Our Hometown Chula Vista - January 2019 by OurHometownMag

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JANUARY 2019

EDUCATION ADVOCATE: SCOTT ANDERSON

IN THIS ISSUE 04 BRAVO Announcements

06 NEWS On your Doorstep

15 FEATURE 25 ACTS of STEAM

22 SCHOOL NEWS College Readiness Program

25 CALENDAR Out & About

26 EDUCATION ADVOCATE Scott Anderson

EDITOR'S LETTER A new year always brings new levels of possibility, and who sees more of their future, of what is possible, than children? I am writing this Editor’s Letter from Austin, TX, where my husband Mark and I are visiting his cousin’s family for Christmas. The children—both girls—opened many Christmas gifts of all shapes and sizes. To our surprise, the gift that has given them the most joy is a set of ropes and pulleys. When the girls exclaimed, “Yea!” after tearing apart the brightly colored package, my husband asked the obvious question: “What will you do with a rope?”

JANUARY 2019

“It’s for our trees,” 11-year-old Emma stated. “We like to climb trees.” On Christmas Day, Emma and Haley, their dad, and “Uncle Mark” spent hours in the yard figuring out the best way to set up the ropes and pulleys. The girls climbed the trees, and Uncle Mark and their dad tied a rope here, attached a pulley there, and then some. Uncle Mark even unearthed an old cargo net that turned into the perfect seat. Pretty soon not only were the men hoisting the girls to the top of the tree as they dangled in their netted seat, but the girls could also pull themselves up to the top of the trees because of the mechanical advantage. It was a feat to behold! How did Mark and the girls’ dad know where to tie the ropes, where to place the pulleys, and how to string up a system that would work? How did the girls even envision what could be possible with ropes and pulleys in their trees? It turns out that my Christmas Day was an example of what is possible through STEAM education. Using simple ropes, pulleys, imagination and physics, Emma and Haley witnessed, and actively played on, hand-built contraptions of fun. The EastLake Educational Foundation (EEF) is dedicated to STEM and STEAM education for students at the six EastLake schools. The EEF knows that careers can be built and magic can happen through STEAM education, for boys and for girls. Take a look at our feature story to learn about this organization and opportunities that local youth have to creatively develop their imagination. “The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease for ever to be able to do it.” — J.M. Barrie

—AMBER WEBER, Editor O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 3

BRAVO PUBLISHED BY

MICHAEL MONACO Publisher

AMBER WEBER Editor

MELISSA MONROY Design

ARIANNA PINTADO Contributor

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Michael Monaco at Sales@OurHometownMag.com. EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS: Amber Weber at Editor@OurHometownMag.com. VISIT US ONLINE AT: www.OurHometownMag.com. Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission is prohibited. OHTM Inc. is not responsible for the views of contributing writers and assumes no responsibility for errors appearing within. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Publisher or advertisers. OHTM Inc has the right to refuse advertising. Contact OHTM Inc. at (619) 840−7722.

/ Great things happening in our community

› To SIENNA AT OTAY RANCH, which celebrated its grand opening as a new senior living option in Chula Vista. Nearly 200 guests attended, including Mayor Mary Casillas Salas. “We know that there is a dire need for Assisted Living and Memory Care in Chula Vista, so we’ve been working extremely hard over the past few months to put together an extraordinary care team and get this community open,” said Rosellen DeSimone, Vice President of Sales & Marketing. Some of Sienna at Otay Ranch’s on-site treatment options include geriatric care, optometry, dentistry, podiatry, rheumatology and lab services. Restorative and preventive medicine specialist Dr. Guillermo Castillo, Sienna at Otay Ranch’s Medical Director, will also be available to administer on-site care. “No one likes going to the doctor or being admitted to the hospital, so we’re going to try our best to deliver as much care as we can, right here in their home.” Another cause near and dear to Sienna at Otay Ranch is supporting local seniors and their families. “Seniors have shaped our community, and it’s important that we don’t forget about their contributions,” said DeSimone. That’s why we’re making a donation to Veterans Village of San Diego for every community member who attended our Grand Opening.” Although Sienna at Otay Ranch recently opened, its dedication to care and community have already encouraged multiple families to make the move to senior living. If you or someone you love is in the market for assisted living or memory care, Sienna at Otay Ranch might be a great fit. To learn more or to schedule a visit, call (619) 779-7400. › To FIRE CHIEF TIM ISBELL who has served as Chief of the Bonita-Sunnyside Fire Department since 2012. Chief Isbell spent his entire adult life committed to the safety of his community. Starting in the fire service in 1987, he graduated from the 16th Heartland Fire Academy in 1988. Then he earned an A.S. degree in fire science from Miramar College and a B.S. from Cal State Long Beach in occupational studies. He was hired by BonitaSunnyside Fire Protection District in 1991 and was promoted to Fire Chief in 2012. Some of his professional experiences include serving as president of the San Diego County Fire Districts Association, chair of the Board of Chiefs for Heartland Fire Training JPA, chair of the Board of Chiefs for Heartland Communications JPA, liaison for the San

