San Diego Unified School District Newsfeed

Board approves 2016-17 academic calendars for all schools

2015-06-10T20:00:00.000-07:00

On June 9, the Board of Education approved the 2016-17 academic calendars for both traditional and year-round schools. The first day of school will be Monday, August 29, 2016. Traditional schools will end on June 14, 2017; year-round schools will end on July 21, 2017. See full year calendars below:

2016-17 Traditional Academic Calendar

2016-17 Year-Round Academic Calendar

For more information, read the June 9, 2015 Board Report.

District's 2015-16 draft Local Control and Accountability Plan Now Available

2015-06-08T10:00:00.000-07:00

The draft of San Diego Unified's 2015-16 Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP) is now available in two versions:

2016–2018 Draft LCAP - a full, 3-year version using the state’s required template

2015–16 User-Friendly Draft LCAP (English) - reader-friendly version of the LCAP that focuses on actions and services for 2015-16
2015–16 LCAP, Versión simplificada (Español)

In addition, a reader-friendly version of the 2014–15 Draft Annual Update is also available.

Theses documents were generated after a year-long process of community engagement that involved numerous presentations to district advisory groups, parent groups, employee groups and others. At each meeting, stakeholders had an opportunity to provide comments and input. For more information about the LCAP, visit http://www.sandi.net/lcap.

The Board of Education had its first reading of the 2015-16 draft at the June 9 meeting and provided comments and feedback to staff. Members of the public may submit input via the online survey. Input and comments received will be considered and adjustments to the LCAP may be made prior to approval by the Board of Education at its meeting on June 23, 2015.

Michael McQuary assumes Sub-district C Board seat

2015-01-13T15:00:00.000-08:00

Attendees and viewers of the district’s Board of Education meetings are seeing a new face on the dais – Dr. Michael McQuary, who began his first term as Sub-district C board representative on Dec. 9.

“We have major challenges, and I’m thrilled to now be part of the conversation at the dais, as well as in the community, meeting with parents, employees and staff,” McQuary said at his swearing-in ceremony. “Let’s do good things for the greater good; for our individual students as well as for our larger communities. I’m here to serve.”

Trustee McQuary brings a broad range of work and life experience to the Board. He has been a teacher at all levels, administrator, and education consultant at the state level. He has been president of his local teachers union and also served as a member of several administrative bargaining teams.

He was a Chapter President of Phi Delta Kappa, an international organization of professional educators, who conduct research and are interested in policy related to education at all levels, especially issues dealing with research-based school reform.

More recently, Dr. McQuary has assisted educational projects supporting students and local schools, such as the Pacific Beach Middle School "Garden to Café" Program, a bullying intervention program, a Peace Pole and a “zone of peace” dedication at the PB Middle School (2014) and PB Elementary School (2015).

Learn more about Trustee McQuary and his vision for San Diego Unified.

Trustee McQuary’s Biography
Watch Trustee McQuary’s Swearing-in Ceremony
SDUSD Subdistrict C: Mike McQuary's resume says it all (SD News.com)

State of the District Address highlights successes, future goals

2014-12-04T07:00:00.000-08:00

View all event photos

Improving educational opportunities for all students, investing in professional development for teachers and laying the groundwork for Restorative Justice practices are just some of the district’s accomplishments highlighted by Board President Kevin Beiser at the annual State of the District Address Monday night at Lewis Middle School.

“We have so much to be proud of in advancing Vision 2020 and demonstrating innovation, equity and excellence in all we do,” Beiser began. “Every one of you in this room is invested in doing what’s best for our students, and you’re helping make sure students aren’t seen as a test score but as the whole child.” (Read President Beiser's Remarks)

More than 200 employees, parents and community members gathered at the event to hear from Superintendent Marten and Board President Beiser about the district’s accomplishments and what’s in store for the coming year.

Superintendent Marten highlighted several areas of focus, including strengthening the outcomes for Latino and African American students and Long-Term English Language learners, growing partnerships with local social services agencies and pursuing equity and adequacy in public education funding.

“We hope our definition of appropriate funding levels will be a model to be used throughout the state,” said Marten. “We do not believe the student-teacher ratio in K-3 should be 25.5 to 1. For an elementary school with 600 students – we believe adequate funding would reduce the ratio to 20 to 1. It should be 16 to 1 in high needs schools.

