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A publication of Desert Sands Unified School District
April 25, 2016
Crossing The Wire
A Special Act of Kindness
A few years ago,
students, staff, and
families at Lyndon B.
Johnson Elementary
School began a running
club. They focused on
fitness and Coach
William Baker made it
fun. He wore crazy
hats, gave charms for
participation necklaces,
and was out there with
the kids every day.
What he didn’t realize Ryan Milkovics, Lucas Arellano,
is that the club
Coach William Baker
camaraderie and the
example set for
students would result in so much more.
It was a simple assignment,
create a project based on a
book. The John Glenn
Middle School 8th grader
had just read Crossing the
Wire and he found a way to
convey both the story and
the emotions raised from
reading it into a life-size
model of the protagonist.
The book is about a 15
year old boy who makes
the trek from Mexico to the
United States all by
himself. The son of
immigrants, Arturo Sanchez-Porras was moved by the
story and turned it into so much more.
Continued on page 4
Continued on page 16
Sometimes There is an “I” in Team
Six teams came ready for battle. Each team member had read the five books (see page 8).
They knew the answers, they were quick on the buzzer but only one team could win.
And “one” was the operative word as Indio Middle School’s single-member team took
home the prize. At right is Pedro Lezama-Garcia, a sixth grader whose trophy is almost as tall as him.
Learn more about Pedro on page 8.
Participating middle schools included Desert Ridge Academy, Thomas Jefferson, Indio, Palm
Desert Charter, and La Quinta. Photos of the teams can be found on page 8. Judges were La
Quinta High School librarian Jim Duke and Christine Viveros and Roccio Alvarez from Education Services.
Seven DSUSD Schools to Receive Gold Ribbon Awards
Congratulations to James Carter, Amelia Earhart, Gerald Ford,
Benjamin Franklin, Ronald Reagan, Martin Van Buren, and
George Washington Charter elementary schools for being named
California Gold Ribbon Schools. James Madison Elementary
School has been named a 2016 Civic Learning School.
Story on page 15.
1
Principals Named
Additional principal
assignments have been
announced for 2016-2017.
See story on page 16 on
the appointments of Brad
Fisher, Patricia Rice, and
Ann Morales.
May 14: Shadow Hills Golf Tournament. See flyer.
Dates To Note
May 15: Peace Officers Memorial Day
April: Autism Awareness Month, Mathematics
Awareness Month, National Child Abuse Prevention
Month, National Poetry Month, School Library Month
May 15-21: Classified School Employee Week
May 17: Front and Center: IB, 6:30 pm, prior to the
school board meeting.
April: DSUSD IT department offers a variety of
technical training sessions. See flyer.
May 18: PDHS fundraiser, 11:00 am-8:00 pm at Grill-aBurger
April 26: School Bus Drivers Appreciation Day
May 18: Special Education Parent Advisory Committee
Annual Awards Night, DEC North from 6:00-8:00 pm.
See flyer.
April 27: Administrative Professionals Day
April 28: CalRTA #43, Annual Pre-Retirement Resource
Fair at the RCOE in Indio, 2:30-5:00 pm. See flyer.
April 28: Carrillo Ranch Elementary School presents
The Wizard of Oz at 6:00 pm in the MPR.
May 23: Carrillo Ranch Elementary School presents
Spring Visual and Performing Arts Program at 6:00 pm
in the MPR.
April 29: Palm Desert High School bands and color
guard final performance of the year.
May 24: Benjamin Franklin Elementary School 5th
Grade IB Exhibition from 6:00-7:30.
April 29: Blood drive at Indio Middle School. See flyer.
May 26: Sands of Time from 5:30-8:30 at DEC North to
recognized all certificated and classified retirees, services
pin recognition, and employees of the year.
April 30: 2nd Annual John F. Kennedy Elementary
School Fashion Show, 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. See flyer.
May 1: School Principals Day
May 31/June 1: Carrillo Ranch Elementary School 3rd
graders present Summer Camp, The Musical at 1:00 pm
in the MPR.
May 3: Teacher Appreciation Day
May 3: Front & Center: ASES (After School Education
& Safety Program) 6:30 pm, prior to board meeting.
June 2: Red Carpet Awards Ceremony at Carrillo Ranch
Elementary School at 6:00 pm in the MPR.
May 4-8: National Substitute Appreciation Week
June 3: DACSA honors regional administrators of the
year at the Hilton Palm Springs.
May 4: Phase II School Emergency Management
Workshop. See page 20.
June 7: John Adams Elementary School, Legacy in
Learning Celebration, 5:00-7:00 pm. See flyer.
June 10: Last day of school
May 5: Annual La Quinta High School Art Affair
featuring student artwork. Refreshments by culinary arts
academy, 5:30-7:30 pm in the 700 wing. See flyer.
High School Graduations:
June 1: Amistad, 7:00 pm, Fantasy Springs Special
Event Center
May 6: National Nurses Day
May 6: T.R.E.C. (Trustees Reaching Every Community)
to Gerald Ford Elementary School, Colonel Mitchell
Paige Middle School, and preschools. See page 20.
June 1: La Quinta, 7:00 pm, Blackhawk Stadium
May 7: LQHS Spring Social fundraiser. See flyer.
June 2: Indio, 7:00 pm, Ed White Stadium
May 9-13: School Nutrition Employee Week
June 3: Shadow Hills, 7:00 pm, Knight Stadium
May 11: National School Nurse Day
June 4: Palm Desert, 8:00 am, Aztec Stadium
May 11: California Day of the Teacher
June 8: Summit, 4:00 pm; Horizon, 7:00 pm, Palm
Desert High School gym
May 12: DSUSD Health & Fitness Fair. See flyer.
May 13: La Quinta Middle School Health Fair
12:20 am-1:45 pm
The Beacon is published weekly by Desert Sands Unified
School District. Contents are the property of the district and
reprinting or reuse of the material is available by emailing the
public information officer mary.perry@desertsands.us.
May 13/14: James Carter Elementary School presents
7th Annual Carter Cabaret; 6:00 pm both nights and a
1:00 matinee on the 14th.
Publisher: Gary Rutherford, Ed.D.
Editor: Mary Perry
May 14: DSUSD Middle School Math Day at John
Glenn Middle School beginning at 8:30 am.
Copy Editors: Adriana Romero and
Blanche Ramirez
May 14: Shadow Hills H2O TO GO. See flyer.
Photo Editor: Roger Isabell
2
April 11: KESQ and CBS Local 2 commended DSUSD
students for their success at the county-wide science fair
and made note that approximately 30 of the participants
would be showcased at an upcoming Front and Center.
See story on page 14.
In The News
April 22: The Neighbors section of The Desert Sun
included an article on the new DSUSD S.T.E.M.
academies set to open in the 2016-2017 school year.
KMIR also used this topic as a feature including an
interview with Principal Dan Borgen. The story was
picked up by Paper Clips, the Riverside County Office
of Education daily news brief.
April 21: The Desert Sun ran a story on full-day
kindergarten, available at DSUSD schools next school
year. The article included an interview with our own
Mick Wilhite. Paper Clips also ran the story.
April 21: The Desert Sun,
KMIR, and Univision were
all on hand to congratulate
Shadow Hills High School
on winning the CVEP FAFSA
competition. The story was
picked up by Paper Clips.
April 11: KMIR, KESQ, and
CBS Local 2 all featured the
new Buddy Bench at Ronald
Reagan Elementary School.
The story was picked up by
Paper Clips. See story page 18.
(Photo at right is of the stations
interviewing Laurie Pike and
Ezra Pavia.)
April 10: The social section of The Desert Sun included
an article on the scholarships raised by the Garden Club
of the Desert. Speaker at the club’s event was Deborah
Dolan of Palm Desert Charter Middle School.
