Category Archives: School News

Local Students Showcase Artistic Talent and Water Conservation

Photo courtesy: Clarissa Rosario

Photo courtesy: Clarissa Rosario

Staff Reports

Four local students are the winners of the Jurupa Community Services District’s (JCSD) annual “Water is Life” children’s poster contest.

While approximately 1200 posters were submitted, these four students stood out.  Students were asked to design a poster that embodied the contest theme and promoted water conservation awareness. A panel of internal judges selected the top 100 finalists, according to district officials. Two winners were selected each for the grand prize and Community’s Choice Award.

Grand prize winner, Margaret Angela Rosario, 13, of Ramirez Intermediate School in Eastvale, drew a picture of a group of teens and animals drinking water under a rainbow sky with a truck filled with water gallons. She states on the image, “water energizes everything to make our surroundings healthy” and “people need water to live.”

“I thought my art piece was too dark colored to understand my message,” Margaret said. “I knew there were plenty of talented artists out there, most likely my sister, and I was extremely grateful to have my art contributed in being displayed in the community.”

Third-grader Samara Campos of Stone Avenue Elementary in Jurupa Valley was the second grand prize contest winner.

The contest proved to be a family affair when community judges selected Margaret’s sister, Mariah Camille Rosario, 15, for the Community Choice Award. “I am really grateful and honored to win a contest that inspires many in my community to conserve water and make the environment a better place,” the Eleanor Roosevelt High School sophomore said.

Fifth-grader Elisha Savalia of Eastvale Elementary was also selected for the Community Choice Award.

Each of the grand prize winners received an iPad mini. The community choice winners each received a Samsung Galaxy Tablet. Each winner and their teacher were also recognized at a ceremony during the JCSD’s Board of Directors’ meeting. The teacher of each winning student received a $75 CM School Supply gift card. All four of the student’s artwork will be displayed in the district’s main gallery.

“This win helped me become more aware in conserving water at home and even in my own community,” Margaret said.

The district is looking for the next young talent. The 2016 “Water is Life” poster contest will begin taking entries starting Jan. 5. The contest is open to all students who live or are enrolled in schools within the Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD) service area. The deadline to submit is Feb. 5.  For more information, visit http://www.jcsd.us/PosterContest or call (951) 727- 3521.

 

“Parents on Point” Sheds Light on Teen Issues

By Emily Aguilar

EASTVALE – Eleanor Roosevelt High School held its first ever Parents on Point event on Tuesday, Oct. 13. The purpose of the evening was to inform parents on issues concerning teenagers such as bullying and social media usage. Cindy Cole, the parent of an ERHS freshman, was inspired to organize the event by her cousin, who has dealt with adolescent suicides in the San Diego area. Cole believes the city will benefit from the program because it will educate parents on the difficult conflicts their children confront every day.

Before the introductory announcement began, parents were welcome to browse the booths set up by representatives from Planned Parenthood, CNUSD Tobacco and Vapes, Hope Collaborative, and a booth that provided ultrasounds for teenagers. Many parents took the time to pick up brochures and ask questions about the programs.

After a brief overview, parents were sent to the F Building for a two-part session. In both sessions, parents had the option to attend a half hour presentations dealing with social media awareness, adolescent education, eating disorders, substance abuse awareness, suicide, parenting, or bullying.

Each presentation was lead by parents, current or retired law enforcers, or representatives from an organization; in other words these presenters had the right information to shock and educate their audience.

Parents were enthralled by the astonishing statistics, videos, and stories regarding the topic. They constantly interrupted presenters to ask questions or express disgust.

“I had no idea how easy it is for kids to lose their way,” remarked Paula James after Brian Nissen’s presentation on bath salts. “At least, [the schools] want to solve the issues!”

By far the most intriguing presentation was Jesse Winkler’s social media presentation. The room was flooded with intrigued parents struggling to listen to Winkler’s presentation from both inside the densely packed room and in the hallway. In his presentation, Winkler focused on social media’s negative effects on adolescents. While he defended social media for its benefits, Winkler argued that social media has turned teenagers against one another and has put them in danger, to which parents responded with disappointed sighs and terrified expressions. In fact, while talking about an app called “Burnbook,” which is used to anonymously post rumors about classmates, parents were silent upon learning that the app triggered suicides and fights across campuses.

Winkler, much like other speakers, assured parents that they should not “crack the whip” on their kids after this presentation. He told the audience to assure their children that they are “in your corner,” meaning that parents and children must have proper communication with each other in order to help them, and possibly save them.

“I’m definitely gonna let my girls open up to me,” stated Andrea Byrne on her way out.

Arrests in False Bomb Threats at Two Corona High Schools

Staff Reports

CORONA – Corona Police have arrested a 17-year-old Lee V. Pollard High School student on suspicion of making two false bomb threats.

On Tuesday, Oct. 20, shortly after 12:07 p.m., the Corona teen called Pollard High School stating there was a bomb on campus. Shortly after the first call, the minor placed a second call stating the bomb would go off in five minutes.

The next day, Oct. 21, at about 2:40 p.m., the same teen placed a call to Corona High School stating that a bombs were placed at all exits and would go off when the final school bell rang.

