Camarillo, CA - Eight undergraduate students who show outstanding promise in chemistry and biology research recently were awarded $1,000 scholarships from CSU Channel Islands (CI).

The juniors and seniors work with faculty in the chemistry and biology programs, tackling issues ranging from examining the relationship between smog and local weather conditions to synthesizing drugs for Alzheimer’s disease.

The students received the awards based on their faculty mentors’ recommendations and assessments of their achievements and potential.

“I feel extremely grateful and humbled having received such a scholarship,” said Mary Grabiak, a biology major working with Dr. Nitika Parmar, by investigating tumor protein effects on metabolic pathways. “Having participated in undergraduate research, I know that I will be a better, well-rounded pharmacist. Research has taught me that you may not find the exact answer you are looking for, but doors to many other opportunities and questions will be opened just in trying.”

Undergraduate student research is an important part of the student learning experience at CI. Each semester, approximately 60 students majoring in biology and chemistry collaborate with a professor in an attempt to answer an unresolved scientific question.

“Answering a scientific question ignites a process of discovery in these students that you can’t duplicate in a classroom laboratory setting,” said Dr. Simone Aloisio, Chair of the Chemistry program, who mentors several undergraduate researchers. “Their research projects may end up inconclusive – or they may have a rare breakthrough – but that’s how discoveries are made. The process of trial and error really awakens a passion for science and knowledge in these students.”

It also provides the undergraduates with hands-on research experience that is attractive to graduate schools and prospective employers.

Paulina Kolic, a 2010 graduate of CI’s Chemistry program, is now working toward her Ph.D. at Louisiana State University.

“My research experience at CI helped prepare me for my graduate studies by developing my critical thinking skills and my ability to troubleshoot and learn on my own,” she said. “Graduate schools look for students that have had to go through the trials associated with research.”

For additional information, contact Dr. Simone Aloisio at 805-437-8999 or simone.aloisio@csuci.edu.

About California State University Channel Islands
CSU Channel Islands (CI) is the only four-year, public university in Ventura County and is known for its interdisciplinary, multicultural and international perspectives, and its emphasis on experiential and service learning. CI’s strong academic programs focus on business, sciences, liberal studies, teaching credentials, and innovative master’s degrees. Students benefit from individual attention, up-to-date technology, and classroom instruction augmented by outstanding faculty research.

The Martin V. Smith School of Business & Economics at CSU Channel Islands (CI) will kick off its Spring 2012 Speaker Series Wednesday, Feb. 8, with actor and comedian Cheech Marin. The performer is the first in a trio of speakers representing the entertainment and recreation industries. Each speaker will discuss their background, work, and the current issues affecting their organizations and professions. All three on-campus programs are free, include lunch or refreshments, and are open to the public by reservation.

Cheech Marin, Actor/comedian/director/writer

Wednesday, Feb. 8, at 6 p.m. in Salon A

Best known as one half of the hilariously irreverent duo of Cheech and Chong, Cheech Marin also has authored three bilingual children’s books and developed one of the country’s finest and most extensive private collections of Chicano art. He’s currently writing a book of comedic essays entitled “The Chimichanga Chronicles.”

Rich Block, CEO/Director, Santa Barbara Zoo

Friday, Feb. 24, at noon in Malibu Hall 100

Rich Block has served as CEO and Director of the Santa Barbara Zoo since 1998. He previously held roles as Vice President for Science & Program Development at the Indianapolis Zoo and Director of Public Programs/Senior Fellow for World Wildlife Fund. Block currently sits on the California Association of Zoos & Aquariums Board as Vice President.

Bob Santelli, Executive Director of The GRAMMY Museum

Friday, April 27, at noon in Malibu Hall 100

Bob Santelli has served as Executive Director of The GRAMMY Museum since 2006. A noted blues and rock historian, Santelli is the author of more than a dozen books on American music and was the first Director of Education and Vice President of Public Programs at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Santelli created “An Evening With...,” a series that features in-depth interviews with artists such as Dave Matthews, Brian Wilson, Annie Lennox, and Smokey Robinson. While continuing to serve on the creative team for the annual GRAMMY® Awards Show, he also wrote and developed “The Official Michael Jackson Exhibition.”

"We are delighted to host these prominent industry leaders and look forward to their presentations,” said Dr. William Cordeiro, Director of the Martin V. Smith School of Business & Economics. “We are especially grateful that they will take time from their very busy schedules to speak to our students and community members."

The Speaker Series is sponsored and presented by the Business Advisory Council of the MVS School of Business & Economics. RSVP at https://csuci.wufoo.com/forms/spring-2012-speaker-series/.

Limited parking is available on campus. Attendees should follow signs to the designated parking lot. Additional free parking is available at the Camarillo Metrolink Station/Lewis Road parking lot in Camarillo with bus service to and from the campus. Riders should board the VISTA bus to the campus; the fare will be complimentary each way for guests attending the Cheech Marin event. Buses arrive and depart from the Camarillo Metrolink Station every 30 minutes from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Friday. For exact times, check the schedule at www.goventura.org.

For more information, contact Merissa Stith, Events Coordinator, at 805-437-8548 or merissa.stith@csuci.edu.

About California State University Channel Islands
CSU Channel Islands (CI) is the only four-year, public university in Ventura County and is known for its interdisciplinary, multicultural and international perspectives, and its emphasis on experiential and service learning. CI’s strong academic programs focus on business, sciences, liberal studies, teaching credentials, and innovative master’s degrees. Students benefit from individual attention, up-to-date technology, and classroom instruction augmented by outstanding faculty research.

