the
legislature to raise taxes or fees specifically targeted to education.
Other suggestions included the closing and selling of school properties,
convincing the state to forgive the loans from the early 1990’s, and
pressing IBM to forgive the debt the purchase of computers in 1991. Many
participants supported a parcel tax, not just to renew the current one
that expires next year, but to add to that tax.

The Board and the Community Budget Advisory Committee held a workshop
late last month to review the feedback from the six community meetings
and provide direction around framing the reductions. What’s clear is
that there are no easy or painless solutions. We are already planning to
reduce $3.9 million from the 2008-09 budget to account for loss of
revenue from declining enrollment. The parcel tax, if not renewed by
2009, will take another $10 million from the budget that now pays for
all our counselors, library staff, the athletic program, class size
reduction and much more.

Text Box: On top of all this comes the Governor’s proposal which would
take another $14 million from our budget. That’s the equivalent of 183
teaching jobs – more than 10% of all our teachers. Another way to
understand just how large that impact would be is that we could
eliminate* all* of our administrative positions and still have to cut
another 40 teachers.

During the community meetings, participants raised a number of
questions. We’ve created a “Frequently Asked Questions” tab on the
district’s web site where we’re storing all this budget information.
There’s also a button to click to ask additional questions as well as
provide more feedback.

In the past, educators have been accused of “crying wolf”—exaggerating
the impact of the lack of funding. With the combination of declining
enrollment, triple-digit increases in health benefits costs, the loss of
the parcel tax, and the Governor’s budget proposal, it is impossible to
exaggerate the devastation and impact to our students. For those of us
who’ve spent our entire careers working within state budgets, we now
face the worst scenario that we’ve ever seen or imagined.

Early in April, after another round of public meetings on the
reductions, I’ll be recommending that the Board adopt a plan to
implement reductions for 2008-09 and 2009-10. In mid-May we’ll get an
update from the Governor that will aide us in putting together the final
budget for 2008-09. While the state may—and usually does—delay enacting
a budget, the district is required to do so by June 30. Without some
help from Sacramento in the form of increased revenues, we’ll have to
make the cuts that will have an immeasurably negative impact in what
we’re able to do for our children.

Bruce Harter <mailto:bharter@...>

Superintendent

* The district financial presentation is at:

http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Fiscal/budget/2007-
08/Community_Meeting_Feb_08_FINAL-Revised.pdf
<http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Fiscal/budget/2007-%2008/Community_Meeting_Feb_08_F\
INAL-Revised.pdf>

========================================

*Mensaje del Superintendente*

marzo 2008

*Escuchando a nuestra Comunidad*

Durante el mes de febrero el Comité Consejero Comunitario del
presupuesto realizó seis reuniones para escuchar opiniones sobre los
serios desafíos financieros que enfrenta el Distrito. Con los costos
siempre en aumento, en particular los beneficios de salud, la
disminución de matrículas, y el presupuesto propuesto por el Gobernador,
estamos enfrentando una reducción presupuestaria de $10.4 millones que
afectará los fondos para el año escolar 2008-09.

El Distrito enfrentó una situación similar en el año escolar 2003-04.
Ese año, el Distrito eliminó 22 posiciones y redujo los fondos en $1.3
durante la mitad del año. En el año escolar 2004-05 el Distrito redujo
106 posiciones adicionales, disminuyó otros $2 millones del presupuesto
para el año escolar 2005-06, y además recortó $2.6 millones adicionales
para el año escolar 2007-08. Hemos eliminado un total de 162 posiciones
durante estos años. Pero todo esto resulta insignificantes en
comparación a lo que enfrentaremos en el año escolar 2008-09. Los mismos
tres factores (aumento del costo de los beneficios de salud, la
disminución de las matrículas y la reducción del presupuesto estatal)
harán de esta primavera el período mas difícil que hemos enfrentado en
muchos años.

Más de 600 personas, entre padres, personal y miembros de la comunidad,
asistieron en febrero a las reuniones. Después de hacer una breve
presentación de los desafíos^(1) que enfrentamos, Sheri Gamba,
Superintendente Asociada, pidió a los asistentes que respondieran a tres
preguntas: (1) ¿Qué programas y servicios nunca deberían ser
recortados?, (2) ¿Qué programas y servicios, a pesar de que sean
importantes, podrían ser recortados o eliminados?, y (3) ¿Cómo podría el
Distrito aumentar sus ingresos?

Dentro de las áreas mas frecuentemente citadas para que nunca sean
afectadas por cortes se encontraban los programas académicos básicos de
lectura, matemáticas, escritura, ciencias, estudios sociales y
adquisición de un segundo idioma. También fue mencionado a menudo la
mantención del programa de reducción de la cantidad de alumnos en las
clases. Otros incluyeron el arte, programas deportivos, programa de
cursos avanzados, educación especial, programas después de la escuela, y
mantención de los establecimiento educacionales. Los maestros,
consejeros, bibliotecarios y directores encabezaron la lista del
personal que muchos sintieron que no debiera ser reducido. También se
mencionó con frecuencia la mantención del programa de seguridad, que
incluye recursos de oficiales escolares, supervisores del recinto
escolar y la no reducción de los beneficios de los empleados.

La lista fue más corta cuando se le preguntó a la audiencia qué
consideraba que se podría reducir. Las respuestas incluyeron sugerencias
para reducir los consultores externos, administradores de la oficina
principal, tamaño máximo de las clases, gastos de utilidades, limitar la
adopción de textos nuevos, beneficios de salud de los empleados, así
como también de jubilados, sobretiempo y viajes. Un número de
participantes sugirió que se cerraran las escuelas pequeñas y que las
propiedades fuesen vendidas. Pocos ejemplos aparecieron en ambas listas,
con algunos concurrentes declarándose como defensores absolutos de
estos, mientras que otros estaban dispuestos a eliminarlos.

La pregunta final a que los concurrentes respondieron tenía relación con
el aumento de ingresos para el Distrito y la posibilidad de proponer a
los votantes otra medida de impuestos a la propiedad. Las sugerencias
para mejorar los ingresos incluyeron el comienzo de una campaña para
aumentar la matrícula e iniciar un esfuerzo político para influenciar la
legislatura para que aumente los impuestos, o pagos que fuesen
utilizados específicamente para beneficiar la educación. Otras
sugerencias incluyeron el cierre de escuelas y venta de las propiedades,
convencer al Estado que condone los préstamos de principios de los 1990,
y presionar a IBM para que condone la deuda por la compra de
computadores en el año 1991. Muchos participantes apoyaron la idea de un
nuevo impuesto a la propiedad, no solo de renovar el vigente que expira
el próximo año, si no que también aumentar ese impuesto.^

El Comité Consejero Comunitario del Presupuesto realizó una sesión de
trabajo a finales del mes pasado para revisar las opiniones obtenidas en
las seis reuniones comunitarias y proveer guías para enmarcar las
reducciones. Es claro que no hay soluciones fáciles ni sencillas. Ya
estamos planeando reducir $3.9 millones del presupuesto del año escolar
2008-09 para poder cubrir la pérdida de ingreso como resultado de la
disminución de las matrículas. Si el impuesto a la propiedad no es
renovado para el año 2009 tendremos que reducir $10 millones del
prepuesto que ahora paga los salarios de los consejeros, personal de la
biblioteca, el programa deportivo, la reducción de alumnos en las
clases, y mucho más.

Además de todo esto, se encuentra la propuesta del Gobernador de reducir
nuestro presupuesto en $14 millones. Eso es el equivalente a 183
posiciones de maestros, es decir más del 10% de todos nuestros maestros.
A modo de comprender el gran impacto que esto produciría, esta
disminución del presupuesto sería equivalente a eliminar *todas
*nuestras posiciones administrativas, y aun así habría que eliminar las
posiciones de 40 maestros.

Los participantes hicieron un número de preguntas durante la reunión
comunitaria. Por esta razón, hemos creado una lista de “Preguntas Hechas
Frecuentemente” en la página de Internet del Distrito en donde se
encuentra toda la información de este presupuesto. También hay un botón
seleccionable para poder hacer preguntas adicionales, así como también
para proporcionar información.

En el pasado los educadores han sido acusados de quejarse, exagerando el
impacto de la falta de presupuesto. Pero la combinación de disminución
de las matrículas, el aumento del costo de los beneficios de salud, la
pérdida del impuesto a la propiedad y el presupuesto propuesto por el
Gobernador, hacen imposible exagerar el impacto devastador que esto
provocará en la educación de nuestros alumnos. Aquellos de nosotros que
hemos pasado nuestra carrera completa trabajando con los presupuestos
del estado nos vemos hoy enfrentando la peor situación que hayamos
visto, o imaginado.

A principios de abril, y después de una nueva ronda de reuniones
públicas en relación a las reducciones, recomendaré que la Mesa
Directiva adopte un plan de reducciones para el año escolar 2008-09 y
para el año escolar 2009-10. A mitad de mayo recibiremos información
actualización del Gobernador que nos ayudará a preparar el presupuesto
final para el año 2008-09. A pesar de que es posible, y ocurre con
frecuencia, que el estado retrase la aprobación de un presupuesto, se
requiere que el Distrito tenga su presupuesto listo para junio 30. Sin
no obtenemos ayuda proveniente de Sacramento, en la forma de mayores
fuentes de ingresos, tendremos que hacer cortes que tendrán un impacto
inmensamente negativo en la educación de nuestros niños.

Bruce Harter <mailto:bharter@...>

Superintendente^

^

(1) La presentación financiera del Distrito se encuentra en:
http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Fiscal/budget/2007-08/Community_Meeting_Feb_08_FINAL\
-Revised.pdf

-------- Original Message --------
Subject:  Apple Bite: District to hold community budget meetings March
11-13
Date:  Tue, 4 Mar 2008 10:00:28 -0800
From:  Ehara, Paul <PEhara@...>



This Apple Bite is also posted at
http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Communications/Apple_Bites/2007-08/13_March_communit\
y_meetings.pdf.

---------------------------------------


       * ^ *


   *News from the West Contra Costa Unified School District*

1108 Bissell Ave. * Richmond, CA 94801-3135 * (510) 231-1100

www.wccusd.net <http://www.wccusd.net/>

_
_For immediate release * March 4, 2008 or thereafter * No. 0708-13

Contact: Paul Ehara, director of communications: 510-231-1133

*District to hold second round of community budget meetings March 11-13*

In its continuing effort to keep the public informed about its financial
situation and to engage parents, staff and community members in the
budget planning process for 2008-09, the West Contra Costa Unified
School District will hold three additional community budget meetings on
March 11-13, 2008. The meetings will take place at the following locations:

*Meeting Location*



*Date*



*Time*

Crespi Junior High School cafeteria



Tuesday, March 11



6:30-8:00 p.m.

Helms Middle School cafeteria



Wednesday, March 12



6:30-8:00 p.m.

