Carlsbad Unified School District

March 2012 Message from the Superintendent

2012-02-27T08:45:00.003-08:00

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
A Monthly Update from John A. Roach, Ed.D. to Families in our World-Class District
March 2012: Parent Group Puts its Heart into Our Schools

Several months ago, a few proactive parents gathered in a Carlsbad park. While their kids played, the moms and dads brainstormed. One of that early team, Claudine Jones, the mother of a Kelly first-grader and fourth-grader, says the catalyst was the impact that the ever-worsening state fiscal crisis is having on Carlsbad Unified schools. She explains, “This crisis can do permanent harm. I want my kids to get into a good college. For that, they need the great education Carlsbad children have long enjoyed. We want to continue the high quality of schools and teachers that makes families such as mine choose to live here. Budget cuts put that education in peril for my kids and everyone else’s.”

The meetings gave birth to the CUSD Parent and Community Budget Task Force, comprised of action-oriented people with passion and determination. Their goal is to raise awareness and raise funds to support our K-12 schools. The group has partnered with the Carlsbad Educational Foundation (CEF) as a fundraising conduit, enabling funds to stream via the CEF to our District.

The Task Force created a simple but powerful message: “ I [heart] Carlsbad Schools.” They placed the slogan on buttons and began soliciting the support of local businesses and organizations, including the New Village Arts, which is donating $10 of each “Comedy of Errors” ticket purchased to the group. (Performances continue through March 4th. www.newvillagearts.org)

They have designated April 28th-May 6th as “I [heart] Carlsbad Schools” week. People are encouraged to shop, dine and have fun locally at establishments bearing the slogan as well as at events, with a portion of proceeds earmarked to support District schools. The first is Celebrate Carlsbad Day at Legoland on April 28th. The next is the May 5th Spring Fiesta presented by the City’s Housing and Neighborhood Services, followed by the May 6th Village Street Faire.

If you love Carlsbad schools, mark these dates on your calendar and visit www.carlsbadunified.com. Your ideas, participation and support will be welcomed. Task Force: We [heart] you!

Stay abreast of District doings and get up-to-the-minute Superintendent updates at www.twitter.com/SuptRoach.

Message from the Superintendent February 2012

2012-01-27T08:31:00.000-08:00

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
A Monthly Update from John A. Roach, Ed.D. to Families in our World-Class District

February 2012: Good Guidance

Libraries have been called the great equalizer of society. Anyone can walk in and become educated on just about anything, at no cost. This unfettered access to information is invaluable to everyone, especially our children.

In pursuit of its commitment to education and the community, the Carlsbad City Library offers a free Homework Zone (HZ) program for students in grades 1-12. The HZ operates Monday through Thursday afternoons at each of its three facilities: Cole Library (1250 Carlsbad Village Drive, 434-2870), Dove Library (1775 Dove Lane, 602-2049) and bilingual Learning Center (3368 Eureka Place, 931-4500). Walk-in students receive help on a first-come, first-served basis.

Altruistic HZ volunteers do not do the kids’ homework for them. They guide students to find the answers themselves, thereby teaching a key lesson that goes beyond homework assistance. Your kids can get help with a variety of academics, including studying for a test and writing a report. Volunteers also help students learn effective study skills.

Just having someone to work with, one on one, can work wonders, confirms volunteer Tara Sterk, who devotes two hours a week to the program. She says, “Sometimes children need to have something explained in a different way than in the classroom. I love seeing kids understanding the concepts. Watching that light come on in their head makes my time totally worth it.” Valley sixth-grader Elisa says her daily tutorials help with her most difficult subject: math. She reports, “My grade is going up and now I like math better because I can do it.”

Elisa’s buoyant sense of confidence is a beneficial by-product of the Homework Zone, a program that exemplifies the positive partnership among the District, the City and the residents of Carlsbad. You can obtain HZ information at http://www.carlsbadca.gov/services/departments/library/kids/Pages/homework.aspx. If you’d like to help students zone in on homework, call 434-2877.

Stay abreast of District doings and get up-to-the-minute Superintendent updates at www.twitter.com/SuptRoach.

That's How I See It: 11,000 Hungry Minds to Feed

2012-01-20T07:45:00.000-08:00

Consider a hypothetical family whose income, due to a lousy economy, decreases drastically while the cost of necessities such as food and shelter remains the same or increases. The family taps into its savings, but eventually those dollars are depleted and hard choices lie ahead.

This is the box in which Carlsbad Unified is ensconced. Over the past four years, our revenue “pie” has shrunk from $89.3M in 2009 to $85.9M in 2010 to $85.6M in 2011 to $73.1M in 2012. Our expenditure “pie” has remained relatively stable, decreasing from $83.9M in 2009 to $82.2M in 2012. This stability is due primarily to the Board’s prudent fiscal policy that led us to accumulate sizable reserves that we tapped. We also achieved economic savings through proactive energy management, restructuring internally and pursuing unpalatable actions such as increasing class size and eliminating programs.

Now, with reserves tapped out and facing a 2012-13 $7.8M budget shortfall, we continue cutting. Some actions, such as eliminating travel/conference budgets and reducing department accounts, are relatively painless. More painful, and controversial, are potential decisions to close schools, lay off teachers and pursue other actions that – make no mistake – will have an adverse effect on students in terms of fewer resources and opportunities.

To date, we have been fortunate – thanks to our staff, who continue to do more with less – to maintain exceptional student achievement, as evidenced by high API scores. All schools exceed the state average and pass with at least 800; some achieve among the highest scores in the county.

Currently, we await external events that may favorably impact finances, such as the Governor’s November education ballot initiative and potential re-direction of local redevelopment funds. But we are not relying on uncertain, potential increased revenues to propel us out of this tight financial box. Instead, we are thinking outside the box by exploring creative solutions such as nurturing partnerships with sister agencies, supportive organizations and forward-thinking businesses who understand the positive impact an educated workforce has upon the community’s economy and quality of life.

We cannot balance the budget solely by increasing revenue OR decreasing expenditures. We must do both. We have done both. We will continue to do both.

Contrary to some opinions, the fact is that we have been living within our means. Whether it’s closing two schools to save under $1M, cutting compensation (already below the state unified district average), or doing something ridiculously untenable like not purchasing school supplies to save $3M, no one, clean, simple cut that erases $7.8M exists.

