Career Day at Mountain View Elementary School was a resounding success, offering students an enriching experience as they explored a variety of career paths. The event featured an impressive lineup of presenters from diverse professions, giving students a glimpse into numerous exciting and rewarding careers.

Students had the opportunity to engage with professionals from various fields, including healthcare, law, the arts, education, public service, and technology. This diverse representation allowed students to ask questions and gain valuable insights into potential careers. Highlights included a visit from the Mayor of Pomona and experts in veterinary science, food science, cyber security, and more.

One of the most engaging parts of the day was the visit from L.A. County FireFighter Louis Gudiel and his search dog, Gordon. Gudiel not only showcased the essential gear needed for fighting fires but also explained how Gordon assists on the job, truly captivating the students' attention. CalTrans also played a significant role with a hands-on show and tell outside the school, where they showcased their work trucks and tools. This interactive session allowed students to ask questions and learn about the important work CalTrans does every day. Career Day at Mountain View Elementary was an inspiring event, leaving students excited about their future possibilities.

The Claremont Unified School District (CUSD) recently hosted an inspiring and dynamic STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) Night at Sumner Danbury Elementary School, marking the first time since 2019. This year, the event featured a student-led format, allowing middle and high school students to take the lead and create an engaging and educational experience for all attendees.

The success of STEAM Night was a result of a dedicated team effort. Anne Dieken, a fellow technology TOSA, and Jessica Jackman Uy, TOSA for Arts Education, played significant roles in planning and preparation. The support from the entire Educational Services Department and the Sumner Danbury administration and staff was invaluable. "Our team worked incredibly well together, and their hard work made this event a tremendous success," Byrne said, emphasizing the sense of community and teamwork that made the event possible.

Natalie Byrne, Education Technology TOSA (Teacher on Special Assignment), shared insights into the event's transformation. "When I came into the department, I wanted to make STEAM Night student-led. We had great success with our coding night and applied that model here. This year, we had over 20 student-led booths from all secondary sites, including San Antonio High School, Claremont High School, and El Roble Intermediate School."

Preparation for the event was extensive, with Byrne and her colleagues holding multiple meetings with students to ensure they were well-prepared. "We had six meetings, two at each site, to get the students ready. It was about empowering and giving them leadership opportunities," Byrne explained.

The STEAM Night booths showcased various activities and experiments, all designed to engage and educate elementary students. From painting with technology to interactive theater games and the popular Sphero mural, each station offered a unique hands-on experience. "We incorporated ideas from past STEAM nights and allowed students to bring their creative ideas," said Byrne. "For example, the video production team from Claremont High brought their cameras and interviewed attendees, adding an artistic and technical dimension to the night."

The event's success was evident in the enthusiasm and engagement of both the students and families. "The best part for me was watching the secondary students take total ownership of their booths," Byrne shared. "Seeing them confidently explain and demonstrate their projects, and witnessing the elementary kids fully engaged without distractions, was truly magical."

CUSD's STEAM Night was a testament to the power of student leadership and collaboration. It provided a memorable and educational experience for all involved. The success of this event sets a promising foundation for future STEAM initiatives within the district.

On Thursday, May 2, Sumner Danbury Elementary School hosted its annual Author's Day, a beloved tradition that celebrates the creative writing talents of our students. The event started with performances by Imagination Machine, a children's theater group that selected stories written by our students and brought them to life in two assemblies—one for primary grades and another for upper grades. Witnessing the joy on our students' faces as they saw their stories performed was heartwarming. Proud parents of the selected student authors attended, adding to the excitement.

Following the assemblies, the entire school, united in their love for literature, participated in an all-school read. Students met in mixed grade-level groups with a staff member to share their own writing. Each student had the opportunity to read their piece and engage with their audience, emphasizing the importance of writing for a real audience. All staff members, including many retired staff members, facilitated groups of about 6-10 students, fostering an environment of support and encouragement. It was inspiring to see our students proudly sharing their stories and creating beautiful memories with their peers, reinforcing the strong sense of community at Sumner Danbury Elementary School.

After sharing their writings, students colored bookmarks designed by our talented student artists, adding a creative touch to the celebration. A special thank you goes to kindergarten teacher Mrs. Denise Klinovsky for her dedication and hard work in making this event a success. Her efforts ensured that Author's Day was a memorable and impactful experience for all.

The Claremont Unified School District (CUSD) proudly hosted its annual "Honor Our Own" event inside the Claremont High School Gym, celebrating employees' outstanding contributions and dedication. This special event, organized in partnership with the Claremont Management Association, California School Employees Association, and Claremont Faculty Association, recognized staff for their years of service, honored exemplary employees, retirees, and celebrated a community member for their extraordinary contributions. This year, employees were awarded service pins for their dedication spanning from 10 to 40 years, and 24 retirees were honored for their committed service to the district.

Among the highlights, Ryan Easton, a dedicated teacher at Claremont High School, was honored as the 2023-2024 Teacher of the Year for his exceptional leadership and commitment to education. Marilyn Dotts, a Licensed Vocational Nurse known for her compassion and dedication, was honored as the Classified Employee of the Year. Additionally, Frank D'emilio, President of the CLASP (Claremont After School Programs) Board of Directors, received the prestigious Richard S. Kirkendall Award for his significant contributions to the community.

