`App`lication of Coding Skills

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leb
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an
V
allivue REVIEW
Winter/Spring 2015
Biannual Newsletter of the
Vallivue School District
‘App’lication of Coding Skills
High School Engineering Team Wins Best App in State
The goal of the 2015 Verizon Innovative App
Challenge is to “increase student interest and
knowledge in STEM subjects and mobile technology through an engaging and empowering learning experience.” Four teams of innovative students
from Vallivue High School’s Engineering class
stepped up to take on the challenge to develop a
computer application, or app, that would solve a
problem or help the community. The challenge
also required students produce a descriptive video
(viewable with QR code above) and write an essay
justifying the reasons the app is needed.
A team from Vallivue High School won the Best
in State award with their app named MyIrrigation.
Below is the summary the winning team members
Pablo Garza, Nick Hamilton, Precious Kenney,
Ethan Leavitt, Henry Miller and Thomas Stephan
produced using collaborative writing techniques.
The engineering class from Vallivue High School,
created an App called MyIrrigation. Here in Caldwell,
Idaho, farming plays a major role in the community.
A big portion of our economy comes from agriculture. Farmers rely on water to help their crops grow
and flourish. The problem with water is that it is not
so easily accessible. There is an irrigation system that
must be regulated so our water reservoirs are not
emptied out. This happens very easily in Idaho because of the dry climate. Farmers can request water,
but they must submit it through a ditch rider.
Often this process takes a while and is a hassle.
Currently, farmers and ditch riders manually enter
in the irrigation schedules with pen and paper. With
our app, we hope to make the process digitalized. Our
farmers would greatly benefit from a more simple
route to request water as long as they are willing to
use their smart phones and tablets.
One issue with requesting water is a farmer can
only obtain the availability by contacting the ditch
rider. Going along with the purpose of apps, it would
be much simpler if they [farmers] could do this
quickly on their smart phones. Our app, MyIrrigation, will allow users to access the schedule for water
rights and will allow them to request water on open
times. This way farmers can completely skip having
to request through a ditch rider and instantly get the
water they need.
The goal of this app is to conserve energy and resources spent in the process of changing water. This
will save a lot of time for both the farmer and the
ditch rider, as well as conserve a natural resource by
using the water more efficiently.”
The goal of the Engineering course is for students
to tackle real world-problems within the community and be exposed to problem solving techniques
to help them in their post-secondary education
and career paths. The other app ideas that students
developed were first aid and wilderness survival, a
choose-your-own-adventure app that encourages
elementary students to make healthy decisions and
an app that helps students with math and science
homework.
Along with the app challenge, students in the
course have been getting hands-on experience by
building cardboard kayaks to race down Indian
Creek, designing and testing robots, working with
NNU’s professor, Dale Hamilton and the computer science department to collect and analyze data
from Aerial Drones, and developing composite
construction materials that were tested at Boise
State University’s Material Science lab.
◄ Yep, There’s an App for That
Vallivue High School’s
Engineering students work
collaboratively to solve realworld engineering problems.
Vallivue’s winning team from
the Verizon Innovative App
Challenge proudly shows-off
the Best-in-State award they
earned for developing the
MyIrrigation app.
Coding with AppInventor
Student Led Robotics Competition at Vallivue HS
Real time App Testing
(L-R) Front row: Ethan Leavitt,
Precious Kenney, Pablo Garza
Back row: Thomas Stephan,
Nick Hamilton, Henry Miller
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Vallivue Review
Winter/Spring 2015
A Message from the
Superintendent
Thank You Vallivue Parents and Patrons!
Dear Vallivue Parents
and Members of Our Community,
The main theme of this issue of the
Vallivue Review is STEM Education—
an acronym for Science, Technology,
Engineering, and Math. First, however,
I want to take a moment to thank the
Vallivue School District parents and
patrons for their tremendous support
of the recent bond levy. As always, the
Vallivue community has stepped up to
keep the school district strong. The $28
million bond will provide for a muchneeded additional elementary school
in the district, remodeling of West
Canyon and East Canyon elementary
schools, property purchases for future
schools, and completion of the professional-technical/agriculture building at
the new Ridgevue High School.
STEM programs benefitted from
the passage of the bond. Professionaltechnical programs such as agriculture
education, woodworking, and drafting
are part of STEM. These programs have
been around for a long time in the Vallivue School District, but they are also
changing as technology changes, and
are a very successful part of the movement to increase STEM Education not
only in Idaho, but across America. We
in Vallivue are increasing our focus on
these areas not only because the skills
and knowledge in each discipline are
essential for student success, but also
because these fields are intertwined in
the real world of our lives in Idaho and
in how students learn most effectively.
This approach to education is designed to revolutionize the teaching of
subject areas such as mathematics and
science by incorporating technology
and engineering into regular curriculum. STEM Education also attempts to
transform the traditional teacher-centered classroom by encouraging a curriculum that is driven by problem-solving, discovery, exploratory learning,
and requires students to actively engage
a situation in order to find its solution. We have already been doing this
in Vallivue for the past several years as
we have implemented a problem-solving approach at every level, including
the new math program at the elementary level, robotics at the middle level,
and robotics and pre-engineering at
the high school. Next year, the district
plans to offer new classes in computer
technology, which will include work in
computer coding and programming.
We feel that all Vallivue students
will benefit from expanding the STEM
program because it teaches independent innovation and allows students to explore greater depths of all
of the subjects by utilizing the skills
learned. Nowadays, all jobs are requiring workers to have a greater ability
to think critically, work as a member
of a team, work independently, and
leave high school prepared to compete
in a global society. We want to ensure
our parents and patrons that Vallivue
graduates will be prepared to compete
and will be more than up to that task.
Pat Charlton, PhD
Superintendent of Schools
Saluting Dedicated Service
A History of Service is
Demonstrated Through the
Work of the Board of Trustees
One of the cornerstones of a
free society is the people’s control
of public education, which is exercised through a district’s Board
of Trustees. A board’s function is
decision-making and hearing the
sentiments of the public that assists in making those decisions.
The important role of the board of
trustees includes:
• exercising leadership and
drafting policies for operating
the schools
• employing and evaluating the
Superintendent
• authorizing the appointment
of teachers and other staff
• determining educational goals
and objectives
• authorizing curriculum development and revision
• securing funding (such as
through levy, bond, and
facilities elections) for school
operational needs, building
programs, and authorizing
specific expenditures
• expressing and representing
the views of the community in
matters affecting education
• interpreting the educational
program and needs to the
community
Vallivue has greatly benefited
from a rich history of loyal, concerned, and dedicated citizens
who freely commit their time and
energy in steering the school district toward its goals. We salute the
past and present board members
and thank them for their service to
our community.