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Diego County Fire Chiefs to the County Training Officers, board member of the Public Agencies Self Insurance System, alternate to the San Diego County Fire Chiefs for the SANDAG Public Safety Committee, Enhancing San Diego County Fire Protection working group member, board member of the Regional Cooperative Care Partnership JPA, vice chair of Heartland Fire Training JPA, alternate for the Regional Communications System, and vice chair of the Heartland Communications JPA. “It was an honor and privilege to have the opportunity to serve as Bonita-Sunnyside’s Fire Chief. BonitaSunnyside is a very special place, and I would like to thank the Board of Directors, Mike Sims, Annette Craven, the Bonita Firefighters Association, and the community for the opportunity to serve,” Chief Tim Isbell remarked warmly. › To the CITY OF CHULA VISTA for being designated as a Bicycle Friendly Community at the bronze level by the League of American Bicyclists. This award is presented only to communities with strong commitments to bicycling. Chula Vista has made bicycling a priority for many years with bike paths, bike lanes and bike routes marked on City streets. An electronic map listing over 140 miles of bicycle facilities is on the City’s website under “Chula Vista Bikeway Master Plan.” This designation marks the second time Chula Vista has been recognized as a Bicycle Friendly Community. The award is for a period of four years and was granted after reviewing the application and consulting with local cyclists and bike advocates. Roadway signs designating the City’s Bicycle Friendly Community status have been posted at key locations citywide. › To the RICHARD J. DONOVAN CORRECTIONAL FACILITY (RJD) AND THE SAN DIEGO SALVATION ARMY KROC CENTER for bringing Christmas to over 200 children in San Diego by building bicycles for them. The two organizations have partnered since 2014. Planning began in late August, with RJD executive staff meeting with the Inmate Advisory Committee and Inmate Family Council to collaborate on ways to support children in the community. They decided that a Costco food sale would raise enough money to cover the cost of the bicycles. RJD raised over $20,000, which not only was enough to purchase the bikes, but also enough to buy the children breakfast on the day of the giveaway and to purchase new bike locks and helmets.

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Photos (top to bottom) include Chief Tim Isbell and Sienna at Otay Ranch ribbon cutting ceremony.

On November 9, 200 children’s bikes, boxed up and ready to build, arrived at the RJD warehouse. A friendly bike building competition took place on November 17, and over 60 people helped build the bikes. Food was provided by Sergeant Arteaga with the California Crime Victims Coalition, and prizes were donated by Eastlake Church, which also had a team of volunteers helping with the build. With bikes purchased, built and checked for safety by Fire Chief Mario Hernandez and his crew, the only thing left was to surprise the kids with their brand new Huffy bike. Six news crews and over 200 children arrived at the Kroc Center on November 30. Warden Patrick Covello addressed the impact of the Bike Giveaway. “Every kid should experience the joy a bike can bring, and it was a tremendous blessing to see that joy on the kids’ faces. The joy that the kids experience has brought me peace which I can now bring back to the prison and share with the inmate population.” “We are so blessed to receive these bicycles, helmets, and locks for deserving children from the Donovan Correctional Facility,” said Major Rick Peacock, Executive Director of the Kroc Center and Corps Officer. “We value and appreciate the continued support for our community and thank the staff and inmates of Donovan who make this happen every year.”

Be a Bulldog! Enroll your child in Kindergarten at Finney Elementary for the 2019-20 school year Myrtle S. Finney Elementary invites you to enroll your child at its awardwinning campus, where strong academics are enhanced by full-time music and arts instructors who work with every grade level.

KEY DATES

February 6.............Registration packets available from your neighborhood school. February 20...........Registration packets are accepted by CVESD schools. February 20...........Kindergarten registration opens for children who will be 5-years-old on or before September 1, 2019.

For more information, contact the school office at (619) 690-1334. Finney is located at 3950 Byrd St., San Diego, CA 92154.

