Jaime McFaden, Malia Fort, Tarmo Hannula, Monica Menard, Steve Miller, Elizabeth Borelli, Susan Tatsui-D’Arcy, Yesenia Gomez-Carrillo, Steve Miller, Collen Murphy. Tova Petra Kolodinski, Sarah Krummel, Joanna Jenkins
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Bobbi Jo Palmer
AD REPRESENTATIVES
Ann Fitts Sophie Veniel Bob Pursley advertising@growingupsc.com
CONTACT US
408.656.1519
editor@growingupsc.com
P.O. Box 3505, Santa Cruz, CA 95063 AUGUST 2025 | VOL. 29 NO. 8
Jim Booth Swim School
Even small changes can make a BIG difference.
Triple P is a scientifically-proven, world-renowned positive parenting program available to families in Santa Cruz County.
Triple P strategies address a wide range of parenting challenges by providing a toolbox of easy-to-use tips.
Find a full schedule of Triple P tips and classes at triplep.first5scc.org.
It’s Already That Time of Year Again: School!!!
OK. Mind shift. School? It starts when? Like, now.
How did that happen? It feels like the middle of summer. Are you and your kids ready?
Parents: we’ve got so much important information in this issue to help. I’m truly proud of this one (Yes, I feel that every month…but this one, wow!!!)
We’ve got new columns and new writers I think you will love. Please, drop us a line and let us know what you want to see more of.
Some of the hits: we’ve got the story that answers why school starts so soon here, unlike many other places that wait until after Labor Day (which feels right to me). Writer Joanna Jenkins did some digging on this one.
We have two stories that focus on something they don’t teach enough of in school: financial education for kids and parents. In one, Colleen Murphy suggests not using chores as a payment option for kids. It’s one of my favorite tools, but her suggestions really opened my eyes to other ways to motivate.
In the other, our friends at Bay Fed (and who knows more about money?) break the myths that kids see in handling dollars (you mean that credit card isn’t a magic way to buy anything?). If only for those articles, you’d get your value for the $10 you spend on this magazine (what? It’s free? Oh yeah. What a value!)
We’ve got three new columns this month. One, which I’ve wanted for years, is about special needs, the kids who are overlooked and too ignored in our system (and it’s getting worse in a new federal world that scorns DEI). Please send in your questions and suggestions on topics there for Tovah Petra Kolodinski, a brilliant authority. Send
Catch the Social Media Wave
Don’t miss the Growing Up in Santa Cruz videos on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. To promote your business to thousands of viewers in the area each week, email editor@growingupsc.com or call (408) 656-1519.
them to editor@growingupsc.com.
We’ve also got one on women’s fitness by Monica Menard, which will have tips and suggestions readers will love. Finally, we’ve got one on grandparents volunteering in the classroom, an invaluable benefit for our struggling schools. Author Steve Miller (not the rock star, but a star anyway), runs Shared Adventures, which puts on recreational activities for the disabled population, truly heroic work.
Then there’s Susan Tatsui-D’Arcy’s advice for helping teens in school (kids never stop being kids and they need just as much help as they get older). She’s got very important information about AP classes designed not for students going to college, but for learning about the real world. We need these and I wish I had them when I was a student!
On the fun side, Jaime McFaden has a preview of a place to get fit while dancing in lines. It’s becoming quite the fad, right up there with pickleball. And in a feature you have to share with your daughters, Malia Fort suggests how to pick the perfect outfit to start the school year with, complete with photos. On the food front, nutritionist and celebrated author Elizabeth Borelli, has recipes to help trick your kids into eating healthy and making treats they will love. Finally, we have an adoptable pet and advice for how to keep them cool in the summer time, something we all need to know. (Why haven’t they invented sunscreen for dogs?)
And on a very positive note: our cover features the best news in a while: free pre-K for all Santa Cruz children! Check On the Cover for info. Thanks for reading and we hope to help you ease back from summer vacation.
Brad Kava,
Editor and Publisher
On the Cover
Starting in the 2025–26 school year, every family with young children in Santa Cruz County will have access to high-quality early learning through California’s Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) initiative. UPK programs offer free and low-cost preschool for kids ages 2 to 5, along with Transitional Kindergarten for children turning 4 by Sept. 1. These opportunities are open to all families, regardless of income or immigration status.
The Santa Cruz County Office of Education wholeheartedly supports this effort to give every child a strong start. Learn more at (831) 466-5820 or visit childcare. santacruzcoe.org. Better beginnings start now!
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Thanks for Common Sense Approach to Train
Dear Editor, Thank you for writing this common sense piece in Growing Up. You’d think the ZEPRT study’s cost estimates and paltry ridership projections would be the final nail to put an end to the studies.
It should now be obvious to the RTC the best course is to railbank the corridor and build a bike/ped super highway at least until some other transit comes along not named fixed rail. On any tax measure the voters will be interested in reality, not fantasy. And those who claim, like Saladin Sale in the 7/23/35 Sentinel op-ed, that our population will increase by thousands is not paying attention. Santa Cruz County’s population has been decreasing for 5+ years, and the County projects it to remain mostly flat through 2050 - even with all of the new construction. The Fed’s target of 2% inflation will turn the $4B to $5B in 10 years assuming no corners are cut on bridge and trestle construction. And that’s before the operating expenses are inflated. Is the RTC seriously considering this is feasible? Let’s open the corridor ASAP for active transportation and the 2+
million annual users who will use it each year. That’ll take cars off Hiway 1 and surface streets, improve traffic, and be an economic engine for tourism. Thanks again for keeping it real.
~ Tim Brattan
Dear Editor, Thanks for the editorial “Trail no Rail”. A 2-3% sales tax will never pass with a 2/3rds majority. Voters are becoming more informed about the infeasibility of a 4 billion dollar plus passenger in our county of only 265K residents. Regarding the sales tax hike that would be needed to fund such a boondoggle, bear in mind that by being the highest rate in the state, major purchases (think vehicles, appliances, computers, TVs, furniture, etc.) will be made out of our county, thereby reducing possible tax revenues. The best course of action, which you support, is to rail bank the corridor. It’s been done in hundreds of communities across the country with great success. By doing so we can have a wide, safe, affordable, continuous, environmental sound, multi-use trail that would get far more ridership that a train serving
only higher income people between Watsonville and Santa Cruz.
~ Buzz Anderson
Dear Editor, We really appreciated the very comprehensive Special Needs Resource Guide in the July issue. Though I am disappointed one of the community’s most popular organizations was somehow over-looked.
Shared Adventures has put on recreational activities for the disabled population—both physically and cognitively challenged—of all ages for over 30 years. In fact, on July 12, we just held the 31st Day on the Beach event with over 300 participants (and hundreds of volunteers and care-givers).
Shared Adventures puts on over 100 activities a year, ranging from archery and art classes to horse-riding and swim hour to family summer camp and dances. Check out our website at sharedadventures.org and signup to receive the weekly calendar of activities.
~ Steve Miller, Shared Adventures
YOUR HEALTH
Surf City Line Dance Brings People Together One Step at a Time
BY JAIME MCFADEN
Out of all the types of self-care there is ONE that has been linked to the greatest determining factor of someones overall health: SOCIAL selfcare. In a world where so many of us are feeling isolated, on computers all day and overwhelmed - it’s time we bring some “old-school vibes” back!
Looking for something fun to try with the whole family, that has made a HUGE comeback since the 80’s/90’s it will get your heart rate up, boost your social life and enhance your brain health?
Look no further than local Line Dance Sensation, Niko Takaoka, founder of Surf City Line Dance. It is an experience you don’t want to missand her warm, welcoming energy is the greatest bonus.
Niko has an inspirational story, I am thrilled to share as I hope it will inspire someone else to take the PLUNGE on a dream.
I met Niko over a decade ago while training Fitness Instructors The Popular Jillian Michaels “Bodyshred” method. We hit it off instantly, her personality is bright and calm,
passionate and enthusiastic - I reconnected with her years later while hosting a 30 day Self- Care challenge. She reached out to me expressing her life shifts and how she was feeling extra life stress, from her beloved mother passing, to not feeling motivated and stuck - she was wanting a shift and not sure how to move the needle. When asked what her DREAM self-care looked like, at that time she mentioned wanting to launch a line dancing brand but having NO idea how to make it
reality. She has worked a steady job for many years and the idea of launching something was intimidating.
Over the 30 days, she not only crafted her brand, website, assets, launch date - she was what we would consider a A+ student in every way. Showing up for herself and also others in her life knowing it was time. She LISTENED to her inner voice. And teamed up with other women in the group who supported each other every step of the way.
She kicked off her first class at the Old Saloon on Portola and that morning I called her and said she wasn’t sure if anyone would show up..
Niko had over 50 people show up that night! Ever since last April, she has had weekly classes, led private events, pop ups all over the bay area! Her and her husband Johnny are pioneers in the bay area and I got to experience it with my whole family at the Woodhouse Brewing Co and Niko had over 100 people dancing together, laughter, joy and a great workout!
May this story be one which inspires you to take time and listen to what your heart is telling you. Usually there is a
whisper and often we try to pretend we don’t hear it. Niko said “the support has been life changing, I know I am not alone and we have create this big community and we love each other!”
She continued sharing, “People are telling me each week how much fun they are having and the new friends they are making. They look forward to dancing each week. It is bringing joy to the community which feels so good. The best part is we have all ages from 8-90 years old dancing together and having a great time!”
Niko is especially humble and when I asked her how the community can support her she said the best thing is to come out and try a class - no experience required, all ages and you can come with a partner or even on your own and make new friends!
Be sure to follow surfcitylinedance. com/ and check out a class. Niko hosts weekly classes and does lots of private events – so you can even book her for yours.
I asked Niko what she has learned from this experience, “if there is something you are passionate about and want to try it - GO FOR IT!”
