January 2012 Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) EXECUTIVE
Transcription
January 2012 Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) EXECUTIVE
8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: January 2012 This email contains images. To v iew in brow ser please click here | Forw ard to a friend ECHS hom e new s archive support ECS EXECUTIVE MESSAGE Happy New Year! As w e start 2012, w e have much to be thankful for at Environmental Charter Schools (ECS). An average of 90% of our graduates continue to gain acceptance to the UC/Cal State universities, w hile 33% of students in California do not even graduate w ith the courses required for admission. We are pleased w ith our students’ academic success to date, but w e aspire for more. January 2012 Executive Message Top Stories New School Site Green Ambassadors We have secured resources to help others learn from our successes, resources to increase the types of learning experiences on our campuses, and resources to expand our schools into new communities. Community Connection Staff Spotlight Events Partners Our w ork to inspire, equip, and empow er our students as w ell as educators from other communities continues to be recognized. The Boeing Company recently reinvested in our Green Ambassadors Institute w ith a grant aw ard of $50,000 (read more). After attending a student-led tour, AAA Flag & Banner w as so inspired they asked our student Green Ambassadors to help their company ‘go green’ (read more). Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) is an emerging, innovative public charter school netw ork that has been serving students in south Los Angeles County since 2001. Environm ental Charter High School (ECHS) is an aw ard-w inning public charter high school w ith a unique experiential learning design for college prep. It inspires students to learn about environmental issues facing our planet, how to become effective agents for change, how to implement local solutions to help address w orld issues, and how to educate others about these vital concerns. Environm ental Charter Middle School (ECMS) is our second public charter. It extends our innovative Thanks to partnerships w ith local companies, ECHS is building more interactive learning stations into our campus. Through EcoAds, a division of CBS, w e received a $23,000 grant from Pacific Coast Termite to support a solar installation, and w ith funding from Chevron and Google w e w ere able to complete construction of our greenhouse upon w hich the solar pow er equipment sits. The greenhouse w ill not only serve as a learning tool for students. It w ill also help educate our local community and 3,000 annual visitors w ho attend our student-led tours, community events, w orkshops, and teacher programs about the pow er of green technology and the importance of sustainable practices (learn more). Lastly, w e are thankful for the recent acquisition of our new middle school site w ithin the Gardena/Harbor Gatew ay community, w here w e w ill be able to serve an additional 300 students. (read more). Partnering w ith the community is a hallmark of our success, and part of Environmental Charter Schools’ “special sauce." Without the support of the local community, from businesses to government, to parents and supporters like you, w e could never achieve this success. Thank you! Uduak Ntuk is a m em ber of Environm ental Charter Schools' Board of Directors. He is a Petroleum Engineer w ith the City of Long Beach. TOP STORIES Solar Greenhouse Ribbon Cutting Ceremony – February 3rd file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_Jan 12 ECS HTML.zip/Jan 12 ECS HTML/echsnewsJan2012.html 1/7 8/15/13 approach to an earlier age group, ensuring their readiness for a college prep high school. Our schools serve Law ndale, Gardena, Inglew ood and surrounding communities. ECS UPDATE: January 2012 On February 3rd, ECS w ill cut the ribbon on its new solar Greenhouse, a part of the high school's outdoor learning center (get invited here). A rooftop solar photovoltaic system w ill serve as an educational tool for students and teachers to understand the science of solar energy as part of the broader earth science curricula. It w ill also help reduce the facilities’ carbon footprint. Funding for the solar system comes from Pacific Coast Termite, through EcoAds, a new program from EcoMedia-CBS. EcoAds w orks w ith cities across the nation to donate a portion of ad sales to local, environmentally focused projects. "When an advertiser signs on w ith EcoAds,” says CBS Eco Media, “a portion of the proceeds from the sale of each EcoAds advertisement goes to projects w e believe w ill benefit the environment.” Our aw ard-w inning Green Ambassadors program for schools and educators creates experiential learning opportunities for youth to build leadership skills and address critical environmental issues facing our planet, inspiring them to continue their education after high school. Our Green Ambassadors Institute helps educators bring the program’s benefits to their schools and students around the country. Learn more Walton’s Homecoming Features Environmental Charter Middle School Founder Kami Cotler Eight cast members from the beloved TV series, “The Waltons,” w hich aired from 1972 – 1981, recently reunited on the Today Show . One of them is more famous today to the students of ECMS as Ms. Cotler, their principal and one of the school’s founders. Kami Cotler played the youngest member, Elizabeth, in the nine seasons and six TV movie sequels of “The Waltons.” “The Waltons” projected a vision of a traditional family w ith traditional values. Cotler has grow n up to become a major supporter of charter schools. “I am a passionate proponent of the idea that not everybody learns the same w ay,” says Cotler. “It is important for parents to have a variety of public school programs from w hich to choose.” Kami hopes that her Waltons connection w ill help w ith school fundraising efforts. Her Facebook fan page friends are voting on Waltons’ photos to be sold on the ECMS w ebsite. Proceeds from the photo sales w ill underw rite educational field trips for the students. Back to top Plant a Seed Today Join Us Learn how you can help ECS and its unique programs inspire, grow , and ENVIRONMENTAL CHARTER SCHOOLS UNVEILS NEW MIDDLE SCHOOL SITE EXPANSION Gardena Event Heralds Opening of New School in Fall 2012 file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_Jan 12 ECS HTML.zip/Jan 12 ECS HTML/echsnewsJan2012.html 2/7 8/15/13 prepare future civic and environmental leaders. Your investment helps students gain the skills and know ledge they need for college, w ork, and the w orld. At the same time, you are helping the communities our students serve. By supporting our green technology and environmental projects, you w ill be helping us conserve resources for future generations. Contact: Executive Director Alison Suffet-Diaz Phone: (310) 214-3400 [email protected] ECS UPDATE: January 2012 Environmental Charter Schools unveiled the future site of its new est middle school in Gardena, California w ith a stunning open house event on December 11th. Environmental Charter Middle School – Gardena is scheduled to open this fall. For more information, click here. New School Lights Up the Neighborhood: neighbors from the surrounding Gardena/Harbor Gatew ay community joined ECMS at the event, w hich featured the lighting of a 100-foot-long art installation dubbed “Illuminate Learning.” The installation, w hich show cased artw ork by students, w as funded, designed and built in collaboration w ith Cunningham Group and designer James Stodgel out of materials salvaged from TV/film sets of Warner Bros. Studios. Back to top Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) GREEN AMBASSADORS Green Ambassadors Institute Keeps Growing with Boeing 16315 Grevillea Avenue Lawndale, CA 90260 Ph: (310) 214 3400 $50,000 Grant to Green Ambassadors Institute for UCLA Extension Graduate Program http://www.echsonline.org The Boeing Company, the w orld’s leading aerospace company and largest manufacturer of commercial jetliners, recently gave a $50,000 grant to the Green Ambassador Institute, founded by ECS in 2008. Green Ambassadors Institute (GAI) provides graduate-level courses through a partnership w ith UCLA Extension. Educators learn how to use the environment as the context for interdisciplinary learning that connects students to their campus, community and environment, and empow ers them to spread solutions beyond their school. “This signifies the high value Boeing continues to place on Green Ambassadors Institute (GAI) and our vision of empow ering teachers and administrators to use the environment as the context for interdisciplinary learning,” says Alison Suffet-Diaz, founder and executive director of ECS. “The ultimate goal is a healthy eco-system,” explains James E. Herr, Boeing’s w estern region senior manager of Global Corporate Citizenship. “We w ant to contribute to making every citizen an environmental stew ard.” Last year, the institute also received $25,000 as part of Boeing efforts to help drive positive change through its community engagement file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_Jan 12 ECS HTML.zip/Jan 12 ECS HTML/echsnewsJan2012.html 3/7 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: January 2012 w ork. “We’re extremely gratified to be a part of this endeavor w ith ECS and its far-reaching benefits — from schools, teachers, and students to society at large,” adds Carlos Cortez, director of the Department of Education at UCLA Extension. Back to top PARTNER SPOTLIGHT Environmental Charter Teens Help a Business Raise the “Go Green” Banner AAA Flag & Banner Takes Eco-Friendly Mission Forward AAA Flag & Banner is a leading banner manufacturer in the Los Angeles area. When the company challenged itself to become recognized as a leader in the digital print industry for its sustainability efforts and contributions to its community, it found the perfect partner in Environmental Charter Schools’ Green Ambassadors program. In the program, students learn about eco-friendly practices, and w ays to reduce, reuse and recycle materials. Teens spread the w ord to their peers and the community by delivering presentations that motivate audiences to adopt practical solutions. Teens also learn the value of teamw ork and polish their public speaking and presentation skills. The Challenge: “We w ere seeking a community partner that represented our ideas on environmental concerns, had a vision for the future, and the leadership to achieve their goals,” explains Craig Furst, Vice President of AAA. “ECS w as the clear choice.” Win-Win Results: Green Ambassador students visited the company’s facilities to speak to over one hundred employees about the importance of recycling, and w ays to do so. “We gave a meaningful presentation to explain and show just how easy and simple it is to make small changes that have a pow erful impact,” says Angelica Herrera, a senior at Environmental Charter High School. “When I spoke at AAA, I learned that students can really empow er adults," adds Leslie Cornejo, a junior at ECHS. “And they listen!” “We are inspired by the energy, vision, and grassroots efforts ECS imparts to our team at AAA,” says AAA’s Furst. The partnership’s strength lies in the real value it delivers to both parties. AAA Flag & Banner also generously donated signs and financial support to help ECS introduce its new est middle school site to the community (see ECMS - Gardena article). For a presentation at your school, business or organization, call our main office at 310 214-3400 Back to top STAFF SPOTLIGHT Monique Evans Job : Physics and Advanced Math Teacher, ECHS Educational Background : file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_Jan 12 ECS HTML.zip/Jan 12 ECS HTML/echsnewsJan2012.html B.S., General Mathematics, 4/7 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: January 2012 UCLA; Masters of Education, UCLA. Before ECHS: Taught Mathematics at Leuzinger High School. Taught in AVID program, 2004 to 2011. AVID coordinator, 2007 to 2011. On ECHS: “I love w orking w ith such a committed and collaborative staff, and having my ideas heard,” says Evans, w ho is a big believer in the value of interdisciplinary projects. But true success to Evans is w hen her students “grow as mathematicians and continue to increase their critical thinking skills to prepare them for college w ork.” A case in point: “This year