Paramount High School Welcomes the Class of
Paramount High School held it’s first annual Sophomore Pirate Orientation on August 13th and 14th. Paramount High School Counselors Patty Jacobo and Maria Talamantes coordinated the event as a kickoff in implementing systematic interventions for the 2008-2009 school year. Mrs. Jacobo mentions that “the goal was to introduce incoming tenth grade
students to the senior campus in a way that showcased our Pirate Pride!”
A total of 826 incoming tenth-grade students actively participated in the event and were involved in three main sessions. The break-out sessions included Registration, Path to Graduation, and Pirate Olympics and were all facilitated by current teachers and
counselors. Students submitted all necessary school forms during the registration process, committed to personal goals during the Path to Graduation session, and interacted in numerous team-building exercises with our Track and Field Coach Chris Barboza during the Pirate Olympics that were judged by our Chemistry teacher, John Teeples.
The event was assisted with the incorporation of various student leaders from various campus clubs and organizations. Eleventh-grade student-leader Lizbet Ordaz mentions that “the Pirate Orientation showed the students that we are here to support them through their high school journey. The students will know where to go when they need help or assistance.” Lizbet further explains that the Sophomore Pirate Orientation experience will help the incoming tenth-grade students be more comfortable and prepared for the senior campus when they arrive later this month.
Ms. Talamantes mentions that “the event allowed for students to not only connect with other students, it allowed for them to feel a sense of belonging to our school culture.” She further explained that it gave students an opportunity to team build within their own grade level. When asked how she felt about the Pirate Orientation, incoming tenth grade student Adriana Herrera mentioned that “it was fun; it was a good way for us to get to know one another and communicate better.”
Greg Francois, Assistant Principal Paramount High School
PARENTS ATTEND PRESCHOOL ORIENTATION
Nervous parents, of first time preschool students, attended parent orientation meetings in August. They were anxiously waiting their
child’s first day of school. For most of the children, this is their first school experience. The parents were able to meet with their
child’s teacher and were able to catch a glimpse of what their child’s day would look like. Parents were encouraged to participate in the classroom along with their children. Preparing a child for school can be stressful and confusing for parents. The preschool program is designed to help parents prepare children to be successful in regular school.
The preschool programs teach pre-kindergarten readiness skills using the Open Court Pre-K curriculum. This curriculum aligns closely with the Districts Kindergarten curriculum. Higher expectations in kindergarten and the primary grades now require children to enter kindergarten better prepared than ever before for new learning
and skill development. The preschool programs help children make a successful transition from home to preschool and then on to kindergarten.
The District offers two types of preschool programs. Although most of the preschool classes are half-day (with either morning or afternoon sessions) there is also a full-day preschool program for working parents. The half-day preschools are located on the
SCHOOL
Alondra, Collins, Hollydale, Gaines, Mokler, Keppel. Wirtz, Zamboni and Los Cerritos campuses. The fullday child care preschool program is located at Gaines school. This program offers full-day childcare for children ages 3 to 5 years of age from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. For more information, please contact the Early Childhood Education Office at (562) 602-6900 or visit the office at 7340 E. Jackson Street.
Don’t Forget – Fill Out Your Student Meal Benefits Application
The Student Nutrition Services Department encourages all families who have students enrolled in Paramount schools to complete a new 2008-09 meal benefits application and immediately return the application to school. A new meal benefits application must be filled out each new school year. Families only need to fill out one family application even if they have children at more than one school. Your student’s current lunch/breakfast pin number will continue to work in the 2008-09 school year, whether they stay at the same school or transfer to another Paramount school.
Meal benefit applications for 2008-
09 will be included in the student information packet students receive on the first day of school. The cafeteria manager will be glad to answer any questions or assist with filling out the application. School meal benefits are offered to all families who qualify. If you have any questions or need assistance in completing the application, please contact Student Nutrition Services at 562-602-6031.
Remember to make healthy food choices.
Chris Stamm, Director Student Nutrition Services
Tranquil Summer at Gaines School
The four-week Summer School Program passed quickly for the 24 second and third grade students enrolled here at Gaines School. The program focused on strengthening students’ skills in Language Arts, Math, as well as to develop an appreciation for the Visual and Performing Arts.
