RUSD Family & Community eNews
February 2024
Message from Director of Transportation
As the Director of Transportation, working with drivers who care and go above and beyond for their students is an amazing experience. 🤝 Providing safe and reliable transportation is our number one priority. ☝️ School bus transportation is one of the safest ways to get your kiddos to school. For those who ride the bus, Redlands Unified School District bus transportation plays a vital role in your student’s education. 📚 We have 32 routes and transport over 1,800 students daily, not to mention after school activities and sports field trips. ⚽️ Some of the drivers’ highlights are field trips that enrich the student's learning experience. Every day is a new day that brings something different, and there is no better feeling than knowing you are making a difference. As we like to say, “we keep transportation rolling” for those who depend on us. 🚌
📣 Some of the new things to be on the lookout for from transportation are:
Redlands Electric bus rollout: RUSD had partnered with the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) to acquire six ICE electric buses.⚡️ Six buses have just arrived, and as part of the ongoing project, a permanent charging station for 12 buses is currently under construction with the aim of completion by the end of 2024. Our Maintenance and Operations team installed three temporary charging station units so we can begin to integrate the electric buses into the fleet.👏 RUSD will persistently seek grants to replace the older buses with electric ones. Having electric buses is not only good for the environment but also for our student’s health and our community’s health by contributing zero emissions. The future of electric buses at RUSD is now. 🔋
Ride 360 rider information: RUSD will utilize the Ride 360 phone app for both Android and IOS.📲 The phone app will have secured student bus information available for parents and bus riders. The app will also allow transportation to send push notifications for bus delays or service interruptions. 🔔 GPS of the bus will be a second phase of the app coming later. Stay tuned for more to come. 📍
Sincerely,
Apolonio Del Toro, Director of Transportation
What's Happening in Redlands USD
Join the Conversation: LCAP 2024-27 Survey is Open!
📣🤝 The District invites you to join the conversation about our Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) for 2024-27. Your input is a vital component of our LCAP, and our previous LCAP Thoughtexchange showed the value and importance you place on our teachers, staff, and leadership. 💬💼
You will be asked to share your thoughts on the following questions: 🤔💡
- What do you appreciate about your school or our School District?
- What educational purposes would you like to see introduced, continued, or enhanced?
If you know someone else who would like to participate, you can forward your invitation or share the link to this exchange: https://bit.ly/LCAP24-27. Thoughtexchange will be open until 11:59PM on February 12, 2024.
😃 The Great Kindness Challenge: Create Kindness 😃
🌈 The Great Kindness Challenge celebrated a week of spreading joy through random acts of kindness! 🌟 This year's theme was “Create Kindness,” and our schools embraced it with enthusiasm and creativity!
👭 E-Academy’s secondary campus started with a twin spirit day, kindness letters, and a random act of kindness—cleaning up campus trash. Yamilet Gudino shared, "The Great Kindness challenge is important to show others how much they matter and encourage them to do kind acts too. One act of kindness can change someone’s day and can encourage them to also do something kind for themselves." ✨
🎨 Clement Middle School's counselors adorned the campus with beautiful signs. Students shared uplifting messages on sticky notes, spreading kindness during lunch. Stickers were given to students to keep or give with positive messages that served as daily reminders of kindness. Steven Hayes shared, "The Great Kindness Challenge is important, so people don't feel like an outcast." 🫶
☕ Lugonia Elementary School students crafted coffee sleeves with kindness messages, brightening faces at Slow Bloom Coffee. Genesis Guardado, Lugonia’s Elementary School counselor, shared, “It was truly special... We hope to keep this as a yearly tradition.”
👏 A big shoutout to our amazing counselors for organizing these heartwarming activities! They shared how the entire campus embraced this initiative during their cohort meeting. Let's keep the kindness flowing! 💙
🎉 State of the District Recap 📣
On January 31, 2024, the District hosted its first-ever State of the District event, a huge success. 🗓️🏫🎉 Community partners from Redlands, San Bernardino, and Loma Linda gathered to hear the latest updates from RUSD leadership. 👥📣👏
Highlights: 🌟📊👇
- Superintendent Juan Cabral shared the exciting RUSD 2025 strategic plan with a cutting-edge hologram presentation, emphasizing innovation and technology. 💡🔮👨💼
- In the Human Resources world, Assistant Superintendent Dr. Sabine Robertson-Philips discussed RUSD's recruitment efforts, highlighting partnerships with local colleges and universities to bring passionate educators to RUSD classrooms. 🎓🤝👩🏫
- Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Jason Hill celebrated RUSD's acquisition of the Packinghouse in Redlands, a significant milestone enhancing resources and infrastructure. 🏢👏💼
- Dr. Ken Wagner, Assistant Superintendent of Education Services, highlighted RUSD and its schools' achievements, recognizing students in academics, athletics, and tournaments, showcasing RUSD's dedication to well-rounded education. 📚🏆👩🎓🏅🏀
The State of the District event served as a testament to RUSD's commitment to excellence in education and its unwavering dedication to its students and the broader community. 🏫📚🌟 The engagement of board members and attendees demonstrated a shared commitment to shaping a brighter future for the students of Redlands Unified School District. 👥🤝🌞
📚🤳 Get Your Selfie to Work with Franklin Elementary School Principal Dr. Rebecca Acosta
Nurturing Curiosity, Igniting Passion: The RUSD Science Fair 🔬
🧑🔬 In a celebration of scientific exploration and ingenuity, the District recently hosted its annual Science Fair, a captivating event that brought together over 55 students from grades 4 - 12. Organized by the Redlands STEAM program, the science fair showcased a myriad of projects that spanned the vast expanse of scientific study, including physics, biology, engineering, geology, botany, chemistry, robotics, and more.
