Newsletter | Friday, February 14, 2025

Senator John Laird Visits MCOE’s Discovery STEAM Academy, Championing Early Learning

Monterey County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deneen Guss and Assistant Superintendent of Student Services Dr. Ernesto Vela and the Early Learning Program team members welcomed Senator John Laird to the Monterey County Office of Education’s Early Learning Program (ELP) Discovery STEAM Academy, located at Hartnell College’s East Campus.

During the visit, site teachers and staff highlighted the classroom’s hands-on approach to science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), designed to foster student inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking. Senator Laird's visit underscored the commitment of local and state leaders to expanding high-quality early learning opportunities for young students.

Students eagerly showcased their learning, identifying colors, counting numbers, and exploring local agriculture by learning about fruits and vegetables grown in the region. They proudly demonstrated their developing skills, creativity, and enthusiasm for learning, engaging with the Senator as they shared their classroom experiences.

County Superintendent’s School Visits Foster Collaboration and Student Achievement

Monterey County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deneen Guss and Deputy Superintendent Dr. Ralph Porras visited the Mission Union School District on Thursday, January 30. During their visit, they met with Superintendent Ricardo Espinoza and engaged with members of the Associated Student Body (ASB), who conducted interviews with Dr. Guss and Dr. Porras, shared their experiences in student leadership, and led an insightful tour showcasing newly implemented programs, including the Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP).

These site visits, part of a yearlong series, provide valuable opportunities to observe innovative teaching practices, assess school needs, and witness student engagement firsthand. By regularly visiting schools across the county, Dr. Guss and MCOE reaffirm their commitment to leading, supporting, and partnering with districts to enhance student and educator success. These ongoing collaborations help address resource needs and ensure students have access to the tools and environments necessary to thrive.

Through these visits, MCOE continues to strengthen its partnerships with district leaders, working collectively to support and advance Monterey County’s educational community.

Third Grade Students Get Hands-On Learning at South County Farm Day in King City

Each year, hundreds of individuals volunteer their time at three Farm Day events throughout Monterey County - in Salinas, King City, and Monterey - a memorable day for thousands of local 3rd grade students. On Thursday, January 25, South County elementary school students gathered at the Salinas Valley Fairgrounds in King City for their annual Farm Day event.

Farm Day hosts local agriculture businesses that come together to showcase their industry and help increase students' agricultural literacy and awareness by teaching them aspects such as food safety and processing. During this unique event, students learn about farming, healthy eating, recycling, agricultural technology, and more through hands-on exhibits. Students experience farm animals first-hand and express joy and a playful curiosity when they see and feel them up close.

Organized and funded by Monterey County Agricultural Education, a non-profit organization of agriculturalists, educators, and dedicated community members, Farm Day is an excellent learning opportunity for students and ultimately provides them with a unique opportunity to gain relevant knowledge about the industry leaders in Monterey County that grow and distribute the food we eat.

Students Prepare for the 14th Regional Migrant Education Speech and Debate Tournament

This month began the start of the annual Migrant Education Speech and Debate Tournament training for both students and coaches, hosted by the local Migrant Education Region XVI. The Coaches gathered in Salinas in mid-January for a two-day training that included approximately 80 new and returning coaches across 18 participating Migrant Education regions. Both speech and debate coaches participated in training to prepare for their work with students in either speech or debate. Essential elements of both competitions - speech and debate - were explained. A part of the training also focused on understanding the judges' scoring rubrics. For added emphasis, a scripted mock debate walked the coaches through all of the phases of a debate from start to finish.

The student training was held on two different dates on Friday, January 24 at the Salinas City Center and again on Tuesday, January 28 at MCOE Room A/B. The training helped students work on developing their speech and debate skills in order to be successful during the competition. Students will compete in either speech or the debate modality. Preparatory work includes doing in-depth research into the assigned topics, preparing and refining multiple iterations of written statements and essays, and extensive practice delivering their positions orally. On behalf of MCOE, we wish all students participating in this year’s annual tournament the best of luck!