Name
Zone 1
Glen Burton
Bruce Bartlett
Bob Willcuts John Miller
Nadine Maggard
Marcia Whittig
Nadine Maggard
Ellen Batt
Dave Christensen
Jeff Forsberg
Zone 2
Otto Schild
Marlin Paine John Frerichs
Charles McHugh
Mike Lehman
Gail LeBow
Loretta Beecher
Patricia Woodbury
Carolyn Hamann
Zone 3
Jim Nafsinger
Leroy Falen
Purvis Starr
Jim Mertz
Roger Williamson
Jennifer Barrus
Bob Brady
Toni Belknap Brinegar
Zone 4
Wayne Draper
Dwayne Skogsberg
Robert Clark
Don Newbill
Archie Yamamoto
Bill Clayton
Cheryl Andre
Stephen Woodard
Vickie McCuistion
Janelle Bogan
Jeff Hon
Zone 5
Leonard Wagers
John Waite Bob Stiehl David Hanks
John Owen David Redfield
Arvid Salisbury
Brian Patterson
Reid Stephan
Years in Service
1962
1962 - 76
1976 - 79
1979 - 80
1980 - 8I
198 I - 82
1982 - 88
1988 - 97
1997 - 2009
2009 - present
1962 - 64
1964 - 73
1973 - 79
1979 - 82
1982 - 85
1985 - 88
1988 - 91
1991 - 2000
2000 - present
1962 - 71
1971 - 78
1979 - 85
1985 - 89
1989 - 98
1998 - 2011
2011 - 12
2012 - present
1962 - 63
1963 - 64
1964 - 66
1966 - 69
1969 - 81
1981 - 83
1983 - 93
1993 - 02
2002 - 04
2004 - 08
2008 - present
1962 - 74
1974 - 76
1977 - 80
1980 - 92
1992 - 98
1998 - 2002
2002 - 07
2007 - 11
2011 - present
Winter/Spring 2015
Vallivue Review
Infinite Campus Portal
A Bridge for Communication between School and Home
Vallivue School District wants their parents
and students to have the most current information regarding academic progress and attendance
information without being surprised. Infinite
Campus provides a Portal for parents and students to bridge the communication gap between
school and home. Parents and students will have
real-time access to information as it is entered by
teachers, counselors, and staff. This integrated
solution lets parents and students access important information quickly so the educational process is easier to monitor and eliminates surprises.
Some of the information that can be accessed in
the Campus Portal includes attendance, calendar
of assignments, in-progress grades, individual assignments with grades, assessment data, and reports such as missing assignments, report cards,
even transcripts. Since parents and students will
be able to access so much information digitally,
the costs for printing and mailing will be reduced.
The Portal minimizes lost school-to-home communications and is the best resource for users to
keep current on academic performance.
How do you do this? First step is to get access to
the Portal. Parents need to fill out a request for Portal access. The form can be found at this address:
http://sites.vallivue.org/campus
Users can also simply go the vallivue.org website and find the Infinite Campus Portal link under the Parents section. Within two business days
of filling out your request, you will receive an activation code. Go back to the Portal link and click
on the Portal Login tab to create your account. If
you need help, there is a tutorial available on the
Information tab.
Helpful and easy-to-use features found in the
Campus Portal include four different language options including: English, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, and Traditional Chinese. Also included is a
Mobile Portal for Android and iOS devices. The
Support tab is quite helpful and user friendly. User
help is located at the Infinite Campus Portal link:
(http://sites.vallivue.org/campus) should you require any assistance.
Vallivue School District continually strives to
keep the lines of communication open. Infinite
Campus is a convenient way to check in. Parents
and students should be aware of real-time data
pertaining to academics and attendance. A fantastic way to access up-to-date information is to
be a frequent user of the Campus Portal.
Ridgevue High School Progress Report
Summary of major construction components:
Bird’s Eye ‘Vue’ ►
Construction on
Ridgevue High
School, the district’s
second high school,
is making steady
progress. This aerial
shot is a view from
the southwest of the
main building and
classroom wing.
Ridgevue High School will accommodate
up to 1,800 students upon its completion. The
school mascot, the Warhawks, and the school
colors-burnt orange, black and white-were revealed last year in preparation for the opening
which is set for the fall of 2016.
Dr. Julie Yamamoto, who is currently serving in the district as an assistant principal at
Vallivue High School, was recently selected
to lead the Warhawks in their educational
mission as the principal of Ridgevue High
School.
•Sewer work continues on Madison.
•Site and landscape contractors continue to work
on grading and irrigation now that the Miller Lateral
has been relocated.
•Next round of cement amending is complete.
•Exterior framing and sheathing continues to progressing and structure. Masonry veneer is underway on the east elevation.
•Structural masonry on main building is nearly
complete with exception to the north and west entrances.
•Steel is completed at the gym floor decks and
good progress continues in the fine arts area.
•Upper slabs have been placed at the auxiliary
gyms and slabs on grade continue.
•The roofing continues to progress. Classroom
wing is nearly dried in.
•HVAC, plumbing, and electrical rough-ins continue
in the classroom wing.
•Drywall has commenced and the work should be
complete soon in Area B.
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4
Vallivue Review
Winter/Spring 2015
Well-Rounded Education
West Canyon Students
Observe, Plan, Design,
Create, Construct ...
and Give
Students at West Canyon are receiving a wellrounded education. They are experiencing a wider
arena of learning through many hands-on Science,
Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) activities as well as service projects that help better
our community. Students are excited to share what
21st century learning looks like in their classrooms.
Most find that sharing and giving a little bit of their
hearts to someone else is what matters most.
Second graders in Mrs. Morton’s reading enrichment class planted seeds in plastic baggies with wet
paper towels as a science experiment. They wrote
daily observations describing how their seeds were
growing and changing, and were excited to watch
the biological wonder happen before their eyes.
On day one of observation, after the seeds had
been planted for three days, a student named Isaac
wrote, “My radish has a fuzzy root. The radish has
a red stem. It also has 3 leaves.”
All teachers integrate technology such as iPads,
interactive white boards and Internet resources to
enrich their instruction. Ms. Larson, a third grade
teacher, described her use of technology, saying,
“It’s a ‘whole-child’ way of teaching—students get
to be creatively, technically, musically, and kinesthetically involved.”
Engineering is not something people typically
imagine when they think of elementary school.