In both incidents, high school resource officers and school personnel conducted a thorough search of the campus and were unable to locate any explosive devices.
“The Corona Police Department will continue to investigate bomb threats to their fullest extent, as these types of incidents instill fear in students, their parents, faculty, and our community,” said Public Information Officer Sergeant Paul Mercado. “These types of investigations draw significant amounts of public safety resources away from legitimate purposes. Those found to be engaged in making false bomb threats will be held accountable.”
The teen was arrested and taken to Riverside County Juvenile Hall for making false bomb threats and criminal terrorist threats.
The school district will also take disciplinary actions against the student.

“Our district will not tolerate this type of behavior,” said Michael G. Cobarrubias, Associate Superintendent Corona-Norco USD.

CNUSD School Resource Officers Honored

Courtesy of CNUSD

Corona/Norco – The School Safety Advocacy Council recently awarded the Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD) with the 2015 Exemplary School Safety Initiative Award for its Project Safety Net Program.

CNUSD was the only district in California to receive this award, and one of eight in the entire nation.

The Project Safety Net Program is a partnership between CNUSD and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, whose mission is to provide a safe and caring environment so students can excel in their academic studies. The principal goal of Project Safety Net is to identify and anticipate safety concerns and systematically address each concern through the application of best practices.

On Sept. 15, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors recognized and honored CNUSD and Riverside County Sheriff’s Deputies Cooper, Huggins, and Thompson for receiving this prestigious award. These Deputies serve as school resource officers for Eleanor Roosevelt High School, Norco High School, and five middle schools in CNUSD.  Each of these Deputies utilized hard work, dedication, and integrity to serve the staff and promote a safe learning environment for the students.

Arrest Made In Centennial Bomb Threats

Staff Reports

Corona – After an extensive investigation by local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, the Corona Police Department (CPD) has confirmed the arrest of a Colorado Springs minor for making false bomb threats at Centennial High School in Corona, on Tues., Sept. 8.

According to the CPD, the false bomb threats made to the school resulted in significant monetary costs for law enforcement, and the Fire Department’s response and investigation. The CPD’s costs alone exceeded $21,000. The costs for additional security totaled approximately $20,000. In addition, there was the cost of wages and benefits paid to Centennial staff, unable to teach due to the campus closure.

The City of Corona and CNUSD officials intend to pursue restitution for those costs from the responsible parties.
“The Corona Police Department takes threats to our schools very seriously and will devote all necessary resources to investigating threats to their full potential so that people who engage in these crimes can be held accountable,” said Chief of Police Mike Abel. “The safety of our children and schools is our top priority.”

Norco High – A Model Of Innovation

Staff Reports

Norco – Future Farmers of America selected Norco High as a finalist for the National Chapter Award Program Model of Innovation in the area of Student Development. Norco High joins an exclusive list of just ten schools nationwide to be nominated for this distinction.

Student development in Norco High’s Agricultural Program focuses on the creation of a Food Pantry, Supervised Agricultural Experience projects that build student skills in Animal Husbandry, Agriscience, Floral Design, and Horticulture; and finally, the $5 Challenge, a community service project.

Representatives of the program will travel to Louisville, KY in October to give a final presentation and interview. It will be televised on RFD-TV.

“We are honored and humbled to be among the select national 3 out of 3 star chapters in the National FFA Organization,” said Robin Grundmeyer, who teaches Floral Design at Norco High. “Of those nationally, we are proud to be considered a finalist for the model of innovation in the student category. Our students have worked hard in their service of the community and as advisors we are ecstatic to see the recognition of their hard work.”

Norco High continues to offer an excellent Agriculture Education Model that prepares students to become future leaders in the agriculture industry.

To read more, visit https://pulse.ffa.org/index.php/2015/08/10/finalists-2015-national-chapter-awards/Norco HS Agriculture Department

Eastvale: College Athletics – What Families Need To Hear

Photo Courtesy: Recruiting Realities Jack Renkens

Photo Courtesy: Recruiting Realities
Jack Renkens

By B.B. Beard, Chicago Blog Company

Eastvale – National keynote speaker, Jack Renkens of Recruiting Realities, brought his unique, no-nonsense presentation on college athletic recruiting to Eleanor Roosevelt High School on Aug. 31.  His presentation, “It’s a Game… Know the Rules,” served as a reality check for families of student-athletes looking to get their degree and play at the college level.

Entering his 18th year touring the United States, Renkens has established himself as one of the top athletic/motivational speakers in the nation, presenting at state athletic conferences, football clinics, college financial planning groups, sports camps and high schools from coast to coast. His speaking tour includes over 170 high schools each year, with enrollments from 250 to 2,500 students. As a former high school/college coach and athletic director, Renkens has written 14 books on the recruiting process.

Renkens’ message is never sugar-coated. “It may not be what some parents want to hear, but it definitely is what they need to hear. I’m primarily trying to get families to be realistic about the opportunities that are available and to get them to understand it’s about getting your education, not about hitting the ball, kicking the ball, throwing the ball. It’s about finding the right match academically.”

One of the many realities Renkens details are the high expectations of athletes and parents when it comes to having sports pay for a college education.

“There are a lot of student-athletes out there and less than one percent are going to a Division 1 school,” he said. “However, you’ve got 99 percent of kids out there that can play at the college level in divisions other than D1. The key is finding the right school and financial aid package.”

