I invite all residents to attend the Contra Costa Community College District’s 65^th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, December 7 starting at Noon and ending at 4 PM at Universal Sports Academy, 330 Ferry Street, Martinez (between Train Station and Water).

From Noon to 1:00 PM there will be a Spoken Program and Toast. We will honor the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors for their historic role in creating our District, and recognize Unsung Heroes from the community who are contributing to the success of our students. From 1:00 PM to 4 PM a free community Showcase and Festival will take place that features entertainment, food and information on our programs and services.

The Honorary Chairs are the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. Festival Co-Chairs are Ward 2 Trustee Vicki Gordon and Ward 1 Trustee John Márquez.

Additional information is available at the website http://www.4cd.edu/crpa/65th/default.aspx or by emailing Timothy Leong, District Public Information Officer, at tleong@4cd.edu.

We look forward to seeing members of the Antioch City Council and members of the Antioch community at our 65^th anniversary event.

Thank you.

Greg Enholm

Ward 5 Trustee

Enholm represents all or part of Antioch, Brentwood, Oakley, Pittsburg, and nearby unincorporated communities on the Contra Costa Community College District Board.

By Allen Payton

These days it seems as if most of the news coming out of schools is bad. Hardly a day goes by without another report of some tragedy: a bullying incident, a shooting, a teacher acting inappropriately or test scores below state or federal standards. There is one local school, however, where the news is very good. Paideia Academy, a small, Christian school, located in the annex of King’s Chapel in Antioch, has become one of the top schools in the country when it comes to winning nationally recognized essay and speech competitions. What is even more remarkable, is the fact that they have had such tremendous success with such a small student body…less than 30 students.

Last year Vanessa Urbina, a seventh grader, was the California state champion in the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Patriot’s Pen competition, winning over $2,000 for her efforts. She was the third state champion the school has produced since its inception a half dozen years ago.

Each year students at Paideia Academy participate in at least three essay or speech competitions. In addition to the Patriot’s Pen, they also enter the VFW Voice of Democracy, the Fleet Reserve Association Patriotic Essay Contest, and the American Legion Oratorical Competition.

John Crowder, the administrator and lead teacher at the school, was asked about his formula for success.

“Being able to write and speak well is vital to a successful career, in college and beyond,” he stated. “With that in mind, our students begin writing extensively in third grade. Even at that young age we expect them to be able to produce well-written paragraphs, to develop a logical thesis, and to convey that to others using the written word. By the time they reach high school, and take our Research and Writing class, they will have already written many, many essays, all of which will have been revised and corrected.”

Crowder went on to say that he believes that almost anyone can learn to write well.

“Like any valuable skill, it takes work. The students here work hard, and are given feedback on all their writing, over time developing an exceptional degree of expertise.” When asked about the patriotism theme, Crowder commented, “I wanted our students to understand how fortunate they are to live in the United States and under our Constitution. The patriotic organizations that sponsor these contests, VFW, FRA and American Legion, were a great fit for us.”

Vanessa talked about her writing class.

“At first it was really hard,” she said, “especially when I would get a paper back that was marked up with so much red ink. Before I came to Paideia, that hadn’t happened, and I thought my writing was pretty good. Mr. Crowder is much more strict, but it’s really helped me develop into a much better writer.”

Another student, Haley Robles, who entered an international contest, sponsored by the Scottish Reformation Society, and won first place, agreed with that assessment.

“The thing about this class that really helps is that we get feedback on every essay we write, and have to correct them,” Haley said. “I was just thinking yesterday, as I was writing yet another essay, how much more concise my writing is, now.”

A third student, Alec Scher, a winner in the American Legion Oratorical Competition, has already put his skills into practice, participating as an intern in the California State Assembly, last summer.

“Paideia Academy has been great for me,” Alec said. “Last summer I was able to help the Assemblyman draft all kinds of documents. I don’t think this experience would have been possible without learning how to write well.”

The students at Paideia Academy are currently putting the final touches on the Patriot’s Pen and Voice of Democracy essays they have written for the current year. If past performance is any indication, they can once again, expect an abundance of scholarship money pouring into the coffers of these impressive, diligent, Antioch students.

To learn more about Paideia Academy, and their writing program, visit their website www.paideiacademy.com or call the school at (925) 628-4033.

PITTSBURG: The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded Los Medanos College (LMC) a 5-year, NSF S-STEM grant of $625,611 to support the college’s efforts to establish an LMC STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Achievement) Scholars Program. This program will provide scholarships and support services for academically talented and low-income STEM students.