According to the Oxford Dictionary, it is “the
branch of science and technology concerned with
the design, building, and use of engines, machines,
and structures.” Many fifth grade students recently
participated in an engineering activity where they
designed, created and tested catapults out of cotton
balls, plastic spoons, craft sticks and rubber bands.
According to Jerry, a fifth grader, “It was cool because
we got certain materials and we had to think about
how we were going to make it.” Another student,
Eli, said, “It was fun because it was competitive. We
would launch and see whose went the furthest.”
“
It was cool because we got certain
materials and we had to think about
how we were going to make it.
– Jerry, 5th grader
”
A lesson is all the more successful when students
are so engaged they don’t realize they are learning.
Students in Mrs. Engelbrecht’s class had such an experience in math, when they were asked to create/
draw a Geometry Town. Students were challenged to
include streets, parks, buildings, a swimming pool
and a sandbox - using only geometric shapes. When
done correctly, students demonstrate understanding
of mathematical terms and concepts such as parallel and perpendicular lines, symmetry, and different
geometric shapes and angles.
What student would not want to be part of any of
these STEM activities? West’s kids love them, and
they also love giving back and helping others. Several of Ms. Claverie’s fifth grade students are in the
“Partner’s Club,” spending 15 minutes each week
reading to special education preschool students. In
addition, the Student Council is launching Pennies
for Patients, raising money to help a local Vallivue
student who is fighting for his life. Both of these are
examples of how West Canyon cares.
STEM activities make learning rich and fun in a
positive and collaborative way. Giving time and energy to help others also contributes to a well-rounded learning environment that helps build the foundation for students to be thoughtful, responsive, and
contributing citizens in their community.
Academy Students
Serve Community
Vallivue Academy students participate in community service through a variety of opportunities. In fact, an agreement to perform community service is a requirement to attend the school.
The school location has allowed the students to
help build working relationships with neighboring agencies. Many students, after attending an
orientation, volunteer time working with animals
at West Valley Humane Society. The close proximity of the shelter allows students to volunteer
immediately after school. Community Council of
Idaho and W.I.C.A.P. are also close by and students work with those agencies in similar academic and service roles.
Graduating seniors are required to complete 10
hours of community service. A range of tasks are
performed including building community gardens, volunteering at local assisted-living centers,
and helping with school improvement projects at
District playgrounds. This year over 700 hours
of service will be served in support of the greater
Caldwell and Nampa area.
The Academy has worked with Southwest District Health for the past three years; recently students volunteered to present information at the
annual “Bridging the Gap Dinner” to help parents gain insight on how to build healthy and
open relationships with their teens. Academy staff constantly look for new and different opportunities for students to give back to
the community. The students prosper and learn
from their experiences as they share their time
and talents with others.
Winter/Spring 2015
Vallivue Review
5
Science Comes to Life at East Canyon
East Canyon Elementary hosted Science Night
with great success. All students K-5 were tasked
with creating a science project based on their grade
level topic. The science projects were proudly displayed in the hallways and classrooms.
Projects ranged from animals and their habitats,
to the scientific method and rock cycle, as well as
plant and animal cell displays. Notable projects included an investigation to determine which hamburgers molded faster, McDonalds or homemade;
experiments with crystal formations; and a presentation about static electricity. All of the students’
projects were well thought out and presented in a
professional manner.
While the projects were the focus of the night,
there were also several additional exciting learning
opportunities for students and families. The Society of Hispanic Engineers from Boise State University attended to assist excited students construct
lava lamps. The Vallivue High School Robotics
Team created activities that students participated in,
including driving robots. The elementary students
really loved working with robots and the high school
students were eager to help them learn about the
robots they had created. Idaho Power staff brought
circuit boards so students could build their own circuits. Lakeshore Learning even brought in scienceoriented games for students to play.
East Canyon recently received a grant from Micron that enabled the Discovery Technologies science bus to present a school-wide STEM assembly.
This was an hour-long presentation for students in
all grade levels that included several amazing demonstrations such as measuring on a number line,
freezing and melting points, shattering a frozen
tennis ball, and other engaging science topics. Student volunteers were selected to help with demonstrations. Part of this day-long experience enabled
students to board the Discovery Bus to experience
hands-on science activities and to view a 3-D printer in action.
Through these exciting experiences students were
able to reinforce their new science exposure they
are gaining in the classroom and also build excitement for future science endeavors. East Canyon
greatly appreciates all of the partnerships that were
gained through these learning activities and will to
continue to foster a love for science in students.
Best Doggone Reading Buddies
Desert Springs Students Eagerly Read to Attentive Audience
▲ Loyal Listener - Jenny Perry, along with
her dog Paisley, listen to students Michelle C.
Jose M. and Ernesto C. practice their reading
skills. Paisley’s calm welcoming demeanor
allows kids to feel at ease as they snuggle up
and read to their furry friend.
The second Thursday of the month
at Desert Springs Elementary is one
of joy and excitement. This is the day
that makes all of the reading practice
worthwhile. This is the day that the
students get to show off their skills
and build confidence by reading
aloud to the pet therapy dogs.
West Valley Outlaws therapy dogs
and their trainers have been coming
to read with the students at Desert
Springs for the past five years. “I love
when the dogs come!” exclaimed thirdgrade student Karime M. when asked
how she felt about reading with the
dogs. “Our kicks come from observing
the children’s improvement and development, knowing the countless hours
training our pooches pays off,” stated
Charlie Shunn, one of the pet therapy
volunteers who arrives each month.
The teachers see the benefits from
having these volunteers from the community share their time and talented
pets. “The kids really open up when
they are reading with the dogs,” notes
Mary Johnson, educational paraprofessional. The non-judgmental environment created by the dogs and their
owners helps the children to feel more
comfortable practicing their reading
skills in a fun and engaging way.
Not just any dog can be a therapy
dog. The dogs on the West Valley therapy teams have been trained to have
good manners and to be loving, willing
“
feel about being able to spend time
with the dogs and read with them is
exciting for all to see. “They’re just
such good listeners,” insisted Michelle
C., a first-grader. The true appreciation the students feel for being provid-
As Lucy and each child settle in with a book, the seriousness with
which they read to her and show her each picture is priceless.
– Nancy Glascock, Lucy’s owner
listeners while the students are reading. “It is so fun to see the kids light
up when they see the dogs. They approach without fear. Even those who
don’t appear to be too fond of the dogs
at first seem to quickly warm up and
will scoot closer and stick a hand out,”
stated Jenny Perry, owner of Paisley.