Free Backpacks, Supplies for Students
BY TARMO HANNULA
Over 400 area students were given a running start for the upcoming school year as they were presented with free backpacks loaded with school supplies Saturday in an upbeat gathering in Watsonville Plaza.
Thanks to the Salvation Army in Watsonville, Freedom Rotary Club, Scouting America and others, swarms of kids and their families lined up for the annual giveaway that included new colorful backpacks stuffed with pencils, notepads, glue, binders and other classroom tools that will help them with their education over the school year that starts Aug. 13.
“We want to make sure that every youth has equal opportunities starting school with the right resource so they can make sure they stay ahead of what the schools are doing and making sure they are planned and prepared,” said Trina Coffman-Gomez, advisory board of Rotary Club of Freedom and District Chair for Scouting America. “This is just a way to give back to the community.”
Information tables were sprinkled around the plaza, including a mobile van from the Environmental Science Workshop. To kick the event off, the
local folklórico dance group, Estrellas de Esperanza, treated the crowd to a number of traditional Mexican dances, complete with dazzling attire.
“There are so many things the Salvation Army helps our community with, including hot meals seven nights a week for those in need — typically 80 to 130 people — and meals to take home on several holidays,” Coffman-Gomez said. “We just want to make sure that all families, regardless of their situation, if they need help, we’re here to be able to provide that.”
STUFF THE BUS
The Santa Cruz County Office of Education and United Way of Santa Cruz County are teaming up to send local students back to school with the supplies they need to succeed as part of the 16th annual Stuff the Bus school supply drive.
The campaign aims to distribute 2,500 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to Santa Cruz County students experiencing homelessness, housing insecurity and other hardships. After raising funds and supplies from generous donors, it’s time for a team of dozens of volunteers to fill up the backpacks —
and Stuff the Bus. The Stuff-A-Thon is hosted in partnership with the Santa Cruz Warriors and UPS. The event will be held from 10am-1pm Aug. 2,at Kaiser
For more information, visitunitedwaysc.org/stb.
Permanente Arena.
Meet Your Fitness Trainer Specializing in Women’s Fitness
BY MONICA MENARD
Raised in the San Lorenzo Valley, Monica is an ACE (American Council on Exercise) nationally accedited Certified Personal Trainer. She holds a specialty degree in Prenatal and Postpartum through PROnatal, New York, holds a Bachelors Degree in Relational Communication Studies has been sculpting programs for healthier bodies for over fifteen years, guiding women through every stage of their wellness journey.
Whether it’s preparing the body for the demands of motherhood, rebuilding strength and function after baby, regaining function and ability no matter if one has had children or not, she blends motivation with know-how that leaves clients trained up for a lifetime. While raising her two daughters is her first calling, her passion for fitness runs a close second igniting energy and confidence in women across our community. Why women? After her own
and confusion around training the body for and before pregnancy and the months and years postpartum.
Motivated to get her training and technique in the hands of those who need it most she thrives on working with women, a group she finds endlessly inspiring and in need of defined guidance around motherhood. Defining goals, discovering weaknesses, highlighting strengths, and filling in any obscurity around working out with purpose and safety all inspired the name for her business: Defined Fitness.
In sessions her style isn’t only about training-she transforms lives with her knowledge, meeting you where you are with enthusiasm, igniting energy and confidence, passing on skills you’ll have for a lifetime.
Effective communication allows the crafting of personalized plans with real understanding. She ensures every woman feels heard, empowered with defined goals and ready to conquer them.
Whether you’re a new mom
thinking about starting a healthier habit, or a grandparent aiming for better strength and function, her knowledge paired with her knack for building trust creates a space where women thrive-physically and mentally. So, Santa Cruz, ready to feel stronger, healthier, and unstoppable? Monica is your go-to guide for a fitness journey that’s as fun and doable as it is transformative!
Look here for tips, free advice and interesting women’s fitness topics uncovered. Submit requests to the editor if you’d like to ask her something!
For more in depth and focused tips, follow her on Instagram trainingby_ monica and Facebook Defined Fitness. Limited training spots are available now for small group fitness and individual training sessions. Email for info monicapmenard@gmail.com. Mention Growing up in Santa Cruz and receive a free consultation.
Zoodles, Pancakes and Summer Fun
BY ELIZABETH BORELLI
Name one summer crop that’s just as delicious folded into pancakes and muffins as it is tossed in peanut sauce or threaded onto the grill. It’s the seasonal sensation known as zucchini, and when it’s fresh and abundant, the ways to enjoy it are nearly endless.
When I was a kid, our garden would explode every July with so much zucchini we had to get creative. I remember my mom’s zucchini pancakes, which we topped with a dollop of sour cream for a savory treat. Then there was her zucchini bread, studded with walnuts—moist, sweet, and irresistible. Of course, we also made Italian-style sautéed zucchini with onions, garlic, and tomatoes, or marinated and roasted it in the oven, perfect alongside any summer barbecue.
I loved passing those recipes on to my own kids, but they surprised me with a fun new way to transform my favorite squash into noodles. The spiralizer, or “Zoodler,” is as practical as it is entertaining—and once you start, the possibilities are endless.
Although zucchini is often considered a vegetable, it is botanically classified as a fruit; one also rich in multiple nutrients:
Vitamin C – Supports immunity, skin health, and antioxidant defense
Vitamin A (as carotenoids lutein & zeaxanthin) – Important for eye health
Manganese – For metabolism and bone health
Potassium – Helps maintain healthy blood pressure
Magnesium – Supports muscle and nerve function
Folate & B6 – Important for energy and cell function
If you don’t have a garden—or a neighbor who does—you can still pick up fresh, locally grown Pinnacle Farms zucchini at Shopper’s Corner market. And if your kids are ready to spend some time in the kitchen, zucchini is the perfect way to help them discover how delicious healthy food can be. Since kids sometimes cringe at anything green, you can peel the zucchini first, then invite them to help shred it
along with some Parmesan or feta cheese to make easy zucchini pancakes. Choose a box grater with a wide base and a comfortable handle that’s easy to grip. Many models include finger guards or food holders to keep little hands safe. Rotary graters are another great option for shredding cheese or vegetables. Look for sturdy models with a secure base and a handle that kids can turn with ease.
EASY ZUCCHINI PANCAKES
Makes: ~8 small pancakes (serves 2–3)
Ingredients
2 medium zucchinis (~2 cups grated)
2 large eggs
1/3 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan or feta (optional)
2 green onions, chopped (or 2 tablespoons minced onion)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Olive oil or avocado oil for cooking
Instructions
Prep the zucchini
Grate the zucchini and place it in a colander.
Sprinkle lightly with salt and let it sit 5–10 minutes to draw out excess
moisture.
Squeeze out as much liquid as you can using a clean kitchen towel or your hands.
Mix the batter
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs.
Stir in the flour, cheese (if using), green onions, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Fold in the squeezed zucchini until evenly combined.
Cook the pancakes
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and coat with a thin layer of oil.
Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the skillet and gently flatten.
Cook ~2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and set.
Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
Serve
Enjoy warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
For kids with a bit more kitchen savvy, the Zoodler or a vegetable spiralizer is a fun way to experiment with new recipes. Pick one up at Toque Blanche or Target (for less than $30!) to make yummy zucchini noodles you can eat just like pasta. Simply steam and add your favorite sauce.
KID-FRIENDLY ZUCCHINI NOODLES WITH PEANUT SAUCE
Serves: 2–3
Ingredients
For the Noodles:
3 medium zucchinis, spiralized or peeled into ribbons
1–2 cups cooked noodles (spaghetti or rice noodles) to mix in if kids prefer familiar pasta
For the Mild Peanut Sauce:
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos for less salt)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
1–2 tablespoons warm water (to thin)
Instructions
Make the sauce:
In a bowl, stir together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar.
Add warm water slowly, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Prep the noodles:
Pat zucchini noodles lightly with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. For extra softness (great for little kids), quickly sauté them in a skillet with a tiny bit of oil for 1–2 minutes. If using cooked pasta, prepare it according to the package directions and drain.
Combine:
In a large bowl, toss the zucchini noodles (and cooked noodles, if using) with the peanut sauce until coated. Mix in the shredded carrot or bell pepper if your kids like veggies.
Serve
Sprinkle with a few crushed peanuts or sesame seeds (optional).
Serve right away—great warm or room temperature.
KID-FRIENDLY TIPS
If they’re hesitant about zucchini noodles, mix half zoodles and half pasta. For very young kids, cut noodles into shorter pieces for easier eating.
Serve with mild sides like apple slices or plain rice.
Let kids help spiralize the zucchini— they often love making “noodle ribbons.”
Whether you’re harvesting it by the crate or picking it up from the market, zucchini is a summer standout that’s easy to love and endlessly versatile. From nostalgic family recipes to fun new twists, it’s a reminder that good food doesn’t have to be fancy—it just has to be fresh, shared, and made with a little heart. So grab a grater, fire up the skillet, or break out the Zoodler and invite your family to enjoy the bounty!
Elizabeth Borelli is a published author and Mediterranean Lifestyle Expert. Visit her website for free resources, news and events.
BACK-TO-SCHOOL GUIDE
SCHOOLS
Acton Academy Santa Cruz 440 Frederick St Santa Cruz
www.ActonSantaCruz.org
info@actonsantacruz.org
At Acton Academy Santa Cruz (440 Frederick St, Midtown), learners ages 4–18 embark on a transformative, learner-driven journey to discover their unique calling. Our Montessoribased Spark Studio nurtures curiosity for ages 4–8, while older learners engage in Socratic discussions, real-world projects, and apprenticeships—growing into resilient, self-motivated problem solvers. On Fridays, ArtTerra Enrichment brings creativity to life through hands-on art, permaculture, and nature-based learning. Mixed-age studios explore painting, sculpture, planting, music, and theater—fostering leadership and connection to beauty and nature. Now enrolling for 2025–2026. Learn more at www.ActonSantaCruz.org or email info@ actonsantacruz.org.