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NEWS

/ On your Doorstep

Chula Vista Police Department Receives International Award for Domestic Violence Reduction

On Nov. 7, the Center for Problem-Oriented Policing formally announced that the Chula Vista Police Department is this year’s recipient of the international 2018 Hermon Goldstein Award for Excellence in Problem-Oriented Policing. The Police Department received the award after presenting a new domestic violence program at the 28th Annual Problem-Oriented Policing conference in Rhode Island. Since 2015, the Chula Vista Police Department has led a research project to reduce domestic violence in the city. Police officials partnered with South Bay Community Services, the San Diego County Probation Department, the District Attorney, Child Welfare Services, Adult Protective Services, crime analysts and research partners to conduct a one-year study of new prevention and enforcement strategies. “The results were impressive,” said Police Chief Roxana Kennedy. “After the first year of the project, our department noticed a marked decrease in domestic violence crimes.” The department found that domestic violence in the research area dropped by 25%. In addition, victims of domestic violence reported far greater satisfaction with the police response. Importantly, 92% of victims said they would call police again for help. “Domestic violence is one of the most common, dangerous, and frustrating problems facing our officers,” Kennedy said. Officers often find themselves dispatched to the same addresses again and again. It can be difficult for victims to escape these types of situations. “There is a sense of futility and helplessness among both victims and police.” The initiative involved testing an offender-based, focused deterrence approach to reducing domestic violence. The goal of the project was to change social norms and behavior–without traditional legal interventions–unless repeated, customized and increasingly intensive police contacts were not effective. The approach helps take the burden off victims, who can often be intimidated by their circumstances. The program focuses on offenders instead. Officers tested the new approach in one geographic area of Chula Vista. They provided written warnings to offenders and handouts to victims. This project enabled officials to send a profound message to victims of domestic violence: prevention is a priority for the department, and officers will make every effort to protect victims from violence. Officers even stopped by the homes of reported victims to check on their safety and left handouts at the door. 6 OUR HOME TOWN / JANUA R Y 2 0 1 9

The Herman Goldstein Award is presented by the Center for Problem-Oriented Policing and honors Professor Emeritus Herman Goldstein who conceived and developed the theory of problem-oriented policing. The Center for Problem-Oriented Policing will pay for Chula Vista officials to present their innovative program to public safety agencies around the world, including those in the United Kingdom and Ukraine. “I am very proud of the innovative work of our officers,” said Kennedy. “This is just another example of the commitment our personnel make to keep our community safe.”

On your Doorstep

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On your Doorstep

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On your Doorstep

San Diego Restaurant Week Returns Calling all foodies, families and hungry friends alike—you are cordially invited to a deal so delicious that you’ll be grabbing your plate for seconds or even thirds! The 15th semi-annual San Diego Restaurant Week returns from Sunday, January 20 through Sunday, January 27 for an edible extravaganza to ring in the new year. This is the perfect time to join more than 150,000 diners on a culinary tour throughout the diverse and thriving food culture of San Diego. For these eight days only, over 180 participating restaurants throughout San Diego County will be offering three-course, prix-fixe dinner menus for just $20, $30, $40 or $50 per person and/ or two-course, prix-fixe lunch menus for only $10, $15 or $20 per person. With participating restaurants spanning across the county from the South Bay to East County and to the borders of Oceanside and Fallbrook to the north, you’re sure to find the perfect place to satisfy any craving. TRY SOMETHING NEW. With more than 180 participating restaurants across the county, there’s a new taste for every craving during Restaurant Week. San Diego offers a diverse selection of incredible cuisine, so it’s time to branch out from your well-worn and tired routine. Take advantage of this opportunity to try a featured chef-selected pairing at a restaurant you’ve never visited before. Go on–don’t be afraid to order a dish you can’t quite pronounce! DISCOVER SAN DIEGO. Whether you’re a lifelong local or are visiting San Diego for a weekend, there’s always something new to explore in the area. This incredible city is famous for its mouth-watering food culture, with a diverse range of participating restaurants in every neighborhood waiting for you to discover. You never know what you might find with this perfect excuse to step out your door. HAVE AN EXPERIENCE YOU’LL REMEMBER FOR A LIFETIME. This is a limited-time opportunity to create tasty memories with loved ones that will keep you satisfied all year long. Whether you’re getting back in touch with old friends, treating the family to some quality time, celebrating a major accomplishment with your colleagues, or sparking the heat on a romantic date, it can all happen over an enticing meal. Life is about creating memories that you can enjoy, and Restaurant Week was designed to do just that. Tickets are not necessary, but reservations are recommended. For more information and to view a list of participating restaurants, visit SanDiegoRestaurantWeek.com.

