VENTURA COUNTY, Calif. (July 26, 2023) — Ventura County Credit Union is proud to announce it has awarded its inaugural First in Family Scholarship to Rayleen Meza, a Santa Paula High School senior who will be attending California State University Channel Islands as a nursing major in the fall, making her the first person in her family to pursue a college education. The scholarship, which is worth $24,000 distributed over four years, will help cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, supplies and other expenses.

Rayleen graduated high school with a 4.8 grade point average, having completed 14 dual-enrollment courses, which allowed her to simultaneously earn credits at the high school and college level. She attended Santa Paula High School’s Human Services Academy, enabling her to explore career options in the fields of health, education and human services. Rayleen also completed more than 40 hours of community involvement and four internships in the medical field, including through the Health Occupations Pipeline Education (HOPE) administered by the Ventura County Health Care Agency. Her internship experience at Santa Paula Medical Clinic helped her discover a passion for pediatric nursing, which she intends to pursue as a career after college. Due to her participation in the Regional Occupational Program in high school, Rayleen became a certified medical assistant in June.

As a first-generation college student, Rayleen said her parents had little to no information regarding the cost of higher education and this scholarship removes an immense weight from their shoulders as she works toward a degree to enter the medical field.

“I would do anything just to be a nurse,” Rayleen said in her application video. “Once I become a registered nurse, I plan to also go to school to become a nurse practitioner, and hopefully, one day open a clinic and be able to help all those around my community, to share my knowledge and be there for them because I know as a small community, everyone needs someone they can rely on and I would love to be that leader.”

Rayleen said the VCCU scholarship was “an honor.”

This is the first year VCCU has provided this scholarship opportunity, which was available to graduating high school seniors with acceptance into CSUCI. The scholarship was designed to help Ventura County students with modest means who would be the first in their family to attend a four-year university. This VCCU scholarship will be awarded on a bi-annual basis moving forward. The winner will receive $6,000 each year for four scholastic years.

“College affordability is often what prevents a deserving student from attending college,” said Linda Rossi, VCCU president/CEO. “We’re proud to help a student be the first in their family to attend our local Cal State University.”

For more information about VCCU and its services, visit http://www.vccuonline.net.

About Ventura County Credit Union
Ventura County Credit Union was chartered in 1950. It is the largest credit union headquartered in Ventura County, with eight offices, more than 80,000 members and more than $1 billion in total assets. VCCU offers a complete line of loans, federally insured savings, 24-hour electronic access services and more. Call 1-800-339-0496 or visit http://www.vccuonline.net for more information.

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For years Fillmore and Piru Middle school students have taken a trip to Washington D.C. and this year is the 30th anniversary trip. Students can apply for the Washington DC/Philadelphia trip scholarship beginning August 20th. Any Fillmore/Piru area student, grades 7-11, during the fall 2023 school semester, are eligible. Above is a group photo of students who attended the trip back in 2015. Scan the QR Code to apply and a GoFundMe Page has been set-up for scholarship donations. There are more details in the article below.
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This is not a school sponsored trip anymore and is it privately fundraised. Students can apply for scholarships using the information; and folks who would like to make a donation can do so by using the GoFundMe information mentioned below. So please help us get the word out!

Please complete the form (link/QR code) to apply for the Washington DC/Philadelphia trip scholarship. Any Fillmore/Piru area student grades 7-11 during the fall 2023 school semester may apply. All applications will be scored anonymously on a rubric to determine the scholarship recipient. The winning recipient will have their trip cost covered by our scholarship. Please check with your parents/guardians that you may attend the trip on the trip dates, October 6-10, 2023, before you apply.

Take a screenshot of your answers before you submit, so you have a copy as well. We are still accepting donations at our GoFundMe page to try and fundraise for another trip as well. If you’d like to donate, please go to our GoFundMe Page Fundraiser, submitted by Jennifer Beal: Fillmore-Piru Washington DC Trip Scholarship (gofundme.com). Any questions? Please email fillmorefreedomfliers@ gmail.com.

