Newsletter | Friday, October 11, 2024

MCOE’s Health & Wellness Fair Offered Resources for a Healthier Future

The Monterey County Office of Education (MCOE) Human Resources Department hosted its annual Health and Wellness Fair on Thursday, September 26. The event was open to all MCOE employees, school district employees, and community members covered by MCSIG and California Valued Trust (CVT) insurance plans. MCOE places great importance on supporting and maintaining employee health, and this fair is just one of the many initiatives aimed at providing staff with the resources and knowledge needed to maintain their well-being.

The fair focused on increasing workplace wellness and raising awareness about various health conditions. Numerous health and wellness community partners participated, offering valuable information and fun promotional items to attendees. Participants could also receive comprehensive health screenings, including cholesterol checks to monitor heart health, osteoporosis risk assessments to prevent bone diseases, skin evaluations to detect early signs of skin conditions, and more. In addition, a generous donation of fresh produce was available at a special booth thanks to Taylor Farms, Tanimura & Antle, Dole & Nature's Reward.

Upon check-in, attendees received an MCOE bag to collect materials and giveaways from each vendor. They also had the chance to enter exciting raffle prize giveaways, with prizes donated by vendors. MCOE extends a big thank you to the HR team for organizing such a fantastic event, and to the donors, vendors, and participants who contributed to making the Health and Wellness Fair a great success.

Mark your calendars for next year's Health and Wellness Fair, scheduled for October 16, 2025!

28th Annual ReV Up Expanded Learning Conference

The 2024 Region 5 ReV Up Expanded Learning Conference held on Saturday, September 14 at Gilroy High School drew an impressive crowd of 750+ participants representing all Region 5 counties, including Monterey, San Benito, Santa Clara, and Santa Cruz. The wide-spread attendance was a testament to the conference's far-reaching impact within the educational community that supports students TK-12 through state and federally-funded After School Education & Safety (ASES), Expanded Learning Opportunity Program (ELO-P), and federal 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC), including High School After School Safety & Enrichment for Teens (ASSETs). 

The conference was co-led and supported by MCOE’s Educational Services Division, including Program Coordinator of Expanded Learning Lety Gomez Gong, Program Coordinator II for Expanded Learning Mara Wold, and Administrative Assistant Maria Ramirez, who worked collaboratively to provide valuable resources and create enriched learning opportunities for educators and program leaders across the region, fostering innovation and growth in expanded learning initiatives.

ReV Up serves as a dynamic kick-off professional development event to support school district and community-based organization staff who implement before, after school, intersession and summer programming.  This year, thirty-five presenters hosted an impressive lineup of 80 workshops across diverse strands from Academic Support & Engagement, Social Emotional & Wellness, STEAM, Youth Voice & Leadership, Healthy, Safe & Inclusive Environments, and Professionalism & Program Management. The wide array of workshop offerings catered to the multidimensional needs of all roles in Expanded Learning.

Under the overarching motto of "Lead with Love," ReV Up emphasized the importance of fostering positive, supportive, and inclusive learning environments to continue to uplift Expanded Learning’s WHY, its vision of supporting students year-round through academic support, enrichment, Health & Nutrition, and Social Emotional support to prepare students for their success in college, career, and life. Moreover, it instilled a sense of rigor and relevance, aiming to build cohesive educational systems that provide holistic academic, and social-emotional support year-round to TK-12 grade students.

County Board of Supervisors Brings Awareness to Information Literacy Week

At a recent meeting, the Monterey County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution recognizing Information Literacy Week, highlighting the critical importance of media and digital literacy in our community. The Board of Supervisors invited key advocates, including MCOE Deputy Superintendent Dr. Ralph Porras and Chair of the Information Literacy Coalition of Monterey County Susan Meister to the meeting to present the resolution. Additional Coalition members, including Mark Gomez from the Education Support Team, attended to celebrate the ongoing efforts to enhance digital citizenship and media literacy across the county.

The resolution was adopted at a pivotal time, as Governor Newsom recently signed two important bills, AB 2876 and SB 1288, into law. AB 2876 focuses on expanding media and Artificial Intelligence (AI) literacy within California's curriculum frameworks. The Bill ensures that media literacy will be embedded at every grade level, integrating critical skills into subjects like mathematics, science, and history. AI literacy, a key component of the legislation, aims to prepare students to understand and ethically navigate emerging technologies.

On the other hand, SB 1288 establishes a working group tasked with developing guidance and policies for the safe use of AI in education. This initiative aims to protect both students and educators while maximizing the benefits of AI in public schools.

