RUSD Family & Community eNews
March 2024
Message from Communications Manager / Public Information Officer
π As the Communications Manager for the Redlands Unified School District, I am privileged to witness firsthand the transformative power of education within our community. π Every day, our dedicated educators, staff, and students strive for excellence, shaping the future of Redlands. However, there exists a crucial component often overlooked: the role of school public relations (PR) in education. π’
β¨ School PR is not merely about promoting events or sharing accomplishments; it is about fostering meaningful connections and building trust within our community. It serves as a vital bridge between our schools and the families we serve, ensuring transparent communication and engagement at every turn. π€
π Effective school PR enables us to share the incredible stories unfolding within our schools β stories of resilience, creativity, and achievement. It highlights the tireless efforts of our educators, the brilliance of our students, and the unwavering support of our community partners. These narratives not only celebrate our successes but also inspire others to join us in our mission of nurturing future generations. π€²
π» Moreover, in today's digital age, the importance of social media in school PR cannot be overstated. Utilizing Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Youtube provide us with extraordinary opportunities to connect with our community members in real-time, sharing updates, celebrating milestones, and addressing concerns promptly. By following us on social media, you become an integral part of our online community, contributing to the vibrant dialogue surrounding education in Redlands. π
π€³ I invite each of you to engage with us on our social media channels (@RedlandsUSD), where you'll find a wealth of information, from upcoming events and student achievements to important announcements and resources. Your participation not only strengthens our bonds as a community, but also amplifies the impact of our collective efforts in shaping the future of education. π²
π Thank you for your ongoing support and engagement with our District. Together, we will continue to celebrate our successes, inspire one another, and make a positive impact on the future of education. ππ§‘
Sincerely,
Christine Stephens, Communications Manager / Public Information Officer
What's Happening in Redlands USD
π Introducing Medley Station! π½οΈ
π Beep beep! Make way for Medley Station π β the new face of Redlands Unified School District's Child Nutrition Services Department! π½οΈ The primary purpose of this rebrand is to reimagine the Child Nutrition Services role beyond the meals they provide. As a department, they focus on fostering a culture of wellness and education around nutrition. By refreshing their identity, they aim to engage students, parents, and staff in a shared commitment to prioritize health and well-being. π§ Richard Zander, CNS Field Specialist said, "My initial perspective is that it gives us a fresh start! We are much more than CNS! This provides us an opportunity to expand peopleβs perspective within the district and community."
π Over the years, the department has worked tirelessly to ensure access to nutritious meals, laying the foundation for academic success and overall well-being. π₯¦ Looking ahead, they aspire to enhance nutritional literacy π§ , expand the menu options π΄, and cultivate sustainable practices. β»οΈ
π Students Celebrate CTE Month ποΈ
Students shared their firsthand experiences from various CTE classes, shedding light on their career-technical educational pathway. π Whether delving into Engineering Design π οΈ at Redlands East Valley or exploring Multimedia Design π₯ at Orangewood High School, students articulated how the skills acquired in these courses pave the way for diverse career aspirations. πΌ The best part? Many highlighted the immediate job opportunities available post-high school graduation thanks to these valuable skills. π₯οΈ
π€ School Counselor Week ποΈ
π’ During National School Counseling Week, each day one member of our amazing counseling and academic case carrier team was featured on social media. π€© Students and families got to know these influential figures better through an A-Z survey of aspirations, favorites, and fun! π
AAPAC Takes Over Highland
Arroyo Verde, Cram, and Highland Grove's AAPAC came together for a marvelous Black History Month celebration! π Families were greeted with student projects based on historically Black colleges and universities π and had the chance to check out videos of student presentations based on Black historical figures. π€ Everyone was enchanted by the presentations of African songs πΆ where students had the opportunity to sing along, learn dances, and hear stories π, and were even surprised by a grand guest! Redlands East Valley High School Black Student Union, the Ruby Jewels, also made an appearance teaching students how to step dance. π The event offered free soul food, pizza, and many giveaways π that made the night an unforgettable experience for all who attended. A big shoutout to Beattie Middle Schoolβs AVID volunteers for being a helping hand π and all the families who led a wonderful celebration!