Elected Officials Take Oath of Office

Chula Vista’s newly elected and re-elected City officials publicly took their Oath of Office on Tuesday, December 11 at a Special Session of the Chula Vista City Council. MAYOR MARY CASILLAS SALAS won her second term as mayor. “It’s been an honor to serve the people of Chula Vista, beginning with my first election in 1996, always seeking to create a safe, vibrant, and healthy community. Much was accomplished in my first term as Mayor— improved streets, sidewalks, parks, Bayfront progress, and better mobility throughout our city. In this term, I look forward to hiring police and firefighters to make our city even safer, advancing the progress of the University, and seeing the completion of our Bayfront,” she commented. CITY ATTORNEY GLEN GOOGINS won his third straight re-election. “I am truly blessed to have been given four more years to serve "Our Hometown" as your City Attorney,” he said. “Chula Vista has many exciting opportunities ahead but is also facing some serious challenges. I pledge to redouble my efforts to make sure the City gets the best possible legal advice to guide it forward, and to make Chula Vista the kind of place our kids want to stay to raise their families,” asserted Glen Googins. FOR CITY COUNCIL SEAT 1, JOHN MCCANN was re-elected to his second term. “Thank you, Chula Vista,” he said. “I am humbled and deeply grateful for the tremendous support of our community. As a lifelong Chula Vistan now raising my children in our community, we have been successful in making our neighborhoods better and safer for our residents and families. I will continue to work tirelessly for the next four years focusing on public safety by hiring additional fire and police officers, increasing street repairs, and attracting high paying jobs to our area.” NEWLY ELECTED JILL GALVEZ will take her seat at the dais as Councilmember for District 2, replacing Pat Aguilar who termed out. “I would like to thank the citizens of Northwest Chula Vista for allowing me to be their voice on the Chula Vista City Council. Advocating for nearly 60,000 residents in Chula Vista’s District 2 comes with a lot of responsibility and hard work. For the next four years, I’m committed to serve this community with honor, passion, and love. I will give this district everything that I have,” commented Jill Galvez. The event’s emcee was Michael Monaco, publisher of Our Hometown Magazine. O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 9

On your Doorstep

Thinking of Buying a House? Learn about Interest Rates

Most people strive to experience the ideal life known as the “American Dream.” Part of that dream is becoming a homeowner. The problem is that the housing market is ever changing, and it is difficult to pinpoint the perfect time to buy. If you are thinking about purchasing a new home in San Diego, here is what the market currently looks like. Recently, the California housing market has witnessed an increase in the fixed-rate mortgage. This is a mortgage loan that guarantees an interest rate remains the same throughout the sequence of the loan. According to Mortgage News Daily, this past October, the 30-year fixedrate mortgage hit a 5% rate, making it the highest it has been since early 2011. This increase can make it more difficult for a buyer to afford a new home, making it that much more difficult to attain the American Dream. As the interest rates rise, the amount for qualifying income does as well. For instance, according to the California Association of Realtors, the average 30-year, fixedrate mortgage loan in California for the second quarter was $596,730.

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Given that there was a 20% down payment, at a 5% rate the monthly mortgage would be $2,563. To qualify for this loan plan, the buyer is required to have a minimum income of $129,958 per year. Even with only a half percent raise the difference is hefty. Say that person had purchased a house only a few months earlier when rates were 4.5%. With the same loan amount and same 20% down payment, the monthly mortgage would be $2,419, and the minimum qualifying income would be $124,203. “Interest rates before the recession in 2006 were sitting at just above 6%. We have had historically low interest rates that will continue to go up. The best time to buy is now,” suggests Minie Rzeslawski, with RE/MAX 24K Realty. “If you are not sure you can buy, but want to get serious, the first step is getting serious about your finances. Sitting down with a lender and getting pre-approved or working on a plan to be in a place where you can buy is vital.” With a 5% rate, homeowners will pay a difference of $144 more per month and will have to make at least $5,755 more per year.

Chula Vista Ballet Invites You to a Valentine’s Tea Party

If you’re looking for a lovely experience this Valentine’s Day with your youngster, then look no further than the Chula Vista Ballet’s Valentine’s Tea Party. It’s quite literally a sweet way to spend the day celebrating Valentine’s Day with your little ones. Attend this fundraising event, and you will find lots of mother/daughter pairs, several daddy/ daughter dates, numerous besties, and grandparents too! Dressing up is part up the fun and encouraged. Wear your frilly hat, your dainty gloves, and be ready to sip tea (or lemonade) with your pinkies up from fine china! After a lovely tea with plentiful scrumptious desserts, guests will be escorted into the performance area where the Chula Vista ballet dancers will delight and enchant you with excerpts from fairytales. After about an hour, young guests depart with a valentine to take home. The Tea Party is a fundraising event to benefit the Chula Vista Ballet, our city’s only non-profit ballet company. Proceeds will be dedicated to enriching the audience experience during the upcoming season finale productions, including vibrant new costumes and live performances by invited guest artists from around the world. Bring art to your life by supporting the local ballet while you enjoy a Valentine’s tea. Tickets are available for $15 at ChulaVistaBallet.org.

