Lowell Milken Family Foundation

HighTechHigh-LA A California Charter School

Dedication Ceremonies Wednesday, November 17, 2004 Program Greetings and Introductions

Roberta Weintraub As an educational entrepreneur, Roberta Weintraub is Founder/Executive Director, the spark that ignites HighTechHigh-LA. She has been HighTechHigh-LA Foundation instrumental in securing federal, state and local funds, architectural expertise and industry partnerships. She was a member of the Los Angeles Board of Education for 14 years (board president for three years). She founded the highly successful Police Academy Magnet program, now on six LAUSD school sites. Ms. Weintraub has had a distinguished media career in both radio and television, and has received two Emmys for educational programming. She has a B.A. degree from U.C.L.A. Welcome

Marsha Rybin Marsha Rybin earned a B.A. and M.S. in history from U.C.L.A. Founding Principal, and an M.S. in educational administration from National HighTechHigh-LA University. She has taught at Muir Junior High School, Porter Junior High School and Birmingham High School, where she was the journalism/technology coordinator and later assistant principal. Her professional affiliations include the California Council on Social Studies, California Charter School Association, Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, Associated Administrators of Los Angeles, and the National Association of Secondary School Principals. Remarks

Jack O’Connell Superintendent Jack O’Connell has worked to fortify California State Superintendent California’s academic standards, strengthen California’s of Public Instruction assessment system, and bolster support for the state’s classrooms. He is a long-time advocate for smaller class sizes, improved teacher recruitment and retention, comprehensive testing, and up-to-date school facilities. Superintendent O’Connell previously served in the California State Legislature representing the Central Coast. He has a B.A. in history from California State University, Fullerton, and a secondary teaching credential from California State University, Long Beach. Lowell Milken As a leading reformer of K-12 education for more Chairman, than two decades, Lowell Milken conceived the Lowell Milken Family Foundation Milken Family Foundation National Educator Awards in 1985, today the nation’s largest teacher recognition program in 47 states and the District of Columbia. In 1999, he introduced the Teacher Advancement Program (TAP) as a comprehensive, research-based system to attract, develop, motivate and retain the fi nest talent to teaching. Eighty schools nationwide are now implementing TAP. A businessman and philanthropist, Mr. Milken is a product of California’s public schools, including Birmingham High. He graduated summa cum laude from the University of California at Berkeley, and earned his law degree from U.C.L.A. with the distinction of Order of the Coif.

Kevin Quinonez Kevin Quinonez is a fi rst-generation American; his Student, HighTechHigh-LA proud parents are from Puerto Barrios, Guatemala. A graduate of Mulholland Middle School, Mr. Quinonez has expanded his interest in computers at HighTechHigh-LA from a hobby to preparation for a career in engineering and computers. He plans to attend a University of California campus upon graduation from HTH-LA.

Video Presentation

Remarks

Jon Lauritzen Jon Lauritzen graduated from Canoga Park High Board Member, Los Angeles School and earned a B.A. from California State Unifi ed School District University, Northridge, followed by a teacher credential and M.A. in education with a specializa- tion in computer education. He spent 17 years as a math and computer science teacher at Columbus Middle School before transferring to his alma mater, Canoga Park High, where he wrote and developed computer courses for both students and faculty. Mr. Lau- ritzen retired from Canoga Park High School in June 2000 and is currently district direc- tor of the “We the People” program of the Center for Civic Education, which provides textbooks for students and training for teachers.

Bob Collins Bob Collins has served as a secondary teacher, District One Superintendent, leadership advisor, assistant principal, principal, Los Angeles Unifi ed School District assistant superintendent and superintendent. He has implemented numerous initiatives and reforms in the past fi ve years including Open Court in grades K-5, a secondary literacy program, and a new K-12 mathematics program. He has been a leader in high school redesign, small learning communities, and technology in the classroom. Known as a strong advocate for character education, Mr. Collins has implemented the largest program of its kind in the nation in every District One school. His programs and educational initiatives have been recognized at local, state and national levels. Ray Reisler Dr. Reisler received a doctorate in educational Executive Director, planning from the University of Massachusetts at S. Mark Taper Foundation Amherst. He was one of the founders and directors of the public Alternative Junior HS in Ithaca, New York; a Junior HS teacher in East Harlem; and an education policy consultant in the Carter Administration from 1978-80 in Washington, D.C. Since coming to Los Angeles in 1989 to lead the S. Mark Taper Foundation, Dr. Reisler has served as a member of a statewide educational project called California Leadership, and was founder and now co-leader of the Education Funders Group, an affi nity group of Los Angeles foundations interested in public education reform.

Libby Morales A graduate of Robert Fulton Junior High, Libby Student, HighTechHigh-LA Morales was born in Van Nuys, California. Her mother is from Guadalajara and her father from Michoacán, Mexico. Ms. Morales has been a HighTechHigh-LA student council representative, and is now editor of the HTH-LA online magazine. On Saturdays, she is enrolled in a nursing assistant class.