“Student-athletes need to come to terms with three basic realities,” Renkens said.

 

  1. “You don’t get to pick the school. They pick you.
  2. “A college coach can’t recruit you if he/she doesn’t know who you are. Student-athletes need to market themselves.
  3. “Don’t get hung up on the words ‘athletic scholarship.’ Focus on ‘funding’ comprised of academic money, merit money, grants, endowment and achievement money.”

 

At the presentation, parents had an opportunity to hear the truth about college athletic recruiting, the role of their high school coach, the impact of today’s social media and where parents fit into the process.

If your son or daughter is serious about getting a college degree and passionate about the sport they play, and you were unable to attend the event, visit the Recruiting Realities website at www.recruitingrealities.com. To see him in action, search Jack Renkens on YouTube.com

CNUSD Receives National School Safety Honor

Staff Reports

Corona/Norco – The Corona-Norco Unified School District’s Project Safety Net Program has been selected to receive the 2015 Exemplary School Safety Initiative Award by the School Safety Advocacy Council, a recognized leader in school safety based services and training. CNUSD was honored at the National School Safety Conference on July 27, in Las Vegas, NV.

The Exemplary School Safety Initiative Award honors Districts nation-wide that have implemented programs that have had a significant impact in school safety and the community. The Project Safety Net Program serves over 53,000 students and their families in the District.

Under the outstanding leadership of Associate Superintendent of Instructional Support, Michael Cobarrubias, Project Safety Net was implemented in the summer of 2013 to ensure that each and every member of the school community experiences a safe and caring educational environment.

The overarching goal of Project Safety Net is to identify and anticipate safety concerns and systematically address each concern through the application of best practices. A key component to the success of the program is the development of innovative partnerships between the District and the Corona Police Department, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, students, parents and community organizations.

School safety is of paramount importance to CNUSD, and this accolade confirms the District’s ongoing commitment to keeping its campuses safe.

Reagan Elementary

Setting students on a path of integrity toward success

Photo Courtesy: Sarah Sanchez Ronald Reagan Elementary School

Photo Courtesy: Sarah Sanchez
Ronald Reagan Elementary School

By K.P. Sander

Eastvale – Ronald Reagan Elementary opened its doors on July 6, as “Wranglers” for Tracks A, C and D started off the new school year in style.

With a few first-day jitters behind them, the newest member of the Corona-Norco Unified School District’s family is up and running with aplomb, and students and teachers alike are enjoying their beautiful new surroundings.

Principal Susan Helms, who has been a CNUSD principal for the past ten years, is proud to be guiding the District’s 50th school to success.

“It is extremely exciting and an honor to be here,” says Helms.  “We are here to provide a stellar education for our students, first and foremost.”

Helms also praises the stellar staff that she is surrounded by.

“Our school community from an employee perspective is wonderful, and the culture we are creating is off to such a positive start.”

Reagan started the school year with 1,250 students (which include all four tracks – B Track started Aug. 3).  Helms says the majority of their  population came from a boundary restructuring that mostly affected Barton Elementary, which was over capacity at its peak with 1,800 students.  Reagan also has 46 teachers on staff, utilizing 41 state-of-the-art classrooms.

Photo Courtesy: K.P. Sander 2nd Grade teacher, Erin Monroe, and 6th Grade teacher, Daniel Monroe – a husband and wife team committed to excellence at Ronald Reagan Elementary.

Photo Courtesy: K.P. Sander

Photo Courtesy: K.P. Sander

Photo Courtesy: K.P. Sander. 2nd Grade teacher, Erin Monroe, and 6th Grade teacher, Daniel Monroe – a husband and wife team committed to excellence at Ronald Reagan Elementary.

2nd Grade teacher, Erin Monroe – who previously taught at Barton Elementary – has a simple, but effective, philosophy for her students:  “Always try your best!”

“We are working on character development,” says Erin.  “Students are constantly reminded to be responsible citizens filled with integrity, who are aware of others.”

There is a motto posted in Erin’s classroom, encouraging students to keep that positive behavior at the forefront of their days:  “We are Reagan Wranglers!  We ride with PRIDE – Positive – Resilience – Integrity – Determined – Encouraging.  Blazing a trail to success!  Yeehaw!” She doesn’t hesitate to give out “Brag Tags” as a reinforcement of those positive behaviors.

Erin enjoys working with the DOJO app, a communication tool that keeps her in sync with parents at a moment’s notice.  Through broadcast or individual messages, parents are aware of assignments, behaviors and events that help improve the partnership for student success.  Students know that this technology provides their parents with instantaneous updates, which helps with accountability.

Erin’s husband, and fellow Reagan teacher, Daniel Monroe, has a similar philosophy for his 6th Grade students – teaching not only academics, but skills to set them up for successes that will carry them through life.  “Progress, not perfection,” is the journey he wants his students on.

“The first day of school was so exciting,” says Daniel.  “The energy was contagious and it is great to be with such a positive staff creating this new culture.  We are a team here – everybody is seeking the same Wrangler Pride.”

While the peer-to-peer accountability and being kind and supportive of each other also drives Daniel’s teaching values, the focus for these 6th Graders is CCR:  College/Career Readiness.  By instilling a yes-you-can attitude into students now, it helps stop the excuses for why they can’t later.