“As we advance this conversation with the legislature, we will be calling on all of our stakeholders to join this call to action and get California off the bottom of the list in adjusted per-pupil spending and do what’s best for all of California’s kids,” Marten said. (Read Supt. Marten's Remarks)

The event was preceded by a reception catered by the district’s Food Services Department. Entertainment during the reception was provided by Lewis Middle School’s String Orchestra while Patrick Henry High’s Bel Canto Ensemble performed the National Anthem and sang “No Man Is An Island” mid-way through the event. Watch the video

Media Coverage

School officials take stock of district
UT San Diego

State Of The District: Board President Puts San Diego Schools In Positive Light
KPBS San Diego

SDUSD State of the District Address

NBC San Diego

SD Unified School District leaders address top issues
KUSI San Diego

Board President's Scholarship Recipients

2014-11-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

Since 1994, San Diego Unified has presented the Board President’s Scholarship to monthly, classified district employees who are currently enrolled in a college and have a goal of becoming a teacher.

The scholarship award is presented annually by the President of the Board of Education to four monthly classified employees interested in becoming a teacher and who are already enrolled in a college program. Each recipient receives $1,000. Scholarship funds are to be used for tuition, fees or books at any local two- or four-year accredited college or university.

Long-time district Partners-in- Education , California Coast Credit Union and Mission Federal Credit Union, support the scholarships with donations of $2,000 per financial institution.

The 2014 Board President's Scholarship recipients were announced and recognized at the Nov. 18 Board of Education meeting.

Each recipient received a plaque and check for $1,000 from the respective credit unions:

2014 Mission Federal Credit Union Awardees

Vanessa Jackson

Vanessa is currently a special education assistant at Jones Elementary School. Although Vanessa has always wanted to become a teacher, she questioned which grade level and subject to pursue. After working with special needs students during her college internship she had found her calling.

“I am filled with enthusiasm to have the opportunity to concurrently work with special needs children and gain knowledge to become an effective special education teacher," Vanessa stated.

Vanessa’s colleagues describe her as a self-starter who is devoted to her students. She is currently attending National University to earn her Special Education Mild/Moderate teaching credential.

Kadie Shedd

Kadie is a special education assistant at Scripps Ranch High School. Kadie plans to use this scholarship award to continue her education in Arizona State University’s online Bachelor’s program.

“Teaching is not a profession one chooses to be involved in," Kadie said. "It is a calling; a deeply rooted understanding and passion that cannot be learned in a classroom.”

Her colleagues think she has already proven her effectiveness as a teacher and added “she has innate teacher instincts, and she is always finding ways to help give students the extra guidance and motivation the need to meet each day’s objectives.”

2014 California Coast Credit Union Awardees

Cynthia Jackson

Cynthia is a special education technician at ALBA Community Day School. Since beginning her career with the San Diego Unified in 1987, she has held several positions within the Special Education Department helping the students that needed her the most.

“My passion for giving back to the community motivates me to give all that I can to repay the debt of gratitude I owe to the powerful role models from my youth who inspired me to become a teacher, Cynthia stated.

Cynthia’s colleagues describe her as a dedicated professional and an “invaluable asset to all.” She currently attends San Diego City College to earn her Degree in Liberal Arts and African Studies.

Craig M. Williams

Craig has been employed at Silvergate Elementary as a noon duty assistant since 2010 and a science assistant since 2012. He plans to use this scholarship award to complete his education and earn his teaching credential.

Craig believes that with this opportunity he will be able to, “continue to touch the lives of students in my care.”

Craig’s colleagues admire his ability to reach out to students as individuals and take a personal interest in their success. One teacher writes, “He genuinely pays attention to each child and is responsive to individual needs.” Craig believes that with this opportunity he will be able to, “continue to touch the lives of students in my care.”

For more information about the Board President's Scholarship, visit www.sandi.net/board .

Farb Middle Students Shine at Board Meeting

2014-09-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

More than 15 students from the Farb Middle School Advanced Choir sang the National Anthem at the Sept. 23 Board of Education meeting.Watch the video.

The students were joined by the Patrick Henry High Navy JROTC, who presented the colors, to kick off the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and Star Spangled Banner.

The choir was led by teacher Robyn Dye. Farb Principal Courtney Rizzo also attended to support of her students.

The students were invited by Board President Kevin Beiser. Each month, one of the board member selects students from one of their schools to present or perform at a regularly-scheduled Board of Education meeting.

Superintendent Cindy Marten 'exceeds expectations'

2014-07-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

The San Diego Unified Board of Trustees has released Superintendent Cindy Marten's first year evaluation, finding that "Cindy Marten has exceeded our expectations," in a joint statement released by the five-member Board of Trustees.

