FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2009

6:00 p.m. – SPECIAL MEETING - BUDGET STUDY SESSION

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.

6:00 p.m.

I. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG

II. ROLL CALL CONTINUED »

More Peacebuilders receive January certificates at San Cayetano Elementary.
Enlarge Photo

On Tuesday, January 13, 2009, San Cayetano School recognized good citizenship and character at their Peacebuilder Assembly for the month of January. Mr. Josh Overton came to San Cayetano to speak to the students about what a good citizen is and how displaying good character could enrich the students and others in the community around them. Each teacher chose a student from his or her class whom showed excellent character and peace-building skills. Roman Torango and Ian Overton, the San Cayetano ASB President and Vice-President assisted Mr. Overton in handing out the Peacebuilder Awards. The Peacebuilders for January are: Diego Ruiz, Alan Carrillo, Jessica Nava, Yessenia Fregoso, Elizabeth Ocampo, Mario Hurtado, Jairo Rios, Victoria Pace, Alexis Vargas, Jocelyn Munoz, Julieanna Lindres, Arvin Peraza, Ethan Gomez, Melia Galindo, Perla Chavez, Daniel Avila, Rolando Cabrera, Erin Overton, Austin Reed, Serina Valenzuela, Tereliz Martinez, and Anthony Ramirez. Roman then announced to the students that the Rainbow Foundation is sponsoring the San Cayetano Character Counts Award of a $100.00 savings bond. Mr. Overton presented the Character Counts Award to a deserving first grade student. Melody Tello was chosen by the first grade teachers as a model of outstanding behavior and kindness to the other students. 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 an orange raffle ticket. The students place their tickets in a box and one ticket is drawn. The student whose ticket is drawn is given a backpack full of supplies. 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 new bicycles, an I-pod shuffle, and three large stuffed animals. Moises Pedroza won the Perfect Attendance Award for the month of January.

VENTURA: The Ventura College Women’s Basketball Team and the Ventura College Psychology Club are joining the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association’s national Pink Zone fight against breast cancer by hosting an evening of Breast Cancer Awareness on February 4. All proceeds raised during the event will be contributed to the Ribbons of Life Breast Cancer Foundation, a local 501(c)3 charitable organization.

More than 1,100 schools and organizations participated in the 2008 “Think Pink” events, up from just 120 in 2007, and even more are expected to participate in the 2009 WBCA's "Pink Zone" initiative. Each school may choose their own activities to raise awareness. Many schools have partnered with local charities to make any donations raised through the WBCA's "Pink Zone" initiative at their individual school.

The WBCA's "Pink Zone" initiative is a global, unified effort for the WBCA's nation of coaches to assist in raising breast cancer awareness on the court, across campuses, in communities and beyond. The week set aside for this year's initiative is February 13 - 22, however many schools are participating outside of that window due to scheduling conflicts.

In the morning, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:20 a.m., breast cancer survivor, author and educator Lisa Barreto will speak to the Human Sexuality Class about breast cancer and its impact. The event will be held in the Ventura College Lecture Hall UV-2, and is free to all attendees.

During the evening, beginning at 5:00 p.m. in the Athletic Events Center on the Ventura College campus, various local organizations involved in the detection and treatment of breast cancer, health and wellness and support groups will have information tables; families and friends of victims and survivors will have the opportunity to make large Valentines’ Day hearts to honor those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer; and contributions to the Ribbons for Life Breast Cancer Foundation will be collected. All donors to the Ribbons for Life Breast Cancer Foundation will receive a pink ribbon from either one of the players or one of the members of the Psychology Club.

In the evening, the Ventura College women’s basketball team will play the L.A. Pierce women’s basketball team beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the lower level of the Athletic Event Center. There will be a silent auction of sports memorabilia, specially printed t-shirts and sweatshirts, and donated items from retailers in the community. In addition, at half-time, there will be a 50/50 raffle, a special acknowledgement of those who have encountered breast cancer and those who have received the Lesley Paarmann Breast Cancer Education Scholarship, and a Survivor’s Victory Lap around the gym floor. Awarded annually through the Ventura College Foundation, the scholarship was named to honor a woman whose recurring battle with cancer has motivated those who knew and loved her – and is the first academic scholarship awarded in the nation that encourages a breast cancer survivor to further his or her education. All fans are encouraged to wear pink to the game to honor breast cancer victims. Both teams will be acknowledging this special event.