You must complete the application, save and
submit it by Sunday, August 20, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. for your application to be considered. Use the application link address or QR code to access the application. https://forms.office.com/r/WRemsqnrXV.

Pictured above are seven student workers who have been assisting the custodial staff at FHS this past summer as part of the Fillmore Unified School District’s Student Worker Program. More than 50 student workers are earning money and gaining work experience. Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2023/7/18/fillmore-unified-school-district-summer-student-worker-program.
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More than 50 students are earning money and gaining work experience this summer across multiple Fillmore Unified School District departments including Grounds, Maintenance, Technology, Food Services, Custodial, Clerical, and at the School Farm. The program pays students minimum wage while gaining real-world experience and the chance to develop essential skills that extend beyond the classroom. They are learning practical knowledge, time management, and interpersonal skills that enhance their employability and readiness for future careers. Additionally, working within the school district fosters a sense of responsibility and ownership in their educational environment, instilling a deeper appreciation for the value of education and community involvement.

HELP WANTED – House cleaning person for private home. Eight hours a week between M – F from 7:30am – 11:30am and/or 2:30pm – 6:30pm. Well paid. Call 805 – 524 – 9929. (7/13).

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On June 02, 2023, FHS Alumni awarded $68,000 in scholarships to several Fillmore High Seniors. This year’s winners are listed as follows:
Isabella Ramirez - Thomas DeWitt Memorial Scholarship, Class of ‘73 Memorial Scholarship (Attending Cal Lutheran University).
Jack Morris - Thomas DeWitt Memorial Scholarship, FHS Class of ‘78 Memorial Scholarship, Scanlin/Balden Athletic Scholarship. (Attending U.C. Santa Cruz).
Sofia Cardenas - FHS Class of ‘83 Memorial Scholarship (Attending the University of Arizona).
Daniela Bolanos - Thomas DeWitt Memorial Scholarship, FHS Class of ‘93 Memorial Scholarship (Attending Ventura College).
Paola Ruiz De Lara - Thomas DeWitt Memorial Scholarship, FHS Class of ‘98 Memorial Scholarship (Attending U.C. Santa Barbara).
Isabella Zhen - Thomas DeWitt Memorial Scholarship, Fillmore High Alumni Scholarship (Attending U.C. San Diego).
Monique Hurtado - Thomas DeWitt Memorial Scholarship, FHS Class of 2003 Memorial Scholarship, Scanlin/Balden Athletic Scholarship (Attending U.C.L.A.).
Liliana Montejano - Thomas DeWitt Memorial Scholarship, FHS Class of ‘2013 Memorial Scholarship, Scanlin/Balden Athletic Scholarship (Attending U.C. San Diego).
Alanna Garcia - Thomas DeWitt Memorial Scholarship, John Lemley Memorial Scholarship, (Attending U.C.L.A.).
Jovany J. Perez - Thomas DeWitt Memorial Scholarship, Steve and Patricia Baum Memorial Scholarship (Attending U.S.C.).
Ivan Becerra - Fillmore High Alumni Scholarship, Scanlin/Balden Athletic Scholarship (Attending Cal Lutheran University).
Andrea Laureano - Scanlin/Balden Athletic Scholarship (Attending Cal State Northridge).
Mathew Pineda - FHS Class of ‘1971 Memorial Scholarship, Sespe Creek Events, Inc Art Sanchez Memorial Scholarship (Attending Ventura College) ——NOT PICTURED.

Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2...
Dear FUSD Community,
As we wrap up the 2022-23 school year, I extend my deepest gratitude to every person that makes up our amazing FUSD Family. This includes our awesome students, engaged parents, hardworking staff members, and dedicated community members who all continue to do their part to invest in our kids in Fillmore and Piru.
Fillmore Unified is a special place to work, live, and learn. It has always been the people here that truly make this community and school district such a wonderful place to call home. As your Superintendent, proud FHS alumna, and community member, I thank you for the ways you continue to unite around our collective purpose of supporting each student and their future goals.
Our students excel in so many amazing ways, making our entire community immensely proud of their efforts and accomplishments. Last week we celebrated the Class of 2023. Below are just a few of their accolades:
- $483,150 awarded at FHS Senior Scholarship Awards Night
- CA Scholastic Federation (CSF): 36 students
- California State Seal of Biliteracy: 30 students
- Golden State Seal Merit: 42 students
- Valedictorians: 21 students
- Admitted to the University of California (UC) System: 27 students
- Admitted to over 40 different Universities and Colleges
(Twenty different California State Universities, eight UCs, USC, Santa Clara University, and California Lutheran University)
- Bill and Melinda Gates Scholarship Recipient
- Armed Forces: five students
- U.S. Airforce
- U.S. Army
- U.S. Marine Corps
We have had an incredible year, thanks to all of you! For those of you who have a child returning to our district in the fall, we are working hard over the summer to prepare for the 2023-2024 school year. Over the summer we will continue to share information with you about the upcoming school year through Parent Square messages, posts on our website, and social media.
I wish you a very happy and restful summer break. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you, your child, and the Fillmore Unified School District. I look forward to seeing everyone back on August 16 for the First Day of School.
Respectfully,
Christine Schieferle,
Superintendent
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Estimada Comunidad del Distrito Escolar Unificado de Fillmore,
Al concluir el año escolar 2022-23, extiendo mi más profundo agradecimiento a todas las personas que componen nuestra increíble Familia del Distrito Escolar de Fillmore. Esto incluye a nuestros increíbles estudiantes, padres involucrados, el personal escolar que trabaja arduamente y la comunidad que se dedica a continuar haciendo su parte para invertir en nuestros estudiantes en Fillmore y Piru.
El Distrito Escolar Unificado de Fillmore es un lugar especial para trabajar, vivir y aprender. Han sido siempre la gente aquí las que verdaderamente hace de esta comunidad y distrito escolar un lugar tan maravilloso y acogedor. Como su Superintendenta, orgullosa egresada de la Escuela Secundaria de Fillmore y miembra de la comunidad, yo les agradezco la manera en que continúan uniéndose en torno a nuestro propósito colectivo de apoyar a cada estudiante y sus metas futuras.
Nuestros estudiantes sobresalen de muchas maneras asombrosas, lo cual hace que toda nuestra comunidad se sienta inmensamente orgullosa de sus esfuerzos y logros. La semana pasada, celebramos la Clase de los Graduados de 2023. A continuación se muestran solo algunos de sus logros:
- $483,150 otorgados en la noche de Premios de Becas para Estudiantes del Grado 12 de la Escuela Secundaria de Fillmore
- La Federación Escolar de California (CSF) – 36 estudiantes
- Sello de Alfabetización Bilingüe del Estado de California; 30 estudiantes
- Sello de Mérito Golden State – 42 estudiantes
- Valedictorianos (con promedio de calificaciones de 4.0 y mayor) - 21 estudiantes
- Estudiantes aceptados al Sistema de la Universidad de California (UC) – 27 estudiantes
- Estudiantes aceptados en más de 40 universidades y colegios diferentes
(20 universidades estatales de California diferentes, 8 UC, USC, Universidad de Santa Clara y Universidad Luterana de California)
- Beneficiario de la Beca Bill y Melinda Gates
- Fuerzas Armadas – 5 estudiantes
- Fuerza Aérea de EEUU
- Ejército de EEUU
- Cuerpo de los Marines de EEUU
¡Hemos tenido un año increíble gracias a todos ustedes! Para los que tienen un hijo(a) que regresa a nuestro distrito escolar en agosto, estamos trabajando arduamente durante el verano para prepararnos para el año escolar 2023-2024. Durante el verano, continuaremos compartiendo información con usted sobre el próximo año escolar a través de mensajes por medio del app de Parent Square y publicaciones en nuestro sitio web y redes sociales.
Les deseo unas vacaciones de verano muy felices y tranquilas. Gracias por la oportunidad de servirle a usted, a su hijo(a) y al Distrito Escolar Unificado de Fillmore. Espero verlos a todos el 16 de agosto para el Primer Día de Escuela del 2023-2024.
Respetuosamente,
Superintendenta,
Christine Schieferle

Eli Hernandez named Classified Staff of the Year. Photo courtesy https:// www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2023/5/22/eli-hernandezclassified-staff-of-the-year-jdwlz.
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Vicki Murphy named Certified Staff of the Year. Photo courtesy https:// www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2023/5/22/vicki-murphycertificated-staff-of-the-year-6y
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In last week’s Gazette the Fillmore School Board recognized the 2023 Staff & Student Members of the Year. This week we are sharing the bios of the Classified, Certificated, and Administrator of the year along with their bios.