Students had an opportunity to visit the Getty Museum and study the work of Artist Maria Sibylla Merian and her daughters. Students also visited the hands-on Art Center and were able to draw and color various insects and bugs that flourish in botanical gardens. Students appreciated receiving an Invitation Card to return to the Getty with their parents for another museum experience.
Gaines’ first grade student Xiara
Negrete was thrilled indeed when she applied for the Scholarship for summer lessons at Paramount’s Iceland and received it! We’re all looking forward to seeing her feats of accomplishment out on the ice. A big thanks goes out to Paramount Iceland for providing our local students with these first time experiences.
Also, if you’re in the neighborhood of Gaines School, check out the beautiful Title I Academic Achievement mural proudly displayed on the outside wall adjacent to the school office. Our entire school community is most proud of this Academic Recognition bestowed upon our students for outstanding achievement in both Language Arts and Mathematics.
Panthers and Parents Partnering Together
At Paramount Park School, the Partners in Learning Committee have committed to partnership with parents to support students at school as well as at home. The academic coaches, with the support of the committee members, have conducted several learning workshops which covered topics such as: Effective Way to Support Homework Practice, Understanding the Importance of Number of Sense, and Building Comprehension Through Questioning and Meaningful Engagement.
When presenting the information to parents, the presenters strive to incorporate practical hands-on activities that can be easily duplicated at home. The parents have learned the why and how teachers use active participation strategies as a learning tool to engage all students simul-
taneously. By using the strategies during the workshop, parents really understand how response boards and thinking-pairshare helps the students to take ownership for their intellectual development.
The Partners in Learning committee provides more than just general information. They share the latest learning techniques, and research based strategies to promote the idea that learning is a life-long commitment. As an additional support, parents are encouraged to ask questions and schedule a time to meet with teachers if extra assistance is needed. This bridge of communication is exciting and encouraging for both parents and teachers who are striving together to make sure that No Student is Left Behind!
Josie
Contreras Open Court Coach
Starting All Over
Adriana Hernandez stood alongside her grandmother and cousin on a late spring afternoon and watched the crowd filter into Progress Park Plaza. This brick building surrounded by jacaranda and eucalyptus trees held more than people, it held the next milestone in the new life she had been creating.
“I came back to the U.S. and left my family behind because I know that here, being an American citizen, would give me more opportunities with my educational career,” she pointed out recently.
Adriana was born in Compton to proud parents Salvador Hernandez and Gloria Martinez in September 1989. Three years later, she and her family moved back to Zamora, Michoacán, Mexico. She visited the U.S. in the summer of 2002 and came back for good in September 2007 after she graduated high school.
Then she decided to pursue her studies—and her dreams for a new life—at Paramount Adult Education Center (PAEC).
In September 2007 she signed up for a Beginning Low ESL class, where her talents and interest to excel were immediately apparent to her teacher. As a result, she was accelerated to the next level, Beginning High, and, by October, she had worked her way into the next level, Intermediate Low.
There she served as an inspiration to her classmates, friends, and even instructors. Her nearly perfect attendance, eagerness to learn, earnest effort, and positive attitude continued to give her amazing results.
Vivian Hansen, President
Sonya Cuellar, VP/Clerk
Alicia Linden-Anderson, Member
Linda Garcia, Member
Tony Peña, Member
District Superintendent
David J. Verdugo, Ed.D.
Eye On Education
Living with her uncle and aunt, Armando and Cesaria Hernandez, Adriana has missed her family in Michoacan terribly. There have been times when she would break into tears because of homesickness.
“Nothing in my life has been easy; everything I have done has been hard work. To come to a different city, and practically start all
over has been the greatest challenge of my life,” she recalls.
Adriana’s strength and determination have continued to lead her toward her dreams. She focused on her education and took more classes: Pronunciation and Speaking, ESL Multilevel, Intermediate High ESL, Distance Learning, and even computer classes like Windows XP.
All this brought Adriana to that special day at Progress Park Plaza. The large crowd included not only her two family members but also the PAEC principal and a member of PAEC’s office staff. Everyone was there to celebrate her recognition as a scholarship award recipient presented by Soroptimist International of Paramount.