"Ms Marten has exceeded our high expectations, embracing the board’s Vision 2020 and:
- Has put teaching and learning at the center of the organization
- Excels in her ability to reach out to the community and a broad range of stakeholders
- Manages the larger vision of the district, while being attentive to all levels of operation
- Has brought forth a strong team of leaders who share her passion for improving student achievement for all students.
- Developing strong multi-year budget strategies

Responding to the Board of Education’s evaluation, Ms. Marten said she was "gratified by the Board's confidence," and "excited to continue this important work, alongside extraordinary educators and staff in ensuring we serve the needs of all of our amazing students."

The Board of Education focused its evaluation on four of the indicators for Quality Neighborhood Schools:
- Access to broad and challenging curriculum
- Quality Teaching
- Quality Leadership and
- Professional Learning for all

On the operational side, the key factor was budget development.

The following rubric was used to measure progress in each area:

Beginning – The Superintendent has launched the work and there is no evidence of progress yet.
Developing – The Superintendent has launched the work, is continuing to develop the implementation, and there is some evidence of progress.
Accomplishing – The Superintendent has accomplished the implementation of the work and progress is evident.
Extending – The Superintendent has accomplished the work and significant progress/impact is evident.

The School Board rated each focus area as follows:

Access to broad and challenging curriculum: Accomplishing
Quality Leadership: Extending
Quality Teaching: Developing
Professional Learning for All: Accomplishing
Operations and Budget Development: Extending

Trustees Extend Superintendent Cindy Marten's Contract Another Year

Superintendent Marten's accomplishments to date have reinforced the Board's confidence that her leadership will result in greater success for all students. Therefore, the board has decided to extend her contract for an additional year beyond the original four-year contract.

The Board of Education indicated that, “while many challenges are ahead, we are confident that under the leadership of Cindy Marten, all students will thrive and have the opportunity for success.”

Board approves $1.2 billion operating budget for 2014-15 school year

2014-06-24T00:30:00.000-07:00

Completing her first year as superintendent, the San Diego Unified Board of Trustees unanimously approved Cindy Marten's $1.2 billion "students first" spending plan Tuesday night.

"When the Board hired me last year, my task was to reevaluate every dollar to ensure we are focusing expenditures on proven methods to create quality schools in every neighborhood, improve student achievement and close the achievement gap," said Marten.

At the same time, the Board approved the district's LCAP (Local Control and Accountability Plan). It now goes to the San Diego County Office of Education for final approval. See documents approved»

Despite lingering effects of the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, the 2014-15, $1.2 billion operating budget has no layoffs, reduces class sizes in lower grades, redirects staffing to classrooms, implements Common Core and focuses on English-language learners.

"I have always believed that however much money we have, in both good times and bad, we have a responsibility to improve the quality of education while serving as good stewards and promoting student achievement," she said. "I am confident that we will meet the needs of our students and support our educators and employees, while living within our means."

Facts

No layoffs.
Reduces K-3 class size from current school year from 27:1 to 25:1.
Fully funds the implementation of the Common Core curriculum.
Restores the school calendar to 180 instructional days.
Stabilizes school staffing including improved front office allocations.
Fully funds professional development for educators ensuring the best trained staff for our students.
Transitions "non classroom" support teachers into the classrooms.
Initiates an early retirement plan for approximately 472 educators, resulting in a net savings of approximately $8 million dollars next year.
Supports biliteracy programs and implements Superintendent's English Learner Action Plan for Long-term English learners.
Maintains classroom Gate and Seminar funding.
Ensures open library hours at every elementary school.
Maintains current level of services in arts, athletics, school safety, custodial, nursing and counseling.
Maintains the nationally recognized i21 program, giving students and educators the latest technology.
Maintains graduation coaches.
Implements Transitional Kindergarten at all elementary schools.
Meets contractual salary increases.
Maintains existing level of health benefits for all employees.
Phases out real estate sales to fund budget shortfalls.
Initiates a multi-year real estate strategy to generate new real estate revenues.
Includes approximately $223 million in facility upgrades and expansions in Prop S/Z funds.

Message from Supt. Marten about Vision 2020, upcoming important decisions

2014-04-25T14:30:00.000-07:00

Dear San Diego Unified Community:

In recent months, students, parents,employees, and community members have provided valuable input and feedback in our mission to accomplish our Vision 2020. We have come together to discuss what we believe is working, what we feel should be improved and how we will work together to accomplish the implementation of our vision, all with the common goal of creating quality schools in every neighborhood. We have heard from hundreds of you, our stakeholders, and I personally am appreciative, honored and energized by your commitment to our students and our schools that this input demonstrates.

The feedback collected is now being used to shape the draft of our Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP), our 2014-15 and beyond budget solutions, our legislative priorities and our collective bargaining proposals with employee groups. Several of those proposals will be considered by the Board next week.

