November 12, 2023
In EUSD, every student is an Ethical Scholar! One of the most inspiring ways in which our students learn to embrace the characteristics of an Ethical Scholar is through our environmental education programs, which teaches even our youngest learners about the importance of caring for our planet.
Our team of science educators collaborates with several organizations to support this focus. For example, at Pioneer Elementary recently, kindergartners were immersed in a lesson about biomes and habitats with San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum. This partnership with the Escondido-based museum enhances classroom learning in environmental education, with a hands-on mobile workshop led by professional museum educators. In the “Habitat Hangout” workshop, students learn about where animals live, and the unique adaptations of animals that help them to survive in different habitats. The lesson aligns with Next Generation Science Standards for kindergarten, which call for instruction on solutions that will reduce the impact of humans on the land, water, air, and other living things in the local environment.
On a recent morning, the Pioneer kindergartners learned some big science words, such as biome, ecosystem, and habitat, as museum educators engaged in a lively question and answer presentation. “What’s the biggest biome on Earth,” they asked, displaying a map of the world. After a hint or two, the students raised their hands, eager to share the answer: “The ocean!” Following a few more minutes of discussion about habitats, students scattered to the nearby tables set with craft supplies to create their own miniature habitat.
An Ethical Scholar is an individual who finds opportunities to make a positive impact on their community and who demonstrates integrity, respect, and compassion – and this learning experience gave the dozens of Pioneer kindergartners a great start on doing just that.
Visit our Framework for the Future website to learn more about the new whole-learner outcomes for our students.
Here are this week’s updates and reminders.
Work with EUSD partner: The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego, which operates the ASES before- and after-school program in our district, is currently recruiting for Group Leader positions at EUSD middle schools. If you or someone you know is interested in applying for these jobs, follow the link via the QR code or website address on this flyer. Scroll the job listings list for ASES Group Leader, then select your preferred EUSD school site.
Family engagement: The Family and Community Engagement Virtual Learning Series returns Wednesday, November 15, with the workshop “Preventing Youth Suicide: Mental Health Awareness and Support.” This important presentation and discussion will include information about the warning signs of mental health challenges in children, as well as strategies to ensure their safety and well-being. The workshop will be delivered live via Zoom in Spanish from 9 to 10 a.m. and from 5 to 6 p.m.; the meeting ID is 840 5134 2012 and the passcode is 2023. The session will be delivered live via Zoom in English from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.; the meeting ID is 840 5134 2012 and the passcode is 2023. No registration is required.
Report cards: The first trimester of the 2023-2024 school year ended November 9. First trimester report cards will be issued Friday, November 17. Report cards for elementary school students will be distributed at school. Report cards for middle school students will be delivered by mail.
Honor a Caring Heart: The nomination window is now open for the annual Caring Hearts Awards, presented by the dedicated group of volunteers behind the Escondido Education Foundation. Directions and forms are now available in all school offices, at the front desk of the Carilyn Gilbert Education Center, 2310 Aldergrove Avenue, and online at this link. These awards recognize members of the education community who work under the radar while doing extraordinary work on behalf of students – directly supporting EUSD children in helping them find success and acceptance. These “caring hearts” do not seek recognition for themselves, and the foundation is in need of your nominations for the Caring Hearts Awards. The nominee can be any school staff member, parent volunteer, community member, or community organization. Anyone may submit a nomination. I encourage you to take a minute to think of all the individuals and organizations who go above and beyond in their support of students. Nominations are due by 4 p.m. December 18 at the district office. The awards will be presented at the annual foundation dinner on February 9. Check the foundation website for future updates.
Thanksgiving recess: As a reminder, Friday, November 17, is a minimum day for students. The 2023 Thanksgiving break is scheduled for Monday, November 20, through Friday, November 24. All EUSD schools and the district office will be closed. We have much to be thankful for in EUSD, and we are especially grateful for all of our dedicated families. We wish you a peaceful Thanksgiving week – full of joy, rest, good food, and fun!
– Luis Rankins-Ibarra, Superintendent of Schools