Author: SUHSD

Despite high rates of hunger across the country and San Diego County, the Sweetwater District continued to provide meals during the summer break to students, who during the regular school year rely on those meals.

Nearly 1,800 students and 300 adults were given a nutritious meal at no cost over the summer break. The Seamless Summer Meals Program was set-up inside the National City Police Department Storefront offices located in the Plaza Bonita Mall.

“Our goal was to provide a bridge to students to get a meal and the proper nutrition they need and deserve during the summer,” said Eric Span, Director of Nutrition Services. “We follow all USDA guidelines and that’s something we are very proud of. “

“We appreciate being part of such a meaningful community program,” said Kelli Nenaber
Senior Director of Marketing Westfield Plaza Malls. “We greatly appreciate the efforts the Sweetwater District put into ensuring the families in our community are cared for and nourished, especially outside the school year routine. “

Any child 18 and under was given a free meal which included breakfast and lunch options. Thanks to a grant, meals were also provided to nearly 300 adults as well.

According to Span, in addition to the no cost meal, guests were happy that there was seating made available to enjoy their meals.

“A lot of kids like to spend most of their days during the summer at the mall. This was a great opportunity to reach kids while their out and about enjoying their summer break,” said Span.

In its third year of working towards Excellence through Equity, the Sweetwater District hosted its first Inaugural Equity Symposium. The event, held at Olympian High School was attended by more than 1,500 district teachers, faculty and staff.

The theme of this year’s Symposium suggests “Excellence through Equity” and the districts goal was to share ideas and possibilities as well as explore challenges related to the implementation of educational equity in our schools.

The symposium looked at student equity through the lens of relationships and the essence of education being based on creating a culture of excellence for all students.

“Today is about continuing our work around teaching, learning and equity,” said Sweetwater District Superintendent Dr. Karen Janney. “Our classrooms often time are the safe harbor for many of our students in an uncertain world. It’s crucial that we empower each student to attain their personal and academic goals while they are with us.”

There were more than 80 different panelists and presenters who shared their knowledge and experiences during high engaging sessions and workshops throughout the symposium.

Dr. Pedro Noguera, a distinguished Professor of Education and Information Studies at UCLA keynoted the symposium. Noguera’s research focuses on the ways in which schools are influenced by social and economic conditions, as well as by demographic trends in local, regional and global texts.

In his keynote address, Noguera said he was heartened by his visit to Sweetwater, and he noted schools need to get in the culture of affirming students. He said, “When that is done, kids rise above their circumstances. When they are left to figure things out on their own, that is when schools produce inequalities.”

During his keynote, Noguera shared that equity and equality are not the same. So how do we accommodate the differences amongst our students? He suggests, “by eliminating barriers in learning for all students. Be the advocates and barriers when needed for children who have none.”

Today more than ever, there is a need and desire for more inclusive schools, greater access and opportunities for students, fairness, and improved student outcomes.

“The Sweetwater District is committed to promoting excellence for staff, students, schools, communities, the district office, and both systematic and systemic programs,” said Dr. Fulcher, Assistant Superintendent of Equity, Culture and Support Services. “We will continue to make this year the year to make a difference in the lives of our students.”

Thanks to the help of Sweetwater District’s local and state leaders, a major upgrade is on its way for a competitive swimming pool at Mar Vista High School.

Sen. Ben Hueso, Assemblyman Todd Gloria, Imperial Beach Mayor Serge Dedina and other leaders recently announced $2 million from the state budget will be allocated to the Sweetwater Union High School District to fund improvements to the pool in the beach town community.

At this time, the swimming pool faces closure due to corrosion, pipe breaks and other building code problems.

“The Sweetwater District and Mar Vista High community are extremely thankful for our elected representatives advocacy for our students and community,” said Sweetwater District Board of Trustees President Paula Hall.

“For years the swimming pool at Mar Vista High has faced closure due to its disrepair. Thanks to the State’s investment of $2 million dollars and the fundraising of the City of Imperial Beach and the Sweetwater District, the pool will now be redeveloped and preserved for generations to come!” said Assemblymember Todd Gloria.

The issues could affect students who live in the area and have no other options for swimming. The problems could also impact schools that use the pool for water polo or other sports.

As part of the State Legislature’s 2018-2019 State Budget, Senator Ben Hueso helped secure millions of dollars in State funding for much-needed improvements in the 40th Senate District, including water quality projects, construction of public facilities and workforce development programs. Part of those dollars of in gap funding from the state will secure and build a new joint-use pool.

“If you want to go fast, go alone,” said Sweetwater District Superintendent Dr. Karen Janney. “ If you want to go far, go together. With this new development and with huge thanks to our California representatives we are continuing the work in “Putting Students First” here in Sweetwater.”