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Claremont Unified School District Celebrates Dual Honors in Sustainability!

We are thrilled to announce that the Claremont Unified School District has been recognized as a 2024 Green Ribbon Schools Green Achiever! Only five educational institutions receive this award each year. This esteemed state award highlights our dedicated efforts toward innovative and effective environmental practices, including our robust recycling initiatives, energy-saving measures, and vibrant school gardens that enhance both education and sustainability.

Building on our state-level accolade, we are equally proud to share that CUSD has also achieved national recognition as a 2024 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School District Sustainability Awardee. This significant honor acknowledges our district-wide commitment to sustainability, focusing on reducing environmental impacts, improving health and wellness, and delivering exemplary environmental education. Our initiatives demonstrate our pledge not just to teach sustainability, but to live it, fostering a culture that respects and protects our planet.

These dual recognitions validate the hard work and passion of our students, teachers, staff, and community partners. Together, we are setting a standard for environmental stewardship and education. We are inspired to continue our journey of sustainability and look forward to sharing our ongoing successes with you all. Thank you for your support in achieving these remarkable milestones!

Kim Patterson Honored as CUSD and LA County Classified Employee of the Year

In a remarkable achievement, Mrs. Kim Patterson has been named the Claremont Unified School District and Los Angeles County Classified Employee of the Year. Mrs. Patterson has dedicated over three decades to serving CUSD in various capacities and is currently a Health Services Assistant at CHS.

Throughout her career, Mrs. Patterson has been a steadfast advocate for student health and safety, providing exceptional service and leadership, especially noted during the challenging times of the pandemic. Her compassionate approach and unwavering dedication have made her a beloved figure across the district.

Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Rick Lopez praised Mrs. Patterson's contributions: "Kim Patterson has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to our community. Her compassionate nature and professional integrity are at the heart of her service, making her a standout member of our team and deserving of this prestigious award."

A nominator reflected on Mrs. Patterson's impact, saying, "Kim's kindness and relentless dedication to the well-being of our students are what set her apart. She is not just fulfilling her role but is a pillar of support and excellence within our community."

Mrs. Patterson's recent LA County Classified Employee of the Year accolade further underscores her significant contributions, marking a historic first for CUSD. As she advances to consideration by the California Department of Education, the Claremont community stands proudly behind her, celebrating her outstanding achievements and ongoing commitment to excellence.

Celebrating Excellence: Geoff Payton Named CUSD Teacher of the Year

Claremont Unified School District proudly announces Mr. Geoff Payton, an exemplary educator at El Roble, as the 2024 Teacher of the Year. This distinguished award highlights Mr. Payton's significant contributions to the classroom and the school community.

Mr. Payton has been instrumental in leading the AVID program and has played a critical role in various shared decision-making groups, including the Technology Scope and Sequence committee. His innovative approach to integrating technology and curriculum development has set new standards for educational excellence within the district.

Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Rick Lopez praised Mr. Payton's achievements, highlighting his leadership and commitment to students at the last school board meeting. Mr. Payton's influence has fostered an environment of continuous improvement and community building, making him truly deserving of this recognition.

One of Mr. Payton's nominators shared their admiration for his dedication, stating, "Geoff is a natural leader who consistently uplifts his students and colleagues. His innovative methods and commitment to excellence significantly enhance our educational programs and student outcomes."

Mr. Payton's influence extends beyond his classroom, profoundly impacting his students' academic and personal growth. The Claremont community celebrates his well-deserved recognition as he continues to inspire future generations.

Play and Learn: Sumner Danbury's Inclusive Autism Awareness Picnic

April is a time of vibrant celebration and inclusivity during Autism Awareness Month on the Sumner Danbury Elementary School campus. The Parent Faculty Association (PFA) put on a sensory-friendly picnic to deepen understanding and acceptance of autism. Katie Wheatley, PFA's first chair, described the atmosphere: "We bring everyone together in one joyful space. Whether playing with bubbles or adding to the Weaving Wall, it's fun for all students to learn that while we may like different things, the joy of playing unites us all."

Sara Lenz, a Structured Teaching Class (STC) teacher for grades 4 through 6, shared the profound impact of the event on both special education and general education students. "This picnic allows our students to express themselves and teaches their peers about different needs and ways of communication," Lenz explained. She further emphasized the event's emotional resonance: "It makes me really happy to be part of a district that celebrates my students, showing that autism isn't just about differences—it's about turning those differences into celebrations." This sensory picnic provided a fun learning environment and promoted an inclusive community where every student's unique traits are celebrated.

Chaparral Elementary's Living History Day

At Chaparral Elementary School, second graders step back in time to experience the pioneer days through a vibrant Living History Day, a tradition that has evolved significantly over the years. Jennifer Kilpatrick, a dedicated teacher at Chaparral for 28 years, brings history to life by having her students dress up and engage in activities like sewing, square dancing, and making lanterns. "They're totally engaged because it's not just learning about somebody in a book. It's physically doing it. It's living history," Kilpatrick explains. This hands-on approach makes the learning process exciting and immersive.

The Living History Day, originally initiated by teacher Jane Theobald, has blossomed into a much-anticipated annual tradition that embraces parents as active participants. The involvement of families enriches the educational experience, transforming it into a community celebration of historical learning and craftsmanship. Kilpatrick, who takes delight in perpetuating this unique educational practice, shares, "The fact that it is a tradition that's going forward and things like sewing, kids don't do that, and it's just sort of neat to do things outside of the normal, just learn about the past." Through these activities, Chaparral Elementary not only imparts history but also nurtures a sense of community and continuity, weaving past and present into a tapestry of shared experiences.

CHS Junior Shines in National Chemistry Olympiad

At Claremont High School, Junior Hadi Faour is making waves in the academic world with his outstanding performance in the U.S. National Chemistry Olympiad (USNCO). After conquering the local competition, where he ranked first among 120 participants, Hadi advanced to the national level, competing against the top 1,000 students selected from over 16,000 nationwide. "I moved on to National because I scored well, and I'm still waiting for the results. I'm hoping for top 50," Hadi shared, expressing his anticipation and hopes for recognition among the nation's best.

Hadi's journey into competitive chemistry began less than six months ago, sparked by a newfound passion for the subject during his AP Chemistry class. This rapid ascent from classroom interest to national competitor highlights not only his dedication but also the challenging nature of the Olympiad. "It's really interesting because it's really advanced topics they teach in college. I like it; it makes sense," he explained about his attraction to the complex content of the competition. Hadi's story is not just about personal achievement but also about inspiring others to explore and excel in chemistry, emphasizing the opportunities that rigorous academic competitions like the USNCO can offer motivated students.