Up-to-date financial information is posted at http://carlsbadusdbusiness.blogspot.com/. My management team and I are available to speak – and to listen – to individuals and groups about our evolving plan to decrease expenditures and increase revenues while preserving the high quality of education that attracts people to Carlsbad.

We have a District family with 11,000 hungry K-12 minds to feed. Whether it’s Dutch apple or pizza, there are only so many ways to split the pie.

And that’s how I see it,
John A. Roach, Ed.D.
District Superintendent

January 20, 2012
To share your views on this subject, please email webmaster@carlsbadusd.net.

That's How I See It: Carlsbad Ed is Our Friend

2012-01-12T12:54:00.000-08:00

In 1967, the Beatles sang that they got by with a little help from their friends. Today, facing continuing financial challenges, Carlsbad Unified School District and the 11,000 K-12 students we educate get by with not a little but a LOT of help from our District friend, the Carlsbad Educational Foundation (CEF).

We view the Foundation as our partner, our supporter, our biggest fan and our friend. The CEF even has a friendly name: Ed, as in Carlsbad Ed.

Many of our schools receive monetary support from parent groups as well as from individual and corporate grants. Carlsbad Ed is unique in that it is the “friend” group to the entire District and to all of our schools. The money it raises helps us provide programs we otherwise could not afford to offer, and helps students learn the 21st-century skills and technology they will need to succeed in college, career and life.

Recent CEF grants have been music to our students’ ears, providing weekly elementary school classes in this important art form that has been linked to student achievement. Grants fund hands-on science programs that give every CUSD student practical opportunities to learn about and engage the world through the wonders of science. Carlsbad Ed also invests in initiatives that drive increased student achievement by supporting promising new and expanding innovative programs.

These targeted investments positively impact our District in many ways. I hope you visit our good friend Ed at www.carlsbaded.org and I personally encourage you to support the organization that supports our schools.

And that’s how I see it,
John A. Roach, Ed.D.
District Superintendent
January 12, 2012

To share your views on this subject, please email webmaster@carlsbadusd.net.

Message from the Superintendent January 2012

2011-12-27T08:31:00.000-08:00

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
A Monthly Update from John A. Roach, Ed.D. to Families in our World-Class District

January 2012: Anonymous Tip Programs Promote Safety

Tips are greatly appreciated by barbers, wait staff and cab drivers. A different genre of tips is much valued by our District. These tips, reported anonymously, can keep our students safe and our campuses secure. They can even save lives.

Last year, shortly after implementing the Students Speaking Out (SSO) program (http://studentspeakingout.org) in partnership with the Carlsbad Police Department (CPD) at our three middle schools, Carlsbad High School and Carlsbad Village Academy, a tip was received regarding students passing around marijuana on the Calavera Hills Middle School campus. After receiving the report via the CPD’s School Resource Officer, Interim Principal Carol LaBreche relates, “We spoke with students, ascertained the accuracy of the tip and gathered sufficient evidence to take appropriate corrective actions, including suspensions.”

She believes the program has enhanced trust on campus between students and staff, noting, “Having seen the positive impact of anonymous tipping, our students feel more confident and secure coming directly to us to report an array of problems, including bullying. They know their privacy and confidentiality will be maintained and are more apt to confide in us and share their concerns.”

To augment the reach and enhance the positive impacts of SSO, we now have embarked on another free but invaluable partnership. The We Tip (www.wetip.com) national program features anonymous telephone tip lines that students, families, staff and the general public can easily access to report incidents of bullying, drugs, vandalism and weapons on campus. Information on workplace issues such as fraud, embezzlement and a hostile work environment also can be reported confidentially, all without fear of retribution.

We Tip, SSO and other District programs and policies, including school safety regulations governing registered sex offenders, combine to promote safer campuses. Our goal is to ensure an abundance of ways in which issues can be brought to the attention of school officials and law enforcement to serve as a deterrent and to enhance our abilities to intervene, when needed.

It takes a village to raise a child. It takes a strong District-, City- and community-wide effort to keep all of our children safe and secure.

Stay abreast of District doings and get up-to-the-minute Superintendent updates at www.twitter.com/SuptRoach.

That's How I See It: Time for a New Gold Standard

2011-12-07T09:04:00.000-08:00

THAT’S HOW I SEE IT …
Time for a New Gold Standard

As we learned in California history courses, fortune-seekers ventured here in droves during the 1840s in search of gold. For decades until recently, people were enticed to our Golden State by golden opportunities; not the least of which was a great public education system beginning in kindergarten and continuing through community colleges, state universities and the UC system.

Today, California ranks 44th in the nation in per-pupil funding and last in librarians per K-12 students. Over the past several years, the state’s budget woes have worsened annually, with no quick fixes or pending solutions in sight. Like other public school districts statewide, Carlsbad Unified and our 11,000 students suffer the consequences of problems not of our making.

Where has California’s gold gone? Is the promise of golden educational opportunities extinct?

I and many others emphatically say no. Several proactive people and groups are stepping up to the plate; among them, our longtime supporter, the Carlsbad Educational Foundation (www.carlsbaded.org) and parent groups such as www.carlsbadunified.com.

Based on survey results in which 98.5% of respondents said adequate school funding is important, the California PTA (www.capta.org) is supporting the Local Schools and Early Education Investment Act initiative slated for the November 2012 statewide ballot. This measure would raise approximately $1,300/pupil in new funding every year.

The San Diego Foundation has launched Our Greater San Diego Vision to plan for our region’s future in many aspects, including education. The San Diego County Office of Education and our District strongly encourage all education stakeholders to participate by joining the conversation and taking the survey at www.OurGreaterSanDiegoVision.org/SDCOE. In it, you can share your thoughts regarding mandatory preK and kindergarten education for all, expanding education options in the local marketplace, educating kids to compete in a global economy and other priorities. By expressing your concerns, you can make sure that the voice of education is heard.

California has always been not merely a state, but an optimistic, innovative state of mind. I believe that our golden days are not just in the past, but in the future. I urge you to get informed and get involved. The price of gold fluctuates. The value of our children’s education is priceless.