The NCAA has also joined the WBCA Pink Zone™ initiative by implementing the "Calling for a Cure" campaign and officials were encouraged to make a donation to the Kay Yow/WBCA Cancer Fund™, the officially selected recipient of the WBCA Pink Zone events. The NCAA raised $25,000 during their 2008 "Calling for a Cure" campaign.
Local sponsors for the Ventura College event include Gold Coast Broadcasting, the Ventura County Star, the VC Reporter, Lazer Broadcasting, Long’s Drug #231 on Ashwood Avenue, Cumulus Media, and the Ventura College Foundation. Any potential donors to the silent auction should contact Assistant Coach Robin Hester at 805-654-6400 ext. 3271.

For additional information:
1) on the national Pink Zone event: http://www.wbca.org/pinkzone.asp
2) on the Ventura College Think Pink event: VCweplayhard.com
3) on Ribbons of Life: ribbonsventura.org.
4) on Ventura College: venturacollege.edu.

FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2009

5:15 P.M. – CLOSED SESSION
6:00 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.

5:15 p.m.

I. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG

II. ROLL CALL

III. PUBLIC COMMENT ON 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.

IV. CLOSED SESSION
The Board of Education will meet from 5:15 to 6:00 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) CONTINUED »

Jeff Sweeney
Superintendent Fillmore Unified School District

Many in the Fillmore community appreciated the new stadium as our football teams, both junior varsity and varsity, had seasons that will be remembered for years to come. Recall last year our watching the progress of the stadium being redone, students, staff, and community waiting in anticipation. Both teams delivered this year with record-setting seasons, shattering several team and individual records. We anticipate the same success next year from these teams. And, we anticipate that our student athletes in soccer and track and field will have the same successful seasons this year.

As you can see when you drive by the stadium, it is still a work in progress. There were some snags found on the field turf prior to the football season that necessitated its total removal and reinstallation. The track, too, has caused some delays. Just like the field turf, the installer is responsible for delivering a first-rate track. Currently, you can see plastic sheeting around the track as the contractor rushes to complete the field so that soccer and track and field can use the stadium this year.

We had hoped that the track could have been completed by now, but several delays have kept that from occurring. First, the original track surface was unsatisfactorily installed, at no fault of the district, and had to be repaired. The repairs to the field were delayed because of the success of the FHS football team as it made it to the CIF semi-finals. Once the football season ended, the soccer teams wanted to use the fields in preparation for the new season. Soccer practice, pre-season games, and two tournaments were scheduled, delaying the finalization of the track even more. We anticipated that the work on the track would occur during the two week Winter Break. Some work was done, but, unfortunately, Mother Nature took over and created more delays due to rain and then wind.

That is where we are today. As long as the winds are present, the final repairs to the track cannot be completed. Once that is completed, the track can then be lined and ready for the track and field season. Unfortunately, these delays have had an impact on the soccer season for our six teams if we don’t catch a break with the weather.

We anticipate that the FHS stadium will serve the needs of our District for years to come. Thanks for your patience with these delays as we make sure that there is quality workmanship in the stadium. Then, we can all enjoy the stadium, celebrating the successes of our student athletes and outstanding coaching staff.

The Ventura College Financial Aid Office will host several workshops designed to help those interested in getting financial assistance to attend college on the following Saturdays: January 24 and 31, and February 7, 21 and 28, all at 10:00 a.m. in the first floor BEACH area in the LRC/Library on the Ventura College campus. The workshops are free and the public is invited. The workshop will explain the application process step by step and review the required 2009-2010 FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) forms in detail. Attendees should bring a copy of their 2008 Federal Income Tax return or W2 forms. If the attendee is a dependant student, he or she should bring their parent’s 2008 Federal Income Tax return or W2 forms. Registration is not required.

The closest parking on campus is by the Athletic Event Center in the West parking lot, accessible off Loma Vista Avenue, between West Campus Way and Central Campus Way. Parking is free on weekends.