MCOE Employees Engage in Heart Health Awareness Event

MCOE employees came together to recognize National Wear Red Day and raise awareness about heart health during a special employee engagement activity hosted by the Business and Finance Division. On Friday, February 7, staff members visited the Business Services Internal Services Office to pick up red heart-shaped stress balls and informational flyers on cardiovascular disease.

The event served as a reminder of MCOE’s commitment to keeping employees healthy, engaged, and connected. By providing opportunities to take a break, connect with colleagues, and learn more about important health topics, MCOE continues to foster a supportive and informed workplace. Many employees embraced the theme by wearing red, symbolizing their support for heart health awareness. Against a striking red informational backdrop, participants also took photos to commemorate the occasion.

2024-25 Inside Education Cohort Resumes February 21

The 2024-2025 Inside Education Monterey County Cohort will begin its next tour on Friday, February 21. Guests who sign up to experience this unique hands-on experience will dive deep into the topic of Career Technical Education and Project-Based Learning in Monterey County Schools.

Inside Education Monterey County provides participants with a first-hand, interactive look at local educational programs, services, and partnerships. Each half-day session focuses on a specific theme/curricular area and includes site visits. The program is free to participants, with two more tours remaining.

To register to join the next Inside Education Monterey County tour, visit montereycoe.org/inside-education.

Join MCOE's Annual Job Fair and Start Your Career in the New Year!

MCOE's Annual Job Fair is happening on Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Hartnell College in Salinas. The Job Fair is an excellent opportunity for those who are seeking a career in K-12 education. Representatives from MCOE and Monterey County School Districts will be ready to meet and interact with potential candidates!

To see a current list of open positions, please visit edjoin.org/montereycoe.

New Employee Spotlight: MCOE Welcomes New Senior Director of Alternative Education

The Monterey County Office of Education is pleased to welcome William “Bill” Roderick as the new Senior Director of Alternative Education. With a strong commitment to serving at-promise students, Roderick aims to help them realize their potential, maximize their opportunities, and prepare for life beyond school. In this role, he will also support staff in their mission to provide meaningful and impactful education.

Roderick began his educational journey at Yuba Community College before transferring to California State University, Chico, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Social Science. He later obtained a Master’s of Education in Cross-Cultural Studies from National University.

With a diverse professional background, Roderick holds a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and an Administrative Services Credential. He has taught reading, geography, and physical education before transitioning to alternative education, where he worked at a community school for expelled youth. His leadership experience includes serving as an assistant principal in both alternative education and a comprehensive high school, followed by 13 years as a high school principal. Prior to joining MCOE, he spent over four years in administrative and superintendent roles at the county office level.

Outside of work, Roderick is deeply family-oriented, having been married for 30 years and raising two adult daughters. In his free time, he enjoys playing golf. A devoted fan of the San Francisco 49ers, Giants, and Golden State Warriors, he remains enthusiastic and hopeful, embracing the ups and downs of Bay Area sports.

If you’d like to connect with Bill or have questions for the Alternative Education Department, feel free to visit his office located in Building 14 in West Campus. He can be reached via email at wroderick@montereycoe.org or by phone at 831.755.0300, extension 1223.

Region 5 California County Superintendents Hosted Statewide Leaders in Monterey

Monterey County recently hosted an important gathering of educational leaders as Region 5 California County Superintendents welcomed their colleagues to the January 2025 General Membership Meeting. Held on January 27-28 in Monterey, the event brought together superintendents from across the state to collaborate, share best practices, and discuss key initiatives shaping the future of education in California.

Representing Region 5 were Dr. Deneen Guss of Monterey County, Krystal Lomanto of San Benito County, Dr. Charles Hinman of Santa Clara County, and Dr. Faris Sabbah of Santa Cruz County, who were honored to host their fellow superintendents. This gathering provided a valuable opportunity for leaders to engage in meaningful discussions on educational policies, student achievement, and strategies to support schools and communities.