in Physics, I've already had a student tell me she's having fun and learning at the same time!” Professionally active, Evans has been invited to serve as a panelist and moderator repeatedly at UCLA Mathematics and Teaching conferences, and she attends professional development w orkshops to expand her teaching skills and know ledge. When School’s Out: Evans enjoys yoga and “playing a tourist” in her ow n city. Socializing w ith friends tops her fun list, including being a member of an aw ard-w inning trivia team. Back to top EVENTS Science Center Greenhouse Ribbon Cutting! February 3rd, 2012, 10:35 a.m. at ECHS You are invited to a ribbon-cutting event at Environmental Charter High School’s annual Community Forum to celebrate the completion of its new Science Center Greenhouse, w ith a solar installation made possible by Pacific Coast Termite, and EcoMedia's EcoAd Program. Individuals scheduled to participate in and attend the event include: California State Assembly member Steve Bradford (AD15) Paul Polizzotto, Founder & President of EcoMedia Alison SuffetDiaz, Founder & Executive Director, Environmental Charter Schools Representatives from Pacific Coast Termite Funding from Chevron, Weingart Foundation, and S. Mark Taper Foundation helps support the science center. Event Location: Environmental Charter High School 16315 Grevillea Law ndale CA 90260 RSVP to ECHS: [email protected], or call (310) 214-3400 file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_Jan 12 ECS HTML.zip/Jan 12 ECS HTML/echsnewsJan2012.html 5/7 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: January 2012 2nd Annual Green Schools National Conference February 27-29, 2012 Denver, Colorado Growing Green & Healthy Schools for All Children Be a part of the only national gathering of K-12 leaders and educators coming together to make their schools and districts green and healthy centers of academic excellence Back to top OUR PARTNERS - A BIG GREEN THANK YOU! We thank our corporate, professional, and community partners for supporting us. From generous financial and in-kind assistance to time and expertise, your support is helping us inspire and educate like never before. Our many sponsors and partners Strategic Partners media policy center logo 50,000-plus Sponsors 5,000-plus Sponsors American Honda Foundation Ahmanson Foundation Chevron Green Torch Manatt, Phelps & Phillips State Farm Insurance Steinmetz Family Foundation Walton Family Foundation Weingart Foundation Raytheon City of Lawndale Deemer Family Fund Ron Hendrixson Metropolitan Water District Mazda Northrop Grumman Corporation Earth Friendly Products Rex 3 Saban Family Foundation Walker Talent Group LA Car Guy West Basin Partners 41 Pounds.org Aesthetic Edge Surgery Alex Gorosh, Filmmaker Algalita Marine Research Foundation AQMD Beach Cities Cycles Hey! Tanks LA Jamah KCET Los Angeles Social Venture Partners La Loma Development Landers Family Fund file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_Jan 12 ECS HTML.zip/Jan 12 ECS HTML/echsnewsJan2012.html 6/7 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: January 2012 Bioneers Lawndale Elementary School District Blue Sky Meadow Lawndale Rotary Brand Neutral Los Angeles Biodiesel Coop BREATHE Los Angeles Los Angeles County Department of Education California Credit Union Loyola Marymount University Calif. Reg'l Environmental Ed. Community M3 Cater Green Manhattan Beach Rotary Chipotle Marie D. Jeffrey Foundation Clear Choice Coalition of Essential Schools Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf College Match Common Vision Constitutional Rights Foundation Cuningham Group EarthFlow Designs Eco-Usable El Camino College EmpowerHER Empowerment Works Essential Living Foods FOLAR Fred Leeds Properties From Lot to Spot Fruit Tree Planting Foundation Get Hi Get Green Generation Earth Get Hip Get Green Global Exchange Green Fest Green Torch GreenContributor Heal the Bay Opportunity Green Murad National Hispanic Environmental Council Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship Otis College of Art and Design Parent Institute for Quality Education Participant Media reDiscover REI Revolution Foods RootdownLA Santa Monica Bay Keepers Shangri-La Construction Steaz Sue Chen Surfrider Foundation Tree Musketeers Tree People UCLA Extension UCLA Env. Science and Eng. UCLA Internal Med. Pediatrics UCLA School of Public Health USC Env. Science, Public Policy, Dentistry Veggie Grill Back to top file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_Jan 12 ECS HTML.zip/Jan 12 ECS HTML/echsnewsJan2012.html 7/7 This email contains images. To view in browser please click here | Forward to a friend ECHS home news archive support ECS EXECUTIVE MESSAGE February 2012 Executive Message Top Stories Commmunity Forum Plants do not thrive in isolation. They need the interactions of air, water, soil, and nutrients to grow. The growth that results in mature plants comes from a continual process of receiving and responding, of giving and gaining. A similar strategy supports our success at Environmental Charter Schools (ECS). All subjects are integrated – just as in real life. We use the natural environment and community environments as ways to engage students with a project-based curriculum that prepares them for lifelong learning and leadership. Green Ambassadors As with the strongest plants, our students develop roots that extend beyond the walls of our schools by engaging in community service, internships, and projects with community partners. We celebrate the opening of our new solar greenhouse this month (more below). Inspired Staff Inspiring Parents Events Partners Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) is an emerging, innovative public charter school network that has been serving students in south Los Angeles County since 2001. Our Green Ambassadors Institute (GAI) continues to sow the seeds of our environmental learning model with educators statewide. In partnership with UCLA Extension, and thanks to a generous $50,000 grant from Boeing, as well as others, GAI is disseminating to educators beyond our campuses the innovative curriculum practices first cultivated at ECHS. We are achieving this through courses that offer continuing professional education credits for K-12 educators who seek new ways to stimulate richer learning. Our efforts to find new ways to nurture growth, be it academic excellence, community empowerment, or actual plants in the soil, are what makes ECS so vibrant. We invite you to share your career insights as a guest speaker at ECHS’ Career Day on Friday March 2nd (Read more below). I look forward to seeing you there. William Robertson is a member of ECS’ Board of Directors. He is Managing Director of Strategic Planning & Project Management at Cushman & Wakefield, a Global Real Estate firm. Environmental Charter High School (ECHS) is an awardwinning public charter high school with a unique experiential learning design for college prep. It inspires students to learn about environmental issues facing our planet, how to become effective agents for change, how to implement local solutions to help address world issues, and how to educate others about these vital concerns. Environmental Charter Middle School (ECMS) is our second public charter. It extends our innovative approach to an earlier age group, ensuring their readiness TOP STORIES Hundreds Celebrate Environmental Charter High School's Annual Community Forum and Ribbon-Cutting for New Solar Greenhouse Hundreds of state and local leaders, neighbors, parents and students converged on the campus of ECHS for its annual Community Forum and ribbon-cutting for a Solar Greenhouse on Friday, February 3, 2012. California State Assemblymember Steven Bradford; Jed Wallace, President and CEO of the California Charter Schools Association; Paul Polizzotto, Founder and President of CBS EcoMedia; James Grande and Dennis Wilson, co-owners of Pacific Coast Termite; and representatives from Cuningham Group, Google, the Weingart Foundation and S. Mark age group, ensuring their readiness for a college prep high school. Our schools serve Lawndale, Gardena, Inglewood and surrounding communities. Our award-winning Green Ambassadors program for schools and educators creates experiential learning opportunities for youth to build leadership skills and address critical environmental issues facing our planet, inspiring them to continue their education after high school. Our Green Ambassadors Institute helps educators bring the program’s benefits to their schools and students around the country. Learn more representatives from Cuningham Group, Google, the Weingart Foundation and S. Mark Taper Foundation were among those on hand to support ECS at the event to highlight the school’s environmentally focused programs and curricula. "This greenhouse grant is a perfect example of how publicprivate partnerships make a powerful positive difference for communities on a variety of levels," Polizzotto said. "Not only will the solar panels and solar pump help save the school money by cutting electrical use, it will also give the students at Environmental Charter High School firsthand experience with how the solar technology works and the impact it can have," Polizzotto added. The installation of a 3kW rooftop energy system and solar-powered water pump for irrigation was made possible by Pacific Coast Termite and its participation in the EcoAd Program. The $23,000 grant also funded an environmentally friendly XT-2000 Orange Oil termite treatment for the greenhouse. Additional funding for the solar green house came from Google, Chevron, Cunningham Group, S. Mark Taper Foundation, Weingart Foundation, and The Ahmanson Foundation. At the event, NextEra, a clean energy provider, in collaboration with Assemblymember Bradford, presented a $15,000 check towards creating interactive learning stations for the new middle school. Teens Engage Local Community in Civic Issues at ECHS Community Forum The Ribbon Cutting celebration was part of the second annual Environmental Charter High School (ECHS) Community Forum. At the open house event on campus, students present policy positions, debate publicly with adults from the surrounding community, and lead discussions on issues such as “How Do My Decisions Affect Our Quality of Life?” and “What is the American Dream, and is it Sustainable?” The Community Forum is part of a unique Green Curriculum developed at ECHS, and is the culmination of a month-long academic program called Intersession. In the program, students engage in field research, policymaking, critical thinking, strategic community planning, and environmental justice issues. For example, our 9th graders worked alongside ECS Board member William Robertson and LEED architects to design sustainable scaled models of a university campus. Plant a Seed Today Join Us Learn how you can help ECS and its unique programs inspire, grow, and prepare future civic and environmental leaders. Your investment helps students gain the skills and knowledge they “Over the last month, they have studied issues from a variety of disciplines, from math to science to history. So the breadth of their analysis is exponentially that much more powerful,” explains Dr. Jenni Taylor, principal of ECHS. ECHS has earned kudos from a variety of organizations for using the environment as a way to both gain the skills and knowledge they need for college, work, and the world. At the same time, you are helping the communities our students serve. By supporting our green technology and environmental projects, you will be helping us conserve resources for future generations. Contact: Executive Director Alison Suffet-Diaz Phone: (310) 214-3400 [email protected] Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) 16315 Grevillea Avenue Lawndale, CA 90260 Ph: (310) 214 3400 http://www.echsonline.org the environment as a way to both engage students in project-based learning and prepare them to become leaders in their communities. Back to top GREEN AMBASSADORS Green Ambassadors Institute: Sharing What We've Grown The Green Ambassador Institute (GAI) created by ECS inspires and empowers K-12 educators beyond our own campuses to use the environment as the context for interdisciplinary learning, learning that connects students to their campuses, communities, and the environment. The Green Ambassadors Institute now offers three distinct courses. The series introduces strategies for educators to design and implement project/service-based learning