Chartwell School
2511 Numa Watson Road, Seaside 831.394.3468
Chartwell.org
Chartwell School, located on 60 acres in Seaside, serves students with dyslexia and associated learning differences who are currently not reaching their full potential. We do this in grades 1-12 by providing targeted and direct reading, writing, and math instruction to empower learners with the skills, strategies, tools, and social-emotional mindset they need to thrive in college and beyond.
“For us, Chartwell represents unlimited possibilities. It no longer feels like our son’s story will be about constant struggle, but about his journey to reach his full potential.” – Chartwell parent Gateway School, K-8 255 Swift Street, Santa Cruz 831.423.0341 ext 302 admissions@gatewaysc.org gatewaysc.org
Founded in 1970, Gateway is Santa Cruz County’s only accredited independent school serving students from kindergarten through 8th grade. We provide a rigorous academic curriculum balanced with a strong focus on students’ social and emotional well-being, all in service of our mission to inspire children to lead lives of purpose and compassion through scholarship and citizenship. Gateway is proud to be voted the Best Elementary and Best Middle School in Santa Cruz. If you’d like to learn more, we invite you to visit our website or schedule a tour, gatewaysc.org.
Orchard School, K-6
2288 Trout Gulch Road, Aptos 831.688.1074
orchardschoolaptos.org
Orchard School, established over 30 years ago, provides a unique, yet comprehensive K-6 education. At Orchard, we weave together the magic of an extraordinary faculty, a 14-acre campus and a down to earth philosophy that nourishes and honors the natural growth and development of children. Small class sizes, an organic garden and an animal farm create enriching “whole child” learning experiences that are hands-on and individualized. We provide Strong Core Academics, Excellent Science Curriculum, Art, Music, Physical Theater/Circus Arts, Electives, Ceramics, Archery, Swimming, Leadership, Field Trips, Drama Productions, and more.
We offer morning, afternoon, and full-day sessions. Our three beautiful acres offer room to explore, including swings, slides, trees to climb, a ninja course, zipline, bike track and a giant sandbox! Kids also enjoy our farm animals and grazing on food from our organic garden and orchards
Santa Cruz City Schools
Sam Rolens samuelrolens@sccs.net 831.419.2927 sccs.net/enroll
At Santa Cruz City Schools, students find belonging, room to explore & high expectations! In Transitional Kindergarten (kids turning 4 by Sept. 1st) & Kindergarten (kids turning 5 by Sept. 1st), we greet students with a play-centric, curiosity-driven experience. Elementary students learn in classrooms, gardens, kitchens, art studios, and in our after-school enrichment programs. Our Middle Schools foster independence and emotional development as students push themselves academically. Our High Schools provide boundless opportunities: with more AP classes, athletics, artistic and performance outlets, leadership opportunities, community connections and supports to launch students into their next adventure in college or career excellence.
Santa Cruz Montessori
Ages 18 months – 14 years
Main Campus (Primary and Elementary) 6230 Soquel Drive, Aptos Winston Campus (Young Children’s Community and Jr. High)
244 Cabrillo College Drive, Soquel 831.476.1646 scms.org
Established in 1964, Santa Cruz Montessori is a non-profit school serving children 18 months to 14
years. Our beautiful classrooms and outdoor environments engage the children’s senses as they learn. Based on a deep understanding of child through adolescent development, our programs meet the interests and needs of our students, engaging and challenging them to do their best. We are a supportive community of learners and offer an exciting Montessori curriculum including humanities, math, sciences and arts. Our mission: as a Montessori learning community, we inspire life-long learning and a more peaceful world by nurturing the natural.
Santa Cruz Waldorf School, PreK-8 2190 Empire Grade, Santa Cruz 831.425.0519 santacruzwaldorf.org enrollment@santacruzwaldorf.org
Santa Cruz Waldorf School nurtures
the whole human being in every individual, cultivating the capacity of head, heart, and hands. We offer a rich and balanced curriculum in which intellectual and artistic development are both vital and fully integrated. Specialty teachers work alongside class teachers to provide students with diverse experiences in language, movement, music, arts, games, and gardening. Our magical, rural campus is nestled in the redwoods above USCS. Our community is warm and joyful. We are committed to protecting childhood, supporting each individual, respecting nature and all life. Santa Cruz Waldorf School cultivates self-directed, empathetic, and free-thinking individuals with the courage and capacities to serve an ever-evolving humanity.
Since 1989, Tara Redwood School has piloted its signature pedagogy, Creating Compassionate Cultures (CCC), which teaches students to make a positive difference in the world by educating both the heart and the mind. Our curriculum integrates Tara’s CCC approach with Montessori methodology. We place a strong emphasis on global studies, sciences, environmental studies, creative arts, social-emotional learning, mindfulness, and compassion in action. Classes are multi-age with a low student-to-teacher ratio, serving children from Preschool (ages 2–4) through Elementary (ages 4–11). Learning takes place both indoors and outdoors across 108 acres of forest, meadows, and creeks.
Universal PreKindergarten, The Santa Cruz County Office of Education 831.466.5820
childcare.santacruzcoe.org.
Starting in the 2025–26 school year, every family with young children in Santa Cruz County will have access to high-quality early learning through California’s Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) initiative. UPK
programs offer free and low-cost preschool for kids ages 2 to 5, along with Transitional Kindergarten for children turning 4 by Sept. 1. These opportunities are open to all families, regardless of income or immigration status. The Santa Cruz County Office of Education whole-heartedly supports this effort to give every child a strong start.
Directed by Carlin Truong, the Cabrillo Youth Chorus offers a comprehensive vocal music program for children 8-18, providing instruction in musicianship and theory along with exciting performance opportunities. CYC offers four levels of instruction from beginning to advanced. CYC students sing with the Santa Cruz Symphony and other performing groups, and have performed in Carnegie Hall! Rehearsals take place weekly at Cabrillo College from 4-5:30pm; the beginning class meets on Tuesdays, and the intermediate/advanced class on Wednesdays. More information is available online at CabrilloYouthChorus.org, or you can email cyc.staffers@gmail.co
Central Coast Language and Learning Center 8030 Soquel Avenue Unit 100, Santa Cruz 831.645.7900
CoastalLearning.org
CCLLC is a private practice speech language pathology clinic serving people of all ages. Our team of speech pathologists and pediatric feeding therapists use researchbased methods to tailor therapy toward each unique person. We utilize a family-centered approach that creates partnerships between our speech therapists and family members to bridge the gap between language and learning. Through guided training and instruction from our therapists, parents learn strategies to also engage and help their child at home. We offer services in English and Spanish, both in-person and virtually. We accept most health insurance and are open for after-school hours until 6 pm, Monday-Friday. For more information, visit coastallearning.com.
“Having four special needs children with various speech issues, CCLLC has proven to be an excellent speech resource for all my children in meeting each of their own unique needs.”
Transformative dance training that empowers aspiring professional dancers. Our thoughtfully designed curriculum blends technical excellence with a holistic approach, that fosters not only strong, capable dancers but confident, creative individuals. We pride ourselves on creating a safe place
to reach excellence by: Putting positivity first, Teaching beyond anti-bullying and onto healthy relationships, Focusing on building and nurturing mental health, Body love, not just body positivity, Empowering dancers to be the drivers of their own growth. Ballet~Lyrical~Jazz~Turns and Leaps~Dance Acro~Stretch~Storybook DanceLearn more at CrescendoDance.com
Drawn2Art Studios
19C Rancho Del Mar Shopping Center, Aptos 831.661.5652
drawn2artclasses.com Aptos@Drawn2ArtStudios.com
Drawn2Art offers a “Free Introductory Art Class,” ages 4 years- Teens/Adults. The trial Class is a nice introduction into the program and the student takes home a finished picture. The program is designed to the student’s level of ability, each student works independently at their own pace/artistic level. The techniques are based in a traditional/classical approach, using different mediums/subject matter. Classes are available throughout the week and are broken up into different age groups. Seasonal Camps are offered throughout the school year. Call us at: (831) 661-5652 or email us: aptos@drawn2artstudios.com. SignUp Now and Join Us for educational fun! International Academy of Dance IADance.com | NutcrackerSantaCruz.com info@IADance.com 831.466.0458
International Academy of Dance, home of Santa Cruz City Ballet, provides world class instruction in Classical Ballet, Tap, Contemporary, Lyrical, and Jazz. The studio is an encouraging and supportive community from ages two to eighty-two. It is our mission to inspire students of all ages to develop a lifelong love of dance. Through choreography, balance, agility, strength and flexibility, we work with each dancer to hone artistry, technique, focus and musicality. We aspire to bring joy and generate growth in every class. We can’t wait to see you in the studio! Nutcracker Auditions Aug. 23 at International Academy of Dance: Calling all performers, dreamers, and stars of all ages. Come audition for Nutcracker: Experience the Magic! - at Cabrillo’s Crocker Theater Dec. 20-21. More info at NutcrackerSantaCruz.com.
Jim Booth Swim School
Watsonville indoor pool and coming soon to Toadal fitness
831.722.3500
JimBoothSwimSchool.com
Be a water wonder! From our Little Otters swim class for parents and their babies to Aquaphobics, our adult beginner class, the whole family splashes together at Jim Booth Swim School. Little Otters is a gentle introduction to our 94-degree pools that will make you confident that you are guiding your infant to a happy water experience. Our group lessons emphasize quality swimming in an exciting class taught by our caring,
well-qualified teachers. Soon offering a non-competitive swim team to help develop strength, endurance & technique. The whole family can swim at Jim Booth Swim School!
