covering the torrance unified school · pdf filecovering the torrance unified school district...

Covering the Torrance Unified School DistrictVolUme 1, ISSUe 2 JUne—SepTember 2014

®Education + Communication = A Better Nation

www.SchoolnewsrollCall.com

Collaborative efforts Help Students Achieve Their Dreams

Inside: Schools pages 6—14 • Torrance Police Dept. page 2 • Torrance Ed. Foundation page 5 • AHA for Kids! pages 15—19 • Contests pages 11 & 18

Free

Celebrating our AccomplishmentsAs we approach the end of the school year, I would like to

take this opportunity to reflect on the various accomplishments of the district and thank all of those involved in creating those successes. First and foremost, it is important to highlight the academic progress of the students of Torrance Unified School District (TUSD). TUSD’s graduation rate has continued to surpass the state average. Our dropout rate is 1.6 percent, compared to the state average of 11.6 percent. This school year, our teachers and administrators have been focused on the implementation

of the Common Core State Standards. Teachers have been engaged in training sessions all year to ensure we are well prepared to fully implement the Common Core in the upcoming school year. Part of the assessment for the new content standards is the Smarter Balanced Assessment. This annual test will replace the old California Standardized Tests and will be administered electronically. Part of the pilot testing has involved student and teacher training of the new netbooks, as well as an analysis of our technical infrastructure. This summer we will upgrade our systems, as needed, to ensure that students will be able to easily access the on-line tests. As a teacher, I am approaching the implementation of the Common Core with a positive outlook. The idea of digging deeper into concepts and teaching to increase

BOARD OF EDUCATION

By Dr. George MannonSuperintendent

TUSD can proudly boast a 95.8% graduation rate, one of the highest in the State of California. Our students are constantly being recognized for their academic and extra-curricular activities. Whether our students are being accepted to the college of their choice, or receiving honors in debate, choir, robotics, athletics, or dance competitions, they are able to achieve their dreams because of the talented team of teachers, classified employees, and administrators that work tirelessly to ensure they succeed. I have always said that our goal is to maximize student achievement. We are able to accomplish this goal because our community of educators emphasizes growth for each individual student, making certain their educational needs are met.

This school year has been an especially demanding one because of all the changes to the State funding formula and the transition to the Common Core Standards. Throughout this year, our staff has met each challenge with professionalism, enthusiasm, and dedication. I am proud of the strides we have made this year which is reflected in the continued academic growth of our students. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our teachers, classified

mark SteffenPresident

Dr. mannon with lincoln eS 4th grade teacher margie Smith at the opening of the reading room.

Dr. mannon with Torrance High School students from the black Culture Club.

employees, and administrators for their invaluable contributions to the success of our District.

Equally important to our accomplishments are the hundreds of parents that volunteer countless hours at our schools, supporting classrooms with their time and resources. Our active parents have helped us build our parent partnerships collaboratively, for the benefit of all our TUSD students. Together, our schools, our families, and

our community should be proud of the exemplary work they do.

As this school year wraps up, I would like to express my appreciation to all our community partners for their unmatched support of our District. I look forward to a busy summer of planning for the upcoming school year. I hope everyone enjoys their summer and see you in September.

See Board of Education • Page 4

By Janet Tajii, PresidentAs this season comes to an end, the Torrance Council of PTAs is very proud of the

work it has accomplished this year. Our volunteers for the 30 units and the council have served a total of 470,286 hours! At a minimum wage of $8 an hour, this is worth $3,762,288. But we all know that our volunteers are worth a lot more than $8 an hour!

Each PTA unit and council has been awarding scholarships to graduating high school seniors. This year they have awarded 80 scholarships totaling $42,490! Additionally, we had four school seniors receive scholarships from the California State PTA.

In the Reflections Contest, a National PTA arts recognition and achievement program, the Torrance Council had two students win first place in judging at the California State PTA level. Their work has been sent to the National PTA for judging.

Our PTA units have also provided a multitude of programs for the schools, including Healthy Ever After, Adventures in Art, science assemblies, social studies assemblies, carnivals, robotics, spelling bee, skate night, multicultural week, fun run, service clubs, Read Across America, test-prep classes, personal finance classes, parent education and more.

While we are celebrating the end of a successful school year, our council and units are already preparing for next year. We are attending training sessions, working on budgets, and getting ideas for programs, fundraisers and membership drives. We hope to increase our membership so that we can continue to be an effective advocate for our students. So please join us. Everyone is welcome!

Join Us!

2 www.schoolnewsrollcall.com

Torrance Police Departmentwww.torranceca.gov

Collaborative effortsAt the Torrance Police Department, we value our partnership with

TUSD and we will continue our collaborative efforts to provide a safe campus environment for the students, faculty, and school volunteers.

Our School Resource Officers (SROs) are a key element to maintaining an open line of communication with the schools in order to identify potential problems in their earliest stages. Each SRO is assigned to a high school as well as the middle and elementary schools in that geographic area. The relationships that they develop with the students and school administrators greatly contribute to our ability to provide a safe learning environment.

Traffic safety around each school campus during times of pick-up and drop-off continues to be a priority. A necessary combination of education and enforcement by parking enforcement and traffic officers will continue, along with the efforts of our team of crossing guards. We ask that you please obey all posted street signs and parking regulations as they exist for the safety of the high volume of vehicular and pedestrian traffic. In 2010, the Torrance Police Department partnered with TUSD to develop a leadership program designed to assist our youth in preparation for their journey through high school and into adulthood. The 8th Grade Leadership Program, now called The John J. Neu Leadership Academy, is presented by dedicated instructors who are associated with our department’s Juvenile Diversion unit.

The students who have participated in the 10-week program have commented on how thankful they were to receive such valuable life skill training that will assist them with decision-making during the critical years of their transition into high school and adulthood. We thank Exxon/Mobil for generously funding this important program since its inception, and we will continually strive to develop other programs with TUSD in order to have a positive impact in the lives of our students.

As a parent with children currently attending a TUSD school and also as your Chief of Police, I can assure you that our commitment to school safety will always be a high priority for our department working in partnership with TUSD.

mark matsudaPolice Chief

Education + Communication = A Better Nation

www.schoolnewsrollcall.com

Covering theTORRANCE UNIFIED sCHOOl DIsTRICT

FOUNDER/PUBlIsHER: Kay Coop562/493-3193 • [email protected] SAleS:

562/493-3193 • Fax: 562/430-8063ConTenT CoorDInATor: Barbra LonginygrApHIC DeSIgner: Meshel NegreteCopy eDITorS:

Lisa Brock, Kate Karp & Anna ZappiaConTrIbUTIng CArToonIST:

Netragrednik by Neta Madison

You can nowlaunch ourWeb APP to yourSmartPhone fromour web site

®

@SchoolNewsRC

SchoolNewsRollCall

SCHool newS roll CAll, llCP.O. Box 728, Seal Beach, CA 90740562/493-3193www.schoolnewsrollcall.comCopyright © 2006, School News Roll Call, LLC Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited unless otherwise stated. Opinions expressed by contributing writers and guest columnists are their views and not necessarily those of School News Roll Call. This publication is privately owned and the right is reserved to select and edit content. The school district does not endorse the advertisers in this publication.

Neta Madison

netragrednik

Congratulations to the Class of 2014! The Superintendent and Board of Education articles are positive and such a great way to end the year with so many accomplishments.

We have been introduced to the Common Core Standards and look forward to learning more next year. Students are being prepared to compete in the 21st Century.

We appreciate you including School News among your reading choices.

Have a wonderful summer and we’ll look forward to another exciting school year!

HomeRoom

562/493-3193

[email protected]

Kay CoopFounder/Publisher

EL CAMINO COLLEGE16007 Crenshaw Blvd.Torrance, CA 905061-866-ELCAMINO

Hundreds of Classes Added at El Camino College

Check MyECC for your Online Registration Appointment

Eight-week summer session begins Monday, June 16Second six-week summer session begins Monday, July 7

Apply Online Today!elcamino.edu/apply4summer

Classes are only $46 per unit!

facebook.com/ElCaminoCollege

twitter.com/ECC_Online

instagram.com/ECC_Online

youtube.com/eccweb

Jump-start your college education this summer!