classes. Equipped with the knowledge and tools to become a classroom facilitator, teachers then empower their students to become leaders within their communities by discovering and strengthening their voices. The graduate-level education courses are administered through a partnership with UCLA Extension to create opportunities for students to learn from and interact with their respective campuses. All GAI courses are held at Environmental Charter Schools in either Lawndale or Inglewood. Educators who have taken the courses report being thrilled with the results: “This course gave me hope and proved that students can learn sustainability practices and actually implement them. We most definitely WILL be using this curriculum.” “I am so thankful that this has been a part of my experience this year. I see so many possibilities to do this type of work with young people. Thank you!” “Green Ambassadors is about equipping students with strategies to be leaders for change, and activists for solving problems that they are passionate about.” Back to top INSPIRED STAFF Environmental Charter Teacher Honored by Los Angeles Lakers as Educator of the Month For his contribution to the community beyond the classroom, and for inspiring athleticism among his students, Environmental Charter High School (ECHS) teacher Andrew Maker was recognized recently at a Los Angeles Lakers NBA game during a half- time presentation. Makar, a chemistry teacher and cross-country coach, has extended his classroom into the community by creating service projects alongside the curriculum. Sponsored by Staples, the Student and Educator of the Month program encourages schools to nominate outstanding faculty members and students to be recognized at a Lakers home game. Nominations are submitted by principals and teachers of each school based on exemplary teaching efforts, or extracurricular activities. ECHS INSPIRES A TEEN TO SUCCEED From Failing Grades to College Admission When his grades dropped at his prior high school, Rigo Estrada was never offered any encouragement. He was told that his grades were very bad, and if they did not improve, he would be plucked from the school. “What was the point of trying to get to college,” he thought, “if I could not afford to go to the university I applied to?” Then, he enrolled at Environmental Charter High School, and found a place where he could blossom and grow as a student. "It was very different from what I was used to” says Rigo, who found in it a school of “fewer than 400 students where everyone was friends with each other and wanted to succeed.” ECHS, with its project-based curriculum, was a radically different place for him. At times he still wanted to give up, because the school was so challenging to him. "But I knew it was preparing me for the bigger picture—college. I went from a student with failing grades, bouncing from school to school, to a student who actually tries in school, applying my skills and talents in ways that affect the world around me.” Within a year of writing these words, he was accepted to three California State University colleges. Back to top INSPIRING PARENTS ECS works hard to contribute to its surrounding community, with events, volunteerism and partnerships. The results that blossom from this can be surprising and equally inspiring. The tremendous contribution of ECS parents Joseph and Rhonda Gorman is just such a case. For Teacher Appreciation Day, they joined with other parents to express their appreciation for our hard-working teachers. Reaching out to local companies, the Gormans enlisted Best Buy to donate a TV set for the teachers’ lounge. Then the Gormans landed a $2,000 donation and services from Kohl’s department store. Finally, thinking of ECHS while involved in refurbishing a hotel as part of his job, Mr. Gorman salvaged scores of 32” HD TV sets so they could be sold to obtain proceeds for ECS. The proceeds, more than $8,000, will support hands-on learning programs. An example of this is “Tiger Time,” a student-produced video program to communicate news and announcements. The sixty-plus-member Student Council creates and delivers the content to the school via YouTube, giving students a chance to learn the basics of television production, both in front of, and behind, the cameras. Rhonda Gorman has volunteered with them nearly every week, helping them raise funds, plan their prom and volunteered with them nearly every week, helping them raise funds, plan their prom and dances, and other activities. “Parents like Joseph and Rhonda Gorman, with their selfless contribution of so much time and energy to helping our school and young people get a better education, are truly an inspiration,” says Dr. Jenni Taylor, Principal of Environmental Charter High School. Back to top EVENTS Career Day at Environmental Charter High – March 2nd Be A Role Model – Volunteer Career Day gives students the chance to learn about a wide variety of careers. Classroom presentations by volunteer "role model” professionals give our teens insights into career possibilities. The event features speakers and exhibitors from governmental agencies, non-profits, and businesses. Presentations by elected officials add to its value for participants and students. During a half hour, volunteers share how their careers have evolved and what inspired them along the way. We guarantee that, as volunteer speaker, you’ll leave our campus just as energized from the experience as our teens! To volunteer as a speaker , email [email protected]. When: Friday, March 2, 2012 from 8:00am to 1:45pm Where: ECHS, 16315 Grevillea Ave, Lawndale, CA 90260 2nd Annual Green Schools National Conference February 27-29, 2012 Denver, Colorado Growing Green & Healthy Schools for All Children Be a part of the only national gathering of K-12 leaders and educators coming together to make their schools and districts green and healthy centers of academic excellence. Back to top OUR PARTNERS - A BIG GREEN THANK YOU! We thank our corporate, professional, and community partners for supporting us. From generous financial and in-kind assistance to time and expertise, your support is helping us inspire and educate like never before. Our many sponsors and partners Strategic Partners 50,000-plus Sponsors 5,000-plus Sponsors American Honda Foundation City of Lawndale Ahmanson Foundation Chevron Deemer Family Fund Ron Hendrixson Green Torch Manatt, Phelps & Phillips Metropolitan Water District Mazda State Farm Insurance Northrop Grumman Corporation Steinmetz Family Foundation Walton Family Foundation Earth Friendly Products Rex 3 Weingart Foundation Saban Family Foundation Raytheon Walker Talent Group LA Car Guy West Basin Partners 41 Pounds.org Hey! Tanks LA Aesthetic Edge Surgery Alex Gorosh, Filmmaker Jamah KCET Algalita Marine Research Foundation AQMD Los Angeles Social Venture Partners La Loma Development Beach Cities Cycles Landers Family Fund Bioneers Blue Sky Meadow Lawndale Elementary School District Lawndale Rotary Brand Neutral BREATHE Los Angeles Los Angeles Biodiesel Coop Los Angeles County Department of Education California Credit Union Calif. Reg'l Environmental Ed. Community Loyola Marymount University M3 Cater Green Manhattan Beach Rotary Chipotle Clear Choice Marie D. Jeffrey Foundation Opportunity Green Coalition of Essential Schools Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf Murad National Hispanic Environmental Council College Match Common Vision Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship Otis College of Art and Design Constitutional Rights Foundation Parent Institute for Quality Education Cuningham Group EarthFlow Designs Participant Media reDiscover Eco-Usable El Camino College REI Revolution Foods EmpowerHER Empowerment Works RootdownLA Santa Monica Bay Keepers Essential Living Foods Shangri-La Construction FOLAR Fred Leeds Properties Steaz Sue Chen From Lot to Spot Fruit Tree Planting Foundation Surfrider Foundation Tree Musketeers Get Hi Get Green Generation Earth Tree People UCLA Extension Get Hip Get Green Global Exchange UCLA Env. Science and Eng. UCLA Internal Med. Pediatrics Green Fest UCLA School of Public Health Green Torch GreenContributor USC Env. Science, Public Policy, Dentistry Veggie Grill Heal the Bay Back to top To unsubscribe, please reply to this message with "Unsubscribe" in the subject line or click on the following link: Unsubscribe Environmental Charter Schools 16315 Grevillea Avenue Lawndale, California 90260 US 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: March 2012 This email contains images. To v iew in brow ser please click here | Forw ard to a friend ECHS hom e new s archive support ECS EXECUTIVE MESSAGE March 2012 Executive Message Top Stories Beyond the Campus Partner Spotlight Staff Spotlight Events Partners Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) is an emerging, innovative public charter school netw ork that has been serving students in south Los Angeles County since 2001. Environm ental Charter High School (ECHS) is an aw ard-w inning public charter high school w ith a unique experiential learning design for college prep. It inspires students to learn about environmental issues facing our planet, how to become effective agents for change, how to implement local solutions to help address w orld issues, and how to educate others about these vital concerns. Environm ental Charter Middle School (ECMS) is our second public charter. It extends our innovative approach to an earlier age group, ensuring their readiness for a college prep high school. Our At a recent storytelling w orkshop w ith the Peabody aw ard w inning nonprofit, The Moth, our students “got raw ” and “got real” – sharing their stories before our community. Through the art of storytelling in a supportive environment, our students began the healing process necessary to leave behind a story they didn’t choose and to w rite their ow n story. Audience members took solace in the fact that they w eren’t alone, as each of us have our ow n story and can find strength in hearing others. Few if any in the audience failed to shed a tear (read more below). Creating a culture w here students feel comfortable to take the risks and share their stories is a key component to our learning community. Through events like The Moth and w orking w ith partners like the Nature Conservancy, w e are show ing students that healthy risk leads to great rew ards. 98% of our students graduate w ith the coursew ork needed to attend a UC or Cal State and an average of 90% of our graduates are accepted into the same. In addition to a supportive community, it's also important to expose our students to a variety of possibilities that inspire, equip, and empow er them for the risks after graduation. Most of our students at Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) come from less than fortunate backgrounds, and may be the first in their family to seek a university education. We bring subjects to life for our students, and make learning relevant for them – all w hile doing so in a learning community that helps our students tackle the big issues that may otherw ise stand in the w ay of their success! We do this through programs such as Career Day (read more), our Job Shadow ing program (read more), our Senior Thesis (read more), and College Match (read more), as w ell as Field Trips like the Ocean Institute, and internships like the LEAF program (read more). Want Solar Power Savings? Sungevity’s zerodow n solar lease program donates $1,000 to ECHS for each installation! Clickherefor a Quote. We couldn’t achieve this w ithin the four w alls of our campus alone. It takes help from our community, w hich means partnering w ith you to continue to offer our students options for unique experiences that reinforce and apply w hat they learn in class, and encourage them to pursue college, and careers of the future. If you are interested in helping us prepare young people for tomorrow ’s careers, starting w ith a college education, please contact us. We w ould love to hear from you. Alison Suffet-Diaz is the Founder and Executive Director of Environm ental Charter Schools in Law ndale, CA. TOP STORIES file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_html march 2012.zip/html march 2012/echsnewsMarch2012.html 1/7 8/15/13 schools serve Law ndale, Gardena, Inglew ood and surrounding communities. Our aw ard-w inning Green Ambassadors program for schools and educators creates experiential learning opportunities for youth to build leadership skills