Newsletter | Monday, May 6, 2024

Cohort 22 Completes Administrator Induction Program

On April 23, 2024, Cohort 22 of the Administrator Induction Program Colloquium was celebrated at Hartnell College. With great pride and enthusiasm, MCOE announced the successful completion of this phase by the candidates, marking a milestone in their journey toward obtaining a Clear Administrative Credential. The candidates of Cohort 22 showcased their dedication and expertise through their colloquium presentations. Each participant demonstrated their readiness to take on educational leadership responsibilities with confidence and proficiency. Recognition is extended to the Director of Leadership and School Systems Maralina Milazzo, whose exemplary guidance and dedication have been instrumental in overseeing MCOE’s Educator Preparedness Programs, ensuring the success and readiness of educators for the challenges of today's educational landscape.

Heartfelt congratulations are in order for all the candidates of Cohort 22, celebrating their remarkable achievements. Their commitment to excellence and passion for educational leadership exemplify the MCOE’s mission to provide the leadership, support and service excellence needed to prepare the diverse students of Monterey County for success in each step of their educational journey.

MCOE’s Early Learning Program Hartnell STEAM Discovery Academy Grand Opening

The Monterey County Office of Education's Early Learning Program celebrated a significant milestone with the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the new Hartnell STEAM Discovery Academy on Wednesday, April 10. Situated on Hartnell College’s East Campus in Salinas, the academy unveiled its state-of-the-art facility to a diverse audience, including educational leaders, board members, community partners, and media representatives. 

Faldas y Flores, Folklore Mexicano of Salinas Child Development Center, opened the ceremony with youth dancers. Speakers at the ceremony emphasized the importance of this new facility, with Monterey County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deneen Guss highlighting its strategic location in supporting Hartnell College student parents as they pursue their educational goals. Senior Director of MCOE's Early Learning Program Sonia Jaramillo, shared her excitement at the podium, acknowledging the academy's potential to make a profound impact on the community. 

At the heart of the academy's mission is a commitment to fostering exploration and innovation through the integration of science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics (STEAM), catering to children ages 2 to 5 years old. Supported by a Federal Head Start Grant, the academy features three Head Start classrooms and a State Inclusion classroom, serving approximately 80 children. Construction began in February 2023, transforming the vision into a cutting-edge facility designed to nurture the holistic development of young learners.

MCOE's Early Learning Program, supported by Head Start and the California State Preschool Program, is dedicated to enriching the lives of children and families across Monterey County. Offering comprehensive services, including child development education, mental health referrals, and access to nutrition and health services, the program caters to over 700 children at 17 sites. Additionally, the Early Learning Program Head Start services are available at no cost to income-eligible families in Monterey County, including families participating in CalWORKS, working full-time, attending school, or enrolled in job training, ensuring equitable access to high-quality education for all.

Inside Education Monterey County Wraps Up for the Season

The Inside Education Monterey County wrapped up with their final tour of the season, which focused on 21st-Century Learning. Community members boarded a school bus alongside Deputy Superintendent Brett W. McFadden and Math Program Coordinator II, Lora Carey, who graciously led the tour and guided participants through a series of school visits. On Friday, April 12, the final cohort of 2023-24 was warmly received by three schools: Everett Alvarez High School, Washington Middle School, and Salinas High School.

At each stop along the tour, participants had the unique opportunity to connect with school principals, dedicated educators, and the students themselves. These interactions offered valuable insights and deeper exploration into the specialized programs offered at each location. Inside the classrooms, participants were immersed in the dynamic landscape of 21st-century learning. From engaging student workshops to engaging math classrooms, they witnessed firsthand the diverse methodologies that define modern education. 21st-century learning embraces a multifaceted approach, incorporating elements such as the multidisciplinary approach, experiential learning, and culturally relevant pedagogy, all aimed at guiding students toward success in both academia and their future careers.

Classrooms are thoughtfully designed to foster deeper hands-on learning experiences, with an emphasis on universal design and differentiation. The multidisciplinary approach connects learning across domains, nurturing critical thinking skills and fostering creativity. Experiential learning promotes innovation and enhances retention, while real-world connections embody learning with a purpose. Initiatives like College and Career Readiness, including advanced placement courses, Dual Enrollment, and College Technical Education Pathways, pave the way for students' future success. Culturally relevant topics further enrich the educational experience, affirming students' cultural identities and providing a responsive learning environment for all.

Behind the scenes, MCOE School Bus Driver, Ms. Marisol Ceja, ensured a smooth and timely return for all participants, facilitating a lunchtime debrief where reflections on the morning's events were shared. As the final chapter of this season's Inside Education Monterey County tours comes to a close, the memories and insights gained serve as a testament to the ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in education.