Mathew McClenahan Mathew McClenahan earned a B.A. in political Teacher, HighTechHigh-LA science/economics from New York University and an M.A. in political science from Columbia University. He taught government, economics and world history at Monsignor Farrell High School on Staten Island, and was director of enrollment at Concord University School of Law. He embarked on his local teaching career at Birmingham High School and is a founding teacher of HighTechHigh-LA.

The Honorable Roy Romer’s career has spanned the private sector, Roy Romer the world of politics, and the fi eld of education. Superintendent, He earned a B.A. degree in agricultural economics Los Angeles Unifi ed School District and a law degree from Colorado State University. Superintendent Romer was Governor of Colorado for three terms. At the outset of his tenure in June 2000 as Superintendent of LAUSD Schools, he initiated computer-based learning programs and instructional coaching with the objective of vastly improving classroom instruction. Most recently, Superintendent Romer has turned his attention to building small learning communities at new schools, and converting some of the exist- ing, large high school complexes into smaller learning units.

Concluding Remarks

Roberta Weintraub

Guided Tours of HighTechHigh-LA

Boxed Lunches HighTechHigh-LA Founding Faculty and Staff

Marsha Witten Rybin Founding Principal B.A. History, U.C.L.A. M.S. History, U.C.L.A. M.S. Educational Administration, National University

“I see HTH-LA as an incubator for innovative ideas and education. The HTH-LA staff and I have a common intellectual mission. We want our students highly educated and ready to take their places in an evolving technological society. We want them to succeed in a competitive, challenging world where today’s knowledge must keep pace with tomorrow’s needs.

“I envision HTH-LA as a chance for youngsters of all abilities and skill levels to become successful, independent, mature students, ready for continued education, ready for the workplace and ready to be inquisitive, enthusiastic, well-educated contributors to the betterment of society.”

Karyn A. Koven College and Internship Advisor Journalism Instructor J.B.A. Journalism, University of Wisconsin B.A. English, University of Wisconsin Certifi cate in College Counseling, U.C.L.A.

“I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to work with some of the most progressive, involved and caring people in education. HTH-LA is about working as a team and as a community. Teachers and staff work together to integrate curriculum and resolve academic or personal issues faced by students. Students work together on project teams and experience fi rsthand what it means to be a cohesive group. The possibilities for our students are nearly limitless.”

Adrian Bewley Subject: English/Drama B.F.A. Theater, New York University

“The educational status quo isn’t working. I’m thrilled to be involved in a personalized educational program where there is a dynamic connection between what goes on in the classroom and what goes on in the real world. I see HTH-LA as a new model for education. I am thrilled to be here.”

Wun C. Chiou, Jr. Subject: Chemistry B.S. Chemistry, U.C. Berkeley M.S. Chemistry, U.C.L.A.

“Project-based learning encourages a greater depth of learning and retention of learned topics, and drives students to take charge of their own education, a crucial key to academic success. HTH-LA is an environment where academic achievement is valued. I am intrigued by the potential here and I want to make a difference.” Angela C. Jensen Subject: History/English B.A. History/Art History, U.C.L.A.

“I am delighted to be in a small learning community where students and teachers can really work together to achieve academic goals. I can really get to know my students. Project-based learning allows students to really plunge deep into ideas, not just skim the surface.”

Mathew McClenahan Subject: Mathematics /History B.A. Political Science/Economics, New York University M.A. Political Science, Columbia University

“HTH-LA is small enough so that it will be far more diffi cult for students to ‘fall through the cracks.’ After experiencing two years of teaching in the HTH-LA project-based, inquiry-based system, I can see it is working. We are forcing students to think critically and be creative. We teachers and students are lucky to be able to share an incredible site that matches our vision.”

Kevin Merrill Subject: Photography/Music B.A. English, U.C.L.A.

“I have taught at Millikan Middle School, U.C.L.A. Extension and Otis College of Art & Design. HTH-LA offers a new challenge. I see both teachers and students who really care about education, who really want to be here. For someone with an art background, I am thrilled to be in a building that, through its own design, presents art as part of a living environment.”

Silvia Neuah Subject: Spanish/Psychology B.A. Education, University of Buenos Aires M.A. Education (in progress), National University

“I am a very creative person, I love to teach. I care about the students, their families and their future. HTH-LA gives me the opportunity to be with others who truly care about the whole student. Even the structure is nurturing. There is a real understanding here that HTH-LA is connected with the reality outside its doors.” Brenda S. Pulido Subject: Spanish B.A. Spanish, U.C. Santa Barbara B.A. Psychology, U.C. Santa Barbara

“From the fi rst day I heard about HTH-LA, I knew I wanted to work there. It was a dream environment, a small community in a beautiful setting. This is an opportunity to grow in a challenging, diverse school where technology is an integral part of education. Students have the opportunity to get involved in project-based learning that is connected to the real world.”