The LMC STEM Scholars Program will establish up to 116 scholarships, each between $3,000 and $5,000 annually, to approximately 50-65 individual full-time, academically talented and financially disadvantaged STEM students during years Two through Five of the grant. Year One of the grant will be dedicated to program start-up, such as development of resources, supplies, policies and procedures, and recruitment activities. In Years Two through Five, approximately 25 scholarships will be given awarded to students attending LMC. Additionally, in each of Years Three through Five, five scholarships will be awarded to STEM Scholars who transfer to four-year universities as STEM majors. The program will increase the numbers of traditionally underserved, low-income STEM students who obtain STEM degrees, transfer to four-year universities as STEM majors, and ultimately launch into successful STEM careers.

An LMC STEM student is defined as a student who is pursuing an Associate of Science degree or Bachelor of Science transfer path, majoring in one or more of the following calculus-based STEM programs: Biological Sciences, Computer Sciences, Engineering, Mathematical Sciences or Physical Sciences. While LMC’s existing MESA Program will provide the infrastructure for the STEM Scholars Program, awardees will retain a distinct identity as a community of learners, an identity fostered via the unique opportunities available to the STEM Scholars cohort.

The grant will help support some of LMC’s program objectives focusing on STEM major success, completion and transfer rates. These include:

1. Increase the proportion of Latino & African American STEM majors who meet their degree and transfer goals to more closely match the equivalent success rates of those ethnic populations across disciplines at LMC.
2. At least 75% of STEM Scholars will complete an Associate degree and/or transfer to a four-year university in a STEM field within three years.
3. Provide robust programmatic infrastructure to ensure increasing success rates within the STEM Scholars Cohort.
4. Expand and enrich learning and career placement opportunities by requiring STEM Scholars to participate in relationship-building activities with industry partners (career exploration, job shadowing, mentorships, internships, and research activities).

“Los Medanos College is gratified by NSF’s award to support the launch of our STEM Scholars Program”, explained LMC President Bob Kratochvil. “Each scholarship is intended to provide sufficient funds for students to attend school full-time without having to also work, enabling them to direct their talents and energy toward their educational goals.  We believe this grant will play a key role in meeting our program objectives related to completion and achievement rates for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math majors – all leading to student success and career opportunities for our STEM scholars.”

For more information about the STEM Scholars Program, visit www.losmedanos.edu/stem or contact Carol Hernandez at 925-439-2181 extension 3437.

Los Medanos College (LMC) is one of three colleges in the Contra Costa Community College District. LMC prepares students to excel and succeed economically, socially and intellectually in an innovative, engaging and supportive learning environment. It provides quality programs and state-of-the-art facilities to serve the needs of a rapidly growing and changing East County while enhancing the quality of life of the diverse communities it serves. LMC is located on 120 acres between Pittsburg and Antioch, with an additional education center in Brentwood.

The Contra Costa Community College District (District) is seeking nominations from the community to recognize Unsung Heroes for their little-known, unique and/or aspiring contributions that he/she has made for students.  Awards will be given out in eight categories: Faculty, Classified Staff, Manager, Student, Alumni, Retiree, Volunteer and Community Partner, at the District’s 65th anniversary showcase event on Saturday, December 7, 2013.

“The public can nominate someone from any of these categories they feel has contributed to the District and has made a difference in the lives of students,” says Unsung Heroes coordinator Michele Jackson.  “Our success depends on the contribution of many people, organizations, and community partners, and this recognition gives us the opportunity to thank them for their support.”

To nominate an Unsung Hero, complete the application by visiting the District’s 65^th Anniversary website at www.4cd.edu and click on “Unsung Hero Nomination Form”.  A selection committee will review the applications, select the awardees, and make the presentations at the District’s 65^th anniversary showcase event scheduled at the Universal Sports Academy, 330, Ferry Street, Martinez, beginning at Noon.  Deadline for nominations is Thursday, October 31, 2013.

The showcase event will feature programs and services offered by the District through its colleges – Contra Costa College, Diablo Valley College and the San Ramon Campus, and Los Medanos College and the Brentwood Center.  Live entertainment and family fun will be provided, and attendees can learn more about the educational resources and community partnerships the District enjoys.

The Contra Costa Community College District (CCCCD) is one of the largest multi-college community college districts in California. The CCCCD serves a population of 1,019,640 people, and its boundaries encompass all but 48 of the 734-square-mile land area of Contra Costa County. The District is home to Contra Costa College in San Pablo, Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill, Los Medanos College in Pittsburg, as well as educational centers in Brentwood and San Ramon. The District headquarters is located in downtown Martinez. For more information visit www.4cd.edu.

MARTINEZ, CA – The Contra Costa Community College District (District) sadly announced the passing of Governing Board president Sheila A. Grilli on Saturday, August 31, 2013 at the age of 75. Ms. Grilli represented Ward 3 which included most of Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Concord, and the community of Pacheco.

She was first elected to the Governing Board in 1998, and was serving her fourth consecutive term of office.  Grilli is only the third member to represent this area since the District was created in 1948.  Former Ward 3 representatives included founding Governing Board member George R. Gordon for whom the District Office in Martinez is named, and Eugene H. Ross for whom the District Office board room is named.

