Fillmore Middle School educators attended Advancement Via Individual Determination’s (AVID) Summer Institute to learn more about the latest strategies to prepare students to be college and career ready. AVID’s mission is to close the opportunity gap by preparing all students for college and career readiness and success in a global society.
Fillmore Middle School educators attended Advancement Via Individual Determination’s (AVID) Summer Institute to learn more about the latest strategies to prepare students to be college and career ready. AVID’s mission is to close the opportunity gap by preparing all students for college and career readiness and success in a global society.
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Elva Gonzalez Nares, Director Expanded Learning, Multilingual Learner & Quality Programs
Elva Gonzalez Nares, Director Expanded Learning, Multilingual Learner & Quality Programs

Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2...

Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle said, “Elva Gonzalez Nares is an experienced and dedicated educator with a career spanning 28 years. She will begin a new role as the Director of Expanded Learning, Multilingual Learners, and Quality Programs in the Fillmore Unified School District. Throughout her extensive career, Elva has demonstrated a deep commitment to enhancing educational experiences and outcomes for students.

Elva's career began in the classroom, where she spent 17 years teaching elementary school children in grades 3rd, 4th, and 5th. Her passion for education and student engagement led her to take on various roles beyond teaching. She has served as a principal, assistant principal, and English Language Development (ELD) teacher on special assignment. In these roles, she focused on maximizing student engagement and supporting English learners. Elva has also led professional development initiatives both at the district and site levels, emphasizing lesson modeling, data analysis, and identifying barriers to student achievement.

As a principal, Elva has been a champion of educational excellence, guiding her school towards academic success and fostering a positive, inclusive atmosphere for all students and staff. Her leadership has been instrumental in creating environments where students can thrive academically and personally.

Elva is a lifelong resident of Ventura County and is proud to be the parent of an adult son who is following in her footsteps to become a teacher. She is a first-generation college graduate and the first in her family to earn a master's degree, highlighting her dedication to education and personal growth.

Elva is honored to join the Fillmore Unified School District family and looks forward to impacting student outcomes positively in her new role. Her extensive experience and passion for education make her a valuable addition to the district's leadership team.”

 


 
Roger Adams, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services & Human Resources
Roger Adams, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services & Human Resources

Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2....

Roger Adams, a lifelong resident of Oxnard, CA, and father of two, has dedicated 25 years to education, supporting students and communities across Ventura County and the state. After graduating from Oxnard High School in 1991, he attended Oxnard Community College before transferring to the University of California, Irvine, where he studied Developmental Cell Biology. During his studies, Roger worked with organizations advocating for underrepresented communities, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). This advocacy work sparked his passion for teaching, leading him to work with students ranging from kindergarten to university undergraduates.

Upon earning his degree, Roger pursued a California teaching credential and a Master’s in Education from California Lutheran University while teaching at EO Green Middle School in the Hueneme School District. In 2004, he transitioned to Pacifica High School in Oxnard, where he continued as a life science teacher and contributed to developing Career Academies. His efforts in grant writing and curriculum development were instrumental in establishing the Health Science Academy and Teaching and Educational Careers Academy, which became models for career academies district-wide.

In 2008, Roger was promoted to Dean of Student Accountability at Hueneme High School, where he led the establishment of the Engineering and Design Career Pathway, the school’s first career academy. He quickly advanced to assistant principal at Pacifica High School, where he spent three years enhancing students’ academic and social-emotional success. Subsequently, Roger was appointed Director of Expanded Learning Services with the Ventura County Office of Education, collaborating with K-12 districts statewide to provide leadership, resources, and technical assistance for state and federal after-school grant programs.

Despite the broad impact of his work, Roger chose to return to his home district as the inaugural principal of Rancho Campana High School, a comprehensive Career Academy school focused on Health Science, Engineering, and the Arts. Over three years, he led the development of the physical and academic infrastructure, propelling Rancho Campana to rank as the 66th-best high school in California out of 1,299 schools. In 2018, he became Principal of Channel Islands High School in South Oxnard, revitalizing a positive school culture that ensured students felt safe, welcomed, and supported both academically and socially.

Roger’s dedication and hard work led to his appointment as Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, where he created collaborative and innovative environments to implement research-based educational programs. His efforts supported the district’s vision of prosperity through equity, inquiry, and wellness for all 16,400 students and their families.
As Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Student Services for the Fillmore Unified School District, Roger brings his extensive experience and expertise to the Fillmore educational community. He is committed to the FUSD Mission to harness the power of culture, history, and traditions to create opportunities designed to produce high-performing students who are productive members of the community and society.

