SC Students Get Creative Monitoring Energy

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Summer 2013, Volume XIX, Issue 3 www.santacruz.k12.az.us “We believe that everyone will experience successful learning every day.”

Missing Peña blanca

SpringSp 2014, Volumelume XX,XX, IssueIssue 2 wwww .santacruz.k12.az.us.santacruz.k12.az.us “We believe that everyone will experience successful learning every day.”

Photo/ Len Johnson Sofia Villanes, left, and Yaritza Jiminez, right, spin watt wheels Renovated high that quickly turn colors if too much light is in the room. Both are members of the San Cayetano National Elementary Honor Society. school library excites users By Fred Lewis updating and increasing RRHS Librarian the number of computer Rio Rico High School stations, and changing the Library has had a make- library lay out to increase over. With a new vision usefulness, efficiency and based on changes in aesthetics. A new open technology and modern floor plan increases meet- practice, the library was ing space and allows for recently restructured and more computer stations updated to better meet which results in much the needs of 21st century improved aesthetics. learners. SC students get creative SEE LIBRARY / Page 15 The new vision includes monitoring energy use

By Len Johnson using detective-like tools energy than a hair dryer, Honor Society club to find their culprit—too but I was literally blown leader Illiana Magallanes. We’ve heard of Weight many watts. away at how much more It’s part of a program Watchers. But now, the The idea is to figure the hair dryer takes being introduced to watt watchers have taken out what can be scrapped to run,” said Amber SCVUSD schools by the to San Cayetano El- Pierce Energy Institute, a ementary. in the home and school Boswell, a fifth grader at to save money. San Cayetano. company founded to help San Cayetano National schools save money by Elementary Honor Soci- “I would have thought The group was shown saving energy. Photo/ Carol Cullen ety students are looking that plugging in a cell creative ways to track Reviewing some book choices are students Richard Albertson and SEE ENERGY / Page 14 to cut energy costs by phone would take more energy usage by National Leilani Alarcon.

INSIDE Positive Motivational Preschoolers learn through play 6 ideas ‘Best ever’ food drive 8 benefits working Chefs teach extra skills 12 Wildlife Refuge art winners 13 from fitness well State standards in flux 13 Page 4 Page 7 Page 2 Santa Cruz Valley District No. 35 Spring 2014 Newsletter range ofusefulactivitiesinclasses Health, fitnesstopicsleadtowide Superintendent’s Letter Publisher &Editor Manuel C. Coppola WICK COMMUNICATIONS SANTA CRUZVALLEY UNIFIEDSCHOOL DISTRICTNo.35 Board members can be contacted through the district office: Board memberscanbecontactedthroughthedistrictoffice: 1374 W.FrontageRoadRioRico,Arizona85648 Santa CruzValleyUnifiedSchoolDistrictNo.35 Transportation department [email protected] Santa CruzValley UnifiedSchoolDistrict For information or questions call: (520) 375-8885(direct line) SCVUSD No. 35 By RodneyK.Rich (520) 281-8282 Superintendent or by writing to: or bywritingto: To advertise your in school newsletter please contact: 268 W. View Point Drive, Nogales, Arizona 85621, 520.375.5760 Fax 520.761.3115 www.nogalesinternational.com at the Nogales International: Maria or Carmen 520.375.5760 fering for the first time intramural fering forthefirsttimeintramural day’s activities. and howithelpsthemfocusonthe ment ofsilence”hasonstudents at thebeneficialeffectsthata“mo- exercise intodailyroutines. nities tofitsmallburstsofphysical giving studentsandadultsopportu- at MountainView Elementaryis district thatyou’llenjoyreading. of theinterestingstoriesfromour energy conservation.Hereareafew of health,fitnessandnutrition; letter, wecontinuewithourthemes • PeñaBlancaElementaryisof- • MountainView isalsolooking • Thehealthandfitnessprogram In thisissueofourdistrictnews- On the web: Superintendent ROD CH RI Board president Board Joel KraJoel mer Thank you to the Nogales International and to advertisers for their support. Publisher and editor Manuel Coppola “We believe that everyone experience will successful and rewardstudentswhodemon- stantly lookingatwaystoencourage for studentsofallages. pates inthecountywide“FunRun” one ofmanyschoolsthatpartici- control. to focusontasksanddevelopself- mental skillsleadingtotheirability aids inthedevelopmentofachild’s examines how“old-fashionedplay” habits. students todevelophealthyeating ways inwhichtheyareinspiring sports asanafter-school program. Governing Board • Calabasas Middle School is con- • SanCayetanoElementaryis • TheFamilyResourceCenter • PeñaBlancaalsodiscussesthe Susan Fa Board clerk This newsletter ispublished at nocost to tax payers. ubion StatementMission Carol Cullen Editor learning every day.” Maria Neum Member Design and production Priscilla BolanosPriscilla an community. needs ofourstudents,parentsand us toensurewearemeetingthe involvement andparticipationallow to makeourdistrictstronger. Their ing suggestionsandadviceonways hard workanddedicationtoprovid- Student AdvisoryCouncilsfortheir of theSuperintendent’s Parentand taking CPRclasses. ers arelearninghowtosavelivesby between studentsandteachers. ter buildingrapportandsupport staff sportscompetitioneachquar way wastoimplementastudent- strate positivebehaviors.Onesuch V BRIAN Finally, Iwanttothankmembers • Coatimundistudentsandteach- Member AN D Production and editing support ER V OET Kathleen Vandervoet Vi ct Member or Fon tes - Santa Cruz Valley District No. 35 Spring 2014 Newsletter Page 3 Photo/Mark Dittmar Photo/Shannon Enciso Now the question Moment of to Improve Silence: Simple Way A Schools/Society,” chology Psy- Today (Feb. 27, 2012). community events. is, what will you do to change lives? Sophie Renteria, a third grade student, starts her day thinking Sophie Renteria, a third grade student, starts her of Silent Reflection. Moment about her family during the school’s of the “period of medi- of “period the of tation,” visit Avraham Frank’s website momentofsilence.info/ http:// “A or see Izzy Kalman’s they feed, every child they make smile and every life they save through their fundraisers and Perhaps the biggest will Mountain View For more information Showing off the holiday presents during the school gift box drive are these students: Back row, from Showing off the holiday presents during the school gift box drive are these students: Back row, Middle Ann Schadler. left, Nayomi Garcia, Luis Fierro, America Chacon, Jordan Sene, teacher Toni from left, Marco Moreno, Jessy Alvarez, Alejandra Jaime, Sasha Wisdom, Delanie Rendon and row, Andres Cruz and Melanie Kridler. Paola Badillo. Front row, Carrillo does the MomentCarrillo does said Sophieof Silence,” a third-gradeRenteria, aboutstudent. “I think I’mmy family and things Then I feel grateful for. happy.” reaping thehindrance to benefits is ac- Moment’s “Theirtivity overload. hecticschool days are so first that even though it’s it’s thing in the morning, thinkhard for teachers to about anything other than their immediate re- sponsibilities,” said Mrs. Santillo. continue to look for ways andhealth the improve to wellness of its student body and school community. health benefitson the Honor Society and Toni Honor Society and Toni leader of Ann Schadler, the team, change lives with every hungry mouth Most benefits come asbenefits Most stu- When parents and “I like when [Principal] NJHS students also no better way There’s Members of the no surprise. According tono surprise. a psycholo- Izzy Kalman, is agist, the Moment thatpowerful experience promotes self-control It setsamong students. andthe mood for the day relax- serves as a form of un- ing meditation. An Kalmanexpected benefit found is that it connects elementary age children with their parents. dents take the Moment they have the seriously, opportunity to discuss toplans child the what think about the next day. Kalman be- In this way, that schools couldlieves raise parents’ self-esteem by reinforcing their role moral and as the child’s spiritual guide. member responded. worked with members of the Knights of Columbus to keep our streets clean and Rio Rico beautiful. The Knights of Colum- bus is a civic organization whose principles include fraternity unity, charity, and patriotism. They believe “there is no better way to experience love and compassion than by helping those in need, a call [they] answer every day.” to support those in need than by participating or taking part in the variety of fundraisers and community events NJHS puts on. CTMS National Junior “I find the moment of“I find the moment Even a casual investi- A week-long Penny A Holiday Gift Box provided the opportu- provided the Pledgenity to recite an excerptof Allegiance, to thefrom the preamble - Declaration of Indepen anddence (Grades 4-6), ofparticipate in a “period than ameditation” of less minute. verysilent meditation helpful,” said Mountain school counselor View “It Santillo. Veronica to praygives me a chance for our students and staff, and ready myself. The day would definitely be more stressful without it.” gation into the research supporting the Moment of Silence and its positive effect on student health and school climate but- tresses Mrs. Santillo’s comments. responsible for the col- lection of donations, counting of money and daily announcements to inspire the student body. Drive was held for the Crossroads Mission in Nogales. Over $720 was raised by 16 classes, en- abling CTMS to provide 347 dinners to those in need. One class alone raised over $284 for the cause! Drive was hosted for the Girls and Boys Club in Nogales this past Christ- mas. A total of 18 boxes of gifts were donated to children between the ages of 8 months and 6 years of age. “There are going to be a lot of one happy kids this year,”