“Our prayers and sympathies are with the Grilli family and friends,” says Governing Board Vice President John E. Márquez.  “Sheila was a feisty advocate for the students who come to us with hopes of fulfilling their higher education goals with us.  One of my fondest memories will be the joy on her face as she describes her participation at graduation ceremonies and seeing the contribution our colleges make in the lives of our students.  She will be missed.”

After earning her A.A. degree at Diablo Valley College, Grilli attended U.C. Berkeley, where she graduated with a B.A. in English and Journalism.  She then went on to San Francisco State University, where she earned her general secondary teaching credential and taught at Clayton Valley High School. She also studied for her M.A. in English at California State University, Hayward and taught writing there for four years.

During her fifteen years as a Governing Board member, Grilli was a tireless supporter of the community college mission to provide affordable and quality higher education opportunities for our students and the community.  She worked on the passage of Bond Measure A 2002 and 2006 which have modernized our campus facilities to improve the learning environment for students and prepare them for 21^st century jobs and careers.

Grilli was a bookstore owner in Martinez and active in community work.  She served as treasurer of the Muir Heritage Land Trust, secretary of Woodbridge Children’s Centers, and secretary of St. Catherine’s Pastoral Council.  She was also active in the Cal Alumni Association and in the revitalization of downtown Martinez.

In adherence to California Education Code 5091, the Governing Board shall decide within 60 days if the District will order an election or make a provisional appointment to fill the vacancy.

The Contra Costa Community College District (CCCCD) is one of the largest multi-college community college districts in California. The CCCCD serves a population of 1,065,177 people, and its boundaries encompass all but 48 of the 734-square-mile land area of Contra Costa County. The District is home to Contra Costa College in San Pablo, Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill, Los Medanos College in Pittsburg, as well as educational centers in Brentwood and San Ramon.  The District headquarters is located in downtown Martinez. For more information about the District, visit www.4cd.edu.

By James Ott

The recent child-abuse accusations facing the Antioch school district and recent bomb threats at Deer Valley High School have prompted the Antioch School Board to schedule special meetings this month to discuss improving the safety of their schools.

At the previous school board meeting, Antioch Unified School District, (AUSD), Superintendent Dr. Donald Gill asked school board members to add a special meeting at the end of the month to discuss the district’s child-abuse reporting policy and other safety matters.

The decision to improve safety policies comes as the district is being sued by the families of three disabled students.

Larry and Megan Evans, Teresa Green and Heather Carranza all allege that their kids were abused physically and verbally by special education teacher Theresa Allen-Caulboy at MNO Grant Elementary in Antioch. They are part of a lawsuit that seeks damages from Allen-Caulboy, and the Antioch school district.

The lawsuit claims that Allen-Caulboy pinned students to the ground, pinched and gouged at them and called them names like “retard.”

The parents of the affected students are also targeting MNO Grant Elementary School principal Michael Green, AUSD Special Education Director David Wax, Assistant Superintendent Keith Rogenski, and Special Education Coordinator Kai Montgomery – all administrators who the lawsuit claims failed to protect their children from abuse and even attempted to cover up the problem by urging parents not to report the case to the police.

As if the alleged abuse of disabled students wasn’t enough, Antioch police also recently arrested an unnamed 16-year-old Deer Valley High School student from calling in bomb threats to several area schools including Deer Valley and Black Diamond Middle School.

The student was arrested on April 25 after calling in numerous bomb threats over five days, all of which proved to be hoaxes. The student admitted to the threats after they were arrested.

The district has vowed that the responsible student would be expelled and possibly face felony charges.

Superintendent Gill said that student safety is always the number one priority of a school district, but that it is even more apparent after the recent lawsuit and bomb-threats.

“The most timely topic we have before us now is student safety,” said Gill.

AUSD Board President Joy Motts said that the district will be “looking at everything we possibly can” to improve student safety at Antioch schools.

Motts said that some of the things they might look to improve at future meetings include school infrastructure, providing teachers with the correct tools to identify problems and keep students safe, intervention programs to determine if children are in need, and reviewing all documents related to safety and reporting of complaints by students and staff.

“I think it’s absolutely appropriate to do everything we possibly can to make sure our kids are safe,” added Motts.

The next scheduled school board meetings are scheduled for tonight, Wednesday, May 8 and Wednesday May 22 at 7:00 p.m. at 510 G Street in Antioch. The special board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday May, 29.

By James Ott

Antioch’s school district could save millions in energy costs and gain funding for new education initiatives if it decides to go with a plan to add solar panels to it’s school sites.

Three companies combined to give a presentation about the benefits of solar to the school board at their March 27 meeting. After the presentation the board voted to allow them to do a feasibility study and secure $30 million in bonds from the state that would help pay for the solar panels.