THOUSAND OAKS, CA - California Lutheran University has received a $150,000 grant to research environmental justice in Oxnard.

The California Wellness Foundation awarded the two-year grant for two professors and selected student researchers to assess farmworkers’ exposure to pesticides, their knowledge of related health risks, and their ability to advocate for themselves. Based on the findings, the researchers will develop policy recommendations for promoting social justice in low-income communities of Ventura County.

Grady Hanrahan, the John Stauffer Endowed Professor of Analytical Chemistry, and Haco Hoang, an associate professor of political science, are the lead researchers. Students will assist with the project in the summer. Kaitlyn Noli, a Thousand Oaks resident who graduated with a degree in global studies in 2011, and Huong (Ivy) Nguyen, a sophomore chemistry major from Vietnam, will work on the project full time this summer. Both were members of a team of students that conducted initial research for the project last summer.

By testing water, soil and urine samples, the researchers are monitoring exposure to pesticides and comparing the results for farmworkers and others who don’t work or live near farms. They are also looking for correlations between pesticide exposure and household income. Initial findings have shown significant concentrations of pesticides in a small area of agricultural land and higher than normal levels of pesticide exposure among the farmworkers.

Team members are conducting community meetings to gather input, educate people and encourage action on environmental health issues in areas with high rates of pesticide exposure. They will present the project to farmworkers at a Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project meeting in February and return in March to measure the pesticide exposure levels of volunteers.

Hanrahan and Hoang hope to increase public awareness about pesticide exposure, environmental health and channels for community input and action. As part of the project, they are assessing the effectiveness of media, such as Spanish-language radio, in communicating environmental health information.

The project is designed to promote community activism based on scientific findings and principles and to help the student researchers develop the skills to become agents of social change.

The faculty and student researchers plan to present preliminary findings at the International Making Cities Livable Conference to be held May 20 through 24 in Portland, Ore.

Buenaventura Art Association announces their 5th annual scholarship competition titled “The Buenaventura Art Association Emerging Artist Cup.” This competition is open to students attending college or university in Ventura County. Over $3,500 in scholarships will be awarded as well as 10 non-cash awards. All winners will also receive a free one year membership in the Buenaventura Art Association with exhibit opportunities throughout the year.

The competition runs from March 7 – April 2 with an opening reception/awards ceremony on Friday, March 9 from 5 – 8 pm at The Harbor Village Gallery in the Ventura Harbor Village. Students are requested to bring their work to the Harbor Village Gallery on Sunday, March 4 from 3 – 6 pm; Monday, March 5; or Tuesday March 6 from 11 am to 2 pm. Entry forms are available at either the Buenaventura Gallery, The Harbor Village Gallery or online at www.HarborVillageGallery.com.

The juror for the competition is Bob Privitt, Professor Emeritus from Pepperdine University. Privitt was a Professor of Fine Arts at Pepperdine University from 1979 to 2002 and director of the Pepperdine University Art Gallery. He’s in public collections at the University of Tulsa, Indiana University, Oklahoma Art Center, Pepperdine University and more. He’s won numerous awards in national competitions and has been a scholar-in-residence for the Borchard Foundation in Brittany, France. He’s featured in The California Art Review and Sculpture: Technique, Form, Content.

The funds for the competition were a direct result of Buenaventura Art Association’s scholarship fundraising efforts.

The Harbor Village Gallery is located at 1591 Spinnaker Dr , Suite 117C, Ventura, California, Phone: (805) 644 – 2750. Hours: 12 – 5, closed Tuesday. For more information: www.HarborVillageGallery.com.

Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy Conjunto Zacamandu (music from Veracruz- son jarocho) and Rey Fresco (rock, reggae, soul, world, and Latin music) in concert this Sunday, January 22, 2012 at the Fillmore Middle School Gym. The Rico and Mambo Morning Show will make a special appearance. The doors will open at 12:30 pm. Tickets are only $12 per person, and can be purchased from the high school band students, at the door, or by calling Jennie at 524-5632 or 415-2119 or Lisa at 524-1697. The Fillmore Band Boosters are grateful that these fine musicians and radio hosts are donating their time to raise funds for the band students in the entire district! Thank you to the community for your continued support.

FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
TUESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2012
5:00 P.M. – CLOSED SESSION
6:30 P.M. - REGULAR MEETING
627 SESPE AVENUE, FILLMORE, CALIFORNIA

AGENDA
The public may review or request a copy of support materials provided to the Board Members where the word materials appears.
5:00 p.m.
A. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
B. ROLL CALL
C. PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION AND NONAGENDA ITEMS, PETITIONS
This is the time and place to address the Board. State law prohibits the Board from acting on issues not included on the agenda; however, requests may be made for discussion of specific topics at subsequent meetings. Upon recognition by the President of the Board, please come forward and identify yourself before speaking. The Board of Education reserves the right to limit speaking time to three (3) minutes or less per individual.
D. CLOSED SESSION
The Board of Education will meet from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. to consider matters appropriate for Closed Session in accordance with Government Code Sections 3549.1, 54956.7 through 54957.7 and Education Code Section 35146. If the Board does not complete Closed Session discussions at this time, the Board may adjourn to Closed Session at the end of the regular meeting. DISCLOSURE OF ITEM(S) TO BE DISCUSSED IN CLOSED SESSION Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Significant Exposure to Litigation Pursuant to Subdivision (b)(1) and (b)(3)(E) of Government Code Section 54956.9: One Potential Case Labor/Negotiations (Government Code 54957.6)
o Update; Direction to District Negotiators (Dr. Alan Nishino, Dr. Michael Bush, Todd Schieferle, Margaret Chidester) for negotiations with the Fillmore Unified Teachers Association (FUTA), the California School Employees Association (CSEA), Confidential Employees, and District Administration Personnel Matters (Government Code 54957)
o Hiring, Evaluating, Discipline, Dismissal, Release, Reassignment, Transfers Public Employee Performance Evaluation: Superintendent (The Board and
Superintendent meet periodically to provide feedback to one another concerning
the achievement of goals.)
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the Superintendent's Office at (805) 524-6038. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the district to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. [In accordance with Government Code 54961 and Board Bylaw 9320(a).]