 

https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2...

Last week, graduating seniors from Fillmore High School’s Class of 2024 embarked on a heartfelt journey down memory lane, visiting their former elementary schools to express gratitude to the teachers who significantly impacted their lives. This nostalgic event took place across several schools, starting with Rio Vista, then moving to Piru, San Cayetano, and concluding at Mountain Vista and Fillmore Middle School (FMS).

This year saw a significant increase in student participation, with nearly 80 seniors visiting FMS alone. The enthusiasm and turnout underscored the strong bonds and appreciation the students felt towards their former educators.
The event allowed seniors to reconnect with their past in meaningful ways. They revisited classrooms, spending time thanking and bidding farewell to their special teachers. These interactions were filled with emotional exchanges and reflections on the journey from elementary school to high school graduation.

Additionally, the seniors took the time to answer questions from the younger students, sharing insights about high school life and the path to graduation. This interaction provided elementary students with valuable perspectives and inspiration for their own educational journeys.

Beyond the classroom visits, the seniors indulged in the simple joys of their elementary school days. They played handball, soccer, swung on the swings, and enjoyed the jungle gym, momentarily reliving the carefree days of their childhood. This playful engagement added a layer of fun and nostalgia to the event, bridging the past and present in a heartwarming way.
The event was lauded as a wonderful opportunity for reflection, appreciation, and community building. It highlighted the lasting impact of teachers and the importance of maintaining connections within our small town and educational community.

 
On May 20, 2024, the Piru Condors started the week with a wildlife presentation! Students learned about the importance of protecting the habits of endangered species as well as facts about the animals they saw.  Thank you, Meghan of Ventura County Library, for bringing this exciting opportunity to our Piru students! Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1188511565454683&set=pcb.1188516302120876.
On May 20, 2024, the Piru Condors started the week with a wildlife presentation! Students learned about the importance of protecting the habits of endangered species as well as facts about the animals they saw. Thank you, Meghan of Ventura County Library, for bringing this exciting opportunity to our Piru students! Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1188511565454683&set=pcb.1188516302120876.
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MANCHESTER, NH (05/15/2024)-- It is with great pleasure that Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) congratulates the following students on being named to the Winter 2024 President's List. The winter terms run from January to May.
Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above for the reporting term are named to the President's List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.

Sammantha Loza of Fillmore (93015)
Dillon Galarza of Fillmore (93015)
Justice Negron of Fillmore (93015)

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private, nonprofit institution with an 91-year history of educating traditional-aged students and working adults. Now serving more than 225,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 accredited undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs, available online and on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH. Recognized as the "Most Innovative" regional university by U.S. News & World Report and one of the fastest-growing universities in the country, SNHU is committed to expanding access to high quality, affordable pathways that meet the needs of each learner. Learn more at www.snhu.edu.

