ESD Superintendent Update
Some thoughts for the starting school year
Hello Families,
As we enter the second month of school, we see our students have successfully made the transition from summer to the classroom. During our school site visits, I have enjoyed seeing students actively engaged in their learning, collaboratively working together, and building a positive school community. I appreciate the parent volunteers on campus supporting students and school programs and the families joining together for community-building family nights. While in the classroom, I see evidence of our teachers building positive learning environments, assessing student needs, accelerating math achievement, and promoting literacy development.
We have some upcoming activities over the next few months. Please add these dates to your calendar!
September 18
Monday Minimum Day for all schools. All students and staff will participate in a districtwide disaster drill to review and practice our protocols for student safety.September 25-29
Family Conference Week for families to partner with their child's teacher to learn more about their child's education and consider areas of strength and actions for success.
October 9
Monday Non-Student Day
October 14
Star Wars Reads Day library fundraiser on Saturday, October 14 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Barnes & Noble, Rancho Cucamonga.
Together, let’s make the most of the opportunities ahead.
Charlayne Sprague
Superintendent
On Monday, September 18, the district will conduct a comprehensive safety drill and training exercise at all seventeen schools and the District Education Center. The simulated disaster scenario provides staff and students a valuable opportunity to promote our district’s earthquake and fire preparedness. During the drill, each school will have a unique emergency scenario. School leaders will oversee the process of relocating students to secure areas, organizing search and rescue operations, setting up first aid stations, and relaying updates on school conditions to the district operations center.
If possible, please avoid visiting school offices in the morning on Monday, September 18. If your child needs to be picked up at that time, please plan on adding a few extra minutes to your trip.
Every year from September 15 to October 15, we honor National Hispanic Heritage Month. This vibrant celebration recognizes the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens with roots in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. With a rich tapestry of traditions, stories, and achievements, Hispanic Americans have greatly influenced our nation's narrative. From arts to sciences, politics to business, their impact is felt across all sectors. This month, let's celebrate the diversity and strength that Hispanic culture brings to America's tapestry.
Etiwanda's four intermediate schools recently came together to host a Family Engagement Night focused on a crucial topic - "The Truth About Fentanyl." This event served as a platform for a candid and unfiltered discussion about the alarming rise in fentanyl usage within our community. The presentation was conducted by the San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office, shedding light on the concerning statistics and sharing heart-wrenching stories from parents who have been directly affected.
Towards the end of this presentation, Deputy District Attorney Henry Rosas encouraged every participant to copy the link to the presentation and pass it on to another family member or loved one who may not have been able to attend. Today, I am sharing this vital information with you, in the hopes that together, we can create awareness and protect our children from the dangers of fentanyl.
During the 2023-24 school year, construction will continue on the District Operations Center located across the street from the District Education Center on East Avenue just north of Banyan St.
The Operations Center will warehouse the District's Facilities & Operations Department, Transportation Department, and Child Nutrition Services, and move them from the Etiwanda Intermediate School campus. This move will pave the way for the planned Measure I improvements to the Etiwanda Intermediate School campus beginning summer 2024.
