News from Across Rowland Unified School District (July 2, 2024)

The Kinders in Community program this summer prepares our youngest learners for Kindergarten with engaging hands-on activities and special presentations. The program is hosted at Rorimer Elementary, Shelyn Elementary, Ybarra Academy, and Villacorta Elementary.

Pictured: A special guest discusses what it is like to be an Aerospace Engineer! Students discover the forces of flight by building their own airplane and learn what lift, weight, drag and thrust is.

VIDEO: Click here to watch video snippet!

Kids learn about aerodynamics with kites to demonstrate drag and resistance.

VIDEO: Using a parachute, students learn about "area," the space inside of something flat. The more area there is, the more drag there will be in aerodynamics.

On June 13, 2024, Rowland Adult & Community Education (RACE) held their Class of 2024 graduation and honored 51 adult students who received their high school diploma or equivalency certificate. RACE is WASC accredited and proud to serve the community with a wide range of educational services to more than 5,000 students. Courses include: English as a Second Language, Citizenship, High School Diploma, High School Equivalency, Parent Education, and Older Adult classes. Classes are held at multiple locations throughout RUSD and online. Registration for the fall semester begins July 22! RACE is located at 2100 Lerona Avenue, just south of Killian Elementary in Rowland Heights. For further information please visit race.rowlandschools.org or call (626)965-5975.

Rowland Adult & Community Education (RACE) graduate Pearl Wong...at 75 years young went back to school to get her diploma.

"When you finally graduate, there is a feeling of such PRIDE, I did it!"

When you meet Pearl Wong, there is a ferocious tenacity about her. It is clear, there is no stopping her when she sets her mind to something. This savvy senior went back to get her high school diploma and not only walked across the stage, but was one of the keynote speakers at the Rowland Adult and Community Education graduation.

“I am doing things a round about way,” she says laughing. “I worked and now I am finishing school, but this time, I am doing it for me. I think I am going to my mom and dad’s graves and tell them I got it! It took a little longer than the rest of us, but I finally did it!”

Wong, who lives in Diamond Bar, decided in 2021 to go back and get her diploma. She worked for 41 years as a box girl and then cashier at Alpha Beta and Ralphs. She shared that going back to school was a bit scary but also fun because she learned so much. When growing up her family didn’t speak English so school was difficult for her. This time, her teachers at RACE paved the way for her success. “My teacher Mr. Wilder was incredibly patient with me. I am so appreciative for all that he and the staff did for me,” said Wong.

A few months ago, Wong stepped on a college campus for the first time. Now she has a new goal, she is headed for Mt. San Antonio College!

“My kids went to college and now my grandkids are an inspiration to me. You know what? I want to get an AA like my granddaughter! I told her you are not following my footsteps, I am following yours!”

Pictured Above: Pearl Wong with her children and grandchildren at the RACE Graduation Ceremony.

Jose Morales never thought he would tackle going back to school for his high school diploma 24 years later. During his senior year he had to leave due to a family crisis. Morales has been in the construction industry for the past 15 years.

“I wanted more for my family, my wife and two daughters, and my wife said go back to school! I would recommend RACE to anyone. I did a combination of in-person and online classes and the counselors helped me with my schedule. In just a few months, I was able to graduate!" He is now on his way to becoming an electrician.

Advice to others: "It’s going to be hard for a little bit, but you will get used to being back in school. Make a space that is dedicated just for you and your studies. Don’t let the opportunity pass. Your family will be proud of you, and you will be proud of yourself.”

July 2, 2024 Issue RUSD News Editor gward@rowlandschools.org