Junebug’s Gym
3910 Portola Drive, Suite 2, Santa Cruz 831.464.BUGS (2847) junebugsgym.com
JuneBug’s Gym is a place where your child can experience a fun-filled adventure in movement. We have a caring, respectful, and supportive staff that encourages every child in their growth of large motor skills and gymnastics along with social, emotional and cognitive development. Our goals for our students are to help them feel control and empowerment in their bodies, to build self-esteem through success, and learn FUNdamental motor skills. Besides classes for ages crawling-8 yrs old, we also offer birthday parties, Parents Night Out, Open Gyms and camps. Come join the Fun.
The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History info@santacruzmah.org 831.429.1964
705 Front St, Santa Cruz
The Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (the MAH) wants you to start your school year off right. We offer individual and group tours, curriculum guides, and even have cool art supplies, notebooks, and other swag in our newly opened Museum Shop. This year we’ll be offering three distinct summer camps and a variety of new education programs for both youth and adults. Plus, check out our new educational materials for the History of Surfing, London Nelson, and more. The museum offers student and educator discounts. Stop in Thursday-Monday! MusicalMe, Inc. offering Music Together™
All over Santa Clara & Santa Cruz Counties 831.332.9002 Musicalme.com
Give Your Child the Gift of Music. Join Music Together, the gold standard in early childhood music enrichment (Birth to 5 years). Our playful, award-winning classes nurture brain development, language, and social skills while sparking your child’s inner music-maker. Discover why music profoundly shapes young minds and how to make it part of daily life. Sing, dance, and play together, creating joyful memories that last a lifetime.
Santa Cruz Gymnastics Center, Inc. 2750 B Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz 831.462.0655 scgym.com
At Santa Cruz Gymnastics Center our mission is to build a community of people that all support each other’s growth, learning, safety and development through our love of gymnastics
and fun. From preschool to competitive programs, kids will learn skills such as rolls, handstands, and cartwheels. We also focus on age-appropriate school readiness skills such as waiting in line, sharing, taking turns, and color/number/shape recognition. We know that every child can benefit from gymnastics, physically, emotionally and cognitively so we offer something for everyone. Check out our website for more information and class registration!
We are seeing NEW PATIENTS! Dr. Jackson provides comprehensive dentistry in a caring environment for children of all ages. We are preventive-dentistry oriented and very thorough in our evaluations and consultations. Our office provides individualized care for your child’s specific needs. We have a 24-hour emergency service available for all of our patients.
Dientes Community Dental Care
1830 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz 1500 Capitola Road, Santa Cruz 100 Pioneer Street, Suite D, Santa Cruz
1430 Freedom Blvd., Suite C, Watsonville dientes.org
Serving Santa Cruz County for over 30 years, Dientes is a trusted non-profit dental provider offering full-service care for children, adults, and seniors. Our expert team includes pediatric dentists who specialize in caring for kids, and we’re proud to provide compassionate, bilingual care – Se habla Español! Our focus is on delivering highquality, dental care, including exams, x-rays, fillings, sealants and root canals. We accept Medi-Cal and we have affordable sliding scale fees for uninsured patients. Dientes: providing dignity through dentistry.
First 5 Santa Cruz County
831.465.2217
First5scc.org
First 5 Santa Cruz County promotes the healthy development of children from birth to age 5. Parents and caregivers of newborns can contact First 5 to receive a free “Kit for New Parents” with parenting videos, children’s books, information on caring for babies and local resources. First 5 also offers parenting support through the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, a world-renowned program that strengthens families by building positive relationships. To find Triple P classes or quick tips, visit triplep.first5scc. org or facebook.com/triplepscc
Better Beginnings Start NOW
& HEALTH FAIR
Consider Volunteering in the Classroom
BY STEVE MILLER
I had a great experience this past year, which I would like to share—especially with grandparents. I volunteered in my 1st grade granddaughter’s classroom, and it was a fun and fulfilling experience in many ways.
This experience gave me the opportunity to get to know my granddaughter’s peer group; it felt great to help advance the educational process for these kids; and I learned a lot about cognitive development on a first hand level.
My context is as an older guy (70+) with basic college level literacy skills, having the experience of seeing one generation of kids grow up, and enjoying a nice relationship with my granddaughter.
The teacher, while not dependent on volunteers, certainly appreciated the support in the classroom and put out a monthly sign-up sheet. It was most successful for the teacher, the kids and me to have a consistent volunteer slot (mine was Thursday morning, 8:45-10:00).
Getting to know the children in my grandchild’s peer group was a real collateral benefit. Conversations with my granddaughter were much easier and richer talking about so-and–so did this or that, when I could picture the kids and their various personalities (and the teacher’s, as well).
You may have a bit of trepidation “how will the kids relate to me?” The good news is you are not a substitute teacher. You are not coming in as an authority figure (hopefully). Classroom volunteers are usually appreciated; they are generally somebody’s mom. Even better, they are
seen as somebody’s grandparent— with a reserve of grandparent goodwill. Just about every kid has a loving grandparent (or wishes they did) whether distant or nearby. It warmed my heart each week to be greeted with “Grandpa Steve is here”. Being in the classroom, you see kids— including your own—in their natural state (for better or worse). You get to know the range of the kids’ behavioral and academic abilities, and see what really goes on in the classroom— even the playground. You will develop a better understanding of your own child/grandchild’s accomplishments and needs. From heartbreaking to up-lifting, you will gain insight to other kids’ and families’ lives.
Your classroom teacher will have some assignments for you ranging from oneon-one listening to a struggling reader, to playing literacy games with a group, to doing group writing exercises. The teacher will generally find an activity that you feel comfortable with.
A couple of tips that worked well for me: Be flexible in making the games/exercises work—see the strengths and weaknesses of the individuals and figure out how to engage each kid in your short time.
Don’t try to establish yourself as a disciplinarian (the kids know they can out-wait your hour in the classroom). You will be more successful if you are seen as a big buddy; but as an adult expect respect and attention. The teacher will generally be happy to (briefly) discuss a style of working with a particular student.
Don’t take on the whole classroom; working with individuals and small groups will be the best experience.
I found a great feeling of accomplishment as the year progressed, seeing skills develop and relationships deepen, towards myself and among the kids in general. And of course I developed a renewed respect and appreciation for classroom teachers.
In addition to regular classroom time, some other more modest volunteer engagements:
Field Trips—always an adventure—a few outings a year. The class generally needs drivers. I always tried to have a fun car, playing the radio loud and letting the kids have a free communication zone.
Playground duty—the school can always use another grown-up on the playground, organizing an activity or being an available ear for a child who wants to talk.
Classroom organizing--if you are not comfortable doing lessons with kids, there is endless “back-end” work: organizing files, lesson prep, etc. that free hours of the teacher’s time.
I hope this article may have gotten you excited about volunteering; but, you need to know there is a bit of bureaucracy to being able to volunteer in the schools. Schools/school districts take volunteering very seriously and legalistically (yes, you will need to be finger-printed). Check with your school’s website for volunteer procedures.
My advice: jump-in and do it. It will be a highlight of your year, and great bonding experience with your child or grandchild. There is a short time when you can share this experience with your loved one—take advantage of it.
MICHELLE LEWIS
Abby Age 8
Amelia Age 6
Ayden Age 8
Sophia Age 11
Ayla Age 9
Elsa Age 8
Kassidy Age 9
Kieran Age 7
Luna Age 9
Lyla Age 5
McKenna Age 7
Naya Age 6
Sophia Age 11
James Age 7 and Theodore Age 6
Shira Age 5 and Jireh Age 3
WEDNESDAYS
Summer Twilight Concerts 6-9pm
Bring chairs, jackets, a picnic supper, and the family to enjoy free live music and the sunset! Concerts continue through Aug. 27. and take place at the Esplanade bandstand. Visit local restaurants and pick up dinner to go and enjoy a picnic at the beach. Suggested to bring low back chairs or picnic blanket for seating. cityofcapitola. org/acc/page/twilight-concert-2025
FRI 1
First Fridays Santa Cruz 5-8pm On the first Friday evening of every month, Santa Cruz galleries, shops, and cultural venues open their doors to showcase the works of Santa Cruz County artists. With a block party-like vibe, the multi-venue event provides an opportunity to discover local creative talent in a fun and festive setting. firstfridaysantacruz.com/event
First Friday Boulder Creek 5-8pm
Enjoy a free monthly mountain street fair in the name of creation and community. There will be local art, music and food lining the sidewalks of downtown Boulder Creek. firstfridaybouldercreek.org
Museum of Natural History 120th Anniversary 5–8pm free – Party with the past at this birthday celebration with music, crafts, games, storytime with author Taylor Lahey, and nature fun for the whole family. Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. santacruzmuseum.org/ event/the-museums-120th-birthday-party/
FRIDAYS 1, 8
Movie on the Beach 9pm-10:45pm
Every Friday night on the beach in front of the Colonnade, bring your family and your blanket or low-back chair to experience the ultimate movie night. Seating is first come, first served and each movie will have a 15-minute intermission. Through Aug. 8. beachboardwalk.com/movies/
FRI-SUN 1-3
Watsonville Strawberry Festival 11am–8pm free – Celebrate all things strawberry with food, crafts, live music, a kids’ fun zone, and community art walls in historic downtown. Sunday hours are 11am–7pm. Downtown Watsonville. https:// www.watsonville.gov/1117/WatsonvilleStrawberry-Festival
SAT 2
Arboretum Tour 11am-12:30pm The first Saturday of each month, the Arboretum offers a docent or staff-led tour of the Arboretum. Sometimes you will see New Zealand, South Africa, California, or Australia. Sometimes you might see combinations of several gardens, the developing World Conifer Collection, or Rare Fruit Garden. arboretum.ucsc.edu/ index.html
SUN 3
Family Concert: Sleepover at the Museum Enjoy a musical adventure the whole family will love! Dive into Karen LeFrak’s Sleepover at the Museum, a playful symphonic scavenger hunt, and Frank Duarte’s Xhnisa. Get up close with the orchestra and explore the magic of music—
This institution is an equal opportunity provider
fun, interactive, and totally FREE (ticket required). cabrillomusic.org/2025-season/ free-family-concert
Where’s Waldo Finale Party 2-3:30pm
Head back to the Bookshop for a Waldo costume contest, fun games and activities, and more. There will even be a visit from Waldo himself bookshopsantacruz.com/ waldo-party-2025
WED 6
F u n A c t i v i t i e s M u s i c C o m m u n i t y Resources
Free Music in the Park 5-7pm Attendees can lay down a blanket on a flat area and stay a while and enjoy the music. Bands can be heard down at the river too. Perfect for those hot days to be able to cool off in the river and jive to live music! S.C Eatery food truck will be on site. Through July 30. bcrpd.org/events
Crescendo Dance Academy Grand Opening 9am–3pm free – Celebrate the new Capitola dance studio with complimentary dance classes (storybook, lyrical, acro), t-shirt decorating, and a family dance party. Crescendo Dance Academy. crescendodance.com
SAT 9
Second Saturday on the Farm 11am3pm The Agricultural History Project’s 2nd Saturday events are like taking a step back in time. Grab your cowboy hat and put on your boots and come and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon on the farm! In addition to Summer Fun special activities, you’ll be able to milk a “cow”, drive-a-tractor, and enjoy crafts, hayrides, puppet show, antique engines and museum exhibits. Bring your
MINDY ABRAHAM
THU 7
18th Annual Community Bridges WIC Breastfeeding Walk & Health Fair 1–4pm free –Celebrate breastfeeding and family wellness with Community Bridges WIC! This free event features fun activities, music, healthy snacks, community resources, raffle prizes, free T-shirts, and a breastmilk donation site. A great afternoon for families to gather, learn, and connect. Laurel Park. communitybridges.org
lunch and enjoy a picnic. aghistoryproject. org/2nd-saturday-on-the-farm
Youth Ensemble Concert Hear the future of new music in this free chamber concert of original works programmed, produced, performed, and presented by the adventurous 16-24-year-old Youth Ensemble. cabrillomusic.org/student-staff-program.