6:30 p.m.
E. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION Any Action From Closed Session
F. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
G. PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS AND NONAGENDA ITEMS, PETITIONS
This is the time and place to address the school board. State law prohibits the Board from acting on issues not included on the agenda; however, requests may be made for discussion of specific topics at subsequent meetings. Upon recognition by the President of the Board, please come forward and identify yourself before speaking. The Board of Education reserves the right to limit speaking time to three (3) minutes or less per individual.
H. PUBLIC HEARING AND ACTION ON INITIAL PROPOSALS FOR BARGAINING OF FUSD AND CSEA
1. Public Hearing on Initial Proposal of the Fillmore Unified School District to the California School Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 421 for a Successor Contract Commencing July 1, 2012 (Materials)
2. Adoption of Initial Proposal of the Board of Education of the Fillmore Unified School District to the California School Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 421 for a Successor Contract Commencing July 1, 2012
6:45 p.m.
I. COMMUNICATIONS Student Representative’s Report Superintendent’s Report
7:00 p.m.
J. CONSENT ITEMS (Materials: Corresponding to numbers 3-17)
Items on the Consent Agenda are considered routine and will be enacted by a single motion. None of the items will be discussed unless a Board Member or member of the audience requests discussion.
3. Approve Minutes:
a. Regular Board Meeting Held November 15, 2011
b. Regular Board Meeting Held December 6, 2011
c. Special Board Meeting Held December 13, 2011
4. Approve Personnel Order 11-12-09
5. Ratify Accounts Payable Month of November 2011 (ReqPay12a)
6. Ratify Purchase Orders Month of November 2011 (ReqPay11a)
7. Ratify 11/01/11 through 11/30/11 Certificated and Classified Payroll in the
Amount of $1,669,915.71 (Pay01a)
8. Ratify Accounts Payable Month of December 2011 (ReqPay12a)
9. Ratify Purchase Orders Month of December 2011 (ReqPay11a)
10. Ratify 12/01/11 through 12/31/11 Certificated and Classified Payroll in the
Amount of $1,700,963.97 (Pay01a)
11. Donations
12. Obsolete Items
13. Contracts
14. Grants
15. Approve Request for Overnight Field Trip from Joe Ricards for Ag. Students to
Attend South Coast Region Interview Process for Officer Slate on February 26 - February 27, 2012 in San Luis Obispo, CA
16. Approve Request for Overnight Field Trip from Joe Ricards for Ag. Students to
Attend the Regional FFA Meeting to Elect the South Coast FFA Officers on March 15 - March 16, 2012 in King City, CA
17. Approve Request for Overnight Field Trip from Megan Hernandez/Claudia Cornejo for Students to Attend the Outdoor School at Rancho Alegre on May 15 - May 18, 2012
K. ACTION
18. Accept 2011 Audit Report (Materials upon request)
19. Accept 2011 Proposition 39 General Obligation Bond Performance Audit
(Materials upon request)
20. Approve Alternative Payment for the Use of Facilities Agreement with Fillmore
Band Boosters (Materials)
21. Approve Quarter Williams Uniform Compliance Reports (Materials)
a. October 2011
b. January 2012
8:00 p.m.
L. FUTURE MEETINGS
February 7 5:00 p.m. Closed Session – Board Room
6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting – Board Room
March 6 5:00 p.m. Closed Session – Board Room
6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting – Board Room
March 20 5:00 p.m. Closed Session – Board Room
6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting – Board Room
M. BOARD CLOSING COMMENTS AND AGENDA BUILDING
8:15 p.m.
N. ADJOURNMENT

Camarillo, CA - CSU Channel Islands (CI) Professor Dr. Cynthia Wyels has earned one of the nation’s top honors for a math professor.

Wyels recently accepted the Mathematical Association of America’s Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Award for Distinguished College or University Teaching of Mathematics while in Boston.

The award is given each year to three college or university teachers who have been widely recognized as extraordinarily successful and whose teaching effectiveness has had influence beyond their own institutions. Winners receive $1,000 and a certificate of recognition from the MAA.

“I’m stunned and honored,” Wyels said. “It’s provided a wonderful opportunity to look back on my career and recognize how fortunate I’ve been to work with the people I’ve worked with and have had the students I’ve had.”

Wyels, a CI faculty member since 2005, is director of the graduate mathematics program and an avid promoter of undergraduate research opportunities for underrepresented students. Through her summer undergraduate research programs, she has mentored and encouraged 67 students – more than half of them minorities – to pursue higher education and careers in mathematics.

Wyels has also earned a reputation for transforming unsuspecting students into mathematicians.

Michael Nava, a first-generation college student, planned to become a high school teacher before he met Wyels in 2007. Today, he is a Ph.D. candidate in UCSB’s Applied Probability and Statistics department.