and address critical environmental issues facing our planet, inspiring them to continue their education after high school. Our Green Ambassadors Institute helps educators bring the program’s benefits to their schools and students around the country. Learn more ECS UPDATE: March 2012 Career Day – Gives Teens a Window into the Job World At ECS’ Annual Career Day, on March 2nd, ECHS students got a glimpse into the many career options that are open to those w ho successfully prepare for college. More than 50 professionals from business, government, medical, and entertainment/media industries w ere on hand to share their inspiring career stories and secrets to success by engaging in interactive discussions w ith small groups of students. Ernie G, comedian and one of the hottest young Latino entertainers in the country today, provided the keynote address. He is national spokesperson for the Hispanic College Fund. ECS celebrated its new partnership w ith the Sustainable Business Council of Los Angeles in a planting ceremony in the school’s new solar greenhouse. An Industry Brow n Bag Lunch, sponsored by The Veggie Grill and Freebirds World Burrito, gave presenters an opportunity to netw ork and discuss education issues. At the end of the day, ECS students hosted a “Thank You” pep rally, featuring a variety of performances in ECHS’ recycled concrete amphitheater. Students and professionals left feeling encouraged, challenged, and enlightened. Students Join Nationally Acclaimed "The Moth" Storytelling Program Six ECHS students are among the latest graduates of the nationally acclaimed The Moth storytelling program held at UCLA, w here they learned how to turn their life experiences into effective springboards to success. Plant a Seed Today Join Us Learn how you can help ECS and its unique programs inspire, grow , and prepare future civic and environmental leaders. Few in the audience failed to shed a tear w hen the ECHS students told their personal stories at the w orkshop — from the story of how having a Dow n-Syndrome sibling pushed one student to achieve, to the story of another student w ho w as taken aw ay from her parents and subjected to a broken foster care system. “This experience very likely w ill have a life-altering effect on the students w ho file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_html march 2012.zip/html march 2012/echsnewsMarch2012.html 2/7 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: March 2012 Your investment helps students gain the skills and know ledge they need for college, w ork, and the w orld. At the same time, you are helping the communities our students serve. participated. Perhaps now they can find a w ay to move beyond a story that once defined them,” said ECS founder and Executive Director Alison Suffet-Diaz. “It also had an impact on the students in the audience by show ing them that w hat you see on the outside doesn’t alw ays reflect w hat’s going on inside someone. We definitely w ant to bring this program back to our campus in the future.” By supporting our green technology and environmental projects, you w ill be helping us conserve resources for future generations. “We are so proud of these students,” said Mandy Breuer, ECHS Assistant Principal, w ho led the effort to bring The Moth w orkshop to the school. “It took a lot of nerve for these students to step in front of the microphone all by themselves and tell their very personal stories in front of the w hole school.” Contact: Executive Director Alison Suffet-Diaz Phone: (310) 214-3400 [email protected] The Moth, a New York City-based, not-for-profit organization dedicated to the art and craft of storytelling, offers live storytelling events and educational w orkshops across the country. The Moth w orkshops are designed to teach students how to shape life experiences into w ell-crafted, five-minute oral stories. The program includes the 2010 Peabody Aw ard-w inning Moth Radio Hour, airing on more than 200 public broadcasting stations nationw ide Back to top BEYOND-THE-CAMPUS LEARNING Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) 16315 Grevillea Avenue Lawndale, CA 90260 Ph: (310) 214 3400 http://www.echsonline.org Job Shadow Day: Lessons in The Workplace A partnership w ith the Inglew ood Airport Area Chamber of Commerce gave 25 ECS students the opportunity to shadow professionals on the job for a day. The Job Shadow Day at ECHS is the culmination of a yearlong initiative to provide students w ith an up-close look at how skills learned in school are put to use in the w orkplace. The Inglew ood Police Department offered students the opportunity to take a ride-along w ith local police officers. At Hollyw ood Park, students w ere able to record their ow n videos and commercials. At the Superior Court, students w orked closely w ith law yers and judges. At Inglew ood Adult School, students learned how to input student schedules, and received mentoring on financial aid for college. “The students from ECS w ere so amazing,” said Carol Raines-Brow n, member of the IUSD Board of Education, sponsor of the Inglew ood Adult School program. “They w ere articulate, w ell dressed, polite, brilliant, and just a joy to have in our office. Thank you for the opportunity to host these great students and future w orld-changers.” Back to top PARTNER SPOTLIGHT file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_html march 2012.zip/html march 2012/echsnewsMarch2012.html 3/7 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: March 2012 Nature Conservancy Picks ECS For LEAF Program The Nature Conservancy is the largest ow ner of private land in the w orld. ECS recently scored a major coup by being asked to participate in the Nature Conservancysponsored LEAF internship program. Only a few schools in California w ere selected to help LEAF expand its program. Thanks to a generous grant from Toyota, it w ill offer exceptional students opportunities for environmental conservation–related internships. For the program, six students w ill have the chance for a paid 4-w eek internship on Santa Cruz Island, w here they w ill w ork w ith UCSD faculty and Nature Conservancy staff. The students w ill live w ithout iPods, cell phones, or video games. They are allow ed one phone call per w eek, and w ill be documenting their experiences through journaling and Facebook. College Match: Going the Extra Mile To Connect ECS Students With College Thanks to our partnership w ith College Match, ECHS students w ill be packing their bags at the end of March for an exciting trip to the East Coast to visit colleges, in a journey typically reserved for only w ealthy kids. Only 3% of students at the 146 most selective colleges in the United States come from low -income families. College Match, a nonprofit, w orks to change this situation by identifying low -income high school sophomores w ith strong academic records and provides each of them w ith an intensive array of services comparable to w hat affluent students receive at elite private schools. ECHS Assistant Principal Mandy Breuer spearheads the school’s involvement w ith the College Match organization. With her help, 14 students are in the program this year. Jessica Parra, Veronica Hoyo, Graciela Guevara, Marilu de Arcos, Lillian Chase are the 5 College Match seniors. Lyn Tran, Christine Luu, Sophia Cortes, Paola Reyes, Cinthya Hernandez, Vicente Cibrian, Angela Lool, Monica Gonzalez, Janett Perez are the College Match juniors visiting colleges on the East Coast. “Through this program, w e have helped ECS students graduate and go to prestigious and Ivy League colleges,” says Breuer. “We have an unprecedented college graduation rate." Back to top Senior Thesis Ties Disciplines Together file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_html march 2012.zip/html march 2012/echsnewsMarch2012.html 4/7 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: March 2012 An integral feature of the unique curriculum at ECHS is our mandatory Senior Thesis. This project encourages students to w eave together w hat they have learned through a variety of disciplines during their time at ECS, considering the disciplines both individually and as they relate to one another. Once students have reflected on the know ledge gained, they try to apply it tow ards taking action to inspire a positive change in their community. Each student selects a topic that is both relevant to the local community and a personal concern. Traditional research is combined w ith hands-on activities, such as interview s, surveys, and community action. After turning in the w ritten reports, students present their findings in front of a panel of observers, w ho critique their presentations. “The project encourages our students to use the kind of necessary to explore and solve community-based problems Mandy Breuer, ECHS Assistant Principal. “By using a variety students become experts at solving community problems and norms of our community.” multidisciplinary thinking successfully,” explains of different lenses, our leaders in changing the Back to top STAFF SPOTLIGHT Amy Johnson Job : Math Teacher: Math Enrichment, AP Calculus. Educational Background : Masters in Music from Illinois State University; National Board Certified Teacher; Gifted and Talented Educator Certificate, University of California, Irvine. Before ECHS: 19 years of teaching. Worked as a music teacher at a laboratory high school in Illinois, and also in Manhattan Beach. On ECHS: “I love getting to know so many great students,” says Johnson. “The students here w ork so hard and are so dedicated to their studies. ECHS is a great school. I am thrilled to be a part of this unique environment for learning.” When School’s Out: “I love to go camping and hiking, and especially enjoy exploring Yosemite and Big Sur.” Back to top EVENTS Earth Day in June at ECHS, June 1, 2012 file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_html march 2012.zip/html march 2012/echsnewsMarch2012.html 5/7 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: March 2012 OUR PARTNERS - A BIG GREEN THANK YOU! We thank our corporate, professional, and community partners for supporting us. From generous financial and in-kind assistance to time and expertise, your support is helping us inspire and educate like never before. Our many sponsors and partners Strategic Partners media policy center logo 50,000-plus Sponsors 5,000-plus Sponsors American Honda Foundation Ahmanson Foundation Chevron Green Torch Manatt, Phelps & Phillips State Farm Insurance Steinmetz Family Foundation Walton Family Foundation Weingart Foundation Raytheon City of Lawndale Deemer Family Fund Ron Hendrixson Metropolitan Water District Mazda Northrop Grumman Corporation Earth Friendly Products Rex 3 Saban Family Foundation Walker Talent Group LA Car Guy West Basin Partners 41 Pounds.org Hey! Tanks LA Aesthetic Edge Surgery Jamah Alex Gorosh, Filmmaker KCET Algalita Marine Research Foundation Los Angeles Social Venture Partners AQMD La Loma Development Beach Cities Cycles Landers Family Fund Bioneers Lawndale Elementary School District Blue Sky Meadow Lawndale Rotary Brand Neutral Los Angeles Biodiesel Coop BREATHE Los Angeles Los Angeles County Department of Education California Credit Union Loyola Marymount University Calif. Reg'l Environmental Ed. Community M3 Cater Green Manhattan Beach Rotary Chipotle Marie D. Jeffrey Foundation Clear Choice Opportunity Green Coalition of Essential Schools Murad Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf National Hispanic Environmental Council College Match Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship Common Vision Otis College of Art and Design Constitutional Rights Foundation Parent Institute for Quality Education Cuningham Group Participant Media EarthFlow Designs reDiscover Eco-Usable REI El Camino College Revolution Foods EmpowerHER RootdownLA Empowerment Works Santa Monica Bay Keepers Essential Living Foods Shangri-La Construction FOLAR Steaz Fred Leeds Properties Sue Chen From Lot to Spot Surfrider Foundation Fruit Tree Planting Foundation Tree Musketeers Get Hi Get Green Tree People Generation Earth UCLA Extension file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_html march 2012.zip/html march 2012/echsnewsMarch2012.html 6/7 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: March 2012 Get Hip Get Green Global Exchange Green Fest Green Torch GreenContributor Heal the Bay UCLA Env. Science and Eng. UCLA Internal Med. Pediatrics UCLA School of Public Health