Covering the Torrance Unified School diSTricT June—september 2014 3

Schedule a little time

See UCLA doctors in your neighborhoodMaking your health a priority is now easier than ever. With primary and specialty care locations

throughout the South Bay, UCLA doctors are where you need us, when you need us. Because when

it comes to your health, we go out of our way to make sure you never have to.

• Family Medicine

• Internal Medicine

• Endocrinology

• Nephrology

• Pulmonary

• Sleep Medicine

Torrance Manhattan Beach

• Family Medicine


• Pediatrics

• Radiology

• Family Medicine


• Cardiology

• Dermatology

• Rheumatology

Redondo Beach

1-855-Go-2-UCLA (1-855-462-8252)

Make an appointment: uclahealth.org/southbay uclahealth.org/getsocial


problem-solving and creative-thinking skills is a task that I believe will benefit children and bring out the best in our teachers.

Another accomplishment that is worthy of reflection is the progress of the modernization of our school facilities through Measures Y and Z funds. The community has witnessed exciting changes in many of the school sites around town. As a Board member, I have enjoyed the opportunity to attend the numerous rededication ceremonies—celebrations at the completion of projects. It is such a privilege to witness generations of families who have attended the same school and watch them experience

the rebirth of a site, which is as much a part of the families as are the families’ homes. Each completed modernization project is the collaborative effort of TUSD staff members, the construction team, and the community members. Together we have created schools our students deserve and community resources for all to enjoy.

Soon, the district will open the new Family Welcome Enrollment Center (FWEC). This center will be a one-stop shop for families to enroll their students and ensure all students transition smoothly into their schools when enrolling. The restructuring of departments is a way to bring about increased efficiency and consistency in the enrollment process and make certain parents have access to district resources at the time of enrollment. We hope to have the new center open by July 1, 2014.

The Board values transparency, and we want to make ourselves more accessible to staff, students, and parents. The restructuring has the added bonus of enabling us to reinstate an additional Board meeting a month to give us increased opportunities for community interaction. Please go to the district Web site, www.tusd.org, for a meeting schedule.

Finally, it is good to reflect on the financial status of TUSD. It is important to remember that it will take seven years (2021) to get TUSD back financially where it was in 2007–2008. Given that fact, TUSD is in better financial shape than it has been in years. The district was able to create a reserve that enabled us to survive several difficult years, thanks to sacrifices endured by all our staff. The Board made a promise to spend down that reserve, and as a result staff has enjoyed much-deserved raises over the last two years, as well as an elimination of furlough days. The Board also approved the implementation of a class-size reduction program across all grade levels. These restorations do not necessarily mean the state budget challenges are completely over. There is still great ambiguity surrounding the new Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF). As we get more concrete information on the parameters of the LCFF, TUSD staff and all stakeholders will need to be vigilant and make sure that we spend wisely on our programs while still protecting the district from future fiscal uncertainties.

The end of the year is a time to celebrate the many achievements of our remarkable students. Graduations and promotions are coming soon. We will all see you there to rejoice in your children’s accomplishments and wish them well as they head off to their future endeavors.


Board of Education • From Page 1

martha DeutschMember


michael wermers

Clerk

Don leeVice-President

Terry RaginsMember

Torrance Unified School District Board of Education

Los Angeles County Office of Education9300 Imperial Hwy., Downey, CA 90242 • 562/922-6360 • www.lacoe.edu

strategic Plan—A New Way ForwardI am pleased to announce the release of a new strategic plan

that outlines the Los Angeles County Office of Education’s course of action for the next three years.

The plan identifies outcomes – with key goals designed to capitalize on LACOE’s strengths – and articulates a vision for an innovative, contemporary education agency that is ready to meet new challenges and opportunities.

The plan was conceived more than two years ago not long after I joined LACOE – and after the Fiscal Crisis and Management Assistance Team (FCMAT) completed its review of LACOE operations and made recommendations to enhance efficiency.

The FCMAT review gave us some immediate things that we needed to get done, but did not really give us a long-range view of what, strategically, we want to see happen in the County Office. This prompted us to come up with a more formalized strategic plan that will produce the best work possible for the county’s 80 K-12 public school districts and 2 million preschool and school-age children.

The LACOE Strategic Plan was developed following critical conversations on the Office’s purpose, core values and focus areas that provided the framework for the plan. It is focused on Common Core, Innovative Systems and Schools, Fiscal Direction and Solvency, and Partnerships. Specific goals are identified under each of these areas.

Collaboration with school districts plays a big role in the strategic plan. Our purpose statement speaks to the area of how we serve the school districts, how we communicate to them, and how we adjust our services to them in ways that they find helpful and are based on their specific needs.

The plan, for example, targets increased collaboration with the districts on initiatives relating to Gov. Jerry Brown’s new Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF) and Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) programs. LACOE will now play a key role in the rollout and implementation of these programs, assisting districts as they develop and manage budgets in accordance with the new state guidelines on funding.

Under the new strategic plan, LACOE will strengthen partnerships with school districts, charter schools, community colleges and local agencies to enhance student learning opportunities. There will also be a strong focus on maximizing the use of technology to increase efficiency and improve communication and information sharing with the districts.

I’d like to invite you to learn more about the LACOE Strategic Plan by visiting our website: www.lacoe.edu.

Arturo Delgado, Ed.D., was appointed superintendent of the Los Angeles County Office of Education in July of 2011. With headquarters in Downey, the Office is the nations largest regional educational agencies, providing a range of programs and services to support the county’s 80 public school districts and 2 million preschool and school-age children.

Arturo Delgado, ed.D. Superintendent

CongratulationsClass of 2014!


Torrance Education Foundationwww.torranceeducationfoundation.org

Celebrate educationBy Dee Hardison, President

On March 28, the Torrance Education Foundation (TEF) hosted their annual “Celebrate Education” Dinner. Over 400 people were present and the attendees included: Torrance Unified School Personnel, parents of TUSD students, Community leaders and business sponsors in the Community. There were many auction items donated by TUSD schools and PTAs, as well as many local businesses. The culmination of the evening was the drawing of the winner of a 2014 Lexus RX 350, with Fern Elementary School parent, Ed Vaimoso, being chosen as the winner of the car. The money generated by the ticket sales, $80,000.00, will be used to support TUSD programs.

In addition, the 2013-2014 TEF scholarship winners were honored at a reception on April 23 at the Toyota Automotive Museum, with 39 out of the 41 scholarship recipients in attendance, along with members of their families, TUSD School Superintendent, Dr. George Mannon and TUSD School Board members Martha Deutsch and Terry Ragins.

333 Continental Blvd. El Segundo, CA 90245 Monday - Saturday 10am to 6pm

SummerSale

www.matteltoystore.com 310-252-3384©2014 Mattel, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Coupon valid at all CA Toy Store locations

Expires: June 28th, 2014

*Minimum amount must be met before taxes. One coupon per customer per day.

©2014 Mattel, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

$25 FFany purchase of $75 or more*

Get Ready for

It’s a BIG deal!

Up to

It’s a BIG deal!

Not valid in conjunction with any other coupon, discount or offer, except in-store promotions on the date of purchase.Instant rebate limited to final sale price of product; coupon has no other cash value. Any other use is fraudulent.

Coupon does not apply to previous purchases. Product is limited to stock on hand; no rain checks.Coupon must be surrendered at time of purchase. Not valid for online or catalog orders. Consumer must pay any sales tax.

Valid in US stores only. Customer must hold or sign up for FREE Mattel® Toy Store membership.June 2nd - 30th

select items!70%Off

Please see our ad on the back page.


Adams Elementary2121 238th St., Torrance, CA 90501 • 310/533-4480 • adams.tusd.org

There’s No stopping Us!It has been a busy time here at John Adams. Our calendar was

quite full with many activities for our students and families.We returned to

school after spring break and immediately began piloting the Smarter Balanced Assessments. The new online testing format is aligned to the new

Common Core State Standards. Third-, fourth- and fifth-grade students used our new Chromebook laptops to take the tests.

Adams had a special visitor during Earth Week in April—Clairebell the Cow and her calf visited the campus, and students learned about the value of drinking milk and eating healthfully.

Our Carnival, sponsored by our PTA, was well attended by the community. Students, teachers and parents truly came together to support the PTA spring fund-raiser. Thank you to our event chairs, Sally Blackford and Sorah Han. Thank you for the dozens of volunteers working behind the scenes and on the scene to ensure the success of the event.