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On your Doorstep

Join the EastLake Educational Foundation and our MISSION TO TOMORROW

January 25, 2019 5:00 p.m. at The Venue at EastLake 871 Showroom Place, Suite 104 Chula Vista, California 91914 Tickets $60 • Cocktail Attire

Proceeds fund Technology and STEAM education in EastLake Public Schools.

PROUD SPONSOR

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On your Doorstep

December 2018 Proclaimed Drugged Driving Awareness Month by San Diego County Board of Supervisors

South Bay Historical Society

PRESENTS "WHY IS TELEGRAPH CANYON ROAD NAMED “TELEGRAPH CANYON”? By Peter Watry

The San Diego County Board of Supervisors issued a proclamation honoring the month of December 2018 as Drugged Driving Awareness Month throughout the County. It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of any substance if it causes physical or mental impairment that makes a person unable to drive safely, according to the California Vehicle Code. It does not matter if the substance is lawfully possessed or not. Alcohol, marijuana and other drugs affect drivers’ coordination, reaction time, judgement, tracking ability, situational awareness, perception, attention and/or ability to focus, the County proclamation said. Members of the South Bay Youth 4 Change (SBY4C) were among several teenagers who met with Board Chairwoman Kristin Gaspar on Nov. 20 to discuss why youth get involved with tobacco, alcohol and drugs. “I wasn’t expecting to see so many students from around the county working on the same thing we do,” said Elizabeth Liederman, a sophomore at Chula Vista High School and a member of the SBY4C. “Talking about how drugs impact our communities is important, and I’m glad we got to meet one of our county’s elected leaders for the discussion.” “I was surprised to see much more involvement from North County and that there are many who are involved in the community,” Manuel Liederman, a senior at Hilltop High School in Chula Vista, said. SBY4C members work to prevent underage drinking by asking adults to stop making it too easy to obtain alcohol and marijuana, both in the home and through retail stores.

Turn your mind back to the year 1870—the annihilation of Custer and the 7th Calvary is six years away—the massacre of the American Indians at Wounded Knee is 20 years away—and in Arizona, the end of the Apache Wars is still 16 years away. In Arizona, the U.S. Army is desperately trying to control the Apaches and make them stay on their newly created reservations. But they keep escaping. There are many Army forts spread around Arizona, with Fort Whipple, the commanding fort, in Prescott. There is also Fort Yuma on the California side of the Colorado River, and directly across the river is the Yuma Quartermaster Depot, which supplies all the Army operations in Arizona. The Yuma Quartermaster Depot is supplied by ships sailing from San Francisco to Yuma, via the Gulf of California, which takes about 14 days. In 1870, a new road is built from San Diego to Yuma. The main town on that road is Campo, where horses can be rested and changed. (State Highway 94 today approximates that road.) Shipping supplies from San Francisco to Yuma can now be done in seven days, although not in as great a quantity as in ships. In 1873, it is decided to string a telegraph line from San Diego to Yuma, and hence to Fort Whipple and the other forts. The line begins at the Western Union Telegraph office in the Horton House hotel in San Diego. It then goes south through National City (as there is no Chula Vista in 1873), then east through “Telegraph Canyon,” left at Otay Lakes to Jamul, i.e., the dirt portion of Proctor Valley road, on to Campo, and eventually to Yuma. The next time you are driving on Telegraph Canyon Road, let your imagination try to picture that scene nearly a century and a half ago. Become a member of the South Bay Historical Society (southbayhistoricalsociety.org) or join us during one of our free events. The new museum exhibit opening will be on January 26 at 1 p.m. inside the Chula Vista Public Library. Everyone is welcome to attend. O U R H O M E TO W NM AG.CO M 13

On your Doorstep

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On your Doorstep

The EastLake Educational Foundation (EEF) has been a bridge of support between the community and EastLake public schools for 25 years. The EEF believes that children with equal access to technology today will unleash the genius and innovation the world needs tomorrow. That vision is now more important than ever. The mission of the EEF is to work in collaboration with the community to provide resources for programs that continue to support EastLake public schools, ensuring students can succeed in a technology-driven world. The research is clear. STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) literacy depends on access to technology and high-quality, life-long STEM learning. Even for those who may never be employed in STEM-related jobs, a basic understanding and comfort with STEM and STEM-enabled technology has become a prerequisite for full participation in modern civil society and essential in most future jobs.

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Workforce estimates indicate that 65 percent of children entering elementary school today will end up working in completely new job types that are not yet developed. Jobs requiring STEM are not just for students who fit a traditional academic mold or particular demographic. STEM skills are needed in all industries. “STEM opportunities are for everyone, and we should encourage all kids to participate in science, technology, engineering, and math. Kids in school today will have unprecedented opportunities.” stated Janet Francis, Executive Director of the EastLake Educational Foundation.