The district’s focus in the development of the initial collective bargaining proposals is to continue to implement our Vision 2020, support student learning and propel our path towards quality schools in every neighborhood.

At the Board meeting on April 29, you will have the opportunity to provide further input into the district's initial collective bargaining proposals. (To read the proposals, check the April 29 Agenda, which will be posted at 5 p.m. Friday, April 25.) These negotiations provide an opportunity for the district and the employee organizations to come together in an environment of mutual respect, collegiality, and a focus towards developing a world-class school system for all of our students. We look forward to substantive discussions at the bargaining table with our employee organizations, who we value as important partners in our shared efforts to serve all students.

Sincerely,

Cindy Marten
Superintendent
Work Hard. Be Kind. Dream Big! No Excuses.

Superintendent Marten, Chancellor Carroll look to districts' shared vision

2014-03-17T11:22:00.003-07:00

IN THE NEWS: In a joint television interview, Supt. Cindy Marten and Constance Carroll, San Diego Community College District Chancellor, discuss the upcoming joint board meeting for the two districts and that kindergarten through Community College efforts -- K-14 -- bring together the two systems. Watch video from KUSI»

SD Community College District and San Diego Unified to hold joint meeting

2014-03-16T10:00:00.000-07:00

Governing boards of the two largest education systems in the county will hold a special joint board meeting on March 18 as part of an ongoing effort at better coordinating approaches to issues vital for both the San Diego Community College District (SDCCD) and SanDiego Unified.

This will be the third joint meeting of the two boards. The session is set to start at 5 p.m. in thePerforming Arts Theatre at San Diego Continuing Education’s EducationalCultural Complex, 4343 Ocean View Blvd., in San Diego’s Mountain View community.

The joint meeting builds upon previous joint sessions that took place in 2011 and 2013, and it represents an opportunity for the two organizations to evaluate progress and make additional plans to ensure that students are academically prepared for both higher education and the workforce. The public and community leaders are invited to attend.

Previous meetings have included discussion on aligning academic calendars between the two districts,coordinating curriculum, concurrent enrollment, and expanding the early/middle college high school model in which high school students are provided with extensive preparation for college and can take several courses for college credit. Mesa College is home to the city’s successful MET School.

Among the many items to be discussed at the March 18 meeting are a K-14 Accountability Framework forStudent Success, aligning mathematics and English curriculum with Common Core standards, establishing a connection and articulation between specific K-12areas of study and SDCCD college majors, early childhood education legislation,and Assembly Bill 86, which provides grants to community colleges and secondary school districts in developing regional plans to better serve the educational needs of adults.

A link to the March 18 agenda is available at http://www.boarddocs.com/ca/sdccd/Board.nsf/Public.

Trustee Beiser honored as "Music Legislative Leader of the Year"

2014-02-27T06:00:00.000-08:00

The California Music Educators Association (CMEA) has chosen Kevin Beiser, San Diego Unified School District's Board President, as the 2013 CMEA Legislative Music Leadership awardee. Beiser had earlier received recognition from the San Diego chapter of the CMEA, which nominated him for the statewide award.

"After receiving the local section award for supporting music, the CMEA board of directors unanimously decided to give Kevin Beiser our state-level Legislative award," said CMEA President Russ Sperling. "For music to flourish in our schools, it's critical to have supporters like Kevin on our school boards holding the line for music education. Kevin has been a strong voice advocating that all students have access to a quality education that includes music as an essential."

Beiser fought to protect music funding amid the District's budget crises and worked together with parents and teachers to help organize the community to protect as many of the varied music programs as possible. With his experience as part of school bands during even his earliest elementary school years as well as being a public school Math teacher, Beiser knows the important role music programs play in a well-rounded education.

"I'm honored that my commitment to keeping music programs in our district's schools has been recognized by the CMEA, both locally and throughout the State," Beiser said. "I proudly share this recognition with my fellow Board of Trustees. They voted to protect the funding for music programs as often as possible."

Beiser received his award at the award ceremony held during the California All-State Music Education Conference (CASMEC) in Fresno, California on February 21.

Beiser was elected to the San Diego Unified Board of Trustees in 2010 representing District B. Prior to his election his work with students earned him "San Diego Math Teacher of the Year" honors in 2008-09. In December, 2013, Beiser was selected by his fellow Trustees to be the School District's Board President.

Board president, Encanto teacher honored for environmental work

2014-02-19T06:00:00.000-08:00

School Board President Kevin Beiser and Encanto Elementary School teacher Lynn Howard have honored by the California State Board of Equalization as "Healthy Planet Local Heroes."