 
Last week, Rotary Club of Fillmore had the honor of presenting Scholarships to eight Fillmore High students. They were all outstanding students with amazing goals and ambitions. The students and presenters were Graciela Herrera, Brady Labor, Laura Orozco, Joseph Bronston, Presenter Rotarian Sean Morris, Diego Ramirez, Presenter Rotarian Barb Filkins, Athena Sanchez, Presenters Rotarians Scott Beylik and Christine Schieferle, Della Alamillo and Nataly Virgil. Courtesy Rotarian Martha Richardson.
Last week, Rotary Club of Fillmore had the honor of presenting Scholarships to eight Fillmore High students. They were all outstanding students with amazing goals and ambitions. The students and presenters were Graciela Herrera, Brady Labor, Laura Orozco, Joseph Bronston, Presenter Rotarian Sean Morris, Diego Ramirez, Presenter Rotarian Barb Filkins, Athena Sanchez, Presenters Rotarians Scott Beylik and Christine Schieferle, Della Alamillo and Nataly Virgil. Courtesy Rotarian Martha Richardson.
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Last week Sierra High School hosted a Career Fair. Sierra High is dedicated to providing students with opportunities for exploring their future careers. A huge thank you to counselor Jackie for organizing the event. It was a big success in helping open students’ minds to a world of possibilities. Students and staff were also able to suit up like some of the Army, Police, and Firefighters, to get a feel for what they do. Go warriors! Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/sierra-high-school-warriors-blog/a2024/5/19/career-fair.
Last week Sierra High School hosted a Career Fair. Sierra High is dedicated to providing students with opportunities for exploring their future careers. A huge thank you to counselor Jackie for organizing the event. It was a big success in helping open students’ minds to a world of possibilities. Students and staff were also able to suit up like some of the Army, Police, and Firefighters, to get a feel for what they do. Go warriors! Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/sierra-high-school-warriors-blog/a2024/5/19/career-fair.
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On Friday, May 10, 2024, Sierra High School and Heritage Valley Independent Studies families got together to celebrate Mother’s Day. Principal Blanca Mendieta said, “We had an amazing Mother’s Day night of painting fun. Thank you to Ms. Wojciechowski for bringing out our inner artist. We look forward to many more special moments with our Sierra High and Heritage Valley families!” Folks were able to take a photo with their mothers to commemorate the evening as well.
On Friday, May 10, 2024, Sierra High School and Heritage Valley Independent Studies families got together to celebrate Mother’s Day. Principal Blanca Mendieta said, “We had an amazing Mother’s Day night of painting fun. Thank you to Ms. Wojciechowski for bringing out our inner artist. We look forward to many more special moments with our Sierra High and Heritage Valley families!” Folks were able to take a photo with their mothers to commemorate the evening as well.
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Last week, students from San Cayetano Elementary competed in the annual Battle of the Books competition sponsored by the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE). Battle of the Books is a fast-paced trivia-style game in which students in grades 3rd-5th answer questions about books they have read from the VCOE Battle of the Books list. The event encourages students to read a variety of genres and have fun. Nineteen students from San Cayetano Elementary met 1-2 times a week for 17 weeks with their teacher Mr. Craig and librarian Mrs. Santiago. They showed so much dedication and hard work reading through the 14 books on the list. Many schools participated throughout Ventura County and Fillmore proved to be a top contender! This was Fillmore’s first time attending the event and students cannot wait to participate again in the future. More photos online at wwwFillmoreGazette.com.
Last week, students from San Cayetano Elementary competed in the annual Battle of the Books competition sponsored by the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE). Battle of the Books is a fast-paced trivia-style game in which students in grades 3rd-5th answer questions about books they have read from the VCOE Battle of the Books list. The event encourages students to read a variety of genres and have fun. Nineteen students from San Cayetano Elementary met 1-2 times a week for 17 weeks with their teacher Mr. Craig and librarian Mrs. Santiago. They showed so much dedication and hard work reading through the 14 books on the list. Many schools participated throughout Ventura County and Fillmore proved to be a top contender! This was Fillmore’s first time attending the event and students cannot wait to participate again in the future. More photos online at wwwFillmoreGazette.com.
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Students in Mrs. Appleford’s 4th grade class at San Cayetano Elementary have become published authors. Each student contributed to the book by researching, writing about, and illustrating their favorite animal. Favorite animals included snakes, lions, hedgehogs, kangaroos, cheetahs, ferrets, gorillas, and many more. Mrs. Appleford worked with a sponsor to help get the hardcover book printed and published.
Students in Mrs. Appleford’s 4th grade class at San Cayetano Elementary have become published authors. Each student contributed to the book by researching, writing about, and illustrating their favorite animal. Favorite animals included snakes, lions, hedgehogs, kangaroos, cheetahs, ferrets, gorillas, and many more. Mrs. Appleford worked with a sponsor to help get the hardcover book printed and published.
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Mountain Vista Elementary and Rio Vista Elementary held their annual career days last week. Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle said, “As part of our ongoing mission to develop high-performing students who are engaged and productive members of society, the Fillmore Unified School District supports college and career education beginning at the elementary school level. We would like to thank all the businesses and professionals who donate their time in partnership with the district. The information and inspiration provided to our students is invaluable, opening young minds to a diverse range of possibilities that helps each student realize their future potential.” Photos courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2024/4/19/college-amp-career-days and on the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/504261341700301/posts/926889709437460.
Mountain Vista Elementary and Rio Vista Elementary held their annual career days last week. Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle said, “As part of our ongoing mission to develop high-performing students who are engaged and productive members of society, the Fillmore Unified School District supports college and career education beginning at the elementary school level. We would like to thank all the businesses and professionals who donate their time in partnership with the district. The information and inspiration provided to our students is invaluable, opening young minds to a diverse range of possibilities that helps each student realize their future potential.” Photos courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2024/4/19/college-amp-career-days and on the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/504261341700301/posts/926889709437460.
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Josh the Baby Otter and members of the Fillmore Rotary Club visited Mountain Vista Elementary to share the message of water safety with Preschool and Transitional Kindergarten classes! Thank you, Baby Josh and the Fillmore Rotary for your continued support! Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/504261341700301/posts/925133602946404.
Josh the Baby Otter and members of the Fillmore Rotary Club visited Mountain Vista Elementary to share the message of water safety with Preschool and Transitional Kindergarten classes! Thank you, Baby Josh and the Fillmore Rotary for your continued support! Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/504261341700301/posts/925133602946404.
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On April 8, 2024, Rio Vista Elementary students were able to view the solar eclipse. Prior to the event, they learned all about solar eclipses. Pictured is Ms. Henderson’s class safely viewing the exciting event.
On April 8, 2024, Rio Vista Elementary students were able to view the solar eclipse. Prior to the event, they learned all about solar eclipses. Pictured is Ms. Henderson’s class safely viewing the exciting event.
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Camarillo, Calif. (April 3, 2024) — Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura colleges are proud to announce that all three institutions are launching applied baccalaureate degree programs on their campuses. As a part of the California Baccalaureate Degree Pilot Program, these first of their kind degrees offer the Ventura County community increased access to affordable career education that will prepare them for well-paying jobs in the region.