“Dr. Wyels changed my career outlook and opened the door of opportunity for me,” Nava said. “She made CI a home for me which was at first a strange and foreign place for a first-generation college student. Her guidance gave me the confidence and abilities to apply and compete in graduate school.”

Wyels developed her appreciation for math as an undergraduate at Pomona College, after realizing that “the challenge of mathematics made the payoff greater.” She then embraced the challenge of getting others to love – or at least not fear – math. After earning her Ph.D. from UCSB, she held positions at the United States Military Academy and Weber State University before spending nine years at California Lutheran University.

Her interest in broadening access to higher education led her to CSU Channel Islands in 2005. Over the years, she has focused increased efforts on supporting students from low-income, first-generation and historically underrepresented groups.

Wyels was asked to speak at the MAA awards ceremony about the importance of undergraduate research opportunities. She told the group that more educators need to focus additional research efforts on the “overlooked” students.

“My message is give the other kids the opportunity – the kids who are in the back of the class, who may be first-generation college students, non-native English speakers or community college transfers,” Wyels said. “If you look beyond the ones you traditionally invite to do research, you’ll find students with a lot of potential. You’ll provide them with life-changing opportunities they wouldn’t have dreamed of, but that they’re definitely capable of.”

For more information on the MAA’s Haimo Award, visit http://maa.org/news/jmm2012awards/haimo.html#Wyels.

For additional information contact Dr. Wyels at 805-437-3260 or cynthia.wyels@csuci.edu.

About California State University Channel Islands
CSU Channel Islands (CI) is the only four-year, public university in Ventura County and is known for its interdisciplinary, multicultural and international perspectives, and its emphasis on experiential and service learning. CI’s strong academic programs focus on business, sciences, liberal studies, teaching credentials, and innovative master’s degrees. Students benefit from individual attention, up-to-date technology, and classroom instruction augmented by outstanding faculty research.

VENTURA, CA - Youth advocacy group Straight Up Ventura County has announced its 2012 video contest, open to young people 12-25, around the topics of making a difference among peers, educators and parents.

"We're looking for young people to explore topics such as how to create 'positive' peer pressure. what activities can bring awareness to destructive decisions, or people that have been an inspiration for making positive decisions around alcohol or drugs," says Katherine Kasmir, Program Director of Straight Up. "We look to the youth in our community to help make social change."

Straight Up focuses on prevention surrounding underage and binge drinking, over-the-counter/prescription drug abuse, marijuana use, and impaired driving.

Last year's contest, "The Power of Speaking Up," garnered submissions from all over Ventura County. They can be seen at straightupvc.org/contest_2011.

Short videos (30-90 seconds) are preferred, but longer videos are welcome as well. The subject matter and tone can be serious or humorous, as longs as the video deals with the powering of speaking up.

A grand prize of $500 will be awarded. The deadline is March 9, 2012 and winners notified by April 20.

Downloadable rules and guidelines can be found at www.straightupvc.org/contest. Resources are available to youth and to educators in the form of educational workshops and equipment lending.

Interested parties can find out more information by contacting contest@straightupvc.org or (805) 647-4622.

About Straight Up Ventura County
Straight Up is a youth development project that promotes social change regarding underage and binge drinking, impaired driving, and OTC/Rx drug and marijuana use using improvisation and interactive performance and workshops with engaging discussion, exploration of issues, and the development of personal and community solutions to these problems.

Straight Up is made possible through funding from Ventura County Behavioral Health Department Prevention Services, Alcohol and Drug Programs. www.straightupvc.org

"Mother Ginger" (Chantee Santiago) and four of the Gingerbread Children.
Enlarge Photo

It is that time of year when many productions of The Nutcracker Ballet are presented throughout the world both professionally and in schools by aspiring dancers. What is seen on stage today is different in detail from the original story, however, the basic plot remains the same. The Nutcracker Ballet is based on the story “The Nutcracker and the King of Mice” written by E.T.A. Hoffman. The story is of a young German girl who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince and a fierce battle against a Mouse King with seven heads.

I must say I have many fond memories of my daughter Julia performing in Nutcracker Ballet productions during the ten, or so years, she was a student of Jill Johnson at her Jill Johnson's Dance Studio in Santa Paula. I even played Drosselmeyer, the clock and toy maker, in one production at the urging of Julia! So when my wife Carolyn called me today and excitedly told me that Fillmore's own Chantee (Campos) Santiago, another student of Jill Johnson, had produced The Nutcracker Ballet at Mountain Vista Elementary School in Fillmore, and that there would be a 10:30 am performance (in about 20 minutes), and could I come and not only watch it but write an article for the Fillmore Gazette I could hardly resist the offer!

Chantee (Campos) Santiago is the Program Director for “Bridges” an after school program offered at no cost to approximately one hundred Kinder-5th Grade students of Mountain Vista Elementary School. Mrs. Santiago told me that the program provides instruction in physical education, art and dancing to these students in the after school program. Well of course dance! Chantee was a serious dancer herself for about ten years with Jill Johnson's Dance Studio and participated in many of The Nutcracker Ballet productions.

Mrs. Santiago said that for approximately three and one half months thirty-five of the Bridges students have been working hard on this production of The Nutcracker Ballet. She also told me that all Mountain Vista students, while in the First Grade, see The Nutcracker Ballet performed in Oxnard at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center and all are familiar with the story line. Assisting Mrs. Santiago were her staff Nicole Acosta, Brittany Holmes, Thalia Alcaraz, Kayla Costa and Kianna Tarango. Sheila Campos, Chantee's mother, made all the set props and costumes worn by the performers.