π―π²π Tigers and Dragons and books, oh my! π
π Orangewood High School students belonging to the Black Student Union spread the joy of reading to the Tigers π at Victoria Elementary School in celebration of both Read Across America and Black History Month. π
π² The OHS Dragons read aloud to classrooms throughout the day and shared their favorite books featuring black characters and authors with the younger scholars. During lunch and recess, they connected with the kids on a more personal level, reliving their childhood memories on the playground π and helping to open countless pints of milk in the cafeteria. π₯
πCharlotte Huck Festival π
The 27th Annual Charlotte Huck Childrenβs Literacy Festival was held at the University of Redlands on Friday and Saturday, March 1st-2nd. This unique festival, which began at Ohio State University in 1997 by author Dr. Charlotte Huck, continues in her honor here in Redlands, where her niece lives. Each year the festival welcomes authors and illustrators from around the United States, each specializing in a variety of genres and styles. π
πͺ Our Superintendent, Juan Cabral, opened the Festival and inspired us all when he shared how he wasnβt a reader as a child, but once he felt connected to one book, it opened a new world for him, and is an avid reader today. His enthusiasm and authenticity set the stage for a meaningful time learning from others. π€² π
This year, Redlands Unified School District had over forty teachers, librarians, and administrators represent our schools at the event. Additionally, we had three of our amazing teachers present. Camille Danke, presented a breakout session about βTeaching Literacy Through Literature Groupsβ where she shared how even the most reluctant reader can become engaged with quality literature through technology, author studies, and hands-on reading experiences! π Sisters, Ellen Huynh and Mary Wolfe, shared Ellenβs new book she authored, A Dive Into the Blue. They shared how to support social emotional strategies through childrenβs literature. We are so proud of them for their contribution and making RUSD shine! β¨
π From a variety of keynote speakers to smaller breakout sessions, our Redlands USD team shared, βThis is one of the best festivals yet!β and βI am so happy I was able to attend this year! Each speaker touched my heart, and inspired me to read more with my students.β βWe can't wait for next year!β π₯³
πͺ Redlands Represents at the CA STEAM Symposium π¬
Twenty-five students from Smiley Elementary; Beattie, Clement, Cope, and Moore middle schools; and Citrus Valley, Redlands East Valley, and Redlands high schools showcased their Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) projects at the 11th California STEAM Sympisium at the Long Beach Convention Center. π¦Ύ
Students, guided by their teachers, presented a session titled "Coding and Robotics for All," sharing their experiences with a room full of educators and administrators. Way to go STEAM Team! π
π©βπ¬ The 30th Annual RUSD-AAUW STEM Conference π§ͺ
π©π»βπ¬ Each year, Redlands Unified School District and the American Association of University Women (AAUW) co-sponsor a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) event focusing on empowerment and exploration. π©π½βπ¬ This year, more than 350 8th-grade girls attended the 30th RUSD-AAUW STEM Conference, featuring engaging, hands-on sessions led by inspiring women in STEM careers. From animatronics and AI π€, to forensic science 𧫠and chemical engineering π§ͺ, students ignited their passions in many disciplines. π©πΎβπ¬
π©πΌβπ¬ The highlight of the conference was the dynamic roundtable conversations during the STEM fair; bright young minds came together to discuss challenges, opportunities, and the limitless potential in STEM fields. "By creating an environment of learning, mentorship, and empowerment through the STEM fair, AAUW has been instrumental in shaping the future of these young aspiring scientists, engineers, mathematicians, and technologists," said Colleen Duncan, a teacher and long time conference attendee. "Their commitment to promoting gender equality and diversity in STEM is commendable and deeply appreciated." π It was a space for collaboration, mentorship, and encouragement, and it fostered a supportive community for our future leaders in STEM. π€ β¨
π₯Ό Inaugural RUSD-Crafton Hills STEM Summit β°οΈ
The first RUSD-CHC STEM Summit demonstrated how community college can be an excellent next step for high school students interested in pursuing STEM careers. The event, hosted on the Crafton Hills College campus, provided a unique opportunity for more than 70 students from each of the four high schools to immerse themselves in the dynamic world of STEM through engaging workshops, interactive sessions, and hands-on activities. 𧬠Attendees were empowered to explore their passions and encouraged to envision exciting new career pathways.
π§ Inspired by the wealth of knowledge and experiences shared by presenters, many students expressed newfound excitement and motivation to pursue STEM-related studies and careers. π€© Students also had an opportunity to attend a dual enrollment, guaranteed admission application workshop and a financial aid workshop, showing them that these dreams are feasible and accessible! π° Thank you to all participants who made the summit a successful and inspiring first for RUSD! π
π¨ Safety Forum Focus: Adult-Student Boundaries π«
π€² Leading child sexual abuse expert Diane Cranley joined the District's Safety Forum Series to share about adult-student boundaries. She has spearheaded efforts to combat child sexual abuse, which culminated in the establishment of a consulting firm following the success of her book "8 Ways to Create Their Fate: Protecting the Sexual Innocence of Children in Youth-Serving Organizations" in 2015. π
π£οΈ Diane emerged as a prominent advocate for prevention, distilling the complexities of child sexual abuse into actionable strategies. Her training, accessed over a million times by California school staff alone in the previous five years, became available internationally, empowering organizations to safeguard children effectively. πͺ As both an abuse survivor and parent of a survivor, Diane's empathetic approach ensured her programs catered to diverse needs, be it prevention, response, or healing. With a vision to foster global solidarity, Diane continues to connect and empower millions worldwide in the fight against child sexual abuse. π
π Join us for the final workshop in our safety series, where San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department shares about the dangers of cyberbullying and social media. π±
π· District Event Photos Are In! πΈ
Awards and Recognition
π« RUSD Presents the Superintendent Awards π
π£ This district brand-new recognition ceremony shines a spotlight on the exceptional achievements of our students. Under this program, each principal has the honor of recognizing two outstanding students each month. These students are handpicked by their respective schools, with a focus on both remarkable academic performance and exemplary citizenship. π
π This prestigious awards program not only acknowledges the remarkable dedication and effort put forth by our students, but also provides our community with an additional opportunity to come together and celebrate the students' hard-earned successes. π
πΈ Visit https://redlandsusd.smugmug.com/ to view the pictures from that evening.