Superintendent Dr. Jim Elsasser delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing deep gratitude for the staff's hard work and commitment. "Your dedication to the Claremont Unified School District has made a profound difference in the lives of our students," Dr. Elsasser said, highlighting the core values of Excellence, Equity, Innovation, and Integrity that guide the district. The "Honor Our Own" event was a beautiful celebration of the district's employees and their invaluable contributions, marking another successful year of dedication and excellence in education.

Chaparral Elementary School recently hosted a Primary Track Meet for their first through third graders, providing young athletes with a fun and competitive environment. With two races happening simultaneously, students had the chance to race against their peers, fostering a sense of camaraderie and school spirit. Parent volunteers supported the event by setting up tents for students to relax under and cheering on participants. The energy was noticeable as students who had finished their races cheered for their classmates with homemade signs, making the event a memorable and community-driven experience.

The Claremont High School Choir, under the direction of Dr. Joel Wilson, recently delivered a phenomenal performance at their annual spring concert held at Little Bridges. This cherished event, which spans two nights, brings together students, families, and the community to celebrate the musical achievements of all grade levels and honor the personal growth of the senior class.

Dr. Wilson explained the unique elements of the concert, highlighting the special recognition given to teachers on the first night. "Every senior gets to pick two teachers they want to honor. In the middle of the concert, we call the teachers up, and each student gets to give them flowers. It's a beautiful moment of gratitude and recognition," he shared.

This concert marks a significant milestone for the seniors as their culminating event in the choir. "It's the seniors saying goodbye to the school year, choir, and the family they've built here," Dr. Wilson noted. This year's theme was food, and the choir performed songs fitting this theme. Reflecting on the importance of the event, Dr. Wilson emphasized, "This senior class is particularly special to me because they are the first group I've had for six years. Seeing them grow from 12-year-olds to 18-year-olds and preparing to enter society is truly amazing."

Dr. Wilson hopes that every student finds their own "home" on campus, where they feel a sense of belonging and support, whether in choir, sports, or the arts. "I just hope that every kid finds their tribe, their people, and their group that they can call their home," he said. The spring concert is a celebration of musical talent and a testament to the supportive and nurturing environment fostered within the Claremont High School Choir program.

Claremont High School sophomores Xin Lu and Ile Joy Cheng recently achieved remarkable success in the California Department of Education Armenian Legislative Caucus Foundation's Visual Art Contest. Xin Lu secured first place and a $1,000 prize, while Ile Joy Cheng earned third place and a $500 prize. Their artwork highlighted the humanitarian and refugee crisis caused by the Azerbaijani blockade of the Republic of Artsakh, capturing the individual and collective impacts on the Armenian community.

Xin Lu's piece depicted the blockade's effects on Armenians' daily lives, emphasizing the struggles for necessities like medicine and food. She explained, "I wanted to show how each individual is impacted and how collectively they experience this crisis." Meanwhile, Ile Joy Cheng's "Sisters of Sorrow" portrayed two sisters holding hands, symbolizing families torn apart by the genocide, with intricate Armenian designs representing cultural heritage. "I wanted to convey the impact of the Armenian genocide on the people and bring awareness to this under-discussed topic," Cheng shared.

Both students emphasized the importance of thorough research and emotional connection in creating their pieces. Their dedication and talent have brought significant recognition to Claremont High School, marking the first time two students from the school have placed in the competition in the same year.

The Claremont Unified School District (CUSD) proudly recognizes the remarkable achievements of our dedicated educators who have recently completed the rigorous Foothill Consortium Induction Program. 

Teacher Completers:

Dylan DiGrazia

Anthony Fontana

Rebeca Garcilazo

Daniela Jarquin

Nazareth Martinez

Vanessa Martinez-Rios

Stephanie Redcher

Martin Renteria

Administrator Completers:

Jessica Ly

Julie Pak

The Foothill Consortium, a collaboration of five districts, including CUSD, is a credentialing agency that provides crucial support and mentorship to new teachers and administrators, ensuring they are well-prepared for the profession's challenges.The two-year induction program equips new educators with essential tools and mentorship to navigate their early years in the profession. It emphasizes understanding students' needs, differentiating instruction, and mastering administrative tasks like IEPs and 504 plans. This comprehensive support structure ensures that teachers are prepared and confident in their roles.

Completing the induction program is no small accomplishment, and for many educators, it marks the end of a long and challenging journey. There is a tremendous sense of relief and accomplishment. These teachers and administrators have often undergone intensive support and instruction while balancing their full-time roles. Their dedication and perseverance are truly commendable.

Feedback from program completers consistently underscores the program's value. Teachers often express how the program taught them what they didn't learn in college and provided a supportive structure and mentorship. This program is essential in preparing and retaining high-quality educators.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all our program completers and express our gratitude to the Foothill Consortium Induction Program for their unwavering commitment to excellence in education.

Assistant Superintendent Kevin Ward expressed immense pride in the accomplishments of the induction program completers. They are better prepared than many of their predecessors. This level of support is what will keep folks in the profession.

Join us in celebrating the hard work and achievements of our educators, whose dedication and passion for teaching continue to inspire and shape the future of our students.

Claremont High School graduate Kelly Xu (Class of 2022) continues to make her alma mater proud with her recent success at Stanford University. As a key player for the Stanford women's golf team, Xu played a significant role in helping her team secure the NCAA Championship with a 3-2 win over UCLA. Her hard work and dedication have inspired her teammates and coaches alike, and her journey from winning the 2014 Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals to excelling in college golf is truly remarkable. To read more about Kelly Xu's achievements and the Stanford team's victory, click the button below.

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