And that’s how I see it,
John A. Roach, Ed.D.
District Superintendent, DECEMBER 7, 2011
To share your views on this subject, please email webmaster@carlsbadusd.net.

Message from the Superintendent December 2011

2011-11-28T17:00:00.000-08:00

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
A Monthly Update from John A. Roach, Ed.D. to Families in our World-Class District
December 2011: Saving Energy and Money

We have great news to report: Thanks to our “energetic” District-wide approach to conservation, over the past 30 months from March 2009 through August 2011, we saved 23% in electricity, natural gas and water. That percentage reduction exceeds our original goal of 20% and equates to about $1 million!

Now more than ever, this financial savings is significant and needed. With the District facing a potential budget shortfall of about $10.6 million in school year 2012-13, the money saved keeps the deficit from being even larger. As Devin Vodicka, Ed.D., Assistant Superintendent, Business Services, notes, “We are demonstrating fiscal and environmental responsibility, both of which are important in terms of commitment to serving students.”

How did we conserve so much and so well? Through a conscientious effort on the part of all staff, through a partnership with consultant Energy Education, Inc. and through the efforts of our very own “Energy Dude,” AKA CUSD’s Energy Conservation Manager Darin Vey.

Each of our sites did a great job of saving electricity, natural gas and water. Kelly Elementary conserved the most utilities by percentage in 2010-11: 32%! Kelly Principal Tressie Armstrong credits the savings to a school-wide focus on “the small things that add up: shutting off computers, turning off lights, leaving doors shut when air/heat is on, and in general, adhering to Darin’s guidelines.”

These and other conservation methods we follow at our sites are things that you can easily do in your home and office. When you create your New Year’s Resolutions, don’t forget to put conservation high on the list. For tips, email dvey@carlsbadusd.net.

In 2012 and beyond, we plan to continue being good stewards of our District’s natural and fiscal resources. To learn more about our conservation program, please visit http://www.carlsbadusd.k12.ca.us/energy.html.

Stay abreast of District doings and get up-to-the-minute Superintendent updates at www.twitter.com/SuptRoach.

Message from the Superintendent November 2011

2011-10-28T10:38:00.000-07:00

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
A Monthly Update from John A. Roach, Ed.D. to Families in our World-Class District

November 2011: Doing Right on the Side of Safety

We are continually cognizant of the trust parents place in our schools to keep their children safe. As a parent, I understand the trepidation that can accompany moms and dads dropping off their daughters and sons – especially in the lower grades – at school every day.

We honor that trust in many ways, with a focus on keeping students secure. First and foremost, we do everything we can to keep students safe from outside intruders. This summer, we used Prop P funds to shore up fencing at several sites. Most parents like the new security. Others say our protective fencing make them feel as if kids are in prison. Far from it! The security fencing is installed not to keep students in, but to keep intruders out.

The September 30th lockdown exemplifies our emergency planning and response protocols intended to ensure the safety of students and staff. When, due to an electronic glitch, a parent relayed what was later determined to be an unfounded alert warning of a possible armed intruder on one of our campuses, we immediately directed all 14 sites to lock down. Once campuses were searched and deemed safe, we lifted the lockdown.

The entire episode lasted less than 90 minutes, but effects can endure. Some parents said their kindergarten kids were confused while a few said their older students were anxious. (One resilient third-grader told his mom, “I remembered that I knew karate and could use what I learned if I had to!”)

We regularly practice comprehensive emergency drills at all sites. Children know to follow instructions calmly and quickly. Last spring, one elementary school responded to a fire alarm by filing out to the playground in an orderly fashion. After the cause was discovered, the principal told everyone, “It’s OK. Just a piece of burnt toast!” Amid laughter and relief, students and staff returned to classrooms as the principal thanked them for their composure.

Whether it’s burnt toast or a perceived outside menace, we take every threat seriously. “Erring on the side of caution” is a truism, but our actions are a purposeful procedure. We take every necessary precaution and follow a rigorous protocol. You can feel confident that every day on every campus for every student, we do not err on the side of caution. We do right on the side of safety.

Stay abreast of District doings and get up-to-the-minute Superintendent updates at www.twitter.com/SuptRoach.

That's How I See It Budget Crisis Offers a Lesson in Democracy

2011-10-16T14:21:00.000-07:00

THAT’S HOW I SEE IT …
Budget Crisis Offers a Lesson in Democracy

Local government is said to be the purest form of democracy, because people can have a voice in the decision-making process. I believe people SHOULD have a voice. I and our five Board Trustees hear and consider what you say as we work through difficult times together.

Earlier this month, I sent a letter to District staff and a letter to District families regarding the projected FY 2012-13 $11 million budget shortfall. With an anticipated $71 in revenues and $82 million in expenditures, we must find ways to reduce the latter since we cannot increase the former. We must present our First Interim budget to the San Diego County Office of Education in December; thus, we are currently pondering harsh cuts that will undoubtedly affect all of us. What the Board and I hope to impact the least is our 11,000 students’ academic achievement.

At the October 12th Board meeting, I presented a list of possible ways to cover the shortfall. None is desirable, but some are less unpalatable then others, believes the Board. It is considering spending cuts that include reducing salaries and benefits, eliminating administrative positions, delaying the Fall 2013 opening of Sage Creek High and other cuts.

The meeting offered an opportunity for the many parents in attendance to voice their concerns. It was an example of democracy in action, and it was followed by some parents getting together in a park over the weekend to engage in what they called an “out of the box” discussion to find “creative solutions” to bridge the budget gap. Adults brainstormed while their children played.

What a great example parents are setting for their children by getting involved! One mom said, “We’re not just concerned as parents of students. We’re concerned as citizens of Carlsbad.”

Families move to Carlsbad and stay here in part because of the quality of education. None of us – Board members, administrators, classified staff, certificated staff – wants to allow our high level of education to deteriorate. As we work through this problem together, we promise to keep you informed. Up-to-date information is available at http://carlsbadusdbusiness.blogspot.com/

Whether you share your comments and ideas with us at a Board meeting, through social media, at your child’s school or even when you see one of us at the grocery store or taking a walk on the beach, you are participating in the purest – and possibly the most effective – form of democracy in this nation. That’s a pretty heady thought, and a powerful civics lesson for your children. Showing that people can disagree without being disagreeable is one of the most important lessons of all.