π₯ Communications Department Shines at CalSPRA Conference π£οΈ
π£ The Redlands Unified School District's Communications Department showcased their expertise and earned an impressive seven awards at the California School Public Relations Association (CalSPRA) Annual Conference in Sacramento.
π The awards, celebrating Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, social media engagement, and video production, underscore the department's multifaceted approach to storytelling and community engagement. π₯ The accolades reflect the team's dedication to amplifying the district's narrative and fostering meaningful connections with educational partners. π€
π Our Communications Department also hosted two sessions that demonstrated the district's leadership in communications best practices. One of the highlights was a showcase of the "Day in the Life" recruitment video series, which provides a captivating glimpse into the vibrant array of career opportunities available within RUSD. π
π οΈ Can they build it? Yes, they can! π
π· The Rube-A-Thon competition tested the ingenuity, creativity, and communication skills of students from schools across the Inland Empire. Unlike traditional Rube Goldberg competitions where machines are built, tested, and perfected before the competition, participants went into this competition with no preparation other than their knowledge. The tools, materials, and final task - to create a toothpaste dispenser - were revealed during the competition! π§
"It was a great opportunity for students to develop leadership skills, collaborate with peers, and manage their time effectively," shared Ruth Thompson, teacher. "We canβt wait to compete again next year!"
π₯ Smiley Elementary School won the Creative Spark Award and first place in the elementary division while Bryn Mawr followed in second place π₯ and earned the Storytelling Award. π₯ First place in the middle school division went to Cope Middle School, as well as the Best Final Step Award. Additionally, Orangewood High School took home third place in the high school division π₯ and a Creative Spark Award. Great job to all of our competitors! π₯³
πΎ Redlands High School Chamber Singers Selected to Perform at Prestigious California All-State Music Education Conference πΆ
π€ The Redlands High School Chamber Singers have achieved a remarkable milestone in their musical journey by performing at the esteemed California All-State Music Education Conference (CASMEC) on February 2, 2024 in St. Johnβs Lutheran Church in Sacramento, California. π΅ This honor underscores the exceptional talent, dedication, and hard work exhibited by the students, under the guidance of their director, Mr. Jesse Diaz, and with the unwavering support of their families and the broader school community.
The Chamber Singersβ consistent commitment to musical excellence has earned them this prestigious opportunity, solidifying their reputation as a beacon of musical achievement within the region. Their selection for CASMEC serves as a testament to their outstanding abilities and dedication to the art form. π
βMy experience in preparation of CASMEC truly was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I would gladly go through again if I had the opportunity to,β shared RHS Senior Kaleb Rolle. βNothing can compare to the emotional journey that each choral piece brings me on, and to perform with such a closely bonded group means the world to me. The CASMEC performance truly was surreal and receiving such a welcoming applause at the end of the performance completed me.β π€―
π€ Participation in CASMEC offers not only a platform for showcasing the studentsβ talents but also a unique opportunity for growth and inspiration. By engaging with fellow musicians and learning from esteemed educators, the Chamber Singers will undoubtedly enrich their musical prowess and contribute to the cultural exchange fostered by this event. π
As the Chamber Singers embarked on this exciting journey to CASMEC, their participation not only highlighted their individual accomplishments but also served as a source of inspiration for aspiring musicians within the school and the wider community. π΅
πΌ βAfter months of preparation, Iβm so happy we were finally able to turn pages of notes into a gift we could share with everyone,β shared Junior Marguerita Maroun. π
This achievement is a testament to the unwavering support of Superintendent Juan Cabral, Director of Secondary Education Julie Swan, and the entire Redlands High School community, who have demonstrated their commitment to nurturing the arts and fostering excellence among students. π
π³οΈ DAAPAC Election Results βοΈ
π Join us in congratulating the following members into the Executive DAAPAC Board:
President- Juanita Watkins
Vice President- Alise Clouser
Secretary- Krystal Duncan
Treasurer- Mishell Gama
Certificated and Classified Spotlights!