April 8: KESQ and CBS Local 2 featured a lengthy
piece on the computer coding and robot building that
takes place at Thomas Jefferson Middle School.
April 6: The Desert Sun announced that DSUSD board
member Wendy Jonathan was elected to the CSBA
(state school board assembly). Paper Clips picked up
the story.
April: An extensive article ran in Palm Springs Life on
the assistance provided by La Quinta High School
culinary arts students at the recent Palm Desert Food +
Wine Festival’s James Beard Gourmet Luncheon.
April: Both the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce
publication The Gem and the Palm Desert Area
Chamber of Commerce Business to Business included a
column on the importance of S.T.E.M. education.
S.T.E.M. is the acronym of science, technology,
engineering, and mathematics.
April: KMIR continues to broadcast our first graders
leading the Pledge of Allegiance at 6:00 am each day.
Photo is of Michelle Wark’s class at Martin Van Buren
Elementary School.
(Photo: Principal Marcus Wood,
right, and Assistant Principal Gabe
Fajardo, left, in their simultaneous interviews.) Story on
page 7.
April 18: The Desert Sun featured Madison and Joshua
Risk in their article about the county science fair. Paper
Clips also ran the story. See article on page 14.
April 16: KESQ and CBS Local 2 covered Elementary
School Math Field Day. See story on page 13.
April 15: KMIR, KESQ, CBS
Local 2, and Univision all
covered the rally to support
Autism Awareness Week at
Shadow Hills High School.
(Photo: Jennifer Yanaga of
the school’s special education
department who organized
the event being interviewed.)
April 14: All local media,
including Paper Clips, reported on the naming of
DSUSD schools as Gold Ribbon Schools. A story also
ran in the San Bernardino Sun. See article page 15.
April 14: Coverage by The Desert Sun of an event by
the local chapter of the California Women for
Agriculture included the awarding of scholarships to
five DSUSD students: Dante Calderon of LQHS and
Aleena Duran, Alexander Gallardo, Lilliana Lopez, and
Alexander Paz of IHS. Speaker at the event was Cassie
Bullock a graduate of LQHS and Cal Poly Pomona and
former scholarship recipient.
April 11: The Desert Sun’s coverage of the Tachevah
rock festival included mention of Palm Desert High
School graduate Paul Cotterell of the band Lorialla.
3
with the project. But, then, Clarissa and her son realized
that the Hulk, too, occupied two worlds and was forced
to fight his way through to create his own life.
Crossing the Wire continued from front page
The child of parents who had both entered the United
States via the same route as the novel’s main character,
Arturo sought to convey the emotions he felt after
reading the book with a visual representation of the
hero. Having never before created an art object of this
size or scope, Arturo did what came naturally—he
explained his vision to his family, father Arturo, mother
Clarissa, and brothers Rafhael and Jaime. Together they
worked to bring his dream to reality.
Clarissa, a district paraeducator, is now an American
citizen. She studied and took the citizenship test.
Clarissa is currently in school, herself, and plans to
become a special education teacher. Her husband, now a
legal resident, is a horse groomer and farrier at the Indio
Polo Grounds. Young Arturo long ago decided that he
would become a firefighter. Whatever he decides, he is a
determined and creative young man. A young man with
a clear understanding and appreciation of his past and a
vision for the future.
Arturo credits John Glenn Middle School librarian
Darlene Blake for setting him on the path to enjoying
reading, self-expression, and self-confidence. Darlene
commented that Arturo was once that student who
quietly sat in a corner of the library. No longer true,
Arturo has found his place in school and knows that he
will do so in the future.
The sculpture includes a sign about Arturo’s
reasons for creating the piece. The text is in both
English and Spanish.
Teacher Kendra Bennett and Blake were amazed at the
“stick figure” boy and decided to exhibit the sculpture in
the school library. The art work has since been relocated
to the District Education Center where it can be viewed
in the lobby.
Crossing the Wire, a book by Will Hobbs, is about a 14
year old boy named Victor Flores, who made the
crossing from Mexico to the United States to help
support his family. He had a lot of adventures with
people he met along the way. My favorite part was
when a priest gave him money to be able to make the
crossing. The priest had faith in Victor. This book
grabbed my attention because both of my parents and
their families are immigrants from Mexico. I was
inspired to make a life size model of Victor Flores, the
protagonist in the story, because I was able to relate his
story to the history and stories I heard my own parents
and family talk about. When my dad started helping
me construct Victor, I would tell him more and more
about the book and about all the different obstacles and
challenges that Victor had to overcome. My dad would
tell me about how accurate the story was to his real life
border crossing experience and the fears he had of
living in the states. He told me about his friends and
family that made the crossing with him and about the
people he met along the way. He would talk about the
way he felt whenever he saw the “Perrera” (Border
Patrol vehicle) and how fearful he was of getting
picked up at the next turn. He also told me about how
sad he was leaving his family because he knew he
would no longer be able to see them. The more he told
me of his stories, the prouder I was of him for
overcoming the obstacles and fears and loneliness that
he, and Victor, had to endure. My dad’s stories made
the connection I felt with Victor, a kid my own age,
even stronger. So I did this project with care because
I saw in Victor my dad’s life story and others who
have made the same journey in search of the
American dream.
Created in two weekends, the frame of the boy is wood.
The sculpture was then clothed by the family. The
backpack was “borrowed” from one brother, the hat was
included as typical of what Victor Flores, the book’s
hero, might have worn. The face...well that’s another
story. Originally, Arturo had convinced his brothers to
let him use one of them as a plaster of Paris model using
straws in nasal cavities for breathing. Mother Clarissa
wasn’t too fond of the idea. She and the boys visited a
local party store and came up with the idea of the Hulk
mask. At first it was just a mask that fit and would work
4
McCallum Theatre Celebrates Partnering
School Coordinators
(Reprinted from the McCallum Theatre’s publications.)
A reception was recently held in conjunction with Open
Call in The Gerald R. Ford Founders Room at the
McCallum Theatre to honor this year’s McCallum
Theatre Institute School Coordinators.
The McCallum Theatre Institute has partnered with 27
schools this year, undertaking in-depth units of study in
theatre, dance, music, and visual arts in the Palm
Springs, Desert Sands, and Coachella Valley Unified
school districts. This was made possible through the
outstanding support the Institute has come to expect
from teachers who volunteer to act as coordinators at
their schools. These teachers provide an invaluable
service in the organization of their schools’
participation. Since 1998, the Aesthetic Education
Program has provided professional development for
teachers and unique opportunities for students to
experience and explore the arts through an inquirydriven curriculum centered around live performances
and exhibitions of artistic works in dance, theatre,
music, and visual arts.
In addition to the reception and presentation of
certificates, school coordinators, principals, and their
guests were treated to the opening night performance of
Open Call. Desert Sands students and staff made up or
were part of seven of the 22 acts. (See the March 21
edition of The Beacon, page 5, at
http://dsusd.us/sites/default/files/3.21.16.pdf for more
information.) While there were no DSUSD winners this
year, you can read more about our talented performers at
http://www.mccallumtheatre.com/download.php/educati
on/open-call/downloads/finalists
DSUSD elementary school Partnering School
Coordinators recognized were:

Deanna De La Cruz, John Adams

Trice Healy, Benjamin Franklin

Pam LaPointe, James Madison

Cheryl Powers, James Earl Carter

Dina Possidon, Abraham Lincoln

David Ritland, Amelia Earhart

Sarah Williams, Ronald Reagan

LuAnn Rose, Washington Charter
5
then program into your account to register your
computer. It's your choice to have this happen each time
you log-in or every thirty-days. Most people use “every
30- days." A similar process is available there to set up
your cell phone for the special code.