In the back of the audience I saw a smiling familiar face, Joe Campos, Chantee's father. In a conversation I had with with him we both said we become emotional when we think back to all the performances of The Nutcracker Ballet we attended for our daughters over the years. Watching this production of The Nutcracker Ballet also made me think how important exposing young children to the arts are for their futures as adults. Watching Chantee guide these young minds through dancing just brought it full circle for me! Great job Chantee for your leadership and to all of your staff and the young performers who truly did The Nutcracker Ballet proud!

Camarillo, CA. — Spc. Michael DiRaimondo of Simi Valley enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2001, at age 19, to serve his country and receive the training he would need to achieve his goal of becoming a firefighter paramedic once his commitment ended. That dream ended on Jan. 8, 2004, when the medic helicopter he was riding in was shot out of the sky above Falloujah, Iraq, killing DiRaimondo and eight other U.S. troops.

To honor their son, his parents, Tony and Carol DiRaimondo, established an annual $10,000 scholarship at the Ventura County Community Foundation to help others achieve their goal of becoming paramedics.

"We conceived the idea within a day of his death. I said to the family, 'Let's have donations for the Michael DiRaimondo Fund,'" said Tony DiRaimondo, Michael's father. "We thought to establish a scholarship so a passion he loved would continue his legacy. We simply wanted to give to someone who held Michael's passion."

The DiRaimondo Family raised $250,000 for the Michael A. DiRaimondo Foundation Scholarship. The DiRaimondos wanted the award to be large enough to assist an aspiring paramedic to the completion of training.

The awards started in 2004, but last year and thus far in the 2012-2013 scholarship application period, no applicants have emerged.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for paramedics will increase in the next five to 10 years. With this growing need, the DiRaimondos hope to continue to give financial assistance to those pursuing the paramedic profession.

"You don't have to be the top of your class by any means," Tony DiRaimondo said. "Just let us know who you are and why you want to be a paramedic. We're looking for someone who embodies Michael's passion for helping others as a paramedic."

Applicants must show financial need, hold an EMT Certificate with plans to become a paramedic and currently live in Ventura, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange or San Diego counties — with preference given to Ventura County residents.

To apply to the Michael A. DiRaimondo Foundation Scholarship, visit www.vccf.org/scholarship to read guidelines, register and apply. The scholarship application requires letters of recommendation so students are strongly urged to plan ahead. Online registration must be completed by 5 p.m. Jan. 4. Applicants have until 5 p.m. Jan. 6 to deliver their hard-copy application packets to VCCF offices, 1317 Del Norte Road, Suite 150, Camarillo, CA 93010.

For more information, contact LaToya Ford, program associate and grants manager, (805) 988-0196, Ext. 126, or email LFord@vccf.org.

ABOUT VCCF
VCCF invests the charitable capital that drives the philanthropic engines of Ventura County. Its portfolio performance ranks in the top 10 of all community foundations in the United States for long-term growth. With total assets of $97.7 million, its mission is to promote and enable philanthropy to improve our community for good for ever, which it does through grantmaking, scholarships and training at its Center for Nonprofit Leadership. Visit vccf.org or call (805) 988-0196.

FUSD Alternative Governance Board Special Meeting December 13, 2011

FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2011
5:30 P.M. – CLOSED SESSION
6:30 P.M. SPECIAL MEETING
627 SESPE AVENUE, FILLMORE, CALIFORNIA

AGENDA
5:30 p.m.
A. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
B. ROLL CALL
C. PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION AND NONAGENDA ITEMS,
PETITIONS
This is the time and place to address the Board. State law prohibits the Board from acting on issues not included on the agenda; however, requests may be made for discussion of specific topics at subsequent meetings. Upon recognition by the President of the Board, please come forward and identify yourself before speaking. The Board of Education reserves the right to limit speaking time to three (3) minutes or less per individual.
D. CLOSED SESSION
The Board of Education will meet from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. to consider matters appropriate for Closed Session in accordance with Government Code Sections 3549.1, 54956.7 through 54957.7 and Education Code Section 35146. If the Board does not complete Closed Session discussions at this time, the Board may adjourn to Closed Session at the end of the special meeting. DISCLOSURE OF ITEM(S) TO BE DISCUSSED IN CLOSED SESSION Labor/Negotiations (Government Code 54957.6)
o Update; Direction to District Negotiators (Dr. Alan Nishino, Dr. Michael Bush, Todd Schieferle, Margaret Chidester) for negotiations with the Fillmore Unified Teachers Association (FUTA), the California School Employees Association (CSEA), Confidential Employees, and District Administration. Personnel Matters (Government Code 54957)
o Hiring, Evaluating, Discipline, Dismissal, Release, Reassignment, Transfers Public Employee Performance Evaluation: Superintendent (The Board and
Superintendent meet periodically to provide feedback to one another concerning
the achievement of goals.)
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the Superintendent's Office at (805) 524-6038. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the district to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. [In accordance with Government Code 54961 and Board Bylaw 9320(a).]