The event not only served as a platform for students to exhibit their scientific prowess but also fostered curiosity and ignited a passion for STEM subjects. The variety of projects reflected the students' enthusiasm and eagerness to delve into topics ranging from simulating the intricacies of the gut biome 🪱 to the creation of innovative robots. 🤖
What made this science fair particularly special was the broad spectrum of concepts explored. Whether it was generating electricity ⚡️ from playground equipment 🛝, creating a levitating train 🧲, or perfecting the freezing temperature of ice cream 🍦, each project had a unique inspiration. One standout project that captured attention was the design of a battery made from sand, showcasing the students' creative problem-solving skills in the face of modern-day challenges. 🪫 🏖️ 🔋
Participants included both solo and group efforts, emphasizing the collaborative nature of scientific exploration. 🔎 Teachers played a crucial role in guiding and coaching students through the process, showcasing their own dedication to nurturing the budding scientists within their classrooms. 🧑🏫
The impact of the science fair extended beyond the event itself. Projects not only conceptualized science in relation to students' everyday lives, but also provided an opportunity for them to explore concepts they were genuinely curious about. 🧐 This hands-on, experiential approach to learning lays the foundation for a deeper understanding and appreciation of science. 🥼
🏅 The winners move on to the San Bernardino, Inyo, and Mono Counties Science and Engineering Fair (SIMSEF) in March, and potentially the state science fair thereafter.
📸 To view photos from this year's district-level science fair competition, please visit the RUSD online photo gallery at https://redlandsusd.smugmug.com/
🍊CBL Sportsmanship Symposium 🏅
The dynamic atmosphere of the Citrus Belt League (CBL) Sportsmanship Symposium brought together student-athletes from Citrus Valley High School, Redlands High School, Redlands East Valley High School, and three other high schools for an inspiring day hosted by Redlands East Valley High School.
The meticulously planned event, orchestrated by CBL athletic directors, unfolded with engaging icebreakers, activities, and discussions that resonated with our young athletes. 🗣️ In group settings, students from diverse backgrounds shared their unique experiences, fostering a sense of camaraderie and understanding. 🤝
Guiding these discussions were esteemed coaches from the participating high schools, providing valuable insights and mentorship. 💬 The symposium reached new heights with the presence of a distinguished guest speaker, Mike West, CIF Commissioner. West shared profound wisdom on sportsmanship and the pivotal role student-athletes play as leaders on and off the field. 👏
The event equipped our athletes with the tools to be exemplary leaders during competitive games. It was a day filled with inspiration, collaboration, and a shared commitment to upholding the highest standards of sportsmanship. 🙏
🎓 FAFSA 💵
🚨 Attention all seniors! Did you know that you can complete the FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid TODAY?!? 💻 FAFSA is your key to securing financial assistance for college. 🗝️ It's a straightforward process that involves providing your financial information to determine your eligibility for various forms of aid, such as grants, scholarships, and loans. 💰 By completing the FAFSA, you're opening the door to potential funding options that can help make your higher education more affordable. So take a moment to navigate the application, and let's turn those college aspirations into a practical financial plan! 🎓 🤑
📷 District Event Photos Are In! 📸
Awards and Recognition
💫 RUSD Presents the Superintendent Awards 🏆
📣 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. 🙌
🎉 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. 👏
📸 Visit https://redlandsusd.smugmug.com/ to view the pictures from that evening. Join us at the next Superintendent Awards: February 20 at Citrus Valley High School at 5:30PM! 🗓️
Redlands High School Team Blue Clinches Victory at San Bernardino County Mock Trial Championship
🎉🏆🥇 We're thrilled to announce that Redlands High School Team Blue has emerged as the proud winner of the prestigious San Bernardino County Mock Trial championship! 🏛️👨⚖️ This remarkable achievement propels them to the state competition, slated for March 22-24, 2024. 🌟👏
Adding to the Terrier pride, Redlands High School Team White, also from the Redlands Unified School District, secured an impressive second place in this year's county competition and holds a wildcard entry opportunity to compete at the state level. 🥈🔥
This year's county competition featured over 475 students from 24 teams representing 21 high schools. They delved into a hypothetical criminal case, conducted extensive legal research, and prepared compelling trial strategies and arguments. Roles ranged from attorneys and witnesses to defendants, bailiffs, and clerks, guided by dedicated local legal professionals who generously volunteered their time. 👩⚖️📚🏛️
This event, co-sponsored by the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools and the San Bernardino County District Attorney's office, provided a real courtroom experience, with students presenting their cases before a genuine judge, employing constitutional amendments and legal objections. ⚖️👨⚖️📜