“I feel my role as a facilitator is to ask students what they would choose to do when nobody is watching,” says Daniel.

He says it is all about accountability with these students, who are amazingly well-organized with their super-binders – with a place for everything, and everything in its place; just another tool for success that helps to stop the excuses.

“Ronald Reagan said, ‘America is too great for small dreams,’ says Helms.  “I feel the same way about Reagan Elementary.  We are too great for small dreams; we have lofty goals and want our students to have every opportunity possible.”

With such dedicated leadership and philosophies for success, these Wranglers are indeed lucky to be studying at Ronald Reagan Elementary.

Reagan Elementary is located at 8300 Fieldmaster St., in the southwest corner of Eastvale.  They can be reached at (951) 736-7737.  The official opening will be held on Fri., Aug. 28, with a ribbon cutting ceremony and festivities.

Eastvale: ERHS Student Receives National Award

Photo Courtesy: Hamilton Friends 2015 Hamilton Award Winner, Emily Lundberg

Photo Courtesy: Hamilton Friends
2015 Hamilton Award Winner, Emily Lundberg

Staff Reports

Eastvale – Emily Lundberg, a student at Eleanor Roosevelt High, has received the national Alexander Hamilton Citizenship Achievement Award for superior community service and achievement.  Hamilton Awards are given annually by The Alexander Hamilton Friends Association (Hamilton Friends) of Seattle, Washington.  Winners receive a scholarship, commemorative certificates, memorabilia, and acceptance into the extensive Hamilton Leaders Academy.

Lundberg is one of 38 students selected for the award, the purpose of which is to recognize high school students for their academic, personal, service and entrepreneurial accomplishments and to select students for the Hamilton Leaders Academy.  Winners are high-achieving, service-oriented, high school juniors with significant financial need.

“This year, the award was very competitive.  We received 609 applications from 48 states.  Winners represented 18 states,” said George T. Cox, Founder and Senior Director of Hamilton Friends. “Our goal is to identify young people who have set high standards for citizenship and success in their lives.  We are very excited about Emily’s potential for future greatness.  The Eastvale Community is lucky to have Emily as a resident,” concluded Cox.

When Emily’s achievements are reviewed, it is easy to see why the judges were so impressed.

Hamilton Friends is named for Alexander Hamilton, one of the most important American founding fathers.  He was born out of wedlock in the West Indies.  When he was 9-years old, his father abandoned the family, leaving young Alexander, his brother, and their mother, Rachel, without a penny.  Hamilton’s mother died only a few years later, when he was 13.  Yet within seven years, and barely out of his teens, he was appointed as an aide to General Washington, and later became the visionary that laid the foundations of America’s current national banking system.

In its first ten years, Hamilton Friends has recognized over 500 young people for superior service and achievement.

“These young people give us tremendous hope.  With proper attitude, support, experiences and inspiration, I have no doubt they will achieve great things in their lives,” said Cox.

For more information about The Alexander Hamilton Friends Association, visit their website at http://www.hamiltonfriends.org.

Eastvale: ERHS Student Named Athlete Of The Year

Jasmyne Graham is California Girls Track & Field Standout

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale
Gatorade Track & Field Champ, Jasmyne Graham

Staff Reports

Eastvale – In its 30th year of honoring the nation’s best high school athletes, The Gatorade Company, in collaboration with USA TODAY High School Sports, recently announced Jasmyne Graham of Eleanor Roosevelt High School as its 2014-15 Gatorade California Girls Track & Field Athlete of the Year. Graham is the first student at ERHS to be selected for this honor.

“Wow. This is big! So excited for Ms. Graham and her family.  Great job to the staff at Roosevelt for keeping her on task both athletically and academically.  Great job!” said Corona-Norco Unified School District Board of Education member, Bill Newberry.

The award – which recognizes not only outstanding athletic excellence, but also high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the track – distinguishes Graham as California’s best high school girls’ track and field athlete. Now a finalist for the prestigious Gatorade National Girls Track & Field Athlete of the Year award, Graham joins an elite alumni association of state award winners in 12 sports, including Allyson Felix, 2001-02, Los Angeles Baptist HS, CA; Derek Jeter, 1991-92, Kalamazoo HS, MI; Candace Parker, 2001-02, Naperville Central HS, IL; Abby Wambach, 1997-98, Our Lady of Mercy HS, NY; Mark Sanchez, 2004-05, Mission Viejo HS, CA; Lolo Jones, 1997-98, Roosevelt HS, IA; and Bianca Knight, 2006-07, Ridgeland HS, MS.

The 5-foot-2 senior won the 100-meter high hurdles with a time of 13.17 seconds and the 300-meter intermediate hurdles in 40.73 at the state meet this past season, leading the Mustangs to fifth place as a team. Her 100- and 300-meter hurdles times at the state meet each ranked as the nation’s number one prep performance in 2015, and among the 15 fastest performances in U.S. prep history at the time of her selection.

Reginald Thompkins, who is an Administrative Director for CNUSD, as well as CIF State President, said, “This is a great accomplishment that the Eastvale community can be proud of.  It really is a huge recognition for Jasmyne.  It’s one of my duties as President to hand out the awards to these awesome athletes; it was very special to be there, witness her performance and give her this award.”