Swing Dancing 2-5:30pm You will find music, friends, and food while you improve your dancing digs. All levels, and various styles plus a social dance with great ambiance are welcome! Go Join the fun on the Second Saturday evening of each month at the Santa Cruz Wharf stage. cityofsantacruz.com/
H e a l t h y S n a c k s F r e e T - s h i r t B r e a s t m i l k d o n a t i o n s i t e R a f f l e P r i z e s 3 0 1 C e
18TH COMM BRIDG BREA WALK & HEA
SUN 10
Antiques Faire 8am-6pm The Santa Cruz Antique Faire is on the 2nd Sunday of every month. Vendors offer an eclectic blend of antiques and unique items, vintage clothing, collectibles and more. Visit the Antique Faire on Lincoln Street between Pacific and Cedar.
Artisan Faire noon-4pm Head to Abbott Square every second Sunday of the month for free live music while you browse handmade jewelry, soap, clothing, and much more! There is always something at these events that has your name on it! abbottsquaremarket.com/events
Tri Santa Cruz The race has a sprint and international (Olympic) distance triathlon, with relays and aquabike categories for both races. There is a special, non-com-
L A U R E L P A R K
GUiSC will attempt to update the calendar listings as needed; however, it is the responsibility of the organization listed to provide updated information. GUiSC assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Readers are encouraged to check the accuracy of the information provided. Events that are free or cost less than $10 can be submitted for inclusion in the calendar. GUiSC does not guarantee that a submitted event will automatically be included. Preference is given for events of interest to children and/or parents. Submit entries at growingupsc.com/events/ community/add. Calendar entries must be received by the 15th of the month prior to the month of the event. To find out more about promoting your event further or including a paid event, email advertising@growingupsc.com.
petitive Family & Friends wave for people who are new to triathlon or just want to have a fun day. The sheltered swim and flat bike and run course make this a perfect place for a first race. trisantacruz.com
TUES 12, 26
Concert Series 6-8pm Every Second Tuesday and fourth of the month, head to the Wharf for live music and games . The Joint Chiefs and Sweet Voodoo will perform this month Get a stamp validation from any business on the Wharf on Tuesdays and receive two hours of free.
FRI 15
West Cliff Drive Celebration 5-8pm
Come celebrate as West Cliff Drive is now restored. here will be live music, food trucks, activities for all ages, and of course, the beautiful views of steamer lane at lighthouse point. cityofsantacruz.com
SAT 16
Castro Adobe Open House 10:303:30pm Learn about the contributions of the Indigenous people as skilled laborers for the Castros on Rancho San Andre. santacruzstateparks.as.me/ CastroAdobeOpenHouse
SAT-SUN 16-17
Scotts Valley Art, Wine & Beer Festival 10am–6pm Sat, 10am–5pm Sun free – A two-day festival showcasing over 100 artists, craft beers, wines, live music, kids’ zone, food trucks, and a Sunday dogthemed afternoon. Skypark, Scotts Valley.
SUN 17
Downtown Makers Market 10am-4pm
Visit the Downtown Santa Cruz Makers Market featuring 40+ local makers & artists every third Sunday of the month on the 1100 block of Pacific Ave. between Cathcart and Lincoln streets. scmmakersmarket.com
MON 18
Remembrance and Renewal 10am1pm This is the 5th Anniversary of the fire that hit Big Basin. There will be stories, a guided walk, art, and displays about the future of California’s oldest state park.
SAT 23
Academy of Dance 5-7pm – free Calling all performers, dreamers, and stars of all ages! Audition for Nutcracker: Experience the Magic!—a magical production coming to Cabrillo’s Crocker Theater this December 20 & 21. International Academy of Dance, Santa Cruz. nutcrackersantacruz.com
SUN 24
Music at Skypark 2:30–6pm free –Scotts Valley’s beloved summer concert returns with Fishhook at 2:30 and Extra Large at 3:30. Food vendors and fun for all ages. Skypark, Scotts Valley. svkiwanis.org/ music-at-skypark/
Baby Photo Contest
Do you have the cutest baby in Santa Cruz County? If so, submit your picture online at growingupsc.com by Aug. 15. Then vote for your favorites by Sept. 15. Results will be published in the October issue.
TUES 26
Author Talk and Book Signing J7-9
Join Zen teacher Rev. Shinshu Roberts for a talk and book signing of her new work, “Meeting the Myriad Things: A Practitioner’s Guide to the Zen Buddhist Teaching of the Genjokoan.” oceangatezen.org
YESENIA
Teaching Children to Cope With Anxiety
Life moves fast. Between work deadlines, school drop-offs, lunchboxes, and the constant ping of notifications, sometimes it doesn’t take much for me to feel like I’m barely holding it all together. As a kid, I remember lying awake in bed replaying the day in my mind wondering if I missed something or said something wrong. The fear of messing up had a way of swallowing everything else. Now, as an adult, I’ve learned how to manage it, but still find myself slipping into that anxious place, as so many of us do. And how can we not, with the pace life moves? When this happens to me, it’s a clear sign that my stress and anxiety have taken over. It’s time to press the reset button. This monthly column provides tips for anyone who is helping raise children, based on the world-renowned Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, available to families in Santa Cruz County. If you have a question or idea for a future column, email me at triplep@first5scc.org.
Dear Yesenia, My 11-year-old daughter is a kind, responsible kid who tries really hard in school and rarely has any major behavior issues. But lately, I’ve become worried about how anxious she is. She worries about everything,
forgetting homework, being late, disappointing someone, or doing something wrong. She often gets so upset that she can’t think straight. I tell her everything will be fine, but that seems to make her more upset. I’m worried this will get worse as she gets older and faces more pressure. What should I do? ~ Valerie
Dear Valerie, You’re on the right track by taking your daughter’s emotions seriously. Anxiety is a natural reaction to anything the brain sees as a “threat,” including stress at home, school, with friends or in the community. Signs of anxiety can include a faster heartbeat and breathing, sweaty palms, tense muscles, light-headedness or an upset stomach. These physical reactions can make us more alert and prepared to do our best in situations like tests or sports. However, they can also be frightening for some children, especially if they experience frequent or intense anxiety. It can lead children to believe that something is wrong with them or something bad will happen. If left alone, these thoughts and feelings can become overwhelming and interfere with daily life. Here are some tips to help your family: Acknowledge and empathize with
your child’s feelings. When children become upset, their “emotional brains” take over, making it hard for them to see the situation and options clearly. Many parents try to reassure their children that everything will be fine, solve the problem or tell them the situation is not really a big problem. While the parents might be right, children are more likely to believe these words once their fears have been acknowledged as real to them. A simple statement such as, “I can see you’re really worried,” or, “I’ve felt that way before,” can have a calming effect.
Ask questions and listen. Try to find out whether something happened recently that caused her to become anxious or nervous. Then ask a few questions to encourage her to express her thoughts and feelings. Listen and continue to acknowledge her feelings, even if you don’t understand or agree with how she views the situation.
Guide your child through problemsolving steps. Help her define the problem or concern, then brainstorm possible ways to handle it. Encourage her to come up with ideas first before offering suggestions. Talk about the pros and cons of each idea, then help her decide which one to try. Have her practice what she’ll say or do to build
her confidence in her ability to handle the situation. After she tries her solution, talk about how it worked and what she would do the next time something similar happens. Over time, this process will help your daughter learn ways to handle stress and anxiety before it becomes overwhelming. Stay calm and patient. Helping children deal with anxiety can add more stress to a family. Use coping strategies yourself, like taking deep breaths, saying positive affirmations, or taking a break. It will help you stay calm and patient, while also modeling healthy coping strategies.
FINAL THOUGHTS: Stress and anxiety are unavoidable parts of everyday life, but they don’t have to take over our lives. Learning to cope with anxiety in childhood is an important life skill that can be developed with time and practice.