The award was given by Betty Yee, State Board of Equalization Member from District #1 to honor local leaders and influencers who have made an impact in creating healthy communities and a healthy planet. Among the other recipients of the award are Interim Mayor Todd Gloria, County Supervisor Dave Roberts, the Del Mar Fairgrounds, Whole Foods Markets, La Vita Compounding Pharmacy, Bastyr University, youth leader Sophia Holbrook, and Max Guinn, Founder of KidsEcoClub.

The awards were presented at a formal gala on Feb. 1 at the Rancho Valencia Resort which included presentations by Dr. Nancy Knowlton, Sant Chair for Marine Science at the Smisthonian's National Museum of Natural History, and Dr. Jeremy Jackson, Yale's Edward P. Bass Distinguished Visiting Environmental Scholar. Proceeds from the event benefitted KidsEcoClub, who partners with educators to bring science, environmental, and leadership programming to K-12 schools in the San Diego Unified School District and across the San Diego region.

Beiser was recognized for his environmental leadership while serving on the school board, most notably the banning of styrofoam lunch trays, the operating of school buses with biofuels, reducing energy use in school facilities, promoting school gardens and locally grown food in school cafeterias, and the passage of a resolution for the closure of the San Onofre nuclear reactors to remain until they are certified safe. The award also noted his "stalwart dedication to the safety and well-being of the students in the San Diego Unified School District," including his contributions to the enactment of the historic anti-bullying program and the expansion of anti-bulling programs.

Howard was recognized for her outstanding leadership, passion, and dedication in her service as a science teacher with the San Diego Unified School District. Howard's focus on global issues that deepen students' understanding of how to build a healthy ecosystem enhanced by biodiversity, and to finding solutions to climate change, have earned her this award. The state also recognized Howard's work with National Geographic in teaching about energy and participating on its Explorer expedition to study arctic bears, and for promoting team work in the learning setting to promote and strengthen multi-cultural interactions. Attendees at the gala took home "seed bombs" of California poppy and native wildflower seeds put together by Howard and her students.

Setting high expectations for all students key to closing achievement gap

2014-01-31T06:00:00.000-08:00

District administrators believe that setting high expectations for all students is an important step in closing the achievement gap, one of Vision 2020's key indicators of a quality school. In an update to the Board of Education, Supt. Marten outlined specific ways this district goal is being implemented – and becoming a reality for our students. Watch video presentation.

Board of Education honors community members for contributions to San Diego kids

2014-01-30T06:00:00.001-08:00

Proclamations from the Board of Education at the Jan. 28 meeting.

The Naruwan Taiko Drumming Group was recognized by President Kevin Beiser and Trustee Scott Barnett. The Naruwan Taiko drumming group has become a part of the Barnard Asian Pacific Language Academy family through their regular performances on the campus.
The 50th anniversary of Pershing Middle School was honored by President Kevin Beiser. Located in the San Carlos neighborhood, Pershing is a high achieving school, with outstanding teachers and staff as well as dedicated parents and families who have gone to the school for generations. Pershing is a STEMM school, focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Music.
The San Diego Chinese Historical Museum was honored by Trustee Scott Barnett. The mission of the museum is “to collect, preserve and share the Chinese American experience and Chinese history, culture and art to educate the diverse community and its visitors.” Museum education and outreach programs offer 12 distinct presentations that are available to local schools and community organizations.
The San Diego-Yantai Friendship Society was honored by Trustee Scott Barnett. The mission of the society is “to foster sister city relationships and understanding through mutually beneficial exchanges between individuals, community groups, organizations, and institutions in San Diego with counterparts in Yantai, China.”
Frank Jao, CEO of Bridegreek Group, Inc., was recognized by Trustee Scott Barnett. Mr. Jao’s continued advocacy for strong education and support of Barnard Asian Pacific Language Academy is appreciated by the San Diego Unified School District.
The Panda Express Panda Cares Program was recognized by Trustee Scott Barnett. They support organizations and schools such as the Barnard Asian Pacific Language Academy that educate children in the areas of at-risk prevention, academics, educational extracurricular activities, and restaurant-trade programs.

San Diego Unified keeps pace in 'Nation's Report Card'

2013-12-18T11:00:00.000-08:00

The latest biennial "Nation's Report Card" released by the US Department of Education shows that the San Diego Unified School District continues to rank near the top of large city school systems across the country.

The National Assessment of Educational Progress reading and math tests administered in 2013 reports that San Diego Unified ranks among the highest performing cities in the nation in fourth- and eighth grade reading and math. The program tests students across the nation and in each state, and it allows the 21 participating cities to compare their results not only to California but to the nation and to other cities outside the state.