Also in April, West High hosted the Elementary Pentathlon. Our John Adams team performed very well, placing fifth among 10 elementary schools. Go Adams!

The fourth annual Golf Tournament also took place in April. Proceeds from the event will support additional technology.

And last but not least, thank you, Sharefest! In May, Life Covenant Church adopted our school-beautification project. The school looks awesome!

Kumi Toyoda-smart

Principal

Anza Elementary21400 Ellinwood Dr., Torrance, CA 90503 • 310/533-4559 • anzaelementary.org

Anza ElementaryAnza has been bustling with activity!! Anza just completed

an amazing workday with Sharefest. The Sharefest Workday is a community-building and service day that mobilized 103 volunteers of all ages to work on school projects. The work included painting murals and our Eagle logo, cleaning restrooms, planting new trees, refurbished the basketball courts, and lots of landscaping! All of this was done to beautify school for children and was completed at no cost to Anza Elementary School, thanks to the donors and supporters of Sharefest. One of the goals of

Sharefest is to create positive change in their communities and Anza is so grateful for all of their wonderful support!

barbara marksPrincipal

Arlington Elementary17800 Van Ness Ave., Torrance, CA 90504 • 310/533-4519 • arlingtonpta.com

ecological HonorIn April, Arlington Elementary was recognized by

Mayor Frank Scotto and the Torrance City Council for their participation in the Trash-Free Lunch Challenge. Although Arlington was not a finalist, we were recognized for our lunchtime aides and parent volunteers who assisted in making the program a success. A big thank-you goes out to our custodian, Daryl, as well as Diane, Miss Margaret, Carol and Janice, who helped every day to make the program work. The students and teachers along with the help of some parent volunteers

successfully reduced lunchtime trash by over 50 percent and diverted over 700 bags of trash from the landfill.

Also at this meeting, some of the students from Cheryl Thom’s fifth-grade class led the Council in the Pledge of Allegiance, using sign language they learned during their study of Helen Keller. Following the pledge, two fifth-graders, Camille DeLaMora and Nasa Kato, played “The Star Spangled Banner” on flute.

Vicki Hath, ed.D.Principal

Arnold Elementary4100 W. 227th St., Torrance, CA 90505 • 310/533-4524 • arnold.tusd.org

what a great yearOpen since 1964, Arnold Academy is a warm and inviting

community school that prides itself on academic excellence. And this year was no exception.

Our Arnold Alleycats were very busy with many fun and enriching activities. To enhance the curriculum and engage students, each of our grade levels visited one or two local attractions. The Aquarium of the Pacific, Madrona Marsh, Rancho Dominguez Adobe, Banning Museum, Mission San Juan Capistrano, Page Museum and the Armstrong Theater are just

some of the study trips we took to help bring the curriculum to life.Six of our students were recognized at the District Science Fair; our GATE

students came in third in the Academic Pentathlon; two of our students were recognized at the district-level Reflections Contest, with one going on to state; and our track team has been practicing three times a week to prepare for the upcoming district-wide meet.

On campus, we kept busy as well! In our classes we became better independent thinkers as we learned how to ask deeper-level questions and clearly explain our solutions. We wrote, experimented, read and solved challenging problems both on our own and collaboratively.

We had science, literature, history and character assemblies. We even got to pet a calf in the mobile dairy assembly. On one very special night, over 50 of our students were brave enough to share their talents with a packed house at our annual Variety Show, with the theme of “Because I am HAPPY!” What a great year it has been at Arnold Elementary!

Justine langPrincipal

Arlington recognized by Mayor scotto.


Calle Mayor Middle School4800 Calle Mayor, Torrance, CA 90505 • 310/533-4548 • callemayor.tusd.org

Students and parents learn About life Saving Almost 100 Calle Mayor Students had an opportunity to attend

this amazing event which taught them hands only CPR. Torrance Memorial Medical Center, American Heart Association, Torrance Fire Department and Ms. Gebel (Calle Mayor Life Management Teacher) helped organize and support this worthwhile student and community event. Students that attended this event received a CPR practice kit to help them perfect and practice their newly learned skills. Moving forward and with the support of our business partner, Torrance Memorial Medical Center, Calle Mayor

is in the process of adding CPR certification to its Life Management Curriculum and an AED to the campus in an effort to increase our campus and community safety and emergency preparedness.

Dave MosleyPrincipal

Casimir Middle School17220 Casimir Ave., Torrance, CA 90504 • 310/533-4498 • casimir.tusd.org

ileADSeveral years ago, all Torrance Middle School created iLEAD

programs at their schools. These programs were designed to foster leadership and stimulate student interest in college and career goals. We have had several years of working with a small group—10 girls and 10 boys—toward these goals.

This year, Casimir decided to expand our activities to include leadership and teaching opportunities for our students. Casimir’s iLEAD team began planning team-building activities to teach to first- and second-grade students at Arlington and Lincoln.

We have had two visits to Arlington, and they were a success. Casimir students learned how to lead and interact with younger students, and they also provided time for the Arlington teachers to collaborate. The iLEAD students are eager to take what they have learned to Lincoln and work with the children there as well.

Susie HolmesPrincipal

Gary Lam DDS2370 Crenshaw Blvd, Torrance, CA 90501

www.TorranceStarDental.com

(310) 328.9888

Complete visual exam for decay, loose fillings, chips and cracks.

Check for gum health and age appropriate orthodontic treatment.

TMJ test to ensure no jaw and chewing pain.

Tips on proper brushing and flossing to prevent cavities.

Unsubscribe | Privacy policy

We treat you like family...

Dental exam for new patients:$1 Donation to your PTA!

We welcome adults too!!!

ST R DENTAL



(310) 328.9888









ST R DENTAL



(310) 328.9888









ST R DENTAL

,Gary Lam DDS2370 Crenshaw Blvd, Torrance, CA 90501


(310) 328.9888









ST R DENTAL

-


Carr Elementary3404 W. 168th St., Torrance, CA 90504 • 310/533-4467 • carr.tusd.org

Our Busy scheduleThe month of May is always a busy time for the entire Carr

community! We celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week in early May. Teachers received a vase and a flower every day that week so that they could have a nice bouquet by Friday.

Then, teachers on Thursday of that week were treated to a luncheon hosted by the PTA. As you can see, the teachers at Carr are pampered well by the parents! During this time also, each fifth-grader presented a report and dressed up like one of the presidents when making their presentation. On a single day, we

had Barack Obama, Dwight Eisenhower, Bill Clinton and Calvin Coolidge on campus! Many parents came to hear their children’s presentations.

Also in May, Carr carried out the Smarter Balanced Field Testing in grades three through five. Later in the month, Carr’s Open House started at lunchtime with students and guests having a picnic on our lawn. We had a DJ who provided musical entertainment during the picnic. After lunch, parents and guests visited the classrooms and saw what the students have been doing all year. The PTA then opened the book-fair room so that parents and other guests could have an opportunity to buy books for themselves and for their children. The Book Fair remained open for a week.

Everyone at Carr looked forward to the busy month of May!

Dick petersonPrincipal

Edison Elementary3800 W. 182nd St., Torrance, CA 90504 • 310/533-4513 • edison.tusd.org

Embracing TechnologyEdison Elementary School students are excited about

technology! Over the past several years Edison has been acquiring more tablets and notebooks for blended learning projects within and outside of the classroom. With their site purchases and the addition of the newly leased netbooks provided by the district, Edison is progressing toward their goal of a one-to-one ratio of students to devices.

Teachers have sought training on eTUSD tools, Google Docs, and other applications in order to infuse technology and help

prepare students for success in college and the workplace. Students have engaged in projects utilizing eTUSD, Google Docs, Khan Academy, Prezi and more to infuse learning with technology. In addition, students have been able to attend after-school enrichment classes on coding and Web design, with the help of teachers and knowledgeable parents. They are becoming quite savvy users of technology!

erin lahrPrincipal

Fern Elementary1314 Fern Ave., Torrance, CA 90503 • 310/533-4506 • fern.tusd.org

It’s a Chemical Reaction!On March 5, the Fern School fifth-graders were excited and

tantalized by science experiments performed “right before their eyes” in our own cafeteria. In the first experiment, the docent poured liquid from a “magic pitcher,” which appeared to be clear water that changed colors to red, yellow, purple, and green as the liquid was poured into separate, empty, see-through, plastic cups. We learned that two drops of the base ammonia were added to each cup, which created the color-changing chemical reaction. Using an invisible base indicator acid in other cups neutralized

the liquid and changed the colored water back into clear water.The docent showed the students another experiment. How about putting a

head of purple cabbage in a blender with a universal solvent—water? You get a deep purple liquid, right? Pour that mixture out of the container into a clear, plastic cup coated with vinegar or ammonia. It will turn pink and, voila! You have another chemical reaction. Other experiments included using ordinary dry ingredients, such as baking soda, sugar, and salt.