Yesenia Gomez-Carrillo is the mother of a 3-year-old daughter and the Triple P Program Manager for First 5 Santa Cruz County. Scientifically proven, Triple P is made available locally by First 5, the Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency, and the Santa Cruz County Human Services Department. To find a Triple P parenting class or practitioner, visit triplep.first5scc.org, facebook.com/ triplepscc, or contact First 5 Santa Cruz County at 465-2217 or triplep@first5scc.org.
Money Management for Kids
BY COLLEEN MURPHY
Money management, much like parenting, is one of those critical life skills that is not formally taught. Parents flounder trying to teach their kids about money when they themselves lack financial savvy. Many adults often lack knowledge on how to create and live within a budget, frequently overspend, or penny-pinch to an unhealthy level. Even discussing money issues is uncomfortable.
Positive Discipline not only promotes tools that build healthy parent-teacherchild relationships, but it also teaches life skills so children enter the world prepared. Here’s some help in preparing your children to skillfully manage their money. .
AVOID USING CHORES AS A MONEY TEACHING TOOL
In the April 2025 issue of Growing Up in Santa Cruz, I wrote an article focused on chores, recommending that kids not be paid to complete household tasks. As a refresher, here’s why money in exchange for chores is problematic. Children need to be prepared for the adult world. In the adult world, adults are not paid to wash dishes or take out the trash.
PAYING CHILDREN MONEY TO DO CHORES CAN CAUSE THESE ISSUES:
Sets up the expectation that contributing to the running of a household means extrinsic rewards (money), instead of real-life intrinsic rewards of feelings of contribution, capability, and skill at organization
Sets up the children to think they have the option of saying, “No, thanks. I don’t need the money, so I won’t be doing my chores this week.”
Can create entitled children upon discovering that chores need to be done, regardless of payment. (“What? I have to do the trash for free?”)
However, is payment for extra chores ok?... Yes! By all means, put your kids to work washing your car or running errands for you.
USE ALLOWANCE AS A MONEY TEACHING TOOL
To manage money, children need to have money to manage. Instead of tying it to payment for tasks, embrace the idea of giving children money freely to manage their own spending. Rather than parents paying for a toy, ice cream, movies, clothes, or any number of things parents will be paying for anyway, put the money in their children’s pocket to spend or save at their will.
Let’s break this down.
Age and Amount
This is up to each family to decide when and how much children will receive for an allowance, depending on their preferences and financial situation. It would be reasonable to give a 5-year-old $1
or $2 a week, a 9-year-old $10-$20 a month, or a 13-year-old $30 a month, etc. As their age goes up, the more items the children/ teens are financially responsible for, therefore, the more money they will need.
How It Works
You will be asked the famous question again and again, “Can you buy me this?” But instead of having to decide if you’re going to buy it or not, you are empowered to say, “You have your own money to spend. Do you have enough?” This takes the decision out of your hands and into theirs. A common response to realizing they will need to use their own money when begging for a toy or such is, “Oh, never mind.” (Guess they didn’t want it badly enough!)
For young children, parents will closely advise and guide them. “Here’s your allowance. I know you want to buy ice cream at school on Friday, so how much do you need to save so you’ll have it to spend? Let’s put the amount in this pouch to save for Friday.”
“We’ll be traveling in two weeks. Do you want to have some spending money for snacks or a souvenir? Let’s save that in your wallet to bring on the trip.”
“I know you like that toy your friend has. Let’s see how much it costs, and you can save up for it each week until you have enough.”
Older children can use the money for social activities such as school dances or sporting events, laser tag, or buying a slice of pizza with friends. The money given could cover school lunches for the month, or their interests such as books, art supplies, collecting cards, and sports equipment. It can pay for special items of clothing they desire.
Parents will still advise and guide. “This is enough for 5 hot lunches throughout the month. You can spend it all in one week or portion it out.”
“You can buy that expensive sweatshirt, but remember, it will take all of your allowance for the month. It’s your choice if you’re okay with that.”
Teens, launching into independence soon, can be handed more responsibility to manage money
challenges. They can be given a clothing allowance for the school year to be spent as they see fit. Don’t be surprised if one teen stretches the money through thrift shopping and another teen spends it all on one or two high-quality, prized pieces of clothing, as my two kids did. You may require some of their allowance to cover gas expenses for the family car, or to contribute to car insurance or phone plan payments. Or it could be expected that they find parttime jobs to contribute to these expenses if they want to drive or have a phone.
PARENTAL CONTROL IS PART OF THE EQUATION
A key aspect is that parents will be involved in decisions about what is purchased to some extent. Just because kids have money does not mean they can buy out the candy store or purchase adult-rated video games. Your family values can set the boundaries for what can and can not be purchased. However, keep in mind that as your child ages, your ability to keep a tight hold on their spending choices becomes less and less.
OPPORTUNITY FOR PRICELESS LIFE LESSON
In Positive Discipline classes, we say,
“Don’t get in the way of Life’s lessons.” Life experiences offer the BEST lessons. Don’t rescue or save your kids from a little pain and suffering, and also let them experience the triumph of meeting financial goals on their own.
Lessons offered are:
Being broke: let them experience running out of money until the next allowance installment. Better to be broke now than when they are adults.
Creating money-making ideas: if you stick with the allowance schedule, this can motivate kids to think of extra ways to earn money if they are broke or want more than the allowance given.
Delayed gratification: saving money for a goal and sticking with the long-term plan is a skill that makes the difference between future failures or successes.
Contributing to causes they believe in: part of the allowance agreement can be to save 10% of it to contribute to causes or people they choose to support.
For further guidance, seek out the many books available, such as Capitate Your Kids and Financial Literacy for Kids. Shira Coleman Hagar is a Positive Discipline parent educator and PD in the classroom facilitator. She is the mother of two teen boys, 18 and 15 and the wife of high school English teacher Jeffry Hagar. She is also a swing dance teacher and owner of DesigningWell. She has been gratefully using PD in her own relationships and work for the last 16 years.
Colleen Murphy is a credentialed adult ed teacher, a Certified Positive Discipline Trainer at Positive Discipline Community Resources (www.pdcrcc. org), a preschool teacher at Soquel Parent Education Nursery School, a parent coach (fromtheheadtotheheart. com), and in healthy relationships with her two grown kids. Catch her interviews on Lost or Found - Apple Podcasts with Dr. Michelle Choi.
AP Classes Equip Teens With Real-Life Skills
BY SUSAN TATSUI-D’ARCY
For decades, high school students have taken classes to prepare for college — algebra, biology, literature, U.S. history — but far too often, they graduate without knowing how to create a budget, avoid identity theft, or understand how a business works.
That’s finally changing.
The College Board just announced two new Advanced Placement (AP) courses that are relevant to students’ futures: AP Business Principles with Personal Finance and AP Cybersecurity. Both are designed to give students practical skills and to be prepared for life.
“Students need more than test prep — they need life prep.”
FINANCIAL LITERACY: A MUST FOR EVERY TEEN
AP Business with Personal Finance will cover key topics like entrepreneurship, investment basics, economic systems, and — most importantly — how to manage money.
Right now, fewer than half of American high school students are required to take a financial literacy course before graduating. That means most teens enter adulthood without understanding how credit works, how
to save for emergencies, or how to avoid falling into debt.
This AP course will give students the tools to take control of their financial lives early — before the mistakes begin piling up. They’ll learn about loans, taxes, savings, and how to navigate the real-world financial systems they’ll encounter the moment they turn 18.
CYBERSECURITY: ESSENTIAL FOR EVERYONE
The second new course, AP Cybersecurity, covers how to protect sensitive information and recognize threats like phishing scams, malware, and identity theft. Whether students go into tech, business, healthcare, education, or the arts, they’ll all need to understand how to protect themselves from cyber threats.
This class will teach students how cybersecurity works and why it matters — not just at the personal level, but globally. In an era of increasing digital risk, cybersecurity has become a fundamental part of being an informed, responsible citizen.
IT’S ABOUT CAREER AND COLLEGE
While most AP courses are seen as stepping stones to college, these two also build career-readiness.
AP Business helps students develop leadership, collaboration, problemsolving, and communication skills — qualities every employer looks for. Cybersecurity fosters analytical thinking, precision, and digital fluency.
Together, these courses do more than boost a GPA. They provide practical, handson experience with real-world challenges and prepare students for fields that are growing fast and in need of skilled workers.
EQUAL ACCESS TO CRITICAL KNOWLEDGE
What’s especially exciting is the potential for equity.
Financial literacy and cybersecurity aren’t taught at home for everyone — and yet they’re essential for everyone. These new AP courses ensure that all students, regardless of background or
zip code, can build the knowledge and confidence to make smart decisions in their adult lives.
This kind of curriculum levels the playing field and opens doors to careers many students might never have considered.
WHAT SCHOOLS NEED TO DO NEXT
It’s now up to schools to offer these courses and support students who enroll in them. That means training teachers, making space in student schedules, and encouraging all types of learners to give these classes a try — not just the “AP kids.”
Parents can help by asking their schools to offer these classes and helping their teens see the long-term value of understanding money and technology.
College prep is still important, but preparing students for life is even more so.
Susan Tatsui-D’Arcy is the founder of Merit Academy (one-on-one classes and Merit Educational Consultants (college and educational advisory). She has written books on projects, free child care, education, and parenting. Susan hosts TEDxMeritAcademy for students to present their innovative projects and solutions. In 2019, she was California Mother of the Year.
From Tooth Fairy to Taxes
Debunking Money Myths for Kids and Teens
Not everything kids and teens believe about money is true—but that’s where the fun (and teaching) begins.
“IF WE RUN OUT OF MONEY, CAN’T WE JUST GO TO THE ATM?”
Sound familiar?
Kids pick up all kinds of ideas about money—some adorable, some hilariously offbase, and some that could stick around a little too long if we’re not careful.