These four-year programs were designed to meet the specific workforce needs of the region that are not currently met by the local California State Universities. Moorpark College’s Bachelor of Science in Biomanufacturing, Ventura College’s Bachelor of Science in Automotive Career Education and Oxnard College’s Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene each will provide students with the knowledge and skills needed for high demand jobs within the changing, high technology industries in the county.

“The Community Colleges of Ventura County are responding to the evolving workforce needs by introducing new bachelor’s degrees," said Chancellor Rick MacLennan.

According to the state's Final Evaluation of the Community College Bachelor's Degree Pilot, 51% of students enrolled in a community college bachelor's degree program would not have otherwise pursued a bachelor’s education had it not been offered at their local community college. With the Ventura County community colleges’ upcoming program launches, these opportunities are extending to those students who may not have previously seen college in their futures. Through the Bachelor's Degree Pilot Program, tuition is capped at $130 per unit and $10,560 for the entire program—this means that many students who qualify for the College Promise program, state and federal aid and other financial aid options will now have another affordable path toward achieving academic success.

"The Baccalaureate Degree Pilot Program is a transformative, potentially life-changing step forward for our local community college students in Ventura County," remarked Board Chair Bernardo Perez. "This legislation empowers our community colleges to offer applied bachelor's degrees in high-demand fields that will meet the specific needs of our community and workforce."

Following the successful approval of their initial bachelor’s degree programs, the Ventura County community colleges continue to develop additional programs. Moorpark College’s proposed Bachelor of Science in Applied Cybersecurity & Network Operations is currently in review, and Oxnard College has recently submitted a new proposal for a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Advocacy & Organizing. As these diverse academic programs demonstrate, the Ventura County community colleges collectively strive to meet the future with innovation and inclusivity.

"Moorpark College is proud to lead the charge in offering a bachelor’s program to our county’s students, and we are eagerly looking forward to seeing the programs in Dental Hygiene at Oxnard College and Automotive Career Education at Ventura College come to fruition," said Dr. Julius Sokenu, president of Moorpark College. "Together, we're not just expanding educational opportunities; we're setting the stage for our students to excel in the careers of tomorrow."

Moorpark College is accepting students for the Bachelor of Science in Biomanufacturing program’s inaugural class in Fall 2024. To learn more about the Bachelor’s Degree Programs at the Ventura County community colleges, visit vcccd.edu/bachelorsdegree.

About Ventura County Community College District
The Ventura County Community College District is a member of the 116-campus California Community College system and serves approximately 30,000 students annually. The District's three colleges—Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura—offer programs in general education for degrees and certificates, transfer to four-year colleges and universities, career technical education and provide opportunities to engage in co-curricular campus activities. For more information, visit vcccd.edu.