The students learned science vocabulary, such as base, acid, viscous, and exothermic reaction, just to name a few words. They also learned three ways to see a chemical reaction: changes in color; changes in temperature; and changes in form.

Valerie williamsPrincipal

Jefferson Middle School21717 Talisman St., Torrance, CA 90503 • 310/533-4794 • jefferson.tusd.org

College boundAs part of college and career awareness, Jefferson Middle

School eighth grade students took the ACT Explore test on April 28th. This assessment is an early indicator of college readiness, an effective tool for planning high school classes, and a helpful long-term career planning program. EXPLORE measures students’ academics in the areas of English, Reading, Mathematics, and Science. In addition, the assessment consists of an ACT Interest Iventory, which assists students investigate career options that currently appeal to them. We had over 150

students in the 8th grade class of 2014 take this rigorous examination.One of our lucky 6th grade students was the recipient of a scholarship

for free orthodonic care from one of LA County’s top orthodontists. Joshua Holloman was selected and will be “paying it forward” as he invests 40 hours of community service during his first year of treatment.

lee lee ChouPrincipal

Jefferson mS mUn students at their annual conference.


Hickory Elementary2800 W. 227th St., Torrance, CA 90505 • 310/533-4672 • w1.hickory.tusd.org

Growing Trees of Imagination and Knowledge:This spring has been a flurry of activity for the Hickory

Hounds. In March we celebrated the completion of our extensive modernization project. Students – current, past, and future, joined teachers, staff, distinguished guests, and parents for an unveiling of the upgraded campus. Part of our vision for the 21st century Hickory Elementary School was a improved library center, which would have the theme of “Growing Trees of Imagination and Knowledge”.

In order to fulfill its vision of creating an inviting library space that promotes learning through reading and exploration, the

Hickory PTA applied for the IKEA “Life Improvement Challenge” grant and won! We won because of the immense support from our Hickory community and neighbors. The grant will allow the school to completely remodel the library with new shelving, furniture, and seating. We are so excited for the improved library space which will allow our young learners the opportunity to delve into new adventures through books and multi-media resources.

Hickory Elementary School is very fortunate to have a passionate group of parents and community supporters who are constantly providing the students with resources and learning opportunities. Our library is managed by dedicated volunteers who spend countless hours providing a vital services for our students.

edna Schumacher

Principal

J.H. Hull Middle School3420 W. 229th Pl., Torrance, CA 90505 • 310/533-4516 • hull.tusd.org

expanding STemOur activities- project-and problem-based STEM learning

program will expand next year. Current foundational courses are Design and Modeling, including computer programming, solid modeling software, sketching techniques, and creation of 3-D models with a 3-D printer; and Automation and Robotics, featuring mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine/robotic animation, and computer control systems. New courses are Magic of Electrons for exploring the science of electricity through hands-on projects, circuit design and sensing devices; and Flight

and Space for exploring the science behind aeronautics and using knowledge to design, build and test a model glider.

Our program motivates our students to use their imagination and teaches them to be creative and innovative. Students develop new skills for success in future engineering classes as they enter high school.

We are extremely fortunate to have teacher Megan Wareham and math coach Shari Kaku to provide enrichment for our students. They have been meeting weekly with this core group and have provided a rigorous, challenging after-school class for sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-graders to advance their math skills. Two teams will be compete in the fourth annual Torrance Regional Middle School Math Competition made up of 165 “Mathletes” from 19 area schools. Our students have worked on problem solving, critical thinking and applying knowledge and skills to real-life applications.

We must remember that more than 80 percent of tomorrow’s jobs will require skills in disciplines related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics. We want to make sure that our students are prepared to take part in these in-demand fields.

Barry laffertyPrincipal

Lincoln Elementary2418 W. 166th St., Torrance, CA 90504 • 310/533-4464 • lincoln.tusd.org

The Importance of giving backAs part of Lincoln Elementary School’s commitment to

educating the “whole child,” we believe that it is critical to instill in our students the importance of being grateful for what you have and sharing it by giving back to the community and helping those with needs greater than your own. We do this by having our Lincoln Lions engage in community service projects throughout the year that support local businesses and/or organizations with community outreach efforts.

One of these projects is done annually in conjunction with Read Across America Week. Our school highlights a Dr. Seuss

book, which becomes the focus of our service project. This year, Lincoln highlighted Dr. Seuss’ book Diffendoofer Day, which is about a school that celebrates its unusual teachers and curriculum despite the woes of high stakes testing. In keeping with the theme of the book, our students collected school supplies to be used in support of our district’s Project Bringing Our Students Supplies (BOSS) program; in true lion spirit, over 2,800 school supplies were collected for donation. Awesome!

In the past we highlighted The Tooth Book and collected over 1,700 toothbrushes, tubes of toothpaste, and dental floss all of which were donated to our local Salvation Army. The year we highlighted Fox in Socks, our school community collected over 1,400 pairs of socks, which were donated to a local faith-based organization that provides food and clothing to the homeless.

Valuable lessons have been learned through these project of giving!

Katherine Castleberry

Principal

LAUNCH Preschool Programs4100 W. 227th St., Torrance, CA 90505 • 310/972-6500x2550 • launch.tusd.org

Spring Showers of exciting eventsSpring has been incredibly eventful at LAUNCH. In March

the Torrance Police Department brought their vehicles and took pictures with our students. Staff used their Tustin Education Foundation money to bring a drum circle to campus for four performances!

April began with a concert from children’s performer Charlotte Diamond. LAUNCH teachers fund-raised to bring Charlotte to our campus. Children from Torrance Tykes and Arnold Elementary School also participated.

Next up was our annual Spring Fling. PTA sponsored a trike- a –thon, and our students put the rubber to the road. We also had a rocket science assembly that was almost literally to the moon.

We closed out the month with our first annual open house carnival. LAUNCH staff designed booths, sold pizza and goodies, and took pictures. About 40 student volunteers from Calle Mayor Middle School operated booths and helped out. The event was fun for everyone!

elaine Semple phD, bCbA

Principal

Have a great summer.

Remember to read!


Lynn Middle School 5038 Halison St., Torrance, CA 90503 • 310/533-4495 • bertlynn.tusd.org

Three Teams Ready to Win!After weeks of intense practice, Bert Lynn Middle School is

ready with three amazing teams for this year’s competition. With school pride at stake all competitors will meet at J.H. Hull in an academic arena filled with tables, paper and pencils. Yes, it’s our district-wide math competition. Teams from all over TUSD will compete for fun and bragging rights. We are very pleased to announce several of our “mathletes” placed within the top 1% of the nation within the AMC (American Math Competition), and we await final scores from this year’s International Math Olympiad.

(See more about this year’s winners at www.bertlynn.com)

leRoy Jackson Jr.Principal

Madrona Middle School21364 Madrona Ave., Torrance, CA 90503 • 310/533-4562 • madrona.tusd.org

Moving ForwardMadrona Middle School has provided some recent STEAM

activities for its students, with multiple events on and off the site. STEAM stands for science, technology, energy, arts and math.

The Science Olympiad students recently produced our annual Family Science Night. There were a wide variety of fun and friendly experiments, including Ice Cream Creation, Static Electric Flying Saucers (using your hands, hair and a balloon to move a saucer across the room), Squid Dissection (writing in squid ink), Straw Rockets (creating and competing in distance

using paper, clay and straw), Dry Ice Bubbles, and Odd Ooblecks, a mysterious substance that turns from a liquid to a solid within a matter of minutes.

Madrona’s band and choir performed in the Central Area Music Festival. They also participated in workshops during the day, and performed with the Torrance High and J. H. Hull music departments to perform in an evening concert finale.

Finally, our drama class recently enjoyed two field trips, one to Torrance High School to enjoy a production of High School Musical, and another to the James Armstrong Theater for a production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid. These two trips inspired our students to produce and perform Don’t Stop Believin’ on our campus, a run that concluded in May.