Kennedy High School cafeteria



Thursday, March 13



6:30-8:00 p.m.

In February the district held six community budget meetings at locations
throughout West County. At those meetings, district staff asked people
to give input on what items and programs should be protected and which
ones should be considered for next year’s reductions. Attendees also
gave input on how the district might lessen the impact of the state’s
budget reductions on local schools in West County and on the
desirability of extending the current parcel tax. More than 600 people
attended these meetings and participated in feedback discussions. A
summary of this input is posted at:

www.wccusd.net/Fiscal/budget/2007-08/Community_mtg_input__master-02_28_08.pdf
<http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Fiscal/budget/2007-08/Community_mtg_input__master-0\
2_28_08.pdf>.

The purpose of the upcoming March 11-13 meetings is to report back to
the community on the collected feedback, and to introduce and receive
input on a proposed list of budget reductions that incorporates the
February feedback.

The state’s current fiscal crisis is one of the forces driving the
budget challenges that the district faces next year. Other financial
challenges that the district must address include:

§ A budget reduction target of $10.4 million for 2008-09 based on the
Governor’s budget proposal.

§ A decline in enrollment of 4,282 students since 2002-03.

§ The imminent loss of the parcel tax after 2008-09. If not renewed by
voters, schools will lose an additional $9.8 million. The parcel tax
currently pays for high school sports, librarians, K-3 class size
reduction, counselors, school psychologists and other special education
services, and custodians.

# # #



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

I've been meaning to respond to this email thread for a while, but have been
busy of late.  Anyway, here is the history of the meeting with Karen Pfeifer.  I
had asked Karen after the Portola site decision was made whether the promise of
discussion of alternate grade configurations (K-8) was ever going to happen,
particularly since it was included in the site selection criteria but then
deferred at Karen's direction.

   She responded that it was being "publicly" discussed, which I now assume was
the Washington K-8 discussion at the Board (which took place a few days before
we met).  She also said that she wanted to discuss the merits of Portola with
other Kensington parents who want K-8.  This was the origin of the meeting.

   However, I responded that interest in K-8 was coming from more than just
Kensington families, including those unhappy about the closure of Castro
Elementary School and the seismic safety problems at Adams Middle School, who
see K-8 as a part of a good solution to these problems - close Portola,
distribute the Portola students to some newly created K-8s and the remaining
middle schools and use the Portola funds to seismically retrofit Adams.

   Thus, I asked people that were concerned about these issues and are supportive
of this solution to attend the meeting (Feb 10).  Karen invited Cathy Travlos
separately.  Yes, it was held at Karen's house.

   At the meeting, Karen noted that Adams was being discussed in closed session
as a real estate issue.  She also intimated that this was being done because it
was under consideration for closure - though I can't recall her exact wording. 
I did respond that this approach seemed to be a poor choice, since it was
choosing site with a smaller capacity (Castro site capacity of 600 vs. Adams
site capacity of about 1000+) and with less public support (neighbors around
Adams seem to be accepting of it vs. Castro site opposition).

   It does seem to me that the apparent discussion of Adams in terms of real
estate transactions in closed session indicates that there is a plan to close
it.   Othrwise, there is no apparent reason to include Adams in any real estate
discussions.

   I hope this clarifies things.

   Mark Woo

Charley Cowens <charley.cowens@...> wrote:
   Was this meeting really arranged by Mark Woo to be held at Karen's
house and presided over by Karen? Why wouldn't he have it at his own
house or neutral territory? I've seen Mark Woo post on this list
before, I think. Perhaps he could report to this list on what happened
at this meeting from his own perspective.

Also, Cathy, you suggest that the passage of a parcel tax would
eliminate the need for closing schools. This was not the analysis
presented by the staff at the study sessions. Their contention was
that school closures would be required even before you get to the
issue of the parcel tax.

Charley Cowens

On Wed, Feb 20, 2008 at 10:20 PM, Cathy Travlos wrote:
> I was at this "invitation only" meeting at Karen Pfeifer's house last
> weekend. This meeting was arranged by Mark Woo, ostensibly to discuss K8
> with Karen. She invited me (and I'm the only one invited by Karen) and
> asked me to listen to the K8 discussion with an open mind since the
> subject would probably be coming up before the Academic Subcommittee. I
> was prepared to do that, except the people invited by Mark were there to
> discuss Castro. I don't recall the remark about Adams, but I missed the
> very end of the meeting because of a prior commitment.
>
> I would expect that the board would be discussing Adams during closed
> session since the closed session agendas all have property discussion
> relating to Portola, Fairmont, and Castro. I would hope that they're
> exploring all options for the students and that they're discussing
> seismic safety – and any discussion of that should certainly include
> Adams. Are they discussing closing Adams or any other school? I have no
> idea but if the subject comes up during a discussion of seismic safety
> then I hope they fully discuss all options.
>
> And I was also at the board meeting where they had the discussion about
> school closure. It was Audrey Miles who spoke the most passionately
> about waiting until after the election to discuss school closures. Her
> hope was that the parcel tax would pass and the need to close schools
> would no longer be there.
>
> I hope that we call can quit looking for conspiracies where none exist
> and can instead use our energy to try to save our district from the
> perfect storm of financial crises we're facing.
>
> Cathy
>
>
> combatlit@... wrote:
> >
> > After the Sunday night February 10, 2008, invitation only meeting at
> > Karen Pfeifer's house, Gregory Chang sent an email to mark Woo
> > summarizing his impressions of the meeting. Mr. Chang's email confirms
> > my point that school closures are being discussed by the Board in
> > closed session in violation of the law.
> >
> > In his February 11, 2008 email, Mr. Chang unequivocally states:
> >
> > "It sounds like Adams is going to be closed and the land will be sold
> > -- she [Karen Pfeifer] said we will hear the details within 6 months."
> >
> > Mr. Chang's report about school closure is also confirmed by the notes
> > of the other attendees.
> >
> > So I stand by my previous post. It is corrupt for Karen Pfeifer to
> > tell staff to keep school closure off the public meeting agenda and at
> > the same time violate the law and discuss school closure in closed
> > session.
> >
> > Robert W. Brower
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>



Yahoo! Groups Links






[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Thank you to Charley and other concerned citizens for the research into
restructuring the Board through ward elections.  Has anyone considered
the possibility of implementing ward elections for the proposed five
areas AND having an additional two at-large positions on the school
board?  In addition to having representation from all five geographic
areas, the additional two at-large positions would allow for two
candidates who have support throughout the district.  Even if three
board members were to come from the same geographic area, they would
represent a minority on a seven person board (3 vs. the other 4).  In
addition, a school board with 7 members (instead of the current 5)
would benefit the school district as there would be more members to
serve on the various board subcommittees.

I also like the idea of 5 Trustee Area (ward) and 2 at-large school
board members. I don't think the 5 trustee areas is mutually
exclusive. So, it would be possible to do this in 2 steps, first to go
for getting the Trustee Areas passed in the November Election and then
try to add 2 at-large in the March 2009 election.

I would like to know more research about Districts that are set up
this way. If it is working well, (or better then what we have)  I will
gladly volunteer for this campaign.

The idea of 5 or 7 school board members was discussed last year and
some thought that 7 did not work well in other districts.

I personally feel that having "Trustee Areas" (Ward) is a positive
step and a big change in this district. This will give representation
to all areas of the district. I think it is very possible that more
community members could feel more connected to the district and
encouraged to be more involved.

My understanding is that " Citizens for Positive Education Change" is
working for election reform. So, this will be ongoing.

This is going to be a year of change.

In love & light,
Linda

FYI: For more information on Trustee Elections visit:
http://DistrictGuide.org



--- In wccusdtalk@yahoogroups.com, "Catherine Mercurio"
<catherine@...> wrote:
>
> Thank you to Charley and other concerned citizens for the research into
> restructuring the Board through ward elections.  Has anyone considered
> the possibility of implementing ward elections for the proposed five
> areas AND having an additional two at-large positions on the school
> board?  In addition to having representation from all five geographic
> areas, the additional two at-large positions would allow for two
> candidates who have support throughout the district.  Even if three
> board members were to come from the same geographic area, they would
> represent a minority on a seven person board (3 vs. the other 4).  In
> addition, a school board with 7 members (instead of the current 5)
> would benefit the school district as there would be more members to
> serve on the various board subcommittees.
>

-------- Original Message --------
Subject:  March 7 e-Weekly
Date:  Fri, 7 Mar 2008 19:54:22 -0800
From:  Ehara, Paul <PEhara@...>



The complete version of the March 7 e-Weekly (with photos) is posted at
http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Communications/e-Weekly/2008/03_07.pdf.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------\
------------------------------


   **


   * *


   *March 7, 2008 *

www.wccusd.net <http://www.wccusd.net/> · e-Weekly archives:
www.wccusd.net/Communications/e-Weekly/index.shtml
<http://www.wccusd.net/Communications/e-Weekly/index.shtml>

* *

* *

*Pinole** Valley**’s “Grease” slides onto stage tonight*

* *

/[Photo] Hours away from their opening performance, actors in the
musical Grease pause on the school stage (left to right): Brenda Ruano,
Dana Henrikson, Jihan Sabir, Christina Rathavongsa, and Joesph Silo./

*The curtain rises* on the first of four performances of the musical
Grease at 8:00 p.m. tonight at the Pinole Valley High School cafeteria.
Other performances will take place on March 8, 14, and 15. A cast and
crew of 70 students put their heart and soul into the production, which
is directed by theater teacher Kim Knoll. Nita Jason is the musical
director.

* *

* *

*Richmond** student wins state environmental advocacy award *

* *

*Marvin Salazar, a senior* at Richmond High School and a student in the
school’s Multimedia Academy, has recently been named a California
Climate Champion. Marvin will represent the United States during
all-expenses-paid trips to London, United Kingdom on March 24 -30, 2008
and Kobe, Japan on May 18-25, 2008.

Marvin entered the contest—sponsored by the California Environmental
Protection Agency Air Resources Board—with his fellow colleagues, senior
Jaimee Dickerson of Richmond High School and junior Rayshana Brown and
senior Esther Taufa of Kennedy High School. They produced a public
service announcement (PSA) video concerning what the community can do to
prevent global warming.

On March 19, Richmond High School will hold an assembly to recognize the
Richmond-Kennedy student team of Marvin, Jaimee, Rayashana, and Esther,
who produced their winning PSA in association with the Richmond Youth
Media Project, a non-profit group whose mission is to teach Richmond
youth how to create television programs about issues that they care about.

As a California Climate Champion, Marvin is one of three students who
will represent the United States during the global tour to London and
Kobe. He will join a statewide network of communicators who will
participate in many activities and events that involve climate change
work. He’ll be given the opportunity to present the climate change
message to his community, state, and country. Marvin will also be giving
media interviews and help to develop an online community to engage others.