Superintendent Cindy Marten indicated that the district received good benchmark data from the assessment that will allow the school district to know where it stands with comparable cities and where reforms will need to focus going forward.

"Our culture of innovation, excellence, and creativity has allowed teachers to concentrate on student achievement, giving San Diego Unified a consistent spot near the top," said Marten. "As we transition to the new Common Core State Standards, our focus is on increasing rigor, pacing, and engagement as we challenge ourselves to come up with new ways to address the persistent achievement gap and achievement in grade 8 math."

In Grade 4 reading, the 2013 score of 218 is up from 2003's score of 208. The national public average this year was 221 with the large-city score at 212. Los Angeles came in at 205 while Fresno students scored 196. Districts topping San Diego Unified nominally were Austin, Texas, and Jefferson County, Ky., 221; Miami-Dade County Fla., 223; Charlotte-Mecklenburg County, N.C., 226; Hillsborough County, Fla., 228. As with mathematics, San Diego scored higher than several cities such as Chicago, Dallas, Houston, and Philadelphia. Houston actually posted a significant decline in 4th grade reading scores on the 2013 assessment.

Grade 8 reading saw San Diego students score at 260 in 2013, up from the 250 in 2003. The 2013 average for large cities was 258, while the national average for public schools was 266. Districts topping San Diego Unified were Jefferson County, Ky., and Austin, Texas, at 261; Charlotte-Mecklenburg County, N.C., 266; Hillsborough County, Fla., 267. San Diego scored higher than cities such as Boston, Chicago, Dallas, and Houston.

In Grade 4 math, San Diego Unified's scores have risen to 241 in 2013 from 226 in 2003--right at the national average and substantially above other large city schools. The comparable Los Angeles score was 228 and Fresno's was 220. Districts with somewhat higher scores than San Diego Unified were: Hillsborough County, Fla., 243; Austin, Texas, 245; and Charlotte-Mecklenburg, N.C., 247. San Diego scored higher than cities such as Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, and New York City.

In Grade 8, math, San Diego's 2013 score of 277 was up from the 264 in 2003. The 2013 average for large cities was 276, while the national average for public schools was 284. Districts topping San Diego Unified were Houston, 280; Boston, 283; Hillsborough County, Fla., 284; Austin, Texas, 285; and Charlotte-Mecklenburg County, N.C., 289. Among California districts, Los Angeles was 205 and Fresno, 196. San Diego out-scored cities such as Atlanta, Chicago, and Philadelphia.

"Over the last decade, the San Diego schools have posted some of the largest academic increases of any city nationwide -- something that is very hard to do given its already high academic achievement compared with other cities," said Michael Casserly, Executive Director of the Council of the Great City Schools. "This is particularly impressive given the frequent leadership transitions, major personnel changes, and significant budget cuts that the school system has experienced over that period. We are enormously optimistic about the reforms that the school system is launching under its new superintendent."

Data on individual schools is not provided by this study. For more information, visit the NAEP/TUDA website at http://www.nationsreportcard.gov.

Board elects Beiser as President, Foster as Vice-President

2013-12-11T15:00:00.000-08:00

San Diego Unified's new Board of Education leadership team are President Kevin Beiser, from District B, and Vice-President Marne Foster, from District E, the Board of Education decided on Tuesday night.

The Board vote was taken at the district governing body's annual meeting, in which officers for the new year are established and other procedural items completed.

"I look forward to working together to continue improving public education with quality schools in every neighborhood," Beiser said shortly after the meeting.

Beiser was elected to the Board of Trustees in 2010 representing District B and is also a math teacher. Prior to his election, Beiser’s work with his students earned him “San Diego Math Teacher of the Year” honors in 2008-2009.

“My experience in the classroom, working side-by-side with school administrators and parents alike, has given me a unique insight as to how the policies that are developed by the Board and the superintendent’s office affect those of us on the front lines,” Beiser said. “I’m honored that my Board colleagues found that experience helpful and I look forward to working with Superintendent Marten to continue creating a world-class classroom experience for our students.”

Beiser had served as Board Vice President for one year and hands that position over to San Diego native Marne Foster, who represents District E.

“I'm excited!” said Foster. “I look forward to continuing this work to create the conditions where ALL students can succeed, and value the listening and collaborating with San Diego Unified internal and external stakeholders to make it happen."