As Madrona continues to move forward with a full array of STEAM electives, we anticipate being able to participate in and produce more of these community events. We hope that our families and neighbors will enjoy coming to these activities to watch our students perform.

Chris lipseyPrincipal

North High School3620 W. 182nd St., Torrance, CA 90504 • 310/533-4412 • northhighschool.org

Focused on student AchievementThe North High faculty and staff are collaborative, dedicated,

skilled and an enthusiastic team, deeply committed to improving student achievement. Students are encouraged to participate in challenging activities that promote learning, diversity awareness, safety, health, teamwork, and mutual respect. The primary goal of the faculty and staff is to prepare the diverse student body to develop thinking skills and personal characteristics that will prepare them for college, careers and success in the 21st Century.

In March of 2014, a team of educators visited North High School and met over several days with NHS students, parents

and staff as part of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accreditation process. The WASC team found that North High is an extremely friendly, encouraging and academically challenging environment where dynamic learning takes place everyday. NHS students are provided the

opportunity to learn about potential careers and college choices and are encouraged to contribute to the local community. More than 50 clubs and on-campus organizations are open to NHS students that allow students to get involved and make a positive impact.

Dr. ron richardson

Principal

Magruder Middle School4100 W. 185th St., Torrance, CA 90504 • 310/533-4527 • magruder.tusd.org

mustang momentsMustang Moments happen everyday at Magruder. They are

the moments when students live to their potential; the moments when students care more about others than themselves. In a world full of bad news and reports of bullying, it is important to recognize the goodness that is sometimes missed or maybe unnoticed.

As part of OUR Mustang Moment program at Magruder, we look for and celebrate the times when students go above and beyond expectations and make the right decision, even when they

think no one is watching. Someone is always watching! So, each day during school announcements one of these observed “acts of goodness” is chosen, highlighted and publicly acknowledged and recognized.

It is truly magical to see how much it means to ALL students, when they come to the realization that their classmates care enough about each other to perform these “acts of goodness.” Some may say these acts are random, but at Magruder we say our students are intentional about being good to one another, and Magruder is therefore intentional about recognizing this goodness in our students.

Chris SheckPrincipal

One of our many student clubs— India, Pakistan, sri lanka Club.mustang moments


Richardson Middle School23751 Nancy Lee Lane, Torrance, CA 90505 • 310/533-4790 • richardsonmiddleschool.org

Coming Together to HelpRMS teachers, staff, parents and community members have

come together over many years to create a learning environment that rewards positive behavior and encourages our students to be responsible, respectful and safe.

The RMS staff takes a proactive approach at continually improving the school’s climate and culture to support all students’ social-emotional needs, rather than a reactionary discipline approach focused on consequences through our Positive School Culture plan.

This year RMS students have been a part of our Positive Behavior Day, Positive Behavior Assembly, Positive Behavior Classroom Talks, Red Ribbon Week, Student Recognition Assemblies, and Character Education Assembly. In addition, 155 students have been recognized as Students of the Month, 32 as “Hidden Gems,” 54 for “Leading by Example,” 57 for “Making a Difference,” 124 have won prizes for receiving a Rattlesnake Reward (which is given for being caught doing something positive on campus), and several hundred have achieved Honor Roll each quarter.

Within the scope of developing positive character and self-identity, we also spend time discussing and practicing service learning. This past November the RMS community quickly came together to help the victims of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. In four days our students organized an assistance effort with their “Relief for Haiyan Drive.” We collected six pallets of donated supplies as well as $3,500.

In December, RMS teachers adopted 22 families in need through the Richstone Family Center, collecting clothing, food, school supplies and toys. Our school motto is “Excellence of Mind, Strength of Character.” And we don’t take it lightly!

Chad MaberyPrincipal

Riviera Elementary365 Paseo de Arena, Torrance, CA 90505 • 310/533-4460 • riviera.tusd.org

A Timeline for our SchoolIn Riviera’s 62nd year as a Torrance School, our community

is excited about campus modernization. Phase I began in May in the library’s computer lab wing. Summer work—Phase II—will include the office, cafeteria, 4/5 wing, modular wing and site work. The campus and YMCA will be closed this summer so that a large portion of construction can be done before students return in September. Construction will continue in the fall and, from start to finish, should take approximately one year.

The scope of work will include new flooring and ceilings; new paint improvement in lighting; fire alarms and data; new windows, doors and roofing; improvements in plumbing and drainage as well as on the playground; new modular classroom buildings; and new concrete, landscape and irrigation.

Riviera Elementary School opened in 1952. The 10-acre lot, originally bought in 1950 for $25,000, is set in the hills of Hollywood Riviera. The school serves the area of Torrance bordered to the north by the PCH, to the west by the beach, to the south by Calle de Arboles and to the east by Hawthorne Boulevard. The school’s eight buildings/wings and 30 classrooms cover 36,421 square feet. Originally, Riviera was a K–8 school site and at its peak enrollment had 921 students. In 1956, the Riviera student body was split in half to become two schools: Riviera Elementary and Newton Middle School, which is now named Richardson.

Today, Riviera has 680 students, 70 staff members and 23 K–5 classrooms, with seven classrooms housing our library, computer lab, intervention teachers and learning centers, for a total of 30 classrooms.

Look for updates on construction completion next school year. Be sure to stop by to see Riviera’s modernized campus.

Christie ForsheyPrincipal

Leadership Word Search ContestOne word in the list is NOt in the word search.

When you have completed the word search, one word will be left and that word you email to: [email protected] (Please put torrance in the subject line)

Rules!!!

Entries must be received by July 15, 2014From the correct entries one name will be drawn to win

a $20 gift certificate redeemable at Barnes & Noble.

AccomplishedCaringConfidentDeterminationDriveEnthusiasticFocusedIndependentInitiativeIntelligent

OrganizedPowerfulResponsibilityRole ModelStrong WilledSuitableTeamworkTrustworthyUnderstanding

Word Search by Gunnar Coop


Seaside Elementary4651 Sharynne Lane, Torrance, CA 90505 • 310/533-4532 • seaside.tusd.org

Running for FunOne thing that makes a school special is a close knit community.

Every year, Seaside Elementary School hosts a jog-a-thon and family picnic on the school’s expansive, 12-acre campus. All family members are welcome for this fun and healthy community tradition.

This year’s event was held with avid participation from all. Disc jockey DJ Dewey (Duane Miller) attended, as he always does, providing music and announcements. DJ Dewey’s attendance is really special because he sent his own children to Seaside long ago, and he continues to be involved in Seaside’s

school life. The CARE Committee employees from one of Seaside’s business partners also came, providing the students with cold treats after their many laps around the field. This committee dedicates its time and resources for the benefit of our students. They are a fine example of how our Torrance community steps up to support one another.

michele bauerPrincipal

Torrance Elementary2125 Lincoln Ave., Torrance, CA 90501 • 310/533-4500 • torranceel.tusd.org

A golden Touch to learningImplementing the Common Core Standards has been

challenging, but it has also given our teachers the opportunity to integrate and deepen their students’ understanding.

For example, what better way to culminate the study of Greek Mythology than to dramatize the stories as the Greeks did in the “Ancient Greek Chorus”? This month our fourth-grade students at Torrance Elementary will be doing just that.

Greek Mythology was one of the vehicles used to guide the fourth-graders to an understanding of the meaning of words,

and their allusions to characters in mythological stories. This Common Core Standard was only one of many standards that were met by using this area of study.

The fourth-grade teachers discovered that while producing plays may seem like a “Herculean task,” and that the study of the gods may seem like a “Labyrinth” of characterizations, the dramatization of the myths was like giving the students the “Golden Touch” to understanding our language in a historical and very exciting context.

Dr. Kelly JosephPrincipal

Shery High School2600 Vine St., Torrance, CA 90501 • 310/533-4440 • shery.tusd.org

Shery High School was very proud to have two recipients in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Visions of Unity Arts Contest. They competed against all the high schools in Torrance, including SoCal ROC. In the Fine Arts category, Nefit Sanchez received the third place award while Kayla Gardner was awarded Honorable Mention. Both students received certificates as well as a monetary reward.