And that’s how I see it,
John A. Roach, Ed.D.
District Superintendent, OCTOBER 16, 2011
To share your views on this subject, please email webmaster@carlsbadusd.net.

Message from the Superintendent Oct 6 2011

2011-10-07T10:59:00.000-07:00

Working Together to Achieve Academic Excellence in a Difficult Economy

October 6, 2011
Dear Carlsbad Unified School District Families, Friends and Community:

This fall, as we celebrate our 40th anniversary as a unified school district, our 90th anniversary as a multi-site (Carlsbad Union) school district and nearly 140 years of educating students in Carlsbad, beginning with the first one-room schoolhouse established in 1872, I am proud of the partnership that has always existed between the community and its schools. I am grateful to our close-knit school families and the wider Carlsbad community for supporting our efforts as we strive to continue improving student achievement.

Together, we have shared many good times and great accomplishments. Together, over the past few years, we have faced difficulties and overcome obstacles. Today, we are confronting a great financial challenge. Once again, we must work together to prevail.

Mired in the national “Great Recession” and impacted by the State’s continuing budget crisis, Carlsbad Unified has taken advantage of many creative solutions to continue providing an exceptional education to our students. To date, our District has been able to avoid draconian actions experienced by many other public school districts. Although we had to increase class size in grades 1-3 this year, we have been able to minimize other adverse impacts such as truncated school years, cuts to key programs and widespread layoffs.

We have accomplished this by combining a prudent fiscal approach with creative re-allocations of monies. Despite State-imposed cuts and a flat local economy with no increase in property tax revenue, we have balanced our FY2010-11 and 2011-12 budgets by using our reserves: $1.62 million in 2010-11 and a projected $11 million in 2011-12. We also have reduced expenditures wherever and whenever possible. We have enjoyed certain unexpected revenues from State and Federal programs. We have aggressively sought and utilized numerous ways to re-allocate monies from programs to apply to the deficit. In everything we have done, our focus has always remained on retaining our people and continuing to provide an exceptional education to each of our approximately 11,000 students.

We hoped that our efforts would enable us to maintain sufficient reserves to outlast what has become the Great Recession. They will not. We are facing a shortfall of nearly $11 million for FY 2012-13. We must cover this shortfall and balance the budget.

With no more one-time fixes available and no strong economic recovery on the horizon, we are asking all of our staff – including management – to take a substantial reduction in salary and benefits. A 20% across-the-board cut would cover the $11 million shortfall. A lesser cut will significantly reduce the shortfall, but require unpalatable yet necessary deep program cuts. We are entering negotiations with unions while meticulously scrutinizing all operational areas and options to ascertain cuts that will have the least negative impacts on students. We may not always agree on the best way to proceed, but all of us at the District agree that our overarching priority is always our kids. Educating Carlsbad’s children is our reason for being; we will never lose sight of that.

Despite unsettling financial circumstances, our District and our great staff have kept the focus on students. This year’s Districtwide Academic Performance Index (API) marks our highest yet: 867. That number is 38 points higher than our 2007 API and 89 points about the 2011 Statewide average of 778. All our standard schools achieved “passing” APIs of more than 800. Five are above 900.

These academic attainments, and all student successes daily taking place quietly in every classroom in every school, are a tribute to all of us working together. I am hopeful that, with the dedication of our staff, bolstered by the incredible support we enjoy from our school families, District partners and the Carlsbad community, we will continue to provide the world-class education for which Carlsbad is famous. More information will be forthcoming on our website at www.carlsbadusd.k12.ca.us and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/carlsbadunifiedschooldistrict. I also invite you to follow me at www.twitter.com/suptroach, read my blogs at http://carlsbadunified.blogspot.com/, and email me at jroach@carlsbadusd.net. Thank you.

Sincerely,
John A. Roach
John A. Roach, Ed.D.; District Superintendent

Message from the Superintendent October 2011

2011-09-30T09:42:00.000-07:00

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
A Monthly Update from John A. Roach, Ed.D. to Families in our World-Class District

October 2011: Synergy for our Schools

There is strength in numbers, and in school year 2010-11, that strength translated into a significant number for Carlsbad Unified School District. The District’s Grant Writing Collaborative (GWC) garnered $77,790 in grants.

The Collaborative operates under the umbrella of the Carlsbad Educational Foundation (CEF). The nonprofit CEF was founded in 1983 to bolster education within our District by providing financial support. With California ranking 47th out of the 50 United States in per-pupil funding, the contributions provided by this valuable District partner are priceless to our students.

The GWC is a joint effort among CUSD sites to raise funds in support of a wide variety of school programs. Parent-volunteers functioning as liaisons from various sites research and apply for grants to enhance students’ education. Chair Claudine Jones says the synergy is highly productive. “We network with each other, share resources and write collaborative grants.”

Recently, the GWC obtained a grant from the Carlsbad Charitable Foundation that will change the environmental footprint at two elementary schools. The $10,000 grant is funding the innovative “Carlsbad Kids Go Green” project kicking off at Jefferson and Kelly this fall. This ambitious effort features school-wide recycling and zero-waste lunchroom programs that can be replicated at other sites and that set a high “green” standard for school districts everywhere.

The Collaborative hopes to pursue more multi-site grant opportunities. The group meets on the second Thursday of each month at the CEF office. It also presents periodic grant-writing workshops. For information, call the CEF at 760-929-1555 or email Claudine Jones at claudine_castonon@yahoo.com.

Our District is very fortunate to have the support of committed parent-volunteers and of the Carlsbad Educational Foundation. One might say that this support is the foundation of much of our students’ success.

Stay abreast of District doings and get up-to-the-minute Superintendent updates at www.twitter.com/SuptRoach.

That's How I See It -- Problem-Solving is Important in Math, and in Life

2011-09-10T08:47:00.000-07:00

On the afternoon of Thursday, September 8th, I was preparing my assessment to the Board of Trustees based on our recent Academic Profile Index (API) test scores and Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) report, when the now-infamous power outage created havoc on the roadways and consternation in homes, as well as food in the fridge that would need to be tossed.

My leadership team and administrators went into immediate action that late afternoon into the evening and early morning hours, but encountered a dilemma when the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) superintendent determined to close all public schools on the 9th.

