"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!

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

After a three month investigation by the Camarillo Detective Bureau, Kathryn Rachel Gonzales was arrested for embezzling approximately $50,000 from the Pleasant Valley Cooperative Pre-School, located in Camarillo. The embezzlement was discovered when a new treasurer took over for Gonzales. The new treasurer noticed numerous discrepancies on the school financial records that were previously maintained by Gonzales.

Gonzales volunteered as a treasurer from June 2007 through June 2011. During her term as treasurer, Gonzales began to surreptitiously withdraw money of various amounts from the school’s bank accounts. An internal audit by the school determined Gonzales embezzled approximately $50,000.

On November 16, 2011, Gonzales turned herself in to the Camarillo Police Department. She was booked at the Ventura County Main Jail for grand theft by embezzlement. Her bail was set at $10,000.

Nature of Incident: Grand Theft By Embezzlement
Report Number: 11-22058
Location: Pleasant Valley Cooperative Pre-School
1605 E. Burnley St., Camarillo
Date & Time: From June 2007 through June 2011
Unit Responsible: Camarillo Detective Bureau
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (W)itnesses (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
(A) Kathryn Rachel Gonzales
Camarillo
31
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Detective Marty Luna (805) 388-5116
Media Release Date: November 16, 2011
Follow-Up Contact: Detective Shawn Pewsey (805) 388-5149
Approved by: Captain Bruce Macedo

Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

Bill Herrera shared how we can be good citizens to help our school and community at the Character Counts assembly last week.
Enlarge Photo

On Monday, November 7, 2011, San Cayetano School recognized good citizenship and character at their Peacebuilder Assembly for the month of November. Bill Herrera from State Farm Insurance, came to speak to the students about what a good citizen is and how respecting others is important. He shared how we can be good citizens to help our school and community. Each teacher chose a student from his or her class whom showed excellent character and respect during the month. Hailey Avila and Bryan Arnett, the San Cayetano ASB President and Vice-President assisted Bill in handing out the Peacebuilder Awards. The Peacebuilders for November are: Aryanne Muñoz, Jorge Velasquez, Nick Tejeda, Jesus Salgado, Rosalyn Duran, Philip Valenzuela, Marlene Cruz, Austin Gunter, Diana Razo, Isabela Regalado, Taiz Razo, Zoe Avila, Emma Ocegueda, Adriana Almanza, Ethan Gomez, Angela Tejada, Ashley Alvarez, James Chandler, and Makaila Gojkavich. Bill Herrera then announced the San Cayetano Character Counts Award of a $100.00 savings bond sponsored by the John Paul Pet Foundation. Bill Herrera presented the Character Counts Award to a deserving third-grade student. Ruby Baez was chosen by the third-grade teachers as a model of kindness and respectfulness to the other students and school community. To conclude the assembly, students were reminded to turn in their Perfect Attendance tickets. Each month all students who come to school, each day, on time, are given a raffle ticket. The students place their tickets in a box and one ticket is drawn. The student whose ticket is drawn is given a NASA backpack with the book Max Goes to the Moon in it. Each month, the tickets will be put into a larger box that will be kept until the end of the year. In June, Mrs. Marholin, the principal, will draw from the tickets to give away two new bicycles.

Fillmore Unified School District

FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2011
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 Labor/Negotiations (Government Code 54957.6)
o Update; Direction to District Negotiators (Alan Nishino, Mike 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. PRESENTATION: FFA National Leadership Convention Held in Indianapolis, IN
H. 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.
I. PUBLIC HEARING AND ACTION ON INITIAL PROPOSALS FOR BARGAINING OF CSEA AND FUSD
1. Public Hearing on Initial Proposal of the California School Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 421 for Successor Contract Commencing July 1, 2012 (Materials)
2. Board Action to Receive Initial Proposal of the Fillmore California School
Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 421 for a Successor Contract Commencing July 1, 2012
6:45 p.m.
J. COMMUNICATIONS Student Representative’s Report Superintendent’s Report
7:00 p.m.
K. CONSENT ITEMS (Materials: Corresponding to numbers 3-10)
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: Regular Board Meeting Held November 1, 2011
4. Approve Personnel Order 11-12-7
5. Ratify Accounts Payable Month of October 2011 (ReqPay12a)
6. Ratify Purchase Orders Month of October 2011 (ReqPay11a)
7. Ratify 10/01/11 through 10/31/11Certificated and Classified Payroll in the
Amount of $1,707,740.91 (Pay01a)
8. Obsolete Items
9. Contracts
10. Grants
L. ACTION
11. Approve Date and Time of the Annual Organizational Meeting (Materials)
The date and time of the Annual Organizational Meeting (AOM) is to occur during the 15 day period that begins on the first Friday in December. The Board must set the AOM time and date at the regular meeting immediately prior to the first day of the 15 day period. The AOM is to be held on December 6, 2011 at 6:30 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
M. INFORMATION/DISCUSSION
12. Site Plan (First Reading) (Materials) Fillmore Middle School
8:00 p.m.
N. FUTURE MEETINGS
December 1-3 CSBA Annual Conference – San Diego
December 6 5:30 p.m. Closed Session – Board Room
6:30 p.m. Regular Meeting – Board Room
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
O. BOARD CLOSING COMMENTS AND AGENDA BUILDING
8:15 p.m.
P. ADJOURNMENT

ASB sponsored a blood drive today November 1, 2011 with the United Blood Services. They were able to draw blood from approximately 55 students and adults. Participants were able to learn about the different types of blood and they will be notified their specific blood type in the next few weeks. Students were introduced to another way to save lives. They had to be at least 16 years old and weigh a minimum amount.

THOUSAND OAKS, CA - California Lutheran University will host a FIRST LEGO League Robotics Qualifying Tournament for fourth- through eighth-graders from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20.

Twenty-four teams from local schools will bring the robots they designed to compete for a spot at the regional competition in December. Last year, the university hosted its first tournament, an informal event that drew 12 teams.

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring young people’s interest in science and technology. Its LEGO League program challenges 9- to 14-year-old students to build LEGO-based robots to complete a specific task.

“Food Safety” is the theme for this year’s event. Teams will also give a presentation on the topic as part of the competition.

The public is invited to watch the competition. In addition, volunteers are needed to assist with registration, set-up, coordination, judging and refereeing. Robotics experience is not necessary.

The event will be held in Soiland Recreation Center in the Gilbert Sports and Fitness Center, which is on the north side of Olsen Road near Campus Drive in Thousand Oaks.

For more information on the tournament, contact Bob Rumer at rrumer@callutheran.edu or (805) 377-8369. For more information on FIRST, visit http://www.usfirst.org.

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Fillmore Middle School ASB hosted their annual Haunted House October 27, 28, and 31st during both lunches. Students spent the past two weeks collecting costumes, props and set pieces for their Haunted House, creating a creepy setting for their scares. Students stayed late working after school every day last week to get the whole thing ready to go on time. ASB student Anthony Morales commented, “It’s better than I thought it would be.”

The result of all their hard work? Popular acclaim. Each day lines of students waiting to be scared snaked around the pavilion at lunch. In fact, so many students wanted to attend, each day hopeful students had to be turned away. “It’s Scary!” says Maria Alvarado, 8th grader.

Staff members across the board pitched in to make the event a success, AP Mrs. Roderick, counselor Mrs. Wyand, teachers Mrs. Rice and Mrs. Beeh, supervisor Mrs. Arroyo, and secretary Mrs. Ecklund. “The kids just loved it- they were talking about it all day. Each day it was different, and the kids were excited to go again, and see how it had changed” said Mrs. Arroyo.