Graham – who is also the Citrus Belt Area Athletic Directors Association Female Athlete of the Year – chipped in by running the opening leg for the eighth-place 4×100-meter relay quartet that finished in 47.54 seconds, as well as the second leg of the ninth-place 4×400-meter relay squad that crossed the line in 3:49.90.

Graham has maintained a 3.14 GPA in the classroom. In addition to donating her time as a running instructor and guest speaker for youth track athletes, she has volunteered on behalf of the Black Coal and Red Roses mentoring program for girls.

“Jasmyne is the most fierce high school competitor I have seen,” said Eleanor Roosevelt coach, Aaron

Photo Courtesy: Reginald Thompkins

Photo Courtesy: Reginald Thompkins
Jasmyne shown with Reginald Thompkins, Administrative Director at CNUSD and CIF State President.

Shires. “Her parents have instilled in her the discipline, desire and commitment to excellence that John Wooden would be proud of in an athlete. The reason Jasmyne can take over a race the way she does is because of her preparation. She attends extra training sessions; she treats her body properly with the right nutrition and sleep. She lives a life that is not just committed to being great at track, but [to] being the best she can be at anything she does.”

Graham has signed a National Letter of Intent to compete in track and field on a scholarship at the University of Southern California this fall.

The Gatorade Player of the Year program annually recognizes one winner in the District of Columbia and each of the 50 states that sanction high school football, girls volleyball, boys and girls cross country, boys and girls basketball, boys and girls soccer, baseball, softball, and boys and girls track and field – and awards one National Player of the Year in each sport. The selection process is administered by the Gatorade high school sports leadership team in partnership with USA TODAY High School Sports, working with top sport-specific experts and a media advisory board of accomplished, veteran prep sports journalists to determine the state winners in each sport.

For more on the Gatorade Player of the Year program, including nomination information, complete lists of past winners, and the announcement of the Gatorade National Player of the Year, visit www.gatorade.com/poy.

Eastvale: School Is In Session

Ronald Reagan Elementary Opens July 6

Photo Courtesy: K.P. Sander

Photo Courtesy: K.P. Sander

By K.P. Sander

Eastvale – On Tues., June 23, Ronald Reagan Elementary School opened its doors to citizens of Eastvale with an invitation to tour the nearly completed facility and gain a glimpse of what many students in the City’s southwest quadrant would be able to enjoy in just a few weeks time.

Located at 8300 Fieldmaster Street (off Archibald Avenue), Reagan Elementary has technically driven, state-of-the-art classrooms, a beautiful library central to the interior of the school, a bright multi-purpose room complete with stage, and spacious outdoor areas with enticing playground equipment.

Tracks A, C and D in the Corona-Norco Unified School District began the new school year on July 6, and the beautiful, brand new school has much to offer the lucky students who get to enjoy their fresh and innovative surroundings.

While the official Ribbon Cutting ceremony won’t take place until late August, Reagan Elementary is officially open for business.  The much needed addition to the CNUSD family will take some of the over-crowding pressure off nearby schools in Eastvale.

And, of course, there is nothing like starting a brand new school year, in a brand new school.  Just think of the possibilities!

ERHS Standout Named Gatorade California Girls Track & Field Athlete Of The Year

Courtesy of the City of Eastvale

 

CHICAGO — In its 30th year of honoring the nation’s best high school athletes, The Gatorade Company, in collaboration with USA TODAY High School Sports, today announced Jasmyne Graham of Eleanor Roosevelt High School as its 2014-15 Gatorade California Girls Track & Field Athlete of the Year. Graham is the first Gatorade California Girls Track & Field Athlete of the Year to be chosen from Eleanor Roosevelt High School.

The award, which recognizes not only outstanding athletic excellence, but also high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the track, distinguishes Graham as California’s best high school girls track & field athlete. Now a finalist for the prestigious Gatorade National Girls Track & Field Athlete of the Year award to be announced in June, Graham joins an elite alumni association of state award-winners in 12 sports, including Allyson Felix (2001-02, Los Angeles Baptist, Calif.), Derek Jeter (1991-92, Kalamazoo HS, Mich.), Candace Parker (2001-02, Naperville Central HS, Ill.), Abby Wambach (1997-98, Our Lady of Mercy, N.Y.), Mark Sanchez (2004-05, Mission Viejo HS, Calif.), Lolo Jones (1997-98, Roosevelt HS, Ia.) and Bianca Knight (2006-07, Ridgeland HS, Miss.).

The 5-foot-2 senior won the 100-meter high hurdles with a time of 13.17 seconds and the 300-meter intermediate hurdles in 40.73 at the state meet this past season, leading the Mustangs to fifth place as a team. Her 100- and 300-meter hurdles times at the state meet each ranked as the nation’s No. 1 prep performance in 2015 and amongst the 15 fastest performances in U.S. prep history at the time of her selection. Also the Citrus Belt Area Athletic Directors Association Female Athlete of the Year, Graham chipped in by running the opening leg for the eighth-place 4×100-meter relay quartet that finished in 47.54 seconds as well as the second leg of the ninth-place 4×400-meter relay squad that crossed the line in 3:49.90.