Guitars Not Gun Empowers Youth Through Music With A Generous Donation

The Monterey County Office of Education (MCOE) and the Monterey County Chapter of Guitars Not Guns recently joined forces to celebrate the profound impact of music, community, and generosity. Guitars Not Guns Director and Co-Founder of the Monterey Chapter Steve Vagnini presented MCOE with 200 Keith Urban Yamaha Guitars and Gator guitar cases, generously donated through Monterey County Gives. 

Guitars Not Guns is a nonprofit charity dedicated to providing guitars and music lessons to at-promise youth as an alternative to violence. Thanks to the support of Mr. Vagnini and the dedicated volunteers of the Monterey County chapter, all 200 guitars were distributed to 10 South Monterey County school districts. Representatives from these districts gathered at the beautiful, joyful celebration, which took place on Monday, April 22, to receive the instruments, helping to enrich the lives of countless students.

Monterey County Gives, an annual charitable campaign organized by the Monterey County Weekly, the Community Foundation for Monterey County, and the Monterey Peninsula Foundation, played a pivotal role in making this donation possible. This year, the campaign raised over $25,000 from nearly 200 donors, marking the largest all-at-once guitar donation in Guitars Not Guns history.

For over a decade, Guitars Not Guns has been dedicated to providing at-promise youth with a positive outlet through music. Their impact in Monterey County alone has been profound, serving over 3,000 children and nurturing a love for music in our youth. With this generous donation, they have extended their reach even further, ensuring that all schools in our community have access to the transformative power of music.

Celebrating MCOE's April Employees of the Month

MCOE Employees of the Month are honorably recognized and nominated by their coworkers for outstanding job performances. Each month, Monterey County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deneen Guss, the MCOE Communications team, and the awardees' managers and team members visit each awardee for a special surprise visit at their work location with balloons, a certificate, and an MCOE bag of swag. This month, MCOE is proud to recognize three extraordinary employees.

See MCOE’s employee of the month webpage.

Estefania Viscarra (pictured left), Administrative Assistant II, is a valued member of the Language and Literacy team in MCOE’s Educational Services Division. Dawn Tovey (pictured middle), Director Controller of Internal Business Services in the Finance & Business Services Division, is an extraordinary leader, mentor, and friend to everyone she oversees. Janynne Julag-Ay (pictured right), Special Education Teacher at John Gutierrez Middle School, shines a beacon of dedication and care.

The Monterey County School Boards Association Hosted its Annual Excellence in Education Award Dinner

School governance team members from across Monterey County gathered for the annual Monterey County School Boards Association (MCSBA) dinner, where they celebrated the dedication and impact of Special Kids Connect (SKC). This esteemed organization was the much-deserving recipient of the 2024 Excellence in Education Award, a significant recognition of its commitment to supporting families with loved ones facing disabilities. The award was presented by MCSBA President David Gaboni, and Executive Director of SKC Lori Luzader accepted it at the association's annual dinner and organizational meeting on Friday, April 12, at Hartnell Community College.

Special Kids Connect, a standout among 35 nominees, was carefully selected by Monterey County School District board members to receive the prestigious award. This accolade acknowledges the organization's profound and transformative contributions to the lives of children and youth within the community. The impact of SKC is far-reaching within Monterey County. Their diverse array of programs and services, from parent workshops to resource fairs, educational conferences, and recreational programs, are tailored to meet the evolving needs of the special needs community. This comprehensive approach plays a pivotal role in helping families navigate the intricate landscape of services available for children with developmental disabilities, making a significant difference in their lives.

Monterey County Home Charter School and Alternative Education Program Host Successful College and Career Fair for Students

Monterey County Office of Education’s Monterey County Home Charter School (MCHCS) and Alternative Education Program recently joined forces to organize a dynamic college and career fair. Led by MCHCS College and Career Coach Trina Basse and Academic Counselor for Alternative Education Allie Ferguson, the event aimed to provide students with invaluable insights into various educational and career pathways.

The fair welcomed over 20 representatives from a diverse range of institutions and organizations. Among them were representatives from the armed forces, Pebble Beach Co., Salinas Valley Health, Hartnell College's Nursing Department, Monterey Peninsula College (MPC), Cabrillo College, California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB), Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), California Conservation Corps, Center for Employment Training (CET), and Salinas Fire Department, to name a few.

Throughout the event, students had the opportunity to engage directly with representatives, gaining firsthand knowledge about different career options, educational programs, and potential pathways. This interactive exchange was instrumental in helping students explore their interests and aspirations, as well as understand the requirements and opportunities associated with various professions.