Tech Advice
By Chuck King, manager, computer network services
Let’s Do the “Two-Step”
People dance for
enjoyment,
expression,
exercise. There are
many styles and
types: “The Twist”,
“The Tango”, “The
Foxtrot”, and, of
course, the “Texas
Two Step”. All
good for Saturday night at the dance-club. But there is a
“Two-Step” that we should use with our Google
Email—to protect valued accounts and information.
Now only your device (computer, phone, tablet) can be
used to access your accounts. It’s all built-in right there
into your Google account. It’s an extra STEP and it's
meant to prevent unauthorized access to your
information.
Maybe it is a bit like a dance...doing the “Two-Step”.
But, once this is setup, these are two steps that will
protect your account and data.
AVID Certification
Congratulations to three
of our AVID schools for
their collaborative
presentations to DSUSD
Board of Education
President Mike Duran,
board member Gary
Tomak, Superintendent
Gary Rutherford, Ed.D.,
staff, and colleagues. The event took
place at Indio High School were AVID
coordinators and teachers from IHS,
Indio Middle School, and Thomas
Jefferson Middle School presented
information and statistics on their
programs. It was part of the schools’
Certified Self Study for RIMS AVID.
Security experts tell us that to be fully secure when
logging in, we need three things:
1. Something you ARE
2. Something you KNOW
3. Something you HAVE
For many, the first two are well-known, you ARE your
“first-name.last-name” of your account. You KNOW
your personal password. But what do you HAVE that
will ensure that your login is secure. You HAVE a cell
phone or a desk phone.
Google provides for a “two-step” verification process
that can send a code via text message to your cell phone
(or send a voice rendition of the same to any phone) to
allow you to register the device you use to login. It
works for computers and it works for smart-phones. The
idea is that someone could have your username and
password but, without your special phone-delivered
code for your device, they will not be able to login to
your account. And this is all in your hands.
Ragnar Relay
Most teachers think of spring break as
a time to put their feet up, catch their
breath, and prepare for the final
months of school. A group of nine
teachers from Shadow Hills High
School don’t agree. Along with a student from La
Quinta High School (Brandon Meadows) and one from
Shadow Hills High School (Abraham Rodriguez), and
Coach Brent Conley, team members were: Jacqueline
Ortiz, Meredith Zengler, Farah Meadows, Laura Lund,
Robert Brock, Robert Rojo, Jennifer Conley, Pamela
Alles, and Julie Mathews.
When in your Google email account, click on your
profile picture in the upper right hand of the Chrome
Browser. Select the “My Account” blue button. And
from there you will see in the first pane to “sign in and
security”. Then take the link “Signing in to Google.” It
is there you will see the prompts for setting up “twostep authentication”.
The technology department has prepared an instruction
for these steps. It can be found at the following link:
https://goo.gl/eIt10G
The race was a 200-mile relay from Huntington Beach
to San Diego. The team is especially proud of
completing their run in under 36 hours, their estimated
race time. For more information on the Ragnar Relay
and a list of their supported charities, visit
www.runragnar.com.
Two-step verification injects the presence of your
cellphone or desk phone into the process. You provide a
phone number and then choose the type of message you
want—either cell-phone text message (SMS) or a voice
message. The message provides a numeric code that you
6
PDCMS Names
Employees of the Year
Congratulations to staff
members at Palm Desert Charter
Middle School for being named
employees of the year. Left to
right are Willard Lacro, band
director, Jeanne Jarden, art
teacher, and Eddy Rivera,
security agent.
Shadow Hills Wins FAFSA Competition
Leaders of the Coachella Valley Regional Plan for
College and Career Success recently revealed the
winners of its sixth annual Battle of the High Schools
FAFSA Completion. FAFSA (Free Application for
Federal Student Aid) is distributed by the United States
Department of Education, the largest provider of student
financial aid in the nation.
Leadership Coachella Valley Served by
LQHS Culinary Students
High schools in the Coachella Valley work with their
seniors to see which has submitted the highest
percentage of applications. This year’s winner was
Shadow Hills High School with a completion rate of
79%. A check for $4,000 was awarded to the school
along with the FAFSA Cup. A school assembly for
seniors was held for the presentation.
Speakers included Sheila Thornton, vice president,
Workforce Excellence, a CVEP partner (Coachella
Valley Economic Partnership), and CVEP Workforce
Excellence Committee co-chair, Tom Davis, Chief
Planning and Development Officer at Agua Caliente
Band of Cahuilla Indians. Also speaking at the event
were DSUSD Superintendent Gary Rutherford, Ed.D.
(committee co-chair with Davis), Principal Marcus
Wood, Ed.D., and Assistant Principal Gabriel Fajardo.
Students addressing the group were Yesenia Lopez,
Maddie Morgan, and Kailee Wingrove.
Leadership Coachella Valley is a program designed to
identify, motivate, and develop future community
leaders. The program encourages community
involvement by providing knowledge and perspective on
valley-wide needs and concerns. Participants meet
current community leaders in forum and group
discussion settings. Currently participating in the
program is La Quinta High School Assistant Principal
Sean Webb who invited the group to hold a recent
meeting at the school, including lunch prepared and
served by the students. (Below, instructor Sheri Tucker and
The following day, at Indio High School, a second
award ceremony was held with cash prizes awarded to
second and third place winning schools.
Chef Mary Trimmons take a moment to greet their guests.)
Left to right, Wood, Fajardo, Morgan, Davis, Wingrove, Lopez,
Rutherford, Thornton
7
Meet Pedro
Battle of the Books—Middle School Style
(Special thanks to Susan Bonjorno for writing this article.)
To compete in the 2016 Middle School Battle of the
Books, students read the five books pictured below.
Pedro Lezama sat alone at his
table in the DSUSD
boardroom, the site for the
middle-school Battle of the
Books. Other teams piled in,
and their tables overflowed
with colorful, chattering team
members. Pedro’s team had
begun with a sizeable group,
but they slowly dropped out
to other activities, leaving
only Pedro to bring the
trophy back home to Indio
Middle School.
Other attendees looked at the small boy with the bright
eyes, all alone at his table. He accepted the curious looks
with remarkable aplomb for an eleven year old 6th
grader. The other teams offered to share players, so he
would not be alone. “No thanks,” Pedro said, “I want to
do this.”
Mick Wilhite, in charge of the competition, sat with
Pedro prior to the competition and commended him on
his courage, again offering team mates from other
schools. (Participating middle schools were: Indio, Palm
Desert Charter, La Quinta, Jefferson, Glenn, and Ridge.)
“I can do it,” Pedro stated. No bravado, just quiet
confidence. An “A” student, he wants to attend UCLA
to study medicine. He loves to read, play video games,
and spend time with his dad, who is his inspiration. But
Pedro himself is an inspiration to everyone.
The competition began with the individual round, where
each player was asked a question, and given 10 seconds
to answer, for a total of 12 questions per team. Pedro got
some and missed others, and looked downcast. Little did
anyone suspect that he was just warming up. When the
lightning round began, Pedro began to really come alive.
As Della Abril read question after question, Pedro grew
ever more confident. He buzzed in on almost every
question, and got the majority correct. His fans and
family clapped furiously at every right answer and, at the
end, everyone waited anxiously for the results.
When the winner was announced, the applause was
thunderous. The other middle school teams were
gracious, as were the coaches. Pedro’s fans and family
openly wept, and copious photos were snapped. Becky
Hudson, assistant principal of Indio Middle, took a video
of the winning moment in all its noisy glory. Trophy in
hand, our hero was photographed over and over, until he
was dragged away to eat celebratory ice cream. A good
time was had by all.