Kayla’s work was inspired by her mother who is an artist herself. She is especially found of the work of artist Mitchell Freeman. Kayla hopes to further study art and one day work

in a museum or art gallery. Nefit has been influenced by the Native American lifestyle and culture. He would like to continue to create original pieces and hopes to attend the Young Artist’s Academy. We are so proud of their success and hope they will continue to grow their artistic talents.

Jamie JimenezPrincipal

South High School4801 Pacific Coast Highway, Torrance, CA 90505 • 310/533-4352 • shs.tusd.org

Congratulations to Coach Portia Rivera and the South High School Speech and Debate Team on their outstanding performance throughout the season, culminating in an impressive showing at the California High School Speech Association State Tournament held on April 25-27 in Modesto, California. South High had a record 18 students in 10 events qualify for the State Championships. At the State Tournament, Shreyas Tirumala placed 2nd in the state, for the second year in a row, in Impromptu Speaking. Shreyas Tirumala and Brian Ruben tied for 3rd place in Parliamentary Debate. Luka Stojcic placed

12th in Original Prose and Peotry. And Eliza Faloona placed 13th in the state in Dramatic Interpretation.

To qualify for the state tournament, South High won the Western Bay Forensics League Championship, winning a record 8 different individual league titles. League Champions were:

Shreyas Tirumala – Impromptu SpeakingShreyas Tirumala – International ExtemporaneousJillian Free – National ExtemporaneousKaren Chang – ExpositoryBradley Nothern – Humorous InterpretationEliza Faloona – Thematic InterpretationAnnie Hsu and Sara Nam – Public Forum DebateJillian Free and Ogechi Obed – Parliamentary DebateThere are 45 students who participate in Speech and Debate at South High.

The class meets daily at 7am in the library, and is full of outstanding, highly committed students. It is no surprise that this year’s seniors are all attending prestigious universities that have included Harvard, Yale, Stanford, UCLA and Berkeley. Congratulations to all of our Speech and Debate students on a hard-earned, job well done this year!

Scott mcDowellPrincipal


Towers Elementary5600 Towers St., Torrance, CA 90503 • 310/533-4535 • towers.tusd.org

Career DayIn February, Towers Elementary School had its annual Career

Day. This was a day where parents from our community came and spoke about their professional careers. Each class heard three different speakers.

This year, the jobs ranged from doctors, lawyers, police officers, and fire fighters to a United States Secret Service agent, an Air Force officer, a steel construction worker, and a ski patrol officer. During the presentation from the emergency room doctor, the students were able to look at and handle some of the tools a doctor uses. Some of the students participated in a mock trial and

heard a lawyer speak about her career. The students were the judge, district attorney, and jury. Other students learned interesting facts, such as 3,000 cans of soda can be filled in one minute at the manufacturing plant.

Career Day was very exciting and informative. Students look forward to Career Day every year!

sandy skoraPrincipal

Torrance High School2200 W. Carson St., Torrance, CA 90501 • 310/533-4396 • ths.tusd.org

Torrance High’s Debate is in its tenth year under the leadership of Mrs. Lesley Sluyter. The program has grown from 11 students in year one to 46 strong debaters in year ten.

THS, over the last 10 years, has qualified over 70 students for the state championship, including three in 2014. Jorrel Javier finished 4th in the state in Original Prose and Poetry. He is our highest finisher since 2008 when Natasha Huey took second in the same category.

Some other highlights from their Western Bay Forensics League 2013-14 season include:

9/13 1st place sweeps in Individual Speech Events

9/13 1st place sweeps in Student Congress



2/14 1st place sweeps in Debate

2/14 1st place sweeps in Individual Speech Events.

Karim GirgisPrincipal

Torrance Adult School2606 W. 182nd St., Torrance, CA 90504 • 310/533-4689 ext. 8400 • www.tastusd.org

Congratulations graduatesTorrance Adult School (TAS) supports the entire family

from pre-kindergarten through retirement with a large variety of offerings. Each year the Adult School hosts a graduation ceremony for those students who have successfully completed their courses and are now ready to start the next exciting phase of their careers and life. This year we are proud that 170 students successfully complete their GED or High School diploma.

TAS classes are both affordable and available at various locations for added convenience. Summer is almost here and we will continue to offer summer registration for every member of

your family through the middle of July. Do something educational, fun, and new this summer by taking a summer course at TAS. Course offerings include online high school, CTE computer classes, parenting, exercise, and learning English. The summer class schedules will be provided at all the sites and will be posted on the TAS website - tastusd.org.

Dr. Wayne DiulioDirector

Victor Elementary4820 Spencer St., Torrance, CA 90503 • 310/533-4542 • victor.tusd.org

Cultural DiversityOn May 1st, Victor staff and families celebrated our cultural

diversity with our annual International Potluck hosted by our PTA. Over fifty families decorated their food booth with items that reflected their culture. Food from Korea, Japan, China, India, Lebanon, Mexico, South America, Finland, Germany, the Czech Republic, and the USA was shared by the families. Our PTA and teachers created opportunity baskets that were raffled off at the end of the evening. Proceeds from the raffle ticket sales provide scholarships for two Victor alumni graduating from West

High in June who were both recognized at this event. A fun and tasty time was had by all!

bill bakerPrincipal


Walteria Elementary24456 Madison St., Torrance, CA 90505 • 310/533-4487 • www.walteriaelementary.org

True spirit of Our school!Walteria was one of several elementary schools that participated

in a Pentathlon at West High School. Two teachers, Mrs. Masi and Mrs. Ruth, worked with fourth- and fifth-grade students during weekly lunch meetings to prepare them for this event. This was our second time competing, and the team did well.

Another exciting event was our participation in Relay for Life in April at South High School. The weather left a lot to be desired; it was windy and cold. However, second-grade teacher Ms. Calhoun and her family stuck it out and stayed for the 24-

hour event. This resulted in her receiving the Spirit of Relay award!Also, Walteria raised over $4,000 for the American Cancer Society thanks

to our families who donated money or time to walk during this weekend event. Thanks go to Ms. Calhoun, her family, and Walteria families for their participation in Relay for Life.

Bobbie WynhoffPrincipal

Wood Elementary2250 W. 235th St., Torrance, CA 90501 • 310/533-4484 • wood.tusd.org

Howard Wood School is a California Distinguished School for the second time!

It’s official!!! On April 30, 2014 Howard Wood Elementary School was notified that we were being recognized by the State of California as a California Distinguished School for 2014. We were the only elementary school in Torrance eligible to apply and receive this prestigious award for academic excellence this year. This is the second time that Howard Wood has received this award, first in 2006 and now again in 2014. Please join me in congratulating the staff at Wood on doing what they do every day

to make Wood an awesome school and learning environment for our students. I am very proud of our staff, students, and parent community that helped to make Howard Wood a California Distinguished School!

Dr. Teresa lanpherePrincipal

West High School20401 Victor, Torrance, CA 90503 • 310/533-4299

we are proud“Oh, The Places You’ll Go!” That’s the title of a famous Dr.

Seuss book, and it describes our West High students this spring.WHS athletes went to CIF competitions and came home with

two championships. One was for girls basketball, the first for their program. The other, earned by Yoshi Funakaki, was for individual wrestling.

Chris Lee and Jeremy Giampaoli submitted a short film, and their winning entry garnered them an invitation to the White House (yes, that White House) for a student film festival. Nina

Siegel earned a spot playing English horn in the California All Student Honor Band. The Robotics Team took first place in regional competition, and then went on to the FTC World Championships in St. Louis where they placed 42nd out of over 400 teams. This was quite a feat for a rookie team.

Andrew Arteaga and Edward Huh competed in a regional rocket launch competition in San Diego, and qualified for the Team America Rocket Competition in Virginia. The Academic Decathlon team placed fifth in the LA County competition, and team member Daniel Wang was the top decathlete in the county. The All Male Hip Hop Team traveled to Fountain Valley and won their second state championship in a row.

As we say farewell to the Class of 2014 we know that their destinations will take them all over the country, from Massachusetts to Texas to Washington and up and down California. Our graduates will represent West High School well. We are proud of each of these students.

pam metzPrincipal

Yukon Elementary17815 Yukon Ave., Torrance, CA 90504 • 310/533-4477 • yukon.tusd.org

The book ClubYukon has a long and great tradition of inspiring students

to read wonderful children’s literature. Our enthusiastic and inspiring “The Children’s Book Club” is headed by Mrs. Sniegowski, and is supported by our entire faculty, with Mrs. Godoy being her most faithful helper!