For additional information, call the Ventura College Financial Aid Office, (805) 654-6369. For maps and directions, please visit VenturaCollege.edu, click on College Information and then select Maps and Parking.

Natalie Garnica
Student, Fillmore High School

It’s the start of a new year at FHS, and the students are settling back into the routine of classes. Seniors are finished with applying to colleges, and are gearing up for the plethora of financial aid applications. The last semester of the 2008-2009 school year is sure to go by quickly, but the students of FHS will be busy for the next few months.

Winter sports are still in full swing with the girls’ basketball team home against Oak Park earlier in the week, the same day that our frosh boys’ soccer team played away at Santa Clara. A boys’ basketball game was Wednesday against LA Baptist, and the wrestling team had a tournament at Santa Paula on Tuesday. Because of the new CIF rule that says that sports can start practice any time of the year, baseball try-outs and swimming try outs are on Friday and Saturday. The swim team is counting down the days until the pool opens in town, and is hoping to be able to practice in it by mid February.

The Winter Formal is in two weeks – January 17th to be exact – so be sure to encourage your student to attend the dance.

For more information, please contact the student store at 524-8491.

Students at San Cayetano Elementary School are truly in the spirit of giving this season. It started at the beginning of December when students collected items for the annual Kids Give Sale, organized by the local PEO chapter. The school stage was loaded with stuffed animals, toys, household goods, books, purses, jewelry and much more. As one student put it, “It is a good time to clean out your old stuff before Christmas when you get all that new stuff”. On the day of the sale, students were allowed to Christmas shop for their families. There were wonderful bargains to be had as all items were priced at $.25. High school students from One Step Alavez came to assist the shoppers. At the end of the day, $353.00 was raised. With that money in hand, a delegation of students headed over to the Toys and More toy store on Santa Clara Street where they found more bargains. Then they headed over to the Fire Department to donate toys for the annual Toy Drive. It goes to show that the true spirit of giving is alive and well at San Cayetano School.

Volunteers setup gifts for the children.

Early Tuesday, December 23, Support for the Kids Foundation Volunteers delivered toys, vouchers to Super A Foods, clothing, department store gift cards and laundry baskets filled with household supplies to Fillmore children and their parents. Homemade cookies were also given to each family as they received their gifts. The excited gleam in a child’s eye and their shy smiles are what made these volunteers give so much of their time and generosity.
The Dr. Neil Schmidt Fillmore Family Resource Center served as host to this organization and center volunteers Ronda Reyes-Deutsch, Arli Reyes, Julie Mendez and Norma Pérez-Sandford served as elves on this wonderful festive occasion.
It is now three and one-half years that Support for the Kids Foundation has helped the communities of Fillmore and Piru by providing field trips to Disney on Ice, Chuck E. Cheese parties, and many free tickets to shows at the Performing Arts Center in Thousand Oaks and at Pepperdine University. They also finance summer camps, fall festivals, food pantries, and provide quality used household appliances, clothing and toys. All Fillmore and Piru schools and children have been recipients of their generosity. Lynda Miller, founder of Support for the Kids, was honored for her hard work by the Fillmore Unified School District Board of Education last year.
The Dr. Neil Schmidt Fillmore Family Resource Center is located on the Fillmore High School campus, Room 17 and operates after 3:30 p.m. or by appointment. The Center volunteers’ mission is to assist the Fillmore and Piru communities by providing educational information and social and behavioral health referrals to help families survive and thrive.
Among other services, volunteers help community members complete required school or county forms, provide tutoring for the GED exam, parenting classes and instruction for parents on how to use email to contact their children’s teachers. The center staff stress how important it is for parents to be involved in the education of their children all the way through the K-12 grades.
If you would like to volunteer at future events, please feel free to call 524-4999, or if you would like to donate to this Fillmore non-profit organization and make a difference, please send a check to Dr. Neil Schmidt FFRC, Rm. 17, 555 Central Avenue, Fillmore.

Fillmore Unified School District

FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2009

5:15 P.M. – CLOSED SESSION
6:00 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.

5:15 p.m.

I. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG

II. ROLL CALL

III. PUBLIC COMMENT ON 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.

IV. CLOSED SESSION
The Board of Education will meet from 5:15 to 6:00 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. CONTINUED »

Fillmore High School has implemented the Professional Learning Community (PLC) model for improving teaching and learning. Collaboration is a vehicle for realizing and understanding student needs, fostering the desire to meet those needs, and places value on teacher expertise. It is highly effective when it is focused on what works for students. FHS staff meets in collaborative teams each Wednesday before students arrive.

To begin the school year, FHS staff broke down the elements of the job that would be immediately valuable for students and teachers. For our teachers that included: Creating a comprehensive syllabus; Attendance procedures; School-wide discipline expectations; Lesson planning and assessment: benchmarks as evidence of student success; Grading and report cards; Communication with parents; Good teaching; Learning environments: effective vs. ineffective; Curriculum: meeting state standards; Facilities: maintenance and repairs; Forms; Textbooks, schedule changes, lockers, etc…State testing and the High School Exit Exam; ASVAB, PSAT, and SAT for juniors and seniors; Accreditation: progress and needs. Having addressed these items as a collaborative group ensured unity among FHS staff and set a positive tone for the school year.

FHS staff members prepared a self-study document as part of the WASC accreditation process, completed in November 2008. This work was our opportunity to examine practices and programs in place, and to determine their relevance and effectiveness for our students. The culminating task of WASC was to develop an Action Plan, in which we outlined major academic goals for the next three years. The emphasis of the Action Plan is on improving student academic achievement in math, reading and writing. FHS staff also identified English Language Learners and Special Education as populations needing more support. Further, as a collaborative team, FHS staff is committed to the continued use of data (from multiple sources) in making decisions.

One final note, in order for the PLC model to reach its full potential at FHS, there needs to be buy-in from all stakeholders. The district office and school board has been very supportive of the work we are doing at FHS. And, under the leadership of Principal Wilber, we expect many positive outcomes in terms of student academic growth and achievement.

On November 20, Fillmore Middle School students listened intensely to Daniel and Tricia Gray, Alumni from the University of Notre Dame and UC Santa Barbara.. The topics included college preparation. Photo courtesy Kathryn Hawkins.

On November 20th, the Fillmore Middle School AVID program hosted Daniel and Tricia Gray, alumni from the University of Notre Dame and University of California Santa Barbara, respectively. Approximately 70 students listened as they presented topics including college preparation, choosing the right university, and some of their personal experiences at college.
Daniel, a 2006 graduate of the University of Notre Dame, shared some insights regarding his college application process. “It’s important not to let the cost of a school deter you from applying. Get accepted and find out how much financial aid would be available to you. There are a lot of scholarship opportunities which may make expensive schools more affordable than you might think.” Tricia, a 2006 graduate of the University of California Santa Barbara, shared the importance of finding the right school. “You shouldn’t choose a college based on where your friends are going. Instead, you should find the school that best fits you, based on academic programs, atmosphere, and the people. For me, UCSB was the perfect fit.” Currently, Daniel and Tricia Gray are professionals who work for the Federal Government.
Scott Carroll, one of the AVID teachers at Fillmore Middle School, is an advocate for this program and is eager for his students to hear about college from recent college graduates. “Thanks so much for taking the time to speak with our AVID students. They were very excited and really enjoyed your presentation. We really struggle to get guest speakers, so it was great for us to have two great speakers at the same time!” Heather Atwood and Scott Carroll are currently serving as co-coordinators of the AVID program at the middle school. There are currently about 100 students in the program.
“AVID” (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a college-preparatory program where students receive academic support as well as help getting organized and staying motivated from teachers and other students. The goal is to be eligible for a four-year university when they graduate from high school. The students, who are also encouraged to enroll in honors classes, will get to visit colleges and receive tutoring from other AVID students, including some from the high school program. If you know a college graduate who would like to be a guest speaker for the AVID program please contact Scott Carroll or Heather Atwood at Fillmore Middle School.