8
Student of the Week
Univision often features the successes of desert schools and students on their station. Each year, they conduct
interviews for their Student of the Week feature. This year, April is the DSUSD month. So far they have featured two
of our students with two more scheduled.
Xcaret Jimenz Valenzuula, 12th grader at Amistad High School, was born in Mexicali.
One of eight children, she will be among the first of her generation to graduate from high
school. Xcaret is recognized by her teachers and administrators, as well as her peers, for
both her academics and her involvement in school activities. Her counselor noted, “She is
on a path to success and her troubled past is just that, the past. This young lady is one of
our best and she shines among our students.” Xcaret plans to major in criminal justice.
Gilberto Alvarez-Bernal is an 11th grader at Shadow Hills
High School. He has been on honor roll twice, passed the
CAHSEE his first year at SHHS and was reclassified within a
year of returning to the United States from Mexico. Last year
he took Spanish III Honors and this year he is in AP Spanish. Born in the United States,
Gilberto left at 10 years old to live in Sinaloa for five years, returning his sophomore
year. Respected by the school staff and student body, he plans to become a dentist.
Alba Villagrana is an 11th grader at Palm Desert High School. She is described by her
teachers as bright, motivated, responsible, high achiever, mature, hardworking, and a role
model. Alba has not only excelled academically but she has contributed greatly to her school and community. She is a
member of the swim team, volunteers at Martha’s Kitchen, is on Link Crew (mentoring program for incoming
freshmen), and is an AP (advanced placement) Scholar with honors. Alba plans on majoring in bio chemistry. In her
words, “I would like to work in the medical field either as a doctor or conducting research. My interest in this career
developed through reading and learning about many people who suffer diseases that should no longer be present.”
Her interview is scheduled for April 27.
Elizabeth Gonzales, a 12th grader at Horizon School, has a mantra. She says that for life to have a direction, goals are
essential. She uses the words of a first-century Roman philosopher who said “when a man does not know what harbor
he is making for, no wind is the right wind.” Elizabeth attended traditional public school until the 7th grade. She
found that the distractions of public school were not for her. In addition to English and Spanish, she speaks Korean
and Russian, plays the piano and guitar, and volunteers full time in a bible education program. She plans on traveling
to Ecuador after graduation. When she returns, Elizabeth plans on continuing what she loves to do, teach the Bible,
play instruments, and learn languages. She plans on taking courses in communication studies with the goal of
becoming a translator or interpreter. More importantly, she hopes to have a positive impact on people’s lives as she
continue to live life with a purpose. Elizabeth’s interview is scheduled for May 4.
Then and Now
Students and volunteers at James Carter Elementary are working hard in preparation for the 7th Annual Carter
Cabaret. Performances are scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on May 13, and 1:00 and 6:00 p.m. on May 14.
The theme for the 2016 Cabaret is Billboard Charts: Then and Now. Each class will perform a song that was on the
charts during a specific decade, as well as a current (2010-present) charttopping song. The entire group will also perform an opening and closing
number.
The production will mark the end of a year of planning and nearly four
months of weekly rehearsals.
The performance is part of the Keeping the Art in cARTer program created
four years ago to further the students' exposure to the performing arts.
Twice a year, guest artists donate their time to perform at assemblies for the
entire student body. Photo is of students interacting with the Hartin Dance Company.
9
From La Quinta to Chicago
Congressional Art Competition
Performing
their
selections for
their Chicago
Symphony
Hall concert,
the La Quinta
High School
Wind
Orchestra
was a hit at
the Civic
Center Park in April.
From the Office of Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D.
Thank you for encouraging
your students to participate
in the 2016 Congressional
Art Competition. We
received over 50
submissions from high
schools from all over
California’s 36th
Congressional District!
And while we’ve
communicated next steps
to students, we would appreciate your assistance in
communicating to your students the following steps in
this exciting competition.
Blackhawk Brigade
The 15th Annual Brigade Blast was held on April 8. In
addition to performances by the La Quinta High School
Blackhawk Brigade Band & Color Guard, guest
performers included Indio, Palm Desert, and Shadow
Hills high schools and Colonel Mitchell Paige and Palm
Desert Charter middle schools, as well as visiting
musicians from Desert Mirage, Desert Hot Springs, and
Cathedral City high schools and Xavier Preparatory
School. As LQHS music director Michael Fleischmann
wrote in the program, “Students who participate in the
band program not only learn skills that they can use for
the rest of their lives but they become more connected to
each other in a social environment that is both positive
and educational.”
• A panel of judges will come together to select the
winners in this competition.
• All student artists, parents, teachers, and members of
the community are invited to attend.
• All students who entered the competition will receive
a special Certificate of Congressional Recognition from
Congressman Ruiz at the Artwork Showcase.
Congressman Ruiz’s Artwork Showcase on Wednesday,
May 4, 2016, 5:00-7:00 pm, at College of the Desert’s
Marks Art Center located at 43500 Monterey Avenue in
Palm Desert. The winner of this year’s Congressional
Art Competition will be announced by Congressman
Ruiz at this event. Light refreshments and snacks will be
served, and all are welcomed to attend.
We hope that you and your students, including their
families, will be able to attend. For more information
call 760-424-8888.
My Favorite Landmark
Winners of the City of Palm
Desert’s 31st Annual Student
Art and Essay Contest were
recently announced.
Above: La Quinta High School Jazz Band
Top award, the Mayor’s
Award, will be presented to
Patricia Dan, a 10th grade
honor student at Palm Desert
High School, on May 11 in
Council Chambers. A
student of Gary Wise, she joins six other winners from
his class who wrote about their favorite landmark.
Below: Colonel Mitchell Paige Middle School Jazz Band
Junior class winners are Camille Hauswirth, 1st place,
Jasmine Martinez, 2nd place, Juan Noquez, 3rd place.
Sophomore honorees are Joshua Phillips, Ryan
Cieslikowski, and Emon Shaaf.
10
Daily Dose of Caffeine
Desert Ridge prepares for CAASPP with
Battle of the Sexes
Teachers and staff at
John Glenn Middle
School start their day off
with fresh brewed
coffee...delivered to
them in their classroom.
Ryan Seymore, teacher
at the school, and his
students began the
service. Baristas are his
very special students.
There seems to
be some
controversy over
who won the
competition.
But, whoever
won, it was a
wildly fun day
for both students
and faculty and a
great way to
prepare for
upcoming
testing.
Deaf Awareness Day
Bringing attention to
Deaf Awareness Day
is John Preston,
teacher at Gerald
Ford Elementary
School, and his
students. Ford is the
only elementary
school in the desert to
offer this program.
Healthcare Careers
CVEP (Coachella Valley
Economic Partnership) has
information for students
interested in healthcare careers:
May 7: The fourth annual Emerging Health
Professionals Career Showcase will be held on May 7,
from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, at UCR Palm Desert. The
event will expose students to different health
professions—including physical therapy, nursing,
radiology, medicine, and mental health—and provide
information about their respective educational pathways.
The event, produced by CVEP's student-led Emerging
Health Professionals, is the only health conference for
high school students in the area. EHP's goal is to build a
diversified healthcare pipeline that meets the needs of
the community by building successful student leaders.
Information: 760-340-1575.
Campus Tours
Students from Palm Desert High School take the motto
“College Bound” very seriously. Lynette Wohlmuth,
who represents the school’s career and college center,
makes certain that they have many opportunities to visit
potential universities. Below, students take group photos
at Cal State University San Bernardino and University
of California Riverside.