Here a book is selected, the children read it on their own, and then they attend a “book talk” during their lunch recess, where the discussions and enthusiasm for literature could compete with Oprah’s Book Club hands down! We choose three or four books to

talk about during the school year.Mrs. Sniegowski and faculty supporters always make these book talks a

memorable event. Food and festivities prevail in addition to the literary insights and wonderful camaraderie that are always a part of these moments. For example, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe generated not only special food, costumes and great discussions, but also a Yukon trip to the movies on Friday night. Our Yukon families enjoyed a night at the movies to watch one of their favorite books come to life on the screen.

So many great books have been discussed: The Tale of Despereaux, Old Yeller and Stone Fox, to name just a few. Very modern authors and popular children’s books are also included. Our current selection is The Homework Machine, by Dan Gutman.

The Book Club is just another way that our dedicated faculty works to provide enjoyment, excellence and quality in learning, despite the financially difficult times that we in education wrestle with very day.

elaine wassilPrincipal

walteria wildcats pentathlon Team and Teacher Coaches.


Note-ables

Buy One Get One Flea, Dog on FleasFor some time, creators and performers of young people’s

music have been dispensing with the cheap, synthetic sound of electronic tracks and replacing them with real live instruments. I’m surely not the only one who’s delighted beyond words. Dog on Fleas is one of the groups that plays in its own band, called the Backyard Dorchestra; the combo includes but is not limited to a sousaphone, duck calls, a bass drum, a bassoon, a clarinet and several kazoos. The wacky instrumentation and the wordplayful monikers of group and band indicate one slaphappily good CD.

The content is composed of songs original, familiar and obscure. Imagine, if you will, “Over the Waves” and the “Grand March” from the opera Aida played solely by kazoos, albeit skillfully. The original songs, written by Grammy Award-winning producer and band member Dean Jones, are based on themes that both child and parent will appreciate. “Hundredaires” is about the joys and disadvantages of a simpler life and a lighter wallet. “It’s a Ruse” warns about things that seem too good to be true and likely are. “Pardon My Pajamas”—well, who hasn’t longed to spend an entire day in jammies?

And “Hinterlands” is plain wonderful—brilliantly arranged and tuneful, with an energy that you can jump on and ride. You’re certain to get an itch for Fleadom.

Kate Karp is an editor for School News Roll Call and a freelance writer and editor.

Kate Karp

www.matteltoystore.com

Hugeavings

Please see our ad on page 5.

Swim Lessons • PBC Camp • Sport Specialty Camps in Tennis and Archery • Horsemanship • Academic Enrichment, and our Tween Program AdventureTrek. Transportation, Extended Day

and Lunches are available. Phone: (310) 541-3664

www.pbcdaycamp.com


Early bird 20% Discount ― Limited time offer!Full day, week long camps from 9am to 3pm

Extended hours available at no additional charge

Summer Band Camps

1806 Artesia Blvd. (near Aviation Blvd.)(310) 379-2288

SouthBayLA.SchoolofRock.com

FUN

Summer 2014 Indoor Camps

Locations/Dates

The Summer program is designed to introduce new players to a wonderful volleyball experience, and build the skills of Intermediate players to be ready to compete at the next level.

Advanced 14 & Under & High School Indoor Clinics, and beach programs are also available. Our coaches have High School and College volleyball experience, and are very aware of what is expected at these levels.

Financial Assistance Available for children/players with fi nancial needsApplications, Directions or more info? Please connect to

BeachCitiesVBC.com or call 310-546-9150The Mission Statement of Beach Cities Volleyball is to “teach life skills and volleyball skills to young people from 7 to 18”

Beach Cities Volleyball Club is a non-profi t 501(c) (3) corporation in good standing with the Internal Revenue Service & California Franchise Tax BoardAll donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Federal I.D. #91-2163900

• Great Student to Coach Ratio: Usually six to one or better• Campers placed in groups of similar age & experience• Priorities: Have Fun, Build Volleyball Skills, Have fun!• Coaches: Strong role models and strong volleyball coaches

• Ten week-long Beginning Camps (age 7 & up) for those starting up• Ten Intermediate Camps (age 11 – 16) for those with some experience• Week-long Camps are 8:30 am to 4 pm, including lunch – $450• Week-long half day camps are 8:30 to 11:30 am or 1 to 4 pm – $250

• Week 1: July 14th – 18th: American Martyrs Gym, 1701 Laurel Ave,Manhattan Beach, or Oak Street Gym, 1780 Oak Street,Torrance **

• Week 2: July 21st – 25th: LA Galaxy Soccer City, 540 Maple Avenue, Torrance

• Week 3: July 28th – August 1st: American Martyrs Gym,Manhattan Beach, or Oak Street Gym, Torrance **

• Week 4: August 4th – 8th: Westside Neighborhood School Gym, 5401 Beethoven St, Playa Vista or Christ Lutheran School Gym, 28850 Western Ave, Rancho Palos Verdes **

• Week 5: August 11th – 15th: Oak Street Gym, 1780 Oak Street, Torrance

**Please sign up for the location most convenient for you

On The Run

Foot Injuries at the BeachWith summertime here again, it is appropriate to alert beach-

goers about the potential for injury in the sand and in the ocean. For various reasons, there are reports of increased foot and leg injuries affecting unsuspecting visitors to the beaches of southern California.

Walking in sand barefoot may be a unique and joyful experience, but some caution should be considered. Unfortunately, our beaches may be filled with debris, such as broken glass, torn aluminum cans, and even hypodermic needles.

The use of sandals can minimize the risk of a laceration or puncture wound from a potential hazard buried beneath the sand.

In the ocean, natural wildlife may pose a threat to your feet and legs. Jellyfish abound in the waters off California. A jellyfish sting can be annoying, if not painful, but can be quickly remedied by applying rubbing alcohol to the affected area.

Sting ray injuries can be far more painful, and they seem to be on the rise along California beaches. To avoid these injuries, shuffle your feet in the sand as you walk slowly in and out of the water. If you have the misfortune of getting stung by one of these creatures, your best remedy is to soak the affected foot and leg in a bucket of very hot water (100–105 degrees F) for 30 minutes, then repeat once every hour until the pain subsides. Occasionally, antibiotic therapy will be needed as a follow-up treatment, so seek the advice of your physician.

Dr. Doug Richie is a sports podiatrist who has practiced in Seal Beach for 32 years. He is president of the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine and serves as a medical advisor to U.S. A. Track and Field. 562/493-2451

Dr. Doug richie


Camp features:Former Los Angeles Clippers practice facilityState of the art facilityAir conditionedNationally accredited coaches10 - 1 ratio (player - coach)Indoor heated poolGuest speakersGuaranteed to increase your basketball IQ

To Register:Download Registration at:

www.schoolofskills.net(for daily schedule)

Summer Camp 2014Boys & Girls • 7 - 13 yearsMonday – Friday • 9:00am - 3:00pm

Session 1: July 14 – 18Session 2: August 11 – 15 Location: Spectrum Club (Clippers Court)

2250 Park PlaceEl Segundo, CA 90245(310) 643-6878

Cost: $299 per session$550 for both$60 per day

Discount: $25 early registration discount(June 1, 2014)$25 second sibling

Contact: [email protected](800) 595-0838

Teaching Skills for Life

3737 Torrance Blvd. #206 Torrance CA *Wide variety of music classes

*Fine Arts classes

• Ages 4 and up• Math and English Program• Aligned with CA Common Core

Curriculum• Develop Basic Arithmetic and

Critical Thinking skills:• Develop Fundamental Skills:

Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking

• Individualized program to meet each student’s needs

• Improve Study Habits

• Math Competition Prep• PSAT/ SAT/ ACT Prep• Math Classes for all levels• English Literature,

Grammar/ WritingWorkshops, Book Club, News Reading

• Enrichment in History/ Social Studies and Science

[email protected]. 310-792-7714

www.Jubilateacademy.comTel. 310-221-1716

Valid at Jubilate Academy only. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Expires June 30, 2014.

(310) 791-11113614 Pacific Coast Hwy. • Torrance, CA 90505

Southbaydriving.com

Online and Classroom Available

Proud Sponsor of Your School for Over 20 Years!