Board approves plan to spend $2.8B on schools

2013-12-10T11:00:00.000-08:00

IN THE NEWS: The Board of Education has updated its two-year plan for implementing future projects under a voter-approved $2.8 billion general obligation bonds. Read more from Fox 5 San Diego»

Encanto Elementary dedicates new classroom building

2013-12-06T17:00:00.000-08:00

Marne Foster, Board of Education trustee and Encanto Elementary School alumnus, Debra Baker, Encanto ES principal; and Lee Dulgeroff, executive director of the district's Facilities Planning and Construction division, joined students, parents, community members, school partners, project partners, and other alumni to celebrate the Nov. 15 dedication of the school's new two-story classroom building.

This classroom project included the addition of a new 16,768-square-foot, two-story classroom building on the Encanto campus. The new Building 100 includes 12 classrooms, one multipurpose (art/science) classroom, a Special Education room, an elevator and sky bridge connecting to Building 200, plus educational support rooms for grades three through five. The project also included a new ramp to the playground from the new building and code- compliant upgrades to the railings on the upper levels of the buildings 200 and 300, as well as electrical upgrades.

Construction began during summer 2012 and was completed in fall 2013. The two-story classroom project represents an investment of nearly $6 million into Encanto Elementary School and the community of Encanto. The project was funded by Proposition S, the 2008 bond measure passed by voters to repair, renovate and revitalize schools for the children of San Diego.

For more details on bond projects at Encanto Elementary School, visit https://fpcprojects.sandi.net/Pages/default.aspx. For information on Prop. S, visit www.sandi.net/Facilities, e-mail SDUSDFacilitiesInfo@sandi.net or call 619-637-3604.

Martin-Zimmerman Dialogues address tough social issues

2013-12-06T15:47:00.002-08:00

In an effort to drive further discussion about race relations in our schools and in the community, San Diego Unified recently hosted the Trayvon Martin-George Zimmerman Dialogues at the Ed Center.

View Video

Although the famous court case may have been the impetus for holding the dialogues, the conversation focused less on the case itself and more on the issue of racism and how changing attitudes and creating a more tolerant society starts with education.

“This is not so much about George Zimmerman or Trayvon Martin as it is about giving students the tools they need to address the issues we face right here in our own community,” Agin Shaheed, chief of the district’s race, human relations and advocacy office told UT San Diego.

The district hopes this event will serve as the launching point for middle and high school students to engage in similar conversations and learn how to address these types of issues in a productive manner at school and in the community.

Organized by the Office of Race Human Relations and Advocacy, the event featured a panel of local experts offering a variety of perspectives. Most all agreed that racial and ethnic bias continues to divide our schools, our communities and our nation.

Panelists Dr. Alberto Ochoa and Dr. John Robert Brown

The event’s distinguished panelists included: Dr. Alberto Ochoa, San Diego State University; Chief Rueben Littlejohn, San Diego Unified School Police Department; Danell Scarborough, City of San Diego Human Relations Commission; Dr. Joe Fulcher, San Diego Unified School District Chief of Student Services; Dr. John Robert Brown, retired district administrator, author, and education consultant; Lynn Sharpe-Underwood, City of San Diego Commission on Gang Prevention and Intervention; Prof. Jesse Mills, University of San Diego; Tina Malka, Anti-Defamation League; Salimisha Logan, NAACP; LaShae Collins from Assemblymember Shirley Weber’s office; Lee Muhammad, parent representative and Program Coordinator at the Multicultural Counseling and Consulting Center; Al Abdallah, Chairperson of the San Diego Urban League Board; and student representative Michaela Valk, SCPA ASB president.

For more information about the dialogues, contact the district’s Office of Race Human Relations and Advocacy at 858-490-8678.

Board Vice President, Superintendent help "Race for the Cure"

2013-11-14T11:00:00.000-08:00

Supt. Cindy Marten and Board of Education Vice President Kevin Beiser joined more than 12,000 people who participated in the Race for the Cure 5K run and walk held Nov. 3 in Balboa Park. The event raised more than $1.1 million for breast cancer health education, screenings and research.

The Race for the Cure supports the Susan G. Komen for the Cure organization that raises significant funds and awareness for the breast cancer movement. The effectiveness of Komen San Diego’s mission is entirely dependent on our network of sponsors and volunteers. Money raised by Race participants helps expand access to lifesaving screening and treatment while providing funding for cutting-edge breast cancer research.

For the past twenty years, Komen San Diego has provided tens of thousands of low-income women access to critical breast cancer screening and treatment. Our 360-degree approach is making a difference, with breast cancer mortality rates down and five-year survival rates up.

Komen supports survivors by removing barriers to lifesaving care while also investing in cutting-edge research. Every major advance in global breast cancer research in the last quarter century has been touched by Komen for the Cure dollars.