Graham has maintained a 3.14 GPA in the classroom. In addition to donating her time as a running instructor and guest speaker for youth track athletes, she has volunteered on behalf of the Black Coal and Red Roses mentoring program for girls.

“Jasmyne is the most fierce high school competitor I have seen,” said Eleanor Roosevelt coach Aaron Shires. “Her parents have instilled in her the discipline, desire and commitment to excellence that John Wooden would be proud of in an athlete. The reason Jasmyne can take over a race the way she does is because of her preparation. She attends extra training sessions; she treats her body properly with the right nutrition and sleep. She lives a life that is not just committed to being great at track, but (to) being the best she can be at anything she does.”

Graham has signed a National Letter of Intent to compete in track and field on scholarship at the University of Southern California this fall.

The Gatorade Player of the Year program annually recognizes one winner in the District of Columbia and each of the 50 states that sanction high school football, girls volleyball, boys and girls cross country, boys and girls basketball, boys and girls soccer, baseball, softball, and boys and girls track & field, and awards one National Player of the Year in each sport. The selection process is administered by the Gatorade high school sports leadership team in partnership with USA TODAY High School Sports, which work with top sport-specific experts and a media advisory board of accomplished, veteran prep sports journalists to determine the state winners in each sport.

Graham joins recent Gatorade California Girls Track & Field Athletes of the Year Ariana Washington (2013-14, Long Beach Poly High School), Sasha Wallace (2012-13 & 2011-12, Castro Valley High School), Amy Weissenbach (2010–11, Harvard-Westlake School), Ashton Purvis (2009-10, Saint Elizabeth), Anna Jelmini (2008–09, Shafter), Christine Babcock (2007-08, Woodbridge), and Tori Anthony (2006-07, Castilleja School) among the state’s list of former award winners.

To keep up to date on the latest happenings, become a fan of Gatorade Player of the Year on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. For more on the Gatorade Player of the Year program, including nomination information, a complete list of past winners and the announcement of the Gatorade National Player of the Year, visit www.gatorade.com/poy.

Eastvale’s “Dr. D” Is CNUSD Principal Of The Year

Photo courtesy: CNUSD Principal of the Year, Trevor Dietrich

Photo courtesy: CNUSD
Principal of the Year, Trevor Dietrich

By K.P. Sander

Eastvale – At a Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD) event held on Tues., May 7, Trevor Dietrich, Ed.D, was named Principal of the Year.  Dr. Dietrich is the Principal at McKinley Elementary in Corona.

“Principal of the Year” is an Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) award, and those in consideration must demonstrate exemplary performance in criteria for exceptional leadership in managing school programs, strong support of school management teams, and commitment to educational quality and student achievement (and much more).

Each year ACSA sends out ballots with the names of those who are eligible in multiple categories, and administrators vote for who they think are deserving of the awards.

Says Dietrich, “Every year I try and take the process seriously and vote for who is doing a good job.”

Obviously Dietrich’s peers thought the same thing when they nominated him.

“Dr. D,” as he is fondly called by his students, has been with CNUSD for 15 years.  He began as a 5th Grade teacher at John Adams Elementary in Corona, and in 2009 became principal of that school.

Evita Tapia, Public Information Officer for CNUSD says about Dietrich, “He is the perfect fit to be an elementary school principal, with his high energy and amiable personality.”

Two years ago, the District moved Dietrich to William McKinley Elementary to implement some of the successes he had realized at John Adams.

In Dietrich’s tenure, McKinley is definitely enjoying some success.  McKinley is the first in the Inland Empire to become a “Leader in Me” site, a whole-school transformational process that teaches students how to be leaders of themselves, and how to work with other people using the soft skills of the 21st century (focusing on Franklin Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People).

Implemented in over 2,000 schools worldwide, the Leader in Me process has schools consistently reporting an increase in students’ self-confidence, teamwork, initiative, creativity, leadership, problem solving, communication, diversity awareness and self-directed learning – as well as dramatic decreases in disciplinary issues (according to the Leader in Me website).

“What’s great is that the Leader in Me program has bonded the staff at McKinley; it’s given us something to be proud of.  And, its turning heads, making other schools notice us,” says Dietrich.  “Other District schools are now in the process of becoming Leader in Me schools because of what we are doing.”

Surprised that he won the award, Dietrich says, “It’s validating for what is happening at McKinley.  I’m the one getting the recognition, but it’s all about what the team is doing.”

In fact, Dietrich’s team was just notified that they are receiving the Models of Academic Excellence and Innovation award from the Riverside County Office of Education; and they are one of CNUSD’s three nominations for the California Golden Bell award, a prestigious recognition from the California School Board Association.

“Individuals are getting recognized, but it is all because of what’s happening in the totality of the Leader in Me process,” says Dietrich.  “Parents are recognizing that what we are doing is much more impactful for the whole child in preparing them for the future.”

When asked what his biggest hope for McKinley is, Dietrich says, “Our WIG (Wildly Important Goal) is

Photo Courtesy: Dietrich Family (L-R) The Dietrich Family, Emma, Sarah, Luke, Trevor and Justin

Photo Courtesy: Dietrich Family
(L-R) The Dietrich Family, Emma, Sarah, Luke, Trevor and Justin

to become a Lighthouse School by the end of next year.  To become a Lighthouse School means you have checked off every box and have done all the things that you can do to ensure that the leadership theme has been built into the culture.  If the principal leaves, the program doesn’t.  My hope is that what we are doing with the Leader in Me program is so impactful that eventually it has nothing to do with me – but it has everything to do with McKinley and what they are doing.”