The California County Superintendents provides the organizational mechanism for the 58 County Superintendents of Schools to design and implement statewide programs to identify and promote quality cost-effective educational practices and services and provide support to school districts in the areas of student services, curriculum and instructional services, fiscal accountability and business services, personnel services, and technology and telecommunications. The 58 superintendents convene in person three times per year to discuss emerging topics in K-12 education and to share best practices.

As always, these meetings serve as a critical platform for collaboration, ensuring that county offices of education remain aligned in their efforts to provide high-quality support to schools, educators, and students. Monterey’s scenic setting and warm hospitality provided the perfect backdrop for these essential conversations.

With the commitment and leadership of Region 5 superintendents, the momentum from this meeting will continue to drive positive change in education across the region and beyond.

MCSBA Hosts Training for School Board Members Countywide

The Monterey County School Boards Association (MCSBA) annually conducts a series of trainings to ensure that school district board members are provided the best possible insight on hot topics related to school board governance. These high-quality training opportunities are tailored specifically for school board members and school district superintendents across Monterey County.

On Thursday, January 23, the MCSBA invited school board members to attend a training entitled: “How Not to Be a Terrible School Board Member.” This topic, based on a book written by veteran School Board Member Richard E. Mayer, takes a humorous approach to how administrator-board relations can sometimes present negative behavior scenarios. It then analyzes the situations and offers alternatives to provide win-win solutions. The goal of the training was to help school board members understand the best ways to navigate difficult situations and how to work with their superintendent to have well-functioning and collaborative governance teams. Additionally, salient points included the expectations of a school board member and how to perform their responsibilities well alongside their fellow board members.

Young Farmers & Ranchers Scholarships

Central Coast Young Farmers & Ranchers, Monterey County Farm Bureau, and American AgCredit are pleased to award scholarships each year to deserving students who desire a career in food production or ranching. Central Coast Young Farmers & Ranchers works hard to give back to the agricultural community through fundraiser events, bar-b-que services and support of other agricultural non-profit organizations.

ELIGIBILITY

Applicants may be incoming college freshmen, starting or continuing students at a Junior College, Community College, or four-year University, or transferring to a four-year college or university.
Must have attended and graduated from high school within Monterey or San Benito Counties.
Collegiate curriculum area of study and expected degree must be in Agriculture / AgriBusiness.
Strong consideration is based off the essay question.
Grade point average, extra-curricular activities, and financial need will be considered.
Recipient must show proof of enrollment and maintain 12 units or more each semester/quarter during the 2024-2025 academic year to receive funds.

Application submission deadline is Friday, March 28, 2025. You can find more information and the application form montereycfb.com/scholarships.

California Rodeo Salinas Scholarship

The California Rodeo Salinas is excited to offer $5,000 scholarships to committee members and their family members for any school they choose to attend, including trade schools. The application period closes March 15, 2025

Learn more and apply by visiting the Community Foundation for Monterey County web page for the California Rodeo Scholarship. In order to apply, sign up for an account at cfmco.academicworks.com/users/sign_up.

For more information on scholarship criteria and eligibility, visit the California Rodeo Salinas scholarships webpage: carodeo.com/p/about-us/community/scholarships.

California Rodeo Salinas Cowboy Poetry

California Rodeo Salinas invites the community to a Cowboy Gathering of poetry and performers. Tickets sales include a barbecue dinner along with the show. The event will take place on March 29, 2025 starting at 6:00 p.m. at the Salinas Sports Complex. Performers include Trinity Seely, who was a crowd favorite back in 2023, and Andy Nelson.

This is the fourth time the California Rodeo Salinas will produce the Cowboy Poetry Gathering in honor of the great man and renowned cowboy poet, Clem Albertoni. To learn more, visit carodeo.com/events/2025/clemalbertonicowboygathering

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Sharing information with the community is important to us. If you have information pertaining to education in Monterey County, such as events or scholarship opportunities that you would like to see featured in the MCOE newsletter, please email the information, including photos or flyers, to communications@montereycoe.org, and we will review your request. Thank you for your support!

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