/ /

/—Jennielyn Dino Rossi, placement director, West Contra Costa Career
Academies/

* *

*Community honors Congressman Miller for his support of homeless children*

*On February 29* at the Nevin Community Center the West Contra Costa
community presented Congressman George Miller with an award from the
National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth
(NAEHCY) for his vital role in supporting initiatives and legislation
that support education for homeless children and youth. The award was
presented by Cheryl Maier of Opportunity West, and district staff Toni
Oklan-Arko and Jeri Cohen.

/[Photo] Jeri Cohen of the district’s Families in Transition Office
presents Congressman George Miller with a plaque in appreciation of his
support and advocacy for the education of homeless children and youth./

NAEHCY is a national grassroots membership association which serves as
the voice and the social conscience for the education of children and
youth in homeless situations. Established in 1989, NAEHCY’s mission is
to ensure that children and youth residing in temporary living
situations receive equitable and excellent services through the public
schools across the country. The Association also encourages the
development and dissemination of strategies for effective instruction,
pupil services and research.

*Upcoming student art shows*

*Portola** Middle School’s* third annual art show opens today at the
M.C. Gallery, 10344 San Pablo Avenue in El Cerrito and continues through
March 15. The exhibit kicks off with a reception today, March 7, from
6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The show will feature papier-mache masks by 6th, 7th
and 8th grade students in Ms. Wehrle’s art classes. The gallery is open
Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 5:00 p.m.

And remember, the 43rd Annual District Art Show will be held from April
4-25 at the Richmond Art Center (RAC). The show’s reception takes place
on Friday, April 18 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the RAC.

*Bio-Rad science scholarship program applications sought*

* *

*The Bio-Rad Laboratories Scholarships* Program 2008 awards scholarships
in the amount of $1,000 to students with a passion for and career
interest in science. The purpose of the program is to provide financial
assistance to deserving students who have applied themselves in school
and have decided to seek higher education to pursue their science career
goals.

The deadline for applications is March 14, 2008. Applications may be
downloaded by going to www.bio-rad.com <http://www.bio-rad.com/>, then
clicking “Career Center,” and then clicking “Bio-Rad Community
Outreach.” Submit the application form, a transcript, two letters of
recommendation, and a 400-word essay. The essay question: “What can be
done to encourage interest and participation in science.” Finally,
applicants must attend high schools within a 50-mile radius of the
Bio-Rad Laboratories campus in Hercules, Calif.

* *

* *

*School construction update*

* *

*De Anza High School*

/[Photo] Prepped for the installation of the all-weather track, the new
athletic field at De Anza High School nears completion. /

* *

* *

*Hercules Middle/High School*

/[Photos] Left: Hercules High School’s recently completed new athletic
field with all-weather track installed. Right: Softball field under
construction./

* *

* *

*Community budget meetings March 11-13*

* *

*In its continuing effort* to keep the public informed about its
financial situation and to engage parents, staff and community members
in the budget planning process for 2008-09, the West Contra Costa
Unified School District will hold three additional community budget
meetings on March 11-13, 2008. The meetings will take place at the
following locations:

*Meeting Location*



*Date*



*Time*

Crespi Junior High School cafeteria



Tuesday, March 11



6:30-8:00 p.m.

Helms Middle School cafeteria



Wednesday, March 12



6:30-8:00 p.m.

Kennedy High School cafeteria



Thursday, March 13



6:30-8:00 p.m.

In February the district held six community budget meetings at locations
throughout West County. At those meetings, district staff asked people
to give input on what items and programs should be protected and which
ones should be considered for next year’s reductions.

Attendees also gave input on how the district might lessen the impact of
the state’s budget reductions on local schools in West County and on the
desirability of extending the current parcel tax. More than 600 people
attended these meetings and participated in feedback discussions. A
summary of this input is posted at:

http://www.wccusd.net/Fiscal/budget/2007-08/Community_mtg_input__master-02_28_08\
.pdf.

The purpose of the upcoming March 11-13 meetings is to report back to
the community on the collected feedback, and to introduce and receive
input on a proposed list of budget reductions that incorporates the
February feedback. The state’s current fiscal crisis is a major force
that drives the district’s budget challenges for next year. Other
financial challenges that the district must address include:

§ *A budget reduction target* of $10.4 million for 2008-09 based on the
Governor’s budget proposal.

§ *A decline in enrollment *of 4,282 students since 2002-03.

§ *The imminent loss of the parcel tax* after 2008-09. If not renewed by
voters, schools will lose an additional $9.8 million. The parcel tax
currently pays for high school sports, librarians, K-3 class size
reduction, counselors, school psychologists and other special education
services, and custodians.

§ *Increasing benefits costs:* The district’s costs for employee and
retiree benefits have increased from $25 million in 2002-03 to $46
million today.

§ *From surplus to deficit:* Without massive spending reductions and a
parcel tax renewal by voters, the district will face a $31 million
deficit by the end of 2009-10.

*Board of Education meeting: March 19*

* *

The Board of Education will hold its regular meeting on March 19 at
Lovonya DeJean Middle School. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m.

* *

*Upcoming committee meetings*

* *

§ Facilities Board Subcommittee: March 12

§ Multilingual District Advisory Committee: March 13-14

§ Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee: March 26

§ Community Budget Advisory Committee: March 27

§ GATE District Advisory Committee: March 31

* *

*New/updated on the district website*

The following information is now available on the district website,
http://www.wccusd.net <http://www.wccusd.net/>:

§ *What You’ve Told Us: Summary of input from the February community
budget meetings—*

http://www.wccusd.net/Fiscal/budget/2007-08/Community_mtg_input__master-02_28_08\
.pdf**

§ *High school scholarship information as of March
5—*http://www.wccusd.net/scholarship_info/index.shtml

§ *2008-09 Academic Calendar — *

http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/calendar/0809_calendar_English.pdf (English)

http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/calendar/0809_calendar_Spanish.pdf (Spanish)

§ *Second Interim Budget (SIB) Executive Summary— *

http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Fiscal/budget/2007-08/Executive_Summary_2nd_interim_\
0708.pdf

§ *SIB Summary by Fund—*

http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Fiscal/budget/2007-08/Fund_summary_07-08_2nd_Interim\
.pdf

§ *March 5 SIB Board presentation—*

http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Fiscal/budget/2007-08/2nd_Interim_ending_013108.pdf

§ *Notice of Preparation of an Environment Impact Report and Notice of
Scoping Meeting
<http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/construction/Facilities/Portola/NOP_WCCUSD_Castro_0\
22208signedcomplete.pdf>—*http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/construction/Facilities/Po\
rtola/index.shtml

§ *Initial Study-Construction and Renovation of the Castro Elementary
School to Replace Portola Middle School Project
<http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/construction/Facilities/Portola/Initial_Study_WCCUS\
D_Castro_022208signedcomplete.pdf>—*

http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/construction/Facilities/Portola/index.shtml

§ *Board Facilities Subcommittee March 12 meeting agenda—*

http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/committees/facilities/index.shtml

_______*_______________________________________________*

* *

*ABOUT THE e-WEEKLY*

The WCCUSD e-Weekly is produced by the West Contra Costa Unified
District Communications Office, (510) 231-1132. To subscribe or
unsubscribe, e-mail _pehara@..._. Pass on this invitation to join
our mailing list to other employees, students, family members and
community members. You are welcome to share information from this
publication and the district website (_http://www.wccusd.net)_ through
electronic communication and print publications.


   * *

San Leandro's school district is a local example of the hybrid system:
6 by trustee area / 1 at-large.

Charley Cowens

On Fri, Mar 7, 2008 at 11:41 PM, Linda <lozito@...> wrote:
> I also like the idea of 5 Trustee Area (ward) and 2 at-large school
>  board members. I don't think the 5 trustee areas is mutually
>  exclusive. So, it would be possible to do this in 2 steps, first to go
>  for getting the Trustee Areas passed in the November Election and then
>  try to add 2 at-large in the March 2009 election.
>
>  I would like to know more research about Districts that are set up
>  this way. If it is working well, (or better then what we have)  I will
>  gladly volunteer for this campaign.
>
>  The idea of 5 or 7 school board members was discussed last year and
>  some thought that 7 did not work well in other districts.
>
>  I personally feel that having "Trustee Areas" (Ward) is a positive
>  step and a big change in this district. This will give representation
>  to all areas of the district. I think it is very possible that more
>  community members could feel more connected to the district and
>  encouraged to be more involved.
>
>  My understanding is that " Citizens for Positive Education Change" is
>  working for election reform. So, this will be ongoing.
>
>  This is going to be a year of change.
>
>  In love & light,
>  Linda
>
>  FYI: For more information on Trustee Elections visit:
>  http://DistrictGuide.org
>
>
>
>  --- In wccusdtalk@yahoogroups.com, "Catherine Mercurio"
>
>
> <catherine@...> wrote:
>  >
>  > Thank you to Charley and other concerned citizens for the research into
>  > restructuring the Board through ward elections.  Has anyone considered
>  > the possibility of implementing ward elections for the proposed five
>  > areas AND having an additional two at-large positions on the school
>  > board?  In addition to having representation from all five geographic
>  > areas, the additional two at-large positions would allow for two
>  > candidates who have support throughout the district.  Even if three
>  > board members were to come from the same geographic area, they would
>  > represent a minority on a seven person board (3 vs. the other 4).  In
>  > addition, a school board with 7 members (instead of the current 5)
>  > would benefit the school district as there would be more members to
>  > serve on the various board subcommittees.
>  >
>
>
>
>
>
>  Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>

Subcommittee Board Members:
Charles Ramsey & Madeline Kronenberg

Location of the Facility Subcommittee Meetings:
Facilities Operation Center, 1300 Potrero Ave., Richmond, CA 94804

http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/committees/facilities/agendas/2008/03_12.pdf

A. OPENING PROCEDURES

B. PUBLIC COMMENT

C. ACTION ITEMS
C.1 Bond Allocation Plan
Review and recommend final modifications to the Bond Allocation Plan.
Presenter:
for Operations, Jeff Edmison and District Engineering Officer, Bill
Savidge

D. DISCUSSION ITEMS
D.1 Measure J Bond Sale
Discuss the anticipated bond program cash flow and upcoming bond sale.
Presenter: Associate Superintendent for Operations, Jeff Edmison and
District Engineering Officer, Bill Savidge

D.2 Local Capacity Building Program
Discuss the current status of the Local Capacity Building Program and
future plans, including the work at Helms.  Presenter: Lance Jackson,
Bond Program Manager

D.3 Leadership Public Schools (LPS) Facility Housing Plan
Discuss the short and long term housing plan for LPS Charter School.
Presenter: Associate Superintendent for Operations, Jeff Edmison and
District Engineering Officer, Bill Savidge

D.4 Reassignment Plan for Castro Elementary Students
Discuss the student reassignment plan for the Castro Elementary School
students. Presenter: Associate Superintendent for Operations, Jeff Edmison

D.5 Restroom Wall Surface Finishes
Discuss the plan to address restroom wall surfaces where the finishes
are demonstrating stress cracks or bubbling and establish new
standard. Presenter: Kevin Macquarrie, WLC Architects and District
Engineering Officer, Bill  Savidge

Sheri Gamba's presentation from this week's budget meetings is posted
on the district web page:
http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Fiscal/budget/2007-08/CommunityMarch11-12-13.pdf

- Cathy

I only had a few minutes to look at the PDF and see WCCUSD continues
to Lie to us and themselves,  It says:

"Results of Group Discussion III
�� Community largely supportive of parcel tax
�� Suggestions for improving revenue
included…
��Parent Fundraising
��Private Donations
��Business Partnerships"

So if the community largely supports this parcel tax why did the
voters say NO only 7 months ago?  What has changed?  If you think
that the governor ripping off our children will change my mind, you
have more convincing to do.  Why is Bruce Harter having an
invitation only meetings and consultants being hired to pass another
Parcel Tax?  WCCUSD has to do better and show they care about ALL
the STUDENTS!
The following is an excerpt from Contra Costa Times:
Voters on Aug. 28 defeated Measure G, which would have raised $14
million annually beginning in 2009 to pay for athletics, safety,
class-size reductions and more. The current parcel tax expires in
June 2009 and provides the district with an extra $10 million for
such programs annually.