Adriana’s presence and smiling face is truly missed here at PAEC. She continues to follow her rigorous schedule, but now at El Camino College in Torrance
“There are many more things to learn,” Adriana states, “but what I’ve learned has brought me to where I am today. It has been almost two years now since I first came back to the U.S., and I have not looked back, nor do I get discouraged by what it is to come. I will continue to study to accomplish my goals.”
With excitement and enthusiasm, she continues, “I’m very thankful to all the administrators, teachers, and staff [at PAEC] for motivating me and helping me achieve a smooth transition to college.”
The administration, staff, and teachers at PAEC would like to extend our sincere appreciation of her great work and diligence. We have no doubts that she will excel in anything that she puts her heart and mind to. She has continued to inspire fellow students to never give up on their dreams. She makes us very proud indeed.
Romi Del Rosario, PAEC Instructor
Good Luck Class Of 2012
Welcome Freshman Pirates to Paramount High School West Campus! On behalf of everyone here at West Campus we would like to congratulate you for your eighth grade achievements. You might be a little nervous entering your first year of high school, but there’s no need to fear. Faculty and staff at West Campus are always here to help.
There are many things to do here at PHS West Campus like sports, clubs, lunch activities and dances. We suggest that you get involved in as many as you can because you’ll meet many great teachers and make a lot more friends. There are so many things to do we guarantee you won’t get bored.
Here at PHS West Campus, the school is divided into two separate lunches. The lunch menu serves a variety of food you can choose from,
for example, Dominoes Pizza, Chinese food, sandwiches, chicken burgers, and grilled hot dogs and hamburgers. There are about sixty teachers, all of them great and nice. Just don’t push them or else you’ll get into loads of trouble through out the year. You will have a total of six classes, or six periods. Study hard and make sure you do all your homework.
Many will tell you that your freshman year will be the best year of high school, and it is! So, from your first arrival-make every day count. Live all your days at Paramount High School West Campus to the fullest, no regrets. And Good Luck Class of 2012!
-Gaby
Pedroza and Stephanie Perez PHS Class of 2011
Career Technical Education
Paramount Unified School District will be offering two new career technical education pathways for the 2008-2009 school year. These pathways give students the opportunity to learn academic and industry skills and knowledge in a sequence of classes that begin at the 7th grade level and progress to the 12th grade. Students can now enter into the Medical Industry or Technology Industry pathway and take classes that can lead to certifications, employment, and post secondary transitions. The Medical Pathway of Therapeutic Services will offer classes in Medical Technology, Health Careers Academy (ROP), Medical Assistant Occupations (ROP), Emergency Medical Responder (ROP), and Emergency Medical Technician (ROP).
The Technology Industry Pathway of
Media Support and Services will offer classes in Introduction to Media Services, Information and Support Services (ROP), Web Design (ROP) and Graphic Arts Technology (ROP).
The Medical Technology will be offered at the West Campus, and the Health Careers Academy class will be offered at both Buena Vista and the main high school campus. Information and Support Services will be offered at both Buena Vista and the main high school campus. The remaining ROP classes in both pathways will be offered at the main campus. You can obtain more information about these pathways by contacting counselors and/or administrators at the high school or by calling the office of Alternative Education at (562) 602-6014.
Wirtz School, Local Businesses and Community OrganizationsBuilding Partnerships!
We would like to take this time to thank two community businesses and organizations for their support and continued commitment to the students and families of Wirtz School.
Paramount Petroleum has been a partner to our school for many years. They have allowed our staff to park in their lot each day, to provide the opportunity for parents to have access to parking in our school parking lot. In addition, Paramount Petroleum donates over 50 gift cards to local grocery stores each year, so that we are able to provide many of our families with the support they need to purchase food items during the Holiday season. Also, our 8th grade students are all able to attend Disneyland at the end of the school year thanks to the financial contribution made by Paramount Petroleum. Mr. Bill Winters, Community Service Director of Paramount Petroleum, makes frequent contacts with Wirtz, always offering support and maintaining a good communication relationship that benefits our students and community.
The Rotary Club of Paramount has
Superintendent’s Message:
Dear Community,
Over the years, Paramount Unified School District and all of our employees have worked very hard to focus on quality educational programs that will move the District towards academic excellence and greater student achievement.