Did You Know: By 2020, there will be a 15% increase
in the number of healthcare jobs in the Coachella Valley
(compared to a 10% increase nationally). The region
needs your help to educate local students to provide this
future workforce. Check out the video at:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FN_l4RK6N0w
Future Physician Leaders Program: A seven-week
mentorship program for students interested in becoming
physicians and healthcare leaders in underserved
communities is being hosted by the UCR School of
Medicine. Last day to register is April 18. High school
juniors and seniors and college undergraduates and postgraduates can participate June 20-August 6 program. For
more information call 951-827-6090.
11
Washington Heading to World Finals
Youth Court
Over 800 teams from around the world will compete in
the 37th Odyssey of the Mind World Finals being held in
May at Iowa State University and two teams of students
from George Washington Charter Elementary School
will be joining them. The 14 team members and their
four coaches will participate in the event that encourages
creativity and teamwork and is considered the premier
international problem-solving competition. Students and
their school support system are currently fund-raising to
cover the costs of travel to the event. Anyone wanting to
help out should call the school.
Desert Sands Unified School
District has been a part of the
Youth Court program for
over three years. The district
works with the Riverside
County Sheriff’s
Department, Indio Police
Department, District
Attorney’s Office, and Riverside County Courthouse to
conduct Youth Court for truant students and those with
low level infractions such as petty theft, fights, and first
time drug possession. Youth Court is considered to be a
form of “restorative justice” and is highly recognized
nationally as a great resource for at risk youth. The
DSUSD Youth Court program currently serves many of
our comprehensive high schools and middle schools. It
is anticipated that all comprehensive secondary schools
will participate beginning in the 2016-2017 school year.
The program is set in motion when a student is referred
through collaboration with school site administrators,
school resource officers, and Deputy District Attorney
Mike Hestrin. Students from the school sites serve as the
prosecuting attorney, the defense attorney, and as the
jury. Members of the jury are generally comprised of
students who are serving community service as a
consequence of having gone through the Youth Court
process as offenders. Community service is one of the
more common consequences for a student who has
committed a low level offense. Other types of
consequences include letters of apology, Saturday
School, and other forms of volunteer work. The students
have three months to complete their requirements and
then go back to Youth Court to provide updates. If the
student has completed all requirements, the judge drops
the charges and the case is closed. School officials may
be in attendance at court and can testify on the student
progress. There are currently approximately 20 students
participating in the program.
Photos include team members
Calle Berg, Tayla Berg,
Bennett Creighton, Drew
Durrett (not in photos), Imani
Nur, Javrie Seneres, Cameron
Trubee, Gaia Calderin, Alyssa
Maerean, Sophia Perez,
Jolynn Huang, Carter
Kirchhevel, Brian Both,
Mckenna Vein with Dr. Sam
Micklus, founder of Odyssey
of the Mind.
Trike-A-Thon
The preschoolers in Mercy Alvarez’s class recently held
a school fundraiser, riding their tricycles and other
“vehicle”. Prior to the event members of the La Quinta
Police Department stopped by with helmets for the
children and some safety information.
Court is held at the Justice Larson Center with the
Honorable Judges Hawkins and Villalobos presiding.
Court runs from 6:00 to 8:00 pm and are held December
through May. There are usually one or two sessions each
month depending on court availability.
Going through the program is in lieu of going to actual
court and having the offense listed on student records
while avoiding any possible fines. Students must admit
their guilt prior to participating in the program. The
judge listens to the jury’s recommendation but does
have the ability to add to or reduce the consequences as
deemed necessary. It the student does not complete the
program as required, he or she may be referred to the
regular court process.
12
Mathletics
The stands in the Shadow Hills High
School gym were awash with color as
students from 14 DSUSD elementary
schools took their places. Each school
group wore matching shirts in their
school colors proclaiming themselves as
the best in mathematics.
Coordinated by
Tammy CarleyBarrow (pictured
above with Chris
Viveros) and the
ever capable
education services
team, the event was
a fun-filled, action-packed, academically challenged
morning. Special thanks to photographers Joe Barrow
and Gary Tomak (pictured above along with
Superintendent Gary Rutherford and fellow board
member Wendy Jonathan) for capturing the action.
Orienteering
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
4th place
Franklin
Earhart
Lincoln
Ford
Puzzles
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
4th place
Lincoln
Earhart
Carreon
Monroe
Cooperative Logic
1st place
Carter
2nd place
Van Buren
3rd place
Franklin
4th place
Ford
Hex
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
4th place
Earhart
Earhart
Earhart
Lincoln
Danger Zone
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
4th place
Van Buren
Ford
Earhart
Carter
Competition elements and the winners included:
Relay
1st place
Lincoln
2nd place
Van Buren
3rd place
Ford A
4th place
Ford B
5 in a Row
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
4th place
Lincoln
Monroe
Franklin
Franklin
Quick Draw
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
4th place
Monroe
Eisenhower
Ford
Johnson
Art
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
4th place
Capture
1st place
2nd place
3rd place
4th place
Carter
Carter
Lincoln
Ford
Participating elementary schools were:
Dr. Carreon Academy
James Carter
Amelia Earhart
Dwight Eisenhower
Gerald Ford
Benjamin Franklin
Herbert Hoover
Andrew Jackson
Lyndon Johnson
Abraham Lincoln
James Madison
James Monroe
Ronald Reagan
Martin Van Buren
Earhart
Ford
Franklin
Madison
13
Front and Center is a
program that allows
DSUSD students to
showcase their work
with the board of
education. Shown with
students are (from top
to bottom) Don
Griffith, Matt Monica,
Gary Tomak and Mike
Duran, and Wendy
Jonathan with Gold
Award recipients
Michael and
Bernadette Flicker with
their parents, Principal
Mark Baldwin, and
teacher Jeannine
Nielsen.
County Science Fair & Front and Center
DSUSD sent 30 science fair projects to compete in the
2016 Riverside, Inyo, Mono, San Bernardino (RIMS)
Inland Science and Engineering Fair in Riverside.
Receiving gold medals were Maxwell Rizzo and
Michael Flicker, along with sister Bernadette Flicker,
from Ronald Reagan Elementary School, Benjamin
Hecht from Washington Charger Elementary School,
Joshua Risk from Desert Ridge Academy, and
Madison Risk from Shadow Hills High School.
Joshua Risk’s project was scored among the top 10% in
the county of all middle school projects and has been
selected as a Broadcom Masters Finalist. All Broadcom
Masters nominees are eligible to complete an online
application in order to compete in the state level and
become a national semifinalist or one of 20 finalists
named to compete for a top award of $25,000.
The DSUSD representatives also brought their
presentation boards and materials to the April 12 board
meeting at Front and Center: Science Fair.
Award recipients at the county level are:
Silver Award Winners
Julianna Lynn, Amelia Earhart Elementary School
Jacob Lind, Ronald Reagan Elementary School
Zoe Reber, Washington Charter School
Audrey Lennon, James Monroe Elementary School
Carter Kirchevel, Washington Charter School
Elijah Encinitas, Ronald Reagan Elementary School
Ivanna Uriarte, Thomas Jefferson Middle School
Below, the science fair
participants at Front
and Center are
commended by the
DSUSD Board of
Education prior to
leading those present
in The Pledge of
Allegiance.
Bronze Award Winners
Peyton Quezada, Ronald Reagan Elementary School
Josue Gudino, Benjamin Franklin Elementary School
Top, far
left:
Joshua
Risk; left:
Benjamin
Hecht;
bottom,
far left,
Max
Rizzo;
below,
Madison
Risk
14
Reaching the Summit
State Schools Chief Tom Torlakson
Announces 2016 California Gold
Ribbon Schools Award
Students from
Summit High
School recently
appeared before the
DSUSD School
Board to provide an
update on the
school and their
accomplishments.