As the second Thursday approaches,
students begin to ask if the dogs are
coming. The genuine excitement they
”
ed with the opportunity to spend time
with such warm and accepting dogs
can be seen through their excitement,
grins, and hugs given to the dogs as
they say good-bye. “I love watching
the kids read to the dogs, especially
when a pup puts their paw or head on
their lap, or leans against them. This
communicates such genuine love towards these kids – a feeling they may
not get elsewhere,” sums up Perry.
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Vallivue Review
Winter/Spring 2015
Integrates STEM Activities
New Heights for Learning Lakevue
Across Disciplines to Change Thinking
The Micron Foundation and Lakevue’s fifth grade students partneredup
for an interactive lesson on “States of
Matter.” Students were taken by surprise when balls started flying across
the room, creating a high level of energy and excitement. The fifth grade
teachers are integrating STEM (science, technology, engineering, and
mathematics) in all academic disciplines with the goal of getting students to think differently.
STEM is an integrated approach to
education: technology moves forward
by leaps and bounds,
math is the universal
language of science,
engineering incorporates what is known
into physical results,
and science defines
the processes used to
solve problems and incorporate technology,
math, and engineering. By implementing STEM across disciplines, students begin to understand
how these vital components will shape
the future of their education and their
possible careers. The focus shifts from
basic understanding of scientific concepts to experiential learning through
project-driven activities that encourage
higher level thinking.
The fifth grade students began practicing the steps of the scientific method to perform several experiments in
groups. Building towers out of minimarshmallows and spaghetti allowed
them to utilize math and engineering
skills, while solving problems collaboratively. While learning about cell structures and the functions of their organelles, students were able to manipulate
cell models on iPads before presenting
their findings to the class. Fruit Loops
and toothpicks were used as students
constructed molecules based on the
number of electrons shared by atoms.
Every project required collaboration
and active communication — a key
skill for future success.
The fifth graders also took part in an
after-school math and science night.
Students constructed stomp rockets
using materials such as paper and pvc
tubes then launched their creations.
After comparing flight characteristics
and distances, students were able to
modify their rocket to increase performance. Hailey S. liked the competitiveness, comparing the distance her rocket
flew with the distance of Caroline M.’s
and Brooke G.’s rockets. Faith S. said,
“...you have to remember to weigh
down the tip of the rocket; you can’t
use too much tape because it weighs
it down, and it doesn’t fly well without wings. It needs four or five wings.”
Parent Monica Skarpnes also enjoyed
how the activity challenged students’
thinking. She said, “I like how it was
done in a fun environment. They were
able to use their own creativity and
not rely on just one solution.”
The Micron Foundation shares the
desire to prepare students for their future as they partners with school districts by bringing hands-on learning
to the schools, sharing how STEM is
utilized in careers. In the lesson on the
changing states of matter, fifth graders were able to manipulate matter as
it sublimated from solid to gas, as well
as several other experiments providing an interactive experience instead
of a textbook lesson, introducing
many different STEM careers as viable
options in their futures.
Superheroes for Alex
Community Joins to Create ‘Magical’ Moment
for 5th Grade Lakevue Student
A short time ago, a dad came to tell Lakevue Counselor Suzanne Bowen that he
thought he was about to hear really awful news again. His son Alex was being
called back to an emergency meeting with a team of doctors just after his MRI.
Suzanne crossed her fingers and hoped for the best. After all, Alex Roberts,
had already had two brain tumors removed, his mother had passed away last
summer from cancer and the family had lost their home. Sadly, the outcome
of the meeting was not as everyone hoped — Alex was diagnosed as having his
third brain tumor and scheduled to have surgery at St. Luke’s on the Monday of
spring break. After sitting on this news overnight Suzanne called dad back and
asked if she could share his story. What follows is the story of how our strong
Vallivue community once again has come together for one of its own.
It was agreed that we wanted to do something for Alex. We had thirteen days to work
some magic and show this amazing student
what we think of him and offer our support.
The initial goal was to raise at least $1000
for the Roberts family, provide gifts for all
the kids, and put on an “Amazing Superhero”
themed assembly for Alex. The gathering was
a surprise for Alex and while his siblings and
father knew something was up, they had no
idea to what extent the Vallivue community
had come together to work their magic. In
attendance were representatives from the
Caldwell Police, Caldwell Fire Department,
Mayor Nancolas, the US Marines and US
Navy. Coaches and athletes from the College
of Idaho also participated.
Gifts were given to siblings, as well as Alex;
one of which was a book of well wishes from
his entire 5th grade class. The Vallivue FFA
held their yearly auction and brought a check
for $3030, the high school presented an additional check for $1300, Vallivue Middle
School raised $1200 and thanks to a raffle, hat
day, Krispy Kreme doughnut sales, and help
from all the elementary schools, Lakevue Elementary presented a check to Alex and his
family for $3540. In total our amazing community raised over $9000 in 13 days for Alex.
The Roberts family spent a short time with
Mrs. Bowen after the assembly standing in
complete shock, yet smiling ear to ear while
expressing the most gracious of thank you’s.
They left for home, but returned within an
Winter/Spring 2015
Ahead
of the
Curve
Proud parents and family members
beamed with pride as students donned
graduation mortarboards and received
certificates. It could be the first of many of
these types of ceremonies, as the graduates
were only 3 to 5 years old. They are the first
to participate in the Family Bi-literacy pilot
project, designed and sponsored by the State
continued from page 6
hour. She wondered what might be wrong.
The family went home and immediately
wrote thank-you notes for everyone. The
level of gratitude the family feels is immense.
Alex had surgery and Mrs. Bowen received word from the family that he is tumor free! His recovery is going slow and he
may need to go to Seattle for further treatment but the good news is he is cancer free!!
Thank you! Thank you!! Thank you!!! to
everyone!!! All of the heart-filled support,
time, efforts and wonderful talents did not
go unnoticed. The Lakevue family could
never have placed such a big smile on Alex’s
face without the dedication and care from
our community.
A special account, Superheroes for Alex,
has been set up at Washington Trust Bank
for anyone who would like to donate to continue support for Alex and his family.
Pilot Migrant
Preschool Program
Makes a Difference
at the Beginning
of Idaho to prepare youngsters and their families for school. Targeting migrant families, the
project is designed to address the need for bilingual books and supplies for preschoolers as
well as introduce strategies for parents to help
prepare for the school years ahead.
“This program has the potential to make a
huge difference for whole families,” said Sarah
Seamount, Vallivue’s LEP Coach and Migrant
Coordinator. In order for Vallivue to participate in the pilot, her staff, Griselda Garcia, Elia
Ramirez, both Migrant Family Liaisons, and
Araceli Cornejo, the Regional Migrant Coordinator based in Vallivue, undertook a full
year of training to certify as trainers. “Their
commitment was what made it a real success,
the spirit of service to these families is very
present in these three,” she said.