USC Env. Science, Public Policy, Dentistry Veggie Grill Back to top file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_html march 2012.zip/html march 2012/echsnewsMarch2012.html 7/7 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: Spring 2012 This email contains images. To v iew in brow ser please click here | Forw ard to a friend ECHS hom e new s archive support ECS EXECUTIVE MESSAGE Spring 2012 Executive Message Every day is Earth Day at Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) because w e w eave environmental principles into our curriculum and campus design. This “green school” model is something w e have helped pioneer throughout the nation. Top Stories We are excited about recently receiving tw o prestigious aw ards for our leadership as a model green school. GreenAmbassadors Partner Spotlight The first National Green Ribbon Schools Aw ard from the U.S. Department of Education and Office of President Obama recognizes our high school as a leader in the national green education movement (see below ). Inspired Students Board Spotlight Other News Events Partners Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) We w ere also recognized for our achievements this month, as ECS received the Los Angeles County Green Leadership Aw ard (see below ). Locally, you can see our high school students taking leadership roles. For example, 10th grade students led an Eco-Fair at the ECHS campus last month to teach parents and community members about eco-friendly solutions. Students in Spanish classes led a community garden w orkshop to share sustainable gardening techniques. As w e celebrate our hard-earned recognition for multiple aw ards, w e look forw ard to continuing to grow our programs, w ith the aim of inspiring and equipping our students, tomorrow ’s green leaders, for many years to come. Thank you for your critical and continued support. Click here to GIVE NOW Jenni Taylor, EdD, is Principal of Environm ental Charter High School. Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) is an emerging, innovative public charter school netw ork that has been serving students in south Los Angeles County since 2001. Environm ental Charter High School (ECHS) is an aw ard-w inning public charter high school w ith a unique experiential learning design for college prep. It inspires students to learn about environmental issues facing our planet, how to become effective agents for change, how to implement local solutions to help address w orld issues, and how to educate others about these vital concerns. TOP STORIES Environmental Charter Wins First Ever National Green Ribbon Schools Award Environm ental Charter Middle School (ECMS) is our second public charter. It extends our innovative file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_html ecs april 2012.zip/html ecs april 2012/echsnewsApril2012.html 1/8 8/15/13 approach to an earlier age group, ensuring their readiness for a college prep high school. Our schools serve Law ndale, Gardena, Inglew ood and surrounding communities. Our aw ard-w inning Green Ambassadors program for schools and educators creates experiential learning opportunities for youth to build leadership skills and address critical environmental issues facing our planet, inspiring them to continue their education after high school. Our Green Ambassadors Institute helps educators bring the program’s benefits to their schools and students around the country. Learn more ECS UPDATE: Spring 2012 The U. S. Department of Education has aw arded the first national Green Ribbon Schools Aw ard to Environmental Charter High School. ECHS w as one of 78 schools nationw ide and one of three in Southern California that w on top honors in environmental and sustainability education. More than 350 schools applied for the aw ard. “We’re ecstatic,” exclaimed Alison Suffet, founder and executive director of ECS. “Not only is w inning the Green Ribbon Schools Aw ard an incredible honor, it’s an affirmation that w e’re on the right track. We could not be more proud of this achievement.” The Green Ribbon Schools initiative is the first comprehensive federal policy for schools related to the environment, health, and education. The U.S. Government launched the program in the 2011-12 school year to recognize public and private schools that save energy, reduce costs, feature environmentally sustainable learning spaces, protect health, foster w ellness, and offer environmental education to boost academic achievement and community engagement. “ECHS is alive – literally,” Suffet said. “Despite being just a few short blocks from a major Los Angeles freew ay, the campus has become a living, breathing, green oasis in a concrete urban setting w ith fruit trees, gardens, and a stream filled w ith fish.” In addition to its success in ecological aw areness, ECHS is a high-performing charter high school w ith more than 90% of its students admitted to four-year colleges and universities each year. The students receive a w ell-rounded education w ith a strong foundation in core subjects like science and mathematics, w hile learning to be advocates and how to practice civic action. ECHS Earns Los Angeles Green Leadership Award ECHS is a w inner of the fourth annual Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Green Leadership Aw ards, recognizing outstanding community energy conservation and environmental efforts. ECHS w as the only school selected, and joins a prestigious group of innovative programs ranging from the Santa Monica Mountains Watersheds to a medical w aste facility to public w orks projects. “The county’s Green Leadership Program promotes aw areness, responsibility and shares best practices,” said Supervisor Zev Yarolslavsky at the aw ards ceremony. “These committed individuals and entities inspire others to follow their leadership. The county is proud to honor them w ith its Green Leadership Aw ard.” Plant a Seed Today Join Us Learn how you can help ECS and its unique programs inspire, grow , and “It w as a dream to create a school w here students w ould be able to take real action informed by classroom instruction to make measurable differences in their local communities,” said Alison Suffet, founder and executive director of ECS. “This aw ard signifies our leadership from w hich others may learn.” file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_html ecs april 2012.zip/html ecs april 2012/echsnewsApril2012.html 2/8 8/15/13 prepare future civic and environmental leaders. Your investment helps students gain the skills and know ledge they need for college, w ork, and the w orld. At the same time, you are helping the communities our students serve. By supporting our green technology and environmental projects, you w ill be helping us conserve resources for future generations. Contact: Executive Director Alison Suffet-Diaz Phone: (310) 214-3400 [email protected] ECS UPDATE: Spring 2012 Back to top GREEN AMBASSADORS INSTITUTE UCLA Extension Partnership Continues Success ECS’ Green Ambassador Institute (GAI) continues its collaboration w ith UCLA Extension as it recently hosted 30 teachers on the ECS campus to provide direction, inspiration, and innovation to those eager to learn more about the highly successful green educational model employed by ECS. Green Ambassadors Institute (GAI) provides graduatelevel courses through a partnership w ith UCLA Extension. Educators learn how to use the environment as the context for interdisciplinary learning that connects students to their campus and community, and empow ers them to spread solutions beyond their school. Participants can’t stop praising their experience at the GAI conference. “We found the program to be of the highest caliber, and w e w ill never forget the experience of having Sara, Lindsey, and Vanessa lead us through this innovative and engaging program,” said Stella Ursua, President of Green Education, Inc. “Your belief in the program came through loud and clear during each and every exercise. I can only hope to facilitate this half as w ell as you all did!” Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) 16315 Grevillea Avenue Lawndale, CA 90260 Ph: (310) 214 3400 http://www.echsonline.org To learn more about how to make your school "green," and the benefits this can bring: Visit w w w .Greenambassadors.org Take a tour of our campus – visit w w w .echsonline.org Attend the Green Charter Schools Netw ork Pre-Conference at the National Charter Schools Conference – visit: http://publiccharters.org/Conference/2012/Atthe-Conference/Pre002DConferences.aspx Attend the 2012 National Charter Schools Conference! June 19 – Friday, June 22, 2012 at the Minneapolis Convention Center – visit: http://publiccharters.org/Conference/2012/Home.aspx Back to top PARTNER SPOTLIGHT BBPR, Inc. Helps ECS Spread the Word BBPR, Inc. is an aw ardw inning public relations firm serving non-profit, healthcare, education and governmental agencies. Thanks to a generous $1,000 donation, BBPR, Inc. helped sponsor ECHS’ Career Day event. The donation is on top of BBR's support of the event for a second year by helping to publicize it and present the benefits of careers in PR for our students. ECHS’ file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_html ecs april 2012.zip/html ecs april 2012/echsnewsApril2012.html 3/8 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: Spring 2012 on-campus event gives high school students a unique w indow into career possibilities by bringing professionals from a variety of business and public sector professions to speak on campus and provide mentoring for teens. Watch BBPR, Inc.'s Founder Barbara Bishop and her associate Dienna D’Olimpio on “Santa Monica Plus," the public affairs show airing on City TV in Santa Monica, w hich they produce and host. CODA: Going the Extra Mile Thanks also to our partners CODA for contributing to ECHS Career Day's Success! Back to top INSPIRED STUDENTS Inspired by the hugely popular CicLAvia, w hich brought more than 100,000 bike riders to 10-miles of blocked-off streets in dow ntow n Los Angeles, several ECHS students brought their version of the event to the 2012 Law ndale Youth Day Parade Saturday, April 28, at Alondra Park in Law ndale. Presented by ECHS' ninth grade environmental science class, along w ith the school’s Bike Shop, the event called attention to our dominant car culture and demonstrated the benefits of a car-free lifestyle. Hundreds participated as ECHS students, decked out in matching t-shirts and carrying pro-bike signs and banners rode in the 2.2-mile parade route. As part of the daylong festivities, students from the school’s Bike Shop offered bicycle safety tips and free, onthe-spot repairs. This year’s student leaders, Valeria Bautista and Nicolas Linares, ECHS seniors, have expanded the Bike Shop by recruiting more students and increasing community involvement. One popular policy engages students w ho don’t have their ow n bike: if they join the Bike Shop and fix one of the damaged bikes donated by the community, they get to keep it. “Students get really excited about it and have a great sense of accomplishment afterw ard,” explains Nicolas. Valeria agrees. “After my bike w as stolen, I replaced it w ith one from the Bike shop that I fixed. I like the bike that I have now better than my old one!” Back to top BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_html ecs april 2012.zip/html ecs april 2012/echsnewsApril2012.html 4/8 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: Spring 2012 Uduak Ntuk ECS Board Member Uduak Ntuk is committed to protecting the environment and promoting sustainability, and he is a big believer in the importance of education. In addition joining ECS' Board during the past year, his volunteerism includes serving w ith the non-profit Alliance for Climate Protection since 2006, and the USC Viterbi School of Engineering Diversity Industry Advisory Board. Though playing college football may seem like a dream come true for some, Ntuk knew it w as not w hat he w anted to do for the rest of his life. Eager for a career that w ould last many years, he left his college in Texas and enrolled in CSULB, w here he pursued engineering. His engineering studies ultimately led Ntuk to an exciting career in technology, and opportunities to study abroad in China and London. After receiving his degree in chemical engineering, he w ent on to earn his master’s degree in petroleum engineering from USC w hile w orking at Chevron. Today Ntuk is a Petroleum Engineer