6:30 p.m.
E. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION Any Action From Closed Session
F. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
G. PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS AND NONAGENDA ITEMS, PETITIONS
This is the time and place to address the school board. State law prohibits the Board from acting on issues not included on the agenda; however, requests may be made for discussion of specific topics at subsequent meetings. Upon recognition by the President of the Board, please come forward and identify yourself before speaking. The Board of Education reserves the right to limit speaking time to three (3) minutes or less per individual.
H. ACTION
1. Approve Findings and Recommendations from the Alternative Governance Board (Materials will be provided)
I. FUTURE MEETINGS
January 17 5:30 p.m. Closed Session – Board Room
6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting – Board Room
February 7 5:30 p.m. Closed Session – Board Room
6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting – Board Room
March 6 5:30 p.m. Closed Session – Board Room
6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting – Board Room
March 20 5:30 p.m. Closed Session – Board Room
6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting – Board Room
J. BOARD CLOSING COMMENTS AND AGENDA BUILDING
K. ADJOURNMENT

FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE ALTERNATIVE GOVERNANCE BOARD
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2011
5:30 P.M. SPECIAL MEETING
627 SESPE AVENUE, FILLMORE, CALIFORNIA
ROOM 36

AGENDA
The public may review or request a copy of support materials provided to the Board Members where the word materials appears.
5:30 p.m.
A. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
B. ROLL CALL
C. PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION AND NONAGENDA ITEMS,
PETITIONS
This is the time and place to address the Board. State law prohibits the Board from acting on issues not included on the agenda; however, requests may be made for discussion of specific topics at subsequent meetings. Upon recognition by the President of the Board, please come forward and identify yourself before speaking. The Alternative Governance Board reserves the right to limit speaking time to three (3) minutes or less per individual.
D. ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING Election of Officers
1) President (Call for nomination, second and election of Alternative Governance Board President)
2) Vice President (The new President calls for nomination, second and election of Vice President.)
3) Clerk (The new President calls for nomination, second and election of Clerk.)
E. ACTION
1. Approve Recommendation to Review and Accept Findings and Recommendations (Materials will be provided)
a. Fillmore Middle School
b. San Cayetano Elementary School
c. Piru Elementary School
2. Approve to Recommend Findings and Recommendations Report to Fillmore Unified School District Board of Education
a. Fillmore Middle School
b. San Cayetano Elementary School
c. Piru Elementary School
3. Approve Future Meetings
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the Superintendent's Office at (805) 524-6038. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the district to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. [In accordance with Government Code 54961 and Board Bylaw 9320(a).]
F. ALTERNATIVE GOVERNANCE BOARD CLOSING COMMENTS AND AGENDA BUILDING
G. ADJOURNMENT

When ASB isn’t working on an event of some sort, the organization is working on internal improvement- what better way to enrich the FHS campus then to improve those responsible for its enrichment? On December 1st, ASB hosted its own convention, inviting Santa Paula’s high school ASB to come and share ideas, and grow from the teachings of a special leadership speaker, Richard Parkhouse.

The first part of the convention kicked off with a fantastic lecture from aforementioned Mr. Parkhouse himself, and his message proved effective as students left with inspiration and the desire to make their school better not only for themselves, but for the entire student body. Parkhouse emphasized just how many students don’t feel welcome at their own school, a pressing issue manifesting across the country with the growing trend of heartrending suicides and shootings such as the Columbine High massacre. An alarming 50% of students don’t feel like a part of their school according to a country-wide study, and Mr. Parkhouse made us realize how this is a problem that has gone unaddressed for far too long. Overall, his message of understanding and putting oneself in other people’s shoes was a success, and hopefully made a great enough impression on the students present that they will want to “change lives and impact futures” as much as Richard Parkhouse.

The rest of the convention was a rotating system of sharing ideas and practices used in Fillmore and Santa Paula ASB’s. When a song was played on the speakers, groups of students from both schools would move from table to table, each table headed by 1-2 Fillmore ASB members who were in charge of a specific job or activity. They would present Fillmore’s way of going about the activity, then listen to the other students from Santa Paula share how they did the same activity differently at their school. The exchange of techniques turned out to be a great way to bring the schools together and learn countless new ways to improve FHS into the campus we know it can be, not just in an aesthetic sense, but to make Fillmore a school kids can really feel like they’re a part of.

THOUSAND OAKS, CA - The U.S. Department of Education has awarded California Lutheran University a $1.2 million grant to prepare teachers of students who are deaf and hard of hearing.

Beginning in January, the grant will enable CLU’s Graduate School of Education to prepare 48 new credentialed teachers for deaf and hard-of-hearing students in California public schools over the next five years. This high-need student population is increasing dramatically, with a 26 percent jump in the state’s number of students with hearing loss between 2005 and 2011, and there is a shortage of teachers prepared to work with them.

CLU launched its program at the Woodland Hills Center in 2007. Candidates earn a preliminary education specialist credential and master’s degree in education of the deaf and hard of hearing.

One of the new project’s goals is to reduce the large achievement gap between hearing students and those with hearing loss, especially those from Latino families. Nearly 55 percent of deaf and hard-of-hearing students in California are from Latino homes. In Los Angeles County, where the CLU program is based, 78 percent of hearing-impaired students are from homes where Spanish is spoken. Educators are finding that deaf and hard-of-hearing children from Spanish-speaking homes need greater help in learning English language and reading.

As part of CLU’s program, teacher candidates provide free one-on-one spoken language instruction to children at No Limits for Deaf Children, a Culver City-based nonprofit organization that serves a large number of Latino students.

Another goal of the project is to prepare teachers to work with the growing number of children with cochlear implants and digital hearing aids whose families request spoken-language programs in general education settings. Several California school districts, including those in Ventura and Los Angeles counties, are starting new programs for students with cochlear implants and are struggling to find qualified teachers. CLU’s program specializes in using evidence-based best practices in this area and is the only one in California that prepares teachers to work with students older than age 6.