By Mark Dittmar

By Amanda Dunn

“And now a moment In accordance with the What can you do to NJHS students like

of silent reflection.” Theof silent reflection.” directive is principal’s heard over Mountain public address View’s system each morning in their classrooms,while, sleepy students and busy teachers momentarily shift gears. re- Arizona Legislature’s quired opening exercises, students and teachers are Moment of Silence can reduce day’s stress day’s reduce can of Silence Moment

change lives? At Coati- mundi Middle School (CTMS), the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) is changing lives with the members’ dedication to leadership, and their responsibility, willingness to take part in the community. Marco Moreno, president, Samantha Schadler, vice president, and Luis show Alcaraz, treasurer, what it means to be a leader and member through their participation in fundraisers to benefit our community. the along with They, entire NJHS clan, were Junior honor society members change lives society members Junior honor Photo/Carol Cullen student health, wellness and fitness. PAL workshop recom- PAL mendations of improving continues on track to fully implement the In Tucson In Nogales PRIVATE DUTY PRIVATE Mountain View Mountain View NURSING SERVICES DEPENDABLE 520.721.3822 520.761.3211 concluded. First-graders keep balls in the air during the Healthier U.S. School Challenge celebration which honored Mt. View as a recipient of its First-graders keep balls in the air during the Healthier Activity Award. Recognizing Excellence in Nutrition and Physical In Home Services HOME HEALTH. HOME HEALTH. for Home or Hospital Settings for Self-Pay, Private Insurance Staf ng Staf Insurance Private Self-Pay, Medicare-certi ed Nursing Medicare-certi upport Nursing Professionals S Coach Kridler realizedCoach Kridler to be sure Wanting “Now we just need a ELIABLE school’s students and staff students and school’s would improve. is View that Mountain “We ahead of schedule. - already have opportuni beties for students to andactive before, during, getafter school, and they she said PE each day,” pile ofleafing through a surveys. pro- Mountain View’s gram is having a positive impact on her students’ health and wellness, Coach Kridler polled her colleagues. Results showed that teachers believe their students are doing better academi- cally as a result of the in- creased physical activity. few more opportunities for our staff and community to get involved,” she rofessional rofessional R PP Currently hiring Physical Therapists and Therapists hiring Physical Currently

By Mark Dittmar

HOME MEDICAL EQUIPMENT HOME MEDICAL Supplies, Rentals, Sales, Customizations, & Repairs Services www.dependablehealth.com us online at Visit health.com e-mail DHSinfo@dependable Agencies Licensed State Arizona Available Medicare Coverage Insurance During a recent Physi- During a Recommendations