Dietrich holds a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and Master’s degree in Curriculum Instruction from Concordia University, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Administration from La Sierra University.  He and his wife, Sarah, have three children:  Emma, Justin and Luke.  He is active in his church, extremely handy around the house, and enjoys sports – as an avid St. Louis Cardinals and San Diego Chargers fan; he also enjoys the Lakers (“Just not lately,” he says).  “Dr. D” also teaches leadership classes at Concordia University.  The Dietrich family lives in Eastvale.

Senior Award Night

Photo Courtesy: Karmen Chavez-Sam Back Row: Uriel Neis, Alex Tung, Nival Patel, Principal Goins; Front Row: Erica Chau, Valerie Kwee, Vivienne Le, and Karmen Chavez-Sam

Photo Courtesy: Karmen Chavez-Sam
Back Row: Uriel Neis, Alex Tung, Nival Patel, Principal Goins; Front Row: Erica Chau, Valerie Kwee, Vivienne Le, and Karmen Chavez-Sam

By Emily Aguilar

Eastvale – After four years of grueling work in studying, sports, and being active in prestigious clubs, ERHS Seniors were finally recognized on Senior Award Night. The event was held on Thurs., May 14, at 6:30 p.m.

Behind the stage, numerous students were cheering one another on; most of the award recipients were life-long friends.  The atmosphere was filled with love as students took selfies and congratulated one another on their awards.

While the award ceremony rewarded students with certificates for being in nationally acclaimed clubs such as CSF and NHS, or receiving anywhere from $500 to $5,000 in scholarship money, the award ceremony was more of an opportunity for teachers and staff to reflect on how grateful they were to have worked with a plethora of talented students.

There exists a rare group of teachers who rightfully believe their students will influence the rest of the world. Thankfully, these teachers can be found at ERHS. As Victor Ruelas, an AP Government teacher, presented the Principal’s Award to Shukan Patel, he began to cry as he swore that Patel’s diligence, brilliant mind, and dedication to politics will one day make him “the next president of this country.”

Patel, who will be attending UCLA as a political science major, was only one of students to be recognized for his brilliance. Future UC Berkeley student, Alex Tung, was showered in scholarship gifts, recognitions, and praise until the night came to a close.

At the end of the ceremony, Valerie Kwee, who had already been given a scholarship for science, was called on stage once more to be declared as the school’s valedictorian. The designation had been a close call with fellow student and friend Alex Tung, and although Kwee was excited to have received the honor, she remains humble about the title.

When asked if she felt relieved to have received the honor, Kwee said “To me, education is a process and it doesn’t just end once you receive a title. I guess you can say being a valedictorian is more exciting than it is relieving.”

Kwee will be attending Harvey Mudd College this fall to study biomedical engineering.

With the awards they have received, and the caring support they have received by peers and fellow friends, ERHS students have nothing less than a bright future ahead of them thanks to the dedicated effort they have put in place for the past four years of high school.

ERHS Student Gates Millennium Scholar

By Tara Lanning

Photo By: Tara Lanning Daliya Ross, Gates Millennium Scholar

Photo By: Tara Lanning
Daliya Ross, Gates Millennium Scholar

Eastvale– Daliyah Ross, a senior at Eleanor Roosevelt High School was recently given a bright, new future.  As the recipient of the prestigious Gates Millennium Scholarship, Ross will enjoy a full ride through her next four years of college.

The Gates Millennium Scholarship Program is funded by a $1.6 billion grant provided by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.  This grant is a 20-year commitment designed to fund the college education of 20,000 high-achieving minority students.  Individuals selected as Gates Scholars will receive funds in an amount determined by the Foundation based on financial need, as well as the cost of tuition, fees, books and living expenses – and other aid received.

For the 2015-16 academic year, 57,000 students applied for the scholarship, but only 1,000 received the award.

ERHS is very proud of Ross, who will be attending Hampton University in Virginia this fall.

ERHS Prom Drama

Photo Courtesy: Bethlehem Michael The 2015 ERHS Prom Court

Photo Courtesy: Bethlehem Michael
The 2015 ERHS Prom Court

By Emily Aguilar

Eastvale – Although many seniors at Eleanor Roosevelt High School have been accepted to their dream schools, earned scholarships, and formed close friendships, there was one thing missing to complete a cherishable memory of their high school experience: a Prom Ticket.

Chaos broke out on the week of Apr. 6, when seniors viciously fought to gain access to their dream night at the Old Ranch Country Club in Seal Beach. Although tickets had gone on sale in early March at the reasonable price of $65, many students decided to wait for the week before spring break to buy their tickets – by which time, the price had increased to $85.

In fact, on the day before spring break, there were less than 100 tickets remaining; and the competition of student vs. student began in the race to go to the Prom.