Recently we received our school district’s Academic Performance Index (API) scores that related directly to the State Testing Achievement Results. While we still have much to accomplish, I am very happy and proud to announce that the Paramount Unified School District received the highest district average gain in the past four years and 15 of our K-8 schools now have an API over 700!
We remain committed to moving Paramount Unified School District to the next level of excellence. The Board of Education has adopted priorities that build on our tradition of excellence while raising expectations for all students at all school sites. Our Board is committed to providing opportunities for all students to reach their highest potential.
As we begin the 2008-09 new school year, I want to take this opportunity to extend my sincere appreciation to every teacher, staff member, support staff, secretary, custodian, counselor as well as principals and assistant principals who challenge our students to do their very best.
On behalf of our Board of Education, we look forward to working together with our parents and community to continue to move Paramount Unified School District forward. I am looking forward to a great 2008-09 school year.
David J. Verdugo, Ed.D. Superintendent
Paramount High SchoolSenior Campus Introduces the Ambassador Club
become a partner to our school. The Rotary Club donated $3,000 dollars that we were able to use toward the purchase of books in our K-3rd grade classrooms. Teachers selected books that would support our students in the development of fluency and comprehension. The books were delivered in January, and parents were encouraged to come and view the books that were purchased. Our kids are becoming Reading Wizards!
The Rotary Club also sponsored some of our students in the purchasing of new clothing and shoes. These students were given the opportunity to go to JC Penneys and select these items themselves with the assistance of dedicated Rotary Members. It was a great opportunity for our students and they had a wonderful time.
A special thank you and appreciation is extended to Paramount Petroleum and the Rotary Club of Paramount. They are truly partners in the lives of our students and families and are committed to making our community a better place. Together we are building partnerships and are looking forward to working as a team in 2008-2009.
When Paramount High School Counselors Tamara Calero-Hill and Patty Jacobo reviewed enrollment data, they were surprised to see that approximately 300 new students enroll at our senior campus on a yearly basis. While in the process of creating and implementing systematic interventions, they worked collaboratively to create the Ambassador Club to better meet the needs of all new enrollees.
The Ambassador Club is a group of students who target and welcome all new enrollees to Paramount High School-Senior Campus throughout the entire school year. Mrs. Hill mentions that their goal is not only to welcome new enrollees, but to motivate the new students toward academic success through increased school involvement and relationship building with peers and staff. Mrs. Jacobos further explains that her vision for the Ambassadors is for them to reach out and make a connection to all new enrollees to ease their transition in coming to a new school.
When the buzz about the Ambassador Club began to circulate around campus last year, teachers were quick to identify potential candidates. Over 100 interested students attended the informational lunch meeting. Students submitted a re -
sume and went through an interview process. “Enthusiastic, energetic, friendly, and courteous” are qualities that an Ambassador Member should represent mentioned Mrs. Hill. Fifteen students were selected and they underwent training in the spring and summer. They are all eager to start the new academic year to provide new enrollees with campus tours, discuss the support services the high school has to offer and the great clubs, organizations and sports available for students.
Counselors follow up with the students within the first thirty days of enrollment to monitor their academic and social adjustment and encourage the students to join a school club, sport, and/or organization. Ambassador Club member Carmen Buenrostro shares that “I really like helping people and I want students to feel better about coming to our school.” Fellow Ambassador Club member Sherman Wilson also loves helping others and shares that “this experience in serving as an Ambassador has made me a better person.”
Welcome New PIRATES!!
Greg Francois, Assistant Principal Paramount High School
Hollydale Home/School Connection
Hollydale School recognizes the importance of parents and community members as partners in learning and provides many opportunities for all stakeholders to play an active role in the life of the school.
The PTA is an excellent way for parents to become involved in school activities. Among the many events scheduled for the 2008-2009 school year are Snow Day, International Day, Spooky Read Night, a Star Gazing Party, Dr. Seuss Day, Teacher Appreciation Week,
and grade level assemblies. The PTA also sponsors fund raisers to support the school with resources which enrich the educational experience for our students.
The Hollydale PTA is a vital link to the school and community.