We have a comprehensive emergency communications plan to keep families and staff informed by email, landline, cell phone, District website and social media, including Facebook and Twitter. But what can be done when computers are down, landlines are not operational and cell phones and other devices are losing power? Due to the geographical size of the outage and the attempts by hundreds of thousands of folks trying to contact family members, even people with powered-up devices found their calls and texts did not go through. With cable TV also down in many areas, a lot of people wondered if school would be open or closed on Friday.

Most power was restored by dawn on Friday. Thanks to staff who, like I, went virtually sleepless, on early Friday morning we notified families and staff via several communications tools that schools would be closed. We kept them posted while we worked all day to make sure that systems would be up and functioning properly for schools to re-open safely on Monday.

When I was able to return to my assessment, I again pondered our test results. Our Districtwide API rose from 859 in 2010 to 867 in 2011; the latter is 89 points above the statewide average of 778. All of our standard schools achieved APIs of at least 800; five above 900. This is fantastic, yet due to the increasingly high proficiency goals of No Child Left Behind (NCLB) that I believe are unrealistic and that SDCOE spokesman Jim Esterbooks calls “preposterously confusing,” four CUSD schools have entered Year One of Program Improvement.

Yes, test scores reflect and predict educational success. Academic achievement is critical. Yet there are people who can solve a complex geometry problem but can’t problem-solve in the real world. Some people who are not good test-takers can cope masterfully with the unexpected.

We need to make sure that all of our children can solve problems in math, and in life. That way, we can trust that they will be able to light their way to success … even when the power goes out.

And that’s how I see it,
John A. Roach, Ed.D.
District Superintendent
SEPTEMBER 10, 2011

To share your views on this subject, please email webmaster@carlsbadusd.net.

Message from the Superintendent September 2011

2011-08-26T15:03:00.001-07:00

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
A Monthly Update from John A. Roach, Ed.D. to Families in our World-Class District
September 2011: Educating the Whole Child

Welcome to school year 2011-12! Soon, we will have Academic Performance Index (API) reports to share with you. Academic achievement, of course, is the primary focus of education. Buttressing and enhancing academic progress is an aspect that cannot be measured on standardized tests, but is nonetheless vital: life skills.

Our character-based youth development program is intended to teach life skills to our students, K-12. The process encompasses more than simply “teaching” kids. I liken it to planting the seeds of exemplary character traits, then nurturing them as students progress from grade to grade. Ideally, these traits will become an intrinsic part of who they are and how they live their life.

Each month, from September through June, we focus on a specific trait: Citizenship, Responsibility, Cooperation, Caring, Respect, Fairness/Justice, Trustworthiness/Integrity, Perseverance and Ambition, respectively. The traits are incorporated into the academic curriculum and taught by trained teachers in a grade-appropriate way at all schools.

The goal is to promote school connectedness and safety on each campus. But the process goes far beyond that, says Student Services Specialist Rosemary Eshelman. She explains, “We adults model the traits. Each month, we inculcate them in students, celebrate them in various activities and recognize students who exemplify the traits at a high level. We hope the modeling has a ripple effect in off-campus attitudes and actions, reverberating out to the wider community and being reflected in sports and other extra-curricular activities.”

Is it working? We believe so. We are confident our character education program decreases the potential for conflict, results in fewer disciplinary incidents and helps all children feel safe and connected in school. Rosemary recalls, “A recent County Office of Education visitor to a middle school told me how impressed he was with the campus environment, which he felt the minute he stepped into the office and was greeted by mature students who made eye contact, conversed well, exhibited mutual respect with office staff and responded to his questions.”

If awards were given to “America’s Top Character Models,” Carlsbad Unified students would be in the limelight. We thank you for reinforcing our monthly character traits and modeling them in your own homes and our community.

Stay abreast of District doings and get up-to-the-minute Superintendent updates at www.twitter.com/SuptRoach.

That's How I See It: Be an Advocate for Kids. Join PTA

2011-08-05T09:15:00.000-07:00

THAT’S HOW I SEE IT …
Be an Advocate for Kids. Join PTA.

As one of two working parents who raised three kids, I know how hectic life can be. Nevertheless, the time you invest in one organization close to the hearts of many moms, dads and teachers will pay huge dividends for your children, their schools and our community.

I’m talking about the PTA, which is the largest organization solely devoted to what’s best for kids. PTAs and PTSAs are the backbone of our public school system. All CUSD elementary and middle schools rely on a PTA and no, not for cookies (although they’re always welcome), but as a powerful advocacy group.

Although their priority is advocating, not fundraising, PTAs do raise money for valuable school-specific programs. Here in Carlsbad, they supplement the work of site friends’ groups and the Carlsbad Educational Foundation in supporting our schools.

The mission of our Ninth District PTA of which we are a part, is to advocate for all children and youth of San Diego and Imperial Counties. This regional body serves the community through education, collaboration and resource services.

We also are under the umbrella of the “every child/one voice” California State PTA. CAPTA leads the fight to provide all children with the education and opportunities they need to succeed.

I recently ran across a 1994 PTA newsletter. The thoughts therein are equally valid today: “PTA is not composed of the officers … the school principal and staff … the committee chair. PTA is composed of the membership. This is the strength of our organization.”

Your school PTA – and I – ask you to join with us at this crucial time because: 1) budget cuts threaten an entire generation of children; 2) parents and families need access to great resources and information to help their children; and 3) boosting membership increases our overall power to advocate for all students, including yours.

For decades, I’ve been a proud PTA member; as a teacher, a parent and an administrator. I strongly encourage you to join this wonderful organization as well. See you at PTA!

And that’s how I see it,

John A. Roach, Ed.D

District Superintendent
AUGUST 11, 2011

To share your views on this subject, please email webmaster@carlsbadusd.net.

A Message From the Superintendent August 2011

2011-07-26T13:31:00.000-07:00

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
A Monthly Update from John A. Roach, Ed.D. to Families in our World-Class District
August 2011: Parent Survey Provides Valuable Insights

As a District and at our individual schools, we focus on continuous quality improvement. To ascertain how we are doing, in general and in particular, each spring we invite parents to complete an online survey with questions driven by research on effective schools. Together with spring surveys completed by staff and by students, the results of the parent survey are carefully studied and subsequently utilized to inform each school’s plans for the coming year. We also base District-wide improvements upon insights gleaned from the surveys.