w ith the City of Long Beach, w here he performs complex w ork on new w ell development, production operations, and oilfield applications. Ntuk credits his studies with forging the path to his success: “A science, technology, engineering and math career path can lift people out of poverty and into comfortable living wage jobs like no other,” he explains. With his energetic volunteerism, and passion for education and helping to build a “greener” tomorrow , Ntuk is a great asset to ECS’ Board of Directors. OTHER NEWS ECHS Principal Among Environmental Expert Judges in Local Contest Jenni Taylor, principal of Environmental Charter High School, w as selected to join a panel of environmental experts to judge a trash-free lunch challenge designed to cut landfill w aste. The contest w as sponsored by the Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County. Its objective is to teach kids to reduce trash by carrying reusable containers and by sorting out compostable and recyclable materials. Three schools, including tw o in the South Bay, competed to determine w hich students w ere the most successful in reducing the amount of garbage they sent to landfills. Nolan Gould, star of ABC’s hit comedy, “Modern Family,” w as selected to present a $1,000 education grant to the w inning school. Back to top EVENTS Going to The National Charter Schools Conference? June 19-22, 2012 | Minneapolis Convention Center file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_html ecs april 2012.zip/html ecs april 2012/echsnewsApril2012.html 5/8 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: Spring 2012 Check out the Pre-Conference w orkshop hosted by Green Charter Schools Netw ork: Developing your Charter School into a Green, Healthy and Sustainable School "Green and healthy school" experts w ill help charter schools develop pathw ays to become "green schools of the future." The US Department of Education has recognized the importance of "greening American schools" w ith their Green Ribbon Schools Aw ard. Join comprehensive "green school" experts in a collaborative w orkshop that w ill help your school save resources w hile improving your students' health and academic achievement. June 19th 1:00-5:00pm Register at http://w w w .publiccharters.org/conference SAVE THE DATE Earth Day in June at ECHS, June 1, 2012 OUR PARTNERS - A BIG GREEN THANK YOU! We thank our corporate, professional, and community partners for supporting us. From generous financial and in-kind assistance to time and expertise, your support is helping us inspire and educate like never before. Our many sponsors and partners Strategic Partners file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_html ecs april 2012.zip/html ecs april 2012/echsnewsApril2012.html 6/8 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: Spring 2012 media policy center logo 50,000-plus Sponsors 5,000-plus Sponsors American Honda Foundation Ahmanson Foundation Chevron Gambassa and Green Torch Manatt, Phelps & Phillips Raytheon State Farm Insurance Steinmetz Family Foundation Walton Family Foundation Weingart Foundation Weingart Foundation AAA Flag and Banner City of Lawndale Cuningham Group Deemer Family Fund Earth Friendly Products K & F Baxter Family Foundation LA Car Guy Mazda Metropolitan Water District Northrop Grumman Corporation Rex 3 Ron Hendrixson S. Mark Taper Foundation Saban Family Foundation Shangri-La Construction Toyota Walker Talent Group West Basin Partners 41 Pounds.org Hey! Tanks LA Aesthetic Edge Surgery Jamah Alex Gorosh, Filmmaker KCET Algalita Marine Research Foundation Los Angeles Social Venture Partners AQMD La Loma Development Beach Cities Cycles Landers Family Fund Bioneers Lawndale Elementary School District Blue Sky Meadow Lawndale Rotary Brand Neutral Los Angeles Biodiesel Coop BREATHE Los Angeles Los Angeles County Department of Education California Credit Union Loyola Marymount University Calif. Reg'l Environmental Ed. Community M3 Cater Green Manhattan Beach Rotary Chipotle Marie D. Jeffrey Foundation Clear Choice Opportunity Green Coalition of Essential Schools Murad Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf National Hispanic Environmental Council College Match Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship Common Vision Otis College of Art and Design Constitutional Rights Foundation Parent Institute for Quality Education EarthFlow Designs Participant Media Eco-Usable reDiscover El Camino College REI EmpowerHER Revolution Foods Empowerment Works RootdownLA Essential Living Foods Santa Monica Bay Keepers FOLAR Steaz Fred Leeds Properties Sue Chen From Lot to Spot Surfrider Foundation Fruit Tree Planting Foundation Tree Musketeers Get Hi Get Green Tree People Generation Earth UCLA Extension Get Hip Get Green UCLA Env. Science and Eng. Global Exchange UCLA Internal Med. Pediatrics Green Fest UCLA School of Public Health Green Fest USC Env. Science, Public Policy, Dentistry GreenContributor Veggie Grill file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_html ecs april 2012.zip/html ecs april 2012/echsnewsApril2012.html 7/8 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: Spring 2012 Heal the Bay Back to top file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_html ecs april 2012.zip/html ecs april 2012/echsnewsApril2012.html 8/8 8/15/13 WE DON’T ASK OFTEN, BUT WE’RE REALLY IN NEED This email contains images. To view in brow ser click here | Forw ard to a friend PLEASE HELP OUR SCHOOLS Dear ECS Families, Partners and Friends: ECS Loses After-School Program Grant Despite Excellent Academic Achievement Environmental Charter High School is ranked in the top 1% of public schools in the country by US News and World Report BUT We are losing our much needed after-school program grant. ECHS has been granted $300,000 per year for the last five years from the California State Dept. of Education to fund our innovative after-school programs. These important programs such as electives, athletics, summer school, family outreach (and many more) have raised our students’ performance and college acceptance rates and have made us who we are today. Having succeeded in becoming a high-performing school in an underserved community however, we are no longer eligible for after-school funds since these grants are awarded to low-performing schools. Yes – it’s a very unfortunate, nowin situation. And if this is not already a devastating blow… WITHOUT YOUR HELP WE'LL LOSE THESE PROGRAMS Remediation (Catch up courses): Math & Literature labs, Saturday math, Summer School, Credit Recovery, Test Preparation classes and… Family Outreach: family literacy, financial aid, and health workshops, Parent Institute for Quality Education (PIQUE) workshops and… Extras: college tours, field trips, driver’s ed., campus care, community gardening workshopss, beach cleanups, Lawndale Youth Day Parade, Open Mic nights, Dances, and Game Nights. Additional Cuts to Education Projected In addition to the loss of the after-school program grant, basic funding for K-12 public education is also in jeopardy. The Governor’s current budget proposal for K-12 education is tied to the fate of the Governors’ tax initiative. If voters do not approve the initiative, In November 2012, there will be a $2.6 billion mid-year cut statewide on funds for K-12 public education. ECS is bracing ourselves for an additional $500,000 in mid-year cuts for our middle and high Thank you to the Koroneburg Renaissance Festival and for file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_ECS MAY 2012 APPEAL.zip/ECS MAY 2012 APPEAL/June ECS 2012 appealrv2.html their generous 1/3 8/15/13 WE DON’T ASK OFTEN, BUT WE’RE REALLY IN NEED $500,000 in mid-year cuts for our middle and high schools. After School Programs Lost The programs that kept our students safe, engaged and learning after school will disappear. Beyond all the fun they have had learning and participating - we have found involvement in these programs to be what differentiates our students from others in their college acceptances. 90% of our high school graduates are accepted to a 4-year college or university. their generous donation. Thank you to our sponsor Barbara Bishop PR for donating Disneyland tickets to support our cause. We Need Your Help! This loss of after-school funding along with potential continued statewide budget cuts is a devastating blow to our community and -- our students will feel the impact most greatly. Since some of our proudest academic accomplishments don’t happen inside a classroom , the loss of our after-school grant is especially disheartening. We look to you, our friends, fans, and family… To save our programs and support our continued success. Show your support for innovative education at ECS by, chipping in just $5 or more today. As an extra incentive - the first hundred donations of $5 or more will receive two complimentary tickets to the Koroneburg Renaissance Festival For donations of $100 dollars or more you will automatically be entered for a chance to win to 4 complimentary Disneyland Tickets. It’s easy – DONATE NOW Thank you in advance for your continued support of ECS and our students during these challenging times. Please GIVE NOW. Yours truly, Alison Suffet, Founder & Executive Director Environmental Charter Schools file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_ECS MAY 2012 APPEAL.zip/ECS MAY 2012 APPEAL/June ECS 2012 appealrv2.html 2/3 8/15/13 WE DON’T ASK OFTEN, BUT WE’RE REALLY IN NEED Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) 16315 Grevillea Avenue Law ndale, CA 90260 Ph: (310) 214 3400 http://w w w .echsonline.org To unsubscribe, please reply to this message with "Unsubscribe" in the subject line or click on the following link: Unsubscribe Environmental Charter Schools 16315 Grevillea Avenue Lawndale, California 90260 US file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_ECS MAY 2012 APPEAL.zip/ECS MAY 2012 APPEAL/June ECS 2012 appealrv2.html 3/3 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: June / July 2012 This email contains images. To v iew in brow ser please click here | Forw ard to a friend ECHS hom e new s archive support ECS EXECUTIVE MESSAGE June/July 2012 Executive Message Top Stories Partner Spotlight Inspired Students Special Report Events Partners Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) is an emerging, innovative public charter school netw ork that has been serving students in south Los Angeles County since 2001. Dear Friends of ECS, If your family or friends have kids in school in California, or you read our new s, you may have heard that schools are bracing for a possible crisis due to proposed State budget cuts. We are also losing after-school program funding, despite Environmental Charter School’s hard-w on successes that have been years in the making — and despite our achievements that have been recognized as outstanding in the educational field. Our State Academic Performance Index (API) score has risen steadily since 2005 to 810 in 2011, surpassing the state’s API grow th target. ECHS’ 2011 graduation rate of 90% far exceeded the dismal, countyw ide rate of 68%. Ninet-seven percent of our graduates exceed the admission requirements of UC/California State University schools, despite their financially disadvantaged backgrounds. In spite of these achievements, and our recognized success in the educational field — most recently w ith tw o prestigious “green” aw ards, a first-ever U.S. Department of Education “Green Ribbon” national aw ard, and a Los Angeles County Green Leadership Aw ard — w e are losing funding. (Read more below to learn how this could affect families w ith kids in public schools.) While the crisis looms, w e nevertheless continue striving to find creative w ays to sustain our successful educational programs, and bring exciting opportunities to our students. Recent examples include our partnerships w ith organizations such as The Nature Conservancy and West Basin Water District, as you’ll read below . We Need Your Help! Environm ental Charter High School (ECHS) is an aw ard-w inning public charter high school w ith a unique experiential learning design for college prep. It inspires students to learn about environmental issues facing our planet, how to become effective agents for change, how to implement local solutions to help address w orld issues, and how to educate others about these vital concerns. Environm ental Charter Middle School (ECMS) is our second public charter. It extends our innovative approach to