One coupon per student

South Bay Driving School

$20 Off$20 Off

The Value of Camp for Every Child

What happens when you make the decision to choose a camp?

You open up a world of discovery and learning for your child,

a world that values children for who they are and who they will become.

Camp gives each child a world of good.

Ask Dr. Shari

good for the mind & great for the HeartThe way we choose to spend our time and the activities in

which we engage help form our value system. With a wide array of possibilities and opportunities, volunteering is a positive and vastly beneficial way of helping young people develop a strong sense of self.

Volunteering offers benefits spanning from the intellectual and spiritual to the educational and professional. As young people give of themselves and their time, they can learn about being selfless. In a busy world of “pursuit of personal happiness,” too often the intrinsic values of empathy and giving are the

lessons that are overlooked. Helping others via a structured volunteer program is a positive and safe way to develop oneself in this regard.

Additional Benefits of Volunteerism:• Learning: Acquiring a new trade or skill can help teens see the world in a bigger picture and be inspired to continue to expand intellectually.• Networking: Volunteering brings people of like minds, interests and values together. This will inevitably lead to positive interaction and healthy relationships.• Building the Résumé: Engaging in service to others and taking the initiative to learn new trades or skills is a brilliant way to expand your portfolio. This is especially beneficial for students and young professionals.• Personal Growth: As Mahatma Gandhi said, “The best way to find yourself, is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Teens who experience growth at an early age are likely to continue cultivating positive behavior and friendships.

Motivational Speaker, Founder of The Brainpower Programs for Schools, Author, Consultant, Radio Host contact: [email protected], www.doctorshari.com, twitter: DrShariS, Youtube: Dr. ShariS, LinkedIN: Dr. Shari Sweetnam

Dr. Shari Sweetnam


summer Fun Word search Contest

AwesomeBarbequeBeachFireworksFunHotIce CreamLemonade

LessonsLifeguardPicnicsPoolPopsiclesSandSummerSunny

SunscreenSurfingSwimmingVacationVolleyballWaterWave

Entries must be received July 15, 2014From the correct entries one name will be drawn to win

a $20 gift certificate redeemable at Barnes & Noble.

One word in the list is NOt in the word search.When you have completed the word search, one word will be left and that word you

email to: [email protected] (Please put tUSD in the subject line)

Rules!!!

Congratulations Contest Winners:M.A. Day and Matthew Setian

Positive Parenting

gearing Up for SummerFor some parents, the arrival of summer means less stress

because the school schedule is not a part of the daily routine. For other parents, having the children home all day every day is stressful. Whichever arena you are in, the reality of life is that summer vacation is almost here for the traditional schools.

Children may get more wound up, more disagreeable, more difficult to manage as the start of summer gets closer. Change is stressful, even if it is for the better. The break in routine is stressful for children and adults. It is advisable to keep your discipline strong so that you glide into summer with boundaries

in place. Consistent boundaries will also help your child to contain his or her behavior and to feel safe.

My discipline system is mentioned on parentingsos.com and my book, Don’t Feed the Dragon, is a discipline manual divided into three sections:

(1) what parents need to understand about children in order to successfully guide them; (2) my discipline system, and (3) answers to 130 of the top concerns of parents, listed in alphabetical order. The book is age-appropriate from tots through the teens and is available on parentingsos.com.

Having your discipline system in place, it is wise to sit down as a family and make a list of things that can be done during free time. The list may be posted in a place where children can use it as a reference. To quell the endless, “I’m bored” message that children who are not used to having non-structured time often begin chanting when school ends, offer two choices: “You may refer to the chart that we created or I will choose a chore off the chores chart that will help you dispel boredom.” This plan might allow you to have your whole house cleaned in the first week of summer!

Summer is a wonderful time to train your darling children to do chores. Finally, they have time—the constant excuse during school months! Children will leave home some day—I promise!—and when they do, they need to know how to take care of a house and themselves. Chores teach a child that a house does not clean itself and how to do fundamental tasks, such as clean a toilet. If you have a housekeeper, create a space each week that the children are responsible for in terms of upkeep and give the tidiness angel one less area to clean.

It is important that children are not in so many activities that their lives become stressful. Children need time to be children! If you want your child to be successful in school, have at least a half hour a day that is devoted to school skills. If each child took a 30-minute “chill break” and read for that amount of time, their future teachers would be ecstatic! Every child needs quiet time each day that does not involve any media or mechanical gadgets, including during the summer.

Most important of all, enjoy your children! There will never be another summer like the one ahead of you. Your children will not be this age ever again. Create some sort of structure and have some time that is not structured. Don’t send your children to other people to play all the time—what each child wants more than anything else is time with you. It is easy to forget that when you are trying to keep the energy-packed chicks busy.

Thanks to all the teachers who gave so much of themselves this school year to help our children be all that they can be!

Sandy Spurgeon McDaniel has written four adult books, and a new children’s book: Believe You Are Beautiful. She has taught school, raised two children, worked as a consultant to schools and has worked with children and families for 52 years. Sandy now lives in Meridian, Idaho. ParentingSOS.com, Amazon and Kindle

sandy spurgeon mcDaniel


PERFORMING ARTS WORKSHOPS

www.PerformingArtsWorkshops.com

Camps in: Manhattan Beach, Redondo, El Segundo

Brentwood, West LA, Studio City, Chatsworth, Pasadena

Camps for ages 5-15

LITTLE MERMAID

LITTLE MERMAID

WITCHES OF OZ

WITCHES OF OZ

SNOW QUEEN

SNOW QUEEN

THE PROFESSOR

and the FLOWER GIRL

THE PROFESSOR

and the FLOWER GIRL

LION KING

LION KING

Voted the BEST camp in LA!

(310) 827-8827

THEATER GUITAR MAGIC FILMMAKING

. . .STAGE F/X MAKEUP ROCK THE MIC MORE

. .

Ask About PAW

Discounts and Sign-up Specials :)

42nd Annual Peninsula

Basketball CampJuly 21 – 25

July 28 – August 1 August 4 – 8

37th Annual Peninsula

Baseball CampJuly 28 – August 1

37th Annual Peninsula

Soccer CampJuly 21 – 25August 4 – 8

Location: Palos Verdes High School • 600 Cloydon Rd., Palos Verdes EstatesTime: 9:00am – 4:00pm or 9:00am – 12:00pm. Monday – FridayFees: $240 Full Day • $125 Half Day

FundamentalsGames (everyone plays)Guest SpeakersOutstanding Coaching Staffs

Camp T-ShirtAwards & ContestsCertifi cate of ParticipationPlayer Profi le

SwimmingTransportation Available ($40 weekly)and much more

Camp features include:

Call for More Info! Tom Maier (310) 377-0690Sign Up Online: www.PeninsulaSportsCamps.com

18th Annual Half Day

Peninsula Soccer CampJune 9 – 13

July 28 – August 1

10th Annual Half Day

Peninsula Baseball CampAugust 4 – 8

Ages: Boys and Girls 5 – 12Location: Hess Park, Rancho Palos VerdesTime: 9:00am – 12:00pm. Monday – FridayFees: $125

Ages: Boy & Girls 5 – 14

Summer 2014

Your child will:

Imagination Creativity Innovation

Mobile Art Enrichment Programs Elementary Schools, Preschools, Private Groups,

Non-Profit Organizations, Parks & Recreation, and More...

www.art2growon.com • (310) 625-6028Serving the South Bay, Los Angeles and Orange Counties

Elementary Schools • Preschools • Art Birthday Parties

Expanding After School Programs with TUSD!

• Sharpen Critical Thinking• Develop Problem Solving Skills

• Enhance Fine Motor Skills• Increase Self-Esteem

Guitar, Piano, Voice, Bass, DrumsAlso: Ukulele, Banjo, Mandolin

Nominated Best LA Band ‘96Best Guitar ‘97 LA Music Awards

www.peacelandmusic.com [email protected]

23706 Crenshaw #105A&B, Torrance, CA across from Hof’s HutVisit us on MySpace.com/PeacelandMusic

YouTube.com/PeacelandMusic

All Ages, Levels & StylesDays, Evening & Weekends

James Musser James Musser James Musser James Musser James Musser


13SCH171_holidayEGiftAd_schoolNewsRollCall10.5x12.5.pdf 1 12/17/13 9:56 PM

covering the torrance unified school · pdf filecovering the torrance unified school district...

Documents