This year, 500+ parents of K-12 students at all schools took the time to thoughtfully answer an array of multiple-choice and open-ended questions. We thank you for your responses and commitment to your children’s education. Devin Vodicka, Ed.D., Assistant Superintendent of Business Services, says, “We take all responses and comments under consideration. If a particular school receives excellent feedback in a category, we use that school’s example as a best practices guide for other sites to model. If a school seems to have areas of concern, we address that.”

We were heartened to learn that, overall, 73% of parents are satisfied with their child’s school. On the other hand, 18% express some level of dissatisfaction. We have worked over the summer and will continue striving to research and resolve specific issues. As one example, 22% of respondents do not believe sufficient training and support are provided to parents to enhance their parenting. We will address that area and others in need of improvement.

A majority of respondents believes effective communications vehicles are in place. Many rely on tools such as Blackboard Connect (the email and voice message system), the District website and schools’ individual web pages. During the past several months, we have expanded our social media platforms for even better, faster and more up-to-the-minute communications. When you visit www.carlsbadusd.k12.ca.us (we hope you do so frequently), click on our Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Blog feeds.

As we start this exciting new school year with the first day of class on August
30th, you can be confident that parent, student, and staff survey responses have been given meticulous consideration. You also can be assured that we are receptive to questions, suggestions and concerns throughout the year. I personally invite you to relay your thoughts directly to the teacher or principal. All of us –parents, teachers, support staff and administrators – have the same goal: to provide a world-class education to each of our nearly 11,000 kids.

Stay abreast of District doings and get up-to-the-minute Superintendent updates at www.twitter.com/SuptRoach

That's How I See It ... Getting Schooled in Technology

2011-07-15T09:29:00.000-07:00

On a sweltering Saturday this July, instead of crossing off items on my honey-do list, I was in an air-conditioned Atlanta conference room tweeting about technology; how it’s created a tsunami of a “sea change” in our work and our lives. At times, the technology can make us feel as if we’re in a rushing river while manning a steamship that doesn’t move or turn very quickly.

As the “captain” of our Carlsbad Unified ship, I wanted to learn more about how to harness technology as a tool for improved teaching and learning, so I attended a high-level “Technology and Our Schools” workshop presented by ERDI.

My fellow participants and I were eager to delve into the skills a 21st-century superintendent needs to understand and use. I’d like to think we are ahead of the curve. Most of the 70 superintendents in attendance own an iPad, as do I. All of us rely on smart phones.

Technology is changing the way and pace at which we work, with wide-ranging implications, challenges and, above all, possibilities. School districts are organizing themselves as digital districts, as pioneering staff lead the way into Facebook, Twitter, blogs and videos.

Teachers must be fluent in computers, iTouches and other electronic tools so they can engage students in new learning modalities. As I tweeted from the workshop, “Technology in the hands of a good teacher makes things possible that weren’t before.”

Mobile and digital devices will have an increasing impact on the K-12 landscape. More and more students will obtain some portion of their education online. It’s already happening at Carlsbad Unified and will continue to grow.

We are moving toward a blended approach; in schools, on the job and in our lives. Like it or not, technology is a titanic-sized wave of the future. I think we should like it, embrace it and utilize it to its fullest potential. And to ours.

And that’s how I see it,

John A. Roach, Ed.D
District Superintendent
JULY 15, 2011

To share your views on this subject, please email webmaster@carlsbadusd.net.

Message From the Superintendent July 2011

2011-07-01T09:10:00.000-07:00

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
A Monthly Update from John A. Roach, Ed.D. to Families in our World-Class District

July 2011: Transitions … Our District Moves Forward

June was a month of heartfelt goodbyes. July will be a month of exciting hellos.

In June, two dozen certificated, classified and administrative Carlsbad Unified staff departed for the sunny shores of retirement. They took with them decades of devotion to our students and great memories; we wish each of them well.

Stellar people are coming on board and moving to new positions. Four Board-approved appointments take effect on July 1, 2011. CHS Principal and longtime CUSD employee Maggie Stanchi is taking her considerable talents to our District Office, where she will serve as Director of Secondary Education. She says, “I immensely enjoyed my many years of service at Carlsbad High. Now, I am ready for this new challenge.”

Taking the helm at Carlsbad High is Matthew Steitz, Ed.D., previously Assistant Principal at San Marcos High School. Dr. Steitz says he is excited to begin his new duties. He states, “I look forward to working with the school’s staff, students and families to maintain and expand Lancer pride.”

Megan Coelho, who did an awesome job over the past several months, first as Assistant Principal and then Interim Principal at Aviara Oaks Middle School, has been named AOMS Principal. She is well-liked and highly respected by the school community. Megan says, “I plan to focus on effective team-building, communications and a firm commitment to student learning and achievement.”

Devin Vodicka, Ed.D., has been promoted from Director of Curriculum and Instruction to Assistant Superintendent, Business Services. Calavera Hills Elementary and Middle School parents of students during Devin’s tenure as Principal know him as a caring, dedicated administrator. He possesses a rare combination of educational expertise, business savvy and technological skills, combined with great communication and people skills.

More about these individuals can be found at www.carlsbadusd.k12.ca.us. Together, the members of our leadership team – and all of our CUSD staff – are proactive and committed to our schools, students, staff and the community. Whatever your level of participation in our District, CUSD is a great place to be.

Stay abreast of District doings and get up-to-the-minute Superintendent updates at www.twitter.com/SuptRoach.

That's How I See It: Our Students Deserve Better

2011-06-23T08:35:00.000-07:00

June 23, 2011

Take your two feet, place them as far apart as you can, then try to walk forward. Nearly impossible, isn’t it?

That’s the image I conjure up when I think about the machinations of our State, and the lack of support of our California public school system. Our elected officials are so polarized that they have paralyzed our government.

Yet ask your colleagues, friends, family and neighbors and you’ll find that most people are middle-of-the-road, not at the extremes. Some may be fiscally conservative, but socially liberal, or vice-versa, or some combination thereof, but most of us are in the middle. Unfortunately, media screamers play to the extremes. John and Ken are just one example. I’m sure you can find your own (dis)favorites, on the right and on the left. They inflame rather than inform, exacerbating the divide and keeping people apart rather than bringing them together. Common sense seems to be a most uncommon commodity, in the media and in Sacramento.