Redlands High School Team Blue is now gearing up for the California Mock Trial Finals, where they will compete against teams from 35 counties. Remarkably, this marks the 17th county competition victory for a Redlands High School Mock Trial team since the 1982-1983 school year. The last county competition win was in the 2019-2020 school year, with previous state victories in the 2014-2015 and 1996-1997 school years. 🌟🏆🌟
🤖 RUSD Celebrates 5th Golden Bell at SBCSBA 🏆
🏆🌟 The District was recognized for their California School Boards Association 2023 Golden Bell Award for the Computing, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (C-STEM) at the San Bernardino County Schools Boards Association (SBCSBA). 🏛️🔔
The C-STEM program aims to transform mathematics education by integrating hands-on coding and robotics into California’s Common Core State Standards. 🤖📚 There are two key objectives: closing the achievement gap for students traditionally underrepresented in STEM-related courses 📉🚀 and developing students’ 21st-century problem-solving skills to tackle real-world concerns through integrated math and computer science education. 🧮💻🌐
🏫 REVHS Korrie Krohne CLSA President's Award 📚
Redlands East Valley High School librarian, Korrie Krohne, shines bright with the California School Library Association President’s Award! 🌟 This prestigious honor recognizes her impactful work in the library program, directly benefiting students and teachers. 📚
Nominated by Brandy Major, RHS's teacher librarian, Ms. Krohne showcased her excellence by presenting letters of recommendation from REV's educators and administrators, and her commitment to innovative programs has truly set her apart in the statewide library community. 🏫
“The award is an incredible honor,” expresses Ms. Krohne, “I don’t think that people, even in education, totally realize what teacher librarians do. We do so much more than check out books to students; we teach information literacy and how to use technology to safely reproduce information.” 📝⌨️
Ms. Krohne's teaching journey at RUSD began in 1993 as an English teacher at RHS. 🍎 After contributing to REV's early years, she joined CVHS in its second year. 🏫 During her time at CV, she pursued her Teacher Librarian Credential, leading to her appointment as REV's Teacher Librarian in 2013. 📚 Since then, her passion for both her library career and REV has only grown stronger. ❤️
👋 Meet Our 2024 LEGO Education Ambassadors! 💛 🧱
Certificated and Classified Spotlights!
🏫 Certificated Spotlight: Lugonia Elementary School Teacher Scott Ferguson
👋 Introducing Scott Ferguson, our 5th-grade teacher at Lugonia Elementary! With a dedicated 17 years in the Redlands Unified School District, Mr. Ferguson began as a substitute teacher, taught 6th grade at Clement, and has been at Lugonia, teaching both 4th and 5th grades. 🦁
🏫 Mr. Ferguson describes a day in the life as a Lugonia Elementary teacher as non-stop...in a good way! Memorable moments at Lugonia involved an art collaboration with a friend that was inspired by Jackson Pollock. Mr. Ferguson's friend generously funded the project, providing paint, brushes, and canvases for students to create their own Pollock-like paintings in groups. 🎨 The success made it to the front cover of the Redlands Daily Facts! 🍊
Representing Redlands Unified School District for him means taking great pride of being part of an exceptional team. 🤝
🗣️ Advice for students and families: "I have three children. They are adults now and successful and happy. When they were little, I would tell them to “study hard and play hard.” 💪
💳 Classified Spotlight: Purchasing Assistant Kristen Gauthier
Her day is always dynamic! Despite the common perception of "just buying stuff," the department serves as the essential starting point for departments and school sites in the purchasing process. Handling both pre- and post-work related to fund expenditures, she finds humor in the term "rush" since everything is inherently urgent in her role! A cherished memory for her is the surprise wedding shower thrown by the Business Services Department. The thoughtful and detailed effort showcased the greatness of her team. 🎉
Representing Redlands Unified School District goes beyond contract hours for her. It means embodying RUSD values consistently, being an integral part of the community, and always extending a helping hand. ✨
🗣️ Advice for students and families: "You have a voice, use it! If you ever need help, ask for it. The resources are endless here." 😊
Redlands Council of PTAs Updates
🏫 Kimberly Kiss a Pig 🐷
Kimberly Elementary hit a milestone with 400+ PTA members, and Mrs. Dyerly fulfilled her promise of kissing a pig in a lively celebration! 🎉🐷 The entire school gathered for this unforgettable moment. 🏫
Curious about becoming a PTA member? Check in with your school to join and support their fantastic initiatives! 🍎 Together, let's pave the way for a brighter future for our children and community! ✨ 🙌 🎓
School Communications
Parent Communication: What to Expect 👂👀
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.
🏢 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). 📲
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 🍑
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! 📱
🏫 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!
📲 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