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cal Activity Leadership - workshop, Moun (PAL) Coach Rhonda tain View Kridler began thinking - about the recommenda tion that schools should forprovide opportunities students to be physically active for at least one hour each school day. included providing moderate-to-rigorous physical activities for students before, during, and after school student activities and PE classes; and providing opportunities for adults to become more physically active. assured work- Trainers shop participants that if implemented, the overall health and fitness of their Fitness has positive benefits for Mt. View youth View for Mt. benefits positive has Fitness

Page 4 Page Spring 2014 Newsletter 2014 Spring 35 No. District Valley Cruz Santa Santa Cruz Valley District No. 35 Spring 2014 Newsletter Page 5 Photo/Carol Cullen Photo/Reneé Curren Romo and Capin envision the intramural sports program at Peña Blanca expanding to include other elementary schools in the district and becoming a regular part of students’ extra- curricular opportunities every year. - After such an over dents have two absences or are picked-up late twice they are dropped from the program. whelming turnout in the fall, student participation in the second semester will be decided by a lot- tery. The first semester There are no tryouts Frances Romo’s husband, a parent volunteer, coaches student soccer players on the field. husband, a parent volunteer, Frances Romo’s have playing sports. began with soccer and kickball. Plans for the second semester include football and basketball. or qualification factors other than a disciplined stu- If policy. strike” “two Happily holding the rebate check are the following school principals, from left, Berenice Rodriguez, San Cayetano; Happily holding the rebate check are the following Calabasas Middle Middle School; David Verdugo, Rio Rico High School; Cesar Miranda, Coatimundi Shelly Vroegh, Carrillo, Mountain View. School; Ivonne Ferreira, Peña Blanca; and Manuel Romo’s inspiration Romo’s “I want every student Romo says she enjoys how to make healthy food choices and have fun, too. comes from her own positive childhood experiences. She remembers every day in having P.E. school and enjoying the physical activity. to have the opportunity to learn how to play sports, work to- and to have fun,” gether, Romo said. “I wanted to organize a program that would give them an opportunity to exercise while also learning about teamwork.” students stopping her on campus, asking about intramurals and telling her how much fun they - All upgrades and improvements The story, “Emotional refueling at the Family Resource Center,” published in the Fall edition of this newsletter, incorrectly Fall edition of this newsletter, published in the Center,” “Emotional refueling at the Family Resource The story, energy savings performanceenergy savings Midstate Energy, contract with to the contractLLC. According to purchase,Midstate Energy is the district’s install and monitor (heating, upgraded HVAC condition- ventilation and air anding) and lighting equipment, implement other energy-savings the district.measures throughout to taxpayersare done at no cost poten- or SCVUSD, and could incometially result in additional to the district. If the energy performance measures put in place by Midstate do not result in the guaranteed savings, Midstate pays the difference. Any energy savings above the amount of the loan is kept by SCVUSD. stated that Debbie Condes wrote the article. The article was written by Debbie Curley, Program Director for Santa Cruz County article. The article was written by Debbie Curley, stated that Debbie Condes wrote the Extension. Family Resource Centers, UA Cooperative

- The program is made Capin wants to impress

list. possible by two third- grade teachers, Frances Romo and Cynthia Capin, who gave a year- long commitment to provide coaching and supervision. Supported fully by the Peña Blanca principal and other staff and family members, they are responding to students’ needs to participate in team sports at no cost to their families. on students how impor tant a healthy lifestyle is to academic excellence. She said, “Children today spend too much time watch- using technology, ing television, and eating junk food.” The program offers a fun way to learn -

By Reneé Curren Correction

For the first time this The rebate was for the recentThe rebate was for 2012, the SC- In February, In January, the school district In January, year, intramural sports year, are offered to Peña Blan- ca students as an after- school program. The program, sponsored by a grant, “Salud Por Vida” has been a burgeoning success with more than 60 students actively par ticipating every Tuesday ticipating every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon. More are on a waiting