Interim Mayor Todd Gloria is first Hall of Fame inductee

2013-11-13T06:00:00.000-08:00

San Diego's Interim Mayor Todd Gloria has been named as the first inductee into the San Diego Unified School District Hall of Fame.

The Hall of Fame highlights alumni of San Diego Unified schools who have made a significant impact on society, or have overcome adversity to succeed. This could be a graduate who is a stay-at-home parent who helps his or her kids and community; a graduate who excels in a professional or athletic setting; one that makes a difference in his/her community; or even one that has attained national or international fame.

City Council Member from District Three, Gloria is a Madison High School graduate, also attending Hawthorne Elementary School. He received a degree from the University of San Diego. He is not only a native San Diegan but a member of the Tlingit Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska. He was interested in politics from childhood; at age 10 he was runner-up in a "mayor for a day" contest and at 14 he volunteered to work for Democratic candidates in the 1992 election.

Gloria was honored during the October 28 State of the District address.

"My name is Todd Gloria. I'm the mayor of San Diego and I'm a proud product of the San Diego Unified School District," he told the audience. "I want to thank this school district, the teachers at Hawthorne Elementary, at Madison High School, for giving me the skills and tools I use every single day to run the eighth largest city in this country.

"That is what this school district can do."

If you would like to nominate an individual for future consideration, please complete the nomination form and submit to: District Relations, San Diego Unified School District, Room 2232, San Diego Unified School District, 4100 Normal St. (92103); fax, 619-725-7105; school mail; or email to communications@sandi.net

Supt. Marten: Be Kind - Kindness Matters

2013-11-08T16:32:00.003-08:00

More than ever, kindness matters. The way we treat each other is important. This is the message I shared at the Oct. 29 State of the District Event.

It's important when we think about creating a quality school that we have an eye toward how we treat each other as human beings. Could you imagine if it was 'No Child Left Unkind?

I hope you will watch the video, take my words to heart and convert to actions.

Superintendent, Board President chart course for future, honor graduates

2013-10-30T14:00:00.000-07:00

San Diego Unified has all the parts to create America's best school system, Superintendent Cindy Marten said at the 2013 State of the District ceremony Tuesday evening.

Hall of Fame inductee
Joe Schloss, left, with
Board of Education
Member Richard Barrera.

"I see a future where we keep our promise to children," she told an audience of nearly 400. "I can tell you that we have, right here in our backyard, exactly what it takes to build the best school system in the nation."

Opening the program, Dr. John Lee Evans, President of the Board of Education, said that the focus of the meeting was on Vision 2020, the Board of Education's roadmap for the future, but that we also needed to look to the past.

"All five of us are products of public education in schools across the country," Evans said of the district's Board of Education members. "We owe a debt of gratitude to our parents’ generation. They believed in public education. We believe that every student in San Diego Unified today should be provided the same opportunities to succeed that the five of us had."

Supt. Marten and President Evans also introduced the first members of the San Diego Unified School District Hall of Fame. San Diego City Council Member Todd Gloria (interim mayor in 2013-14) was introduced as the first member of the Hall of Fame, which will recognize graduates of San Diego Unified School District schools.. Go to Hall of Fame web page. Download Hall of Fame photo (4.2 mb)

Watch video of ceremony»

One of the highlights of the program was the performance and participation of students. Students participants included:

Chamber Bravura, Marshall Middle and Scripps Ranch High schools
Kearny High School Army JROTC, led by Col. Tim Swann
Kearny High School ASB students
Hoover High School Band; Christopher Mena, director
Cheerleaders from Serra, Lincoln and Kearny high schools

News Coverage

Board salutes Filipino American History, Native American Heritage

2013-10-24T14:00:00.000-07:00

The Board of Education has proclaimed October as Filipino History Month and November is Native American Heritage Month.

Many classes around the San Diego Unified School District will use these months as an incentive to focus on Filipino History and Native American Heritage.

For October's designation of Filipino American History Month, Subdistrict E Trustee Marne Foster noted that the local chapter of the Filipino American National Historical Society is a very active educational group in San Diego.

"The Filipino American community in San Diego County is the largest Asian American group in the county," she wrote to Trustees, also noting that there are more than 3 million people in the United States of Filipino heritage.

In his message to the Board of Education, Subdistrict D Trustee Richard Barrera said that Native Americans have a rich and important heritage in the United States and that there are many students of Native American heritage at San Diego Unified.

"The contributions of Native American Indians to this nation’s government, history, and culture are as numerous and varied as the tribes themselves," Barrera wrote, "and the President authorized and requested to call upon federal, state, and local governments, groups and organizations and the people of the United States to observe such month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities."

Download copies of the proclamations (PDF)