Whether it’s cartoons, overheard conversations, or watching you swipe a card like magic, children and teens are constantly forming money beliefs. As parents and caregivers, it’s our job to gently unpack the myths and replace them with age-appropriate, empowering truths.
Here are a few of the most common money misconceptions, plus tips for turning them into teachable moments.
MYTH #1: “ATMS GIVE YOU FREE MONEY!”
The Truth: Nope! ATMs only give you the money you already earned and deposited. Think of it like a snack machine—but the snacks are your dollars, and you can’t get them unless you’ve stocked it first.
Try This: Next time you visit an ATM or mobile banking app, walk your child through how deposits show up, and how withdrawals lower the balance. Let them watch you check your balance first and explain what it means.
MYTH #2: “IF YOU HAVE A CARD, YOU CAN BUY WHATEVER YOU WANT.”
The Truth: Cards look like magic wands, but they’re just tools. Debit cards draw from money you already have. Credit cards borrow money—money that has to be paid back (often with interest!).
Try This: Start with a prepaid card or youth account with a debit card and help them track spending. Show how the balance goes down with each swipe—and why budgeting matters even in a cashless world.
MYTH #3: “ADULTS DON’T HAVE TO SAVE— THEY ALREADY HAVE MONEY.”
The Truth: Most adults are still saving— for college, emergencies, car repairs, even retirement. Saving doesn’t stop just because you grow up—it becomes even more important. Try This: Create a “family goals board” where both kids and adults post what they’re saving for.
It shows them that everyone is in the habit of planning and waiting for things that matter.
MYTH #4: “TAXES ARE JUST THE GOVERNMENT BEING MEAN.”
The Truth: Taxes fund the things we all use—roads, schools, parks, fire departments, and more. It’s a shared responsibility, not a punishment.
Try This: Next time you drive over a new bridge or check out books at the library, connect it to taxes. Help them see taxes as part of a system that benefits the whole community. This could lead to a bonus conversation on civics and how communities decide how taxes are spent.
MYTH #5: “IF I WANT SOMETHING, I JUST ASK FOR IT.”
The Truth: Wants vs. needs is a lifelong lesson. Helping kids learn to differentiate between the two builds patience, gratitude, and decision-making skills.
Try This: Start a “wishlist window.” When they want something, write it down and wait 7 days before buying. If they still want it, talk through cost, value, and tradeoffs together.
Bay Federal Credit Union proudly serves families in Santa Cruz County and along the Central Coast, offering savings and checking solutions that grow with your child. With just five dollars, you can open an account with no monthly fees and
easy-to-use mobile banking, making it simple to teach financial wellness habits. Visit a local branch today to learn more about how we can help set your child on a path to a bright financial future.
At Bay Federal we’re more than just a financial institution—we’re your partner in achieving financial wellness. Together, we can make this back-to-school season a seamless and affordable experience for every member. Join us in embracing smart shopping practices and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with financial preparedness. For more financial tips and resources, visit www.bayfed.com.
Special Needs, Special Abilities
BY TOVAH PETRA KOLODINSKI
As the back-to-school season ramps up, many parents and caregivers feel the swirl of emotions that come with re-entry: excitement, nervousness, and a deep desire for our children to feel safe, seen, and successful in their own way.
For those raising neurodivergent children—kids whose brains process the world differently—this season often requires a slower rhythm and a more attuned lens. Rather than pushing our children to conform to the school system’s pace, what if we walked alongside them, prioritizing body-based trust and nervous system safety as the foundation for learning and growth?
HONORING THE PACE OF THE CHILD
Neurodivergent kids—whether autistic, ADHD, sensory sensitive, anxious, or otherwise wired differently—often live in a world that moves too fast. The return to school can feel jarring, especially after a summer of freedom and self-directed rhythm. This is where we as caregivers can slow down and attune. Attunement means listening with our whole selves—sensing their nonverbal cues, feeling into their emotional world, and trusting that behavior is communication.
CREATING SOMATIC SAFETY
In my Whole Family, Whole Child approach, we see the body as essential to healing—not just for kids, but for caregivers, too.
Somatic safety goes beyond physical safety. It’s the internal felt sense of “I belong. I’m safe to be me.” For neurodivergent children, even “normal” school settings can register as overwhelming or unsafe.
WHAT
HELPS BUILD SOMATIC SAFETY?
Predictability and Structure: Visual schedules, practice runs, or gentle prep talks help their system orient.
Co-regulation: Your calm presence—even when you’re working hard to stay grounded—helps anchor them. A deep breath or hand on your heart can go a long way.
Body-Based Tools: Support self-regulation through sensory kits, movement breaks, or playful language like, “Is your body in rocket mode or snail mode today?”
Safety opens the door for flexibility, connection, and growth—even in environments that aren’t a perfect fit.
THE POWER OF THE ATTUNED PARENT
You don’t need to have all the answers.
Walking at their pace might mean extra time in the morning, more support during goodbyes, or less packed afternoons. Honoring their pace isn’t falling behind—it’s an investment in longterm resilience. A body that feels safe is a body that can learn, relate, and regulate.
Your presence, curiosity, and connection are what matter most.
Maybe your child is clingy this year. Maybe they’re holding it together at school, then melting down at home. Or maybe they need a chewy necklace, noise-canceling headphones, or a quiet place to decompress. That’s not failure. It’s data.
Being an attuned parent means:
Observing before reacting: What’s their body trying to say?
Offering choices: “Want to jump 10 times or take a squish with your pillow?”
Celebrating coping: “You listened to your body and took a break. That was so smart.”
And don’t forget—you matter, too. Your capacity, your regulation, and your softness are part of the picture.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE
Raising a neurodivergent child often means going against the grain—advocating for accommodations, navigating misunderstandings, and educating others who don’t see your child’s brilliance.
But you’re not alone. You’re part of a growing movement of caregivers redefining success—not by gold stars, but by connection, regulation, and wholeness.
This back-to-school season, remember: It’s okay to go slow at their pace. Your child’s needs are not an inconvenience.
YOUR INTUITION IS POWERFUL.
When we walk at the pace of our children and attune to their nervous systems, we lay the foundation for confidence, resilience, and selftrust. And isn’t that what real learning is all about?
SOMATIC TIPS FOR A SMOOTH BACK-TOSCHOOL TRANSITION
Start the Day With Body Connection: Stretching, bouncing, or animal walks help your child feel grounded before leaving the house.
Incorporate Breath Games: Blow feathers across the table, use pinwheels, or pretend to blow up a balloon with your hands to teach calm breathing playfully.
Use Visual Emotional Check-ins: Make a simple chart with faces or colors. Ask, “Where are you right now?” to support emotional literacy. Offer Pressure or Deep Touch: Hugs, squeezes, or being rolled in a blanket like a “burrito” can help regulate and soothe overwhelmed systems.
Practice After-School Reset Rituals: Let your child decompress before anything else— maybe with water play, swinging, or lying under a heavy blanket
Tovah Petra, MA is a Somatic Practitioner and the creator of the Whole Family, Whole Child approach, where she helps parents of neurodivergent kids create emotionally safe, attuned, and connected homes—while also nurturing their own nervous systems, relationships, and intimate connection along the way. Learn more at www.tovahpetra.com
ALL ABOUT ANIMALS
Keeping Cool in Santa Cruz’s August Heat
BY SARAH KRUMMEL
Come August, no part of Santa Cruz County escapes the heat of long summer hours. Aptos and La Selva finally peak through the marine layer that clung to them through June and July, while our mountain towns drop their window shades after their first cup of coffee to buffer the sun’s glare. Families with access to pools keep bags perpetually packed with noodles, sun hats, swim diapers, and sunscreen. If the beach is near, there’s a crust of sand in the car and an unspoken rule that everyone will be rinsing off before dinner.
The natural world adjusts its rhythm as well, with birds and deer busiest at dawn and dusk, avoiding the scorching afternoon hours. (Or perhaps avoiding the teens who seem to time their outings to the UV index like stockbrokers tracking the market.)
As families shift their schedules to make the most of summer weather, it’s worth pausing to consider the needs of our animals. Many pets in Santa Cruz, especially those accustomed to our coastal chill, aren’t built for temperatures over 80 degrees. Couch-potato pets may be even less prepared to handle a sudden spike in heat.
Tips for Helping Pets Beat the Heat
First rule: if your kids need sunscreen, your pets need shade.
Any outdoor time should include a shaded spot and plenty of cool, fresh water. Even short midday walks can be risky. A good rule of thumb? If you can’t keep the back of your hand on the pavement for 30 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Walks should be limited to early morning or late evening, when the ground is cooler.
80 degrees is an important threshold.
Above this, even brief excursions can be dangerous, especially for short-nosed breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs. Their anatomy makes panting less effective at cooling. Also, seniors and overweight pets are more prone to overheating.
Fitness matters. Many pets get less activity in cooler months. When it warms up, owners may be tempted to jump straight into long hikes or play sessions. Start slowly, with shorter outings to help them acclimate.
Grooming plays a role. Shaving some breeds might seem like the answer, but it isn’t always the right move. Doublecoated breeds such as Huskies often benefit from keeping their insulating coat intact, as long as it’s well-groomed
and mat-free. Regular brushing helps remove excess fur and mats, allowing better airflow. Before scheduling a summer shave, consult your veterinarian or groomer about what’s best for your pet’s coat.
Look for early signs of overheating: excessive panting that’s more intense than usual, disorientation, weakness, or gums turning bright red. Cats rarely pant, so if they’re breathing with their mouths open, they need help immediately. Move your pet to a shaded, cool area and offer water. If necessary, gently hose them down with cool (not icy) water or soak a towel and run a fan over their wet fur. Avoid ice-cold baths, which can constrict blood vessels and trap heat inside.