The parcel tax needed two-thirds approval to pass but received just
54 percent support. City-by-city breakdowns of how the approximately
27,000 West County voters cast their mail-in ballots show that 62
percent of El Cerrito residents and 73 percent of Kensington
residents voted yes while voters in Hercules and Pinole
overwhelmingly rejected it. Only 37 percent of Hercules voters and
42 percent of Pinole residents said yes to Measure G.

In Richmond, 56 percent of voters said yes.





--- In wccusdtalk@yahoogroups.com, "c_travlos" <cbt@...> wrote:
>
> Sheri Gamba's presentation from this week's budget meetings is
posted
> on the district web page:
> http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Fiscal/budget/2007-08/CommunityMarch11-
12-13.pdf
>
> - Cathy
>

Jill -
The community meetings that have been held by the district are public
meetings that have been advertised in the newspaper, on the district
website and in the local schools. Also, UTR has been making phone
calls, urging teachers to attend and to invite their neighbors. I
attended the meeting at DeJean and there was a sizeable crowd.

Charley, Tammy and members of the Community Budget Advisory Committee
have been attending these meetings to help facilitate discussion.
Sheri Gamba, our Associate Spt for Business Services, has been
running the meetings. They are asking the community what services,
personnel and programs should never be cut, what should be considered
for cuts and what we as a community could do to mitigate future state
cuts. Support for a future parcel tax was the final question. Of
course, the majority of people in the room would be in favor of a
parcel tax. The bigger question is would community members who have
no ties to local schools be in favor of another parcel tax.

As I'm sure you know from working in the Orinda schools, there are no
districts in this state that are immune from the state's budget
troubles. All districts in the Bay Area are now having problems with
declining enrollment due to the lower birth rates and the high cost
of housing. Even Lafayette, which hasn't cut teachers in decades, is
making cuts. We need to work together to change the way we finance
our schools so that California students receive the same quality of
education as students in the rest of the states, which spend more on
education.

Francie

-------- Original Message --------
Subject:  March 14 e-Weekly
Date:  Fri, 14 Mar 2008 18:20:33 -0700
From:  Ehara, Paul <PEhara@...>



The complete version of the March 14 e-Weekly, including photographs, is
posted at http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Communications/e-Weekly/2008/03_14.pdf

---------------------------------


   **


   *March 14, 2008 *

www.wccusd.net <http://www.wccusd.net/> · e-Weekly archives:
www.wccusd.net/Communications/e-Weekly/index.shtml
<http://www.wccusd.net/Communications/e-Weekly/index.shtml>

* *

* *

*And where are you from?*

* *

/[Photo] Representing four generations, Ruby Houstin Fox (left) with
great-granddaughter Bianca Charles (center) and members of their
extended family at the Where I’m From exhibit on display at the Richmond
Museum of History through May 4./

*On March 2 students,* families, educators, and community members
gathered at the Richmond Museum of History to kick off the “Where I’m
From” project, an exhibit of writings by students from teacher Byrne
Sherwood’s ninth-grade spring 2007 cultural geography class. The exhibit
pairs the students’ text with photos by Ruth Morgan of Community Works.
Eleven students interviewed members of their own families or community
members with whom they were paired. The exhibit features student poems
and writings that were inspired by the interviews.

Bianca Charles, a Where I’m From participant, interviewed her great
grandmother, Ruby Houstin Fox. “It was very fun,” Bianca said. “I never
knew I could learn so much from an elderly person. If you just sit down
and talk you can learn a lot about your heritage and where you came
from,” Bianca marveled.

“She told me she came from Texas, and traveled to California. My great,
great grandfather built a house in North Richmond, which still stands!
This whole project was interesting. We got to interview a lot of
cultures, and saw how each one was developed. We shared with each other
our stories,” Bianca said. “I want to do this again.”

[Photo] /Jessica Moreida (left) with her family at the Richmond Museum
of History’s kickoff for the Where I’m From exhibit./

Jessica Moreida interviewed Adana Elisa Browning, one of her teachers at
Richmond High school during her freshman year. Jessica said she liked
having the time to work with other students, and to work with and learn
about other cultures. She discovered that she had connections to her
interviewee. “I had an interesting feeling about [Ms. Browning],”
Jessica said. They both liked horses, for one. “And other kids picked on
both of them as young children “because we were different from other
students.”

“It’s been fun,” added Jessica. “It’s made me think of other people and
where they came from. It’s like being there in their place.”

[Photo] /Jorge Argueta (second from right) with his family. In the
background is his piece featuring writing on Betty Reid Soskin./

Jorge Argueta interviewed longtime community activist Betty Reid Soskin.
After interviewing Ms. Reid Soskin, Jorge concluded: “She did a lot of
stuff.”

“It’s interesting because she’s still working,” he said in wonder.
“She’s from back in the day. Her grandparents were slaves,” he said.
“Her great grandmother married a white man, while there was still
slavery,” said Jorge, who was impressed by the courage of that act.

“This project is about personal, social political history through
first-hand accounts,” said photographer Ruth Morgan. “The idea is to
engage people with their community, to see what the path of their own
families are. It was an amazing experience for everyone involved.

“An event like this won’t be forgotten—and they won’t forget the people
they’ve interviewed. This is a moment to celebrate these kids who are
often not celebrated,” Ms. Morgan said. “It was a labor of love.”

*In our schools*

* *

§ Saturday, March 15^th: Fifth Annual Titan’s Silent Treasures Auction,
7 p.m. to 11 p.m at the Hercules Swim Center. Tickets are $20 per person
and will be available at the door; no one under 18 years old will be
admitted. Catering by Fior D’Italia. This is a fundraiser for the
Hercules Middle High School athletics program.

§ Thursday, March 20: Middle School Spelling Bee at Crespi Middle
School, 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

§ WCCRE Scholarship Fundraiser, April 3 Drawing. Raffle tickets may be
purchased from Rosemary Blaylock at 510-526-7054 at 526-7054. Donate $5,
$10, $25 or any amount of your choice. Suggested donation is $5 for five
tickets. For tickets, contact Rosemary Blaylock, 526-7054,
blaylock@... <mailto:blaylock@...>. Let her know how many raffle
tickets you wish to buy. Donations are tax deductible. Send donations to:

ATTN: Scholarship Chairperson, WCCRE Scholarship

WCCUSD

1108 Bissell Avenue

Richmond, CA 94801

* *

* *

*School construction update*

* *

*Pinole** Middle School***

/[Photos] (Left) Gymnasium with exterior panels. (Right) Classroom
buildings with stucco coat./

* *

*Helms** Middle School***

/[Photos] Left: View of classroom buildings, looking west. Right:Close
view of buildings, south side of campus./

/ /

*El Cerrito** High School*//

/[Photos] Left: Building A, view from theater stage. Right: Building B,
bridges being sheathed. //Photos: Lewis Brower, SGI /

* *

*Board of Education meeting: March 19*

* *

The Board of Education will hold its regular meeting on March 19 at
Lovonya DeJean Middle School. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m.

* *

* *

*Upcoming committee meetings*

* *

§ Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee: March 26

§ Community Budget Advisory Committee: March 27

§ GATE District Advisory Committee: March 31

* *

* *

*New/updated on the district website*

The following information is now available on the district website,
http://www.wccusd.net <http://www.wccusd.net/>:

§ *High school scholarship information as of March
12—*http://www.wccusd.net/scholarship_info/index.shtml

§ *March 19 Board of Education meeting agenda and packet*

http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/board/calendar.shtml

In case your school didn't forward this, or if they don't have an etree,
here's an important announcement from Senator Tom Torlakson about an
education press conference. It's clear that we need to start making our
voices heard way beyond the boundaries of WCCUSD. - Cathy

Dear Friend:

On Monday, March 17, at 9:30 a.m., I will host Senate President pro
Tem Don Perata and several other members of the Senate Democratic
Caucus in my district for a press conference at Concord's Glenbrook
Middle School. The press conference will focus on the devastating
impacts of Governor Arnold Schwarzeneggerâ??s budget cuts on schools,
and will also feature local teachers, school employees, and education
officials.
I encourage you to join us for this press conference. Please consider
bringing a sign describing why these education funding cuts are
unacceptable. You may also bring your children if they happen to be on
spring break. (Please do not remove your children from school for this
press conference, we do not want our schools to lose any additional
funding!)

Last week, pink slips went out to an estimated 14,000 teachers
statewide, as school districts responded to the $4.8 billion in
education cuts proposed by Governor Schwarzenegger in his January
budget.

As I have argued since the Governor released that harmful budget
plan,
<http://dist07.casen.govoffice.com/index.asp?Type=B_PR&SEC=%7B7953D325-7F0B-4292\
-A870-95F54618D952%7D&DE=%7B5D96F230-7714-4589-8E90-AF775A115ED0%7D>
  these proposed cuts to educationâ??if enactedâ??would have a
disastrous impact on our schools and our children.

Let's be clear. Their impact would not last just a year or two. They
will impact our children for a lifetime. These cuts will not heal!

Education must be a top priority for our state. We must link arms
together to fight back against these destructive funding cut proposals
for our schools. We should be investing more money in our schools, not
less. Who among us believes our schools have enough funding?

These destructive cuts are a threat to our economy, our democracy,
and to the dreams and aspirations of our children.

We must not tolerate them.

WHAT:

Press Conference as Senate Democrats join local school employees who
have received layoff notices to discuss school funding and the state
budget

WHO:

Senate President pro Tem Don Perata (D-Oakland)

Senator Ellen Corbett (D-San Leandro)

Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto)

Senator Tom Torlakson (D-Antioch)

Local school employees who have received pink slips

WHERE:

Glenbrook Middle School

2351 Olivera Road

Concord, CA 94520

WHEN:

Monday, March 17, 9:30 a.m.