Mr. Francisco Garcia
Enlarge Photo

On Tuesday, December 9, 2008, San Cayetano School recognized good citizenship and character at their Peacebuilder Assembly for the month of December. Mr. Francisco Garcia, from CSUCI, came to speak to the students about how to be a good citizen. Each teacher chose a student from his or her class whom showed excellent character and peace-building skills. Roman Tarango and Ian Overton, the San Cayetano ASB President and Vice-President assisted Mr. Garcia in handing out the Peacebuilder Awards. The Peacebuilders for December are: Cesar Magana, Natalia Zamora, Noelani Sanchez, David Anchando, David Rodriguez, Christopher Perez, Hailey Cummings, Karen Trujillo Villanueva, James Chandler, Andrea Magana-Murillo, Ricardo Valenzuela, James Cadena, Raul Mejia, Zachary Tipton, Ashley Montano, Ernie Rangle, Ryan Nunez, John Chavez, Aliai Cantero, Jorge Iniguez, Kirah Collins, and Rubi Torres. Roman then announced to the students that the Rainbow Foundation is sponsoring the San Cayetano Character Counts Award of a $100.00 savings bond. Mr. Garcia presented the Character Counts Award to a deserving fifth-grade student. Joseph Sanchez was chosen by the fifth grade teachers as a model of outstanding behavior and responsibility to the other students. 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 an orange 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 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. Leslie Zamora, a fifth grader from Mr.Maus’s class, won the Perfect Attendance Award for December.

VENTURA: The Ventura College School of Nursing and Allied Health graduated 48 new nurses who receiving their pins at the Fall 2008 Nursing Pinning on December 12 at the Ventura High School auditorium. The traditional ceremony included the personal pinning of each graduate by the nurse or nursing instructor who mentored or inspired the student to enter the profession.
A number of students were recognized for their significant academic achievements and for their community service:
o Three graduates were named as “Graduates with Distinction” for their contributions to the School of Nursing, to the community or their employers, and to their fellow students: Analisa Balestrero, Phyllis Franco, and Melanie Reece.
o A Red Cross Award for volunteer work in the community, often at flu shot clinics and other health facilities, went to Elizabeth Gollner, who contributed more than 20 hours.
o Community Service Recognition went to four students who contributed at least 20 hours of community service work, although not necessarily with Red Cross activities: Besi Duarte, Phyllis Franco, Lynda Schoppe, and Melanie Reece.
o Eleven received Peer Tutor Awards for their work assisting other students with the challenging academic nursing curriculum: Anthony Van Leeuwen, Vanessa Worthington, Jennifer Kreil, Rosie Diaz, Melanie Reece, Erin Froebe, Nicole Radoumis, Patti Aung, Lynda Schoppe, Maryam Atashbarand Analisa Balestrero
The School of Nursing and Allied Health prepares students to care for individuals in hospitals, homes, and other health care settings. Graduates practice the art and science of nursing by combining knowledge from many different disciplines to promote the restoration and maintenance of health in their clients. The School administers the Associate Degree Nursing, Certified Nurse Assistant, and Continuing Education for Registered Nurses programs.
For additional information, contact Joan Beem, Director, Ventura College School of Nursing, (805) 654-6400 ext. 3125 or jbeem@vcccd.edu.

LIST OF VENTURA COLLEGE FALL 2008 NURSING GRADUATES:

Agoura Hills: Patti K. Aung Camarillo: Melanie Reece, Valerie Reveles, Mark J. Sarreal, Canoga Park: Lorena Soria Carpinteria: Jennifer Peterson Fillmore: Juan Carlos Lomeli, Ildiko Mate, Goleta: Noemi Buyco Moorpark: Rachel Rebello, Newbury Park: Randi Shano Ojai: Lauryn Fuller, Ken Smith Oxnard: Maryam Atashbar, Nasrin Atashbar, Analisa Balestrero, Mayda Garcia, Elizabeth Gollner, Sheryl Jularbal, Jennifer Kreil, Joan Vea, Vanessa Worthington, Mark Yumul Point Mugu: Evangeline Esquivel, Kalin Spencer Port Hueneme: Phyllis Franco, Santa Barbara: Josefa Valeriano Santa Paula: Raeanna Lyon, Lisa Reeder Ventura: Andrew Bozek, Don Braunsteiner, Rocio A. Diaz, Besi Duarte, Erin M. Froebe, Joel Hernandez, Michelle Hughes, Megan Kelley, Keshav Khadka, Jeremiah Kosten, Kimberly McCallion, Kimberly Noll, Melody Root, Lynda C. Schoppe, Teresa Sprinkle, Anthony Van Leevwen, Megan Wilson, West Hills: Carissa Cuzzoni Woodland Hills: Nicole Radoumis.