Nine migrant families (13 children) participated in the pilot for 9 weeks, after which a
celebration for completing the program was
held, acknowledging the skills that were obtained by both students and parents.
Griselda, Elia, and Aracely visited the family homes once a week for at least two hours
per visit to teach the preschoolers and their
parents how to get ready for school. The visits
often occurred outside of the school day, allowing for the family’s availability.
The liaisons found great support for the
students from the migrant families who face
the often daunting task of moving their children into a public school environment. They
are very proud of the results of the program
and have learned that the state deemed their
work very successful, as the pilot will become
an adopted program within some districts.
The needs of these children were greater than
anticipated, but the letter and number recognition, art projects, reading required by
the parents, and developing of skills that will
encourage learning family-wide, will help to
prepare stronger students. The liaisons are
already preparing for their next promising
group of young graduates.
Vallivue Review
Central Canyon
Comets Shine Bright
Each morning as the Central
Canyon Comets enter their classrooms, it is not uncommon to hear
the “plink, plink, plink” of coins
dropping into a milk jug. In early
spring, these jugs, filled with coins
collected by the students, will be
delivered around the community
to people and charitable organizations in need.
Allison Hubler, a fifth grade student council officer, introduced
her fellow council members to Change for Change, a nonprofit organization. The mission for this organization is “Small
change. Big changes.” Hubler motivated the student council to
make an impact on their community. The council members decided, unanimously, to support the Change for Change mission
and implement a fundraiser in their school.
The fundraising proposal to the staff was met with overwhelming support. In classrooms, discussions commenced
with teachers explaining how the mission helps others with no
expectation of reward or prize back to the giver. Teachers asked
students to list organizations they would like to support.
Classroom discussions blossomed into staff and students
sharing how some organizations have assisted their families.
One staff member had the opportunity to share with her class
how Camp Rainbow Gold, an oncology camp for children and
their families, provided a getaway for a family member battling
with cancer. A student shared how the West Valley Humane Society took care of his dog when the dog ran away after being
scared by fireworks. The Ronald McDonald House has touched
the life of another student whose family had to travel for medical reasons. Make a Wish Foundation has provided a once-in-alifetime experience for a student’s family in our school.
In addition to the organizations which touch people’s lives,
some students have decided to reach their caring hand out to
one of their own peers. Recently, the students have had a peer
who is experiencing health issues. This student’s class has decided to give their jug to the family to help with the added healthcare expenses. This class is excited to do anything they can to
help to get their friend back in class.
What started with a single, compassionate idea has turned
into a school-wide opportunity for lifelong lessons in learning,
giving, and compassion. Central Canyon students have risen to
the challenge and worked to give back to some amazing organizations in our community while increasing school pride and a
sense of hope generated from the joy of giving.
7
8
Vallivue Review
Winter/Spring 2015
Magnificent Music Programs
Vallivue Middle School Continues Tradition of Excellence
Vallivue Middle School has a tradition of
excellence in music, which would be impossible without the tremendous support for
music that exists throughout the district.
Our belief is to give as many opportunities for students as possible to grow in their
musical abilities. We hold to the belief that
it is important to be a well-rounded musician, whether a singer, a string, percussion,
or wind player. We work hard to teach skills
and concepts that will empower our students
to become high quality, independent musicians who can adapt to any performance
situation and act with professionalism.
The orchestra program has seen incredible growth since Samantha Sabrowsky
joined Vallivue. Upon her arrival there were
87 students in orchestra district wide, now
there are over 250! VMS has seen the most
growth, expanding from 12 students in Ms.
Sabrowsky’s first year beginning class to between 30 and 45. The orchestras perform
four concerts each year, and participate in
the District III Spring Music Festival in May.
The band program at VMS consists of
three concert bands, one for each grade, and
one jazz band comprised of an auditioned
group of 7th and 8th graders. This year a
percussion class was formed to focus on the
specificneedsPGearlypercussionists.+azz
band recently participated in the NNU Middle School Jazz Invitational. NNU provided
the musicians with a full day of activities, including a recording session, jam session with
another middle school jazz band, a clinic
with judges interacting with the students on
stage, and an evening concert with all bands.
The 8th grade concert band
performed a concert with the
Treasure Valley Concert Band at
the end of February. The eighth
graders combined with TVCB
to perform the closing number.
It was a great opportunity for
student musicians to sit along
with accomplished adult musicians as they performed. One
student exclaimed, “I could relive that experience a thousand times!”
The VMS choir program consists of four
choirs and one general music class. We have
a 7th and 8th grade girls choir, a 7th and 8th
grade boys choir, a 6th grade choir, and an
auditioned mixed choir named “Select.” Each
year highly skilled students are invited to
participate in the Southwest Idaho Middle
Schools (SWIMS) Honor Choir to collaborate with some of the best middle school
singers from the Treasure Valley. Two large
choirs are formed that perform with top
notch directors. It’s a lot of extra work but an
unforgettable experience. The Select choir,
much like the jazz band, is given more opportunities outside of the typical classroom
experience to expand on their musicianship.
They perform at the College of Idaho Vocal
Jazz Festival each November, the BSU Jazz
Festival in February, and join with the visual
art department for an evening of “Jazz and
Art” in May. The general music class attends
a field trip each semester to watch a musical
performance such as a ballet, a musical, or
an orchestral performance to enhance their
musical learning. 5FBDIFS$PSSJOB Steinbach
continueTUP expanduponthesetraditionTas
she aims to take the VMS music program to
new heights while challenging students to be
skilled, versatile, independent singers.
Every orchestral, band and choir ensemble
performs at the District III Large Group Choral Festival in May. This is the culminating experience of the year’s hard work. VMS holds
a tradition of earning Superior and Excellent
ratings at this festival, and we work hard to
uphold that tradition.
3-2-1
Blast-Off
Discover Technology Grant
Ignites STEM Learning at Birch
Birch Elementary launched the
school year with a continued focus on
integrating STEM learning activities
into the curriculum. The PTO and
Student Council, with the assistance
of 4th grade teacher Juilana Lookhart,
applied for a Micron Discover Technology Grant. Upon being awarded the grant, the school pays a
third of the cost to bring the Discover Technology program and
hands-on bus experience to students in grades 3, 4, and 5.