The Monterey County Food Bank generously provided lunch for all students, representatives, and staff, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.

Bradley Union School District was Accepted into the National Network of Innovative

School Districts

Bradley Union School District has recently achieved a significant milestone by being accepted into the prestigious League of Innovative Schools. This national network, overseen by Digital Promise, a global nonprofit dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for all learners, serves as a hub for connecting and supporting the most forward-thinking leaders in education.

Amidst a highly competitive selection process, Bradley Union School District emerged as a standout candidate, recognized for its exemplary educational leadership, commitment to equity and excellence, innovative approach to learning, noteworthy achievements, and collaborative spirit.

Founded in 2011, the League of Innovative Schools has been a driving force in pioneering innovative learning and leadership practices. As a newly minted member, Bradley Union School District gains unparalleled access to research-backed strategies for addressing multifaceted challenges, remains abreast of cutting-edge educational methodologies, and has the platform to implement inventive solutions tailored to the diverse needs of its student body.

This significant achievement is a testament to Bradley Union School District's dedication to providing exceptional education and embracing progressive approaches to learning. MCOE extends our heartfelt congratulations!

MPUSD Schools Earn Purple Star Program Designation for Supporting Military-Connected Students

The California Department of Education recently honored La Mesa School, Marshall Elementary School, and Monte Vista TK-8 School from the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District for their exemplary support of Military-Connected students, designating them as California Purple Star Program schools.

The Purple Star Program holds significant importance as it addresses the unique challenges faced by military-connected students and their families during transitions. By publicly recognizing schools like La Mesa, Marshall, and Monte Vista, the program acknowledges their dedication to providing essential supports and services for these students and their families.

Established to mitigate the challenges of high mobility, the Purple Star Program sets standards for and publicly designates military-friendly schools. Its value lies in recognition and its ability to centralize and disseminate knowledge, build community networks, and assist schools in developing and communicating cultural competency in supporting military-connected families.

Read the MPUSD News Release.

Public Sale of Office Furniture

The County of Monterey is hosting a public sale for office equipment and furniture deemed surplus by the County on Friday, May 10, from 10 AM to 1 PM at 1488 Schilling Place, Salinas.

An array of office essentials, including furniture, chairs, file cabinets, and bookcases, will be available for sale. Please note that all sales are final, and items are sold as is. bring assistance to facilitate the loading of your selected pieces into your vehicle. Download the flyer.

Tuesdays Youth Bowling

The Valley Center Bowl Youth League is offering Tuesday bowling at 5:30 pm for $18 a week through the end of July. Learn more at tyvalleycenterbowling@yahoo.com.

Jacob's Heart Spring Soirée

Jacob's Heart Children's Cancer Support Services invites you to an enriching evening under the stars at Jacob’s Heart's inaugural Spring Soirée on May 18 from 4 to 5 PM, where they will unite to support children with cancer and their families. Learn more at Jacobsheart.org/spring.

Leadership in Civic Engagement High School Summer Internship Program

This summer, the Monterey County Elections Office will hold the inaugural Leadership in Civic Engagement High School Summer Internship Program.

This program aims to equip students with professional training, leadership skills, and a deeper understanding of civic engagement through hands-on experience. Participants will have the opportunity to design their own civic engagement program. Students who successfully complete the program will earn a letter of recommendation, recognition of accomplishment, and the development of leadership skills.

The program satisfies a number of requirements for students to be eligible for the State Seal Civic Engagement (SSCE).

For program information, please visit the Monterey County Elections website.

Should you have any questions or feedback, please contact Monterey County Elections at (831) 796-1499 or email MCE.Outreach@co.monterey.ca.us.

Raising Youth Voices Webinar Series

The Coalition to End Human Trafficking is hosting a May Webinar Series. The first webinar will be held on May 7 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Register at Coalitiontoendhumantrafficking.org. This is a great opportunity to learn how to recognize and prevent human trafficking and ways to support survivors.

Scholarship Opportunity

The California Legislative Central Coast Caucus Foundation (CLCCCF) is thrilled to announce the launch of the Central Coast Impact Scholarship. This initiative aims to support the educational aspirations of students from the five counties of the California Central Coast. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by visiting CLCCCF.org, where additional details about the scholarship criteria and application process are available. Applications are due by 11:59 PM on May 31.

CalKIDS Monthly Webinar Series

CalKIDS invites you to join their monthly webinar series, where they will share valuable insights on the California Kids Investment and Development.

Savings Program (CalKIDS).

Date: Wednesday, May 15

Time: 11:00 am (PST)

Webinar Link: Register here

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