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom
Torlakson has announced that 758 elementary schools
are being honored under the Gold Ribbon Schools
Awards Program, temporarily taking the place of the
California Distinguished Schools Program.
“These schools shine as bright beacons for others,
putting forth an exemplary effort to ensure that every
student is ready for 21st century college and careers,” he
said. “California teachers are developing an education
model for the nation, training today’s students to be the
problem-solvers, inventors, and pioneers of tomorrow.”
Principal Rudy
Wilson wrote the
following to his
staff the day after
the meeting:
The California Gold Ribbon Schools Award was created
to honor schools in place of the California Distinguished
Schools Program, on hiatus while California creates new
assessment and accountability systems. Nearly 6,000
elementary schools were eligible to apply this year.
You should all be very proud of the students who
participated in the Summit ASB presentation to the
board on April 12, 2016. They simply were amazing.
Four students shared information about the school
(AYP, CAASPP, graduation, LMS, etc.). In addition,
they shared their personal experiences. The four
students who shared were Alyssa Diaz, Allyson Picasso,
Sabrina Chapa and America Henriquez (pictured above).
Maria Dominguez was our alternate. She was there in
support. Tatiana Tomlinson, Austin Daukas, and
Victoria Ghajarieh were all featured in the video
presentation. They were great representatives of our
school and their respective families. Mr. Dougherty and
Mr. Chavez were gracious enough to participate in the
video. I want to thank them for their constant dedication
and commitment to our school. Mr. Emmer and Mr.
Fischer were instrumental in gathering material for the
video. Thank you! Mr. Jackson, as usual, worked hard
to get the students ready for the presentation.
Schools applied for the award based on a model program
their school has adopted that includes standards-based
activities, projects, strategies, and practices that can be
replicated by other local educational agencies. The
award recognized middle and high schools in 2015.
The Gold Ribbon awards recognize California schools
that have made gains in implementing the academic
content and performance standards adopted by the State
Board of Education. These include the California
Standards for English Language Arts and Mathematics,
California English Language Development Standards,
and Next Generation Science Standards.
The 2016 schools as well as the 2016 Exemplary
Program recipients, Title I Academic Achieving
Schools, 2015 Green Ribbon Schools, 2015 Civic
Learning Award Schools, and the National Blue Ribbon
Honorees from 2015, will be recognized later this month
during regional ceremonies held in Santa Clara,
Anaheim, Los Angeles, Visalia, and Sacramento.
There are a few
takeaways. One, this is a
good professional
learning environment for
both students and staff.
Let’s take care of what
we have and continue to
grow it. Second, let’s
find as many
opportunities to prepare
these students for
DSUSD board members Gary
success
and celebrate
Tomak and Wendy Jonathan flank
them when they get
Summit student board member
Andrea Valle.
there. One day at a time,
we (collectively) are
redefining what is possible at Summit High School.
I am convinced all of you will leave a great legacy to
follow. I am proud to be associated with Summit High
School.
For more information, visit the California Gold Ribbon
Schools Program on the California Department of
Education’s Web site. The CDE California School
Recognition Program is presented by San Mateo-based
California Casualty. The California Department of
Education is a state agency led by State Superintendent
of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson. For more
information, please visit the California Department of
Education’s Web site or by mobile device. You may
also follow Superintendent Torlakson
on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube.
15
Continued from page 1
LBJ Cares
Working with Principal Barry Stockhamer, Ed.D., and
the amazing nutrition services team, students learned
about healthy eating and what it takes to be healthy—
body, mind, and soul.
The We Care program
has begun at Lyndon
B. Johnson
Elementary School.
Each student
maintains a log of
random acts of
kindness. Completing
the first kind act
brings a blue bracelet.
Ten thoughtful and
caring gestures allows students to wear the red bracelet.
According to Principal Barry Stockhamer, Ed.D., “This
is born out of a desire to move ‘words’ to ‘deeds’ and
‘slogans’ to ‘actions’ and to the long term development
of a mindset for civic responsibility and helping others.”
To celebrate this year’s success, Epic Harvest, a DSUSD
vendor, donated a bicycle to the student who ran the most
miles. Winner was Ryan Milkovics, a second grader who
ran over 70 miles this year. He was tied with 5th grader
Lucas Arellano, last year’s winner. Because Lucas won
the bicycle last year, he received a Nike Fit Bit. What
comes next is extraordinary. To celebrate the students
who participated in the program, an assembly took place
to make note of the over 4,000 miles run at the school
this year. The bicycle was presented to Ryan. He asked
for the microphone and thanked the 575 students in the
room and then donated the bicycle to raise funds for the
school. LBJ Elementary School has rolled out the We
Care Campaign that asks students to perform random
acts of kindness, reach out to others, and spread the word.
Principals Announced
Brad Fisher has been named principal of Desert Ridge
Academy. Ann Morales will become principal at
Amelia Earhart Elementary School. Patricia Rice will
be the principal at John F. Kennedy Elementary School.
What a way to begin.
LQHS Culinary at PD Food and Wine
Currently principal at Amelia Earhart Elementary
School, Brad Fisher has over 20 of experience in
administration, teaching, and coaching. Since 2009, he
has brought numerous honors to Earhart including
BEST & CBEE awards, state and national IB student
and teacher honors, and, most recently, was selected as a
2016 CA Gold Ribbon School. Brad served as
attendance facilitator and assistant principal at La
Quinta High School.
For the third year in a row, La Quinta High School
culinary arts students were invited to assist at the James
Beard Gourmet Luncheon, a signature event at the Palm
Desert Food and Wine Festival.
The four course meal for 300 people was plated by the
students. It was curated by four of the top celebrity chefs
in the industry, Cat Cora, Gale Gand, Suzanne Tracht,
and Valerie Gordon. Attending, and serving as The
Beacon’s photographer, was board member Gary Tomak.
Ann Morales began her career in 1987, arriving in
DSUSD in 1990 where she successfully served in
classroom and project teaching assignments at Dwight
Eisenhower, James Madison, James Carter, and James
Monroe elementary schools. As a grant facilitator at the
district office, Ann was instrumental in the magnet
school application used to fund and expand the IB
Programme in DSUSD—creating the first K-12
implementation of IB in the U.S. She has served with
distinction as principal of JFK Elementary since 2009.
Chef Cat Cora with LQHS
student Jessica Rodriguez.
John F. Kennedy Elementary Principal Patricia Rice
began her career as a bilingual teacher in 1993. She
served as a site literacy coach and mentor teacher before
becoming a district project facilitator. She has served as
assistant principal and interim principal at JFK, before
reporting to Adams Elementary as principal in 2003. A
CA Distinguished School, Adams is on the County’s
“Schools to Note” list due to the high performance of
5th grade students in ELA and math in 2015.
Chef Valerie Gordon with
LQHS student Karen
Condon
16
Against the Wall
Best Foot Forward
Students at Dr. Carreon Academy and Theodore
Roosevelt Elementary School found some unique ways
to use duct tape. Dr. Carreon Principal Regina Heredia
agreed to be taped to the wall by students completing
their reading goals. At Roosevelt, Dan Martinez’s
students used the opportunity to raise money for the
school. The Student Council raised over $440 dollars
taping him to the wall. (Rumor has it that there was
some teacher assistance!)
Palm Desert High School student artists participated in a
Vans Custom Culture contest. High school art students
from around the world designed some amazing Vans
sneakers. Students anxiously waiting for results. In the
meantime, here are some of their incredible designs.
SHHS H2O GO
The Shadow Hills High
School Business Today
Club is putting on The
H2O GO, a 6k water run
with interactive activities
at every mile marker that
are, in some ways, related
to water. Following the
race there will be an afterparty held on the football
field with food vendors,
music, and fun activities. For more information go
to https://goo.gl/0gvWDnl. The event will be held on
Saturday, May 14, from 7:00 am to noon at Shadow
Hills High School and is a fundraising event.