Sincerely,

Tom Torlakson



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We've been sending this out on all the school etrees but I'm not sure if
any of us posted it here.
- Cathy

This is a call to action for next week from the State PTA. Please read


and act.

--

Charles Cowens

VP, Communications / Bayside Council of PTAs

------------------------------------------------------------------------


  From: CaliforniaStatePTA@...
<mailto:CaliforniaStatePTA@...>

  To: info@... <mailto:info@...>

  Sent: 2/29/2008 10:24:32 A.M. Pacific Standard Time

  Subj: Legislative Alert: Flunk the Budget!

  *California State PTA Board of Managers: *

  **

  *The California State PTA is proactively fighting the proposed

  budget cuts. These cuts directly effect children at school and also

  hurt many children's way of life, including cuts to health care,

  foster care and after-school programs. In this email you will find

  all the tools to mobilize each member of the PTA. We've attached the


  /Flunk the Budget! Samples/, which includes sample letters and phone


  script to contact media and legislators directly. The /Flunk the

  budget! Fact Sheet/, is also provided to highlight the impact these

  cuts have on all children, as well as give each member background

  information on exactly why these cuts are harmful. We are working to


  develop a statewide mobilizing plan to be discussed at the Board of

  Mangers meeting, which will include several activities to help get

  all of our members engaged in this campaign. We are also working

  closely with the Education Coalition.*

  **

  *Please, distribute this information to as many members as possible.


  For more information on our /Flunk the Budget!/ campaign please

  visit www.capta.org <http://www.capta.org/>
  <http://www.capta.org/> <http://www.capta.org/>
. *

  **

  * *

  * *

  * *

  *FLUNK THE BUDGET!*

  *Sample Letters and Phone Script *

  *(Please email this to your ALL your PTA unit, council and district

  members.)*

  * *

  *Dear PTA members:*

  * *

  *The need for PTA has never been greater. **The Governorâ??s
proposed

  2008-2009 budget contains disastrous cuts to education and

  childrenâ??s program. For the next several months (or however long
it

  takes), we will be pursuing a statewide effort to make sure every

  legislator and the Governor hear PTA's message loudly, clearly and

  often:*

  * *

  *FLUNK THE BUDGET!*

  * *

  * *

  · *The proposed budget would make across-the-board cuts to

  education, health care and other programs that have a direct impact

  on the safety and well being of Californiaâ??s children. /(Please
see

  the attached fact sheet for details.)/*

  * *

  · *The Governor has recommended a $4.8 billion cut for K-14

  education, on top of a $400-plus million reduction for education in

  the current year. *

  * *

  *During the next week, we are asking all PTA members to do TWO

  things to /Flunk the Budget: /*

  * *

  *1. **Call your legislator*

  *2. **Write your legislator*

  * *

  *Hint: Do both*

  * *

  *You can do this at home or as an activity at your PTA Meeting***

  * *

  * *

  *Suggested PTA Activity:*

  * *

  * *

  *Bring the information below to your PTA meeting and have all your

  members make phone calls to their elected officials at the meeting.
*

  * *

  *Then ask them to follow-up by going home and sending an email. *

  * *

  *Make sure you provide your members with the telephone numbers*

  * of their elected officials at the meeting.*

  * *

  *Find Your Legislator:*

  *http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/yourleg.html*

  *SAMPLE TELEPHONE SCRIPT*

  My name is ___________ and I reside in ______________. As a

  volunteer member of the California State PTA I ask that ___(Your

  elected official)___

  strongly OPPOSE Governorâ??s proposed budget.

  â?¢ The California State PTA opposes any cuts to education and

  childrenâ??s programs in the state budget.

  â?¢ This budget flunks the basic test of good government: It hurts
our

  children.

  â?¢ Our children did not create this financial crisis and they
should

  not have to pay for it.

  Please do the right thing for California's children. OPPOSE the any

  cuts education and childrenâ??s programs in the budget.

  *SAMPLE EMAIL OR FAX OR LETTER*

  *(You can find your elected officialâ??s email address by clicking
on

  to their home page from the search page **Find Your Legislator**

  above.)*

  Date

  Your Address

  My Legislator

  State Capital

  Sacramento, CA

  Dear Senator or Assembly member _________:

  As one of the nearly one million volunteer members of the California


  State PTA,

  I ask that you strongly OPPOSE Governorâ??s proposed budget.

  â?¢ The California State PTA opposes any cuts to education and

  childrenâ??s programs in the state budget.

  â?¢ This budget flunks the basic test of good government: It hurts
our

  children.

  â?¢ Our children did not create this financial crisis and they
should

  not have to pay for it.

  Please do the right thing for California's children. OPPOSE the any

  cuts education and childrenâ??s programs in the budget.

  Thank you.

  Sincerely,

  Your Name

  Your Phone number

  *Find Out More About the California State PTA Campaign *

  *to Flunk the Budget*

  *www.capta.org*


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-------- Original Message --------
Subject:  [Bayside PTA] Action Alert - Governor's Press Conference -
March 19 (Yes, 12 Hours from the Sending of This to You)
Date:  Tue, 18 Mar 2008 22:19:54 -0700
From:  Charles Cowens <charley@...>
To:  wccusdlist@..., jsusdlist@...



Hi All,

I just received an announcement that the Governor will hold a press
conference tomorrow morning (Wednesday, March 19) at 10:40 AM at the
Pleasant Hill Community Room at 100 Gregory Lane in Pleasant Hill CA
9523.  Please joint the rally to show the governor and others that the
State Budget Flunks the Test.  Bring your sign.  Bring your friends.

Students are welcome to join us if they are not in school.  Do not take
students out of school to attend.  We don't want the schools to lose
attendance funds.

To learn how the state budget flunks the test, go to www.capta.org
<http://www.capta.org>.

For more information, contact Janet Abelson at abeljanet@...
<mailto:abeljanet@...> or 510-693-8115.

Let's show the Governor we care about kids.

Janet Abelson
Legislative Director
32nd District PTA



_______________________________________________
Bayside Council of PTAs
Richmond, CA and environs

TO GO TO OUR WEB SITE:
http://www.baysidepta.org

TO LOOK AT OLD EMAILS SENT OUT PREVIOUSLY:
http://baysidepta.org/pipermail/wccusdlist_baysidepta.org/

-------- Original Message --------
Subject:  March 21 e-Weekly
Date:  Fri, 21 Mar 2008 18:36:01 -0700
From:  Ehara, Paul <PEhara@...>



The complete version of the March 21 e-Weekly, including photographs, is
posted at
http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Communications/e-Weekly/2008/03_21.pdf.


   *-----------------------------------------*


   **


   *March 21, 2008 *

www.wccusd.net <http://www.wccusd.net/> · e-Weekly archives:
www.wccusd.net/Communications/e-Weekly/index.shtml
<http://www.wccusd.net/Communications/e-Weekly/index.shtml>

* *

* *

*De Anza student wins Governor’s Academic Recognition Award*

/ /

[Photo] Melissa Nhan (center) with two of her teachers: Advanced
Placement (AP) Biology teacher Athena Kraus (left) and AP U.S. History
teacher Lola Hernandez.

*Melissa Nhan, a senior* at De Anza High School, received the Governor’s
Academic Recognition Award on March 11. Melissa was recognized by
Governor Arnold Schwarzenneger for her outstanding academic,
extra-curricular and volunteer achievements. She was one of 144 students
to receive the honor.

“Receiving the award surprised me,” Melissa said of her achievement. She
is president of De Anza’s science club, a member of the varsity tennis
team, and will speak as valedictorian for the Class of 2008 at its
graduation ceremony. Her interests include art and painting, cooking,
ballet, chemistry, and music. And she also likes pets; at the Nhan home
you’ll find two dogs, two rabbits, a tortoise (her brother’s), and her
father’s fish pond in the backyard.

Melissa has applied to Stanford, UC Berkeley and several other UC
campuses, and San Francisco and San Jose state universities. She plans
to pursue a balanced education and is willing to explore any subject,
and says there are simply “too many options” to decide on a career path
just yet. “My horizons are open,” Melissa said.

*Crespi Leadership Club is a “three-peat” in state award program*

* *

[Photo] Cynthia Yip (left) with Leadership teacher Pat Dornan. Cynthia
is holding last year’s state award, and will receive the 2007-08
award—the school’s third in a row—on March 30.

* *

*Students in the Leadership* class at Crespi Middle School entered a
rarified atmosphere when they received the Outstanding Student
Activities Program Award for 2007-08, the third consecutive year they’ve
earned the distinction. Associated Student Body (ASB) President Cynthia
Yip will be presented with the “three-peat” plaque on March 30 at the
general session of the California Association of Student Leaders
Conference in San Jose. “I was happy when we received the award, because
I didn’t want to break the streak,” Cynthia said.

“It’s important for students to learn the value of leadership,” said
Teacher Pat Dornan, who has taught the leadership class at Crespi for 15
years. “Students who engage in co-curricular activities are more
successful than those who have no such activities in their lives,” she
said. “And the leadership students get to be in charge of having fun on
campus.”

[Photo] Cynthia and dance committee chairperson Gyselle Garcia.//

Leadership students are currently planning a dance in April and a
multi-cultural night that’s tentatively scheduled for April 11, an event
that will include performers, food, and dancing. ASB President Cynthia
Yip and dance committee chairperson Gyselle Garcia said they’re
considering Hawaii as the theme for the dance, because—thanks to Ms.
Dornan—“we already have palm trees that light up.” For students who may
be shy about dancing, an interactive video game called “Dance Dance
Revolution” that takes beginners through basic contemporary dance steps
will be shown on a big screen. And ASB students just finished holding
the school’s Renaissance Fair, a quarterly celebration for students with
a grade point average of 2.5 or higher. Activities included a raffle for
a video camera, goodie bags, and team activities.

“The Leadership class really helped my speaking skills,” Cynthia said.
“I was shy and it was really hard to talk to people. Ms. Dornan gave us
assignments to get up in front of the class and timed us for 5, 10, 15
minutes,” she said. “You have to look people in the eye and speak in a
loud, clear voice. When you get up there your legs are shaking. But the
more you do it, the easier it gets,” Cynthia said. “Just be yourself.”

* *

*Steps for Success*

* *

*Take your first steps* toward a college education! Join the Hispanic
Scholarship Fund at our Steps for Success Saturday program to learn more
about preparing for and enrolling in college, as well as paying for
college. All Parents and 7^th – 12^th grade students are invited!
Continental breakfast and lunch will be served. Concurrent workshops
will provide valuable information, including:

* *

*ü *Preparing & Paying for College

*ü *Preparing for the PSAT/SAT

*ü *University Profiles

*ü *Writing Personal Statements

*ü *Researching Financial Aid

* *

*WHEN:* Saturday, April 5, 2008, 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

*WHERE:* DeJean Middle School, 3400 Macdonald Ave., Richmond, CA 94805

*HOW:* Complete the registration information online, via phone, fax or
mail.