Classified Spotlight: Director of Technology Services David Massaro π»
π Meet David Massaro, Technology Services Director at the Redlands Unified School District! π₯οΈ He has been with the district for over 20 years as the head of the Technology Services department. Fun fact: He is a licensed private pilot! π¨ββοΈ
A day in the life for him is sometimes challenging, always interesting, and usually rewarding. β "I am honored to work with and enjoy supporting the members of the technology services team. They are a fantastic group and their success is my success,β he shares. He rarely interacts with students directly but a memory that stands out for him is when he received a postcard from a kindergarten class with sad faces when their computer was not working. βMy team took care of that issue in short order.β π¨
Representing the Redlands Unified School District for him has been a rewarding career. βI would not trade my time with RUSD for any other." π
π£οΈ Advice for students and families: "Families need to support and take an interest in their childrenβs education. The home environment and especially the effort of the childβs parents have the most impact on the current and future success of their children. A successful education including earning a college degree or attending a trade school is one of the best paths for ensuring success in life."
Certificated Spotlight: Arroyo Verde Elementary School Teacher Christine Bender π
π Meet Christine Bender, Kindergarten teacher at Arroyo Verde Elementary School! She has taught in Redlands for 24 years, 20 of them being at Arroyo as a Kindergarten teacher. π©βπ« She is also an IST Leader and 504 Coordinator. She is a Redlands graduate who attended Kingsbury Elementary, Cope Middle School, and Redlands High School. You can find her visiting Disneyland with her daughter, mountain bike riding, and spending time with her family, especially on the road to Mammoth during the summer. β°οΈ
For her, being a teacher goes far beyond just teaching. She creates engaging lessons, monitors for student behaviors, checks for understanding, and ensures students are attentive and focused.π βI work daily to instill self-confidence, strength, trust, and acceptance,β she shares. The best part? Seeing how she impacts her students' lives, feeling their love, and cheering on their successes.β¨ One of her favorite memories is Glow Day where she reviews everything students learned in Kindergarten. Having her daughter in her Kindergarten class made it even more special, witnessing firsthand how she grew as a student and an individual. π
Representing the Redlands Unified School District for her means reaching her goals as a teacher to ensure she maximizes the learning potential of every student in her class. βThe key to student success starts on the first day of school by building relationships with each of my students." π€
π£οΈ Advice for students and families: βParent involvement is vital in student success and in creating a healthy, effective school environment.β
Redlands Council of PTAs Updates
Curious about becoming a PTA member? Check in with your school to join and support their fantastic initiatives! π Together, let's pave the way for a brighter future for our children and community! β¨ π π
School Communications
Parent Communication: What to Expect ππ
Staying informed is key to a smooth school year (for everyone!). Outlined below are ways the district as well as school sites will communicate with you.
π’ District Communication
The District will send monthly newsletters, letters from the Superintendent, and updates through ParentSquare containing important information and various action items. By reading through the communication, you are helping your student(s) stay on top of any pressing issues, updates and information. ParentSquare is also an app you can download on your phone and set up your personal communication preferences. Seeing too many emails? You can adjust your notification preferences to digest mode and only receive one email from both your child(ren)'s school and the district in one readers digest format (click here to see how!). You can also enable text and push notifications (which we recommend in case of emergency). π²
In an effort to effectively and efficiently communicate with our staff, families, and community members, the Redlands Unified School District has adopted an electronic flyer communication tool, Peachjar. If you have any questions regarding this new digital flyer service, please email peachjar@redlands.k12.ca.us π
The district also uses social media to share positive stories and happenings throughout the district, in addition to important dates and reminders. You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X (Formerly Twitter), YouTube, and LinkedIn! π±
π« School Site Communication
School site communication varies depending on site and grade level. However, all sites will send out either weekly or monthly newsletter-style communication through ParentSquare. For questions related to school site communication, please reach out to the site directly!
π² ParentSquare Resources
Here is a link to more information and resources related to ParentSquare. See the contact information below for assistance with your ParentSquare account.
Christine Stephens, Communications Manager/Public Information Officer
Phone: (909) 307-5300 ext. 20480
SAVE THE DATE!
We are Hiring!
Join Our Team!
We post new positions regularly! Join our school community by applying here, or share this link with someone who may wish to apply. Call Human Resources at (909) 307-5300 with any questions.
Stay Connected!
Website: www.redlandsusd.net
Location: 20 West Lugonia Avenue Redlands, CA 92374
Phone: (909) 307-5300
Facebook: facebook.com/RedlandsUSD
Instagram: instagram.com/redlandsusd
X (Formerly Twitter): twitter.com/RedlandsUSD
YouTube: youtube.com/RedlandsUSD Media
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/redlandsusd
Photo Gallery: redlandsusd.smugmug.com