Starting at 5:40 a.m. on Apr. 6, the line to the Student Store was densely packed with annoyed and impatient students looking to get tickets. The bell had rung for class, but tensions were only beginning to mount. Classes didn’t abate those tensions at all.  Throughout the day, students had apparently snuck out of classes to get to the Student Store. Two hours before school ended, an announcement was made that additional tickets were ordered, and would be put on sale the next day. Unfortunately, the school didn’t order enough tickets, and seniors would not accept the cruel reality.

Even though a waiting list had been issued, enraged seniors and their parents tried to guilt the school into accommodating their anger.  Some criticized the school for not having ordered enough tickets in the first place (ERHS had only ordered 450 tickets, expecting a small number of students to attend); others stated that the school should have organized the Prom at a bigger venue; still another group pitched the idea of having two proms, one for upperclassmen and another for lowerclassmen.  Worst of all, students went so far as to demand that the Student Store force the lowerclassmen to give up their tickets.

In the end, the angry voices were not heard, and some students had to (reluctantly) accept they wouldn’t go to Prom.

Many have viewed this behavior as selfish.  At the age of 17 or 18, it’s immature to act as if the world is ending when one doesn’t get what they want. Then again, pop culture has illustrated Prom Night as the unofficial rite of passage from adolescence to adulthood.

“I think it sucks that everyone [the seniors] won’t go to prom…it means a lot to a lot of people,” stated senior, Derrick White.

Countless seniors sat at home on Prom Night, Apr. 11, disappointed they wouldn’t be able to attend a euphoric evening to epitomize the grace of their temporary youth.

“You’re overreacting and it’s so annoying it amuses me,” joked an anonymous social studies teacher. “Prom is nothing; there are going to be better days in your life. Don’t sweat.”

Nevertheless, the school hopes to make up for the disaster on Grad Night, an event that will be held at Disneyland on June 2.

 

The Give Back Garden

Photo By: Emily Aguilar

Photo By: Emily Aguilar

By Emily Aguilar

Eastvale – Eleanor Roosevelt High School’s philanthropic Give Back Garden has dedicated itself to growing healthy foods to donate to the Corona Norco Rescue Mission. After an unfortunate event that has left the group with devastation, they are now asking for help from local citizens.

Photo By: Emily Aguilar

Photo By: Emily Aguilar

On the week of March 22, club advisor and ERHS biology teacher, Mary Neimeyer, found the greenhouse shattered and the vegetables viciously pulled out and scattered across the field.

“It’s heartbreaking to see this happen to the Garden. We’ve put in so much effort to help others, so this vandalism feels disrespectful to what me and my group want to do for those in need.”

The Give Back Garden group is looking for donations to restore their greenhouse and vegetables. A fundraiser will be held on Fri., May 1, at Yogurt-Licious, located at 6987 Hamner Avenue in Eastvale ((951) 520-0888).  You can also donate directly to Mrs. Neimeyer, who can be contacted at mneimeyer@cnusd.k12.ca.us

ERHS Choir Win

Photo By: Tara Lanning

Photo By: Tara Lanning

ERHS Choir had a very successful experience at their April competition in San Francisco.  The Men’s Ensemble took 1st Place Silver; the Madrigals took 2nd Place Silver; and the Women’s Ensemble took 1st Place Gold!  Congratulations to all the choirs and their amazing director, Esther Mendoza.

C.H.E.E.R.

(Photo By: Clara Steele) The C.H.E.E.R. Leaders pose with Kurt and Brenda Warner, and teacher Jordan Samson

(Photo By: Clara Steele)
The C.H.E.E.R. Leaders pose with Kurt and Brenda Warner, and teacher Jordan Samson

By Tara Lanning

Eastvale – Students at Eleanor Roosevelt High School recently experienced a life changing week. In March, the Best Buddies group helped to orchestrate the C.H.E.E.R. program for the school.

C.H.E.E.R. – an acronym for Consciousness Helps Encourage Equal Respect – invites students to adopt a disability and get a closer look on how people with disabilities are treated.

Each day, a group of students participated in different activities simulating what a disability might be like, including blindness, hearing impairment, or not being able to talk or walk.  One of the highlights of the week was the school-wide signing of the “END THE R WORD” poster.

ERHS ended the week with very special guests, former NFL quarterback, Kurt Warner, and his wife, Brenda, founders of the C.H.E.E.R. program.  Their son, Zach, has a disability, and is the inspiration behind the whole program. The Warner’s became distraught when they noticed their son eating school lunch in the corner with other disabled students in a cafeteria full of laughing, young teenagers. Why wouldn’t the other students invite Zach and the other amazing kids into their groups? They were worth an invitation to a party, so why did they never receive one?

The Warner’s realized how important it was to bring awareness to this issue.  A disability does not define a person. In fact, we all have challenges in life, but we all have talents as well. Kurt and Brenda shared their amazing story and encouraged ERHS students to look at life in a different way. They encouraged the students to walk a mile in someone else’s shoes. They encouraged the students to make a difference in someone’s life and to be the kind of leader who inspires others with their actions and encouragements.

The students learned how to live today to impact tomorrow.  Yes, we are all different, but we are all also the same in the way that we need someone – we all need each other.  No one should ever feel unimportant or unworthy.  That is what C.H.E.E.R. is all about.

ERHS would like to thank Kurt and Brenda Warner for encouraging students to make a difference in the lives around them.