an earlier age group, ensuring their readiness for a college prep high school. Our Our fundraising for the year ahead has begun. Community members w ho helped our after-school programs w ith donations of $5 or more recently enjoyed passes to the Koroneburg Renaissance Festival and on July 2nd w e’ll announce our raffle w inner – those w ho donated $100 or more are eligible to w in tickets for 4 to Disneyland. It’s not to late to enter the raffle by donating $100 or more before July 2nd! You can further support ECS by reserving your tickets now to join us in September for "The Walton's 40th Anniversary: Celebrating Family & Education,” benefiting Environmental Charter Middle Schools (more information and tickets below ) Thank you for your continued support. Alison Suffet Founder & Executive Director, Environm ental Charter Schools file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_June 2012 ECS HTML.zip/June 2012 ECS HTML/echsnews2012.html 1/7 8/15/13 schools serve Law ndale, Gardena, Inglew ood and surrounding communities. ECS UPDATE: June / July 2012 TOP STORIES ECHS Named to Top 1% of Schools in the Nation by US News & World Report Award Our aw ard-w inning Green Ambassadors program for schools and educators creates experiential learning opportunities for youth to build leadership skills and address critical environmental issues facing our planet, inspiring them to continue their education after high school. Our Green Ambassadors Institute helps educators bring the program’s benefits to their schools and students around the country. Learn more ECHS has w on U.S. New s & World Report’s “Best High Schools” gold medals in its national, state and charter school rankings for 2012. As the most recent testament to our academic excellence, this honor places ECHS in the top half of one percent (1%) of schools in the nation. Environmental Charter High School is ranked 95th w ithin California. In addition to its success in ecological aw areness, ECHS is a high-performing charter high school w ith more than 90% of its students admitted to four-year colleges and universities each year. The students receive a w ell-rounded education w ith a strong foundation in core subjects like science and mathematics, w hile learning to be advocates and how to practice civic action. Back to top PARTNERING TO DO MORE WITH LESS $ ECS Taps The Nature Conservancy to Bring Students Summer Internships First-time Award to a California School The Nature Conservancy, the w orld’s largest environmental conservation non-profit organization, announced that 11 students from ECHS have earned coveted spots in its Leaders in Environmental Action for the Future (LEAF) program. Thanks to ECS’ partnership initiative, the students, many of w hom have never left Los Angeles, let alone spent time in the w ilderness, w ill participate in a paid internship program this summer. Plant a Seed Today Join Us Learn how you can help ECS and its unique programs inspire, grow , and prepare future civic and environmental leaders. Students w ill w ork alongside Conservancy scientists on Santa Cruz Island and in Montana’s Centennial Sandhills Preserve to protect and restore habitat, save endangered species and remove non-native plants, w hile learning about careers in conservation. They w ill also visit colleges, and experience camping, kayaking, and sw imming. “We couldn’t be prouder of these students,”said Alison Suffet, founder and executive director of Environmental Charter Schools (ECS). “The Nature Conservancy They’ve never cam ped under the stars before. Never inhaled the cool file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_June 2012 ECS HTML.zip/June 2012 ECS HTML/echsnews2012.html 2/7 8/15/13 Your investment helps students gain the skills and know ledge they need for college, w ork, and the w orld. At the same time, you are helping the communities our students serve. By supporting our green technology and environmental projects, you w ill be helping us conserve resources for future generations. Contact: Executive Director Alison Suffet-Diaz Phone: (310) 214-3400 [email protected] ECS UPDATE: June / July 2012 internships are incredible, chance-of-alifetime opportunities to learn the importance of environmental preservation in remarkable real-life settings. Undoubtedly, students' experiences in Montana and on Santa Cruz Island w ill positively influence the course of the rest of their lives. Getting paid to do it is icing on the cake,” Suffet added. crisp air after clim bing a m ountain peak. Never tasted the salty spray from a sailboat’s deck. Once they do, they’ll discover new strengths, overcom e fears, and develop a richer sense of them selves and their w orld. Outdoor and Experiential Learning With the assistance of a $3.1 million grant trips are core to the innovative from the Toyota USA Foundation, this curriculum that m akes ECHS unique. comprehensive environmental-leadership program for teenagers and their educators now serves approximately 20 environmental high schools across the country. “The main goal of our LEAF program is to engage urban youth w ith environmental learning in hopes of fostering a passion for our planet that w ill stick w ith them both personally and professionally for the rest of their lives,” said Mike Sw eeney, executive director of The Nature Conservancy. “Providing students w ith the opportunity to participate in actual conservation projects in ecologically sensitive places is a great complement to their classroom learning and gives them hands-on experience they may not otherw ise get during the school year.” Learn more about the LEAF program and get to know the California interns in a cool slide show here Back to top Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) 16315 Grevillea Avenue Lawndale, CA 90260 Ph: (310) 214 3400 INSPIRED STUDENTS ECHS Student-Built Boat in Nation’s Largest Solar-Powered Boat Competition http://www.echsonline.org ECHS’ student team built a 16-foot solar-pow ered boat that recently navigated the 1.6 kilometer race course in the nation’s largest solar boat competition, the Metropolitan Water District’s Solar Cup™. Solar Cup is a team-based educational competition that allow s students to apply their skills in math, physics, engineering and communications, w hile learning about Southern California’s w ater sources, resource management, conservation and alternative energy development. “What makes this competition so unique compared to other sciencebased events is that it’s interdisciplinary,” explains an organizer. “Solar Cup provides students w ith hands-on, realw orld applications to solving today’s challenges in w ater and energy by using green technologies like solar pow er.” With the school’s support, ECHS, students w orked nights and w eekends to maximize their boats’ endurance, speed, mechanical and electrical efficiencies. Over the past few months, w orking w ith the West Basin Water District, they have equipped boats w ith solar panels, batteries, electrical systems, drive trains, propellers and rudders. Back to top file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_June 2012 ECS HTML.zip/June 2012 ECS HTML/echsnews2012.html 3/7 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: June / July 2012 SPECIAL REPORT How the State Educational Budget Crises and the Loss of After-School Funding Hurts Families The Burton family has been part of the ECS family from the start. Cynthia Burton came to the school w hen it opened and w as in its first graduating class in 2005. Family matriarch Wanda Burton is a single mom in her late 70s w ith 10 children – the youngest seven adopted as infants. In 2011-12, four Burton children, plus Wanda’s granddaughter and a nephew attended ECHS. Critical electives, remedial programming, athletics, summer school and family outreach all kept six Burton kids safe, engaged, and learning after school at ECHS betw een 2006 and 2012. Jamie Burton learned invaluable lessons in leadership, organization, marketing, and planning from ECHS’ after school programs. He w ill carry these skills and know ledge w ith him as he heads off to Morehouse College, a private, all-male, historically African American college in Atlanta, next fall – and beyond. But the ECS programs that benefited older Burton family members are slated to end — leaving current students from the family — Joseph, Arturo, and Nicholas — w ithout the same educational options as their predecessors. The loss of after-school funding along with looming statewide budget cuts is a devastating blow to our community – both students and their families are impacted. Let’s work together and make sure it doesn’t come to that. The prospect of losing critical after-school programs that have so benefitted all of her children is tragic to Wanda Burton – not just for her family, but also for families statew ide… and even society at large. What does this mean to families like the Burtons? Students w ho struggle to keep up w ith their academics and cannot afford private tutoring w ill fall behind. Without the extra care and attention that after-school programs afford, many w ill lose their motivation to learn. How will kids and teens spend the extra time if programs are cut? “If they’re not in school, they’ll likely be out on the streets causing trouble,” in Burton’s view , one that is shared by many. Working parents suffer w hen after-school programs are cut. Without structured after-school activities for their kids, w orking parents also face more childcare and transportation challenges in their w orkdays as they struggle to meet increased childcare obligations. WITHOUT YOUR HELP WE'LL LOSE THESE PROGRAMS Rem ediation (Catch-up courses): Math & Literature labs, Saturday math, Summer School, credit recovery, test preparation classes and… Fam ily Outreach: family literacy, financial aid, and health w orkshops, Parent Institute for Quality Education (PIQUE) w orkshops and… Extras: college tours, field trips, driver’s ed., campus care, community gardening w orkshops, beach cleanups, Law ndale Youth Day Parade, Open Mic nights, Dances, and game nights. file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_June 2012 ECS HTML.zip/June 2012 ECS HTML/echsnews2012.html 4/7 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: June / July 2012 Back to top EVENTS Tickets Now On Sale! Join Us To Benefit ECHS on September 29ht The Walton’s 40th Anniversary Reunion Celebrating Family & Education Benefiting Environmental Charter Middle School” Saturday, September 29, 2012 at 6:00pm PDT until 8:30 PDT Join many of your favorites from the cast of the 1970s hit TV show “The Waltons” – including our Kami Cotler, ECMS Principal, and other special guests and performers! Proceeds from the event go to Environmental Charter Middle School (EMCS). EMCS offers students a small, caring school environment that supports their transition from elementary school and prepares them for high school success. Event Location: The historic Wilshire Ebell Theatre, 4401 West 8th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90005 Tickets Available Online at w w w .w altons40th.com The event is sponsored by GMC. Uplifting Entertainm ent And Thank You For Giving! Thank you Koroneburg Old World Renaissance Festival for your generous donation of complimentary passes for our donors. Thank you BBPR, Inc.for providing Disneyland Tickets for our raffle. We are extending our campaign to raise money to reinstate our after-school programs through the summer, so please consider giving now. Click the button to give. We would like to thank the following individuals for responding to our urgent appeal for donations: Dominique Akens | Yolanda Alaniz | Gabriel Avenna | Shirlene Bauer-Maheia | Emil and Amanada Beheshti | Liz and Dale Bell | Leslie Belsma | Ricardo Calderon | Janis Castaneda | Kami Cotler | Eduardo De Anda | Eric Delima | Julie Du Brow | Nikki Ector | Audrey English | Michelle Estrada | Alla Felker | Angelica Gamboa | Sofie and Gloria Gamboa | Maria Gonzalez | Brian Gonzalez | Bruce Greenspon | Maria Herde-Acosta | Roth Herrlinger | Nick Heyming | Cynthia Hodges | Dan Jensen | Sona Kalapura | Jonathan Katz | Mary Ann Livingston | Hannah MacLaren | Rachel Malarich | Khadijah Moaning | Janet Moon | Alfonso Morales | Marcela Paez | Mariela Pereyra | Tita Peterson | Chris Pine | Bonnie Pow ers | Liz Ramirez | Diana Rickert | Carolyn Rios | Carmen Rivera | Rigo Rodriguez | Irene Silver | Todd file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_June 2012 ECS