Students in the club created a business named
ALFA (A Legacy for All) that creates logoed
apparel. They work with the printing company
operated by Desert Arc. Profits from the company
are to be used toward scholarships. CVEP
(Coachella Valley Economic Partnership) has
agreed to match the profits for this year.
But every business needs operating capital and this
fundraiser will provide the students with the cash
needed to keep the business operating. See the flyer
on page 23.
17
Buddy Bench Creates New Friends
There is a place at Ronald
Reagan Elementary
School that will help to
eliminate loneliness and
foster friendship on the
playground. The Buddy
Bench program first came
to public attention in 2013
when a student in
Pennsylvania was facing a
move to Germany. While
doing an email search on
his new school he found a
special bench on the
playground. He found out
more information and brought the concept to his school
and to the school board. The concept is simple but
amazing. A bench is brought to the playground and
students are provided information about its purpose. It is
meant to be a place where lonely students or children at
a sad time in their lives can go to be comforted by their
peers. It has been gaining national momentum and the
Ronald Reagan Elementary School Student Council
raised money for their own Buddy Bench. The
installation and dedication was extensively covered in
local media. (Photo: Principal Mark Baldwin, Student Council
Pre-School
Corner
Our littlest students
have been very busy
over the last several
weeks. In Mrs.
Alvarez’s class they
focused on manners
and how to be polite
guests at a dinner
party. As Elijah said,
“This is cool!”
Ms. Perez worked on numbers
and letters and science and art.
Students collected water from
the rain and learned about the
drought. They also painted a
group mural.
Elephants could be found in Ms.
Lee’s class as the students made
some beautiful pachyderm
masks then learned a counting
song about the animals.
Advisor Laurie Pike, DSUSD School Board members Wendy
Jonathan and Gary Tomak, stand behind Student Council President
Ezra Pavia)
DSUSD Winter Sports
Although The Beacon does not usually include sports
coverage but the editor couldn’t pass up the opportunity
to recognize The Desert Sun’s recently announced
“winter athletes of 2015-2016”. Congratulations to these
DSUSD high school students:
A Picture is Worth…
There is new artwork in the halls of the district
education center. Stop by and see the photographs from
La Quinta High School students.
Anthony Mantanona, Palm Desert, top wrestler
Elise Stein, Palm Desert, girls water polo player
Jazmyne Santiel, Indio, girls basketball player
In addition to the student’s above, The Desert Sun
published as special sports section on this year’s high
school “sports heroes” including:
Morgan Dewyer, Palm Desert, volleyball
Jiyoon Jang, Palm Desert, girls golf
Ryan Sawyer, Palm Desert, boys water polo
Luis Barrera, Indio, boys cross country
Marissa Rodriguez, La Quinta, girls cross country
Koty Burton, La Quinta, boys track and field
Nate Lopez, Palm Desert, baseball
Alyssa Velasquez, Palm Desert, softball
Christian Kontaxis, Palm Desert, boys tennis
Hailey Murdica, Palm Desert, girls track and field
18
Holding Court
By Beth Bohn, Palm Desert Charter Middle School
In March, Palm Desert Charter
Middle School held its 14th
annual Inn of Court education
outreach program. This year,
68 eight grade student
applicants were selected to
participate. The program
welcomed Ambassador
William Timken, the former
United States Ambassador to
Germany, as well as a team of
judges and attorneys from the
Desert Bar Association. Teachers Beth Bohn and Kristin
Wagner are the co-coordinators of this event. (Photos:
Desert Bar Association’s Inn of Court, led by Brian
Harnik, brought a team of judges and lawyers to
interface with small groups on campus. The program
concluded with a visit to the Larsen Justice Center
where students participated in a mock trial and observed
live court processes that demonstrated our judicial
system in action.
above, Esteffania Bautista with Ambassador Timken; below,
“Judge” Anastasia Bocknewich presides; at right, Danetti Martino
prepares to be tried.)
Beth noted, “Having
Ambassador Timken at
PDCMS was a privilege as
well as a powerful learning
opportunity for students to
apply their understandings and
gain greater insight to the
United States and international
relations.” The Ambassador
shared his own personal
experiences, bringing
government to life and
challenging students to
question ideas they’d never thought of in regard to our
government and our country’s global influence.
Students were engaged by the Inn’s dedicated
professionals. Student Michelle Petersen stated the
program, “jump started my ever-growing interest in the
field of law.” For another student, Alessandra Horna, the
program was an experience in justice and revealed how
our American system establishes outcomes that are
“right for all people in society.”
Through this opportunity, PDCMS 8th graders reflected
and built upon their knowledge and understanding of the
United States Constitution. It was an authentic and
unique opportunity for 8th graders to consider their
rights and responsibilities as American citizens and
move ahead as thoughtful civic participants.
As students wrote their thank you letters, they shared
with the Ambassador that this
was “an opportunity of a
lifetime”, “by far the most
important moment of my
life”, and Aaron Hoffman
even stated, “now I want to
research government further
and maybe even pursue a
career in politics.” Students’
understanding of government
was enhanced as they learned
how the ambassador was, at
times, required to act as Chief
Executive and create U.S.
foreign policy.
The following week, students
learned how the Constitution
guides our legal system. The
19
ANNOUNCEMENTS, FUNDRAISERS, AND EVENTS
Phase II School Emergency Management Workshop has been
scheduled for Wednesday, May 4, 2016, from 4:30-7:30 pm
in room 203 at the DEC North.
This workshop will build upon the training presented in the Phase I
workshop on April 19, 2016, but attendance to the Phase I workshop
is not a prerequisite for attendance to the May 4th workshop.
The Phase II workshop will consist of a brief ICS review followed by
a large scale tabletop exercise simulating a district wide emergency
affecting multiple school sites and necessitating activation of the
District emergency Operations Center (EOC).
The EOC will be activated to full stage during this exercise.
This is an excellent opportunity for anyone who might be involved in an emergency incident at a
school or the district offices, and especially for those who might be in a leadership role during an
emergency incident affecting the district.
Please contact Sylvia Damelio at (760) 771-8645 or sylvia.damelio@desertsands.us to reserve
a seat. Attendance is limited, so please reserve early. Thank you.
(Photo of DSUSD Safety and Security Director Jeff Kaye at the April workshop. With him are Claudia Ortiz and Jill Martin, members of the La Quinta High School contingent.)
20
ANNOUNCEMENTS, FUNDRAISERS, AND EVENTS
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Share it!
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News and photos always welcome!
Send to mary.perry@desertsands.us
Kindly submit all informational flyers
as jpgs (not pdfs).
To unsubscribe email mary.perry@desertsands.us
21
ANNOUNCEMENTS, FUNDRAISERS, AND EVENTS
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ANNOUNCEMENTS, FUNDRAISERS, AND EVENTS
23
ANNOUNCEMENTS, FUNDRAISERS, AND EVENTS
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ANNOUNCEMENTS, FUNDRAISERS, AND EVENTS
25
ANNOUNCEMENTS, FUNDRAISERS, AND EVENTS
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ANNOUNCEMENTS, FUNDRAISERS, AND EVENTS
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ANNOUNCEMENTS, FUNDRAISERS, AND EVENTS
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ANNOUNCEMENTS, FUNDRAISERS, AND EVENTS
A variety of organizations are in the process of
accepting applications for summer camps. Desert Sands
Unified School District neither endorses nor sponsors
the organization or activities. The distribution of this
material is provided as a community service. Any camp
wishing to be listed can send information to
Mary.Perry@desertsands.us
2016 Young at Art
Coachella Valley History Museum
760-219-9758 or 760-200-4355
Journey with George and His Junior Historians
Coachella Valley History Museum
760-610-4209 or paolacalderon81@yahoo.com
Children’s Discovery Museum
of the Desert
760-321-0602 or cdmod.org
YMCA of the Desert
www.ymcaofthedesert.org
Summer Zoo Camp
The Living Desert
760-346-5694 ext. 2501
Palm Valley School Summer Camp
760-328-0861
Museum Art Camp
Palm Springs Art Museum
29
ANNOUNCEMENTS, FUNDRAISERS, AND EVENTS
KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION
APRIL 6, 2016, TO JUNE 17, 2016
AT DESERT SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
Desert Sands Unified School District elementary schools are accepting
kindergarten registrations for the 2016-2017 school year.