Most of the grant money will be used to help pay for tuition and books for the teacher candidates. Recruiting highly qualified bilingual and bicultural scholars to help meet the needs of Latino students will be a priority. Upon completion, aid recipients will be required to complete four years of service in the field.

For more information, contact graduate admissions counselor Andrea Kendrick at kendrick@callutheran.edu.

Fillmore Unified School District

FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2011
5:30 P.M. – CLOSED SESSION
6:30 P.M. - REGULAR MEETING
627 SESPE AVENUE, FILLMORE, CALIFORNIA

AGENDA
The public may review or request a copy of support materials provided to the Board Members where the word materials appears.
5:30 p.m.
A. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
B. ROLL CALL
C. PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION AND NONAGENDA ITEMS, PETITIONS
This is the time and place to address the Board. State law prohibits the Board from acting on issues not included on the agenda; however, requests may be made for discussion of specific topics at subsequent meetings. Upon recognition by the President of the Board, please come forward and identify yourself before speaking. The Board of Education reserves the right to limit speaking time to three (3) minutes or less per individual.
D. CLOSED SESSION
The Board of Education will meet from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. to consider matters appropriate for Closed Session in accordance with Government Code Sections 3549.1, 54956.7 through 54957.7 and Education Code Section 35146. If the Board does not complete Closed Session discussions at this time, the Board may adjourn to Closed Session at the end of the regular meeting. DISCLOSURE OF ITEM(S) TO BE DISCUSSED IN CLOSED SESSION School District Pupils (Education Code 35146)
o Expulsion Case Number 11-12-04
o Consideration of Recommendation for Readmission of Students Who Have Completed Term of Expulsion Labor/Negotiations (Government Code 54957.6)
o Update; Direction to District Negotiators (Dr. Alan Nishino, Dr. Michael Bush, Todd Schieferle, Margaret Chidester) for negotiations with the Fillmore Unified Teachers Association (FUTA), the California School Employees Association (CSEA), Confidential Employees, and District Administration. Personnel Matters (Government Code 54957)
o Hiring, Evaluating, Discipline, Dismissal, Release, Reassignment, Transfers Public Employee Performance Evaluation: Superintendent (The Board and Superintendent meet periodically to provide feedback to one another concerning the achievement of goals.)
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the Superintendent's Office at (805) 524-6038. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the district to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. [In accordance with Government Code 54961 and Board Bylaw 9320(a).]

6:30 p.m.
E. RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION Any Action From Closed Session
F. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
G. PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS AND NONAGENDA ITEMS, PETITIONS
This is the time and place to address the school board. State law prohibits the Board from acting on issues not included on the agenda; however, requests may be made for discussion of specific topics at subsequent meetings. Upon recognition by the President of the Board, please come forward and identify yourself before speaking. The Board of Education reserves the right to limit speaking time to three (3) minutes or less per individual.
H. ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING (Materials) Appointment of Chairman Pro Tem
The Board President appoints the Superintendent to serve as chairperson Pro Tem until the President is elected.
Election of Officers
1) President (The Superintendent calls for nomination, second and election of Board President.)
2) Vice President (The new Board President calls for nomination, second and election of Vice President.)
3) Clerk (The new Board President calls for nomination, second and election of Clerk.)
Setting of Date, Time and Place for Regular Monthly Meetings
Regular monthly meetings are currently held on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the Board Room of the District Administration Building. Special meetings and study sessions are called as necessary.
Selection of School Board Representative on County Committee
(One representative, Lucy Rangel, Four year term from 12/07/10 called for by Board President). In compliance with Education Code Sections 35023 and 72403 it is necessary to select a member of the Board of Education as the Board representative to vote in the election for members of the County Committee on School District Organization. The representative shall have one vote for each member to be elected to the committee at its annual meeting (E.C. 4293.)
Appointment of Ex-Officio Clerk and/or Secretary (Called for by Board President)
Appoint Dr. Alan Nishino, District Superintendent, to serve as ex-officio clerk
and/or Secretary of the Board of Education, and to authorize Dr. Michael Bush, Assistant Superintendent, Business Services to serve as ex-officio clerk and/or secretary in the absence of Dr. Nishino.
Appointment to Vision 2020 Steering Committee (Two representatives and one alternate, One year term from 12/06/11 called for by Board President)
Appointment to Agricultural Advisory Committee (One representative, one year term from 12/06/11 called for by Board President)
6:45 p.m.
I. COMMUNICATIONS Student Representative’s Report Superintendent’s Report
7:00 p.m.
J. CONSENT ITEMS (Materials: Corresponding to numbers 1-3)
Items on the Consent Agenda are considered routine and will be enacted by a single motion. None of the items will be discussed unless a Board Member or member of the audience requests discussion.
1. Approve Personnel Order 11-12-8
2. Donations
3. Contracts
K. ACTION
4. Approve Request for Overnight Field Trip From Joe Ricards for Students to Attend the California FFA and State Ag. Staff Developed “Made for Excellence and Advanced Leadership Conference” on January 26 and 28, 2012 in Monterey, CA (Materials)
5. Approve Request for Overnight Field Trip From Kimberly Tafoya for Cross Country Team to Attend Clovis International on November 25-26, 2011 in Fresno, CA (Materials)
6. Approve Revised Job Description for Shipping and Receiving Clerk (Materials)
7. Approve Job Description for Food Service Worker Prep-Chef (Materials)
8. Approve Site Plan (Materials previously provided) Fillmore Middle School
9. Approve Certification of Signatures (Materials)
10. Approve 1st Interim Budget Report (Materials upon request)
11. Approve Adoption of Resolution Number 11-12-06 Authorizing an Increase to Maximum Amount of Borrowing of Funds for Fiscal Year 2011-2012 and Authorizing the Issuance and Sale of an Additional Series of 2011-2012 Tax and Revenue Anticipation Notes Through the California School Cash Reserve Program and Requesting the Board of Supervisors of the County to Issue and Sell Said Series of Additional Notes (Materials)
7:45 p.m.
L. INFORMATION/DISCUSSION
12. Essential Standards Committee; Report Card Task Force – Jan Marholin
8:15 p.m.
M. FUTURE MEETINGS
January 17 5:30 p.m. Closed Session – Board Room
6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting – Board Room
February 7 5:30 p.m. Closed Session – Board Room
6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting – Board Room
March 6 5:30 p.m. Closed Session – Board Room
6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting – Board Room
March 20 5:30 p.m. Closed Session – Board Room
6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting – Board Room
N. BOARD CLOSING COMMENTS AND AGENDA BUILDING
8:30 p.m.
O. ADJOURNMENT