Fillmore Unified School District

FILLMORE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2008

5:15 P.M. – CLOSED SESSION
6:00 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.

5:15 p.m.

I. CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG

II. ROLL CALL

III. PUBLIC COMMENT ON 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.

IV. CLOSED SESSION
The Board of Education will meet from 5:15 to 6:00 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.
1. DISCLOSURE OF ITEM(S) TO BE DISCUSSED IN CLOSED SESSION
• School District Pupils (Education Code 35146)
o Expulsion Case Number 08-09-04 CONTINUED »

Shervina Annie, American Field Service (AFS) exchange student from the Philippines, recently spent the morning at Mt. Vista Elementary School teaching the students about her country and its customs. The attentive students learned that the Philippines is composed of over 7000 islands and is divided into three regions. Shervina showed the students her country's flag and told them the symbolism behind it. Her Power Point Presentation included pictures of her school, friends, and family, as well as scenic spots in her country, the national costumes, transportation, and some typical foods. Shervina taught the students a few simple phrases in her national language, Tagalog.
Shervina has made many friends since coming to the United States and is enjoying her time here. She has learned many things about America since her arrival in August, 2008, as part of the Youth Exchange and Study Program of AFS, and those around her have enjoyed learning about the Philippines. She is attending Fillmore High School and is enrolled as a senior. Her host parents are Greg and Priscilla Anderson. She will be in Fillmore until June 28, 2009.

The “Friends of Piru” is a non-profit 501(c) organization focused on helping youth attending the Piru Elementary School. This year, Friends of Piru have committed to assist the school with sending their entire 5th grade student body for a week of resident outdoor education and leadership training in Santa Ynez (Santa Barbara County). The camp begins in mid-January.
The name of the camp is Rancho Alegre. How fitting… that our children are going to break out of traditional boundaries and expand their learning in the beauty and comfort of the Santa Ynez Mountains.
We need your help. You can imagine the expenses involved in busing an entire 5th grade student body to the mountains for a week? This portion of their education is not covered by the school district. The teachers have been organizing fund-raisers throughout the entire year. Of course, the current economic crisis has limited the ability of some traditional benefactors to help out.
Your neighborhood students have had bake sales, barbeques, and raffles. Each student has been responsible for earning money to attend the trip.
Time is approaching and we are in a difficult position. We have rallied the Fillmore and Piru community to fund the needed expenses that go above and beyond what the students have contributed.
Our dilemma: There are ten 5th grade students who desperately need your sponsorship for the camp. The direct cost is $250 per student. Please, we don’t want to leave them behind, and are asking everyone in Fillmore and Piru to help. Think about a camp experience that you had or wished for? Now is your chance, we have families without students even splitting sponsorships with other families, church or service groups.
On Friday December, 5th, Fillmore Police Chief Tim Hagel attended Piru Elementary School. He presented the school with two sponsorship checks totaling $500. Captain Hagel explained that the Sheriff Deputies serving Piru, heard of the school’s plight, and overnight the Deputies collected $250 out of their pockets.
In addition, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Cops Running For Charity held a special meeting on Thursday, December 4th, and approved a check for another $250 sponsorship. We need ten more donations of $250.
After the check presentation, Captain Hagel told Friends of Piru and Principal Duborow that the Rancho Alegre Outdoor Leadership Camp is the element needed to help raise great young leaders. He explained that number one is the guidance by the family, number two the school and community and number three is the friendship and mentoring by police.
Hagel said, “It is so important that we (police) support this cause that Piru School has championed for. We need to get to these children by 3rd grade and stay committed to them, mentoring them and befriending them throughout their journey of those uncertain years growing up. CONTINUED »