The day started with a 45-minute assembly filled with amazing
and engaging demonstrations that provided an opportunity for
students to take in the sights, sounds and flavors of science. The
students climbed aboard the Discovery Bus, a traveling scientific
lab equipped with the latest technologies to promote sciencebased careers ranging from bio-tech to video game programming
to robotics and even electronics.
The interest in STEM activities grew throughout this school
year. For example, 5th grade students completed a unit about
mixtures and solutions/states of matter. Students participated in
labs involving mixing chemicals with water to produce chemical reactions. One of the mixtures produced a new substance,
which students learned was called a precipitate. They also observed what the “fizzing bubbles” do when they completed the
same experiment in a Ziploc bag. Teachers reported it was fun
to see their faces as the bag got bigger and bigger as it filled with
the gas produced from the chemical reaction. The 3rd grade students explored planets in STEM-based learning that is integrated
with Language Arts unit on the Sun, Moon, and Earth. The final
projects include research, technology, engineering a physical representation of a planet, and the oral presentations.
Birch Elementary School’s STEM learning opportunities continue after the traditional school day has ended. In the PLACE
after-school program students learned about the different types
of bridges using Popsicle sticks to build a truss bridge. In another
session, a visitor from Micron came to show the students about
states of matter. The students explored Oobleck, a substance that
is both a solid and liquid. Students in this program have received
information on recycling, reusing, and reducing. Everyday items
were looked at and discussed and students had to determine how
long each item takes to decompose. As a culminating activity,
students made their own paper out of recycled scraps.
All of these experiences are part of the school’s continued commitment to provide STEM activities for all students. Our objective being to provide the opportunities that ignite student interest
and encourage students to consider STEM careers.
Winter/Spring 2015
Sage Valley Embraces 21st Century Learning
Philanthropy 101: Lending a Helping Hand
Sage Valley’s eighth grade tier II math class has
been selected to participate in the CenturyLink
Middle School Philanthropic Grant Program. This
program will help to increase awareness among
Idaho middle school students of the various needs
in our community. Eight classrooms were chosen
across the state that will determine how to distribute up to $3000 to non-profit organizations impacting each community. Each class will vote on the organizations that will receive the funds through the
process described below.
The eighth grade math class will research various
non-profit organizations in their community. They
prepare a written summary of a non-profit, the
needs it addresses, a brief history and the number
of people the non-profit assists annually. The students then prepare an oral argument/presentation
and act as an advocate for their selected non-profit
and present it for consideration for the distribution
of the grant money. Students determine how to distribute the $3000 among the selected organizations
with a minimum of a $250 contribution to a single
non-profit. CenturyLink approves the plan and the
selected non-profits are invited to a presentation
Preparing for
Tomorrow
9
Strives to Develop Life-long Learners
event at Sage Valley where they are presented with
their contribution as determined by the students.
We are excited to be selected to participate in this
venture. The students involved will be exposed to
the efforts of several non-profits in their community while participating in bettering the lives and
conditions within their community.
Diamondbacks Savor an Hour of Code
Students enrolled in Intermediate Computers
were introduced to computer coding. Students
learned about the binary code and applied it to
write basic messages. Students also used Khan
Academy to learn more about coding and to complete the “Hour of Coding” lessons on the website.
At the end of the lessons students drew their own
characters using code. They reflected on coding and
most students conveyed it was one of their favorite
lessons in computer class. Coding is a great way to
integrate computers, science, math and art.
Three Sage Valley teachers will participate in the
code.org Middle School Computer Science Program training this summer. The Middle School
Computer Science Program consists of interdisciplinary modules that combine computer science
concepts with science and mathematics.
Micron Discovery Bus keeps STEM Moving
Sixth graders were treated to a STEM learning experience on March 5th. The Micron Discovery Bus
made a stop at Sage Valley and put on an assembly
and a day’s worth of demonstrations involving science, technology, engineering and math. Students
enjoyed playing with electromagnets, electric circuits, robots and watching a 3-D printer in action.
We greatly appreciate Micron for getting Sage Valley
students excited about STEM.
Sage Valley is striving to develop life-long learners.
Through experiences like these and many others, our
school is helping and guiding our students toward
becoming successful today and for the future.
to identify programs of study they may want to pursue. Students then research a plan to gain training
or schooling to meet their career interests.
One significant finding identified is that out of the
topped-ranked STEM occupations, 41 are related
to health. One student commented, “I would consider becoming a surgeon since my highest score is
in Health Science.” Others were surprised at all the
different career opportunities in the healthcare sector that are available and growing quickly.
Rivervue curriculum focuses heavily on employment and workplace protocol. During Speech class,
ninth graders at Rivervue practice the interview process including appropriate dress and nonverbal skills.
They role-played with a potential employer and were
assessed by the teacher and their peers. Many of the
students felt this was beneficial were encouraged to
start thinking about after-school jobs. Alex M. said,
“I felt the interview process will help me get a job at
Hastings and prepared me for that.” Also, Jacob H.
learned from the experience, he stated, “I learned to
not show up all swag, that you need to present yourself as the right person for the job and show confidence.” Mr. Joseph Palmer, ninth grade Speech teacher, thought the students presented themselves well
during the interviews even when they were thrown a
“curve ball” question, such as, “What would your best
friend say about you?”
Students and staff recognize the strong potential in
the health field for multi-leveled careers which STEM
skills are imperative. Students also see the availability and diversity of the jobs offered, aware of the role
of education in building future careers. Rivervue will
continue building on its students interests and passions through continued programs such as the CIS
program, AVID and STEM activities.
Riverview Students Investigate Viable
Career Options and Map Out Future
STEM skills are important to several healthcare
careers; the skill levels needed vary widely with each
career. Healthcare is, and will remain for the foreseeable future, one of America’s strongest growth industries according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Seven of the 20 fastest-growing occupations
are in healthcare.
Rivervue Academy students have ranked the
healthcare field as their top selection in their career
readiness course taught in cooperation with Idaho
Career Information System (CIS) supported by
the Idaho Department of Labor. The Department
of Labor provides schools with the opportunity to
apply for a grant to pay for modules to encourage
career and college awareness. Students take an active role in their career planning and college preparation through exploring their interests and talents
Vallivue Review
10
Let the
Vallivue Review
Winter/Spring 2015
Good Times
Roll
Educators Join to Recognize Colleagues
B
irch Elementary School, the official host of
the 2015 Vallivue School District Teacher of the
Year celebration, entertained the educational groupies in attendance with a music-themed party. Emcee
“Kash Kasem” introduced the candidates for district
teacher of the year from nine schools. The candidates, who were selected by their colleagues, were
presented in a “live” count-down style radio program from AM 6900, THE BOBCAT.