I get frustrated. Here at Carlsbad Unified, adhering to harsh realities, we present a balanced budget by June 30th for the coming year, as required by law. Meanwhile, our unbalanced State legislators ignore those requirements and muddle along for months, leaving public schools and the children they serve in an uncertain position every year.

As of March 2011, districts throughout California issued 19,000 layoff notices. Thanks to our Basic Aid status and our Board’s prudent fiscal approach, we have thus far been able to minimize adverse impacts, although we have found it necessary to increase class size in grades K-3 beginning in the 2011-12 school year. Still, our situation, if not perilous, remains precarious. Basic Aid status does not prevent the State from seizing ever-increasing “fair share” percentages.

Who suffers the most from the State’s dysfunction and the media’s inflaming of the electorate? Our students. They deserve better. Far better.

And that’s how I see it,

John Roach

District Superintendent

To share your views on this subject, please email webmaster@carlsbadusd.net.

June 2011 Message from the Superintendent

2011-06-13T15:00:00.000-07:00

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
A Monthly Update from John A. Roach, Ed.D. to Families in our World-Class District

June 2011: Kindle Kids’ Passion for Summer Learning

Remember when you were a kid? Starting in spring, you’d yearn for summer vacation, but by the dog days of August, boredom would set in and you could hardly wait for school to begin once again.

Summertime should be a fun time, but it should not be a downtime of learning. Among younger students, as much as 60% of math and reading skills can be lost during a long vacation period. Before school ends this month, speak with your child’s teacher to ascertain ways to shore up academic weak spots and enrich strengths in preparation for the upcoming school year. Make a plan with your student; track progress; then schedule a mini-ceremony to celebrate the plan’s successful completion.

Thanks to modern technology, tools abound to keep children’s minds active when school is not in session. But you don’t need a jazzy e-reader; simply visit the library and stock up on books. While there, ask about free summer reading programs, especially for the younger set, or visit http://www.carlsbadlibrary.org.

At home, create “edutainment” opportunities that combine learning and fun. Gather a group of kids to create and present a skit. Play family games such as scrabble. Plant a backyard garden: engage kids in measuring the dimensions, counting out seeds and plants, following a watering schedule and recording weekly growth. Conduct an experiment: compute the time it takes an ice cube to melt in the refrigerator, in a shady room and out in the hot sun.

Combine physical and mental activity. Use a stopwatch and run races. Challenge family members to hula hoop or jump rope for 30 seconds straight. Get a piece of chalk and head out to the sidewalk for a game of hopscotch.

Learning doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be as simple as conducting basic research on the Internet or compiling pieces of blank lined paper and keeping a daily journal.

Instilling and modeling a love of lifelong learning speak volumes to our children. I encourage you to make every day a day of learning. Read an interesting article. Engage in a thoughtful discussion. Try something new. And yes, figure out how to use all those apps on your new device. Have a great summer!

Stay abreast of District doings and get up-to-the-minute Superintendent updates at www.twitter.com/SuptRoach.

Congratulations!

2011-06-10T16:48:00.001-07:00

And That's How I See It - June, 2011

2011-05-27T14:43:00.001-07:00

Helping Our Kids Define Their Own Destiny

On June 9^th, my youngest child, Brent, graduates from Carlsbad High School. As he goes off to college, my wife Johanna and I will “graduate” from being the parents of three children to the parents of three adults. It’s a big step for all of us, and it calls up nostalgic memories of past academic milestones, starting with that leap from kindergarten to the big time: first grade.

Whether students in your life are advancing from one grade to the next, or from elementary to middle, middle to high, or high school to the next stage in their education and life, the day should be celebrated with hope, optimism and confidence.

I love graduation ceremonies! They make me feel great about the next generation and the exciting opportunities that await our idealistic kids. Come to one of the ceremonies taking place in early June at each of our sites. It’s pure joy to behold these kids so full of life.

I am always particularly inspired at the energy and exhilaration permeating the Carlsbad Village Academy graduation. Seeing these students overcome challenges, obstacles, setbacks and sometimes seemingly insurmountable difficulties to finish high school and receive their diploma with such exuberance is heartening. It reminds me why I became an educator to begin with, and why I’ve remained in this rewarding field.

I feel very hopeful that these and all our kids adhere to the words of singer Lauryn Hill, who wrote, “Deep in my heart, the answer was in me; and I made up my mind to define my own destiny.” That is what education is all about: giving our children “book learning” and life skills so they can define – and create – their own destiny.

Our District and school families form a partnership intended to get each of our students on the best path for their future. In everything we do, K-12, we strive to ensure that all students have options to succeed in whatever they learn and do.

Life is all about options and choices. It’s my job, and all of our jobs, to help our children pursue and benefit from their best choices.

And that’s how I see it,

John Roach, Ed.D

District Superintendent

May 2011 Message from the Superintendent

2011-04-26T16:43:00.000-07:00

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
A Monthly Update from John A. Roach, Ed.D. to Families in our World-Class District

May 2011: We’re Reaching Out to Keep You Informed and Involved

Want to find out how the Prop P modernization is going at Carlsbad High? How about the construction at new Sage Creek High, slated to open in Fall 2013?

Who are CUSD’s Teacher and Classified Employee of the Year (Corey Cooper Espeleta and Christine Mazurkiewicz, respectively); when will they be honored (at the May 11th Board meeting); and where do they go from here (to countywide honors, we hope!)? What are site administrators doing to safeguard their campuses and students against bullying? What language would your colleagues and friends most like to learn?

All of this and more can be found on our new Facebook page. Did you catch Mini March Madness at Poinsettia? See it in action on YouTube. Would you like to find out what’s going on District-wide and know my thoughts on diverse subjects? Check out my Twitter and Blog feeds.

These social media tools can be accessed quickly, easily and conveniently on our District website at www.carlsbadusd.k12.ca.us. We take pride in leaping ahead of the public school district curve by establishing many ways to reach out to, communicate and connect with all District segments and stakeholders.

