The Scotts Valley School Bell – Gratitude & Advancement

June 2019
Summer is finally here! Earlier this month, many a student was excited to finish their school year. Particularly excited were the 5th graders, 8th graders, and high school seniors who advanced to the next chapter in their lives – either to a new school, or into the wider world.
One of my favorite events of the year is the Senior Awards Night at Scotts Valley High. It’s a great night to hear about the accomplishments of our seniors and see where they are headed next. This class of 2019 lived up to the reputation of past years, with over 96% headed to a college or university, whether it be Cabrillo Community College, another California school, or to a public or private university further afield. On their way, they earned over $1 million in scholarships to help make their dreams come true. These students put in the hard work to take these next big steps, enabled by the excellent instruction of our teachers, and the encouragement and support of school and district staff. All of these promotions and graduation are only possible with your support – thank you!
Even though the students were all done by June 7th, there was much left to be done before the district team could also celebrate summer. At the last Board meeting of the school year, we were able to approve the budget for the next three years, approve the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP), and approve the strategic plan for the upcoming ‘19/’20 school year. I encourage you to read for yourself the goals we’ve set for next year at www.scottsvalleyusd.org/stratplans. This year’s budget was the best we have seen in years, providing much-needed raises for our teachers and District team after three years without them. This community stepped up to pass Measure A last November, and this is the result. Thank you again!
At this same Board meeting we were happy to receive the final report from the Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee for Measure A (2014), which provided the funding to rebuild your Scotts Valley Middle School. Rocco Chappie, the chair of this committee, delivered the final report and commented that “the voters were delivered the promise of Measure A… an update to the Middle School that was met and exceeded.” The 11 members of this committee provided a valuable civic service – public oversight that the funds from Measure A were spent wisely. Thanks to the committee for their service, and to the community for passing the first Measure A to rebuild the Middle School.
With the end of the school year, this column will also take a summer break. I’ll be back in September to keep you apprised of your school district’s activities.
Please email me with any feedback or ideas about this column at rs*****@sc*************.org. I hope everyone has a fun and restful summer!