intramural sports dash to Youth $156,000 energy rebate presented rebate energy $156,000 formance contract with Midstateformance contract LLC. Energy, light- purchase of energy-saving entire districting fixtures for the and heating-cooling equipment for the high school, Mountain Elementary and San Cay- View etano Elementary. VUSD Governing Board approved a $4.2 million, 18-year received a $156,621 rebate checkreceived a Energy Services.from Unisource of severalThis rebate is one cost-savingspotential sources of Uni- Valley revenue Santa Cruz No. 35 couldfied School District 18 yearsrealize over the next per through the energy-savings Old-fashioned play builds school skills Prior to that, play was your children. But, take more centered around an some time to recognize activity than an object. the importance of free Imagine when you play in helping your child were growing up – roam- self-regulate. ing around in groups Think you live in a with your friends, more fast-paced world? Don’t or less unsupervised – be- forget – your children are ing pirates, playing hide living in it too. and seek, and organizing A study was recently scavenger hunts. You completed as a follow By Debbie Curley made up your own rules, up to a study conducted you created the structure in the 1940s to mea- Program Director and you regulated your sure children’s ability to Family Resource Center actions. self-regulate – otherwise The toys children have known as wait. It took 3, today have “predeter- 5 and 7-year-old children Looking for an excuse mined scripts,” which and tested how long they not to buy the latest means that the designer were able to stand still. Xbox game? The reason of the toys dictates what In the 1940s, the 3-year- may lie in the need to it will do and who it will olds could not stand still. build your child’s execu- be. The 5-year-olds could tive function – mental “Instead of playing stand still for about three skills that are thought pirate with a tree branch, minutes. And, the 7-year- to be more important children now play Star olds could stand as long than IQ in determining a Wars with a toy light as they were asked. In child’s success in school. saber,” said Spiegel. the more recent study, Photos/Cindy Felix A recent story by Alix Above: Rebecca Hernandez, 3, But it’s not just com- the 5-year-olds could engages in pretend play during Spiegel aired on NPR mercialization of toys only wait as long as the Keys for Threes Class at the Rio examined the evolution that has taken away 3-year-olds from the Rico Family Resource Center. of play for children and imaginative play. It’s 1940s. The 7-year-olds how the “advances” may also our desire to place could barely make it as Diego Romero, 2, at left, and have a negative impact our children in a safe long as the 5-year-olds. his mother Lourdes Gutierrez on their development. participate in the Rice and environment – such as According to early Beans sensory activity in a Play In 1955, when the the friend-approved childhood expert Ellen and Learn class. Mattel toy company soccer league – or the Galinsky, “Children need started doing year-round gymnastics program that focus and self-control advertising of their promises to build their in order to achieve their toys on the television, achievement. goals, especially in a bering the rules, thinking parents and children at Jennifer Argyros, site co- “children’s play became These programs pro- world that is filled with flexibility and exercising the Center encourages ordinator of the Rio Rico focused, as never before, mote much-needed ex- distractions and informa- self-control.” parents to create learning Family Resource Center. on things – the toys ercise and offer valuable tion overload. It involves All of the classes at opportunities in everyday Building focus and themselves,” said Spiegel. social experiences for paying attention, remem- the Rio Rico Family life. For example, when self-control in today’s Resource Center include you are in the kitchen, environment is difficult. activities that promote let your child help make It is not easy to com- executive function. dinner. This is an oppor- pete against the Xbox. Parents are constantly tunity to build vocabu- But, parents and educa- reminded to let their lary, show them what tors who recognize the children complete portions look like, learn importance of executive activities by themselves, math and problem-solv- function will find ample explore things on their ing skills and take pride opportunities to promote own and use their cre- in a finished product. old-fashioned play. ativity. Designated areas “Children who know If you would like to in the playroom promote what happens next in a learn more about how imaginative play includ- sequence not only use to promote your child’s ing the make-believe their executive function executive function, please Valley District No. 35 Spring 2014 Newsletter Santa Cruz Valley costume box, the kitchen skills but also feel more call the Center at 761- area and the block build- confident which in turn 1135 or come visit us at ing center. inspires them to continue 1103 Circulo Mercado,

Page 6 Homework for to love learning,” says behind the post office. Santa Cruz Valley District No. 35 Spring 2014 Newsletter Page 7 - Photo/Tonya Latvala Photo/Tonya A teacher at CMS Not all ideas are new. “Uniting students nity would like to donate prizes or other resources - for the program, Jack toson encourages them contact the school. issaid, “This program not showing that it’s - always about the nega tive behavior that gets the attention, it can be all about the positive too.” Another great idea that continues at CMS is the game of “staff vs. students” sponsored each quarter by CMS teacher Karla Ramirez. Games change each quarter and include basketball, vol- leyball, or football. and teachers in a little a bad competition isn’t thing,” said Ramirez. “The students actually see us as people and not just ‘teaching machines.’ Sports bring people together and our staff always looks for oppor tunities to build rapport with our student body.” “The program is doing Criteria for being rec- Jackson said that he and demonstrate good character receive “Feed “200the Cougar” cards, - Club” slips, and “Pre pared and On-Time” These from their teacher. foritems can be entered drawings or converted to prizes such as pizza certificates, ice cream orsocials, special parties, other rewards. very well. It has raised intrinsic motivation on campus,” said Christo- pher Jackson, CMS dean and program supporter. “I hope it continues to grow and become bigger Recogniz- and better. ing desired behaviors through praise and rewards helps our entire campus to become more positive.” ognized include excellent performance in academ- ics, social skills, and extra-curricular activities. hopes to establish even more ways to recognize student excellence. If anyone from the commu- -

By Tonya Latvala By Tonya

The beginning of the Positive Be- This year’s praise and daily Verbal Students who are Staff and students at Calabasas Middle School relax after a great game of basketball against each other. other. Staff and students at Calabasas Middle School relax after a great game of basketball against each win, but all wear smiles! Teachers school year may be a stressful time for students and staff alike. This year Calabasas Middle School implemented new ideas geared toward encourag- ing success and motivation. havior Interventions and Support (PBIS) program is under way to motivate students through positive reinforcement for positive behavior. recognition are impor tant components of the reward system, as are prizes. prepared, working,