Parents or guardians of children who will be 5 years old on or before
September 1, 2016, are to register their children for kindergarten at the
school their child will be attending. The new law SB 1381, Kindergarten
Readiness Act, established a 2-year kindergarten program known as
Transitional Kindergarten. Parents or guardians of children whose 5 the
birthday occurs on or between September and December 2, 2016, will
be allowed to register, for Transitional Kindergarten at the school site
the child will be attending.
Parents are to call the school their child will be attending for registration times. The following are the district’s elementary schools and phone numbers.
Carrillo Ranch 238-9700
Lincoln 862-4340
Earhart 200-3720
Monroe 772-4130
Franklin 238-9424
Truman 777-4240
Johnson 863-3680
Kennedy 775-3840
Dr. Carreon Academy 863-1544
Madison 775-3850
Ford 772-4120
Roosevelt 775-3860
Horizon 238-9720
Carter 862-4370
Jackson 775-3830
Eisenhower 775-3810
Reagan 772-0456
Hoover 775-3820
Van Buren 775-3870
For admission to kindergarten, children will have had their 5th birthday on or before September 1of that school
year. Transitional kindergarten children will have their 5th birthday between September and December 2 of that
school year.
The following documents are required for a completed registration:
1. Proof of residency—one of the following is required:  current utility bill (gas or electric) with physical address
(P.O. Box is not acceptable);  or, lease or rental agreement on letterhead, listing name of the parent/guardian;
 or, escrow papers listing the name of the parent/guardian; closing date must be within four weeks of the start
of the school term;  or, affidavit of residency from person with whom the guardian and student are residing
with, and a current utility bill (gas or electric) of that resident, and a copy of both parties’ driver licenses.
2. Proof of birth – one of the following is required: (NO PHOTOCOPIES WILL BE ACCEPTED)  birth certificate;  hospital certificate;  notarized affidavit;  immigration document;  baptismal record/church certificate;  physician's certificate;  other (adoption papers, court decree, passport)
3. Proof of guardianship, if student does not live with parents—one of the following is required:  legal guardianship—court ordered (foster care, etc.);  affidavit of parental responsibility (signature must be witnessed by
school district official) (definition: any person with whom the minor is residing, and with whom the
parent/guardian is in agreement, and who is willing to complete the form);  caregiver’s authorization affidavit
(signature must be witnessed by school district official) (definition: a "qualified relative" of the minor child and
with whom the minor child resides, and the parents are not accessible to give consent. (F.C. Div 11, Sect. 6550)
- “qualified relative,” means a spouse, parent, stepparent, brother, sister, stepbrother, half-brother, uncle, aunt,
niece, nephew, first cousin, or any person denoted by the prefix, “grand” or “great,” or the spouse of any of the
persons specified in this definition, even after the marriage has been terminated by death or dissolution.
(continued next page)
30
ANNOUNCEMENTS, FUNDRAISERS, AND EVENTS
KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION
APRIL 6, 2016, TO JUNE 17, 2016
AT DESERT SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT (continued)
4. Proof of residency—one of the following is required:  current utility bill (gas or electric) with physical address
(P.O. Box is not acceptable);  or, lease or rental agreement on letterhead, listing name of the parent/guardian;
 or, escrow papers listing the name of the parent/guardian; closing date must be within four weeks of the start of
the school term;  or, affidavit of residency from person with whom the guardian and student are residing with,
and a current utility bill (gas or electric) of that resident, and a copy of both parties’ driver licenses.
5. Proof of birth – one of the following is required: (NO PHOTOCOPIES WILL BE ACCEPTED)  birth
certificate;  hospital certificate;  notarized affidavit;  immigration document;  baptismal record/church
certificate;  physician's certificate;  other (adoption papers, court decree, passport)
6. Proof of guardianship, if student does not live with parents—one of the following is required:  legal
guardianship—court ordered (foster care, etc.);  affidavit of parental responsibility (signature must be witnessed
by school district official) (definition: any person with whom the minor is residing, and with whom the
parent/guardian is in agreement, and who is willing to complete the form);  caregiver’s authorization affidavit
(signature must be witnessed by school district official) (definition: a "qualified relative" of the minor child and
with whom the minor child resides, and the parents are not accessible to give consent. (F.C. Div 11, Sect. 6550) “qualified relative,” means a spouse, parent, stepparent, brother, sister, stepbrother, half-brother, uncle, aunt,
niece, nephew, first cousin, or any person denoted by the prefix, “grand” or “great,” or the spouse of any of the
persons specified in this definition, even after the marriage has been terminated by death or dissolution.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR KINDERGARTEN/TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN, GRADE 1
AND GRADE 7 STUDENTS:
 Physical examination: (form PM 171A) - completed within six months of the date child is entering
kindergarten/transitional kindergarten, or within 18 months of entering first grade. Note: if the child has a
preschool exam under Medi-Cal or CHDP, he/she may not be eligible for another exam for 1-2 years. Parents must
sign a wavier (form PM 171B).
 MMR: kindergarten/transitional kindergarten and above grade 7 students require two (2) doses given on or after
the first birthday.
 Hepatitis B: kindergarten/transitional kindergarten above require three doses.
 Polio – Four (4) doses at any age, but three (3) doses meet the requirement for ages 4-6 if at least one (1) was
given on or after the fourth birthday.
 DTP/DTaP – Five (5) doses, at any age, but four (4) doses meet requirements for ages 4-6, if at least one (1) was
given on or after the fourth birthday.
 Tdap or DTap or DTP - One dose is given on or after the 7th birthday for ALL students promoting to 7th grade
and all NEW students entering 7th -12th grade.
 Varicella/Chickenpox immunization – verification/vaccine prior to enrolling in school. One (1) dose of the
varicella vaccine is required for all children who have not had the
disease. If the child has already had chickenpox, a physician or medical
clinic must verify. Out of state students grades 1-12 one (1) dose for
children under 13 years; two (2) doses are needed if immunized on
or after 13th birthday, or physician/medical clinic verification of
having had the disease.
 Dental exam - oral health assessment completed by a licensed dental
professional for children entering public school for the first time at
kindergarten/transitional kindergarten or first (1st) grade. The exam
may be completed 12 months prior to school entry or by May 31st
of the school year during which the child is enrolled.
31
32
ANNOUNCEMENTS, FUNDRAISERS, AND EVENTS
ATTENTION
DESERT SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
STAFF MEMBERS
Picture this...it is a Sunday night,
11:30 pm, there is a loss of
electricity in the neighborhood of
your school site,. It will take 24
hours to be repaired. School is
called off for the next day. Students
and their families are notified via
SchoolMessenger. But, if disaster
strikes during non-school hours,
how can we reach you to provide
you with instructions or updates?
Please provide an email or phone
number for calling and/or texting.
This information will be kept
strictly confidential and only used
for this purpose.
????
To provide the information, contact
us at:
Adriana.Romero@desertsands.us.
33