To view this press release on our website or to access it in a different file format
(i.e. doc, pdf, html) please visit: vcccd.edu/news

 
On March 27, 2024, 8th grade history students at Fillmore Middle School participated in the annual Civil War Living History event. They learned what it was like to be in the Civil War by first studying about it in history class, and then getting the opportunity to experience what it was like to be in the war by reenacting specific events. Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/497825872344899/posts/942474831213332.
On March 27, 2024, 8th grade history students at Fillmore Middle School participated in the annual Civil War Living History event. They learned what it was like to be in the Civil War by first studying about it in history class, and then getting the opportunity to experience what it was like to be in the war by reenacting specific events. Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/497825872344899/posts/942474831213332.
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Pictured right, Ms. Lamberson’s class learned about water safety through the Josh the Otter presentation, sponsored by Fillmore Rotary to ensure children in the community receive Josh the Otter water safety materials before summer. Thank you, Rotary of Fillmore!
Pictured right, Ms. Lamberson’s class learned about water safety through the Josh the Otter presentation, sponsored by Fillmore Rotary to ensure children in the community receive Josh the Otter water safety materials before summer. Thank you, Rotary of Fillmore!
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Pictured right, is the 5th grade students from Mountain Vista Elementary who had the opportunity to visit the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. They were able to learn about and experience our nation’s history and government. Photo credit https://www.facebook.com/504261341700301/posts/920578823401882.
Pictured right, is the 5th grade students from Mountain Vista Elementary who had the opportunity to visit the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. They were able to learn about and experience our nation’s history and government. Photo credit https://www.facebook.com/504261341700301/posts/920578823401882.
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Innovative four-year pathways meet regional workforce needs

Camarillo, Calif. (April 3, 2024) — Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura colleges are proud to announce that all three institutions are launching applied baccalaureate degree programs on their campuses. As a part of the California Baccalaureate Degree Pilot Program, these first of their kind degrees offer the Ventura County community increased access to affordable career education that will prepare them for well-paying jobs in the region.

These four-year programs were designed to meet the specific workforce needs of the region that are not currently met by the local California State Universities. Moorpark College’s Bachelor of Science in Biomanufacturing, Ventura College’s Bachelor of Science in Automotive Career Education and Oxnard College’s Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene each will provide students with the knowledge and skills needed for high demand jobs within the changing, high technology industries in the county.

“The Community Colleges of Ventura County are responding to the evolving workforce needs by introducing new bachelor’s degrees," said Chancellor Rick MacLennan.

According to the state's Final Evaluation of the Community College Bachelor's Degree Pilot, 51% of students enrolled in a community college bachelor's degree program would not have otherwise pursued a bachelor’s education had it not been offered at their local community college. With the Ventura County community colleges’ upcoming program launches, these opportunities are extending to those students who may not have previously seen college in their futures. Through the Bachelor's Degree Pilot Program, tuition is capped at $130 per unit and $10,560 for the entire program—this means that many students who qualify for the College Promise program, state and federal aid and other financial aid options will now have another affordable path toward achieving academic success.

"The Baccalaureate Degree Pilot Program is a transformative, potentially life-changing step forward for our local community college students in Ventura County," remarked Board Chair Bernardo Perez. "This legislation empowers our community colleges to offer applied bachelor's degrees in high-demand fields that will meet the specific needs of our community and workforce."

Following the successful approval of their initial bachelor’s degree programs, the Ventura County community colleges continue to develop additional programs. Moorpark College’s proposed Bachelor of Science in Applied Cybersecurity & Network Operations is currently in review, and Oxnard College has recently submitted a new proposal for a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Advocacy & Organizing. As these diverse academic programs demonstrate, the Ventura County community colleges collectively strive to meet the future with innovation and inclusivity.

"Moorpark College is proud to lead the charge in offering a bachelor’s program to our county’s students, and we are eagerly looking forward to seeing the programs in Dental Hygiene at Oxnard College and Automotive Career Education at Ventura College come to fruition," said Dr. Julius Sokenu, president of Moorpark College. "Together, we're not just expanding educational opportunities; we're setting the stage for our students to excel in the careers of tomorrow."

Moorpark College is accepting students for the Bachelor of Science in Biomanufacturing program’s inaugural class in Fall 2024. To learn more about the Bachelor’s Degree Programs at the Ventura County community colleges, visit vcccd.edu/bachelors degree.

About Ventura County Community College District
The Ventura County Community College District is a member of the 116-campus California Community College system and serves approximately 30,000 students annually. The District's three colleges—Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura—offer programs in general education for degrees and certificates, transfer to four-year colleges and universities, career technical education and provide opportunities to engage in co-curricular campus activities. For more information, visit vcccd.edu.

To view this press release on our website or to access it in a different file format

(i.e. doc, pdf, html) please visit: vcccd.edu/news