Our first amazing teacher candidate for District
Teacher of the Year arrived on the scene 11 years
ago. Brandi Milliron’s top memory is when one of
her students who had struggled all
year, but never quit trying his hardest to get a 3 on the spring IRI, was
able to reach that goal. He came to
her in the hall and said “I did it!”
and gave her a huge hug. Perhaps
that is why her theme song is “Not a Moment Too
Soon” by Tim McGraw.
Next we meet Courtney Puente from Central Canyon Elementary. In her four years of teaching, her
most memorable moment involves
a Kindergartner who came to her
with extreme behavioral issues.
His meltdowns often resulted in a
visit to a time out room so he could
calm down. Throughout that year,
Courtney worked with him to help build confidence in
his abilities. By the time he reached his 1st grade year,
he was able to participate with less support. As time
went on, he blossomed into a completely different student. His success was so great that he was re-tested at
the end of 1st grade and no longer qualified for Special
Education. There’s even the possibility of testing for
the Gifted and Talented program in his future. What a
great reminder that it really is all about “The Climb”, as
sung by Miley Cyrus.
The count down of our top hits continues. The following teacher’s theme song is “(I Wanna
See You Be) Brave” by Sara Bareilles.
The wonderful memories over Cindy
Kelm’s 16 years of teaching combine
to remind her that teaching is what
she is supposed to do. These memories have helped her to realize that what she does each
day impacts young lives.
Our next candidate comes to us from East Canyon
Elementary. Memories over the past 12 years of teaching demonstrate her theme song,
“Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane
– like the time she did the Napoleon
Dynamite dance with her teaching
team, or when she was caught dancing in class to help her students understand a concept. Amanda Rinker’s best memory
is from a couple of years ago when a student let her
know that she is still her brother’s all time favorite
teacher. He had been a very angry child from a rough
home environment. She did the best she could with his
outbursts in class, yet every Friday he always showed
a different side as he begged her to let him stay after
school. Encouragement was key in helping her student
succeed; she understands that teachers really do leave
an impression on those they teach.
Topping the charts at Lakevue Elementary is a dynamic teacher who recalls an earth-shaking experience during one of her 24 years of teaching. While
working in East Los Angeles, a big earthquake hit.
Shelley Remick watched wave after wave of ground
zip across the playground and roll
beneath her feet. The plan for that
day had been to travel to the County Fair, but that plan was obviously
out. She had some disappointed
kiddos that day, but she knew that
safety was more important than a field trip. Congratulations, Shelley Remick – and may you stay, as
Rod Stewart sings, “Forever Young”.
Eight years of teaching has impacted our next
honoree in many ways – little victories each year,
special memories with students and stories that
make us all chuckle. One memory that April Belles holds dear is
watching her first group of Kindergartners celebrate the completion
of 5th grade. Admiring how they
had grown, changed and the stories they still remembered from their first year was a
reminder of the big picture we all play in the journey
our students take; a journey that teaches them how
to be students, to impart a love of learning, and to
show them personal responsibility in their academic
success. Her theme song, “What I Am” by Will I Am
is one she often shares with her students to encourage them to work hard, never give up, and be the
best they can be.
We’re a movin’ on up in our annual celebration of
teachers... to the secondary level.
In his 32 years of teaching, this Vallivue teacher
has certainly had his share of exceptional teaching
experiences. However, his most
memorable moment occurred recently. Just as the tardy bell was to
ring, Leland Sasaki walked into his
classroom to the sight and sounds
of a standing ovation. His students
were congratulating him on becoming Teacher of
the Year for Sage Valley Middle School. This was a
huge moment for this teacher, because all year long
he has been working on teaching lessons on kindness and helping students develop an appreciation
for what people do for them. His theme song is “The
River” by Garth Brooks.
The hits just keep coming – and our next teacher
of the year definitely has “The Eye of the Tiger”, her
teaching theme song by Survivor.
Nine years of teaching at Vallivue
Middle School have been a very
rewarding experience. For Emily
Castleton she enjoys it when her
students come back to visit. She
says it best: “As a 6th grade teacher, you can often
see a student’s potential, but don’t always get to see
the finished product.” It is so rewarding when they
return after graduating, and you see how they have
met or exceeded your expectations for them.”
Our final guest of honor comes to us as the candidate from Vallivue High School. Tegan Byerly reflected on her teaching experiences and shared that
many moments and events in the past four years
have been incredibly memorable, but one that will
stick with her is from preparing
for and attending the state robotics
competition this year. The teams
she took to the event did not perform as well as they had hoped. The
Monday following the competition
one of the team members chose to stay after school
for two hours, working on his robot. He explained
that it wasn’t the tournament or awards that mattered, but proving to himself that he could do it. The
perseverance and determination impressed her and
serve as a reminder that there are always learning
opportunities available, if we grab them. Let’s hear
it for Tegan Byerly whose theme song is, “Sound of
Sunshine” by Michael Franti and Spearhead.
In order for teachers to qualify for the nomination
for being selected as Teacher of the Year, they must
be, at a minimum, in their fourth year of teaching
in the district. Teachers are chosen at each school,
following a selection process that is determined and
carried out at each site. The District Teacher of the
Year is then selected from the field of candidates by
a district-wide committee each year. Vallivue’s district choice will then become eligible to compete to
become Idaho Teacher of the Year. This state-wide
program, which began in 1959, is one of the most
prestigious honors in the state for teachers. The
Idaho Teacher of the Year is chosen from all of the
state school districts’ nominees by a selection com-
Winter/Spring 2015
mittee representing the state education leaders and
lawmakers. State Teacher of the Year will then serve
as Idaho’s nominee for the National Teacher of the
Year competition held next year.
Back at the Teacher of the Year Celebration at
Birch, Dr. Charlton, Vallivue School District Superintendent, was given the honor of presenting each
school’s selected honoree with a charming plaque,
designed and produced by the high school’s woodshop program, and a crisp $100 bill provided by the
Vallivue Education Foundation’s Batt Family Fund.
The countdown rolled down to the final, highly
anticipated moment. Dr. Charlton expressed that
all teachers play an important role in Vallivue, and
all are appreciated for all their time, efforts and
dedication to the profession. Yet, only one is chosen
to be recognized as District Teacher of the Year. He
then announced the 2015 District Teacher of the
Year, selected from the exceptional teachers who
were recognized and honored.
With an introduction that highlighted the candidate’s years of service to Vallivue students, athletes,
and sports programs, Dr. Charlton announced that
Sage Valley’s Teacher of the Year, Mr. Leland Sasaki,
was selected as district representative.