Access to technology, computers,

Janet went on to say, “The community is an essential part of helping schools take the practical steps needed to educate students. Access to technology, computers, educational software, teacher training, nurturing partnerships with the business community, support for our military families, encouragement and programs for girls to seek STEM education—there are a lot of practical things that advance this effort. Like most things, it takes financial resources, a community willing to partner with our schools and everyone doing something to help.” Collectively it all makes real impact.

advance this effort.

educational software, teacher training, nurturing partnerships with the business community, support for our military families, encouragement and programs for girls to seek STEM education—there are a lot of practical things that

The EEF invites the community to show their support by participating in one of its three signature events: Taste of EastLake, presented by the Adrian and Betsy Gonzalez Foundation on January 25, The Stan Canaris “Tee it up for Tech” Golf Tournament on April 26, and EastLake Cycle & Run and Technology and Innovation Fair on October 19, 2019. Sponsors, volunteers and participants are essential for successful events. Participating in these events is a great way to partner, support and strengthen our schools while also having fun.

FROM THE BEGINNING… The EastLake Educational Foundation was created by the EastLake Development Company, led by Bill Ostrem, to help schools keep up with the changes in technology that the world was experiencing in 1995. At that time technology was becoming outdated as fast as new schools were being built. It’s fun to note that at that time there were no social media, smart phones or personal computers. A lot has changed since then. What has not changed is the EEF’s commitment to the community. Since 1995 the EEF has given over $2 million in grants to EastLake Schools. Last year the EEF provided $120,000 to the six EastLake K-12 schools. These funds provided computers and hardware, instructional software, technical staffing support, teacher training and after-school homework support. 1 6 OUR HOME TOWN / JANUA R Y 2 0 1 9

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ACTS

STEAM

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A NE W P R O G R A M : 25 A C T S O F S T E A M

ACTS

STEAM

“The STEM fields develop students’ minds in the life-long skills of critical thinking, problem solving, preciseness, and

This year the EEF has started a new program called 25 ACTS of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, math). This program will provide 25 different opportunities that engage kids and their families around STEM/STEAM themes. The effort kicked off last September. Programs held so far include a morning of engaging science provided to all 5th graders at Olympic View Elementary. The EEF partnered with Science Delivered to make this learning a reality. The EEF then partnered with EastLake Elementary to host STEAMBLAST Science Night, open to the entire community. The EEF brought in the Fleet Science Center, Rokenbok, Usborne Books, Robothink, South Bay Game of Throws, Science Delivered and Jersey Mikes for an engaging evening of science. The EEF then sponsored the South Bay Game of Throws held at EastLake Middle School, and most recently launched a new internship for EastLake High STEM/STEAM students. In the future, plans include partnering with other prestigious organizations such as Biocom Institute (which brings the San Diego Festival Science and Engineering to Petco Park), the Apple Store in Otay Ranch and San Diego Futures Foundation. To stay abreast of upcoming programs, go to EEFkids.org and sign up for the monthly email newsletter. “The STEM fields develop students’ minds in the life-long skills of critical thinking, problem solving, preciseness, and collaboration,” said Gloria McKearney, EEF board member, Olympic View past principal, and science advocate.

collaboration,” said Gloria McKearney, EEF board member, Olympic View past principal, and science advocate.

OPENING DOORS TO THE FUTURE

Earlier this year the EEF learned of a new club at EastLake High, Young Women in STEM Careers Club. The energy to create this program came from student Sofia Zaragoza and teacher Cheryl Bayley. Sofia and her classmates wanted to encourage girls to consider science fields and give back to younger girls. The EEF and Club developed a partnership.

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ACTS

STEAM

Sofia’s passion for this club was borne out of an internship opportunity that she had over the summer with UCSD. Halfway through her freshman year, her interest in the biological sciences piqued, and she decided to apply for the UCSD Research Scholars summer program. Sofia had no idea that this would become one of the most transformative experiences of her high school years. Her relationships with the members of the UCSD lab grew, and they agreed to have her continue beyond the summer and return to work on projects during school breaks. Using this new level of insight, she entered the Greater San Diego Science and Engineering Fair and presented her findings to the judges. She earned a blue ribbon that helped her confidence grow alongside her skills. She went on to be a part of authorship on a research paper in process of publication. Recently, she was accepted into Wellesley College. Way to go, Sofia!

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From these experiences, Sofia wanted to open opportunities for other girls and started the Young Women in STEM Careers Club to empower women in the traditionally male dominated field of science and take action to improve awareness of female underrepresentation. The club is actively moving forward, and the girls have worked with the EEF and Sweetwater District to create an EastLake Educational Foundation internship that will begin January 2019. This internship will help support the Club’s efforts and provide an opportunity to anyone interested in STEM/STEAM fields.