off at Calabasas MS at Calabasas off Praise, rewards pay rewards Praise, Page 8 Santa Cruz Valley District No. 35 Spring 2014 Newsletter have agreatThanksgiv - “I wantedtohelp others to domore,”said Lopez. like Ineededorwanted school, butthisyearIfelt ever sinceelementary involved infooddrives about beingabletohelp. was especiallyexcited students, DamianLopez, bring foodin.” to openmydoorearly ing whenIgottowork ing formeinthemorn- I evenhadstudentswait- donated atleastonecan. out andeverystudent excited abouthelping said. “Theywereallvery the students,”George they collected447cans. Reading class.Intotal, seventh-grade Silent most wasJaniGeorge’s families.” they providedtolocal great prideinthegift community andtheytake donated tohelpoutour “Many ofthestudents run thefooddrive. gan Padilla,whohelped successful yet,”saidMe- November wasourmost drive atCMSthispast ing baskets. families withThanksgiv- who thenprovideslocal to theRioRicoRotary, bring infoodtodonate students andstaffto The goalistoinspire CMS holdsafooddrive. School (CMS). deal forCalabasasMiddle grew intoamuchbigger yearly fooddriveand isbesthelp families ever Canned food drive to “I had always been “I hadalwaysbeen One ofGeorge’s “I amveryproudof The classcollectingthe “The cannedfood Every Thanksgiving, It allstartedwitha By Tonya Latvala donation box inside the donation boxinsidethe Rio Rico,heplaceda ret’s grocerystorein permission fromGar supplement this,with ing cannedgoods.To neighborhood collect- door toinhis needs. for technologyorother which hegavetoCMS one-thousand box-tops for thedrive.Hereceived which hespentonfood He raised$125dollars, Valley, andevenTucson. bers inNogales,Green local communitymem- and cannedgoodsfrom collected money, boxtops parents andafriend,he how, withhelpfromhis could.” community asmuchI raised togivebackthe others. “Iwasalways his determinationtohelp Damian LopezSr., for his parents,Mariaand Rico, Damiancredited ing.” earned byaskinglocal businessestohelpCMS’s fooddrive. Damian Lopezsits withthefoodhecollectedand box topshe He and a friend went He andafriendwent Damian explained Born andraisedinRio - holiday season. families haveabrighter was enoughtohelpsix 1,543 fooditemswhich those families. like gettingturkeysfor and perhapsdoingmore ing withthefooddrive hopes tocontinuehelp- ing donations.” the storesfortheiramaz- helped medothisandto you toeveryonewho also wanttosaythank happen aroundhere.I because thisdoesn’t just doing this,theyshould If otherschoolsaren’t cially duringtheholidays. making endsmeet,espe- who justhaveahardtime have alot.Iknowothers Mexico toworkanddon’t people travelherefrom help others.Iknowsome did this,hesaid,“Iliketo 221 cans. total, Damiancollected donate cannedfood.In store socustomerscould In all, CMS collected In all,CMScollected Next year, Damian When askedwhyhe Photo/Megan Padilla Santa Cruz Valley District No. 35 Spring 2014 Newsletter Page 9 Photo/Lindsay Mitchell - “[Eating] affects every make sure we’re Let’s Life-saving skills, fun of happy, well-prepared of happy, want to be learners. We issure that our family for ahappy and prepared great day at school. tothing from memory - creativity in the class goroom. Children who hungry are more inclined to become distracted from learning at school, or give up more easily when faced with challenges,” wrote Alissa Fleck, Demand Media. giving our children, our every opportunity family, to succeed in school and in their future by making sure they take advantage of the no-charge school meals offered by the district. ways to exercise and eating well keep our family healthy and pre- happy, pared for the future. I, as well as students, How about keep- Eating healthy contrib- at CTMS with the localat CTMS with the fire department. - parents and staff partici ledpated in a CPR class Tubac by Ben Martinez, a were able We fire fighter. caringto work with other theindividuals to learn livestechniques to save and become one of “… more than 12 million people [trained] in CPR Thanks to the annually.” hard work of each of our family members, we can all feel safer. ing our family healthy? CTMS encourages students to be more active by organizing events to School like the Walk Students experience Day. the benefits of exercising outdoors while enjoying the company of their friends and teachers. utes to the development

By Amanda Dunn

At Coatimundi Middle The programs and According to the Lindsay Mitchell, our CTMS students benefit from exercise and being with friends during Walk to School Day. CTMS students benefit from exercise and being with friends during

students healthy students Many choices keep choices Many School (CTMS), we believe that our students, teachers, parents, coaches areand our community We a part of our family. want to do everything we can to ensure that our family stays happy, healthy and ready for the future. activities we provide through CTMS allow you to play an active role in making our family a success. American Heart Associa- tion, “Anyone can learn CPR—and everyone should! The life you save with CPR is most likely going to be someone you love.” school guidance counsel- organized a CPR class or, Page 10 Santa Cruz Valley District No. 35 Spring 2014 Newsletter as headofthe district’s about running. Serving Schadler said. ing inupcomingyears,” them continuegrow- we haveplanstohelp fun runshavegrown,and county. ferent schoolsacrossthe with 400kidsfromsixdif- there weretwofunruns mile course.Thisyear, enty runnersrantheone- View Elementary. Sev- Schadler, atMountain with thenprincipal,Steve abilities. brings inathletesofall a county-widerunthat event atoneschoolto grown fromanisolated elementary funrunhas Isaac Treviño, fifthgrader, PeñaBlancaElementary runsintheevent. Schadler knows a bit Schadler knows abit “I amthrilledthatthese It startednineyearsago The schooldistrict By LenJohnson ner.” where everyone isawin- the funrun“a bigparty Mountain View, andcalls the PEprogramat be greatfun.” showing thatexercisecan can accomplishwhilealso themselves andwhatthey to developalittlebeliefin “It’s agreatwayforkids programs,” Schadlersaid. have started(similar) districts inTucson that eventually finishes. along theway. Everyone get toknoweachother times. Othersstopand athletes postingsolid stadium. around thehighschool’s take toaone-milecourse on, studentsingrades3-5 runners cheeringthem Rio RicoHighSchool at Stanford. Schadler rancollegetrack in ArizonaDivisionIII. the boystosecondplace cross countrytitleand high schoolgirlstoastate of theyear. Heledthe southern Arizonacoach tion, hewasnamedall- curriculum andinstruc- Rohnda Kridler heads Rohnda Kridlerheads “I knowofatleasttwo Some aretrained With statechampion continues continues to grow District District fun run fun run Nogales won that event. event. that won Nogales Bracker Elementary in a fatherandson from model mile.Thisyear, for adultscalledtherole finish line. feels good,”hesaidatthe other finishers. the race,hecongratulated win, andinthespiritof grade run.Itwashisfirst took firstplaceinthefifth This year, Rodriguez faster witheachevent. past fewyearsandgot half dozenrunners. consistently beatenbya Mountain View. Hewas sprints infirstgradeat an example.Heranshort Kridler said. always beimprovement,” with practicetherewill upon ourstudentsisthat idea thatwetrytoinstill their owntime.“Thebig students focusonbeating preparation canbegin. finish line.Afterthat,real all aboutmakingittothe She saysthefirstrunis get readyforfunruns. ners atMountainView There is even a run There isevenarun “I amtired,butitsure He triedfunrunsthe Dagoberto Rodriguezis In thesecondrun, She helpsstudentrun- Photo/Haydee Fernandez Santa Cruz Valley District No. 35 Spring 2014 Newsletter Page 11 Photo/Len Johnson ing Ms. Beck join us has been nothing less than phenomenal. been able to successfully She’s instill in our students a true desire for advanced technology skills.” - “It has been an amazing year paring our students for their future,” Condes said. for our Cheetahs in the area of Principal Ber technology,” enice Rodriguez said. “Hav- Angel Valenzuela, grade 2, is practicing his keyboard skills and will have a head grade 2, is practicing his keyboard skills Angel Valenzuela, start on future tech projects. “It’s not that hard,” Beck not that “It’s studentsBeck will also guide Debbie Condes, dean of stu- “Ms. Beck has so much rooms and the tech club willrooms and to build their ownalso learn work together towebsite and projects. build online said. “There are programs anyone toout there that allow their ownlearn how to build all thesite without knowing can dohtml codes. What they now is exciting.” softwareto pick and choose themapplications that push learning.toward continuous Most of the “apps” are fun and educational, and offer not only school subjects, but entire books and courses. dents at San Cayetano, added that the tech club will take virtual tours around the world and create travel brochures for the places they learn about. expertise and passion for pre- Arizona is shifting fromArizona is testsThe common core become computer ready, To to get them to type try “We Students in regular class- - point presenta ments, power test-taking sites. tions, and state tests, knownstandardized standard- as AIMS, to national a commonized tests, based on AIMS, core curriculum. With to fill instudents use pencils circles on paper. In thirdwill be computerized. leave theirgrade, students will take theirpencils behind and clicking,high-stakes tests by on adragging and dropping computer screen. Computer- savvy kids clearly have an edge in common core testing. Beck believes students need basic typing skills. at least 25 words a minute by second grade,” she said. a fifth grader who can “There’s type 80 words a minute.”