In addition to the PTA, Hollydale offers other opportunities for parent involvement including the School Site Council, English Learner Advisory Committee, and the GATE Parent Committee. Special events such as Open House and Back-to-School Night also
Art is in the Eye of the Beholder
Three hundred 8th grade students had the opportunity to view world-renowned works of art at the J. Paul Getty Museum as part of PUSD’s summer school program. Students studied two particular pieces of art, Rembrandt’s “Europa” and Degas’ “Waiting” before visiting the museum.
Students participated in the Exploring Art through Writing program during the summer school program with activities facilitated by their teachers. An example of one such activity was “Art Inspired by Words” in which the students created a sketch based on a single literary passage and then compared their work with other students in order to understand how different artists can interpret the same passage in different ways. The Getty Center generously provided DVDs and copies of works of art for the students to study and respond to in writing. In addition to the curriculum and instructional materials, the Getty Center Education Staff provided a guided tour as well as the buses from Paramount to the Getty Center.
The visit to the museum gave students the opportunity to stand within just a few feet of artistic masterpieces. It was a wonderful opportunity for many students who were visiting the Getty for the first time. The students were fascinated by the multiple layers of paint utilized by the artist, Renoir, to create texture as well as the use of color by Vincent Van Gogh. They were also intrigued by other factors that influenced the artists such as time periods and historical events. Time stood still for many students who commented after their ninety-minute tour that it was too bad they had such a brief visit. Most agreed that they’d like to return again very soon. It was an experience they won’t soon forget. The Getty Center encouraged all students to return for a visit with their families by providing each of them with a two-month free parking pass. Admission to the Getty Center is always free of charge.
promote stakeholder involvement.
Grade level family nights are a wonderful way for parents to participate in the life of the school. These special events are scheduled throughout the year and range in focus from providing information on academic programs to providing opportunities for parents and students to enjoy time together in an educational environment.
Parent volunteers are always welcome at Hollydale whether it’s supporting the teachers in the classroom or
lending a helping hand in other ways. The commitment of our volunteers is greatly appreciated by the staff and students and is critical to the home/school connection.
Hollydale School values the role our parents and community members play in the life of the school. By working together, we ensure that all students have the opportunity to learn and to achieve success.
Susan Marilley, Principal
Visual and Performing Arts at Lincoln
Lincoln School students experienced the world of visual and performing arts with two musicals as the grand finale to end the school year. On June 6, primary grade students performed in a musical fairy tale featuring Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Audiences were delighted to watch characters learn about kindness and friendship through song and dance.
A week later, 4th through 6th grade Gate students invited friends and family to travel back in time and climb aboard a steamship headed for Ellis Island during the early 1900s. This musical titled “We Come From Everywhere,” allowed the audience to experience the joys and hardships of immigrants as they journeyed to America from Europe, Mexico, Asia, and Africa. The performance was highlighted with an international pa -
rade of children from every country across the globe.
Thank you to Mrs. Kelly-Hernandez , Mrs. Figueira, and Mrs. Zong for all of your hard work and dedication with Goldilocks and the Three Bears.
Thank you to Mrs. Naruko, Mrs. Short, Mrs Figueira, Mr. Baeza, and Mr. Naruko for making all things possible with the production of “We Come From Everywhere.”
These musicals were produced with the support of the Visual and Performing Arts program, implemented by the Paramount Unified School District. The VAPA program has greatly helped Lincoln students gain confidence in all areas through the development of art and music.
Michael Naruko Teacher
Parent’s Corner:
Welcome back to school! What a treat to have such an extended vacation this year and how exciting to see all the eager students, with new shirts, new shoes, and shiny backpacks. Let’s work together to maintain this level of enthusiasm in our children.
Research shows us that:
Students who eat a healthy breakfast are able to pay attention in class for a longer period of time than those who eat no breakfast or an unhealthy one. Did you know that oatmeal has been found to be one of the healthiest breakfasts around?
Students who get at least eight hours of sleep a night perform better on tests and activities that require problem solving skills.
Students who practice their reading at home become stronger readers. It’s nice to read with a parent, but reading to a younger brother or sister or even a teddy bear is beneficial too.
Please take the time to serve your child nutritious meals, see that they have an early bedtime, and try and read with them at least 15 minutes a day. It will make a difference.