School leaders, educators, and community members are encouraged to join the California Council for Social Studies (CCSS) for their Digital Citizenship and Media Literacy webinar on October 22 to further explore these vital topics. As Monterey County embraces the future of our evolving education landscape, the commitment to fostering critical thinking, responsible digital behavior, and AI literacy remains stronger than ever.

Monterey County Educational Leaders Participate in The Big Five School Safety Training to Enhance Emergency Preparedness

As part of a comprehensive two-day training at the Salinas City Center, the Monterey County Office of Education hosted a workshop on The Big Five school safety protocols, which cover key emergency responses: Shelter in Place, Secure Campus, Evacuation, Drop, Cover, and Hold On, and Lockdown/Barricade.

The training was led by Mason Henriks, Coordinator of School Safety and Risk Prevention from the San Mateo County Office of Education (SMCOE), where Superintendent Nancy Magee first developed and successfully implemented The Big Five protocols. Over 70 educational leaders from Monterey County participated, representing districts and schools such as Alisal Unified School District, Bay View Academy, Gonzales Unified School District, Greenfield Unified School District, King City Union School District, Monterey Bay Charter School, Monterey County Office of Education, North Monterey County Unified School District, Pacific Grove Unified School District, San Carlos School, Salinas City Elementary School District, Salinas Union High School District, and Soledad Unified School District.

The Big Five protocols are an essential part of the Monterey County Safe and Healthy Schools and Communities Coalition, which also provides training on other critical areas such as Student Threat Assessment, Suicide Prevention, Child Sexual Abuse Protocol, Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC), and Human Trafficking Protocol for Educators.

This event equipped participants with the skills to become trainers in The Big Five protocols, enabling them to prepare staff within their respective districts for a wide range of emergency situations. MCOE remains committed to offering effective, cost-efficient safety training resources to support school districts countywide. The ongoing implementation of The Big Five ensures schools have a unified approach to emergency preparedness, addressing threats from violent attacks to fires, earthquakes, and other crises.

Students Impress as Chefs at Frazier Lake Airport Open House and BBQ

On Saturday, October 5, the Frazier Lake Airport Association welcomed students and staff from the Bob Hoover Academy at MCOE to their Open House and BBQ. The event drew over 130 paid attendees, along with enthusiastic recreational pilots and members of an antique car club. Despite the soaring 100-degree temperatures, attendees found comfort in the shaded hangars while enjoying lunch and cool drinks. Bob Hoover Academy at MCOE students made a strong impression, excelling in food preparation and assisting the host organizers.

Their enthusiasm and work ethic left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance, contributing to the event’s success. The Open House was a fantastic opportunity for the BHA students to engage with the aviation community and contribute to a well-attended event, showcasing the positive impact of the academy on both its students and the wider community.

Strengthening Student Mental Health Initiatives

On Thursday, September 19, school district superintendents from throughout the county gathered for their monthly Superintendents’ Council meeting, with an offsite gathering at the Salinas Union High School District’s (SUHSD) Student Wellness Center located at Washington Middle School. The meeting, which included school district leaders, provided an opportunity to tour the facility and explore how it supports student well-being.  Superintendent Dan Burns led the group through the center, showcasing the impactful services provided to students.

Following the tour, the Superintendents’ Council received an insightful presentation from Claudia Gomez and Noel Teixeira from the Child Abuse Prevention Council on the Pathways to Safety program.  This community referral system plays a crucial role in connecting families and children to essential resources. Additionally, Monterey Peninsula Unified School District Superintendent PK Diffenbaugh shared insights into MPUSD’s Youth-Led Mental Health Council, highlighting how students are taking an active role in promoting mental health awareness and support within their schools.

Overall, the meeting reinforced the critical role schools play in fostering student wellness and mental health and encouraged ongoing collaboration to strengthen these vital support systems.

Pictured from left to right: MCOE Deputy Superintendent Dr. Ralph Porras, Information Literacy Coalition of Monterey County Chair Susan Meister, Information Literacy Coalition of Monterey County member and Ethnics Studies Coordinator, History & Civics Project at UC Santa Cruz Mark Gomez, and member of the Coalition. 

MCOE Staff Celebrates Culture and Connection

The MCOE Special Education Division hosted a vibrant lunch-hour game of Loteria, featuring nachos, dulces (candies), De La Rosa Mazapan, and a delightful assortment of other treats. Held on Friday, September 27, this event was part of the ongoing celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, observed each year from September 15 to October 15. MCOE is committed to promoting wellness and engagement activities like this to strengthen connections across departments and celebrate the rich diversity of our staff. By gathering for these shared experiences, we not only support one another but also honor the cultural heritage that reflects MCOE’s dedication to fostering inclusivity.