Vallivue Review
11
Marvelous Mentor
Elli Honored by BSU College of Education
Excerpted From Teachers Honored for Mentoring
Idaho Education News - http://www.idahoednews.org
Mark Elli a teacher at East Canyon Elementary
School joined a group of 21 educators with almost
400 years of combined teaching experience who
were honored recently by Boise State University’s
College of Education.
The teachers, specialists, counselors and teaching coaches were nominated by their peers and selected by a judging panel as Mentors of the Year in
the fourth annual “Celebration of Teaching” awards
dinner.
“What better way to celebrate, than to bring together a remarkable group of mentors and recognize their contribution to the education profession,”
said Rich Osguthorpe, dean of the BSU’s College of
Education.
Each educator was presented with a $500 check,
ceramic apple and gift bag of swag.
Mr. Sasaki received an additional plaque and an
additional $100 for his recognition. He will now
go on to represent Vallivue in the State Teacher of
the Year Celebration and may even participate at
the national level.
Congratulations Mr. Leland Sasaki, for the honor of being selected as the 2015 Vallivue School
District Teacher of the Year.
The keynote speaker and said: “Mentoring is the
key to continuing professional development for all
educators.”
“Mark comes across as approachable and friendly
because he mentors like a teacher should, providing
time to grapple with the material, trying to incorporate a variety of perspectives into discussions and
addressing misconceptions immediately.”
12
Vallivue Review
This year, the Vallivue Education Foundation has received
56 applications for the 21 scholarships to be rewarded to 2015
graduating seniors. $17,800
will be divided between the
recipients of this year’s scholarships. Winners of the VEF-sponsored scholarships will be announced at the Academic Awards ceremony in May.
The VEF also provides funds to schools for those extra expenses like helping to pay for field trips, purchasing a new set
of glasses or coat for a student, or gifting a teacher a chunk of
change to be used for classroom expenses.
Founded in 1987, the VEF supports students through taxdeductible contributions to a variety of funds and scholarships. The Foundation is governed by a volunteer board composed of Vallivue patrons, staff members, and a school board
trustee. Contributors to VEF can choose where and how to
allocate their gift. A substantial donation would allow the
creation of a new fund or scholarship. Payroll deductions are
available for employee participation, which is currently utilized by several staff members. Memorials and teacher-appreciation contributions are easily established and distributed.
Funds are either managed in-house or through our investor
who works to maximize earnings in family, scholarship, and
larger funds; and every contribution is tax deductible — VEF
is a non-profit charitable organization.
Roughly 40 separate funds that get contributed to and distributed from uniquely make up the VEF. One fund receives
payroll contributions from staff members who take care of
a myriad of extra expenses from students or schools, paying for them in an expedited fashion One gets contributions
matched from a spouse’s employer, providing a little extra to
offset the teacher’s out-of-pocket classroom expenses. Several
Vallivue families support memorial funds that provide college scholarships to graduates annually. Albertson’s Go On
money awarded to VHS a couple years ago sponsors three
scholarships every spring.
Along with family, sport, or educational funds, each school
has a fund in the VEF, and via a fund request, the school
representative can release money for support of students.
These school funds are primarily sustained through the annual Fund Run, an event held in the fickle November weather
for staff, students, and families. A 5-kilometer run, walk, or
stroll raises funds for the school accounts, as well as gives a
bunch of brave souls the chance to enjoy a day outside and
then participate in an exciting raffle. There is a trophy for the
fastest boy, girl, man, and woman, and a traveling trophy to
the school with the most representation. Community support
comes from several local sponsors and a great day is had by
all. The event is on the Friday following parent/teacher conferences in November.
Twenty-eight years strong, the Vallivue Education Foundation provides a valuable conduit for financial support to
the students of the district, and it continues to build on this
strong foundation. If you would like to learn more, Kristy at
the district office (454-0445) can answer any questions you
may have.
Winter/Spring 2015
Strength in
Numbers
AVID Develops Confidence and
Leadership through Educational
and Extra-Curricular Activities
Still growing strong and making an impact,
the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program is in its third year in the
district. The program’s focus is on students in
grades 6-12 who are academically “in the middle,” with GPAs from 2.0 to 3.5. AVID students
may not feel confident pursuing higher education and are usually first in their family to attend
college. AVID provides a multi-year, schoolwide structure to support education goals with
aims of pursuing post-secondary education.
Candidates must be recommended by a teacher or counselor prior to acceptance into the program. AVID students must possess a strong desire to continue education beyond high school
and have the “individual determination” to do
what it takes to get there. He or she must be hard
working, exhibit a positive attitude, and be collaborative in nature. AVID students are enrolled
in their school’s most challenging classes, such
as honors and Advanced Placement, along with
the AVID elective class where the students learn
organizational and study skills, work on critical
thinking skills, and learn to ask inquisitive questions, while receiving academic help from peers
and tutors. Students also participate in motivational activities that make the prospect of attending college more attainable.
The program was adopted by Vallivue in 2012,
with 130 students participating. This year, we
have 568 middle and high school students, and
the AVID program has now expanded to Rivervue Academy. The elementary schools in the
district are implementing AVID strategies to increase students’ skills.
Service to their schools and community is a
large part of what AVID students do outside of
Vallivue School District #139
5207 South Montana . Caldwell, ID 83607
class work. Some of the fund drives and leadership activities they have spearheaded and supported are:
• Penny Wars Canned Food Drive: Over
4,000 cans were collected; 3,000 were distributed in the district. The Central Canyon
Food Pantry, Migrant Services, Christmas
family baskets, and Academy-identified
families were some of the recipients.
• Pennies for Patients: Over $1,700 was collected this year, double the amount collected in previous years. This was donated to
several needy funds.
• Career Day, the Homecoming Parade and
the Treasure Valley Night Light Parade saw
as many as 50 student volunteers who organized, guided, and contributed.
These are just a few opportunities that give
AVID students experience in community involvement that might not have been available
without begin enrolled in the program. Leadership and service skills help develop the confidence many of these “middle children” will use
to pursue higher goals, let alone raise their personal academic standards and expectations.
The strength of the program is reflected in
the confidence and leadership that has been developed in the first graduating seniors to have
spent a few years as AVID students. A number
of them have applied for the Superintendent’s
AVID scholarship, offered through the Vallivue
Education Foundation and supported by Superintendent Charlton. This scholarship provides
the recipients with a bit of financial support to
go on to college.
telephone
208-454-0445
www.vallivue.org