By Len Johnson

Angel Valenzuela is a San Angel Valenzuela I can“I like to see how fast a growing one of He’s Cheetahs are “The Techie club students will read Tech

Cayetano second-grader whoCayetano playground.loves sports on the the play- he often leaves Yet to honeground before school his computer skills. learningtype words, and I like Valenzuela on the computer,” said. who getnumber of students stay lateto school early and The to pursue technology. interest has been so great that San Cayetano has formed the Cheetah Club. Techie excited about the project and not just experiencing technol- but early career develop- ogy, ment skills,” said Sheila Beck, computer head of the school’s lab. and build spreadsheets, docu- Tech club prepares students for Common Core Common for students prepares club Tech Page 12 Santa Cruz Valley District No. 35 Spring 2014 Newsletter Peña Blanca’s PaulaEnriquez,afourth-grader, winsdistrictspellingbee delicious andhealthysnack. Students combinelayersofyogurt,fruit,andgranolatomakea included: match. Competitors the districtat county who wouldrepresent school todetermine elementary andmiddle (alternates) fromeach winners andrunner-ups tion amongspellingbee held thefinalcompeti- bee winner. VUSD districtspelling to clinchthetitleofSC- a confident,steadypace each letter, speakingin tary, verballytickedoff Peña BlancaElemen- fourth gradestudentat breath, PaulaEnriquez, planes. 12 hedron: asolidhaving truly appreciated donations are Tax-credit In January, thedistrict After takingadeep The wordwasdodeca- By CarolCullen Champion, 4th grade Elementary Peña Blanca 4th grade(notpresent) Champion, 5thgrade Elementary Mt. View 7th grade pion, 6thgrade Middle School Coatimundi Alternate, 8thgrade pion, 8thgrade School Calabasas Middle Omar Vasquez, Al- Paula Enriquez, Jade Brito,Alternate, Roland DiazDeLeon, Diego Soto,Alternate, Jared Fischer, Cham- Dominique Pierce, Jubin George,Cham- Photo/Lourdes Jeong a real chef. a realchef. Up” programdressedlike member ofthe“MixIt demo ispresentedbya a CookingDemo.The their entireclassroom smart anditcouldearn makes themhealthyand know thatbecauseit healthy breakfast. to startthedaywitha Chefs intheclassroomteachnewtopics It’s allpartofaprogram Students atPeñaBlanca It’s alwaysagoodidea deep in our schools when the deep inourschoolswhenthe 35. No. Valley UnifiedSchoolDistrict credit donationstoSantaCruz appreciation foryour2013tax- students, Iwanttoexpressour present) ternate, 4thgrade(not were Principals Cesar were Principals Cesar Librarian). Pronouncers Blanca Elementary Renee Curren(Peña View Librarian),and Cayetano andMountain ian), DanayraVera (San Middle SchoolLibrar Donna Bazzo(SCVUSD tion inFebruary. in thecountycompeti- ementary willparticipate from PeñaBlancaEl- pions andthealternate district winner, allcham- nate, 3rdgrade Champion, 5thgrade Elementary San Cayetano By ReneéCurren Each January, emotionsrun On behalfofSCVUSD SCVUSD judges were SCVUSD judgeswere In additiontothe Haley Gower, Alter Omar Valenzuela, - - tion logs. tion logs. class completionofnutri- breakfast program,or participation intheschool two ways--highestclass Cooking Demosinoneof choices. for makinghealthyfood incentive andknow-how to allgradelevels,creating year-long nutritionclasses of Arizona.Theyprovide sored bytheUniversity called “MixItUp”spon- Once aquarter, students Classrooms canwin Verdugo, JubinGeorge,DonnaBazzo,CesarMirandaandManuel Carrillo. Roland DiazDeLeonandPaulaEnriquez.Atrear, fromleft,areDanayraVera, ReneeCurren,Dave Front row, fromleft,areDominque Pierce,HaleyGower, JaredFischer, DiegoSoto,OmarValenzuela, get up and demonstrate get upanddemonstrate me thatthese students sas MiddleSchool). Dave Verdugo (Calaba- Middle School)and Miranda (Coatimundi “Every year it amazes “Every yearit amazes these funds go directly to our these fundsgodirectlytoour being throughyourdonations. our students’educationalwell- nity, expressyourcommitmentto dents ofourSCVUSDcommu- the extenttowhichyou,asresi- figures arereported,andwelearn You haveourpromisethat savory ways to combine savory waystocombine a newappreciationfor Cooking Demoswith snack. Studentsleavethe then eating,ahealthy experience atcreating, give studentsfirst-hand Demo. their logswinsaCooking students completing with 100percentofthe nutrition log.Theclass a four daysandfillout to wearpedometersfor are randomlyselected The Cooking Demos The CookingDemos at least two competitions at leasttwocompetitions out-spelled their peersin nizer. “Eachofthem has said Bazzo,districtorga- lent spellingabilities,” of confidenceandexcel- such anexemplarylevel you. a generouscommunity. Thank donation. of whichyouidentifiedinyour extra-curricular activities,many students. Theyareusedfor Rod Rich,Superintendent We arefortunatetohavesuch breakfast competitions. breakfast competitions. Cooking Demofromthe classrooms earnedtheir Ms. Aguilar’s fourthgrade Romero’s thirdgradeand of nutritionlogs.Ms. due totheircompletion won aCookingDemo Cerezo andMs.Martinez) fifth gradeclasses(Ms. healthy eatingpleasure. and colorfortheirown food flavors,texture, of them.” extremely proud ofeach to getthispoint. Iam how hardtheyworked district level.Thatshows before gettingtothe