Never leave pets in a parked car, even briefly. Temperatures inside a car can soar alarmingly fast, even on mild days. Similarly, check outdoor sheds and greenhouses before closing their doors. Cats are notorious for slipping into sunny nooks that can turn lethal as the day heats up.
This month, talk with your kids about what your family can do: set out an extra water bowl on the porch for
PET OF THE MONTH Luna
neighborhood cats, volunteer to foster an animal who needs a cool, safe space, or donate to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter to help our Animal Control Officers keep vulnerable pets safe through the hottest days of the year.
Sarah Krummel is a Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter Foundation board member and a Program Specialist for Santa Cruz City Schools. Connect with her at sarah@ scanimalshelterfoundation.org
As the largest and most comprehensive animal care and rescue organization in the community, the open-admission Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter takes in about 7,000 animals each year. Government funding is limited, so we depend on our community to sustain our life-saving and pet homelessness prevention programs. The Shelter’s sister nonprofit Foundation helps to cover the costs for core services such as animal control; licensing and rabies vaccinations; safe housing for strays and surrenders; and intervention in animal abuse cases. The Foundation is also proactive in tackling root causes of animal overpopulation and suffering by offering prevention programs, exceptional medical care, humane education and community outreach.
This petite 6-year-old chihuahua is full of personality in her foster home and ready to find her forever family. Luna is slower to warm up to people, but rewards patience with cuddles, kisses, and happy dances. She loves sunbathing, walks, and warm blankets. She’s cohabitating with another dog and made a few neighborhood acquaintances but can be vocal during walks and responds well to positive reinforcement. Luna has medical needs including an old fracture and luxating patella. Adopters will need to have the resources (time, patience and finances) to work with Luna and a veterinarian throughout her lifetime. Adoption special happening in August, go to scanimalshelter. org more information or follow us on social media @officialscanimalshelter
Parents Not Thrilled About School Starting in August
BY JOANNA JENKINS
Some Santa Cruz parents say summer is getting shorter and shorter for their kids, seriously cutting down their childhood because school is starting earlier and earlier.
Parents at Santa Cruz and Pajaro Valley school districts are distributing a petition titled, “Bring Back August to SCCS Students”. These parents are concerned that students are losing prime summer vacation time in August, and believe that starting in September is ideal so families can thoroughly enjoy summer break.
For years, the debate over the ideal time for students to start the school year has been a controversial topic nationwide. In Santa Cruz County, SCCS 2025-2026 school starting date is August 7, and PVUSD schools start August 13. These earlier start dates have sparked disagreements amongst some students and families.
Sam Rolens, a spokesman for the Santa Cruz City Schools says the current calendar this in favor of an earlier start date, “addresses more concerns than it creates.” Some of those concerns include giving students enough time to prepare for Advanced Placement or AP tests
Rolens is the chief of communications and community engagement for SCCS. which includes running websites, producing print publications, videos, and communication in general.
Growing Up: Who’s idea was it to start the school year earlier?
SR: The campaign, which was going for a while, was led by students and families primarily, and the primary reasons for this were:
Winter Finals: There was a big push to start the year earlier, especially for secondary students so that they could take their final exams before winter
break. If they start school later in September, they have to take their finals after winter break–which students have expressed is stressful. Students expressed that studying during winter break is stressful.
Winter Break: Students desired an earlier school start so that they could go on winter break without worrying about finals. This way, students can be completely free and actually enjoy their break.
AP Testing: This was pushed to the Board of Trustees and head of curriculum by students and parents to have as much instruction as possible before AP testing in May. These tests have a huge impact on college admission and potential to receive college credit so they can take fewer general education classes in college. They did not want instruction during AP exams–this was detrimental. Teaching staff also supported these ideas for students and want to reduce stress on these students.
We have student representative trustees from each high school who sit in on the board and serve as a conduit for student interest. More students reach out to their representatives to advocate for their needs. Student trustees make reports of concerns from their campus.
Nationwide, this earlier start date is being adopted more and more especially to accommodate secondary students.
Growing Up: Who agreed to start the school year earlier? Was this a mutual agreement amongst teachers, parents, and faculty and the board?
SR: Yes, it was a mutual agreement amongst many students, staff, and parents after being brought to the board and the superintendent. Staff and students were able to deliver comments to the board and argue for the new changes
and the board approved of these changes.
Growing Up: Will school end earlier in June/May now?
SR: Yes they end at the end of May now.
Growing Up: Have you seen the petition some parents put together in protest of the school year starting earlier? What do you think of their concerns?
SR: Yes, it made the rounds at the start of the school year.
Democratic process is difficult because one side will get what they want and the other side won’t. Any calendar is going to be contentious, any schedule is going to be contentious. We regularly hear both sides of the issue and understand it affects some people positively and some negatively. We listened to the adamant desires of the students and parents who voiced their concerns and desires for change. We are constantly refining what we’re doing, but this is at least an issue where there’s a significant group of parents for this early start date. We do read through and discuss these comments. We want a calendar that works best for everyone. We still believe that we have a calendar that addresses more concerns than it creates. But it changed the nature of education and public service.
Growing Up: Parents are concerned that students starting the school year in the hot month of August has a negative impact on
them? What are your thoughts?
SR: I grew up in Santa Cruz and anyone in Santa Cruz will tell you that the hottest time of year is the end of September and early October. We have a late summer instead of a traditional summer. June and July tend to be quite cool, and August tends to be a cooler month as well. As we shift into fall, Santa Cruz experiences a bulk of heat.
Regardless of how we move the calendar, the students will experience heat in September/October. HVAC improvements are a top priority for the district. Dealing with the hot time of the year has become a high priority for all of our campuses. In the next few years, we will be building AC into all indoor spaces. We are now in a time where our years are hotter, so this will have a huge impact on the comfort of the learning conditions of students than the calendar does.
Growing Up: Parents are concerned that this early school start prevents students from enjoying the longest days of the year and limits their opportunities to enjoy traveling and the outdoors programs in the area. What are your thoughts on this?
SR: I do have sympathy for students and families that have summer programs that are impacted by this. They do have the same amount of summer break, just different days. I sympathize with the fact that it is hard to build a summer schedule but I want to remind everyone that students are still getting the same amount of summer vacation.
FASHION FORWARD
How to Pick the Perfect Outfit
BY MALIA FORT
Have you ever wondered what makes a good outfit? Or what catches your eye when choosing your attire? Is it the person wearing the clothes, or is it the clothes the person is wearing? Multiple factors can contribute to an eye-catching uniform. Personally, a good outfit is a reflection of a person’s soul. A good outfit should reflect who you are as a person. Not a trend you’re chasing or a group you’re itching to conform to. In Santa Cruz, I found a few individuals who mirror their inner beauty outward.
Mars Valentine
Each one of these lovely individuals is a great example of having a beautiful sense of style, yet they are all so different. Everyone agrees that finding your style is a very personal process. Say hello to Mars Valentine. They are a UCSC student who just graduated this year. Very early 2000s x comfy with an almost Indie color twist. Their jewelry is from Japan, where they studied abroad. Their Chuck E Cheese T-shirt is from a local store in downtown Santa Cruz called Motherload, where Mars works. Their baggy black denim jeans are from an exotic brand with a metal tag on the back, hard to read, but the brand may be Goho. Mustard colored sweater from their girlfriend and classic black platform Doc Martens. When choosing their outfit, Mars mainly steers towards comfort and whatever sparks their internal preferences. Mars finds inspiration from Santa Cruz, along with other people. They merge thrifting into their closet. Mars enjoys taking the time to pick out an outfit; they want the ritualistic aspect of it. The most important part of an outfit for Mars is the accessories, such as scarves, belts, and ties. They have a huge tie collection and usually wear one daily. Mars advises staying in your comfort zone, avoiding falling for trends, and listening to your preferences.
Dayzsha
Accessories can take a basic outfit to another level. All credit for the make-or-break of their outfits goes to accessories, whether it be a tie, a belt, or heavy jewelry. When in doubt, add an accessory, express yourself, and have fun with it. Here is Dayzsha. Dayzsha goes to UCSC. Dayzsha describes their style as ‘trashy 2000s’ x emo x classic. They are wearing a sleek black alternative style outfit with a nice pop of red and silver accessories. Their flowy long black skirt is from a Palestine fundraiser. Beautiful silver accessories are from a clothing swap, and the crystal bracelet is from their mother. Dayzsha agrees internal sources are what they choose to reflect onto themself and abstains from external sources. They prefer thrift shopping due to it being more affordable and allowing all types of styles to be found. Dayzsha suggests sticking to basics and layering accessories, using jewelry to make a statement. Dayzsha enjoys conveying themselves through clothing and refrains from a single aesthetic. Do what makes you happy. If you want to follow trends, you can, but Dayzsha recommends being careful not to avoid things just because they aren’t currently trending.
MJ
Solely pick out what you love, what resonates with you. Avoid being dictated by how good someone else looks. Embrace your beauty. Nothing’s more gorgeous than seeing someone being comfortable and confident in what they wear because you enjoy it. Not only do you see it, but you feel the difference. Last but definitely not least, here’s MJ. She is currently attending San Jose College, studying film. She wouldn’t categorize her style in one finite aesthetic. She does, however, find inspiration through music and Pinterest. Her black and white polka dot top with a beautiful asymmetrical cut from her friend, who agrees, reminds them of the musician Clairo. The thin black leather belt with silver buckle detailing is from her coworker friend. Dark wash medium rise baggy jeans are from a boutique in Japantown, San Jose, called Classic Route. Paired with classic black Doc Martens from eBay. She finds inspiration by being observant and by internal inspiration. MJ always looked forward to dressing herself up, even since she was a kid, she denied her parents’ help and knew what she liked. Advice MJ would give is to choose what feels good for you/ on you. Something that looks good on one person doesn’t mean it works well with you/what you like, and vice versa. When choosing outfits, belts are her main thing. Preferably chunky, big belts.