Check out the new EastLake Educational Foundation website at EEFKIDS.org. The new site highlights events, programs, resources, partners and much more.

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ACTS

STEAM

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SCHOOL

/ News

College Readiness Program Includes Student Study Sessions and AP Courses

In the 2017-18 school year, 10 Sweetwater Union High School District (SUHSD) high schools received a three-year grant from the Department of Defense for the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI) College Readiness Program (CRP) to dramatically increase student access to rigorous science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) advanced placement (AP) courses. The SUHSD/NMSI high schools include Bonita Vista High School, Chula Vista High School, Eastlake High School, Hilltop High School, Mar Vista High School, Montgomery High School, Olympian High School, Otay Ranch High School, Southwest High School and Sweetwater High School. AP STEM courses supported by the NMSI-CRP grant include AP English Literature, AP English Language, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Computer Science Principles, AP Computer Science A, AP Statistics, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics 1, AP Physics 2, AP Physics C: Mechanics, and AP Environmental Science. INFO ABOUT 2018-19 AP STEM STUDENT STUDY SESSIONS: Are you enrolled in a SUHSD/NMSI high school? If so, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the free study sessions available to you. Students currently taking AP STEM courses are encouraged to participate in three student study sessions per AP subject throughout the school year. Students who attend the study sessions experience NMSI quality trainers and materials and are eligible to win $20 Amazon gift cards. At the end of the school year, take the AP Exam, pass it with a score of 3 or higher and win $100.

Dates and locations for student study sessions can be found at http:// ccr.sweetwaterschools.org/nmsi-crp/. 2 2 OUR HOME TOWN / JANUA R Y 2 0 1 9

On your Doorstep

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OUT & ABOUT JANUARY 10

MARINE CORPS LEAGUE SOUTHBAY DETACHMENT 1207 MEETING @ 7 – 8 p.m. @ Chula Vista Veterans Home, Building F, 700 E. Naples Court in Chula Vista. Meet former and retired Marines, Navy, Army and Air Force veterans plus hear from a guest speaker. Please call Commandant Jim Thomas at (619) 227-9535 with questions.

DECOMPRESS “UN-NETWORKING” EVENT @ 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. @ Gentle Penguin, 289 3rd Avenue in Chula Vista. Everyone is welcome to decompress at a free business and social organic networking event. For more info, call Michael Monaco at (619) 840-7722 or email Michael. Monaco24K@gmail.com.

ART KIDS SAN DIEGO @ 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. @ Bonita Museum and Cultural Center, 4355 Bonita Road in Bonita. “Art in the Museum” provides free art activities in the South Bay for all ages.

CONCERT ON THE GREEN @ 4 – 6 p.m. @ Chula Vista Marina, 550 Parkway in Chula Vista. George James will entertain at the Sunset Pavilion. It’s sure to be a great show!

ICE CREAM SOCIAL @ 3 – 4 p.m. @ Chula Vista Recreation Department, 276 Fourth Avenue, Bldg. C in Chula Vista. Happy new year from the Otay Recreation Center! Come celebrate and build your own ice cream sundae with yummy toppings. This event is free to all participating youth, ages 5-12.

CHULA VISTA CHAMBER MIXER @ 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Mix, mingle and meet future business partners. $10 for members and $20 for non-members. Hosted by Chula Vista Golf Course at 4475 Bonita Road. For more info or to RSVP, call (619) 420-6603 or email info@chulavistachamber.org.

SWEETWATER MIDDLE SCHOOL ROBOTICS LEAGUE— VEX ROBOTICS DISTRICT COMPETITION @ 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. @ Montgomery High School Gymnasium, 3250 Palm Avenue in San Diego. Come and watch how middle school students battle up at the district VEX robotics league championships to secure a spot for the California VEX State Championship.

SWEETWATER HIGH SCHOOL ROBOTICS LEAGUE—VEX ROBOTICS DISTRICT COMPETITION @ 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. @ Montgomery High School Gymnasium, 3250 Palm Avenue in San Diego. Come and watch how middle school students battle up at the district VEX robotics league championships to secure a spot for the California VEX State Championship. BRIDAL SHOW @ 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. @ Chula Vista Golf Course, 4475 Bonita Road in Bonita. Complimentary admission. To RSVP, call Rebecca at (619) 4794141 x. 225 or email rdeltoro@ chulavistagc.com.

20-27 SAN DIEGO RESTAURANT WEEK. With over 180 restaurants to choose from, options include three-course prix-fixe dinner menus for $20 - $50 per person and/or twocourse, prix-fixe lunch menus for $10 - $20 per person. Visit sandiegorestaurantweek.com for more info.