This firstsemester, both Photo/Carol Cullen Santa Cruz Valley District No. 35 Spring 2014 Newsletter Page 13 Photo/Carol Cullen But with AIMS inspiring to see their imagination come to life in detail and color.” have been converted to reflect the required AC- CRS standards. Profes- sional development to help teachers understand these standards and the elevated expectations they bring to our District have been ongoing for nearly two years. scheduled to expire in just three short months, it seems our best preparation for testing these standards will have to include a heavy dose of flexibility. They explained that SCVUSD No. 35 Coatimundi Middle School students, from left, BryanaCoatimundi Middle School Morales, Engman, display Sigrid and teacher, Kassie Adams, Pablo Ahumada and her entrywinning entries. Angelina Romero is not pictured is displayed by Ms. Engman. nual opportunity for children to express their love for nature and it is truly Parents’ Advisory Council meeting. During that time, both legisla- tors expressed concern test was that the PARCC too much, too soon for Arizona. there would be upcoming discussions in Phoenix but that at the present moment they had reservations about voting in favor of the PARCC assessment. parents should rest assured that our district curriculum calendars - - But, as reported in the SCVUSD In January, The refuge is associat- The refuge - “At Buenos Aires Na and Careers, a consor tium of 19 states including Arizona. Janu- Arizona Daily Star, ary 27, 2014, “a number of states have decided to withdraw from PARCC . . . or to use alternative tests,” including Florida, Georgia, Oklahoma and Alabama. Superintendent Rod Rich invited State Senator Andrea Dalessandro and Representative Rosanna Gabaldon to speak with parents at his monthly ed with the U.S. Fish anded with the Services which Wildlife environmentalhas a large ofeducation component an- their mission. The ofnual art contest is one several events sponsored toby the refuge intended toinspire young children develop a deeper under standing and appreciation for natural habitats. Refuge we tional Wildlife tovalue teaching youth understand and appreciate the amazing qualities of the natural world,” said Fernandez. “This art contest has been an an- - - A pleasant day’s duty A pleasant day’s is enjoyed by Santa Cruz County Sheriff Arnold Deputy Travis who helps present a cake to Principal Berenice Rodriguez. They are joined by Rafael Lopez, chief deputy for County Schools Superin- tendent Alfredo I. Velásquez. - All of this means that In addition to the requiring that teacher evaluations be based in part on such tests to determine a teacher’s effectiveness. Beginning state this current year, law requires that the AC- CRS be fully taught in all grades from kindergarten through twelfth grade. 2014 is supposed to be the final year of the AIMS test with the new test scheduled PARCC to take over in 2015. is the Partner PARCC ship for the Assessment of Readiness for College plastic insect and infor plastic insect the Buenosmation about Wildlife Aires National Sasabe, AZ.Refuge in presentation of awards, students at Coatimundi SanMiddle School and Cayetano Elementary - were given an educa ontional presentation anddesert snakes. Chuck interpre- Betty Mulcahy, thetive naturalists from Refuge, brought Wildlife live non-venomous snakes to demonstrate the value of snakes to the environment, and the importance of respecting their distance. - “I am just really proud of the work the teachers, administra- doneand support staff have tors - status,” Ve to achieve their ‘A’ of course it“And, said. lásquez be possible without the wouldn’t effort of the students and par ents. Congratulations to all.” While students would In addition, Arizona Taking home first and home Taking were presented Awards standards. likely celebrate if there was no “high-stakes” test administered as a graduation require- ment, they should not get too excited just yet. The country still feels strongly that “What gets tested is what gets taught,” as stated by Joan Herman, co-director of the National Center for Research on Evaluation, Standards and Student at UCLA. Testing has enacted legislation nandez, Wildlife Refuge nandez, Wildlife All Assistant Manager. class members were given wildlife take-home bags containing a crossword puzzle, refuge pencil, grader) and Kassiegrader) and grader).Adams (seventh second yearThis is the won in thisMorales has grade category. second place awards - in the K-2 grade cat egory were San Cayetano second grade students Regina Inda and Sergio Vasquez. - in the students’ class rooms by Juliette Fer Instruction

By Carol Cullen

By Stephen Schadler

Director of Curriculum and

In keeping with the Coatimundi MiddleCoatimundi The respective winners County Schools Superinten-

theme of healthy living, the Curriculum and As- sessment office is forced to remain flexible as we Col- implement Arizona’s lege and Career Readi- ness Standards (ACCRS) throughout this school because after That’s year. years of planning and preparation, Arizona, as well as some other states, are now hedging on how they want to test these State test standards require flexibility standards require State test