Bob Redlinger, a senior manager at 25-year-old solar company SunPower led the talks, saying that the school could save nearly $70 million in energy costs over the next 25 years from installing it’s solar panels. After paying $34 million back in bonds to pay for the construction and maintenance of the panels the district could expect a $35 million net savings to their general fund, Redlinger said. After that, he said that the district will continue to save millions in energy costs and have schools that are energy independent.

Redlinger presented a mock-up of Deer Valley High School as an example of how SunPower’s solar panels may be implemented into Antioch schools. Solar panels would be placed on the roof of the school and over parking lots and outdoor assembly areas to provide shade in addition to power. The initial energy production of the solar system could produce 2,110,619 kilowatts and hour and pick up 76 percent of the large schools’ entire energy usage. Increasing the size and efficiency of the system could do even better, according to Redlinger’s presentation, making the school entirely energy independent and erasing the entire $457,927 energy bill the district pays to run high school each year.

Steve Nielsen of financial consultant company MuniBond Solar would handle financing for the solar project and said that Antioch Unified could get the entire program going with no “out of pocket” expenses. This is possible because the district has applied for $30 million in Qualified Zone Academy Bonds, (QZABs) through the California Department of Energy. $98 million in QZABs were authorized by the state in January of this year to help pay for alternative energy projects at California schools.

Nielsen said he expects the QZABs to come with a 17 to 20 year term with a low interest rate of around 1.5 percent. He praised the QZABs simple structure and low cost.

“These [QZABs] are somewhat comparable to a really low fixed-rate home mortgage,” said Neilsen. “And it doesn’t require a direct repayment from taxpayers because payments will come out of the district’s general fund.”

If the district decides to go with SunPower and MuniBond Solar they will also get the services of Project Lead The Way, (PLTW), – a company that specializes in developing so called STEM, (science, technology, engineering and math), curricula for middle and high schools.

Dr. Duane Crum represented PLTW at the meeting and said that his company “provides rigorous, hands-on curricula and intense professional development in STEM disciplines.” STEM education has become popular in K-12 schools as the world economy moves to more technology laden jobs that require a more educated workforce.

Crum said that PLTW has over 500,000 students taking it’s courses in all 50 states including some at Antioch High School. As part of the solar panel project PLTW will develop and implement STEM academies with hopes to better educate Antioch youth in those disciplines. SunPower also plans to link it’s solar panels to modules and labs where students can conduct physical experiments.

Crum said that PLTW will provide up to $3.1 million in matched in-kind funding to pay for the program.

If the school board decides to move forward and approves a contract with the three companies at the June 12 board meeting, Redlinger said that the they can start the design and development of the project that same month. They then will began construction in July 2013 while simultaneously training teachers and implementing the PLTW STEM curriculum.

If all goes well the plan is to energize the solar panels as early as the mid-year, 2014.

By Dr. Sean Wright, CEO, Antioch Chamber of Commerce

The Antioch Unified School District is leading the way in a statewide effort for High School Reformation. Five years ago AUSD applied for a grant and project from the James Irvine Foundation that brought in monetary resources and experts to incorporate a new model of educational reform known as Linked Learning. Antioch’s Superintendent Dr. Donald Gill and the AUSD school board has fully embraced this new model of educational reform and created numerous academies at each of the Antioch High Schools.

For the past five years, this grant has allowed AUSD to be involved in a California Linked Learning District Initiative, which aims to demonstrate that when school districts use Linked Learning as a primary district strategy for high school transformation, student outcomes improve. Only nine California districts were able to participate in this phenomenal opportunity. AUSD now offers pathway academies in Medicine, Law, Engineering, Business, Technology, and the Performing Arts with more on the way.

The data from these school districts is coming in with Higher Test Scores, decreased levels of truancy and overall students who are more engaged in their own educational process than ever before. Because of the promising data, the state of California wrote an Assembly Bill last year known as AB790 which sought out twenty school districts that would continue the work of Linked Learning over the next five years. Looking to collect more data and give the beginning districts more time to expand their pathways. AUSD partnered with Mount Diablo and Pittsburg School Districts to work together as surrounding districts to expand Linked Learning. The three school district cohort grant known as The Diablo Delta Corridor Project was applied for and accepted by the state of California in January of this year.

The Diablo Delta Corridor Project is an interesting model for Linked Learning as it looks to engage Businesses in order to create greater dialogue and more understanding for our students coming directly from the source of the employers of the future. This Linked Learning model allows student education to incorporate Math, English, Science and Social Study core learning into a thematic relevant and engaging pathway around the student’s direct area of interest. It’s not Math for the sake of Math or English for the sake of English, it is Math, English, and Science taught to help a student understand the topics that make them want to learn.