Mr. Valdovinos joined Fillmore Middle School and has truly changed the culture. He has built a team of teacher leaders whose ideas he embraces, he listens to their concerns, and has worked together with them to create a strong team of professionals on campus who are truly committed to empowering and bettering the lives of our students in Fillmore and Piru. The continuous commitment and support that is shown by Mr. Valdovinos is felt by staff on campus. This is evidenced by the smiling faces, the volunteering to participate in events and activities, and the positive climate on campus. Mr. Valdovinos is seen at community events, building relationships with local business owners to support our students, connecting with students during lunch and during passing periods, and welcoming families to join our team at the middle school to build an even stronger support system for our students. Our students continuously thank him for being there, enjoy the time and care he gives them in talking with them about their activities, and truly light up upon seeing him and knowing that their principal is so supportive.

Eli is a fun and energetic Roadrunner! He is positive, has a can-do attitude, and goes above and beyond in the workplace. When he is asked to help out or attend to a task, he does it without hesitation and is quick to help others. Eli takes the initiative and fixes any problem he sees. He does not walk by a problem and ignore it; he either takes care of the problem or gets the information to the appropriate staff so that they can take care of it. He works hard and puts in the extra effort/time to ensure Rio Vista School is clean and a safe

GARAGE SALE - 1411 Goodenough Rd. Sleeper sofa, oak dinette, air conditioner, dishes, tools, tile saw, yard furniture, camping equipment, Christmas decorations, misc. tile, lots of nails, old automotive lights Sat. 3 9am-5pm. (6/1)

Alanna exemplifies all areas of Fillmore High School - Academics, Arts, Athletics, and Activities. She pursued and excelled in the most rigorous course of study. This is evidenced by her taking ten college courses at two different community colleges and four Advanced Placement courses, all while maintaining a 4.50 GPA. Alanna thrives in her role as a school leader. She is Senior Class President, a Pep Squad Captain for four years, FFA Chapter President and Regional Vice President, and has held many other leadership positions during her high school career. Her involvement and sense of service has won the respect of teachers, community members and fellow students. C.S. Lewis said, “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” Alanna epitomizes this statement. Out of all the students’ staff has worked with, Alanna stands out among them as someone who has high integrity and ethics. Her teachers describe her as ambitious, sociable, passionate, and a natural leader. This fall, Alanna will attend UCLA and double major in Psychology and Communications.

GARAGE SALE - 1411 Goodenough Rd, Fillmore. Sleigh beds, refrigerator, sleeper sofa, oak dinette, hutch, chest of drawers, tile saw, tools, dishes, yard furniture, camping equipment, Christmas stuff, miscellaneous. Saturday & Sunday, 9am - 5pm. (5/25)

Sofia is a true standout at Sierra High School, having earned nearly every award the school has to offer. She is a member of ASB and a school leader, having organized Senior Sunset, serving as a DJ for the campus, and just recently coordinated a Mother’s Day event to celebrate all women at SHS. Despite being a star student in all her classes, she isn’t afraid to seek extra help in math, often arriving early for tutoring sessions to improve her skills. Her impressive list of accolades includes the PRIDE award, which recognizes students who demonstrate positive attitudes, respect, integrity, determination, and excellence. She has also received the Responsibility Award for never being tardy, as well as awards for Citizenship, Service Appreciation, and Academic Excellence. Sofia is known for her kind and compassionate nature; she never hesitates to lend a listening ear or a helping hand to anyone in need. Many students seek her out for counseling and emotional support, and she always makes time to be there for them. Sophia is attending Ventura College in the fall and plans to become an ultrasound technician.