HTML.zip/June 2012 ECS HTML/echsnews2012.html 5/7 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: June / July 2012 Steiner | Quynh Tran | Maria Trejo | Celeste Turner | Stella Ursua | Mary Ellen Vojtek | Jon Witt | OUR PARTNERS - A BIG GREEN THANK YOU! We thank our corporate, professional, and community partners for supporting us. From generous financial and in-kind assistance to time and expertise, your support is helping us inspire and educate like never before. Our many sponsors and partners Strategic Partners media policy center logo 50,000-plus Sponsors 5,000-plus Sponsors American Honda Foundation Ahmanson Foundation Chevron Gambassa and Green Torch Manatt, Phelps & Phillips Raytheon State Farm Insurance Steinmetz Family Foundation Walton Family Foundation Weingart Foundation Weingart Foundation AAA Flag and Banner City of Lawndale Cuningham Group Deemer Family Fund Earth Friendly Products K & F Baxter Family Foundation LA Car Guy Mazda Metropolitan Water District Northrop Grumman Corporation Rex 3 Ron Hendrixson S. Mark Taper Foundation Saban Family Foundation Shangri-La Construction Toyota Walker Talent Group West Basin Partners 41 Pounds.org Hey! Tanks LA Aesthetic Edge Surgery Jamah Alex Gorosh, Filmmaker KCET Algalita Marine Research Foundation Los Angeles Social Venture Partners AQMD La Loma Development Beach Cities Cycles Landers Family Fund Bioneers Lawndale Elementary School District Blue Sky Meadow Lawndale Rotary Brand Neutral Los Angeles Biodiesel Coop BREATHE Los Angeles Los Angeles County Department of Education California Credit Union Loyola Marymount University Calif. Reg'l Environmental Ed. Community M3 Cater Green Manhattan Beach Rotary Chipotle Marie D. Jeffrey Foundation Clear Choice Opportunity Green Coalition of Essential Schools Murad file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_June 2012 ECS HTML.zip/June 2012 ECS HTML/echsnews2012.html 6/7 8/15/13 ECS UPDATE: June / July 2012 Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf College Match Common Vision National Hispanic Environmental Council Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship Otis College of Art and Design Constitutional Rights Foundation EarthFlow Designs Eco-Usable El Camino College EmpowerHER Empowerment Works Essential Living Foods FOLAR Fred Leeds Properties From Lot to Spot Fruit Tree Planting Foundation Get Hi Get Green Generation Earth Get Hip Get Green Global Exchange Green Fest Green Fest GreenContributor Heal the Bay Parent Institute for Quality Education Participant Media reDiscover REI Revolution Foods RootdownLA Santa Monica Bay Keepers Steaz Sue Chen Surfrider Foundation Tree Musketeers Tree People UCLA Extension UCLA Env. Science and Eng. UCLA Internal Med. Pediatrics UCLA School of Public Health USC Env. Science, Public Policy, Dentistry Veggie Grill Back to top file:///C:/Users/isha/AppData/Local/Temp/Temp1_June 2012 ECS HTML.zip/June 2012 ECS HTML/echsnews2012.html 7/7 7/21/13 New YEAR! New LOOK! FORWARD TO A FRIEND Environmental Charter Schools Septem ber New s 2012 New YEAR! New LOOK! You may not have mentioned it, but we knew... we needed a makeover! We’re excited to officially present our new school branding in the form of this new-looking newsletter. Our entirely new website launches soon and our new logo - don’t you love it?! - has been seen showing up at events, on campus, on student uniforms and staff gifts already. (story continues...) We hope you like how our logos ‘grow’ from Middle to High School and ‘culminate’ in the ECS network of schools mark. As our network of schools grows, we are creating powerful expressions and structures to support our mission. The new look, new web presence and our new Middle School campus (coming in 2013!) are benchmarks for our moving forward toward a bright and big future. Stay tuned for our website launch and more news on our new Middle School site ... Thank you to Haily Zaki, Sarah Shewey and Alli Takido - our brand development consulting team - for your work and support through this new branding process! us5.campaign-archive1.com/?u=bfa5654079efbef95d3c3272d&id=63dba8a3a7 1/6 7/21/13 New YEAR! New LOOK! Not Just Another Day at the Beach Among the many “How I spent my summer vacation” stories heard on campus when students returned to classes this fall, 14 seniors related tales of life-changing experiences. Slideshow and KPCC radio story follows... (story continues...) Month-long internships with The Nature Conservancy’s LEAF program took 11 seniors to Santa Cruz Island (click to link to: KPCC slideshow and radio story) and Montana -- far from their comfortable, urban lifestyles to remote areas where they participated in important scientific and environmental projects. Four others traveled to Louisiana, Pennsylvania and Texas to participate in the prestigious Earthwatch Institute Fellowship program, which brings together global scientists, corporate and nonprofit partners, teachers, students and volunteers to engage in scientific field research and education aimed at promoting a sustainable environment. “It’s amazing to see how much these students have changed in such a short period of time,” shared Vice Principal Mandy Breuer. “Their eyes have been opened to all sorts of new opportunities and now they’re on fire to do something amazing – to really make a difference in the world.” The Nature Conservancy LEAF Program We’re proud of our ECHS seniors who earned coveted spots in The Nature Conservancy’s Leaders in Environmental Action for the Future (LEAF) program: Keira Adams, Alejandra Bautista, Justice Davis, Stephanie us5.campaign-archive1.com/?u=bfa5654079efbef95d3c3272d&id=63dba8a3a7 2/6 7/21/13 New YEAR! New LOOK! Echeverria, Alfonso Macias, Ashley Rios, Glenda Sanchez, Sharon Tam, Patrick Valenzuela, Lenie Ventura and Mohamed “Mo” Younes. How’s THIS for resume-building experience? Paid, to boot! During the course of the month-long internships, the students worked alongside Conservancy scientists to protect and restore habitat, save endangered species and remove non-native plants while learning about careers in conservation. In addition to completing four paid work weeks, the interns visited three colleges and enjoyed camping, kayaking and swimming. Earthwatch Institute Fellowship Keira Adams (yes, she was accepted to both programs!) Esteban Gonzalez, Felipe Ontiveros and Sophia Cortes congratulations on your fellowships! Earthwatch’s mission is to engage people worldwide in scientific field research and education in order to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment. As Earthwatch Student Fellows, our four seniors joined a diverse and prestigious community of scientists, educators, students, and businesspeople working together to find creative ways to respond to the defining challenges of our generation. “The experiences have been huge confidence boosters, too,” Vice Principal Breuer added, emphasizing that for some of the students who previously had not been super-high-achievers academically, just being accepted into the programs has fueled a new drive and determination to excel in school – and beyond. us5.campaign-archive1.com/?u=bfa5654079efbef95d3c3272d&id=63dba8a3a7 3/6 7/21/13 New YEAR! New LOOK! All for One = Double for All: 5K Matching Grant is ON With the new school year comes a heightened sense of urgency to overcome the financial challenge of losing our $300K after-school programs grant from the state. At ECHS, challenges bring opportunities and we’re encouraged to have this great opportunity to share: (story continues...) Help us raise at least $5,000 by this Oct. 31 and we’ll receive a matching grant of $5000 from the Frieda C. Fox Family Foundation! Our fundraising efforts won’t end here, but your donations will empower us on our road to recover losses for programs like summer school, test prep, family literacy and financial aid workshops, plus dances and field trips. Please give today – and urge other friends of ECHS you know to give. For more information about the Frieda C. Fox Family Foundation grant and to make your donation, visit www.ecsonline.org/donate. “Losing our after-school programs funding is devastating – above all, to our students,” said Alison Suffet Diaz, ECS founder and executive director. “Some of our students’ greatest accomplishments don’t happen inside a classroom, so losing our after-school grant is a bitter pill to swallow. We are urgently looking for ways to save our extracurricular programs and activities for the kids.” While administrators, teachers and board us5.campaign-archive1.com/?u=bfa5654079efbef95d3c3272d&id=63dba8a3a7 4/6 7/21/13 New YEAR! New LOOK! of directors rally other fundraising efforts, ECHS is proud and invigorated to be part of the Frieda C. Fox Family Foundation matching grant challenge. This “all or none” challenge inspires us to forge ahead in our community campaign. ECHS must raise at least $5,000 in eligible contributions to qualify for the matching grant funds. For those of you who donated during the summer and those who will donate today, we appreciate your commitment to innovative education and the students we serve. For more information about the Frieda C. Fox Family Foundation grant and to make your donation, visit www.ecsonline.org/donate. Upcoming EVENTS The Waltons' Fundraiser for MIDDLE School - Sept. 29 Green Apple Day of Service at HIGH School - Sept. 29 Now seeking CAREER DAY speakers for HIGH School - Nov. 9 Did you know? Our Green Ambassadors Institute (GAI) offers UCLA accredited teacher-training. Learn to implement our awardwinning best practices and curriculum. More info on this October's GAI class us5.campaign-archive1.com/?u=bfa5654079efbef95d3c3272d&id=63dba8a3a7 5/6 7/21/13 Sneak a Peek of Our New School! + HS Career Day FORWARD TO A FRIEND Environmental Charter Schools October 2012 "Teachers at ECMS will never give up on you. They will always push you towards your dreams." - Elton, Middle Schooler ECHS Career Day On Friday November 9th, environmental and community leaders from diverse fields come to school to inspire students with stories of their career challenges, epiphanies, triumphs and unforgettable moments. New Middle School Campus Excitement is building as completion of our us5.campaign-archive2.com/?u=bfa5654079efbef95d3c3272d&id=710cea51ba 1/2 7/21/13 Sneak a Peek of Our New School! + HS Career Day new Environmental Charter Middle School – Gardena (ECMS-G) nears and we get ready to welcome students in 2013. Here's a sneak peek... Upcoming TOURS > November 6th > December 4th > December 18th Come visit our Green Ribbon Campus (photo credit: w w w .amyw illiamsphoto.com) FORWARD THIS EMAIL TO A FRIEND You are receiving this email because you have signed up for our new sletter, came for a campus tour or met us at an event. | If you no longer w ish to receive emails please unsubscribe © 2012 Environmental Charter Schools, All rights reserved us5.campaign-archive2.com/?u=bfa5654079efbef95d3c3272d&id=710cea51ba 2/2 8/15/13 You're in Good Company: Those Who Gave and Support ECS Facebook | Tw itter | Visit Website Environmental Charter Schools December 2012 This time of year and always, we remain grateful to supporters and donors like you who support unique and impactful learning opportunities for our students. Happy Holidays to you and yours! $100K from State Farm Will Support Mentorship and Community Programs A huge THANK YOU to the State Farm® Youth Advisory Board for awarding ECS a $100,000 grant to fund our new Youth Ecology Center You Did It And you're in good company. Your generous donations were matched! Deep thanks go to you - our donors and grantors. You helped us raise much needed funds for our after-school programs and educational initiatives. Read more to see who gave... us5.campaign-archive1.com/?u=bfa5654079efbef95d3c3272d&id=c7f51fa9db 1/2 8/15/13 You're in Good Company: Those Who Gave and Support ECS "Row Row" Your Solar Boat The West Basin Municipal Water District has chosen Environmental Charter High School to receive a sponsorship and a place to compete in their 10th Annual Solar Cup Competition. Our students are proud to be part of the Solar Cup an exciting STEM, boat-building/boatracing/water conservation program. You are receiving this email because you have signed up for our new sletter, came for a campus tour or met us at an event. If you no longer w ish to receive emails please unsubscribe © 2012 Environmental Charter Schools, All rights reserved us5.campaign-archive1.com/?u=bfa5654079efbef95d3c3272d&id=c7f51fa9db 2/2