Maral Rostami Subject: Mathematics/Logic B.S. Applied Math, C.S.U.N. A.S. Pure Math, Alzahra University (Tehran) M.S. Applied Math (in progress), C.S.U.N.

“I am most attracted to the HTH-LA project-based learning. That, the up-beat building, and small-sized classes make teaching and learning such a positive experience. I enjoy working one-on-one with students in hands-on collaborative situations. Add to that the technologically innovative classrooms and you have a formula for success. I think we are in the forefront of revolutionizing the business of education.”

Randolph Siercks Subject: Social Studies/History B.S. Agricultural Science, California Polytechnic, Pomona

“HTH-LA is the school of my dreams. It is small, technologically up-to-date, and serves a diverse population. The opportunity to excel is wrapped in a cheerful environment. I see us pushing the envelope of educational leadership and student success.”

Wendy Wooten Subject: Physics/Robotics/Robotics Team B.A. Biology, U.C.L.A M.A. Molecular Biology, U.C.L.A. Ph.D. Biochemistry, U.C.L.A. Post-Doctoral Fellow, U.C.L.A.

“I am strongly inspired by the enthusiasm, creativity and dedication of my colleagues. Together, we will provide a rich, relevant education for our students, instilling pride in intellectual accomplishment. This is an environment where we can guide all students to thrive academically, socially and personally.” Founding Support Staff

Brian Krinsky Director of Technology B.S. Information Technology, University of Phoenix A-Plus Certifi ed Citrix Certifi ed Administrator Citrix Certifi ed Engineer Check Point Certifi ed Administrator Check Point Certifi ed Engineer Microsoft Certifi ed Professional

“I came to HighTechHigh-LA for the challenge and I am staying for the rewarding experience. HTH-LA has the tremendous potential for being able to enhance the educational experience of its students. It feels good to be a part of a team effort toward positive change in teaching and learning methodology. HTH-LA students will be ready for the future.”

Joan Martin Educational Consultant B.A. Journalism, U.C. Berkeley M.A. Education, University of Redlands

“Everything about HTH-LA reeks of challenge and success. The building is a creative, colorful force. The technological innovations are muscles waiting to be fl exed. The staff is outside the box. Best of all, the students are benefi ciaries of an educational experience like no other.”

Assisting

Jack Kushnatsian Tevis Rybin Technology Assistant Assistant

Donna Patterson Nestor Gonzalez School Administrative Assistant Plant Manager

Joelyn Gil David Ibarra Senior Offi ce Assistant Maintenance Appreciation and Acknowledgments from HTH-LA

T he Los Angeles Unifi ed School District has been incredibly instrumental in the formation and completion of HighTechHigh-LA. We couldn’t have done it without their expertise and encouragement. They went the extra mile and then some.

Specifi cally, our thanks to Superintendent of Schools, Roy Romer, who has supported us from the beginning and has encouraged us at every turn. District 3 Board Member Jon Lauritzen, Area I Superintendent Bob Collins and Birmingham High School Principal Doris Lasiter were on board early to advise and solve one puzzle after the other. seemed in doubt. They never wavered in their commitment. Regional Project Director Phil It is diffi cult to fi nd the words to thank our Dowsing, Project Managers Lynn Powley and architect, Richard Berliner (Berliner and Associates) Will Rapp all were there, encouraging us day and Shidan Taslimi (Taslimi Construction), for by day as the project moved toward completion. creating our extraordinary home. Your innovation Thanks also to Complex Project Manager Steve and expertise have resulted in a campus that will Walker. We absolutely could not have done this inspire students and staff alike. without their help.

We are grateful to Chief Facilities Executive HTH-LA is a world of technology. We thank Jim McConnell, and Assistant Facilities Executive the magicians at LAUSD Information Technology, Jim Delker who saved the project when its future who helped us keep our wires from crossing and gave us technological capabilities beyond expec- tations. Chief Information Offi cer Megan Klee was there from day one as a supporter, advisor and cheerleader. Special thanks to Chief Tech- nology Director Themy Sparangis, Director of Telecommunications Pamela Anderson, Director of Network Operations Vickie Frederick, and Chief Technology Director-Infrastructure James Alther. Their help was generously given and gratefully received.

Budget Director Lorenzo Tyner led us out of the jungles of fi nance, fi gures and funds. Chief Human Resource Offi cer Deborah Hirsch helped us fi nd our incredible staff. We thank them both.

Thank you Assistant Superintendent Jean Brown and Charter School Director Roberta Benjamin. You made our journey possible by constantly giving us advice and counsel. And to former LAUSD Board Member Caprice Young, we owe a debt of gratitude for your early advocacy and support.

HTH-LA wants to particularly thank Larry Rosenstock and the HTH-San Diego staff. They were the inspiration for our program and we are honored to meet the challenge of replicating their accomplishments. We have learned so much from them and look forward to continuing our relationship as we both strive to serve the academic community.