* *

*1) To register online please visit:
*http://www.hsf.net/S4S-registration-en.aspx

*2) To register via phone please call toll free: *1-877-473-4636, ext.
2341* *

*3) Please fax RSVP’s to: *Attention: High School Outreach / 415-808-2302**

*4) Mail RSVP’s to: *High School Outreach, 55 - 2^nd St., Suite 1500,
San Francisco, CA 94131

For a copy of the registration form, see
http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Communications/e-Weekly/2008/step_4_success.pdf

* *

*In our schools*

* *

§ *The West Contra Costa Retired Educators* are selling raffle tickets
for their April 3 Scholarship Fundraiser. Donate $5, $10, $25 or any
amount of your choice. Suggested donation is $5 for five tickets. For
tickets, contact Rosemary Blaylock, 526-7054, or e-mail her at
blaylock@... <mailto:blaylock@...>. Let her know how many raffle
tickets you wish to buy. Donations are tax deductible. Or if you wish to
send a donation, mail checks to:

ATTN: Scholarship Chairperson, WCCRE Scholarship

WCCUSD

1108 Bissell Avenue

Richmond, CA 94801

§ *The Gompers Resource Fair* takes place on April 4 from 11:00 a.m. to
2: 30 p.m. at Gompers Continuation High School, 157 – 9^th Street in
Richmond. The community is invited to learn about agencies that provide
local services, including jobs, housing, childcare, and much more. For
more information, contact Marilyn Harrison at 860-6182 or
projectmarilyn3@... <mailto:projectmarilyn3@...>.

§ *A Day at the K:* [Graphic: Kennedy Eagle] On April 12, 2008 John F.
Kennedy High School will host a family-friendly affair at the Kennedy
High School campus to celebrate 40-plus years of Eagledom. All Kennedy
High School students, staff, alumni, their families, and community
members are invited to this celebration. The day will include many
activities throughout the campus, including:

§ Music, dancing, cars and fashions of the decades

§ Carnival & inflatable games

§ Open Gym for basketball and badminton

§ School tours: visit the restored library, new athletic fields, and
gymnasium.

§ See the new Construction Academy, AVID, the Health Center, and
Traveling Clinic

§ Booths for commercial & civic vendors

§ Student performances & student work on display

§ Mural dedication

§ Food representing the multiple cultures of Kennedy

§ Reminiscing with teachers, alumni, and coaches

The day will also mark the opening of the Heritage Center, an area on
the Kennedy campus that showcases trophies, awards, photographs,
yearbooks, and other class paraphernalia of recent and former graduating
classes, and commemorates the accomplishments of the schools’ alumni.
For more information, visit http://www.linemotives.com/jfkeagles.html.

* *

*Board of Education meeting: April 2*

* *

The Board of Education will hold its next regular meeting on April 2 at
Lovonya DeJean Middle School. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m.

* *

* *

*Upcoming committee meetings*

* *

§ Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee: March 26

§ Community Budget Advisory Committee: March 27

§ GATE District Advisory Committee: March 31

* *

* *

*New/updated on the district website*

The following information is now available on the district website,
http://www.wccusd.net <http://www.wccusd.net/>:

§ *High school scholarship information as of March
19—*http://www.wccusd.net/scholarship_info/index.shtml

§ *March 26 Citizens Bond Oversight Committee meeting agenda —*

* *http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/committees/cboc/CBOCAgenda_03_26.pdf

§ *Step for Success Preparing for College Workshop registration form —*

*
*http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Communications/e-Weekly/2008/step_4_success.pdf

§ *What You’ve Told Us: public feedback on the 2008-09 budget —*

* *http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Fiscal/budget/2007-08/what_u_told_us.shtml

§ *Budget Solutions Board presentation, March 19 —*

http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Fiscal/budget/2007-08/Board_Report_3-19.pdf

§ *Bond Program Funding Allocation Plan, March 19 Board presentation —*

*
*http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/construction/Bond_allocation_plan_March_19.pdf

§ *February 28 and March 5 Board of Education meeting minutes —*

http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/board/minutes/index.shtml

This Saturday we will have tables, petitions, goodies, and designated
locations for teams to go out and collect signatures.  We are first
meeting at Starbucks to get supplies and directions. We will provide
each team with a site within the WCCUSD boundaries to collect
signatures for roughly 2.5 hours. Afterwards we will meet back at
Starbucks to collect the petitions and award the bonuses to the
winning teams.

WHEN: Saturday, March 29th
TIME: 9:30 – 12:30 PM
WHERE: Starbucks, off Richmond Parkway, 15521 San Pablo Ave, Bldg A-1
(in Shopping Center)
BONUSES: $100 for each team member to get 500 or more signatures!

http://DistrictGuide.org

CPEC (Citizens for Postive Education Change)

For more information contact Linda Ruiz-Lozito or
Michelle Chenault
M CONSULTING, LLC
PO Box 21707
El Sobrante, CA 94820
Tel: (510) 386-9033
Fax: (510) 404-5262

--- In wccusdtalk@yahoogroups.com, "rebecca494" <hrebwrite@...> wrote:
>
> I was approached about the idea of trustee area election of Board
> Trustees about a year ago. I got on board immediately because of my
> long history with the district. I think the impact of having one area
> dominating a school district as large as the WCCUSD is extremely
> detrimental to the well being of the school district.
>
> Over the years since I entered my oldest in 1986 we have seen
> dominance by the City of Richmond and now by the City of El Cerrito.
> Dominance by any sector of the WCCUSD is not in the best interests of
> the education of the students.
>
> The issue of representative Trustee areas has come up over the years.
> But, it needs the support of the entire district. Not necessarily,
> everyone, but enough to pass the measure.
>
> So many, past and present, have tried to come up with solutions to our
> educational problems. But nothing has worked. The dominant El Cerrito
> majority of the last ten years has produced a bond program that is not
> successful and has not accomplished its own goals. So now maybe, it
> might be time to try a representative form of governance over the
> WCCUSD. To me, representative Trustee areas is an alternative to
> breaking up the district (which the State of Ca has made clear it will
> not approve). Right now the City of Richmond is threatening to break
> free from the district. Recently, the City of Hercules went as far as
> the ballot box to break free from this district. I can remember when
> the City of El Cerrito, and the City of Pinole wanted to break away
> from the district.
>
> Trustee areas are a cheaper alternative. And, require signatures on
> petitions in the five proposed trustee areas to qualify for the
> ballot. Then let the voters decide. Maybe we ought to give this a try.
>
> Rebecca Hazlewood
> Parent ECHS graduates, 1999 & 2006
>
> --- In wccusdtalk@yahoogroups.com, "Charley Cowens"
> <charley.cowens@> wrote:
> >
> > On the governance theme, here's an announcement for an info session on
> > moving towards ward elections within WCCUSD...also tomorrow, but only
> > for 1.5 to 2 hours. My connection to this is that I am one of the
> > organizers of this.
> >
> > Charley Cowens
> >
> >
> > =====
> >
> > Public Meeting:
> > Information for Voters Regarding Proposed Trustee Areas for
> > West Contra Costa Unified School District
> >
> > This meeting is being held by Citizens for Positive Education
Change, a
> >
> > group comprised of local residents, parents, and political advocates.
> >
> > Meeting date:
> > Saturday, February 23, 2008
> > 10:00 AM
> >
> > Easter Hill United Methodist Church
> > 3911 Cutting Blvd., Richmond
> >
> > Currently, West Contra Costa County School Board members can live
> >
> > anywhere within the district and through at-large elections they are
> > elected to represent the entire school district.
> >
> > Citizens for Positive Education Change is proposing the creation of
> > trustee areas. It requires school board members to live within a
> >
> > designated subarea of the school district and enables them to provide
> > direct representation for the schools within the subarea.
> >
> > At this public meeting we will discuss the pros and cons of trustee
> > areas and present a map outlining five proposed trustee areas.
> >
> >
> > Please contact Michelle Chenault via telephone (510) 778-9098, or
email
> > us at trusteeareas at aol.com, with any questions you may have.
> >
>

-------- Original Message --------
Date:  Fri, 28 Mar 2008 18:16:23 -0700
From:  Ehara, Paul <PEhara@...>



The complete version of the March 28 e-Weekly—with photos—is also posted
at http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Communications/e-Weekly/2008/03_28.pdf.

---------------------------------------------------


   **


   *March 28, 2008 *

www.wccusd.net <http://www.wccusd.net/> · e-Weekly archives:
www.wccusd.net/Communications/e-Weekly/index.shtml
<http://www.wccusd.net/Communications/e-Weekly/index.shtml>

* *

*Community honors the “Green Team” of Richmond and Kennedy students *

/[Photo]/ /Left to right: Marvin Salazar, Rayshana Brown, Jaimee
Dickerson, and Esther Taufa produced a video public service announcement
that led to Marvin’s selection as one of three California Climate
Champions in the state./

*At a Richmond High School assembly* on March 19, students from Richmond
and Kennedy high schools were recognized by their peers and local
community for producing an award-winning public service announcement
(PSA) on what local communities can do to counteract global warming.
Marvin Salazar and Jaimee Dickerson of Richmond High School, and Esther
Taufa and Rayshana Brown of Kennedy High School—with help from the
Richmond Youth Media Project—produced the winning PSA. The contest was
sponsored by the Air Resources Board of the California Environmental
Protection Agency. Richmond Mayor Gayle McLaughlin also presented the
students with a resolution commending them for their achievement.

Marvin was additionally named California Climate Champion by the Air
Resources Board. He was one of 20 students in the state to reach the
competitive interview stage, and emerged as one of three students
selected as California Climate Champion. In this role he will represent
the United States during all-expenses paid trips in May to London in
March and to Kobe, Japan in May.

“This award gives me a platform to speak about climate change and talk
about my work to prevent it from happening,” Marvin said after the
assembly. “If we can inspire others to take a stand because I took a
stand, then that’s good,” he added. “On the tour I’ll be able to
exchange ideas, and explain what I’m doing. If we can all work together,
from different parts of the world, we can make it happen.”

“Being a part of this has made me feel like I’m closer to achieving my
dreams—to end poverty and violence,” said Kennedy’s Rayshana Brown. “To
get recognition is huge and makes me want to work even harder to achieve
my dreams. And I love my group!” For Jaimee Dickerson the chance to work
together as a team was important. “I found a new family which is pretty
cool. And knowing that I can make a difference just gives me motivation
to keep on trying… I know that I’ll have kids one day, and my kids will
have kids, and I want to make the world a better place for them. I’ve
always believed that you should leave the world a better place than when
you came in.”

