Claremont Unified School District (CUSD) is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a $25,000 REACH (Race, Education, and Community Healing) Network Grant, thanks to the efforts of Rosa Leong and Interim El Roble Principal, Trisha Callella. The grant will fund a pioneering program at El Roble Intermediate School, focused on implementing restorative justice and mentorship to provide alternatives to out-of-school suspensions for historically marginalized students. This substantial support from the REACH Network—an initiative of UCLA's Center for the Transformation of Schools and the UC Berkeley School of Education—enables CUSD to enhance its disciplinary methods and establish a more nurturing, equitable, and constructive school environment.

The initiative signifies a shift from punitive disciplinary actions to ones that offer support and promote healing to reduce disparities in discipline. CUSD is eager to roll out this comprehensive program that promises to transform El Roble Intermediate School's approach to discipline by integrating restorative practices that underscore the district's dedication to equity and community engagement. By embracing these inclusive strategies, CUSD is committed to fostering an educational setting where every student has the potential to thrive and succeed.

To read UCLA’s full press release, click here.

A beacon of youthful inspiration and civic engagement shines through at Claremont High School. Fiona Wu, a Sophomore in the Middle Years Program (MYP), exemplifies the district's commitment to fostering global-mindedness, critical thinking, and active citizenship among its students.

Fiona, who joined the MYP to deepen her understanding of the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework and to engage more closely with her community, has taken an innovative approach to her personal project. Motivated by a critical issue facing our democracy—youth voter turnout—Fiona embarked on a mission to educate and mobilize her peers.

Her project, which focused on increasing youth voter turnout, was born from a realization during a debate round that youth engagement in elections was alarmingly low. Fiona saw this as a topic for academic discussion and a call to action. She initiated a pre-registration drive at Claremont High School to empower juniors and seniors with the knowledge and opportunity to participate in the electoral process.

The drive was a practical application of the skills and values promoted by the MYP, illustrating the program's emphasis on real-world relevance and the application of learned concepts to community improvement. Fiona's advisor and the collaboration with various stakeholders—including teachers, administrators, and fellow students—highlighted the communal effort in bringing such initiatives to life.

Fiona's project seamlessly integrated into the MYP framework, encouraging students to explore their passions while developing a sense of social responsibility. The voter registration initiative provided a platform for practical civic engagement and fostered a sense of belonging and contribution among students. By involving homeroom discussions, Fiona ensured that the project resonated, encouraging her peers to consider their roles in shaping the future.

Reflecting on her experience, Fiona emphasized the importance of risk-taking and believing in one's ability to effect change. Her success with the voter registration drive is a testament to the power of youth initiatives and the impact of educational programs supporting student-led projects. Fiona's story is a compelling example of how the MYP cultivates leaders prepared to tackle challenges, think critically, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

As CUSD celebrates achievements like Fiona's, it's clear that the MYP is more than just an academic program; it's a launchpad for young change-makers. Fiona Wu's project on youth voter turnout not only addresses a crucial societal need but also embodies the spirit of active, informed citizenship that "CUSD Celebrates!" aims to foster.

Through initiatives like Fiona's, Claremont Unified is nurturing a generation ready to engage with and improve the world around them. This commitment to empowering student voices and actions reaffirms the district's dedication to excellence in education and civic responsibility, laying the groundwork for a future where every student can make a difference.

In a recent visit to San Antonio High School, Mayor Sal Medina of Claremont's District 5 shared an empowering message with the students, drawing from his rich life experiences. Born in Jalisco, Mexico, and raised in Azusa, California, Mayor Medina's journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the power of community.

Medina's educational path is both relatable and inspiring. After obtaining an Associate's degree from Citrus College, he earned a Bachelor's in Political Science and a Master's in Education from the University of La Verne. His career has spanned various fields, from Education and politics to wine and hospitality, demonstrating the diverse paths success can take.

Addressing the students, Mayor Medina emphasized the importance of perseverance and the value of a strong support network. His story of working full-time while attending college, balancing responsibilities at home, and serving as a translator for his non-English-speaking mother resonated deeply with many students. 

The Mayor also highlighted the significance of embracing one's heritage and the advantages of bilingualism, especially in a multicultural state like California. His experiences as a first-generation American and the role of language in bridging communities resonated with many San Antonio High School students.

Mayor Medina's visit to San Antonio High School was a moment of connection, inspiration, and empowerment for the students. In sharing his story, he extended a bridge of understanding and encouragement, affirming that every student's dreams and aspirations are valid and attainable.

Sycamore and Vista have had a long-standing tradition of going to camp together.  During the week of January 22nd, both schools once again ventured up the mountain to Twin Peaks, California.  While at camp, students not only become bonded with their classmates but have the opportunity to meet new friends who they will later meet up with at El Roble.  Sixth grade students were able to participate in many educational activities throughout the week including hiking, dance parties, games and skits. 

As a part of CUSD’s commitment to academic achievement, teachers are engaging in intensive staff development for supporting young readers. This month, a cohort of Sycamore’s primary staff as well as teachers from Chaparral, school interventionists and Teachers on Special Assignment (TOSAs), will complete the AIM Pathways to Proficient Reading training. This 40-hour program is focused on the knowledge and skills of the science of reading.  Approved by the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) and partially funded by a grant through the International Dyslexia Association of Los Angeles, the training equips staff with research-based methods designed to improve literacy outcomes for all learners, including those at risk for reading difficulties as well as students with disabilities. This is the second CUSD cohort to engage in the AIM Pathway training.  Similar, Orton-Gillingham-based literacy training has been provided to all TOSAs, Intervention Teachers and Educational Specialists.

Friday evening, January 19th, Oakmont held their annual Winterfest where families were invited to come and participate in making some crafts, doing some activities, and making special treats. The evening started with a performance by Oakmont's own Glee Club. They sang several songs for our engaged audience, such as "Once upon a December" and the much-loved "Let it Go."  Following that performance, we had Oakmont Cheer and Tumble perform. Both the 1st-3rd grade team and 4th-6th grade team gave crowd-pleasing performances. Students, families, and staff spent the rest of the evening enjoying the fun night filled with lots of laughter.

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