MCOE Leaders Tour MPUSD Schools, Spotlighting Student Engagement and Creative Learning

Featured left to right: Monte Vista TK-8 Principal Elementary School Joseph Ashby, Monterey County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deneen Guss, Monterey County Board Member, Trustee Area 1 Annette Yee Steck, MPUSD Superintendent Dr. PK Diffenbaugh, Monterey County Board Member, Trustee Area 6 Mary Claypool, MCOE Deputy Superintendent Dr. Ralph Porras.

Monterey County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deneen Guss, along with Deputy Superintendent Dr. Ralph Porras and Monterey County Board Members Annette Yee Steck and Mary Claypool, recently visited several schools within the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District (MPUSD). The visit, part of a series of district site visits scheduled throughout the year, was an opportunity to observe the innovative teaching methods and student engagement taking place in classrooms across the district.

MPUSD Superintendent Dr. PK Diffenbaugh led the tour, which included stops at Monte Vista TK-8, Monterey High School, Marshall Elementary, and Crumpton Elementary. Each school proudly demonstrated the unwavering commitment of its educators, staff, and students to fostering a dynamic and supportive learning environment.

One particularly memorable experience was observing the students in Monterey High School's bio-med program, where they watched an exciting egg drop competition. This project showcased students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills and was a replica of what would occur during a concussion. This exciting opportunity allowed for a glimpse into the hands-on, experiential learning opportunities available to MPUSD students.

Throughout the visit, Dr. Guss and her colleagues were impressed by the passion, creativity, and dedication of both the staff and students. The tour highlighted MPUSD’s efforts to cultivate a rich educational experience that prepares students for future success while nurturing a lifelong love of learning.

MCOE Employees of the Month are honorably recognized and nominated by their coworkers for outstanding job performances. Each month, Monterey County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deneen Guss, the MCOE Communications team, and the awardees' managers and team members visit each awardee for a special surprise visit at their work location with balloons, a certificate, and an MCOE bag of swag. This month, MCOE is proud to recognize two extraordinary employees.

See MCOE’s employee of the month webpage.

Gretchen Kelly, Program Coordinator for MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) in the Educational Services Division, is known for building strong, trusting relationships with MCOE’s district and community partners. Read More.

Edward Brown, an exceptional educator at Bob Hoover Academy, is renowned for building strong, meaningful relationships with his students. Read more.

Ruby Villalobos Llamas, Paraeducator at MCOE’s Arthur B. Ingram School, exemplifies what it means to be exceptional in her role. Read more.

Roosevelt Elementary School Celebrates 100 Years of History, Education, and Unity

Hundreds of guests, including former teachers, community members, and local legislators gathered at Salinas City Elementary School District’s Roosevelt Elementary School for a multi-day celebration marking the school's 100th anniversary. The festivities began on Thursday, Oct. 3, with classroom tours where students gave individual presentations of the school's rich history. The weekend following, attendees enjoyed displays of school artifacts and memorabilia, lively student performances featuring singing and dancing, and delicious appetizers and tacos. A highlight of the celebration was the joint proclamation honoring the occasion, delivered by State Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, Senator Anna Caballero, and Senator John Laird.

One of the most symbolic moments of the 100-year celebration was the opening of a 24-year-old time capsule, assembled in 2000 by former Principal Manuel Palato. The contents of the time capsule, created specifically to be opened on the school's 100th birthday, were unveiled by current Principal Hilda Huerta, adding a meaningful touch to the centennial celebration.

Steinbeck Toastmasters International is hosting a Halloween themed Public Speaking, Communication, Leadership Skills Open House at the Black Bear Diner on 1391 N Davis Rd in Salinas on October 24 at 6:30 PM. Register here.

The Young Worker Leadership Academy (YWLA) is an all-expense paid, 3-day leadership training for teens on workplace safety, rights, and responsibilities. YWLA’s mission is to build youth leaders and advocates for safe workplaces. The leadership academy introduces participants to service strategies (policy, education, media) and provides a forum for youth to plan service-learning projects for their schools and communities to promote positive, safe employment for youth. Learn more and register here.

U.S. Representative Jimmy Panetta is hosting the 2024 The Congressional App Challenge open to all middle and high school students in CA District 19. For details, visit panetta.house.gov/services/congressional-app-challenge.

The Arts Council for Monterey County is opening the "Macro to Grand Landscapes" exhibit free to the public, beginning October 4 through December 29 at ArtWorks located at 262 Main Street in Salinas. The photography exhibit features the work of renowned nature photographer David J. Gubernick. Learn more at arts4mc.org/artworks.

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