/[Photo] The extended family of the winning “Green Team” includes
students in Richmond High School’s Multimedia Academy and Richmond Youth
Media./

Kennedy senior Esther Taufa’s involvement with the project is part of
her career trajectory. “This means a lot to me ’cause when I first
started high school I wanted to be a businesswoman. When I joined the
North American Sustainability Youth Leadership group, that changed my
mind to study urban planning. I really want to have change in the
community. I have a lot of younger siblings, and I want change so that
when they’re in high school it will be a different world for them,”
added Esther. “So this means a lot to me because I want a better
community, not just for myself and for my family, but for everybody.”

Jennielynn Dino Rossi, the district’s career academies placement
director, found the students’ teamwork impressive. “The most incredible
thing I noticed was how fast the team got the project done. That in
itself represented ultimate teamwork at its best,” Ms. Dino Rossi said.
“This was a lesson, not just for the students and for their peers, but
for their teachers as well—the lesson of ‘when there’s a will, there’s a
way.’ Every time these kids earn an achievement, honor, or award, they
help their peers recognize that they can make it too.”

* *

*Crespi** Middle School** hosts district spelling bee*

/[Photo] Judges Vera Rowsey, Doris Avalos and Vince Rhea (standing, left
to right) proctor the district middle school Spelling Bee on March 20./

*Students from middle schools* across the district traveled to Crespi
Middle School to participate in the district’s annual spelling bee on
March 20. Students representing their schools included:

Adams—Sheila Bouzon, Sarah Dounagdara, Hanna Goldman, William Russell,
and Genevieve Simmons

DeJean— Luis Chavez, Stanley Dishmon, Randi Johnson, Ariel Norwood, and
Jessica Vilaysouk Hercules—Arianna Bell, Gurinder Rai, Chandrika Sharma,
Janee Gail Trinidad, and Kelly Xi

Pinole—Saadi Bhatti, Ariadne Cachero, Brandon Larson, Vashti Salas, and
Jannette Sandoval

Crespi—Christy Cortez, Johnson Huynh, Reginald Johnson, Darico Rose, and
Saira Shakeel

Portola—Cooper Frye, Joshua Ko, Haley Slamon, Anthony Souksamphanh, and
Kristy Tran

Stewart—Alexa Belan, Julia Chang, and Frank Luna

*In our schools*

§ *West Contra Costa Retired Educators Scholarship Fundraiser,* *April
3* Drawing. Raffle tickets may be purchased from Rosemary Blaylock at
510-526-7054 at 526-7054. Donate $5, $10, $25 or any amount of your
choice. Suggested donation is $5 for five tickets. For tickets, contact
Rosemary Blaylock, 526-7054, blaylock@... <mailto:blaylock@...>.
Let her know how many raffle tickets you wish to buy. Donations are tax
deductible. Send donations to:

ATTN: Scholarship Chairperson, WCCRE Scholarship

WCCUSD

1108 Bissell Avenue

Richmond, CA 94801

§ *Gompers Resource Fair, April 4:* 11 a.m. to 2: 30 p.m. at Gompers,
157 – 9^th Street, Richmond. Community is invited to learn about
agencies that provide local services, including Jobs, housing,
childcare, and much more. For more information, contact Marilyn Harrison
at 860-6182 or projectmarilyn3@... <mailto:projectmarilyn3@...>.

§ *Steps for Success:* Take your first steps toward a college education
on *Saturday, April 5* at DeJean Middle School. Join the Hispanic
Scholarship Fund at its Steps for Success Saturday program to learn more
about preparing for and enrolling in college, as well as paying for
college. All parents and 7^th – 12^th grade students are invited!
Continental breakfast and lunch will be served. Concurrent workshops
will provide valuable information, including:

* *

*ü *Preparing & Paying for College

*ü *Preparing for the PSAT/SAT

*ü *University Profiles

*ü *Writing Personal Statements

*ü *Researching Financial Aid

* *

*WHEN:* Saturday, April 5, 2008, 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

*WHERE: *DeJean Middle School, 3400 Macdonald Ave., Richmond, CA 94805

*HOW: *Complete the registration information online, via phone, fax or
mail.

* *

*1) To register online please visit:
*http://www.hsf.net/S4S-registration-en.aspx

*2) To register via phone please call toll free: *1-877-473-4636, ext.
2341* *

*3) Please fax RSVP’s to: *Attention: High School Outreach / 415-808-2302**

*4) Mail RSVP’s to: *High School Outreach, 55 - 2^nd St., Suite 1500,
San Francisco, CA 94131

§ *A Day at the K:* /[Graphic] Kennedy Eagle/

On April 12, 2008 John F. Kennedy High School will host a
family-friendly affair at the Kennedy High School campus to celebrate
40-plus years of Eagledom. All Kennedy High School students, staff,
alumni, their families, and community members are invited to this
celebration. The day will include many activities throughout the campus,
including:

§ Music, dancing, cars and fashions of the decades

§ Carnival and inflatable games

§ Open Gym for basketball and badminton

§ School tours: visit the restored library, new athletic fields, and
gymnasium.

§ See the new Construction Academy, AVID, the Health Center, and
Traveling Clinic

§ Booths for commercial and civic vendors

§ Student performances and student work on display

§ Mural dedication

§ Food representing the multiple cultures of Kennedy

§ Reminiscing with teachers, alumni, and coaches

* *

§ *The Transition Resource Fair* for students with developmental
disabilities transitioning into adulthood will be held on April 12,
2008. It is sponsored by the WCCUSD Special Education Transition
Program, Regional Center of the East Bay, West Contra Costa County Adult
Service Providers, Developmental Disabilities Council of Contra Costa
County, Supervisor John Gioia, and United Way of the Bay Area.

Date: Saturday, 4/12/08

Time: 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Place: Vista Hills Education Center, 2625 Barnard St., Richmond

There will be door prizes, free hot dogs, and entertainment. A shuttle
service will be available from Hilltop Mall at the JCPenney outside
entrance starting at 9:30 a.m. Because Individual Education Programs
specify linkages to community services as part of any transition plan,
this event will be especially relevant for secondary students. For more
information, contact Norma Ramos at (510) 307-4551.

* *

* *

*School construction update*

* *

*Hercules** High School***

/[Photos] (Left) Grading and preparation for baseball field underway;
(right) looking down third base line from behind backstop./

* *

* *

*Montalvin** Elementary School** *

/[Photos] (Left) Looking west on the new Kay Road extension towards
Montalvin Elementary School, with school in background. (Right) Dropoff,
turnaround, and parking areas at end of Kay Road on southeast side of
the school will greatly improve access to school and relieve traffic
congestion during student dropoff and pickup times./

* *

*Pinole** Middle School***

/[Photos] Stucco work on north end (above) and front of main classroom
building (right)./

* *

*Helms** Middle School***

/[Photos] Front of buildings on north side of campus. //Crew at work on
concrete footings./

* *

*El Cerrito** High School*//

/[Photos] Sheetrock installation (left) and wiring of electrical room
(right) in Building B./

/Below: Inside the practice gymnasium (left); view of finished exterior
stonework, Building C./

* *

*Board of Education meeting: April 2*

* *

The Board of Education will hold its next regular meeting on April 2 at
Lovonya DeJean Middle School, 3400 Macdonald Avenue in Richmond. The
meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m.

* *

* *

*Upcoming committee meetings*

* *

§ GATE District Advisory Committee
<http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/Gate/committee/index.shtml>: March 31

§ Board Facilities Subcommittee
<http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/committees/facilities/index.shtml>: April 9

§ Community Advisory Committee for Special Education
<http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/specialeducation/committee/index.shtml>:
April 10

* *

* *

*New/updated on the district website*

The following information is now available on the district website,
http://www.wccusd.net <http://www.wccusd.net/>:

§ *EIR Scoping Meeting presentation (Castro construction/Portola
replacement project) — *

http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/construction/Facilities/Portola/WCCUSD_Castro-PPT_03\
1008.pdf

§ *April 2 Board of Education meeting agenda and packet —
*http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/board/calendar.shtml

§ *WCCUSD Reporter Quarterly Newsletter, Winter 2008 (Volume 1, Number 1)—*

http://www.wccusd.k12.ca.us/about/pdf/Reporter_Winter_08.pdf


*ABOUT THE e-WEEKLY*

The WCCUSD e-Weekly is produced by the West Contra Costa Unified
District Communications Office, (510) 231-1132. To subscribe or
unsubscribe, e-mail _pehara@..._. Pass on this invitation to join
our mailing list to other employees, students, family members, and
community members. You are welcome to share information from this
publication and the district website (_http://www.wccusd.net)_ through
electronic communication and print publications.

Best,

Paul

* * *

Paul Ehara, director of communications

West Contra Costa Unified School District

1108 Bissell Avenue, Rm. 215

Richmond, CA 94801-3135

PEhara@... <mailto:PEhara@...>

Office: 510.231.1133 / Cell: 510.619.6964 / Fax: 510.620-2242

This forum has been moribund lately, to say the least! So, let me stir
it up a bit...

Check this out:

http://www.sfgate.com/webdb/citypay/

I'm told that most of the city employees on these lists will get
lifetime medical benefits, plus pensions equaling 90% of their ending
earnings (including overtime). Could this possibly be true?

Too bad Richmond isn't listed here. From talking with some city
employees, my impression is that the pay situation in Richmond is
probably similar to Vallejo, San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose.

We can't even make our top teacher pay equal to the base pay in these
city agencies, plus we have essentially no opportunity to pad it with
these outrageous overtime checks. Are we who work in education all
suckers, or what?

Ralph-

Your attempt to rile things up didn't seem to work. To sort of answer your
sort of question, I think we are all suckers.

Charley Cowens

On Sun, Mar 30, 2008 at 8:24 PM, Ralph Bedwell <bedwellr@...> wrote:

> This forum has been moribund lately, to say the least! So, let me stir
> it up a bit...
>
> Check this out:
>
> http://www.sfgate.com/webdb/citypay/
>
> I'm told that most of the city employees on these lists will get
> lifetime medical benefits, plus pensions equaling 90% of their ending
> earnings (including overtime). Could this possibly be true?
>
> Too bad Richmond isn't listed here. From talking with some city
> employees, my impression is that the pay situation in Richmond is
> probably similar to Vallejo, San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose.
>
> We can't even make our top teacher pay equal to the base pay in these
> city agencies, plus we have essentially no opportunity to pad it with
> these outrageous overtime checks. Are we who work in education all
> suckers, or what?
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Hi,

For some hard numbers for Richmond Public Employees, Contact Council Member
Tom Butt at tom.butt@... (www.tombutt.com).

As many probably know, Tom publishes an excellent e-newsletter and in the
past, especially during Richmond's budget melt down, Tom published info on
who gets what and when. He keeps an archive, and when contacted, he will be
happy to forward the relevant e-newsletter. Might be a bit dated, now of
course, some salaries have been changed and positions, added and others
eliminated, however even a slightly dated e-newsletter will be adequate.