FILM FORUM @ 6 – 8 p.m. @ Chula Vista Civic Center Auditorium, 365 F Street in Chula Vista. Friends of the Chula Vista Library invite you to a classic film discussion series with featured film “Gabriel Over the White House” (1956, 93 minutes, not rated).

TASTE OF EASTLAKE @ 5 p.m. @ The Venue at Eastlake in Chula Vista. Join the EastLake Educational Foundation and its mission to fund technology and STEAM education in EastLake public schools. Tickets are $55 prior to Dec. 21 and $60 after Dec. 22. To purchase, visit www.eefkids.org.

SAVE YOUR SCRAPS @ 10 a.m. – noon @ Montevalle Community Center, 840 Duncan Ranch Road in Chula Vista. Join I Love A Clean San Diego and the City of Chula Vista for a complimentary organics workshop to learn water conservation tips, how to shop smart, store food properly and compost your scraps. Participate in the community Swap 'n Shop, make and take project and raffle. Register at https://goo.gl/ forms/cZafgXXDQKLATU1m2.

 FOLLOW @OURHOMETOWNCHULAVISTA ON FACEBOOK! PLEASE NOTE EVENTS AND TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

JAZZ AT THE BONITA MUSEUM @ 3:30 p.m. @ Bonita Museum and Cultural Center, 4355 Bonita Road in Bonita. All ages are welcome to the first jazz performance with vocalist Katie Ward and guitarist Jeremy Field. Reception for the National Sculpture Society: Southern California exhibition will be from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Suggested donation is $10 and includes a drink ticket. For additional details, email JFieldBMCC@gmail. com.cZafgXXDQKLATU1m2.

SAVE THE DATE 02/09: VALENTINE’S TEA Hosted by Chula Vista Ballet @ 2 and 4 p.m. @ Neisha’s Dance & Music Academy, 870 Jetty Lane in Chula Vista. Ticket costs $15. Buy tickets at Neisha’s Dance & Music Academy or at Farmers Insurance, 642 3rd Avenue in Chula Vista. For more information, call (619) 5851133, email chulavistaballet@ gmail.com or visit www. chulavistaballet.org. 02/22:CHULA VISTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE INSTALLATION DINNER & DANCE @ 6 – 11 p.m. @ The Venue at EastLake, 871 Showroom Place, Suite 100 in Chula Vista. Congratulate and thank our former officers, and welcome officers and board members for 2019. RSVP on or prior to Friday, February 15. Please call (619) 4206603 with any questions.

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EDUCATIO N ADVO CATE

SCOTT ANDERSON / CVESD Parent Leader Inspires, Advocates for Students

Scott Anderson first became involved in the Chula Vista Elementary School District about seven years ago, when he and his wife became foster parents to three school-age sisters. One of the girls had an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Anderson not only had to learn to be a parent for the first time, but he also had to learn about education and special education. “Foster kids are typically two years behind in their education,” Anderson said. “Our goal was, ‘How do we get these girls up to grade level?’ That really energized us into learning what to look for in the classroom, and how we could support them.” Anderson, 48, and his wife adopted the girls three and a half years ago. “They were not just a number. What these kids needed was a stable, ‘forever’ home. That’s what we gave them,” Anderson said. In the process, Anderson became an education advocate for all students. He knew the challenges that life can bring and the strength and resiliency that students need. You see, Anderson has had cerebral palsy since birth. Tasks that others take for granted, such as walking and speaking, Anderson had to adapt to and overcome. Anderson’s start as an involved parent at his children’s school evolved with his own learning and advocacy. He grew into a District parent leader and served as chairman of the District Advisory Council. He was also part of the

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“Parent Cabinet” of Superintendent Francisco Escobedo, Ed.D. “Scott Anderson is an inspiration to students, parents and staff,” Dr. Escobedo said. “In fact, he inspires me.” Anderson is an especially strong advocate for two of the most challenged target groups in schools today: foster youth and special needs students. He and his wife are now fostering a two-year-old boy. In working with CVESD’s Parent Academy Planning Committee, Anderson helped ensure workshop sessions were offered for parents of foster youth and special needs pupils at the half-day event for parents. As a child who grew up attending schools in the 1970s and 1980s, Anderson recalls when special education was nothing like it is today. As the only disabled student in the elementary school he attended, students did not know how to interact with him. They bullied him. Anderson looked within to help overcome the slights and abuse from other students. “I got my strength from my faith. God made me just the way I am…What I needed to realize in my mind is that I am special just the way I am,” Anderson said. Parents of special needs students find hope in Anderson. Students see him as a real-life example of beating the odds. “I tell them you are made special just the way you are,” Anderson said. “You can do it. You can do anything. Try it. You may fail. You may not. And that’s where you find out about yourself.”

ACTS

STEAM

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