School students wonSchool students andfirst, second, third infourth place awards the 5th Annual Buenos Aires National Wildlife inRefuge Art Contest the grades 6-8 category. received a pair Winners of binoculars, donated rib- by Eagle Optics, a thebon and a poster of Refuge National Wildlife System. are Angelina Romero (sixth grader), Bryana Morales (eighth grader), Pablo Ahumada (sixth Students sweep awards in Wildlife Refuge contest Refuge Wildlife in awards sweep Students

dent Alfredo I. Velásquez de- dent Alfredo I. Velásquez livered cakes to San Cayetano Elementary and Coatimundi grati- show his to School Middle ef- and work hard their for tude fort in achieving an “A” status from the Arizona Department of Education. ‘A’ schools receive cakes receive schools ‘A’ Page 14 Santa Cruz Valley District No. 35 Spring 2014 Newsletter at:http://www.azsba.org/jobs/executive-search/ You willhavetheopportunitytoreviewpositionpamphlet information regardingtheposition. with thesearch.You mayvisittheASBAwebsitefor The ArizonaSchoolBoardsAssociation(ASBA)isassistingtheBoard Current SuperintendentRodneyRichisretiringeffectiveJune30. Board issearchingforanewsuperintendent. The SantaCruzValley UnifiedSchoolDistrictNo.35Governing leadership position Opening in sure wattsusedby ahairdryer. Illiana Magallanes, NationalHonorSocietyclubleader, showsNHSmemberAlexa Vasquez howtomea- sticker inafirstgrade classroom. Amber Boswell,SanCayetanofifth grader andNationalHonorSocietymember, putsupa“wattwatcher” Continued fromPage1 ENERGY ances such as hair dryers ances suchashairdryers used bycommonappli- wall thatmeasuredwatts small attachmenttothe costly. were toobrightand turned colors,thelights toy-like tops.Ifthetops light outputbyspinning gallanes said. for ourstudents,”Ma- a ‘handson’experience was veryinterestingand They also plugged in a They alsopluggedina The groupmeasured “The wholeproject dents, thinks the project dents, thinkstheproject Cayetano deanofstu- when notinuse. shut everythingdown green remindersurgeto light switches.Thesmall watcher” stickersbeneath they attached“watt students savingmoney, measured inwatts. noisy ormovingcanbe about anythingbright, surprised tofindthatjust electrical device. of thewallthananyother sucked moremoneyout By far, thehairdryer and pencilsharpeners. Debbie Condes, San Debbie Condes,San To keepteachersand Most studentswere www.energyplanning.org. energy-saving tips,goto the classroom.Formore says, canberedirectedto bed. before devices fromthesocket such asunplugging She offerssimpletips schools isnevermissed. energy savedinhomesor fall, saysmostofthe to districtteacherslast her energy-savingtips costs. the informationtocut schools lookingtouse and economics,also learning aboutscience would benefitstudents The money saved, she The moneysaved,she Sue Pierce,whotook Photos/ LenJohnson Santa Cruz Valley District No. 35 Spring 2014 Newsletter Page 15 - - Photo/Carol Cullen Photo/Carol It would be difficult world of In today’s Despite challenges and Come see us at your our cherished pursuit ofour cherished pursuit bestknowledge and our possible life. to overstate the impor tant roles libraries have played in the history of education and humanity. encouraged and are We pleased SCVUSD No. 35 continues to support its school libraries. constant change and competition for exist- ing funds, educational institutions struggle to keep up. Even in these tough economic times SCVUSD No. 35 has committed to supporting its school libraries. limited resources the SCVUSD No. 35 library staff members continue to maintain a progres- sive vision to meet the needs of our students sup- We and community. port reading and lifelong encourage learning. We your support and participation. local school library or visit us on the web at http://rrhs.santacruz.k12.az.us/index. cfm?pID=7946 . Rio Rico High School library hours are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday; and 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday. For more information, contact Fred Lewis, Rio Rico High School librar ian, at (520) 375-8778. -

The long range plan Research has shown Libraries and library Think what life become the storage andbecome the storage distribution point for nine mobile computer come to labs. Teachers outthe library to check mobile computer labs housing net-books and Chrome books to use in their classes. for the library is to continue improving its col- lection and services. As funds become available, digital resources will be updated and eventually e-books will be offered. everyone encourage We to visit our library. that schools with strong libraries outperform schools that do not have libraries. The district boasts six libraries, one for each school campus, along with a library staff. Librarians work together to provide the best library services possible. staff do more than just provide educational support services. Librar ies are often a treasured place where students come to work, read, relax, play and dream. Libraries are safe, nurturing places where people are welcome to just be. would be like without the freedom to read and think whatever you choose. Imagine what life would be like if you could not read. Libraries are living monuments to At work in the renovated library are Heidi Smith, library library Heidi Smith, are library renovated in the work At Librarian. Lewis, and Fred technician,

These changes haveThese changes Student attendance The library and library The district spent ap- fortunate to are We On campus, the RRHS In addition to books,

LIBRARY Page 1 Continued from been well received bybeen well and ourlibrary visitors, andstudents appreciate value their library. li- and use is high. The mainbrary has become a hang out for students who report that they enjoy the view. ben- computer lab have efited from the addition of new computers and computer stations there- by increasing their usage. reserve and use Teachers the lab with their classes on a more frequent basis. In addition to class time, students are also using library computers before school, during lunch and after school. proximately $45,000 on new computers, moni- tors, tables and chairs for The School the library. Improvement Grant paid for about 81 percent of the cost, with the district budget covering the remainder. have a beautiful library building. It is a large facility with high ceilings and expansive windows providing an impressive view of the surrounding area. People often visit the RRHS library simply to experience the beauty of the architecture and enjoy the view. library is centrally located, serving as the focal point and heart of school. It has a com- manding presence on the main plaza and is school’s easily recognized. magazines, movies, AV equipment, computers and meeting space, the library has recently Page 16 Santa Cruz Valley District No. 35 Spring 2014 Newsletter