Our website has a wealth of information. The homepage is updated regularly to keep it fresh and engaging while keeping you apprised of District doings. Our intent is to provide information of interest and importance to the community and to facilitate your ability to learn about and connect with our sites, people and programs. We have so many great things to highlight and share with you!

As our social media program evolves and expands, we will add more information, photos, videos, tidbits and timely posts. If you have suggestions, please relay them to Director of Curriculum and Instruction Devin Vodicka at dvodicka@carlsbadusd.net. He promises, “Once you ‘like’ us on Facebook, you’ll discover lots of things to ‘like’ about us!”

We look forward to seeing you on-site … literally and virtually.

Stay abreast of District doings and get up-to-the-minute Superintendent updates at www.twitter.com/SuptRoach.

April 2011 Message from the Superintendent

2011-04-13T12:48:00.000-07:00

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
A Monthly Update from John A. Roach, Ed.D. to Families in our World-Class District
April 2011:

No Place for Bullying at Our District Schools

Think back to when you were a kid. Were you ever picked on at school (as most of us were) for some physical characteristic or life circumstance beyond your control? Did the so-called “jokes” make you feel inadequate? Did the teasing and tormenting cross the line to physical bullying? Were you gratified when a teacher or other adult stuck up for you? Did it make you feel safe and secure? Of course it did.

Kids today are not different from kids in the past. What is different is the technology that enables meanness to go viral. Recently, red-haired students around the country suffered attacks on “Kick a Ginger Day,” which began as a prank on TV’s “South Park” and spread rapidly on Facebook. Just last month, a few high school students in Temecula followed a posting of an upperclassman to observe “Shove a Freshman Monday” by rudely pushing ninth-graders on campus.

Carlsbad Unified School District and its sites have policies against bullying, including cyber-bullying, which is the posting of harassing messages, cruel words and direct threats. Young teens are particularly susceptible to bullying, in person or via social media, believes Valley’s Principal Cesár Morales. He says, “Middle school can be a tumultuous time; so many changes and all at once. This is the age at which kids try and find their place in the order of things and at times feel lost. Unfortunately, some of these kids will feel bullied, harassed or alienated here at school, in a place where security should reign supreme.” Valley and other sites are achieving success with their anti-bullying programs.

I want to assure you that all of us at the District, including Board members, administrators and every staff person at your child’s school, takes our responsibilities seriously. I urge you to do the same at home, by talking candidly with your children and monitoring their technology use to make sure that they are neither the victim nor the propagator of bullying. Let’s keep social media sociable, and let’s work together to keep our kids safe.

Stay abreast of District doings and get up-to-the-minute Superintendent updates at www.twitter.com/SuptRoach.

March 2011 Message from the Superintendent

2011-03-28T11:35:00.000-07:00

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
A Monthly Update from John A. Roach, Ed.D. to Families in our World-Class District

March 2011: Time to “Court” Fun at Poinsettia

Each of our campuses is its own close-knit community, with unique “residents” and culture. Every March, nine of these communities – our elementary schools – court fun at a round-robin basketball tournament played by fifth-grade girls’ and boys’ teams. Take my word for it: it’s a mad ball enjoyed by all!

Our March Madness tournament is the brainchild of Poinsettia Principal Steve Ahle, who has relished watching the event gain in momentum and popularity (not to mention school rivalry!) each year since its inception in 2008.

Colorful signs, fast breaks, supportive coaches, cheering fans, dynamic dunks and exciting runs up and down the Poinsettia basketball courts dominate the day, which this year takes place on March 25th beginning at 10 am. Athleticism and enthusiasm are partners at this ball, which brings families from around the District together for a day of teamwork, good fun and great sportsmanship.

The kids serve as inspiring role models, for their peers and for adults. They cheer for their teams and, whether they win or lose, they are gracious to their rivals. It’s a lesson the rest of the world could well learn from them. Last year before the tournament started, one player confided, “Personally, I REALLY want to win. But in the end it doesn’t matter. It’s just a game.”

I encourage you to attend our fourth annual March Madness tourney. No matter who captures the boys’ and girls’ trophies, the real winners are everyone who participates.

Let the games begin!

Stay abreast of District doings and get up-to-the-minute Superintendent updates at www.twitter.com/SuptRoach.

Carlsbad High School Modernization

2011-03-25T14:31:00.001-07:00

Students Speaking Out

2011-03-17T14:15:00.000-07:00

Students Speaking Out provides students with a way to anonymously report crime and dangerous activities taking place in San Diego County schools. Students can contact Students Speaking Out by phone, text, or web tip. We will pass that information on to authorities directly.

Message from the Superintendent February 2011

2011-02-14T15:35:00.000-08:00

A Monthly Update from John A. Roach, Ed.D., to Families in our World-Class District

February 2011: Two High Schools Will Enhance Opportunities for All Students
When Carlsbad voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition P in 2006, they resoundingly said “Yes!” to building an additional high school. With equal vigor, they also affirmed the need to renovate venerable Carlsbad High School.

Today, we are at a significant crossroads. The modernization of Carlsbad High will be completed soon. The new high school is under construction and will welcome its initial freshman and sophomore classes in Fall 2013. A process is under way to determine key parameters of that school; in fact, of both schools.

Soon after the 2006 election, a 35-member Task Force comprised of parents, teachers, counselors, support staff and administrators conducted research and generated recommendations regarding the new school’s vision, purpose and curriculum focus. Currently under review as well is the decision about whether the two high schools will accept students based on choice or boundaries.

The Task Force’s over-arching belief, which is shared and supported by our Board of Trustees, is: “The combination of state-of-the-art facilities for both campuses, the tradition of excellent teaching and complementary, yet distinct program offerings at each of the high schools will provide a range of choices for students throughout Carlsbad.”

Have You Entered the “Name Our New High School” Contest?
You still have time to submit a name for the school before the deadline of 3 pm on March 4, 2011. Contest guidelines and forms are available online at
http://www.carlsbadusd.k12.ca.us/newhighschool.html as well as in print at the District Office and school sites.

We look forward to receiving your entry and we very much look forward to having two world-class high schools to serve our world-class Carlsbad community.

Stay abreast of District doings and get up-to-the-minute Superintendent updates at www.twitter.com/SuptRoach.