Camarillo, CA - CSU Channel Islands (CI) has partnered with The GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles to offer a one-of-a-kind course called The Music Museum. The upper-level general education class gives students the opportunity to learn first-hand how a music museum is run and curated.

Developed and led by economics professor Dennis Muraoka and music professor Ted Lucas, The Music Museum is one of several classes, such as The Zoo, The National Park, The Library and The University, where CI has partnered with a social institution to offer students a unique, hands-on learning experience.

“It not only exposes the students to different types of careers in music and the museum, but also completely alters the way they experience any type of museum,” Muraoka said. “They previously knew these organizations only as visitors. Now they’re critics and they see them in a different light.”

Students meet weekly at The GRAMMY Museum to learn from museum experts about subjects ranging from management, operations and exhibit design to membership, public relations and marketing. Papers and projects for the course focus on analyzing and developing exhibits and events. The students also have attended performances and interviews of music industry luminaries during evening programs at the museum.

“This course provided us with an amazing experience that isn’t offered anywhere else,” said Dinora Lopez, a senior business major. “Because we got to talk to every department first-hand, we learned how everything comes together to run a successful business. I can see what we have learned to be applicable to any of our future business experiences.”

The partnership has yielded more than learning opportunities. In October, The GRAMMY Museum installed an exhibit on the Latin GRAMMYs in CI’s John Spoor Broome Library. Muraoka and William P. Cordeiro, Associate Vice President and Director of the Martin V. Smith School of Business & Economics, also are assisting the museum in its strategic planning.

“We are committed to our educational mission and The Music Museum course embodies that mission to the highest degree,” said Rita George, Director of Facilities and Operations at The GRAMMY Museum. “Working with CSU Channel Islands has been a great experience for our staff, and we hope that the students are able to put what they’ve learned to use in their future careers.”

The students’ final project focuses on jazz legend and GRAMMY Award winner Charlie Parker, who was once a resident at Camarillo State Hospital. Parker’s six months at the mental institution inspired the song “Relaxin’ At Camarillo” in 1947. On Wednesday, Dec. 7, the students will present proposals for a Parker exhibit at The GRAMMY Museum or the Broome Library to museum staff and professors.

For additional information, contact Professor Dennis Muraoka at 805-437-8861 or dennis.muraoka@csuci.edu.

For additional information on The GRAMMY Museum, visit www.grammymuseum.org or contact Andie Cox at 213-763-2133 or acox@grammymuseum.org.

About California State University Channel Islands
CSU Channel Islands (CI) is the only four-year, public university in Ventura County and is known for its interdisciplinary, multicultural and international perspectives, and its emphasis on experiential and service learning. CI’s strong academic programs focus on business, sciences, liberal studies, teaching credentials, and innovative master’s degrees. Students benefit from individual attention, up-to-date technology, and classroom instruction augmented by outstanding faculty research.

The English Language Advisory Council (ELAC) hosted their second parent workshop on November 17th. The theme of this workshop was “Self Esteem and Your Child.” The workshop was conducted by Linda Arroyo from Triple P. The workshop was the second offered to Sespe parents.

The presenter discussed the importance of building self-esteem in children so that they feel confident and comfortable. She added that it is crucial that children feel like someone is listening to their concerns and needs.

Ms. Arroyo discussed some of the causes of low self-esteem which include: When children are not frequently praised; when parents are critical of their child (academics, sports, etc.); When children are compared to their siblings or other children; When children see physical or emotional violence in the home.

She then discussed a number of ways parents can help build self-esteem in their children. One way is to recognize that all children and individuals are different so it is important to recognize the individual strengths of each child. It is also important to tell your child that you care about them every day. It is crucial also to set aside a time everyday that is devoted to your child when all other distractions are removed, regardless of how busy the day is. It is also vital that parents help their children develop positive friendships and model this as well. Children should also be allowed to make their own decisions when appropriate (choosing outfits, meals, etc.) Finally, it is crucial to avoid solving all of your child’s problems, rather offer them support and tell them that everything will be ok.

The next ELAC parent workshop will take place on Thursday, January 19th at 8:30 am in the Sespe Cafeteria. Parents from all school and community members are welcome to attend.

Sespe would like to thank Gisela Gutierrez for helping Sespe secure a $1000 grant from the Scripps Howard Foundation. Thank you Gisela for going out of your way to help Sespe School. We plan on using the grant to purchase much needed instructional supplies for classrooms and some new playground equipment for our students. Thanks again Gisela!