The City of SF eliminated pensions based on the highest salary of the last
year for new-hires as of 1967.

Tony Sustak

   _____

From: wccusdtalk@yahoogroups.com [mailto:wccusdtalk@yahoogroups.com] On
Behalf Of Charley Cowens
Sent: Wednesday, April 02, 2008 4:07 PM
To: wccusdtalk@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [wccusdtalk] Bay Area Public Employee Salaries



Ralph-

Your attempt to rile things up didn't seem to work. To sort of answer your
sort of question, I think we are all suckers.

Charley Cowens

On Sun, Mar 30, 2008 at 8:24 PM, Ralph Bedwell <bedwellr@yahoo.
<mailto:bedwellr%40yahoo.com> com> wrote:

> This forum has been moribund lately, to say the least! So, let me stir
> it up a bit...
>
> Check this out:
>
> http://www.sfgate. <http://www.sfgate.com/webdb/citypay/>
com/webdb/citypay/
>
> I'm told that most of the city employees on these lists will get
> lifetime medical benefits, plus pensions equaling 90% of their ending
> earnings (including overtime). Could this possibly be true?
>
> Too bad Richmond isn't listed here. From talking with some city
> employees, my impression is that the pay situation in Richmond is
> probably similar to Vallejo, San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose.
>
> We can't even make our top teacher pay equal to the base pay in these
> city agencies, plus we have essentially no opportunity to pad it with
> these outrageous overtime checks. Are we who work in education all
> suckers, or what?
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]






[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

--

	 Scottie Smith


  -------------- Forwarded Message: --------------
From: rcs101@...
To: March4Education@yahoogroups.com, <March4Education@yahoogroups.com>
Cc: Marilyn Langlois <langlois-rine@...>
Subject: Re: [March4Education] FW: OPEN:SAVE THE DATE: 5/15/08 Student
Mobilization ?
Date: Thu, 3 Apr 2008 15:25:39 +0000




--Marilyn:

I was just thinking that we are approaching the 4 year anniversary of our march
to Sac. I am happy to see the youth taking a leadership position on an issue
that is a continual problem for our students and others. Therefore, they can
count on me for support in May.

Also, how many of you would like to go to Sac during the Week of M4Ed
anniversary to lobby the halls and protest the budget cuts?



	 Scottie Smith


   -------------- Original message from Marilyn Langlois
<langlois-rine@...>: --------------


             Hello friends,
Is anyone still out there?  What's going on now is so reminiscent of the
situation four years ago that got us to walk 70 miles to Sacramento.

Let's support Youth Together in this effort, OK??

Marilyn

----------
From: "Linda Joanna Salinas" <jo.salinas@...>
Date: Wed, 2 Apr 2008 11:59:44 -0700
To: "Linda Salinas" <jo.salinas@...>
Subject: OPEN:SAVE THE DATE: 5/15/08 Student Mobilization ?

I know yall have busy lives but please read, it affects our youngsters and
community

Hi folks,

I am writing to you (yes you) because I consider you an Ally to students and
educational justice.  If you dont know yet, ARNOLD is cutting almost 5 billion
from schools, this is the largest cut in California History.  This cut would put
us dead last in the nation, we have hit rock bottom in educational spending as
California. This translates to WCCUSD having to cut 10.4 Million dollars from
our schools.

The students really need your support and I hope you can do atleast one of the
following things.
Forward this email and get the word out :D (Simple Enough)
Sign the endorsement form that is attached and email it to me
jo.salinas@... or ljoanna@.... This is time sensitive and I
need by the end of April.
Email me organizations and contacts to ask for endorsements.
Help collect postcards, which I'll have next week to distribute
SAVE THE DATE!!! Join is in the Statewide Action in Sac Town on MAY 15th.
Help us get transportation/carpool to take people to Sacras and donations.
Look at Oakland's District Took Kit, it has facts and sample letters
Thank you for your support,

Linda Salinas
Richmond High School
Youth Together
510.412.8599
213.479.8854 (Cell)

P.S. If I havent heard from you by next week I will begin making personal phone
calls. ;) So, if you want to make my life easier and yours, please take a stand
and protect the future of our community. :D

PLEASE FORWARD WIDELY ** PLEASE FORWARD WIDELY  ** PLEASE FORWARD WIDELY

SAVE THE DATE: THURS. MAY 15th, 2008

JOIN THOUSANDS OF STUDENTS FROM ACROSS THE STATE FOR A DAY OF ACTION
AGAINST THE GOVERNOR'S ATTACKS ON EDUCATION

Thousands of students, parents, community advocates and supporters will converge
in Sacramento on Thursday, May 15th to demand the Governor keep true to his
promise of the "Year of Education" by fully funding education!

May 17th, 2008  marks the 54th anniversary of the Supreme Court's Brown vs.
Board of Education decision ending "separate and unequal" education.  Fifty-four
years later, youth of color, immigrant youth and poor communities face unequal
schools, high disappearance/drop-out rates, poor school conditions and obstacles
to higher education!

The Governor's proposed $5 billion budget cuts to education (for 2008-2009) will
undoubtedly have a devastating and disproportionate impact on our already
under-funded schools‹CA already ranks 46th in the nation in per pupil spending.


This is a critical opportunity to have student, parent and community voices
heard in a powerful way. Join the Campaign for Quality Education (CQE) for a
statewide student action in Sacramento on May 15th to demand that the Governor
make good on his promise of the "Year of Education" and ensure that ALL
California schools are fully funded.

- - - - - - - - -

More information to come soon!!

To be added to a May 15th listserve--for updates on the event, email:
carmen@...
The Campaign for Quality Education (CQE) is a statewide effort supported by
organizations all over California dedicated to better schools and racial justice
in education.  The CQE is coordinated by Californians for Justice, Youth
Together, Public Advocates, and the Applied Research Center. Campaign supporters
include many grassroots community organizations as well as policy and legal
groups.



--
Linda Joanna Salinas
Youth Together Site Organizer
Richmond High School
213.479.8854 (Cell)
510.645.9207 ext. 307
***********************************************
The mission of Youth Together is to facilitate community empowerment, health,
and justice through the development of youth leaders and organizers grounded in
the principles of multiracial unity, justice, and peace.

"Now is the time for us to come together with one another, to organize, to speak
out and speak up on behalf of each other. There is no time to waste, while we
debate, define, and discuss; the enemy continues his genocidal plan. We need to
bear in mind the Ashanti proverb: \'Two men in a burning house must not stop to
argue.' " - Dr. Mutulu Shakur



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Apr. 27--The West Contra Costa school board named Bruce Harter
superintendent Wednesday, capping an eight-month national hunt for a
leader to run the county's second-largest school district.

The 58-year-old takes the helm of the 32,000-student West Contra Costa
Unified School District July 3.

He will make $225,000 a year in salary, said board President Charles
Ramsey. The four-year contract also gives Harter about $50,000 for
housing and car allowance, pension and other benefits, bringing his
total compensation close to $275,000, Ramsey said.

Yes, it's a good job if you can get it; but, it's not like Dr. Harter's
salary is out of line with what other school districts across the state are
paying.  Also, for the people who think we should break our school district
into smaller parts, here's the perfect reason NOT to.  (3 Superintendents
salaries x  $160,000 [very conservative average] = 480,000 Dollars, now that
sure makes Dr. Harter's salary look like a bargain!).  For anyone who thinks
that we are not going to pay top dollar for a good superintendent with all
the challenges that face our school district, all I can say is, you must be
dreaming.  Yes, it is a very high salary but I will say that Dr. Harter sure
seems to be doing a better job of earning his salary than our past
superintendent - Dr. Gloria Johnston.

Here are some facts that I was able to find via GOOGLE.

This information was taken from the CA Dept. of Education website:
www.cde.ca.gov/ta/ac/sa/salaries0506.asp


For School Districts with more than 20,000 students, the average
Superintendent's salary is as follows:
Year 2003/04  $179,061
Year 2004/05  $185,251
Year 2005/06  $195,054

Also I found that the highest paid Superintentdent makes $300,000 per year,
the lowest makes $90,000, with the average being $144,412.  (Don't forget
this is just the base salary, not the added benefits such as housing and car
allowances that many districts pay to make the complete package. As Jill
states, Dr. Harter's salary is $225,000; that's $75,000 less than the top
paid superintendent in our state.)

These numbers are based on salaries reported by six geographic areas in the
state.  Likewise, according to this report, for the 11 central-office
professional positions (including the Superintendent), the highest salaries
reported were found in urban areas that include San Francisco, Los Angeles,
and San Diego, including their suburbs.

These numbers came from information supplied on AB 618
Date of Hearing:   May 16, 2007
                         ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
                                   Mark Leno, Chair
                     AB 618 (Karnette) - As Amended:  May 1, 2007
           Policy Committee:                              EducationVote:6-3
           Urgency:     No                   State Mandated Local Program:
           No     Reimbursable:              No

On Fri, Apr 4, 2008 at 2:35 PM, sunsetjill <sunsetjill@...> wrote:

>   Apr. 27--The West Contra Costa school board named Bruce Harter
> superintendent Wednesday, capping an eight-month national hunt for a
> leader to run the county's second-largest school district.
>
> The 58-year-old takes the helm of the 32,000-student West Contra Costa
> Unified School District July 3.
>
> He will make $225,000 a year in salary, said board President Charles
> Ramsey. The four-year contract also gives Harter about $50,000 for
> housing and car allowance, pension and other benefits, bringing his
> total compensation close to $275,000, Ramsey said.
>
>
>


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

-------- Original Message --------
Subject:  Fire at Crespi Middle School
Date:  Sat, 5 Apr 2008 16:43:43 -0700
From:  Ehara, Paul <PEhara@...>



       *  *^




   *News from the West Contra Costa Unified School District*

1108 Bissell Ave. * Richmond, CA 94801-3135 * (510) 231-1100

www.wccusd.net <http://www.wccusd.net/>

_
_For immediate release * April 5, 2008 or thereafter * No. 0708-14

Contact: Paul Ehara, director of communications: 510-231-1133  |  Cell:
510-619-6964

*No school for Crespi Middle School students on Monday and Tuesday,
April 7-8 due to fire *

A three-alarm fire broke out at Crespi Middle School early Saturday
morning, resulting in serious damage to the administrative building
which houses the main school office, library, attendance and counseling
offices, the teacher lounge/workroom, and some classrooms.  School and
district staffs are assessing the damage and are determining the extent
of the repairs and adjustments that will be needed.



At this time, school has been cancelled for Monday and Tuesday, April
7-8, with the plan that staff will return on Tuesday and students will
return on Wednesday, pending assessment of the amount of work needed for
the school to be ready for the safe return of students and staff.  The
district will provide further information on the re-opening of Crespi
Middle School when this assessment is completed.



#   #   #